Many years ago in the Enchanted Forest, Lady Tremaine and her daughters Tisbe and Clorinda were heading out for a ball at the Royal Palace. As the three of them settled into their carriage, a young girl dressed rags and covered in cinders watched miserably as they rode off. From the garden of the humble homestead, the girl could see the fireworks going off from the castle signifying the start of the grand ball. Before she could sink too far into despair, a comforting voice spoke to her.
"Do not despair, my dear. You shall go to the ball."
The girl turned and saw a beautiful fairy with chocolate skin and a golden dress descending towards her.
"Who are you?" the girl asked.
The fairy then glowed for a second before growing to the size of a normal woman. She gave a small shake, tucking in her wings before summoning her wand.
"I'm your Fairy Godmother," she explained, giving the girl a kind, gentle smile, "and I'm here to change your life, Ella."
"But… my stepmother told me I couldn't go. She forbade me to leave."
"If there's one thing I've learned, it's that even the toughest of problems can be lessened with just a little bit of magic." The Fairy Godmother gave a small swish of her wand. "With it, you'll have a chance to go to the ball, and truly change your-"
All of a sudden, the Fairy Godmother exploded, much to Ella's horror. She let out a scream, stumbling back as none other than Rumplestiltskin came out of nowhere, picking up the fallen wand.
"Dark One!" Another voice called out, causing Ella to turn and see Nicholette stalking towards Rumple, "Did you just kill a fairy in front of this poor girl?!"
"As a matter of fact, I did," Rumplestiltskin confirmed. "She doesn't seem to mind, do you dearie?"
"Do I mind?" Ella let out. "You just killed my Fairy Godmother! She was trying to help me!"
"Honestly, Rumple," Nicholette sighed irritably, "I'm well aware that you hate the fairies, but to outright kill one… it's like you're trying to get the entire Fairy Coven against you."
"Like they aren't already," Rumple retorted. "Besides, I was doing uh…" He paused for a moment before pointing right at Ella, "Cinderella here a favor. You heard what that fairy said." He put on a mocking tone as he began to imitate the fairy. "'All you need is a little magic'. Lies. All magic comes with a price."
"I'll pay it," Ella insisted, turning to the pair desperately. "I'll pay any price to be free of this wretched life."
Rumplestiltskin perked slightly and Nicolette was instantly in panic mode, turning to Ella desperately.
"Trust me, you do not want that path, not with him. Just be grateful for what you have."
Ella let out a combination of a sob and a bitter chuckle.
"What I have? I have nothing. I'm a slave in my own home, forced to eat scraps, and have every chance of a happy ending ripped from me by my vile step-family. There's nothing for me here, and I have nothing left to lose."
"Nothing to lose and everything to gain," Rumple noted, stepping forward while twirling the ill gotten wand in his fingers. "That's my favorite kind of customer. I'll be happy to make your dreams come true… provided you do a little favor for me in return."
"Ella, do not listen to him," Nicholette begged. "You don't need magic to change your life."
"No!" Ella snapped. "For once in my life, I am going to do what I want! You won't tell me what to do!"
"Well then," Rumple spoke, snapping his fingers and summoning a contract out of midair. "Do we have a deal?"
Ella nodded, taking a quill pen from Rumple. Nicholette could only watch as she was quick to sign the contract, not even bother to read it. Rumple gave the alchemist a triumphant smirk as he let the girl use his back to write. Once it was signed, Rumple took the contract and waved the wand.
"Bibbidi. Bobbidi. Boo."
Ella's rags were transformed into a beautiful blue ball gown, her hair cleaned and done up, and every trace of cinders gone from her face. Ella was in awe of her new look, then noticed a pair of glass slippers resting just in front of her.
"Glass slippers?" Ella questioned.
"Every story needs a memorable detail," Rumple answered.
Ella quickly put on the shoes, smiling widely.
"Thank you," she told Rumple. "Thank you so much."
"Go have a good time, dearie. Go change your life. I'll come around later for my price." He turned to walk away, then paused. "Oh, and keep an eye on the clock. The magic only lasts until midnight!"
In Storybrooke, Emma was walking Henry down the street towards the school bus.
"You sure it's safe for us to be out in the open like this?" Henry asked.
"I'm walking you to the school bus. If your mom wants to pitch a stink about it, I'll gladly have that talk with her."
"You're brave. You're gonna need that for Operation Cobra. Speaking of, do you think we need code names?"
"Codenames?"
"Yeah. Like Miss Flemming. I'm calling her 'The Alchemist'."
"Because of who she is in your book?"
"Think it's too obvious?"
"A bit, yeah. How about just… 'Eve'. And you can use 'Emma' for my codename."
"Alright, 'Emma'," Henry replied, getting on the bus. "I'll see you later."
As the bus drove off, Emma started to walk off. She was halted though when the Sheriff's car pulled in front of her, the siren popping on for a hot second as the Sheriff flagged her down. She watched as Graham got out, approaching her.
"Am I under arrest again?" Emma questioned.
"Just wanted to get your attention," Graham replied. "And to thank you for your help with the John Doe case. We all owe you for that."
"Just doing what I could to help. No need to thank me or whatever. I highly doubt the mayor will be offering me any keys to the city anytime soon."
"Perhaps not, but I am offering you something. A job."
Emma perked up, completely caught off guard. She blinked, looking at Graham like a deer in the headlights.
"A job?"
"Could use a deputy."
"Thank you… but I have a job.
"As a bail bondsperson? There's not much of that going on here."
"I don't see a lot of sheriffing going on around here either."
Graham let out a lighthearted chuckle at the small jibe, taking it in stride.
"Well, here's your chance to see it up close. There's dental."
Emma chuckled a little herself at that remark as Graham pulled out a card to hand to her.
"Why don't you think about it and stay awhile."
…
At Granny's, Eve sat at a booth in the corner, stirring a cup of white hot chocolate as Emma came in. She sat down, still looking at Sheriff Graham's card as Eve pushed a hot cocoa with cinnamon towards her.
"What's that?" Eve asked.
"A card Graham gave me," Emma replied, sipping on the cocoa. "He offered me a job."
