Chapter Text
Rapunzel was overjoyed—no, beyond overjoyed. Just moments ago, Flynn had died in her arms, his eyes dimming, his warmth fading—and now he was here again. Alive. Breathing. Smiling. Hers.
And she was kissing him. Her first kiss. The one she had dreamed of without even realizing it. Her tears—those stubborn, miraculous tears—had carried the last shimmer of her magic and brought him back to her. And now his lips were warm beneath hers, tasting of life and wonder.
He’s here. He’s alive again. And he’s mine. Mine.
Flynn’s mind was spinning. A minute ago, he had felt the quiet pull of death—and then her. Her voice, her tears, her magic. Now her lips pressed to his, soft and trembling, and he could barely think through the dizzying rush of joy.
She’s kissing me. She’s really kissing me. And she’s the one who started it. Does this mean… she loves me too? Could she possibly love me as fiercely as I love her?
He deepened the kiss before he could stop himself, his heart thundering against his ribs. Her hands slipped up to his neck, her fingers small but insistent, drawing him closer, until there was nothing but her—her breath, her warmth, her heartbeat. His own fingers tangled in her short brown hair, marveling at its silkiness.
Rapunzel’s thoughts blurred into sensation. The world melted away until there was only Flynn. His scent. His breath mingling with hers. His heartbeat beneath her fingertips. It wasn’t enough. She wanted more. More closeness, more warmth, more of him. Why isn’t this enough? Why do I ache to feel him nearer, to erase every space between us?
Her hands, trembling but bold, slipped beneath his vest and shirt, finding the heat of his skin. He shivered at her touch, and that shiver sent a thrill through her. She pressed closer, lost to the rush of it and groaned gently.
Then he stiffened.
What—did I do something wrong?
Flynn drew back, breathing hard, eyes dark with something she couldn’t quite name. He looked torn between agony and adoration.
“Whoa, Rapunzel, I—um—wait.”
Her heart lurched. “What is it? Was that… inappropriate?”
“No. No, not at all,” he said quickly, running a hand through his hair. “It’s just… you have no idea what you do to me when you look at me like that, when you sound like that. I—” He broke off, shaking his head. “Before we… before anything else, shouldn’t we talk about—”
“That you’re alive?” she said brightly, her face lighting up.
He blinked, half-laughing despite himself. “Yes, that. I suppose that’s a start. But… how?”
“My tears,” she whispered. “They still had magic.”
“Your tears?”
She nodded eagerly. “Eugene, you were really willing to die for me?”
His expression softened into something almost unbearably tender. He reached up, brushing his thumb across her cheek. “I love you, Rapunzel. Without you… my life would have meant nothing.”
Her heart stopped. Then it soared. He loves me. He really loves me.
“Oh, Eugene,” she breathed. “I love you too.”
He stared, utterly undone. She loves me. She really said it. No one has ever said that to me. Not once. And now—now the most radiant soul in the world says she loves me. How can this be real? How did I ever get so lucky?
“Rapunzel,” he whispered, his voice rough with wonder. “Really?”
She laughed softly through tears. “Yes. I love you.”
He kissed her again, reverently this time, as if afraid she might vanish if he wasn’t careful. But the moment deepened all too easily. Her fingers explored and slipped beneath his shirt again, drawing him down with her until the world tilted.
And he tore himself away, heart pounding. “Rapunzel, no. I can’t.”
Tears welled in her eyes. “Eugene, don’t you want me?”
“Gods, of course I do,” he said, his voice hoarse. “More than anything. But if I don’t stop now, I won’t stop at all—and you might regret it. I could never forgive myself if I hurt you.”
Her confusion was pure and raw. “Why would love ever hurt?”
He swallowed hard. “Because physical love—can have consequences. I could get you pregnant, and if we weren’t married, you’d be shamed. My mother suffered that. My father impregnated her without marrying her first and then left her to raise me alone. She died and I ended up in an orphanage where people never let me forget I was a bastard child. I swore I’d never do that to anyone I loved. I swore I wouldn’t take a woman unless I was married to her.”
“Married?” she repeated softly. “What does that mean?”
“It’s a promise,” he said, smiling faintly. “A vow to stay together forever, to care for one another—and any family that comes from that love. It’s how I’ll make sure you’re never abandoned. Never hurt.”
Her eyes glowed with innocent determination. “Then marry me.”
He froze. “Do you… do you want to marry me? Do you want to be my wife?”
“Yes,” she said without hesitation. “If it means I can kiss you again and love you in that physical sense.”
He laughed—a soft, disbelieving sound—and cupped her face in both hands. She wants to marry me. Stars, how did I ever get this lucky?
Her smile was radiant.
“I promise, I’ll give you everything you are craving. After a proper celebration,” he murmured, pressing his forehead to hers, “I’ll take you far away from this kingdom, somewhere I’m not wanted. I’ll build you a home, a life. I’ll find honest work. And I’ll spend the rest of my life making sure you never shed another tear—unless they’re tears of joy.”
Rapunzel beamed, a glow of pure joy lighting her face—until, slowly, the light dimmed.
Should I tell him? The truth pressed against her ribs like a caged bird. I’m the lost princess.
But then her mind replayed his confession by the campfire—how he had grown up unwanted, unseen, convinced he wasn’t enough. He had created Flynn Rider, a mask built from fear and pain, because the person beneath never felt worthy of anything real.
If I tell him I’m the princess… will he think he’s not enough for me? Will he leave?
Panic tightened in her chest.
What if he insists I return to the palace? To those awful people who sentenced him to die—over a crown. A stupid, meaningless crown. They had spent more effort chasing the man she loved than searching for her. She wasn’t a daughter to them. Just an heir. A symbol.
