Epilogue

x

Dear, Swan,

It's been only ten days since we parted yet I feel your absence greatly. Victor called me 'lovesick' the other night, but I suspect he won't be the one laughing when his favourite guitar goes missing…

(See what separation does to the soul, love?)

Perhaps I ought to return it before Victor too, goes insane. After all, I've been warned that it's extremely difficult to replace a fellow guitarist five weeks before a tour so I'd rather not cause a war outbreak...

Right, then; an amusing anecdote for you, Swan –

Our first gig was last night and over two hundred people turned up at a local venue. I was so convinced the crowd were expecting another band that it wasn't until our entire set was over - and surprisingly, no one stormed out – that I accepted our new-found fame.

I know what you're thinking, love. Fame is a strong word.

Fair enough.

However, it was grand to hear fellow music-lovers singing along to music I'd written alone in a studio. There was definitely something wonderfully surreal about the gig. Considering weeks before, these songs were rough drafts and random pieces of songs all pieced together one by one, I felt a wondrous strangeness the entire time.

We even had an encore, can you believe it?

Well, there's one thing for certain now; if this was a tiny gig, Swan, I'm unsure whether I'm prepared for the tour.

Prepared or not, it's five weeks to go, so if you'll excuse me, I must be off now. Our next gig is in a few days up at the Boyle Art Festival in Longford, which I'm most looking forward to. Hopefully we'll be able to play some of the songs off the album too.

I miss you beyond words can say, Swan, so please write and tell me about anything and everything. Life in New York, work; the colour of the sky where you are. Thank the gods for the busy schedule otherwise I'd be neck-deep in writing angst-filled songs about distance and a certain blonde with eyes that awakens my soul.

Yours – until you grow tired -

Jones.

P.S. I've been informed that a dozen newspapers are currently attempting to find the 'source of my romantic muse'.

P.P.S. My advice to you, Swan; watch out.

x

Dear, Jones,

First of all, I must sadly inform you that life here is as usual.

In fact, work is now a nightmare thanks to you. Honestly, Mary-Margaret and Belle have yet to quit teasing me ever since you left. I'm really beginning to question my choice of friendships.

However you're not the only one who has been deemed 'lovesick' either. According to one Ruby Lucas, I am a 'grumpy lovesick puppy' which is, of course, ridiculous given the fact that I, a) am currently writing to you, and b) gleefully holding back details of our date in order to maintain blackmailing Ruby into submission.

For now, it's holding up wonderfully.

(She's even bought me bear claws every day for the past week. How about that?)

Be proud, Jones; be very proud.

I'd be lying if I said I didn't think of you often.

Whenever I pass this tiny music shop on the corner of Astor Place, your handsome face pops into my mind. Smirks and raised brow and all. I'm not used to being in the, as Ruby calls it, 'dating pool' so I'm surprised I've yet to panic.

Though perhaps, after all, I'm learning to swim again. That is if you promise to swim alongside me?

Accept the blame for that hideous metaphor, Jones; I beg you.

Please do keep me informed of how the Festival goes. If it's anything like the previous events, I'm sure you'll have many more amusing tales to tell, complete with crazy fans and if you're lucky, even the odd stalker!

Sincerely, Swan.

P.S. I miss you.

P.P.S. Scratch that. Let's raise the cliché bar even higher; I miss you, and I wish you were here.

x

"And she agreed?"

"Well, if you count a surprised expression as a 'yes' – like Robin, bless his soul, did – then I suppose she didn't flat out say no."

Emma snorted out a laugh.

"Oh, but Swan, you ought to have been here to witness such a beautiful moment. Of awkward silence and embarrassment, Robin was a complete mess. A schoolboy hanging his head, even."

"And Regina blushed? Seriously? Like…actual flushed cheeks and fluttery eyelashes? We are talking about your manager, Regina Mills, right? The beautiful but sharp Queen of business and organisation?"

Even the image seemed quite ridiculous, and Emma couldn't wipe away the amused grin tugging at her lips as she pictured poor Robin inviting Ms. Mills for coffee after work.

Killian's laugh echoed a pleasant sound dancing down the line. "Seven hells, Regina looked positively scandalized." He relayed, pausing to chuckle before continuing once more. "We're in the studio at the moment. That is, Victor and I. David disappeared to meet a friend, but we'll be sure to bug Robin for details the second he returns later."

Silently mouthing a 'thank you' to Ruby as she handed her a mug of hot chocolate, Emma looked impressed. "Huh. Well played Robin."

"Honestly, Swan," Killian's reply was equally pleased. "I feel like a proud father."

"I bet."

"How are things in New York?"

"Fine, I guess. Same old. Although, uh," She paused to run a hesitating hand over the armchair. "Something rather interesting did happen a couple of days ago."

"Do tell."

"Tamara came into the station."

"This is the wife of He-who-shall-not-be-named?"

"Correct."

"What for?"

