I'm trash, its been like a year? Sorry! Life got in the way, but I love this story so much I couldn't leave it unfinished.
Hope its worth the wait lol
...
The drive back to Storybrooke had begun no more than two hours after sunrise on Monday morning. Regina and Emma were eager to get home.
Regina heard Emma softly groaning from the passenger's seat, a disturbed napper waking, once more, to the late morning sun.
"It's only been two hours?" Emma sighed, she was hoping they would have been at the Storybrooke limits by now.
Regina nodded slowly, "Not too long over the Housatonic River."
"I can't believe I let you drive," Emma mumbled after a long moment of silence, her still head resting against the passenger side window.
"You didn't let me," Regina smirked, she would be driving whether Emma wanted her to or not; this car was too much power to give up.
Emma grumbled in agreement, knowing full well what Regina meant. "Guess the Evil Queen can never fully give up power, huh?" Emma grinned, lifting her head from the window to look at Regina.
Regina acted innocent for all of a second before her face pulled into a look that perfectly mirrored the Evil Queen's. "Not if it means giving up power like this," Regina said seriously. Her grip on the steering wheel tightened before she revved the car faster and shifted into a higher gear. The open stretch of road before them allowed Regina to push the limits, or the car and the law. Regina slowed back down to the speed limit as the area around them became a little more populated.
"If you don't make the upgrade I will," Regina mused, softly stroking the dashboard. "I'd name her Lola," Regina paused for a moment, "Because she's a showgirl," she singsonged.
"They fell in love," Emma sung in the background, clearly referring- in this particular moment- to Regina and the car.
"We're so young, we have each other," Regina continued to sing. "Who could ask for more?"
Emma rolled her eyes dramatically at Regina, a small laugh erupting from her chest. "If I'm Rico in this situation I will be so mad." Emma joked.
Regina shook her head and took a quick second to look at Emma. "Definitely my Tony."
"Dead?" Emma squeaked, several octaves above normal.
Regina shook her head and laughed. "Okay, perhaps don't deconstruct the song word by word,"
Emma shrugged, "Sometimes ya girl has nothing better to do. I swear the Radio is stuck on a throwback channel in the Station."
"Did the Sheriff just admit to slacking off on the job?" Regina questioned, her tone harsh and anyone but Emma would have taken her seriously. "Because as the Mayor I will have to look into that."
"What?" Emma raised her brows. "Are you going to punish me?"
"Well, I'll have to conduct a full investigation, but I may very well have too." Regina grinned, her eyes still on the road.
Emma winked at Regina, finding no need to voice a response. And soon after that, the two fell into a comfortable silence that occasionally consisted of them singing together when a 'banger' came on.
It was getting too late morning, a time that Emma would happily consider brunch time.
"Hey," Emma said softly.
"Hey," Regina returned.
"Food?" Emma questioned, her stomach looking forward to her first proper meal of the day- because coffee at 7am isn't 'a proper meal.'
"Food," Regina agreed.
And soon enough Regina was pulling off the highway. Easily and quickly finding a small area of shops Regina parked the car. She took a moment to watch Emma struggle, under the weight of her own tiredness, to get up and out of the car.
Regina swiftly moved from her position in the car and began to move towards the small row of shops.
"Leave me here," Emma groaned, leaning on the hood of the car. "I'm too tired to go on,"
Regina stopped walking but refused to turn back. "Maybe you should have gotten more sleep." Regina's grin was wicked, not that Emma could see it- though perhaps she could hear it.
Regina heard gravel stir, Emma's footsteps and a low sultry voice so very close to her ear. "And whose fault is that?"
Emma's hands moved to Regina's waist. Regina felt Emma pull her closer, her back now meeting Emma's front. "I don't know what you're talking about," Regina stated sternly, still refusing to look back to Emma.
"I think you might," Emma's grip tightened, her breath even closer to Regina's ear.
Regina took a deep breath. "Don't blame me," Regina took a few steps away from Emma before turning back to face her. "for the things you begged for."
"Oh?" Emma grinned, quickly moving towards Regina only to wrap an arm around her waist.
Regina nodded, wrapping her arm around Emma's shoulders. "Mhmm,"
The two shared a small laugh and that was enough, arm in arm they walked off towards the smell of food and coffee.
"I'm a little scared," Emma whispered between bites of her breakfast.
"About going home?" Regina questioned gently.
"Snow will have more than a few things to say." Emma stated.
