A/N: Christmas is extended! Join Regina as her wish starts to come true and she gets her first chance at a happy ending. This is based on the movie One Royal Holiday and the song for this chapter is "The Christmas Waltz."
Enjoy!
-Mac
Chapter 1: One Royal Holiday
Regina woke up in her bed and stretched out, feeling nice and warm. She sighed, content until she heard someone moving around outside her hallway. Confused, she sat up as she called out: "Henry, is that you?"
She pushed the blankets back and climbed out of bed, surprised when she looked down at what she was wearing. Rather than the navy silk pajamas she knew she had gone to bed in the night before, she was now wearing soft red and black pajamas. "What the fuck?" she muttered, wondering if she had started sleepwalking.
Footsteps in the hallway reminded her that she was not alone and her heart hammered in her chest as she now wondered if someone had broken into her house. If so, had they changed her into these pajamas? How did they do it without waking her? And why would they do this to her?
Regina tried to conjure up a fireball as she approached the door but nothing happened. She paused and found that the familiar thrum of her magic in her veins was gone. Whatever or whoever had changed her pajamas had also taken her magic as well. That put her in a more heightened state and she worried Henry was in danger whether he was home or not. Her heart jumped into her throat as she wrenched the door open and jumped out into the hallway. "Henry!"
"When did you start calling me by my name?"
The voice made Regina freeze before she slowly turned. Standing at the end of the hallway, looking confused but very much alive, was her father. He was dressed in a flannel shirt paired with a nice pair of pants and he smiled softly at her.
"Daddy?" she asked, her heart skipping a beat as tears filled her eyes. She rushed toward him and threw her arms around him, hugging him tightly. "I missed you."
"You only saw me last night," he told her, though he hugged her just as tightly.
She tried not to sniff as she said: "It just feels like longer."
He chuckled, pulling away from her as he said: "Now you know how I feel with you living far away in Boston."
"Boston…" She trailed off, even more confused. Why was her father alive? And why did he think she lived in Boston?
Daddy gently bopped her nose. "I know, I know. Boston has the best hospitals in the country but I wish you would come be a nurse here in Storybrooke General so you can live closer to home."
A nurse in Boston? Regina felt very lost and decided to play along for now until she could figure out what was going on. "Storybrooke General is great but it just can't compete with Boston," she said, feeling that was something she would say in whatever reality she had been taken to.
"Well, you're here now," he replied. "And I have some news. We were hit with another snowstorm last night and the streets are still being plowed. I've informed Queen Eugenia and Prince Robin that they will need to stay another night."
"Queen Eugenia and Prince Robin," Regina echoed, feeling dazed as her mind tried to process even more confusing information.
"Yes. Our guests from Sherwood," Daddy said slowly. He looked concerned as he asked: "Are you okay, sweetheart?"
She quickly found an excuse as she insisted: "I'm fine, just some morning fog."
He chuckled, nodding. "Right. You haven't had your morning coffee yet."
"I know I'm not very coherent before my first cup of coffee either."
Regina froze at that voice. It had been too long since she had last heard it outside her dreams and she hoped that explained what was happening as she slowly turned toward the other end of the hall. Robin stood there, alive and well, and she almost started crying again.
As she took him in, she knew it wasn't a dream. When she dreamed of him, Robin always looked like he did during their final days together. He wore a gray t-shirt paired with a gray zip-up hoodie and green leather jacket as well as gray jeans and brown boots. There was also the red scarf they tended to steal from each other, the one currently under her pillow because it smelled like him. Dream Robin always seemed frozen in a moment of time, never changing no matter what happened around them in the dream.
This Robin was dressed more formally in a white button-down shirt under a green sweater paired with brown slacks. While she loved the clothes he preferred in her real Storybrooke, she had to admit that he looked very dashing in this outfit. But most of all, she loved how he still looked like himself with his thick blond hair and scruff covering his cheek. His blue eyes held the same warmth and affection as always and when he smiled, she saw those dimples that made her stomach do flips.
Daddy chuckled, reminding her they were not alone. He addressed Robin as he said: "We need to get coffee into her now."
"I agree," Robin said, stepping closer with his hands behind his back. "May I escort you to the dining room, milady?"
She glanced down at her pajamas, recalling that they were likely still strangers in this place - and he was a prince, no less. Regina's cheeks heated up as she slowly backed toward her bedroom door. "I think I should change first. I'll meet everyone down there," she said.
"Alright, sweetheart," Daddy replied. "We'll see you in the dining room."
He and Robin walked away as Regina darted back into her room. She closed the door behind her and pressed her back to it, her mind racing as she tried to figure out what was going on. This felt more real than a dream and wasn't as disjointed as her dreams usually were so her best guess was that there was some sort of magic at work, even if she didn't have hers. But who cast this spell and what was the purpose? Why was her father alive? Why was Robin alive and a prince? And why was she a nurse in Boston?
She wished she had her magic books but she had a feeling they hadn't made into whatever alternate universe this was.
"Okay, Regina," she said, not caring that she was talking to herself. "You don't know what's going on and if this is a trap or not. So you need to keep your wits about you. Just play along until you can figure out what's going on."
Feeling better now that she had some semblance of a plan, Regina approached her closet and opened the door. She let out a soft groan when she saw that all her pantsuits and business dresses were gone. Instead, there were a lot of sweater dresses and more casual wear. "Well, you're a nurse. You probably want to dress casual when you're not in scrubs," she reasoned, pulling out a gray sweater dress.
She was just going to have to make the most of it.
Regina put on the dress and found gray leggings to match as well as black boots. As she sat down at her vanity, she frowned when she caught sight of herself. Despite just waking up, her hair was perfectly done and she swore she was even wearing some light makeup. "What the fuck?" she asked.
Things got even weirder when she picked up her brush. She ran it through her hair and when she was done, her hair had magically put itself into an elegant twist. Regina blinked a couple times before realizing that her makeup had also changed on its own. Whatever magic was at play, it was certainly powerful. She filed this detail away to help her figure out things later.
For now, she was needed in the dining room.
It was showtime.
By the time night fell again, Regina not only was still as confused as ever but couldn't shake the feeling of deja vu that had been following her around all day.
She had discovered that Queen Eugenia was really Granny though without the sass Regina always admired the older woman for having while David was their chief of security. Unsurprisingly, Snow White - or Mary Margaret - showed up and was making eyes at him while supposedly there to see Regina, who was apparently her best friend. Mary Margaret was also the mayor and Regina had to bite back the laugh that rose up when she heard that, recalling how poorly that went in real Storybrooke. But it seemed this Mary Margaret was a good mayor and was eager to prove she could carry on with the town's long-running traditions.
The Robin in this reality really threw her off-kilter. He tended to keep to himself and was very serious, focused on his duties as the prince of Sherwood even though he was stuck in Maine due to snow. Robin barely left his room except for meals where Granny and Regina tried to convince him to relax and not work so hard. It felt odd to Regina to advocate for that - she knew that she would likely be the one keeping away from others and busy working. But there was a force inside her that made her more optimistic and more fun-loving than she usually was. She figured it was part of the spell though she couldn't figure out why.
Until after dinner.
