Debt to the Devil (Part Six: The Vow)
Debt to the Devil
Part Six: The Vow
Note: I do not own “Once Upon A Time” and I do not make a profit from writing this story. I’m just amusing myself.
Authors Note: This is it folks! The last part!
Rating: T(For very strong language and sensual content)
Warnings: Language mostly
Genre: Angst/Drama
Word Count: 6,936
Cast: Ruby, Mr. Gold, Ashley Boyd, Sean Herman, Alexandra (Boyd-Herman), Emma Swan, Archie Hopper, Mary Margaret, Regina Mills, Granny, Billy, Leroy...
Summary: He wanted her to live and he wanted her loyalty, but most of all, he wanted her to make a deal…
Ruby walked up the Herman’s driveway, disbelief running through her mind. She couldn’t believe she was about to do this, trying to seduce her best friend’s boyfriend at the whim of her lover. As soon as Sean saw her, her automatically let her in, she put an extra sway in her step as she walked past him, hoping to catch his eye. When she turned on her heels to face him, he was preoccupied with his sandwich. Ruby shook her head and sat down on the stairs; Sean dropped down next to her and continued to eat.
She was kind of appalled but not surprised; after all, he was a boy. “Really Sean? You can’t even say hello?” she asked.
“Hi!” he burbled out though it was muffled by the bite of his sandwich.
“Wow, aren’t you charming?” she asked.
He swallowed then grinned. “Yeah, I am,” he said, smiling happily. “What brings you by?” he asked, taking another bite.
She shoved down the guilty feeling that swept through her. “Nothing, just wanted to say hi,” she said, and then arched her brows when he offered her a bite of his sandwich.
She shook her head, pushing the sandwich back to him. “Cool. Hi! Ash should be here soon with Alexandra,” he informed her.
“My, however will we pass the time?” she asked, batting her eyes.
“Want a sandwich?” he asked.
That was the last straw. “SEAN!” she snapped which made him laugh, almost choking on his sandwich. She patted him hard on the back and he laughed the whole while.
“Sorry, I couldn’t help it. It’s a damn good sandwich,” he said, she shook her head, cementing the fact she would never like someone her own age or young.
“Is that all you’re thinking about right now?” she asked, placing her hand on his knee. Usually at this point, any other man in town would be on her but nope, not him.
“No. I’m wondering when I should propose to Ashley…and if I have enough formula here…” Ruby hated herself more so after those words than she had her entire life. “And I’m wondering why you seem like you’re hitting on me…or trying to,” he observed.
She sighed, and confessed. “Mr. Gold asked me to, I think he wants to punish Ashley by having me betray her,” Sean dropped his beloved sandwich.
“What the fuck!?” he roared at her and she jerked away, eyes large.
“What?”
“Why are you ‘what’-ing me?! You’re the one with the fucked up douche boyfriend! All the names you called me after I was bullied into leaving Ash and then you pull this on his request!” Sean demanded.
Ruby winced at his fury. “I know, I feel awful and I’m not sure how far he even wanted me to go! I-I…God why do I love him?” she said, she buried her face into his shoulder as he sat back down and rubbed her back.
“Ruby, don’t take this the wrong way but I would never, ever sleep with you. Sure, you’re hot, you know it, hell! Even that blind lady down the street knows it! But I don’t like bad girls, not even good girls who look like one,” he said, she sighed, an old quote coming to her mind. I’m not bad, I’m just drawn that way…
But it was a relief nevertheless. “Thank God,” she muttered, making him laugh. “Forgive me?”
He smiled what she would consider a charming smile at her. “Always, you’re my friend and you were just trying to appease the asshole that you love,” he shrugged, “Can’t really hate you for that. I mean, I love my Dad and look what he did to me. He kept me from Ashley when I should have been there for her. But you forgave me, she forgave me, we’re all good.”
“You’re a good man Sean,” she told him and then nudged him. “So show me that ring,” she said, with a grin he produced a ring box from his pocket. There was an elegant diamond on a white gold setting, it was beautiful and she knew Ashley would love it. “It’s beautiful. She’ll love it,” Ruby told him.
He looked relieved, quickly stuffing the box back into his jeans. “Really?” he asked.
“Of course!” She insisted, “Though I’m sure you could give her a ring pop and she’d be happy, this is perfect for her. You have a good eye.”
He beamed, obviously feeling proud of himself. “Good to know, thanks Rubes, but if I were you, I’d go raise hell to your,” he stopped to shudder, “Lover.”
“I will. I mean, who in the hell does he think he is?” she said, standing quickly, hands on her hips.
“Unleash hell!” Sean cheered from the steps, “Don’t kill him!” he added quickly causing Ruby to roll her eyes.
“I wasn’t going to!” she insisted with a scoff.
“Good. Well, good luck, this never happened and I’m going to remake my sandwich,” he said, which made Ruby slap her hand to her face.
“This is why I could never like you anyways, you’re too damn weird and young,” she called to him as he headed for the kitchen and his laughter followed her out the door.
Ruby found herself hurrying towards Mr. Gold’s shop, knowing that’s where he’d be at this time of day. She threw the door open and shouted his name, he merely looked over at her like she was insane. She flipped the sign on the door with a vengeful look on her face that it sent Mary Margaret scurrying out the door.
“What is it Pet?” he asked, she leaned over the counter, dragged him by his tie into his office and slammed the door behind her. She pushed him back so he was sitting on the edge of his desk, still looking very alarmed and caught off guard.
She felt her fury rise, refusing to let it go as she met his eyes. “Why the fuck did you make me do that? Who in the hell do you think you are? Do you not get how I feel about you? I would do anything for you! And apparently I’m just as fucked up as you are for almost going along with it! And know what, it backfired, so fuck you!” She yelled her voice cracked due to the strain. He just sat there, stunned.
“What are you going on about?” he asked, she continued to glare, coughing hard, still finding it hard to breath.
“You know what I’m going on about. You wanted me to seduce Sean! Thank God the man is immune to me!” she said, “What kind of man asks that of his partner?!” she yelled, continuing to cough.
“Easy, easy,” he said. When he reached out to touch her, she backed off, out of his grasp, causing him to frown.
“Don’t you dare! What if it worked and we ended up in bed!?” she demanded and he simply blinked at her.
“I didn’t ask you to sleep with him,” he said mildly, “Just seduce.”
She let out a snort, slamming her hands to her hips. “But what do you think that leads to!? Why did you ask me in the first place!?” she just about screamed causing her voice to break and she dissolved into a coughing fit.
“To see if you would. I need to know I can trust you fully,” he said, “To know I could continue on with the next step of our relationship.”
She continued to glare at him, furious he was so calm. “What do you mean?” she panted out, as he passed her a water bottle from behind him on the desk. She drank quickly, shoving it back at him.
“By marrying you, of course, wouldn’t that make you happy?” He asked, looking wounded when she shouted ‘no’. “Why, I thought you loved me,” he said.
Her eyes narrowed dangerously, her voice was a soft hiss. “Don’t pull that shit. You know I do but how can two fucked up people like us have a normal relationship?” she asked.
“Easily, my dear. Do you want to be happy? Couldn’t I make you happy?” he asked, his words moved her and she hung her head.
“Yeah…but I don’t know…” Ruby said with a sigh, he pulled something out of his pocket and held it out to her.
His eyes locked hers, “You do know, marry me, we’re allowed to be happy, aren’t we?” he asked, and she looked from the ring to his face, and the sincerity touched her. She gingerly took the ring and studied it; it was a gold band with a large diamond with two rubies on either side of it. Whenever she had envisioned a ring for this moment, this was it. And she wasn’t surprised he knew. She swallowed and looked from the ring to him, and then she slipped it on her finger. It was the perfect, as was everything he ever gave her.
“Yes.” She said.
The smile that lit his face made her fury finally die, “Really, Pet?” he asked, she nodded, nothing felt more right as the next words left her mouth.
