Chapter 10: Be Mine, Valentine
"Are you sure you can handle this, Daddy?" Regina asked as she helped her father into his coat.
Henry chuckled. "It's only across the street, Regina. I think I can make it there and back with no problems. Especially with two beautiful escorts."
"Aww, I love it when he butters us up," Emma replied, buttoning her coat. She held out her arm to Henry. "You ready?"
"I am." He took Emma's arm before taking Regina's. "Lead the way, ladies."
Together, the three of the them exited the apartment building and crossed the street to Granny's diner. Its lights shone in the dark night like a beacon welcoming them home and Regina could already smell one of the woman's famous burgers. Her stomach rumbled.
As they entered the diner, the bell over the door summoned Granny to greet them. She hugged Regina. "Happy early birthday!"
"Thank you, Granny." Regina squeezed her before letting go. "I couldn't break with tradition."
Granny chuckled. "Of course not. I even saved your booth for you. Come with me."
She led them to the booth next to the middle window, the one that had the best view of the street outside. Regina had always loved people watching from Granny's diner, imagining the lives of the people of Storybrooke.
Once they were seated, Granny handed them menus. "I don't know why. You all are just going to get the same things," she said.
"You never know," Emma replied, opening her menu. "One of us might surprise you."
Granny hummed. "I doubt it. But if anyone will, my money's on you."
Emma beamed as the older woman walked away. Regina shook her head, turning her focus onto her father. "What do you want, Daddy?"
"I don't know," he replied. "I'm not very hungry. The chemo has once again robbed me of any appetite."
"You have to eat something," she told him.
"You can't let the cancer win," Cora said, sickeningly sweet. "Of course it did finally get rid of that pudge I always complained about."
Regina's stomach dropped as she looked up to see her mother standing next to their table. She looked out of place in the predominantly working class eatery, wearing a mink stole and gaudy but no doubt expensive jewelry.
Henry gave her a disgusted look. "Glad to see you're still passive-aggressive, Cora."
"I could say the same about you," she snapped.
Emma glared at her. "What are you doing here?"
"Celebrating my daughter's birthday," she replied. "I figured Robin gave her Sundays off, just like Will, and that she would then want to celebrate with you tonight. I chanced that she would still have a fondness for this grease trap."
Granny approached them, frowning. "Cora, I thought I'd never see you again. Someone up there must hate me."
"Granny! Shouldn't you have retired and moved to Florida with all the other old people waiting to die?" Venom dripped from Cora's words though she kept the fake smile pasted on her face.
"Mother, enough." Regina slid out of the booth and took Cora by the arm, dragging her toward the counter.
"Regina, darling, stop being so rude. You're making a scene." Cora pulled her arm from Regina's grasp and fixed her stole.
Regina stared at her mother, incredulous. "You're the one making a scene. I don't want you here."
"Well, it's not like I could go to the mansion. Robin's forbidden me from going on the property when you're there." Cora scowled.
"He has? Really?" Regina felt a sense of gratitude and happiness over how he wanted to protect her, though a tinge of annoyance that he had done so behind her back.
Cora frowned. "Don't read too much into that. This isn't a fairy tale, Regina. You are not Cinderella and Robin is not your Prince Charming."
"I'm not the one living in a fairy tale," she shot back. "Robin isn't going to fly across the country, burst in, profess his undying love for Zelena, drop to his knee and propose. He doesn't like her. The sooner you both accept that and move on, the better."
"You are playing a game you can't win. Watch your back," Cora hissed.
Regina took a step back, confused yet concerned. "I'm your daughter and you are threatening me?"
"Of course not." Cora's demeanor changed and she shook her head. "I can't talk to you when you're like this. I have to go."
"That would be for the best."
Cora nodded, leaning close. "Stop telling Robin stories. You're confusing him and making him think things that, well, just aren't true.
"Happy birthday." She slapped an envelope down on the counter, adjusted her stole once more and left the diner. Regina picked up the envelope, turning it over in her hands.
Granny came up behind her, wrapping her arm around the birthday girl. "Good riddance to her. Let's celebrate the wonderful she made sure you turned out to be by leaving and removing any influence over you. Come on."
Though rattled, Regina let Granny guide her back to the booth and gave the older woman her order. Granny took their orders, walking away as Henry took his daughter's hands. "Don't let her get to you."
"She's just so…confusing," Regina said.
"More like aggravating," Emma muttered. She picked up the envelope. "Probably an impersonal card to boot."
Regina took the envelope back and opened it, frowning. "Not even a card. Just fifty dollars."
"What? You're kidding!"
Shaking her head, Regina showed Emma the contents. "Count 'em. Fifty dollars."