I can’t lose him. I can’t go back. Even if they are my blood, they have already betrayed me. I will never return to those monsters. But shouldn’t I tell him? How can I keep something so important from the man I love?
“Rapunzel?” Flynn’s voice was soft, full of worry. His hand cupped her cheek. “Is everything alright, my darling?”
Is she regretting this? Regretting me? The thought stabbed him—unwanted but familiar. A lifetime of not being enough had carved that fear into his bones. Why would someone as bright and miraculous as Rapunzel choose a man who had spent his life surviving in the shadows?
“If you don’t want to marry me,” he whispered, voice raw, “we don’t have to. I’ll still make sure you’re safe. I’ll help you find a home, and then I’ll—”
“No.” Her answer was immediate—desperate. “I want it, Eugene. I want to marry you. I want a forever with you. I want… everything with you.” Her voice trembled. “I love you.”
Flynn rested his forehead against hers, smiling like someone who had never known the meaning of the word blessed until this moment.
Her confession wrapped around him like warmth after years of cold. She wants forever with me. How could this be real?
He kissed her slowly, reverently, trying not to lose his fragile control.
“Oh, my Rapunzel,” he whispered against her lips. “I love you more than my own life.”
His voice trembled with awe. “How did I get so lucky? What did I ever do to deserve you? I mean, look at me. I’m such a mess. I’m not—” His voice cracked. “I’m not good enough for you. And still you chose me. How can this be real?”
Her heart twisted painfully.
He already believes he’s not enough… and he doesn’t even know I’m a princess. If he knew, he’d push me away. He’d give me back. He’d leave to protect me—even if it destroyed him. Or worse, he takes me back and they take him from me. They already tried to hang him. What if they try again? No! I can’t lose him. Not again. Never again.
“Everything really alright, my heart?” Flynn murmured, brushing a soft kiss to her temple.
“Yes,” she answered too quickly.
He pulled her gently into his arms, holding her as though she were something fragile—something irreplaceable. “You’re still shaken from that horrible experience. But don’t worry. Your mother is gone now. She can’t hurt you anymore.”
He lifted her hands, his lips brushing tenderly over the bruised marks where Gothel’s chains had bitten into her skin. He didn’t care that one of his own wrists was still shackled; the only pain that mattered was hers.
“Does it still hurt?” he asked, voice low, raw with worry. I will never let anything hurt her ever again. He swore it silently, fiercely, like a vow carved into his soul.
Rapunzel felt her heart swell and soften all at once. He touches me like I’m something precious. He loves me without wanting anything in return. How could I ever risk losing that? Losing him?
Her fingers threaded into his hair, and she leaned into him, letting her heartbeat answer the question she couldn’t speak.
“No,” she whispered. “It’s okay.”
Because right here, in his arms, it finally was.
“I mean… I guess some parents are just awful. Like your father.” Rapunzel murmured softly.
Flynn’s jaw tightened—in anger toward memories he wished he could scrape out of his own history. “Yes. Most royals are like that—powerful enough to take what they want and then walk away without consequence.”
Rapunzel blinked. “Wait… your father was royalty? Does this mean you’re a prince?”
Her heart fluttered with a tiny, wild spark of hope. If he is a prince, maybe the kingdom won’t fight us. Maybe no one could take him from me.
“Oh, no,” he said with a humorless laugh. “I wasn’t born legitimate. No title. No claim. Most people just called me a mistake.”
Her breath caught. A mistake? The boy who grew into the man she loved—who held her like something precious—had been treated like an inconvenience.
Her heart cracked for him. And if he knew I was the princess, he’d push me away. He’d think I belonged to a world that never wanted him. He’d walk away for my sake— even if it destroyed him. Or they’d take him away and kill him again. No, no, no!
She couldn’t breathe.
Flynn squeezed her hands. “But don’t worry. I swear, I’ll find honest work. I’ll build you a home. I’ll work, I’ll sweat, I’ll bleed if that’s what it takes. You’ll never want for anything.”
He meant it. She felt it in the steady warmth of his hands, the quiet trembling in his voice. He doesn’t promise easily. But with me, he promises everything.
“Eugene,” she whispered, “hypothetically speaking… if you did have a title, would the world accept our love?”
He didn’t hesitate. “Surely not. But it wouldn’t matter. I’d marry you anyway—even if every person in every kingdom stood against it.”
Her heart leapt—and then crashed. Because she knew what he didn’t.
“And… hypothetically,” she pressed, voice trembling, “if the roles were reversed—if I were the royal—and I wanted to give it up for you?”
Flynn froze.
His voice was gentle, but final. “I could never let you do that.”
Her breath caught. “What?”
“If you were a princess, Rapunzel, you’d deserve… better than someone like me.” His eyes clouded with old wounds and unspoken insecurities. “I would never let you sacrifice your world for a man who has nothing.”
Oh. That was the moment her heart broke. Now it’s settled. I can never tell him. If he knew the truth, he wouldn’t stay. He’d give me back to them. He’d leave me to protect me, even if it shattered him.
He frowned slightly. “Why are you asking?”
She forced a smile that trembled at the edges. “Oh… I was just curious, that’s all. But it doesn’t matter. What matters is that we’re getting married, right? And then we’ll leave this awful kingdom behind—the one that tried to kill you over a stupid crown—and we’ll start our own life together. Just us.”
Her voice became breathless with longing. “And we’ll… love each other fully. In every way. Even in that physical sense.”
His eyes darkened with desire and devotion. “Of course, my darling.”
She kissed him, and the world vanished. Her arms slid around his neck, clinging to him like he was the last real thing in existence. He tasted like hope and heat and forever.
Flynn melted into her kiss, but even while passion surged through him, one desperate thought echoed: I will spend every day proving I’m worthy of her.
