K. Jones | Small Talk and Mediocre Coffee

Family Dinner

Killian sits in the cabin of his truck, sun visor flipped down as he fixes his hair in the tiny mirror. It's felt like a lifetime has passed since he's cared this much about his looks. In the time he's lived in Storybrooke, he's never had a reason to care much for his appearance; it's not like he was ever trying to impress anyone. However, since you've moved to town, Killian has found himself spending a few extra seconds every morning checking to make sure he looks somewhat presentable. He lets out a frustrated sigh as he looks at himself in the mirror. Even after several minutes of attempting to tame the unruly dark mop atop his head, his hair still looks as wild as ever.

Deciding it's best to just let it be, he flips the sun visor back up to its original position, exits his truck, and starts walking toward your apartment. Killian knocks on your front door before stuffing his hands into the pockets of his leather jacket. Within moments, the door opens, revealing you and your small, homey living room. You've changed out of your Granny's Diner uniform which shouldn't surprise him; however, it still makes him stop for a second. He supposes that it's because he sees you in uniform more often than not. You shoot Killian a bright smile while collecting all of your things from a side table next to your door.

"Ready to go?"

"Aye, love."

He waits as you lock your front door and then falls in step beside you. The two of you walk silently to Killian's truck out front. He debates whether or not he should open the passenger door for you. He feels like an idiot, overthinking such a simple and mundane act. It's really nothing, right? Just a nice gesture. David would do it. Hell, his momma is probably rolling in her grave over him even considering not being the gentlemen she raised Liam and him to be. He just doesn't want you to get the wrong idea. He almost laughs at the thought – as if that isn't the right idea. How dare you assume that his actions over the past several months indicate that he harbors any feelings for you. How dare you assume that when he's come to terms with the idea of secretly pining for you until you inevitably leave town and never see him again. Then, he'll just deal with the silent heartbreak of what could have been, in another universe, where he is a different man.

"Hey, you okay?"

Your voice pulls him out of his head.

"Aye, just having an off day is all."

You nod at his words. The look of concern does not leave your features; however, you don't push any further. Instead, you reach for the passenger side door. Well, guess that answers that. Killian slides into the driver's seat and turns up the music. You smile softly as he shifts the truck into drive. Classic rock, just like last night.

The drive is quiet which you're now thankful for as you stand in the doorway of David and Mary's home. You glance over at Killian who gives you an apologetic look.

"Welcome to family dinner."

You laugh at his words before shoving his arm playfully. David watches the two of you interact from across the room and meets Killian's eyes. He arches an eyebrow toward Killian who simply rolls his eyes in response. Mary swats David's arm as she notices the two of them.

"Leave him alone."

David sighs before accepting her request.

"I hope you two are hungry because David went a little overboard."

You turn toward Mary and David and watch as David lifts a platter full of burgers. Mary wasn't kidding. There was enough food to feed a small army even though there are only six of you here.

"Jesus."

You seem to be the only one who hears Killian, so you nudge him with your elbow in an attempt to quiet the man.