XII
Epilogue
Belle set her book down to rest upon her lap as her husband cursed. She was settled upon the settee in the Great Hall next to his spinning wheel, Rumpelstiltskin at his favorite pastime as they could be found every afternoon. She peeked at him from beneath her lashes and grimaced at the tangled mess in his hands. "Spinning not going as you'd hoped, darling?" she asked pleasantly.
His gaze was more than a little troubled as he glanced up at her. "What gave it away?" he snarked. No matter how hard he tried lately, the soothing comfort of his wheel eluded him. Belle was ten days overdue and there wasn't enough goblin-made fire whiskey in the entirety of the Enchanted Forest to calm his battered nerves.
"Rumpel, it's fine. The book said I might go past my time. Predicting when the baby will arrive is not an exact science."
"That quack Whale! I still can't believe you sought him out as your obstetrician," he snorted. Not after the part he'd playing in helping Regina keep Belle hostage in that basement asylum.
"It's not as if I had much of a choice … and he did fine delivering both Neal and Robyn."
Rumpelstiltskin sighed wearily and pinched the bridge of his nose.
He was tired of waiting. He'd sent Jefferson through the portal to the land without magic so many times, the hatter was refusing to answer his summons. It had been necessary, however. The more the months seemed to fly by, the more Belle's worries seemed to plague him. Did he want the wee one to suffer from diaper rash caused by cloth nappies? So disposable hypo-allergenic diapers and a case of baby powder and ointment went on the list. What if something happened and Belle wasn't able to breast feed? Jefferson came back with a case of every different kind of formula he could find. Prenatal vitamins, feminine products she'd need after the birth, clothes for their daughter … and yes, even some if they should have a son – why wouldn't she listen to him? Blankets, a bouncer, a swing … anything the little dearie would need.
He would definitely need to reward his friend for his faithful service. Perhaps a cottage near the lake? He had no end of land atop the mountain. Why not share it with his friend? Sometimes Rumpelstiltskin thought he'd go mad without him, and Grace was such a wonderful companion for his beloved Belle.
He was snapped out of his reverie as Belle set her book on the coffee table and moved to get up. He rose so fast from his stool, the thing went flying back into the wall. "What do you need? More tea? A snack?"
Belle smiled indulgently up at him as his arm went about her waist. "I just wanted to get up and stretch my legs, darling. And visit the water closet … again," she mumbled in irritation. "I swear I should just set up camp in there."
Rumpelstiltskin's face screwed up in anguish. "This can't go on! Something's wrong!"
"Rumpel –"
"No, Belle … that midwife in the village is an idiot. You need to see a real doctor," he growled, working himself up into a fine panic as his mind whirled with possibilities of what could be wrong.
Belle rolled her eyes and took advantage of his distraction to disappear into the water closet off the main hall. "And what would you suggest? The Enchanted Forest is rather lacking in doctors," she called through the closed door. "Please, love, just calm down. Everything is fine." Her brows drew together when he didn't answer. "Rumpel, did you hear me? Rumpel?"
When she opened the door, he was standing there with the apprentice's wand in one hand and her cloak in the other. Her brows shot up into her hairline as he wrapped it around her and fastened the clasp. "We're going to see Dr. Brian," he stated flatly. She could feel the tension coiling through him.
"Rumpelstiltskin, Jefferson and Grace will be here any minute to have dinner with us. We can't just go skipping out on them. And I doubt one of your former clients will be any better at giving me a checkup than Mrs. Woodley. She's quite a capable midwife … if you'd just give her a chance," she scolded, throwing off her cloak and marching indignantly towards the Great Hall.
He shook his head as he followed her. "No, dearest. Dr. Brian isn't one of my former clients. He's the Chief of Staff at Storybrooke Memorial and head of obstetrics." Which is who she should have seen about prenatal care instead of Dr. Frankenstein.
Belle gaped at him. "You want to go to back to Storybrooke … now? Rumpel, no. I'm … we're … happy here. We've worked so hard for our happy ending. Why would you want to go back?"
Rumpelstiltskin dropped to his knees before her, where she'd resumed her seat on the settee, and clasped her hands in his. He hated to see the crestfallen expression on her face, but there was no help for it. "Sweetheart, we wouldn't be staying. It would put my mind at ease if we went in for a check-up. Nothing more. We would come right back, and I'd be patient … I promise."
Belle frowned, thinking of all they'd left behind. Despite her anger in the beginning of being dragged from Storybrooke, she didn't regret it. She and her husband had found peace, happiness and a soul-deep joy in the Dark Castle, and she didn't want to put that in jeopardy. Yet, how could she deny him anything? It would put his fears to rest, and that was worth a bit of anxiety she supposed.
