A/N-Just wanted to say a huge thank you to all those who have read, reviewed, messaged, favored and followed this story all this time. This will be the last chapter of this story. Now after a little while, I do plan on doing a few follow up chapters as I see Robin and Regina's future going. I am so happy how many have enjoyed this story as I have had writing it.
Dedicated to all the OutlawQueen fans out there!
"Oh I love that name, Regina." Claire said as she wiped the tears from her cheeks. She turned to see Killian wiping one from his eyes as well.
"Killian, did I see what I though I did?" Robin asked.
"Just had some dust in my eye, that's all." Killian said.
"Right," Robin said as he went over to his friend and the two men gave a quick hug.
"Congrats, mate." Killian said. He was so happy for his best friend, who had a family now.
"What made you decide on her name?" Tink asked.
"Well, I've always loved the middle name. And as for the first name, it's what Robin has always shown me, he always had Faith in our love, and Faith in me. There was no other name I could choose but for this one." Regina answered as she looked down at her daughter's perfect face.
"That's a perfect choice for her name," Claire said.
"Okay, little Faith, your grandmother would like to hold you." Regina said as she handed Faith to Claire, Tink started taking pictures.
"Oh my little one, you are so precious. Your Daddy has been anxious for you to be here," Claire said as she looked from Faith to Robin and Regina. Claire started humming to Faith as Faith looked up at her.
"I think someone is liking their grandmother," Robin said. He smiled as he saw the happiness on his mom's face, holding his little girl.
"Here Killian," Claire said as she handed Faith to Killian. Killian took her into his arms, and rocked her back and forth.
"Why hello little lass, thank goodness you look like your beautiful mom." Killian said.
"On that we are in perfect agreement," Robin said as he looked at his best mate, holding his daughter.
"And when you get old enough, I'm taking you to your first hockey game. Oh lass, you're going to love it, we'll have drinks and anything you could want." Killian said.
"Killian, my daughter is only a matter of minutes old. Can we get her taking a bottle before you take her for drinks?" Regina asked.
"Don't worry, lass. I'll get us to that hockey game before you know it, you just trust your Uncle Killian," Killian whispered to Faith.
"Alright, my turn." Tink said as she was handed Faith. "Killian, take lots of pictures for me," Tink motioned to her phone, which Killian started taking pictures for her.
"Oh would you just look at her. Little Faith, the two of us are going to have a lot of fun times, I saw a little fairy costume the other day that I thought would just be perfect for you." Tink said. A moment later in walked a nurse. "Alright, I think the new parents need some more alone time with their little one."
"If you insist," Tink said as she handed Faith back to Regina.
"I am beyond delighted my darling girl," Claire said as she went to Regina and hugged her and kissed her forehead, and Faith's. "And you my precious boy, you have been given a very precious gift, cherish it always."
"I will mom," Robin said as he hugged his Mom, Killian was going to take Claire back to Robin and Regina's house to stay with a promise to be back tomorrow.
"Good job, mate. And excellent job, lass." Killian said as she bid them goodbye for now.
"Get some rest tonight, you've have a busy day." Tink said as she hugged them both before leaving. Now it was just Robin, Regina and little Faith in the room with a nurse.
"Are you planning on nursing her?" the nurse asked.
"Yes, I am." Regina said.
"Alright then, it's best if you try to breastfeed her now since you're alone now." the nurse said as she gave Regina some pointers on how to help position Faith correctly and encouraging Faith to latch on to Regina's nipple. She showed her how to keep Faith unclothed just a little so that they were skin to skin against Regina, so that Faith would cue to breastfeeding more often.
"Now you might have some tenderness in your nipples for the first few days, they won't get too damaged. A good latch is what creates comfortable breastfeeding for both of you. Make sure she's latched on the nipple and areola, otherwise it will definitely hurt." the nurse explained. She also explained how Regina should hold her breast for support, and not to panic if Faith seems to have trouble finding or staying on her nipple. That breastfeeding requires patience and lots of practice.
"How often should I try to nurse her?" Regina asked as she held her breast and cued Faith to latch on, after a few tries Faith latched on correctly and started sucking.
"Well the more you nurse, the more milk you'll produce. Nursing eight to twelve times every twenty four hours is pretty much on target. We recommend nursing according to a rigid schedule, whenever she shows early signs of hunger, such as increased alertness or activity, mouthing, or rooting around for your nipple. Crying is a late sign of hunger, ideally you should start feeling before she starts crying." the nurse explained.
"Is there anything I can do to help?" Robin asked, as the nurse just turned and raised her eyebrows at him, before laughing.
"Well, you can encourage your wife, making sure she is comfortable. Because breast feedings take some time, she might need a drink or a snack. Once the new mom and baby are home, you'll have to help with the housework, meals and such." the nurse explained as Robin nodded. "If you don't need me, I'm going to go check on another patient right now. Don't hesitate to use the buzzer." the nurse then left the room.
"How does it feel?" Robin asked once they were alone.
"Different, she's got a good grip on me right now." Regina said as Robin just sat there and watched his wife nourish their daughter. Robin laughed as Faith let out little startling noises. So this is it, he thought briefly. This is peace and happiness, a taste of it at least, a taste to reach for. Feelings surged hotly within him, the desire to protect against all odds, to hold his daughter, to hold Regina both with passion and tenderness. There had never been anything so beautiful in life as the sight of his wife cradling his child.
He touched her cheek as she fed their child. He smiled, then caught her hand and kissed it. They stared at each other for a long moment, and then Regina let out a startled "Oh! Take her Robin, she's sleeping already, and she really must be burped."
