New Beginnings

20

STORYBROOKE - PRESENT - MARY MARGARET'S APARTMENT

August installed a deadbolt on the front door as Emma, Emmett and Mary Margaret watched.

"No one... Is getting through that," August said.

"Wow. When are you installing the torture chamber?" Emma questioned.

"You don't like it? I call it Medieval Chic."

Mary Margaret shrugged. "I don't care what it looks like, as long as it keeps Regina and her skeleton keys out."

"This is pretty handy for a writer," Emma noted. "Where'd you learn how to do it?"

"Wood shop. Eighth grade," August replied.

"Oh, speaking of school, have to get going," Mary Margaret said.

Emma turned to her. "Um, are you sure you're ready to go back?"

"After a stint behind bars, how tough can a room full of fourth graders be? Besides, aren't you the one we need to be worried about?"

"Me? Why?"

"Well... Your brother did threaten to take Henry away from Regina," August reminded her.

Emmett shook his head. "Oh, that wasn't a threat. I'm hiring Mr. Gold to help build a case against her. She tried to frame you for murder."

"But, you do know what happens if you win?" Mary Margaret asked.

"Yeah."

"And you're ready? To be his dad?"

"Yeah."

Henry's voice came through the walkie talkie.

"Code red. Code red."

Emma picked it up and responded. "Hey, Henry. What's going on?"

Henry replied, "Meet me at Granny's. Emmett too. It's an Operation Cobra emergency."

"We're on our way."

Emma and Emmett left and began walking down the main street towards Granny's Diner.

August followed them. "Emma, Emmett, wait up."

Emma glanced at him. "You heard the kid -- Operation Cobra calls."

"I didn't think you two believed any of that."

"Oh, I don't," Emmett said, noticing April walking up. "But, sometimes, it's the only way to get through to Henry."

"You know, a custody battle against isn't going to accomplish anything. You need to look at the bigger picture. That's the only way you're going to understand what you're up against. That's the only way you'll know how to beat Regina."

"Okay, new guy. How's that?"

"Take the day off. Come with me, and I'll show you two."

"And where exactly would we be going on this magical mystery tour?"

"If I told you, you would never come."

Emma and Emmett walked on ahead.

"Oh, come on," August said. "Take a leap of faith. You come with me and April , and I promise you -- you'll find exactly what you're looking for."

Emmett pursed his lips. "My kid needs me. I don't have time for faith."

---

Henry was sitting at a booth in the diner. He had a cup of hot chocolate, had a plate of food, and his book on the table. Emma and Emmett sat next to Henry.