Robin tried to leave but Regina found herself blurting out that it was time for the Christmas parade in town and he had to come experience it. Daddy echoed her sentiments and Granny begged her son to take a break from writing his speech to come to the parade. She told him it could help him and so he reluctantly agreed. They all separated to change into warmer clothes and agreed to meet in the lobby - Regina had also learned her house was a bed and breakfast her family runs in this world.
She pulled on a nice red coat that seemed more her real style but scowled when she found boots that were more comfortable than stylish. Regina pulled them on and headed down to join everyone else. When she saw Robin's shiny black dress shoes, she found herself commenting how his feet were going to get cold. He insisted he would be fine and they all headed to the parade, having to walk due to the snow. By the time they arrived at Main Street, she could already sense Robin's discomfort.
Mary Margaret then asked Regina and Robin to bring some last-minute gifts to Santa's sleigh. They did so and Regina explained that the gifts were for children in the hospital so they could still have a Merry Christmas. Robin softened up at that, proving he still had his kind and generous heart under the formal and serious exterior.
It was comforting.
They returned to stand with the others as Mary Margaret led the Christmas parade. Several floats were driven down Main Street, sponsored by different businesses and the local school. Regina had a dim recollection of working on a float when she was in high school before reminding herself that she did not go to high school. The spell was starting to mess with her memories.
Santa ended the parade, following the town's old-fashioned fire engine that was now only used for parades. He waved at everyone gathered and joy bubbled up through Regina as she waved back. This was the feeling she had been missing throughout the holiday season and she was glad to experience it, even if it was because of a spell.
Once Santa had passed, everyone started to return home. Daddy invited their party - including Mary Margaret - to return back to their inn for cookies and hot chocolate. Robin grimaced at that point and Regina asked if he was alright. He then admitted that she had been right about his footwear and that his feet were so cold, he couldn't feel them anymore.
Daddy waved someone down and a horse-drawn carriage pulled up next to him. He asked the driver to take Robin back to the bed and breakfast and asked Queen Eugenia if she wanted to go as well. She politely declined so it was decided Regina would go as well. Before she could say anything, she found herself sitting next to Robin in the carriage with a blanket over their legs as the horse started to walk toward her house.
As they made the journey, Robin admitted that she was right and then apologized for his attitude the past couple days. He told her that he was anxious about being away from Sherwood in the days leading up to Christmas because his schedule was supposed to be full of his country's Christmas traditions. He explained that it was his second year overseeing them after his father had passed away and that he hadn't done a very good job the year before, especially the annual Christmas Eve address to the people of Sherwood. The press and his people had deemed him too dour for Christmas and had been really harping on it as they approached this Christmas, which he had hoped would be his redemption.
That also struck Regina as familiar and she tried to figure out why as she asked about Sherwood's Christmas traditions. He told them about them and she was less than impressed. It seemed to be a series of boring, pompous and overly formal events that were really designed for diplomacy rather than true celebrations. She could see why the address was very important to the people - it was likely the only time they felt the royal family was truly celebrating with them and cared about them.
When Regina voiced that, the change in Robin was immediate. His face grew flushed as he went on about how much he loved Sherwood and the people, words pouring out of him. Once again, she was reminded of her Robin and moved a little closer to be nearer to him. She still wasn't too sure what magic was exactly at play but she was going to treasure these moments with some version of Robin for as long as she could.
As the carriage rounded a corner, Robin's tirade ended and he panted. She placed her hand on his leg - over the blanket - and told him that what he had just told her was what he needed to tell the people - though maybe not as a rant. Regina told him he needed to speak from his heart and not worry so much about formalities. He hesitated, saying he didn't know how well that would be received and that he wanted to be sure to honor his father.
Regina understood and she blurted out that she was trying to honor her late mother by planning the annual pajama ball held at the bed and breakfast. That had surprised her and she wondered where that information was coming from as she talked about how her mother planned it every year. Nothing about the party even remotely reminded her of Cora but the woman she talked about was the type of mother she had always hoped to have.
The carriage stopped in front of her house and Robin climbed down. He held out his hand and she took it, letting him help her down. Both thanked the driver and Regina tipped him. After wishing them a good night, he drove off and they headed into the house as everyone arrived back as well.
Once they were inside, Mary Margaret got a call and her face fell. She hung up and announced that the snow had caused the roof of the community center to cave in and so they would not be able to have the pajama party there. They needed to find a new venue quickly but she doubted she would find one big enough. As she and Daddy debated possible places, everything clicked in Regina's mind.
It all seemed so familiar because it was straight from one of the movies she had been watching on TV all month long. She recalled this one was called One Royal Holiday, where a nurse from Boston fell in love with a prince from a fictional European country after taking him and his mother to her family's inn.
She was now in that movie with people she knew playing the characters.
But why?
Daddy ushered everyone into the sitting room and they all sat around a fire while drinking hot chocolate and cookies. Granny - Queen Eugenia - noted that she had seen a ballroom in the house and Daddy replied that they were a venue people could rent for parties. She wondered if they could have the pajama party there but Regina said that it wouldn't be able to fit everyone, which is why they had moved the party from their bed and breakfast to the community center.
Mary Margaret then asked Eugenia about the balls in Sherwood. She smiled fondly as she spoke of how all the adults would gather in the ballroom and dance the night away while their children gathered in the kitchens to have a party of her own. Robin chuckled, recalling how much fun he used to have with the other children in the kitchens and then how much he loved to watch his parents dance once he was old enough to go to the ball.
"Wait," Daddy said, his eyes widening. "Maybe we could do that here. All the children can hang out here enjoying cookies and cocoa while the adults dance in the ballroom, just like we used to do."
"That would certainly fit with the theme of an old-fashioned Storybrooke Christmas," Mary Margaret agreed.
Regina, though, felt a deep aversion to the idea and she remembered why the main character in the movie had been against it. "I want to stay true to Mom's vision for the party. She hated the formal balls," she said.
"Your mother loved them," Daddy replied.
"Then why did she stop having them?" Regina asked, even though she already knew the answer. In the movie, it was explained the main character had been such a rambunctious toddler that her mother had no energy for a ball and decided to just have a pajama party. It was supposed to last a few years until Anna, the main character, grew older but it ended up sticking.
And that was exactly what Daddy told her.
He picked up a framed photograph from their mantle and brought it over to her. Daddy sat down next to her and showed it to her. In the picture, he and her mother were younger and dressed in formal attire as they danced together. "This was taken at the Christmas Eve Ball right after we were married and before you were born," he said.
"Oh," she replied, studying the picture. Her parents looked so happy and in love, making her wonder if her parents ever loved each other in the real world. She regretted not asking her mother before leaving the Underworld.
"The Christmas Eve Ball is your responsibility and so the decision is up to you," Daddy told her gently. "Just know that whatever you choose, your mother would be proud."
Tears filled Regina's eyes and a lump in her throat. All she ever wanted was for Mother to be proud of her and even in this spell-created fictional world, hearing those words felt like a balm to her heart.
"I'll let you sleep on it," Daddy said. "But I don't think we can give you much longer than that. Christmas Eve is only a few days away after all."
She nodded, understanding the time crunch. "I'll have a decision by tomorrow, I promise," she said.
They all bid each other goodnight and Mary Margaret left while everyone else returned to their rooms. Regina changed back into the red plaid pajamas from that morning and went about her nightly routine. Now that she realized she was in a movie, she didn't blink when she still appeared to be wearing makeup after washing her face. She left the bathroom and sat on her bed, reflecting on her situation.
