Author's Note: Wow, this chapter took a long time to write. I hope you guys like it. Please review/comment.
Chapter Five: Who Is The Monster And Who Is The Man?
"She's beautiful," Collette said, looking down at the precious baby she had delivered not hours before. It had been a long labor, longer than had been for either of the baby's older sisters.
But it had been worth it.
This precious child, so full of life and light, smiled up at her mother, and Collette just knew she was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen.
"She gets that from you," Sir Maurice said, looking at his wife with adoration. She had been a champion during the birth, as she always was.
"Look how curious her eyes are," Collette said. "It's like she knows, somehow, what a wonderful life awaits her."
"A beautiful child who will be a beautiful girl, find a good husband-"
"Don't talk of such things, Maurice. I'm not ready to lose her to a man just yet. She's only just arrived." She smiled at him. "What shall we name her?"
"A beauty like that? Why, Belle, of course. What other name would fit?"
"Belle," Collette said, smiling down at her newborn daughter. "What do you think of the name, Purple?" But Purple, the noble family's patron fairy had gone pale. "Purple? Are you ill?"
She shook her head, "I am so sorry," she said, her voice shaking. "So very, very sorry."
"What have you foreseen?" Sir Maurice asked. For Purple had made pronouncements over their first two daughters. She had said that they would grow up loved and marry well. They would amass great riches and be doted upon by their husbands.
"I shouldn't say. I … I might be wrong."
"Purple, please," Collette implored. "We must know. What is the fate of our child?"
"She … she will be beautiful, like her name, and she will be well-loved, but …" Purple sighed, shaking her head. "…But she is destined to be the wife of a monster."
And as often happens when such pronouncements are made, there was a flash of lightning and a crack of thunder as it began to pour outside.
"She will not marry a monster," Sir Maurice said with more confidence than he felt. "She will not marry anyone. The girl shall never leave the castle grounds."
Emma had been in many foster homes over the years. When she was nine, she lived with a young couple in Bangor. The man, Mr. Crackle, did something with movies. Emma didn't understand his business, and he never let her ask questions, but looking back, she was pretty sure he was a director of low budget plays. His wife was a struggling actress.
They would send Emma to bed early and then have all of their work friends come over. The men would smoke cigars, and both men and women would drink booze and stay up schmoozing until all hours of the night. Emma could never sleep through it, so she would watch from the little closet-sized room they had given her. The people looked glamorous, but they acted strangely, and the room smelled horrible. But what Emma remembered most about it was that when everybody left, her foster father would start yelling at her foster mother. Sometimes he would throw a bottle against the wall so that the glass broke. And then he would go after her foster mother, sometimes with his hands, sometimes with the broken bottle. And the woman would scream, and scream. And then, the next day, she would limp around and act as nothing had happened. She always looked so sad, and she was clearly in pain, but the one time Emma had asked her about it, she had slapped Emma so hard that Emma never brought it up again.
Now, helping Aria up off the gravel outside Granny's, hearing the woman insist that she didn't need a hospital, Emma couldn't help but flashback to that time.
"Let's get you up to the room, so you can clean up at least," Emma said.
"I … I don't want to be trouble. That is, I don't -"
"Neal, throw down my winter coat." Neal obliged. "There," she said, wrapping the woman up in the coat, "Now nobody will be able to tell anything."
The woman gave her a grateful nod. They made their way to the room where Emma and Neal were staying, and Emma helped the woman onto the bed. Then, reluctantly, she gave Emma the coat back, revealing her bruised and beaten body. Emma heard a gasp and turned to see Henry at the door.
"Kid, I want you to go back to your room."
"Mom-"
"I'm not joking around here. Neal! Get him out!"
"Come on, kid, let's go see your grandpa downstairs."
Henry wasn't the most obedient kid in the world, not when he was passionate about something. She knew it might take a fight to get him to leave, but she couldn't deal with a fight right now. This woman needed her attention.
By some miracle, Neal was able to get Henry out of the room. She thanked whatever deity existed for Neal and the way he was always there for her.
"You're lucky that I'm a mother," Emma said with a forced chuckle as she got her first-aid-kit out of her luggage. "Cuts and scrapes are to be expected with kids, so I always carry the essentials. First things first, alcohol."
"That sounds great."
"I meant rubbing alcohol. Cleaning the cuts."
"Oh." Emma nodded and started cleaning the woman up as best she did, "I didn't mean that like it probably, what I mean is, I don't drink a lot, I just … it's been a long night."
Emma nodded, "I get long nights. Believe me." The woman winced a little, "Sorry for the sting."
"I've had worse."
"So, I'm Emma by the way."
"I know." And when Emma raised her eyebrow at the woman, she added quickly, "I mean, Henry told me."
"You know Henry?"
"I … gave him a book."
"Oh. Yeah, he mentioned that some woman … what did you say your name was?"
"I didn't. But it's Aria."
"Broadway-bound girl, and now Aria. Musical town." Emma continued to clean Aria, taking inventory of her wounds. The cuts and scrapes, Emma could take care of; it was the possible internal bleeding that worried her. Aria needed to see a real doctor. Problem was, Emma knew what would happen next. She would ask Aria who hurt her, and Aria would refuse to tell her. And if she pushed, Aria would scamper off faster than you could say 'assault'. Emma didn't have any kind of authority here. She couldn't make Aria see a doctor. And if she forced her, she risked losing the woman's trust. But if she didn't …
"Do you … have any friends? Someone who might help you out, I mean?" Aria shook her head. Emma sighed. Nobody else she might listen to. It had to be Emma. "Listen, you don't have to tell me what happened or who … but you have to see a doctor. You could have internal bleeding, and that can be really dangerous if it goes unchecked."
Aria shook her head, "People will … ask questions."
"This wasn't a random attack, was it? Someone you know did this?" She already knew the answer, even before she asked the question. She had known the second she saw Aria beaten down on the street.
"I thought you said I didn't have to tell you-"
"I just want to help. And I know how that sounds. I heard it a million times growing up, but I swear, I will not direct you to a doctor and then forget about you. I am here for you. As long as you need. In any way you need."
"I thought … Henry said you were just visiting."
"We're staying," Emma said, not stopping to think about it. "We'll stay for as long as we need to."
"You're going to move to another state for a stranger."
"I happen to know two people who once turned their lives upside-down for a stranger. And my job is to help people in bad situations. You're in a bad situation, and if you need me to stay in town until you're not anymore, then I'm staying. End of discussion."
After a minute, Aria nodded. "I'll see a doctor. But this is going to get complicated."
Something wasn't right. There was blood on the floor. That had happened before. He had just beaten his wife. That had happened before too. All of these things had happened before, so why did Jack suddenly feel so different? Why did it feel like this was the first time? There had been many nights when he'd been angry, when he'd been drunk, when Aria had been maddening and he could only think of Selena and what he didn't have with her. He had done this before. And it had been fine. He had been fine. But now he wasn't. He heard the sound of his hand hitting her flesh echoing in his mind, and somewhere inside him, he believed she deserved it. He really did. But then why did he feel so … guilty? Was that what he was feeling? Why now? Why like this?
