Her heart skipped a beat, even as her head wondered who it was, hoping it wasn’t Walsh. Her feet carried to the door before her mind caught up, her hand turned the lock with an audible click, why wasn’t she looking through the peephole? It didn’t matter. The door was already cracking open. Her heart went to her throat.

Blue eyes and a wide, infectious smile greeted her. “Swan, at last.” He breathed her name like a prayer. 

It was him. Her dream pirate. No fucking way. Emma couldn’t breathe as her eyes drank in the sight of him. “Killian.”

His expression grew surprised, before Emma unthinkingly, instinctively, reached up, gripping him by the collar of his jacket and pulling him to her lips. The moment their lips met, a breeze of magic rushed between them and everything flashed in her mind. 

They met at night outside of Regina’s house. She was bringing Henry home. 

“Killian Jones. Deputy of Storybrooke. Mind if I ask what you are doing with the Mayor’s son, Miss Swan?”

She remembered his protectiveness over Henry. How much of a father he was long before Henry called him “Dad.” 

"I'm not saying that. I'm saying that Henry needs to believe that someone believes in him. Just because the curse isn't real to us, it doesn't mean that it isn't real to him. He needs you to believe him, Emma. Go prove him right.”

His smirks any time she got one over on Regina. His affirmations of support no matter the hurt it caused him, so long as she felt better and was comforted. 

Coffee and notes. He made it a habit, a routine for them. One she looked forward to every morning. 

He could read her so well. Knew all of her thoughts and emotions just by a look. 

"You're something of an open book.”

"Am I?" 

"More than you know.”

Killian worked hard to open her heart up to him, to love. 

"I know that you aren't one to let go and take a leap of faith. Your walls are a tower where you hide away, but you're not waiting for your prince to come rescue you. You're protecting yourself because you believe that anyone who comes near your tower is an ogre out to do you harm. But know this, love, I'm not an ogre. I want nothing more than your happiness and I know that it's too much for me to ask you to allow me to climb that tower, or you to let yourself out of it. So I won't. I'm ready and willing to wait for you, because you are more than worth any wait. Even if I have to wait twenty or fifty years or even an eternity for you, my Swan, I will."

Her first and only Christmas with him and Henry. The happiest Christmas she’d ever experienced. Their first kiss in the hospital after his accident. Their first date on the beach getting to know each other. Their first time together in the lighthouse.

Giving him True Love’s Kiss and breaking the Curse over the town. 

"What do I have to do?”

"Only True Love's Kiss can break this curse. You have to believe in his love for you, and your love for him.”

"I don't know if I can.”

"Stop thinking, and just feel. Listen to your heart.”

"I love you, Killian."

Learning that the man she loved was Captain Hook, a character straight out of a children’s story she grew up with, but nothing like she ever imagined. 

"Who are you?”

"Killian Jones. But most people have taken to calling me my more colorful moniker…Hook."

“Hook? As in Captain Hook?”

"I'd say at your service, milady, but pirates tend to not have good relations with royals.”

Ending up in the Enchanted Forest and having to find a way home. Climbing the beanstalk together and re-committing to each other. Telling him about Neal and the pain he caused, opening herself up to him completely, giving him her Swan pendant. 

"I wore it, to remind myself never to trust anyone again. I held onto it, as a reminder of what Neal did to me, but I don't want to live in the past anymore. What you told Anton, on the beanstalk, about how you realized you didn't have to be alone anymore...it made me realize that I don't have to hold onto the past anymore. Yeah, I'll never forget what Neal did, and I doubt that I'll ever forgive him for it, but I've let his actions, the memory of him, hold me back from love and trust for ten years. I don't want to be held back anymore. I want you to have it. You don't have to wear it, or even keep it really, because, well Neal gave it to me, and you probably hate that, but...I want you to have it anyway, because I want it to remind you that you are the reason that I'm letting go of Neal. That you're the first person who I've been able to open up to in a long time. I want it to remind you that...that I trust you.”

"I'd be honored to wear it. I love you, Emma."

Henry helped her find her happy ending. Sweet, amazing, smart Henry, her wonderful son, ever the optimist whenever she was in doubt. The only who truly believed Killian would make it home from the Enchanted Forest when no one else did.

“Grandpa always says that we have to have hope. That we have to have faith that everything will work out. I know that dad may be hurt, and it may be really, really bad, but I believe that he'll make it. He'll pull through, and then he'll find his way back home.”

 "Optimism must've skipped a generation.”

"Maybe, but you can't give up. Grandma once told us in class, when we were making birdhouses, that if someone loves you they will always find you. And Dad loves you, doesn't he?”

“Yes. And I love him.”

"Then he'll find you.”

"Thank you, Henry. Come here, kid. I love you.”

"I love you, too.”

Tears came to her, remembering that that was the first time she ever told Henry she loved him.

Finding out she was pregnant again. Terrified she’d have to go through it alone, because Killian hadn’t made it home yet. Telling Killian the news.

Her and Killian proposing to each other. He kept his mother’s ring for centuries and deemed her to be worthy enough to possess it. It was the ring she still wore on her finger to ward off Walsh. 

"Marry me?”

"Swan, what are you doing? You're depriving me of my romantic proposal.”

"You were going to propose?”

“Someday.”

“Well, I guess I saved you some trouble then?”

"You're proposing now?”

"I'll say yes, on one condition."

“What?"

"Well, I proposed first. So, don't you think you should say yes first?”

"If the lady insists. Yes, I will marry you, Emma Swan.”

"Yes, I'll marry you, Killian Jones.”

They were so happy for so long, and everything was going perfectly. Neverland and all the baggage that nasty adventure came with rushed back. 

Liam’s birth on the Jolly Roger. 

“I never got to hold Henry like this. Things will be different this time. I’m not missing another day in Henry’s life, and I’m not going to miss a day of Liam’s.”

“Nor will I.” 

“We love you, Liam Jones. You have no idea how happy we are that you’re here.”

Liam. Her baby. She left him, choosing Henry because Henry would be alone. 

“How do we know what’s best?”

“We…we’ll have to…we have to give them both their best chance.”

“Henry can’t be alone. But Liam needs me too.”

“I know. But, I…I think you and I both know what we need to do.” 

“This isn’t fair. Why couldn’t Regina’s price be her magic? Or her title, or something that didn’t involve us making the hardest decision of our lives?”

“I don’t know. I wish it didn’t have to be this way.”

“I know that you won’t remember me, but I want you to know that I love you so much. In my heart, I will remember you everyday. I promise. So, you be good for your dad. He’s going to have a hard time, and he loves you so much, but he’s not going to be in a good place. He will be so overprotective of you, so let him, even though it’ll probably drive you crazy. But he loves you, and he will put so much energy into giving you everything you deserve. You will be so so so loved, and I am so sorry that I’m going to miss all of it. I’m so sorry that I won’t be there. I wish more than anything that your brother and I could go with all of you. That we could be there for you. But life isn’t fair, and it sucks. But you are so lucky to have your dad, and your grandparents, and so many people who will be there for you. I hope that you miss me, but I really hope that you don’t either.”

Her parents. David and Mary Margaret. Prince Charming and Snow White. 

"Well, he thinks that you're Snow White, right? He thinks David is Prince Charming. You guys are True Love, so that makes you my parents.”

“Huh? Well, I have a kid. You'd think that I'd remember something like that.”

“Yeah. You'd think.”

"You do kind of have my chin. And my eyes. Hell, I think you have David's nose too.”

“Please, you just want Emma around so you can go into mother hen mode and molly coddle her during the pregnancy.”

"That's not true."

"I always knew you'd be a daddy's girl."

They hadn’t abandoned her. They loved her so much, but she was the Savior. She needed to break the Curse. 

"We're together, finally, and I can't help but think you're not happy about it.”

"Oh, I am. But see, here's the thing. No matter what the circumstances, for twenty-eight years I only knew one thing. That my parents sent me away.”

"We did that to give you your best chance.”

"You did it for everyone, because that's who you are. Leaders, heroes, princes, and princesses, and that's great, a-and amazing, and wonderful. But it doesn't change the fact that, for my entire life, I've been alone.”

"But, if we hadn't sent you away, you would've been cursed, too.”

"But we would've been together. Which curse is worse?"

“But Henry and Killian changed that?”

"Coming to Storybrooke changed that. Henry, Killian, you, and David. All of it. I have a family now. It's all I ever wanted. I'm...I'm really happy I finally found you guys.”

"We are so so happy that you found us too.”

Henry. God, she did give Henry away but he found her.

“I gave him up because I couldn't be a mother. At the time, Neal had proved to me that I couldn't be loved. That I didn't deserve it. I knew that if I kept Henry, he would've loved me unconditionally, but I didn't think that I deserved his love. The doctor tried to get me to change my mind, he even told me the baby was a boy after I had told him that I didn't want to know what it was. But...But I couldn't...I told the doctor that I couldn't be a mother. I wasn't fit to be a mother. I didn't even look at Henry, because I knew that if I had seen him, I would've begged them to let me keep him. The first time I saw Henry was when he found me.”

Graham. His shoelace which she still kept in her jewelry box. She stopped wearing it because she didn’t remember why she even had it, but Emma knew it wasn’t something that could be discarded. Oh god, he was her first true friend to die, the first funeral she went to…she and Killian named their son for him. 

August. He came with her, he left her, the wardrobe could’ve taken two, but it didn’t and she grew up alone. He was family now, a brother to her and Killian, uncle to their sons. 

Facing Neal and all the past pain he caused. 

Being the Savior. Bringing back the happy endings. Finding and building her family. 

Her friends. Her family. 

Separating again because of another fucking Curse. 

“I know this isn’t fair, but I need you to promise me something else.”

“Anything.”

“It’s impossible.”

“I don’t care.”

“Promise me that you’ll find us. Promise me that you will find a way back to me and Henry. Find us.”

“As you wish.” 

It was all back. Emma Swan knew exactly who she was now and every part of her was back in it’s rightful place. Slowly, she pulled away, her hands gripping his coat collar, unwilling to let him go again. “You found us.”

“Aye,” Killian rested his forehead against hers. “That was True Love’s Kiss. It doesn’t work with memory loss, so I take it that you remembered me?” His sweet, dimpled smile sent her heart soaring. 

“Not entirely.” Emma said, just breathing him in. God, he was back, he found her, he kept his promise. “Bits and pieces. I don’t think Regina’s spell was foolproof.” She pulled him fully into the apartment, not wanting any nosy neighbors to question why some guy in strange clothes was kissing her. 

The apartment door shut with a click and they stood in the entryway, holding each other, drinking  in the sight of each other. “How did you find us?” Emma asked, hand going around his neck to play with the curling ends of his hair. He needed a haircut and a beard trim, but damn if he didn’t look fine. His Enchanted Forest clothes certainly screamed menacing pirate, and Emma loved the look. She didn’t know why he never offered to dress up for her before, but Emma was going to make him from now on. 

Something pained flickered in Killian’s eyes, before a strained smile appeared. “The compass you gave me on my birthday. When I came through the portal, I meant to use it to navigate to the nearest city. It wasn’t pointing north. I followed it, ended up in Portland, Maine. Then I just took a bus in the direction it pointed and ended up here.” His hand reached into his coat pocket, pulling out a blue vial. “This is a memory potion, but looks like you won’t need it.” He set it on the kitchen counter.

“Henry might.” Emma said, taking Killian’s hand and hook in hers. She missed him so much. “He doesn’t remember like I do, but he’s been having dreams of Storybrooke.” 

That only made Killian more curious. He supposed when they returned, Regina might have some answers. 

Emma asked the one question that nagged most at her. “Where’s Liam?” Her baby was alive. The baby she thought lost forever was alive and happy and healthy as she knew he would be with Killian. Her entire being ached to see him and hold him again.

“He’s safe.” Killian reassured, cupping her face. “He’s with my brother.” 

“You’re trusting August with an eight month old?” Emma teased.

That odd smile was back. There was a story there. “Where’s Henry?”

“At a friend’s house.” Emma said, leaning in. “I’m picking him up in the morning.” 

A smirk formed on his handsome face. “So we’re alone?”

Emma grinned into his lips. “Yes.” Pressing her lips to his could never convey just how much she truly missed him and how happy she was to see him, but she sure as hell was going to try.

Killian pulled her close, deepening the kiss. It had been too, too long since they’d been together. Every fiber of his being missed her; his heart ached without her; his soul cried out for her. Overjoyed at their reunion, Killian could only express it all in this kiss where relief, love, passion, and joy united together, saying everything that words could not. 

Ignoring their burning lungs, the couple leaned further into each other. 

His coat fell from his shoulders, so Emma gripped him desperately by neck, attempting to meld them into one being. 

“Too many clothes.” She mumbled, hardly taking her lips from his. Her hands slid down his waistcoat, unbuttoning the red brocade swiftly. 

Killian grinned into her kiss as the vest met the same fate as the coat. “I missed you.” He pushed into her, her back hitting the island behind them. “Gods, Emma I thought about you every moment of every day.” His fingers nimbly undid the buttons of her pajama shirt. 

Emma eagerly let her shirt fall from her, pressing her bare chest to him. 

He groaned into her. 

Her hands pulled down his suspenders. Why the fuck was he even wearing suspenders? Too many layers. She practically clawed at his shirt to get it off. 

They broke their kiss briefly to discard his shirt. 

Emma gripped his forearms as she lead him further into the apartment. “Bedroom, now.”

He followed her command letting her haul him to her bedroom. He kicked the door closed behind him before hauling her in for another kiss. Killian spun her around, pressing her into the bedroom door, lifting her legs around his waist. 

Emma moaned as his hardening cock rubbed against her through their remaining layers off clothes. “Fuck.” Her hips ground into him, creating friction they desperately needed. “Killian, I missed you so much.” 

His lips danced down her collar bone, pausing to suck at a sensitive spot along her pulse. He breathed in the scent of her, content to kiss her here for eternity, sucking hard enough to leave bruising. 

Her hips undulated against him as her need grew. She hadn’t orgasmed properly since before Neverland, having frustratingly little success in her solo efforts for the past eight months. Emma pushed him away a bit, letting her legs fall, quickly shimmying out of her pants and underwear. 

