Once Upon A Time (Tv series) TEA TIME! I CAN'T BE LATE FOR TEA! ~PAFP~ Jump In!

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    Jefferson could feel his past catching up to him. He remember how he had reacted to the thought of having a child. Of course he married the girl he had done this to immediately. He wasn't a scum bag, somebody who knocked girls up and ran off to let them suffer. It was an accident, but it was with a girl he truly loved. He didn't regret a minute he spent with her. After having married, he made sure to make a living for them, which unfortunately wasn't the best. He didn't get a job like usual people, didn't sell his goods, instead..he stole. He used his hat as a transportation service. People had to pay to use his precious hat. He would spend days traveling to different worlds and gaining different treasures to sell or trade. Grace was so young when Jefferson's work killed her mother, killed his wife. He could tell Dylan had the question in her mind, but he didn't bring it up himself, he simply suffered the horrible question he knew would come eventually in his own head.


    That was his dark past, at least half of it. He silently sat in the car, glancing about it. He hadn't spent much time in cars, and this one seemed nice, fancy almost. Well, at least in Jefferson's mind. Jefferson could hear Dylan, but he was too busy in his thoughts. That was until his daughter was mentioned. He clenched the brim of his hat gently, glancing sideways at Dylan. She..thought he was a good father..? That warmed his heart, his eyes showed that. He gave a small smile, his past thoughts fading with the frown that had been replaced by a big smile. He seemed flattered that she would want to help him get his daughter back. It really amazed him. Her kindness was beyond him. "You're a really good person...thank you.." He said softly, letting his gaze drift to her.


    The moment was over, the mayors house was just a few blocks away, no, now it was in view! The house was white and very large. It had posts outside with a black, metal gate between them. On either side of the posts were shrubs, shrubs that lined the black gates and hid the front yard. There was a stone path leading up to the front porch, which was also made of white materials. In the backyard, apple trees were visible. Yes, if an Evil Queen had to live in a house, this would be the house any villain would pick, if they were trying to stray undercover that is. Jefferson stepped out of the car once it had come to a stop, standing near the front gate. He glanced around, deciding to carry his hat in his hands still. He glanced side to side, frowning as he tried to think of something "Remember what I said...? If it gets bad..you leave"

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]She was glad to have put a smile so big upon his face, but unfortunately she couldn't bring herself to agree with his statement. Truth be told, she wasn't a good person. Within her History was a hidden series of events she wasn't too proud of. She had stolen, been a manipulator, and wasn't unfamiliar with property damage either. Perhaps that was an older, darker version of Dylan. Someone from a different time who was driven only by anger, tainted by the cruelties of this world. Of course, she wasn't just about to bring this up with Jefferson - let alone was she about to correct him. Now wasn't the time or place for confessions, but she did show mild regret even as he thanked her, something that was barely concealed through a more than sheepish grin.


    Shaking the thoughts away that threatened to fog her mind was difficult - but not impossible. Simply knowing the impending danger both her, and another were facing. It was easy enough to draw her attention back to the situation knowing that Jeffersons life was possibly on the line. Her own, she didn't take into consideration so much. Even so, she wasn't about to dismiss Jeffersons worry. She had made a promise, one in which she was determined not to break. "I remember." She stated as she opened her own door and followed him out of the car, only to turn and rest one hand on the door, while the other settled on the roof. "But I have one condition." She added abruptly, something she hadn't dared to do until now. However, the thought had gnawed at her the entire way here, ensuring her that this one condition was one she was bent on. "Do what you need to, but be careful. I'll leave the premises if things take a turn but I am not driving this car off unless you're in it."


    She would follow Jeffersons wishes, but if he was lost there was nothing she could do. She knew very little about this whole curse thing, especially when put in comparison to Jefferson. If anything were to happen she wasn't quite sure she would be able to carry on with saving Grace, or anyone else for that matter. Frankly that was something he should have known. They were in this together, and she wasn't about to disregard his own safety for her own sake.

    Jefferson couldn't see it at the time, nor did he wish to interrupt their conversation simply to point out that it didn't matter if she had done bad things, he had too, the past didn't define them, it defined nobody. Nobody should be shamed for what they did if they had changed since then, that's what Jefferson believed to this day. He glanced at Dylan, seeing Her expression, attempting to read it, analyze it. He frowned faintly, not speaking, simply frowning. But they had bigger issues at hand, and he couldn't waste time trying to work things out between them now.


    As Jefferson neared the front gate, he paused to turn back to Dylan. Was she...refusing to leave him? This was new, very new. Nobody had even cared enough to make sure he was still alive out in that mansion, nobody cared to buy him coffee occasionally, or even to say hello. And this had continued for years! Now here this girl was, refusing to leave unless he was with her. His heart gave a flutter, and he felt like giving her the biggest hug he had ever given anyone, but he predicted that this was not the time for that, instead, he simply gave a big smile. "I appreciate that.." He said silently before pushing open the gate and walking down the stone path.


