Flynn...Again...and A Talk.

I'm going to link Zarina's post HERE so you can read about the changes Tangled Fan made.  We have the entire table, now; except Logan, Ray, and Fitz live on the table, too.  They're pretty good, though; Logan usually spends his time out and about, but Ray sticks around with us.  Fitz, for some reason, feels the need to help with the kids.  It's so funny - he was so volatile of a doll when he was "Hans", but now, since he's been out of the box (under the name of Fitz...it's so strange how different the JC Penney's dolls changed!) he's been so kind and shy.  It's amazing!  Audrey's really taken to him. 

Anyway, with that said...Flynn finally got what's been about a year in the making. 
All week, since the 31st, to be exact, he's been harassing me.  Calling me horrible things, saying I'm worthless, saying that Eugene's an idiot and that if he had half of a brain, he would've ignored me like the rest of doll population did back then, saying negative things about our kids and our parenting skills...You name it.  I didn't tell Eugene because...I mean, seriously.  He's probably sick and tired of hearing about complaints over a guy I knew a year ago.  I'M tired of hearing from a guy I knew a year ago!  Ugh.  Regardless.   
I went off on him, after I got a message reading only this:
"Too bad you didn't die when you were delivering your baby.  It's a shame nothing happened to your child, as well.  Such a useless doll, since he's blind.  Of course, coming from a doll like you, he couldn't be anywhere near perfect, now, could he?"  
I found this at about ten AM this morning. 
I couldn't go off on him then, because the kids were up and I was semi-busy with Zachary himself, but once they settled down for their four PM naps, you bet I sent him an email. 
I told him everything I'd ever wanted to tell him.  Maybe I ended up a little harsh, but...I'm sick of it.  Between him and Ariel, I've been experiencing that awful feeling of worthlessness again, and I can't bum around with that.  I've got four kiddos, and I can't be distracted from them, especially over something as STUPID as their opinions!  It makes me mad that I fall into their traps.  But regardless, I'll stop ranting about that and give you the message I wrote him.
"Flynn, I don't know what you want, but you will not get it.  If you're trying to break me, it won't happen, I won't let it.  I was wrong to love you, I knew that as soon as I left the old place.  You might think that I can't remember all the things that you did, but I can.  I can remember almost everything again, which is great.
You know, you are nothing to me.  Your opinions....they can't affect me as well as they did before.  Why?  I have a family.  I'm not alone.  I have a husband who helps me every step of the way.  You might think he doesn't hold a candle to you, but the reverse is true:  YOU don't hold a candle to HIM.  I'd prefer it if you stop insulting him. 
If you send me one more thing about my children, I'm going to get in contact with your wife.  I don't know how, but I will.  You might think she already knows you inside and out, but I knew you longer than she did.  Remember, I can tell her all the things you never wanted her to know.  I know she doesn't like me, but you don't want me to open that can of worms, now, do you? 
Oh, and that little bit about Zachary being imperfect, and 'too bad he didn't die because he's blind'?  He's just fine the way he is.  We love him, and we'll never let that get in the way of how we treat or feel about him.  He's our son. 
Sure, call me whatever you want, say I'm a freak, a loser, an ugly piece of plastic, the most abhorrent doll you ever knew, tell me you wished I had died....but don't you dare say one word about my children or my husband.  Thank you.  If you're planning on emailing back, don't.  I'll figure out your wife's email address next." 
When I punched send, I was filled with a tumult of emotions:  mostly anger, irritation, relief, and more anger...I took a deep breath and huffed it back out, trying to calm myself. 
Eugene popped his head in behind the cutout.  "Hey, is something wrong?" 
"Hm?  Oh!  No, no...nothing's wrong.  What's up?"  I asked, trying to change the subject.  I let the tablet lean up against the bed and looked up at him. 
He strode over and sat down beside me.  "I could hear you huffing around, and I was worried that I'd said something.  I wasn't entirely sure WHAT I'd said that could've set you off, but I wanted to make sure nonetheless." 
I gave him a halfhearted smile.  "No...you didn't make me mad, don't worry." 
"Then what's the matter?  I know something is," he told me.  "I've been wanting to talk to you all week, because I know something's been bothering you, but we just haven't had the privacy to lately." 
I sighed.  I wanted to tell him, but I didn't at the same time...have you ever felt that way?  "Um...Flynn's been emailing me again.  A lot...since the 31st of September."  I bit my lip and paused, looking down at my lap before I spilled it. 

I told him every detail about every little thing.  When I was done, he shook his head. "I can't believe him.  Do you want me to email him?" 
"No.  I sent him a...heh...a lengthy email telling him what I've been wanting to tell him for a really long time."  I sighed again. ( I'm starting to think that today, sighing is my choice way of expressing my emotions.  Sigh.)  "Although...if I would have told him EVERYTHING I thought about him..."
He chuckled.  "That's an email I'd like to see." 
"I just hope I didn't come off as mean." 
My hubby shook his head.  "After all he did to you - after all he's still doing to you--and you're still concerned about being mean?  You're...you're something else.  If I were you, I would've broken his heart and crushed his soul." 
"Maybe I should have.  I'm too soft." 
"No, you're just kind.  You know what it feels like to be treated that way, and no matter who it is, you don't want them to feel the same way.  Right?" 
I shrugged.  "I guess....I should stop being like that.  But there are a lot of things I need to stop being like--"
"Like what?" 
I snorted.  "Have you looked at me lately?  I'm a slob.  I'm still clumsy.  I'm too soft, and if I were harder on people, maybe they'd leave me alone.  I leave a lot to be desired in the appearance department.  I'm too insecure, sensitive, and I can't let things roll off my back...everyone's right about me."   My husband looked so upset at that point.  I felt terrible for obviously making him feel that way.   "I-I'm sorry, I shouldn't have even said anything...I-"
He shook his head.  "No, babe.  Don't feel that way.  I'm so sorry I didn't talk to you sooner-"
"It's fine," I looked down at my lap, holding my breath for a few seconds before letting it all out in a big rush, waiting for a response.  When he remained silent, I bit my lip, wondering if I'd finally annoyed him too much.  But then he spoke up. 
"Sweet girl...everything you said about yourself is just...it's not important.  First of all, everyone is wrong about you.  Yes, they think you're a klutz.  Yes, they think you're less than impressive in the looks and dress departments.  Yes, they think you're too lax, and therefore, they can say anything and have you feel like crap.  But they're wrong, Rapunzel.  They're so wrong...I wish you could see yourself from my eyes.  You're not too lax.  You're one of the strongest people I know.  Sure, you break down every once in awhile, but you're so strong.  You carry a lot of things around with you; all these nasty comments, plus the daily adventures of being a mother and wife...you're strong.  You only break after you get a huge load of all this rudeness and childish behavior piled on, like now.  I knew something was wrong, but to have you put up with that and not even cry or say anything once?!  And yes you're a little clumsy, but it's okay.  I am too; everyone has their oopsies every once in awhile.  You say you're too sensitive, but you know what?  If you're insensitive, then you're like Ariel.  And gosh, Rapunzel, you're so beautiful.  If I were unmarried and had the choice between you and...and Ariel or...or Belle, or...I don't know, Emma...I'd choose you.  I'd always choose you."  he took a deep breath and cupped my face in his hands for a second.  "And do you really think I care how you dress?  You're fine." 
I bit my lip.  "But Ariel and Flynn both said that I was so ugly and dressed crappily.  I felt bad, of course, because...I mean...I don't know.  I'm sure going from a guy's point of view, Ariel's style is much--"
"Ariel's style is way overbearing...yeesh," he shuddered, trying to get a smile out of me.  It didn't work.  "Do you think I'd choose skirts slit way up the sides and seriously low-slung dresses over how my best gal dresses?  Modesty is beautiful, remember," he winked. 
I shrugged.  "I know..I'm just being--I don't even know.  Weird." 
"No, not weird.  It's pretty normal for individuals to let negativity get to them.  That's why you have me,"
"I'm sorry, though.  I hate having to load all this onto you.  You shouldn't have to give me these pep talks every time someone says something bad to me," I licked my lips and looked back down to my hands, which were clasped on my lap. 
He thought for a second, but the next thing I knew, he was gathering me into his lap, cradling me in his arms.  "That's right.  I wouldn't have to, but it's my choice.  There's nothing I would rather do, nowhere I'd rather be, and nobody I'd rather be with.  You're everything to me, and I'm fine with giving you those pep talks every once in awhile.  Okay?" 
I teared up.  Of course I knew that, but I still felt bad for making him have to listen to all my troubles.  Nodding, I tried to keep my tears from spilling.  "Okay.  I know..."
He bumped his forehead against mine, kissing the tip of my nose.  "I love you.  And please...if Flynn starts emailing you again, let me know right away, okay?" 
I nodded.  "I will.  Love you,"
He gave my shoulders a squeeze, which made my heart squeeze, too.  I didn't deserve a guy like him.  We just sat quietly for a few minutes, and he was the first to speak up again.  "Are you feeling any better about anything?" 
I nodded, pulling away enough to meet his eyes.  "Yeah...thank you.  Thanks for putting up with me,"
He chuckled quietly.  "My pleasure, m'lady." 
That got a grin out of me.  "I haven't heard that one in awhile." 
"Mmmhm...and I got a grin to boot.  Bonus points?" 
I laughed quietly.  "You're awful." 
"I know--" he broke off when we heard a faint whimper:  Jordan. 
I pulled away and stood up.  "Duty calls.  Thank you, again, Eugene."
"Anytime, beautiful.  But-wait.  Can't I even steal a kiss before we tend to the kiddos?" 
I shook my head, but I was more than happy to pull him to his feet and give him a quick, soft kiss before we went to get Jordan up. 