Robin swept the baby, casting her over his shoulder with ease. "Is this correct?" Robin asked.
"Yes, you're doing that quite well," Regina answered and indeed he did. The big business with all his nice suits, seemed completely at ease with the child upon his shoulders. Then the baby burped, and Regina laughed, and Robin playfully charged his daughter with insurrection for spitting up on her daddy.
"You're a natural," Regina said as Robin rocked their daughter in his arms.
"You think so?" Robin asked, until recently he had never held a baby and now to be holding his own.
"Very much so, she's falling asleep in your arms," Regina said watching as her daughter being held by Robin. She felt a tug at her heart again watching this scene in front of her, she had dreamed of this moment for such a long time. No moment had ever meant more to her right now, then seeing Robin holding Faith.
"How are you feeling?" Robin asked as he continued to rock Faith in his arms.
"Tired, but it was so worth it to have her here finally," Regina said as Robin gently placed the sleeping Faith back in Regina's arms.
"So perfect," Robin said as he let his finger touch the softness of their daughter's cheek. "She's absolutely perfect," He marveled at the tiny hands and delicate brow...the patch of dark hair that capped her head. His daughter. His eyes filled with love and admiration as he turned to his wife. Indeed he had been twiced blessed. He watched her cuddle the small bundle she held. He had witnessed her cost in giving such a precious gift. Robin leaned up and gently kissed Faith on the forehead.
"She's a heavy sleeper," Robin said.
"Now, she is. Until she was born, she was always moving around." Regina said. "Think we'll keep her?"
"Milady..." His lips brushed against hers. "You are my life. Know that from this moment on, the only thing in life that I shall cherish more than my children is you."
"I love you, Robin." Regina said.
"Sweetheart, I love you. I love you more at this moment than ever before," Robin said to Regina. "Thank you for giving me such a beautiful child."
Regina smiled. "You had something to do with it, as I recall."
Robin smiled too. "I could never live without you. Either of you."
Tears of happiness started to fall down her face, Regina said, "You'll never have to, darling. We could never live without as well."
Robin kissed her lips. "I'm the luckiest, happiest person on earth."
Regina's tired lids slipped low over her dark, shinning eyes. She said, "No, you're not. I am."
"You?" Robin said softly, a caress in his voice, brushing back a limp stand of dark hair off her cheek. "Why is that, sweetheart?"
Regina smiled, sighed and whispered tiredly, "Because you're mine. Both of you." Regina looked at Robin once more, before looking down at Faith, asleep in her arms. Robin watched as she started to fall asleep as well. He sighed softly, as he looked at his perfect little family. A few moments later, the nurse returned to their room.
"I need to take her back to the nursery," she told Robin who nodded. He picked up the sleeping Faith, noticing how Regina's arms tightened around her immediately. "I've got her, Regina." He whispered so that she let go. He kissed his daughter's forehead once more before handing Faith over to the nurse.
"You and your wife both need your sleep for awhile. I'll bring her back in a couple of hours," the nurse promised. She put Faith in the little buggy gently, and wheeled her to the nursery. Robin pulled out the couch for him to take a nap. Robin looked at Regina once more before he turned the lights down low, he laid down on the couch and put his head down on the pillow. His last thoughts were that he was a father, and he was determined to be the best father Faith could ever want.
A few hours later, Robin heard the room's door open and in walked the nurse. He quickly sat up and looked at her with concern on his face.
"Relax, Mr. Locksley, your daughter is doing just fine. I just need to check your wife's vitals," the nurse said with a smile as she checked on Regina.
"Has Faith been good?" Robin asked as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes.
"She has been an angel, a little worn out but then again it's been quite the big day for her," the nurse said with a slight chuckle. "Has your wife been sleeping?"
"Yes, yes we both have. I know I should have no right to, she's the one who did all the work," Robin said as the nurse smiled and nodded.
"And don't you ever forget it, Locksley," Regina said as Robin looked down at his wife's face to see her eyes opening.
"You just gave birth a few hours ago to our beautiful daughter and you're still sassying me," Robin said as he took her hand in his.
"I will always sass you," Regina said.
"I'll hold you to that," Robin said.
"Okay, so would anyone like to see a certain little lady?" the nurse asked as they both looked at her.
"Yes, please," Regina said as she sat up in the bed a little more. The nurse smiled and went to go get Faith.
"Is it bad that I already miss her?" Regina asked.
"I feel exactly the same way," Robin said as he kissed her on the lips before the door was opening and in walked the nurse bringing in Faith.
"Okay, here is momma," the nurse said as she handed the baby to Regina who took her immediately.
"Oh hi my little girl, I have missed you so much," Regina said as she kissed her daughter's forehead gently.
"I'll leave you be, if you need anything just call for me," the nurse said as Robin nodded and he exited the room.
"And Faith, just so you know you were missed by your daddy here as well," Robin said as Regina looked at him and smiled.
"You were missed by both of us," Regina corrected. She looked down at Faith who now had her bright blue eyes open. Regina had seen beautiful babies before, but Faith was the most beautiful baby she had ever seen. She knew she was thinking it might be because Faith was hers, she was theirs.
"Robin, can you sing for her?" Regina asked as Robin smiled as he looked down at first Regina, then Faith. He cleared his throat as he knew the perfect song to sing to her.
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday little Faith
Happy Birthday to you
"I think that was a perfect choice for her," Regina said as she began to nurse Faith. Robin just stood by the bed while Regina held their child, he was never going to get tired of this image. He was so grateful that those harpies had pretty much made him make a beeline for the terrace that night he had met Regina. He had a wife and a child to be extremely grateful for.