Henry chuckled. "Cora definitely hasn't changed. Still spending luxuriously on herself and being cheap with everyone else."
Granny brought them their food and they banished Cora from their conversations. By the time the cake was brought out, Regina felt merrier and she blew out her candles happily. However, she did notice she kept watching the door even though she knew Robin wouldn't just randomly walk in to celebrate.
But she could still hope.
Since Regina stayed at the apartment Sunday night, Marco picked her up outside of Granny's early Monday morning. Ruby had handed her a coffee and a muffin, saying: "One the house for your birthday. And the fact you're up so early rather than sleeping in."
Regina thanked her rather than replying that she couldn't remember the last time she slept in on her birthday. She took the white paper bag and brown coffee cup, heading outside as the black town car pulled up. It was nice and warm once she out in and Regina sighed. "Thank you, Marco."
"Of course," he replied, getting on the highway that would lead out of town. "You relax and we'll be at the mansion in no time."
She sat back, breaking off pieces of her muffin as she ate it. Marco drove the well-traveled path between her father's apartment and the mansion she was considered home more and more. A home her mother was not allowed anywhere near. Cora's reappearance the night before still rattled her, but she focused on the same thing she always told Roland—the mansion and its property was safe.
Marco opened the door, startling her. "Sorry, but we're here."
"No need to apologize. I zoned out." She climbed out of the car. "Do you want me to send Robin out?"
He shook his head. "When he called to ask me to pick you up, he said he wasn't going in today. So I'm heading home."
"Then have a good day," she said. He tipped his hat at her and got into the car to head out.
Regina pulled out her keys and unlocked the kitchen door, slipping into the dark room. She put down her bags and ran her hand along the wall to find the light switch. Her fingers hit it and she flipped on the lights.
Little arms wrapped around her waist and she glanced down to see Roland beaming up at her. "Happy birthday, Regina!"
"Thank you," she replied, confused. Glancing up, she saw the kitchen was decorated with gold streamers and a banner reading: Happy Birthday!
Robin and Will stood by the table, a large bouquet of roses sitting in a beautiful vase between them. Both smiled at her. "Surprise," Robin said.
"How did you find out?" she asked, still holding Roland close.
"A little bird told us," Will replied.
Regina knew who that little bird was without a shadow of a doubt. "Emma."
"I'm not going to name my sources." Robin stepped closer, leaning down to kiss her cheek. The warmth of his lips and the scratch of his scruff felt wonderful against her skin. She closed her eyes as he whispered: "Happy birthday."
Will clapped his hands, breaking their little spell. "What does the birthday girl want for breakfast?"
"I had a muffin," she said. "You lot can have whatever Roland wants."
Roland shook his head. "It's your birthday. You get to pick everything today."
"Everything?"
"Yes, everything," Robin confirmed, placing his hand on the small of her back. He guided her to the table and pulled out a chair for her.
She sat down with a sigh. "Fine. You all are stubborn, so I guess I'll have two breakfasts. And I guess I'm in the mood for waffles."
"Waffles it is," Will said, putting on his apron. "Any particular type?"
"Surprise me."
With everything settled, Roland raced from the kitchen. She looked at Robin, raising an eyebrow. "Where's he going?"
"I don't know," he admitted with a shrug. "He's very excited about your birthday."
Regina nodded, running her finger along one of the silky petals of a rose. "These are beautiful."
"Thank you. I wasn't sure what your favorite flower is, so I figured I couldn't go wrong with roses."
"Good bet. And they just so happen to be my favorite flowers," she replied with a smile.
The door swung open and Roland skidded to a stop next to her chair. He held a silver tiara in his hands which was decorated with several rhinestones as well as a giant red crystal. "This is for you to wear," he said, holding it out to her. "You're the queen today."
She smiled, putting the crown on her head. "How's this?"
"Perfect," father and son chorused.
Will set down her plate in front of her with a waffle drenched in syrup and topped with whipped cream and strawberries on it. She stared at it, wondering how she would eat it all. "This is…wow."
"I am a breakfast master," he replied, smiling. "No one can top me."
"I certainly can't." Regina took a bite and let out a moan. "Much better than a muffin. Thank you, Will."
Will served Robin and Roland before joining them with his own waffle. They sat together, eating, as Regina continued to admire her roses. With her crown and her little court, Regina certainly did feel like a queen.
After breakfast, Robin insisted she should take a nap. "Since you were up early today," he said. "You deserve a nice rest. Besides, Roland has his lessons with Mary Margaret."
"A nap does sound nice," she admitted.
He rubbed her arm. "Go ahead. I can wait for Mary Margaret."
She smiled, starting to head up the stairs when the door opened. A cold blast filled the kitchen, chilling Regina despite the fact she was wearing a white turtleneck under her warmest gray sweater. She turned around to find Mary Margaret pushing the door closed.