"You're going to Storybrooke?" Jefferson boomed behind them. They'd been so caught up in their discussion, neither of them had heard the hatter and his daughter arrive.
Rumpelstiltskin rose to his feet and looked down hopefully at his wife.
Belle sighed. "Yes, I suppose we are. Rumpel is worried about the baby and wants me to see a doctor."
Grace sat down beside Belle, her face alight with excitement. "Oh, Papa, might we accompany them? It's been ages since we were there, and what I wouldn't give for one of Granny's cheeseburgers!"
Belle grinned, feeling some of her worry dissipate. "It would only be fitting for our child's godfather to come along," she said, giving the hatter a pointed look.
The mage jumped on that statement like a dog with a bone. "Then you agree? We're really going?"
"If it will soothe you, then yes. Your emotions with their rapid up and down from panic to mild nervousness are making me queasy," Belle chuckled. "We'll be gone one day, so I really don't see the harm."
Jefferson groaned. In all the times he'd gone to the land without magic to procure items for the baby, he'd been able to avoid Storybrooke with its myriad problems. "This is a bad idea."
Grace arched a brow at her father. "Papa, we'll be traveling with two of the most powerful purveyors of light magic in the Enchanted Forest. We can't get a more reliable escort than that, now can we?"
"Hypocritical do-gooders, evil witches and a loathsome pirate," Jefferson grumbled. "What could possibly go wrong?"
*.*.*
"Oh," Belle gasped as she stepped through the portal, "this feels really odd." Though she could feel the magic coursing through her, so much a part of her now, it felt strangely different.
Rumpelstiltskin's hand gripped her elbow tightly, lending her support. "It will pass, sweetheart. Magic is different here."
Belle took a deep breath, willing herself to calm. She looked down at the rose-pink gown she wore and then over at her husband who'd already changed into a suit. "Well, this just won't do," she mumbled, passing a hand over herself, her fingertips alight with an icy blue light. When she'd finished, she nodded approvingly at the pale mint green sundress which matched her husband's tie perfectly. "That's better."
Rumpelstiltskin helped Grace with her own dress, transforming her long gown into a stylish pencil skirt and beige top. He knew Jefferson wouldn't appreciate a wardrobe change, and left him be.
"Auntie," Grace said, her fingers brushing lightly over Belle's back. "A good bit of your mark is on display. Do you think that's a good idea?"
Belle squared her shoulders, feeling a fire burning through her. "I don't care who sees it, darling. I'm proud to have Rumpel's mark on my back … just as he is to have mine. People who see it might not understand, but then I really don't see how they could. Ours is a special bond even rarer than true love."
Rumpelstiltskin took her hand in his, bringing it to his lips to brush a reverent kiss to her knuckles, love shining in the depths of his warm sable eyes. "You look lovely, my Belle."
Jefferson threw out his arm, gesturing them to precede him. "Alright, you lovebirds, let's get this show on the road."
Belle tucked her hand into the crook of her husband's arm and smiled. The portal had opened in the ballroom of the apprentice's mansion, and she couldn't help but remember the time she'd spent there with Rumpelstiltskin. The warmth and love he projected in that moment, assured her he was remembering as well. Their dance, the first time they'd made love as husband and wife, a leisurely picnic on the expansive grounds, a glass of wine and heartfelt promises made beneath the stars. Their difficulties afterwards were but a memory now, and she could look back and remember their happier times with fondness.
"You know it's a long walk to the hospital, right?" Jefferson prodded as they made their way to the front door. "You think that's going to be easy for Belle?"
The mage snorted. "As if I'd make my very pregnant wife walk into town. Do you not know me at all, Hatter?"
Belle chuckled as they stepped out onto the wide porch to find Rumpelstiltskin's Cadillac parked in the driveway. He settled her into the front seat and soon they were on their way. The town hadn't changed in the time they'd been gone, but she knew looks could be deceiving. She didn't care. She wanted the visit to the doctor out of the way with all haste, so they could return home.
They entered through the emergency room, figuring it would be the best place to receive prompt attention. The nurse behind the receiving desk squeaked with fright as she looked up from her files to stare into the menacing gaze of the former town monster. "M-Mr. G-Gold!"
"Hello, dearie," he drawled, his Dark One mask firmly in place. Though he could no longer claim that title, it was difficult to show these people his softer side. They would swoop in and take advantage without a moment's hesitation. "Call up and inform Dr. Brian my wife and I are on our way to see him, would you?"
The nurse paled. "I-I'm sorry, Mr. Gold, but Dr. Brian is out playing golf with Dr. Whale this morning. I -"
Jefferson rolled his eyes and leaned over the desk, snatching up the phone receiver and thrusting it at her. "Page him. And make sure you tell him exactly who's waiting here to see him." He looped his arm over his daughter's shoulder and steered her towards the elevator to take them upstairs to the fourth floor.