"Here, I think she wants to be held by her daddy now," Regina said as she handed Faith over to Robin who took her and just started to rock her slightly back and forth. Regina just watched at Robin with Faith, she loved watching the two most important people in her life in perfect happiness. Several minutes later the nurse came and took Faith back to the nursery, so that Regina could have some breakfast. Later she took a quick nap, while Robin made some phone calls, one to his mom and another to Killian. They both asked how Regina was and of course Faith, and when they would be coming home. Robin told them both hopefully tonight or tomorrow at the very latest.
There was a knock on the door, and in walked Jefferson. "Hey, bad time?" He asked as he stood at the door.
"Of course not, come in," Robin said. Jefferson smiled as he came in with flowers for Regina, and cup of real coffee for Robin. Who thanked him tremendously.
"How is she doing?" Jefferson asked as he motioned at Regina.
"Good, really good. She's just tired," Robin answered.
"And the littlest Locksley?" Jefferson asked.
"She is perfect, Jefferson. Just a little mini Regina, only sign is she has my blue eyes. Regina thinks also my smile," Robin said.
"And the little girl's name?" Jefferson asked.
"Faith, her name is Faith Noelle Locksley," Robin answered as Regina started to stir.
"That's a very pretty name for her," Jefferson said.
"Well, we're partial to it and her," Regina said as Jefferson went over to Regina's bedside.
"How are you feeling beautiful?" Jefferson asked.
"Sore, but doing good," Regina said.
"Well, I have to admit for someone who just gave birth, you look stunning," Jefferson said as he leaned down and gave a quick kiss to her forehead. "And these are for you," He handed her the flowers, which she got a good smell of and smiled. "And this is for your little girl." It was a little Tatty Teddy bear.
"Oh Jefferson, thank you so much. Will you stay? They should be bringing her by here before too long," Regina asked.
"Of course, I would love to see her," Jefferson said as he and Robin took a seat and chatted with Regina while they waited for Faith to be brought to them. Before long, the nurse was bringing her in. She was about to hand the baby to Regina when Regina spoke up.
"Would you hand Faith to Jefferson?" Regina asked as the nurse handed Faith to Jefferson, who smiled upon holding her for the first time. The nurse checked Regina's vitals and then left.
"Robin take a picture of them," Regina said as Robin took out his phone and snapped a few pictures of Jefferson holding Faith.
"Robin is right, she is a mini you Regina," Jefferson said. "She does have his eyes though."
"For which I'm grateful for, they are so beautiful, so clear. I hope they stay that way," Regina said.
"Jefferson would you take one of Regina and I with Faith, with the excitement I can't think if we have had our first family picture together?" Robin asked as Jefferson handed Faith to Regina, Robin moved to stand by Regina and Jefferson took several pictures of them.
"You look like a perfect little family, my friend," Jefferson said as he gave a quick hug to Regina.
"Thank you, Jefferson," Regina said as Faith started to get a little fussy. "Oh, she's ready to nurse."
"I was just about to leave, call me if you need anything, anything at all," Jefferson said as Robin walked him to the door while Regina fed Faith.
"Faith, you mean so much to me. I am going to try my best to be the very best mother you could ever want," Regina said. "I might fail at times, but where I fail your daddy will more than make up for."
"And where I may lack in something, my daughter," Robin said as he came back to them. "Your mommy will make up for in spades."
"I can't wait to take her home," Regina said.
"As soon as they give the say so, I'll be more than glad to bring both of my girls home," Robin promised.
Faith was able to stay with them longer this time, Robin and Regina took turns holding her. One taking pictures while the other was holding her, and then the other one holding her. Before too much longer, Regina's breakfast was being brought in and she was able to eat and the doctor examined her and told her she would get on the discharge papers for her as long as she felt like going home, which Regina was more than anxious to go home. Robin had to make a call to Killian for a special delivery, he needed Killian to bring Faith's baby car carrier so Robin could take them home later today. Killian promised he would be there within the hour, and called him when he was in the parking lot so that Robin could come down and together they put the carrier in Robin's Tahoe.
A couple of hours later, Regina was being pushed in a wheelchair by Robin, she had in her arms Faith. An aide accompanied them so that Robin could go get the Tahoe around, once he pulled it up front, Robin took Faith and placed her in the baby car carrier. The aide helped assist Regina into her seat while Robin went back to his, and then they were off.
"What are you smiling so big for?" Regina asked as she saw him driving with a huge smile on his face.
"Because this is our first car ride as a family," Robin answered.
"Well technically it is, since before she was in my belly," Regina said. Robin drove extra careful, he had always been a little on the speedy side but ever since Regina had come into his life and been in the vehicle with him, he had always been more careful. But with Faith being in the vehicle he was even more careful. Finally they were pulling into the driveway, where Killian and Claire were waiting for them, Claire helped Regina out while Killian helped Robin bring in their bags while Robin got Faith's baby carrier.
Regina went to the couch and gingerly sat down on the couch, Robin brought the carrier over to Regina and sat it right beside her.
"Seems like the little lass likes car rides, which may come in handy for you down the road," Killian said as he looked at his little god child, who was now beginning to wake up. Claire went to pick her up and started to rock her in her arms.
"I think someone is one very proud grandmother," Regina said as Robin sat down beside her and they sat there and watched their little girl being calmed back down by Claire.
"Do you mind in a few days if I bring over Ruby to see Faith?" Killian asked Robin and Regina.
"Of course not, please bring her over," Regina said with a knowing smile at Killian who just rolled his eyes at her.
"Alright, let me see if my old charms still work," Killian said as he went to Faith and picked her up. Faith evidently was amused with her Uncle Killian and just stared up at him.
