April 27th 2013
David had called Emma for breakfast in the morning. Regina was scheduled for physical therapy, and he wanted to use this time to get to know his daughter better. David had been true to his words. He had moved out of the loft and into Granny's bed and breakfast the same day he had told Regina he was leaving Snow. As for Snow, she had ignored the problem, pretending that David would come back to her eventually. But Emma had witnessed the way he looked at Regina, the way he had taken care of her in the bathroom, and the utter despair the man had been in at the hospital.
David and Emma had tried to keep the conversation light over the pancakes and coffee. Although she was still struggling with her own feelings toward her parents' split, she enjoyed spending time with him. Emma was surprised at how different Prince Charming was from David Nolan. They talked about her life before coming to Storybrooke, how she came to be a bounty hunter, her decision to give Henry up for adoption. She felt a connection to him that she couldn't get with Snow. He was less judgmental; he wasn't trying to hold her to a higher moral standard.
But Emma had only one burning question on her lips and she needed to know the answer. "Did you leave Mary Margaret for Regina?"
David sighed. He knew the subject would come up sooner or later. "The short answer is yes. But it's a lot more complicated." He was astounded by the smile of his daughter's face. "What's so amusing?"
Emma laughed. "You admitting that life is not black and white."
David laughed with her. "Well, trust me. In this case it's coming with a lot of grey."
"So?"
David looked at her uncertainly. "So?"
Emma chuckled. "Are you going to tell me? Last time I saw the two of you together, you were ready to let her die at the hands of an angry mob or a wraith… if these things actually had hands."
David closed his eyes and took a steadying breath. "I got to know her better and I fell in love with her. I loved both of them. Snow and Regina."
Emma frowned. "What changed?"
"Snow. Or rather I discovered some truths about Snow that I wasn't ready to hear."
"From Regina?"
David shook his head. "From Snow herself."
Emma didn't push her father further for an explanation. The man was still clearly conflicted over the situation and she didn't want to add to this burden. Silence settled between them. David didn't know how to be a father. He never had any experience and he didn't know how to act toward the woman who was actually older than he was. But the last months of parenting Henry had taught him a few things. And the first one was to be honest with each other. He cleared his throat before speaking again. "Are you… are you ok with it?"
Emma took a deep breath. She had tried to avoid her own feelings on the subject. But David was now asking her directly. And she found his concern comforting. "I don't know." Emma was playing with her hands. "I know you as David Nolan. And Mary Margaret was my roommate … and my friend. I'm still trying to get around the idea that you are my parents… and that you're not the same people that I got to know over the past year." She swallowed hard. "My feelings toward Regina…. well, the woman has tried to throw me out of town since the day I arrived in Storybrooke. She has schemed and manipulated to keep me away from my son…" She snorted. "And she has tried to poison me with an apple turnover that almost cost Henry his life…" David looked away. He knew Regina had a lot to atone for but it was hard to hear it from his daughter's mouth. "But … but I know she gave Henry the life he deserved… the life I would have been unable to provide for him… and for that I'm grateful…. When he came to me a year ago, he was miserable. And I regretted the decision… but then I saw him after the curse broke. I saw how much he cared for Regina… he didn't want her hurt… and I see him now… I see how he speaks of her… how he speaks of the happy times they had together. He keeps telling me she is trying… that she wants to be better for him. So I may not like the woman now… but for Henry, I'm willing to give her a chance."
David gave his daughter a soft smile. "Thank you."
Emma hesitated before taking the next step. "And… and how are you? You lost your child too."
David snorted. "I don't know. I didn't know Regina was pregnant…. it's.. it's a lot to process. And then there is Regina herself."
Emma took David's hand. "Not the happy ending you imagined?"
David squeezed his daughter's hand. "I don't think Regina knows or remembers how to be happy. She is scared. Scared that this is all a joke and that I will run back to Snow. She is scared that I will leave her once our relationship becomes public knowledge and the town turns against me. But more importantly, she is scared about Henry's reaction. They haven't spent any time alone together. And she is afraid he will turn against her as soon as they do."
"Henry?"
David sighed. "Yeah. He sees the world through his book. And in his book, Snow White and Prince Charming are supposed to end up together. I don't think it's written anywhere that the Evil Queen gets her happy ending."
Emma laughed. "Not in the Disney version I remember anyway. But… but I think Henry stopped seeing the world in black and white too. He loves his mother… and he is happy that she's finally found someone."
"He told you that?"
"Not in so many words… especially around Mary Margaret. But he told me of all the things you did together. And all the things you promised him you'll do."