Brian's office was deserted, but it didn't take long for a frazzled looking nurse to come and let them in. "The doctor is on his way, Mr. Gold. If you'd like to wait … can I get you anything, sir? Coffee or tea?"
Belle politely declined. She was getting rather nervous over her upcoming check-up, and doubted she'd be able to hold anything down. Twenty minutes later, Brian burst through the door of the reception area, pale as a sheet and wearing the most ridiculous plaid golfing pants they'd ever seen. Jefferson, known for his flamboyant style wouldn't even be caught dead wearing something so hideous.
"Mr. Gold! I hadn't heard you were back in town," he stammered nervously.
"Well, here I am in the flesh, dearie," the former Dark One snarked.
"What can I do for you?"
"My wife is ten days past the due date Whale set for our child. I want you to give her a check-up," he explained in the simplest terms possible.
Grace flipped through a magazine while her father laid his head back against the wall and closed his eyes, both of them settling in to wait as the frazzled doctor barked orders at his nurse and led the Golds back to an exam room.
Rumpelstiltskin took a seat next to his wife while the nurse went through the motions of checking Belle's blood pressure and temperature. She was then sent off to produce a urine sample and change into a paper gown. The doctor did his best to remain calm and put the expectant father at ease.
"It's not uncommon for a woman – especially with this being her first child – to go past her due date. I'm sure everything is fine, and a few simple tests will be able to set both of your minds at ease. Has she had medical care … er … since you've moved?"
"She's been seeing a midwife, and she's on a decent regimen … diet, prenatal vitamins, exercise."
Brian wrote it all down on Belle's chart. He'd just made a final notation when Belle returned to the room and took a seat upon the exam table. "Rumpel?" she murmured softly, and he could see the fear building in her eyes. He was having a devil of a time coping with both his anxiety and hers as it flowed through their bond between them.
He rose from his seat and stepped over to her side, taking her hand. "It's alright, dearest. I won't leave you."
His touch soothed her, and she relaxed, turning her attention to the doctor. Brian preformed a quick exam, relieving their worries before he had the nurse wheel in the ultrasound machine. "Let's have a look, shall we? See how the little one is doing in there."
The lights were dimmed as the machine whirred to life. Rumpelstiltskin winced as Belle gripped his hand, her whole body flinching as the cool gel was squeezed onto her belly. "Well," the doctor said, "she's seems to be in a good position … no worries there."
"She?" Belle asked.
"Oh, yes, definitely a girl. Congratulations!"
Rumpelstiltskin's lips turned up into a smug smile. He'd known all along that wily god had just been toying with his wife, but he loved Belle too much to say I told you so. "Why is she delayed?"
"Mr. Gold, babies won't come until they're ready. Sometimes, complications prevent their prompt arrival and we're forced to perform a c-section. That isn't the case here. She's a good weight and length, the placenta is in good shape, Mrs. Gold's blood pressure, temp and blood sugar are all normal. Your daughter just hasn't made up her mind to meet the world yet."
"See, darling. Everything is fine," Belle cooed, squeezing his hand. "She's simply stubborn like her father."
The mage was so overwhelmed with relief he was forced to drop down into a chair. "Thank you, Brian."
The doctor hid his stunned expression by turning away to cut the power to the machine and flip the lights back on. "Of course, Mr. Gold. If Mrs. Gold goes longer … say another five to seven days, I'd like to see her again. We don't want the little one to cook too long."
Belle hopped off the table and retreated into the bathroom to change back into her clothes, leaving her husband to take care of the details.
"And if she does?"
"I would like to induce labor. It won't hurt either your wife or the baby."
Rumpelstiltskin scheduled another appointment. Belle wouldn't be happy about having to return to Storybrooke again, but he wasn't taking any chances. She emerged from the restroom, and linked her arm with his, letting him guide them back to the waiting room. He explained to Grace and Jefferson everything the doctor had told them, and the hatter was beyond excited.
"A girl! I'm going to have a goddaughter!" Jefferson squawked happily.
"Can we get that burger now?" Belle grinned at Grace. "I'm starving!"
*.*.*
Rumpelstiltskin's knuckles whitened as his hands tightened on the steering wheel. Jefferson and Grace piled out of the car, but Belle remained in her seat, a worried frown knitting her brow. He stared blankly out of the windshield at the walkway leading up to the diner. Gods, how he hated being back in this accursed town. Nothing good would come of their brief visit.
"Darling, what's wrong?" his wife asked, slipping her hand into his as she pulled it from the steering wheel. "We don't have to stay if you don't want to."
"No," he grumbled, shaking his head. "Grace wants a cheeseburger, and I'm not going to disappoint her because I'm reluctant to run into the citizens of Storybrooke. Nor will I remain in the car, hiding from them."
