I hate to say this, I really do, but she is a plot device. Unlike some Belle fans, I’ve never had a problem with her being part of Gold’s storyline, furthering his redemption arc – I’ve found it beautiful and gorgeous how she loves and supports him, how her faith in him gives him faith in himself. The problem is that she’s stuffed in a hospital or otherwise disappears into some dark corner of SB until she’s needed.
I actually agree with you. While Emilie is a great actress, I think that Belle’s role is really to serve as Rumple’s moral center. But like you I don’t have a huge problem with that. Belle is my favorite Disney princess, but here on ONCE, while I do LOVE Belle and LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE Rumbelle, this iteration of Belle isn’t my favorite. I’m ok with her being tied to Gold. But yes it is a matter of expectation vs reality. Even if her whole character is just “Rumple’s TL” they need to start developing that outside of speeches and quick romantic gestures like dressing him in the shop.