Well, all good things must come to an end :[ and this story has been so fun to write! I know I started to drag my feet on these last few chapters, but this version of Killian and Emma is a hard one to let go haha. There's lots of flashbacks in this chapter and they are all in italics (just FYI in case that's not totally clear). Thank you SO much for reading and supporting this story - you're all awesome! So here it is and I hope it wraps things up adequately! As always, all rights and characters belong to the creators of OUAT.
"Swan, I think you're overthinking the whole thing," he decided, raising his eyebrows in slight protest. "They're just flowers."
It was such a masculine thing to say - and he knew it. Emma narrowed her eyes at him just enough to prove her point - that this was their wedding and the flowers were important. After all, they'd only get to do this once. She wanted it to be everything she pictured from the moment she pondered marrying this man. Now if she could just figure out exactly what that picture was supposed to look like, this selection process might be easier.
"Okay, Mr. Nonchalant," Emma taunted, nudging his ribs and he slung an arm around her waist. "You pick then."
"Love, I am a perceptive enough man to know-" he replied, punctuating his argument with a kiss to her cheek. "-that the sort of challenge you are suggesting rarely ends well for me."
She laughed, slightly amused at his rather wise resistance. This really shouldn't be so difficult. There were so many options available and the vast majority of them were beautiful. There just wasn't a variety that jumped out at her. Nothing she'd seen had been the perfect fit - at least not yet.
They wandered through the greenhouse, her arm looped comfortably through his as she bent down to take in the scent of the blossoms that intrigued her. Roses. Tulips. Peonies. Gardenias. Emma sighed softly, leaning her head on his shoulder in brief frustration. He chuckled at her annoyed posture, turning his head to place a kiss against the top of her head.
"Don't worry, Swan," he assured her, pulling her close as they walked. "We'll find them."
She had to give him credit. Killian had always been extraordinarily patient with her and this day was no exception. There weren't many men who would have trailed after her while she searched for the perfect paper for invitations or tasted various cake samples at the bakery on main street. He'd been relatively great through much of the process, but after she paraded them to several different possible reception venues, he'd been rather relieved to hear that Mary Margaret had taken a few days off to help tie up some of the wedding details. Emma hadn't begrudged him for it in the least - the poor guy could only adjust his opinion so many times on what type of chairs would be best for the ceremony.
"Okay," he began, testing his positivity. "Maybe we should ask Belle what's in season-"
Killian paused, biting his lip gently as Emma looked up at him. She placed a questioning hand on his arm and he smiled wide, reaching to interlock his fingers with hers as he pulled her along. He had that glint in his eye - the happy, anticipatory one. Killian Jones excited about flowers - the thought made her grin wildly.
"Swan," he said with a curious smirk, stopping them in front of a row of wood planters. "What about these?"
Emma gazed at the tall, slender stems and the white petals that were scattered with pinks and purples. The scent lingering was fragrant and floral in a way that could come from only the freshest of blossoms. They were beautiful - and her mind reeled for a moment as she tried to recall the name of the flowers filling her view.
"Lilies, love," he reminded her. "Stargazer lilies."
Emma smiled unknowingly. She narrowed her eyes slightly, trying to will the memory back into her head. She'd seen them before somewhere - in an instance implicating the smirking man next to her. He pulled her close and kissed her softly. Yeah, those bright blue eyes were all too clever.
"Bloody hell, you were stubborn, Swan," he laughed, allowing his whisper to tickle her ear. "I believe you gave a whole new meaning to vying for a woman's affections."
Emma knew it was true, but the statement caused her head to turn with the past. She finally located what she was searching for and the instance from their history quickly put a smile on her face.
"No, you were just persistent," she replied with a taunting glance. "I'd say maybe too persistent, but obviously, it worked out okay in my favor."
"Just okay, huh?"
Emma let out somewhat of a giggle when he pinched her side. The way he captured her lips with that subtle hand at her jaw reinforced the fact that Killian's relentless pursuit in winning her heart worked out much better that 'just okay'.
"I remember you sending the flowers to my office," she divulged, pursing her lips in thought. "But which date or not date or attempt at a date was this?"
"Very funny, love," he smirked before turning his eyes back to the flowers. "I sent you a rather beautiful bunch of these after our first date - the first real date. It was the one where I took you to that little Italian place by the water."
"Ah, that's right," Emma grinned, leaning her head on his shoulder. "But why these?"
"I thought that would be rather obvious, Swan. I mean it took distracting you with a meteor shower to get you to agree to that date in the first place. I guess I consider it the beginning of the beginning."
"But still...how-"
It took only a fraction of a second for Emma to cut off her own questioning. Of course - stars and stargazer lilies. This man never ceased to make her heart flutter.
"I think these will be perfect, Killian."
