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Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (3 Weeks Before The Wedding)

The 25^th birthday for the princes of King George’s kingdom was a much-anticipated affair. Everyone knew that these were the nuptials that would save them from poverty. For some reason, their crops had not been prosperous, they had struggled with business connections. James had gone on a mission with his then-girlfriend, Jack, to steal from the giants that lumbered above them but that only went so far. George had searched far and wide, finally making a deal with Rumpelstiltskin to find brides for his sons that would save his subjects (along with himself, most importantly) from starving.

For his youngest of the twins, there was probably the most important. King Midas had only one child, a daughter named Abigail. She was fair with blonde hair and her nose stuck up so far. James knew from a mile away that she was not David’s type, not in the slightest, but it wasn’t as if they had much of a choice. What George said, went. They were to marry these women, if they knew what was good for them.

As for James, he was told that he was arranged to marry King Maurice’s sole heir as well. It made sense now to the prince why both kings had chosen to make this merger, they would never have sons to become kings themselves. In the sexist patriarchy, they would exchange their daughter’s hands and some money, for promise of a male ruler down the line. James could practically see his mother shaking his head.

The twins stood in the meeting hall in the weeks leading up to their birthday/wedding. They had been instructed to wear their finest suits, having been scrubbed clean by the handmaidens. To tell them apart, David’s suit was red, while James’ was black. Their crowns were nestled atop their head. While they had seen Abigail at several balls before, this would be their first-time meeting Belle as her castle was a bit further away.

The door opened and George walked in, his stern look on. That immediately got James smirking a bit. David nudged him, but he simply ignored him.

“The princesses and their fathers will be here in a few minutes,” George said. “You are to address the kings as “your majesty” and bow.”

“We’ve gone through this whole song and dance since we were 5, Father,” James butted in.

George turned to him. “You’ll keep your smart mouth in check, do you understand me?”

“What about my dumb mouth?”

His father marched up to him, grabbing hold of his collar. James remained calm. He wouldn’t punch him, not now, with guests due to arrive at any moment. “You think this is how your mother would want you to behave?”

That got the smirk to leave James’ face. He swallowed, quickly and pulled away from his father, pushing down the wrinkles. His eyes cascaded to the floor, staring intently at the green and white pattern that was there. George shook his head.

“That’s what I thought.” There was a knock at the door. “Yes?”

It opened and one of the butlers appeared. “Your majesty, King Midas, King Maurice and their daughters have arrived. They’re waiting for you all in the dining room.”

“Very well, we’ll be right there.” The butler nodded before leaving. “Best behavior, got it?”

David and James nodded, before following their father down to the dining room. Sure enough, the two kings stood front and center. Midas was a tall man with curly blonde hair, who wore one of his magnificent robes as always. The silver gloves that blocked his hands from causing any damage were on as well. Beside him was the shorter and portlier Maurice. The crown atop his head barely hid the balding (though still more hair than George) and he wore less colorful clothes than Midas, a permanent scowl on his face as well. David and James bowed as they had been instructed.

“Maurice, Midas,” George said, “These are my sons, David and James. David is in the red, James is in the black.”

“I remember them well, they’re all grownup now,” Midas said, a smile on his face. He stepped to the side, gesturing so his daughter would step forward. “I believe you two will remember my daughter, Abigail. Abigail, sweetheart, David is going to be your husband.”

David gave his fiancé a polite smile, but Abigail didn’t do anything in return. Her honey blonde hair was piled on the top of her head in a bun, her arms crossed over her powder blue dress. She looked David up and down, the scowl not leaving her face.

“I suppose he’ll do.”

It took all James had not to roll his eyes at her. Any woman would be lucky to have David. Sure, he was annoying and he could have a bit of a hero complex, but he was more than just one to settle for. No one signed up for it either, and he was being cordial. Abigail had a permanent stick up her butt, it would seem.

Maurice cleared his throat. “This is my daughter, Belle.”

A young woman about the same height as the king took a step forward. She had long chestnut curls and big blue eyes. A yellow ballgown had been selected for her that evening and it complimented her quite well. Unlike Abigail, she had a smile on her face. She extended her hand.

“Charmed.”

James blinked a few times before kissing it as he had been taught in his years of etiquette class. “Yes, very nice to meet you. I am James.”

“I figured that,” she said with a giggle.

James smiled, watching Belle as the kings spoke. She was quiet, her hands folded neatly in her lap. It was clear she had the same training that he had, not that it was any surprise. For a minute, he worried that she might be too much of a delicate princess. When her father gave her a pointed look for reaching for a second roll at dinner, however, and she secretly rolled her eyes, he knew that she had a bit of sass in there as well.

After dessert, George stood up, leading the crowd to the stairs. “Farrah and Natalie will lead Maurice and Midas to their rooms. David and James, you shall do the same with Abigail and Belle, they’re the ones at the opposite sides of your wings.”

“You mean we won’t be sharing rooms right off the bat?” James asked, with a faux pout.

George gave him a look before regaining composure. “You know the rules James, not until your wedding night. Now, go on.”

James had to stifle a laugh. His father knew he was not a virgin by any means, but he’d plays along. Taking Belle by the hand, he lead her up the stairs to his wing, while David did the same with Abigail to his own. He opened the door, lighting a candle for her so she could see around. The maids had already unloaded her luggage, so she would be all set for her stay until the wedding. James couldn’t help but notice there was still a trunk left to unpack.

“I’ll go have Farrah get that one for you,” he said.

Belle shook her head. “Don’t worry, I told them to leave it be. It’s my books.”

James sized up the rather large trunk. “All of those are yours?”

“Yes.”

“You are aware that we’ll be moving into the summer palace after the wedding, right? They can move your collection there, after.”

“Oh, those aren’t all of my books, just what I’ll need for my stay.”

James’ did all he could to keep his mouth from dropping open. “Oh…well…tomorrow, I’ll take you to my library. You can keep your books with mine, and you’re more than welcome to borrow any you’d like as well.”

“Your library?”

“What, because I’m a prince you think I’m stupid?”

“No…I just…I’ve heard rumors…I…”

James shook his head. “Goodnight, Belle. Sweet dreams.” He shut the door and headed back to his room, thinking up a list of books to recommend to her.

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (October 23^rd, 2011)

The clock had started moving in the town square, but James was too busy that morning to notice. He balanced the tray of coffees in one hand, the box of various bagels and schmear in the other. All the while he had to make sure not a single drop got on his burgundy sweater or khakis, he’d never hear the end of it from his father.

The fall leaves were drifting from the trees and a cool breeze came through the air. Children wore the navy-blue sweater and longer khakis with their school uniforms, everyone except Ruby had discarded their shorts. James happened to like fall. It was pretty to look at from his desk, and it didn’t make him too depressed, wishing he was somewhere else, anywhere else.

Eventually, he made it to the offices of Spencer & Associates. The steel sign on the outside was as impersonal as the furniture and emotions inside. James stepped inside and began distributing the coffees one by one, dropping off the bagels in the breakroom before he dropped off the last to the boss himself.

Albert sat behind his mahogany desk in a grey suit, typing furiously on his computer. James cringed on the recipient’s behalf, knowing they must have pissed him off. He waited until his father finished, to clear his throat. Albert looked up, his eyes still narrowed.

“Can I help you, James?”

James held up the to-go cup. “Coffee, black.”

Like your soul.

James quickly shot that thought out of his head. He didn’t know who that was. Occasionally those ideas came to mind, but he knew they were bad. You didn’t speak to Father that way, not if you wanted to keep your job, your way of living. James was lucky his father still accepted him and loved him; he had been told so several times since he dropped out of law school. Albert gave him a job as an assistant at the firm and allowed him to remain living at home, despite being 28 years old. James was too stupid, too weak to work anywhere else. He wouldn’t make it on his own.

“Just look what happened when David tried,” Albert would tell him.

Albert nodded, his muscles loosening a bit. “Very well.’

James walked over, handing it to his father and watching his reaction to make sure it was right. “Busy day?”

“I have meetings. Make sure everyone stays out of my hair.’

“Of course, Father.”

“I need you to continue rearranging my filing system and then clean my office. Regina was set to come visit me today, but she canceled. Something about her son going missing.”

James tilted his head. “Again? Is he alright?”

“He’s none of our concern.” Albert fixed him with a look. “Get to work, and quit worrying about others.”

He lowered his head. “Yes, Father.”

James headed over to the filing cabinet, getting to work. The entire day was spent with mostly heavy work, between rearranging files, cleaning and making sure everyone had exactly what they needed. He barely had enough time to break for lunch. By the end of the day, he was exhausted, starving and just wanted to head home, but instead, he found himself heading for the hospital.

He took the elevator up to the coma ward, walking past the grim-looking nurses and over to his brother’s very open looking room. He paused upon seeing a petite brunette in the room, wearing a cardigan and floral skirt, holding a bouquet of flowers. James hovered in the doorway.

“Excuse me?”

She startled. “Oh…hi…I’m sorry…” She did a double-take. “Wow…you look…”

“Just like him. We’re twins.”

“Of course.” Her cheeks tinted. “I’m Mary Margaret Blanchard, one of the hospital volunteers. I come by to see your brother, read to him, you know? Just make sure he’s okay.”

“Oh.” James stood there dumbly for a minute, before realizing he hadn’t introduced himself. “I’m James, by the way. James Spencer.’ He gestured to the bed. “That’s David.’

Mary Margaret smiled. “I’ve seen.” The smile slowly faded. “Do they know what happened?”

James shook his head, a frown coming to his own face. “No. They just found him in the woods one day…unconscious. I can’t remember how long it’s been, but he hasn’t been awake in a long time.”

Across town, Lacey French was waking up from her late afternoon nap, cursing herself for agreeing to work those early morning shifts at Granny’s. She stumbled out of her bed, taking a brisk shower. Hopping from one foot to another, she pulled on her black thong, followed by her blue mini dress. She tied her auburn hair back, letting a few loose strands hang. Lacey popped her lips once the bright red gloss was on and blinked her eyes after the mascara. She was ready for a night on the town.

After years of practice, the black heels were little trouble to walk in, but she chose to hold them as she walked down the stairs. Poking her head into the living room, Moe was passed out in his Laz-E-Boy recliner, beer cans surrounding him, the football game on T.V. Lacey let out a sigh of relief and continued tiptoeing out the door. She slid on her heels on the porch, before continuing the walk over to her cherry-red Jaguar.

She sped into town, not even caring about the speed limit. Let Graham pull her over, she had Ruby to meet up with. Maybe she could flirt her way out of it with him, everyone knew he was way too soft unless Regina Mills was around.

As she got to the center of town, she realized she was coming to a red light and slammed on her breaks. Her lights shone brightly as a man stopped dead in his tracks in the middle of the crosswalk. He had a mess of blonde hair and looked a bit spooked, holding his jacket closer to him as if the car was about to pull a Christine. Lacey gave him an odd look, tilting her head and waving to signal that he could keep walking. The man stood there a bit longer, staring at her, his eyes practically boring a hole into hers. Normally, Lacey would’ve found it weird, but something felt…off. For a moment, it was as if they were the only two people in the middle of the road…

HONK!

Lacey snapped out of it and realized that the light had turned green. When she looked at the crosswalk, she realized that the mystery man was gone.

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (One Week & 13 Days Before the Wedding)

The library was more magnificent than Belle had imagined. The floor to ceiling bookshelves leaned against the beige and olive wallpaper, which was decorated with roses. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, sparkling under the glow of the wicker candles. The paintings on the wall were from each season: the forest in the winter, a local lake in the spring and a wooden cottage covered with fall leaves. The last was probably her favorite, a young girl wearing a simple white linen dress, reading a book in the summer sun. The girl had auburn curls and beautiful blue eyes, staring so intently at the pages. Belle wished her own father would have let her pose for her portraits in such a way.

Running her hands over the fine leather-bound spines, Belle let out a sigh. She had been in the castle for less than 24 hours, but she was already nervous. In less than two weeks, she was expected to marry James, a man she had only met the day before. That didn’t mean she hadn’t heard the rumors. He was a ladies’ man, a vicious knight. He wasn’t anything like his much calmer brother. Belle knew that no one was perfect, but she had always hoped she would marry for love. If what she heard was to be believed, after their wedding, James would be out slaying dragons and sleeping with the numerous women that threw themselves at him.

Yet, despite all the rumors, this was James’ personal library. According to the maid that helped her dress that morning, there was another that David and George used in the east wing. She had never heard of a prince having his own library before. The royals had to be well educated, but most princes didn’t care much for books. As she went to put her own collection away, she realized that they even had quite a few in common. Clutching Her Handsome Hero to her chest, she gasped to find an equally worn out copy on the shelf.

“Something wrong?”

Belle whipped around. James stood there, dressed much more casually than he had the night before. He wore a simple white top that flowed a bit and black pants. He clearly hadn’t shaven that morning, his shadow coming in darker than the blonde hair atop his head. There wasn’t even a sword to be seen on him. He looked relaxed, almost…normal.

“No, I just…” She shrugged and then gestured to the book on the shelf. “I’ve never met someone else that’s read Her Handsome Hero before, much less kept their copy until adulthood like me.”

James smiled, walking closer to her. His aftershave filled her nostrils, an intoxicating blend of sandalwood and lemon. “My mother read it to me, when I was young,” he said, taking his book.

A grin filled Belle’s face, the grip on her own copy loosening. “So did mine. It was actually the first book I learned to read on my own.”

“Mine too.”

They stood there for a moment, Belle feeling him practically glowing on her. What were the odds that they would like the same book, let alone have it be the first one they had read?

“I heard your mother past, recently,” James said, his smile dropping a bit. “I’m very sorry for your loss.”

Belle’s own beam faded. “Yes…about a year back.”

“I used to hate when people said this to me…but I get it.” He looked over at the summer portrait. “David and I lost our mother too, when we were 5 years old.”

Belle’s stomach flipped. She had never heard about a queen in George’s kingdom, only him. She took a closer look at the picture, how immersed the young woman had to be. It made sense now why James loved books. She had to have passed it onto him.

“She was beautiful.”

“She was,” James echoed. “Her name was Serafina.”

“My mother’s was Collette.” She let out a shaky breath, feeling brave to say what she hadn’t to her father. “I always pictured her here for my wedding. This whole thing is crazy enough…this just makes it harder.”

“I know what you mean.” James’ hand covered hers. “But you don’t have to go through this alone. I’m here too.”

His deep blue eyes were kind, yet pained. They looked like they had seen so much and as if they could write their own story. Belle realized that she had heard so much about her husband-to-be indeed, but knew so very little truths.

“James…I don’t know how any of this is going to work,” she admitted. “I agreed to do this, because it’s what my father wanted. I’ve felt so alone since my mother died and I don’t want to keep that up. I know we’re not in love but…I could use a friend.”

James smiled again and Belle’s heart cracked wide open. “Well, now you’ve got one.” He removed his hand and extended his elbow. “Why don’t we get to know each other better over some tea?”

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (October 25th, 2011)

Granny and Ruby were fighting again. It was nothing new at the zoo. At least over the past few days it seemed to be over something different, not just Ruby’s outfits or the fact that she couldn’t leave town because of Granny’s hip replacement. Lacey hated that one most of all. She was stuck in this God forsaken place too. She was meant to escape, but you didn’t see her complaining. There was nothing you could do about the hand life dealt you. So, Lacey just got up every morning and kept soldiering on. She worked the early morning shifts at the diner, despite the pounding headaches and bags covered by concealer. Sure, she could skip the nights out. But what would the fun be in that? If she couldn’t go to Los Angeles like she dreamed, then she’d party every night.

Ruby stomped into the back, her wild red streaked hair flying behind her. “I can’t work out there with her!” She exclaimed, exasperated.

“You’ll get through it,” Lacey assured as she scrubbed syrup off another blue plate. “Killing her will only land you in prison.”

“I’m serious, Lace. This morning is just too much. If I hear her judging me one more time, I’m going to lose it.”

Lacey didn’t say that Ruby should be lucky to have someone who cared. That maybe she should listen to Granny and take some responsibility every once in a while. That Granny got on her ass to and while she pretended she hated it, she secretly loved it because it’s not like anyone else did.

“Do you want me to man the cash register?” She offered instead. “It means you have to do the dishes.”

“Surprisingly, that sounds like a better offer right about now.”

Lacey chuckled and tossed Ruby the sponge. She started heading out of the kitchen, then paused.

“You know, maybe a night at the Rabbit Hole would clear your head,” she told her. “Always works for me.”

Ruby grinned. “I’ll meet you there. Eight o’clock?”

“Sounds like my time.”

Lacey took her spot at the cash register, looking around at the morning rush. Mary Margaret Blanchard was at her usual spot, eating oatmeal and toast. With her was the strange blonde newcomer that everyone had been whispering about. Rumor had it, she was Henry Mills’ birth mother. She had caused quite the headache for Regina and she didn’t envy this Emma Swan, as Ruby had said her name was. Madam Mayor wasn’t easy to deal with and once you were in her crossfire, it wasn’t easy to escape.

The bell above the door jingled and a new customer walked in. Something about him felt familiar to Lacey, yet for the life of her she hadn’t seen him before. He was wearing a navy-blue sweater and khakis. His blonde hair was perfectly gelled and he had a pair of round glasses on his face. He looked anxious in the crowd, his eyes darting every which way. It took Lacey a minute to realize he had been the pedestrian she nearly ran over the other night on her way to the bar. No wonder, he was so damn jumpy. Probably hardly left the house.

The man made it to the counter and the tilted his head. “You’re not Ruby.”

Lacey folded her arms over her chest. “Not the name my mother gave me, no.”

“Is Ruby alright?”

“She’s fine. Why? You obsessed with her or something?” She asked, feeling a bit protective of her friend.

The mystery man’s cheeks turned red. “No! Of course not! I…I…I just…” He stammered. Lacey bit her lip, trying to hold back a chuckle. She had been worried about this guy stalking her best friend? He probably couldn’t even step on an ant. “I just normally see her every morning is all.”

“Oh, I get it. Well, we switched positions today, so you’re stuck with me.”

“That’s, erm. Fine.”

“Not that you had a choice,” she countered, watching him grow an even darker shade of red.

“Of course not.” He peered down at her name tag. “L…Lacey. It’s nice to meet you, Lacey.” He fumbled his hand out of his pocket and extended it forward. “I’m James.”

Lacey stared at it for a moment, realizing she had gone a bit far with winding this guy up. She gently patted his hand, giving him an odd look. “Nice to meet you, James. Want to order?”

He moved back his hand, his lips turning downwards. For some reason, that made Lacey frown as well. “I have a list. All to go.” He went through his pocket once more, than pulled it out. “A dozen bagels, toasted, assorted cream cheese on the side…”

It was as if a switch had gone off for James. He was suddenly very professional, as if he had done this before. Lacey entered the items into registered and scribbled them onto the order pad. When he finished, she put the order on the line and turned back to him to accept payment.

“You must be really hungry.” He gave her an odd look. “All that food and coffee.”

“Oh…no…they’re not for me. They’re for the people I work with.”

Lacey tilted her head. “You work for a factory or something?” He was a bit too well dressed for that.

James chuckled, the first smile since he had coming out. “No. I’m an assistant at Spencer & Associates. My dad is Albert Spencer.”

Lacey’s eyes widened. She had just toyed with the son of Albert Spencer. One of the richest men in town. He was the one responsible for Game of Thorns nearly closing a few months back. If Gold hadn’t both given her father a loan and fought on his side as a huge favor for her, they would’ve been shit out of luck. Of course, she had to give Gold a blow job to make that happen and to not be so strict on the payback, but her father didn’t know.

Either way, her mouth was potentially going to get her in trouble again. If he went running to Daddy…

Shit, Lacey. Great job.

“Order up!”

It was Lacey’s turn to fumble as she turned around and grabbed the bag of food. She quickly poured out the tray of coffees, before thrusting everything James’ way.

“Thank you, come again.”

“See you around, Lacey.”

He flashed her a smile and it burned the pit of her stomach.

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (One Week & 10 Days Before the Wedding)

Belle turned around the corner, a heavy book clutched between her fingertips. She had discovered it within her possessions and couldn’t wait to share it with James. It had contained some of her favorite poems and she was hoping they could incorporate them in their wedding programs. She wasn’t sure how much he wanted to be involved with the planning of the wedding, but she also knew he loved literature just as much as she did. Outside their dress fittings, Abigail didn’t seem to care at all about the weddings. A part of Belle couldn’t blame her. They didn’t choose either of these fiancés. At the same time, Abigail spent most of her time holed up in her room. She only got dressed when her father finally demanded so. Would she ever get used to the idea of marrying David? For both of their sakes, Belle sure hoped so.

As Belle turned the corner for James’ library, she heard a thud. She carefully approached the door, peering inside. James was backed up against the door with his father before him. His eyes were wide and there was something written on his face that Belle had never seen before. Fear. James raised his hands in defense. George’s back was to the door, his shiny forehead glowing under the chandelier. James didn’t notice her either, his eyes trained on his father.

“Father, I’m sorry.” His voice was shaking. “It was just a joke.”

“A joke?” George let out a bitter laugh. “You think this entire thing is a fucking joke?” He slammed his fist against the wall right by James’ head, which made the younger man wince. Belle’s body tensed. “This merger is going to save our kingdom. You’re not going to mess it up by “joking” with Midas.”

“I don’t think he took it…”

“You think you’re so hilarious, but no one thinks you’re funny. In fact, if you disappeared, no one would miss you at all.”

Belle’s grip on the book intensified. How could a father talk this way to their child? James was kind, intelligent and charming. Sure, he had a bit of dark humor but that only added to what made him, him. A parent was supposed to love their child for who they were. George seemed cold and standoffish, but she didn’t imagine he was this cruel. A tingling sensation rose through her body that she didn’t quite understand. Anger? Hostility? Could she go as far as to say protectiveness?

James’ eyes narrowed at his father’s comment, his chin jutting outward. “I think you would. I mean, without me, how else would you get all the gold you need?”

George scoffed. “I should’ve let you be raised by those farmers. You would’ve been dead by your first birthday.” He went to grab hold of James’ collar and that’s when Belle decided she’d had enough.

“Lay a hand on him and I’ll let this book dent your skull,” she threatened loud enough for him to hear.

George spun around; his eyes aghast. James looked shocked, yet a small grin was creeping up on his lips. His father quickly composed himself. He stood up straight and cleared his throat. Belle kept her glare on him with her book held up in the air. She ignored the ache in her wrist, not about to leave James unprotected.

“I’ll beg you to remember your place, Belle,” George said.

Belle shrugged. “And I’ll remind you of who you need for this merger.”

George licked his lips, shaking his head. “A match made in Heaven indeed,” he muttered under his breath. His eyes darted back to his son. “We’ll finish this discussion later.”

“Touch him again and I’ll make sure you don’t get an ounce of my father’s gold.”

George shook his head, walking out of the room. Belle dropped the book onto a side table and ran over to James. She put one hand on top of his and another on his cheek.

“Are you alright?” She asked.

James nodded, letting out a deep breath. “You saved me from the worst he could’ve done.”

“I just…” She shook her head. “I’m so sorry. No father should talk that way to their child.”

“You clearly have never met George.”

“Well, no, but he was wrong. About all of it…” She trailed off, some of his words finally registered with her. “What did he mean? That you should’ve been raised with farmers?”

James sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “You’re going to be my wife. I suppose you know our great family secret.”

The private garden off the library was in full bloom. The azaleas showed off their pink as they danced in the wind. The cherry tree had lost its petals and instead had the sweet-smelling fruit instead. Multi-color rosebushes created a mini-maze. It had been lovely to look at in between reading Shakespeare and sips of honey tea. It was even nice for Belle to walk around with James.

“My mother always did what she could to shield David and I from George’s cruelty. She wanted us to be kind. Not the stereotypical princes you hear of. She read us stories; told us we didn’t have to be vicious knights if we didn’t have to.”

Belle ran her fingers over an azalea. “She sounds great.”

“She truly was.” He bit his lip. “But then she got sick. It spread quickly and she was gone before we really knew it. George put us into knight training almost immediately.”

“But you were only 5, right?”

James nodded and Belle frowned. “He didn’t care. He wanted us to be the perfect dragon slayers as soon as possible. David tried his best. He just wanted to please George so badly. I was scared, so I took off. I didn’t know where I was going but I managed to steal some money, pack a bag and went to Pleasure Island.”

Belle tried to picture James running away, but she was having trouble picture him as a 5-year-old. He just seemed totally broody and forever an adult.

“It was supposed to be a never-ending carnival but it was a nightmare. They turned kids into animals and once they got word I was a prince, they were after me. I didn’t last very long before a strange man appeared,” James continued. “He explained that I was his son.”

Belle’s brows furrowed. “What?”

James outstretched his arms. “Exactly what I said. He didn’t explain, but said if I went with him, we could go back to a farm. I could live a regular life with him and my “real mom” as he called her.”

“That had to be confusing.”

“It was. But at the time, it sounded nice. Animals, having a mom again…so I said yes.”

Guilt washed over his face. Belle touched his arm. “That doesn’t make you a bad son.”

“I know,” he whispered. “But I was so willing to give up the mom that raised me…”

“If she saw what George wanted to turn you into, she’d understand.”

James shrugged. He gently pulled away from her. “When we were getting off the island, George showed up. He tried to offer the man money but he refused. He introduced himself as my father. The two argued. It came out that the man, Robert, and his wife, Ruth, had me and David. They were too poor to raise us. They could barely keep their farm. So, Rumpelstiltskin showed up and made them a deal.”

“And they took it?” Belle tilted her head. She had heard some awful stories about the wizard.

“Robert says we were dying. He had gambled away money for our medicine. George couldn’t produce an heir so Rumpelstiltskin promised to find him one. In exchange for saving their farm, they would give up one child.”

“But both of you are with George.”

James sighed. “George revealed that Robert got greedy. He wanted extra money. So, he said they’d give both of us. Ruth didn’t want to, but he made the deal behind her back.”

Belle gasped. It seemed David and James had been screwed over in the fatherhood department on both ends. “Lords.”

“Robert said he felt guilty. He was sober and he wanted to make things right, he wanted Ruth to forgive him and he thought the only way to do that was to bring back one of the kids he sold. So, he wanted me.”

James braced the edge of the bush. A delicate flower crushed under his grip, causing him to wince.

“George ordered his execution. It was as if he were ordering a new rug for the main hall.” His glassy blue eyes stared off at the castle. “The guards carried him off and he was gone.” James swallowed, shaking his head. “If I hadn’t agreed to go with him, if I hadn’t run off…”

“James,” Belle returned her hand to his face, forcing him to look at her. “This isn’t your fault. None of it is your fault. Robert chose to go there that night. He knew he was kidnapping a royal child. Regardless, George didn’t have to do what he did, especially in front of a 5-year-old.”

James’ lip trembled. “I never told anyone about that. Not even David.”

Belle tilted her head. “Really?”

“On the ride home, George ordered me to secrecy. He told me that no one was ever to know, especially not my brother. If I ever breathed a word, I’d have a grave next to my biological father.”

“What a burden for him to place on your shoulders,” she whispered. “I am so sorry.”

James shrugged, wiping at his eye. “There’s so much damn pollen in this garden.”

Belle took a step back, not wanting to make him feel uncomfortable. So much made sense now. The rumors about a vicious prince, a lady killer. It was all to appease his father. The dark humor was from years of abuse and protecting a family secret. So much was weighing down on James and yet he kept that devilish grin on his face most of the time.

“Do you ever think of reaching out to your biological mother?” She asked.

James shook his head. “No. Even if George would allow me, it’d be out of the question. She had to pick one of us and she chose her favorite originally.”

“James, I’m sure that’s not how it worked…”

“I had a mother, Belle. She read me to bed every night, she snuck me treats in my lessons and she kissed my wounds when I was hurt.” James straightened up. “We may not share the same DNA, but she was all the mother I needed. I don’t need to find the woman who gave me life.”

Belle stared at him for a minute. A part of her wanted to push, while the other understood. She wasn’t adopted but she had a mother that she loved more than anything in the world and not because they shared the same blood. If she found out tomorrow that Maurice and Collette hadn’t actually brought her into this world, it wouldn’t change how she felt about them. James’ mother was Serafina. She was all he needed.

“I think you’re right, you’re happy with your choice,” she finally said.

James nodded. “Thank you.”

“But David didn’t get to make his. He’s had to live in the dark for years, not knowing any of this. I’m not saying he should know anything, but doesn’t he deserve the truth?”

“What? That our biological father sold him for booze money? No, I think that’d hurt him even more.”

“And what about the mother that wanted him and didn’t get a say? I know you’ve tried to protect him all these years James. Maybe I don’t know everything about this, but I do know that he deserves to have all the facts like you do.”

James sighed, running his fingers through his blonde curls. He looked down at Belle. Their eyes interlocked and she got that warm, relaxing feeling in her stomach yet again. “I hate when you’re right.”

“You might as well get used to it,” she said cheekily, plucking an azalea off the bush and handing it to him. “Happens more than you might think.”

James rolled his eyes. Yet, that smile started to return. Why did he have to look at her like that?

Why did he have to make her fall for him?

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (One Week & 9 Days Before the Wedding)

David couldn’t get the bandit out of his mind. Sure, she had originally stolen his mother’s engagement ring but she had soon proven to be much more than that. She was a beautiful woman, her dark hair in a frizzy braid. Her emerald eyes brought out the stone in that ring. The second she had tried it on his jest, he knew he had never wanted her to take it off. She could fight harder than any other person he had ever met and that was sexy in its own right, forget her looks.

