When Worlds Collide- - ♥

[Lady Odyssey]

Once Upon a Time...

Will edit plot later.

 

[byeol]

Storybrooke, Maine


A slight sigh was heard as Ophelia Louve took a look at the pot that lay in pieces, soil scattered beneath it. Her face was filled with obvious disappointment at the small catastrophe in front of her. She hated making mistakes, especially in front of costumers. Clearing her throat, the look not disappearing from her face, Lee swallowed. "I, um. I'm sorry about that, I'll get another, nicer plant." Her lips twitched to a small smile before walking back towards the greenhouse room and picking up another pot, framed by beautiful lilacs. The brunette hurried back to the front, placing the pot on the counter. "Ophelia, it's fine really. No need to get too upset." Archie's voice was as kind and understanding as always which just made her nod slightly. "Right, uh. That'll be nine dollars." The male's smile didn't fade as he handed her the money, which only made her slightly uncomfortable. "Lee, I really would like to see you for a consult soon. You seem on edge."


Ophelia nodded and offered a smile before letting him be on his way. The town shrink was helpful to her in more ways than she'd thought, however, she couldn't shake the feeling that the dreams she kept having about the tower and throwing herself out of it was just sounding crazier and crazier every consult Of course, she couldn't deny the fact that she'd been able to socialize in a smoother manner since she'd started going to her consults. A few times, Ophelia had encountered the Mayor with her son, a sweet kid with a large imagination. He was sort of like her, with thoughts people kept telling him could be nothing more than fantasies or the imagination running wild. The young woman sighed once more before sweeping up the mess and replanting the surviving plant. Her gaze was caught by the sound of the slight bell ringing at the head of the store, a visitor that no one could mistake. Regina walked towards the counter, with a rather upset look on her face.


"Have you seen Henry, no one can seem to find him and I am becoming very impatient with every no I hear." Ophelia couldn't explain it, but every time she spoke in that tone, her skin grew goosebumps and a chill ran down her spine. However, she was worried that young Henry was missing, he hardly seemed like the type to just disappear without a trace. Then again, his mother was a cold person with harsh rules. "I'm sorry Madam Mayor, despite what you might want to hear, I have not seen him." Regina only clenched her jaw before walking away without the slightest 'thank you'. Slipping off her gardening gloves, the young woman walked towards the door and flipped the Open sign to Closed. She felt the need to help search for the boy, it was the least she could do after he'd brought her those beautiful flowers from the Toll bridge. On the street, she noticed Graham also walking around the establishments. Ophelia felt that maybe she should go to the hospital, Henry did love to help out with the Unknown patients.

 

[byeol]

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Storybrooke, Maine


The morning had been quite peaceful in Storybrooke for this Sheriff. He'd started the day off like usual, a coffee from Granny's, some darts, and some pancakes. Nothing of excitement happened in this place for the most part, and the Mayor seemed to want to keep it that way. Regina, she was an odd one with Graham, utilizing his body and him seeming to feel obligated even when he didn't owe her anything. He couldn't quite explain it, although he was well aware of how strange their relationship was. Of course, not that anyone knew, or would ever know. Aside from those nights where Madam Mayor felt lonely, Graham tried to keep away from her. He knew deep inside that her heart was poison, just like her personality. However, as the day had progressed, a disappearance had given him something to distract himself with.


It seemed that Henry had gone missing, although Graham couldn't blame the kid. Not that he wanted to judge anyone, but Regina was a terrible dream crusher and it sort of hurt the Sheriff's heart to see the poor kid down all the time. Of course, not bad enough that he wanted him to run away. The forest was dangerous at night, and no place for children. So, with a notification from Regina he began his search. He'd started off at the school where he'd never shown up, and then continued on to his favorite hiding spaces. There was nothing. At around noon, Madam Mayor came looking for him, deep fury in her eyes. "I don't know what you want me to do, Madam Mayor, I haven't found him yet. I'm looking everywhere anyone can think of." The discontent was clear in her face as she gritted her teeth. "Well think better, if anything happens to my son, I will not be happy, and trust me. You do not want to see me angry."


This only put stress on Graham as he returned to the streets to look through the establishments. He wanted to ask Ophelia but she barely left the Flower Shop, and he doubted she'd seen him. As they walked by each other, he waved and kept going. Finally he came to a stop in front of the police car. His eye caught someone who might've known more secluded places that Henry visited, or even his actual location. "Laurel, could I ask you some questions?" His tone was heavily tinted by his Welsh accent. He offered a slight smile, "You see, our small friend Henry has disappeared, and I was wondering if you had any idea where he could have gone?"

 

[Lady Odyssey]

Laurel Jane Sanders

It shouldn’t have been as upsetting as it was. A frown shouldn’t have been engraved in her features. Even as she reminded herself of this simple fact and rule, she couldn’t seem to wash it away like she normally had done in the past. The simple task of brushing it off and getting back up wasn’t so simple anymore. Regina’s words were embossed behind her eyelids, left echoing over and over in her head.And who do you think you are, Miss Sanders? You don’t have a child, so who said you were ever qualified to look after my son? Oh, right. Ouch.Everyone knew it. She did. Henry did. Everyone. And yet, Laurel was the one still trying to get over it. Ironic enough, she had been the last one in town to hear the news, too. The news that would flip her world upside down, and ultimately destroy her image in the town’s eyes. Not that it mattered anymore. It was years ago, but still left a scar in the heart of Laurel, a scar Regina knew how to press in just enough to make her ache.


Even though she was, currently, fired and unemployed for the second time in the span of three months due to Regina’s wrath and spewing rage, Laurel felt an obligation. An obligation to seek the well being of the poor kid; Henry. It hadn’t been his fault, let alone his nanny’s. Still, no one seemed to question the poor guy’s motives, and simply resolved on finding the kid first and ask questions later. At least, everyone knew that except for his mother. Laurel didn’t care if she legally had no responsibility over the kid; she just wanted to find him and make sure he was okay. She owed him that much, given what had been going on and circulating through the town. And she’d be damned if Regina, or anyone else in this town, found him first. Laurel knew it was rather selfish of her, wanting to find him before everyone, but she couldn’t help it after practically raising the kid since the time he was tall enough to look at his own reflection in a bathroom mirror.


After wandering aimlessly through the streets, Laurel sighed, exasperated. She should know Henry better than most people--but if that was so, why couldn’t she even locate him? Henry didn’t have many friends. Known to have a few little hideouts, but only few knew what he did with free time of his own. Reading, mostly, if she remembered correctly. Laurel shared that with him; a passion for escaping a better reality, something that sparked a small friendship between the two, something that was unknown to many oblivious people, such that as his mother. Still, she loved hanging with the kid. Or any kid, really. She knew better than anyone else that spending time with little ones was… freedom. Freedom from judgement, boundaries and presets of how the world was supposed to be, and how the world ought to be. Laurel cherished every moment spent with kids, for reasons that many like Regina would never come to know or comprehend.