He grinned, his eyes burrowing into hers in a way that caused everything around them to disappear. Killian had always had that uncanny ability of making feeling like the only other person in his world. Emma would gladly spend the rest of her days swimming through that crystal blue stare.
"Oh, Emma - Killian," the florist's daughter, Belle, said as she appeared at their sides. "How's it going over here? Are you finding what you need?"
Emma smiled with a small nod, an answering gesture that prompted victory to spread over his expression. It was a wonder really - she'd spent hours sifting through wedding magazines in search of so many of their wedding details, but in less than hour, Killian had helped her decide on the one that had been giving her the most trouble.
"Yeah," Killian sighed, glancing back down at Emma with certainty. "I think we found exactly what we're looking for."
Emma woke from the memory masquerading as a dream with a start, her eyes fluttering open to surroundings she wasn't particularly fond of. She blinked several times, focusing her vision as she took in the plain walls and dimmed light. The bed she was laying in was strangely uncomfortable and she shifted around with a wince as she remembered where she was. Storybrooke General Hospital. Good hell - again?
"You're really into this aren't you, love?"
His voice was warm and teasing in a way she truly needed to hear. Emma's view was quickly filled with the man leaning in the doorway. That dark hair looked quite disheveled - almost as if he'd had a rough time catching some if any sleep at all the night before. His eyes were a relieved yet lazy blue and he yawned a bit helplessly as he walked toward the bed. She had to smirk at the way he strolled to her, pulling the chair near the monitor a bit closer and bending to kiss her forehead.
"You know, Swan," Killian began, clearly trying to keep her mind off their current location. "This place doesn't have a loyalty program of any kind. They aren't exactly handing out frequent flier miles or anything so I honestly don't see why we're so insistent on stopping in so often."
Emma laughed softly, finding his hand and locking his fingers with hers. He grinned at the gesture and pressed their palms together, lifting her grasp to his lips in a comforting kiss. Her brain sorted through things quickly as she observed his anxious posture and grateful eyes. It didn't take her long to piece things together or for anticipation to flow through her nerves.
"How's the baby?"
"Our daughter is great," Killian nodded, his demeanor brightening at the reason they were there. "Hopefully ready to meet us. How are you, love?"
"I'm okay," Emma sighed, the thought of pink crossing her mind as she leaned back against the pillow. "Although I can't say I like being here."
"The feeling is quite mutual - I can assure you of that," he replied with a slight laugh. "I am much more approving of the reason for being back in this place though."
"Yeah," she said quietly. "I suppose I am too."
She'd made it to just over thirty seven weeks flawlessly - well, as flawlessly at you could while being pregnant during the hottest Storybrooke summer either of them could remember. Killian had doted on her endlessly and there were times when she had to all but shove him out the door so he'd go to work. She'd pried baby books from his adamant grip multiple times, not needing any more reasons for him to fret or worry about her. It did amaze Emma how much things had changed since she had Liam, but they'd done this before and they'd be okay. If Emma was sure of anything, it was that she and Killian could find their way through anything. She just liked to hear that - and in this case, she needed to hear it.
"Emma," his voice said softly. "I can tell that you're feeling uneasy. Talk to me?"
She had to smile at his analysis and even more so at his tone. The way he used her first name in such a gentle manner had quite the contrast to the taunting that usually went back and forth between them. She loved the simple honesty in his eyes during moments like this one.
"I'm just nervous I guess," she admitted. "We didn't go through all of this with Liam. It's just a little more stressful than I recall."
Liam had been right on time and the whole process had been rather fast. This time, things had been more cautious and concerning - especially since this baby had decided to come early. Emma and Killian had spent the night in the hospital while a few tests confirmed that the baby would be healthy enough to be delivered ahead of schedule. They'd finally received the green light and Dr. Whale had slated to have Emma induced the next morning. It was a wonder she'd slept at all, but Killian's drowsy gaze told her he hadn't had much luck in that department. She knew he'd probably been keeping watch over her - just like she'd done with him when he was the one in the hospital bed.
"That it is," Killian agreed, tentatively reaching to place a hand on her stomach. "But Swan - we've got this. You, Emma Jones, are the strongest and most resilient person I've ever known. I know you can do this and I will be right here. I'll always be right here."
Her heart raced a little as he mimicked her words from the eve of his first nightmare. She'd meant every single syllable of that promise and as his eyes locked on hers with the purest sincerity, she knew his intention was as true as hers had been. There was something about that knowledge and those words that put her at the utmost ease - just like they always had.
"Besides, love," he quipped, his smile playful and excited. "Who else is going to teach our little girl how to be so tough? Her big brother?"
