A/N: Hey! Sorry for the delay. I won't make excuses.
Thanks for being patient with me!
I own nothing. Sorry for mistakes. Enjoy.
Chapter 10
With great concentration, Regina carefully scaled the windowsill. She was terrified of the long drop from the third story apartment but her anger at both Snow White and Emma Swan was driving her forward. She was furious at Emma for just leaving her and treating her like she was some kind of pet. She was not a pet. Sure she was cute and fuzzy but she is most certainly not a pet. She is a queen and she demands to be treated as such. That's why she's leaving. Maybe she could find someone who could treat her the way that she deserved and not like some common animal. Emma Swan had her chance and she blew it. Blew it big time when she left her in the care of that idiot Snow White. She growled, the tremors running through her tiny body. She reached the edge of the sill and she had to leap to the other one and then she could jump onto the next one. That one led to the fire escape and after that it would be easier to climb down.
She crouched down low and she steadied herself. She swished her tail from side to side as she eyed her destination. It wasn't a far jump and she knew she could do it. She was becoming more and more confident in her cat abilities. Without more hesitation, she leapt across the small gap. Her heart skipped a beat as she soared through the air but she landed onto the other surface with perfect poise. She shook her coat out and looked behind her. It was a long leap after all but she made it. She was getting pretty good at that cat stuff. She put her tail up into the air and strolled on with her head held high. She was proud of herself and for a moment her anger had gone. She shook her head and forced herself to remember Snow locking her away. Then just like that the rage was back.
How dare her choose those strangers over me. I'm her friend. She knows me. She knows I would never do anything to harm Neal.She thought feeling a bit hurt.
Regina leapt onto the fire escape and began hopping down the rickety metal steps like she had done plenty of times in the Charmings' apartment. It should be a piece of cake but those steps where a lot steeper. She just paid close attention and was very careful and before she knew it she made it to the bottom step. She was still far away from the ground though. There was a ladder but she knew she could not reach that and even if she could, she could was not strong enough to pull it down to the ground. She looked around for somewhere to land on to cushion the drop, not particularly wanting to challenge the 'all cats land on their feet theory'. She spotted a flower bed on the sill of one of the bottom floor apartments. Her weight could likely ruin the flowers.
Oh well.
She jumped down and landed directly onto the beautiful little bed of daisies. She loved the smell and enjoyed it for a moment. She then walked through them before jumping out and landing on the concrete.
Now that's how it's done. She thought. She stood on the sidewalk and looked in both directions. She hadn't exactly thought the whole thing through. Regina was notorious for acting before thinking. It has gotten her into trouble many times before. This incident obviously was not going to be any different. She didn't care though. She couldn't stay there with Snow White a moment longer. She needed to be as far away from her as possible.
She looked down the street. She recognized that direction. She could go that way to her office. She had no idea what time it was but she decided to head there. Maleficent would probably be there. Perhaps not with it being a weekend but she had to try.
Maybe Mal wouldn't abandon me and actually treat me like the queen I am. Regina thought bitterly as she walked off down the street. Emma has been good to her but Regina didn't want to think about that too much because she was angry at her. The human in her was screaming that her anger was misdirected but she didn't care. At the moment the cat was winning out and that's why she was running away. Right then she wanted Emma to find out where she was and who she was with just to make her jealous. She never understood why Emma was so jealous of her friendship with Maleficent but it would work in her favor.
The cool concrete underneath the soft pads on her paws was uncomfortable and she really would have preferred to be carried. In fact Regina really liked being carried. She loved the way Emma tucked her beneath her arm and took her where she wanted to go.
If only Emma were here now. She thought with a sigh. No. Emma's not here because she left me. She pouted then. She couldn't believe that Emma did that. She was too upset with her. What did Emma think would happen? Every time she left Regina alone with Snow White bad things happened.
She huffed and turned her nose up to the sky as her tail pointed straight up as well. She was going to walk down to town hall and stay there until Emma comes for her. She planned to give her a very hard time. She deserved nothing less.
She continued down the street. Her senses were wide open and she could smell and feel everything. The grass smelled so crisp and fresh and oh she loved the smells of all of the different flowers. She walked over to a patch of wildflowers and started to smell them but something caught her eye. It was a small orange butterfly. This one was not as large as the last but still just as pretty. She watched as it sat on the flower and flapped its wings. That really excited her and she crouched low to the ground.
Stay right there. Don't move.
She wagged her tail back and forth as she watched her unsuspecting victim. She readied her hind legs to pounce. She was just about to launch herself onto her prey when something caught her attention out of the corner of her eye. The low buzzing sound was bouncing around in her head and she knew that sound well. She turned slowly and her eyes widened when she saw the little yellow and black, fuzzy insect perched on a flower right next to her. She screeched and jumped into the air.
A bee! She panicked.
The bee was immediately startled and went into defensive mode. It abandoned the flower and began buzzing around her, clearly looking for a good place to sting her.
Oh no, you don't!
