Snow stays at Belle's place while they both pack and prepare for life away from Storybrooke. Merlin needs to ask questions about his daughter, while Annabelle considers her future. And Baelfire starts to pass on messages given to him by loved ones from beyond the grave.
The Locksley Inn, Sherwood – early evening
They'd just arrived at Robin's pub, after another long day on the farm. Dorothy, having just spotted the Briars with their month-old baby girl at a corner table, decided to take Lily and introduce her to her new goddaughter, while David went to the bar to order drinks.
But as he was about to speak to Alan-a-Dale, someone tapped his shoulder. He turned to face the one man he'd been silently dreading bumping in to.
"Merlin?"
"David. May I have a word? Preferably somewhere we can't be overheard?"
~oOo~
Merlin didn't mince his words, or waste time getting to the point.
"What are your intentions towards Annabelle?" The former prince looked surprised by the question, as he added."My daughter?"
He needed to think before answering. Though he came across as mild mannered and pleasant, Merlin was considered by all with magic, including Emma, to be the most powerful wizard who'd ever lived. A time traveller, seer, apparently immortal and in direct touch with the gods, David had no doubt that, like Emma, he'd be able to spot a lie or misinformation a mile away. He'd never seen Merlin angry, but could well imagine he'd protect his family, especially his daughters, as fiercely as any father. And this man's daughter had not only stayed at the farm this week, but in his own bed, for three of the last six nights.
"I don't have any, but we've become very good friends. As you know, Lily Page has also been living with Dorothy at the farm and they're both helping me. Anna said as Lily's a half-sister she never knew about, she wanted to get to know her. Why do you ask?"
"I've already spoken to Lilith, and yes, Anna said much the same thing. Sadly, I've only known her a matter of weeks, whereas Anna I've known from the moment I cradled her in my arms after her mother gave birth to her. She's recently been through a tempestuous relationship and break up with an unfaithful fiancé only weeks before her wedding. He's a swine who clearly didn't respect her. It's one of several reasons she flew over from the UK to join me in New York for a while. She hides it well, but she's rather fragile at the moment, and her mother's also worried for her well being. Hence my concern?"
"I understand, and yes, she did tell me about her recent past. But even though you're her father, I'm sure you'd appreciate I wouldn't want to break her confidence? Infidelity's a nasty business, as I recently discovered for myself. Lily's been through a similar heartache; and Dorothy, for that matter."
"I'm aware," He gave him a resigned smile. "Though you do seem to be gaining a reputation for harbouring and supporting jilted women, don't you?"
"I'm not sure if that's a good or bad thing? All I can tell you is that Dorothy loves working there, as it seems to take her back to happier days with her family. Farming's in the blood? Lily's enjoying herself too, saying she finds working with lambs and pigs rather…therapeutic?"
"Added to the relief of having someone else's darkness removed from her after she came here, no doubt? It was a dreadful error on my Apprentice's part to put it inside her in the first place."
"Partly, but I think Snow and I bear most responsibility for that? I've apologised to Lily several times already, and thankfully she seems to have forgiven me." He was relieved he'd managed to move the subject away from Anna, if only temporarily. "May I ask you something Merlin?" He nodded. "Emma once told me you two met in a cinema somewhere when she was young? Apparently, you predicted her future back then? So can you see it from now going forward? And everyone else's"
"Mostly, and I can when I need to. But seer magic's a highly inexact science, and not without limitations. You realise I can't give you information on your own futures?"
"I know that, but can't you look into Anna and Lily's, just to put your mind at ease?"
"Sadly no, I can't see anything to do with my own bloodline. It's one of the biggest limitations and why I'm asking after Anna's welfare? I-" But he was interrupted by a hand wresting on his arm, distracting them both completely, when they realised who it was.
"NEAL?" David's eyes nearly bulged out of his head. He'd heard from Robin that Henry's father was apparently alive, having been sent back from heaven or wherever. But seeing him here, in the flesh, standing in front of them, still came as a shock.
"Hi David, Merlin. Been a while, hasn't it?" But the impish grin was the same. "Though as Henry told me you gave your son my name, best go with Baelfire, or Bae? Missed me?"
"Bae, my dear chap!" The Sorcerer turned, immediately breaking into a warm smile and effusively shaking his hand. "How delightful to see you back?"
"All thanks to you, old man!" Neal returned the compliment, equally effusive. "You were the one who lobbied Zeus in the first place! So let's face it, if you hadn't, I'd probably still be watching the car crash unfold down here."
"It'll all be worth it if we can contain The Dark One permanently. Speaking of, how's your father?"
David watched the men chat like old friends, relieved not to be discussing Anna. His attention turned to the other side of the room, and Lily holding Mulan's baby. If anyone had changed the most, it had to be Mal's daughter, finally having escaped from that terrible darkness. She'd formed a close friendship with Dorothy, who'd travelled with her to New York to retrieve her things from her old apartment. Like him, neither of them wanted to get into any sort of formal relationships so soon after their recent difficulties. What was the term Lily used to describe the three of them? Fuck buddies? It was crude but befitting their current circumstances and nobody saw any reason to change. Then a week ago, Merlin's own daughter had breezed into Storybrooke. An intelligent, confident and beautiful woman with ideas of her own. But a woman also recently touched by infidelity. A fiancé who'd cheated on her with her own best friend. But she'd seen something in David and after a long evening they eventually wound up in bed together. Another newly-single woman, just looking for comfort. With no commitments. No strings. And it was after their third night together that he realised just how much he'd changed from the man he was two only months ago.
But as his mind wandered, something Neal said made him pay attention.
"So, I was able to change into the captain's body, even on the plane, after Themis showed me? I did it a couple more times, with others, in France."
"Transmogrification? That's advanced, Baelfire. Especially, for a novice."
"Yeah? Well, it didn't end there! I did something else in a breakfast room in Paris. I froze everything, and all the people there apart from dad and Gideon. Even know I'm not quite sure how I did it, but it just seemed to come from inside? Like I just knew what to do?" He held up his right hand, twiddling his fingers and looking at them like they were alien to him. "Then earlier today, at Regina's place, I stopped something from smashing on the floor by stopping it in mid-air? I didn't really need to think about it. I just wanted it to happen, and it did!"
"It sounds to me like once Zeus gave you the powers, Themis gave more skills to use them than you realise? The senior gods have their ways. But what's most unusual is your ability to use them not just here, but in the world outside the magical realms? And on a plane? That's powerful stuff! Even I don't have that power."
"Well, I don't want it either! I just kinda assumed it'd go by now, the longer I hung around once I was down here? I've always hated magic because of what it did to my own father!"
