Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“And why do you want this job?” The old librarian asked.

“Because working here was my childhood dream. It’s what I’ve been working towards these past ten years. Because my family’s here.”

-

It had been a week since Belle got the new Storybrooke librarian job and moved back. The old librarian, Gladis, had shown her around, showing her the ropes, so to speak. Gladis wasn’t completely retiring, only stepping down part-time, so Belle could call on her if need be. Belle felt pretty confident about running the library on her own, however. She knew her way around it like the back of her hand. The library hadn’t changed in the, what, twenty-plus years. Belle had also gone to school for this, too, after all. And she’d been working as a librarian assistant for the past two years. So yes, she felt very prepared.

There hadn’t been any grand announcement of Belle’s arrival, of the torch of librarian being passed on. Belle had caught a glimpse of an article reading “Librarian of thirty years retires” in the Storybrooke Mirror while at Granny’s one morning. But it wasn’t made into a big thing, and Belle was more than alright with that. She didn’t want to be the center of attention after all.

Storybrooke, being a small town, almost everyone stopped her to ask about herself. Some of the residents remembered her, remembered her father’s flower shop. “Lovely,” they’d recall. It had been. Some didn’t recognize Belle until after she told them who she was; and a realization would pass over them. “My, how you’ve grown.” It had been thirteen years. Most were delighted by her presence, welcoming her back with friendly smiles.

Belle was most happy to help and was constantly running around. There were few other volunteers, most retirees. Belle was grateful for the help. She felt proud of herself after her first day without Gladis; a warmth filled her chest. If only her mother could see her now.

Belle was nervous for Tuesday, though. It was story time in the morning. Her first story time in Storybrooke. Belle recognized that, most likely, only preschoolers would attend, with parents in tow. But still, she thought about catching his eyes in the crowd of kids. She felt certain she’d recognize them immediately. Maybe he’d recognize her, too. He’d be ten now. Would he know her? Was he even in Storybrooke? Belle could only hope.

Belle had been keeping her eyes out. Any boy she spotted that fit the age had her heart racing. But they had not been him; Belle felt it in her gut. She’d find him; she was determined, after all. Determine to know her son.

The date to put an advertisement for next week’s paper was fast approaching. If Belle didn’t write something now, she feared she’d never work up the courage to. The only other way to find him was through adoption records, but her father had gone through less than legal means to ensure she could never find her child. It was still painful to think of.

So Belle sat down at the table in her small apartment after work and wrote her ad. The next morning, she posted it to send to the Storybrooke Mirror. It would be printed in next week’s issue if all went according to plan.

It was Sunday, the only day the library was closed. Belle’s only other day off was Thursday, in which Gladis would take on the librarian role. Apparently, Gladis had relied on volunteers to cover her days off. It wasn’t like much happened in the small-town library most days anyway. They weren’t like most libraries that had computers in which you could do work, or even printers. No, they only had books. The funding just wasn’t there in the small town. It was part of the reason why the library even closed on Sundays. But Belle was happy for the day off.

Belle had already had breakfast and had just poured herself some tea. She was too nervous to look at the latest addition of Storybrooke Mirror. She’d just sat down to drink her tea when she heard a knock on her door. Belle jumped, wondering who it could be at this morning’s hour. Surely, it wasn’t a salesman.

Belle had to step on her tip-toes to look out the peephole. She spotted a boy standing on the other side of the door. Belle shot back, having just barely caught a glimpse of him. Her heart raced, and she leaned against the wall, hand to her chest, drawing in her breaths. Could it be him?

The knock came on the door again. Belle jumped back to life and peered through the peephole once more. He looked the right age, brown hair. Belle couldn’t quite make out his eyes. She felt she could only be sure after looking into them. That, however, meant opening the door. Her heart was still racing. She had hoped, but she’d expected an adult to reach out to her. Not for her son to turn up suddenly at her doorstep. It was quite alarming, to say the least.

The boy shifted nervously on the other side of the door. Belle had gathered up her courage; he was just a boy, after all. She opened the door, drawing in a breath. The boy stood before her, suddenly standing straight as if gathering his own courage.

“Hello.” He spoke. “My name’s Gideon. I think I’m your son.”

“Gideon.” She uttered the name in a daze.

He’d been given the name she wanted. That meant Belle’s father had passed off the book with her child, as she made him promise to. Belle had feared he wouldn’t hold true to that promise. But the boy had received the name; it made her more certain that this was her son.

Belle looked into his eyes. They were a deep, rich hazel, not blue like hers. Only she felt sure he was her son.

“How old are you?” She asked to confirm.

“Ten. My birthday is November 7, 2006.”

It fit perfectly; there was no more doubt in her mind.

“And I’m adopted.” He continued. “I always wondered who my mother was. But father told me it was a closed adoption.” He stopped himself to stare at her, taking her in. “You didn’t put your name in the ad.”

She hadn’t wanted the whole town to know. “Belle.” She smiled at him. “Belle French. Why don’t you come inside? I just made some tea.”

“I love tea.” He smiled back.

She held the door open for him, and he came in, looking around. “I like your apartment.” He said, and she began to lead him to the table.

“Thank you. It’s not much, but it works for me.”

Belle left Gideon to sit at the table as she pulled a mug from the cupboard to pour some tea into. As she was pouring the tea, a realization hit her.

“Your parents,” It felt wrong, strange to say. “Do they know that you’re here?”

“No.” He ducked his head.

“Do your parents even know you’re out?”

He shook his head, still avoiding her eyes.

“Gideon.” Panic rose in her. “It’ll look like I kidnapped you.”

He looked up, desperation in his eyes. “I read your ad in the paper, and I just had to meet you. I knew you were my mother. The dates all fit. But I wasn’t sure if Papa would let me.”

“He’s probably worried sick, wondering where you’ve gone.” Belle didn’t want Gideon’s adoptive parents to view her negatively. She didn’t want anything prohibiting her from learning more about him, from seeing him again.

“Do you live close by?” She asked then.

“I live on the other side of town.”

She didn’t want to think of him walking all the way by himself.

“Do you have a phone?”

“I’m ten.” He replied as if that answered her question.

“No.” He drew in a breath.

“Okay. I’m going to get my phone, and we’re going to go down outside to call your father. That way, it might not look so bad.” She was drawing in her breath as she headed to her room where she’d left her phone. She paused for a moment, the reality that her son was just in the other room washing over her. She feared losing him just as she’d gotten so close and grabbed her phone quickly.

“Can I still have my tea?” Gideon asked.

“Of course.” Belle went to retrieve it, handing it over to him. “Come on now.” She coaxed him out the door, locking it behind her.

“Now, when you call your father, I want you on speakerphone. That way, I can ensure you are actually calling him and not someone else, alright?”

Gideon nodded, looking sorry.

Belle led the way down the apartment stairs, back outside. She kept looking over her shoulder at Gideon, at his mop of brown hair. He sipped his tea slowly as they walked, peeking at her every once and a while as well.

“You haven’t done anything wrong, Gideon.” Belle promised him as she unlocked her phone and handed it to him. “And I’m very happy to have finally gotten to meet you.”

She took the cup of tea from him so he could punch in the numbers.

“Before you call.” She stopped him halfway through punching in the phone number. “You’re okay, right? Your home life…? You’re happy here?”

Gideon nodded assuredly. “Papa takes good care of me. Don’t worry.”

“That is good to hear.” She smiled. “Okay, go on now.”

Gideon twisted his heel against the pavement. “But there are so many things I want to ask you.”

“Call your father first. He deserves to know where you are.” Belle spoke sternly.

The boy sighed before seeming to notice something in the distance. “That’s him.”  

Belle followed his line of sight to spot an old, classic Cadillac driving towards them. It pulled right up against the sidewalk next to them as Gideon returned her phone.

“Gideon!” A man jumped out of the car. He wasn’t anything Belle had expected. He was older than she had expected, for one, supporting himself on a cane. He wore a handsome business suit, which made her almost rather apprehensive. She could imagine him yelling at her or Gideon.

“There you are.” The man hugged Gideon to himself, but Gideon didn’t reciprocate.

The man’s eyes looked up to Belle then, only casting her a quick glance over. Belle wasn’t sure if he saw her as a threat.

“Right, so I assume you are the mother then.” He said slowly, clutching Gideon tightly to him.

“Belle French.” She offered her hand, unsure of what to do in this situation.

He made no move to take her hand. “Moe’s daughter. I had wondered.”

She ducked her eyes, not wanting to know what he must think of her.

“Papa, you’re not going to make us leave, are you?” Gideon asked.

The man’s eyes looked down at his son, searching his face.

“Have you had breakfast yet, Miss French?”

“I’m afraid so.” She replied.

“That’s okay. You know Granny’s, I presume?”

She nodded.

“How about lunch?”

“I’d be delighted.” She quickly replied.

“We’ll meet at twelve then.” He looked at his watch. “As for you.” He looked back down at Gideon. “You’re in trouble for running off without saying a single word.”

“I’m sorry.” Gideon ducked his head, twisting his foot around.

“Yes, well. I guess I understand, given the circumstances. Still. We’ll talk about this in the car.” He ushered Gideon into the car then. Gideon pushed over his father’s arm to give Belle a wave goodbye, and the man closed the door behind the boy.

“I didn’t catch your name.” She stopped the man before he could get into the car.

“Mr. Gold,” he said, and with that, they were gone.

/

Gold hadn’t been surprised to find Gideon not at the dinner table when he woke up. It was summer and, better yet, a Sunday. So, of course, he was going to let the boy sleep in. Only, as he began preparing himself breakfast, he noticed evidence of Gideon’s presence. Yet, the boy was not there, nor in the living room watching early morning cartoons. Curious, Gold headed back upstairs to notice Gideon’s door ajar. The boy still couldn’t sleep without it open, so it hadn’t alerted Gold before. He pushed it open a bit.

“Gideon?”

No response.

Light illuminated the room from an open curtain. But Gideon was not present. He’d only open the blind if he had gotten up. Gold decided to try the basement next, but Gideon wasn’t there either.

“Gideon!” Gold called into the house. Worry setting in.

He made his way back to the dining room and noticed the paper opened on the table. Gideon liked reading the comics and doing the puzzles. But the open page was neither. It was advertisements. Gold scanned them before a heading caught his eye, and his heart skipped a beat.

“Mother looking for a son.”

He snatched it up and began reading it.

“Son given up ten years ago in Storybrooke on November 7, 2006. He had brown hair, possibly blue or brown eyes. If you have any details that will help aid in my search, please contact me at…” There was an address and a phone number given.

The date. Gold remembered it well. Moe had come late at night, a babe in a basket, like out of a movie or something. He had been wrapped in a blue blanket and a book laid on top of it. Inside the cover was an inscribed note. “To Gideon, always be brave. Love, your mother.”

She was here. Back and searching for Gideon. More to the point, Gideon was gone. Clearly, Gideon had read the advertisement. He was a smart boy, clearly coming to the correct conclusion. Gold read the address off again. If Gideon were anywhere, he’d be there.

Gold felt immense relief when he saw Gideon standing on the sidewalk before the library. Gold saw the young brown-haired girl standing close to him, holding a teacup. She was so young, Gold thought before pushing it out of his mind. It’d be best not to think of her. He pulled the car up to the side of the road and jumped out to grab Gideon. Gold felt like he was shaking. He didn’t want her to take Gideon from him; he couldn’t.

But when Gideon pleaded, Gold’s heart broke. He’d known how much Gideon wanted to know about his mother. She was here; she’d been searching for her son. If Gold restricted Gideon from seeing her, he’d only run off. Or maybe she’d kidnap him. Ultimately, that was worse. So Gold suggested lunch. Simple, easy.

He was fretting as soon as they were in the car.

“Papa, are we going to drive home just to come back for lunch?” Gideon asked.

Gold didn’t even know where he was driving. He was just driving. “We’ll go back to the shop. I just…” he needed a few minutes.

“You knew her. At least you knew her name.”

“I knew her father.” Just barely. “I knew he had a daughter. I thought she was younger. Though I always knew it might be a possibility. I never questioned. Moe was looking for someone who wouldn’t ask questions, you see.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know.” Gold gripped the steering wheel tight. “Teen pregnancies are hard. A lot of families go to a lot of trouble to cover them up. To forget about them.”

“Do you think that’s what happened?”

“You’ll have to ask her.” his mother. “But Gideon…” Gold took a deep breath. “Don’t be surprised if it’s not something she wants to talk about. Remember, it was supposed to be a closed adoption.”

“I know.” He nodded his head. “Are you angry?”

“No. Angry that you ran off without telling me? Yes. But I can understand why you did. Just promise me you won’t again, okay?”

“Okay.”

Gold smiled and turned a corner. He felt calmer now and began turning to head back to the shop.

“Do you think I look like her?” Gideon asked.

 “I didn’t really get a good look.” Gold had been trying not to look at her. All he’d noted was how young she’d looked.

Gold kept busy at the shop, waiting for noon.

“Dad.” Gideon grabbed his attention. “You know I still love you, right? I’m not going to leave you.”

“I know.” Gold smiled at him, though it did little to ease his worry. “It’s just I know how much you’ve been looking forward to this moment. And… I don’t want you to have your heart broken. That’s all.”

Gideon’s head fell a bit, and Gold came over to hug him. “We can’t say why she suddenly wanted to find you after all this time. I just want to protect you.”

“I know.” He smiled up at him.

Gold looked at the time. “We should get going, though. If we want to be there in time.”

Gideon jumped up, and they headed out of the shop, Gold locking it up behind him. As they started walking, Gideon took his hand.

“There are so many questions that I want to ask her.” He said.

“Be careful to go easy on her now. Remember, she’s probably just as nervous as us. Maybe even more so.”

Gideon nodded.

Gold started to doubt his words as nerves ebbed up, and he clutched his cane tightly. Gold couldn’t imagine her being more nervous than he felt. Gold wondered why he’d chosen such a public place as they entered Granny’s.

In the back booth sat the brunette, sitting elegantly with her hands folded on the table, waiting for them. Gideon waved and pulled Gold towards her.

Gold was struck again by how young she was. Mid-twenties, he’d say if he had to guess. Which would make his assumption that it was a teen pregnancy correct. But he was also struck by how beautiful she looked. Her dark curls were nicely done, and she had light red lips and blue nail polish. Stunning blue eyes met him, a startling contrast to Gideon’s brown ones. Though the more he stared at her, the more Gold thought maybe he could see the resemblance between her and Gideon. But the more Gold stared, the more he began to fear her noticing him staring. He didn’t want to seem like a creep. There could be no way she’d appreciate him staring. So he stared at the table instead as Gideon pulled them into the other side of the booth.

“Can I get you something to drink to start you off with?” Ruby, the waiter, asked.

“Iced tea, please,” Belle spoke. It was light and a hint of the Australian accent her father had.

“Root beer,” Gideon asked politely.

“Just water for me,” Gold told her, twisting his cane between his hands. He felt nervous as ever and had no clue what to say. Thankfully, Gideon started for him.

/

“Do you live here?” Gideon asked, a hint of excitement present in his body.

His father beside him sat straight, clutching his cane. Despite the warm summer weather, he wore a jacket over a fine suit. Belle couldn’t imagine how hot he was. It did intimidate her, though. She could feel his eyes on her as if closely analyzing every interaction with his son. She really wanted that iced tea.

“Yes.” She played with her napkin. “I just moved back here. I’m the new librarian.”

“Oh!” Gideon sat up, excited by her response.

His father gave no response at all.

Their drinks had arrived, and Belle was grateful. She accepted a quick sip.

“Would you like to order?” The waitress asked.

“Papa, can I get a burger and fries, please?” Gideon turned to ask him.

“Yes, if you really want to.” Gold nodded, wearing the smallest hint of a smile.

Belle’s nerves left her feeling sick to her stomach. “Could I just have some fries?” She asked.

“Sure thing.” Ruby smiled at her. “Mr. Gold, salad again?”

“Yes, thank you.”

With that, Ruby was off.

“You lived here before then?” Gideon asked Belle.

“Yes, my family moved here from Australia when I was five. This place was the only home I remember, though. It was a great place to grow up in. I’m glad you got to grow up here as well.”

Gideon smiled before his face turned down, and he wrung his hands together. “But, why’d you leave?”

“I went off to school. In New York. I fancied living there for a time.”

Gideon thought on it, stirring his straw. Gold sipped his water.

“What did you go to school for?” Gideon asked.

“English, then library science.”

“Oh, that makes sense, with you being the librarian. How long were you in school for?”

“Eight years. I lived in Boston all that time. When I was done school, I worked in the archives for a few years. Then, I got a job as a librarian assistant. But I always knew I wanted to come back here. I always wanted to be the Storybrooke librarian, you see. So, I always kept my eye out for a job posting here. And when Gladis decided to retire, well… everything worked out.”

Gideon nodded.

Ruby had returned with their food, and they thanked her. Belle took a fry to nibble on, and so did Gideon.

“When you came back, was it just for the job, or did you also want to find me?” The question was slow and soft. Belle could hear Gideon’s apprehension. Gold was glaring daggers at her, warning her if she said the wrong thing, she’d break his heart.

“I always wanted to try and find you back one day. For a long time, I wasn’t ready to do that. But yes. I came here in hopes of finding you, too.” She took a breath. “I want to know about you. You must be in grade five now, correct?”

“I’m going into grade six in September,” Gideon told her.

“Do you have a favourite subject in school?” She asked next.

He thought. “I like science.”

Belle smiled.

“I really like books too, though. Papa and I always go to the library. We were going to say hello to you. Well, we didn’t know it was you. But we knew there was a new librarian. Only, Papa’s been busy at the shop.”

“The shop?” She raised her head to look at Gold. He’d been picking at his salad.

“I own an antiques and pawn shop. It’s not far from the library.” He spoke up.

“Oh, that’s so cool. I love antiques.”

“You should come to see Papa’s shop. It’s so cool.” Gideon enthused.

“All in good time, Gideon.” Gold calmed him.

Belle still feared Gold would never let her see Gideon again.

“What about friends?” Belle asked next.

Gideon went on a whole long rant then, only stopping to take some bites of his burger. Afterward, Belle asked how his summer was going. Which, apparently, was quite nice. Despite feeling nervous under the gaze of Gold, she felt like things were going rather well and was just happy to be getting to know her son.

Her son.

It hit her like a ton of bricks. After all this time, her child was sitting there just across the table, mayonnaise dripping from his chin.

Her son.

What little quirks did he have that originated from her genes, if any? She couldn’t think of all she’d lost. Otherwise, she’d start crying, and this really wasn’t the place to start crying.

“What’s New York like? I’ve never been.” Gideon asked then.

“Very busy. Very expensive. I didn’t like it much to tell the truth.” She’d always been a small-town girl, through and through.

She tried to think of other questions. Important things. But everything was leaving her mind. She just wanted to watch Gideon, to study his face. The brown eyes almost haunted her. For a moment, she saw his smirk, the one she’d tried so hard to forget: Grant, the slimy bastard. Belle hoped there was no part of him in Gideon, even if he had lent some genes.

“What was your favourite part of New York?” Gideon asked.

“Definitely the library.”

“What’s your favourite book?”

“Oh, now that is hard.” She smiled. “Hard to pick just one. Of course, I do love Jane Austen, Shakespeare, Jules Vern.” She’d start rambling if she got started on the topic of books. “A librarian can never pick just one.”

Gideon smiled at that.

“What about my book?” He asked it more carefully, looking over at his father for a quick glance. “Her Handsome Hero?”

Belle smiled. “My mother used to read me that one all the time, when I was little. It was my favourite. I wanted to be brave like the hero of the book, Gideon. I always said if I had a boy, that’s what I’d name him. That’s why I wanted you to have the book. So you could have some piece of me.”

“I really like it,” Gideon assured her. “I liked that my name was the same as the hero’s. It made me feel like a hero.”

“That was exactly what I hoped.”

He smiled, and she thought she caught a glimpse of a smile on Gold’s lips.

“But why…” Gideon fidgeted awkwardly.

Belle knew what he wanted to ask as he looked over at his father.

“It’s alright. You can ask me.” She assured him.

“It’s just that father said it was a closed adoption, meaning you didn’t want me to contact you when I got older. But you reached out to find me.”

“Things were complicated when I got pregnant with you. It wasn’t something I planned. I was already in school. My father pressured me into certain decisions.” She wrung her hands, being careful with her words. Gideon didn’t need to know everything after all. “I…” she stopped herself. “I never intended it to be a closed adoption. But that is what happened.”

Gideon seemed confused, and Belle couldn’t blame him.

“What about my birth father?” He asked then.

She wasn’t sure what question she’d been fearing more. The “why’d you give me up?” or “who’s my father.”

“He was just some guy. We were both young. He didn’t want to be involved.”

Gideon nodded. “Do you have a boyfriend now?”

Belle almost laughed; she had not been expecting that question. Not from her own child.

“No.” She shook her head. “After… I stayed away from any sort of entanglements. Then work and life got busy. So no.” She chuckled, shaking her head. “What about you?” She turned it around.

He blushed bright red, pulling against the seat.

“Eww, no.” He spat his tongue out. “I’m ten.”

Belle chuckled. “Oh well, I only felt it was fair to ask you, seeing as how you asked me.”

Gideon readjusted in his seat, finishing off his fries.

“So you’re going to be staying here in Storybrooke?” Gideon asked.

“Yes. I have a job here, after all.” She dared to look towards Gold, to try and read his face to tell how he felt about all this. She never really meant to intrude. This just had always been her dream.

“So we could see each other more.” Gideon’s voice was hopeful.

“Only if your father’s okay with it, of course.” She nodded towards Gold.

“Yes.” He shuffled. “Well, I know Gideon would like that. And we do frequent the library fairly frequently. So, I suppose we will be running into you from time to time.”

She nodded slowly, still unsure how he felt about this whole situation. As far as he’d been concerned, it was supposed to be a closed adoption. She was supposed to never be involved in their lives.

Gideon looked happy, though. “I feel like I forgot a lot of questions I wanted to ask. I should write them down next time.”

Belle smiled at him, and Gold waved Ruby down for the check. It appeared their lunch was drawing to an end.

“I’d be delighted to answer any more of your questions,” Belle assured Gideon. “And I’m sure I will also think of more to ask you.”

Ruby had returned with the bill. “Together or separate?” She asked.

“Together.” Gold said.

“No, I can pay for myself.” Belle quickly told him.

Gold was already pulling out some money. “I insist.” He said.

Belle wasn’t sure how she felt about it. She wasn’t some charity case. But at the same time, it felt like a reassurance, him paying. As if he was saying he was okay with her.

“Thank you. Next time, it can be on me.” She offered.

“Can we go out again?” Gideon asked, hopeful.

“Yes, we can talk about it.” Gold nodded, paying hastily. “Now, I’m afraid we must get going, Miss French. But it was lovely making your acquaintance.” He stood up and was now offering his hand.

“Yes.” She felt she’d barely made his acquaintance at all. But she shook his hand still; it all felt very formal, like she’d just had an interview for a job.

“We’ll see you again. Now come, Gideon. Say your goodbyes.”

Gideon hovered, maybe unsure of how to say goodbye. “It was really nice meeting you and talking to you. I can’t wait to see you again.”

“Me neither.”

/

“Do you like her?” Gideon asked on the drive home.

Gold had been lying; he didn’t have work to get to. It was only the whole affair had become too much. Gold remembered everything about the night Gideon came into his life like it was yesterday. He remembered Moe’s urgency and secrecy. Had it all been her father pushing Belle to give up her child? She said she hadn’t wanted it to be a closed adoption. She was living here now to be close to and learn about him. The fear of losing Gideon trickled back.

“We barely know her,” Gold replied.

“But I can see her again, right?”

“Yes.” It’d hurt to allow Gideon to see her again.

“I could visit her at the library.”

“If you’d like. But Gideon, I don’t want you seeing her without me. At least, not now, understand?”

Gideon nodded.

“And remember, she works at the library. So we can’t bother her too much there. Alright?”

“Then we’ll have to plan something else,” Gideon replied. “We could go on a walk along the pier.”

“Yes, well, we’ll see.”

At home, Gideon immediately pulled the blue book out of his keepsakes.

“Is she what you imagined?” Gold asked slowly.

“I don’t know.”

Afterward, Gideon went running around. “She’d want to see baby photos of me, right?”

When Gideon pulled out the album, Gold’s heart stopped. Those were his treasures. He didn’t want anyone else touching them or seeing them. Gideon was flipping through, smiling. He was right, though. Of course, she’d want to see pictures of his childhood.

“Why don’t you pick just a few?” Gold suggested. It was a compromise on his part. “And maybe she’d like to see some of your schoolwork, too.”

Gideon was radiating excitement. Gold was left unsure of what to do. He couldn’t say how much Miss French wanted to squirm her way into their life, but he wasn’t sure he wanted it. It was just supposed to be him and Gideon. He had felt assured that he was all Gideon had. That was why he kept him, after all. But she had returned, and he learned that maybe he’d been wrong in his assumptions. It sent confusion through him. Gold would have to talk to Belle without Gideon, which worsened his nerves. He wasn’t good with people, let alone strangers. A stranger who was the mother of his child was even worse.

Chapter Text

Belle was busy at the library. Her emotions had been everywhere since yesterday after meeting her son. That’s why she was throwing herself into her work today.

A few people stopped her, asking where to find a certain book they were looking for. Belle was grateful to walk them to it. She’d been sitting at the front desk checking books out for the past half hour when they came in, Gideon and his father. Gideon smiled wide and waved. Belle’s smile felt slower, more one of shock and surprise. Still, the boy raced over.

“Belle, I have something to show you.” He produced a small baggy. “It’s some of my baby photos and some of my schoolwork. Papa says you’re probably busy now, so you can look at them later and give them back another day.”

“Oh, well, thank you.” She turned the baggy over, nervous about opening it. “I have been rather busy today. Are you looking for any book in particular?”

Gideon shook his head.

“Gideon.” His father stepped closer. He wore another suit today, looking handsome and intimidating as ever. “Why don’t you go off and find yourself some books? I’d like to speak with Miss French alone.”

“Oh,” Gideon’s voice sank, and he glanced nervously between them.

Belle felt nervous as well, and Gideon went off into the library.

“I promise I won’t take too much of your time, Miss French.” Gold came up to her desk.

Belle wondered why he was so formal as he clutched his cane tightly, almost looking nervous. He seemed so imposing, she felt certain he couldn’t be nervous.

“I’d like to talk with you privately before you spend more time with my son.”

There it was. The way he’d said, “my son,” Belle was sure he was going to tell her to stay away. That this was meant to be a closed adoption.

“I understand.” She nodded solemnly. “The library closes at six daily. Otherwise, I’m off on Thursdays and Sundays.”

Gold thought. “Tonight after the library closes then. You could meet me at my shop.” He rattled off the address, and Belle suddenly realized she’d have to write it down. When she’d gotten a pen and paper, she had to ask him to repeat it.

“Yes, I’ll be there.” She assured him once she’d gotten the address down.

“Very well.” he nodded and went off to find Gideon.

Belle drew in her breath, calming her heart. She stayed at the desk, unsure if she should talk to Gideon. However, she was at work and had other duties to attend to.

Gideon and his father soon returned with a handful of books, and Belle smiled at them as she began checking the books out.

“I was thinking maybe you’d like to walk along the pier with us one evening,” Gideon suggested.

“Oh, that’d be lovely.” She smiled. “We’ll have to see. I have been rather busy settling in here.” It was a lie, but she wanted to be able to give herself an out if Gold forbade her from seeing Gideon anymore.

Gideon’s face fell a bit, and Belle felt terribly sorry. “Thank you for giving me some of your things to look at. I’ll cherish them.”

A smile was brought back to his lips as she handed him his books.

“Thank you, Miss French.” Gold bowed his head and put a hand on Gideon’s back, leading him out the door.

-

Belle felt as nervous as ever. She soothed out her skirt as the keys jingled in her hand. With her nerves, Belle had more trouble locking the library up that night. After it was locked up, she clutched her purse strap tightly and headed down the street, heels clicking. She’d almost wished he’d chosen a better place where they could talk, like Granny’s. Of course, it made sense that he didn’t choose there, where people could overhear. Only, going to a strange location, where he’d be comfortable and she wouldn’t, put her even more on edge.

 She soon reached the address, noticing the sign above the shop, “Mr. Gold’s Pawnbroker & Antiquities Dealer.”

She peered into the windows, finding a display of beautiful antiques. The sign still said open, and she opened the door. A small bell rang overhead.

“Ah, Miss French.” Gold stood on the other side of the till, barely noting her. “Right on time. Flip the sign over, could you?”

She was startled but turned to flip the small sign around so it read “closed.” When she had, she turned around to take in the shop. It was beautiful indeed, filled to the brim with antiques. Items even hung from the roof.

“Lovely place you have here.” She said, approaching the counter. Gold appeared to be counting the money.

“Thank you.” He’d finished counting the money and locked the till up. “Now, if you wouldn’t mind following me into the back room. I have some seats for us.”

She felt even more nervous as he led her past the counter and through a curtain. The back room was just as messy as the front. There was a small work desk. Cabinets upon cabinets. Antiques littered around. A small table with two chairs had been cleared off. Belle sat down, noticing, oddly, that a small ottoman was built into the wall.

“Would you like some tea? I’m afraid I only have an electric kettle here.” Gold’s voice brought her eyes back to him.

“Oh yes, that’d be lovely. Thank you.”

He moved around, turning an electric kettle on.

“Did you have time to look at Gideon’s pictures?” He asked slowly.

“No.” She wrung her hands.

“That’s alright.”

The kettle whistled, and he poured it into fine chinaware mugs from a cabinet before grabbing tea bags. He then carried her cup over. It appeared he was only able to carry one cup at a time with his cane. He went back to grab his own. Belle watched him balance his weight onto his cane before looking back up at his face. He pushed his hair back as he came to sit across from her, not meeting her eyes as he blew at the tea.

Now that she really looked at him, she realized he most likely wasn’t as old as she initially thought. Only, the cane made him appear older than he was. He was rather handsome, with dark, medium-length hair and dark eyes. But she wouldn’t think about that.

“You never told me your name.” She started.

“You can just call me Mr. Gold.”

So, formalities it would be then.

He put his cup down. “Miss French. I’d always presumed Gideon’s mother was most likely very young. I thought that was why there was more urgency. I vaguely knew Moe had a daughter. Only, I thought you younger.” He shifted. “During our lunch, it seemed you implied that your father forced you to give up your child. I hope I’m not being presumptuous in that assumption.”

“No.” Belle’s head ducked down, and she wrapped her hands around the warm cup.

Gold only hummed in response.

“I understand that you believed this was a closed adoption. I understand that you never thought you’d see of me or hear from me.”

“No, I hadn’t.”

“And I understand…” She drew in her breath. It’d hurt, but she would understand. “If you don’t want me anywhere near Gideon.”

There was a long moment of silence. It was probably only a few seconds, but Belle felt like it was an eternity.

“I want what’s best for Gideon,” Gold replied slowly. “He’s always wanted to know his birth parents. I promised myself I’d never stop him from that pursuit. I did warn him what a closed adoption meant, for I didn’t want his heart to be broken.”

Belle understood.

“It was never a legally closed adoption, however.” He twisted his hand around his mug.

“It wasn’t?” Belle was shocked.

Gold sat up a little straighter. “I was never meant to adopt Gideon, Miss French.”

She stared at him, confused.

“Your father recruited me as a middleman of sorts. He impressed on me an urgency that I kept everything hush-hush, as it were. I was supposed to bring the baby to an orphanage in Boston.”

“He meant to trick me.” She suddenly realized. “I came home to have the baby, so I always imagined that Gideon was here, or at least adopted here. I wouldn’t have looked for him in New York.” She shook her head. “What changed?”

Gold picked at the table, still not meeting her eyes. “I don’t know. It all seemed simple in my head. But then I’d been handed this baby and…” he trailed off.

“You didn’t want to give him up.”

“I know a bit about what it’s like to grow up in the foster system. It’s not nice, to say the least.”

She felt intrigued and wanted to know more but held her tongue.

“Your father was already planning on moving away, so he’d never find out.”

“So you only knew what my father told you. That the mother couldn’t care for the child and didn’t want to be involved.”

“Exactly. But now I know that wasn’t the case.”

She nodded slowly.

“I will let you continue to see Gideon. Clearly, you want to know more about him so I will grant you that. But Miss French,” His eyes came to hers, looking fierce, a threat in them. “I will not have you coming into his life and leaving again. Understood? He is just a boy, and that sort of thing will break his heart.”

“No, of course not.” Belle shook her head vigorously. “I would never. I want to know more about him.” She ducked her head, wringing her hands. “I’d like to be involved in his life, that is, if you’d let me.”

When she looked up, she found Gold nodding slowly.

She smiled and picked up her tea to take a sip.

“For the time being, however,” Gold began. “I don’t want you alone with Gideon. I hope you understand.”

“I understand.” She nodded slowly.

He seemed content and went to take a sip of his tea.

“I do have a question, though.” Belle began to ask.

He looked at her, telling her to go ahead.

“It’s just you and Gideon, correct? No wife or partner?”

“No.” Gold shook his head. “Just me and Gideon.”

Belle nodded.

“I think that’s everything, Miss French. I do believe Gideon suggested a walk down the pier. You said you are off on Thursdays.”

“Yes.”

“Should this Thursday work for you then?”

“Oh yes.” She felt excitement again.

“Good. We could come and meet you at your apartment. Say ten?”

It seemed rather early, but she nodded. Gold seemed satisfied.

“Where is Gideon?” She asked then.

“He is playing with his friend across the street.”

She was glad to hear he had friends.

“Mr. Gold.” She straightened a little. “I must thank you for looking after Gideon for me. I can tell that you both love each other very much. It makes me very happy to know he had someone to love and care for him.”

“Yes, well, he’s a wonderful boy.”

Belle caught the soft brown of Gold’s eyes and smiled to herself.

“You could have passed him off as your own. But you told him he was adopted; why?”

“He deserved to know.” He replied simply. “And I hardly think I could pass him off as mine.”

“I think you look enough alike. Brown hair. Brown eyes, unlike me.”

“Yes, but then who would I explain is the mother?”

She supposed that was true.

“I couldn’t lie to him.” Gold shook his head.

Belle took the last sip of her tea. The cup was tiny, and she almost wished for more. Only, Belle wouldn’t know what else they could talk about. But yet, she did almost want to know more about Gold.

“I should get going then. Till Thursday.” She rose, smoothing out her skirt. “Thank you for the tea.”

Gold rose slowly as well. “Would you like me to walk you back?”

That alarmed Belle. It seemed such a gentlemanly offer, and she was touched by it. “Oh no. It’s not a far walk at all. My apartment’s right next to the library.” She felt flush by his offer, and she prayed he wouldn’t notice.

“Very well, I’ll see you on Thursday then.”

“Yes.”

Gold led her back out to the front of the shop, and with one more goodbye, she was off, back to her apartment. As she walked back, her heart began to beat rapidly over everything that had happened. She pressed her hand against her chest. She would be alright, she assured herself. She’d calmed her heart by the time she was back in her apartment. She was rather hungry and started thinking about what to make for dinner.

Once dinner was prepared, Belle sat down and slowly opened the baggy Gideon left her. She was sure not to get any of the contents dirty as she ate her dinner and looked over them.

Most were photographs. First, a photo of a baby. Gideon, a tiny thing, all snuggled up in a blue blanket. He was laid in a crib with a few stuffed animals around. The next few, he looked to be a toddler. One was a professional photo; Gideon posed beside a teddy bear. Another was of him lying on his stomach, smiling wide. The next photo was of him sitting in a highchair with food covering his face.