This Week, Flynn, and Ariel.

Soo.....This week's been interesting.  On Wednesday, Tangled Fan decided to turn her room upside down in an attempt to clean it. 
She thought it was an excellent idea to cram alllll of us on one side of the table. 
All of us. 
Ariel's been constantly trying to get a rise out of me - via insulting me or my children or trying to get Logan's attention by paying attention to Eugene.
I'm pretty sure that yesterday, Eugene was about ready to clock someone upside the head.  He was pretty irritated.  And by someone, I mean Ariel, Logan, or Punzie --Logan because he won't control Ariel. 
(Although, what's he going to do, really??  I don't think she CAN be controlled!)   

Today was probably the worst of things.  Zelia and Ray went for a walk, and Logan and Fitz went elsewhere to talk about girls.  It was just Eugene, Zarina, Belle, Punzie, Piper, Emma, Ariel, and I - and the kiddos, of course; and Merida, who didn't really talk much. 
(You can see the wad of blankets on the one edge there,  it's because it's been SUPER COLD the past few nights.  Ugh...)
Belle and I just talked for a good while, and Zarina hung out with Casey as long as Casey wanted. 
Everything was okay until Ariel walked over to me when Zach started whimpering - just because he was sleepy, mind. 
"He's blind, right?"  Ariel asked. 
I looked up warily at her.  "Yes, why?" 
"I was going to say...no wonder if he cries so much, since you're always holding him.  Even he wouldn't want to see your face.  But then again, since he's blind...no surprise, I guess.  Nothing perfect could--"
I jumped up.  If I wouldn't have had Zachary in my arms, I would have probably done something less-than-nice. 
"You know what, Ariel?  Don't even say it.  He's perfect just as he is.  You can insult and harass me all you want, but don't you DARE say a word about my children.  Got it?" 
She threw her head back to expose her long, pale throat.  Laughing, she shook her head.  "The only way to get to you is through your kids!" 
"Why do you have to torment her in the first place, Ariel?"  Eugene stood up, setting Audrey up with Casey and Zarina.  He put a hand on my shoulder.  "You don't have to, you know.  I know I'd really appreciate it if you'd let her and the kids be." 
She shook her head.  "You are all too sensitive." 
"And you're too INsensitive," I mumbled.  I didn't dare say it too loud. 

This went on almost all day.  She knew now that she could get a brilliant rise out of me if she said something about the kids.  I'm just glad she didn't say or do anything to the kids directly.  That's when I think I'd snap.  I won't bother her if she harasses me about how I'm stupid and not pretty, how I dress 'sloppily', how simple I am...but if she as much as touches a hair on one of the kids' heads....that means war. 

But regardless....as if Ariel wasn't enough (Punzie hasn't been as cruel, surprisingly), Flynn has taken to creating new emails and accounts simply to harass me.  Every time I block him, he emails me from a different, new account.  I'm not even going to post a word of what he's said, but here's the rundown of what he's telling me: 
-I'm an idiot
-I'm an idiot for not deleting my blog after the first time he started emailing me
-Eugene should have left me when he got the chance (when he went missing)
-I'm so bland
So on and so forth, the reason I refuse to post his messages directly on here is because of the content.  Who knew a doll could be so...so...vulgar and crude?  Yikes. 
I hate how between the two of them, they're making me start to think about how truly bland I am compared to, say, Ariel - and even Belle.  They're both pretty (despite Ariel's personality), dress well, (although Ariel's dress is fairly inappropriate) and they aren't insecure or easily upset.  I don't wish I could be like Ariel - no, not at all - but I wish I could be less like myself -- proud of who I am, pleased with how I look, and not boring.  And I'm sure the girls would even be happier if I was more interesting.  Not, like, physical appearances-wise, but...interesting.  Able to tell them amazing stories from my past, or unafraid of letting them do things like leave the table, ride horses, etc.  You know?
I haven't told Eugene about this, of course-- he has enough on his plate, and we don't really have the privacy to talk or anything.  I certainly don't want Ariel to overhear about Flynn - who knows what she'd do or say then. 
Yippee. 

The Frozen Fate...

This morning, I woke up around eight. My face was planted into bed, my arms and legs...and hair...sprawled EVERYWHERE.  When I lifted my head up, Eugene wasn't beside me.  I rolled over onto my back - or at least, I tried to.  I fell off the edge of the bed with a sound THUNK.
A few seconds later, Eugene came hurrying back behind the cutout.  "What was--oh.  Are you alright?" 
I giggled.  "Yeahhh...I fell." 
He held a hand out, and I took it, standing up and thanking him.  He was trying so hard not to smile.
"Oh, stop!"  I laughed.  "I know it's weird that I still fall out of bed, but that's me.  I'm clumsy." 
He chuckled.  "Nah...I'm just glad to have ya back." 
"Alrighty then," I teased, "not sure how you can miss having me back as your wife, but...okay."
He grinned, sitting down on the edge of the bed and pulling me down onto his lap. 
"So...what does my girl want to do today?" 
"Hmmmh....as little as possible.  I'm still tired from yesterday!  Are the girls up yet?" 
"Nope.  They're tuckered out, too, I guess," he said.  He finally let his adorable smile shine through, which told me just how much he'd missed the girls.  I leaned my head up against his shoulder, admiring that smile until he laced my hairline with kisses. 
We just talked quietly for a little while, until Jordan got up.

And thus started my first day [back] as wife and mom to this awesome guy and adorable little girls! :] 

My good mood was severely marred this afternoon when Zelia poked her head over to our side of the table.
"Did you know that the Frozen bunch was being put back in their boxes?"
"What?!"  I gasped, standing abruptly.  The older girls were taking their 4-o-clock nap, and Eugene was holding Jordan, so all I had was Pascal on my shoulder.  I rushed over to talk with my sister. 
"Yeah...Tangled Fan just did.  Look," she pointed up, and I saw Anna, Elsa, Hans, and Kristoff in their boxes on the bench.  They had blank stares on their faces, and I gasped, horrified. 
"Wh-why do they look like that?" 
"Dolls are alive when they are put in boxes in the warehouse -- Disney makes sure that they do, because it gives them extra character, and kids will want them-- but if they're put back in their box...they're no longer living.  They're not dead-dead, but they're just...like that.  Frozen in time.  When or if they're removed once more, it's like they're starting their life all over again.  Merida over there has been taken out of her box and put back in repeatedly for rearranging purposes.  It's kind of amusing to play with their heads."
I was horrified....and even more appalled by Zelia's reaction to the repeated removal of Merida. 
"That's HORRIBLE, Zelia!  How awful of you to say--"
"I was trying to joke.  Quit looking like you've seen a ghost!"  she huffed.
I shook my head slowly.  "I-I feel like I HAVE seen a ghost...they're just ghosts of their formal selves!  This is AWFUL!"  I sobbed.  "A-Anna...did they know?  Why?  Did anyone tell you why?"
"They told me this morning before she came to put them in their boxes.  Anna said that she didn't want you to know until after they were taken care of.  She told me to explain everything to you:  she and Elsa knew that one day, their joints would grow weaker and weaker until Tangled Fan would have to put them in their boxes -- that's why Merida is in hers.  It's a defect in the 2012 articulation; the leg joints are placed incorrectly, and they can't hold up as long as our legs can.  They knew it would happen someday, and it's been getting worse...it's kind of like some degenerative illness in humans.  She said that's why they wanted to go on a week-long expedition of the house, but she insisted you couldn't go.  She knew that their secret would be revealed...anyway, she went on to say that she was a fool for being so horrible to you, and mostly because of the things she'd done before you, you know..had your accident; but at the time, she was bitter with the fact that this would happen someday, and she wouldn't be able to have a family.  She said she was happy that she got to see you guys back together again yesterday; that's why everyone stayed for so long...this explains everything.  Or, it should.  Elsa said that she was sorry she couldn't say goodbye, but it was for the best, and she never liked goodbyes anyway." 
I was crying.  Everyone was solemn on that side of the table, even Punzie.  I dropped to my knees, burying my face in my hands.  "I-I...I can't believe this...they're...they're GONE!" 
Zelia sat beside me.  "Hey.  Don't cry.  They're not in pain anymore -- and they were in plenty before."
Well, thanks, sister-mine.  That makes me feel LOADS better!
I tried to compose myself, and a thought occurred to me.  "Wh-...why are Kristoff and Hans in their boxes, too?" 
"They didn't want to spend their days looking up to see the blank faces of their wives, so they elected to have the same fate as the girls."
I thought I was going to throw up.  "...Oh....did they know it would happen someday?"
"Yes...they were the only ones who did, up until this morning."
I gulped a few deep breaths, which only made me feel sicker.  "Oh..." I heard Eugene ask where I'd disappeared to, and stumbled to my feet.  "I--I need to go..." Before my sister could say anything else, I was gone.
I rushed over to the other side of the table, and ran headfirst into Eugene, who must've gotten Jordan to sleep.
"What's wrong?" he asked quietly.
I mumbled what had happened to the Frozen bunch, and he shook his head, obviously saddened by it.
We talked about it quietly for a little while, but then the girls woke up, and we put on cheery faces so as to not worry them.

