The Proposal

Chapter 4

Killian blinked his eyes, and rubbed his hand over his face. He was up with the sun, something ingrained in him from his years in the Navy. He got up and made his way to the living room so he would not wake Emma. She looked so peaceful, and he could not help but smile at her.

He went to the porch and dialed his brother's number, knowing he would be up at this hour.

"Morning, Little Brother. How's your trip?" Liam asked when he picked up.

"It's fine, Liam. Emma's family is actually really sweet. They live in a small town in Maine. It's similar to the town we grew up in.." He said softly.

"That's great, Killian. I'm happy for you. Maybe I'll get to visit it sometime." Liam paused. "What made you call this morning?"

Killian sighed. "Well, I just wanted to talk to someone.. I haven't exactly met a girlfriend's parents before, and it's kind of overwhelming me."

"You're polite and charming, Killian. Just be yourself. Don't let your fears get in your way, especially about your hand. If Emma loves you as you say, then her family will too."

"My hand has already caused trouble.. But that's beside the point. They're so kind, Liam.. It's making me miss Mum.." He sighed.

"Mum would be proud of you, Kil.. And I believe she would truly love Emma. Just relax, I'm sure Emma doesn't want you worrying."

"Aye, Liam. I doubt she would.. I um.. I gave Emma Mum's ring.. I just.. I thought Swan would appreciate the sentimentality." Killian told him softly.

"Good. I'm glad you did. I've got to help Elsa get the boys up for school, and get the baby ready. Call me again if you need anything, and tell Emma I said hello."

Killian said goodbye to his brother and went back into the kitchen. He was just starting a pot of coffee when David made his way down the stairs.

"Morning, Sir. Coffee should be ready in a moment." Killian said.

"Oh, thank you, Killian. You're up early." David commented.

"Aye, I spent years in the Navy, and it's a habit that never left me." He shrugged. "I was just speaking with my brother on the phone, so I kept myself busy."

David nodded. "Was your brother in the Navy too?"

"Aye, it was how he provided for me.. But now he's up this early because he's got two young boys, and a daughter who is a year old." He poured them both a cup of coffee.

David nodded. "I bet you're a great uncle. You were really good with Henry last night.. I um, I assume Emma talked to you about him?"

Killian nodded. "I love my niece and nephews, and yes, sir, she told me. He's a brilliant kid, I'm glad I got the chance to meet the lad. I know it's hard for Emma, she wishes he knew who she is to him."

David nodded. "I know she does.. Anyway, I'm sorry if I seemed tough on you yesterday. I'm just protective of Emma."

"I'm glad she has people now who are protective of her. She's so bloody independent, but everyone needs someone in their corner." Killian said softly.

David nodded and moved to start on breakfast for the family. Since it was Leo's birthday David was going to make his favorite, pancakes.

"I'm going to go check on Emma. I've been gone a couple hours now.." Killian said softly before making his way back to Emma's room.

She was still sound asleep, curled up in the comforter. He took a picture of her, figuring as her fiance he would have pictures of her on his phone.