Chapter 4

Any idea who Simon and the dark stranger are? More hints in this chapter. :)

"Why does he want to kill you?" Regina demanded, "And who is he?"

The teenager took a deep breath and stuck his hands in the pockets of his hoodie. "He's my uncle and he wants to kill me because I have something he wants."

"And what might that be?" Gold asked, appearing behind Regina.

The teen shrugged. "My kingdom."

Regina inhaled sharply. "Simon, I think maybe we should discuss this further in private." The boy agreed and Regina turned to Henry. "Call Emma and tell her to meet us at our house when she can. Warn her that the uncle may be on his way to the station." Turning back to the teen, she said, "We're going to look after you, kid. Do you have anywhere to stay?"

Simon shook his head. "No ma'am. I just got here last night."

"Well, you are welcome to stay with me for now. You look like you could use a hot bath and a good night's sleep." Regina was obviously in "Mom Mode."

"Thank you. I've kinda been on the run for awhile now." Simon ruffled his auburn hair and grinned.

Regina smiled at him. "It's ok. Grab your stuff and we'll get going." She turned to Gold. "I'd prefer you and Archie joined us if you will. We need to find out where this kid is from and how he got here. He may need to talk to Archie depending on what he's been through. Emma will no doubt inform her parents and that's good. We need the whole team on this one."

Gold smirked. "So we're a "team" now, Dearie?" She rewarded him with an annoyed glare so he pressed on. "Do I need to purchase a van? If I can jinx Pongo to start talking, we'd be all set."

Regina sighed and stalked off, leaving Gold to his own amusement. "You're evil," Belle teased.

He put his arm around her and winked. "I know, Dearie."

Belle rolled her eyes and turned to retrieve her handbag. "So... I guess I'll go with Ruby..."

Gold sensed the hidden question in her words. "You should come, and Ruby too if she wants. You're my wife now and you have done as much for this town as anyone. I'd have you by my side in all things, if it pleases you. I'm stronger with you."

Belle looked as if she was about to cry, and Archie gave Gold an approving nod. "Oh, Rumple." Gold barely had time to breathe before Belle squished him with a big hug. "I will always fight for you and with you."

Ruby was smiling, nudging Archie with her arm. He smiled back. "Well, shall we?" Gold asked. "Wouldn't want to keep Her Majesty waiting." Ruby laughed and Belle smacked Gold with her purse before they headed for their cars.