Captain Swan Gift Exchange

[cssecretsanta2020]

CSSS 2024 Sign Ups OPEN

You can sign up HERE.

You can learn a bit about this event HERE. Gives a general summary, rules, gift ideas, and a rough schedule.

Not up for being a Santa read up on being a Santa's Helper HERE.

Signs ups close November 26. Pairings go out between November 29th - 30th.

[csgiftexchange]

This event will again not be taking place this year.

I am focusing on my, and possibly the, last year of Captain Swan Secret Santa. Which does currently have sign ups live right now. You can find that post HERE

But I want to make it clear though this event has only happened one year this event is not abandoned. The one year it did happen it was very fun and I enjoyed running it. I do hope that this event can run next year maybe we can even do a Christmas in July gift exchange so we don't have to wait for the winter season.

[csgiftexchange]

For anyone waiting to hear about this event. I’m sorry but there will be no gift exchange this year. Real life was hitting me hard and by the time I remembered this event I felt it was too late to ask for anyone to sign up.

Would love to hopefully see everyone next year! And again I’m sorry

[captainodonoghue]

      A man unwilling to fight for what he wants deserves what he gets.    Those are the words that Killian Jones has always lived by. Now with Emma disappearing because of the Evil Queen’s wish, he would stop at nothing to find her and bring her back. (Part 2/4) (Emma’s poster) @totheendoftheworldortime @csgiftexchange

[sotangledupinit]

a little bundle of icing - My CS Gift Exchange Fic

Prompt: Giftee’s Wants: Established relationship, cs family fluff, cs parents, modern au with established relationship. NO: character death, angst

SUMMARY: She thought the hardest part would be hiding the gifts from the (mostly) reformed pirate. In actuality, the hardest part has been wrapping them. For some reason, every chance she’s gotten has been foiled by one thing or another.// or Emma tells Killian she’s pregnant.

RATING: G for General Audiences

WORD COUNT: 4,575 words

TAGS: Captain Swan, Christmas, Holiday fluff, Pregnancy

AO3

AUTHOR’S NOTE: this was fun to work with and try, as i haven’t done much established relationship writing. hope everyone enjoys this!

hi @middlemistcs13​ ! i picked your prompt for the gift exchange! as you already know (and read), this fic has been up on AO3 for a few days but here’s the tumblr post to accompany it! yay! for anyone who hasn’t read this yet - i hope you enjoy!

***

“And this Santa Claus… your world doesn’t consider him to be flagrant?”

The answering huff of a laugh from Henry is loud, even from the other end of the table. “Dude. Of course not. He leaves presents for you to reward a year of being a good person.”

“But aren’t you required to cook for him as well?”

Emma’s eyes drift to the end of the table where Henry and Killian stand side by side, each holding a piping bag of icing, one red and one green. Sprinkles litter the table and powdered sugar is dusted across Killian’s leather vest, not that he cares much. Their sleeves are rolled up to their elbows and a mixing spoon is still taped to his brace (a brilliant idea that he and her son supposedly had; the mess they have yet to clean up says otherwise).

She tries hard to suppress her grin at the image but she knows she’s failing miserably so she ducks her head and kneads the dough beneath her knuckles, listening along.

“Well, not really,” Henry says. Emma feels his eyes on her for a moment but she pretends not to notice. “It’s more like a donation or a gift.”

“Ah ha!” Killian cheers, mixing spoon gesturing wildly as he points a finger at Henry. Some of the red icing drips from the bag under the pressure and lands with a plop! on the counter between the naked gingerbread people and sugar cookies. “So it’s not from the goodness of his heart!”

At her quick glance up, she catches Killian’s eye and he winks at her. Her kid can be too easy to rile up sometimes, something Killian likes to do to get back at Henry’s quips about his struggles with modern technology. She doesn’t always understand their relationship, the way they can rile each other up one moment and immediately slide into the caring, supportive step-father/son dynamic the next – but she’s grateful nonetheless to have them be so close.

Henry rolls his eyes. “Yes, it is. He’s basically our world’s Robin Hood.”

“Didn’t this world already have a Robin Hood?”

“Oh my god.” Henry groans and then calls out to Emma, a gallop of green icing landing on the face of a gingerbread man. “Mom, you need to divorce your husband.”

Keep reading

[cocohook38]

Killian Jones and How To Become A Twenty Century Man

                                                    ~Introduction~

It was in those moments of peace - no matter how brief they could be - that Killian Jones had the pleasure -sometimes unpleasure- to learn “How To Be a Twenty Century Man” and to discover all the wonders of the modern world. 

Sure, from the moment he’d arrived in Storybook with Cora, he’d discovered and learned - again, most of the time at his peril- of all the strange things now happening on all over the land. The black asphalt felt strange under his boots at first but he got used to it quickly and in the end he even came to like it. Now the beasts driving on it, that he learned real fast they were to avoid. The one time he encountered one he end up with broken ribs and a little more thanks to the crocodile. 

Thankfully now with Emma and her family by his side, he began to learn more safely about everything new. From his talking box amen— mobile phone, to the new “technology”.  And as time pass, Killian find himself thinking back at those time, a smile on his lips… 

———————————————————————————————————–

As promised, here a little SneakPeek for you @anmylica​ , for your hopefully soon complete @csgiftexchange​ gift! If you pay attention to the little montage, you’ll find out what I’m planning ;D Hoping this will get you excited for the full story ♥

[captainodonoghue]

      A man unwilling to fight for what he wants deserves what he gets.    Those are the words that Killian Jones has always lived by. Now with Emma disappearing because of the Evil Queen’s wish, he would stop at nothing to find her and bring her back. (Part 2/4) (Emma’s poster) @totheendoftheworldortime @csgiftexchange

[captainodonoghue]

   The Evil Queen uses Aladdin to make Emma’s secret wish that she wasn’t the Savior a reality but like most wishes things aren’t the way imagined.    Princess Emma, since she was born, has lived a carefree and peaceful life. She dreams, though, of adventures beyond the castle. When her parents ask her why she would ever want to leave her perfect life, she insists that there is something missing and she won’t stop until she finds it. (Part ¼) (Killian’s poster)

                                     Merry Christmas, @totheendoftheworldortime !! As soon as I read Canon AU and Captain Duckling, a 6x10 AU came to my mind! As I said in my message, the main thing (the video) will be posted the week after the New Year’s Day (my pc chose the right time to broke down, as always). Today I’ll post these teasers to maybe get you a little bit excited for what’s to come. I really home you’ll like them!!! @csgiftexchange

[their-seafaring-ways]

Belated Merry Christmas @captainodonoghue it is I, your gift exchange gifter, bringing forth an idea (and a part) for a story that I hope you will like as much as I adore your gifsets.

Additionally, I'd love to thank @superchocovian for being an absolutely amazing beta/santa's helper- asking the right questions and giving me helpful suggestions and feedback for the upcoming parts of this work.

I'd also like to thank @csgiftexchange for hosting the event, it was a true joy to join it.

BOTTOM OF THE DEEP BLUE SEA [0.5/?]

Summary:

When Princess Emma's childhood sweet heart (Lieutenant Killian Jones), is presumed dead. She sets out on a journey to find the truth- finding him in the most unsavory of places. Only to discover that she's nothing but a prisoner to him- will the power of true love shine through or will they forever be resigned to this cruel twist of fate.

Additional notes, related to the story are posted at the very bottom of this post. Hope you enjoy :)

The beginning:

Transcript:

(Includes some minor tweaks and an

additional scene of sorts)

The first time she saw him was by the willow whisp valley. A dark silhouette just meters away from her. She moved towards the stranger- knife drawn defense on the ready, only to see a forlorn man. She moved closer intending to keep quiet- the snapping of a twig underneath her feet giving her away.

Stepping out into the light and cutting him to the chase

She asked- "What are you doing here? No one really comes here anymore."

Turning to face her he said "similar reasons to you love- peace, calm, serenity, tranquility.....you list it".

Later, they sat together by the lake, a certain sense of understanding forged between the two of them. Setting the foundation for an unexpected, yet expected bond that drew them closer together.

Leading to the present day: Emma raced down to the valley, Killian's letter clutched tight to her chest. Once at their, safe haven she devoured its contents, thumbing the faint imprint of words as a faint smile crossed her face.

My dearest swan,

Not a day passes by where I don't think of you my love. Perhaps one day your father will let you voyage with Liam, the crew and I.