The voice startled her, causing a small rift in her movement. Cutting off her pounding heart with a short laugh, Laurel pivoted to face the source of the noise. Nonetheless, the town’s Sheriff. He was a young guy, seemed normal enough to her, but always carried with him an aura of… mystery. Though she couldn’t quite place it, she could nearly sense something was almost off with him. Not in the manner of being strange or threatening, but more rather a feeling as though he was still figuring things out on his own. Laurel acknowledged she did, in fact, analyze people in the town way too frequently--and often ended up presuming things wrongly so--but she just felt it in her gut. Regardless, she still respected the man, his position and authority of the townspeople, and offered a friendly smile to mask the inner turmoil erupting inside her head as he spoke.


“Sure thing,” she chirped, still smiling. It faltered at the mention of Henry. “I know, I know. Poor kid. Uh, I’ve been looking for him all morning, but no luck. He got in a fight with his mom, and took off. Anyway, have you checked the playground? Or the hospital? We used to volunteer together to help with the patients.” It was a bit of a long shot, but it was a start. Better than nothing, anyway.

 

[byeol]

Storybrooke, Maine


It only took Ophelia about fifteen minutes to reach the local medical facilities. It was a place she'd seen Laurel and Henry visit frequently, although she couldn't fail to admit that she was also there a significant amount of time. For some reason, she'd felt drawn to devoting time she couldn't devote to fully functioning people, instead she cared for the John Doe patients that resided within a separate wing at the hospital. One of them was mostly taken care of by Mary Margaret, whom she's met often at the hospital as well. Lee usually tended to the children, although some times she did bring fresh flowers for the other Unknown male patient.

He'd been found close by where the other had been retrieved, only a week or two later. The occurrence had been strange really, as no one ever saw anything happen near that place. He too was in the same comatose state, which made her a bit suspicious, not that she would've said anything either way. As she approached the front desk Ophelia noticed her own special John Doe being moved. Her eyes suddenly filled with concern, "Excuse me, where are you taking him?" She gestured towards the rather handsome man. The nurse only offered a slight smile, "He's being moved to a private room with more special care. His guardian has requested he be kept under strict supervision." Immediately, Lee felt confused, his guardian?


It was so strange that someone who'd be referred to as a no name would suddenly have someone taking care of him. The fact that they were moving him must've meant something, and she felt like asking more questions. However, she was well aware that she was out of line already. This man was in no way related to her, and it would've been wrong of her to get involved to someone who wasn't even conscious of his own existence at the moment. "Right, uh. Have you see Henry around here at all? He seems to have gone missing and everyone is helping Madam Mayor look around." The woman behind her desk only shook her head and continued with her work. It made her sigh. Ophelia did, however, take the opportunity to walk into John Doe II's room. The brunette's movements were quiet as she took a seat next to his bed.


He was quite handsome, with brown hair and a light stubble on his face. His face was almost baby like. Without thinking, she touched his hand onto his, expression softening into something that somebody could've mistaken as love struck. The young woman couldn't explain why, but she definitely felt something whenever she visited him."I wonder what it must be like for you, all alone inside there." Her fingers brushed against his temple as she spoke. A slight smile fell on her lips as she stared at him. "I can't believe myself, I can't talk to anyone but you, and you probably can't even hear a word I'm saying." For a moment, she forgot all about Henry and his disappearance.

 

[byeol]

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Storybrooke, Maine

The male had nodded to her tips and offered a smile. "Alright, I'll be checking those places then. Thank you for your help, Laurel." The expression on the young woman's face let the Sheriff know that she was in fact worried for the boy just as much as anyone else, despite the separation Regina had put between the two. He continued on his way, after leaving her with a smile. Graham continued to walk for a while until he'd reached the Playground, only to find it completely empty. There was no one in sight, which only caused him to let out a tired sigh. "Henry, where on Earth did you go?" His hands rested on his waist as he gave another look around, his mind hoping for a second that the boy would just appear out of mid-air.


The dark haired Sheriff sighed as he returned back on his path, back to the patrol car. He slammed the door in annoyance at his failure to discover anything about Henry other than his fight with the Mayor. His drive was quiet as he made his way toward the Hospital. Upon arriving he made his way inside toward the front desk. "Have any of you seen Henry around? I'm afraid he's gone missing. Laurel gave me the idea that he could be around here." The nurse shook her head with a quiet 'no' before returning to her actions on the clipboard before her. Graham sighed and furrowed his eyebrows in defeat. "So, you have no idea about anything that has to do with Madam Mayor's son?" The young woman behind the desk seemed a bit annoyed at his question. "Unfortunately not. I hope you find him soon, truly I do." He sighed and walked out, pushing the door open and exiting the building. His mind went back to Laurel. Maybe she knows what the two argued about?

 

[Lady Odyssey]

Laurel Jane Sanders

Everything was as it should be. Regina was her usual snappy, annoyed self, Laurel got her job back after Henry was found, and now she was spending yet another afternoon within the confines of the hospital. Though she was hardly one to complain, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was... different. Of course, she couldn't place her finger on it. The fact remained that everything was relatively the way it had been a few days ago, with the given exception that Henry had found his birth mother, and the town clock resumed mysteriously. Regardless, Laurel was somewhat happy to be back, though she felt slightly hesitant this time to be working for Regina. Did she really want to throw herself back into the torturous cycle of being fired, rehired, and then burned by Regina's wrath ultimately again? It wasn't in the least bit pleasant, so why again was she going back to the very thing that ends up in flames when she knew the routine? She wished she could answer her own question, but she really couldn't anymore.


Henry was reading to one of the John Doe patients,--the second John Doe more specifically--the pages of the book spilling into his lap as he sat beneath the warm lamp, light pouring to the corner in which he was currently residing in. Laurel watched and listened in complete silence, her eyes skimming over the boy before retreating to the clock above head. It was getting late, and Regina would not be pleased if Henry wasn't in bed in time. With a parted sigh and straightening of posture, she walked over to the boy, her hand touching his shoulder gently. Denial sparked in his eyes, a frown replacing his previously happy features as he looked up to the face of his nanny. Before he could argue, she cut him off with a knowing, amused smile. "Not this time, pal. Come on, your mom will kill me if you're not in bed before nine." The boy's shoulders sagged in defeat, and he closed the book as he stood up.


On their way out, Laurel caught sight of a somewhat familiar face. Ophelia, was it? Yes, that would be her. She offered a friendly smile towards the woman, despite them being practically strangers despite having lived in the same town for... for... How long has Laurel been in town, again? As the two women passed, confusion leaked into her features as she wrapped an arm around Henry, realization dawning. She couldn't remember when she first came into town. Was it really that long ago? Or was she just blanking out, momentarily? Shaking the feeling off, she walked Henry out of the hospital. Just before exiting the building, she could almost hear commotion within the wing of the hospital they just had been in. Laurel, again, shook the feeling off and lead Henry back home.