Emma laughed at that, recalling how thrilled Liam was about the whole situation. Their little boy rivaled his father fairly when it came to who was the most elated about the baby. As her mind turned, Emma's heart raced as she remembered when they'd told him.
"A baby? Like...a real baby?"
"Yes, my boy," Killian chuckled. "A real baby - but not until about October."
"That's not for a while," Liam commented, gazing upward like he did when he was deep in thought. "Why does it take so long?"
Killian cleared his throat and turned his eyes to Emma, begging her to take this one. She laughed and propped her elbows on the table as she searched for the appropriate explanation.
"Well, babies have to grow and become healthy," she said cautiously. "It does take a while, but the nice thing about that is it will give us time to get ready for your little brother or sister."
"I guess that's probably smart," Liam decided, his eyes lighting up a bit as he glanced at his parents. "Does this mean I get to be a big brother?"
"It does," Killian grinned. "What do you think about that?"
They watched the wheels turn in his head, both of them equally amazed at their son's processing skills. Liam was so rational - the kind of kid who constantly liked to make sense of things. When the start of a smile started to cross his face, Emma felt a weight drop off her shoulders.
"I think I might like that job," the little boy smiled, straightening up almost as if to appear taller. "It sounds important."
"It's very important, buddy," Emma nodded. "But that's why we know you'll be so good at it - we trust you. You're going to be a big part of the baby's life too, Liam."
The way his face split into such an animated grin was much more perfect than any reaction they could have hoped for. Killian winked subtly at Emma, clearly just as happy that the conversation had turned out so well.
"So are we getting a girl?"
Emma turned in the direction of Liam's question, her eyebrows knitting together in interest. He looked so nonchalant that it was hard to determine why he'd ask such a thing.
"We don't actually know yet," Killian offered. "Why do you ask, little man?"
"Well, you already have a boy - me," he explained, pointing to himself. "So I think now we should get a girl."
Emma bit her lip, trying to stifle her amusement. Killian scratched behind his ear with laugh as Liam arched his eyebrows. This kid would never cease to entertain them. As the rest of their morning routine unfolded, Emma had to wonder if Liam's logic would win out. If anyone could make sense of random, it was that little boy - and allowing him to be a big brother made more sense than anything in the world.
God, he looked ridiculous. Killian shook his head with a smile, realizing that looking like a fool in hospital scrubs wasn't important at all. No, the crucial fact was that Emma needed him - and their baby needed them. He twisted the strings of his surgical mask around his fingers as he tried to assuage the hint of fear in the back of his mind. They were going to be okay. Their baby was going to be fine - Killian had spent hours trying to turn that statement into a fact.
The actual facts were that Dr. Whale had induced Emma nearly twenty four hours ago and they were still waiting to meet their little girl. It was ironic really - they'd come in to the hospital with Emma in preterm labor and now they were having a hell of a time getting things to move along. Killian smiled slightly at the thought of his daughter being stubborn. A bit like her mother, he mused. He washed his hands quickly and glanced down at his ridiculous hospital green attire. Totally worth it, he decided.
He rounded the corner to where she was waiting, his soul sinking just a bit at her shaken expression. Emma had been tense about having the baby early right from the beginning and Killian knew her emotions were intensified when they'd opted to change the plan once again. He'd left it up to her ultimately, but honestly, Killian had been relieved with her choice. Emma had fought through all sorts of pain for much longer than she should've had to. If a c-section was their safest route, he hoped she'd take it. When she relented, he had let out a deep breath he didn't realize he'd been holding. Yet now as he watched her from a short distance, he saw it in her features - a lingering doubt. We better get rid of that, he resolved silently.
"Hey love," Killian crooned, slipping into the room with the mask firmly in place. "Bit of a throwback as far as fashion goes. Do you like it?"
She laughed softly, a little emotion hindering in the sound. Killian pulled the strings, releasing the mask to reveal a smile that he thought she might need. Her eyes were an affectionate green, but he wasn't oblivious to the tears forming in the corners of her gaze. He moved to her side and pressed his lips firmly against her forehead, brushing her hair back gently.
"Emma - hey," he coaxed, tucking his fingers under her chin to pull her view back to him. "It's going to be okay."
"Killian..."
"Love, don't do that," he grinned, squeezing her fingers. "I'm so proud of you, Emma - and I know this isn't part of the plan, but we're going to get through it. Swan, we're going to meet our daughter. You have been amazing through all of this...through everything. I love you so much and I promise-"
"You'll be there."
She relaxed visibly, her soft smile interrupting the path of the tear down her cheek. Her words had left her mouth in the form of a statement rather than a question. Killian felt his heart skip several beats. God, her faith in him was staggering.
"Yes," he breathed, reaching for her cheek to wipe away her tears. "I will. Always."
