A/N: Thank you for the great start! Last chapter was pretty short, but this one will make up for the size of it. In addition, I want to add that I have never been to The Carlyle, but I used pictures on their website to help with the descriptions. Hopefully I've done it justice. Also, there is some smut at the end of this chapter so if you don't like, then skip over it. And don't forget to leave behind a lovely review! There are some cold days heading this way and the reviews will make this writer very warm and toasty inside!
Part 2
Avonlea
Belle promised herself she would stop tormenting herself with Rumple's letter. It was no consequence at this moment, not when she had other things to think about: mainly, Lily-Rose.
Since she was born, Lily-Rose had been quite aware for a newborn. Hannah often remarked on this to her mistress. The fact that she had such big, expressive eyes that were absorbing everything in front of her was unsettling to some. Even Gaston was a little flummoxed when he would spend time with his daughter. It didn't help that Lily-Rose would scream bloody murder whenever the King tried holding her. Only the embrace of her mother and Hannah would lull the infantile princess to slumber.
While that may not seem odd to some, it was the fact that she would not get used to her father that others perceived as strange.
Gaston, in all appearances, did not seem to be in distress over the matter of his daughter's rejection, but in private, Belle could see it was killing him. She knew he wanted a son and even though he was happy that the baby was healthy… he couldn't help but reconcile the baby's treatment of him to the truth that he was disappointed. Her husband's anguish did make her compassionate to his plight, and as a dutiful and good wife, Belle tried to assuage his worries the best she could. She suggested he speak to her, tell her stories, sing perhaps… anything so Lily-Rose would become familiar with his voice, and even help Belle put her to sleep so she would not be afraid of him.
So he did.
But only under Belle's supervision he commanded. He didn't trust himself to be alone with the baby and was too afraid he would do something irreversible if left to his own devices.
Every night the King and Queen would sing lullabies to the princess and tuck her into her crib before Gaston retired to his chambers. It panged Belle see it was Gaston that was kissing Lily-Rose's forehead good-night, and not Rumple. And, yes, for her husband's benefit, she was accommodating him in this task of fatherhood, but it never worked out the way he wanted.
For every night once Gaston's lips pressed against the little one's forehead… Lily-Rose would wail and shriek until he left the room. It was a ritual that took place daily, and eventually, Gaston quit the bedtime task. He could not bear watching his daughter scorn his presence and informed Belle that once Lily-Rose reached some semblance of understanding… then he would permit his visitations once again. Until then, he would stay away to avoid further digression and focus on building Avonlea's defenses in case the Dark One decided to return for revenge against his former master.
It distressed Belle that he would think Rumple would attack them, but she understood the predicament that her husband was facing. The people were terrified that the Dark One would come back to kill them all, and despite the time passing without a trace of magic or anything to indicate a potential attack; as Avonlea's leaders they must be prepared regardless. Of course, Belle didn't think he would hurt her people. If he wanted to, then he had the opportunity as soon as she handed the dagger back over to him. Even if he wanted to bide his time, there was no escaping the Dark One's magic. This prolonged silence and inaction gave light to Belle's beliefs that Rumple would not be returning to Avonlea for revenge. Yet she could not admit this to anyone lest she expose her knowledge of his escape and her intimacies with him.
No, her silence was all she could offer at the moment. As long as Rumple didn't strike, then there was no need to search for him and invite trouble. Well, Belle did have to state her opinion about it to prevent Gaston from sending out their soldiers. She was grateful he recognized her advice and did not order any of his men to look for the Dark One. If Rumplestiltskin was not seeking blood at the moment, then the King of Avonlea would not send anyone to incur that bloodlust if something should go awry.
Staying within the castle's walls and protection was the best option for their people.
She knew the idea was unpopular for those who were hungering for a war and for the glory to boast that they destroyed the Dark One. But Gaston was adamant that as long as there wasn't the need to fight, there was no sensible reason to find it. Belle admired her husband for his insistence to keep war off the table, and once more she was forced to admit that her father had chosen wisely for Avonlea to have a decent leader. Gaston was doing everything he could to ensure her people's protection and she was sincerely grateful for this.
