A/N: Hi, thanks for the lovely reviews and for following this story. I'm glad to see that you guys are having fun. It's exactly what I intended.
I saw a some reviews mention putting Regina in a particular situation... (I can't say exactly what without giving away too much) but I hope that's what you wanted. :)
I own nothing. Sorry for mistakes.
Enjoy!
Chapter 3
Regina survived the night which was a miracle in itself. Emma locked her bedroom door so fortunately for Regina, Snow couldn't sneak in and abduct and her. She slept peacefully most of the night, snuggled into Emma's side but her peace was cut short by a nightmare. She dreamt she was in a large room filled with giant cat brushes and shedding combs. She managed to dodge all of them as they grew legs and began chasing her. She ran out of the door into a white hallway that appeared to go on forever. She kept running, looking over her shoulder to make sure she wasn't being chased by the grooming supplies but a low giggle echoed down the endless hall. She came to a screeching halt when she saw the gigantic baby headed her way. She gasped and turned to run in the opposite direction but before she could get far, a hand grabbed her, lifting her off the ground. She squirmed and struggled in their grasp but couldn't break free. She was forced to just look into the face of her captor and her eyes widened with fear. Neal. The baby giggled again. He then opened his little mouth and guided her to it. She fought harder to get away but was over powered by the fifty foot baby. He popped her into his mouth like a gumball.
That's when she was startled awake. She sat up, chest heaving and panting. It was all a dream... She thought... maybe... She looked down at her black paws, the nightmare was not over.
Still a cat. She sighed.
"Hey..." A familiar voice said causing Regina to both perk up and feel suddenly embarrassed. She looked up into Emma's eyes. There was so much concern in them. "You were dreaming."
Was I?
"You were running on her side and making little sounds. Are you okay?"
The cat nodded. I am now. Now come here and cuddle with me.
She burrowed into Emma's chest and the blonde stroked her back. She and Emma were getting too comfortable with this. It should have been strange and awkward but it felt nice, almost natural. Emma knew how to pet her just right and she clearly loved doing it.
They just laid there like that until Regina sat up suddenly. Her front paws rested on Emma chest as the blonde stroked her coat softly. Regina closed her eyes and purred.
I can't believe that I'm doing this. I am such a...a... jerk! but there's just something about Emma and her presence that makes Regina want to do this. Makes her want to throw all of her self respect out of the window and snuggle with her but she can't do that. Especially since in the near future, she'll return to humanhood... but Emma is so... comforting and she instantly feels safe in her presence.
A loud shrill ringing, caused Regina to flinch. The sound hurting her hyper sensitive ears. Emma reach over and shut the alarm off then scratched the top of the cat's head for a while longer. She then lifted her under her front legs and placed her down beside her.
Rude. Excuse you. Regina thought bitterly.
Regina watched Emma with a tilt of her head as she stretched, trying with everything she had not to focus on the way Emma's muscles flexed and bulged as she did so. The woman was build like a Greek goddess and this situation has allowed her to see more of Emma than she would have otherwise.
And Emma wasn't very modest and very comfortable with her body. Honestly, Regina's first night in the house, the blonde pulled her shirt over her head and gave Regina an eyeful. Although the view was very nice and apparently the attention wasn't unwelcome because Emma simply smirked and put on a new shirt. Regina on the other hand felt like a complete pervert and covered her small face with her paws. Emma chuckled and told her it was okay to look because she was dressed.
This time however was no different. Emma pulled her tank top over her head but to Regina's pleasure and embarrassment she wasn't wearing anything underneath. The cat quickly turned around and hid her face in her paws for good measure.
She heard Emma chuckle from behind her. "It's funny that you react that way since you're the one who's actually naked here."
Regina's ears perked up at that then laid back. I'm not naked, you idiot. I'm covered in a beautiful, high-end, fur coat... wait, what?
"Anyway..." Emma continued as if she hadn't just said something weird. "I had to shower at like three a.m. first to make sure my mom was asleep and two to make sure she couldn't snatch you this morning." Both she and the cat sighed collectively. "This is getting out of hand..."
You think?
"I mean, she really likes you. Which I can't exactly blame her for because you're so damn cute."
Regina sighed and Emma chuckled. "Well you are..."
Regina rolled her eyes. Flattery gets you nowhere, Miss Swan. Anyway, I find my human self much more attractive.
"You can turn around now." Emma announced. Regina looked over just in time to see Emma clipping her sheriff's badge onto her hip. "Want me to brush you or something?" Regina just gave her a look and Emma laughed. She just raised her hands in surrender. "Okay. I just thought because we were going out..."