He found himself stumbling down to The Rabbit Hole, a local watering hole. He had never actually been there before. He had a reputation in this town, and anyway, he preferred to do his drinking alone. But tonight, he wanted something else. He wasn't sure what. Maybe he wanted his conscience to shut up, or maybe he wanted to understand why he suddenly felt like he had one.
"What can I get for you?" the man behind the bar asked. He was tall and tan, with bushy hair and a charming smile. Jack loathed him instantly.
"Just something to take the edge off," Jack said, trying to sound casual.
"Coming right-"
"Ben!" A gruff-looking man approached the bar. The bartender's eyes widened, as the man continued, "I was planning on going to the Glass Slipper tonight, night out with the boys."
"That sounds … pleasant," Ben stuttered.
"Problem is, I'm a little short on cash. So, I had an idea. Why don't I go visit that lowlife Ben and see if he's got the cash he owes me?"
"Yes, well, I'm working just now, so if you don't-"
"I don't think you heard me correctly," The man said, reaching across the bar and grabbing Ben by the shirt.
It seemed a brawl was about to break out. It would serve the good-looking bartender right to get messed up a bit. But then, did Jack really need to witness any more violence today? Sure, he could just slip out, but maybe a good deed would help quiet his conscience.
"How much does the lad owe?" he heard himself ask.
"What are you, his mummy, come to save him?"
"I'm just a reasonable man; close personal friend of the mayor, as a matter of fact." The thug dropped Ben, who got to his feet and made ready to leave. The thug put his arm out to stop him.
"What's a 'close personal friend' of the mayor's doing in a dive like this, then?"
"I fancied a drink. But I'm tired of this scene. Since you seem so keen on this Glass Slipper place, maybe I'll try it, see if it's more my speed. I'd be happy to cover your tab."
The thug deliberated for a moment, then nodded, "Don't think I won't be back, but it looks like your friend here just bought you a day. I wouldn't waste it."
As they left The Rabbit Hole, Jack had the strangest sensation in his chest. He didn't know what it was, or even if he wanted to find out. He had just helped a complete stranger for lord knew why, and something about it felt almost … nice.
It was raining outside. Rain. It was so beautiful in a melancholy sort of way. Belle imagined it felt like bathing, perhaps, or maybe slightly different. She wasn't really sure. There was a book she had read where two lovers ran away during a thunderstorm and one was struck down by a lightning bolt. It was a tragedy. But to run in the rain…
Belle had never felt the rain of course. She'd never been allowed outside her father's castle. Her whole life she had been stuck indoors, with only her parents and her sisters for company. But her sisters would marry soon, and her parents were busy. That would leave her alone. Except, of course, for the books. The books were her greatest friends. She loved them dearly. They told of other worlds and grand adventures, of epic loves and moral tests, of bravery and right overcoming wrong. They told her about the world that she would never see, and she wished so much that she could go out and experience it all for herself.
But that was not an option. Her father feared the pronouncement that had been made at her birth, that she would marry a monster. She was not allowed outside, and nobody outside the castle knew that she existed. Her father wanted no monster to come and try to woo his daughter. She was simply allowed her books. It would be easy to be resentful of the tales that teased her with something she could never have, but she was so grateful for what they brought her. Still, she did get bored, and she did get lonely.
As she examined the castle library, she noticed a book she had never seen before. It was large and brown with the words "Once Upon A Time" written on the cover. But when she opened it, she saw that it was blank. How curious, she thought, closing it and feeling the strangest spark through her fingertips as she did so. She must be imagining things. She must be tired. And so, with the book still in her grasp, she closed her eyes and rested.
"Do you want some ice cream, buddy?"
Henry rolled his eyes. "Seriously? There's a woman injured back at Mom's hotel room and the three of us are going to get ice cream?"
"Come on. There's nothing in this world that ice cream can't fix. Right Pop?"
Henry's grandfather nodded.
"This is a big deal. First of all, she's a friend of mine-"
"What do you mean, a friend of yours?" Henry tried to look innocent. He was not successful. "Henry?"
"She's kind of been hiding out in my hotel room for the past couple of days."
"Henry! How could you … you don't even know this woman-"
"But she needed help. She was scared, and running away from something and this town is cursed and we're here to help people, so I had to-"
"What do you mean, cursed?" His grandfather asked, looking more interested in the conversation than he had up until this point.
"You wouldn't believe me," Henry muttered.
"Henry, whatever you say to me, I will believe."
Well, his grandfather sounded earnest at any rate. "Okay, so there's this book. It talks about all the characters from fairytales that I heard about growing up. But the important part is that there was this evil witch, the Wicked Witch, like from The Wizard of Oz, except then she came to the Enchanted Forest and became The Evil Queen, getting Snow White to eat the poison apple and all that, but then Prince Charming saves Snow White and they get married-"
"Henry, what does this have to do-?" his father began.
"I'm getting there." Henry said, rushing to get it all out, "So The Evil Queen was mad and she was defeated by Snow White and Prince Charming, but she was a sore loser and she couldn't accept it and she cast this curse to send everybody to another land—a land without magic—where everything would be what she wanted it to be, and everybody would forget who they were and just be how she wanted them-"
"Henry-"
"Let him continue," his grandfather said, urgency in his voice.
"But Snow White and Prince Charming found out that the curse could be broken. The Blue Fairy told them how. They had to send their daughter to our world, separate from the curse, and then she would come back and break it."
Both his dad and his granddad were silent for a moment. Finally, leaning down, his father said, "But Henry, even if that were true, what would it have to do with us? If Snow White's daughter-"
"I forgot the most important part. She was supposed to come back on her twenty-eighth birthday, and that's when we got here, when mom turned twenty-eight. And they named their daughter Emma and wrapped her up in a baby blanket with her name on it, so people would know what to call her. So don't you see? It's Mom! She's the daughter of Snow White and Prince Charming! She's supposed to break the curse! She's the Savior."
His dad looked like he had been slapped. He started to stumble back. "No. No! Emma can't be … from there." There was a tone of disgust as he said the last two words.
"I know it sounds crazy. I thought so too at first. But too many things add up and … please, please just consider-"
"I believe you, Henry," his grandfather said. Now Henry stepped back, surprised.
"You do?"
"Yes, and your father … your father will come around." He looked over at Henry's father who was just standing there staring off at nothing with a look of terror on his face. "But I think we best not tell your mom about this yet. She won't take to it as easily as I am."
"I know that," Henry said, smiling and rolling his eyes. "I know how Mom is. But we'll have to tell her eventually. She can't break the curse if she doesn't know."
The car ride had been silent. Emma hadn't wanted to risk the tentative trust she seemed to have gained. Aria was obviously still skittish, and one wrong word could have her heading off in the wrong direction. When they got to the hospital, though, she had to take charge.
"Well just look at you, Sweetie. What happened?" the receptionist asked.
When Aria didn't answer, Emma replied, "Can we see a doctor please?"
The receptionist nodded. "It's a slow day, so there shouldn't be much of a wait. Why don't you just fill out this form?"
Emma took the form when Aria didn't. "So I can fill this out for you, but you're going to need to answer the questions still. Like, your last name." Aria's eyes widened. She looked ready to run. "It's just for their records."
"I know, but my husband's well-known in this town, and I don't want him… to worry." The last few words came out a little weaker than the first.