    It was daunting, nearing the house, but Jefferson knew it must be done. He knocked on the door, not being gentle with it either. It took a moment before a woman with short black hair answered the door, dressed in a blazer. "Ah..Jefferson! What a nice surprise.." She exclaimed, pausing when she saw the hat in his hands. Her eyes narrowed ever so slightly before she glanced towards Dylan "Oh..? And who is this?" Jefferson simply gripped his hat and answered the evil queen, aka the mayor "She's new to town...arrived yesterday.." He informed truthfully, knowing better than to lie to this woman. It was obvious there was tension between the two, and if Dylan wasn't there, there was no telling what might happen. The woman simply smiled at Dylan "Nice to meet you..! I'm Regina..please! Come in.." She stepped aside kindly, but eyed Jefferson as he passed by her into the house.

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]Dylan wasn't one to let Jeffersons gratitude go unnoticed. For years now he had been looked down upon, living a lonesome life where he was forced to watch even the people who had once loved him live without him. She couldn't imagine the pain that came with such a burden. To watch everyone live in peace without you, to be looked at like you were nothing more than a problematic lunatic. It must have been horrid. To be quite honest, she was glad to at least give him the peace if mind that he wasn't entirely alone anymore. Even if all of this was hard to believe, and even if she couldn't quite grasp it yet, all she really knew was that if she were to leave she would feel terrible for having left him to face this battle on his own. So she would stick by Jeffersons side, for as long as she could, until happiness was introduced to his life once more. That meant they needed to save Grace.


    Giving him a curt nod, Dylans eyes spoke enough that her expression and mouth needn't do the talking for her. She was glad to help him if anything. Although, she was still undoubtedly wary, and positively unsure of what she was doing here. That didn't stop her from trailing after him to the door though. That look of confusion only resting upon her features for a brief moment before succumbing to her naturally hard to read expression. This happened just in time for The Evil Queen to open the door, and reveal herself to be a surprisingly polished woman of power. She wasn't quite sure what she had been anticipating, but it certainly wasn't this. She looked to be incredibly normal for someone as power hungry as Dylan thought her to be. Then again, she had learned over the years that appearances could be surprisingly deceiving.


    "My name is Dylan Everest." She responded without hesitation as she met the other woman's gaze, a small smile appearing only faintly on her lips. Altering the way she was perceived by people was quite easy to her, as she could play the role of innocence if the situation required it. Unfortunately, in that moment, that habit seemed to become her immediate default as she followed after Jefferson into the house. She even nodded in an act of politeness despite what her interior thoughts deemed correct. She would leave the talking up to Jefferson, for the most part. At least until things unraveled just enough for her to find her footing. "You have a very lovely home..." She added in a thoughtful murmur, noting the tension between the two without fault. She had a feeling if she weren't standing in her current position, this situation would have taken a ... darker turn, to say the least. Now, to think. Quickly while sweeping her gaze over her surroundings she took as many details as she could into account. After all, they were here in search of something even Dylan wasn't aware of. Fortunately, this worked in her favor as naturally she seemed to simply be studying the house in fleeting admiration before turning her attention back to Jefferson and Regina. Her expression suggesting utterly nothing, while inwardly she pondered when things would take a turn.

    The look Jefferson and Regina shared was like the look of a cat and a dog being forced into the same tight space. Jefferson's eyes seemed to burn with a much greater hatred than Regina, in fact, Regina's eyes seemed to shine with a happy look, as if she was looking at an old friend. It was obvious why people thought Jefferson was crazy, taking a look at this woman before them, she seemed innocent, nice even. But the expression Jefferson kept plastered on his face was one of hate, a burning need for vengeance on the one that made his life a living hell. He didn't even bother hiding his emotions from the queen, that was obvious, yet she seemed unphased.


    "Why thank you, my dear.."Regina said in a kind tone as Dylan complimented her home "My son and I have lived here ever since the town was being built! I absolutely LOVE the yard.." She gave a smile, her gaze drifting from Dylan to Jefferson. There was a fleeting look of "what have you done" in her gaze, as if Jefferson was the one who had brought Dylan into this town. Yes, if he could he would have, but this was Dylan's free willed choice, to enter this town. The rest? Well..that did involve Jefferson getting his hands dirty, so to speak. Jefferson and Dylan were led from the entrance into a room that was solely decorated with black and white. The walls, the floor, the couches, the paintings, the decor, everything. It seemed to be an office of some sort.


    Jefferson stood in the middle of it, his knuckles now white from holding his hat. Regina went to her desk, picking up a few glasses that were there. She filled them with what looked to be wine. She walked up to Jefferson and extended the cup, but Jefferson simply looked at her with the hardest, coldest look Dylan had ever seen on him. Regina simply moved past him and tried Dylan "I'm guessing you two are here for a reason..?" Jefferson sharply glanced around the room, then at Dylan. He didn't speak for a moment, then he did, in a cold, dark tone "Let's skip the chit chat..you have something I need.." Regina simply laughed, shaking her head "Ah...I thought this day would come.."

