Title: Last Thing You'll Do
Author: Calliope-plantain
Rating: M
Pairing:Regina/Emma
Disclaimer: I do not own Once. All characters in this story sadly do not belong to me; they're simply being borrowed for a little while, and then will be returned. This story was not written for profit and no copyright infringements are intended.
Storyline: Regina could say her life was perfect… and then it got turned upside down.
Author's Note:Difficult to believe this story came from a dream… there is a point coming up in a future chapter where I woke up… I'm continuing it on however.
Beta: Scarlet-Marauder awesomely encouraged me to write this, and then was my beta. So any mistakes she's missed and any feelings of distress are her fault ;)
She felt warm and secure as her body regained its sense of the world. For months she had awoken with the feeling of dread and foreboding. Waking with a heavy weight pressing down upon her and her chest, making it nearly impossible to breathe. As her brain flickered into consciousness she felt that weight again. She felt as it pressed into her chest, pushing her into the mattress beneath her; only this time it was with a smile. Her breathes came easily as she felt her lover secured against her side, head resting against Regina's chest.
Opening her eyes she noted the room was now painted in colours of summer as her curtains did not hold out the blaring sun. Looking down she saw a clenched fist holding her top tightly in its grip, just over her heart as if Emma feared for Regina's departure during her slumber. Or maybe it was simply a gesture of security. To feel Regina was still there even as she slept. Either way the former Queen wouldn't have moved away from her. She could feel the steady thump of Emma's heart against her side and couldn't help the serene smile that took her lips captive.
Glancing over the top of the mess of blonde hair she saw it was little after half eight. They'd slept for only a few hours, like she knew they would. She remembered Emma saying she was likely lag during their day ahead and the only thing which enabled Regina to manoeuvre her way free from her sleeping bedfellow was the promise that Regina could accompany her when it happened.
She felt Emma's hand grip at her top a little tighter as she moved away and had to repress a chuckle at the disappointed groan emitting from the sleeping woman. As gently as she could she uncurled the hand from herself as she moved from the bed completely. Emma shifted, and Regina grinned at the bleary eye peering over the edge of the cover at her. Just as Henry did when she woke him. The brunette sat back on the bed just out of the reach of the other woman, as the blonde's face crunched slightly in objection to being awake.
"Go back to sleep. I'm going to have a shower and get dressed then you can have one if you want" Regina said as quietly as she could to still sleep dazed woman.
"Okay" was the croaked reply still thick with sleep. Regina felt her smile tighten as she leant forward placing a kiss to the mess of blonde tresses that was sticking out from the top of the covered. She felt her heart dance in her chest at the contented sigh from the other woman. Though that was the only noise Emma made as she buried her head deeper into her pillow, and Regina could tell she was asleep in moments.
Her shower was nothing special but she allowed the heavy down pour to loosen the tension in her tight muscles. She stood arms raised as the heat and stream filled her fogged brain and washed away all thoughts. She wouldn't wash her hair this morning, but the apple shower gel she lathered across her body filled her with its scent and cleared all the cobwebs of sleep. Cleared the nagging hint of desperation she felt in the light of Emma's revelations. She allowed the shower to wash away her worries and focuses on the only things she had control over. Emma and Henry's happiness and enjoyment. She would work her hardest to ensure her family got what it deserved, and she too would relish it. Gold's "gift" had given them something to cherish and Regina would do just that.
Stepping out she shivered as the cool air rushed at her bare skin. It was a dramatic change from the thick stream from the shower, though it was a change she welcomed considerable as it was quite a humid June; at least for Storybrooke. The nearest towel is quickly run over herself ridding her body of the water there. Deodorant was sprayed and her toothbrush and hairbrush was run across their respected places in quick concession. Clutching the towel around herself she exited the bathroom in a billow stream and bite back a smirk at Emma's current position.
Emma had now buried her face into Regina's pillow, much as she always did when Regina wasn't there. While Regina found it difficult to sleep on what she had long coined as "Emma's side", Emma did not have the same qualms, and was now almost laid diagonally across the bed. The cover was tucked beneath her chin. Watching Emma sleep was something she could do for hours if she allowed herself. She had always found Emma's deep sleep filled breathing soothing, and would soon follow her partner into the land of dreams. Sadly today she did not have the luxury of hours to spare. Maybe later.
As quietly as she could the former Queen flicked through her many garments of clothing, silently cursing herself for not readying her outfit the night before as she always did. Emma's return home had thrown her and her usual scheduled planning off kilter. It was something despite her slither annoyance at herself, she would never take back. Last night had been one of the most difficult in her entire existence and considering her life even Regina knew how difficult some in her past were to beat. But Emma was back. With a flutter of butterflies Regina couldn't help the small smile that former upon her face at the thought it. Emma had come home. The idea of not having the future they had talked about hurt in a way Regina couldn't put into words. The mere thought of it cut the woman more deeply than she could have ever imagined. With a lingering feeling of dread she swallowed back the negatives as best she could as she pulled out a blouse and a pair of jeans as she readied for the day ahead.
Her wardrobe choices were simple but smart. Even her jeans were the higher end of the market, much to Emma's annoyance. The blonde however did like the denim's snug fit upon Regina's waist and other assets so she would get the kick of being comfortable and knowing her partner would have a difficult time taking her eyes from her. While Regina no longer had a need to wear the Mayoral suits she had become assumed to, she did like to look presentable. Whatever activity Henry had planned for their family afternoon out, she knew her current attire would best serve the necessary purpose. Natural make up would also suffice.
With her outfit in place and read to fight the day a head Regina made her way over to her own side of the bed. Emma hadn't stirred since she had entered the room. The small huffs of noise the sleeping woman was making made Regina feel momentarily guilty at the thought of having to wake her. The blonde wouldn't be happy if she left her sleeping so it was with a slightly heavy heart Regina knelt on one knee beside the bed, bringing her face to face with the sleeping blonde.