Killian swallowed seeing her naked form for the first time in so long. Gods, she was radiant. He pulled her back to him, fingers dancing along her stretch mark scars. “I haven’t had a lot of privacy these past months, so I’m not sure how long I’ll last.”

“Me either.” Emma admitted. Her hands unbuttoned his pants and pushed them downwards.

Killian stumbled back as he kicked off boots and pants, falling ass first onto her bed.

She laughed at the sight he made before helping pull everything off. Then he was naked before her except for his hook and brace. Emma climbed onto his lap, bringing their bodies together, her wet folds sliding over his erection. A happy sigh escaped her. “Foreplay later?”

“Count on it, love.” He smirked shamelessly. “Condoms?”

“IUD.” Not that she planned on having sex with anyone, but after believing she miscarried, Emma didn’t want to risk another pregnancy and had one implanted as soon as she could. Though now that she had her memories and the love of her life back, she’d certainly reconsider it if they wanted another baby. Pushing those thoughts away for the time being, Emma reached between them, her hand grasping his cock, aligning them together. She sunk down fully on him, both of them moaning loudly as their bodies joined together for the first time in too many months. 

Emma whimpered as her body stretched to accommodate to his size after so long. 

Their foreheads pressed together as they took time to revel in their union. 

Emma cupped his face. “I love you so much, Killian.” 

He brushed a lock of hair behind her ear. His blue eyes seared into her very soul. “I love you, Emma.” His voice thickened with desire. “Ride me, love.”

Her body shivered pleasurable at the huskiness of his voice. Gripping his shoulders, Emma set a slow, torturous pace as they relearned each other. She rose and fell in time with their harsh pants. How could she ever forget how wonderful it felt to be filled by him? 

Killian secured his right arm around her waist to support her as his hook traveled down her body until it fell between them, the cold metal rubbing against her hot, swollen clit. 

A guttural moaned left her lips as her head fell back. God that hook just fucking did things to her. “Fuck, Killian.”

“Yes, that is what we’re doing.” He teased, leaning down to kiss along her neck again.

She choked on a laugh, lightly smacking him on the shoulder. “Ass.”

“Later if you have the right toys,” He mumbled against her skin, biting along her collar.

She quietly lamented that she in fact didn’t have the right toys for that at the moment, but they’d fix that when they returned home. 

His lips trailed down to her breasts, his beard roughly scraping against her pale, creamy skin.

Emma cried out as his mouth mercilessly sucked in a pert, tight nipple. She bucked against him, her pace increasing as she chased the building tightening in her gut. 

Sensing she was close, knowing her body as well as his own, Killian withdrew from her before leaning back and rolling them over. 

She keened as Killian increased their pace, rocking the bed with the force of it. Their whimpers and moans filled the air as they lost themselves in the sensation of chasing their release. Emma choked on his name as white exploded behind her eyes, her orgasm washing harshly over her. 

Killian moaned out her name as her tight, pulsing cunt squeezed him dry as he came inside of her. As his senses came back to him, lightheaded from such a forceful orgasm, Killian looked down at his sweaty, glowing bride-to-be. 

Emma smiled widely, reaching up to run a hand through his damp, dark hair. “I hope you’ve got another round in you, sailor.”

Killian chuckled, leaning in to kiss her. “My love when have I ever left it to just one?” Slowly, Killian pulled out of her, dragging his lips against her dewy skin as he made his way southward. Now that their initial desperation for each other was satiated, he was going to take time lavishing attention on her body until she screamed his name. 

Her body quivered in anticipation as Killian left a trail of kisses down her stomach. As his mouth sucked on her throbbing clit and a scream of unadulterated pleasure leaving her, Emma felt as though her soul left her body, her body overwhelmed by the sensation. 

Her noises only spurred Killian on as his tongue slipped between her folds, eagerly tasting the remnants of their coupling. Knowing what his hook did to her, he brought the sharp instrument back into play, very lightly brushing the tip against her clit. 

“Fuck!” A hoarse moan ripped from her as she came quickly on the heels of her last climax. 

Killian took time relishing the taste of her as her body relaxed into the mattress. Blood rushed back down to his cock, his delight at bringing her pleasure shooting through him. Gods how he loved the noises she made, her completely unguarded, primal expression as she came. 

Feeling boneless, unable to properly move or speak, Emma lightly whined to get Killian’s attention. 

He chuckled against her before leisurely, agonizingly taking his time kissing his way up her body. He paused at her breasts, teeth raking along her skin before sinking in to mark. 

“Damn,” Emma gasped. “I forgot you’re all bark and bite.” Her teasing tone drew a small laugh from him as he continued kiss her chest. Wrapping her legs around him, Emma’s hands combed through his now wet hair, tugging at the strands, speaking with her actions.

Knowing his Swan was growing impatient, Killian moved upwards, kissing her soundly as his erection nestled between her legs, heat radiating from her. “You’re welcome to bite back any time.” 

Emma grinned, locking her legs around him. “You’re incorrigible.” 

“That’s not news to you.” He chuckled, kissing her again. A content sigh left him. “It’s been too long, my love.” 

“I know.” Emma’s hands clasped behind his neck. “If there’s ever another Curse, I’m going nuclear with my magic. Our family isn’t being separated ever again.” 

The seriousness of her tone and the tears in her eyes was enough to undo him. Killian swallowed back his own pain, focusing on them, in the here and now. “Never again.” He entered her deliberately tender after putting her body through the ringer. Keeping his pace gentle, he reached out, taking her hand in his and lacing their fingers together before pinning their joined hands above her head.

Their eyes locked reflecting everything they felt for the past eight months. Pain, suffering, loss, desire, joy, love all rolled into one look. 

“Killian.” Emma choked on tears as they slipped from the corners of her eyes. 

“I know.” His own voice hoarse. So much happened. There was still so much to talk about. Unable to stand it, Killian kissed her ardently, willing away everything these past months inflicted on them. “I love you.” 

Her voice tight with emotions, Emma whispered back words of love and adoration as his slow, reverent movements sparked the sedate beginnings of another climax. Together they moved as one, heavy breathing in sync, hearts beating in harmony. 

They came undone together, stars behind their eyes, as they lost themselves in each other’s embrace. 

How long they stayed that way, wrapped up together, drained from their vigorous lovemaking, they couldn’t say. After a time, when their breathing normalized, Killian rolled off of her, laying next to her on top of the sheets. 

Emma snuggled into his side despite the fact that they were both hot and covered in a layer of sweat. Her head rested on his shoulder as she threw her arm over his chest. 

Killian’s own arm came around her, holding her close. They remained silent for awhile, neither wanting to break their bubble, both knowing there was a lot to say, to catch up on. He sighed, knowing that they couldn’t keep putting it off. “How about a shower before we talk?” 

“That sounds like a good idea.” Emma whispered. “I can order us some lunch too.”

In no hurry, they took their time getting up and heading to the bathroom, kissing and touching along the way, neither willing to let the other go for very long, both fearing that this was all a dream and they’d wake up alone again. 

After a nice long shower and heavy petting, they dressed, Killian only in his pants and Emma in his shirt and her underwear, and sat in her living room. 

Emma ordered pizza, not wanting to leave to pick something up. She settled herself in Killian’s arms and asked about the Enchanted Forest. 

“We appeared near Aurora’s castle.” He started. “They took us in for the first night, but we were eager to get to Regina’s castle. It was still intact and had more room. Liam’s worst night was that first one, but it got better.” He spoke of their journey to Regina’s castle, of how he researched magic and exhausted all of Regina’s resources, how he dreamed of her. “Emma, I…” He looked around the apartment, eyes flicking everywhere before speaking. “I saw this apartment in my dreams of you. I dreamed of you doing things here, living your life, and I knew that you felt something was missing. That’s when I decided I needed to leave the castle and search elsewhere. You and Henry weren’t happy.” 

“Wait, you dreamed of me too?” Emma asked. Though it was odd that he was dreaming of her life here. She dreamed of her memories of course, but there were other things too. Liam crying, Killian on his ship, Killian with Liam. 

“Aye.” His brow furrowed. “What were your dreams of, love?” 

“Mostly Storybrooke.” Emma said. “But there were some of you and Liam in the Enchanted Forest.”

Killian contemplated her words. So they both dreamt about each other’s lives while they were separated…was that because they were True Love? 

Emma’s own thoughts wondered along the same lines. “I guess we’ll have to ask Regina and my parents when we get back to Storybrooke. They’d know if our dreams were because we’re True Love.” 

“Perhaps.” Something nagged at Killian though he ignored it for now. He continued telling her about his time at Regina’s castle, glossing over his fight with Snow a bit, explaining how he, Will, Alice, Tink, and Blackbeard left on their journey, taking Liam with them. “As we were traveling, well, I found out a truth about Blackbeard.” 

“Great.” Emma huffed. She didn’t like the bastard at all since it was his fault they ever ended up in Neverland and Pan fucking cursed them all. “Please, tell me more about that asshole.” 

Killian winced. That's right, Emma and Blackbeard weren’t exactly friends before the Curse so she wouldn't have any warm, fuzzy feelings towards his brother. Well, it was best to rip the bandaid off. “He’s my brother.” 

Emma blinked, taking a moment to process his words. “I’m going to need a very detailed explanation.” 

“Uh, well, he’s Liam.” Killian started. “My brother Liam, who I thought died, but apparently Pan resurrected him and owned his soul. Pan also didn’t let us know about each other being alive and he found out when he kidnapped you and Henry. I found out around Christmas. He didn’t want to tell me the truth because of our Liam and some stupid idea about tainting my memory of him, but yeah. Blackbeard is my brother and Will’s father.” 

“Wow.” Stunned didn’t even begin to cover what she was feeling. There was anger there too, though now it made sense how quickly Blackbeard flipped on Pan. He knew they were family and that Henry and Liam were his nephews. Still, she was definitely punching Blackbeard in the face when she saw him just on principle. “Wait, is he still called Blackbeard or do we have two Liams now?” 

“Blackbeard.” Killian said. “He said he’s too used to it now and it keeps it from being confusing.” 

There was a knock at the door, startling both of them. Emma hurriedly went to the door, seeing the pizza guy though the peephole. “Pizza.” Emma said. She quickly grabbed her wallet and paid, practically throwing the money at the guy as she grabbed the pizza. “Keep the change.” 

After shutting the door, Emma brought the pizza over, setting it on the coffee table. She opened the box and asked. “Any other bombs to drop?” 

“A few, yes.” Killian sighed. “Emma, we spent months traveling and came up empty handed. I wanted to return to the Enchanted Forest and try to find new leads, but then Regina came and got us. The only way to get back here was to cast the Dark Curse.” 

“No.” Emma shook her head. “There had to be another way.” Surely someone didn’t die just to get her and Henry home?

Killian swallowed. “Regina and Rumplestiltskin both agreed that it was the only way.” 

“Rumplestiltskin is alive?” Emma asked, floored. “How?” Jesus, what the fuck all happened in the Enchanted Forest? God, she couldn’t leave her family alone for five minutes. New brothers, curses, resurrections, what else could possibly happened? 

“Regina didn’t elaborate.” Killian said. “Emma, the Wicked Witch is controlling him and he seems to think you’re the only one who can stop her.” 

Emma leaned back against the couch, dread creeping in. “You mean the Savior is the only one who can stop her?” Is that all she was to people? 

Killian put his arm around her, hugging her to him. “You know that everyone went along with the Curse for you and Henry. Not because they need the Savior, right? We all wanted you both home.” 

“I know.” Emma sighed. “I just wish the Savior thing died with breaking the Curse.”

“I know, love.” Killian kissed her forehead. 

“So the Wicked Witch has the Dark One?” Emma grimaced. “Did this new Curse bring magic back with it?”

“Regina said that because Rumplestiltskin brought it back after the first Curse, that Storybrooke would always carry magic with it.” Killian still wasn’t entirely sure how that worked. Principles of magic were beyond his expertise. “It’s fully a magical town now.” 

Emma only nodded against him. It was a vain hope that magic hadn’t been brought back and they could all live normal lives. Bracing herself, she finally asked the question she dreaded the answer to, “Who…who volunteered?”

He moved away from her, avoiding looking at her. He wanted to be there when it happened, but Regina needed to stay with the Curse and hadn’t wanted to risk Killian getting caught up in grief and the Curse. His throat tightened. “Pop.” 

He spoke the word so quietly, Emma wasn’t sure she heard correctly at first. “Marco volunteered?” 

Killian could only nod in response, his eyes glossing over with unshed tears.

“Oh Killian.” Emma reached for him, pulling hi into a tight hug. “I’m so sorry.” Her own eyes watered. Despite his part in her growing up alone and in foster care, Emma grew to love Marco, and not just as he was Killian’s father figure, but also because he was a kind soul, who loved Killian and their boys fiercely, and who helped people as much as he could when he could. 

It was her hug that finally broke him and grief slammed into him, his body shaking as he began to sob, finally allowing himself to mourn his father. Burying his face into her shoulder, Killian let it all out. 

“I’m so sorry.” She whispered against his neck, holding him as they both cried, feeling Marco’s loss. Emma wished she could take away Killian’s pain. Marco was gone; he chose to die so that she and Henry could come home. He died for their family. Emma squeezed her eyes shut as guilt assaulted her. Why couldn’t there have been another way? Why was there always a stupid freaking Curse? 

It could’ve been minutes, hours maybe, but it felt like forever as Killian cried in her arms. 

Emma ran a comforting hand through his hair as he slowly calmed. 

His breathing evened out. “The pizza’s cold.” He mumbled. 

“I have a microwave.” Emma whispered. 

He pulled back, meeting her eyes. “I couldn’t be with him when it happened. I couldn’t risk being caught up in the Curse.” 

Emma brushed away the tear tacks on his cheeks. “He knew. He loved you, Killian.” 

“At least, I got to say goodbye.” Killian said. “I got to see him a final time.” He collapsed against the couch.

Neither of them were keen on eating anymore, so Emma put the pizza in the fridge then returned to the couch to cuddle with Killian, wishing there was more she could do to comfort him.

