Chapter 21: Holiday
Roland was overjoyed to see Regina when she stepped into the house. He threw his arms around her waist, clinging to her. "I'm so glad you're not in jail," he said.
"That makes two of us," she replied, holding him close. "There are so many fairytales we still have to read, right?"
"Right," Roland replied, nodding.
Wrapping his arms around his family, Robin held them close. "What if we have a movie night to celebrate? All of us with some popcorn and soda."
Regina shook her head. "We should have a proper dinner first. My little victory in court will not be used as an excuse for poor nutrition."
The two groaned but when Roland looked up at Robin with pleading eyes, he shook his head. "Regina is right. We need to eat some real food first."
"How about some pasta with garlic and oil paired with some grilled chicken?" Will asked, looking pointedly at Regina.
She licked her lips as her eyes lit up and her stomach grumbled. "As long as there's no cheese, it sounds wonderful."
"No cheese, don't worry," Will assured her before heading into the kitchen to start preparing the meal.
After the shock of Henry's declaration had worn off, Regina wanted to know how he knew about her baby. Dr. Whale insisted it hadn't been him and Henry had interrupted, explaining that he was concerned Regina and Robin were hiding something serious from him. He asked Emma to eavesdrop at the door. When she heard that Regina was pregnant, she had quickly told Henry and Will. Everyone was overjoyed for them and since Will had already gone through Marian's pregnancy, he knew exactly how to accommodate her. Regina thought he might've been an angel come to Earth. Robin had told her not to inflate Will's ego.
Robin rubbed her back. "Do you want to go rest? Maybe take a nap? I know it's been a long day."
Fatigue weighed down her limbs and a nap did sound good. The sight of Roland's bright face, though, buoyed her spirits and she shook her head. "I want to play superheroes instead."
Roland shook his head. "Let's play Princess and Knight instead. Please?"
His wide brown eyes were too adorable to resist, so Regina chuckled as she nodded. "I think Princess and Knight is better."
Cheering, he took her hand and led her to the playroom. She heard Robin's steps behind them and she glanced over at him, grinning. "And who are you going to be in our game?" she asked him.
"Whoever the Good Knight determines," he replied. "Though I really hope I'm not the horse. I don't think my poor back can take it."
Regina leaned down, smiling at Roland. "Papa is getting old."
"Oi!" He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. "I am not old!"
She laughed as she wrapped her arms around his neck, her fingers stroking his hair. "I don't know. I think I see some gray hairs there."
"I think they make me look distinguished," he said, puffing out his chest.
"They do," she said, softening her tone and lowering her voice. "You're turning into a silver fox and I like it."
He kissed her and she smiled into it. This felt nice and, dare she say it, normal. Flirting with Robin, kissing him, and just letting him hold her all felt wonderful. She was never going to take "normal" for granted again.
"Eww," Roland said, causing them to break apart. "Are you two just going to kiss for the entire game?"
Robin's arms fell away as he picked up the boy, holding him upside down. "I guess not. Now, if you're the knight and Regina the beautiful princess…who am I?"
"You're the handsome king who needs me to save the beautiful princess so you can live happily ever after with her!" Roland bounced on his feet, excited for the new twist to his story. It made Regina feel giddy as well.
"Why can't I save her?" Robin asked, pouting.
Roland sighed, rolling his eyes. "Because I'm the expert at slaying dragons and you're not."
"Good point." Robin took his hand and led him to the toy box. "Let's find your weapons so you can save my bride."
As they rifled through Roland's toys, Regina sat down on the floor cross-legged. She smiled as she watched father and son seriously consider what the boy would need to "rescue" her from whatever evil creature had stolen her. Their heads were bent over a foam sword and Regina took out her phone, snapping a picture.
She then pressed her hand over her stomach as if she could feel the child growing inside her. How would Roland react to knowing he was going to have a brother and sister? Would he feel he wasn't going to be the center of their world and grow upset? Or would he be excited to have a playmate, someone to drag on these adventures?
Robin approached her, putting a tiara on her head. "There. Now you're a proper princess."
"Thank you," she replied. "Where are you going to be?"
"Over in the corner," he said, pointing just behind her. "I get to sit there and watch my son save the day."
She nodded, smiling at him. "Well, let's go. We don't have much time before Will finishes dinner."
Robin kissed her forehead before heading over to sit in his assigned corner. She stayed still on the floor as Roland "fought" all the ferocious animals in his path, tipping them over one by one until he reached her. He threw his arms around her. "I rescued you, Princess!"
"My hero!" she said, holding him close.
He pulled away as Robin cleared his throat. "I have to return you to the king so you can get married and live happily ever after."
She nodded. "Lead the way, good knight. For I cannot wait to be reunited with my love."
Roland took her hand as she stood and walked her the few feet to where Robin was leaning against the wall. He smiled as she approached, pushing himself off the wall. "Is this my love returned to me?"
"I've been rescued by this very brave knight," Regina said, pushing Roland forward. "We should reward him."
"Aye, we should." Robin picked up his boy and she noticed he grimaced a bit as he did so, meaning Roland was getting too heavy for them to carry him around. She saw the pain this realization brought to Robin, understanding it. There was just something about having Roland cuddled in her arms that made her feel everything was going to be just fine. She also knew that the signs Roland was growing up had to be bittersweet for Robin.