“I will marry you, Timothy Gold.” He pulled her to him and kissed her deeply, he wrapped his arms around her.
He broke the kiss, nuzzling her neck gently. “Now I know what it’s like to be happy,” he whispered in her ear and she smiled because now, for the first time in what seemed like ever, she felt it too.
The next day, Ruby returned to work for the first time and she smiled at the warm reception she received when she crossed the threshold of the diner. In fact, she startled half the people there by almost crying.
“Oh God, you’re really on the rag, aren’t you?” Leroy asked in mock horror as he handed her a tissue on his way out the door. She laughed and accepted the tissue and planted a big kiss on his cheek.
“No, just really happy,” she said.
He laughed harshly, “Happy to be a waitress in a dead end town?” he asked, but there was a warm smile on his lips.
“Yeah,” she said grinning broadly, “it’s not so bad when people love you.”
“Well you are loved, Doll. If we lost you, we’d lose the prettiest girl in town and we can’t have that,” he said with a wink and strolled out the door. She made a mental note to make sure his next meal was on the house as she grabbed her apron and started her shift. Granny came from the kitchen to give her a hug and a kiss on the cheek, Ruby held her tight. Her Grandmother hadn’t done this in years and she hated to admit it but she missed the affection.
“I love you,” Ruby whispered as clung on her tight, Gran looked at her like she was insane.
She pulled back and studied her with a narrow eye. “Are you pregnant?” she demanded causing Ruby to shriek in dismay.
Ruby shook her head furiously, “No! I’m just happy!” the girl insisted as her Grandmother continued to look at her suspiciously.
“Whatever you say,” Granny said, as she went back into the kitchen. Ruby laughed and headed over to Emma and Ashley who were waiting in her section.
She paused at the end of the table, hip cocked, ready for their orders. “So what can I get you ladies, besides the cinnamon hot chocolate?” Ruby asked, Ashley was grinning ear to ear, looking ready to burst.
“How about you in a bridesmaid dress, Maid of Honor?” she squealed, promptly throwing herself at Ruby, who hugged her back just as hard. Ashley only let go when Ruby started coughing but Ruby smiled.
“Of course,” Ruby said as she pulled back, that’s when Ashley caught a gleam of something and stopped.
“Wh-what’s that on your finger, Miss?” she asked, seizing Ruby’s hand and holding it close to her face.
“A ring?” Ruby asked and Ashley shook her head.
“That’s a…Oh my God!” she lowered her voice and pulled Ruby close, “Did he ask you to marry him?”
Ruby couldn’t help but smile. “Yeah, yeah he did. And I said yes,” Ruby informed her as Emma leaned in.
“Why? He’s a skeevy old man, how happy can he make you?” she asked.
Ruby looked at Emma, who was ever the cynic. “Support, love, sex, all that kinda stuff,” she replied honestly.
“Screw bridesmaid! Double wedding!” Ashley cheered and a couple people looked up. Ruby shot her a glance and Ashley attempted to quiet her voice.
“I doubt he’ll go for that, but I could try,” Ruby said with a shrug and Ruby felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned to see Gold behind her. He nodded his head towards the back of the diner. Emma and Ashley watched with interest as they were talking closely, quietly. His whole demeanor changed, he seemed more at peace and, dare they imagine, happy. Emma was still disgusted and conflicted with the very idea but she couldn’t help but notice how he looked at her. It was a look of contention and adoration and he wore a small smile on his lips as they spoke.
“Should we feel bad for eavesdropping?” Emma asked in a whisper and Ashley shook her head.
“Nope it’s what this town does. We don’t have much to do…” The maid said causing Emma to snicker. They watched as the couple parted, Gold left and Ruby went back to their table, looking stunned.
“Apparently he’s down with the idea. And he said that he’ll buy your dress, Ash,” Ashley threw herself onto Ruby once more. “I know! It surprised the shit out of me too.”
Ashley squealed in her ear. “Ruby, we’re getting married!”
“People are going to think we’re getting married if you don’t stop that,” Ruby said with a laugh.
“Tell Granny you’re not feeling good and leave with me, I want to go dress hunting!” Ashley declared and Ruby shook her head.
“I can’t kiddo, I need to work,” she replied, Ashley shook her head with an impish grin.
“Not anymore. You’re marrying the richest man in town, you’re going to be a trophy wife,” Ashley wiggled her eyebrows and tried to leer, Ruby roll her eyes.
“Just what I always wanted,” she drawled sarcastically, but with the pain starting to swell in her chest from each breath she did realize maybe she should take the day off. “I’ll take the day off, but I’m not looking,” Ruby said and Ashley cheered. “Coming with?” Ruby asked and Emma shook her head.
“I should say no, but I can’t pass this up,” she said as the trio headed out to the one dress shop in town.
According to Ruby and Ashley all dresses there were handmade, except for a few that were sent in but nothing could rival those gowns. Emma wasn’t too interested, she wasn’t the marrying type, sure eventually she could settle down but she enjoyed being her own person and not having to rely on anyone else.
“Oh Miss Boyd, Ruby, I wondered when you two would be by,” the woman behind the desk said jovially.
Ashley just smiled blissfully, “Word travels fast, huh?” Ruby said and the woman laughed.
“Yes and no. I know because Mr. Gold requested something for you and informed me of your upcoming nuptials,” The woman replied, Ruby arched her brows.
“Really? He did that?” she asked and the woman nodded.
“Yes he did and just wait until you see what he ordered,” the woman was practically bouncing, Ruby exchanged glances with Emma. The woman rushed away and Ashley set Alexandra’s car seat down, as the infant slept on. When the woman set the box on the counter and Ruby opened it, Emma was shocked at the noise that came out of the Ruby’s mouth. It was almost a scream; the girl lifted her hands to her face, her mouth hanging open.
“Oh. My. God.”
“What? It’s just a red wedding dress?” Emma asked, Ruby shook her head and pulled the gown out of the box.
“No. No. This is much more than that! It’s a Maria Karin Couture wedding dress!” Ruby said, her voice full of awe and rushed off to try it on.
When she returned, she walked to the mirrors and everyone in the shop looked stunned. It was a beautiful black and red strapless gown with black flower embellishment. It was perfectly Ruby to the point that Ashley was in tears of joy.
“Wow,” Emma said, stunned, she wasn’t a fan of the man but this simply blew her away, to see Ruby almost crying over a gown she hadn’t expected was touching.
“Ruby, he wanted you to have this as well,” the shop keeper said, and they watched as the woman placed a floor length red cloak on the girl.
Then it was like everything stopped. Emma felt like she was the only one that took a breath, Ruby was looking at the mirror with a look. Ashley wore the same look on her face, it was like they were trying to remember…and Emma shuddered as she realized her son was right. Ruby was reaching up and touching her face and she looked pained. Then she reached for her own reflection, running her red colored nails over the glass and then her eyes rolled back and she collapsed. That was enough to break the spell on Ashley who rushed to her side, calling her name. Emma looked around to see Archie right outside, walking Pongo, knowing he was the closest thing to a Doctor in the second she rushed for the door.
“Archie! Get in here, Ruby…fainted…or something!” she said and he passed the leash to Emma and hurried in. Emma waited by the door, holding on tight to the dog who wanted nothing more than to pounce on Ruby. But Emma watched as soon as Archie saw the cloak; he paused like Ashley and the others, seemingly falling into a trance. He snapped out of it quicker than the others and checked Ruby’s pulse, he gently called her name and she seemed to be waking up.
“Hey there, welcome back Ruby, are you alright?” he asked and she nodded and he slowly pulled her into a sitting position.
“Yeah, I guess I had a wicked case of déjà-vu or something,” Ruby said and followed Archie’s finger as he moved it in her line of sight.
“I think you’ve been pressing yourself too hard. I would feel better if you go to the hospital to rule out a seizure,” he told her and she shook her head.
