⚔. ᕼ E ᖇ O E ᔕ

Hey guys!

Winn was relived she didn’t want him to leave – to have someone want him around, it was something he wasn’t used to. Perhaps climbing up the fire escape to her bedroom was a bit heedless of him given what happened when he arrived at the front door, but that kiss seemed to change something. It made everything so clear, his feelings so real and close to the surface. A smile managed to come to his lips after Kara expressed her gladness that he returned. “If you don’t mind me staying, I’d be more than happy to. Selling papers is more exhausting than people realize.” Especially when the weather was either too hot or cold. “If you feel more comfortable with me on the floor, I wouldn’t complain. The only beds I ever get to sleep in are overly cramped, usually two or three stuck together on a small mattress. But lodging houses aren’t known for there accommodations.” He wanted to leave the decision up to her, seeing as they weren’t married it would be largely frowned upon. He was too tired to walk all the way back, yet would leave if asked. It wasn’t his house, Winn didn’t expect to be provided any rights to stay. Just seeing her was enough. They way her face lit up whenever she grinned, her eyes so bright. If only it was possible to just keep standing there so he could keep looking at her, saving a picture of a beautiful woman in his mind forever.

“Of course I don’t mind you staying.” Kara replied with a smile, “I don’t think anyone our age should be working a job like that. It’s too demanding of a job anyway, especially for those that are so young and have no choice in the matter. I can imagine selling papers is not a job that pays well either.” Legally, she knew Winn could work for they had to be around the same age, but it still wasn’t right to her. Kara’s heart broke even more when he went into the details of the sleeping arrangements he’s used to. Who cares what society thought! She had a large bed, lots of open space on the floo, and even a couch on the other end of her room she often read books on. Kara wasn’t about to have Winn sleeping on anything other than a bed. If he had such poor sleeping conditions, Kara was going to make sure he had the best sleep of his life.

She moved back inside her room and waved for him to follow. “I’d love for you to stay, Winn. You can sleep in bed with me because it sounds like you sleep in horrible conditions. I think you could use a good night’s sleep, but feel free to sleep wherever you feel the most comfortable.” She had never slept in the same bed with someone of the opposite sex before. What was so wrong about it anyway? She had no ulterior motive in offering her bed for it was one made out of love and concern for a human being... a man Kara had easily fallen in love with at first glance. Would temptation be there? Possibly... but Kara also knew where she stood. She cared about Winn so much that she wanted to make sure he was comfortable.  

He hadn’t really considered much of anything, other than seeing Kara again. It wasn’t a difficult climb, the rungs of the ladder steady enough, and it wasn’t like he hadn’t scaled the side of a building before or slept on a fire escape either. “I couldn’t wait a couple more hours,” he whispered in return, keeping his voice low. “It’s safe enough – I think.” Winn knew it wasn’t the smartest idea to linger, especially given the first impression he gave to her father, yet it was early. Why would anyone disturb her at one in the morning while she was allegedly sleeping? “It was a good idea and this might be a bad one but the lodging house is a few blocks away and honestly, I don’t want to be too far away from you. That’s not weird, right? I know we only just met. I’ll leave if you want me to.” Only be her say-so would he go, if the choice was his to make, Winn would want to remain in her company. There was something about Kara that pulled him in her direction, keeping him from placing too much distance between them.

I was nice to hear that he didn’t want to leave her side. It made her smile and perhaps this wasn’t considered proper to have him up here, but Kara was never one to really follow the expectations most people wanted from her. She really cared about him and much like Winn, being parted from him until the next morning was something she didn’t want. “No no no.” Kara repeated with a smile, “I wouldn’t ask you to leave. I’m— I’m glad you came back.” Kara quickly glanced at her bedroom door before looking back at him. “Do you... want to stay? No one comes in my room in the mornings anyway, so you could always sneak out first thing. It’s the least I can do anyway because you walked me home so I wouldn’t be alone. I wouldn’t want you to walk back alone because who knows what could happen. I— I have a big bed... or there’s always the floor or the couch.” She felt so nervous to mention her bed because sleeping in the same bed with two people not married to one another was frowned upon in their culture, but Kara was a woman with her own mind and opinions. She didn’t think it was a concern but would Winn? And she also felt strange telling him what she owned for she knew he probably didn’t have much. She hated that her family had so much while Winn and those like him had little to nothing. 

In truth, Winn wished they could have continued kissing forever – wanting to remain trapped in her touch and keep that spark of happiness however long possible. He never thought a girl like Kara would ever want him in return, despite their short time knowing one another, he looked forward to speaking to her again. If only it was so simple that he could stay up in her room and talk all night. But that was highly improper all things considered. They hadn’t even started with an appropriate courtship. Not that Kara’s family would permit the two of them to date, yet he had a feeling neither cared too much for their approval. But that was a matter to discuss another day, perhaps their next meeting, because he wanted to how far their connection could lead them.