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]The tension between the two was so thick you could cut it with a knife. But this didn't cause Dylan to lose her composure. Perhaps if anything she looked to be a little uncomfortable - but that would have worked in her favor. Or at least, she had been anticipating it would. But it seemed as though keeping up her front wasn't as necessary as she had thought. Regina, The Evil Queen, and wickedest of the land seemed rather... nice. She even had a son? Now that was a rather surprising fact, but she supposed these so-called characters led far different lives than their stories painted out. Really, it was hard to determine what was the truth and what was the lie from them.


    Dismissing this thought abruptly, Dylan focused her attention on something else. That being Regina and Jefferson. The Queen wasn't easy to perceive as bad, but Dylan didn't allow herself to be so easily fooled by the way she came off. It wasn't simply because Jefferson had told her about The Queen. Rather, it was because of her own instinct. Trusting someone you had only just met was a foolish choice to make, as anyone could put on a smile that looked genuine enough. A wolf in sheep's clothing wasn't a rare sight to see. Because of this, Dylan had always naturally been cautious around strangers. Regina was no exception - just as Jefferson hadn't been. "I'm not much of a drinker." She replied honestly, shaking her head slightly as she raised one hand. The motion was polite enough, but below that she was pondering whether or not this drink would have held a surprise for her. After all, she had only stayed in this town because she had taken a sip of over medicated tea. She could only imagine what someone such as Regina would do to her drink if given the opportunity.


    It was as Jefferson spoke in a tone that was a little too familiar to her that Dylan excused the offer entirely as her gaze shifted to him. He was being blunt enough, so it didn't appear he would stoop to underhanded tactics to retrieve what he wanted. It was surprising to see how easily he took charge of the situation and yet so abruptly. But she also knew retrieving what he needed would not be so easy. It couldn't be. Surely it would not be even considered. Then again, if there were to be a catch - what would The Queen demand? Would Regina simply laugh in his face and send him off? Or would she be far more meticulous about the matter at hand?


    Regina started to...laugh. Her laugh was light, as if she didn't want to laugh too hard, maybe she was afraid of being rude instead of seemingly being playful. Jefferson's face contorted slightly as Regina continued to chuckle softly. "I'm so sorry if Jefferson has dragged you into anything.." Regina said softly to Dylan, as if speaking to a mother about her child. "He isn't all there..he gets confused sometimes.." Jefferson was hurt, it showed in his face. He clutched his hat even tighter, if that was even possible. Regina took Jefferson's hand in both of hers, patting it softly "Go home okay..? Remember the medication the doctor gave you..?" She spoke as if speaking to a mental child.


    Jefferson suddenly jerked his hand away, moving back as he raised his voice "I don't NEED medication!!" He snapped, drawing away from the Evil Queen. Regina simply sighed and stepped back, shaking her head "Jefferson...don't make me phone the hospital again.." She warned him, yet it didn't phase the motivated Jefferson "The..the magic item..I need..it! You have it..now gi- Regina cut Jefferson off with a simple motion of her hand. It seemed she had heard this a thousand times. She displayed such an amazing act, that it might be questioned if the hat trick really was real. Maybe it all was a magical trick created by an insane man, driven by who knows what.


    It seemed this conversation was going no where, it had even be threatened that Jefferson get sent to the hospital, probably to be dosed with medication, forced into a sleep until he could calm himself from his crazy ranting. By the way Regina spoke, this had been done already. Jefferson didn't seem to be effected by this. He needed to get his daughter back. He had to. He was getting angry, but he didn't say anything else. How could he? Regina was now speaking to Dylan again, apologizing for Jefferson as if he was her own son. "Please excuse him..this is no way to be welcomed into the town!"

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]Something within Dylan seemed to spike when she witnessed the hurt expression on Jeffersons face. It was only pure luck that enabled her to be able to conceal that so well so that the look she passed him showed nothing more than concern before succumbing to a gentler smile. "Really it's not a problem, he's been more than welcoming since I arrived in Storybrooke." The tricky thing about Dylan was that honesty laced her tongue like a fine poison. She always told the truth, regardless of the scenario. Jefferson had tricked her, conned her, and kidnapped her. But she had been given the option to leave shortly after. Her only ball and chain in this situation was her curiosity. Though she had to admit... Regina made it almost tempting to believe that Jefferson was just as crazy as the town made him out to be. But she had to remember, she needed to hold on to the feeling she had felt when the hat had worked. That hadn't been something that could be falsely recreated. It was real, regardless of whether or not the story surrounding it was. She needed to see what happened when the hat worked. She needed to see whether or not Jefferson was being truthful, and just what was going on in this town. Perhaps there was no mystery here, but she still wanted to solve the problems she had come to face these past few hours.