Regina took a deep breath and nodded. "She probably will." Regina moved a hand from her coffee cup and placed it softly on Emma's thigh. "But we can deal with that together," Regina added hopefully.
Emma placed her hand atop Regina's and smiled at the soft gesture. "Together?"
Regina nodded. "Together." Regina entwined her fingers with Emma's. "We're in this together, so whatever Snow's reaction- whatever we face- we will do it together."
"I like that." Emma sighed contently. "Together." She smiled.
Regina smiled softly at Emma hoping to convey her feelings, her love, because she needed Emma to know that she was in this- they were in this together. Regina loved Emma, there was no denying that anymore and Regina was so thankful for this weekend trip- it was truly a trip of a lifetime.
After a classic contrasting breakfast of salad VS cheese toasty, the two women made a move to the adjoining quickie mart. Because, of course, Emma had refused to get back into the car without a large supply of snacks. With that task complete Regina and Emma were back into the car and pulling out onto the highway.
…
"Not long now," Regina spoke softly.
Emma looked up from her book to see the Storybrooke limits sign, a sign that she was oddly happy to see. "And the day is only halfway through."
Regina nodded slowly. "Perhaps we can sneak home and avoid everyone until tomorrow." She laughed a little.
"You, Regina Mills, mother of the century, wants to avoid Henry- our beautiful son?" Emma chuckled.
Regina shrugged. "Another glorious day in this bubble wouldn't hurt me." She grinned, catching Emma's eyes in the rear-view mirror.
Emma hummed in agreement. "Oh, I could do with another day in this bubble."
"Me, you, the entire house to ourselves," Regina said, her voice low and suggestive.
"You need say no more, I'm sold." Emma smiled, her hand slipping across to Regina's right thigh.
And so, it was a plan. Emma messaged the family group chat letting everyone know that wouldn't be home until tomorrow and that was that.
Once getting into town Regina drove quickly and swiftly towards the Mills manor. Regina was quick to pull into the garage, shutting off the engine seconds later and taking no time to stop before getting out of the car.
"Perhaps we should just get our bags later," Regina dramatically shrugged as she walked backwards towards the door.
Emma just about jumped out of the car and followed Regina into the house.
The two couldn't even make it up the stairs, to consumed by each other. To consumed by love and lust. Kissing, bodies pressed together and soon enough Regina was pinned against the foyer wall, Emma's hands roaming her body.
"Em," Regina moaned as Emma's kissing moved to her neck. "So good," Regina whispered breathlessly.
Emma hummed in acknowledgement as she moved her tongue out against Regina's skin and began to make small circles. Regina could feel every movement, her skin- her senses on fire. Then, suddenly her skin was being sucked sharply between Emma's lips. It was the type of pain Regina craved, the type of pain that set Regina's soul of fire.
Emma pulled back a little to lock eyes with Regina. "I want you," Emma almost growled. Arousal, desire and want clear in her eyes.
"Then take me," Regina practically demanded before closing the gap between them and kissing Emma hard.
Regina didn't need to tell Emma twice. Emma's hands were already on a one-way trip down south.
Regina could feel Emma pulling at the zipper on her pants, and soon enough Regina felt Emma's hand slip between fabrics. So close, and yet so far. Regina moaned as Emma began to lightly rub the line along her labia. Regina was so distracted with pleasure that she couldn't truly recognise the rattling sound in the background as keys opening a door until it was too late- until the door was wide open and all she could hear was a loud and shrill shriek.
Emma's hands, Emma's entire body was quick to move away from Regina's and instantly Regina missed the contact. Then it all sort of clicked. Snow was standing in the doorway, staring- wide eye- at the two of them in complete shock.
Emma had retreated, arms crossed and slowly backing away from her mother. Regina, on the other hand, was still, shocked and yet confidently unwavering. Still against the wall, pants untouched- undone and hands by her side.
"Snow?" Emma finally asked her voice a squeak.
Snow's eyes widen even more before falling back to normal. "I'm sorry." She managed, though she made no attempted to hide her eyes or turn away- let alone leave.
"Why are you here?" Regina's voice was stronger, more forceful.
"Plants," Snow shrugged a little and held up a key. "Henry's key," she explained.
"We were gone a few days, not a month." Regina did up her pants before crossing her arms.
Snow nodded awkwardly. "After Emma's message Henry thought it might be a nice thing, and so I offered to help."
Knowing this was Henry's idea Regina couldn't stay mad, however, she still wasn't pleased that Snow was in the foyer- her mouth still open in bewilderment.
