The Magic Within ↠ Once Upon A Time

[Chapter 28] The Jaanavar Jungle

~Emma's POV~

The bell chimes as I push open the white wooden door, and I kick the door behind me, making it slam shut, while my arms were busy carrying a large paper bag filled with food from Granny's. It was my turn to pick up lunch from Granny's. Not only was my grilled cheese in the bag, but also David's burger and Killian's sandwich. But, with Killian nowhere to be seen in the station all morning, I wasn't sure if my dad and I were going to end up splitting his lunch. It's odd for him not to be up at the crack of dawn.

I sigh and adjust the large bag in my arms. I search through my pockets and pull out my cellphone. I turn on the screen, expecting a missed call or a text from Killian, but frown when there was a blank screen, aside from my screensaver. Disappointed with the outcome, I shove the phone back into my jean pockets. Then, I lower the bag and shuffle through it, pushing aside each wrapped food. I hope the soda cans weren't put the bottom of the bag; I was really hoping for a pick me up since it was rather warm today.

While busying myself with the bag, I jump when I hear, "Swan!" I look up to find Killian next to me.

"Hey, there you are. I thought you wouldn't show up for lunch."

"Ah, sorry about that, Love." He scratches the back of his head. I notice his hair was messier than normal; it almost looks as bad as my bed hair.

"Were you asleep all morning? It's not like you. You usually like to be up early to get a better view of the beach."

"Well, I couldn't sleep at all. There were... a lot of things on my mind, and I thought taking a midnight walk would clear my head."

"So did it?"

"To... an extent."

"What could be keeping you up at night? Maybe I can help."

"It's nothing really. I should have it resolved in a couple of days."

"Well, don't let it kill you."

"I'll try not to let it."

Moving the bag of food to my other arm, I use my newly freed arm to hold onto Killian's hand. We cruise through the town's street, getting to the Sheriff's station as soon as possible. While turning the corner, I spot Henry and Melody rushing through the streets, possibly trying to get home. Their arms and Henry's backpack were stuffed with nothing but books. They must've gotten out of the library. Wonder what those two are up to?

"Henry!" I shout out.

The two stop by the curb and look over at us.

I take the chance to catch up to them before they decide to cross the street. "You two seem to have your hands full. Is there some sort of research paper that's due?"

"Uh, sort of," Henry answers. "Mel and I are just trying to pick up some info from... her home. I want to know more about where my sister is from."

"Yup," Melody chimes in, "It's easier to have him read then tell him the information myself. You know teenagers, they have selective hearing."

He glares at Melody. Well, she's right about the teenage attitude.

"Oh, interesting. Will you tell us about your findings when you're done?" Killian asks.

Melody opens her mouth, hesitating, before replying with, "Uh, sure. But, it'll take some time before we finish off... the reading."