Killian rested his cheek against her hair, closing his eyes as the emotions of the day washed over him. 

When his breathing evened out, Emma carefully extricated herself from his arms. She maneuvered him so he was lying on the couch. She pulled the throw blanket over him and sat next to him, gently caressing his cheek. Her heart ached for him. He’d lost so much in his life. Would they ever get a break? 

She stood up and wanting to let him sleep, Emma decided to get dressed. Killian needed clothes for the trip home, and possibly extra outfits. Who knows if the Curse brought back all of their belongings? God, would their house still be there? Marco had nearly finished the renovations when they left for Neverland. Emma’s throat tightened. She hoped the house survived, so they’d have their home. Marco renovated it for them as a gift for their family and making it the place they raised their children seemed the best way to honor his memory. 

Once dressed, Emma made sure to leave Killian a note on the coffee table in case he woke up before she got back. She was glad that he fell asleep, if only so she could take time to process everything he told her. There was a Target not too far from her apartment, so she decided to grab what she could find there. Killian lost some weight from what she could tell. Had he taken care of himself? Didn’t anyone make sure he was eating? Knowing him as she did, he probably prioritized Liam and his search for a portal over everything else, but especially more than himself. 

She entered the store, not entirely focused on her mission as she thought over what all she learned from Killian. His brother was alive. Her kids already had a bunch of aunts and uncles, and now there was one more. She still wasn’t sure how she felt about a man she greatly disliked being the man Killian worshipped for his whole life. 

Grabbing Killian a few pairs of dark blue jeans, Emma’s mind turned over to the fact that the Dark One was alive. All magic came with a price, so how steep was the price for resurrection? Who the hell paid it? 

As for the Wicked Witch, Emma didn’t even know what to think about that. She was a product of True Love, which meant the most powerful magic of all lived inside of her, manifesting in her magic. So how powerful and bad was the Wicked Witch if Regina couldn’t fight her? Why did Emma have to be the one? What was the story with the Wicked Witch anyway? Killian hadn’t told her more before telling her about Marco. She’d need to get as much information as possible before returning to Storybrooke. 

She grabbed Killian some crew neck t-shirts, a few long-sleeved button downs, a pack of socks, and a belt before going to look for shoes. 

Why did she have to be the Savior? Her thoughts grew bitter. Why didn’t her job as the Savior end with the Curse breaking? Why was she responsible for villains? There were other heroes out there.

There was a nice pair of dockers that Killian would like. Grabbing the boots, she shook herself mentally. 

God, she sounded so fucking selfish. People needed her help; they were in danger. Emma wondered if she’d ever accept that she was indeed the Savior and likely always would be. She made her way to check out, lost in her own world, freezing as she found herself in the baby aisle. 

Sorrow filled her being at the thought of her baby, her little Liam. She missed out on the first eight months of his life after she swore she’d never miss out on a thing. How big was he? Was he crawling yet? Did he still use magic? Had his powers grown? What was he like? 

Keeping her tears at bay, Emma hurried to check out before a full on breakdown happened. When she arrived at the bug, throwing the bag of clothes into the passenger seat, Emma covered her mouth with her hands as sobs escaped her. 

How could she be the Savior? People were dying for her. She couldn’t stop a Curse from taking her family away from her. She couldn’t protect her sons. If she couldn’t do any of that, if she couldn’t keep everyone together and safe, how was she ever going to defeat the Wicked Witch? She wasn’t a Savior; she was a failure. She broke a Curse, but Regina defeated Cora and saved Henry, Neverland beat Greg and Tamara, Rumplestiltskin defeated Pan. What good was she? Storybrooke didn’t need her. They needed someone who could actually defeat a villain. Someone who wouldn’t fail them. 

Angrily wiping away her tears, Emma started up her car. 

She wasn’t a Savior. Storybrooke was screwed. 

Returning to her apartment building, Emma parked and grabbed her purchases. Hopefully Killian was still asleep so she didn’t have to explain her tears to him. Then she stepped out of the elevator, she froze seeing Walsh standing in front of her apartment talking to Killian, who stood shirtless in the doorway looking irritated. 

Emma glared at Walsh’s profile as she approached.

Killian saw her first, clocking her annoyance and wariness. His brow furrowed seeing that she’d been crying. “Hello, love.” He smiled gently, giving her a kiss on the cheek as he reached out to take the Target bag from her, before placing it inside the apartment on the floor next to the door. 

“Hey.” Emma relaxed, grinning back. She turned to Walsh. “Can I help you?” Okay, so she didn’t really hide the annoyance in her tone. 

“I was just…” Walsh started, but Killian cut him off.

“Walsh here was concerned for your wellbeing.” Killian said, smirking though there was a dangerous glint in his eyes. “He heard our rather enthusiastic reunion and thought you might be in need of saving.”

Emma rolled her eyes. The only one in need of saving was Walsh from the punch she wanted to throw. “Clearly I don’t. Did Walsh also mention he’s been stalking me and Henry?”

The dangerous glint in Killian’s eyes turned murderous. “No, he left that part out. He was much rather keen to introduce himself as your boyfriend.” Killian, of course, hadn’t believed him, and he definitely wanted to sink his hook into the man’s throat for stalking his wife-to-be and son. 

“In his dreams.” Emma growled. “Walsh is well aware of the fact that your my fiancé and that your were deployed, but he thought I conveniently made you up.” She moved to Killian’s side in the doorway, arm going around his waist. “As you can see, Killian’s a real person. Now, he’s been away for eight months and I really want to keep showing him how much I missed him.” Emma turned to head into the apartment, not seeing Walsh’s eyes flash red before he transformed into a flying monkey. 

Killian reacted quickly, pulling Emma out of the way of the monkey’s trajectory. 

Pressed up against the wall of her entryway with Killian’s body against hers, it took Emma a second to process the fact that her weird, creepy, psycho neighbor just turned into a flying fucking monkey. “What the fuck?” 

Killian kicked the door closed and maneuvered Emma behind him. “Well, looks like the Wicked Witch sends her regards.” 

The monkey perched on the kitchen counter glaring at the pair. It shrieked loud and angry before launching towards them, knocking the memory potion off of the counter, the blue vial hitting the tile floors, shattering everywhere. 

Emma and Killian ducked, scrambling away as the monkey slammed into the door. 

Killian pushed Emma ahead of him to keep his body between her and the monkey. 

The monkey shrieked as it knocked into Killian from behind, sending the pirate to the ground. It jumped on top of him and Killian quickly grabbed the monkey’s wrists with his hand and hook to keep it from clawing at him. 

“No!” Emma’s fear for Killian consumed her and without thinking about it, her magic reached out and blasted the monkey to ash. 

Killian closed his eyes as monkey dust covered him. He sat up brushing himself off. “I’m going to need another shower after that.” 

Emma stared at her hands. “I used magic.” 

“Aye.” Killian walked over to her and helped her stand up. “Are you all right, love?” 

“How did I use magic?” Emma asked. “There’s no magic here.” 

“Actually, there’s a little magic here.” Killian said. “You’re just the only one powerful enough to tap into it.” His hand gently grasped her chin, making her look at him. “Are you hurt, my love?” 

“No, I’m fine.” Emma said. “Are you okay?” 

“Not a scratch.” He smiled. “Thanks for saving me, Savior.” His lips landed on her before Emma could respond. A possessive need overcame him as he enthusiastically deepened the kiss.

Emma groaned into him pressing her body against his before remembering he was covered in Walsh. Pulling back, Emma grimaced. “Hold on there, Tiger. I’m not getting naked with you until your clean again.” Just the thought of anything of Walsh touching her grossed her out.

Killian chuckled. “As my lady commands.” He cupped her face gently. “Are you sure you’re all right? You were crying before you came home.”

Emma sighed, leaning into him. “I’m fine. We’ll talk about it after your shower.” She promised. “Now go. The sooner your clean the sooner we can have some fun.” 

When Killian left her alone, Emma took out the broom and began cleaning up the rest of Walsh and the shattered pieces of the memory potion. Without the potion, what were they going to do about Henry? He needed his memories too. She wasn’t going to lie to him; after everything that happened, with Henry already experiencing dreams, he deserved to know everything. More than that, Emma wanted Henry to know about Killian, about their bond, how much he loved his father. She wanted Henry to remember his brother and how excited he was to be a big brother. They could tell him everything tomorrow when she brought him home, of course, but it wasn’t the same as having his memories back. If they were going to face magic and witched, Henry needed his memories to prepare and to protect himself. Maybe Regina could make another potion and they wouldn’t have to worry about it for too long. 

She finished her cleaning and her stomach roared at her. They hadn’t eaten their pizza and it was nearing dinner time, so Emma pulled it out of the fridge and tossed it in the oven to warm it up. Her mind went back to Killian’s words earlier. 

Thanks for saving me, Savior.

He was sincere when he said it, but of course Killian always believed in her. When no one else was in her corner, Killian defended her and lifted her up constantly. Of course, he’d have faith that she could be the Savior. But defeating one flying monkey didn’t make her a Savior. It was luck that her magic came to her aid. What if it hadn’t? Would Killian be hurt or worse? She could’ve lost him. 

The pizza tasted like cardboard as her stomach churned with anxiety. How could she save everyone? 

Strong arms came around her, pulling her back into his chest. “You’re thinking loud enough to wake the dead.” 

Emma sighed, a small smile coming to her face. She turned in his arms, realizing he only wore a towel, her arms locking around his neck. “I’m just brooding.”

“I thought that was my trademark?” Killian teased.

“Ah, but see, you’re over three hundred years old, so brooding is in the public domain now.” Emma smirked. 

“Ha, ha.” Killian rolled his eyes good-naturedly, before turning serious. “What were you thinking about, Emma?”

Her hands drifted down his neck muscles, fingers caressing his skin. It was easier to stare at his chest and play with his chest hair than look at him as she admitted to her shortcomings. “I just…I’m not a Savior. Not really.” 

“What do you mean?” His hand and stump went to her hips, pulling her close. 

“I just broke a curse.” Emma shrugged. “Regina never payed for it. Then Cora comes along and almost kills our son, and Regina stops her. I couldn’t even stop a sociopathic teenager. Rumplestiltskin killed him. A Savior is supposed to be able to save people, and I didn’t do that. How can I save them from the Wicked Witch?”

“Oh, Emma.” Killian knew the burden of being Savior ate away at her and he hated how she doubted herself. “You did save people. You brought back their happy endings. You saved Henry in Neverland. You saved me from myself. Hell, love, you save me every day you allow me to be worthy of your love.” 

She couldn’t help a small smile from forming. He always was her biggest cheerleader. “You have so much faith in me, Killian, but I just don’t feel like a Savior.”

“Who says you have to?” He cupped her chin, making her look at him. “You never asked to be the Savior. It’s not like you trained your whole life to be this beacon of good. You are naturally an amazing, kindhearted person who wants to help people. Don’t let putting a title on it psych you out, and please never think you have to bear this burden alone.” 

Emma carded her fingers through his thick, wiry chest hair. “How do you do that?” She smiled. “You always know just what to say.”

“I only speak the truth.” Killian said. “Most of it just comes from my heart.” 

She leaned up to soundly kiss him. How did she get so lucky to have this wonderful man as her True Love? As she kissed him, her fingers danced down his skin to the towel around his waist, loosening it so that it fell to the floor. 

“Swan.” Killian grinned against her lips. “What are you doing?” 

“I told you we’d have fun after your shower.” Her voice was coy. She kissed along his neck, pushing him back towards the counter for support. 

Killian leaned against the counter as Emma kissed down his chest, sinking to her knees in front of him. His cock twitched as she looked up at him with hooded eyes and a coquettish smirk. 

Her hand curled around him, pumping along his length to help him along. 

He groaned, closing his eyes, desire shooting through him, his blood swimming southward. Opening his eyes, Killian watched intensely as she worked him up. 

“What would you like me to do, Captain?” Emma purred as she continued her ministrations.

He shivered pleasurably at his rank falling from her lips. Her full, pink, wet lips. “I want your mouth on me.” His voice was husky and deep as he gave the order. 

“Do you promise to fuck my mouth if I do?” She teased, a hunger for him gleaming in her eyes. “I’m so very hungry after all.”

Her words went straight to his already straining cock. “Yes. I won’t hold back.”

“Good.” Emma’s mouth quickly went to work taking him all in. 

His head pitched back as she deep throated him. “Fuck.” 

Emma pressed her tongue to the underside of his cock as she pulled back slowly. She suckled the tip, earning a throaty whine for her efforts, before she took him all in again. Emma hummed around him, causing his hips to buck into her. 

Remembering his promise, Killian moved his hips, setting a leisurely pace as she sucked him off. His fingers tangled in her hair, holding her head to him. 

Her thighs rubbed together as she grew wet with desire. Emma took him all the way in again, humming around him before hollowing out her cheeks, slowly dragging her teeth the length of him, breathing through her nose as she focused on her task. 

His grip on her hair tightened as Emma scraped her teeth against his sensitive, throbbing cock. “Emma.” He choked out her name. His gut tightened with need as he picked up the pace, fucking into her hot mouth. 

Emma glanced up to see her fiancé wreaked by her touch, pleased with herself, she swirled her tongue around him, digging her nails into his thighs.

He groaned as her nails marked his skin, a silent tell to increase his pace. 

As he let go, undulating into her at a rapid pace, Emma clutched at his thighs with one hand, securing her position, while her other hand moved to his balls, twisting them ever so slightly. 

A hoarse shout left him as he fucked unrelentingly into her mouth, his release coming upon him faster than he could warn her.  

Once she swallowed all he had to give, her mouth freed him with an obscene pop.

Killian dragged her up by her hair, kissing her fiercely as he backed her into the island. He pulled her shirt up, braking the kiss, tossing it wherever before diving back in for more. His hand impatiently unbuttoned her jeans and he shoved them and her panties down just as quickly before lifting her onto the counter. 

Her bra joined her shirt somewhere, but Emma was preoccupied with pulling Killian closer. “Was my Captain pleased with my services?” She giggled. 