Casey saw something was wrong, though.  We had a chat before bedtime, --Eugene said we always had before.
"What's wrong?  I know something is.  Are you upset about us being here so soon?" Casey asked, rolling her big green eyes up at me.
I cuddled her close.  "No, definitely not, baby girl,  It's just...still all sinking in for me.  Finding out I was married to your daddy and I was the mom to you three sweethearts was a big surprise, albeit a happy one," I said.  It WAS true...I was still processing all that, too.  
And on top of that all, I had thought of something absolutely terrifying.
Eugene had joint problems because of whatever had happened to him.
What if Tangled Fan put him in his box??  What would happen with the girls?  The mere thought terrified me.

Back to Casey, though, she gave me a relieved smile, yawning.
"Ready for bed?" I asked.
"Huh-uh..."
Said the little girl who was having a hard time keeping her eyes from crossing.  They had played ALLLLL day long, stopping only to nap at 4.
I shook my head, grinning to myself, but I held her until she fell asleep, which didn't take long.  When she had, I put her in bed with Audrey, and watched Eugene carefully spread a blanket over Jordan, who was sleeping already.
When he turned around, I gave him a small smile.  "They tuckered themselves out, didn't they?"
"They tuckered ME out, too!" he chuckled.  "They're happy to be home and have their momma again...I am, too."
He winked, but I didn't blush or giggle like I normally would.  What would I do if he was put back inside that plastic prison?

We went to bed, but I couldn't close my eyes and sleep.  Every time I shut my eyes, I saw one of their frozen faces...and that made me worry even more about Eugene.
I squirmed a bit closer to my husband, and he slid his hand up and down my forearm, half asleep.
"Can't sleep?" he asked tiredly.  I didn't want to disturb him, but it slipped out.
"I'm scared," I whispered.
Plenty awake now, he cleared his throat and stroked my hair.  "Why?  The Frozen bunch?"
"Kind of...every time I close my eyes, I see their faces.  Oh, Eugene, it was awful...a-and then it scares me because...what if the same happens to us?  What would the girls do?"
"You don't have to worry, hon...you didn't come with your original box," he reassured me.
I sat up.  "I don't care what happens to me...I'm worried about YOU," I got choked up on the last part.
"Why?"
"Y-your joints!  I don't know what we'd do...I don't know what would happen to the girls, and that scares me...and I don't know what I'd do without you..." I trailed off, knowing that if I looked up into those warm brown eyes...see that soft expression of concern on his face...I'd lose it for sure.
But he sat up and tilted my chin up to look me in the eye.  "I promise you it won't happen.  My joints are different than theirs.  Mine only hurt temporarily,  and I know how to control it.  Theirs is a factory defect.  So don't worry about me, okay, sweet girl?"
I took in a deep, shuddering breath, relieved to have been told this.  "Okay...just me being silly, as always.  How did...how did you fall, anyway?  I can't remember."
He stiffened.  "That's one thing I'm glad you forgot...I'd prefer to keep it that way..."
What?  What on earth had happened??
"What happened?  You've peaked my interest, so you HAVE to tell me, now...please?" I coaxed.
He sighed, but he gave in.  "We got into a fight with Anna and Kristoff. You were trying to defend Elsa from her sister's rudeness, and it set them both off.  Kristoff approached you, and I stepped in front of you.  He punched me and knocked me out, and from what you told me, we both fell down off of the dresser.  You managed to grab a dresser handle and tried to keep me from falling, but you couldn't, of course, and I fell and messed up my hip joints.".
I put a hand to my mouth.  "So it was my fault..I'm so--"
He shook his head.  "Don't say it...we went through this six months ago when it actually happened.  Okay?"
I sighed, pulling my knees to my chest and sneaking a glance at him.  "You've done so much for me, I mean really.  I don't know how I can ever repay you,"
He was quiet for a second before grinning, smoothing the hair from my face.  "You could...give me that pretty smile of yours that I love so much," he teased, stroking my cheek with the pad of his thumb.  I couldn't NOT grin, and he chuckled.  "C'mere."
I leaned up against him, and he wrapped me in his arms, asking if I felt better.
"I do for sure, knowing that you aren't in danger of being put in your box, but I still feel horrible for everyone that WAS.  If you had seen their faces...it was just awful."
"I'm sorry you saw it...that's like the equivalent of a human seeing a dead body.  I guess, anyway," he pulled me a little closer, and I squeezed my eyes shut tightly, wishing the images would go away.
And to think that just yesterday, I was thinking that Elsa and Kris would be starting a family soon...it's amazing how things can change in the blink of an eye.  I guess it wasn't a blink for them, but it was for the rest of us.  It made me want to cherish every moment with my girls and my husband even more.

The Renewal of Our Vows [=

The morning that we would renew our wedding vows dawned...muggy and cloudy with a chance of storms.  The window was open in the bedroom, but there was hardly any breeze going. 
Tangled Fan had planned most of this ceremony for us, which was nice...but at the same time, I was slightly terrified to see what she'd thought up. 
Everyone was up bright and early -- the ceremony...or whatever you'd call it...started at 9 AM--and I guess nobody thought about getting me up, because I woke up at eight.  EIGHT!!!   Nobody else was on the table.  The night before, Belle had told me that she would leave her dress on the other side of the table (we were having the ceremony on Eugene's side of the table.  It was closer to the window, and it just worked out well.) and so I grabbed my brush and slipped over to see if she had.  Eugene was gone, even though the table had not been prepped yet, and so I slid around to behind the cutout and hurriedly undressed.  I needed to get ready, and FAST!
I took Belle's poufy dress and promptly got to work, worming my way into it.  As I was trying to squeeze into it, I heard clomping footsteps coming towards the cutout.
Eugene. 
Oh no. 
"Don't come behind the cutout, I'm getting dressed!"  I called. 
"Okay," he called back. 
I squeezed into the dress hurriedly, and started trying to get the Velcro fastened --that's always fun.  Unfortunately, I couldn't reach to squeeze the tight bodice shut 100%. 
Ohh, great...
I grunted, sucking in a breath as I tried to shut the Velcro at the middle of my back. 
"You okay back there?" 
"Y-yeahh...well...actually...can you come back here, please?  I can't...reach the Velcro."
"Okaayy," he cleared his throat, and within a few seconds, he was behind the cutout as well.  He yanked and tugged at the bodice edges until he got them fastened together.  "There you go." 
I sighed.  "Thank you...you're awesome." 
He laughed, and I quickly tried something new with my hair--pulling it around in a braid.  It makes more sense when you see the pictures...I can't explain it.  Anyway, Eugene watched while I did so, and the second I was done, he reached to turn me around to face him.  His warm eyes flicked over me from head to toe, a small smile creeping up on his face.  He led me out from behind the cutout before allowing his grin to blossom into a toothy smile.  "You look great!" 

"Mmh...I don't really think this dress is good on me, though.  The color...it's the same as my hair, almost.  And--OH, do you know where everyone else is?  I need to help them with stuff, if there's anything to do!  What time is it?!" 
"Okay...let's see.  First off, I was instructed to keep you from doing any prep work.  I'm about to get this place ready, but that'll just take a few minutes.  And FYI, you are beautiful.  I mean, you always are,
but...anyway.  And yeah, it's the same color as your hair, but it brings out your pretty green eyes...and the freckles on your nose."  he reached to kiss the tip of said nose, and then gave me a mushy sort of smile.  "Oh, and Tangled Fan is bringing the girls in a little bit...sorry I didn't tell you till now, but I just asked her to last night.  I figured you'd be asleep, so I didn't want to wake you up." 
Well.  THAT was a bit of a surprise!
"Hmmh...I probably look awful.  But--Wait.  The girls are coming?!"  I gasped.  "But--but what if...I didn't have time to re-read the posts about them--" he put a finger to my lips and shook his head, chuckling. 
"You look great.  Looks don't matter to me, anyway...it's the fact that after this morning, you'll officially be my girl again.  And the girls understand about what happened, so it's no big problem.  If you need to ask me about something, don't hesitate, okay?  Love you." 