She had made a wish for a happy ending like in the Christmas movies she had been watching. And now she was living out one of those movies. Whoever had granted her wish apparently was very literal about it.
Especially in filling the roles. If anything, she would've done a genderswap and cast herself as the princess with Robin as the nurse with a heart of gold. That fit who they were much better and Regina probably wouldn't feel so weird every time she had to be bubblier than she normally was. It would also be a little less disconcerting if Robin weren't so reserved all the time either. Sometimes it felt like she was talking to a brick wall though things were getting better now after the parade. Now she could see her Robin trying to break through.
As she thought about it, it seemed like a reversal of their dynamic early in their relationship. Was that why the wish had put them into these roles?
But why this movie? Regina had enjoyed it but she didn't know if she would've picked it had she been given a choice about which movie she wanted to act out with Robin as her leading man. She probably also would've picked one that could've incorporated their sons as well so she could spend more time with Roland and watch Henry get to bond with Robin, everything they were denied in real life.
Lying down on her bed, Regina wondered what would happen once the movie ended and she did have to return to real life. Would she be content to have this fleeting happy ending with Robin? Or would it make everything worse when she woke up in a world where he was dead again? Could she bear losing him all over again?
Her stomach tightened and a lump formed in her throat. She sat up, knowing it was dangerous to continue lying there with only her thoughts for company. Regina pulled on the green bathrobe she found on the back of her bathroom door and crept into the darkened hallway. Maybe some tea would help her sleep better.
She entered the kitchen and found someone had beaten her down there as the refrigerator door was open. That reminded Regina that there was a character who cooked in the movie and she hadn't seen anyone who corresponded to her. Maybe that person was the one in the refrigerator and she wondered who was playing her as she said: "Hello?"
"Shoot!" Glass clinked inside the refrigerator as Robin pulled away from it. He gave her a sheepish grin. "I didn't think anyone else was up."
"I didn't think princes raided fridges," she teased him, stepping closer.
He shrugged. "I thought a midnight snack might help with the speech writing but there's no room service."
"Right," she said, remembering that had been an issue early in the movie when James had first gotten to the inn. Clearly she and Robin had had the same issue before she had woken up in this movie that morning.
She looked over his green bathrobe and matching pajamas. He almost looked like he could go outside and no one would really blink an eye. Regina motioned up and down his body. "Is there a rule in Sherwood that royal pajamas must be very formal?"
"Is there a rule here in America that all winter pajamas must be red plaid?" he asked, repeating her motion.
"Yes," she replied cheekily. She then walked over to the counter. "Just like there's a rule you have to have hot chocolate around Christmas. If you refuse, Mary Margaret will be forced to lock you up. Imagine the scandal."
He nodded solemnly though she saw his lips twitch and a sparkle in his eyes. "We certainly wouldn't want to cause an international incident, would we?"
"No, we wouldn't," she agreed, taking out two mugs and finding the hot chocolate. "So I think you should have some."
"I think so as well," he replied. "On one condition. We have some cookies with it."
She pretended to think it over before holding out her hand. "You drive a hard bargain. Deal."
He shook her hand. "International crisis averted."
They finally broke and laughed as she finished making them hot chocolate. After grabbing some cookies, she led him into the parlor and turned on their Christmas tree. She then motioned to a nearby chair. "Have a seat," she said.
"Okay," Robin said, sitting down. "Any particular reason why you chose this chair?"
She grinned, knowing he was going to like what she was about to do next. "Trust me?"
"Possibly," he replied, narrowing his eyes. "Not entirely sure."
Regina shook her head as she pressed a lever, sending the chair back down into a reclining position. He let out a yelp as he went backwards, his legs going up in the air as he said: "I've decided - I don't trust you!"
"Oh, relax," she told him, pressing a button. "And enjoy."
"Enjoy wha…oh," he moaned, closing his eyes as the chair began to vibrate and massage his back. "This feels good."
She laughed as she sat down in the chair next to him, reclining it and pressing the massage button for herself. It began to vibrate and she sighed, feeling it work out the knots in her back. Regina closed her eyes as said: "I wish I had this back home."
"Me too," he replied. "Maybe I could convince someone to upgrade the throne with a massaging option."
"I can only imagine the headlines for that," she teased him.
He chuckled. "It would be my little secret."
"I guess even princes get to have their secrets," she replied, feeling more relaxed as they lapsed into a comfortable silence.
Regina started to drift off, feeling like she was floating, when Robin next spoke. "So I know why I'm still up. Why are you?"
She debated her answer, knowing she couldn't explain that they were trapped in a Christmas movie and he was her soulmate but dead in her real life. Robin would think she was crazy and likely retreat. Honestly, she thought she was crazy and wouldn't blame him.
Thankfully, there was another answer for her to use. "Thinking about Christmas Eve and the party."
"Ahh," he said, understanding in his voice. "Still not sure about changing it up, huh?"
"Planning the Pajama Ball made me feel like my mother was still here," she admitted, feeling the familiar grief she always wore like a comfortable sweater envelope her even as she followed a script meant for someone else. "I worry that if I change it, I'll forget her."
Robin shook his head, sitting up and taking her hand. "You will never forget her, Pajama Ball or regular Christmas Eve Ball. She will always live on in your heart and you will carry her with you for the rest of your life."
It was such a Robin thing to say and tears filled her eyes before spilling down her cheeks. She pressed her hand to her heart, thinking of everyone she carried there. Daniel, Daddy, Mother, Roland, Robin…she didn't know if she could fit anyone else in there and worried that one would have to go eventually.
She didn't want to lose any of them.
"I'm sorry," he said, handing her a handkerchief. "I didn't mean to make you cry."
"That's alright," she replied, wiping her eyes. "It just means that your words really touched me, that's all."
He smiled softly. "I'm glad. I know how lonely grief can feel sometimes and I'm happy to share yours."
"That's sweet," she said. "And I'm sorry for judging you so harshly when we first met. You certainly are not the man I thought you were - and I mean that as a compliment."
Robin chuckled. "Thank you but I probably wouldn't have thought very highly of me either. I'd say it was the stress but that is ultimately no excuse. I am responsible for my own actions and so I'm sorry."
"You're forgiven," she said. "And I'm sure your people will forgive you for last Christmas as well."
He sighed, tilting his back again as he groaned. "Not if I bomb my speech again. And if I can't win their hearts…I don't know what I would do."
"You're their prince," she told him. "I'm sure they love you just for that."
Regina nearly grimaced as those words left her mouth. She knew better than anyone else that people didn't love you just because you wore the crown. After all, it took her years to earn even just the respect of her subjects. She doubted she could say they loved her even now.
"I don't know," he replied, "but I know I love them. Everyone in Sherwood is like family to me. Without them, I am nothing. And therefore, I only desire their happiness even more than my own."
Her heart melted a bit at the passion in his voice as well as the affection in his eyes and she placed her hand on his. "I think that's what you tell them then. Exactly like that."
"You think so?" he asked, looking hesitant.
"I know so," she countered. "You can't go wrong when you speak from the heart. And it seems you have a very big one. It's time to show it to your people."
Robin tilted his head. "A big heart, huh?"
She nodded. "Trust me. I know hearts."