"You know Killian, I think a few of those might do you good," Claire said.
"Heaven help me," Killian said. "I'm very happy for the both of you, and that I'm lucky enough to be your friend."
"Killian, we don't have friends. We have family," Robin said as Killian nodded and smiled lightly at them.
"Likewise," Killian said.
"Regina, why I help you upstairs and let you get some sleep since Faith seems to be out as well?" Robin asked.
"I think that's a great idea," Regina said as she gently got up with assistance from Robin. As Regina neared the stairs she started to regret that their bedroom was upstairs. Robin knew what she was thinking and gently picked her up and carried her up the stairs.
"You never need an excuse to carry me do you?" Regina asked.
"No, not at all. It's the very least I can do for the woman who gave me the most beautiful little girl ever," Robin said as he made the turn to go into their bedroom, he gently placed her on the bed.
"Promise me you'll bring Faith to me if she gets fussy, or if you bring her up to the nursery. I want to be with her when she goes to her room for the first time," Regina said.
"I will, Regina. I promise, now try to get some sleep," Robin said as he kissed her forehead, her eyes were heavy already and he knew she would be asleep in moments. He stayed with her, holding her hand until she was in a restful sleep. She looked so beautiful, he fell in love with her every day since he met her. It wasn't her looks that made him fall in love, it was her heart. How she showed him how to love someone more than your own life, and he had his mom and his best friend, but for Regina and Faith he would gladly die for either of them in a heartbeat, had almost lost his life because of his cousin, Brian. He loved her so much, because of her he had another person he loved and also loved him. His little girl, who at this moment was either being held by Killian or his mother.
He started to move from the bed, and felt Regina's hand clench around his hand even in her sleep. He smiled and leaned down and kissed her hand, he saw the small smile form on her face. He then gently removed his hand and walked out of the bedroom, closing the door gently behind him. He headed downstairs to find his daughter still being held in Killian's arms.
"Is my daughter becoming infatuated with you already?" Robin asked as he came up to Killian and Faith.
"Oh please, son. There is only one man who is going to hold Faith's attention and you know it," Claire said as she rolled her eyes at her son.
"Have I ever told you how smart you are mom?" Robin asked.
"Yes, but keep telling me son," Claire said as she hugged her son. "I'm so happy she's here, and that she is doing so good. And especially that Regina is doing good, I know it's a lot off your shoulders now that the birth is over."
"It feels like the weight of the world is off my shoulders now," Robin said. Finally their child was here, healthy. The bonus was that Regina had made it through the birth with no harm from it.
"So does this mean, you might be adding more to your brood?" Claire asked.
"My brood?" Robin asked.
"Do you think now you'll be adding more to your family son?" Claire asked.
"If Regina wants another child one day, I'll do everything I can do to help her with that," Robin said as Claire rolled her eyes at him.
"I have no doubt about that. You're not disappointed that you had a girl instead of a boy are you?" Claire asked.
"Are you kidding? I love my little girl, she's perfect and I could never ask for more than to be her father," Robin said. "I love the name Regina chose for her, it perfect for her."
"If you have a son one day, did you two ever decide what his name would be?" Claire asked.
"Yes, we discussed that one night," Robin said as he started to walk over to Killian holding a sleeping Faith now. "Roland, his name would have been Roland."
"Another fine name for a lad," Killian said as he looked down at Faith in his arms. "What do you think little Faith? You want a little brother one day named Roland?"
"Can I have my daughter back now?" Robin asked as Killian smiled and handed Faith back to Robin. Robin swayed back and forth, giving a rocking motion as he held Faith in his arms.
"Maybe one day you'll have siblings, my little one. But if you don't know, how much I adore you," Robin said as he handed upstairs with the sleeping Faith. He headed towards his bedroom with the sleeping Regina, he looked down at her.
"Regina," Robin whispered to Regina who stirred slightly, before waking up fully.
"Is she okay?" Regina asked as she sat up in the bed.
"She's fine, I think she needs to be put down for her nap in her crib," Robin said as Regina got up from the bed and Robin handed Faith to her. They made their way to Faith's room, where Regina placed Faith into the crib gently. They stood there watching her sleep for awhile before leaving the room, making sure the baby monitor was on before doing so. They went back to their room where Regina laid down again. He was going to bring them up some food to eat in their room.
"What about Claire and Killian?" Regina asked.
"They're fine, Killian is leaving to go see Ruby and Hannah. And mom is taking a nap right now," Robin said as he kissed her lips quickly. "I love you, Regina."
"I love you too, Robin," Regina said as Robin went back downstairs to see about getting them something to eat. Once he had their food ready he brought it back upstairs but found no sign of Regina. He looked in the bathroom but still no sign, he then knew where she was. He headed to the baby's room, standing in the doorway watching Regina nursing their daughter.
"She wake up?" Robin asked gently as Regina turned her head to see Robin standing there. He walked over and kneeled down beside Regina.
"A little. Thank you for making me a mommy," Regina said as she looked down at her daughter's perfect little face.
"It was my pleasure. Thank you for making me a daddy," Robin said as he took his hand and caressed Faith's little head as she continued to nurse. "Does it hurt when she does that?"
"No, not yet anyways," Regina answered. "Probably not until she has teeth, then it might become uncomfortable for me."
"Ouch, yeah I can see how that would not feel the best," Robin said.
"I'm sure it will be nothing compared to actually having her, but it was so worth it," Regina said as she continued to rock her daughter.
"I never have seen a more perfect image than the one in front of me now, you holding her," Robin said as he used the back of his hand to caress her cheek. Regina smiled as she looked at her husband than back at Faith.