I almost melted at that!  He bent to steal a quick kiss..and then the door opened. 

Tangled Fan bustled in.
Eugene pulled away quickly, and I put a hand to my stomach in surprise. 
Tangled Fan held her hand out to us, and in that hand were three ADORABLE little girls. 
Casey, Audrey, and Jordan!  My heart squeezed just at the sight of them, and I could hardly contain my excitement!


 She left them with us and then gave us some alone time together before we started the ceremony in half an hour. 
The girl with green eyes -- Casey -- just stared at me, wide-eyed, until I knelt in front of her, holding my arms out.  I could remember that she was shy, so I wanted to give her space if she needed it. 
She didn't need it.

The poor girl didn't waste any time throwing herself into my arms, and she buried her face in my neck.  I cuddled her close, standing up to see Audrey and Jordan.  Audrey was clinging to Eugene, but when I offered my other arm to her, she promptly reached over to get a hug from me.  Jordan was fussy, but quickly calmed down when Eugene started humming some sweet little song.  Nobody said anything at first, we just held the girls tight.  Casey was the first to speak up. 
"I love you...I missed you so much, Mommy," she looked up with those big green eyes, and my heart squeezed.  I told her I loved her, too...and Audrey as well...and I wasn't lying.  In the few seconds that I had met them -- well...seen them again, I guess--I fell in love with the three of them.  They were so sweet, and adorable, and...wow.  When Audrey agreed with Casey, the tears I had fought when Casey told me came out full force.
When Audrey came over to hug me again, Eugene shifted Jordan to his other arm so he could rub my back, noticing that I was on the verge of having a good cry.  Crying from happiness, mind you.
Once I had gained composure, I sat down with the three of them by myself as Eugene prepped the place for the ceremony.  The two older girls just could hardly contain their excitement, and I guess it was contagious, because Jordan started doing this adorable little belly laugh that made all of us start laughing.  It was an amazing way to calm down before the ceremony, but by the time 9 o' clock rolled around, I didn't want to leave the girls long enough to actually participate in the renewal of our vows!  xD 

Eugene had left the boxes tilted over, so the attendants could sit down. EVERYONE came, so every bit of the sitting space was used.  Even Punzie came, saying she wanted to make sure I was gone for SURE this time.  Belle and Zelia practically had to pry the girls away from me, but once they had, they held them there.  Kristoff was performing the ceremony, and he looked terrified.

I snagged Belle and thanked her for letting me use her dress, adding that she looked beautiful in the pink gown she'd donned.  She thanked me, saying that she liked it -- despite the fact that the bodice was much too loose in some spots...and then she waved me off, telling me to go as she gestured towards my husband.  I  hadn't realized that the guys were waiting, so I sprinted (and almost tripped) to go stand with Eugene.   
As soon as I did, the piano part of this beautiful little song came on.  I looked up in surprise, and Tangled Fan was beside her laptop.  That was when the tears sprang into my eyes...this was just so perfect.
The second I looked at Eugene, he flashed that special grin of his and took my hands in his.  Our eyes met, and I don't think either of us looked away for the majority of the whole entire thing. 
Kristoff mumbled the explanation of why we were here today, and I could tell he was soo embarrassed to be in front of people :D  I'm thankful he did it, though.
We didn't tie the ribbon, like you do when you get married...we just exchanged vows.
My guy went first.  He gave me an embarrassed little grin, shifting from foot to foot a couple of times.  "R-Rapunzel..."
"Eugene..." I mimicked, trying to get him to feel less shy, and he burst out laughing. 
Once he stopped, he smiled and squeezed my hands, silently thanking me.  "Hmm...well...I don't really know what to say.  There's so much I want to tell you, but I can't really put everything into words...you know how I am with words.  Well, let's just say...I love you.  I love you to the moon and back, and I can't even tell you how excited I am to have you back as my wife.  It was a long couple of months, and I, um...a couple of times, I thought I was going to lose you.  Spent more than a few nights not sleeping over that...and a couple more when I just couldn't stop thinking about you.  You drive me crazy, girl...seriously.  I promise I'll love you until the last day of my plastic life.  And if I ever argue with you about something--"
"Slap him in the face!  Or better yet, lemme at him!"  Zelia piped up, and I looked over to see she was crying.  I laughed when I saw Eugene's mock-terrified face. That's about when everyone else in the place lost it laughing.
"Please don't.  Keep me away from her, please!  YOU can slap my face all you want, but don't let her near me," he pretended to whimper fearfully, and at that point, I was laughing so hard I couldn't breathe.  It was quite the change, because I'd been crying over his sweet little speech up until that point.  I waited until I regained my composure, and then I dove into my little speech--which was nothing compared to his. I had had this great little speech planned, but in the midst of all this...I forgot it. 
"Well...gosh, I...I don't know what to say, either.  I planned this speech all out, and standing here...I just--I forgot it.  I blame it on you, because I got sidetracked by you."  he chuckled, and I continued.  "Um...I'm just eternally thankful I met you.  I'm thankful I met you when I met you the first time, and I'm glad you stuck with me, even after I forgot everything.  I'm sooo thankful for you.  You've helped me through so many things, and you're my very best friend.  I care about you so, so much, and I don't think I'll ever stop.  And I can't wait to start--" I froze as I messed that up.  I wasn't STARTING my life with him....I was resuming it.  I gave him a slightly horrified look, and he gave my hands a squeeze of reassurance before whispering 'it's okay'.  "I can't wait to CONTINUE, rather, my life with you.  You and those adorable girls over there...I'm so thankful for all of you." I looked over towards the girls, and Audrey and Casey grinned.  "And...that's about it, I guess?  And yes.  I will take you up on that offer to swat you if you're arguing with me.  But I doubt I'll have many chances to do so...at least, I hope not." 
He laughed, and Kristoff finished up the ceremony.  When Kris said that we could kiss, moving from his spot beside us, Eugene glanced over towards the girls, a teasing look on his face.
"You know, Rapunzel...we always had this rule that we could never kiss in front of the girls...I guess the renewal of our vows is cancelled, then--"
Audrey took the bait, while Casey seemed to know what was up.  She jumped up out of Zelia's lap and gave her daddy a horrified look.  "No, it ISN'T!  You kiss Momma, right now...I can't wait one more minute to have my mommy back!"
We all laughed at her prompt and demanding response, and while I was laughing, Eugene gave me an impish grin.

  "Well, we can't let the little lady wait, now can we...?"  before suddenly tipping me backwards and kissing me.  It only lasted a second because we were both laughing, and when he tipped me upright again, I gave him a teasing swat on the arm.  We turned around, and before we could even move a step, the two oldest girls threw themselves at us :D
Tangled Fan had a whole party planned, apparently.
As soon as that little song had finished its' final round, she turned on some other music and snagged her camera.  Oh boy.
"I thought you guys could have a little party.  Music, dancing, talking...whatever you please.  I'll stay outta the way, but I do want to get some pictures," she told us, and I nodded.

And thus, the party started.  It was just a flurry of craziness and fun.  We talked with everyone, and between the two of us, we juggled the three girls until the two oldest had had enough and wanted down to play some. 
I was surprised to see Zelia talking to Anna....and there was no bloodshed or yelling! 

And I'm pretty sure that kids are in the future of Elsa and Kristoff...since they stood watching the girls play for a good while.  When Jordan fell asleep, Eugene finally convinced me to let her sleep on the floor behind the cutout...which was no easy task.  I wanted to hold her forever =D 
Speaking of Eugene...oh, goodness.  He stuck by my side like GLUE the whole entire time, and the only time he left me was to go play with the girls. 
We all decided to dance for awhile -- we tried to refrain from too many slow or couple dances, so everyone could dance.  I've never seen my sister dance....let's just say that she did not have a great teacher, and I know for sure now that she is my sister.  I think once, she tripped and about knocked Elsa down xD
 For one of the couples' dances, Ray grabbed my sister and danced with her.  I'm pretty sure she was shocked...as were the rest of us. 
As soon as I saw what was happening, I raced over to Eugene (I had been standing by myself with Jordan, while he talked with Casey and Audrey after they called him over for something) and tapped his shoulder.  He glanced away from the girls.  "What?"