"Alright," he replied, chuckling. "I guess I'll trust you. You were right about this chair after all."
"Yes, I was," she said, feeling a big smug. She swallowed it down as she asked: "Are you feeling better?"
Robin took a deep breath. "I am. Thank you."
"You're welcome," she replied. "Do you feel like you can go to sleep now?"
"I do," he said. "How about you? Feel better about the ball now?"
She bit her lip before saying: "Yeah, I think I do."
He stood and held out his hand to her. Robin helped her up before stepping back. "Goodnight, Regina. If I don't see you in the morning, thank you for all your help."
"You're welcome," she said, though she knew that he would not be leaving in the morning. The winter weather would conspire to keep the royal family there a few days longer she had more time with him. But since she was the only one who knew that, she didn't mention it.
Instead, all she said next was: "Goodnight, Robin. And thank you."
They headed upstairs together but parted ways as she headed for her room and he went to his. She entered her bedroom and climbed under the covers. While Regina still was not a fan of balls, she was looking forward to the Christmas Eve Ball and sharing a dance with Robin one more time.
She closed her eyes as she drifted off to sleep, imagining the two of them dancing to Christmas music in a room full of decorations and a beautiful Christmas tree. It was a perfect Christmas movie ending.
The heavy snows and winds had brought down trees all over, including one rather large one blocking the only road out of Storybrooke. Robin seemed more amused than anything by this latest delay though he did ask what kind of town only had one road in and out of it. Daddy shrugged and told him it was part of the charm of living in a small town.
Regina then announced that she had decided to go ahead with the Christmas Eve Ball and the Pajama Party for the children. She had sent out an email earlier that morning - it had been all written and just waiting for her to hit send, set up by an imaginary prop department. With that done, Regina invited Robin to come help her look for decorations so they could get the ballroom ready since they didn't have much time.
After checking the attic and not finding much they could use, Regina decided they would need to go into town to get more supplies. Robin said he needed to get ready and would meet her outside. She grabbed her coat from her room and checked her hair and makeup, both perfect as she was in a movie, before waiting outside the inn for Robin.
He stepped out shortly after, wearing a gray cable knit sweater with gray slacks and sturdy boots. Robin donned his familiar black coat as he greeted her. She tilted her head. "Where have you been hiding that sweater?"
"In David's suitcase," he replied. "Thankfully he shares my mother's tendency for overpacking."
"Well, I think you're much better prepared for a walk into town now," she said, motioning toward Main Street. "Shall we?"
They walked away from the inn as Regina looked around the piles of snow covering the ground. "Does it snow often in Sherwood?" she asked him.
"Not really," he replied. "And nothing like you get here in Maine."
She chuckled. "I doubt anywhere else would be able to top the snow here in Maine."
"Maybe in the North Pole," he replied.
"Fair enough," she agreed. "So you've never built a snowman?"
He nodded. "We used to go skiing and I made a snowman when I was up there."
"That sounds nice," she said, glad he got to do something other little children got to do. "How about a snowball fight?"
"No, never got to do that," he replied. "Everyone was worried that I would get hurt or worse. Or that someone would hurl ice at me on purpose."
She shuddered, remembering how Leopold's guards would list all the ways someone could hurt him, Snow White or Regina when they went out amongst the public. Perhaps it was another reason why she kept the people away from her once she was the only queen - she knew they didn't like her and knew what they could do to hurt her. "How awful."
"Yeah," he said. He glanced at her. "Did I miss much?"
"You missed a lot," she replied, stopping to pick up a large stick. She held it out to him. "Here, take this."
He tilted his head as he did so. "I didn't know snowball fights involved sticks."
"We're going to shake things up a bit," she said. "And I don't want David to come from out of nowhere to tackle me for throwing snowballs at the prince of Sherwood."
Robin chuckled. "Good point."
She made up a snowball and stepped back. "Are you familiar with baseball?"
"Yes," he replied, holding the stick like a baseball. "We do get American sports in Sherwood."
"Good," she said. "Here comes the ball."
Regina tossed the snowball to him like a softball. He easily hit it, causing it to explode into little pieces of snow. They both laughed and he nodded, biting his lip. "That was fun. Thank you," he said.
"You're welcome," she said as they started walking again. "Sometimes you just need to have a little fun. It's a great way to destress."
Those words felt odd coming from her mouth. She probably was the worst at taking care of herself. Robin usually had taken it on himself to take care of her instead - he would bring her food to make sure she ate, force her to take breaks and make sure she got plenty of sleep. He had a knack for knowing when she was at her most stressed and would appear with something to relieve it.
And now here she was telling a version of him that he needed to work on healthy ways to alleviate his stress.
Wish worlds were certainly strange ones.
They arrived in town and she was surprised to find Ruby and Belle coming out of the store. Both stopped when they saw Regina and Robin, grinning. "Regina, we got your email. We immediately rushed out to buy dresses," Belle said, holding up her bags.
Ruby nodded. "It sounds so elegant to be going to a ball. And I know your ball is going to be amazing."
"We honestly can't wait," Belle continued.
"Are you going to be there?" Ruby asked Robin, looking at him with a hunger in her eyes that made Regina's possessiveness rise.
Robin shook his head. "As much as I would love to be there, I need to return to Sherwood and celebrate Christmas with my people."
Belle nodded. "Understandable. I guess we'll have to dance with someone else, Ruby."
"I suppose so," Ruby said with a sigh. "See you then, Regina."
The two friends walked away as Robin turned to Regina. "And you were worried people wouldn't be excited about the ball."
Regina shrugged, knowing that was just an excuse. "I guess I was just projecting."
"So are you excited about the ball now?" he asked, holding the door open so she could enter the store.
"I think I am," she replied, though she knew she was. But he couldn't know that he was going to be there to dance with her on Christmas Eve so she had to play it cool. "Maybe I'll see why my mom liked the ball so much."
He nodded, placing his hand on her back. "I think you'll find that you feel even closer with her after this than if you had just thrown another Pajama Ball."
"You're probably right," she said, leaning closer to her as she wished she could just hug him. But their characters were almost but not quite there so she had to bide her time. Instead, she motioned to the store. "Let's start shopping for decorations."
Robin nodded, pulling away. "Ladies first."
"You better believe it," she said, grinning at him. "Don't get in my way while I'm shopping."
"Wouldn't dream of it," he replied. For a moment, she was back in the Enchanted Forest trying to break into her own castle and then investigating an abandoned farmhouse on the edge of Storybrooke - all with Robin.
Maybe there was part of him that remembered that too.
But she could figure that out later. For now, she needed to get decorations and to get ready for a ball.
It took them all afternoon but she and Robin got the ballroom decorated. As they put up Christmas trees, hung wreaths and set up lighted decorations, they talked and joked with each other. Both were relaxed and in good moods, trusting each other and acting like partners rather than strangers thrown together. That afternoon was probably the closest Regina felt to having time with her Robin back.
She didn't know if she could ask for anything more.
"As a prince, I can assure you that this room is now ready for a ball," he declared, winking at her. He looked around the room. "Where are you going to put the musicians?"
"We usually have a DJ," she said before grimacing. "Which is fine for a Pajama Ball but not a ball ball."
He nodded. "Do you need help finding musicians?"
She shook her head. "We have some we use for weddings. I can't see if they are available."