"And," Snow began. "We thought you'd be back tomorrow. I didn't think I'd be interrupting," She paused and took a depth breath. "This," Snow said, her hands dramatically gesturing at the two women before her.
"Well, you have," Regina returned quickly.
"Yes," Snow nodded. "What exactly have I interrupted?" She asked cautiously.
Before Regina could answer, Emma, stepped further into the foyer and spoke. "A conversation for tomorrow."
Snow nodded. "Right. Sorry." She seemed sweet and sincere, not that that was helping either Regina or Emma's current moods. "Tomorrow." And with that Snow was gone- front door neatly closed behind her.
"Well fuck," Emma sighed, her hands falling to her sides with a loud slap.
"Not exactly how I imagined telling your mother, but sure." Regina shook her head with a small laugh. Though she was annoyed, she couldn't help but find the humour in it.
Regina noticed a small smile come to Emma's face. "Maybe you got to destroy her happiness after all." Emma sassed
Regina laughed, properly and loudly. "If only I had known that thirty-five years ago."
Emma laughed. "Yep, just fuck the princess and all your woes would have been forgotten."
Regina faked a gag and clutched her chest. "Don't remind me how young you are. The world of technically isn't our friend."
Emma stepped over to Regina and softly held her cheek. "Not my fault you're a cradle snatcher." Emma went in for the kill shot and it completely cracked her up.
Regina was in shock, though still laughing with Emma. Her wit had gotten so much better and faster over the years. "You're 38," Regina quoted Emma from not so long ago. "You're the worst." Regina laughed.
"Not when we get into technically." Emma grinned.
Regina smiled and shook her head. "I hate you."
"You love me." Emma corrected.
"I do," Regina confirmed. "But you're still the worst." She smiled.
Emma nodded. "Can't argue." She shrugged. "So, what's the bet that Snow won't let this age thing go."
Regina groaned a little, not for the serious conversation afoot but because she knew Snow's reaction wasn't going to be easy to deal with. "Not sure she will," Regina paused, taking a moment to think. "She'll be happy we're happy, but I think she will always resent the fact that I'm dating her daughter."
"You aren't all that bad." Emma joked. "A tiny precious little kitten, in wolf's clothing."
"Thanks," Regina drew out as she gave Emma a small laugh and an eye-roll.
"You know her opinion doesn't matter to me, right?" Emma asked softly. A tender caress of Regina's arm.
Regina scrunched up her face a little and made a noise that sounded somewhat like agreeance.
"Well, to clarify," Emma said loving as her hand moved to Regina's cheek. "Her opinion about this doesn't matter because I love you and you make me happy."
Regina looked curiously at Emma for a moment. "Do you think Charming knows yet?"
Emma smiled and let out a small chuckle. "Probably."
"I was at least hoping to tell Henry." Regina said, assuming he too would already know.
"Same," Emma agreed softly. "Now, rewinding for a second. I need you to hear me when I say Snow's opinion doesn't matter to me and won't change the fact that I love you."
Emma knew deep down that Regina knew that, but Emma needed her to acknowledge it.
Regina smiled softly as she wrapped her arms around Emma's waist to draw her closer. "I know, and I love you too. I'm just not looking forward to the mental drain that Snow's reaction is going to have."
"Neither, but at least we can work through it together." Emma kissed Regina as if to reassure her.
…
The next morning came sooner than either Regina or Emma wanted. The coffee they were drinking didn't seem to help all that morning. A night they had hoped to spend naked and under the covers turned into one of emotions and serious conversations.
Emma had woken up first, after very little sleep, to the sound of her phone ringing. Snow has called at the earliest acceptable hour. She too had had a sleepless night and practically begged Emma to let her bring Henry and Charming over so they could share the news. Emma, in a sleepy haze, had agreed to a 9am breakfast at the Mills manor.
"Sleepy you isn't to be trusted," Regina groaned from behind her coffee mug- though, there was a small smile on her lips.
Emma laughed. "Ah yes, sleepy me as gotten awake me in so a lot of trouble over the years."
"Consider yourself in trouble." Regina sassed as she placed her mug down onto the kitchen island.
Regina watched as Emma pouted as screwed up her face. "Me no likey."
Regina shook her head with a laugh. "Me no likey that your parents are due here in," She checked her watch. "Two Minutes."
"At least they're bringing the breakfast?" Emma winced a little and forced a grin.