In the photos, Gideon got older. One was of him sliding down a slide and another was of him at a pool. Next appeared to be his kindergarten photo, for he wore a uniform. Another photo was one of a crowd of kids on a stage. Belle had to search to find Gideon. Another photo was of Gideon playing soccer. Next, Gideon was showing his hands covered in paint. Another, Gideon was opening a present by a Christmas tree. Another was a birthday party surrounded by friends. More school photos from every year followed. A few appeared to be one Gideon took of the town. One was of Ruby holding a tray and smiling. Another was of Gold fixing a clock in his shop. Another was a picture of Gideon and Gold posing for a professional photo. It looked recent.

Belle’s heart broke as she pulled out each photo. Every moment was one she’d missed. And these were only snapshots of Gideon’s life. His many tantrums and bad days hadn’t been caught on camera. How many of those fleeting moments, sitting at a table perhaps, smiling at each other, weren’t present?

Belle pulled out the schoolwork, some paintings and drawings. They weren’t particularly good—clearly, the work of a child. Belle pulled out a piece of paper, an assignment perhaps. Only, there didn’t seem to be a grade. Gideon’s writing was typical of a young child. But Belle managed in being able to read it.

“When I grow up, I want to be like my dad. My dad works in a shop with old things. It’s really cool. I like my dad because he makes me food and looks after me. Sometimes, I wish I had a mom as well. But Dad says he can be a mom as well. I think that’s funny. Dad says my mom is out there. I think I’d like to find her one day. I think she’d be pretty and really nice. She could cook for me, and I could show her my dad’s shop. We’d be happy.”

Belle smiled, tears in her eyes.

-

Belle felt nervous about seeing Gideon again. She’d picked out a nice summer dress and some flats for walking, slinging her purse over her shoulder. Belle had done her hair up, expecting warm weather. Ready, she made her way outside to meet Gold and Gideon. When she stepped outside, she found them already walking toward her. When Gideon spotted her, he ran ahead.

“Hello.” She smiled. “Oh, I have to give you your keepsakes back.” She handed him the baggy back. “Thank you for letting me look at them.”

“We have lots more at home. But Papa said to pick a few.”

Belle wanted to see more but wouldn’t ask that. She was still gaining their trust. Well, Gold’s trust.

“I do believe the pier was this way. Unless it moved while I was gone.” She gestured down the street.

Gideon giggled at her joke.

“Why don’t you lead the way, Gideon.” Gold suggested.

“Has a lot changed since you were gone?” Gideon asked. “In the town, I mean.”

“Oh, not really. Barely anything, actually. But I was quite happy to find almost nothing had changed. It was nice coming back to a place I recognized. Still feels like home.”

“Where did you used to live when you lived here?”

“Just by the school. My mother was a schoolteacher, and my father owned a flower shop in town. Now that I think of it, it’s not far from your father’s shop.”

“Do you have any siblings?”

“No, I was an only child.”

“Where do your parents live now?”

“My father moved to Boston after,” she stopped herself. “A few years after I moved to go to school there. He still lives there. My mother, unfortunately, passed away when I was a young teen.”

“I’m sorry.” Gideon gave her a sympathetic look.

“It was very hard on my father and me. We both loved her very dearly.”

“Did you have friends here? Do they still live here?”

“Most people from my grade moved away. I recognize people, but they’ve grown up a lot. Like Ruby and Ashley, the daycare worker.”

It was strange to think of how they’d all had such different paths. Belle had seen Ashely come into the library the other day. She was married, in love, and with a child. Ruby, meanwhile, was still working at her grandmother’s restaurant. Hadn’t she wanted to travel the world? Belle, meanwhile, had eight years of school under her belt. A master’s degree as well.

“How old were you when you left?” Gideon asked next.

“Eighteen. I was fresh out of high school and very proud of myself for getting accepted into Boston University. I first went into the school to study English before changing it to be more focused on library studies.” She failed to explain how she’d gotten pregnant with him between changing majors.

“Did you have lots of friends in school?” Gideon asked.

Belle smiled. “A few, I roomed with some my last years. But as I said, Boston never felt like my home.”

The water came into view, and Belle drew in her breath to breathe in the smell of it.

“There’s a historical ship. Want to come see?” Gideon asked.

“That sounds very cool.”

Gideon began to lead the way to the pier. It was still a good walk, but soon, a pirate-looking ship appeared in Belle’s eyesight. It looked very out of place among the fishing boats.

“If the captain’s here, he’ll let us on.” Gideon suddenly ran ahead.

“Gideon!” Gold called after him. Belle only smiled, amused. She looked over at Gold. He hadn’t spoken their whole walk. He still wore a suit, looking like a proper businessman. She was beginning to wonder if he always wore a suit. Seeing how he worked in an antiques shop, it didn’t make much sense. It’d make much more sense if he worked in a business office.

/

“Aren’t you hot?”

Gold jumped at Belle’s question. He hadn’t expected her to talk to him. Sunday at the shop had been enough for him.

“He’s not here.” Gideon had thankfully returned.

“Oh, that’s alright. We can try another day.” Gold told him, almost relieved. He didn’t particularly like the captain of the old ship. That man had not been pleasant when Gideon and he happened upon the ship the first time. It took all Gold’s self-control not to punch him.

“Should we walk to the park? Maybe Miss French would like to feed the ducks.” Gold suggested. It was another thing Gideon liked to do with him, Gold wasn’t sure what else to suggest.

“Oh, that does sound lovely.” Belle’s voice came sweet, and she had a warm smile on her face.

Gideon began leading the way. The park wasn’t far, and they quickly reached the bird feed box. Gideon opened it and offered some to Belle and then to Gold.

“Is that castle playground still near here?” Belle asked when they walked to the water’s edge, the ducks keen to be fed.

“That’s my favourite playground,” Gideon told her.

“The mayor had it updated five years ago,” Gold informed Belle.

“So it’d be different from how I remember it.”

Gold nodded. The castle playground had been very old when Gold started taking Gideon there. He was happy to hear it was being updated to modern safety guidelines. However, Gideon wasn’t too happy until the new playground was built, and he fell in love again.

“Can you cook?” Gideon asked Belle.

“I’m more of a baker. But I can cook well enough, I suppose.”

“I’ve been helping Papa make dinners recently. It’s really fun. I think I’d like to be a chef when I grow up.”

Gold mirrored Belle’s smile.

“We could have you over for dinner one night.” Gideon looked at Gold so hopeful that Gold’s heart skipped a beat.

No, he wasn’t letting her into his house. Gold was allowing Belle to know Gideon, but she certainly wouldn’t be involved in their lives. That felt too much; there had to be boundaries to this sort of thing.

“We’ll have to see.” Gold muttered out, clutching his cane. Gideon pouted, but he wouldn’t cave to that.

Belle coaxed Gideon back to feeding the ducks, and Gold felt relieved. He watched them for a bit, standing beside each other. He tried to assess if their mannerisms were at all similar. They were so ever keen to know about each other. Gold felt they could spend all day here, talking. He, however, could only stand so long on his leg. And the more he saw them staring at each other with such admiration, the more it began to worry him. Gold looked at his watch, deciding to give them twenty more minutes.

“Gideon,” he spoke sharply when the twenty minutes were up. “I think it’s time we let Miss French go about her day.”

Gideon was about to protest, but Belle spoke up. “We’ll see each other another day. I’m sure you have lots to get to.”

“Not really,” Gideon replied, and Gold really wished he hadn’t said that.

“Come on.” Gold was quick to lead them out of the park.

Gold wasn’t sure he could work with this, but for Gideon, he’d try. Soon, they were back at Belle’s apartment building. Gideon looked pleadingly at Gold.

“Miss French, would you care for another outing on your other day off?” Gold asked for Gideon.

“Oh yes. I can do Sunday. Same time?”

Gold nodded.

“We could go to the castle playground, maybe.” Belle smiled at Gideon. “I’d like to see how it has changed.”

Chapter Text

It was the third time Belle was going out with Gold and Gideon. She looked forward to the small walks, to learn about her son. Gold barely talked, and Belle sensed that perhaps he didn’t like her. Belle was trying her best to stay on his good side so that she could keep seeing Gideon. Gideon wanted to see more of her and invite her over. But Belle knew that whatever Gold said was what they’d have to do. He was, after all, Gideon’s legal guardian.

Belle wished Gold would talk more, or at least that she could be on his good side. She wanted them to be friends at least and hated feeling awkward in his presence. Belle wanted to feel comfortable around him and Gideon. She didn’t know what sort of things to say to Gold and feared anything she might say might make him dislike her. And besides, the times he let her see Gideon were fleeting, and she wouldn’t waste them.

Otherwise, everything felt quite rather like it was falling into place for Belle. She felt comfortable in her apartment and at the library. She felt at peace for having found her son. She was chipper and cheerful as ever at work.

One day, a man around her age started showing up. He’d ask if she could help him find a certain book, and she was glad to help. It was only when he asked for her recommendation with a sly smile on his face that she became aware of his intentions. His smile reminded her too much of Grant.

One night, Belle was locking up the library to return to her apartment when she heard his voice behind her.

“Do you need some help there?”

“Oh?” She jumped a bit. “No, thank you.” She finished turning the lock.

“Keith, remember?”

She did; she was doing her best to ignore him, though. “Right,” she smiled anyway, clutching her purse tightly and the keys in the other.

“I couldn’t help but notice that you don’t seem to have a male friend of sorts.”

There was something slimy in the way he said it.

“No. But I don’t see how that concerns you.”

“Oh well.” He moved into her space, trapping her against the wall. She didn’t feel safe at all and began feeling a bit lightheaded as her heart picked up.

“I thought it was obvious.” His slimy smile was back. Belle really wanted him to leave.

“I thought you might like to go out on a date.”

“I’m sorry, Keith.” She tried to be as gentle as possible. “But I’m not really interested in going out with anyone right now.” Gathering her courage, she pushed right past him, her heart feeling like it might race out of her chest.

“Hey, wait!” His hand was on her arm.

“Let go of me!” She wrenched it away.

“Can you just stop for a minute?” The man was laughing. Belle wanted to run for her apartment but feared him following her.

Kieth went to reach for her again.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Another voice startled her, and Belle found Mr. Gold standing quite threateningly beside her.

“Mr. Gold!” Kieth sounded terrified. “This doesn’t concern you.” He looked angry now.

“I don’t think Miss French appreciates your advances.” Gold hissed, starting towards Keith.

“Alright, alright.” Keith looked scared again. His eyes flickered to Belle. “Whatever.” Then he was off.

Belle finally drew in her breath, supporting herself against the library wall. Gold had turned around; his demeanour changed to one of full concern.

“Are you alright, Miss French?”

“Thank you, Mr. Gold.” Her head didn’t feel very good.

“Is there anything I can do for you?”

She felt incredibly lightheaded and reached out for him.

“Miss French?”

/

“Why can’t we have her over papa?” Gideon pleaded.

“I’m just not comfortable with that, Gideon.”

“But you like her, right?”

“I can’t say, really.”

“Maybe if you talked with her.”

Gold felt almost embarrassed.

“She’s really nice, papa.”

“Yes, she does seem nice.”

Gideon sighed, realizing he couldn’t convince his father anymore.

“You can see her when we go on walks.” Gold tried to bring Gideon’s spark back.

“Alright.” Gideon only sighed.

“Now, I have a shipment at the shop late at night. So you’ll be home by yourself maybe till eight. No turning on the stove without me present. Remember?”

“Yes, Dad.” Gideon rolled his eyes.

“And don’t roll your eyes at me.” Gold playfully ruffled Gideon’s hair, who began giggling.

“But you will try Papa. Try talking to Belle.”

“Fine.” Gold sighed. “I’ll try.”

Gold didn’t have the slightest idea what he’d discuss with a woman, most likely ten years his junior. He didn’t even particularly know how to talk to people in general. It didn’t make it any easier how beautiful she was—something Gold was finding very hard to ignore.

The shipment he’d been expecting came early, and Gold was about to go home. Only, Gideon’s plea had worked its way into his mind. For no apparent reason, he began to wander to the library. Maybe he thought it might still be open and could pretend to lend a book, to share pleasantries with Miss French. But as he walked up, he found Miss French standing outside the library talking with some man. It seemed she’d just closed the library. Gold wasn’t sure he knew who the other man was, but he didn’t like how he was cornering Belle against the wall, trapping her by sorts.

Suddenly, Belle pushed past him, and the man grabbed her arm tightly. Belle pulled back quickly. Gold felt the man was harassing her and almost began to run over. With success, he scared the man off and turned his head to Belle with concern. She looked rattled and not well at all. Suddenly, she was reaching for him, and the next thing Gold knew, he was catching her in his arms as she fainted.

“Miss French, Belle!” He urged, panic rising in him. She was surprisingly heavy in his arms, and he fought to keep her upright.

She was stirring again, thankfully.

“Mr. Gold.” She muttered, her eyes fluttering open.

“Are you alright, Miss French? You fainted.” He helped her stand back up on her feet, still supporting her.

“My head’s not feeling very well.” She rubbed her temple.

“Let me take you to the hospital.”

“Oh, no, Mr. Gold. I just fainted. I’ll be fine once I get some food in me.”

“Are you sure?” He held her by the elbow for support, trying to assess whether she seemed alright.

“Yes, I’m fine.” She smiled at him, but he wasn’t particularly assured.

“At least let me walk you back to your apartment.”

“Oh, that’d be kind of you.”

Gold still held her arm. He found himself scared that if he let go, she might faint again and hit her head. Anger was still boiling up in him at the man and his action, which most certainly caused Miss French to faint. But Gold focused on supporting her instead.

Belle opened the front door to her apartment building and punched in her code before they passed through the second door.

“It’s the second floor.” Belle pointed to a great flight of stairs. Gold’s leg would surely hate him.

He continued to support Belle by the arm up the stairs. It was particularly tricky as he had to support himself on his cane. But they made it to her floor and room, and she opened the door, letting them both in. Gold was surprised by how tiny it was.

“Thank you, Mr. Gold,” Belle spoke, bringing his attention back to her.

He could tell she expected him to leave. “Could I make you something? Get you some food?” He still didn’t want to leave her, fearing her fainting again.

“No, Mr. Gold. It’s fine. Honestly. I’m fine.”

“That man just accosted you!” His anger had boiled over now.

“I’d rather not think about it if it’s alright.”

“I’ll file a report to the police.”

“Mr. Gold, that really isn’t needed.”

“I think it is, Miss French.” He gripped his cane tightly.

“Thank you.” She smiled at him, and he felt she might be alright.

“Are you sure there’s nothing else I can help you with?”

“Shouldn’t you be with Gideon?” She asked instead.

“He’s at home. He doesn’t expect me back till eight.” Gold looked at his watch. It was just past six. He looked back at her, remembering Gideon’s plea. “There was something I wished to discuss with you, Miss French, however.”

Belle nodded and moved to close the door behind him.

“Do you want some tea?” She asked.

“Why don’t I make you tea?”

“If you insist.”

She led him to the tiny kitchen, and Gold felt happy as she sat down, pulling out a box of cookies to nibble at one. She already had a kettle half filled on the stove, and Gold turned the burner on.

“Mugs and tea are in the cupboard just above you.” She told him, and he opened the cupboard.

He hated using mugs. Tea belonged in fine chinaware. But this would have to do.

“What did you want to discuss?” Belle asked.

“Right.” He fiddled with the mugs, preparing the tea. “As I’m sure you are aware of, Gideon wants to invite you over for dinner one night.”

“Oh. Yes.”

Gold dared to look over at her. She seemed nervous, nervous as he felt.

“Mr. Gold.” Belle started. “I’m very grateful for how much you have allowed me to see Gideon. I understand…” she seemed to struggle with her words as the kettle whistled.

“Well, Miss French. I thought you might like to come over for dinner one night. As it would so please Gideon.” He couldn’t believe he was inviting her over; it was for Gideon. They would still maintain boundaries, for sure.

“Are you sure?” She eyed him as he brought her tea over.

“Well, only if you like.” He almost hoped she’d say no. It’d be so much easier and simpler that way.

“Are you okay with me coming over for dinner?” She cocked her head, seeming to study him.

“Of course.” It was a lie, and he knew she could see right through it. He quickly turned around to grab his tea.

“Mr. Gold, I don’t mean to be rude. But I got the impression that you don’t particularly like me.”

He froze, standing over his tea. “I have a habit of doing that.” He picked the tea up and turned around to join her at her table. “It’s not that I don’t like you. It’s just…” he took a breath and wrapped his hands around his mug in front of him. “I guess I’m afraid of you taking Gideon from me.”

“I’d never.” She shook her head fiercely. “I promise you that’s not my intention. I only wish to know him more.”

“I know, Miss French. I appreciate how you’ve respected my boundaries thus far.” He continued to wrap his hands around the mug nervously. “This whole thing has been a lot for me. As you’ve said, I never expected Gideon’s mother to turn up.”

“I understand. And I am ever so grateful that you even have given me a chance to know him.”

Gold hummed, offering her a slight smile.

“I would like to come over for dinner, but only if you are truly okay with it.”

“Yes, Gideon would like it.”

“But what about you?” She picked up her tea, her eyes searching his. He felt quite like he was being interrogated.

“I’m not exactly a people person, Miss French. But I do aim to make Gideon happy.”

Belle nodded, understanding. She sipped her tea, and Gold dared to take a sip of his own.

“How about Sunday for five?” He suggested. “Do you have a car?”

“I do.” She nodded.

“I’ll write down my address.” He searched her table, and she provided a pen and paper for him.

“Thank you.” She said when he handed it over to her.

There was an awkward pause then, and Gold thought about making to leave.

“I have one question for you.” She stopped him before he could even get up.

“Yes?”

“Don’t you ever get hot in those suits of yours?” She was smiling, and Gold felt almost put off by it.

“I suppose. But one gets used to it.”

She only smiled in response.

“Do you always wear suits then? Because I haven’t seen you in anything else.”

“I was raised to always look presentable.”

She nodded, interested.

“But I won’t bother you any longer, Miss French.” He quickly rose.

“Honestly, Mr. Gold, it’s not a bother. In fact, I quite enjoyed this.”

He couldn’t see how she could have. He walked to the door. “Miss French.” He paused before it. “I’m assured you can look after yourself. But if you ever have anyone bother you like that again. I’d like to know.”

She nodded slowly. “Good night then.”

She opened the door for him. “Good night to you, too.”

Chapter Text

Belle had felt a need to look nice around Gold, seeing as he always wore suits. A dinner at their house called for looking even nicer. All Belle had, however, were spring and summer dresses. She had two formal dresses, but they were too formal to wear to a dinner. Belle busied herself with her looks, nervous as ever about that night’s dinner. She felt she had to look her best.

She left maybe too early but also felt she needed to be on time. After conversing with Gold the other day, she was assured he didn’t hate her. It was something. There was hope yet that they could figure this whole thing out.

Belle followed the directions she’d written down until she arrived on a back road on the edge of town. The few houses were owned by the richest people of Storybrooke, all old and fancy. Finally, she reached the address, finding an old Victorian-style house before her. He was rich. That had her nerves going again. What did he think of her after seeing her tiny one-bedroom apartment?

She parked in the driveway beside his Cadillac and gathered courage before heading to the door. She knocked, and it opened quickly. Gideon on the other side.

“Belle!” He smiled wide.

“Sorry, I’m a little early.”

“That’s okay. Papa just finished cooking the meal. I think he’s nervous.” Gideon whispered the last part. “Come in.”

Belle came in and began taking off her shoes.

“I have so many things to show you.” Gideon radiated excitement.

“Miss French.” Gold had appeared wearing an apron around his dress shirt. It almost felt casual for him.

He stood still in the doorway, looking almost in awe of her. “You look…” he stared. “You look.” He seemed flustered and embarrassed now. “You look very nice.”

Belle blushed; the way he’d been looking at her felt more than just a simple compliment, but she wasn’t going to look deeper into that. She wasn’t going to go there.

 “Thank you.” She replied, hoping he wouldn’t notice her blush.

“You can hang your purse up on the coat hooks.” Gold gestured, and Belle followed his instructions.

“This is quite the lovely house you have here.” She spoke to both Gold and Gideon.

“I want to show you around,” Gideon told her.

“We should have dinner first.”

“She’s quite right, Gideon. We don’t want dinner going cold.” Gold started down the hall, and Gideon beckoned Belle to follow him.

The house was grand indeed, and Belle was led to a formal dining room. She’d never been in a house so fancy before. The meal was already laid out before them, looking delicious. It had Belle’s stomach rumbling.

“I helped,” Gideon told her.

“Oh, well, it looks delicious.”

They sat down, and Gold served them. Belle took her first bite; it was just as delicious as it looked.

“Very delicious.” She smiled at Gideon. “I think you’d make a great chef one day, Gideon.”

He smiled in return, and she began cutting her chicken into bite-sized pieces.

“School will be starting in a few days, right?” She asked Gideon.

Gideon nodded. “Next Tuesday.”

“I feel like this summer went by fast.”

“I imagine things will be less busy at the library for you, Miss French.” Gold spoke.

Belle imagined things would be rather boring. “I’m sure it will be.” She simply replied. “Are things at your shop busy?”

“Not particularly, no.” She felt happy that he responded at all.

“What are you most excited about going back to school?” She turned to Gideon. “Seeing your friends?”

“Yes.”

Gideon talked about school and his friends through the meal. Belle only chimed in to tell him what she liked best when she was in school around his age. Rather quickly, they’d finished the meal.

“You can show Belle your room and such, Gideon, if you like,” Gold told him.

“Oh yes.” Gideon smiled wide. “Would you like to see?”

“I’d love to.” She smiled.

“My room’s upstairs.” He beckoned her to follow.

Gideon led her through the dining room to the stairs and began running up them. Belle was still taking in the marvel of the old grand house.

“This is my room.” Gideon held the door open for her, and she came in.

It was a room fitting of a child. Soft blue walls, toys and trinkets filled the room. Gideon walked to a shelving unit, pulling a book from a shelf.

“Here’s your book. I’ve read it a lot. And Papa read it to me when I was younger.” He brought it over, and Belle smiled down at it.

“Was it yours?” Gideon asked.

“It was.” Belle nodded. “And I am glad you have it.”

Gideon carefully closed it back up and put it on the shelf alongside the other books.

“You have quite a collection.” She noted of his books.

“Papa and I both like books.” He told her. “Oh, and I have my baby blanket, too.” He ran over to his bed and pulled the blankets back till he grabbed a small blue blanket.

“Papa says it was the only other thing I had with me.”

Belle slowly sat on Gideon’s bed, inspecting the plain blanket.

“I’m afraid that wasn’t a gift of mine. The hospital staff must have wrapped you in it.”

“Do you remember much from when you gave birth to me?” Gideon thumbed the blanket.

“Yes.” Belle folded her hands in her lap. “It wasn’t a very pleasant day for me. I don’t want to give you the details.”

“I want to know though.”

“It’s still hard for me to remember.” Belle told him slowly. It was too painful for her to talk about.

Gideon’s face fell solemnly, but he didn’t push more.

“Why don’t you show me some of your toys? Which are your favourite ones?” Belle asked him.

Gideon showed her his various toys, presents from birthdays and such.

“I have more stuff downstairs.” He told her when he’d almost shown her everything in his room.

Belle felt overwhelmed by everything all of a sudden. “Well, I think, Gideon, it’s time I get going home.”

“Do you have to? Papa won’t mind, I’m sure.” Gideon pouted.

Belle seriously doubted that.

“I’m afraid so. But this was lovely. I’m so glad to see how happy you are here.” The tears were hard to fight back now.

“But we’ll go on a walk on Tuesday morning again, right?” He pleaded.

“Of course.”

“But what about when school starts?”

“We’ll figure something out. I’m still off on Sundays, as will you be.”

Gideon didn’t seem too pleased.

“Come on. Let’s head back downstairs.”

Gideon nodded solemnly and led her back down the stairs. Belle was quick to the front door and grabbed her purse.

“Leaving already, Miss French?”  Gold had reappeared.

“I don’t want to bother you any longer.” Her voice caught in her throat. “I will see you both on Tuesday morning for our walk.”

“Of course.” He was opening the door as she finished putting her last heel on. The tears felt eminent now.

“Bye, Gideon.” She offered him a quick wave before rushing out the door and running to the side of her car as the tears started.

“I can’t start crying.” She wiped her eyes. “I have to drive home.” She was overcome with hiccupping sobs as she struggled to get her keys out.

She noticed the house door open, and Gold was stepping out.

“Oh, come on.” She hiccupped, shuffling through her purse.

Gold was making his way over, and she was shaking now.

“Miss French, are you sure you’re alright?”

“Just leave me alone.” She turned away, almost wanting to fall down and start sobbing.

“You left rather in a hurry. You worried Gideon.”

She hadn’t meant to do that.

“And me.” The last part was said quietly, unsure. Belle dared to look over at him with her wet eyes.

“My father was right.” She sniffled. “He had a better life without me.”

Gold’s eyes gazed upon her softly as he began to form his next words, twisting his cane. “Miss French. While I have always strived to give Gideon the best life. We can’t say for sure you could not have also given him a good life.”

Belle sniffled, wiping her eyes. “I’m sorry for running out. I should have given Gideon a proper goodbye.”

“I can see you’ve become overcome with emotions.” He nodded gently. She found his niceties soothing.

“I did have a very lovely evening otherwise. The meal was wonderful.”

“Thank you.”

She wiped her eyes with the back of her hand once more.

“Here.” He began pulling out a handkerchief from his pocket.

Belle laughed as he offered it to her. “You know, Mr. Gold, you are a real gentleman.” She accepted it with a small smile.

“I do try.” He ducked his head.

She chuckled as she wiped her face with his handkerchief. Who even still had handkerchiefs? The gesture warmed her heart. Despite Gold’s intimidating exterior, he was really quite nice and a true gentleman.

“And now here I’ve made a complete mess of myself.” She muttered.

“You still look very lovely.”

Belle caught his eye for a moment before his head darted down once again. He seemed almost embarrassed to have said anything at all.

“Well, thank you, Mr. Gold.” She offered him his handkerchief back.

“Keep it.” He waved his hand in nonacceptance. “I’ll tell Gideon you were feeling ill, and that’s why you had to run off.”

“Thank you.” She folded the handkerchief. “I’ll make it up to him, I promise.”

“I’m assured you will, Miss French.”

She smiled at him again, looking into her purse and almost instantly finding her keys.

“I should get going then.”

“Safe driving.”

She tipped her head to him before getting into her car. She still felt on the verge of tears on the ride home, but it wasn’t as bad as before. As she walked to her apartment, she folded Gold’s handkerchief between her hands, thinking of how nice he’d been at that moment. She had expected him to push her to the sidelines of Gideon’s life, but no, he was trying for her sake, and she appreciated that immensely. She also couldn’t help but dwell on his compliment on her appearance, but knew she couldn’t think of that. He was just being a proper gentleman, that was all. As she got up to her apartment, she began to think of a way to make up for her rushing out to Gideon the next time they saw each other.

Chapter Text

It’d be their last Thursday out. Belle was sure it’d be, as school would start next week. She’d gone out after work one day and bought a kite. Thankfully, it looked to be good weather. She waited patiently outside her apartment building for Gold and Gideon to arrive. She spotted them, she waved, and Gideon waved back.

“I have a present.” She couldn’t exactly hide the kite.

“A kite!” Gideon smiled at her.

“I wanted to say sorry for running off so quickly after dinner on Sunday.”

“It’s alright. Papa says you were feeling sick.”

“Yes, but I’m feeling better now. Shall we go fly the kite in the park?”

“Belle,” Gideon spoke as he led the way to the park. “I asked Papa, and he said it was alright. But would you like to walk with us to my school for my first morning on Tuesday?”

“Oh,” Belle felt her heart warm at the offer. “I’d love to.”

Gideon smiled at her, and out of the corner of her eye, she saw Gold smiling as well.

-

A surprising chill was in the air when Belle stepped outside Tuesday morning. She walked to Gold’s shop, where she was to meet Gideon and Gold. Gideon was delighted as ever to see her.

“A bit chilly today, isn’t it?” She smiled. “Should have worn a sweater.” Her bare arms had goosebumps.

“I think it’ll warm up quickly,” Gideon told her.

When Gold was ready, they walked to the school, which was overrun with schoolchildren and parents.

“Have a nice day, Gideon.” Belle waved him goodbye, and the boy was off. She felt odd. Part of her was sad to know she’d only be able to see him maybe once a week now, with school starting.

“Is it hard seeing him off to school?” Belle turned to ask Gold, hugging her cold, bare arms.

“Only, sometimes.” He replied, staring at her with slight concern. “Are you cold?”

“Only, a little.” She smiled at him. “I’ll be warm when I’m back in the library. Speaking of, I should head back if I’m to open it on time.”

“Yes.” Gold nodded. “Do you mind if I walk with you? There is something I’d like to discuss.”

“Of course,” she made room so he could walk beside her, wondering whatever it was he wished to discuss.

“You know how they make you write down an emergency contact for school and stuff.”

“Yes.” She nodded.

“Well, I don’t have any family of my own, so I never particularly knew who to write for Gideon’s emergency contact. I’ve been writing down the Mayor for the past years. I don’t even think she knows, to be honest.”

Belle did think that was rather odd.

“But I thought, perhaps I could change it to you, Miss French.”

Her heart skipped a beat. “Mr. Gold, I would be honoured. But only if you’re okay with it, of course.”

“I think I am.” He nodded slowly. “I’ll have to get your information, of course.”

“Yes, for sure. I’ll write it down for you when we get to the library.”

They reached it quickly, and Belle unlocked the doors to let him in. Inside, she switched the electricity on to hopefully start the heat flowing. She looked at the thermostat, checking what it was set at.

“Is it colder in here?” she joked lightly with Gold as she went to find a pen and paper to write down her information.

“I hope you don’t find running the library all by yourself too much work, Miss French.”

“Oh, hardly.” She smiled at him. “It’s really not that much work.” She scrawled her name, address, and phone number.

“Is that everything?” She asked Gold.

“Yes, that should be sufficient. Thank you.” He took the paper and folded it carefully. As he did, he looked around.

Belle was already turning her attention to turning her computer on, still shivering.

“Miss French, do you feel as though it is blowing cold air.”

“Oh, so that isn’t just me.” She smiled at him. “I turned the thermostat to heat.” She gestured over to it, and Gold came over to check.

“It says 65°F.” He pushed some buttons.

“I set it for 75°F.”

“I’ll watch it for you. Continue with your work.”

Belle was grateful and went back to turning her computer on. She shivered as the cold air continued blowing through the vents.

“Miss French, the thermostat is going down.”

“Oh, dear.”

“I’ll get Marco for you. His shop isn’t far from here.” He turned to her, seeing her arms wrapped tightly against herself.

“Here.” He was taking off his jacket then. “Have my jacket to keep yourself warm.”

“Oh, thank you, Mr. Gold.” She took it slowly, feeling touched by the gesture.

“I’ll be back shortly.” He was off then.

Belle put on the suit jacket, and it just nearly engulfed her. The fabric was silk-like and wasn’t exactly the kind of fabric to warm up quickly. However, that added layer was nice. She dared to breathe in the scent of it. It smelled of sandalwood and warm cologne. It was nice, and she pulled it closer.

She returned to her tasks of opening the library before Gold returned with the handyman. The man was elderly and smiled warmly at Belle.

“Right here, Marco.” Gold brought him over to the thermostat.

The pair worked away, not bothering Belle as she went about her tasks. They had to go into the back room at one point to check the heater, but that was it. Finally, she felt heat blowing.

“Oh, thank you.” She smiled over at them.

“The heater should be working as usual.” Marco smiled at her.

“How much do I owe you?”

“It’s no trouble at all. On the house.”

Belle wanted to argue.

“Any friend of Gold’s.” Marco looked over at him.

“Yes, well.” Gold hummed.

Belle felt warm again and remembered Gold’s jacket around her. “Here, Mr. Gold, your jacket back.” She took it off, handing it to him. “I’m sorry to have stolen your time. You should be working at your shop.”

He slowly took his jacket back from her, folding it over his arm. “No bother at all. However, I should get going. I will see you on Sunday for our morning walk.”

“Oh yes.” She nodded, and he tipped his head towards Marco in final parting.

“Are you sure I can’t pay you?” Belle tried with Marco once Gold had left.

He shook his head.

“A book then, perhaps?”

“Oh, maybe something for my boy, August.”

“Oh, your shop must be across from Mr. Gold’s. Gideon’s friends with your son, isn’t he?”

“Indeed. I’ve been looking after Gideon from time to time for Mr. Gold. Not very many people he trusts around his son.”

Belle smiled at that. “Is your son into adventure novels?”

“Oh yes.”

“I think I can find the perfect book.”

“If you don’t mind me asking, how do you know Mr. Gold? I couldn’t imagine him giving his jacket to just anyone.”

Belle felt nervous as she scanned the children’s aisle. “Well, I’m not sure if Mr. Gold would want me to say.”

Marco raised his eyebrows. “I’ve never seen Mr. Gold with a lady and never thought I would.”

“Oh, no.” Belle rushed to say. “It’s nothing like that.” The blush was back on her cheeks.

“As I said, Miss French. Mr. Gold wouldn’t give his jacket to just anyone. Let alone help them out. He’s usually not particularly friendly at all to people.”

Gold had told her he wasn’t great with people. That he was scared of her taking Gideon from him. Yet he was being so nice to her, doing more than just letting her see Gideon. It sent her mind wandering a little.

“I see,” Belle replied slowly as she scanned the shelves. She’d found the book she was looking for and pulled it out. “Here it is. I think your son will enjoy this. I’m afraid you’ll still have to return it in two weeks.”

Marco laughed. “I couldn’t imagine otherwise. If you ever need my help again, I assume you know where my shop is.”

“Indeed. Thank you, Mr.…?”

“Just call me Marco.”

Chapter Text

It had been a week since Gideon had returned to school. Belle had a lovely Sunday at the park with him, Gideon telling her all about his first week. It was a slow day at the library, and Belle was organizing the returns. Only, parents of young children were perusing the books, and an elderly gentleman stopped at her desk to ask about a particular author. Belle had been helping the man when she heard the phone ring at the front desk. It never rang. Gladis said it was only, really used for emergencies, though the library did have its phone number advertised. But for what purpose would one need to call the library? Belle was alarmed, to say the least, and excused herself politely to answer it.

“Miss French?” A male voice came from the other side of the line.

“Yes, who is this?”

“This is Doctor Whale from the Storybrooke General Hospital.”

“Oh!” Alarm went through Belle. She suddenly remembered Gold putting her down as Gideon’s emergency contact.

“Has something happened to Gideon?!” She asked in fright.

“No, it’s Mr. Gold, I’m afraid.”

“Oh, dear heavens.” Belle placed a hand on her now racing heart.

“He’s had a heart attack. He’s alright. We called his son’s school and informed his teacher. Mr. Gold asked if you could bring Gideon to the hospital.”

“Yes, of course. I’ll be there as soon as possible.”

“Thank you, Miss French.”

Belle hung up the phone without even saying goodbye, her eyes flickering around the library in panic.

“Excuse me!” She raised her voice, and all heads looked at her. “I’m afraid I’ve had a personal emergency come up, and I’m afraid I’ll have to close up the library for the day. If you wouldn’t mind checking out your books quickly.”

The customers jumped to action, parents beckoning their kids onward.

“We’re so sorry, Miss French. We hope that whatever it is, it will be alright.” The parents said as they passed.

“We’ll see.” She forced a smile at them.

Thankfully, everyone filed out quickly, and Belle was able to lock up the library even with trembling fingers. She drove then to Gideon’s school.

It was just past two in the afternoon, and Belle headed to the main office inside the school. Gideon was waiting for her, sitting, looking terrible.

“Belle!” He jumped up at the sight of her. “What happened to Papa? Will he be alright?”

