The Santa Sub: A Captain Swan Story

Part 6/6

It was Christmas Eve and a light snow had begun to fall. Emma made her way to the Rockefeller Christmas tree. She had been visiting it every day. It helped her feel closer to Killian.

They had been able to keep in touch through email, texts, calls, and Facetime. She could see something in him changing. He seemed content and like he had a purpose for the first time. Emma was happy for him, but still missed him terribly.

She had been hoping they could spend Christmas together. Every Christmas she had ever experienced had been dismal, except for the one with the family who had taken her to see the store window displays. She was always made to feel like an outsider or left all alone. As an adult, she figured it was easier to act like Christmas was just another day rather than face the pain of spending another one alone. But this year, she had Killian and her heart ached knowing she would still be alone this Christmas.

Emma watched the lights on the tree twinkle before her as the snow began to fall harder. She heard footsteps behind her, but didn't pay them any attention.

"Ah, we meet again," she heard come from behind her.

Just like at the airport, she was almost afraid to turn around. By the time she did, Killian had already closed the distance between them and was pulling her into his arms to kiss her. Emma sighed into the kiss, as she threaded her fingers through his hair and deepened it.

When they pulled back, she smiled at him. "I can't believe you're here."

"You didn't think I'd miss our first Christmas together, did you?" he asked.

Emma liked the sound of the word 'first'. It implied they had many Christmases in their future together.

"I missed you like crazy," she said.

"I missed you, too," he replied with a grin.

Emma smiled. "I have a surprise for you."

Killian arched his brow. "I'm intrigued."

She took his hand in hers. "Come on."

With that, she led the way out of Rockefeller Center.

...

Killian stopped in his tracks when they reached his father's penthouse.

"Why are we here?" he asked worriedly.

"Well, it is Christmas Eve and I'm sure your father would like to see you."

"I'm not sure I'm ready for that," he said.

Emma squeezed his hand. "Trust me, it's okay."

Killian nodded slowly as they made their way inside and found Mr. Jones in the library.

"Killian," he said, clearly surprised by his presence.

"Merry Christmas, Father."

"Merry Christmas, son."

They stood in awkward silence for a few long moments, until his father broke it.

"Emma told me about the work you've been doing in the Dominican. I'm proud of you."

Killian's eyes widened. He had never heard his father say that to him before. "Thank you."

Emma smiled. "Mr. Jones, why don't you tell Killian about the idea we came up with?"

Killian eyed them both with cautious interest. "What idea?"

"It's really more of a job offer," his father said.

Killian shook his head. "I appreciate it, Father, but I told you that I do not wish to work for you. That hasn't changed."

Emma rubbed her hand down his forearm. "Killian, I think you may change your mind when you hear what he has to say. Just give him a chance."