"We don't have to deal with that right now. Think of this as a step-by-step thing. You just have to worry about the next step. Don't worry about what might happen down the line, or even later today. Just deal with answering these questions."
Wincing, Aria stuttered out, "Scathe. My last name is Scathe."
"Date of birth?" Aria told her. "Do you have insurance?"
"I… don't know."
"Well, I wish we could leave it blank, but it's kind of an important one."
"I… I don't think I'm covered, but I'll figure out how to pay somehow."
Emma nodded, and they continued down the list. Married, and he didn't even have her covered under his insurance? Or was Aria just scared to call him? Either way, the guy was clearly a bastard. But then, Emma had known that the second she'd seen those bruises.
Before long, the paper was filled out and returned to the receptionist, and they were soon sent back to see the doctor. "Hello Aria," said a kindly looking woman, "My name is Dr. Plum. Why don't you tell me why you're here today?"
"I … had an accident? I mean, it wasn't an accident, obviously. I was … attacked … by a stranger. A strange man. I didn't see his face."
"Well, that's horrible. I've never heard of anything like that happening in Storybrooke. Have you spoken with the mayor?"
Emma snorted. "Why would she tell the mayor?" Dr. Plum shot her a look, "I mean, wouldn't law enforcement … in a town like this, you must have a sheriff or a-"
"We do, but the mayor cares what happens to all of us. And Mr. Scathe is her personal assistant, so I'm sure she'd be especially interested. That's your husband, isn't it? Mr. Scathe?"
Aria winced again, mumbling out a weak yes.
"I've met him. He's a very charming man."
"They always are," Emma said under her breath.
"Beg pardon?"
Emma opened her mouth, but Aria shot her a desperate look. "Husbands. Charming. I mean, mine is so …"
"Yes. You're that new family passing through, aren't you?"
"Yes. But we're actually going to be sticking around for a bit. There are worse places to settle."
"Settle? Interesting. Excuse me, Aria, I just have to make a quick call. Hospital business."
Aria nodded, and Dr. Plum made her way out of the office, Emma eyeing her the whole way. Once she was gone, Aria turned to Emma. "Please stop."
"I'm just trying-"
"You don't know what life here is like. This town … it's not as pleasant as everyone says. Not for all of us."
"So you're not in love with the mayor?"
"My husband is," Aria said quietly. Emma's mouth formed an O. "He wants to be with her, and he hates me for being the reason that he can't."
"Why do you stay with him?"
"I … I just don't feel like I have any other choice. I have to stay with him."
"Just picture, for a second, that you didn't. Just picture yourself leaving. What's the worst that could happen? I mean, it doesn't even sound like he wants you to stay, and if you both want out-"
"It's not that simple."
"I know. It's never simple. But you were wrong when you said you don't have a choice. Only you can decide your fate."
"My fate was decided for me a long time ago, Emma. I was always meant for this life. There was never another choice."
She didn't remember how she got here. It wasn't her father's palace, she was sure of that much She knew every inch of that place. No, this was somewhere else. It was still a palace, but of a different sort. It was grand to be certain. It was almost scary how grand it was. The ceilings were higher than any Belle had ever seen. And there was a spinning wheel in the corner.
"Who are you?" a voice asked. "What are you doing here?"
Belle spun around, but she could not see anyone. "Who's there?"
"This is my castle. You are not welcome!" There was a strangeness to the voice, something powerful, and terrifying, yet somehow … silly. It thrilled Belle.
"Is that a threat?"
"It might be."
"And what is a great ominous voice from nowhere going to do to me?"
"I'm much more than that, Dearie, I assure you."
"Well, whatever you are, you're very rude. Yelling at me for stumbling on your castle. I don't even know how I ended up here, but I'm certainly not going to flee into the night because a voice tells me to."
"You are either very brave, or very stupid."
Belle smiled, "I'll choose to take the compliment, if you don't mind."
"If you don't fear me, perhaps I should introduce myself. My name is Rumpelstiltskin. I am … The Dark One."
"Is that supposed to mean something to me? I've never heard of any 'Dark One.'"
"You haven't?" He sounded mystified.
"No. And if you ask me, it's a terrible name. All full of mystery, I suppose, but also very general. Why not just have people call you Rumpelstiltskin? That's the better name, I think."
"You like it?"
"Well, it's unique. I've never heard its like before. And mother always said that names tell you something about a person."
"I'm not a person."
"Right. You're a voice."
"No. I'm The Dark One."
"And I told you, that means nothing to me."
"Have you ever heard of Beowulf?"
"Of course. He was a hero of The First Ogres War."
"Well, I killed him. Of course, he was a bit of a prick. Incidentally, I killed the Ogres, too."
"So you're some kind of hero, then?"
"No! Weren't you listening? I murdered someone. I am a monster, and you'd do well to be frightened of me."
"Well, you were obviously very powerful in your day, if you could do that. But truthfully, there's nothing conclusive in the history books as to just what it was that ended the First Ogres War and anyway, that was almost three centuries ago."
"What? It was last year."
"Oh, dear. You're clearly confused. I don't suppose I can trust anything you say. This whole Dark One business. Why, this may not even be your castle."
"It is my castle! I dreamed up the perfect … dream. You're a dream. That's what's going on, isn't it? This is a dream, and you're a figment, like Zoso. That's why you're not afraid of me."
"I'm not afraid of you because a voice is only so scary, and I don't know who Zoso is, but I promise you, I am real!"
The voice laughed— a strange and frightful noise. "Well, if you're a dream, I suppose you're harmless. You're better company than Zoso, at any rate, even if you are argumentative. What's your name, figment?"
"I'm not a figment, and my name is Belle."
"Belle. Well, Belle, enjoy haunting my castle. But in time, I will find a way to make you fear me, figment or no."
Belle smiled, "That sounds like a challenge. All right, Rumpelstiltskin, give me the best you've got."
Right after she said it, the wind started to wail. The windows and shutters shook. As much as she hated to admit it, it actually was quite frightening. So frightening, in fact, that Belle bolted awake.
"What a strange dream," she said, picking up the book on her lap. But as she moved to close it, she noticed it was no longer blank. Filling the early pages was a picture of Belle herself in the castle from her dream. Next to it was the beginnings of a story. It detailed her dream, the dialogue matching word for word, and stopping short when she woke up. Belle flipped to the page before the picture and read the title: "Beauty and the Beast."
Jack had never been to the Glass Slipper before, but he had heard stories. For the most part, they were favorable. Yes, it was a strip club, but it was high-class in its way. The girls seemed elegant and untouchable, the guests were given champagne, the whole feel of the place was very royal. When he entered, he found it was pretty much what he would have expected. The place was positively medieval, like something out of a storybook. It was hardly the seedy place one would expect to find when seeking "female companionship." But then, Selena would put a stop to something like that right away if it ever cropped up. She wouldn't allow anything bad in her town. She would always protect them. Jack thought of her warm smile, her beautiful red hair. What would she think of him, if she knew he had wandered into a place like this? Well, he had done his good deed. He had come in and paid for the lads who had been after that bartender. He could leave now. Nobody need ever know … Selena need never know.
"What's your pleasure?" a blonde man behind the bar asked.
"I thought it was just champagne in this place."
"Well, we have it, but there are other options."