Rapunzel pressed her body to his, kissing him with a hunger born of fear and love and urgency. I won’t let anything take him away from me. Not fate. Not blood. Not destiny.
In that kiss, they both clung to the same fragile, dangerous truth: They were each other’s whole world.
She didn’t let him pull away—not even for breath. Rapunzel caught his face in her hands and kissed him again, fierce and overflowing with relief. She climbed into his lap like she had always belonged there, as though the universe had carved that place just for her.
Flynn let out a helpless sound, his hands instinctively finding her hips. Slow down—no, don’t. Please don’t. He knew he should pull back, that he should think, but every brush of her lips, every whispered sigh against his mouth shredded what little restraint he had left.
Rapunzel nipped gently at his lower lip, and he groaned before he could stop himself. Stars above… she is going to unmake me. And I would gladly let her.
With surprising strength, she pushed him backward, guiding him down onto the floor. He let her, utterly powerless against the pull of her. Their mouths met again, urgent and hungry. Her hands slid beneath his shirt, fingertips tracing the warm lines of his stomach.
His breath caught. Don’t stop touching me. I can’t handle this. How is it possible to need someone like this?
Rapunzel didn’t understand the effect she had on him. She only felt the rush—his heat, the way his breath shook when she touched him. Something deep inside her urged her closer, closer, always closer.
I don’t know why I need him like this. I just do. I want all of him. I want to erase every mile that was ever between us.
Flynn trembled. His hands gripped her waist, not to push her away—to keep himself from losing control completely.
Careful. If I don’t stop now, I won’t be able to. I want her under me, above me, around me, beside me for the rest of my life. I want every version of forever with her. I want to give her everything I never had.
He kissed her back with desperate abandon—until suddenly he forced himself to stop.
His forehead pressed to hers, breathing uneven. “You have no idea what you’re doing to me,” he whispered, voice rough with restraint. “But I can’t… not yet.”
Rapunzel blinked, dazed from the intensity. “Why?”
“If you were pregnant before we were married,” he said, voice barely steady, “I could never forgive myself. I will not let you be shamed. I won’t repeat the life my mother had to endure.”
Her heart softened, aching for him. He’s trying to protect me… even from himself.
“But we are getting married, aren’t we?” she asked, brushing his cheek.
“Yes,” he said instantly, like the word had been waiting his whole life to be spoken. “But not like this. Not without doing it right.”
“Then marry me now.”
Flynn almost laughed—painfully, lovingly. “Rapunzel, it’s not that simple. We need a chapel. A priest. Rings. Paperwork.”
“I don’t care about any of that.”
“But I do,” he said. “It’s not official without it. And you deserve official.”
She huffed, frustrated. “Then take me to a chapel.”
He rubbed the back of his neck. “I barely have money for food. I need to work first. To buy you a ring, a dress—someplace for us to live. A wedding gift. Something that shows you matter to me.”
“You don’t need to get me anything.”
“Yes, I do. I want to. And I won’t take you until you’re legally my wife.”
“You said marriage is a promise,” she insisted. “If we promise, aren’t we already married?”
“We can promise,” he murmured, thumb brushing her cheek, “and I will keep that promise with my whole life. But I need to give you the celebration you deserve before I—before we—go further.”
“Oh, you are so stubborn,” she said, half annoyed, half hopelessly in love.
“We can say we’re married,” he murmured, “but I won’t cross that line until it’s real. Signed. Sealed. Witnessed.”
“Fine,” she snapped softly. “And when will that be?”
“When I’ve earned enough to give you everything you should have.”
“We could just take Mother’s money.” Rapunzel gestured around the tower. “She won’t need it. She fell out the window and turned to dust.”
Flynn shook his head, firm. “No. I promised myself I wouldn’t steal again. Not even from that witch. I will work. I will earn. I will become the man you deserve.”
Rapunzel looked at him, heart full to bursting. He isn’t withholding himself because he doubts me. He’s doing it because he respects me. Loves me. Wants our forever to start the right way.
She leaned her forehead against his. And I know there is nothing in any kingdom—money, title, destiny—that could ever compare to him.
Flynn brushed a loose strand of hair from her face, his eyes soft but fierce with determination. “Tomorrow,” he began, voice low and steady, “we leave. I’ll take you somewhere I’m not wanted. Somewhere far away from this kingdom. Somewhere we can start over. Somewhere only we exist.”
Rapunzel’s eyes lit up. Anywhere with him. Anywhere he wants me. “I want that,” she whispered, her hand resting against his chest. “I want to go with you. I want everything you said.”
He smiled, brushing his lips briefly across her temple. “Good. Then we’ll go, and I’ll find honest work. I’ll earn enough for a proper ring, a proper home for us. And when the time comes, I’ll marry you properly. With rings, vows, everything. The way it should be.”
She leaned into him, heart soaring. He’s going to take care of me. We’re going to be together. Forever. “I want that too,” she murmured. “I want you to do all of that… for us.”
Flynn’s chest tightened at her words. I will do anything for her. Anything. But his eyes softened. “For now, though… you need rest. After all you’ve been through today—after everything…” He hesitated, brushing a gentle thumb across her cheek. “You need to recover a bit before we start our forever.”
She blinked, reluctant to let go of him even for a moment, but nodded. “Okay,” she whispered. “If you say so…”
With care, he picked the lock of his shackle. The click of the lock freeing his wrist was almost sacred to them both. Flynn gently lifted her into his arms, holding her close as he carried her up the tower stairs. Rapunzel’s arms instinctively wrapped around his neck, and her cheek pressed against his chest.
He feels so strong. So safe. I never want to leave this place—his arms.
When he reached her room, she let out a small, hopeful laugh. “You’re coming to rest with me, aren’t you?” she teased lightly, trying to tug him closer toward the bed.
