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kmomof4 · 4 months

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A Christmas Surprise: Ch. 4

It's the 🎶final chapter🎶 (yes, I know I'm really dating myself with those notes, but I don't care. I just have to...) and all the happy endings are here!!! Thank you all so much for reading and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Summary: Elsa Jones enlists her friend Emma Swan to come up with a scheme to surprise her niece Alice Jones when her Papa, Killian, returns from deployment just in time for Christmas.

From the beginning on ao3/ Current ch

Rating G Total Christmas fluff ahead!

Words: Almost 6200 of 18,5K

Tagging the usuals. Please let me know if you'd like to be added or removed.

@jrob64 @teamhook @winterbaby89 @hollyethecurious @artistic-writer @xarandomdreamx @undercaffinatednightmare @the-darkdragonfly @stahlop @superchocovian @pirateprincessofpizza @tiganasummertree @anmylica @cosette141 @motherkatereloyshipper @zaharadessert @jonesfandomfanatic @ultraluckycatnd @jennjenn615 @allons-y-to-hogwarts-713 @kymbersmith-90 @booksteaandtoomuchtv @wistfulcynic @mie779 @snowbellewells @lfh1226-linda @aprilqueen84 @whimsicallyenchantedrose @pirateherokillian @elfiola @ilovemesomekillianjones @justanother-unluckysoul@poptart-cat-78 @myfearless-love @goforlaunchcee @searchingwardrobes @gingerpolyglot @gingerchangeling @djlbg @cocohook38 @cs-rylie @thisonesatellite @donteattheappleshook @deckerstarblanche @veryverynotgoodwrites @wefoundloveunderthelight @fleurdepetite @alexa-fangirl-forever @bluewildcatfanatic @qualitycoffeethings

Under the cut, unless Tumblr ate it.

The month had flown by, and Killian was due to report back in Boston in less than a week. He wasn’t anywhere near ready to say goodbye to Alice and Emma, even if it was only during the work week. Since Alice was in the middle of the school year in a school she loved, Killian didn’t see the need to bring her to Boston with him when he was planning on being in Storybrooke every weekend anyway. There was no way he was going to stay away from Emma from the first of February to mid April, when he’d finally be separating from the US Navy.

While January had been a desperately needed respite from his normal duties in the Navy, that didn’t mean he’d been idle. He’d spent every minute he could with Emma, falling more and more in love with her as he did, in between sitting for his licensure exam that he blew out of the water, and pursuing the job opportunity in Storybrooke that looked better and better every day. Nemo had said, even before he’d submitted his résumé, that he didn’t foresee any problems bringing him on, but they were now nearly to the target date Nemo had mentioned for having an offer in hand, if he were to be hired.

Killian was making himself an afternoon snack when his phone buzzed in his pocket.

“Hello?”

“Killian?”

Killian’s heart rate sped up when Nemo spoke on the other end of the line.

“Yes, sir,” he greeted the man that he hoped would be his boss in a few months.

Nemo chuckled and Killian’s hope soared.

“Well, there’s no real reason to beat around the bush,” the older man said. “The job is yours if you want it.”

Killian held the phone away from his mouth for a moment as he silently crowed at the ceiling and raised his fist in the air, before drawing it sharply back down in a ‘YESSSS’ gesture.

“I definitely do, Sir.” There was no need to talk to anyone about the decision. He knew he had Liam and Elsa’s full support to pursue and accept the offer when it came, and he’d had enough discussions with Alice to know that she desperately hoped he’d get the job as well. And Emma’s words on New Year’s Eve were the final green light he needed to accept the proposal.

“Excellent,” Nemo said. “You’ll be leading the department. With your experience in the Navy, I can’t think of anyone better suited to do so.”

Killian was stunned, and had to snap his hanging jaw shut before speaking. “Th- Thank you, Sir,” he stammered. “I’m honored.”

“When is your retirement date? I have it here somewhere…” Killian could hear papers rustling over the line and chuckled.

“April 10th is my last day of duty and the ceremony is on the 11th.”

“Very good. How about you start the following Monday, the 16th?” he asked. “That’ll give you a few days of downtime with your family, and to decompress a bit before we throw you in the deep end.” They both laughed at Nemo’s choice of words.

“Good thing I’m in the Navy, then,” Killian quipped. “I’m used to swimming in deep water.” Nemo laughed good naturedly.

“Did you have any other questions for me that we haven’t already addressed? The official offer will be emailed to you in a few minutes. Just for you to have for your records. Can you come in on Monday to get your paperwork squared away and meet a few folks?”

“Yes, I can, Sir,” he replied. “And I don’t have any questions. The offer is very generous, and I’m excited to be leading the team.”

“It’ll be good to have you, Killian. Come in Monday anytime after ten.”

“I will do that, Sir. Thank you.”

Killian hung up his phone and immediately checked his email. There it was. The employment offer that was going to make all his dreams come true. Killian could have leapt with joy.

After another fist pump, Killian ran for the stairs to go tell Liam and Elsa. He would have preferred to share the news with Alice and Emma first, but Alice was at dance class for a little while longer and Emma was at her house. There was no way he’d be able to contain his excitement until he could tell them, so he had to go with who was readily available. Liam had come home early for some reason and had immediately gone upstairs without so much as saying hello when Killian passed him on his way to the kitchen.

He came to a stop outside their bedroom to see Elsa sitting on the end of the bed, her head in her hands, Liam sitting next to her rubbing circles into her back. His excited words died on his lips completely.

Liam looked up at him. His eyes were slightly glazed, and Killian wondered if he really saw him standing there. He looked completely shell shocked, and Elsa’s posture was no better. She rubbed both of her temples, and Killian could just hear low mutterings coming from her mouth.

“Hey, guys,” he said, coming in slowly. “What’s wrong?”

Elsa raised her head, and threw it back laughing. It had a manic quality to it that made Killian even more nervous.

“Your brother,” she began, pointing at Liam who still sat on the bed, his hand on her back.

“M-, ME?!” Liam sputtered.

“Yes, you!”

“Last I checked, babe, it takes two to tango.”

Killian’s confusion suddenly cleared and he moved to the bathroom to see a little white stick sitting on the vanity. PREGNANT showed clearly in the tiny window. Killian had to press his lips together hard to keep from laughing. It may have been a lot of years since he’d had to concern himself with women’s cycles, but it wasn’t rocket science to figure out that his brother and sister-in-law had made fireworks of their own on New Year’s, and this was the result.

“Congratulations,” Killian said, coming back in the room, smirk planted firmly on his face. He could understand their shock and surprise. Elsa was closing in on forty, and Liam was well past that milemarker. Plus, the twins were thirteen years old, and would be fourteen before their new sibling made their appearance. They obviously needed some time to themselves to come to terms with the hard left turn their lives had just taken. But he still wanted to share his own news with them. “I have some good news of my own, if you’re ready to hear it.”

That got both their attentions. Their countenances cleared and a wide smile broke on Elsa’s face.

“Did you hear from Nemo?” Liam asked.

“I did.”

Elsa let out a loud whoop and launched herself at him. But before she reached him, her hand flew to her mouth and she ran for the bathroom instead. He could hear her retching as he followed his brother who’d rushed after her. Killian stood in the doorway to see Liam hovering, and Elsa waving him away.

“This is all your fault,” she said in between heaves, a petulant whine in her voice. “Get away from me.” She disappeared behind the wall separating the toilet from the rest of the bathroom again; whatever she’d eaten earlier making another appearance. “Congratulations, Killian,” she wheezed when she was done. She made it to her feet, slapping Liam’s hand away as he tried to help her up. “Did you tell us first?” she asked. “It’s almost time to go pick up Alice! She’ll be ecstatic!” Killian turned to go, when Elsa spoke again. “Don’t say anything to the kids about this yet.” She waved her hand around in an aimless gesture. “We’ll make an announcement… sometime. Soon.”

“Just the kids?” Killian asked.

“Ohhhh,” Elsa said, realization coming over her. “Yeah, go ahead. You can tell Emma.”

Killian smiled at them both and all but ran from the room.

~*~*~

Killian grinned widely when Alice came out of dance class. As soon as she was in her booster in the back seat with her seatbelt on, Killian turned to her.

“So, you want to stay in Storybrooke, Starfish?”

Alice’s eyes got as big as saucers. “Did you get the job at Uncle Liam’s, Papa?”

“I did,” he replied. Alice’s shout was loud enough to burst his ear drums. “He called a little bit before I came to get you. I’ll start on April 16th.”

Alice unbuckled her seatbelt and leaned across the front seat to hug him as tightly as she could in the awkward position.

“I’m so excited, Papa!” she exclaimed. “So what does that mean? What’s going to happen?”

“Just like what we’ve talked about, Starfish,” he reminded her. “I’ll be heading back to Boston on Wednesday night after you go to bed. I’ll be there Thursday and Friday before coming back Friday night to spend the weekend with all of you. Then I’ll be going back to Boston again Sunday night for the whole week, and I’ll be here on the weekends. I’ll do that every week until I retire on April 11th. You’ll be staying here while I’m there, living with Uncle Liam and Aunt Elsa and your cousins, going to school and dance and all the things you normally do.”

“And after you retire, we’ll still live with Uncle Liam and Aunt Elsa?” she asked.

Killian chuckled. “Oh, no. We’ll move into our own home after I retire.” Killian thought about the house Liam had told him about. It was still on the market, but Killian hadn’t wanted to really look at it until he had the offer in hand. And now that he did, he could begin seriously looking for a home that would accommodate him and Alice and perhaps a couple of others, as well. Killian couldn’t keep the smile off his face if he tried.

“Yayyyy!!!” Alice shouted again, bouncing in her seat.

“Now I want to go see Emma and tell her,” Killian said. “Do you want me to take you home or do you want to come with me?”

Alice bounced in her seat again. “Come with! Come with!”

Killian chuckled and turned the car on. “Alright then. Let’s go.”

No sooner had Killian brought the car to a stop in Emma’s driveway than Alice was out like a shot, shouting as she ran for the front door.

“Miss Swan! Henry! Papa got the job! We’re staying in Storybrooke!”

Killian knew his smile was ridiculously wide with how much his cheeks were hurting, but he couldn’t begrudge his daughter being the one to break the news. He caught up to her as she banged on the door, opened moments later by Henry, followed closely by Emma.

“What?” asked Henry, his own smile taking over his face.

“Papa got the job!” Alice repeated. “We’re staying in Storybrooke!”

Emma’s face looked like the sun coming out from behind the clouds after a storm. She ran for him, and he caught her in his arms, spinning her around as she hugged him tightly and showered kisses all over his face.

Once he put Emma down, Henry and Alice scurried off to his room to play and Emma showed Killian into the living room.

“I’m so happy for you, Killian,” Emma said, sitting down next to him and holding his hand tightly.

“Me, too,” he agreed. “It’s a relief to be sure.” Killian looked her full in the face. “And now that I have the offer in hand, I can start moving forward into this next phase of my life.” He paused and scratched at the spot behind his ear, his eyes skittering away from hers for a moment. He took a deep breath, and met her gaze again, his eyes full of love and hope. “A phase that I hope I’ll have a companion for.”

Emma gasped. They had of course talked about the job and the opportunity it would present for him and Alice, but they’d been careful to steer away from what it might mean for them. But now that the job was certain…

“Calm down, Swan. I’m not proposing.” Emma hoped she kept the surprise and slight disappointment off of her face, but wasn’t sure she succeeded when he winked at her. Or attempted to, anyway. “You’ll know when I do,” he assured her. Emma giggled. “Anyway,” he continued, “I’ll need to start looking for a house for myself and Alice to move into once I’m here permanently. And I was hoping you might join me in that search. To help me find a house for all of us. Where we can be a family.” He paused again, giving her a moment to absorb everything he’d already shared.

“I love you, Emma.”

A gasping sob escaped her and she grabbed him around the neck and pulled him to her until their lips joined in a joyful expression of love, both felt and reciprocated. When air became necessary, she pulled back.

“I love you, too, Killian.”

