A/N: I am so sorry for the delay! Luckily my classes are almost finished and I have no intention of taking summer classes as of now. So I should hopefully get back to a more regular posting schedule. Anyway, I know it's a long chapter, and there'll be some Charming/Emma drama on the way. So I hope you enjoy, and as always feel free to review!

King George didn't say a word as the camera flashed, numbly obeying Emma's orders as she took his mug shots. David watched obsessively from the office, respecting Emma's wish that he keep his distance. As the king turned to the right their eyes locked, and even now there was no remorse to be found – only prideful bitterness and intense hatred. If he was sorry at all it was only because he had been caught. Guilt knotted David's stomach as he watched – guilt for feeling glad that it wasn't him who was raised by this madman, wondering again about the life of the brother he never met.

"So how was dinner?" Leroy asked behind him with a mouthful of french fries. David didn't turn around, watching Emma closely as she approached the king, leading him back to his cell.

"Not too terrible – awkward to say the least. I found out more about Rumplestiltskin then I ever thought there was to know." Emma locked the cell, removing his handcuffs through the bars and a heavy sigh of relief escaped him. While King George wasn't the only threat to his family, it was at least one less thing to worry about. Now he was nothing but a defeated king and a soon to be convicted murderer. It was a small victory, but it was a victory none the less.

"So does this mean you're ok with them dating?" At that David glanced over his shoulder to the dwarf, contemplating the question.

"I don't know if I'll ever be ok with it, but we'll see what happens. How are you feeling, by the way? Tired at all? Do you need me to stay?" he asked hopefully, desperate for an excuse to stay anywhere other than Gold's. But of the two of them, he knew Emma would never let him stay in the station overnight.

"I feel fine. I put a call in to a few of the dwarves, Doc and Happy will be here at midnight and Bashful will show up a little later. Between the four of us we can stay up all night." David nodded, forcing a tight smile as Emma re-entered the office.

"Alright, I'm all finished here. Are you ready to go?" she said, placing the file in the lock drawer of her desk.

"Yea, I guess so…" he mumbled, avoiding her gaze. Emma knew her father would rather spend the night in a cell than go back to Gold's and she still can't believe he agreed. She pulled on her red leather jacket, moving to her father's side near the door.

"Are you sure you don't mind staying Leroy?" she clarified.

"I'm sure. This'll be the first time I've spent the night in the station on this side of the bars. It's a nice change…" A crooked smile formed on her lips, nodding in agreement as she walked to the door.

"Well, thanks again…call us if you need anything. Have a good night, Leroy. …" she said, as they left the office. There was a heavy silence between them as they walked from the station – the same silence that plagued their ride over from Gold's. Emma sighed heavily in the passenger seat as her father revved the engine. For as long of a day as it was, she knew it could have been far worse, and the end was finally in sight. Ruby had been cleared of all charges, and the true monster sat behind bars. But now it was time to go home and find out if there was yet another monster on her way to Storybrooke.

Emma watched out the window as Storybrooke rushed by, feeling conflicted on what to say. Her father's tension was palpable, and Emma had remained silent simply to avoid the stress of an argument. She knew it was unrealistic to believe that David would just magically accept the situation given the history they have with Gold, but she had allowed herself to hope. Despite what she hoped, she couldn't shake the fear that her relationship has and would continue to drive a wedge between her and her father.

"So, you are…eventually going to talk to me, right?" Emma asked matter-of-factly, unwilling to endure another minute of silence.

"Yea, sorry, I just have a lot on my mind." He mumbled, glancing out the driver side window.

"Like what?" she prodded. It was hard to see his eyes in the dim light of the truck, but the heaviness around him was practically tangible.

"Did you know that I had a twin brother?" Emma quirked an eyebrow, certain that he would've taken the opportunity to lecture her about her recent life choices.

"Gold mentioned something about a deal…" she replied vaguely, though she knew exactly what he was talking about.

"Yea, exactly…" he replied, a bitter edge to his voice. "My brother was sent to live with the king and I never had the chance to know him. I can't say I ever envied him once I took his place. I loved my mother, our farm – my life. Sometimes I just wonder what it was like for him to be raised by that manic. Was he ever kind to my brother? And then there are nights like tonight, where I'm glad it wasn't me Rumpelstiltskin took. What does that say about me?"

"It makes you human. Enjoying your life and being glad that you didn't suffer is nothing to apologize for." David nodded wordlessly, tightening his grip on the steering wheel. "Did you know he was going to ask us to stay the night?"

"Not until you guys started banging on the door. I told him not to expect you to say yes."

"So then why did he ask?"

"Exactly what he said – Cora; were it not for that Gold wouldn't have asked at all." David shifting anxiously in his seat and Emma rolled her eyes, doing her best to keep her voice calm as she continued, "Look, it's just for tonight. If you're really that uncomfortable with it just drop me off and go home. No one is making you stay…"

"It's just strange, Emma…" David interrupted curtly. "I've never trusted that man and tonight I'll be sleeping in his house."

"Then don't think of it as sleeping over…think of it more as reconnaissance behind enemy lines…" Emma teased, hoping to ease choking tension. David shot her a wary glance, and Emma smiled. Despite his obvious efforts not to, he allowed himself to laugh. She laughed with him and added, "Look on the bright side – at least you're not staying the night at Regina's."