"Good," he replied. "You know, my absolute favorite Christmas song is the Christmas Waltz. Do you know it?"
"Know it? It's my favorite song too," Regina said, though that was more the character than her. She preferred Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.
He chuckled. "Well, look at that. Do you like to waltz to it too?"
"Oh," she said, her heart sinking. It seemed she shared at least one thing in common with the character. "I don't know how to waltz."
"Well, that won't do," Robin replied, holding out his hand. "Would you like to learn?"
She nodded, taking his hand. "I would love to learn."
"Then I shall count us in," he said. "One two three and…"
They moved together and Regina found her feet knew the steps though Robin pretended to still coach her through them. As they danced across the dance floor, she heard music playing softly around her - an instrumental version of The Christmas Waltz. Which made sense as they were in a movie and there would be music there. As Robin spun her, she decided to just enjoy herself.
But it was hard as she thought of the last ball she went to with Robin. She thought of them dancing together in Camelot and how surprised she was that Robin knew several courtly dances. Regina had always meant to ask him about it but never got the chance. Sir Percival had tried to kill her and he had been almost fatally stabbed trying to save her so that night had been spent with her holding him after Emma had healed them. Things continued to roll so quickly that by the time she could've asked him about knowing how to dance, he was already gone.
And she certainly couldn't ask the Robin dancing with her. She guessed she would never know.
"You're doing good," Robin said, drawing her from her thoughts. "You're a natural dancer."
"This is magic," she told him honestly. "Usually I have two left feet."
"Maybe you just didn't have the right partner," he replied, pulling her closer to him until they stood almost nose-to-nose.
She looked up into his blue eyes and her heart skipped a beat. For a moment, she believed she was looking into her Robin's eyes. Love and adoration swirled in the depths, just like when she used to meet Robin's eyes when he was alive.
"Maybe you're right," she whispered, leaning closer to him as her eyes began to close. Maybe True Love's Kiss would end the spell and bring Robin back to her…
"There's a call for you…"
Regina and Robin jumped apart as Daddy stopped inside the ballroom. His eyes were wide as he looked between them, realizing he had interrupted something. Clearing his throat, he said: "I'm sorry. There's a call for you from Sherwood. Sounds important."
"Why didn't they call my…?" Robin pulled out his phone and groaned, meaning it was dead. "I'll take the call. Thank you."
He left the ballroom as Daddy looked around, smiling. "It looks beautiful in here. You and Robin did a wonderful job."
"Thank you," she said. "Everyone seems to be excited about the ball. I hope it's everything they want."
"I'm sure it will be," he replied. "But what do you want?"
She shook her head. "This isn't about me."
Daddy sighed. "That's the problem. It's never about you. You're allowed to put yourself first sometimes. You're allowed to want something."
"I have a feeling we're not talking about the ball now," she said, frowning.
"You're right," he replied. "And I think you know exactly what or who we're talking about."
She sighed, knowing he meant Robin. But it was still too early in the movie for her to give in to that. "Robin and I are just friends. And even if we did want more, he's a prince and I'm a nurse. It would never work."
"How do you know?" Daddy asked.
"I do," Regina said, starting to realize why the wish made her the nurse rather than the royal. Both had been burnt by love before and were therefore slow to trust.
He sighed, hugging her again. "I know you've been hurt and lost so much this past year. But don't close yourself off on the chance to love and be happy just because it might be hard. You've never been one to run from challenges before. Don't start now."
She swallowed, knowing that was a sentiment her father had tried to tell her back in the Enchanted Forest. Regina hadn't listened to him then but she hoped she could listen to him now in order to get a different ending.
"Come on," he said, clearly knowing he won't get much of an answer from her. "Let's go have dinner before the candlelight caroling tonight."
"Caroling, right," Regina replied, trying not to groan as she followed him out of the room. She had forgotten about the caroling sequence which she was certain was only there because several of the cast members were also Broadway stars. Hopefully she wouldn't have to sing like Anna had or if she did, the wish would make her voice better than it was.
It at least owed her that.
Candlelight caroling went well enough. The wish did make Regina's voice better as she joined in with Mary Margaret while keeping her eyes on Robin. He sang as well, his gaze never wavering from her even when everyone else joined in. She wished she could've frozen time for that moment, caught in the love she saw in Robin's eyes. For a moment, she almost leaned in to kiss him but was thwarted when someone tripped on some ice. No doubt it had been concocted by the wish and she had to keep the course of the plot.
And so she would, no matter how annoying it was.
She lay in bed that night after Robin had given her a hug when they returned from caroling, certain he and his mother would be returning to Sherwood in the morning. Regina knew the truth - they would delay their trip due to black ice - but she had to play along. She didn't want to take any more chances after the wish ruined a chance for a kiss and kept her from declaring her love for Robin.
Of course, that was part of the movie. Anna and James were close to admitting their feelings but the singing started, keeping them from their confessions. It gave Anna time to doubt herself again, something Regina could certainly relate to. She knew they were speeding toward some angst and heartbreak.
Can't we skip that? She glanced out the window, trying to spot the star so the wish could hear her. Can't we just go to the kiss and the dancing and the happy ever after? Haven't I had enough heartbreak already?
But she knew the answer. She would have to deal with the heartbreak to get the happy ending. At least this time, it would be guaranteed. That comforted her as she drifted off to sleep, ready to face the new day.
Just as she expected, black ice prevented Robin and Eugenia from leaving. Regina was both ecstatic and nervous, knowing that she was only hours away from going through the heartbreak part of the movie. But she couldn't hide in her room and just wait for the happy ending.
So she oversaw the gingerbread house competition instead.
Robin and Eugenia made one together, bonding as mother and son as Regina watched from a distance. She then joined them to make one of her own but this was different. Usually she was an expert gingerbread house maker but not this time. Her pieces kept falling apart no matter what she did. Meanwhile, Robin's looked like a house.
"Okay," she said, setting down her icing. "I was not expecting you to be so good at this. Are you sure you've never built a gingerbread house before?"
"And insult the royal baker and his magnificent gingerbread replica of the palace? Never," Robin said. "Though maybe he wouldn't be opposed to having some gingerbread houses on display with his palace being the centerpiece."
She smiled, loving how relaxed he was now though feeling some regret that she never got to make a gingerbread house with her Robin. "So you're just a gingerbread house natural then?"
"I minored in architecture in university," he replied, grinning. "Same basic principles."
"I suppose so," she said, pulling out a little gift she had. She held it out. "You get a prize."
He took the gift with a raised eyebrow. "How did you know I would succeed?"
"I didn't," she confessed. "I got that as a consolation prize."
Robin chuckled as he unwrapped the gift. It was an ornament designed after her family's inn and it had Storybrooke written on it. He ran his finger over it as he smiled softly, making her heart skip a beat. Leaning forward, she said: "I saw you admiring it the other day and got it for you. It's a little piece of Storybrooke you can take back home to Sherwood with you."
"Thank you," he said, looking up and meeting her eyes. "I shall treasure it always."
"Good," she said, resisting the urge to cry. She just wanted to pull him into her arms, kissing him and never let him go.
But she was going to have to later that day and trust that the movie would play out the way it did on her TV. If so, then he would come back to her.
She just had to be patient.