It was too bad that he was probably never going to see her again.

She was on his mind with every step he took.  As he listened to his father plan his wedding or whenever he tried to talk to Abigail (which was like pulling teeth), his mind floated to Snow White. He wondered if she was safe. He wondered what she was doing. Most of all, he wondered if she was thinking about him too.

“And then the Behemoth dragged his dagger through my skin, piercing me alive,” James said.

David looked up from his doodle. “Huh?”

“I knew you weren’t paying attention to what I was saying.”

“I totally was.”

“Considering I’ve never battled the Behemoth, I’d say not.” James leaned forward, staring at his brother’s sketch. “Whatchya drawing?”

David quickly attempted to cover it up with his forearm. “Nothing.”

James snatched the paper out from under him, scanning the paper. “She’s pretty, who is it?”

“No one in particular.”

“Davey, I know you. You got the artistic abilities of the two of us. This is definitely someone.” He studied the paper some more. “I’d say Abigail, but this girl has darker hair and is actually smiling.”

David snatched the paper back. “Father will hear you.”

“He’s out with Midas. Now, tell me.”

David sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. James wasn’t giving up and he wasn’t in the mood for a fight. “She’s a bandit I met in the woods the other day. She stole the ring I’m meant to give Abigail.” James cocked an eyebrow. “I got it back, but we ended up going on a bit journey together…she saved my life.”

James tilted his head. “You like this girl.”

David could feel his cheeks grow hot. “I do not.”

“You totally do.” James smirked. “Davey’s in love.”

“Shut up.” He averted his glance to the wooden table. “Even if I was, it doesn’t matter. In a little over a week, I’m to marry Abigail.”

“Yeah, a woman that can’t stand you.”

“Maybe in time…”

“David, stop. I know you. You always said you wanted to marry for love. Just like Mother taught us.”

“And how realistic is that? We’re royalty, James. Our lives are filled with expectations and arranged marriages.” David’s eyes flickered back down to the paper. He thought of Snow and the life they could have together. It made his heart ache. “Would I like to see what Snow and I could have together? Of course, but it’s just not realistic. I have to do this for Father. Just as he’s done everything for us.”

When David looked back up at his brother, he saw tears in his eyes. It wasn’t often James cried. Even when they were children and their mother died, he had been the strong one. David broke down and had destroyed their playroom. James was stoic, staring into space. He eventually gathered David into his arms and calmed him down. David always loved to joke that James was never a kid, that he had been born a mini-adult. In that moment, however, he seemed so vulnerable.

“David,” James whispered. “There’s something you should know.”

David’s blood boiled as he stormed away from his brother. He blocked out James calling after him, he didn’t want to hear him.

Everything he had known, everything he had ever thought had been a lie.

He slammed shut the heavy oak door to his room. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out the leather pouch that contained the ring. All his life he thought it belonged to his mother. Or Serafina.

“Shit,” he mumbled to himself.

Nothing made sense to him anymore. Serafina would always be his mother. She raised him for 5 years. She loved him. She doted on him. She taught him everything he loved about himself, while George had given him everything that he hated.

Yet this ring, the one he had always been told, belonged to the woman that had truly given him life. A woman until 15 minutes prior, he had no clue had existed. A woman that James and George had hidden from him for years. Ruth. She hadn’t wanted to give him up, but Robert-his biological father-had sold him. He was never meant to have this life. He was supposed to grow up a shepherd.

He was never meant to know his twin.

This was too much for him to handle.

“You’re back here early.”

David looked up to find Abigail standing in his room. She was dressed in a long coat, made of the finest pink silk. Her blonde hair was wrapped around her head and a hat that matched her coat sat atop her head. Abigail barely looked at him, let alone snuck into his room.

“What do you want?” His voice came out more bitter than he intended.

“I just wanted…” Her cheeks tinted pink. “I was trying to get some objects I could get to possibly leave this kingdom.”

David shook his head. “I suppose I shouldn’t even be surprised. You’ve made it clear you don’t want to be here.”

He stormed past her and over to his vanity. He grabbed a gold pocket watch along with some pearls that had once belonged to his mother, Serafina, whoever the hell she was. He didn’t know what to think anymore. God, his head hurt.’

He didn’t even love Abigail. He wasn’t sure why he was angry with her. Really, he wasn’t. He was upset with James and George, and it was coming out on her.

He needed a drink.

“I know what you must think of me,” Abigail said. “Poor little rich girl. Has everything she could ever want…why can’t I just marry you…”

“Up until today, I was willing to do this, give up my own happiness to make this merger happen!”

“Well I believe that while marriage requires give and take, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice being with who you truly love!”

David’s hands fell at his sides and he turned to face her. “So, we’re in agreement there, at the very least.”

Abigail cleared her throat. “I suppose so.”

“There’s someone else?”

“There was.” She bit her lip. “I was engaged to be married months before we got word of your father’s request for a merger. To a wonderful, handsome, kind man named Frederick.” She clutched her chest and shut her eyes.

David tilted his head, feeling some of his rage melting. “What happened?”

“You know my father; he turns anything he touches to gold.” Abigail’s eyes opened. A pain look overcame her pupils, a genuine frown encroaching her lips. “It was an accident. He didn’t have his gloves on…Frederick got too close…and the next thing we knew…he was a statute.”

David frowned. “Did you try true love’s kiss?”

“Until my lips bled.”

“Oh, Abigail…”

“I’ve looked into every spell, tried everything I could…but nothing worked. My father supported most of it, until we got your father’s offer. He couldn’t turn it down. The merger was just too great.” She looked out the window. “But I can’t trade my happiness for these kingdoms.

David thought of his own adoptive father. Growing up in this kingdom had felt like a prison. George had been cruel, trying to force both men to become people they didn’t want. It gave James an awful reputation and made David afraid to cross George in any way. They had been beaten and bruised. Their childhoods ended the day Serafina died. Now David found out, his life was never meant to be that way. Robert didn’t sound much better, but he still would never know what could have been.

He couldn’t stick around and continue living a lie.

“Maybe we could help each other,” David said.

Abigail looked back at him. “How?”

“I’ve discovered some stuff about myself that I need to look into. There’s also someone out there that I need to find.”

She studied his face. “A true love?”

David’s lips tugged up partially. “She just may be.” He took a step forward. “I think I have a way that we can save Frederick. We can leave tonight. Do you trust me?”

Abigail looked at him for a minute, before nodding. “I do. But do you really think you can leave all of this behind?”

David’s eyes scanned the rich red and gold room, the canopy bed. He thought of the sword practices, the nights he cried himself to sleep. He would miss his brother, but right now he certainly couldn’t be around him.

“It’s been a long time coming.”

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (October 28^th, 2011)

James attempted to peek through the newspaper that covered the windows but could only see the stories splashed across the pages, rather than the contents inside. He didn’t quite understand why the library had been locked up for so many years, but it bothered him to no end. He loved books. He could spend his lunch break, his evenings alone and the weekends getting lost in numerous adventures. From Jane Austen to George Orwell to Mary Shelley, he was never far from a novel. However, he was limited to the ones he had in his personal collection and what he could order off the internet. The mail system worked strangely in their little hamlet and it took forever to get anything in. If there was a library, at the very least it would be easier to borrow a huge stack and return them for more.

The last time he asked Regina Mills about it, she said that there wasn’t anyone interested in running the place. According to her, the last librarian had died long before he was born and no one else had been interested in the job. It was such a shame too. He knew he wasn’t the only one that longed for a library. His eyes glanced towards Henry, the mayor’s son. The young boy was looking longingly at the building as well. A large leather-bound book was tucked under his right arm and he had a frown on his face. His head tilted up towards the clock expectantly. James looked up towards it as well, but couldn’t tell what was wrong. Everyone had been abuzz about the clock being fixed, but it didn’t seem like Henry was happy about it.

Before James could move to say anything to Henry, the latter took off in the direction of a yellow Volkswagen bug. James shook his head. He had heard all about their town’s newcomer and the trouble she had been causing the mayor. On the one hand, he understood the appeal of wanting to get the child you gave up. On the other, Regina never lost. Even his own father was careful around her. Emma Swan had no clue what she was up against.

Then again, if she was this determined, maybe Regina didn’t know what she had coming either.

James turned to head back home; he had a long walk ahead of him. As he was doing so, he found himself face to face with Lacey. She was out of her waitress uniform and wearing a black sports bra along with matching leggings. Her auburn hair had been pulled back in a ponytail, showing off her sharp facial features. God, she was so beautiful. James had been in relationships before, but they never lasted very long. Albert made sure of that. No one was ever good enough or even if they were, Albert found something wrong with James. Sometimes he’d pick women for his son, only to say that he had changed his mind. As a result, James found himself a stuttering mess most of the time. He knew that there was no way Albert would ever approve of Lacey French. Yet, he also didn’t care.

“We just seem to be running into each other everywhere,” he managed to give her a nervous smile.

Lacey shrugged, jogging in place. Her ponytail bounced along with the rest of her body. “I guess so.”

James stuffed his hands into his pockets. “You headed to work?”

“No…just on a run.”

He could’ve smacked himself. Why would she go to work like that? “Of course, right…”

“Look…I’m sorry about the other day. Just please don’t tell your dad, the last thing I need is Albert Spencer up my ass again.”

James’ brows furrowed. “Why are you sorry? And why would I tell my dad?”

Lacey frowned as the jogging slowly came to a halt. “I was a jerk to you. And I mean, your dad is one of the biggest assholes in Storybrooke…”

“So, you thought I’d just rat you out.” James bit his lip. “Not that I actually wanted to talk to you or anything.”

“Well, I mean…yeah.”

James ducked his head. Of course. A pretty girl like Lacey and all she could think about was his scary father. God, why did Albert have to ruin everything for him?

“I didn’t plan on saying anything to my dad. I didn’t even care how you talked to me, I thought it was funny. I thought…” He trailed off, not wanting to embarrass himself further. “You know what? Never mind, it doesn’t matter.”

He started to walk away, ignoring the burning embarrassment in his stomach. James only made it halfway down the block when he heard Lacey calling for him. When he turned around, she was jogging his way.

“I guess I’m an idiot. I tend to see myself and not much else,” she admitted. “It’s not a great flaw.”

“You’re not the only one in the world with it.”

“Still something I should probably work on.” She rubbed her forearm. “Look, I feel like I owe you a drink.”

“Oh, you don’t have to…”

“James.” Lacey gave him a Look. “A girl like me is offering to take you to the Rabbit Hole and buy you alcohol. Think about if you wanna turn that down.”

James didn’t have to think twice. He offered her his sweatshirt since they were going to be heading into an establishment which made her do the cute head tilt. Ultimately, she accepted it, though she left it unzipped.

“It is just the Rabbit Hole, after all,” she said.

James had never been inside the bar in question. The last time he even had a drop of alcohol was to celebrate getting his undergrad and that was just a bit of champagne. The minute he stepped into the place; he knew it was different. It reeked of sweat, beer and nuts. AC/DC blared over the jukebox. The place was crowded with people. Some were around the tables, most settled by the pool tables. James was definitely the most overdressed of the bunch. The girls wore mini-skirts and tank tops, while the guys were in jeans. He had been walking home from work and was still in a burgundy sweater, corduroy pants and his dockers. As a waiter bumped into him, he worried about his glasses breaking.

God, you are such a dweeb.

There was that voice again. Where did it come from?

Lacey lead him over to the bar. “What do you drink?” She asked, finding them two stools.

“I um, I don’t.”

She gave him a weird look. “You’re kidding.”

The tips of his ears turned pink. “I mean…I’m just not a bar guy. My brother and I had a six pack on our 21^st?”

Lacey let out an intoxicating, adorable, vibrant laugh that absorbed James’ soul. “That is precious,” she said. “We’ll start you off easy.”

A guy dressed in a leather jacket with messy brown hair approached them from the other side of the bar. “Lacey,” he smirked at her. “The usual?”

“You know me so well, Keith,” she said. “And for my new friend, a rum and coke.”

Keith glanced in James’ direction and frowned. “Alrighty then,” he mumbled, before walking away.

James felt even more out of place. Keith was clearly Lacey’s type. What was he doing here? Was this some kind of sick joke? Maybe he should think up an excuse and leave…

“So, you were stalking the library,” Lacey interrupted his thoughts. “You like books or something?”

James blinked a few times. “Oh, um…yeah. I love them a lot actually. My minor was English Literature.”

“A college man.” Lacey let out a low whistle. “Very nice. Who’s your favorite author?”

“Probably Mary Shelley. Frankenstein is just one of the best books of that era. The responsibility of the doctor, the monster attempting to fight his nature but ultimately failing, the romances in the book too and the parental dynamics…” He trailed off with a shrug. “Sorry, I probably sound like a nerd right now.”

Lacey shook her head. “Nah, I think it’s cool you’re so passionate about it. I used to love reading when I was younger. My mother and I had a book club for a bit. Well, I don’t even know if you could call it that. We’d give each other book recommendations and then talk about them.”

James watched as a haunting look overtook Lacey’s eyes. It was gone as quickly as it appeared, but he had never seen her so serious. Keith placed the drinks down and she quickly took a sip of her Jack Daniels.

“Anyway, I don’t have much time for reading now but I probably get like you do about books, when music is involved.”

James tilted his head. “Oh really?” He picked up his own drink and took a big sip. The rum burned his throat and he nearly choked on it. Lacey smirked a bit.

“You okay there?”

“Yeah, yeah,” he set the drink back down and plucked out the cherry instead. “Guess I’m just not as good as you are with the liquor.”

“Takes years of practice and an alcoholic father, trust me.”

“Your dad is…”

“Moe French. He owns the flower shop.”

“Game of Thorns, I always loved the name.”

“I picked it. He wanted to call it “Rosie’s” or something stupid like that. We don’t even know a Rose” She rolled her eyes. “Told him people would be more attracted to a pop culture reference.”

“It was definitely the better choice.”

“Anyway, yeah, music. I have actual vinyls. My mom left me her record player.”

James grinned. “Seriously? I haven’t seen one of those in ages.”

“You know there’s this great record shop on Third, Dante’s. I’d probably spend all my check from Granny’s there if I could.” She took another swig of her drink. “I found a signed copy of Surrealistic Pillow that I’ve been saving up for, for months.”

“That’s…”

Lacey’s eyes nearly popped out of her head. “White Rabbit.” He must have still looked confused, because she grabbed hold of his hands and shook them. “Jefferson Airplane, they pioneered psychedelic rock.”

“Oh…”

“You don’t know what that means, do you?”

“Do you know what iambic petameter is?” Lacey’s mouth formed a thin line. “Then we both have something to teach the other.”

Lacey giggled. “I guess we do.”

James felt something buzzing in his pocket and reluctantly pulled his hand away from Lacey. He fumbled around for a bit before finding his phone. His father’s name lit up the screen, causing a lump to build. He slid the green bar across and held it to his ear.

“Hey Dad,” he tried to be heard above the noise of the bar without shouting. “What’s up?”

“What’s up?” Albert repeated incredulously. “Where are you?”

“Just uh…with a friend.” Lacey gave him a puzzled look. “I’m gonna be home a bit late tonight…”

“You need to get to the hospital. Something’s happened.”

James could feel his heart beat faster. “Is David okay? Did he have another scare?”

“No, he’s awake.”

James blinked several times before the news registered. “I…I’ll be right there.”

He hung up the phone before his dad could say anything else and then stared at the lock screen. It was a picture of him and David before everything went wrong. They had dinner after the latter left Kathryn. He was happy. Everything was going well. Who would’ve guessed days later, his brother would be found unconscious in the woods?

“Is everything okay?” Lacey asked.

James looked up, catching her appearance of genuine concern. “That was my um…my dad. My twin…he woke up from his coma.”

“Holy shit.”

“I…I have to call a taxi to get to the hospital…I um…I don’t have a car.”

Lacey tilted her head. “Your dad is Albert Spencer and you don’t have a car?”

“He doesn’t want me to have one.”

She stared at him for a moment. “Okay, I’d say we’d take mine but I jogged here. We can just borrow Ruby’s Camaro.”

“Lacey…”

“I only had half of one drink. I’m fine to drive, and Ruby and I borrow each other’s stuff all the time.”

“You don’t have to do this.”

“I know I don’t. I’m still going to.”

James and Lacey raced into the coma ward, both nearly out of breath. He lead her into David’s room and came to a pause in the doorway. His brother sat up in bed, the tubes still in his nose. David’s blue eyes were open wide and he was looking around at everyone. Albert stood off to one side, looking disappointed. Mary Margaret, the schoolteacher, was still in the corner. Emma was with her. He didn’t quite understand that either.

“David,” he said, softly.

David looked in his direction and a small smile came over his face. “Hi,” he whispered.

“It’s about time you showed up,” Albert said, gruffly. He stormed over to his son. “What took you so long?”

James immediately ducked his head. “I’m sorry, there was a lot of traffic on Main Street…”

“It’s not as if it matters,” Emma cut in. “It took us time to get him back.”

“Get him back?”

“Your idiot brother woke up from his coma and decided that was the perfect time to take an evening stroll.” Albert threw his hands in the air. “I got really lucky with my sons; I tell you that much.”

“Oh yes, they were far blessed to be given you,” Lacey mumbled.

Everyone in the room turned to the woman who wore James’ sweatshirt. Albert looked between her and his son, his eyes narrowing.

“And you are?”

“Lacey French.” She took a step forward. Her chin jutted outwards. “Your son and I were hanging out when he got the call, and I gave him a ride.”

“Right, Miss French.” Albert looked her up and down. “I thank you for getting James here, but this really is a family matter.” He looked back at Mary Margaret and Emma too, as if to communicate the same message. “Surely, the three of you understand.”

Mary Margaret looked hesitant but nodded. She walked out of the room with Emma following behind her. Sheriff Hubert was waiting not far out the door to ask them a few questions, in no doubt about David’s disappearance. Lacey stood firm, her eyes on Albert for a few moments. Finally, she turned to James and began to shrug off his sweatshirt. He held up a hand to stop her.

“You can keep it,” he whispered. “It’s chilly out.”

Lacey nodded. “I’ll see you at the diner tomorrow. We’ll make sure to have your order ready.”

Sparing Albert one last glare, she left the ward. David and James were left with their disapproving father who stared at the eldest twin. James simply moved closer to his brother and ran his fingers through his hair, mumbling questions to him about him waking up, where he had gone, etc. Even so, he wasn’t stupid.

Albert wasn’t done with the topic of Lacey French.

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (One Week & 5 Days Before the Wedding)

David had been gone for four days and James knew his brother had no plans of coming back. He hadn’t packed much and had originally left a note saying that he and Abigail had decided to go pick up some linens for the wedding. However, James had found the alternative note. The one that they weren’t meant to discover until the eve of the wedding when George would no doubt be tearing the castle apart to find why exactly the younger twin had taken off. James knew his brother well. He also had gotten the vibe that Abigail wasn’t happy with the wedding either. There was no way they would just head off together to pick up linens, and it certainly wouldn’t take more than a couple of days.

The note had been stuffed in David’s journal. James didn’t read the other pages, he just flipped for the loose one. There it explained everything. David had met a beautiful bandit (former princess) on one of his rides and he had fallen in love with her. Abigail was truly miserable and her former fiancé was in trouble. Together, the two planned to get exactly what they wanted. They wouldn’t be back. George couldn’t force David to be what he wanted anymore. After all, he was never destined to have this life to begin with.

James felt a mixture of things when he read the note. He was happy for his brother. David always said he wanted to marry for love and as much as he tried to make things work, everyone knew that Abigail wasn’t that. If this bandit would make him happy, then that was okay. Yet, he couldn’t deal with the fact that he would never see him again. He loved his brother. They were close as could be and had been through everything together. It wasn’t like David to do something without James. A part of James wondered why David hadn’t gone to him for help, but then he realized…James had hid the secret of their biological mother for many years.

George couldn’t find the letter. At least not for the time being. It would put far too many people in danger. Instead, he penned another and forged his brother’s handwriting. Masking himself as David, he said that he and Abigail had decided to stay in the village where they found the linens a bit longer. They promised to be back in time for the wedding, but they just wanted to take a little vacation. George and Midas accepted the note. The latter seemed happy that his daughter was accepting the marriage. George, on the other hand, just seemed happy that Midas was.

“You do realize that doesn’t give us much time,” Belle said that night when he reported what he had done. “When they don’t come back for the wedding, George and Midas will be furious.”

James ran his fingers through her coarse locks. “I know. I don’t want to drag them back here just to be unhappy, but if I knew where they were, it’d be easier to game plan.”

“The note didn’t say where they were headed?” James shook his head. “That doesn’t give us much to go on.”

“You keep saying us.”

“You’re my fiancé.” Belle laced her smaller fingers through his larger ones. “We’re in this together. No matter what.”

A small smile came over his face. “I’m so used to handling things alone.”

“Well not anymore.”

James’ heart fluttered. He looked down at her deep blue eyes. God, why did she have to be so damn beautiful? He tried to will himself away, but he couldn’t. It seemed that she couldn’t either. Their fingers stayed interlocked, their faces mere inches away from one another. James knew the rules. Neither were supposed to have romantic contact until their wedding day and yet…

His lips brushed against hers. It started off as just one, soft kiss, unlike any other he had delivered. Then, she kissed him back. She tasted like the berries she had eaten just moments before this meeting and soon, he could smell her sweet perfume as she wrapped her arms around his neck. He pulled her closer, his own arms falling around her waist like pieces of a puzzle. They were meant to be there all along. Her tongue slipped in and wrapped around his own, catching him off guard. The shy, bookish girl he had met wasn’t there in that moment. This was the fierce woman who had threatened to bash his father over the head with “Her Handsome Hero”.

They had to pull apart for air and James cursed himself for needing oxygen. Her lipstick was smudged, cheeks pink. He could feel his own face warm. God, he hadn’t felt like this since he was a teenage boy. How did she have this spell over him? It was like magic, but the good kind. He had read about it in books. Boy meets girl, girl smiles at boy…and he loses his mind for her.

Their hands were both enclosed with each other, their bodies still so close together. “You could have your brother tracked,” she suggested. It took James a moment to process her words. It was as if they hadn’t just kissed, as if he couldn’t still feel her tongue on his own. “By one of the knights.”

James slowly took in what she was saying. “They’d just tell my father.”

“There’s one that used to be in King Arthur’s court before he was disgraced.”

His brows furrowed and she giggled, which only made him feel hotter. “W…why?”

“He fell in love with King Arthur’s wife, and she him. Once Arthur found out, he was furious. He kicked him out and it took him ages to find a new court. I think George only took him on because he knows Lancelot is willing to break a few rules.”

“Which you think he’d do for me?”

Belle nodded. “I’ve spoken to him a few times. He’s not fond of your father, but he spoke highly of your brother. For the right price, I think he’d be able to track down David and Abigail. Once he did, we can go to them and see what they’re up to. Then we can plan what to tell your father and the other king.”

James tilted his head, then let out a small laugh. “Perhaps I should kiss you more often, it seems to give you good ideas.”

Belle’s eyes twinkled. “Well, I wouldn’t be opposed.”

James took that as an offer to lean in and give her another.

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (October 31^st, 2011)

Dante’s on Third was unlike any place James had ever been. There were vinyls carefully filed away down several rows. Rock songs-at least James assumed they were rock-played on the overhead stereo. Shag zebra wallpaper gave it a very 70s vibes in a town that hadn’t seemed to escape the 80s. The whole shop smelt so deeply of weed, he wondered if he was going to get a second hand high. There really was no wonder why Lacey loved this place.

It had been three days since David woke up from his coma and he was doing a bit better. He couldn’t remember why he had decided to take a walk through the woods straight after. Even Dr. Whale said it couldn’t be explained. At the end of the day, all that could be done was work up his strength. David still had no memory of the night he was found, just that he left work and was heading home. Everything after that was a supposed blur. Dr. Whale said despite all of that, it was a miracle that he had no long-lasting injuries. He didn’t think David would be in the hospital long and soon, he could return to his everyday life.

Not that David had much of a life left. After he left Kathryn, David had started renting out an apartment but Albert let it lapse once he entered his coma. There had been his job as sheriff of the town, but Graham had replaced him when it looked like he wasn’t coming out of it. James knew Albert was thrilled. David had finally escaped his clutches years ago and now it looked like he was going to be forced to return to it. If James didn’t know any better, he’d almost wonder if his dad had put his brother in the coma himself.

Stop having those thoughts, they’re only going to get you in trouble.

“Can I help you?”

James was pulled out of his bubble by a smooth voice. He looked up at a man taller than him, with a long curly beard and even longer hair. He wore a blue tunic and khaki pants. He gave James an easy smile.

“I’ve never seen you around here before,” he said. “Welcome to Dante’s. I’m John, the caretaker of these fine records. How may I assist you?”

James couldn’t help but relax around John. He was probably one of the few people in town that wouldn’t have a thing to do with his father and therefore wouldn’t be scared of him. James knew he’d help him out.

 “I’m James.” He fumbled through his pocket and pulled out the scrap of paper. “I’m looking for a signed copy of Surrealistic Pillow.”

John arched an eyebrow. “I normally would love to allow you to purchase that, but I have a lovely young lady I’ve promised it to.”

“I know, I’m getting it as a gift for her. As a thank you.” John didn’t look convinced. “Lacey French, short, angsty. She really saved my butt and I want to thank her. To be honest, I don’t know much about this stuff, but it means the world to her.”

John’s smile slowly returned and he went down the second aisle. He flipped through a few of the albums before returning with the pink and black one. The rich white ink of the different artists was scrawled across the front. James grinned and checked the price before handing over the cash to John.

“Lacey’s a special girl,” John said as he wrapped it up in a brown paper bag. “She comes in here often. Can’t spend much, but has a great taste in music. Probably one of the few that has an original vinyl player. Not one of those newer ones.”

James nodded. “She told me.”

“I’d learn about Jefferson’s Airplane if I were you, music in general.” He handed over the bag along with his change. “If you plan on hanging around that is.”

“I will,” James replied without thinking.

He knew it was a dangerous game. Albert had been furious after Lacey left.

“How could you be seen with a girl of her reputation? Don’t you know what I’ve done to make you into the man you are?”

Yet, there James was. He was buying a record for a girl of “Lacey’s reputation”, whatever that even meant. She was funny, sarcastic and she had helped in a moment that no one else had-including Albert. No matter what anyone else said, he wanted to get to know more about her.

James took the record down to Main Street and into Granny’s Diner. Decorated for Halloween, with fake cobwebs and skeleton stickers along with a few jack-o-lanterns, it was one of the many places in town ready for the holiday. That particular day, Lacey stood on register, her hair pulled back in a ponytail. Much like Ruby, she tied her uniform shirt under her chest and chose to wear a shorter skirt to show off her shorter legs. For the holiday, she had chosen to wear a pair of devil horns atop her head and a matching tail on the back of her skirt. James grinned. He couldn’t remember the last time he had dressed up. Albert called it childish, so no one in the office ever did. The only signs of fall in the office was the plastic cornucopia on another secretary’s desk.

Another waitress dressed like a bumblebee attempted to seat him, but James politely declined and headed for the register. Lacey’s face lit up when she saw him.

“Hey you,” she said. “How’s David?”

“Doing better. Dr. Whale seems to think he won’t have to spend much longer in the hospital.”

“That’s great news.” She checked the clock on the wall. “My shift’s done. Let me go clock out and we can go do something fun for the holiday. I promise we don’t have to go back to the Rabbit Hole if you don’t want to.”

James’ cheeks tinted. Had it been that obvious how uncomfortable he had been there?

“No, I’d be willing to give it another go, if you wanted.”

“We’ll talk in a minute. Just let me go clock out.”

She hopped towards the back. When she returned, she had her black leather jacket and purse. Lacey took hold of James’ arm and they headed out onto the street. She lead him to her cherry red Jaguar, throwing her stuff into the back. He kept a tight hold onto his bag as he slid into the passenger seat.

“What’s in the mystery bag?” She asked, shutting the driver’s side door.

“It’s um for you.”

Lacey cocked a tweezed eyebrow. “For me?”

“You got me to David far quicker than any cab would’ve and I just…wanted to do something…”

He fumbled the brown paper bag into her hands. She curiously opened it, her blue eyes peeking inside. Her cherry red lipstick coated lips formed an o shape as she looked from the bag back up to him.

“James,” she whispered.

“It’s the right one, isn’t it? John said…

“No, no, it is. It’s just…you didn’t have to do this.”

“I wanted to. Like I said, you helped me out.”

“I just gave you a ride.”

James chewed on his bottom lip. “David and I were really close as kids. We did everything together. I always joked that even though I came out first, he was the older twin. Then when we became adults, we grew apart. He stood up to our father and I just…never could. We didn’t stop talking but it got harder to hang out and see each other and then one day…he was just in a coma. I visited him every day, walked to that hospital, rain, snow or shine.”

Lacey frowned, her hand crumpling around the bag.

“I worried I’d never get another chance to have a better relationship with him…and then I got that call the other night….when I was with you.” He smiled at her. “You took me and you helped me through it. You stood up to my father of all people. If I hadn’t been there right away when David woke up, who knows if we would’ve been able to talk, he wouldn’t have known I cared.”

James let out a deep breath, realizing that he was rambling.

“So no, Lacey. You didn’t just drive me to the hospital.” He shrugged. “You gave me my relationship with my brother back.”