“I don’t know, Gideon. But I’m taking you to the hospital to see him.” She offered him her hand.

“Is there anything I need to fill out?” She asked the secretary.

“No, Miss French. I hope for the best for your father, Gideon.”

Gideon nodded solemnly, and Belle gently pulled him along by his hand.

“Oh, do you need a car seat? I don’t have one.” Belle thought to herself.

“No, I haven’t had one for a few years now. Though papa says, I’m still not allowed to sit in the front.”

“Quite right.” Belle nodded and opened the back door for him.

“Will Papa be alright?” Gideon asked when Belle got into the car.

“All the hospital said was that he had a heart attack. I’m afraid they can be very bad sometimes. But my father had one, maybe when I was no older than you. He still lives a very healthy life.”

“Were you scared when your father had a heart attack?”

“No. I barely even remember it.” She hoped her words would assure Gideon. Belle, however, was worried about Gold and rushed to the hospital. When they arrived, they were shown to a room where Gold was lying in.

“Papa!” Gideon rushed to him, and Gold reached out to hug him. “Are you alright? I was so worried?”

“I think I’ll be fine. But I have to stay so they can run some tests. Seeing you is making me feel much better.” Gold smiled warmly at his son.

Belle wrapped an arm around herself. She felt ill and cold. It had been a long time since she’d been in the hospital, and it was bringing horrible memories back. Seeing Gold lying there in the hospital gown, looking not at all like himself, was not helping her feel better at all.

“What happened?” Gideon asked.

“It was an average day. Then, I felt a shooting pain in my chest. I felt I should call for help and went to Marco’s before I doubled over from pain. He called the ambulance, and the next thing I knew, I was being taken to the hospital. It wasn’t very pleasant, I do admit.”

“I’m just glad you’re okay.” Gideon leaned his head against his father, and Gold kissed his head.

Gold met Belle’s eyes then. “Thank you, Miss French. I am sorry to have startled you and upset you today. I didn’t know who else to have them call.”

“It’s no trouble at all.” She shook her head, a tremor threatening to work its way through her. “It’s as Gideon said. I’m just glad to see you’re alright.”

“Ah, Mr. Gold, your son is here then.” A doctor had walked into the room.

“Don’t worry, lad, your father will be right as rain.” The doctor assured him. “He’s in good hands. The ambulance arrived right on time. We just have to run some X-rays to assess if there was any damage to his heart. Most heart attack patients stay in the hospital for two to five days at most.”

“That’s almost a whole week.” Gideon looked panicked again.

“That’s only at the worst, I assure you. Your x-ray has been scheduled for an hour from now, Mr. Gold.” He ducked his head and was gone as fast as he came.

“Will you really be in the hospital for that long?” Gideon asked, clutching his father’s hand tightly.

“I hope not,” Gold told him. “But arrangements should be made just in case.” He looked at Belle again, and she dared to come closer. She was trying to reassure herself that he would be fine.

“Miss French, I would be quite grateful if you could look after Gideon while I am otherwise incapacitated.”

“Of course I will.” She was nodding.

Gold smiled weakly. He didn’t look well at all. Belle wished he could be back in his formal suits, looking like his old self and not in the bed.

“Your apartment only has one room, is my understanding?” Gold continued.

“Yes.” She nodded again a bit more slowly.

“You can stay at my place then. If need be. Gideon knows where the spare key is, and he can set you up in the spare bedroom. It’s never been used before, but it should suffice.”

“Yes, I’m sure it will.”

“Papa, is there anything we can do for you?” Gideon asked. “Anything to make you more comfortable? Something to drink or eat, perhaps?”

“Oh, that would be nice.”

“Why don’t we go see what we can find, Gideon.” Belle offered him her hand once again, and Gideon took it, bidding his father goodbye.

Gideon seemed nervous at the vending machine, and Belle couldn’t blame him.

“Papa told me he doesn’t like hospitals,” Gideon told her.

“Most people don’t particularly. It’s not very fun being ill.”

Gideon shook his head. “I hope he won’t have to stay long.”

“I hope not as well.”

They walked back, and Belle paused before the room. “I’ll give you some time alone with your father, Gideon. I’ll be waiting over there if you need me.” She pointed to the sitting area, and Gideon nodded.

Belle felt a need to step away. This all was reminding her a fair too much of when her mother had been in the same hospital.

A few minutes passed before Gideon came back out. “Belle, Papa says he wants to talk with you alone.”

“Oh.” She wondered what it could be. “Well, stay here. I’m sure it will be quick.” She sat Gideon on a chair and headed to Gold’s room; she closed the door slightly.

/

It had all been so sudden and was still a bit blurry in Gold’s memory. His chest still hurt, and he felt lightheaded as well. Seeing Gideon had brought his spirits back up, however. When Whale asked who else he should call, the only person Gold could think of was Belle. Gold felt assured she could drive Gideon to the hospital to see him and was grateful she had. He also felt assured that she would look after his son. He was suddenly glad to have her, for if he hadn’t, who else would look after Gideon? It still felt hard to do, however, to allow Gideon to go into her care. It’d be hard to let him be looked after by someone else, most certainly. But also, Gold felt a pain knowing that he wasn’t well enough to look after his own son, something he’d feared his whole life.

Belle walked into his hospital room, looking as beautiful as ever, bringing light to the cold, dull room.

“Thank you again, Miss French, for bringing Gideon.” Gold spoke.

“Of course.” She slowly approached his bedside. She had been looking a bit ill since she arrived at the hospital. Gold hoped seeing him like this hadn’t made her ill.

Her eyes passed over him slowly. “I must say, Mr. Gold, seeing you like this is not pleasant at all. I think I much prefer you in your suits.”

He chuckled lightly, and she smiled softly. He was glad to see her smile back.

“I much prefer to be in my suits as well, Miss French.” He repositioned himself on the bed. It was not particularly comfy at all. “I don’t particularly like hospitals.”

“Gideon said as much.”

Gold had hated hospitals, the memories they brought back. But it was different now that he was the one here. It didn’t bring back the memories of Neal, but of his car accident. Not that that had been any less pleasant, but it had been less heart-wrenching.

“This whole ordeal has got me thinking.” He took a deep breath, still unsure of the decision he was about to make up in his mind. It would be for the best, though. His life was fleeting; this had proved that.

“Got me thinking if I should die.”

“You’re not going to die, Mr. Gold.” She shook her head fiercely.

“Yes, but if that were ever the case. There would be no one to look after Gideon. And so I think I’d like to make you Gideon’s guardian in my stay. It seems only fitting as you are his mother.”

Belle was still shaking her head fiercely, looking almost like she might cry.

“When I am in good health again,” Gold continued. “I will change my will. All my belongings will be passed to you and Gideon. My house and such.”

“I don’t want your house.” She replied sharply. “And you will not die, Mr. Gold. Promise me.” She grabbed his hand urgently, tightly. The gesture shocked Gold, but he found comfort in it and grasped it back.

 “Yes, of course.” He assured her quietly, even though, realistically, he couldn’t assure her that he would not die. “It is just a precaution, I assure you.”

She sniffled, and a tear fell from her eyes. She quickly let go of Gold’s hand and then wiped it away.

“Very well. I am grateful that you trust me enough to look after Gideon.” She wiped her eyes some more.

“I am sorry to have upset you with all this, Miss French. I don’t like seeing you like this.”

“I just.” She hiccupped and wiped her eyes. “My mother died in this same hospital, so I’m sure you can understand my state.”

“Yes, I do.” He replied slowly, his eyes dropping from her.

“I’ll bring Gideon back in, shall I?” She asked then.

“I do believe I’m due for my x-ray.” He nodded to the clock on the wall.

“Oh yes. It seemed more time has passed than I realized.”

Sure enough, Whale had appeared at the door, knocking gently. “We’re ready for you now, Mr. Gold.”

/

Belle waited beside Gideon patiently. She folded her hands in her lap, nervously thumbing the back of her hand. Finally, the doctor returned with Gold, and they reconvened in his room.

“No damage done to the heart, thankfully. Only a small blockage in one of the valves.” Whale pointed to a picture as if it explained anything. “A simple, quick and easy surgery. Performed all the time. It’s called a coronary angioplasty, where we put a small stent into the blocked artery to keep it open and keep the blood moving.”

Whale smiled as if proud of himself. “Recovery is two days in the hospital. Then you might have some pain at home. We recommend having someone around at home to help out if you should need it. Otherwise, most people recover almost fully within a week. Of course, you’ll have to start taking medication to reduce your risk of another heart attack in the future. And we always recommend keeping with a healthy lifestyle. Healthy eating choices and keeping active. That stuff.”

“Papa does that all the time,” Gideon spoke up.

“Very good.” Doctor Whale smiled. “Then that isn’t a problem then. It becomes a higher likelihood for one to experience a heart attack as one gets older. And of course, one might have a family history of it. Any questions, Mr. Gold?”

“You say I’ll be able to go in two days?” He asked.

“We will continue to assess your recovery. But most likely yes.”

Gold nodded slowly.

“We’ve already scheduled your surgery for tonight, so that should speed things along.”

“Yes, thank you.”

“If that’s all.” Whale nodded and left the room.

“You’re going to be okay, Papa?” Gideon asked again.

“Yes, I think so.” Gold squeezed his hand. “You’ll have to go with Belle for tonight, but you can come to see me again tomorrow if you like.”

“Of course we’ll come, papa.”

Gold smiled. They hugged, and Gold kissed his head once again. “Now, you promise to be good for Belle.”

“I promise, papa.”

Belle offered her hand to Gideon, and they slowly parted. “We’ll see you tomorrow, Mr. Gold.”

Gold nodded solemnly as they headed out of the room. Belle hated leaving him but was also a bit glad to escape the hospital. It was a quiet car ride to Belle’s apartment.

“I have to pick up some of my things.” She told Gideon. “Would you care to come with me?”

Gideon agreed to come up with her. Belle packed her bags and called Gladis to inform her that a personal emergency had come up and she couldn’t run the library for the next few days. Gladis was understanding as ever.

Once packed up, they drove to Gold’s house on the other side of town. Gideon led her to the back of a small shed, where inside was hidden a spare key. With it, they were able to open the house. It felt dreadfully empty with the lights off. Belle went around, flipping them on.

“I can show you to the guest room,” Gideon told her.

The guest room was basically bare, clearly never touched. Gideon had to find sheets in a closet for them to lie on the bed. Belle figured it would suit her for the night, but she couldn’t imagine being comfortable.

“You must be starving.” She turned to Gideon. She was starving herself.

Gideon nodded hesitantly. “Let’s see what we can make you, hmm? What do you like? How about spaghetti?”

“I guess.” Was his only reply.

After the quiet dinner, Gideon only really wanted to go to bed. Belle understood and told him she’d clean up from the meal. She felt too out of place in the house, not knowing where anything was. Gideon had helped her with the dinner, which had been nice. Once cleaned up, she headed upstairs to the guest room, quite tired from the day’s events. She’d just stepped inside when Gideon poked his head around the corner, now wearing his pyjamas.

“Belle, do you think you could read me a book to help me sleep?” He asked, unsure but desperation in his eyes.

“Of course,” she smiled warmly at him. She coaxed him back to his room, and he picked out a small book from his shelf.

Belle read it to him as he settled into his bed. She felt a warmth filling her chest as she read, looking over at him. How many times had she imagined a moment like this, wondering if she could ever have it with him? And now, he was here.

Gideon was beginning to drift off, and Belle stopped at the end of the chapter. Unable to stop herself, she reached out to comb her fingers through Gideon’s hair.

“Good night, Gideon,” she whispered over him. “Sleep well.”

When Belle woke, she’d found herself having had quite a lovely sleep. The bed provided was very comfortable despite her discomfort in the strange house. Belle set about to make a breakfast that they could bring to Gold. She left Gideon to wake up of his own accord and was left searching desperately for what they had in their house. She found some frozen hashbrowns and thought they might be the perfect thing to bring. Not too long after cooking them up, Gideon had come down to the kitchen.

“Gideon, do you have a phone number for your school?” Belle asked.

“Yes, it’s in the book by the phone.” He went to get it for her.

“Thank you.” She smiled at him when he handed it over.

“Would you mind putting this food in some containers for me? We’re going to take it to your father. I have to call your school.”

Belle called the school, explaining that Gideon would be absent for a few days while his father recovered. When that was done, she made sure Gideon was ready to head to the hospital.

Gold was still in the same room. He was asleep when they found him. Whale had stopped by to inform them the surgery went successfully and Gold should heal up in the two days as expected. Gideon and Belle sat in chairs by Gold’s bedside while he slept. They ate their breakfast from the containers.

“I should have made a card or brought flowers,” Gideon spoke.

“I’m sure your father will be happy enough to see you when he wakes,” Belle assured him.

Gold soon began stirring, and Gideon raced to his side.

“Oh, Gideon.” Gold smiled tiredly. “What is that delicious smell?”

“Belle brought breakfast for you. Are you hungry?”

“I think I could try and get something down.” He sat up, and Belle brought over his container.

“Thank you, Miss French.”

“I’ve called Gideon’s school and informed them he’ll be absent for the next few days. Is there anything you need handled at your shop?” She wanted to help wherever he might need.

“Oh no. Marco assured me he’d handle that all.”

Belle nodded, relieved.

“What about the library?”

“Gladis has taken up in my leave.”

Gold nodded before trying a bite of the hashbrowns.

“How are you feeling after your surgery, Papa?” Gideon asked.

“Rather stiff.” Gold massaged over his chest.

“Dr. Whale said you should heal up in two days, then you can come back home.”

“That is good news then.” He smiled.

“Do you want anything while you’re here?”

“I brought some books.” Belle put in.

Gold looked over with mild interest, and she produced her bag. With Gideon’s help, Gold looked over them.

“Why don’t you read that one to me, Gideon?” Gold pointed to one.

Gideon was more than happy to do so. Belle sat by, watching them, noticing that Gold had stopped eating after only a few bites. She hoped he was feeling alright.

After Gideon had finished the short book, Belle noticed how tired Gold looked.

“If you’re done with your food, Mr. Gold, I can take that back.” She offered.

“I’m afraid my appetite hasn’t come back yet.” He handed her the container.

“Give it time.” She assured him. “I think Gideon and I might go for a walk to get some fresh air and allow you to rest.”

“Yes, I think that’d be nice.” He stifled a yawn.

Gideon gave him a hug goodbye, and Belle led the boy out of the hospital.

“Could we go to the store and find a card and some flowers for Papa?” Gideon asked.

“I think that’s a lovely idea.”

Chapter Text

They’d walked to the pharmacy and picked up some flowers and a card. They stopped so Gideon could write something down inside. They then returned to the hospital. It all felt too familiar for Belle, and she desperately wanted to leave. She let Gideon spend some time alone with his father when they returned. She wasn’t going to force Gideon away. After another hour or so, Gold was the one to encourage Gideon about leaving, assuming Gideon didn’t want to stay in the hospital and ensuring him he’d be alright.

After a bit of prompting, Gideon did cave. Only, Gold’s house didn’t make Belle feel any more comfortable as she was a stranger to it. She did her best to keep Gideon’s spirits up, and they watched a movie together and made dinner. Gideon did enjoy making dinner with her, clearly having a passion for cooking. She enjoyed it too, enjoyed spending sweet, precious time alone with him, even despite the terrible circumstances.

The next morning, they set out to visit Gold again.

“Yes, he should be fine to go tomorrow morning.” Whale informed them.

“Hear that papa!?” Gideon gripped his father’s hands.

“I’ll be happy to be out of this place.” Gold smiled at his son. His eyes flickered to Belle, almost apprehensive.

“Miss French, would you happen to have some change for Gideon to run to the vending machine?”

“Of course.” She dug through her purse and produced some.

“Go get whatever you like.” She told Gideon, and he was off. She’d realized it was a ploy for Gold to talk with her alone.

“Miss French, I’ll be needing someone to drive me home.” Gold spoke once they were alone.

“I had presumed.” She nodded in understanding.

“Now, I won’t be taking advantage of you, Miss French. And I don’t want you doing anything just because you feel sorry for me.”

“Of course not.” She rushed to say. Of course, she did feel sorry for him, in the way anyone feels sorry for a sick person. And besides, it was the right thing to do, to help out.

“Dr. Whale has been rather insistent that I’ll need help. And much as it pains me to admit, I can see that he is right. I’m afraid that the only other person I have is Gideon.”

“Mr. Gold, I don’t mind at all helping you out for a few days. As I’ve said, Gladis has taken over my duties at the library.”

“Only a few days at most.”

She nodded.

“Have you been comfortable at my house?”

“As comfortable as I can make it.” She wrung her hands nervously before quickly correcting herself. “Not to say your house isn’t lovely. It’s just unfamiliar to me, that’s all.”

“No, I understand. It’s not your home.”

“Exactly.”

“If you prefer to return to your apartment…”

Belle cut him off quickly. “Mr. Gold, honestly, it’s fine. If you need the extra help, I will stay for a few more days.”

He seemed to be thinking it over.

“Unless you don’t want me there.” She offered slowly, wondering if that was it.

“I don’t like feeling…” he took a long breath. “Like a burden.”

“It won’t be. It’ll be what, two days at most? You’ll need the help with Gideon.”

“Yes.” He nodded. “And he should be getting back to school, no matter how much he protests.”

Belle smiled at that.

Whale came by when Gideon returned with chocolates for them all. Whale told them how to assist Gold’s recovery at home. Make healthy foods and take daily walks, that sort of thing.

“We’ll pick you up at ten tomorrow then,” Belle told Gold at the end of their stay.

-

Belle had woken up early and in desperate need of a shower.

“Do you think your father would mind if I borrowed your shower?” She asked Gideon as she made him some porridge.

“He won’t mind,” Gideon assured her.

Belle still felt uncomfortable, however, as she stepped into the shower. Perhaps she should have gone home to take a shower, but this one was here. Belle didn’t bring any soap or shampoo with her and would have to use what was available. She picked one out, smelling it first. It wasn’t the warm floral scent she was used to, but a more masculine smell. She found herself liking it. It reminded her of Gold’s cologne: sandalwood, and other warm, deep sents she couldn’t define.

Belle had a nice quick shower and dried herself off with a plush fluffy towel. It was all very nice indeed. Despite still feeling a bit uncomfortable in Gold’s house, she was rather enjoying its niceties. Even despite the emptiness of the guest room, she’d never slept better than in the comfortable bed. She knew this was only temporary; she’d have to go back home soon.

After drying off and changing, Belle began planning to bring Gold home. She began wondering if he had clothes to come home in. She realized Gold probably had the clothes he arrived at the hospital in, but she couldn’t help but think he might like some new, fresh clothes. Belle didn’t care to go into his bedroom without permission. Gideon’s would have to do in the pinch. Of course, Gideon thought Gold wouldn’t mind at all if Belle went into his room and was more than eager to help Belle pick out some clothes to bring him.

Belle felt like she was incredibly intruding when Gideon showed her inside the room. It looked much more lived-in than the guest room, with dressers covered in items. However, everything seemed to be very orderly. There was a soft smell to the room, familiar to the one that now clung to Belle after her shower.

 Gideon helped Belle find a small carpet bag that they could pack with the clothes. Then he began opening dresser drawers to help her find articles of clothing. Belle dug through the nicely folded tops. She began to realize how intimate this all was. First, she’d showered in his shower and used his soap, and now she was digging through his clothing. It was enough to bring a blush to her cheeks. Yes, maybe it was almost time she returned to her own home. Belle focused on the task at hand, unable to help herself but caress her hand over the fine fabric of the dress shirts. She’d most certainly never picked out an outfit for someone before. However, she had stolen a few boyfriends’ sweaters back in the day.

Gideon broke her out of her mind, telling her what shirts his father favoured. Belle let the fine fabric slip through her fingers, again wondering exactly how much money he made from his antique shop. Everything Gold owned seemed to be expensive, from the house, to the car, to the nice suits, right down to his dinnerware. It was clear to her he had money.

Gideon opened the top drawer where Gold’s ties were folded nicely inside. Belle looked over them before finding a nice blue one that she thought would match the top Gideon and she picked out, and packed it in as well. With an outfit picked out, they were ready to pick Gold up from the hospital.

Gold had yet to wake up when they arrived at the hospital, but Gideon nudged him gently.

“Papa, we’re here to take you home.”

Gold hummed as he began to wake up.

“We brought you a change of clothes.”

“Oh, that’ll be nice to change.”

“Here, Gideon.” Belle handed him over the bag. “You help your father with his clothes while I wait outside.”

Gideon nodded, and Belle quickly left the room, closing the door behind her. She was already making a mental list to keep herself busy. Belle could help by making food; maybe they could go for a walk later. She could call Gideon’s school to inform them of his return. Belle assumed Gideon would want to stay and help his father, but Gold was right; he should be getting back to school. It was Friday, and then it’d be the weekend, so Gideon could return to school on Monday. Gold had assumed he’d only need her assistance for two days at most. So she’d only stay for the weekend, she imagined, while Gideon was there. It’d mean Belle wouldn’t be left alone with Gold. It was a small relief to her. She wouldn’t know what to do if she was left alone with him.

/

A scar across his chest greeted him when Gold took off his hospital gown—a stark reminder of his brink of death, like his leg. The ugly scar almost felt like it belonged over his heart.

“Here, papa.” Gideon held up his shirt.

“Thank you, Gideon.”

“Does it hurt?” Gideon asked, taking in his new scar.

“Just feels tight,” Gold reassured him.

Putting on his shirt was a bit of a struggle, but Whale had assured Gold that he would be capable of that much.

“Thank you for the change of clothes.” It did feel nice not to wear the horrid, scratchy hospital gown. It was nice to be back in his suits.

“Belle helped me pick them out.”

The image of her rifling through his clothes popped into his head. He’d hoped she felt comfortable in his house, but it seemed she’d made herself quite at home. It made him a tad uncomfortable.

Gold finished changing, and with Gideon’s help, they packed his stuff into the bag Gideon had brought. Once ready, they made their way out of the god-forsaken hospital room. Belle had sat down in the waiting room and stood up when they walked over. A smile crossed her lips as her eyes fell on Gold.

“It is nice seeing you look like yourself again, Mr. Gold.”

Gold hummed.

“Only…”

Suddenly, she was coming quite close. Gold gripped his cane tightly, unsure why she was approaching him. She was in his space, centimetres in front of him, her hands reaching to his tie. She fixed it, pulling it a little tighter. Gold’s heart raced at her closeness, at her touching him. He could smell her perfume, only it smelt familiar, like his own shampoo. Then he noticed her damp hair. Had she taken a shower, a shower in his home? A brief flicker of her naked had him lightheaded. Boundaries. He stepped back.

“There, much better.” She was still smiling.

“Yes, thank you, Miss French.” He was afraid of having a heart attack again.

“Belle picked out the tie,” Gideon told him.

“I just thought it matched nicely.” She appeared to be blushing. He was trying not to think of the implications of that.

“Yes, it’s quite nice, thank you.” He cleared his throat awkwardly. “Shall we get going then?”

“Yes, I’m sure you’re more than ready to get home.”

Suddenly, she was offering her arm. Gold didn’t want to take it; he didn’t trust himself. Only, he would be more supported with her help than Gideon’s. He took it tentatively. They began to move to the elevators, Gideon carrying the bag.

It was slow moving to her car in the parking lot. When they finally reached it, Gold massaged his tight chest.

“Are you alright, Papa?” Gideon asked.

“Yes, fine. Just a little sore.” Gold reassured him.

Belle ushered them into her car, helping Gold in. It wasn’t making him feel much better, having her help him like he was some kind of imbecile. Belle moved to get into the driver’s side, and Gold fixed his seat belt. They didn’t talk much on their drive back, and Gold felt relieved to see his house again. Belle insisted on helping him out and to the house. Finally, she let go of him when they were inside.

“I’ll make us some lunch,” Belle told him. “What would you like?”

“Maybe just a simple sandwich.”

Belle nodded.

“I think I’ll go rest in my office.”

-

In his office, Gold began concocting what would be his new will. He’d have to call his lawyer another day. It felt urgent now, to ensure Gideon would be taken care of if ever Gold should die. And now, after time of getting to know Belle, he felt sure she’d look after him well. And with Gold’s money, she’d never be in want. He thought again of her tiny apartment. Did the library position really pay that little? He’d look into it; he thought she should be paid more. After all, she was practically running that place herself. He hated thinking of how much work it all was for her, even if she insisted it wasn’t.

Gideon had come into his office to check in on him.

“Did you do any homework, Gideon?” Gold asked.

“Yes.” He nodded quickly. “I didn’t have much.”

“That’s good to hear.” He smiled. “Now, after the weekend, you’re returning to school, you hear?” He pointed a threatening pen his son’s way.

“Are you sure, Papa?” he asked, his face all sad.

“Yes, I’m positive.”

“Fine.” He huffed. “Will Belle be staying for a few more days?”

“Just till you’re back to school.” That was as long as he thought he could handle having her around.

“I like having her around, even though I missed you. We made dinners.”

“Well, I’m glad that you get along.” He smiled at Gideon. “Now, why don’t you see how she’s getting along with lunch, hmm?”

Gideon nodded, jumped up and ran off. Shortly, he returned to tell Gold that Belle had lunch ready. Gold’s stomach was still not feeling like it could hold much down. When he sat at the dining table, he was only able to get a few bites of the sandwich down.  

“Do you think you’d like to go for a short walk outside?” Belle suggested. “Dr. Whale did say it’d be good.”

“I could do with some fresh air.” He told her.

Gideon walked beside Gold, holding his hand. Gold was glad Gideon had insisted on holding his hand, which meant he wouldn’t receive Belle’s help. He knew she was only trying to be nice, but still, he couldn’t stand it. It wasn’t so painful, walking. Only, that he did feel rather sore, the skin around his chest feeling tight. Gold did his best to appear unaffected for Gideon, at least.

Gold felt old, older than usual. Only old people experienced heart attacks. Was that what he was now, old? He was, after all, almost forty. Most times, he felt fifty, with his cane and what not. He was falling apart; that was what was happening.

How much older would he feel when Gideon was going off to university? Gold didn’t want to miss anything from Gideon’s life. He wanted to see every graduation, see him fall in love, maybe get married one day. Gold hoped he wouldn’t be too old and he wouldn’t have completely fallen apart by then.

They returned inside, and Gold rested on the couch. Gideon chose something for them to watch. It felt nice, the normalcy of it all. Belle being there felt off, for sure. Clearly, she was out of her comfort. Gold wondered if there was anything more, he could do to make her feel comfortable. But was that something he wanted to do?

Gold drifted off for a nap. He must have taken a long slumber, for when he woke, Belle had dinner prepared, telling him Gideon had helped. Gold ate a little as she talked about possibly doing groceries for him tomorrow. He imagined they most likely did need some and told her she could if she wanted. He even allowed Gideon to go with her.

After dinner, Gideon helped Gold up the stairs to his room. Finally, alone with the door closed, Gold took off his shirt to stare at the scar. He didn’t want to think about it. He fell upon his bed, his leg in pain. He felt pathetic. He hadn’t felt this bad since his car accident. He would keep pushing onward. He had to for Gideon. He wouldn’t be anyone’s burden.

-

In the morning, Gold woke to the smell of something cooking and the sounds of laughter. It was the strangest thing for him to wake up to, and suddenly, he remembered Belle being there.

Gold slowly but surely got dressed and descended the stairs. When he came into the kitchen, he found Gideon and Belle laughing away. For a moment, Gold felt a pang in his chest to see Gideon being so close to her—that worry of losing him almost coming back. But the feeling quickly changed to warmth and happiness at seeing them getting along so splendidly.

They were both dressed for the day. Belle in another of her spring dresses that made her look lovely and cheerful. It brought more warmth to Gold’s chest, and he stared for maybe too long. He shook himself out of it, though. No, there’d be no way she’d appreciate him staring.

“I’m glad to see everyone in good spirits.” Gold spoke up as he came in.

“Papa.” Gideon ran into him, threatening to knock him over.

“Careful Gideon. I’m still healing, remember?”

“Sorry.”

“It’s alright.” Gold ruffled his hair before smoothing it back out.

“We made breakfast.”

“Pancakes.” Belle announced. “I hope you don’t mind. Gideon rather insisted.”

“No, I think pancakes are just what we need.” He sat down at the table.

He watched in fascination as she moved about the table serving them. Her dress swayed as she did so. It was like a warm, bright light had been brought into their old house. Gold was welcomed to it. Only, he knew she didn’t belong there.

After breakfast, Belle talked about doing groceries again, and Gold made a list for her and Gideon. They left soon after, leaving the house deadly quiet. Gold moved to his study to find a book and made himself comfortable in the sitting room.

Belle and Gideon returned shortly, and despite his offer to help, Belle insisted that he needed to rest, and she had everything handed. Gold hated feeling like he couldn’t be of assistance. But Gold didn’t push it, returning to his seat and book. Gideon soon came over to him, asking what he was reading. They talked for a bit; then Gold suggested that Gideon put something on the TV for him and Belle to watch.

Belle made lunch later and offered to make tea.

“No, I can make tea.” Gold insisted. “I like it to be done right.”

He worked around her, and she prepared some sandwiches again.

“So, how do you make tea properly then?” She asked, observing him closely.

“You don’t pour it into mugs, for one.” He told her, pulling out his fine chinaware cups.

“I see.” She smiled as she passed too close to him, and he caught a whiff of his soap again. She really should be getting back to her own home, he thought.

Chapter Text

Gold had survived the three days of Belle’s stay. She’d apparently already called Gideon’s school without Gold even asking. It was a small relief; she had been very helpful but had her own life to return to, Gold reminded himself.

Gideon had gone off to bed early with school the next morning.

“Would you care for some tea before heading to bed, Mr. Gold?” Belle asked.

He hesitated, about to say no. He had always insisted on making his tea himself. It never was done properly otherwise. Only, Belle had watched him rather closely when he’d made it the past few days.

“Alright.” He agreed.

She seemed to have easily learned where things were now, floating about his kitchen.

“I’ll drive Gideon to school tomorrow morning.” She offered. Gold had been hoping she might. Whale had told him he shouldn’t drive for maybe more than a week of recovering. And besides, his car was still at his shop.

She began pulling the cups out of his cupboard, holding them with such care as the kettle started to heat up on the stove. Belle pulled some tea bags from their container before the kettle whistled. She put some sugar into the mugs, only a scoop each. She had been watching closely indeed.

“Here you are.” Belle came to the table with the tea.

“Thank you, Miss French.”

She sat down in the chair across from me. “You know, you can call me Belle.”

Did he dare to use her first name? He was trying to maintain boundaries, after all. A part of him wanted to try it, however.

“Belle,” he used her name ever so carefully, unsure if he should even be allowed to use it. “I think I shall not return to work for another week, perhaps. But then I may need you to drive me there, seeing as how my car is still at my shop.”

She nodded.

“Otherwise, I believe I shall be alright without your assistance by tomorrow. You do, after all, have to get back to your job.”

“Honestly, Mr. Gold. The library can survive without me. If you need the help, I don’t mind.”

“I don’t need the help.” He replied coldly, his hands gripping his cup tightly.

“Okay.” She replied with a dip of her head. “But you will ask for help should you need it, yes?”

“I think I’ll be alright.” He really didn’t want her to think him helpless anymore.

“It’s okay to ask for help. You did just almost die.”

“I’d rather not think about it, Miss French.”

“I understand.” She picked up the cup of tea she poured for herself. “If you’re sure, then. I’ll return to my apartment tomorrow after I drop Gideon off. I’ll drive him every day till you are up for driving yourself. I could still make meals if you like.”

“I wouldn’t ask that of you.” He shook his head.

“And what if I insisted?” Her eyes fell on him. He could tell there’d be no arguing against her.

“Then I guess I wouldn’t stop you.” He took a cautious sip of his tea; it was still steaming hot.

She smiled, pleased, before taking a sip of her tea. “Have you always lived in Storybrooke?”

“No, I think I moved here right after you left. I remember your father’s shop. It was quite close to mine when I opened my shop. He was into gambling, I remember, and would pawn off anything he could to me for the extra money.”

Belle nodded slowly. “He was never the same after mother died. My father started drinking and gambling. He’s only gotten slightly better recently.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” He wrapped his hands slowly around his cup. “I know how death changes a person.”

She stared at him curiously. He prayed she wouldn’t pry anymore. “Why did you come here?” She asked then.

“It was a fresh start, away from my past.” He told her cautiously.

“I guess I can understand that.” She continued sipping her tea, and he wondered what else they could talk about.

“I do appreciate all you’ve done for us, Belle.”

“No problem at all, Mr. Gold. Any time.”

/

It was the next morning, and Gideon had come down for breakfast in his school uniform.

“Can we have pancakes again?” He asked Belle.

“I’m afraid it’s just cereal today.” She handed him a bowl. “You have everything ready for school?”

“I just have to pack my lunch after breakfast.”

“Alright.”

Gold came down a few minutes later.

“Ah, ready for school.” He smiled at Gideon. “That is good to hear. You’ll be going with Belle.”

“Are you sure you’ll be alright, Papa?”

“Yes, I’ll be fine.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll check in on him for you.” She smiled at Gold, hoping he wouldn’t protest, especially around Gideon.

Gladis was still taking over at the library, though Belle planned on popping in. However, she wanted to bring Gold some lunch. She was still rather worried about how little he was eating. Shouldn’t he have gotten back to his usual self by now?

When breakfast had been eaten and Gideon was ready to go, Belle drove him to school and dropped him off with a wave goodbye. It felt special dropping him off at school. Something quite like a parent would do.

Belle did not like the idea of leaving Gold alone. Most certainly not, indeed. But she drove herself back to her apartment as she told him she’d do. It felt nice to be back but also a little strange. She’d gotten rather used to Gold’s house in the past few days, comfortable even. She knew she’d be worrying about Gold all day and would have to talk to Gladis about how they’d figure out the next few days.

She came into the library, and Gladis was glad for her help. Some people stopped to ask Belle if she was alright. Belle assured them she was, and no matter how much they pried, she didn’t reveal any more about what happened, telling them it was a private matter.

Belle left Gladis in charge for lunch, deciding to bring Gold a sandwich. She didn’t care if he opposed it; whether he liked it or not, she was coming. Sure enough, when Belle knocked at his door and he opened it, Gold insisted she shouldn’t have come.

“I wanted to make sure you ate something.”

“I assure you, Miss French. I can make something to eat for myself.”

She missed hearing her name on his lips. “Well, I made some sandwiches, and I hate to see them go to waste.”

He sighed. “Very well.” He then led her to the dining room.

Belle felt pleased that he’d let her in and accepted her help. She walked rather cheerfully towards the table before noticing Gold clutching his chest rather tightly.

“Are you alright, Mr. Gold.” Panic set in, and she rushed over to him with concern.

“I’m fine!”

He raised his hand to stop her from approaching him, stepping back. Only, as he did, he lost his footing, and his cane fell over with a clang. Gold managed to catch himself with the back of the chair. Belle was alarmed by his reaction and slowly went to reach for his cane, offering it back to him.

“I’m fine,” He snatched it back, pain in his voice.

She wanted to pull his chair out, but he already was, and she took a step back, giving him space.

“I don’t need your sympathies,” he hissed as he sat down.

She was trying not to take his nastiness personally. Clearly, he was going through something. She chose to ignore him as she rounded the table and began to take out her containers to take the sandwiches out.

“I’m sorry for snapping.” He said slowly as she placed a sandwich on a plate before him.

“It’s alright.” She assured him with a smile.

“I just…”

“You don’t like feeling like a burden.” She recalled.

“Yes.” He wrung his hand around his cane. “I don’t like feeling…incapable.”

She hummed quietly, understanding now. This was more than just about Gold’s heart attack. This was about his limp.