Just like in the movie, Queen Eugenia presented them with a pastry from Sherwood after dinner. Robin happily cut a piece and brought it over to Regina. He sat down next to her as he placed the pastry in her hand. "Try that and tell me it's not as good as that dreaded Christmas cruller."
It took her a moment to remember that the movie more or less started with Anna and James meeting in a donut shop and arguing about the seasonal Christmas cruller. Anna had compared it to their national pastry and James had defended it. It was likely she and Robin had had a similar start prior to when she woke up in this dream.
"Fine," she said, taking a bite of the pastry. Chocolate and cream mixed together along with a hint of cinnamon. It was the most delicious thing she had ever tasted and she let out a soft moan. "Okay, the Christmas cruller doesn't hold a candle to this."
"Aha!" he declared triumphantly. "I told you."
Daddy chuckled, stepping closer to Queen Eugenia. "Let me try this then."
"Me too!" Mary Margaret said, jumping up from where she sat with David. He chuckled as he followed her over to Queen Eugenia too. Soon, everyone was enjoying the pastry as the fire crackled in the fireplace and the lights on the Christmas tree sparkled.
Queen Eugenia sat down next to her son, smiling as she watched everyone eat. "I am glad we were able to share this with you after you've shared all your wonderful traditions with us," she said.
"Yes," Robin replied, nodding. "I just wish Father had been here to enjoy it."
"He would've loved it here. And he would've loved spending time with you. That was his one regret," she told him, patting his hand.
Regina watched Robin look down and swallow, no doubt trying not to cry. "I am grateful for the time we got with him after he was released from hospital in Boston."
"Your father was in a hospital in Boston?" Regina asked, though she knew the answer was yes. She still had to play her part.
"Yes," Robin replied. "He suffered a heart attack while attending a conference in Boston and was rushed to Boston General."
"That's Regina's hospital," Daddy chimed in.
Both Robin and Queen Eugenia looked up at her with surprise in their eyes. "He was in the cardiac care unit. Are you familiar with it?" Robin asked.
"That's where I work," Regina replied, following the script in her head even though she knew what would happen later.
"Maybe you helped my father," he said, looking excited. "He would've used a false name. Did you have a Richard Johnson?"
She shook her head, knowing that name did not ring a bell. "I'm sorry, no. But all my colleagues are amazing and I know his nurses were wonderful to him."
"Oh, we have no doubt," Queen Eugenia said. "He would not stop talking about the care received there. That's why we made a donation in his honor to the hospital."
Robin nodded. "That's why we were in town."
"The gala," Regina said, recalling how the movie opened with people going to a party while Anna stayed behind. "It was for you."
"It was," Queen Eugenia confirmed.
"Were you there?" Robin asked, his eyes lighting up.
She shook her head again. "I stayed behind so the other nurses could go while our patients in the cardiac care unit were taken care of."
He stood, taking her hand in his. "Then my mother and I thank you and your fellow nurses for all the love and care shown to my father when he was a patient at your hospital. It meant the world to us."
"You're very welcome," she whispered as he kissed her hand.
The conversation moved on as Robin sat back down. Regina sat down as well, taking her place next to her father. She kept glancing over at Robin, her stomach twisting in knots. The heartbreaking moment would occur soon and she didn't know if she wanted to put it off forever or get it over with. Hopefully it wouldn't be too bad and her happy ending would be quickly after it.
Or else this would be the worst wish ever.
She and Robin ended up back in the ballroom again. He grinned as he stood on the dance floor. "Are you ready for the rest of your lessons?"
"I guess so," she said, taking his hand. "I apologize for any smushed toes."
"You were fine the other day. I think my toes are safe," he said, holding her close as he began the steps to the waltz. Once again, her feet followed him and they soon were twirling around the dance floor together.
Music again played from nowhere as neither of them were playing anything. Robin spun her out before gently spinning her back. They stood chest-to-chest, almost nose-to-nose as they stopped in place. Her heart sped up even though she knew that now was not the time for the kiss, though she wished she could. It would make everything so much better.
"Regina, there's something I want to say to you," he told her. "I tried to tell you last night but the caroling…well…you know."
She nodded, looking in his blue eyes. "There's something I want to tell you too."
"Ladies first then," he said, his voice soft.
"No," she replied. "I want to hear what you have to say first. Please?"
His gaze softened even more and he started to smile. "Alright. Regina, when we met, I didn't realize how the loss of my father was still affecting me. But being around you, I realized that I had closed myself off from the world to protect myself from getting hurt again."
"I had done the same," she confessed, though she wasn't sure if she was in character or her own honest admission.
"I find that hard to believe," he said. "You've been so open and so kind and so welcoming…Your warmth and smile have brought me out of my shell."
She leaned closer. "I am so glad to have helped."
"You've helped in so many ways," he said, his voice almost a whisper. "Regina, I hope you know I hold you in the highest regard. In fact, I do believe that I…"
BZZT. BZZT. BZZT.
Regina swallowed as her heart sank into her stomach. The moment had arrived and she said: "You should get that."
"Whoever it is can wait," he said. "You're the only one I care about now."
She sighed, knowing he meant that. And she wished she could ignore his phone and let him profess his love for her now. However, the phone kept ringing and she shook her head as she stepped back. "Just check for me, please."
He nodded, pulling out his phone. Robin grimaced as he said: "It's the palace. I should get this. I'll be quick."
"Alright," she said, watching as he stepped away to answer his phone. She didn't know what time it was in Sherwood but given how late it was in Storybrooke, she figured it was either very late or very early in his country. If someone was calling him, it had to be an emergency.
He looked over at her, uncertainty in his eyes as he frowned. Regina knew what he was being told and her heart pounded as he ended the call, looking up something on his phone as he approached her. "Apparently my chief advisor wanted to give me the head's up about the morning edition of our main newspaper," he said.
"Why?" she asked, bracing herself for the answer.
"Because of this," he said, holding up his phone to reveal a picture of them looking cozy at the caroling the night before. "Apparently the media in Sherwood is saying that I'm neglecting my duties at home because I want to stay in America."
She shook her head, feeling bad for Robin. "But you love Sherwood. It's clear to anyone who knows you."
He sighed as he minimized the picture to reveal the article it was attached to. "But it's not clear to the people of Sherwood. Combined with last year's disastrous speech, they have more than enough reason to doubt me."
"Then you need to go home and show them," Regina said, seeing that the article questioned if his heart had been given to an American and if she was queen material. No wonder Anna questioned if they would be able to work - she would have to win over an entire county.
And Regina certainly didn't have a good track record herself at that.
Robin nodded as he tucked the phone away in his pocket. "I know. But we aren't done just yet…"
"I just wanted to say that I'm glad you've enjoyed your time in Storybrooke," she said, tears filling her eyes as she knew she had to do this. "And that I hope you have a safe flight back to Sherwood."
He frowned, his brows knitted. "That's not what you were going to say."
"It doesn't matter what I was going to say," she insisted, trying not to cry. "We both know that this is what needs to happen. Merry Christmas, Your Highness."
"Regina…" he protested, reaching for her. She stepped back and fled the room, finally allowing her tears to fall as she raced to the safety of her room. Regina closed her door and locked it, falling onto her bed and sobbing as her heart broke again.
She really hated this part of the movies.