Lacey blinked. “Wow. So, this record…it says all that?”

James nodded. “Yeah.” He moved it from her hands and placed it behind the stick shift. His fingers laced through hers. “Look, Lacey, I don’t know what this is. I know we just met…but I can’t stop thinking about you.”

Lacey nodded. “If I’m being honest…I can’t you, either.”

“My father…he ruins everything that brings me joy. And I don’t want you to think I’m keeping you a secret because I’m ashamed of you. I’m not. I just…”

Lacey brought a finger to his lips. “I get it. I have a dick for a dad too.” James chuckled behind her finger. “We can figure this out together before we can take it public.”

“Teaching each other about music and books?”

She nodded. “Sounds like a plan.”

Lacey kissed his cheek. He could feel that it left behind some lipstick but he didn’t care.

“So,” she said. “Rabbit Hole or somewhere else?”

“Is your dad home?”

Lacey shook her head. “Tonight, he’s at Aesop’s. He prefers to watch the game there and gamble while he gets drunk.”

“Why don’t we go there and listen to your new record. You can teach me about music tonight, then tomorrow, I’ll teach you about music.”

Lacey smiled. “Sounds like a great idea.”

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (One Week Before the Wedding)

It had taken Lancelot some time to track Abigail and David down, but he finally had. According to him, they weren’t even together anymore. They had discovered a cure for Abigail’s fiancé. That had lead to she and Frederick taking off together. They planned on telling Midas just as soon as David felt he was safe from George. Midas had never disapproved of Frederick, turning him to gold had been a grand mistake. In the meantime, however, they wanted to protect David who was the main reason they could still be together.

According to Lancelot, Abigail said that David was assisting Snow with her own family drama. He wasn’t quite sure what it was, but the two were in Queen Regina’s kingdom. James had heard stories of the evil queen and knew that his twin could be in grave danger. If he was going to insist on fighting, he couldn’t do it alone.

“We’ll go together,” Belle told him.

“Belle…”

“If you honestly think I’m about to let my fiancé enter the lion’s den alone, then you don’t know me.”

He smiled at her, giving her a brief kiss. Ever since that first one, they couldn’t keep their hands off of one another. It was hard to do with George and Maurice lurking so often, but they did their best. James tried not to think about how two nights after their first kiss, Belle snuck into his chambers to discuss David. One thing lead to another and they were soon kissing once again.

Her lips had fell upon his neck, sucking until she left behind a mark claiming him to be hers. It would be hell to cover up, but he didn’t complain at all. He left behind some of the same on her thighs and stomach, eyeing his handywork beneath the candlelight. Her dress was soon on the floor, followed by the corset that held up her cleavage. She was exposed to him, her luxurious curves and all.

“You hide behind those dresses,” he whispered into her ear, nibbling onto it.

“What’s behind your tunics?”

She tugged at the strings behind his tunic, allowing it to be released. His muscles from years of knight training were bare, as were the scars from rough teachers and his father. Belle frowned as she traced each one, causing James to tense up a bit. She gently laid a kiss to them and his muscles relaxed. She looked up at him with her kind, blue eyes.

“You’re more than just a dragon slayer,” she whispered. “You’re not just a knight.”

She pushed him back onto the bed, bracing his shoulders and brushing his temple with a kiss.

“You are my handsome, sexy, fiancé who loves books, you care about your brother…” She moved her lips down to his own. “And me.”

“You mean the world to me,” he muttered, wrapping his arms around her bare waist.

“Let me show you how much I love you.”

She removed his leather pants, exposing his naked parts below. Belle kissed every inch of his body, almost as if she was trying to melt away the scars and the bruises left behind from a rough childhood. When she reached his waist, she stroked his cock and giggled at how hard it got by just the motion alone.

“Playboy prince, easy to tease.”

He groaned at that notion and she resumed with the kissing, moving down the member until she reached the head. Her mouth moved around his cock, her sweet tongue bathing it in the process. James clenched onto her hair, letting out tiny moans of delight. He was growing harder by the minute, feeling himself at precum.

“I want to come inside of you, Princess.” He had never referred to another girl by their title in bed. Normally, they saved that for him.

“Do you now?”

“Please.”

“Mmm…that can be arranged.”

The two were soon connected and it didn’t take long for him to come. Maybe it was the fact that he hadn’t been with a woman since Jack or that Belle was the sexiest woman he had ever seen. He wasn’t sure. All he did know, was that she made everything worth the wait.

As James sat next to Belle in the carriage, his hand floated over her own. They were going to help his brother one way or another. As far as George knew, they were just out there joining David and Abigail on their pre-wedding vacation. He was out there to help his brother.

The carriage came to a sudden stop. James waited for Lancelot to announce why, but he was quiet. He got out from the cart and found Lancelot frozen in place with a blue glow around him, A short, scaly man stood before the cart. James reached to his side and withdrew his sword.

“Undo your spell on my driver, beast,” James snarled.

The man let out a high pitch giggle. “Oh, James.  You’ve grown up so much since I saw you at birth.”

James’ eyebrows furrowed for a moment until it dawned on him. He had heard of the stories. This was the one and only Rumpelstiltskin. “What are you doing here?”

“I’ve come to help you.”

“Your magic always comes with a price.”

“Oh, so you’re smarter than you appear.” Rumpelstiltskin took a step forward. “Your brother has escaped and his true love wants to defeat her step-mother. Quite a conundrum.”

James tilted his head. “What do you care?”

“Don’t worry about what I care.”

Belle stepped off the carriage and James pulled her beside him out of protection. She glared at the imp before them, which only made Rumpelstiltskin giggle again.

“Fate works in mysterious ways,” he mused.

“What do you want from my fiancé?” Belle asked.

“I’m only here to help. You see, I want to defeat the Evil Queen and George as much as David and that Snow White do.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a long silver whistle. “When you reach your brother, blow this.”

James hesitantly accepted it with his free hand, the other keeping the sword out. “Why?”

“You’ll see. They’ll help you with Regina.”

Rumpelstiltskin moved to wave a hand at Lancelot, but then stopped.

“Congratulations by the way.”

“About?”

“The baby.”

Belle laughed. “I’m not pregnant.”

“Yes, dearie. You are.”

Belle looked down at her flat stomach, then back up to James. Both of their eyes were open wide. It had only been one time, not even a week ago yet. Could magic already tell? How was this happening?

Storybrooke, Maine (November 1^st, 2011)

The orphanage was quiet, as it normally was at night. No one dared to upset Mother Superior. She could make your time at Sisters of Saint Meissa’s a living hell or at least somewhat decent. That went for the orphans that slept in the beds and the nuns that worked there.

Astrid made her way down the rows, making sure each child was falling fast asleep. She couldn’t remember why she had chosen to be a nun. She often dreamed of adventure, finding love and even adopting a few children of her own. Yet, she had taken a vow to the church and that was more important. To her, the orphans were her children. She and the rest of the nuns protected them the best they could from Mother Superior’s wrath.

As she reached the final bed in the home, she found Gideon awake, staring at the same book he often looked at. The young boy had light brown hair and the biggest hazel brown eyes anyone had ever seen. Astrid remembered the stories of him. He had been dropped at the orphanage as a baby. He was adorable, healthy and well-spoken. Yet, for some reason, with each passing adoption day, he was looked over. Most of the children in the home were. At 3-years-old, she knew Gideon wanted what most of the children at Saint Meissa’s wanted: a family.

Astrid sat at the edge of Gideon’s bed, giving him a soft smile. “It’s getting late, Gid,” she whispered. “You should go to sleep.”

Gideon tilted his head up to her. “Read me a story?”

He held up the book: Her Handsome Hero. Gideon had been found with two things when he was abandoned: a baby blanket with his name on it and this book. He clung to both things as most children did with the few possessions they had left. Astrid knew Mother Superior would be upset if she read him a story so late, but she turned on the tiny lamp by his bedside and flipped open the cover. The title page always had the same beautiful cursive:

To my son Gideon,

Remember to be strong and that I will always love you.

Mama

Astrid read that part out loud as usual, watching Gideon’s hazel eyes light up.

“My mama’s out there,” he announced, proudly. “And she’s going to come back for me some day.”

Astrid ran her fingers through his curls. “I hope for your sake that’s true, Gid. Now, let’s read the story.”

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (December 1^st, 2011)

They listen to music in their cars or when they’re confined to Lacey’s bedroom. They sneak glances as he walks with his dad to the town hall meetings and she’s on her way to read her newest book recommendation from her. What’s more than that, are their text conversations with one another.

You owe me dinner, Chinese. That’s what she sent him after she managed to get through The Tempest. They ate it on the beach, wearing thick jackets and listening to the waves crash in. They talked about everything over those weeks, getting to know each other as well as they knew themselves. James and Lacey spoke about their mothers who were taken from them too soon. Lacey never forgot to ask him how David is doing.

The answer didn’t change much. He was released from the hospital, but didn’t return to Albert. He found an apartment and job quickly, thanks to the help of Mary Margaret and Emma. After Sheriff Graham’s sudden death, Emma took his spot but still required a deputy. So, she hired David onto help. The three had been spotted spending a lot of time together. Sometimes Henry would join them. James was happy for his brother, but wondered what it meant for him. David was never lucky in love, no matter how nice the woman was. And he didn’t quite get the connection that his twin and Mary Margaret felt to Emma. She was Mary Margaret’s roommate and they were her only friends. People wondered if the new sheriff in town was actually staying for good.

For a solid month, James snuck around with Lacey. From their music dates to their mini-book club, he knew it was dangerous how much he was falling for her. He couldn’t offer her much. At the end of the day, he returned to the suffocating confines of his dad’s home and office. James was under Albert’s thumb, but he desperately wanted to find a way out.

Lacey texted him again one afternoon as he finished up at the office.

Wanna see a movie?

A smile spread across James’ face as he immeaditely responded “Yes”. He asked her to pick him up in their usual spot, a place Albert would never look for him. Normally when he left the office, he’d check in with his father and explain his plans for the night (i.e, lie). That evening, he was too tired and just gathered up his stuff before walking to the park. It was 20 minutes from the office, but James was used to walking by that point. He had his driver’s license but his father kept such a tight hold on his finances, there was no way he’d be able to afford a car on his salary.

Lacey’s Jag was in front of the park not long after he arrived. James climbed into her car and gave her a smile.

“What do you want to see?” he asked.

“Well, since you’re making me read Shakespeare, there’s a showing of the classic 10 Things I Hate About You coming up soon.”

James chuckled. “Out of all the things we could see, that’s it for you?”

“I read it’s based on The Taming of the Shrew.”

“You know a Bard lover like me can’t pass that up.”

She drove them to the theater where James bought the tickets and Lacey insisted on getting the snacks. Nestled in a back row, they shared boxes of Cookie Dough bites and a cherry Slurpee. Lacey kept popping bits of popcorn into his mouth and James wondered if that was what it was like to have a girlfriend.

Can you stop being stupid? You’ve been hanging out for a month. She would’ve made a move by now.

As Kat Stratford delivered her iconic speech about hate and love, James thought of his father. How he hated that he loved him. That didn’t seem like a good relationship to have with one’s father but he didn’t know how else to get out of it. He strained his mind to remember something good, but his childhood was a blur of missed baseball games and A’s on his report card not being good enough. In a way, it made him angry. There was that part of him that always attempted to jump out and yell at his father. That was always quickly subdued by…well, he could never quite explain it.

The two walked hand in hand after the movie ended. James was silent as Lacey went on about Kat Stratford and whether or not she should have returned to Patrick Verona after everything. He listened as well as he could, but his mind was a fog.

“You alright?” she asked, breaking through to him, finally.  “You’ve been quiet since we got out.”

“Doesn’t it always go that you talk, I listen?” Lacey raised an eyebrow and he sighed. “Do you ever think about how weird things are around here?”

“You’re not going to go all Henry on me now? You know he’s convinced I’m Belle from Beauty and the Beast.” She snorted. “Can you imagine?”

James laughed a bit, shaking his head. “No, definitely not. It’s just, my entire life I feel like I’ve just been who my father wanted me to be.”

“You don’t have to be that, James.”

“The thing is, the past few…God I don’t even know how many years, I’ve had this voice in my head that tries to stand up to him but I can never let myself. And the more I’m around you…God, this is going to sound weird…”

Lacey only got somber. “It’s gotten louder?”

“I wasn’t saying it was a bad thing…”

“No, you don’t get it,” she interrupted. “The past few years I’ve had this feeling like something was wrong or missing. At first, I thought it was my mom dying but then I realized it was more. I thought I needed to get out of this town but never could. And then…”

She trailed off and James felt his pulse quicken. “Then?”

“Then I met you.” Lacey let out a deep breath. “It’s like I’m uncovering a piece of myself that I thought I lost. I want to read books again, I don’t want to spend every night at the Rabbit Hole. I…I actually think I could fall in love.”

Lacey moved her hand so their fingers were intertwined.

“I think maybe I am.”

James blinked several times. “Are you saying…”

“When I’m with you, things just make sense. I didn’t know this part of myself and now I don’t want to stop learning it.” She moved closer to him. “I don’t want to stop learning about you. You’re all I think about when I wake up in the morning. James, you barely leave my mind all day. And if you knew me, you’d know that’s not the kind of girl I am. I fuck a guy and then I move on. But with you, it’s real. With you, I want more than just that.”

Lacey swallowed and James put his free hand on her shoulder. Their eyes connected and for a moment, they didn’t remember that they were standing on a public street. They didn’t think about who they were supposed to be or what they wanted. Instead, James focused on her. From her baby blue eyes, to the curve of her chin. The way her bomber jacket was unzipped despite it being freezing and the Led Zeppelin sweater she wore under it. All of the reasons he liked her.

All of the reasons he loved her.

They had only been in each other’s lives for a month and a half. Yet to James, it felt like he had known her for years.

She kissed him first. They both knew it would always come to be like that. Her red lipstick smudged with his pale, nearly chapped lips. Their tongues intertwined and his arms slid around her waist to pull her closer. She stood on her tip toes and grasped to his neck for support.

He could have stood there forever.

If only the sun didn’t have to be replaced by rain.

“James!”

James would know the voice anywhere. He broke apart from Lacey and clamped his eyes shut. Her nails dug into his palm, a weight to the world.

“I have been looking everywhere from you! Have you not checked your phone?”

Wordlessly, James pulled his cell from his pocket. A missed call, then a text from Albert questioning his whereabouts. He had turned it off for the film, but he knew that wouldn’t be a good enough excuse for his father.

Finally, he found the bravery to face Albert. James was tall, just over six feet. Even so, Albert always seemed like a giant when he was angry.

“I’m sorry,” was all James could say.

“You’re going to be.” Albert gestured to his Cadillac. “Get in.”

“You don’t have to go, James,” Lacey said. Her voice was calm, yet her eyes were narrowed on her beau’s father. “You’re a grown man, you don’t owe him anything.”

Albert let out a shallow laugh. “Why don’t you go pick up your daddy from the floor of Aesop’s, little girl.”

“Hey!” James found the venom coming to his voice. Albert and Lacey looked at him in surprise. “You can’t talk to her that way.”

Albert raised a salt and pepper eyebrow. “I beg your pardon?” James knew what that meant. Shut up. Yet, that night, his inner voice came out.

“You can’t talk to her that way,” James’ voice became sturdier. “She’s a person. She deserves respect. You can’t just talk to people like they’re beneath you.”

Albert looked perturbed by his son’s sudden rebellion. “We can discuss this at home, James. Say goodbye to Lacey.”

“No.”

“Excuse me?”

“I said, no. I’m not going anywhere.”

A pregnant pause hung in the air. Lacey’s fingers were still intertwined with his own. Albert’s eyes were wide. James felt like he was going to throw up.

“James,” Albert managed to find some words. “You need to remember who you’re talking to.”

“Are you my boss or my father right now?”

“I’d say both.”

“Well, I quit one of those positions.”

Lacey gasped. If James wanted to take the words back, it was too late. Albert was paler than normal and James wondered if he was going to have a stroke.

“Think very carefully, son,” Albert’s voice grew darker. “I give you everything. A place to stay, an expense account. You only have a job because of me.”

“He doesn’t just need you,” Lacey spoke up. Both men looked at her. “There are other jobs he could get, ones where I’m sure they wouldn’t keep his actual checks from him.”

“You don’t know anything about this.”

“I know everything about it. And I know that if James needs a place to stay, he has me.”

James smiled. “Really?”

“Really. My dad would hate you staying with me, but I can help you get a room at the inn until you’re on your feet.”

“This is ridiculous,” Albert interrupted. “James, you are not leaving the job I gave you or our house.”

“James is a grown man. He can do whatever he wants.” Lacey squeezed his hand. “What do you want, James?”

James looked from Lacey to his father. He knew that whatever choice he made, he’d have to stick with it. There was no going back from this.

“I want to go with Lacey. I chose Lacey.”

Before his father could react, James and Lacey headed back to the Jaguar. He slid into the passenger seat while she got in the driver. There was a silence for a minute, before Lacey grabbed his face and kissed him passionately. James pulled apart a few minutes later, panting.

“I feel like I’m going to be sick,” he mumbled. “Not from the kiss…but…my dad…I just…”

“You just stood up to him, James.” Lacey tilted his chin up. “And I am so proud of you.”

“I don’t know what I’m going to do. He’s controlled my life for so long.”

“We’ll figure it out. Together.”

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (5 Days Before the Wedding)

James dismounts his horse upon entering the camp, carefully helping Belle down. He puts a hand over her stomach and she drops hers above his.

“I can’t be very far along,” she whispers. “I’m fine.”

“Still.” He stares at her with worry. “I…I can’t have anything happening to you to.”

Belle puts a hand on either side of his face, her blue eyes mirroring his. “We’re going to be okay. I promise.” She gently kisses him and he returns it for a moment. “Nothing bad is going to happen.”

And he wants to believe her. He wants to believe that it’s all smooth sailing from this point forward. That they’ll get married, have the baby, David will find his happiness…but nothing in his life has worked out that way. His mother died; his father nearly turned him evil. Now David isn’t even speaking with him and he’s faced with the overwhelming news of fatherhood.

James always knew he’d have to produce an heir. Being next in line to the throne, there was no escaping it. And yet, a part of him never really pictured being a dad. It wasn’t real. Once he met Belle, he somewhat could, but the full vison was still blurry. He wanted to get to know her better. He already loved her more than words could ever say. But could he be a good father? He had two and both had let him down in some capacity. Robert was a drunk that squandered all his money, selling David and James for the highest price. George loves him, he knows that in his own twisted way, his father has always loved him. And yet, that love isn’t enough. It doesn’t erase the abuse or the scars.

He thinks of his grandfather. Only one had ever been in James and David’s lives, Serafina’s parents passed not long after they were born. The twins had only ever met him a handful of times before his death when they were 8 and the memories were still engrained in his head. William was the one person that George feared in some capacity. Every time he entered the palace, George grew still. He stood emotionless, giving a firm handshake and answering in quiet “Yes sir”, “no sir.” William always had something to say about James’ love of books or David’s eye for art. He always made comments about how he didn’t expect great-grandchildren from them. They were destined to fail the kingdom in every conceivable way.

James wonders if he can manage to be a better father? Will he let this child down too? Is that just the way of the men in this family?

No, it can’t be. He has to do better by this child. He has to break the cycle.

And that starts by helping his brother.

Lancelot was able to tell them a few possible places that David would be. James told his father that he was heading off to help David with shopping for the wedding, Belle coming along. There was a look of doubt in George’s eyes, but he didn’t protest in front of Maurice. A few dead ends had led them to a werewolf camp not far out of the kingdom’s limits. A firepit sat in the middle, surrounded by tents. James’ hand goes to his holster, ready to draw his sword at any moment.

“Stay behind me,” he instructs Belle.

Belle snorts. “Yeah, right.”

She pushes past him, her hand on her own sword. A small smile tugs on his face, watching her head into the camp. She’s been the one saving him these past few weeks. James walks by her side, keeping them on equal footing. A tall woman with long dark locks steps in front of them. A tight red cape is tied to her body, covering a cream colored dress peppered with a wildflower design. She eyes James, tilting her head.

“Charming?” She asks in disbelief. Her wild green eyes glance in Belle’s direction. “That is not Snow.”

“It’s not and I’m definitely not charming,” James says. “I’m James. Looking for David.”

The woman does a double take before laughing. “Right. Charming mentioned something about a twin. I just didn’t realize you were identical.”

“Why do you keep calling him that?”

“He can’t exactly use his real name, not without his, or I guess your father, finding him.”

James slowly nods, a little confused. Belle speaks for them. “I’m Belle, by the way.”

“Red,” she shakes hands with her. “Charm…I mean, David and Snow are in their tent. They shouldn’t be up to anything scandalous, I think they learned after the dwarfs walked in on them last time.”

Dwarfs? James has so many questions but instead follows Red to a tent towards the middle of the circle. Red knocks on the cloth covering, clicking her tongue.

“Everyone decent?”

A feminine laugh echoes from inside. “We’ve learned to wait until the dwarfs sleep.” The rope in front sways as a short brunette steps out of the tent. James looks her up and down. Her hair is knotted in a braid and she’s wearing a deerskin suit instead of a ballgown, but he recognizes her as Princess Snow. Their paths occasionally crossed.

David climbs out next, in a pair of leather pants and a pale tunic, a few buttons opened. “Seriously, I don’t need an axe up my…” He trails off when his eyes meet his twin’s. “James.”

“This is your brother!” Snow smiles, throwing her arms around him. James stumbles a bit, slowly, returning it. “It’s so great to finally meet you. David’s told me so much about you.”

“It’s nice to see you again,” James manages to get out.

Snow pulls away from him, glancing over at David. She places a hand on his arm as they gaze at one another, almost like they’re talking with just their eyes. Finally, she breaks out of it and glances at Belle. “You’re James’ fiancé I presume? You must be thirsty from the journey. Come with me.”

James nods to let Belle know he’ll be alright. She disappears with Snow and Red. The brothers resume staring at one another before James breaks and pulls him into a tight hug. It takes a good minute before David returns it. James stays in his embrace for a good, long while, tightening it.

“You scared the shit out of me,” he murmurs. “I thought…I thought I had lost you like…” Serafina’s name hangs on the top of his tongue, unable to come off.

“I’m sorry,” David whispers.

James pulls away, biting his lip. “No, I’m sorry. I should’ve told you the truth a long time ago.”

David rubs the back of his neck. “It’s not like George ever would’ve let you. It put us both in danger. I just…I can’t imagine how lonely it was to keep that secret for 20 years.”

James ducks his head, willing the tears to stay back. He thinks of all the times he came close. When George screamed at them. Whenever there was pressure of becoming violent kings. All those sleepless nights where he imagined running away again to a farm where his biological mother lived…even though she’d probably turn him away. David was the one she wanted. She gave him away without a second thought.

Regaining composure, he looks back up at his brother. “I’m not important. What’s going on David?” He looks around. “What is this?”

“Snow was banished from her kingdom. Her step-mother hates her, I don’t know why. She wants her dead, has turned everyone against her. Until Red and the dwarfs, she didn’t have anyone.”

“And what does this have to do with you?”

“I have to help her, James.” His eyes fill with hope. “She deserves a happy ending.”

“One with you?”

David shrugs. “I love her.”

“You just met her!”

“You don’t get it. It’s not like with Abigail or the other women that George set me up with. It wasn’t love at first sight, but once I saw her with Ruth’s ring…I knew it. She’s the one.” He slowly smiles. “She’s tough, fierce, Heaven knows she doesn’t need me to fight for her. And yet…I can’t picture a life without her.”

James stares at his brother. He’s never seen him this way. There was the brief tryst with Kristoff, their stable boy, but that was always more about sex than anything else. The weight of his voice, the dreamy look in his eyes…his idiot brother is in love.

And he can’t blame him. He hasn’t even known Belle a month and he’d do anything for her. He’d die for her.

Still, James thinks of what he’s been taught about true love. It’s beautiful, amazing…and often, unrealistic. He’s gotten lucky to find it within his future bride, but royalty typically aren’t afforded the luxury of loving their spouse.

“Father is never going to approve. Even with Abigail out of the picture, Snow has been banished from her kingdom. She’s a disgraced Princess…”

“I don’t give a damn,” David interrupts, his face growing serious. “I’ve given everything for this kingdom and I’m done.” He throws his hands in the air. “You’re the next in line, anyhow.”

“But still…David…” Dread fills James’ stomach. “Father isn’t going to let you go easy. He’s not going to accept you living the life of a bandit.”

“The group has agreed to help protect me from him.”

“You haven’t thought this through…”

“No, James. I have. I have since I was a little kid, being forced to wield a sword.” He swallows, hard. “That’s not the life I want for myself, at least not under the constant eye of him. I don’t want to become George, with him being like Grandad, always watching me. I just want to be happy.”

James looks around the camp. In the distance, Red and Snow are talking with Belle, offering her something to eat. Some men on the shorter side are lugging firewood, others looking over a map. All of them are in peasant clothing, they don’t have much to their names.

“This,” James gestures around. “This makes you happy? There’s a chance that Snow won’t get her kingdom back.”

“And I don’t care. I’d live the rest of my life in a tent, if it meant I got to be with Snow. If it meant I was free.”

James keeps his eyes on Belle, thinking of their baby. What kind of life does he want for it, for their family? One with wealth and security, but with George constantly looking over his shoulder? Or one with risk, but happiness?

He takes a deep breath, turning back to his brother. “Belle and I need to get married. It will appease Father for the time being and we’ll try to get him off your back. Once that’s done, we’ll gather supplies and come back to help you.”

“James, you don’t have to do that…”

“David, we’ve done everything together. I’m not letting you do this alone. Besides, I want to prove to my future child that love, happiness…it’s all worth fighting for.”

David nods, then examines him curiously. “Child…are you…I mean…”

“It’s a long story, but you’re going to be an uncle.”

David beams, clapping him on the shoulder before pulling him back into a hug. For the first time he got the news, James finds some relief.

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (December 10^th, 2011)

Lacey removes her heels before carefully tiptoeing down the stairs. Her father should be sleeping off a six pack on the couch. She’s due to meet James at the inn to look at more apartment and job listings. The night he left his father, she convinced Granny to let him stay in the loft above the diner. It’s one room, without even a kitchen but it’s a place he can rest his head in between looking for a job and spending time with Lacey. A few days after he quit his job, James enlisted the help of David and Emma to break into Albert’s (he had already changed the locks) and get the rest of his stuff.

Among it was his bank book. He withdrew some money and managed to buy a used car. It’s nothing fancy, a red four-door Honda with a dent in the rear and stained interior. Even so, he’s proud of it. The first thing he’s been able to buy without the strings of his father overhead. Lacey’s proud of him too. She knows how hard it was for him to leave everything else behind, including his father. Despite everything, James does love Albert and Lacey can’t blame him. They’ve been through so much together, it’s not easy to say goodbye.

Lacey is halfway to the door when she hears someone clearing their throat. She turns around. Moe stands there, wearing a ripped white t-shirt and jeans covered in grass stains. Lacey sighs, internally cursing herself. She tries to avoid her father at all costs.

“Where ya headin’?” He asks, his voice tight.

Lacey shrugs, not really wanting to get into it with him. “Just here, there. It’s my day off.” She drops her heels to the floor and starts to slide her stocking feet into them.

“Hanging around with that Spencer boy?”

Lacey pauses, only one shoe on her feet. “How do you know about that?”

“Everyone’s seen the two of you around town together.” Moe scoffs. “I know you don’t care much about your reputation, Lacey, but is gold digger really the symbol you want for yourself?”

Lacey narrows her eyes, quickly slipping her right foot into the other heel. “I thought you’d be proud, Father,” she seethes. “If I get some money, maybe then we won’t get the van repossessed. Maybe I won’t have to make deals with fucking Gold every other month just so we can survive!”

“Hey!” Moe takes a step forward, shoving his finger in her face. “Don’t you talk to me that way, I’m your father.”

She lets out a bitter laugh. “You haven’t been my father since Mom died. All you care about is yourself and your beer. James is the only one that doesn’t want anything from me. I don’t have to take care of him or walk on eggshells. He’s the best guy I ever dated, I thought you’d be happy for me!”

Moe rolls his eyes, waving a disgusted hand in her direction. “And I’m sure his money is just an added bonus.”

“He doesn’t even have money anymore!” Lacey thunders back. “He left his father, the business. He’s trying to figure shit out for himself.”

“Oh, so he’ll need your money. As if we can afford that.”

Lacey clenches her jaw shut as she shrugs her way into her black leather jacket. Her body rattles as she zips it up over her burgundy sweater that crops just above her stomach. She’s worked nearly every day since she was 17 and found out that Moe gambled away her college fund. Stuck in a town where everyone is miserable. Where no one has any happiness. She’s busted her ass to try to find a way. And yet every month around bill time, she’s forced to drain the mason jar where she saves for a better life.

James is the first real thing to make her happy in a very long time. And she is not about to let her father take that away from her.

“I think I know what we can afford,” Lacey finally manages to snipe back. She hasn’t given James a dime. She tried, but he wouldn’t accept it. He wants to do things on his own. She’s just not going to give her father the satisfaction of knowing that. “I need to go.”

“Let me tell you this.” Moe walks closer to her so they meet eye to eye. Lacey inherited her height-or lack thereof-from him. They quickly grew to the same size by the time she was a freshman in high school. “You get your ass pregnant again, I’m not finding a way to cover it up. You can deal with the consequences yourself, if you want to run around like a big girl.”

