"Mom, are you decent?" Henry questioned through the door. His deepened voice so grown and yet to her he would always be her little prince. He was still a boy for a moment longer and she would cherish it with every ounce of her being. As Henry stepped inside the room that lopsided grin he inherited from his biological mother shone brightly.

"You look positively radiate." He observed, smile still shining after he placed a kiss on her cheek. Beautiful deep crimson mixing wonderfully with a layered cream near the bottom that formed the train. Silver accentuated her mid-section. Radiate was the best word that described his mother.

"The same could be said for you my little prince." Regina stated pulling him tightly into a hug. Where had the time gone? Once there had seemed so much of it. Now it seemed to slip away rapidly. He was still only boy entering his senior year of high school. After that who knew what adventures he would get into. The only plans she knew of involved taking a more active role as royal in the Enchanted Forest something that had long held his interest. However, he had promised to stay with her until he had completed high school. That was their deal.

His reassuring smile permeated her thoughts when the pad of his thumb wiped some stray tears. "This is a happy day. No tears." He admonished, smile still in place. "I can't wait until you see Ma."

"Running late?"

"No, she is out there barking orders. I think the shock of seeing her in a dress spurred the dwarves into action more so than the barking."

The mayor smiled to herself. In less than an hours' time they would become bound to each other in multiple realms, both in the Enchanted Forest and Storybrooke. After plumbing had taken over the Enchanted Forest Emma insisted that it took place there. Amongst the most beautiful backdrop, she had ever seen. Almost as beautiful as you, Emma had said kissing her. For a woman who had not believed in roots or happy endings once upon a time, she largely had an idea how everything should be. Emma spent most of her waking and off hours planning and going over her ideas with her future wife. Including that they not see each other the same day.

When a familiar knock sounded at the door Henry made up an excuse to help his ma get final preparations, letting his Aunt slide into the room with a gasp. Her doe eyes took in Regina's gown as smile exploded across her features. Not unlike how her mother had reacted all those years ago as a girl and the resemblance was uncanny. So much had changed. She had changed.

Andrea handed her a blind fold receiving a quizzical look she only heard, "Trust me." The door opened once more and familiar hands landed in hers. It never shut again but Regina could feel with her magic that they were alone in the room. A thumb was stroking over the tops of her hands as a soft chuckle filled the silence.

"You probably think I am crazy for not being able to wait." Emma said softly.

"Patience is not virtue you Charmings have ever possessed." Regina quipped being pulled into her soon-to-be wife. The rustling of dresses made her giddy though she would never admit it

"I missed you. Not being with you was the worst!"

Regina chuckled, "It was torturous I am certain."

The sheriff didn't need clarification. I missed you too came through loud and clear. She rested their cheeks together feeling the gowns in between them. Her cheeks rose against Regina's mischievously, "Can you say it one more time?"

"Miss. Swan!"

"Regina, are you really smiling right now?" Emma questioned.

"I'm sorry! I…why do you want me to yell at you?"

"We've been over this it isn't the yelling. It's just really sexy. REALLY sexy! I'm sorry I can't help it! And after a bit you'll never be able to yell at me the same again."

"Oh I am certain we can work out an arrangement dear."

"You are such a good wife." Emma sighed happily.

"Indeed."

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"I have a surprise for you." She heard other people enter and the sound of chairs across the floor as she was helped into a chair. From the sounds of soft "oh's" she could name one Snow White among the helpers. "Mom, not now!" Emma vocalized with what sounded like a smile on her face.

"I'm sorry honey. Not a peep more. I promise."

"Throw away the key?"

"Mhmm." From her left Charming laughed softly and Regina imagined the warmth of his smile. Giggling ensued from one Andrea White over the debacle as Regina just what the surprise could be and how in the hell Emma could have possibly had time or energy to throw something else together.

"Shortly, we will stand before family and friends to become one. I wanted to capture this moment to be with the ones who mean the most to us and to pray as a family. If everyone could hold hands please." Emma said sounding unsure. Regina could hear the slightest rustling a likely indicator that Emma's chosen footwear was shifting underneath it. Secondly, she felt both hands being grasped by the two loves of her life.

"Lord, it's me, Emma. I know that we haven't had a steady relationship but I am willing to try. I've never been one to rely on faith or to put my fate in the hands of another.. When I was reading the bible to my little sister I opened it to Jeremiah 29:11 by chance, or maybe not so much as I might think. It states that you know the plans you have for me. Plans to prosper and not harm. Plan to give me a hope and a future. So many times, I didn't think that either of those were in reach. But a wise woman once told me that even the possibility of a happy ending is a powerful thing. I couldn't have known then what would happen. I wouldn't have believed that I was destined for this even if you had flashed a sign in the sky saying, Hey you, Emma Swan, you are destined for something amazing. Last night I witnessed another blessing. Another sign to your love for me, my soon to be wife Regina gave her heart to you. Since you know her already, you know how huge that is. She used to be a connoisseur of sorts herself but now she just has mine."

