I like that you went over the underlying sadness and loneliness Belle must feel. Lot of authors skip over it and right to the attraction she feels to Rumplestiltskin. Also, the moment with the cocoa was precious.

Aww so sweet, it is stories like these that will keep me going until march :D

That small, high-pitched noise you just heard was me 'awwwwwww'-ing my tonsils out. This was incredibly descriptive, achingly profound, and as sweet as a cup of cocoa. I laughed. I pondered. I 'awwwww'-ed myself senseless. Thank you ever so much for inviting others on this trip to the seaside.

This was gorgeous! Wonderfully written and as sweet as a mug of hot cocoa :)

Awesome story. I love the part where Rumple tries to save a non-drowning Belle and she ends up saving them. I love the banter between them.

This was darling in every sense of the word.

I know you said more friendship than romance but I SAW the romance.

This was just precious. Fav'd. 10/10 stars for you.

Such a lovely tale!