The Truth of the Matter

Feelings Revealed

Killian's POV

We caught both Neal and Gold and managed to save Emma, but we were still unsure of her well-being. She has been unconscious for several days, and everyday, our hope grows thinner. I hardly ever left her side. The doctors had tried to kick me out after visiting hours, but eventually gave up when I threatened to arrest them. I will admit, looking back on it, that may not have been my finest moment. I just couldn't bear to be parted from her.

It's been a week since we brought her in and there hasn't been a change. Still unconscious, still has tubes down her throat and up her nose. The only good thing is she isn't quite as pale as she was.
"Emma," I start. You know, the moment I saw you, when you walked into that bar, I knew you were different. You were beautiful. Confident. But there was something else pulling me to you. I couldn't place it at first, but then, when I went over to help you and I looked you right in the eye, I knew. All that confidence, it was just a cover for all the hurt you've had in your life and I knew I wanted to get to know you better. You were so closed off, and to be honest, you still are," I chuckle. "But that doesn't matter to me. You're strong, caring, and a light that shines in my life, as cliché as that sounds, but it's true. Emma, love, I need you. I know you're scared of commitment, and I get that, seeing some of what you've been through, but I'll never leave you. I want to be by your side through everything. I want to support you and care for you, like you should be. I will never leave you, love. I know what it's like to be alone, to not have anyone and it's not something I'd wish on my worst enemy. You don't deserve the life you've been dealt. You deserve happiness and security and I want to be that for you. I've known it for a while, but this has truly put it in perspective and I'm not going to wait any longer. I love you, Emma Swan."
It's quiet for a few moments before she starts coughing and gasping. I quickly call for the doctor who quickly removes the tube from her throat.
"Ms. Swan, can you hear me?" the doctor asks.
She nods.
"Good. I'm going to run a couple tests now that you're awake and then let you rest."
He pokes and prods her, checking for movement and checks her pupils and all the various machines she's hooked up to, then leaves.
"Oh Emma," I sigh, gently hugging her.
"Killian...did you mean it?" she asks nervously.
I give her a questioning look. Then it dawns on me and my cheeks redden slightly.
"Every word."
The tears run down her cheeks and she leans into me.
"I love you too."
It's a faint whisper, but it's there. My heart warms in happiness.
"Emma, this might not be the best time to ask this, but I just can't wait any longer. Would you be my girlfriend?"
She freezes momentarily before relaxing again.
"Killian, I... You know I'm not very good when it comes to relationships. They're just not my thing."
The sadness creeps back in and I start feeling defeated.
"But, I'm willing to try with you."
I smile so big my face hurts. She accepted! I kiss her passionately, but with caution.
"I love you, Swan."
"I love you, Jones."