Though, for how long he could maintain this censor, she did not know. She prayed to the Gods that her husband's advisors would heed his warnings and declarations and forget the subject of war for the time being.
In the meantime, a new problem was arising for the royal family. Amongst the people there were concerns about the princess. Belle and Gaston, as King and Queen, were still beloved and adored by all within their kingdom and the news of the birth of a princess was well-received and celebrated. When the time came for the first reveal, the people all cheered and applauded the new member of the family, and at once, songs and poems were inspired by Lily-Rose's beauty. Yet, over time the sentiment towards the princess began to change and it all started with murmurs within the castle. From there, the rumors spread throughout the kingdom. However, as revered and loved as the King and Queen were… the people dared not speak such rumors aloud lest they incur the wrath of their leaders. Not that Belle and Gaston would punish or throw people in jail, but it would be a huge sign of disrespect if it reached their ears.
So the people kept their mouths shut and spoke of it only in the privacy of their own homes; although, not all were discreet or careful.
As it happened, Hannah had been in the market buying some treats for her Queen and a new dolly for her princess. She was rearranging her purchases in her basket when she noticed Samuel, one of the stable's groomsman, heading to the tavern. Her face burned as she caught sight of his sandy-brown trousers hugging his backside rather tautly. He was a handsome man and Hannah admired his gentle way with training the horses. He was always kind, always nodding in greeting to her when she was passing by, and yet… he didn't know her name. She could not fault him. She rarely visited the stables and her duties never required her to go there, so she could never think of a good reason to be there anyways. At least when her mistress went to the stables then she could follow, but on her own… Hannah lacked the courage.
But seeing him in the village and watching him step inside the tavern… Hannah could recall her Queen's words echoing in her head: "Do the brave thing and bravery will follow." And right now, the brave thing was telling her to go into that tavern and approach Samuel and tell him hello. Maybe sit for a conversation.
Straightening her shoulders, Hannah marched into that tavern and as her eyes immediately sought Samuel's tall frame, she began to move towards him. At the last second, she lost the nerve and veered off to sit an empty table near the bar where he sat with a couple of other men. With her back facing him, Hannah desperately tried to think what in the world was she going to do and say, when Samuel's voice reached her ears.
"I'm telling you… Something's unnatural about that baby princess."
There was a low murmur in agreement and while the men spoke… Hannah's eyes grew wider with each passing second, her hand flying to cover her mouth. This was not good. Not good at all.
And worse of all, she now knew Samuel's true character and her attraction to him immediately vanished as soon as he uttered those vile words against her mistress and little mistress. Simply thinking of her sweet, kind-hearted Queen had Hannah up and walking out the door in a pace that she hoped wasn't suspicious as her heart raced.
Oh no… this wouldn't do at all.
xXx
It was such a lovely day with the sun shining bright that Belle couldn't resist the tempting call to stroll the gardens. With Lily-Rose slung on her hip, she showed her daughter the roses in bloom and pointed as a butterfly flew past them. Her face beamed as Lily-Rose couldn't stop clapping her hands and gasping and shrieking in delight at each wonder. At four months old, Lily-Rose was becoming quite a chatterbox and she was showing signs of great understanding around her. Belle was filled with such pride and love for her daughter that she had no doubt that Lily-Rose would be a handful, especially for the Council.
Then again, Lily-Rose was highly inquisitive as her mother and opinionated if her babbling was anything to go by. Of course, she was already trying to form words and speak, but would get upset if she couldn't get it right. Belle couldn't help the fond chuckle at how Lily-Rose would scrunch up her rosy cheeks, her tiny brows knitted together, as she would try to pronounce whatever thoughts she had in her head. Even now the princess was trying to say "butterfly" from the way she pursed her lips and puffed her cheeks.
"B-b-b-," Lily-Rose started but couldn't seem to get pass the first letter.
"Butterfly," Belle supplied, sitting down on the grass and rearranging Lily-Rose on her lap. "That's a tough word. How about we try Mama? Ma—ma," Belle repeated as her daughter watched her lips move carefully. "Can you say Mama?"
"Ma—" Lily-Rose started when Hannah shouted from the distance.
"Your majesty!" the faithful maid cried, breathlessly as she ran to Belle.