Killian surged forward and captured her lips with his own, pushing her back on the sofa until she was reclined and every part of her body was fully lined up to his. The passionate kiss they shared was making his head spin, but he knew they couldn’t go any further, not with their children in the next room. Very reluctantly, he pulled back.

“We have to stop, Swan,” he said, “As much as I don’t want to.”

“I know,” she agreed, her own reluctance on full display.

Killian rolled off of her, tucking himself between her and the back of the sofa. “I just had a thought. What would you think about coming down to Boston the Thursday after Valentine's Day? We could have a nice dinner without fighting all the Valentines’ crowds and you could spend the night?” It was a question, and she knew exactly what he was asking. She had to admit, it was something she’d definitely thought about and he obviously had, too.

“I think that sounds like a fine idea, Captain.” She lifted up slightly and kissed him.

“Then I could take Friday off and we could do some touristy things around town before coming home a bit earlier than I normally would.” Emma smiled in agreement.

“Oh, I forgot to tell you.”

“What?”

“You remember what I walked in on on New Year’s?”

Emma’s eyebrows shot up, her cheeks flushing with secondhand embarrassment. “Uh huh.”

“Well, Elsa’s pregnant.”

Emma’s jaw dropped and her eyes widened so much that Killian couldn’t hold back his chuckle.

“Are you kidding me?” She was stunned and couldn’t pretend otherwise.

“Nope,” Killian assured her. “She found out this afternoon. She must have called Liam to come home early. When I came up to tell them about the job, she was…” Killian trailed away, searching for the words. “A bit hysterical? Extremely annoyed? Both? Yes.” He nodded decisively. “Both is good.”

A snort laugh burst out of Emma. “Bless her so much.”

“She said I could tell you, but she doesn’t want to say anything to the kids, just yet.”

“Oh, don’t worry,” Emma said, pursing her lips and miming locking them and throwing away the key. “My lips are sealed.”

Killian chuckled. “I can think of another way to keep those lips busy,” he said, eyebrows waggling.

Emma grinned at him. “A method I highly approve of,” she said, before drawing him down into another kiss, celebrating all the news of the day.

~*~*~

The next day was Saturday, and Emma and Elsa were finally enjoying their joint spa day. After the news she’d received the day before, Elsa was especially ready and thankful for it.

Once the ladies were gone, Liam joined Killian in the kitchen where he was just finishing his coffee.

“You ready?”

Killian took his last swallow and got up to put the mug in the sink. “Yep. Let’s go.”

When he had come back home yesterday after giving Emma the news, Killian asked Liam if they could go look at the house he had told him about while the ladies were occupied Saturday morning. Liam’s grin was blinding as he made all the arrangements.

Now they were pulling up in front of a beautiful Nantucket style three story home. It was sky blue with a huge wraparound front porch and a three story turret anchoring the front facade.

Killian’s jaw hung open slightly as Liam opened the gate of the white picket fence on the edge of the sidewalk and moved toward the steps leading up to the front porch. He couldn’t take his eyes off of it as he followed Liam, almost in a daze.

Once inside, Liam took him through the house, from the basement to the finished third story that would be ideal for an office or a game room when the kids were a little older. Or, and a small smile turned up his lips at the thought, perhaps another bedroom, if needed. But as it was, the house was beautiful, inside and out, with all the room they needed for a growing family. The price was a little higher than he wanted, but it had been on the market, sitting empty, since autumn, so Killian was hopeful the sellers would be willing to come down a bit in order to get it off their hands.

Killian’s excitement was sending his heart rate into overdrive. This house was perfect in every way, but he needed to get Emma’s input as well. If she was going to be a part of his life going forward and a part of his family in the not-too-distant future, she needed to be on board with whatever home he bought. The ladies would be done with their pampering about one o’clock; maybe he could bring her over afterward to have a look at it.

“Could I bring Emma back this afternoon when they’re done to have a look?” Killian asked his brother. “I love it. It’s perfect. But I can’t in good conscience make an offer on a place that I would hope will be a home for all of us without getting her opinion first.”

“I completely understand, Brother. And I agree,” Liam said. “Let me let the seller’s agent know, and I’ll give you the key.”

Killian nodded and turned around in a full circle looking at the main floor of the house. He imagined moving into this beautiful home- Emma, Alice, and Henry with him- filling it with love and laughter for a lifetime.

~*~*~

A few hours later, he parked his own car in front of the house and looked at Emma in the passenger seat. Her face was very much like his when he’d seen it for the first time earlier. Killian couldn’t keep the grin off his face if he tried.

“What do you think?”

“It… it’s gorgeous,” she breathed. “Have you…?”

“Swan! No!” he exclaimed, completely shocked she would even ask him that. “I’d never make that kind of decision or make a purchase like this without talking to you first.” He took her hands in his and looked her right in the eyes. “Not if we’re going to have a future together.”

Emma’s heart completely melted. She already knew she loved him, but this was just another confirmation that her heart and soul had found a haven in his. She reached up and pulled him to her in a kiss that he eagerly reciprocated and that quickly turned heated.

“Come on,” he said, pulling away some moments later. “Let me show you the inside.”

Emma followed Killian through the gate and up the front steps. It was the most beautiful house she’d ever seen, the wraparound porch a feature that she’d always wanted in a home. When she’d bought the house she lived in now, her budget didn’t come anywhere close to affording a house with a porch like that. But, she had to try to keep her excitement in check. Killian obviously wanted her honest opinion on the house that he hoped would be a home for all of them, and she couldn’t let her immediate affection for the exterior drive that opinion. The house would have to meet certain thresholds in order to be something they could all live in for many years to come.

And as Killian took her through the house, it became quite obvious that it met every single one of those thresholds. A wide open floor plan and tall ceilings weren’t necessary, but were very welcome additions to the generous square footage, ample storage, kitchen and bath upgrades that thrilled Emma to no end, large bedrooms and even enough room for any future children they might have.

Emma looked at Killian, a soft smile on her face as she imagined moving into this beautiful home with Killian, Henry, and Alice by her side. It was everything she could have hoped and dreamed of.

“So what do you think, Swan?” Killian asked, love and hope in his eyes.

“I love it, Killian,” she said sincerely. She stepped toward him and took his hands in hers, her gaze meeting his. “I can see us, all of us, living here for many, many years. Many happy years.”

The relieved grin on Killian’s face, made her own smile bloom before she drew him into another kiss. When they separated, Killian wrapped his arms around her as they both turned and looked out the back window to the large backyard where the kids would no doubt spend many hours playing.

“I didn’t even ask,” Emma began. “What are they asking for this place?”

“It’s a little more than I can afford,” Killian said, “but it’s been sitting empty for four months, so I’m hoping they’ll be a little more motivated to come down on their asking price.”

“With my income, you could probably afford it,” she suggested.

“Yes, but we’re not married yet, and that will create all kinds of complications that we really don’t need to deal with right now,” he explained, kissing her on the tip of her nose.

“Hmmm, yes, that’s true,” she agreed, smiling at the tender gesture.

“I’ll talk to Liam, make them an offer, and see what they say,” he continued. “Wouldn’t it be great if we could have this squared away before I go back to Boston?” The hope in his eyes made her smile and matched the joy in her own.

“Yes, it really would.”

~*~*~

Retirement day had finally arrived. His last two months, one week, and two days of duty were over and all that was left now was the ceremony that would signify his official separation from the United States Navy. He couldn’t believe how quickly the time had gone. Living it day to day, he didn’t think this day would ever get here, but looking back, the time really had flown by.

The offer he’d given Liam for the house back at the end of January had been eagerly accepted by the sellers, even at significantly below their asking price. His offer wasn’t unfair, but he’d fully expected them to counter, and when they didn’t, he was stunned. They’d closed on the house on Saturday just a couple of weeks ago, to accommodate Killian’s work schedule, and he and Emma had been busy both weekends since, moving boxes and some furniture into it, so they’d be able to fully move in tomorrow. The movers would be collecting the rest of his and Alice’s furniture in Boston tomorrow and bringing it all to Storybrooke. He hoped to be fully moved in and unpacked before he started at Storybrooke Real Estate on Monday.

After Emma visited him in Boston in February, they figured it was time for him to meet her parents. Mary Margaret Swan had immediately welcomed him into their family with open arms. It took just a little longer to win David over, but now the bromance between him and David flourished after Killian assured him of the honor of his intentions.

He peeked through the curtain to see all his loved ones arriving en masse and making their way to the front of the room. As the family members of the retiree, they had reserved seating. Seeing Emma there surrounded by his family and hers, sudden inspiration hit him. There was only one thing missing that would make this day truly perfect. When she spotted him looking at her through the curtain, he signaled her to join him. She turned to her mother for a moment and then started toward the podium and backdrop.

Emma came around the edge of the curtain where Killian waited for her to join him before gathering her into his arms and planting a kiss on her lips that wasn’t nearly enough, but would have to be, given their present location.

“Emma,” he said, sinking down on one knee, “I know you probably didn’t expect this today, but when I saw you come into the room, all I could think of was that I wanted you by my side today as my fiancée, not my girlfriend.” He pulled a small, black velvet box out of his dress blues pocket. Emma gasped, her hands flying to her mouth. “These last four months since we met have been the best of my life. I love you more than words can express, more than I ever believed possible. Would you make me the happiest man alive and consent to be my wife?”

Emma’s eyes were filled with tears and she could barely see straight to nod and hold her hand out for him to put the beautiful round diamond solitaire on her finger. She knelt in front of him, taking his face in her hands. The tears escaped her eyelids and rolled down her cheeks as she pulled him to her and kissed him with all the love in her heart.

When they pulled back, she touched her forehead to his, tears still streaking down her face.

“I love you, Killian,” she whispered. “And yes, I want nothing more than to be by your side today as your fiancée.” They were both quiet for a moment, just enjoying the love between them. “I should probably go back out there. They’ll be wondering what’s going on.”

Killian chuckled. “Don’t say anything. Let’s see if anyone notices. If they don’t, we’ll announce it at the reception.”

Emma smiled her agreement. They got to their feet, and Emma moved around the curtain to go back to her seat. Killian peeked through the drape again and saw her sit down on the front row, Elsa on one side of her, Mary Margaret on the other. Killian grinned and pulled back from the drape only to hear twin squeals from the other side of the curtain. He moved back, a wide grin spreading on his face as he saw his fiancée showing off her ring to her best friend and mother.

It was going to be quite a party this afternoon, and he couldn’t wait.

~*~*~

Emma sat before the vanity on her wedding day, watching as her mother gathered her hair into an elegant bun at the nape of her neck and tucked the comb holding her veil underneath.

Everything was ready for her to join her life with the love of her life, Killian Jones.

She rose from her stool and turned to face her mother, best friend, and daughter.

“Oh, Mama,” Alice breathed. “You look so beautiful.”

Emma smiled at the child, her heart swelling with love for her. Once school let out last May, Emma and Killian had both initiated adoption proceedings for Alice and Henry, with Emma’s adoption of Alice going through in August and Killian’s adoption of Henry finalizing just last month due to residency requirements.

“Thank you, baby,” Emma said, opening her arms for her hug. She felt the tears fill her eyes as she looked at her mom and Elsa. Elsa’s own eyes glistened with tears as well. She was radiant in the ice blue gown she wore. You couldn’t even tell that she’d given birth three months ago to a daughter, Lila Emily Rose.

When they first talked about dates for the wedding, Killian had suggested August, thinking that would be plenty of time for the planning, but Elsa, Mary Margaret, and Emma herself had loudly protested that it wasn’t nearly enough time. Plus there was the fact that Elsa didn’t want to be walking down the aisle as Matron of Honor nine months pregnant. And so December 15th was chosen, one year to the day since their meeting.

“You look so beautiful, too.” She stepped back, holding Alice’s hands, then releasing one as Alice spun a perfect pirouette under her arm, the skirt of her dress, a smaller version of Elsa’s, flaring out before settling back around her ankles.

“Your father is gonna cry,” Mary Margaret said, completing the teary eyed trio. “We’re so happy this day has finally come. You’re marrying Killian, joining together to create a new family.” Mary Margaret sniffed, and Elsa handed her a handkerchief.