"That's different! Rumple became possessed by the darkest of dark magic, an entity he couldn't hope to control, though he's done better than most. I strongly suspect they gave you these extra gifts so you could physically restrain the Dark One if called upon, wherever he be."
"Brilliant. Well, I guess that answers my next question. I was going to ask how to remove it?"
"I seriously advise against it. But don't worry, I can help? At least by training you how to use them safely and contain them. But first, let's see what other powers he's given you. Come join me at the convent tomorrow morning?" Neal nodded. "Now, tell me about your father's property search? And how are things progressing between him and Celeste?"
"Merlin, you know, you're something else?" Neal smirked, shaking his head. "You like to play dumb, but I'm guessing you planned all this? Papa? Celeste, or should I say, Morgause? Me? Are we all some sort of grand plan of yours?"
"Not really, I just take advantage of a situation when I find it. Like your father leaving here for a decent enough amount of time to make changes? Like Morgause, having overstepped and almost getting killed by her own son? I'm not as mercenary as you may think, Bae. Is your father not happier than you've ever seen him?"
Swan House - later
"She never even told me where she went?" Emma paced the living room, looking out the window, still feeling guilty as hell."It's gone nine already!"
"She's an independent, strong-willed woman Swan, much like yourself."
"But I haven't had a bloody double organ transplant, have I? Killian, she's supposed to be resting up, for god's sake? It's getting dark out there!"
"You've tried calling again?"
"Six times, and left six messages. And texts. Nothing."
'Well, where's she likely to have gone? Did she give-"
"I'm a former-fucking bailbonds-woman, Jones! I found people for a living?" She regretted her tone the moment she saw his frown. "Sorry, I'm just worried, okay? What if she's collapsed somewhere? Maybe lying in a ditch? Jeez, this is all my fault!"
"Of course it isn't. Why would you say that?"
"Because I treated her badly from the moment she got here? Yes, I get she didn't want to go back to the farm, and the loft has too many stairs, but I made her unwelcome! I -" She was interrupted when her phone, lying on the mantelpiece, flicked into life, Killian picking it up and handing it over.
"Emma Jones. Who is this?"
"Emma?" She froze at the sound of her formerly-dead lover's voice on the other end. "Hi Emma. Sorry to call so late, but it's about your mum?"
"Neal? Why, what's happened?" She put it on speaker. "Where is she?"
"Here, at my dad's old place, up on the hill overlooking the lake? I just got back and I found her in the living room with Belle."
"Belle? So why didn't she phone me? She left like, early this morning and been gone all day. What's going on?"
"She's fine. Better than fine actually, but her phone's dead so I've just put it on charge for her. Though she probably won't feel too good in the morning. Nor will Belle, for that matter."
"Why? Is she hurt or something?" She could have sworn she heard him snigger.
"Not hurt, pissed."
"Pissed? At what?"
"Not our 'pissed', English 'pissed'! As in drunk? They both are."
"Drunk? But how could she - she's still on medication for god's sake! She's just had a liver and kidney transplant not two weeks ago. What the hell's she doing drinking? Are you sure?"
"Well the slurred speech, incessant giggling like a pair of teenagers, three empty wine bottles and halfway through a fourth is a bit of a giveaway? Yes, I'm sure."
"Why, the stupid…Okay, I'll come pick her up. I should be there in about-"
"No need! Seriously Emma, don't bother as she just wants to crash out here. So we'll have her dropped off in the morning? Probably after they've had a chance to sober up. I'm not sure, but I think they had a good time together. Belle's been mourning her dad, so I think it was good for them to get together. She said your mum can stay over and she's got plenty of spare clothes here, as she hasn't packed yet, so she should be fine. I just thought you should know, so you won't go worrying about her?"
"Okay. Erm, thanks."
"No problem. I can hear you put me on speaker? Is Killian listening?"
"I'm here, mate." The former pirate finally spoke up.
"Good. We should have a chat, you and me. Preferably alone when I bring her over? About your parents and brother? Well, both brothers."
Emma understood the reason he was asking Killian, not her. Henry had already told her he'd be keeping his distance, for her own sake. But she still felt…sidelined?
"Call me before you come over."
The Gold Mansion
Two minutes later, Neal went back into the living room, where the two inebriated women were now slouched out on the sofa in front of a tv they weren't watching, legs resting on the coffee table, both with yet another glass of wine.
"Snow, I just spoke to Emma and Killian, and said I'll drop you off in the morning? I also suggested I'll make it late, to give you a chance to, er…rest?" And sober up, hopefully.
"Thanks Neal, that's sweet of you ." She sounded slurry as she gave him a tired smile."Don't tell her I said this, but I wish Emma had got back together with you when you came here the first time? I know I shouldn't say it because he's my son-in-law and all, but between you and Killian, I always thought you two were better suited?"
Neal grinned. He could well remember when he'd first arrived in Storybrooke with his father and Emma, unexpected. Far from liking him, Snow had always been deeply suspicious, David even more so.
"I'll always love her; and not just because she gave me Henry. But she clearly needed someone else?" And started going out with Hook within days of me dying. "I may have had issues with Jones in the past, but let's face it, he's given you a lovely granddaughter, so can't be that bad, can he?"
"I guess. Shame though. Anyway…" She finally put her glass down, turning to Belle. "Are you sure about me staying the night? I can still get someone to come take me ho…back to Emma's?"
"It's fine, really. After everything that's happened, I really appreciated your company. It's nicer having a shoulder to cry on, and let's face it, women are better at this sort of thing, aren't we? No offence Neal, but-"
"None taken." He cut her off. She sounded almost as tipsy as Snow. "Still, I'd better get myself off to bed. Henry told me Jefferson's getting to the shop at eight, so I'll see him then come back and take you back to Emma's mid-morning? You need anything before I go up?"
"No, I'm fine. Belle, you'd better show me the room I'm sleeping in?" Snow yawned. "Or I can always crash out on this sofa? All I need is a couple of sheets?"
"Don't be silly, you're just out of hospital and convalescing! I don't want you hurting yourself by sleeping on a lumpy old sofa. Neal's using the room next to Gideon's, Henry's out tonight but his room's cluttered with removal boxes anyway, as is the box room, so it's probably best you share with me? It's a big enough bed, so there's plenty of space, and the wardrobe's still got most of my night things I haven't packed yet. I'm sure we can fix you up with something. Come on, I'll show you up."
He watched them continue squabbling about her being an inconvenience, before Snow eventually conceded and followed her upstairs, both of them on fairly shaky legs. He grinned, knowing they'd surely feel it tomorrow morning.
