Golden Hope: Mr. Gold X Reader

Art Supplies

It had been another long day. My mind was exhausted from teaching art, managing the school play and teaching the dance group - the latter two being after school activities. I went into work at 6:00 that morning and didn't leave until 8:00 in the evening, which was actually about half an hour early for my typical time.

I had been begging the Board of Education to hire more teachers for the fine arts, but the mayor - Regina Mills - kept shutting down any of my plans. It seemed she hated me. She further made sure her son - Henry Mills - wasn't part of my classes or after school programs. I don't recall ever doing anything to her, but if I did - I sure was sorry for it.

Nevertheless, I fundraised all I could and advocated for the arts' budgets to be raised, but in return they lowered my salary. I had to sell my house and move into an apartment with Mary Margaret. Of course, that wasn't so bad. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with her and we were able to take care of each other.

I checked my watch in disbelief- it was already 8:45 pm - and I was still dedicating myself to my children. At least, I considered my students to be my children. I sighed at the fact I was still single, but - being so dedicated to my job - I really didn't have time for a serious relationship.

I'd just finished grabbing all the supplies the children would need for their art projects, stage design, and dance costumes. The cart was filled with canvases, paint, tule, and glitter. To me, it was a beautiful sight - I could already imagine the students' smiles.

It was unfortunate that my bank account wouldn't share in the delight. The total for the supplies came to $99.26 and after paying my rent and bills last week - I only had $100.05 to my name. I sighed and headed to the noodle isle to buy some ramen for the next couple nights' dinner.

My whole body felt stiff and tired. I took a second to stretch before entering isle 5 to grab my dinner. Snap, crackle, pop, "Rice Krispies," I laughed under my breath at the sound of my aching muscles.

"Did you say something, dearie?" I turned around and saw Mr. Gold. He seemed to be eyeing some of the Asian sauces they had.

"Oh - I was just making a joke under my breath," I let out a small laugh and ruffled my hair - when I lifted my arms, it popped loudly multiple times. "It's good to see you, Mr. Gold. I don't typically have time to stop by your shop. I hope everything's going well."

Everyone in town seemed to be afraid of Mr. Gold but he seemed like a gentleman to me. He always dressed nicely and called me 'dearie.' But perhaps the icing on the golden-cake was his accent.

"It surely is," he smiled towards me then gestured at my shopping basket, "it's kind of you to buy the children supplies for their class and activities. I trust the school will be compensating you for the cost of the supplies?"

"If paying me to do my job counts as compensation," I let out a tired laugh. "I still haven't been able to convince the mayor that these supplies and activities are vital for the children's growth. Don't suppose you'd put a word in for me?" I winked trying to be playful.

My attempt must have worked because Mr. Gold chuckled. "Dearie, there's little I can say that will change convince the mayor on this matter. But, I would like to buy those supplies - for the kids."

I gaped at him in shock, "O-oh, Mr. Gold, the supplies - they're a bit expensive." I said the past word a bit hesitantly. It was known around town that Mr. Gold was wealthy, but I couldn't just expect him to fund my class. He didn't even have a child at our school.

"If it's expensive then I'll keep the receipt and use it as a tax write-off." He smiled and raised one eye-brow as if to see if I would make another excuse.

"Mr. Gold - that's very kind of you." I felt my cheeks blush and smiled at him. How could anyone be afraid of such a sweet man?

He suggested that we check out the supplies now then we could both continue grocery shopping afterwards. After everything had been purchased, he took the receipt and I took the supplies.

"Mr. Gold - I know you're a busy man, but please feel free to stop by the class or activities tomorrow. You can be there when the students get their gifts and they can thank you." I tilted my head and smiled sweetly, hoping he'd accept my offer.

"Dearie, your thanks is more than enough," he leaned on his cane and was about to say more but I interrupted.

Or, at least, my stomach did.

"Oh - I'm sorry, Mr. Gold," I could feel my face growing hot. "I've just been so busy today, that I neglected to eat." I felt embarrassed to admit it, but it was the truth.

Mr. Gold gave me a sympathetic look, "how about we go to Granny's Diner? I'll trade you dinner for your companionship this evening."

"Mr. Gold, you've already done so much. I couldn't accept any more!"

"I bought the supplies for a tax write-off and I'm glad to treat you to dinner so that I don't have to eat alone." Mr. Gold paused for a second to see my response.

"Sounds like a fair deal to me," I couldn't help but smile. "Careful - you seem to be becoming my knight in shining armor."