I’m actually wondering if August’s entire part in tonight’s episode might have prolonged the existence of the curse not ensured Emma broke it. I mean, if it was her destiny to break the curse – regardless if she moves to Tallahassee with her boyfriend or not- she would have still ended up in Storybrooke on her 28th birthday: possibly with a son and husband and happy last 10 years of life. And the first time she kisses either one within the borders of Storybrooke – BAM! No curse! 😀 No months of Emma trying to figure out what the heck is going on!
I think August was motivated because as a writer he see’s the hero suffering and alone leading up to their heroic deeds and thought that was necessary for Emma.