Mary Margaret pulled off her hat and smoothed down her short hair. "Sorry. I didn't mean to make everyone chilled."
"That's okay," Regina replied, heading back down to greet the woman.
Smiling, Mary Margaret pulled out a small box from her bag. "Happy birthday, Regina. I'm glad to see Robin and Roland are making sure you celebrate in style."
"Of course," Robin said, sounding slightly indignant.
Regina hugged Mary Margaret. "I'm surprised you remembered. It's been so long."
"Of course I remembered," she replied. "I have wanted to send you something in the past but…well…given everything…"
"I understand," Regina said, wanting to cut Mary Margaret off before she accidentally revealed too much in front of Robin. Opening the box, she found a gift card sitting inside. She hugged the younger woman. "Thank you so much."
Robin stepped forward. "Mary Margaret, I'll take you to Roland. Regina, I believe you were on your way up for a birthday nap?"
"Have a good rest," Mary Margaret replied, waving to Regina as she followed Robin out of the kitchen.
With a smile, Regina ran up the stairs and went to her bedroom for some extra sleep.
Regina ended up napping for almost two hours. She came down to the kitchen feeling clear-headed, smiling at Will when he looked up from his cookbook. "What are you looking for?" she asked.
"One of your other birthday surprises." He closed the book and set it aside. "Are you ready for lunch?"
"Lunch? I'm still full from that waffle you made!"
Robin's chuckle announced his arrival at the kitchen. He smiled as he approached her. "Why don't we go for a walk? Work up an appetite?"
"It's a bit cold for that," Regina said, shivering from memory.
"It's warmed up while you were sleeping." He leaned against the island. "Let's go out for a little bit. If you get too cold, I'll bring you right back."
She narrowed her eyes, leaning closer to him. "Are you trying to get me out of the house?"
"Yes."
"Why?"
They were so close, Regina thought they were going to kiss. Her heart sped up as she purposefully kept her eyes on his. She didn't want to betray her inner wishes by glancing down at his lips. Emma was certain he wanted to kiss her, Regina not so much.
He pulled back. "Fresh air. It'll do us both good."
"Fine," she replied, not sure if she was disappointed or relieved. "Let me go get my stuff."
She left her crown with Will as it would not fit under her hat. (Or over, though Robin tried). Robin had been right about the day warming up, though her nose chilled after a few minutes and she was certain her cheeks were already red.
He led her down a path that led deeper into the woods on his property. Snow covered the trees, lining bare branches and weighing down evergreen boughs. It seemed like a painting or a holiday greeting card. "So beautiful," she whispered, afraid to break the tranquility that surrounded them.
"I know," he replied, voice also soft. "It's why I kept buying land—to preserve its beauty rather than see it destroyed by developers."
She nodded. "I'm surprised you didn't give an estate this size a name."
He grew quiet and when she looked over, he was rubbing the back of his neck. She wondered if his cheeks were pink from cold or a blush. Robin sighed as he said: "I call it Nottingham, since I grew up there. It made me feel less homesick."
"Okay. Wait. Your name is Robin Locksley, you grew up in Nottingham, you now live on an estate called Nottingham, your company is named Sherwood, your best friend is Will Scarlet, your lawyer and friend is named John Littleton, you married a woman named Marian and you are one of Storybrooke's biggest philanthropists. All that's missing is a bow and arrow as well as Friar Tuck!"
"I was a champion archer through all my schooling, both here and back home in the UK. Adulthood got in the way, between my business, my marriage and fatherhood," he replied. "And the groundskeeper is named Tuck. You haven't met him yet?"
"You're kidding me." Regina stopped, staring at him. With his back to her, it was hard to tell if he was having a go or not.
He stopped, turning back to her. Robin looked serious and she thought she saw the phantom of past pain in his eyes. "I'm not. I know how my life looks and I've embraced it. So go ahead. I've heard every Robin Hood joke possible."
"Oh, Robin, no." She stepped closer, placing her gloved hand on his sleeve. "I'm not going to hurt you like that. You may have accepted it but it still clearly brings you pain."
Robin closed his eyes, nodding. "The jokes wore on my nerves and…and I almost gave up archery because of the taunts, despite the fact I liked it and was good at it."
"Children can be cruel," she replied. "And some never outgrow it. At least you were nicknamed after a hero. I used to work in business and finance. And I was good at it. One day, I found out some of my coworkers called me the Evil Queen because of my ambition. They believed I was cold-hearted and would steer clear of me."