As Roland snuggled into his father's embrace, the painful look evaporated and Robin smiled. "So, dear bride, how should we thank such a brave knight?"
She paused, pretending to think about it before winking at Robin. "Oh, I think I have an idea."
Together they leaned in and began kissing Roland's cheeks. He squirmed between them, laughing. "Papa! Regina! Stop!"
"You two can continue doing that," Will said, drawing their attention. He leaned against the doorframe, smirking. "Or you all can come to the kitchen for dinner. Your choice."
Robin put a breathless Roland down before taking his hand. "Come on. I know I'm starving and I'm sure the brave knight is as well after such a quest."
Nodding, Roland reached up and took Regina's hand as well. Together, the three of them headed to the kitchen as she smiled down at her little family.
Robin stepped out of his bathroom, towel drying his hair before tossing the towel in the hamper. He scanned his room, wondering if Regina was going to spend another night with him. She hadn't mentioned anything when they parted so she could tuck Roland in for the night but that didn't mean anything. Regina knew she was always welcomed to sleep with him if she wanted. He wasn't going to force her if she wanted to sleep in her own bed that night, even if he wanted to be by her side whenever her morning sickness struck.
A soft breeze blew past him and he realized the door to his deck was open. He stepped out to find one of his recliners was pulled forward a bit and when he walked toward it, he saw Regina curled on it under a light green blanket. She grinned at him. "I was wondering when you were coming out."
"I wasn't that long," he said, sitting down with her. She cuddled against him, covering him with the blanket as well.
Regina sighed as she rested her hand over his heart. "It's so peaceful out here. The stars look so beautiful. And don't say that I'm more beautiful than them."
"Okay, but it's the truth." He rested his cheek against her hair as he stared up at the star covered sky. "We've had quite the day, huh?"
She snorted. "That's an understatement. I feel like I've jammed a whole week into today and a whole lifetime into this week."
"That's a very accurate description."
Regina nodded. "I've been reliving my entire past and I've finally embraced it, accepted how it turned me into the person I am today. Now, I want to leave it behind and focus on our future."
His heart skipped a beat when she said our and he pressed his hand to her stomach. Kissing her head, he said: "That sounds like a very good idea."
As they laid there, Robin thought of every change that a baby would no doubt bring to their lives. Would she want to room together? And did she want to stay in this room or the one he had given her when she first started? He knew they couldn't move back into the room he shared with Marian. It was too awkward. Yet did they want to use the same nursery or set up a new one?
Building on that, was Regina okay using Roland's hand-me-downs or did she want new items for her child? They would need new clothing as he and Marian hadn't saved much from Roland, not to mention there was a 50-50 chance this baby would be a girl.
He would love to have a girl.
"Robin?" Regina asked, her voice sounding small. "Can I ask you something?"
"Of course," he replied, wondering what she would decide to tackle first.
She sat up, straddling his legs so she could look him in the eyes. "Is the offer you made a few weeks ago—about Daddy and Emma moving in—still on the table?"
He frowned. "Of course, but I don't want you to think you have to rush anything now that we're having a baby. If you still want to wait…"
"It's not the baby," she said. "I've…I've been thinking about it now that I'm getting more confident I won't end up in jail. My father is trapped in that apartment, often too weak to go anywhere but the hospital. Yet if he's here, there's more space and he can go outside. If we convince him to put aside his pride and use a wheelchair, we can even take him around Mist Haven. I think he'll be happier here."
"Shh," Robin said, laying his hand against her cheek. "You don't need to convince me, lovely. If Henry and Emma are okay with it, I'd love for you all to move in."
She smiled, leaning closer to capture his lips with hers for a brief kiss. "Thank you so much."
"I always meant to fill Nottingham with family," he confessed, something he never even told Marian. "That's why it's so big. I wanted lots of children—including fostering—and to have my entire family around me. But my parents didn't want to leave England and Marian's parents were fine where they were…"
Regina nodded. "Well, then, I'm glad to help you fill up Nottingham. And who knows? Maybe we can look into fostering in a few years."
He paused, amazement filling him as he studied her bright eyes and soft smile. She meant every word, he knew. "You want to foster?"
"Yes," she replied. "Emma's told me so many horror stories of her days in the system and if we could make even just one child's experience brighter, then I feel we will have done so much good."
Robin cupped her cheek. "You have the biggest heart of anyone I know, Regina Mills."
"I guess it was to match the size of yours," she replied, lying her hand on his chest. She then crinkled her nose. "Did I just say that?"
He chuckled as he nodded. "I'll make a hopeless romantic of you yet."
"I guess there are worst things to become." She laid back down and sighed as she stared up at the stars. Robin continued to watch her, thankful she had forgiven him and given him this second chance.
She yawned and he sighed. "I think it's time we turn in, lovely. If you want to sleep in your room so I don't wake you in the morning, that's fine."
"No," Regina replied, standing. "I like your bed. And you have your own bathroom. Very convenient right now."
Robin chuckled, understanding what she meant. "Good point. My room is your room. You are always welcome."
He stood and wrapped an arm around her. Together they headed to bed, pulling back the covers and climbing in. Regina squirmed a bit before she got comfortable, sighing as her body began to relax. He laid on his side next to her, smiling. "Good night, Regina."
