A.N.: Well this is the shortest turnaround yet for this story, finally! So, it is back to a bit shorter, just about 14.8K words right here, and not very heavy on the whodunit part of the plot.

Quick note/reminder - I do so love all your reviews, and I love hearing about what people think will happen, or want to happen, but as I initially stated… This has been plotted out in full since the very beginning. I have an outline. I write out of order, so a lot of future things are already written. I know what I'm doing & what I intend for this overall. Still, thank you! And I do still want to hear your predictions & wishes! I just am not writing this according to like, requests.

Chapter 7: Tangled vs The Dream Job

playlist on YouTube Ch7: Tangled vs the Dream Job (Broken Dreams)

They say dying for someone is easy...

Eugene woke up first again. More comfortable with everything than the previous morning, he turned over to face her, content to lay there relaxing some more. He stared longingly at Rapunzel's peaceful smile and soft cheek as she still slept, and wondered if he could get away with kissing it without waking her up. His own smile crept up, but he let her be.

This is the freest I've felt or been in forever… It's almost as if… I was trapped, too, just like her… Other than that crown, to get away to an island, I never saw any other way out.

Practically at 6:45 on the dot, she stirred, and quickly registered the weight beside her. -OH! He-! She forced herself awake and turned to face him, as sleepily uncoordinated her eyelids were. He's still here!

With an unbridled grin now, he propped himself up on his arm, watching her.

As he came into sharper focus, warm sunlight shining in behind him, she laughed from joy and relief.

"Mornin', Blondie," he chuckled.

"Heyyy," she cooed, reaching out to clumsily palm his smooth cheek down to his neck.

He dipped his face down as a blush took over him. Waking up with you… A sigh turned into a giggle.

She gazed on him til his eyes returned to hers. "You're still here…" she mused.

"Heh…" He blinked slowly but nodded. "Yeah. Yeah I'm still here…" Just as not-smoothly, he stuck his fingers through her hair, but effectively brushed most of it back, leaving his hand on her neck as well.

They studied each other's drowsy eyes another moment, smiles tugging into smirks… They both rushed in for a kiss simultaneously, pulling each other close together. Arms readjusted to completely wrap around.

Eugene wrapped a leg across hers, pulling them between his. Oop, yeah-heh. Good morning! He chuckled into her.

Rapunzel broke the kiss picking her head up, giggling. She pressed her thigh into him, enjoying how he eagerly responded. "Good morning," she purred out herself.

Giggling himself, he replaced his closed lips on her neck. God this is heaven… just don't think about… In order to achieve that, he squeezed his arms around her tighter.

She sighed out, squeezing him tighter, too. How did I ever survive without such hugs?! And just- all of this!

"Blondie," he smirked, leaning up to her ear, "I wanna show you more…"

"More?" she snickered, "With that?" She motioned downward.

"No, actually," he leaned away to see her face. "I wanna…" He gulped, and dragged one hand all the way down to her bare hip. "Touch you…" A small kiss. "Inside."

She leaned away a bit more, unsure how he meant that. "What?"

"Just a finger," he assured her, then moved said fingers up to her soft parted lips.

Ho… She held his hand there, then slowly moved to lick his fingertips, remembering how it had tickled hers last night.

He lost his breath watching and feeling her. His heart pounded as he pushed one into her mouth.

She grinned, and sucked on it, relishing the moan he gave her for it.

How is the woman who saved my soul - so hot and innocent?

Of all the new things and changes… Eugene… you're the most amazing…

He finally gasped enough to get a raspy voice going. "Th-that's… really hot," he grinned, "But… I meant down there."

She hummed and chuckled as she popped her lips off his finger. "Oh reeeally?" She took to biting her own lip. Eee YES!

"C'mere," he grabbed her neck to lock them together in another kiss. Then his hand dove back down to her hip, followed the crease between tummy and thigh, to in between her legs. She gasped through his mouth, but leaned into his cupping hand. His other arm stayed wrapped around her shoulders, holding her close. Hers she held around his strong neck, bracing her nerves. Two fingers, this time his middle and ring fingers, slipped between her lips, and stroked upward for her. Her quickened breathing made her break the kiss, instead pressing her forehead into his. He nuzzled her nose with his, watching her face, both enraptured.

"You said… inside?" Oh, his finger instead of… and then… soon…

"Yeah." He played with her there for a while, as he stole more kisses all about above, til she was good and worked up. "Blondie…"

"Yeah?" she gasped.

"Ready?" He brushed their cheeks together.

"Yeah," she chuckled.

He kissed her cheek, then his fingers glided back through all the extra juices. As he sighed out against her neck, he slid his forefinger in, as she inhaled deeply. Niiice… He sighed again in relief, and kept swirling around in circles.

Ohhh… that actually feels niiice... She tilted toward him to give him a better angle, and moaned when the rest of his palm still pressed against her clit. Whoa...

"Ya okay, Blondie?" His lips closed over her earlobe.

She shivered from that, but otherwise just moaned out against his neck. "Eugene…"

His heart skipped. Huh, 'Eugene' can be a good lover, too… He chuckled. I mean duh, it's still ME! "Good?"

"Yeah," she breathed.

Slowly, building it up bit by bit, he began rocking his finger in and out, til he switched it out for his middle finger. It reached in ever so slightly farther. Her gasps continued, along with his own panting. The rocking spread to the rest of them, as their bodies picked up the rhythm together. He moved back forehead to forehead. "Second one?"

"Uh-huh!"

He added his ring finger, both slipping around easily. Yesss… Then he made sure his palm of his thumb was squarely set against her swelling clit. Here we go… He began flexing that powerful forearm to flick his wrist back and forth, as fast as he could.

Oh my- She nearly cried out loud but had completely lost her breath at how it took over her so completely and the pleasure surging from the whole area at once. She squeezed her arms around him tighter, and pressed her full, soft body up against his taut self in desperation for that pressure he was gladly dishing out. Every nerve was building and building and winding up; but without release she floated there intertwined with him, simply falling apart into a mess.

His arm around her slight shoulders moved to grab the back of her thrown-back head, and shove her face into the crook of his neck. "Quiet," he hissed, but with a humor behind his voice.

She latched her mouth onto a fleshy part, between all of his throat, clavicle, and shoulder. How did he- the other night? There, she suctioned her lips over his flesh, and sucked.

His own moan came out too loud, as the whole act surprised him. God, yes yes yes… That singular spot stung with such a good pain, he could not have thought to stop her if he tried. Elsewhere, however, he felt her lose her rhythm to jerkier movements, and he adjusted his hand accordingly. "Cum for me, Blondie."

Her mouth had to release him as she felt herself give in to giving way. It was all still more overwhelming than the last, and she could not help it. Even after grinding about with him, she moved to throw herself back -

But he followed, rolling atop her between her legs, as he continued, and she finally came, shaking beneath him. He felt her clenching around his fingers, bringing more moans from him, as he finally slowed his hand for the last few movements to finish it off.

They lay there a moment, both panting, trying to catch their breaths, as they turned into giggles. He picked his head up to see her, with his naturally giddy smirk cutting deep into his cheekbones.

She gazed up at him, with her own impish grin, as she let an arm fall back above her head. After a few breaths, she tried to speak, but only giggles came out now that they were eye-to-eye again.

"What," he chuckled, then shifted his hand again, on purpose.

She meeped and shifted her pelvis.

His giggles returned, interspersed with all the tiny kisses he began dotting her face with.

"Ahhh," she squeaked more quietly and drawn out, as she playfully pushed him away, "I'm still all tingly!"

He snickered against her. "No no no, one kiss for every freckle. 'N hold on, I'm not done." He continued.

She continued twitching from every touch of overstimulation. "Oooh," she groaned as she teasingly chastised him, "You're baaad."

"See that's where I'm more comfortable," he teased back.

Slowly, she came down anyway and sighed. "I'm kidding. You're the best." Her hands halted his face, much to his shock, so that she could kiss his lips.

Carefully, he finally extricated his fingers from her, but settled in laying sprawled there atop her. He broke the kiss in order to lick his fingers off, then nestled his head down into her bosom. "Mmm, aaand good night."

She full-on laughed at him, but hugged his slim form against her. "Eugeeene," she sighed with love. "We gotta get to breakfast."

He closed his eyes tight and groaned. But I don't wanna leave this moment…

A knock came at the door.

Their eyes both shot wide. Eugene practically backflipped off of her and rolled off the other side of the bed to grab his new navy pants back on.

"Did you lock the door?" she urgently whispered over to him on the floor.

"Oh you bet I fuckin' did, but anyone could have a key!" he turned his head back up over the edge of the bed to reply. "Fix your nightgown!"

Finally the voice of a guard called through the door without opening it: "Council meeting before breakfast."

"YES SIR!" Eugene called back anxiously. "WE'LL BE THERE!"

He and Rapunzel locked terrified eyes, freezing til they were sure that was all. Both sighed in relief.

She got up out of bed, but waited. My regular clothes are back at my room...

He quickly redressed in the rest of his new cream peasant shirt and brown vest, before even standing back up, paranoid of the door opening. "Ready?"

She blushed. "Maybe I should start leaving a dress here."

