Runaway- CaptainSwan AU

• Chapter 10 •

"What do you think? Sparkly or shiny, love?"

Christmas was only two days away, and just like every year prior, the Jones family was hosting a holiday party. Each year, Alice and Brennan would organize the most extravagant celebration which nearly the entire block they lived on and beyond attended. Apparently, it 'helped to build a good reputation with the people.'

Most years, Killian would simply remain in his room, appearing downstairs only to sneak the occasional snack. His parents hardly noticed, anyway. Often times, they were too busy chatting up the rich neighbors in case they ever 'found themselves in an emergency.'

More like so they could enjoy a free, expensive dinner.

Every Christmas, Killian's parents always bought him the same gift: A book. Book after book after book. It was the same for his birthdays. He definitely enjoyed reading, but come on. Some variety, perhaps?

This year seemed to be different, though. This year, Killian was actually looking forward to the holiday. He guessed that Emma had never celebrated the holiday before, and he was certainly looking forward to showing her all the wonders of Christmas. Plus, it seemed she could use a happy distraction with the Barkleys looking for her.

While his mother was at work, Killian brought Emma upstairs from the basement to assist him in decorating the house. The way her face lit up at the sight of so much to hang and decorate was surely worth going out to buy the decorations. He'd told Alice he simply wanted to be more involved this year, but that was far from the truth. All he wanted was to see Emma smile.

"That's a tough one," Emma scowled. "How about sparkly and shiny," she grinned.

"Now, now, don't go pushing me, Swan," Killian teased. "Come on, these go on the tree," he said, leading her to the large living room.

An enormous Christmas tree glittered in all its glory in front of the large windows on the wall. Snow fell in delicate flakes, creating a canvas-like background.

"So, where do I hang them?" Emma asked, referring to the ornaments.

"Anywhere you want, love," Killian replied, beginning to attach the festive orbs to the branches of the pine tree.

Emma bit her lip and smiled.

"Anywhere?" she confirmed. Killian nodded. "Even... even the top?"

Killian chuckled at her excitement.

"Of course, love. Although, I suggest using the ladder should you decide to decorate the upper branches."

Emma's response was a grin. She grabbed a handful of ornaments, climbed up a few steps of the ladder, and began hanging them.

"In the system..." Emma started quietly. Killian looked up to meet her eyes, intrigued. She was about to open up a bit... he could feel it. "We never got to celebrate Christmas. I didn't know who Santa was until I was eleven years old, and I only ever saw one Christmas tree in all my placements," Emma admitted. "Thanks for letting me help with this," she smiled. "It means a lot more than you know."

Killian smiled back. Firstly, because of the little light she'd shed on her past for him. Because she'd taken the chance and opened herself up just the tiniest bit. He cherished moments like this greatly... moments where he knew she trusted him fully. Secondly, because of how happy this experience was making her. Killian was more than happy to show Emma the ways of Christmas.