Emma grasped his hand and he had to smirk at the way her fingers gently twisted his wedding band. The act caused his brain to backtrack a bit, a recent memory from back in April drifting into his thoughts. It had been the most amazing night - both times.
"Okay, papa - I think I'm ready."
Killian had been wondering just how ready he was himself when he heard Liam's little voice from the doorway. His fingers continued to work on the dark blue tie he'd picked out - mostly because he knew Emma would comment on how it matched his eyes - when he turned to find his son in a state of what the little boy claimed to be 'ready'. A soft laugh escaped his lips as he watched Liam's grin spread across his cheeks.
"Yeah, you...sure are," Killian chuckled, waving the little boy over to him. "Come here, buddy. Let me just fix something for you."
Liam looked rather dapper in his little gray suit pants and crisp white shirt. Emma hadn't let up on the suspenders and Killian figured he could allow her that little detail. His hair had grown out just enough that it fell in those dark wavy curls that Killian loved and his eyes were bright, excited, and crystal blue. It had been easy to get Liam on board with their second wedding of sorts once they explained the whole reasoning for the event. In the end, he didn't really know if their story made sense, but Liam had gone along with it under the assumption that his parents were getting married again so he could be there. Killian decided to let it be - in a way, he wasn't wrong.
"Alright, let's see," he began, sitting on the nearby ottoman as Liam moved to stand in front of him. "Let's get these sleeves rolled up."
Liam held up his little arms high, watching his dad's hands turn the fabric up over itself. Killian smiled at his son's willingness to slightly alter his attire. They'd planned to have the simple ceremony by the docks and a little party down along the shoreline afterward. Liam would surely have his hands in the water the moment they made it down to the beach so he decided it best to prepare for that before the vows. Once Killian finished, he raised his eyebrows comically to provoke a laugh from his son. Naturally, he didn't fail.
"Now what, papa?"
"Well, come over here," Killian replied, tilting his head toward the mirror. "I have to get this tied before we can go."
"Do you know how?"
"I do," he answered, a half smile on his lips. "Do you want to learn?"
Liam nodded and Killian lifted him up to sit on the dresser, trying not to crack up at his son's studious manner. He straightened the ends of the tie as he turned back to the mirror. Liam's head dropped sideways and out of the corner of his eye, Killian watched his little boy focus.
"Alright, little man - you have to pull the wider side of the tie down to make it a little longer that the other side," he smirked at the way Liam furrowed his eyebrows. "Then you cross them, pull it around to the back and then underneath...then up and down through the loop..."
His voice drifted off a bit as his hands continued to move. Liam was hypnotized by the task, his dimples appearing deep on his cheeks when Killian pulled it into a firm knot.
"Papa," he said after a moment, scratching behind his ear familiarly. "I don't think I can do that..."
"That's okay, buddy," Killian chuckled, reaching for the clip-on bow tie they'd let Liam pick out for himself. "Yours is a bit easier - see?"
"You should have got an easy one too," Liam chided, raising his eyebrows teasingly.
Killian laughed, lifting his son into his arms and tickling at his ribs. Liam laughed wildly as he tried to catch his breath. He finally wiggled enough for Killian to put him down and he made a dash to get his shoes. Killian took a moment to pull on the vest that matched his gray pants, buttoning it carefully as he simultaneously stared himself down in the mirror. He adjusted the tie once more and ran an anxious hand over the scruff on his jaw. His hair was its typical mess, but he secretly knew how much Emma loved that.
"Alright, my boy," Killian exhaled, holding out a hand to his son. "Are we ready now?"
"I think so. Papa, can I ask you something?"
"Of course. What's up, little man?"
They had barely exited the truck, ending their short drive to the harbor when Liam made his curious request. Killian's intrigue was pulled to the people who'd begun to drift to the docks. He nodded at Victor and Ruby as they strolled down the planks, chatting animatedly with Dr. Dawson who had actually been invite at Killian's request. Archie had agreed to officiate the ceremony and David was down near the water, charming him with news about the baby. He could hear other voices in and out of the house, a fact that made him smile. They had so many people supporting them - so many people who wanted to be there to witness their happy ending. Anna and her sister Elsa had stopped in as well as August from the bar. Hell, even Leroy and his brother were there.
"Well, I'm glad you love mama," Liam started, anchoring his gaze upward. "But are you always going to love her?"
He had to smirk at the outlandish question - especially because the answer was so obvious. Killian had barely glanced down to the little boy to reply when Mary Margaret's car pulled into the driveway. His heart hitched hard in his chest - Emma had spent the day out with her, claiming the whole it's-bad-luck-to-see-the-bride-before-the-wedding excuse. He craned his neck just a bit and caught a flash of her flowing blonde hair. Killian felt his eyes lock on the sight, waiting patiently as she came into full view.
