In a moment, little one. In a moment, Regina thought and hummed softly to Neal when he cooed on the fuzzy blanket she had laid out on the bathroom floor. He gurgled with much vigor, and Regina laughed heartedly. Neal had so many sweet sounds.
Finishing applying mascara to her lashes, Regina looked at herself in the mirror. Not bad. Not bad at all. Her hair had been coiffed. She had decided to have a little fun tonight. She always straightened her hair, but tonight she was opting for letting her natural curls come out to play. And that was a good decision. The curled hair made her look ready to go to a party. And that was what tonight was. A party. A celebration.
She had also splurged and bought herself a new dress. As much as Emma loved the red dress, Regina had grown a bit tired of it. The dress she was wearing tonight was turquoise, knee length and was belted at the waist. It accentuated her curves, and Regina was very satisfied with that. The dress looked good on her. It hugged her curves in exactly the right way. And it did display a little bit of cleavage too. Not too much, but not too little either. Regina was entirely satisfied. She smiled as she fastened a pearl necklace around her throat. The scars on her neck was gone. That was worth a celebration too. She had just stepped into her look-at-my-neck era.
Her shoes were new too. High heels that nearly made her as tall as Emma. And with very narrow noses. She would definitely regret wearing these shoes by the end of the evening, but she did not care. Tonight she wanted to shine.
Neal gurgled as though reminding her that time was ticking. He was right. Regina picked him up and held him close. Their little fox. He looked so adorable in that rust red fox suit complete with paws and a bushy tail. And of course the matching red hat with fox ears and everything. He went 'gu-gu-gu' as she teasingly squeezed him, and Regina hoped that he wouldn't be dribbling on her tonight. Not when she was this dressed up. She hoped that Neal would be a good little fox tonight. A well-behaved little fox.
She brushed a curl behind her ear and carried the baby into the living room.
Emma had gotten ready too. My, how she had gotten ready. Just looking at her made Regina a little dizzy. Emma was wearing black dress pants, a white button up, a black blazer that matched the pants, and a narrow tie. Emma was wearing a suit. Goodness gracious. Emma had said that she wanted something a little different tonight. She had murmured something about not necessarily wanting to wear a dress. Regina had been intrigued and curious, and she was thrilled about the result. Emma looked so good in that suit. But it wasn't just that the fact that she of course was ridiculously attractive in that outfit. It was seeing her step out of Mary Margaret Blanchard's shadow and wear exactly what she wanted to wear. Good for her. And good for Regina. There was just something about women in suits. There was something about Emma in a suit. It took everything in Regina to remember that she was holding a baby. And that they had plans. She continued her silent inspection of Emma.
Emma had created a French braid along her hairline, wrapped it around the rest of her hair which had been tied into a ponytail. She was wearing a Bordeaux shade of red lipstick, and her eye makeup was darker than usually. It made Emma look dangerous. In the highly sexy way. Regina was very happy to see that Emma was wearing the little diamond studded earrings she had borrowed from her. Those really suited her.
Emma looked absolutely glorious tonight. Stunning. Regina felt weak in the knees.
Emma turned her head. "Oh, wow!" She gasped. "You look gorgeous!"
Regina gave a proud, happy smile and did a spin despite the baby in her arms. She sort of hoped that Emma would notice how the dress clung to her body.
"Look at you," Emma said. "You look fan-freaking-tastic!"
Fan-freaking-tastic? That was a new one. Regina chuckled. Looked down at the baby in her arms. He was making sounds. Maybe he had liked the little spin.
"Aww," Emma cooed, mostly likely because of the sound (but it could also be because of his outfit) as she walked over to them. She tickled Neal's cheek. "Hey kid, what does the fox say?"
"Guuuh," said Neal.
"No, not quite," Emma chuckled.
"Fraka-kaka-kaka-kaka-kow," Henry said as he came trotting into the bedroom, and Regina did not get the chance to wonder what on earth that meant before he continued: "mom, aunt Z just texted me. She'll be here in five minutes to pick me up!"
Perfect. Regina smiled at her son.
"Wow," Henry said as he looked at both of them. "You guys look really nice."
"Thanks, kid." Emma ruffled his hair fondly. "That's really sweet of you."
Yes, it was. Regina beamed at him.
"And Nealy look adorable," Henry gushed, now looking at Neal.
"Yes, doesn't he?" Emma grinned. "I think this one beats the dragon outfit."
"Totally." Henry touched Neal's little hand.
Neal made another 'gah-gah-gah' sound.
"You're his favorite, kid."
"You think so?"
"Absolutely." Emma winked at him.
Henry smiled. Then pouted slightly. "I really wish I could come with you."
"Next time," Emma promised. "If there will be a next time, I mean. Then you'll definitely have to come with us."
"Of course there will be a next time, Ma," Henry said in that tone suggesting that his next statement would be accompanied by an eyeroll. "Your book is awesome! That's why people keep buying it."
Indeed. Regina chuckled and nodded her head. Henry was very right about that.
"I just hope that someone will actually show up tonight," Emma said, worrying her for-the-night Bordeaux red bottom lip.
Stop it. Deciding to crunch Emma's insecurities as quickly as she could, Regina handed the baby to Henry so she had her hands free to sign: 'of course people will show up. Malena wouldn't have arranged it if there wasn't any interest.'
"I know that," Emma nearly groaned. "I'm just nervous that's all. Being a published author is something I've wanted for as long as I can remember, and I suppose I still find it difficult to believe that I've actually achieved it. It's so unreal."
Understandable. After all, Emma's dreams were coming true tonight. That was a big deal. A very big deal. Regina put a gentle hand on Emma's shoulder.
"I'm silly," Emma said.
'You're not,' Regina signed. None of Emma's fears or concerns were 'silly'.
"She's right," Henry agreed. "You're not silly, Ma. You're just nervous. And that's okay."
Regina was just about to agree with her son and compliment him for being a very clever boy, but before she could do that, there was a knock on the front door, followed by Zelena bellowing: "Yo-hoo! I've come to take a kid away!"
Mildly alarming, Regina dryly thought to herself. Zelena could have used a different choice of words. But naturally, Henry thought it was funny. He laughed as he bolted out of the room with Neal in his eyes.
"Be careful!" Emma chided after him. "And not just because you're holding the baby!"
'He kidnapped the baby,' Regina smartly observed.
"He sure did," Emma chuckled. "Wanna go downstairs and steal him back?"
Good idea. Regina nodded.
"Let's do it then." Emma took her hand, and Regina took the opportunity to squeeze her hand. Then brush her thumb over the soft spot between Emma's thumb and index finger. Then they headed downstairs to get their baby back.
That proved to be a difficult endeavor. Because Zelena had stolen the baby from Henry and was currently fawning over him. It had to be the outfit, Regina thought to herself. And of course the fact that Zelena was expecting her own baby. She was starting to show a little bit. Had a sweet little bump going on. It suited her to be pregnant. As cliché as it sounded, Zelena was glowing. Happier than ever. It was lovely to see.
"Where on earth did you find this hat?" Zelena asked without any initial type of greeting. "I have buy one for little munchkin!"
"Hey, Zelena," Emma drawled teasingly.