"Emma…"

"Okay, okay. Sorry! Anyway, Lord, as I was saying it was beautiful. She is so incredible. And I can't forget the one blessing that ties us all together, our son. As we proceed to enter this union remind us of our love for each other, even in anger and frustration. Let us remember to be patient, to speak kind words and to slightly, more than occasionally indulge in bear claws. And no matter how many times we fall apart that you can help us fall back together. Amen."

"Amen." Sounded around the room.

"Now let's go get married! I'm starving."

"Color me surprised." Regina sassed.

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At Emma's request, an area near the castle had been transformed and groomed for this day. All but a few residents from Storybrooke were in attendance. The trees formed quiet a magnificent backdrop along with the flowers creating a burst of color. Only the best of everything was available for both the wedding party and guests. Regina couldn't see Emma through the curtain separating the two. She was anxious and it felt like the alter was so far. Through the heart racing thoughts she had not seen Andrea gazing up at her until she held out a hand.

"Let not your heart be troubled Aunt Regina."

So young and so sure of herself, there was no mistaking this was Snows child. It made her smile. In what seemed like another lifetime it would have been Snow. There was hardly a difference aside from her normally easy-going nature thanks to daddy dearest. She had his impossibly warm smile, her mother's chin and long flowing curls.

The music began as Tink, Belle and Kathryn began their trek preceding her in their cream and lace gowns.

"I am ready whenever you are Mom. Really, you look beautiful. Stop fretting." Henry stated, a smile stretching from ear to ear, extending his arm.

"I love you Henry."

"I love you too Mom."

Her heart was beating through her ribcage as they took their time. Emma's curls were in a gorgeous updo with only a strand framing her face. A woven band of small white flowers were adorning her head like a crown. When their eyes met it was if all others melted away as she took her place across from her. Nova motioned for everyone to be seated but Emma was the only thing Regina could see.

"We are gathered here today…." Nova began but the only thing in existence was the two of them.

Those beautiful hazel eyes shined ever so brightly. That beautiful, slightly lopsided smile that matched her own. They were each other's strength and weakness. They were lovers, best friends, family and spouses. She felt first tear drop fall just before Emma could catch it. But she didn't miss the second or third. Emma held onto her hands in silent encouragement. As the rings were presented Regina knew she was up.

My dearest Emma,

Before we begin this journey to our version of a happy ending I wanted to say one thing. I love you, you idiot.

In the background, she heard the rumblings of laughter. She tried to steel herself to get through her vows without further tears.

Your taste in music makes me cringe. The bug is a constant source of worry and a reminder that you will never cease to get into trouble. You never fail to challenge me and your ability to sleep through anything is truly astonishing. The amount of calories you can consume and still maintain your form, sickening. And your choice in outerwear, don't get me started.

This morning like any other, I woke up at 7 A.M. sharp, and though I knew you wouldn't be there I searched for you. The bed was cold; arms were sorely missed from around my waist. There wasn't a mane of wild and crazy blonde curls anywhere to be found. For the first time since you moved in there wasn't a mumbled, "five more minutes." Your favorite jacket wasn't haphazardly draped across the chair at my vanity. The bug wasn't in the driveway. Not surprisingly however, the bear claws that were previously there were missing. I'll just safely assume you, as you so eloquently say "poofed" them to you. All of these things a startling reminder to what life was before you. Predictable.

All of these things a reminder that maybe the reason you can't find your true love is because it isn't in your back yard "picking apples." He isn't driving a death trap. He isn't a she. She isn't anything that you would expect. She is chaos, she is wild, she is challenging. But she is also everything. On your anniversary she sings to you all of her horrible, sickeningly sweet songs that you have to hide your smile behind a coffee cup. But she lets you. And most importantly she embraces the darkness within you. She accepts you.

I love you Emma Swan. I love your infuriating ability to read me and call my bluffs. Before we knew each other you gave me the greatest gift of all, our son. Today more so than any day he is a testament that light can conquer the darkness. He, who was once the singular red spot on a dark heart, has now officially helped increase that to four. Today we become a family. Today we are uniting not just our families but we are uniting ourselves. Two become one.

If the tears flowing down Emma's face weren't enough indication that she was pleased her blush certainly did her no favors. All Regina could think about was kissing her. But she couldn't. So she too settled for wiping tears and smiling her brightest.