Jack shook his head. "Champagne's fine mate." Best to keep his wits about him. "Actually, I think I'll just-"
The place went dark. Lights danced. A royal march began to play.
"Presenting, the Red Queen."
Out on stage came a woman in finery, jewels, and a little red crown. She was every bit a royal, practically plucked right out of Alice Through the Looking Glass. That had always been Jack's favorite book, and as he looked at this girl, she looked just like he had always imagined the Red Queen would look if she were real. She started to dance, and Jack felt himself gulp.
"As I was saying, I'll just get going then." He made for the door.
The music stopped. He turned and saw the Red Queen staring him down, "Sorry Dahlings, but it seems someone is leaving before I'm finished. Can't have that now, can we?" She turned to her right. "Off with his head."
Jack glanced at the bartender, "She likes theatrics. Don't worry. You're just a prop." Well. That was a little insulting.
When he glanced back at The Red Queen he saw she was holding what looked like some kind of weapon, twirling it like a baton. She threw it at him, and he ducked. The bartender caught it, his eyes meeting The Red Queen's. She gave a nod. Jack didn't want to see more; he ran for the exit, ignoring the cheers behind him.
When he was finally clear, he straightened himself up and started for home, knowing he would never set foot in that madhouse again.
"Well, Aria, it appears you're going to be okay. No internal bleeding, no permanent damage. Just surface stuff. You'll be fine." Emma and Aria both noticeably relaxed.
"So I can go, then?"
"Not just yet. Sheriff Humbert will be here in a moment to take your statement. "
"What?" Aria asked, shooting a panicked glance at Emma.
"You said you were attacked by a strange man. I was obligated to report it. We can't have a criminal like that roaming the streets of Storybrooke, now can we?"
"I suppose … All right. I'll talk to him. But I didn't really see what the man looked like. Could've been a strong woman for all I know."
"Regardless, it's sheriff's business now. I'm sure we'll all sleep safer knowing Sheriff Humbert is on the job."
She left the room, presumably to get the sheriff.
"What do I … Emma, what do I do?"
"You could always-"
"I can't tell him the truth. Jack … I just can't."
"But if you lie to him, it'll start a manhunt for a non-existent criminal. Isn't that a waste of the sheriff's time?"
"Please. You said you understood. Didn't you ever lie to a sheriff?"
"The cops … yeah, I fed them some stories in my day. They weren't equipped to help me, and I thought I knew better. But I actually can help you, if you let me."
"Then please, help. But don't make me tell him-"
"Hello, ladies." An attractive, tall man with a scruffy beard and an accent said, as he came in the room. "Aria, are you all right?"
"I will be, Graham. Just a little banged up is all. No harm done."
Graham gave Aria a kind smile, "Well, can you describe the man who attacked you?"
"He was … short, not little-person short, just, not particularly tall. He wore a mask and … oh, I don't know. It all happened so fast."
"She's had a long day," Emma supplied. "Maybe this isn't the best time for this."
"Ah, I didn't see you there, Miss?"
"Mrs., actually, Mrs. Emma Stiltskin."
"Stiltskin? Really?"
"I know, it's a weird name."
"So how about I just call you Emma then?"
"As long as you don't forget the Mrs. part, that's fine with me."
"If I can interrupt, I'd really like to get out of here."
Graham turned back to her, his expression softening, "Of course. Well, if you remember anything, you know where my office is." He put his hand on her shoulder and she flinched back slightly. "I … I will catch the person who attacked you, Aria. I promise."
"Thanks," Aria said, offering a weak smile.
When Jack got home, he felt worse than he had when he'd left. Today, it seemed, was the strangest day he had had in a long time.
He went to the refrigerator, took out a beer, and took a seat on the sofa. As he drank, he thought about his life. How did he end up here? And where was his wife? It seemed, once again, that she was not home. Maybe she had fallen in a ditch somewhere. He recalled the remorse he had felt earlier after beating her. It was mostly gone now. She had deserved it, hadn't she? He was empty, and lost, and unable to pursue the woman he loved. If his wife was not to blame, then who was?
The beer was soothing. Perhaps, today was not a total waste. Still, he did not expect that he would be taking a day off again for a long time. The days when he didn't see Selena were almost unbearable. Even knowing he couldn't be with her, it was always better to be around her.
His phone rang and his heartbeat picked up as he saw who was calling, "Good'ay Madam Mayor," he said, hoping his words didn't slur. He hadn't had that much to drink just yet, so it should be fine.
"Mr. Scathe, I was just calling to see how poor Aria was coping."
"What'd'ya mean?"
"Oh, have you not heard? Your wife was attacked by some villain roaming the streets. The sheriff is on it of course, but still, the whole thing is horrible. It has me in such a state."
"Aria … Aria was attacked."
"It must be horrible for you, hearing of it like this. She was at the hospital today getting checked out. I haven't gotten a chance to see her yet, but I heard she was injured quite badly. I hate to think of the monster who would do that to your poor wife."
"Yeah, to my poor ..." Jack was trying to think. What could he do? Aria had seen a doctor and now the town … but he was not a suspect. The town thought this was a random attack.
"It's terribly frightening, thinking there's someone so dangerous out there."
"Don't be scared. I could come over, keep ya safe."
"Oh, I couldn't ask you to do that. You should be with your wife at a time like this, tending to her needs. She's very lucky indeed to have you there for her, just as I am to have David. It's times like these a woman realizes just how lucky she is to have a strong man to take care of her. And David is certainly strong. He can protect me quite well. I'm probably worrying over nothing. I have a husband who loves me and who would tear any other man to shreds. The man who hurt Aria could never stand against him."
"You're probably right," Jack said, a bitter taste in his mouth. "Still, until he gets home, let me-"
"You are to be with your wife, and that is the last I want to hear on the subject. And do let me know if there is anything I can do to help, yes?"
"Right. Yeah."
"Cheers, then."
"Cheers."
Jack sat and stewed. He wasn't sure what made him angrier, that Aria had the nerve to go to a doctor, or that Selena had David about to protect her. Well, it seemed he should go track Aria down and play the worried, dutiful husband. And afterward, they were going to have a talk.
"Are you not tired of trying to scare me?" Belle asked, examining the arrow that had just flown past her head into the wall. It had been many months since that first dream, and Belle was growing quite used to this castle and the voice that claimed to own it. It always came up with something theatrical. Today it was flaming arrows.
"You're not as brave as you claim to be. You have been scared at times," he said.
"I never claimed to be brave. But I can claim that I am not stupid. I know these are dreams. Dreams of a mystical sort, surely, but dreams all the same."
"You can tremble in a dream, dearie, just the same as in life."
"Perhaps. Perhaps, you can even die in them. But I started to think about that, and you know what I realized? For all your attempts to scare me, you've never actually harmed me. You throw things at me, but they always miss their target. You can't hurt me, or else you don't want to. And if I can't be harmed in these dreams, I have no reason to feel afraid."
"Why wouldn't I want to hurt you?"
"I think you're lonely."
"Lonely. Ha! I am not alone. I have my son, the only family I need."
"I didn't know you had a son."
The voice didn't answer.
"Will you … will you tell me about him?"
"Why?"
"Well, I'm curious. I don't get to talk to many people."