Flynn hesitated, guilt tightening his chest. Not yet. Not until marriage. “I… I can’t, Rapunzel. I won’t cross that line.”
Her lips curved into a playful, determined smile. “But we said we were already married.”
He chuckled softly, though the sound was laced with longing. “We can say that,” he admitted, “but I won’t… not until there’s a proper celebration. I won’t take what you deserve before that day.”
Her pouting face nearly undid him. I can’t stand seeing her sad… He swallowed hard. He loved her so desperately, so fully, every part of him aching to be closer, to take her into his arms completely. But he couldn’t. Not yet.
Instead, he lowered her gently onto the bed, letting her snuggle on top of him. Rapunzel rested her head on his chest, fingers tracing absent-minded patterns over his vest. He kissed her temple softly, murmuring against her hair.
I can give her this… I can hold her… He pressed a kiss to the crown of her head. This is enough for now. This is love without losing what makes her sacred.
Rapunzel tilted her head up, brushing her lips briefly against his, letting her hands wander under the edge of his vest. She tried to pull him closer, straddle him, ignite the longing that flared between them.
Flynn’s chest tightened, desire and restraint clashing inside him. He gently pulled back, cradling her close but firm. “Not before marriage,” he murmured, voice low, almost desperate.
She pouted again, lips quivering. “But… we said we were already married.”
He cupped her face in both hands, brushing a gentle kiss to her lips. “We can say that all we like,” he admitted, voice raw with longing. “But I will not take you until we have a proper celebration. You deserve that, Rapunzel. I love you too much to do anything less.”
She sighed, nestling closer to him, accepting the warmth and the closeness they could share for now. Her small hands tangled in his hair as he kissed her temple again and again, each touch reverent, each embrace full of restrained passion.
This is enough for tonight, he thought. I can hold her. I can love her this way. And one day soon… everything else will come.
Rapunzel pressed herself closer against Flynn, heart full of joy, warmth, and the knowledge that he belonged to her—and she to him—completely. Her lips brushed his again and again, each kiss a desperate release of relief, love, and longing. Her heart raced, full of the joy of having him alive, here, hers, and yet a shadow lingered.
I should tell him the truth… she thought, a pang of guilt twisting her chest. He deserves to know. But… what if he takes me back? What if they take him from me? They almost hanged him today—just for a crown. I can’t risk losing him again. Not like that. Never again.
Flynn pulled back slightly, resting his forehead against hers. His hand brushed her cheek, and his eyes searched hers, vulnerable, full of questions he barely dared to ask.
Is she regretting me? Does she wish I weren’t here? he wondered. Why would someone like her choose a lowly thief like me? After everything… am I really good enough for her?
“Rapunzel… are you alright?” he asked softly, voice trembling just a little.
She shook her head, then pressed a quick kiss to his lips. “I’m fine, Eugene. I’m… I’m more than fine. I want you. I want us. I want to be with you… in every way that matters.”
Her hands slid beneath his vest and shirt again, teasing the edges, trying to feel the warmth of him, the steady thrum of his chest.
Flynn’s jaw tightened, longing and restraint warring inside him. She wants me. She’s asking for everything… and I will give it to her, but not until the right time. She deserves that. I will wait for her.
“I promise,” he murmured against her lips, pressing his forehead to hers, “we’ll get there soon. I’ll get you a ring, a proper celebration, and then… everything you crave. Everything you deserve.”
Her eyes softened with relief, but she sighed, pressing her face to his chest. “I want to leave this awful kingdom. Never come back. They tried to kill you… over a crown. A stupid piece of metal. I can’t go back there.”
Flynn’s grip around her tightened protectively. “We’ll leave it tomorrow,” he promised, his voice low and certain. “Far away from them. Far away from anyone who could ever hurt you—or me.”
Rapunzel let herself melt against him, the tension of the day and the fear she had carried finally slipping away in the warmth of his arms. Her eyelids grew heavy as she pressed her cheek to his chest, breathing in the scent of him—safety, love, and home all at once.
I’m safe. I’m here. He’s mine. I can finally rest, she thought, letting her mind drift, letting her body sink into the comfort of him.
Flynn stroked her hair, listening to the gentle rhythm of her breathing as she fell asleep. She’s finally resting. Finally safe. I’ll protect her with everything I am. Every doubt I have about myself—none of it matters. She loves me, and I love her. I will give her the world she deserves. Starting tomorrow, I’ll make her dreams real.
He pressed a soft kiss to the top of her head, holding her as close as he could without breaking the promise he had made to himself. I won’t take her yet, not until she’s mine properly. But this—this closeness—I’ll cherish. Every heartbeat, every breath, every tiny sigh. It’s enough… for now.
Rapunzel nestled deeper into his chest, and Flynn let out a long, quiet sigh of relief. They had survived death, magic, betrayal, and fear. Tomorrow, they would begin the life they had both dreamed of but tonight, they simply held each other. And that was everything.
Later, the darkness of the night pressed in around Rapunzel, but it was not sleep or the darkness she feared—it was the nightmare that came unbidden, sharp as a knife.
He’ll find out… she thought, heart pounding even in the dream. He’ll know I’m the princess. He’ll insist… he’ll take me back. I can’t… I can’t go. I won’t let them take him. Not again.
She saw it all play out in cruel detail: the moment they returned to the palace, the guards closing in, Flynn captured, his eyes pleading, and then—the noose. Her hands flew to her face as the vision of him hanging seared itself into her mind.
Rapunzel awoke with a strangled cry, clutching at the blankets, her heart hammering. Flynn was instantly at her side, eyes wide with alarm.
“Rapunzel? What is it? What’s wrong?” he asked, his voice taut with fear. He wrapped her in his arms, holding her close, pressing gentle kisses to her hair.