David smiled. However, his smile quickly faded. "But he hasn't expressed his desire to go home. At least not to Regina. And I know it's hurting her."
Emma smiled. "Then maybe it's time to force an opportunity to present itself."
EC
April 29th 2013
Sarah affectionately watched Regina and Henry. Emma had dropped him off earlier today while she was getting the mayor's mansion ready. Henry was reading his adoptive mother some of his comic books and Regina feigned her interest in the adventures of Iron Man. All that mattered was to spend time with her son. She would be going home tonight to her family; David was currently finishing up the paperwork and getting the final care instructions from Dr. Whale.
Her physical recovery had been remarkable. Within two days Regina had been able to stand and take baby steps with help. Over the weekend, she had managed to walk to the end of the corridor and back by herself. She had also gained a little bit of weight. She had finally admitted she hadn't eaten much because of the morning sickness. Dr. Whale had instructed her to gain at least five pounds once she returned home. Her ultrasound had also shown no additional damages, and an intact right tube. It would be very hard for her to conceive but not impossible if she so desired.
However, Archie was more concerned about her mental state. They had continued their sessions at the hospital but Regina had refused to talk about her miscarriage or the new developments in her life. Although Archie was thrilled that Regina and David finally admitted their feelings for and to each other, he was concerned about the timing. Regina didn't believe that a happy ending was possible and the joy that should come with a new relationship had been a source of additional stress. Archie was also concerned about whether Regina was capable of an intimate physical relationship. In her last session in his office, she had talked to him about her marriage to Leopold. And Archie doubted that she would allow for the physical contacts necessary for this kind of intimacy. On the other hand, she had been pregnant with David's child. And then, there had also been Graham. Archie needed to bring the subject not only with Regina but also with David and he had hoped he would have had more time before talking about the past that frightened Regina the most.
Sarah smiled as Henry admonished his mother for not following the story. She could tell that Regina was already tiring, fighting to spend some time with Henry. "I think your mom is getting a little bit tired, Henry."
Regina shook her head. "I'm ok. Just eager to go home."
Sarah smiled. "And you still need to take it easy once you get home." Regina nodded. "Let them take care of you."
Henry smiled. "Yeah, David said we'll have to keep reminding you to rest."
Regina chuckled. She had to admit it felt wonderful to have someone who cared. The thought of David warmed her heart. She couldn't wait for him to take her home. On cue, David knocked on the door, entering her hospital room followed by Dr. Whale. David walked to Regina and kissed her softly. She tensed but soon relaxed when the end of her world didn't come. Henry hadn't reacted and to be honest, she enjoyed the feeling of David's lips on her own. Sarah and Dr. Whale smiled at each other knowingly.
The doctor walked to the foot of the bed and looked at his patient. When she was brought in a week ago, he didn't think he would be sending her home. But she had proven him wrong. And she had also recovered much faster than he had expected. He had kept her as long as she had been willing. They still didn't know what the curse had done to her body and he had wanted to take all the necessary precautions. He repeated the instructions he had just given David. "Plenty of rest. Fifteen minutes of walking spread throughout the day. If you have any pain, you need to come back here immediately."
Regina nodded and smiled. "Thank you."
"You're welcome. Let's get you home."
Sarah and David helped Regina into the wheelchair and headed toward the parking lot. Henry opened the passenger door of the truck and slid in, waiting to help his mother. David carried Regina into the cabin and helped her settle in the most comfortable position she could find. Her surgical wound was still painful to the touch or when moving into a seating position. Satisfied that Regina would make the trip back home safely, Sarah lightly squeezed her arm and whispered so low that only Regina could hear her. "You're going to be fine. Let them take care of you."
Regina hugged the nurse, tears springing in her eyes. Sarah had been there for every night she had spent in her husband's bed and for every miscarriage. She had been a rock at a time where Regina needed someone the most. And she had been here for her again in Storybrooke. But unlike after the nights spent inside the cold castle in the Enchanted Forest, Regina could see a future now. And for once, she let go of Sarah not because she was forced to but because she wanted to. Sarah let go of the Queen and closed the door. She waved the family goodbye as David drove out of the hospital lot.
Henry took his mother's hand. "Emma is getting the house and dinner ready."
Regina smiled at her son. Emma had visited her several times at the hospital and they had tried to reach a more civil relationship for the sake of their son and David. They had agreed to co-parent Henry as she had done with David over the past two months. Their relationship was still uneasy but Regina could see a future in which she didn't throw a fireball at the blonde. According to David, it was progress. "Are you sure you don't want me to cook?"
