Chapter Text
Once upon a time, there was a woman named Gothel who discovered a magical golden Rapunzel bellflower: one that could heal the sick and injured and even restore youth when a certain song was sung. Gothel kept the flower hidden, using its power to keep herself young for centuries.
But one day, the flower withered away.
Soon after, Gothel gave birth to a daughter. And to her shock, the flower’s magic now lived inside the baby, in every strand of her golden hair. When the song was sung, the hair glowed and her youth was restored.
Gothel tried cutting a piece to keep for herself, but the severed lock turned brown and powerless. The magic was not in the hair, it was in the girl.
Panicked by the thought of losing her youth forever, Gothel named the child Rapunzel and spirited her away to a hidden tower deep in a forest valley, determined to keep her and her power forever.
Rapunzel’s hair grew longer and longer over the years, like a golden river that curled across the floors of the tower. Whenever Gothel returned, she would call, “Rapunzel, let down your hair,” and Rapunzel would obey, lowering her hair as a makeshift ladder.
So, Rapunzel lived in isolation, a secret the world was never meant to discover. Gothel told her endless stories about the dangers outside: ruffians and thugs, vicious beasts, wicked strangers who would snatch her away. And every day Rapunzel nodded, pretending to believe her.
But every night, Rapunzel stood at her window and dreamed. I want to see the world beyond the trees. I want a life that belongs to me. I want to meet someone, anyone who isn’t Mother.
Years passed. And on the day before her eighteenth birthday, Rapunzel felt the weight of all those years pressing on her.
That morning, she had gathered every bit of courage to ask her mother just for one day. One day outside. One day in the sun. One birthday wish.
But Gothel had only frowned and told her of all the dangers outside again. Thieves, monsters, ruffians, men with pointy teeth, all waiting in the world beyond the tower to catch her.
Maybe Gothel was right. Maybe she wouldn’t survive a day out there. Maybe she was weak. Maybe she should stop asking, stop dreaming.
“Come on, Pascal,” she mumbled, scooping up her frying pan and her little chameleon friend. “Let’s eat something.”
But even as she gathered vegetables, her chest ached. What if she never lets me leave? What if I grow old in this tower? What if I die here, alone and unseen? Her hands trembled. If only something could free me… someone…
Then she froze. There was a noise, metal scraping stone, grunting, breathing. From her window. Her blood turned to ice. Someone was climbing into her tower.
Rapunzel’s pulse hammered in her ears as she crept toward the sound, frying pan raised like a sword. Her palms were sweating, but she stood her ground.
Flynn Rider hauled himself through the window, dragging his precious satchel behind him.
Ha! Finally, a hiding place where the guards would never think to look. No horse, no shouting, no threats. Just silence. Just him.
He locked the window and exhaled in bliss. “Alone at last.”
Alone. Just how I’ve always wanted. No more sneers. No more cruel faces. No more being the unwanted orphan, the bastard child. Just me and my freedom. I’ll sell this crown, buy an island, tan in the sun, and never have to see another soul again. I’ll finally live like Flynnigan Rider. Perfect.
He took off the satchel, ready to bask in solitude, but then he turned. And saw her.
Rapunzel gasped.
Flynn gasped.
Both froze. The frying pan slipped from her hands with a clang. The satchel fell from his hands. Time stopped.
Rapunzel’s thoughts scattered. I expected a monster, a thief, some terrible brute Mother warned me about… but... Her breath caught. He looks like… oh stars… like something out of a dream. Those eyes. That smile. Why is my heart leaping? Why does it feel like it recognizes him? Oh no. Oh no. Stop fluttering, heart. Stop glowing, cheeks. Stop falling for him!
Flynn couldn’t breathe. Not even a little. An angel. No, something beyond an angel. Her eyes are like emeralds. Did I die? Did I make it to paradise? Is this the reward for a life of questionable decisions? He blushed, smiling. Why am I smiling? Stop smiling, Flynn. Stop it. Stop blushing. You look like a lovesick puppy. Get it together.
Rapunzel tried to remember to breathe. Say something. Warn him off. Defend yourself. He’s a stranger. A man. He could steal me. He could hurt me. Or… Her heart pounded hard. …or he could kiss me. What?! No. No, No, No. Think, Rapunzel!
She snatched the frying pan again, her arms shaking. “W…who…who are you?!” she stammered. “Are you…are you a man? Do you... do you have… pointy teeth?!”
Flynn blinked. “…Huh?” Pointy teeth? Is that flirting? If that’s flirting, I love it. She can ask about my dental structure any day. He gave her a tiny, helpless smile, showing his very non-pointy teeth.
Rapunzel’s knees nearly gave out. He smiled. He really smiled. Oh, stars, he gets even more handsome when his mouth moves. I’m doomed. Absolutely doomed.
“Who…who are you?” she repeated softly. “And how did you find my tower?”
Flynn’s mind raced. Why do I feel like my heart is being pulled toward her? Why do I want to take her hand and swear my life to her? Why do I suddenly feel like I’ve been searching for her since before I knew what searching meant? What do I do? Oh, I know. I’ll do what Flynnigan Rider would do. He cleared his throat. “I know not who you are, nor how I came to find you,” he said with a dramatic bow. “But may I just say… Hi. How you doing? The name’s Flynn Rider. How’s your day going, huh?”
Rapunzel blinked. “...Is something wrong with your face?”
Flynn froze. Great. Fantastic. I look possessed. I’m in love, and I look possessed. Perfect. Yet beneath the panic, he felt wonderful. Whatever this feeling is, I never want it to end.
“Flynn Rider?” she repeated, voice trembling.
“Yes,” he replied automatically, then immediately panicked. Well, technically no, not my real name, but I can’t tell her that. What if she laughs? What if this radiant angel hears my sad real name and mocks me? No. She must never know. I’d rather perish. But wait, what if she recognizes the name from a wanted poster?! What if she turns me in?! Would I let her? …Yes. Yes, if she asked, I’d walk willingly to prison. I’d thank her. I’d bring her flowers on the way.
Flynn cleared his throat, panicking. “Uh, I mean...”
“And how did you find me?” Rapunzel asked softly. “Who else knows my location, Flynn Rider?”
Say something smooth. Something heroic. Something charming. You are Flynnigan Rider. A legend. A romantic. A rogue with style. You are... “Hi,” he blurted. “I mean… wow. You’re… wow. Uh, hi again. I mean… ugh!” Nailed it.
Rapunzel blinked slowly. Is this what men do? Do they malfunction? Did he hit his head on the way up? “Do you always smile that much?” she asked, suspicious but also enchanted.
“What? No, I... ugh!” Flynn slapped both hands over his face. Brilliant. The first woman I’ve ever wanted to impress, and I turn into a lovesick donkey in boots. Why can’t I stop smiling?! He peeked through his fingers and immediately melted again. Look at her. Just look at her. How is she real? I would lasso the sun for her. I would fight a bear for her. I would lay on the floor if she wanted a rug. I’d... He sighed, loudly, dreamily, pathetically.
Rapunzel blushed. Why is he looking at me like that? Like I’m… important. Like I’m beautiful. Why does my heart beat so fast? Why are my hands shaking? Why do I want to touch his hair? Is that normal? Is that allowed? Is this a fever? Do I have a disease? If so… it’s kind of wonderful.
They stared, they sighed, then stared again like two lovesick idiots.
Pascal rolled his eyes dramatically. He slapped Rapunzel’s cheek with his tail. “Huh, what?” Rapunzel blinked, dazed and blushing. “I... uh... what was I saying? Did I say something? Did I stop breathing?”
Flynn forced his brain to function. Come on, Rider. Say something gentlemanly. Something noble. Something to convince her you weren’t raised by wolves and panic. “Um, well, I… um…” he stammered, heart pounding. “I introduced myself. Won’t you… do the same?”