He smiled before he knew it. Whoa leaving her things at my place - wait. Ugh. He jerked away, suddenly looking around for his boots right in front of him.

By the time Rapunzel dressed and they made their way to the meeting room attached to the King's office, everyone there had been waiting for them, with varying levels of annoyance.

"After comparing all the testimonies," the Captain stated while looking over a paper, "And reviewing the facts of the case, we've decided to charge this Nicholas with the murder of George Fleming, and sentence him to death by hanging."

Rapunzel's jaw dropped as she gasped. Wha… But her voice disappeared. Just like that?! Does NOBODY here care about dishing out executions at the drop of a hat?

Eugene's stomach dropped, even though it was not directed at him. Well there goes my appetite for breakfast...

Bryn sat with his arms folded and one foot crossed over his knee. "Is that all you called us here for?" he said with a harsh amusement.

"Ah-" Rapunzel tried to say something. They can't!

Eugene was the only one who noticed and glanced at her, seeing the complete distress on her face. Oh, Blondie… Yeah, this is your system...

The Captain continued, "Not all at least. Rider's friend we met with, we already heard back from him."

"And?" Bryn asked.

The Captain smirked and looked to Eugene. "Your guild declined the offer of pardons, but did deliver to us what had been their payment. All Southern Isle coins, some choice obsidian pieces, and, the name of the man who supplied the map: It was Fleming alright. We had never told them that name, so it stands to reason we can believe that."

Eugene raised a brow but looked away. Clever, Cap, but I could've told him that name. So you're actually trusting my work?

"Ah," Bryn smiled, "Excellent work, Captain!"

Rapunzel was still cringing and swaying in place. So… that's it…

"Y-... Your Majesty," Eugene finally spoke up, turning all heads toward him.

The King looked to him expectantly. "Yes?"

Eugene looked down to Rapunzel though, and elbowed her arm.

Oh no… She gulped. All eyes turned to her instead. "Uhhh…" Suddenly she pitched into a frantic spiel. "Could we just hold on a second here- About Nick- It's just that- there's no proof; it's all circumstantial; and he says he has absolutely no idea about anything, so isn't there- anything else we can do…?" She puttered out finally, surprised she was not interrupted, but still nervous nonetheless.

"And frankly," Eugene added to back her up, "If he is truly innocent, then there is no way he'd be able to defend himself."

"What is he to you?" Bryn asked suspiciously.

"I mean, I don't know him, but…" Rapunzel cringed.

"He's just a kid," Eugene sighed. "I know he looked up to me but I didn't really know him too well."

The Captain sneered gruffly, "What, you expect us to let him go?"

"No," Eugene shook his head, but stood up straighter as he realized he was at least being taken seriously. "Just, a stay." He then turned to watch Rapunzel as she locked eyes with her father.

With her throat thick, she said boldly, "Don't punish him for something you can't prove."

The Captain began to speak with a growl, but Eugene cut him off, addressing him suddenly.

"I get it Cap. I was cocky, caught red-handed for the fame. There was never any question that I was guilty." He returned to the King. "But I just got a bad feeling about this. I don't think he did it."

"Well I don't like the idea of it no matter who's guilty!" Rapunzel exclaimed.

The King nodded, thinking for a moment. He exchanged looks with the Captain, who pleaded with his own pained expressions. He turned back to Eugene, then Rapunzel. "Very well. I believe Rapunzel and Mr. Fitzherbert have made their case. Captain, we'll hold him until we learn more."

The Captain sighed heavily. "Yes, Sire." He still shot Eugene a dirty look.

Eugene actually narrowed his eyes back at him. What? I was a punk, but let me grow up now.

Rapunzel beamed, full of surprising new pride in herself. I? Really?! I did that! She grinned up at Eugene and a chuckle burst out. Princesses CAN sort out the good and bad guys!

He smiled at her. Way to go, Blondie.

As everyone filed out, Rapunzel was out the door first, full of a new energy, and eager to get to breakfast. Behind her, the Captain held Eugene back, with a not-too-friendly grip on his shoulder, startling him.

He spoke quietly next to him. "Ya know there's no more leads in the investigation now. And we've exhausted any need for connection to your 'guild.' Now what're you gonna do?"

"Well then I guess I'll be on my way soon," he quipped back.

The Captain raised his brow to the King, who trailed behind lastly and who responded with a stoic acknowledgement. Then the Captain shot another glare at Eugene, before heading out the door himself.

Eugene took a deep breath, a little dizzy from the shock of what he himself had just said. It felt like the whole world had just spun too fast, nearly flinging him off. Leaving…? So much sooner than I expected… So… Tomorrow… So it doesn't become international news that Flynn and I are one in the same… Then again all the wrong people may already know. He rubbed his face and shook his head. When he looked back up, the King was already leaving as well. He trudged along after everyone.

At breakfast, Rapunzel picked back up on Eugene's rocky mood. She tried cheering him up, taking note of all the good things they had in the past couple days alone, laced with humor. It worked to only minimum avail.

He could only smile or chuckle when he did not think about what he had just decided.

"Now then, Eugene," the King called to him as they finished eating and a servant approached, "This man will help get you outfitted, then we'll be heading out right as soon as we're ready."

He smiled slightly and nodded.

The King watched him warily.

Rapunzel watched him with despair creeping back up.

"Y-yeah," Eugene finally answered, "Yeah, I just gotta do one thing before we leave then…" Gotta break your daughter's heart...

"And Rapunzel," the Queen spoke up, "I thought it would be nice if we could spend the day in the gardens, if you'd like?"

Wha- wow! Suddenly her mother was all she saw, as her face lit up, and she lost her breath. "I- I'd LOVE that!"

Eugene could not help but beam at her. You'll be okay here, Blondie…

After that tense breakfast, Eugene got dressed for the hiking-hunting trip, with his own old brown boots, pants, and belt, but also a new tan shirt and large green hunting jacket. He walked up to Rapunzel's open door, with her guard stationed outside. Both hands wrung the strap of his satchel across his chest as he halted just outside, beside her guard. He watched her for a moment, playing with the crown on her head in her dresser mirror. He took in the rich chocolate brown of her hair now, against the spring green of her flowy dress, with pale yellow sash across her bust, and pale pink bow below it. The crown glittering and sparkling atop her head made her look like a magical fairy, not just a princess. The morning sun was already throwing streaks through her mostly south-facing windows and reflecting all around, brightening up the whole room with a cheery air. A smile tried to climb up his saddened face. She's so…! Radiant! Wonderful! Perfect! Loveable! Don't do this! He weakly called to her anyway. "Princess..."

Eugene! She gasped and turned around, overjoyed to see him again, even though breakfast had been barely half an hour ago. "Oh-hhh…" She deflated. That's right… "You're already ready to go?"

He nodded, looking away.

She bounded over to him though and pulled him inside, even as he sighed. "Ah, just a moment!" she told the guard, then closed the door.

Eugene halted again just a few steps inside. "Princess…" he began again, sounding formal.

"Hm, you never say it like that," she mused as she hung on his shoulders. "Especially once we're alone." She searched his face, unfortunately becoming concerned with how concerned he looked.

Finally he looked her in the eye. "Because I don't like remembering that you are one."

She smirked at him, but was still confused. What's with him right now?

"So, Princess..." He removed her arms from his shoulders and took her hands. "I came here to tell you that, I've decided, that... tomorrow…" He paused, drawing deep breaths, struggling to say the actual words.

Rapunzel tensed, watching him battle it out with himself. Oh no...

"I'm leaving."

It still hit her with such a shock that sucked out all of her energy. "Wha..."

"I know, Blondie," he strained, leaning towards her, "I don't wanna-"

"No…" Her pulse picked up with adrenaline. "No, we can figure this out- we can-"

Oh, please don't hate me- "There's nothing to figure out, Blondie. You know I love you-" he reached his hand out towards her face.

She backed up. How could you...

"Please," he whined as he pulled his hand back, and clutched her other tighter. "I know I'm breaking my first promise ever. But-"

She stared into space. 'B-but... I promise. I will never leave you.' "You lied to me," she mumbled under her breath, dazed.

But he heard it. He had been waiting for the accusation since he first explained his false plan. "I didn't lie when I made that promise. That was before you told me you were the princess." What I lied about was after that...

"Why should that matter?" she choked out. "I made that deal with Flynn but you still took me even after you told me your real name."

His brow jumped. "I didn't take you around town because of the deal at all! I just wanted to. What I lied about was, yes, I wasn't planning on staying this long. And even my own secret plan I couldn't stick to. Because I do justwanna be with you."

She disconnected from him completely and hugged her own arms "You said you wanted me to at least meet them, that I didn't have to stay."

He fell serious. "I said what I had to to get you to come back."

"You manipulated me!" she suddenly screeched.

Eugene was taken aback at her volume change, but knew she was right. Still, he defended, "And you manipulated me to take you to the lights in the first place, then you lied about where my satchel even was. So?"

"That was different!" she cried, whirling around, and back again. She was at a loss for what to say or do, to express what she could hardly even identify. All she knew was that she did not want to argue with him. Yet it was all she seemed able to do.