Regina leapt up and darted out of the small patch of flowers. Her little paws moving as quickly as they could. She could still hear the buzzing and she looked over her shoulder to see the mean little bug trying to land on her. She already knew what that meant. She had been stung by a bee before when she was a young child. She had to be no older than four. She was out playing in the field when she picked up a flower. She didn't know that was the same flower an angry bee wanted but she figured it out when she felt the sharp burning pain of the sting. She had felt many different pains after that but she could never forget that one.
She never wanted to experience that again.
She kept up an easy but quick pace nearly out running it. She sharply hooked a corner and raced down the street. She looked both ways and darted across the street. She just kept running and the bee stayed on her, clearly wanting nothing more than to sting her. She had no idea how long or how far she had run but she reached a completely different neighborhood. She ran passed the rows of quaint little houses. She was growing tired. She hadn't any idea how far she had traveled but even with her increased stamina and metabolism she was slowing down. She looked around for a route of escape. All she saw was fence after fence. She huffed in frustration. She couldn't let that thing catch her.
She raced down the block with the bee hot on her heels. It was obviously waiting for an opportunity to land on her so it could poke her with its stinger. Her eyes caught something and she sighed in relief. There was a fence but there was a small gap between it and the ground that she could easily squeeze under. She darted to the side really quickly and slid under the fence with ease. One thing she was beginning to learn as a cat was that once her head fit through something there was no problem for the rest of her body.
She looked behind her to see the bee was slowed down but she hadn't lost it. She took off running again just as it flew in through the tiny space between the fence. She rolled her eyes and continued to run across the lawn. She darted up the porch steps and that's when she saw it. Her route of escape. There was a small doggy door.
She knew that that was her only chance of evasion. She ran across the porch and she could hear the angry buzzing behind her. She ran up to the door and dove head first into the little slot. It gave way and she toppled into the house. She landed upside down on her head with her back leaned across the door. She was trying to catch her breath and calm her pounding heart. She's surprised that the damn thing hadn't exploded yet.
She rolled over until she was right side up again. She sat there wagging her tail as she watched the door making sure that the bee wouldn't bust in and sting her. After a few moments passed she began to relax. Okay good. She thought. She was safe. She turned around and looked at the nice but very modest home that she had broken into. She tilted her head and took it in. Most likely these people would not like to find a random cat in their home. What if they have a dog?
She stood up and went to push her head through the doggy door to check that the bee was gone so that she could be on her way. The next sound she heard sent a chill down her spine.
"Kitty?" A child's voice said. She froze and didn't turn around. She could hear the sound of little shoes hitting the floor as the child ran towards her. She froze in place too scared to move. Her little heart was hammering in her chest and the fur on her back stood. She knew that children equaled pain, but why couldn't she just run away? "Hi kitty."
She could feel the presence of the little child looming over her. She turned slowly to see a toddler no older than three looking down at her with a huge smile. The little girl's blonde hair was pulled into pigtails and she was absolutely adorable in her little denim jumper dress. Regina let go of her fear for a moment as she looked at the cute little child.
Hello there. After a moment it clicked who the child was. That was Cinderella's daughter. Princess Alexandra. Oh you are so cute.She has seen the little girl around town and she thought she was so well behaved.
In a sudden movement the little girl's chubby hand reached out and she went to grab her. Regina tensed again and her fear was back. She instantly realized how much danger she was in. In her experience with Neal she learned that little hands meant pain. She squeezed her eyes shut as the child's hand hovered above her furry head. She felt a series of much too rough pats on her head.
"Pretty Kitty." Alexandra said with a small giggle. "Nice Kitty."
She petted Regina's head again that time a bit gentler. Regina peeked one eye open to see Alexandra kneeling in front of her. She opened her other eye. The little girl was smiling.
Aww. Regina thought. She began to relax. Clearly this child was not going to hurt her.
Alexandra giggled again. Then her little hands shot out. All Regina could think was oh no as the child reached out for her. Regina jumped to her feet then and started to back up to the doggy door to try and make a quick escape but Alexandra pounced on her and her little arms wrapped around her stomach then she was lifted from the floor. Regina wiggled and wiggled hoping the child would lose her grip but she was strong for a toddler. She was pressed to the little girl's shoulder like one would hold an infant.
Oh no. No, no, no, no. She thought as Alexandra turned around and headed back the way she had came. Regina looked back at the doggy door as it became farther away. Her only chance of escape. Her only chance at freedom.
What have I gotten myself into? She thought as Alexandra turned a corner and the door vanished from sight.
That's when she knew she was really in trouble.
Emma clomped up the stairs of the apartment building until she hit the top landing. She was supposed to be off the clock but apparently the sleepy town doesn't sleep because she was stuck doing paper work for some kids caught shoplifting from Sneezy's pharmacy again. It took a while but she was done fairly quickly and she headed straight home after. Now she planned to take it easy and spend the rest of her day with Regina in the peace and quiet of her room where no one could disturb them. Regina would enjoy that.
Yes, Regina. Her best friend and the mother of her child. Hopefully their little guests were gone so that they could have some time alone.