“...Huh?” Rapunzel asked, still staring dreamily at him.
“What’s your name?”
“Rapunzel.”
“Gesundheit.”
“No, Rapunzel is my name.”
He stared at her. Of course it is. Of course, her name sounds like a spell designed to trap me. “Rapunzel? Like the lettuce?” the words left him before he could stop them. “Why is that your name?”
“Mother says she named me after a flower.”
“Oh,” Flynn breathed, far too softly. Of course. A flower. She looks like one. No, she looks like the whole meadow. Like morning dew and sunlight. I want to stay with her forever... I want... No. Stop it, Rider. Get it together. “So… the rapunzel bellflower?” he tried, scrambling for normalcy.
“I think so,” she said, twisting a curl of hair around her finger. “But… I wanted to ask… um… what was I going to ask?”
Flynn jumped in before she grew quiet again. “Look, I’m sorry I broke in. Really. I was in a situation. Gallivanting through the forest. I came across your tower, and...”
“Do you want my hair?”
“What?!” Flynn nearly choked. “Why on earth would I want your hair?” His eyes followed the golden hair across the floor. He froze. “Oh, my gosh,” he whispered. “Is this all… hair?!”
Rapunzel nodded slowly. “So, you… don’t know about it? You don’t want it?”
Flynn blinked. Want her hair? Lady, I want your hand. Your smile for the rest of my life. I want your future intertwined with mine. I want to build you a home with stairs this time. I want... He swallowed hard. “No. I... I don’t want your hair.” I want you. “Why would I want your hair?” he added honestly.
Flynn turned back to look at her which was a huge mistake. Because the moment his eyes met hers again, his brain shut off. The lovesick smile washed over his face before he could stop it. “Gosh… you’re so beautiful,” he breathed before he even knew what he was saying.
Rapunzel blinked. “What?”
Flynn froze in horror. Oh, no. No, no, no. Did I just say that out loud?! Pull it together, man. I can’t think. I can’t breathe. All I see is her. All I want is her. To hold her. To spin her around. To build an entire existence around her. But no... No. You can’t fall in love, Flynn. You promised yourself. Love is dangerous. Love is pain. And closeness scares you. She’s too good for you. She’d laugh if she knew who you really were. What do you have to offer her? A fake name and a stolen crown? She deserves a real prince. You’re… you. You wanted an island, freedom, solitude. Not this. Not weddings and starlight and kissing those lips and... stop it. Stop thinking about her lips.
“Flynn?” Rapunzel asked softly.
“Hm?” he answered dreamily, utterly gone.
She lowered her gaze shyly, blushing. “Did you really say ‘beautiful’? You… you think I’m beautiful?” She looked at him like she was afraid to believe it and desperate to.
“Yes... uh... I mean... I... uh...” Flynn stammered.
Rapunzel felt her heart race. He thinks I’m beautiful. Why does that make every inch of me feel like it’s glowing? Why do I suddenly want to run in circles? Why do I care about his opinion more than I’ve cared about anything in my entire life? Why am I blushing like a tomato? Stop blushing, Rapunzel! Be normal.
She cleared her throat, trying to look composed. “Um... well, Flynn… if you don’t want my hair… why are you here?”
“I… uh... I was… being chased, saw a tower, climbed it,” he mumbled, trying to sound casual.
“And you’re telling the truth?”
“Yes,” Flynn said instantly.
“And… you’re really a man?”
“Um… yes.”
Her brow furrowed, curious. “What makes men different from women?”
Flynn’s face turned as red as a tomato. “I... I don’t... I don’t think I should... um... answer that.” He turned to the window, flustered. “Look, Rapunzel, I’m sorry I broke in. I should probably go before...” Before I fall harder. Before I lose every ounce of self-control. Before I ask you to run away with me and marry me and live in a tree and have seven kids and braid your hair while telling you you’re the love of my life even though I met you five minutes ago.
“Wait!” She grabbed his arm.
Flynn froze completely. She’s touching me. Does she know? Does she feel this too? Oh, stars above... if she doesn’t let go, I will propose. Right here. Right now. With a bread crumb as a ring.
She tightened her grip on his sleeve and stared at him. Why did I grab him? Why can’t I let go? Why does touching him feel so right? Why is my heart singing?!
They stood like that, breathless, foolish, totally lost in each other. “Um…” they said at the same time. What is happening to me? they both thought.
Then Rapunzel gasped. Right, the outside world. Focus! You had a plan! You had a dream! You... Her hand was still on his arm. She didn’t move, neither did he. She swallowed. “So… you’re a man, right?”
“Yes,” Flynn said, though it came out weak. As if the word man now meant hopelessly in love with the girl holding my arm.
Rapunzel’s brows furrowed adorably. “And do they all grow hair on their faces? Does it just… sprout like weeds?”
“Uh… kind of?”
She leaned closer. “And… you don’t bite?”
“Only sandwiches.”
She gasped. “You bite sandwiches?!”
“…That’s… not helping my case, is it?”
She tilted her head, studying him. “Do men make strange noises? Like… hrghh… when they wake up?”
Flynn couldn’t help it, he laughed. And it was bright and warm. Rapunzel’s eyes widened as she watched him laugh. He’s laughing. Oh no. Why is his laugh so wonderful? Why do I want that sound forever?
Flynn tried to calm himself, but the moment he looked at her again, he sighed dreamily once more. She’s perfect. Her curiosity. Her sincerity. Her everything. If she asked me how many toes a man has, I would gladly take off my boots and count for her. Twice.
Rapunzel tilted her head even further. “And are men dangerous? Do you fight with claws? Or do you growl?”
Flynn choked on another laugh. “What? No! No claws. No growling. I mean, unless you count my morning voice, which is… debatable.”
Rapunzel gasped softly. He’s smiling again. Stop smiling like that! My heart can’t take it! Why does his smile make me so happy? I don’t think I’ve ever smiled this much in my life. What is he doing to me? What is happening?
“Then…” she hesitated, biting her lip. “If you’re not here for my hair, and you’re not here to… eat me or attack me…” She swallowed. “Would you… take me to see the outside world?”
Flynn froze. Outside. She wants me to take her outside. This girl, this impossible, angelic, too-good-for me girl wants me to be the one. Me. The kingdom’s most wanted thief. The orphan, the bastard son with nothing. What could I ever offer her? A satchel of stolen treasure and a life on the run? She deserves a palace. She deserves a crown of her own, not one I stole. She deserves someone who can keep her safe, not someone hunted by guards. But oh… if she asked me to take her anywhere, I’d burn the world down to do it.
Rapunzel’s heart pounded painfully. What am I saying? He’s a stranger. A man. Mother warned me: men are selfish, cruel, dangerous. But… he doesn’t look cruel. He looks kind. And lost. And beautiful. And when he looks at me, I feel so wonderful. Can I trust him? I don’t know. But can I let him leave without trying? No. I’ll die in this tower if I do.
Flynn swallowed. “Rapunzel…”
“Yes?”
“I…” Say no. Say it’s too dangerous. Say you can’t. That’s what you should do. That’s what the smart thief does. Leave before you fall in love. But… He looked into her eyes and was undone. Oh stars, I’m already in love.
Her hand tightened slightly on his arm. “I don’t know if I can trust you,” she whispered. “I don’t know who you are, or what you’ve done. But if you really mean no harm… if you could just show me the world outside, just once… I think… I’d follow you.”
Flynn’s heart beat so fast. She would follow me? Me? The boy nobody wanted. The thief nobody loves. She says it like it’s simple, but doesn’t she know what that means? If she follows me, I’ll never let her go. I’ll protect her with everything I am, even if I have nothing. I want to give her everything I’ve never had. Home. Love. A name that means something. But… I can’t. I can’t even keep myself safe. I can’t be good enough for her. His voice was hoarse. “Rapunzel, if you knew who I really was, you wouldn’t ask me.”