Both David and Henry replied at the same time. "NO!" David continued. "You're going home, having dinner with us, and then straight to bed." He waved his index finger when she tried to argue. "No argument."
Regina smiled. She could get used to having people caring for her. "I guess I can't win against the two of you."
David parked the car in the driveway and killed the engine. "No you can't." He helped Regina out of the truck. She hissed when she got to her feet. He whispered to her as to not alarm Henry. "You're ok?"
She nodded. "Just a little sore and tired."
David carried more of her weight and rubbed her uninjured side. "Let's get you inside and laying down." Regina wasn't about to argue. The ride had been uncomfortable. She still couldn't sit properly and the car movements had sent waves of pain throughout her body. Regina was grateful when they slowly made their way toward the house. Henry had run in front to let Emma know they were back, and the slow pace David had set was helping her with the pain. With Henry in the house, David now had a chance to convince Regina to let him carry her. "How about I carry you to the porch? You can walk inside. Henry won't know."
Regina's eyes were filling with tears. David could read her like a book and instead of using it against her like her mother or Leopold had done, he wanted to make her happy. "Thank you."
David lifted her into his arm and walked toward the front door. As promised, he helped her stand on the porch so she could walk inside on her own. They were met by Henry who was running back and forth between the kitchen and the dining room, setting the table. "E'ma said she should have everything ready in ten minutes."
As Henry was running one more time toward the kitchen, David stopped him. "How about we eat in the living room in front of the TV?" He knew Regina needed to lay down. She wouldn't get through an entire dinner sitting at the table but she would also never admit to it in front of her son.
Henry's eyes lit up. "Really?" Regina nodded. "Cool!" Henry ran to the kitchen to get everything ready and yell the good news to his biological mother.
Regina leaned into David more heavily. "Thank you."
In lieu of a response, he carried her to the chaise longue in the living room and helped her settle down on the pillows. "How is that? Comfortable enough?"
Regina nodded, tears in her eyes. No one had cared for her like this before. "Yes."
David gave her a soft smile. "Let me get your bag upstairs. I'll be right back." He kissed her forehead before heading to the car.
When he came back to the living room, Henry was laying next to his mother. He was talking to her about school and his riding lessons. David smiled fondly at the sight before heading to the kitchen to help his daughter. "Thank you for making dinner."
"You're welcome. Pasta is my specialty."
David laughed. "Sounds good to me."
Emma dropped the spatula into the dishwasher before turning around to face her father. The man seemed more relaxed, probably happy to get Regina home. She pointed to the trays on the island. "Want to get this one to Henry and Regina? And pick a movie. Don't let Henry choose. I don't think I can watch one more Harry Potter movie."
David chuckled. Henry had made him watch each one at least twice. "I'll find something."
"Try Netflix." Emma laughed at the look on David's face. She had forgotten that the town had been stuck in the 80s and David had no clue about the streaming service. But she suspected Regina may have a subscription for Henry.
"I'll get the food to Henry and Regina." David smiled at his daughter, grabbed the plates and headed toward the living room. He found Regina and Henry in the same position he had left them.
After helping Regina with her plate and making sure Henry wasn't putting any weight on her tender abdomen, David headed for the DVD collection. He had no idea what Netflix was but surely he could find something in the extensive library he knew Regina kept on hand for Henry. He settled for a DVD with a worn jacket, surely to be a favorite. The title surprised him: 'Ratatouille'. Why would anyone make a movie about food… and mice? He frowned but showed it to Regina and Henry. The look of approval on both their faces made it the movie of the night.
Emma walked into the living room as David was placing the disc into the player. "What's the verdict?"
Henry smiled. "Ratatouille."
Emma returned his smile. "I love that movie!"
David stood and walked toward his daughter to grab his plate. "Then I guess I'm the only one who hasn't seen it."
Henry snorted. "We really need to catch you up. I can't believe you still haven't seen Star Wars."
Emma looked at her father incredulously. "You haven't seen Star Wars? How is that even possible?"
David pretended to think about an answer. "May have to do with being in a coma for some time."
Regina listened to the light banter silently. She had never imagined she would get to experience the joys of having a family. But here they were, in her living room, with dinner plates and a movie. She was shaken out of her thoughts by Emma. "Regina, how do you like the pasta?"
