Bella's immediate response was confusion, but then Regina seemed to realize that her letters—which obviously included whatever she was going on about—had not arrived. With a sympathetic smile, Bella proceeded to Regina to one of the couches and, taking a seat, patted on the spot next to her.

"It wouldn't be kidnapping if you came willingly," she joked, though her tone was ultimately somber. She knew what it felt like to feel trapped in an oppressive situation, but had been far more successful at escaping it than Regina had been. "You don't seem happy. Please tell me what's been going on," she requested, patting her friend's hands.