“Then tell me,” she whispered.
He blinked.
“Tell me. I want to know you,” she said.
Flynn’s chest ached. Nobody’s ever asked to know me. Not Flynn Rider. Not Eugene. She doesn’t even know what that means, and still… she’s looking at me like I’m worth something. Like I’m not a failure. Like I’m not alone. His mouth opened, ready to confess everything. But then he faltered, shame flooding him. No. If she knows the truth, she’ll leave. And I… I can’t bear to lose her. Not when I just found her. Instead, he said softly, “If I take you outside, you might never come back the same.”
Her eyes shone, full of fear, full of longing. “That’s the point.”
“I’ll take you,” Flynn said without thinking.
Rapunzel gasped, hands covering her mouth. “Really?”
Flynn blinked. Wait. What?! Why did I say that? I can’t go back through the kingdom. I’ll be arrested before we even reach the city. They’ll hang me by sundown. But she wants this so badly. And stars, I want to give it to her. I want to give her everything. I’m doomed. I’m in love. I’ve completely lost my mind. He struggled to maintain his sanity. “No, wait... um... look, I can’t. The kingdom and I are not exactly ‘simpatico’ at the moment. So, I can’t take you anywhere.”
Her smile vanished. She didn’t look angry, just hurt.
Flynn felt like being stabbed. No. No, please, don’t look sad. I’d burn down the entire kingdom before I let you cry. “No, wait, I’ll take you!” he said quickly, reaching toward her.
She stared at him, confused. “What is it now?”
“I’ll take you…” He swallowed. “If it makes you happy.” Oh, he was finished. Completely finished by her. I’m not even negotiating anymore. I’m just... hers. She smiles and I forget my own name. She frowns and I’d trade everything to fix it. Take my freedom, my soul, my future, just let me keep making you smile.
Rapunzel smiled shyly. But then other thoughts entered her mind. Oh no. Rapunzel, what are you doing? Mother was right, you’re too trusting. Too naïve. A man breaks into your tower and suddenly you’re blushing and glowing? Get a grip. He could be lying. He could be dangerous. She forced herself to step back. “No. Flynn, I can’t.”
His heart dropped. “Why not? I thought you...”
“I can’t trust you,” she whispered. “You’re a stranger. And a man. Perhaps even… a ruffian.”
Flynn flinched. Please, not her. Call me a thief, a criminal, a scoundrel but don’t let her think I’d hurt her. I’d cut off my own hands before I ever laid a harmful finger on her. “I’m not...” he started, then hesitated. Well… technically I could count as one. But not with her. Never with her. “I’m not like that to you.”
Rapunzel’s voice trembled. “How do I know… that you won’t kidnap me the moment I leave this tower?”
Flynn felt his heart breaking. She thinks I’d take her against her will. She thinks I’d force her. If only she knew. I don’t want to trap her. I want her to choose me. Freely. I want her to want to go with me. “Well… then I won’t take you,” he said gently. He tried to smile for her, even though it hurt. “But I just… wanted to make you happy,” he said before he could stop himself. Why did I say that? Why is being honest with her so easy? Why does it hurt so much to mean it?
Rapunzel stared at him. Why does that sound so real? Why do I trust him more than I should? What kind of ruffian says “I wanted to make you happy” like he’s confessing a crime? She swallowed, caught between fear and longing, between everything Gothel had said and everything Flynn made her feel. I need something true. Something that proves I can trust him.
“If you’re not here for my hair…” she murmured, stepping closer despite herself, “then tell me something true. Something you wouldn’t tell anyone else.” Her eyes met his. “Like why you and the kingdom don’t get along.”
Flynn went still. Tell the truth? The real truth? Rule number one: never confess. Never be vulnerable. Never tell them what you did. But… she asked. And when she asks, I can’t lie. I won’t. Not to her. He took a deep breath, slow and painful. “Alright. Truth is… I stole something. Something big. The king’s crown.”
Rapunzel’s eyes widened. She glanced at the satchel on the floor, realization dawning. “That’s what’s in that satchel?”
Flynn nodded, shame rising. That’s it. She’ll hate me now. She’ll throw me out. She’ll look at me like everyone else does, like a criminal. Like trash. And I’ll deserve it. But I won’t regret telling her. Because lying to her feels like a sin.
Rapunzel stared at him for a long moment. “Why did you steal it?” she whispered.
Flynn hesitated. “To get back at this man. He owes it to me.”
“Why would the king owe you something?” she asked softly.
Flynn exhaled. Here it is. The part that makes everyone hate me or run from me. “Because…” His gaze dropped. “He’s my father.”
Rapunzel’s mouth fell open. “Wait, what? The king is your father?” She looked at him, confused. “Does that mean you’re a… what’s that word? Oh, a prince?”
Flynn laughed bitterly. “No. My half brother is the prince. I’m just the bastard son.”
“Bastard son?” she echoed.
“Yes. That jerk...” he swallowed, trying not to lose his temper in front of her, “he got my mother pregnant, never married her, and then left her to starve.”
Rapunzel blinked. “What? What does pregnant mean?”
Flynn blushed. “Uh… I don’t think I should answer that.”
“And what does ‘married’ mean?”
“A… a promise.” He smiled despite himself. “Between two people who love each other. A vow to stay together. To choose each other. Always.”
Rapunzel’s breath caught. “That sounds… nice.”
Something in Flynn cracked. She says it like she’s never seen it. Like no one’s ever made her a promise that meant something. What kind of life has she lived? What pain is hidden behind that innocence? Stars, she deserves a thousand promises. And someone who could actually keep them. “And that’s why I was being chased,” he finished quietly. “Why I ended up here.”
Rapunzel looked at him, not like he was dangerous, not like he was wicked. She looked at him like he was wounded. Like she wanted to reach out and help him. He didn’t lie. He didn’t hide. Mother said men deceive, but he just… opened up to me. He told me something that hurt him. Something no one else knows. Why would he do that unless… he cared? Unless fate did send him here? To me? “Well, Flynn,” she began.
“Wait.” He grimaced. “Since we’re confessing things… Flynn Rider isn’t even my real name. But my real name is too embarrassing, so please, please, don’t ask.”
Rapunzel smiled softly. “Alright, Flynn. My point is… something brought you here. Fate. Destiny…”
Flynn shrugged helplessly. “…Technically? A horse.”
They both laughed. Romantic laughter filled the tower. Their eyes met, and they stopped, staring at each other.
Rapunzel stepped closer. Her heart beat wildly. I want to trust him. I do. But trust is bigger than hope. Bigger than longing. Trust is sacred. If I give it, I give everything. “That’s why I made my decision,” she whispered. “I want to trust you. But I need you to promise me, Flynn.”
He straightened instinctively.
“Promise you’ll take me to see the outside world,” she continued softly, “and… bring me home safely. Because when I promise something, I never, ever break that promise. Ever.”
Flynn stared at her like she was his entire world. A promise. She wants a promise from me. I’ve broken rules. I’ve broken laws. But a promise to her? That’s something I’d bleed to keep. Take the crown, take my freedom, take everything, just let me be the one she trusts. “I promise,” he whispered.
Rapunzel exhaled, soft and shaky. He means it. He really means it. Oh no. Oh yes. I’m going to trust him. I’m going to leave this tower. And this man, this beautiful, confusing, wonderful man is going to steal something far more dangerous than my hair. He’s going to steal my heart.
