The Frog Prince // Mr. Gold

010. DOUBTS

♛ MR. GOLD'S POV ♛

Every day, I guessed what could have been once my eyes opened to the truth.

Many events might not have happened and I took note that my decisions had consequences; Magic comes with a price. I knew that much. Yet, why did my life have to be what it was before I became—something different? Something dark. Before becoming the Dark One.

What had I deserved to lose any grasp of hope and happiness? I think of it so much that it clouds my judgment—greed to keep what is precious to me close.

Since remembering of the truth; Our home. Our past. Our lives. I walk amongst everyone, pretending to be oblivious to the truth. It is hard. Especially with Tiana or should I say Crystal walking around with no memory. She is precious to me and she doesn't remember a thing. Yet again she is oblivious. This should be something I'm used to but that doesn't mean her clueless gaze hurt any less. She didn't look at me like before with love. I'm in the same situation yet again, guiding her to realize her emotions. I thought she was dead and would never come back. But Regina and Joseph Mills obviously lied to cause me despair. To rid me of the last happiness I had left.

My attempts to draw her close seem to be working nonetheless. She held my hand and finally gave me that same expression she had many times before. Isn't that a sign of progress? Sure it is. I'll keep telling myself that until my face turns blue.

What I didn't expect, while locking the front door of the shop was witnessing Joseph Mills slithering his way beside Crystal. She looked ahead, hugging her body with a wiry smile on her face. And he, spoke as if they were old friends. My head followed their movements. Crystal caught me staring for a second and for some unknown reason, she left her sight from mine just as quickly. Joseph doesn't seem to notice my appearance. He's so busy speaking, he barely notices anything but Crystal.

Joseph Mills is a man no one should trust. I can't even trust him. Everything about Joseph smells of shit. In this world and the next. But does he remember? Is he like Regina and I? The only ones who know the truth of what used to be? My free hands jingle the keys while my lips tighten. Crystal isn't aware of who she is allowing into her life. The very man who caused us pain is right underneath her nose.

I have to do something. Anything to protect her. After years and months of believing she died, I won't let anything or anyone separate us.

***

In the shadows, I follow them at a safe distance in the security of my car. It doesn't take long for the pair to step on the property where her apartment belonged. Across the street, the vehicle I have had for many years, parks and rumbles to a quiet purr until the engine quits for the time being. My hands grip the wheel while my mouth turns into a tight frown. It takes a while for Crystal to get away from Joseph. At one point, I could have sworn the woman would knock him off his feet but she kept her composure; Thanking him with a nod while slipping into the apartment building.

"From what I know, your rather dreamy home is that way," I called out, leaning against my car moments after Joseph realized Crystal wasn't going to thank him for his kindness. Exhibiting some competence that I grew to notice. She left Joseph to stand in silence. And all I can say is, good girl. Good for seeing right through him and escaping any tricks he may have hidden underneath his sleeves.

Joseph raised his head. A hint of annoyance flashed upon his face just for it to disappear to replace it with arrogance while I walked across the street.

Joseph hardly spoke to me—when we did speak, there was always tension. Both parties forever endeavor to outwit the other with passive-aggressive words. It was all fun and games, but now it is a need to keep others safe.