Do We Have A Deal?

Belle took the long road, leading away from her Father’s estate. Away from a fate she she did not decide, and could not allow to happen. She had to get away from Gaston. But how far could she get, the pampered young woman from court, when soldiers searched for her. They would drag her back to a man she did not love, and take any chance she had of seeing the world.
The Dark One is said to grant your wish, for a price. “I can make sure they never follow you again, dearie. For a price.” the Imp giggled as he walked around the young woman.
“Name it,” Belle had heard stories of those who made a deal with Rumpelstiltskin. She should have feared him, but for some unknown reason, she didn’t.
“I can make the kingdom forget all about you, wipe you from existence, so you may travel without fear of being caught. No one will remember you, or that you were betrothed.” His offer made her hesitate. Did she want to be forgotten completely? She could be free this way. Gaston would take her away from her Father as soon as they were wed anyhow. This way she could live her life how she saw fit. No one telling her what to do or what to wear or how to act. She could just be Belle, and they would be none the wiser.
“And what would you receive in return?” Ah, the key question. What would Rumpelstiltskin ask for in return? Gold? Riches?
“You,” the imp giggled again. Belle’s face fell. Why would she promise herself to The Dark One when she was running from giving herself to another man? “I am on a journey of sorts myself, dearie. A man craves companionship…This is a deal you don’t get every day, dearie. You will get to see the world, and all that is asked for in return is someone to see it with.” Of course Rumpelstiltskin surely would be after more than someone to talk to on a long journey. But how could Belle pass this chance up? She could see the world and not have to worry about Gaston’s soldiers searching for her around every corner. She would be protected with The Dark One. No one would remember her.
“So…Do we have a deal?”

Once Upon A Time (C) ABC

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