"How is it that different? Just 'cause I didn't tell you the truth as to what I planned to do after?" He questioned, also not wanting to argue. "My reasons were true. I wanted you to meet your parents, since I know what it feels like to not be able to have them around. I want you to have your real family, to be provided for, to-to have anything you could possibly want!" He paused to draw in a few heaving breaths, as his voice strained with his next confession and he threw a hand out with emphasis. "And I can't give that to you!"

She crossed her arms in a hrmph, more aggravated with his declaration than moved.

"...so, yes, I manipulated you into coming back here. The same way," he sighed as he came down, "The same way I drew you in for a kiss before I cut your hair." In a near whisper, he finished, "For your own good."

She physically jolted away at the memory, and especially at the comparison. How dare you! She backed up, her expression slowly stretching into disappointed disgust.

He gulped, at a loss for what to do or say, besides to keep digging his own grave with his mouth. "Blondie, I love you, more than I've ever loved anyone or anything. And you are the first person since I was little, to love me. But I've lived and I've had my freedom and made more than my share of mistakes with it – I never wanted to become so selfish; it just didn't even matter for the longest time. But now I am trying not to be! I'm trying to put you first!" He shook his head, then grabbed one of her wrists at her waist, expecting to hold her hand gracefully. "Rapunzel, I want to give you everything, everything you could ever wan-"

She whipped her hand away, and he let her. "I want YOU!"

"Blondie! We can't win here! You already know my choices. It was your freedom or my life- You got it!" His other hand flicked up, brushing the ends flying out behind her head. She cringed in surprise at the haunting action, and the tingle. Then he grabbed the crown off her head, waving it around. "Their daughter or my wife? You deserve your family, and you deserve better than me!" He shoved the crown back at her chest.

She took hold of it, then swatted his hands away. "Don't tell me what I deserve. You know very well what I want," her cracking voice betrayed the front of anger she tried to uphold. "And you CAN'T keep me here!"

"You're not a prisoner here-"

"Then why can't I leave?!"

"This is your family!" he whined back, consciously not letting his voice go deeper instead. "This is exactly why I didn't wanna argue this back at the tower-"

"Because you knew I didn't want to go!"

"Yes you did!"

She groaned and threw her arms up, turning to walk back to her dresser, to put the crown back.

His breathing was frantic, but he idly followed her, scrambling. "At least you mostly did!"

She groaned. "Alright but that doesn't mean I want to stay here all alone."

He licked his lips, trying to find another avenue. "Beforehand, you said you felt like the lights were for you? That that's why you had to go see them? Well, surprise! They were for you! Why wouldn't you wanna meet who sent them, who's been desperately looking for you?!"

She whipped back around. "Yeah, the lights led me to YOU!"

"Not ONLY me! They set up the tradition; they have been searching for you. I just stumbled upon your tower. You have a real family here, Rapunzel! And a real future!"

Thinking of him, and the lights, that night on the water, compared to what he said now, it suddenly infuriated her, stirring everything up worse than before. "Then why are you still here?!"

"You KNOW why I'm still here!"

"What, the investigation, to clear your name?!"

"My name IS clear in that! I was with YOU the entire time!"

"Then WHY!"

He threw his hands out, exasperated, but recited again, "I'm here for YOU!"

"But if- if- if you're so persistent, that you don't want to STAY, and you won't let me come WITH you, then why- why don't you just-! JUST LEAVE NOW?!"

"Blondie!" he gasped at her. "Stop it!" he croaked out, finally run out of will to oppose her at all. "You KNOW that's not true! Why-?! Why do you wanna FIGHT me so bad?!"

She crumpled into her hands. "I don't know," she cried. This just… can't be happening!

He watched her, til he lost at holding himself back. He stepped up and pulled her into his chest. "Stop, just stop, please, just stop… I'm on your side here."

"I don't know..." She shut her eyes tight. "Just- I love you." He squeezed her tighter at that. "And I don't wanna lose you..."

"I know that." He took a deep breath. "Look, I'm sorry I lied to you about staying. Believe me, the last thing I want is for you to think I'm even less trustworthy that I already am. I don't want to see you hurt, or upset, but I- we don't really have a choice."

"You PROMISED you'd never leave me!" She pressed her forehead into his chest, and pounded her fist on it.

"I know, Blondie." He watched her steadily, as his own face wrinkled and pouted. His hands gripped at the base of her neck and waist for dear life.

"Don't you still-"

He pushed her away to bring her eyes back to the truth in his face. "Don't even- of course I still love you. And you know-"

"No- Listen- Don't you still- want to marry me..."

He winced. "I do… You were my New Dream, but this is another dream I have to give up on."

"I WAS," she glared at him as she grew angry again, pushing him away entirely.

"Blondie, I've said - you know I don't want to leave."

"Then stay!" she pleaded.

"I can't stay- not like we want- and it'll only get harder-"

"Or- why can't I leave with you?!"

"Because this kingdom needs their princess!"

Her eyes remained hard set on him. "You said no one would ever use me again…"

He gulped, but said carefully, "There are bigger things at play here." I know, fuck, and I hate it, too!

"And you don't think it'd kill me to stay here? Alone?" I KNOW you understand. You understood THEN!

He took a deep, indignant breath. "Ya know, I'm sorry- I'm sorry for a lot of things, Blondie, but I am not sorry for bringing you back to your family. You belong here."

'Here' means without you! She waved her arm at him dismissively. "Oh, come on! You think I belong here, gone from isolated all my life to suddenly being in charge here?! Alone? With some stupid prince?!"

"You were born here! You belong with your family! You have a real, LOVING FAMILY right here- TWO whole parents who want you!" He leaned in as close as he could to her.

"Urrgh! I'm not like you, Eugene! I didn't know I even had another whole family til the other day!" She yanked on his collar and buried herself in his jacket. There's something else these past few days has made me want... "But you, Eugene?! I want to marry you, to stay with you, I- I… I wanted you to…" She groaned into his chest, feeling his resilient warmth, his comforting breath and heartbeat, even if quickened from the confrontation. If I don't tell him now I may not get to! Quietly, she whimpered, "I wanted you to be my 'first time…'"

Oh boy, here we go… He whined out in pure frustration at first, then moaned, "Hey, hey..."

"Just give me one night- just tonight- please..."

He tilted her chin up and wiped her cheek. Her eyes prayed up to his. Anything you want, Love. "I will." A kiss on her forehead. "I will, okay?"

She sniffled, and a tiny surprised smile crept up. "Really?"

"Yes, really." He smiled, too, a little broader, but just as painfully. "I love you, Blondie."

She retreated to his shirt again but threw her arms around his neck. He hugged her back dearly.

"I love you so much," he whispered into her ear as he nuzzled her hair. "And I do want you, I want that with you, too. I just... I don't want anyone to hurt you. I want to make sure you're gonna be okay."

"I don't want anyone else ever."

"You'll be fine, you'll be fine. I'm sure you'll find somebody else you like, right?"

"Nooo," she whined.

He reached up to smooth her hair away from her face. "Well don't think about any of that stuff yet. Don't worry about it now." A kiss on her forehead. "You just focus on tonight."

"Will you be back?" she asked, spitefully suspicious. He's just manipulating me again!

"Tonight," he whispered, then escalated, "I promise. I'll be back. I promise!"

"You 'promise?!'" she scoffed sarcastically. She pushed him away and shook her head, angry again. "You know, why should I believe - or, or, trust, ANYthing you say?!"

"Blondie, I-" He looked around, and down at himself, everything he carried. "I have nothing to prove I'll be back. But it's you I want; you know that! Isn't that good enough?"

He's STILL going to leave in the end, though! "I'll give you something to-!" she snarled, grabbing at his satchel.

"Hey- what're you-?!"

"Take THIS!" She snatched her crown back off her dresser and stuffed it in.

"Blon-!"

"AND GET OUT!" She smacked the satchel against his chest, and shoved him backwards.

"BLONDIE! YOU KNOW I-"

She kept pushing him toward the door, even as he did walk backwards with her. "AND STOP TELLING ME WHAT 'I KNOW!'"

"Heh- Jus-" Alright, you're right on that. He bit his tongue suddenly, jutted his jaw out, and nodded once in concession. He tried to reach into the satchel. "BUT GET THIS OUTTA HERE! I DON'T-!"

"I SAID OUT!"

At the doorway he finally held his ground, shoving the bag back toward her. "THEN TAKE THIS BACK!"

"I DON'T WANT IT EITHER!"

"WHAT THE FUCK AM I SUPPOSED TO DO WITH THIS?!"

"SELL IT! BUY YOUR STUPID ISLAND WHERE YOU CAN GO BE HAPPY ALL ALONE!"

"I DON'T- I'M NOT HERE FOR THIS!"

Quietly, she seethed, "Don't make me call the guard."

He hissed back, "With this on me?! Are you crazy?! You'd lie just t-?!"

She gave him one more good shove, flattening his back against the door.

"RaPUNzel!"

She reached past him and opened the door, and he stumbled backwards out into the hall, coming face to face with the guard, as he dumbfoundedly watched her slam the door.

"Eugene?" the King's voice came from only a couple feet away.