"Now, if memory serves me right I thought you said the memory you liked the most was of our wedding day," Regina said as she teased him about that.
"Well, now I have the best of both worlds. My beautiful wife, and our perfect daughter," Robin said.
"So you think that we might have another one one day?" Regina asked.
"Well, that is up to you. If you want more kids one day, then I'll do my very best to help you with that. But if you don't wish to have more children, then I'm fine with that as well," Robin said. He truly was at peace with letting Regina make the decision about any more children.
"Well, holding her in my arms right now, I can't imagine not having more of her one day. A little brother or sister for her to play with and grow up with," Regina said.
"A younger brother to help chase away the boys," Robin said as he thought of the day again that he knew would come when his little girl started to date. A brother could help him in making sure the wrong boys stayed away. Matter of fact all boys, the more Robin thought of it.
"Robin," Regina said slowly. She could see his thoughts clearly on his face. He was already thinking of the day that Faith would bring home a boy that she liked. Robin was already an over protective father, and she knew she would have to reel him in or it would get worse one day.
"I know, I know, but I can't help it. I know what type of boys are out there these days," Robin said. He knew he was over-reacting, but this was his little girl he was talking about. Not just any little girl, but his little girl.
"Robin Locksley, your daughter is only two days old, she's not going to be dating anytime soon," Regina said.
"Just keep reminding me of that," Robin said. Regina had always been the calming force in their relationship and he knew he would need this as the years flew by and his daughter became a teenager.
"I will be, and so shall she I'm sure," Regina said.
"She's going to be just like her mother, I see," Robin said. He didn't care, as long as he had both these ladies in his life. Regina finished nursing Faith, and kept her in her arms, continuing to rock her for a few more moments.
There was a quiet knock on the nursery door, they both turned to see Tink standing in the doorway.
"Hey, is it a bad time?" Tink whispered lightly.
"Come in," Regina said as Tink came forward.
"Oh, she is so beautiful. I can't stop saying it," Tink said.
"Well Tink, I totally agree with you," Robin said. "But I'm kinda partial to her."
"But he's not bias at all," Regina said. "You want to hold her?"
"Are you kidding? Of course," Tink said as she took Faith from her Regina. "Hey little Faith, this is your favorite Auntie Tink, you and I are going to have lots of fun when you get a little older."
"I think she is liking her Auntie Tink a lot," Regina said as Faith was awake now and looking at Tink.
"Would you like to go lay down now?" Robin asked Regina, he could tell she was sleepy as well.
"Yes. Tink will you look after her till Robin gets back?" Regina asked as Tink nodded. Robin helped Regina to stand and helped her walk back to their bedroom. He helped her get settled back in their bed.
"Do you need the medicine that the doctor prescribed?" Robin asked. He knew she had to be in pain from the delivery.
"Yes, will you get me one pill? I don't want to take more than one right now till I see how I'm going to respond to it," Regina said as Robin got a glass of water for her and the medicine.
"Get some rest, I'll wake you up later," Robin said.
"Keep the baby monitor close to you," Regina said.
"Yes, Mom. I certainly will," Robin said with a smile. She was already such a caring mother. He never could imagine someone else as the mother of his children, children...was he going to be okay if Regina wanted more children? Did he? He found himself deciding that yes, he did. That was as long as Regina was okay with having more children. It would not remove the fear completely about Regina being in danger from childbirth, he knew he would always be worried about her regardless.
"Now go to sleep, my love," Robin said as he kissed her forehead and watched her drift off to sleep. He made his way back to see Tink still holding Faith, he came over and Tink carefully placed the sleeping Faith into Robin's arms, who kissed her forehead then placed her gently into the the crib. The two adults left the room quietly, and headed downstairs where Killian and Claire were talking.
"Is Regina resting?" Claire asked.
"Yes, she's exhausted," Robin answered.
"Good, I'm glad. She's going to need as much rest as she can get, but knowing her she'll push herself to the limit. It's going to be up to you son, to step in and don't let her overdo it too much," Claire said.
"I will, Mom. Now let's see about getting some dinner," Robin said as the four of them started cooking, well Killian being in charge of supervising the others cooking. Robin had to make a few calls to work, informing those who needed to know he would not be coming into the office anytime soon, and if they needed him to call him or Killian.
Later that day after Regina had woken up, they all had dinner downstairs with Regina constantly checking the baby monitor, Robin just smiled and put his hand over hers to reassure her that Faith was just fine. After dinner Claire excused herself and went up to check on Faith and then was going to turn in early.
"Well, I'm going to fly on out of here," Tink said as she hugged Regina. "But you call me if you need me for anything, don't even hesitate. I mean it now."
"We will, Tink. We promise," Regina said as Robin hugged Tink and escorted her to the door while Regina sat on the couch with Killian.
"You've done really good Regina. You've made my best mate a good husband and a better father than I thought he would ever turn out," Killian said.
"What do you mean?" Regina asked.
"Robin's father wasn't the greatest example for him growing up, but having Claire in his life helped Robin tremendously. But having you come into his life, you brought a light to his life that I never saw before," Killian said.
"Killian, did you get that from a hallmark movie or commercial?" Regina asked causing Killian to laugh.
"I mean it lass, and if it did come from a movie, so be it," Killian said.
"Thank you, Killian, for everything you have done for us," Regina said.
"Hey now, anytime lass," Killian said as he took her hand and kissed it lightly.
"Every time I turn my back, I find my best friend flirting with my wife," Robin said as he came back into the living room.
"Well it's your own fault actually," Killian said as he stood up.