Flynn cleared his throat, trying not to look like a lovesick fool. Flynn, you utter fool, he scolded himself. You swore you’d never fall in love. You swore you’d keep your heart under lock and key. And yet here you are, promising the sun itself to a girl you met five minutes ago. He looked at her and the answer arrived like a bell: Because she’s worth it. The thought was violent, simple and true. Because one look at her and everything I wanted, an island, freedom, a life alone crumbles into dust I no longer want. I want to build a life with her even if I have to steal the world to do it. But I’m nothing. I can’t be the kind of man who keeps her safe. I’ll get her hurt trying. I can’t let that happen. You have nothing, Flynn. No name you can be proud of, no home, no honest job. If you bring her into your life, you might drag her down. You can show her the world for an afternoon, but you can’t promise a life. Not when guards want your neck. Not when your only fortune is a satchel of stolen things. Don’t let them find you. Don’t let anyone hurt her because of you. That would kill you more surely than any noose. He forced a smile. “Okay, listen, Blondie.”
Her eyes widened in mock outrage. Blondie? Rapunzel blinked, then clapped a hand over her mouth to stop herself from giggling. “Hey!” she protested, still laughing. “I told you my name is Rapunzel.”
Flynn startled, then softened, grinning sheepishly. Of course she did. Of course she’s Rapunzel. He loved the way she said it, gentle and bright. “I know, I know,” he said quickly. “But that name’s a mouthful. I thought a nickname might be easier. Funnier.”
Funnier, Rapunzel thought, and something warmed her chest. She’d never laughed so freely before. Never felt someone teasing her because they liked her, not to belittle her.
“But if you don’t like Blondie,” Flynn added, “I’ll think of a better one. Like angel.”
He tried to hide the gentleness in the joke, but Rapunzel heard and felt it anyway. Angel. She swallowed, her cheeks warm, her pulse humming. When he looks at me like that… I think I could fall in love forever.
Flynn watched her face blushing, and it nearly unraveled him. Oh stars. She’s beautiful. She’s so beautiful it hurts. And I’d gladly be ruined by her forever. Then his expression grew serious, the humor slipping away. “Look,” he said. “I can’t take you into town. Not near the main roads.” He hesitated, jaw tightening. “This kingdom and I are not on friendly terms. I’m wanted. If the guards see me, they’ll...” He cut himself off. They’ll hang me. They’ll hurt her. They’ll stop every beautiful thing between us before it even started. I can live with dying but not if it drags her down with me. Not her. Never her.
Rapunzel’s smile faltered, just barely. For a second, he thought she’d refuse, thought she’d step back into the world she knew. But she didn’t move away. She watched him. Really watched him like she could see the fear he tried to bury beneath jokes and bravado.
He’s scared for me, she realized, her heart pounding. He could have lied. He could have pretended he was fearless and invincible. But he’s telling me the truth. He promised and he meant it. She lifted her hand before she could stop herself, her fingers brushing his sleeve, hesitant and trusting. He called me angel, she thought, smiling. How can I not believe in someone who calls me that?
She trusts me. Stars above, she trusts me. How is that possible? How is someone like her choosing someone like me? Flynn smiled helplessly, determined to protect her. I’ll outsmart every guard in this kingdom. I’ll fight everyone if I have to. I’ll keep her safe even if it costs me every last thing I have. If the world wants to hurt her, it’ll have to go through me first. He leaned in. “I can take you,” he murmured, “but only into the woods. Not the city. Not where the guards will be. Just far enough for you to see the sky from a new angle. I’ll keep you safe. And I’ll bring you back. I promise.”
Rapunzel’s breath caught. A promise. He gives me a promise. And promises mean so much to me. “I’ll hold you to that promise,” she whispered.
“And I’ll keep it,” Flynn answered, his voice low and steady. I can’t give you a kingdom, Rapunzel. I can’t give you a crown or a name worth anything. But I can keep this promise. I can bring you back safely. I can be the one who never lies to you. If that’s all I ever become… let me be that. Because somehow loving you already feels like the one honest thing about my life.
“Okay,” she said at last, smiling. “But we must be careful.”
“We will be,” he said.
Before Flynn could say another word, a sharp, commanding voice interrupted their lovesick thoughts. “Rapunzel! Let down your hair!”
Rapunzel froze, terrified. Mother. No. No, no, please, not now. Not when Flynn is here. She’ll see him. She'll take him away. She’ll never let me see him again. Or, oh stars, she’ll hurt him.
She turned toward Flynn, panic flooding her face. “Hide! Please, you have to hide!”
Flynn blinked in shock. Hide? From what? But then he saw the real, deep fear in her eyes. She’s terrified. Whoever that is, she’s afraid of her. Afraid in a way no girl should ever be. I’d burn the whole kingdom to stop that fear. Just say the word, angel. I’ll fight for you. Just say it.
Rapunzel grabbed his arm and pulled him toward the wardrobe. Her hand shook violently.
She’s trembling and she’s holding on to me. She trusts me. Something inside Flynn broke open. And I’d happily be trapped in this dark little wardrobe forever if it means I’m close to her. But I want to protect her. But this is her plan. I should trust her.
She shoved him inside, her face close to his, closer than it had ever been. Their eyes met through the thin sliver of the door. “Please,” Rapunzel whispered urgently. “Don’t make a sound.”
Flynn nodded quickly, breath catching. For you, I’d be silent for eternity. For you, I’d keep a thousand promises without you even asking. Stars, Rapunzel, I’d do anything for you.
Rapunzel turned toward the window, heart pounding. Gothel’s voice grew sharper, closer, slicing into her thoughts but all she could think about was Flynn. I’m keeping him secret. I’m keeping him safe. I’m choosing him over Mother. He’s mine to protect. She forced her voice to sound steady. “One moment, Mother!” Her hands shook as she lowered her hair, out the window, still trembling. Please, Flynn. Stay quiet. Stay safe. Don’t disappear on me.
Flynn held his breath in the dark. She’s risking everything. For me. She deserves to see the world. To walk in sunlit fields and laugh without fear. And I want to give that to her. No matter what.
Rapunzel tried to act normal as Gothel climbed in. But inside, she was spiraling. She can’t see him. She can’t ruin this. He called me an angel, he told me the truth, he made me feel like I’m something more than a girl in a tower. He gave me hope, in minutes. No one has ever done that.
Gothel strode in triumphantly. “I have a big surprise.”
Rapunzel swallowed, forcing a smile. “Uh… good.”
“I brought back parsnips. I’m going to make hazelnut soup for dinner, your favorite. Surprise!” Gothel swept in like she owned the tower, the sky, and Rapunzel’s every breath.
Rapunzel smiled tightly, fingers curling behind her back. She always does this, sweet words to bury my dreams. But I can’t forget them. Not after Flynn. Not after hearing the way he said my name. Not after feeling… wanted. Seen.
She gathered her courage. “Well, Mother, there’s something I wanted to ask you...”
“Oh, Rapunzel,” Gothel sighed dramatically, interrupting her, “I hate leaving you after a fight. Especially when I’ve done absolutely nothing wrong.”
Flynn closed his eyes in the dark, his jaw clenching. Nothing wrong? This girl looks like she hasn’t spoken to another person in years. She’s lonely. She’s scared. And she still smiles like sunrise. His hands curled into fists. She deserves the world. And I want to be the one who gives it to her. Even if all I can offer her right now is silence in a closet. He pressed his forehead to the cabinet wall. Hold on, angel. I’m here. I’m not leaving.
And Rapunzel, standing just a few feet away, thought the same thing. “Mother, I wanted to ask if you...”
“Rapunzel, I hope you are not still talking about going outside. Because you are not leaving this tower. Ever!” Gothel snapped.
Rapunzel stumbled back, heart pounding, her fingers brushing the wardrobe door where Flynn hid. If Mother opens it... if she finds him... No. No, she can’t. She’ll take him away. She’ll never let me see him again. She’ll destroy this tiny, impossible hope he gave me. Her heart ached sharply.