 

[byeol]

Storybrooke, Maine


The rest of the evening had been relatively normal. After she'd gone to see John Doe, her sleeping friend, Ophelia had returned to her shop. Only an hour or two later, Henry had returned with a blonde woman whom he'd introduced as his birth mother. The young woman had to give it to him, Henry was a persistent kid, when he put his mind to something, he did it. The lady he'd brought back with him, was blonde and very beautiful. Strangely, just shortly after they'd arrived, the frozen clock above the library had begun to move. This made her a bit curious, she made a note in her mind to identify the cause of the change whenever she felt the time to be right. To have been completely honest, Lee had felt a rather mixed feeling in the pit of her stomach when she'd seen Henry's mother. The feeling had made her retreat quickly into her home near the Hospital.


When she'd been literally escorted out by force, from her unconscious friend's new room, Lee had felt uneasy and wanted to assure herself that he'd be alright. However, they offered no words other than she needed to leave. However, she had begged asked one of the nurses to call her if anything changed. At her house, she'd taken a slight rest before showering. At the moment, she'd been making something for dinner, still dressed in a tee shirt and hair moist from newfound cleanliness. For a minute her anxiety had seemed to have subsided, and a peaceful moment had come upon her. All had changed when she'd gotten a sudden searing pain in her left temple, pictures flashing in her mind for a second, a forest like scenery and high place. However, the image had subsided rather fast, after she'd taken some medicine. Her confusion had grown at the images.


The incident had brought her to rest, almost sleeping, being disturbed by the ring of her cellphone. Her reactions were so quick, answering the call issued by the unrecognized number. "Hello? Yes, I'm Ophelia Louve. A change? What?! Of course, I'll be right there." Her eyes were full of mixed emotions, excitement and fright, too of the most opposite feelings. The nurse had informed her that her particular John Doe had woken up, and kept asking for a woman's voice. She had never felt this before, her heart seemed as if it would burst. She hadn't even bothered to get dressed, only throw a jacket over her tee shirt and sweats. Her hair was still wet as she arrived at the Hospital. Immediately, Ophelia approached the nurse and asked to see the patient, permission which she was granted after what seemed like an excruciating wait. Lee hesitated briefly, taking a deep breath before walking into the room. She neared the bed with caution, her voice soft. "You're awake..."

 

[byeol]

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Storybrooke, Maine

A sigh of relief escaped the male's lips as the news of Henry's return made it's way through the small town. For one, he'd been glad that the kid had returned safe and unharmed, and on another count, he'd been happy that this meant Regina would be off his case. He'd heard that a woman had brought him back, but Graham hadn't felt the need to go and check. He'd retreated to patrolling the streets one last time, making sure nobody else decided to run off without letting others know. He continued to wander for about an hour before taking a break. He noticed Laurel on her way back, from what he assumed had been her babysitting. He pulled the patrol car and stepped out, offering a kind smile towards her. "It's a bit dark for a lovely girl like yourself to be out alone, don't you think?" His lips tugged into a teasing smile.



The truth was that he'd always had this unexplained affection towards the brunette, something he could never seem to figure out. Every time his eyes came upon her, he felt as if his heart were going to explode within him, and for some reason he lost all his cool. When he was around her, he became a total fool, something that didn't happen to him often with women. He remembered a time which they'd had coffee together, before his encounters with Regina had begun, before his soul had been tainted by the darkness within her own heart. Now that he thought of it, that was as far back as he could remember, nothing came to him before that. He suddenly couldn't bring himself to the time where they'd first met, he only knew of that moment, and all after it. He gave it no attention now, focusing more on what idiotic things were going to come out of his mouth and where he could control them or not.


Graham offered another smile, this one a bit less confident. His hand reached up to scratch his neck, nerves growing already. "Hey, listen. I know you had a rough night, and I wanted to know if you wanted to come to Granny's and dinner with me?" He paused for a moment, doubting himself immediately. "I mean, you don't have to if you don't want to." However, he knew in his mind that he wanted to have dinner with her more than anything in the world. Especially because he was looking for a chance to finally start appealing to her. Anxiety ate away at him as he waited for her response.

 

[Lady Odyssey]

John Doe #2

Voices. Machines. Heartbeat. Pain. The man gasped, as if he had gone far too long without oxygen, and sat upright in a jolted manner. All around him, he could hear. A heartbeat monitor setting off, the IV lines stuck somewhere along his skin, his pounding head. One nurse scrambled into the room, clipboard in hand as her mouth hung open, eyes widened in shock. She left the room just as quickly as she had entered it, leaving the man alone. He frantically scanned the room, his lips parting as something was struck inside him. Fear. His hands quivered as he ripped out the IV lines, grimacing as he did so, and attempted to swing his legs over to the side of the bed. Just in the corner of his blurry vision, he could just make out a few nurses and doctors rushing down the hallway that lead into his room, their gazes glued to his room door as they neared it.


His heart raced faster as he scrambled onto his feet, confusion and complete terror traced in his features. His legs didn't hold up for long. They gave out underneath him, and he collapsed, along with him the cords and other tubes that had been connected to smaller machines. The loud racket and the impact between him and the ground made him wince, his breaths uneven as he struggled to lean upwards. A few nurses rushed to his side, their mouths moving. For a long moment, he didn't register them. Repeatedly, he pressed for a woman. A woman's voice that he had heard, that he had remembered. Eventually, the ringing in his ears ceased, and four concerned looking faces came into focus. The two nurses and two doctors were silent for a long moment, before the nurses decided to help the man back into his bed. The doctors said nothing as they collected the scattered machines.


No one offered explanation. No one let him know what had happened. As the doctors ran tests on him, he shrunk further and further into the bed until one of the nurses asked to clear the room. Giving him a gentle smile, she sat on the edge of his bed, and looked directly at him. "I'm really sorry this is happening to you," she began, pausing. "This must be confusing and scary, but I just wanted to let you know that whatever happened to you, we'll find out. For now, you just have to hang in there, okay? Everything will be alright." And she was gone.


He laid motionlessly in the bed, hands kept at his sides as he stared up at the ceiling as frustration seized him. Her words echoed in his mind. Everything will be alright. He kept repeating the sentence until it became a mantra of some sorts, the only source of comfort he had in the cold hospital room. As much as he strained himself to remember anything, nothing turned up. No names, no familiar faces, and certainly no memories. Nothing. Releasing a long, silent breath, he fiddled with his fingers as he waited for... What was it he was waiting for? For him to remember? For a doctor to tell him that something was wrong with him? He didn't know, and he wasn't sure if he wanted to.


Just as he considered getting out of bed again, the door propped open gently. The motion startled him, sending his body a small jolt of surprise and fear. He shrunk back into the sheets, body now rigid and stiff as he prepared himself mentally for bad news. Only... it wasn't a doctor? His eyebrows furrowed together in confusion, watching as a woman, a stranger, walked cautiously into the room. He stared at her, feeling his heartbeat throb against his chest, the pain momentarily forgotten. As he studied her intently, the fear subsided, and he found himself not so shriveled up in the bed. When the soft-spoken words left her mouth, his eyes widened before a somewhat relieved expression took over his features. Though he didn't recognize her appearance in the least bit, he almost... knew her voice. It only seemed to add more to the confusion, but for the time being he didn't care; she was the only thing that was familiar since he's woken up.


