On Tumblr, a few choice authors began sending prompts revolving around Belle / Rumplestiltskin or their incarnations encountering bears. I don't know exactly why it started, but alcohol was probably involved at some point. This was my contribution.
I don't own Once Upon A Time or a bear of any kind.
Belle hummed to herself as she dusted the items littering the front counters. She called it littering, Rumple called it "on display". She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, making sure he was occupied with the book restoration he was currently working on, before surreptitiously moving a small figurine off the counter - and nearer to other similar items on a nearby shelf. Eventually, she would have everything straightened - and she doubt the pawnbroker would be any the wiser.
The bell rang, indicating a customer and she quickly set the duster aside and applied her widest smile before turning to greet them. Her eyes widened a bit at the site of the man. He was very tall, probably towering at least a foot and a half over Belle herself, and not only that, but very well muscled. He was an intimidating sight, and she swallowed, but wasn't worried. Nothing could harm her in this place.
"Welcome to Mr. Gold's." she said brightly, coming over to greet the man. He smiled, and looked away for a moment. Despite his hulking demeanor, he seemed shy. It endeared him to her automatically. "What can I help you find?"
"I'd like to see your watches."
"Certainly. We have an excellent selection." Belle made her way behind the counter, sliding the glass open, ready to take out a piece of his choice. All the watches were in one place at least - thankfully.
"May I see that one?" he indicated a man's watch in a soft sterling silver, the band narrow. Belle pulled it out of the display case, frowning softly. This watch wouldn't suit him. Something with a leather band perhaps would be better. Belle prided herself on excellent taste, and always tried to help her customers pick the right pieces for themselves.
"Would you like to try it on?" she asked uncertainly.
"Um, sure." the man frowned, suddenly looking slightly uncomfortable. Belle reached forward to clasp the watch around his wrist, trying not to let it catch on the significant blanket of hair that covered his arm. She leaned away, and they both looked at the watch around his wrist, sharing an uncertain glance.
"It looks a bit… underwhelming on you. Perhaps you'd like to look at some of the others?" she gestured to the display case.
"No. I'll take this one." he said, reaching to unclasp the lock.
"It's no trouble…" she began.
"It's a gift. For my boyfriend." he blushed, looking away.
"Oh." Belle was sure her eyebrows must have nearly his her hairline. She flushed slightly, turning away. "Of course. Let me just wrap that up for you."
The man stood patiently as she rang him up and handed him his purchase. He thanked her.
"Please come again." she blurted quickly before he walked out the door. He smiled and nodded, and then he was gone.
She let out a harsh breath, and suddenly felt an arm around her middle. Rumple pulled her to his side.
"You handled that rather well."
She groaned, hiding her face in her hands. "I'm an idiot."
"Hmm." He pursed his lips "Not an idiot - but I think your manager will need to see you in the back." He nipped at her ear.
"Oh. I guess I'd better lock up if we're going to have a … meeting."
"I guess you better had." He grinned wolfishly and watched her as she turned the sign to 'Closed' and with a trembling hand bolted the door. She looked back at him, and he cricked his finger slightly before disappearing into the back room.
She followed.
There has been a bit of confusion about this story. I'd like to point out that the term "bear" also refers to a gay man of a very masculine/burly physique.