She gave him a weak smile. “Nah, I’m alright, just help me up, please,” she said and he grasped her hands and pulled her to her feet.
Ruby watched him look over her in her dress, a sad smile on his lips. “You look beautiful,” he said, “He’s a lucky man,” He whispered in her ear and she smiled.
“Thank you,” she said and she gave him a hug. She looked to Ashley and to Emma, still pale as a ghost. “I want to go home,” she said.
“Where’s home?” Emma asked and Ruby answered without hesitation.
“With him.”
“Ok then,” Ashley said and she headed into the backroom with Ruby and helped her out of the dress.
“I’ll be taking the dress though and I’m getting a second for the reception,” Ruby said as she passed the shop keeper, who nodded numbly, looking like she should be the one leaving. The three headed out the door and into the cool day, holding on to Ruby as they ushered her home.
Emma was sitting in a chair in Mr. Gold’s library as Ruby lay still on the couch, head in Ashley’s lap. Alexandra was sleeping soundly still, after everything that happened. Unable to sit still, Emma began to wander, looking at all the books and her stomach knotted as her eyes graced a title.
Once Upon A Time, the same book her son, the one that started his whole theory. She skimmed the pages and it wasn’t the exact same. There was some pages she hadn’t seen, and with good reason. They focused on the death and rebirth of the woman known as Little Red Riding Hood, and the fact she was being broken down by Rumplestiltskin the moment she made a deal with him. She figured Mary probably ripped them out before giving the book to Henry, not wanting him to see the bleeding Red Riding Hood illustrated on the page with Rumplestiltskin leaning over her body.
Emma looked to Ruby, then back to the book; it made her sick to realize that she was reading about her. She read the pages of Rumplestiltskin and Red Riding Hood, how he used his deal to make her lose all she was, so she could be his. It intrigued her that it alluded that it was out of love, that the Imp saved her because he loved the hooded girl, but she couldn’t see it because she didn’t want to. Emma didn’t want to think that the most powerful and feared creature of the book could be Mr. Gold and that he was damning Ruby to him in both realities. She skimmed more pages, the ones she hadn’t seen and found a passage that stunned her.
“Watch over Ella for me, I will remain here for you, but you must protect her. She will need you when I’m gone,” he said and she nodded.
“In this world and the next, I vow it.”
Later that night, the Red Riding Hood found herself weaving through the maze of tunnels that lead to Rumpelstiltskin’s prison. The Imp looked delighted at the sight of her, he always did, the girl’s stomach fluttered. No man had looked upon her with such a gaze, she felt like she was the fairest person that walked the lands when his eyes locked on her.
“It is done,” She whispered and he reached through the bars, beckoning her closer, she wondered if he was willing her to do so since she easily walked closer. His fingers grazed her skin and cupped her face, a giggle escaped his lips.
“Such a good girl,” He praised, she was starting not to loathe his touch as much as she used to. “My Red Hood,” he purred.
“Why do you speak to me like I am your lover? Yes, I have known ecstasy at your touch but we have not consummated,” she said, annoyed, the Imp grinned. “You and your deal is the reason I have allowed it to continue. You make me feel this way.”
“Because, dear, I love you, and you’re as good as mine now. But it is not my deal that makes you feel as such. I will release you of our deal for one day. When you return to me by your own will, you will realize, it is not my will or my deal that is keeping you at my side. It is your own doing, like it or not, I’m the closest to a Knight in shining armor that you’ll ever have. No mere man will ever cherish you as I have, all this time.” Rumplestiltskin said and she felt a power rush through her. She raced from the prison, out into the moonlit night, his words heavy in her mind.
By sunset the next day-
“Find a good read, Miss Swan?” came Mr. Gold’s voice and Emma was so startled she dropped the book. Ruby was glaring at her from the couch, looking like she just woke up. Alexandra fussed in her carseat and Ashley nudged it with her foot, rocking it back and forth, soothing the child.
“Uh. Sure. I was feeling whimsical,” she said and shoved the book back on the shelf. Wanting to know what happened but as she watched, she knew her answer. Mr. Gold and Ruby were staring at each other like star crossed lovers, like the looks her own supposed parents wore several times in the book.
“I see. Ruby, dear, how are you?” he asked, swiftly turning his attention to his fiancé who sat up and smiled sleepily at him.
Ruby smiled weakly. “I’m ok, I promise, I just fainted. I guess I wasn’t as well as I thought,” she insisted and Emma watched, in annoyance, as he dropped to his knees and stroked her face.
“Then you must rest,” he said and she nodded and gave Ashley a hug, then nodded to Emma. He climbed to his feet and helped her up and escorted her from the room.
“Ashley, do you think Ruby should do this?” Emma asked and Ashley nodded.
“She loves him, I want her happy. I know you hate him, and I may be afraid of him still but he’s good to her. That’s all I need,” Ashley said.
“It feels like he’s using her…” Emma said, sighing, wishing in this moment she hadn’t seen the book or his son’s crazy theory.
“For what? Sex? She’d give him that for free. If he wants companionship, why not, he needs it. Ruby enjoys his company too.” The girl said and lifted her daughter into her arms. “We should all be happy, right?”
“Yeah, but-“
“But you don’t want to believe I can make Ruby happy? That I cannot provide a normal, stable, healthy relationship for her?” Mr. Gold asked as he returned, there was a sly smile on his lips. “I will assure you I can, just because there is a bit of an age gap-“
Emma arched her brows, “A bit?” she asked, caught off guard when he laughed.
“Age is nothing but a number.”
“Spoken like a true cradle robber,” Came a voice as Regina stormed into the library.
“Ah, Madame Mayor, what can I do for you?” Mr. Gold asked, his voice light, Emma hadn’t heard that tone but could tell that he was agitated at the sight of Regina in his home. His fingers flexed their grip on cane, and she noted all his knuckles were white when he clasped the handle again.
The Mayor stopped directly in front of him, toe to toe with him. “I’ve heard you are to wed the girl,” she said, her voice was cold, Emma’s brows remained arched, that was Regina’s tone usually reserved for her.
Mr. Gold smiled slowly, “It’s true, I do.” He said, mildly, Emma crossed and stood beside Ashley, almost wanting to shield her from what was happening.
“You cannot,” Regina state and he snorted softly, holding back a laugh.
“Oh? And why not?” he asked, his voice continued to be mild, almost amused.
“Because she is a girl who is more than half your age whose goal is probably just to get into your pocketbook, you’re blinded by her…charm and beauty to see it.” Regina said, her jaw was clenched and Gold chuckled softly.
“If you’re insinuating I’m pussy whipped you could just come out and say it, we’re all adults here. And the wee one doesn’t have a clue to what we’re talking about.”
“Fine, I think that you’re thinking with the wrong head when it comes to Ruby. Everyone in town has had her and you’re the last on her list. You will not go through with this,” she growled and Emma knew she should be leaving but she couldn’t, this was too fascinating to watch. “You don’t deserve to get even one happy ending in your life.”
Mr. Gold’s features became eerily calm, which made Emma shiver. “That’s where you’re wrong, dear, I believe I do. And if you please, I would prefer you not insinuate that Ruby is nothing more than a…what’s the term…gold digging slut. Because she isn’t and once again, though you do not want to listen, I will be going through this. I adore the girl and want to give her everything. I have finally found the courage to do so and nothing will stop me. I will ask you nicely, to leave, please, and I’ll consider putting you on the guest list,” he said and Ashley and Emma exchanged glances as Regina’s eyes lit with fury at the word ‘please’. But she turned on her heel and marched out, the main door’s slam echoing through the house. “My my, what a dramatic exit,” he mused, shaking his head. “I’m sorry you had to witness that, Ladies, ALL of you,” he said and they watched as Ruby poked her head into the door. She was grinning as she walked back in.
“How do you always know where I am?” she asked.
“It’s a gift.” He said dryly, “I’m sorry you had to hear,” he apologized, Ruby shrugged.