The man sat up in his bed to examine the woman closer, lips parted as he struggled to form words. Baffled more than anything, he stared at her for what felt like minutes but in reality was seconds, trying to piece together where he had heard her voice before. He couldn't. The frustration was starting to come back, his half-smile now replaced with a disappointed frown. He didn't remember her, so why had he been asking for a woman's voice? How did he know he hadn't somehow imagined the woman's voice when he was... asleep, or whatever? His eyebrows creased, and he sunk back into the bed with a sigh. Eventually, he dismissed his theory of him remembering her, a complete and total stranger. He had convinced himself that he had made it up all in his head. The fear, the confusion; all of it was back.


"I..." he began, hearing his own voice for the first time. "I don't remember." A pause, a pleading look tossed in her direction. "Can you... can you tell me what happened? Please? How long was I... asleep?"

 

[Lady Odyssey]

Laurel Jane Sanders

The evening had absorbed the last rays of warm sunlight, and along with it the frustrations previously burning within Laurel. Now, the fury subsided and long gone cold, she strolled underneath the streetlights, feeling the cool autumn air prickle against her olive toned skin. As her thoughts drifted off into the darkening sky, she felt a sense of calmness and warmth overwhelm both her and her body, bringing a glow to her face and a bounce in her step. She felt carefree as her hair blew wildly in the chilly air, some strands getting caught in her face. A small part of her wanted to spread her arms out and let her fingertips brush against the autumn colored leaves, to let her hands trail through the flowers poking out of the sidewalks, stretching to catch the last drops of sunlight before the darkness would take over.


Laurel, despite just having encountered an agitated Regina, found herself smiling blissfully as her leather boots crushed the leaves beneath her. Unknown to most, the time caught in between summer and winter was something she looked forward to every year; the nights spent next to the fireplace with a cup of hot apple cider, the days spent strolling in over-sized sweaters and marveling at the color-changing leaves. Even now, as she walked alone as the sun said it's final goodbye behind the mountains overhead, she loved it. The scent of campfires and pine trees wafted through the air, flashing brief images behind the back of her eyelids. It startled her, at first. Fast, unexpected and sudden, images of a forest that was not quite like the forest in Storybrooke, of a little girl twirling in a dress, with her same chocolate brown, wavy hair. Then they were gone, gone like the warmth she once had in her skin.


Feeling a faint shiver course through her bones, she awakened from her momentary daydream, and crossed streets with her hazel eyes trained on the paved road. The moments rolled on by until a voice startled her, causing her body to jolt in both surprise and shock. Laurel fixed her gaze to the man of which offered the somewhat teasing words, breathing a sigh of relief upon realizing it was the sheriff. Even though Storybrooke was relatively a safe, small town, she had always believed that no matter where a person found themselves in, trouble would be present. This was partly due to her father's beliefs that lead her to taking several self-defense classes, and even ownership of pepper-spray that she carried in her purse at all times. Quickly recovering, Laurel let out a small laugh before it transformed into a relaxed smile, all the while she continued walking side by side with the town's one and only; Graham Humbert.


She slowed to the sheriff's pace, looking over to the bearded man with an amused smile. "I suppose it would be," she responded thoughtfully. "But then again, I'm not like most lovely girls, now am I?" A brief pause, and she displayed the small bottle of pepper-spray with an eyebrow raised, before she broke into a lopsided grin. Still walking next to Graham, Laurel's eyes glimpsed as a car flew by them, appearing to be going over the safe speed limit of 35. She stared as the car disappeared around a corner, presumably in a hurry to get wherever it was they needed to get. Laurel squinted at the plate, feeling a tingle of familiarity at both the plate and vehicle. Eventually though, she shrugged it off and instead focused both her attention and sight on Graham, who's smile was now faltering into something... less confident. As she tried to figure out what was making him uneasy or nervous, the man spoke up, looking her in the eye as he spoke almost hesitantly, uncertainly.


The question, oddly, didn't come in any form of surprise to Laurel. On the contrary, it made her smile like a fool as he waited for her response in anxiety. Laurel pretended to think about the question rather seriously and thoughtfully, before parting her lips in answer. "I'd love to," she said softly, before breaking into a grin as the two headed to Granny's.

 

[byeol]

Storybrooke, Maine


Ophelia swallowed at his response, feeling her anxiety spike inside her. Immediately, her mind was filled with nothing but worries about every possible outcome, if he would like her or not, if he even knew who she was, amongst other things. She watched nervously as he examined her, before approaching his bed and taking a seat at his side, a place she's spent much time. Her eyes examined him this time, his eyes, his expressions, they were all so handsome. Despite the confusion on his face, he still managed to pull off a great look. "I'm Ophelia." Her words seemed rushed, as she spoke, mentally taking a deep breath. For a moment, she understood his confusion, it wasn't everyday someone woke up from a coma to a stranger. "I didn't mean to alarm you before..." Her voice continued in a soft manner, words sounding almost apologetic. "From what I can remember, you've been out for about 10 months." She nodded her head to as she tried to remember back to the day she discovered him by the Toll Bridge.


A small ghost of a smile made it's way upon her lips as she spoke again, "As for what happened, I can't really say. One day when I was taking my regular stroll, I found you by the stream, unconscious but unharmed. You haven't woken up since then. I've been taking care of you..." Lee cleared her throat after her last statement, embarrassment stirring within her. The young woman feared that by admitting her every so loving care for him would freak the poor man out. However, she couldn't help but care for him after having been the one to find him in the first place. Her heart had ached every moment since, dreading his awakening, in fear of the rejection that could come with it. Her hand tucked a strand of her hair away from her face before biting her lip. His silence was killing her slowly. Her eyes drifted all over the room, before landing back on him. "If that freaks you out, I understand.. I just, felt like I should take care of you.." Her mind drifted into a frenzy , trying to figure out what he would say.

 

[byeol]

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Storybrooke, Maine


He tried to keep his pace as relaxed as he could, while they walked. His heart beat rapidly within his chest as his hands made their ways into his pockets. After what seemed like an eternity of awkward silence, but was really a minute or two, Graham finally opened his mouth. "Can I be completely honest?" His lips turned a slight smile as he chuckled at himself. "I was actually very scared to ask you to dinner. Had you said no to my offer, my confidence would've probably been completely crushed." The way he spoke made it even more comical, a once strong and composed man opening up about his slight insecurity to ask a girl out. Now that was something worth looking at. His mind seemed to be trying to put together topics of small talk that would be acceptable with a person so special as Laurel, however, everything seemed in a jumble at the moment.


As they continued to walk together, he was overcome by a sudden feeling of Deja Vu. His mind seemed to be transported to a different place, smelling of moss and moist ground. He heard the sound of his own boots against the soft ground, surrounded by a forest area filled with endless trees. This was the third time that the beautiful damsel had escaped her fate, sorry, this was the third time the male had purposely let her escape. For some reason, he couldn't bring himself to harm someone with that look in their eyes, lost and alone. His feelings were similar to those of the one he so harshly pursued. Graham wanted to so badly to ignore the Evil Queen's orders, but couldn't seem to break from her will with his heart in her hands. Yet at the same time, he seemed to be overcoming his problem every time she would come close to harm.


