Mary Margaret was sitting in her kitchen counter, sipping a cup of tea. Last night has been amazing and she caught herself smiling, remembering her best friends, sprawled on the couch – Emma as actually sitting cross-legged on the floor, her back resting against Ruby's legs – laughing and drinking and having fun. But what kept demanding her attention was Belle. She knew her better than anyone in the world, perhaps even better than she knew herself. They were as close as sisters, or closer even. And, as hard to believe it as it was, Belle was interested in Gold. The more Mary thought about it, the more sense it all made. She didn't know Gold, not well enough, no one did for that matter, but the little that she knew was enough. They were compatible. She was sure. Just like Emma used to always brag about her superpower – being able to know if someone was lying (which is extremely helpful if you're the town sheriff) - Mary's superpower was to detect love. It sounded a little cheesy but it was true. That was why she never gave up hope on James, even though he was engaged to be married to that other girl, Kathrin. She knew that what they had was not true. The same way that she knows that Belle chance at happiness lies with this secretive, withdrawn man. The problem was them. Belle was too hurt to even think about giving another chance at love, and Gold…Well. For what she knew and for what she heard, he never had a woman since his wife left. Not a girlfriend, not a fling, not even a one night stand. This was going to be tricky but if she let matters to their own devices nothing will happen. And she couldn't let that happen. This will require tact and finesse… And accomplices. But whom?

Finishing her tea she went to pick up her cell, dialing James's number. She needed to cancel their lunch… and promise to make up for him at dinner.

…..

Belle has been working since she got up but finally the deed was done. Her column for the newspaper was finally finished. It was only due on Friday but Belle wanted this to be a week dedicated to Mary and to herself, not one dedicated to work. She sent the file to her boss mail and was about to turn off her laptop when something hold her hand. It happened every single time. When she was working, the words seemed to flow. It was natural, organic even, to turn her thoughts into printed words. But when she tried to start on her novel, things just stop. It was infuriating and frustrating and plain stupid but, the truth of the matter was she was scared. She was terrified actually. Of being lousy, of being rejected, of being unable to finish what she started… All her life she knew she was going to be a writer. When she was younger she was either reading or writing. Her imagination was endless, boundless. But then came Gaston. It was easy, today, to see what he had done. All those false compliments, undermining her confidence little by little. This is really good. Not book material but still; or I admire your perseverance. Although you keep failing you never stop trying. One day she simply stopped trying (as was his intention all along) and buried her life-long dream in some deep, secluded place inside her heart. But now, even though she broke up with Gaston, the scars remained. Six months away from that jerk and this power over her was still holding.

Feeling angry and sorry for herself, Belle opened the word processor and willed herself to write. It was to no avail.

Suddenly her phone rang, warning her she got a text. Thinking of the devil. Gaston kept calling her and texting her, trying to win her back. As if she was stupid enough to fall for that again. Still, it was annoying. All the: I'm a man with needs; She was the one hitting on me; It meant nothing, it was just a one-time thing, was unnecessary and stressful. She didn't think Gaston capable of resorting to some sort of violence, but this insistence was upsetting. All the more reason to move away from Chicago, she thought.

A knock on door called her attention back to the present.

"Hey baby, are you decent?" Mary asked, already entering the room, covering her eyes with her hand and peeking through her fingers.

"I'm up and working, thank you very much. Not all of us are on vacation."

"You know I only wished to become a teacher to enjoy the summer vacation." Mary laughed, sitting on the bed.

"And a damn good reason too." Sitting next to Mary, Belle added: "I was only expecting to see you in the afternoon. Weren't you supposed to meet James for lunch?"

"Yeah but something came up. Some sort of emergency at the clinic." James was the town vet. His father wanted him to become a doctor but he was always passionate about animals so he decided for Veterinary. His father was angry for a while but he came to terms. He was expected to arrive on Friday, the day before the wedding.

"Nothing serious I hope?" Belle asked, a bit concerned. She loved animals as well.

"No, nothing of the sort." Mary tranquilized her. "It will just take a little time so he wouldn't be able to meet me for lunch. I decided to invite you instead, maybe show you the town afterwards. What do you think?" Mary was hoping Belle was available. In order to take her plan to another level she'll need to see Gold and Belle together to confirm her suspicions. Luckily, Mr. Gold owned the town bookstore, The Golden Scroll. It shouldn't be very difficult to convince Belle to visit it.