Regina nodded slowly and hummed in agreement. "I still can't believe she hasn't told anyone." Regina was in complete disbelief, no way in hell could Snow keep a secret- I mean, that's literally why they are where they are.
Emma had no time to respond. Instead, they heard the front door opening and multiple sets of footsteps.
"Ma! Mum!" Henry was the first into the kitchen, and most certainly the first hugging them.
"We missed you, Henry." Regina cooed softly as she planted a kiss on her son's cheek.
"Hasn't been that long," Henry laughed as he pulled from the hug.
"It has in mum years," Emma joked as she playfully roughed Henry's hair. "In fact, its been at least 5 years."
Henry groaned, his mothers could be overbearing sometimes- though he knew it was all from a place of love. "'Mum years'" He air quoted. "More like love bubble."
Regina tensed, and she saw Emma do the exact same. Had Snow failed to keep the secret. Regina could feel herself panicking and did everything she could to keep it from showing. Was Henry angry that they hadn't told him, was he angry that they were together, period.
Henry held up his hands like a white flag. "Just busting your chops," He winced, in a way much like his blonde mother. "Clearly my 'observational'" He air quoted, "humour, isn't too your liking."
Regina saw Emma relax before she let go of a breath she didn't know she was holding.
"Emma, Regina," Charming greeted kindly as he entered the kitchen. Granny's Dinner bags filling his arms.
"Hey, Dad," Emma returned sweetly as she helped him set the bags down. "How about we eat outside on the deck. Beautiful day for it." Emma said, knowing that everyone would be better off with fresh air and their own space.
"Great idea, Emma." Regina smiled and was quick to get the food and everyone outside.
Once everyone was outside eating had begun quickly, which subsequently meant that no one was talking. Mouths full, the easiest way to defuse a situation. Regina thought.
"So, how'd you get Ma out of bed so early?" Henry asked Regina mid-mouthful.
"Pardon?" Regina asked, annoyed Henry was speaking with his mouthful but also buying herself time.
"So, how'd you get Ma out of bed so early?" Henry asked again after swallowing.
"What makes you think she got me out of bed so early?" Emma chimed in after seeing Regina struggling- though it was only a small tensed muscle in Regina's jaw, Emma knew exactly what it meant.
"Well," Henry began. "Its barely past nine, and New York is like," He shrugged dramatically. "Six hours away."
Emma nodded slowly, clearly, Snow hadn't even mentioned that they were back.
"That's because we got back yesterday." Regina admitted, no point lying if they were just going to come clean later.
Charming and Henry made the same face and noise of confusion.
"What about that message you sent us?" Henry questioned softly. "Then why is Emma awake and here so early for breakfast," Henry's tone had become more accusatory. "She doesn't even eat breakfast." Which was true for the most part. If Emma had it her way she would be asleep until lunch time.
Regina looked over to Emma, who was seated opposite her. "Because she stayed here last night." Regina explained swiftly.
Henry asked "She did?" at the exact same time Charming did.
"I did," Emma confirmed.
"Well if you were that tired after the drive home I would have just stayed with Nan and Pa, you didn't have to lie." Henry said, a little hurt his mothers had lied. It was then Regina cursed herself for raising such an honest young man.
Regina looked over to Emma once more, asking what to do, what to say. They took more than a moment to just look at each other, to have a silent conversation with their eyes, and finally, Emma just nodded. Regina knew it was time.
"Henry," Regina reached for her son's hand. "We came back yesterday, and yes we wanted some time to ourselves before seeing everyone." Deep down Regina knew Henry would have no problem with her relationship with Emma, but still, she found it hard to find the words- perhaps it was the knowing thought that next to her sat Snow White and Prince Charming. "And the reason we lied isn't because we-" She paused, not knowing how to finish.
Thankfully, Emma cut in. "Look, kid, it isn't that we wanted more time away from you or anyone for that matter. Its because we wanted more time together." Emma emphasised her last word hoping Henry would understand.
Regina smiled across to Emma. Thanking the lords Emma was so easily blunt, Regina just nodded in agreement.
"Wait," Henry almost did a double take. His hands slowly moved to cover his mouth. "You-" He choked a little and slapped his hand on the table. "Right, y'all missed April Fools by a few months." He had spent so long only dreaming his mothers would get over themselves and get together- this couldn't actually be happening.
"What's the joke?" Charming questioned from his position at the other end of the table.
Henry rolled his eyes at his mothers and turned towards his Grandfather. "I always make jokes about how they should be together, and finally they are striking back."