The hair on his neck stood on end, even as he felt his heart pierced, and his will to fight lay down in total defeat as he felt surrounded. His head, with mouth left agape from the shock of her outburst, lolled over to look beside him. He merely raised his furrowed brows at him, as his sinuses tightened.

The concerned and alarmed King hurried the last few steps to him. "What happened?" he demanded, though he sounded concerned for both parties.

Eugene took a deep breath and sighed. He slowly lifted his satchel strap off and pressed the bag into the King's arms. "Ask her." At that, he moped away. "I'll meet you outside."

The King looked inside the satchel. He saw the crown, then with a quizzical face, headed into Rapunzel's room.

With the door slammed, blocking his confusingly perfect face from her, she roughly ran her fingers through her hair, gripping the ends and pulling. Groaning and whimpering, from rage and sadness, she paced back around, landing face first down on her bed. At last the real tears broke through.

If he didn't want to stay, I could never try to keep him - I know - but he says he DOES want to stay! And what about me, though?! Am I only doomed to be trapped HERE now?!

The door clicked back open.

"I TOLD YOU-!" Rapunzel screeched again, but froze. Her reddened and tear-streaked face looked over her shoulder at the door. "Oh, Dad! Hi!" She jumped up, wiping at her face and straightening her dress. "Uh, you're all, uh," she sniffled as she wrung her fingers in front of her chest, "Heading out?"

"We are," he nodded, "But," he held up the bag. "I believe there's something of yours in here." He pulled the crown back out.

She blanched. Oh, great. What am I supposed to say? I got mad at Eugene so I was mean to him?! "Ummm…"

He walked over to her with it held delicately in his hands. "Rapunzel," he sighed, "As the royal family, I'm afraid there are many expectations that you, well, may not have expected."

She sighed deeply. "Yeah, uh, I was kinda raised expecting to spend eternity hiding in that tower, so, this, has all been, a bit much." She tried to laugh it off.

"It's, ah, traditionally at the age of eighteen that an heir apparent may accept or refuse their role." He held the crown up.

Refuse… She stared into the crystals, multiplying her reflection by three.

"But I of course had always hoped you would succeed me."

Her quizzical eyes darted to his. "Succeed you?"

"To… take over after me. The next ruler of Corona."

But… "And if I refuse?"

He cringed ever so slightly and sighed. "Should you refuse, then I'd be forced to appoint a successor anyway."

"Dad…" she sighed, then sniffled again. "I can't do this."

He inhaled deeply, but nodded with concern. "I will respect your choice, but will you at least give it some time before you make a final decision?"

She hung her head.

"Because I suspect I know the reason you're asking this."

No- She paled worse than before, blood running cold, as her attention darted back to his face.

The King sighed again. "What was all that yelling about before?"

She bit her lip, staring at his satchel, shoved under her father's arm. Maybe it's worth a shot? I don't really know where the limits are with them... "Dad, can I talk to you about something?"

He softened incredibly. "Anything, Dear."

"Well, um, first of all, I guess… Do youuu, like Eugene?"

He huffed the tiniest laugh and the corners of his lip turned up. "I suppose I like him well enough, for starters."

She twisted her arms together and held them up tightly to her chest. "And what if he were to get in trouble for anything?"

The King dropped down to a grave seriousness. "It would depend on what it was that he did."

That doesn't look good… Rapunzel's distress suddenly turned to a defensive type. "It was nothing bad! He just- He said afterward that it was something he could get in trouble for, but I really don't want him to!"

"Rapunzel, what di-"

She cried out over him. "Promise me he won't be in trouble, please!"

The King took a deep, steadying breath. "Alright."

She hesitated, but repeated, "P-promise me."

With another deep breath, he relented. "I promise you."

"Okay… welllll…" As she thought of the memory, however, that happily lovestruck look returned to her eyes, her smile turned dreamy, and she clasped her hands over her heart shyly. "A couple days ago, right after, everything at the tower, but before I told him I was pretty sure I'd figured out that I was the Lost Princess, he…" Deep breath… "He asked me to marry him."

For once, the King looked surprised, and downright astonished.

"He promised he'd never leave me," she began tearing back up. "But ever since then, he's been saying that we can't…" she choked, "Because of the princess thing."

He watched her a few moments more. "Rapunzel," he finally said shakily, not at all his normally cool and collected. Quietly he asked, "Is that what you want?"

She stared at him, lips pursed, nervously trying to gauge how safe it was to answer truthfully. Finally, she nodded, then exploded into excuses. "I'm sorry. You've been wonderful, and I'm so glad I've met you, but HE's the first person who ever actually saw ME, for who I am- now, and not just what my hair could do for them. He cut my hair, so that no one could ever use me again. He's- he's said I'm his New Dream, and he's mine, and there's so much more to him, more than you've even seen yet..."

The King looked away, but nodded. Then, a question came over his whole face. "'His New Dream?'"

"Um," she hesitated, "Like, how seeing the lights, at the lantern festival, was my dream. Right b-..." She took a deep breath. "Right before he died, that's what he said to me. That I was his New Dream. And…" Slowly, carefully, she dodged the emotions threatening to well up on her throat. "He's mine. And he still says that I am! Just that we can't now…"

The King watched her with a knitted brow.

"I'm sorry," she whimpered, closing in on herself, hugging her arms.

When she looked back to him, he was there with an outstretched arm. "Come here."

She dove into his warm soft chest.

"Rapunzel," he said with renewed confidence, "As a husband and father, those royal expectations are not more important than my family. It's ah, a perk of being the royal family, I suppose."

"I don't wanna get him in trouble, really, please, but... I'm sorry that I can't be who you want."

"Don't apologize." He released her, then returned to his neutral concern. "But the yelling?" he asked as softly as possible. "How did that happen?" He brushed her hair back, then held her shoulders.

She bit her lip and looked away. "He said he's leaving. Tomorrow."

His brow furrowed sympathetically again. "And I take it you're not happy about that?"

Her face screwed back up. "I do know he still loves me, and he says he does still want to stay with me, but then he says wants me to stay here, to be the Princess, and marry some Prince, he said..." She sniffled. "So… we-... I started arguing with him." She finally took the crown back from her father with another, "I'm sorry," and set it on her dresser. "I shoved it in his satchel and pushed him out."

"Yes, I, uh," he cleared his throat. "I heard that part."

She cringed, but sighed. "I'm sorry, he didn't do anything wrong… I just… I just don't wanna lose him. I wanna stay with him. Because, really? We make each other so happy…"

He smiled at her even as his brow furrowed. "Now that, I have seen, Sweetheart."

"Can you just," she winced, "Make sure he comes back with you tonight? Please?"

He pulled her close for another hug, then kissed her forehead. "Of course, Sweetheart."

She finally smiled thoroughly and relaxed. "Thanks…"

"You just enjoy the day with your mother. Don't worry about us."

She lit up at that, nervous, but also excited. Hope this all goes well…

Eugene waited outside the front door in the courtyard, along with the Captain and a detail of half a dozen guards.

The King emerged from the front door, and, smirking, tossed the satchel up to Eugene, already on Max.

Mirthless himself, he caught it. "This better be one priceless artifact short." He checked. Okay. THANK you.

"It is," the King announced, mounting his own horse, then eyed him knowingly, as they started their horses all moving out. "I heard you two all the way down the hall."

Eugene drooped his head, glancing back and forth at him. "I just told her I'll be leaving tomorrow."

"Are you now," the King said smugly, "I thought you'd been enjoying our hospitality, even with the troubles."

"I have!" he assured him. "I certainly have, and everything's been more than wonderful, but, since they're calling the rest of the investigation quits, I mean, you don't need me anymore, right?"

"You're a free man, Eugene," he glanced at him, "You can do whatever you want."

Eugene glanced back at him, his own face full of worries.

While their troop wound through the forest, the King brought up more business. "So, Eugene, I'd like to honor you at the announcement tomorrow, and then the welcome home celebration. Unless, you are leaving tomorrow?"

Eugene gulped. "I am"

"Then at least stay for the announcement."

"No. I'm sorry, Sir, you can't announce to the world that it was me. If suddenly everybody knows my real name and face, they'll connect it to Flynn Rider, and I'll never be safe again. And it'll connect her to Flynn Rider, so she may not be safe, either. Like yesterday, only worse."

The Captain cut in. "Pfft, you expect us to believe you wanna be just some anonymous benefactor?"

Eugene pursed his lips. I hardly made that much of a difference. She would've gone herself. She saved me. She figured it out herself. What did I really do that she couldn't have?

"Eugene?" the King prompted.

"I don't care what you think of why."

They stopped at a clearing near the start of a densely wooded trail. The Captain and their entourage began to set up a small campout there. Eugene looked about for something he could help with.

"Eugene," the King called.

"Sir!" he whirled right around with a wide smile that surprised even him. Surrounded by even this group of guards, the Captain, and King, he was among friendly forces. An honored guest even, and more or less respected. It was a classically beautiful sunny day, out and about in nature and the fresh air. This is just… so nice… God, is this where good decisions get ya?

The smiling King jerked his head over his shoulder, toward the trail.

Eugene kicked into step toward him, and followed him into the thicker woods. He was fully aware of the daggers the hesitant Captain was throwing at the back of his head.