It seemed, for a moment, like he wouldn't answer, but then, "His name is Baelfire. He's a brave boy, always wanting to prove himself. He likes adventure. And he's smart, far smarter than I was at his age. I think … I think sometimes he wants more than the life we have. That's why I dreamt up this castle, you see. I would work it out in my mind, work out what it would look like and how big it would be, and then, I would find a spot, use my magic, and create it. We could have servants that would treat Bae like a prince; he could wear a crown; he could have everything … "
"How old is your son?"
"He's fourteen."
"Well, this is a grand castle, truly, but I'm not sure that there is much about it that an adventurous fourteen-year-old would find exciting."
"How dare you-?"
"You want him to be happy. I understand that, and it's admirable, but I do have some experience with being shut up in a castle, and I don't think it's necessarily the solution you're looking for-"
"The word solution implies there is a problem. I give my son everything."
"But does he want to live in a castle?"
"Why wouldn't he?"
"Castles can be stifling, overwhelming … lonely."
"How can he be lonely when we're together?"
"I had my parents my whole life, and I love them both dearly, but people need … people. They need to be able to go out and live, to have adventures, to see the world."
"You think I should take him traveling?"
"I think that you should ask him what he wants. Oh, I'm not saying children have all the answers. What he wants may not be what is best for him, but if it's good for him, and what he wants, well nothing can make you a hero in his eyes more than to give him exactly that."
"I tried to be a hero. It didn't take. I'm a monster, after all."
"And why can't you be both? Didn't you say you ended the First Ogre War? Why does that not make you a hero?"
"Because I am the Dark One."
"But what does that mean?"
"It's a very old curse. I took it on to save Bae. Being the Dark One means having unthinkable power. Nobody can stand up to me. But there is a price. The fear on their faces, the Darkness in my soul. The man I was before, he was a coward who ran from war. The man I am now can take a life without blinking, and I do. I may not have harmed you, dearie, but make no mistake, I have harmed. I have killed. And I have liked it. How can that not make me a monster? I've learned to live with these things. There is power in having people fear you, power in knowing you can crush any man. Rumpelstiltskin was weak, and I am strong."
"But it sounds like a part of you doesn't want it, this darkness. You don't want to kill. Or you don't want to like it."
"Wanting means nothing. I am what I am."
"If you believe that, you'll never have the life you want. We can change our fate."
"The last time I tried to change my fate, it cost me my foot, my honor, and I fear, my wife."
"But you can't just give up. You said your son is brave. What would he do?"
"I am not my son!"
"What would he do?"
"He would try to fight. But Belle, there are some battles you cannot win."
"That's a great reason to not try."
"Belle-"
"You're not resigned to your fate, and neither am I. It's time we both set out to change what fate has in store for us."
"How?"
"We'll help each other. We'll be there for each other. If you need a reminder, if you need help being strong, just close your eyes, and you'll find me here."
"And you think you can talk me round?"
"Is that not what I'm doing right now? Come on Rumple, let's both make a change. We can have the lives we want."
"I suppose that could … You promise you'll be here?"
"Forever."
"Thanks for bringing it out to me," Aria said, as she took the burger that Emma had gotten her from Granny's. "I just don't want to have to face everyone in there right now."
"You know this isn't your fault, right? That you didn't do anything wrong."
Aria shook her head, "I'd rather just … just eat and not talk about it right now."
Emma nodded, "Fair enough."
They sat on a bench in companionable silence for a little while.
"Aria!" Both girls looked up at the voice. A man was running up to them, out of breath and looking frantic, "I heard what happened. Are you all right?" He came to a stop and put his hands on his knees as he tried to catch his breath.
Emma looked the guy up and down. He wasn't handsome enough to pull off a good con, but he might make a good thief. Based on his fake concern for Aria, she had a feeling his crime was something else entirely.
He came over to Aria and enveloped her in a hug, causing the other woman to wince slightly. The man took a step back from her. "He must've hurt'cha bad, this bloke?"
Aria nodded, "How did you … I mean-?"
"The mayor rang me. Told me everything."
"Of course. Well … thank you for coming, then. I …"
"We should get home. I'll make you some tea and we can … talk … about what happened."
"You don't have to," Emma broke in. "That is, Aria, if you need a place to crash tonight-"
"She's my wife. I'll look after her, thanks. And who are you, anyway?"
"Emma. A friend of Aria's."
He blinked twice, "Right. Well, don't you worry none, Emma. I'll have her home, safe and sound."
"It's all right, Emma, really," Aria said. Emma wondered if Aria actually believed that.
"All right, well, you have my number. If you need anything, a place to crash or … just call me, okay?"
Aria nodded. Then her husband put his arm around her shoulder and led her away.
"I just can't believe it," David said, as he loaded the dishwasher. "In our town. Stuff like this never happens in our town."
"I'm as upset as you are," Zelena said. And she was, but not because of the little tart. After all, she had programmed the thief to hit her, so she expected it to happen. And the girl going to the hospital was moronic, but not something that really inconvenienced her in any way. No, she was concerned because that fairy had told her that the newcomers were planning to settle. When had that happened? Why had that happened? Whatever the answers, they could not be good. Although the elderly gentleman intrigued Zelena. She could smell power on him. He could be useful. Of course, he could also be dangerous, but it was best to cross that bridge when she came to it.
"Did Graham say if she had been … well … violated?" David winced and blushed. He was so innocent at times, so very bland. Sometimes Zelena wondered why she kept him around. But of course, it was to keep him away from that goody-two-shoes wife of his. She could probably get away with having an affair though. He was too loyal to leave her, even if she did. The utter fool. And if she broke his heart, all the better.
"I don't know. The whole thing is just awful."
"We should invite the Scathes over, show our support.
The thief would hate that. Having to play the caring husband in front of her, while David doted, "That sounds like a lovely idea. Aren't you thoughtful?"
"I try." David paused, scrunching up his forehead. "I hate to even suggest this …"
"Yes? Come on, out with it David."
"It's just, nothing like this ever happened before. And then, a new family comes to town, and suddenly … you don't suppose it was one of the Stilskins?"
Now that was an idea. "I certainly hope not. It would be just dreadful. But … I suppose it would make sense."
"I mean, they seemed nice enough when we had them over-"
"Why don't we just … keep an eye on them? And then, if it seems … prudent, go to the sheriff with your suspicions."
"That sounds reasonable."
"Great. Now let's head to bed. All this talk of attack has left me in need of some … comforting."
Mary Margaret had been looking at job postings at Storybrooke's community center when she heard the news. A woman had been attacked on the street. Nobody knew who had done it, but she had been beaten up pretty badly. How badly, well, it was hard to say. The rumor mill had the tale now, and any part of it could be fabricated. Some said the girl was mostly fine, others that she had been beaten within an inch of her life. Either way, it made Mary Margaret feel a little less safe on her walk back to the theater. Which was why she was relieved when she heard an Irish voice call her name, as a familiar man fell into step beside her.
"Good evening Graham," she said companionably.
"Is it?"
"Graham, what's wrong?"
"I'm sure you've heard by now. The attack?" Graham closed his eyes, bit his lip, and shook his head. "How could this happen? How could I not have stopped it?"
