Chapter Text
Belle had given thought to keeping a low profile with Cameron for a while to cement his image as an independent voice of opposition to her habitual horn locking with Regina on their way out of the frozen forest, but those intentions were quickly dashed.
They had not taken three steps onto the sidewalk near the trailhead before Belle caught two sets of eyes staring blatantly in their direction. She was still holding Cameron's hand.
But then again, the owner's of those prying eyes were also holding hands.
Deciding to make the most of the situation, Belle smiled brightly and waved. She called out, "Good morning Regina, good morning Emma!"
She could feel Cameron startle out of his thoughts and he squeezed her hand briefly as he looked up and in the direction of her wave. And he took his cue from her giving them a smile before adding, "Madame Mayor, Sheriff! The woods are lovely, I do hope you're planning on a walk this morning."
"As a matter of fact, we were. Good morning Cameron, Belle." Emma's smirk could only be described as sly. Regina, however, looked on the edge of panic, though she was clearly trying to hide it.
"Did you have a good time last night?" Belle asked as they approached one another. "I heard Cameron had quite the successful opening night."
"I'll say he did," Emma answered, "Hell of a party. Do you think he's aware that Granny has been wanting to move in on that venue for decades?"
Belle laughed out loud at the color draining from Cameron's rosy cheeks, "He does now. We probably should not tell him he'll be hosting New Year's as well."
"What?" Cameron sputtered. "I can't possibly-!"
Regina had recovered by then and reached out to tug one of Brandon's bobbing feet, "Oh yes, and Valentine's and St. Patrick's. And you thought you were going to be running a library. Once Granny's got her foot in the door, you'll never get her out."
"That woman is the most unexpected party animal you'll ever find. She and Ruby have two storage units full of party supplies just waiting for an excuse to happen." Emma added jovially.
Cameron looked sick.
"Don't worry," Regina grinned, "I won't let her burn the place to the ground on the Forth of July."
Belle knew what this was all about. The two women were gripping each other's hands as tightly as she was clenching Cameron's. No one here was really ready for the gossip column so just maybe everyone would keep their mouths shut for a couple of days. Maybe.
"Well, I hope the two of you have a lovely morning. I promised these gentlemen hot chocolate and I always honor my agreements." Belle gave them another sunny smile and waved as she stepped past them with Cameron in tow.
"I did not sign up to host a year round block party!" He sounded indignant.
"Just wait 'till the tourists arrive."
"Belle!" The poor man was desperate.
"Cameron, it's going to be ok. I promise." She darted up to peck a kiss on his cheek.