Her dress was simple, an off white and flowing that led down just past her knees. She wore criss crossing sandals - ones that would surely come off once they made their way to water after the vows. She only looked at him briefly, the slight curve of a smile on her lips but the most radiant form of loving green in her eyes. She was so unbelievably beautiful - and he'd never believe she was anything but just that.
"Yeah, Liam," he confirmed, watching her drift toward the sand. "I'm planning on it."
"Really?"
"Yes," he grinned, squeezing his little boy's hand. "Until the end of time, buddy."
When she reached the edge of the beach and peered back at him with that coy expression, Killian couldn't help but think that even that wouldn't be long enough.
She didn't have to watch him to know what was replaying in his head - that beautiful spring evening was filling her mind as well. Emma set into that familiar series of flashbacks as she recalled the way they'd used their original vows, the words that had meant so much once and now held even more validity. She hadn't forgotten the way his eyes were that glassy blue and the manner in which he held her hands so purposefully. She wouldn't ever let go of the way "I do" had become a whole new type of amazing or the gentle method in which his hand caressed her jaw as he kissed her with all the promise of a commitment renewed. Emma remembered it all - she always would.
They were broken out of the loving trance by a soft knock on the door. Killian's eyes darted toward the entrance and they both tilted their heads at the source of the sound.
"Hey," Mary Margaret's caring tone began, breaking through the air in a welcome way. "Anna said we could stop by really fast before they take you guys back to the operating room."
"Yeah," Emma breathed with relief, waving her inside. "Come in - it's good to see you."
She wondered if her friend knew just how true those words were - especially since that honesty doubled once a little dark haired boy made his appearance. He smiled curiously, waiting for his either parent's permissive gesture. Killian stood and obliged as he walked to the doorway, lifting Liam into his arms to carry him to the bed. Emma would never stop being thankful for her husband and the way he cared for their son. She only hoped that one day both of their children would realize just how fortunate they were to have such a protective and loving father.
"Mama," Liam said softly. "Are we going to get the baby today?"
"Yeah, we are," Emma laughed nervously, relaxing a bit as Liam landed on the edge of the sheets for a cautious hug. "I think it's about time, don't you?"
He nodded, snuggling against her side in a way that made Killian grin. Her husband took a moment to share a few words with David and Mary Margaret took a moment to wander over, offering Emma a quick hand to hold.
"You're going to be amazing, Emma," her friend promised, squeezing her tentative grip. "We're so thrilled for you - all of you."
Emma smiled up at her, grateful for their presence for the thousandth time. She hadn't known it until she saw them all, but it was exactly what she needed. Mary Margaret held up the little stuffed duckling they'd found while shopping months ago, an action that made Emma sigh a soft laugh.
"I thought you'd like to have it here," she explained, setting it down next to Liam. "Your son has promised to keep it safe for you. Neal is out in the hallway with Ruby so we'll keep Liam plenty busy while you guys meet your little girl."
Emma ran a hand through Liam's dark hair, holding him close with gratitude for a moment that was suddenly too short. The opening of the door caught everyone's attention and Anna smiled as she peeked inside.
"Oh - hello," she said timidly. "We're, uh, ready for you guys. I'll just give you guys a minute and then I'll be back to get you, okay?"
Emma nodded, bending over to kiss her son's head. Mary Margaret leaned in for a hug and David shook her husband's hand, clapping him on the shoulder with pride. It was amazing to see the way their little families had intertwined and it was a fact Emma would never cease to love.
"We'll be back when the baby is here," Liam assured, embracing her once more. "I love you, mama."
"I love you too, buddy," she grinned, a solitary tear falling from the corner of her eye. "We will see you soon, okay?"
They exited quickly and Killian arrived back at her side, linking their fingers again. He smirked at her and kissed her forehead in a movement that pulled her back from an anxious edge. The knowledge that Liam would be with the two people she trusted endlessly put a new form of serenity into her mind and she took a deep breath as she leaned back against the pillow.
"Ready, love?"
"Yeah," she decided, a half smile taking up the side of her mouth. "I think I am."
Emma had been impatient, wanting nothing more than to visit her friends and their new bundle of joy. Killian seemed rather anxious as well, but they'd decided to give the new parents a day or two to settle in before stopping by. When Liam insisted by about day three, their ability to wait collapsed - and it didn't seem like the worst thing in the world.
The two of them peeked through the front door of David and Mary Margaret's house with Liam at their feet. Mary Margaret's smile caught them immediately as she beckoned them inside, sitting up a little straighter in the recliner near the fireplace.
"Hey guys," David said softly, his grin huge and rather proud. "Come in - it's good to see you."