The beauty frowned in concern, rising, as Hannah panted beside her. She waited for Hannah to catch her breath before asking: "What is it? Your face is so pale… is something wrong?"
"Yes, my lady," Hannah said, gasping. "I heard—oh dear what I heard—"
"You need water. Let's go inside and I'll—"
Hannah's hand shot out and grasped Belle's arm, stopping her immediately. "No!" she insisted. "Not in there. It's better here."
"All right. What's wrong?" Belle questioned.
"My lady, please when I tell you this… I fear what will happen if King Gaston hears this. This could spell trouble for all if we don't take heed."
At once, Belle's alarms were up. "Okay, Hannah. Tell me what it is you fear King Gaston would hear."
Licking her lips, Hannah began:
"This bears no weight on you or your husband but it does concern Princess Lily-Rose. I know that servants and the villagers talk and you've told me to pay them no mind. I have done so in the past and now… I fear I could not hold back my ears anymore. You see, your highness, the people are talking and I have heard your own servant speak of this, which only seems to confirm the rumors and gossip in the kingdom. Ever since the Dark One has left, the people were naturally terrified he would return to seek his revenge on his captors. Since it has been quiet for so many months and the King has not ordered his men to find him… it would seem the Dark One has forgotten Avonlea. Yet, some are saying he is only biding his time and striking when we least expect it.
"However, there are those that believe he has struck back. That he unleashed the worse kind of revenge on the kingdom right under our nose."
"Slow down Hannah," Belle interrupted at the maid's rapid pace. "What do you mean the people have been talking about Lily-Rose?"
"Well, you see, there had been many a king with daughters as firstborns or sometimes as an only child in these lands. Does that mean they mourn for the lack of a son? Not necessarily since they can raise their daughters well and choose a fine husband for them to rule their kingdom. In fact, most kings usually stand beside their daughters with pride and dote upon them like any father would do. Your father did with you as has King Midas and King Leopold. However, King Gaston cannot be in the same room with his child. It is no secret that he purposely stands with you in the center so the fair princess does not get upset and that he rarely acknowledges her presence when they are together.
"To the people, this does not bode well. If anything it's a sign."
"A sign? What do you mean?"
"The Dark One!" Hannah hissed. "They fear the Dark One has done something to the princess!"
Belle wanted to suppress the bubble of laughter that began to rise, but she couldn't help as it choked out of her. "That is the most absurd thing I have ever heard!"
"Think about it my lady," Hannah went on. "Besides the King, the Dark One is the other, uh, man to spend time with you. He was your protector. He went wherever you went. And since you spent a lot of time with him alone… it was assumed he could have cast his spell over the womb without you knowing. Or when she was born. They believed she was enchanted my lady. That he cursed the infant to bring havoc and trouble to the kingdom."
"All because Lily-Rose does not get along with Gaston?" Belle mused. "That is ridiculous!"
"Even I had to admit the rumor was not sound. Anyone with children would tell you that it sometimes takes the child a while to get use to their parents. Why, my Mama had told me I would kick and wail whenever my Papa would pick me up. She told me it was because he wasn't around much when she was pregnant. In fact, it was his voice that scared me so. Over time I began to recognize who he was and what he meant to me before I stopped my fits. What King Gaston is experiencing is the same thing as my Papa did with me. There is no shame in it, but he should not let that get to him or prevent him from being with his daughter. Forgive my bluntness, your majesty. I was speaking my mind."
"Of course I do not mind and I've encouraged you to speak freely around me Hannah," Belle told her. "I appreciate your honesty. At least I know I can trust you. I have assured my husband that it would take time for Lily-Rose to become accustomed to him, but I do fear that it might take longer than either of us would like."
"I understand. But keep in mind, your highness; the people do believe that this is the doing of the Dark One. They see the start of his vengeance by using the little one's disdain for her father. From there… Gods know where it could turn or what they might think happen if the rife between them deepens. I do fear for her safety your highness."
Belle smiled lightly and placed an assuring hand on her shoulder. "Do not fret Hannah. Lily-Rose is well-protected and the people do know better than to do something rash. If anything, we do promote and encourage them to request an audience so we can help them."
"But it's not just her, my lady," Hannah continued, her bottom lip quivering. "It is you as well."