"Zelia.  Ray.  Look!"  I hissed, trying to gesture vaguely.  Kristoff noticed, too, and I could see his eyes widen from here!
Eugene choked, which he quickly attempted to cover up by coughing.  "Wow.  Um...didn't see that coming."  We stared at the both of them, and even saw Zelia smile up at him. 
WHOA.
When the song ended, she left his arms and he gave a little bow...and then she turned away.  Towards us. 
CRUMBS!
I quickly averted my attention back to Jordan, but poor Eugene was frozen in surprise...his mouth was hanging open.  I elbowed him, and he snapped his mouth shut hard enough to clack his teeth together, hard.  He grimaced, cleared his throat, and quickly turned away, back to the girls.   
A good while after that, Jordan went to sleep again, so I took her back behind the cutout to sleep. 
I was just starting to feel a little overwhelmed with all of the noise and everything, and it was a bit loud,  (I have no idea how Jordan slept!) so when I took her back, I leaned up against the cardboard, watching her sleep. 
After a few minutes, Eugene crept back, grinning. 
"She asleep?"
"Mmhmm," I nodded, and he reached to slip his arms around my waist. 
"So, are you enjoying yourself?  You looked kinda overwhelmed." he whispered. 
"Yeah, I'm having fun...it's just that all the dolls and the chatter and everything started getting to me.  I'm okay...plus, I wanted to check up on little Miss Cutie," I gave him a reassuring smile, and he gave me a quick hug. 
"Okay, m'lady.  Just wanted to make sure," he gave me that special grin of his before bending to give me a quick, gentle kiss.
As we were kissing, we both heard a little giggle.  I quickly pulled away from him to see...none other than Casey and Audrey, peeking in at us.  And then ZELIA poked her head out! 
The trio gasped and ducked back away from the cutout, and Eugene looked at me, an impish gleam coming into his eyes.
"I say we get them."  he tried to keep a straight face, but the excitement and happiness in his eyes were clear. 
"Mmmhmmm," I giggled as he grabbed my hand and pulled me out from behind the cutout, where we promptly chased down the girls and engaged in tickling the both of them until they laughed so hard no sound came out.  I was laughing fairly hard as well :D  When that was taken care of, Eugene risked sneaking up behind Zelia to tickle her sides, and I'm pretty sure he got a few good smacks on the hands...no, I'm POSITIVE he did!  :D
About an hour after that, Anna wandered up to me, rubbing her arm awkwardly. 
"Um...can I talk to you for a-a minute?  Alone?" 
I nodded, wondering what on earth she was going to tell me.  Eugene nodded and quickly left, but he kept an eye on us.
"I'm sorry for being such a jerk.  I was so senseless, and...I'm sorry for everything I've put you and your family through; it won't happen again."  When she said it wouldn't happen again, a strange expression crossed her face.
"It's fine -- I haven't been mad at you," I reassured her with a smile.   I was a little on edge--c'mon, who wouldn't be? --but I kept a smile on my face.  "Thank you for coming today!"
She nodded.  "Thanks for having us."  we stood awkwardly, looking around, but then she reached to give me a quick hug...and just like that, she left. 

After that, Tangled Fan gathered everyone up to take some pictures. Seems  like Aunty Z missed the girls quite a bit as well...the girls got a picture (I don't have it, though, unfortunately...) with Zelia, and she wouldn't let me have Jordan back afterwards! She literally gave me a shove and told me to 'enjoy the day while she enjoyed her adorable niece'.  :P

Yup.  My wonderful sis pulled a 'bunny ears' on me...and I didn't notice until Tangled Fan showed this one to me. 

And of course, I LOVE how this turned out (:

When the crowd finally dispersed to the other side of the table, we persuaded Tangled Fan to leave the girls here.  It took a little bit of convincing, because she thought I would want a day or two to settle back into my role as wife before I resumed my role as mother, but she did give in.  (:
It was about 11:30 PM, and I quite frankly have no clue how everyone talked and danced and just hung out for so long...yikes.  I know one thing was for sure...I was beyond exhausted.  I helped to put the girls to bed, and settled down on the wicker chair to get Jordan to fall asleep after that. 
When she was asleep--which didn't take more than a couple of minutes -- Eugene came over and stood in front of us. 
"Hmm....I missed that sight.  She asleep?" 
"Mmhmm," I nodded, kissing the top of her head before I allowed him to take her.  I wandered back behind the cutout to change into my nightie and brush my hair, and Eugene made sure Jordan was going to stay asleep in her bed while I did that.

  When I was making our own bed--which had been set upright for the day--, Eugene asked if I was decent.  I said I was, and within a few seconds, I felt him slide his arms around my waist from behind. 
I tossed the blanket back on the bed before I turned to look at him.  "What?"
"Love ya," he winked before kissing the tip of my nose.
I grinned before collapsing dramatically against him.  "I didn't realize how tiring a party could possibly be.."
He laughed.  "Yeah...I didn't think they'd stick around that long.  I guess they enjoyed themselves,"
I nodded, pulling away from his arms so we could go to bed.  I don't think I've ever been so happy to go to bed in my life...I was so tired!  I started to pull the covers up and smooth them over the both of us, but then I noticed him staring at me in an odd way.  "What? Did I...did I do something--"
"No-no-no-no, no...you're fine.  It's just that you used to do that before, too," he gave me a reassuring smile, and I pressed my edge of the blanket up against my chest, thinking about that.
"Really?  I just...I just wish I could remember everything!"  I stared down at the blanket, trying to concentrate to see if I could remember something more.  Nah...it just made me yawn. 
"Hey...c'mere," he broke my thoughts,  so I let myself tip over backwards.  He put both his arms around me and pulled me as snug to him as possible, sighing contentedly. 
"You have no idea how happy I am to have you back, sweet girl of..."
I missed the rest of what he said, because I fell asleep.

Curiosity Killed the Cat

~Rapunzel
This is going to be my last time posting on here.  In HIS favor, I'll write everything down about the whole day...apologies if I get a bit cynical, but when you get to the end, you will understand why.  I don't even know why I'm typing this! 

Yesterday, EVERYONE else started off for a week-long trip exploring the house.  Of course, I wasn't invited, because Anna and Punzie were going along.  Big surprise there, right? 
So today, Eugene was gone for most of the day.  To keep myself busy, I sung and danced by myself.  I had a question for him about the blog, so I just couldn't WAIT for him to get back.

When he did, I promptly hurried over to his side of the table. 
"Hey!"  I said excitedly.  Ahh, gotta love the feeling of excitement you get when you see someone you love, right? 
"Hey, yourself," he gave me that smile of his -- the one that made my stomach erupt in butterflies.  Then, he pulled a small stem of slightly wilted flowers from behind his back.  "Tangled Fan got a bunch of little flowers so I could give them to you and the girls.  They're, ah...kinda wilted up, but-"

I was so excited.  I was soo, so happy.  "Oh my gosh, Eugene!  Thank you so much!"  

With a chuckle, he handed them to me.  I wasted no time, going ahead to bury my face in them and take a deep whiff.  I'd never smelled flowers before!  I'd never been given flowers before, either.  

"Mmm...they smell soo sweet!  Thank you so, so much!"  I looked up at him and grinned, and he laughed. 
"You have some yellow gunk on your nose," he told me before he dabbed it off himself.  After he wiped his fingers on his pants, he pulled me close and gave me a quick kiss on the forehead. 

"So, how was your day?"  he asked.  

I moved away so I could set the flowers down in a safe place, and then I slid back into his arms.  For the moment being, I felt so at home and so comfortable in his arms... ugh. 
"Well, everyone else left last night for this week-long expedition to explore the house, and of course, I had to stay behind...Punzie and Anna, y'know?  So, I just sang and danced by myself today.  It was pretty fun, actually...nobody pushing me around or saying mean things.  OH, I have a question for you!  Someone commented on your last blog post, but they directed it towards me...I saw the preview of it, but I didn't go see the whole thing, because I didn't want to...you know...look at your post, because you said not to." 
He nodded.  "You can stick around here as much as you like, then, if you're all by yourself over there.  I mean, you always CAN, but...you know.  Anyway, uh...yeah, you can answer it.  Noo problem.  It's not like I'm hiding bad secrets there or anything, so I really...I just...um..am self-conscious of my writing."  [Hmmph.  Yeahh...right.]
"Aw, I'm sure your writing is good!" I told him. 

 We talked for a little while, but then I left for my side (where I had left Tangled Fan's tablet) to go check on that comment before I forgot. 

Before I left, I made sure to snag the flowers -- of course.  He gave me the usual hug, kiss on the cheek, and 'I love you, see you later', and I did the same.  

I was on cloud 9, as I normally was after I'd had a visit with him, when I went to check the comment.  

It was on the last post on the blog (Sorry about that, nothing really interesting has been going on, but I had been visiting with him everyday.  Y'know...falling in love...) when I caught sight of something on the page. 
Something about him not wanting to let me meet the orphan girls because he couldn't make them 'pretend to not know their mother'.  

Mother?  

Since I'm obviously not married to him, and I had never met the girls, I  decided to do a little digging.  

I flipped through a couple of the most popular posts.