"So you just ran away?" Mary Margaret asked, sitting next to Regina in the parlor as they knitted socks for the partygoers. Even though they had changed the type of party it was, everyone agreed socks were still an appropriate favor.
"I guess so," Regina replied, knowing it was the truth. "I just…I just couldn't pretend anymore."
Mary Margaret raised her eyebrow. "Pretend? Are you saying you've just been pretending the past few days because if you have, you missed your calling as an actress."
"That's not what I meant," Regina said. "The past few days have felt as if we were trapped in a snow globe, the perfect Christmas scene. But now reality has returned and reminded me that it would never work."
"How do you know?" Mary Margaret asked her.
Before Regina could respond, David appeared in the doorway. "I just want to say goodnight. So…goodnight," he said.
"Goodnight," Mary Margaret replied, her eyes lighting up as she and David shared a knowing smile. Regina watched her friend as she sensed David walk away, heading up to his room for the night.
"What was that?" Regina asked Mary Margaret.
Mary Margaret turned back to her sock. "You're not the only one who made a connection with our guests from Sherwood."
"I'm worried about that," Regina said. "They're leaving tomorrow."
"I know," Mary Margaret replied.
But Regina didn't think her friend had thought it through at all. "David's life is in Sherwood. Yours is here in Storybrooke. You're going to get hurt."
"Maybe," Mary Margaret said. "But I'll never know if I don't try."
"That seems pointless," Regina replied, feeling more like the woman she used to be before Robin entered her life. "Pain is not worth it."
Mary Margaret studied her. "So you're saying that your entire relationship with Graham wasn't worth it because it ended in pain? Or is your pain speaking now?"
Regina had forgotten the movie had started with Anna recovering from a bad breakup with her fiancé. It hadn't really been mentioned and whatever had happened between them never really influenced the plot. At the end of the day, it just seemed to be a way to explain why Anna was single and for the people of her town to mistake James for her fiancé.
The wish, though, apparently had other plans.
"This has nothing to do with my breakup with Graham," Regina insisted. "I'm just being real."
"And I'm not?" Mary Margaret asked, frowning.
Regina sighed. "I think you're caught up in the Christmas spirit. I was too. But this isn't real…"
"Don't say that," Mary Margaret said, holding up her hand. "This is real life, Regina. It's unpredictable and messy and complicated. And it's also wonderful and full of happiness. You have to take the good with the bad and you can't let the latter prevent you from experiencing the former."
"I just don't want to see you get hurt," Regina replied.
Mary Margaret nodded. "And you don't want to get hurt yourself, right?"
"This isn't about me," Regina insisted, even though she knew that was a complete lie. It was about her.
After all, it was her wish.
It was clear that Mary Margaret didn't believe her either. "Sure it's not. Look, Regina, this is my life and I'm going to make my own choices - right or wrong. We can't hide from pain for the rest of our lives. Because if we do, we might miss something amazing. And that will always be worth the pain."
She handed the socks back to Regina and stood. "I'm going to go home. I'll see you in the morning."
"Mary Margaret," Regina said, standing as well. "I'm sorry. Please don't be mad at me."
"I'm not mad," her friend replied, taking her hands. "I'm just frustrated. Both by you questioning my judgment and by watching you wall yourself off. I just want you to be happy and don't want you to do anything you'll regret."
Mary Margaret then hugged her. "Goodnight, Regina. Just promise me you'll think about what I've said?"
Regina hugged her back. "I will."
"Good," Mary Margaret said before leaving. Regina set the socks aside and put out the fire, heading up to her room. She just had to go a little bit longer and then she would get her happy ending.
But as she drifted off to sleep, there was one question that echoed around her mind.
What happened after the happy ending?
Robin, Queen Eugenia and David left in the morning. She knew Mary Margaret and Daddy saw them off as she watched from the window. Regina hoped Robin would look back and see her in the window but he climbed into the car without giving the house a second glance. It broke her heart but she reminded herself that he was even more heartbroken than her as he didn't have the benefit of knowing how the movie played out.
You'll get your happy ending, she reminded herself. Just be patient.
Once the car had disappeared from view, Regina finally went downstairs. She found a sad Mary Margaret standing in the front parlor and approached carefully. "Are you okay?" she asked.
"Yeah," Mary Margaret said. "David and I knew we would have to stay goodbye. But we've also already booked my ticket for me to spend New Year's in Sherwood."
Regina remembered that part of the movie and smiled. "That sounds wonderful. I hope you have a lot of fun."
"Me too," Mary Margaret replied. "And I hope that maybe you'll join us as well. Spend New Year's in Sherwood…with Robin."
"I don't think so," Regina said. "But thank you for the offer."
Mary Margaret sighed. "Alright. Can't say I didn't try."
"I appreciate you not pushing this," Regina replied.
"Well, I can't save you from yourself," Mary Margaret told her. She took Regina's hands. "Just know that the offer is good until I get back from Sherwood, okay?"
Regina nodded. "Okay."
"With that settled, I think we deserve some pampering before the ball," Mary Margaret said, looping her arm with Regina's. "What do you say?"
"Pampering sounds great," Regina said, knowing she needed a good spa day in both this wish world and her real world. At least she would get it in one of them. She left with Mary Margaret, eager to get to the ball and her reunion with Robin.
Knocking interrupted Regina as she finished putting on the jewelry she found in her jewelry box ahead of the ball. She hurried over to the door and opened it, finding her father on the other side. He motioned to his tie. "Can you help me with this?"
"Of course," she said, deftly doing his tie. "You look very handsome."
"And you look very beautiful," he replied. "Is that one of your mother's old gowns?"
Regina nodded, though she doubted it. The dress looked too modern to have been worn in either the late eighties or early nineties but she knew it was part of the script. "Do you think she would mind?" she asked.
"I think your mother would be so happy to know you were wearing it," he said, hugging her. "And that you brought back the ball."
"Thank you, Daddy," she replied, enjoying having him in her life again. The movie ended on Christmas Eve and so she only had a few more hours with him.
Or at least she assumed so. She still wasn't sure what would happen once the movie ended. Would she wake up back in Storybrooke alone? How would that help her?
She wished the wish came with an instruction manual.
Daddy released her and gently cupped her cheek. "I'll see you downstairs, okay?"
"Alright," she said, watching him leave. She then turned to the mirror and studied the golden strapless gown she wore with elegant beading on the bodice and a long skirt. Regina had never really been one for princess dresses but she had to admit she liked this one, even if it made her feel like Belle. When she had brushed her hair, it had curled and part was pulled into a bun while the rest fell to her shoulders, making her look even more like Belle's animated counterpart. But she still loved and knew there would be no pictures so no one could tease her about it.
Picking up the matching shawl and draping it over her shoulders, she took a deep breath. "It's showtime," she told her reflection before leaving the room.
Regina walked down the stairs as her neighbors poured into the inn. All the adults wore ball gowns or suits while the children wore their pajamas. Volunteers ushered the children away and Regina chuckled as she watched them happily go for their party in the kitchen.
She scanned the lobby and her heart stopped when she saw a man standing with his back to her. His height, body type and hair color matched Robin's and for a moment, she wondered if he had already come back for her. But then two children ran up to the man and when he turned to hug them, she realized he wasn't Robin.
He's coming, she reminded herself. Just be patient.