There was a sudden ruffling noise coming from some bushes ahead, he could hear her breathing as she tried to scurry into a safe hiding spot. The hunter came to a halt, his steps becoming quiet as he began to approach the damsel from behind. His hands moved quickly, one around her waist and the other over her mouth. Of course, he expected what came next, an elbow to the mouth and a kick to his shin. The male let out a small "Ouch!" his hands were immediately out and up. "Shh, it's okay. I'm not going to hurt you. On the contrary, I want to help you. I don't believe you deserve the fate the queen has in store for you. Please, you won't get through the forest without some form of guidance. I know this place, let me help." He didn't know if it was the look in her eyes, or the will to break away from the dark grips of the Queen, but in that moment his heart seemed to once again be able to decide for itself.

 

[Lady Odyssey]

Laurel Jane Sanders

Something inside of her stirred, bringing the corner of her heart she had bottled up carefully and tightly. It was an odd thing, knowing that this single man--nothing more than that--could undo her biding, undo her meticulously constructed barrier that had once been made to keep men out. Men that could break her heart again, scramble her feelings and leave her six feet under with nothing more than a single thought; I loved him, but did he ever love me? It was a sad thing to mull over for months on end, but true nonetheless. Now, thinking back on the somewhat repressed memory, Laurel instinctively crossed her arms in the same way she did as a little girl, scared of the dark, scared to be alone. The small gesture served nothing more as a means of recomposing herself, collecting her thoughts, and just breathe.


It was there again, only stronger. Warming her cold chest, touching the fray of her mind, whispering to her what she already knew. Laurel flicked her eyes upwards, coming into contact with the glow of streetlamps, catching glimpse of the sheriff walking beside her in her peripheral vision. It was there. It was there, but kept being shoved back farther into the back of her mind, farther away from her pounding heart, farther from her shaking hands.


She loved him.


Laurel loved him, ever since the coffee they shared, ever since the first time she heard his laugh that seemed to make the world just a little bit brighter, ever since seeing his lopsided, infectious smile that made her heart flutter. It was an absurd thought, loving someone she only saw on Monday and Thursday mornings in Granny's. Her head was telling her--warning her--that it wasn't real, but her heart, oh her heart, was telling otherwise. As the two clashed, Laurel fought to catch her breath, stealing a peek at Graham while he wasn't looking, stealing a look at his eyes that seemed to be always sparkling. It was there again, stronger than ever before. An urge to touch him, an urge to reach out and hold his hand in her own, feel its warmth spread into her skin. She spread a slow, heartfelt smile at his words, velvet and gold woven into the night.


"You can always be honest with me," she said softly. A pause, and she found herself looking at him in anticipation, heart beating faster, pumping fear into her branched veins. Then there was that smile, the only smile that could calm her nerves, the only smile that could touch her soul in a way nothing else could. She laughed, touched by his genuineness, and looked directly at him in response. "Scared? Of me?" It was a tease, composed to simply put both of them at ease. "You know, you're really sweet. Now can I be honest?" She paused, sucking in a deep breath, and pulled a lopsided smile. "I was actually kind of hoping you'd ask me, eventually." Laurel laughed again, playfully bumping into his shoulder before pivoting back to her place.

 

[Lady Odyssey]

John Doe #2

It was all he felt in that moment, all he could breathe in. The sour fear, the bitter confusion, they leaked underneath his skin, crawling into his veins until they reached his heart, causing it to pump faster, pound harder against his chest. The man, who didn't know his own name, tried his best to stifle the emotions--if that was even what they were--and push them side. Of course, it was of no use, and a complete waste of his short-lived time now spent through the eyes and ears of pureness, innocence that was still trying to adjust to his own voice, to the sights around him. He soaked it all in, every detail in blind hope of becoming familiar with anything, anything at all. It was sad, grasping at straws with no memory, no idea of who he was, or who anyone was. He had no indication of whether or not he had a family, a wife, kids, waiting at home for him. He had no way of knowing if he had a mother or father to go back to, siblings to visit.


He wasn't sure what hurt more; not knowing if he had a family, or knowing no family members have showed up. Unless... unless this woman was, somehow, connected to him. The possibility, the idea, tingled at him with something he dared not say; hope.


Ophelia may well have been a loved one, related or not. Sister, sister-in-law, or hell, a cousin. He didn't know, and almost didn't care to find out. Whoever she was, all that should matter was she was here in the time he needed someone the most. Waking up from a coma with no memory wasn't something he wanted to do alone, even if she was a total and complete stranger. Then it struck him; he didn't have a name to go by. Not one that he remembered, anyway. The thought terrified him, sending his body rigid. If he couldn't remember his own name, who's the say he'd never recall bits and pieces of memories at all?


His "hope", something he had grasped onto for a few short-lived moments, deflated in an instant. Just like that. She wasn't anyone he knew. She wasn't someone that could try and help him regain his memories, and he wasn't sure how he felt about that. If she was just a stranger, who was to say she wouldn't leave him in the dark abyss of confusion, just like the rest of the staff and doctors? Who was to say she wouldn't just leave him there, without a name, without any reference to the person he once was, without any guidance? The thought saddened him, plagued him with disappointment and defeat, knowing this. But nonetheless, he played along, feeling his thoughts stab him unwillingly with taunting whispers, saying, She's going to leave you, here. Just like the rest of them. She's going to leave you here to suffer this confusion just like everyone else. He wasn't sure what was more painful; knowing this truth, or choosing not to acknowledge it completely.


"Oh," was all he managed. Oddly enough, he wasn't freaked out at all. Rather, he was almost... touched. Touched that a stranger would watch after him without being asked, care for him without anything in return while knowing he may never have woken up. "Thank you," he offered quietly, smiling slightly. He meant it.


"Do you... do you know if I have a name?" Even as the question poured from his mouth, he knew it was a stupid thing to ask for. Something no one should ever have to ask, really. Saddened once again by this realization, he furrowed his eyebrows as he glanced around the hospital room, desperately searching for answers. How old was he? Did he have any family? Probably not, he thought in response. What the hell did he even look like? "I need to know," he mumbled desperately, swinging his weak legs over to the edge of the bed. For a long moment--or so it felt--he stood on his feet, a feeling that reassured him that he was actually awake. But he felt his knees buckle just a second too late, and felt the world beneath him tilt as he came crashing down. He lunged his body forward toward a clipboard, mouth hung open as he let out a groan, just before impact with the cold hard ground.