"Did he now? And…"
"I haven't accepted yet."
"But you're thinking about it."
Before Emma could answer, Regina's voice chimed in.
"Of course she's not," the mayor declared, approaching the table and sitting down.
"Madame Mayor," Eve greeted. "To what do we owe this unexpected interruption?"
"I was just passing by, and came across Miss Swan walking down the street with my son."
Emma raised an eyebrow at that.
"Relax, I don't mind," Regina reassured.
"You don't?" Emma questioned.
"Because you no longer worry me, Ms. Swan. You see I did a little digging into who you are, and what I found out was quite soothing. It all comes down to the number seven."
"Seven?" Eve repeated.
"The number of addresses Miss Swan has had in the last decade. The longest of which was two years. What did you enjoy so much about Talahasse, anyway?"
"Doesn't matter," Emma replied dismissively. "I've actually found a place here in town."
"You did?" Eve let out, surprised. "Congratulations."
"From what I've heard, she's merely staying with Miss Blanchard," Regina told her before turning back to Emma. "How long is your lease there, exactly? Oh wait. You don't have one. You see my point? In order for something to grow Ms. Swan, it needs roots, and you don't have any. People don't change, they only fool themselves into believing they can."
"You don't know me," Emma retorted.
"No, I think I do," Regina threw back. "All I ask as you carry on your transient life, you think about Henry and what's best for him. Perhaps consider a clean break. It's going to happen anyway. Enjoy your cocoa."
She got up, knocking the table hard enough that both women ended up getting their cocoa all over themselves.
"Really?" Emma let out.
"On the bright side, it wasn't scalding," Eve pointed out.
"Yeah, now we just have to worry about wearing chocolate stains all day."
"Actually, there's a laundromat not far from here. We can go there and clean up. I'll spot the quarters."
"Thanks."
…
After popping by Intrinsic things for some quarters and some special soap, Emma and Eve walked into the Storybrooke laundromat. Once they found an open washing machine, they threw in their stained clothes and tossed in some of Eve's soap.
"What's that stuff? It doesn't look like detergent."
"It's a special soap blend I created. It gets rid of any and all stains without harming the clothing's natural color. Took me a while to get the formula right."
"Nice."
"Think… think I could use some?" a voice from across the laundromat asked.
Both ladies looked up, seeing a young maid named Ashley standing in front of one of the machines. Eve immediately recognized her as none other than Ella, the poor girl standing over a set of pink sheets and looking absolutely miserable.
"What's wrong?" Emma asked.
"The sheets… there supposed to be white."
Eve approached with the soap as Ashley lowered the sheets, revealing a heavily pregnant stomach. Emma straightened at the sight, knowing that the maid wasn't far from her due date.
"Last night, I felt contractions," Ashley spoke, noting Emma's staring. "The doctor said the baby could come any day."
"That's… great," Emma replied.
"It's just that, um, when the... when the baby comes... no one thinks I can do this. No one thinks I can do anything. Maybe they're right."
Eve paused for a moment as she finished restarting Ashley's sheets, feeling a pang of sympathy for the girl. Emma felt more than a pang, her hand slamming on the start button of the washer before she crossed her arms.
"Screw 'em," she declared.
"What?" Ashley replied.
"Screw them," Emma repeated. "How old are you?"
"Nineteen."
"I was eighteen."
Ashley was taken aback by that.
"When… you had a kid?"
"Yeah. I know what it's like. Everyone loves to tell you what you can and can't do especially with a kid, but ultimately whatever you're considering doing... or giving up... the choice is yours."
Eve leaned against the washer, shocked by this sudden change in Emma's behavior. Ashley was in a similar state, eyes glued to Emma as she struggled to find her words.
"It's not exactly what you might think it is," Ashley replied.
"It never is. People are going to tell you who you are your whole life. You just gotta punch back and say, 'No, this is who I am.' You want people to look at you differently? Make them. You want to change things you are going to have to go out there and change them yourself because there are no Fairy Godmothers in this world."
Ashley was left stunned, Emma's words shaking her to her core. Eve was equally speechless, and mildly impressed.
…
That night, Mr. Gold was closing up his shop for the evening, locking up and preparing to head for home. As he walked off, Ashley came slipping out of a back alley, approaching the shop. She had a rock in her hand, which she used to smash a window on the door. Once an opening was available, she stuck her arm through and opened the door, allowing herself entry. She went inside, making a beeline towards the main counter. There, she began searching drawers and cabinets, growing more and more frantic. Finally, she looked up at a painting on the wall behind the counter. Taking a chance, she felt along the frame until she found that it swung open like a door, revealing a safe.
"Ashley," Mr. Gold's voice cut through the silence.
Ashley jumped, turning around to see Mr Gold just standing there. The expression on his face wasn't one she recognized, or possessed the ability to read. The closest comparison she could make was surprise.
"What are you doing here?" he asked, moving closer to her.
Ashley took a step back, slipping something into her hand as her resolve hardened.
"Changing my life," she declared before spraying him in the face with a can of mace.
Gold cried out in pain as he stumbled back, bumping into a shelf before falling to the ground. He laid there, groaning in pain and barely conscious. Ashley dropped the now useless can, grabbing at a ring of keys on Gold's belt and turning to the safe to claim her prize.
…
The next morning, Regina was standing in front of a mirror, checking her hair and make-up before heading out. Henry was sitting at the breakfast table, a bowl of cheerios sitting in front of him as he watched his adoptive mother get ready.
"I know you think otherwise," She told him. "but I don't enjoy these Saturday city council meetings. Sometimes they're just unavoidable. Now, you know the rules."
Henry sighed, reciting the mantra he'd had drilled into his head years ago.
"Yes on homework, no on TV, and don't leave the house."
"Good boy. Under no circumstances are you to go outside. There's leftover lasagna in the fridge if you're hungry, and I'll be home in time for dinner."
"Meaning no going to Granny's to see my mom."
"Henry, we've been over this. She's not your mother. She's just a woman who's passing through." Regina grabbed her purse, practically stalking towards the door. "I'll be home at 5 sharp, and if you disobey me, there will be consequences."