Her clutch vibrated and she opened it to find a message on her phone from David. She pulled the phone out and opened the message, finding a recording of Robin's Christmas Eve message. David had written a little note with it.
I think you should watch Robin's speech.
She hurried down the rest of the stairs and found a secluded corner, away from the guests. Regina pressed play and took in Robin sitting in the palace wearing a blue military jacket filled with medals and insignias. For a moment, she wondered if he had served in a military both in the movie and in her realm before pushing it aside. All that mattered now were his words.
"People of Sherwood," he began. "I know last year's address was, to quote an oft-used phrase, a complete disaster."
Regina chuckled before listening to the rest of his speech. "I also know there have been many who have questioned my commitment and loyalty to Sherwood. Let me say now with all honesty and conviction - I am truly loyal to Sherwood and completely committed to you, her wonderful people," he declared.
"Good job, Robin," she whispered, proud of the emotion he allowed to fill his voice as he spoke those words.
"Yes, my mother and I were fortunate enough to spend time in a little village in Maine called Storybrooke," he continued. "And in many ways, it reminded me of our beautiful country and made me love our homeland even more."
Robin paused before continuing: "I also met a very special person over there and she told me that I should speak from my heart. I do so now with you, my people. You are my family and no matter where I am, I carry all of you in my heart - your hopes, your joys, your dreams, your wishes, your love. Christmas is a celebration of all of that and I promise that starting next Christmas, I will ensure that Christmas in Sherwood reflects all her people and brings together our amazing communities to celebrate the holiday as one family.
"As you celebrate this year, I hope you speak from the heart as well and tell the people you love just how much they mean to you. On behalf of my mother, Queen Eugenia, and myself, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy, happy New Year," he finished as his mother smiled behind him.
Tears filled her eyes as she scanned down to the comments, almost all of which were very positive. It seemed Robin had managed to rehabilitate his image and win his people back to his side. Many also expressed hope that the "very special person" would one day be their queen as it was clear that Robin cared for her very much. Those comments made her heart skip a beat and she knew what she had to do.
She hurried out of the inn, not caring that it was supposed to be Christmas Eve and there were still several feet of snow on the ground. Mary Margaret stopped her, frowning. "Where are you going?"
"I have to go to Sherwood," Regina said, pushing past her friend. She turned around as she said: "I need to tell Robin how I feel."
"Regina."
Her heart skipped a beat at the sound of Robin's familiar voice. She slowly turned around to find him standing there in a tuxedo, watching her with love in his blue eyes. Regina took a few tentative steps toward him. "You're here," she said.
"I am," he replied. "I recorded my Christmas Eve message and then came straight here with Mother. We discovered something interesting in one of my father's old speeches. He references the nurse who took care of him in Boston and though he calls her Gina, it sounds a lot like you."
She swallowed, the script filling her head with the explanation. "I was Gina a few years ago because there was another Regina and she insisted I go by a nickname. She transferred and I got my name back."
Robin grinned as he pulled out his phone, showing her a picture of a man with gray hair and bright blue eyes. He was clean shaven but Robin said: "He likely had a beard when he was at your hospital."
"That's Michael," she said, recognizing her former patient. "Michael was Richard."
"He was," Robin confirmed. "My father spoke very highly of you in his speech. You really touched him."
Regina sniffed as wish-created memories filled her and she found she wished she had asked Robin about his parents before he had been taken from her. "He was so sweet to me. I would sit with him late at night when he had difficulty sleeping and he would tell me all about his amazing son. He told me that if I ever met his son that he would treat me like a princess."
"Well, I have every intention of doing that," Robin said, tucking his phone back into his pocket. He then held out his hand. "May I escort you to the ball?"
"You may," she said, her heart filling with happiness as she took his hand and let him escort her into the ballroom.
People parted as she and Robin approached the ballroom, many whispering as they passed. Regina didn't care as she laced her fingers with Robin's, happy to be back with him even if it meant the movie was over. She still didn't know once the screen normally faded to black and wanted to enjoy every moment she had with him.
The dance floor was filled with people dancing and she smiled when she saw Mary Margaret swaying with David as the quartet played a classic Christmas song. She leaned over to say something to Robin when he slid his hand from her. He gave her an apologetic grin before holding up his finger. "I'll be right back," he said.
"Okay," she said, watching as he approached the band. He whispered something to one of the musicians, who nodded. As the quartet brought the song they were playing to an end, Robin approached her again and held out his hand.
"May I have this dance?" he asked.
She smiled as she took his hand. "You may."
Robin led her to the center of the dance floor, which had cleared so that they were the only couple on the floor. The quartet started playing "The Christmas Waltz" and Regina's heart skipped a beat as Robin said: "It's time we finally finished our waltz."
"I agree," she replied, placing her hand on his shoulder as he placed his on her waist. They clasped their free hands together before he led them around the dance floor. She followed him with ease as the skirt of her dress swirled around her.
"I saw your speech," she told him as they made tiny circles around the dance floor. "It was wonderful."
He smiled. "I owe it all to you."
She shook her head. "The words were always there. You had to listen to your heart rather than your head."
"I'm listening to my heart now," he told her.
"And what's it saying?" she asked, her heart speeding up as the music started to crescendo.
He twirled her away from him before spinning her back. As she reached him again, he dipped her, looking into her eyes as he said: "I love you, Regina Mills."
"I love you too, Prince Robin of Sherwood," she replied, letting him place her back on her feet. She wrapped her arms around his neck, not caring that the entire town of Storybrooke was watching them. They were just extras, after all.
Robin closed the gap between them and pressed his lips to hers, capturing them in a sweet kiss. She sighed into it as he held her close, almost feeling like her Robin but not quite. But she did not break the kiss, wanting to soak up every last iota of affection any version of Robin could give her.
Cheers erupted around them and when they broke the kiss, Robin laughed as he held her close. He kissed the side of her head as she clung to him, now regretting that she kept trying to hurry this moment. She never wanted this to end and didn't want to return to a world without Robin.
"Are you okay?" he asked her, whispering so the others couldn't hear him.
"I missed you," she admitted. "And I don't want to lose you again."
He brushed some hair from her face as he smiled. "You won't. I promise you."
And though his words warmed her heart as he kissed her again, she knew it was a promise he couldn't keep.
"While it's fun to dress up, there's something just so comforting about putting on a nice cozy pair of pajamas," Regina declared, plopping down on the couch next to Robin.
He chuckled, wrapping his arm around her and holding her close. "I have to agree. And these socks are very warm and comfortable."
Robin lifted one of his feet to wiggle it and show off the green socks she had knitted him earlier. He kissed her cheek. "Thank you for making me a pair even if you didn't think I was coming to the ball."
"I guess part of me always knew you would," she said, trying not to chuckle at her own personal joke. After all, she always knew how the movie would end.
"I'm glad to have you both here for Christmas," Daddy said, looking at Queen Eugenia. "I think this will be one of our best in a long time."
Mary Margaret nodded from where she was cuddling with David. "I agree."
They all laughed and conversation continued around Regina. But she slowly tuned it out as her eyes grew heavy. She rested her head on Robin's shoulder, feeling him wrap his arm around her. As his pine scent surrounded her, she let her eyes close before she realized what it meant. Only as she felt herself start to float away from consciousness did it hit her.
Her Christmas movie wish - and her time with Robin - was over.