Apparently, he has a thing for clumsy 2010 Rapunzels. 
He has a wife.  

I was too mad to cry.  Didn't he think I had gone through enough already?!  Why, why, WHY??!!  UGH! 

I grabbed the tablet, the flowers, and Pascal, and stormed over to his side of the table, where he was sitting. 
He greeted me with a surprised smile as he strode over to me. 

"Y-you...you could've told me." I gave him a firm shove right off the bat, knocking him right back away from me. 
"What?" He gave me a slightly terrified and confused look.
"THIS.  What the heck is all this?!"  I shoved the tablet at him and flicked through several pictures he, or his WIFE, rather, had on "our" blog. 
He stammered around terribly for a few minutes, and I could feel my eyes watering as I waited for a response.  My stomach was twisted in knots, and I wanted to be furious at him, but suddenly, all I could feel was sorrow.  For so long...so long...he had led me to believe he loved me, and it turns out it was unrequited affection once more.  Why?  When he just answered me with an 'it's complicated...sit down for a minute', I just gave up.  I should've known better to have hoped he truly cared for me!  I'd just gotten played...just like last time.  But wait...I still wanted answers.
"Well, where's she at...that girl?  It looks like you have a THING for the 2010 model.  And what about--what about all your kids?  Nice to know you were visiting your CHILDREN, not orphans like you told me you were."  I glared, oozing sarcasm.  "I ought to warn your WIFE about what's been going on!  She should at least have fair warning to know something like this could happen again!  And why hasn't she been posting?  Or HAS she, and I just didn't notice because of your stupid little 'no reading' rule?"  
"She's...well...the kids were taken away.  And she is standing right in front of me."  he gave me a serious look.
Was the doll delusional?
"What, then...are you, like...are you mad?!"  I barked.
"No, I'm not mad--"
"Mad as in crazy in the head."   Stupid...! 
"No.  I'm not that, either.  I --"
"I don't want to hear any more excuses!"  I put my hand up, hauling the tablet along with me as I turned to leave.  "I'm done.  I'm sick of MEN!"  I gave the tablet a firm shove to the other side of the table.

"Wait...you don't understand.  Let me explain-"  he succeeded in grabbing my arm.
"Did you not just hear me?" I was mad at myself for the tears that were spilling down my cheeks.  "Let me go!" 
"Please...just listen for..f-for five minutes, Rapunzel--"
"NO!  Let me go, you sick, twisted...freak!  I can't believe you....!"  I cried.   I managed to yank away from him, and I almost fell down.  I managed to stay on my feet, though, and I quickly stumbled back on the other side of the table.  My side.  I'd never cross to the other side of that table again.  I was finished.  I was finished with relationships, and liars, and men who used you and made you think they loved you, and...I'm done with LOVE.  Finished.
 Why must I be so naive....?
I went to my corner, where I'd left Pascal, and sat down.  Nobody was there, of course. Part of me was glad nobody was there to see me like this, but part of me wanted Zelia or Belle.  But they might not even care...Why WOULD anyone care, anyway?  It's ME.  I'm stupid, and I'm worthless, and...why can't I be smart for once??
I can honestly say that this is worse, though.  Looking back, I should have seen it coming with Flynn.  But Eugene had been so sweet with me, and had told me nearly every day that he loved me.  Why??  Didn't he think I had been through enough the first time??!  And yet, my stupid heart kept squeezing every time I thought about him.  Why did it?  Some small voice kept telling me that he hadn't used me, and I wished it would shut up!  I was too shocked to even cry, but if I COULD cry, I would probably feel better.  I felt like I was going to throw up.

Our Memorial Day

Eugene

Happy Memorial Day, everyone!  We might be dolls, but we still make sure to dedicate today to all the soldiers that fought to keep the place we live in safe.  Are any of you guys doing anything for Memorial Day? 
Zelia and I convinced Tangled Fan to let us take the girls outside for the first time...and she actually let us!  She made sure we waited until the backyard was cleaned up and mowed (they're having a picnic or something later, I guess)...and then she let us take them out.  She limited us to the ramp and the small strip of grass by the ramp, but that's plennnty of space for us dolls --it's humongous for the kids!  Zelia and I took turns staying in the shade with Jordan to keep her safe from the sun, and when one was watching her, the other was playing with and keeping track of rambunctious little Audrey and Casey.
When I told the girls we were going outside, they were just bouncing off the walls. 
"Really?!"  Casey gasped.
"You mean...you mean for real?"  Audrey overlapped her sister before they both started squealing and running in impatient circles around us.  That sent Jordan crying, so I asked them to calm down until they were set loose outside, and they obliged...somewhat. 

Buddy, they had a BLAST.  They were so happy to get out of that old box Tangled Fan has them in, poor things.  They ran...and ran...and ran...and tripped and kept running...and jumped, screamed, giggled, and played for a good solid hour, playing anything from tag-you're-it to hide and seek, plus a few little games they've invented themselves. 
  I think we were all exhausted by the time Tangled Fan came back out to get us.  Jordan was sleeping, and the other two were so tired that they went to sleep as soon as they got back to their box.  After we exchanged our normal 'love you, see you again really soon's, Tangled Fan took Zelia and I back.  I was reluctant to let them go, as was usual, but we headed back to the bedroom anyway. 

As we walked, we talked. 
"So...how are things moving along with you and Rapunzel?"  Zelia asked me.  "She seems pretty fascinated by you at this point." 
I grinned.  "I'm hoping that it won't be too much longer, but you never know.  I want to make sure not to go too fast for her,"
"Yeah.  You don't want to lose her now," Zelia groaned.  "If you would, I think I would slap you.  Repeatedly." 
"No doubt in my mind.  I want to tell her about everything, but I just can't think of the right time to tell her.  I don't want to freak her out, and I don't know if she trusts me enough yet."  I added. 
"Mmhm.  You should wait for a little while, just don't wait too long,"
We talked a little bit more about her, and Ray and Belle as well, until we got to their side of the table.  I followed Zelia up, and saw Rapunzel was sitting in her corner....alone...with Pascal.  Belle, Elsa, Anna, Emma, and Piper were gone, leaving her with Ray, Kristoff, Hans, and Punzie. 
Well, I can see where this is going...."Hey, you," I knelt in front of her, putting a hand on her shoulder.  She looked up sharply, and I was greeted with a relieved smile. 
"Hey, yourself," she told me. 
"Why is such a pretty girl such as yourself sitting back here?"  I asked, and she blushed, even though her face clouded with that look of rejection. 
"Everyone else went for a walk, and Anna and Emma didn't want me to go, so I stayed here.  Ray tried to strike up a conversation with me, and then got frustrated with me because I started to stammer around, so I just went back here," she shrugged. 
"Hmm...I'm sorry, sweetheart.  Do you want to go for a walk or something?"  I suggested.  I was really tired, yeah, but if my girl wanted to do something, I was all for it. 
Her whole face lit up.  "Oh!  Yeah, of course!!"
But after she said so, her smile faltered and her gaze dropped down to her lap.  "O-oh...oh geez.  I haven't even changed out of my nightie yet--oh my gosh, I'm so sorry-"
"It's fine," I laughed.  I hadn't even noticed that, to be honest. 
"I guess...if you want to let me change and get my hair brushed out, I'll meet you under the table?" 
"M'kay...sounds good," I chuckled, standing up. 

I waited for her under the table...and waited...and waited. I was just starting to wonder if she had forgotten already, but then she came sliding down the table leg.  She was wearing her normal purple dress and had Pascal on her shoulder, but her hair was braided like the movie Rapunzel's.  She gave me a red-faced smile as she came over.  I still don't know why my heart starts pounding and I feel kind of dizzy every time I see her, I mean...it's been eight months since I met her! 
I strode over and pulled her into a quick hug, grinning.  "Wow...you look amazing..I mean, you always do, but-"
She giggled, the tips of her ears turning red.  "I don't think so, but thank you.  Zelia said you guys went to see the girls today...how were they today?" 
As we walked, I narrated the hour outside with the girls, and she gave me a huge smile. 
"Aw...I bet they really enjoyed it!  They just seem like they're so sweet," she told me.  I saw a glimmer--just a split-second glimmer--of the adoring expression in her eyes that she used to have when she'd hold one of the girls.  I had to smile when I realized that. 
"They are," I nodded, "that they are." 
"Someday, you'll have to introduce them to me," she suggested once more. 
Ooh no.  Don't panic, don't--I really don't want to do this.  I can't expect the girls to act like they don't know their own mother, that's way too much for them. "Maybe we can adopt them, someday," I winked, and her eyebrows shot up in surprise. 
"Hmm..."
"What?"  I started to panic on the inside.That probably wasn't what she had wanted to hear...?
"I was just thinking about how unlikely that is, but how much fun it would be," she ducked her head in embarrassment. 
"Who says it's unlikely?"  I reached to tickle her side, and she jumped back, laughing.  She almost tripped, but I snagged her arm and kept her upright. 
"Well, you're so perfect, and I'm so...not," she said, even though she was still grinning. 
"Me?  Perfect?  Pfft.  And no, you're not a cookie-cutter doll, but that's what makes you great!"  I told her, threatening to tickle her again. 
"Stop!  Don't you dare tickle me," she grabbed my hands.  "And...once more, thanks, but I don't think so." 
"Remember what Belle told you," I kissed her cheek.  "And I won't tickle you more, but if you degrade yourself again, I might just have to..."
She rolled her eyes.  "You're terrible....I love you." 
"Talk about a contradiction...love you, too, though," I teased. 
After that, we just walked and talked for awhile; eventually retiring to the window to sit and read for the afternoon.