"Me?"
At the incredulous expression on her mistress' countenance, Hannah cheeks flushed scarlet. "I may not know how to read much, but I know the letter was from him," she emphasized, indicating the only letter that could be in question. "I know that whatever it contained brought you unhappiness and sadness. I can only surmise what he had written and my heart does weep for you my lady. For you and the little princess."
"Hannah, explain yourself," Belle demanded, her voice above a whisper.
Hannah fiddled with her hands. "I want you to know that I kept my silence. Even when I suspected… I never breathed a word about it to anyone. I would never betray you, my lady; not after how good you have been to me. Even though I was worried for you, I trusted you knew what you were doing. I know you never would do something impetuous or dangerous. So I took it upon myself to see if I was right. I know it was a risk for me, but you are so brave and I wanted to make sure you were safe. I could not let my fears stand in my way; hence, I went directly to the Dark One."
"Hannah—"
"I must tell you this," she insisted. "I went to him and although he did not directly deny it, but there was no way he could disguise his feelings. I know he loves you and I know he loves the little princess. What he has done… I can only assume it was a great sacrifice, even though it distresses you. But regardless what the letter told you… you cannot lie what is in your heart and I saw it in his eyes. He loves you my lady."
"Say it again Hannah," Belle pleaded, her heart fluttering against her breast. Hope, a bright and furling surge, took hold of her and she could not dare, let alone dream that it was possible… that the letter really and truly was a falsehood. "Please."
"He loves you," Hannah reiterated. "There is no denying that look on a man's face. It was the same my father wore around my mother and I know it well. He loves you and I believe—" The maid's voice trailed off with a sharp gasp, alerting Belle as she whipped her head behind them to see what it was that startled Hannah.
Like the maid, Belle could not stop gaping as she watched Lily-Rose sitting on the grass, her arms lifted as she rotated her wrists in a circular movement. In front of her were several plucked flowers and blades of grass twisting in front of her to create a crown of roses. Gesturing to herself, the crown rested on top of her curls as Lily-Rose looked up at her mother and giggled.
"Hannah," Belle said. "This must not be spoken."
"Nay your highness," she replied solemnly. "My lady… the princess…"
"Magic," Belle finished, nodding. "My baby can do magic."
Whirling around to face Hannah, Belle clasped her hands over the maid's as her gaze bore into hers. Excitement filled her face. "I knew it had to be! I just knew! But I need to make sure… I must know for certain."
While her mind was in a tailspin of ideas, Belle knew she had to confirm her suspicions before she did something that would undoubtedly change her course forever.
xxXXxx
Present
The plane landed in one piece much to Rumple's relief. However, the descent did disturb his stomach and by the time they walked out the gate… he was in a half-run to find the nearest bathroom. Henry followed behind him, clutching his mouth. The girls could only shake their heads and exchange secretive smiles at their respective males' intolerance to the flight.
"If this is how it's going to be, then going back to Storybrooke is going to be another thrill ride," Emma commented wryly, folding her arms over her chest.
"Well, in all honesty, it was their first time flying," Belle replied.
"Yeah and you and this rascal here too, but you two are holding up."
Belle grinned. "Thanks to my cursed memories. I'd flown many times and Lily-Rose… well, she is rarely affected by anything."
At the sound of her name, Lily-Rose gave a big toothy smile. "Fly again?"
"Yes we will. But not until we find your brother," Belle told her in a gentle tone.
A groan came from behind them as both Rumple and Henry emerged—their complexions looking less green. Leaning heavily on his cane, Rumple vehemently shook his head. "We're not going back on that contraption," he said.
"Ah, what's the matter Gold?" Emma taunted with a smirk gloating on her features. "Did the great and powerful Dark One get a little airsick?"
Fixating a glare that would have melted her in her spot (if they were back home), Rumple bared his teeth in a snarl. "You find this funny dearie?"
"Oh yes," Emma continued. "This is fricking hilarious."
"Let's see how funny you think it is when I ram my cane up—"
Belle covered the rest of his threat with her hand, a warning in her eyes. "Really Rumple," she chided him. "We do have children present and I don't want our daughter to be repeating this."