"I'll order extra pickles for you to make up for your pain, Rumpel," she purred against the shell of his ear as she scooted closer. "And a chocolate caramel sundae?"
His stomach rumbled as he looked over at her, a half-moon grin curling his lips. She shot him an impish smile and pressed a kiss to his lips. "I love you," he murmured. "As long as you're with me, I don't really care what anyone else might have to say."
"I love you, too."
She held tightly to his hand as they got out of the car and joined Jefferson and Grace at the door of the diner. The hatter frowned at his friend. "We can always get it to go, Rumpel." He sniffed imperiously, trying to put his friend at ease. "Take it down to the lake and have a picnic."
"I believe we have time enough to have one meal before we are due to return, Jefferson."
Grace shot Rumpelstiltskin a gamine-like grin. "I'm sure you won't have to smite anyone, Uncle," she snarked. Which was why the mage was smiling as the four of them walked into the diner.
It wasn't crowded as it wasn't quite time for the lunch rush. It didn't stop Granny from dropping the coffee cup she was filling for Leroy, sending it crashing to the floor. Conversations stopped, mouths gaped, and jaws dropped. Belle walked to their usual booth and ignored it all. Then she felt a sudden stab of unquiet in her husband as the back door of the diner slammed and he came face to face with his grandson.
Henry paused mid-step, his dark eyes widening in surprise before he closed the distance and threw his arms around his grandfather. "Grandpa! Where have you been? You just left without saying anything to anyone," he murmured in a little hurt voice.
The tension released from his gut as Rumpelstiltskin embraced the boy. "I'm sorry, lad. Belle and I had a great many things we needed to work out between us, and I thought it best not to waste any time."
Henry grinned broadly at his grandmother. "Wow! You look like you're about to pop, Gran … er … Belle." He leaned in to rub her belly gently. He looked up at her hopefully. "Are you guys staying?"
"No, Henry, I'm afraid not. We'll be returning home later," she said, maneuvering herself down into the booth.
"Hello, Henry …"
The boy's eyes took on a bit of a glazed look as he followed the sound of that melodic voice to the girl standing behind his grandfather. "Uh …"
"Close your mouth, lad," Rumpelstiltskin whispered helpfully.
"Don't tell me you don't remember me," Grace teased, her eyes sparkling.
"Paige?" he mumbled, his cheeks heating.
"Grace," the hatter growled, plopping down into the booth and scooting towards the window. Just what he needed … his daughter and her first case of puppy love finding one another again.
The girl arched a brow at her father, warning him to behave. "It's been a long time."
Henry was seconds away from drooling. "We should catch up. Would you let me treat you to lunch?"
"Yes," she replied, slipping her hand into the crook of his arm and letting him steer her towards a booth by the window. "I'd really like that."
Jefferson scowled darkly as he watched the two walk away. "He should be wanting to catch up with the two of you. You're his grandparents, after all." His usually warm grey eyes resembled gathering storm clouds as he looked at Belle. "Instead, he's fawning all over my daughter!" he hissed in a furious whisper, ever the indignant father of a teenage girl.
Belle giggled as her husband settled beside her in the booth. "Overprotective papa," she teased. "They were friends, Jeff. Let them catch up."
"That was more than catching up, my darling girl. My daughter doesn't look at boys like that. That look is reserved for her precious history books, and you know it."
Rumpelstiltskin was having trouble hiding a knowing grin. It faded quickly as the proprietor of the diner herself made her way over to their table to take their order. Her usual grim sneer was firmly in place when she stared at the town monster over the rim of her spectacles. "Gold," she fairly snarled. "Can't say I'm pleased to see you back in town. You've got a lot of nerve coming back here."
"Lovely to see you too, Granny," Belle intervened, reaching beneath the table to link her fingers with her husband's. "We'll have three cheeseburgers – extra pickles – an order of chili cheese fries, and three sweet teas."
"I want onion rings," Jefferson grumbled petulantly.
"And an order of onion rings for Jeff," she added.
"That's it?" she sneered, tapping her pencil against her order pad. "You just hie off to parts unknown without a word, leaving your henchmen in charge of your business for months? No one knows what you might've done to your poor pregnant wife who hadn't made it a secret she was divorcing you. And then you think you can just breeze back into town as if nothing happened?"
"Well, dearie … I don't see how my relationship with my wife, nor my business dealings are any concern of yours. You are in the business of serving customers. If our money is no good here, please just say so and we will go somewhere else," Rumpelstiltskin retorted as calmly as he could, ignoring the anger welling up inside him.
Jefferson smiled, showing nearly all of his teeth. "You must have a hard time making a living if you talk to all your customers this way."
The woman made a clucking sound of disgust and stalked off to the hatch to hang their order on the wheel.