    "My sister had Schizophrenia, so this situation isn't exactly out of my usual field." She spoke up after a moment. Inwardly she held regret towards putting Jefferson down so abruptly, but she had a reason behind doing so. If she were to bluntly ask for the object as Jefferson had, there was no way he would receive what they had come here for. She needed to play along and then wait for her moment to strike. Or at least she intended to give Jefferson the chance to. She just needed to find a fair enough distraction, something that would give him enough time to try and find something from his world. Then again, she seriously doubted such a thing would be left out so clearly in the open. Maybe it was even locked away. If so, that would raise the difficulty of this to an entirely new level. The only thing that made this harder was that Dylan still wasn't too sure what she was doing here. Better yet, whether or not she had gone mad with delusions herself. "If it weren't for Jefferson I would have had a very ... different night. I got a little nauseous and he gave me a place to spend the night, I guess you could say I owe him."


    That last part wasn't dishonest, but it definitely wasn't correct. She didn't owe Jefferson anything much just yet. But at the end of this, if miraculously things went his way, she would owe him an apology. "I have to admit I wasn't expecting a welcome. Actually, I wasn't even positive this town existed." The way she added this calm and collected, but her mind was elsewhere as she spoke. What type of item were they even searching for? Was it something that would stand out? The only things she was betting on was Jeffersons familiarty over this place and situation. After all, this was all new to her, and she could only make the most out of assessing it.


    Jefferson's head lifted as Dylan practically took control of the situation. He looked just as surprised as Regina when she mentioned that he had been more than welcoming to her. More than welcoming? She had to be lying through her teeth right now. Welcoming wasn't forcing somebody to do your dirty work, forcing them to help you when they thought you were insane. Now here she was on a mission with him to find some magical object. Why didn't she go home? He had given her the choice to leave and she had stuck by him, even when he warned her how dangerous it could be, she refused to leave him. Why was that? What was so special about himself? The hat. It was the hat. She wanted to learn the truth for herself, it was her curiosity, not her bond with Jefferson. At least that was what he was telling himself. Regina herself just stared at Dylan, a little shocked by her response. She blinked once before nodding softly"Oh..! I see.." She glanced over her shoulder at Jefferson, her eyes focusing on his hat. She knew he didn't bring that thing out of its case unless...


    Magic. Jefferson was trying to accomplish magic. It showed in the Evil Queen's face that she was catching onto their little mission. And she had her mind set on it not working. If she couldn't have magic, if she couldn't have a happy ending, nobody could. She kept her expression unchanged though, keeping a friendly attire. "Oh? How long do you plan on staying?" If somebody was listening closely to Regina's tone, they might have caught a slight hint of force, as if she was hinting for Dylan to just leave already. She seemed welcoming enough, yet she was burning on the inside. She needed this girl out of town, she needed Jefferson to be deemed insane again. She had built this whole act up, and now this girl was coming and breaking it? No, she wouldn't have it.


    A evil plan was forming as she faced Dylan so she could speak face to face with her, leaving Jefferson behind her, completely out of the conversation. But this was Jefferson's chance. With slow steps, he moved towards Regina's desk, glancing it over with those green eyes he possessed. They rested on different items, the glasses of wine that were offered to them, the stack of papers in the center of the desk, the vase of flowers on the top right corner of the desk, yet nothing was magical. He couldn't see anything he recognized. He bit his lip and glanced towards Dylan and Regina as he slipped around behind Regina, moving towards the left side of the room now where the sofa lay. He continued scanning but...nothing. He found nothing.

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]The question Regina asked was actually one that Dylan had been asking herself since she had followed Jefferson out that front door. Already she had been here for a night, but how long did she intend to stick around? This wasn't her problem, she had no place being here. But something had drawn her to Storybrooke. Something had coaxed her into her car only to drive way out here to a town that seemed to be no more than a rumor where she came from. So regardless of whether or not she knew the answer, she responded to Regina with a hidden amount of equal force brewing beneath her surface. "I'm not sure. I was thinking of sticking around for a few more days before heading out. After all, it's a long drive home-" The way she spoke she seemed to suggest she was taking a lot into consideration here. It was near impossible to tell whether or not she was just a good actor, or was being as honest as she could without getting Jefferson into too much trouble. "- After all, I heard the way out of town was dangerous for drivers." If anything the only day she seemed to confirm that she was staying through all of this was today. By tomorrow, she could easily steer her car out of Jeffersons driveway and be off on her way. But she didn't let Regina know that she wasn't even quite sure how long she would linger. Preferably, she wanted to stay long enough to see Jefferson reunited with Grace if that was his truthful happy ending. But honestly, who knew how long that could take? So for the time being, she left it up for debate.


    "I hope that's okay with you, Mayor." She added abruptly, her softer voice giving off a soothing ring despite the fact that inwardly she was testing Regina. She could sense the pressure coming off of her, followed by a desire to want to leave this place immediately. It was like facing a coiled up snake, just waiting for it to strike. But any negative traits she displayed here only supported Jeffersons claims. So really, Dylan was assessing her. Now she couldn't exactly see her being an Evil Queen, but at best she could see her having more than a few skeletons in the closet. After all, it was rarely surprising to find out that someone did. Only Dylan had a very keen feeling she didn't want to know what Regina's were.