“I would have heard from the bedroom anyways,” she told him and she wrapped her arms around him. “Thank you for defending me,” she whispered and he pulled away, lifting her chin.
“Why wouldn’t I? We are a couple and I do not take kindly to people talking down about you, I never have and I never will.” He said causing her to beam at him, she pressed a kiss to his forehead and Emma watched as he leaned into her touch. It was oddly moving, especially for him.
“I love you,” Ruby said, so soft Emma could hardly hear her.
“And I love you,” he told her, and nudged her gently. “Time for bed,” he said and she nodded. She waved to Emma and Ashley once more and headed back out of the room. “I do want to apologize again, I did not wish for Regina to make such accusations and points in front of either of you.”
“It’s alright, it’s good to see her use that tone on someone else,” Emma said and he laughed softly.
“Yes, that tone is usually reserved for the people she can’t tolerate…which would be us,” he confirmed, “But I must ask you both to leave now, Ruby will never rest, knowing you remain here. I would suggest giving her a few more days to rest before visiting again,” he said, he walked both of them to the door and when he opened it, Archie was about to knock.
“Oh, hello, sorry to interrupt,” he said and Gold shook his head.
“No worries Doctor Hopper, Ruby is upstairs. Third door on the right,” and with a nod, Archie made his way in and upstairs.
“I thought you said no more company,” Ashley teased which surprised Emma, especially when Gold laughed.
“That is true but this is more of a professional visit. I do not trust that incompetent Whale, I know Dr. Hopper will be able to see to Ruby and make sure she’s alright,” he explained and Emma nodded, she had to agree with him.
“Alright, goodbye Mr. Gold,” Emma said as she helped Ashley out the door.
“Miss Swan, Miss Boyd, wee one,” he said and gently closed the door behind them.
“Well that was…different,” Emma told the girl who was making cooing noises at her daughter.
“It was. It’s good to see such a protect side to Mr. Gold. I think it endeared me to him, it makes me feel better that Ruby will be ok,” she said and Emma sighed.
“I hate to say it but yeah…” Emma said and Ashley smiled.
“Good! But I gotta get home, Sean will be off work soon! I can’t wait to tell him about today, it was nuts,” Ashley said with a laugh and Emma nodded.
“Sure was,” Emma confirmed and watched the girl head off in the opposite direction.
Now alone, Emma fought to understand all she leaned and what she almost had. If anything she wanted to know if Red Riding Hood returned, though deep inside, she knew she did. When she returned home, she found Mary Margaret making cookies, a lot of cookies. The counter and tables were covered in the finished and cooling batches.
“Are you alright?” Emma asked, mildly alarm and Mary nodded.
“Yeah, I’m just baking for my class, why?” she asked and Emma shook her head.
“I thought it was because of David,” Mary sighed.
“…it is a little. I may or may not have kissed him when I walked him home the other day,” Mary said and winced at Emma’s reaction.
“MARY!”
Mary’s face turned pink, “What? He kissed me and I kissed him back and we almost made out on his couch before his wife walked in. I’m going to hell,” Mary muttered, smacking her face into her palm.
“You are not. You can’t help you fell for him and feel the way you do. But I have something to distract you with!” Emma declared, taking a cookie.
“What?” Mary asked, moving some cookies to a cooling rack.
“The book, the one you gave Henry, is it the only one?” Mary shook her head. “Where did you get it?”
Mary tilted her head, “Mr. Gold gave it to me, why?”
Emma just sighed. “Figures. Did you censor it in any way before you gave it to Henry?” she asked, Mary nodded.
“I had to. There were some moments that he’s a little too young for.” The woman insisted.
“Like?”
“There’s the whole relationship with Red Riding Hood and Rumplestiltskin,” Mary said and Emma nodded.
“What relationship, I didn’t realize he had anything to do with her story,” Emma said, she was baiting Mary, wanting to see how the woman saw their relationship, to see if she was the only one who felt wrong about it.
“Well he saved her after a wolf attack, she was dying and he pleaded with her to make a deal so he could save her. It was oddly heroic given his nature, I mean, he’s not known for being a good guy. Everything has a price for him and to save her, she gave her loyalty. Slowly she started to fall for him and he made it clear his intentions for her weren’t pure. So naturally I took that out. He even released her from her deal to prove to her that he wasn’t manipulating her emotions; he didn’t do that to anyone else. Just her.” Emma swallowed, if only Mary realized she was talking about a dear friend who betrayed the War Table to save her own life.
“And?”
“She came back to him on her own will,” Mary said, grabbing a cookie herself. “She came back because she knew no one would love her as Rumplestiltskin did. That though a morally gray character, and a powerful Imp, his impression on her when she was dying made her realize he could feel such a day. Its morbidly romantic, but that’s how Red Riding Hood got her happy ending of sorts. Given he was locked away and she couldn’t tell anyone about their relationship, she didn’t mind.”
“What about The Royal family? Isn’t that betraying them?” Emma asked, Mary shrugged.
“No…I mean, they all willingly made their deals with him, why should hers be any different? They call him a scourge of their Kingdom but when they needed something, that’s who they turned to, who everyone went to. And he never turned them away, he never refused to help, everything has a price, it’s just like that here. If you need something, even emergency medical treatment you still have to pay. If you need clothes or shelter, you have to pay.” Emma sighed; leave it to the woman who was Snow White to use such logic.
“I need to go shower, clear my head,” Emma said and Mary nodded, looking at all her cookies.
“Ok, I’ll hopefully get these put away, unless I eat them all and then you’re on your own for dinner,” she said and Emma laughed, shaking her head, unable to believe this was her life now.
~*~
By the time the weddings arrived, the whole town had pitched in to help. It was the first wedding they had held in at least 10 years, so they decided to have a Storybrooke wide celebration. The town itself looked like something out of the fairy tale book as of late. Everything was decorated, down to the mailboxes and lamp posts. Emma shook her head at it all as she and Mary hurried to the church, she couldn’t believe all this for a wedding.
The church was so crowded; Emma doubted they’d be able to sit to witness this. But then she realized Archie had saved them seats and they smooshed in beside Billy who was now crushing Leroy. Emma looked around to see everyone dressed in their finest, talking amongst themselves. Granny was sitting at the first pew, glaring at Mr. Gold honestly looked as handsome as he could. Emma immediately felt disgusted with that thought and looked around for everyone else. Regina was at the opposite pew to Granny, also glaring. Sean was cradling Alexandra, who was dressed in a fluffy white dress that was sparkling in the sunlight that streamed in the stained glass windows.
Once the music began to play, everyone’s attention shifted to the back of the church as the doors opened and Ashley and Ruby made their way in, arm in arm. Ruby looked as stunning as she did when she first tried on the gown and Ashley looked like a Princess she truly was. She realized Ruby still wore the red cloak instead of a veil which made the whole church fall silent. And that look passed between everyone, remembering the past they couldn’t place. As the girls made it to the altar, and the priest began, Emma’s focus went back to Regina and Granny. Both women were on edge, and Emma almost wanted to place a bet on Regina speaking out at the allotted moment. But it didn’t happen, though it was clear she was biting her tongue, both literally and figuratively.
“Now presenting Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Gold and Mr. and Mrs. Sean Herman,” the man announced and the church was filled with applause. Emma was sure it was mostly for Sean and Ashley and not Ruby and apparently Timothy.
She watched as Timothy gently nuzzled Ruby, who was grinning happily. Ashley wrapped her arm around Ruby’s waist and pulled her over. The girls hugged tight and let go of one another, laughing happily. Emma had a feeling this would be the only happiness this town would be seeing, and it was all because in another life, a girl in a Red Cloak made a deal with the devil.
---
The End
That's it folks, its all over...well there might be a short story about the reception and the shenangins Mr. (and his new Mrs.) Gold get into in the name of annoying Regina...