Henry nodded as she turned to leave. He stayed seated until she walked out the door and closed it behind her. He counted to ten, then quickly grabbed his jacket and scarf, snagging his backpack as well before taking off out the back door.
…
At Mary Margaret's apartment, Emma was bringing in the last of her stuff, with Eve following close behind.
"All of your stuff fits into two boxes?" Eve questioned. "Are you certain there's not more coming?"
"No, this is it," Emma told her. "I've never been sentimental."
"Well..." Mary Margaret remarked as she brought some sandwiches over to the two women, "at least it makes moving less of a chore."
"Very true," Emma replied, taking the sandwich. "Thanks."
"Yes, thank you Mary Margaret," Eve added, taking a sandwich for herself.
Before they could enjoy the sandwiches, there was a knock at the door.
"Expecting company?" Eve wondered.
"No…" Mary Margaret replied curiously.
She went to the door and opened it, finding Mr. Gold standing before her.
"Hello Miss Blanchard," he greeted. "Is Miss Swan here?"
Eve went rigid at the sound of Gold's voice, causing her to crush the sandwich in her grip. Emma took notice of her discomfort, rising to her feet and approaching the door.
"Ah, Miss Swan," Gold replied as she came into view. "Glad I found you. I have a proposition for you. I, uh… need your help."
"Is that right?" Eve noted, gaining Gold's attention.
"Miss Flemming, what a surprise. I wasn't expecting to run into you today."
"I was lending Emma a hand," Eve said in a tone that was half defensive, half accusatory. "What are you doing here?"
"I think I…" Mary Margaret spoke up, feeling it best not to be part of this situation. "I think I'll go pop in the bath."
She quickly retreated, leaving the trio to talk.
"I'm looking for someone," Gold continued, pulling a photo out of his jacket. "Her name is Ashley Boyd, and she's stolen something quite precious from me."
Eve felt her stomach bottom out, and Emma just took the photo, recognizing it as an image of the maid she'd met in the laundromat.
"If you're looking for her, why not go to the police?" she questioned.
"Because Gold always tries to find loopholes around the law," Eve sneered.
"Hardly," Gold replied. "She's a confused young woman. She's pregnant, alone, and scared. I don't want to ruin this young girl's life, but I just want my property returned."
"And what exactly did she take?" Emma asked.
"Like he'll tell you," Eve snorted.
"That is one of the added benefits of Miss Swan not being the police," Mr. Gold acknowledged. "Discretion. Let's just say it's a precious object, and leave it at that."
Emma nodded, tucking the photo into her jacket.
"Alright, I'll do what I can. When was the last time you saw her?"
"Last night. It's how I got this." he pointed to the gash on his forehead. "It's so unlike her. She was quite wound up, rambling on and on about changing her life. I have not idea what got into her. Ms. Swan, please just help me find her. My only other choice is the police, and I don't think anyone wants to see that baby born in jail, now do they?"
Emma's entire body straightened, that same stubbornness from the day before returning in full force.
"No, they don't."
"I knew I could count on you. Well, I'll leave you to it then."
As Mr. Gold turned to leave, the door opened and Henry entered.
"Hey Emma, I was thinking we…" he spoke, getting cut off at the sight of Mr. Gold.
"Hey Henry," Mr. Gold greeted. "How are you?"
"I'm okay..." he replied after a minute, clearly nervous.
"Good. Give my regards to your mother, and…" he turned back to Emma. "Good luck, Miss Swan."
With that, Mr. Gold left, closing the door on the three of them.
"Do you know who that is?" Henry asked, approaching them.
"Yeah, of course we do," Emma confirmed, unloading her boxes.
"Really?" Henry asked. "I'm still trying to figure that out."
"Who he is, Henry, is someone you do not want to cross," Eve told him. "His heart is one of the darkest ones I have ever had the displeasure of witnessing."
"Yikes," Emma let out. "Sounds like you two have a history."
"You might say that. I've known Mr. Gold far longer than anyone else, and while I have tried my best to sway him from his chosen path, it has been for naught."
"Well, it looks like Ashely decided on a different path," Emma muttered. "You know this town, and its people, better than I do. Think you can help me find her?"
"I will do what I can," Eve promised.
"Thanks," Emma replied before turning to Henry. "Sorry kid, gotta go."
"But I can help!" Henry offered as Emma and Eve went out.
"Go home, kid!" Emma insisted. "We'll do Operation Cobra another day."
…
Henry's stubbornness forced him to follow the two women into the street towards Emma's bug.
"Please let me help," he insisted.
"No, it could be dangerous," Emma shot down.
"The pregnant maid is dangerous?"
"She's desperate," Eve informed him. "And desperate people will do crazy, stupid things, especially when a child is involved."
"Then let's find her," Henry suggested.
"No no no," Emma pressed as they got to the car. "There's no 'lets'. You cannot come with us."
"Besides, your mother will no doubt be looking for you, and explaining why you're helping us chase down Ashley will hinder us from actually chasing her down," Eve rationalized.
"My mom's not gonna be home until five, and if you don't invite me along, I'll just go looking for her myself," Henry argued.
"Then I'll find you and I'll bring you back," Emma challenged.
"Then you wouldn't be helping the maid," Henry retorted.
"Henry, we're just trying to be responsible here," Eve tried.
"And I'm just trying to spend time with my mom."
Both women were stunned for a moment as Henry climbed into the backseat of the bug. Eve then let out a chuckle, then shrugged.
"I'm afraid he's got us there."
"I know," Emma relented as they got into the bug. "And I kinda hate it.
"So the maid, what's her story?" Henry asked.
It had been almost a year since the fateful ball that changed Ella's life. Where she had once been little more than a slave in her own home, she was now a newly wedded princess of a kingdom. Standing on the castle balcony, Ella looked out at the fireworks dancing in the sky, the light reflecting in her eyes and her smile. As she watched them, her new husband, Prince Thomas, came up behind her, placing a warm hand on her back.
"Is something the matter, my love?" he asked.
Ella shook her head, her smile never faltering.
"No. I was just remembering."
"Oh?"
"Every year when I was growing up, I used to watch these fireworks from afar. And I knew what they meant: Something special was happening at the palace. Now they're for me, for our wedding."