“One year ago today, I saw something that I’d despaired of ever seeing- my brother-in-law, Killian Jones, noticing a woman,” Elsa said, her smile nostalgic as she remembered Emma and Killian’s first meeting. “He’d been alone for six years, but he was smitten with you from that very first moment, and my heart rejoiced. And now here you are, a year later, about to join your lives together, forever.” Mary Margaret handed the handkerchief back to Elsa when a tear escaped and ran down her face. Emma chuckled and then wiped away her own tears.

Outside the room, they could hear the organ beginning to play Sheep May Safely Graze, the last piece before Mary Margaret was to be seated. They moved from the Bride’s Room to the vestibule, where Emma’s dad, Liam, and Henry waited for them.

Elsa and her mother took their places on either side of Liam, and Alice took Henry’s arm, making Emma’s eyes fill with tears yet again. Henry was growing up much too fast. Holding his arm out to his best friend and now sister, just like a little gentleman, made her realize just how quickly time passed. She shouldn’t be able to see glimpses of the man he would one day become, not yet. She looked at her loved ones, meeting their eyes in turn, accepting the love and joy they all had for her on this special day. Having them all here on the happiest day of her life- loving and supporting her, loving and supporting them- made the day perfect. In every way.

“I’ve waited for this day for years,” David whispered. “In the sense that I hoped you’d one day find someone to love. Someone to love you and Henry the way you deserve. Someone to walk beside you through all the ups and downs of life. Killian is everything a father could want for his daughter and I cannot be happier.” The smile on his face was happy and sad at the same time, and Emma could no longer hold back her tears. She moved toward him, hugging him tightly, his hand coming up to cradle the back of her head.

“Thank you, Daddy,” she whispered. “I love you.”

“I love you, too, sweetheart.”

Emma pulled back and took a deep breath, accepting the now ruined handkerchief from Elsa to dab at her own eyes. Pachebel’s Canon in D was beginning, and Liam led Mary Margaret from the vestibule into the sanctuary. She carried two tall taper candles that she’d place on either side of the Unity candle Emma and Killian would light toward the end of the ceremony. In the absence of Killian’s own mother, he’d asked her if she would step in and fill the role.

Only a few minutes later, Liam and Elsa walked down the aisle, followed by Henry and Alice.

Emma felt David turn toward her, so she raised her eyes to meet his. Tears glistened in them and his smile trembled slightly at the corners.

“This is the… third best day of my life,” he said. “First was marrying your mother. Second was the day of your birth. And now today.”

Emma had nothing to say, so she simply rose up on her tiptoes and kissed him on the cheek.

“Are you ready to give me away, Daddy?”

David nodded. “Let's go.”

The doors to the sanctuary opened as the opening bars of the Trumpet Voluntary began to play. She and David entered, and her eyes immediately landed on Killian. He wore his Navy Captain dress blue uniform, and Emma caught her breath at how handsome he was.

She couldn’t take her eyes off of him as they continued moving forward. He beamed as he watched her, his smile lighting up his eyes and his entire face with profound love and unspeakable joy.

When they reached Killian and Liam, the four of them faced the vicar.

“Welcome everyone, to the wedding of Emma Swan and Killian Jones,” he began, addressing the small congregation. He turned his eyes upon David. “Who gives this woman in marriage?”

“Her mother and I do,” David answered. He turned to Emma and placed a tender kiss on her cheek before turning to Killian and placing Emma’s hand in his. With a nod and smile of approval and affection, David turned and took his place next to Mary Margaret to watch the rest of the ceremony.

Emma, Killian, Elsa, and Liam followed the vicar up the steps to the stage before he turned to them and began the ceremony.

Killian couldn’t take his eyes off of his bride. She was the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen, period, but today, she was literally breathtaking. She wore a simple gown in a slimline style with a sleeveless deep v-neck wrapped bodice with a satin skirt. Her hair was pulled back into a soft bun, her veil trailing down from the bun almost to the floor. He’d never beheld a more exquisite sight. He missed what all the vicar was saying, simply soaking in the vision that was his almost wife, until he announced it was time for the vows.

“Emma Swan,” he breathed. “I think I may have fallen in love with you on the very day we met. I knew that day my life was about to change for the better, and that sentiment has been proven correct many, many times over. You’ve made my life complete, Emma. I can’t imagine loving you more than I do right now, although I know I will as we walk through life together, because my love for you has grown every single day already. This day do I pledge thee my troth, to share everything in life, the good and the bad. No matter what the future holds, I want you to be certain that I will always, always be by your side. I love you, Emma.”

A hiccupping sob escaped Emma’s lips as she prepared to share her own vows.

“Killian, the day I met you, I had a feeling that there were many wonderful things to come. To look forward to, having you in my life. And it was hardly any time at all before I knew that I loved you and wanted to spend my life with you. Killian, you are the best man I know and I love you deeply. Truly. This day, in the sight of God and our dearly loved friends and family, I promise to love you. To honor you, respect you, cherish you. Walking through life together, the ups and the downs, will be a great adventure with you by my side. Until death do us part.”

Killian swallowed heavily. “And I promise to love, honor, respect, and cherish you, Emma, until death do us part.”

Once the vows were spoken, they exchanged rings, solid white gold bands, the vicar speaking a blessing over the rings. As they moved to light the Unity candle, the vicar read from the Book of Ruth, the passage speaking of never leaving the other, as long as they both shall live.

They returned to the vicar at the foot of the stage where he proudly proclaimed, “Killian, you may kiss your bride!”

Killian grinned, his eyebrows waggling as he took Emma in his arms and dipped her back before joining his lips to hers. The congregation around them erupted into shouts and cheers, but they were oblivious to all of it, simply soaking in the love they had for one another as their lips moved together.

Long moments later, he finally raised them back up and they turned toward all their loved ones as the vicar announced them.

“Presenting Captain and Mrs. Killian Jones!”

The congregation again erupted in cheers as Emma and Killian proceeded back down the aisle, followed by Liam and Elsa, then Henry and Alice.

And they all lived happily ever after.

The End

~*~*~

Thank you for reading and sharing! I'd love to know what you think! Merry Christmas!!!

#a christmas surprise #krystal writes #art by krystal #christmas fluff

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lassluna · 5 years

Text

Let the Stars Remind You (10/?)

AN: Sorry for the delay, real life literally has been killing me, hope you like the chapter. Things get...interesting from here on out.

Ao3 FFN

It’s sunny that next day. The air is warm and there’s this lightness in his soul, all of their souls. He feels like a weight has been lifted from him.

Maybe it’s the fact that they had hot chocolate for breakfast. Maybe it’s the look of joy on Alice’s face at the wondrous sweet treat. Instead of a healthy breakfast.

“Not as good as marmalade.” Alice points out, he eyes are narrowed like she’s thinking critically. “But it’s still really good.” She confirms a small chocolate mustache on her face.

He smiles at her, taking a big sip, ensuring he has one to match.

“Someone’s in a good mood.” Emma states with a knowing smirk. He returns it.

“You know why Swan.” He replies evenly.

“I want to know why!” Alice exclaims from her seat.

Both the adults blush and look away.

He knows it’s because of Emma. He knows he feels whole for the first time. He wants to do something; he wants to continue this feeling, this bliss.

“Let’s go to the beach.” He announces with a grin.

It had been a while since they did that, it was something he reserved for special occasions or days when he knew Alice needed to get out of her own head. Today seems like a good day.

Killian knows he’s made the right decision when his girl squeals with glee. She practically leaps from her seat.

“Really Papa?” She asks, she’s practically jumping up and down. He nods.

“Go get into your swimsuit Starfish.” He tells her, “I’ll finish cleaning up and then I’ll get ready myself.” Alice doesn’t need to be told twice as she bolts up the stairs.

“Swimming huh?” Emma asks, standing to help him. He nods. “Have anything for me to wear?” She asks with a smirk.

Bloody hell.

“Well I don’t have a red bikini in my drawers love.” He says with a chuckle. “But perhaps you can find something to make do?”

She laughs. “I’m kidding. I definitely want to take a swim though.” She concludes. “This should be fun.” Emma says.

It doesn’t take long for their little group to get ready; Alice is dressed in her light blue one piece with a pink skirt and clouds painted on her suit. Emma seemed to have found an old shirt with the sleeves cut off and shorts that seemed to fit her better than some of the sweats. He himself in some swim trunks and a plain white T shirt.

“So how exactly does this work?” Emma asks, hand in his. Killian can see the healing scar on her leg but it appears not to be bothering her much.

“Swimming?” Killian replies. Emma rolls her eyes. She doesn’t have time to clarify as Alice is busy bouncing around grabbing Emma’s other hand and pulling her out the door, talking a mile a minute about all the things she loves about the beach. Emma laughs, letting go of him to follow Alice out the door.

It makes him smile to see how happy Alice is. Killian, carrying towels and a few snacks, trails behind the girls. He wonders if that’s how it’ll always be.

He wonders what Liam will think of Emma. Killian already knows Liam would be suspicious of her. He’s much more of a sceptic than Killian. He thinks Liam would warm up to her.

“Come on Papa!” Alice exclaims because how dare he take so long.

“Alright, alright Starfish.” He responds with a laugh. “I’m here.” He added, putting his things down.

He notices Alice bolt for the water’s edge and he races towards her, loving her scream when the cold water touches her bare feet. “It’s so cold Papa!” She says. He laughs.

“Of course it’s cold, it’s nearly winter.” He reminds her. “Don’t worry, it’ll get warmer soon.” He tells her. The sun was rising and it would heat the water to a more comfortable temperature.

The cold water doesn’t deter Alice from getting into the water, just up to her waist so she can swim and laugh and look for things under water. Alice loves the water and would spend every day in here if he’d let her. She’s a lot like him in that regard.

“I found another shell!” She says, coming up from under water, thrusting the pink shell in his face.

“That’s very pretty.” He agrees. He sees Alice glance back at the bank where Emma was sitting on a towel, watching them with a smile on her face.

“Why isn’t Emma coming in?” she asks.

“Well she’s not exactly in her swim suit.” He looks back at Emma. “I don’t know.

Especially considering she’d almost died on this beach.

Perhaps today had been a bad idea…

However, as if she could hear them, they see her slowly make their ways towards them in the water. He grins brightly at the smirk he sees on her face.

“This water is a lot colder than I remember it.” She says with a shiver.

“I think you were a little busy love.”

“Yeah, dying.”

“Emma! Emma!” Alice says, jumping and splashing. “Look what I found!” She says waving her shell in her hand. “Isn’t it pretty?”

Emma smiles and tells Alice how beautiful the shell is. But what Emma says next surprises him. “Did you know I’ve been to a beach where the sand is literally pink?” She asks. His daughter’s eyes widen.

“Really pink?” She exclaims. Pink is in fact her favorite color, at least this week. Emma nods.

“Just like the color of that shell. The sand is made up of bits of shell so when it gets wet it gets very rosy.” His daughter is completely consumed by the story and while Killian is glad his daughter is intrigued, he wonders what in the world Emma is thinking, telling Alice a story of a place they can never travel to?

“Do you think Uncle Liam has been there?” Alice asks. “Do you think when he finishes taking care of the bad people we can go there?” His daughter asks, smile bright and happy. He scratches behind his ear nervously.

“I guess you’re going to have to ask him.”

Liam was going to kill him.

After splashing around for a bit, Alice declares it’s time to make a sand castle. Emma is a good sport and tries to help, but Alice ends up giving her lessons on how to make the best one.

“It’s all about picking a partner that knows what he’s doing.” Alice informs her, glancing at him. He smirks.

“So you’re the resident expert here?” Emma asks with a smirk.

“I’m an expert in a lot of things Swan.”

They eventually build a large princess castle, one with a moat and a drawbridge made of a piece of wood. Alice declared them to be King and Queen of the castle as she wanted to stay the Princess.

They do some more swimming, and splashing. Alice collects at least a dozen more shells that she could absolutely not live without.

And it’s a good day.