Inside the closet, Flynn clenched his jaw so hard it trembled. How dare she speak to her like that? How dare she lock her away like some treasure she hasn’t earned? Rapunzel deserves sky. She deserves wind, a whole world at her feet. And I want to be the one who shows it to her. I want to be the one who sets her free. But he couldn’t, not yet. Not while he was wanted, hunted, half a man with half a life to offer.
Gothel’s voice softened. “Oh, now I’m the bad guy.”
“Oh, no.” Rapunzel forced a smile. “I know I should stay in here and all I was going to say was that I… know what I want for my birthday now.” She swallowed. “New paints. The kind made from the white shells, the ones you brought before.” Her lips trembled. She turned away so Gothel wouldn’t see. It’s okay to lie. You have to. Think of Flynn. Think of the forest waiting for you. Think of the world he promised. Hold on. Don't let Mother take this from you.
“That’s a long trip, Rapunzel. Almost three days’ time.”
Rapunzel nodded quickly. “I just thought it was better than… going outside.” Than fighting. Than begging. Than hoping. Better than being caught dreaming when my dream is hiding behind a wooden door, waiting for me.
From the closet, Flynn shut his eyes. Three days. She bought us three days. She’s brilliant, brave, clever and she’s doing it for us. I’d steal the world twice over if it meant she never had to be afraid again.
Gothel, satisfied, tilted Rapunzel’s chin. “You’re sure you’ll be all right on your own?”
Rapunzel forced a smile. “I know I’m safe… as long as I’m here.” Safe because he’s here. Safe because for the first time, I’m not alone. Safe because I finally have something, someone to hold on to. “And I’ll just have my fun with whatever’s here in this tower… right now,” she added, smiling mischievously. With him, she thought.
Gothel didn’t hear the double meaning. “I’ll be back in three days’ time. I love you very much, dear.”
“I love you more,” Rapunzel whispered.
“I love you most.”
And then Gothel was gone, her footsteps fading. Silence fell.
Rapunzel sagged against the wall, relief shaking through her. She pressed a hand to her racing heart. Then she turned to the wardrobe.
The door creaked open, slow, gentle like he was afraid she might vanish if he moved too fast. Flynn stepped into the light. His eyes were still burning wit fury and heartbreak for her from what he’d heard, but the moment he saw her, everything inside him softened. Three days. She gave us three days. Three days where she’s free enough to choose me. Three days where I can protect her, make her smile, give her something real. My life changed the moment I saw her. My heart… stars, my heart is already hers.
Rapunzel stared at him like a lovesick puppy. He stayed. He didn’t run. He didn’t disappear. He’s right here, with me. And suddenly I can breathe. Suddenly the world feels close enough to touch.
“Well, your mother sounds… how can I put it…” Flynn began carefully.
“Oh, she’s just trying to protect me,” Rapunzel said quickly, as though convincing herself.
Flynn stared at her, smiling helplessly. She’s so beautiful. Too beautiful. I just want to pull her into my arms and hold her until all her fears disappear. No. Stop it, Flynn. She’s not for you. She could never be for you. But stars, look at her… “That seemed a little too overprotective,” he managed gently. “But I assume she’s really gone for those three days now? I mean, I thought we were only going around the woods this afternoon?”
“Oh. Of course.” Rapunzel’s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “I’m sorry, Flynn. I just thought… it was stupid. I can’t possibly ask you to take me around for three days if you’re wanted by the guards out there. I’m sorry.”
“No, don’t apologize. It’s okay,” Flynn said. She thinks she’s a burden. She thinks wanting something makes her selfish. Who made her believe that? Probably her awful mother. “It’s just… I was planning on leaving the kingdom soon.”
“And you can. You should. I’m sorry, I...”
“No, really, Rapunzel,” he said, stepping closer without thinking. Don’t leave me out of your plans. I’d rather be hunted with you than free without you. “It’s okay. I can take you around. It’s just… you shouldn’t be seen with me. People are after me and… maybe they’ll be after you too if they see you with me.”
“I can’t be seen by people anyway,” she said quietly. “They’d be after me.”
Flynn froze. “After you? Why? What?”
Don’t tell him. He’ll think you’re a freak. Don’t let him know about the hair. “Uh... it’s nothing, just…” She swallowed hard. “Let’s get on with it. The sooner we leave, the sooner you can go and… leave the kingdom.”
But when she gathered her hair and tossed it around the hook at the window, letting the golden hair spill out the window, Flynn’s breath caught. She’s lowering me down on her hair. Her hair. And she trusts me to go first. She trusts me with this impossible, magical piece of her life. And I’m still here. Still falling like a lovesick fool. “Climbing down hair? Okay. Not weird at all,” he muttered to himself, then slid down, landing at the base of the tower. Then he looked up, waiting, holding his breath.
And then she came. Rapunzel hugged Pascal and her pan to her chest, took a deep breath and slid down toward him, laughing. His hands lifted instinctively, ready to catch her, ready to catch her forever.
But she stopped just above the earth, eyes widening in terror.
“What is it?” Flynn asked softly, stepping closer, ready to shield her from anything, even the ground itself.
“I... I’ve never… I’ve never touched grass before,” she whispered.
Flynn stared, heart twisting. Never touched grass? Does this mean she lived her whole life in a cage? And she still smiles like the sun. How? “You’re kidding,” he said, though gently. “You mean you have never touched grass before? That’s impossible.”
“It could be poison!” she yelped. What if it hurts? What if the ground rejects me? But she lowered herself slowly. One toe brushed the grass. Then her heel. She gasped then jerked back in shock.
Flynn tensed, arms half‑extended, ready to cradle her.
But she stopped, stared at her feet, and whispered, “Wait. I’m fine?” She crouched, pressing her palms into the grass. “It’s not poison,” she breathed. “It’s… soft.” And then she laughed, falling back into the grass and rolling onto her back.
Flynn could barely breathe. She’s glowing. She’s radiant. She’s tasting freedom for the first time and I, gosh, I’d set the world on fire to give her another moment like this. I’m ruined. Completely ruined.
A puff of white drifted past. Rapunzel sat up, gasping. “Oh! What’s that?”
“A… dandelion,” Flynn said, his voice barely there. How can someone be this magical just by seeing the world?
She jumped to chase the floating seeds, laughing happily. Then she spotted a stream.
“Rapunzel!”
Too late. She plunged in with a splash, water spinning around her as she twirled and tossed handfuls of droplets toward the sky. “This is so wonderful!” she cried. “Yes!”
Flynn stood frozen. I’m done for. This is it. I will never come back from this. Her first breath of freedom is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. His throat tightened. “Rapunzel…” he finally managed, barely audible. “When was the last time you were outside?”
She turned toward him, soaked, breathless, radiant. “I can’t believe I did this,” she whispered. “I can’t believe I did this. I can’t believe I did this!”
She spun across the grass, her golden hair flashing around her, then she stiffened abruptly. “Mother will be so furious,” she breathed, horrified. Then she brightened instantly. “That’s okay though! What she doesn’t know won’t kill her, right?” She looked up at the sky as if waiting for confirmation. “...Oh my gosh. This will kill her.”
Then she spun again. “This is so fun!” Then she stopped and hit her forehead against a tree. “I am a horrible daughter. I’m going back.” She dropped onto the grass, limbs sprawled. “I am never going back.”
Then she covered her face with both hands. “I am a despicable human being.” A heartbeat later she sprang up, yelling, “WAHOOOOO! BEST DAY EVER!” Only to break down crying a second later.
Flynn watched, helpless and spellbound. Oh, sunshine… she’s drowning in freedom and fear all at once. She has so much joy inside her. And she thinks she’s wrong for feeling it. Who did this to her? Who taught her that happiness is something she has to earn? He walked over, heart aching, and sat down beside her. “Um… Rapunzel.”