She trembled, burying her face against his chest. I can’t tell him the truth. If he knows, he’ll insist on taking me back… or someone will try to take him again.
“I… I just… I dreamed…” she choked out. “The kingdom… they captured you… and… and hanged you.”
Flynn’s chest tightened violently, a sharp, painful twist of fear and heartbreak. Even in a dream, she imagined me dying. She’s terrified I could be taken from her again. She can’t even sleep without fearing it.
He pulled her close, hugging her tightly, as if his arms could shield her from every shadow in the world. He pressed kisses to the top of her head, to her temple, and finally to her damp cheek, letting his lips brush away the tears she couldn’t hold back.
“I will never leave you again,” he whispered between kisses, voice raw with certainty. “I swear it, Rapunzel. Nothing—nothing—will take me from you. I promise.”
She lifted her tear-streaked face slightly, letting her lips brush his as she clung to him. “I still… I still want that closeness, Eugene,” she murmured.
He cupped her face, pressing his forehead to hers. “I know, my heart. And you will have it… soon. Once we’re married. Just a few more days at most.”
Rapunzel’s hands clutched at his shirt. “No… I don’t want to wait. I don’t want to risk losing you again. I want it… now.”
Flynn swallowed hard, desire and love twisting through him, but he held her gaze with unwavering determination. She’s mine. I will protect her honor. I won’t take it yet. Not without giving her everything she deserves.
“As soon as possible,” he promised softly. “I swear it. I’ll make it happen. But for now… just rest in my arms.”
She sighed, leaning into him again, and they kissed, full of the yearning they both felt. His hands held her close, steady and loving, careful not to give in to the desperate hunger that flared whenever she pressed against him.
The next morning, Flynn rose early, carrying her to the kitchen as she clung to him, still small in his arms. He moved with tenderness, preparing breakfast while she watched him, resting her head against his chest. When he fed her bites of food, he pressed kisses to her hair and cheeks, murmuring again and again: “Nothing will ever take me from you, Rapunzel. I promise. You are mine, and I am yours. Forever.”
She relaxed into him, warmth flooding her chest, but the tiny seed of guilt remained, pricking her conscience. I haven’t told him the truth… not yet. But if I do, it could cost me him. I can’t risk it. I won’t.
Her eyes closed briefly, sighing contentedly. I am safe. He is here. He loves me. And I will not lose him again.
Flynn felt her weight relax against him and let out a quiet breath, relief washing over him. She’s finally at peace, even if it’s just for now. I’ll give her everything she wants, everything she deserves, and nothing will ever take her from me—not now, not ever.
He kissed the top of her head again and smiled softly, the warmth of their love carrying them both into a quiet, perfect morning.
After breakfast, Flynn gently lifted Rapunzel into his arms, carrying her down the hidden staircase out of the tower. He cradled a small basket filled with a few things she wanted to take with her, and Pascal peeked out from the top, chittering happily.
Finally, Flynn thought, we’re leaving that place behind. And nothing will touch her—not now, not ever.
When they reached the bottom and stepped outside, Flynn froze. The tower courtyard was silent, peaceful. Only the witch’s cloak remained, and a small pile of dust where she had fallen.
“She’s really gone,” he murmured, voice soft, almost in disbelief.
“Yes, she is,” Rapunzel replied, tears springing to her eyes. “Thank goodness. I… I don’t care that she raised me, Eugene. What she did to you…” Her voice broke. “I could never forgive her.”
Flynn pressed her against him, kissing her temple, brushing her hair from her damp forehead. No one will ever hurt her again. I swear it.
“Shh,” he whispered. “Again, I promise, I will never leave you. I will work and I will give you the life you deserve. Everything you wish for… I’ll give it to you.”
Rapunzel looked up at him, a small, hopeful smile breaking through her tears. “Even the… the physical closeness I want?”
He nodded gently. “Yes. After a proper celebration, I promise. I’ll give you everything then.”
He placed her carefully on Maximus, who was waiting patiently.
“Maximus is really on your side now?” she asked, brushing the horse’s mane.
“Yes,” Flynn said proudly. “In fact, he’s the one who saved me from being hanged yesterday.”
“Oh, Max! Thank you so much!” Rapunzel hugged the horse’s neck before settling herself more securely.
Flynn mounted behind her, wrapping his arms around her, protective and warm. Her heart beat fast, nestled against him. I am so safe with him. So loved.
“We leave the kingdom today,” he said softly, resting his chin on her shoulder. “We’ll find a village somewhere else, I’ll find work, and then… we’ll marry as soon as possible.”
“That sounds wonderful,” she murmured, leaning back into his chest, enjoying the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. This is it. This is freedom. This is us.
“Hold on tight, sunshine.”
Rapunzel tilted her head with a teasing smile. “Sunshine?”
“Yes,” he said, brushing a kiss along her temple. “Because you light up my whole world.”
Her chest swelled. “Oh… how sweet. I love you so much.”
“I love you more,” he murmured, lowering his lips to hers in a gentle, lingering kiss. Her hands wandered beneath his vest again, brushing against the warmth of his chest. He gently pressed them back, keeping her close but restrained.
“Soon, Rapunzel. Soon,” he promised, voice husky with longing. I’ll give her everything she wants… as soon as possible.
Maximus carried them through the winding roads, the fields opening to the borderland of the kingdom by afternoon. Flynn guided her carefully through the quiet village, asking about work. Every “no” weighed on him.
Come on, he thought frantically. I don’t need much. Just enough for a ring, a white dress, a small place for us. Just enough to give her the proper life she deserves.
Rapunzel watched him, heart aching. He shouldn’t have to work one day after everything… after literally dying yesterday. My poor Eugene… But he wants to earn it himself. He’s so stubborn… and so sweet.