Each man carried a rifle, ammo, and knife, while Eugene additionally had a bow and quiver crossing his chest. They walked on as they began talking, following the trail, brushing aside branches every so often.

"So, Eugene, what did you want to talk about?"

"Uh, anything, I guess," he chuckled, happily navigating the stones and roots jutting up, not at all surprised it seemed like he was feeling everything so much more. The sky was brighter, the grass greener, birds chirpier, and he could pick out every rustle from a bush or the running water of a distant stream. Rapunzel's mad at me - but somehow everything still feels like her! "I dunno, what do you wanna know?"

"Well, tell me about you."

"Eh," he instantly regretted it, his senses suddenly closing in on himself again, that beautiful world of nature suddenly shrunk back down, "Not much else to tell right now… Nothing that's not already in that report… Got stuck in the orphanage at eight, ran away when I was sixteen. Reputation got commissioned for this job, then here I am." ...wow that does all just sound… sad...

"How about, what else had you been up to as Flynn Rider?"

Eugene staggered and raised a panicked face to see the King turning back toward him. "Sir?" he asked, confused.

The King chuckled. "Seriously. Your pardon covers everything up to the other day. But, I recall, you said you wanted me to get to know what sort of man I'd just let go. So? Just be honest."

"'What sort of man…'" Eugene absently repeated under his breath, remembering them as his own from the other night. What sort of man - but as Flynn Rider… He gulped. "Well, ah… As Flynn… I've- Well I was stealing all kinds of stuff… Guess that also covers breaking and entering… But the most like… violent? was probably just some bar fights, that I guess got a lil ugly?" He shrugged. "Oh, and…" he cringed, "Some… uhhh... muggings? But they were usually hit jobs, and I never had to actually carry out any threats. But, uh, I'm serious, no… um…" Like, rape or murder, if that's what you're asking? He rubbed his neck. "Ehh, reeeally bad stuff, I guess? I always thought of everything as pretty victimless." He shrugged again, "At least, not face-to-face."

The King nodded along, politely averting his eyes in an attempt to lessen the pressure. "Nothing else?" he tried to ask carefully. "Afterall, it would already have been pardoned."

Eugene stopped walking, waiting for the King to also stop and turn around to see his deadpan, slightly ridiculous face. When he did, he tried to set the old man at ease. "I'm not a monster."

The King grinned easily. "I know you're not. But don't you realize what you've done?"

Eugene suddenly frowned and pouted anyway, reluctant to say anything more at all. He had to avert his eyes, unable to bear the guilt he felt from him. Yeah, I know, I hurt you and the Queen with taking the crown… But I also thought I made up for that with, ya know, Rapunzel?

But the King continued walking, apparently not expecting an answer anyway. But then he lifted the sling for his rifle off. "Actually, here, though, won't you carry this stuff."

Eugene's train of thought was immediately reset back to being helpful. "Oh! Sure! Of course, Sir." Even though it was obviously not a question, he was happy to be able to fulfill any request. So he added the other rifle across his chest as well, and the rest of the ammo, and even the King's sword, as he continued following him down the path.

"And what about at the orphanage- your education? What all do you remember?"

Ah, finally back to EUGENE questions! He cheered up and smiled again, fully present once more, even as his mind flitted back and forth to distant past classes. "Well Latin, you know, German and French and of course Italian, then Spanish isn't far off from that. Not all from school, lot were for a job or just wherever I happened to be. Math, eh, as we said, wasn't exactly my strongest though. Love to read though."

"What about history?"

"Oh, yeah. That too. Hasn't exactly been relevant that much in my life though."

"Economics by any chance?"

"Pfft," he laughed, "I was taught mostly by people who'd taken vows of poverty. So, no, sorry." Wow, though… He continued laughing more, but shyly now.

"What's so funny?" the King asked curiously.

He shrugged. "No one's ever asked me about school before…"

The King smiled endearingly. "Hm. And of course, I suppose, well… Let me just come right out and say it."

"What's that?"

"You're really turning over this new leaf all because of Rapunzel?"

He almost tripped. "Ah- ah- yeah, yeah…" he breathed out. "I…" He narrowed his eyes but looked away. "She… She's so special… She's sweet, and caring…" He caught himself sighing- Okay enough rambling about his daughter before something wrong comes out there! He shook his head out. "Me, on the other hand, I dunno. I've just begun to realize, that I was kinda trapped myself, too. In a life I hated… that I don't want anymore. But I couldn't see any way out, other than making one last score big enough to retire for life on… But once we met, she just, made me remember who I used to be when I was little. And who I wanted to be back then."

They reached a lookout point that opened up revealing they were atop a cliff. The view before them stretched out for miles all around, rolling hills splotched with green, a clear blue sky separated only by a thin fade of white from the same refreshing blue of a river winding between them below, and sandy colored stone stepping all the way down to it. In the distance toward the northwest, the river opened up to small islands in a delta, the largest of which, the teal-topped rocky castle grew out of.

"Wow…" The sight knocked the wind out of Eugene, but the next deep breath was full of how sweet the air was up here. Sweet, like freedom and adventure. "Beautiful…"

Behind him, the King relaxed, seated on a small boulder. "Eugene," he said calmly, "Sit."

He whirled around, found another boulder nearby, and plopped down.

They sat in silence for a few moments, taking in the view.

Finally the King spoke again, but softly. "You know… I always knew that whatever had happened to our baby Rapunzel, that nothing would ever be the same again. I've always known..."

Eugene glanced out the side of his eye at the King. Awww… Mushball.

"If she truly was, gone, then, yes, I would, someday, have to face reality. And the political fallout, especially after deluding myself from the truth for so many years... But, if she ever came back, I've always wondered… Would she have the capacity to rule?"

At that, Eugene quickly interjected, turning from the scenery to only look at the King beside him. "She does."

"Ah-" He had not meant to wait for an answer, but now turned to address the one he received anyway. "I, too, hope she will."

I'm not just 'hoping.' Eugene frowned. Where his hands were clasped draped across his knees, he took to rubbing his left palm again. "I've seen her do so many amazing things, some new things right off the bat. She's already so smart, and she's a fast learner."

"But it was such a grave thing that happened to her, I..." He looked out across the expanse. "I just don't know sometimes."

Eugene squinted at the much nearer formations as his mind turned these matters over for itself. "Not being raised by her real parents is just- the way life has been for her. It's a part of who she is now. And- and that's not horrible, or- or- or..." He cringed as he sighed, looking away. "I mean, yes of course it is a serious matter, and awful for all of you as a family, but she still had a life she'd made for herself. And she is such a wonderful person, nothing but compassion, despite who she did grow up with, despite the insecurities she got along with it. She is so smart, both educated, and wise enough, especially considering her age and yeah, inexperience." He hesitated on who to name forthcoming. "People just need to respect certain things for what they are about her, while still not treating her any different than you normally would anyone else."

"Does she blame me?" the King blurted, a burden he had apparently been carrying in the forefront of his mind for entirely too long.

Eugene looked back to him, stunned. "No... No, I don't think anyone blames you. Or the Queen."

"You were at least blaming the Captain the other night."

I was. Eugene tucked his chin down for a moment. "I'm just… angry. I saw how she was treated… I've even…" He sighed. "I've even seen her blame herself for not leaving ever before. But it wasn't any of your faults. It was Gothel, and her alone. Rapunzel knows that. And I mean, she's your daughter; of course you wanted the best for her, to protect her as best you could, like normal."

"Well, I'm not the one who can take credit for that…" The King stared at him hard for another moment, then finally smiled as he closed his eyes and bowed his head, trying to make peace with his guilt versus the former thief's answer. When he picked his head back up, he had a new track once more, with a new smile. "Eugene, do you realize what you've done?"

Eugene deflated. Again? "Concerning what, exactly?"

"You're clever. You've displayed quite an awareness of the current state of politics, even admitting to aiding The Southern Isles. I know that 'Flynn Rider' is not unknown to the Enchanted Kingdom. You knew there was no clear heir for Corona, the ambition of all those Westergaards, as well as the states of families of the other Houses." He paused, certain he could already read it in his face. "Eugene, you knew bringing her back would, in all likelihood, mean her marrying a Westergaard."

Yes... Eugene winced his eyes shut. "Which is why... They can never know it was me." He choked, knowing he would never be ready to face the reality that talk had turned to. Further to his chagrin, however, the King laughed. Face burning red, he jerked his face towards him, his lips curled back to show his gritting teeth. He wanted to demand what in this personal Hell of his warranted laughter, but did not dare voice any actual words.

"And have you ever met any of them?"

Eugene looked away. "I've… heard things…" None of them good… But, here she'll have some power, right? And they can't ALL be THAT bad...

The King settled back down, all the way back down to stoic, and finally cleared his throat. "Eugene," he began again, "Don't you realize what you have done?"