Emma cleared her throat for a beat, unreceptive to the quiet feeling of shame that seemed to tag along with even the simple mention of the past. "She uh…actually came to see me. Wanting to apologise. Apparently Neal confessed to how we knew each other, and she felt, how she phrased it, 'awkward'. We spoke for a bit, but…can you believe it? She actually knows Belle through the library, so thing weren't too painful after she arrived."

"Gods. Sounds like a rather uncomfortable situation." He paused, and then asked, tone slipping lower and gentler, "Are you alright, Swan?"

"I am."

"Sure, love?"

"I'm sure. Tamara was actually rather sweet."

A pause allowed her to realise the completely truth accompanying Emma's words.

She was fine.

A little startled perhaps, but certainly not overcome with grief from a bitter past. The little angst surrounding Emma made her relax. Her conversation with Tamara had been awkward at first, but after a while it became clear that it was more awkward for the other woman than for Emma, and she excused herself back to work with a friendly farewell.

Fancy that, Emma had thought; absent-mindedly shifting paperwork with a shaking edge to her movement. There was a moment where she feared the sweeping wave of numbness would send her into shock. Instead, shaking the strange meeting away – but being sure to tuck it away for a later date for Ruby, Killian or another – Emma had turned back to work.

"I wish you could be here."

A quiet tension hovered down the line at Killian's words.

"Me too." Emma said quietly. Her smile was small. Torn between the enjoyments of such casual confessions, and the tight, painful constriction of Killian's prescence. A strong, burning presence waiting to envelop her in warmth. For now, she'd have to accept a phone call, or the odd letter or note passed on. It was the best of a painfully distant situation.

"So," She shrugged away the mellow ache and added, what Emma hoped to be, a chipper note to her voice. "How does it all work? The tour, I mean? Do you guys all group together in a big van and tour the country singing folk songs?"

"I think you'll find that was done in the 60s, Swan. We have cars, limos, and oh, even airplanes as well. Who even bothers with vans anymore?"

"I like camper vans." Emma protested.

"Apologies, lass."

The annoyed grunt she gave in reply only made Killian laugh.

"Kodaline's first tour date is in five weeks." He carried on with usual brightness. "June 29th, to be exact. Up in Dublin. So we'll gear up and join them there the week before. Cue rehearsals, track listing and ordering, etcetera…"

"Until then it's practise, practise?"

Another quiet chuckle gave way. "Exactly." He agreed. "I do believe we're scheduled for a bloody radio interview this weekend."

The begrudging tone of his voice didn't escape Emma. Nor did the frustrated mutter that was so unlike Killian she blinked once, then asked, "Take it you're not fond of interviews, Jones?"

"Understatement. My dear, Emma, they're nightmares. Spontaneous nightmares." He added with a sigh. "What if I say too little, or ramble on, or god forbid, what if I curse to the entire nation?"

"That does sound like a nightmare." She agreed carefully but couldn't hide a curving smirk.

Killian Jones, frightened of an interview, Emma thought in wicked amusement. Who would've thought?

A faint rustling and audible voices broke into the background, and Killian's voice was apologetic when he returned to the phone. "Indeed. On that note, I must bid you farewell."

"Regina?"

Killian chuckled. "Regina." He confirmed.

Hiding her disappointment, Emma did her best not to scowl. "At least she gave you a break this time." She said with only a small trace of satire. "Robin's charm must be rubbing off her after all."

"One can only hope. I'll call you when I have the chance."

"I'll be…waiting."

Emma winced. Damn, that sounded pathetic.

She may have admitted on various occasions of her feelings towards Killian, but old habits die hard, and once again, the desire to surround herself in cool preservation was fighting against Emma. It was a never-ending battle of control. To fight and remain open and honest. Not to run and hide behind the past as she'd done for so many years.

"Good." Killian's soft reply relaxed those worries. "I miss you, Swan."

"JONES, I SWEAR TO GOD. IF YOU DO NOT GET OFF THAT PHONE AND GET YOUR ARSE BACK-"

The phone was cut off, leaving Emma with a guilty grin, and an unspoken reply;

"Miss you too, Jones."

5 weeks, 4 days later.

x

"You know…I never thanked you. For before, I mean…"

"Which time are we talking about here?"

Ruby squirmed in her seat, glancing away from the tiny window to shoot Emma a gleeful grin. "The time I set you up with the guy of your dreams? Or are you just generally thanking me for being the greatest friend you could've asked for?" Ruby sighed with dramatic flair as her eyes lit up playfully. "One should keep a list of all one's heroic moments. There have been so many, after all."

An eyebrow rose as Emma hid her amusement. Settling for an eye-roll, she returned Ruby's gaze with a retort of, "Is one done yet?"

"One is."

"Excellent. May I continue?"

Ruby winked. "You may."

Thanking others hadn't ever been in Emma's list of special talents, though she'd been making an effort to as of now. She glanced around the plane, watching as other passengers strapped in and plugged in headphones, or chatted to their fellow partners and friends with delighted laughs. Others looked visibly shaken and stared with vacant expressions in hope that it'd all be over soon.