"My apologies," Zelena said, at last looking at them. "Hello. Don't you two look sharp tonight."
"Thank you," Emma said.
Regina smiled at Zelena.
"Now..." Zelena continued. "Are you both quite sure that I shouldn't take young Neal as well as my darling nephew? Surely, it'll be stressful for you to bring the baby to a book signing event?"
'I don't think Neal would appreciate going to the cinema with you.', Regina dryly observed, wiggling her fingers and feeling a bit amused because Zelena's motives were pretty clear. She wanted more time with Neal.
"I suppose you're right about that." Zelena gave a little sigh as she reluctantly handed Neal back to Regina. She then fished out her car keys and gave them to Henry. "Why don't you run along and find a decent song on the radio? But not one with swear words in it, thank you very much."
"Okay," Henry said briskly and gave first Regina and then Emma a hug. "Bye, mom. Bye, Ma! Sign lots of books!"
"I'll try my best, kiddo." Emma ruffled his hair slightly.
Regina gave Neal to Emma and brushed a hand over the button down Henry was wearing. It looked a bit crumpled, didn't it? Was there any chance it had ended up at the bottom of his closet? She was well aware that he was 'just' going to the cinema, but nevertheless…
"Mooo-ooom! Neal's the baby of the family! Not me!"
Ignoring Henry's remark and Emma's amusement, Regina gav her sister and son the usual reminders. 'Not too many popcorn. The small size is plenty for you. The same rule applies for cola. Don't stay up too late, and no television after nine.' She was sort of hoping that he wouldn't be watching television at all. He didn't need to watch television after having been to the movies.
"We already know all that, sis," Zelena said patiently and rubbed her belly as Henry slipped on his shoes and coat and disappeared out of the house.
Quite cheeky of him to make himself scarce in the middle of her lecture, but Zelena's belly rubbing was distracting her. Regina smiled.
"Little munchkin is growing steadily and providing her mama with some tremendously horrible nausea," Zelena said dramatically.
Regina didn't buy into it, though. Zelena already looked so much better. Was she seriously over the worst nausea already? Not fair. Regina had been horribly sick when she was pregnant with Henry. She hadn't stopped throwing up until she was fifteen weeks pregnant. It had been a nightmare.
"Her?" Emma echoed and tilted her head curiously. "You know the gender?"
"No, that'll be a surprise." Zelena rubbed her belly again. "I just have a feeling that it's a girl."
'I would love to get a nice,' Regina signed. A little girl in the family wouldn't be so bad.
"I would love to get a daughter." Zelena laughed a tad exasperated. "That is, if Chad and I ever could agree on a name."
"He's still not a fan of Kelly?"
"No, and I can't imagine why!"
I can. I absolutely can. No offense to all the Kelly's out there, but that name would always remind Regina of a certain blonde girl from Beverly Hills whom she couldn't stand. Seriously, there had been times where she had to switch off the television because Kelly Taylor came into view. Kudos to Jennie Garth for doing such a convincing job.
"Oh well, maybe we'll end up settling on Juniper."
Juniper? Seriously? Regina raised an eyebrow. She really could not imagine her niece being named 'Juniper'. But that was Zelena for you. She always had to experiment.
"There is nothing wrong with the name Juniper, little sis."
Regina snorted, not agreeing. But her plan of signing something bitingly sarcastic in return, was thwarted when the baby was handed back to her. She cradled Neal into her chest as Emma disappeared into the kitchen. Regina heard some rustling and deduced that Emma was grabbing the big bag full of Neal's stuff. That bag was pretty much essential. They always brought that bag with them everywhere, and thus also today. A moment later, Emma returned to the hallway, carrying said bag. She unzipped the bag and crouched down in front of it, quickly rummaging through the items in it. "Let's see, we've got formula, bottle, extra set of clothes, pacifier, another pacifier in case the first one gets lost, blanket, a bib and not to mention a ridiculous amount of diapers." She looked at Regina. "Have we forgotten anything?"
Regina shook her head. Nope, that rather sounded like they had remembered everything.
"Great." Emma zipped the bag and hoisted it over her shoulder. "We're all set then."
"Are you two sure that I shouldn't take the baby?"
"Hey, it's bad enough that you're taking one of our kids. Don't take our other too!"
Zelena was amused by Emma's comment. "Very well, I better get going before Henry decides to take the car for a joyride..."
Excuse me?! Perhaps Emma was amused, but Regina was definitely not, and she stared at her sister.
"That was a joke, sister dear," Zelena drawled. "Don't worry. Chad hasn't taught him how to steer the car. Yet."
Okay, that's enough. Regina gave her sister's arm the lightest of whaps.
"Rattling a pregnant woman!" Zelena said, showing off her acting chops. "I think it's high time I'm out of here."
With that, she simply left. But Regina and Emma were right behind her. Coats were quickly wrestled on. Regina carried Neal. Emma carried the big bag. At the cars, they parted ways and said goodbye to Zelena.
"Good luck on the book signing," Zelena said, getting into the car. "Henry, turn that bloody radio down!"
"Thanks. Have a nice evening!"
Henry waved to them from the backseat. Regina blew him a kiss. Then they took off. She didn't doubt that Henry would have a great night at his aunt's.
With Henry successfully 'delivered', Regina and Emma could get on their way too. Neal's car seat was waiting for him on the backseat in the Mercedes, and Regina quickly and carefully strapped him in. Neal had no issues with that. He actually looked a bit sleepy. Perfect. It would suit Regina just fine if he fell asleep during the book signing.
When Neal was strapped in, Regina turned around and tossed her car keys at Emma.
"Ooooh, you're letting me drive your car again," Emma hummed, elegantly catching the keys before they landed on the ground. "Nice!"
Yes, indeed. Regina snorted softly as she got onto the passengers seat. She happened to know how much Emma loved driving the Mercedes.
"Okay, let's do this thing." Emma sounded fairly excited, but her face was a bit pale, and her gaze flickered a bit as she climbed onto the driver's seat.
Neal gave a little coo as to show that he was ready to go. Regina turned her head to check on the little man.
"Little fox doing okay?" Emma asked, starting the car and driving away from the house.
Regina nodded and eased back into a normal position.
"And are you doing okay?"
Now Regina smiled. Emma was teasing. 'I am doing wonderful,' she signed. 'How are you feeling?'
"Nervous," Emma admitted. "But it'll be okay. Do you want to listen to some music?"
Sure. Regina nodded. Why not.
Emma switched on the radio and pressed the buttons until she found a song Regina recognized. Only You.
"That's our song," she said warmly.
Regina smiled. She wasn't used to having a song with someone. But she loved it. She loved that this particular song was so full of memories for her. For them.
"We danced to this song," Emma said fondly. "Do you remember that?"
Yes. Of course. How could I forget? She smiled widely.
"And we made out afterwards," Emma continued, now looking a bit mischievous. "Do you remember THAT?"
Mhmm. Definitely. Regina was sure her smile matched Emma's.
"I wouldn't be opposed to a bit of that later," Emma said and lowered her voice a bit. "Could I interest the lady in a bit of kissing later?"
Regina laughed as she nodded, and the way her fingers moved in the air as she signed: 'That sounds good.', was almost amused.