~oOo~
Twenty minutes later Snow came out from the bathroom, in a pair of Belle's bed shorts and a T-shirt, feeling better after a shower. But her body still ached from the morning walk over, as it'd been her first real distance walking since the operation.
"I always feel so much better after a decent shower, don't you? And as for your bidet, oh I wish we'd had one installed back at the farm when I had the chance? Emma and Regina swear by them, and I-" She stopped chattering when she noticed Belle, far from listening, was sat on side of the far side of the bed sobbing, with tissues in her hands."Belle? Are you okay?"
"Yeah," she took one of the tissues, blowing her nose and turning away, dabbing her eyes ."I'm fine."
"You're clearly not…" Snow moved around the bed, sitting next to her to rest a hand on her arm. "What is it? C'mon, you know you can tell me."
"I'm sorry, it's just…I got to thinking about papa? How I didn't just ignore him, but I avoided him for years, ever since we first came here. And, and, even after I left here, I never called him to tell him where I was? Or what I was doing?"
"I understand. He was still your father, despite everything. And I know I'd give anything to have had a chance to talk to my own papa again. You're grieving, so it's only natural? I know I can't help but, if you just need a shoulder to cry on, use mine."
"Thanks, but it's not just that…" Belle stood up to bin the tissues, giving her a sad smile as she took more from the box, walking around to the other side of the bed before climbing in, rolling onto her back and, sighing, looked up at the ceiling, wiping her eyes again as Snow climbed in beside her. "It's just something Neal told me."
"Henry's father?"
"He said when Zeus decided to send him back here for his father's sake, word quickly went around, and other passed souls came to him. Including my own mother. And my brother."
"Your brother? I never knew Mo had a son?"
"Jude. I was barely fourteen when he was killed in the Ogre Wars. Mum mourned him terribly, but dad refused to even mention him after that. Too upset, I guess."
"Oh, I'm sorry."
"They gave Neal messages to pass on to me. That's when she told him to let me know dad was dying, and we should reconcile before it was too late? That I should let him meet Giddy, before he…he…" Her sobs started up again as she thought back to her father's last words, lying in that awful hospital bed, with tubes coming out of him."When I had the chance, I blew it! Gideon's already four, and he never even got to meet him?"
"I'm sure he'd understand," Snow moved closer, sliding an arm around her neck and shoulder, drawing her in a light hug as they lay together under the dim side light. "He's at peace now. Everyone has regrets, Belle. Heavens, I should know, I've got plenty! All the stupid things I've done? All the stupid things I've said? And now I'd give anything to put them right."
Belle gradually calmed herself. "Sorry, I just-"
"Don't be sorry. It's okay. Just let it all out if you want a decent cry."
They held together, Snow wiping still tear-shiny cheeks with her thumb, before giving her a sad smile. Finally, she turned to switch off the lamp on her side, Belle doing the same with hers moments later. Then she turned back to hug her again, looking at the former librarian's eyes, shiny and wide in the moonlight.
"Thanks. And for the flowers and, well, just being here today? It's appreciated."
"You're welcome, though I should be thanking you, for letting me chunter on this afternoon? I've outstayed my welcome at Emma's, and I certainly couldn't go back to the farm right now. Thanks for putting up with me?"
Don't mention it. You were right earlier, we're going through so much we really should be helping one another get through it all. There's so much for me to do; clearing out this place, the shop, the flat over the library? Finding a new home, prepping and checking out Giddy's new school, finding a way to set up a new business? Just…getting used to everything changing?" She reached out to stroke the princess's cheek. "I'm sorry we didn't become better friends after we all came here, Snow. Not that I blame you, what with me being with the Dark One, and all? Everyone around here was always too nervous around me."
"Maybe, but that's in the past. I'd like to help fix it by becoming better friends now? " Snow turned her head, pecking her brow. "After all, we've a lot more in common nowadays, including Ruby."
Belle nodded, returning the sad smile, thinking to herself how beautiful Snow's eyes were in the moonlight. "You know, you really surprised me earlier when you said you loved but weren't in love with her? As I said, she's definitely still in love with you."
"She's my oldest, dearest friend, and she's lovely, but I've always known she was driven by werewolf passions. As you found out for yourself, and no doubt your sexy young sailing couple recently?" She gave her a low snigger, and even Belle start chuckling. "She didn't go into too much detail but told me the basics. I mean, come on, foursomes ?" She draped her arm around her back, pulling closer again. "That sounds exhausting, but so much fun. It must be wonderful, just being able to let yourself go like that, and have sex without any expectations whatsoever. No commitments? No one judging you? No…guilt?"
"I'll admit it was pretty great fun while it lasted…" She unconsciously removed a lock of hair from Snow's cheek, tucking it behind her ear."They're still down there, in Havana, where we left them. They even talked about coming up to see us in Portland one day? Before we all started fooling around, I'd never so much as been with any other man or woman apart from Rumple, and Ruby more recently. Because of them and what happened after we got thrown over the town line, I've kinda changed my whole attitude to relationships? To sex, and well, just about everything? They're really close, but they're both so free to do whatever they want, with whoever they want, and not feel bad about it. They're both bisexual, and you know, having met them, I'm a very different woman to the Belle Gold who left here six weeks ago? A part of the new me, I like; but there's still a nagging doubt inside, a voice that still makes me feel…well, a bit ashamed if I'm honest? Disgusted even."
"You really shouldn't be. From what I've seen so far, I rather like this new, confident Belle French." Snow drew closer, and was just about to kiss her cheek, when Belle turned to do the same, causing their lips to accidentally meet. It fleeting, the lightest of pecks, but it took them both a little by surprise. But neither woman pulled back, Belle instead giving her new friend a shy smile. But then Snow unexpectedly kissed her again. This time on the lips, for a fraction longer.
But seeing Belle's expression, she pulled her head back, realising she'd overstepped.
"Sorry, I shouldn't have done that! Heat of the moment? I just-"
"Don't be," Belle shook her head. "I like it."
So, Snow pulled in again, this time resting her cheek on Belle's."After everything that's happened, I still crave basic affection? Everyone around here knows what's happened regarding that potion, and over the last few days a lot of people came to Emma's to wish me well. They were nearly all saying nice things to me, but I can still see the suspicion in the eyes, you know? Suspicion of a spoilt bitch who cheated on their beloved prince? Lying to him about her past before they'd even got engaged? Lying just to keep herself in line to the throne? Even my own daughter and son now seem a bit-"
"Hey?" Belle interrupted her gloomy rant. "Stop right there? We both took the guilt bus earlier, so let's not go back?" Without asking permission, this time it was Belle kissing Snow on the lips, but a little more firmly and more confidently than the last. And she was pleasantly surprised by just how cushioned and warm they were? Much fuller than Ruby's, or even Olivia's lips. And judging by the moan and the way her mouth opened to receive her, she appreciated the attention. So she responded in kind, this time allowing her tongue to cautiously come into play, slowly reaming around the inside of her lips, earning another groan as it finally met its peer, both organs introducing themselves by coiling sloppily around the other as both of them began to get into it. It felt exciting, like forbidden fruit. She pulled back a little, gauging her reaction.