Anyways, I hope you enjoyed it. Feed back is love! ♥
Part Six: The Vow
Note: I do not own “Once Upon A Time” and I do not make a profit from writing this story. I’m just amusing myself.
Authors Note: This is it folks! The last part!
Rating: T(For very strong language and sensual content)
Warnings: Language mostly
Genre: Angst/Drama
Word Count: 6,936
Cast: Ruby, Mr. Gold, Ashley Boyd, Sean Herman, Alexandra (Boyd-Herman), Emma Swan, Archie Hopper, Mary Margaret, Regina Mills, Granny, Billy, Leroy...
Summary: He wanted her to live and he wanted her loyalty, but most of all, he wanted her to make a deal…
Ruby walked up the Herman’s driveway, disbelief running through her mind. She couldn’t believe she was about to do this, trying to seduce her best friend’s boyfriend at the whim of her lover. As soon as Sean saw her, her automatically let her in, she put an extra sway in her step as she walked past him, hoping to catch his eye. When she turned on her heels to face him, he was preoccupied with his sandwich. Ruby shook her head and sat down on the stairs; Sean dropped down next to her and continued to eat.
She was kind of appalled but not surprised; after all, he was a boy. “Really Sean? You can’t even say hello?” she asked.
“Hi!” he burbled out though it was muffled by the bite of his sandwich.
“Wow, aren’t you charming?” she asked.
He swallowed then grinned. “Yeah, I am,” he said, smiling happily. “What brings you by?” he asked, taking another bite.
She shoved down the guilty feeling that swept through her. “Nothing, just wanted to say hi,” she said, and then arched her brows when he offered her a bite of his sandwich.
She shook her head, pushing the sandwich back to him. “Cool. Hi! Ash should be here soon with Alexandra,” he informed her.
“My, however will we pass the time?” she asked, batting her eyes.
“Want a sandwich?” he asked.
That was the last straw. “SEAN!” she snapped which made him laugh, almost choking on his sandwich. She patted him hard on the back and he laughed the whole while.
“Sorry, I couldn’t help it. It’s a damn good sandwich,” he said, she shook her head, cementing the fact she would never like someone her own age or young.
“Is that all you’re thinking about right now?” she asked, placing her hand on his knee. Usually at this point, any other man in town would be on her but nope, not him.
“No. I’m wondering when I should propose to Ashley…and if I have enough formula here…” Ruby hated herself more so after those words than she had her entire life. “And I’m wondering why you seem like you’re hitting on me…or trying to,” he observed.
She sighed, and confessed. “Mr. Gold asked me to, I think he wants to punish Ashley by having me betray her,” Sean dropped his beloved sandwich.
“What the fuck!?” he roared at her and she jerked away, eyes large.
“What?”
“Why are you ‘what’-ing me?! You’re the one with the fucked up douche boyfriend! All the names you called me after I was bullied into leaving Ash and then you pull this on his request!” Sean demanded.
Ruby winced at his fury. “I know, I feel awful and I’m not sure how far he even wanted me to go! I-I…God why do I love him?” she said, she buried her face into his shoulder as he sat back down and rubbed her back.
“Ruby, don’t take this the wrong way but I would never, ever sleep with you. Sure, you’re hot, you know it, hell! Even that blind lady down the street knows it! But I don’t like bad girls, not even good girls who look like one,” he said, she sighed, an old quote coming to her mind. I’m not bad, I’m just drawn that way…
But it was a relief nevertheless. “Thank God,” she muttered, making him laugh. “Forgive me?”
He smiled what she would consider a charming smile at her. “Always, you’re my friend and you were just trying to appease the asshole that you love,” he shrugged, “Can’t really hate you for that. I mean, I love my Dad and look what he did to me. He kept me from Ashley when I should have been there for her. But you forgave me, she forgave me, we’re all good.”
“You’re a good man Sean,” she told him and then nudged him. “So show me that ring,” she said, with a grin he produced a ring box from his pocket. There was an elegant diamond on a white gold setting, it was beautiful and she knew Ashley would love it. “It’s beautiful. She’ll love it,” Ruby told him.
He looked relieved, quickly stuffing the box back into his jeans. “Really?” he asked.
“Of course!” She insisted, “Though I’m sure you could give her a ring pop and she’d be happy, this is perfect for her. You have a good eye.”
He beamed, obviously feeling proud of himself. “Good to know, thanks Rubes, but if I were you, I’d go raise hell to your,” he stopped to shudder, “Lover.”
“I will. I mean, who in the hell does he think he is?” she said, standing quickly, hands on her hips.
“Unleash hell!” Sean cheered from the steps, “Don’t kill him!” he added quickly causing Ruby to roll her eyes.
“I wasn’t going to!” she insisted with a scoff.
“Good. Well, good luck, this never happened and I’m going to remake my sandwich,” he said, which made Ruby slap her hand to her face.
“This is why I could never like you anyways, you’re too damn weird and young,” she called to him as he headed for the kitchen and his laughter followed her out the door.
Ruby found herself hurrying towards Mr. Gold’s shop, knowing that’s where he’d be at this time of day. She threw the door open and shouted his name, he merely looked over at her like she was insane. She flipped the sign on the door with a vengeful look on her face that it sent Mary Margaret scurrying out the door.
“What is it Pet?” he asked, she leaned over the counter, dragged him by his tie into his office and slammed the door behind her. She pushed him back so he was sitting on the edge of his desk, still looking very alarmed and caught off guard.
She felt her fury rise, refusing to let it go as she met his eyes. “Why the fuck did you make me do that? Who in the hell do you think you are? Do you not get how I feel about you? I would do anything for you! And apparently I’m just as fucked up as you are for almost going along with it! And know what, it backfired, so fuck you!” She yelled her voice cracked due to the strain. He just sat there, stunned.
“What are you going on about?” he asked, she continued to glare, coughing hard, still finding it hard to breath.
“You know what I’m going on about. You wanted me to seduce Sean! Thank God the man is immune to me!” she said, “What kind of man asks that of his partner?!” she yelled, continuing to cough.
“Easy, easy,” he said. When he reached out to touch her, she backed off, out of his grasp, causing him to frown.
“Don’t you dare! What if it worked and we ended up in bed!?” she demanded and he simply blinked at her.
“I didn’t ask you to sleep with him,” he said mildly, “Just seduce.”
She let out a snort, slamming her hands to her hips. “But what do you think that leads to!? Why did you ask me in the first place!?” she just about screamed causing her voice to break and she dissolved into a coughing fit.
“To see if you would. I need to know I can trust you fully,” he said, “To know I could continue on with the next step of our relationship.”
She continued to glare at him, furious he was so calm. “What do you mean?” she panted out, as he passed her a water bottle from behind him on the desk. She drank quickly, shoving it back at him.
“By marrying you, of course, wouldn’t that make you happy?” He asked, looking wounded when she shouted ‘no’. “Why, I thought you loved me,” he said.
Her eyes narrowed dangerously, her voice was a soft hiss. “Don’t pull that shit. You know I do but how can two fucked up people like us have a normal relationship?” she asked.
“Easily, my dear. Do you want to be happy? Couldn’t I make you happy?” he asked, his words moved her and she hung her head.
“Yeah…but I don’t know…” Ruby said with a sigh, he pulled something out of his pocket and held it out to her.
His eyes locked hers, “You do know, marry me, we’re allowed to be happy, aren’t we?” he asked, and she looked from the ring to his face, and the sincerity touched her. She gingerly took the ring and studied it; it was a gold band with a large diamond with two rubies on either side of it. Whenever she had envisioned a ring for this moment, this was it. And she wasn’t surprised he knew. She swallowed and looked from the ring to him, and then she slipped it on her finger. It was the perfect, as was everything he ever gave her.
“Yes.” She said.
The smile that lit his face made her fury finally die, “Really, Pet?” he asked, she nodded, nothing felt more right as the next words left her mouth.