“You’ll be the death of me.” He grumbled amused. His mouth moved along her neck. His hand tweak a nipple hard eliciting a moan from Emma’s lips. 

“More.” Emma wrapped her legs around him, her hot cunt pressing against his abdomen. 

“Now, now.” Killian tisked. “You had your fun, so now it’s my turn.” He pulled her nipple again.

Emma whimpered. 

Killian nipped at her ear. “Be a good girl and let me take care of you.” He kneaded her breast as his stump traveled down her body to her nub. 

Her head tilted back as Killian pressed on her little bundle of nerves. “Killian.” 

His stump moved lower between her slick folds before entering her. 

Emma groaned rapturously at the intrusion. Her toes curled and she keened as he thrusted sedately in and out of her. 

Killian ducked his head down, capturing one of her breasts in his mouth, gratified to see purpling areas on her skin from where he marked her earlier. 

Between his hand, mouth, and stump, Emma lost her self in the pleasurable sensations inflicted on her trembling body. Her climax uncoiled gradually, her body arching towards him, his name nothing more than a pant from her lips. 

When her soul returned to her body, Emma’s stomach growled. 

Killian laughed into her shoulder. “Me thinks we need to eat the damn pizza already.”

“Too tired for another go round, old man?” Emma breathlessly taunted. 

“After we eat, I’ll show you why the old man jokes fall flat.” He huffed with a smile. 

Emma shakily slid off the counter, Killian’s arms around her to steady her footing. 

The couple cleaned themselves up in the bathroom, though neither bothered to dress since they were alone in the apartment, before returning to the kitchen and finally eating the pizza. Still starved, they also finished off Emma’s leftover Chinese from the night before. 

Emma stretched and yawned once they were done. It certainly had been a day with Killian’s arrival and the emotions and physical activities they both endured. God, had he only appeared at her door this morning? 

“Tired, Swan?” Killian asked, hugging her to him. 

“More than I thought I would be.” Emma stifled another yawn, resting her head against his chest as he held her. They really should move to the bedroom before she fell asleep against him. 

Killian chewed the inside of his lip. “There’s something else I need to tell you.” 

“It can’t wait until the morning?” Emma mumbled against him, her eyes closed. 

He hesitated, knowing that she needed to know about her younger sibling, who’d be born soon. It wasn’t news she’d take well and she’d need time to process it. However, she was tired and if he told her now, she’d likely not sleep very well. “Aye, it can. Come on, love, let’s get you to bed.”

They stumbled into her bedroom, Emma plopping face first into her pillow. 

Killian chuckled. “You’ll need to get under the sheets, princess.” 

Emma groaned, rolling back off of the bed to pull the sheets back. 

As Killian stepped next to the bed, he noticed a book on the nightstand. It was orange-brown with red and yellow flowers painted on it. “Is that the journal Belle gave you?” 

She froze, eyes darting to the book. Everything she felt and thought in the last eight months was written in those pages. Sitting on the bed, Emma nodded. “It is.” She whispered, not trusting her voice. So much pain fell into the words she wrote. Swallowing, Emma reached a hand out, indicating for Killian to hand it to her.

He did so, sitting next to her, concerned about her reaction. 

Her fingers brushed the cover. “I…I was struggling when we came to New York.” Tears formed in her eyes. “I know Regina tried to give us happy memories and I’m not sure what happened, but there were some things we remembered that weren’t happy.” She turned to Killian. “I remembered giving birth, but Liam was stillborn in my memories.”

“Emma.” Killian put his arm around her. He couldn’t imagine going through that. Leaving Emma and Henry was one of the most painful and difficult experiences in his life, but at least he knew they were alive. It seemed Emma couldn’t let go of Liam entirely and her mind must’ve excused Liam’s absence in the worst possible way. “I’m so sorry, love.”

“It’s okay now.” Emma gave a watery smile. “I know he’s alive and I’ll see him soon.” She looked back at the journal, making a decision. “There’s some things I don’t think I could relive, but I want you to know everything.” Emma passed the journal to him. “I want you to read it.”

“Are you sure?” Killian reverently took the journal from her. 

“You already know everything about my life.” Emma leaned her head on his shoulder. “This is just one more chapter.” 

Killian kissed the top of her head. “Okay. Thank you, love.” He gently set the journal aside for now, and laid down with Emma in his arms. “What are we telling Henry tomorrow?”

“The truth.” Emma said. “We don’t have the memory potion, but I’m not lying to him. He’s already having dreams of Storybrooke, so he’d figure it out as soon as we returned to town.” Her arms wound tightly around him. “We did promise him not to lie to him after the ordeal with Neal. Besides, he may not remember you, but I want him to know your his dad and that he has a brother.”

Killian held her firmly to him. “We did. Do you think he’ll like me?” 

Emma scoffed. “Killian, Henry’s always loved you. His head may not remember you, but his heart will. I promise.” She closed her eyes as she snuggled further into him. “He loves you, and when we get to Storybrooke, we’ll make sure he remembers everything.” 

“Too right.” Killian said softly. He brushed his hand through Emma’s hair, comforting himself as much as her. Before long, her breathing evened out, letting him know she fell asleep. Killian stared at the ceiling, his thoughts abuzz with what tomorrow would bring. Sleep struggled to find him, but he tried to remain still as to not wake Emma. Unfortunately, he grew restless after a couple of hours attempting to sleep. 

Carefully, he delicately rolled Emma off of him, ensuring she was comfortable and tucked in before he snuck out of bed, getting dressed in a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt, taking her journal with him to the living room. 

He settled onto the couch and began reading. His heart broke reading over her painful memories, the confusion of her memories infecting her dreams, the loss of her baby, knowing she was missing something, grief overcoming her. 

Killian read for hours, lost in her words, knowing now where Henry received his writing talent, invested in knowing all his beautiful, incredible Swan went through to better understand her. His love for her continued to grow, seeing the strength in her words, the determination to rebuild her life, the depth of her love for Henry and how she wanted to protect him from grief and their strange dreams. 

He wasn’t quite finished when the sun came up and Emma padded into the room wearing his pirate shirt. 

“Have you been up all night?” She yawned, joining him on the couch. 

“I couldn’t sleep, so I decided to do some reading.” Killian made note of where he was in the journal before closing it and setting it onto the table. He turned to Emma, pulling her into his arms and kissing her soundly. 

The intensity of his kiss surprised her, but Emma eagerly returned his fervor. Gasping for air minutes later, Emma reluctantly broke their embrace. “What was that for?” She breathed. 

“I love you.” Killian said, pressing his forehead to hers. “You are the strongest, bravest, most incredible woman I’ve ever met.” He brushed her wild, untamed curls out of her eyes. “Even though the memories of your loss weren’t real, that didn’t make them less real to you. You survived so much and continued to suffer, and I’m so proud of your ability to keep going on with life without any bitterness tainting your heart.”

A lump formed in her throat as his love for her overwhelmed her. After such a shitty childhood and a lackluster young adulthood, fate bringing this man into her life more than made up for the hand she was dealt. “I don’t know about that.” She deflected, looking down at her hands. “I just pushed through everything for Henry.”

“You never give yourself enough credit, Emma.” Killian said, gently taking her hand in his. “You are so much more than you believe yourself to be. I wish you could see what I see.” 

“I don’t need to.” Emma smiled. “I have you. You’re my biggest cheerleader next to Henry. Between the pair of you, I sometimes get the idea.” She leaned back, wiping away a few stray tears. “Speaking of Henry, I better get dressed. I told him I’d pick him up for breakfast. There’s an artisanal donut shop we’ve been eyeing for a special occasion, so I’ll pick up a box.”

Killian let Emma retreat for now, but he’d never stop reminding her how amazing she was, especially in her darkest moments. He winced as he remembered he still needed to tell her about Snow’s pregnancy. He needed to do so before she left, to give her time to process it, before they talked to Henry so she’d be prepared. 

Emma returned about fifteen minutes later in jeans, a pink plaid shirt, and her boots. “Okay, I’m off.” She grabbed her purse and keys from the front table. 

Killian hurried over to her. “Emma, wait, there’s something you need to know.”

She paused, a curious look in her eyes. “Is this the thing that you wanted to tell me last night?”

“Aye.” Killian grimaced. “I didn’t finish dropping bombs yesterday.” 

“Well, it can’t be bigger than your brother being back and Marco’s passing.” Emma sighed. She took a breath and braced herself. “Okay, lay it on me.”

“Snow’s pregnant.” There. Bandaid, ripped off. “About seven months along.”

Her stomach dropped to the floor. Swallowing, Emma whispered. “My parents are having a baby?” Suddenly Emma found herself back in the Echo Caves, her mother’s words ringing in her ears. I resent Emma. I need a fresh start. I want another child that I can raise. Emma shook herself. “I should go get Henry.”

Emma ran before he could stop her. 

Her feet hurriedly carried her to her car. She slammed the door once she was inside, her breathing ragged and panicked. 

Her parents were having another kid. Pressing her hands to her eyes, Emma tried to calm herself. Don’t be selfish. You knew this was going to happen. 

In the hospital after Liam was born, Snow made amends with her. They buried the hatchet on the issue. Or, well, Emma thought she buried it. Hell, she told Snow that she had every right to try for another kid. 

“Come on, Emma.” She whispered to herself. “You’re not an orphan anymore. They won’t replace you just because of the new baby.” But the Swans did that. She didn’t often think about her first set of parents, first set she remembered anyway, despite carrying their surname with her. Killian once asked her why she never changed it after learning what the Swans did to her and Emma said it was because she wanted to prove her worth in spite of them. She kept the name and made it her own. 

Even so, in this moment, she felt like she was three years old again, watching their green, wood paneled Ford Pinto driving away, leaving her and a small suitcase with a stranger, her case worker she later learned. 

“Emma, sweetie, we’re going on a trip.” Mommy smiled at her when she picked her up in her arms. Daycare was over and Emma wanted to share her picture. 

“Look, Mommy.” Emma waved a drawing of a house with two adults, a little girl, and a kitty cat. “I drew you and Daddy and Nugget.”

Mommy’s stopped smiling as she took the picture away. “That’s nice, Emma. Come on, Daddy is waiting in the car.”

“I don’t want to feel like this.” She berated herself through tears she couldn’t stop, hitting the steering wheel angrily. “Mom and Dad aren’t the Swans.” They aren’t, they aren’t, they aren’t. “They aren’t replacing me.” She sniffled. “I’m good enough.” Not good enough. They don’t love you. They want their baby, not someone who’s broken. 

Emma leaned back, taking a deep breath. “Stop it. Stop it. You are not an orphan.” She reaffirmed. “Mom and Dad love you. This baby is not a replacement.” Her words felt hollow and her chest constricted. 

Her cell phone rang. It was Henry. Clearing her throat, Emma answered. “Hey, kid, I’m on my way.” Though she’d definitely need to make a stop somewhere to wash her face so Henry wouldn’t see that she was upset. “I’m fine, yeah, everything’s okay. No, I promise. I’m driving, so let me let you go. I’ll see you soon.” She wasn’t lying to lie, but Henry didn’t need to be burdened with her baggage, especially over the phone. No, she’d talk to Killian about how she was feeling later. 

She just needed some time to deal with the news first. 

Starting her car, Emma first drove to Starbucks for their bathroom, buying herself a bottle of water, planning to get coffee at the donut shop after seeing Henry. She gulped her water down on the way to Avery’s, hoping it would ease her throat and she’d sound happier when she picked him up. 

Henry came running out as soon as she parked in front of the apartment building, obviously waiting for her with Avery’s mom. Emma waved and smiled at Hannah as Henry jumped into the car. 

“Okay, what’s wrong?” Henry asked, concern all over his face. 

“Nothing’s wrong.” Emma said. “Something did happen yesterday, but a good something. I promise.”

“What happened?” Henry asked, now confused. He knew his mother was upset earlier when he called. She sounded like she’d been crying.

“Donuts and hot chocolate first.” Emma said. “I think it’s time for us to try Bean There, Donut That.” 

Henry tilted his head. “Is this a special occasion?” 

Emma chuckled. “You could say that.” 

They arrived at the coffee shop ten minutes later. Henry excitedly chose one of eight wild flavors, excited to try different things, and Emma was glad to limit it to a box of six, because the donuts were huge and more than enough for the three of them. Plus, she really wasn’t sure how Henry would feel about some of the flavors. She added a hot chocolate with cinnamon for Henry, a white chocolate mocha for herself, and a caramel latte for Killian. 

Henry eyed the third drink suspiciously. 

They grabbed their purchases and headed back to the car.

“So who’s the third drink for?” Henry wasted no time in interrogating her. 

He definitely inherited my tact. Emma sighed. “Okay, so um, you know those strange dreams we’ve been having?” She pulled out of the parking spot into the busy road. 

“Yeah.” Henry said. “Are we going to Maine to find answers?” 

“We are.” Emma said. “There’s more though. So, um,” She breathed deep. This was the hard part. “Henry, you asked if it was magic that did this to us. Well, turns out it was. We lost our memories because of a curse.”

“I knew it!” Henry exclaimed triumphantly. “There was a curse in my dreams, and magic. You had magic!”

“I have magic.” Emma corrected. “Henry, when we get home, I’ll go into more details, but there is someone waiting for us. He’s my fiancé, your step-dad, though you call him Dad and everyone we know treats you as his son and vice versa.”

“I have a dad?” Henry asked. “Wait, I have a brother too, don’t I? The baby you lost? He was alive in my dreams.” 

“Yes, Henry.” Emma smiled, happy tears building in her eyes. “Liam is waiting for us in Maine.”

“Why didn’t he come with Dad?” Henry asked. “What’s Dad like? Is he cool?”

“He was safer with your uncle.” Emma said, though now knowing it was Blackbeard and not August, she wasn’t too sure about that. She knew Killian trusted Blackbeard and would trust Killian’s judgement, but she’d still get to know the man herself when they returned home. “You think your dad is the coolest person. He taught you how to sail his pirate ship and his sail boat. He taught you how to fish and use a sword. You love him so much.” 

“Dad’s a pirate!” Henry shouted with enthusiasm. “Are you serious? That’s so freaking cool!”