"I would love it sweetheart." Belle was glad for the opportunity to take her mind off of bad thoughts. Beside, hanging out with Mary was always fun.

"It's a date." Mary clapped, jumping to her feet. "I was thinking about having lunch first and then we can go check on the wedding cake and pick up my dress. Is it ok?"

"It's great, honey." Checking her wrist watch Belle asked: "It's almost lunch time. Shall we?

…..

Anthony Gold was not himself. Today should be as any other day, but it wasn't. All he seemed to think about was that beautiful girl, Belle French and that was not normal. When he saw her yesterday he felt something strange, different. His heart leaped and he felt this kind of uncomfortable, squeezing sensation in his stomach. It was unlike anything he had ever felt. On top of that he had trouble sleeping last night. His boy, Bae, was sleeping over at the Hatter's place, so his house was unusually quiet. It was the perfect chance to catch up with his reading (he was always behind in his reading) but he couldn't focus, no matter how hard he tried. He kept recalling those blue eyes. They we're the most beautiful shade of blue. And when she smiled, they seemed to sparkle, to become alight with a unique glow.

He forced himself to sleep, but the moment he woke up, sore and tired as if he had no rest at all, he realized, with a pang of something very similar to fear: he was developing feelings for her. Romantic feelings. He thought he was over this, over this type of sentiment. As if he didn't suffer enough because of these blasted, cursed feelings. No. He was not going to think about those times. It was over and done and he was not falling for that again. Besides, she was beautiful and young, so definitely not interested in him. And by the end of the week she would be gone and everything will go back to normal. It will be just he and Bae as it always was.

He had this inner monologue over and over, trying to reassure himself. He was being ridiculous, concerning himself over nothing.

Feeling a little better, Anthony dragged his attention back to his work. The store was pretty much empty, with just a few habitués wandering idly, picking books at random and reading a few pages. He couldn't look at this store without being invaded by a sense of pride. This was his dream, this place. When he was growing up, back in Scotland, money was always tight. Books were a luxury his parents couldn't afford. Sometimes even food was something they couldn't afford. The only thing he had to help him go on was his imagination. He used to invent stories, using bits and pieces of the few books he read, tying them together and coming up with some brand new story. His mother used to say he was a spinner of tales. When he was 18, his parents passed away in an accident. He was all alone, he didn't have that much friends, so he decided to sell everything, the house and the furniture and buy a ticket to America. It was the best and the worst decision of his life. The worst, because of everything that happened to him, that turned him into the man he his now, lonely and unwilling to open himself. The better because, if he'd never come, he would neither have this place nor his son. And that he would never regret.

Lost in thought, yet again, while staring blankly at the inventory he was supposed to be checking, Anthony failed to notice the pair that entered The Golden Scroll.

….

Mary and Belle were in a great mood. They walked all over town, entering randomly at stores to do some shopping. After, they went to check on the cake, which was perfect and the dress, which was nearly done. Everything was going according to plan so Mary decided it was time to take Belle to the Scroll. The timing was perfect. Gold was alone, staring at some papers and completely oblivious to them.

At first, Belle was too focused on her surroundings to notice the man behind the counter. The Golden Scroll was a beautiful bookstore, all wooden floors and rich, earthy colors. To her right a door led to an adjacent room full of kid's books, for what Belle could see, and to her left… She felt as if her stomach dropped to her feet at the sight of Mr. Gold studying some papers at the counter. Although studying wasn't the right word if one took into account the way his brow as furrowed. And even though it was absurd, she still had to suppress the sudden urge to go to him and offer a hug, or perhaps a peck on the cheek. Just the thought was enough to make Belle blush .Of course, Mary missed nothing of her friend reaction. If she wasn't already sure, the sight of a blushing Belle staring at Gold would be enough to convince her. Now it was time to see if the sentiment was shared by both of them.

Harrumphing softly, Mary startled both Belle and Gold out of their reveries.

"Miss Blanchard, Miss French, what a… lovely surprise." Gold stuttered, his eyes flashing from one girl to the other.

"I hope we're not disturbing." Mary inquired, glancing at the papers he was studying. "We can come back later. I was only showing Belle around town."

"You're not disturbing whatsoever. I was just… doing some inventory." Mary noticed the way blushed slightly at his hesitance. Inventory. Right!