"Good night, Robin."
Scooting closer, he placed his hand on her stomach. "Good night, little one."
"Good night, Robin," Regina repeated, sounding very amused. He grinned, leaving his hand there as he drifted off to sleep.
Friday started off very normally.
Regina loved it.
She did have some bouts of morning sickness, but she was starting to expect those now that she knew she was pregnant. As she laid curled up after a trip to the bathroom, she watched with partially open eyes as Robin dressed for the day. He decided to go casual, she noted, as he put on a green polo shirt and khakis. It was a good look for him, she thought.
He ran a brush through his hair and she longed to run her fingers through it as he leaned over her. She rose to meet his lips, giving him a goodbye kiss. "Have a good day," she told him.
"You too," he said. "Go back to sleep, lovely, and try to get some rest. You and Roland can sleep in."
She closed her eyes, feeling him kiss her forehead before he crept out of the room. Regina smiled as she drifted back off to sleep.
Roland woke her a few hours later when he crawled into bed and asked if she was hungry for breakfast. She smiled as she said she was. "Let's go see what Will is going to make us, hmm?"
Will made them French toast, sprinkling them with powdered sugar. Roland sipped at his orange juice while Regina had to settle for some tea. It was going to be a long eight months without coffee, she thought with a sigh.
She glanced over at Roland, who was swinging his feet as he ate his French toast. They both were still wearing their pajamas and it struck her that they looked more like a mother and son having a lazy morning together rather than a nanny with her charge. She liked it.
"What do you want to do today?" she asked him, taking a sip of her tea.
He thought about it, finger pressed against his cheek, before smiling. "Can we play outside? Please?"
"Of course," Regina replied, smiling. "That sounds like a perfect way to spend our day."
Roland cheered, pushing back his chair. "Can I be excused?"
She nodded. "Why don't you get dressed and I'll clean up?"
"I can clean up," Will offered as Roland hurried upstairs. He quickly grabbed the plate from Regina before she could stand from the table.
"You don't have to treat me like I'll break. Did you treat Marian like this when she was pregnant?" Regina glared at him.
He nodded. "She was just as stubborn about letting me help her. Until about the eighth month when her stomach was so large, she couldn't see anything. Then she finally gave in and let Robin and me wait on her hand and foot."
"Marian sounds like she and I had a lot in common," she replied softly.
"You did," he said. "And yet you have your differences. Robin loves you for you, though. You're not a replacement for Marian."
She smiled, knowing he spoke the truth. It was clear in Robin's eyes that he wasn't remembering what he once had. Instead, his eyes were clear and he saw her. Just her. "Thank you, Will."
"You're welcome." He then motioned toward the stairs with his head. "You best head upstairs and get changed before Roland comes down to find you still in your pajamas."
Regina hurried upstairs and opened her bedroom door to find Roland waiting on her bed for her. He was in a green t-shirt with khaki shorts and had his arms crossed. "You took forever talking with Will."
"It was not forever," she replied, pulling out an outfit for that day. "Can you wait for me in your room while I change?"
He sighed. "Okay. I'll go put on my sneakers."
"Good boy," she replied. "I'll be right there."
Regina pulled out a pale blue sleeveless shirt and some white capris. She changed quickly, though she struggled to close the button. Was she already starting to gain weight? Regina glanced at herself in the mirror but she didn't think she looked much different. She needed to pick up some books so she could understand all the transformations her body would be undergoing throughout the next eight months.
She slipped on her sneakers and went next door to get Roland, smiling brightly. "Ready for some summer fun?"
They spent the morning outside once Regina had lathered them both in sunscreen. "We don't want to get a sunburn, right?" she asked as she rubbed the white lotion over his arms.
He nodded and held still until she was done. Roland then grabbed his helmet, putting it on. "Can we go get my bike? Please?"
"Of course," she said, leading him over to where Robin stored the bikes. Together, they rolled Roland's blue one out and she watched as he hopped on. He gave her a big smile before pedaling away, going around Nottingham's giant circular driveway.
Regina reclined in a lounge chair, sipping the iced tea Will made her as she watched Roland. She waved every time he passed, sighing contentedly. Her hand drifted to her stomach as she thought that by the same time next year, there would be another child playing in Nottingham. She could see herself and Robin sitting on a picnic blanket, their young child trying to master crawling between them as Roland blew bubbles nearby.
It was the perfect tableau.
Roland rode around for about an hour before growing tired. "What else can we do?" he asked her.
"Why don't we go sit on the patio and you can draw for a bit?" she suggested. "Then we can see about lunch?"
He nodded, taking her hand again as she led him to the table. Regina retrieved his art supplies from the house, stopping for a moment when breakfast came back up after all. She groaned as she wiped her mouth, counting the days until the morning sickness went away.
The fresh air helped, though it was soon getting too hot for Regina to remain outside. She convinced Roland to relocate to the kitchen table and she made them peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch while Will hovered, much to her annoyance.
She set a plate down in front of Roland, looking at what appeared to be a card. "What are you making?"
"A get well soon card for Mr. Henry," he replied, coloring in a heart.
The answer tugged at her heartstrings as she sat down next to him. "He'll love it. I can give it to him today."