“Maybe just a little but I don’t regret it. Kissing you was – it was amazing,” he admitted before her lips brushed his cheek. A smile formed, his hand lifting to wave in return. “Goodnight.” Winn backed up a few steps, watching as she headed inside, the two unable to tear their gazes from one another. A slight chuckle escaped after her laugh and near tripping. “That might be a good idea.” He spoke softly, able to feel the racing of his heart as it slammed against his chest. “I’ll be looking forward to seeing you tomorrow.” He sighed once she disappeared from view, retreating behind a closed door. With heavy reluctance he started to walk away. Although his feet moved his mind remained transfixed on Kara. The last thing he wanted to do was return to the lodging house, but if he didn’t, he’d be late at the circulation gate and might not get the papers he needed to sell. Then again, he could make it if he ran fast enough in the morning. Instead, he rounded and headed towards the side of her building, quick to scale the fire escape to her window, pushing his fear of heights aside best he could.

Kara stayed by the window until he was out of eyesight. She thought he had left and decided to start changing into evening clothes when she heard the sound of metal clanging against itself. She grabbed a robe and covered herself and slowly walked over to her window to investigate. “Winn?!” Kara whispered. “What are you doing?!” She smiled down at him after opening her window. “You do realize what you’re doing is not safe? Need help?” As much as she found his actions rather charming, Kara knew it was also a serious matter that if her father came in, well, he would most likely call for the constable to take Winn away. She looked over her shoulder briefly to see if they were safe before giving him her attention. “I thought you said parting ways for the night was a good idea?” Kara smirked as she sat along her window just to keep watch of her bedroom door. Besides, it was close to 1 o’clock in the morning at this rate, so she had no doubt that her father had retired to bed for the night. 

Kissing her brought about a new sensation – a strong feeling pulling at his chest, wanting to press forward and take it a step further. But Winn prevented himself from showing the desire, keeping his hands from the clothing he’d gladly tear her free of if given the permission. On the street and near her family was the worst possible time to have the notion overtake. Kara deserved every possible ounce of respect and he was inclined to keep himself in check, afraid to ruin what was happening between them, needing to cling onto their connection.

He kept his lips against hers, bodies so close he could feel the warmth radiating between them. Winn’s hand remained around the curve of he neck, mind stuck in a whirlwind of emotions. He knew by standings he was far too below her, he’d never be able to gain the approval of those among her class, especially the family who took Kara in. But just for a minute, for a moment, he wanted to be free of the shackles holding him down – even his own name was a constant reminder of the life he was forced to live. A newsboy, someone who barely had so much as a nickel to spare. The deepening of the kiss made him dizzy with desire, so much so he had to break it off, the motion slow in parting. “As much as I would love to keep doing that, I should probably say my goodbyes until tomorrow.” He drew from her touch, breathless and far more captivated than he envisioned possible.

Kara couldn’t believe she ended up kissing someone she just met, but the feelings she had for Winn were genuine. She never really courted anyone before— never kissed anyone before. She knew what her boundaries and morals and one of them were to take things slow, but the chemistry was almost too much to try and keep buried any longer. If Kara could find a way to sneak him into her room, she would for she hated the thought of being away from his presence. She deepened the kiss one more time and found Winn being the first to pull back. She wanted to tell him not to stop and she found herself following his lips and nearly sought them with great haste before coming back to reality. He had a point and she nodded in agreement. 

“I think that’s a good idea. I don’t think we should get too carried away... but maybe I’ve already gotten carried away.” She laughed a little before kissing his cheek instead. “Goodnight, Winn.” She stepped away from him, giving him a slight, awkward wave. “Goodnight.” She reached for the doorknob still facing Winn and instead of reaching for the knob, she found herself tripping and blushing from embarrassment. “I should probably look where I’m going.” The tone of her voice was that of someone embarrassed with a small chuckle escaping to try and hide how she felt. “Goodnight... again.” She waved and opened the door, closing it as she walked in and kept her eyes on Winn until he was out of sight. How did it go from Winn walking her home to the two sharing their first kiss? She sighed happily with her back against the front door and smiled before running upstairs to her room. She ignored Jeremiah yelling at her for being seen with someone like Winn and ran to her bedroom window to watch Winn leave.

          Welcome to Once Upon Another Time RP! 

Are you a fan of Once Upon a Time? Do you miss being part of a community that you can watch the show with week by week? Are there different happy endings you wanted for your favorite character(s)? Do you have questions left unanswered? Here at onceuponanothertime-rp you can experience and explore all of that and more! 

We are a blended ask-based and para-based canon-divergent role-play group for Once Upon a Time. Our story began immediately following Snow Falls (1x03) and we are slowly diverging onwards every Sunday. Due to our AU weekend coming up, our next episode change, to Red-Handed (1x15), will be on Monday, July 6th! We are a group that encourages community storytelling, creativity, and fun. 