He groaned out loud, but finally lost it. "I know very well all I've done! Alright?!" he cried out right in his face, waving his arm about to demonstrate the great number of his offenses. Then he counted off his fingers, "I've doomed her to dealing with them for the rest of her life. I've stolen, cheated, lied, broken promises! Uh, treason?! I'm breaking her heart right now as we speak! I've screwed up, alright?! I know- I know!" With heaving breaths, he continued ranting, pointing his hand out at him. "I stole the only thing YOU had left of your only child! The very day before what would have been the most important day of her life! The day before her would-be Coronation! God, I- I just didn't let myself think of it that way, 'cause I wasn't thinking of anyone but myself, and what I could get, til I – But then I..." He trailed off as he calmed down. "I met her. And I wanted to help her to do whatever she wanted, go wherever she wanted to go, to give her everything I could, that I couldn't have myself… And she may think I have all the answers, but I don't even really know if this is what's best- If this'll ever let her be happy again- But I hope-..." He shook his head as he hung it. "I just want her to be happy."

The old man did not flinch. He remained stoically unfazed by the outburst, merely flickering his eyes over the younger's animated motions. An endearing grin spread across his face. "Eugene." His cheeks balled up into little red cherries, his eyes twinkled, and every line in his aged face creased with dimples. "You gave us our daughter back. You've restored our family."

Eugene swallowed down hard and sniffled. He stifled a sob, but gasped at the King's tenderness. He had seen several heartfelt thank-you's from both monarchs over the past few days, but this one felt different.

"The Royal Family. Did you really think that a clean slate would be your only reward?"

He cleared his throat as he went to chuckle a bit himself. A reward? On top of a pardon? "Honestly, Sir, I fully expected to be gone by the time you found Rapunzel on the balcony, and then I fully expected to be arrested when you did find me still there." His mind already began spinning. With any kind of reward, I won't be starting my whole life over from scratch- maybe I could find a steady place to live, a steady job, and then maybe I could still get somewhere… "So, thank you Sir, I- I have been wondering what I could do, to- to earn a living, now, ya know? 'Cause I don't want to go back to stealing, and Rapunzel would be disappointed if I did, but I don't- I don't really know where else to look or anything. So I guess enough to get on my feet? Or maybe a job?" He actually lit up at the possibility of steady sustenance.

The King pointedly looked off into the distance again. "You kids talk about your 'New Dreams.' So? What is that to you?"

The shock returned, along with the indignancy of realizing he had possibly been caught in not telling the whole truth. "Wha- Huh- How do you know about that?" Blondie what did you tell him?!

"I'm the King, I know everything."

"Your Majesty, please," he nearly whined, "I know it doesn't matter- But…" He sighed. "To answer your question- we... We said 'New Dream' to each other 'cause- Her biggest goal in life had just been to figure out what those lights were, the lanterns. That was her dream. Once we were out on the water, she started talking about what else she was going to set as a new goal, her 'new' dream. I… I told her that she was my new dream right before I died, and she-... It means we wanted to be with each other, to..." He choked. "Ya know? And she said I was hers…" Not that it even matters - and he's just gonna think it's so STUPID! He's not even gonna believe that I meant it - That someone like ME could ever-!

"Go on."

"I wanted to marry her," he blurted out, before jumping onto another spiel. "But I brought her back instead. Because she deserves her real family, and you deserved to know she was safe." And as for what I deserved...

"And why did you stay? Why were you there with her on the balcony, when we first met you two out there?"

'Cause stepping away from her in that moment felt like it would be worse than dying… "I just... I got distracted standing there. I was supposed to leave, but I cou- I…." He hummed to shut himself up.

"You got distracted?" he said, unbelieving, "While you were awaiting the person who ordered you hanged?"

His stomach dropped and he gulped. I know… "She wanted me to stay," he said softly, "And I just couldn't leave her. I was sure you'd still have me arrested on sight at the very least, but she- I just couldn't leave her there…" Quietly, he mumbled, "I didn't wanna leave her…"

The King sighed deeply, falling very somber and looked down to the ground between them. "Honestly, Eugene, I do wish you'd have given us more credit, when you did know you were standing there beside the most precious person in the world to us… When we saw her there," He paused, to keep control of his own voice. "My heart soared…"

A deep smile spread across Eugene's face. "And I am so happy she's back with you." He dipped his head in concession with a chuckle, "And if it's any consolation, I did realize, that if you didn't immediately call for every guard to converge on that spot, that you probably weren't going to kill me." He shrugged, "The hug was a surprise."

The King hummed and smiled at him. "Ya know, yesterday, though, I thought you might leave, too..."

"I said I'd help with the investigation," he countered, then shook his head. "And the Captain doesn't bother me that much. As long as I'm still walking and breathing, I'm fine with him."

They chuckled.

"Well, that man is my most trusted advisor. The most loyal I've ever seen. Although he personally doesn't seem to like you too much," he grinned.

Eugene raised a brow at him. "Ya think?"

He chuckled again, "The other night he was just being, overprotective. I'm sorry he's still expecting the worst from you."

Eugene shrugged. "Understandable."

"But, surprised as he seemed, he did tell me, with a deep gratitude of his own though he'd never admit it - how you saved him yesterday."

He shrugged again, frowning. "I mean…"

The King eventually laughed, "Well, thank you for that."

"No problem, I guess." What else was I gonna do?

"So, what would you have done if you and Rapunzel didn't come back here, though?" the King asked.

"Well... That was only an option before she told me she was the princess. I..." He paused and took a deep breath. "I was just... I was gonna take care of her myself. Far from Corona, that's for sure, but only because of me being on the run. I did have the idea to get a real job, but, I woulda done anything for her. I wanted to give her everything. 'Cause I just want her to be happy..."

"You would do anything she told you, wouldn't you?"

He cheered up at that. "Yeah, I guess I would. I'd do anything for her, still."

The King smiled back, staring out into the distance again. "So you stayed because she told you to, and you didn't want to leave her, all because you want her to be happy." He paused, as he idly nodded. "You love her very much, don't you?" his voice strained slightly.

He froze. ...WHAT. His face turned to horror. "Your Majesty?"

"How much do you love her?"

He gulped. I can't though but- I- I can't deny it either. He crumpled. His posture slouched; smile deflated once more. "With all my heart." His choking throat sparked tears to his sinuses.

"Eugene..." The King's hand came down heavy on his shoulder beside him. "You're a good man, and you've obviously got a good heart."

Well… "Thank you, Sir…"

"But now," he squeezed his shoulder, "You listen to me, very carefully, Mr. Fitzherbert."

Eugene suddenly shrank under the touch. Oh no… what…?

"I have another little deal for you."

"A deal?" he instantly blabbered. "Wha-wha-what kinda deal? Ya know, actually, I think I'm done making deals for the time being. Yeah, any further deals are uh, definitely, definitely, NOT happening, so- um, I'm sorry?" He squeaked out the apology. Just let me leave here tomorrow with everything at peace...

The King completely ignored his protest. "So, New Dreams, hm? Well, my dream has always been to see my daughter rule in her own right. But even so, she needs to marry someone-"

"Your Majesty, ah," Eugene fidgeted as he desperately interrupted, unsure of how to properly express his discomfort with this conversation turn, the worst one yet. "With all due respect, I don't- I don't really wanna talk about who the Princess is going to marry, if you don't mind? I mean, I do want to talk to you about her, but I just- I can't. Not that. Please."

"Yes you do. You can and you will," he prattled on.

Eugene felt the hit pierce his heart worse than any others previously, releasing too much emotion at once. "Ah-..." His mouth contorted at nothing, as his reddened eyes blinked back tears, but, his lids overflowed, that only pushed them out to run down his cheeks anyway. He stared into blurry space, speechless at the King's sudden ruthlessness with him, especially his feelings. Whatever you want, Old Man, must you torture me? What, is this revenge for ME getting to spend her eighteenth birthday with her? While you didn't even have her crown to cry over?! -he's been so kind up til now; does he not see my face?! Is this 'cause I made her cry?!

"See now, what if I told you you could marry her?"

OH NO- no no no no no- A small balking sound got stuck in his throat.

"Would you still want to?"

"No." Eugene immediately shook his head and wiped at his eyes. "No, she's the Princess- if I married her she'd lose her claim to the crown. I know that. So I agree it'd be best for everyone if, even if you're doomed to be annexed into that empire, that she should stay in the line of succession. She needs to marry a prince, right?"

The King scrutinized him carefully. "Or any noble."

Eugene rolled his eyes. "I don't recall the nobility around Corona looking too healthy in terms of eligible bachelors."

"Eugene," the King practically groaned, "Where do you think new nobility comes from?"

Eugene squinted in confusion. "Um, a mommy nobility and a daddy nobility?"

The King laughed. "You're funny, too, you know that? But no, no, silly- Appointments! Otherwise we'd have all the same families pairing up with all the same families, and, bagh. However! And, like you said, everyone had been expecting it to come to this anyway..."

As the King blathered on about bureaucracy and paperwork, understanding and awe ever so slowly crept across Eugene's face, as if he were witnessing some mysterious magic overtake him for the first time again, that he did not quite understand. Only this time, he felt less and less easy. The track was laid out before him, revealing a future that could be. Dizziness made his head light, his mouth dried up, breathing shallowed, and stomach plummeted. He listened on, though he feared how his heart pounded faster at the possibilities he imagined this meant - feared for if it was only to see those possibilities crash and burn. No… I can't be understanding this correctly… No… No no no - if it's not then please don't-...