The two then leaned into one another, sharing a kiss.
...
Down in the ballroom, Ella and Thomas entered and were greeted with joyous applause from all in attendance. Among those in attendance were the King, Prince Thomas' father, Snow White and Prince Charming. The two princesses embraced happily as the King clapped Thomas on the back proudly.
"I'm so glad you could make it," Ella revelled.
"We wouldn't miss it for anything," Snow replied. "You look beautiful, by the way."
"And this time, the gown won't disappear at midnight."
The two girls laughed at the inside joke.
"My dear Ella, we are thrilled to have you join our family," The King declared, "and I hope our family will soon be growing."
Music soon began filling the room, prompting everyone to begin dancing. Thomas and Ella took to the floor, dancing and sashaying happily. As they danced, Ella spotted a familiar golden silhouette standing off to the side. She blinked, looking again to see Nicholette watching her. She was wearing a golden dress with long sleeves, her amulet resting on her chest and her hair done in an intricate braid with golden thread interwoven into it. She sipped on some of the offered champagne, merely observing everything. Ella carefully broke off from Thomas, approaching the Alchemist.
"You..." she called out, gaining Nicholette's attention.
"Ah, Princess Ella," she greeted. "Congratulations on your wedding. I imagine you and your beloved will be quite happy."
"Quite… I should apologize for how I treated you back then."
"I bear you no ill will, your highness," Nicholette assured her. "You were a desperate girl, and I have seen where that road leads far too many times. I just hope that when the time comes, you will be content with how your story ends."
"As do I."
Both instantly froze up, turning to see Rumplestiltskin standing before them in a golden suit of his own.
"Because your ending has just arrived, my dear."
He held out his hand for Ella, who hesitantly took it. Nicolette clenched her hand around her champagne glass, but knew there was nothing she could do in this moment. Thus, she could only watch as the pair made their way onto the dancefloor.
"What are you doing here?" Ella demanded.
"Just making sure you're enjoying your end of our little deal," Rumple replied. "True love. Happiness. Seems like you got everything you ever wanted. Am I right?"
"... yes. So, what's your price? My jewels? The ring?"
"No, my dear. You can keep your bobbles. What I want...is something you don't yet possess, but I know is coming…" He leaned in close, whispering in her ear. "Your firstborn child."
He then twirled her out onto the dance floor, only for him to vanish as soon as Ella regained her composure.
…
Several nights later, Ella still had not forgotten the words of Nicholette, nor Rumplestiltskin's price. Unfortunately for her, time was no longer on her side, the princess rubbing her belly as she packed up her belongings. As she did, Thomas came in, surprised to see his princess packing.
"What are you doing?" he asked, startling her.
"I thought you went hunting," Ella responded.
"The weather wasn't agreeing so we came back early. Are we going somewhere?" When Ella didn't answer, everything clicked. "You're going somewhere."
Ella nodded, her emotions threatening to make themselves known.
"Something happened..." she all but whispered.
"What is it?"
"... I'm pregnant."
Thomas was shocked, and a grin quickly spread across his face as he rushed to his beloved's side.
"Ella, that's wonderful!" he declared before noticing the miserable expression on her face. "Why are you upset? This is what we wanted."
"There is something else… when we met that night at the ball, it wasn't my Fairy Godmother who sent me. It was Rumplestiltskin. The lady in gold warned me about trusting him, but I didn't listen. And now…"
"Rumplestiltskin… what did he ask of you?"
"I thought it would be something like gold or jewels. I didn't understand the price of-"
"Ella." Thomas reached out, taking Ella into his arms as he tried to calm her. "What did he ask of you?"
Ella just held her stomach, telling Thomas all he needed to know.
"Our baby?"
Ella broke down, tears flowing down her face.
"I'm so sorry… I was selfish and desperate, and now I'm going to lose our child… and you..."
"No," Thomas declared, kneeling down to her and taking her hand. "I don't care what that imp said. Magic may have brought us together, but it didn't create our love."
"But I can't break this deal. He's too powerful..."
"Maybe for us, but there is someone who has been fighting the Darkness for longer than most kingdoms have existed."
"Who?" Ella asked in complete desperation.
"The woman in gold. Her name is Nicolette Flamel, and if anyone can help protect our child, it's her."
At Granny's, Emma and Eve ran into Ruby outside, talking to her about Ashley.
"So this boyfriend of hers, Sean Herman," Emma inquired. "You don't think he was involved in her disappearance?"
"Not a chance. The guy flaked the second her test came back positive."
"You're sure about that?" Eve asked.
"Positive. Like I said he's a…"
All of a sudden, there was a heavy thud as a tow truck dropped a rather nice red car with a glass wolf dangling from the rearview window. Ruby was instantly on edge, calling out to the truck driver.
"Hey, hey, hey Billy, be careful. You almost shattered my wolf thing, Billy. It's good luck."
"Sorry Ruby," Billy apologized. "It's still fine though.
"Uh, Ruby," Emma spoke up again. "What about her family?"
"None really to speak of. Her dad died awhile back and she's not close with her step-mother or step sisters. They're real bitches to her."
"Wait," Henry realized. "Stepmom, stepsisters, and she's a maid?"
"Not relevant at the moment, Henry," Eve admonished. "Ruby, where would Ashley go?"
"Don't know, but whatever you've heard about her, it's wrong. Everyone thinks she's not ready to have this kid, but she's trying, taking night classes, trying to better herself, trying to get her life together. Can you understand that?"
"More than you might think," Emma admitted.
"Then maybe you should just stay out of it. She's been through enough already."
'I've been through it, too, Ruby, and I can help her."
"Perhaps her boyfriend might be able to shed some light on this," Eve suggested. "I know Sean, and I get the feeling that his 'flaking' is not of his own accord."
"Where can we find him?" Emma asked.
…
Not much later, the three arrived at Sean's house. They knocked on the door, not having to wait long before Sean opened the door.
"Can I help you?" he asked.
"Sean Herman?" Emma inquired.
"Yeah, who are you?"