Lacey’s lips purse together. Tears burn her eyes as the foggy memories of a baby overtake her mind. She’s blocked out so much of it. Holding him tight in her arms, pressing tiny kisses to his forehead. Thunder rolled in the background. Lightning struck in her prereferral vision. And yet, her eyes stayed on her baby. The tiny yet chubby being with big brown eyes who looked at her as if she were the most important thing in the world.

And in the next minute, he was gone. Moe told her that she was too young, too stupid to raise a child. Despite her asking where he went, Moe said she was better off not knowing. He had parents that could raise her far better than she ever could. In a moment, her beautiful baby boy had been ripped from her arms. A hole forever formed in her heart as she wondered what he would be like today.

They never spoke of her him, the son that her father forced her to give away. Lacey did her best to block out all memory of him. Jack Daniels typically did the trick, along with anything else one could find at the Rabbit Hole. There had been a point where she tried harder drugs that Keith supplied. She’d black out on the sticky black tiles of the bar’s bathroom, coming to in Ruby’s bed with a bloody nose, aching head and the ever so subtle reminder of what she had done to herself. By the third time, Granny found out and threatened to fire her. It was then she started implementing random drug tests, only letting Lacey off the hook after she passed five. She gave up the nose candy after that, but still turned to alcohol almost nightly before she met James. She’s gotten better about it now, but there are times she still feels the itch for something greater.

Lacey gets closer to her father, the beer radiating off his breath. He always has something to say about her partying, as if she didn’t inherit the coping skill from him.

“You mention my son again and it’ll be the last thing you ever do.”

She pushes past him, their shoulders bumping together as she heads to the door. In the distance, she can hear him mumbling about disrespect and how he should throw her out. Lacey knows they’re all hollow threats. If he kicks her out, who’s going to pay the rent?

James looks over the rickety table that’s only a few feet away from his bed. He’s covered the chipped yellow paint with an old blanket to act as a tablecloth. A little while ago, he ordered breakfast sandwiches from Granny’s (sausage and egg for him, veggie egg whites with turkey bacon for Lacey) along with some coffee (black for him, three creams and five sugars for Lacey). He’s arranged it on some floral plastic plates that Mary Margaret leant him. It’s nowhere close to the romantic picnics they’ve had in the park or Lacey’s Jag, but it’ll do for the moment.

The want ads lay on his unmade bed, next to some leaflets for apartments nearby. He can afford a couple of them, but only once he gets a job. All of his interviews have been a bust. Granny’s been great about letting him live there, but he knows it’s not going to last long.

His father’s words echo in his head “You can’t do this without me”.

James can’t fail. He can’t go crawling back to his father and prove him right. He needs to do this. He can figure it out. Besides, he’s not alone. David and Mary Margaret have been a big help. Emma even tried to find work for him at the station, but Regina wouldn’t add it to the budget. And of course, Lacey has been by almost every day, circling jobs and helping him arrange tours of apartments. He’s not sure what he would do without her.

A sharp knock at the door sends a chill running down his spine. Lacey has a key and knows she can just come in. Has his father found him? He’s tried to do a good job of making sure he can’t be tracked.

Slowly, James walks to the door, his hand shaking around the knob. A feeling of relief crashes over him when on the other side, he simply finds the mayor. He forces a smile on his face, which she matches.

“Hello Madam Mayor.” James arches an eyebrow. “How did you know to find me here?”

“I’m the mayor, I know everything.” Regina lets out a light chuckle and James manages to keep his smile. “I heard you quit your job.”

James scratches the back of his neck. News travels fast in a small town. “I did.”

“Well, I have a proposition for you. You have a masters in library science, correct?”

He nods. James always wanted to be a librarian, but with the local one closed, he was forced to take a job with Albert. “Yes, ma’am.”

“I’ve found some money in the budget and I want to reopen the library.” James eyes light up with excitement. “My son loves to read and he’s been so blue lately…” A pang of guilt that James has never seen before on her flashes before her eyes. “Anyway, I want to reopen it but our old librarian is no longer with us. If you’d be willing to help get it back into shape, you can work there. Plus there’s a little apartment upstairs that you can live in.”

“I…of course,” James stammers out. “Thank you so much.”

“Splendid. Come to my office tomorrow and we’ll go over paperwork. I’m going to have some construction crews look in there, see what needs to be fixed. But I’d like to open after the New Year. You could move into the apartment next week, though.”

“Yes, yes, of course. Again, thank you so much, Madam Mayor.”

“It’s my pleasure. There’s just one thing.”

James holds his breath. He had to know this was too good to be true. Regina is very much like his father. She dangles something in front of someone, only to rip it away. He’s watched her do it with Mary Margaret whenever there’s an event at the school. Everyone’s whispered about how hard she made it for Emma to become sheriff. She has a control most mayors wouldn’t. She doesn’t just run the town, but everyone’s happiness to boot.

“What is it?” James asks warily.

“There was a murder in the basement, it’s partially why we closed. The only way I can reopen the library is if no one goes down there.” She fixes him with a harsh look. “Ever.”

James tilts his head. “I never heard of a murder.”

“It was before your time,” Regina continues, bristly. “So, do we have a deal or not?”

James extends his hand. The library isn’t huge, but it’s big enough that he wouldn’t need to worry about the basement. “Deal.”

Her forced smile is replaced with a warmer one as she shakes it. “Very well. I’ll see you in my office tomorrow, 8 AM sharp.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Regina turns to leave, when Lacey comes up the cramped hallway. She takes a step back, gesturing for the mayor to walk past her. Regina smirks as she walks away. Lacey tilts her head, coming into the loft. James closes the door behind her.

“What was that all about?”

“Um, she just gave me a job and a place to live.”

Lacey raises a brow. “What?”

“The old library. She says I can reopen it and live in the apartment above.”

A smile spreads across Lacey’s face as she grabs hold of his arms. “James, that’s amazing.” She presses a quick kiss to his lips. “I can’t believe that old place is going to be up and running.”

“I never thought I’d see the day either. Here, I got you breakfast.”

Lacey gives him another kiss, following him over to the table. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“I wanted to.” The two settle down and dig into their sandwiches. “I’m going to meet with Mayor Mills tomorrow, but she says I can move into the loft within the next week.”

“That’s great.”

“I’m sure Granny will be glad to have her loft back.”

Lacey laughs, taking a sip of her coffee. “She seems like an old grump, but really she has a heart of gold. It really didn’t take much convincing for her to let you stay here.”

James nods, pausing to chew his sandwich. “I just…I’ve never had this.”

“A crappy loft above a diner that smells like onions.”

He cracks a smile. “Well, that…and just…people willing to help me. Dave and I were estranged before he fell into his coma. All I had was my father and all of his help came with strings.”

Lacey takes his hand, squeezing it tight. “It’s not going to be like that now.”

“I know. And I’m just grateful for it.” He caresses her cheek with his free hand. “I’m really happy right now, Lacey. And I have you to thank for that.”

“It was all you. You found your courage and inner voice.”

James chuckles a bit. “I still don’t know where that came from.”

“It was always in you.” Lacey bites her lip. “Sometimes we just have to fight to find it.”

James studies her face. This isn’t her usual sarcastic demeanor. “Lace…is everything alright.”

It’s her turn to force a smile on her face. “I’m fine.”

“Lacey.”

“My dad and I just went at it this morning.” She pulls away from him to take another bite of her sandwich. “You’re not the only one with a crappy father.”

James sends a sympathetic look in her direction. “Drunk or hungover?”

“Hungover.” Lacey pauses. “You know I didn’t go after you because you have money, right?”

“Well, technically I don’t have much money anymore.” Lacey fixes him with one of her signature looks. “Seriously, Lacey, I knew that from the start. Why? Did someone say you did?”

“Just my dad. Apparently, the whole town thinks I’m a gold digger.”

James frowns, taking her hand again. “You’re not a gold digger, Lacey. You were one of the few people who wanted to help me. And I knew from the start, you had no ulterior motive. Fuck what other people think.”

“I wish it was that easy,” she whispers, stirring the swizzle stick around her coffee.

“I get that. We can’t just wish anxiety away.” James squeezes her hand. “But just know, I know you for who you are. I know your truth. And whatever these assholes have to say won’t change that.”

Lacey shoots him a half-smile. “Thanks,” she whispers.

“Anytime.” He lifts her hand and gives it a small kiss, making her blush a little. “My oh my, is Lacey French blushing?”

She rolls her eyes. “Shut up.”

He smiles, moving back so he can drink his own coffee. “There’s the Lacey I remember.”

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (Wedding Day)

Belle stares at the dress that hangs on the mannequin. It’s white, as per the tradition of the land. Yet, she was able to make it into something she actually liked. Simple beading takes over the bodice and full skirt. The corset is simple, nothing that will leave her struggling to breathe throughout the ceremony. Beige see through satin hangs above the chest with an intricate floral design that flows from there and down the sleeves. Nearby are the open toe heels. They’re going to pinch her feet like no tomorrow, but God are they beautiful. Made of silver with jewels encrusted throughout. Purple roses sit elegantly at the top. No one will be able to see the shoes beneath her dress, but once she saw them at the market one day, she knew they had to be hers.

Today is her wedding day. It’s something she’s thought about since she was 8 years old and deemed mature enough to attend her first wedding. She wore a ridiculous yellow and pink gown with matching carnations jamming her curls. Belle sat in the second row, watching the mundane ceremony. Every single royal wedding she’s attended goes exactly the same. Bride comes down, her father giving her away. The priest will muddle on about responsibilities and duty. There’ll be mention of producing an heir. As young as she was, Belle found the whole process clinical and boring. It seemed nothing like her favorite books where people are madly in love. When she asked her mother about it, she was met with a sad smile.

“We don’t have the luxury to marry for love, my dear Belle.”

Belle’s dreams of having that lovestruck romance were dashed that day. Her parents began to prepare her for a life where she would one day be matched to carry on the legacy of their kingdom. After her mother’s death, her father attempted to set her up with many suitors but none ever panned through. Before James, the last had been Gaston. He wasn’t an awful man, but he would expect her to be quiet and docile. To never have an opinion about anything ever. Her father didn’t care when she raised concerns. Inevitably, it didn’t work out and Gaston’s parents found a “more worthy suitor”. Belle knew she was getting older. Some whispered that she was reaching “spinster age” and Maurice worked harder to find her a husband.

She never expected to actually fall in love with her fiancé.

The maidens have rushed out to grab her veil. She’s following the simple traditions: something old (her mother’s veil), something new (a pair of pearl earrings gifted to her by Abigail) something borrowed (the ruby bracelet Snow leant her) and something blue (a handkerchief tucked beneath her breasts). It’s the one part of the wedding that she’s actually excited about.

Grabbing hold of the carefully wrapped package, Belle tightens her robe around her and carefully sneaks out of the room. Hiding behind walls and dodging beneath statues, she makes it to James’ wing. She peaks her head through the door, getting a good look at his navy-blue suit, laying atop a poofy white tunic. His blonde main has been gelled to the side and she can spot the concealer on his face. It’s enough to make him stand out against the crowd.

He stands alone, fiddling with his jacket. Belle takes a step inside, clearing her throat. He looks up at her, a playful smile going across his face.

“Don’t you know it’s bad luck to see the groom before the wedding?”

“It’s also considered bad luck to knock up the bride, so we’re good.” She closes the door behind him. “Where is everyone?”

“My father had a wardrobe emergency.” James rolls his eyes. “Leave it to George to make my day about himself. What about you?”

“They’re off finding my veil. My father swore it was in his room but apparently it got mixed up with the stuff to move to the summer palace.” She holds out the gift. “This is for you. Happy birthday.”

James’ smile widens as he accepts it. “You didn’t have to do this.”

“I did. I feel a little bad we have to get married on your birthday.”

He shakes his head. “I already have to share it with David, you’re a lot cuter than he is.”

Belle laughs, watching him slowly remove the ribbon. “Where is he anyway?”

“Overseeing the flower placement.” James lowers his voice. “We’re still on for tonight, correct?”

Belle nods, the plan playing over in her head. Because Midas agreed to let Abigail marry Frederick, the wedding between she and David was called off. He agreed to return the castle temporarily as to not arouse suspicion. George has made comments about fining him a new wife, but in the meantime, the James and Belle’s wedding was to move forward as planned. Little did he realize, the three would escape that night. Belle and James were due for their honeymoon, while David would claim he was visiting old friends in Arendelle. In reality, with Lancelot’s help, they’d return to Snow and Red’s camp where they’d finally blow the whistle that Rumpelstiltskin gave them. The coup for both of their kingdoms would begin.

James finishes unwrapping the gift, revealing a leather-bound book. He starts flipping through the handmade pages, studying the cursive carefully.

“These are all by different poets.”

“I made it.” He glances up at her. “I took some of your favorites, some of mine. There were others I recently found and thought you’d enjoy.”

“How did you make this?” James asks in awe.

Belle shrugs. “My mother taught me when I was younger. You bind the paper to the leather by hand. I can teach you, if you want.”

“I’d love that.” James sets the book down onto his vanity and gently kisses her. “This is perfect, thank you.”

She kisses him again, allowing it to linger. “You’re welcome, my love. Happy birthday.”

James smiles as he caresses her cheek. “I have something for you too.”

“James, it’s your birthday.”

“I know, but it’s also our wedding day.”

James reaches into the breast pocket of his jacket, removing a box. He lifts the lid, revealing a ring. The braided silver leads up to a diamond shaped space on the top, with two small diamonds nestled beside a larger ruby. Belle gently takes the ring, her mouth dropping open just a bit.

“James,” she whispers. “This is beautiful.”

“It was my mother’s,” he explains. “She gave it to my nanny to give to me when I was old enough. I know my father will give us hideous rings to exchange at the ceremony today, but this is the one I wanted to give my wife.” James lets out a deep breath. “I also never got to ask you something.”

He takes the ring back and drops to one knee. Belle’s lips turn upwards.

“When we met,” James says. “It was expected we’d get married. We never had a choice. It was for the good of the kingdom. But in this past month, Belle, I have fallen in love with you. I’ve made the choice that you are the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with. You’re the one I want to fight for our kingdom with. The one I want to raise a family with. I used to read about soulmates but I never thought I’d actually find one.” He slides the ring onto her finger. “Princess Isabelle Collette of Royaume de Primevère, will you marry me?”

Belle looks down at the ring, then into his beautiful, deep blue eyes. His words become tattooed on her heart. A proclamation of love from the man she once viewed as merely the “playboy prince”. In reality, he’s a man who has lost so much and hides his vulnerability away so he won’t get hurt again. A month ago, she was marrying him out of obligation. Today, it is one of love.

“Yes, James,” she declares. “I would love nothing more than to marry you.” He beams as he rises to his feet and pulls her in for a kiss. She returns it for a moment before placing her hands on his cheeks. “I promise to love you and cherish you. To call you out when you do something completely stupid.” James lets out a roaring laugh. “To stand by your side throughout this battle. You are not alone anymore.”

She lets out a deep breath. “One of my favorite authors once wrote, Love is not love which alters it when alteration finds, or bends with the remover to remove: O no! It is an ever-fixed mark that looks on tempests and is never shaken; it is the star to every wandering bark whose worth's unknown, although his height be taken. Love's not Time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks within his bending sickle's compass come: Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks, but bears it out, even to the edge of doom.

Her fingers caress his jaw. “Our love is strong enough to survive anything. This war, our fathers’ scorn, time itself and anything else life wants to throw our way.”

James wraps his arms around her waist, pulling her closer. “Those were some beautiful vows,” he murmurs.

“Well, in a couple of hours, I’ll be forced to recite ones that our ancestors have for years. These are the words showing you how I feel.”

Their exits are staggered that night. James and Belle leave first, heading out by their carriage to head back into the woods. Lancelot masquerades as their driver, a hefty bag of gold shimmying from his pockets. He knows he cannot return to the kingdom until the battle is won. James has promised to make him the head of the knights and he gleefully accepted.

James slides his fingers through Belle’s. They changed before leaving. Typically, one would still wear royal threads on their honeymoon. Both now wear tunics and leather pants beneath their mink cloaks. Their luggage contains only a few of their favorite things, along with weapons, extra provisions and anything else they might need for war. David will follow in a couple of hours, once he’s got his own things together. Another knight, Gawain, has agreed to help get him to the camp.

A typical 12-hour journey becomes 2 days, so they can get George’s scent off their trail. Belle and James dismount from the carriage, sending Lancelot to get some rest in one of the tents that the dwarves have set up for him. David is already there, going over some maps with Red and Snow. His fingers are laced with the latter, showing that even in planning mode, they’re deeply in love.

James and Belle walk over to them, exchanging hugs and pleasantries. Once he pulls away from Snow, James removes the whistle from his pocket. Holding the cool silver metal to his lips, he lets a loud, piercing sound head off throughout the forest. Everyone waits with bated breath, staring out into the horizon.

At least 30 hummingbirds flap their wings in the distance. James gets a better look, tilting his head. No, those aren’t hummingbirds. They’re fairies.

A myriad of pastels fly into the horizon. The leader of the group, dressed in all blue, floats to the ground and uses her wand to grow to full size.

Snow smiles. “Blue!”

“We’re her to help you,” she says. “It’s time to take back your kingdoms.”

Belle's Dress:

Belle's Shoes:

Chapter Text

I am falling
And I'm too weak to fly
Now my heart's wide open
And you're the reason why
I've been broken
From the scars that I forgave
Spent a long time running
From the mess we've made
And oh
But I'd do it all again-Ella Henderson, All Again

The Enchanted Forest (3 years & 6 months until the Dark Curse)

James hangs back as David and Snow take great strides towards the medium sized farmhouse. Ivy flows over the wooden paneling. A matching door with a metal clapper sits in the middle. The front windows have beautifully decorated boxes with wildflowers. In the distance, there’s a big red barn and a few animals grazing on the grass.

This is where James was born. It’s where he got his start. He spent 3 months, 2 weeks and 4 days as the son of two farmers, before he’d become a prince.

He didn’t want to come and resisted it for a good 5 months. The fairies helped them take over George’s kingdom, James taking over as king. His father has been banished ever since. The war is still on to reclaim Snow’s. In the meantime, James helped the two move into the summer palace, while he and Belle reside in the main. His wife’s stomach grows rounder with every day. They’ve announced the pregnancy to the kingdom and with each passing day, it becomes more real for James. He’s going to be a father. It scares the ever-loving crap out of him. He knows he loves this child, but he’s terrified of repeating the cycle.

And that’s what finally dragged him to his biological mother’s farm: hope that her answers will bring him some sort of clarity.

David’s been here before. He found Ruth not long after he met Snow and they had a fairytale reunion. James knows it’s because he wanted it to go well. David will always love Serafina, but he’s felt this connection to Ruth since he found out she existed. It’s easy for him, James figures. He’s the one she wanted. She chose to give James to George and Serafina. David ending up with him was all Robert’s fault.

Belle’s fingers lace through his own and he spares her a small smile, placing their hands atop her stomach. The baby kicks violently. Another sharp reminder that in 3 short months, they’ll arrive.

“You sure you don’t want to rest?” He asks. “I know the journey was tiring.”

“The fresh air is doing me good,” Belle assures him. “Now come on. I’ll be with you every step of the way.”

They approach the door just as it opens. A young girl, no older than 11, stands there. Her thick black hair is tied off in a braid. She wears a simple green dress with a white smock tied around her waist. Her brown eyes lighten when she smiles.

“David.”

“Tiana.” He wraps her into a hug, before allowing Snow to do the same. “You remember my girlfriend, Snow.”

“Of course. It’s so nice to see you again.”

Snow grins. “You as well, sweetie.”

Tiana peers over them towards James. He shifts uncomfortably. “You weren’t kidding. I can barely tell the difference.”

“Wait until he starts talking,” Snow teases.

Normally James would roll his eyes, but instead he stares awestruck. David warned him that their biological mother had remarried and inherited a step-child, but it’s too real here. She’s raising this child, when she couldn’t either of them.

When he doesn’t speak, Belle does. “I’m Belle, James’ wife.”

“I’ve heard so much about you.” Tiana goes to curtesy, but Belle raises a hand to dismiss her.

“We’re family,” she says.

Family. That’s one way of putting it.

Tiana nods. “Please come in.” She gestures inside. Snow and David follow her, Belle letting go of James to do the same. She looks back at him, tilting her head.

James clears his throat. “I um, I better make sure that the horses are okay.”

Belle’s face drops. “James.”

“Go, I’ll be along shortly.”

She looks unsure, but eventually follows Tiana inside. James heads back to the carriage, running his fingers through Jocosa’s mane. He offers his favorite horse a sugar cube, a rare treat. She scarfs it down, her wet gums brushing against his palm.

“This was a mistake,” he whispers to himself.

It’s a betrayal to Serafina. To the mother that loved and cherished him for the first 5 years of his life. He shuts his eyes, doing his best to remember her scent. For months after her death, he slept with a pillow he stole from her chambers. A maid accidentally took it to be washed and he could never quite recreate it. Sandalwood and amber was a part of it, the signature perfume the local merchant mixed special for her. Yet, there was more to it than that. The ivory soap she bathed with. Spices from the kitchen, she loved to cook when she could. The way she somehow always smelt like a new book. And yet, no matter how hard he tries, he can never recreate it.

He forces himself to remember what she looked like, out of fear it’ll slip for good and all he’ll be left with are the portraits that were clearly exaggerated. Long dark hair that she made a big show of taking out of its combs and pins. She loved when she could wear it loose. James used it as his security blanket as they cuddled up to read Her Handsome Hero. Those big brown eyes that stared at him with love.

Her voice. It’s slowly slipping from memory. Once upon a time, he could still hear her whispering “I love you, my little bookworm”. Now, it’s faint, like a record scratching into obscurity.

James clutches his palms, starting to dig his nails in before stopping. “Don’t go back there,” he whispers.

It started with just allowing his nails to pierce his skin when he was 8 years old. By the time he was 12, he was using a small yet powerful knife to make cuts into his arms. At 16, a maiden walked in on him holding his hand above an open flame.

“I just wanted to feel something,” he told her once she retrieved the ice. It was one of the rare moments of affection since his mother died.

She had promised not to tell his father, if he promised to quit. It hadn’t been easy and he had slipped up now and again, but for 3 years, he was clean.

“That’s a pretty horse.”

The voice pulls him out of his inner demons. Slowly, James turns to face her.

Ruth looks older than she should. David told him that she had them when she was only 20. Yet, wrinkles encroach her face. Each probably has their own story to tell. Her brown hair grays at the roots. Crow’s feet dance around her brown eyes.

Both of his mothers have brown eyes.

A porcelain pendant surrounded by silver hangs around her neck. She’s better dressed than he pictured, a cotton shirt paired with a matching skirt. A wool fleece is draped around her shoulders. On her finger, he spots a simple gold band, symbolizing her new marriage.

This is her. His biological mother. The one he’s thought about almost every day since Robert dragged him out of Pleasure Island. The one he’s hated himself for daring to think of.

“Her name is Jocosa.” It’s all he can come up with.

Ruth nods. “I’m…”

“Ruth. I know.”

She tilts her head just like David does. Like James knows he does. He didn’t realize it was a trait they shared until Belle pointed it out after they overthrew George. James shares so much with his brother….maybe even more with his biological mother.

No. He can’t go there.

“Look at you,” Ruth whispers. She takes him in, staring at the beige tunic paired with black pants. “You’re…”

“Just like David?” He offers.

Ruth shakes her head. “No. I mean, you look alike…but I know you’re not your brother.” She gently strokes Jocosa’s hair. James goes to warn her that she doesn’t do well with strangers but to his surprise, his horse allows it.

Traitor.

She keeps her eyes on the horse. “You didn’t come with David the first time.”

James bristles a bit. “I was busy. We just took over our…” How is he to address their adoptive father. “George’s kingdom. My wife is pregnant. There’s a lot to prepare.”

“That’s the only reason?”

He resists the urge to roll his eyes. “I don’t have to explain myself to you. If anything, you should be answering me.”

Ruth looks up, her eyes steeled over. “What questions do you have?”

He was going to be slow with it. Take his time. Exchange small talk and accept a tour around the farm. But she’s the one that followed him out to the horse. She started all of it.

He starts with a soft one. “When’d you marry Edna?”

“Eudora,” Ruth corrects. “And two years ago. She lost her kingdom due to financial issues. Tian and her moved to my village. We started bartering, I’d invite them to dinner. We had a simple ceremony, just some of her family and my friends.”

James nods. At least she wasn’t running out to replace them the second they were sent to live with George. “This farm is a lot nicer than I expected.” He was told tales of a poverty ridden couple.

“That’s the King…your father’s doing,” Ruth replies. Her voice remains nonchalant, but he can see the conflict on her face. “He made sure we got a sum every year. The first few after it happened, Robert would gamble it away. I fixed our finances after he died.”

James hides an impressed face as he takes great interest in his horse. He can’t remember if his own mother was allowed to handle the finances of their castle. A part of his royalty classes was money management. Belle knew a lot, but her mother was like his own, a modern queen with her own ideals. He supposes commoners might have to handle things differently.

Ruth turns to face him. “I wasn’t always a poor farmhand, you know?” James looks up. “I was once a noblewoman. My parents had a lovely home, we did well for ourselves. I attended balls, ate some of the finest foods.”

James digs his leather shoe through the dirt, ignoring the screams of his cobbler. “What happened?”

“Robert.” She lets out a laugh, shaking her head. “I used to sneak down to a tavern in our village. It had the best ale. And one night, I came across a handsome older guy with a charming smile. We spent the entire evening talking about…everything.” A dreamy look crosses her eyes. “I kept sneaking down to the tavern. And then…well…” She smiles a bit. “I got pregnant.”

James shifts uncomfortably. Apparently, he’s not the only one with a pregnancy before they could say “I do”. “I’m sure that caused a scandal.”

“Oh, quite a bit. My parents went into crisis mode. They wanted to move Robert into our home, get him work with my father. But he refused, he didn’t want to depend on anyone. So instead, they bought us this farm. It was fine in the beginning and then Robert started drinking heavily…” Her smile vanishes. “Everything went downhill from there.”

He purses his lips, unsure of what to say. James never had grand ideas about Robert. He reeked of ale when their paths crossed in Pleasure Island. Robert had scared him just as much as George did that night. And yet, he always tried to tell himself that his biological father only got that way because he had to give up a son.

James clears his throat. “That why you sold me to George? To fix his mistakes?”

Ruth’s eyes widen. “No, of course not.”

“How’d you choose anyway? Pick whichever one of us seemed to love you more?” Anger and resentment balloon in his heart.

“James.” Ruth tries to take his hand, but he yanks away from her. “James, you need to listen to me. That’s not how it went at all!”

“Then explain it to me, Ruth.” He glares down at her. Ruth’s eyes are filled with pain and sorrow. “How in the hell did you decide that I would be the chosen one? I know Robert sold David behind your back, but how did you decide?”

“I didn’t.”

“Of course you did.”

“You don’t understand!” Ruth throws her arms in the air. “It was a coin.”

“A what?”

Ruth sighs, running her fingers through her shoulder length curls. She shuts her eyes for a moment before finally focusing on him once more.

“You and your brother were born with weak lungs. Did George ever tell you that?”

James gnaws on his lip. He can remember becoming breathless during a few trainings, being given medicine. A few harsh winters before his mother died where she nursed the twins to health as they coughed harshly. “No. But it’s not a surprise.”

Ruth nods. “I scraped up some money to get a doctor to look at you. He said that you required expensive medicine to make it through the winter. I sent Robert out to try to make some extra money, sell anything we owned. But he fell short. We were so scared…and then…that man showed up.” An air of darkness falls over her.

“That man?”

Ruth shakes her head. “I refuse to speak his name. It only brings about wickedness.” She swallows. “He told us that George couldn’t produce an heir, he needed a son. In exchange, he’d give us everything we needed to help the other twin live and for our farm to thrive.”

“I know this part.”

“Well, what you probably don’t know is that I was furious. I said no, I wasn’t going to part with either of my babies. I’d make it work, somehow.” She sighs. “But your fath-Robert…he said yes. I wanted to protest; say we could find a way. And yet, from the look in his eyes, I knew there was no way out. This guaranteed you’d both be safe.”

He was wanted. Ruth fought for him. That goes against everything James was ever told, all he was ever taught. James stares at her, wordlessly.

“The wicked man produced a coin. Said if it was heads, David would go. Tails…”

“I would,” James finishes for her in a whisper.

“Robert flipped it without even looking.” She shuts her eyes once more. “I couldn’t even hold you one last time; he took you and said you could no longer be my son. No one could ever know. I mourned you for weeks, I barely let David out of my sight. And then one night Robert offered me a glass of wine, he said it’d help me rest. Promised me he’d tend to the baby. When I woke up the next morning, he was gone.”

James’ fingers twitch at his sides. There’s a haunted pain in Ruth’s voice, tears falling through her clamped eyelids. He has only known her 15 minutes and he has the desire to hug her, to take this pain away. Why does she have to cry?

And yet, he stays planked in place

“I wanted to fight,” Ruth continues. “Get both of you back, but Robert said it’d put everyone involved in danger Six years later, you ran away from the palace. Robert swore he could save you, that we could be a family again. I think he thought it’d save our marriage. I told him it was a terrible idea.”

James scoffs. “Yeah, saving me was a terrible idea.”