The sights here are positively wondrous! Just last week we saw the fabled yeti on a hill! I'm just pulling your leg love, It's just one of me mates (will) dressed up.

All, humor aside, my dearest swan, what would you like back from our travels- a pin, a dress, perhaps some books, me? All flirtation aside, I hope you're doing well Swan- I await your reply.

Your dashing rascal,

Killian

Note (regarding a picture of an yeti in the letter): I like to think that Killian found a camera during one his voyages or that, he bought it from a rare artifacts shop.

Preview of the next part:

Times at Misthaven weren't looking too good for Emma. Just last week she had been riding high after receiving a letter from Killian and now- a messenger bringing forth a plank of enchanted wood, claiming it to be from the Jewel of the Realm.

Additional notes:

The next update will be up in Febuary (late ik but there's a couple of ideas, I have that I wanna see through- before I put a final update up).

I will be finishing this fic, if I don't feel free to hound me.

I think there will be a written down version of this chapter- not 100% sure.

PS: this was my first time making a gifset (hopefully it turned out okay- saddly the words were barely legible so appologies for that). Have a good day/night and stay safe- I'd love to hear any feedback or ideas you/anyone reading this post has *tips hat*.

[kazoosandfannypacks]

A very Merry Christmas to @cosette141 from me, your @csgiftexchange elf! It's been so hard not to spoil the surprise, especially since we've also become friends off anon these past few weeks too 😊 I was admittedly a little thrown off when I found out you've only been in the fandom a year and a half (I myself just started watching ouat in august of '21,) because you have SO MANY good fics that you've already written in that time! For your Christmas gift, I drew some of my favorite scenes from some of those lovely fics you've written (and to everyone reading this, go check these all out; this girl's got some incredible Captain Swan oneshots and other fics! The description for each has a link to the fic on ao3!)

This first one here is from "Fall"

Up next is a moment from "Every Part of Me"

"Untied," (this fanart may or may not be a shameless attempt to beg for more from this fic, /np, I just really loved this story so far!)

an attempt at "The Emma Button" Perhaps someday I'll try my hand at this one again!

When I saw the gift grab list, I went "Bed sharing/no smut??? who is this, because they seem like my kind of person." Of course when I read the description for "What's in a Name," I suddenly understood, and I want to go back and reread this fic a million times!

"Take My Hand." If their expressions in this one look familiar to you, then, well, you probably know what my last blog theme was 😅😉

This last one here is super exciting, because as I read "Firsthand," I found three moments I wanted to draw, so I figured I'd do them all! Unbeknownst to me, though I later found out through an ask response with your Secret Santa, this one's one of your favorites of your fics you wrote, so it felt extra special to me that I drew that one the most.

It's been really cool to be your secret gifter! I can't wait to go through your fics again and leave comments and kudos, now that I don't have to be anonymous! I hope this's been the start of a beautiful friendship!

BONUS: this fic's more Captain Cobra than Captain Swan but I couldn't let myself pass up an opportunity to draw a snippet from "Operation Poptarts"

[cosette141]

The Only One Who Saves Me | OUAT fanfic | CS gift exchange gift (1/3)

MERRY CHRISTMAS @i-will-sing-no-requiem !!!! I was your CS gift exchange santa this year!! :D I very much enjoyed obsessing over Taylor Swift with you haha! :)

Your gift is a 3-parter! 😱😆

This is the main fic I worked on for you! I ran with your prompt of Emma or Killian rescuing the other :)

Summary: (CS movie divergence) Killian gets his dashing rescue, and Emma is no longer the only one who saves her. :)

AO3

Killian ran, hard and fast. He's been out of breath for most of the last mile but he didn't stop.

Emma.

Nearly an hour ago, Emma was taken by Regina's guards.

He could only remember standing in that ballroom, watching them drag her away, every muscle in his body coiled to run after her, to fight them all off even if he had to bloody kill them, to save her, but at the same time, knew that he wouldn't have survived such an attack.

If he was to save Emma, and he would, he needed to be smart.

He needed to do this quietly.

For a moment, Killian had considered trying to find Emma's parents. The prince and princess could certainly help, however risking their lives was out of the question. If one of them died, there wouldn't even be an Emma to save.

That very thought was the only thing that was on Killian's mind.

Her parents were back on track, Snow White had the ring.

But none of that mattered if Killian couldn't save Emma now.

His heart was pounding so hard it hurt and Killian could only remember one time in his life that he's been this scared, and back then, he'd been tied to a mast on his own bloody ship.

But somehow, this felt more terrifying, and that very thought scared him almost more than the fear he wouldn't make it to her in time.

Killian knew Regina's ways; she wouldn't kill Emma tonight. Regina liked to watch the execution of Snow White's supporters every morning after she caught them. Like some sort of twisted breakfast entertainment.

However, even the knowledge that he had until morning to save Emma didn't help the fact that he still had to break into the bloody castle and get to her before he was killed.

He'd done it before, he knew how to get in and to find his way to the dungeons.

But the bloody rule not to mess with the timeline which meant he couldn't kill anyone if he needed to only made his heart beat even faster.

Killian finally stopped when he saw the silhouette of the castle over the hill. He stared at it warily, catching his breath.

"I'm coming, Emma," he whispered to the air.

And he started on his way, clinging to shadows.

I will find you, love.

And he won't stop until he does.

Emma huffed a defeated breath, sinking heavily back to the ground.

The lock was too far; she couldn't reach it.

Emma threw the wire she'd found back to the ground with burning eyes. That was her only chance. In a last ditch effort, Emma shut her eyes, trying to feel the magic inside her.

But it wasn't there, no matter how hard she searched for it.

Rumplestiltskin had already given them that wand to use when they'd successfully completed their mission—in Killian's possession since his ensemble had pockets—but Emma already knew even with it it was useless.

Her magic was still gone.

With an audible groan, she gave up trying to get out of here, dropping her face over her crossed arms.

Something about this felt eerily similar, being here, alone in a jail cell.

"Sorry, sweetheart, your boy took off."

She could still remember the first day she spent in prison.

Alone.

Terrified.

She'd curled herself tight on the cot, arms wrapped around her shins, and she didn't sleep a wink.

She waited.

She waited for someone to come, tell her that it was all a misunderstanding, to let her go.

Waited for Neal to show up, to break her out, to save her.

But he never came.

No one ever came.

Not for eleven months.

Not ever.

Emma didn't even realize she was crying until she felt the dirty sleeves of the dress dampen with hot tears.

Did Hook know she was missing?

He'd been taking out the guards on the balcony; he might not even know she was taken. Or by whom.

But even if he did know she was taken, Emma wasn't going to get her hopes up.

Breaking into Regina's castle to save her? The odds of him succeeding were low at best.

He'd be risking his life even thinking about doing such a thing.

Emma suddenly wondered where he was, what he would do, trapped in the past.

Because the last thing she'd ever believe was that he was going to come back for her.

Save her.

No one ever does.

Emma suddenly heard footsteps.

She lifted her face from her arms, where she was huddled in the far corner of the cell, arms still wrapped around her shins, the facsimile of a hug that felt too shallow and cold to be called such a thing.

The footsteps were running. Fast.

Guards.

Emma's heart pounded.

Was it morning already?

Was she out of time?

As much as she had planned to be strong, to fight them, to save herself, panic was suddenly consuming her.

She was going to be executed.

So when the shadow crossed the walls, getting closer and closer, Emma just curled in on herself tighter, trying to swallow the rising fear.

But—

"Emma!"

Emma's fear halted, traded for shock.

Hook.

It was Hook.

The moment he saw her, he ran to the bars of the cell, eyes on her, his relief at finding her quickly dashed. Concern bloomed. "Emma, love," he whispered.

Emma blinked in shock.

He was here.

He came back for her.

Someone came back for her.

She shot to her feet and rushed to the bars, standing inches from him. Her fingers grasped the bar, wondering if she was dreaming. "Hook?"

"Thank the gods I found you," he breathed, a slight, relieved smile at the victory. His eyes then shifted to the bars, looking for—

"It's at the top," whispered Emma quickly. "The lock. I couldn't reach it."

Hook located it, reaching for the lock and using his hook to pick it. A few precious moments ticked by, and Emma could read every anxiety in his face until the lock clicked open, and the chain fell free.

Hook ripped the door open.

Freedom.

But Emma wasn't half as relieved by the freedom as she was by him.

She didn't even think; she grabbed him in a tight hug, practically clinging to him.