Roland hesitated before looking up at her with pleading eyes. "Can I give it to him?"
"Of course," she said. "Daddy will probably come here once he gets out of the hospital so you can give it to him then."
"I wanted him to have it today." Roland's eyes began to tear up.
She nodded. "Okay, then I'll take it with me when I go to the hospital later."
"Can I give it to him?" Roland asked. "Today? Please?"
Regina nearly dropped her sandwich. Since Roland's journey to her apartment a couple weeks before, he hadn't left Nottingham again. Taking his hand, she looked him in the eyes. "Are you sure?"
He nodded. "I want to visit Mr. Henry. You'll be there as will Papa. We'll all be safe together!"
"Okay," she said, surprised that he would want to go to a hospital. Then again, Marian had died in a plane crash, not sick in a hospital bed. Roland wouldn't have any negative associations with a hospital. "Okay, you can come with me later."
Roland cheered before finishing his card and she picked up her sandwich again, deciding this was progress.
Robin's intercom beeped and hit the flashing red button. "Yes, Johanna?"
"August is here to see you," she said. "Shall I let him in?"
"Yes, please. Thank you, Johanna." He released the button and stood as the door opened, revealing August. Robin approached him with his hand extended. "This is a surprise."
August chuckled, nodding. "I wanted to speak with you before the holiday weekend but I come in and find chaos. You really transferring all our holdings from Blanchard Financials?"
"Just sending them a message the best way I know how." Robin motioned for him to take a seat.
"You and a few others," he said, taking the seat. "I've heard Any Given Sundae, Hatter Industries and Midas Auction House are doing the same."
Robin sat up straighter. "Midas Auction House? Really?"
August nodded. "You sound surprised."
"I am," he replied. "This whole mess was really kick started by Chryseos Midas coming to me and accusing Regina of being a gold-digger who used Leopold Blanchard. Why would he join our little protest?"
"Well, I don't think it's that Midas," August replied.
Robin frowned. "What do you mean?"
"Midas Holdings has a lot of subsidiaries. Midas Auction House is operated now by his daughter, Kathryn. When I was gathering intel about Regina, I learned she and Kathryn were friendly when she was at Blanchard Financials. So Chryseos may be loyal to Leopold…"
"But Kathryn may still be loyal to Regina," Robin finished, smiling. He wondered if she knew how many friends she really had.
The door opened and Johanna poked her head in. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but Regina is here. And she's not alone."
Confusion filled Robin as he furrowed his brows. "What do you mean she's not alone?"
"Hi, Papa!" Roland poked his head in as well, grinning at him.
Robin's mouth fell open as he took in his son, standing in the doorway as if it were an everyday occurrence. He stood, approaching him. It felt like was living in a dream where time was warped. "Roland?"
"He wanted to give my father a get well soon card in person," Regina said, placing her hand on Roland's head. She smiled down at him fondly.
"You left the grounds," Robin said, still marveling at it. He had been so panicked about Roland's disappearance a couple weeks ago, it hadn't really hit him how momentous that had been—Roland had left the property for the first time in eighteen months. Here he was again, now standing in Robin's office for the first time since Christmas 2014.
"We have Sparky." Roland squeezed his beloved blue dragon before looking up at his beloved nanny. "And Regina's with me. So we're safe."
Falling to his knees, Robin engulfed his son in a hug. He held him close, fighting back tears of joy. "Yes, we are, my boy. Yes, we are."
He picked Roland up before standing, reaching for Regina. She stepped into his embrace and he held the two of them close. With the child growing inside her, Robin had his entire family in his arms.
It was a good feeling.
Regina glanced over his shoulder and then back at him. "Is that August?"
"Ah, yes," Robin said, pulling away as he motioned for his investigator to step forward. "Regina, August Booth. August, Regina Mills."
August held out his hand. "I apologize for the mess I've gotten you into."
"Well, it's not your fault." She gave Robin a pointed look and he chuckled.
Putting down Roland, Robin smiled at his son. "Regina, August and I have to talk about grown up things. Why don't you go with Johanna and visit some of the people I work with? They'll be thrilled to see you."
Roland hesitated, looking up at Regina. "You won't leave the building?"
"Not without you and Sparky," she promised him. It seemed to appease him and he took Johanna's hand, letting her lead him from the room.
Once the door was closed, Robin motioned for them to take seats. He rested his hand on the small of Regina's back. "Can I get you something, lovely?"
"I'm fine," she insisted, taking a seat. "Is this about Michael Tillman?"
August nodded. "I've been able to put together what happened to him after he was arrested eleven years ago."
Robin rested his hand on Regina's knee as a steely look came to her eyes. She nodded, sounding determined when she said: "Go on."
"Well, he went to prison," August said. "Couldn't afford a good lawyer like John, got stuck with someone from Legal Aid and so just took a plea deal. He was sentenced to three years but ended up serving almost ten."
"Ten? Why so long?" Regina asked, frowning.
He sighed. "From what I can tell, he tried to break out of prison…when his wife died."
Regina's stomach dropped and she pressed her hand to it. She thought she was going to throw up and not due to the pregnancy. "Died? From what?"
"Looks like pneumonia," August replied, pulling out a tablet to scroll through. "She was working a couple of jobs but neither gave her benefits. A state program covered the twins but she was without coverage. The neighbors thought she sounded bad but she kept waving them off. It wasn't until she collapsed in the stairwell did she finally agree to go to the hospital but by then it was too late."