Jefferson leaned back in his seat, his mouth screwed up into a sneer. "I just remembered why I hate this town so much. Bunch of hypocrites."
Rumpelstiltskin tensed. "And I fear it will only get worse."
Belle lifted her gaze to the door as the jingling bells above it sounded loudly. She squeezed her husband's hand in a show of support as Regina and Emma entered the diner and headed straight for them. The wee one shifted and writhed as her mother's stress level peaked. Not that Belle would tell her husband when he was already overwrought.
Regina's eyes blazed fury as Emma's widened. "So, it's true … you're back. You sneaky imp! Where the hell have you been?! The whole town nearly fell apart and you're gallivanting to parts unknown!"
Emma shot her a quelling glance and smiled at Belle. "Are you ok? Killian and I searched everywhere for you."
Rumpelstiltskin had a death grip on her hand, but outwardly he appeared calm. His anxiety was through the roof and she knew he was seconds away from poofing them out of there. Not because he feared anything the goody-goody duo could do to him, but rather that he didn't want to put her under any added stress. It had been hard enough leaving the sanctity of their castle to journey to Storybrooke to begin with.
"I'm fine, Emma," Belle replied. "Actually, I've never been happier."
The sorcerer gnashed his teeth. "We went home, Regina." He glanced down at his wife, a loving smile quirking his lips. "To save our marriage."
"You used the wand!"
"Of course, I did," he agreed, not having anything to hide. What did he care if the vein in her forehead ruptured because of an epic temper tantrum? "Belle and I had some issues to work through, and it wasn't likely we would have ever been able to do so had we remained in Storybrooke."
"What wand?" Emma asked in an aside. "The apprentice's wand?"
"You tricked me! You knew how desperate I was!" Regina snarled, ignoring Emma.
Rumpelstiltskin arched a brow. "We made a deal, dearie. The wand for Pandora's box. I did not deceive you. Tell me … were you able to rid yourself of your less than savory counterpart?"
Her dark eyes narrowed menacingly. "That's beside the point. You don't know the hell I had to put up with from everyone because I had no way to go after you."
Belle squirmed uncomfortably in her seat, a searing pain settling in her back. "Seriously? You wanted to come after me? Why?"
Jefferson snorted. "Oh, how entertaining their quarreling must have been for you. Must've been quite bored without the Dark One and his wife here to amuse you all. Or was it something else, Regina? You needed him, he wasn't here to yank your ass out of the fire, and –"
"Shut up, Jefferson! This doesn't concern you!"
Belle yanked on her husband's hand. "Darling, I'm not feeling well. Will you let me out please?"
Rumpelstiltskin paled, hastily gaining his feet. "What is it, sweetheart? Are you in pain?" He ignored the former queen and wrapped an arm around her waist, leading her to the corridor where the restrooms were located.
"Just a bit queasy, Rumpel. Maybe if I can have a minute to splash some water on my face," she tried to reassure him as she disappeared behind the door.
Regina wasn't finished with him apparently. "What the hell is that on her back? If I didn't know better, I would say it's a tattoo of your dagger."
The mage rolled his eyes, seconds away from losing the thin shred of patience he had left. "You have no idea what the two of us went through to find our way back to one another, dearie. And I really have no desire to share the tale with you. Now if you would … let it go, please."
She smirked. "That doesn't work on me anymore, Rumpel."
"I was trying to be polite!"
A tremor shook the entire diner, sending Regina careening into the wall. Rumpelstiltskin braced his hand against the door jamb, the color draining from his face as his wife's scream split the air. "Belle!" He shoved the door open, uncaring of who else might be inside, his beloved his only concern. "Belle!"
"Rumpel!" she cried in horror. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to do it. I was afraid." It wasn't the first time she'd lost control of her magic, and she was certain it wouldn't be the last.
He stared at her pale trembling form where she stood gripping the door of one of the stalls, her other hand wrapped around her belly. "Why? What frightened you?"
She bit her lip. "My water broke. The baby's coming!"
The spinner of deals forgot how to breathe.
"Rumpelstiltskin, don't you dare pass out on me!" Belle wailed.
He sucked in a deep breath and shook off his growing panic. His darling wife needed him now. "Hatter!"
Jefferson shoved a gaping Regina out of the way to assess the situation. "Oh, hell!"
"Call the hospital. Tell them I'm coming back in with my wife. Make sure Brian is there!" he commanded, scooping Belle up into his arms and carrying her out to the car.
Regina followed after them. "What was that … that … earthquake?! Rumpelstiltskin!"
He didn't pause, strapping Belle into the passenger seat and sliding in behind the wheel. Jefferson glared at her as the two drove away. "That happens sometimes when she gets scared. Nothing to worry about."