"...called litterae patentes -you'd understand that- bearing my signature and the magistrate's seal, same as your pardon, and then posted the same as any royal proclamation, announced to the farthest reaches of the kingdom, and copies sent to our bordering neighbors. Now,-"

"Prince?" The dangling word finally fell off his lips in a faint daze.

"Yes, now-"

"Are you- are you joking?" he harshly accused him. Don't toy with these emotions, old man...

"No, I'm not jo-"

"You want to make…" he began, then cried out, echoing through the valley below, "'The Kingdom's Greatest Thief' a PRINCE?!"

"Not quite," the King sat back, amused. "Eugene Fitzherbert is who I find perfectly qualified. Your name even with a distant connection helps, your education is excellent, and even your worldly experience is clearly a unique advantage. Most of all, Rapunzel…" He hesitated, awkwardly clearing his throat. "Doesn't want you to leave."

Eugene blinked, now utterly at a loss for how to respond to the regent. "You... trust me?" He could barely get past that idea alone being proven here.

"Eugene," the King quickly began again, more seriously this time, jerking the starstruck man's attention back to his face. "I didn't put you in a state room because there was no other place available - and there's always room in the prison. I didn't let Rapunzel stay with you for no reason; and we've been under no delusions; my wife and I were young once, too. And I didn't ask you to carry everything up here simply for my convenience, nor because you're a strapping young man."

Eugene looked down around himself. They had left the others over an hour ago, at the base of even this small mountain. And Eugene now carried the entirety of their weapons: both rifles, most of the ammo, the bow set, a large jewel-handled hunting knife in a sheath attached to his belt, two swords, as well as a set of skinning knives and tools in his pouch. The King, on the other hand, held no visible weapons. Perhaps he kept a concealed knife or few, but Eugene also was familiar enough with his government to assume that his king had never had anything more than formal lessons, and probably in something like fencing at that.

Eugene wanted to scream, but he had no breath. He was unable to even articulate a thought in his head. He just wanted to scream. From the moment he had been spotted on the balcony, he knew he had been being carefully watched, his every move and word under suspicion. But also…

He remembered his shock at the regal suite he had been shown to.

He remembered his confusion at Rapunzel being allowed to stay with him there.

He remembered being grilled for her whereabouts when he showed up at his office the next morning.

He remembered the Captain "accidentally," calling him "Sir."

He remembered being caught making out on the terrace, with no consequence.

He remembered the King's utmost concern over whatever was wrong with his dinner last night.

Now the King had set up the ultimate test of trustworthiness, supposedly betting his own life, and he had passed. But he had not even realized it was happening.

The King laughed at the horrified expression stuck on his newly adopted heir's face.

"Sir, I..." Words still eluded him. He dropped off the boulder where had sat, down to both knees as he turned back, throwing himself down on all fours so hard, his bangs brushed the floor of dead leaves and dirt. Groveling here, he next thought he might cry again, overwhelmed at the trust shown to him, overcome at the mere thought of holding her in his arms- and being allowed to do so- let alone for the rest of their lives, with a whole family. "I don't know what to say," he gasped like a fish out of water, "This is- this is everything..." I'll screw it up. He'll take it back. "You can't-"

"Listen," the King reached down to his shoulder, prompting him to lift his head. "When you're ready, you may, re-propose to Rapunzel. If she says yes, then in 3 months we'll have a joint coronation. Another 3 and you'll be married. My wife and I like you well enough young man, but we are trying to remain pragmatic as well. Obviously, those months are time for you to prove yourself further, for you two to get to know each other better- better than, honestly, a whirlwind romance. To ensure you both still want this. A little under a week, even full of adventure and, bold proclamations, is hardly prudent for any of us to be making such brash decisions from concerning the future of this entire kingdom. And a title is just as easy to create as it is to erase; a marriage is not, you know."

"Yes..." he breathed mechanically. "Yes, Sir. I..." I still don't believe it... But it was starting to hit him. "I can marry Rapunzel?" he asked, still with a dazed tone of confusion and disbelief.

The King beamed sweetly. "If she says yes, then, yes, my boy."

"And she'd remain Crown Princess- and I'd be..."

"Crown Prince."

His stomach flipped. "You really mean this?"

"You'll have job duties, responsibilities, and still a lot more to learn. But someday, you'll have King, too, to live up to, as well, you know."

"The next..." his head spun, light and dizzying. "That's nothing, I'd do anything- I'd do anything if I could just stay with her-" He clutched at his chest, trying to get ahold of himself. "Oh my God... Dah, thank you! Thank you! Thank you so much, oh my God, I- I could never really thank you enough, or ever hope to repay you for this- I- I dun-"

"You- You know..." he chuckled, "That's exactly how I felt when we saw you two standing there on that balcony. You brought our baby home. And, made no difference who you were, I knew I could never truly express my gratitude and relief. You tell us you killed the witch what took her, then bring her home and want practically nothing in return- save your own life- and it was only because you accidentally stuck around her too long?" He chuckled past a tear. "You've ruined your whole Flynn Rider reputation!"

Eugene laughed weakly. He's right. And thank God for that! "I love her-" he continually gasped, trying to remember how to breathe all along, "I told you my whole history before, I've been a cad- but I do know what love is, and I know I love her. This has been different with her- she's different. I just want what's best for her. I just want her to be happy. Even if it wasn't with me- I tried to set her up for- oh, God..." Tonight, we were supposed to…

"What is it?"

"I've gotta tell her. Right away. Before we left, we were arguing about how she wanted me to stay longer and I kept telling her I couldn't-" He choked, feeling a rush of adrenaline to seize this moment, and everything about it. I can't wait- our life is actually beginning! Our- OUR LIFE! "Oh my God..." All those short-lived dreams of their own family came flooding back. Waking up to her every morning, their child in his arms, her holding him through the night, and every day, all day, never needing to deny or hide or downplay their affections. Blondie- my wife?! WIFE! Kickass wife who saved my life how many times? That's gonna be my wife!

In front of him, the King's hands were clasped before him, between his knees as he leaned over. Eugene ventured to grab his right hand. "Sir," he said solemnly, "I won't let you down. I've never wanted anything before like how I want to stay with her."

"I've no doubt you'll keep her happy. And I do believe you'll make Corona proud. I see you, Eugene. And I think you would make a fine son."

What a BLESSING! No he's left blessings behind in the dust! He's- He's- He's hand picking me as an heir?! ME! HEIR! His heart began skipping beats. The first thing I ever wanted- my family back- To be a family again- A locked away part of him, that had only just drifted to the surface when he saw Rapunzel reunited with her parents, that part of him now exploded forth with an internal desperate shout. An ache shot through him and tears pierced his eyes anew; but these were not unknown feelings. He clasped both hands over his mouth. Streams burst down his burning cheeks, freely bawling from the wellspring of an 8-year old little boy all alone in a great big world. 'A fine SON.' To the KING. He lifted his face to him; the sun through the canopy of trees behind him irradiating the silver in the old man's hair, and crowning him with natural rays of light. Wrinkles in his weathered face pulled back a soft, sympathetic smile. The gold chain glinted, sparkling his teal eyes. Eugene squinted up toward the shining light, the tears around his lids further twinkling his vision. His mouth twisted open in half a smile, half a tortured frown. "You WANT me?!" Every blink pushed out more tears; everything was too bright; his pulse boomed in his ears.

"Oh Eugene," the King sighed, but most tenderly this time as he opened his arms up to him. "Come here." Eugene instantly shot up, and thrust himself forward into the King's waiting arms, and suddenly 18 years melted off both their shoulders and minds. He buried his tearful face in his chest, clutching at his back. The king hugged him back just as strongly. "I know that I couldn't ask for a better man for Rapunzel."

Eugene coughed as he grinned and sniffled and chuckled. But he quickly remembered all the trouble and possible harm he had caused this same man and his people. "I'm sorry," he burst, "I'm so sorry for everything. I was stupid and selfish but I just wanted-" His voice ceased, unable to voice the root of all his desires, both old and new alike. "I just wanted someone to..."

The King gently left the embrace, but held his arms, which Eugene locked with his as well as they faced each other again. He looked down at this as-of-recent-former criminal, now weeping at these graces. He studied his deep brown eyes, now puffy and red all around. "You spent 8 years at that orphanage. Another 10 on the run. You just wanted someone to take you home."

Eugene winced as another sob tore through him, and he nodded. Yes... It wasn't EVEN just love or acceptance... I just wanted to go HOME! But... there was no home anymore... So if I couldn't have a real home, I wanted to just be left alone... He gripped the King's arms tighter for a moment, nodding pitifully. Now I not only get to stay with Rapunzel, but I get her parents and a real home with all of them?! Finally he eased off and released his new father figure and father-in-law-hopeful. He sat back on his knees and wiped his face and leveled his breathing, collecting himself back together amid sighs and chuckles.

"There is really only one stipulation I have," the King explained.

Eugene gave his full attention once more. "Done. Anything. Name it. Whatever it is, I'll do anything."

The King smirked at his enthusiasm. "I still mean it that I want Rapunzel to rule. So I want you, to let her take charge. But given what we've seen of you two thus far, I doubt that should be an issue."