“Your dad’s going to be relieved you think so.” Emma laughed. 

They finally made it to their apartment building and Henry practically sprinted out of the car with the box of donuts. Emma hoped he didn’t drop the box. They carried their breakfast to the elevator and rode up in what must’ve been the longest ride of Henry’s life since the kid couldn’t stop jumping up and down with excitement. 

The elevator doors barely opened wide enough before Henry slipped through, darting down the hallway. Emma hurried after him. 

Henry paused before the door to their apartment, suddenly anxious. “Does he like me?” 

“Henry, Killian loves you so, so much.” Emma said. “He practically raised you in Storybrooke. You are his son, okay?”

Henry swallowed, but nodded and put on a brave face. 

Emma opened the door and they entered to find Killian nervously pacing the kitchen. 

Killian stopped suddenly, taking in the sight of Henry, now all of twelve, and about three inches taller since Killian last saw him.

Nervously, Henry approached, setting the box of donuts on the counter, never taking his eyes off of Killian. “Hi, I’m Henry.”

“I know.” Killian said softly, his eyes shining. “I’m…”

“My dad.” Henry said. “I know. I mean, not my biological dad, but a better dad.” He stumbled over his words not sure how to act around this stranger, though he knew the man from his dreams and his heart felt nothing but affection and love for the man in front of him. 

“You seem to think so.” Killian chuckled, his voice thick with emotion.

An overwhelming urge to hug Killian overcame him, so Henry went with it, throwing his arms around the man’s middle. 

Killian returned the hug instinctively, cupping the back of Henry’s head. “I missed you so much, Henry.” 

“I think I missed you too.” Henry mumbled. The two stayed like that for a moment before Henry pulled away. “We brought donuts.” He said shyly. “I didn’t know we were getting them for three, so I don’t know if you’ll like them.”

“That’s okay.” Killian reassured. He turned to Emma. “Does he know everything?”

“Not yet.” Emma told him. She handed Killian his coffee. “Let’s sit down, eat and talk.” 

They gathered around the table with the donuts and their drinks. Emma took a breath and started from the beginning with her twenty-eighth birthday, a wish, and a knock on her door. 

It took a few hours to explain their history, especially as Henry had questions, but eventually they reached Pan’s curse and Killian briefly touched on some of the happenings in the Enchanted Forest. 

Henry took it all in, pushing away the last bites of his creme brûlée donut. “So, the Wicked Witch is real too, and you have to stop her?”

“Seems that way, kid.” Emma said. “But the good thing is that we get to go home. We’ll get your memories back, you’ll see your brother, grandparents, and aunts and uncles again. You’ll have your friends back too.” 

That brought a small smile to Henry’s face, though it was clear he was still processing everything. It was a lot for anyone to digest let alone a twelve year old. “Are we leaving then?”

“Go pack a bag.” Emma said. “As much as you can anyway. We’ll have to leave the big stuff for later.” 

Henry nodded and left his parents alone, lost in his own thoughts. 

Emma watched him with worry. “Do you think he’s all right?” 

“He’s always taken things in stride.” Killian said. “Even so, he’s learned that what he thought was his life was a lie, that magic is real, and that his mother’s about to head into very real danger.”

“Aren’t we all?” Emma sighed. “I hope I can live up to everyone's idea of me.”

Killian grasped her hand in his. “You already have, love.” 

“Cheerleader.” She teased. 

“Always.” Killian said. “Are you okay?” They’d yet to discuss her future sibling. 

Knowing what he meant, Emma nodded. “I will be. I still have old wounds to work through.”

“I’m always a willing ear.” He reminded her, bringing her hand to his lips to kiss her knuckles. “Lean on me when you need, yeah?”

“I will.” Emma said. “Now, I need to go pack. The sooner we leave, the sooner we get to be home.” 

As she headed to her room, Emma squared her shoulders. 

It was time to don her armor and take up her mantle. 

“I don’t think so either, Gracie.” August sighed. “But we can’t go back. She doesn’t want us there right now.” Zelena gave him a lot to think about and he needed time to process. He figured Zelena also wanted to be alone for a reason. 

Grace opened her mouth to protect, but August quickly cut her off. 

“You know how sometimes you’re feeling bad about something and you don’t want to talk about it?” August asked. 

Grace nodded. After all, she went through her lack of contact with her friends and losing Henry. Those were some rough months. 

“Well, I think Zelena is struggling with something.” August said. “I think she needs time, okay?” Struggling with being good, maybe? Or was there something else? Zelena was so close to coming back with him, but something changed her mind. 

“I just don’t want to give up on her.” Grace said. Zelena was her friend and friends were supposed to be there for support. Maybe August had a point, but Grace still didn’t like it. 

“Grace!” Jefferson called out, catching their attention. 

Jefferson and Belle walked closer to them.

“We’ve been looking all over for you.” Jefferson said. “Where have you been?” His expression was a mixture of concern and sternness. He definitely wanted answers. 

Grace looked to August at a loss as to what to say. 

Great, it’s time to be a responsible adult. August thought, though he hoped Grace wouldn’t be mad at him. He wasn’t going to lie to Jefferson. “Don’t be mad, but Grace wanted to talk with Zelena, and I went with her.” 

Grace winced. Okay, so no lying this time. Papa was going to be mad. 

“What?” Jefferson glared. “You took my daughter to see the Wicked Witch?” What the hell was August thinking? Didn’t he have any idea how dangerous that was? 

“No, Papa.” Grace said, stepping in to defend August. “I ran off and Uncle August followed. He tried to bring me home, but I wanted to get answers. Zelena was my friend.” 

Jefferson regarded his daughter for a moment, before sighing. Grace struggled since their return to the Enchanted Forest, and Jefferson knew that Lena, or Zelena, really bonded with Grace and helped her get through it, but she was still evil and was plotting against them. “I understand that, but you can’t run off and confront someone with the magic she has. I’m glad August was with you, but neither of you have enough means to defend yourselves against her.”

Grace looked down at her father’s disappointed tone. “I know. I wasn’t thinking about that. I didn’t think she would attack us, and she didn’t. She sent us back here.”

Belle and Jefferson shared a look. That was interesting. At least, they were both safe, but why wouldn’t Zelena harm them? 

“She just sent you back?” Belle asked. Holding them hostage would’ve been incredibly beneficial to Zelena. Grace said she hadn’t attacked them either. Belle wondered what that meant. 

Jefferson was curious too, and seeing August’s contrite expression, he figured that maybe Zelena had a heart after all. He’d talk more with August later, and they’d have to discuss not letting a twelve-year-old convince him to run off to a witch’s lair. “Be that as it may, we still need to talk about your independent streak. Come on, let’s go find your mom and we’ll talk about your punishment.”

Grace pouted but understood it. She hugged August tightly. “Thanks for going with me, Uncle August.”

August returned the hug. “You can always count on me, Gracie.” 

As Grace walked over to her father, Jefferson sent a look which told August that they were going to talk more later. August nodded in response. It wasn’t a lecture he was looking forward to having, but he understood. He was the adult after all. 

Belle walked over to him after father and daughter headed into the castle. “How are you doing?” 

August shrugged. “Shouldn’t I be asking you that?” Belle was the one who’d been through recent trauma. What he was going through with Zelena didn’t hold a candle to that. He’d eventually deal with his own issues, but whatever Belle went through, she needed all the support she could get from them. 

“I’m…doing better.” Belle said uncertain. “Slow progress, you know?” She grimaced at her words, unsure of how to discuss her own situation. Not talking about it was too much, but talking about it at all wasn’t something that she was ready for and she doubted she’d ever be ready for it. 

“That’s good.” August sighed. His heart wanted to reach out to Zelena, to get her side, but his head couldn’t trust it. He wasn’t sure he could trust her, even though she hadn’t attacked them and seemed so uncertain about her own villainy. After a moment of silence between them, August voiced his thoughts. “When we went to see Zelena, it was like she didn’t want to be our enemy. Do you think she has changed? I just…I don’t want to be played again.”

Belle considered his words. It was odd that Zelena seemed so unwilling to attack August and Grace or use them for her own gain, but could it be that Zelena had a change of heart? “I don’t know, August. I wasn’t around. I do know that villains are capable of change. Look at Killian, Rumple, and Regina. They all changed for those they loved.” Rumple tried so hard for her. Even when he had his setbacks, he still attempted to be a better man. It wasn’t until his passing that she realized that three-hundred-years of being the Dark One was a hard habit to break. “Rumple even sacrificed his own life for us.”

August froze. Didn’t anyone tell Belle about Rumple? Crap. “Uh, Belle, did…did anyone tell you?” Why did it have to be him? 

“Tell me what?” Belle didn’t like how August paled. 

“We think Rumple is alive.” August said carefully. “He sent a note about Zelena and Regina recognized his handwriting.” He braced himself for her reaction, knowing that it wasn’t going to be a good one. 

Belle’s blood froze, a chill settled over her. That wasn’t possible. It couldn’t be unless…had Neal succeeded? Had he resurrected his father? If he had, then…a price was paid. Did that mean Neal was dead? 

“Belle?” August worried about the shock on her face. Great, I broke her, again. 

“If Rumple is alive, then…” Belle swallowed. “Neal resurrected him, which means Neal is dead.” She shook her head. “I need to find Regina.” She hurried off, leaving a shocked August in her wake. 

*****************************

David considered Snow’s words for a long moment. She told him everything Regina said about the Land Without Magic and the Dark Curse. Worse, how the Dark Curse was there only option to bring Emma and Henry home. He wasn’t sure what to think other than, of course they’d have such rotten luck.

Why did there always have to be a Curse?

“If the Curse is the only way to open up the realms,” David started. “Then someone is going to have to sacrifice themselves.” It wasn’t something they could ask anyone to do. It was their daughter who was the Savior. Could they rightfully ask Jefferson or Ruby to sacrifice each other? Aurora or Mulan? Marco or August? It wouldn’t be right. 

Unfortunately, that would mean… David swallowed. He’d have to be the one. 

Snow sighed. “We have to figure out who. It’s a lot to ask someone.” Though it didn’t seem fair to ask anyone to do it, but after everything their family had been through, she didn’t want to lose David. Was that selfish? Absolutely, but she’d had enough loss for a lifetime. Emma grew up without them, they missed out on raising Emma, but Snow would not allow this baby to miss either their mother, father, or sister. Their family would be whole. 

David paused, knowing he needed to broach this carefully. “Snow,” He started, kneeling in front of where she sat in an armchair. “We can’t ask anyone to make such a choice for us.” He hated it; hated the very idea of dying. But they needed Emma. They needed her a lot more than they needed him. 

“No.” Snow shook her head. “I’m not going to crush your heart.” She wouldn’t, couldn’t, do it. “Our baby, Emma, Henry, Liam, and Killian need you. I need you. We missed out raising Emma and our family being together. I won’t have our next child missing out on anything.” Snow pushed herself up out of the chair, slowly, but she got to her feet and walked away from David. Her feet carried her to the open window. A hot breeze blew in, the August heat would normally be stifling if the castle wasn’t always so cold. 

There was a silence before David walked over to her side. “We can’t ask our friends to make this kind of sacrifice. I know it’s not fair to us, but it wouldn’t be fair to them either.” David said. “I know we’ve been through it, the Curse, losing Emma twice, losing Henry, you losing your parents when you were so young, everything Regina put us through, it’s been so much. But we’ve also been so lucky to have our epic love story, and two children and grandchildren. We’re well ahead of everyone else we know. Shouldn’t they be able to have those opportunities?” 

Snow sighed, tears forming in her eyes. Though he had good points, sometimes Snow hated how noble her husband was, even if it was also one of the traits she loved the most about him. “Well, I know where Emma gets her selflessness from.” She shook her head. “Why is it always us, Charming?” Why did it have to be again? 

“I wish I had an answer for that.” David wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close as her tears fell, hating himself for making her cry. 

“I don’t know if I can do this.” Snow sniffed. “Crushing your heart would be like killing myself.” 

David held tightly, not sure how to comfort her. He didn’t want to die. He wanted to be there for their baby, wanted to reunite with Emma and Henry, wanted to see their child and Liam grow up together, but this was their path. They couldn’t let anyone else cast the curse, no matter how unfair it was to them. “I know.”

Snow cried into his chest as their decision was made. 

*****************************

“Regina.” 

Regina winced hearing Robin call out to her. They hadn’t talked since he kissed her, which was by Regina’s design. She refused to be alone with him again.

It wasn’t a bad kiss; in fact, it was incredible. It awoke long dormant feelings that scared the shit out of her. Regina knew she was undeserving of love and Robin, and Roland for that matter, deserved better than her. She didn’t want Robin to get ideas. 

“Regina, hey.” Robin caught up with her. 

Surely he wouldn’t want to discuss this while they were walking down the hallway where anyway could hear their conversation. “Hi, Robin.” Regina greeted, keeping her eyes forward. What excuse could she come up with to avoid him? “I was just on my way to gather ingredients.” Not entirely a lie.

“Could we talk a moment?” Robin implored, his expression pleading. 

“I really should…” Regina stopped herself. What could it hurt to hear him out? So long as she shot him down, then they could put their kiss behind them. “All right,” she stopped and turned to face him. “What is it?” 

Robin felt triumph. He knew she’d been avoiding him since their kiss; he’d take the small victories. “I wanted to talk.” 

Regina’s lips twitched. “Yes, you mentioned that.” 

“About our kiss…” Robin started. Come on, Locksley, be brave. He took a breath and spoke his truth. “I just wanted to tell you that it meant more to me than just being a kiss.” 

Her heart skipped. What exactly did he mean by that? Regina shook her head. “It can’t be more than just a kiss.” She couldn’t let him think there were feelings there. There were, of course, and Regina knew she’d come a long way after all these months back in the Enchanted Forest, but there were people who still feared her or suspected the worst. She didn’t want Robin and Roland affected by her reputation. 

“Why not?” Robin asked. “Don’t tell me you don’t feel the same as I do. I know you do.” Robin stepped closer to her. 

Regina sighed. “Robin, I just don’t think us being together is a good idea.” How could she convince him that she was bad for him?