Regina,

Only you could take the word idiot and turn it into a loving phrase. I don't think I could live without hearing it. Thank you for that. When I first met you the night Henry came to find me I won't lie I wasn't sure if I wanted to kiss that smirk off of your face or punch you. I guess we now know which one it is.

Emma glanced up just in time to catch the eye roll.

As usual I saved the best part for last and waited to write this until last night. Not because I didn't care but because this moment right here is the moment to end all moments. This is the start of our lives together. People see us as many things; the mayor and sheriff, the evil queen and the savior, darkness and light but I see Regina and Emma. No pretentious titles. I have always seen you. Even when you didn't want to let me. Especially then and I could never love you more than I do in those moments.

Some would say taking a woman's bear claw and exchanging it for apples is controlling but I know it's secretly a sign that you don't want to live without me. You find me….charming. From the moment I arrived in Storybrooke time started moving for you. Not being in control frightened you. As much s Henry finding me and bringing me here led us to this moment you are equally responsible for why I remained. You are part of the reason I developed roots. Mostly to infuriate you some more.

I'll never promise to be perfect, you'll never ask. I can only promise to be unexpected t best. And if I had to spend my life reliving every moment before this one just to meet my son, to meet the woman who raised him, to watch her become my soul mate and meet my parents, I would. But don't make me have to. Because the one…two things I couldn't live without would be you two.

A slight hmph sounded from behind Regina causing Emma to lean around her with a cheesy grin, "I was seeing if you were paying attention."

"Kiss her already!" Andrea urged receiving a wink in return.

"By the powers invested in me by Queen Snow and King James as well as the State of Maine, I now pronounce you Mrs. Regina & Emma Mills." Nova said to thundering applause. Leaning into the two blushing brides, "You may now kiss."

Regina beat Emma to the punch and pulled her into the most passionate kiss either woman had ever experienced. Emma's hands were cupping her face, playing with the shoulder length chocolate locks. The Mayors were holding hips firmly in place. They had twenty-four hours to make up. Their magic was ebbing and flowing with the beating of their hearts by the time they pulled away. They were love.

By the time they separated Emma's head was spinning. Her heart raced. Butterflies had flooded her belly. Two had become one. The air scented with their mingled magic. What a difference a day made. She had shed what little remained of her life before Regina and Henry. She was now Mrs. Emma Mills. Today and every day, happily. Staring back into those endlessly passionate brown eyes her heart couldn't help being overjoyed. So naturally as their exiting song began she kissed Regina once more as if she didn't already have her lips memorized. It was quicker but she felt it all the same. Clear down to the tips of her toes. Gah, her Regina could do that to her. She hated it. She loved it. Needed it just to function in the mornings.

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Regina led her to the carriage and Emma assisted her in. Ruby whistled as they had past. Most guests did the traditional rice throwing and loud party noise-makers. All of this for them. All of her efforts had come to fruition. Honestly, it was even more beautiful in real life than in her head. Regina was no exception. More than that this was the culmination of their love. Regina deserved a dream wedding. A wedding she could be proud of. A wedding of her choice.

A thousand thoughts were playing out behind her lovers dark eyes but the smile never left her face. Her laughter filled the carriage as Emma nuzzled into her neck. It was such a beautiful, rich sound. Another that she would never tire of. Their family was whole and united. Just as they were. The warmth of soft, olive-toned skin played over the pale skin of her arms.

"Emma, where are you right now?" Regina inquired softly into the blonde mane. Emma grasped her hand and let her magic tell the story of her heart. It would do better than her words which seemed to catch in her throat. The tendrils of magic lapped at each other teasingly before joining with practiced ease flooding her wife with the mix of happy emotions and some nerves. When it receded their tears fell in unison. They each moved quickly to remove them. "Everything was perfect."

"You are perfect."

"I've had longer to practise."

Cue a hazel eye roll and laughter. The castle bristled with activity when the carriage came to a halt. One in the line of many and only second to the Queen and King. As each were pulled up to the entrance to the ballroom they were introduced to the already waiting crowds. Quickly though the two brides were swept away to change into more functional clothing. Regina's reception dress was still a deep crimson with plunging neckline and ending slightly above the knee. Emmas too was shorter but with a fluffy skirt she did not look thrilled about. Her pout caused a raucous bout of laughter from her newly minted wife. They met on the outskirts of the dancefloor. Music filled the grand hall beautifully.

"Why so gloom dear?" She asked mockingly

"Mom said that I was a Princess..."

Regina backed away at once curtseying," Oh my! You are a princess!"

"Ha, ha! No, I didn't let her have enough of a hand in our wedding and I felt bad. This was the closest we came to an agreement."

"Mmm. Well it does suit you." Regina teased, kissing her again.

A trumpet blared from the dais and Snow rose to speak. "Emma you look so lovely!"