"It's a date."
"Guuuh!"
"And you are not invited, kid," Emma told him and laughed. "So you better not be fussing later."
"Gahhhh!"
"He's rebelling against me."
Hardly. Regina chuckled softly and then began to hum along to the song. That was something she had started doing quite recently. Humming. It wasn't quite what the doctor had ordered, but it was a start, right? A slow beginning or something. It definitely was the sound of her voice. It was her using her voice. Just like the doctor had said.
"Woops, we turn right here!"
The wheel was pulled, and the car took a sharp turn to the right. Neal whimpered. Regina turned her head and scowled slightly. This was not exactly a way to drive, was it?
"Sorry guys," Emma said sheepishly. "I'm sorry. I got distracted."
Indeed? Regina clicked her tongue to show that she wasn't very satisfied with that answer. Or Emma's driving.
"You're never gonna let me drive your car again, are you?" Emma sounded joking, but Regina could hear some real concern underneath, and she chose to tease a little. She didn't concern or deny it. Just settled for giving a mysterious little Mona Lisa smile.
"I'm totally focused on the road from now on," Emma assured. "Scouts honor!"
Regina believed her, but Neal didn't. He was squirming and gurgling, and Regina had to reach back and caress his cheek. She hoped that this wasn't turning into a screaming fit. Perhaps some music would help? 'Only You' had stopped playing, and Regina flicked around between the channels until she found something worth listening to. Classical music, at last.
"Well, if that doesn't lull the kid right off to dreamland," Emma quipped. "Is that Beethoven?"
It was indeed. Regina nodded and felt proud. Emma's knowledge of classical music was getting better and better.
"See, I'm learning." Emma puffed out her chest, and Regina's gaze slipped lower than intended. It hadn't escaped her notice that Emma's button was quite tight. Nor had it escaped her notice that Emma's breasts looked-
"Now who's getting distracted?"
Regina huffed and tried to look haughty. She wiggled her fingers in the air and pointed out: 'I am not driving.'
"True that."
Regina nodded. And couldn't bother taking her eyes off of Emma's chest. She couldn't help looking. Emma looked so awfully good in that shirt.
"Right, that doesn't distract my driving. At all. Nu-uh."
Happy to hear it. Regina laughed. And didn't look away.
"Just because I'm the one driving you think it's free real estate, Mills," Emma said sternly. But the sternness didn't last long. Her face loosened up in an easy smile. "I love when you're looking at me like that. Don't stop."
Wasn't planning on it. Regina kept her gaze on Emma's cleavage. God, there was just something about that shirt. And that tie. Regina licked her lips. She was thinking about things she probably shouldn't think about when there was a baby in the backseat. But she couldn't help it. Not when Emma looked so utterly sexy and tempting and all kinds of delicious in that suit.
"Okay, maybe you should stop looking at me," Emma said a bit croakily.
Regina laughed. She was quite satisfied with her own doing.
"I thought I was looking forward to the book signing event, but now I'm actually looking more forward to coming back home…"
Easily understanding what Emma meant, Regina gave her knee a gentle squeeze.
Neal cooed. As to remind them that he was still here. Maybe that coo was baby language for 'I am not planning on giving you any time to kiss tonight!'.
"You know what, I think he loves Beethoven."
Emma's statement was followed by a coo and a gurgling sound from the backseat. One that had Regina turning her head immediately. That had sounded a bit dubious.
"Did he spit up? Should we pull over?"
False alarm. Regina turned her upper body back to normal and smiled.
"Just a gurgle?"
Just that. Regina nodded.
"Oh. Thank god. I couldn't have coped if he had wrecked his fox outfit before we even arrived," Emma joked. "I'm pretty sure that outfit is my favorite so far. It's even better than the bear one. And the dragon one. But we won't tell Malena that."
Regina chuckled. No, god forbid that Malena should find out the dragon suit wasn't their favorite. She would be devastated.
When they arrived at Dragon Publishing's headquarters, Emma looked anxious. Regina understood her, but she was thrilled. The parking lot was full of cars. Many people had come for the book signing event. Exactly as Regina had expected.
"This is nerve wracking," Emma commented as she parked the car. She glanced at the many cars. "Holy shit!"
Regina turned her head and smiled big and proud at her partner. I told you so, didn't I? I told you that there would be interest!
"All of these people... came to meet me?" Emma whispered.
Yes, my darling. Regina put a hand on her arm.
"Oh wow," Emma murmured. "This is... wow."
Regina squeezed her arm. It was definitely 'wow'. It was more than wow!
"I suppose we better go inside," Emma mumbled and fidgeted with her seatbelt.
Regina silently agreed to that and unbuckled her own seatbelt. Then they exited the car. Emma had the bag with baby supplies, and Regina opened the door to the backseat and lifted Neal's car seat out. He could easily stay there for the time being.
Emma grabbed her free hand and squeezed it. Regina squeezed back. She hoped that Emma wasn't too nervous about this. Everything would be just fine. Emma would do a marvelous job at meeting her readers and interact with them.
"Milady," Emma quipped as she opened the door for Regina.
Emma was so gallant always. Regina smiled as she walked through the open door with Neal. He gave another little coo.
"Do you think it was a good idea to bring him?" Emma asked. "I know that Zelena and Henry couldn't exactly take him to the cinema with them, and Ruby and Dorothy had plans, but..."
Sensing that Emma was trailing off and starting to ramble, Regina gave her hand a squeeze again. Everything is going to be fine.
"I didn't think I'd be this nervous," Emma sighed. "It's ridiculous." She stopped briefly and listened.
Regina had heard it too. The sound of people muttering excited from one of the conference rooms.
"It sounds like there are so many people!" Emma hissed.
She was starting to sound genuinely stressed out. It was time for an intervention. Holding Emma's hand a bit tighter, Regina elegantly steered her away from the door and into a sort of niche where they couldn't be spotted easily by someone walking past.
"What are we doing here? I think we passed the right door, beautiful."
Regina gently sat down Neal's car seat on the floor, so she had her hands free. 'I know', she signed.
"So what are we doing here?" Emma asked.
'You are nervous. I want to help you.'
"Okay? And exactly are you planning on doing that?"
There was a very simple answer to that. Regina leaned in and kissed her partner. Emma made little 'oh' sound into the kiss. It was almost a squeak, really. Dreadfully sexy. Then she returned the kiss and cupped Regina's cheeks.
Regina answered by looping her arms around Emma's waist and bringing their bodies flush together. Caught herself wondering what kind of underwear Emma was wearing tonight. Damn shame that both of them hadn't gotten changed in the living room. The idea Regina had had of keeping her outfit a secret until they were leaving, had been rather silly. Had she not had that silly idea, she would have known exactly what kind of underwear Emma was wearing right now.
Emma tugged at her bottom lip. The tug was unexpected, and Regina gasped slightly. Felt very, very happy when Emma slung an arm around her neck. Pressed her lips harder against her own. What Regina wouldn't give to feel Emma's hands on her right now. There was a slight possibility that she had forgotten the reason why they were here. Hadn't they just come here to kiss each other senseless? Wasn't this niche made for such activities?