 

[byeol]

Storybrooke, Maine


Anxiety ate away at her as he remained quiet, taking in every little detail of the room they were in, absorbing the fact that he was awake. Finally, he broke the silence, with the most nonchalant manner she'd ever heard. His answer was just oh. To be honest, Ophelia had been a little disappointed, then again she had prepared for this. The two were strangers, and of course he would never have remembered her voice. The poor man was probably trying to comprehend his situation, and here she was being selfish about whether or not he cared about what she'd down. However, the expression on his face seemed to ease her tense state as he didn't seem to affected by the fact she'd cared for him, which was a good sign. Of course, she had still felt a slight pang of sadness knowing that aside from that, she was really of no help to the poor fellow. His smile made her heart feel like it would explode within her chest, some part of her feeling as if that slight smile could solve everything wrong with her nervous state. Ophelia nodded slightly and offered a simple, "You're welcome." Her arms crossed over her chest as she tried to figure out what else she should say.


Before she could say anything else, her favorite patient spoke for himself. He wanted to know his name, or anything at all about himself for that matter. It made her insides want to wither away as she realized that despite having cared for him so long, Ophelia would be of no use in helping him. She was not aware of anything about his situation, considering that he was not related to her in any way. Her lips fell into a soft frown, "I'm sorry, but I really don't know anything." She bit her lip as she wondered what to say to soothe his soul at the fact that he was a ghost that nobody seemed to know anyone about. His eyes were pleading her for anything, she felt so bad she wanted to cry. How could she have been so useless? Her presence was enough to torture him, having someone yet no one at all. There was another silence, her eyebrows furrowing in frustration at her own lack of knowledge. "They never told me anything about your name..." However, she could recall an age being determined by the Doctor. "The Doctor said you were 25.. if that helps at all." He didn't try to respond to her, his only concern was getting up.


The young woman hadn't seemed to be quick enough to catch hi before he fell towards the ground. She went to help him, face full of worry and concern. However, she was stopped by a female voice yelling in a rather nasty manner. "Get away from him!" Before she could turn, Ophelia was pushed aside by a beautiful blonde woman. She was wearing a black dress, and wore stunning make-up. It didn't seem to help maker her seem any less scary. "What did she do to you, Phillip?" There was a concern in her voice that made her curious, as well as the fact that she had referred to him by a name. For a moment, she was baffled, until she realized this was someone who knew him. Suddenly, it hit her that she did not belong here. "Oh, sweetheart, I'm so sorry I never came, I was away on business. I'm so glad you're okay, darling." Those words were enough to let her know that this was either his wife or girlfriend. This knowledge made her heart feel like it'd shattered into a million little pieces. "I'm sorry, I... I should go." With that she was gone, feeling a tightness in her chest beginning to suffocate her.

That morning she'd been reached by a woman better known as the Town Mayor, and a person she was a deep fan of. Apparently, her handsome husband to be had been found in the woods, not that she'd really cared. They had been estranged for months, and although they'd never officially ended it, the men she had slept with made it obvious Caroline was no longer interested. However, the thing that caught her attention was the information about a woman who'd been caring for him like some sort of girlfriend of his. Now, let's not confuse the situation, despite not loving him Caroline couldn't help but be attracted to that body and face of his. The man was so easy on the eyes, he could've easily been a model. Another thing, he was very wealthy, something that made him even more attractive. Caroline took this as a sign, considering the fact that she'd recently been suffering financial troubles herself, he came as an answer to her prayers. No way was she going to let some skank take all the money she deserved after all the work she'd put into convincing him to marry her in the first place.


With this, she'd agreed to help Regina execute her plan of getting rid of the little pest that was picking at her money bag. She'd even gotten dolled up for the clueless Phillip who didn't know a thing about himself, especially that he'd broken away from her. The ring was still somewhere in her jewelry box, so the task wouldn't be too hard to pull off. The beauty did love a good tragedy, and she was willing to get what she wanted at any and all costs. Her lifestyle was rather expensive, and she was not ready to cut down on any luxury just because some girl wanted to befriend a John Doe. That sappy love at first sight was a total load of shit. If something like that was what that girl had imagined, Caroline would crush it immediately. As she entered the building, her heel clicks could be heard. They came to a stop in front of the door, where she saw a fallen Phillip and a girl who Regina had named Ophelia, leaning over and ready to help him. "Get away from him!"


Someone hand me an Oscar, was all Caroline could think to herself, laughing internally at her own astonishing acting skills. "What did she do to you Phillip?" Her voice was frantic, like that of mother to her injured child. Ugh, she felt like vomiting. If he weren't so damn good looking, she would have never tried. "I'm so sorry I didn't come sooner, darling. I was away, but I'm here now." She kissed his lips, trying to put some emotion into it before noting that Ophelia was gone. "Let me help you, honey." Her hands were gentle helping him sit, before releasing him to straighten creases in her dress. "I'm your fiancée, Caroline. It's truly so relieving that you're okay. Since I'm here you won't be needing her." A sickeningly sweet smile came to her lips as she stroked his face.

 

[byeol]

https://www.rpnation.com/proxy.php?image=http://fontmeme.com/newcreate.php?text=Graham%20Humbert%0A&name=BLESD___+.ttf&size=100&style_color=080808&hash=4defa8b7a1141433cf5f58d72c7f783a

Storybrooke, Maine



He smiled at her, giving a rather in love sort of look himself. "Well, we've never really had time to talk alone, so I wasn't sure how you'd react." It seemed to be that whenever the two got together or finally spent some time by themselves, Regina would burst in and ruin it all. Her timing was so impeccable that it almost irritated him. If it weren't for all their constant interruptions, they'd probably be farther along the lines of talking about feelings than they were now. Graham was sometimes drawn to put a stop to his meetings after thinking of Laurel. Yet, no matter how hard he tried, she always seemed to reel him back in. The male couldn't really understand it as Madam Mayor wasn't really someone he felt anything for. In fact, he felt so empty and out of it when he went to her house, that it was as if someone else was controlling his body and he was just someone hanging around inside. Looking back to her, he noticed how close they seemed to be, hands brushing against each other, seeming to spark little bursts of electricity.


At the fact of Laurel calling him sweet, the Sheriff gave a slight chuckle. "Why thanks, I don't really get that from women too much. Mysterious is the word I'm described by the most." Apparently, young women didn't think he was as open as he should be when he spoke of himself. Then again, they always pried at him, trying to get some dirt on the stud he supposedly was. Her next statement shocked him a bit, considering that he'd been hesitant to ask her due to the fear of her response. "Well, then I guess it all worked out." After that, Graham couldn't help but take a hold of her hand in his own, continuing to walk at a relaxed pace closer to Granny's. He cleared his throat before looking back to her. "I hope this won't bother you then. I'm not looking to do anything that would make you uncomfortable." For some reason, this felt so right for him, like it'd happened before. This feeling actually made his heart seem alive. It was not a feeling he was willing to let go. No matter what.

 

[Lady Odyssey]

Laurel Jane Sanders

"I guess you're right to have been afraid." She smiled teasingly.


It was true enough that they never have--privately--held a conversation, but something inside her had always drawn her to him, something that made her glimpse at him the few days they did share in Granny's. Even before Graham had caught both her eyes and heart's attention, grabbing a cup of coffee on the way to work had been something of a habit, and one that wasn't easily broken. She was beginning to finally appreciate the bad habit, for what it's worth. Even if it did mean she'd have to live with stained teeth, it'd all be worth it in the end if it meant she was with Graham, even if it were for one date.