Some of our most wanted characters are: August Booth, Leroy/Grumpy, Granny, and Archie Hopper. If you’re not interested in any of those characters, please take a look at our characters page to see who’s available and send in an application. And please feel free to send any of our characters an ask.

*gif used with permission from the creator.

Winn wasn’t sure what Kara thought of him – how she saw him through her eyes. So many people judged on appearance alone or assumed the kind of guy he was based of his parents. But he tried to stay away from the criticism, he clung to optimism because without it, he feared what a downward spiral in morale would do to him. Yet with Kara, despite the short time they knew one another, he was beginning to see that maybe it was possible to speak the truth of his past and not expect the worst of responses. She didn’t find him worthless. Kara saw something in him worth sticking around for.

He was surprised to hear a positive answer. The last thing Winn wanted to do was move too quickly, and perhaps scare her away from the idea of being something more than friends, although he would have settled for the latter. Normally, he wouldn’t be the first to rush into something, preferring to take things slow. His heart as telling him otherwise, thumping loudly against his chest, he almost couldn’t breathe. “Just tell me if you want me to stop,” he told her in response, keeping his voice at an even tone. A hand came up to cup the curve of her cheek before he moved in closer, allowing her the space to refuse. When nothing came, he slowly lowered his lips against hers, relaxing into the kiss the shared. The very sensation made him weak in the knees, a spark quick to ignite.

He was sweet to even bring the thought of her wishing for him to stop at the moment. Wanting him to stop was the last thing on her mind because all she had been thinking about since they first started talking was how much she desperately wanted to kiss him. Kara was never one to move so fast with anyone, but this was the first time she felt such a strong connection with someone. He understood her, respected her, made her smile and laugh... There was just so much chemistry between them, a spark igniting with every step they took to end up in this very spot. 

It felt like things were moving in slow motion as she watched him close the gap between them. The touch of his hand against the curve of her cheek was a welcome one as she reaching up to cover her hand over it with a smile on her face. Was it possible to be so incandescently happy? Was it possible for one to die from such a feeling? If so, Kara would die happy, weak in the knees as the man she had such strong feelings for finally kissed her. She kissed him back, slowly to start, deepening it within minutes as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Nothing else mattered to her now than being his arms. Kara just saw him as a young man her age and never once saw him as a newsboy who was beneath her. He was her equal and one she wanted to give her heart to. She pulled herself as close as she could with her hands resting in the back of his hair.

“Gonna keep looking at me like that, freckles?” a brow raised, arms crossing acriss his chest. Her eyes on him had his heart beating quickly, teeth digging into his cheek. There was always something he believed between them, some sort of unspoken words that meant that there was more to them just the bickering and arguing. But it was her next actions that proved it to him that everything in his mind was true, watching her closely as she approached him. His hands dropped to his side, eyes dropping down to catch hers before she pressed her lips against his. A hand reach easily to the back of her head, fingers tangling themselves in the softness of her hair. Sawyer worked his lips against hers, refusing to break away from the moment. Pulling back, he pressed his forehead against hers.

“Thinkin’ I’m liking your company even more now.”

This was really not like Kate to make the first move. He just knew what to say to get a reaction from her and in the heat of the moment, kissing him was all she could think about doing to release that sexual tension she had been in denial about. Relationships never seemed to be her thing because the men her life always got hurt somehow, so why did she feel such a powerful connection with Sawyer? Her hands moved from his shirt to wrap her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss as if it were her in last, and the passion from those feelings she had been in denial about controlling her every move. She didn’t want to break away either and ended up following his mouth in protest when he finally did. She wanted so desperately to smile from his words and find the joy in it, but the separation between them now... his words... it brought Kate back to reality...

If Winn was being entirely truthful, he didn’t remember his mother much. Mary had always been around – and he thought she cared about him, said as much, but clearly her actions spoke louder than words. “I guess even so, that’s better than being alone. I’d just think for two people who adopted someone, they’d treat that person like family. You shouldn’t have to put up with the way your father is towards you, it’s not right. Still, it’s not my place to argue with your choices.” He didn’t know Kara’s life well enough to put his opinions between them, who was he to judge? Being on his own was hard and his job wasn’t great, yet he was dealing with the outcome of his parent’s choices in the best way he could. Santa Fe remained the dream location, something to reach for, but maybe he didn’t need it as much anymore.

He usually brushed aside treatment like that, it was all he really could do. “We can’t change the way people feel. Knowing there are others out there who hold your views is enough for me. Besides, I don’t think it’s the best idea to argue with your dad on the matter.” Winn didn’t want her getting into any more hardships on his account. Her night started with trouble in the first place, it didn’t have to end the same way. He knew they’d be parting ways until tomorrow, only he didn’t want to leave – he didn’t want to force himself from her company.