Noticing a particularly stressed man, roughly in his late forties, she thought; it's a seven hour flight, buddy, and sent a silent prayer his way.

Someone pointedly cleared their throat, and Emma realised she'd completely blanked Ruby and turned back to her friend, who was now raising her own eyebrow. "I believe you were going to thank me?" She said good-naturedly.

"Uh, yes…I was. I wanted to thank you for our date."

Either Ruby feigned innocence or she was seriously not registering Emma's words, and she cocked her head at her friend and frowned. "…date?"

"Oh. The date. Thank – thank you for the date."

Ruby's blank look didn't clear.

"Look," Emma sighed, her patient warring. "I know it was you prompted Killian to take me to the dinner/dance at the hotel, and I wanted to thank you. It was an amazing night. That's it. That's all you're getting." Stubbornness settled into her as she broke eye contact and folded her arms across her chest.

After a few moments, with only the background noise of quiet chattering, Ruby poked her in the ribs. A delighted grin broke out over her face. "You're most welcome."

"You're really enjoying this, aren't you?"

"Damn right, I am. Waiting for gratitude from you is like waiting for this damn plane to hurry up and take flight already-" Ruby's voice lowered to an angry whisper in the same moment a loud whirring from the engines began to grow louder.

Now it was Emma's turn to grin in triumph. "You were saying?"

x

A few hours passed by in quiet solitude.

Ruby was busy watching some sci-fi film involving kick-ass ladies battling in tiny outfits and wielding ludicrously heavy weaponry. It didn't seem to bother Ruby, who was sucked into a whirlwind of action and slow-motion fight scenes, leaving Emma to ponder the events that had led them to their flight.

It had begun with a fairly casual question.

All Mary-Margaret had asked in her usual cheerful manner, was, "Any of you thinking of making summer plans this year?" – And that was it.

An idea.

A spark.

Thoughts turned into queries. Queries turned into secret phone calls, and a surprising new friendship was formed.

Regina wasn't actually as sharp and scary as Emma had feared.

From Killian's amusing tales of Robin's wooing their manager, and her snippy remarks towards him, she'd prepared to fight for the opportunity she'd hoped for. Instead, Regina had agreed easily; even going as far as saying it was a romantic surprise, and one she'd do her best to keep a surprise.

"You're sure?"

"Very. You see, Ms Swan, I always keep a handful of tickets safe in case of emergencies. Consider this a…relationship emergency, and I'll be certain I can secure you, and a friend, front row tickets as well as backstage passes."

Unable to conceal how pleased she was, Emma beamed happily and sent gratitude down the phone. "I can't thank you enough, Ms Mills. Really, it's very kind of you."

"It's not a problem, dear." Regina said warmly. "I want the best for my label, and my bands, of course, and quite often, I've seen love does wonders for first performances. Someone tell that to the Robin, the idiot…"

Emma grinned into the phone. "Love troubles, Ms Mills?"

"Many musicians think they're god's gift to women. Robin is no different." Regina muttered, though from personal experience, Emma felt it was strained criticism; shielding emotion elsewhere. "Even if he seems…somewhat charming….they're all the same. All wanting a quick fling with the boss. Never mind. I can hold my ground."

She had a feeling that Regina's frustration was rooted in pride, not anger, but decided to press no further. After all, there only so far one could point out the obvious.

When you want to see it, you will.

Instead, Emma felt it appropriate to head off back to work with a passing remark of, "Good luck with that one."

"It's not I who'll be needing luck, my dear." Regina's voice dropped low with a victorious laugh. "You're dating Killian Jones."

And that was it.

All settled with a concert ticket booked later that month, Emma invited Ruby – deciding it was only fair that she invite the friend who set everything up – and the two began preparing flights, hotels; all whilst keeping it a secret from Killian and the band.

This was even more difficult now that Ruby had extended her own…friendship.

"Excited to meet Victor then?"

"Perhaps."

Ruby's answering shrug didn't fool Emma. The two had been chatting on the phone every while and again, and Emma had noticed her friend's flushed cheeks and a little-too-loud laughter echoing from the lounge, or bedroom, every now and then. As the weeks had grown closer to the concert, Emma was certain they'd leave Ireland with more than just one happy musician.

"But," Taking the opportunity to turn the tables around, Ruby paused whatever crappy chick flick she'd clicked on and leaned on her elbow to smirk across. "Let's talk about you and Killian though."

"Nice try." She turned her head away with an eye-roll. Ignoring Ruby's quiet begging, she watched the gentle dipping of the plane isle, lost in its quiet movement lulling her into a peaceful state of rest.

"-Have you considered what's going to happen after the tour?"

That caught Emma's attention.

She reluctantly turned back to Ruby with a sigh, careful to avoid showing Ruby that she'd won the game just yet.

"What about it?" She asked.