She peeked through her fingers at him like she expected judgment.
“You know,” he said gently, “I can’t help but notice you seem a little at war with yourself here.”
“Really?” she sniffed.
Flynn softened. “Now, I’m only picking up bits and pieces, but… something’s not right. You’re feeling guilty for going outside, something people do every day without even thinking. Your mother sounds more than overprotective. And the way you reacted…” He hesitated. “It’s like you’ve never been outside before.”
“Well… um…” Don’t tell him. Don’t tell him how pathetic you are. Don’t let him see how strange your life is.
“And now you’re finally free, and you feel like you’re doing something wrong.” Flynn swallowed. “Honestly? I hate seeing you sad. You looked so wonderful, spinning around like a little ray of sunshine and then...” He blinked, then smiled. “Wait. Sunshine. That’s it.”
She looked up, puzzled. “What?”
“That’s what I’m calling you. Sunshine.” His smile deepened. “It fits you. Your personality. Your hair. Everything.”
Rapunzel giggled, delighted and Flynn’s heart pounded. She’s giggling. At something I said. And her eyes… stars, they are so bright. Oh no. Oh no, I’m doomed. I’ve never seen anything more beautiful in my life. Please stop smiling. No, don’t stop. Never stop. Oh, I’m so gone. I’m already hopelessly in love.
They sighed dreamily at the exact same moment.
She’s a ray of sunshine. I could look at her forever. I want to wake up to that smile every day. I want... No. No, Flynn. You do not get to fall in love. You have nothing. No home. No name. She deserves a hero, not a wanted thief. Stop it. Stop it... Too late. I love her. I love her so much I think it’s going to kill me.
Rapunzel hugged her knees, blushing. Oh stars, he’s so handsome. And the way he looks at me, like I’m precious. Like I matter. Why do I want him to hold me? Why do I want to curl into him and stay there forever? Why am I wondering what he looks like without his shirt?! Oh no. What is happening?! Am I cursed??
Her heart beat wildly. His did too. And they sat there in the grass, two people trying very hard not to look madly in love and failing spectacularly.
“Rapunzel,” Flynn said softly. “Have you really never been outside?”
She swallowed, blinking back tears.
“It… really seems like it,” he whispered. “Gosh. That’s… that’s awful.” And he meant it. No one should live without sunlight. No one should feel guilty for being alive. Especially not her. Not my sunshine. And I swear, I’ll make sure she never feels that way again.
Rapunzel swallowed hard. For a long moment, she didn’t speak, just stared at the grass. Then, barely audible, she spoke: “…No.”
Flynn didn’t move. But his heart hurt so much.
“I’ve… never been outside. Not once. Not even for a minute. I’ve never touched grass or seen a river or felt the wind on my face unless it blew through the window. My whole life, I’ve only… watched. From far away.”
She folded her arms around herself. “And now that I’m here,” she whispered, “now that I finally stepped into it, I feel like I’ve been starving my whole life without knowing it. And I’m happy, so happy I could scream but also terrified that just standing here is something unforgivable.” She hesitated. “…I don’t know how to be a person out here,” she said. “I don’t know how to belong to the world. What if the world doesn’t want me?”
Flynn stared. He began to understand. She was someone wounded but still kind. Someone isolated but still hopeful. Someone who had taught herself joy even when the world had given her nothing. His chest ached. She thinks the world won’t want her? No. The world doesn’t deserve her. Slowly, carefully, he reached out, taking her hands carefully. “Rapunzel,” he said quietly. “Listen to me.”
She looked up at him, eyes wide.
“The world should be begging for the chance to know you. You don’t need to figure out how to belong to it,” Flynn continued. “You already do. You walked outside for five minutes and somehow… somehow made it brighter. And if the world is too stupid to see that...” He managed a crooked grin, “...well. Tough for the world. Because I see it.” His thumb brushed her knuckles. “And I’m not going to let it hurt you.” I’d burn kingdoms. I’d fight guards. I’d steal the moon if it meant you’d feel safe. If I could take every fear from your heart and carry it myself, I would. Say the word and I’ll build you a home. You are everything. And I am already yours. Just say the word, say anything and I’ll fight heaven and earth for you. But all he said aloud was, “You belong right here, right now. With me. And I don’t want to be anywhere else.”
As he spoke, the world fell away. There was only him and his hand holding hers like she was something precious. No one had ever looked at her this way.
“Flynn…” she whispered, voice trembling. She wanted to say so much. Don’t let go. Stay close. Don't ever look at anyone else like that. I want to be the one you smile at forever. But all she said was, “No one’s ever said something like that to me before.” She leaned closer. “And I…” she breathed, “I don’t want to be anywhere else either.”
Flynn forgot how to breathe. Her fingers tightened around his.
But before anything else could happen between them, voices broke through the trees.
“Oh, oh.” Flynn froze.
“What?” Rapunzel asked.
He caught her hand without thinking. Warm, soft, perfect. Don’t let go. Stars, don’t let go. She blushed. So did he. But neither pulled away. “Come on, Sunshine,” he whispered, guiding her gently into the bushes.
He called me Sunshine again.
She followed me without hesitation.
They crouched low just as guards marched past. Flynn stiffened and Rapunzel saw the way his jaw clenched, how scared he looked.
“Where is Rider?” the captain growled. “He must be nearby. Find him. The king wants him hanging from a rope by dawn.”
Rapunzel gasped. She leaned closer to Flynn without realizing it. “Who’s that?”
He exhaled slowly. “Those are the guards looking for me. Because I stole the crown.”
Rapunzel didn’t know what to say. He was surrounded by enemies and still, he had stayed. Still, he had chosen to protect her.
Flynn’s thoughts spiraled. What am I doing? Everywhere I go, danger follows. She’s too good. Too bright. If I let this go on, if she falls for me, every enemy I have will go after her. And I have nothing. No home. No money. No name worth speaking. I swore I’d never be like him. Like my father. Never start something I couldn’t finish. Never get close unless I could offer safety, marriage, forever. She deserves a castle. Not a wanted criminal hiding in bushes.
She squeezed his hand gently. “Flynn. They’re gone.”
Flynn let out a breath he didn’t know he’d been holding. “That was too close.”
“What would they do to you if they caught you?” she asked softly.
He hesitated. “…Kill me.”
She gasped in horror, clasping her hands over her mouth. “What? That’s... Flynn, that’s horrible. Why would the King, your father, want that?”
Flynn laughed bitterly. “Oh, he doesn’t even admit I’m his. He’s… he’s a terrible man. And now he thinks killing me is a fair price for what I stole.”
Rapunzel stared at him, eyes wide and heart breaking. “Is the crown worth your life?”
He stepped out of the bushes, turning away to hide his panic. “We should… just look around a bit and then… maybe it’s best if we...”
“Flynn?” She reached for his hand, but he pulled away. Her face fell.
“I’m sorry,” Flynn said quietly. “I dragged you into this. You shouldn’t be anywhere near me. If they see you with me, they’ll go after you too. I’m poison, Rapunzel. I ruin everything I touch.” Please disagree. Please tell me I’m wrong. Please say you’ll stay. Please, choose me anyway.
But before she could answer, a voice called. “There he is! With an accomplice.”
Flynn spun around, panic flashing across his face. No. Not her. They will not touch her. Not while I still breathe. He stepped in front of her without hesitation, shielding her with his entire body.
Rapunzel’s heart stuttered. He’s… protecting me. Like I’m worth dying for. She grabbed the frying pan and placed it into his hand.
“For me?” he whispered. She trusts me to defend her.
“For us,” she breathed.
