in the kitchen, cooking; open reception
Adorable probably wasn't the correct description. Not when James was 'shy' because he thought he was a tool, a thing, and didn't understand why he was being involved in a social situation. It was depressing is what it was.
Jefferson didn't feel like getting into that, so he merely shook his head and avoided making a face because he knew that Emma was only teasing. "I wonder how much longer he'll be shy when he isn't given the choice anymore."
The thought of all of them together in a constant living situation was a bit much. It had already taken him some time to adjust living with maybe one or two, but their numbers were only increasing, either by more of their own from home coming in, or taking on those who were from other places. He didn't see that stopping anytime soon. So her concern was comprehensible.
"Is it even something you have to impose so much as a natural thing that they're used to?" Even if Emma never mentioned they all needed to stick together--well she did to him, in her own charming little way--Snow and Ruby likely would be enforcing it all on their own, Stiles had placed himself in a group for a reason, and James didn't have anywhere else to go (nor would leave him alone). "I guess it isn't something you have to worry about until half of Storybrooke shows up. If and when that happens...which is doubtful."
Doubtful but not impossible. There may not have been a pattern to who was getting sucked into Marrowood, but there was definitely a distinction on who was not. Jefferson had been trying to put things together when he had a free moment to think. Not much to go on, but the entire town more than likely wouldn't show up. He hoped.