"Because of the baby?" Emma asked, having been a silent observer while Madam Mayor threw her royal fit. How could the babe not have magic with the Dark One as its father?
He shook his head. "No … because Belle has magic now. I'd be glad to tell you a little fairy tale in exchange for a lift to the hospital."
"Papa, where is Uncle Rum taking Auntie?" Grace asked, having darted outside to see what was going on, Henry at her side. "Is she alright?"
"Oh, you've got to be kidding me!" Regina squawked.
Emma didn't waste any time leading the way to her car.
*.*.*
An hour later, Jefferson leaned back in his chair in the second floor waiting room and smirked at the dumbfounded faces staring back at him. The Charmings, as well as the pirate, had joined them, having come to see for themselves that the Dark One and his wife had returned. They hadn't believed Leroy at first when he'd begun shouting the news through the streets. The tale the hatter had spun for them had left them all floored.
"Zeus," Emma squeaked. "As in the god Zeus?"
Regina shook her head in disbelief.
The pirate glared. "Shouldn't be so hard for you to believe, love, after meeting Hades and all."
Henry sat in a corner, his head together with Grace as they talked quietly.
"Well, it's not that far-fetched considering some of the things we've seen over the past several years," Snow offered with a shrug.
Belle's screams filtered down the hall from the maternity suite they'd brought her to. The modern medications they tried to give her were burning through her body at an alarming rate, her magic hindering any relief they might've brought her. After the first real pain hit her, she'd made her husband put a block on their bond, so he wouldn't have access to her emotions … well … after they picked Rumpelstiltskin up off the floor. He'd doubled over with a yowl and then fainted dead away. Now they were playing the waiting game.
"So, what … he's the Light One now?" Emma asked, plopping into a chair next to the hatter.
"Don't call him that, sweetling," Jefferson chuckled. "He might not be the Dark One any longer, but that doesn't mean he can't create his own brand of mischief."
Henry dragged his mother out to the vending machines, wanting to have a private chat with her, leaving the others to continue their argument. What he was to propose wasn't going to make her happy. "Mom? Can I ask you something without you getting mad and wanting to lock me in my room for a month?"
Emma paused in adding coins to the machine, squinching her eyes closed and praying for patience as she turned to look at him. "I won't get mad."
"You promise?"
"Henry!"
"Ok!" he said, a small grin curling his lips. "Just hear me out before you go all overprotective supermom on me."
Emma counted to ten in her head, waiting.
"If it's ok with Grandpa, I want to go back with them for a while. Please?" he pleaded. "I miss them, and I want to get to know my new aunt or uncle. They're my family too, Mom."
"This has to do with that girl, doesn't it? Jefferson's daughter?" she asked calmly, even though she was a whirlwind of tension on the inside.
He blushed to the tips of his ears. "Yeah … I want to get to know her again. We used to be really good friends."
"Henry …" she whined. "You know Regina is never going to go for this."
"If she says yes … can I go? And if it's ok with Grandpa?"
It had been a long time since she'd seen his face so alight with hope and excitement. He was growing up so fast. How could she just let him go off to the Enchanted Forest with Rumpelstiltskin of all people for the gods only knew how long? What if he got attached to the hatter's daughter and decided he wanted to stay? Ugh! Then again, how could she deny him when he'd already lost that connection to his father's side of the family. First Neal dying and then Rumpelstiltskin portaling himself and Belle away from Storybrooke.
She groaned and slammed two more quarters into the slot. The soda clunked loudly in the tray before she reached for it and shoved it into her son's hands. "Let's go talk to Regina. But I ain't making any promises."
*.*.*
Two hours later …
Rumpelstiltskin's lip trembled, tears falling freely from his lashes as the weary doctor set the sorcerer's wee daughter in his arms. "Hi there, my little dearie," he whispered. "I'm so happy to meet you." She fussed, her little bow mouth pursed, one arm flailing. "It's alright; Papa's here."
Belle moaned piteously as the nurses cleaned her up. "Is she alright, Rumpel? Let me see," she croaked, her voice rough and raw from screaming. Her fingers brushed lovingly over the little one's tuft of tawny hair, and she was unable to hold back her own tears of joy. "She looks like you."
He looked closer, seeing for himself the slight resemblance she bore to him. The shape of her eyes, the same color hair, but he knew that could change as she grew. He could see more of Belle in her. "She's beautiful, Belle … just like you." He couldn't resist pressing a kiss to her tiny brow. "What shall we name her? I know we'd talked about names, but hadn't really decided …"
Belle brushed her fingers over her daughter's cheek, fighting to keep her eyes open after such a battle to push her child into the world. "Hope … I think we should name her Hope. Hope LizBeth … after your aunts Elizabeth and Bethany?"
"Hope LizBeth Gold," he breathed reverently. "It's perfect, sweetheart."