“What does Alice mean when she says that Liam is going to bring her new toys?” Emma asks suddenly. It catches Killian off guard. They were taking a walk along the beach now, Alice walking faster ahead of them

“Liam, he’s my brother, he brings us things every few months to survive. How else do you think we can live completely isolated like this?” Emma just nods. “Usually I give him a list for next visit, new clothes for Alice, new books for both of us, food, supplies the usual.” He continues. “I can give him a list of things you’ll need as well.”

Emma nods, but again doesn’t say anything. He can tell she’s really thinking about something, there’s a small smile on her face but her eyes have a determined glint in them. She’s so lost in thought that she doesn’t notice a hole in the ground in front of them.

She topples, and his attempts at catching her just have him topple with her, her on top of him.

He can hear Alice’s giggles as he opens his eyes to Emma’s curtain of hair spill over him. She sits up first, pushing her hair out of his face. He spits out a few stray hairs and Emma just smiles, it makes her eyes shine.

“Thanks for breaking my fall.” She says simply, a smirk on her lips.

He wants to kiss it. He doesn’t.

Instead she kisses his nose, making his face burn hot. It’s silly really, especially after last night. They’d been far closer than this, done way more…intimate things.

“Emma…” He says trailing off.

I love you.

He doesn’t say them. He doesn’t dare. But she’s just smiling at him and for a minute he thinks…

“I think we should get up now.” Emma says simply, rolling off of him.

He thought maybe she would say it. He thought he saw it in her eyes. Maybe it was just wishful thinking.

“Aye, we seem to have attracted an audience.” He snickers, seeing Alice making faces at them. “Don’t make faces Starfish, or you’ll get stuck like that!” He calls.

She laughs. She’s making kissy faces at them.

“We should be getting back.” Emma notes, “After all it’s going to take a while for us all to get cleaned up in your tiny bathroom.”

Killian nods in agreement. Emma takes his hand, and he holds Alice in the other.

It’s a perfect day, the beginning of a series of perfect days.

Emma and Alice, what more did they need?

They do get cleaned up, and Killian makes dinner, a couple of cans of chicken soup. He typically doesn’t like the processed stuff, but it’s useful when he doesn’t feel like putting in the effort.

Alice sits in Emma’s lap and they’re making the list for Liam.

“What’s a poptart?” He hears Alice ask, he turns around slightly, catching Emma’s shocked look.

“Killian, you’ve never showed her pop tarts?” She asks like it’s the greatest sin imaginable. Killian shrugs.

“It’s just processed sugar and flower.” He reminds her.

“Amazing processed sugar and flower. It’s going on the list.” She declares. “Especially the brown sugar and cinnamon ones.” Killian rolls his eyes.

Night time comes sooner than any of them would have liked, but he sees Alice dozing cuddling into Emma as she reads their book, so he moves to carry her to bed when she stops him.

“Can Emma come tuck me in too?”

He stops short, looking back at her. A flash of panic crosses her face, but then she looks to him.

Is that ok? He tries to ask with a raised brow and a look.

If its ok with you. She seems to respond with a light smile.

Emma kisses her in the head, as he tucks her in and for a moment Killian thinks that they’re a family.

“Do you ever think long term about any of this?” Emma asks; she’s leaning against him, her head on his arm in his room. They were both tucked under the covers and pressed together.

“Sort of.” He replies. “My brother, he’s trying to find someway to keep those after us from hurting us, somewhere safe and protected. He’s prepared to fix the whole system if it means we can come home.” He replies. It sounds farfetched, a hopeless endeavor by a desperate man, but Killian knows if anyone can do it Liam can.

“What if I had an idea?” Emma admits. He looks down at her, Emma looks hopeful, a grin on her face and he can’t help but feel the excitement bursting from her. “I wasn’t entirely honest with you.” She admits. “I was running, but I was running somewhere.” She explains. “Somewhere safe, somewhere I think we can be safe.”

They are safe here. Killian wants to remind her, but he wants to listen to her idea anyway.

“There were rumors, of a place, outside society, outside everything, completely off the map, untraceable. It’s supposed to be a place for lost souls, people no one else understood.” She continues. “An old foster mom I had knows about it; she got me in touch with them. I saw it Killian, it seems just what we need.”

He raised a brow. “What we need?” He repeats. Because he thought here was perfect. Perfect enough at least.

“Not that I don’t love it here, but it’s bigger, it’s a little society, families, kids, everything. It’s for people like us to be able to live lives without being afraid.” She says trailing off.

People like us?

“Are you afraid?” He asks. Because something in the back of his mind doesn’t like this, something feels off.

“They already found me once; they almost hurt you and your daughter to get to me.” She reminds him. “What’s to stop them from coming back?”

He doesn’t know. A large part of him just trusts Alice’s abilities to keep them hidden; they have a knack for knowing what to do when things go wrong.

“Liam’s coming soon, we can go to somewhere else, another remote area.” He insists. “This place used to belong to an old uncle of ours, he has a few properties; we can leave tomorrow if you want.” But Emma cuts him off.

“This place is special.” She insists. “I already made arrangements to live there, they would accept both of you as well; I know it.”

“Didn’t they make you steal something that nearly got you killed?” Emma nods. So it is the same place. “Wasn’t it medicine for someone else?” He adds. Someone who wants you to steal necessary things from others doesn’t sound like a healthy environment for Alice.

“It was the initiation or something and I did it, we can go there, we can be safe with people, don’t you want Alice not to be isolated like this?” She insists. He does want that. His biggest regret is not being able to provide those social interactions. “People who understand not fitting in to society, people who have to pretend to be something they’re not.”

Alice. He thinks. He knows that’s what she means; it could be a place that accepts Alice for who she is so she wouldn’t have to hide. But something still doesn’t sit right with him.

It sounds too perfect, it sounds too familiar. He feels his heart hammer in his chest, the urge to take Alice and run becoming stronger with each word out of her mouth. He moves to sit up; he sits in the bed and just looks at Emma.

She sits up too; she’s in one of his too big T-shirts, her hand wrapped around his. He can’t help but remember Eloise being in that same position, perhaps that same T-shirt when she told him about her “place” the first time.

The place she wanted to build. A place she ended up building and moving to with him at her heels, dragged along with the promise it would still have rum. It was a place that turned out to be more hell than paradise.

“I have a way to contact the leader of this place, she’s kind and caring and a protector of sorts, at least, that’s what they told me.” She confirms. “The person I met, a woman named Gretel says she doesn’t meet newcomers until after they get through the initiation.”

His blood goes completely cold, his heart stops beating in his chest. He pulls his hand away.

“Gretel?” He repeats in a voice sounds stronger than it does to his own ears.

It’s not possible. No. No. This can’t be happening. Not again. Not again.

He looks back at Emma, and realizes where all that worry and suspicion came from. He’d been a fool to ignore it. Once again lust and love had been his downfall. Because this time Emma was what was too perfect.

He’d been a fool to believe that someone like Emma could ever care for someone like him, a single father with a drinking problem.

He was a fool.

“Her name is Mother Gothel and I promise Killian once you meet her, you’ll understand.”

Tagging: @hollyethecurious @therookshiningthrough @branlovesouat @celestial-fire-writer @winterbaby89 @kmomof4

#mentions of gothel #let the stars remind you #Captain Swan #knightrook #csff

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rayrayor · 3 months

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It took a year but the WIP is complete . My Galladads 💕

Now on to tag games , my other two wips and other stuff

That fantastic art is @luluxa, and the squiggles that pop up, all Lily

#gallavich #gallavich fanfic #gallavich fic #mickey milkovich #shameless fanfiction #mickey x ian #ian and mickey #ian gallagher #lily and her dads #liam and lily #galladads #galladad girl dad #poptarts for papa on ao3

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rayrayor · 5 months

Text

WIP Wednesday, kinda…..

@sam-loves-seb Thank you for the WIP Wednesday, as I am a slacker it’s WIP I spaced it Friday

So this is my story on AO3 , Poptarts for Papa. One chapter to be wrote . It’s Galladads , the early years

Like tonight there was a chill but the house warm. Something rich and savory was coming from the kitchen . The chatter and laughter drug him like a magnet down the hall. He leaned in the doorway taking in the scene. These three were at the best of time up to what could only be called antics or shenanigans. Ian and Liam were cutting on the well oiled boards and Lily sat chewing on a spoon on the counter. Now that was not unusual. What was unusual is the mound of chopped pieces , all onions. All three Gallagher’s were also donning pool eye goggles and pink dish gloves , with flamingos . Lily being so small the gloves were almost to her shoulders. Ian they were super tight.

“ Aye Do I want to even guess what’s happening here? Cause I think this time I actually may need some more hints. Also any good snacks around here.?”

” Mick dinner is happening soon, your gonna love it , can you wait ?”

” Pop doing an experiment. If we don’t get the onion on our skin or in our eyes no tears. Here if you’re gonna be in here put these on please. 9 onions no tears .”

” Umm yeah pops does not even swim , you want me all bug eyed and Alien looking like dad?”

” Papa Liam says googly glasses are safety and uncle Iggy says safety third. “

And who could argue with that three year old logic . So Mickey former prince of the Southside hood rat with knuckle tats and cartel connections strapped on the glasses, gloves and took a selfie with his family. Domesticated shit talking trash just loving his life. He got an approving pat from Lily as he hopped up next to her.

” so what smells good and what’s happening with all the onions after this , it’s a lot of onion rings.”

“ Mick you know that French onion soup you love “

” um cheesy shit and bread, ya man “

” well we can make it in the instant pot in like an hour. We broil the cheese and bread over it after it’s done.”

“Doing that with salad . Made a big chocolate tart while little miss was pretending to nap .”

Liam and Ian chatted about how Liam could write up his assignment when Mickey noticed a crumpled bag of chips next to him. Ian and Liam were now sautéing onions before they started the instant pot. He could sneak a few chips without Ian….

“ Holy hell Ian what is wrong with these chips , they are like soggy as.. butt. This is why we don’t need at fancy chips from Whole Foods. And I can’t see with these fogged up glasses. Are they quinoa, chickpea, recycled newspaper , what Red what?”

” Lily spit”

Liam began laughing as Mickeys brows arched out of the eye ware. Lily reached for the bag which Ian quickly took and gave her a very stern

“ Lily daddy said no “

” papa ate a chip “

” papa ate your spit , a bucket full. Really Mick gagging in the sink , are you three too?”

Mickey spit. “ punk I love you but why.”

Her face scrunched up and her brow matched Mickeys to the inch .

“ Daddy said could have cheese snack or banana snack cause we gets cake tonight . Wanna the chips papa, said please . Daddy’s says no Lily even tho I saids please.”

” E what happened then.?”

”Like I said your daughter pretended to nap . Snuck the bag in . Did not eat said chips but licked all the flavoring.”

He punctuated each word with the slap of the knife on garlic.

” EVERY. DARN. CHIP “

#gallavich fanfic #gallavich fic #mickey milkovich #shameless fanfiction #ao3 link #wip wednesday #liam and lily #lily and her dads #galladad girl dad #galladads #poptarts for papa on ao3

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kmomof4 · 5 months

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A Christmas Surprise Ch. 3

We are back with the next ch of A Christmas Surprise!! In this ch, Killian takes Emma out for NYE. I hope you enjoy and let me know what you think!!!

Summary: Elsa Jones enlists her friend Emma Swan to come up with a scheme to surprise her niece Alice Jones when her Papa, Killian, returns from deployment just in time for Christmas.

From the beginning on ao3/ Current ch

Rating G Total Christmas fluff ahead!!!

Words 4550 of 18,550

Tagging the usuals. Please let me know if you'd like to be added or removed.