Her small bout of laughter made his heart flutter, the sensation unexpected yet he didn’t want it to stop. His mouth formed a smile as well, gaze meeting hers. And when she stepped closer, taking her hand in his once again, he felt his emotions flare. “I was hoping I wasn’t,” he replied, keeping his voice low – though he was sure there was no dire need to keep quiet. “Maybe we can keep it a regular thing.” As friends perhaps, regardless of how much he wanted it to be more. Winn didn’t tend to rush anything, but looking at her now, seeing the way her eyes lit up, it was almost too much. He glanced down at her lips, edging a bit nearer, deciding to risk it. “Would it be okay if I kissed you right now?”

Kara knew in just the past hour-- or hours now since they first met that Winn had a rough life. She couldn’t believe that despite all of his hardships, Winn was so mature and positive about anything and everything around him. He wasn’t afraid to stand up to her father, wasn’t afraid to come to her rescue in the alley... She admired that and it made her feel comfortable in his presence for Kara was the same way to a certain degree. What she failed at was finding positivity when life took an unwanted turn. She could learn from Winn in that department and she was already doing exactly that. 

She really would like to keep it a regular thing whether or not he meant as friends or something more. Was it foolish to even think they could explore something so special as a courtship after just meeting one another? Kara knew the answer was probably yes and yet she couldn't help but think of him in that regard. Kara trusted him, valued his good opinion, respected him as a human being... She knew that had she went inside when Jeremiah did, Kara would be awake all night thinking about the handsome newsboy that walked her home. She had thought about asking him and yet it seemed Winn took the leap first. Kara bit her lip, smiling. This was not how she was expecting the night to end and she had never felt so happy. “I was hoping you would ask me that.” 

Hearing Jeremiah speak as if Kara mattered so little to him, as if she was just a guest at his house, caused another flare of disbelief to hit. Winn wasn’t usually the type how’d confront another so recklessly, but he couldn’t stand by and do nothing while abusive words were thrown towards someone he cared about, no matter how quickly the attachment formed. “You adopted her, that makes Kara your daughter – your family. Where I come from that means something.” Winn might no longer have his parents in his life, but he did have those he’d consider friends, many who were in the same position as him. He merely shook his head. “It doesn’t matter who I am because anyone with an ounce of self-respect would speak to you just the same. Yeah, and you better hope your true personality doesn’t make the headline. Though I’m sure it would make quite a sell.”

Winn would occasionally read a few articles ever now and again, some even about the great and well-known Doctor Danvers. The prose never dove past his accomplishments, never commenting on the type of guy he was. He didn’t want to think they took Kara in for anything less than the goodness of their hearts, but it was clear how little she was cared about. Not that he was fully surprised given the things Kara told him. Winn was about to make another remark, only he didn’t get the chance before Kara spoke up. The intentional banging into on Jeremiah’s part was let go, but he still sent a glower in his direction after being forcibly shifted aside. When they were finally alone, a heavy breath was released. “You don’t have to apologize for him. I’m guessing the rest of you family is just as nice?” Winn approached her again, letting a smile form freely. “I’m fine. I pretty much used to that kind of stuff. Never want to see you again? As if. What I want is to keep seeing you. Tomorrow, the day after that, right now. But if I’m getting the wrong impression, just say so and I’ll back off.”

“Thank you,” Kara replied with a small smile. She was still embarrassed about how Jeremiah treated Winn, but she really was grateful that he had come to her rescue once again. What made Winn care so much about her? “Eliza Danvers is actually very nice to me. She was the one who convinced Jeremiah to take me in, but even Eliza treats me like I don’t belong here. I almost wish they didn’t take me in because being with a family that doesn’t appreciate me is almost worse than being alone.” Kara didn’t really know what was keeping her now that she was old enough to live on her own. She had felt alone her entire life and yet it was nice to have someone around despite how poorly they all treated her. She was scared to live on her own and feel that loneliness once again. Kara needed an escape and perhaps she had found that in her new friend. 

Her smile turned into a frown for she hated hearing him talk like that. “No one should be used to be treated like that. I’m so angry with him for everything he did to you.” If she could really lash out Jeremiah without any repercussions, Kara would gladly do so to defend the honor and integrity of Winn. All of her cares and concerns about Jeremiah seemed to fade once he said he wanted to keep seeing her. She couldn’t help but smile at him while her cheeks turned a light shade of pink in the process. What does that mean? Keep seeing me? Does that mean what I think it-- it can’t be... 

She laughed at how he went on about seeing her and was thankful for other reasons to smile again. In the short amount of time they had together, Winn seemed to know just when she needed to laugh or smile. “You’re not getting the wrong impression.” Kara smiled as she stepped closer and laced her fingers with his own once more. “I’d love to keep seeing you as well.” She glanced down to their hands laced together and smiled again before looking up at him. She had never felt his happy and it almost felt foreign to her. She glanced down at his lips like she did before Jeremiah interrupted them, “Winn, I--” Kara bit her lip and smiled before making eye contact again. She wanted to kiss him so desperately but was afraid to scare him off. 