“I will marry you, Timothy Gold.” He pulled her to him and kissed her deeply, he wrapped his arms around her.
He broke the kiss, nuzzling her neck gently. “Now I know what it’s like to be happy,” he whispered in her ear and she smiled because now, for the first time in what seemed like ever, she felt it too.
The next day, Ruby returned to work for the first time and she smiled at the warm reception she received when she crossed the threshold of the diner. In fact, she startled half the people there by almost crying.
“Oh God, you’re really on the rag, aren’t you?” Leroy asked in mock horror as he handed her a tissue on his way out the door. She laughed and accepted the tissue and planted a big kiss on his cheek.
“No, just really happy,” she said.
He laughed harshly, “Happy to be a waitress in a dead end town?” he asked, but there was a warm smile on his lips.
“Yeah,” she said grinning broadly, “it’s not so bad when people love you.”
“Well you are loved, Doll. If we lost you, we’d lose the prettiest girl in town and we can’t have that,” he said with a wink and strolled out the door. She made a mental note to make sure his next meal was on the house as she grabbed her apron and started her shift. Granny came from the kitchen to give her a hug and a kiss on the cheek, Ruby held her tight. Her Grandmother hadn’t done this in years and she hated to admit it but she missed the affection.
“I love you,” Ruby whispered as clung on her tight, Gran looked at her like she was insane.
She pulled back and studied her with a narrow eye. “Are you pregnant?” she demanded causing Ruby to shriek in dismay.
Ruby shook her head furiously, “No! I’m just happy!” the girl insisted as her Grandmother continued to look at her suspiciously.
“Whatever you say,” Granny said, as she went back into the kitchen. Ruby laughed and headed over to Emma and Ashley who were waiting in her section.
She paused at the end of the table, hip cocked, ready for their orders. “So what can I get you ladies, besides the cinnamon hot chocolate?” Ruby asked, Ashley was grinning ear to ear, looking ready to burst.
“How about you in a bridesmaid dress, Maid of Honor?” she squealed, promptly throwing herself at Ruby, who hugged her back just as hard. Ashley only let go when Ruby started coughing but Ruby smiled.
“Of course,” Ruby said as she pulled back, that’s when Ashley caught a gleam of something and stopped.
“Wh-what’s that on your finger, Miss?” she asked, seizing Ruby’s hand and holding it close to her face.
“A ring?” Ruby asked and Ashley shook her head.
“That’s a…Oh my God!” she lowered her voice and pulled Ruby close, “Did he ask you to marry him?”
Ruby couldn’t help but smile. “Yeah, yeah he did. And I said yes,” Ruby informed her as Emma leaned in.
“Why? He’s a skeevy old man, how happy can he make you?” she asked.
Ruby looked at Emma, who was ever the cynic. “Support, love, sex, all that kinda stuff,” she replied honestly.
“Screw bridesmaid! Double wedding!” Ashley cheered and a couple people looked up. Ruby shot her a glance and Ashley attempted to quiet her voice.
“I doubt he’ll go for that, but I could try,” Ruby said with a shrug and Ruby felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned to see Gold behind her. He nodded his head towards the back of the diner. Emma and Ashley watched with interest as they were talking closely, quietly. His whole demeanor changed, he seemed more at peace and, dare they imagine, happy. Emma was still disgusted and conflicted with the very idea but she couldn’t help but notice how he looked at her. It was a look of contention and adoration and he wore a small smile on his lips as they spoke.
“Should we feel bad for eavesdropping?” Emma asked in a whisper and Ashley shook her head.
“Nope it’s what this town does. We don’t have much to do…” The maid said causing Emma to snicker. They watched as the couple parted, Gold left and Ruby went back to their table, looking stunned.
“Apparently he’s down with the idea. And he said that he’ll buy your dress, Ash,” Ashley threw herself onto Ruby once more. “I know! It surprised the shit out of me too.”
Ashley squealed in her ear. “Ruby, we’re getting married!”
“People are going to think we’re getting married if you don’t stop that,” Ruby said with a laugh.
“Tell Granny you’re not feeling good and leave with me, I want to go dress hunting!” Ashley declared and Ruby shook her head.
“I can’t kiddo, I need to work,” she replied, Ashley shook her head with an impish grin.
“Not anymore. You’re marrying the richest man in town, you’re going to be a trophy wife,” Ashley wiggled her eyebrows and tried to leer, Ruby roll her eyes.
“Just what I always wanted,” she drawled sarcastically, but with the pain starting to swell in her chest from each breath she did realize maybe she should take the day off. “I’ll take the day off, but I’m not looking,” Ruby said and Ashley cheered. “Coming with?” Ruby asked and Emma shook her head.
“I should say no, but I can’t pass this up,” she said as the trio headed out to the one dress shop in town.
According to Ruby and Ashley all dresses there were handmade, except for a few that were sent in but nothing could rival those gowns. Emma wasn’t too interested, she wasn’t the marrying type, sure eventually she could settle down but she enjoyed being her own person and not having to rely on anyone else.
“Oh Miss Boyd, Ruby, I wondered when you two would be by,” the woman behind the desk said jovially.
Ashley just smiled blissfully, “Word travels fast, huh?” Ruby said and the woman laughed.
“Yes and no. I know because Mr. Gold requested something for you and informed me of your upcoming nuptials,” The woman replied, Ruby arched her brows.
“Really? He did that?” she asked and the woman nodded.
“Yes he did and just wait until you see what he ordered,” the woman was practically bouncing, Ruby exchanged glances with Emma. The woman rushed away and Ashley set Alexandra’s car seat down, as the infant slept on. When the woman set the box on the counter and Ruby opened it, Emma was shocked at the noise that came out of the Ruby’s mouth. It was almost a scream; the girl lifted her hands to her face, her mouth hanging open.
“Oh. My. God.”
“What? It’s just a red wedding dress?” Emma asked, Ruby shook her head and pulled the gown out of the box.
“No. No. This is much more than that! It’s a Maria Karin Couture wedding dress!” Ruby said, her voice full of awe and rushed off to try it on.
When she returned, she walked to the mirrors and everyone in the shop looked stunned. It was a beautiful black and red strapless gown with black flower embellishment. It was perfectly Ruby to the point that Ashley was in tears of joy.
“Wow,” Emma said, stunned, she wasn’t a fan of the man but this simply blew her away, to see Ruby almost crying over a gown she hadn’t expected was touching.
“Ruby, he wanted you to have this as well,” the shop keeper said, and they watched as the woman placed a floor length red cloak on the girl.
Then it was like everything stopped. Emma felt like she was the only one that took a breath, Ruby was looking at the mirror with a look. Ashley wore the same look on her face, it was like they were trying to remember…and Emma shuddered as she realized her son was right. Ruby was reaching up and touching her face and she looked pained. Then she reached for her own reflection, running her red colored nails over the glass and then her eyes rolled back and she collapsed. That was enough to break the spell on Ashley who rushed to her side, calling her name. Emma looked around to see Archie right outside, walking Pongo, knowing he was the closest thing to a Doctor in the second she rushed for the door.
“Archie! Get in here, Ruby…fainted…or something!” she said and he passed the leash to Emma and hurried in. Emma waited by the door, holding on tight to the dog who wanted nothing more than to pounce on Ruby. But Emma watched as soon as Archie saw the cloak; he paused like Ashley and the others, seemingly falling into a trance. He snapped out of it quicker than the others and checked Ruby’s pulse, he gently called her name and she seemed to be waking up.
“Hey there, welcome back Ruby, are you alright?” he asked and she nodded and he slowly pulled her into a sitting position.
“Yeah, I guess I had a wicked case of déjà-vu or something,” Ruby said and followed Archie’s finger as he moved it in her line of sight.
“I think you’ve been pressing yourself too hard. I would feel better if you go to the hospital to rule out a seizure,” he told her and she shook her head.