Her watery eyes open. “No, James, saving you was the right thing. But I knew…by then you were a prince. You had a life full of riches, you had your brother. Another…” Ruth lets out a shaky breath. “Another mother.”

“She had died the year before.”

“I didn’t know that then,” she whispers. “But either way, I knew how badly it hurt me when you were ripped from me. I couldn’t do that to George and Serafina, I couldn’t do that to David. He didn’t even seem to care about him, to fight for him. He swore you and you alone were our happy ending.”

“You didn’t tell David that did you?”

“Of course not!” Ruth briefly looks over her shoulder to the house, making sure her other son is still safe inside. “Robert didn’t return from that trip. I was told he died in a drunken cart accident but I knew the truth. It was foolish to go up against the king.” She purses her lip. “You know, I cried the days that my babies were ripped from me…but I didn’t shed a tear that day. I buried him the following evening, didn’t even invite my parents. He didn’t even have a grave until I could afford one and I didn’t even feel bad about it.”

She stares down at her left hand where her wedding band from Eudora now sits.

“I once thought we shared true love, maybe we did. But that was gone by the time he left to find you.” Her eyes connect with his once more. “One thing never changed, however. The moment I held you James, I loved you. I wanted you. And that love has never left my heart. You have always been my beautiful baby boy.”

Baby boy. The term of endearment echoes in his mind. James hasn’t been anyone’s baby in quite some time. Serafina would whisper it in his ear as he drifted off to sleep. George was never one for nicknames, none affectionate anyhow. He thought he stopped being someone’s baby a long time ago…and yet, he’s always remained hers.

The tears burn his eyes. For so long he told himself that he was unwanted. To George, he was an heir. A tradition. If he could produce one biologically, he never would’ve taken the twins in. To Robert, he was a redemption arc. He couldn’t find it within himself to be a better person, he needed a six-year-old to achieve it. James believed that his biological mother had carelessly cast him aside for her favorite. From the moment Serafina died until he met Belle, James truly believed no one wanted him.

On a farm two villages away, there was a woman with a tired soul that yearned for him. That loved him.

That wanted him.

James rubs his eyes with the back of his hand. She cannot see him cry. He cannot allow himself to be vulnerable around her.

Ruth’s hand goes to his arm once more and this time, he doesn’t pull away. He looks down at her own tear stained face and lets out a long breath.

“I am so sorry, James,” Ruth whispers. “I gave you up so you could have everything. I never wanted you to hurt.”

James sniffles. “It’s not as if you had any way of knowing.”

“I grew up in that circle, I should’ve…”

“Ruth, you didn’t do anything. George did. Robert did.” He blocks out the memories of George demanding his guards do away with his biological father. The beating that came after. “You, Serafina…you were the only ones who truly showed your love for me and David. And that’s all I could’ve asked for.”

It’s more complicated that. They both know that.

They also know this can’t be solved in one afternoon.

James scrubs his hand over his face. “Um…do you want to meet my wife?”

Ruth gives him a small smile. “I would love to.”

He leads her back towards the house. A loft above shows what’s probably Tiana’s room. Off to the left is a few panels closing off another bedroom. The rest of the house is open concept. Belle, Snow, David and Tiana sit with a woman who looks like an older clone of the latter. Belle rises to her feet, her hand cradling the bump. She walks over to them, a warm smile on her face.

“Ruth, this is Belle. Belle, this is my…this is Ruth.”

Belle grasps her hand, shaking it. “It’s amazing to meet you.”

“Likewise.” Ruth beams at her stomach. “How much longer do you have?”

“Should be 3 months.”

“Do you know?”

“I’ve done a few oldwives tales that I read about in books, but they give me conflicting results. I’m craving chocolate and boiled candies. I’m also carrying high. So, that points to girl. But my ankles are swollen and I’ve had headaches every other day. That all says boy.” Belle shrugs. “I don’t know what to believe.”

Ruth’s hand goes over her necklace. “My mother gave this to me when I was pregnant with the boys. She said it was spelled by a gypsy to predict the sex of your firstborn. It works even before you’re with child.”

“It works?” Belle asks.

“It did with my boys. North to south, boy. East to west, girl.” She slowly unhooks the chain around her neck. “You can test it out, if you wish.”

Belle and James exchange a Look. They’ve talked about looking into potions to find out, simply so they can plan on a name and the nursery. Those all come with a price and none is worth it when it comes to their child. This is a simple necklace, enchanted generations ago. What could the harm be?

“Sure,” Belle says.

Ruth passes the necklace to James, who holds it above his wife’s rising bump. He holds back a deep breath, waiting for it to swing. Finally, it goes into motion.

North to south.

A son.

Tears prick James’ eyes once more. They’re going to have a son. He’ll be the father to a little boy.

In that moment, he knows what he has to do. It’s not enough to wish he’ll be better than George, Robert or William. It’s going to take action. Courage.

And he’s going to find it, for the good of himself, his wife and most importantly, their son.

Queen Serafina of the Enchanted Forest (Phillipa Soo):

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (December 18^th, 2011)

James looks from the large bed frame to his Honda. The backseat is roomy, but it definitely isn’t going to fit this. Lacey stands beside him, her arms folded over a white faux-fur crop sweater. She blows a strand of hair that falls loose from her messy bun. It’s freezing outside and her skirt barely covers her ass. It’s sexy, but James worries for her health.

“I don’t think it’ll fit in the back of my Jag, either,” Lacey says before he can mention the size issue.

“Well, what are we gonna do? I already paid Mr. Morris for it. It’s the only frame I found on Craigslist that’ll actually fit in that tiny apartment.”

James rolls his eyes, but a smile stays on his face as he thinks about the hideaway above the library. It definitely has seen better days. He spent an entire Tuesday dusting, breaking up spider webs and cleaning up droppings of some animal that he hoped was no longer squatting (he set traps just in case). That Thursday, Lacey helped him paint. Together they covered up holes in the wall and covered a hideous smoke stain with a sketch of a castle that David made for James after he finished his bachelor program. A plumber stopped by earlier in the day to fix the pipes and an electrician made sure everything was up to code. It’s by no means James’ dream house, but it’ll do for now. No rent and the commute is agreeable.

Most of the furniture has already been purchased or donated. Mary Margaret is in the middle of redecorating her apartment and offered up a couch along with some chairs. David had some old kitchen appliances he was no longer using, such as a microwave and blender, so he donated them. Emma brought over some suitcases after she noticed a majority of his things were in trash bags.

“As a kid, whenever I moved homes, my entire life went a single Hefty bag,” she explained. “You deserve something nice to move your clothes in.”

James can’t believe how connected he feels to her, Mary Margaret too. He hasn’t known them for very long. David only just became official with Mary Margaret around the same time James and Lacey did. Emma is only Mary Margaret’s roommate, but she fits right in. It’s like they’re a family. How things were always meant to be. The situation reminds James of the sitcoms he used to sneakily watch after his father went to bed. Groups of friends, willing to help each other out through anything.

“Maybe I should call David,” James mutters.

“That’s a good idea,” Lacey says. “He has a truck, it’ll probably fit in the back.”

A quick call and 5 minutes later, David’s rusty old clunker pulls into view. Mary Margaret sits in the passenger side, with Emma sandwiched in the middle of them. David gets out of the driver’s seat, Emma sliding out after him. With James’ help, they start to move the frame into the back.

“This is a nice piece,” Emma says.

“For $300, it’ll do,” James replies as he carefully lowers his side into the bed. David grabs some rope to secure it. “I’m sorry if I intruded anything.”

Mary Margaret leans out the window. “Don’t worry about it. We were actually just at the movies, but we knew today was moving day for you and were about to head to the library to see if you needed any help.”

James tilts his head. “Really?”

David finishes securing the frame to the back. “Of course, we know you have Lacey but you’re my brother.”

Emma shrugs. “I also had nothing better to do.”

James lets out a laugh with everyone else, while a warm feeling takes over. When David slipped into his coma, James’ life became work, visiting his brother in the hospital and sleeping. He had no one to confide in and felt even more trapped under Albert’s thumb. After he met Lacey, suddenly he was never alone. James has an amazing girlfriend, is rebuilding the connection with his twin and becoming friends with people that are close to David.

He’s definitely not alone anymore.

While Lacey and Mary Margaret unpack the kitchen, Emma sets up the TV. James and David manage to fit the frame into the tiny bedroom that’s right off the den. The bathroom attached is the size of a shoebox, with the toilet and shower practically sitting upon one another. It’s built for one person, two at most.

“And I thought Mary’s place was small,” David quips, wiping his brow.

James rolls his eyes. “Well, free rent is free rent.”

“Can’t blame you there.”

James quickly shuts the door, grabbing the fitted sheets. “So, what’s with Emma?”

David takes hold of one end, helping him put it on the mattress. “What do you mean?”

“Well, she’s always hanging out with you guys. Not that I mind,” he quickly clarifies, cursing himself when the stupid corner pops back up again. Aggressively, he pulls it down once more. “Just a little odd.”

David shrugs. “I don’t know, honestly. I mean, me and Mary Margaret have our alone time, but Emma doesn’t really have many friends in town. We don’t like her to be alone, so we invite her to tag along. She said she felt like a third wheel but I think she enjoys it.” He chuckles, skillfully pulling his corner over the side of the mattress. “She jokes we’re like the parents she never had.”

James laughs, shaking his head. “Yeah, you a parent of a 28-year-old.”

“Make your jokes, but I did always want kids.”

James nods, remembering his brother prattling on about the “whole package”: wife, white picket fence, 2.5 kids. “Think you’ll make one with Mary Margaret.”

“A bit soon to tell, but we are moving in together.”

James grins. “Davey, that’s great. When?”

“My lease is up come New Years. We worried it’d be weird with Emma, but she’s all for it. So long as we put a sock on the front door.” David chuckles. “What about you and Lacey? Kids?”

“We literally just started dating, dude.”

“So? You haven’t thought about it at all?”

James had always been up in the air about kids. He thought they were adorable and loved whenever the other lawyers would bring in their little ones on “Bring Your Kid to Work Day”. He always stocked the break room with candy and read stories to the kids when their parents had meetings. And yet, he also knew that having kids would probably never happen so long as he was under Albert’s thumb. No girl wanted to date him long enough for it to get anywhere, not until Lacey anyway.

A kid would be nice. Well, there’d have to be more than one. As much of a pain as David could be, he loved growing up with a twin. Maybe they’d have the 2.5 kids, they could find a house with a white picket fence…

James quickly shakes his head. It’s too soon. They’ve barely been together a month. Who’s to say Lacey even wants kids?

“I have,” James admits. “But like I said, it’s just too soon.”

“I could see you with a kid.” David throws a quilt over the second sheet. “They’d probably be a nerd like you.”

James rolls his eyes. “I am not a nerd.”

“You’re living above a library, Jimmy Jam, I’d say you’re just a tad nerdy.” David holds up his thumb and index finger just a smidge apart.

“Shut up.” James throws a pillow in his direction. David just chuckles and arranges it on the bed.

“I’m serious. You’d be a good dad.”

Would I though? All James knows about fatherhood is the example that Albert has given. He has foggy memories of baseball games and falling asleep on his father’s shoulders as he carried him back to the car. A few days of playing catch in the yard. But they’re also overwritten with his father screaming at him that he was worthless. All the times he told James that he was too stupid to handle his own finances, let alone rent an apartment by himself.

He knows he’d try to break the cycle, but what if he couldn’t?

James shakes his head once more. “It’s nothing to worry about right now. It’s not like Lacey and I are going to have a kid any time soon.”

“No, but still something to think about.”

James nods. It was something to think about indeed.

The rest of the day was spent putting together furniture and organizing boxes by room. Around 5, James calls it a day and orders Chinese for everyone as a thank you for their help. He still needs to unpack his books and most of the bathroom, but that can wait. The five of them gather around the rickety dining room table that he found in the thrift store for $15, on the mismatch chairs from either in the same shop or other people around town. It’s not anything like the interior magazines his father kept in the lobby for the clients to read, but it’s still something. His own place. One he fought for and got on his own. Albert had been wrong. He could strike it out on his own.

After the pork is gone and there’s only half a pack of beer left, David, Mary Margaret and Emma head back to the loft. Lacey stays behind to help clean up. She’s since taken off her ridiculous skirt and jacket, learning quickly it was not moving attire. Instead, she borrowed one of James’ shirts, a white button down that she tied to be just above her stomach along with an old pair of flannel pajama pants that had to be tied with a rope belt to fit her scrawny frame.

“You don’t have to stay,” James says as he grabs the lemon scented dish soap. Albert insisted on pine, James loathes the smell of pine. It reminds him too much of the forest. From the soap to the potpourri that his father never approved of to even the Washington Nationals poster in the den (Albert was always a Mets fan), everything is an indirect rebellion to his father.

Lacey rolls her eyes. “What’s the alternative? Going home and listening to Dad’s friends drunkenly gamble all their money away?” She smiles. “Anyway, I like it here.”

James looks around the chaotic yet homey environment. “Yeah, it’s nice.” He wraps his arms around her waist, leaning down to nibble on her ear. “You’re nice to look at too.”

“Look at you,” Lacey purrs. She turns in his grasp, peppering his jaw with kisses. “You know what I just realized? We forgot something.”

James frowns, going over the mental checklist in his head. Furniture, clothes, dish towels, a nightlight for the bathroom so he doesn’t have to blind himself to pee at 3 AM. What else is there? “I don’t think…”

“Christmas is next week and your apartment hardly shows it.”

A lightbulb practically hits James over the head. With everything going on, he had practically forgotten about the holiday season. It’s hard when Main Street looks like elves and candy canes threw up on it, but he’s been so preoccupied with moving, paperwork to reopen the library and hanging out with Lacey, his mind just hasn’t had the time to go there.

“I don’t think my living room is big enough for a tree,” he points out.

Lacey gives him a mischievous smile. “Now Jamie, haven’t you ever watched Charlie Brown?”

A few hours later, a tiny, pitiful tree sits on the windowsill overlooking Main Street. Decorated with paper snowflakes and stars made by James and Lacey, it’s nothing to write home about, but it is their first Christmas tree. A quick pop into Granny’s got them some lights generously donated by Ruby. They’re fat, multicolored and tacky, but he strings them above the ugly couch anyway. A few plastic candy canes hang on the wall while Santa’s hat sits atop the tiny television.

James pulls Lacey onto his lap, cuddling her close. “What are you doing for Christmas?” He whispers into her ear.

Lacey shrugs. “Dad and I will probably exchange gifts in the morning, but then he typically heads over to Aesop’s for drinks with his friends. Then I typically spend it working, but this year Granny’s decided to close.”

“Wanna come to lunch with me at David and Mary Margaret’s? She invited me last week, but I totally spaced. They’ve invited a few other strays.”

She smiles. “I’d love to.” Lacey carefully turns so she’s kneeling on his lap. “Now, what do you say we break in the couch?”

“Just the couch?” James wiggles his eyebrows.

Lacey lets out a loud, cackle laugh. “Wherever you want, baby boy.” Her arms slide around his neck, kissing him once more.

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (3 years & 3 months until the Dark Curse)

James crouches by Belle’s bedside, her nails digging deep into his palm. Sweat drenches her forehead, her normally pale face beet red as she pushes with all her might. After two days of contracting, Doc deemed her ready to labor that morning. It’s been a few hours and she’s finally pushing. Belle bends over in bed, her loose pink nightgown practically falling off her body.

“You’re almost there,” Doc says encouragingly.

“I want him out now!” Belle demands. The normally polite but firm princess is gone. In her place is a woman in deep pain. “Seriously!”

James squeezes her hand, ignoring that she’s drawn blood from him. “You’re doing so great, sweetheart.” He manages to kiss her ear before she doubles over in pain.

“Shut up!”

James obliges, he cannot imagine how much pain she’s in right now. He moves himself up so he’s on the bed wrapping an arm around her. Belle leans into him as she lets out another push, her sweat dripping onto this arm.

“I see the head,” Doc announces. “You’ve got this, your majesty.”

Belle grunts, James increasing his grip on her. He has his eyes on her, worried about her pain and what she’s going through, that he doesn’t hear Doc calling out “It’s a boy!” The loud, clear shriek that comes next gets his attention.

In Doc’s grasp is a chubby being covered in amniotic fluid and other gunk. His eyes not even open as he cries for the entire kingdom to hear. Still attached to his mother by an umbilical cord, he’s only moments old.

And James is already in love with him.

Doc says something about cutting the cord. James crawls out of the massive bed and walks over, accepting the sheers. His hands shake as it severs his son from his wife. The baby cries harder as James helps Doc wipe him clean. His skin his bright red from all the crying, face scrunched up and near pruney as he wails. James wraps him in the white wool blanket trimmed with green lace, made by Granny. Doc places the baby in his arms and James gets his first good look at him.

He’s still crying a bit, but his face isn’t as scrunched up. James quickly counts, 5 fingers, 5 toes, a set of two arms and legs a piece. The lightest dusting of brown hair is sprinkled against the head that James is doing everything to protect. His heart swells with pride, tears streaming down his face.

All his life, he knew that he would one day be a father. He knew he’d love his son, but he didn’t think it’d be like this. The overwhelming bout of protection. The way he’d drop dead for him in that very moment if it meant that he was safe. James instinctively rocks the baby, cooing softly down at him.

God, he’s the type to coo at babies.

“Hey there, big guy,” he gets the courage to whisper. “I know this is scary. You can’t see quite properly yet.” James about devoured every book on the subject of newborns. “I’m your daddy.”

Daddy. George had been “Daddy” for the briefest of periods but by the time James was 4, he was more than highly encouraged to call him “Father”. James winces at the memory of crying out for “Daddy” when he skinned his knee during knight training at 10 years old. George nearly killed him for “embarrassing himself. James quickly shakes that off. This baby can call him “Daddy” when he’s 10, he can call him that when he’s a grown man. Not that James is ever letting this chubby bundle of red grow up. He will never know just how cruel the world can be.

James turns to face his wife. Doc is handling the afterbirth, while Belle lays against the pillows. Her face has returned to its normal color. The sweat remains, drying slowly against her forehead. James walks over and she glances up at him, face growing soft. James carefully helps her hold him, pressing a kiss to her forehead.

“Thank you,” he whispers into her ear. “He is amazing.”

Belle stares down at their baby boy, tears spilling down her cheeks. “It was him,” she says, softly. “All this time. Those kicks, the somersaults.” She nuzzles his cheek. “It was always him.”

James drops beside her, once again wrapping his arm around her. They just marvel at him for what seems like forever, taking in every feature that they know will change over the next few months. Doc eventually takes him to be weighed and a few other things, but quickly returns him to Belle’s arms for a feeding.

“We still don’t have a name,” Belle says.

He nods, stroking the baby’s arm. They had tried to narrow down lists but eventually agreed they’d have to see him for something to come. He expected that as soon as he held the baby, a name would pop out to him. Now as he stares down at the little bundle in his wife’s arms, he doesn’t see a Bronson or Clayborne. This child, his child, how can he be so unsure of his name?

“We could always name him James,” Belle’s voice is hopeful and James sighs. She had been pushing for James II throughout her entire pregnancy but he wasn’t a fan of it. His son deserved to have his own name, not chase after his father’s legacy.

“Babe, it makes me feel good that you want to name our son after me but really, I don’t like it. Did you know James isn’t even my first name?”

Belle gives him a Look. “Of course, it is, Ruth said she named both you and David. David for her mother, Vida. And you after her father’s middle name.”

James shakes his head. “She did, but George changed it not long after he adopted me. My full name is George James. My mother refused to call me that, though, and insisted I go by James. Father tried to get it to stick after she died but I rebelled and he eventually gave up.”

Belle frowns, cuddling her baby closer. “God, if I didn’t already hate your father…”

“I know. But anyway, even if James was my legal first name, I still wouldn’t want him to have it.” He pauses, flinching a little. “We could go with Maurice?” It’s not a name he loves and he’s not entirely happy with Belle’s father these days, but he would be willing. For her.

“Hell no,” Belle’s voice turns venomous. “I don’t want him around my child, let alone naming a baby after him.”

James nods, rubbing her shoulder. After they overthrew George and announced their pregnancy, Maurice distanced himself. He returned to his own kingdom, refusing to come to the ball that celebrated both the pregnancy and the new monarchs. After a few tense letters back and forth, Maurice finally admitted that he was disappointed in Belle. She was to be a good girl, a quiet princess who submitted to her kingdom. Instead, she had nearly gotten herself killed. He also claimed to know that the baby was conceived out of wedlock, but James thinks he’d accuse them of that regardless of the truth. He’s angry and looking for reasons to cut them out. The whole ordeal has been hell on Belle, who was once so close to her father.

“I just thought I’d throw it out there,” James says. Belle slowly calms down, kissing the baby’s forehead. “I can’t say he looks like any from our list.”

“I know. My second choice after James was Hunter but he doesn’t look like one.”

James leans against the pillows, his hand absentmindedly reaching for the glass of water that they maid brought. He misses it by an inch, his fingers stroking against something leather. James’ eyes flicker to the nightstand, finding Belle’s copy of Her Handsome Hero laying on it. She had been reading it to their baby every night, little by little. James lifts the book, skimming through the pages and reliving the adventures of a seemingly ordinary man named Gideon sent on a quest to save the people he cares about. He isn’t the typical hero you read about in books. Gideon is a flawed man who struggles to move past his black and white view on the world. As he progresses, he shows great growth, with the help of not just the love of his soulmate, but a love for himself.

“Gideon,” James whispers.

Belle looks up, noticing the book. “Gideon.” She glances back down at their son. “Prince Gideon.”

James smiles. It’s the first name that actually sounds like one fit for his son. “Do we have a name, finally?”

Belle nods, a wolfish grin on her face. “Indeed we do. Gideon James.” She tilts her head. “Please?”

James laughs, pulling her closer. “Well, technically it’s my middle name too and it was my biological grandfather’s. Might as well keep up the tradition.”

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (4 months until the Dark Curse)

Gideon’s tiny pudgy hand smacks against Snow’s stomach. She lets out a giggle, gently showing him how to feel for the baby kicking inside of her. David stands beside her, that same bittersweet look upon his face. James is only a few feet away, watching it all. Belle’s got her beautiful blue eyes glued to their son. Lately, it always seems like she’s fighting off tears.

“Can I play with him now, Auntie Snow?” Gideon asks.

Snow pats his hand. “It’s a girl, Giddy. We’re naming her Emma, remember?”

Gideon innocently tilts his head. “Oh. Yeah. Can I play with Emma, please?” He bats the adorably long eyelashes that he inherited from his father.

“I’m sorry, sweetheart but she’s still in my tummy. As soon as he comes out, the two of you will play together lots.” Disappointment crosses Gideon’s face and Snow cups his cheeks. “I promise.” She pinches his left cheek and he half giggles/groans.

“Auntie Snowwww.”

James lets out a small laugh. David swoops in, tilting his nephew upside down and zooming him around the garden. Snow watches, her own face losing a bit of hope. Lately, it seems all of it is in short supply.

It’s a beautiful summer day, with all the flowers in bloom. They had a picnic lunch on the balcony, with Snow getting heartburn anytime she dared to touch a vegetable. The only time the baby settled was when she enjoyed the delicious chocolate eclairs that Belle had picked up from the local baker. They do this often, especially since Snow and David agreed to move back into the main palace. Growing up, David and James didn’t see their family often. Belle’s parents were both only children and Snow’s family grew distant after her mother’s passing. This castle was often filled with laughter, fun. Especially whenever Ruth, Eudora and Tiana came to visit. Ruth loved to spoil her grandson, going on and on about the excitement for her granddaughter. None of them mention the darkness that looms ahead.

David and Snow eloped a year after Gideon was born, waiting on the official ceremony for when Regina could no longer physically harm them. They thought the drama was long over. George lives in a neighboring kingdom. James was not heartless, he set him up with a home and some riches. Anything to keep him at bay and away from his grandkids. The Dark One had helped get something to make sure that Regina couldn’t kill any of them.

She found something greater than death. A curse, one that would rip them all from their loved ones and make them forget each other existed.

They turned to the fairies for help, but Blue said there was nothing to be done. At most, Geppetto could build a wardrobe that’d take two people. Snow and David would go through, raise Emma and find all of them. It’d be up to his niece, the one who was about the size of a banana, to save the kingdom. His niece should have to worry about diaper rash, favorite color and how many treats she can steal with the help of her big cousin. And yet fate has decided it’s on her and her alone to save the kingdom.

“She won’t be alone,” Blue said after David pointed all of that out. “She’ll have the two of you.”

Belle cuddled a sleeping Gideon on her lap, her eyes intently on him. James didn’t have to ask to know what she was thinking. No one knew what this strange land would bring, what it could possibly do to any of them. Gideon was only 3 years old. How could he survive without them being there? After all of James’ promises to be a good father, he felt like he was letting his son down.

Grasping his wife’s hand, he felt a pair of eyes on him. He connects with his twin brother, who’s fingers are interlaced with Snow’s. David and James roll their eyes whenever someone asks if they can feel each other’s pain or read the other one’s thoughts. It sounds so ridiculous. Outside being able to read David well after knowing him 28 years, James can never exactly tell what’s going on in his crazy brother’s head. Guilt flashed before David’s eyes.

“I’m giving up my spot,” he said. “Gideon should have it.”

James’ eyes widened. “David…”

“No. I’ll be fine, but we don’t know what the curse will do. We need to protect our children.” He looks at his sleeping nephew. “That includes Gideon.”

Snow nodded despite the tear falling down her face. “David’s right.” She scrubbed her face with the back of her palm, smearing a bit of her mascara. Snow reached across the table, taking Belle’s hand. “I will take care of him like he is my own. I will love him, protect him. I understand if you don’t trust me, but I’m more than willing.”

It was time for James and Belle to stare at one another. The thought of Gideon not knowing who they were was difficult to swallow, but at least in this new land, no one would age. He’d stay 3 years old until the curse broke. If he went off with Snow, there was no telling how long it’d be. The Dark One prophesized that the curse would break on Emma’s 28^th birthday, but with her parents by her side, she could manage to do it sooner. Still, could Gideon comprehend why they were doing this? What would it be like if in 28 years’ time, they were still barely 30 and their son was a grown man who grew up without them?

Gideon let out a tiny snore, shifting ever so slightly in his mother’s arms. James reached down to stroke his beautiful brown hair. His mind drifted to Ruth, who he’s grown closer to over the past three years. He’ll probably never consider her his mother, that spot is reserved for Serafina. And yet, they share a bond. They talk about things. Ruth had the courage to know that sending James away would be for the best. He deserved more than a life on a poverty-stricken farm. It would have been selfish to risk his death, just so Ruth could love on him a little more.

And isn’t it selfish of James to potentially harm their son, just so he could be a toddler when the curse broke? So James and Belle wouldn’t miss out on raising him?

“Okay,” James whispered.

David made his way around the table to hug his brother. James muttered his thanks, knowing it would never be enough. Looking over his brother’s shoulder, he could see the anger encroached on his wife’s face.

In the month since the meeting, Belle has barely met his eye. They talk when it comes to duties or their son, but that’s about it. She didn’t even yell at him for making the choice, she’s chosen the cold shoulder. And that hurts a hell of a lot worse.

James clears his throat and turns to Ruth, who’s pretending to not notice the tension as she makes more tea. “Could you make sure David doesn’t break Gideon?”

Ruth gives him a small smile. “Of course.” She pats him on the shoulder and kisses his cheek before heading over to her other son.

James turns to Belle. She stares at him for a moment, before storming out of the garden and out into the fields. James sighs, following behind her. He makes sure they’re too far from the garden to anyone to hear them before he speaks.

“You know, I’m supposed to be the dramatic one.”

Belle whips around, her blue dress moving furiously in the process. “And I thought we made choices as a team.”

“I didn’t exactly see you offering up your opinion!” James argues. He thinks back to her just sitting there, cuddling her son. For once, Belle truly had nothing to say.

“I was in shock! I found out that the only way to stop my baby from being cursed is to send him away, to lose 28 years with him!” Belle throws her hands in the air. “That takes more than a few moments to process.”

“It’s his best chance, Belle. If he goes with us under the curse, he’d end up with a different family or worse.” James bites his lip. “I cannot risk that.”

“And I can’t live with the idea of knowing I could never see my child again!”

James sighs. “Snow is going to help Emma find Storybrooke…”

“And what if she doesn’t, James?” Belle interrupts. “What if she can’t?”

“Belle…”

“No. I love Snow. I know that she would selflessly raise Gideon and raise her as his own. And it’s not even that, that bothers me. Because if a goblin killed us tomorrow, there is no one else I could picture raising him but Snow and David.”

James nods in agreement. It’s a talk they had not long after Gideon was born. He’s next in line for the throne and they want stable, good authority figures for him. Snow and David are the only ones they truly trust to properly raise their baby.

“I know that,” James whispers. “So why is this different.”

“Because,” Belle’s voice breaks. James tries to take her hand, but she pulls away. “No matter how hard Snow tries, there is a chance that she’ll fail. It won’t be through fault of her own, but we know nothing of this world. Or what if Emma grows up and doesn’t want to be the savior? That’s a lot to put on a kid.” James nods in agreement there. “I don’t care if Gideon grows up and I have to figure out a relationship with him in his 30s. I’ll do it. I’ll fight to show that I love him with everything in me.”

She lets out a deep breath, running her fingers through her hair.