    She couldn't imagine where this magical item Jefferson sought out would be. If anything Regina had to have anticipated that Jefferson would come looking for it one day. If that were the case, it would be in a safe place, right? Somewhere she would have easy access to it, but kept it away from prying eyes. After all, it was only the towns lunatic she was hiding it from, so what extent would she have gone to in order to conceal it? Would it be in her desk drawers? Upstair? The backyard? Or better yet, was it something on Regina? It was impossible to tell without knowing what she was looking for - but still she wished Jefferson the best of luck while she bought time. In the end, if they failed here - there would always be a Plan B.

    Jefferson silently moved around the room. He seemed to know what he was doing, almost too well. He crept around the room so silently, that if Dylan wasn't facing him, she wouldn't have even known he was there at all. It seemed that Jefferson had been in the situation of sneaking around before, searching for something that wasn't his. He glanced around, side to side, sweeping the room for any object that he recognized Regina having in the past world. The world they belong, yet were torn from. He saw nothing. Of course, Regina was too smart to leave something like that out in plain sight. He slipped over to the fireplace in the center side of the room. He looked at the shelf above it, but found nothing other than a picture of Regina and Henry, her son. He squinted, caught up on this picture. Why didn't he have any? He had a daughter, close to Henry's age too. Why didn't he have pictures of Grace and himself standing side by side with smiles on their face? Why didn't he have pictures of them playing on playgrounds, sending her to school, watching her graduate? He didn't even have a single baby picture. He stared at the picture. It was obvious the search was over. Jefferson's mind was elsewhere, caught up in sad memories and thoughts.


    Regina could almost sense the tension in Dylan, and at her mention of it being dangerous to leave town, the queen knew Jefferson had been infecting her mind with stories. She kept her smile thought, simply laughing at her statement "Oh my dear..no! It's perfectly safe.." She stated, smiling kindly at Dylan. She seemed to realize that Jefferson wasn't off to the side of her anymore. She glanced sharply towards the left, noting that Jefferson was just standing there staring at her picture frames. She simply got a pitiful look on her face, shaking her head "I would appreciate if you would leave...I have to take Henry to therapy.." She spoke carefully, as if avoiding stepping on anyone's toes. But Jefferson was outraged, even thought he kept his blank expression.


    "He wouldn't need therapy if you'd just listen to him..." Jefferson said hotly, his eyes narrowing at Regina. He seemed dull, dangerous at this point. He kept his voice low, but didn't yell or snap anymore. He simply gazed at Regina, his posture showing just how serious he was about the statement he had made. Regina looked offended, and though Jefferson kept his cool, she did not. "My son has a problem...you should relate.." Her words were harsh, but it didn't break Jefferson's blank expression. He simply glanced to the side, towards the front door as Regina pointed towards it "Now if you'll please be on your way..." She seemed to have regained her composure.

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]Regina was cautious, that was something that Dylan noted almost instantaneously. It was as though she didn't want to say anything that may be exposing, carefully dancing around the opportunity to play the role of anything other than the mayor of this town. Of course, Dylan could not be certain whether or not this was her actual title. Even looking at her, she seemed to be a normal business woman of the upper middle-class. Yet, the more she recalled the hat and Jeffersons emotions, the easier it was to hold on to that goal of helping him. Even if she didn't fully believe the situation. His raw emotion and desire to have his daughter back in his life was enough to keep her rooted there and for reasons of her own. If she were still a child, she would have given anything to have her real father back. To know that he was there, in her life, and not living with a new family only to purposefully shut her out. Not knowing was the worst part, so perhaps this wasn't even for Jefferson. It was for her own peace of mind - for it was too late to repair her own life, but it wasn't too late for Grace.


    "I understand, in that case, we should be leaving - Jefferson." She added calmly. Not finding anything their first attempt was to be expected, but now Dylan knew the bottom layout of the house. They could devise a plan from here on out. Of course, realizing where her thoughts strayed she pulled them right back into line, a little shocked that she had succumbed to mischievous instinct so easily. "There's still a few places I haven't seen around Storybrooke." It seemed she was trying to coax him, silently reassuring that they could return when they were more prepared. Specifically, when they knew what they were searching for and where exactly it might be.


    "Well, it was nice meeting you." She added a little hesitantly, nodding politely to Regina as her gaze drifted to Jefferson just as she turned to face the exit. She had told him she would not dare to leave without him, and she meant it even now. She would only leave the premises if required, but knowing now that if she left through that door without him anything could happen, kept her rooted there, ready to leave but waiting until he joined her on her way out the door. This wouldn't be as easy as she had originally thought, as a lot of rules she didn't even know of played in here and she knew it. But they had to find a way to do this. She needed to help Jefferson. Why? She wasn't sure. But she could discover that in time.

