"So, we have a tradition around here that I forgot to tell you about," Regina said, walking into the living room.
"Okay," Emma said. "What is it?"
"We each open one present tonight," Henry said excitedly. "Then we don't have to totally wait for Santa to come tomorrow morning. He always drops off one early."
"That's nice of him," Emma said, smiling. "So why don't you open yours then?"
"I always go last," Henry said. "You and Mom have to go first."
"Oh, okay," Emma said. She picked up her present, and carefully unwrapped it. It was a little box with detailed designs on it.
"That looks expensive," Henry said in awe. "What is it?"
Emma smiled at Henry's impatience before opening the box. Inside was a necklace with a swan charm attached. "Oh my goodness. It's beautiful."
"Let me put it on for you," Regina said, gently taking the necklace from Emma's hands. Emma turned around, letting Regina slip the necklace around her neck.
"What did you get Mom?" Henry asked. "I don't see a present for you anywhere."
Regina looked around her in confusion. "I could have sworn that I saw a present earlier."
"I'll go look for it," Emma said, standing up. "Go ahead and open yours up Henry. I'll be right back."
"Okay," Henry said, picking up his present. The wrapping paper was gone within seconds, revealing the blank journal underneath. "More paper to write on! Sweet!"
Regina smiled at Henry's happiness. He had always loved to write, and "Santa" knew that.
Emma walked back into the room, carrying a small box with her. "I seem to have found it. Was hiding in your study."
"How very peculiar," Regina said, smirking. "I wonder what it was doing in there?"
Emma shrugged. "No idea. I found it simply by coincidence."
Regina took the little box and unwrapped it. She slowly opened the little box that was wrapped, revealing a dazzling engagement ring.
"Why did Santa get you a ring?" Henry asked.
"Because Santa always knows what you wish for," Regina said, not taking her eyes off of the ring. "And I wished for True Love and my happy ending."
She finally looked up, smiling at seeing Emma kneeling on one knee. Emma gently took the ring from the box. "Well since it seems that Santa is nudging us in this direction, Regina Mills will you marry me?"
Regina smiled as bright as the Christmas tree in the room. "Yes!"
Henry had no idea how this had happened, but he supposed that if Santa approved of his mothers getting married, he had no problem with them getting engaged on Christmas Eve. After all, it wasn't called the magic of Christmas for nothing.
Merry Christmas Eve everyone! I am officially all caught up and back on track after my break! It's great to be back, and I'll be back to posting everyday as usual!