“But I cannot handle the possibility that I will never see him again. That I’ll be cursed somewhere for all of eternity while he slowly forgets about me. And then one day, he’ll be gone and I’ll still…”

A squeak escapes Belle’s lips as she doubles over in tears. James gathers her into his arms and she sobs into his lapel. He rubs her back, letting his own tears fall. It’s nothing he hasn’t thought about. He trusts and loves Snow, but there’s so many what ifs. Sending him with his aunt is the right thing, it’s the only real option, but it comes with the reality that it might be the last time they ever see him. Snow will always tell him about them, but it’s not the same. They won’t know he’s out there or who he is. And there’s a chance that one day…Snow’s love will override their own.

“How can this be fate?” James mutters into Belle’s hair. “The Dark One and Blue keep prattling on about fate, destiny, how all of this was decided long before we were a thought…but how is it fate that we lose our son? That David doesn’t get to raise his daughter? Any of it.”

Belle shrugs against him. “I used to believe in that stuff. I thought it’s what lead me to you. And I still want to…but Gods, how are we supposed to have hope right now?”

“We’re not.” She looks up at him, her teary eyes confused. He gently wipes her tears with his thumb. “We don’t have to be okay with this, accept any of it. Either way, we are losing our child. My brother is losing his. It’s not fair, Belle. And we don’t have to pretend like everything is going to be fine.”

Belle collapses back into him and he hugs her tighter. Realistically, he wants to believe that some good will come from this. That Snow will find wherever they are in days. That in 20 years, Gideon and Emma won’t even know how much their parents worried about this situation.

He’s also been around the block a few too many times to really believe that.

“He needs to go,” Belle whispers. “I know he does. But how do we tell him?”

“I don’t know,” James says, honestly. “We have time to figure it out. Geppetto isn’t done with the wardrobe yet.” She pulls away from him, sniffling. “And in the meantime, maybe we’ll find another way.”

Belle nods, disbelief written across her face. “Yeah,” she says. “Maybe.”

George has never found much use in magic. Sure, there’s cures for diseases and times when weaponry just won’t work. At the end of the day, however, he’s a simple man. A sword can pierce someone’s gut faster than a potion can. The one he procured for Serafina took weeks to take effect. She grew weaker, dying a slow and painful death. It hadn’t been in the plan but if she had just followed along with raising their sons the right way, maybe he wouldn’t have had to stoop to it.

Yes, George has always been pretty against magic. But when he hears of a curse that will rip families apart and alter memories, he knows he needs to take the chance that was stolen from them.

It doesn’t take much to find the Blue Fairy. Repeating her name three times has her arrive to the small yard behind the shack his sons force him to live in now.

“Ah, the disgraced king,” Blue smirks. “What’s it like to live the life you forced on people when you squandered the kingdom’s riches?”

“I didn’t call you hear to mock me, fairy,” he growls. “I’ve heard whispers of a curse.”

“I’m not surprised. Regina has always loved the theatrics,” Blue rolls her eyes. “Everyone from here to Camelot knows about it.”

“I understand that it will rip families apart and no one will know who they truly are, their pasts…”

“Afraid your sons will forget what a horrible father you were?”

George clenches his fists. “I was not a horrible father. I made sure that they were strong, capable men. Worthy of fighting any battle.”

“And they were. Worth enough to defeat you.”

George thrusts his hand out, ready to squash her once and for all. Blue quickly poofs to the opposite side. “Can you shut up for five seconds and just let me talk?”

Blue gestures in front of her. “By all means.”

“If this is a land where no one can remember, then you can make my sons mine again. We can be a family and I’ll make sure that no stupid princess or bandit gets in the way.”

“It’s not as easy as that. Regina and The Dark One control who gets what ending.”

George frowns, taking in her smile. “But?”

“Just as every curse is built to be broken, it’s not exactly fool proof either. All magic has its caveats. There’s something I can give you that will make the boys yours under the curse. It won’t make them love you, but you’ll be a family. You can control them.”

“I don’t need them to love me,” George half-lies. No one has ever loved him. To his delusional father, he was just an heir to throne. Serafina had been an arranged marriage. And despite saving the twins from poverty, they acted like he was the worst person in the world. “I just need them to respect me again. And if they don't, I need a chance for my grandkids too."

Blue nods. "Well, there's a magical wardrobe that your children and their wives are using to help Gideon and the Savior escape. They think the wardrobe only takes two, but really it'd take up to 5."

George arches an eyebrow. "Why are you lying?"

"Because the Savior is fated to grow up alone. If she has help, she won't go through the pain necessary to break up the curse. That'll be effected if Gideon goes with her."

 He smiles. "So, what do you want for it?”

Blue doesn’t even have to think about it. “There’s a few spells I’ve been working on for years, but I can’t get ahold of one key ingredient.”

“You’re a fairy, just poof in.”

“It’s not that simple. I’m in need of rapunzel, it’s grown in a garden not far from here. The plant nearly went extinct years ago, but this sorceress had the last seed. She knew it was a key ingredient to many fairies, so she charmed the perimeter to keep us out.”

“And that’s all I need to do? Get you some leaves?”

“If you survive to tell the tale, then sure. I’ll get you the relic.”

George smirks. He’s survived countless battles in his youth, a father who attempted to sacrifice him because “the Gods told him to” and the poison that once ripped away his fertility, leaving him unable to produce an heir. He never lost a battle, got the upper hand on his father and made a deal with the Dark One to get the heir he so desperately needed.

He can handle a little lettuce. It’s worth regaining control of his boys.

Chapter Text

The Enchanted Forest (October 22^nd)

Thunder crackles outside the windows. The bell rings out overhead. Normally it’d single a new hour or a wedding. This time, James knows that it’s Grumpy. They went over the game plan for months. At first sight, he’d make sure everyone knew and could prepare, spend the last moments with their loved ones.

Belle cuddles Gideon tightly to her, pressing kisses to his forehead and whispering sweet nothings. James throws the final things into the rucksack he’s to give his sister-in-law. After research about the land without magic, they know that they’ll need a decent about of money to start over. He’s found the most valuable jewels, a good chunk of gold and rare books. There’s also some food that will tide them over until they can trade these things for whatever the currency. Diapers for Emma, special undergarments that Belle recommended for Snow after giving birth and some of Gideon’s favorite toys.

James looks out the cracked window. It’s still so far off, but he can see the purple smoke on the horizon. He clamps his eyes shut, cursing himself for not finding a solution. It’s been 8 months, there should’ve been something, anything to stop Regina. Snow and David built a nursery for Emma with the same hope. They tried reasoning with her, offering her all of their riches, even their kingdom. Snow must have drafted a million treaties, all returned in ash. She doesn’t act surprised; she knows her best. Regina doesn’t want money or power.

She wants revenge. And those who did nothing to her still have to pay for it.

James turns back to look at his wife. Her blue eyes are brave as ever as she showers their baby boy with kisses. He carefully places his sword into the holster, ready to fight off anyone who tries to stop him. James walks over to them, placing a hand on Belle’s arm.

“We don’t have to do this,” he whispers. “We can stay here, let the curse do it’s worse.” Belle looks up at him. “We’d be cursed but at least we’d be together.”

Belle shakes her head. “I want to, more than anything. But I know that’s selfish. We have no clue what this curse will do. According to Regina, we’ll all be separated. I love Snow, I trust her. She’s going to take great care of him.”

James bites his lip, running his fingers through Gideon’s dark hair. He hates that she’s right. “Okay,” he whispers simply.

Belle clears her throat, clearly trying to hold off tears. She adjusts her son so they’re looking each other in the eyes. “Gid,” a forced smile takes over her face. “You and Daddy are going to find Aunt Snow.”

“Does she have her baby?” Gideon asks. “Can I play with her?”

“Not yet,” James says. “But soon.”

“You and Auntie Snow are going to go away for a little while,” Belle says, her voice cracking a bit.

“Mama and Daddy can come,” Gideon says.

Belle bites her lip, stroking his cheek with his thumb. James places a hand on his son’s back. “I’m afraid not,” he whispers. “This is just for you and Auntie Snow.”

“But we’re going to see you real soon,” Belle says. “So, can you be my good big boy? Help Auntie Snow and be on your best behavior?”

Gideon nods. “Yes, Mama.”

“That’s my boy.”

She cuddles him closer so his face is in her neck. The tears fall down her face as thunder claps once more. James grasps her hand, his own eyes growing wet. There’s not much time left. Belle quickly wipes her tears and places Gideon into James’ arms. She turns to the shelf and pulls out the worn copy of Her Handsome Hero. Belle hands it to her son.

“You hold onto this until I can read it to you again, okay?”

“Okay. I love you, Mama.”

A single tear falls down her cheek. “I love you more, my sweet boy.” She gives him one last quick kiss before looking up at James. “James…”

“I know,” he whispers.

Once he gives Gideon to Snow, he doubts he’ll have time to get back to the study. Magic from the fairies will barricade her, protecting her from Regina’s guards. There’s so much he wants to tell her. So much left unsaid. He’ll potentially see her in this new land, but he won’t remember her. He won’t be able to help her. James fell so fast for this gorgeous woman and she’s about to slip from him

“You made me a better man,” James says. “No matter what happens, I want you to know that.”

Belle shakes her head. “You put in the work. That man was always there.” She kisses him and he savors it, it’s the last he’ll get for a while.

“I love you,” he murmurs into her lips.

Belle’s voice shatters. “I love you.” She pulls away, wiping furiously at her eyes with the back of her hand. “Now go.” He hesitates and she fixes him with a Look. “I’m serious, James, go.”

Gideon frowns. “Mama’s mad.”

James shakes his head. “No, she’s just worried. Say goodbye, Giddy.”

“Bye bye Mama.”

“Goodbye my sweet boy.”

James throws the rucksack over his shoulder and heads for the door, Gideon cuddled close in his arms. He stares at the wooden door for a moment, before looking back. Belle is quietly sobbing, hand over her mouth. She looks pitiful, tragic and all he wants to do is wrap her in his arms and never let go.

A clap of thunder sends him out the door. Racing up the stairs, he can hear Snow’s screams. Is it…no…it’s too early.

James is about to check on his brother and sister-in-law, when he loses his footing. Gideon flies from his arms, frozen midair. James collides against the wall, pain engulfing his back. The rucksack falls to the ground, jewels and other provisions spilling against the cold tile.

“Daddy!” Gideon cries out.

A swirl of blue pixie dust overtakes the hall. Blue appears besides George. James attempts to get up, his hand on his sword, but he can’t. The fairy snaps her fingers and Gideon falls gracefully into her arms.

“Gideon!” James cries.

A sick grin encroaches on George’s face. “Maybe if you hadn’t banished me, my son, we wouldn’t be in this situation.” He lets out a laugh, shaking his head. “My pathetic son couldn’t fight off the Evil Queen.”

James fights against the invisible magic restraints, ignoring his father’s taunts. “Give me back my baby!”

“See, I don’t think I will. You pushed me out, you turned David against me. When children misbehave, they must be punished. You’re a bit old for a spanking, so I have to be creative.”

James cries out, his eyes on Gideon. His son is sobbing, making grabby hands for James, the book still tucked against his chest.

“Daddy!” Gideon screams. “I want my daddy!”

“Shhh,” Blue soothes. “Don’t worry, you’re going to be fine. I’m taking you away from this terrible family.”

James growls. “Like hell you are.”

George ignores him, fixing Blue with a Look. “We had a deal. I secured you that ingredient, you got me this stupid relic.” He pulls a tiny ivory elephant statue from his pocket. “You said it’d give me my family back!”

Blue smirks. “All magic comes with a price, your majesty. Unlike the wardrobe, this magic is actually limited. You get your precious son with you, but your grandson,” she caresses Gideon’s cheek. “He’s mine.”

Another sparkle of blue pixie dust and they’re gone. James screams as the invisible binds lift from around him.

“Gideon!”

He hops up, ignoring the pain radiating through his body. Tears fall down his face. This can’t be happening. He vowed to always protect his son, to give him, his best chance. And now…he’s failed.

James starts to run to…he doesn’t even know. He needs to find them, get his son back. Before he can get far, George wraps him into his arms. James struggles against him. His father is not an affectionate man. Outside a few firm shoulder squeezes and the occasional kiss to the forehead at ceremonies, this is the most James has ever gotten for him. But this isn’t like the hugs Serafina gave him. The ones that smelt of flowers or old books. It isn’t soft, inviting. His father is practically choking him in his grasp. The cool ivory statue is icy against his neck.

“Shhh,” George croons. “It’s alright, Father’s here.”

He thinks of David, Snow, his baby niece that is going to eventually save them all. Are they all okay? What is going to happen?

Unknown to him, elsewhere in the castle, his twin brother is placing Emma into the wardrobe upon his wife’s urging. The idea that Emma wouldn’t be alone, she’d have Gideon to guide her back is enough for them. Both need to be protected from the curse.

Another plan failed.

Visons of Belle and Gideon dance before James’ eyes. Smoke breaks through a nearby window, engulfing the two. The last thing James can think of as the curse embraces them is Belle’s beautiful, intoxicating laugh.

It’s 28 years before he hears it again.

Chapter Text

“And Max, the king of all wild things, was lonely and wanted to be where someone loved him best of all.”
― Maurice Sendak, Where the Wild Things Are

Storybrooke, Maine (December 23^rd, 2011)

Snow falls furiously as James drags the heavy box from his trunk. He grunts, forcing it up higher. It’s another reminder he needs to get back into the gym, or at least start running again. Lacey offered to be his workout buddy, but it’s been so long and he doesn’t want to embarrass himself. He had to walk everywhere before getting a car, but nothing compares to a real workout. It used to be his solace until Albert humiliated him at a weight lifting competition in high school. His father just had to show him up, mocking his “weaker” son.

James quickly shakes the thought from his head as Mary Margaret walks over to him. She’s got a few boxes in her own arms, filled to the brim with Barbies still in boxes and footballs wrapped in cellophane. She told him about how she always donates gifts to the orphanage around the holidays. He had gotten triplicate of a lot of books, but especially the children’s selections. Regina approved him giving away some of the titles to the less fortunate children of Storybrooke.

Mary Margaret beams widely in spite of the heavy cardboard weighing her tiny body down. “Thank you for coming,” she says. “The kids will be so excited.”

“It’s the least I can do. I loved books growing up, was fortunate enough to have a dad that could buy me as many as my heart desired.” He frowns, shaking his head. “Every kid should have access to books. It’s partially why I wanted to open the library. I was hoping to talk to Mother Superior about getting all of the kids here library cards so they could come whenever they wanted.”

“That’s a great idea!” James nearly loses grip on the box and quickly recovers, pulling it closer to his chest. Mary Margaret laughs. “Let’s go inside before you break your arms.”

“I’m fine.”

“Yeah, sure, let’s go inside.” They head towards the doors and he leans his back against them, holding it open for her. “You’re still coming over on Christmas, right?”

“Yeah. Me and Lacey, is that okay?”

“Of course it is.”

A tall nun with her brunette hair pulled back into a bun approaches them. James recognizes her as Astrid, one of the kinder nuns. She’s always leading up the events that the church throws and actually smiles at everyone, unlike Mother Superior. Out of the corner of his eye, he can see Leroy performing some repairs on a lamp. Every few seconds the handyman looks back over at Astrid with a dreamy look on his face. A bit of pity fills James’ stomach. Everyone knows he has a crush on Astrid, but since she’s taken her vow, there’s nothing that can be done.

“You’re both here, great!” Astrid says, actually peppier than Mary Margaret. “The kids are so excited. Mary Margaret, I’ll take you to where our Santa is. He’s going to hand out all the toys to the boys and girls.”

“And the books?” James asks, his arms shaking beneath the weight.

Astrid’s high pitch giggle rings out. “Of course, Mr. Spencer. You can pass those out now. The kids are in the activity room, doing some holiday crafts.” She gestures to the left and then goes the opposite direction with Mary Margaret.

James heads to the activity room. Paper snowflakes dangle from the ceilings, an ugly wreath hung off the back wall. Outside that, the only signs of Christmas are the “Silent Night” playing from a record player and the children coloring in religious sheets with pictures of Mary and Joseph or the three wiseman. A few others are making more paper decorations, such as Christmas trees or stars. Some have chosen not to do art and are playing with toys that have seen better days.

Cars missing wheels and dolls with only one limb. A dollhouse is half-dented, with only the bathroom and kitchen playable.  James slowly settles the box on the floor, a little confused. Mary Margaret donates toys every year. He specifically remembers his father writing a check himself for the orphanage every year around Christmas (for the tax purposes, but regardless, he was donating to them). Mother Superior always went on and on about how sad it was that the children didn’t have families, but that they at least had the best of everything at the orphanage. The kids coloring are doing so with broken crayons and scrap paper that’s clearly been used for other projects. What do they do with the newer toys and money?

James clears his throat, but none of them look up from what they’re doing. The music is just a little too loud. He doesn’t even know what he’d say to them. Instead, he decides to hand out the books personally. He gives the older kids some Percy Jackson or Harry Potter, which makes them smile. One little girl nearly tackles him over in a hug when he hands her a copy of Ramona and Beezus. Eventually, they all congregate around the large box, going through the titles.

“You guys can take as many as you want,” he says. “There’s enough for everyone.”

That gets him some grins, but mostly they keep digging. A few kids aren’t entirely interested and James doesn’t push, reading isn’t for everyone. However, there’s one little boy that can’t be older than 4 years old. He stands towards the back of the crowd, tilting his head curiously. His hazel eyes light up as he tries to see what everyone is getting. He takes a step forward to grab something, but another kid will jump in front of him. James sees a bit of himself in the kid. David was the outgoing one, wanting to be liked by everyone. James didn’t want to ruffle any feathers, at least not as a kid.

He walks over to the little boy, kneeling down to his level. “Hey there. I’m James.”

The little boy shoves his thumb into his mouth and for a moment, James worried he’s scared him. Then his tiny, froggy voice comes out. “Gideon.”

James thinks of his well-loved copy of Her Handsome Hero on his shelf. “Gideon, eh? One of my favorite books has a character named Gideon.”

Gideon drops his thumb, smiling eagerly. “I have that book. It’s my favorite too!”

“Her Handsome Hero?” James asks skeptically. No one’s ever heard of that, he thinks it was his grandmother’s or something given how old it is. Gideon nods. “Wow, you have good taste.” He looks back behind him. Most of the kids have moved to the chairs or floor to read. “Seems like the crowd’s died down, wanna pick out a couple of books?”

“Yes, please.”

“Come with me.”

Gideon tucks his tiny hand into James’, making his heart warm. James pulls himself up and walks over to the box. He goes through it with Gideon, helping him pick out a Magic Treehouse book along with a copy of Where the Wild Things Are.

“Sister Astrid will read these to me, she’s teaching me,” Gideon says, hugging the two titles to his chest.

“She’s really nice, isn’t she?”

“Yeah, we look at my storybook and she’s trying to teach me how to read.”

James smiles, loving how into reading this kid is. “That’s cool.” He settles onto the floor with Gideon, who starts flipping through the Sendak book. “Are you excited for Christmas?”

Gideon shrugs. “I guess.”

“What sort of stuff do you do?”

“Go to church, eat dinner. We’re doin’ secret presents.”

“You mean Secret Santa?”

“Yeah. I got Amanda. I made her a picture of a farm ‘cause she likes cows.”

“I’m sure she’ll love it.” James gets a mischievous smile on his face. “I think Santa will be here soon. Is there anything you wanna ask him for?”

Gideon is quiet for a minute, his eyes intent on the last page of the story. James knows the book well. Despite being naughty and running away from home to play with monsters, when Max returns, he has a warm dinner waiting for him. It’s proof that his mother cares about him, was waiting for him, missed him. After his own mother’s death, James used to look for signs that she was still around. That she didn’t abandon him to be with his cruel father. He’d open his eyes, willing a plate of her freshly baked cookies to be on his nightstand…instead all he would find was his alarm clock.

“My mama gave me my storybook,” Gideon says. “She wrote in it. She loves me. She’s gonna come back for me. I think she just got lost comin’.”

James frowns, unsure of what to say. He knows most of the kids in the orphanage don’t have parents out there, they’ve passed on. Others were abandoned. Some were victims of abuse. He doesn’t think he’s ever heard of a child being reunited with their parents or even adopted come to think of it.

Gideon isn’t old enough to know that the world is so cruel yet. He doesn’t know that sometimes moms leave and they don’t come back, no matter how much they lie and say that they will. The truth is, parents lie all the time. They say they’ll always love you, that you’re everything to them. Then they turn around and scream at you for being a “worthless mistake”. Parents will say that they’re not going anywhere and then you get told that they got too sick to hold on. Brothers promise that they’ll never abandon you to be alone with your crazy father and then they do anyway.

James quickly shakes away that resentment. He’s not mad at David for doing what he needed to do to escape Albert, is he? David did what he had to. He got married, he was happy. He couldn’t constantly think about James’ happiness. And he had offered, numerous times, for James to live with him after he left Kathryn. James was just too scared to leave.

“Well, let’s hope she comes soon,” James says, his heart only half into it.

A cold voice bellows from the doorway. “Gideon!” The two snap their heads up and find Mother Superior standing there. “The other children have gathered in the main hall. There’s a surprise.” James looks around, realizing they’re the only ones left in the room.

“Yes, Mother Super.”

“Superior,” she enunciates. “Mother Superior.” James holds back an eyeroll. Gideon jumps to his feet, the Magic Tree House paperback slipping from his fingers. “What do we say to Mr. Spencer for our books?”

Gideon looks back at James. “Thank you.”

James places the dropped book on top of the other. “You’re welcome, pal.”

Gideon clutches both books to his chest as he scurries out of the room. James gathers himself up off the floor. There are a few books left, so he takes them out and settles them onto a nearby bookshelf which is scarce. A couple torn copies of A Hungry Caterpillar and the untouched Twilight Saga on a lower shelf, gathering dust.

Mother Superior circles in. James shifts uncomfortably. He grew up going to mass every Sunday with his father and brother. Mother Superior always gave off weird vibes and he avoided her at all cost.

“I um, have some other books,” he says. “Plus, I’m sure I could gather some donations like Mary Margaret did with the toys. The kids should have more to read.”

“Look at you, making little bookworms,” she replies, her voice still cold. “You’re far more generous than your father.”

James shifts at the comparison. “There should be more, shouldn’t there? I know Father donated a lot of money over the years.”

“That went to necessary repairs,” Mother Superior tells him, a hint of defense in her voice.

“I understand that, but Mary Margaret donates a ton of toys every year and yet…”

“Mr. Spencer,” she interrupts, a chill running up his spine. “I wouldn’t tell you how to run your library. Please do not tell me how to run my orphanage. I once more thank you for the books and I will see you at mass at Christmas services.”

She gives him a kind but firm Look. James looks her up and down, shaking his head.

“I won’t be attending,” he mutters, pushing past her.

Gideon’s little face remains in his head as he walks out the door. He’s come with his father to drop off the check in the past and has seen a few kids, but never him. Just a sweet little boy who loves books and thinks his mother is out there somewhere, lost like Max at sea. He deserves so much more than just a couple of books and a toy that’ll probably go missing in a few days. But what can James do?

He can visit more, that’s a start. Maybe he could start a story time or talk to Astrid about arranging field trips to the library once it’s open. He’s created a cool children’s section with chairs shaped like animals, a train table that runs by the shelves and even a dollhouse, better than the one there. He can’t save Gideon, let alone all of them, but he can give them a safe space.

As he opens the door, someone runs into him. James’ stomach drops as he nearly goes flying down the concrete steps until the rough hand grabs out, pulling him forward by his shoulder. James takes some deep breaths, running his fingers through his hair. He looks up at his hero, only to stumble back a bit.

Albert is still larger than life, even if he’s the same height as James. He wears a long tan jacket, a thick white envelope in hand. That fake smile is spread across his face.

“James.”

James debates running, his car is only a few feet away. He’s avoided Albert as best he can these past few weeks, going into the diner when he knows he won’t be there. Not going in the direction of the office, even if it means not eating at his favorite Chinese place. But James is tired of leaving. Despite what he may believe, Albert doesn’t own the town. James has a right to exist in peace.

“Father,” he replies, keeping his voice cool.

“What are you doing here?”

“Donating some books to the kids, I had a surplus.”

“Ah, yes, Mayor Mills told me about your little library project.” James bites his tongue. “It’s nice to see you putting your degree to use.”

“It’s nice to be able to.” He nods to the envelope. “Donation season?”

“You know me so well.”

James does. He knows that his father likes his coffee pitch black. He knows that he’ll win any case that comes across him. He knows that he will fight until he gets exactly what he wants. No one can beat Albert Spencer.

James has to wonder if that’s really true or has no one tried hard enough?

“I have to go,” James says, instead. “Lots to do before we open.”

“How long do you think this is going to last you, son?” Albert shakes his head. “You’re going to embarrass yourself. You’ve never been able to accomplish anything if I wasn’t around. Even back when you were in school, if it weren’t for all of my training, you would’ve remained a puny little boy.”

“I don’t think that’s how it went,” James finds himself saying. Albert cocks an eyebrow. “As I remember it, Coach did a great job training me. He put me on a good diet and exercise schedule. You were threatened by him, so you had to prove you could lift more. And I didn’t dare try to challenge you. I threw the competition.”

For some reason, he can’t remember doing this in a gym. They’re standing in a field with a mansion…no castle…in the background. They’re dressed in funny clothes…James blinks a few times and he’s back in the gym, wearing loose shorts and a Back to The Future t-shirt.

Albert’s face turns a light shade of red. “I think you’re misremembering, boy.”

“My memory is clear. You didn’t win Father, I just got tired of trying to challenge you.” He lets out a deep breath. “And I’m still tired. It’s not worth it anymore.”

James pushes back him, heading down the steps. Albert follows behind him.

“You’re going to fall on your face,” he says, his voice tense. He’s breaking, even if he won’t admit it. “You’ll come crawling back, needing my money.”

James whips back around. “I’ll live on the streets before I go back to you.”

Both of their breathing is heavy. Father and son are only inches apart, eyes wide. James isn’t sure who this is, certainly not the man he’s been for these past few years. It’s that voice he’s heard for years, the one he never allowed to get out. It’s done being pushed to the side.

“I’m done being stressed that the next thing I do will set you off,” James continues. “Done stress eating bagels in the supply closet. Done hiding razors on myself in case I need to…”

He trails off, his eyes going down to his own jacket. Currently, it protects him from the fierce snow. It also hides the deep scars on his arms. He hasn’t cut since shortly after George found out about Lacey. He was so cold, so unfeeling. James just had to feel something, anything.

Even if it was pain.

Albert’s eyes are filled with curiosity, but James just shakes his head. “I’m done with you.”

“It’s Christmas, James. Surely you won’t go without seeing me around the holidays.”

James bites his lip. “It’s the 23^rd, Father. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Forgive me if I don’t try to give you a gift you’ll just exchange because you hate.”

James gets into his car, sending a quick text to Mary Margaret apologizing for leaving so soon. He pulls away from the curb, not looking back at his dumbstruck father. James continues to drive until he’s far past the orphanage, his father, the fight. His stomach hitches and pulls to the side of the road, pushing open the door. He leans outside of it, letting the contents empty. Tears sting his eyes as his entire body shakes.

James stares at the mess on the ground, absorbing into the snow. He allows the cold winter air to pierce his skin and turn it pink. A part of him wants to turn around and apologize, beg for forgiveness. Tell his father that he’s been crazy. Who talks to their father like that? Especially one who’s done everything for…

“This is what he wants,” James mutters, pulling his legs back into the car. He punches the wheel, grunting.

He wants to be in James’ head. He wants the guilt to eat him alive and be enough to come back.

James’ phone vibrates. He glances down and finds a text from Lacey.

Are you done at the orphanage? I just finished at work and we had extra of those fries you love. Can I come over?

A few months ago, James’ whole world was George. He had no one to escape to. His nearly frozen fingers manage to type a response.

Of course, you don’t need to ask. Use your key, I’ll be there in a bit.

James isn’t alone anymore. He’s not going back to his father, to the lifestyle that drove him to mutilate himself. That healing scar on his arm will be the last.

At least that’s what he tells himself as he drives back to his apartment.

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (December 25^th, 2011)

Twinkly lights are strung across every inch of the loft’s walls. An oversized Christmas tree scrapes the top of the ceiling, decorated in silver and cranberry balls. Trays of antipasti, chicken wings, fruit, veggies, pigs in a blanket and scallops wrapped with bacon are strewn across one of the card tables David set up. Another has a collection of wine, spirits, juice and sodas. The final already has the desserts out including chocolate cherry bombs and the traditional Christmas sugar cookies. A ham and turkey bakes in the oven, a lasagna cooling on the counter top. They’re less than a dozen people, misfits with no families to go to. David and Mary Margaret stand by the tree, exchanging kisses every so often beneath the mistletoe. Ashley Boyd has come with her boyfriend Thomas, their newborn daughter in tow. James isn’t the only one that’s blown off his father, Thomas no longer will have anything to do with his. Leroy is in attendance and he mentioned Astrid will come once mass is over. They’re not dating, they can’t of course. But who says they can’t be friends?