No, I would very much rather make it through this day in one piece... wait... She tilted her head. We?
Emma seemed to read the cat's expression, which she's been getting good at. "Well I can't leave you here alone."
Regina nodded. Well that is true.
"I mean, I could always play hooky and we can just stay home..."
The cat just narrowed her eyes at her.
"Well, it was worth a shot." Emma gathered the cat into her arms. "Let's go eat."
Regina shook her head as Emma carried her out of the room.
Emma sat at the breakfast table, shoveling eggs and bacon into her mouth, watching the cat out of the corner of her eye who was lapping at a bowl of cream, seemingly content. Emma smiled a little to herself. Regina Mills, the regal queen, the mayor was now 'Mayor Furball'. She chuckled to herself.
"She fits right in with us." Snow said following her daughter's line of sight.
"Yeah it's like she's one of us. Part of the family, you know?" Emma agreed.
"Too bad we can't keep her." David noted and Emma and Snow looked at him with wide eyes. He shrugged. "She doesn't belong to us, remember?"
"Right..." Snow said with a frown. "But if no one claims her, we can keep her."
David nodded. "Sure, why not? It'll be nice for Neal to have a playmate."
Regina looked up from her bowl and Emma gave her a reassuring look that said, her baby brother would not be playing with her ever. The cat seemed to accept that and returned to her milk.
"We're going to start on those fliers." David said. "I'll take a picture of her then I'll have the guys print up some fliers and put them up around town." He said thoughtfully. "We'll give it a week. If no one claims her then we keep her."
Emma laughed in her head at that. "Okay." She said sipping from her mug.
"We should call her something..." Henry finally spoke up for the first time that morning. His brain finally awake. "We can't keep calling her 'the cat'."
"That's true... " Snow said thoughtfully. "But we don't want to confuse her in case the real owners come up."
Emma was amused by the entire conversation and apparently so was Regina because she shook her head lightly.
"We have to call her something." Henry insisted.
"Okay, so we'll all think of a name for this beautiful girl." Snow said with a kind smile at the cat. The cat narrowed her eyes at the woman. "We'll put them in a hat. Neal will reach his hand in and whatever name he pulls out we'll call her for now."
Everyone nodded. "Okay. Cool." Emma said wiping her mouth with a napkin. She threw it onto her plate and stood up. "But... I have to go to work."
David looked at his watch and nodded. "Me too. Don't want to be late."
"What are we doing with her?" Henry asked nodding towards the cat.
"Oh, she's going with me." Emma said with a shrug.
"To work?" Henry asked amused.
Emma nodded. "She'll be an honorary sheriff for the day."
"A mascot." Snow added.
"Sure." Emma said with a shrug.
Emma headed for the stairs to grab her jacket. Her mom and Neal couldn't do much to Regina in those few moments but just to be safe, she turned around, catching Henry's eyes. "Watch her." She mouthed and pointed at the cat. He nodded with a smile. She then turned to the cat that looked like she was going to follow her. "I'll be right back." She mouthed to her too. The cat nodded.
"The cat is going to be at the office with you guys." Snow said to David. The man nodded. She smiled wide. "I have the perfect outfit for that."
"Snow..." David groaned. The woman had already gotten up and left the table. He sighed and went back to his food.
Snow all but ran into their room. She returned a moment later with a small costume in her hand. The cat didn't even notice her sneaking up before it was took late and the woman had already grabbed her.
Snow hummed softly as she carried the cat over to the couch and sat her on it before sitting beside her. The cat tried to make a break for it but Snow caught her.
"Just relax, honey." She said removing the costume from the protective wrapper.
Why must you insist on treating me like a doll, Snow? I am a living breathing thing. Undeterred however, Snow laid out the costume and Regina sighed in annoyance.
The only thing keeping me from tearing you apart is Emma and Henry.
Snow pulled the cat's leg up and put it through one side then slid on the other. She slid it the rest of the way down. She moved Regina's body this way and that as she put it on. Regina was fed up by the time she was finished. She had counted to ten about five times in total and she still wanted to rip the woman's face off.
Satisfied with her work Snow smiled. "There..."
Regina looked away from her.
"Oh wait." Snow said quickly and pulled something from behind her back. Regina eyed the pink item warily. Snow leaned over and pulled a band under her chin and settled something on top of her head.
No. Not a hat.
"Now you're ready." The woman said with an even bigger, creepier smile.