"You can't blame yourself for … Graham, it wasn't your fault," Mary Margaret said, putting her hand on his arm. He looked down at it for a minute, then shook his head again.
"It's my job to protect the people of Storybrooke. I failed at that today."
"No-"
"I appreciate your kindness, Mary Margaret. I always have." He gave her a charming smile. "Why don't you let me walk you home. Make sure you get there safe."
"Oh … well, I … I wasn't going to, that is, I was heading to the old theater for, for-"
"Let me walk you there, then. You shouldn't be out this late alone."
Mary Margaret shook her head. "That's really not necessary Graham. I'll manage."
"I just want to know that you're safe. You know that I … That is, that I care about you. About what happens to you." Graham cleared his throat, avoiding her gaze.
Mary Margaret smiled. "You're a good friend, Graham."
"But that's all I'll ever be, isn't it?" It came out quiet, but she heard him, whether he meant her to or not.
"Graham we've … we've talked about this. You're a great guy, and I care about you a lot, but I'm not the settling down sort. I need to be free to spread my wings, to live my life, find adventures. That's not you. You want a family. You want to settle down. You know I can't give you that."
Graham nodded. "I just wish things were different. Because I would take good care of you, you know. I would protect you."
She touched the palm of her hand to the left side of his face, and he closed his eyes, "Oh Graham, I know. But I just need more than that."
They stood like that for a minute, and then she took her hand back. They walked in silence for the rest of the way. "Well, here we are, then. The old theater. What are you planning on doing here at this hour?"
"Just … catching a flick."
Graham nodded. "Well, if you need anything, don't hesitate to-"
"I won't," she said, standing up on her tiptoes to give him a kiss on the cheek. Graham smiled, trying to hide his disappointment. At least he'd got her back safely. That was the important thing.
And for her part, Mary Margaret was grateful. She wished she could care for Graham as he did for her. He was such a dear friend, and certainly attractive. If all he'd wanted from her was one night, or a fling, she could certainly have been okay with a friends-with-benefits sort of thing. But that wasn't what he wanted from her. He wanted a settled, family life. Mary Margaret was anything but settled, and she had no desire to start a family. No, Graham was not for her. She just wished she knew who was.
Selena was sleeping soundly, but David felt restless. It just wasn't right. How could this have happened? How could they be in this kind of danger? Maybe people who lived in cities like New York went to sleep at night with the knowledge that there were dangerous people on the streets, that those they loved could be lost or hurt, but David wasn't used to it. This was Storybrooke, for goodness sake. Selena had worked so hard to keep everyone happy, healthy, and safe, and now …
He thought of his two beautiful children, asleep in their beds, unaware of the danger. They needed to be safe.
David wandered down the hall and took a peek at his daughter and son. They looked so peaceful, so innocent. He owed it to them to keep them safe. He couldn't let them down. With new purpose, David kissed the foreheads of his children, quietly closed the door to their bedroom, and headed out of the house.
"Well, here we are then," Aria said, "Home sweet home, at long last." She didn't know why she was babbling like this. It was stupid, really. It might just provoke him. But he had been silent the whole way home, ever since they'd left Emma on the sidewalk staring after them. Because Aria was certain that going home with her husband was her only option. She appreciated Emma's concern, really she did, but what could Emma really do?
So, she had gone home with him, and he had been silent, acting, for all who might see them, as the concerned, doting husband. Now they were home, away from prying eyes, and if he were going to lash out … but there was really no if. She knew it was coming. It was only a matter of when, and how bad.
"What do you want me to say?" he finally asked, and for a moment, Aria wondered if he actually wanted to know.
"You could say, 'Sorry'." The words slipped out before she had a chance to stop them. She regretted them instantly, but the damage was done.
"Sorry? Are you bloody out of your mind? After what you pulled today-"
"Well, what did you expect? If I hadn't seen a doctor-"
"You've been fine before. But suddenly, you decide to be brave. You've only ever been a sniveling little coward, but today you decide to get up the courage to be stupid!"
Aria shook her head, tears in her eyes, "Please. Please, don't-"
"What, you think I'll smack you around now, today of all days? You think I'm that daft." Aria started. Was he scared? Could what happened today be enough of a threat to make him back off? "Oi, I can see what you're thinkin', and I wouldn't if I was you. Jus' 'cause I'm not gonna stir the pot today doesn't mean you can go off and do whatever you want. I will do whatever I have to to keep you quiet and agreeable. Do we understand each other?"
With a small sob, Aria nodded, and Jack left her there, shaking. Why could she never be brave? Why could she never stand up for herself? Maybe because that would only make it worse. Emma seemed to think otherwise. But Emma was wrong. She had to be. Aria's life would always be this. She would never escape, never be free.
"It's like I'm a prisoner! Not even 'like', I am one."
"Belle, lower your voice," Sir Maurice said.
Belle nodded, gathering herself. She had come in with a purpose, and she planned to get what she wanted, but not by shouting. She was not some brat stamping her foot. She was nearly a grown woman, and she simply wanted the rights that any lady of Avonlea should have. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have shouted. But Papa, you've got to understand. Keeping me from the world … what kind of life is that? It's no life at all."
"I just want-"
"You want to protect me. You want to keep me safe from a monster. But there are all kinds of monsters. Loneliness is a monster, Papa, and I'm tired of being married to it."
"Belle-"
"If it is my fate, then nothing can be done to stop it. Isn't it better that I have a good life? Isn't it better that I get to be happy while I still have a chance to be? Isn't it better I learn to fight, to defend myself against-?"
"You certainly won't be learning to fight! Belle-"
"Now you're shouting. And Papa, I hear you. I've always heard you. Now hear me. My sisters have married and left behind their horses. I have always wanted to learn to ride. So I will go down to the stable, I will mount a horse, and I will ride it. I will ride around the stable, and then the field, and someday, I will ride into town. And if I find a monster there, I will not make him my husband. But I will not let anyone, not a monster, not even you, dictate my fate and keep me from living life."
"Belle-"
"Maurice," Collete said, putting her hand on her husband's arm, "perhaps it's time. We must let the girl live."
Maurice sighed, "Well, I know when I'm out-voted. Very well. You may learn to ride—with an instructor's aid, of course. You may ride around the grounds and, in time … we can discuss town."
"Thank you, Papa."
"Actually," Colette said, standing, "I was quite the rider in my day. How would you like for me to teach you, Belle?"
"I would love that."
How could the sheriff's station be closed? What if there was an emergency? David was steaming. He felt … well, he wasn't sure how he felt. He was angry, but mostly he just felt helpless.
He decided to go walking, try to clear his head. Maybe it would calm him down until tomorrow, until he could speak with the sheriff.
David didn't really know where he was going. He just wandered. It wasn't like he didn't know every inch of this town. It was just that he wasn't giving it much thought. And then he heard it, a soft melody coming from the old theater.
"I see you through the smoky air
Can't you feel the weight of my stare?
You're so close but still a world away
What I'm dying to say, is that …"
It was strange. Who would be singing in the old theater at this hour? But, for whatever reason, it did bring a smile to David's face. A part of him wanted to walk through the door and find out who was there. Maybe it was better, though, to just leave it a mystery. Maybe he would be happier never knowing the singer, or why his heart sped up when he heard her.