"You do? They are?" Charming asked, more than confused- Sure he knew Regina and Emma were close friends, but he saw no reason as to why Henry would think they should be together.
"Yes," Henry confirmed before looking back at Regina, and then to Emma. "You can't joke about your child's hopes and dreams, only to rip them away from him, that's not fair."
Emma laughed a little, her son was so damn smart and yet, so damn dumb. "Kid, we aren't joking."
"W-what?" Henry actually did choke that time. "You're serious?" Henry couldn't believe it- he wouldn't believe Emma as she was likely the mastermind behind such a terrible prank. So, he looked to his other mother. "Mum?"
Regina smiled softly, her son looked too happy and hopeful, and it was in that moment Regina knew that no matter Snow's reaction she and Emma were making the right decision in telling people. "Yes, Henry, seriously. We are together," Regina shifted her gaze across to Emma momentarily. "And we couldn't be happier." Regina watched as Henry's face exploded with joy. His smile was so wide and pure, it was a memory to cherish. "It's about damn time!" He exclaimed.
"You're telling me," Emma grinned towards her son.
"I think I've missed something." Charming said softly, though he was only heard by his wife.
Snow leant over to him, her head softly resting on his shoulder as she watched Henry bounce with joy- getting out of his seat to hug his mothers. "They are together, romantically, intimately."
"Oh," Charming looked down to his wife and smiled. "Regina?" His voice higher now to catch her attention. "Yes?" Regina asked as she- Emma and Henry- turned to face him.
"You're dating my daughter?" He asked, his always so sweet voice now had a stern undertone.
"I am," Regina confirmed with the biggest smile covering her lips. It was something she would never get over. She, Regina Mills- Evil Queen- was dating Emma Swan, love of her life.
"And you love her?" He asked.
"Charming," Snow patted his arm. "It's a little early for that."
"Four days is five mum years, so I'd believe it," Henry joked.
Regina smiled at her son and his joke before turning her focus back to Charming. "I do," She confirmed easily. Loving Emma may actually be one of the easiest and happiest things she has ever done.
"You do?" Henry and Snow asked together, both a little shocked.
"And I love her." Emma confirmed.
"Well," Charming smiled kindly. "Then all I ask is you treat my daughter with the utmost love and respect." And for Charming that would be enough, all he wanted was his darling daughter to be happy.
"I will," Regina smiled as she reached across the table to take Emma's hand. "Emma has made me who I am today, I will always cherish her."
Emma squeezed Regina's hand and smiled. "And I love you, with all my heart."
Charming was pleased, quickly convinced of their happiness and that was enough for him. "Well," He smiled towards his daughter and Regina. "Love is love, and I am just glad you two have found it."
"Thanks, Dad," Emma smiled. "That means a lot."
And for the moment, that seemed to be that. The rest of the breakfast was spent on different topics, that of school, and summer plans, the New York trip. The Swan-Mills family hadn't come back to Regina and Emma's new relationship once, and that was probably for the best.
Snow and Charming had gone home, full stomachs and large smiles. Henry had of course been delighted but didn't press his mothers knowing he'd get all his answer in due time. After breakfast he had disappeared, leaving the house to see a friend. And then there was Regina and Emma, happy to just spend a quiet day at home together, relaxing.
….
It had been months since Emma and Regina had gotten home, mid-September, and they were happier than they ever remember being.
Emma had arranged a beautiful home cooked meal on one faithful Friday night. Henry was at his Grandparent's for the night, and Emma was cooking in the kitchen as she waited for Regina return from work.
"Emma, darling?" Regina called into the house from the foyer. Kicking off her shoes came first, then hanging up her bag, and before Regina could begin her search for Emma she appeared in the dining room, making her way across to Regina.
"Hey," Emma smiled.
"Hey," Regina returned, taking the last step into Emma's personal space and closing the gap to kiss her girlfriend. "You've been cooking?" Regina couldn't place it, but it smelt delicious.
Emma nodded. "Halloumi and chicken salad," Emma informed.
Regina hummed in enjoyment. "Smells delightful,"
"You smell delightful," Emma winked before turning back to the kitchen.
Regina followed. "Candles?" She questioned upon seeing the dining table. "Wine?"
"Romance," Emma explained. "Stay here," Emma instructed before slipping into the kitchen.
And who was Regina to argue. She sat in her chair and waited patiently for Emma's return. It wasn't long before Emma was coming back into the dining room, food and wine aplenty.