Regina just wished she could conjure a fireball.
Emma was gone no longer than five minutes. Having had decided to put a little make up on while she was up there in her room. She headed back down and groaned at the sight that greeted her. Snow was sitting on the couch with the cat in her lap and a pleased smile on her face. Said cat was wearing a pink and rhinestoned cowboy outfit, along with a very pissed off expression.
"Seriously mom..." Emma sighed, running a hand over her face. "I leave you alone for five minutes..."
Snow smiled unbelievably wider. The cat looked like she wanted to die. "I saw this outfit in the petshop and I thought it was so cute because of you and your dad's professions and when you said she would be spending time with the two of you today, I decided to put it on her." Emma opened her mouth but her mom cut her off. "Doesn't she look cute!" She squealed.
"Yup." Emma said, although her face was slightly horrified.
"I thought the Sheriff uniform was so adorable."
Ah, a sheriff. That's what it is. Emma thought. She should have known with the star on the shoulder of the outfit. Like the other costume, this one came out into a tutu at the bottom. Very girly, with a matching pink sheriff's hat that said 'sheriff's department' in tiny white letters. Now the costume was cute but Regina did not look pleased. In fact she looked like she was about to rip Snow's face off at any moment.
Emma walked over and took the cat. She felt the cat relax in her arms. "We're gonna go." She said with a smile. "There's a town to protect."
You can protect the town but not the cat?! Regina thought.
"Of course." Snow said standing. "Bye little girl." She sing-songed to the cat as she scratched her head. "Have a great day."
I definitely will as long as you aren't in it.
"Thanks mom." Emma said. "See ya."
"Love you." Snow said kissing her cheek.
"Love you too, Mom." She said with a smile. "Have a great day, kid!" She said towards Henry who was sitting at the dinning room table, playing with his phone.
"Later mom." He said without looking up. She just shook her head.
Henry sometimes walked to school with Snow when he stayed over at her place. The four of them were currently waiting on whoever was babysitting Neal for the day.
Emma made a dash for the door. "See ya at work, Dad." She called towards the kitchen where her father was with Neal. She waved at her brother, who waved back. She didn't even wait for a response from her dad as she slipped out of the apartment. On the way down the stairs, Emma clutched Regina tightly to her chest. "I can't believe that happened again. I'm so sorry. How'd she do that so fast?"
It wasn't fast at all... it was a very slow, agonizing, torture.
Out on the street, Emma exhaled. At least they got a little break for the day. Opening the bug, she sat Regina in the passenger seat, then went about strapping her in. Satisfied that it wasn't squishing the cat, she jogged around to the other side and slid in. She grinned over at the cat as she started the car. "Ready to see what your sheriff does all day?"
Regina rolled her eyes. I don't have to go to work with you in order to know that you do nothing but play games on your phone and eat deep fried, glazed snacks all day.
Emma chuckled as if she could sense the snarky comment as they pulled off.
Emma strolled into the station with the cat tucked under her arm, completely oblivious to the cat's annoyed expression at being carried around everywhere like a handbag. Sure, she was small and cute and cuddly but she could still walk on her own.
But to be quite honest, she didn't even really want to... She liked for Emma to carry her and hold her close. Cuddle her. She liked the way Emma's body felt and smelled.
If I was in my human form I would...
Oh my god... She trailed off. Stop it. Don't be so.. disgusting. Emma Swan is your friend, you imbecile. Even if you are attracted to her. You will not act like it. Besides you're a cat. I'm pretty sure there are laws against that.
"Morning." Emma said to her deputies who were standing by the coffee machines, clearly chatting about their weekends.
"Morning." They both said with huge smiles.
Emma nodded her head. She noticed them staring at the cat under her arm so she quickly disappeared into her office before any questions came up. They entered Emma's office and Emma kicked the door closed. She walked over to the desk and sat the cat on top of it.
She then gently removed the costume. She left the collar and the hat but Regina wasn't exactly sure why, she was just pleased that the rest of it was gone. Emma folded up the outfit and stuffed it into the drawer of the desk.
She then shrugged off her jacket and fell into her office chair. She kicked back, put her feet up on the desk and leaned back. Regina's eyes opened in surprise.
Excuse you. You have the mayor in your office. Show some respect.
She hit Emma's leg a few times until the blonde looked over at her. "What?" The cat narrowed her eyes at her. "Please, spare me, Regina. Nothing hardly ever happens in this town."
Maybe we don't need a Sheriff then...