There was a forming anger starting to buzz under the surface and it was because of people like him – people who called him a thief (which wasn’t untrue, all things considered), who thought of him as nothing more than trash. But he fought to keep the rush of irritation down, he was too afraid of it – too scared to let it overtake. It was frightening how quickly it managed to appear, the sudden switch from a heart racing sensation, such a pure, innocent longing for so little as a kiss, to something that easily frayed his nerves. Winn kept quiet as they spoke and when Kara took his hold of his hand again, it seemed to wash away his grievances, her words of kindness another driving force. Kara Danvers was like no woman he ever met before, so willing to openly state her views.

Winn waved off her apology, it wasn’t necessary. “It’s fine. I’ll be looking forward to it.” His reply was kept quiet so her father wouldn’t hear, hoping she wouldn’t get in any more trouble on his account. But then she kissed him on the cheek. While he wanted to pull her close and capture her lips in full, he was satisfied with the lingering impression left upon his skin – the slight tingle remaining behind as she drew away. Despite how much he liked Kara, he understood why her father reacted so poorly. Winn was hardly a gentleman by stature. His clothing was dirty, his hands stained faintly with ink from the papers he carried around. There was nothing he could give her, he didn’t even have a penny to his name. Being a newsboy didn’t qualify him as a respectable suitor.

He was about to leave them be until Jeremiah latched onto her wrist. His legs automatically pushed him forward in motion, getting between the two. “You can say what you want about me, say to my face I’m lower than dirt, but you might want to watch the way you speak to your own daughter. Grabbing her like that, she’s not your property.” Winn was aware talking back to her father (when Kara could rightfully stick up for herself) was wrong. But a parent treating their child so harshly, he couldn’t stop himself from wanting to protect her. “She said she was sorry for being late, that should be enough for you. And maybe you should be at least a little concerned about the reason why.”

Kara was about to defend herself against Jeremiah but Winn stepped between them instead. She was shocked someone would come to her defense and Jeremiah was shocked to see another young person stand up to him. It touched Kara to see Winn coming to her rescue once again. She smiled before looking back at Jeremiah in hopes that he wouldn’t lash out at her new friend. “Daughter? Kara is not my daughter, boy.” His words hurt and she tried her best not to show emotion because of it. Eliza, Jeremiah’s wife, was probably the only one in the home that showed Kara any kindness. She was the one to convince Jeremiah to adopt her all those years ago, but even then Kara felt like an outsider to Eliza at times. “Who do you think you are speaking to me like that? Kara is often late and I think it’s best for you to go back to selling newspapers.”

Kara couldn’t help but let a single tear fall down her cheek. All Kara wanted was to be loved and accepted by her new family. She never called Eliza or Jeremiah her parents, never once called them mom and dad... Kara never called Alex her sister. Kara never once felt welcome in their home and while she had wealth and possessions most people often dream of owning, nothing mattered to her beyond feeling accepted and loved... the feeling of being a family. Kara felt that more with Winn in one hour than she did with her new family in the last 8 years. “She lives under my roof and I’ve had it with her tardiness.” Kara sighed, “Please, stop! Let me just say goodbye to Winn and thank him for walking me home. I’ll come inside after that, alright? Just stop being so rude to Winn. Please.” Jeremiah took a minute to think about Kara’s proposition before nodding, walking back inside with a sigh but not without bumping into him intentionally.  “I’m really sorry.” Kara sighed, “I told you I lived with a horrible family. Are you okay? I won’t blame you if you never want to see me again.”

Just maybe Kara would be the one person he’d be willing to open up to. “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind. It might be nice to have someone listen and that goes both ways.” Sure, they met only a short while ago, but he felt as if they were quickly starting to form a connection. “It sounds like they were great people. I’m sorry you lost them. I can’t say much about the two who adopted you, but one thing I do know is no one truly compares to your mother and father, especially when they’re as good as you say.” Winn knew he couldn’t think the same regarding his. Mary’s sudden abandonment, was exactly that, sudden and unexpected. And Winslow, the two of them were so alike, then one day he snapped. Nothing had been the same since.

“Something I learned firsthand,” Winn admitted. Plenty of orphans dealt with the same thing, only his escapes had been fueled with a want to stray from his dad’s path and ending up in jail did the opposite. “The more kids in the Refuge, the more money the city sends to take care of them, the more the warden sticks in his pocket. What does he care if they get little food? And the punishments, they’re a bit extreme. If I had the money, I’d do the same thing – get all of them out and someplace safe.” But he lacked the power to do much of anything. Instead he gave whatever he could. The system wouldn’t change if there wasn’t anyone willing to stand up and fight. Winn was a nobody with nothing to his name, who would listen to him? Perhaps if it was in the paper, people would start paying attention.

