Summary: Sometimes you find love when and where you least expected.

Rating: PG 13

Author notes: As I said before, my native language is NOT English, and my skills are sketchy at best. Typos, misspelling, verb tenses all wrong... you'll probably stumble across all of the above. Please, bear with me. I'm trying my best. The flow of the story isn't exactly what I'd hoped it to be but my vocabulary only stretches so far.

This is AU. You will realize (if you stick to the story long enough) that my Gold is more like Baby!Rum than DarkOne!Rum.

That being said, forgive me for such a long note and I sincerely, truly hope you'll enjoy it.

DISCLAIMER: I OWN NOTHING

Belle woke up feeling rather happy. Yesterday was one of those amazing, unforgettable days. The kind of day when everything falls into place and life take this unexpected turn for the better. When she thinks of all the progress she has done in just one short day, she has to repress the urge to pinch herself. It feels very much like a dream, a wondrous, almost unbelievable dream. Mary called last night after diner and she was so excited about all that happened that she just started to laugh. She laughed and laughed and then she started to laugh and cry, saying over and over again the she was so happy, so, so happy. Mary was halfway through the door before Belle controlled herself enough to explain: she was writing again and everything was finally alright in God's green land. Then it was Mary's time to cry. By the time she hung up, still wiping away the last tears, she was feeling completely spent, both emotionally and fiscally. Who would have thought that this amount of happiness could be so exhausting? She just crawl into bed and was asleep even before her head hit the pillow.

These last couples of days have been so much more than she ever expected. She was only hoping to spent some time with her friends, be away from Chicago for a while and catch up with her reading or do some shopping. Instead she was having the time of her life: having fun with old friends, making new ones, getting her life back on track and, she could admit it to herself at least, falling in love. She knew it was not going to happen but dreaming was also nice, pretending that they could became her family.

Sighing Belle decided to focus on the task at hand. She was already running late and she still needed to put on her bikini, pick up a nice summer dress, pack a bag with all the essential articles and then run down stairs to meet Ruby and Archie. She was giving them a lift in her beautiful car, Emma and Jonathan were taking Henry and Grace and Mary and James would take Bae. She wasn't sure if Anthony was going to show up. She was hoping that he would and not because she was dying to see him in a swimming suit, at least not only because of that. She wanted to thank him and talk to him and be with him. It was of no use to hold on to this keeping things fun and easy .If she was going to leave in three days, she was planning to take with her a ton of good memories to keep her warm at night. After all, it was not as if she was the first to ever suffer from unrequited love.

…...

Anthony still couldn't believe he was actually going to do this. Close the store in a working day was strictly against his work ethic but how exactly was he supposed to deny his boy's wish to go to the lake? And he did a pretty valid point: they had to enjoy themselves while Bae was still here, make every moment and every day count. Still he decided to show up a little later, do some work first to ease his guilty conscious. He would never admit, not even under torture, that the reason he was delaying was because he was nervous. He refused to use the word 'scared'. The truth was he was falling in love with Belle and what he was feeling was unlike anything he had ever felt.

For the last 15 years or so he has done his level best to forget all that had happened between him and his ex-wife. He met her here, in the States, just a couple of years after he arrived from Scotland. He had landed a job in a bookstore, a tiny dark hole full of dust and filled with second hand books, pilled helter-skelter in every available surface. Floor included. The owner was an old man named Peter whose great obsession was books. And obsession was the correct term. He usually forget to eat and if Anthony wasn't there to send him home he would probably end up spending the night at the shop, engrossed in some book. Peter's wife tried for a time to achieve a place in his heart but there simply was no room left for her. Books were all his heart desired so eventually she grew tired of trying.