Her relationship with Regina has shifted dramatically. Well, not exactly. Emma always felt an overwhelming need to be around Regina but Emma was pretty sure that Regina didn't feel the same. Now this cat version of Regina is always all over her and Emma would be lying if she said she didn't like the attention. Actually she loved it. She wanted to know where she stood with human Regina though. She wanted to know if the feeling was mutual. They needed to have a talk once Regina was back to her human self. Whenever that would be.
She let out a sigh as she stopped in front of her apartment. She quickly unlocked the door and carefully opened it in case Regina was sitting there still waiting. She heard her meowing, calling her back when she left her earlier and honestly she hated to leave her. It was difficult but she just reminded herself that it was Regina and Regina could take care of herself.
She peeked inside and to her disappoint there was no little ball of fur waiting for her. She sighed and stepped inside shutting the door behind her. As soon as she locked the door behind her, she was ambushed by her mother. The woman came seemingly out of nowhere carrying Emma's brother on her hip.
"Emma, good thing you're here." Snow said with a sigh.
"Why?" Emma was curious and worried. Her mother looked flustered and the cat was nowhere to be found. Emma went into immediate panic mode. Her mother killed her cat. That was the only explanation she could come to. "Where is-"
"She's in the bathroom." Snow said cutting her off. Emma let out a sigh of relief. Well, at least she was alive. "She's in time out. She was being a very bad girl today."
Emma's brows rose. She couldn't imagine Regina being a bad girl necessarily being a bad thing. "What did she do?" She asked as she shrugged out of her jacket. She hung it up.
"Well, for one, she and her guests destroyed my bedroom and nearly startled Neal to death." Snow explained. The little boy in her arms began squirming to get down. She let him down and he waddled off. Emma crossed her arms over her chest and eyed her mother.
"He looks fine now." Emma said with a shrug.
"Well yes, the cat has been locked up for a while. He's calmed down but you should have seen him then."
Emma shook her head. She watched her brother go to the bathroom door and knock with his tiny fist. He began calling, 'kitty come out'. She looked back at her mother. "Yeah he's completely traumatized." She rolled her eyes and brushed passed her. "I mean, seriously mom, no wonder she won't talk to you."
"Has she spoken to you?" Snow asked curiously as she followed her to the bathroom. "What did she say?"
"Nothing." Emma sighed as she rubbed at her forehead. She really just wanted to grab Regina and head upstairs away from her mother. Neal could come if he wanted but Emma has had enough of Snow White for one day and she's sure that Regina felt the same.
"Kit!" Neal said to Emma and his little hand tapped the door as if telling his big sister that the cat is locked up in there.
"Thanks buddy." Emma said as she passed him to open the door and free Snow White's little prisoner. "Okay, the warden says you're free to go." she announced as she pushed the door open.
She waited for the ball of black fur to pop up but when she didn't see anything she peeked inside. The bathroom was completely empty. Regina was not in there. Before panicking, Emma turned back to Snow. "Mom, are you sure the cat is in here?" she asked trying her damnedest to stay calm.
Neal slipped into the bathroom and stood in the middle of the room. He looked around with a frown. He looked back at his sister with a little pout on his face. "Kit kit, bye bye, Mema."
Emma nodded. "Yeah I know, kid." She looked at her mother and saw her glancing around the empty room.
"She was in here." Snow said firmly. "She was!"
"Well she's not, mom." Emma said seriously. "She's not here."
Snow sighed. "I see that, Emma."
"Oh do you?" Emma asked dryly and her mother gave her a look before going off to look for their missing cat in the living room. Emma shook her head and looked around the bathroom. Even if Regina had pulled a Houdini and escaped she would have come out to greet Emma. The whole situation was setting her on edge.
"She couldn't have gotten far." Snow mumbled as she looked under the coffee table. Just as the words left Snow's mouth Emma's eyes caught something that made her stomach sink. There was a little cat sized crack in the window. Surely Regina wouldn't... Oh she would if she was angry enough. Emma stepped into the bathroom. Her brother looked at her with his little brows furrowed as she passed him.
"What wrong, Mema?" He asked quietly, sensing that his sister was upset.
Emma walked over to the window. She opened it and looked out. She looked around and saw exactly how the cat could have escaped. She sighed and closed her eyes. She closed the window and stepped back.
"Mema." Neal said following her out of the room. He clearly didn't like being ignored. She knelt down and kissed his head.
"I have to go find the kitty." She told him. He nodded.
"She okay?" He asked.
Emma smiled. "Yes. She's tough."
He nodded. "Okay."
She gave him another smile and stood. She walked passed her mother who had stopped from searching underneath the couch to watch her. "Where are you going?" She asked.
"To find the damn cat." Emma grumbled low enough for her mother to hear and not her brother.
"What do you mean?" Snow asked getting to her feet. She followed Emma to the door.
"She got out." Emma said putting her jacket on. "You left the window open and she escaped."
Snow's hand went to her mouth and she gasped. "I didn't... oh no. I'm so sorry, Emma." Emma said nothing but grabbed the doorknob. "How are you going to find her?"