    Walking away...? They were walking away? No! Jefferson hasn't gotten the object! He hadn't even located it! His eyes widened slightly, a look of panic coming over his face. Was this happening? He had simply come here to be mocked by the looks of it, called crazy then cast away. He bit his lip, seeming distressed. It gave away their cool cover, even his cool demeanor, but he couldn't help it. The thought of him leaving without hope of gaining his daughter back, it was simply heartbreaking. Impossible almost. He refused to leave, he couldn't. He had to have hope, he had to! There he went again, thinking crazy things, no wonder they thought he was crazy. He clenched his fists, gripping onto his beloved hat. He glanced side to side, his behavior proving just how nervous he was.


    Regina simply smiled innocently, apologizing for sending them off so soon. She didn't seemed to have appreciated Jefferson's comment about her son being perfectly sane. She seemed to think differently, while Jefferson had his heart set on the fact that he, nor Henry was insane. Neither of them were, if anything, Regina was the crazy one. No, not crazy, evil. She was the essence of evil, everything evil revolved around her. She softly patted Jefferson's hat as she spoke "Be careful with whatever you do.." It seemed friendly enough, a welcomed send off, but the look she gave Jefferson, it was obvious it was a threat, a warning. Jefferson simply pulled the hat close to him.


    With a flick of his wrist, Jefferson put on his hat, grabbed Dylan's hand, and pulled her away. He led her out the door with brisk steps, his whole posture going from confident, to defeated. In his mind, there was no second chance. How could there be? Regina knew, she had to know by now that what they were looking for was more than a cup of wine and a nice long talk about the weather. No, they needed something from her, something she would not be willing to give up, something they would have to take. And Regina did not take nicely to stealing. This was a life of death situation, a make it or break it, and they had just broken it. There was no hope, it showed in Jefferson's eyes. There was only one word he uttered once their feet hit the stone porch "Grace.."

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]The look that fell upon Jeffersons face was something she had prepared herself for. And while she felt a little guilty for succumbing to Regina's wishes and dragging him out so abruptly, it was for the best. They weren't going to get anything done but arguing if they remained here, and in the best case scenario they would have both ended up being escorted off the property. So she took the liberty of saving him that waste of time. Besides, after having listened keenly to the words spoken between the two, Dylan had been given an idea. Of course, she couldn't begin spouting nonsense right here in front of the Mayor. So with that in mind, she allowed Jefferson to pull her away without complaint, uttering a soft "Oh?" of surprise as she was forced to pick up her pace just to keep up with him.


    It was only once they reached the porch that she heard Jefferson utter his daughter name beneath his breath. This time - however - it was not in a determined and dedicated tone. In fact, he seemed like he was at a loss, as though for an eternity he would call out that name with no one to answer to it. Maybe he was a little insane, but to watch him suffer life this jus didn't settle well with Dylan. It could never have. And so, tugging his sleeve gently she urged Jefferson to follow her off the porch and to her little silver bug, refusing to say much when they were still so close to Regina's front door. Because of this, the only phrase to escape her was a soft "C'mon..." As she coaxed him to remain alongside her, to follow her. Though it felt odd to be doing something so similar to her other encounter with Jefferson. Frankly, this scene reminded her greatly of her guiding him back up the bank to her car. Only this time, she couldn't be sure where this situation would lead. But she could assume, or at least hope, it wasn't with her being fooled a second time around.


    Once they were closer to the car, Dylan remained on the passenger side with Jefferson, leaning forwards as she sternly tried to force him to meet his gaze. "Listen to me - we're going to get Grace back." Her voice kept low and her words strolling out in a blunt manner, she continued on like this as she spoke to get Jeffersons attention. "But we can't do this now, not like this. It's too risky and it won't work, it's reckless, Jefferson." She urged him to understand, her gaze narrowing slightly as she slipped a look at the house, only to lean back against the car. "I have an idea now, one that's not going to land either of us in prison either." Following her sentence by tapping the roof of the car, she moved around to the drivers side to slip into her seat, all ready to go as she signaled for Jefferson to hurry in as well. Only in the secrecy of her own vehicle did she dare to utter her final phrase. "But first, I need to know more about this Henry kid." She murmured abruptly.

    In Jefferson's mind, he had lost the battle. He was never going to see Grace again. It was like he had blown the only chance of saving her. In his mind, he had failed her and himself, maybe even Dylan. His heart was aching just at the thought of never being able to hold Grace. It made his expression harden, but s green eyes stayed focused on the ground, showing just how hurt he was on the inside. No matter how much he tried to hide it, his eyes always betrayed his feelings. Once he felt Dylan tugging at his sleeve, he trudged beside her, allowing her to lead him along. He was back to his childish behavior, deflated, defeated. It was like nothing mattered.