She gave him a weak smile. “Nah, I’m alright, just help me up, please,” she said and he grasped her hands and pulled her to her feet.
Ruby watched him look over her in her dress, a sad smile on his lips. “You look beautiful,” he said, “He’s a lucky man,” He whispered in her ear and she smiled.
“Thank you,” she said and she gave him a hug. She looked to Ashley and to Emma, still pale as a ghost. “I want to go home,” she said.
“Where’s home?” Emma asked and Ruby answered without hesitation.
“With him.”
“Ok then,” Ashley said and she headed into the backroom with Ruby and helped her out of the dress.
“I’ll be taking the dress though and I’m getting a second for the reception,” Ruby said as she passed the shop keeper, who nodded numbly, looking like she should be the one leaving. The three headed out the door and into the cool day, holding on to Ruby as they ushered her home.
Emma was sitting in a chair in Mr. Gold’s library as Ruby lay still on the couch, head in Ashley’s lap. Alexandra was sleeping soundly still, after everything that happened. Unable to sit still, Emma began to wander, looking at all the books and her stomach knotted as her eyes graced a title.
Once Upon A Time, the same book her son, the one that started his whole theory. She skimmed the pages and it wasn’t the exact same. There was some pages she hadn’t seen, and with good reason. They focused on the death and rebirth of the woman known as Little Red Riding Hood, and the fact she was being broken down by Rumplestiltskin the moment she made a deal with him. She figured Mary probably ripped them out before giving the book to Henry, not wanting him to see the bleeding Red Riding Hood illustrated on the page with Rumplestiltskin leaning over her body.
Emma looked to Ruby, then back to the book; it made her sick to realize that she was reading about her. She read the pages of Rumplestiltskin and Red Riding Hood, how he used his deal to make her lose all she was, so she could be his. It intrigued her that it alluded that it was out of love, that the Imp saved her because he loved the hooded girl, but she couldn’t see it because she didn’t want to. Emma didn’t want to think that the most powerful and feared creature of the book could be Mr. Gold and that he was damning Ruby to him in both realities. She skimmed more pages, the ones she hadn’t seen and found a passage that stunned her.
“Watch over Ella for me, I will remain here for you, but you must protect her. She will need you when I’m gone,” he said and she nodded.
“In this world and the next, I vow it.”
Later that night, the Red Riding Hood found herself weaving through the maze of tunnels that lead to Rumpelstiltskin’s prison. The Imp looked delighted at the sight of her, he always did, the girl’s stomach fluttered. No man had looked upon her with such a gaze, she felt like she was the fairest person that walked the lands when his eyes locked on her.
“It is done,” She whispered and he reached through the bars, beckoning her closer, she wondered if he was willing her to do so since she easily walked closer. His fingers grazed her skin and cupped her face, a giggle escaped his lips.
“Such a good girl,” He praised, she was starting not to loathe his touch as much as she used to. “My Red Hood,” he purred.
“Why do you speak to me like I am your lover? Yes, I have known ecstasy at your touch but we have not consummated,” she said, annoyed, the Imp grinned. “You and your deal is the reason I have allowed it to continue. You make me feel this way.”
“Because, dear, I love you, and you’re as good as mine now. But it is not my deal that makes you feel as such. I will release you of our deal for one day. When you return to me by your own will, you will realize, it is not my will or my deal that is keeping you at my side. It is your own doing, like it or not, I’m the closest to a Knight in shining armor that you’ll ever have. No mere man will ever cherish you as I have, all this time.” Rumplestiltskin said and she felt a power rush through her. She raced from the prison, out into the moonlit night, his words heavy in her mind.
By sunset the next day-
“Find a good read, Miss Swan?” came Mr. Gold’s voice and Emma was so startled she dropped the book. Ruby was glaring at her from the couch, looking like she just woke up. Alexandra fussed in her carseat and Ashley nudged it with her foot, rocking it back and forth, soothing the child.
“Uh. Sure. I was feeling whimsical,” she said and shoved the book back on the shelf. Wanting to know what happened but as she watched, she knew her answer. Mr. Gold and Ruby were staring at each other like star crossed lovers, like the looks her own supposed parents wore several times in the book.
“I see. Ruby, dear, how are you?” he asked, swiftly turning his attention to his fiancé who sat up and smiled sleepily at him.
Ruby smiled weakly. “I’m ok, I promise, I just fainted. I guess I wasn’t as well as I thought,” she insisted and Emma watched, in annoyance, as he dropped to his knees and stroked her face.
“Then you must rest,” he said and she nodded and gave Ashley a hug, then nodded to Emma. He climbed to his feet and helped her up and escorted her from the room.
“Ashley, do you think Ruby should do this?” Emma asked and Ashley nodded.
“She loves him, I want her happy. I know you hate him, and I may be afraid of him still but he’s good to her. That’s all I need,” Ashley said.
“It feels like he’s using her…” Emma said, sighing, wishing in this moment she hadn’t seen the book or his son’s crazy theory.
“For what? Sex? She’d give him that for free. If he wants companionship, why not, he needs it. Ruby enjoys his company too.” The girl said and lifted her daughter into her arms. “We should all be happy, right?”
“Yeah, but-“
“But you don’t want to believe I can make Ruby happy? That I cannot provide a normal, stable, healthy relationship for her?” Mr. Gold asked as he returned, there was a sly smile on his lips. “I will assure you I can, just because there is a bit of an age gap-“
Emma arched her brows, “A bit?” she asked, caught off guard when he laughed.
“Age is nothing but a number.”
“Spoken like a true cradle robber,” Came a voice as Regina stormed into the library.
“Ah, Madame Mayor, what can I do for you?” Mr. Gold asked, his voice light, Emma hadn’t heard that tone but could tell that he was agitated at the sight of Regina in his home. His fingers flexed their grip on cane, and she noted all his knuckles were white when he clasped the handle again.
The Mayor stopped directly in front of him, toe to toe with him. “I’ve heard you are to wed the girl,” she said, her voice was cold, Emma’s brows remained arched, that was Regina’s tone usually reserved for her.
Mr. Gold smiled slowly, “It’s true, I do.” He said, mildly, Emma crossed and stood beside Ashley, almost wanting to shield her from what was happening.
“You cannot,” Regina state and he snorted softly, holding back a laugh.
“Oh? And why not?” he asked, his voice continued to be mild, almost amused.
“Because she is a girl who is more than half your age whose goal is probably just to get into your pocketbook, you’re blinded by her…charm and beauty to see it.” Regina said, her jaw was clenched and Gold chuckled softly.
“If you’re insinuating I’m pussy whipped you could just come out and say it, we’re all adults here. And the wee one doesn’t have a clue to what we’re talking about.”
“Fine, I think that you’re thinking with the wrong head when it comes to Ruby. Everyone in town has had her and you’re the last on her list. You will not go through with this,” she growled and Emma knew she should be leaving but she couldn’t, this was too fascinating to watch. “You don’t deserve to get even one happy ending in your life.”
Mr. Gold’s features became eerily calm, which made Emma shiver. “That’s where you’re wrong, dear, I believe I do. And if you please, I would prefer you not insinuate that Ruby is nothing more than a…what’s the term…gold digging slut. Because she isn’t and once again, though you do not want to listen, I will be going through this. I adore the girl and want to give her everything. I have finally found the courage to do so and nothing will stop me. I will ask you nicely, to leave, please, and I’ll consider putting you on the guest list,” he said and Ashley and Emma exchanged glances as Regina’s eyes lit with fury at the word ‘please’. But she turned on her heel and marched out, the main door’s slam echoing through the house. “My my, what a dramatic exit,” he mused, shaking his head. “I’m sorry you had to witness that, Ladies, ALL of you,” he said and they watched as Ruby poked her head into the door. She was grinning as she walked back in.
“How do you always know where I am?” she asked.
“It’s a gift.” He said dryly, “I’m sorry you had to hear,” he apologized, Ruby shrugged.