"Too much?"
"Just right..." Belle's lips, wet from kissing, now found the side of her neck, and a little pulse point just below the ear, making her breath hitch as she then moved on to the earlobe, sucking hard on the little flap of skin. Snow shivered. It was another sensitive place she thought only David knew. Pulling her lower half closer, she now felt Belle's warm front press into her; their bare skin separated by just two thin cotton tops and shorts. And from the feel of the fabric moving against her she realised that, like herself, Belle wasn't wearing a bra either. She shivered again as Belle kept moving her soft breasts pressing against her own, turgid nipples now grazing under the cotton. And from the sound of her breathing, it was obvious she was just as worked up as her.
The moment she pulled back to breathe again, Snow seized another chance, attaching their lips once again, but this time far more aggressively, sliding her tongue inside and as far as she could get into the other woman's mouth in the sloppiest of kisses, both groaning deeply before Belle countered with her own to duel as they held one another even more tightly. To the former wife of the Dark One it felt like one the most passionate kisses she'd ever experienced. But it was only when, after pulling Snow even tighter against her, a knee sliding between her thighs, that she heard her noticeably flinch in pain, making them both pull back.
"Sorry! Did I, erm-"
"It's fine. It's just a little tenderness under the scar tissue that Merlin healed. I'm fine."
"I'm sorry."
"Again, don't be!" But she still held onto her. "I was loving every minute. You?"
"Same." She caught her breath. "This is lovely, but it's a reminder you've been really ill! I don't want us doing anything that could harm you, Snow. Harm that recovery? Look, while I want to carry on, we've both had a lot to drink, haven't we? I don't want us winding up regretting something tomorrow and things getting awkward between us when we sober up?"
"You're right," Snow nodded, reluctantly. "I was getting carried away. I'm sorry."
"And stop apologising? I was getting carried away, too. But we need to sleep."
"But maybe one last kiss?"
The Nolan Farm – the following morning
Annabelle yawned loudly as she watched her lover climb out from under the sheets beside her, in the dawn light.
She was used to very early starts. An unfortunate but necessary product of working constantly changing shifts in one of London's busier hospitals, for well over a decade. But she still preferred lying in late, whenever she could. David on the other hand, having been brought up on a farm since birth, seemed to positively relish early starts. But at least she got to enjoy the sight of that beautiful muscular frame of his as he rose from the bed, delighting in his almost delicious bare arse cheeks, slim waist and back, as he stretched.
"Can't we have another half-hour?" She groaned, stretching her arms out, yawning again.
"I'd love to, but seeing how much Dot and Lily put away last night, I can't see either of them getting up and helping with the newborns just yet, can you?" As he pulled a dressing gown from the door hook, he looked back at the woman still lying in his bed. Anna Sage was a truly remarkable woman. Highly intelligent, erudite, kind and exceptionally beautiful. And she even had magic? She's arrived in town only a week ago, and for four of those nights she'd lain in his bed with him. As he looked at her graceful features, knowing she could have any man she wanted, he was still surprised she found him worthy of her attention.
"Shame. I guess I'd better get up too." She still smiled as she rose from the bed. And seeing that wonderful naked body as she stooped to retrieve the silk chemise she'd worn when she got into it last night, he was sorely tempted to drag her back to bed.
"You don't need to. Maybe I'll go make some breakfast first? You hungry?"
"Starving! Probably because some hot guy kinda wore me out last night?"
That made him laugh. What was it about this woman that made everything seem lighter? Brighter? He watched as she put her nightwear back on and retrieved the other dressing gown. "Maybe I'll go make it for you? Besides, your boy's an early riser, just like his old man, so I'd best go back to the other room and make it look 'slept-in', first?"
"I really wouldn't worry about it. Neal already knows you've been sleeping in here with me when you've stayed over. Plus, he's bright like Emma, and rarely misses a trick these days. Did you know he has magic too?"
"He told me. In fact, I offered to help him get used to it and give him a few lessons? Because of my parents, mine came in quite early, too. If you don't mind me teaching him, that is?"
"Not at all. He told me Emma and Regina said they were going to help, but don't think they've started anything yet as they've been distracted. But I saw how well you got on with him the other day? He really likes you. He told me so, himself."
"I like him too! He's funny, and bright. And he's got a wicked sense of humour, and a bottomless pit for a stomach, according to Dot?"
"Yup, he's definitely going to miss you when you leave. You still planning on going back on Monday?"
"About that?" She stepped in front of him, putting her hands on the lapels of his dressing gown, straightening them before sliding a hand inside and over his bare chest."I was thinking about staying in town a bit longer? Your only medic here is completely swamped out there, and wants to retrain in some of the latest medical techniques? Dad mentioned helping him in New York, so I thought I'd offer to step in for a few months? Maybe longer,"
"Really? Neal would love that. Where would you stay?"
"Well, here. If you'd have me?" She saw the look in his eyes and grinned.
"I'd love that. You know your father asked me about us last night?"
"He told me. He's being over-protective because of my last breakup?" She stepped up, pecking his lips."I told him I was a big girl now, and to stop worrying about me. Besides, I used Lily as an excuse for staying here, instead of the convent. But don't worry, I'll put him straight on a few things? You won't have an avenging sorcerer cursing you for soiling his daughter. Well at least, not in any way I didn't ask for?" She grinned a devilish grin."The truth is, I rather like you, David Nolan. I like you a lot. And I'd like to see were this could go?"
"I like you too Anna, and I love having you being here, with me. But I know it's still early for both of us. We've both been through pretty bad breakups recently, just like Dot and Lily, and I'd hate to disappoint you. So, we'll see how it goes, I guess? But if you're staying around, I think I'd like you to meet Emma informally, too?"
"Works for me. I haven't really spoken to her since we were in New York. I hope she likes me? Anyway, enough. You got everything here for me to make pancakes?"
"More than enough."
"Chocolate drops?"
"Neal's never going to let you leave, at this rate."
Gold's Emporium
Neal opened the door of his father's old shop to find Henry already there, talking to a man he hadn't seen in a very long time. Last time had been in his father's castle, in the old country.
"Jefferson!" He offered his hand as the taller man stared back." It's been quite a while?"