“I imagine no one wants to feel incapable.” She replied as gently as possible.

He wasn’t meeting her eyes, still staring at his cane.

“Dr. Whale said you should be feeling back to your normal self, perhaps within a week.”

Gold nodded slowly.

“Now, will you at least eat?” She pushed his plate towards him.

He looked slowly over at her before turning to face the table and looking down at his sandwich.

“I’m sorry, Belle. That I brought you into this all.”

“Mr. Gold, I will not have you apologizing for having a heart attack. Okay?”

He glanced up at her.

“Eat.” She encouraged him.

He picked up the sandwich and took a tentative bite.

“It shouldn’t have been you.” He was shaking his head, putting down his sandwich. “I should have other friends.”

“What did I say?” She glared him down.

He was staring at her again. Suddenly, she felt nervous under his gaze.

“But why are you helping me?” He asked.

“Because it’s the right thing to do. Not because I’m Gideon’s mother and the only other person you know. Or because I feel sorry for you. Because it’s the right thing to do, and my mother raised me to do the right thing. And besides, I want us to be friends, and that’s what friends do. They look after you while you are sick.”

“Friends.” He tried the word slowly in his mouth.

“Well, I hope at least.” She felt nervous again, folding her hands over. “I mean, if you’d like to be. If I could continue to be a part of Gideon’s life, that is.”

“Don’t worry, Miss French. I wouldn’t take that from you or Gideon. And I think I could try to be friends. Only… I’m not particularly good at it.”

“Well, I am.” She smiled, feeling a flicker of hope. “Why don’t we start with your name?” She dared to pry.

He looked almost like he wanted to run.

“Is it really that hard, Mr. Gold, to tell me your name?”

He ducked his head. “Rupert.” He uttered it so softly that Belle almost missed it.

“Rupert? That isn’t so bad. I quite like it.”

His eyes slowly met hers.

“Suits you.” She took him in again, under the knowledge of his name. It did suit him.

“Why don’t you like people to know?”

“I prefer formalities.”

“That might be why you don’t have any friends.” She tried to joke lightly. “How can you be friends with anyone when they don’t even know your name?”

“But people might try to take advantage of me.”

“Why?” She took a bite of her sandwich, hoping he hadn’t forgotten about his.

“For my money.” He looked off. So he was rich then.

“That might be true. But it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give people a chance.”

Gold didn’t respond; instead, he took a tentative bite of his sandwich. Belle hoped he’d give her a chance at least.

“Why did you want to become a librarian?” He asked after. She felt happy at such a personal question. It showed her he was trying.

“My mother instilled a love for books in me from a young age. I spent almost all my time in the Storybrooke library. It was always my childhood dream to become a librarian. And even as I grew up, my love for books stayed with me. After mother died and father became…” she trailed off for a short while. “Well, all I wanted to do was get away. I forgot about my dreams of becoming a librarian for a time. But then Gideon…” She wasn’t going to go into that, not now. “Then I wanted to come back again, to become a librarian.”

“And you like it here, the job?”

“Oh yes. Very much so.” She took another bite of her sandwich, encouraging him to do so as well. “What about you,” She asked in turn. “Do you like your job?”

“It’s alright.” He replied. “I can’t imagine doing anything else. It’s all I have ever known. It suits me well.”

Belle nodded slowly. There were more things she wanted to know about Gideon in particular. But would it hurt to know? She could feel Gold’s eyes on her, studying her. It put her off balance. What sort of things did he want to know about her, if anything?

Slowly, Gold finished off his sandwich, and she was relieved.

“Well,” She collected her plate and got up. “I’m to pick up Gideon at three, correct?”

“Yes.”

“I’ll be back then. We could go for another walk. And I’m making supper, I insist.”

-

Belle returned to the library, helping out till she had to pick up Gideon. He had something to show his father in his hands. He was very excited to show it to Gold when they returned to his home.

 “Papa, I have something for you.” He handed the paper over. “All the kids at school wrote me a letter. Well, it’s for you.” He handed it to his father.

Belle dared to come close to spy a look. It was a ‘get well’ card filled with signatures and doodles from the kids at Gideon’s school. She smiled at the lovely gesture.

“Oh, that’s lovely, Gideon.” Gold smiled at his son.

Chapter Text

The week continued, and Belle drove and picked Gideon up from school each day. She still insisted on making dinner for Gold and Gideon, though she didn’t come by for lunch anymore. It was clear to her that Gold saw her helping as her feeling sorry for him. She did want to respect his boundaries as well. Gideon always offered his assistance with helping Belle make dinner. Gold didn’t insist too much on helping, usually preoccupying himself with a book in the living room while waiting. Belle would often sneak a glance over at him to spy what book he was reading. But if they ever caught eyes, she’d quickly look away.

While making dinners, Gideon would talk about his day at school. Belle asked Gideon more questions to learn about him. It was everything she dreamed of. Of cooking alongside her child, hearing about his day. Only, she knew this was temporary. Soon, Gold (Rupert, she reminded herself of his first name) would get better, and she’d only get to see Gideon maybe once a week at most. She tried not to think about that too much.

Belle encouraged them to go on walks, and Gideon would hold his father’s hand to offer support. Gold was eating well again, his appetite back. It brought relief to Belle. He was looking better too, with more colour in his face. Belle felt assured Gold would get better in no time.

-

“Miss French.” Gold caught her attention as Belle was doing dishes after making dinner for them on Friday.

“Belle,” she reminded him, she wouldn’t have him calling her ‘Miss French’ anymore.

“Belle,” her name still sounded unsure on his lips. But it made her smile.

“I would like to go back to my shop tomorrow if you care to drive me.”

“It’d be my delight.”

/

As it was Saturday, Gideon came along with Gold to his shop. Gold’s shop was always closed on Weekends to allow Gold to look after Gideon. But he wanted to go back to work. Whale assured him that he should be able to drive again. It felt strange having Belle drive them. It had been strange having her in their house, strange but nice. Gold would miss her, even if he wouldn’t admit it. Gideon would miss her surely even more. Gideon knew it was coming, that Belle wouldn’t be coming over every day anymore. He knew that’s what would happen when Gold went back to work.

They reached Gold’s shop, Belle parking beside his Cadillac. Belle got out as if on instinct with Gideon and Gold, Gideon quickly taking her hand. Gold stared at their joined hands, remembering how well they got along while making dinners in his home. They were getting closer indeed. It was strange to realize that he didn’t feel the fear of her taking Gideon from him anymore.

“Come on.” Gold urged them along, pulling his keys out of his pocket. Luckily, it had been in his pocket when he’d had his heart attack.

Gold opened the shop’s back door, showing Gideon and Belle in after him. The shop felt strangely cold and abandoned as they walked in. Gold flicked the power on, and the lights gave some life to the shop.

“Gideon, could you go check the front for me, please?” Gold asked, and his boy went running off.

“Do you need any help, Mr. Gold?” Belle asked gently.

“No, thank you, though.”

She nodded, her face almost falling. “I expect you won’t be needing me to cook dinners anymore.”

“No, I won’t bother you by asking that of you anymore. You have your own life to get back to.”

“Honestly, Mr. Gold, it’s fine.”

He twisted his cane, nervous.

“Everything looks fine, Papa.” Gideon had returned.

“Thank you, Gideon.” Gold pulled his son to his side.

Gideon took his hand, looking up desperately at him. He wanted something, Gold could tell.

“What is it, Gideon?” He asked.

“Well, I thought we could go out for dinner. A celebration, now that you’re all better.”

“That sounds like a wonderful idea, Gideon.” As much as Gold despised Granny’s, the least he could do for everything Belle had done was take her out for a free meal.

“We could go to Tony’s.”

Gold froze at the suggestion. Gideon liked Tony’s for its spaghetti. And even though it was expensive, the only reason they didn’t go so often was because it wasn’t exactly a kid’s restaurant. It was the kind of restaurant one took people to for a date.

“Tony’s, I don’t think I’ve heard of it.” Belle’s voice broke Gold out of his shock. “Is it new?”

“Yes.” He stammered.

No, he couldn’t bring her there. He was trying to stick to the boundaries he hadn’t set.

“Please, Papa.” Gideon pulled Gold’s hand, making him wonder for a second if Gideon was trying to plan something—a ploy of sorts. Only, Gold was sure Gideon didn’t notice how intimate the restaurant was and only really liked its food. Of course, a setup wasn’t exactly outside the realm of possibilities for Gideon. Gold would talk to him after.

“It’s nice,” Gold told Belle slowly.

 “Should I dress up?” She perked up, looking almost excited.

His eyes couldn’t help but gaze over her, her beautiful spring dress. “You always look lovely.” He suddenly said, a blush immediately gracing his cheeks in embarrassment. It seemed he’d already forgotten all about those boundaries he was trying to stick to. Gold quickly broke his eyes away from her, looking back down to his cane.

“Thank you, Mr. Gold.” When Gold looked back up, he found a blush on her own cheeks. Only, he was sure he saw it incorrectly.  

Gold twisted his cane.

“You’d like to go then?” He asked carefully.

“Oh, yes. That sounds wonderful.”

“Good.” Gold nodded.

“I leave you to your work then.” She bowed her head slightly. “And if you need anything, you know where I’ll be.”

“Yes, thank you again, Miss French—ah, Belle.” He corrected himself. “I’ll pick you up, say, around five?”

“Yes, that sounds perfect.” She turned her head to Gideon then.

“See you later, Gideon.”

“Bye, Belle.” He waved, and she walked out the back door.

Once alone with Gideon, Gold shot him a glare. “Tony’s, really?”

“I like their spaghetti.” He replied quickly.

“Yes, I remember.” Gold set about walking to his desk.

“You’re not nervous about going out to dinner with Belle, are you papa?”

“Maybe.” He admitted. “I only hope you’re not up to anything.” He set his glare back on Gideon.

Gideon looked almost shocked by the suggestion. “I just thought it’d be nice. I promise, papa. Besides, you’ve never been interested in anyone, ever. I know that.”

Gold hummed.

“But if you were interested in Belle.” His voice rose full of hopeful implications.

“Don’t get started now.” Gold waved a warning finger Gideon’s way.

/

Gladis had still been assisting Belle in running the library. Belle let her know that today would be the last day she should require her assistance. Belle couldn’t think of the last time she’d gone out to a nice restaurant. Sure, Belle sometimes went to Granny’s, but that certainly didn’t count. Just in case, she almost wanted to change, but alas, she barely had the time before Gladis told her that Gold was asking for her at the front desk with Gideon.

Sure enough, Belle found him standing near the library’s front door, Gideon at his side, looking almost more handsome in the same suit he’d been wearing that morning. Nerves set in again, and she quickly said her goodbyes to Gladis.

“Miss French, I hope we haven’t interrupted your work.” Gold spoke.

“Oh, not at all. Gladis will look after everything for the last hour. Shall we go?” She clung to her purse a little tighter.

“Yes.” He led his way out to his Cadillac, holding the door open for her.

“Thank you.” She slipped into the passenger side, blushing slightly from the gentlemanly gesture.

The drive wasn’t too far, and Gold helped her out of the car before Gideon took her hand and led her to the restaurant. Once inside, they waited for a hostess to appear. A young girl came over in a skimpy black dress that made Belle feel sorry for her.

“Table for three,” Gold told her.

The hostess looked over her map. “Right this way.” She grabbed up some menus and led the way.

The restaurant lighting was dim, the decor fancy. The place reminded Belle of the places she’d been taken on past dates. The hostess had paused before a table.

“Will this do?” She asked.

“Yes, thank you,” Gold assured her.

The hostess placed the menus down before disappearing off again. Gideon moved to sit at the far end, and suddenly, Gold was pulling out a chair to offer Belle. It had her blushing again, but she sat down gracefully. As Gideon picked up his menu, Belle glanced around the restaurant, noticing the table closest to them was a couple holding hands across the table.

Belle felt her blush worsen, wondering why in the world Gold had brought her here, somewhere clearly so romantic. Her brain rationalized that it wasn’t his idea but Gideon’s. It hadn’t been meant as a romantic gesture at all, and she wouldn’t think of it like that if she could try.

Despite everything, her eyes dared to look at Gold, who looked very handsome. She felt a sudden urge to try his name.

“I must say, Rupert, you are looking much better.”

“Rupert?” Gideon looked up, confused. “Dad told you his name? He never tells anyone.”

Gold looked embarrassed, but Belle smiled. She had won him over then.

“Let’s not make a big thing out of it.” Gold rushed to say.

“Belle, look.” Gideon was showing her the menu. “If you’re still hungry after, we could get a cake for dessert.”

“Oh, that does look delicious.”

A waiter introduced himself and asked what they’d like to drink.

“Could I get you some wine, Mr. Gold?” He asked. “Only the best for you and your lady friend.”

That brought the blush back to Belle’s cheek, and she could see Gold looked flustered as well by the implications.

“No, no.” Gold rushed to say, flustered. “Not tonight, thank you.”

The waiter hummed and walked away. Belle could feel the other patrons’ eyes on them. Gold’s eyes, however, were anywhere but on her. Gideon appeared unaffected, solely focused on his menu.

“Belle,” Gold started slowly. “People know you’re Gideon’s mother, correct?”

“I haven’t told anyone.” She shook her head.

“Why not?” his voice cracked, and Belle wondered if maybe she’d done something wrong.

“I didn’t think you wanted anyone to know. And besides, it wasn’t their business.”

“I see.” He mulled it over. “It’s only, I think we’ve given people the wrong idea.”

Oh, yes, she could see it now. Marco’s assumption came back to her. Was that really what everyone thought? Maybe she should have said something, Only, she hadn’t quite been ready. And now, here they were at a fancy restaurant, clearly meant for romantic evenings. Of course, it looked like they were on a date. It made her blush again. No, she couldn’t think of that. It’d complicate things if she did. But there was some small part that wanted to flirt with the idea.

“What wrong impression?” Gideon asked, breaking her out of her daze.

“Nothing,” Gold replied quickly.

Belle still felt hot in the cheeks. It’d been so long since she’d been on a date. She had one high school sweetheart and a few flirtations in her first years of college. Then Grant. And well after she was hesitant to get back into anything. She always felt she’d be cheating on her son if she started a new life without him.

“I don’t mind if you tell people about Gideon. But, of course, that’s your choice.” Gold told her.

She nodded slowly, glad when the waiter returned with their drinks, asking what they’d like to eat. Belle asked for the spaghetti that Gideon had. Thankfully, the food was brought to them rather quickly, providing them with some distraction. Gideon provided the conversation for the meal, and Belle began to feel comfortable again. Gold still avoided her eyes for most of the meal, but she was okay with that. They didn’t have any room for dessert after their meal, and while Gideon was sad not to have dessert, he agreed he wouldn’t be able to eat any.

Gold insisted on paying, insistent that it was the least he could do after everything she’d done for him. Belle couldn’t exactly say no to that. After paying, Gold drove Belle back to her apartment, and Gold helped her out; she hid her blush again.

“Shall we do a walk tomorrow morning?” Gold asked it like a question.

“Yes, that’d be nice.” She smiled at him.

Gold nodded. “Well, I wish you a good night then, Belle.” Her name on his lips did start her heart a flutter.

He made it to the other side of the car, and Belle leaned over to Gideon’s window. “Good night, Gideon. Sleep well.” With a final wave, they drove away.

Chapter Text

“Morning, Ruby.” Belle sat down at the bar of the diner.

“Good morning!” Ruby smiled warmly at Belle. “What will it be?” She pulled out her notepad.

“I’ll just have the breakfast sandwich. I’m meeting Gideon and Gold at ten.” She quickly checked her watch for the time.

Ruby nodded before she was off again. Belle picked up the paper on the counter to scan over.

“There you are.” Ruby had returned with the sandwich.  “How’s Mr. Gold?” She asked it slowly, carefully.

Belle felt almost flustered that Ruby would ask her that question. “Well, I should think.” Had Ruby known of Gold’s heart attack? “Ruby, do you think we’re dating?” She felt nervous to ask it.

“Well, I’ve never seen Gold with anyone other than his son. The whole town kind of thinks you are.”

“Right.” She nodded slowly.

“Are you dating then?”

“No,” she shook her head.

“I had wondered how Gold would have managed to have, well… Never mind.” She shook her head quickly. “You had just moved here, and Gold doesn’t talk to anyone. But then I thought maybe you knew each other before. Granny thinks he lived in Boston before he came here. That’s where you were for school, right?”

“It was. But we didn’t know each other.”

“You’re not into something bad, are you?” She asked in concern.

“No. No. I’m…” Belle struggled to say it. “I’m Gideon’s mother.”

“Oh! His mother.” She worked it over in her brain. “Wait… you and Gold… back in the day?”

“No!” Belle stopped Ruby while she was ahead. “Not like that. It was some guy from school. Gold adopted Gideon.”

“Oh, I see. I don’t think I knew Gideon was adopted.”

Belle wasn’t sure how public Gold made it. But it seemed he wasn’t very social at all in town.

“So he really doesn’t talk to anyone then?”

“Not really. He’s always kind of scared me a bit. But he’s really nice to Gideon, so I could tell he was a good person.”

“He is a very nice person,” Belle assured her.

Ruby leaned a little over the counter.  “Do you like him?” She asked lowly, a smirk on her lips.

Belle flushed again, quickly darting her gaze away. “Ruby, I…I couldn’t.”

“Oh, so you do like him.” Ruby was smiling even more.

“I don’t know. It’d only complicate things. And I don’t want to do that.”

Ruby nodded slowly, leaning away.

“Gold has always been alone?” She dared to ask.

“Just him and Gideon, as far as I can remember. He is rather an imposing sort of person. Not very warm and welcoming, as I’m sure you’ve noted.”

“Do you remember when Gold came here?”

“No, I would have been young. It was probably ten years ago, maybe more than that. Can’t say.”

Belle hummed; it would fit.

“Granny would remember, though. She remembers everything.” Ruby made to leave then.

“Ruby, wait, one more thing. I know you were much younger before I left. But I remember you had all these plans to travel the world.”

“Never really got around to it. I’d still like to go one day. But I want to be here to look after Granny.”

Belle nodded, a smile forming on her lips. “I understand.”

“Enjoy your meal.” Ruby left then.

After finishing up her sandwich, Granny appeared at the front, checking in on the patrons of her diner.

“How’s your day been going so far, Granny?” Belle smiled at the older lady.

“Business could be better.” She muttered. “Is there something I could help you with?”

“Could I ask you about Mr. Gold? Do you remember when he moved here?”

“Clear as yesterday. I might be getting older. But this mind is still razor sharp.” She tapped her temple. “He came into the bed and breakfast, wearing one of those suits of his. I was wondering what a businessman like him was doing in a town like this. He ordered a room for one night, so I figured he was just passing through. Only, the next day, I saw him in town setting up that shop of his. He was a mystery to all of us and wouldn’t talk to anyone. No one knew him or where he came from. But one thing was clear; he had money.”

Belle nodded.

“I always felt like he must have been involved in something shady before, and that’s why he left and came here. But that’s just what I like to think.”

Belle knew how Granny’s mind liked to make up tall tales.

“I don’t know if I like the idea of a sweet young girl like you being involved with him.”

“We’re not exactly involved. And he’s very nice. A little shy and closed off, perhaps.”

Granny’s eyebrow raised, and Belle stopped herself.

“You just be careful, dear. Alright?”

“I will.” Belle assured her. “But one more thing, Granny. It’s always just been him and Gideon?”

Granny nodded. “Oh yes. Just him and his son. The only other person I’ve ever seen him get close to is you.”

-

Gideon led them to the pirate ship.

“The kids at school said that it’s going to be the last day it’s going to be here.” He told Belle, leading her by her hand. She liked having his hand in hers. It felt nice and intimate.

They approached the pirate ship, and a man stood by the ramp, taking a sip from a flask. When he noticed them approaching, he quickly hid it.

“Ah, here comes a young pirate if I’ve ever seen one.” He smiled at Gideon.

“Hi, is it true you’re leaving?” Gideon ran over to ask, letting go of Belle’s hand.

“It is. Alas, I have other waters to explore. But feel free to go on board, your father too.” He gestured awkwardly as Gold joined them.  

The captain’s gaze quickly fell on Belle, passing over her body. She didn’t particularly like how he looked at her, remembering how Keith had looked at her the same way. She felt a small bit of comfort as Gold came to her side. Gideon began to run up the stairs out of his excitement, and Gold moved to start after him.

“Watch the steps, sir.” The captain uttered under his breath. “I don’t want you to fall.”  It wasn’t said in a very considerate way, and Belle thought him extremely rude.

“I assure you, captain. I can walk up a couple of steps.” Gold gritted through his teeth, moving past him.

Belle felt a cold shiver over the captain’s words passing over her. She kept in step with Gold.

“I hate men like that,” Gold muttered, anger boiled under his surface.

“I can’t believe he would talk to you like that.”

“Nothing I haven’t experienced before.”

“You’ve had people treat you that way before? That’s terrible.” She could almost understand now, why he didn’t want her help before. He may have hesitated to ask for her help while recovering if people had treated him this way because of his limp. It wasn’t right.

They had reached the top of the ramp and were on the ship’s deck.

“Belle!” Gideon waved from where he stood at the ship’s wheel.

“Would you care for a tour?” The captain had followed them up.

“No, we’ll be alright, Captain.” Gold hissed at him.

The captain’s eyes passed over Belle again. She hugged her arms tightly around herself.

“Sorry for not introducing myself, my lady.” He gave a faux bow.  “Captain Killian Jones, a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“Is this what you do, sail around in an old ship and give kids tours?”

“I don’t just give kids tours. I also sail around the waters for fun. The ship might be old, but it still functions.”

“Belle, look!” Gideon called.

Belle looked over at Gold before climbing the stairs to Gideon, wanting to be far away from the Captain.

Gold waited on the deck, walking far away from the captain while Gideon showed Belle the steering wheel and other such things at the ship’s helm.

The captain had produced some wooden swords from the deck. “Young lad, if you like, I’ll teach you how to fight like a real man.” He called.

Gideon went running, and Belle followed him slowly down to the deck, finding herself pulled to Gold’s side as some form of comfort.

“Are you alright?” Gold asked as if noticing her demeanour.

“I don’t think I like him at all.” Belle said of the captain.

“I didn’t want Gideon to come here after the first time we came. Only, he was adamant about showing you.”

She hummed.

“What of you, sir? Care for a little duel?” The captain smirked at Gold as if teasing him.

Belle was liking him less and less. “I’m afraid we have to get going. We were going to feed the ducks.” She quickly spoke. “Thank you for letting us see your ship.”

Gideon pouted.

“You can keep the sword, lad,” The captain offered Gideon. “Have a nice day.”

Gold produced some money and passed it off to the captain before they left the ship.

“Didn’t you have fun?” Gideon asked them as they began to leave, seeming almost worried.

“Oh, yes, it was fun,” Belle assured him. “Only, I’d much rather feed the ducks than playfight.”

Gideon grumbled but didn’t say anything. When they arrived at the duck feed box, Gideon returned to his usual happy self.

“Maybe we could go out for dinner again.” He was suggesting. “Or maybe we could go over to your place this time.”

She’d be embarrassed to have them in her small apartment.

“I liked making food with you,” Gideon told her, his voice almost desperate to have more time with her.

“I did, too.” She smiled.

“Well, we can continue our Sunday morning walks together.” Gold spoke.

Belle was relieved; it wasn’t much, but it was something. She wouldn’t lose Gideon. Gideon didn’t seem too pleased but didn’t push further. Instead, he directed Belle’s attention back to the ducks and told her about things he was excited about at school the next week.

-

Belle was back at the library without Gladis’ assistance. She had been thinking of Gold again, worrying about how he was doing now that he was working again. For her brief lunch break, Belle thought of quickly popping in at his shop to check in on him. She wasn’t sure he would appreciate it, but it would help calm her.

So when lunch came, she walked over to Gold’s shop, heading inside. Above her, the bell rang, announcing her arrival. Gold was on the other side of the shop, perhaps setting something up.

“Miss French!” He was alarmed to see her; she couldn’t blame him. “I mean Belle.” She did really like hearing her name on his lips.

“Good afternoon, Rupert.” She should be comfortable with his name if he were comfortable using hers. However, it did certainly feel strange.

He blinked at her, looking a bit unsure of her using his name, but he didn’t look upset, so that was something.

“I thought I might check in on you during my lunch break. Make sure you’re alright. I hope you don’t mind.”

“I assure you, Belle, I’m quite alright.” He twisted his hand on his cane. “Though I do appreciate you checking in on me.”
 She smiled at that.

“But you really shouldn’t be concerned about me. You should get back to your work, your life.” He nodded towards the door.

“Alright.” She caved, almost feeling disappointed. “Well, I’m glad you’re doing well then.” She thought about making to leave. “You got Gideon to school alright.”

“Yes.”

“That is good. I guess I’ll get going then. See you Sunday for our walk.”

“Yes, see you then.”

/

It was Tuesday, and Gold felt unusually lonely and bored at the shop. He kept looking at his watch, noting how close to lunch it was. He wondered if Belle would grace him with her presence again. Did he even dare to hope? No, he shouldn’t. But as the seconds loudly ticked by, Gold felt he might be driven mad if he didn’t go for a walk or something. He flipped his sign closed; it wasn’t like anyone was likely to come in anyway. It was why he liked his shop, because he was left most often undisturbed. He didn’t have to talk to many people. With the money he had, he probably could have afforded not to work. But he still needed something to occupy his time and mind.

Gold found himself walking towards the library and began thinking of Belle again. An image of her reading to a crowd of kids popped into his mind. He wasn’t sure where it came from, for he’d never actually witnessed her leading story time. But he found the image suited her. He wondered how she was doing and if she would mind him stopping by.

Gold was already opening the library door before he could convince himself that he should maintain boundaries. All thoughts of boundaries left his head as he spotted her behind the front desk. She was beautiful.

“Mr. Gold.” She smiled as if pleased to see him.

“Belle.” He still almost didn’t feel right using her name, but it was so beautiful, and the way she smiled made it worth it. He tipped his head in greeting, approaching her desk.

“What are you doing here, Mr. Gold?” She was smiling away.

“For a book, of course.” He replied quickly. It was an easy enough excuse. “It’s slow at the shop, and I thought I might pick something up.”

“Anything particular in mind?”

He hadn’t thought of anything at all.

“I’ve noticed that you’re one for the classics.”

He didn’t know she’d paid that much attention to him while she was at their home.

“Dickens, perhaps?” She continued.

“I think I might like a mystery novel.” It was his guilty pleasure.

“Ah, Sherlock Holmes then.”

“I’m afraid I’ve read them all.”

“Then I’ll find you something new.” Belle was quick on her feet, beckoning him to follow her. She moved so gracefully through the stalks of books, easily navigating her way around.

“Here you are, mystery novels. You have your Agatha Christie and Arthur Conan Doyle. Have you tried Dorothy L. Sayers?”

“I have, but I don’t think I’ve read them all.”

Belle was pulling books out.

“Don’t tell me you’re the sort that can only read a book once,” She glared at him.

“No, not at all. Though I do like finding new books. Mysteries especially.”

She nodded in understanding. “Do you recognize any of these?” She held the books out for him.

“I’m afraid I can’t remember what ones I’ve read before. Won’t be able to tell till I start reading them.” He thought it over. “I suppose I could lend a few out. I don’t care much if I’ve read one before. I appreciate your help.” He took the books from her.

“My pleasure. Is there anything else you’d like?”

“I think I’ll be alright.”

“This one’s my favourite.” She tapped the top of one book. “Take your time. I’ll be at the front desk when you’re ready.”

Gold only spent a few seconds more wandering the aisles, the smell of her perfume still around him. He really shouldn’t be thinking about her. Only, it was hard not to. He started towards the front desk, and she greeted him with a smile again. Gold quickly made his way outside for fresh air. He thought maybe he shouldn’t be anywhere near her.

-

Gold was walking back to the library only a day later, intending to drop some of the books off at the outside drop slot. Gold dared to look inside and noticed a man at Belle’s desk, leaning over it. That set Gold’s alarm bells off, remembering that sleazy man who accosted her the other day. He started in, his cane tapping loudly.

“Mr. Gold.” Her eyes were on him, smiling wide.

The man at the desk turned, and Gold noticed him holding a boy’s hand.

“Mr. Gold!” The man was startled at the sight of him.

“Have you come to return your books already?” Belle chuckled.

“Just the ones I’ve read.” He slowly replied.

“Here you are.” She passed the books over to the father and his toddler son. “Bye.” She waved a hand at the young boy, who flapped his hand in return. It was the sweetest of gestures.

The father took the books and nodded to Gold before heading to the door. Gold did not bother to hold it open for him.

“I can’t believe you’ve finished the books already, Mr. Gold.” Belle set about organizing a pile of books on her desk as he approached it.

“Only two. One I had read before and remember it being too easy of a mystery to solve. The other I read in a day. It doesn’t particularly get busy at the shop.”

“I remember when I could finish a book in a day. I miss those days.” She smiled at him.

Gold looked towards the door once more. “That man wasn’t bothering you, was he?” He asked, the bristling urge to protect her surfacing.

“Oh no.” She rushed to say. “You don’t need to be concerned, Mr. Gold. Everyone is lovely to me here. I haven’t seen Keith since you scared him off, thankfully.”

“That is good to hear.”

“Did you file a report to the police?”

“I told Graham, yes.” He nodded his head. Graham had told him that Kieth had done something similar before and was watching him closely. It was a small relief.

“Well, will you be looking for some new books then?” Belle asked.

“What would you recommend?”

Chapter Text

Gold was trying to stay away from the library. Only, he found himself quite enjoying his brief conversations with Belle. She was warm and delightful. She gave him the best recommendations and seemed keen to talk to him about the books she lent him. Gold, in turn, felt almost excited to talk to her about her recommendations. When he caught a whiff of her perfume, he’d have to remind himself of boundaries. That she was too young for him. That she probably did not and would never view him that way.

He left her alone for Saturday, and they had their walk with Gideon again on Sunday morning. While Gold may have been seeing Belle throughout the week, Gideon had not. The boy was happy to see her again, telling Belle enthusiastically of everything that happened during his week. As Gold watched them, a thought came into his head, one Gideon might quite like.

“Belle,” He called her attention. “I was thinking maybe you might like to have Gideon over one weekend.”

Belle seemed shocked, but pleased.

“Please, Belle. Could I?” Gideon grasped her hand suddenly, looking at her with pleading desperate eyes.

“I don’t really have  a room for you to stay in.” She sadly realized. “But I could figure something out, I’m sure.” She looked up at Gold, asking him if he was sure.

He was and nodded to her, giving her reassurance.

“It would be nice, something I’d look forward to.” She grasped Gideon’s hand in return.

Gideon smiled wide.

“You’ll need time to prepare, I’m sure.” Gold spoke. “Would this weekend work, or two weeks from now?”

“Two weeks!” Gideon looked to Gold, distraught.

“Belle has to prepare.” Gold insisted.

“I think I’ll be fine for next weekend,” Belle assured him, making Gideon smile once again.

/

Belle was almost shocked by Gold’s offer for Gideon to sleep over. She thought they were nowhere near that level of trust yet, for her to spend time alone with Gideon. But she guessed she had while he was recovering in the hospital. But a whole weekend, at her place. It was a big step, that was for sure.

Belle had bought a roll-up mattress to set up in her small living room on which Gideon could sleep. It wasn’t much, but she knew the young boy would be unbothered. She had thought about giving him her bed and her sleeping on the floor. Only, that didn’t appeal to her at all particularly.

Belle had taken off Saturday, and Gold would drop Gideon off in the morning and pick him up Sunday afternoon. Belle was a mix of nerves and excitement. She met them outside her apartment building, not about to force Gold to walk up the many stairs.

“Here’s all his things.” Gold handed Gideon’s bag to her. He then turned to Gideon. “Now, you be good and have fun.”

“I promise.” Gideon groaned but then hugged him goodbye. Gold lingered a little longer before letting go and returning to his car.

Belle brought Gideon’s bags upstairs, showing him the cot he’d be sleeping on.

“I know it’s not much, but it’s only one night.”

“It’s okay.” Gideon assured her. “I’m just excited to get to sleep over.”

“So am I.” She smiled at him. “So, what do you want to do?”

“Do you have any pictures from when you were young?” He asked tentatively.

“I do.” Belle was quick to action, showing Gideon to her room. He looked around curiously, politely not touching anything.

“Here we are,” She found her photo albums in her closet. “Why don’t we take these to the living room?”

Gideon followed her back out, and they sat down on the couch beside each other. Belle opened the first of her photo albums.

“This is my mother.” The first picture was of her mother when she was pregnant with Belle.

“She looks just like you,” Gideon exclaimed. Belle felt a warmth, to be compared to her mother.

“Here’s the day I was born. Me, in the hospital.”

They flipped through, Belle retelling her memories from the photos. There was a lot from her childhood and less as she got older. She had also put some keepsakes in the album, like her mother’s funeral processions.

“It must have been really hard when your mother died,” Gideon said slowly.

“It was.” Belle turned the paper over. “I was very close with my mother, and it was very hard on me. My father was never the same person afterwards either.”

Gideon flipped through some more photos. Soon, they became Belle’s time at university, her first roommates. There was a singular photo of Grant. He looked nice in the photo, Belle leaning against his chest, and he held her close.

“That’s your father.” She pointed.

“You have a photo of him?” Gideon sounded surprised.

“I’m not like most people who throw away photos after a bad breakup. There was some part of me that loved him for a time. Though I doubt he ever really truly loved me back.”

Gideon’s face fell a little.

“But maybe that was for the best. He wouldn’t have made a very nice boyfriend. So I revealed his true self rather quickly.”

“Do you think I look like him?”

“You have his eyes. But either than that, no.” She continued flipping the pages till they were all caught up. “And that’s my life in a nutshell.” She smiled at him.

“I know it’s your day off, but I wanted to know what you do at the library for work.”

“Oh, well, I could show you. I’m sure Gladis would appreciate the help.”

They went down to the library, Belle telling Gladis she would show Gideon what they did. Gideon followed her around and listened intently, watching, enraptured. He was eager to lend a hand and assist wherever needed. When Belle had him sitting behind the counter helping sign out books for the customers, the customers all smiled at him and praised how well he was doing.

“Your father will be so proud.” They told Gideon.

Gideon was happy to continue helping Belle out all day. Finally, when they closed the library, Belle began thinking about dinner.

“Now, I do have some things in my fridge if you want to make something for dinner together. But I thought we might like to try the Asian restaurant around the corner. I haven’t been yet.”

“Alright.” Gideon replied cheerfully.

They walked to the restaurant. Gideon apparently had never been.

“Papa prefers making meals then going out for food. He says it’s healthier.” Gideon told her.

“Well, he could be right.”

Belle picked something out, and Gideon chose the same thing. They found themselves a little table by the windows to eat their food, Gideon looking excited to try it.

Belle felt warm and happy, having had a wonderful day with Gideon. But only a few bites into his meal, it quickly became clear that Gideon was having a reaction to the food. At first, he started scratching at his neck, barely causing any alarm in Belle. But then his neck reddened, and he stopped eating, struggling to draw in a breath.

“Are you alright, Gideon?” She asked, sudden panic rising.

He struggled to draw in a breath, and she was in full-on panic mode. She helped Gideon from his chair as he was struggling more for breath, his throat most likely closing up.

“Help! Someone call the ambulance!” She rushed to Gideon’s side, trying to remember the first aid she’d taken back in University. What did she have to do? They didn’t have an EpiPen or anything.

The few other patrons had rushed to assist, someone calling for an ambulance.

“He’s having an allergic reaction.” A man rushed to Gideon’s side, rushing him to sit on the floor. “I have an EpiPen.”