It had hurt every time she had tried to branch out at Blanchard Financial and everyone else would shy away. The only ones not intimidated by her were those also in the finance department and the executives. So she had grown closer to the likes of Leopold Blanchard. In hindsight, she now wondered if he had dubbed her the Evil Queen in order to isolate her.
Warm leather pressed against her cold cheek and she snapped from Blanchard Financial's cafeteria back to the woods of Nottingham. Robin's face came into focus and he gave her a soft smile. "It's their loss that they were too afraid and jealous to get to know the amazing woman you really are."
"Thank you," she whispered.
His hand slid from her cheek and took hers as they continued their walk. "Sorry to make you relive such painful memories on your birthday."
"It's okay. It feels better to talk about them. And this is still a picnic compared to the conversation I had with Mother last night."
She stopped short as Robin stopped, their hands still clasped. "You spoke with her? She called you?"
"No. She actually remembered I celebrate at Granny's and showed up there." Regina hesitated before asking: "Did you really ban her from the property if I'm here?"
He nodded. "I told her to stay away from you. Apparently she didn't understand what I meant."
Regina frowned. "I can fight my own battles, Robin."
"I know. But I also know your mother. To her, a threat coming from me is different than one from you."
She knew he was right. Robin was someone whose favor Cora wanted to keep while Regina was nothing to her. And she had to admit it was a relief to know there was someone in her corner who could go toe-to-toe with her mother. "Thank you," she said.
Her gaze dropped to his lips as she rose on her tiptoes. She closed her eyes as his arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer. His hot breath ghosted her skin. This was it. Her heart beat faster. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach. Every nerve in her body tingled as his lips brushed hers.
"Robin? Regina? Roland's looking for you." Will's voice echoed through the trees.
The spell was broken. Robin pulled back and took her hand again. "I hope you've worked up an appetite because I'm sure Roland has."
She nodded, walking with him back to the house. Though disappointed she hadn't gotten a proper kiss from Robin, there was still a spring in her step. It had been one thing for Emma to say Robin was in love with her. But the way he looked at her, wanted to protect her and how he pulled in for the kiss…It was now real.
Robin felt the same for her as she did for him.
Best birthday ever.
By the time she was ready for bed, Regina was certain she wasn't going to need to eat for a week. Lunch had ended up being BLTs and tomato soup while dinner was a full Italian feast—salad, calamari, chicken parmigiana, spaghetti Bolognese and warm bread. Will had really outdone himself in her opinion. She also believed she had gained five pounds just by looking at the dining room table.
He had also given her a basket of wine and chocolates for her birthday as well. She had had to use all her willpower not to dig into it right away. And she had been relieved to see her gift from the Locksley boys was a spa day for her and Emma. No extra calories lurking there.
Unlike her cake, the birthday surprise Will had been looking up earlier. He carried out a three-layer red velvet cake with "Happy Birthday, Regina!" written in red icing with several candles positioned around the cake. The three sang the traditional song and when Roland started to sing "Are you one? Are you two?" Robin kindly covered his son's mouth. "We don't need to know that," he said.
She chuckled. "I'm afraid you would've been singing for a long time, Roland."
"Why?" He frowned. "You're not old. You're like…twenty."
Regina let out a peal of laughter, pulling the boy closer to her and pressing a big kiss to his cheek. "You, sir, are very good for my ego."
"Okay, okay. Let's let Regina cut her cake," Robin said, handing her the knife. "Birthday girl gets the first slice."
She also ended up getting the fifth slice and half of the seventh. When she slipped into her birthday bubble bath, Regina was surprised she didn't sink to the bottom of the tub. Still, it had been the best red velvet cake she had ever eaten. Will certainly had a lot to be proud of and she had told them that before kissing his cheek.
Now she sat on her bed, dressed in her warmest pajamas and wrapped in her robe. Despite the fact she turned thirty-six that day, her hair was in braided pigtails and she had her dark-rimmed glasses perched on her nose as she read the next chapter of her book. It was getting to the good part, where the amateur sleuth and the handsome detective who was reluctantly letting her help investigate his case were both trapped with their main suspect advancing on them, when knocking sent her jumping in her skin. She dropped her book and pressed her hand to her chest in an attempt to slow her heart.
Regina opened the door to find Robin on the other side, wearing a dark gray t-shirt and dark green pajama pants. While she wore her thickest socks, he was barefoot. He frowned as he took her in. "Did I scare you?"
"I was engrossed in a book," she replied. "Is something wrong?"
He shook his head, holding out a wrapped package. "I had my own birthday gift for you."
"Come on in." She stepped aside, letting him enter the bedroom.
Tilting his head, Robin smiled. "I haven't seen those glasses since your first night in the house, when you read Roland a story during the storm."
"Yeah, I only need those for reading. And even then, just serious reading. Most things I can get by without them."