"Please…" Emma glanced out the window, still smiling and laughing lightly to herself. "So, tell me, when did you fall in love with him?" Emma smiled to herself as the truck stopped at a red light.

"Um…I'm not really sure." she mumbled quickly, returning her gaze to her father. At that David rolled his eyes in aggravation, no doubt thinking she was trying to skirt the issue and Emma was quick to continue. "I don't know the exact moment it happened, but I would say that I realized it about a month ago…just before the curse was broken."

"What made you realize it?" he prodded gently.

"We were lying on the couch just after dinner – not doing anything, not saying anything…we were just there. He started stroking my face and I opened my eyes…" Emma let her head fall back against the headrest, her eyes drifting closed at the memory, "…and just the look in his eyes…it was the moment I knew that he loved me. And it's ridiculous but it actually brought tears to my eyes when I realized that I loved him in return…that I was truly happy…" she let her voice trail off, not willing to elaborate further. That was the night before their weekend excursion to his cabin.

"Why would that be ridiculous?"

"I guess it's not, I'm just not an emotional sappy person who tears up easily." Her father smiled, leveling her with a sad and curious glare as a soft hmm escaped him. "Green light..." David looked surprised that the light changed, and they started moving once again.

"I just want what's best for you, Emma." He said almost inaudibly and Emma wondered if he had even meant for her to hear it. She couldn't be mad at him for caring and she couldn't deny that she loved how protective he was of her. But she didn't know how to admit that to him without sending the message that he had some kind of say in this situation, or any other decision she would make. It was her life. She loved Gold, and he loved and respected her in return. Shouldn't that be all that matters?

"And I have it…" She said softly. His eyes closed briefly with a slight nod and Emma decided to just let it rest. Silence reigned once more and Emma stared out the window, hoping that with enough time her father would eventually accept them as a couple.

Gold swallowed another spoonful of sherbert, the two of them on their third round of desert. After a tour of his house, Henry had deemed it necessary to tell him his entire life story, despite that Gold had witnessed most of it. Then they spoke of the curse, and all of Henry's theories and the characters in his book. He listened intently, answering his questions and contributing to the conversation in all the right places, but it only intensified his longing for Bae. It had been so long since a child had been left alone in his care he'd forgotten what it was like. Though he hoped that by having Henry in his life more, it might help better prepare him for reuniting with his son. The boy finally stopped talking long enough for a mouthful of ice cream and Gold took advantage of his silence to satisfy his curiosity.

"Henry, are you really alright with me dating Emma, or are you just saying that because you don't want to see your mother sad? Or are you afraid to make me mad?" Henry held his gaze thoughtfully, and for long minutes he didn't answer. His anxiety intensified with each moment of deafening silence, fearing the words that would be his answer.

"I guess at first I thought you guys were just trying to get along. I thought it was kinda cool because I never saw you be nice to anyone for a lot of years. I didn't trust you. But I've seen you change and so have some other people. And other than me, I've never seen Emma happier than when she's with you. I trust her, and if she can look passed all the stuff that happened between you guys when she first got here, than I guess I can too. Besides, I don't think my mom would stay with you if she really thought you were a threat to either of us."

And those were the words that stabbed straight through his heart. Emma had forgiven him, and he knew that she would cloak his sins from her family. But his guilt ever gnawed at him, and looking into Henry's young and trusting face only twisted the knife in deeper. Bae had trusted him, and he failed him miserably. He forced the thought from his mind - he couldn't allow himself to think that history would repeat itself. He had to believe that he wouldn't fail again – that he would never place Henry and Emma in danger to serve his own purposes.

"My mom says that you helped make her nightmares go away." Henry stated bluntly with a mouth full of ice cream. Gold scoffed, diverting his gaze to the table.

"Well, I don't know about that…" he said doubtfully, chuckling as if it were a joke. If anything, he's only made them worse with all that's happened recently.

"She said that you make her feel safe and that's what fixed it." Gold stopped at that, regarding Henry with a curious gaze.

"She said that?"

"Yep. My mom tries to hide it, but I think she loves you a lot. She tells me that no matter what I come first and if I don't like it then she'll break up with you."

"Well, yes, a child always comes first before a partner." Henry's expression turned serious, much too serious for a boy so young. He leaned closer to Gold, never breaking eye contact with a scrutinize gaze.

"Do you promise not to hurt her, or break her heart?" It took all his mental energy not to smile, the fierce protectiveness Henry had for his mother was as admirable as it was adorable. But he wasn't kidding, and Gold leaned his elbows on the table, making himself eye level with Henry.

"I promise…" he stated firmly, promising himself as well as Henry that he wouldn't never hurt Emma again.

"Good, 'cause I'm gonna tell her that I'm ok with you guys dating and that I'd like to spend some time here with you guys." Relief like a wave washed over him – the crushing fear of their relationship ending on Henry's behalf had finally been squelched.

"Well, we'd love to have you here. I'm sure that will make your mother very happy." Gold relished the few moments of silence, smiling to himself as Henry focused intently on eating his dessert. As uncomfortable as most of the evening had been, it went much better than he had anticipated.

"Mr. Gold, you healed the burn on my hand…" Henry began hesitantly, pulling Gold from his thoughts. "Isn't there a magic spell that you could use that would make me stop going to that world?"