"Well, have you discussed it? Is Killian staying in Ireland, or coming over here? Or…are you staying with him? These are not conversations you can just avoid, sweet cherub. Consider the distance a pretty huge impact on any relationship-"

Emma narrowed her eyes. "Are you trying to scare me? Because it's working." Her teeth grounded together to avoid losing her cool in the middle of a long air-borne journey. She was stuck with her friend for a few more hours; there was no use in making it uncomfortable.

If she was perfectly honest, Ruby's words frightened, not angered, her.

There were moments of fear at least every week or so. Times when Emma would wonder whether the simplest of complications would lead to the end of everything good and new. Would an argument lead to the end of them? The thought of Killian disappearing from her life tightened Emma's gut, wrenching and pulling it with taunting teeth.

"Crap, no. Of course not..." Ruby looked crestfallen, her smile no longer visible. "Oh, Emma, I'm sorry. I was only trying to…well; make sure you'd considered it. That's all. I didn't mean for you to…"

"Freak out?"

Ruby grimaced, her expression now apologetic. "Oh, Jesus." She groaned as though she'd been injured, and Emma felt a little guilty that she'd perhaps over-reacted too. "Am I a terrible friend?"

"No." Placing a comforting hand over her friend's arm, Emma found the next words come out with a natural softness. "You're my best friend."

There was another pause as Ruby returned her smile warmly. The corners of her lips, adorned in their usual brilliant shade of red, twitched mischievously. "Don't start getting mushy on me, Emma Swan."

Emma shook her head fondly. "Wouldn't dream of it."

"As much as I love you, I think I love this film more. Would you mind if I…?"

"Go ahead. I'm in need of some rest anyway."

With that, Emma closed her eyes, reclined the seat a little way, and relaxed into sleep.

x

The Academy was quick and easy to locate.

Just follow the screaming fans and loud noise, Emma thought.

She quickly felt the need to loop her arm through Ruby's to keep together amidst the bustling crowd of people.

A large building grew nearer, gracefully looming over in an elegant arched roof high above and displaying the concert banner in bright splashes of reds, blues and greens. Surrounded by so many eager fans shot excitement across Emma's body. She'd not been to a concert before, and was soaking up the electric atmosphere with wide eyes and a tight grip on her friend.

She leaned across and gestured Ruby towards the already swarming group of gatherers near the entrance.

"Should we hurry up and queue? I'm worried-"

Cut off by another burst of cheers from a group passing by, Ruby leaned in closer and raised her voice to a yell. "CONCERT RULE NUMBER ONE: YOU HAVE TO SHOUT. LIKE THIS. OR I CAN'T HEAR ANYTHING YOU'RE SAYING."

"DO WE QUEUE WITH THE OTHERS?"

Ruby shook her head and laughed as though she'd heard a wonderful joke. "WE DO NOT FRATINISE WITH THE PEASANTS, EMMA. YOU'RE DATING THE LEAD SINGER, REMEMBER?" She tugged her closer through the crowds, yelling as to be heard over the growing noise. "FOLLOW ME, AND WATCH AND LEARN."

Once they reached the beginning of the queue, Emma quickly trailed Ruby through to a small line, where guests were flashing pieces of papers and tickets towards a tall, muscular man, who then waved them through with a curt nod.

The bouncer turned to Ruby, who revealed their front row passes with a dazzling smile that would've put the sun to shame.

"Emma Swan and Ruby Lucas." She announced with pride. "Dating and soon-to-be dating the lead singer and the guitarist. May we pass, please?" She smiled so sweetly that even the quiet, unmoving guard who opened the door returned her smile as they passed through and into the venue.

When they were inside, Emma nudged Ruby with her elbow. "Soon-to-be-dating, huh?" She threw a suggestive look towards her roommate, who was far too busy scanning the crowd to notice.

Ruby spun around after a few moments and winked. "Confidence is sexy."

She couldn't argue with that, and silently sent Victor all the luck he'd need. It looked as though the guitarist was about to feel the full force of Ruby Lucas. Judging from what she'd heard over phone calls alone, Emma doubted that the flirtation wouldn't be recuperated.

After thoughts of her friend's romance faded, her mind returned to her own reasons with a sharp, delighted reminder.

Killian.

He's here…and close.

The realisation that she was actually here, in Ireland, waiting to see Killian on-stage, suddenly hit her with force. She'd been so completely wrapped up in organisation that she hadn't considered the negatives. What if the surprise backfired?

Loose strands of blonde hair rested over her shoulder, and she carefully tilted her head forwards to hide amidst them; blocking away the crowds, and noise and cheerful bubbles of laughter scattered around the large room. The standing area was almost full already, and it took little movement to guess that the many rows of seats in the floor above were also claimed.

Emma tugged her jacket tighter around her. Anxiety was beginning to ice the excited warmth that she'd previously swum into. Growing colder in fear-

"Hey," Ruby's hand waved in-front of her face. "Are you okay? You've gone all pale."

