page eleven

[fantasies]

[It's the second time he's woken up to an empty room, and somehow he's still surprised.

It figures. Just when things had been getting better, when he'd started feeling alright after having Emma taken away, when the castle had brought Snow back--

Well. It wasn't like his family had ever been whole before, anyway.]

Um. [A beat. He started talking too fast. Try again.] Um, the castle sent Prince Charming home. [amending:] James.

[Home to a curse, which isn't any better.

He's quiet for a while, looking at the other pages of the journal when he doesn't feel like doing anything else.]

I guess it's doing that thing again, isn't it. Where it sends a bunch of people home at once.

Comments

[valuedstrength]

Works for me. See you soon?

[fantasies]

Yeah! Just give me a couple minutes.

[And a couple minutes it is before he's in the lobby, rocking back and forth on his heels.]

[valuedstrength]

[Steve is walks in shortly after. He waves at Henry to get his attention.] Hey, I hope I didn't make you wait too long.

[fantasies]

No, it's okay. Only a little bit. [He tries a smile, and mostly succeeds.] Are you ready? Really ready, you gotta prepare for these waffles.

[valuedstrength]

[Steve plays at being offended, smiling broadly.] You kidding? I can always handle a round of waffles. Don't tell me you're doubting me already?

[fantasies]

[He holds his hands up, mock-defensive.]

I'm just saying. Some people can't handle it.

I believe you, though.

[valuedstrength]

Thank you. [He feels fake vindicated now.] Now are you sure you can handle it?

[fantasies]

I'm a waffle pro. You don't have to worry about me.

[valuedstrength]

Alright you won't hear any waffles concerns from me. [A beat.] So what are your plans after waffles?

[fantasies]

I dunno, I hadn't really figured that part out yet.

[He really just wants the distraction.]