Emma pulled her phone out and started playing on it. Regina growled low at the dismissal then hit Emma again. When those beautiful eyes looked at her, she sent her a glare that would have sent a chill through anyone else's body but Emma knowing Regina was all bark and no bite or in Regina's case, all hiss and no bite at this point, it didn't even faze her.
After a staring contest that neither of them were willing to forfeit, Emma grinned wide.
Emma, why are you looking at me like that? What are you- ah!
She was pulled into the Sheriff's lap. Emma then quickly began scratching behind the cat's ears and snuggling her close to her chest. Regina struggled for a moment but Emma was much stronger than she was. With a heavy sigh, she relaxed against her. "Stop being so grumpy." Emma whispered as she hugged the cat.
Regina found herself really liking it and she despised herself for it. Emma was gentle in ways she hadn't expected. Her hands stroking down her spine felt really good. She couldn't stop herself when she leaned her head forward and rubbed her cheek against Emma's. She was standing on Emma's chest now, rubbing against her but Emma didn't seem to mind. She was loving the attention. Her fingers found the place right near Regina's tail and started scratching.
Oh, you've found my spot again.
To her embarrassment, she let out a soft purr. That's it. Emma. Right there.
Emma kept up her scratching and her petting, until Regina was a purring, snuggling mess. Oh this feels so good.
There was a knock at the door, interrupting their moment. Regina growled when Emma's hand stopped.
"Yeah?" Emma asked.
"Hey sheriff." Philip said as he poked his head in.
"What's up?" Emma asked as her hand returned to rubbing the cat. The young man stepped inside. Looking the cat for a moment, he smiled.
"Whos this?" He asked as he crossed the room. He leaned over the desk and patted the cat on the head.
Regina froze at the contact but decided that since she had no problems with him that it would be okay.
"A stray." Emma said with a shrug. "Or someone lost her but I'm keeping an eye on her until we find where she belongs."
"She's cute." The Prince said. "Aurora and I have been talking about getting our son a puppy..."
Emma smiled. "You should. Kids love pets. My brother really likes her."
Yeah a little too much. I'm sure I have bruises.
"That's really cute." Philip said with a smile and Emma nodded in an attempt to move him along. "So yeah... should Fredrick and I go on patrol?"
Emma shrugged. "I don't see why not. You'll just go crazy in here." The Prince smiled. "But David wants you to help him with fliers for the cat."
He nodded. "Okay. I'll wait for him."
Emma nodded and went back to petting the cat.
They chatted a little and Philip told Emma what Aurora and his son were up to. Emma listened with a small smile as the man excitedly told her about the baby who was a little younger than her own brother. Regina had zoned out at some point and had focused on shamelessly getting affection from Emma.
David came barreling into the office, a cat bed tucked underneath his arm. Emma's eyes widened and settled on the bed. He noticed this and gestured to it. "Your mother..." He sighed and Emma nodded. He placed it down, off in the corner of the office... "I figured you would take that off." He said gesturing to the hat of the costume. The cat narrowed her eyes at Emma.
"I was..." Emma said almost guiltily. "But isn't it so cute?" She reached up and tilted the hat to the side. She narrowly missed the cat swatting her hand away.
David chuckled. "It is." He straightened up and headed across the office. He patted Philip on the shoulder in greeting. "Don't worry, your mother has plenty more where that came from."
Emma and Regina's eyes widened at his words. They turned back to each other and shared a look. Emma winced when the cats nails dig into her skin. "Ouch." She said prying the paws off of her.
Sorry.
Emma sighed and David nodded. "I know." She smiled and shook her head. "I just hope she gives her a break."
The man chuckled and turned to his deputy. "Emma tell you what we're doing today?"
"Yep. Making fliers for the cat."
"Right." David said pulling his phone out of his back pocket. Getting the hint, Emma sat up and placed the cat on the table. He angled his phone to take the picture and Regina decided that it would be the perfect time to be difficult. To get him back for the hell his son and wife had put her through the last couple of days.
As soon as she heard the click indicating that he started to take the picture, she turned her furry cheek. "No, no, no." David pleaded then sighed when he looked back at picture which was just a blurry image of the cat's side profile.
He turned the phone's screen to face his daughter and she snorted. "She doesn't want her picture taken, Dad."
He shook his head with a smile. "I know but that Sheriff hat is perfect." He laughed and raised the phone again.
I'm glad you find that funny, Prince Uncharming.
He snapped the picture again and sighed when the cat moved yet again, this time looking down so that he only got the pink Sheriff hat. "She's stubborn." He noted to his daughter. Emma nodded.