    Jefferson moved his head slightly to the side, as if not wanting to make eye contact with Dylan once they had reached the car. He simply leaned against the small bug, rocking forward, then back. He took his hat off, giving a faint noise. Maybe it was a whine, maybe a grunt, whatever it was, it sounded pitiful. Finally. He made eye contact with her, though his eyes kept darting away and focusing on something completely different. He heard her words, and they seemed to snap him out of his crazed daze. He blinked at her, squinting slightly. Was she lying to keep him calm? Or did she really beileve they were going to retrieve his precious daughter again? It was worth finding out.


    Bending over, Jefferson slipped into the car, setting his hat on the floor board. He turned his full focus to Dylan, not even his eyes darting away. They stayed locked onto hers. His savior. "Henry..? Well...Henry has this storybook that Snow White..ah..Mary Margaret, his teacher, gave him..anyways! It is full of stories..OUR stories.." He began to explain, having to catch himself with the names. He sometimes forgot that their past names were exactly the same as now. "He believes in the curse..and he knows his mother- step mother, is evil..he believes me..!" He added the last part like that was rare, which obviously it was "It's why Regina takes him to therapy..he's always trying to break the curse..She calls him crazy too.." He bowed his head at this, picking at one of his fingers.

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]Listening to Jefferson confirm her earlier thoughts, a mischievous spark was lit within Dylan's darker irises. When she had first heard Regina speak word of her son going to the therapist, she had gotten the feeling that he was just like Jefferson. He was the only other person in this entire town who could be of use to them, who could help. As crazy as it seemed trusting a child with such a thing, she had honestly done things that reeked of madness far more today alone. "If I'm right, then that means he is the only one in this town who can help us. What a coincidence... that he happens to be her son of all people." Tilting her head back a little to rest it against the seat, Dylan placed her hands on the wheel before sighing and dropping her gaze once more to the scenery ahead. "We won't be able to see him tonight, but sometime when Regina's caught up in her work we need to see this kid. If anyone knows what we're supposed to be searching for, it will be him." If this wasn't the case, then maybe at very least they could ask if he could be their eyes on the inside. Yet again, Dylan was getting herself tangled into this web, unable to escape, only to find herself actually weaving it further with her own hands. Then again, in all honesty with each passing second she simply hoped she was dreaming.


    "I don't know if it will be easy, but it's worth a shot." She added as she turned to look at Jefferson, studying him for a short moment before finally starting the car, only to pull away from the mayors house. That alone had been risky enough - just being in a house with that woman when they were obviously up to no good. But Dylan didn't seem to have been deemed insane by her in the process, and she had managed to get a brief idea of the Queen. Someone who spoke words that were almost too believing. However, it was funny. No more than an hour prior to this Dylan had deemed Jefferson a psychopath, a madman, refusing to believe the lies he told of his far away land and identity. Now, she was trapped fighting the urge to believe the woman who tried place those thoughts in her mind again.


    "So... Snow White?" She began, eyeing with Jefferson as she focused her attention on the road alone. "You think everyone really is here... huh?" Had everyone been torn from their original land? If so, did their lands still remain? Had anyone been left behind? Just thinking about it all was frankly starting to make her feel a little nauseous, dizzy at that. To take in so much in such a small amount of time had taken a big toll on her and her mind, but namely her mental state if you added the kidnapping and drugging. "Anyways, since Regina is taking him to therapy tonight I guess we'll have to wait until tomorrow for our shot." She stated thoughtfully. Now, shaking aside the feeling that wracked her body, Dylan eyed Jefferson through her usual mask. The only question now was where to go?

    Right now Dylan was the only person in the entire town that maybe cared about Jefferson. She hadn't left him when she could have, neither did she call him insane like the rest of the people that resided in to town. She was special. She had made his hat work just with the power of believing in him and his story tales for a moment. What else could she do? It was all so excited to Jefferson, new. Nobody had cared for him before, nobody except his departed wife and his lost daughter. That was saddening to think about, that all he really had was a lonely mansion in the woods and a head full of stories. But now he had Dylan, and with her, he had hope once more. "Oh..not only sly but witty..? I better be careful who I drug next time.." For a moment it was hard to tell if Jefferson was serious, or simply joking, but by the smile that appeared on his face, it was obviously a joke, the first joke he had attempted in front of Dylan. He hadn't seen her smile much, nor did he hear her laugh. He wanted to witness those things. He didn't know why, but for some reason he felt it was important.


    "No..Henry will be easy to pull into our plan..He's very willing with these things" He informed, knowing that if anybody could help them, it would be Henry. It had to be, nobody else believed him. Having somebody beileve in you..it was the best feeling in the world, Jefferson knew that now. If Henry was believed, surely he would help them. After all, his step mother, the evil queen, wasn't very nice to begin with, making it easy for him to spy on her without guilt. Jefferson knew all this, and wondered why he hadn't thought of it before they had blindly ran into the mayors house with no plans.