He stumbled a little by the force of it, surprised. She held him tightly, eyes shut, relief rushing through her in waves as she breathed in his scent. Familiarity. Safeness. Home.

She didn't know when she'd started thinking of him as home, but right now, she didn't care.

She felt him hold her back after a hesitation of shock. Just as tightly as she held him. "Are you all right?" he whispered. "Are you hurt?"

"You came," she found herself whispering. Her voice like broken confusion.

A tear fell down her cheek.

His hold on her tightened a little. "Of course I came," he said. He pulled back a little. "You thought I wouldn't?" he asked incredulously, like the idea hurt him. But a noise somewhere nearby like a door opening made both of them freeze and Killian's grip on her tighten even more. "We need to get you out of here. Now," he said quickly, eyes locked with hers, fear in them.

Fear for her.

"Come," he breathed, and without hesitation Emma's hand intertwined with his, and she suddenly felt like she never ever wanted to let go.

Killian led the way, seeming to know his way around, and Emma didn't stop to question it. She was glued to his side as they clung to the shadows, every usual strength within her strangely gone, replaced with the fear of her seventeen year old self, trapped in prison with no way out.

Their run through the castle was like a blur of panic, and Emma heard Killian whisper, "We're nearly there, love." And Emma only then realized she was practically crushing his hand.

But they rounded a corner, and Killian skidded to a stop, just as two guards saw them both.

"Bloody hell," cursed Killian.

"The prisoner!" cried one of the guards, recognizing Emma. "The one who aided Snow White's escape!"

"Get her!" growled the other, both unsheathing swords, and Emma felt paralyzed.

"Get behind me!" exclaimed Killian in a desperate breath, releasing her hand—something that felt like panic itself to her—so he could draw his sword.

Emma listened to him, allowing someone else to take control for the first time in what felt like her life, because hell she knew how to fight with her fists but not against swords and not with flashes of the past blinding her, and she felt her hands grasp the back of Killian's jacket, needing something tethering her to him.

He fought off the first guard, both men caught in a flurry of blades, and suddenly Emma felt a burly arm grab her around the waist and yank her back.

"Emma!"

Emma struggled, managing to land her elbow in the man's gut, making him grunt in enough pain to release his hold. And Emma's hands fisted, her heart pounding as she prepared to fight—

But she didn't need to.

Because suddenly Killian was there, standing firmly in front of her, protecting her, knocking out the man with the hilt of his sword.

Both guards lay unconscious on the ground.

Emma was still shaking.

But Killian's hand suddenly found her face, making her look at him. Such determination shone in his eyes. "I won't let anyone take you. I promise." Emma felt her breath skip, a wave of relief feeling like warm sunlight because, for the first time, she didn't have to protect herself alone. Sheathing his sword, Killian again took her hand, holding her even tighter. "Come," he breathed.

They continued on their way out of the castle, this time making it without trouble. But they didn't stop running until they were well away from it, and could no longer even see the castle in the distance.

And without hesitation, Emma dove into his arms, hers wrapped tightly around his waist, burying her face in his chest.

She was crying and for the first time in her life she didn't care that the tears fell, or that they did in front of someone else.

Because for the first time in her life, someone saved her.

For the first time in her life, she didn't have to do it herself.

She could hear him saying her name, his voice surprised, worried, gentle.

She felt him pull back a little, though his arms never loosened around her.

Killian looked at her, noting the tear tracks on her face, old and new, the dirt and the scratches from the rough handling of her by the guards. It looked like his heart broke in his eyes. "Emma, love," he whispered. "Are you all right?"

But Emma was unable to find her voice, because her mind was still caught on something she couldn't understand.

He came back for her.

He saved her.

Her whole life, the only person who ever saved her was her.

No one else bothered to.

But Killian broke into a castle full of guards that would have killed him in an instant, just to save her.

He risked his life.

For her.

The last person Emma trusted put her in prison.

Killian just rescued her from it.

"Emma…?"

He was still staring at her, even more concerned than before.

"You saved me," she whispered.

"Of course I did," he said, like it was the only reasonable answer.

Like there was no world in which he saw himself not saving her.

Ever since Neverland, hell, long before then, Emma had felt… something for him.

After Neverland, it turned into something even more, something that wasn't just interest, something that was feelings.

And ever since she drank that potion, they had only gotten stronger.

She has spent every waking minute shoving those feelings down, trying to bury them, erase them, because she could not—she could not—stand to trust someone again, for someone to break her like a damn promise.

She had planned to run away to New York, to leave it all—leave him—behind.

But tonight…

He had just risked his life to break into a place that would have killed him if it could have, just for her.

Tonight, he did something no one has ever done.

He saved her.

And Emma was beginning to realize he's done so in more ways than one.

He's handed Emma proof that he will be here for her and will never leave.

And it suddenly gave her an overwhelming need to stay.

Like a broken dam, everything that she felt for him, that she's tried to hold back, rose within her, warming her chest, like a tidal wave she couldn't wait to drown in.

Emma smiled, another tear falling, feeling like so much weight had been lifted from her. Like she suddenly couldn't stand to keep herself from him, to hide the fact that she liked him, she more than liked him, that she—

Emma's hand found his, intertwining with his fingers.

And suddenly, a glowing emitted from his pocket, where her fingers brushed it.

They both looked down, to see the wand.

Lit up with magic.

With a gasp, Emma pulled her hand away, and the glow faded.

Killian smiled.

He took out the wand. "Emma," he breathed.

Tentatively, Emma took it, and in an instant, it lit up again.

"My magic!" she breathed. "It's back," she whispered.

"Perhaps it just needed time," he said softly.

But Emma knew what it needed.

She smiled at him, and the warm feeling that was still in her chest.

The feeling that he and he alone elicited.

"Thank you, Killian," said Emma softly. She kissed his cheek, a little shyly, pink coloring the tip of her nose. Electricity like her own magic seemed to spark as she did.

His brows shot up at the sound of his own name, hearing the heaviness of her gratitude. He stared at her in utter shock.

"Let's go home," she whispered.

His brow quirked, something so hopeful in his eyes. "Home?" he echoed.

She smiled, more and more sure with every second. "Storybrooke." she clarified. "I'm not going anywhere."

She took his hand, and Emma had never seen him look as stunned as he did now.

"Aye," he said softly. "Home." He smiled, the word like music to his ears, like a relief of his own.

And she conjured the portal, the glow reflected in their eyes as they jumped through together.

For she was home long before they reached Storybrooke.

-.-.-.-.

tag list: @kmomof4 @justanother-unluckysoul @klynn-stormz @stahlop @ilovemesomekillianjones @hookmecaptain @tiganasummertree @jadehowlettthewolf @jonesfandomfanatic @anmylica @pirateprincessofpizza @stahlop @snowbellewells @eddisfargo @motherkatereloyshipper @csgiftexchange

[cosette141]

Good | OUAT fanfic | CS gift exchange gift (2/3)

MERRY CHRISTMAS @i-will-sing-no-requiem !!!

Here is your second gift! A little fic I started for you that I didn't end up going with, but it turned into like a little missing scene :)

Summary: (missing scene/tag to "New York City Serenade") A conversation between Emma and Killian about her broken heart. And maybe the hope that it will mend, sooner rather than later. 

AO3

It was the night they'd come back to Storybrooke from New York City, and he found her in Granny's dining room, nursing a drink long after the employees had gone home. He himself had come to look for a drink for himself to erase the desire to be near her.

Yet, he didn't think anything was strong enough to keep him away.

"Emma?" he asked, brows lifting in surprise. "I thought you'd be with your family," he said, ignoring the pang in his chest, the wish to be included in it.

"Henry doesn't have his memories," said Emma dully, turning the glass in her fingers, staring into it. "We're staying here until he gets them back. He's asleep."

The dining room was empty, and it felt like he'd rather die than leave her alone in it. "Care for some company?" he asked gently.

She seemed to hear the gentleness of the question, and also seemed to ponder it before saying, "Sure."

Killian sat beside her, trying to ignore what felt like electricity being so close to her. He watched her for a moment, but she didn't say anything. Until:

"Oh for two, I guess."

Her words were weighted by something tired and sad, and Killian turned his head, seeing with shock that her eyes were slightly red, like she'd been crying.

But before he could inquire, she clarified, "First Neal, then Walsh. The two biggest liars I've ever known, and my superpower didn't catch a damn one."

The boyfriend that turned into a flying monstrosity.