I'll show you stubborn.
So she did. The next couple of pictures were of the cat's side profile, top of her head and were just a blur of motion. David had about twelve pictures in his camera roll and none of which were usable. He pinched the bridge of his nose. Emma and Philip were cracking up at that point. David shook his head and leaned down so that he could address the cat.
"Look," he explained calmly. "I'm doing this for your own good."
No you're not.
"So we can track down your family."
They might be closer than you think. She thought, looking over at Emma. No. I certainly do not see Emma as family. If so, it's only because of Henry. Henry's family and that makes Emma, something close to that and that's it. Nothing more.
"So please be good?" He added, snapping Regina out of her thoughts. She sighed heavily.
Oh, stop begging, Charming. It's unbecoming.
"Hey." Emma said drawing her attention. Her fingers starting stroking the cat's sleek fur. "Just do it so he can get out and we can get back to our cuddle session."
Regina's ears perked up at that and her tail started moving at an embarrassing speed. Really? Then her ears laid down and she narrowed her eyes at the blonde Sheriff. Who says I want to cuddle with you? I, for one, am not the cuddling type. I am strong and independent. I don't need to snuggle with you. I-
Oh, who am I kidding?
She looked up at Emma with those big eyes and she could see the blonde's heart melting. "That's it." Emma said, "Dad, hand me the phone." She made a grabby motion with her hand.
David frowned but handed it over. She held it up to the cat's face. The cat tilted her head adorably. "Just like that." She snapped the picture and the cat remained still. She smiled at the perfect picture with the most adorable face on. The hat was overkill. She scratched the cat's back. "So cute." She muttered and handed the phone back to her father. "Send me that."
"You got it." David said smiling at the picture. "I'll send it to Snow as well."
The cat rolled her eyes. You owe me, Swan.
Emma laughed. "What? you look really adorable."
The cat huffed and Emma smiled with a shake of her head.
David watched the pair for a while with a smile. "So... we're going to get started on those fliers." He said pocketing his phone. "We'll leave the two of you to it." He tickled under the cat's chin and she let him.
To what?
Emma nodded. The man started for the exit with Philip behind him. "Later guys." She called behind them. They mumbled their goodbyes as they slipped out.
"My dad is..." Emma trailed off. She tapped the bridge of the hat with her finger and chuckled when her hand was swatted away. "Anyway," she leaned back and kicked her feet up again. "Come here." She said opening her arms to the cat who just shook her head and rolled her eyes.
You adorable idiot... ugh...
Emma tapped under her furry chin and grinned. The cat glared, clearly unhappy with the teasing. The blonde held her hands up in surrender. "Sorry."
"Please come sit with me?" She asked turning on her best puppy dog face. The cat tilted her head questionly.
I'm the animal here and yet, you're the one giving me the puppy eyes. Only you, Emma Swan. Only you.
Despite being a cat, Regina found the puppy dog face to be extremely adorable and caved. She jumped down from the desk and onto Emma's stomach.
"Thank you." Emma said, she reached up and pulled the strap loose and removed the hat. Now Regina was only left in the collar that she had on since the day before.
The cat simply looked at the blonde. She yawned and stretched. Man, being a cat is exhausting. She was tired ninety percent of the time and wanted to do nothing but sleep.
She pushed and pulled on the material of Emma's shirt a few times before laying down. Emma's hand went back to her head and started petting behind her ear. She leaned into the touch. Emma didn't comment, instead continued on. The cat yawned again.
"Wow that was a big one." Emma chuckled. "Is someone sleepy?"
You do realize that I am not a cat, correct? Please do not turn into your mother.
Emma stretched. "A nap does sound good right about now..."
Regina sat up and gave her look.
"What? There's nothing going on in town. Besides, my phone is in my pocket. My walkie is on my desk and so is the phone." She pointed to the objects. "We're fine."
Regina rolled her eyes and laid down on her front paws.
You're lucky that you're one of the few people I actually like in this town or you'd be out of a job.
She curled up again but this time the softness of Emma's body, warmth and comforting scent made it difficult to fight off the tiredness and within a moment she had fallen into a deep sleep.
Emma smiled to herself before drifting off as well.
That's how they spent most of their day. Napping. Emma waking up and snacking or playing games on her phone. The cat slept through most of the morning though.
Just as Emma had suspected, nothing happened, especially with the guys on patrol. Everything was safe. A perfect 'napping on the job' day, in Emma's opinion.