Tossing her head over her shoulder at the Savior, Belle fixed her with a look that meant business. "And you… you should be a little nicer to my fiancé, even though I know how difficult it can be when he does behave irrationally."
"Irrationally?!" Rumple exclaimed.
"Yes Rumple," Belle said, nodding. "It's only a plane and we will have to get on it to go back home. How else are we going to return?"
"We can drive…"
"You seriously want to do a road trip?" Emma interjected. "No way. I did not sign up for that."
"You owe me a favor," Rumple reminded her, shaking his finger. "You have to follow my terms."
"Oh no. Once I help you find your son then the favor's done. I'm no longer under contract."
"A little gratitude will go a long way dearie. I did make sure you escaped Regina's wrath as a babe—"
"You did not just throw that in! I was alone for twenty-eight years—"
"Poor you. I've been separated from my son for centuries—"
"You're a rat bast—"
"Enough!" Belle bellowed, startling the two bickering adults and the children plus a few curious onlookers. Realizing they had an audience, Belle lowered her voice but her tone held all the severity as a true monarch does. "Listen to me carefully. We are here for Bae. Got it? Bae. This has nothing to do with deals or favors or whatever. We are doing this together because—" Here, she turned to face her fiancé and jabbed her nail into his chest, "We need Emma to help navigate this world. Let's admit it. Even with our cursed memories we still wouldn't know what to do and she's our best shot at locating our son." Turning on the smirking Savior, Belle also poked her in the shoulder. "I don't care that you're Snow and Charming's daughter. You will treat my fiancé with some respect for he did, in fact, saved your life. Was it ideal? No. But you're alive and reunited with your family. And if you want to be upset about it… fine—don't place all the blame on him. I had a hand in it too so you can be mad at the two of us, but wait until we're back in Storybrooke safe and sound. Got it?"
Placing both hands on her hips, she raised her brow at Rumple and Emma waiting for their response. She was pleased that the two did look ashamed, which meant it was progress in this unconventional friendship. Good, she thought. They're acting like children fighting over the last sweet. I suppose it was best to get this out of their system now than later when we need them to work together.
"Well?" she said impatiently.
"Got it." "Yes dear." The two mumbled while eyeing the other with disdain.
Well… it was close to reconciliation. "Good," Belle proclaimed. "Let's find our baggage and go to the hotel. I could use some rest from this jet lag."
Spinning on her heels, Belle began to march towards the baggage claim area with Rumple and Emma trailing behind shooting glares at each other. Henry and Lily-Rose could only watch in stunned amazement. Taking her hand, Henry followed them, his countenance full of reverence for the future Mrs. Gold.
"Wow… I didn't think Beauty from Beauty and the Beast could do that. She scolded my Mom."
Lily-Rose giggled. "Papa's in trouble."
Henry couldn't help but also laugh at that. "Yeah. I know Mr. Gold is the Dark One, but that was pretty cool that Mrs. Hunter—"
"That's enough Mr. Mills," Rumple said, materializing in front of them causing Henry to jump.
Fighting back a blush, Henry nodded sheepishly. "Sorry Mr. Gold."
Rumple waved his hand indifferently. "And its Ms. French for now," he corrected. The last thing he wanted to hear anyone say was Belle's former married name, even if it was a cursed one.
He led the children where Belle and Emma were waiting for their suitcases to appear. Immediately, Lily-Rose was taken with the conveyor belt as it revealed each piece of luggage and other belongings from their flight. She wanted to see it move faster so she raised her hand in the air and frowned when the machine continued to move at its same pace. Clenching her tiny jaw, she tried again and instead of the speed she wanted… the machine stopped completely.
Emma stared at her speechlessly. "I-I thought you said you couldn't do magic," she hissed at Rumple.
He shrugged. "I said magic works differently. How am I supposed to know Lily-Rose's would work?"
Rolling her eyes, Belle pushed between them and kneeled beside her daughter. "Lily," she cooed. "This isn't the place to practice. We talked about this at home. Let it do what it has to do."
Lily-Rose pouted but her mother's firm look was all she needed to obey. Bringing her hand down to her side, Lily-Rose screwed up her face in concentration, squeezing her eyes shut. To any other person… it would look like she was about to explode into a major temper tantrum, and Emma was seriously expecting it, but there was a low wheeze and groan and the machine was working again.