Emma sighed before turning to her mother. "I don't know." She said with a shrug. "Finding people is what I do. I'm sure it works on cats too. She hasn't gotten that far."
Snow nodded. "Do you want some help?"
"No." Emma said sharply. "You've done enough. I'll come back once I've found her."
At that she slammed the door behind her and stormed down the stairs. She should have felt slightly guilty about raising her voice but she didn't. Emma was furious. Not only with her mother but with herself as well. She felt that this whole thing was her fault. It was her fault that Regina was a cat and now she was out there in the world. Anything could have happened to her. Emma would never forgive herself if something bad happened to Regina. She needed to find her and soon. She needed her with her and safe.
She stepped out onto the street and shivered. It was getting late and it'll be cold soon. She needed to find Regina and quick. Once she does, she's never letting her out of her sight again.
She looked down the sidewalk trying to decide which way she would go. Regina would likely try to go home or her office. So she went towards Main Street. She decided to walk because that way she could see everything. She just hoped she found her soon and she was okay.
Regina sat at the little white table. Beside her on each side were a stuffed rabbit and a bear. Both were wearing tea time hats. On the table before them were four pink tea cups. A pink teapot and a saucer with a plate of real cookies. She looked up at her hostess. The little blonde girl was wearing a huge smile and a little blue hat. She had on white gloves and a little blue pretend dress. It was absolutely adorable. Moments like this really made Regina want a daughter.
She knew that if she made it out of there alive she would look into ways of getting another baby.
Alexandra offered the cat a cookie and sat it down in front of her. Regina looked down and sniffed it. It did smell nice but for some reason she had no desire to eat it. Which was strange but she chalked it up to just being a cat.
Alexandra started humming as she lifted the teapot and began pouring imaginary tea into the cup in front of all of the guests and then herself. She smiled as she took a sip of her tea.
"Yummy." The little girl giggled and sat her cup down before grabbing a cookie. Regina knew that she should have been scared but the little girl was just so cute and she had been gentle with her so far.
Alexandra reached over and Regina squeezed her eyes shut as the little girl patted her on the head. It wasn't as rough as it was with Neal but it wasn't as gentle as Emma's or Snow's touch. She felt a sudden ache in her chest when she thought of Emma. Emma probably was home by then and has found out that she was gone. She was probably worried sick about her but Regina pushed that thought aside because if Emma had cared she wouldn't have left her alone with that idiot Snow White. That's why she planned to go somewhere away from all of them.
She looked at the child before her that was playing quietly. Well, if she ever got out of there.
She took in her surroundings. The room was decorated a soft pink and yellow. There was a scene of the Disney version of Cinderella dancing with the Prince painted on one of the walls right near the little yellow toddler bed. Little cute stuffed animals were piled on top of a little pink armchair. A doll house made like a castle sat in the corner beside a toy chest. The room was adorable and fit the little princess well.
She could hear footsteps approaching and her ears perked up instantly. She turned towards the sound. She looked over just as Ashley Boyd or Cinderella appeared in the doorway of the room. She was dressed casually as usual in jeans and a boring plain tee. Regina could never really figure out how old the girl was. She was not quite as old as Snow. Maybe she was along with Ruby. But how old was Ruby? Curses made such things foggy.
Ashley smiled at the little girl and the little girl smiled back. The woman's eyes swept the room and the smile fell from her face when she saw the cat. She didn't look upset, she didn't look scared, she just looked plain concerned and curious.
"Alex," She began as she took a step into the room to get a better look at their house guest who was sporting a pink fluffy doll dress and bonnet. "Where did the kitty cat come from?" She asked gently. The little blonde child furrowed her brows and looked up at her mother. She shrugged and pointed to the door. "Outside?"
Alexandra shook her head. "Door."
Cinderella furrowed her brow in confusion and stared at her daughter. Her gaze then drifted towards the cat. She walked over to the table. The cat watched her very closely unsure of what was going to happen next. The woman lowered herself until she could get a good look at the cat. "Hello there." She said reaching a tentative hand out. Regina decided to throw her a bone so she leaned forward allowing the woman to stroke her coat. "Where did you come from?"
Your daughter abducted me. Regina thought with a hint of amusement. But it's nice being pampered.
Cinderella continued to pet her. "I think this is the kitty cat that was on those signs, remember?" she looked at her daughter.
Alexandra nodded. "Yes mommy."
"Her family must be really missing her." Cinderella added.
I doubt it, Regina thought bitterly. And I certainly do not miss them.
"I thought the sheriff was caring for her." Cinderella mumbled more to herself. "I wonder what happened."
Apparently they weren't worthy.
Cinderella began gently taking the clothes off of the cat and setting them down. Honestly Regina was used to being dressed up and it hardly fazed her anymore. Cinderella petted Regina's head then stood up. She smiled at her then at her daughter.
"Come on." Cinderella said offering the child her hand. "Let's get you ready for dinner. Daddy will be here soon."
Alexandra giggled at the mention of her father and slipped her hand into her mother's. She jumped down from the chair.
"And dinner for kitty?" Alexandra asked looking up at her mother. Cinderella smiled and patted her daughter on the head and rewarded her thoughtfulness with a smile.