Finally, a farmer agreed to let Flynn help, though it was hard, back-breaking work carrying sacks of grain. Her chest tightened watching him struggle, every movement reminding her how fragile he still was. He’s doing this for me. He wants to give me everything. I have to let him.
Flynn glanced at her when he could, forcing a reassuring smile through his exhaustion. She worries about me too much. I’ll keep her safe, and I’ll give her the life she deserves. Every piece of it.
Evening came, and the farmer slipped a few coins into his hand. Flynn straightened, wiping sweat from his brow, and approached Rapunzel.
“I just earned my first honest money,” he said with a proud grin.
Rapunzel’s heart leapt, but her voice was soft, anxious. “Oh, Eugene… I’m so proud. But you’re still weak from yesterday. You shouldn’t have to work so hard.”
“I’m fine, my darling,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to her temple. “I just need to work for my wife.”
She sighed, a mixture of love and frustration. “And I need to worry about my stubborn husband.”
“But now,” he said, holding her hands in his, “I can finally get you that ring. And I will.”
They made their way to a small jeweler’s shop. Flynn couldn’t afford anything flashy, but Rapunzel’s smile at the modest ring was brighter than any crown. When he handed it to her, pressing a gentle kiss to her lips, she whispered, “Are we married now?”
He shook his head gently. “No, we need a proper celebration with rings, vows and a church.”
Rapunzel tilted her head, unbothered. “Then let’s go to a church.”
Flynn chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “We will, my heart. But first… a white dress, a proper home, a proper celebration.”
Rapunzel leaned against him, letting his warmth anchor her. He loves me so much… more than anything. And he wants me to have everything, the right way. I can trust him… I have to.
Flynn kissed her forehead, heart swelling with devotion. I will give her every bit of happiness I can. She’s mine, and I’ll make sure she knows it every single day.
“You deserve every tradition.”
Tradition.
The word struck Rapunzel like a cold wind.
Tradition, she echoed bitterly in her mind. Her so-called parents had a tradition of releasing lanterns into the sky every year — not searching for her, not fighting for her, just celebrating their grief like a holiday.
That kingdom had a tradition of hanging people over a crown — her crown — while letting murderers sing songs in taverns without consequence.
And if Flynn ever knew who she really was, surely they would have another tradition: forbidding a princess from marrying a thief and killing him for daring to touch her.
I can’t stand traditions. I know it. Not if they separate us.
“Are you okay?” Flynn asked softly, worry tightening his features. Rapunzel blinked, realizing how deep she had fallen into her thoughts.
Is she already changing her mind? Of course she is, Flynn scolded himself. I’m nothing. I have nothing to offer—no home, no money, no future. Just a few stolen charms and a handsome face. He swallowed hard. What could someone like her possibly want with someone like me?
“Yes. Of course.” Rapunzel forced a smile. I can never tell him. If I tell him, he’ll take me back. They’ll hang him again. And they’ll hand me off to some stranger who doesn’t love me.
Flynn gently took her hand. “Then let me buy you dinner, my darling.”
“But we were getting married,” she protested.
“I won't let you go hungry, sunshine,” he murmured. “And I don’t know if the money I earned today will be enough to buy you a dress and… bribe the priest to marry us, since we’re not from here. Or to rent you a room at the inn tonight. I might need one more day of work.”
“No, just take this.” She reached for a small pouch of coins she had taken from the tower.
Flynn caught her wrist, voice firm. “No, Rapunzel. I’m not stealing again.” I promised myself I’d become the man she deserves. I will not break that promise.
“It’s not stealing. Mother owes it to me.”
“But I should be the one to earn money for you.” Because you deserve someone better. Someone good. Not a man who spent his life living by lies and theft.
“Come on,” she urged softly.
Flynn counted the few remaining coins from the farm work. He exhaled in defeat.
“This will be enough to buy dinner,” he said, though exhaustion weighed on his shoulders. “And… enough to rent you a room alone in an inn for the night.”
“What?” Rapunzel blinked. “Alone? No. I want to be with you.”
“They won’t take us both in without being married.”
“Then let’s marry this evening.”
“Rapunzel…” Flynn groaned softly.
“Yes, then you can give me the closeness you promised.”
Flynn felt heat rise to his face. She wants me that much. She wants us that much. “Rapunzel, please. That closeness could mean a child. Do you really want to risk that so soon?”
“I don’t care. I would love that child if it were ours. But I can’t control this—this longing anymore.”
Her voice trembled with emotion. Flynn’s heart nearly cracked. She wants me. Me. But I won’t take something from her she can never get back.
“Okay,” he whispered, defeated by love. “Whatever you wish. But you’ll have to wait until after a proper celebration.”
“Then let’s have one now.”
“But… the money—”
“Take this money,” she insisted, holding out the pouch.
He closed his eyes. Why does she make this so hard? Why does she choose me, when she could have everything?
“Rapunzel,” he whispered, “you deserve better. You deserve a husband who can provide for you.”
“You did that today,” she said, voice full of fierce tenderness.
“It’s not enough. I need to earn more.”
“But I’m not sleeping in an inn without you.”
Flynn froze.
Suddenly the darkest thoughts clawed up his spine. What if there are bad men at that inn? What if someone tries to hurt her? What if I’m not there to protect her? But they won’t take us both in without a marriage certificate. And how could I let her sleep in the forest where it’s cold and dangerous? Where wild animals or ruffians could come and attack her while I’m asleep, unable to stop it. He dragged a shaking hand over his face. I can’t risk something happening to her again. Never again. I have to keep her safe at all costs.
“Eugene, please,” she whispered. “Just… marry me. Take the money if you need to follow those stupid traditions. But please don’t make me wait any longer.”