Regina hadn't touched most of her plate. She still wasn't hungry. Dr Whale had assured all of them that her appetite would come back once she was fully recovered but to try to force her to eat at least three times a day. She hadn't brought up the fact that she seldom ate three meals a day, a remnant of her time in Leopold's court. He had insisted she kept her figure and besides, she was hardly hungry in the mornings following a night in his chambers. Regina forced a smile. "It's good. Just not really hungry. Thank you for making dinner, Miss Swan."
Emma smiled. "How about you try to call me Emma?"
Regina nodded. "Thank you Emma."
David watched the two women he cared the most about interact with each other. They were both making an effort and he silently reminded himself to thank them both. "How about we watch that movie?"
Emma took the mostly empty plates back to the kitchen while David helped Regina settled more comfortably on the chair. He kissed her temple. "How is that?"
"I'm ok. Just a little cold."
David grabbed the throw blanket and tucked it around her and Henry. The kid had settled back next to his mother, hugging her tightly. David ruffled his hair. "Be careful not to move your arms lower Henry."
Henry simply nodded at his grandfather. David knew Regina wouldn't complain about Henry hurting her. Satisfied that Regina was comfortable, he took his spot on the couch just as Emma walked back from the kitchen. Father and daughter placed the other blanket on top of them and let the movie start.
Henry and Regina had fallen asleep ten minutes into the movie. Emma affectionately watched her son sleeping comfortably on top of his adoptive mother, fitting perfectly against her. She wondered then how many times they had done that. "He loves her."
David looked at his daughter, the tears in her eyes threatening to fall. He moved closer and hugged her. For the first time, she let herself be held. "He does. And he loves you."
"But I've missed so much of his childhood."
"You're in his life now. It's never too late to get to know your child."
Emma knew he wasn't only talking about Henry. She was still uneasy about the subject of her own upbringing so she changed the subject. "Do you think she is comfortable?"
"Physically? Probably not. But I'm not moving her just yet. Let's wait for the end of the movie."
Emma and David watched the movie in silence, Emma still in her father's embrace. She never had a family. And tonight was as close as she had ever gotten to it. She didn't want the night to end. However, their evening was cut short when Regina started whimpering in her sleep. It was time to get her in a bed with some pain medication. Emma moved to wake Henry up while David stopped the TV.
Henry opened his eyes begrudgingly. "Just a little bit longer."
Emma chuckled. "Come on. We need to get your mom settled for the night."
David smiled at his grandson and kneeled next to Regina. He caressed her cheek, giving her time to fully wake. "Time for bed."
Regina didn't protest. Henry looked in-between his two mothers, gathering his courage to ask the question he had been struggling with for several weeks. He turned to Emma. "Can...can I stay here tonight?"
Regina's heart skipped a beat, tears already forming in her eyes. She looked at David apprehensively, unsure whether she had heard Henry correctly. Emma looked at Regina while answering their son. "You need to ask your mom."
Regina didn't make Henry repeat his question. "Of course you can stay! Your bedroom.. your bedroom is as you left it."
Henry smiled before hugging Emma and then his adoptive mother. He whispered in her ear. "Thanks mom."
Regina buried her face in her son's neck, her heart hammering in her chest. She couldn't believe he wanted to stay with her. Emma shifted from one foot to the other. She was afraid to move and break the moment but she also felt uncomfortable, intruding on a private family moment. David saved her from having to make a decision by taking her into a hug. "Thank you for coming and helping."
Emma returned the hug, letting herself relax in her father's embrace. "You're welcome. I can come and pick Henry up in the morning for school. So you don't have to leave Regina."
"Thank you." Emma broke from the embrace. She hugged Henry one last time before leaving the mansion. David ruffled Henry's hair affectionately. "Time for bed."
Henry nodded and started for the stairs, a spring in his step. He was happy to be home with his mom. He had missed this. The evening spent curled up watching TV and his bedtime routine: teeth, face, bed, and a kiss from his mom.
David gently lifted Regina into his arms. She whimpered at the change in position. "I'll get you some pain medication."
Regina shook her head. "I'm ok. I want to tuck Henry in."
David knew there was no point to argue. She would not take the medication while Henry was awake and she wouldn't let him go to bed without making sure he was tucked in. Arguing would only take more time. "And then you take the medication. No argument."
She nodded against his chest. David carried her upstairs into the master bedroom. Regina tensed in his arms as soon as they entered the bathroom where she had almost died. She was surprised at how pristine it looked. David offered an explanation immediately. "Emma and I cleaned the house over the weekend."