For the first time, Killian pushed aside the envy at the idea of Emma with another man while he'd been madly in love with her for the entire past year.

Because this was Emma, someone who trusted people less than he did, especially when it came to love, and she'd been played.

Twice.

Bloody hell.

How could he have been so selfish?

"Catching liars is the only thing I'm good at," whispered Emma, like either she'd hit a breaking point or the alcohol was loosening her walls a little. She shut her eyes, rubbing them. "God, I'm so stupid."

"You are the furthest thing, Emma," said Killian seriously, wanting badly to touch her, console her somehow, but he kept himself from doing so. "I've said it before and meant it every time, love. You're bloody brilliant."

"No," she said, dismissing the compliment without a second thought, like she didn't even have the ability to process words of praise.

Something that hurt him to his very core.

"No," she repeated, glaring a little into the drink left in her glass. "Stupid that I even thought someone could—anybody would want—"

She didn't finish the sentence, but Killian heard the end of it in painful clarity.

Me.

"Emma." said Killian, voice almost edging on desperate, because the thought of her believing something so untrue made him feel sick. This time, he couldn't help himself, settling his hand tentatively over hers on the counter, making her eyes snap to it, like she was just as distrustful of a kind gesture. Unable to believe it could simply be for comfort and comfort alone.

"You are not stupid for believing that someone had wanted you this past year, because someone has." And trying to breathe past the sudden fear in his own chest, he managed— "I have."

She looked at him for the first time tonight, like that wasn't something she'd even considered.

"Emma," he said, slowly, because he needed her to hear his words. "I was… I was a bloody mess this past year. Thinking I'd never see you again…" He swallowed past the dark, lonely nights thinking just that. "When I got the message to save you…" He smiled at the relief at reading it. "I did everything I could to find you. If only… to see you again."

Finally, it seemed like she was hearing his words, and for the first time since taking the memory potion, she seemed to realize just what lengths he'd gone.

For her.

There was something in her eyes, something that erased the sadness that was there.

Something like hope.

She smiled a little, something that was like the shadow of her normal one, though he's only rarely seen even that. "Thanks," she said softly. "I think I forgot that part." And with a little shyness, "It's been… nice to see you again too."

'Nice' didn't quite seem to define the look in her eyes, but he let her have her secrets.

A… feeling filled the air between them, and they both seemed to feel it at the same time, the lingering… chemistry.

Emma stood, fairly quick, saying, "I guess I should, um, get to sleep."

As much as Killian wanted to stay here with her, he understood.

Emma was afraid enough of love, and that was before her heart had been freshly broken.

He'll give her as much time as she needs.

"Aye," he agreed, both of them walking toward the rooms.

They stopped outside his door, and Emma paused before heading to hers, saying, "So... you're... staying? In Storybrooke?"

There was so much hope in those words that it seemed she was trying to actively prevent.

The question was attempted to be casual but was anything but.

Her heart was shattered, broken.

As much as it pained him to see, it was a hope of his own.

If it can be broken, that means it still works.

For he knew that, all too well.

"Aye," he said, just as heavily, just as hopeful. "I am."

Emma's eyes lingered on his, those walls so cracked, that hope shining through, like sunlight through leaves.

And she smiled, the expression as beautiful as she was. "Good."

She disappeared with that whisper, slipping into her room, and Killian remained frozen where he was.

Good.

He smiled.

-.-.-

tag list: @csgiftexchange @kmomof4 @justanother-unluckysoul @klynn-stormz @stahlop @ilovemesomekillianjones @hookmecaptain @tiganasummertree @jadehowlettthewolf @jonesfandomfanatic @anmylica @pirateprincessofpizza @stahlop @snowbellewells @eddisfargo @motherkatereloyshipper 

[cosette141]

Red Cardigan | OUAT Captain Swan fanvid | CS gift exchange (3/3)

Here is your last gift, @i-will-sing-no-requiem !! A fanvid to a Taylor Swift song hehehe :) you mentioned you loved Cardigan, so to spruce it up a little I used the version someone made who put Cardigan to the backing track of Red, and I love this song mashup so much I just had to share it with you too!! :) (The person who made this version of the song I used is Music Maestro Mashup on YT and they're AMAZING! And they have an All Too Well & Betty mashup you HAVE to look up!!)

I also almost made you one to The Great War, but I saw on one of your own fanvids (which are awesome btw!!) that you mentioned you might be making that one yourself haha. So if you do, please tag me!! :)

@csgiftexchange

[middlemistcs13]

@sotangledupinit Happy Holidays! Here is a little fic for my part in the CS Gift Exchange! @csgiftexchange

“The Festive Faculty Holiday Party”

Eventually this will be posted to AO3! I will add the link here when it's uploaded there!

Words: 6K

Rating: G

_____________

“So Killian, are you bringing your girlfriend to the faculty holiday party?”

“Beg your pardon?” Killian said.

Ashley turned around from walking out of the conference room, completely oblivious to Killian’s confusion. “Your girlfriend. The cute blonde in all of your Facebook posts. You should bring her to the holiday party. Everyone else is bringing their partners! We hardly know anything about your life Killian!”

“Oh! Uh… I’ll have to see if she can make it.” Killian said while scratching behind his ear, a tell-tale sign that he was nervous to anyone who actually knew him. Emma would know he was nervous.

“Great!” Ashley said, satisfied with his answer. “See y’all tomorrow!” She practically skipped down the empty university hallway. Killian and Belle waved their goodbyes before heading down a different hallway towards their offices.

“Killian, why didn’t you tell her the truth?” Belle inquired.

“The truth?” Killian scoffs. “Oh Ashley, sorry to disappoint, but the lovely blonde woman in several photos on my Facebook is not actually my girlfriend, just my best friend who I happen to have a crush on and we spend most nights together and I watch her son when she’s running late from work but she is oblivious to my feelings. So no, I don’t have a girlfriend and I’ll be showing up to this year’s faculty holiday party as I have every faculty party since working at this University, alone. I don’t think so Belle.”

“Well what are you going to do about Emma?” Belle asked.

Killian sighs. “I suppose see if I can bribe her to come as my pretend date. I’m not sure what all I’ll have to do to convince her it’s just fake.”

“Well, and I know I am being quite the romantic here, but you could always ask her out, like for real. This doesn’t have to be fake Killian. I am not nearly as close with Emma as you are, but I know she cares about you. She just might not know how because she’s scared. I mean the two of you practically raise her son together. I know you would do anything for Henry, and so does Emma. A few months ago you literally saved his life. I don’t think there’s much Emma wouldn’t do for you either. Maybe you should just ask?” Belle suggested.

Killian felt hope grow in his stomach, maybe those were just butterflies thinking about the possibility of actually dating Emma. He had known her for nearly two years since she moved into the apartment next to his. He had seen a couple helping her move in, and then a few days later he saw her again but she was trying to get a mattress into her apartment by herself. Killian, ever the gentleman, introduced himself and helped her get the mattress up the stairs and into her apartment. He ended up spending the rest of the afternoon helping her around her new apartment- putting together her bed frame, setting up her TV, helping her hang things on the walls- the works.She ended up asking if he wanted some pizza for his hard-work, which he accepted as a way to continue to hang out with the intriguing woman who was now his next-door neighbor.

He saw her a few times after that outside their apartments or on their patios, but their friendship actually began when she knocked on his door one evening asking if he wanted cookies. She looked like she had been crying, and he quickly ushered her into his apartment, hoping she would open up to him.

“You didn’t have to let me into your apartment, I was just going to give you the tray of cookies” she had said sheepishly.

“Nonsense love, you look like you could use a shoulder to cry on.” Killian had said. At her raised eyebrow, he clarified, “Well, you’re something of an open-book love, and I can tell something is on your mind. I would love nothing more than to listen to whatever is ailing you.”

She sniffled before mumbling something Killian couldn’t quite make out. “Beg pardon?” he said.

She took a deep breath and looked him in the eyes, before blurting out that she was pregnant.

“Oh, and the baby’s father?” Killian had asked, dreading the answer.

“Doesn’t know. It was my ex- the one I moved away from when I moved here. He already has a new girlfriend from what I’ve heard, and we broke up long before there was a baby involved. I made cookies because my foster mom always used to make cookies when something was upsetting us. It makes me feel better most of the time, but I didn’t want to sit in my apartment with three dozen cookies thinking about how I’m all alone and pregnant anymore, which is how I ended up here. Sorry to bother, I just-” Killian interrupted her with a hug, inhaling her eucalyptus shampoo and the slightly cinnamon-essence of Emma.