"I'm Emma Swan, this is Eve Flemming," Emma answered as a car pulled up to the house. "We're looking for Ashley Boyd. She's in trouble. I just thought maybe she came to see you." "My son doesn't have anything to do with that girl anymore," an older man interrupted as he walked up to them."So whatever trouble she's in, I am sorry for, but there's nothing we can do to help you."
"It's you," Emma realized. "You're the reason he broke up with her."
"So what if I am," the man replied. "I'm not gonna let my son throw away his entire life over a mistake."
"You're calling your future grandchild a mistake?" Eve scoffed. "You were never this cold, Mitchell."
"I have my son's future to be concerned about, which can't "
"So you just told him to leave her?" Emma questioned.
"Well what are they going to do, raise the child in the backseat of a car?"
"Some people only have the backseat of a car."
"Well, they're to be pitied. I'm not letting that happen to my son."
Mitchell began walking into the house, but Sean hesitated, clearly torn on the entire situation.
"Dad," Sean spoke up. "maybe we should help them look."
"It's a waste, Sean," Mitchel insisted.
"Don't listen to him, Sean," Eve insisted. "You're an adult. You don't have to let him make choices for you. Decide for yourself what you want to do."
"She's right," Emma agreed. "If Ashley runs away with this baby, she's gonna be in some serious trouble."
"She's running away with the baby?" Sean repeated.
"Yes."
"Sean, inside. Now," Mitchel ordered, prompting Sean to go into the house. "Look, believe me if I knew where she was I would tell you. I went to a lot of trouble to get her that deal."
Eve's eyes went wide at the utterance of that last word.
"Deal?" Eve repeated. "What kind of deal? What did you do, Mitchell?"
"I arranged a deal for Ashley. She agreed to give up the child in exchange for a handsome sum, enough to turn her life around for the better."
"She sold the baby?!" Emma snapped.
"Oh, you make it sound so crass. I found someone who's going to find that child a good, proper home."
By now, Emma was fuming.
"And who are you to judge whether Ashley is capable of providing that?"
Mitchell snorted, crossing his arms.
"Look at her, she's a teenager, and she's never shown any evidence of being responsible. How could she possibly know how to be a mother?"
"She's trying to change her life herself, without the need for this horrible deal," Emma insisted.
"Believe what you want, but I found someone who's going to pay Ashley extremely well, someone who is going to see to it that everybody's happy."
"Mr. Gold," Eve all but snarled, clutching her medallion.
"Of course. Isn't that why you were hired, Miss Swan, to bring him the baby?"
Emma turned to Eve in shock, and Eve just grimaced. She turned away, looking bitter and angry.
…
Minutes later, the two of them were back in the car to find Ashley. Henry just sat in the back, watching silently as Emma laid into Eve.
"Alright Eve, start talking," Emma pressed. "You said before that you and Gold have a history. What is it?"
Eve sighed, rubbing her face.
"Believe me, our story is a very long and arduous one. To put it bluntly, I am his antithesis, his opposite. I try and dissuade people from taking the deals he offers. Sometimes I succeed, but more often than not, Gold prevails.
"There's a first time for everything. If Ashley wants to have this baby, she should have it. Anyone who wants to be a mother should damn well be allowed to be one."
"Maybe so, but I'm afraid that those who try to break deals with Mr. Gold rarely if ever find themselves in better situations. There's always a price to pay."
"We'll see about that."
…
The three of them quickly arrived at Granny's, heading to the counter to talk to Ruby.
"Ruby, why didn't you tell us Ashley sold the baby," Emma pressed.
"Cause I didn't think it was relevant," Ruby replied.
"Ruby, we're trying to help Ashley," Eve insisted. "Believe when I say that we both want Ashley to keep the child."
"Really? Why? You barely talk to anyone in town and Emma's been here, what a week?"
"We have our reasons," Emma snapped. "Now just tell us what we want to-"
She cut herself off, spotting a glass wolf sitting on the counter, the same glass wolf that hung in Ruby's car.
"Ruby, where's your car?"
Ruby just shrugged, helping Emma realize what was happening.
"You didn't send us to Sean's to find Ashley, you sent us there to give her a head start."
Eve went pale.
"Ruby, where is Ashley going?"
"I'm just trying to help a friend," Ruby insisted.
"So are we," Emma pressed. "Look, Ashley's in more trouble than you realize. Don't make her deal with Gold alone, please."
Ruby looked torn, then her eyes drifted down to Henry.
"I won't talk in front of the Mayor's kid."
"But I'm on your side!" Henry insisted.
"Henry," Emma addressed, kneeling down to him. "We need to find this woman, and in order to do that, I need you to go home, okay? So please listen to me, seriously. She's not gonna tell us anything if you're around."
"Listen to your mother, Henry," Eve insisted. "It's in Ashley's best interest we learn where she's going as soon as possible."
"Oh… ok," Henry relented, turning to leave.
As Henry went out the door, Eve and Emma turned back to Ruby.
"Where's Ashley?" Emma asked.
"She left town," Ruby answered. "She said she was gonna try Boston, thought she could disappear there."
"No!" Eve exclaimed. "She can't leave town! We have to find her before she crosses the town line!"
"How long ago did she leave?" Emma asked, slightly confused by Eve's sudden panic.
"About half an hour," Ruby answered.
Eve grabbed Emma by the arm.
"If we hurry, we can catch her in time!"
…
Not much later, the two were back in the car, racing to the town line. Eve was fidgeting nervously, rubbing her medallion as she kept looking out the window.
"What'd she say?" Henry asked, poking up from the back seat.
The two women jumped in surprise.
"Henry?!" Emma let out. "What the hell? We told you to go home!"
"Did you seriously stow away in the back seat?" Eve questioned. "Do you have any idea how irresponsible and reckless that was?!"
"Yeah, yeah," Henry replied. "But what'd she say?"
"She's going to Boston," Emma replied. "And you can't come with us."
"She can't go to Boston!" Henry let out. "Bad things happen to people who try to leave!"
"Now's not the time for the Curse nonsense, Henry!"
"I'm afraid in this case, it's not nonsense," Eve spoke up. "Terrible things tend to happen to those who leave town. Your wolf, for example."
"That was… you know what, forget it! We need to get Henry home."