The captain stepped forward, sword raised. “I’ve waited a long time for this, Rider.”
Flynn had no sword, no shield, just a frying pan. And the girl he’d already die for. He swung. For her. Each guard fell, but he barely felt the strain, his entire world had narrowed to the girl behind him and the vow pounding in his chest, Protect her. Protect her. Protect her. He was fighting for her safety.
When the last guard fell, Flynn stood panting, hair a mess, smiling. “Oh, Mama, I have got to get me one of these,” he grinned at the pan. Then, clang. And it flew from his hand. He hissed as his hand began to bleed. “Ouch... what...”
He froze. Staring at him, sword in mouth, was a massive white horse. “Maximus,” Flynn groaned. “You’ve got to be kidding.” The horse lunged and Flynn raised the pan. “You should know,” he shouted over his shoulder to Rapunzel, fighting the horse, “this is the strangest thing I’ve ever done.”
Maximus knocked the pan aside, slicing Flynn’s hand deeper. Blood dripped. “How about two out of three?” Flynn wheezed.
But before Maximus could strike again, Rapunzel moved, stepping between them. No one hurts him.
She… she’s protecting me. Oh stars. I love her. I love her so much it hurts.
But then Maximus lunged at her. Flynn didn’t think, he just moved faster than he ever had, throwing himself in front of Rapunzel again, arms out, voice cracking with terror, “Don’t hurt her! Don’t even touch my Rapunzel! Do what you want to me, but please, please, don’t hurt her. I’ll do anything, anything, just don’t touch her. Please, I’m begging you!” My Rapunzel. The words left him before he could stop them. “You want the damn crown?” He threw the satchel at the horse’s hooves. “Here, take it. Just leave us alone.”
Maximus picked it up, but continued glaring, still advancing on Flynn.
“What? I gave it back! What more do you want?!” Flynn barked, panic flashing across his face again.
Rapunzel rushed forward. “No! Stop it, horse. Please!”
Maximus froze.
Flynn’s jaw dropped. Of course he listens to her. Everyone listens to her. Even a palace horse. Who wouldn’t? She’s… she’s magic. If she asked me to kneel and swear my life to her, I’d do it. I’d do it without thinking.
Rapunzel crouched before Maximus. “Oh, you are such a good boy,” she whispered, brushing the horse’s muzzle tenderly. “Yes, you are. You see… Flynn’s taking me to see the world. And I… I can’t do it without him.”
Flynn thought his heart might actually burst. She’s defending me. Me. A thief. A wanted man. A nobody. And she’s begging a palace horse to spare my life. Stars above, how can someone be this perfect? He wanted to sink to his knees and press his forehead to hers and swear he’d protect her for the rest of time.
“Please,” she whispered. “You got the crown back. Now you can stop chasing him and let him go. Please. And tomorrow is my birthday… just so you know.”
Flynn’s breath caught. She trusts me. She wants me by her side. She wants her birthday… with me. She’s trusting me to keep her safe, to make her dreams come true. And I’d give up the world for her. Anything for her. Stars, I’m already hers. She doesn’t even know my real name and I’m hers.
Maximus snorted, finally turning and galloping off.
Rapunzel exhaled shakily. Flynn stared, smiling helplessly, hopelessly. “Wow,” he breathed, wiping blood from his hand without even feeling it. He couldn’t take his eyes off her. “Thank you. You… you just saved me.”
Rapunzel smiled, small and shy. Her heart was pounding so loudly.
“Are you all right, Sunshine?” he asked worriedly. His thumb brushed over her hand again.
Sunshine. He called me that again. His Sunshine. “Yes,” she whispered, blushing. “I’m all right. And… thank you for protecting me. I’m sorry you lost your crown treasure.”
“Don’t be,” Flynn murmured, voice low. “That wasn’t my real treasure.” I’d lose everything a thousand times if it meant keeping you safe. Even my life. Especially my life.
Rapunzel’s breath caught. “Um… then what is your real treasure?”
Flynn’s jaw tightened. She suspects. She can’t know. She mustn’t. I can’t risk this. She deserves everything, and I… I have nothing to give her. Nothing. I can’t marry her. I can’t keep her safe. I’m a thief, a wanted man, a disaster. She deserves a life of light, not running and fear. I have to stop this before she falls for me… before she loves me. Stars, why is loving her so damn easy? She might even feel it too. But I can’t let her fall for me. I can’t offer her a home, or safety, or a life worth living. She deserves a king, not a thief. “Uh… uh…” he stammered, brushing a hand through his hair. Stop thinking, Flynn. Stop it. She’s staring at you like you’re the world. And maybe… maybe she already is in love as well.
Rapunzel searched his face. “Flynn?”
He exhaled, finally surrendering. If she sees me fully, all of me, maybe she’ll turn away. Maybe. I must tell her to protect her. “Eugene,” he said quietly, covering his face with his hands.
“What?”
“That’s my real name. It’s Eugene Fitzherbert. You should know the whole truth about me.”
Rapunzel blinked, her heart soaring, then smiled. He trusted me. He told me the whole truth. His real name. I have to tell him something too. “Well…” she whispered, stepping closer, and gently touched his bloodied hand. Both of them shivered. “I… I have magic hair that glows when I sing.”
Flynn dropped his hands to blink at her. “What? You’re making fun of me, right?”
“I’m not making fun of you,” she added softly, eyes shining. “I want to show you.”
He swallowed, caught between awe and longing. I could stay like this forever. Just looking at her, holding her hand, knowing she’s real and here and mine. “First… let’s go farther away from those knocked-out guards,” he said, gently guiding her through the trees. “Who knows how long they’ll stay unconscious.”
As the forest swallowed them, Flynn set a small campfire far away from the guards. His heart pounded. She’s here. I’m here. And nothing else matters. Not the guards, not the crown, not the life I thought I’d live. Only her. Only Rapunzel. My sun, my light, my everything.
And as they sat near the fire on a fallen tree trunk, hands brushing, both of them thought the same thing, I have never felt like this before.
I am utterly, irreversibly, hopelessly hers… and I don’t want to be saved from it.
Rapunzel carefully wrapped her hair around Flynn’s injured hand, her touch gentle. He’s letting me do this. He trusts me. Could he really be in love with me? My heart feels too big for my chest. What’s happening to me? Am I in love too? “Just… don’t freak out,” she whispered, her voice trembling.
Flynn raised an eyebrow, trying to play it cool, but his heart was already pounding. She’s so beautiful. That blush, the way she leans close… Stop it, Flynn. Don’t even think about it. Don’t you dare. You’re already completely gone.
Then she began to sing. “Flower, gleam and glow, let your power shine. Make the clock reverse, bring back what once was mine…”
While she sang, golden light spilled from her hair. Flynn stared, mouth parting. The bloody mark on his hand vanished. I’m going crazy. This can’t be real. Her hair is glowing. She’s, she’s a miracle. She’s an actual miracle. “Ahhh!” he started, nearly falling backward.
“Please don’t freak out,” Rapunzel said quickly, her eyes wide.
“I’m not freaking out. Are you freaking out?” He tried to laugh but his voice cracked. “No, I’m just very interested in your hair and the magical qualities it possesses… How long has it been doing that, exactly?”
She smiled awkwardly, looking down. “Uh. Forever, I guess. Mother said when I was a baby people tried to cut it. They wanted to take it for themselves. But once it’s cut… it turns brown and loses its power.” She showed him her cut-off brown strand. “A gift like that, it has to be protected. That’s why Mother never let me…” She hesitated. “That’s why I never left the…” She sighed, looking away.
Flynn’s heart broke. She’s been locked away her whole life. Alone. Hidden like a secret. My poor Rapunzel. My sunshine. No one deserves that, least of all her. “You never left that tower,” he said softly. “And… you’re still gonna go back?”