"Yes. We will bring her a bowl of milk." She said. Her daughter nodded in approval. "We have to take good care of her for now."
Meh. Regina thought. I prefer cream but milk will do. Make sure its low-fat. I won't be a fluffball forever and who knows what all of these fatty foods I've been eating will do to my human figure.
She watched quietly as mother and daughter then exited the room hand in hand. She sighed. Those two blondes made her miss her favorite blonde. The big, adorable, lovable idiot with the goofy smile and the gentle green eyes. But no. She was mad at Emma. No matter how difficult the thought of her charm made it. No, Emma left. She did a bad thing.
Regina looked around the room. It was nice feeling wanted but it was time that she was on her way. She was delighted to find that the child's bedroom window was open. That was her way out. She shook out her coat and leapt down from the chair. She trotted across the green carpeted floor- that she assumed was supposed to be reminiscent of grass- to the window. She wiggled and positioned herself. She used her hind legs to launch herself to the white windowsill. She flew straight up and landed perfectly on the little white sill.
She shook out her coat and pranced across the surface to the crack in the window, she slid her head through before pulling her back half out as well. She inhaled the fresh air and had an overwhelming desire to run. She looked down to see how far her drop was and her eyes blew open. That was a pretty long drop. A two story one to be more specific. She could always go back the other way and try to escape through the doggy door. But that would risk Alexandra seeing her then she will never escape. Jumping was the only way.
She looked down and her attention zeroed in on the bushes below. If she could just aim for that then she will be okay. She closed her eyes and tried to focus. She wiggled her back legs and prepared to pounce. She held her breath and used her hind legs to catapult herself off of the window ledge. She soared through the crisp air for a moment, her fur flying through the wind. With a soft 'oof' she made contact with the bushes as they cushioned her fall.
She was slightly tangled within them but with some squirming, she eventually freed herself. Her head popped out first and then the rest of her. She leapt down and landed in the soft green grass. She looked back at the house then decided to be on her way.
She took a step but then she felt a weight on her head as if something landed on it.
Regina was confused until she heard the familiar singing of a bluebird. She shook her head and the bird flew off. It hovered above her and she looked at the little round flying creature. It sang a happy little tune then began flying away.
Oh no, you don't.
She leapt up to catch it but it flew higher. She huffed and glared at it. It let out a happy little tweet then flew across the yard. She watched it as it landed on the fence of the backyard. It looked at her as if to say that it was waiting. Regina shook her coat out and darted across the yard. The bird sang merrily and hopped off of the fence and began flying again. Regina squeezed through the gap in the fence and took off chasing the bird down the street.
Okay then. Let's play this game.
Emma was pretty sure that she had never been that worried or furious. For one she was mad with her mother for locking Regina up. It's seems like it's her goal in life to irritate the cat. Two, she was upset with Regina for leaving. Just because Snow White wrongfully accused her doesn't give her the right to abandon her family. By family, Emma meant Henry and well... herself. They were a family. Not only for Henry but for each other.
It wasn't lost on Emma how she felt about Regina. Regina is her best friend and she's positive that she is Regina's as well. They're close and so important to each other. The feelings they share runs deep and what Emma feels is intense. Cat or not. There is no way that Regina doesn't feel it. It sort of hurt her that Regina would run off like that.
That's why when she found Regina, they were going to have a nice little talk. It was time. Even though Regina couldn't speak back, she felt that she could still hear what Emma needed to say. She felt that if she was open, things wouldn't have gotten so intense. Maybe if Regina knew where she stood with Emma and she knew how much she meant to her she would think twice about putting her butt in danger. She needed to tell Regina how much she had worried her and why. Emma was ready for that shift in their friendship.
She needed Regina to know that she was important to her. She was ready to take that step.
If she ever found her.
Emma sighed as she continued down the street. She was thinking like Regina. She was going to start with basic places Regina would go. First her office and then her home. If she didn't find her there she would pay a shape shifting dragon sorceress a visit. It would make sense that she would go to her since Maleficent could communicate with her. Emma hated that she couldn't. She wanted to give it a try. She knew that she had the ability in her. Her mother was Snow White. The one with the gift for speaking to animals. In fact all Disney Princess had that skill Emma had learned from watching the films growing up. Ariel, Aurora, Cinderella-sort of, and the list goes on. Emma. Well, Princess Emma should have the gift. Maybe being able to communicate with Regina could help.
Besides she didn't want Regina running off to that Dragon Lady ever. She could get whatever she needed from Emma. She didn't need her.
She rolled her eyes at the idea of having to speak to her mother about it. She was still mad at her but she would swallow her pride for Regina. Only for her.
A buzzing in her pocket pulled her out of her musings. It took her a moment to realize that it was her phone vibrating in her pocket. She fished it out and noticed that she didn't recognize the number. With a heavy sigh Emma answered regardless since being the sheriff, using the excuse 'my cat is missing' doesn't exactly fly when there's another emergency to be dealt with.
"Hello?" She muttered as she looked around the street for any sign of the cat.