Ray's Issues and A Continuation to Yesterday's Post

So...to continue last night's post from Eugene (you'll want to check it out if you haven't seen it already, or this post won't make ANY sense, I'm sure xD)....
We just sat and talked for awhile, all avoiding any talk of Ray or the incident.  Eventually, though, Zelia fell asleep..and then Belle.  Eugene and I were the only ones up -- even Pascal was asleep on my lap. 
"So...should I carry them back or should we go get their blankets?"  Eugene whispered. 
"Probably get their blankets and leave them here," I recommended.  "If Zelia woke up when you were carrying her, she'd likely punch your lights out."
"Probably," Eugene said without a moment's hesitation.  I giggled, and then we headed silently over to the other side of the table.  It was dark, and we could hardly see, but we managed to find the blankets. 
I tripped over someone's foot --not sure who--and Eugene, who was right beside me, grabbed my arm and kept me upright.  Whew.  When we got back over to Eugene's side of the table, I tossed a blanket over Zelia, and Eugene slid Belle to lay on the floor --since she was propped up against the cutout--before doing the same to her. 
When that was done, he turned around and gave me a smile, slipping my blanket around my shoulders and using it to pull me into a hug. 
"If you're sleepy, you can go back over there...?" 
I sighed.  To be honest, I was kinda scared to go back over there.  I know to you humans, that wasn't that big of an event, but to dolls....it's big.  Since we can't kill or dismember each other, any physical contact that ends up hurting someone on purpose is a big deal.  Although...I don't know.  Zelia might be able to dismember someone if she got mad enough, but...regardless.  xD 
"I don't know.  Can I stay here for a bit?  If you're tired...no, I'll j-just go back," I realized I was being kind of selfish. 
"You're scared, aren't you?  I can't blame you.  You can stay here, it's fine," he told me.  He kissed my hair, and then sat down.  I sat beside, and went to lean my head up against his shoulder. My neck soon reminded me that it wasn't a good idea, and I moved. 
"What?  Is your neck still sore?"  he asked, and I could hear the concern in his voice. 
"Yeahh..." I groaned quietly. 
"And what about your jaw?  Your leg?" 
"My jaw's okay, and my leg's a little stiff.  I'll be fine," I said. 
He put an arm around me.  "I'm sorry...I-I froze up when he grabbed you the first time...I should've been able to just jump into actio--"
My heart squeezed as I realized how upset he seriously was over this.  "It's okay, Eugene...it's no big deal!  You act like I...I fell off of something really high, rather than just have my neck yanked around by a rude jerk and fall a short distance and hurt my leg."
He fell silent for a few minutes, and I worried that I'd insulted him or something. 
"I didn't...upset you, did I?  I mean..I appreciate your concern, but I just don't want you to be so worried about me,"
"You didn't upset me...I just, um, tend to overreact if someone gets hurt....'specially if they just happen to be my best gal," I heard the teasing tone in his voice, and smiled, my face getting hot. 
We talked quietly for a few more minutes, but then I guess I must've fallen asleep. 

The next morning, I woke up feeling like someone was watching me.  When I opened my eyes, I saw Eugene peering around the cutout, watching me. 
I shot upright.  "Wh...where...?" I couldn't form a logical sentence, so I just flubbed my lips uselessly and stared a hole through Eugene.
He chuckled.  "When you fell asleep last night, I thought maybe it would be more comfortable on your leg and neck if you slept on the bed back here.  Pascal and I took the wicker chair.  How do you feel?" 
Aw.  I hadn't meant to kick him out of his own bed, but I suppose I was asleep and hadn't had a say in the matter. 
"Oh...well...thanks, I mean..I'm sorry, you could've let me on the floor and I woulda been fine..your hip joints won't get messed up, will they?" 
I patted the bed beside me, scooting over a bit and smiling at him 
He chuckled, accepting my silent offer, and sat beside me.  "My joints are fine.  But you never answered me about YOUR joints!" 

I laughed quietly.  "My leg feels a lot better."

                                                                           

"And...your neck?"  he asked, touching my cheek with an incredible amount of tenderness.  Much nicer than Ray's brutal jerking around from yesterday.  I leaned into his touch and smiled.  "I'm fine, I promise.  See?  I moved my neck...no problems."  
"I'm glad.  So...today...what are you planning on doing?" 
"I don't know," I sighed, turning away to look down in my lap.  "It's so dumb of me to be so scared to go back and face him.  It's stupid, and it's really, really cowardly." 
"No, it's not!  I told Tangled Fan that I wanted to go see Jordan, Casey, and Audrey today, so...either you can stay here, or go over to your side of the table.  We could talk when I come back, though?"  he offered. 
I bit my lip.  I knew I'd need to face him sooner or later, so I may as well get it over with.  "Okay.  Might as well just do it and get it over with,"
"I'll go with you when you go to do so," he told me.
"Okay...stinky old boyfriend of mine," I teased, referring to what Zelia had called him yesterday evening, elbowing him.
"Alright, stinky old girlfriend of mine," he threw back, giving me a gentle shove in return.  I giggled, shoving him back, and then he reached to tickle me.
"Hey!  Stop it!"  I laughed, grabbing his hand and making him stop.
He laughed, pulling away so he could slip an arm round my shoulders.  "Anything to make you laugh, darling."
I wrinkled my nose and giggled.  "Darling?  It sounds like you should have a British accent when you say that."
"Okeeh-dokahy, dahling," he made a terrible attempt at a British accent, and I laughed again.
"You're terrible...." I remembered that there were supposed to be storms last night. "Hey, did it storm overnight?"
"Nope...I asked Tangled Fan and it went right around us," he said.  "So...you ready to get up and going?  I think Zelia's  still asleep, but Belle is up.  If I didn't value my life, I would do something to pick on Zelia to wake her up...but I value my life."
I laughed.  "Yeah...we'd better get going. And yes, leave her alone unless you wish to die.  And I don't know about you, but I'd like for you to stay around for a bit."
He chuckled.  "Okay, I won't.  C'mon," he stood up and offered me his hand, which I took.  We headed out from behind the cutout, and since Zelia was up -and Belle was busying herself by playing with Pascal--we headed to the other side.
When we got there, the Frozen gang was gone already.  Zelia headed to go discuss something with Zelia and Emma, and Belle hung in the background, watching.
As soon as Ray saw me, he stood.  I tried not to be scared.  I don't know how the sight of him could scare me, but it did.  He strode over to both of us, and I immediately backed up a step. I didn't mean to, but I did.  Eugene put a reassuring hand on my back.
"Rapunzel...I apologize for yesterday.  Please, sit," he sat and offered the place next to him on the box, but I quickly refused.
He didn't even look at me the whole time he spoke.  I didn't know how to feel about that, but regardless.

"I apologize.  I should never have let my temper flare in the way that it did.  It was inexcusable, but I do hope you accept my deepest regrets for it ever happening.  I try to control my temper, but...it doesn't work sometimes.  I truly thought you were an attention-seeker, and I cannot stand attention-seekers, and your behavior simply infuriated me.  But I now understand that you are simply clumsy, and I am sorry."

His eyebrows furrowed, and he went silent for a moment, but then he continued.  "All Beast dolls are given either a temperment and personality similar to Prince Adam's, or a personality and temper similar to Beast's.  I was unfortunate enough to recieve a Beast personality, and I cannot control my temper at times."
Even though I was shaking, I nodded and tried to smile.  I felt terrible for being so scared, since everyone probably feared him, but I told him that I accepted his apology and thanked him for his explanation.  Then, Tangled Fan came in and took Eugene, so I was left on my own.

When he left the box, I went to sit on it with Pascal, and I played with him for awhile.  I was once more invisible, and nobody else was bothering with me, so all I had to do was play with Pascal --not a bad deal, I suppose!
Until Ray came back over to me.
"I-I'll move," I quickly offered, and he shook his head.
"Please, stop looking so terrified of me."