"Great." She mumbled, using the opportunity of buying the first round of drinks as an excuse to avoid any conversation. When she'd returned with their usual – vodka tonic for Ruby, and Rum and coke for Emma – unfortunately Ruby's persistence hadn't disappeared.

Taking a slow sip from the glass, she looked at her with a flickering gaze searching for a problem.

"Sure you're okay?" Ruby asked carefully.

Emma nodded. "Just a little nervous, that's all. Nothing I can't handle."

Noticing a handful of tables, they found a small one in the corner and claimed it before another large group arrived. As she sat, Ruby eyed Emma with a pleased grin. "Well, you look great, that's for sure."

That directed her attention elsewhere. Ruby had been adamant in having a part to play in her outfit, and they'd settled on a tight, black dress that sat just above the knees accompanied by Emma's favourite burgundy leather jacket slinked over her shoulders. A little eyeliner and lipstick later and she had been deemed concert-ready.

Ruby's eyes twinkled. "Killian's going to have a heart attack on stage."

Oh, hell.

"Seriously? Come on. Why would you say that?" Emma scolded and took a larger gulp of her drink. "Please. No heart attacks or accidents. Just…totally not funny."

A hand flew to her friend's lips as she tried, and failed, to stifle another laugh. She waved a hand in apology when Emma glared. "Sorry. You're adorable when you're nervous."

"Shut it, Ruby."

"See? How cute."

Emma relapsed into quiet grumbles after that.

After another few drinks, they debated going backstage before the concert – Ruby seemed particularly eager to meet and greet the band – but the room was pressed full of bodies, standing and sitting, so they decided to wait till after the set. She didn't want anything ruining Killian, and the band's first official performance.

"Are you…nervous?" Ruby implored with a teasing look; watching her friend writhe her hands together for the thousandth time that minute.

"I'm nervous for them." She admitted. It was only a half-lie. At least half of her worries were directed towards the band, though her confidence in their unity was stronger than any anxieties. However, they weren't strong enough to overthrow her personal cautions.

"You could try reciting Greek mythology characters?" Ruby offered slyly. When Emma didn't reply, she patted her hand warmly and added, "Alright, well let me know if you need some air-"

"HELLO, DUBLIN!"

The responsive erupt of cheers was wonderfully loud.

"Emma, quick!" Ruby pulled her away from the table to grab a standing view. "Get your gorgeous ass over here."

The pair quickly clambered for a better view, holding up their tickets to slip past the barrier.

Closer to the front, Emma's fears began to spark once again. Sweat and heat built up across her forearms and neck. As it began sticking the leather jacket to her skin, she quickly shrugged it off with a slight tremble in her hands and placed it along the barrier. They were close, but not completely along the front.

Thank god. If he sees me…

The announcer onstage, a dark-haired woman with a wide grin and dark curls – waved at the crowd. She held up her microphone and addressed the crowd loudly. "ARE YOU GUYS READY?"

Definitely not.

However a thousand cheers and screams disagreed with Emma and she felt a sense of beaming pride as she looked back and saw the overcrowded room and eager stream of people.

The presenter cast a quick look to the side, nodded once, and then spoke to the crowd again. "Our opening act is a new band that has only just hit the scene this year! You guys love them already –"

She was cut off by a dozen choruses of happy shouts, and Emma's warm pride began to push aside any worries.

"And so, here for their exclusive debut, please give a warm Dublin welcome, to The Untitled!"

This is it.

Her eyes closed, just for a moment, as a quiet anticipation washed over the crowd for a single heartbeat. The moment between waiting, and arriving. Emma sent a prayer, and a good luck to her boys – hell, I did not just call them my boys – and opened her eyes alongside a crescendo of passionate screams and cheers.

Four young men walked onto the stage, and their presence was instant.

Waving and grinning like schoolboys, they appeared with a natural charm and purpose that felt comfortable to watch. She offered a quick look as David took his place behind the drums. He began warming up with a quick beat, sending the crowd into another loud roar as Robin and Victor strapped on their guitars at opposite ends of the stage; grinning at one another in a state of wonderstruck delight.

She was searching, still waiting for him.

Ruby cupped her hands around her mouth to yell, but Emma quickly bumped her shoulder and said, loudly, "YOU PROMISED!"

She rolled her eyes but protested no further, turning back to the stage. They'd both quickly been swept into concert-madness and energy, and found themselves cheering and clapping alongside everyone else.

Come on, Jones.

And finally, just when the crowd seemed to settle for a moment, Killian walked – or more so, sauntered – onto the stage with a grin that Emma itched to wipe off with a searing kiss. There was no ounce of arrogance in his walk, but a confidence; a purpose, to play good music with good people, to a good crowd.

Looking handsome as usual, Jones, she thought admirably, eyeing Killian up with a shameful lack of subtly. Dressed in a black leather pants – tight, a cheeky part of her added slyly; oh, so tight… - that clung to his form, he was also adorned in a dark navy shirt, rolled up at the sleeves to reveal muscular forearms.