Perhaps it was. Regina was certainly willing to pretend that was the case. She reached up and gave Emma's tie a little pull. Then chuckle softly into the kiss when Emma moaned the littlest bit into her mouth. She squeezed Emma's hips gently. Gave her a little shove and gently pressed her up against the wall. She was feeling a little bit adventurous tonight, and she knew how much Emma loved when she did this. Took charge. Became a little bossy. Emma had called it 'damn sexy'. And that was exactly what Regina wanted to be right now. Damn sexy.
"Hrm, hrm."
They were not alone in the hallway anymore. Oh. Regina didn't know whether she was the first to pull back, or Emma was, but either way, Regina was annoyed at the interruption. At least she was until she turned her head and saw that it was Malena, who had interrupted them. They had in fact not come to kiss here tonight. They were actually here for a reason. Oh, right.
"I'm certainly a fan of declarations of feelings but declaring said feelings in the middle of a hallway might not be the best idea," Malena said with that dry humor Regina knew so well and bared her teeth. "And especially not when it delays my newest author."
"Point taken," Emma said lightly and adjusted her only slightly crooked tie.
'Sorry' Regina mouthed.
"The hell are you sorry for?" Emma laughed and shook her head in protest. "I was having a pretty awesome time."
So was Regina. But she was still sorry, though. Not for the kiss or the crooked tie. But delaying Emma hadn't been the intention.
"Miss Swan. You look very professional," Malena complimented as she came closer to them.
Definitely professional. And ridiculously sexy.
"Thank you."
Malena turned her attention to Regina then. "Dear," was all she said as her gaze briefly flickered to Regina's now visible throat. "You look like you're doing very well."
'I am, thank you,' Regina signed, and Emma effortlessly translated for her.
"Good," Malena said simply. "Keep that up. I do so like when you're doing well."
That remark was so quintessential Malena. Regina laughed softly. Saw Malena stiffen visible in surprise and realized that Malena hadn't heard her laugh until now. Oh.
"As I live and breathe," Malena said and flashed Regina a smile. "That sounded magnificent, dear."
Regina flashed her oldest friend a smile. She too was rather satisfied with that sound.
"Guuuu-guuuu," said Neal from the carrier.
Regina had nearly forgotten that he was there, and she immediately felt a little guilty for that. She picked up the carrier.
"Well, well," said Malena. "So that's your little lodger."
"Yup, this is Neal," Emma introduced.
"He's not scared of dragons, is he?" Malena asked as she carefully approached Regina and Neal.
"Nope," Emma chuckled.
"Excellent." Malena gently touched Neal's cheek with a long finger. "Hello, little gem. Aren't you quite the sweet little one?"
Neal gave a gurgle and grabbed eagerly after Malena's long blonde hair with his little hands.
"Someone likes blondes," Malena said dryly. But her eyes were sparkling.
"Or just long tempting hair," Emma laughed. "He constantly tries to grab my hair."
"My point still stands then," Malena, tickling Neal's cheek lightly and then murmured: "yes, I might need one of these myself."
"A baby?"
Regina lifted an eyebrow. This was definitely new. Never before had Malena expressed the desire to have kids. And one thing was certain about Malena. She was not the type to get spontaneous ideas. When she voiced the desire to do something, there was a fair chance that it would happen.
"Yes," Malena said lightly. "I'm sure I would make a mother of sorts. And I do believe that Ursula would want children at some point. I'm sure she has mentioned it sometimes." She tickled Neal's cheek again. "I think she and I will have to have another chat about the subject soon. I do believe Neal has just made my biological clock ticking or some nonsense like that."
Well then. Regina chuckled slightly and earned herself a smile from Malena. She would love to be as casual about life changing events as Malena.
"Anyway." Malena turned her attention to Emma and smiled at her. "Your readers are waiting, miss Swan. Shall we go in there and meet them? Preferably before I suffer a meltdown due to stress and Ursula has to come and scoop me up from the floor."
"Let's do it," Emma said and appeared to be squaring her shoulders slightly.
"Chin up," Malena said, displaying that soft side the rest of the world hardly got to see but Regina was so familiar with. "The people waiting for you are your fans, Emma. They're not here to roast you, alright?"
"Alright." Emma actually lifted her chin a little bit, Regina noted, and she appreciated Malena's little mini-pep-talk.
"That's better," Malena praised and motioned for both of them to move. "Now come on."
They followed Malena down the hallway. Reached a door. Malena turned her head and flashed Emma a smile. Then she opened the door to the conference room. It was empty, but Regina suspected that it wouldn't be for long.
"Now, if you just sit down there, dear." Malena pointed to a table, and once again, Regina felt immensely proud of Emma. That was the Author Table. Emma would be sitting there and signing books. Regina couldn't wait.
Another door was opened. Ursula stepped in. Regina noted that her grey dress was matching the shade of Malena's suit. So they were that kind of couple. How sweet.
"Oh good, our author has arrived," Ursula said and smiled at Regina. Then looked at Neal. "With her youngest fan, I see."'
"Yeah, we couldn't really get a babysitter." Emma grinned. Didn't really sound sheepish at all.
"Well, I'm sure we can find a peaceful place for him to get his beauty sleep should it be required," Mal said and tilted her head as she looked at Ursula. "Isn't he adorable by the way, my darling?"
"Yes," Ursula said, sounding both surprised and happy. "Very much so."
Regina silently hoped that this would stick. She would love to see Malena as a mother.
"Anyway," Malena continued. "If you could just take a seat, miss Swan, and the crowd will be unleashed."
"Okey dokey." Emma sat down behind the table.
With a soft hand on her shoulder, Malena guided Regina to another chair. "No reason for you to stand up all night, dear." Then she went over to the door. "Ready, miss Swan?"
"Yes," Emma said and took the pencil. Her ponytail fell over one shoulder. Regina had the strongest urge to get up and push it away.
"Excellent."
Regina waited and watched in anticipation as Malena opened the door and the room was flooded by people. There was as many teenagers as there was adults, and Regina's heart swelled with pride and smiled beamingly when Emma turned her head and looked at her. It's all for you, darling. They're all here to see you. You made it.
"Alright everybody," Malena said in her business-tone. The one that always got everyone's attention. Such also today. "Kindly form a line so we can avoid any shoving. I assure you, everyone will have their copy signed."
A line was formed. Regina watched as a teenage girl stepped up to Emma's table as the first person. She seemed nervous, Regina noted. Starstruck because she was meeting a successful author. God, this was everything Regina ever had wanted for Emma! She smiled as she watched Emma interact with the girl. She was too far away to hear what was being said, but that was alright. She didn't need to hear the conversation in order to know that Emma's first signing was going splendidly.
"It is beyond me why she is so nervous," Malena commented. She was standing next to Regina with her arms lightly folded across her chest. "Just look at her. She is a natural. And she is a phenomenal writer. Thank god you pointed her in my direction."
Yes. Regina nodded. Thank god for that. Thank god for many things. But most of all, thank god for chance encounters on a train. If it hadn't been for that chance encounter, Regina wouldn't be sitting here and basking in her girlfriend's success right now.
"Why, Regina, you can't keep your eyes off of her, can you," Malena sweetly teased.
