Disclaimer: I do not own anything from Once Upon a Time
Gold awoke to the sound of her scream. She was having another nightmare. Even though they were less frequent, she still had them, and the always leave her screaming in fear.
"Sshh... It's okay love, you're okay" Gold whispered holding her in his arms, trying to calm her down. "It was just a nightmare. You're with me now, nothing can hurt you here."
She was still shaking, but her breathing had steadied and he could feel her muscles begging to relax.
"Thank you," she sighed into his chest. Gold was still holding her. Stroking her hair and kissing her forehead.
"The dreams are just... They just seem so real"
"I know dear, I know," Gold replied, slowly easing her out of his embrace so he could see her face. "Do you think you'll be able to fall back asleep?"
"I don't think so" Belle responded, rubbing her eyes as she brought herself to a sitting position. "Could we go down stairs and have some tea."
"Of course we can dear. And how about once were done, you can read on the couch while I get breakfast ready for the both of us."
"That sounds wonderful." Belle said, her voice soft.
So the two got up and headed down stairs and into the kitchen where they both drank a steaming mug of peppermint tea.
Finishing off the last of her drink, Belle stood up from the table and walked over to the book shelf that sat against the living room wall. Browsing the seemingly endless amount of books (since arriving at Gold's house, Belle made sure that the book shelf was well stalked with all her favorites) Belle ended up choosing a well-read copy of Pride and Prejudice.
She curled up on the couch, wrapped herself in a cozy blanket, and began to read.
Belle didn't know how long she had been reading for, but after what had felt like no time at all, Gold was at her side telling her that breakfast was ready.
Belle was starting to feel the strain of the early morning weigh her down, but with a yawn, she got up from the couch and joined Gold at the kitchen table where two plate of pancakes sat, waiting to be devoured.
"Thank you" Belle mumbled, pouring maple syrup over her pancakes.
"It was my pleasure dear. After all, pancakes are my favorites"
"Not just for the food," Belle replied with a smile. "But for everything. For comforting me every time I have nightmare. Just knowing that it's you who is holding me when I wake up screaming, brings me comfort. I felt safe with you Rumplestiltskin. I love you."
"Oh Belle. Nothing means more to me than your happiness. I always want you to feel comfortable and safe. No matter what. I love you too dear. And I always will." Gold reached for Belle's hand across the table and held it in his own.
"Now, how about you go read some more of your book while I clean up."
"Are you sure you don't need help with anything?" Asked Belle, a concerned look on her face.
"I'm sure. Now off you go." Gold gave her a kiss before gesturing for her to leave the kitchen. Reluctantly, Belle entered the living room. Returning to her place on the couch and continuing her book from where she left off.
Before she knew it she was fast asleep. Tired from her early morning.
Walking into the room Gold notices her peacefully sleeping. He pulled the blanket she had draped over her legs up so that it covered her arms, and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead.
"Goodnight love," he whispered, as he crept upstairs to get ready for his day.