"You were a boy then, Baelfire," he returned the handshake. "I know Rumple told me you were back, but seeing you in the flesh like this? Astonishing! So, you actually met Zeus?"
"Yup, and two of his wives. He's the one who sent me back"
"Remarkable. Only the second resurrected man I've ever met. And I've been around a while."
"Who's the first?"
"Robin Locksley. Marvellous chap. Anyway, must get on? Henry's already let me into the safe at the back, and I've only taken out a few things so far…" He pointed to a pile next to a box on one of the counters.
"Dad's told me you're to remove anything magical? What're you going to do with all of it?"
"Most of its going to Merlin. Keeping magical items in a non-magical world usually keeps them safe? Though I'll be taking back a few things to their respective realms." He gathered up a long leather sleeve, with something poking out the end, handing it to Neal. "Though this should probably stay with you."
"What is it?" He started to pull out the smooth wooden stick from it.
"DAD, BE CAREFUL WITH THAT?" Henry butted in, having been watching. "Hold onto the leather, not the stick! It's the wand that sent me to another realm? The parallel one just like Storybrooke that I told you about?"
"Oh, that wand?" He slid it back into the pouch. "Okay, thanks. Though why I'd ever want to use it, I can't think."
"You never know! Still, it can only be used by someone of Rumple's blood line. So, keep it safe. Now then…" Jefferson opened his palm, casting it around with a very different looking stick that now appeared in his own hand."Nope, nothing there. Apart from…" He pointed the stick at a floor, and one of the shorter floorboards suddenly started shaking.
"Bingo!"
Three heavy old oak floorboards suddenly rested from their screws, as though prizing themselves from the rest of the floor. The boards then levitated slightly before resting to the side, to reveal a heavy-looking silver chest lying underneath. "And…up!" With a flick of his wand the chest itself now floated up, to finally rest on the nearby boards. With another twist of the wand the chest lid opened up, to reveal another smaller, dark-grey box, about two foot long.
"Just another old box?" Henry looked at the dark metal inside. "An iron one?"
"Lead actually." Jefferson knelt in front of it, prizing it from the outer silver chest. "It stops all magic getting through, if it's thick enough." Sliding his fingers underneath, they heard a metallic 'click', as the lead box now seemed to show a lid and hinges that weren't there before. He opened the top, setting it back to reveal:
"The Dagger!" Henry recognised it immediately. "So that's where he's kept it!"
"Indeed so, my boy…" Jefferson cautiously reached in, taking the dagger out by the handle. "And you'll see that on the blade, the name of the current Dark One host has all but disappeared?"
"It's true," Neal agreed, taking the weapon, careful not to handle the blade edges. "But it's still just about there. So, it's still linked to him, even though he hasn't been here for over a month?"
"Very much so. And it'll will remain linked for as long as the entity remains in his body. It'd reactivate the moment he set foot back over the town line, making him no doubt vengeful." Jefferson carefully took the dagger from him, putting it back in its lead coffin. "Another reason for encasing it in lead. Much harder for it to detect him, not just the other war round."
"If it's still that dangerous, what're you going to do with it, now you have it?"
"Take it straight to the Sorcerer, along with the other things, now he's in town. He'll cast some spells over it to make it even harder to trace, before disposing of it." With a last flourish of the wand, the silver chest sealed itself. "Now then. Rumple, or Angus as I should be calling him from now on, also told me that he believes some of my wife Priscilla's things may be out the back? So, would you mind?
The Gold Mansion – an hour later
Although Henry's father had told her last night he'd bring her mother back from Belle's old house, Emma couldn't wait any longer and decided to head over to the mansion on the hill herself. Killian had advised against it but being headstrong, she decided she wanted to have a word with Snow, preferably in private, without Killian, knowing she'd probably set him off. So, leaving Hope with him, she arrived just before ten, ringing on the doorbell. The woman who answered, still in her dressing gown and looking a little worse for wear, opened the door.
"Belle! Sorry I'm a little early, and I know Neal said he'd drop her off, but I thought-"
"Come in, Emma." Rumpelstiltskin's ex-wife turned from her and headed to the back. "She's in the kitchen making coffees. You want one?"
"Thanks." She'd only been to Gold's old house once before, when she was the Dark One's host herself, and broken in. At the time she was trying to steal anything she could find to remove a certain enchanted sword from a stone in her own basement. It wasn't one of her proudest moments. But then she noticed the bouquet of flowers and the note on the vase as she walked past.
"Sorry to hear about your dad? I didn't even realise he'd been ill?"
"He collapsed in his flat a week before he died. Hank Morgan discovered him on the floor where he'd been lying. They took him straight to hospital, but I guess he was just too weak by then. He passed away early Monday morning."
"Again, I'm sorry. I didn't really know Mo that well, but-"
"EMMA!" Her mother now appeared, interrupting them, also in a dressing gown and wearing what appeared to be a pair of bed shorts and a lilac T-shirt. "This is a surprise? I thought Neal was planning on taking me back?"
"He was, but I messaged him. I was up early so I thought I'd come over and save him the bother?"
"Well that's kind, but there's been a change of plan. As Belle's already going to be leaving after her father's funeral on Friday, we decided I'd stay here with her until then and help her pack. Then we can go back to Portland together on Saturday."
"Oh." That was a surprise. Normally, Snow wouldn't normally have given the time of day to Gold's wife. They didn't exactly hate each other, but they'd never really got on, especially after she became the next Dark One. At the time, Belle felt that the Heroes had ignored her own problems completely as Rumple lay unconscious in the flat over the shop. "Seems a bit sudden? What brought this on?"
"I'll leave you two to talk?" Belle took a cup of hot tea from Snow, giving her a knowing smile and resting a hand on her arm. "I need to go shower, before I go face the guys in the shop. Snow, you know where everything is? Emma, if I don't see you when I come back down, have a nice day."
She watched as the brunette left, waiting till she heard her go upstairs before turning to her mother. "Well?"
"Emma, it's no secret that I've disturbed your lives ever since I got back. You could cut the tension with a knife and I know Killian's been staying out late because I was there."
That put her on the back foot. "Well that's not exactly true, mum. I-"
"Emma, you always used to get annoyed when I avoided telling you things, even more so if I misled you, so grant me at least a modicum of honesty? I get it, I really do! No young family wants to have an invalid in their home, forever asking for things and I knew I put more stress on you this week, after everything you've been through recently. So, as Belle's kindly offered for me to stay here until we both leave for Portland, It makes sense don't you think?
"I guess. But what about little Neal? As in, my brother?"