Regina shook her head. No. No, she could not. She would keep watching Emma all night. Watch her interact with her readers. The second person in line was getting her book signed right now. She was an older lady. Very smiley. Regina could see two pink spots on Emma's cheeks and smiled. Emma always got pink spots on her cheeks when she was being praised.
The woman got her book signed and walked away. Next in line was a man. One that made Emma laugh loudly. Good. Regina loved it when Emma laughed.
Next there was a couple of teenage girls, and after them, none other than Isabelle Gold. Of course. Regina smiled. She doubted Isabelle ever missed a bookish event. Regina was pleased to see her. And even more pleased when Isabelle gave Emma a whole stack of books she wanted signed. Perfect. Regina had a feeling that all of Emma's friends in Steveston had bought the book.
It was when Isabelle left that Emma turned her head and made eye contact with Regina.
Regina smiled at her. She could recognize the look in Emma's eyes. Emma wanted her to come over, but Regina wasn't gonna do that. Not right now. No, this was Emma's evening. Emma's moment. She had deserved that. And Regina did not want to steal the attention in anyway.
After Isabelle came another teenage girl. She took a selfie with Emma. Regina would remind herself to find the hashtag for tonight's book signing event so she could see how many people had attended.
Another teenage girl after her. But this one had Regina a bit more intrigued than the previous. Because after having read what Emma had written in her copy of Twisted Endings, the teenage girl let out a rumbling sound. Regina tilted her head and saw the girl wiggle her fingers in the air. Oh. She was using Sign Language, Regina realized. And Emma was fully capable of interacting with her without an interpreter. That warmed Regina's heart.
After a little while, there was a slight pause in the stream of people coming to see Emma, and Regina took the opportunity to leave Neal in Mal's capable hands (literally) so she could head over to Emma and give her a glass of water.
"Thank you, beautiful," Emma said, smiling in gratitude as she took a sip of the water. "How do you think I'm doing so far?"
'You are doing wonderfully,' Regina signed and returned the smile tenfold. She wished there was a sign for 'fan fucking tastic'.
"Thank you." Emma took her hand. "I miss you though." She kissed her knuckles.
So very silly. Regina smiled. I've been sitting close by all night.
"Where's Neal hanging out by the way?"
Regina pointed lightly to the place where Mal was standing with Neal in her arms. She appeared to have taken quite a shine to him. And vice versa.
"That is adorable. Maybe she wasn't kidding about wanting a baby."
Regina chuckled. Maybe not.
An elderly woman approaching Emma with a copy of Twisted Tales in her hands, had Regina squeezing Emma's hand lightly before heading off again. Emma was far from done. She stayed nearby, though. She wanted to hear what kind of praise the woman had for Emma. Malena came over to her with Neal in her arms, and even though they conversed, Regina had a feeling that both of them were listening in on Emma's conversation with the woman.
"Who's this for?" Emma asked.
"Irene," Regina heard the elderly woman reply. She heard Emma say her name. Saw her sign the book. The woman- Irene- lingered. Asked if she could ask Emma something.
"Of course," Emma said.
"Is she the woman you've dedicated this book to?"
Interesting. Regina made a point of not reacting, but she couldn't quite keep the smile off her face. Neither could Malena.
"She is."
"It was a very beautiful dedication," Irene said, smiling as well. "It must be really nice having your wife with you here tonight. Thank you for signing my book, miss Swan."
"You're… welcome."
"Oh my," Malena said lowly and grinned cheekily at Regina. "What a presumptius reader."
Now Regina reacted and turned her head slightly. She glanced at Emma and smiled at her. To show her that she had heard that. And that she did not mind being mistaken for Emma's wife. Not even in the slightest, no.
There was a little break in the book signing again. This time, Emma came and found her. "Hey, you," she said as she slipped an arm around Regina's waist.
Regina automatically leaned into the touch. She couldn't hold Emma's hands. Was plenty busy holding Neal.
"What a night," Emma murmured. "This is awesome, but I can't wait to lie down. My brain feels like it's been roasted."
Regina chuckled. She understood that.
"I see that Neal has called the quits for tonight," Emma continued and gently touched the heavy 'lump' in Regina's arms that was the sleeping Neal. "Clever little fellow."
Regina chuckled again and carefully maneuvered Neal onto her shoulder so she could wiggle her phone out of her purse and show Emma all the messages Henry had sent her over the night. Regina had made a point of taking as many pictures of Emma as possible. She wanted plenty of memories of this night. Something they could back on and smile about when Emma had published her book number hundred or something like that.
"He has to come along the next time," Emma said firmly. "Did you see that Isabelle was here, by the way?"
"Mmmm." Of course she had seen that.
"She must have coordinated with Ruby," Emma half-chuckled. "I can't believe I didn't know. That was very sneaky of them."
Their conversation was interrupted when more people eagerly came shuffling over to the author table. Emma had to get back to her 'duties'. Regina would have liked to witness it, but Neal was waking up and whining quietly. She knew what that meant. He needed his diaper changed. Very well then. She hoisted the disgruntled Neal up on her shoulder, grabbed the diaper bag with her free hand and made eye contact with Malena for a second to let her know that Neal needed tending to. Malena made a little nodding motion.
Regina carried Neal out of the crowded room and down the little hallway. She had seen a toilet sign earlier, and good thing. Neal was squirming more and more against her shoulder. Clearly unhappy. And wet. Good thing his diaper was thick. Earlier, Emma had joked that they should put two diapers on him. They had laughed a lot about that. And like all the other times, the laughter had come so easily to Regina.
She found the bathroom, and oh yes, there was a changing table. Excellent. Not that Regina had expected anything else. She gently laid Neal down on the changing table and kept one hand on his little belly to make sure he wasn't wiggling anywhere. Neal was a calm baby, but when he needed to get changed, he could get quite impatient.
I'm on my way, little one, I'm on my way, she silently told him as she managed to get a diaper out of the bag. Then a washcloth. Neal wiggled again, and Regina tried to be both quick and effective as she changed his diaper. Neal lifted his chubby little legs and squirmed on the changing table. Regina silently prayed that he wouldn't pee on her. He hadn't done that yet, but you never knew with babies, did you? Someday, he was bound to do it. Or something else that was equally unpleasant. When Henry was a baby, he had almost turned it into a sport. To pee on her. Regina couldn't count the times she had been forced to change into a fresh blouse because Henry had peed on her.
But you're not going to do that, are you, Neal? She silently asked as she took off the dirty diaper and gave him a wash. He gurgled and grimaced at her. Almost as though he was agreeing with her. Maybe he was. Regina smiled softly at the little boy she had come to love so much. It had been a good idea to bring him here tonight. Malena had certainly fallen head over heels for him. It had almost been hard for Regina to get him back earlier. She chuckled lightly. Neal had gotten himself a new admirer tonight. Another admirer. One of many. Neal had a whole army of admirers back in Steveston.
She powdered him and gave him a fresh diaper. Then she pulled up his little velvet pants. There. Now he was ready to party some more. If she was really lucky, he would fall asleep. And remain asleep until they got home.
Regina reached for the pack of diapers, but she was a little too quick. The pack of diapers landed on the floor with soft thud.