Regina smiled. Henry had kept her company most of the weekend. They had time to talk. He had told her that he was proud of her for keeping her word. And to her surprise, he wasn't angry about the situation with David. David helped her sit on the edge of the bathtub and handed her her toothbrush. He bent down and kissed her cheek. "I'll get you some pajamas."
"Thank you."
David came back a few minutes later with silk pajamas, which he placed next to her on the tub. He filled a glass of water and handed it to her. The gesture was so familiar, as if they had perfected this routine over years of living with each other. It also felt right. He knew he belonged there. There was no doubt in his mind about whether he had made the right choice. He took the glass and toothbrush back from her. "I'll get you the medication and the dressings while you change. I left them downstairs."
Regina smiled and expressed her gratitude one more time. She was grateful for his care and comfort. David kissed her softly before heading toward the foyer. He was trying to remember where he had left the paper bag from the hospital.
When David walked back upstairs he found Regina in her pajamas, making her way toward Henry's bedroom slowly holding the wall for support. He rushed to her side and helped her the rest of the way. He admonished her softly. "You should have waited for me."
"Dr. Whale said I should be walking."
"I think his exact words included the phrase 'as long as somebody is with you'."
She smirked. "I'm fine."
He imitated her expression. "Let's keep it that way."
Regina walked slowly toward Henry's bed and sat on the edge, ruffling his hair. "Sweet dreams, my little prince." She leaned in to give him a kiss on the cheek.
Henry wrapped his arms around her neck and held her tightly. "I love you mom."
Regina gasped. "I love you too, Henry."
David could see the pain mixed with love in her eyes. He needed to get her to bed. But he also didn't want to interrupt the moment he had been waiting for for the past month. Finally, Henry released his mother. David kissed his grandson's forehead affectionately before helping Regina back to the bedroom. He helped her lay down and moved the medicine bag to the nightstand. He moved his hands over to her hips, silently asking for her permission to lift her shirt. Regina nodded. She watched him carefully replace her dressing and give her the pain killers. She swallowed both tablets reluctantly. David kissed her softly.
As he was about to stand, she grabbed his arm. She stayed silent for a long time. Her lower lip was quivering from indecision. David was watching her with concern. He hoped she wasn't in pain. It was always hard to tell with Regina. Finally, she licked her lips before speaking softly. "Please stay… here… with me."
David kissed her gently. "Of course I will." He removed his jeans and slipped in the bed besides her. She snuggled close to his chest and slept peacefully for the first time in months.
ECECEC
March 7th 2013
David was in foul mood. He had unsuccessfully tried to find a way to bring his family home. He missed Snow. He missed her counsel. But once more, they would have to find each other. It seemed that their entire relationship was based on chasing after each other and he was growing tired of it. The few leads he had went nowhere. Blue didn't have any ideas on how to open a portal back to the Enchanted Forest and Rumple had just played mind games with him. His mood didn't improve after receiving a phone call from the hospital. He left the station without taking his cell phone and drove without any regards for speed limits. He got angrier as soon as he saw Regina watching Dr. Whale on his bed. "What's going on? I just got a call that Dr. Whale was attacked."
Regina slowly turned toward the self-proclaimed sheriff, her hands on her hips. "You'll have to ask his doctors."
He was in no mood to play games with her. His tone was as threatening as he could managed. "No. I'm asking you." He punctuated each of his words with his index finger.
Regina relented. "I came here to speak with him and discovered he was hurt." He looked at her, clearly not believing she had nothing to do with it after what happened between the two of them just a week prior. She shook her head, trying to look offended by his lack of faith in her. But deep down, she wasn't surprised. Although he spoke the hero talk, she knew he despised her. "It's the truth."
David sighed. She couldn't be innocent in this. "What else? What did you come here to speak with him about?"
Regina was growing impatient. But right now, he was her only chance to see her son so she decided to play along. "Someone from my past. I believe he's come back. Daniel. His name is Daniel."
David frowned. The name was familiar to him. The memory hit him hard. "The man you were supposed to marry." Regina looked at him incredulously. "Snow told me what happened … and it was her fault he died." David emphasized the last word, conveying his disbelief of having someone rise from the dead.
"Yes. He did."
Apparently, she wasn't going to be more forthcoming. David exhaled loudly. "Well, then how could he be back?"
Regina pointed toward the man on the hospital bed. "Whale." She paused and motioned toward him again. "He believed he could bring him back from the grave, and I don't know how… but he has." She whispered the last few words and David had to strain to hear her.
He was growing more and more impatient by the minute. He didn't want to deal with yet another one of her messes. "You don't know how? Guess!"