How can I, when in doll terms, you practically ASSAULTED me yesterday??!
"No, seriously, I'm fine moving-"
He grabbed my shoulder.  How could everything about him be so sharp, rough, and terrifying?!  "Don't!  All I did was ask a simple request of you, and you act as though I threatened you.  I thought you might understand, but I see that you cannot.  You're like.."
"Raymond, if all this is just a-about  seat...or..or a facial expression, seriously, I'll just go-"
He gave me an incredibly frustrated look, and that's when Belle raced over, whispered something to him, and then he left, giving us both a cross look.

She sat down beside me.  "I am terribly sorry...he is taking the change so roughly.  He gets upset if he knows anyone around is scared of him, but it's not like you are overreacting.  He can be quite terrifying,"   she played with her skirt as she spoke.
"I understand.  Thank you for breaking that up...you're really kind."  I gave her a small smile, and she nodded.
"Thank you for being a good friend to me," Belle said.
I laughed.  "I've hardly done anything for you...and you're saving my sorry self right and left!"
"Yes, but I view you as a good friend, also," she nodded, so sure of herself.
"Wow..well...why don't we go do something soon?  I could show you around the room; there's a lot of neat little places that we could explore," I offered, feeling sort of awkward.  I didn't know how to react to anyone saying that I was their FRIEND!
"That would be wonderful!"  Belle exclaimed, ever-so-elegantly.
We talked for awhile, but then she went to go talk with some of the others.  I was once more all alone, except for Pascal, and Ray kept looking at me; watching me...staring at me.  It just really creeped me out..!

So when Tangled Fan brought Eugene back around four, I was about to lose my mind if Ray didn't stop watching me.  As soon as Tangled Fan left, I ran over to his side of the table and grabbed him into an excited hug.

"Hey, sweet girl...I mean, I guess I missed you today too, but..wow.  I'll take it, though," he teased me before he put his arms around me.  "How did your day go?"
"It was fine..I could hardly stand the tension anymore, though.  He just stared at me, like the whole day.   It was really freaking me out!"
"Hmm...I'm sorry.  Why don't we go chat on the window for awhile?"  he kissed the top of my head, and I grinned.
"Is that even a question?  Sure!"
...And then I realized Pascal wasn't with me.
I quickly ducked around the divider, and saw that Belle was playing with him.  When she saw me, she smiled and said she would keep an eye on Pascal, so then I thanked her and then went to go spend the afternoon with Eugene, talking about anything and everything, and Jordan, Casey, and Audrey.  =]

Today's events....

Today, we went for a walk, as previously stated in the post from yesterday.  
Promptly at 10AM this morning, Rapunzel nervously peeked around the divider.  I was headed in the same direction, and we almost collided.  She jumped away, but a second later, she came over to my side of the table, giggling. 
"That was close...sorry!"  she laughed, putting a hand over her mouth.
I grinned and allowed my eyes to flick over her.  "That's fine," I stopped short of telling her that she looked beautiful today.  When I looked her directly in the eyes, though, I realized she looked extremely tired.  "What's wrong?  You look like you didn't get much sleep." 
She sighed.  "Nothing.   Just...thinking about unimportant things that I really shouldn't lose sleep over." 
AKA:  Flynn.
"If you're not feeling up to--"  I started, but she broke me off. 
"No, I'm up to it!  I'm actually kind of excited," she said, blushing. 
"Well, you don't have to get all red-faced about being excited...I am, too."  I chuckled, and she gave me a wide smile before we left the table.


We walked in silence for awhile, but then I spoke up.  "So..ah...how've you been settling in?" 
"I guess I've been settling in okay.  Sometimes, I really don't fit in over there, but oh well.  I'm sure that will come in time...Punzie's just such a jerk!  Anna's kind of...I dunno.  I don't know why, but she avoids me like nobody's business.  But then again, she has Hans, so maybe that's all the friendship or socialization she needs.  Elsa's pretty nice, though.  And of course, there's always Zelia, but she avoids me when I need someone to talk to the most.  Emma and Piper just kind of stay away from me, too...they're kind of buddies with Punzie, so I could see why.  And Kristoff seems really, really shy, so he just keeps to himself or talks to Elsa.  Um...well..I guess I kinda started a rant there..sorry!" 
"No, that's fine!  Sorry you've been kinda a fish out of water.  I should've come over more,"  I basically felt terrible.  I should've just gone over and sat with her, if all else failed. 
"I'm gonna be a copycat.  No, that's fine.  You didn't know,"  she gave me a small smile, "and thanks for listening.  It actually felt pretty good to tell someone."
I nodded.  "I'm happy to listen.  So....I was wondering what some of   your dreams are?  If you're not comfortable talking about that, that's fine." 
"I'd...prefer not to...for now."  she shrugged her shoulders up to her ears. 
"Okay, that's fine.  I understand--I suppose I shouldn't have asked you, this is just the fourth or fifth time you've  talked with me, really.  Sorry, that was kinda...off the wall of me."  I felt pretty stupid for asking that...sure, we'd talked about that same thing just a coupla weeks after we had first met, and yes, I had told her I loved her as well...but it was different this time, on so many different levels.  Gosh, I'm such an idiot.
She gave me a thankful smile, and we walked in silence for a little bit.  She looked like she was thinking about something, and I wanted to ask what, but I was half afraid of screwing up again.  Good grief, I had dated her once and had done okay enough, why was I some odd, creeper-like, weirdo this time??
But then she stopped, right in the middle of the walk.  She turned, looked me right in the eye, and said: "You know what?  No.  I'm fine with telling you.  You're not like Flynn, you won't laugh, will you?  And you seem honest in your intentions...I'm just scared of letting people in...after Flynn.  You know what I mean?" 
I nodded.  "I promise I won't laugh, I'd never laugh.  And it's totally understandable, I mean...really, it is." 
She nodded and sucked in a deep breath, holding it until she let it all out in a laugh.  "You know, they're just so silly that I don't even know why I call them dreams...hopes...goals...whatever."
"I'm sure they're not,"  I already know what they are...they weren't stupid and we had such a great time together, crossing off your dreams/goals...gosh, why can't things be back the way they were before?  "Well...I want to go stargazing...get married...start a family...you know--the usual.  And it's kind of a goal of mine not to be kissed until someone asks for my hand in marriage.  It's stupid,  I know, but I want to be sure that my first kiss is with the guy I'm spending the rest of my plastic life with.  So...that's basically it.  Weird, right?" 
I gave her a smile.  "No...not at all!  And the kiss makes sense, actually."
She sucked in another deep breath, giving me a curious look.  "What about you?" 
"Hm?"
"Your dreams?  Plans?  I-if you don't mind me asking." 
I panicked.
She'd never asked me this before.  I was the most dull being on the planet, all I wanted was to have her back and to have the girls back. 
How do I say this, how do I say this...don't freak out--oh well, too late for that...should I tell her?  No.  Not yet.  She's still not over Flynn, and this isn't the best time to tell her.  What do I do.....!!!  "You think YOUR dreams are boring?  Mine are literally just to marry and have a family."
She laughed shyly.  "I think that's everyone's default, soo...that's cool.  You're more likely to achieve your dreams, anyway!"
"Oh, really?"  I asked.
"Yeah!  There are four -- well...I don't suppose you'd marry Punzie, seeing as she kind of banned you from staying in the same display area as they are....so three, I suppose-- eligible girls.  I'm sure any of them would be just beyond lucky to have you!" 
"Three?  It seems to me that there are five, if you count Punzie," I watched her face.  This conversation was teetering dangerously close to becoming a disaster. 
"Huh?"  she gave me an absent stare, and I could tell she was trying to think of who she was missing.  When she realized it was herself, she just whispered, "Ohh." Her gaze dropped to her bare feet.
Great.  She's going to freak out, because now she knows where my affections are...just great.  I just blew it--
"I'm sorry," I blurted in a desperate attempt to keep her from leaving.  I didn't even know if she would run off and leave, but I didn't want her to.  "I'm sorry!  I--"
"No, it's fine.  That just never occurred to me before," she laughed, but I could see the panic in her eyes. 
Say something...say something funny...get her mind off of it....don't blow it...DON'T BLOW IT!!"So, ah...maybe we should change the subject?" 
She gave a genuine giggle.  "Yeeahh...let's!"
So we talked about music.  Talked about books.  Talked about anything...talked about Flynn once or twice.  We were on the floor for hours, until it started to fall dark, and then we went back up on the table. 

She started to go back to her side of the table wordlessly, but then she poked her head around the divider.  "Eugene?  Thanks.  I really needed this today, and I had fun, despite the awkward start." 
YES!
"No, thank YOU for today.  It was so fun!  And yeahh...sorry about that." 
My girl --well...you know..--gave me a cute grin.  "It's all good.  I'll see you sometime!" 
"Yup.  Good night -- and get some sleep.  Knock on the divider if you can't...If I hear you, I'll sit up with you."
"Okay.  Night," she ducked back over to her side of the shelf.
When she was gone, I sighed.  I was tired, but I knew I wouldn't be able to go to sleep, and it was only around eight.  Ugh.