Having his hand grab hers, drinking in the sweet sound of his laughter, peering over him with a smile. She cherished every second, almost as if a small part of her knew this was how it would be, how it was supposed to be, and she reveled in it. Laurel could sense the comfort resting in between them, wrapping them both in a warmth that went beyond the physical. It was surprising, having the day's stress and worry dissipate as fast as it did with Graham. Pleasantly surprising, she added mentally; and it was. Her walk became more lighthearted, a bounce noticeable within each footstep. The soft lights illuminating from the streetlamps lit their path, making Graham's hair glint in the light, making the color pop in his eyes. Oh, his eyes. She could stare into them for eternity and still never grasp their depth, still never have enough time to admire the gentleness to them.


"Oh no, no. It's fine," she said, laughing. "I was gonna do it myself, actually. But thank you, you're such a gentleman." She gave his hand a gentle squeeze.


The chuckle did it again--warmed her heart, even in the face of the chilly evening. Laurel tilted her head as he spoke, her eyes softening at his words. Graham didn't come across as someone being entirely walled up, she mulled over, but he didn't exactly fill the requisites of being open, either. It was something she was willing to work with. Besides, it wasn't like she was open with many people, either, even if it was out of fear of being left in the dust again, just like last time. Maybe they could help each other out with that. This made her smile, made her inch closer to his warmth. "You're very welcome," she paused thoughtfully, before bursting into a grin. "I think I can take a little mystery. It's not like I'm a completely open book, either."


The doorbell rang as they entered the cafe, warm at last, safe from the bite of the cold. Granny greeted the two, offering an amused smile as she caught glimpse of their entangled hands. She didn't so much as raise an eyebrow, and instead directed them to a corner booth in the back, set with a red candle that gave off the scent of cinnamon. Granny handed the two menus, said to call when they were ready to order, and to enjoy their evening.


Laurel looked at Graham, her hands now resting in her lap. She smiled. "Any budget I should be aware of?" she asked, somewhat jokingly, laughing.

 

[Lady Odyssey]

Phillip

Laying there on the cold hard ground, something new coursed through his veins. Something... bitter. Something that sparked frustration, maybe anger. Even if he couldn't quite place a name on the feeling, he knew it was there, stirring. Growing, becoming stronger. Maybe it had to due with the fact he was too weak to pick himself up. Maybe it had to due with the fact he couldn't even remember who he was. A name would be a helpful tidbit, sure, but who the hell was he? Would did he love to do, as a hobby, in his spare time? Was he more of a sports guy, or more of a geeky guy? Did he enjoy hanging with friends, or spending time alone? None of it would ever be answered, no matter how much it gnawed at him, begging him to be solved. Begging him to remember. Everyone around him was saying it was alright when it wasn't. Everyone around him was saying he would remember when he didn't.


It was getting harder to breathe. The room felt too small, the woman felt too close to him, suffocating him. He fought to make sense of his surroundings, instinctively pushing Ophelia farther away from him with only one urgency spinning round and round in his mind; I need more air. His eyes frantically bounced back and forth as he drank in the room's facade, all the while he fought to constrain the frustration bubbling inside of him. Was he really that weak? That helpless? Apparently so. Hell, he couldn't even stand up on his own without falling like an infant learning to walk. He wasn't sure whether to laugh or cry at the thought. Maybe a little bit of both.


"Stop, please. I'll be fi--..." He was abruptly cut off by a frantic woman, seemingly ready to charge in and put herself in between him and Ophelia herself, even if it did mess up her hair. Almost immediately, his heart began pounding loudly within his thin chest, confusion once again claiming his facial features, this time more profound than ever before. He stared, in both bafflement and curiosity, at the woman as she barked for Ophelia to get away from him. His eyebrows knitted together as he blinked at the woman's request, all the while he watched Ophelia for her torn expression. It was that much obvious the poor lady just wanted to help, so what was this other woman's problem? Did she... ? No. No one knew him. At least, that's what he's been told. Before he could protest, the woman was at his side, Ophelia now gone, asking him... no, Phillip, what she did to him. Wait. His mouth hung open in objection, but she was already helping him on his feet before the question could shoot out of his mouth.


Feeling drained and more weak than before, he laid down in the hospital bed, eyes glued to the woman as he studied her. Phillip. Was that what she called him? "Who's... who's Phillip?" he asked hesitantly, fear spiking within him. She didn't answer, but instead... kissed him. His eyes opened in both shock and surprise, before he pulled away, staggered. "Wha-- who-- I mean," he fumbled, toying with his fingers anxiously, nervously. "Fiance?" he echoed disbelievingly. "But... they told me no one knew me. They told me no one claimed me." Phillip scooted noticeably away from the woman in confusion and caution, feeling that something was... off. Something was definitely off.

 

[byeol]

Storybrooke, Maine


The appearance of the blonde woman who called herself Phillip's fiancée came as a big shock to her. Ophelia had basically attended to his every need for countless, not knowing his name. It made her heart feel like it'd shriveled up and died to see that woman kiss him the way she did. Her chest felt like it would burst from pain at the sight. She should've been happy. All these feelings were pure selfishness and she knew it, but it was so hard to accept what happening at this very moment. She simply wrapped her arms around her body and proceeded to place her headphones in her ears before beginning to walk away, out of the hospital, and on to the dimly lit street. Her eyes stung with tears, but her hand quickly moved up to wipe them away. The sleeve of jacket feeling rough over her cheeks.


In the street, she bumped into someone rather unfamiliar to her. He had a face that was very easy on the eyes, and would have caught the attention of any woman, not in her current distress. "I'm s-so sorry." She sniffed and looked away, the streetlights catching on her dark green orbs. Which were currently surrounded by pink rimmed eyelids, signs of her heartbreak. It made her feel even worse that she'd just caused a perfectly happy stranger an unwanted encounter with a woman falling apart. Her hand reached up to remove her headphones. However, she couldn't bring herself to move away and keep on with her life, either. For some reason, she wanted him to say something. Anything. She wanted, a friend. The thing she really didn't have was the thing she wished for the most. Ophelia wanted someone to ease her heartbreak.

The reaction that Ophelia had give towards what had happened, certainly made Caroline feel very satisfied. However the reaction she'd gotten from Phillip was not one that personally appealed to her. The way the male moved away from her touch made her a bit annoyed. It almost offended her. "Sweetheart. Why are you so cold?" Her mind was racing to find another phony lie that would maybe convince him all of this was real. "I love you so much, why does it seem like you think I'm lying?" What she loved, was his money. She was willing to do whatever she could to get all of it, every last penny. However, she noted that he was also not as much of an idiot as she'd thought, and this job would be harder than she'd planned for earlier. Her red stained lips tilted into a sly smile as she neared him once more. "I'm sorry. You must be so confused."