"Da-"
She clapped a hand over her mouth, immediately realizing what had been about to happen. She had almost spoken. Had almost said 'damn'. Completely spontaneous. Regina thoughtfully lifted Neal off the changing table and back into the carrier where he settled. She stuffed the bag of diapers away in the bag and looked at herself in the mirror. She touched her throat carefully. Imagined it to be full of words. Unspoken words. Words that wanted out. Words that almost had slipped out of her a moment ago.
Regina had made a pact with herself after the operation. She did not want to speak until she was able to say her own name without stuttering. She didn't want her voice to waver when she reclaimed her identity and said her name. She had tried many, many times at her voice lessons. But she hadn't succeeded.
She listened carefully. The bathroom was empty. There was no one outside either. Everyone was in the conference room, celebrating Emma. No one would hear her if she tried speaking. No one would hear her fail if she did not succeed.
Regina took a deep breath and relaxed her shoulders like her speech therapist had said that she was supposed to do. Relax, Regina. Don't force it. The words will come when they're ready. When you're ready.
She had no idea of whether she was ready tonight or not, but she was going to give it a shot anyways.
Regina opened her mouth and willed the words to leave her mouth.
"Regina… Mills."
For the second time, she clapped a hand over her mouth. This was not a dream, was it? She was not imagining it?
No.
No, she had just… spoken.
Regina blinked as tears filled her eyes. She looked at herself in the mirror. Looked herself firmly in the eyes as she opened her mouth again.
"I…. Am…. Regina…. Mills."
She cupped a hand over her mouth and closed her eyes. Her voice was fragile. Small. But it was hers. She was speaking. Out loud. For the first time in over a year, she was at last talking.
And there was no one around to hear. Except for a baby who didn't understand what this moment meant.
But that was alright.
It was okay.
Because these words…
Her first words….
They weren't meant for anyone.
Not even Henry.
Not even Emma.
They were only meant for one person.
Herself.
She had talked to herself, for herself for the first time.
By finally being able to say her own name out loud, she had at last reclaimed what Killian Jones had taken from her.
Her identity.
She was no longer a silent woman.
She had a voice.
And she could use it.
Regina slowly lowered her hands and looked at herself in the mirror. Touched her throat again. No more scars. No more silence. She was coming back.
And she wanted….
She wanted to tell Emma.
More than anything, she wanted to tell Emma.
Wanted to run out of here, find Emma and share what had just happened.
Emma, Emma, I can talk! Listen to me, I am speaking! Hear my voice!
But she did not do it. Couldn't. This was Emma's night. Regina couldn't take this moment away from her. And besides, when she spoke to her, she wanted it to be just the two of them. They had to be alone. That was their moment. No audience.
So instead of rushing out of there, Regina calmly washed her hands. She did not open her mouth again. Did not speak a third time. It had to wait. Until they were alone, so she finally could tell Emma those precious three words she hadn't been able to say in the time they had known each other.
She took a deep breath and noted that her hands shook as she reached down and picked up Neal's carrier. There was something in her knees too. A certain… wooziness. But she supposed that was to be expected after what just had happened. She looked down at the now calm Neal and tried to ground herself. She couldn't look rattled when exiting the bathroom. She couldn't look like something big had just happened. Not yet. It was Emma's evening.
Regina left the bathroom and joined the crowd in the conference room. When Emma looked at her, Regina knew that her partner did not see anything out of the ordinary…
"Holy moly!" Emma exclaimed and leaned back in her chair.
"Yes, that was quite the successful evening," Malena said. She was busy pouring wine in a glass for Emma, Ursula, and herself.
"I had no idea so many people would show up." Emma came over to Regina.
"What are you talking about, of course people were gonna show up so they could meet the author," Mal scoffed. "You're a success, miss Swan. I don't know when you'll wake up and realize that."
Emma chuckled and wrapped her arms around Regina's waist from behind. "And you've been on baby duty all night, beautiful."
Regina turned around and showed that Neal now was asleep. Cradled against her chest. He'd had a long night.
"Here, let me take him," Emma said softly and took Neal from her before receiving an answer. "Seems only fair. And I'll take him tonight too. You need to relax after having carried him around all night."
Regina smiled and shook her head slightly. It was almost hard to not open her mouth now. She so badly wanted to say something. Wanted to see the look on Emma's face. But not yet, she reminded herself. Not until we are alone.
"I believe a toast is in order," Malena said as she handed out the glasses of wine.
"A toast, huh?" Emma joked as she adjusted Neal in her arms and accepted the glass. "What are we toasting to?"
"To you, miss Swan," Malena said. "My newest discovery."
Regina laughed and Ursula soon joined her.
"Okay then," Emma said a bit awkwardly, but Regina wouldn't have it. Toasting for Emma was entirely appropriate. She had deserved it. She clinked her glass with Emma's and was rewarded with a soft: "cheers, babe."
'Cheers', Regina mouthed. She was playing a dangerous little game. Almost speaking but not quite. God, how she wanted to, but not yet, not yet. She had to stall herself. Settled for sending Emma a mysterious little smile and was sure that Emma looked bot confused and intrigued. That was, until Neal started wiggling in her arms.
"I think we better call it a night," Emma announced. "Little dude needs to be home in his bed instead of running around with us."
"Of course," Malena acknowledged with a nod. "There may be more book signings in the very near future for you, Emma."
"I'll bear that in mind." Emma sounded proud.
So was Regina. So very, very proud!
"And I might have to let you go from the company," Malena continued almost musingly. "I believe that fulltime writing is what you should be doing."
"I would be sad to leave the company," Emma said immediately.
"And I would be sad to let you go," Malena replied. "You are one of the fastest proofreaders I've ever had, but writing should be your day job. Not working for me."
"So I'm fired?" Emma half-laughed.
"If the sale of your book continues to go up and up, you might just be," Malena snickered. "But I do hope you'll continue to use Dragon Publishing for future publishing."
"Count on that," Emma said and glanced at Regina. "This would never have happened if you hadn't recommended Dragon Publishing to me."
Regina smiled. No, indeed it would not.
"Actually, none of this would have happened if I hadn't met you on that train."
Such a chance encounter. A split second. It was strange to think of it as a coincidence. Regina refused to believe it. Something that was larger than life had been at work on that particular day. It hadn't been a coincidence. It had been fate.
"Quite the train ride," Malena agreed and looked at Regina. Smiled a little. "You know, sometimes you really must tell me what you were doing in Toronto, dear."
Oh. Regina thoughtfully looked at her oldest friend. Was aware that Emma moved closer to her.
Regina examined her thoughts. How did she feel about this? Did she want to change the subject? Did she want to excuse herself? Use Neal as an excuse to get out of this situation? Was she still not ready to have this conversation?
"What?" Malena said, brow furrowing as she looked between Regina and Emma. "Have I said something wrong? Again?"
No. She hadn't. Regina shook her head.
"Then I don't understand the look on your face, dear."
Malena was confused. Of course. Anyone would be. Perhaps it was time to stop hiding. This was Malena Drake. Her oldest friend. Her best friend. They used to tell each other everything. Until Killian Jones had forced Regina to carve Malena out of her life. Until he had created this distance between them.