“I’m angry about it too, so no apologies needed.” He kept his fingers interlocked with hers, reluctant to let his hand detach. Regardless, her agreeing to meet up the next day gave reason to smile, though it seemed unbelievable. “You would? I can’t afford not to sell papers, but I can meet up after work or even during lunch, if you prefer.” In case being out a night wasn’t a possibility for her. Winn noticed the expensive layout of her home, yet his eyes were drawn to Kara – the headlighting casted a light upon her beautiful features. He found himself glancing down at her mouth, wanting to kiss her, wondering if he should. Winn felt his throat run dry, leaving him to only nod after she spoke. When Kara began leaning towards him, Winn did the same, anticipating the touch of her lips. He was so close to eliminating the distance until he noticed the presence of another. “I think we have an audience. Your father’s watching from the window,” Winn practically whispered, a kiss so near in reach yet he was only permitted a brush against her lips before speaking.

Kara couldn’t believe that she was about to kiss him and while she swore to never move fast with anyone, there was a connection with the man who came to her rescue an hour prior she couldn’t deny. She felt as if she had known him for years and he seemed to understand her more than those in her social circle. She was about to pull back because perhaps she was moving too fast, but Winn was also leaning close and it made her change her mind. Was it possible that he shared the same feelings for her? Kara only smiled when she noticed he had moved closer while moving to wrap her arms around his neck. Their lips were inches from touching and yet his words brought her back to reality. 

Your father’s watching from the window. 

Kara was forced to pull back and face her father but while Winn informed her of who was watching, her father had made his way outside with his arms crossed. Why was he still up? He was either worried or annoyed for her late arrival and Kara knew worried wouldn’t be one of them. "Where were you? We were worried and about to call the police for a search party, but it seems you’ve been in the company of a thief.” A thief? She knew many people held to that opinion and many others about newsboys and it infuriated her, but Kara still held onto hope that Jeremiah would change his mindset one day. “You were worried?” Kara questioned, holding Winn’s hand again. “I’m sorry but you don’t look worried to me. Newsboys are not common criminals and saying such a thing is rather unkind.”

She turned to give Winn a sympathetic smile. She wanted so desperately to kiss Winn, but Kara didn’t want their first kiss to be rushed and with Jeremiah watching. “I’m so sorry about him. I’ll see you tomorrow, Winn. Thank you for everything.” Kara kissed his cheek both out of gratitude for his heroism earlier and out of love before walking towards the house. Jeremiah was no furious and Kara knew it was because she had stood up to him. He never liked it when she did and yet what reason did Kara have to stay silent? Kara had learned her lesson the hard way that if she stayed silent in this family about their behavior towards her any further, they would continue to walk over her until she got married or moved out. Jeremiah stopped her from going inside by grabbing onto her wrist hard.

“I told you never to talk back to me. You were supposed to be home an hour ago and there was no need for you to speak to me that way in front of someone like him.” Kara tried to pull her arm and away and yet Jeremiah’s grasp was too strong. “You’re hurting me, you know. I lost track of the time and I was at work. It happens. When I finally realized the time and left, someone stole my purse and that boy was kind enough to walk me home. By the way, you can call him Winn instead of being rude to him. Let me go, please. I’m tired and want to sleep.” 

The desire of physical contact didn’t become apparent until Kara took hold of his hand – the tenderness of someone’s touch, it wasn’t something he was used to. There was a security to be found, and he didn’t want to lose it. But Winn wasn’t blind to the reality of who they were. It didn’t define them by character yet it stationed them. Winn wanted nothing more than their walk to last. The sooner it was over, the earlier he’d have to return to the lodging house, and she safely inside her home. He couldn’t help but wonder if they’d see one another again.

Anger was the one emotion he wasn’t allowing himself to feel, if he permitted it to overtake, he feared the outcome. “My mind is too full with selling enough papers to eat and sleep someplace dry, I don’t spend much time thinking about the past. Or at least, I try not to. As for the people with money, their too focused on themselves to care about anyone else. But clearly, there are exceptions. Like you.”

A smile overtook his expression, her words filling him with gratitude. “I’m glad. It’s rough being in there and those kids, they aren’t treated well.” Of course, Winn knew that firsthand. Those who ran the refuge were as selfish as anyone else, always trying to put more in their pockets. The warden especially, he was cruel and strict, insistent on tracking Winn down as well. Luckily, he hadn’t been caught, letting him be safe for now. “In that case, I appreciate the help. Maybe we should meet up tomorrow and talk about it? If you want to anyway.”

Kara smiled when he considered her to be an exception. “I don’t blame you for not wanting to think about the past, but if you ever do want to talk about it... I’m here.” They had just met not even an hour ago and yet she was hopeful she found a friend in the stranger that came to her rescue. “And I’m glad you think I’m an exception, Winn. My parents are to thank for that. I remember they would often tell me growing up to treat everyone with kindness and respect. It’s just something I’ve carried with me since they passed when I was a little girl.” It was a challenge to stay true to her beliefs when her new family often judged her for it. She liked Winn because she could be herself in his presence and not feel judged at all for her thoughts and actions.