"We have to stop her before she gets hurt," Henry insisted. "If you drop me off, you'll never catch up to her."
"He's right," Eve agreed. "Time is not on our side. Ashley is our priority and we must find her."
Emma sighed in response.
"Buckle up kid," Emma told him. "Ashley, what have you gotten yourself into?"
In her tower out in the Enchanted Forest, Nicholette was scribbling away at a scroll, several bubbling potions and chemicals surrounding her. She watched one react, then waved a hand over it, golden sparkles mixing with the liquid before she resumed her writing.
"Interesting..."
Suddenly, there was a knock at her door. Curious, she got out of her chair and walked to the door, opening it.
"Prince Thomas, Princess Ella. To what do I owe this visit?"
"We need your help," Thomas answered.
Nicholette sighed, ushering them in.
"Rumplestiltskin's deal I'm assuming. What exactly did he ask of you?"
"Our child," Ella let out. "You were right, I should have never made a deal with him.
"Your child..." Nicholette gasped, looking sick to her stomach. "What does that Imp want with a child?"
"We don't know," Thomas told her. "All we know is that you're the only one who's ever faced off against the Dark One and lived to tell about it. You're the only one who can help us protect our child from his evil."
Nicholette winced slightly.
"Listen, your Highness. While it is true I have battled the Darkness for far longer than you can imagine, we have remained at a stalemate. He cannot destroy me, but I cannot destroy him. Nor can I break one of his deals."
"Please," Ella pleaded. "There must be something you can do!"
Nicholette met her eyes, then sighed.
"There is… one thing I could do. While I cannot destroy him… I can contain him."
She walked over to her desk, moving her chair aside to reveal a trap door. The knob shimmered as she grabbed it, opening to reveal a ladder.
"What's down there?" Ella asked.
"Something that I commissioned a long time ago. A prison strong enough to contain the likes of the Dark One."
She led the two down in what appeared to be old mining tunnels. Sconces dotted the walls, leading to an area marked off with jagged, teeth-like bars.
"A lot of dwarven blood and sweat went into this prison. Once inside, magic is all but useless, and not even I nor the Dark One would be able to escape."
"How would you get him down here?" Elle asked. "He's eluded all forever."
"Including me," Nicolette added. "Fortunately, his strength is also his weakness. His deals. He wants your firstborn child, yes? Then all we need to do is trick him into thinking you have twins. Falsehoods are not normally my forte, but in situations like these, I can be quite adaptable.
"How will that help?" Ella asked.
"When he comes to make the deal," Nicolette explained, pulling out a quill from her cloak. "Get him to sign with this. It's infused with the magic of a special ink, one that will paralyze him long enough for me to contain him and have him transported here. With him locked up, your child should, and I must stress, should be safe."
"We can't thank you enough," Thomas told her.
"You're providing me a chance to remove Rumplestiltskin from the playing field. Believe me, we're even. I only hope that when the time comes, our plan succeeds without unforeseen consequences."
"Unforeseen consequences?" Ella questioned. "What does that mean?"
"All magic comes at a price, and breaking a deal with the Dark One will certainly be costly."
"If it means protecting our child," Thomas spoke up. "Then we're willing to do whatever it takes." he took Ella's hand. "I promise we'll stop him."
"Alright…" Ella relented. "Let's get him."
The bug continued speeding down the road, it's occupants hoping to find Ashley in time. Unfortunately, as they rounded the corner, they spotted Ruby's car in a ditch.
"I told you," Henry pointed out.
Emma pulled up behind the car, allowing the three of them to get out and begin their search. Ashley was easy to spot, having only made it a few feet from the car. She was on the ground, clutching her stomach.
"Ashley!" Eve let out, rushing over to her.
"The baby…" Ashley gasped. "It's coming..."
…
The three of them quickly got Ashley into the bug and drove back into town. Eve sat in the back with her, trying to help Ashley breathe through the contractions and pain.
"Is the baby really coming?" Henry asked.
"Oh yeah," Emma confirmed.
"Just breathe, Ashley," Eve insisted. "Storybrooke General isn't far."
"No!" Ashley practically cried out. "I've got to get to Boston! I can't go back!"
"Oh no," Emma shot down. "We do not have four hours. Trust me, I know."
"I can't go back there! He's gonna take my baby!"
"We won't let that happen," Eve swore, speaking softly under her breath. "I promised your child would be safe and I meant it."
"She's right, we won't," Emma added. "But do you know what you're asking for? If you keep this child, are you really ready?"
"Yes," Ashley replied.
"You sure? Cause I wasn't."
That made Henry perk slightly, Eve and Ashley also raising their heads.
"You… you gave up a child?" Ashley asked.
"I did…" Emma confirmed. "If you want to give this kid it's best chance, it's gonna be with someone who's ready, so know what that means. Your whole life is gonna change, and once you decide that it's yours, this running away can't happen. You have to grow up, and you can't ever leave. Understand?"
Though momentarily thrown by Emma's sudden enthusiasm, Ashley found herself emboldened by her words.
"Yes. I want my baby."
Late one night, Ella stood alone in a garden, nervously fiddling with her sleeve.
"Well, well, well," Rumplestiltiskin's voice remarked, causing Ella to turn and see him. "You're starting to show. A little birdie told me you wanted to speak."
"Yes," Ella confirmed, walking over to him. "I'd like to alter our deal."
"Sorry, not my thing."
"I think you'll like this. I'm carrying twins."
Rumplestiltskin perked up at that news.
"Is that so? Let's have a look."
Rumplestiltskin came over and observed Ella's stomach.
"And you would… what? Give up both? Why, I wonder."
Ella took a breath, steeling her nerves as she recalled the story created.
"My husband... he's... he's having a hard time. Our kingdom is poor. We're losing money. Our crops are dying. We can't support ourselves or our people."
"And you would trade your other child for… comfort?"
"We can always have more children, but I can't make crops where the soil is dead." She then pulled out a contract and the quill. "In exchange for our other child, you will see to it that our land is once again fertile. I believe that is more than fair."
"Yes!" Rumplestiltskin snapped. "Yes, yes. If what you're saying is true."
"It is." Ella held out the quill. "All you have to do is sign."