She noticed another addition with a smirk.

Damn him. The bastard's wearing braces.

With a quick careful movement, Killian pulled at the straps, casting his eyes over the cheering crowd with a wicked grin, and damn it, he knows exactly what he's doing.

The heat flushing Emma's cheeks was only partially due to the warmth of dancing bodies pressed closer and closer, eager to get to the front. There was no way she'd survive eye contact, so she hid behind taller gatherers and kept an eye on Ruby a few feet away.

Robin leaned into his microphone and shouted, "GOOD EVENING, DUBLIN!"

An explosion of cheers greeted him.

"Whoa, let's see if we can keep that energy up! It's an honour for us to be able to play for you folk tonight." Robin adjusted his guitar strap and smiled again. "We're The Untitled. Are you ready for a good night?"

Careful eyes still on Killian, Emma watched as he looked across the crowd – thankfully, roaming towards the back – and enjoyed his look of complete wonder and peace. It smoothed his expression and added a sweet youth to his bright eyes. She hoped it was everything he'd wanted and more.

A grin tugged at his lips as he took his place center-stage and spoke to the crowd. "Hi, guys. It's great to be back in a place that inspired all of us. We'll do our best to make sure you all have a fantastic time!"

Emma felt herself clapping and shouting just like all the other over-excited gatherers. He spoke confidently, and she felt drawn into Killian's voice as though it were a song without instruments. A guidance pulling her towards him.

He paused, waiting for the crowd to die down a little, and then exchanging looks with the others, nodded once and added, "So, we're going to kick off with a cover that I think you'll all recognise. How'd you all feel about Jimi Hendrix?"

The answering screams were enough to widen his grin. "Excellent. This is 'All along the Watchtower'. Enjoy."

Simply watching Killian on-stage was as good as any drug. It was a mixture of excitement, passion and heat, but also a calm peace swirling around inside her mind. He moved like a wind, whipping up a storm of intensity wherever he looked.

And then he began to sing, and Emma fell a little more.

The band was a confident unit.

They listened to each other and kept careful checks on timing and synchronicity, and the crowd felt at ease within seconds. But when Killian began to sing, the crowd swept into another moment; suspended in a tiny pocket of timed enjoyment. A clear passion was evident in Killian's voice, and the changing expressions; a small smile, closed eyes creating unknown images of inspiration.

Emma sung and swayed along with the others; an arm looped happily around Ruby's waist as the pair felt the time pass by with each song. They played a mixed set. A few acoustics in-between indie-folk tunes and the odd classic rock cover also.

Half an hour passed, and then another and it was almost time to announce Kodaline. The crowd protested and cried, "ENCORE, ENCORE, ENCORE!" and so the band grinned and played one more song, and then another.

"Alright, guys, we really do have to go after one final song- no more! We're leaving. That's it. We're done. We love you, really, we do, but we really have to pack up…"

Killian laughed into the microphone and Emma's heart warmed to the sound. He looked towards the front and she ducked her head quickly, lamely pretending to tie a shoe without laces. The amused look Ruby shot her was also ignored.

"Anyway, we're going to play one final song. It's off our debut album, and, well…I'd like to dedicate it to someone very special." He hesitated, and the bob of his throat as he swallowed was clear with a sudden emotion. The crowd recognised it too, and stilled to a listening silence; hanging on every word, just like she was.

When he looked up, Emma noticed not only the small smile curving at Killian's lips, but the wistful look of distant hope in his green eyes. His voice was now quiet, "She's uh…not actually here right now, but gods, I wished she was."

Killian's eyes traced the crowd once again, and her breath hitched in anticipation. He fixed on a quiet spot near the back before looking down and finished his dedication– "This one's for you, Swan. It's…called Anchors and Shipwrecks. I hope you like it."

Oh.

Romantic didn't even begin to cover the finished song.

Once, it had been a draft; a beginning. A verse or two. Now the song had grown into a beautiful masterpiece of emotion and gentleness. The soft melody was exactly as it had been before. When he'd played it over the phones all those months ago and the chorus was the same;

I anchored my heart to the lonely shore,

In hope that it will always return.

But a lady with green eyes and a most peculiar soul,

Taught me to love, and with love, i now yearn.

My heart was once anchored,

Now it floats in the sea towards her.

But a final two lines had been added, and although Emma's eyes were already clouded with prickling tears, the closing lyrics sent a handful streaming down her cheeks;

Our hearts were once anchored disasters,

And now her heart belongs to me, and mine; to hers.

Just before he finished, Killian looked out over the crowd, and Emma hid once more; tears blurring her gaze as she smiled in a moment of unashamed happiness. Still, he didn't catch her, and after another few seconds, he looked back at the other guys with a pleased smile that they all returned in joint victory; the cheers of the crowd providing their own closing soundtrack.