@jrob64 @teamhook @winterbaby89 @hollyethecurious @artistic-writer @xarandomdreamx @undercaffinatednightmare @the-darkdragonfly @stahlop @superchocovian @pirateprincessofpizza @tiganasummertree @anmylica @cosette141 @motherkatereloyshipper @zaharadessert @jonesfandomfanatic @ultraluckycatnd @jennjenn615 @allons-y-to-hogwarts-713 @kymbersmith-90 @booksteaandtoomuchtv @wistfulcynic @mie779 @snowbellewells @lfh1226-linda @aprilqueen84 @whimsicallyenchantedrose @pirateherokillian @elfiola @ilovemesomekillianjones @justanother-unluckysoul @poptart-cat-78 @myfearless-love @goforlaunchcee @searchingwardrobes @gingerpolyglot @gingerchangeling @djlbg @cocohook38 @cs-rylie @thisonesatellite @donteattheappleshook @deckerstarblanche @veryverynotgoodwrites @wefoundloveunderthelight @fleurdepetite @alexa-fangirl-forever @bluewildcatfanatic @qualitycoffeethings

Under the cut, unless Tumblr ate it.

New Year’s Eve arrived, and Killian was thoroughly beside himself. The last week had been a whirlwind of activity that included talking to Alice about moving to Storybrooke permanently, polishing up his résumé, getting up to speed on what was required to get his architectural license renewed, not to mention planning the date with Emma.

It had been almost twenty-one years since he’d graduated with his degree, and his head was spinning with the requirements he’d need to meet to get his license in place. Thankfully, since he wasn’t reporting back for active duty for another month, he had time to get it all done and submit his résumé to Liam’s firm before returning to Boston.

Alice was ecstatic about staying in Storybrooke, at least through the end of the school year. She realized quickly that as happy as she was with her Papa being home, she didn’t want to leave her school, Henry, or her cousins behind to move back to Boston permanently.

Killian, Liam, and Elsa agreed it was a bit premature to tell the kids about his job opportunity, just in case it didn’t come to fruition, but after Liam talked with his boss, and then Killian talked to him as well, he was having trouble keeping a lid on his excitement. Everything was falling into place, and he couldn’t be more thrilled.

He wondered how much he should tell Emma on their date tonight. He wanted to be completely forthright with her about his intentions, but he didn’t want to scare her off, either. This was only their second official date, after all. And the first where they’d be completely without their family for the duration.

He looked at himself in the mirror and ran his fingers through his hair, touseling it just a bit. He was a little old to be preening in the mirror like this- now that he was in his 40’s, just a touch of frost was evident at his temples- but he had to admit, Emma Swan sent the butterflies in his stomach into flight like no one ever had before, and he wanted to look his best.

He came down the stairs to see everyone gathered in front of the fire, laying out Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit.

“Aren’t you going to wait for Henry to get here?” he asked.

Liam and Elsa looked up at him, matching grins on their faces. “Papa!” exclaimed Alice. “You look so handsome!”

Killian scratched behind his ear as Alice ran for him, throwing her arms around his waist.

“Thank you, Starfish.” He looked up at the rest of his family, happy to see all the smiles directed towards him. “I’m going to head out, but we’ll be back to drop off Henry in about twenty minutes.”

“We’re on teams anyway,” Elsa informed Killian as he turned toward the door. “And the boys are going first. As good as the kids are at Harry Potter, I expect it’ll still be Alice and Henry’s turn by the time he gets here, if it’s gotten to their turn in the first place.”

Killian chuckled his agreement before heading out into the night. Just a few minutes later, Killian was standing on Emma’s front stoop. He took a deep calming breath before knocking on the door.

“Hi, Mr. Jones!” Henry exclaimed, opening the door wide for Killian to enter.

“Hello, Henry,” Killian said, stepping into the foyer of the small house where Emma and Henry lived. Killian looked around at the tidy and tastefully decorated home before turning his attention back to the beaming boy in front of him.

“So where are you taking my mom tonight?” he asked.

Killian chuckled and scratched behind his ear, not surprised, but also not quite prepared for the boy’s question.

“I’ve made reservations for us at a restaurant in Portland that has an entire evening planned to ring in the new year,” Killian explained. “I hope your mother enjoys it.”

Henry’s eyes turned mischievous as he nodded. “My mom doesn’t date,” Henry informed him. “My dad died before I was born, and she hasn’t gone on a single date in my entire life. So I’m sure whatever you have planned, she’ll enjoy.” Henry’s gaze turned suddenly serious, and Killian’s heart rate picked up just a bit as he waited for the boy to gather his thoughts. “I love my mom a lot,” he said. “And I want to see her happy. Just, don’t break her heart, ok?”

Killian’s heart melted at Henry’s statement and request. The seriousness of his words demanded a genuine and heartfelt response. He knelt before Henry and placed his hand over his own heart.

“Henry,” he began, looking him right in the eyes, “You have my word. I will never knowingly hurt your mother. I can tell already, just from the time I’ve spent with her, that she is a priceless treasure, and her heart even more so. And if she were to deign to place it in my hands, I will honor and protect it to the end of the world and time.”

Emma stood around the corner from the foyer with tears in her eyes. She had stopped in the hallway when she heard Henry telling Killian that she never dated. He wasn’t quite accurate in his statement, but looking back now, she realized just how long it had been since she’d been on a date. She’d had a few dates when Henry was a baby, mostly at her mother’s behest. Mary Margaret Swan’s belief in True Love and Happily Ever After and how intertwined they both were would rival any Disney princess.

But hearing Henry’s request and then Killian’s response made her so glad they were both unaware of her presence. It gave her a few moments to dry her eyes and compose herself before greeting her date.

Killian rose to his feet as she came around the corner. She caught her bottom lip between her teeth at the gorgeous man in front of her. He wore a black suit that fit him perfectly. The scruff along his jaw had filled in a little more over the last week since she’d seen him, and Emma had to fight to keep her own jaw from hanging open. Her eyes roamed over him in blatant appreciation, and when she finally met his gaze, she caught her breath at the flame of desire she saw there. She didn’t know what he had planned, but she hoped her outfit was appropriate.

Killian’s gaze took Emma in from head to toe. He didn’t even attempt to hide his unabashed attraction and admiration from her. She wore a perfectly sinful, yet modest sleeveless black dress. It clung to every one of her curves, its neckline coming nearly to her neck and the hemline hitting her just above the knee. She wore black stockings and black wedge heels, perfect for dancing. Killian licked his bottom lip as his eyes met hers. He reached out his hand and took hers.

“It’s freezing outside, darling,” he said. “You’ll need a heavy coat.”

“I was born and raised in Maine, Killian,” she informed him with a smile. She opened the foyer closet and pulled out a long red wool coat. She handed it to him, and he held it open for her with a wide smile on his face as she slid her arms in and he settled it on her shoulders. She reached behind her under the collar and pulled her long hair out. She didn’t miss the way his eyes darkened at her innocent action. She needed a distraction and quickly. “Do you have your bag ready, Henry?”

“They were getting ready to start Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit when I left, Henry,” Killian called as the boy ran back to his room to grab his coat and overnight bag.

“I’m ready,” Henry exclaimed as he came around the corner again. Killian opened the door for them both and let them precede him into the frigid night air. He’d left his car running so it would be comfortably warm inside when they got in. It was cold enough outside that just the few minutes he’d been inside their home, would have been enough for all the heat accumulated on the drive over to be completely lost.

When they arrived back at Liam and Elsa’s house, Elsa’s earlier assessment was proven true. The twins had finally missed a question about five minutes before they arrived, and now Alice was already on her first pie piece. Henry jumped right in.

“Bye, guys,” Killian called. He chuckled when he was completely ignored.

Elsa waved distractedly at them. “Go, have fun! We’ll expect you home by one, Killian.”

Killian laughed. “I’m forty-one years old, Elsa. Little old for a curfew.” And with that, he ushered Emma back out the door.

Once they were on their way, Emma turned to Killian. “So where are we going?”

“Liam told me about a relatively new place in Portland that he and Elsa found a few months ago,” Killian said. “When I looked them up, they had an entire evening agenda for ringing in the new year. So I thought we could try it.” He looked over at her, gratified that her happy countenance was unchanged.

“That sounds fun.”

“The prix fixe menu on the website sounded great,” he told her. “I don’t remember what all was on there, but it included four courses, with several choices for the main course. The entré I remember was the Surf and Turf, lobster and a six ounce filet. I’ll be getting that,” he said, licking his lips.

“That does sound good,” Emma agreed.

“And after dinner, there’ll be dancing and they’ll be turning on the broadcast from New York for the ball drop.”

Emma was excited. A fancy dinner and dancing. She’d never been dancing before and she hoped she didn’t embarrass herself. Or him. She really liked him, and being so close with Elsa, she was keenly aware of how invested her best friend and her husband were in this new relationship.

“I heard you and Henry,” she said quietly. “Before I came in.” Emma bit her lip as she smiled when his cheeks flamed and he scratched behind his ear. The nervous tell of his was adorable and made her want to kiss the spot where he always scratched.

“I, ah…” he stammered.

“It’s alright,” she rushed to reassure him. “Your words were very sweet, and I don’t want you to worry that they’ll scare me off.” She took his unoccupied hand in hers and turned fully to him, taking in the flush on his cheeks and the ticking of the muscle in his jaw that told her just how anxious he was about her response. “I haven’t dated much since Henry’s father died, but I…” She looked down for a moment, a little anxious about revealing quite so much. But then she remembered Killian’s exact words to Henry. Words that were definitely not meant for her ears. Not yet anyway. She took a deep breath and continued. “I like you, Killian. A lot. And finally meeting you after listening to Elsa and Alice talk about you for nine months,” she paused again, steeling herself for her next words, “I know that you are very special, too. I’m looking forward to getting to know you better.”

Emma was normally a bit more circumspect about her thoughts and feelings. About anything, not just matters of the heart. But everything she already knew about Killian- from his words earlier, to her own observations, to the information she’d gleaned from Alice and Elsa- told her that this man before her was very special indeed, and her heart would be safe in his hands.

Killian had to blink rapidly to clear his vision so he could see to drive. He cleared his throat a couple of times before speaking.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know you better too, Emma,” he said sincerely. They were silent for a few moments before Killian spoke again. “You said you haven’t dated much, but Henry said you hadn’t dated at all.”

Emma laughed good naturedly. “Yeah, he was a baby the last time I went on a date. I’d be surprised if he remembered that.”

“He said his father died?” Killian asked. “If you wouldn’t mind sharing that, I’d like to hear it.”

“No, I don’t mind,” she replied easily. “It’s been a long time. Henry’s father was a lobster fisherman. We met while I was still in college at BU. We’d been together for several years, I was teaching in the Boston public school system, and we’d just gotten engaged. But he got caught in the lines on his boat and was swept overboard.”

“Oh, Emma,” Killian breathed. “I’m so sorry.”

Emma’s smile was small and soft. “I found out a few weeks later that I was pregnant.” She paused for a moment, blinking back her own tears. She hadn’t spoken about that time in her life in many years. “It was the proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back. After Neal was gone, I came home. I wanted my mom,” she said with a shrug. Killian gave her a soft, understanding smile. “I was on summer break, and when I found out I was pregnant, I couldn’t face returning to Boston and the home I’d shared with him, pregnant with his baby, knowing that I’d be raising our child alone. I got out of our lease and turned in my resignation to the school system. At least here, I had family, a support system I didn’t have in Boston.”

“I’m so glad,” Killian said.

The rest of the drive was made in companionable silence. Emma already knew about Milah from their first date, and Killian didn’t want to trivialize what she’d shared with him by immediately jumping to another topic of conversation. It wasn’t much farther to the hotel that housed Bacarmi Restaurant and Wine Bar, and they could just as easily pick up the conversation once they arrived. Just a few minutes later, Killian pulled up to the valet parking station.

After passing off the keys to the attendant, he opened Emma’s door, holding his arm out for her to take. Bacarmi’s was on the top floor of the hotel, and when they entered, they were immediately taken to their table near the back windows, giving them a spectacular view of the city.

“How did you get reservations here?” Emma whispered as soon as the maître d’ left them with menus. “This looks like the kind of place that would be booked for New Years in June!”

Killian blushed and scratched behind his ear again. “Apparently they hold a certain number of reservations on holidays for military servicemen and women and first responders. And since I qualify…” he trailed away, slightly embarrassed. He didn’t serve his country to be recognized as a hero or anything of that sort, but he had to admit, benefits like this for his service were quite welcome.