"I texted him and I'm going to go over there tomorrow, though Blue said she'll bring him here if I change my mind. I'll talk to him about everything. Ruby's already found six places in and around Portland for us to look at as soon as I get there. Hopefully it won't take too long until I can get him, and you, over regularly."
"Sounds like you've got everything in hand then? You don't need me to erm, help?"
"Emma," she sat down next to her, gathering her hands. "I'll always need you. You're my only daughter and I love you! I just…now I've destroyed my marriage to the man I love, I kinda need to put myself back together again? I'm sure you can see that?"
"I guess. I'm sorry I made you uncomfortable while you were with us, but I'll do whatever you need to help. But it just feels like everything's…changing? Considering I'd never even met you and dad till I was nearly thirty, you've kind of been my rock ever since?"
"And I still can be, my darling!" She kissed the back of Emma's hands. "Just not in quite the same way. You're now in your forties, happily married, with a baby of your own. You don't need me in the same way you once did, and I'm sure your father thinks the same? He loves you too, Emma."
"I'd like to think so, but I've hardly seen anything of him recently, either? Not since he's got his little harem over there." She knew she was being petty, but her mind went back to the morning she discovered him in bed with Dorothy, and Lily Page making drinks in the kitchen in her underwear. "And now my little brother's telling me Merlin's daughter's as good as moved in, too?" She could see from the change of expression her mother had already suspected something, no doubt Blue tipping her off. "Sorry."
"No, it's fine. I still love him Emma, and he deserves to be happy. But you should still go and talk to him? And I'd like you to become much closer with your little brother, too. Neal's going to need his big sister more than ever during this-" But she stopped when she heard the sound of the heavy wooden front door opening, with a loud yell.
"IT'S ME!"
Emma instantly recognised the sound of Henry's father from the hallway. She knew she'd have to come face-to-face with him at some point.
"Hello, stranger?" He stopped in the doorway, looking at her, and the first thing she noticed was that annoyingly adorable smirk, to go with his heavy suntan. And like on the web call, he appeared even younger and fitter than he had before he died? "Have you missed me?"
~oOo~
"They've gone? Already?"
Belle appeared in the living room half an hour later, having dressed for the day, to find Snow alone in the living room.
"She decided she wanted to talk to him on her own? Although she knew he was back, I think it's still been a shock seeing him like that? She took him off, but I'm not sure where."
"Yeah, I was too, when I first saw him back in Boston. How'd she take it when you told her you're staying here till we leave on Saturday?"
"Resigned, I think? I know I've upset her, and my own Neal. They think I'm running away. I'll have to find a way to make it up to them once I'm settled. Are you sure you're still okay with me staying here?"
"Absolutely. But you're still planning on seeing David tomorrow?"
"Yes, and I must admit I'm dreading it! But I've got to face him at some point and collect my things. God alone knows what I'm going to find when I get there, though? After all, he's also got Dorothy and Mal's daughter staying there, and according to Blue, Merlin's daughter's as good as moved in there too! Emma's going to be there and Henry's bringing the truck, so I'll have the whole family to face."
Granny's Diner
The old wolf looked at the pair, curious, as they sat together at the furthest table from the counter. Emma the Saviour, and the supposedly dead man sent back by the gods.
"You look worried?"
She was distracted from her thoughts by the kindly face of the man who now stood next to her, pecking her cheek."Is something wrong, my love?"
"Morning, Marco," the curmudgeonly old proprietor's scowl turned into a reluctant smile, as she returned his kiss. She'd been dating the old toymaker for nearly two years now, and he was the nearest thing to a boyfriend he'd had in years. "Not sure yet. See that guy over there? The one by the window with Emma?"
"He seems…familiar?"
"That's Henry Mills's father. He used to date her, long before she first came here."
"Henry's…Gold's boy?" Marco's mind went back. "Wasn't he killed by the Witch?"
"Yup. I went to the funeral. Blue said he got sent back by Zeus himself, to keep The Dark One away from here."
"Sent back? What, from…heaven?"
"At Merlin's request, to keep us all safe. According to Henry, he's now my landlord! I thought the lad was going to take over until Gold's boy came of age. But seems that's all changed? I only spoke to him for a minute when he first walked in, not ten minutes ago. He's asked to have a word with me in private later? Not sure why, but anything to do with Gold's usually bad news."
"You think he'll want to kick you out? Or double the rent?"
"Guess we'll find out, won't we?"
~oOo~
Meanwhile, on the other side of the diner, Emma still couldn't quite believe she was sitting opposite the man who was once the most important part of her life. Someone she'd once planned her future with, in Tallahassee. It was an awkward start, as he explained again why he'd been sent back, his plans for his father's new life, and his recent time with Henry.
Although she was pleased for his second chance, she was horrified to discover just how much he already knew about what'd happened to her since his death nearly a decade ago. He knew about how she's started dating Killian less than a fortnight after they'd buried him. He sounded bitter over that! He also already knew how she became the Dark One, grabbing the dagger from Regina to stop it taking her over, all but saving her life as a result. In fact, he even smirked when he related what he'd seen from some sort of viewers in the Better Place.
"I always knew you had more than a thing for the Queen, Swan?" Neal's smirk turned into a knowing grin. "Explains why that potion of Ingrid's hit you so hard? I only saw you together a matter of days before I got killed, but judging by all the body language, the sex eyes, and the weird way you were around each other, I suspect she had much the same feelings for you."
"That's bullshit! And I only took the dagger, because-" She was about to come back with a suitably acid retort, denying it, when she realised what he'd said. "Anyway, how'd you know about Ingrid's potion? Henry? Because it really wasn't like that!"
"Just the basics. Did you ever tell Hook about your feelings? I kinda assumed he already knew you were into the ladies as much as the guys?"
Part of her wanted to get angry and chew him out. But then, he already knew about her past, probably more than anyone else alive. She'd even told him a lot of it when they were together.
"Of course he knew! We talk! Anyway, I don't have a thing for her, that's all in the past and should stay there! You may have problems with him, but apart from Henry I love Killian more than I've ever loved anyone! Including you." A frown replaced his smirk. Good! "We're married now, got another kid and yes, it's true we've had problems recently, entirely due to that fucking potion! But we're working through it. We're good. And don't go believing all the rumours around here about me and Regina? Killian and I are solid, and Gina and Robin are, too. In fact, she's even pregnant with his kid, and it's also got magic. So that proves their true-love thing!"
"I'm pleased for you Emma, really I am. And yes, Regina also told me she was expecting, when I called in on her yesterday. I'm going to be talking to Robin later tonight after Marian, his first wife gave me some messages to give him. Did Regina tell you I met her father before I came back?"
"Yeah, she called me. She also said you've got magic yourself now?"