"My fault? How is that exactly?" Robin asked as he sat down behind Regina on the couch, letting her lay back against him.
"Well, it's really quite simple actually," Killian said. "It's because you have such good tastes in women, well one in particular."
"Make that two," Robin said as he nodded his head upstairs to the sleeping Faith.
"You'll get no arguments from me, but thank goodness she takes after her gorgeous mother," Killian said.
"Will you still be flirting with my wife when we're all in our nineties?" Robin asked.
"Let me think..." Killian said as he tapped his chin with his forefinger before answering. "Yes."
"Figures," Robin said as Regina just sat there and laughed at her two favorite men in her life.
"See the lass likes the idea old chap," Killian said.
"She's humoring you Killian," Robin said.
"Good night, Killian," Regina said as Killian did a mock bow before leaving.
"Have I ever told you how glad I am that I found you on the balcony before Killian set eyes on you?" Robin asked.
"No, no I don't believe you ever have," Regina said as she caressed his arms with her hands as she leaned back into him more.
"Well I am now, I would hate to know that this gorgeous woman in my arms belonged to my best mate," Robin said.
"Oh so are you saying you would fight for me then?" Regina asked as Robin kissed the side of her forehead.
"With every fiber of my being, love," Robin said as their daughter took that moment to cry. Regina carefully got up and made her way upstairs to a crying Faith.
"Is she alright?" Robin said as he came up behind her.
"Yes, I think she just woke up and wanted her mommy and daddy," Regina said as she sat down with Faith in the rocker and started humming to her.
"Robin, sing for her and I'm sure she'll go back to sleep," Regina said.
"Here, let me have her," Robin said as he took Faith and started to sway with Faith. "I think it's time for my daughter and I to have our first dance." Robin cleared his throat as he started to sing to his daughter.
Back when I was a child
Before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high
And dance with my mother and me
And then
Spin me around 'till I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure
I was loved
If I could get another chance
Another walk
Another dance with him
I'd play a song that would never ever end
How I'd love love love
To dance with my father again
"Faith, I love dancing with your mother so much, and now to have you in my arms dancing just makes this all perfect," Robin said as Regina wiped a few tears from her eyes, watching Robin dancing with their little girl. After a little while, they headed to bed for the night, Regina ever in momma mode, had the baby monitor right beside her, and after hearing Faith a few times, went to check on her before Robin could even get out of the bed. This went on for two more nights, until Regina had worn herself out, Robin had to step in then.
"Regina, I'm in this with you, you can't wear yourself out like this," Robin said as they were getting ready for bed that night.
"But, she's my daughter," Regina knew she was not sounding reasonable at the moment.
"She's my daughter too, and don't ever forget that you've got yourself a partner. Someone to lean on when you need to, and there is nothing wrong with letting someone step in and help you," Robin said firmly but gently.
"Alright you're right. You're on diaper duty, fussy duty and there is some of my milk in the refrigerator when she;s hungry," Regina said as she got in the bed.
"Regina," Robin said gently as he slid into bed beside her. "I know this is hard on you but I just don't want you so worn down love." Robin said.
"I know, I just wanted to be super mom to Faith," Regina said as she hated being this hormonal.
"You are super mom, sweetheart. You're the best mommy, our little girl could ever ask for," Robin said as he kissed her lips softly.
"I have been over-doing it just a tad haven't I?" Regina asked.
"Just a little, but you rest tonight. Daddy Robin is on patrol tonight," Robin said as a few hours later, he was up getting a bottle for Faith. An hour later he was changing her diaper.
"What is your Mommy feeding you?" Robin asked jokingly. He had to admit there was no stronger thing that could wake him up then a messy diaper at four in the morning. An hour later he returned to the baby's room and was rocking Faith back to sleep. Another hour later he was feeding her again. By seven in the morning, Robin gave up and just stayed in the nursery. And that was where Regina found him, sound asleep, in the rocking chair holding Faith. His head was laid back and his mouth was open, the poor man was exhausted beyond measure.
Regina quickly went and got her phone and took several pictures of this moment, between Robin and Faith, knowing they would come in handy one day in the future.
"Is he asleep?" Claire asked as she came up to Regina.
"Sound asleep, not sure which one is more worn out at the moment," Regina said.
"I got up a few times and got her back to sleep before Robin made it in there, poor man," Claire said as Regina went over and carefully woke up Robin who yawned big.
"Good morning," Robin said as Regina took their daughter from him and carefully placed her back in her crib.
"Rough night?" Regina asked
"Noooo," Robin yawned out in an answer to her question. "I'm good, I can keep going."
"Ah, but remember we're partners in this," Regina said.
"Touche`" Robin said as he stood up and stretched, Regina smiled as she heard his bones cracking, showing how tired he really was.
"Why don't you go to bed and grab a few hours of sleep?" Regina said.
"No, no I'm good," Robin said.
"Robin, go to sleep," Regina said as she placed her hands on his cheeks.
"Alright, just for a little while. Wake me up if you need me," Robin said as he slowly made his way to their bedroom. Regina checked on Faith and then went to check on Robin, both of them were sound asleep.
"Is he in bed now?" Claire asked as they made their way downstairs.
"Yes, he needs to sleep for a few hours, like I did last night," Regina said.
"I agree, now let's get you some breakfast," Claire said as she fixed breakfast for Regina. An hour later, she was back upstairs to get Faith and brought her downstairs. She placed her in her baby carrier and watched her till she went back to sleep. While Robin was still sleeping, Ruby and Killian came over and saw the baby.
"Regina, she is just beautiful," Ruby said.