She loved their conversation. She loved how easy it was to talk to him and thankful to have found someone who has the same ideals. “They’re not treated well?” Kara felt sadness and anger course through her body, unlike anything she had ever felt. “That makes me so angry to hear that. How could anyone treat children so terribly? They’re children... If I didn’t live with the family I have and if I had money to take in every single one of them in I would. Every child deserves a safe and loving home.” Kara didn’t realize that they had turned down her street and were approaching her large home. She was embarrassed for him to see where she lived because her adoptive parents refused to do anything about those less fortunate than they were. They had so much money and yet people had Winn had little to nothing to their name. It wasn’t fair. 

Kara could help and yet she knew her whole family would make an even bigger difference if they pitched in with her. She sighed, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to sound so angry.” She said, turning to face him when they approached her home, still holding his hand. “I just don’t like it when children are not treated the way they should be. I... I would love to meet up with you tomorrow.” She bit her lip for she was nervous to be looking right at him still holding his hand, the light of the lamp just a few feet away highlighting his features and she assumed her own as well. Was hugging him goodnight okay? A kiss? How could she possibly end their wonderful night talking? “Well... this is me. I suppose-- I suppose I should say goodnight now.” Kara gave him a small smile and without realizing it, Kara found herself leaning in closer to him as if she were to kiss him, unaware that Mr. Danvers, Jeremiah Danvers was watching through the window. 

With every brush of their hands, Winn was fighting the want to take hold. He wasn’t sure if he should – if Kara anticipated him too. And the last thing he wanted to do was offend her or make her uncomfortable. But he was surprised when it was Kara who made the first move and laced their fingers together. Maybe that notion scared him more than her completely disregarding him, because he could easily lose the security of the sentiment, something people who were either really close or in relationships did. Winn didn’t pull away though, instead he maintained his grip. It felt right to have her hand in his, to be so close even if they just met a few minutes ago.

Winn was never one who wanted people to feel bad for him, which usually caused him to present himself differently than how he truly felt. Yet with Kara, he didn’t want to lie or pretend things were better off than they were. Most people didn’t know why his father was in jail and he couldn’t really say why his mother left because he didn’t know or understand. “I guess I’m kind of used to it by now. It all happened a long time ago. But I appreciate you saying that, I’ve come across way too many people who literally couldn’t care less.” He did struggle, living the way he did, saving to afford the lodging house, selling papers when the headline was weak, but Winn made the best of the situation. There were others within the newsies who dealt with worse, albeit some were better off, but at the end of the day anyone in the group would lend a helping hand. Winn didn’t hate those who had money, what he couldn’t stand were those who easily stepped on the working class to climb their way to the top.

“I couldn’t take your money,” Winn initially replied, surprised by the offer. “But maybe you could still help. There are these kids in the refuge, they need clothing and food more than anyone else. I’ve managed to get them what I could, but as I’m sure you can imagine, getting caught stealing doesn’t have a positive outcome. But if this might get you in trouble by any means, I’d hate for it to be on my account.”

Kara bit her lip when he maintained his grip instead of pulling his hand away. She was relieved and it took a lot of stress off her shoulders knowing she didn't make a mistake. She was never one to make a move like this and yet with Winn, she felt comfortable doing so. She knew the chances of seeing him again were probably slim unless they planned on it, so perhaps that gave her all the motivation needed to make that move. She couldn’t help but smile as they turned down another block, but she was also sad knowing that they were about another block or two from her home. 

“Well, you're welcome, Winn.” Kara gave him a polite smile, “I wish you didn’t have to be used to it though. What you went through was terrible and I can’t imagine what you feel now. I’m sad to hear that about other people not seeming to care.” Kara sighed, “I hate that the majority of people that are made of money never care about those who are not as fortunate.” 

She knew he would probably reject her offer but she was happy to hear of other ways she could help. “Winn, I’d love to help with that.” She smiled over at him and while she smiled, Kara couldn’t help but feel sad knowing that children needed her help. Children most of all she be loved by everyone regardless of social standing. “I doubt I would ever get in trouble and even if I did, I could care less. I want to help. I feel guilty about having money when there are people who don’t.”

It was entirely unexpected to feel such a strong gravitational pull towards someone he just met, as if their connection was deeply rooted despite never speaking prior. Her story wasn’t one Winn anticipated, but to be fair, he should know there was always more to a person than meets the eye – just like the stories in the paper, which he sometimes took an interest in reading. And she was kind, someone who saw him as a person, not another face amongst the crowd. Winn felt a spark upon the momentary contact, a minor brush of her hand against his. He wanted nothing more than to reach his fingers out and take hold. But he didn’t want to risk scaring Kara away, an unwanted touch could ruin the steadiness they quickly gained. He felt something for her, and knew it, yet if it wasn’t reciprocated, he couldn’t risk the friendship they seemed to be forming.