 Belle was nodding, tears forming in her eyes. She felt so scared, at a loss of what to do.

The man pressed the injector into Gideon’s thigh, and slowly, he appeared to be able to breathe again. Belle was rubbing his back, comforting him. Outside, the ambulance alarms were sounding.

“Don’t worry, I’ll go with you.” She assured Gideon.

Everything had been a blur, but Belle was sitting in the hospital room they’d put Gideon in. The doctors had assured her he should get better, and they’d run some more tests in the morning. Belle wrung her hands, tears falling as they left. She wiped her eyes, wishing she’d been able to hold back her tears a little while longer so Gideon wouldn’t see.

“Sorry, Gideon.” She sniffled. “How are you feeling?”

“Not well.” He admitted. “I want papa.”

“I understand.” She brushed back his hair. “I’ll call him.” She stepped out of the room to do so, her hands trembling on her phone.

“Belle,” Gold’s voice came panicked from the other side.

“It’s Gideon. He had an allergic reaction.” She was trying hard to control the tremor in her voice.

“Is he alright!?”

“He’s fine. We’re at the hospital now.”

“I’ll be right over.”

/

Gold felt in a haze as he drove to the hospital. He was shouting at the staff the moment he arrived. Whale arrived to comfort him. Only, Gold wanted to push him away and order him to tell him where his son was.

“Gideon’s alright, Mr. Gold, he’s right this way.”

Finally.

Gold was led into a room, finding Gideon on a cot. He rushed to his son’s side, instantly grabbing him.

“Oh, Gideon.” He kissed his boy’s head, relieved. “You’re okay.”

“I’m fine, Papa.” Gideon pushed away. “I’m fine.”

Gold still felt like he couldn’t breathe. He wanted to hold Gideon tight, close, and never let him go. He should have never let him go.

“He’s had an allergic reaction.” Whale spoke. “Went into anaphylactic shock. We’ll have to run some tests tomorrow to find out what he’s allergic to. Luckily, the ambulance was called in time, and someone was able to inject epinephrine. You’re welcome to take him home for the night.”
 Gold was most certainly going to do that.

“Papa, can I sleep over at Belle’s another time?” Gideon asked hesitantly.

Gold suddenly remembered her, and for the first time, he noticed she was in the room, standing there looking utterly distraught. He vaguely recalled her being sitting when he’d rush in.

“I…” He stuttered. He should have never let him go. “We’ll discuss it later. I’d just like to ask Dr. Whale something.” He started back out of the room.

Whale was standing at the front desk, and Gold headed towards him.

“Whale, how did this happen!?” He demanded as if it’d been all the doctor’s fault. Shouldn’t he, after all, have been able to warn Gold about this sort of thing?

“Mr. Gold, people can be allergic to anything. One can go years before realizing they’re allergic to seafood simply because they never eaten it before. And unfortunately, allergies can pop up at any age. But I assure you we will pinpoint whatever caused the reaction, and then we can supply Gideon with an EpiPen if he suffers from a similar reaction.”

“Right.” Gold was drawing in his breath. His head was spinning. This was all feeling too much like when Neal… No, he wouldn’t even let his mind go there.

“He’ll be fine, Mr. Gold.” Whale patted his shoulder before heading off. It was hardly a comfort.

“Mr. Gold.” Belle’s voice came behind him, unsure.

“I’m…” She stuttered. He turned slowly to her. She looked like she’d been crying and was about to again.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Gold. I’m his mother, and I almost… He almost…” She broke down into sobs then, covering her face with his hands. It was very alarming, and not at all like the few of her tears Gold had witnessed before.

His heart suddenly went out to her, and an unsure hand went to her shoulder as if trying to offer her comfort of some sort. Suddenly, she was falling into him, head pressing against his chest. Gold startled at it but didn’t pull away or anything. Instead, he let her cry, unsure what else he should do. His arm came to her back as if to comfort her.

He thought he should be angry with her. A past him might have blamed her for the whole thing. Yet the rational side of his brain realized it was not her fault at all. And clearly, she was already quite broken up about it.

“I’m sorry.” She was pulling herself away from him, wiping her face. “I understand if you never want me to see Gideon again.”

“No.” He replied quickly. “Belle, this wasn’t your fault. You understand that, right? We didn’t know. None of us.”

She was still sniffling, wiping her face some more, head down. “I feel like I should have known. Mother’s instinct or something.”

He didn’t know what to supply in response to that.

“Belle, it’s not your fault. I assure you.” He offered. “You did the best you could. You got the help you needed. Might have saved Gideon’s life.”

“Hardly, I panicked while everyone else did the work.” She was sobbing again.

Gold had a flicker of a memory of Neal laying in the hospital bed, tubes and cables all connected to him. Gold begging the doctors if he could do anything. He was his father; there had to be something he could do.

“We’ll take him to the hospital tomorrow morning. Get him looked at.” Gold’s hand moved up and down her arm of its own free will. “But please, Belle, I won’t have you thinking this was your fault.”

She nodded slowly, wiping her face again. Gold pulled his pocket square out and suddenly found himself drying her face. He thought she was too lovely to cry.

“You don’t deserve to feel like this. It’s a horrible feeling, I know.” He told her softly, offering his pocket square over.

“Thank you, Mr. Gold.” She took it, wiping her face. “I hope this all hasn’t upset Gideon too much.”

“He’s a strong boy. I’m sure by next weekend, he’ll be up for having a sleepover at your place again.”

“Are you really sure?” She looked at him in slight disbelief.

Gold nodded slowly. Strangely, as much as he wanted to hold Gideon close, to protect him, he did trust her, even after this. It was a surprise indeed.

-

Gideon was feeling much better the next morning after sleeping back in Gold’s bed and having been put to bed by his father. On the way to the hospital, he told Gold that he didn’t want it ever to happen again, and the experience had been rather scary.

“I was glad Belle was there, though.” He told him.

“Me too.” Gold agreed.

“You’ll let me sleep over again, right Papa?” He asked, desperate, hopeful.

“Don’t worry, we’ve already talked about it. We agreed to try again next week. How does that sound?”

“Really good.” Gideon smiled. “I want to show her my photo albums. Do you think I could? She showed me hers.”

Gold thought it over slowly. She wasn’t going to take Gideon from him. Gold had assured himself of that. And yet, it was still hard to let someone in.

“If you’d like.” He offered slowly.

“I want to show her things, things she missed. Oh, I forgot to tell you. I helped her in the library on Saturday; it was fun.”

“That does sound fun.”

“I think I’d like to do it again.”

“I don’t know how much you should be helping Belle out, even if she’s alright with it. You know there are laws against children working.”

“But you let me help out in your shop.”

“I suppose.” He turned down the roads. “You had a nice time then, otherwise?”

“I did,” Gideon assured him. “Don’t get angry, Papa.” He leaned forward from the back seat.

“What for?”

“It’s just… I think I like having a mother.”

It was like the world went blank, as Gideon said it. Gideon hadn’t used that word for Belle before, not like this. It took all of Gold’s self-control to snap back and focus on his driving. He was most certainly not getting in an accident again.

“I am happy that you have found her.” He offered slowly.

“But you’re still my papa, so you don’t have to worry.”

That brought some small relief.

-

Gold paced the hospital waiting room, his cane tapping loudly. “Where are the doctors?” He uttered impatiently.

“Papa, please calm down.” Gideon tried.

It was hard to be calm when it came to Gideon though.

“Are you alright, Mr. Gold?” Belle spoke up. Despite some nerves, she appeared much better today. “I understand if you don’t like being back here.”

“It’s only that I’m worried about Gideon.”

“I can understand.”

“Mr. Gold,” Whale called.

“You can come,” Gold told Belle.

She and Gideon followed after Gold as they walked to the room Whale had called them to. Whale looked over at Belle curiously as she entered.

“She’s Gideon’s mother.” Gold explained.

“Oh! Well, that might be helpful. Do you have any allergies yourself, Miss French?”

“No.” She replied slowly.

“Sometimes it can be genetic, but most of the time, it’s random. Any other health concerns we should be aware of?” He took out his clipboard. “It could be useful for Gideon’s records.”

“Well, family history of cancer, and my father had a heart attack once.”

“Noted.” He scribbled it down.

“Could we please get to the task at hand, Doctor Whale?” Gold snapped.

“Yes, of course. We’ll run the test for allergies, which includes some needle poking. Hope you’re still alright with that, Gideon.” He looked to the boy, who nodded slowly.

“We’ll see what happens.” Whale finished.

/

The test ran for a few hours, but after it was done, they had their results. Doctor Whale returned with the results, telling them that the allergen that set Gideon off had been sesame seed. He told them that it seemed to be the only seed Gideon appeared to have a reaction to.

“Gideon could experience the same reactions to other seeds of the same family in the future, but he seems fine with them now.”

It was a small relief to have answers. Whale wrote up a prescription for an EpiPen as well. It all did little to quell their fears.

Gold went to take Gideon to the bathroom before they drove home. Belle waited patiently for them in the lobby.

“I’m almost thankful to see Mr. Gold having someone else to support him.” Doctor Whale appeared before her. “He’s ten times worse when it’s Gideon who’s sick or injured—brought him in for the most minor things when he was a baby. Gold’s only gotten slightly better now. It’s usual for parents to feel some level of fear, but I can’t help but think something happened before he came here.”

Whale offered a smile and was quickly off, leaving Belle wondering about Gold’s mysterious past yet again.

Chapter Text

The bell above the door to the shop rang, signalling a customer. Gold got up from his work desk in the back, pushing through the curtain to enter the front.

“How can I help you?” He put on his sales voice, walking behind the counter, hoping to help whoever quickly so he could get back to what he was doing.

“Mr. Gold.” His eyes suddenly met Belle standing in his shop again, smiling at him. “I just wanted to ask how Gideon’s doing.” She seemed nervous, hands fiddling before her.

“Oh, Belle.” He felt shocked and yet delighted by her presence. He balanced himself on his cane. “Gideon’s well. Dropped him off at school this morning.”

“That’s good to hear.” She smiled again, slowly approaching his counter.

“I hope you haven’t snuck away during your work hours just to ask me that.” He twisted his hand over his cane.

“It’s my lunch break. One of the volunteers is covering for me today.” She assured him.

He nodded as her eyes flickered around the room, taking everything in.

“You do have a very lovely shop here.”

“Thank you.” He smiled in return. “Gideon is looking forward to spending time with you again this weekend.”

“Oh yes.” Her eyes met his again, and he found himself lost in them. “I would so dearly like that. And I hope it won’t go horribly again. Is this how all parents feel?” She laughed nervously. “Scared about their child’s well-being constantly.”

Gold hummed, knowing the feeling all too well. “I can say that is the case for me. But from my understanding, most parents only fret minimally.”

Her eyes wandered away, and he mourned the loss.

“Where did you live before?” She asked suddenly, her eyes back on him.

It was such a sudden, strange question. “Why do you want to know?” He asked, not understanding her curiosity.

“I don’t know.” She shrugged. “I just feel like I know so very little about you.”

He thought letting her in on that little of his life wouldn’t hurt. “I grew up in Maine, only a few towns away.”

She looked intrigued, and he wondered if she might pry further. Would he answer her if she did?

“How have you been enjoying the books I recommended last time you came in?”

“Hanging on by every word.” A smile formed on his lips. “But I’m sure you have to get going back to your work, Miss French.”

“How many times do I have to tell you?” She was suddenly coming closer, her hands falling to the counter. “You can just call me Belle.”

Gold could smell her perfume. He was lost in her presence, wondering if and why she’d ever be interested in him. She had to be interested in him due to Gideon alone. It didn’t make sense otherwise.

“Of course, Belle.” He didn’t deserve to say her name. It felt light on his lips, almost too intimate, but he longed to say it.

Her lips turned up into a beautiful smile yet again. Gold could live to see it again. “I’ll be seeing you Saturday then? Perhaps we could get brunch at Granny’s when you drop Gideon off.”

“That sounds lovely.” He found himself saying, without much thought.

She leaned back, slowly moving away. “Guess I’ll get going then. Good day then, Rupert.”  

“Good day to you, too.”

She turned away, casting one last glance back. His name hung in the air as she left, so foreign it almost didn’t sound like his name. It didn’t hold the weight or distaste in which Milah said it, and Gold found himself liking the sound of it on her lips. He longed to hear it again.

/

Saturday, Belle waited for Gold at Granny’s. They came right as she expected them, Gold holding the door open for Gideon to come in. Gideon ran over, greeting her cheerfully and sat down in the booth across from her. Gold joined shortly after.

“I have all my stuff in Dad’s car,” Gideon told her.

“Oh, well, I’m most certainly looking forward to having our sleepover again.” She smiled at him, folding her napkin over as something to do.

“Good morning.” Ruby had arrived at the table, a knowing smirk that worried Belle. “How are we doing today?”

“Quite well,” Gold told her. “We’ll have some pancakes. Belle?” He looked at her.

“Oh, yes. Sounds lovely.”

“Some orange juice for Gideon.”

“Please,” Gideon added.

“Yes, if you could, please.”

“I’ll have some tea,” Belle added, assuming Gold was done ordering.

Ruby scrawled it down on her notepad. “Would you care for something to drink, Mr. Gold? Some coffee, perhaps.”

“God, no.” He shook his head. “I guess I’ll have some tea as well.”

Ruby nodded and left them.

“Do you like word searches, Belle?” Gideon asked, turning the free paper at the table over.

“Oh yes, I do. Shall we try one together?”

Gideon had flipped to the word search page, pulling a crayon from the cup on the side of the table.

Soon, Ruby returned with their drinks, and Belle thanked her. Gold sipped his tea, and a look of disgust passed his features.

“God, this is horrible.”

“How can you mess up tea?” Belle chuckled, for she couldn’t understand it.

“I think they make it with the backwater.” He sipped it cautiously. She wondered why he’d continue if he really thought it was that bad. She never noticed any difference.

Ruby returned with their food, which looked absolutely delicious. Gideon looked as excited as ever.

“So, do you have plans for what you might do today?” Gold asked her.

“I brought some of my photo albums for you to look at,” Gideon told her.

“Oh, that’ll be nice to look at. I was thinking we could maybe go to the park or something.” She hadn’t exactly thought of particulars yet. “And that Gideon might like to make dinner together.”
 Gideon nodded enthusiastically.

“Sounds like good fun indeed.”

“Belle, you have to help me.” He pushed the paper towards her, reminding her of the word search.

-

Eventually, they finished breakfast, and Gold told Gideon to have a good day and to be good. With that, Belle and Gideon carried his bags back to her apartment. At her house, they sat on the couch beside each other again. They flipped through the photo album together. As hard as it was for Belle seeing the photos, it was also nice. Gideon talked so fondly of the memories they held. It brought her comfort knowing he had a good life and was taken care of.

Afterwards, they went on a long walk along the waterfront, discussing everything. Later, they made dinner together and watched a movie until Belle thought it was time for Gideon to go to bed. She wished him goodnight and headed to her bed, heart full.

In the morning, they made pancakes and then entertained themselves until Gideon was to be picked up again. When it was, they headed outside to meet Gold at his car. Gideon seemed sad to leave.

“Don’t worry,” Gold assured Gideon, hand at his back. “We’ll see Belle next Sunday again.”

“Can we go for brunch again? It was fun.” Gideon looked hopeful.

Gold looked at her, silently asking her if she’d like to.

“That sounds delightful.”

-

Belle waited for Gold and Gideon at the diner again next Sunday. There was a cold breeze that morning, threatening the cold weather to come. Belle had worn a sweater but appreciated the warmth of Granny’s when she came inside.

“Meeting Gold and Gideon for breakfast again?” Ruby smirked as she poured some tea for Belle.

Belle didn’t even have time to respond before Gold and Gideon entered.

“Morning Belle!” Gideon raced to slip into the booth.

“Good morning.” She smiled at him, glancing over at Gold as he approached.

“Mr. Gold.” She offered him a smile. She felt he definitely wouldn’t be comfortable with her using his first name in public.

“Belle.” He tipped his head before joining Gideon across from her. “You’re looking lovely.” He was suddenly blushing, looking embarrassed.

She smiled, though a blush was on her cheeks, too. “Thank you.” She replied quickly. “You look nice too.” He did, indeed. Today, he wore a bright blue tie that Belle thought brought out his eyes.

Ruby had approached again.

“Good morning, Mr. Gold. Gideon.”

“Hi, Ruby.” Gideon leaned over to smile at her.

“Pancakes again today?”

“Yes, Ruby. If you could please.” Gold nodded to her.

“And some tea?” She asked.

Gold sighed. “I suppose.”

When Gold’s tea arrived, he took a sip, giving the same unpleased reaction as before. Belle couldn’t help but laugh again, amused.

“Does anyone make tea you like?” She asked him.

“You managed rather sufficiently.”

It felt like a rare compliment, and Belle basked in it.

“And Jefferson’s tea house.” Gold finished.

“Oh yes.” Gideon nodded.

“Jefferson’s tea house?” It had to be new; Belle didn’t know it.

“Oh yes, quite near that old, abandoned mansion turned into a park. It’s Alice and Wonderland themed, not exactly my style. But I don’t deny he knows how to make his tea properly.”

“This has my interest peaked now.”

“We should go!” Gideon was raiding excitement again. “Can we, Papa?”

Gold appeared to be thinking it over. “Maybe next week.” He suggested.

/

Gold had only visited Belle at the library once that week to pick up some books and see about some new recommendations. However, he wasn’t going to go more than once, boundaries and all that.

It was the next Sunday, and Belle was to meet Gideon and Gold at Jefferson’s tea house. It had been a while since Gold had gone with Gideon. He didn’t think of it because the place was nearly on the other side of town. And while he did rather like the tea, the decor left something to be desired. Jefferson had called his tea house, The Mad Hatter. Just as Gold arrived, he found Belle staring curiously at the sign.

“Belle!” Gideon called her name before greeting her. Gold trailed along after.

“Shall we?” Gold asked, starting to lead the way inside.

The little tea shop was most certainly indeed Alice in Wonderland themed. The whole place was clustered and filled with an assortment of objects. Chairs were hung upside down from the ceiling. Belle looked around, taking in the displays of clocks, rabbits, top hats, smiling Cheshire cats, and hookah-smoking caterpillars. Some of the furniture was garden-themed, and others were lopsided. Small vials and fancy teacups were set on the tables.

“Mr. Gold!” Jefferson’s voice warmly greeted them.

“Jefferson.” Gold nodded in greeting.

“Long time no see, old friend.” Gold wondered why Jefferson insisted on calling him a friend, why they barely even talked. “Gideon.” Jefferson smiled at the boy next.

“Welcome, welcome.” Jefferson beckoned them in, “Grace is here too, Gideon.”

A few years older than Gideon, Grace stood behind the front desk, offering a small smile.

“Hi, Grace.” Gideon waved.

“Hi.” She waved back.

“Pick any seat,” Jefferson told them.

“Where would you like to sit, Gideon?” Gold asked.

Gideon looked around, thinking, before leading the way over. Belle was busy taking everything in.

“Here’s your menus.” Jefferson placed them down on the table Gideon chose.

“How is business going, Jefferson?” Gold asked.

“It’s not like it used to be. Yourself?”

“Fine. And your daughter?”

“Oh, Grace is well. Going into high school next year.”

“They do grow up fast indeed.”

Jefferson nodded, his gaze trailing over to Belle, curious of her. His eyes flickered back to Gold, eyebrow raising slightly. Gold really didn’t like the idea that everyone in town assumed they were together.

“This is quite the lovely place you have here,” Belle told Jefferson, still looking around. “If this was here when I was young, I think I’d insist on coming all the time.”

Jefferson smiled. “Thank you.”

“Why Alice in Wonderland?” She asked.

“Oh, my late wife was a huge fan. She had a whole collection of stuff. Most of this was hers. I just like tea.” He smiled.

They ordered small things, and Jefferson brought out on a layered tray. He poured tea into fine chinaware. Belle took her first sip.

“As much as I hate to say this, I think I taste a difference.”

“See.” A hint of a smile formed on Gold’s mouth.

Jefferson stopped by to ask Belle about herself and her life before. She filled him in with a little about her life. Gold wanted Jefferson to go away again, to leave them be, and thankfully, he did.

Gideon was insistent that they take a walk around the park nearby and explore the old, abandoned mansion.

“I remember exploring it as a child,” Belle told them.

They finished their tea rather quickly and bid Jefferson and Grace a good day before heading out into the park nearby. The old mansion stood quite looming over the property. It was a splendid place, not often open to the public, but today it was.

They slowly wandered into the grand room, Gold recalling how this place was often rented out for weddings.

 “I thought you didn’t have any friends,” Belle spoke to Gold as they wandered the grand room of the old mansion. “But Jefferson called you an old friend.”

“He’s the sort to see everyone as a friend, I imagine. We talked from time to time, that’s all. He offered some advice as a single father, which I appreciated.”

“It must have been hard for you to raise Gideon alone.”

“It could be challenging at times, yes. But I managed.”

Gideon started moving again, and they followed along, slowly wandering back outside.

After a short walk through the gardens, Gold thought perhaps it was time to call their day to an end.

“Well, this has been a lovely evening. I hope you enjoyed yourself, Belle.”

“I did.”

“Shall we do brunch next Sunday at Granny’s?”

“Sounds perfect.”

Chapter Text

It was next Sunday morning, and Belle was helping Gideon with the crossword over brunch.

“A five-letter word for adventure.” She read the clue. “I think that should be easy for you.”

“An adventure…” Gideon mulled it over. “A quest!”

“I think you’re right.”

He filled in the boxes.

“Here’s your tea, Mr. Gold.” Granny placed the tray down, her voice cold.

“Thank you,” Gold replied just as coldly. It appeared he and Granny didn’t really like each other. But Granny didn’t like very many people.

“Maybe they actually made it properly today.” Belle teased after Granny left.

“Doubtful.” Gold drank it anyway.

“You’re father’s very silly, isn’t he Gideon?” Belle smiled at the boy.

Gideon just chuckled.

“I just like my tea done properly.” Gold insisted.

Gideon chuckled some more, looking down at his crossword. “To kill one’s own father.”

“Patricide.” Belle supplied quickly.

“Gruesome crossword today,” Gold noted.

“It’s just one word.” Gideon continued. “Pat-trice-side?”

“Pat-ri-cide.” Belle corrected.

“You see, the root of the word is patter, meaning father in Latin. The suffix, cide means killing. Like suicide.” She was beginning to see how this might be a bit gruesome.

“Patter. It’s almost like papa, or padre in Spanish.”

“Indeed.” Belle smiled at Gideon. “They all mean father. Did you know the foundation for the words mama and papa comes from the most convenient sounds babies naturally make? That’s why almost all similar terms for mother and father are seen across the globe.”

“That’s cool.” Gideon lit up. “You’re really smart.” He looked back at his crossword.

“You could be as smart as Belle one day if you go to college.” Gold encouraged.

“I think I’d like to go to college. I like learning things.” Gideon looked back up.

“Well, college is a lot of work. It’s not for everyone.” Belle told him. “But I did quite enjoy learning so many things.”

Gideon smiled and turned back to his page.

After they finished their brunch, they made it to the water to feed the birds, as had become their ritual. Gideon spotted one of his friends who wanted to show Gideon something of his father’s.

“Rupert.” Belle was still getting used to using his name. She could tell how much it alarmed him every time she used it.

“Why does Gideon call you papa?” It had been a question on her mind for some time.

“Well, Dad didn’t exactly feel right.”

She nodded, feeling like she understood. “Bit old fashioned. But it definitely fits you, with your formalities and fancy suits.” She smiled at him.

“I was raised a certain way.” He fixed his tie.

“I think you mentioned that before.” She did so want to know more about his past, why he was the way he was. But it was a slow process breaking Gold’s exterior. And she wasn’t sure he was all too happy with her doing so.

“Belle.” He cleared his throat. “Gideon’s school has parent-teacher interviews. They’re being held at the end of the week. I thought you might like to go.”

“Oh.” Belle wasn’t involved with Gideon’s schooling as of yet. But she did want to be more involved in his life. “Yes, I think I’d like that.”

Gold nodded.

“Would Gideon be coming too?”

“No, they apparently don’t require that till they’re older.”

“I remember going when I was young. I always found it rather awkward, as a student at least.”

“It is nice, as a parent, to hear about how he’s doing from an outside perspective. He does do rather well in school. So it’s reassuring. Perhaps he gets his smarts from you.”

“Are you saying you’re not smart?” She looked over at him, amused.

“I help out when he needs.”

“Do you believe in nature over nurture?” She was interested to hear his insights on the thought.

“I’m unsure. There are most certainly things coded into our DNA. But of course, nurture has much influence on a person.”

Belle hummed. “So both play a vital importance.”

“Indeed, I think so.”

Gideon had returned, and their attention was taken elsewhere.

/

Maybe this was a bad idea, Gold thought. But Belle had wanted to be involved. Only, he realized he’d have to explain Belle’s presence to Gideon’s teacher. He hoped Gideon had mentioned Belle at least; surely, he must have.

Belle appeared, walking hurriedly over, looking a bit flustered.

“Oh, Rupert.” She breathed in a breath. “I lost track of the time. I worried I might be late. Do you think I look alright? I haven’t had time to do any laundry.” She was smoothing out her skirt.

“You look lovely as always.” He stuttered out. He felt he shouldn’t be saying so, but it came sputtering out despite himself.

The smile she gave him made the compliment worth it. “Thank you, Mr. Gold.” He almost wished she’d use his first name more frequently. But that was too much. There should be boundaries to whatever this was.

“Shall we go in then?” He asked.

They met Gideon’s teacher in the classroom. She was younger than Gold by a few years.

“Miss Lamb,” Gold greeted her. “This is Belle French, Gideon’s biological mother.”

“Pleasure to meet you.” The teacher shook Belle’s hand. “Gideon has mentioned you from time to time. He was excited to get to know you.”

Belle smiled softly.

“Shall we get to it then?”

The teacher assured them that Gideon was doing splendidly in school and had many friends. It was all very reassuring. Their meeting was over in fifteen minutes, and they walked out of the classroom together.

“Oh, Rupert, look at this. Art from the class.” Belle drew his attention, pointing to the wall. Gold came over. “Here’s Gideon’s.” She pointed, staring at it almost in awe.

Gold realized then that she’d missed Gideon bringing home artwork to be hung on the fridge. She missed it all.

“I say, he’s almost rather good, isn’t he?” She smiled over at Gold.

“He is. He’s good at almost everything. Except sports. I can’t say he’s very good at that. Not that I was either.”

“Nor me.” She chuckled lightly.

“Shall we?” Suddenly, he found himself offering his arm. Before he could think twice, she placed her hand there, only a small look of surprise in her eyes.

It was most certainly too late to draw away now. It’d be ungentlemanly to pull away. Only, he felt he really shouldn’t have offered it to her. For now, her hand was warm on his arm, and she was quite close, and he could smell her perfume.

“Were you good at school?” She asked him, allowing for a welcome distraction.

“Yes, I did fairly well.”

“Did you go to college?”

“Four years in business. But that was it.”

She nodded slowly.

“And what did you do after?” She was prying; he knew it. Did he dare to tell her? He dared to look over at her hand still on his arm.

He looked quickly away. “I got married.”

“You were married?” Her shock was no surprise.

“For a short time.”

“I must say, Rupert. You intrigue me more and more, the more I learn.”

He wasn’t sure of what to make of that. They made their way out of the school building.

“I’ll walk you to your car.” He offered.

“And who raised you to be such a gentleman?” She asked.

Despite the personal questions, he almost felt himself wanting to tell her. He’d kept them locked up for so long.

“That’d be Fiona.” He told her, spotting her car.

“Your mother, then.”

He didn’t respond as she reached her car. She made no move to open the door, however.

“Adoptive.” He told her slowly. “But I think that’s enough about me for today.”

“Alright, I won’t press you anymore. But how about this: next time we meet, you can ask me anything you like.”

She let go of his arm, and he felt sorry for his loss. “Good night, Rupert.”

Driving home, Gold wondered what sort of things he might ask her. He already knew she couldn’t choose a favourite book. He learned almost everything about her through Gideon. Whatever could he ask? Could he ask what perfume she wore that smelled so fine? No, that was most certainly too intimate. Boundaries, he reminded himself. And after all, she most certainly would never be interested in him.

Chapter Text

“We’re having a Halloween bash at school.” Gideon handed Belle an invitation at their next Sunday brunch. “I want you to come.”

“You’d like her to come.” Gold corrected Gideon’s grammar.

“I think that sounds like lots of fun.” Belle was smiling, unconcerned about grammar. “I’d love to come.”

Gideon smiled in return.

“Are you going to this Halloween bash too?” She asked Gold.

“Unfortunately.” He replied.

“Papa hates Halloween.” Gideon smiled.

“How can you hate Halloween? It’s free candy.”

“See Papa.”

/

Belle thought she might be able to pull off a quick and easy witch costume. All she required was a witch hat, which she easily procured from a local store. Belle had a plain black dress and an old, knitted shawl that would work nicely for her costume. She added her high-heeled boots and fishnet stockings. She was quite satisfied with her costume when it was complete.

When Belle arrived at the school, it was bustling with kids in costumes. Adults lingered about, a few in costumes as well. Most were in very simple costumes, if any at all. Belle followed the signs into the gym, where the festivities were occurring. Halloween officially wasn’t till Tuesday of the next week. The bash seemed almost like a precursor for the real thing. She looked around, wondering if Gold and Gideon were there yet.

As she wandered in, she heard her name.

“Belle!” She found Gideon running up to her in a skeleton suit, his face left unpainted.

“I love your costume.” He told her.

“Oh, thank you.” She smiled.

“Papa’s this way. He’s really no fun at events like this.”

Belle smiled to herself.

“Come on.” He took her hand and began to pull her along.

Belle still felt weird with his hand in hers. Like she shouldn’t even be allowed to touch him, but she also wanted to hold and cherish it. Gideon led her past the crowds to where Gold was standing, looking rather uncomfortable in his normal attire. She chuckled at the sight of him.

“Papa, I found Belle,” Gideon announced.

Gold perked up at the sight of her.

“Oh, Belle.” His eyes lingered over her, mouth slightly agape before he closed it again.

Nervously, Belle fixed her witch hat, wondering if her black dress was too short, or the fishnet stockings were too much. “Figured I had to dress up for the holiday.” She worked her courage back. “I see that you haven’t participated.”

“Papa never dresses up,” Gideon told her. “Come on, let’s look around.” And with that, he was pulling her off across the room.

There were various activities: pumpkin carving, apple bobbing, and beanbag toss. Vaguely Halloween-related music played quietly from speakers.

“Do you want to do some pumpkin carving with me?” Gideon asked. “I’ll force Papa to join us.”

“Don’t force him too hard,” Belle told Gideon, almost feeling sorry for Mr. Gold.

“Wait here.” Gideon beckoned her to sit at the pumpkin carving table while he went to retrieve his father.

Belle watched as Gideon pulled Gold through the crowds, as he had with her.

“So we’re carving pumpkins, I hear.” Gold sat beside her.

“Looks like it.”

Gideon was already picking one out from the pile. The pumpkins had already been cut open at the stem and carved out. All that was left to do was carve something into the side. Gideon picked one out, and Belle followed suit.

“Which one would you like, Mr. Gold?” She asked.

“I don’t much care.”

She picked one at random for him.

Belle began to drive her knife into the pumpkin with some difficulty. “Why is this harder than I remember?”

“When was the last time you carved a pumpkin?” Gideon asked with a hint of a laugh.

“Can’t remember.” She set back to work, determined to carve a mouth.

When she took a break, she looked at Gold’s pumpkin, which was coming along much better than hers.

“You’re not half bad at this.” She chuckled.

“Well, Gideon insists on doing it every year.” He mumbled.

“Because it’s fun papa.”

Belle looked over at Gideon’s half-hazard face being carved into the pumpkin.

“Yours look very good too, Gideon.” She complimented.

 “Do you hand out treats on Halloween, Mr. Gold?” She asked.

“Gideon and I always walk with some of the parents through the school neighbourhood for Halloween. Best candies that way, I figured. He enjoys it.”

“You don’t however.” She assumed.

“I don’t think I ever particularly understood Halloween. I just don’t see the appeal in dressing up and things.”

“It’s fun.” She chuckled, smiling at him.

“Hi, Gideon.” A young girl had suddenly appeared.

“Oh, hi, Ava.” Gideon greeted. “You want to see my pumpkin?” He showed it to her.

“That’s really cool.”

“Are you going to carve one?”

“Mom says we have too many at our house.” She tilted on her feet. “Do you want to try the three-legged race with me later? My brother Conner just won it, and you get to pick anything you want from this pile of cool toys.”

“Oh yeah!” Gideon nodded enthusiastically. “But I have to finish my pumpkin first.”

She nodded.

“Have you read the next Crime Brother novel?” Gideon asked her.

“Oh yes.” Ava came to sit next to Gideon, and they chatted about the books.

“I got so many more books last time I went to the library.” Ava told Gideon.

“My mom works at the library.” Gideon looked over at Belle.

It felt strange to hear him call her mom.

“Oh yes, I know you.” Ava smiled at her. Belle did recognize the girl. She took out quite a lot of books. “I thought you didn’t have a mother, though.” Ava looked back to Gideon, confusion on her face.

“I do. I just didn’t know her before. Cause you know how I’m adopted.”

“Oh, right.” She watched him carve his pumpkin. “Are you almost done now?”

“What do you think?” Gideon turned his pumpkin to show them.

“I think it looks great,” Belle told him.

“Very scary.” Gold nodded his head. “We’ll put it outside my shop.”

“Belle, do you want to watch us race?” Gideon asked.

“Sure.” She had finished carving a face in her pumpkin as well.

“I’ll watch the pumpkins,” Gold assured them. “You go on.”

They raced across the room to where the race was being held. Gideon and Ava didn’t win the first time and tried again, winning the second. Gideon chose an elastic spider from the table of prizes, while Ava chose some stickers.

“Are you coming trick-or-treating again this year?” Ava asked Gideon.

“Of course. Belle, you’re going to come too?” Gideon looked up at her.

“I’ll have to talk to your father.”

“He’ll say yes. I’ll make sure he does.”

Belle offered him a smile. “I think I’ll help your father carry the pumpkins to your car. You keep playing.”

She left to return to the pumpkin carving table where Gold sat waiting, watching.

“Would you care for some help carrying the pumpkins to your car, Mr. Gold?” She asked.

“I’d appreciate that.” He said, getting up from his chair.

She picked up two, and they headed outside to the parking lot.

“Gideon asked if I might like to join him for trick-or-treating.” She told Gold. “I just thought I might ask if you’re okay with it.

“I don’t mind if you join.” He assured her. “Gideon mostly goes off with his friends. I follow behind.”

“Well then, maybe you can ask me those questions you haven’t yet.”

“Yes.” He replied slowly. “I’ll think of something.”

-

Belle dressed in the same witch costume to meet Gold and Gideon by the school, where they’d meet with other families to start trick-or-treating. After a quick hello from Gideon, he ran off with his friends, and they set off. Most parents joining then went off into their friend groups, leaving Belle alone with Gold. Belle began to understand why Gold might not like the holiday if he was always trailing alone after the groups.

“Who was he? Gideon’s father.” Gold asked as they started walking.

Belle felt shocked at Gold’s sudden question. She hadn’t been expecting it. She expected questions about her life before, perhaps about college, but not that.

“Um, his name was Grant. Admittedly, I don’t understand how I ever fell for him. He was charming at first, I suppose. But he wasn’t a really nice guy. Don’t think he particularly liked me, either then for… well…” she trailed off. “When I told him I was pregnant, he wanted nothing to do with me. He told me it was my fault. Even though he’d been the one to pressure me into it.” She felt a tinge of anger at the memory.