"If it hadn't been for your hope we could mend our rift, I would have been here alone, Rumpel."
He shook his head. "I wouldn't have abandoned you. I would have been here for you both … even if you didn't want me to." He leaned into her touch as she laid her hand upon his cheek, his lips pressing a kiss to her palm. The bond opened between them, their love bursting bright and pure.
"I'm so unbelievably happy, Rumpel. I love you."
Rumpelstiltskin met her halfway, claiming her lips in a soft kiss. "As I love you, my Belle … forever."
Belle leaned back against the pillows. "Go … let them help me into a clean gown. Bring our daughter out to meet her godfather. Jefferson must be dying to see her."
He stared longingly at the door before meeting her eyes once more. "You're sure?"
"Of course. Go."
Rumpelstiltskin tucked his daughter securely into the cradle of his arms and left the room, a nurse at his side. He cooed softly to her as they traversed the deserted corridor. His brows drew together into a deep frown as he slipped into the waiting room, and into the middle of a fierce argument between his former pupil and the savior.
"What the hell are you thinking, Emma?" Regina scoffed. "I'm not letting my son traipse off to the Enchanted Forest with that imp!"
"Rumpelstiltskin is his grandfather, Regina. It's not like we're sending him off to another realm with a stranger." Emma crossed her arms over her chest and leaned back against the wall, already weary of the argument. "You think I like this idea any better than you do? I'm thinking of Henry … and what he wants."
"What's going on in here?" the mage asked calmly.
Jefferson and Grace both shot out of their chairs and crowded around him to get their first glimpse of the baby. The hatter had tears in his eyes. "Oh, Rum, she's beautiful." He leaned over and ghosted a kiss across Hope's tiny brow. "Yes, you are, precious."
Grace cooed softly, kissing the baby's hand where it latched onto her finger. "She really is, Uncle Rum. What name did you choose for her?"
"Hope," he murmured, as if it were the most treasured name in creation. "Hope LizBeth. Belle chose it."
"It's perfect."
Emma came to stand behind the girl, also wanting her first glimpse of the baby. Her emerald eyes softened. "She's gorgeous. Congratulations, Gold."
Though reluctant to let her go, Rumpelstiltskin handed her off to Jefferson who looked as if he were going to have some sort of fit if he didn't get to hold his goddaughter. It gave him a chance to address the chaos going on around him. "What has you and Regina fighting amongst yourselves, dearie?"
Henry stepped away from Jefferson, where he'd been fawning over the baby, and tried to explain. "I want to go back to the Enchanted Forest with you, and mom is having a royal fit. She doesn't want me to go."
The sorcerer's brows shot up into his hairline. "You want to go home with us?"
Henry nodded. "I miss you, Grandpa … and Belle, and I want to get to know the baby. If … if it's ok with you?"
Rumpelstiltskin's gaze caught on Grace, taking note of the blush riding her cheeks. "And perhaps a certain young lady who visits my castle quite often? Your sudden desire to stay with me wouldn't have anything to do with that, now would it?" he leaned over to whisper, quite amused.
"He's not going!" Regina snarled. "You have the only means of opening a portal to the Enchanted Forest, and I can't let him go with no way to bring him back. And I don't trust you, Rumpel. You forget how well I know you and your tricks."
The mage smiled grimly. "I wouldn't hold the boy there against his will, dearie. Nor would I keep him from you out of spite. But you are his mother, and I will respect your decision."
Henry dropped his gaze to the floor, his shoulders drooping dejectedly. Emma couldn't stand to see him so defeated. Her head swung around to meet Regina's obstinate gaze. "What if I were to go with him?"
Snow and Charming rose from their seats, horror written all over their faces. "Emma!"
"No, seriously," the savior protested. "I could go with Henry. I've been to the Dark Castle before … not like it's a big deal or anything. Belle's going to need help for a while anyway, while she recovers."
"What?!" Killian growled. "I can't just let you –"
Emma shot him a quelling glance. "I don't remember asking you. This is for my son, and I'll do what's necessary to make him happy. I won't be gone that long."
"Then I'll go with you," the pirate said.
"Not bloody likely," Rumpelstiltskin hissed. "You're not coming within ten feet of our home!"
Regina pinched the bridge of her nose, feeling like the villain. Henry's eyes were so full of hope, pleading with her to give in. How could she say no if Emma would be there to protect him?
"Please, Mom?"
"Come on, Regina. Do it for Henry," Emma persisted.
The former queen crossed her arms stubbornly over her chest and pursed her lips. Everything in her screamed not to let the boy out of her sight, but her heart, her love for her son, yearned to make him happy. "Two weeks," she caved. "Is that acceptable to you, Rumpel?"