Satisfied and concerned, Belle scooped up her daughter and set her on her hip so there would be no more incidents with magic. She just hoped that no one else connected her daughter to the machine's sudden pause and working again. Walking back to Rumple, Belle brushed against him as he automatically wrapped his arm around her waist.
Emma and Henry looked at each other before the blonde lifted her eyes to the ceiling. "God I hope this doesn't take long."
xxXXxx
Once they claimed their luggage, and experienced no more accidents with the product of True Love's powers, Emma guided the group to the taxis outside.
"Stay here and I'll find us one," she told them, not before giving Gold a look to warn him not to challenge her.
If Belle wasn't next to him or his daughter, then he would have changed the Savior to a frog for irony's sake. That is… if his magic cooperated.
With Emma gone, Belle tilted her head and mused, "You know Rumple. I was thinking you were right about the car back to Storybrooke."
"Oh? So you agree with me?" he asked hopefully.
Belle nodded as a grin played on her lips. "Yes. We could have a little impromptu honeymoon and see the world. Of course, Lily-Rose would fly back with Emma and Henry and Bae if he wants to come with us. Once we're married it might be difficult to leave Storybrooke again."
She had a point and the idea sounded good to him. Happy, Belle hummed with delight as she reached to him a quick peck on the lips.
"Okay…" Emma said, interrupting the mood. "I got us a taxi. Really Gold… there are children present."
Rumple growled under his breath while Belle chuckled. "Be nice honey."
"You will have to make a deal with me sweetheart if you want me to be nice," he said.
Moving Lily-Rose away so she wouldn't overhear, Belle whispered in his ear and his eyebrows disappeared above his hairline.
"Deal," he choked.
"I think it's kind of cute," Henry chipped in as he followed his mom. Emma sighed. "Listen, kid. When you're older, you will see it from my point of view and 'cute' is not what I'm thinking."
They all piled into the cab with Henry, Belle, and Rumple in the back with Lily-Rose on Belle's lap. Emma took the seat in the front so she could direct the driver and make sure he didn't take advantage of them.
Gold hadn't been kidding when he said that he spared no expense when the trip was planned. He reserved rooms at The Carlyle, a five-star hotel that charged more than a pretty penny to spend a night. Even Emma had to admit he had impeccable taste and was more than happy that he was paying for the whole stay. There was no way in Hell she could afford one night let alone five. At least it felt more like a vacation rather than an errand.
The hotel's lobby was in one word: shiny.
The lighting wasn't blaring at all but they were bright. The sleek floor was so spotless that it reflected everything. Stark orange-yellow couches lined up against the wall with a table and vase of flowers and mirrors hanging above. Emma was half-expecting Regina's image to appear being the Evil Queen and all and with an infinity for mirrors.
Of course, both she and Henry could not stop being slack-jawed over the finery of the hotel as soon as they all entered. Even Belle and Lily-Rose were impressed and couldn't help but gush over the décor. Gold, on the other hand, barely paid attention and went immediately to the main desk to check in.
Belle frowned. She knew Rumple had a lot on his mind but he should at least try to enjoy himself. He might need it in case finding Bae turns out sour. Or worse… Then again, her fiancé needed the support and she was going to give it to him regardless of what happens.
Once Rumple had the keys, both Henry and Lily-Rose announced they were hungry. Emma grinned as she rubbed her stomach.
"I could use some grub. How about you two?" she asked.
Belle nodded. "I could eat. Rumple?"
"I'll pass. You guys can go without me." At Belle's glance, he quickly added, "I'll order room service if I feel peckish."
It wasn't the answer she wanted, but Belle knew not to press. More than likely, he needed time alone to prepare himself for tomorrow. She gave him another nod and kiss. "We'll be right back."
As for their luggage, Rumple already directed the bellhop to help carry it up to the fourth floor. With his family and Emma and Henry gone, Rumple was able to reflect and panic without the unwanted attention.