“I think you’re just trying to protect yourself.” Robin said. “You’ve shut away your own heart for so long, you’re afraid to trust someone else with it.”

Oof. Well, he was hitting the nail on the head. Regina truly did want to protect Robin and Roland from her reputation, but was that all? After Daniel, when Tink came to her to help her find her True Love, Regina let her anger, grief, and fear rule her decisions. She lived in her bitter emotions for so long. She remembered standing outside the tavern, seeing the lion tattoo, her heart in her throat, thinking how could her True Love ever love her? 

She tried to earn her mother’s love, only receiving cruelty. She tried to be a good wife to Leopold, only to be ignored. Even Snow, while kind, was more often with her father. Regina was all alone. 

Her father showed her what love he could, though he cowered to her mother’s power. Daniel showed her love and a taste of freedom, but her mother proved that love was a weakness and it certainly wasn’t meant to last. 

How could she explain all of that to Robin? As much as she felt for him too, what would happen if her True Love ever showed up again? She couldn’t hurt Robin like that. What if Marian hadn’t been Robin’s True Love? What if someone better was out there for him? 

“I’m poison, Robin.” Regina sighed. “I destroy everything I touch. I ruined Henry’s life, my first love died because of me, I took away everyone’s happy endings…”

“You’re not that person anymore.” Robin said, hands coming to her forearms, gently pulling her to him. “You’ve changed for the better. You’ve worked so hard. Don’t let your past decide your future.” 

Regina looked down at her feet, shaking her head. “You might believe that, but not everyone else is as kind.” As her eyes moved up to look at him, they caught sight of something on Robin’s wrist. Regina turned her head slightly to get a better look and froze. 

On Robin’s wrist was the same lion tattoo of her True Love. Her soulmate. In the exact same place.

How many people in the Enchanted Forest had that lion tattoo?

Regina swallowed, finding her voice. “I didn’t know you had a tattoo.”

A little confused about the abrupt change of subject, Robin looked at his tattoo. “Yes, it’s a simplified version of the Locksley family crest. A reminder of where I come from and why I left my titles and noble life behind.” 

His family crest? Regina took a step back, Robin’s hands dropping from her. If it was his family crest, it was very unlikely anyone else had the same tattoo, which meant… Her heart raced. 

Robin was her True Love. 

Holy shit. 

“Regina!” Belle ran towards her, thankfully interrupting any further conversation with Robin.

Shaking away her shock, Regina turned to her best friend. “Belle, what’s wrong?”

“August just told me that Rumple might be alive.” Belle was a bit out of breath, red-faced from running. 

Regina grimaced. “After everything you’ve been through, I was hoping to prove Rumple was alive for certain before telling you. I mean, he sent a note and I believe it was his handwriting, but that’s not foolproof evidence.”

“Neal planned to resurrect his father.” Belle said. “We haven’t heard from Neal since he left for his father’s castle. I can only assume that if Rumple is alive…”

Regina’s expression turned grim. “Then Neal must’ve succeeded.” 

“What does that mean?” Robin asked. “Is Neal all right?” Though he didn’t really care for Neal after the stunts the man pulled in Neverland, but he didn’t wish ill on the man…okay, he didn’t wish death on the man. If Neal paid a price for magic, then perhaps he deserved it.

“Unfortunately, I don’t think so.” Regina admitted. “Resurrection magic is dark magic. The darkest and most impossible magic. If Neal succeeded then the price was very likely his own life.” 

Her words only distressed Belle. “I should’ve stopped him.” Tears came to her eyes.

“Belle, Neal made his choice.” Regina put her arm comfortingly around her friend. “Neal was a grown man. If he wanted his father back, I doubt you could’ve stopped him.” 

“Regina’s right.” Robin reassured. “Neal’s choices were his own.” Damn him for making Belle feel at fault. After everything the poor woman suffered, she didn’t need unnecessary guilt on her conscience. 

Belle wanted to take comfort in her friends’ reassurances, but she couldn’t help putting the blame on herself. She was with Neal. She should’ve stopped him. That was on her.

“Hey, stop thinking like that.” Regina saw the guilt weighing Belle down. “You couldn’t stop him, okay?” Wanting to distract Belle from thoughts of Neal, Regina changed the subject. “Come on, I need some ingredients for the Curse. Some help would be nice.”

Belle reluctantly nodded, still lost in her thoughts. 

Regina turned to Robin. “We’ll talk later.”

As the women walked away, Robin sensed that later wasn’t going to come unless he kept confronting her. Though should he? Should he keep pursuing her or give her time? His heart told him to go after what he wanted, but he didn’t want to pressure her. Regina was a one of a kind woman and he didn’t want to push her away by wanting more than she was ready for; perhaps patience was the best course of action. He could be patient for her. 

He only hoped that he wouldn’t have to wait too much longer. 

*****************************

“Hey.” Jefferson appeared at his side.

August winced. Time for that talk then. “Hey, look, I know I should’ve been the responsible adult and brought Grace back, but…”

“But you wanted answers.” Jefferson said. He understood that much. August felt something for Zelena and her betrayal stung. While he was mad, after a long talk with Grace and Ruby, in which it was agreed that Grace was grounded for a month, meaning helping Granny with any and all chores, Jefferson came to understand how affected Grace was by Zelena's ruse. August's moping clued him in to how much it bothered his friend. At least August was sorry for being an idiot. Jefferson couldn't fault him for wanting to see Zelena and find out the truth. “I get that. You really like her, don’t you?”

“I’m not sure.” August admitted. “I liked Lena, I liked her a lot and thought...but I don’t know how real Lena was, or if everything was a lie.” He turned towards Jefferson, quickly changing the subject, not wanting to lament his love life. "I still shouldn't have gone along with Grace. I wanted to drag her back to the castle." He would never let Grace walk all over him again...he hoped. 

"You shouldn't have." Jefferson agreed. "But I'm learning my daughter is a strong-willed, independent girl. I'm already terrified of what the teenage years will bring if the preteen ones are this difficult." He shuddered slightly at the idea. Grace was going to make him go grey before he reached his forties. "To be honest, I'm glad you found her. Even though you don't have magic, you being with her was better than her being alone." Jefferson crossed his arms over his chest, a stern expression in place. "That being said, if Grace ever attempts something like this again..."

"I will take her to you, Ruby, or Granny kicking and screaming even if she hates me for it." August nodded in agreement. "Mostly because I don't want to be werewolf chow."

Jefferson smirked. "Good man." He relaxed his stance and patted August on the back. "Now let's talk about Zelena." His friend wasn't getting out of this talk that easy. 

August grimaced. What was there to talk about? Zelena lied and August was confused as hell over it. 

"Come on, man." Jefferson said. "You can't keep moping. Talk it out, and let's figure out what you want to do." After a pause, Jefferson added, "Don't make me get Killian involved."

"You're going to rat to my brother?" August huffed. "What are you going to do? Get Regina to magic him back here from his mission to reunite with his soulmate to solve his brother's small problems?"

"Maybe." Jefferson said. "He's good at advice, particularly with love. I'm lucky I managed to get Ruby's attention." Jefferson leaned against the window frame. "I mean would you rather me get David? He's more accessible, but he's more..."

"True Love must be fought for?" August sighed. "Killian would probably tell me to figure out if I want to find out if Zelena wasn't entirely lying. If she was, forget her, lean on your family for support. If she wasn't, and she feels something for me, then..."

"A man unwilling to fight for what he wants, deserves what he gets." Jefferson quoted, hearing that phrase many a time during intense pool matches at The Rabbit Hole. Really, he said it often enough, Jefferson figured they needed to make t-shirts and sell them. Not a bad idea for extra cash. Maybe after the next Curse, he could start a graphic tee business with all of his friends' annoying quotes. "Well, I guess you need to figure out if it's True Love or not before you pick which advice to follow."

August looked out the window, wondering the best course of action. When he and Grace confronted Zelena though, he could've sworn that she wasn't acting. "Zelena said that maybe she was playing us at first. I think it became real for her at some point." His heart hoped it was real for her. He really liked her and before the fire, he was going to ask to court her. He wanted so badly to see her again. 

"Then fight for her." Jefferson said. "At least if you convince her to be with you, then we won't have to worry about casting the Dark Curse and getting Emma back to defeat her."

"Ah, so that's why your pro-Zelena?" August joked. "Love conquers all, even wickedness?"

"I wouldn't say that." Jefferson shrugged. "But hey, Regina changed her stripes. Rumplestiltskin pulled a heroic sacrifice, though he's back now. Hook is one of the biggest heroes around. Villains can change. Though it also would be nice to not have one of our friends die for the Curse."

August nodded. "Did anyone volunteer?"

Jefferson sighed. "Not yet, but the meeting is in a couple of hours. I'm sure someone will and we can argue with them all we want, but if Zelena still plans to act against us, then what choice do we have?" He stood straighter. "I'm going to leave you to brood. Though careful about how much you do that, otherwise your really will start looking like Killian."

"Killian doesn't own the trademark on brooding." August huffed, though he couldn't help a small smile appearing on his face. 

"Ha, right." Jefferson said. "Tell him that. You two really are brothers." He shook his head, walking away, leaving August to his thoughts. 

August wondered about Jefferson's words. Could he really convince Zelena to side with them? Could he be the one to stop her and save someone's life in the process? 

It was quite a burden to carry, and August wondered if Emma felt like this when acting as the Savior. It wasn't fair to do all of this just to bring her back because of her destiny. It should be done to bring her back to their family. To bring back just Emma and Henry, not the Savior. 

August needed to figure out what to do and fast. 

*****************************

Zelena kept replaying August’s words over and over. Had he meant it? Did he really want her side of the story? He said he wanted another chance, but did he mean he wanted to be her friend or something more? Her heart fluttered at the thought. Did he feel something for her? 

She scoffed at her own thoughts. Why would he want something more? He couldn't feel more than possibly friendship for her. She was the Wicked Witch, which meant she was entirely unlovable. Her adopted father hated her, Cora abandoned her, Regina rejected her. No one loved her. It didn't matter that she loved August, he could only ever see her as a villain.

Zelena froze mid-stride, almost losing her footing, her entire being jolting as if struck by lightning. Did she just think that? She loved August? No, no, she couldn't possibly...

Her heart raced at the thought. Did she love him? Thinking about him sent butterflies dancing in her stomach. He made her smile and laugh so much when they'd spend time together. But love? Was that love? Zelena smiled widely. She did love him. She loved August Booth. Pure giddiness filled her being. She was in love. Oh, this is why love was so wanted. It felt so good. 

Crap. Zelena shook herself. What was she doing? She was the Wicked Witch. She terrorized Oz for years. She...oh who was she kidding. Being Lena was the happiest she'd ever been, and part of that was due to the friendships she made and the man she loved. 

What was she still doing here? 

Zelena turned around, determined to leave this castle and go to August, only to come face to face with King George. Scowling, Zelena crossed her arms. "What are you doing here?"

"I've come to deliver news." George said, looking none too happy. Whether it was because of his news or Zelena, she didn't know. "The heroes think that only the Savior can stop you." He watched her reaction carefully. 

"So what?" Zelena shrugged. "The Savior is in the Land Without Magic. There isn't a portal they can use to get to her." Though she figured eventually they'd figure out that getting to the Land Without Magic via Neverland was a workaround, but they'd need a pegasus sail without Pan's shadow and fairy dust was dying out, so she doubted the fairies would offer it. 

"They plan on casting the Dark Curse." George said. Her lack of concern irritated him. He knew she was weak; why did no one understand that love was a weakness and power was all that mattered? He was glad he planned for this. After seeing her interactions with the puppet and the Mad Hatter's brat, George just knew that Zelena would be too weak to aid him further. It was time to get her out of the way. "They want to return everyone to Storybrooke. We can use this to our advantage."

"Oh, you think so?" Zelena arched a brow. Just what was he playing at?

“If we intercept the Dark Curse, we could make it our own.” George said, ignoring the shadowed figured moving silently behind her. “You and I can have all of the power.”

“You’d share power?” Zelena asked, unconvinced. “Please, you and I both know you’ve been using me for my magic and to get to the Dark One. You’re a pathetic, bitter old man, who can’t get over losing your throne.” 

George reined in his temper. How dare this witch speak to him that way? He was and will always be a King. “All I need from you is to alter the Curse. Let them do the work, but change it so that we're in charge of the town and they are nothing more than our slaves.” Nottingham needed to hurry. He didn't want Zelena to realize the ambush.  

“No.” Zelena said. “In fact, I think you’ve been enough of a thorn in…” Something hard hit her head and Zelena fell to the ground, unconscious. 

Nottingham dropped the scepter he found lying around. “Now what?”

George held his tongue of criticism. He didn't need Nottingham going against him too. George smirked. “Now, we find the Dark One dagger.” 

*****************************

David entered the Council room, gripping Snow’s hand. He didn’t want to do this; he didn’t want to die. However, he couldn’t in good conscience let anyone else make the necessary sacrifice. Even if it meant never meeting his second born, or seeing Emma, Henry, Killian, and Liam again. Leaving Snow alone to raise their child made him sick to his stomach, but he knew she’d have the support she’d need. 

He just missed out on so much already. He wasn’t ready to die. 

Everyone was sitting, waiting for him and Snow to join, all ready to discuss the plan. He pulled Snow’s chair out for her. He looked around at his friends, his family. 

Jefferson and Ruby sat across from him, ready to draw up battle plans if necessary. He adored his dearest friends and hoped they would back his decision. 

Next to Ruby, Granny looked both stern and worried. Marco was next to her, his expression contemplative. Both were the supportive parental figures they all needed as most of them were orphans just trying to figure out their lives. 

Then there was August, who David couldn’t help but grow to like as August did all he could to make up for leaving Emma. 

Regina was grim yet determined. Her turn around truly amazed David and he was so proud of her.

Mulan was stoic as ever, though she glanced worriedly at Aurora, who appeared exhausted and rather frail. They helped everyone so much, opening their homes to refugees, even though it resulted in them losing so much. 

Robin, who’d become such a good friend and counsel with Killian away, looking ready to follow orders. 