"Yup," he raised a hand, twirling his fingers. "But I don't really know what I'm doing with it yet. I spoke to Merlin, and he's going to give me some few lessons before I leave, if only to stop me accidentally killing someone? Just as well, as it seems to work even when I'm away from here? I used it a few times when we were in Europe, and on the plane going over there. Merlin said even he can't do that, and knows only one other person who can, and he's not exactly human."
"The one they call The Dragon? Yeah, we met him. Strange guy. He's the one who first told us Regina was pregnant."
He looked at her wrist as she lifted her cup; at the wrist tattoo, identical to Regina's. "I see you've still not taken those cuffs off yet? You 've asked Henry?"
"He offered, but I told him to leave it for now. Regina has too. People around here are being more accepting of us without them. Not surprising, given recent events?"
"Even though you've used magic countless times to save everyone's asses around here? Seems a bit ungrateful, Swan. How do you feel not having it?"
"Weaker, I guess? A bit defenceless? I-" But she was interrupted by the proprietor looming over them, notepad in hand, glaring at Neal.
"Are you two havin' food, or sticking with coffees?"
"Cardiac Special please, Mrs Lucas?" Neal looked up at her, giving the scowling woman what he hoped was a disarming grin. "At least, that's what Henry called it. With double egg and bacon? And more coffee please?"
"Yeah, what he said…" Emma added, avoiding her glare. After recent events she still found her a bit intimidating. And her mind went back to when she'd voted, along with the rest of the Council, to unseat her from the Sheriff and council roles she'd held. "Please?"
"Mrs. Lucas?" Neal wasn't done. "Sorry to be blunt, but you've been scowling at me ever since we came in. Have I done something to upset you?"
"Not yet…" she answered testily, looking back at Emma. "But then, I only found out when you came in here that you're my landlord? I thought Gold got Henry to take when he cleared off? Then you go telling me you want to meet in private? If you're thinking of upping the rent for this place, I'm telling you, here and now, that I won't be sticking around if you do! We barely make enough to break even as it is, and it's not like we can get many new paying visitors, is it?"
"Fair point," he drained the last of his mug, putting it down. "Okay, let me explain? The reason Henry isn't going to be managing things, even though he part owns it with Gideon, is because he's just about to go to University, which is a three-and-a-half hour drive from here, for the next three years. And he'll only be coming back at the end of each term and for holidays and short breaks? So, I'm helping by taking things off his hands while we get everything sorted out, though I won't be living here either. Then he can focus on his education. And as for the rent-"
"Okay, here we go. How much are you going to try squeezing out of me this time?"
"Nothing! While you're running this place, we're going to cancel all your monthly rent and rates going forward. I'm also arranging for Mr. Dove, my dad's old assistant, to help you organise some painters and decorators to come in and help tidy the place up a bit? Because damn girl, you have to admit it needs it? You'll be able to organise them, choose whatever colours you want and everything, and I'll be picking up the cost, not you."
"No rent? You're serious?"
"Very. Should you finally decide to leave or, as we all do eventually, pass away, we'll think again. Or at least, Henry and Gideon will, as I'll only be managing things from Boston. You can put the money saved into your pension or something."
She looked at him suspiciously. And far from looking grateful, the old wolf's scowl returned. "Why are you doing this? You think I'm some sort of charity case?"
"Far from it! The Dark One created the curse that the Evil Queen used, to bring you all here, without your consent? And for you to manage this place, with twelve bedrooms to let, in a town where no one's allowed to come visit? You've put up with plenty over the years, and this is just a small way towards compensating you for it. Mrs. Lucas, I'm not the Dark One! I'm just a guy trying to put right some of the many injustices my father was forced to carry out by the dark entity controlling him."
"Hmph. If what you're saying's even remotely true..."
"He's telling the truth, Granny." Emma had been listening quietly, and her inbuilt lie detector could tell he was being honest. Despite being a real smug pain in the ass sometimes, Neal was, underneath it all, a decent guy.
"Hmph," she repeated, the scowl slowly replaced by a grudging nod. Probably the nearest he was going to get to any gratitude ."He called it a 'Cardiac Special you say?" She then broke into a little grin for once. Henry had long been one of her favourite people in town. "Cheeky sod! I'll be having words with him when I see him!"
"Well, you'll have your chance sooner than you think? He'll be in here in twenty minutes, so he'll probably have one, too."
As she turned to leave them with the order, Neal called out again.
"Oh, and Granny, if I can call you that? The reason I asked to see you later in private has nothing to do with rent. It's because I got approached before I left to come back. By your brother. Amorok?"
"My…" The old she-wolf's eyes widened, then watered at a name she hadn't heard for a long time. One of her six older brothers, Amorak had been the one who'd saved her from certain slaughter after she'd been captured in human form by a gang of paid mercenaries. He'd broken her out of an earl's dungeon, at huge risk, along with two of her brothers and her daughter Anita. But he'd paid for the daring rescue with his life, after deliberately going back to slow down the pursuing guards, giving them time to escape. "What about him."
"I'll need to read through the notes he gave me first. But from what I recall, he said you have a brother who's still alive? Let's have a chat in private after I've eaten?"
The Gold Mansion – later that evening
Belle walked into her bedroom with a small tray, to discover Snow was still in the en suite bathroom, having been there at least half an hour. She tapped on the door.
"You still okay in there?"
"Definitely!" Groaned a soft voice from the other side of the door. "This bath's heavenly! I've only had showers since I came back, apart from that horrible one in the hospital. But nothing like this with all the oils and everything? Seems a shame to get out."
"Then don't?" Belle smiled, hearing the contented moan. She'd always preferred long leisurely soaks to showers herself, and still had quite the collection of bath foams and luxurious oils, usually acquired by Rumple from god-knows where. "Stay in, there's no rush. I was just letting you know that Neal got back twenty minutes ago, completely shattered, and he's opened a bottle of scotch downstairs for a nightcap before he heads to bed? I'm having one myself, and I brought one up for you? Should I leave it outside?"
"Whisky? Ooh, sounds lovely. Yes please? Could you bring it in?"
"If you're sure?"
"Belle, I've spent most of the last month virtually naked under a patient gown with wires and drips coming out of me? I'm pretty sure any dignity I once had has been shot to hell by now. Come in?"
So, she stepped inside the bathroom, to find Snow lounging in a bath of milky white water, rather than foam, her head and shoulders resting back on the sloping end of the large bath.
"Ah, I see you found my French lavender oil soak? That's my favourite."
"Oh, sorry!" Snow suddenly sat upright from under the water, looking guilty as hell."I didn't think? I'm sorry, I'll pay for-"
"It's fine!" She interrupted, chuckling. "Seriously, Snow. It's there to be used. I can't blame you. It smells heavenly."