After he tipped the bellhop (he gave the lad extra for unpacking their belongings. He couldn't wait to see the Savior's expression when she discovers that everything of hers was handled by a stranger. Then and only then would he go back to his best behavior), Rumple stood by the window and looked out below the bustling New York City streets. There was so many people moving about and he couldn't help but wonder if Bae was down there amongst them right now.
Would he recognize his Papa? And if he did… what would he do? Would he be happy to see Rumple? Or would he flee?
So many questions were churning in his head to the point where his stomach began to feel like lead. He ripped himself away from the window and limped to the cushiony chair and sat down, burying his face with his hands.
He really, truly felt ill.
Of course part of it was anticipation but he was a nervous wreck.
Recalling the last time he saw his son, Rumple quickly got up and moved to the posh bathroom to empty his stomach before he would be forced to pay the costs to clean the carpet. When there was nothing left but dry heaves, Rumple flushed the toilet and splashed some cool water on his face to settle the heat rising on his cheeks.
For a good, long time, Rumple stared at his reflection.
Despite his powers being tempered for now, he looked very much like his spinner days. Of course, there were some slight changes. His hair was clean and nourished, instead of being scraggly and wild from the elements. There was more gray on his head than he would have liked, but centuries of being the Dark One and years being Mr. Gold did a number on his appearance. Wrinkles replaced golden scales and his brown eyes once full of innocence had dulled its hue with the burden and wisdom that one finds in a lifetime of pain and anger.
He did feel like he was close to his real age.
Belle was right. He wasn't the same man anymore even with the changes within him. Some things can't change and he knew more about heartache and regret than any living person would ever know. He only hoped that Bae could see that, see the man that was trying to emerge from this shell of darkness.
Sighing, he lost track of time and was lost in his own musing thoughts that he almost missed hearing Belle and Lily-Rose returning.
"Rumple?" Belle called and a wave of relief washed over her when he came out of the bathroom. Of course, she noticed the lack of room service present in the room but she stopped herself from scolding him when she saw his countenance.
"Gold!"
The adjoining door burst opened and Emma stood in the doorway panting and face beet-red.
"We had a truce! I've been good and you—"
"Emma," Belle reminded her with a slight twitch in Lily-Rose's direction who was taking in the seen with the full wide-eyed look that a toddler has when something captivating is happening. Or in this case… someone in trouble.
The Savior let loose the breath she was holding that kept her from saying what she really wanted. "This isn't over," she warned Rumple with a promise glint in her eye. "When we're back in Storybrooke—"
"Yes, yes. I know dearie," he said irritably. "But don't forget I'll have my powers back."
Emma glared at him and stormed back into her room. Henry appeared and shook his head. "She'll get over it. Besides, it's nice not to have to unpack," he said with appreciation. "I was wondering Mr. Gold… could I rent a movie and have Lily-Rose watch with me?"
"Go right ahead."
Henry's face beamed. "Come on Lily-Rose! They have a bunch of Disney movies to choose from."
"Be good sweetie," Belle called after her. "Listen to Ms. Swann, got it?"
"I will!" Lily-Rose chirped as she skipped to the other room.
Belle closed the door behind them and turned to see her fiancé drop the façade and reveal the man that was hiding from the others. He looked haggard and carried his age in his eyes. He certainly was a man that possessed a heavy burden and guilt, which despite how tough he appeared on the outside, on the inside it was where he kept it all hidden.
"Do you mind telling me what that was about?"
"What?" he said innocently, lifting his shoulders in a shrug.
Belle gave him a look. "You know what I mean. Since we got here Rumple… you've been acting strange. Are you still worried about Bae?"
"Belle—"
"Tell me. It's not doing you any good keeping it in like this. Let me help you carry that weight." She moved over so she could touch his arm and gazed at him deeply with the love she felt for him. "What are you so afraid of?"
It was the one question that had him sagging in relief as it all seemed to jumble out of him. For too long he had tried to hold it in, to hide his actual feelings, that as soon as Belle made contact he couldn't help the truth from pouring out. He told her what had been nagging him, about how he messed things up with his son when he became the Dark One, and their last moments together before he so cowardly let his boy go into the portal.
"I'm afraid he'll hate me still," he admitted. "And I don't blame him if he does. What I done… is unforgivable."