"Hi." A very familiar voice said through the line. "Hey Sheriff. It's me Ashley."
Emma chuckled. Cinderella. She hadn't spoken to her since the curse broke. It was nice to hear from her but she wished it was a better time. "Hey, Ashley. How are you?"
Ashley chuckled. "Great. Fantastic."
"That's good to hear." Emma said slightly distracted. "How is the little one?"
"Oh, Alexandra is doing great." She said happily. "She's growing up so fast. You know, when I look at her, I can't believe that she was supposed to be a little older than you."
Emma laughed awkwardly. "Yeah well..."
Ashley chuckled. "Sorry. I didn't mean to put you on the spot."
"No it's okay." Emma sighed. She's heard it before though. Their parents had planned for them to be playmates. The curse happened and well... It sucked but at the same time, if the curse didn't happen she wouldn't have Regina. Something tells her that she would rather have Regina.
"Well, I won't keep you. I'm sure you have sheriff or savior things to do." Ashley said politely. "Just... there is a black cat here. She looks a lot like the cat from the flyers. I don't know how she escaped from you but I have her."
Emma let out an instant sigh of relief. Oh the knots in her stomach loosened and she had to stop for a moment. "Thank you. She escaped earlier and I've been looking for her." She closed her eyes and thanked whoever made this happen. She needed to see Regina right away. "I'll be there soon."
"Okay. Just know she's okay and she's the perfect little princess." Ashley said. Emma could hear the concern in her voice. Ashley was a very caring person and very kind. Regina was in very good hands. She could relax knowing that. "We'll be here. I'll text you our address."
Emma nodded to herself and disconnected the call. She was so relieved that Regina was okay and that she was found by someone like Ashley. In a moment she received a new message. She opened it to find a text from Ashley containing her address. Emma looked up at the street sign. She was on Huckleberry Way. Ashley was located on Palace Avenue. The neighborhood where most of the princesses had ended up after the curse broke. She wondered how Regina had ended up all of the way over there.
It wasn't a far trip for a human but she could only imagine what it was like for Regina. She needed to see her and make sure she was okay. Anything could have happened. She couldn't wait to get her back into her care. She set off into a jog for Ashley's place. She chuckled to herself when she thought of Ashley referring to Regina as a 'perfect little princess'. Oh she couldn't wait to tease Regina about that one.
Regina strolled down the streets of Storybrooke. It was a lovely day and she was enjoying herself but it was getting late. She was not far from her destination. Just a few blocks. She stopped to smell the flowers along her trip down the sidewalk. She could feel her anger at the Charming family subsiding a bit. Well, she was still angry at Snow. That seemed to be the theme in their relationship. Snow upsetting her, her being oblivious to it and Regina marinating in her rage. It was the cycle of their relationship. She should be used to it by now. Who didn't deserve that were Emma and Henry. They didn't deserve to have her run off.
She imagined Emma worrying about her. Running around town searching for her. Her eyes wide and her panic face set in. Regina hated being the one that put it there. She looked back the way she came. It would be a long journey home but it would be worth it to see Emma's beautiful face again.
She stopped walking and sat down on the side walk. She had reached Main Street and it would be a nice little walk back but she was ready. She felt a light weight on her head and she knew it was her little bird friend that had stayed with her since they met in the yard. She wondered for a moment if the bird was sent by Snow White. Those were her favorite types of birds and the bird had been an extraordinary companion during their time together. She wouldn't be surprised if Snow sent her to keep an eye on her.
The made her wonder. Maybe Snow did care. Sure she didn't know that the cat was Regina but she still cared about the cat. That was something. She was still furious at her though. She probably just sent the bird to make sure that she was alive so she wouldn't have to feel guilty.
She still missed Emma something fierce and she just wanted to climb into bed with her and snuggle against her chest and listen to her heart beat. She wanted to be alone with her without interruptions. That was the only time she felt completely safe. She knew that Emma would protect her. She always has.
It was settled. She was going home to Emma and their son.
She turned and started to head back the way she came but she heard something that made her ears perk up. She stopped dead in her tracks and turned back around. She listened again and there it was.
A meow.
It was small and high pitched and must have belonged to a kitten. Regina's curiosity was piqued. She turned towards the sound. Her feline hearing traced the sound to an alleyway. It was slightly dark but lit by the setting sun nonetheless. She couldn't leave an innocent little kitten alone in an alley. Though she was a cat herself she had to at least try to help. She inched closer to the alley and she heard the bird that was still nestled on her head squawking, clearly trying to get her to go home. She shook head almost making the bird fall off. The bird let out an indignant tweet but fell silent. Regina nodded to herself and took a few more steps towards the alley. She peeked around the corner. The smell struck her and her heightened senses immediately. She gagged at the odor of garbage from the large green dumpsters. Her eyes were burning and she didn't understand how humans could tolerate certain smells but she wished that she had her human senses at that moment.
She squinted and scanned the area with her glowing eyes and that's when she saw it. Another pair of glowing green eyes peeking at her from underneath a dumpster. She instantly cooed in her mind at the little eyes that were probably attached to a tiny cat.