"Thanks Mom." Emma muttered, blushing like a schoolchild and letting the toe of her heel trace shapes on the floor.

"Today we come to celebrate the marriage of my daughter to her soul mate. Friends, family and special guests. I'll make this short because I know I wasn't the only one to hear Emma's stomach rumbling up at the alter. So please join us in celebration, in song, in feast. May you two truly enjoy all of your days and have nothing short of happy ever after. You may dig in."

Emma hurriedly shoveled plate after plate down the hatch before smiling contentedly. She leaned in, "I love you."

"And I love you."

"More."

"No you don't." Regina scrunched up her nose in mock displeasure.

"No, you don't!"

"You can't prove that you do."

"You can't prove that I don't."

"May I be so bold as to suggest parley?" Snow interjected as she kissed both women on the cheek.

"You may." Regina said with an unnameable expression in her eyes. "If the Queen insists Emma I am afraid we must. What are your terms Princess Emma?"

"That we go dance with our fathers." Emma stated. Visibly nervous as Regina sat there dumbstruck. Her wife smiled as she led her to the dancefloor only to see tears spring anew. There in the middle of the ballroom were one Prince Charming and Henry Sr. Her father's kind eyes and warm smile were unmistakable. He was standing before her in the flesh. Throwing everything aside she ran into his arms. While she tried not to sob the ache in her chest was undeniable. She could touch him, breathe in his scent, see the crows feet at his eyes edge, feel his warmth and hear his laugh.

"Daddy, how..."

"It matters not child. May I have this dance?" He asked, hand out awaiting her grasp. She took it. His hands were just as gentle as she remembered. She never thought she would see him again. Tears flowed freshly as her head sat atop his shoulder. Next to her Emma and Charming swayed to the music. His laughter rang out as she stepped on his boot. Her idiot, she smiled mouthing "Thank you."

The simple nod of a head and smile returned were answer enough.

"Daddy." She breathed, holding onto him tightly. Knowing not how he was here but that their time would indeed come to an end.

"My dearest Regina how good it is to see you smiling so."

"I am happy."

He chuckled softly. "I remember the first time we danced such as this. Papa, Papa may we continue this every day? You asked. For the first time since then I see the happiness is in your eyes. There is no tightness to your smile; it shines freely for all to see. You are truly a sight to behold my daughter. I could not be more proud."

"You have to leave after this don't you?"

"Yes." He said feeling her hold onto him tighter. Keeping the lid to her not so happy emotions closed. "Your wife cares for you greatly."

"She does."

"I hear good things about her."

Her head came slightly off his shoulder and she realized she needed to see him for as long as she could. Who knew when if this would be the final time they could be together. "From?"

"I am always with you." He stated with a smile brushing a kiss upon her forehead "One could not be more proud. After so long I am pleased you have given your heart a chance to love again."

"I love you Daddy."

"And I love you. " He said as the song came to a close.

"Do you have time to meet someone?" she asked, head cocked and for the first time Henry met his namesake. The two Henry's laughed as if they had known each other all their lives. It came so naturally and it was plain to see the pride in her father's face as he took in his grandson. His jovial laugh coming from deep inside as young Henry spoke as fast as he was able trying to explain cars and movies.

"I am sad to say I still do not understand. Maybe another time we can try again?" He asked receiving a warm hug.

"Mom would love that! We could go horseback riding too. I have my own steed."

"That sounds wonderful Henry." He beamed. "But now I must ask you a favor. Please keep an eye on your mother. You are the man of the house and though I should not I do worry for her."

"As you wish." Henry stated, dipping his head in respect.

"You are a fine young man. You will be a great ruler."

The younger Henry led them slightly off to the side, "I have some pretty big shoes to fill. Although I am more an happy to be an heir to the throne it can be overwhelming at times. What if I'm not ready? How will I know who to trust?"

"My grandson you are being groomed for it as we speak, no? Have faith and worry not though you do remind me so much of your mother when she was your age. "

"She could have been great too you know?"

"Indeed child." Henry Senior said. The hint of sadness could not be kept from his voice and his furrowed brow revealed his hand. After having approached Regina she knew it was time. "Regretfully…"

"It's not goodbye." She stated smiling so sadly. "You are always with me."

His rich smile warmed her once more. "Always my love."

"Thank you for coming." Emma interjected, holding out her hand and shaking his firmly before being pulled into a hug.

"Take care of my daughter."

With those final words he was gone. Regina was rooted to the floor staring at the spot he had occupied. Already she missed him. Yet when she looked up she saw the very two people that his passing had brought to her. The ache of that moment when she had taken his life would never fade. Not even minutes and she still felt his presence. I am always with you.