Visibly trying to regain some control, Gold asked pleasantly: "Can I help you ladies with anything? Perhaps find some book in particular you're looking for?

All Mary was looking for was to analyze his reaction around Belle so she decided to ask Gold a favor.

"Actually I was hoping you could give us a tour to your shop. You know, if you could spare the time."

"It will be my pleasure." Gold's mind was racing as was his heartbeat. The girl he had thought about all night and all day was now standing in front of him, looking even more beautiful than he remembered. All those hours convincing himself that all that he was feeling was only in his head was a waste of time. Now, looking at her, he knew he never felt like this for anyone. He never felt like this, period. He always thought that love, as it was described in books was just a beautiful myth. After all, he had been in love. He married his ex-wife because he was in love with her. At least he thought he was. But now, he wasn't so sure. He wasn't sure at all. Maybe he has been wrong, and with a sense of apprehension, he started to question if the books were right. This could change everything. No! This changes nothing. Even if this was different, this love, he was pretty sure the pain will be the same.

Belle didn't know what to do or what to think. When Mary suggested that they should visit the bookstore she never expected to find that Mr. Gold owns it. Not in a million years. Just to think that there is a big chance that they shared such a huge passion in her life seemed unreal. It certainly didn't make matters easier to her. It would be simpler to be able to tell herself: 'Well, even though I do like him, is not as if we had anything in common.'

Mr. Gold was now standing by them, smiling gently and urging them to follow him to the other room. Belle was aware that he was talking, perhaps explaining something about the store, but she was too far gone to capture the meaning of his words. All she could perceive was the cadence of his accent and the mesmerizing, spicy scent of his aftershave. On closer look, she realized that his limp was barely noticeable, at least not pronounced enough to demand the use of a cane. Not that she was complaining. The cane only added to his sense of style. Great! I have a cane kink and I'm only realizing it now. She blushed, imagining all the good, dirty uses he could put that cane to.

"Are you alright sweetie? You seem a bit flushed" Mary's tone was concerned but, the truth of the matter was, she was enjoying this way too much.

Of course that only made Belle blush deepened. "I'm fine baby." Facing Mr. Gold she added. "This place is amazing." Dragging herself back to the here and now, Belle admire the room they we're in. It really was amazing. Tall windows facing a small garden in the back, shelves covered with books of fairytales and mythology, a handful of tables, scattered, perfect allow o 4 or 5 kids to gather around. It was an uncommon sight, one to be expected, perhaps, on a library, but Belle was familiar enough with Storybrook to know that the library was closed.

Mr. Gold answered, as if he could see her confusion. "The kids needed a place to come and study, so I decided to transform this room into a study room. My boy and his friends spend a lot of time in here."

And, as if talking of him summoned him, Bae appeared by the door, grinning at his father.

"Talking about me? Something good I hope." He was tall, perhaps 16 or 17, with dark brown hair and an easy smile.

"Hardly." Anthony answered, with mock severity. "So you decided to make an appearance. I'm surprised."

"Why, Papa, I'm wounded by your words. I strive to be a perfect son."

"Strive and fail, I'm afraid." Anthony's eyes were alight with mirth. It was obvious he loved his son. It was also obvious that he loved to tease him.

"Well, since no one is going to introduce me, I supposed I have to do the honors." He said, facing Belle and beaming." I'm Bailey, but everyone calls me Bae."

Belle found herself smiling at the boy exuberance, so unlike his father. "I´m Belle. It's very nice to meet you Bae." Facing Mary, for the first time since he joined them he said, flashing a smile at her: "Hey Miss Blanchard."

"We're Grace and Henry? I can't recall not seeing you guys together. Thick as thieves since childhood." Grace, Jonathan's daughter, and Henry, Regina's and Emma's son, we're Bae's best friends. They we're always hanging around together, as close as brothers as they could be. They we're also planning to apply to the same college when they graduate, next year.

"They went on ahead to pick some burgers at Granny's." Turning to his father he said: "Is it okay if they crash today at our place?

"I should have seen that coming." Anthony said with a sigh: "Of course they can."

Belle caught herself smiling at the playful banter between them. It was adorable, but did nothing to ease her peace of mind. Every minute around this man only show her more qualities about him. Maybe it was time to admit that there was a great chance she will develop a crush on him. It didn't have to be such a bad thing. Flirt a little, give her ego a boost. Just as long as she keeps things simple, it can be healthy and even fun. The trick was not falling in love. After all, she wasn't looking for love.