They became fast friends after that. He learned about her upbringing- her parents abandoned her off the side of the highway in the middle of nowhere Maine. She bounced around from foster home to foster home, similar to he and Liam once they were in the States after their father abandoned them. She was finally adopted by a woman named Ruth, and Emma gained an adoptive brother, David, whom she worked with. She also has David’s wife, Mary Margaret, who Emma claims has always been more of a mom to her than a sister-in-law. Besides the three of them, Emma didn’t have any family. And besides Liam and Elsa, Liam’s wife, Killian didn’t have any family either. Though Emma was scared of trusting people and being abandoned, somehow she let Killian in, and Killian couldn’t be more grateful. He was by her side through her pregnancy, and was even the one who drove her to the hospital and stayed with her through the birth of her son, Henry. Killain’s schedule as a university history professor was much more reliable and consistent than Emma’a job as a police detective for NYPD, so sometimes Emma would call him in a panic needing someone to relieve Henry’s babysitter because she caught a case. Killian was more than happy to step in and watch Henry, and he and Henry formed quite a close bond.

_____________

“So, do you have anything going on on the evening of December 13th?” Killian asked Emma that evening while making dinner in her apartment.

“Hmm, I mean I don’t think we have any plans because the Christmas gathering at David and M’s is on the 24th and it’s not like I have other family to have plans with.” Emma said while adjusting Henry in his baby rover as the packaging called it. “I mean I figure you and I will hang out between now and Christmas because you get off soon for the holidays right?”

“Yeah, on the 13th actually is when we finish. The faculty have a holiday party to celebrate the end of the semester every year, and I am going to go obviously because I always go and well Belle and Graham are going to be there and-”

“Killian, you’re rambing. And you’re scratching behind your ear. What’s wrong?” Emma interrupted.

“Wow you are quite the detective love” Killian laughed nervously.

“Killian.” Emma said more sternly.

“I was wondering if you would go with me. To the holiday party I mean. Everyone always brings their partner and this will be my seventh year at the University and I have never brought anyone. Some of my colleagues were nagging me about it, and it was assumed that I had a girlfriend. A girlfriend who I was bringing. To the holiday party. A blonde girlfriend who happens to appear in quite a few of my Facebook photos.” Killian spilled nervously, going back to mixing the rice and meat concoction for his and Emma’s quesadillas. “It would be fake, I just need you to pretend. It’s just for the evening Emma, but if you feel uncomfortable, then you don’t have to do it.”

Killian missed the disappointment in Emma’s eyes as he clarified the evening being a fake date as he was busy with dinner, but he was relieved when she agreed. “Of course I’ll go with you Killian. I’ll just see if David and M’s can watch Henry for the evening and we should be all set.”

Killian breathed a sigh of relief before smiling at Emma, and plating their dinner.

_____________

“What am I supposed to wear to the party?” Emma called from the bathroom where she was giving Henry a bath. Killian walked in from the living room so they weren’t yelling across the apartment.

“It’s a semi-formal evening, and something you already have should work. I don’t want you to have to purchase something new.” Killian replied.

“Well what if I want to buy a new dress? I mean I haven’t really had a formal occasion to dress up for since I had Henry and my undercover ops don’t count. I honestly don’t know if I even fit in some of my nicer dresses from before I was pregnant with Henry. Is there like a color I should keep in mind?” Emma asked while rinsing the shampoo out of Henry’s hair. Killian walked closer to the tub and bent down to play with Henry. At the sudden change in caregivers available to him, Henry squealed and ended up splashing both Emma and Killian.

“I think he wants to call you something, but he just doesn’t know what.” Emma smiled at Henry, wiping the water out of his eyes.

“Hmm?” Killian didn’t understand where she was going with the abrupt change in topics.

“Henry I mean. He’s been calling me ‘Mama’ pretty consistently in the last like two weeks, so I am sure he’s getting ready to say another word. You are the next closest to him for sure, I mean he loves you. Don’t tell M’s that, she’ll get upset.” Emma and Killian both laughed at her comment. “I think he wants to call you something, but he’s nearly 13 months old. He’s not about to call you ‘Killian’. He reaches for you every time he sees you, and he always babbles at you. I just think he doesn’t know. It’s not like he has someone else he’s calling ‘dada’ or anything. I know I’m rambling, but maybe you had something in mind for him to call you? I’ve been meaning to talk to you about it for a few days now.” Emma finished.

Killian studied Emma as she continued washing Henry. She looked genuinely nervous about bringing this up to him, and it suddenly dawned on Killian why. “Emma, love, I’m not going anywhere. You have to know that right?” Killian asked.

Emma wiped away the beginnings of tears forming and laughed nervously. “I’m just afraid, Killian. But I know you, and I know you are not going to leave right now, but-”

“Never, Emma. I am not ever going anywhere. I will always be here for you and Henry. Always.” Killian said. He watched a few tears make their way down Emma’s cheeks as she nodded, and he could tell she wanted to say something else, but he didn’t push her any farther.

_____________

“Killian told me it didn’t matter what color dress I wore to the holiday party.” Emma said, frustrated without any further instructions from Killian.

“Yeah, because Killian knows nothing about fashion and honestly could care less.” Elsa said while pulling into the shopping center. Emma asked Elsa to come with her to dress shop. Emma met Elsa a few months after knowing Killian, and the two have been close friends since.

“I guess I’ll just have to see what dresses they even have and which ones fit. I know I’m not going to wear like orange or hot pink. Probably not pink at all, it’s not really my color.” Emma said.

“I’m just excited you asked me to come! I haven’t had any “girl” time in a while between work and taking care of Liam. I swear he is so dramatic when he’s sick.” Elsa said, making both women laugh.

Two hours and four stores later, Emma came out of the dressing room finally feeling confident in her dress. Between being a larger size because of her pregnancy and low-cut skimpy looking dresses, she hadn’t had much luck and was starting to feel defeated.

“Wow, this has got to be the dress Emma! You look stunning!” Elsa exclaimed before Emma was fully out of the stall.

“Do you really think so?” Emma questioned, suddenly feeling nervous under Elsa’s gaze.

“Absolutely! Killian will have to finally ask you out on a real date after he sees you all dressed up!” Elsa exclaimed!

“I don’t want him to feel forced Elsa, that’s not why I agreed to go with him and that’s not my intention.” Emma said.

“I know that isn’t your intention Emma, but I promise you he likes you too. You guys just need to stop dancing around each other.” Elsa assured Emma.

“I don’t know Elsa. If he actually liked me more than just a friend he would have just asked me instead of making a big deal about how it was all just fake.” Emma sighed.

“He’s a bloody idiot Emma. He’s been hurt before too, and I know he thinks you don’t like him back.” Elsa said.

Emma looked skeptical. “Well do we think this dress is fine for this party?” Emma asked.

Elsa just nodded her head, knowing Emma was uncomfortable facing the truth about her and Killian.

_____________

“Alright little lad, let’s get you out of your car seat aye?” Killian said to Henry as he worked to unbuckle him from the car.

“Killian I want to put his little hat that Granny made him on!” Emma said, coming around the car to assist Killian. Although he only had one functioning hand and a prosthetic, he did a pretty remarkable job doing everything he needed for himself, and Henry.

“Alright love, I’ve got him steady so you can put his hat on.” Killian said, turning around with Henry in his arms. Henry was happily babbling and surprisingly let Emma put his hat on.

“Okay kid, let’s also get this coat zipped up. It’s freezing out here.” Emma said, blowing raspberries on Henry’s cheeks as she zipped up his small puffy coat. Henry broke out into giggles in Killian’s arms, causing Emma and Killian to join in on the laughter. They started walking towards the store, and Henry was content as could be in Killian’s arms, even snuggling his face into Killian’s neck when the wind began to blow. Henry’s cuddles amused Killian, so he started tickling the toddler who erupted into more giggles.

“Killian?!” A shrill female voice called, breaking the three out of their laughter. There was a small, petite blonde woman who stood a few feet away from them with a few shopping bags in her hands.

“Hey Tink, what brings you out to the stores today?” Killian greeted his colleague.

“Just some last minute Christmas shopping. I found out I was supposed to buy some gifts for Jefferson’s parents who are coming into town for the holidays. How about you guys? Oh, and this must be-”

“Emma! Killian’s girlfriend.” Emma interrupted the smaller woman.