Hey there, little one. She thought as she tiptoed into the alley. It felt like the smell was pushing her back but she couldn't leave that kitten behind. She stepped further inside, inching closer to the dumpster. She could smell the little one then. He didn't smell dirty at all and he looked healthy. She ducked her head to peek under the dumpster. The kitten inched towards her and poked his little head out.
Oh that face. Those big green eyes and that pink nose. His ears were much too large for his body and he had the friendliest little face. She admired his orange coat and its tiny stripes. He was too cute for words. She leaned down and he leaned up, wiggling his little nose as he sniffed her. He came too close and bopped her nose with his. The kitten leaned back in surprise and Regina was highly amused by his shyness. She always secretly thought that baby animals were cute. She couldn't show or admit that because she had a reputation to uphold as the evil queen but right now it didn't matter. The little orange tabby with the green eyes was stealing her breath away.
He meowed and stepped from under the dumpsters. Her rubbed his furry cheek on hers and Regina instantly fell in love. He rubbed his head under her chin and began purring happily.
Oh my. She thought. You are too precious for words, my dear.
The kitten began purring louder and snuggling closer to her. The bird chirped in surprise. My thoughts exactly. She needed to get back to her family but this little one was alone. Maybe she could bring him home with her. But did she want to share Emma with him?
No.
But he was all alone and she couldn't abandon him. He wouldn't survive out there. She barely has. That's it. He's coming with her.
Let's see. How do I get him to follow me? She thought.
A low growl broke through her musings. She looked down. The kitten was looking up at her with big scared eyes. It definitely wasn't him. She didn't know whether to run or what. Before she got to think too much on it, she saw a figure emerge from behind the dumpster. It was a white medium sized scruffy dog. He had a red bandanna tied around his neck and there was a gray spot on his back. His eyes zoomed in on Regina's designer collar and he crouched down low, baring his fangs. The kitten scrambled and ran behind her.
Little coward.She mentally scoffed.
She backed up and that's when a brown bulldog joined the white dog followed by a Chihuahua. There was also a large brown dog with a pointy snout that looked more like a show dog than a street dog. They were all growling and looked ready to maul her. Regina continued to back up. She was vastly outnumbered and her back up was a three week old kitten and a bird. She was dead.
Her heart was hammering in her chest harder than it was with Pongo. She frantically looked for a route of escape as the dogs inched closer. She couldn't run because as they were closing in they were blocking her only exit. She bristled and took a step back. Her tail was standing straight up and so was the fur on her back. Her ears were slicked back and her lip curled revealing her sharp fangs. The dogs of course were bigger in size and numbers so they were not threatened by this tiny cat dressed in a fancy collar. She was no match for them.
Go away, I'm warning you. She thought as she growled. That just seemed to anger them.
The dogs inched closer and she could feel them closing in. She could smell their foul stench. Dogs never smelled nice to her but as a cat it was even worse. She could feel their growls within her body. So many sharp teeth. She was shaking. She backed up in an attempt to protect the little one. They backed into a wall and there was nowhere else to go.
This is it. Goodbye Henry. Goodbye Emma.
The lead dog with the bandanna lunged at her and opened his mouth. She squeezed her eyes shut bracing to be torn to shreds. The door flinging open caused him to stop and scramble backwards. Regina's eyes shot open at the sound of the big metal door. She looked over to see the dogs scrambling backwards, whimpering. Regina stared with confusion at their change in demeanor. They were just about to maul her and now they were cowering?
"What the hell?" Regina heard a familiar voice say. She sighed in relief. She never thought she would be happy to see her. The young woman peeked around the door and a huge smile spread across her face when she saw the cats and the bird. "Hello. Are these big dumb doggies scaring you?"
Regina relaxed and straightened her back. Oh Ruby, I never thought I would be so glad to see you.
The girl's eyes sparkled as she looked the black cat over. "Wait right here." She said holding up a finger. She bent down, picking up something and stepped out, letting the door slam. The dogs jumped and scrambled to get out of her way. She carried two large garbage bags like they were nothing over to the dumpsters and tossed them in. The dogs were cowering in a corner. Regina assumed it was a werewolf thing. In all honestly the young woman was setting her senses on edge as well but she knew that Ruby would never harm her.
She's the biggest sweetest puppy around besides Emma.
Ruby rubbed her hands together. The dogs were shaking. Ruby gave them a look then walked back over to Regina. She squatted down and stared into the scared cat's eyes.
"Don't be scared. Come here let me take care of you and your friends." She said gently. She reached down and gently scooped Regina up with so much love and affection and tucked her under her arm. The bird flew onto her shoulder. She then picked up the kitten. She held him in her palm. She stood with the cats and headed for the door. She shifted them so that she could turn the knob.
She pulled the door open and started to step inside. She then turned to the dogs that were still shaking in fear in the corner. She growled low at them and one whimpered. "Get out of here!" She screamed at that them. One yelped and they all began tripping over themselves as they tried to get out of the alley. "And don't ever come back." She called after them. She watched as they all ran out onto the street. She nodded in satisfaction.