"Thank you Ruby, we are kinda crazy about her," Regina said. "And Killian has just been the best uncle to her already. Kinda makes me think that he would like a few of his own one day." Regina said with a wink to Killian.
"Thanks, Regina," Killian said under his breath. He then made his way upstairs to 'wake up' his best friend. He opened the door and saw Robin still asleep, he had brought up some ice water in a large glass and put it over Robin's head.
"WAKE UP SLEEPY HEAD!" Killian said as he dumped the ice water over Robin's head, waking him up immediately.
"What the hell Killian?" Robin said as he had chills in places he didn't know he had places.
"Serves you right," Killian said as he ran out of the room with Robin following behind him, down the stairs and into the living room.
"Boys, boys!" Regina said effectively putting a stop to them antics.
"Awww mom!" Robin and Killian said at the same time. Regina just rolled her eyes at them both, as they sat down and enjoyed some lunch together, Robin and Killian being on their best behavior, well as close as can be.
One week, Regina was taken out by Tink for a girl's day out, leaving Robin at the house with Faith. Luckily for him he had back ups, with Killian and even Jefferson there.
"So it's three grown men against one little baby, how bad can we screw this up?" Killian asked as an hour later, all three men were covered in food and spit up. Faith was screaming at the top of her lungs, none of the three men could calm her down. Robin was at his wits end, about to call Regina back home, when an idea hit him.
"You're joking right?" Killian asked his best friend.
"I know we're new friends, but this is asking a lot," Jefferson said.
"Look, I know this isn't going to be easy but I know both of you two can do this with me," Robin said as they circled around Faith's crib and leaned down and proceeded to...sing-
Goodnight, sweetheart, well it's time to go,
Goodnight, sweetheart, well it's time to go,
I hate to leave you, but I really must say,
Goodnight, sweetheart, goodnight.
Goodnight, sweetheart, well it's time to go,
Goodnight, sweetheart, well it's time to go,
I hate to leave you, but I really must say,
Goodnight, sweetheart, goodnight.
Well, it's three o'clock in the morning,
And baby, I just can't do right,
Well, I hate to leave you, baby,
I don't mean maybe, because I love you so.
Do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do
Goodnight, sweetheart, well it's time to go,
(Do-do-do-do-do)
Goodnight, sweetheart, well it's time to go,
(Ba-do ba-do)
I hate to leave you, but I really must say,
Goodnight, sweetheart, goodnight.
Robin breathed a sigh of relief as Faith was finally asleep, the three men stood there looking down at her.
"If you ever tell anyone about this Robin, I swear-" Killian whispered quietly.
"This is madness," Jefferson said as he rolled his eyes.
"Well, it worked, so both of you shut up," Robin said.
Unbeknownst to the three men, Regina stood just in the hallway with her phone, recording the whole episode. She was thinking this would come in handy at another time.
The weeks flew by and Faith had her checkups, and the doctor was quite pleased with how good Faith was doing. And before long it was father's day and Regina woke up Robin to a home made breakfast and a special present for him from her and Faith. Regina sat on the bed while Robin opened his gifts.
The first one was very heavy and Robin's eyes went wide upon seeing it. "Regina, where did this come from?"
"When we were back in Ireland, I saw one in a store and had them ship it over here," Regina said as she saw the look on his face at his new crossbow. There was also an inscription on the side of it 'Robin of Locksley'.
"I love it sweetheart, thank you," Robin said as he kissed her lips as he opened the other one from Faith. He opened it and smiled upon seeing it, it held a tshirt of world's greatest dad, as well as picture box of an imprint of Faith's hand and her little foot, and in between the imprints was the words, I love my Daddy.
"There's one more thing as well," Regina said as she gave him one more present, he tore it open and smiled upon seeing a picture frame of Regina holding Faith from a professional photographer.
"Regina, when did you do this?" Robin asked.
"When you went to the office for a few hours, we had it done," Regina said."Do you like it?"
"Are you kidding? I love it so much, my two favorite girls in all the world," Robin said as he kissed Faith's little hand. "Thank you my little girl. Your Daddy loves you so much."
Faith let out a little yell as she waved her arms, causing Robin and Regina to laugh at their little girl. The rest of the day, Robin was waited on, he had a golf day with Killian at the country club before coming home to Regina's having cooked him a home made meal for them.
"You've made this father's day very special for me, my love," Robin said as the three of them were on the couch watching television.
"Just remember mother's day next year," Regina said playfully.
"Oh, I will. You can count on that," Robin said as he already started making plans in his head for Regina's first Mother's Day. He looked at her, with love in his eyes. Motherhood, had brought a new radiance to Regina's features, she was already a very stunning woman, now she was completely breathtaking to him.
"She's lovely," Robin said as they looked down at their daughter. "She looks more like you every day."
Of all the surprises about Robin, and it seemed there was an endless supply, the greatest was his absorption with his daughter. Regina had known he would be an involved father, but he had gone above and beyond in that department. Often Robin would tuck her in the crook of his arm and parade her before their guests as if a baby were a lovely miracle non of them had ever seen before. He thought her prodigiously clever for holding his finger, for kicking her legs, for making adorable sounds, for doing all the things that babies usually did...except that his opinion his daughter did them far better.
"Have several more children," Tink had advised her one day. "so that his attention will be divided among them. Otherwise he'll ruin this one."
Regina didn't completely understand the reason for his behavior until a recent afternoon, when she had stood with him over the cradle to watch their sleeping daughter. Robin had taken Regina's hand in his and brought it to his lips. "You're my heart," he had murmured. "You've given me more happiness than I have a right to. But she..." He glanced down at Faith wonderingly. "She's my own flesh and blood."