“Oh Emma, nice to meet you. I’m Tink, or really Rose, but everyone calls me Tink. I work with Killian in the history department at the university. Are you coming to our faculty holiday party with Killian?” Tink asked.

“Yeah! I’m really looking forward to meeting all of Killian’s coworkers.” Emma smiled.

“And who is this little guy? I didn’t know you had a child, Killian!” Tink exclaimed.

“Oh he’s actually Emma’s son, I am-”

“Raising him as if Henry was his own. Killian’s a really stand-up guy. And Henry absolutely loves him as you can tell.” Emma interrupted. The three adults turned their eyes towards Henry, who suddenly was shy with all of the attention and turned his face into Killian’s neck once again.

“Aww, Killian, that is so sweet! And he is just adorable! You guys are so lucky to have each other!” Tink gushed.

“Yeah, we really are,” Emma said, sliding her arm around Killian’s back. Killian looked alarmed at Emma’s sudden change in behavior, but Emma just smiled to reassure him.

“Well, you two lovebirds have a great day out shopping! And I look forward to seeing you again at the holiday party Emma! Bye Killian!” Tink called, before walking away from the pair. Both Killian and Emma said their goodbyes before continuing walking towards the store.

“She’s cute,” Emma commented, finally untangling herself from Killian’s side.

“Hmm?” Killian questioned. He attempted to put Henry in the shopping cart, but Henry was not budging from Killian’s arms. Emma instead grabbed the cart as they continued on into the store.

“Tink. She’s cute. She’s friendly. She’s nice. She’s bubbly. I’m just surprised you’ve never asked her out or anything.” Emma said, fighting the jealousy she felt coursing through her veins. Killian abruptly stopped in front of Emma and the cart, causing Emma to run into him. “What?” Emma questioned his facial expression and abrupt stop.

“While Tink might be those things, she is nothing compared to you Emma.” Killian said sternly.

“What?” Emma asked, completely dumbfounded by Killian’s confession.

“Emma, surely you must know.” Killian quietly said.

“Know what? Killian, you aren’t making any sense.” Emma said, quieting her voice as well.

“You are simply stunning love, and no other woman could possibly compare to you.” Killian whispered.

“You think I’m stunning?” Emma said, holding back tears in her eyes. Emma didn’t often feel pretty or beautiful, let alone stunning. But maybe Killian telling her as if his life depended on it would make her believe that she was stunning.

“Of course love. How could you ever question such a thing?” Killian sighed, nearly exasperated that he had to spell out things about Emma that he thought were obvious.

“I mean, not a single person in my entire life has ever said anything like that to me before. And even if someone had said something remotely similar, it’s not like I trust a lot of people.” Emma said.

“Hey! Get out of the aisle! This is not a place for deep conversations! Go home for that!” A short and stout middle-aged man yelled from behind them. Upon looking at the man again, his name almost could be ‘Grumpy’ Emma mused to herself while she and Killian moved to the side of the aisle, letting the man pass. The grumpy man growled at them as he passed, which Henry tried to imitate. Both Emma and Killian apologized and tried to get Henry to stop growling, effectively breaking up their little moment. They both laughed at Henry, before continuing on their shopping trip. While neither spoke of their conversation again, it was in the back of their minds for the rest of the day.

_____________

“Yeah, we should be by to drop him off around 5:30. I’ll bring his pack ‘n play and all of his stuff so he can stay with you guys for the night, and I’ll be there to pick him up for his morning feeding tomorrow.” Emma said to David, while standing in his office at the precinct.

“Sounds great Emma. Mary Margaret and I are looking forward to some quality time with our little man.” David smiled, patting Emma on the back. She smiled and thanked him before heading out into the bullpen. It didn’t take a detective to realize that Emma and David had a special bond outside of work, but the detectives that were in their unit knew better than to comment on any conversation Emma and David had that wasn’t about a case. Emma’s partner Ruby was the only one to sometimes nag Emma over her conversations. This being the perfect time for Ruby to pry into her normally closed-off partner’s personal life. Ruby smirked at Emma as she left David’s office, and Emma just shook her head.

“Spit it out, Ruby.” Emma said with a smile.

“Dropping the little monster off at David’s? That must mean you actually have plans on a Friday night. Who are you?” Ruby teased.

“I actually do have plans on a Friday night. I know, shoot me.” Emma played along to Ruby’s questioning.

“And what might the normal home-body be doing on a Friday night that Henry can’t come and is going to stay the night at David’s?” Ruby pried.

“Going to a holiday party. You don’t really bring a one-year-old to holiday parties.” Emma said.

“Holiday party? Without David and Mary Margaret? And it’s not like we have a holiday party outside of having pizza delivered. Emma Swan, what holiday party are you going to?” Ruby asked.

“It’s with Killian’s coworkers. I get the lovely opportunity to be his ‘fake date’ for the evening.” Emma sighed, still wishing Killian would have just asked her to go with him as an actual couple.

“Oh. He didn’t ask you to be his real date?”

“No. He made himself very clear that it was just a one-time thing as his fake date since he always goes to the holiday parties alone and his coworkers mistook me for his girlfriend because I’m in some of his Facebook posts.” Emma said.

“Well, maybe it’s time you took this problem into your own hands and asked him out yourself. I mean, Killian practically fawns over you every time I have ever met the guy. And goodness knows you are head over boots for him.” Ruby said.

“Head over boots?” Emma questioned.

“We all know you don’t wear heels Emma Swan. Don’t take me for a fool.”

“Oh, well I plan on wearing heels tonight. I have no idea how that’s going to go.” Emma stated.

“Girl, you better make him swoon! Do you need help with your hair and makeup?” Ruby asked, suddenly very excited to see her partner and friend all dolled up for an evening out.

“No, I don't need any assistance. I know how to apply make-up, Ruby. I wear some every day.” Emma said.

“Alright alright, fine. You don’t need any help. But girl you better have him as your man when you come back to work on Monday!” Ruby excitedly said, before Emma’s desk phone started ringing.

“Detective Swan,” Emma answered, relieved to be through with the conversation with Ruby.

_____________

“Alright kid, I’ll see you in the morning, okay? You be good for Uncle David and Auntie M’s alright?” Emma told Henry, giving him one more kiss on the head before putting him down on the ground to toddle around. She gave David and then Mary Margaret a quick hug while thanking them again.

“You know we love watching him Emma! Go, you two have fun! Can’t wait to hear about the party over breakfast tomorrow morning!” Mary Margaret beamed.

“Breakfast? I was planning on just dropping by to pick him up.” Emma questioned.

“Oh, I figured we could go to Granny’s for breakfast so we can hear everything about how it went!” Mary Margaret exclaimed.

“Just for the record, some of us don’t want to hear everything.” David grumbled.

“David! Stop being the protective big brother! Your sister is a grown adult and can manage herself just fine!” Mary Margaret scolded David.

“Thanks M’s. And Dad, we’ll be fine. Thanks for watching Henry, but we really have to get out of here if we are going to make it on time.” Emma said, before ushering her and Killian out the door and into Killian’s car.

“Sorry he’s weird. He just worries about me since the whole being-left-alone-and-pregnant thing. I mean, he’s worried about me since Ruth adopted me when I was seventeen, but it’s gotten worse since I got knocked up.” Emma said.

“It’s alright love. I know he’s just looking out for you.” Killian smiled. Emma had been through a lot of her life alone, but Killian was glad to know she had more than himself to care about and look after Emma. They drove the rest of the way in peaceful silence, before walking into the hotel where the holiday party was being held. They got on the elevator and headed to the 13th floor, where the actual party was being hosted in the event space in the hotel. Once on the elevator, Emma threaded her arm through Killian’s and gave him a soft smile.

“I never got to tell you that you look stunning, Swan.” Killian stated.

Emma blushed, before attempting to respond. “And you look…”

“I know. And thank you again for coming tonight. I hope you can marginally enjoy yourself. I mean, at least you know Belle and Graham.” Killian said.

“Yeah.Plus I met a few of them last year at your little birthday gathering. I know it’s been a while. Also, today at work Graham seemed pretty excited that I was going with you. I think he was dreading not knowing anyone but you and Belle.” Emma said as the elevators opened.

The first person Emma recognized upon walking out of the elevator was Will, Killian’s good friend and fellow history professor. Will helped throw Killian’s birthday celebration, so Emma had met him before.