"He practices something more powerful than magic… or so I was told. All he needed was a heart and he took one of mine."
David visibly paled at the admission. He grabbed her arm and walked her to the side to let a nurse exit the critical care area. "You have hearts here?" Just when he thought things with Regina couldn't get worst, he discovered something else.
"In my vault." She paused. "From our world."
"Whose heart did he take?" He didn't know why it mattered so much to him.
"I have no idea. I took so many. It was impossible to keep track." David looked at her horrified. How could she be so casual with the lives she had taken?
Regina tried to free herself from his grip. "I need to go. I have to help him."
David stopped her as she was leaving. "No. Where is he? Look what he did. He's dangerous!" Despite everything he didn't want her to get hurt or worst. Henry would never forgive him or himself.
But Regina was already trying to get passed him. "Not to me. He won't hurt anyone else, David. I promise."
"You know I can't take that chance. You have two choices, Regina - tell me where he is or jail."
As if a jail could hold her. But if she used magic, she would lose her son. She swallowed. "I think it's like when … you awoke from your coma. He's following his final thoughts to where he last met me - the stables."
David's heart beat faster. "NO. Henry. Henry's at the stables."
EC
They ran to his car. Once more, David floored the accelerator toward the other side of town. The truck screeched to a halt in front of the main barn. They both ran inside. Regina called to her fiance as the scene she had dreaded most came into view. Daniel was holding her son by the throat, ready to kill him. "Daniel… Let him go!"
Upon hearing the voice of the woman he loved, Daniel unceremoniously dropped Henry on the stall floor. Henry rapidly scrambled to his feet, aided by his grandfather. "You're ok?" David half-dragged Henry outside the stall.
The kid regained his senses long enough to answer his grandfather. "Yeah."
David gave Henry a quick once-over to make sure he wasn't grievously injured. But Henry looked more shaken up than hurt. David pushed his grandson toward the main entrance. "Go. GO!" Henry didn't have to be told twice. He ran away from the monster as fast as he possibly could.
Regina was frozen in place. She had lost Daniel so long ago. She had never expected to see him again. Her heart was progressively filling with the love she didn't think she would ever be capable of again. She loved Henry. But filial love was different than the love she had shared only once. With the man standing in front of her. "It's true." Daniel looked straight at her, a sign of recognition on his face. Regina swallowed before continuing. "You're really here."
But Daniel launched toward her, ready to attack her. David pushed Regina out of the way and closed the door of the stall, latching it in place. He placed his hands flat on the wood surface, pressing his full weight on it. He could almost feel the rage emanating from the man inside. "It won't last for long. Can you cast a spell to subdue him?"
David knew that they would have to put the man down. He wasn't a man anymore. There was nothing left of Regina's fiance. But upon seeing Regina now and remembering what Snow had told him, he didn't want her to witness his death… again. Regina shook her head. "No… I won't use magic on him."
David didn't have time to argue, he could feel the door give out from under him. He turned around, leaning his back on the door. He grabbed his gun. When Regina heard the safety clicked, she lost the last bit of self-control she still possessed. "What do you think you're doing?"
"He is a monster, Regina! If you won't put him down, I will!"
Regina grabbed David's arm, begging him. "David please, just let me talk to him."
"It's too big of a risk. There's no telling what he'll do." David had a good idea. Unlike Regina, he could see past the shell. 'Daniel' would attack them and if they couldn't stop him, there would be more casualties in town. He couldn't let this happen.
"You have to at least give me a chance!"
"Out of the way, Regina! NOW!" He pushed her down to the ground. Ready to shoot the monster.
Regina growled. "No. I won't let you hurt him!" She grabbed him and tried to push him away. But he was too big for her tired arms. She just kept punching him. "He'll listen to me please." She was openly crying now. "Let me talk to my fiance."
Her tears stopped him. David knew that she didn't care much about the rest of the town. But she would never put her son in any danger. If Daniel became too much of a threat, she would stop him. He nodded before giving her a moment alone with Daniel.
EC
David ran back to the car. If Regina failed he wanted to make sure Henry was protected. He couldn't shake the images of Regina crying over her lost fiance. He didn't have all the details but he knew that losing Daniel would devastate her. He tried to hold on to the hope that she would bring him back somehow.
Once inside the truck, he made sure that Henry was fine. Thankfully, his grandson must have sensed his mood and stayed quiet, just answering David's questions about his health by yes or no. After the examination was over, they both sat in silence, eyes focused on the main entrance. The next ten minutes stretched into an eternity. David's heart sank. If Regina had succeeded, she would have come to reassure them that everything was fine. David gave her five more minutes before getting out of the car. "Henry, stay here! No matter what. If that man comes out of the barn, hide." Henry nodded and watched helplessly as his grandfather entered the stables.