“That is lovely,” Emma said sincerely.

“It is,” Killian agreed, then turned his attention to his menu. “Ah, there it is,” he said excitedly, “Surf and Turf. A six ounce lobster with herbed butter paired with a six ounce filet topped with porcini compound butter, sautéed spinach and kale, and whipped potatoes.”

“That sounds delicious, but I’m looking at the seabass.”

Killian nodded in agreement. “Lump crab, lobster sauce, parmesan risotto and sautéed broccolini. That does look good.”

Once their wine and meal order was placed, their conversation flowed naturally. Emma told Killian about growing up in Maine and how Elsa had helped her get a job at Storybrooke Academy. Killian told Emma about some of the antics he and Liam got up to when they were growing up, and about his years in the service. And now that dinner was concluding, the thoughts from earlier returned of just how much he should share with Emma about his future plans. He watched her carefully as she took her last bite of chocolate mousse cake dessert.

Emma swallowed and took another sip of the best wine she’d ever enjoyed before meeting Killian’s gaze. His eyes were mesmerizing in the low light, but she could see some hesitancy and even a small amount of trepidation swirling in their depths.

“What is it, Killian?” she asked gently.

Killian dropped his head for a moment, a bit chagrined that he hadn’t kept his thoughts better concealed. There was nothing for it. In the face of a direct question, he had to answer her honestly. Not that he’d even consider telling her a falsehood, but he wasn’t sure how wise it was to bare his heart and mind to her quite this much at this point in their relationship.

“Speaking of my career in the Navy,” he began, looking her full in the face again, “You know that I’m about to retire.” Emma nodded. “I was commissioned not long after I graduated college with my degree in architecture. My commitment is done at the end of May, but with my terminal leave saved up, I’m out on April 11. I hadn’t given much thought to what I’d do once I was out,” he continued with a shrug. “I mean, I have some savings and I’ll continue to be paid at full salary until the end of May, then my retirement pay kicks in. Alice and I would be able to live comfortably for several months before I’d need to find another job. But as far as what that job might be, I really hadn’t thought about it.” He looked at her again, his eyes bouncing back and forth between hers, trying to read how she was taking this surplus of information. “Until Liam and I had some time to ourselves Christmas Eve after everyone was in bed,” he continued. “You know what he does, right?”

Emma nodded. “Of course. He helped me find our house not long after Henry was born, which is how Elsa and I met. I’d been living with my parents since moving back.”

Killian nodded. “Well, his firm also builds, and they are about to open a new division dedicated to commercial property. He encouraged me to submit my résumé and move here permanently once I retire.”

His eyes met hers again, and Emma was stunned to see a question in them. Was he asking her opinion on what he should do after he retired? Surely not.

Her eyes were wide and her mouth hung open slightly before she swallowed hard. Killian could have kicked himself. He’d shared too much.

Emma placed her hand on top of his where it lay on the table and laced their fingers together. “You have to make the best decision for you and for Alice,” she said. “Would I be happy if you moved to Storybrooke permanently? Yes,” she acknowledged, and Killian could breathe again. “But, it’s not my opinion that matters.”

“Alice doesn’t want to leave Storybrooke,” he informed her. “Of course, she’s happy I’m home, but she loves her aunt and uncle, she loves her school and her friends, and she loves you and Henry, and I don’t want to take her away from all of that. If I don’t have to.” He shrugged his shoulders. “Liam talked to his boss and explained my situation, and when I talked to him, we really hit it off. Liam thinks, and I agree, that my chances of being hired once I’ve separated from the service are pretty high.”

“Oh, Killian,” she breathed, “that’s wonderful! When will you know for sure?”

“The online portal for applicants will open at 8 am Tuesday morning,” he said. “My résumé is ready to go, but I will have to get my license reinstated, and that means sitting for the licensure exam on the 8th.”

“A week from tomorrow,” Emma said quietly. “Then you’ll have to go through all the interviews and things?”

“Yes,” Killian agreed. “But Liam’s boss, Nemo, said that he didn’t foresee any problems with bringing me on, and I’d likely have an offer in hand before I had to report back to duty on February first.” Killian smiled at her and rubbed her knuckles with his thumb. “I know this is a lot of information to take in and probably not the best topic of conversation on our second date, but I wanted you to know what I was thinking about my and Alice’s future and maybe start to explore how you and Henry might fit into that future.”

A soft smile spread across Emma’s lips. “I don’t think it’s a bad topic of conversation at all.”

A wide smile bloomed on Killian’s face as he rose to his feet, still holding her hand in his. “Well then, Swan, may I have this dance?”

A live band was getting ready to play on the opposite side of the room. Emma followed Killian to the empty dance floor, just as the band started playing The Carpenters Merry Christmas, Darling.

Killian put his arms around her, drawing her close. She could drown in the cerulean depths of his eyes and she wouldn’t mind one bit.

“I’ve never danced a slow dance like this,” she whispered.

Killian’s grin was thoroughly delighted. “Well, there’s only one rule. Pick a partner who knows what he’s doing.”

They danced for hours. The band was very good, playing classics like Nat King Cole’s Unforgettable and Frank Sinatra’s The Way You Look Tonight. They also played Let’s Start the New Year Right, by Bing Crosby, 1999 by Prince, and Happy New Year by ABBA. Sting’s Brand New Day and Rod Stewart’s What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve? were also included. As midnight approached, the band played NSYNC’s Kiss Me at Midnight. Emma couldn’t keep the grin off her face as she and Killian danced closely, Killian singing the words in her ear.

Baby, it’s New Years Eve

A time we can believe

In making wishes

Dreams come true

Just for me and you

Kiss me at midnight

Dance into the morning light

Party into the new year

All my friends are here and when the time is right

Kiss me at midnight

The band stopped playing and the volume on the big screen TVs in the bar area was turned up so they could all join in the countdown to the ball drop.

“Five… four… three… two… one!” they shouted. “Happy New Year!” The noise around them was deafening with the party horns and noisemakers being blown and shouts welcoming the turn of the calendar. Moments later, the band launched into Auld Lang Syne.

Emma stared into Killian’s eyes. He appeared to be as spellbound by her as she was by him. She couldn’t look away. This was a man she could love. She had no doubt. He held her close swaying to the music. Everything around them faded, and Emma wanted nothing more than to feel his lips on hers.

“Happy New Year, Emma,” he whispered.

“Happy New Year, Killian,” she replied just before his lips captured hers.

Emma all but melted in his arms at the feeling. Her lips parted when his tongue traced their seam, gently requesting entrance. Desire flared inside her as their tongues tangled. Killian held her close, one arm wrapped around her waist, holding her tightly against him, the other running through her hair. Emma tightened her own arms around him, never feeling as desired or as beautiful as she now felt in Killian’s arms. Much too soon, air became necessary and Killian pulled away from her.

They were both breathing heavily as they stared into each other’s eyes, still oblivious to anything around them.

Killian was completely gobsmacked. If it was possible to fall head over heels in love with someone from a single kiss, then that was exactly what had just happened to him. But it wouldn’t do to say that out loud at this moment in time. He thought back to his words to Henry earlier this evening when he’d promised to protect Emma’s heart were he so blessed to be gifted with it. A small smile touched his lips as he realized it was the other way around. His heart was unequivocally hers. To the end of the world or time.

Killian touched his forehead to hers. She still seemed a bit dazed from their kiss, and he couldn’t help the surge of male pride that flowed through him at that realization.

“I should probably be getting you home.”

Emma giggled, her eyes sparkling mischievously. “You’re probably right. You do have a curfew after all.”

Killian snorted. “You don’t think they’ll be waiting up for me, do you?”

Emma raised her eyebrows slightly. “If I know Elsa, I expect she will.”

Killian groaned and Emma giggled again. She was probably right. And if Elsa was up, that meant Liam would be up, too. There was nothing for it, he was gonna have to face the music. At least he wouldn’t have to face the inquisition from the kids tonight. No, Emma would have to join him in the hot seat when she came to pick up Henry.

Killian grinned as he saw the same realizations were coming over Emma as well. He held out his elbow to her and escorted her back to their table where he helped her into her coat.

The drive to Emma’s home was quiet, but they held hands the entire way. And after another kiss on the front stoop of her house, Killian stood there for a few moments once Emma retreated inside. His life had been thoroughly turned upside down in the last two and a half weeks and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

Killian arrived back home just a few minutes later and made sure to rattle the front door a bit just in case Elsa and Liam were waiting up for him. Sure enough, when he entered the living room, he found his brother and sister-in-law hurriedly smoothing down hair and clothes as they both sat up on the sofa, trying, and failing, to present a respectable and united front. Killian chuckled, he wasn’t fooled a bit.

“So how was the date?” Elsa asked. Her cheeks were still a little pink, whether from her husband’s attentions or embarrassment at being caught, Killian couldn’t tell. “We want to hear all about it. Did you dance? I’ve never known Emma to dance. Was there a goodnight kiss?”

Killian chuckled again. He cut his eyes at his brother, whose cheeks were also red, but didn’t seem to be as anxious for answers to Elsa’s questions. Killian took a deep breath.

“You’ll have to ask all that of Emma tomorrow,” Killian said with a smile. “Or, later today, rather. We had a lovely evening. Thank you for the recommendation, brother.” With those words, Killian turned toward the stairs and started making his way to his room. But before he got to the top of the stairs, he heard Elsa speak in a low voice.

“He looks happy.”

“Yes, he does.”

Killian paused at the top of the stairs, straining his ears for anything else they might say. But when Liam spoke again, he wished he hadn’t.

“Now, where were we?”

~*~*~

Thank you for reading and sharing! The final ch will be up on Friday!!

#a christmas surprise #krystal writes #art by krystal #christmas fluff

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kmomof4 · 5 months

Text

A Christmas Surprise- NEW CHAPTER!!

Summary: Elsa Jones enlists her friend Emma Swan to come up with a scheme to surprise her niece Alice Jones when her Papa, Killian, returns from deployment just in time for Christmas.

If you're thinking this fic sounds familiar, you're right! I originally wrote this fic two years ago, but last year an idea came to me of how I could continue the story. It was too close to Christmas last year to get it done, so I wrote this addition last spring and it's been waiting for December to get here so I could post it!! I still think this fic is the cutest thing I've ever written and I hope you enjoy this continuation. The addition turned out to be much too long, so I divided it up into three chs. The next ch will post on Tuesday with the final ch posting next Friday.

On ao3 from the beginning/ current ch

Words: 5225 of 18,550

Rating: G, total Christmas fluff ahead!!!

All the love and thanks to @jrob64 and @snowbellewells for being the best betas out there. I so hope you enjoy and let me know what you think!

Tagging the usuals. Please let me know if you'd like to be added or removed.

@teamhook @winterbaby89 @hollyethecurious @artistic-writer @xarandomdreamx @undercaffinatednightmare @the-darkdragonfly @stahlop @superchocovian @pirateprincessofpizza @tiganasummertree @anmylica @cosette141 @motherkatereloyshipper @zaharadessert @jonesfandomfanatic @ultraluckycatnd @jennjenn615 @allons-y-to-hogwarts-713 @kymbersmith-90 @booksteaandtoomuchtv @wistfulcynic @mie779 @lfh1226-linda @aprilqueen84 @whimsicallyenchantedrose @pirateherokillian @elfiola @ilovemesomekillianjones @justanother-unluckysoul @poptart-cat-78 @myfearless-love @goforlaunchcee @searchingwardrobes @gingerpolyglot @gingerchangeling @djlbg @cocohook38 @cs-rylie @thisonesatellite @donteattheappleshook @deckerstarblanche @veryverynotgoodwrites @wefoundloveunderthelight @fleurdepetite @alexa-fangirl-forever @bluewildcatfanatic

@qualitycoffeethings

Under the cut, unless Tumblr ate it.

Killian Jones sat in the darkness of the giant present in which he was hiding, waiting for his daughter’s Christmas program to begin. He couldn’t wait to see his starfish when he surprised her after she sang her solo this evening. He was proud to serve his country, but the long deployments made things especially difficult. Having Liam and Elsa so close by and willing to care for Alice when he was gone was a blessing he didn’t take for granted in the least, but he was so thankful that he was home for good now and was eligible to retire in just a few more months.