Belle, who’d been through so much, but who was still determined to give her aid. 

David took a breath and started. “So we all know that we need Emma to stop Zelena and that means casting another Dark Curse…”

“No.” Ruby interrupted. “You are not sacrificing yourself.” Her green eyes pierced him. There was no way she was letting David be a self-sacrificing hero. 

Damn her for knowing him so well. “Yes, I am.”

“Oh great, you’re being noble.” Jefferson groaned. “Someone go get Killian to knock some sense into him.” Though Killian would probably yell first and then punch David. Jefferson seriously considered punching David if it meant knocking out the self-sacrificing part of his personality. 

Regina was sorely tempted to do just that, but first, maybe they could convince David without resorting to Killian. “David, there’s no way we can let you do this.” 

“Who else can?” David snapped. “I’m not going to ask any of you to sacrifice yourselves or your loved ones.”

“You shouldn’t assume you’re the only one willing to make that sacrifice.” Regina huffed. “I would if I was the person someone loved the most, but I don’t have anyone. You have a baby on the way and how do you think Emma would feel about you dying just for her to be able to come home?”

“She’s right.” Ruby said. “David, you’re an important part of this family. We can’t lose you. We can figure this out together.”

“I don’t want anyone else to die for us.” David said. Why couldn't they just let this go? He'd made his decision. 

Snow, unusually quiet today, spoke up. “David, they’re right. This should be a family decision. Jefferson also has a point. We should tell Killian what’s going on.” Snow knew Killian was probably still angry with her, but he’d come home for this. She knew he would, and he wouldn’t let David sacrifice himself either. 

“Someone still needs to die for the Curse to work.” David protested. “Who else would be willing?”

“Me.” Marco spoke up, surprising everyone. 

“Papa…” August started, but Marco cut him off. 

“No.” Marco stood, shoulders set. “I have lived a long life. I’ve raised my sons. I’ve had grandchildren. I found love.” He looked to Granny then, taking her hand in his. His eyes moved back to David. “It’s my fault that Emma grew up alone. I’m to blame for that. Let me do this for our family.”

Everyone sat silent, considering his words. 

David felt gratitude and relief for Marco’s offer, but could he really let him die?

“Papa, are you really sure about this?” August asked, quietly, tears in his eyes. 

“I am.” Marco said. “I will die a lot sooner than any of you anyway. To die for my family, so they can be reunited? There is no better death than that.” 

“I’ll do it.” Granny said, saddened by Marco’s impending death, but pride for the man she loved shining in her eyes. 

Marco squeezed her hand tightly, knowing she was doing it, not just for him, but to save August from the pain and guilt of killing his father. 

“Marco,” David choked. “Thank you.” Because what else was there to say? Marco was giving his life so that David could live and be with his family. 

Marco nodded. “There is no need for thanks. I’m happy to do it.” He sighed deeply. “I only want to see Killian and Liam one last time.”

Regina stood, her own eyes wet. “I’ll go get them. Killian needs to know what’s happening anyway.” With that, she teleported away. 

“Now that it is settled,” Granny spoke, her voice thick with grief. “We need to prepare everyone to return to Storybrooke.”

*****************************

Killian gathered his crew, his family really, on the deck of the Jolly Roger. 

Eric leaned against a barrel with Ariel in his arms. Alice and Tink sat on crates, Liam sitting between them, the eight-month-old happily playing with his aunts’ hands. Will and Blackbeard stood by the mast, both eyeing Killian with worry and curiosity. 

He internally laughed at how much father and son looked alike in that moment. 

“So fearless leader, why are we having a family meeting?” Will asked. 

Killian chuckled at the title. "Well, to be honest, I think it's time to go home." He sighed. "I'm not giving up, but I was thinking over it last night. We haven't been back to visit the family, and perhaps consulting with Regina might give us fresh insights." More than that, he knew something was coming. Anticipation buzzed in his veins. 

"Are you sure, brother?" Blackbeard asked. "They might not let us go off again."

"It's a risk I'm willing to take." Killian said. "Besides, I still feel like something is happening. I think they have answers." He couldn't explain it, but his gut knew that this was the right decision. 

Blackbeard narrowed his eyes, still not entirely convinced Killian's powers weren't trying to break through. He needed to ask Killian if he ever died and was resuscitated. Then he'd know if the binding was still mostly intact or not. 

"It might be good for us to take a bit of a break." Tink said. "After eight months of traveling, it will be good to stay in place for a little while."

Purple smoke startled everyone as Regina appeared. 

"Regina!" Killian yelped in surprise. 

Regina smiled brightly, hugging her friend. "It's so good to see you, Killian." She pulled away, taking in the others. "It's good to see all of you."

"You have perfect timing." Alice said. "We were just headed back to the Enchanted Forest."

"You were?" Regina asked, shocked. Did they know about the Curse? No, they just now made a decision about the Curse. There was no way they'd know already. Her dark eyes looked to Killian for an answer.

Killian shrugged. "I just had a feeling something was happening. That it was time to come home."

Regina scrutinized him, wondering, not for the first time, if the pirate was precognitive on some level. "You're not wrong." Taking a breath, she prepared herself for the negative reaction she was about to get telling Killian her news. "We have a way to get to the Land Without Magic."

"You do?" Alice asked. "When did you figure it out?"

Seeing Regina wince, Killian's blood ran cold. There was only one option that he knew for sure, and Regina's reaction told him all he needed to know. "No." 

Perceptive pirate. Regina sighed. "It's the only way." 

"No." Killian snapped. "I'm not letting anyone die."

"That's not your choice." Regina crossed her arms, prepared to stand off against him. "We're casting the Curse. Then magic will be back in the Land Without Magic, and you can get Emma and Henry."

"Wait, hold on," Tink spoke up. "The Dark Curse? The one where you have to kill the person you love most? That Curse?" 

"As I explained to the others," Regina began. "It's not called the Land Without Magic because there isn’t magic, there's just not enough there to make it accessible. The whole reason the Curse was created was for Rumple to bring over magic so he could remain the Dark One. Casting the Curse will weaken the barriers of the realm, and since you have Ariel here, she could open a portal to the Land Without Magic." 

"So the Dark Curse gets cast," Ariel started. "Storybrooke and magic would return to the realm. If you teleported me and Killian far enough away, once the Curse is cast, then I can get us to the Land Without Magic, no problem."

Killian still didn't like the idea. "Who's volunteered to die for this cause?"

Regina grimaced. "Look, let me transport everyone to the castle and we can finalize plans. Then, like Ariel said, I can teleport the two of you away from the range of the Curse. If you get caught up in it, you won't be able to leave Storybrooke to find Emma and Henry." 

"Regina, who's dying?" Killian demanded. "David's not being a noble idiot again, is he?"

"He tried." Regina admitted with a watery chuckle. Killian knew his best friend so well. “But no, David isn’t pulling the noble sacrifice card. We wouldn't let him."

“Okay, let’s get back to the castle then.” Tink said. “We can debate and argue over the details when we’re there.”

Killian wasn’t happy about Regina withholding details and being rather shifty about the plan, but Tink was right. They needed to get back home. The sooner they did then the sooner they’d figure out whether or not the Curse was worth it, and then he’d find a way back to Emma and Henry.

*****************************

While he wasn’t too happy about George and Nottingham roaming his castle, Rumple had work to do. The memory potion for Miss Swan was almost ready and he needed to send it off before George and Nottingham discovered his whereabouts. 

Having overheard George’s plan, Rumple only hoped that the heroes would cast the Curse before George could find the dagger or worse: find the dagger and control Rumple into altering the Curse. 

When he defeated his father and sacrificed himself, Rumple was at peace with his decision and knew Belle and Neal had a support system to get them through their grief. 

His sacrifice felt like an apology to Neal for everything that he did as the Dark One. More than that, death freed him from the Darkness. He never imagined his son would go as far as to resurrect him considering they never truly resolved all of their issues. Even now with Neal in his head, it was only a matter of time before one of them took control permanently. There couldn’t be two of them. Resurrection magic came with a price and that price would be the death of one of them. He just had to figure out how to make it so Neal lived and he died.

But that would be for another time. The memory potion was ready.

Rumple worked quickly to bottle the potion and hide evidence of his actions before heading to a window and summoning a bird. Of course it was a messenger pigeon. Rumple quickly wrote a note explaining what the potion was for and tied it to the pigeon’s leg. “Take this to Killian Jones.” 

As the bird flew off, Rumple felt a pull in his gut. The Dark One dagger had been found. Answering the summons, Rumple disappeared in a puff of scarlet smoke and reappeared in another room of the castle in front of King George and Nottingham.

The dagger was in George’s hand. 

George smirked. “Hello, Dark One. I have a job for you.”

*****************************

Regina first teleported all of them and the Jolly close enough to her castle so that the Jolly would get caught up in the Curse. She knew how important it was for Killian and his family to keep the ship. After that, they teleported to the castle, appearing in the war council room where only David and Snow awaited them. 

“Killian!” David beamed at the sight of his best friend and quickly moved to embrace him.

“What are we?” Will whined. “Chopped liver?” 

“Hello to you too, Will.” David said as he pulled away from Killian. 

“He’s just sore because everyone likes me best.” Killian chuckled. As David hugged and greeted most of the others, Killian walked over to where a very heavily pregnant Snow sat. “I see that congratulations are in order.”

Snow’s smile fell, and she immediately bursted into tears. “Oh Killian, I’m so sorry. I was so horrible to you and you didn’t deserve it. I’m sorry.” 

Startled at his friend’s tearful outburst, Killian sat next to her and took her hand in his. “It’s all right, Snow. Emotions were still running high.”

“No, it’s not.” Snow sniffled. “There is no excuse for how I acted and the words that I said.” 

“Would it make you feel any better if I was still angry?” Killian asked. “Or if I said I didn’t forgive you?” 

“No.” Snow wiped away her tears. 

“Exactly.” Killian squeezed her hand reassuringly. “Let’s just leave it all in the past. Fair?”

“Okay.” Snow sniffed a final time before throwing her arms around him. “We’ve missed you so much.” 

David walked over with little Liam in his arms. “Look how big he’s gotten. Is he crawling yet?”

“Oh all over the ship.” Killian grinned. “Teleporting too. Likes to give us a scare from time to time doing that.” His eyes lit up with pride taking in his son. 

“He looks so much like you.” Snow reached up to brush Liam’s hair away from his face. 

“Aye, but most of his expressions are pure Emma.” Killian said. “Particularly when he’s mad.”

David laughed at that, knowing the exact expressions Killian meant. 

“I know this reunion is overdue, but we have a Curse to cast.” Regina spoke up. “I’m going to get started.” She gave David a significant look as she left. 

David winced. Why did he have a feeling Regina didn’t tell them who was sacrificing themselves? How kind of her to leave the hard part to him…

“So who’s the ritualistic human sacrifice?” Will asked. 

Alice smacked him on the shoulder. “Will, really?” 

Will shrugged as if to say that his description was rather accurate. 

“Uh, yeah, about that.” David grimaced. He turned to Killian. “Look, I was going to do it, but everyone was against it…”

“Rightfully so.” Tink said. “You have a baby on the way, and a full life to live.” 

“I know.” David said. “I was trying to be noble. I didn’t think it was right to ask anyone else to make this kind of sacrifice.” He sighed. He really thought his sacrifice would be for the better until everyone set him straight. Marco made his points clear as well. 

“So who’s is?” Alice asked. 

Snow squeezed Killian’s hand again. “Marco.”

Killian whipped his head towards her. “What?” He couldn’t have heard that correctly. Not Marco. No, Pop needed to be around to watch Henry and Liam grow up. He needed to see Killian and Emma get married. What about August? Marco needed to be here for his milestones too. 

“That’s why Regina went to get you.” David gave Liam to his father. “Marco wants to say goodbye to you and Liam. He and August are in the garden.” 

Killian sat there a moment, stunned by the news. “Wait, hold on. There’s still got to be another way. The Dark Curse can’t be our only option.”

“We’ve already been over this with Regina.” David said, giving Killian’s shoulder a comforting squeeze. “Regina consulted with Blue. The Curse is all we have, Killian. It’s our only chance to reunite with Emma and Henry. Marco wants to be the one to do this for our family.”

“Go say goodbye.” Snow urged softly. 

Killian swallowed, not sure what else to say. He got up and glanced at the rest of his family. None of them knew Marco as well as he had, but their sympathy for him and the situation was clear on their faces. He looked away, not able to stand it, before he left the war room with Liam in his arms. 

The garden was in bloom despite the August heat. Killian found his father and brother sitting on a stone bench across from a black marble fountain. He approached quietly as Marco and August were deep in conversation. August clearly upset o er whatever his father was saying kept shaking his head. 

“Papa, give me a chance to go to Zelena." August said. "Maybe I can get her on our side."

"If you can't?" Marco argued. "Besides, this is the only way to get Emma and Henry back." 

August ran a frustrated hair through his hand. "Then let someone else do this. I know why you want to do this, but can’t you reconsider?” August pleaded. 

“No.” Marco’s tone was resolute. “This is my choice. You won’t change my mind.” 

“Could I?” Killian asked, surprising the two men. 

“Killy!” Marco stood up and pulled Killian, Liam still in his arms, into a hug. “My boy, it is so good to see you. Welcome home.” 

“Hi, Pop.” Killian returned the hug as best he could with the baby. 

Marco pulled back and took in little Liam. “Look at how big you’ve gotten, little one.” Carefully, he took the baby in his arms. “Oh, you’re a heavy one now, aren’t you?” He tickled the baby’s tummy earning a giggle from Liam, who wriggled in his hold. 

“Pop, can we talk about this?” Killian asked. “Why do you want to die?” 

“Killy, I have lived a full life.” Marco said. “Fuller than most. Everyone else here still have long lives ahead of them. It would be unfair for any of them to die instead. As I told everyone, it isn’t just about that, but I feel it is necessary to make up for past mistakes.”

“Past mistakes?” Killian asked, but the answer came quickly enough. “You mean Emma? Pop, Emma forgave you for that.” 