Robin's stomach churned, understanding the despair Michael must've felt when he was told his wife had died. "He was trying to break out to get to his children, wasn't he?"
August nodded. "Twins Ava and Nicholas, born while their father was in prison. He got special permission to be at the birth but hardly saw them after that except in pictures Doria sent him."
"What happened to them after Doria died?" There was a hitch in Regina's voice and Robin took her hand, giving it a comforting kiss.
"Neither Doria nor Michael had family to take them in so they went into the system. From what I can tell they were shuffled from foster home to foster home," August replied.
Anger filled Robin. He knew Leo and Gold hadn't care who they hurt in their embezzling scheme and it seemed there were more victims besides Michael Tillman and Regina. They were monsters. "Are they still in the system?" he asked.
"Technically, yes," August replied. "According to children's services, they are placed with a foster family on the west side of Storybrooke. However, I found reports made by neighbors that state that the twins haven't been spotted there in a few months. But from what I can tell, Ava and Nicholas kept showing up to school, dressed in clean uniforms and with lunches as well as completed homework."
"So then they're still with the family. Maybe the neighbors just aren't paying attention as well as they think they are," Robin replied.
August shrugged. "Maybe. But I also know that Michael Tillman is now working at an automotive body shop nearby and is renting an apartment above the shop. The twins have been seen around there."
"They're living with their father," Regina said, realization in her eyes. "Why hasn't he petitioned the state to get them back?"
"Money. He can't afford a lawyer and I don't think he trusts Legal Aid," August replied. "Do you need me to find anything else?"
She shook her head. "I think…I think that's it. I know enough to know I ruined four lives."
"You didn't ruin four lives, Regina," Robin assured her, hating to see her beating herself up over this. "Leopold Blanchard messed with five lives. Doria Tillman unfortunately lost hers but it sounds like Michael Tillman is trying to put his back together just like you did."
"He shouldn't have to!" She stood and crossed to the window, staring out at the city around them.
He sighed, standing as he held out a hand to August. "Thanks for the info. Why don't you leave Michael Tillman's contact information with me? Then clock out early and go enjoy your holiday weekend."
August nodded, handing Robin a piece of paper before shaking his hand. "Have a good holiday weekend, Boss. You too, Regina. It was nice to meet you."
"You too," she said, hugging herself as she continued to stare out the window.
Once August was gone, Robin tucked Michael's information in his pocket as he approached Regina. She shook her head though, as if rejecting his comfort before he offered it. "Don't. I ruined a whole family. You don't have to fix my mess."
"I'm not fixing your mess. I hope to right an injustice served to Michael by Gold and Leopold." He rested his hands on her arms, massaging them gently.
When she still seemed hesitant, he then said: "There are two villains in this, Regina. Neither are in this room."
She scowled. "That's unfair. You're using my own words against me."
"Because they are the truth," he told her, leading her back to the chairs. He sat down, pulling her onto his life. "The fact you feel so guilty proves you are a decent human being, not that you are guilty."
"Michael Tillman may not see that way," she replied.
Robin nodded. "He may not. But I'm still going to reach out and try to help him. If he accepts or rejects—that's up to him."
"I guess you have a point." She kissed the side of his head as he continued to rub her back. "Thank you."
He kissed her. "No, thank you. A year ago, I never would've imagined that Roland would ever step in this building again. Now here he is. You've done wonders for us, Regina Mills.
"Now, I'm certain productivity has dropped considerably because no doubt most of my staff is crowding around my son," he said, helping her stand. "Let's go get him, hmm?"
She took his hand and they went to find where Roland had ended up. They found him in the cafeteria, sitting on a table as employees surrounded him. He basked in their attention, listening as they talked about how big he had gotten and how adorable he was. Robin was sure the cookies he was munching were a big incentive for his son to sit still for so long.
Roland's smile grew when he saw the two of them and he hopped off the table. "Papa! Regina!"
"My boy!" Robin pulled him close for a hug, noting that Roland almost came up to his stomach now. His son was growing up.
"Are you having fun with everyone?" Regina asked, bending down so she could look Roland in the eyes.
He nodded, eyes sparkling. "It's fun seeing everyone again! They keep telling me I'm all grown up. And Ms. Mulan told me to stop growing."
"He's growing too fast," Mulan replied, coming over to stand with them. She crossed her arms as she smiled down at him.
Robin sighed as Roland continued to chuckle. "I know. But he hasn't listened to me when I told him to stop. He insists on growing."
"I'm going to be big and strong like you!" he told his father. Robin's heart melted.
He ruffled his son's hair. "Yes, you are."
"Are we going to see Mr. Henry now?" Roland hopped from foot to foot in his excitement.
Regina chuckled. "Yes, we are. Why don't you say goodbye to everyone and we'll call to have Will bring the limo around?"
"Okay," he replied, taking her hand. "You'll come with me?"
"Of course," she said, letting him drag her back to the crowd of employees waiting to say goodbye to him.
Robin pulled out his phone, texting his friend as he also watched Roland say goodbye to everyone. Tink embraced Regina and the two women talked for a bit.