"Enchanted path, for Queeny," Emma grinned as she placed a glass in front of Regina.
Regina watched Emma put down the plates of food before taking her own seat next to Regina at the head of the table. "Any reason for this evening?" Regina questioned,
"Because I had a very similar one planned for tomorrow," Regina gazed at Emma curiously.
"Maybe you're bad at keeping secret," Emma smirked, "Maybe I just love you," She shrugged.
"No proper answer then?" Regina glared.
Emma shook her head. "Nuh,"
The two women fell into an easy silence, eating their dinner together was enough for now.
"I love it when you cook for me," Regina smiled after taking a sip of wine to wash down the last of her food.
Emma waggled her eyebrows. "Sexy right?" She grinned.
"Very," Regina winked.
"I could always cook more," Emma suggested with a shrug and soft smile.
"You could." Regina confirmed softly, as she stood up. "Excuse me for a moment." And with that Regina swiftly slipped out of the dining room and upstairs.
Emma was left to finish off her food for a few minutes before Regina made her return.
"Em," Regina called softly from the entryway of the dining room. Leaning her right shoulder against the doorframe.
Emma turned her focus to Regina, watching her in the soft candlelight. "Regina," She returned sweetly.
"I love you," Regina said from her position in the entryway. "I never thought I could love someone the way I love you," It was when Regina began to move closer that Emma could see the tears in Regina's eyes. "Even with Daniel, it was such a different kind of love- But with you, with you, I feel every kind of love I had ever experienced, then some."
"Regina," Emma whispered, "Where is this going?" She breathed out softly.
Then Regina was right in front of Emma. Regina smiled at Emma lovingly before taking a spot on the floor in front of Emma. "Well," Regina pulled a small box from her coat. "I was going to say, I don't want to spend another minute without you by my side." Then Regina was opening the small box.
Emma watched like a hawk and then she saw it, a small silver key. Emma took a deep breath.
"Move in with me, Emma," Regina pulled the ring from the box. "I hate the nights you aren't here, and I can't get enough of the ones when you are here."
Emma grinned, letting out a small chuckle. "Well, I guess this means I'm officially moving in." Emma lent down, taking Regina's cheeks in her hands. "I love you," Emma smiled before kissing her lover.
Regina slowly broke the kiss. "Then I think we should set the wedding date now," Regina smiled softly, bringing them back to a moment they both remembered all too well.
"Well," Emma chuckled, through a watery smile. Then she too was kneeling down to match Regina's position. "Regina," She pulled a small box from her jean pocket.
"Em," Regina whispered breathlessly, knowing exactly what was about to happen.
"Regina Mills, will you marry me?" Emma questioned, her tone filled with soft gentle love.
Regina nodded a few times wordlessly before crashing her lips against Emma's in a heated kiss. Still kissing, Emma took Regina's left hand a placed the ring onto her finger, eagerly securing the proposal.
"A thousand times yes," Regina said, finally breaking the kiss.
Emma nodded, letting a few small tears fall free. "For a second there I thought we were on very different pages." Emma let out a sigh of relief.
Regina shook her head. "I just didn't want to rush things and scare you off," Regina admitted.
"You could never scare me off," Emma said honestly.
Regina was overjoyed; never did she think she would find her own happy ending. And yet, here it was, kneeling in front of her of their dining room floor.
…
"Planning a wedding and moving in together?" Snow just about squealed, which wasn't at all the reaction Emma and Regina were expecting.
"Yes," Emma nodded. "And, we were wondering if we could borrow your brain and talent for organising the wedding."
Snow gasped a little, completely joyed. "Of course!" She smiled before going quiet, taking a moment to think. "I'm a little curious though," Snow turned her focus to Regina,
"You're far more organised than I am, so why me?"
Regina smiled kindly- that she was. "Well, weddings aren't my forte, so I'll be focusing on the house- getting all of Emma's belongings in and sorting through what I don't need anymore to make space."
"And lucky ol' me will be doing both wedding prep and packing," Emma groaned playfully through her smile "And unpacking."
"Well, I'd be honoured to help," Snow said before pulling the two into a tight hug.
…
The next four weeks were a roller-coaster of stress and complete joy for the entire Swan-Mills family.
Snow had been working on organising a wedding, to somehow suit both Emma and Regina's styles, Regina had been sorting through everything in the Mills Manor and Emma had been jumping back and forth between tasks.
But come moving weekend and everyone- including Snow- was focused combing two homes. On Saturday everyone was getting Regina's unwanted furniture and odd bits and bobs out of the Mills Manor, and Sunday was getting all of Emma's belongings into the Mills Manor.