She reached up to take off her glasses but he stopped her, a gentle hand on her wrist. "No. I think you look adorable in them."
"Thank you," she replied, feeling the blush coming to her cheeks. She sat down on the bed and after a few seconds, he did the same.
He handed her the package. "Happy birthday, Regina."
"You didn't have to get me anything. You all certainly did enough today," she said, placing it on her lap.
"You're worth it. Now open the present."
She laughed. "Someone's pushy. It's still my birthday."
"And at the rate you're going, you won't open it on your birthday," he teased.
With one last look, she tore the paper off the present. A beautiful book lay in her lap, her initials on the black cover in white lettering. She opened it to reveal that the pages were all blank. "Is this…?"
"It's whatever you want it to be," he said. "Diary, address book, the place where you explain exactly why killing me and Will was justifiable homicide."
She let out a laugh and set the book aside. "Thank you, Robin. It's sweet."
"You hate it."
"No, I don't," she replied, taking his hands. "It really is a nice gift. I'm sure I'll find a use for it soon."
He tucked one of the strands too short for her braids behind her ear, the tips of his fingers brushing against her cheek. She licked her lips, deciding to throw caution to the wind. It was her birthday and he had seemed receptive earlier…
Grabbing his t-shirt in both her hands, Regina pulled him in as she crashed her lips on his. It took a few moments before he began to respond, but once he did…oh, the things the man could do to her. Fire coursed through her veins before pooling low in her core as her stomach did flip-flops. Her head began to spin and she felt like she was going to float away if she let go of him.
Robin nibbled on her lower lip and she opened her mouth, letting his tongue in. She hummed, pleased as it swept over her mouth before meeting her tongue.
Her lungs began to burn and Robin pulled away, panting as hard as she was. Regina kept his shirt gripped tight in her hands and he wrapped his arms around her. "You are certainly quite the kisser," he said.
"So are you," she whispered.
Robin nuzzled her. "Have you caught your breath?"
"Yes."
"Good." He cupped the back of her head as his lips found hers again. She slipped her tongue past his lips this time, enjoying how he moaned. They exchanged long, passionate kisses as they fell over on her bed. Robin was pressed against her as their legs hung off the bed. She didn't care, just as long as he kept kissing her…
He broke the kiss with an "oof," rubbing his forehead as he sat up. Regina realized her glasses had slid off, dangling on the edge of her nose. She took them off and sat up as well. "So sorry about that," she replied.
"No worries," he replied, smiling. "It came at a good time. I don't want to rush you, Regina. I want to do this right."
"This?"
Robin nodded. "Us. I want to have a real relationship with you. Proper dates, getting to know each other, and all that. I'm not going to just use you for sex. I care for you."
"I care for you as well." She smiled, rubbing his cheek. "Thank you."
He raised an eyebrow. "Have I redeemed myself for the stupid journal present?"
"It wasn't stupid!" She shook her head as she let out a chuckle.
Robin leaned over and kissed her cheek. "Good night, Regina. I'll see you in the morning."
She nodded, watching as he left. He gave her a goofy smile before closing the door and she keeled over on her bed. Pressing the pillow to her face, she let out a squeal, feeling like a teenager with her first boyfriend again.
Regina rolled over and stared at her cell. Did she want to text Emma and tell her the good news? She knew her friend would be thrilled for her. But her hand paused as it hovered over the phone. She liked the idea of having a secret for now. There would be plenty of time to tell Emma.
Picking up the journal, she smiled and reached for a pen. Opening to the first page, she dated her first entry and wrote:
Today, I kissed my boss. And I plan to do it a lot more in the future…
It amazed him how everything could both change and yet stay the same. He and Regina continued to interact as they did before the kiss, though they found more reasons to "accidentally" touch each other throughout the day. They had their usual conversations, kept the flirting to a minimum around Will and Roland and it all just seemed normal.
Except at night. Instead of ambushing Regina on her way back from the shower in order to get her daily report, she now joined him in the den after Will went to his room for the night. They would lie on the couch together, her back pressed to his front, as they shared his whiskey and talked until they ended up kissing.
Robin wanted to take her out on a date, to have a proper relationship with her rather than just sneaking around the mansion (no matter how much fun that was actually proving to be). It was hard though between their schedules and Roland's continuing fears about the adults in his life being gone from the mansion for too long. His problem seemed solved by one important date:
Valentine's Day.
It was a Sunday this year and that solved most of his problems. There would be no meetings and no work. And Regina would already be out of the house. If he spent all day with Roland and just went out for a few hours that night, Roland would be placated. There were just a few more people the plan hinged on, though.