At this moment she thought maybe, if this went on long enough, the job would be done with no problem. Regina had given her instructions she felt like she needed to follow. "I brought some clothes. The nurses said we could go, tonight." The house had been the hardest to prep. She'd had to dig out all the old picture frames and put the out, the ones in which they'd actually looked like a real couple. She'd even brought a whole wardrobe of clothes that would fit him perfectly, just to make it seem more believable. "I know you want to leave. So, I think you should get dressed. We don't want strangers messing with you head again, Phill." Caroline stood and fixed any wrinkles on her dress before moving by the door. "Go ahead, I'll wait here."

 

[Lady Odyssey]

Phillip

Phillip's eyes, peering past Caroline's shoulder as she held him too closely, softened sadly as he watched Ophelia disappear out of the door. He longingly stared at the door frame, as if he was willing it to make her come back. She didn't. As much as he tried, he couldn't suppress the disappointment that lingered. Disappointment of what, though? The fact she didn't try to stay, didn't fight to have just a few more minutes with him? Or the fact she didn't say goodbye? Phillip, dazed and confused as ever, was again left with no answers, only theories, to be his company. His only company that he knew so well. Even if Ophelia was just as a stranger as this woman, Caroline, was, he couldn't deny it any longer. A small piece of her was just so... familiar. Something tugged inside him when he first laid eyes on her, begging him to lean closer to catch a whiff of her perfume, to look closer into her deep, deep brown eyes. He didn't, and now it was too late.


Something flashed in the woman's eyes, something that made him almost guilty for being confused. It made him feel like a child, more than anything. A child being chastised. He didn't like it one bit, not one bit. Phillip, rather than scoot even further away from her, allowed for her to help him up. It took great effort not to flinch at her... cold touch. Was that the word? It must have been. Every time their skin came into contact, shivers and tingles were sent down his spine. And not the good kind.


He was taken aback by her comment, feeling another twinge of guilt slam him in the chest. At a time, they'd been engaged. Shouldn't he at least try to pretend they were at least friends? It was the least he could do, really. But how could he do that when he didn't know a thing about her, other than the fact he'd asked her to marry him at one point or another? Phillip felt a small sense of obligation, more than anything, take over. If the past him loved her, wouldn't it be logical in that he'd still love her? No. That couldn't be right. He felt... nothing. Nothing at all when he looked at her. But with Ophelia, well... He didn't finish that thought. He couldn't. Dammit. There it was again. Confusion.


"I'm... I'm sorry," he began, frowning sadly. "It's just," he trailed off, sighing heavily. Phillip rested his head against the pillow, curling up in effort to warm up. "I don't think you're lying, it's just that I don't know how I'm supposed to... act, I guess. You're telling me that I loved you enough to ask you to marry me, but I don't... I don't remember." He was getting frustrated as he spoke, running his words along faster as he did so. "How am I supposed to love someone I don't remember?" It seemed impossible, if you asked him. Absolutely impossible.


Even as she smiled, it didn't seem entirely genuine. Phillip decided not to focus on that. All he could think about was the look on Ophelia's face when she left, crossing the line between sadness and... was there even a word for it? Anguish? Pain? Heartbreak? No. That last one couldn't be right. How could someone be heartbroken unless they were in love first? Phillip didn't linger on that, either. Caroline's perfume was too strong, making it difficult to breathe. Too sweet. Too... artificial. Almost like her smile, he thought with a grimace.


"Yeah, you could say that," he mumbled. He was beyond confused at this point.


Phillip staggered at her mention of being able to leave, his lips parting as dozens of questions buzzed off. "Wait, what do you mean?" he blurted, eyebrows furrowed together, his mouth a slight frown. "Go... home? With you?" He couldn't even begin to fathom what that word meant. Home. He couldn't breathe. The perfume, the fear, it was too much.


"But... I don't want to leave," Phillip said quietly, almost in a childlike tone. "I'm not ready. And no offence, but aren't you a stranger too? I don't even... I don't even know you. I'm sorry, but I just don't think I can do that," he paused. "I... I can't breathe." He was squeezing his eyes shut, focusing on sucking in air. It wasn't helping.
​

 

[byeol]

https://www.rpnation.com/proxy.php?image=http://fontmeme.com/newcreate.php?text=Graham%20Humbert%0A&name=BLESD___+.ttf&size=100&style_color=080808&hash=4defa8b7a1141433cf5f58d72c7f783a

Storybrooke, Maine

His smile only grew wider at her beauty and charm. There was no doubt that he'd been an idiot not to have approached her any earlier. Although, it wasn't like he'd had a chance, what with the Mayor always cramming her artificial love down his throat. Graham actually felt kind of bad for Henry, the way he didn't get any breathing space from the controlling woman. His eyes gazed into hers as he took a seat himself. "Well, I try to be charming for especially lovely women like yourself." His hand held hers ever so gently, as if he were afraid she'd break before his eyes. The bearded male gave another chuckle at her humor as he shook his head. "No, no. Of course not, I'd purchase the whole establishment for you. Although I'm sure Granny wouldn't be too pleased."


There was such an ease to the way he could talk to her, like they'd known each other forever. Laurel made him want to take an entire eternity to get know her, and what she liked and all she enjoyed. He cleared his throat as he tried to real himself back in. "So, do you have any special friends in town? I recently became friends with Miss Swan, Henry's other mother." He wondered if he could make their future experiences a bit better by getting information on gifts that she'd enjoy from her friends. He'd been known to not be as thoughtful for other girlfriends, and he wasn't about to make that mistake with someone he already had such a connection with. Kind people usually hung around together, so he wondered if Laurel was in anyway friends with Ophelia, the town florist.



@Lady Odyssey

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[byeol]

There was some reluctance present in the blonde beauty's face as she thought of what to say, his confusion only making her boil within. A sigh escaped her lips ever so slowly as he began to talk about his lack of oxygen. Oh please, if you weren't filthy rick I'd let you die here and now. Her actress face was back on as she leaned closer to him, placing her hand on his cheek. "Darling, I'm sure you'd feel better in your own bed. I'm not letting you stay here, so please don't argue." She walked away towards the corner of the room, grabbing some sweats that'd been left behind by the annoying florist. The fact that she'd even bothered to bring them like she was someone had truly made her sick, how could two strangers be so connected without so much as 10 minute conversation. Caroline saw it in Phil's eyes that he longed for her much more than he ever did for his own fiancé. The fact that she'd brought him the clothes made her feel relieved as she'd lied before.


The clothes were silky soft, made from refined and fine cotton. There was no way she'd grabbed these in a hurry, these were definitely being treasured for this specific moment. Gross. Another fake smile graced her lips, "Look babe, I got them brand new for you. Just your...size." It was so sad, really was. How idiotic could this girl have been to stick around someone that could've never woken up. She was an idiot for sure. This was her money fountain, that frail fish faced baby would have to find another. Her eyes blinked quickly as she caught a wiff of the gentle smell of flowers that loomed over the clothing, it was undeniably sickening. So pure and gentle. "Seriously, Phil. We have to get going. I love you, darling but I'm super busy so get dressed and let's get out of here. The smell is revolting."