They jogged off stage with reluctance from both the band, and the crowd, but it was clear from their grins that this was all they'd ever hoped for. David pulled Killian into a one-armed hug as they left, and Victor and Robin were nudging and shouting loudly to each other in a state of Christmas morning spirit.

"Weren't they amazing?" Ruby yelled, interrupting Emma's haze and pulling her back into the hot, sweaty mess of swaying bodies and cheers. "I knew they were good, but wow!"

Emma noticed the door backstage, eyeing it intently. After a beat, Ruby followed her gaze. A smirk pulled at her scarlet lips as she matched Emma's eagerness with a quick wink. "Are you ready?" She shouted.

Surprise time.

"Let's go."

It took a handful of minutes to physically force themselves to the door, at which point the backstage bouncers took extra careful looks at their passes – much to Emma's impatient sigh – and she tapped her foot against the floorboards as they checked I.D before allowing them to pass through.

My boyfriend is Killian Jones, damn you, she wanted to snap, but realised how immature that sounded, even to her own ears, and remained quiet.

They wound past half a dozen rooms with various stage productions and crew member titles stapled onto the doors with clearly marked labels. They, in fact, found Kodaline's dressing room before they found the band they were really eager to see.

"I think we're lost…"

"How the hell can we be lost? It's a backstage set-up, not a labyrinth-"

"Ah ha!"

The upcoming door read;

Room no.7: The Untitled.

Without even knocking, Emma pushed past Ruby and swung open the door; searching the room, looking, scanning off their names…

David, Victor…Robin…

"Seriously? Where the hell is he?"

Even Regina was there.

But not Killian.

The rest of the band was standing in a loose circle. Her outburst and sudden arrival startled them for a moment, and then they all cheered and welcomed the pair in with open arms and charming hospitality.

"Emma! Come here!" Robin reached and tugged her into a hug. "It's nice to finally meet you too, sweetheart!"

"Sorry…" She drew back with a guilty smile but found only a warm smile in return on his handsome face. Robin was tall, not as tall as Killian, with a slight stubble and an old-fashioned charm that made her feel at ease.

Good luck resisting this one, Regina, she thought dryly.

Greeting all the others, she turned to Victor, but saw he was already preoccupied with Ruby; the two standing close and smiling in a sickening display of open flirtation. His arm was around her waist, with hers grasping his forearm.

Nice work, Ruby.

After all the introductions and small talk drifted into individual groups, Emma turned to David – who was also friendly and approachable, with short, light cropped hair and a smile warm enough to melt even the iciest of hearts – and tried to appear casual in her questioning. "I, uh…don't mean to be rude, but-"

"He went to get some air." David finished with a smile. He carefully took her refilled glass and gestured to the door. "You'll find him outside somewhere."

"Thanks, David."

He waved a dismissive hand. "Anything for a friend. Now go, find the idiot."

"Will do." Emma grinned, and quickly walked back out the door with a heart that was beginning to thump and beat away in revived anticipation.

She was careful to click the door behind her. Unsure of whether to simply walk around in vain hope, or to ask someone to track him down, Emma turned her back to the door, and-

"Swan?"

A heartbeat froze mid-beat.

Amusement was clear in his voice, and even without needing to see his face, she knew Killian was smiling with that one-sided, half-smile that she adored.

She turned around fully and there he was.

"It is you! I knew it was you."

At least ten or eleven feet away, Killian stood halfway down the corridor, staring down the space that separated them with a crushing desire burned into his eyes that mirrored her own.

"Surprise." She managed weakly.

Seeing him in person always did…something to her.

Every touch, or anticipated touch, awoke buried affection inside her. It spun inside Emma's mind with an enchanted fury. A peaceful storm. The way he held her gaze was enough to send her running, but it was the first step that settled her into motion.

A lingering pause broke, and then Killian was rushing towards her, and oh – his arms were tight around her waist, hesitating as they brushed over her hips and pulled Emma closer. His eyes were next; burning blue and electric sparking between their gazes. Locked in a delicious, frozen heat.

She moved first, and then his head lowered and his lips were on hers; where they belonged.

At first gentle, they stayed pressed together.

Her arms came up around Killian's neck as it deepened; refusing to budge until he applied a pressure that sent shivers dancing along every nerve and bare skin. Everything was fire; desire and warmth and a perfect heat. Not too strong or dangerous, but comfortable, safe, with a sprinkle of adventure and careful kick.

Emma pulled back, but only their lips parted. Foreheads leaned in, her eyes closed, and she knew Killian was mirroring her too; foreheads pressed gently against the other's in a moment of peace and belonging. Breathless and delighted, they let a little time pass before they spoke.

She surprised herself by speaking first. "Hi…"

"Hi, love." He replied softly. There was laughter in his voice. Quiet, pleased laughter that was a musical remedy to Emma's anxieties.

"I knew you were there. Tonight, I can't explain it, but…I felt you were near."