"Oh Rumple," Belle hummed as she cradled him to her chest. "I know it hasn't been easy for you, and I know it's the same for Bae. But you have to see yourself now and the progress you've made. You're not that same man anymore. And as soon as Bae sees the difference, then he will accept you back into his life. You are his father and your love for him hasn't changed. It's what you do now will make all the difference in the world. And you're not alone. I told you once and I will tell you again: Lily-Rose and I will be there to support you. We're not going anywhere. No matter what happens—you have us by your side."
"I know," he whispered. "But what if he refuses to hear me out? What if he shuts the door in my face?"
"We'll cross that bridge if that happens," Belle told him confidently. "I have no doubt he will be cross with you when you meet. Give him time and the space he needs, and then talk to him. If he's anything like you… then he will listen to you as soon as the initial anger passes."
"Easy for you to say."
"Someone has to be optimistic," she reminded him. "And I have faith it will work out. You need to believe in yourself and Bae, Rumple."
"I know but it's so difficult Belle," he confessed, staring at her with desperation. "What if I can't make it work?"
"You will. You always find a way."
"Your belief in me astounds me. I wish I felt the same," he mumbled.
She cupped his cheek and stroked the skin with her thumb. "Oh, I think you do. You may not see it but the Rumplestiltskin I know always find a way to get what he wants. Don't forget… I was a married woman and it didn't stop you."
"That's different. Besides, I had you before you got married."
She shrugged. "Same thing. I was spoken for but it didn't stop you from showing the real you and for me to fall in love."
He smirked. "Ah… I could never forget that. You were quite eager if I recall for the imp to have his way."
"I still do," she whispered with a crooked grin.
The kiss was slow and tender and full of promise. As Rumple's hands began to slide down her back to her waist, holding her close, the kiss deepened as she opened up to him. Taking advantage of the welcome, his tongue dove in to tangle with hers. For a few minutes they kissed delicately, their tongues sliding in and out as the air around them began to grow warm as caresses suddenly became desperate to feel skin upon skin.
Rumple fell back on the bed as Belle pressed down on his shoulders so she could straddle him. Giving him a quick peck on the mouth, she looked at him with a devious gleam in her eye.
"Let me make you feel good," she said, raking her nails down his front and then began to unbutton his shirt… slowly.
"Belle…" he moaned, loving it when she teased him but he wanted to feel her. She batted his hands away and grabbed his wrists to pin them on the bed.
"No, no," she cooed. "My rules."
His nostrils flared at his eyes darkened with desire. "As you wish, my queen. I will obey."
"Good." Belle sat up and continued to work the shirt off him. She pushed the material back so she could have access to his bare chest and began to drop kisses starting at his sternum and trailing down to his navel. Rumple tensed as she went lower with her lips and tongue, letting out a throaty gasp as her nimble fingers quickly undid his zipper and pulled his pants down just enough for her to get to her prize.
As soon as she had his pants tugged down, she reached in and pulled out his cock, which was erect and already began to weep at the tip. She never could get over how easy it was for her to get him excited, and seeing him so helpless and raw in his emotions… That did something to her as her womb clenched in anticipation. For now, this was about him and he was going to need all the comfort she could give for tomorrow.
Inching away from him so she could come face-to-face with his quivering shaft, Belle wrapped her hand firmly around him and gave him a couple of swift pumps. Rumple's back arched as he continued to pant her name and taking mercy on the poor man… she brought her mouth down and slowly took him in. He couldn't take his eyes off her as she stared at him and began to suck up and down. As she reached the top, she nibbled just a little bit before sinking back down and repeating the torturous action again.
So wound up he was that it didn't take long for him to release his pent up feelings as he came, dragging her name out in one breath.
She stroked him and his belly as she milked from him as much as she could. With a departing kiss on his member, Belle crawled back to his side and pulled his head down to her breasts. He wrapped his arms around her, and together they lay as he regained his breath. It didn't take much for him to fall asleep in her embrace, and Belle relished the fact she could take away his pain, even momentarily. For she knew come morning… Rumple would return to his uneasiness until they found Bae.
Oh Gods, she thought. Please allow my Rumple to find and speak to his son. That's all I ask. Give him the peace he needs.
TBC…