James’ eyes lock with Lacey who happens to be talking to Leroy at the moment. A turtleneck long sleeved red and blue plaid dress covers the hickeys he put on her neck the night before. She spent this morning with her father before he stumbled off to Aesop’s as she predicted. The two met up at his place, eating omelets he whipped up and exchanging gifts. She gave him a cozy new sweater and a copy of Dracula, one of the few classics that he hadn’t read. In return, he presented her with David Bowie and Van Halen vinyls, along with a gift certificate to the shoe store in town as she had complained her heels were wearing out. He attempted to pick one himself but the height of the shoe and color were so daunting. James imagines he looked flustered and confused, because the owner told him they offered gift certificates. He jumped on that quickly. Lacey said she loved her presents and brought the Bowie vinyl to Mary Margaret’s so they could play it.

Another gift burns a hole in his pocket. He wanted to give it to her at his place but by the time they finished with their other presents they had to get going to Mary Margaret and David’s. It’s not something he can necessarily give publicly, especially if she turns him down. He certainly wouldn’t blame her. They’ve only officially been together for a few weeks. Even if it does feel like he’s known her forever, she has every right to be weirded out by this.

Emma slides up beside him, a plate of mostly desserts in hand. “I think I’m the only single one here.”

“There’s Leroy,” James points out.

She rolls her eyes. “Everyone with a brain can tell he has a crush on Astrid. She may be a nun but I’m pretty sure you can undo that.”

“Can you?”

“The Sound of Music made it seem that way.”

James chuckles, taking a sip of his Sprite. “I didn’t take you for a musical girl.”

“I’m not, but one of my many foster mothers was obsessed. The Sound of Music, Grease, Hairspray-the original, she had them all on VHS. I had Singing in the Rain stuck in my head for years every time it poured.”

James leans against the wall. “How long did you spend in the system?”

“Until I was 16 and ran away.” She shrugs, the smirk leaving her face since the first time he met her. “Never had a family, a real true family, until I came here. If you can even call this that.”

“We can create our own families, Emma,” James says, gently. He looks over at his brother. It’s the first Christmas they’ve shared together in a really long time.

“I keep offering to move out, give them their space but they won’t hear of it. They’re so nice and they just…care? It’s weird.” Emma pops a chocolate covered pretzel into her mouth. “They’re my age but sometimes I wonder if Henry…” She trails off, shaking her head. “No, he’s just a dumb kid.”

James gives her a sympathetic smile. He hasn’t read the book that Henry has run around town flaunting like a first edition of Faulkner, but he knows the gist of the stories in it. They’re not as bright and happy as the Disney renditions, though not as dark as Grimm. Belle from Beauty and the Beast ends up with a dashing prince who was never really a beast, just troubled and quite the ladies’ man. Henry claims that’s James and Lacey. It’s nice to think about but at the end of the day, it’s just that. A story. He’s not a fairytale prince that slayed dragons, he’s a nerdy cowardly librarian that up until a few weeks let his father walk all over him.

“I wouldn’t say dumb,” James says. “Just… a kid. I think we all believed some stupid stuff when we were that age.”

“True but I also worry about getting his hopes up. I used to imagine my parents would show up with this great explanation for why they dumped me in a system that didn’t give a damn about me. That they’d apologize and sweep me away from it. All I got was a skinny file that stated what I already knew: they abandoned me.” Emma sighs. “I get he’s depressed and who wouldn’t be with Regina for a mother but I feel all these fairytales are going to do is lead to false hope that breaks his heart.”

“As someone who had a shitty dad, stories, especially fairytales are a good escape. I couldn’t change my situation but for a few minutes I could pretend I was in Narnia with talking lions.” James flashes her a small smile. “And for what it’s worth, Regina wanted to open up the library for Henry.”

Emma frowns. “Really?”

“Yeah, she wants him to be happy. I know she acts like she doesn’t care Emma, but I think she’s trying. They’re going through a rough time, they used to seem like a happy, regular mother and son. Trust me, I know shitty parents. Regina doesn’t seem to be one of them.”

Emma gnaws on the bottom of her lip. “Thanks, James. I know I shouldn’t care but…”

“You gave birth to him and then made the extremely hard choice to give him up. Of course you worry. I probably would too if I had a kid.”

She nods, the corners of her lips slowly turning up. “Thanks. I don’t know why I just exploded all over you. Maybe because you look exactly liked David.”

James chuckles. “Yeah, well I’m a lot cooler than my baby brother.”

“For God’s sakes, Jamie,” David appears behind Emma. “You’re only 10 minutes older.”

James narrows his eyes. “10 glorious minutes where I didn’t have to deal with your whining, Davey.”

“Is this what having siblings is like?” Emma pipes up. “Because if so, I’m good.”

David and James laugh, the former throwing his arm around her. “Come help me check on the food, I’ll sneak you some lasagna.”

Emma’s eyes light up. “David, you’re the best.”

James smiles after the two of them. Emma is the same age as all of them. She’s strong, career driven and smart, but at times it almost feels like she’s the baby of the group. It’s nice to see her have Mary Margaret and David as her chosen family. And maybe he falls into that category too.

A pair of arms snake around his waist. He looks down at Lacey, stroking her cheek. She went light on the makeup that afternoon and her natural beauty shines through. It’s the first time he’s seen her without all the eyeliner and dark lipstick. He loves both sides of her, including what stems from within.

Gods, he loves her.

“Hey handsome,” she whispers.

“Hey beautiful.”

James pecks her lips for a quick kiss but she slides her tongue into his mouth. He deepens it for a moment, one of her hands traveling down to cup his khaki covered ass. James lets a tiny moan vibrate into her mouth as she grabs it.

“There are people around,” he mumbles into her mouth.

Lacey rolls her eyes, but moves back a bit, her hand remaining on his butt. “None of them are paying attention. Emma and David are in the kitchen, Ashley and Thomas took the baby upstairs to eat and I think Leroy is helping Mary Margaret with a tree emergency.”

“So, we could sneak away.”

“Ideally. Where should we go?”

“I know the loft has a fire escape.”

James laces his fingers through hers and leads her up the stairs, grabbing their jackets on the way. Thomas is cutely shielding Ashley as she cuddles the baby close to her. The entire loft is open concept with the only closed off room being the bath. James gives him a small nod before pulling Lacey through the entrance to the fire escape.

Snow softly falls onto the red metal and streets below. Main Street is lit up for the holiday, with all the shops closed. Lacey finishes the last buttons on her peacoat, leaning against the railing. A numbness takes over James’ fingers but he doesn’t mind. It’s peaceful, quiet, the cheesy Christmas music far behind them.

“Having a good day?” James asks.

Lacey nods. “I thought I’d miss the diner and the regulars but it’s nice to have people to celebrate with, ya know?”

“I get it. We didn’t do much outside going to mass and exchanging gifts that my father would inevitably return come Boxing Day.” James rolls his eyes. “You know this is the first Christmas I’ve spent with David since he moved out.”

“Wow.” Lacey shakes her head. “That’s too long.”

“I was mad at him for a while, ya know? We always agreed we’d face Dad together.  He promised it was the two of us against him. Then he got the job and an apartment, Kathryn. And so, he left me alone.” James sighs. “Took me a long time to realize I was the one that chose to stay. He had no obligation to.”

“Your father manipulated you,” she says. “He made you think all you had was him. It’s not your fault that it took you so long, James.”

“I know that, rationally. But at the same time, I kick myself for not trying harder to leave.”

“Your father is abusive.” The words hit him like a freight train, but he doesn’t argue. “It’s hard to leave your abuser, especially when you have no recourse.”

“Yeah,” he whispers. “Which is why…I want to help you.”

Lacey tilts her head. He digs through his jean pocket and pulls out a tiny box wrapped in Disney Christmas paper.

“James, we already exchanged gifts.”

“This isn’t something I spent a lot of money on, I promise.”

She accepts the box and quickly peels off the paper, the wind forcing it onto the streets below. Lacey lifts the lid and removes the purple, green and gold turntable keychain. A tiny heart sits in the middle of the vinyl. Another smaller charm with an “L” hangs off a second chain, by a key.

“This is the key you gave me for your place,” Lacey says, confused. “Your present to me is stealing my key?”

James laughs. “I mean, I added the keychain.”

“Which is beautiful, but…”

“I want you to move in with me,” James blurts out. Lacey raises an eyebrow. “I know we’ve barely been together a few weeks and even without that, I’ve only known you a couple of months. This isn’t just about your father, though. I love you, Lacey.” She softly smiles. “For so long, I’ve been alone. And I know I don’t have much to offer you. The apartment is definitely nothing special, but maybe together…we could make it a home.”

Lacey swings the keychain around her pinky and James’ heartbeat quickens.

“I understand if you can’t or you don’t want to…I just thought there was no harm in asking so…”

“James.” He stops talking. She walks closer, reaching into her own pocket. She hooks the key onto the ring beside the ones she has for her father’s house and car. “Yes.”

James expels a breath. “Yes?”

She smiles wider. “Yes, I want to live with you.”

He sweeps her up into his arms, laying another kiss to her. She laughs beneath it before deepening her embrace. His forehead rests against hers, keeping her body within his grasp as snow piles on top of them.

“I love you, Lacey.”

“I love you too,” she whispers.

A bell rings, signaling the end of 3 o’clock mass. George rises to his feet, wishing well to those at the church around him just as he has every Christmas for the past 28 years. Some things became monotonous as time went on, like his son bringing him the same damn thing every day until Emma Swan-his granddaughter-returned to town. Despite being awake, he lives with the memories of both men. The feared lawyer who’s never lost a case collides against the stern but respected king that had both boys turn against him. He’s not sure why he’s awake when it seems so few others are. Seems like a blessing afforded to those who truly deserve it.

His eyes fall against the nuns, shaking hands and giving prayers to those who ask. The head, Mother Superior-the Blue Fairy-shares kind smiles and hugs. As if she didn’t completely destroy his plan. They had a deal and she went back on it. He was supposed to have his sons and grandson, keep them away from the dreaded women that turned them against him. Instead, he had his boys but they both disappeared too. Both are back in the arms of those women, ones who were never good enough to begin with. Snow, a disgraced princess who can’t even rule without an evil sorceress casting a curse. Belle had better training but it’s clear she expects to equally rule alongside his son. Serafina once had similar ambitions until George corrected her. There’s not room for a strong woman at the top. If they ruled the kingdom, there would be nothing but anarchy.

The curse will break soon. With his granddaughter in town, there’s no doubting that. And before it does, he needs to make sure that neither of his boys escape him again. He must get rid of Snow and Belle once and for all.

George joins the line of partitioners, giving forced smiles to the other nuns. Astrid keeps checking her watch, as if she other places to be than church on this Holy day. George finally makes it to Blue. A smile that doesn’t match her eyes forms on her narrow face.

“Peace be with you, Mr. Spencer,” she says in a fake bubbly voice.

“And also with you.”

“Such a shame to see you alone this year. First David stopped coming, then James.” She tsks. “It’s sad when we cannot keep a good hold of our flock.”

“Don’t worry, James will be back at mass before you know, it David too.”

“Will they now?” Blue frowns. “I thought they spent most of their time with their girlfriends. What are their names? Belle and Snow?” She shakes her head. “I’m sorry, Lacey and Mary Margaret.”

George’s nostrils flare as Blue’s smile only grows. She turns to Astrid and informs her that she has to help George back to his car, making him sound like the old man he denies that he is. Blue snakes her arm through George’s and carefully guides him out of the church.

“You’re awake,” he mutters.

The smile remains on her face. “People are listening.”

George smiles at those who pass, waiting until they make it out to his Cadillac. She looks around before roughly letting him fall against the door. George straightens himself, brushing off his coat.

“When?” he asks.

“Since Emma came into town,” she replies. “Strangest thing, guess I heard her name enough as I pretended to help your sons stop Regina.”

“You promised me my family,” George growls. “You said if I got you that rapunzel, my boys would return to me.”

“And you got your boys. It’s not my fault that even in a new land you’re such a shitty father that they want to run from you.”

George’s hand flies up only for it to lower again as the people begin to flood from the church. “You know I meant Gideon.”

“That’s the thing about magic.” Blue shrugs. “You’ve got to be specific.”

“What good does he do to me in some orphanage, away from my control? Especially if James has no memory of him?”

“Oh, but that all leads into how you can get him back. Did you know that on the paperwork for Gideon, the mother signed away her rights but the father’s is blank.  And wouldn’t you know, some stupid judge forgot to file or look for him.”

George slowly smiles. “So, he could still be claimed.”

“Not only that, I’ve come across some magic. It’s small, not enough to break the curse…but it’ll add to James’ cursed memories. As far as he knows right now, the first time he and Lacey met was after Emma came to town…perhaps he needs a little reminder of a drunken night a few years ago. And isn’t it a shame that the girl he loves so much never bothered to try to find him?”

A cackle escapes George’s lips and Blue’s smile widens.

“He’ll leave her, for good.”

“And then we can work with Maurice on how to make sure that slutty wench is out of this town for good. So even when the curse breaks…”

“James will be mine.”

“See, all you needed is a little patience,” Blue says.

George nods. “But what about David?”

“Once the curse is broken, he’ll have to deal with the trauma of his poor wittle girl growing up in the evil foster system. A choice that only happened because his wife insisted he put her in the wardrobe for her own safety. Do you really think they can survive that?”

George’s hands clasp together as the snow begins to fall once more.

“God bless us,” he mumbles gleefully. “Everyone.”

Lacey's Dress and keychain:

(x)

(x)

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (January 10^th, 2012)

For the first time in Heaven knows how long, James flips the sign on the library to read OPEN. Lacey slips her hand into his and gives him a reassuring smile. Butterflies have taken over his heart, stomach and legs. Without her, he’s unsure if he’d remain standing. After a month of renovations and organizing paired with blood, sweat and tears, the library is ready for the public.

Computers sit in a circle by the VHS section. The fiction is on left side, with non-fiction, biographies and cook books on the right. In the very back is the children’s area with a beautiful mural of different children’s book characters from Clifford to Peter Pan, Madeline, The Hungry Caterpillar and of course, Where the Wild Things Are. The desk in that area is shaped like a boat with a life preserver reading “S.S Librarian”. Overstuffed arm chairs are scattered about the library alongside long study tables. Out back is a gorgeous garden that when spring hits will have roses, tulips and other sweet-smelling flowers. James has some patio furniture on order so once springtime comes, the readers can sit outside and enjoy.

After being in nothing but a t-shirt and jeans for weeks, he’s returned to the formal look he’s used to from work: a white button down paired with a bow time covered in books that David gave him for Christmas, along with khakis and some loafers that Lacey helped him pick out. Her chestnut hair is pulled back in ponytail, wearing a long-sleeved burgundy dress. Lacey’s favorite choker sits tightly on her neck and a pair of pearl earrings that once belonged to her mother sit delicately on her ears. Once again, she’s kept her makeup light. She’s done a lot more of that lately. The tight skirts and crop tops are becoming a thing of the past. She’s barely touched her eyeliner and drifted to softer shades of lipsticks. A new side of her, one he’ll welcome with open arms.

“Do you think we got enough food?” James asks. “Or what if we run out of coffee?”

“Then I’ll run to Granny’s and get more.”

James nods, shifting from one foot to the other. “But what if no one shows up? I mean, we haven’t had a library in who knows how long, people seemed content with it. God, this is going to fail…”

“James.” Lacey pulls away and stands before him, moving her hands to his shoulders. “It’s going to be great. The whole town has buzzed with excitement since Sidney reported you were reopening in the paper. Everyone’s looked forward to this.” James frowns, unsure. “No matter what, you made this happen. You’re not a failure.” She pecks his lips. “You made your dream a reality.”

James tries to fight it but an easy smile comes across his lips. “Thanks,” he mutters. “For the pep talk and helping me with all this. I know you’ve been busy with work…”

“There’s nowhere I’d rather be.” She looks him up and down. “Your tie’s crooked.” Lacey hooks her fingers onto it and straightens. “There.” She pats his freshly shaven cheek. “Now you’re perfect.”

“Just trying to keep up with you, baby.”

Lacey grins and he leans down, kissing her. The door creaks open.

“Geez, Jamie. You want to scare people away with all that saliva?”

James pulls away, rolling his eyes. David holds the door for Emma and Mary Margaret. He kisses each of them on the cheek before smacking David upside the head. “I didn’t think anyone was coming yet.”

“There’s practically a mob making their way down,” Emma says, shrugging off her coat and throwing it onto the rack. “I’d say you’ll be ready for business in no time.”

Sure enough, Kathryn and Jim make their way in next, followed by Ashley Boyd and her daughter. Little by little, everyone trickles inside, pouring over all the sections. The butterflies slowly dissipate in James’ stomach as Lacey constructs a line for those to sign up for library cards. That takes up most of the first few hours, helping everyone fill out paperwork and distributing the little pieces of plastic with a picture of the clock tower on the front. The line has nearly died down when Henry approaches his desk. James smiles.

“One library card please,” Henry says.

James nods and pulls out an application, placing it in front of him. Henry happily gets to work, filling it out. “Excited?”

Henry nods. “I’ve wanted this library to reopen for so long. Do you have any superhero stuff?”

“I do, and I’ll be getting new comics in weekly.”

Henry beams brightly. James spots Regina coming up behind her son, placing a hand on his shoulder. Henry actually smiles at her before turning back to the form. James does a double take, unsure if those are really tears in the mayor’s eyes.

He thinks he hears her whisper, “Thank you, James”, but cannot be sure. “Pardon?” he asks.

She dabs at her eyes, quickly regaining the regal composure she usually carries. “This isn’t a failure. You did well.”

James chuckles, accepting the form from Henry and imputing the information into the computer. “I had a lot of help. Thank you for expanding the budget a few times to allow it to succeed.’

“This is important for the residents, especially the kids. Henry has always loved books.” Henry rolls his eyes, slightly blushing but the smile remains on his face. “Childhood literacy is so important.”

“I agree. I want to start a drive for the kids at the orphanage, their supply is lacking.”

Regina’s eyebrows knit together in confusion. “Really? I give Mother Superior a budget for books there.”

“Yeah, well,” James shakes his head, not wanting to depress himself on such a happy day. “Doesn’t seem like they use it on that.” A sticker prints and he presses against the back of Henry’s card before handing it to him. “There you go, you’re now a card-carrying member. The graphic novels and comics are to the left of the boat desk back there.”

Henry starts taking off until his mother coughs. The young boy shouts a thank you before running off to the back. James chuckles, turning back to Regina. She’s smiling proudly.

“And for you, Madam Mayor?” James holds up a form. “Would you like to sign up?”

“I have a feeling we’ll be spending a lot of our time here.”

As Regina fills it out and James looks around the library. Everyone is looking through media, adding to piles. David’s even taken out one of the baskets James thought to order, so people could pick out multiple books at once. Mary Margaret follows with her own two reusable tote bags, filled to the brim with books. Lacey is helping Nicholas and Ava with the computers, showing them fun games. James wishes there was the budget for him to hire an assistant. If things remain this busy, he’ll need one. Regina already told him they need to wait a month to see how things take off, then they’ll discuss expanding the staff.

The rest of the day goes according to plan. Everyone has fun, even if they decide not to check out books. James and Lacey are so busy helping everyone out, they completely forget about lunch. By the time James flips the sign to closed at six o’clock, he’s famished.

“We need food,” he tells Lacey.

“In all the excitement of preparing for today, I don’t think we went to the store this week.”

James racks his brain. “I think there’s some stale Chinese leftovers. That’s about it.”

Lacey laughs. “How about I pick up Granny’s? My treat.”

“Lace, you helped me all day. Let me buy you dinner.”

“It’s my turn to buy,” she argues.

“Screw turns.” He digs his wallet from his pocket and tosses her his debit card. She catches it with an eye roll. “Let me be the dashing gentleman for once.”

Lacey chuckles, shaking her head. “You’re too much.” She pecks his lips. “Club sandwich with fries?”

“And a Sprite?”

“Of course. I’ll be right back. You sit down and actually relax.”

James watches her go, a smile remaining on his face. He couldn’t have gotten through the insanity of today without her. He’s still not sure how he will on Monday when she has to go back to work. Hopefully he can show Regina he needs an assistant soon.

Despite Lacey’s demands that he take it easy, the reminder of books he still needs to sort through hits his brain like a freight train. James makes his way into the back, grabbing a beer David left for him. He settles onto the floor with the piles of books. Most are duplicates of duplicates and he files them under donation. A few have seen better days, so James files them for projects David says he can use them for.

James places a shredded copy of Pride and the Prejudice into the art pile and spots Her Handsome Hero. He ordered a few copies already for the library and wasn’t expecting anymore. This one is newer, perhaps from a different printing. He lifts the hardcover book into his hands, a volt of electricity flowing through his body as his mind fogs.

A lot of alcohol. There’s a pyramid of beers, were all of those his? He pushes himself up from the barstool, stumbling a bit. James digs out his phone and notices some missed texts from George. David will remain in his coma for now, the doctors don’t see him waking up anytime soon. James scoffs, shoving back into his pocket.

“Fucking asshole keeps abandoning me,” he mumbles.

James only takes a few steps forward before bumping into someone and hearing a bloody hell. Her fierce eyes snap up at him, Jack Daniels staining her thin white top and showing off a red bra.

“Watch where you’re going, glasses.”

“S…sorry,” James slurs. “Lemme buy you another.”

She doesn’t argue. The two sit at the bar, ordering more drinks and chatting aimlessly until Keith throws them out. James throws an arm around the woman, fumbling with her out of the bar.

“’m James.”

“Lacey.”

A blur of kisses, her bra flung at the window. His boxers on the dash. The pain as they enter into each other with no warm up or lubrication. And still, neither stop. He doesn’t think of a condom or protection, he simply cums into the woman he met not 10 minutes ago.

The book falls from his grasp. The first time James saw Lacey was on his way home from visiting David. They officially met at Granny’s. At least, that’s what his mind told him before.

How could he forget a one-night stand in the back of her Jag?

James’ head pounds like a jackhammer to the cement as he leans down to grab the book. His fingertips brush against a piece of folded paper. He picks it up, flipping it open. James blinks his eyes a few times to get rid of the swarming black dots. His vison slowly focuses on the small black print. He fumbles to grab hold of his glasses and force them onto his face, allowing him to see clearly.

GENERAL CONSENT TO TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS AND ADOTPION

“Huh?” James makes out as he scans the document, realizing Lacey’s handwriting resides on the blank lines.

My name is Alessia Collette French. I reside at 126 Lumiere Avenue, Storybrooke ME. I am Male/Female person and my birthdate is November 22^nd, 1983. I acknowledge that each of the following statements are true to my knowledge:

The child Gideon James French was born on November 27^th, 2008 in Storybrooke, ME.

My relationship to the child is: I am the MOTHER/FATHER.

James fingers tremble as he flips to the second page of the document. Belle has a child? One she gave up for adoption 3 years ago? That’s certainly her handwriting, but…no. 3 years ago, they…no, just no.

The world drops out below him when he reaches the second page. It’s all still in Lacey’s handwriting but unlike the first page, doesn’t have her signature. In fact, that line is the only one blank.

My name is Albert James Spencer. I reside at 3 Peach Tree Lane. I am Male/Female person and my birthdate is May 26^th, 1983. I acknowledge that each of the following statements are true to my knowledge:

The child Gideon James French was born on November 27^th, 2008 in Storybrooke, ME.

My relationship to the child is: I am the MOTHER/FATHER.

Lacey is happy to find the library empty when she walks through the service entrance. James has been killing himself over the past few weeks trying to get this open. He needs to relax. She walks up the steps to the apartment, balancing the bag with their food. After today, she’ll devour those wings in no time.

“Hey babe,” she calls out across the apartment as the key falls into the dish. James sits at the kitchen table, staring down at the something. “They didn’t have Sprite so I got you an ice tea. Hope that’s okay.”

No answer. Lacey walks closer, setting the food and drinks down. She gets a better look at his face. A frown etches against it, his eyes drooped and eyebrows knit together. He’s got such a tight grip on the paperwork in his hand, his knuckles have grown white.

“Baby.” She touches his shoulder and he jerks away so fast, Lacey nearly gets whiplash. Lacey drops beside him. “James.” He doesn’t look up at her. “James, c’mon, what’s wrong?”

Wordlessly, he thrusts the paperwork into her hands.

James stares at the cracks in the wooden table, missing the way Lacey’s eyes glaze over in a similar fashion to his own. A small gasp escapes her lips, finally causing him to look up. She’s stuck on page one, tears pricking her eyes.

“I was going to tell you about this,” she whispers. “I just…I didn’t want you to judge me. I was in a dark place and my father…he said I couldn’t keep him…”

“You think I’d care if you gave up a child?” His voice came out hoarse, raspy. “We all have pasts, Alessia.” She cringes at the full name he knows she hates. “Look at page two.”

Lacey flips the page and he takes another swig of his beer. Her mouth drops open. “Wait…”

“Yup.” Another sip burns his throat. “Something you wanna tell me?”

“James, no.” Her wide blue eyes meet his own. “I didn’t…I mean…I just remembered we…but I didn’t know that you were the father! It’s why my dad made me give Gideon up. He said that the child would be a disgrace.”

If she had just been honest, maybe it wouldn’t hurt as much. Maybe James could forgive her. He sat there waiting for an excuse, any, and that’s the best she could come up with? That she didn’t know?

His voice raises before he can help it. “That’s your fucking handwriting!” James jams his finger onto the page. “My full name, Albert’s fucking address, everything! You knew how to find me!”

“No!” Lacey cries out, tears pooling her eyes. The rage building within James won’t let him feel for her. “James, I swear! All I could remember was that it was some stupid hookup.” He scoffs and she quickly back peddles. “I mean, I couldn’t remember it was you!”

“Then how do you explain this?”

“I…I don’t know!” He gets up from the table, crossing to the refrigerator to get another beer. Her chair bangs against the table. “I’m serious! I was put on some serious drugs when I was in labor, maybe I just…”

James slams the door, the condensation of the beer freezing his palm. “Bullshit! You knew! The question is why you wouldn’t tell me that I have a child!”

“I didn’t know! Jesus Christ, why can’t you believe me?”

“Why shouldn’t I? Is that your handwriting?”

“Well…yes.”

“Then, what?”

“I don’t know!” Lacey throws her hands in the air. “I really don’t! There has to be some explanation but I never lied to you, James. I swear!”

“You didn’t even tell me that you had a kid and I’m supposed to believe that?”

“I was scared! That’s one of the most shameful parts of my life!” Tears stream down her face and James has to hold back his own, the rage doing a pretty good job of keeping them at bay. “I never wanted to give him up but my dad told me that it’d be for the best! That he’d find him a good family!”

“He’s not with a good fucking family!”

Lacey frowns. “Of course he is!”

“No, he’s not.” James reaches down into the book and pulls out the polaroid that was with the paperwork. “This kid, I met him when I donated books at the orphanage. He’s been there for years, waiting for his parents to come back for him!”

With shaky hands, Lacey accepts the picture. A small sob escapes her lips. James shakes his head. Not only did she have his son without telling him, she just tossed him away without asking if he wanted him.

“You abandoned my son!” James cries out.

“I didn’t know he was yours!”

“Stop lying!”

“God, James, I’m not!” Lacey slams the picture down. “I didn’t know! Do you want me to say it? There were a ton of guys at the time. I was drinking, doing drugs. Most nights I woke up in strange places with my clothes off. Does that sound like a good way to raise a child?”

“But you didn’t even give me the option! I had a job!”

“You had a father telling you what to do. Maybe my self-conscious knew it.” Lacey sucks back a deep breath, the sadness escaping her eyes and anger replacing it. “Maybe I knew I didn’t want a cowardly Daddy’s Boy who allows his father to call the shots to raise my son! God forbid he turn into you!”

James gasps. She’s telling him he’s screwed up? He storms up, his face inches from hers.

“How the hell do I even know he’s mine? Could be any of your numerous bar conquests.” James forces out a laugh. “Maybe it’s Keith’s.”

Lacey’s nostrils flare. “Fuck you, James.”

“Back atchya.”

They glower into one another eyes. Deep in James’ heart, something tells him that this is wrong. There has to be more of an explanation. This isn’t them. They don’t fight. They don’t lie or taunt one another. What the hell is going on?

And yet, he finds himself saying, “Maybe you moving in was a mistake.”

“Yeah,” Lacey breathes. “I think maybe it was.”

She storms back to their room, slamming the door behind her. James sinks down at the table, his eyes glued to the polaroid. Brown wavy hair, a crooked smile. Shining hazel eyes. So much of Belle within him, paired with James’ love of books. This is his son. He knows it.

God, he has a son.

Lacey emerges from the room, suitcase in hand. Their dinner grows cold. A part of James wants to tell her to sit down. They can figure this out together. She’s never lied to him before, why would she start now?

And still, his mouth says nothing as she leaves the apartment. The only thing that changes are the tears he allows to fall.

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (January 15th, 2012)

It’s the second time James has been in the orphanage in the course of a month, probably the most he’s ever been in his entire life. A few days have passed since he found the adoption paperwork and he’s tried to focus on the library. Every time he sees a child enter or he shelves a copy of Where The Wild Things Are, he’s reminded of Gideon. His son. He has a son that’s been out there all alone. 

James has barely given thought to kids with Lacey, but all along one existed. A little boy with dark brown hair and big eyes that loves books. He always said if he did have a child, they’d never feel as alone as he felt.

“It’s not your fault,” he mumbles to himself. “She’s the one who didn’t tell you.”

It took all he had to open up to Lacey. Trust her and confide in her. All along, she had hidden their child. One she had just given away without a second thought. She couldn’t even be bothered to make sure he had a good home. That didn’t sound like her at all. 

