The Curse of True Love

Dreams & Arguments

Chapter Summary: Ben and Mal talk after the confrontation with Hades. Mal reveals a secret no one but Evie knows. And they have to deal with some differing views about how to deal with Hades.

A/N: Feel free to comment. I'd love to hear your all's thoughts and if you have any feedback or suggestions let me know! But please be kind!

Ben's POV

Ben was not having a very good day. At first it was amazing he proposed to Mal and she said yes. And then they got to bring more VK's to Auradon which was exhilarating and wonderful. He got to bring the dream that he always wanted alive and he hoped he could continue this tradition and dream. But that's where everything went downhill after closing the barrier Hades tried to escape but no that wasn't the worst of it he used his ember to blast at his friends and fiance. And then he started to drain her power. He couldn't help but feel worried he wasn't sure what they should do about Hades yet or the barrier but he knew he needed to stay calm and composed his kingdom was hysterical if they knew or saw that he was worried they would too. He needs to be strong, showing emotion doesn't mean that isn't strong but at the moment he needs to be careful for the sake of his people. But he also couldn't help but feel worried about what Mal wanted to tell him.

Ben fidgeted with his ring waiting for Mal to arrive. He knew that there were going to be some difficult decisions ahead but he knew one thing: he wasn't going to close the barrier forever. Ben knows his parents and the people of Auradon, he knows his parents will suggest that they close it so that he gives up on his dream. But he can't do that. It's not about the dream but wanting to help those kids. It's not that he doesn't want to protect Auradon, it's that there has to be another way than forever closing them away. He hopes that Mal will agree with him. He doesn't want to close the barrier unless they have no choice if there's no other choice, no hope, no nothing. He wants to fight for the VK's just like how he fought for Carlos, Jay, Evie, and Mal. Ben couldn't help but pace around the room waiting for Mal to come in. She was currently talking to Evie out in the hall about something. He was so deep in thought he hadn't realized Mal snuck back in.

His nerves vanished when he heard her voice. "Someone's nervous." Mal jokes with a mischievous smile. Oh he loved her smile. It was cheeky but adorable at the same time he couldn't help but a lovesick smile form on his lips when he looked at her.

"Hi, sorry I guess I'm just nervous."

"About what?"

"Everything." She sighed in relief, "I think we all are." She moved closer and wrapped her arms around his waist. "...I think it will be okay but it won't be easy." Ben snorted, "It never can be simple eh?" "No, sadly not." Ben caressed Mal's cheek, "What is it you wanted to tell me?" Her expression was crestfallen, she looked down with fear evident on her face. Ben tilted her chin up to meet his gaze. "I'm not gonna be mad if that's what you're worried about." Mal took a deep breath and said, "...It's about Hades."

"What about him?" He asked softly as he led Mal to the couch.

"He's my..." Her voice trembled and she continued to say, "Dad."

Ben's mind went blank. Hades was Mal's father? He couldn't believe it. He blinked several times as he asked, "W-What do you mean?" Confusion cut across his face as he looked at Mal.

She took a deep breath, "He's my dad."

"Hades is your father?" Ben asked.

"Yes." She confirmed.

"And he tried to take your powers."

"Well..." She paused but then her expression conveyed defeat, "Yes he did."