David started home, whistling as he went.
Emma was exhausted. It had been an incredibly long day. She hated leaving Aria alone with her husband, but it seemed there was no convincing her otherwise. Not at this point, at least. She wondered how Neal, Jack, and Henry would feel when she told them that they would be staying in Storybrooke. Well, Henry would be happy. She was sure of that. She wasn't nearly so certain about Neal and Jack. Only time would tell.
Neal had certainly been different since they'd gotten here, since they met that woman. But Emma had nothing to worry about.
She knew that.
Yes, she had spent the first fourteen years of her life being abandoned, but in the fourteen years that had followed, the Stiltskins had not abandoned her once. And yes, Neal had his secrets, but she trusted him.
She did.
At least, she wanted to.
"We brought dinner," Jack said, as Henry ran through the door.
"And we brought you ice-cream," Henry added, handing his mom a cup of rocky road.
"Should I assume you are waiting until after dinner to have yours, or-" Emma asked with a raised eyebrow at her son.
"It's not like I'm not still having dinner. I'll eat my vegetables."
"You got vegetables?"
"Potatoes. Okay, technically French fries, but it's from a diner. What kind of vegetables can you find in a diner?"
Emma shook her head. "I'll let it slide. Actually, I wanted to talk to you guys about something."
Henry and his grandfather settled into seats by Emma. Neal was still standing by the door, watching her.
"Shoot," Henry said, taking out his burger.
"Well, how would you guys feel about staying here a little longer, in a little bit of a … more permanent way?"
Henry's eyes lit up. "You mean it?"
Emma nodded, "I think that we've had enough city life for a while. Your dad and I grew up in a place not unlike this one, and it was nice. I think it could be good for you, for all of us. You could transfer and … how do you feel about it?"
"Are you kidding? This is the best news ever!" Henry said, hugging her.
"Okay, kid, calm down."
Henry just smiled, and turned to face his grandfather, who smiled back. "It seems the jury has spoken."
Emma smiled too. "Are you cool with this? I mean -"
"There's little I'm leaving behind. All I need is right in this room. And it's not the first time I've started over without looking back."
"Thanks, Jack. That's … I appreciate it."
Jack nodded, then shot a look at his son, who still hadn't spoken. "Henry, why don't you go get your book from your room, and we can look over it together?" Henry nodded, gave Emma another hug, and bounded off. "I'll wait outside, for the lad."
Once he was gone, Emma waited for Neal to say something, but he just kept staring at her. She couldn't read his expression. When had he become so inscrutable?
"You're quiet."
"What do you want me to say, Emma? How could you just decide this for us?"
"I didn't just … no, you're right. I should have discussed it with you first. But there's a woman here in an abusive relationship, and she needs someone to-"
"Save her?"
"Why are you yelling at me?"
"Because!" Neal started to pace, "What about your job?"
"I already called them. I told them I need to relocate, and they're looking to have me transferred to a branch around here."
"So you have it all figured out, don't you? It just fits perfectly, like fate?"
"No, but I'm needed-"
"No! Don't say that! You weren't supposed to be … This wasn't supposed to be … you don't get to do this!"
"Look, we can talk about it, okay? And if you hate it that much … it's just, Neal I feel like I'm supposed to be here, and I want to help. You taught me the value of that, of helping strangers who needed it. Remember that? Remember when we met as kids and-"
"And you came bursting into my life like this mythical … but you weren't supposed to actually be mythical! You weren't supposed to be … Emma, do you know how hard I've tried to run from – do you have any idea – I can't – I just can't -"
"Neal-?"
"I can't deal with this right now."
And then he was out the door. Emma had no clue what had just happened, but she felt an ache in her chest that was remarkably familiar and made her feel so unbelievably thirteen.
"You're awfully quiet," Belle said, as she glanced around Rumpelstiltskin's castle. She had been here, dreaming presumably, for quite a bit longer than usual without hearing him. He had said nothing, and Belle feared …
It had been a good day. She had finally ridden into town. So much had changed over the past year. She no longer felt like a prisoner. She felt happy. And a part of it was the freedom she had earned, but a part of it also had to do with this man in her dreams, this man who claimed to be a monster. So his silence concerned her.
"I am here," he finally said.
"Are you? And why haven't you said anything?"
"I … something has happened. My son wants … he believes he has found a way to rid me of this curse."
"To-?"
"To make me a man again. A way that is safe. A place we can go where I will be human."
Belle didn't know what to say.
"I promised him," Rumpelstiltskin continued after a minute or two of silence, "I promised him I would. I didn't think he would actually find a way."
"You don't want to be human again?"
"When I was a man, what was I? A coward? A peasant? A burden? I was nothing, Belle, and I was loved by no one. I was always left behind."
"Rumple, that's not … you're son. Your son loved you, before. He wouldn't want to go back if he didn't."
"It will take so much … strength, to do this for him. And I fear I haven't-"
"You have strength, and you have courage. I know, because that is what you have given me: strength, and courage, to fight for the life I want."
"And if I don't have enough-"
"Then I'll lend you some of mine. I promised you forever, Rumple. I will always be here: the shoulder that you can lean on, the strength you need to find in yourself."
"The angel on my shoulder, are you?"
"Oh, I'm no angel," Belle said with a chuckle.
"But you are. That is, you have been. What I mean is …"
The room seemed to dim around Belle, but not in a gloomy way. No, this felt warm. She felt close, as though she could feel Rumpelstiltskin standing beside her, just beyond her reach. "What do you look like?" she asked suddenly, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean … it doesn't matter to me, really. But I just wonder-"
"I doubt I look anything like you imagine. Being the Dark One doesn't make for a pretty picture. I'm all scales and … I'm very ugly Belle. You would be horrified if you saw."
"I doubt that. And I only wondered because … I was just thinking what it would be like to look into your eyes." A melody started to play. It was something old and familiar, though Belle couldn't quite place it. "Are you as far away as your voice, or are you standing here with me, in this very room?"
"I am here, Belle."
"Then dance with me."
"I-"
"There's music. I hear it. I think maybe I willed it to come. I can pretend that I can see you. Tell me where to stand."
"We'd look very silly, dancing with air."
"Who's going to see? Dance with me Rumple."
He was quiet, and she thought she would need to convince him more, but then he said, "There's a spinning wheel. Do you see it?"
A spotlight fell on the wheel.
"Yes," Belle said breathlessly, nodding her head.
"I'm just behind it."
The spotlight moved.
Belle got into position.
"I bow to you."
Belle giggled. "Then I will curtsy in turn," she said.
"Take my hand. It's just by the needlepoint. Be careful not to prick yourself." Belle smiled, putting her hand where he indicated, "Stand up straight now."
"I am," Belle said, just as the spotlight disappeared. What was left was pure darkness. She could see nothing. But she felt a hand grasp hers, and she gasped, "Rumpelstiltskin?"
"I'm here, Belle."
"I'm … I'm reaching out my other hand for-" and she felt his shoulder under her fingers. "You are real, aren't you?"
"You aren't afraid."
"Darkness is nothing to be scared of when you … when you have someone you trust to lead you. I would trust you with my life."