Which made him think about what would come next. What the future might hold and how the lovely Emma Swan might fit into it. He’d been thoroughly gobsmacked when he laid eyes on the golden haired beauty who was Alice’s teacher when he arrived at the school earlier. And then the revelation that she was single sent his heart rate ratcheting up like he hadn’t experienced since he’d met his late wife. It had been six years since he’d lost his beloved Milah, and the thought of re-entering the dating scene hadn’t crossed his mind once in all that time. He was still relatively young and handsome, but with his very young daughter and Navy career, he didn’t have the time or inclination to put himself back out there.

But Emma Swan might just change his mind on that front.

He knew his countenance sported a goofy, thoroughly besotted smile when he heard movement on the outside of the box in which he sat. Bright light from the auditorium flooded the dark space as the small door in the side of it opened, helping him immensely in the schooling of his features before being confronted with the object of his thoughts as she handed him his dinner.

“Do you have enough light to see to eat in here?” Emma asked, looking around.

Killian grimaced. He hadn’t really thought of that. “Perhaps not.”

“I can stay for a bit while you eat, turn the flashlight on on my phone. So you can see to eat,” she stammered. The blush on her cheeks was adorable, and Killian’s heart rate picked up yet again.

“That would be great. Thank you, Emma.”

She smiled as she moved into the space with him. It was a bit cramped with them both sitting on the floor, but he didn’t mind it at all. He tucked into his Christmas meal of roast turkey and dressing, mashed potatoes, green beans and cranberry salad as Emma told him about some of the antics Henry, Alice, and her cousins had gotten up to this semester.

She told him about Liam Jr and Colin hiding Alice’s pencil box on the first day of school. Meant as an initiation of sorts, it had made Elsa’s morning that much more hectic and stressful trying to find it and make it to school on time. Emma related how she’d had trouble containing her giggles when the twins confessed what they’d done, handed over the pencil box, and got exactly what was coming to them from their mother. Later on the same day, in retaliation, Alice and Henry had hidden away the twins’ lunch boxes. Killian had to stifle his laughter at the story.

Then Emma told him about the time just a few weeks ago when Alice was delayed coming back from the restroom. When Emma went to look for her, she found the child peeking into the auditorium where her cousins were engaged in a basketball game with another school in the area. Colin had just made a shot, and Alice was cheering loudly for her cousin from the hallway when Emma found her. Killian’s heart swelled.

By this time, he’d finished his meal and it was time for Emma to depart.

“Alice’s solo is I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” Emma explained. “Do you sing at all? Why don’t you join her for the last line of the song? She’ll just be singing the stanza we all know and love twice, with a bridge in between, so you’ll know exactly when to come in.” Emma’s face was lit up in the light from her phone, and Killian grinned, even as his cheeks heated.

He scratched behind his ear in embarrassment as he spoke. “I’ve been told,” he shrugged, “I have a reasonably nice sounding voice. I think that’s a great idea. So the second time she sings the verse, I’ll join her for the last line and come out of the box?”

Emma nodded. “Yes.” A little giggle burst from her lips as she rose, preparing to leave the cramped quarters, and Killian was utterly charmed. “I can’t wait to see the look on Alice’s face. I’ve been looking forward to this all week.”

“I have too,” Killian agreed. “When Elsa told me what you had planned, I was excited too. And a bit overwhelmed,” he admitted. “That anyone besides Elsa would care so much about Alice that they would arrange something like this…” He trailed away for a moment. “Thank you, Emma.”

Emma had to look away from his sincere expression, a blush heating her cheeks. “You’re quite welcome, Killian. She’s an absolute dear and one of my favorite students. I’ll see you at the end of the program.” And with that, she slipped out of the box, leaving Killian to his thoughts.

~*~*~

Sitting there in the dark listening to the program going on onstage was torture. He could hear everything, and he had no doubt that if he joined in the laughter with the audience and then the sing-along towards the end of the program, the children on the stage would be able to hear him, thus spoiling the surprise. But the time finally came for Alice to sing her solo. A smile with just a touch of sadness and nostalgia broke over his face. Milah hadn’t been able to carry a tune in a bucket, but she loved to listen to him sing, especially to their baby girl at bedtime. He could hear the piano music, and then his Starfish began to sing with her strong and sweet voice.

I’ll be home for Christmas.

You can count on me.

Please have snow and mistletoe

And presents by the tree.

Christmas Eve will find me

Where the love light gleams.

I’ll be home for Christmas

If only in my dreams.

Tears were coursing down his face as he listened, and he didn’t know if he was going to be able to wait for the last line of the song. He heard Alice begin the next stanza, but suddenly, she stopped singing and a hiccupping sob escaped her. Killian quickly dried his own tears and picked up where his Starfish had left off as he opened the box and stepped out in front of it.

Christmas Eve will find me

Where the love light gleams

Killian’s heart melted with love and pride when his eyes landed on Alice. She was looking at Emma who was knelt down next to her and was pointing towards him, tears shining in her eyes.

Alice turned toward him and the confusion on her face melted into pure unadulterated joy when she spotted him.

“Papa!” she shouted.

She ran across the stage and leapt into his waiting arms. His little girl had grown a lot in the last nine months, and he was nearly toppled by her enthusiastic greeting. Spinning around with his daughter in his arms, he planted loud, smacking kisses all over her face. He knew she missed him as much as he did her because she didn’t try to wiggle out of his embrace when he did that.

After he set her down, he looked around the quickly emptying auditorium, finding the rest of his family waiting to welcome him home. He hugged his twin nephews, Liam Jr. and Colin, tightly, exclaiming how they looked more like their father than ever. Then Alice was back in front of him, holding the hand of an older boy behind her.

“Papa, this is Henry Swan,” she introduced. “He’s my best friend.” She turned to her friend with a wide smile on her lips. Killian held out his hand for the young man to shake.

“It’s so nice to meet you, Henry,” Killian said, sincerely. “I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you befriending my Alice when I deployed last spring.” He looked down at his daughter as she hugged him tightly around the waist, draping his arm across her shoulders. “She can be shy, so it means a lot for someone to reach out to her when she only knew her cousins here at the school.”

The boy blushed as he shook Killian’s hand. “It was my pleasure, sir,” Henry said, a bit shyly himself.

Killian felt his own cheeks heat as he moved toward Emma, scratching behind his ear in nervousness.

“Thank you so much for this, Emma,” he said sincerely. “I truly can’t tell you what it means to me.”

Emma smiled, the action lighting up her green eyes, and Killian caught his breath. “I was happy to do it, Killian.”

He scratched behind his ear again, not meeting her eyes, searching for the words to ask this beautiful woman out on a date. “Could I… uh, would you mind if…” He remembered that Liam was fond of saying a man unwilling to fight for what he wants, deserves what he gets, and Killian had a feeling this lovely lady in front of him was definitely worth fighting for. He finally looked up at her and just spit it out. “Would you like to get a cup of coffee sometime? It’s the start of Christmas break, is it not?” he asked as she looked back at him after looking down at Henry, who stood beside her grinning widely.

“It is,” she affirmed. “And I’d love to have coffee with you, Killian.”

Killian couldn’t keep the grin off of his face if he tried. Being back home with his daughter and family around him, and now going on a date with one of the most beautiful women he’d ever laid eyes on, he had a feeling his life was on the precipice of something great. And he couldn’t wait to see what the future held.

~*~*~

It was Christmas Eve, and Killian didn’t think he could possibly be any happier. Having this time with his family after being away for nine months was a respite he desperately needed. And the addition of the time spent with Emma since they’d met a little over a week ago was only the icing on the cake.

The day after the Christmas program, he and Emma met for coffee, which stretched to lunch, and then all the way to the end of the day. Killian could feel his cheeks heat as he remembered the wide happy smiles on Elsa and Liam’s faces as they passed in front of the coffee shop where he and Emma had met, herding the four children toward Granny’s a couple of doors down for lunch. Killian had been completely oblivious to the time, and when Elsa caught his eye as they passed, he’d pulled out his phone, stunned to find that over two hours had passed in Emma’s delightful company. They quickly settled their tab and joined the rest of them at Granny’s where he got an up front and personal look at just how well Emma and Henry fit into his family. It was enough to really get him thinking about seriously pursuing Emma.

After lunch, he’d been loath to part from her, so had spontaneously invited her and Henry to accompany them as they sought out the perfect Christmas tree. Elsa and Liam hadn’t yet decorated when they received word that he’d be arriving home and decided to put it off until after he got there. It took the rest of the afternoon and evening to find, put up, and decorate the tree.

Since that first all day “date”, Emma and Henry had joined the Jones family for all of the requisite holiday traditions- decorating the rest of the Jones’ domicile, holiday baking, and ice-skating on the frozen pond in the park.

The kids had arranged an ice skating outing for all of them the previous Tuesday. Killian Jones might have served his country in the United States Navy for almost twenty years, but there was a big difference between being on a ship in the middle of the ocean and trying to navigate frozen water on nothing more than a single blade in the middle of his feet. Why they didn’t have double-bladed skates for adults to rent, he’d never know.

But he really couldn’t complain much since Emma was usually the one helping him to his feet when he fell. Alice and Henry had been concerned at first, but the more he fell, the funnier they thought it was. By the time he was ready to hang up the skates and just watch the rest of them, Alice and Henry’s red faces were as much from their laughter at him as from the cold. But again, he couldn’t complain, because seeing the happiness and laughter on his daughter’s face was well worth the humiliation of multiple wipeouts on the ice in front of the woman he really liked and wanted to impress. Thankfully, Emma soon joined him on the bench, where they sipped hot chocolate and laughed as they watched the children cavort on the rink.

Now, arriving back home after the Christmas Eve service at church, Killian couldn’t help the love and happiness blooming in his chest as he watched his family and the woman he was quickly falling for and her son gather around the tree for their gift exchange.

As he stood in the doorway to the kitchen watching them, Emma stood up and approached him. Her smile was bright and happy, and Killian returned it as she got closer.

“I’m just going to refill my glass,” she said, holding it up to show him. He moved quickly to the side to let her pass. A minute or so later, she stopped next to him on the way back out to the living room. “Are you coming?”

“Yes,” he replied. “I was just watching everyone for a minute.” He paused for a moment, and she was silent as he gathered his thoughts. “I’m so happy to be home,” he said in a whisper. He turned toward Emma, not sure if he spoke loud enough for her to hear him. Her eyes and smile were soft, and he knew she had.

“I know you are,” she said. “And I know how happy Alice and the rest of your family are to have you home as well. They missed you.”

“I missed them,” he said, looking back out at the room where everyone else was gathered. “It’s very hard being away from them for so many months at a time.”

“I couldn’t imagine,” she commiserated.

Liam looked up at them then and a spark of mischief appeared in his eye. Killian immediately was on the alert. That look always meant Liam was up to something.

“Oh, would you look at that,” he called jovially, pointing at them, then up to the top of the doorway where they stood.

Killian looked up and immediately felt his cheeks flame. He glanced at Emma, her countenance still directed to the greenery hanging above them, her jaw hanging open slightly. When she looked at him, bashful but pleased surprise was all over her face. He couldn’t believe he’d forgotten Liam and Elsa’s habit of hanging mistletoe in the doorway to the kitchen.

It was a tradition that had begun when they were dating. Liam had Elsa over for dinner in his apartment, and when he started bringing the dishes he’d prepared for their meal from the kitchen to the table, Elsa jumped up to help him. Each time they passed each other in the doorway, they’d kiss, so when Christmas rolled around, they decided it was the perfect place to hang the mistletoe. And it had hung there every year since.

Elsa couldn’t disguise her glee when she looked over at them. “Go on, Killian,” she urged. “You can’t break tradition.” Everyone in the room was now staring at them, with the kids exchanging furtive glances before joining together in only a moderately loud chant kiss kiss kiss. Killian glanced at Alice and Henry, taking in their smiling faces before turning back to Emma.