When Emma woke up from her second nap, she found two takeout bags from Granny's on her desk. She smiled when she realized that her father had left them. She shook Regina awake. The cat looked at her, blinking sleepily and it was the cutest thing she had ever seen. "My dad brought food." She announced and the cat just continued to look at her with a bored expression.
Emma snorted and opened the bags to find a burger and fries and a plain chicken salad, clearly for the cat. He was so thoughtful like that.
Emma sat their food in front of each them and they both ate quietly. Regina appearing not to care for the chicken alone with nothing on it and Emma watching the finicky cat in amusement.
"Honestly... if i didn't know any better I'd say all cats are secretly people. I mean..." Emma wiped her mouth with the napkin and placed it on the now empty wrapper that her burger was once in. The cat looked up at her. "You know because all cats act like people. They're smart, neat and incredibly sassy. It's like they aren't animals at all."
The cat just looked at her for a long time and Emma laughed. "but I don't exactly know a lot about pets, since I've never really had one." She muttered. "Unless you count some of my old boyfriends."
Yep, I heard you were engaged to a monkey... The winged type...
"...but..." Emma continued. She's always confided in Regina, she still felt the same relief in doing so but the difference is that the mayor could no longer provide any of her wisdom. "Yeah, if I had to think of an animal to compare you to I'd definitely say a cat."
Lion. Regina corrected.
"Or a lioness." Emma added thoughtfully. "Definitely a Lioness."
That's my girl. Regina said in agreement.
"Especially your fierceness whenever you're protecting Henry... or me." She added the last part more softly but with Regina's very sensitive ears, she heard it. Emma cleared her throat at the look of surprise on the cat's face. "... it's almost like a lioness protecting her family." Her eyes darted away from the cat but Regina continued to watch on in awe.
Emma knows that I care about her. That she's important to me. That I... wait... She knows that I care about her! No, no, no. What does she think of that? Is that why she's refusing to looking at me? How I managed to make a complete fool of myself just sitting here, I will never understand.. maybe Emma is rubbing off on me after all...
Emma must've saw the look of panic in Regina's eyes because before Regina could berate herself further she felt Emma's hand (well fingers rather) on her paw. She offered the cat a smile when she looked up at her, that took the small feline's breath away.
Get it together, Regina.
"If you're a Lioness then so am I. We protect each other and our clan."
Pride, Emma. It's called a 'pride' but yes.
"...our family..." Emma trailed off.
Our? Family? Emma?
The cat's eyes were wide with curiosity. Did she say 'our family'? There's an us? What have I missed? Was I really asleep for that long?
Emma sighed and hung her head. Looking back up she gave the cat a sad smile. "This really isn't the best time to discuss this since you can't exactly talk back."
Yes, well...
Emma sighed again and ran a hand over her face. She took a deep breath and exhaled. Something that Emma often does when something is weighing on her and she needs to push it back. Now Regina was very curious. What exactly was Emma trying not to say?
She tilted her head as if asking 'whats going on?'
Emma shook her head and waved it off. "Nothing."
Regina glared at Emma. You can't just say all those things and act as if it never happened, Emma. What's wrong with you? No scratch that. You have your parent's DNA, so the answer to that is many things...
"Regina, I think we should discuss this when you're... well, aren't furry."
Regina rolled her eyes. Oh my goodness, Emma!
"I know, I know. I'm acting weird." She shook her head again. "But anyway..."
Regina huffed and they both fell silent. Regina giving up for now but she will press Enna when she was a human again. That's for sure.
Okay, you get over now, Swan but don't get too comfortable.
Regina couldn't help the yawn that escaped her. Why am I always tired? Ugh.
Emma smirked. "Oh, am I boring you?"
No but you certainly are confusing me and I do not like to not know what's going on so you better start making sense. She simply gave the blonde human a look. Emma groaned and ran her fingers through her hair.
Why did Regina find that sound so sexy? Since when do I find Emma Swan sexy? What is happening, Regina? Rein it in.
They stared at each other for a long time before Emma blew out a breath. "I'm making this weird, right?"
Just complicated. She shook her head regardless.
Emma nodded and stroked the back of the cat's head. Regina's eyes slipped closed. "Thanks for always being so understanding, your majesty." She chuckled at the last part.
You're welcome, even though, I don't understand any of this... but she just nodded anyway.
Emma suddenly shot to her feet and Regina instantly missed her touch. She looked up at her, a look of surprise on her face. "Wanna go for a walk?"