Henry threw his arms around his mother and squeezed the breath out of her as the mage nodded his acceptance. Grace beamed at Rumpelstiltskin, equally excited at the prospect of spending more time with Henry.
Hope let out a wail, and her father took her into his arms once more. "Pack a bag, my lad, and don't forget your storybook. I'm sure Hope would enjoy hearing you read to her." His features softened even more as he looked down at his wee daughter. "Come along, little dearie. I'm sure your mother is wondering where we are."
Jefferson dropped down into a chair, a winsome smile gracing his full mouth. It pleased him no end to see Grace so happy. And the arguments which ensued between the savior and her parents and then with that smarmy pirate were enough to entertain him for hours. Yes … life was good.
*.*.*
Zeus clucked his tongue impatiently as he strode into his sanctuary to find his beloved Hera crouched next to the scrying pool, her avid gaze riveted to the scene before her. She had that wistful expression on her lovely face, the very one she always wore when she spied on the sweet issue of Rumpelstiltskin and his true love. "Spying again, dear one? I've been looking everywhere for you. I should've known you'd be here."
Hera's lips curved into a radiant smile as she stepped into the circle of his arms. "Look at them, darling. Hope is such a precious little gem, and she makes her parents so very happy. The three of them fill my heart with so much gladness."
He pressed his lips to her brow, humming in agreement before he led her out into the hall. "And are they the only ones you watch with such interest?"
Hera's dark eyes glittered with a sparkle of mischief. "I'd be lying if I said yes."
He guffawed loudly, drawing the attention of several members of the high court. "Is that so? You've seen it too, then?"
She nodded sagely. "There's a spark there, husband … even if they don't realize it yet. The hatter deserves his own chance at happiness after losing his Alice so tragically. Don't you think?"
"We cannot interfere, dear one. If it is meant to be, they will find it on their own."
"Oh, posh! Two weeks isn't enough time to find love," she pouted. "And the savior is probably the most stubborn woman I've ever set eyes upon. You've seen how she wastes time on that pirate in a bid to find her own heart."
"Hmm."
"If only she had more time," she cajoled. "Henry hasn't been able to convince her to stay longer, and I'm afraid the boy's heart will be broken should he have to leave his darling Grace."
He knew what she was doing. Rumpelstiltskin and Belle, their triumph over so much adversity to find their love again, only encouraged her to watch the mortal world more closely. She sought it out like those sappy romantic movies Emma spoke of. It was a drug to her, to see the mortals find true love.
"I'm not suggesting we intervene, my love. Not much," she added under her breath. "I'm just asking for more time for them."
Zeus patted her hand where it rested in the crook of his elbow, uncaring of where she might be leading him. "And what do you propose, Hera?"
She drew him out into the courtyard where Artemis oversaw her charges at the archery range. She stopped next to the fountain and waved a delicate hand over the water. "Regina misses Henry, yes. But she misses her love more. Her heart is so heavy, Zeus. Might we help her? Perhaps if she found her happiness again, she would be willing to allow Henry to spend more time with Grace? And in turn, Emma would have more time with Jefferson."
He looked out over the range to the archer. Only by his own hand had he been able to save the man from oblivion by his brother's own foul machinations. "Out of the question."
"It is not beyond your power, my love." She pressed her lips to his jaw, reveling in his answering growl. "For me?"
The god's eyes narrowed, but there was no heat within them. "You are a trifling witch and I don't know why I put up with you."
Her melodious laugh drifted across the serene courtyard. "Because you love me, husband."
"I do, my sweet Hera." Still he hesitated. "And you think it would behoove everyone to send him back to the fallen queen?"
Hera smiled coyly up at her true love. "Love … true love … is blooming across the realms. If the Dark One and his beloved could conquer so much adversity, think of the others. Even now I can picture the happiness Henry and Grace will find with one another no matter what realm they settle in. And who could bring Jefferson more happiness than Emma if he can thaw her heart? Regina being gifted with her outlaw would bring it all together."
Zeus arched one golden brow at her. "And what of the pirate?"
Hera snorted. "Has she given him a thought since she arrived at the Dark Castle?"
He waved his hand over the fountain's crystalline waters, giving them a glimpse of the future, smiling broadly at the picture it presented. "You're making it a habit of being right as of late."
His goddess bowed her head humbly though her mouth spread into a self-satisfied smirk. "Then you agree?"
"Indeed, dear one. Hurry … send a page for Winter. We have a job for her."
The End
A/N: And so, we've come to the end of our tale. I really hope everyone enjoyed this story :D I had such a wonderful time writing it. This was truly an emotional rollercoaster from the get-go! A heartfelt thanks to Ethereal_Wishes and her love of angst lol. Please let me know what you think and a thousand thank yous to all who reviewed. Your support is just amazing. *love and hugs*