"Who would have thought a nomad like me would have this much crap," Emma laughed as she watched Charming and Henry struggle to get a couch through the front door.
"Em," Regina said softly, placing a hand on her partner's shoulder. "You haven't been a nomad in, like, seven years." She sassed before moving off towards the moving truck.
"And, you horde!" She called back behind her.
"Oi!" Emma gasped in faux hurt as she jogged after Regina. "I do not horde!" She argued once grabbing Regina from behind in a tackle hug.
"Fine," She playfully rolled her eyes. "You're sentimental."
Emma glared. "I was an orphan!" She protested with cheek. "I'm aloud."
Regina nodded. "Yes, of course," She babied. "My pore little orphan," She mocked light-heartedly.
Emma poked her tongue out. "Don't be cruel," Emma almost sounded serious. "to a heart that's true!" Emma sang before jumping into the truck.
"Come on over and love me, you know I want you to stay," Regina sang as Emma climbed out of the truck, box in hand, and started off towards the house.
Emma turned around and began to walk backwards. "Let's walk down to the preacher, Let's say, hey I do, And then I know you'll want me, And you'll know I want you too." Emma called to Regina, rather than singing.
"Four weeks, Baby," Regina sighed contently, Emma already inside the house with no chance of hearing her. "Four weeks and I'm yours forever," Regina whispered as she clutched at her happy singing heart.
…
And that it was, three weeks and six days later and Regina was doing the final touches on her make-up before walking down the aisle.
Early November in Maine is not the time of year for outdoor weddings, luckily Snow had convinced Emma and Regina to have a beautiful indoor ceremony. Snow had even managed to get them a booking at the Storybrooke Heritage Farm, a beautiful historic farmhouse on 5 acres of land- meaning serene views of the beautiful garden from every window. Maybe it wasn't the rustic outdoor wedding Emma and Regina wanted but it was damn near close, after Snow had finished with the decorating.
"You look beautiful, Mum." Henry spoke softly as he gently entered the room Regina was readying herself in.
Regina turned from the mirror to face her son. "Thank you, Henry." She cooed before straightening Henry's tie. "And you look very handsome."
Henry smiled, "Everything is ready when you are." Henry said kindly, noticing the nervousness in his mother's voice.
"Is Emma ready?" Regina asked tentatively. Regina could recognize her own nerves, but nothing she did quelled the thought that there was a chance Emma would, or had, run. It wasn't that Emma had ever given an inclination to such as act, but Regina doubted herself worth, and in turn that made her doubt Emma's love for her.
Henry nodded and placed a soft hand on his mother's shoulder. "She is ready and waiting for you to walk down the aisle."
Regina let out a soft sigh of relief. "I suppose I shouldn't keep her waiting then," And as quickly as that Regina was back to her normal self.
Henry swiftly led his mother from the dressing room, down a long hallway, a flight of stairs and then to a set of large old double doors. "Ready?" Henry smiled towards his mother as he linked arms with her.
Regina nodded. "Like I've been waiting my entire life."
Henry knocked three times on the door, to signal Regina's arrival. Only a few seconds passed before the doors began to open. Regina's eyes immediately fell to Emma's back, and moments later- once the music had begun to play- Regina's eyes were locked with Emma's.
Regina could feel the butterflies in her stomach flying, swirling and twirling all over the place. Even just the sight of Emma was enough to send Regina spinning, but the sight of Emma in her wedding suit? Regina was speechless, this was an outfit she would remember forever.
A soft white linen shirt with a Mandarin collar, topped with a buttoned vest that matched her cream tan chinos. At the bottom of Emma's long legs were a pair of light grey suede desert boots, and in Regina's opinion the shoes completed the outfit, but Emma's natural yet smoky eyes made it.
And before Regina knew it, Henry was kissing her cheek and placing her hands in Emma's.
Emma's soft voice drew Regina from her thoughts, "You look beautiful," Emma complimented before leaving a chased kiss on Regina's lips.
Regina held in a laugh, Emma was too modest… Because if she was beautiful, what was Emma, the Goddess of true fucking beauty? Which, Regina then supposed wasn't all too far from the truth.
"And you, you're the beauty Queen." Regina said softly as she captured Emma's eyes one last time before turning to the celebrant.