Regina was curled on the concrete floor in a fetal position. Her hand was hovering over the pile of dust that David assumed to be Daniel. He swallowed his tears. Not only did she have to lose him again, but she had to be the one to kill him. But unlike the first time, he vowed to himself not to let her go through this alone.
David looked around the stable for a container. He found a tupperware, with remnants of carrots still inside. This would have to do for now until they could find something more suitable for Daniel's remains. David cleaned the plastic container as much as he could before approaching Regina.
He kneeled down across from her and took her hand. "Let's bring him home."
He was sure Henry must have heard the wails that came in response. David rushed to her side, getting her into a seating position. He wrapped his arms around her and started rocking them, letting Regina cried. She fisted his shirt and buried her head in his chest, her body shaking with every violent sob that escaped her throat.
David didn't know how long they had stayed in the cold barn until Regina finally quieted. Her eyes were glazed over and David knew she wasn't with him anymore. While still holding Regina, he gathered Daniel's remains and placed the tupperware in her hands.
Regina immediately hugged the container against her chest. David gently brushed her hair out of her face. "I'm going to take you home." He waited for an answer. Since none were forthcoming, he carried her to the car. Regina didn't move; she was holding Daniel against her heart and nothing else mattered to her anymore.
Upon seeing his grandfather carrying his mother, Henry hurried to open the passenger door. David got her inside. She had started shivering so he wrapped his leather jacket around her. Henry reached out to help his grandfather but Regina whimpered in response pulling away from her son and protecting Daniel's remains. David saw the tears forming in Henry's eyes. "Henry, she is going to be ok. Just give her some time."
"She hates me."
"No. She doesn't. But she is suffering and she doesn't want you to see her like this." This was the best half-truth he could come up with. Regina had everything taken away from her. And Henry had taken more than anyone else. She had pulled away because she was afraid Henry would try to take Daniel as well.
"She can't be alone."
"She won't be. I'll stay with her tonight. I'm going to drop you off with Red." Henry just nodded, careful to stay away from his mother. The lunch they had together the previous week was a step in the right direction but David knew it would take time to repair the relationship on both sides.
EC
David parked in front of the mayoral mansion fifteen minutes later. He was thankful Red and Granny hadn't asked any questions upon seeing Regina. As he carried her upstairs, David couldn't help but notice that she had lost more weight. He lied her down on the bed and tucked the throw blanket around her shaking form. He gently rubbed her cheek with the back of his hand, trying to get a reaction out of her. She had stopped crying in the stables but she had been in a catatonic state ever since. David didn't want her alone with her thoughts. He kneeled down by the bed and kept rubbing her tear-mared cheek.
Regina was still hanging on to Daniel's remains tightly. She wouldn't let him go, not again. She had lost everyone she cared about and there was no reasons for her to go on. But the warm feeling on her cheek was comforting and she eventually leaned into the touch, allowing herself one small moment of respite.
David smiled when he noticed her reaction. Her eyes were focusing back on him so he tried to speak to her softly. "You're home." David waited for her to acknowledge him. When she didn't, he kept talking to her soothingly. But the comforting words had the opposite effect than the one he had hoped. Regina started crying again and holding on to the tupperware with all her strength. David climbed on the bed next to her and pulled her to his chest. She was now sitting in-between his thighs, her back supported against his raised knee. "You're ok. You're safe. Shh…". He rocked her gently.
The scent was familiar, a mixture of stables and sweat, one she had always associated with Daniel. But Daniel was dead. David. He was holding her and rubbing her back. He was talking to her but she could not discern his words. It didn't matter. He would leave too. Everyone left her eventually. She was getting tired and she didn't want to fight anymore. She closed her eyes and let herself drift into sleep.
David was glad Regina was finally able to get some rest. His relief was short-lived however when he felt her shaking and tensing in his arms. He sighed. Even in her sleep she wouldn't be able to get the respite she desperately needed.
Her mother plunged her hand into Daniel's chest as she watched horrified. Cora crushed his heart and Daniel collapsed into her arms. She watched as the dust that was once her lover's heart fell to the floor. "Love is weakness."
Regina whimpered. David tighten his hold on her and placed a soft kiss in her hair. "Shh… you're home." He didn't know whether to wake her from her nightmares.