Vera, his ex, used to go to the store, to browse through the shelves while waiting for some friends. Anthony thought she was pretty enough, perhaps a bit cold, usually a bit shallow. She never paid him much attention, that was, until Peter died. His wife wanted to get rid of the books, so she offered them to Anthony. He tried to talk her out of it, Peter's collection was quite valuable, filled with antiques that were worth a lot of money, but she was adamant. She despised them. So Anthony found himself quite suddenly in the possession of a small fortune, enough for him to start his own business. When Vera found out that he was now a rich man her behavior towards him changed. She acted as if she was in love with him, she drank his every word and seemed as she couldn't have enough of him. Of course now the reason for such a change was extremely obvious, but back then, when he was so young and so love-starved, she was his every dream come true. He showered her with gifts, he worked like a slave to be worthy of her, her devoted his life to her. And for a while thing were just perfect. But somewhere along the way she began to change. She grew distant, aggressive. She criticized everything he did or said, every little thing was reason enough to star an argument. He spent countless sleepless nights raking his brain, trying to figure out how to make things better, how to make things work again. But it was like trying to stop the sun from setting in the west, an exercise in futility. Then one day, after a huge fight when she told him that he was 'a pathetic excuse for a man', he left for work and when he returned home she was gone. As well as all the money and jewels that they kept in the house and all the money in the joint account. She left a letter, blaming him for all that happened, saying that 'if only he had filled for a divorce she wouldn't have the need to resort to this but he was just too much of a coward'. She left him penniless and heartbroken. He had to sell his books, all his personal collection and it felt like losing a piece of his soul. Those books were like friends, family even, never judging, always there. That was perhaps the thing that made him hate her the most. (That and abandoning Bae. How can someone do such a thing?) For days he only felt numb. He went to work, he paid his bills, he barely ate… but that was because he barely had enough money to. But if he was going to truly be honest with himself he must admit that he actually never loved her. Not really. What he loved was the notion of being loved, but she, well… she only loved his money.

The lesson he took from all this was that women can't be trusted, not ever. And although the knowledge that there was no real love joining them made thing a little easier, the break of trust, the betrayal, knowing that all those time she said 'I love you' was but a lie, made a hole in his heart. Once the trust is lost it is very difficult to win it back and Vera managed not only to break his trust in her but in himself as well, in his own feelings. It was as if he couldn't trust in anyone, anymore and that was the scar that he carried to this day.

But now, since Belle, all that certainty was flying off the window, what he was now feeling was simply insane. It seems that his heart just doesn't play fair.

…..

Bae was having a great time. When Mary told him that he was riding with her and James to the lake he knew Mary wanted to use this time to talk with him, refine their plan. Of course it was impossible to keep things from James, seeing that he was just a couple of feet away. Bae and Mary knew that if their plan was supposed to work they would need every scrap of help they could find. And James was completely on board. He knew Gold better than anyone in Storybrook, except from Bae. He was the closest thing to a friend that Gold had. Nothing too exuberant, mind. Gold was a low profile kind of guy, but still. And he knew Belle since college and he must admit, thinking things trough, Belle French and Anthony Gold were a match. And from what Bae and Mary told him, they were into each other. So the trick was making them see it in the few days left before the wedding. Today was this trip to the lake and tomorrow, they were already planning to throw a dinner, just with the closest friend. Of course Belle and Anthony were invited. The bottom line was, in the end of the day, it was really all up to them. So, since there was nothing more than can be done it was time to sit back and enjoy. After all the point of this whole trip was to have a wonderful time and to enjoy themselves, despite their secret agenda. And they were almost to the lake.

They took a very narrow road, unmarked, that led them deep into the woods. For about 2 miles all there was too see was tall, towering trees, and nothing more. Then, all of the sudden, the road led into a clearing, allowing the first good look on the lake itself. The water reflected the sun and a soft wind send ripples across the surface. Forrest surrounded it except for the small clearing they were now entering. There was no one there besides them; this place was maintained as wild as it ever was. The only sign of human life was a small, very old looking row boat and a tiny log cabinet partially hidden by trees standing in the other side of the clearing. They parked the cars in the shade and started to unload them, tackling the chores with a kind of efficiency of movement that spoke of…. Jonathan, Archie and James were already assembling the tent, while the kids gather fallen twigs and branches, pilling them neatly and arranging everything to start a bonfire. Belle was at a loss of what to do so instead she moved to the shore and dip her hand in the water, taking a deep, soothing breath. This place was even more amazing that she'd imagine. When one thought about the Maine lakes she always pictured some huge, almost sea-like thing, filled with motor boats and noisy people, coffee-shops and restaurants and ice-cream stands. Something nice, in its own way, but not really her thing. But this was heavenly. She could almost see herself coming her just to sit in the shade of some tree with a book and bask on the silence, on the sense of peace that this place exuded.

"What's on your mind sweetie?" Mary asked.

"Just thinking that, if I lived here, I would come to this place all the time. This is so beautiful honey."

"Then why don't you?

"Why don't I what? Belle answered, puzzled.

"Live her. Move here."

Belle sighed, unsure of how to answer. Her eyes traveled to Bae, laughing out loud at something Grace said. "I don't know. I guess I would need a very good reason not to leave."

