For the Remembering Baelfire event, from Rumple’s point of view. Because nothing is forgotten.
I loved you before I knew you Did what I had to To be there for your growing up. To hold you, to love you, to rock you through the night. I regretted only that I couldn’t give you piggyback rides Or kick a ball around with you But I could tell you stories, And sing you songs. I could give you hugs, and kiss Each bump and bruise better; I could wipe your tears away And tell you it was okay to cry When you were hurt, or scared,or sad. I tried to shield you from your mother’s slights From her indifference, And if I could not wholly succeed (You were always a smart boy – My sweet, brave, beautiful boy) Then I could make sure that you went to bed every night Knowing that your papa loved you More than anything in the world. And I could be there for your triumphs, First steps and first words and Each new mark that I carved upon my staff To mark your growing, into a boy That any man would be proud to call son. I would have died for you – Instead I had to kill.