Regina gave her a bored look and she laughed. "Come on. We can't sleep all day."
Speak for yourself. I'm a cat and you're supposedly the town's Sheriff. Sleeping on the job... we're going to have a serious discussion about this... I can't believe I'm paying you to-
She was cut off by Emma scooping her into her arms. She huffed. Emma just held her head to her chest and stroked her cheek with her thumb. "Come on. The air will do us both good and maybe we can be productive for the rest of the day."
There you go with that 'we' again.
Emma started to carry her out of the office and out into the front of the station, Regina took a look around. It was an utter mess. Books and papers everywhere.
This is why you never get your paperwork to me on time because you can never find it in this junkyard. In all honesty, she was surprised Emma's personal office was so neat. Maybe because she never does any work in it...
They walked out of the station and onto the street. As soon as they stepped into the midday spring sun, Regina wanted to just run back inside and nap some more but then again... she was in strong arms, pressed against a soft yet firm chest, so perhaps she could just nap there...
Oh my god, what is wrong with me?!
Either way, that dream was squashed when she was placed in a patch of grass on the sidewalk. She felt the soft, prickly blades under her paws and she instantly just wanted to just jump back into Emma's arms. She looked up at the blonde who was smiling down at her with her hands in the back pockets of her skinny jeans.
What are you doing? Don't put me on the filthy ground. Hold me!
Emma continued to smile at the cat. "See, this is nice." She demonstrated this by dramatically inhaling some of the fresh air.
No. Pick me up!
Emma fell silent and Regina continued to watch her. She could see her wheels turning. "Hey, Regina." The cat just looked at her, confused. Emma pointed behind her. Regina turned to see a large orange tabby coming up behind her.
She glared at him as he got closer. He seemed very curious about the new cat in his territory. He got closer and Regina bristled up. Her fur standing up on her back. Her ears laid back and her eyes narrowed.
Don't take another step.
Of course he couldn't hear her so he continued on. She felt her anger rising at him disobeying her. She lowered her body close to the ground.
I said, 'do not come any closer'.
She could no longer contain her anger as he inched even closer. She hissed at him, her fangs bared. The sound startling Emma slightly.
"Gina..." She tried gently but the cat inside of Regina didn't hear her. She was too focused on the nosey cat invading her space.
Okay, I see I'm going to have to remove you myself.
The cat leaned in to sniff Regina and Emma covered her mouth to muffle her laugh at the completely scandalized look on the black cat's face. "Buddy, I wouldn't do that if-" before she could finish the sentence, Regina raised her paw and hit the orange cat on the head a couple of times at rapid fire speed. That seemded to convey the message loud and clear because after a look of pure shock, the other cat ran off.
That's it, hit the dirt, fleabag. Regina thought, not even caring to see how far away he was. She sat back down and looked up at Emma. The blonde simply smirked and shook her head. Clearly amused.
"That's was kind of mean, you know?" Emma said. "He was only trying to say hello." Regina just looked at her, blinking, completely not amused. "Oh come on, the two of you would have had some adorable, Halloween colored kittens."
Regina's glare was scorching. Emma raised her hands in surrender as she laughed. "I'm kidding."
Keep it up.
Emma cleared her throat. "Sorry."
Regina rolled her eyes. Take me inside now? She walked over to Emma and put her front paws on her leg, looked up at her and put on her best kitten face.
Emma grinned down at her her. "You want me to pick you up?" She leaned down to do exactly that but a voice from behind her stopped her.
"Good afternoon, Emma." Emma turned to see Archie Hopper and his companion Pongo standing behind her. She smiled politely.
"Hey Archie."
"How is everything?" He asked kindly.
"Pretty good. It's been pretty peaceful around here so that helps."
He nodded. "I'm glad to hear it."
Emma smiled. "Yeah. It's nice."
"How's everyone?" He asked suddenly.
"Great actually." Emma replied with a shrug.
Move along, Bug. Regina thought from her place hidden behind Emma's legs.
She shifted uncomfortably and that seemed to catch Pongo's eye. The dog moved around Emma, undetected and his eyes widened when he saw the cat. Regina gave him a disinterested look.
He leaned in more and sniffed her. Regina's eyes widened in realization. He's a dog and I'm a damn cat.
Uh... Emma?
The dog sniffed her a little longer, she leaned back. His head alone was almost bigger than her entire body.
He pulled back with a snarl.
Be a good boy, Pongo and please do not eat me.
He started to growl but neither Emma nor Hopper seemed to notice since they were so into their conversation.