Emma and Henry were cleared early on. Keeping to his resolution to reconnect with the friends he had withdrawn from while grieving Marian, Robin had invited Killian over for a good old-fashioned one-on-one basketball game. Killian had told him that he had a busy Valentine's night filled with dinner cruises on the lake. "Thankfully Emma was okay with a Valentine's Day brunch instead of dinner," he said.
"So Emma will be home that night?" Robin asked.
Killian looked him up and down before smirking. "Yes, she will be. You can have your nanny for…whatever is you're planning."
"Get your mind out of the gutter," Robin scolded him. However, he had picked up a pack of condoms on a whim a few days after kissing Regina. While he didn't plan on using them soon, he still wanted to be prepared.
Assured that Regina would have the night free, Robin just had to make sure Will could come back in time to watch Roland. His plans hit a snag there, though, when his friend seemed nervous one night as they drank in the den. Robin had sighed and set his whiskey aside. "What is it, mate? You look like you're ready to crawl out of your skin."
"I just…" Will paused, taking a deep breath. "Is it okay if I stay out late on Valentine's Day? Not be home by nine?"
Robin gaped at his friend. "I'm not your mother and you're not a teenager. I don't care what time you come home."
"Oh, good. Because I…Well, I have a date."
"You do? That's great," Robin said, though inside he was panicking. All his plans were starting to go up in flames. Still, he kept his voice even as he asked: "May I ask with who?"
"No one you know," Will replied, taking a sip of his beer.
Robin shrugged. "Fine, be elusive. Have fun."
He couldn't ask Will to cancel his plans. This was his first date in four years. So Robin would just have to figure out new plans for Valentine's Day.
It had taken some time, but he did it. But just as he had worked out how to celebrate the holiday of love with Regina, his date was stolen from him.
By his own son.
A few days before Valentine's, Robin came home from work just in time to see Roland burst into the kitchen and race over to Regina, who was sitting at the table. He held out a red heart covered with glitter and smiled wide. "Will you be my Valentine, Regina?"
"Of course I will," she said, kissing his cheek as she took the heart. "Thank you so much."
Happy, Roland skipped out of the kitchen while his father stared at him incredulous. Regina walked over to the island, studying him. "Is something wrong?"
"I just got cockblocked by my own son," he said, keeping his voice down in case Roland was still within ear shot. "The little traitor."
She raised her eyebrow. "That's a bit extreme don't you think?"
"Yeah, I guess," he sighed. "I was planning a nice Valentine's date for us, though."
"Who says we can't still have one?"
It was his turn to raise his eyebrow. "You just agreed to be my son's Valentine. It would seem like a dick move to move in on his Valentine."
"I can have more than one Valentine. I mean, it didn't really work out for me in the seventh grade, but I think it can this time."
He leaned closer. "I'm not sure what I'm more intrigued about—the two boys who held your interest when you were thirteen or how we can still have our Valentine's date."
"Those boys are long gone, no need to worry." She waved her hand as if waving them away. "As for Valentine's day, my first date is six years old. He's going to have a sugar high and crash by nine-thirty, the latest. And then we'll have the rest of the night."
"You are clearly the brains of this relationship." He gave her a quick kiss. "I promise you a night to remember."
Regina returned to the mansion on Sunday night dressed for her Valentine's double date. She had chosen a red dress she had bought and never worn, with an A-line skirt that flared out by her knees. It had cap sleeves but she knew she was staying in for the night and would be warm. Black flats completed the ensemble and she finally wore the diamond earrings Robin and Roland had given her for Christmas, paired with her diamond necklace.
"You look beautiful," Robin said, taking off her coat. "Almost makes me want to send Roland to bed now."
She blushed, still not used to his open affection and appreciation yet. "Thank you. But I agreed to be Roland's Valentine first and I'm going to honor that. You're just going to have to wait."
He sighed, ushering her into the living room. Roland jumped up from the couch and ran to give her hug. "Happy Valentine's Day, Regina."
"Happy Valentine's Day to you." She brushed back his curls to see his smiling face. "What do you have planned for us?"
"We're going to start with dinner and then some games. Come on." Roland took her hand and dragged her into the dining room, Robin following close behind them.
She sat with father and son at the table, which had sushi laid out across it. "I didn't know you like sushi, Roland," she said.
"He actually does love it," Robin replied. "It's been forever since we've had it though. I'm not a big fan."
"Mama and I used to eat it when Papa had to work late and Will didn't feel like cooking," Roland explained.
"So what are you eating?" she asked Robin as she filled her plate.
He held his up to reveal a rather pathetic looking sandwich. "Dinner is served for me as well."
"You need to eat more than that."
"I'll be fine. I'm saving room for dessert," he replied with a wink.