It was her sixteenth birthday. She had made plans with Daniel before all of this happened. They had planned on a romantic afternoon in the meadows. But he was gone. And so was her innocence.
She had been married for three weeks. Three weeks filled with pain and despair. But tonight she could celebrate. The King had left with his cursed daughter on a trip and she was thankfully alone. She had stolen a cupcake from the kitchen and was silently wishing for better days, holding the ring Daniel had given her.
Her peace was interrupted by Sarah, who was accompanied by one of Leopold's personal guard. The woman looked apologetic and Regina knew what was coming before the guard announced that the King was waiting for her in his chambers.
David had finally fallen asleep when her pained cry woke him. He soothingly rubbed her back waiting for her to settle against him one more time.
Everything hurt. She was bent forward, clutching her abdomen tightly as she walked back to her chambers and into Sarah's waiting hands. His seed ran down her thighs, where it was mingled with her blood. She had been told she would only bleed on her wedding night. But as with most things in her life, it had all been a lie.
Sarah helped her on a chair in her bathroom while the maids finished preparing her hot bath. Regina was still tightly fisting the ring. This ring had been full of promises of a future that could no longer be. Sarah saw the change in Regina that night. For the first time, she saw the anger that would eventually consumed the Queen. Regina threw the ring across the floor.
Regina moved in David's arms.
She was walking toward the man she had known as Daniel. She walked with the poise of the Queen she was toward the cowering man. She had seen the fear in the dozens she had killed and it gave her pleasure. She plunged her hand into his chest and crushed his heart. "Love is weakness."
Regina screamed and thrashed into the arms of an unprepared David, who had no choice but to release her. Regina jerked out of his embrace and crawled to the foot of the bed. David watched in horror as she plunged her hand into her own chest and removed her heart.
He had never seen an enchanted heart before today. But he was fairly sure they weren't all looking as battered as the one Regina was currently holding. The scream she released as she squeezed her own heart drove him into action.
The struggle was short-lived and David managed to pry Regina's fingers open. He took her heart and moved away from her. Her eyes were burning in anger. "How dare you?"
"Regina, please!"
"Give me my heart, shepherd!" She summoned a fireball and David visibly recoiled.
David swallowed hard as he moved the heart closer to him in an attempt to protect it. "Regina, please! Stop!" The fireball disappeared and David watched her incredulously. He spoke again. "You don't want to do that. Please, calm down." The woman visibly relaxed and David frowned. Why was she listening to him? The answer hit him. He had heard of the tales of magical control in the Enchanted Forest. David was holding her heart and she didn't have a choice but to obey him. He watched her closely again and saw the fear in her eyes. She never had control in her life and he was taking the last bit she had left. "Regina, I… I don't want to use it... but I don't want you to crush it either."
Regina felt the pull on her heart relax. "Look at it David! Don't you see the dark spots?" David didn't have to look at his hand. Her heart was mostly black. "They are for all the lives I've taken, all the lives I've ruined. Can you honestly tell me that everyone would not be better off without me?"
"Not Henry." David mindlessly started rubbing her heart with his thumb. Regina gasped. The feeling was unfamiliar but it felt good. "Regina are you ok?" She nodded. His touch was soothing and she didn't want him to stop. David continued. "Henry loves you. He doesn't want you dead. After the curse broke, he made us promise that we would protect you… that we wouldn't let anyone harm you." David turned her heart around and pointed to the bright red spot at the center. "And I think he is the one occupying that spot at the center of your heart."
So the shepherd wasn't as stupid as he looked. "David, there is nothing that can fix the darkness."
"But you can stop it from spreading."
She shook her head. "No. I don't want to. I don't want to fight anymore." Regina had taken hearts for control. But what David was doing to hers was different. She felt the warmth spreading throughout her body. The sensation was calming and she could suddenly feel how tired she really was.
David watched as Regina seemed to relax. She eventually curled at the foot of the bed and closed her eyes. He moved closer to her then, unfortunately stopping caressing her heart in the process. Her eyes shot open and she whimpered. The pain and despair were back. She looked at David, begging him to make it go away. He seemed to understand what she needed as he caressed her heart once more. Without thinking, David brought her heart to his lips and placed a soft kiss on the brightest spot he could find. Regina shivered, welcoming the feeling of serenity the gesture brought. David smiled. Maybe he could help her. He started speaking soothingly into her heart and watched as Regina finally fell asleep. He didn't know how to help the woman in the long term but he could at least give her one night of peaceful slumber.
Don't forget to leave reviews:) Entering the second act of this fic.