"I wish there was, young man, but even if there was I don't think I would use it." The words were out before he realized it, and Gold felt the panic rising at the confused expression on Henry's face. If that wasn't the best way to undo any ground he just gained, then he did't know what would. It made him sound like a monster.

"Why not?" Gold swallowed hard, and took a deep breath.

"Well, for starters, I don't want to risk harming you un-necessarily. Magic works differently here and you have a young mind that is still developing. Magic always comes with a price, Henry – a price you're already paying."

"But why else?" Gold pushed the bowl away from him, thinking of how best to explain this to a young boy when most adults couldn't understand or accept it. It was one of the aspects of life that just wasn't fair, and there was never a satisfactory answer as to why.

"Henry, the human mind is incredibly complex. And sometimes…sometimes things happen in our lives that are beyond our control, things that hurt us, and the mind needs to learn how to cope with that on its own. Those experiences, as unpleasant as they are, help us grow. They help us to learn and they make us stronger. If I were to use magic and don't allow your mind the time it needs to heal, there could be…unforeseen consequences. Do you understand?"

"I think so…kind of like even though you'd be trying to help me, it could hurt me anyway?"

"Yes, exactly like that." Henry nodded in understanding, seeming to accept the answer without further question.

"But my mind will eventually fix itself though, right?"

"Indeed, hopefully within a few months time…" Gold offered a hopeful smile, praying he was right.

"Hey, anyone home?" came Emma's voice from the front door.

"In the kitchen, love," Gold replied, leaning in closer to Henry. "Don't tell your mother we had three deserts…" he urged in hushed tones, rising from the table. A wide grin formed on the boy's face, nodding in agreement. Henry rushed to his mother's side as Emma and Charming walked into the kitchen together. Emma was forced back a step by the force with which Henry ran into her. She smiled, laughing lightly as she kissed his head.

"I missed you too, kid." She said playfully, clutching him against her.

"Where's Mary?" David asked concerned, looking around as if Gold would've actually hurt her in his absence.

"She's sleeping. She went to sleep right after you left…" David carefully avoiding his eyes, and Gold knew he would prefer to be anywhere else right now. But he couldn't care less – Cora was too great a threat to be ignored. Emma followed Henry back to the table, and Gold held his arm out to greet her. She smiled brightly as he pulled him into a tight embrace, not caring that her father and son were watching. He smiled, feeling as her body relaxed instantly in his arms.

"Henry…is that the same bowl of ice cream you were eating earlier?" came her stern voice in his ear. Henry shook his head with a broad smile remaining silent as Emma pulled back, leveling Gold with an accusatory glare.

"I thought a second bowl couldn't hurt." He lied; an impish grin on his lips.

"I didn't even get a first bowl yet…" she pouted, and it was all Gold could do not to catch her bottom lip in a kiss. She knew how much he liked that...

"Yea, me neither…" David said behind her. With a wink and knowing grin, Emma stepped from his embrace, walking to the freezer.

"What flavor do you want?" Emma asked as Gold resumed his place at the table.

"Rocky road sounded pretty good…" he replied, taking a seat beside Henry.

As Emma dished out their dessert, she stared in wonder at all of the men in her life around the same table as they made polite conversation. To an outsider, they would assume Gold was her father and David her boyfriend or brother. The age gap between them was hardly a consideration for Emma, but she couldn't help but wonder how David would react if she ever announced his son-in-law was going to be three-hundred years older than him. The butterflies took flight in her stomach at the thought of marrying Gold, surprised how easily she could envision spending the rest of her life with him. Even more, it surprised her how much she truly wanted it.

"So how did everything go at the station?" Henry asked. Emma cleared her throat, returning the carton of ice cream to the freezer.

"Uneventful…the king was surprisingly quiet."

"Well, everything is finally sinking in; he's used to getting away with murder…" David chimed in, thanking Emma as she handed him his desert. She sat between Gold and Henry, wasting no time in bringing a heaping spoonful to her lips.

"About that, Emma…I've been meaning to talk to you." David's head lifted in interest at that, and she could feel the weight of his stare. Emma could sense by the tone of Gold's voice that she didn't want him to continue that sentence, holding his gaze silently as she waited. "Spencer can't go to trial."

"What?" David demanded angrily.

"What do you mean?" Emma asked calmly, silently pleading with her father to calm down. David closed his mouth, shifting his intense gaze to Gold.

"I mean, you can't let him go to trial. He can't leave Storybrooke without losing his memory and without understanding or remembering why he's in prison, he could draw unwanted attention to this place. We can't risk people finding out about Storybrooke."

"So, what are you suggesting? I can't keep him in the station…" her voice trailed off, not wanting to put the blame on David. But she knew it would only be a matter of time before Spencer provoked David into a fight and that was the last thing she needed.

"Lock him up in the psych ward until we figure out a more permanent solution. Accusing someone of being a werewolf is crazy after all."

"And what…treat him with psych meds for an illness he doesn't even have?" Emma challenged incredulously. Although some Prozac might go a long way in making the DA a little more tolerable… she thought sarcastically.

"I didn't say give him meds, just lock him up until we figure out a better solution." Emma rubbed her eyes, shaking her head in aggravation.