“Killian! Emma! It’s bloody fantastic to see you two here!” Will said in greeting.

“Will, good to see you.” Emma said while giving him a side-hug. “How have you been?”

The party continued as well as could be expected for both Emma and Killian. No one seemed to think the pair weren’t together, besides the few that knew it was fake- Belle, Graham, and Will. Emma met all of Killian’s coworkers through the course of the night. Killian’s least favorite colleague- Walsh, was just as stuck up and obnoxious as Killian had warned. His wife Zelena, who was a physics professor, was also particularly unpleasant. Emma met Regina, the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. They ran into Tink and her boyfriend Jefferson, and Emma didn’t feel any jealousy at seeing the woman again. Tink asked a lot of questions about Henry, which Emma was happy to talk about. Emma also met Ashley, or “Cinderella” as Killian called her. Ashley and her husband Sean were kind, and Ashley seemed particularly excited to see Emma in the flesh. Ashley promptly invited Emma and Killian to come to the New Year’s Eve party she was hosting at her apartment. There was also Lancelot, a professor who focused on the history of the Middle Ages and the Medieval Time Period. Lancelot’s girlfriend Mulan used to teach history, but now focuses on her love for sports and is the Director of Athletics at the university.

Most of the evening was spent near Belle and Graham, who is a detective in Emma’s unit. Emma had introduced Belle and Graham after meeting Belle, and she was happy to see that Belle and Graham were happy with each other. Will also hung around them for most of the evening, as he was one of Killian’s closest friends and knew Emma. Most people were drinking a decent amount of alcohol, but Emma hadn’t had more than a glass of wine, and Killian had only had a glass of rum. Will, however, was quite intoxicated by the end of the evening. He was telling stories about Killian which made Killian blush and Emma laugh. Will was so caught up in his story and his alcohol that he slipped up and blabbed about Killian’s secret love for Emma.

“Yeah, well we thought Killian had grown a pair since then, but he had to beg Emma to come as his date because he won’t be a man and actually ask her out like he wants to.” Will slurred.

“Will!” Killian scolded, quickly getting up from his chair to try and stop Will from speaking.

“He’s so in love with Emma that he can’t see that maybe-” Will started again. Killian grabbed Will and physically dragged him out of Emma’s vicinity before any more damage could be done. Emma tried to ignore Will’s comments and act natural, tuning back to Belle and Graham. Not knowing what else to talk about, Emma asked Graham about the case they had been working on. When Killian didn’t come back to the table after a while, Emma excused herself to go find him. She thought he might be at the bar, downing some rum after Will spilled Killian’s secret.

After checking the bar, Emma noticed Killian was sitting at a table out on the patio, so she went outside to join him. Emma knew he could hear her approaching- her heels were not quiet- yet he didn’t turn around. She pulled out the chair that was next to him and sat down, staring out at the New York City skyline.

“You love me?” Emma questioned quietly after several moments of silence between the pair.

“Yes.” Killian responded, just as quietly as Emma. “I didn’t want to ruin our friendship, but you and Henry mean everything to me Emma. I didn’t mean for this to go like this, I just-”

“Why didn’t you ask me out? We’ve been friends for what, nearly two years? You could have asked Killian.” Emma interrupted.

“I couldn’t risk that you didn’t feel the same. So, I have worked hard since I realized I was in love with you to pretend like I wasn’t, because I will gladly sacrifice my feelings for continuing to be friends with you and close to Henry.” Killian said with tears starting to form. He ran his hand down his face before taking a deep breath and looking at Emma. She looked surprised, and also looked like she had some tears forming.

“You traded your happiness for me?” Emma asked.

“Aye,” Killian responded matter-of-factly, nodding his head slightly to emphasize his point. Emma slowly leaned closer until her face was inches away from Killian’s, before leaning the rest of the way in and kissing Killian. After running out of breath, Emma pulled away shyly with a blush on her cheeks.

“I love you too.” Emma said simply.

“What?” Killian asked, stupefied.

“I love you, and I have spent the last two weeks wishing you would just ask me to come to this stupid party as your actual date. I don’t trust a lot of people, and I’m not good with words. But, I know that I can’t lose you like I’ve lost other people. I’ve been so afraid that you didn’t like me as more than a friend, and I was scared. But I’m not scared anymore Killian. I love you, and I-” Killian cut her off with a kiss of his own. The two embraced each other and reveled in their newfound intimacy. Eventually, the DJ of the faculty party announced that there would be one more slow song of the night, and the announcement effectively broke the couple’s passionate kiss.

“Care to dance, Swan?” Killian asked while offering Emma his hand.

“You know how to dance or whatever it is you’re supposed to do?” Emma asked.

“Of course.” Killian responded.

“Well, I’m taking off these shoes first,” Emma stated while unclasping her heels. “What am I supposed to do?” Emma asked after standing up.

“There’s only one rule: Pick a partner who knows what he’s doing.” Killian smirked. Emma blushed and smiled, but allowed Killian to dance and twirl her around on the patio.

_____________

“Hey, we have to check out a few addresses before I can get out of here. Do you think you could relieve the babysitter and watch Henry for the rest of the afternoon and evening?” Emma asked Killian over the phone.

“Of course love. I told you to let me watch him when I’m home, especially now that I’m done for the semester.” Killian replied before getting up from his chair and putting his shoes and coat on, preparing to go over to Emma’s apartment.

“I know, but just because we are dating now doesn’t mean you have to always watch Henry. He’s not your responsibility.” Emma said.

“He might not be my responsibility, but you must know that I love spending time with the lad. And watching him is not any trouble, love. I’m heading over now to relieve the babysitter. Text me when you are on your way home.” Killian replied.

“Okay, thanks Killian. I owe you big time. Love you,” Emma said. Killian smiled before telling her he loved her as well and ending the call.

_____________

Emma sighed as she made her way up the stairs to her apartment. She ended up staying an extra six hours trying to catch their perp before they finally caught him hiding out in an abandoned storefront. She smiled to herself knowing that Killian and Henry would be waiting for her once she got home. She quietly unlocked the door, making sure not to make too much noise in case Killian was putting Henry to bed or had just put him to bed. Emma heard Killian’s faint voice reading aloud upon entering her apartment, and followed his voice down the hall to Henry’s room. Both of her boys were so entranced by the book Killian was reading- “Papa, Please Get The Moon For Me”- that neither heard her standing in the doorway. She listened as Killian read, and saw Henry’s eyes start to droop. Just when Emma thought Henry was going to fall asleep, he suddenly pointed to something in the book.

“Papa.” Henry said.

“Aye lad, that is Monica’s Papa.” Killian responded, keeping Henry engaged in their conversation. Henry looked at Killian curiously for a minute before smiling wide.

“Papa!” Henry exclaimed, only he wasn’t looking at the book anymore. Henry’s sole focus was on Killian. “Papa!” Henry excitedly said again, before snuggling into Killian’s torso.

“That’s right Henry, that is your Papa. He’s the best Papa, isn’t he?” Emma said, making herself known to both Henry and Killian.

“Mama!” Henry squealed upon seeing his mother.

“Hey kid, I missed you today.” Emma greeted. Henry extended his arms asking to be picked up by Emma and she obliged, needing some Henry cuddles after her long day at work.

“Mama Mama Mama!” Henry babbled while snuggling his face into Emma’s neck.

“Yeah, Mama’s home Henry. Mama’s home.” Emma sighed, closing her eyes for a minute.

“Mama?” Henry said.

“Yeah kid?” Emma replied. Henry turned his head so he was looking at Killian before pointing at him.

“Papa. Mama, Papa!” Henry said.

“Yeah Henry, he is your Papa. You want to give Papa a few more snuggles before bedtime?” Emma said, trying to hold back tears that Henry finally called Killian by ‘name’.

“Papa Papa Papa” Henry babbled, reaching for Killian. Killian was silent through the entire interaction between Emma and Henry, but he was crying by the time Emma placed Henry back in his arms. Henry quickly snuggled up to Killian before falling asleep.

“Hey Papa. How was he?” Emma asked, letting her own tears fall freely at this point.

“He was good as always Swan. He called me ‘Papa’.” Killian said.

“Yeah, he did. And I can’t think of a more perfect title for you Killian. You know, you’ve been his ‘Papa’ in my eyes since the day you saved his life.” Emma said.