Rumplestiltskin looked down at the quill, seeing it was golden in color.
"What a lovely quill," he noted, plucking it out of her hand. "Golden fletching is quite rare. Pray tell, where did you get it?"
"It's from our castle."
"You know, the only way to stop me is with magic."
"I'm not trying to stop you," Ella insisted.
Rumplestiltskin laughed.
"Oh of course not. Like I told you long ago, all magic comes with a price. So, if you were to use this quill to, say… imprison me, then your debit to me would only grow. And you wouldn't want that, would you?"
Ella turned away in fear, swallowing hard.
"Do you want my second child, or not?"
"My, aren't we insistent tonight? You sure this is what you want?"
Ella held out the contract in response, prompting Rumplestiltskin to take it.
"Then so it shall be," he declared, signing it.
As he dotted the contract, he suddenly froze up, a strange halo freezing him in his tracks. From the bushes, Nicholette emerged, her hands glowing with golden light as she approached her captive adversary.
"After nearly 200 years, I finally have you right where I want you, Rumplestiltskin."
"I had an inkling you were in on this. I thought you would have warned her, no one breaks a deal with me."
"There's always a first time," Nicolette remarked as Thomas brought in a carriage with a cell attached to it. "I hope this deal was worth it, Rumple, because it's the last one you're ever going to make."
"Don't be too sure, dearie. As for you my dear Cinderella, just know that no matter where you go, no matter what land you find yourself in… I assure you, I will have your baby."
At the hospital, Emma, Henry, and Eve sat in the waiting room, anxious about any news in regards to Ashley.
"You know Emma," Henry spoke up. "You're different."
"Oh? How so?"
"You can leave. You're the only person in Storybrooke who can."
"The wolf begs to differ," Eve remarked.
"Besides, you left and found me in Boston," Emma reminded.
"But I came back," Henry countered. "I had to. I'm 10."
"Like we said before, bad things happen to those who cross the town line," Eve remarked. "We're fortunate that Ashley got as lucky as she did."
"Then why would I be so lucky?" Emma wondered.
Eve shrugged.
"Your guess is as good as mine."
"It's because she's the Savior," Henry insisted. "The Curse wants to be broken, and it knows Emma's the only one that can do it."
"And the wolf?" Emma asked.
"A gentle nudge in the right direction," Eve purposed.
"The bump I was nursing showed it was anything but gentle."
"Excuse me," an Obstetrician spoke up as she walked up to them. "Are you the ladies who brought Miss Boyd in?"
Emma and Eve both stood up.
"We are," the former announced. "How is she?"
"She's doing well. And the baby is a healthy six pound girl."
"What lovely news," the voice of Mr. Gold remarked, sauntering into the room. "Excellent work, Miss Swan. And you, Miss Flemming. I thank you both for retrieving my merchandise."
Nicholette got Rumplestiltskin loaded up into the carriage, ensuring he wasn't escaping anytime soon. He was being uncharacteristically cooperative, silently watching her triple check every lock and binding spell. While she did that, Ella and Thomas sat off to the side.
"Are you sure we won?" Ella wondered.
"Yes," Thomas reassured. "We won. Our child is safe."
"I was so afraid. I was so afraid that we'd fail, that... I'd have to go back to that life, that- that terrible life. I was afraid I would lose you. And that nothing would have changed."
"As long as I am alive,you will never go back to that life."
The two shared a kiss, seemingly putting Ella's fears at ease.
"Now, how is our little Alexandra?"
Ella made a face.
"Alexandra?"
"Did I not mention that I picked out a name?"
"A name?" She scoffed playfully. "That's more like a prison sentence."
"Well I like it."
"Men, you really no nothing of ch-"
Ella suddenly cut off, clutching her stomach as she was suddenly wracked with pain. She stumbled a bit and Thomas caught her instantly worried.
"Ella, what is it?"
"It's…" She choked slightly, tears in her eyes from the pain. "It's the baby. Something's wrong."
"No, no. It can't be; it's too soon. It must be the stress, the excitement."
"Oh, I'm dizzy."
"Sit, sit. I'll go get you water."
Cinderella: Okay.
Thomas then ran off into the woods, quickly locating a well. He lowered the bucket, getting some water before a noise startled him. He straightened, reaching for his sword before looking around. As he did, something grabbed him from behind and he vanished, leaving nothing but the discarded bucket and his sword. Just as he vanished, Ella's pain faded away and she was able to relax.
"Thomas, it's okay. It's passed." She heard no response. "Thomas?"
She walked over to the well, searching for Thomas. Unfortunately, he was nowhere to be found.
"Thomas?!"
She ran back to where Rumplestiltskin was sitting in the carriage, looking surprisingly smug for a man in a cage.
"What did you do?"
"Your Highness, what's wrong?" Nicholette questioned. "What happened?"
"What did you do to my Thomas?!" Ella demanded.
I haven't done anything," Rumplestiltskin replied smugly. "In case you haven't noticed I've been otherwise engaged."
"Something's happened to him. You know. Tell me!"
"I have no idea, dearie, but I did warn you." He leaned closer, leering at Ella. "All magic comes at a price. It looks like someone has just paid."
"Don't let him scare you," Nicholette insisted. "Thomas is fine. He'll show up eventually."
"No, he won't!" Rumplestiltskin argued in a singsong voice. "Until that debt is paid, until that baby is mine, you're never gonna see him again, in this world or the next Cinderella. I will have that baby."
Upon seeing Mr. Gold, Eve grabbed him by the arm, marching him around the corner. He didn't even flinch at the grab, simply trotting along as she all but threw him into the hospital wall.
"What is it with you and that child? What could you possibly gain?"
"That is my business, and mine alone," Gold replied, seemingly unphased by her show of force.
"Is that why you didn't tell me what I was recovering?" Emma inquired, approaching the pair. "Or did you just think I wouldn't take the job?"
"On the contrary," Gold replied, removing Eve's hand from his person. "I thought it would be more effective if you found out yourself. After seeing Ashley's hard life, I thought it would make sense... to you. I mean if anyone could understand the reasons behind giving up a baby, I assumed it would be you."