…..

It was just after 2pm. Anthony delayed as much as was possible but it was after lunch and he promised Bae to spend the afternoon with them. So he drove the 15 miles or so to the lake all the while trying to prepare himself to the very real chance of seeing Belle in a bikini. His mouth went dry at the thought alone. He brutally repressed that mental image. The last thing he needed right now was to crash his car into a tree due to extreme arousal.

One last turn on the narrow path and he arrived. He immediately noticed the laughing group playing volleyball, forming a circle. It seems that all the girls were there as well as the kids. And they were all in their swimsuits, just as he feared. Try as he might his gaze wandered, searching for the blue eye beauty. It was an addiction of sorts. He was more than aware of the dangers but was helpless to deny his heart desire. Belle was even more exquisitely beautiful than he though. Despite being quite short she was perfectly proportioned, all lush curves and creamy skin. He took advantage of the relative protection of the car to just look at her, drink her in. Shaking his head, Anthony exited his car releasing a breath he wasn't aware he was holding. He was playing with fire and was likely to get burnt. In a way it was quite appropriate. He already burn for her.

Waving at the players who somehow managed to toss the ball right into the lake and were debating which was going to be the unlucky one to fetch it (Henry draw the shortest straw this time ), Anthony joined Archie, James and Jonathan who were entertaining themselves with some friendly, wager free game of poker. They fall into an easy camaraderie, talking about nothing of importance, making some very bad attempts at bluffing and, at times, teasing their wives over some particularly bad move. It was impossible to miss the love shinning in Archie's, James's and Jonathan's eyes when they look at them. He felt, for what felt like the thousandth time since he met Belle, doubt creeping in. They made love seem so easy, so clear. He kept stealing glances at Belle, beautiful, with her hair wild from the wind and her cheeks blushed from all the running and he felt his heart squeeze painfully in his chest. He loves her, he might as well admit it to himself, but he was not brave enough to act on his feelings. And that thought was all it took to make the day seem a little less bright.

…..

Belle was the first to notice the arrival of the black car. She knew, right then, that it was his car. It suited him, dark and imposing, intimidating even. But the car, as well as the suits and the cane, were all but a façade, an armor he felt like he needed to wear. That was why it was so surprising seeing him as he was today, unshaved, wearing a white shirt with the top buttons undone and jeans. She was so caught up that she missed completely when Mary tossed the ball in her direction and managed, somehow, to throw it right in to the lake. Of course everybody laughed, she included, but Mary shot a knowing smile in her direction that she found extremely un-reassuring. Was it so obvious?

They played for a little while longer, shouting and laughing the whole time. Belle felt young for the first time in oh so many years, happy and carefree. Every once and awhile she glanced at the guys playing poker, and every single time Anthony and looking at her, a small smile paying in his lips. She started to feel hot, and it had nothing to do with the game's exertions. She needed to get away before she did something stupid like pouncing on him in front of all her friends and have her wicked way with him. It was hard to repress the urge to laugh at the mental image of Anthony running for the hills trying to escape her. Well, on second thought, it wasn't really that funny. It was more depressing really.

Grabbing the volley ball and ignoring the protest of the kids she said:

"Guys, I'm exhausted." And it wasn't even a lie. "You go ahead and continue to play. I'm taking the row boat for a spin."

"Can I come with?" Bae interjected. "I can row and you can enjoy the ride." Bae noticed how distracted Belle became since his dad arrived so if she was planning for an escape, having him there as a constant reminder was probably the best way to keep her mind on his father.

Eager as she was to get away, Belle failed to notice the looked that passed between Bae and Mary. Emma and Ruby however saw the whole thing and demanded explanations and Mary was more than happy to provide them. The wedding was upon them and every scrap of help was welcome. As they watched Bae and Belle climb into the boat, May gather the other girls and begun:

"So here's the deal. Last Monday, when Belle arrived, I noticed...'

…

How Anthony managed to keep an eye on Belle's every move and still won two out of three matches he didn't know. Apparently his multitasking skills were in very good shape. He saw when Belle left with Bae to take the little, old, and, at least as far as he could tell unreliable row boat, for a ride. Bae was an excellent swimmer; he wasn't at all concerned, but Belle… What if she couldn't swim? What if something happened to her? Without really noticing he inched forward in the bench until he was sitting on the very edge, body poised ready to jump at the first sign of distress, muscles tense. All seemed well; they appeared to be quietly talking, smiling as if sharing some secret joke. It was at moments like these that his mind snuck up on him, making him believe that things could be this prefect, forever. He could almost picture them sharing this happiness, together as a family. He never wanted anything more.