"Alright, I'll see what I can do tomorrow –"

"Oh, good you guys are back…" came Mary's tired voice. Everyone turned to see her slowly enter to kitchen, her eyes squinting in the bright light. David was by her side in an instant and this time she didn't pull away as he hugged her against him.

"Hey, are you alright?" David asked gently, kissing the crown of her head. Mary tightened her arms around him, nodding against his chest.

"I'm fine." Mary mumbled, pulling away from him. Mary fell exhausted into a chair, wincing as she rested her arms on the table. Emma locked eyes with Gold momentarily, expecting him to ask a barrage of questions. But to her surprise, he didn't.

"Mr. Gold, could you…" she didn't even finish her sentence, rolling up her sleeve to reveal the burn that covered the expanse of her forearm. David's eyes widened in horror, and before he could utter a word, Gold was gently cradling her mother's wrist in his hand. Emma watched amazed once again as the scar disappeared entirely beneath the cloud of a pale blue light. Mary smiled weakly in thanks as Gold released her, quickly rolling her sleeve back down. Emma had to suppress her smile as Mary took a spoonful of David's ice cream.

"Well, I saw Aurora…" she stated without looking up, "…and Lancelot is certain Cora is trying to make it over here."

"Does he know how?" Gold asked immediately.

"Um, not really. They stole something from a giant and they think Cora somehow harnessed the magic from the wardrobe after we used it, but he doesn't know the exact portal she'll be using." Gold pinched the bridge of his nose, his body rigid with tension beside her.

"How did she even know where to find it?" Emma interjected, giving Gold a few minutes to collect his thoughts. "Cora was locked in that cell."

"Well, Aurora followed us, or followed Philip, and Cora must've followed her. She could've easily used her magic to get out of that cell." Emma couldn't help but wonder if it was Aurora that she shot at, or Cora. Either way, probably gave them the scare of their life.

"Did she say anything else?" Gold interrupted impatiently.

"Apparently, Cora is working with someone – a pirate, they think…with a hook for a hand. Lancelot thinks we have a day at most…"

"A pirate with a hook for a hand…as in Captain Hook?" Emma asked sardonically. She would've laughed at the idea if she hadn't seen Gold's horrified expression, watching as the blood drained from his face. When his breathing intensified she gripped his hand, shaking gently to snap him from his thoughts.

"Gold..." His heart stopped at her words, exhaling heavily as realization dawned on him. Killian Jones…he should've died of old age hundreds of years ago. Rage coursed through him at the memory – chiding himself repeatedly that he didn't rip the pirate's heart out while he had the chance. He must've used the bean, transporting him to a land where time stood still. Now he would have to tell Emma the worst parts of past, the death of Milah at his own hand and his relationship with Cora.

"Gold…" came Emma's concerned voice. He blinked several times, staring intently at their joined hands before lifting his eyes to meets hers. "Are you ok?"

"Yes, of course," He was lying, and she knew it, but in the presence of her parents and son, the matter was not open for discussion.

"Can you stop her?" Mary asked softly.

"Well, I'll need Regina's help, but yes, I have a plan to stop her." He replied, keeping his voice calm and detached.

"Will Regina go along with it? This is after all her mother…" David asked skeptically.

"Trust me, if Regina wanted her mother here, she would have brought her along in the first place. The key here is to prevent Cora from ever coming through so none of us have to be subjected to her evil. Now, it's been a very long day for all of us," Gold announced rising abruptly from his chair. "I suggest we all get some rest while we still can." Everyone rose awkwardly, and Emma reached for Henry's hand.

"Hey, kid, David brought pajamas and your toothbrush. So go get ready for bed and then I'll be up to tuck you in." Henry nodded excitedly, rushing from the kitchen ahead of her parents. Gold waited until they were out of earshot before gathering the empty bowls, dropping them angrily into the sink. He felt Emma move behind him, hugging him around the waist as he scrubbed the dishes with a vengeance. At first she said nothing, resting her head against his back as her hands moved over his abdomen.

Gold stopped scrubbing, closing his eyes at her soothing touch as her hands trailed over his chest. Of all the people for Cora to bring over it had to be the man that ruined his life to begin with. Though he always planned on telling Emma everything in his past, he never imagined it would happen like this. He wished more than ever that there was some way to erase his horrid past, despising himself more every time he had to recount the details of his evil deeds. She has been more understanding and accepting of his past then he could ever have hoped and all he could do now was hope she would accept this as well. He turned the water off, drying his hands on a dishtowel as he turned in her arms.

"If I ask, will you tell me?" she asked before he could utter a word. He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, trailing the edge of her face as he held her gaze.

"Later…" he tried to smile, but it was pointless. "Go tuck Henry in. I'll be up in a few minutes."

"Promise?" her arms slipped around his neck, pressing her body firm against him.

"Promise…" he whispered hoarsely. Emma caught his lips in a brief kiss that ended to quickly, and with a tight smile she released him, walking slowly from the kitchen. He stared after her, wanting to follow her in that instant. But he didn't want to go to bed angry, deciding to clean the kitchen until his emotions were under control.