"In hopes of not sounding too cheesy," The celebrant started, "You two share a love only seen in fairy tales." There was a light laugh from the crowd and a teary eye roll from Regina. "And what I mean by that is, that you two are the definition of soulmates." She continued, "I have seen love many times throughout my years as a celebrant, and yet I have never seen anything quite like the two of you. Regina, Emma, despite having faced many difficult situations- you always come out stronger than you ever were. You have always worked together, pushed past personal boundaries to come together and work together. Whether you've wanted to or not," There was knowing laugh from the crowd, and a large grin from Emma. "But, that's part of what makes your love magical. The ability to communicate and work as a team, even in the toughest of times."
Emma laughed a little, "the dream team," She said lovingly as she squeezed Regina's hands a little tighter.
The celebrant nodded. "Yes, I think everyone here today can agree, you two are the dream team." A small murmur of agreement covered the crowd. "Love is, love is countless possibilities- it's a moving target. People say it's sad, it's painful, it's angry, it's confusing and messy, but being able to work through these things together is where you find true happiness. Love isn't easy, that much I know. But once you find someone who makes it feel that way, you've found someone truly worth your time, worth your effort and attention. Which is exactly what you two have found. A partner to work with, to quell your woes, soothe your pain, but most of all make your happy moments so much more incredible. You two have shown each other over the years just how much you mean to one another, you two have put so much effort into becoming the couple you are today, you've paid attention to each other, given each other time, thought, patience and most of all, love."
Regina nodded towards the celebrant. "That was beautiful," She said softly as she turned her gaze to Emma.
The celebrant smiled, teary-eyed herself. "And now it is time for the vows. Regina and Emma have prepared their own." She turned to Emma, who was pulling out a small note card from her pocket. "Emma, you may begin."
"Regina," Emma began, the large smile covering her face. "When I think about us, I think of misconnections, being in the wrong place at the right time, or the right place at the wrong time. We could have met in so many different ways, our story could have been so different- in time and space. And I am lucky as hell that we got the story we did. For so much of my life I was alone, always searching, but never sure what for. My entire life has been this kind of journey, the long road home, and when I met you everything suddenly made sense. I was searching for you, meeting you was my homecoming." Emma took a moment to collect herself, and to wipe away a few stray tears. "You were right, we were written in the stars, and destiny has unfolded in the most curious way, but I wouldn't change a thing. The love I have for you, Regina, it is epic and life-changing, and I am so glad I get to spend the rest of my life with you."
"Emma, you may now place the ring onto Regina's finger."
Emma was more than eager to follow direction, taking the ring box from Henry as soon as he offered it to her. Emma pulled the ring from its velvet home before lifting Regina's left hand. The two women took deep breaths as Emma slid the ring down Regina's finger, to a place it would stay forever. "I love you," Emma whispered before the two of them turned back to the celebrant.
"Regina, you may now say your vows." The celebrant said, offering Regina the stage.
"With you Emma, I've taken the long road home. It's taken me over a lifetime to find you, but now that I have you, I couldn't imagine it any other way. As queen I never faulted, I was never taken aback or lost for words, but when you came along everything changed. You smashed down the walls I had spent so long building in such a short amount of time, and I was forced to let you in. Even when we didn't see eye to eye, you treated me with so much care and respect, something that was very foreign to me. You gave me compassion and kindness, even when we fought. You gave me the time and space I needed to learn to love myself and let myself be loved. I have found strength in the warmth of your smile and found shelter in the depths of your eyes. I was so lost, and over the years you pulled me in- closer and closer until finally, I was home. With you Emma, I am home."
"That was beautiful. Regina, you may now place the ring onto Emma's finger."
Regina could feel a few tears fall, but she couldn't help it, she felt so completely overwhelmed with love for the woman in front of her. Regina took the ring box from Henry, quickly taking out Emma's wedding band. "Emma," Regina whispered as she slipped the ring onto Emma's finger.
Celebrant smiled through her own watery eyes. "I now pronounce you wife and wife, you may now kiss."
And so, they did. Neither of them held back, completely losing themselves in the moment. Wrapping their arms around each other, pulling themselves so close there was no air between them. Emma's hands held Regina's waist tightly, as Regina's hands got lost in Emma's hair. Faintly in the background, they could hear the cheering and clapping from the crowd, but neither paid to much attention. This was their moment; their kiss could be as long and as passionate as they damn well pleased. This was it, this was the love they had both been looking for, the life they had both fought tooth and nail to create. Little did they know, but this was the greatest love story ever told.
And this moment was the beginning of their Happily Ever After.