Gold clings to the shawl, his hands wrapped so tightly around it that his knuckles are white, and Belle can't help but feel happy for him. The promise of Bae is almost tangible and Gold's excitement rushes through the air, getting her caught up in it, as well.
Her hands are resting on top of his, a warm reminder of her love, a love that burns like the light in her eyes, like a sunset that won't ever fade into night. Her laughter is contagious and he smiles at her between chuckles, his eyes more radiant than he's ever seen as he comes from behind the counter to wrap his arms around her.
She rubs his back reassuringly, grinning from ear to ear, holding him as close as possible. "This is my journey, Belle," he says, his voice quivering with emotion, and she nods.
"I know."
It truly is his journey, she thinks, one that will redeem him completely, and when he returns, she'll be waiting for him, forever his keeper, forever his price.
Please R&R! ;)