“I’m sorry.”

“As much as he wasn’t a great guy, at least Gideon came from it all.”

“Yes, I suppose we have that to be thankful for.”

“Any other questions you thought of?” She walked close to him, the cold breeze of the night cutting through her costume.

“Not really.”  Gold thought for a bit as they paused at a house and then started off again. “What’s your favourite colour?”

“Blue. Yours?”

“I think I’m too old for a favourite colour.”

“You’re never too old for a favourite colour.” She told him.

“Hazel.” He replied slowly.

“Like Gideon’s eyes.” She thought it was sweet.

He hummed quietly. “What’s your favourite holiday?” He asked after a pause.

“Christmas.”

“Yes, I think that’s my favourite too.” They paused at another house and began moving again.

“Favourite drink?” Gold asked next.

“Tea.”

“Very sensible.” She already knew that was his favourite. He’d made that quite apparent.

“Favourite…” he searched for something. “Memory?”

That was a tricky one. Belle thought for a moment. “Whenever my mother would read me a story.”

He smiled.

“What about you?” They stopped at the next house, and he wrung his hands around his cane. “Many watching Gideon grow up.” He thought some more. “When it felt like we first connected.”

“How do you mean?”

They started walking again.

“He was a stranger to me. While I felt a need to look after him, to protect him, I wasn’t sure that he’d ever be mine. He was still a baby at the time, but one night, he woke me up with his crying, and I went to comfort him. He stopped as soon as he was in my arms. I felt then like maybe I could take care of him, that he could be my own.”

It touched her heart to hear. “Do you remember that day? When my father gave him to you?” She dared to ask.

He nodded slowly. “Moe was to arrive any minute. I kept looking at my watch, thinking he was late. Then Moe arrived at my back door and produced this basket, like out of a movie. He handed the money over he promised. I wasn’t going to drive to Boston for free, you see. Then he left. Well, then Gideon started crying, and I dared to look at him. He was so small and fragile.”

Gold paused for a moment. “I saw the book laid on top of him and opened it. I saw your letter and assumed his name to be Gideon. And, well, suddenly, I felt I couldn’t just drop him off to be placed in the foster system. It wasn’t fair or right.”

She hummed, wrapping her arms around herself. “Well, I am glad you took him. I can’t help but think any manner of person could have taken him. I might have never found him, or the parents might have never let me near him. So I am grateful it was you.”

Gold offered a soft smile. “Belle, before Gideon, what did you imagine for your life?”

“That’s changed from time to time. But I did always want a family, to fall in love one day.”

“But you never dated after?” He said it carefully.

“No. I found it hard to trust men after.”

She felt almost like he might ask more and held out hope that he might. She almost wanted him to. But he held back.

“What are your favourite things to do?” He asked instead.

“Reading for sure.” She smiled as a shiver came over her.

“You’re cold?” He asked in concern.

“I’m afraid I didn’t think of the weather when planning an outfit.”

He was taking his jacket off suddenly, she wanted to refuse, to insist she was okay. But also, it was all too easy to let him drop it over her shoulders. She liked being near him, the smell of his cologne surrounding her, warm and rich.

“There you are.” He said softly.

“We’re falling behind.” She realized.

“We’ll catch up.” He said, hardly concerned at all.

Chapter Text

Belle was very aware of the fact that Gideon’s birthday was the next week. She was almost afraid to bring it up. However, Belle was nervous that she might not be included. It was Sunday, and she’d gone out to meet with Gideon and Gold for brunch again. It was the first thing from Gideon’s lips, his birthday.

“I’m having a party next Saturday,” Gideon told her. “I’m going to invite all my friends. And I want you to come as well.”

Belle’s heart melted. “Of course, I’ll come.”

“Papa made invitations.” Gideon handed one to her, and she held it dearly.

“Would you be needing any help?” She looked to Gold, unsure. “I’d like to help any way you might need.” Belle so wanted to be involved. She’d counted every birthday she missed, that she hadn’t got to plan.

“Well, it can be a bit overwhelming managing all the children. But I wouldn’t force you to assist.” Gold told her.

“I’d like to do something. Perhaps I could get a cake.”

“Cake!” Gideon smiled at his father.

“If that’s something you’d like to do, Miss French. I don’t see why you should not,” Gold said, bringing a soothing comfort.

-

Belle had picked up a cake at the store per Gideon’s instructions the day before. When she was at the store, she spotted some birthday decorations and bought them as well. She did so want the day to feel special for him.

She came early Saturday morning with her cake, streamers and present. Gideon was quick to offer her help, especially excited about the cake.

“I got some decorations.” Belle showed the streamers to Gold. She noticed there was only one streamer on the wall.

“You can put them up. Gideon will help.” Gold told her.

“Oh yes!” Gideon jumped to action.

Belle pulled out one of the chairs to hang the streamer from the arch over the main hallway.

“Please do be careful. I’d hate to see anyone get hurt.” Gold worried over them.

“Anything else you need help with?” She asked when she was done.

Gold seemed to think. “I think that shall be all for now. The kids should arrive shortly.” He looked at his watch.

“Want to help me get my craft ready?” Gideon asked her, and Belle was more than willing to help out.

Shortly after, the first kid arrived, and slowly, more parents began dropping their children off. The parents awkwardly greeted Gold with a hint of fear in their faces. Belle stood by to offer them a friendly hello. Gold explained she was Gideon’s mother in the most casual tone.

“Oh, you’re Gideon’s mother.” Some of the parents said as if it was all clear to them now.

When all of Gideon’s friends were present, noise filled the house as they talked over each other. Belle assisted Gold in taking their presents and putting them off to the side before Gold urged Gideon to play outside with his friends. Not needing much prompting, the kids ran right out the back door.

“I’ll be happy when there’s peace and quiet after the day’s done.” Gold sighed tiredly.

“Oh, but at least Gideon’s having fun.” Belle pried at him.

“Yes, I’m glad for that.” He looked around the dining room. “Would you care for something to drink? I have lemonade for the kids.”

“Oh, that sounds nice.”

He took it out of the fridge to pour her some.

“I think I’d like to watch the kids playing outside. If you don’t mind.” She said, accepting the glass he offered her.

“Of course.” He nodded and began leading her out the back door.

Outside, Gideon seemed to be leading the kids in some sort of game, though Belle couldn’t tell what. Gold gestured to a chair in which Belle could sit, and she gratefully took it. A smile quickly brought to her lips, watching the kids playing and having fun. She recognized some of them, kids from the library, other kids Gideon had introduced her to at the park. Then there was August, Marco’s son, a few years younger than Gideon. The younger boy didn’t seem bothered about being at a party with kids two grades older than him.

They started playing some sort of variation of manhunt, and while trying to escape getting tagged, August fell face-first into the grass. As Gideon and the other kids raced to check on him, Belle jumped up, alarmed. As Gideon helped August up, it became clear the younger boy had been hurt in the fall. Gold and Belle were rising as Gideon walked August over to them.

“August fell,” Gideon told them.

“I saw,” Gold spoke, kneeling quickly in front of the younger boy.

Belle noticed that August’s knee seemed scuffed up.

Gold inspected the scraped knee. “Nothing a little bandage won’t fix. I have some in our washroom. You go on, Gideon.” Gold rose. “We’ll be back in a second.”

Gideon looked at August. “I’ll be okay,” August assured him.

“Go on.” Belle encouraged Gideon, and he turned around to join his friends.

“Come on.” Gold offered August his hand, and the younger boy took it.

Belle found herself following them, unsure why, as they headed inside and to the upstairs washroom. Gold had August jump up on the counter and rifled for a bandage in his cabinet before finding one. Belle smiled at August, offering encouragement as Gold bandaged the scraped knee.

“See, all better.” Gold announced once it was done.

“Thanks, Mr. Gold.” August looked at his newly bandaged knee.

“You think you can keep on playing?” Gold asked. August nodded urgently. “Good lad, come on then.” Gold helped him down from the counter, and they returned outside.

Once outside, August ran off to join the other kids again, appearing entirely unharmed.

“You really managed to work your magic.” Belle chuckled.

“Kids like to exaggerate. I found that a bandage and a kiss with Gideon usually do the trick.”

Belle smiled at the thought of it. She settled back into her chair, watching them once more.

Gold looked at his watch at one point. “Care to help me make some lunch, Miss French.”

“Of course.”

Gold called to Gideon, telling him he’d be inside making lunch, and then they went inside.

Belle was keen to help. Gold had made most of it the night before, but they put the sandwiches on the table and cut up fruits and veggies. She wondered if the kids would eat it all.

“I’ll call them in,” Gold told her when the table was ready.

The kids came running back inside. It seemed all manners went to the wayside as they devoured the food, barely sitting at the table.

“When can we have cake?” One demanded.

“After presents,” Gold told them sternly, barely managing to control them all.

“Please sit on your chair properly.” He told them in the same stern tone.

“Do they ever get tired?” Belle chuckled to him when he took a breath, away from the commotion of the table.

“Trust me, it was way worse when they were younger. They wouldn’t even sit or eat. Gideon could run around all day insisting he wasn’t tired. Then he’d throw a tantrum when he had tired himself out.”

Gold shook his head. “He could find fun in the smallest of things and could do the same thing for hours, like going down the slide. It made things easy, but it did get boring after a while. But if I tried to pull him away, it’d start a tantrum again. And he could never play on his own; at least now he can. And now, the kids can work out their problems on their own. I’ve had to tell Gideon too many times not to be a sore loser or to make sure he includes other kids.”

“So he wasn’t the perfect child then?”

“Unfortunately not.” Gold shook his head. “He could be quite the handful at times.”

Gideon ran over. “Can I open my presents now, papa?”

“All right.” Gold caved. “Let’s sit in the living room. Then we can have cake and do your craft after.”

The kids were corralled into the living room where they sat around Gideon, who opened his presents. It was mostly toys. Belle had gifted him a kid’s cookbook, and Gideon seemed delighted by it. Belle helped Gold clean up the wrapping paper and the lunch mess while Gideon showed off his new toys. They brought the cake and called the kids over when the dining table was clear. Most of the kids, who were too hopped up on sugar, did their craft half-heartedly. After they went back outside to play some more.

It was nearly dinner when the parents returned to pick the kids up. Gideon had put together a little goodie bag for each of his friends. He handed them each one and thanked them for their presents and coming to his party before they left. Finally, all the kids had left. Belle, who had done almost nothing, felt exhausted.

“Belle, you’re staying for dinner, right?” Gideon clung to her hand suddenly. “Papa said you could. And after, we could watch a movie together.”

“Oh, alright.” She all too easily caved.

The food was just as good as that first night she’d been invited to their house for dinner. She asked Gideon if he enjoyed his party, then asked about past birthdays and the kinds of things he did. Only, it seemed Gold remembered them better than Gideon did.

After their meal, she offered to help clean up the dinner and other messes from after the party. The only thing they left were the birthday decorations.

“Gideon, have you picked out a movie yet?” Gold asked.

“No, do you want to help?” He asked Belle.

They found themselves in the living room, Gideon rifling through the bookshelf of DVDs.

“I do like Mary Poppins.” She pointed to it after noticing it.

“Mary Poppins it will be then.” He took it out. “Wait, I want to get comfy. I’m going to change into my pyjamas.”

“Alright.” Belle settled on the couch as Gideon ran off to get changed. He came back within a few minutes, looking very comfy. He put the DVD in and sat beside Belle on the couch.

Gold joined them a second after, sitting in the chair to their left. As the movie began, Belle was filled with childhood nostalgia. She’d often dreamt of sharing her favourite childhood things with Gideon, but he was almost too old for most of those things now. She was still glad to share this with him, at least. They sang along to the songs, enjoying the movie. And while Gold pretended to be not singing, Belle saw his lips move occasionally.

When the movie was done, Gideon seemed desperate for the night not to end. “It’s barely even my bedtime.” He moaned. “Can’t we watch one more movie?” He pleaded with his father.

“We can watch an episode of a TV show, but that’s it.” Gold insisted.

Belle wondered if tomorrow hadn’t been a Sunday if Gold would have allowed him to do so.

Gideon picked out some murder mystery show, beginning to yawn, clearly exhausted from all his running around.

“Thanks for your present.” Gideon said to Belle, “And for coming.”

Suddenly, he was leaning against her side. Belle felt warm at the contact and let him relax against her, basking in the physical intimacy she’d missed as the episode played in front of them. The episode’s mystery caught her right up, and she didn’t notice Gideon’s weight becoming heavy on her shoulder. However, she noticed the episode dragged on but was desperate to determine who the murderer was.

“That doesn’t make any sense.” She said as the episode ended. “It was the gardener. That makes sense.”

She looked beside her to notice Gideon’s eyes had fallen shut.

“I think I agree.” Gold spoke.

“Gideon.” She shifted, but his body only fell into hers. She caught him quickly and gently, so as not to awaken him.

“I think Gideon fell asleep.” She chuckled quietly.

“He does this every year.” Gold shook his head, rising from his chair. “Picks this same show because he knows it has long episodes and then falls asleep.”

 Belle was still holding Gideon, taking him in. “Eleven years old.” She reached up to touch his hair. “Can’t believe it.”

“Neither can I.” Gold was slowly moving towards her.

She didn’t want him to wake Gideon or move him from her. She wanted to hold him closer, tighter. She didn’t want to miss another moment.

“I never got to hold him before they took him from me.” She told Gold softly.

Gideon was muttering, stirring back awake.

“Maybe you’d like to put him to bed.”

Belle’s eyes shot to Gold, staring at him in utter shock at the offer. “Thank you.”

Gold nodded and moved away to give her time. She stroked Gideon’s hair as he rolled around, almost off the couch and was jolted awake.

“Did I fall asleep?” He blinked and opened his eyes.

“Only a little while.” She told him, “Why don’t I take you to bed?”

He mumbled in response, rubbing his tired face. Belle helped him up, and in a sleepy daze, they walked up the stairs, Belle’s hand supporting his back. They reached Gideon’s room, and Belle helped him into his bed.

“Thanks.” He smiled as she tucked him in.

“I’m just trying to make up for lost time.”

“Belle.” He spoke slowly, softly. “Could I call you Mom?”

It felt like a heavy question. “I’d like that, Gideon, I really would.” She nodded her head. “I want to be your mother. I want to be involved in every aspect of your life. I don’t want to miss anything else.”

“You won’t.” He promised. “Are you sad that you missed when I was a baby?”

“Yes. But you grew up with a loving father who took good care of you, and for that, I’m grateful. You still got all those cherished memories from him. And now, we get to share new ones together.” She threaded her fingers through his own, and he squeezed her hand.

“Now, I hope you had a good birthday.”

“It was lots of fun,” Gideon assured her.

“That’s good to hear. You get lots of rest now.”

“Night, Mom.”

-

Belle needed to catch her breath at the bottom of the stairs. Her chest felt tight, and she pressed her hand against it.

“Is he in bed then?” Gold asked.

“Yes.” She replied quickly. She looked up at his eyes. “He wants to call me mom.”

“Oh, yes. Well, I suppose that makes sense.” Gold’s eyes ducked down, and he wrung his cane.

“If you’re not comfortable with that…” She rushed to say.

“No. Gideon should call you whatever he wishes.” Her heart went out to him then.

“Thank you for letting me come.”

“It was Gideon’s invitation.” She knew it was partly his, too.

“I should get going now.”

“You’ll be alright to drive home at this hour?” Gold asked in gentlemanly concern.

“I’ll be fine, Rupert. Thank you for looking after me, though.”

“We’ll see you tomorrow then.”

She looked at him, confused.

“For our Sunday brunch together.”

“Oh, right. Of course. See you tomorrow.”

Chapter Text

Whatever part of Gold thought this might be easy, he wasn’t sure. That next day, they went for their weekly brunch with Belle, and Gideon had greeted her by calling her Mom. It startled Gold like nothing else. It was weird how much it did, for she was his mother, after all. It was a small relief to see Belle a little uncomfortable with the term as well.

Gold just kept thinking of what she said, how they took Gideon from her before she could even hold Gideon. Did she even get to see him? Her father, or whoever had convinced her it was for the best, forced Gideon out of her life. Maybe it had been for the best, but still, that wasn’t anyone else’s decision to make but hers. But if Belle had kept Gideon, Gold would have lived a lonely life in that old house, alone, friendless. He’d never have Gideon. Gold would have never gotten to meet Belle. And as much as he was denying it to himself, Gold was finding himself drawn more and more to her. Her smile and laugh brought smiles to his lips. She was a warm light to the chilly impending winter weather.

A week later, it had gotten much colder. Belle had come late to Granny’s, wrapped in a jacket, gloves and hat, shivering. Gold himself was wearing a thicker coat due to the sudden weather change.

“It’s freezing out there.” She shivered as she walked up to their booth, holding her jacket tight. Gold found himself hoping she owned a good winter coat.

But as dinner was served, she quickly warmed up in the heated indoor of Granny’s and took her jacket off. After breakfast, Gideon insisted on their weekly walk, and Belle put on her jacket once again.

She was shivering as they walked to the water’s edge, where, unfortunately, the cool breeze was ten times worse.

“You look to be freezing,” Gold commented, worrying over Belle.

“I’m afraid I’m all skin and bones.” She said through a trembling smile.

As they stopped to feed the ducks, Gold couldn’t stand her shivering any longer.

“Here, at least take my jacket.” It was the least he could do. She accepted it, grateful, drowning in his jacket.

“You’re a gentleman, Rupert.” She smiled, her eyes glistening.

Gold thought everyone should be a gentleman around her. She deserved that. She was too kind, too nice, even after everything.

-

It was Thursday, and Gold was experiencing a rather cold, boring day at the shop. He thought about getting some tea to warm him from Granny’s, no matter how terrible it might be. It wasn’t like anyone was going to come into his shop anyway.

When he entered Granny’s, he found Belle sitting in a booth sipping hot chocolate, looking at the window rather almost sad and nervous.

“Belle,” he caught her attention, surprised to see her.

“Mr. Gold.” She looked over in shock as well. An apprehensive but hopeful, happy sort of smile reached her lips. Gold couldn’t decipher the way she was staring at him.

“You’re not, Book-Lover-99, are you?” She tried slowly, apprehensive.

“No,” he replied, confused.

“Oh,” her face fell a bit. “No, of course not.”

“Why?” He asked. “Who is Book-Lover-99?”

“It’s nothing.” She waved her hand casually. “What are you doing here?” Her mood changed, her shoulders easing.

“Thought about getting some warm tea.” He told her.

“But you hate Granny’s tea.”

“But it’s warm.”

“You should try the hot chocolate. It’s quite good.” She held her mug up.

“I’m trying to stay healthy, remember?”

“Well, I think you’re allowed to cheat every once in a while. Ruby!” She caught the waitress’s attention.  “Will you get Mr. Gold here some hot chocolate?”

“That really isn’t…” Gold tried to protest.

“Coming right up.” Ruby smiled cheerfully.

Gold sighed in defeat, his eyes falling to the empty seat across from Belle. “May I join you?”

“Go right ahead.” She nodded gently.

He slipped into the booth, taking off his jacket.

Ruby returned with the hot chocolate. “So is Mr. Gold Book-Lover-99 then?” Ruby asked.

“No, Ruby.” Belle shook her head, looking like she rather wished Ruby hadn’t said anything.

“Pity. Looks like you’ve been stood up then.” Ruby spun off.

“You’ve been stood up?” Gold took it in, confused. “You were waiting for a blind date.” He suddenly realized with a slight tinge of what might have been jealousy.

Belle blushed, looking down. Then, another realization passed over Gold. Belle had thought he might be her date. She’d almost been relieved, happy to see him. No, he wasn’t going to go there. Boundaries.

“I received this letter in the book drop the other day,” Belle told him. “Usually, I’m not the kind of girl to fall for that sort of thing. But I thought, why not? Only, it seems he stood me up.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Gold took his mug in hand, avoiding her eyes. He did feel sorry for her.

“It’s all right. I’m sure we’d probably have nothing in common or something.” She took a sip of her drink. “How are things with you?” She asked as if keen to turn the conversation.

“Quite alright.” He nodded slowly.

“Have you read any new good books recently?”

“No, though perhaps you could provide me with some more recommendations some time.”

“Feel free to stop by the library whenever. I’m always there, as you know.” She smiled at him with her beautiful smile.

“You haven’t tried your hot chocolate yet.” She prompted.

“Oh yes.” He took a tentative sip; it was sweet and rich. The whipped cream had melted sufficiently and avoided his sip, but it still landed on his nose. It was cold against the warmth of the chocolate. Gold felt embarrassed and wiped it off.

“It’s good, huh?” Belle chuckled.

“It’s not bad.”

She was smiling at him, and he didn’t want to leave. There was a start of a question on his lips: Had she wanted it to be him? No, boundaries, he reminded himself. She was too young, too lovely. He was… old, crippled.

“Are you alright?” She asked, noticing the change in his demeanour.

“Yes. It’s just I remembered something I must do.” He was rising quickly. He had to get away. “It was lovely to see you again, Belle.”

“You haven’t even finished your hot chocolate.”

“Too much sugar for me, I think.”

/

Belle turned the letter over, cursing herself.

“Dear Belle.” It had read. “Ever since your arrival in Storybrooke, I thought you were the most beautiful woman.”

Why had she ever thought it was him? Surely, he would write more sophisticated than that.

“You have always been kind and friendly to me. I have never worked up the courage to ask you on a date, but now, I am. Meet me at Granny’s on Thursday at two. Book-Lover-99”

Belle crinkled up the letter and tossed it across the room.

“Mean prank.” She wanted to cry.

She should have just ignored it, but she had gotten her hopes up for some reason. She had begun imagining it had been Gold who had written it. But of course, he hadn’t. He was the father of her son. Things would just be too complicated. And if things went bad… What had Belle been thinking?

But then Gold showed up…and… and…  She had to push away the growing feelings within her. It’d be for the best.

-

“Belle.” A boy’s voice rose from the other side of her front desk.

“Oh, hello there.” She smiled at him. She remembered him. His name was Samuel. He was at least seven.

“I have something for you.” He passed over a letter.

“Thank you.” She opened it. He had very nice writing for a child. It looked familiar.

“I’m sorry about missing our last meeting.” The letter read. “I promise this time we can meet at Gage Park at lunch time, Friday. Book-Lover-99.”

Belle was confused and suddenly noticed Samuel was gone. It was Friday and nearly twelve. Belle asked a volunteer to watch over things while she went on lunch break. Belle walked to the park. It was the same one where she usually went with Gideon and Gold on their Sunday walks. She spotted the boy again. He was waiting by himself on a bench, looking around. A great smile reached his lips as he spotted her.

“Samuel.” She approached him. “Who gave this to you?” she asked, holding the letter out.

“No one, I wrote it.” He told her.

Belle was left blinking in shock. She felt utterly and completely humiliated. But at the same time, her heart went out to the little boy.

“Oh, Samuel.” She crouched before him. “While your letter was really lovely. I think I’m a bit too old for you.”

“But you’re the prettiest lady I’ve ever met.” He tried.

“Thank you, Samuel. Where’s your parents?” She looked around the park.

“My mom’s watching my baby sister.”

Belle did remember him having a baby sister.

“Come on.” Belle offered him her hand, and he eagerly took it. Together, they walked to the playground, where Belle spotted Samuel’s mother. The woman looked over, spotting Belle leading Sam over.

“Belle!” Sam’s mother looked shocked.

“Christine, right?” Belle vaguely remembered, and the woman nodded.

“Sorry. Samuel wrote me a love letter under a pseudonym.” She handed the letter over to the mother.

“What?” The mother glanced over the letter. “Sam, you did this?”

“I think Belle’s really pretty.” He fidgeted.

“Sam, Belle’s a full-grown adult. You shouldn’t be writing these things to her. It’s not appropriate. You wouldn’t write something like this to your teacher, would you?”

“No.” He replied slowly.

“I’m sorry, Belle. I had no idea.”

“It’s all right,” Belle replied softly. “He’s just a boy. No harm done. I have to get back to work now.”

The mother nodded.

“Alright, Sam, I’ll see you at the library sometime. But I don’t want any more letters, understood?” She glared him down.

“Understood.”

“Have a fun day.” She offered a friendly smile before leaving.

-

It was Sunday, and Belle had met up with Gold and Gideon at Granny’s for their weekly lunch. Belle was trying and failing to feel better, having felt crushed after Friday’s revelation.  Gideon insisted on going for a walk after, the cold seeming not to bother him in the least. Belle did her best to pretend it didn’t bother her. Despite how much she might wish, she didn’t want Gold to offer her his jacket again, for that would only send her spiralling with hope again. She didn’t want that.

When they reached the park, Gideon had found a friend and was caught up talking to the other boy.

“Did you find out who your mysterious suitor was?” Gold asked quietly, almost startling Belle.

Belle shuttered at the memory. “A seven-year-old child, I’m afraid.”

“Oh.”

“It was sweet. But embarrassing. He had surprisingly good writing and spelling.” She told him. “Oh, I picked out some more books for you.” It’d provided a distraction from the whole mystery suitor thing. “I have them at the library waiting for you. You can pick them up whenever you like.”

“You didn’t have to do that.”

“I’m a librarian. It’s my job.”

“I think that’s going beyond your job description. They should pay you more.”

“I wish.” She chuckled.

“Thank you, Belle. I’ll be sure to pick them up sometime this week.”

Chapter Text

It had been a cold walk to Gideon’s school after Gold parked his car at his shop. His leg had been in particular pain that morning, a sign of worse weather coming. Gold had ensured Gideon was dressed warmly for the day and saw him off as always. Gold returned to his shop, happy to be back in the warmth. He busied himself with paperwork and such before picking up one the books Belle had provide him with. He’d only gotten maybe a third of the way through it so far. As he continued, the more romantic the story became. Belle had yet to recommend him a romance book, and while this one was barely one, it sent a strange feeling through him.

Gold paused the book to look out the window and noticed a white flake drift by. He perked up and peered further out the window to notice it was snowing. It was only November, and there was snow already, strange weather indeed.

He got up to turn his radio on and listen to the weather report. Apparently, a sudden storm was blowing through and was imminent to hit their town any second.

Sure enough, the winds started to howl within maybe an hour, and hail began to pelt the windows. Gold worried about Gideon at school, but they would call if the school were cancelled.

The next thing Gold knew, the lights in his shop went out. Gold didn’t bother with turning the generator on and stepped outside the shop to see if the others on the street were experiencing the same fate. As he stepped out, the winds blew him back, hail pelting him. He covered his face, standing against the wind, catching Marco running over.

“Looks like the whole streets gone out!” Marco called.

“Have you heard anything from the school?”

“No, but they’re on a different line than here. They should be fine.”

“I’m going to close up my shop,” Gold told Marco and rushed inside, a shiver taking over his body.

Gold’s leg was aching more, but he ignored it as he grabbed his stuff. He was intent on picking up Gideon from school, heading home and being warm by the fire. He was out the back of his shop into the howling wind, the power lines above him creaking dangerous and imposing. That was when his eyes caught the clock tower in the distance standing above the town, and he thought of Belle—poor, tiny Belle, shivering badly from the slightest cold. The library was connected to the same power line. Surely, it’d lost power too. Gold couldn’t say if the library had a generator. A rising need to check on her was starting, his concern about Gideon going on the back burner. It’d be a quick check-in. Besides, the school hadn’t called yet. The moment they did, Gold would head out.

Gold walked through the terrible storm to the library, forcing the door open. He found no one, and the place was dark, just as freezing inside as it was outside.

“Belle?!” He tried.

“Rupert,” his name was called with relief, but he still couldn’t see her.

Gold looked round the desk and found the back room open. Belle stood in it, holding a flashlight.

“I’m trying to get the backup power started, but I’m afraid it’s no use.” She explained. “Might as well close up and return to my apartment. Do you think the power’s out there, too?”

“I’d assume it’ll be. The whole streets out.”

She sighed and came out of the back room, switching the flashlight off. She closed the door and put the flashlight down, hugging her arms around her.

“You must be freezing.” Gold was about to offer his jacket again. She probably needed it more than he did.

“Terribly.” She walked over to him, shivering, teeth clattering. “What am I supposed to do till the power returns?”

“Come with me. My shop has a backup generator. I’ll get the heat up and working for you.”

He found himself putting a hand on her shoulder as she rounded the front desk.

“You can take my jacket. It’s terrible out there.”

“Your shop’s not nearly that far, Mr. Gold. All be alright till then.”

He nodded, though he wanted to protest. “Stay close to me.” 

They took one step outside, and the winds pushed against them hard. Belle almost lost her footing on her heels, and Gold found himself pulling her tight to him. Trying to support her with his leg aching like it was, was dangerous. But he could survive the walk to his shop. She pulled close to him, her head down, pressed against his chest as he led them across the street. Hail hit his face hard, and Gold tried to shield her from it. Thankfully, they reached his shop in record time, considering the elements. He unlocked the back door, hurrying her inside.

“Find yourself a blanket.” He instructed, racing over to the generator.

All it took was one turn, and it was up and running, the heat flowing through the vents.

Belle was still standing behind Gold, arms wrapped around herself, shivering. She had made no move to find a blanket, it seemed. Gold was at it, pulling one down from a shelf and came over to set it around her shoulders.

“Thank you, Rupert.” Her teeth still clattered.

“I’ll make you some tea.” He was moving again, filling his electric kettle.

He was almost glad for it now, for how quickly it could heat water. She needed the warm drink. He pulled out his teacups and, within a minute, was able to pour the tea. Belle was pacing, rubbing her arms under the blankets.

“This weather most certainly came out of nowhere, didn’t it?” Belle said. “What about Gideon’s school?”

“They haven’t called yet. They should be fine, though. At least that’s what I’m telling myself.”

Gold placed a cup on the table and brought the other over to her. “Here.”

She carefully rearranged the blanket over her arms so she could take the warm cup. “Thank you.”

“You look so cold.” His hand was on her arm again, wanting to do more. To warm her up somehow.

“Like I said. The cold just goes right through me.” She smiled, taking a tentative sip of her tea.

He was turning around, searching for something, anything. “I’ll find you another blanket, darling.”

The term fell from his lips without much thought or consideration. It startled him as it did. He hadn’t used that since… He froze, unsure.

“Are you alright, Mr. Gold?” She asked, as if alarmed.

“Sorry.” He shook his head. “I didn’t mean to refer to you like that.” He wouldn’t meet her eyes; he couldn’t.

“I don’t mind.” Her voice was quiet but filled the empty shop, almost silencing the howling wind outside.

“It wouldn’t be appropriate.” He started moving, spying another blanket.

“Oh, yes.” She sounded almost disappointed. Had he heard that right?

Gold picked up the other blanket. “Why don’t you sit down? Make yourself comfortable.”

She nodded and slowly sat at the table. Gold came over and draped the other blanket over her.

“I’ll be sweating in a few minutes.” She smiled.

What had he done, bringing her here? What was he doing? He watched her sip her tea as he sat cautiously across from her. He had to get her from his mind. He couldn’t think of her this way if they were to continue any semblance of co-parenting Gideon.

Co-parenting. It was the first time Gold used the term in his head. It seemed he’d finally accepted her into his and Gideon’s life. It was strange to think. But Gold didn’t want it any other way. Only, Gold did wish he wasn’t so enraptured by her; it might make things a lot easier.

“Rupert.” She started, his name on her lips, calling to him. “You said you were married before?”

It was the start of a question; one Gold wondered if he dared go.

“I was.” He wrapped his hand around the mug in front of him. “A while ago now. I was young, naive.” The memories pained him. “Fresh out of college and felt…lacking.” It felt embarrassing. “I’d never, well, done anything, you see. Fiona, my foster mother, was adamant that I get myself settled, find a wife, and continue her legacy, as it were. Somehow, I found Milah.”

“That was your wife?”

“She was.” He took a tentative sip. It felt surprisingly easy to talk to Belle about all this. How long had he been holding it in?

“She was young, carefree, boisterous, and adventurous. I liked her spirit. But she was also demanding and terrified me at times. If I ever did her wrong, I came back trembling, pleading for forgiveness. I was desperate, you see.”

“You mean to say your relationship was toxic then?”

He hadn’t really ever accepted the truth of that, even after all these years. He still believed what Milah had driven into his head, that he was pathetic and always in the wrong.

Gold continued, still not ready to accept what Belle said was the truth. “Milah found out I was to come into a lot of money once I wed. That’s the only reason she stuck around, I think. She didn’t like me; she made that clear.”

Gold didn’t dare meet Belle’s eyes, but he could feel them soft and sympathetic on him.

“You divorced from her though?” She asked.

“Not exactly. More like she left when things got too much, then sent me divorce papers months later.”

“Too much?”

No, Gold couldn’t bring himself to tell her about Neal. He wasn’t ready for that.

“A story for another time.” He simply told her.

“I’m sorry, Rupert.” Her hand reached out across the table to his. “You didn’t deserve that. You deserved someone who would treat you properly. Someone who loved you.”

His eyes dared to meet hers, the soft blues in which he was instantly lost. Gold’s hand suddenly intertwined with hers before he realized what he was doing and drew away. Where had those boundaries he’d been so adamant about gone to?

“Told you I’d be warming up in no time.” Belle was chuckling, taking off the blankets draped over her. Gold watched in utter fascination. Her cheeks seemed flushed, and Gold wondered when that had happened.

When she placed the blankets gracefully on the ground beside her, she smiled back at him. “Have you finished my book recommendations yet?”

“I’m on the last one now.” He gestured back to his desk.

“Oh yes. I love the romance story in that one.” The blush was back. “I wasn’t sure if that be something you’d be interested in. Only, I knew that book wasn’t romance-heavy, so I thought you might still like it.”

“I don’t mind romance,” he told her. “And it’s a good book. I am enjoying it thus far.”

“I’m glad.”

“Belle,” he started to say, unsure about where he was going. “The other day, with your mystery suitor?”

“Don’t remind me.” She ducked her head into her hands in embarrassment.

“It’s only…” Did he dare to tread? But perhaps it might help him get over her. “Are you looking to date someone now that you’re settled here?”

“Oh, no.” She shook her head, her blush back. “Not really. I just thought to take a chance when the letter arrived. And look where that got me. With a seven-year-old suitor.”

Gold did feel sorry for her, even if the revelation did bring him some small sense of relief out of jealousy. “It was sweet.”

“I suppose.” She hummed, taking another sip of her tea.

“But I suppose now that I am settled, I wouldn’t be opposed to dating,” she said it slowly, glancing briefly up at him.

Gold rationalized the look in his brain. “I’d just like to know, for Gideon’s sake. I hope you understand, but I wouldn’t want him being introduced to anyone till it’s serious, that’s it.”

“Oh yes. Of course.” She was nodding vigorously. “But to tell you the truth, I think I’m a bit nervous to start dating again. I have been ever since Grant, I suppose.”

“Yes, I can understand. You had been very young when it happened, hadn’t you?”

She looked a bit puzzled. “Yes, I was rather young. How young do you think I was?”

“Eighteen?” He tried carefully so as not to offend.

She laughed lightly, alarmed by his assumption.

“How young do you think I am, Rupert?”

“Late twenties.” He was feeling flustered. Had he assumed wrong?

“Well, I’m flattered, Rupert. But I’m thirty-one.” She chuckled lightly.

Thirty-one, he did the quick calculations in his head. “You were only twenty-one.” He thought it over some more. “Your father thought you weren’t old enough to care for a child at twenty-one?” He felt shocked.

“That and he thought I’d forget my studies. Lose my prospects.” Her voice fell as she said it. “I don’t know.” She shook her head.

Gold was still turning it all over in his mind. She hadn’t been quite nearly as young as he thought. She was still younger than him, for sure, but there was most certainly less of an age gap.

She was sipping her tea again as he mulled that over.