Regina felt herself grow flushed at the implication. She glanced down at her plate with a frown. He had said he would take it at whatever pace she had wanted and she didn't think she was ready for that yet.
He got up, pretending to be grabbing a napkin as he leaned close to whisper: "Don't worry, lovely. I didn't mean it like that. I'm not going to rush you."
Roland watched them as his father returned back to his seat, the boy confused. So she decided to distract him. "You look very handsome tonight, Roland."
"Thank you," he replied, beaming. "I wanted to be just like Papa. He's always handsome."
"Yes, he is." She had to admit that father and son were dressed almost identically—button down shirt, sweater and black slacks. Roland wore a white shirt and red sweater while his father wore a red shirt and gray sweater, though.
They finished their meal and Robin cleaned it up as Roland took Regina to his playroom. He set up a few games for them to play, Robin joining them when he was done in the dining room.
After the second round of Candyland, Roland sat on her lap and leaned against her. Regina rubbed his back. "I think someone's getting sleepy," she said.
"Not sleepy," he murmured though she saw his eyes starting to droop.
She sent a look to Robin, who nodded. He picked up his son. "Alright, Roland, this Valentine's date is over. It's time for bed."
"Can I say goodnight to Regina?" Roland asked. Robin let him lean forward to kiss her cheek. "Night, Regina."
"Good night, Roland. And thank you for a wonderful Valentine's Day," she said.
Robin stood and smiled at her. "Why don't you go to the den, okay?"
She nodded, putting the game away. Once the playroom was cleaned, she flicked off the lights and headed toward the den. A fire roared in the fireplace and she saw Robin had placed a bottle of champagne on ice. He had also laid out a blanket on the floor and a white box sat on it.
"Happy Valentine's Day," he said from behind her, holding out a bouquet of roses.
"Robin," she sighed. Turning around, she kissed him properly for the first time all night.
He held her close, the roses pressed against her back, as she wrapped her arms around his neck. She grew hot and she knew it wasn't from the fire behind them. This came from deep within her, a feeling only he could awaken.
When they broke the kiss, he pulled out a little remote and held it up. He pressed a button and music began to play. "You still owe me eight dances from the masquerade," he said, tossing the remote down.
"And you're going to collect all eight tonight?"
He shook his head. "Just one. I've decided to space them out."
"Oh, you have?" She smiled as he wrapped his arm around her waist and took her hand in his.
Adele crooned "To Make You Feel My Love" as he held her close, swaying her in time to the music. She rested her head on his shoulder, closing her eyes as she enjoyed being so close to him. The scruff of his beard brushed against her forehead as she felt his lips against her hair. Regina sighed with happiness, never wanting the moment between them to end.
The music did end, though, and they parted. He guided her to the blanket and she sat close to him, resting her head on his shoulder again as they leaned against the couch. "You know, for someone who didn't want to move in on his son's Valentine, you certainly were a large part of our date."
"I was chaperoning," he replied. "Making sure you both were on your best behavior."
"Uh huh. Sure. I am surprised though that he didn't insist on dessert."
He chuckled. "He may have eaten quite a bit of chocolate this afternoon with the understanding that would mean no dessert tonight."
She smiled. "So are we going to have dessert at all?"
"Yes, we are." He reached over and opened the box, revealing a dozen chocolate covered strawberries.
"Robin…" She sat up, tucking her hair behind her ear.
He kissed her cheek. "I promised you an evening to remember. Now, open up."
She watched as he picked up one of the strawberries and held it out for her. Regina took a bite, enjoying the double sweetness of the chocolate and the strawberry mixed together. Closing her eyes, she let out a pleased groan. "These are delicious. Where did you get them?"
"Switzerland. I flew there and back this morning."
"Very funny." She opened her eyes. "Where did you really get them?"
He chuckled, letting her finish the strawberry. "They're from a confectionary by my office. Best chocolate in all of Maine."
She hummed, picking up a strawberry. "Your turn."
Robin took a bite, his eyes never leaving her face. There was a hunger in them that both excited and terrified her. But she had his reassurances he wouldn't do anything she wasn't ready for and she trusted him.
After a few more strawberries, Robin stood. "Why don't I pop that champagne?"
"Sounds wonderful," she replied, resting her head on the couch cushions. She watched as he opened the bottle, pouring them both glasses.
He handed her one before sitting down next to her. "To you, Regina Mills. An amazing woman who walked into my life at just the right time."
"And to you, Robin Locksley. For being Prince Charming come to life," she replied, clinking her glass with his.
They drank most of their champagne before Regina set her glass aside. She picked up another strawberry and held it out to him. He took a bite and she smiled. "This has been the perfect Valentine's date."
"I had planned to take you out to a real restaurant. Maybe even a carriage ride around the park," he admitted, taking another bite.