“You’d have to do a lot more than that to scare me away,” Winn commented, letting a light smile rest across his lips. “I get that. It’s hard to open up to someone and when they take it differently than what you’re used to it can be a scary thing.” He understood the comment more than most. But being adopted, she was lucky in that aspect – if only she had been taken in by a nice family who loved her.

“My life isn’t exactly fairytale in the making, though I guess no one’s really is.” He was hesitant, of course. Afraid Kara would look at him differently or want nothing to do with him if the truth was spoken. But she held nothing back, it might be worth the risk. “I wasn’t always a newsboy, I used to live with my parents. We lived a good life, we were happy – I used to think it couldn’t get any better than that. But when I was eleven my dad went to jail and that same night my mom took off. Haven’t seen either of them since.” Winn kept the details at surface level, willing to dive deeper if asked. “I did the only things kids without a family can do. Started selling papers, living down at the lodging house when I can afford it. It’s not the best life, but it’s all have. Nothing different or worse than the kids I work with.” And while he had his dream of Santa Fe, Winn decided to keep that to himself for now. While he was desperate to leave the city, Kara might be the reason he changed his mind.

Kara felt as if she had been fighting with herself for ages because their hands kept touching and while it wasn’t on purpose to start with, the young woman was trying to find it in her to overcome her fear in making the first move. Making the first move was something she never did and yet there was a chemistry with Winn that was almost undeniable. However, the last thing she didn’t want was to scare him off and pull away, but what if Winn was also toying with the same? She bit her lip and taking a deep breath to calm her nerves, Kara slowly moved her fingers against his and laced them together. She could play it off as if she was scared to be out so late if need be, but Kara didn’t want to hide anything from him either. 

As Winn went into his own backstory, Kara couldn’t help but feel terrible for all that he went through. For her to complain about her own family only to realize that Winn was pretty much on his own... He had probably longed for a family to be apart of as well. She felt guilty and yet kept herself from saying even that for she didn’t want to make the conversation in the be about her. “Winn, I... I’m so sorry to hear that. How terrible for you to experience all of that so young.” The one benefit of being part of a rich family and making money herself was that she could probably give him some money. She wouldn’t want to see the man she was developing feelings for struggle out here. The idea made her sad because she knew her family would shame Winn and people like him. It was one of the reasons why she hated money because those who were made of wealth refused to give it up to help those in need. It was shameful and she was not about to let that happen. 

“Do you need anything?” Kara asked, “Because if you need money for food or to buy things to make you comfortable, I really would like to help. I don’t have money on me now as my purse was stolen, but I can always meet you somewhere tomorrow and give you something. I don’t know if that’s offensive to even ask but I feel bad having so much when others have little to nothing to their name.”

@ofsacriifices​

Red panted heavily as she shifted from her wolf form back into her human self. She was still getting used to being able to shift, and she had just used her wolf abilities to take down the men that had been harassing them for the past few days. She knew her best friend was wanted by the queen for inane reasons and she wasn’t about to let anyone take her. Adrenaline coursed through her veins and she smiled as she turned to face Snow, another enemy defeated. “We did it!” Before Red knew what she was doing her hands were on Snow’s cheeks and she was pulling her in for a kiss.

It only took Red a moment to realize the mistake she made. She pulled back, a shocked look on her face and a blush on her cheeks. “I-I don’t know…” She stepped back from her dearest friend. “I’m not sure what came over me. I shouldn’t have done that.” She had to resist the urge to run. She was embarrassed and not entirely sure why she had done that. Snow was her friend and nothing more. She didn’t even see other girls that way. At least she didn’t think she did. “I’m sorry,” she spoke softly and looked at the ground.

Snow had no doubt that she wouldn’t be alive today if it weren’t for Red. After everything she endured between losing her mother, father, and now dealing with an evil Regina, Snow White expected to live the rest of her life alone and on the run. It was as if fate brought her to Red and she would forever be grateful for the bond the two shared. Snow trusted Red not just as a friend but with her life.

Their friendship was strong and it was that very friendship that encouraged Snow to continue fighting through this time of uncertainty that surrounded Regina and her kingdom. Snow was relieved that they defeated their latest round of enemies, and each time she watched her friend turn from her wolf form back into a human, it amazed Snow that Red showed her the same trust in return to defeat whatever came their way. 

“We did!” Snow smiled, “For a second I thought--” The last thing she was expecting was for Red to kiss her. Snow froze for she was unsure of what to do or say in that moment. “You don’t have to apologize for that, Red. It’s okay.” She could see the pain in the eyes of her dearest friend and gave her a sympathetic smile. “Maybe you kissed me because of something you wish to tell me? You can tell me anything, Red.”