“Would you,” she put her cup down gently, not meeting his eyes. “Ever date again?”

It seemed almost too poignant of a question. It had Gold’s heartbeat racing.

“I can’t say.” He started slowly.

Her eyes dared to look up at him, and his breath caught. No, there could be no way.

“Not very many people interest me.” He started again, “and no one would ever like me.”

/

Belle was warming up by the second, although it wasn’t from the heat of Gold’s shop or the tea; it was from her racing heart. She was trying to assess him, trying to tell if he was interested back. It was proving to be difficult, and she was left rather unsure. Maybe she should just leave it and forget it altogether; it might be better. But then he said no one could ever like him, which struck her heart.

“What makes you think that?” Her voice raised, ready to combat him.

“I’m getting older. I’m limp.” There it was again.

Courage had gathered in Belle in her desire to build his confidence up.

“I think you are quite handsome.” She found herself saying. It hadn’t been quite scary to admit, as she had thought.

His eyes ducked away. “But you aren’t interested in me.”

Belle realized it was now, or never. Either she denied it or told the truth. She hadn’t ever been the sort to lie; she hadn’t been raised that way. If it complicated things, then so be it.

“But I am.”

His eyes looked at her, full of shock and disbelief. She had to break contact because it was almost too much.

“I only didn’t care to say anything, for I didn’t want to complicate things. Your Gideon’s father…” She didn’t know what else to supply.

“Yes, there has to be boundaries to this sort of thing.” He was nodding his head strictly, and Belle’s heart began to sink, a cold shiver working its way back.

But then Gold’s eyes were back on her soft and searching, desperate, hopeful almost.

“How can someone like you ever be interested in someone like me?” It was uttered like a hushed confession in a church.

Could she explain it? She wasn’t sure.

“I find you intriguing. And you have been ever so nice. So gentlemanly.”

He was twisting his hands together. Once Belle supplied her truth, she wasn’t sure where to go from there. Would they sit there in silence till Gold had to pick Gideon up?

“Belle, I…” Gold started slowly. “I think you’re beautiful.”

A warmth settled in her chest again.

“The most beautiful person I’ve ever seen. I find myself enraptured by you. I long to protect you, yet I fear getting too close.”

“You don’t have to.” She tried to assure him.

“Yes.” He nodded slowly. “It’s only… like you said… it’d complicate things… for Gideon.”

Belle nodded slowly. “I understand.” It didn’t make it any less painful.

She felt the urge to get up and did so. “We’ll go back to the way things were before then. We’ll only see each other for Sunday brunch. Or you could drop Gideon off to make things easier. We can forget all about this.” She was walking to his door. She wanted to leave and run to her apartment to break down in tears. Only, she remembered the terrible weather outside.

“Belle.” She heard his chair scraping, and she dared to look back; the tears felt eminent.

/

She liked him. It was almost too much. No, it was too much. She was right; it’d complicate things. He should have maintained better boundaries. But would it have stopped her from falling for him, even if he had? It’d be something he’d never understand. He barely believed it even now. He was nothing compared to her.

She’d started to the door, and he was worried about her running out. He rose from his chair to stop her.

“You can stay here till the power is back. Then, you can return to your apartment. I’ll go, pick up Gideon.”

He was at her side now, her arms hugging tightly around herself.

His hand fell to her arm instinctively, and her eyes met his. He knew then that everything was lost. It wasn’t even worth trying. He could understand if she didn’t like him, for how could she? He was old and cripple, such was his lot. It’d make things easier if she didn’t like him. He could have forced himself away if she hadn’t said she was interested in him. Only, she had. He might not be able to wrap his mind around it, but he was falling into it. The close distance between them shortened as they were puled together. Seconds ticked by as their heads leaned towards each other.

His lips met hers the next instant. His desire to know what they felt like was desperate. Belle gave a quiet, shocked gasp but didn’t pull away. Instead melting into his chest and kissing him back.

It felt nice, real. It was more real than anything Gold had ever experienced before. He pulled Belle tighter, half expecting her to fade away from him like some kind of dream. He broke away for air and she blinked her eyes slowly open in shock. His hand left her waist and brushed back her locks.

He should be apologizing. He shouldn’t have acted on impulse. Most certainly not without asking first. He stepped back, and Belle’s face turned to one of concern.

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have…” he stuttered. It appeared he’d lost himself completely.

She stepped back towards him, a hand cautiously placed over his wildly beating heart.

“I thought you agreed that this would complicate things?” She looked at him curiously.

“Yes, it’s sure to.” He was nodding. “And I’m sure you’ll never want to do that again.”

“What makes you say that?” Her hand was now at his jaw, coaxing him back to her lips. He was more than willing to return.

“Are you sure you’re not a dream?” He muttered, needing to make sure.

“Almost positive, Rupert.”

Their hands intertwined till Gold’s phone started going off.

“Oh, Gideon!” He almost leapt out of his skin.

“Answer it.” She stepped back.

He had to put her out of his thoughts to answer the phone, hand shaking slightly. Sure enough, it was the school.

“Gideon’s school has been cancelled for the day,” he told her. “I have to pick up Gideon. But you’ll stay here till the power comes back, yes?”

“I’m not leaving the warmth.” She chuckled, wrapping an arm around her again.

“Here.” He began pulling his shop key off of his key ring. “You can close up the shop when you leave.” He handed it over to her, the brush of her skin electric. “I’ll call to check up on you later.”

“I look forward to it.”

He stood there, unsure of how to say goodbye.

“You have to go now, Rupert.” She leaned up and kissed him quickly on the lips.

“Yes. I’ll see you later.” He sputtered out.

She nodded slowly.  “We’ll talk later.” 

/

Belle’s body didn’t know whether it wanted to be cold or warm. After some debate, she’d settled on wrapping one blanket around her, cautiously pacing around Gold’s shop. Curiosity got the better of her, and she poked around a bit. In her hand, she still clutched the key he’d given her, still lost in the sensation of his kiss.

“I thought you agreed that this would complicate things?”

“Yes, it’s sure to.”

She wasn’t sure what to make of it. Perhaps she should be fearful of how it would complicate things. Only, her chest felt warm inside, full of longing and hope.

Belle occupied herself in the shop. She noticed the lights of other shops across the street come on and realized the power must be on. She turned the radio in the back of the shop on, listening to the announcement that power had been restored. Belle knew then she had to go back to her apartment. Belle left the blanket in the shop, folding it nicely and placing it away with the other. Then Belle braved the cold winds to close the shop up behind her. Belle raced to her apartment, racing inside. Thankfully, it was warm inside, and all power was working. Belle set about making some food, leaving her phone on the counter and waiting for his call.

She began to worry he wouldn’t call as she finished her meal and began to get ready for bed. But then it came. She answered instantly.

“Rupert?”

“I heard the power is back.”

“Yes, I’m back home now. The heat seems to be working fine, thankfully. I made myself some dinner. Belle sat down in her bed, twirling a finger through her hair. “Locked up your shop.”

“Thank you for doing that. And I’m glad to hear you’re okay.”

There was an awkward pause, neither of them knowing how to fill it.

“How’s Gideon?” She asked.

“Yes, fine.”

“Shall I give you your key back tomorrow?” She’d left it on her counter by the front door.

“Yes. I have a spare. But I’d still like it back.”

Another pause.

“Then maybe…” Gold began and Belle waited for him. “We could talk.”

“Yes, I’d like that.” She replied, perhaps too quickly.

“Good. I’ll see you tomorrow then at nine. Oh, but you have to be at the library.” He seemed to realize.

“It’s fine, Rupert. I have some volunteers coming in tomorrow.”

“Alright, very well then. That’s all?”

“I think so.”

“I’ll wish you good night then.”

“Yes, good night, Rupert.” She bit her lip, hesitant to hang up, but forced herself to do so.

Tomorrow, she could handle it.

Chapter Text

If Belle called in sick for work, it was only because her nerves were a wreck. She woke up at two at night and couldn’t get back to sleep, so she took a shower. Now, she was fretting over what she’d wear, thinking that maybe this would complicate things too much. What if it went horribly? Then what would they say to Gideon? The weather looked to be cold again, so Belle put on some leggings under a dress. She did still aim to look her best, to be as enticing as possible. Gold’s shop key felt cold in her hand when she picked it up; it wasn’t even nine yet, and she was antsy to go.

Would he kiss her again? She almost hoped he might. The memory sent warm tingles down her body. God, she could barely remember feeling this way; she hadn’t for a long time.

The clock ticked, and she did her best to distract herself until she finally felt she would head out and give herself enough time to walk over.

When she approached the shop’s front, she found the lights on inside, though the curtains were slightly closed, and the sign didn’t read open. She thought about going round the back before trying the handle, and the door opened.

“Rupert?” She called, walking in. “Are you here?” She’d closed everything up before she left, so it had to be him.

“Belle,” his voice lifted from the back of the shop as he slowly pushed the curtain away, looking at her like she was a dream he was scared would drift away.

“I have your key.” She held it up.

“Yes. Thank you.” He slowly approached, barely meeting her eyes, and she returned the key to him.

“Let me close the front door.” He was moving and locked it.

Belle was trying to think of what to say and where they should start.

“Would you like to go to the back room?” He was asking.

“Okay,” she agreed all too easily.

She felt nervous as they entered the back room, but he was still moving. “Tea?”

“I’m okay, Rupert.” She didn’t think now was exactly an appropriate time for tea.

Rupert seemed at a loss with nothing to do, with nothing else to focus his attention on.

“So, were we going to talk about last night, or?” She started.

“I’m sorry.” He was wringing his cane, looking as nervous as ever. “I haven’t done this in a while.”

A smile graced her lips, almost putting at ease that he was just as nervous as she was.

“You’re cute when you’re nervous.” She approached slowly, placing a hesitant hand over the one on his cane to stop his motions. He caught her eyes then, breath hitching.

“I think I’m anything else but.”

Did he really think so little of himself? Belle was caught up in his eyes, wanting to kiss him again. But they needed to talk about this first.

“You, however,” Rupert continued, his eyes passing over her.

“Why thank you, Rupert.” She smiled, taking a small step back.

“And surely you can’t be interested in me.”

“Why are you so insistent on that?” She hated to hear him say it.

“I’m too old for you.” He was shaking his head.

“And how old are you then?”

He wrung his hands around his cane, dropping his gaze. “Thirty-eight.”

“That’s not that old.”

“Seven years your senior.”

“Doesn’t bother me in the least.”

“But…”

Anger flickered through her, and she was in his personal space again.

“I don’t want to hear another word against it, Rupert. Alright? Now, what concerns me more is Gideon.”

“Yes. Quite right.” He was nodding, and she took a step back. “Yes.”

“I only think if things were to go poorly…” she didn’t want to finish the sentence. “I can’t lose Gideon again. And I know how deeply you care for him as well. You already warned me of breaking his heart.”

Gold hummed. “So this whole thing never happened then, as you suggested.”

“I’d rather not.” She was approaching him again. “I just would want to be careful. To not break his heart.”

“But wouldn’t it be easier…”

“Would it? Always seeing each other, knowing… fighting an urge.” He had to feel it too. Belle was certain he did after his sudden kiss last night.

“I think I know what you are talking about.” His eyes flickered to her lips. “Then what do you propose?”

“We won’t tell Gideon. He can’t be hurt if he doesn’t know.”

He was nodding again. Belle hoped it was sensible. It still felt dangerous, but she was willing to give it a shot and hoped he would be too.

“And in the meantime?” His voice was slightly raised, apprehensive.

“Well,” Her hand ran up to his chest. “I think I’d quite like it if you kissed me again.”

/

It was so easy to fall back into her lips. Gold’s hand snaked around her back, pulling her tight. To hell with it, Gold thought. A beautiful woman was asking him to kiss her. Who was he to deny her?

He broke away to bring his hand to her face, enraptured by her beauty.

“Have I told you how beautiful you are?” He asked.

“You have implied many a time. Though I do like hearing it. “

She was leaning against his chest, warm and solid. His hand went back to her waist. He didn’t want her to move. He wasn’t even sure what this was, but he most certainly wasn’t about to let it go.

“So what are you doing today?” She asked, plucky, so full of life.

“Just taking inventory of my stock. Maybe finishing the book you recommended me.”

“I should find you some more books.” She patted his chest lightly. “It’ll give me a task to do. Maybe I can tempt you with some more romance books.”

“I’ll be happy with whatever you find me.”

She was smiling at him, and he dared to stroke his thumb across her hip. He wanted to kiss her again, to have her stay longer. But that was most certainly all too much at once.

“You should be getting back to your library, shouldn’t you?” He made no attempt to part from her, however.

“I may have called in sick.” She ducked her head.

“You’re not sick, are you?” He began to worry, his hand coming to coax her face towards him, to ensure she looked fine.

“I’m fine, Rupert. Only, my stomach was in knots over…well, this. Barely got any sleep.”

“Me neither.” He smiled and wasn’t able to help himself from kissing her again.

She was pulling herself closer to him as they deepened the kiss, and he had to force himself away.

“I do hope I don’t continue to make you feel this way, for I don’t want to take you away from your job.”

“It’s fine, Rupert.” She gave a light sigh. “I like feeling this way.”

She was too good to be true.

“But I’m sure you have work to do, so I’ll leave you.”

She made a move to pull away, but his hand clutched her waist tightly. “Wait.” His heart picked up, scared about her leaving. “Perhaps we could go on a date. Just you and me. I’ll call Marco, and he can watch Gideon.”

She was smiling again. “I’d like that. When would be this said date?”

“Tomorrow. After your work.”

“Delightful. And where shall we go?” She was getting closer again.

“Tony’s.” He sputtered out.

She chuckled. “Much nicer than Granny’s, isn’t it?”

He hummed, agreeing.

“Everyone will assume we’re on a date.”

“They already assume we are together.”

“I thought you were trying to correct that?”

“Hasn’t been successful.”

She hummed, leaning against him. “Well, I think it sounds wonderful. You’ll pick me up?”

“Of course.” He wouldn’t have it any other way.

Her lips touched his, and they were lost for another few minutes before Belle was the one to pull away this time.

“Alright.” She breathed in. “I should get going now.”

“I’ll walk you out.” He walked her to the door and held it open for her.

“Bye, Rupert.” She left with one last kiss planted on his cheek.

-

Gold could understand why Belle didn’t want to tell Gideon. There was no point in getting his hopes up in something that’d surely end, as much as Gold hoped it wouldn’t. He didn’t want to think of that happening. If it did, he’d still have to live near her, and that’d be ten times worse.

Gold had been barely able to come up with a lie about a shipment coming in late. He wasn’t even sure if Gideon believed him. He’d never been particularly good at lying to Gideon because he hated doing so. But it was for the best.

He put on his best suit and a blue tie like the one Belle picked out on his return from the hospital. There was a cold breeze to the evening air, and he hoped Belle would be dressed warm enough.

She was waiting outside her apartment building. She wore a short, stunning blue dress with leggings, and a cardigan. Her purse hung over her shoulder. She was hugging herself close, waiting for him as he pulled up. He wanted to get out and help her in, but she was already at the door.

“Hello, Rupert.” She smiled as she slid in.

“You look lovely.” He stuttered.

“Thank you.” She leaned over and gave him a  quick peck. He doubted he’d ever get used to it.

“You look very handsome yourself.”

“Thank you.”

There was a brief voice that sounded like Milah’s in the back of his mind, telling him that Belle was playing him for a laugh, that she pitied him. There could be no way she could like him, let alone think he was handsome, because he wasn’t handsome; he could never be.

“Shall we go then?” Belle had buckled up and broke him out of his trance.

“Yes.” He put the car back into drive.

When they arrived at the restaurant, Gold helped her from the car, and she put her hand on his arm.

“How was your work today?” He asked, needing something to talk about.

“Oh, fine. Yourself?”

“Yes, fine.” It had been boring; it always was.

“I found some more books I think you might like. You’ll have to come by to pick them up.” She squeezed his arm, floating closer.

The next thing Gold knew, they were inside, the hostess greeting them. “A table for how many?”

“Two.” Gold quickly supplied.

“Mr. Gold.” The server smiled, his accent thick. “A pleasure as always, and with the lovely lady again.”

Belle smiled in return.

“Do you know what you’d like tonight?”

“Chicken parmesan.” Gold supplied quickly, “And I’ll take that bottle of wine tonight.”

“Of course. And you Mademoiselle?”

Belle had only picked up her menu. Gold cursed himself for not giving her more time.

“I think I’ll have the same.” She put down her menu with a smile at the server.

“Coming right up.” The server smiled, collecting their menus and disappearing off.

“I’m sorry. I should have given you more time to decide.” Gold said.

“Oh, it’s alright. I like chicken parmesan.” She was smiling again, and Gold felt himself at ease.

The server came back within a second with the wine. “Our best, I assure you, Mr. Gold.” He went on a long spiel about the wine. Gold only half listened, watching as the server poured it gracefully into the glasses.

“Thank you,” Gold told him once he was done. He took a sip and nodded in approval, sending the server off once more.

Belle took a cautious sip across from him, and Gold suddenly was at a loss of what on earth to talk about again. He opened his mouth to say something right as Belle began. They ended up talking over each other in bumbled words.

“Sorry.” She chuckled, a blush on her cheeks. “You go.”

“No, you.” He insisted. He hadn’t even been sure what he was going to say anyway.

“Well, I was just going to ask if you had a favourite book?”

“I’m not sure.” He thought about it for a while. “Hard to say.” Then, a smile crossed his lips as he thought of something. “Maybe, Goodnight Moon.”

Belle chuckled.

“I quite enjoyed reading it to Gideon. He seemed to like it. You said your mother read to you lots.”

“Oh yes. Everything from Goodnight Moon to The Iliad. She didn’t care much about whether it was meant for kids or not.”

Gold smiled. “And why do you like books so much?”

“It’s a chance to slip away, somewhere else, somewhere magical or romantic. I love stories that thrill and entice me, that draw me right in.”

Gold nodded, knowing what she meant.

“Do you enjoy reading, or is it more of a hobby, a pastime?” She asked.

“I do thoroughly enjoy it. I enjoy getting lost in the story, as you say, in the particular way an author writes. I was glad Gideon liked reading. I like to think it encouraged his creativity and his imagination. And they say that it helps with academics, being well read.”

Belle nodded along as he took another sip of his wine. “Very true. I’m always glad to see the kids still coming into the library. I often worry about people not reading as much with the rise of technology.”

“Oh, I doubt reading will ever truly die. There’s nothing quite like a physical book, the act of turning a page.”

“And the smell.” She added.

“Indeed.” He smiled. “Do you have any other interests besides books?”

“Not exactly. I tried to pick up knitting once in college, afraid I was rather terrible.”

He chuckled at that.

“My interests were learning whatever I was studying when at college. And now, the library keeps me so busy, I don’t have time for anything else.”

“But you like it?”

“Oh, I do, no doubt. It had been a dream of mine.” Her hands folded on top of the table. “Though I have always wanted to do some travelling. Never had enough money, I’m afraid.”

“Where would you like to go?”

“Anywhere in Europe, I think. Paris, Rome, Italy. Have you ever travelled?”

“My foster mother was originally from Scotland, so she’d take me there every summer.”

“You don’t talk about her much, your foster mother.”

“She wasn’t exactly like the sort of loving mother you seem to have had with yours. Fiona was descended from a long-forgotten Scottish nobility. She had been raised in a very high-class home, and despite her grace and elegance, she could never find herself someone she thought was eligible to wed. But she was still adamant on having a child to pass on her title and inheritance.”

“So she adopted you.” Belle supplied.

“Indeed. I was already a few years older, thirteen. I’d been passed around many a foster home and was sure I’d never be adopted. Fiona liked that I was older; she wasn’t keen on adopting an excited child who’d run around, trash her house and not listen to a word she said. When she adopted me, I was so scared of being brought back that I listened and obeyed. It wasn’t bad. She was never cruel to me. Harsh and strict, most certainly. She liked things to be done a certain way, for people to act a certain way. It was all rather traditional.”

Gold took a breath, swirling his wine around. “She took care of me, and for that, I appreciate her. But when she died, which was shortly after I married, I can’t say there were any tears shed.”

“I’m sorry to hear that, Rupert.” Belle’s voice was soft and sympathetic.

Gold hummed, not wanting to make a thing out of it.

“So she gave you everything then after she died?”

“Oh yes. As I said, Fiona had arranged to give me a small lump sum of her fortune once I was wed, and then when she died, I inherited everything else. It has been nice being assured that I have enough to care for myself and Gideon. And there will be plenty left to pass onto him once I pass on.”

“Is Scotland nice?” Belle asked as the server arrived with their food.

“If you like fields and sheer face cliffs.”

“It sounds lovely.”

“I might have a few pictures lying around I could show you.”

“I’d like that.”

“Would you ever want to go back to Australia?” He asked as they both started cutting into their chicken.

 “Maybe. But I don’t have as much of a strong desire to visit there.”

“Do you remember any of it?”

“No.” She shook her head again. “We lived in Melbourne, so it just felt like any other city. At least here in Storybrooke, you get a sense of it being a unique, small town.”

“You prefer the small towns then?”

“Most certainly. I like seeing familiar faces and getting to know your neighbours, the sense of community. You don’t get that in a big city.”

Gold nodded.

“Did you live in the city before?”

“No. I lived in mostly suburbs while in the foster system. Then small towns like this. Not that I was ever involved in the community, as you say. Milah wanted to move to the city, but I’m not one for the bustling crowds. And after Fiona died, we got her house, which was large enough to satisfy Milah.”

Gold took some bites of his food. He didn’t want to think of Milah, most certainly not with Belle here.

“How long did you say you were together? I can’t remember if you said.”

“Three years legally. Though she only stayed for two.”

“Right.” Belle twirled her spaghetti around her fork. “And you adopted Gideon shortly after you moved here.”

“Yes, I must have been here maybe two years at most.”

“Yes, that’d make sense. I’d have been moved off to college then.”

He nodded, twirling spaghetti around his fork. “Did you have anything serious before Grant?”

“God, no. I had some dates, but that was all they ever were. I did have a high school sweetheart. His name was Thomas, but we broke up before graduation. It was for the best, really. It’d never work.”

Gold nodded, and they ate some more of their meal in relative quiet for a few minutes.

“Would you want to travel anywhere?” Belle asked.

“I don’t know. Though I have thought Gideon might like to take a trip one summer. I don’t know where we’d go. Surely, he’d want to go to some theme park, which I’d absolutely despise.”

Belle chuckled. “Not one for thrill rides?”

“I went to a fair one fall with Gideon. We went on the teacups. Never again.” He was shaking his head, and she was laughing. He almost didn’t want her to stop.

“I loved rides as a kid, but I got too sick the last time I went. So I can understand where you’re coming from.” She took a bite of her spaghetti.

“Are you enjoying your meal?”

“Oh yes.” She wiped her mouth off on the napkin. “It’s delicious.”

“Gideon’s favourite spaghetti.”

“I can see why.”

“And you’re enjoying the wine?”

“Oh yes, quite nice as well.”

He was glad she was enjoying herself.

“So what else do you like to do?” She asked after another bite of chicken.

“I like gardening.”

She nodded, looking impressed.

“I also like repairing the old things that come into my shop. It’s very satisfying getting something old working or looking new again.”

“You must have so many things come into that shop of yours.”

“Oh yes. Many an old, cherished thing. I think they’re all deserving of new homes.”

She smiled again as he focused back on the dinner before him.

They had finished their food in no time, and Gold asked if she cared for dessert.

“No, I can’t possibly. But thank you.”

“I’ll pay for the bill.” He insisted.

Her hand was back on his arm as they walked from the restaurant. Gold was feeling on high, surprised it’d been such a success. When he was dropping her off, he was insistent on helping her to her apartment door.

“Thank you, Rupert. This evening was lovely.” Her lips met his cheek again, and it was enough to send his heart fluttering.

“Perhaps you’d like to do so again?” He asked, hopeful.

“I would,” She said. And then she was gone.

Chapter Text

It was hard to act like everything was normal at Sunday brunch. Gold felt flustered and awkward. Gideon was excited, as always, to see Belle, asking her to help him with a word search. Every once in a while, Gideon would look up at Gold and smile before turning back to his word search. Gold wondered if Gideon could sense the change between him and Belle, but Gideon hadn’t mentioned anything.

Gideon caught Belle up on everything that was happening in his life. One of Gideon’s best friends had just announced a birthday party.

“John says he’s going to do laser tag for his birthday. I’ve never been before, so I’m excited.” Gideon told her.

“Oh, that does sound like fun.”

“John always has cool parties. And it’s always a sleepover. Last year, we went bowling, and the year before that, we made tie-dye t-shirts.”

Gideon finished off the last of his breakfast. “And then it’ll be Christmas break. We get a whole two weeks off.” He was fidgeting in his seat. “Do you think I could come over for a sleepover again?”

“That’s still pretty far away, Gideon. But if your father’s alright with it, I don’t see why not.”

Gideon looked at him. “Of course.” Gold was saying all too easily.

“And then maybe you’d like to come over for Christmas with us.” Gideon continued. “We make a big dinner and watch movies and open presents, of course.”

“That’s sounds like fun.” Belle was smiling.

Gold imagined her there, smiling at Gideon. Maybe he could hold her hand if things hadn’t changed by then. He felt like it might just be enough time to have figured things out by then, just maybe.

 /

It was nearly time for Belle to close up the library, and she was finishing logging everything into the computer system. She caught the door opening and looked up to find that it was only Rupert.

“Rupert.” She smiled. “I was just about to close up.”

“Yes, I had thought.”

She looked at the time, noticing it was past six, and she really should have locked up by now. “Excuse me for a moment.” She was up and around the desk to lock the door from the inside.

“I still have some things to finish up here. Oh, but I have your books for you. They’re right over here.” She started back to the counter. “Ah, here.” She handed them over.

“Thank you. Do you need help with anything?”

“No, I’ll be a moment.” She quickly worked away at the computer. “Have you just come to say hi, or?”

“Well, yes.” He looked nervous; it was cute. “Gideon’s got that after-school thing.”

“Oh yes. The games thing. I remember.” Belle had been slightly confused when Gideon had explained it to her. If the parents allowed them to stay, the teachers were pulling some sort of outdoor games event for the kids after school. Gideon had been very excited about it.

“So I thought I could stop by.”

“Well, I appreciate it.” She smiled at him, finishing her computer work and turning it off.

“I thought I might invite you on another date on your day off on Thursday. We could go on a walk. If it’s not too cold, a picnic perhaps?”

“Oh, that sounds lovely.” She got up and approached him. “I’d love to.” She kissed him then.

“Wonderful.” He stuttered out, and she chuckled quietly. He was so charming despite being so nervous and a tad awkward around her.

“When do you have to pick up Gideon?”

“Not for another hour.” He looked at his watch.

“Well, I would tempt you for a quick sandwich from Granny’s. Only, I know how much you hate it.”

“They’re horrendous, but if you’d like.”

“No, I have leftovers that need to be eaten.” She gazed over at the stack of books she picked out for him. “I think you’ll particularly like these ones.” She tapped them.

“Oh, I’m sure I will.”

“This one’s a mystery romance thriller. Quite enthralling.”

He hummed, vaguely intrigued.

“You’ll probably tell me it’s a trashy pop novel or something.”

“Only if it is.”

She chuckled again and slowly began to move towards him. She was desperate to kiss him, and now that they were alone, she couldn’t help herself.

He melted into it, his hand snaking around her waist, pulling her tighter; it got her heart racing. The kiss continued too long, one kiss melting into another. It was Gold who drew away, stepping back to recenter himself, his hand immediately going to his bad leg.

“Are you alright?” She asked, concerned.

“Fine.” He waved her away. “My leg doesn’t particularly like the cold. Much like you.” His eyes were back on her.

“We could sit down if you’d like.”

“Maybe I should get going.”

She grabbed his other hand tightly on instinct. “Rupert.” She didn’t know where to start. Clearly, his leg was a sensitive subject.

“You don’t have to go so quickly.” She drew his lips back to hers. “And if you ever need to sit, you can just say so.”

He said nothing in response.

“What time will you come to pick me up on Thursday for our date?” She asked.

“Should eleven do? We’ll make a lunch out of it.”

“Then I shall hope we have nice weather so that maybe we could have that picnic.”

“I hope so too.” There was a hint of a smile on his lips, and he kissed her again. “I’ll walk you out.”

She agreed and turned off the power before exiting the library and locking it behind her. Rupert walked her to her apartment, and she kissed his cheek goodbye.

-

It was a bit chilly of a day on Thursday, but otherwise, it was nice. Belle came down from her apartment to find Rupert already waiting, holding a basket.

“Good morning, Rupert.” She greeted him with a smile.

He was staring at her in awe, too stunned to give her a greeting.

“Would you like me to carry the basket for you?”

“Oh.” He jumped to action. “If you’d like.”

She took it gracefully, too curious not to peer inside. She spied sandwiches.

“I hope it is to your liking.”

“I’m sure it will be.” She smiled at him. “Shall we head out then?” She took his arm, and he nodded with a smile, so they were off.

They talked about the books Belle lent Rupert as they walked to the path along the waterfront. The cool breeze went right through Belle’s thin cardigan, and she shivered.

“Don’t you have any warmer sweaters?” Rupert asked.

“Maybe I was hoping you’d give me your jacket.” She smiled at him, and he blushed.

“I do hate to see you shivering.” He removed his jacket in the next second and placed it over her shoulder. Belle smiled with a hint of a blush, pleased.

They continued to walk and talk lightly. Belle was warm, enjoying the beautiful day outside with Rupert’s jacket over her. They had walked a fair way, and when Belle stopped to get a view out across the water, she noticed Rupert massaging his knee out of the corner of her eye. She felt horrible for not even thinking about him and his leg.

“Are you alright? Is your leg bothering you? Maybe we should sit down and have our lunch now.” She was sputtering out.

“Yes, I’d like that.”

Belle took his arm, and they found a spot of grass to sit. Gold fell slowly down, appearing quite relieved to be sitting.

“Rupert, you can tell me when your leg is bothering you. I won’t look down on you any less because of it.” She assured him.

“Yes, well.” He was already gathering the basket from where she’d placed it down, opening it up.

“Do you want to talk about it?” She asked carefully. “Your leg, I mean.”

He focused on pulling their sandwiches from the basket, and she felt certain he did not want to discuss it.

“It’s nothing.” He muttered. “Here. Ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise.”

“Thank you.” She took the sandwich from him.

“I also brought some fruit and some tea in a thermos.”

She chuckled. “You’ve outdone yourself, Rupert.”

“Shall I pour you some tea?” He asked.

“Yes. I’d like that.”

He pulled out his fine chinaware cups from the basket, carefully wrapped in a blanket. She chuckled at it and yet was delighted.

He poured the warm tea into a cup, and she held it close, taking a sip. He was pouring his own before she took a bite of her sandwich. It was delicious.

“It was a car accident,” Rupert said, startling Belle.

“What?” She was confused.

“I was in a car accident only a few months after I married Milah.”

Belle suddenly realized what he was saying. It was how he injured his leg.

“I was bedridden for days. It was horrible lying there, thinking I’d never have the same life again. It felt like everything had been taken from me.” He fiddled with the basket, not meeting her eyes. “Milah had no desire to be my nurse for the rest of her life, and I was determined to walk again. The doctors had assured me I would be able to. But my leg was permanently damaged. I manage to get by.”

“Milah,” Belle wanted to be careful with her next words. “Did she treat you poorly after your accident?”

He nodded slowly.

“It’s not right, Rupert. I’m glad you got away from her.”

“I am too.”

Belle reached out to his hand. “Thank you for telling me. I can tell it’s a sensitive subject for you. And I can understand why.”

His hand squeezed hers, and he finally looked up with a small smile. Belle squeezed back.

“You are too kind, Belle.”

“I think everyone should be.”

“Indeed.” He let go of her hand. “How is the sandwich?”

“Oh, delightful.”

/

Moments were stolen frequently in the upcoming days—brief visits on lunch breaks, before and after work. The next Thursday was another date out in the park. Sundays with Gideon continued awkwardly, and Gideon did ask once why his father seemed so nervous. Gold did his best to play it off, unsure if he’d successfully convinced Gideon. But Gideon never said anything more to it. Whether or not the town was talking more about them remained unknown to them, but they didn’t much care if someone saw them out.

“Let them talk.” Gold thought.

He found himself not caring as much, for as long as Belle was even in close proximity to him, he was enriched.

Chapter Text

Belle had come over to Gold’s shop for her lunch break. Gold had been expecting her, making her a sandwich and preparing tea. However, the sandwich and tea were forgotten in favour of making out in the back of the shop. It was like every sensible part of Gold left when her lips met his, or when she arrived. He treasured the way she felt under his hand, her lips on his. He enjoyed the small noises he could draw from her. Gold was, of course, always gentlemanly, though he was holding on by a mere thread. He wouldn’t let it break, though. No, not yet. It hadn’t even been a month since this whole thing began.

“If we keep this up, you’ll be late back to the library.” Gold chuckled against her lips. His leg was starting to ache, though he found it easy to ignore when he was near her. “And I’m sure the tea’s gone cold.”

Belle chuckled, and he moved away to sit at the table.

“Fine, I suppose I am rather hungry.” She joined him. “Has Gideon got his present for that party?”

“Oh yes, we went Wednesday after school. He picked out some board game. I’m not quite sure what it was. But he seemed happy with it.”

She had started eating her sandwich. “Is it nice when Gideon is away for a day, or do you miss him too much?”

“Very much the latter.” He told her. “I wouldn’t even let him go to his first sleepover till he was eight. I kept imagining all the horrid things that could happen to him. I could only protect him as long as he was under my watch.”

She hummed.

“And the house is lonely without him.” He sipped his cold tea, the beginnings of a thought starting in his mind.

“I always had such fun times at sleepovers. Did you ever get to go to some?” She asked.

“Once or twice, I believe. Other foster kids. I never really had any friends.”

She looked so sorry for him, and he wished he hadn’t said anything. “Perhaps you’d like to come over for dinner with Gideon gone.” It fell quickly from his lips.

“Oh, I’d love that.”

-

This was a bad idea. It was a terrible idea. Gold had dropped Gideon off at his party and returned to his house only to start fretting over the idea of Belle coming over for dinner to his empty house. It was a terrible idea.

Gold busied himself in preparing the dinner, lasagna. He wondered if Gideon had noticed his nerves that morning. Perhaps Gideon had knocked it up to him spending the night elsewhere. Gold did get nervous over that too. But Belle was coming over, and it was something else to be nervous about. He wanted everything to be perfect.

He pulled the wine out of the cabinet and found some candles; a little romantic flare couldn’t hurt.

The next thing he knew, there was a knock at his door, and his heart skipped a beat. He didn’t even check if it was Belle, but thankfully it was. She was wearing a stunning yellow lace dress, a gray cardigan hanging over her. Her hair and makeup were done to perfection.

“Belle,” he held the door open for her, and she stepped in, her perfume wafting. It was enough to make him almost faint.

“You look very handsome tonight, Rupert.” She kissed his cheek before taking off her purse and cardigan. It left her shoulders bare, and he thought of the goosebumps she must have gotten from the cold in her short walk from her car to his door.

“You look stunning.” He uttered, and she blushed. “Come in. Dinner is served.”

Dinner was surprisingly easy. Conversations flowed. It, of course, was Belle’s favourite topic: books. But Gold could listen to her talk about books and authors all day long. Her voice was beautiful. She was complimenting his cooking before finishing off her glass of wine. Gold started to pour her another before remembering she had to drive home and only filled it halfway.

“I have dessert.” He told her when she’d finished her meal.

“I don’t know if I have room for more.” She laughed.

“It’s just some cake. But we could wait for dinner to settle.” He didn’t want her to leave quite yet.