Remember when I baked you those homemade dog biscuits?
He continued to growl and she backed up a little but he moved closer. His longer legs making him move faster.
Oh no... Regina doesn't usually panic but she was at that moment.
He leaned in more, she moved back a little more until she was backed against the wall of the sheriff station. She was trapped. Her wide eyes darting around for a way of escape. She could feel his breath on her face and in all honesty, the smell was foul. He opened his mouth and barked loudly and aggressively. Almost angrily. Regina jumped three feet into the air. Her tail fluffing out and her fur standing up on end.
That seemed to catch the humans' attention. They both turned to the scene just when Pongo snapped at her.
Her eyes were wide open and her chest was heaving. The dog pulled on the leash and Archie wasn't quick enough. Pongo yanked the leash from the man's hand. Regina jumped in the air again and took off.
She made a quick decision darted off down the street. Instinct guiding her. Her small paws hit the hard ground but the only thing on her mind was escaping this threat. She could hear Pongo's barks and growls behind her getting closer.
Her small legs continued to pump as her eyes darted around looking for a place to hide. She heard Emma behind her and she knew that Emma would do everything to protect her but from the sound of her voice, she was too far away. Regina was on her own with this one.
God, please don't let me die in the body of a cat.
As they made it down the block, zig zagging down the sidewalk, her tiny heart racing, she finally saw it...
A safe haven.
As she reached the tall tree, she didn't hesitate, trusting instinct as she jumped onto the rough bark and dug her claws into it. She climbed up higher, narrowly escaping Pongo's jaws. The powerful snap of it could be heard as she continued to climb up until she reached the third highest branch. Stopping and hopping on to the tree limb, she looked down.
Pongo had his paws on the trunk of the tree, using it to stand on two legs, barking away. She tried to catch her breath. Now, she knew what it meant when they say your whole life flashes before your eyes when you have a near death experience.
Having had many of those. It had never really happened until now.
I'll remember this, Pongo. Too bad Cruella isn't around anymore. She clearly missed one.
She tried to slow down her racing heartbeat.
Emma finally caught up. She looked slightly winded as she cupped a hand over her brow and looked up. She sighed in relief and placed a hand on her chest, over her heart.
"Stay right there." Emma called up.
Not a problem... I don't plan on ever coming down...
Eventually Archie caught up. He grabbed Pongo's leash and began apologizing to Emma repeatedly. She must've told him the story during their jog over... well the fabricated story. That I'm a missing cat.
Emma nodded at the man and clapped him on the shoulder.
Why on earth are you apologizing to her? I'm the one that was almost maimed. Stupid insect.
The man bid Emma goodbye with another apology that Emma accepted with a smile then was on his way. Emma watched them go to make sure they were far away enough for Pongo to no longer be a threat. She turned back to the cat. "Ready to come down?"
Regina shook her head. Nope.
Emma smiled. "It's okay. Come on down."
Regina sighed. Still slightly shook up by her near death experience. Who would have thought a mangy mutt could frazzle the ex Evil Queen?
She walked over to the trunk and looked at it. Let's see here... She eyed it for a moment then looked down at the sheriff who was watching her with her hands on her hips.
Regina turned back to the tree trying to contemplate a way of getting down. She drew a blank and when she looked at the ground again, she panicked. She's not even afraid of heights.
That drop. She thought feeling the world spin as a sudden wave of dizziness overcame her. She closed her eyes and willed the black and white world to stop spinning.
"Hey!" Emma called up. Regina looked down at her. Her eyes wide and frightened and she saw Emma's eyes widen in return. "Whats wrong?"
Oh nothing, I'm just relaxing in the shade... what do you think, Emma?! I'm stuck!
Emma panicked as she watched the fear in the cat's eyes. She could count the times she's seen fear in Regina's eyes and that only included times that Henry or Emma herself were in danger. This was serious. Emma hung her head and rubbed her eyes with her thumb and forefinger. "You're stuck." She mumbled. She looked up at the cat again. She didn't move, she was frozen in place.
Emma had her answer.
Emma dug into her back pocket and pulled out her phone. "Don't move okay?"
Don't worry. I won't...
Emma put her phone to ear. "Hey Dad, we have a problem..."
Thanks for reading. :)
Okay, so I saw a few suggestions for Regina to get chased by a dog and I just had to. lol. I hope I delivered.
I'm thinking of a having a few special guest appearances as well. But first let's get Regina out of that damn tree.
Please review. See ya at the next update.