Her eyes shone with desperation — but not selfishness. Fear. Fear of losing him. Fear of time slipping away.
Flynn broke.
He took the pouch.
“Alright,” he breathed. “We’ll buy you a dress, bribe the priest, and check into an inn for a few nights. I guess…” A sad smile tugged at his lips. “Your mother really does owe you. After all those horrible things that witch did to you. I mean, I also once robbed crown jewels from my father.” His voice went distant. “I told myself he owed it to me, since I’m his illegitimate son he never acknowledged.”
“What?” she whispered.
Flynn shrugged weakly. “I’ve done a lot of things I’m not proud of.”
“That wasn’t bad,” Rapunzel said, her voice full of conviction. “You deserved that. Just like we deserve to use Mother’s money. So…” her eyes warmed with pure hope, “will we do it now? Marry and… everything else?”
Flynn swallowed. She wants me. She chooses me. No one had ever chosen him before.
“Yes,” he said softly. “Let’s do it.”
Rapunzel kissed him fiercely, a kiss filled with love and urgency and relief. Flynn let himself taste that moment for just a heartbeat before he gently broke it — because if he didn’t stop now, he wouldn’t be able to stop at all.
Then, smiling, he swept her into his arms and carried her away.
Flynn carried her through the lamp-lit streets. Every step felt unreal — like he was walking straight into a dream he never believed he was allowed to have.
Inside the small clothing shop, Rapunzel ran her fingers tenderly across fabrics until she found a simple white dress and a soft veil. No jewels. No extravagance. Just something pure — something her.
She could be wrapped in rags, and I’d still think she’s the most breathtaking thing in the world, Flynn thought as he paid. But this… this looks like her heart.
She emerged wearing it, and for a moment Flynn forgot how to breathe.
And then he carried her again, this time to the church.
The priest was dousing candles and preparing to close. His brows lifted sharply when he heard Flynn’s request — especially when he saw how neither of them looked like they belonged here. Suspicion clouded his eyes.
“People don’t usually marry at this hour,” the priest said. “And certainly not strangers passing through. Are you running from something?”
Flynn swallowed. Running toward something. Toward my future. Toward her.
He slipped a few coins discreetly into the priest’s hand.
Another coin.
A third.
Finally, the priest sighed. “Very well. Come inside.”
Flynn laced his fingers with Rapunzel’s, guiding her into the dim, quiet chapel. Maximus and Pascal followed, taking solemn places as if they understood the importance of this moment.
The candles flickered over the pews. Everything smelled like old wood and incense.
This is it, Flynn thought. I never thought I’d marry. Who would ever want me? Eugene Fitzherbert — thief, orphan, mistake. But she does. She wants me. She wants to be my wife.
He turned toward Rapunzel — his Rapunzel — standing in white, her eyes shining as though she were made of light.
How did I get this lucky? How did a life like mine lead me to a miracle like her?
Rapunzel looked up at him, heart racing. He’s really becoming mine. My husband. My future. My whole world. And after tonight… he’ll never be taken from me again.
“Please face each other,” the priest instructed.
Flynn took her hands gently, as though they were fragile glass. His thumbs brushed her knuckles; she trembled under his touch. They exchanged the rings.
“Say your vows,” the priest said.
Flynn spoke first.
“Rapunzel…” His voice wavered with emotion. “My dearest Rapunzel, I promise to love and cherish you forever, until death shall part us again — and longer still. I know now that my love for you doesn’t end with life. I promise that you will always be safe with me. That every day, you will wake knowing how deeply I love you… and how much I respect you. I promise to never break your trust, and to always be truthful.”
Rapunzel’s heart twisted sharply.
Truthful.
She felt the word stab her. She was doing the opposite. She was hiding who she was — that she was the lost princess. She was lying to protect him… but lying all the same.
I’m not truthful. I’m a liar.
But if I tell him, I’ll lose him. They’ll take him from me again — maybe kill him for real this time. I can’t risk that.
“Miss?” the priest prompted gently. “Your vows?”
“Oh—yes.” She swallowed. “Eugene, I promise to love and cherish you forever, until death shall us part again… and to love you and…” Her voice faltered. She was flustered, spiraling.
Say anything but the truth. Anything but honesty.
“Um… and to stay with you forever. Until death shall us part...again. And longer than that.”
Stay. With him. Forever.
And if the truth ever came out, she could use her vow as the chain holding them together. He couldn’t give me up since I vowed to stay with him forever.
The priest exhaled. “Well… not the most poetic vows, but heartfelt.” He raised his hands. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss.”
Rapunzel didn’t wait. She threw herself into his arms, kissing him with pure, radiant joy — as though she had been waiting her whole life for this exact breath.
Flynn kissed her back, full of tenderness and awe, until he had to pull away with a soft groan.
“Soon, sunshine,” he whispered, brushing his thumb across her cheek. “Soon.”
They signed the marriage certificate with trembling hands. Flynn held the paper carefully, protectively — proof that this was real.
Rapunzel leaned her head on his shoulder. Married. She was married.
Flynn carried her bridal-style out of the church, his heart pounding with pride and disbelief. She’s my wife. Rapunzel Fitzherbert. Mine.
At the inn, Flynn set her gently down but kept one arm around her waist. He showed the certificate with a pride so fierce it softened into joy.
“We’d like a room,” he said, voice steady. “For us.”
The innkeeper nodded. “Of course, sir. Congratulations.”
Flynn kissed Rapunzel’s forehead as they stepped inside their room — their first home together, even if only for a few nights. And for the first time in both their lives, they belonged to someone.
Flynn closed the door behind him, the soft click echoing in the quiet inn room. The lantern on the bedside table cast warm light across Rapunzel’s veil and the simple white dress that still clung to her. He swallowed hard.