He leaned in close, never taking his eyes off hers. They sparkled with undisguised anticipation, but he had to make sure she was really agreeable before doing anything else, no matter what the members of the peanut gallery wanted.

“Are you alright with this, Emma?”

Her smile widened even more. “Yes, Killian,” she whispered.

“We’ll save a real kiss for when we don’t have an audience watching,” he whispered huskily, before brushing his lips against the corner of her mouth. He pulled back and was thrilled to see a deep blush on her cheeks and wide smile on her lips. She looked down, embarrassed, before making her way back to the living room where everyone had broken into whoops and cheers of celebration. Killian couldn’t help the surge of satisfaction he felt that she appeared to welcome his advances. He followed her into the living room and sat on the sofa, wrapping his arm around Alice as Liam Jr. got ready to play Santa and hand out the gifts.

Once they were handed out, it didn’t appear to have made any sort of dent in the pile under the tree. The twins and Alice had each been allowed to open two gifts- one a new set of pajamas they got every year, and then a second of their choosing from under the tree. Gifts between the adults would be exchanged in the morning, but Liam had gotten a joint gift for Elsa and Emma who also had gifts for each other, and Alice had a gift for Emma and Henry, Henry had a gift for Alice, and Emma had a gift for Killian.

They watched Henry and Alice open their presents to each other first. Henry was thrilled when he opened a new journal for him to write in, which appeared to have been hand made by his friend and was decorated with writing quotes and stickers. Henry was blushing furiously as Alice opened her gift, a hardbound copy of a story he’d written just for her. Alice and Killian both were completely stunned at the gift. Killian couldn’t imagine the kind of time and effort it would have required to make a gift like this. Alice threw her arms around Henry’s neck and gave him a loud smacking kiss on the cheek.

“Thank you, Henry,” she gushed. “I’ll treasure it always.”

Then it was Emma’s turn, and she opened a travel mug with World’s Best Teacher on the side from Alice, and she was the one to open the gift for herself and Elsa from Liam- a gift certificate for the two of them for a spa day that included facials, massages, getting their nails done, as well as a gourmet lunch. Elsa squealed, and planted a very enthusiastic kiss on her husband’s lips in thanks. Emma laughed at the display.

“I won’t be doing that,” she quipped at Liam, a wide grin on her face. “But, thank you.”

Liam laughed. “I wouldn’t expect you to,” he shot right back at her, his arm around Elsa’s shoulders. “But, you’re welcome.”

Emma then opened her gift from Elsa to find warm fleece pajamas. Elsa knew how hard Emma found it to stay warm in the Maine winters, so the yellow and forest green plaid pjs were very welcome and appreciated. Emma bought Elsa a gift card to her favorite coffee shop that would likely last her at least a month.

Finally, Emma brought the gift she’d bought for Killian toward him. Killian was surprised, and he was sure she could see it on his face.

“You shouldn’t have, Emma,” he protested. “I don’t have anything for you.”

Emma shrugged, but she had a smile on her face. “Don’t worry about that. It really isn’t much. I know we haven’t known each other long, but I feel like I do know you after hearing Elsa and Alice talk about you the whole time you’ve been gone. So when I saw this while I was grocery shopping last week, I thought you probably missed it while you were gone.” She handed him a relatively tall and round gift, wrapped with the same paper that had wrapped the box he’d hidden in for the program. He opened it carefully and his jaw dropped in surprise before his eyes met hers.

“How did you know?” he asked, completely flabbergasted. In his hands was a very large tin of one of his very favorite treats, Pirouline hazelnut creme filled wafers.

“Elsa told me,” she replied. “She found some at the grocery store and bought them for Alice not long after you deployed so she could have one of her Papa’s favorite treats every day, since you couldn’t while you were gone.”

Killian felt the tears gathering in his eyes as he thought of his little girl enjoying the cookies on his behalf so she hopefully wouldn’t miss him quite so much. Emma grinned as he hugged Alice tightly to him and placed a kiss on the top of her head, so grateful to be back home with the ones he loved again.

“Thank you, Emma,” he choked out. “This means a lot.”

“You’re welcome.” She turned back toward Henry, catching him in the middle of a huge yawn. “Come on, kid,” she cajoled. “It’s time to head home and to bed, or Santa won’t come.”

“Uh huh,” Henry replied, a tired yet sarcastic smirk on his face as he rose to his feet. Emma ruffled his hair and smirked back at him in return.

“Or more likely, if you don’t go to bed soon, you won’t wake up early enough in the morning for us to make it to Grandma and Grandpa’s house for Grandpa’s Christmas pancakes,” she added. That got Henry moving quickly toward the door. Emma turned and faced the room. “Merry Christmas, everyone. We’ll see you…” Emma trailed away with a quiet chuckle. “Sometime next week.” Elsa rose to see Emma and Henry out, and Killian squeezed Alice and whispered in her ear.

“I’m just going to say goodnight to Emma, too,” he said. “Is that alright?”

Alice beamed at him. “Yes, Papa. I love Miss Swan. And I know you’ll love her, too.”

Killian was taken aback. Could she possibly mean…? Surely not, she was much too young for that. Or at least, he hoped she was…

Alice wasn’t finished. “You should go out on a real date. Without all of us.”

Killian frowned. “How do you know about dating?” he asked. “Aren’t you a little young for that?”

Alice rolled her eyes at him. She looked just like her mother when she did, and Killian felt a pang go through his heart. “I watch TV, Papa,” she informed him like it was the most obvious thing in the world. Killian rolled his eyes in response.

“So you’d be ok with me dating Miss Swan?” he asked, just to make sure.

Alice smiled and bopped him on the nose. “Yes, Papa.” Killian nodded and kissed Alice on the tip of her nose.

“I love you, Starfish.”

“I love you, too, Papa.”

Killian squeezed her one more time and rose from the sofa, arriving at the front door just as Emma and Henry were walking through it.

“Emma,” he called softly. She turned toward him and the smile that covered her face took his breath away. Elsa gave him a pleased and bashful smile as she moved back toward the living room and the rest of the family. “I just wanted to tell you goodnight, and thank you again for my Christmas present.”

Emma blushed at his words and cut her eyes away from him for a moment before meeting his gaze again. “I’m glad you like it.”

“Uh, I was wondering…” He trailed away and scratched at the spot behind his ear. “Do you have plans for New Years?”

Emma’s smile widened even more. “I don’t,” she replied.

“Would, ah, would you like to go out with me?” he stammered. He didn’t know what was wrong with him. He’d never been this nervous asking a woman out before, not even in the early days of dating Milah. And he’d already spent time with her and was quite sure she was interested in him as well. Maybe it was the fact that his entire family was only a few feet away and could easily hear them if they were so inclined. He hoped they weren’t, but given how they acted earlier when they were caught under the mistletoe, he wasn’t terribly optimistic.

“I’d love to,” she said, her smile even wider, if that was possible, and her eyes sparkling. “I’ll need to find a sitter for Henry…”

“Oh, don’t worry about Henry,” Elsa called from the living room. “He can spend the night here with us. You two go out and have fun.”

Emma’s eyes widened and then cut away from his as he bowed his head and chuckled at Elsa’s offer.

“Thank you, Elsa,” Killian called, only slight exasperation at her obvious eavesdropping coloring his tone.

“You’re welcome,” she called back. He could hear the satisfaction in her voice and could imagine her smug face, even if he couldn’t see it.

“I’ll pick you up at 7?” he asked.

“That’ll be great, Killian,” she said, her smile softening as she looked back out the door toward where Henry was waiting in her car. “I’ll see you then.” She looked back at him, raised up on her toes, and brushed her lips against the corner of his lips, just as he’d done earlier. “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.”

~*~*~

Some hours later, Killian and Liam sat in front of the dying fire, sipping from tumblers of rum. The rest of the family was sound asleep in their beds, but the brothers hadn’t had much time to be alone, so Liam had stayed up with Killian to help him put together the doll house he’d bought for Alice. And now that it was finished, they were enjoying a quiet drink together.

“How long before you report back for duty?” Liam asked.

“I report back February first,” Killian replied.

“And retirement date?”

“Officially it’s May 31,” he informed him, “but with my terminal leave saved up, the ceremony is April 11th.”

Liam nodded. “Have you given any thought to what you’ll do after you retire?”

Killian took a deep breath. “As far as working, no.” He paused for a moment. “But I have thought about dating Emma.” His voice wasn’t much more than a whisper, but he hoped his brother heard his words and he wouldn’t have to repeat them.

“Good.” Killian looked at his brother to see a satisfied smile on his face. “I’m glad to hear it. With your retirement imminent, you really don’t have a valid reason anymore to not date.” Liam’s eyebrow rose and Killian couldn’t help but bristle a bit at his brother’s words. “Don’t get your back up, Killian,” Liam continued, moving his hands in a placating gesture. “I know you loved Milah very much, and being a father to a young daughter is more than enough reason to be cautious in that area,” he acknowledged, and Killian could feel his ire receding at his brother’s words. “But I know Emma. And I know you. And I think you could be very happy together.”

Killian smiled at that last statement. “I think you’re right,” he agreed.

“And that brings us to housing arrangements.” The smile on Liam’s face made Killian smile too.

“I can’t impose on your hospitality forever, brother,” Killian said.

“There’s a house in the next neighborhood over,” Liam informed him. “It’s lovely. Two story, storage in the back, a view of the sea. I don’t know square footage or how many bedrooms it has, but it looks like plenty of room for a family.” Liam’s face was entirely too innocent, and Killian chuckled and rolled his eyes.

“You don’t need to do that, you know,” he said. “You couldn’t be more obvious. You want me to move here.”

Liam smiled. “You have to admit, the idea has merit. Your family is here, Emma is here, Alice could grow up with her cousins and Henry…”

“But what kind of job opportunities are there here?” Killian asked. “I’ve got some savings, but I can’t live off my retirement. I have a much better chance of finding good work in Boston.”

Liam scratched behind his ear with the same nervous tell Killian had. “This is very hush hush and isn’t public knowledge yet, but the firm is gearing up to open a whole new division for commercial property. With the surge of vacationers we’ve seen the last couple of years, the demand for services has really grown, and we have businesses coming out of the woodwork that need buildings to move into. Storybrooke doesn’t have the infrastructure to support them at the moment. I was the top agent in residential sales for the last two quarters and I’m on track to do it again this quarter as well. I’m sure I could put in a word for you and they’d agree to hold a position for you until April. They’ll be announcing the expansion and accepting résumés after the new year.”

Killian’s eyebrows rose nearly to his hairline. “Really? Wow…” This information all but sealed the deal for him. Of course he’d have to see numbers- salary, benefits, the price tag on the house Liam mentioned, but he couldn’t deny how well it all seemed to fit together and intersect perfectly with his own needs and desires.

“Since this is still on the down low, and the office is closed this week, I can give Nemo a call Wednesday or Thursday and tell him you’re interested.” Liam paused for a moment, his gaze on Killian intense. “If you’re interested, that is.”

Killian took a sip of his drink before replying. “Yes, I’m definitely interested.”

Liam’s relieved smile rivaled the lights on the tree as he stood. Killian stood as well, and the two men embraced warmly.

“This would be a dream come true, brother,” Liam said, patting him on the back before releasing him.

“It would,” Killian agreed. “I’ve missed you all.”

“We’ve missed you, too,” Liam said. “It’ll be so good to have you and Alice here in town and working in the same building.”

“It’s not a done deal yet, Liam,” Killian said laughing. “There’s still a lot up in the air about the entire situation.”

Liam scoffed and waved his hand in a dismissive gesture. “Pfft. It’ll work out. I can feel it in my bones.”

Killian smiled warmly and turned toward the stairs. “We’ll see. I hope so. Goodnight, brother. Merry Christmas.”

“Goodnight, Killian. Merry Christmas. Love you.”

“Love you, too.” Killian smiled and climbed the stairs to his room leaving a very happy Liam behind him.

~*~*~

Thank you for reading and sharing. New Years date will post on Tuesday!

#a christmas surprise #krystal writes #art by krystal #new chapter #christmas fluff

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