“That’s what I told him.” August said. “He’s not listening to reason.” 

“I haven’t forgiven myself.” Marco said simply. “Killian, I love you and August. I love all of our family. Did I want to see you boys married and raising your families? Yes, I did. But for you, Killian, it won’t happen unless I do this. Please, let me do this for our family.”

Killian swallowed, pushing back tears. He looked to August, who appeared as defeated as Killian felt. “There’s nothing we can say to change your mind?” 

"You can't be serious." August stood and began pacing the garden. "We can find another way to Emma and Henry. I know if I get a chance to talk to Zelena, she'll come to our side. Then we can all scour the realms until we find another way."

"You heard Regina." Marco said. "There is no other way. Even if we tried to look, Henry and Liam could be grown. I am an old man. My time will come soon enough." Marco patted Liam's little head as the baby watched his uncle pace. “Now, let me say goodbye to you boys properly, yeah?”

Breathing shakily, Killian nodded. “Okay.”

August reluctantly agreed as well, tears falling down his cheeks. "Okay, Papa."

Marco knew they would grieve, knew he’d miss out on so much, but he was at peace with his decision. To die was only the next adventure after all. 

*****************************

Her head pounded as she came to awareness. Zelena slowly opened her eyes, finding herself facing metal bars. She pushed herself up finding that she was in a cage of some sort. She remembered George speaking with her then...someone hit her from behind. 

“You’ve got us into a bind, dearie.” Rumple said from behind her. 

Turning, Zelena found the Dark One scowling at her. “What happened?” 

“King George and his crony Nottingham happened.” Rumple said. He was leaning against a table covered in gold straw. “They knocked you out and found my dagger.” His teeth clenched in a snarl. “I’m under his control now.” 

Zelena swallowed back her fear. “Does that mean you’ll kill me now?” She needed to get out of here. Her magic reached out to unlock the cage, only to bounce off of more powerful magic. 

“No.” Rumple said. “Luckily for us both, George thinks you’ll be useful as a hostage.” Rumple walked closer to the cage. “Your magic won’t work either. He ordered me to create a cage that you couldn’t magic your way out of, so that he could keep you in his possession.” He leaned down to whisper. “But this could work in our favor. You figure a way out without magic, get my dagger, and then we can kill George.” Rumple’s teeth baring grin held mania behind it. 

“You’re more sane for the moment.” Zelena said. “Or have you been playing me this entire time?” She wondered about his outbursts and why he was so calm now. 

“I can silence my son when needed.” Rumple said. “He’s asleep for now. No doubt he’ll wake up soon enough.” Though Rumple knew the real reason. The Darkness and past Dark Ones didn’t like his son holding him back. They wanted to expel Neal and get back to full power. Rumple silenced him as much as he could to protect him. He needed to figure out how to save Neal before the Dark Ones grew even more impatient. 

Zelena couldn’t tell if Rumple was lying or not. She’d take him at his word for now. “How am I supposed to escape?” 

“That’s for you to figure out.” Rumple snapped. He stiffened. Anger flashed in his amber eyes.  If Zelena hid the dagger better, they wouldn’t be in this situation. “I’m being summoned.” 

Once left alone, Zelena turned her focus to the cage. She couldn’t use magic to get out, but he didn’t say anything about picking the lock. Though Zelena didn’t know how to pick locks, it couldn’t be that hard, could it? 

Combing through her hair for a hairpin, Zelena decided the sooner she escaped, the better. 

*****************************

The Curse was ready. 

Regina teleported Killian and Ariel to the Southern Isles, where they’d be out of range of the Curse, but still able to keep an eye on the Enchanted Forest’s coast. 

Most everyone else was somewhere in the castle hunkering down. Only David, Granny, Ruby, Jefferson, Marco, and August elected to stay in the room. August wanted to be with his father as he died, especially since Killian couldn’t be, and Ruby and Jefferson stayed to support Granny. David stayed for support as well, but he was ready for a fight in case Zelena or Rumple showed up. 

“Okay, it’s time.” Regina said. She beckoned Marco and Granny over to the cauldron. “I’m sorry for this.” She genuinely felt horrible for Marco’s fate, but this was the only way. 

“It’s all right.” Marco assured with a sad smile. 

Regina reached out, hand plunging into his chest, and pulled out his red, beating heart. Gingerly, she gave the heart to Granny. “All you have to do is squeeze it over the cauldron until it turns to ash. Once the ashes fall in, then the Curse is enacted.” 

Granny nodded, not trusting herself to speak. She walked over to the cauldron, Marco at her side. August and Ruby joined them. August put an arm around his father, ready to catch him when he fell. Ruby stayed by Granny’s side. 

Granny looked into Marco’s eyes, and with a final nod from him, she held his heart over the cauldron and squeezed. 

Marco gasped at the pain, staggering a bit as August held him firmly. 

Granny closed her eyes, unable to watch, squeezing harder, hoping for it to work faster to end Marco’s suffering. 

As Marco’s knees gave out, August helped lower his father to the floor, holding him tightly. Marco whispered a final “I love you” as his heart turned to ashes. 

August hugged his father to him as Marco took his last breath. 

A sob escaped August, unable to hold it in now that his father was gone. 

Once all of the ashes fell into the potion, purple smoke seeped out of the cauldron. As the smoke creeped along, Granny, with Ruby right behind her, went to August’s side. Granny hugged August, who refused to let his father go, his body wracked with sobs. 

Regina stood off to the side with Jefferson and David, all of them tearful. 

“How long will the Curse take?” Jefferson asked quietly, turning away from the grieving family. He hoped they’d be taken soon so that Marco could have a proper funeral. 

“It will take some time.” Regina said. “It’s not a fast curse, so we should be in Storybrooke by morning.” 

“Do you think Zelena or Rumple will interfere?” David asked.

“Even if they did, I spelled the cauldron to only respond to my magic.” Regina said. It was foresight on her part, sensing that either or both would want to manipulate the Curse in Zelena’s favor. That is, if her sister still held possession of the Dark One dagger. Her sister. Perhaps if she received the news better that she had a long lost sister, then they wouldn’t need the Savior and Marco would be alive. Then again, they’d likely never seen Emma and Henry again, and a very selfish part of Regina was glad for the Curse. She’d get her son and a woman she considered family back. As horrible as it was, in the long run, this truly was best for everyone And Marco’s sacrifice would be remembered. 

“Will the spell hold against them?” David knew Regina was a powerful witch, but Zelena and Rumple were more powerful. It wouldn’t surprise him if they broke through it. 

Regina’s silence was telling. “Let’s hope not.”

“Hope not what, dearies?” Rumple’s high-pitched voice startled them. The imp appeared out of the smoke. “That I won’t change your Curse?” 

“Rumple.” Regina stepped forward. “I know you’re under her control…” 

“Not hers.” Rumple said. “Someone else controls me now.” He grinned without humor. “Unfortunately, I’ve been ordered not to say.” He waved his hand, magically tossing Regina back into Jefferson and David, knocking all of them to the stone floor. 

“You bastard!” Ruby snarled, pouncing for the Dark One, only to be pushed back with his magic, disappearing into the smoke of the Curse.    

Granny screamed out Ruby’s name, rushing to her granddaughter. 

August couldn’t see through the smoke as he sat clutching his father’s body, though the tears didn’t help his vision any. 

Regina used the smoke as cover to get behind Rumple. Lightly twirling her hand, she knew a vial of squid ink appeared in David’s hand. “Rumple, you don’t have to do this.” 

“On the contrary,” Rumple snarled. “I have my orders.” 

Calling upon her magic, Regina threw her hands out, pushing Rumple into the far wall, away from the cauldron. “Fight it, damn you! You know if you alter the Curse, there’s no Savior to break it.” 

“True Love abounds now.” Rumple said, hiding in the smoke. “Plenty of givers and receivers of True Love’s Kiss.” He came up behind Regina. “My master,” His tone was laced with disgusted sarcasm, “craves power and revenge. I’m to help him achieve that.”

Good, good, give me clues. Regina thought. Master of loopholes as always. “You can still fight it. I know you can.” They just needed to stall him long enough for the Curse to finish. Come on, David. She knew the squid ink wouldn’t last too long on Rumple, but it would last long enough to get past the point of no return for the Curse. “You’re stronger than the dagger.”

“That’s where you’re wrong.” Rumple walked slowly in front of of her, eyes piercing. “Play time is over.”

Okay, he can’t fight it much longer. Regina thought. Where was David? “Rumple, wait…”

The Dark One froze. 

Regina glanced down to see David on the floor, having army crawled under the smoke to hide, an empty vial of squid ink poised over Rumple’s foot. “Finally.” 

“Sorry.” David said, pushing himself up. “I wanted to make sure he was fully distracted.” 

“He was fighting it.” Regina said. “His new master is a guy out for revenge. Any idea who?” Since they were back in the Enchanted Forest, it could be a number of people, not just ones who were victims of the first Curse, though it wouldn’t surprise her if it was a victim of the first Curse. 

“Depends on who he wants revenge on.” David said. “You, me, Snow, Rumple, we all have a number of enemies.” Whoever controlled Rumple now was the most dangerous enemy they’d face yet; they needed to get the Dark One dagger back and soon. “How long will this hold him?”

“Maybe a few hours.” Regina said. “The Curse can’t be altered after a couple of hours, so when he gets free, there’s nothing he can do.” 

“That’s a relief.” Ruby said, appearing out of the smoke with Jefferson. She favored her left arm, having landed on it, breaking her ulna. 

“Here.” Regina waved her hand, healing Ruby quickly. 

“Thanks.” Ruby said. “Now we wait?”

Regina nodded. “Now, we wait.” 

*****************************

With his spyglass, Killian could see the Curse off in the distance. Purple smoke and lightning creeped through the Enchanted Forest as the deep inky sky started greying along the horizon. They hadn’t slept, worried that the Curse would reach them, though he hoped Regina’s calculations were correct and that the northern most coast of the Southern Isles was out of range. 

“Do you see it yet?” Ariel asked from her perch on the small cliffside. She stretched as she yawned, eager for the Curse to be over and done with so they could all be reunited again. 

“Aye.” Killian said. “It’s still far off, so it will take some time for it to finish.” He sat next to her, worry gnawing at his gut. He know leaving Liam with his brother and Tink was the right move, since he didn’t know how long it would take to get to Emma and Henry, but he hadn’t been away from Liam more than an hour or two in the boy’s entire life. Leaving him for who knows how long with villains amok ate away at him. “Once it’s finished, we’ll try your portal. Likely we’ll end up in Storybrooke, so I’ll need your help to get to the edge of the town and escape.” 

Ariel nodded, stifling another yawn, when she saw something. “What’s that bird doing?” Ariel asked, squinting off in the distance. 

Killian watched the pigeon flapping it’s wings vigorously, almost as though it was outrunning the Curse. “I don’t know. Is there something attached to it’s leg?”

The bird drew closer, clearly intending on them being its destination. It landed next to Killian, practically collapsing onto the ground. 

Gingerly, Killian picked up the bird in one hand. There was a note and potion attached to its leg. “Here, take the potion and note.” He maneuvered the bird so that Ariel could untie it. Once that was done, he released the pigeon and took the note from her. 

“What is it?” Ariel held the blue bottle carefully. 

“A memory potion.” Killian said. “For Emma.” If the Curse didn’t return their memories, then why didn’t Regina give him the memory potion earlier? Why send a bird? Unless she hadn’t realized the Curse wouldn’t return their memories and someone else sent it, but who? Killian looked over the note, but it wasn’t handwriting he recognized. Could he trust that this potion was a memory potion? He pocketed the note and took the potion bottle from Ariel, eyeing it despite not being versed in potions to even know what he was looking at. Shaking his head, he pocketed it too just to be on the safe side. 

The sun slowly ascended above the horizon. 

Killian took out his spyglass once again to see the progress. A thrill crawled up his spine when he saw the purple smoke clearing. “I think it’s done.”

“Okay.” Ariel said. “Let’s see if I can make a portal.” She removed her bracelet, her legs quickly joining together, creating her fishtail once more. She handed it to Killian. “Hang on to this for me.” Then she pushed herself the ledge, diving into the water. Once she hit the cool blue waters, she stretched out her hand and twirled it in a clockwise motion. A blue portal opened and Ariel darted through. 

As Killian awaited her return, he pushed himself up, preferring to walk down the cliff to a more level space, not wanting to risk shattering a bone. As he walked, the memory potion and who might’ve sent it nagged at him. Uncertain as to its origins, Killian decided that it would be a last resort when he found Emma. He’d do what he could to make her remember him and their life. 

Ariel was waiting in the shallows when he reached the beach. “It’s there.” She said excitedly as he approached. “I came out about fifty yards from the coast. It looks just as it did before.”

“That’s a relief.” Killian said as he waded through the shallow waters. “Did you figure out where the edge of town is along the coast?”

“Yeah, it’s two leagues south of the docks,” Ariel said. She took Killian’s hand. “Ready?”

“Aye.” Killian said. “Let’s go home.” 

*****************************

“Killian.” Emma gasped, waking up, looking around the room. She could’ve sworn…

Wait, something happened. Her bedroom looked and felt the same, but everything was off. Or she was off kilter. 

Emma saw nothing different in her bedroom, but her instincts were screaming that something was different. Egged on by her gut, Emma hurried out of her bedroom, anticipating finding something changed. After scouring her apartment, finding Henry still asleep, Emma was at a loss. 

This was certainly all the fault of her silly, stupid dream. 

She dreamed that Killian was here. That they were so close to touching and being together. Her nostrils filled with the smell of him, leather, sea, and his Opium cologne. 

God, she was going crazy wasn’t she? Killian wasn’t real. Or was he? After all, there was no such thing as Storybrooke, Maine, but she’d been there. She raised Henry, yet there were adoption records. She worked as a bail bonds person in Boston, then disappeared for over a year. 

There were things that didn’t add up; things that couldn’t be explained. Storybrooke had the answers, and she planned on going. However, now, everything in her was telling to stay put and wait. 

But wait for what? 

A live-wire crawled under her skin. Life as she knew it was changing. Something big was coming.