    Dylan really was a genius! Jefferson squirmed slightly in his seat before looking over at her "Tomorrow morning..that's when Henry goes to school..on his way there we can stop and talk to him.." He paused for a moment, adding a sheepish "I know the route the kids take.." Now that really sounded like a creep thing to do, map out the route the kids take to school, but it wasn't in Jefferson's mind. To him, that was the only way to see his daughter in person for a split second. Not speaking, but watching from a distance. He would often make notes of if she seemed sad that day or joyful. He glanced nervously at Dylan, as if afraid she would deem him crazy again. But before giving her the chance, he added a quick "Because I can see my Grace..."

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]Not a smile, but a faintly mischievous smirk happened to dance across Dylans features, pairing well with her eyes as they brightened a shade or two at Jeffersons words. For an instant, she had been caught off guard by his claim. But that surprise had only shown for a second before fading away as she realized he was only joking. Unfortunately, it seemed smiling was difficult to come by with her. Laughter was no easy feat either, as it had been quite some time since Dylan had genuinely emitted such a sound. If Jefferson did manage to pull such a stunt, one that actually coaxed her into such a fit of happiness, he had to deserve some medal. As that would be phenomenal. "You've got that right." Dylan responded as that smirk remained, nearly teetering on the verge of a crooked smile as she raised a brow before slowing the car to turn off in the direction leaving Storybrooke to head to Jeffersons house.


    "That's good. I think we'll really need the kids help on this one." She agreed thoughtfully, taking a moment to consider this so-called storybook Jefferson had mentioned. So there was a book existing with everyone's true identity's and stories? Now that was very intriguing. After all, she did love a good story. But had this book been the thing to convince Henry into believing? Or was it simply because he was a child who's mind was far more adaptable than her own? She supposed she would have to discover that in the morning.


    It was as Jefferson mention that he knew the route the kids took to school that Dylans gaze immediately softened a touch before she quickly made it a point to conceal that. He needn't even mention that he knew because of his daughter. She was already well aware that he watched over her like any guardian should be allowed to. Like any father. "I understand." Dylan murmured abruptly, he tone taking a lighter edge to it as she slipped a glance at Jefferson whilst she drove. Honestly, it seemed absolutely crazy that his daughter couldn't look him in the eyes and recall his face, his name. She couldn't begin to imagine how much that hurt. But to avoid touching the wound and making it hurt more, Dylan instead gradually shifted the conversation to a rather.... blunt question. "That reminds me-" She began blinking slowly as though she were just now coming to this realization. "Jefferson, do you mind if I spend another night with you?" She asked, finally realizing that she had told the Mayor of all people she would be lingering, only to never have made arrangements in the first place. She hadn't exactly come to Storybrooke with the intent to stay. All she had come with was her little silver bug and whatever belongings she had in it. Leaving her in a rather...troublesome, position.

    Dylan was a sly girl, and he enjoyed that about her. He was intrigued by that, nearly. He grinned softly at the thought, tilting his head as he watched her for a moment. For the first time, he actually saw how beautiful she was. She really was a wonderful person, a beautiful girl with a great personality. He smiled and glanced down again, not wanting to creep her out by his staring. He watched his hat, as if he was waiting for it to do something amazing like it had did in his house.


    Jefferson tilted his head at her question. It was funny to him that she had to ask, so instead, he simply chuckled, shaking his head"Yeah..of course..! Where else would you stay..?" He questioned, tilting his head slightly as they drove closer to his house. To him it was nice to have some company. She was welcome anytime.

    Rushed

    [fancypost borderwidth= 0px; background: url(https://45.media.tumblr.com/f0…eyl617v91qfyjoto1_500.gif); width: 465px; height: 200px; background-position: center;][/fancypost][fancypost borderwidth= 0px; width: 465px; margin-top: -23px; margin-bottom: -23px; text-shadow: 2px 2px black, 1px -1px black, -1px 1px black, -1px -1px black;]I've been broken but I'm better everyday [/fancypost]


    [align=center]"That's great, thanks." Dylan cooed as she guided the car off the main road, heading back up the path to Jeffersons little-secluded mansion. Now she needn't concern herself with sleeping arrangements. Then again, she truly didn't have anywhere else to say. The fact of the matter was she just hadn't anticipated that she would willingly be driving back to her kidnappers house after having asked if she could spend the night like she was speaking with an old friend."I guess I don't really have any other options, do I?" She added, a light tease rolling off her tongue despite the blandness of her tone before her gaze flickered back to Jefferson. "Especially if I'm going to be helping you with Grace." She added, tilting her head slightly before her full attention returned to the path ahead just to see that mansion come into view.


    Only once they were in the driveway did she bring the car to a stop before the doorsteps, this time making sure to remove her keys from the ignition and take them with her. Perhaps from this point forward she couldn't afford to be so careless with her actions. Then again, she was known for her reckless and strange nature back where she had come from, so she supposed such things were inevitable to her. "Well... this is going to be one heck of an experience." She murmured softly as she gazed thoughtfully through the windshield, before turning to glance at Jefferson with a lazy smirk upon her features, before abruptly exiting the vehicle


    (( It's fine ^^ ))