"Regina got him to leave the property at last," Mulan said softly.
He nodded. "She's safe to him. He thinks wherever she is, it's safe."
"He really loves her, doesn't he?"
"We both do," Robin replied. "Can you keep a secret?"
"Of course I can." Mulan leaned closer, looking eager to hear what he had to say.
He grinned. "Regina's pregnant. I'm going to be a father again."
Mulan blinked a few times before smiling. "Wow. Congratulations, Robin. You two must be over the moon."
"We are," he replied. "We just found out, though, so we haven't told a lot of people yet. I just wanted you to know, just in case…"
She nodded before giving him a gentle push. "I get it. Now, go get those two and head to the hospital. Have a happy Fourth of July."
"You two," he replied, hurrying over to get Regina and Roland so they could head down to the lobby to meet Will.
At the hospital, Henry's eyes lit up when Roland entered the room with them. Regina helped the boy climb onto the hospital bed, careful to avoid the wires and tubes attached to her father. Once settled next to Henry, Roland proudly showed him the card he made. Henry "oohed" and "ahhed" as he looked it over, praising the boy for his work.
Robin pulled Regina into his embrace, his hand gravitating toward her stomach. He held her close as he watched his son interact with her father. Tears pricked Robin's eyes again. His son, his baby boy, had left the property and had gone to multiple places. Roland was starting to heal.
It was truly a blessing.
Regina sat up in bed, pillow cushioning her back as she read What to Expect When You're Expecting. She had picked up a copy over the weekend but hadn't made much headway into it yet. With the morning still quiet, even with the sounds of Robin in the bathroom, she decided to get some reading done.
She heard the bathroom door open and a few seconds later, the bed dipped as Robin climbed back in. Regina turned a page as she felt her shirt get pushed up a bit and squirmed as his warm lips pressed a gentle kiss to her abdomen.
Lowering her book, she saw only Robin's hair as he continued to kiss and caress her stomach. "What are you doing?"
"Saying good morning to our child," he said, turning to face her. His smile faded as panic filled his eyes. "I'm sorry. Am I making you uncomfortable?"
"Just tickling me." When the panic failed to recede, she sighed and set the book aside. "It's okay, Robin. I'm okay with you kissing me…wherever."
He nodded. "But if you feel uncomfortable let me know. Don't think you can't. Okay?"
"I trust you," she told him, running her fingers through his hair. She then laid back down. "Go ahead. Continue."
Robin pressed his cheek against her stomach but kept facing her as he spoke to their unborn child. "You have the best mama, you know that?"
"And he has a great father, who is talking to him despite the fact his ears haven't formed yet," she teased.
He lifted his head, studying her. "He? Do you want a son?"
She bit her lip. "I…Yes, I've always wanted a son so I could name him after my father, you know?"
"I do," he replied, sitting up. "I guess…I'm hoping for a little girl. So I can have one of each."
Regina sat up straighter again, pressing her hand to her stomach. "Would you be upset if I have a son instead of a daughter?"
"What? No," he said, scooting over to sit next to her. "While I'm hoping for a daughter, it doesn't mean I'm going to love a son any less. I am going to love this child no matter what."
Tears pricked her eyes as fear filled her. "What if I am horrible to a daughter? What if I'm just like my mother?"
"Regina, look at me." Robin guided her head so she met his eyes and then pressed his hand to her cheek. "You are nothing like Cora and you will never be. I know you, Regina. You will do nothing but love and support this child, whether we have a boy or a girl."
She smiled, though uncertainty filled her heart. "How can you be so certain of me?"
He kissed her forehead. "Do you know why I picked you to be Roland's nanny?"
"Because Jefferson recommended me and probably begged you to give me a job so he didn't feel so bad about moving to Chicago?"
"Because Grace got on the phone and told me you were the best nanny ever," he said, kissing her forehead. "If you helped raise that girl, you can raise your own."
She leaned against him, smiling. "I guess you have a point."
"Look, I know I'm not going to convince you of anything right now," he continued. "But we have eight months and we can work on our anxieties together. How's that?"
"Your anxieties? You've done this before!" Her eyebrows went up as surprised filled her. What did he have to be nervous about?
"I was a nervous wreck before Roland was born," he confessed, rubbing the back of her hand with his thumb. "Marian was the calm one who kept assuring me I wasn't going to fuck up. I'm still not sure I'm not or that I won't with this one."
Regina raised her head and met his eyes again, noting the uncertainty in their blue depths. She gave him a soft smile. "You're a great father. There's no one else I would want to raise a child with."
He kissed her and she responded eagerly, wanting to enjoy every moment of it. When he pulled back, he bumped her nose. "I wouldn't want to have a baby with anyone else."
"Is there a baby in Regina's tummy?" Roland asked. They both looked over, finding him standing next to the bed in his pajamas. He looked at them with wide eyes and she thought he looked excited.
Robin glanced at her before picking the boy up. He settled Roland between them. "Yes, there is a baby in Regina's tummy. You're going to be a big brother next year."
Looking her over, Roland then turned back to Robin. "Does this mean that Regina can be my new mama now?"
Judging by his tone, Regina figured it was a question he had asked his father many times recently. Robin's exasperated and panicked face seemed to confirm that.