With that in mind she said. "You're shop is wonderful. I love books."

He smiled at her, a kind of shy, boyish grin that left her feeling breathless and sent her heart racing. Oblivious to all but him, Belle failed to notice the glanced exchanged by Mary and Bae. They were both sensing the same thing. And, unless Mary was grossly mistaken, Bae was in favor. This was Mary biggest fear, that Bae might oppose. He lived alone with his father for all his life and there was a big chance that he would not want some woman to come between them. But apparently she wouldn't have to worry by that, not if his wicked smile was something to account for. In fact, Bae was the perfect accomplice. He knew his father better than anyone; he was the perfect person to notice the small changes.

She will need to talk to him, without his father or Belle around. But this was not the time or the place. Besides, it was getting late and she needed to get ready to her date with James.

"Oh, look at the time. Sweetheart I'm sorry but I got to get going if I want to meet James." She shot an apologetic look at Belle.

"I guess we lost track of time." Belle wanted to stay a little while longer to see the rest of the store. A voice in her mind was asking if that was that only reason she wanted to stay. Of course it is. Remember? I'm keeping things simple.

"Perhaps…" Mr. Gold hesitated, already sorry he has spoken up. Clearing his throat he pushed on. "Perhaps you can visit tomorrow, to finish the tour. If you want." He sounded like a bloody fool.

"I would like that." The words were coming out Belle's mouth before she realized it. She felt a little embarrassed at the touch of eagerness in her voice.

With a final wave and wishes of a pleasant evening, father and son stood watching the two girls leave. Anthony was aware of the strange look his boy was giving him so he decided to ask and be done with it. Somehow he had a feeling he will not enjoy what he was about to hear.

"What? Have I grown horns or perhaps another head?"

"Nothing, nothing." Smiling to himself he went on. "Pretty girl, that friend of Miss Blanchard. Belle isn't it?"

"Miss French, for the likes of you." But he conceded. "She has a very suiting name, indeed."

"And she likes books. Seems like you might have things in common." This was going to be hilarious.

"It would appear so, yes." He answered without thinking. Feeling suspicious he added. "What exactly are you implying, boy?"

"That she is a beautiful, smart, single woman who seems to have an interest in you?"

"How do you now she is single?" Again speaking before thinking.

"I'm pretty sure she wasn't wearing any ring."

"That means nothing. Wait, am I really having this conversation. Can I possibly be getting advices from my teenage son about my love life?"

"Actually is lack thereof." Anthony's gaze could've frozen hell. Guess it's better to drop the subject while I'm still ahead.

"Fine, fine. I'm leaving. Don't worry about dinner. We're going to order some pizzas." Bae said and dashed out.

Anthony stood there, dumbstruck. Was really that obvious?

That boy was too smart for his own good. And for mine.

…...

Mary and Belle went their separate ways, Mary to meet James and Belle to Granny's. This couple of days has been exhausting but she was not tired. She was too riled up. So she was more than happy to join Archie Hopper, Granny and Ruby who were gathered around the counter.

She asked for something to eat and soon found herself deep in thought, lulled by the sound of her friend conversation. Her attention was brought back to the present when she heard someone saying Mr. Gold name.

"It will be hard on the man, being away from his son." Granny was saying. "He loves that boy as is if he was his own."

"He is his son. Just not biologically speaking." Ruby said. She always admired the love between those two. They say that blood is thicker than water. Anthony and Bailey Gold showed her that love isthicker than blood.

"Bae is not Mr. Gold biologic son?" Belle stammered.

"No. No one knows the exact details but one day his wife was gone and, perhaps a year or so later he took a trip and returned with Bailey. The baby was just a few months old." Granny explained. "No one had the heart to ask for any details and, even if someone did, he would not have answered".

"And Bae knows?"

"Of course he does." This time it was the good doctor that answered her. "I even talked to him a couple of time, to see if he needed some help to cope but the boy is just fine. Mr. Gold did a wonderful job."

The conversation steered to other subjects but Belle was only half listening. As soon as she could excuse herself she went upstairs, took a shower and crawled underneath the sheets. Her mind was racing. There was a story, most likely a sad one, in Mr. Gold's – Anthony's – life. Maybe that was why he looked so lost at times. She was all too aware of the pain a broken heart could inflict.