Liam didn't think twice, running toward David with open arms. He lifted the little boy as Killian and Emma filtered into the room. David laughed at Liam's actions, but Emma knew just how much her son's excited gesture meant to the man. David and Liam had always gotten along great, but the two had become inseparable. Killian smirked at the sight, pulling Emma close to his side. She didn't know if she or Killian could ever express how grateful they were for the way their two friends had been a safe harbor for their son.
"Uncle David," Liam started in somewhat of a whisper. "Can I meet the baby?"
"Absolutely," he replied with a chuckle. "Let's see - come over here."
He set Liam down, walking to the recliner as Emma and Killian followed close behind. Mary Margaret shifted the sleeping bundle in her arms so Liam could rest his hands on the side of the chair. She leaned down and kissed his head of unruly hair, delighting in the grin they shared before adjusting her hold on their new baby so Liam could see.
"Liam," David said with a smile, reaching to brush the blanket away from the baby's face. "This is our son, Neal."
"He's so little," Liam mused, his eyes wide with intrigue.
"Yeah, he's not very old yet, buddy," Mary Margaret told him, tickling the infant's cheek. "Just a few days."
Neal gave some semblance of a smile as he wiggled under the blanket. Liam's mouth hung open slightly as he gasped in awe. Killian looked on curiously and Emma stretched to kiss his cheek, earning her a knowing wink as she pulled him along. Reaching her friend, Emma mouthed a quick hello to the new mother as she leaned down to smooth the baby's soft hair. It was amazing how wonderful parenthood looked on Mary Margaret and David. They were absolute naturals.
"He's beautiful," Emma grinned. "Congratulations - both of you."
Mary Margaret beamed as she gazed upward. Killian arrived at his wife's side, laughing softly at Neal's adorable yawn.
"He's quite the looker," Killian commented, smirking sweetly as he held up the stuffed duck they'd brought along. "Here - for your little duckling."
"Oh, it's perfect," Mary Margaret replied, glancing at Emma knowingly.
"I figured he ought to have one too," Emma explained as she shrugged.
"Uncle David," Liam began thoughtfully. "When we bring our baby home, can Neal come visit her?"
"I think that's a great idea," David agreed, glancing toward his wife. "You know, Liam - the two of them are going to grow up together. You might have to help look out for them."
Liam's eyes grew curious and he turned to look at his father. Killian nodded in confirmation as he drew his arm around Emma. She leaned on his chest for a moment, relaxing into the heartbeat under her ear. It was an easy scene to be comfortable with - this happy picture of their two little families.
"So," Liam continued, pursing his lips. "It's kind of like I get to be a big brother twice. I get to practice taking care of Neal first."
"Yeah I guess it kind of is," Mary Margaret laughed, nodding at the little boy's conclusion.
Emma grinned at her friends and then up at Killian. His eyes were a watery blue as he seemed to realize once again just how they were to have the Nolan family around.
"It definitely is," Killian said softly to Emma. "Just like they've taken care of our boy."
"Yeah," Emma sighed as she looked back down at the sleepy baby boy. "Just like that."
Killian was glad to see that much of his wife's apprehension had faded after seeing some well known faces. He clung to the side of the bed as they wheeled toward the operating room, his hand firmly in Emma's as soon as he slipped the mask back over his mouth. They paused for a moment outside the doors, waiting while Anna made sure the doctor was prepared for them.
"Hey," Emma said suddenly, holding a small folded piece of paper out to him. "I almost forgot to give this to you. Remember, you agreed to keep your eyes averted until after we hold her."
"I know," he nodded, smirking as he took the slip from her and stuck it in the pocket of the scrubs. "You have my word, love."
"When did you decide?"
It was a curious question and one he didn't know if he should reply to. Yet in that moment, she needed distraction - and it seemed like a fair way to give it to her.
"Several months ago actually," he divulged, stroking her thumb. "What about you?"
"The same," she laughed as she gripped his fingers. "Think we're on the same page?"
"I'd say it's possible," Killian shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "We seem to have a way of doing that."
Emma smiled softly, closing her eyes for a moment. He watched her with careful concern as he pondered the million ways he might be able to make this easier for her. Killian knew he'd do whatever she needed - he wanted her to be comfortable, even in a situation that was full of anticipation. It felt good to know he might have that ability once again.
"Emma," he started once more, gazing into her antsy stare. "I love you. We've got this, Swan - I promise."
"I love you too, Killian," she breathed, her eyes a deep emerald green. "So much."
"Okay guys," Anna interrupted, that excited grin plastered over her expression. "Ready?"
Killian looked down at his wife, the woman who he already knew to be an incredible mother. He delayed his affirmation until she nodded, but when she did, he glanced back to Anna with a prepared stance.
"Absolutely," he offered, gripping Emma's hand in assurance. "We're definitely ready."