A voice woke him from his daydream, Mary was calling Belle's attention to something. Then, all happened at the same time: Belle half rose to look behind her shoulder to Mary and the boat dipped under her weight in the most alarming way; Bae tried to put pressure on the opposite side, to balance the center of gravity; Not noticing she rose to her feet, releasing the pressure on her side, causing the boat to dip on the other side. For a split second she stood there, waving her arms as if she were a windmill, trying to stay on board, but to no avail. With a shriek she splashed into the lake. Anthony leaped from his seat without even noticing, a jolt of pain running through his leg as he landed all his weight on it. Fear was pooling in the pit of his stomach, he never felt so useless. What if she dies? Dread was rushing through his veins, nobody was moving to help Belle, and he felt like howling. It took him a full second to really sense the mood of the others: no one was afraid; in fact they were smiling, laughing even. Belle reemerged, looking cold and with such an affronted expression that Anthony just lost it: throwing his head back he released a booming, full-bodied laugh. Vaguely he realized that this was a reaction to the fear, but he couldn't care less. Belle was ok, she was fine really, and the situation was funny, very funny indeed.

…

Belle first sensation was cold. How would have thought that the water would be so damn cold? As she swam to the surface she was greeted by laughter. They were laughing at her! She was so mad…. Until she heard Anthony laugh. It was the first time she ever heard him laugh, really laugh. It was almost worth to plunge into the lake if this was the reaction she got. Unable to contained herself, Belle joined them, laughing and splashing water at Bae. But splashing was not enough. With two quick strokes she reached the boat and successfully managed to make Bae fall overboard as well. By then she was laughing so hard, she could hardly breathe. Suddenly and idea came to her mind. It really was unfair to be wet to the bones and providing all the entertainment. Maybe a little payback was at order. And she knew exactly how was going to pay the bill.

…..

Anthony considered himself the kind of guy who was always one step ahead of things. It was very difficult to surprise him or catch him off guard. That's why, when Belle dump on his head a bucket full of cold, chilling, lake water, he almost jump off of his skin. At least he managed not to scream like a little girl. Thank God for the small favors!

"What exactly do you think you're doing Miss French?" He tried to sound menacing but wasn't entirely sure if he succeeded judging by the way she was looking at him.

"Since I've already dump half the lake on you, I think it is ok for you to call me Belle." She said, flashing that warm, open, beautiful smile at him, the smiled he grown to love. It was impossible not to smile back.

"Ok, Belle, but I must say you are most unfair to an old man. It is not as if I can chase you down and give you the…punishment… you deserve." His voice was barely above a whisper, a kind of purr that left Belle feeling quite breathless. A blush was rising from her chest, tainting her cheeks in the most becoming way. Anthony started to grow concerned. Maybe he was to forward and offended her. You and your big mouth. Only then he noticed the way she was looking at him, the strange glint in her eye. Suddenly he was all too aware of the way he looked, his hair a wild mane, his white shirt clinging to his torso, almost transparent from being wet. He felt her eyes travel up and down his body like a caress that sent shiver running through his body that had nothing to do with the fact that he was soaked.

"You're not old." Belle managed to say, after dragging her eyes off him. She tried to focus on his face but that didn't improve matters. The urge to run her fingers through his hair to see if it was really as soft as she though was almost impossible to deny. She was vaguely aware of her friends, just a few feet away, already packing to leave but she couldn't bring herself to worry. Not when her ears were full of his voice, her eyes full of his kind brown ones, her senses overwhelmed by everything that was his, from the spiced scent of his aftershave to the way his hands wouldn't stop moving, whether he was talking or listening. She was never more in tune with another human being. She could almost hear his heart beating, a wild gallop that surely matched the tempo of her own heart.

"Whenever you guys are ready to lend a hand please do." James shouted, breaking the trance in which Belle and Anthony had fallen. Smiling shyly they went their separate ways, busying themselves with the packing, trying to pretend that nothing had happened. Mary, Emma, Ruby, Henry, Grace and Bae, who were watching and rooting for the two almost love-birds, look ready to scream of frustration. They were so close. And now they had only two days to make this happened.

Mary was an optimistic but even she was founding theirs odds a bit disheartening. Sighing she joined the others. There was nothing more to be done today except go home and hope that tomorrow work out better.