"It does, doesn't it? But I suppose I should get out now anyway. Didn't you say you wanted to have a bath yourself?"
"I am a bit sweaty from moving all those boxes earlier, but it's no problem; I can always leave it till the morning? You have a relax and-"
"No, no, it's your bath for heaven's sake! Take it! But I might've have used a bit too much of the oil though." She straightened, ready to stand and get out. "It's still hot enough, so I'll get out and you get in?" As Belle started to shake her head to refuse, she added. "Or you could join me?"
Had Snow suggested that six weeks ago, She would've freaked. But having spent the last month in the more-than close company of Olivia, Jerard and Ruby, she'd become far less self-conscious about her own body. She'd even shared a bath with Olivia on one occasion, after having sex, on one of their numerous stops on the East coast. And with the privacy of the ocean, away from unwanted attention or prying eyes for hours, they'd even wandered around topless on deck, or completely naked on one occasion. And now, looking at the raven-haired princess looking up at her, her mind went back to what'd happened last night.
"You sure?"
"Of course! There's loads of room. Come on in?" She even had a smile on her face.
"Okay. Thanks." Belle removed her gown, hanging it on the little silver hook on the bathroom door, alongside Snow's. Then removed her cotton PJs and knickers, folding and placing them on the loo seat.
"The bottom's really slippery, so do be careful getting in?" Snow raised an arm, offering her a hand. And as the former librarian turned to face her, Snow was struck by just how beautiful the other woman's body really was. Although they'd shared a bed last night, this was the first time she'd seen her naked. Although shorter than her by a good four inches, Belle had a slight, gamine quality; smaller framed, but with slightly wider, more curvaceous hips. Her breasts were a little larger than her own too, with noticeably darker areolae and slightly more prominent nipples. And as her eyes roamed over the rest of her almost fully-tanned body, they were drawn to the almost complete lack of hair below, the area clearly having been shaved recently.
Belle noticed her staring, her eyes clearly raking up and down her body, almost in…appreciation? Far from being offended, she felt almost…proud. And she couldn't resist saying something.
"Like what you see?" She smirked as she took her hand to carefully climb into the bath, before carefully easing herself down directly in front of her, into the surprisingly still-warm water, to settle opposite.
Snow looked up at her grinning, realising she'd been caught ogling. Busted!
"I do actually. You're a very beautiful woman, Belle."
"Thank you," she slid lower, only her neck and shoulders now visible over the milky water. "I was thinking much the same about you? David's a damn fool to have let you go."
"Thanks, but I'd rather we didn't talk about him, if you don't mind? I'm going to be going back to the farm tomorrow to see them all, and that's going to be awkward enough, as it is."
"Understood," Belle stretched herself under the warm water, settling one leg under Snow's right, the other over her left, to give them more room to stretch. "I'd rather not talk about Rumple either, or my problems." She leant back, her head now resting against the warm porcelain, mirroring Snow at the opposite end, their shoulders and breasts now fully exposed above the waterline. Belle tried to focus only on her face, rather than below, and was surprised to find the usually coy princess didn't seem in the least self-conscious. She reached for the whisky glasses she'd left on the little side table, handing one to her. Snow took it, clinking them together.
"Cheers." Taking a good glug of the scotch, she sighed, leaning back again. "So, what should we talk about instead?"
"Well…" Snow hesitated. "I suppose we could talk about what happened last night?"
"You mean us kissing?" Snow nodded, and Belle knew it'd probably come up at some point. They'd avoided any mention of it all day. "Yes, we kissed quite a lot, as I recall? Though we had had a lot to drink. Why? Regretting it?"
"No, only the hangover!" She took another sip. "I may have had too much to drink, but not enough to forget. It was…nice. You?"
"The same, although I would have said 'really' nice? You're a good kisser."
"Thanks. Though as we're being honest, I'd say last night's were some of the best kisses I've ever had? But then again, it could've been the drink talking and you've probably had a lot more practise than me?"
Belle actually laughed out loud at that. "I don't know whether to take that as a really nice compliment, or a bitchy aside?" She took another sip from her glass. "Any practise I've had has been recent. But you're hardly a novice yourself, Snow White. Not when you kiss like that!"
"Thanks. So after everything that's happened recently, do you think you're more into girls these days, or boys?"
"I really don't know. A bit of both, I guess? The couple on the boat with us, Jerard and Olivia, were both pretty awesome in their own right? They're both bi and they've been in an open relationship for quite some time? Though they're very close, and frankly because they're both so gorgeous either of them could have anyone they wanted."
"So, you were able to keep it as just sex between the four of you? You didn't start getting…feelings, for one of them?"
"Erm…not sure. You may get a chance to meet them yourself, if you're staying in Portland, as they said they'll probably sail up there before the winter."
"Really?" Snow drained the rest of her glass, putting it aside, giving her a knowing grin. "You think they'd like me?"
"Definitely. Are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting?"
"Why not? I'm single, so I could always do with more close…friends."
"Wow, you really aren't the Snow White I remember?" Belle drained her glass, putting it down. "So, back to those kisses?"
"Nope, I'm Mary Margaret Blanchard, and as I said, I don't have any regrets about kissing you." The former princess sat upright, scooping up some of the milky lavender bath water in her hands, looking up at her coquettishly as she poured it over her shoulders and chest. "So much so, that I wouldn't mind a little repeat? But this time sober?"
"You sure?" Belle sat herself up, definitely interested as she raised her right knee and slid herself forward on the slippery bath bottom. Their wet chests were now only a couple of feet apart. "What about your, erm, bruising?"
"It's all hidden, but it's still a bit tender where they went in under the surface on the right, just here…" Putting a hand under Belle's raised knee, she pulled herself in even closer, as she pointed to the area, their parted, intertwined legs now bringing their mounds to within inches of each other. "I'm fine, providing it doesn't get squeezed too hard?"
"Fair enough. You sure you wa-" But she didn't get a chance to finish as Snow's soft padded lips sealed against her own, before she felt warm hands sliding around her shoulders and up into her hair, fingers reaming through her locks, holding her in place while a tongue passed through her lips. Belle instinctively reacted in kind, stopping only when she felt a new warmth against her chest. Lips parting, they both looked down to the sight of their breasts pressed together.
"That's a nice view, don't you think?"
"I do…" Belle raised a hand to her right breast, lifting it slightly to drag a turgid nipple against Snow's smaller pink bud, several times, before releasing it. "And there's other nice things I can show you after we get out of this bath, if you're interested?"
"Teach me. I'm all yours."
~oOo~