Emma reached the top of the stairs, listening as Henry told David about the metal plated armor, and all the other cool stuff hidden in the attic and various other rooms. Emma smiled, grateful that he and Gold seemed to get along in her absence; she had been so worried that Henry berated him with another round of questions. Mary stepped from the bathroom into the hallway, and David took her place instantly. Mary smiled as Emma approached them, returning the necklace that would protect Henry from his dreams. She hugged him tightly with a kiss good night. Henry stepped to the side as Mary opened her arms to her.

"Good night, Emma…" Mary whispered, hugging her tightly. Emma had wanted to talk to her mother, to discuss the evening and hear her thoughts. She just wanted to spend time together the way they used to. Emma clung to her, knowing that Mary was probably even more exhausted now that she had visited that world.

"Good night, Mare…" Mom was on the tip of her tongue and Emma wanted so badly to say it. Somehow, it just didn't seem the right time. She wanted them to move forward as a family, but in the back of her mind she knew that would never truly happen until she was honest with them. Emma pulled back, finally releasing her mother with a sad smile. Mary squeezed her hand tightly before letting go, walking silently into Emma's old bedroom. Henry grabbed her by the hand, pulling her to the room where he would be sleeping.

Emma paused when she saw where Henry was leading her; certain he had shown her to the wrong room. "Henry, are you sure Mr. Gold said you could stay in here?"

"Yep, Mr. Gold said it's just for tonight, but this way I'm right in the middle of all of you…" Emma was beyond speechless, holding her breath as Henry opened the door. In as long as she's lived here, Emma has never once seen this room. Gold never explicitly told her to stay out, but it was silently understood – this was Bae's room and it was off limits. Decorated in hunter green and brown accents, it reminded her of forests and playing outside – the carefree innocence of a boy's youth. Her heart constricted, struggling to control her tears at the crushing loss it represented.

Looking around the room was like traveling through time with all the worn, frayed toys that cluttered the small space – souvenirs of another life. Her breath caught in her throat as her eyes focused on a framed portrait hanging above the full size bed. The drawing was an old and tattered, the boy it portrayed had sad eyes, but his expression was one of pride and strength. Bae.

"Is that his son?" Henry asked, climbing into bed. His voice startled her, and Emma shook herself free of her thoughts.

"I think so…" Emma mumbled, pulling the covers over him. She fell to the edge of the bed, smiling down at her son as she smoothed the hair from his forehead. Having Henry here with her this morning and again tonight had meant the world to her and more than ever, she wanted her son with her. Though she was happy living here with Gold, she still regretted not having her own house that she and Henry could share together.

"Am I in trouble?" Henry asked nervously.

"Why would you be in trouble?"

"For asking Mr. Gold so many questions? I was just curious..."

"No, you're not in trouble…you're allowed to ask Mr. Gold questions especially now that he has a different role in your life. But talking about the war and his son make him sad, so try to limit those questions to one or two at a time, ok?"

"Ok…" Emma leaned down and hugged him, pressing her lips to the side of his head.

"I love you, Henry…"

"I love you too…" She kissed his forehead and pulled the covers higher as she rose from the bed. Emma left the door open, switching the light off as she stepped into the hallway. Her father stood leaning against the doorframe of her old room having already changed into his sweats.

"Mary's already back in bed, I just wanted to say goodnight…" Emma smiled with a nod of understanding. Without a word, she stepped slowly into his embrace, circling her arms around him. She released a heavy sigh as her head fell to his shoulder, allowing herself these precious moments to feel comforted – protected by strong arms that she knew would never hurt her. There was a moment of hesitation before his arms closed around her, his lips falling gently to her temple. She smiled as her body relaxed, swallowing hard the strangling emotion that always seemed to rush to the surface whenever she was in his arms.

For a moment he froze, afraid if he hugged her tighter she would startle and pull back. David fully expected her to pull away as she normally did, especially given the tension and his attitude tonight. But as long seconds passed, he realized with a smile that this was the longest she's been in his arms. Not only that, she clung to him, like being in his arms was something she needed…perhaps to feel comforted or loved. Emma exhaled heavily and he could feel her body relax in his arms, resting her head to his chest. He wanted to so badly to heal whatever wounds had been inflicted and it was torturous being kept in the dark – if only he could gain her trust overnight he could help her. He tightened his arms around her, kissing the crown of her head. What he wouldn't give for the chance to do this every night…

"Thank you…" she whispered softly, not moving an inch.

"For what?"

"For being here tonight, for staying, for just being supportive." He closed his eyes, instantly feeling guilty knowing that he would rather be anywhere but here, supporting their relationship.

"You don't have to thank me. I love you…" she pulled back at his words, looking almost confused as she stared at him. In a flash the confusion was gone, replaced with a small smile as her shoulders relaxed.

"I love you, too…" David bent down, kissing her forehead affectionately.

"Good night Emma…"

"Good night," He reluctantly released her as Emma turned away, and David watched silently as she walked to her own room. He stepped back into the bedroom and closed the door, doing his best to block the knowledge that it was only a matter of time until Rumpelstiltskin would be joining her. He slipped beneath the covers, relieved beyond measure when Mary curled alongside him. Her arm draped across his stomach, nestling her head against his chest.

"I'm sorry about earlier," she said softly.

"I should be the one apologizing…"

"Yes, you should, but I shouldn't have been so cold toward you all evening."

"And I'm sorry for trying to get out of dinner…I just wanted to make sure Spencer stayed behind bars. I figured we would have plenty of chances to have dinner together." he explained weakly.