But, Regina realized. Wasn't that what she was doing right now? Creating distance. A distance that would only grow bigger the longer she remained silent about the truth. Wasn't she letting Killian win by staying silent?
Malena was her friend.
And it was time.
Regina was sick of hiding.
She had spoken tonight. She had said her own name aloud and reclaimed her identity. Later tonight, when she got the opportunity, when the chance arrived, she would tell Emma that she loved her. She was full of confidence. She could do this.
Regina turned her head and by making eye contact with Emma, letting her know that she needed her to translate.
Emma nodded.
Regina moved her fingers in the air.
Emma translated: "I would like to tell you about it. But it is going to be a difficult conversation."
"I'm alarmed," Malena said simply, brow still furrowing as she looked at Regina.
'It's a long story,' Regina signed, while Emma said the words aloud.'A very long story. Too long to be told tonight, but I could write you a letter."
Malena's blue gaze bored into Regina's. Regina recognized that look. Malena always looked at her like that when she was trying to figure something out. And Regina could instinctively tell that Malena was close to the truth.
"You know, I often wonder what happened in the months before your accident," Malena said quietly. "Why you suddenly disappeared out of my life. I know that you were getting married, but still..."
Regina tensed for a moment. She did not have the urge to cry. Or throw up. Or shut down. But a shiver still ran down her spine. She still felt uncomfortable.
Emma shifted the baby and wrapped an arm around Regina's shoulder. "It's okay, babe. I'm right here."
Regina shuddered. She looked at Malena.
Malena's eyes darted between them. She frowned. For a moment trying to make everything fit together. Regina saw a whirlpool of emotions in her old friend's eyes. Confusion as she struggled to make everything fit together. Annoyance because she could not. Exasperation because Regina wasn't helping her understand.
And then finally….
Truth.
Regina could see it in her eyes. Could see that Malena had put two and two together and now knew exactly why Regina had disappeared out of her life.
"No..." Malena said quietly. She looked at Regina. "No, surely not! Please, please tell me that I am wrong about this!"
Regina shook her head and her fingers wiggled. 'I can't do that'. Emma translated for her. Tightened her grip on her just a bit. Regina looked at Malena. Silently communicating what she did not sign. It is the truth. He abused me.
Malena tightened her grip on her glass of wine. "Your accident..."
Regina signed again: 'was not an accident. I was hurt by him.' She was endlessly impressed that Emma managed to speak for her. This wasn't just hard for Regina.
Crash. Malena dropped her wine glass on the carpet. A huge red stain appeared. She didn't seem to notice. Nor did Ursula. She too was only looking at Regina.
'I couldn't tell you until now,' Regina signed as Emma translated. 'I didn't know how.' It was not an excuse. It was the truth. Because how do you sit your oldest, best friend down and tell her that you were hurt by the person who was supposed to love you unconditionally? How do you start that kind of conversation when you are too broken to even wanting to think about it?
Malena had gone very pale. She looked sick. For a moment Regina feared that she would actually throw up.
But then Malena exhaled. "May I give you a hug?" she asked, and her voice trembled.
Yes. Regina nodded. Was hugged tight, tighter, tightly by her oldest and best friend in the whole wide world. It was a relief. Yes. It was a fucking relief that Malena knew.
"I could tell you how much I want to kill him for hurting you, but that's probably not what you need right now, is it?" Malena asked softly. She still had her arms around Regina.
Regina gave a wet chuckle and shook her head. She was way past that point. Past the point of wishing death upon Killian Jones. Now she actually wanted to face him. Wanted to ask him why. Not that she ever would tell Emma that.
Malena let her go after a moment. She dried her tears and didn't ask any questions. It was Regina herself who gave Malena the full story. With Emma as translator, Regina told her oldest friend everything. How Killian had started out as right Prince Charming, the realization that Prince Charming was a beast in disguise. How he had become first controlling and then violent. She told Malena about that horrible night where Killian attacked her and stole her voice. She did not tell Malena about the rape. But the look in Malena's eyes told Regina that she most likely had figured that out too.
She told Malena of the time afterwards. The psychiatric ward. Her fear of touch. How she had to learn to trust again. To love. To even be.
Malena cussed Killian out. Called him every bad name in the book and made Regina glad that Neal was too young to understand what was going on. Malena was displaying some incredible foul language right now.
Regina was hugged. Again. And again. And possibly again. She lost track after the fifth hug. Lost track of how long they communicated about the grim secret she had just revealed.
But at some point, Neal began to cry in Emma's arms.
Regina felt tired.
And Malena had a glassy look in her eyes and leaned heavily on Ursula as she murmured that she felt quite overwhelmed.
Poor Malena. First the many people and now this. It was a lot to spring on her in one night, and Regina felt sorry for her. She hated when she made Malena feel overwhelmed. Regina squeezed her hand as Ursula squeezed her shoulder.
Malena sniffled slightly and hugged her again. Tightly. "We'll see each other very soon, right?"
Regina nodded in confirmation and hugged her right back. It was a cleansing hug. A hug between two friends who finally were able to tell each other everything.
Malena let her go after a moment. She pecked Regina's cheek lightly with the words: "Take care of yourself, darling. And let your sweet girlfriend dote on you. I can sense that she wants to."
"Yeah, you got that right," Emma confirmed.
Ursula gently slipped an arm around Malena's waist and smiled at Regina. She didn't say anything. She didn't need to.
Regina had a feeling that Ursula would dote on Malena tonight, and once again she was so, so happy Malena and Ursula had found each other. She returned the smile and turned to Emma who was hoisting the baby bag up on her shoulder. "Ready to head home, babe?"
Regina nodded gently took Neal from Emma and placed him in the carrier. He was still unhappy. Wanted to go home now. There was no way around it. Regina and Emma had to make haste as they bid their goodnight to Malena and Ursula…
In the car, Regina and Malena texted non-stop. Malena was almost ranting through text and writing all the questions and words she hadn't been able to express because she was overwhelmed. Regina took it all in strides. Told her friend everything. No more secrets.
"Are you okay?"
Regina nodded as she put her phone away again, nearly biting her tongue not to say 'yes' out loud. Now was still not the time to speak.
"That was really brave."
Regina smiled at the compliment and wiggled her fingers in the air to say what she was thinking. 'It was time to tell her the truth.'
Emma put a hand on her knee. "I'm so proud of you. You know that, right?"
Yes. Regina was in doubt of many things in this world. But Emma's feelings was not one of them. She patted Emma's hand lightly.
"My god, Malena knows how to curse. I had no idea she could curse like that."
Regina chuckled softly. No, not many people knew that Malena could cuss like that. Regina considered herself to be one of the 'lucky few'.
Her phone chimed in her purse. Regina fished it out and checked the message. It was Malena again.
"Is that her texting you?"
Regina nodded and answered the text. There was many things they needed to talk about, her and Malena. Many, many things. Malena had many questions. Regina answered them all. Malena had many comments. Some of them made Regina smile, while others were a bit more serious.
Emma squeezed her knee now and then. Regina patted her hand to assure Emma that she was not going anywhere. Not freezing up like she had done in the past.
give a little squeeze now and then. Just to remind the brunette that she was there.
"Guh-guh-guh," Neal snuffled from his car seat.