She had to admit that sounded romantic. "Maybe another time. You did say you wanted to date me properly."
"I meant it," he replied, taking her hands in his. "It'll take some figuring out and we're probably going to have to finally tell Will, but I promise you regular, real dates."
Regina kissed him again, moving even closer to him. As she slid onto his lap, he tangled his hand in her hair and his tongue was granted entranced to her mouth again. She rested her hands on his chest, feeling his heart pick up speed as their kisses grew more intense.
He trailed kisses along her jaw and neck as he laid her down on the blanket. Regina bent one leg at the knee, moaning as he sucked on her pressure point. His shirt began to ride up in the back and her hands sought the bare skin there, delighting in how close to his ass they were. She was tempted to slide them under his pants as he brought his own knee closer to her, resting against an area demanding attention she hadn't had in far longer than she admitted.
Rubbing against his knee, the lace panties she had worn on a whim as well as her stockings felt wonderful against her clit. She gasped at the combined sensations running through her body, the pleasure from down below and up above as Robin continued his attentions on her neck. As she felt him bite down, she knew she would have a mark to hide from Roland in the morning.
She tugged on his hair, bringing his mouth back to hers. It ended up being a clash of teeth before they returned to more passionate kisses. His hand trailed down her body, caressing the part of her thigh exposed as her skirt slid closer to her body. The heat filling her grew more intense as she felt her nerves tingle.
When he moved his knee, she whimpered against his lips. He pulled away and she opened her eyes to find him watching her. "May I touch you?" he whispered.
Regina nodded, watching as his hand disappeared under her red skirt. She felt his fingers brush against her stomach as it pulled down her stockings and panties. They slipped between her folds, caressing her clit. He was gentle but she was so keyed up, it sent a wild current of pleasure through her. She gasped, clutching his arms tighter.
He rubbed circles against her clit, picking up speed as she moaned. She began to quiver as he kissed her neck again. Regina knew she was close as her breaths grew more shallow. "Robin," she gasped.
"It's okay," he whispered, nipping at her earlobe. He put a little more pressure on her clit and she came undone with a cry of his name.
Robin groaned into her shoulder, his body shaking as well. She kissed the side of his head as she came down from her orgasm. "That was incredible," she whispered.
"Indeed," he replied, lifting his head to kiss her. He nuzzled her. "Now what, lovely?"
The pet name gave her a thrill and want pulled at her again. But she kissed him and said: "I think it's time I turn in."
He nodded, sitting up so she could fix herself. She pulled off her stockings and gathered her shoes in her hand. As she reached for her roses, she noticed Robin had covered his lap with one of the throw pillows. "Is something wrong?"
"No," he said, voice a bit higher. "Everything's fine."
Regina wasn't fooled, though. "You can tell me, Robin. It's okay."
He grimaced as he removed the pillow, revealing a dark spot on his pants. She bit her lip. "Oh."
"I feel like a bloody teenager," he muttered.
She leaned over and kissed his cheek. "It's okay. I won't tell anyone. No matter how flattered I am."
"Flattered?"
Regina nodded. After all, she had been able to make him come without ever once touching him. That had to be a record, right?
She tucked her hair behind her ear again. "Do you need any help cleaning up?"
"No, I've got it," he assured her. "Besides, what type of gentleman would I be if I had my date cleaning up? You go put those roses in water and I'll see you in the morning."
"Good night, Robin." She gave him one more kiss before standing.
He watched her leave and she paused outside the door to catch her breath. Robin had certainly given her a night to remember as well as something to look forward to in the nights to come. Because if that was just them touching each other, she could only imagine how amazing actually having sex with the man was going to be.
Regina raised the roses to her nose, giggling into their petals as she took in their scent. As she pushed herself off the wall, she heard him whisper inside: "I love you, Regina."
Her heart skipped a beat and she clutched the roses closer as she whispered back: "I love you, too."
A/N: I know everyone has been eagerly awaiting this! And I've been waiting to share this with you too!
In my original plan, Robin and Regina's first kiss was going to be on Valentine's Day but those two had other plans. There had also been a plan for them to have sex for the first time but in the end, I decided it would make no sense for someone as skittish as Regina had been going into this relationship would go that far so fast. So you have their first time to anticipate!
(As well as the other seven dances Regina owes Robin).
I hope everyone is having a great Valentine's Day and got plenty of sweets.
On a personal note, I've been posting some of my original work to Wattpad and now FictionPress. It's a story called Long Live the Queen, and it's a take on the Snow White fairy tale. On Wattpad, my name is GraceMackenzieNess while I have the same name on FictionPress (MackenzieW) that I do here. I hope you check it out and enjoy it.
-Mac