"I know...so how did everything go when you guys left?" Mary snuggled closer, and David instinctively tightened his arms around her. He remembered all to well the nightmares that plagued her at the beginning of their marriage, knowing she just went back to that place willingly. He would wait for her to mention it if she wanted to talk about it.

"Fine…Gold wants Emma to lock Spencer in the psych ward – apparently he can't go to trial…"

"Well at least he'll still be locked up where he can't hurt us." David nodded silently as Mary yawned sleepily beside him. "But I was asking about you and Emma specifically." David was aware of that, knowing his wife wouldn't like what he had to say. He was really trying to accept all of this, it just so happened he was failing miserably.

"I don't know what to do, Mary, I don't know how to accept them as a couple. I mean, how do you do it?" he asked quickly.

"I saw how happy he made her, how excited she would become anytime she was going to see him. He was – and as strange as it sounds – is good for her."

"He doesn't deserve her." She scoffed, chuckling lightly against his chest.

"And I don't think there is anyone more aware of that fact than him. Didn't you see the way he looks at her?" she asked, an element of wonder in her soft voice. The same wonder that was in Gold's eyes anytime he smiled at Emma. It was almost impossible not to notice, or all of the flirtatious glances she gave him.

"Of course I did, I just… just because he looks at Emma a certain way doesn't undo all the misery he's caused – no matter what his reasons. I don't know how to just forget all that…you remember exactly what he was like." At that Mary huffed in annoyance, no doubt wanting to stop talking and sleep.

"Yes, I do, and I can see that he is trying very hard – and on most days is succeeding – at being a better man. It's not that it's easy for me David, but over time I watched Emma fall in love. And on more than one occasion, I witnessed how much he loves her."

"So, what, he feeds her some sob story and suddenly she's in love with him? How do we know that he isn't just manipulating the hell out of all of us right now?" he challenged bitterly. Her head lifted from his chest and he knew he'd crossed a line.

"Charming, stop it…just stop." Mary chided in hushed tones. "Did you say any of this to Emma?"

"Of course not, but –"

"Good, and you better keep it to yourself. I know that you despise him, but Emma is no child and she has survived on her own for her entire life. She can tell when anyone is lying and she knew exactly who he was and what he was capable of when all of this started. If she loves him, if she can trust him, then that is enough for me. I will not lose her Charming, learn to accept this." her head returned to his shoulder, and he breathed deeply to calm his nerves, holding her against him.

"I'm sorry, Snow, I didn't mean to upset you. She's my daughter too and I don't want to lose her either, I just…" Hate the man she loves...

"I know, its ok. This hasn't been easy for any of us, just give it time Charming. It's been a long day, let's get some rest while we still can."

"I love you, Snow…"

"I love you too," he nestled his face against her hair, this was all he's wanted since 3am this morning when Henry woke up screaming. He allowed his eyes to close, trying to force the whirlwind of his thoughts to cease.

The house was overwhelmingly silent as Gold turned out the last few lights, checking the lock on the front door. With the dishes done and his anger reigned in, he limped slowly up the stairs. Switching on the hallway light, he peered into Bae's room checking on the sleeping boy in his bed. He tried to picture his son's face in place of Henry's, allowing himself to imagine what it would actually be like to have Bae here with him and Emma. He shook his head, turning the light off and heading toward his own room. He still didn't know if he was looking for a boy or a man.

"Mr. Gold…?" came Henry's sleepy voice. Gold turned back, switching the light back on as he stood in the doorway, thinking Henry had another visit with Aurora.

"Yes, Henry…" He rolled onto his back, holding his gaze silently as a sympathetic smile formed on his lips.

"I really hope you find your son…I bet you were a really good dad…" The words caught him off guard, and it was all he could to swallow the lump climbing up his throat. He was good father once, when he was still a good man in the eyes of his son.

"Thank you, Henry…" he said tightly, doing his best to smile. "Good night, young man…"

"Good night," Henry rolled back onto his side, and once again Gold switched off the light. He took several deep breaths on the way to his room; he didn't know what he said or did that would earn such a compliment, but he wished he did. He would make it a point to do it more often. Emma was tucked snuggly under the comforter when Gold stepped quietly into the bedroom. Their eyes locked and she smiled, watching as he approached the bed.

"I thought you would've been asleep by now…" He whispered.

"Well, I did just sleep for like four hours before dinner…I'm not exactly tired." He fell heavily to the edge of the bed, kicking off his shoes. "Everything ok?"

"I'm fine…" Emma moved behind him, her legs surrounding him as she pressed her chest against his back. He couldn't help but smile, Henry's words repeating in his mind. "You have an amazing son, Emma…"

"I know…but sadly, I can't take credit. I had nothing to do with raising him." Her hands slid around his torso, unbuttoning his shirt from behind him.

"What are you doing?" he asked gruffly.