Moved by the words, she tightened his fingers and nestled against him. "Now you have a family." she had said softly.
Bringing her mind back to the present, Regina answered Robin's earlier comment. "Faith her blue eyes, your mouth and chin, your dimples and you say she looks like me?"
"She had your nose, your beauty, and your hair, "Robin pointed out. "And your temperament."
Regina laughed, standing up and folding a light blanket into a neat square. "I suppose it's my temperament when she wakes our household in the middle of the night with her screaming?"
Robin advanced on her unexpectedly and cornered her against the wall. "Well, now," he murmured, "in the past you've been known to raise the roof a time or two, haven't you?"
Their gazes locked in an electric moment. Thoroughly disconcerted, Regina blushed deeply. Giving Robin, a reproving frown, she ducked beneath his arm and fled, hurrying to the safety of their bedroom. He followed close behind her.
They hadn't made love since well before the baby's birth, and to Robin's credit, he had been patient. Extraordinarily so, considering his strong physical appetites. Although the doctor had indicated that she had fully healed from the birth and ready to resume marital relations, Regina had managed to put off Robin with gentle refusals. Lately, however, she had been the recipient of intense glances that warned she wouldn't be getting much sleep at night.
"Robin," she said with a pleading smile, "perhaps later-"
"What's wrong, Regina?" Robin said. Her sexual desires for him had never wavered, that is until after their daughter's birth. The doctor had said she was fully healed and he was trying to understand what was going on in her mind. "Is it a physical problem? Is it something I've done, or-"
"No." She said swiftly. "None of those things."
"Then what?" Robin asked.
Fiercely Regina concentrated on the fabric of her sleeve. She could find no way to explain her reluctance to him. She had gone through so many changes...She was a mother no...She wasn't certain that making love with him would be the same at all, and she didn't want to find out. She was afraid of disappointing him, and herself, and it was easier to keep putting off the event than to face it. She shrugged lamely. "I'm afraid it won't be the same as before."
Robin was very quiet, absorbing the statement. His hand settled on the back of her neck in a gesture that Regina thought was meant to be consoling. Instead he gripped her nape and pulled her against him, his mouth coming down firmly on hers. She gasped in surprise as he brought her hand down between his thighs. He was as hard as iron, throbbing at her touch.
"There." He pressed her hand tighter. "Do you feel that? That's what you do to me, I ache for you. I don't care if it's not the same as before. Regina, I've missed you...holding you like this..."
Regina gathered her courage and started to undress herself in front of him, her body was almost back into the shape as before the pregnancy, but she was still aware that it wasn't. She had wanted him, but had been so afraid that their lovemaking would be entirely different now.
Robin removed his clothes and together they got on the bed, he kissed her with gentle greed, savoring her mouth with long, deep forays of his tongue. She stirred in awakening desire, clasping him closer. To her amazement, a few milky drops seeped from her breasts. Pulling away from him, she made a move to grab a few tissues from the bedside table. But Robin stopped her, he pushed her shoulders down and bent over her breasts. His breath flowed in deep gusts as he stared at her. The moist nipples were a darker pink than before, surrounded by delicate tracing of veins. The lushly maternal sight sent a wave of aching excitement through him. He touched the tip of her breast with his tongue, teasing and circling, then fastening his lips over the tautness. Gently he started to pull with his mouth.
"Robin," Regina breathed out as she felt a tingling ache in her breast.
She gave a breathless moan, caught beneath him as he drew a surge of milk from her body. A demanding pulse began low inside her. He stayed at her breast, his hand cupping underneath the plump roundness, and then he moved to the other. Finally she tangled her fingers in his brown hair and pulled him up, her mouth seeking his. They tangled together, rolling once, twice, across the bed, hands searching with increasing urgency, legs wrapping and twining around each other.
At last, when he slid deep inside her, the both gasped and went still, trying to preserve the moment of oneness. Regina drew her palms slowly from his shoulders down to the tops of his thighs, relishing the powerful length of his body. Robin shivered in bliss and moved against her. She arched languidly, and they begand a slow rhythm, drifting in a current of warmth.
"You were right," Robin whispered, shaping his hands over her body, imprinting sweet, hot kisses against her skin. "It's not the same as before...It's even better. Gods...the things you do to me." He thrust more strongly, unable to restrain his movements. Regina clenched her hands and pressed her fists against his back, her body tightening exquisitely. He stared into her eyes, gritting his teeth in the effort to contain his pleasure. She wrapped her legs around his hips and urged him to thrust even harder. Afraid of hurting her, he tried to hold back, but she drove him with her own demanding passion, until he let the tumultuous storm overtake him. His smothered cry followed hers, and together they flowed into the swirling tide of fulfillment, bound together by flesh and spirit, in perfect accord.
Afterward they lay together dreamily, letting hours drift by and pretending that time had stopped. Regina draped herself over his chest, tracing his features with her fingertips.
"I love you, Regina," Robin whispered to her. He was in utter content.
"I know, and I love you," Regina said back as they fell asleep in each other's arms, Regina only leaving his arms to go feed their daughter.
A few days later, Robin was coming up the staircase heading to the nursery to look for Regina. He was about to call out her name when he could hear her voice talking to their daughter. He slowly made his way to the open door and looked in at Regina rocking their daughter, she was reading a book of nursery rhymes. He leaned up against the door and just stood there and listened to her with a huge smile on his face.
Regina was looking down at her daughter's perfect face and began speaking a favorite nursery rhyme of hers. "Once upon a time, there was a Queen and she cast a glorious curse that gave her everything she wanted, or so she thought,"
And they lived happily ever after...
The End.