And then they were gliding across the floor. It was almost funny. Belle had yearned for so long to see as much of the world as she could. Now she couldn't see a thing, but she had never felt so … what was this feeling? It was a warmth in the pit of her stomach. It was a quickness in her breath. It was being unsure if her feet were still on the ground or if she was floating in the strong arms that held her close, arms she never wanted to let her go.
And then the music stopped and the room was once more bright.
Aria longed for a book to read. She was curled up on the couch; Jack would not give her the bed, and sharing it with him was not an option. In any case, it wasn't something either of them wanted.
Funny how they could agree on some things, after all.
It was hard to find a position that didn't hurt. Her body ached so, and she just wished …
She wished she were still at Granny's in Henry's room, listening to him read to her. Fairytales. It was so silly. Was that really the book she had been so desperate to find the other day? And yet … still, after everything she knew the world to be, after everything she had told Emma at the hospital, she wanted the comfort that the book had provided. She wanted to read about heroes who were brave, like she wasn't, and happy endings, like she would never have. If only she lived in another world …
But that would do nothing. In another world, she would still be the cowardly girl she had always been, too frightened to change her life, too weak and too helpless. Sometimes, she liked to pretend that there was someone there, someone who could coax her into fighting. Some hero in a book who would be the strength she needed, the light she could follow. But she was all alone.
The phone startled her. She rushed to answer. "Hello?"
"Mrs. Scathe," the mayor's voice cooed.
"Madam Mayor? To what to do I owe-?"
"Oh, none of this Madam Mayor stuff. Why we're practically family. How are you, dear? I heard what happened."
"Oh I'm … I'm fine, thank you."
"No need to put on a brave face. You must feel dreadful."
"I … I should probably get my husband. He'll want to talk to you."
"All right. But if you ever need a shoulder to cry on, just give me a ring."
Aria opened the door to their bedroom, though she really thought of it as his. It wasn't a safe place for her and, after all, she hadn't slept there in ages.
"The mayor—"
Before she could finish, he was up and he had grabbed the phone from her. "Madam Mayor. How kind of you to call."
She wanted to hit him, to choke him. But she didn't. She couldn't. She wasn't strong enough. She wasn't brave enough. She was just a girl. So, she shut the door as she left them to their conversation, and she headed back to the couch. There would be no stories tonight, just the sounds of a cruel husband with an unfaithful heart.
"What's going on?" Ava asked, rubbing her eyes.
David looked up and smiled at his daughter. Her brother wasn't far behind, coming down the stairs.
"Sorry. Did I wake you?"
Nicholas nodded. "We're supposed to be asleep."
"I know. But I couldn't sleep, and I thought I'd whip up something special for tomorrow."
"Mother's apple pie?" Ava asked, looking at the baking ingredients spread out on the counter.
"Unfortunately, your father is not the baker your mother is. I could never do that recipe justice. But I picked up a box of cake mix, and it looks pretty simple." He smiled, adding, "It's chocolate."
"Mother doesn't like us to eat sweets," Ava said.
"No, she doesn't. But, for tonight, your father says it's all right. You can even help if you like, as long as you steer clear of the dangerous parts."
"Does mother know? Is she okay with this?" Nicholas asked.
"I'll surprise her in the morning. Come on, guys. You can even lick the spoons if you like." The children still looked unsure. "Guys, come on, it's just this once. I'm sure your mother will love to wake up to a nice slice of chocolate cake prepared by her three favorite people."
Nicholas and Ava nodded at each other. "Of course we'll help you, father," Ava said, smiling, "But we won't have any tonight. If mother allows it, in the morning, we will."
"I prefer vegetables anyway," Nicholas added, and Ava nodded in agreement.
David laughed as they set to work on the cake. He loved his children dearly, but sometimes they seemed … strange.
"Mom?" Emma looked up. When had Henry returned? She wasn't sure how much time had passed since Neal had left. It felt like centuries. "Mom, why are you crying?"
Emma swiped at her face, "I wasn't. I … allergies." Henry gave her a doubtful look. "Henry, you're the kid, and I'm the parent, so you don't get to know everything, okay?" She winced, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to … it's just been a long day."
"Because of Aria?"
"Among other things."
"You can help her, Mom. I know you can." Henry came over and gave her a hug. "I believe in you."
"Thanks, kid."
"Do you think, perhaps, it's time to return to the hotel?" Rumpelstiltskin asked. He found Neal leaning against a fence on one of Storybrooke's streets.
"Where's Henry?"
"Comforting your wife, I imagine, after the harsh words you two no doubt exchanged."
Neal shook his head, "I … I know it wasn't fair. I know I need to apologize, so you don't have to tell me-"
"Good. Because you've always been a good husband-"
Neal snorted. "I've lied to her," heal said, beginning to pace, "Where I come from, who I am," he gestured to himself, "who you are … I was a fool to think I could get away with that. And now she has this destiny, and I …"
"I should think it would make things easier. She's from our world."
"That doesn't mean she'll accept it; she still grew up here. It just means we get drawn back in. You get drawn back in. And when she breaks this curse, what happens? Do we go back? Do you go back?"
"Do I become what I was again? I don't know, son. I wish I had the answers. But, truthfully, this is as much a surprise to me as it is to you. If we'd known about Emma, well, we might not have taken her in. Still, I don't regret that decision, and I don't think you really do either. She's family. As is Henry."
Neal nodded. "Let's go back. Figure this out."
"Bae, I didn't think there was a way for me to not be what I was, not without losing my life, or losing you, but you found a way. Whatever happens, we'll find a way."
"Thank you, Papa."
For the first time, Belle had not been asleep when it happened. She had been reading a rather interesting book, and she hadn't been dozing in the slightest. But then she … felt something. She heard it, but not with her ears. It wasn't exactly sound, but it was something that called out to her heart. And she knew that he needed her. She closed her eyes.
"I can't …" It was distant, a whimper, so afraid, so …
"Rumple?"
"He's falling through a portal to … to god knows where. And I can't go, Belle. I can't, I … What will become of me?"
"Be strong. You can be strong. Your son believes in you. I believe in you."
"I'm afraid."
"I'll be with you. Always. I won't leave you, Rumple. Forever, remember? Forever, wherever you go. You will carry my strength. Take it now. Take it and jump into the unknown. Jump for your son, and you will land safely."
Belle jerked awake then. Her mother was staring at her.
"Belle? What-?"
"I'm fine, Mother. I … it was just a dream."
But something felt … broken, somehow. Something had changed. Belle would find out what had soon. She would check in with Rumpelstiltskin, and …
But some part of her knew that this was the end. She would never see him again.
"Hey kid," Neal said, "You mind if I talk to your mother alone for a bit?"
Henry shook his head. "I guess I'll turn in. It's been a long day. But a good one." He turned to Emma. "Things are gonna get better, Mom, I promise."
Emma smiled, hugging her son one last time before he went off to bed.
"Emma-"
"I can't right now, Neal. Look, I know I screwed up, but I didn't deserve that. So … I'm sorry, but I need to just … I'm not ready to talk to you right now. Why don't you … bunk with your dad tonight? We'll talk in the morning, okay?"
Neal nodded, "Whatever you need." He turned to go. "I love you, Em."
"Love you, too," Emma said, nodding. Then she headed off to bed alone, trying, for the second time that day, not to cry.