"I'm taking your shirt off…" he quirked an eyebrow and glanced in her direction. Before he could ask the question, she was already giggling softly in his ear. "Relax. I can practically hear you thinking. We aren't going to do anything…"

"Then why take my shirt off? I'm perfectly capable of doing that myself…"

"Maybe I just like undressing you…" she said seductively against his ear as he assisted her in pulling his shirt off. He stifled a moan as her hands slid onto his shoulders, her thumbs rubbing the base of his neck. "And because I can feel everything boiling just beneath the surface. You just found out Cora is coming here, my son is asleep in your son's bedroom and my parents are down the hall. And I have a feeling that you have an unpleasant history with Captain Hook…"

"I have an unpleasant history with most people…"

"True. And you don't have to tell me tonight, but I know that you're anything but fine. I've been waiting all day to get into bed with you and I don't want you stressed out." Her lips pressed to his temple, keeping her pressure light as her hands massaged his shoulders. There was no point in arguing with her as he allowed his eyes to close, leaning into her kiss. In slow circles her fingers worked their way down his spine to his tailbone, repeating the process on the way back up. He felt lightheaded as if her hands were inadvertently casting a spell over him, one that resulted in his body's complete relaxation. His thoughts began to cease as her moved over the expanse of his back.

"So why is my son so amazing? Did he ask you a million more questions?" she asked teasingly.

"Surprisingly no; instead he simply gave me his life story. He's just a really…good boy, a pure heart." Like Bae. He went on to explain the progression of their night, and how Henry made him promise not to hurt Emma. But he refrained from telling her that Henry gave his blessing concerning their relationship – that was something she deserved to hear from her son.

"Aw, that's so cute. He really is such a good kid, it's mindboggling Regina raised him."

"Indeed…" Gold murmured, losing himself once more in the magic of her hands. Cora and Hook were a fleeting memory in his mind and his nerves were ceasing their enraged trembling. "You're going to put me to sleep, love…"

"That's the idea…" she whispered. "So, do you want to tell me what's wrong?" his eyes opened, and all at once the spell was broken.

"No, not at all actually…" he admitted breathlessly.

"It's ok – if you don't want to tell me you don't –"

"I was in love with Cora…" he blurted out quickly before he lost his nerve. He held his breath, waiting for her disgusted response. But her hands never ceased their movements, slipping around his torso and returning to his chest. She kissed his shoulder, resting her head against the same spot.

"Did she love you in return?" he turned his head to face her, staring incredulously at her calm reply. Was she not disgusted, or at the very least, angry? Her simple smile remained; her eyes still as she leveled him with a supportive and gentle glare. A small smile formed on his lips as he stared at her – after all this time she never ceased to amaze him. Her hands still rubbed his shoulders soothingly as he dropped his gaze to the floor.

"I don't know," he whispered hoarsely. "We were supposed to run away together, but she married another man." He gripped her hand in his, turning his body to face her. He brought her knuckles to his lips in thanks, smiling as he held her hand between his own. "I guess you could say she would've been the true love of the dark one. She wasn't afraid of me and she shared – even nurtured – the darkest parts of my soul. But in the end, she craved only power and vengeance, going as far as to rip her own heart out in order to get it." Horror flashed in Emma's eyes, shaking her head incredulously.

"She…ripped – what? How is that even possible?"

"I could scarcely believe it myself. I had never met someone that not only matched, but surpassed my desire for power. In my own foolishness I taught her magic, but when she removed her heart…I realized she was only using me. It's why Regina didn't have a mother who loved her all her life."

"Is that the reason you're so nervous for her to come here…" she asked in disbelief.

"Not at all. With the absence of her heart Cora is completely incapable of feeling anything. She wants power and she wants her daughter and will stop at nothing to get it. Emma, I just…if she makes it over here I may have to become the man you hate in order…" Emma pressed her fingers to his lips cutting him off.

"Is that what you're afraid of?" she asked incredulously. He could only nod in response. "Don't worry about it. If Cora makes it through, you won't be the only one fighting her…and if you need to fight magic with magic then so be it. We'll cross that bridge when we come to it."

"It doesn't bother you that I loved her? That I may need to become a monster in order to defeat one?"

"I've had some experience with monsters…trust me, you aren't that bad. And why would I judge you on a relationship that happened decades ago that has nothing to do with us? People fall in love, Gold, it happens. It's just one more layer peeled back, revealing more of the conundrum that is you."

"You're truly amazing…" she smiled brightly, tossing her hair back in mock vanity.

"So you've said," Gold laughed lightly with her, and almost instantly her smile faded, meeting his gaze once more. "So, um…what about Hook?" she asked hesitantly. Gold took a deep breath, hoping to discuss this more fully at another time.

"Hook, or Killian Jones as I knew him, is the man Milah ran off with. I'm not worried about him, it's just inconvenient."

"Oh…" confusion clouded her mind as the information sank in. "I'm sorry, shouldn't he be dead by now? Or Is he immortal too?"

"No he's not; he must've found a portal to a world where time stood still…" Using the bean that was meant to reunite him with his son… Gold thought bitterly.

"Neverland?" Emma finished for him.

"Indeed…" his next words were on the tip of his tongue, the revelation that he ripped out Milah's heart and Hook would only want his vengeance. "Now, I don't know about you, but I am ready for bed. Unlike you I didn't take a four hour nap today."