"Well, Roland, Regina and I are still nowhere close to marriage," he said. As Roland rolled his eyes and groaned, he continued: "Why don't you go get dressed and we'll all head downstairs for breakfast?"
Dejected, Roland left the room as Robin stood. Regina, though, remained on the bed. Her mind was spinning as she thought about Roland's request. Could she be his new mama now?
Her heart answered her: You're already his new mama.
"Regina? Is something wrong?" Robin asked, already changed into a blue and white striped polo and beige cargo shorts.
"How often has Roland asked you if I could be his new mama?" She scooted down to the edge of the bed, looking up at him as she sat there.
He sighed, sitting down next to her. Robin ran his hand through his hair. "Several. I've lost count. And it's only been a few months—since we told him we were dating."
"How do you feel about it?" She started to play with his hair as she watched his eyes cloud over.
Robin sighed. "I meant what I told you a few days ago. You've been so much more than just a nanny to Roland since you walked in our front door. You are already Roland's mama in many ways."
"I feel the same," she replied. "I'm not trying to replace Marian and there is no way he's going to forget her. I don't want to rush you…"
"Me? I don't want to rush you." He took her hand. "I don't want things to happen too fast."
She laughed. "I don't think we really have that option now, Robin. Everything is happening fast. We just have to hold on and ride out the wave."
"So what are you saying?" he asked, looking confused as if there were several options before them. And when Regina thought about it, there were.
"I'm not talking about marriage. You're right about us not being ready for that," she assured him. "You're also right that Roland and I are so much more than nanny and charge. We are mother and son. If you're okay with it, I would love to be his mother."
Robin kissed her hard, almost causing her to fall back on the bed. She wrapped her arms around his neck to steady herself, letting him pull her onto his lap. When he pulled back, he pressed his forehead to hers. Regina tried to look into his eyes but they were closed, so she asked: "Was that a yes?"
He laughed, opening his eyes to reveal tears forming in them. "It was a yes. I would love for you to be Roland's new mother. And I know he'll love it too."
She changed into a white hi-lo t-shirt and paired it with red capris. Robin laughed when he saw her outfit choice, including the blue blazer over her arm. "Feeling patriotic, love?"
"Absolutely," she said. She held out her hand. "Shall we?"
He took and they strolled down to Roland's room. He had changed into a red polo shirt and denim shorts but still looked dejected. Robin knelt next to him, explaining that he and Regina had talked it over. "We've agreed that even though we're not getting married just yet, she can be your new mama," he told the boy.
Roland's face lit up and he hugged her, though probably not as tightly as he wanted to because of the baby. She knelt and squeezed him hard, holding him as close as possible. "I love you, Mom," he said.
The title brought tears to her eyes. "I love you too, Roland," she sniffed. Both held onto each other for a little bit longer.
"I'm going to be the best big brother ever," he told her, still holding onto her.
She closed her eyes, laughing as she rubbed his back. "I know, sweetheart. You are going to be amazing."
When she pulled away, leaning on Robin's arm to stand up, Roland held onto her hand tightly. Robin placed his hand on her back and smiled at the two. "Come on. Let's go have some breakfast."
Robin's 4th of July barbeque was the biggest barbeque Regina had been to since her days as a student at the University of Maine. He, Will, Killian and John all took turns minding the grill and kept a steady stream of burgers, hot dogs and chicken coming out to the rest of them. Regina flitted between kitchen and backyard, replenishing the different salads as well as the pitchers of iced tea and lemonade.
Emma helped her as well, often trying to stop her whenever she saw Regina heading to the kitchen. "You should sit down and put your feet up," she said. "Or go play with the kids. Grace is so happy to see you."
The girl had sprinted toward Regina upon arrival at Nottingham, blonde hair flying behind her as Grace threw her arms around her former nanny. Regina held her close, marveling at how much she had grown in almost a year. Grace had then told her everything that had happened since she moved to Chicago and Regina listened intently, hanging on her every word.
Now, though, Grace was busy blowing bubbles with Roland as Belle supervised. Regina was glad to meet Grace's new nanny in person and was certain she had made the right choice. Belle was kind, intelligent and had a way about her that told Regina children just flocked to her.
As the two children chased after the bubbles, popping them before blowing more, Regina smiled at the sight. She then turned to Emma. "Grace is busy right now. And I'm fine. No swollen ankles yet."
"I'm just saying you don't have to do everything," Emma protested. "You can take a break. You're allowed."
"I agree. It's a party. Relax," Paul said, coming up with a tray in his hands. He smiled as he held it out them. "Deviled eggs?"
Regina took one look at them and her stomach turned. She barely excused herself before she was running into the house. Grabbing onto the counter, she leaned over the sink and dry heaved a bit. Nothing came up and she was grateful for that.
"Are you okay?" Vivienne asked, rubbing her back.
She nodded. "Yes, sorry. I just need a moment and then I'll join everyone again."
"Take your time." Vivienne leaned against the counter. "Still learning which foods set off the baby?"
Regina's eyes grew wide as she looked up at the woman. "Did Roland tell you? We made him promise to keep it a secret until we were ready to tell everyone…"
They were slowly revealing her pregnancy as she was just over a month along. She didn't want to jinx anything by talking about the baby too soon. Before the guests had arrived, she and Robin had explained it as best they could to Roland. He seemed to understand that he could only talk about his new baby brother and sister with them, Will, Emma and John for now. It seemed to deflate his spirits and they promised it wouldn't be too long before he could brag about being a big brother.