“Alright.” She smiled. “Do you mind if I use the washroom?”

“Go right ahead.”

When she was gone, he took the time to clean up the table, stacking the dishwasher. She had floated back, for he was graced with her perfume.

“I was going to help you clean up.”

“You’re my guest.” He insisted. The next minute, his hand was on her waist, and he was holding her close.

“Maybe we could watch something in the living room?” He suggested.

“You have tempted me with that cake now.”

“I thought you said you were too full?”

“I could manage a few bites.”

“Alright.” He chuckled and released her to open the fridge.

“It’s a fudge cake Gideon and I made the other day. He won’t notice one slice missing.”

Gold placed the cake on the counter and found a small plate to place a piece on. He handed the plate over, and she took her first bite. Her eyes closed, and she was moaning at the taste. It was almost too much.

“This is delicious.”

“I’m glad you like it.” Gold quickly busied himself by putting the rest of the cake away. “Shall we move to the living room?”

Belle brought the cake with her as Gold turned on the TV, searching for something to watch.

“Gideon must get his cooking skills from you because I’ve never made anything this good before,” Belle told him. “Did you want a bite?” She was raising her fork, and he found himself opening his mouth.

The cake was sweet and rich as Gold remembered it being.

“And I thought you were trying to be healthy.” Belle chuckled, stealing another bite for herself.

“I let Gideon indulge every once in a while.”

Gold had found the old-times classics channel. It looked to be a rerun of I Love Lucy or something. Belle was suddenly leaning next to him, offering him the last bite. While the episode was a nice distraction, Gold was quite enjoying Belle’s weight and warmth next to him. He reached over to brush her hair back from her shoulder, and her eyes caught his.

“Have I told you that you smell lovely?” He stroked her hair.

She blushed. “Well, I did wear my favourite perfume. Lilac something.”

The floral scent was intoxicating.

“And I quite like your cologne. Sandalwood?”

“You noticed?”

“Only when you gave me your jacket.”

The next moment, they were kissing, Belle’s hair half in Gold’s fingers. His hand traced to her side, the lace of her dress soft beneath his fingers. When she drew away for breath, his lips found her neck, and she was gasping. He could feel the tremor beneath his lips and dared to do so again.

“Rupert,” his name was hearty on her lips, and her hands were at his face, drawing his lips back. He was only too happy to return.

Whatever new episode was playing on the TV was forgotten as she was slipping closer, her tongue in his mouth.

God, they needed to stop.

“Belle.” He forced himself away, heart beating rapidly. “God,” he muttered as he cupped her face. “You’re absolutely amazing.”

“As are you, Rupert.” He wasn’t sure if he’d ever get used to her complimenting him.

“I really enjoyed tonight.”

“As did I.” She brought her hand to where he was cupping her face, interlocking their fingers.

“I don’t have to go quite yet,” she was leaning in again, lips tempting him.

He barely managed to pull away. “I don’t know if it’s such a good idea.”

“Why not?” She was cocking her head, hardly feigning innocence.

“I don’t know if I’ll be able to stop myself.”

“And what if I don’t want you to?”

She was all too close again, and the walls fell all too easily.

/

Belle woke slowly, feeling quite well slept. The foreign smells and sights overwhelmed her senses as she rolled over on the bed. Then, it all came flashing back.

Rupert kissed her, his hand ever present at her waist, pulling her tighter. Her heart was racing, his lips at her neck. God, that had done it; it had been enough to send her over the edge. She always kind of hoped that dinner would have led to this but was worried he’d be too gentlemanly. And well, he had, just in a very different way.

“If you’re staying, then maybe you’d like to go to my room?” He’d sounded even unsure then.

The moment they were in his bedroom, however, it was all back to the passionate, heated kisses and back onto the bed. Belle pulled his jacket off between them. But the minute she was at his buttons, he stopped her.

“I have scars and…”

“Rupert, I’ll find you handsome no matter what.”

There was a rather large scar over his heart, a stark reminder of his heart attack. She didn’t want to think of it and kissed over the scar.

Rupert’s hands had been careful as ever with her zipper, mouth trailing down her back as her dress came off. He worshiped her at every move and every turn, telling her how beautiful she was.

“Rupert.” She shut him up with some more kisses.

He had been gentlemanly as ever, but boy, did it feel wonderful.

She rolled over to find him still asleep next to her. He’d gone to sleep naked as she, wearing only underwear. She placed her head against his chest, listening to his slow heartbeat as she traced his scar. Slowly, he stirred.

“Belle.” His arm came around her and in her hair. “It hadn’t been a dream then.”

“No, but it was just as wonderful as a dream.” She kissed him.

He hummed against her, fingers tracing patterns over her hip.

“Shall I make us breakfast?”

“Sounds lovely.”

“Does mean getting up.” He did not attempt to move, still stroking her side.

“We could stay in bed a bit longer.”

He hummed as if liking the sound and drew her in for another kiss. “As much as I want that. I would much prefer to get some food in you before I have to get Gideon.”

“Very well.” She rolled off him to allow him to get up.

He started picking up their clothes, placing her dress over a chair and throwing his things in a hamper. Then he was getting dressed. Belle watched him, though he never met her eyes.

“I’ll call you when breakfast is ready.” He said when he was dressed. He came over to kiss her before leaving the room.

Belle got up and began opening his drawers, finding his tops. She wanted to see how he’d react, but first, she had to go to the washroom. A few seconds later, she came down in his shirt and her underwear.

“Belle,” He hissed out when he saw her.

“Like it?” She reached his chest, leaning close to him.

“You’ll be giving me another heart attack.”

“Don’t say that, Rupert.” She smacked his chest lightly. “I don’t like to think of you when you were in the hospital.”

“My apologies, darling.”

She hummed at the pet name. “I do like hearing you call me that, though.” She kissed his lips.

“Darling?” He asked.

“Yes.”

He was stroking her side as she looped her arms around his neck.

“Belle?”

“Yes?”

“Would you like to go serious?”

“Are you asking me to be your girlfriend, Rupert?” She couldn’t contain her giggle.

“I think I am.”

“Yes, I’d love to.” She kissed his lips again.

“I thought maybe we might tell Gideon at Christmas, maybe. It’ll have been a month by then.”

“Are you sure?”

“Good things don’t happen very frequently for me. I’m not about to let you go.” He held her a bit tighter.

“I’m glad to hear it because I don’t plan on going anywhere.”

Chapter Text

Christmas break for Gideon had begun, and it was decided over Sunday brunch that he could stay at Belle’s for New Year’s and that she’d come over for Christmas. Rupert fumbled awkwardly over how they might go about telling Gideon about them.

“Maybe after presents, at dinner.” He suggested.

Belle felt just as nervous about telling Gideon, but having to pretend had been hard. It’d been hard to not reach for Rupert’s hand or arm or pull close to him. It’d be nice to get to do all those things once Gideon knew. And she was sure he’d be overjoyed, for how could he not when he was her father, and she was her mother. It was almost too good to be true.

The plan was that Belle was going to come over at noon, at which time they’d open presents, maybe watch some movies, then have dinner. It all sounded very lovely. She’d had a bit of a struggle shopping, picking out gifts for the pair of them, but finally, she felt she’d found the right things. Rupert had assured her she needn’t get him anything too fancy, that he’d be quite glad with something simple. She already suspected that he was not going to get her something simple at all and was prepared for it.

It was Christmas day, and Belle now had her wrapped presents under her arm as she knocked on their door. Gideon was the first to greet her with a warm, friendly smile.

“Hi, mom!” He said cheerfully. She’d never get used to hearing him call her that. “Merry Christmas.”

“Merry Christmas to you too.” She stepped into the house, glad to be out of the cold.

“Are those my presents?” Gideon asked, spying them under her arm.

“Some for your father too.”

Rupert had come to hover by the front entrance. Belle gave him a quick smile, desperately wishing she could kiss him in greeting.

“Why don’t you show Belle to the tree?” Rupert told Gideon.

“Come on.” Gideon took her hand, pulling her into the living room. A freshly cut evergreen tree stood largely in the living room, decorated and lit. The rest of the living room was decorated too. It was beautiful and filled Belle with that same sense of awe she’d felt around Christmas when she was a child.

“This is a beautiful tree.” She said, approaching it to put her presents with the few lying under it.

“You want to see the decorations?” Gideon asked her. “Here’s one I made.” It was a paper cutout of a snowflake. “And this one papa got me for my eighth birthday.” This one was a little snowman with the number eight on it.

Gideon showed her all the delicate ornaments. They looked like something right out of Rupert’s shop.

“You must have to be really careful when decorating the tree.” Belle figured.

“Oh yes. But I’ve never broken anything so far.” Gideon found another ornament. “This one’s for Neal.” It was a white dove with the name Neal engraved at the bottom.

“Who’s…?” She started.

“Gideon, have you picked out what movies you’d like to watch?” Rupert had appeared in the living room.

“Not yet. Do you have a favourite, Belle?”

“I like It’s A Wonderful Life.”

“That’s so long and boring.”

She chuckled.

“I’m picking something else.”

“I’m making some hot chocolate.” Rupert’s voice called her attention. “Belle, would you like some?”

“Oh yes.”

Rupert was gone again as Gideon pulled her to the couch. On the table, Belle found cookies and snuck one.

“Did you make these?” She asked Gideon.

“I did it all on my own.”

“Oh, well, they’re wonderful.”

Gideon smiled, proud of himself, before he was searching the DVD collection. “What about Muppets Christmas Carol?” He held it up.

“I like that one,” Belle told him.

Rupert had returned with a steaming cup of hot chocolate, placing it on a coaster. “Careful, Gideon, it’s hot.”

“Do you need help, Rupert?” Belle asked.

“If you’d like.”

She was up quickly then, leaving Gideon behind. Once in the kitchen alone, she leaned up close to his side.

“I didn’t even get to say a proper hello.” She smiled at him and brushed his cheek with a quick kiss.

Rupert seemed nervous, his eyes flashing across the empty kitchen, perhaps worried Gideon had caught them.

“I’ll take one.” Belle grabbed the other mug and led him back to the living room, where Gideon set up the movie.

“And here I thought you’d want to start with opening presents,” Rupert said to Gideon.

“Could we?”

“We haven’t even had our hot chocolate yet.”

“But I want to see my presents.” Gideon leaned closer.

“Oh, alright.” Rupert caved.

They moved to sit around the tree, Gideon on the floor while Belle sat a respectful distance from Rupert.

“Belle, this one’s for you, from me.” Gideon brought it over.

“Why, thank you.” She carefully peeled back the wrapping. It was a thin, rectangular object, and as she exposed it, she found it was a frame. She held it up and found it was a collage of photographs from Gideon’s childhood.

“I thought you might like to have some pieces of my childhood since you missed it.”

“Oh Gideon,” Her heart was touched at the sentiment. “This is beautiful, thank you.” She drew him in for a hug. “I’ll treasure it dearly.”

Gideon broke away to get the next present as Belle still traced her hand over the frame.

“For you, Papa.” Gideon had returned, and now it was Rupert’s turn to open his present.

“Ah, some ties. Very lovely, Gideon, thank you.”

“Can I do mine next?” Gideon asked.

“Yes, go ahead,” Rupert told him, and Gideon skipped back to the tree.

Gideon first picked out one of Rupert’s presents, tearing the paper quickly. “Some puzzles, so cool.” The next of Rupert’s presents was the sort of things one usually got in stockings: socks and treats of the sort.

“Don’t go eating them all at once,” Rupert told Gideon.

“Thanks, Papa.” Gideon smiled at him.

Gideon then picked up one of Belle’s presents. The first was a beautifully illustrated book filled with popular fairytales and another of Greek myths. Gideon seemed quite enticed by it. The next thing Belle got him was a simple game.

“I thought maybe we could play it together later.” She suggested.

Gideon hugged and thanked her before returning to the tree to get the last presents.

“For you, papa.” Gideon brought Belle’s gifts over

“Two gifts?” He looked up at her curiously.

“One’s just a small thing, but the other…” She hoped he’d like it.

He opened the first, which was a pair of leather gloves. He seemed to think it was a very sensible gift indeed. Then he opened the next, which was a box. Inside was a pocket watch.

“Belle…” he started slowly.

“I’ve had the thing lying around for years. It was my grandfather’s, apparently. It doesn’t even appear to work. But I remember how you said you liked to fix things, so I thought…” She was rambling.

“It is beautiful.” He turned it around, Gideon leaning close to his side to get a good view. “I think I could get it working again, thank you.”

She smiled, happy he liked it. She’d never had any use for it anyway.

“Last one must be for Belle from Papa, then.” Gideon went back to the tree to bring it to her. It was a small box; she opened it carefully. It soon became clear that it was a jewelry box, and she opened it to find a simple but beautiful necklace inside.

“Rupert,” Her mouth opened in awe. “This is beautiful.” She wondered how much he’d spent on it.

“It’s to your liking then?”

“Most certainly.” She assured him.

Gideon came round, and she showed it to him.

“It’s very pretty,” Gideon agreed. “Are you going to put it on?”

She half wished Rupert might, but did so herself, the metal cold against her neck.

“What now, Gideon?” Rupert asked. “Did you want to watch the movie or play this game?” He gestured to the game Belle had gotten for Gideon.

“Game, I think.” Gideon decided.

They’d moved into the dining room to sit at the table. Rupert read over the instructions, and they began playing between sips of hot chocolate and nibbles of Gideon’s delicious cookies. It was fun and felt all rather domestic. A warmth in Belle’s chest made its presence as it grew with every passing minute.

After a few rounds of the game, Rupert thought they should start some dinner, suggesting they watch the movie afterward. Belle was eager to help out wherever was needed, and soon, the house began to smell lovely as the food was individually prepared and cooked. Most of it had been prepped the night before but had to be warmed up. The table was covered with ham, green beans, corn, apple sauce, and mashed potatoes when it was ready. It all looked delicious and tasted just as good. After the meal, they each washed up, and Gold prepared more hot chocolate for the movie. Gideon excused himself to use the washroom before the movie.

“You’re enjoying yourself?” Rupert hovered close by to ask Belle.

“Very much so. Yes, thank you.” She wanted so desperately to kiss him. “We’re still telling Gideon tonight, yes?” She dared to reach out to his hand.

“I’m trying to work up the courage.”

“I won’t pressure you.”

“Dad!” Gideon called, having gotten out of the washroom. “Can I have a candy cane in my next hot chocolate?”

“If you’d like,” Rupert called back, releasing Belle’s hand.

She let him go, heading to the living room just as Gideon met her side. She let Gideon snuggle up close as they settled into the couch.

“What’s your favourite Christmas movie?” She asked Gideon.

“I like Rudolf.” He smiled.

“Maybe we can watch it after.”

Rupert brought the hot chocolate over, only bringing one for Belle and one for Gideon. He stood awkwardly after placing Belle’s mug down.

“Can I start the movie now, Papa?” Gideon asked.

“Um, there’s something I wanted to discuss first. We wanted to discuss.” He clarified, wringing his cane.

Gideon jolted to sitting up, looking excited.

“Um.” Rupert’s eyes met hers, nervous as ever.

She wanted to reach out to take his hand but wasn’t sure if it was yet appropriate.

“It’s about Belle,” He started again, awkwardly pointing to her.

Belle could tell this was not going particularly well at all for Rupert as he stared at the ground, struggling to get the words out. Belle looked over at Gideon, finding him grinning away.

“We’ve, um…” Rupert fidgeted with his tie like it was too tight on his neck. “We’ve started seeing each other.” He finally got out, beat red in the face now. Belle thought it was cute despite everything.

Gideon let out a giggle, causing Rupert to look at him in confusion.

“That’s wonderful!” Gideon was smiling away. “I had thought… maybe. You guys were acting all weird. I hoped for it. It’s wonderful!”

“If you suspected, why didn’t you say anything?” Rupert asked, looking a little shocked.

“Well, I didn’t want to ruin it.” Gideon twisted in his seat.

Sympathy went out to Gideon from Belle, and she placed a light, reassuring hand on Gideon’s back.

“You’re happy then?” Rupert asked slowly.

“Of course! How could I not be.” Gideon smiled up at his father, and Rupert breathed in a sigh of relief.

Belle offered her hand to Rupert. He took it, and she squeezed gently.

“So, are things serious?” Gideon giggled a bit, leaning up closer to Belle with hopeful, teasing eyes.

“I think so.” Belle smiled nervously at Rupert.

“Yes.” He replied almost distantly, but she squeezed his hand again in reassurance. She wasn’t planning on going anywhere.

“Okay, Papa, you can sit next to Belle for the movie.” Gideon gestured to the empty space before settling back into the couch and pressing play on the movie as if everything was completely normal.

Rupert cleared his throat and came to sit gracefully beside her.

“I think that went rather well.” She whispered to Rupert. He was still blushing something fierce, and she kissed his cheek before turning to Gideon and pulling him close to her side. She felt content, happier than ever.

/

It was somewhere into their fourth Christmas movie that Gideon had drifted off. Belle had begun to lean against Gold, her head resting into the crook of his neck. Gideon was draped over her side, and she stroked his hair lovingly. It made quite the picture, and Gold had no heart to move. He lightly kissed the top of her head in a small show of affection.

“I don’t have the heart to wake him,” Belle whispered.

“No bother. If necessary, we could carry Gideon up to his room together.”

She chuckled at that, fingers twirling in Gideon’s hair.

Gold stroked his hand over Gideon’s arm before it moved to Belle’s shoulder, bringing her head into another kiss. The credits of the movie were rolling now.

“I suppose we should get up.”

Belle hummed sadly, but Gold pried himself up from her and Gideon. Gideon didn’t stir from the motions, even as Belle attempted to stir him back awake.

“We’re really going to have to carry him?” She chuckled, and Gold nodded.

“It was much easier when he was smaller.” He told her. “Shall you get his arms? I’ll get his legs.”

Belle was quick to action, and with some fumbling, they managed to grab hold of him together. Gold was grateful for her help. Surely, there’d be no way he’d managed to get Gideon upstairs to his bedroom all by himself. The stairs alone were hard work with his cane and bad leg. They made it, though and plopped Gideon in his bed unceremoniously.

“He’ll wake in an hour or so to use the bathroom. He can get changed then.” Rupert told her.

Belle was already pulling blankets over him and kissed his head.

“Good night, Gideon.

Gold showed her out of the room, a hand at her back.

“Thank you for your help.” He told her.

“No trouble at all. Do you need any help cleaning up?”

“I suppose there is all that wrapping paper by the tree.” It’d been the only thing he hadn’t cleaned up yet.

They got to work in a minute, picking up the paper to put in a trash bag, which Rupert got rid of. He returned to her, hovering between the kitchen and the living room.

“Thank you again, Rupert, for the necklace. It’s too beautiful.”

“Only the best for you.” He drew her close and kissed her. “You could stay a bit longer if you’d like.” He didn’t want her to go quite yet.

“Alright, but only because you’re so tempting.” She chuckled against his lips.

He coaxed her back to the living room, and her head fell back into the crook of his neck, and they stared at the Christmas tree.

“It’s really lovely decorations you have.” She complimented.

“Thank you.” His thumb stroked her side, and they were quiet, enjoying each other’s presence.

“Who’s Neal?”

The world stopped for a moment.

“It’s only Gideon who pointed out this one ornament.” Her head was turning towards him.

Gold had worried Gideon would point it out and would tell her. That’s why he’d interrupted them.
 “How much did he say?” Gold’s voice trembled a bit.

“Nothing. Gideon just pointed out an ornament, saying it was for Neal. Was he a friend, or…?” She searched for something.

Gold stared past the tree, out the window. How many years had it been now? He thought Neal  thrashing in his arms, kissing him, promising to protect, love, and cherish him. In the end, it wasn’t enough.

“He was my son.”

Belle didn’t respond for a bit.

“Before Gideon.” Gold supplied, looking over at her. “Milah’s. After my accident, I wanted to try anything to save our semblance of a marriage.” The words were pained, hurt to say. “She got pregnant and gave birth to a healthy baby boy, Neal. I treasured him more than anything. He started showing signs of being sick, but Milah thought I was overreacting. Only, when we brought him to the hospital, he had meningitis.”

There was a small sound from Belle, and she squeezed his hand. Gold looked out the window again.

“It was bad, and when things appeared to get better, there were complications. I broke down, and Milah couldn’t handle it, so she left. He died right after she left, and I was left to handle the burial and such things. She didn’t come to the funeral. She never came back.”

“I’m so sorry, Rupert.” She clutched his hand. “How old was he, your son?”

“Barely even a year old. He didn’t even get to live a life.” He clutched her hand in return, fighting back tears.

“I was left a broken person without him. He was my light. I thought I was destined to be alone. But then Gideon was handed into my arms, kicking and crying, and I immediately saw Neal in him. That’s why I couldn’t give him up. He was my chance to try again. Not that I’d could ever replace Neal.” He shook his head fiercely. “But to start a new life, to carry on the legacy I ought to have with Neal, through Gideon.”

Her hand came softly to his cheek, comforting, and he closed his eyes to bask in it.

“Oh, Rupert. I’m so sorry. I couldn’t even imagine.”

He opened his eyes, slowly drawing in a deep breath. “The only other person I’ve told is Gideon. And he only got the light version of it. Of how I’d been married before and had a child whom I lost. That’s all I ever told him. He comes with me to visit Neal’s grave, though. We like to imagine the person he’d have become.”

“What do you imagine?”

“I like to think of him as an artist. Fierce and headstrong as Milah, but loving and gentle.”

“Like you.” She finished.

Was he? He hoped.

Gold wrapped her hand around hers and brought it to his lips, kissing it gently. “Like I said, Belle. My life rarely has ever been kind to me. That’s why I’m so glad to have found Gideon and now, you. You’re both like a light in my life.”

“I’m glad to be.” She pushed his hair back. “I think you deserve to have a happier life from now on, Rupert, and I’m going to strive to make that happen.”

“I’d needn’t ask that of you.”

“Well, I will try anyway.” Her hand was soft and gentle in his hair.

“I’ll be happy enough with you simply in my life.” He drew her in slowly for a soft, gentle kiss.

Chapter Text

“Thank you for the chocolates, Rupert.” Belle snuck one into her mouth. “And the flowers are gorgeous.”

His eyes flickered over to the roses on his counter. “Yes, well, I do aim to impress.”

“And you most certainly do that.” She stepped closer to kiss him.

“So, you remember how I was going to take you out for dinner tonight?”

“Yes, I seemed to recall Gideon insisting that you take me out as it is Valentine’s Day and that he’d be perfectly fine with Marco.”

Gold hummed again.

“Yes, well. Gideon’s been very insistent that we should have a whole night together.”

“Has he?” She was all too near, making his heart race even still after months of being together.

“So I thought maybe you’d like to have dinner at my place again.”

“I’d like that.” Her lips were back to his.

-

It’d been a while since they’d had a night to themselves. Mostly, they stole lunches together. More often than not they lost track of time in the shop before one of them realized that Belle had a job to get back to. Belle came over most nights because Gideon was so taken with her, and, well, Rupert liked it too. She slotted herself easily into his life, into his heart. Like she was always meant to be there.

Currently, she was slotted between his legs, sitting up on his counter as he gave her a taste of the spaghetti sauce.

“Yes, quite good.” She assured him.

He barely managed to remember to turn off the burners before they were having a full-on make-out session. God, he could get lost in her. She deserved to be worshiped, and he worshiped her.

She could sometimes be a minx, and she knew it, enticing him in ways he fell for all too easily. She gasped as his teeth met her pulse point, a hand hiking up her dress. Unfortunately, his leg buckled, and he groaned in agony as he fell into her.

“Rupert!” she fretted.

“It’s just my leg, darling.” He massaged it.

“You should be the one sitting on the counter, not me.” She was slipping off the counter, and he caught her.

“It’s no bother. Food’s going cold anyway. We’ll continue this later.” He kissed her again.

-

In the morning, he found her in the kitchen in his shirt again. She was most certainly a minx and would surely be the death of him.

“What did I do to deserve you?” He asked, his fingers in her hair.

“You are fully deserving of me, Rupert, ten times over.” She kissed him, and he could almost believe her.

His hands fell to her waist, taking her in. He wished she could stay forever, but he’d made himself promise that he’d not bring it up until at least a year. A year seemed so, so far away.

“I love you.” It slipped from his lips, and her eyes widened. He worried it was too much too soon.

But then her lips were back to his, full of passion. She chuckled as she drew away. “I love you too, Rupert.”

It was too good to believe.

/

It was March Break, and Belle was busy organizing events at the library. Rupert came by, offering his help. She politely told him he’d be more help not hovering around worrying about her. It was cute his worrying, though.

They had planned for Gideon to stay with Belle again for a couple of days. She hated giving the boy only a cot on the floor, but it was all she had. Gideon was just happy to spend time with her. He was happier with how often she was at Rupert’s house—giggling whenever he caught them kissing. It sent Belle blushing whenever he did.

Rupert had come by to run through their schedule again, a clear ploy just to see her. He’d make up any excuse to see her. She did the same.

“And what time will you be picking up our son?” She asked.

It hit her as soon as the words tumbled out of her lips. She was chuckling, startling Rupert. “We have a son.”

“Yes, he’s eleven, last time I checked.” He didn’t seem quite to understand what she found so amusing.

“We have a son together.” She was approaching him now.

“Well, not technically.” He was stuttering.

“And we’re not even married. Scandalous.” She chuckled.

There was a hint of a smile on his lips, but something else also, nerves, maybe. Belle would pry into that later.

“I believe it’s called co-parenting.” He sufficed.

She nodded. “What time will you pick Gideon up then?”

-

The few times Gold came into Belle’s apartment, his eyes always flashed over everything. It always put her on edge a bit.

“Do you like it here, Belle, in this apartment?”

“I make do.” She assured him.

The tiny space only felt smaller by the day, the struggle of making meals for a single person each week becoming harder. She spent almost every night at Rupert’s for dinner anyway, and he offered to bring her lunch almost every day. But Belle always left after Gideon had gone to bed; she wouldn’t push past that.

Summer break was approaching, and Belle was sure to be busier with summer programs and kids out of school at the library. She was also hoping for more time with Gideon, hoping for such things as a beach day.

Rupert had suggested that she might like looking after Gideon one day out of the week during the summer, so she picked her day off, Thursday. Together, she and Gideon did many things, such as that beach day. But of course, she enjoyed the times she spent with Gideon and Rupert together just as much.

It was a day near the end of summer, Belle came over for dinner, and they started watching a movie together. Gideon was already drifting off by the end, and Belle wished him good night as he headed to bed and she to the door.

“You could stay a bit longer if you’d like.” Rupert offered her at the door.

“And what would that look like?” Her voice raised.

“We are dating…” He trailed off. “No, you’re right.” He shook his head.

“I’d really love to, Rupert.” She took his hand and kissed him. “But maybe we should wait a bit.”

-

It was a week before school would start up again and Gideon had gone to a friend’s sleepover party. Rupert invited Belle to spend the night. Rupert’s fingers danced over her exposed skin in the morning.

“I’ll have been here just over a year now.” She told him, almost surprised at how much time had passed. How much she felt right back at home, specifically when she was with him.

“Indeed.” Was his only response.

“Could we stay here forever?” She asked, her voice light as ever.

“I think I’d quite like that.” He smiled. “I’d like it if you could stay over more often.” His thumb was at her hip.

“What are you saying?” She leaned against his chest.

“Maybe we could talk to Gideon about you staying over more.”

“You mean like me moving in?” She was almost shocked by the proposal. She’d thought that wouldn’t happen for another long while.

“Well, not fully, not right away. Slowly.” His thumb had stopped.

“I’d quite like that.” She kissed him, and his hand clutched her tighter.

/

Gold felt awkward as he worked up the courage to talk to Gideon. It ended up being a conversation in the car.

“How would you feel about Belle staying over longer?”

“Longer?” He inquired from the back seat.

“If she were to stay with us on a semi-permanent basis.”

“You mean, move in?” Gideon’s voice rose with excitement.

“A trial run, of sorts.” His brain compartmentalized.

“Of course she can stay, papa!” Gideon was smiling, leaning closer. “Is she going to be sleeping in your room?”

Gold blushed. “Yes, I think that would be my intention.” He gripped the wheel tighter.

Gideon chuckled. “When would she move in?”

“Well, I hadn’t thought of that yet.”

“I think she should move in this weekend. It’ll be like having a proper family with her living with us.”

“Don’t get ahead of yourself now.”

“Oh, you’re in love. You’ll be getting married any day now.” He teased.

“I do hope you’re not saying these things to Belle.” Gold was gripping the wheel still rather tightly.

“No. But I can tell.” Gideon smiled.

-

Belle came to move in that weekend with a small bag of things. She was only going to stay for the weekend, but it felt almost too much.

The three of them settled in for a movie after dinner, and then Gideon was announcing he was going off to bed with a smirk on his face.

“Night, Papa. Night, Mom.”

“Now what?” Belle asked once he was gone.

“You like to watch something else?” Gold suggested.

They settled against each other, watching something aimlessly. Belle yawned, and Gold suggested they could go to bed.

It was strange, the simplicity of it all. Watching Belle get ready for bed, brushing her teeth in his bathroom as if she’d always lived there. He floated back when her clothes came off and peppered kisses along her bare skin.

“Rupert.” She giggled.

“I’m sorry. But you’re just too beautiful, darling.”

“If you keep that up, we’ll wake up Gideon.” She swatted him away.

“We can be quiet.” The words slipped from his lips.

She chuckled again. “You’re very naughty, Rupert. Here I was thinking we’d just be sleeping in the same bed, not together.”

“We can still sleep if you like.” He didn’t care either way.

“But now you’ve enticed me.” Her lips were soft on his.

-

She’d brought a silk dressing gown that was soft against her skin.

“That’s far too sexy for you to be wearing down to breakfast with our son.” He whispered against her lips.

“Our son.” She smiled again.

/

One weekend rolled into two, and the third ended up stretching into a week. Belle did not want to leave. No, she’d made herself quite comfortable. She still hadn’t brought all her stuff over yet and was using Rupert’s soap.

“Is that my soap you used?” He asked as he smelled her wet hair after a shower.

“I like smelling like you.”

“As much as I quite like your perfumes, I almost don’t mind it.”

Gideon was happy as ever, smiling away. He was leaning over the table to her when she’d stayed longer than just the weekend.

“So when are you going to get married?” He smirked knowingly.

Belle wasn’t sure if moving in full-time was a good idea, but it was something she wanted. She enjoyed sleeping beside Rupert in his nice bed and waking up to him and Gideon. It was perfect.

One day, Rupert was walking Belle back to her apartment after work, and she felt disappointed to be alone in her tiny apartment for the night.

“I don’t even know what I’ll make for dinner.” She commented quietly. “It’s been quite nice having you and Gideon make meals. It’s been nice getting to wake up and fall asleep next to you.”

“It has, hasn’t it.” He stroked her hand as she pulled into him.

“Rupert, I don’t think I like my apartment anymore.” She told him.

His hand clutched tighter at her. “Then you can move in with me.”

There wasn’t even a hesitation in his voice. Belle had gotten him all too easily.

Whether Rupert regretted the decision, Belle couldn’t exactly tell. He busied himself with moving her things and making her comfortable in his home. Gideon, of course, was delighted as ever.

Suddenly, the last of Belle’s rent had been paid, and she was all moved out. It hit her in the early morning.

“Rupert, it’s a new month.” She stirred him awake.

“I believe so, darling.”

“My apartment’s no longer mine.”

His eyes met hers.

“This is real, I’ve moved in.” She chuckled at it, hardly believing it herself.

“You can leave anytime, I assure you.”

“Rupert,” she hated when he did that, when he pulled away. “I’m not leaving because I like it here. I like you.” She kissed him. “In fact, I love you.”

“I’m glad, because I do too, darling.”

 /

It was early December and the cold was something fierce. Gold worried about how Belle was coping. He pulled out the pocket watch she’d gifted him and fixed long ago. He always thought of her when he’d check it.

Something was stirring within him. It had been since early that week. It had started when he’d caught Belle helping Gideon get ready for school.

“You have your lunch?”

“Yes, Mom,” he huffed.

“Where’s your father?” Her head swirled, and she found him walking in, doing his tie.

“Rupert, you’re going to be late.” She’d floated over and helped him put on his tie.

“It’s alright, darling. I’ll just drop Gideon off before I go to the shop.”

It was a Thursday. Otherwise, she’d already be at the library, opening up.

She finished helping him with his tie, and he kissed her. “Thank you.”

He gathered his things, and Belle kissed Gideon. “Be good now.” She told him.

The memory played over and over in Gold’s head. Gold wondered when living together had become so normal. So mundane.

He closed the pocket watch, deciding to close the shop early. Perhaps a walk might do him good.

He stopped at the jeweller’s, remembering how Christmas was around the corner and thinking of how he might pick something special up for Belle. He’d started in the door and observed the display before he stood frozen before the rings. He picked out one before, but this one was different. She was different. She was good for him. Almost too good. But she was happy, and he wanted her to continue to be happy.

“Anything you see that you like, sir?” the owner came over.

“Yes, I think so.”

/

It was Sunday, which meant Granny’s, as was their tradition. Rupert’s mind appeared to have been elsewhere all morning. When Belle had asked if anything was the matter, he’d assured her it was not. Belle didn’t pry more, hoping in time he’d tell her if something was really the matter. Instead, she helped Gideon with the crossword. He’d seem very keen to it that morning.

After breakfast, they went on their walk, and Belle was glad at how nice the weather had been recently; it was barely even cold. They met Marco and August at the park, who greeted them warmly. August asked Gideon to play, who was more than happy to agree.

“You guys go on.” He gave his father a slight push before running off with August.

“What was that about?” Belle asked.

“I don’t know.” Rupert wrung his cane. “Would you care to walk to the water?”

“Why not.” She agreed.

She took his arm and they walked to the water. Rupert almost seemed nervous, and Belle couldn’t imagine why.

“Rupert, will you tell me what is bothering you? I’d like to know. You don’t have to hide things from me, remember?”

“Yes, I know, darling. And that’s why I love you.” He looked at her with such admiration that it was almost alarming.

“Belle.” He was pulling something out of his pocket, and suddenly, Belle began to realize what was happening.

Her heart raced in her chest as her hand went tight against it.

“Belle, you are one of the best things that has ever happened to me. You’re the perfect mother to Gideon and a light to my life.” He was opening the box. “It would do me such a great honour if you would marry me.”

Tears had formed in Belle’s eyes. “Yes,” she was laughing and flung her arms around him, meeting him in a kiss. It almost took him off his feet, and she was apologizing after.

“I’m sorry, Rupert.”

“It’s alright, darling.” He laughed. “That’s a yes then?”

“Yes,” she laughed, turning to find the box with the ring in it. “Is this what you’ve been so nervous about all day?”

“Afraid so.”

“Oh, Rupert.” She kissed him again. “And Gideon knew?”

“I wouldn’t have asked without asking him first. He was delighted, of course. Do you want to try it on?” He lifted the box slightly.

“Oh right, yes.” She was chuckling with happiness, and he fitted it on her finger. “It’s perfect.”

Gideon had run over, and Belle noticed Marco and August smiling, having watched everything close by.

“You said yes, then?” Gideon asked.

“I did.” She laughed, pulling him close.

“Isn’t it pretty? Papa showed it to me. He’s been so nervous. But I told him you’d say yes. Didn’t I, papa?”

“You most certainly did.” Rupert patted Gideon’s shoulder.

Belle pulled closer to them both, kissing Gideon’s head. “I’ll be so happy to be a part of your family.” She looked to Rupert. “I’d love to be married to you.” She kissed him, and Gideon giggled.

It was hard to believe that after everything, in the end. It all seemed quite so perfect.