Emma had never felt fear like she did the day Killian called her, frantically informing her to meet him at the Children’s Hospital Emergency Room. Killian had thankfully been in his apartment that day, or Henry would have died. The babysitter was working on getting Henry to eat some soft foods, but turned away to cut another piece of banana and didn’t see Henry shove too much banana in his mouth. Henry started coughing, but ended up lodging a chunk of banana in his throat.

The babysitter had no idea what to do, and ran to Killian’s door with Henry, screaming for help. Killian immediately opened the door, saw Henry choking, and safely performed the Heimlich. The maneuver is different for an infant over an adult, and the babysitter didn’t have any training in the Heimlich for children. Killian, seeing the worry and stress in the babysitter’s face, told her to go home for the day and Killian assured her that he would take Henry for the rest of the day until Emma got home.

Once the babysitter left, Killian still felt uneasy about Henry in the aftermath of the choking incident. To be sure, he decided to take Henry to the children’s ER and called Emma on his way to the hospital. Emma immediately left work to go be with Henry and Killian at the hospital, and Emma was so relieved to find out that Henry was okay. Emma knew Killian had single-handedly saved Henry’s life, and she was not soon to forget it. From that day forward, Emma knew Killian would do anything for her son, and although she hadn’t actually talked to Killian about it, she began viewing Killian as Henry’s father.

“And, I know I told you a million times, but I feel like I never got to thank you, Killian.” Emma smiled. She walked over to where Killian was sitting in the rocking chair with Henry before leaning down and pressing her lips to Killian’s.

Killian smiled at her, before teasing Emma. “I could get used to that kind of thank you.”

“I’ll kiss you any time, but let’s not have another hospital incident. I don’t think I could handle it.” Emma said, stroking Henry’s soft light-brown hair. .

“Me neither love. That was one of the worst days of my life.” Killian reflected.

“Oh mine for sure. Let’s get this little man to bed and then I’ll really thank you.” Emma smirked.

_____________

“Mama Mama Mama!” was the first thing Emma heard in the morning. She rolled over to see the baby monitor and noticed Henry was contentedly babbling her name while sitting up in his crib. She looked at the time-6:45- an hour later than Henry normally slept in. It truly was a Christmas miracle. Emma quietly extracted herself from the strong arms around her torso and out of the bed so as not to wake Killian. She quietly made her way down the hallway to Henry’s nursery, where he was now babbling both “Mama” and “Papa” hoping for someone’s attention.

“Hey kid, good morning!” Emma greeted in a whispered sing-song voice.

“Mama!” Henry exclaimed as Emma lifted him out of the crib and snuggled him.

“Hey my baby. How’d you sleep?” Emma said, placing Henry down on his changing table so she could change his diaper. “Let’s get you cleaned up, huh?” Henry continued to babble to her, and Emma dutifully nodded her head along and responded to some of his more question-like babbles. After changing his diaper, Emma pulled out a new Christmas onesie from the drawer.

“I think we should surprise Papa and put your new PJs on that he got you. How about thar? Should we surprise your Papa?” Emma asked Henry.

“Papa! Papa Papa!” Henry squealed.

“Yeah, I think Papa would like that too.” Emma replied, before putting his new PJs on. Once Henry was changed and clean, Emma carried him to the kitchen to turn the kettle on the stove on to make hot cocoa in a little bit. Then, she brought Henry back down the hall towards her bedroom and lightly set Henry down on her bed just as Killian opened his eyes.

“Well good morning little lad!” Killian greeted Henry.

“Papa!” Henry squealed before crawling across the bed towards Killian. Emma and Killian smiled, still not over Henry calling Killian ‘Papa’. Emma slipped back into bed under the covers before snuggling up to her boys.

“I figured we could cuddle some before starting our big day- Henry’s second Christmas.” Emma told Killian.

“That sounds like a lovely plan, Swan.” Killian smiled before pulling Emma closer to him and Henry.

“Merry Christmas, Killian. I am so glad you are here with us.” Emma smiled.

“Merry Christmas, my love. There is no place I would rather be than right here with both of you.” Killian replied. After some babbling for attention from Henry, both adults laughed.

“Merry Christmas to you too, kid. I am so glad I get to be your Mom.” Emma said, feeling more content than she had in quite some time.

----------------------

Happy Holidays @sotangledupinit !!! 🌲⛪⛄❄️☃️

I hope you enjoyed your CS Gift Exchange Fic! This was my first fanfiction that I've written in many years so hopefully it's not too bad! Hope you have a lovely New Year and have been having Happy Holidays!!

[jrob64]

Always in My Heart - a CS Modern AU story

Hello @nachocheese-itsmycheese ! In case you haven’t figured it out, I’m your CS Gift Exchange person! When I saw that you requested a one bed, sick fic, modern AU, with Emma & Killian being childhood best friends, I had to snap that request up! I may have strayed from it just a bit, but I think I have fulfilled all your wishes. Oh, I also included a little shout out to you somewhere in this chapter!

I couldn’t fit the entire story into one chapter and what I have planned lent itself to being an MC, so this is the first of 4 chapters. Chapter 2 is well on its way to being written and the other two are plotted out, but I’m not able to tell you when the rest of them will post. I beg you for your patience!

This story wouldn’t be possible without @hookedmom using her super beta skills, and the encouragement of @cs-rylie . Also, @kmomof4 was invaluable in helping me plot the story. Thank you to the mods of @csgiftexchange for this very fun event!

STORY SUMMARY: As children in the same foster home, Emma Swan and Killian Jones became best friends. After being separated, they lost touch for 14 years and thought they would never see each other again. 

A chance meeting in London changes everything. 

RATING: M for smut in a future chapter. Also be aware there will be a minor character death later in the story.

WORDS (Ch. 1): 6245

Also posted to Ao3 and ffn

Find the story under the cut. 

*********

Keep reading

[kazoosandfannypacks]

I saw this post going around about how there's not a lot of interaction for @cssecretsanta2020 and also @csgiftexchange [hope it's okay that I tagged you guys] between the gifters and their people. I know there's quite a few people who probably feel the same way, so I've decided to make a Captain Swan Christmas Ask Game. Obviously, anyone can participate, reblog, and send asks, but it also might be helpful for those of us who aren't quite sure what questions to ask our giftees.

GIftees, if you want a little more interaction from your secret santa/gift exchanger, (or just other users in general!) feel free to reblog!

Givers, if your giftee has reblogged this, you know have a few ideas for some questions to ask them (and don't forget to reblog it yourself so your giver can hit you up with some asks)

Without any further overexplanation from kazzy: Captain Swan Christmas Ask Game

How long have you been a Once Upon a Time Fan?

Around what point in the series did you start shipping Captain Swan?

Favorite Captain Swan scene?

What are some non-Captain Swan ships you ship?

What are you most looking forward to this Christmas?

How are you doing on your giftexchange/secretsanta gift?

Do you have a favorite holiday tradition?

Favorite Christmas/holiday treat?

Favorite hot drink?

On a scale of 1-10, how much do you decorate/prepare for Christmas?

Got most of your holiday shopping done?

Do you feel like you have a set Christmas aesthetic?

What's a favorite holiday memory of yours?

Favorite Christmas movie?

Favorite Christmas song?

Favorite Christmas TV special episode?

What does Christmas mean to you?

Do you have any Captain Swan Christmas headcanons?

Favorite Captain Swan headcanons in general?

Have you ever participated in this kind of event before?

Favorite kind of Christmas cookie?

A few of your favorite CaptainSwan fic recommendations (either ones you wrote or ones you've read.)

What's Christmas morning like for you?

Do you do any of the holiday cooking/baking?

Do you have any favorite christmas outfits or accessories?

Do you own any OUaT merch?

What's your biggest Christmas wish this year?

What are some of your favorite platonic relationships Killian and Emma have?

What are some of your non-ouat OTPs?

What's your opinion on X [character, story arc, holiday thing, ext.]

Merry Christmas, loves!

[csgiftexchange]

This is great but let me be clear:

For Captain Swan GIFT EXCHANGE you DO NOT have to interact with your giftee.

That was never a requirement. You can if you want to but you don’t have to.

[csgiftexchange]

Hi everyone! Hope you’re all doing well and your gifts are coming along.

If anyone ever has any questions or needs some help feel free to each out I try my best to answer everything within 24 hours.

Don’t forget I have Santa helpers waiting in the wings if you need a beta reader, someone to help you look for the perfect picture, someone to bounce ideas around with, read your giftees wants and donts and try to provide you some prompts.