“I would have heard from the bedroom anyways,” she told him and she wrapped her arms around him. “Thank you for defending me,” she whispered and he pulled away, lifting her chin.
“Why wouldn’t I? We are a couple and I do not take kindly to people talking down about you, I never have and I never will.” He said causing her to beam at him, she pressed a kiss to his forehead and Emma watched as he leaned into her touch. It was oddly moving, especially for him.
“I love you,” Ruby said, so soft Emma could hardly hear her.
“And I love you,” he told her, and nudged her gently. “Time for bed,” he said and she nodded. She waved to Emma and Ashley once more and headed back out of the room. “I do want to apologize again, I did not wish for Regina to make such accusations and points in front of either of you.”
“It’s alright, it’s good to see her use that tone on someone else,” Emma said and he laughed softly.
“Yes, that tone is usually reserved for the people she can’t tolerate…which would be us,” he confirmed, “But I must ask you both to leave now, Ruby will never rest, knowing you remain here. I would suggest giving her a few more days to rest before visiting again,” he said, he walked both of them to the door and when he opened it, Archie was about to knock.
“Oh, hello, sorry to interrupt,” he said and Gold shook his head.
“No worries Doctor Hopper, Ruby is upstairs. Third door on the right,” and with a nod, Archie made his way in and upstairs.
“I thought you said no more company,” Ashley teased which surprised Emma, especially when Gold laughed.
“That is true but this is more of a professional visit. I do not trust that incompetent Whale, I know Dr. Hopper will be able to see to Ruby and make sure she’s alright,” he explained and Emma nodded, she had to agree with him.
“Alright, goodbye Mr. Gold,” Emma said as she helped Ashley out the door.
“Miss Swan, Miss Boyd, wee one,” he said and gently closed the door behind them.
“Well that was…different,” Emma told the girl who was making cooing noises at her daughter.
“It was. It’s good to see such a protect side to Mr. Gold. I think it endeared me to him, it makes me feel better that Ruby will be ok,” she said and Emma sighed.
“I hate to say it but yeah…” Emma said and Ashley smiled.
“Good! But I gotta get home, Sean will be off work soon! I can’t wait to tell him about today, it was nuts,” Ashley said with a laugh and Emma nodded.
“Sure was,” Emma confirmed and watched the girl head off in the opposite direction.
Now alone, Emma fought to understand all she leaned and what she almost had. If anything she wanted to know if Red Riding Hood returned, though deep inside, she knew she did. When she returned home, she found Mary Margaret making cookies, a lot of cookies. The counter and tables were covered in the finished and cooling batches.
“Are you alright?” Emma asked, mildly alarm and Mary nodded.
“Yeah, I’m just baking for my class, why?” she asked and Emma shook her head.
“I thought it was because of David,” Mary sighed.
“…it is a little. I may or may not have kissed him when I walked him home the other day,” Mary said and winced at Emma’s reaction.
“MARY!”
Mary’s face turned pink, “What? He kissed me and I kissed him back and we almost made out on his couch before his wife walked in. I’m going to hell,” Mary muttered, smacking her face into her palm.
“You are not. You can’t help you fell for him and feel the way you do. But I have something to distract you with!” Emma declared, taking a cookie.
“What?” Mary asked, moving some cookies to a cooling rack.
“The book, the one you gave Henry, is it the only one?” Mary shook her head. “Where did you get it?”
Mary tilted her head, “Mr. Gold gave it to me, why?”
Emma just sighed. “Figures. Did you censor it in any way before you gave it to Henry?” she asked, Mary nodded.
“I had to. There were some moments that he’s a little too young for.” The woman insisted.
“Like?”
“There’s the whole relationship with Red Riding Hood and Rumplestiltskin,” Mary said and Emma nodded.
“What relationship, I didn’t realize he had anything to do with her story,” Emma said, she was baiting Mary, wanting to see how the woman saw their relationship, to see if she was the only one who felt wrong about it.
“Well he saved her after a wolf attack, she was dying and he pleaded with her to make a deal so he could save her. It was oddly heroic given his nature, I mean, he’s not known for being a good guy. Everything has a price for him and to save her, she gave her loyalty. Slowly she started to fall for him and he made it clear his intentions for her weren’t pure. So naturally I took that out. He even released her from her deal to prove to her that he wasn’t manipulating her emotions; he didn’t do that to anyone else. Just her.” Emma swallowed, if only Mary realized she was talking about a dear friend who betrayed the War Table to save her own life.
“And?”
“She came back to him on her own will,” Mary said, grabbing a cookie herself. “She came back because she knew no one would love her as Rumplestiltskin did. That though a morally gray character, and a powerful Imp, his impression on her when she was dying made her realize he could feel such a day. Its morbidly romantic, but that’s how Red Riding Hood got her happy ending of sorts. Given he was locked away and she couldn’t tell anyone about their relationship, she didn’t mind.”
“What about The Royal family? Isn’t that betraying them?” Emma asked, Mary shrugged.
“No…I mean, they all willingly made their deals with him, why should hers be any different? They call him a scourge of their Kingdom but when they needed something, that’s who they turned to, who everyone went to. And he never turned them away, he never refused to help, everything has a price, it’s just like that here. If you need something, even emergency medical treatment you still have to pay. If you need clothes or shelter, you have to pay.” Emma sighed; leave it to the woman who was Snow White to use such logic.
“I need to go shower, clear my head,” Emma said and Mary nodded, looking at all her cookies.
“Ok, I’ll hopefully get these put away, unless I eat them all and then you’re on your own for dinner,” she said and Emma laughed, shaking her head, unable to believe this was her life now.
~*~
By the time the weddings arrived, the whole town had pitched in to help. It was the first wedding they had held in at least 10 years, so they decided to have a Storybrooke wide celebration. The town itself looked like something out of the fairy tale book as of late. Everything was decorated, down to the mailboxes and lamp posts. Emma shook her head at it all as she and Mary hurried to the church, she couldn’t believe all this for a wedding.
The church was so crowded; Emma doubted they’d be able to sit to witness this. But then she realized Archie had saved them seats and they smooshed in beside Billy who was now crushing Leroy. Emma looked around to see everyone dressed in their finest, talking amongst themselves. Granny was sitting at the first pew, glaring at Mr. Gold honestly looked as handsome as he could. Emma immediately felt disgusted with that thought and looked around for everyone else. Regina was at the opposite pew to Granny, also glaring. Sean was cradling Alexandra, who was dressed in a fluffy white dress that was sparkling in the sunlight that streamed in the stained glass windows.
Once the music began to play, everyone’s attention shifted to the back of the church as the doors opened and Ashley and Ruby made their way in, arm in arm. Ruby looked as stunning as she did when she first tried on the gown and Ashley looked like a Princess she truly was. She realized Ruby still wore the red cloak instead of a veil which made the whole church fall silent. And that look passed between everyone, remembering the past they couldn’t place. As the girls made it to the altar, and the priest began, Emma’s focus went back to Regina and Granny. Both women were on edge, and Emma almost wanted to place a bet on Regina speaking out at the allotted moment. But it didn’t happen, though it was clear she was biting her tongue, both literally and figuratively.
“Now presenting Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Gold and Mr. and Mrs. Sean Herman,” the man announced and the church was filled with applause. Emma was sure it was mostly for Sean and Ashley and not Ruby and apparently Timothy.
She watched as Timothy gently nuzzled Ruby, who was grinning happily. Ashley wrapped her arm around Ruby’s waist and pulled her over. The girls hugged tight and let go of one another, laughing happily. Emma had a feeling this would be the only happiness this town would be seeing, and it was all because in another life, a girl in a Red Cloak made a deal with the devil.
---
The End
That's it folks, its all over...well there might be a short story about the reception and the shenangins Mr. (and his new Mrs.) Gold get into in the name of annoying Regina...
Anyways, I hope you enjoyed it. Feed back is love! ♥