She hesitated. “No… yes. Ugh. It’s complicated.” She buried her face in her hands. Don’t let him see you like this, Rapunzel. Don’t be pathetic. He’ll think you’re weak.
But when she peeked out from between her fingers, his eyes were already on her, soft, sad, protective.
“So, Eugene Fitzherbert, huh?” she teased lightly, trying to push away the tension with a smirk.
“Ah yeah, well…” Flynn shifted, uncomfortable. Right. I told her to scare her off, so she wouldn’t fall for me. Because being in love with me would be a punishment. But she’s still here. She’s still looking at me like that. “I’ll spare you the sob story of poor orphan Eugene Fitzherbert. It's a little bit ah... It's a little bit of a downer,” he muttered.
She leaned closer, curious. “Tell me anyway.”
He chuckled softly, then began, voice low and a little wistful. “There was this book. A book I used to read every night to all the younger kids. The tales of Flynnigan Ryder. Swashbuckling rogue, richest man alive. Not bad with the ladies, either. Not that he’d ever brag about it, of course.”
“Was he a thief too?”
Flynn’s smile faltered. “Ahh, well, no. Actually, he had enough money to do whatever he wanted to do. He could go wherever he wanted to go. And for a kid with nothing…” He shrugged, looking down. “It just seemed like a better option.”
Rapunzel giggled softly, eyes shining. He’s not just some thief. He’s a boy who wanted more. Who dreamed bigger. Who cared about others enough to read them stories. Oh, Eugene…
“You can’t tell anyone about this, okay? It could ruin my whole reputation,” Flynn said quickly, only half-joking.
“Oh, you wouldn’t want that,” she teased, laughing.
“A fake reputation is all a man has,” he replied, smirking, but his heart was hammering when she laughed. She makes me feel like I’m someone better than I am. She makes me want to be a better man.
They both laughed together, then the laughter faded as their eyes met.
She tilted her head slightly. “Hey. For the record… I like Eugene Fitzherbert much better than Flynn Rider.”
Flynn blinked, stunned. Oh, stars. Nobody’s ever said that to me before. I wanted to push her away with the truth, but I think I just did the opposite. She’s looking at me like… like she actually likes me. Me. “Well, then you’d be the first,” he said softly, dreamily. “But… thank you.”
Everything went still. Her gaze dropped to his lips and his lingered on hers. Neither of them moved at first, like they were afraid it would break the spell.
She’s so close. What if she wants to kiss me? I can’t do that and I shouldn’t. But I’m going to.
He’s leaning in. He’s really leaning in. Oh stars, I want this. I’ve never wanted anything so much in my life.
They both closed their eyes, leaning closer, closer, until their foreheads nearly touched. Their breaths caught, their hearts pounded wildly. They had leaned in so close that Rapunzel could feel his breath against her lips, warm and inviting.
And then Flynn jerked back as if the closeness scared him, which it did. Touch wasn’t easy for him. It reminded him of painful childhood memories in the orphanage he tried desperately to forget. Hands grabbing him, touching him against his will while nobody helped.
“Uh... haha...” He laughed awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. “We should… probably… go to sleep. Big birthday tomorrow, right?” He looked away quickly. No, stop it. Stop it, Flynn. You can’t let her fall for you. You’re a mess. If you’re both in love, what then? You can’t marry her. You can’t marry anyone. You’ve got nothing, no money, no home, no job. You couldn’t even give her the closeness she clearly wants because of your pathetic past. You couldn’t even give her yourself. Just a lifetime of crimes. Even if you stopped stealing, your enemies would still be there. She’d always be in danger. What kind of husband would you be? You’d ruin her. She deserves a castle, not a wanted man. Don’t do this to her. Don’t drag her down with you. His name was dirt. His pockets empty. And his heart, the only thing he could give her, felt far too small to be worthy of hers.
Rapunzel looked at him, anxious, her lips still tingling from the almost-kiss. Then she quickly turned away, blinking back tears. Oh, I’m an idiot. He doesn’t like me. Why would he? I misread all the signs. I’m so stupid. What was I even thinking leaning in like that? He’s Flynn Rider. Why would he want to kiss me? Why would he want… me? Oh, and what’s wrong with me? Why do I want his lips on mine so badly? Why do I keep thinking about him without his shirt on? I’m such a mess. She quickly moved away from him, hiding her face.
“Rapunzel, wait...”
“No, I’m sorry. I should just go to sleep.” She turned her back to him.
Flynn felt his heart breaking. Oh no. I hurt her. I’m a monster. I hurt my beautiful Rapunzel. My sunshine. She was smiling at me, trusting me, and I shut her out. Maybe she has fallen for me, but she can never be mine. I never should have let this happen. Why didn’t I stop this before it was too late? He reached out, taking her hands gently, desperately. “Rapunzel, I’m so sorry.”
“You don’t have to apologize.”
“Yes,” Flynn breathed, “I do.” He squeezed her fingers. “The reason I pulled back was… because I’m scared.”
She turned slightly, confused. “Scared? Of what?”
“Of starting something I can’t finish,” he said, voice low. “Of hurting you, of being the reason you’re in danger.” Of loving you so much it ruins you.
She smiled. “Oh, Eugene…”
Flynn closed his eyes. Gosh, the way she says my real name… “You immediately call me that?” he whispered.
“Well… it’s your real name.” She gave him a shy smile. “And I like it. A lot.” Her smile faded. “But maybe you’re right. I mean… you have to leave the kingdom eventually, and I…” She swallowed. “I have to go back to my tower.”
The thought hurt Flynn so much. “I can’t let you go back there,” he said, his voice sharp and pained. “Not after everything you’ve just told me.”
“But it’s my home,” she whispered. “The only one I’ve ever known. Mother would never let me leave again. And I have no one else. Nowhere else to go. And if people want my hair…”
“Rapunzel,” Flynn whispered, “I’ve been across every inch of this kingdom. No one is hunting a girl with magic hair. And even if they were...” He touched her hair lightly. “Why don’t you just cut it?”
She stared at him, horrified. “Cut it? Eugene, no...”
“Then no one could use you.” His voice broke. “You’d be free.”
“But my hair is a gift…”
Flynn shook his head softly. “It sounds more like a curse to me.”
She looked down, hurt and torn. Mother always told me it was a blessing… so why do his words feel truer? “But… Mother… she’d never forgive me.”
“Your mother,” he murmured, “sounds cruel. How do you escape her?” He paused, then flinched. “Most girls escape parents like that by…” He stopped.
“By what?” she whispered.
Flynn swallowed hard. By marriage. By choosing someone else. By choosing me. Gosh, if she only knew how desperately I want to ask her. How badly I want to build a home for her. Give her a life, a name, a forever. But he couldn’t. He had nothing. He was nothing. And he couldn’t even love her physically. So, he forced a small smile. “Angel, don’t think so much about that. It’s getting late. We’ll figure everything out tomorrow. Just go to sleep now. And don’t worry, I’ll stand watch and keep you safe. From everything. I promise.”
She couldn’t help but smile, her heart pounding. “Keep me safe?”
“Forever.”
Her heart swelled. “Thank you, Eugene. For everything.”
“You deserve everything,” Flynn said dreamily.
Before she could stop herself, Rapunzel pressed a quick, trembling kiss to his cheek. Then she quickly hurried a few steps away and wrapped herself in her hair. “Goodnight, Eugene.”
He stared at her, dazed. “Goodnight, my darling...” he coughed, “I mean, Rapunzel.”
As Rapunzel drifted off, she couldn’t stop smiling. I think he could really like me. Perhaps even love me. And I’m in love with him as well.
Flynn watched her until she drifted into sleep, smiling helplessly as he realized: I love her. Yes, I love her. And I can’t fight it anymore.