"You rocked your first book signing event, kid.
The statement caused Regina to laugh as she looked back at Neal. He appeared to be satisfied. So was she. She was happy that Malena knew the truth now. Even though she had not planned on telling her tonight.
But then again, many things she hadn't planned on happening, had happened tonight, and Regina found that she was capable of pushing the memories of Killian Jones out of her mind in favor of the anticipation she was feeling. Not long now. Soon she would be able to show Emma that she could speak…
They arrived home. Regina texted 'good night' to Malena and exited the car. Lifted Neal's carrier from the backseat.
Emma was right behind her. And she was scolding her as she followed her. "Hey, I'm supposed to carry the baby "You've been carrying him all night. Your arms are tired!"
Regina chuckled slightly as she went up to the porch. Even more so when she heard Emma grumble behind her.
Emma unlocked the door and then went inside. Regina couldn't help but groan when she wiggled out of her high heels. Yes, it had definitely been a mistake to wear these heels tonight. Her feet would be so sore tomorrow.
Emma plucked Neal out of her arms with the words "I'll get this little man shipped off to dreamland".
Regina vaguely tried to protest, but she had to admit defeat when Emma pecked her lips and said: "you've been on baby-duty enough for the night. You need to relax, Mills." Emma trotted up the stairs with Neal in her arms. "This night took a turn for you."
Yes, in many ways, Regina thought to herself as she followed Emma up the stairs. They parted ways in the hallway. Emma brought Neal into the bathroom, and Regina went inside the bedroom to get ready for the night.
She changed into her grey pajamas, and neatly put the clothes away. When she heard that Emma had brought Neal downstairs for his evening bottle, Regina went into the bathroom and removed her makeup. That felt almost as good as it had felt to take off her dress. And heels. And stockings. Maybe she would just wear sweatpants tomorrow. That would be absolutely incredible. And so would staying in bed tomorrow. But they probably couldn't do that. They had responsibilities.
Regina stretched on the bed and felt a twinge of anxiety somewhere low in her stomach. She wished that Emma would hurry up. The words were almost burning on Regina's tongue. She was aching to try and talk again. But she didn't want to do it now. She needed Emma next to her. She needed Emma to come back. Regina did not want to speak until then.
And soon she got her wish. Emma came back, carrying Neal. He looked like he was about ready to go to sleep. That was good. But for once, Regina was not focusing on him. Her attention was only on Emma. The anxiety flared within her again. The words were right there. She could almost taste them. However strange that sounded.
"Here, kitty, kitty, kitty," Emma said softly.
Regina gave a purr in response. She didn't exactly want 'meow' to be her first spoken word to Emma.
Neal cooed in Emma's arms as Emma walked over to his crib in the corner of the room. "Alright little dude," Emma she said as she gently put Neal to bed and tucked him in. "We'll see you at your midnight shrieking. Yes, we will, yes we will."
Regina chuckled lightly. Neal's 'midnight shrieking' was infamous. She shifted slightly on the bed so she could watch Emma as she took off her pants, blazer, button up and tie with the words: "I'll move it in the morning." Regina was going to hold her to that promise. She couldn't stand clothes on the floor.
Emma took off her bra and gave a little groan in response. "Ahh. That's better!" then she walked over to the closet and grabbed one of the tanktops she slept in. Slipped it over her head.
Come on, Regina silently urged as Emma started to work on her hair. Come on, hurry up, I have something I need to tell you. Come on, come on. Oh, why couldn't Emma just hurry a little? Regina needed her by her side. She needed her in bed with her so she could look into Emma's eyes and say the most important words in her life.
A grim secret had been revealed tonight. Now Regina was burning to reveal another and far less grim secret. One that would make Emma so, so happy.
"Damnit!"
Regina flinched at the sudden exclamation and lifted an eyebrow.
"It's tangled," Emma complained and gestured to her hair. "I could use your magic fingers to untangle it."
Magic fingers, really? Regina couldn't help but cackle. Because of the choice of words. And because she was imagining the look of Emma's face if she chose to answer the joke which actual words.
She didn't. No. Her first words to Emma wouldn't be a teasing remark either.
"Magic fingers. Nice," Emma snorted. "I totally sat myself up for that one, didn't I?"
Regina snickered as she nodded. She was happy to see that Emma hurried a bit more now. Emma didn't even brush her teeth. She merely stumbled over to the bed and climbed up, nearly collapsing next to Regina.
"God, I'm absolutely roasted!"
Regina nodded. She was tired too.
"You feeling okay?" Emma asked, rolling onto her side so they were face to face.
Regina nodded again and started to play with Emma's hair. As she often did before they went to sleep. But tonight she was also doing it because she was a little nervous and was trying to calm herself. The right moment was getting closer and closer. She could feel it.
"Good. That's good. I was just checking," Emma said softly and cupped her cheek. "Telling Mal and Ursula has to be really overwhelming for you."
Regina nodded and moved her fingers from Emma's hair so she could sign. 'The truth had to come out.'
"Yeah, I suppose so. But it didn't happen the way you had intended it to, did it?"
'Maybe that's for the best.', Regina signed. No, it hadn't been planned, but so what? Tonight she had been brave enough to tell the truth to her friend. It had felt right. Exactly as saying her own name aloud and reclaiming her identity in a quiet bathroom had felt right.
"Maybe," Emma said. "Either way, I'm so proud of you."
Regina flashed her a smile, proud of herself. She moved her fingers through the air again. 'I'm glad I had you there with me. It made it easier.'
"Good," Emma said and closed her eyes.
Regina resumed playing with her hair again. Scratched her fingers against Emma's scalp and considered it. When should she say something? Now? Or should she wait? God, why was it so hard so determine what the right moment was?
"Mmm," Emma mewled. "That feels really, really nice, babe. I love when you play with my hair."
Regina chuckled softly. She was well aware. Playing with Emma's hair was something they both liked. A lot. Emma had become silent next to her. Had she fallen asleep? Regina felt a twang of disappointment. Not that she minded Emma falling asleep with her face buried in the crook of her neck, but Regina did not want to wait until tomorrow. She wanted Emma to know now. And if Emma had fallen asleep, well.. Then Regina would have to wake her again.
"I love you," Emma suddenly murmured into the crook of her neck.
Oh. So she hadn't fallen asleep after all. Regina was relieved. And nervous. But ready at the same time. Emma had just told her that she loved her. A more appropriate moment than this one simply didn't exist.
She took a breath. You can do this.
She opened her mouth.
You can do this.
She summoned her voice from the place it had hidden for so long. You can do this. You can speak. There is nothing to be afraid of. The words are waiting. The words are mine. They belong to me, as does my voice. No one will ever be able to silence me again.
"I love... you too." The words flowed. Not entirely effortlessly. But she did not stutter. Or whisper. Her voice was audible. For the first time, she had spoken to Emma. Actually spoken.
THUD!
The sound was almost jarring in the quiet bedroom, and Regina thought to herself that with the two other unforeseen events tonight, she should have expected a third one. Of course Emma would react in some way.
But honest to god, in all the ways Emma could have reacted, Regina had definitely not expected that falling out of bed would be the method Emma chose to go with…
To Be Continued…