It really wasn’t Lacey. A nagging thought in the back of his brain screams there has to be a reasonable explanation but all of the paperwork is filled out in her handwriting. What else could it possibly be?

Sister Astrid interupts his thoughts. “Mother Superior will see you now.” She gestures in the way of a smaller oak door.

James lowers his head so not to hit it on the frame. The office brings him back to horrid thoughts of Catholic school, being ushered into the office for every single “sin”. A fuzzy memory of getting whipped for daring to hold Jacqueline’s hand enters but he quickly brushes it off.

Outside several crosses and a framed picture of a whitewashed version of Jesus, Mother Superior’s office is pretty bare bones. She sits behind her desk, with not even a computer on it. He knows nuns take a vow of poverty, but this is a bit much.

“Please sit, Mr. Spencer.” James obliges and lowers himself into the chair. “What brings you here today?”

“I came across this paperwork.” He reaches into his bag and removes the file, laying it on the desk. “It says I’m the father of Gideon French. I never saw it until last week.”

Mother Superior consults it. “Ms. French’s signature is here. Yours isn’t.”

“I can’t sign something I wasn’t aware of.”

“Well, when Gideon was brought to us, we only had page one with Ms. French’s information. We asked about a father but she claimed she didn’t know.”

“So she said. But we did sleep together about 9 months prior to his birth.”

Mother Superior’s face scrunches up and he lowers himself in his seat. “Charming,” she mutters. After a quick clear of the throat, she raises her voice. “Anyway, what would you like to do about this? Sign over your rights? We could finally place Gideon with a proper family.”

“No!” Her eyes widen and he gnaws on his lip. “I mean, no ma’am. I um...I think I want custody.”

“You think.” Mother Superior raises a brow. “Mr. Spencer, this is not a puppy or a dinner plans. You need to be sure before you take on a child.”

“I want him,” James says firmly. “I didn’t know he existed until last week and I didn’t realize I wanted anything more until now. I can’t let him go.”

“This isn’t going to be easy, you know. You’ll need a place to live…”

“I have an apartment. And a job.”

Mother Superior nods despite not looking convinced. “Well, there’s more to it than that. Kids need love, support, strength. Can you honestly say you’re going to be all of that?”

James lets out a deep breath. “Yes. I can.”

“Well, Mr. Spencer, because you and Ms. French were not married at the time of his conception, you are not on the birth certificate. You will have to take a DNA test and social services will be involved. I’ll get you an appointment at the clinic.” She folds her hands and leans over her desk. “But you need to be absolutely positive you want this. Once we start this process, there’s no going back.”

James thinks of the little boy who sits just rooms away. The one who swore his mommy would come back some day. Lacey isn’t anywhere near this situation, but James is. In the past, he’s let life just happen to him. Let his father talk him out of law school. Given up relationship after relationship. Bent over backwards to make everyone else happy. It’s his turn now.

“I understand. This is what I really want.”

“What was it like?” David asks James as they sit in his office at the sheriff’s station a few days later, a box of donuts between them.

James shrugs, grabbing a glazed. “I dunno. They just stuck the q-tip in. Done in a few seconds.”

“Think we could get one of those done with Albert?”

He scoffs. “We could only be so lucky.”

David stirs yet another packet of sugar into his already very sweet coffee. James cringes, sipping his own black cup.

“You’re going to get diabetes.”

David rolls his eyes. “You know Emma takes hers the exact same way? It’s weird.”

“Yeah, it means her teeth are also probably rotting out of her skull.”

“Be nice.” David sets his coffee onto the desk. “How do you feel about all of this? You could be a dad.”

“I am a dad. Lacey seemed pretty sure about that.”

“If she was sure, she would’ve told you sooner.”

James gnaws on his lip. “I want him to be mine. Is that weird? I never really truly gave thought to kids. I guess I thought I’d have them at some point. Then with Lacey, well, I thought about it. I would’ve been happy with kids, marriage all of it...and then she lied.”

“You need to talk to her.”

James shakes his head. “She abandoned our son. She could’ve told me existed, but instead she just gave him away. Didn’t even find a family for him, he just ended up in that God awful orphanage.”

“That doesn’t sound like Lacey.”

“It doesn’t, but how well do we really know her?”

“All I’m saying is...I’ve never been pregnant or had a kid. But I’ve heard it’s terrifying. You have to carry them for 9 months and then go through all that pain. Look at Emma, she did all of that and still gave Henry to Regina.”

“That’s different, though.”

“Why? Because you’re not involved in the story?”

James looks down at his cup, stirring the coffee around.

“I’d never judge Emma. She was young. In prison from what Sidney Glass reported. She did the right thing for her child.”

“And maybe Lacey was trying to do right by hers. You’ve seen Moe French. Does he really seem like the type to play doting grandfather?” James’ silence is enoug for him to keep talking. “Lacey probably felt alone and scared. She gave him to people she trusted. It’s not her fault they let her down.”

“But she could’ve told me!” James snaps his head up. “I would’ve taken him.”

“Where? To Dad? Moe looks like Ward Cleaver compared to him.” 

James narrows his eyes. “Who’s side are you on?”

“Gideon’s. He doesn’t deserve to be yo-yo’d. If you take him, you can’t hate his mother.”

“I don’t hate Lacey.”

“Well, you’re acting like it. There’s a good chance she may want to be in his life and you need to get over whatever petty shit you’re angry about.”

“Being mad she kept him from me isn’t petty.”

“No, but completely shutting her out is.”

James is quiet for another minute. “I’m gonna need a lawyer. Spencer’s isn’t an option.”

“Try Gold. I know he was helping Ashley Boyd with adoption before she changed her mind.” James nods. “I am on your side, Jamie. I just don’t want you to do something you can’t take back.”

James doesn’t either. More than anything, he wants to take out his phone and call Lacey. Listen to her and hear her out. David is right. This isn’t her. There has to be some explanation.

But if there was, wouldn’t she have reached out to him by now? 

James has never been in the pawn shop on Main Street. There’s never been a need. Albert loathes Mr. Gold and the feeling seems to be mutual. The most James has ever seen the mysterious landlord/attorney is at the diner or the rare town event. He owns most of the town and doesn’t seem to bother with any of it outside collecting rent.

Now, James stands surrounded by other people’s old junk. Antique swords just thrown into an umbrella stand. Dusty jewelry sits in the case. An imalucate glass unicorn mobile hangs by the door, gathering cobwebs. It reminds him that he has absolutely nothing for Gideon at his place. Heck, it’s only a one bedroom. He suppopes he’ll take the couch, Gideon can have a bed. James frowns. The boy is so small, he’ll need a toddler bed. Another thing to add to his ever running mental checklist.

“Mr. Spencer,” Mr. Gold says as he steps from out of the back. “What can I help you with?”

“I um...I know you’re an attorney.”

“I am. But why would you need my services when you could go to your father?”

“I am never asking him for help,” James says sharply. 

Mr. Gold smirks. “So, Albert has lost both of his boys. Again.”

James cocks a brow. “What do you mean again?”

“Never mind.” Mr. Gold shakes his head. “Why do you need an attorney?”

James once again pulls out the file from his briefcase. “It turns out I have a son.”

With one hand still on his cane, Mr. Gold accepts the file and places it onto the glass display, flipping through it.

“These were never filed.”

James nods. “Yes. The child in question is at St. Meissa’s.”

Mr. Gold wrinkles his nose. “Wretched excuse for an orphanage.” He closes the file. “I take it you’ve done a DNA test?”

“This morning. They say it’ll take a few weeks to process.”

“Well, really I cannot move forward until we receive those results.” He looks up with a smirk. “And a retainer of course.”

James pulls his checkbook from his case. “I’m aware.” After Mr. Gold hands him a pen, he gets to work on filling one out. This will take up most of his savings, but it’s worth it for his son. “So, um...since this was never filed, could Lacey file for custody?”

Mr. Gold doesn’t respond until he has the check in hand. “She could. Ms. French would need a lawyer as well. However, if she has a stable place to live and job, I don’t see why social services wouldn’t grant her custody.”

“She’s a waitress. And she’s living with Ruby Lucas right now.”

Mr. Gold adjusts his cane. “Do you not want her to have custody?”

“I...she gave him up.”

“I’m aware. That doesn’t mean she’d be unfit.”

“I’m just trying to protect my son.”

Mr. Gold is silent as he folds the check and tucks it into his breast pocket. He drags his cane back and forth across the floor, putting James in almost a trance.

“I have a son,” Mr. Gold says. James’ head snaps up at that revelation. No one’s seen Mr. Gold with a woman, much less a child. “His mother used him as collateral against me. She thought it’d make him love her more. He only ended up resenting her for it. And he wasn’t much older than Gideon when that began.”

James frowns. “I’m not...I mean...I would never…”

“But you’re trying to. If you want a good start with your son, Mr. Spencer, I’d suggest trying harder with his mum. I’m not saying you have to forgive her or take her back or even love her. But the more you respect her, the more he’ll respect you.”

James slowly nods, allowing himself to absorb the advice. He does love Lacey. Despite trying to stop, he can’t. Everything in him says not to trust her, but the louder part is screaming to hear her side. To just listen.

He has to think of Gideon right now. Get that sorted. Only then can he really turn to her.

“Thank you, Mr. Gold. I’ll come to you when I get the results.” Mr. Gold nods. James turns to leave, but stops as his curiosity gets the better of him. “What happened to him? Your son, I mean. I’ve never seen him around.”

“He’s gone,” Mr. Gold replies with a tone and face that tell him to leave it alone. 

James purses his lips, a bit of pity for the older man filling him. Mr.  Gold turns away and James debates comforting him. 

Then he realizes, he wouldn’t even know what to say. 

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (January 20^th, 2012 )

Of all the places Lacey expected to turn for comfort, it certainly was not Mary Margaret Blanchard.

She barely even knew her prior to their respective relationships with the Spencer brothers. Lacey was a waitress who spent her nights partying. Mary Margaret taught 4^th grade. Her idea of a good time was tea and a good book. Occasionally their paths would cross at the diner but the most Lacey knew about Mary Margaret was that she liked her toast with butter and jam, a combination which sounded absolutely disgusting but who was Lacey to judge.

Yes, on paper there was no reason why the two of them should ever have had much to do with one another. And outside helping James move or start the library, they didn’t. James and David, despite being identical on the outside, were polar opposites within. It made sense that their girlfriends would be the same.

And yet one day, Mary Margaret finds Lacey half-heartedly smoking a cigarette behind the diner as she cries for about the tenth time that day. She was a girl who once told herself romantic entanglements were for suckers and now, she can barely function without seeing James every day. There’s an ache in her heart that longs for him. But he hates her now, and it’s probably all her fault.

“Lacey? Are you alright?”

She drops the cigarette, smushing it in the ground and wiping furiously at her eyes. Black smudges appear on her hand and she sighs. Waterproof mascara is a rip-off. “I’m fine.”

“No, you’re not.”

Lacey looks her up and down. The soft pink cardigan, the “hang in there kitty” vibe. Mary Margaret is the last person she wants to talk to right now. “How would you know?”

“Well, for one, you’re crying surrounded by garbage.”

A loud laugh bubbles up in Lacey’s stomach, escaping through her mouth. The corners of Mary Margaret’s lips up turn ever so slightly. Lacey continues to laugh for far too long until the tears burn her eyes once again.

“No,” she admits for the first time since she walked out of James’ apartment “I’m not okay.” Once again, she rubs her fists over her eyes, ignoring her mother’s lectures about them getting infected. “What are you doing back here anyway?”

“My trash chute wasn’t big enough to fit all the cardboard from Emma’s boxes. She finally unpacked.” Mary Margaret vaguely gestures to the dumpsters. “David told me you and James broke up. What happened?”

Lacey shakes her head. “You wouldn’t believe me.”

“Try me.”

“I really don’t want to have this conversation surrounded by trash.”

“Then come back to my place. I have tea and I promise it smells a lot better.”

Lacey relishes in the warmth of Mary Margaret’s loft, out of the disastrous winter weather. True to her word, Mary Margaret brews them a pot of citrus lavender tea and they gather on the uncomfortable couch in the middle of the open concept loft. It’s quiet, outside of the sipping and occasional spoon clanging against the cup.

“I had a baby,” Lacey whispers. It’s only the second time she’s allowed herself to say it since he was born.

Mary Margaret nods. “David told me.”

“A boy. Gideon.” A whisper of a smile spreads across her lips. “He was perfect, you know? Seven pounds, three ounces. Just this little squish of a thing. His eyes couldn’t even open yet. But I loved him, more than I’ve ever loved anything.”

Mary Margaret is quiet and Lacey takes advantage of that time to take a sip of her tea. Ruby has been loud since the break-up. Saying she knew James was no good, that he’d break her heart eventually. Lacey didn’t even tell her the reason they broke up. Ruby’s mother took off when she was little. There’s no way she’d get this.

“I didn’t want to let him go. I just wanted to cuddle and protect him from the world.” Lacey blinks a few times. “But my dad said I couldn’t do it. I didn’t know the father, how could I raise him on a waitress’ salary? So, I gave him to my dad. Believed he’d give him his best chance.”

“And he didn’t.”

Lacey scoffs. “He threw him into the orphanage and didn’t even file the adoption paperwork.”

“Didn’t, or couldn’t?

Lacey’s annoyance drops marginally and she bites down on her lip. “I really didn’t know who the father was. At the time, I wasn’t exactly a virgin.” She shrugs. “It only added to my father thinking I was too irresponsible to raise a baby.”

“I believe you,” Mary Margaret says, her voice kind. “I really do.”

“I don’t know where to go from here. James isn’t speaking to me. Which, I can’t even blame him. Everything his father said would happen, actually did. I hurt him.”

“You didn’t mean to. You said it yourself, for so long, you had no way of knowing who the dad was.”

“Maybe I did and I just didn’t want to admit it? I mean, I saw the paperwork. That was my handwriting. There’s no way that my father could’ve forged it.”

“I’ve never had a baby, but I know the drugs they put Ashley on when she was in labor were strong as hell. It’s not fair to expect anyone to sign anything in that state.”

“It’s just weird because I didn’t even know James back then. Not like that, I mean.”

“We can go back and forth all day about how weird it is, but it won’t change facts. On paper, you still have custody, don’t you?”

“It’s more complicated. I’m pretty sure that I have rights, but I can’t just go pick him up from the orphanage and bring him home. Even if I want to.”

“Do you want to?”

Lacey licks her lips, staring down into her teacup. She spent so much time telling herself that she shouldn’t be a mother, she never really allowed the thought that she could.

“I…I could, you know? I have a job. Finding a place to live might be tricky but I think I could manage it.”

“Okay, so financially, you could swing it.”

“I have friends, you know? Ruby, Granny, I know they’d help as much as they could. And even if James hates me, I’m sure he wouldn’t walk away from his son.”

“You’d have us too. Me, David, probably Emma.” Lacey flashes her a small smile. “You wouldn’t be alone. It seems like you know that emotionally and financially, you’d make it. That still circles back to…do you want to do this?”

“I do.”

It’s the first time she’s said it out loud. She wants Gideon. To have him in her life, raise him. She could be the one he turns to when he’s sad. He’ll curl up on her lap and she can read him the same books that her mom did her. Lacey doesn’t know if he’d want her, but doesn’t she owe it to him to at least try?

“I wouldn’t even know where to start,” she says. “I have all the paperwork proving that he’s my son, but like I said, I can’t just waltz back into his life like nothing ever happened.”

“You need to know your rights.”

Mary Margaret places her tea on a coaster before hopping off the couch. She returns a few moments later with her laptop and throws the lid open. Lacey tilts her head in awe, watching as she starts Googling custody information.

“You’re helping me.”

Mary Margaret doesn’t look up from the article she clicks on. “Well, you need it.”

“I know, but…you barely know me? And you’re dating James’ twin. Surely…”

Mary Margaret’s hand lands on top of hers, silencing Lacey. “I’ve been in your shoes. Not with the kid thing, but I know what it’s like to need help and not sure where to turn. I didn’t have someone for that until Emma or David.”

Lacey frowns. “You’re the most beloved teacher in town.”

“Yeah, but before them, did you ever see me go out much? Bring many people to the diner for a date?”

She pauses, scratching her brain for any recollection. No, all she knows about Mary Margaret is she builds birdhouses and likes toast. Maybe they have more in common than she originally thought.

Lacey’s leg bounces up and down to the beat of the melancholy elevator music that plays in the office of Spencer & Associates. This is the last place she ever wanted to go, but options for lawyers are sparse in Storybrooke. Given her sexual history with Gold, there’s no way it’d be fair to go to him. At the very least, Albert doesn’t have a focus in family law. She’ll meet with Mr. Sanderson, who seemed promising.

“Ms. French.” Lacey cringes at the sound of Albert’s voice. “I had no clue you were capable of dressing so nice.”

Lacey plays with the hem of the knee length black skirt that Mary Margaret lent her. She wanted to look “motherly” and while Mary Margaret wasn’t one, she certainly had a “schoolmarm” vibe about her. Lacey paired the skirt with a plain white t-shirt, a lime green cardigan over the top. She’s like a little girl playing dress up, desperately trying to prove that she should play the mom in a game of make believe.

She holds her breath, doing her best to look past Albert. “I have a meeting.”

“I heard.” Lacey shuts her eyes, frowning. “Oh, you should’ve expected that by now, sweetheart. It’s a small office, my office at that.”

She narrows her eyes, glowering at him. “Don’t call me sweetheart.”

“There’s the Lacey I know,” he smirks. “How about you step into my office.”

“As I said, I have a meeting…”

“Sanderson is still out to lunch. I must insist. We have a lot to talk about. We’re family after all.”

Lacey purses her lips, forcing herself up and into his office. It’s just about what she pictured. Gray walls, stainless steel furniture. The latest Mac sits on top of his desk. The only thing that really takes her by surprise is a picture of his sons. David and James, arms around one another, matching smiles towards the camera. Was there ever truly a point where they were that happy with their father?

“Take a seat, please,” Albert steps behind his desk, lowering into his tall chair. Lacey makes a face but sits as well. “So, you’re the mother of my grandchild.”

“Maybe.” It’s the only time she’ll deny James is the father. “As you so charmingly liked to tell your son, I’ve been with my share of men.”

“Yes, but I’ve seen pictures of the boy. While he favors you quite a bit, there’s no doubt that there’s Spencer in there.”

“What exactly do you want?” Lacey blurts out. “I’m not with your son anymore. He hates me. You’ve won. Congratulations.”

Albert folds his hands. “You say that like it’s my fault.”

“Maybe it isn’t, but you got your way.”

“Not quite. You see, I’ve had plans for my sons from the moment they were born. They may resent me for them, but it’s all with their best interest at heart.” Lacey simply stares at him and he continues. “I do want grandchildren, one day. With the right people.”

“So, me and my son don’t qualify?”

“It was a drunken one-night stand. The child has been in the orphanage for three years now. James deserves a fresh start, with a proper girl. Which he’s agreed to.”

Lacey’s mouth drops open. “That’s impossible. James isn’t speaking to you.”

“As I suspected, he came running back the second he needed me. I’ve accepted him home with open arms.”

“No…I just…no.” Lacey shakes her head. “James would never…”

“But he has, Ms. French. He wants nothing to do with this child or you.”

Lacey blinks to wield off the tears that burn in the back of her eyes. This can’t be true. Even if James hates her, why would he turn his back on their child? Why would Lacey not mentioning him even be an issue then? Is it possible she never really knew him?

“It’s a small town,” Albert continues. “Assuming you regain custody of the boy, it’d be incredibly awkward to see the two of you. James and I are prepared to make you an offer.”

Lacey shakes her head, hiking her purse up over her shoulder, rising to her feet. “You and James can go fuck yourselves.”

“Sit,” he says sternly. Lacey jumps a little and falls back into the chair. “I’d watch your mouth, Ms. French, because I’m only going to make this offer once. I’ll help you get custody of Gideon. It should be easy given my connections. On top of that I’ll gift you fifty thousand dollars. You leave town, never speaking a word of this to anyone. Ever.”

Fifty thousand dollars. Lacey’s never been close to that kind of money. She’d probably never even have the opportunity to earn it in her life. Fifty thousand could get her on her feet. Gideon could have the best of everything while she tried to find a job. Maybe she could even swing a down payment on a house with a cute garden out front…

But leaving Storybrooke behind? Her support system? A part of even thinking she could do this banked on Mary Margaret and Ruby. How can she possibly do this alone?

“I just…I can’t leave Storybrooke. I can’t raise my son alone.”

“Mothers do it every day. Look at the mayor.”

“I’d hardly call that a success story.”

“I don’t expect you to react right away, but to show you I’m serious….”

Albert reaches into his desk and pulls out a check, sliding it towards Lacey. Her name is scrawled across the payee line, right above “Fifty thousand dollars 0/100”. This is a life changing amount of money.

“You have 72 hours. If I don’t hear from you by then, I’ll assume you don’t want my help.” Lacey nods, slowly rising to her feet. “But something tells me…I’ll hear from you soon.”

Lacey wordlessly exits the office, clinging her purse. She could have her son, provide an amazing life for him…without James. Despite everything, she loves him. She never stopped. Obviously, he has.

And is it really worth it to stick around for a man that is never going to love her back?

Chapter Text

Storybrooke, Maine (January 22nd, 2012)

“Fifty thousand dollars?!?” Mary Margaret exclaims. “Are you for real?”

“He showed me the check,” Lacey whispers, sinking lower in her chair. A cup of untouched tea sits in front of hers. Mary Margaret’s cup has shaken in her hands ever since Lacey dropped the bomb. “This isn’t a joke.”

“This is nuts. I knew Albert was serious, but to go this far?”

“I’m not surprised with him. It’s James I’m confused about.”

Lacey plays with the fringe on her top. She went through all her clothes to find something to wear for a meeting at the orphanage and came up short. Her wardrobe contains mini skirts and crop tops. Even the dress she wore at Christmas is too short to be taken seriously. Knowing Ruby’s closet would be no better, she turned to Mary Margaret. Her clothes are far from Lacey’s taste, which is good. It’ll show she’s serious.

Upon arrival, Mary Margaret made tea and they didn’t even start to go through her wardrobe.

“It doesn’t make sense from what David told me either,” Mary Margaret says. “I mean, sure he’s angry with you but why would he if he didn’t want the child?”

“I still…well, how can I lie about something I didn’t know myself? But I guess it hurt. Maybe that’s why he doesn’t want to be around. It’s been three years. He probably thinks it’s too late.”

Lacey frowns. It’s her fault her son is in that orphanage. She should’ve found the right family. No, she should’ve fought enough to keep him. Then she should’ve tried harder to find the father. Now, it’s not only on her that he was abandoned for all this time, it’s her fault that he won’t have a father.

“I fucked up so bad,” she mutters.

“Hey, this isn’t on you,” Mary Margaret says sharply. Lacey looks up, a little taken aback by her brashness. “If James wants to hide behind his father, that’s his on him. He could choose to be the father Gideon deserves but instead, he ran.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard you firm before.”

Mary Margaret blushes a little, before shrugging. “I don’t have a lot of respect for deadbeats.”

“But I…”

“You were coerced into giving your son up. Even if you were like Emma and chose to with your whole heart, that’s different. She gave her child a life she couldn’t. James, again, his hiding behind daddy.” There’s a pause. “Question is, are you going to take it?”

“I’d be crazy not to, wouldn’t I? Fifty grand…it’s not quit your job and never work again but it could be a down payment on a house. I could maybe go back to school, get a job that isn’t scrubbing syrup off dishes. If I want to get him back, I’d need the money.”

“But you’d have to leave Storybrooke. Your home.”

Lacey considers. What is home? Her mom’s dead, father won’t speak to her. James hates her. While Ruby and Mary Margaret are great, they’re not enough to tie her to this place. All she has is her son and she can raise him anywhere.

“I’ve always wanted to see New York,” Lacey says, thinking of the guidebooks she has stacked up high. “The skyscrapers, the food…it always seemed…perfect. Gideon and I could live by a park.” The door opens and shuts behind her. She barely glances back to see David standing there. “That could be home.”

“Home?” David asks, walking closer. “Are you finally moving out of Granny’s?”

“Um, probably. To New York.”

David tilts his head. “Excuse me?”

Mary Margaret frowns. “Your  father and brother have offered Lacey fifty grand to leave town with Gideon. She’s going to take it.”

David’s eyebrows knit together. “That makes no sense.”

“It’s fifty thousand dollars, David,” Lacey says. “That’s more money than I’ll have in my whole life.”

“No.” David’s voice is firm now. “There’s no way James would be behind this.”

Lacey sighs. David would side with his brother. It’s only natural. She gathers her bag, ready to leave.

David holds out his hand. “Lace, wait.”

“I know he’s your brother, but…”

“No, just listen. James isn’t speaking with Albert right now. They haven’t in weeks.”

“David, I spoke with your father. He said…”

“Albert is full of shit. James is working with Gold to get custody of Gideon.”

Mary Margaret looks up at him. “You didn’t tell me that.”

“He wants to keep it low, so it doesn’t get back to Albert.” He turns back to Lacey. “I’m serious, Lace. James isn’t trying to get rid of Gideon. He’s fighting like hell for him.”

Lacey hikes her purse up over her shoulder and heads for the door.

“Wait,” Mary Margaret says. “We didn’t even look at the dresses.”

“Later,” she says. “I need answers from him.”

James frowns as he stares at all the paperwork surrounding his desk. So much of it is repetitive. His name, birthday, social security number. Has he been convicted of a crime? Is he related to the child, if so, how?

It shouldn’t be this hard. This is his son! He wants him, he can provide for him, isn’t that enough?

Though another part of him is grateful they make it this hard. It prevents just anyone from getting a child.

“James.”

He doesn’t even have to look up to know it’s Lacey. She stands in the doorway of his office, licking her lips. Her normally blue eyes are patched over in a light shade of red, her chestnut hair frizzed. The only familiar thing is the outfit. A long fishnet shirt  over a black crop top and a pair of torn jeans which are also over tights. She wrings her wrists, just looking at him for a few moments. He opens his mouth, but no words come out either. He’s spent so long with his anger, not wanting to see her. Now, it’s taking everything he has to not wrap her in his arms forever. There’s an ache in his heart when she’s not there. One he isn’t sure how to get rid of. Or if he even wants to.

“Are you trying to get custody of Gideon?” 

It takes a few moments for the question to process. “Huh?”

“Your brother told me you’re working with Gold, is that true?”

James rolls his eyes. “David has a big mouth.”

“Please,” Lacey’s voice turns to a whisper and tugs at his heart. “Just tell me.”

He sighs, standing up. “Yes, I am.” Tears fall down her face. “I know you didn’t want him, Lacey, but I do. I took a paternity test and it…”

A pair of tiny arms wrap around his waist. A soft “oh” echoes from his mouth. Against his better judgment, he hugs her in return. She still smells like sandalwood, syrup from the diner and sun-ripped strawberry shampoo. It’s addictive, anchoring him to her.

“Your father told me you didn’t want him,” she says, a sob coming out with her words. James raises an eyebrow. “He offered me fifty grand to leave town with Gideon and never come back.”

His muscles tense as he holds her closer, his hand cradling the back of her head.

“You spoke with my father?”

“I went to see another lawyer and he ambushed me,” she  mumbles into his shirt.

By second nature, he kisses her temple. Gently, he pries her face away from his chest and runs his fingers over her tears.

“I would never do that, Lace.”

“And I would never lie to you. James, you have to believe me. Until that night, I didn’t remember our time together.”

“We we’re both so drunk.” He shakes his head. “I…I believe you?”

She frowns, sniffling. “You do?”

“I was so angry then and I’ve tried to tell myself this was vindictive. But none of it makes sense. What would you get by lying to me?”

“I’ve been honest from day one, James. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

She sobs once more before kissing him. He deepens it, gripping her as close to him as possible.

“I’m sorry,” he whispers through the kiss. “The things I said, they were awful.”

Lacey shakes her head, clinging to the buttons on his flannel. “You were hurt. I was hurt.”

“Never again.”

He collapses into his chair, pulling her down onto his lap and carding his fingers through her hair. She leans back against him, eyeing the paperwork. Lacey leans over and picks up an envelope.

“This is from the lab.”

“It’s the results. I’ve been scared to open them.” 

“Well…what more do we have to lose?”

She hands them over and with shaky fingers, he rips the envelope. James pulls out the paperwork, his eyes glossing over at all the scientific jargon he barely understands. At the bottom of the paper, he finds the only important line.

Probability of paternity: 99.999999999%

A sigh of relief escapes him. He cuddles Lacey closer, as fresh tears spill down her face.

“I wanted this,” he says. “I didn’t even know until now, but I really, really wanted this. Wanted him. Ever since I met him around Christmas, something told me…”

“It’s the pull,” Lacey says. “I felt it the second they placed him on my chest.”

James nods, a bit of regret filling him. He should’ve been there that day. Holding her hand, cutting the cord. It should’ve been him to put their son in her arms. 

He never should’ve left them.

“I can’t pretend he doesn’t exist, Lacey. I just found out about him and already…I love him so much. I have to do this. Fight for him, be the dad he needs. If he’ll let me.”

Lacey turns to face him, cradling his cheek in her hand. “I agree.”

“You do?”

“I never wanted to let him go. My dad forced my hand. But now, fate’s given me a chance. I could get my son back.”

“We’re going to get our son back.”

An easy smile falls across Lacey’s lips.

“I like the sound of that.”