Eugene chuckled to the side and smirked as well. "No, sir, that won't be an issue."

"Good then," he nodded. More sternly, he continued. "Guide her. Advise her. Support her. Listen to her. You'll be there to help her, but you will also be on your own sometimes. You follow her wishes. Defer to her, and let her have the last say."

Eugene kept nodding throughout the litany. "Yes, sir."

"I've no qualms about appointing you Crown Prince, rather than merely a consort- uh, you do understand the difference, don't you?"

"A consort is only there to produce heirs. The crown can't pass to them."

"Basically. At least not until much, much farther down the line of succession. But with inheritance laws as they are here in Corona, I feel this is actually a safer route. And I couldn't do anything about those without upsetting half the kingdom or more, so, this way you don't hold her back from claiming her right, and we immediately have two heirs rather than none. With the bloodline heir betrothed, to another of ours, we're locked in and safe. No marriage alliance necessary. We all get to keep what we want." The King looked him in his astonished eyes very carefully. "However, I will warn you, just before we left, she told me she wanted to abdicate. For you."

"I know," Eugene said calmly. "She's been saying that. So…" If she still wants to marry me, but not be Princess - then that means no Princehood for me. Alright then, whatever! "But you'd be fine with letting her abdicate?"

"After the life I've given her so far, how could I say no?"

It wasn't- He sighed and nodded. "I understand. So it's whatever she wants."

"Exactly. But if I give her you, she seems like she may be more inclined to stay. Anyway, if she does accept... and IF, God forbid, something were to happen to Rapunzel, the throne would still pass to you. Alone." He glared at him preemptively.

The impossible scenario was forced through his mind, but he simultaneously lined it up with when something had happened to Rapunzel's hair. He sighed heavily. "Actually, Sir, I don't think I physically can outlive Rapunzel. I'm pretty sure." Given what we saw happen to Gothel, if anything ever happened to her… He gulped.

"What's that?" he asked, perplexed.

"Gothel was using Rapunzel's hair to stay young. When I cut it, she aged instantly. So much so, that," he cringed, "I don't think there was much left of her. So, since I'M only alive because of Rapunzel herself somehow, then…" Wow, hadn't thought of it like that before… Yikes. His arms tucked in, wrapped around his torso.

"Hm, well then," he smirked, "I know someone who will be happy to hear about that entanglement."

Eugene stared at him, til he finally put it together and laughed. "THIS is what you and the Captain were talking about yesterday morning?!"

"And you were still skittish enough that we figured you really hadn't heard anything," he chuckled back.

"Clearly not, because I never expected this, but, I did hear you say… that Rapunzel was safest with me."

"And she is," he nodded, turning wistful again. "I am, so happy you found each other… You've protected her, so much more than I ever have or could…" He hung his head.

"Sir…" Eugene gasped, startled at his words, tone, and at how he could not help but notice the King himself was bowing his head in front of him, even if it was out of emotion.

"I've almost lost every good thing that ever happened to me: almost lost my wife in childbirth, lost that child anyway for so long that she's an adult now, almost - could still - lose my kingdom... I won't stand by and lose her again, or let the same thing happen to her. I lost her... Now you've found her, and she's so in love with you. How could I deny her that? How could I deny her anything?" He shook his head. "She doesn't owe me anything."

Eugene followed the grave mood, but was much more optimistic. "Sir, you saved the Queen with that flower. It wasn't your fault Rapunzel was taken. And now with this… You'll save both of us, too. I'll do whatever I can, and, if this all works out, we'll save the whole kingdom. Corona can keep its independence, keep its other alliances. But it's still only because you're allowing this-"

"Bah," the King dismissed, "We owe it all to you."

"Sir," he immediately protested, "She had a pretty big hand in 'rescuing' herself, too, ya know. More than me, I'd say."

The King sighed, having no choice but to accept his insistence. "Still… You both know… Almost losing the love of your life? That's one torch I never wanted to pass down." He shook his head. "And I won't let the past destroy her future. Not anymore."

Suddenly Eugene realized his position in this new light of the King's perspective. He'd do anything for her, too… Like… Letting me stay with her… forever… No matter what else I'd done in my own past. A soft smile grew on him.

"I know you'll take care of her, and she'll take care of you. If you're both important enough to each other, I know you'll fight for it."

"We are," Eugene automatically replied, and that smile bloomed all over him. "We have fought for each other. And we'll fight for this, too, now."

The King nodded, then tried to follow him in lightening the mood as he chuckled. "See, I told you, you wanted to hear about who the Princess is going to marry."

Eugene laughed back, at himself, and at the whole of the past few days.

"And I, uh," the King glanced away, "Suppose I hardly have to tell you, to not break her heart, or to treat her well, love her and all that…"

"No, no, " Eugene chuckled more, "Of course, Sir." He wiped his eyes clear at last, sniffled his breathing back to normal, and rubbed down his face, checking to make sure this was all real.

"You do owe her an apology for this morning."

Through a laugh, he closed his eyes and nodded. "Yes, I do."

"And of course, please, do not pressure her to accept the crown. She wasn't expecting this life, so, it'll still be alright if she refuses the crown but wants you. We'll see you two taken care of regardless."

He nodded. "Of course, Sir."

"Good, good."

Eugene sighed deeply, relaxing right where he sat at the King's feet, exhausted. "Ya know…" He soon zoned back out into space, going over everything. "My parents are dead. I have no family. No one ever wanted to adopt me. I carry a bastard's name. I just wanted to cash in the crown and be left alone on an island forever. But then I found her… She was like a ray of sunshine in a dark cruel world... I had to protect that. I had to help her." He shook his head and lowered his gaze, his wispy voice crackling again. "But once she told me she'd figured out she was the princess, I never thought, in a million yeeears, that I'd… That you'd let ME…" He gasped under his breath, "Me…"

The King chuckled at his state again. "You know, I didn't take you for the hunting type anyway."

Eugene's attention darted up as he switched tracks again, only this time he at least knew to suspect there was more to this comment. "Well, small game, for when you're-"

"Do you want to head back right now?"

His eyes snapped to his with a sudden deep breath. "Yes."

The King simply laughed more.

They both got up, and took one more gaze out at the scenery.

"I'll, uh," Eugene blushed and bit his lip, "I'll have to bring Rapunzel back here sometime. She'd love this view, and the whole hike and all…"

He did not notice the King beaming at him.

Like an overeager puppy, Eugene nearly ran down the mountain, but, impatient as he was, he did make sure to wait for the King to catch up every so often.

Eugene was first to re-emerge from the trail, clearly on cloud 9, to find the guards and Captain all relaxing in various areas of shade. He walked right up to the Captain.

"Well?" he growled first as he stood up.

"You bastard!" Eugene laughed and pointed at him as a jesting accusation. "You knew this all along!"

The Captain could not help but groan, and smirk, and laugh, while shaking his head. He looked past Eugene, though, to the King behind him. "Is he always going to be this insufferable?"

"Probabl-" the King began, chuckling himself.

But Eugene spoke up over him, teasingly getting right in the Captain's face with a smolder. "Aw, just for you, Sweetcheeks, I will."

"HEY," the Captain shouted, though still grinning, "You ain't shit YET."

Feeling a strange new offense, Eugene was taken aback, smirking, and looked to the King to back him up-

But the King was chuckling as well, and nodded to them both. "He's right."

Eugene pouted and frowned, but began unloading the equipment he carried. As he did, his collar pulled aside.

It caught the Captain's eye and he laughed again, harshly. "Heh, though I guess you really do have nothing to worry about, loverboy."

What the-? Eugene looked back to him, strangely confused.

The Captain pointed to the same spot on his own neck.

Eugene mirrored him, suddenly feeling the faintest bruise, and remembering that morning. The rest of him paled, except for that purple spot under his fingers. Blooondiiieee! Mortified, he stomped back over to Max, while both the Captain and King continued laughing, and he could swear he could feel the stares and smirks from the rest of the guards.

"Ohhh, and besides, come on now," the King chided, "She's already said 'yes' once, hasn't she?"

Eugene plopped down in his saddle - and blanched yet again. "How'd you…?"

The King directed his horse alongside his again, to lead them all back out, while he stared him down with a smirk.

Eugene turned red, tucking his head down to hide his blush, and hickey. But he could not hide his grin. Blondie…! I have no idea what else we're getting into, but we're gonna get that Dream!

...it's living that takes courage.

A.N.: Like I said, NOT writing according to requests! This has been the plan all along! You who wanted a fight, or the proposal already - you just happened to guess correctly.

Also, just, forgive me for whatever impossibilities anyone may think of with the succession rules. I did do research, but I do not know exactly what would fly in real life way back whenever. I do know what the series said, & what assumptions have been with canon being "Prince Consort," but this is neither the series universe nor canon. I mean, we've all seen more outlandish or nonsensical things. He's the King so he can do whatever he wants, & this is just a fanfic. Plus it's mine, and this is the way I need things set up. So, go with me here.

Follow me as MiraNova23 on tumblr at .com for Tangled Fandom Resurrection, messaging, keeping up with what's going on in my life, how the writing's going, my other fanworks, lots of Chuck vs Tangled, and all-around general Disnerdiness.