After the name debacle they went through the first time, Killian knew Emma would try to get the jump on him on their second go around. He figured he'd allow it after the torment he'd given her over the months before Liam was born, but he never expected her to take the approach she did.
"Alright, Mr. Jones," she announced one morning as they conversed over the weekly crossword puzzle. "We're both going to pick our first choice and write it down. You get until delivery day to decide and then when we actually meet her, we'll select the one that fits best. Fair enough?"
"You've really thought this through," he laughed, tearing two scraps of paper from one of the thicker newspaper ads. "But yes - fair enough."
Killian carried the scrap around for days, thinking through various names here and there. He didn't know if Emma had decided on any yet, but he wanted to be sure he found the one he really thought would fit. Who knew that he'd locate that particular choice during movie night and the hundredth viewing of their boy's favorite movie.
"Papa," his son explained, pointing to the screen. "That girl is a princess."
"Oh yeah?"
"Yep," Liam nodded, eyes glued to the film. "But Captain Hook is going to capture her and try to make her help him. He wants to find Peter Pan. She is really brave though and she doesn't listen to Hook because she's Peter Pan's friend."
"Hey you," Killian teased as he tickled the little boy. "Spoiler alert..."
Liam laughed, wiggling around on the couch as the scene unfolded on the television. Killian's brain halted slightly with an idea as he furrowed his eyebrows in observation of the character his son had described. Perhaps, he thought as he stowed the information away for later. It wasn't even a minute afterward that he caught sight of Emma and the way she was scribbling something on what appeared to be her piece of the ad. He grinned inwardly as he thought that maybe - just maybe - picking a baby name would be all too easy this time.
The sounds and sights that came from being in the hospital still weren't appealing, but having an alert and supportive husband at her side was sure helping. He kept his eyes on hers as the motions of doctors and nurses circled around them. Her nerves weren't as active as she'd imagined they'd be and she attributed it to the way he was staring down at her, all the love in the world radiating from that astounding blue.
"Alright, Emma," the doctor's voice signaled. "Almost there - you're going to feel a bit of pressure."
Her heart sped up just slightly. She hadn't realized how quickly things were moving along. Killian's gaze dissolved into the happiest excitement as they waited. When the sound finally met their ears, they realized just how ready they both were to hear it - the healthy, loud, wonderful cry of their baby girl. Emma shut her eyes as her skin tingled and she basked in the pure love surrounding her. She felt the gentle kiss on her forehead and returned her vision to Killian as he laughed softly, rising to get a look at their daughter.
"Emma, god-" he stuttered, emotion hinging in his voice. "-she's so beautiful. She's perfect, love..."
It didn't take long for the doctor to check the baby's lungs and weight her before Anna came around the side of the curtain, laying their little girl carefully in Killian's arms. He choked back a few happy tears, allowing the rest to run down his cheeks as he sat down at Emma's side and tilted their baby up just a bit. He hadn't been even close when he'd said she was perfect. After everything they'd endured, their beautiful little girl was something beyond that.
"Six pounds, eight ounces," Anna's voice offered, tears filling her gaze as well. "About twenty inches long. She's absolutely beautiful, you guys. Congratulations."
Killian smiled up at her through the mask, supporting his daughter's head and little frame with persistent care. Emma allowed herself to absorb every little detail about their baby girl - her round cheeks and dark pink lips, the way she tried to open her eyes briefly, the little pink hat they'd slipped over her tiny head. She had to wonder about the hair underneath and the little fingers and toes wrapped tight under the blanket.
"She's amazing," Emma sighed hazily. "Killian, what did you write on your paper?"
He chuckled softly, adjusting his hold on his daughter before looking back down at her. He didn't even have to say it - somehow, she was sure she already knew.
"Lily."
Emma allowed the lazy grin on her lips to arch upward just a bit as her cheeks grew wet with tears. He seemed to know what was she was going to say in return and he leaned forward to carefully kiss her forehead.
"Me too."
The weeks following their more pleasant trip to the hospital flew by and Emma had to wonder how time went from moving so torturously slow to so insanely fast. Their days were filled with happiness that was almost unfair to the world around them, every waking instant providing some wonderful moment with their little family. Memories seemed to create themselves - everything from Liam meeting his little sister to the way Killian danced around the room with the baby at night when she woke up to witnessing their little girl's first smile. The stress and uncertainty they'd lived in during those months after the accident had faded in a way that made it seem like another lifetime. The joy that outlined every second of each day outweighed any of the tragedy they'd once known. They lived in this new blissful state of normal - and normal had never felt so right.