Vivienne laughed. "I've hardly seen my grandson. He's having too much fun with his friend and I'm not going to stop him. No, I just recognized that look and sprint. Congratulations, by the way."
"Thank you," Regina said before sighing. "This isn't how I wanted you to find out. I guess I thought Robin and I would take you and Paul out and tell you."
"You don't have to treat us special," Vivienne replied.
Regina took her hands. "Of course we do. You and Paul are still part of this family. Nothing is going to change that Marian was Roland's mother and you're his grandparents."
Vivienne hugged her and Regina cherished it as the woman whispered: "Thank you. But seriously, you don't have to walk on eggshells around us in fear that we might think you're tarnishing Marian's memory. Paul and I know nothing could be farther from the truth."
"Thank you," Regina whispered before pulling away. She leaned against the counter again. "I'm going to get some water. You can head back outside. I'll be fine."
"You sure?" Vivienne didn't look very convinced but after Regina swore she would be fine, the woman finally returned outside.
Regina poured some water into a glass as David entered the house. He smiled at her, though worry filled his eyes. She tilted her head. "Is Mary Margaret still not back?"
He shook his head. "And I found out where she really is."
"She's not with her college friend?"
"No," he said, shifting on his feet. "She'll probably kill me for telling you this, but I found she went to her father's."
Regina's blood froze and she struggled to keep breathing normally. "Well, that shouldn't be such a surprise. Their family company is in the middle of legal action."
"I think it's about you."
"Of course it's about me. I'm the one the company is pressing charges against."
He studied her, blue eyes boring into her. "No. There's something else. She came home the day before she left all flustered and refused to talk about it. I know it has to do with you but I'm not sure what."
Regina could only shrug. "I wish I could help, David. I'm sorry."
"No," he said, "I'm sorry, Regina. I…I heard what you said outside the courtroom the other day. Even though he's my future father-in-law…I believe you. And I'm sorry he did that to you."
She swallowed averting her eyes to stare at the wooden floor. "Are you going to tell Mary Margaret?"
"I think we both know that would break her. She idolizes her father."
Regina looked up. "Don't worry. She won't hear anything from me. I promise."
"I didn't think you'd want to keep reliving it anyway," he said. "Thank you, Regina."
She watched him leave as Robin entered, looking concerned. "Are you okay?"
"I'm fine. Just talking with David. And Vivienne. She knows by the way. Guessed I was pregnant after I sprinted in here from the sight of the deviled eggs," she said, leaning against him as he wrapped his arms around her.
Robin chuckled, kissing her head. "I should've known. She walked in, took one look at Marian and screamed that she was going to be a grandmother. Completely ruined our plans to reveal it."
"So she just has a sixth sense about these things." Regina let out a soft laugh. "It seems appropriate."
He rocked her gently. "Are you okay to eat? Because hamburgers are ready."
"Hamburgers sound delicious," she said, motioning toward the door. "Lead the way, good sir."
Nottingham was the perfect place to watch Storybrooke's 4th of July firework display. Robin put Roland on his shoulders and stood next to Jefferson, who had done the same with Grace. He glanced over to see Regina curled up on a lounge chair with Emma, the two friends watching the display light up the night sky with different colors. But Robin could just watch her, how her eyes lit up and how she smiled at each new firework.
Once the show was over, everyone began to drift off to their cars. Robin made alternate arrangements for those who had drunk too much and saw them off as Will saw that everything was cleaned properly. Paul and Vivienne were the last ones to leave as Killian was spending the night.
"You better get used to this," Emma told him. "Henry and I are moving in."
"What?" Killian asked as they disappeared upstairs.
Regina chuckled as she put the last of the glasses away. Will yawned as he stretched. "I'm gonna hit the hay. Good night."
"Have a good sleep," she said, rubbing her neck. She glanced around the kitchen for her boyfriend. "Robin? Robin, where are you?"
"In the living room, love," he called out.
Regina wandered in there, finding him at the stereo. She crossed her arms. "What are you doing?"
"I believe I'm still collecting on dances owed me," he replied, grinning at her. "If you're up to it…"
She took his outstretched hand and let him pull her close to him. Wrapping her arms around him, she laughed as Paul Anka's "(You're) Having My Baby" came over the speakers. "Really?" she asked.
"I'm schmaltzy and you love me for it," he replied, wrapping his arms around her waist.
"Yeah, I do." Regina laid her head on his shoulder. They swayed in time to the music together and for a few moments, it felt like they were the only ones in the world.
A/N: Why is Mary Margaret visiting her father? What does it mean for Regina? Find out in the next chapter!
I am so, so sorry for the delay in getting up this chapter. This is old news for those who follow my tumblr, but I had made it a priority to get up the Comfort Food Wedding before then focusing on my entry for the OQ Advent calendar. (If you haven't heard about it, you should check it out starting December 1st for lots of great Outlaw Queen goodies
I hope those who are American had a great Thanksgiving!
Robin returns on Sunday! I know I can't wait. How about you?
Also fingers crossed that I can finish the next chapter of Crown My Heart this week. I think you'll love it.
-Mac