Somewhere beneath happiness and love, Emma found it within her range to produce a teasing quip. "Huh. Maybe you're physic, Jones."

He feigned surprise. "Oh dear, is it too late to change careers?"

They shared a quiet laugh as Emma tugged at his collar between her fingertips. It was quiet moments like this that made everything worthwhile. "Sorry I lied," She began again. "But I…I wanted it to be a surprise. Forgive me?"

Killian tilted her chin up between his hand and his answering smile was enough to bury the doubt. "Don't apologise, love. This is the best surprise by far."

"Well, now we're even."

A moment's confusion pushed Killian's eyebrow up.

"New York, 'meet me at the docks', you showed up out of the blue." She clarified with a laugh. It seemed so long ago now. "Remember?"

His expression cleared, relaxing into a grin once more. "Ah, I see." He paused again, hand lifting up to brush a strand of hair away from Emma's eyes so he could look at her carefully. Taking his time was something she'd never enjoyed before meeting Killian, but now the intensity was welcome. A moment passed quietly, and then he spoke softly, "I've missed you, Emma."

"Oh?"

She thought of replying with another quip, or teasing remark, but then she looked up and felt it wash away; leaving behind only joy over their reunion. "Good." She murmured, nuzzling into Killian's neck as his hands snaked around her waist again.

His lips grazed her ear with a tingling sensation when he spoke. "Now, I do believe we have people expecting us." Low and suggestive, Killian was far from eager to leave. He looked back at her and heat flashed between their eyes.

Finally, Emma offered, "One more minute then?"

"We could do that,"

Killian took a step closer so that his feet were angled in-between hers as though they'd be married years and years and no longer cared for even the slightest of distances.

"Or, I could come up with a few more…enjoyable activities…?"

Hell.

"What'd you have it mind, Jones?"

Eyes met, grins widened, and Emma was wrecked already.

"Let's get out of here."

x

An hour later, they were happily tangled in-between soft bed sheets in the hotel across the street. Stumbling and rushing into a quickly rented room for the night, Emma and Killian had been a beautiful mess of impatience and taking it slow, and desperation to be close.

Hands were entwined; limbs completely joined together as one mind, soul and body. Sure, nothing was perfect. The beauty was learning to love flaws as part of the complex package that came with the other.

Afterwards, they stayed together, quiet apart from the occasional embrace, or gentle kiss, sometimes shifting the covers higher or lower.

Emma traced a small circle around Killian's torso, enjoying the soft vulnerability of bare skin. "You were right." She said after a few minutes passed peacefully.

He shifted to look at her with a pleased look of smug afterglow. "I'm sure I was, but remind me again; what of?"

"This was a far more enjoyable activity."

His smugness grew into a relaxed smile as he slowly reached for her and pulled Emma against him so that they now faced each other. "Told you to trust me, Swan." The only ounce of emotion in his voice was love. Complete, unconditional love. "Have I ever let you done?"

"No…never." She admitted truthfully after a moment. Still getting used to the softness of words that love allowed her to explore, Emma shifted closer and dared herself further. "And I love you for it, Killian."

He didn't speak again for a moment, simply watching her with careful eyes, as though fearful to break the moment apart with a wrong word.

What Killian was unaware of was Emma's own fear, and when two people fear the same fears, nothing can't be done to overcome them; together.

"Glad to hear it." He said quietly, and brushed his lips to her forehead before lowering down to meet her lips halfway; warm and waiting for him. "Because I do too. Love you. He cleared his throat, ridding of any thick emotion that may be mistaken for hesitation. "I love you, Emma." He spoke firmly this time. "There'll never be another for me."

They kissed again, and Emma tilted her head and slowly extended her neck to wait for the last moment to pull away. She sighed as a round of cheers outside broke the silence. "We should get back to the celebration, you know…"

"You're right. We ought to."

"Or…?"

"Or." Killian repeated huskily, carefully lowering himself over her; hovering, waiting for her answer before he met her lips again.

She looked up at him, up at the handsome man - sometime irritating, and stubborn, but definitely worth every fight – waiting for her to say yes, and join him, and took a moment. This was still fairly new. Hell, it was new. Yet at the same time it felt permanent and forever, and Emma was sure there was no one else for her either.

"No one else but you, Jones."

He smirked. "Is that your answer?"

"Yes." She said in gentle firmness. "That's my answer."

"Excellent."

Emma laughed as he rolled her over so that she was on top. Their legs became a tangled puzzle ready to be put together, and Killian looked up at her with eyes just as bright and hopeful as hers. This was it. Right here. A moment worth capturing and remembering. For all the moments to come, he was hers. She was his. They belonged to themselves, but also to each other.

And that would always remain.

This was the epilogue; a definite ending, however, I'm certain that I'll be doing one-shots in a couple of weeks, when I get the time. Until then, no promises.

Hope you enjoyed it :)

One more question; what one-shots would you be interested in? General life, or significant moments/stepping stones?