Look After You

by snarkysweetness

The courtship of Emma Swan and August W. Booth from 'True North' onward. This is a behind-the-series story on how I see their relationship developing throughout the first season and then into my own version of what happened after the finale. There's a lot of character development and backstory that we don't really see in the show, but is hinted at. More inside.

26. Bonding

Title: Look After You
Chapter Twenty-Six: Bonding
Author: snarkysweetness
Rating: PG-13
Characters: August , Henry, Emma (kind of), & Regina; Emma/August
Summary: August and Henry bond at the diner.
Warnings: Cuteness.
Disclaimer: I own nothing.
Author's Notes: I really love the dynamic with these two, it's lovely.

"Is it true you're dating my mom?"

August looked up from his notebook to find Emma's kid scrutinizing him. He couldn't help but give the precocious little guy a smile. Leaning back against his booth he motioned for the kid to sit in front of him. He hid his amusement when he saw the outline of the book in his bag.

"If I was dating your mom would it be okay with you?"

"I don't know, it's none of my business, I guess."

August shook his head at the irony and felt his phone shake in his pocket. He slipped it out and set it down on the table only checking it when he saw he had a message from Emma.

Got the kid's book back. Don't try to tell me it's your magical well water, either.

"What's so funny?"

"Nothing, your mom just has a hard time believing in magic."

"Tell me about it," Henry said with a sigh.

"You know, she told me about your book, and I think if you give her some more time, she'll believe."

The kid gives him a skeptical look.

"So…you don't think I'm crazy?"

"I'm a writer; I believe that anything can be possible. If I didn't, well, then I wouldn't be very good at what I do, would I? I think we all need to be open to whatever may be out there."

The kid is still skeptical and August begins to notice all of his similarities to Emma and finds himself liking the kid more. Aside from being curious and imaginative the kid had spunk. Not to mention he could see a stubborn streak in there.

"So, you never answered my question."

And a smart-ass. August was impressed.

"Your mom and I are just friends."

Henry gave him a knowing look.

"Right. So, what's your name, anyway? Since you and my mom are 'friends'."

August actually laughed this time.

"August. August Wayne Booth."

"Like Batman?"

The kid even said things August could imagine Emma saying.

"Yeah, like Batman."

The kid nodded appreciatively.

"Cool."

"Henry?"

They both winced at the sound of Regina's voice.

"I better go before my other mom comes over here."

This kid killed him.

"Okay, but, hey, just to make sure you don't lose the book again, maybe you should lock it up somewhere safe."

Henry grinned.

"Good idea. Thanks!"

August watched the kid take off before picking up his phone to send Emma a response. The last thing they needed was for Regina to get her hands on the book.

Your kid is too smart for his own good.

A moment later his phone vibrated.

He gets it from me.

August smiled.

Clearly.