Sadly, with that new sense of conventional came the more necessary tasks that had once fit into their daily schedule. Emma had slowly returned to work at her own insistence, knowing full well that Lily would be in the capable hands of someone she trusted. Some days it was Mary Margaret who'd taken the year off from teaching to spend with her own baby boy. Other days it was the loving attention of Killian, the man who'd melted into a paternal puddle when it came to his little girl. She knew he needed it - that special bond with their daughter. He'd always had that connection to Liam and allowing her boys to spend a few days alone with their little Lily was something she'd finally learned to allow.
It had been a couple months full of this elation that led to Emma coming home from work as the first snowflakes of the winter hit the ground. She navigated the steps up to their front door carefully, tugging her coat close before she reached the knob to open the entrance to a warm house. It was toasty in the best way, evidence that Killian had lit a fire for her an hour or so ago. He had always done attentive things like that - and knowing that he remembered those little details now was definitely something to be thankful for.
She followed the soft tones of several voices, knowing that both of her boys and their baby girl would be waiting for her in the living room. They usually were after work, a fact that fit perfectly into their new little world of typical. Rounding the corner, she expected to find them all together and they were - but in a little different circumstances than she'd anticipated.
Blankets were draped in that familiar manner, stretching from the couch to strategically placed chairs to create one of the better forts she'd witnessed. Her family was stationed under the quilted structure with Liam at his Killian's side and Lily in the well practiced hold of her father. Their little boy had his big book of fairytales open on his lap and though his ability to read was extremely limited, Liam knew the contents well enough to illustrate the storyline for his little sister. Emma leaned in the doorway, taking in the view and wondering which tale he'd selected. As she watched, she couldn't help but speculate on how she became fortunate enough to have this astounding and amazing life.
"Papa," Liam asked, turning to look at his dad. "Do you think Lily would like to hear the Rapunzel story?"
"I think Lily enjoys just about anything you read to her," Killian grinned, loosening the blanket around the baby just enough for her little hand to reach for and wrap around his finger. "I think she likes hearing your voice, buddy."
Liam lit up at that and starting flipping through the pages. His eyes were focused and intelligent, a sure sign of the perfect little storyteller for their daughter. He'd truly taken to being a big brother in the way she hoped he would.
"Will you make sure she can see the pictures, papa?"
"Of course," Killian laughed, moving Lily up a bit higher into the crook of his arm. "Alright - go ahead."
As Liam began to narrate, Emma's eyes settled on her husband and their little girl. They'd agreed on her first name without even knowing it and Killian had insisted on Grace for her middle name, claiming it's where he fell from when he lost his memories and what he had to work to regain after the accident. It had been all too fitting and from the moment she saw 'Lily Grace Jones' on the birth certificate, Emma knew it was the correct choice. Seeing Killian with Lily had been the happy ending she never even dreamed of. He was so protective and nurturing with her, constantly doing whatever he could to keep her in his arms. Even in her still quite newborn state, Lily had a strong liking for her father. He'd gotten her to smile several times more than Emma had and he had the uncanny ability of calming her, alleviating the occasional nighttime crying with adept skill. The little girl seemed to love the soothing sound of her dad's accented voice and hearing him sing softly to her had become a remembered and favorite pastime.
Killian seemed to sense her after a moment, his blue and captivating glance welcoming her home. She smirked at his affection and made her way to the fort, lowering herself to crawl in next to them. Emma was grateful for her regained ability to move normally again and Liam lifted his attention to her with a grin.
"Mama, guess what?"
"Hmmm," Emma hummed, leaning her head against Killian's shoulder. "I don't know - what?"
"We're telling Lily about Rapunzel," he informed her, tapping the pages. "I think she's going to like this one."
"I bet she will," Emma agreed, gazing down at the baby and then up at Killian. "So this is what you've been up to today, huh?"
"Yeah," Killian nodded, turning to kiss Emma's forehead. "I figured it wouldn't hurt to make some memories - and this seems like it might be a good one to hold onto."
Emma let her eyes latch firmly onto his, her brain reeling with remembering as Liam's animated words met her ears. Lily gazed up at her father with a trusting expression, one that dissolved into a brief smile as he tickled her cheek gently. She couldn't quite figure out how it had happened - how they'd made it from her nearly losing him to this perfect scene of never letting him go - but in that moment, Emma wanted nothing more than to remember a time like this for as long as her memory would allow.
"I love you, Emma Jones," he whispered, pressing a kiss against her hair. "Don't ever forget that."
Well, one thing was for sure...she definitely wouldn't - not a chance.
So I had to go with Lily just because I've always liked it for them (mostly because of Tiger Lily haha) so there's really no connection with the Lily on the show. I will be writing an epilogue soon for this story, but it will just be a little add on that won't really affect the storyline...mostly just a little tidbit that crossed my mind the other day. I'm going to mark the story as complete, but watch for that soon :] I'm also currently working on a new AU that will be posted very soon so keep an eye out! Thank you for reading!