Emma smiled and said nothing, stretching her body in the center of the bed as he changed into his sweats. While she wasn't thrilled hearing about his past with Cora, she couldn't help but smile. She was finally starting to understand his fear of letting her in, of allowing himself to open up to her. First Milah abandoned him and then Cora; Emma could only assume that by the time Belle came around he was simply too guarded and that's why he sent her away – he couldn't risk a third betrayal. It seemed he had no problem recounting the facts of his life to her with calm, disturbing detachment, keeping any and all emotion trapped beneath that perfectly controlled exterior. She smiled as he pulled the covers back slipping into bed beside her – he was finally letting her in.

"Feel better?" she asked, waiting for him to get comfortable.

"Much better, thank you my love…"

"You're welcome…" she said, draping her arm across his abdomen, nestling into his side. His arm closed tighter around her shoulders, pressing a kiss to the crown of her head. "I thought this day would never end."

"I imagine you did – a lot happened today. Too much…" he whispered. Propping herself on her elbow she looked down at him, her hand tracing small circles over his chest.

"Can I ask you something?" Emma asked softly. Gold hmm'd in reply, his fingers dragging lightly along her spine. Apparently, she really wasn't tired. "Do you want to go back to the Enchanted Forest?"

"That depends on if I find my son. He came here in order to get rid of my magic, if I go back without him, it just feels like I'd be abandoning him all over again. If I do find him, I don't imagine he'll want to go back. My curse will still be in effect. Why do you ask?"

"Just curious…with everything that happened today I was thinking about it." his hand closed over hers, stilling it against his chest.

"You don't want to go back…" It wasn't a question.

"After how hard I just fought to get back here, absolutely not!" she said ardently, trying to control the volume of her voice. "There are ogre's there and everything is destroyed. As much as I hate this world it's my home; I like the lack of ogre's and magic and lynch mobs."

"Yea, I'm not looking forward to another ogre war. Staying here is definately the safer option…" his voice trailed off, before a full smile formed on his lips. "And speaking of our future, what did you think of Henry's idea of us getting married?" he asked, a teasing edge to his voice. Emma shook her head, not quite certain how he made that jump in their conversation.

"I think Henry is a hopeless romantic with an unhealthy obsession for true love and happy endings…" Emma replied playfully.

"Wow, spoken like a true cynic." He laughed incredulously. She held his gaze, pressing her lips to his chest.

"But…I think if you ask me properly you just might get lucky." His eyebrows furrowed in confusion, and it was all Emma could do not to slap him.

"You would marry me?" Did he really still doubt her love for him?

"Is it that hard to believe? We have been living together and sleeping together for some time now."

"I just…I guess I never really thought that you would…" he admitted sheepishly, barely meeting her eyes. Emma shook her head as she stared at him in disbelief, those words hurt more than she ever thought they could.

"What do I have to say to convince you that I love you? Or do you honestly believe after all this time that I'm just using you?" he rolled her over, holding her gaze intently as he shook his head in denial.

"Emma, no, that's not what I meant to imply at all, love. I know that you love me…its just, relationships haven't exactly worked out for me. I don't like to allow myself to hope...that way I'm never disappointed."

"You are not that hard to love. Your past can be problematic when you tell me severely disturbing things very nonchalantly, but I love you anyway. I just want you to trust me…" he forced a tight smile, the doubt still lingering in his eyes.

"Are you sure it's me you should be with, Emma? I'm lame, your parents hate me, people will always want to extract their pound of flesh in vengeance…and I'm not getting any younger, Emma."

"You're also not getting any older either…" his eye brows flashed as a crooked smile formed on his lips. "In a few years we'll look closer in age and then no one would think twice about an age difference and we could grow old together."

"Touché, dearie…" he laughed, staring at her in amazement. "I think I've underestimated you. I thought all of this dark curse stuff would just be too much to deal with, and that you'd eventually leave me."

"Well, its not easy to deal with, but I know that it isn't all you either; I love you...now come over here and kiss me goodnight."

"Would you like me to tuck you in as well?" he teased; a seductive edge to his voice as he moved over her body.

"Not with Henry and my parents down the hall." he kissed her with tender urgency, long and deep as their tongues entwined. She melted right there in his arms, whimpering in protest as he broke the kiss. He whispered in her ear, she shivered at the warmth of his breath against her ear.

"Pity…" his lips closed over hers, moaning in surprise as she rolled him onto his back. She swallowed the sound, never thinking she would be so bitter to be in the same house as her family.

"Or we could do another weekend away at your cabin now that my father is deputy…"

"While that is a truly enticing offer…" his breath caught in his throat as Emma teased a line of bites and kisses down his neck. "I doubt your father would be agreeable to such a scandalous arrangement…"

"Well luckily for us, I am an adult and won't be asking for my father's permission." she bit his shoulder playfully, a challenging grin on her lips as her eyes returned to his.

"Don't get me started, dearie, or there will be no stopping…" she groaned, rolling off with an exasperated sigh.

"Oh, fine…ruin all my fun why don't you. I'm not the one that invited my parents to sleep over." he turned the light out as he rolled onto his back, Emma attaching herself like glue to his side.

"I promise you after all this Cora business passes, I am all yours…"

"I'll hold you to that…"

"I'm looking forward to it…good night love,"

"Good night…" Emma lay awake a while longer, stroking his chest and abdomen, listening as he fell asleep. She now knew the coming days would be dark and and challenging, and even then she would be telling her parents what happened. It was time to forward...she wanted her family.

Hope you enjoyed it! Please review!