"You will not take that child," Eve swore.
"Damn right he won't," Emma agreed.
"Actually, I will," Gold shot down. "We had an agreement. And, as Miss Flemming can attest, my agreements are always honored. If not, I'm going to have to involve the police, and that baby is going to end up in the system, and that would be a pity. You didn't enjoy your time in the system, did you Emma?"
"No, and that's why I'm not letting this happen. That child is going to stay with her mother, and I don't care what you say."
"Even if I point out that I can simply press charges on Miss Boyd? After all, she broke into my shop, and assaulted me."
"Please," Eve snorted. "You know no jury in this world will put a woman in jail whose only reason for breaking and entering was to keep her child."
"More than that, I'm willing to roll the dice that contract doesn't stand up," Emma added, crossing her arms and glaring at Gold. "Are you? Not to mention what might come out about you in the process. Somehow I suspect there is more to you than a simple pawnbroker. You really want to start that fight?"
Gold chuckled in response.
"I have to say, Miss Swan… I like you. It's a rare bird that can stare me down unflinchingly. So, how about a deal?"
Eve bristled instantly.
"No. Absolutely-"
"What kind of deal?" Emma cut off.
"Well, I would be willing to…" Gold paused, mulling over his words for a moment, "nullify my contract with Miss Boyd, and allow her to keep her child… if you're willing to do a favor for me."
"What kind of favor?"
"Not sure… yet. But when the time comes for me to cash in… I'll let you know. Do we have a deal?"
Eve was just staring, pieces finally falling into place for her. Emma spared her a cursory glance before holding out her hand.
"Deal."
Gold smirked, taking her hand and shaking it. With that done, Emma went into the hospital room to check on Ashley, leaving Eve and Gold alone. Once she was gone, Eve turned to Gold, speaking soft enough that only the two of them could hear.
"You planned this… You never wanted that child, did you? It was just a means to an end… to get a favor from her…"
Gold smirked in response.
"Things are changing in Storybrooke," He responded. "Sooner or later, when those changes become more… excessive, a favor from Miss Swan will go a long way."
He walked off at that, leaving a dumbstruck Eve in his wake.
…
In the hospital room, Ashley was holding her newborn daughter, smiling and gently rocking her. Emma and Henry walked in to check on her, smiling as well.
"What's her name?" Emma asked.
"Alexandra," Ashley answered.
"Pretty name," Eve commended, walking into the room as well. "Mr. Gold just left, by the way. And, thanks to Emma here, he will not be taking your daughter."
"What?" Ashley let out. "Why?"
"I made a deal with him," Emma answered.
"Thank you," Ashley said in utter relief. "Thank you so much."
Emma just smiled, casually noticing a clock on the wall.
"Oh, hey kid, it's almost five. You gotta get home."
Henry yelped in fear.
"Go," Eve told the pair. "I'll watch over Ashley."
"Thanks!" Emma called out as she and Henry ran off.
…
In an apartment somewhere in Storybrooke, Regina was adjusting her dress, fixing her hair in the mirror. She looked like someone who was most definitely NOT in a council meeting.
"I have to go," She said to someone in an adjacent bathroom. "Henry's expecting me home at 5:00. But I'll see you again, at the next council meeting. Oh, and don't forget, you left your socks under the bed."
There was no reply, but she took her leave anyway.
…
Meanwhile, Emma and Henry continued driving down the road.
"Pumpkin," Emma let out, getting a confused look from Henry. "My code name. I was thinking in honor of Cinderella, Pumpkin."
Henry thought for a moment, then shook his head.
"Nah. I have a better one."
"Do you now? And what is it?"
Henry just laughed.
"I don't think you're ready yet."
…
Finally, the bug pulled up to the Mayor's house, allowing Henry to get out and run towards the gate.
"Henry!" Emma called out, causing Henry to stop. "About what you said back at the hospital? About me being able to leave?"
"Yeah?"
Emma paused for a second.
"I'll see you tomorrow."
She took off as Henry rushed inside. As he made it inside, he could hear his mother approaching and quickly dashed up the stairs. One of his sneakers slipped off of his feet as he ran, landing on the step as he made it to his room.
"Henry?" Regina called out as she entered the house.
Henry quickly made it into his room, ditched his backpack, and grabbed a book to 'read' on the bed.
"Henry what did I tell you?" Regina demanded angrily as she opened Henry's door. "Do not leave your shoes lying on the stairs."
She held up the offending sneaker as Henry winced.
"Someone could get hurt," she told him, setting to shoe on his bed before leaving.
Henry let out a sigh of relief.
…
Back at the hospital, Sean made his way through the hospital, catching Eve as she headed out.
"Hey," he called out. "Can… can you tell me which room is Ashley's?"
Eve blinked in surprise upon seeing him, then she gave him a warm smile.
"Through there," she told him, pointing. "I imagine she will love seeing you here."
Sean nodded, then made his way into Ashley's room. She looked up upon hearing him enter, gasping in shock.
"Sean?"
"Ashley, I am so sorry. I never should have left."
"You're back?"
"Yeah, I'm back," Sean confirmed, sitting on the bed. "Here, I got her a present."
He reached into a bag he was carrying and pulled out some baby shoes. They looked like tiny little slippers, and Ashley gushed happily.
"I don't know if they'll fit her," Sean admitted, slipping them on Alexandra's feet.
"They're perfect," Ashley confirmed, much to Sean's happiness as the two kissed.
Just outside the room, Eve watched this and smiled, running a thumb over her amulet before walking off.
"Happily Ever After… finally."
…
Meanwhile, Emma looked at the card Graham had given her earlier, thinking over his offer. Finally, she pulled out her phone and dialed the number.
"Hello?"
"Graham, it's Emma. I was thinking maybe some roots wouldn't be so bad. That deputy job still open?"
"Absolutely."
"Then I'm in. Regina gonna be ok with this?"
"I don't care, it's my department. I'll see ya in the morning."
"See ya," Emma replied, hanging up and driving off.
…
After hanging up, Graham fished his socks out from under his bed, the same bed in the same apartment Regina had been in. From his shirtless attire, it was obvious he was the subject of Regina's "council meeting".