“W-we should rest,” he murmured, voice unsteady.
Rapunzel stepped closer, her eyes glowing with certainty. “Rest? Eugene… you said that after we were married, you’d love me in every way.” Her voice trembled with vulnerability. “Don’t you want me?”
Want her? I’ve wanted her every second since the moment under the lanterns.
Flynn reached up, brushing a stray curl from her cheek. “Rapunzel, of course I want you. I want you so badly it terrifies me. I’m just… nervous. I’ve never done this before. I don’t want to hurt you. I want your first time — our first time — to be perfect.”
She deserves gentle. She deserves sacred. She deserves everything I never thought I could give.
She softened, then rose onto her toes and kissed him—slow at first, then deepening with urgency. Her hands slid to the buttons of his vest, fumbling, determined.
“You could never hurt me,” she whispered against his lips. “It will be perfect because it’s you.”
His breath hitched. Her certainty melted the last of his hesitation.
“Okay,” he breathed, voice rough with need. “As you wish.”
He kissed her, slow at first, then deeper, letting every unspoken promise pour into the way his hands framed her face. She tasted like new beginnings. Like trust.
Rapunzel pulled him closer, fingers sliding up the back of his neck. He’s really mine. Not because of fear or fate — because he chose me.
He lifted her, easing her onto the bed as though she were something precious. Because to him, she was.
“Tell me if you need me to stop,” he murmured, brushing a curl from her cheek. “Your comfort comes first. Always.” I’d stop breathing before I’d ever hurt you.
Her hand found his and squeezed. “Don’t stop.”
Their lips met again — not frantic now, but reverent. Each kiss was a conversation: I love you. I choose you. I’m here.
They undressed slowly, helping each other, laughing softly when fingers fumbled. There was no rush, no fear — only warmth and wonder. Flynn’s hands trembled; not from desire, but emotion.
I never thought I’d be worthy of something this real.
Rapunzel traced the line of his jaw, eyes shining. How could he ever think he’s not enough? He’s everything.
When he finally joined her, it wasn’t rushed. It wasn’t frantic. It was slow — a gentle giving of self. Their bodies moved together, hearts racing in the same rhythm. He kissed her collarbone, her shoulders, her temple, her cheeks, her trembling smile.
She arched toward him, not because of instinct, but because she felt safe — finally safe.
This is what love feels like, she realized. Not possession. Not control. Freedom.
Flynn buried his face in her shoulder, overwhelmed by the intimacy, by the trust she offered him so freely. She chose me. Me. Eugene Fitzherbert. How can this be real?
He whispered against her skin, “Rapunzel… I love you more than anything I’ve ever known. Even more than life itself.”
“And I love you,” she breathed, pulling him closer. “In every way.”
Their movements grew together, steady and tender — not perfect, but perfectly theirs. Breath mingled with breath. Hearts pressed close. The world disappeared.
And when they finally collapsed together, tangled in each other, Flynn gathered her into his arms, pressing a kiss to her hair.
Rapunzel rested her cheek on his chest, feeling his heartbeat against her palm.
Home, she thought. I found home.
Flynn closed his eyes, overwhelmed by love. Thank you for choosing me.
Wrapped in the quiet glow of the candle, they lay tangled in the sheets, their breathing still uneven. Rapunzel rested against Flynn’s bare chest, her fingers idly tracing the scar from Gothel on his stomach as though memorizing him one touch at a time.
Flynn brushed a curl from her face, voice hushed with concern.
“Are you okay? I… didn’t hurt you, did I?”
She lifted her head, eyes glowing with a soft, sleepy wonder. “No. It was… bliss.” Her cheeks warmed. “You made me feel loved, cherished, seen.”
Relief flooded through him so deeply he had to close his eyes. Thank God. I’d die before hurting her.
He kissed her forehead, then her lips. “It was bliss for me too.”
Their mouths met again — slower this time, more confident. Rapunzel melted into him, the world shrinking to the warmth of his hands and the steady beat of his heart beneath her palm. She straddled him. Her voice was barely a whisper.
“Eugene… I want you again.”
His pulse stumbled.
She wants me. Me. Not a fantasy, not a real prince — just me. Gosh, how did I ever get so lucky?
He cupped her cheek, reverence in every touch. “As you wish, sunshine.”
The covers shifted as they pulled each other closer. The candle flickered, and the room disappeared into soft, breathless sweetness — not rushed, not desperate, but full of discovery. A second time, they gave themselves to each other with the certainty of people who knew they belonged.
Later, spent and wrapped in nothing but warmth and each other, Flynn kissed her forehead.
“I’m never leaving you,” he murmured, voice thick with emotion. “Not now, not ever. I’m staying with you for the rest of my life.”
Rapunzel let out a blissful sigh, pressing her cheek to his chest. His arms were around her, solid, safe, hers. And yet…
The guilt returns.
The truth sat heavy in her heart: I’m the princess. If she told him, he might take her back. She might lose him forever.
I promised to stay. I never break a promise. If telling him risks losing him, then silence protects that promise.
She curled closer, as if she could hide from her own thoughts in the warmth of his heartbeat.
I can’t lose him. Never again.
Flynn felt her snuggle tighter and smiled, heart full to bursting. How did someone like me get someone like her? He pressed a soft kiss to the top of her head, overwhelmed. She’s my miracle. My whole world. I don’t deserve her but I’ll spend every day trying to be worthy of her. I’ll give her everything she needs, everything she wants always.
His arms tightened around her protectively.
Rapunzel’s eyes fluttered closed, lulled by his heartbeat. He held her as though she might vanish if he let go. A soft peace settled over them.
Home, she thought as sleep claimed her. He’s my home.
Heaven, he thought as he drifted off. She’s my heaven.
And then they finally slept in each other’s arms.