She stepped inside then and let the door close. Judging by the nice smell of food they were obviously in Granny's diner. This was a part she hadn't seen before. They were standing in a dimly lit hallway. She assumed it was the back where Granny did her work. Ruby carried the cats to a room. She pushed the already cracked door open and Regina observed the room. She assumed that it must have been the office. Ruby walked them over and sat the cats down on the desk while the bird took its place on the windowsill. Regina found it to be interesting that the window was wide open but the bird didn't leave. Either she was afraid that the dogs were still out there or Regina was right about it being one of Snow's friends. She didn't mind though because she had grown fond of her.
She looked over at the kitten and noticed that he seemed to like Ruby because he ran over to her. Regina took that opportunity to shake her coat out.
"Sorry about them. Dodger's crew is... meh." The werewolf said with a grin as she lifted up the little orange ball of fur and held him close to her chest. "All of us aren't like that." she bopped him on his nose with her finger. He seemed very amused by that because he placed his paws on her hand, trying to get her to do it again.
Oh so you admit to being a dog? Regina teased in her mind.
"Actually I do, Regina." Ruby replied with a smirk. Regina froze and her eyes widened.
What? She asked with a tilt of her head.
Ruby shook her head as she plopped down in the desk chair gracelessly. The kitten was all over her then, rubbing his cheek on her chin. "I mean your eyes were a dead giveaway but what other cats smell like apples? Also each person or should I say creature, has a specific scent. You have a very distinguishable scent. It's like all sexy and enticing." She explained. Regina mentally raised a brow at the 'sexy' comment. Ruby waved it off. "Anyway, the cat smells like you. Also your voice. Do you know that your thoughts sound like... well... you?"
The cat just stared. What? How? Ruby!
Ruby chuckled. "Sorry. I'm a werewolf." She shrugged. "I can hear all animals." She jabbed a thumb over her shoulder towards the bird. "Your friend over here is a fretting mess."
Regina sighed. Of course. Just don't say anything to anyone.
Ruby shrugged. "Sure. Your secret is safe with me." She said simply. That was understandable. Ruby had no reason to tell besides she has proven to be trustworthy. "What happened though?" she asked curiously.
Emma happened.
Ruby snorted. "Say no more." The kitten continued to rub his face on Ruby's and Ruby stroked his back. "But, how long does it last?"
Regina rolled her eyes. It's hard to say. Weeks, months. Whenever it wears off.
Ruby nodded. "That's rough. You'd find being an animal is freeing. I only truly feel like myself when I'm one with my wolf."
Regina tilted her head again. That was true. She has felt completely free. No worrying about what she was going to wear or her make up. Never having to be concerned about how she was sitting or whether she was using proper grammar. She nodded. Yes. It is nice except when Snow gets a hold of me.
Ruby snorted. "No. Oh my god. Well that explains this." She reached out and touched the collar. "She can be a bit..." She sighed. "She doesn't know that you're the cat?" she asked curiously.
Regina shook her head. No Emma told them she found me. I'm staying with them until it wears off.
Ruby nodded in understanding. "Where is our sexy sheriff anyway?"
Our?Regina asked. She couldn't help the jealousy she felt. She didn't like anyone else calling Emma sexy.
Ruby snorted and laughed. "Relax. She's all yours. I have my eye set on someone else anyway."
All mine?
Ruby giggled and shook her head. "Wow. Even as a cat... Wow. Here I was thinking your animal would open your eyes. Becoming one with your beast is supposed to bring clarity. I guess not."
Open my eyes to what!Regina asked. She felt like Ruby knew a secret about her that she didn't and she didn't like it.
Ruby shrugged. "To the fact that you love Emma." she said simply.
Regina's mouth fell open and Ruby giggled again.
No. Was all Regina said.
Ruby shook her head with a grin. "Yes. And she loves you."
She grabbed the kitten and placed him on the desk. He instantly pranced over to Regina and snuggled up against her. She didn't notice though because she was still staring at Ruby in shock. Her mouth still hanging open. Ruby leaned forward and reached a hand out. She used her finger to close Regina's mouth.
Ruby clapped her hands together and stood up abruptly. "I'll get you guys some cream." She announced.
Regina said nothing and Ruby laughed as she headed for the door. Regina didn't even notice. Her head was spinning. Did she...? She shook her head. No.
Ruby poked her head back into the room and grinned, "You and Emma totally love each other." She singsonged and slipped out of the room with a giggle. Regina gasped and her eyes widened as she stared at the closed door.
No. Was all Regina could think.
She heard the bird tweet. Regina shot a glare at it.
Shut up. No I don't.
She didn't love Emma. Emma was her friend. That was all. Besides if she did, friends love each other. Ruby is not as wise as she thinks she is. Regina huffed and turned away from the door and pouted. Just because she felt a powerful connection to Emma that did not mean that she wanted to kiss her and live happily ever after with her.
Or did she?
No!
Lol! Gina had a play date with Alexandra and found a kitten. I would say she had an eventful day.
Thanks for reading. :)