"Emma" Regina said gently not to startle the slumbering woman. She got nothing. Emma didn't even seem to move. It was with a repress of a chuckle Regina repeated the blonde's name a little louder. An unfocused eye opened and Emma shot back slightly at the shock of their proximity.
"Hey" Emma said sleepily and it took all the strength Regina possessed not to just give in to the pull of it. To say forget their planned day and simply join the other woman in what Emma called a "lazy day" and spend the day in warmth of her lover's embrace and sleep for as long as was needed. Except she couldn't and with a glance at Emma's bedside clock she noted she had taken longer than she expected to get ready, though for the extra minutes she had allowed Emma to sleep she found she did not care. The Charmings and their son could wait a little longer.
"Hey" Regina grinned back at the lazy smile the formed in slow motion across Emma's face. A face that was marred by creases made by their pillows and slightly rosy with sleep. Regina tightened her smile a little too much at the thought that one day, she wouldn't get to see this. There would be a day in the not so distant future that Regina would not wake up next to that beautiful smile she'd become accustomed to. The smile she was meant to see for the rest of their lives.
"It's time to get up" Regina added softly still allowing Emma to acclimatise to being awake. Emma made a slight noise of annoyance but gave a stretch that made Regina hear multiple bone crunching clicks, it was followed by a calmer sound of contentment. The younger woman sat up, rubbing a hand across her sleep filled eyes and letting out a loud audible yawn, clearly unaware of Regina's inner struggle to once again lock out the world and just be them, in this room where no one could get them. They could lie in bed for hours and have no one bother them. They could sleep, talk and laugh. They could make love like nothing else mattered; only their life was calling with a resounding scream that could not be ignored. "Why don't you go and have a shower and get dressed while I make breakfast" Regina said unsure if in her sleepy haze Emma would remember the conversation from earlier.
It was with a sluggish "Okay" Emma clambered out of their bed, her hair stuck up at odd angles and Regina realised for the first time she actually really liked the length. The reasoning behind the shortened hair still flickered fear and disgust within her, but the length really did look good on the other woman. Emma didn't seem to give her backward glance as she steadied herself before walking to their ensuite. It was hardly a change from their usual routine; Emma Swan was not a morning person.
Emma however came to a stop in the doorway one hand grasping the doorframe. "Is it okay to use your toiletries, it's just I can't be bothered to get mine from the Bug" Emma asked with a sheepish grin.
"Of course dear" was her simple reply. There was no need for Emma to ask. Regina had always liked it when Emma smelt of her bathing products. Back at the start of their relationship, even before people knew they were together she loved it because it was as if she was marked as hers. Only hers. It was with a more reassured grin Emma retreated into their ensuite.
Regina rushed down the stairs ignoring the half destroyed box upon the side in the favour for two glass bowls and collected all the ingredients she'd need. It was mindless work as she added each ingredient in order, following the recipe from her own head. Once the batter was made, she set it aside; and walked back through the hallway. The former queen reached into Emma's oversized jacket to retrieve the old car's keys. It took her seconds to stride across the bright coloured car, opening the door she saw the boxes carrying her lover's belonging.
It took five journeys for all boxes to be collected. Without breaking stride the brunette walked past the four boxes she'd placed in the hall way and carried the final one up the stairs. Upon entering the room she was greeted by the vision of Emma wrapped in one of their fluffiest towels, much as Regina had been less than an hour before.
"What are you doing?" Emma asked uneasily her brow creased in confusion despite it being very clear to Regina what it was she was currently doing. Placing the not so light box upon the foot of their bed Regina turned with a small smile.
"Brought in your belongings. The rest are downstairs" Regina answered as lightly as she could, but she could see a shadow fall across Emma's face though could not fathom its origin.
"Oh, thanks" Emma replied almost curtly. The other woman's stature was smaller than was usual. It unnerved Regina. Was Emma regretting this? Regretting coming back? Maybe it was presumptuous to assume Emma was ready to move back into the mansion with Henry and her. Was that where Emma's request to borrow her toiletries had come from, uncertainty? Not wanting to commit? If that was so maybe she had been wrong about last night. No, she had to stop making assumptions and doubting herself and Emma. Making assumptions is what got them into this mess. Their failure to communicate had caused more damage than good.
"What?" Regina asked trying to sound as level as she could, despite the butterflies that seemed to have taken permanent residence in her stomach within the last twelve hours.
"Nothing" Emma said her tone of nonchalance wasn't as effective as the other woman clearly wanted it to be. Regina didn't always get it right, but when she did she could read Emma like a well-read book.
"Emma…" Regina encouraged and saw Emma's resolve broke almost instantly.
"You didn't have to" her love answered with a small shrug, though she had yet to look her in eye since Emma had spotted the box in her hand. The blonde was now leaning over the box rummaging through its contents; though even Regina could see it wouldn't hold anything the woman would need at the moment.
"I know but I wanted to" she reassured the other woman and saw Emma's take in a deep breath though the volume of it barely reached her ears. The other woman turned to look at her almost with a look of contemplation upon her face. She saw Emma swallow gently, and with a flick of her wet hair Emma shook her head faintly.
"I just got used to doing things for myself" Emma admitted quietly, as her tongue darted quickly across her bottom lip. Regina hadn't considered what the blonde might take her gesture as. She had only sort to help the other woman.
"You don't have to do everything for yourself anymore" Regina reassured though couldn't help the small breathless laugh at her own stupidity. It wasn't about Emma not wanting to be with her and their son. It was about what it had always been about, Emma not wanting to burden them with the task of looking after her.
"I know" Emma replied carefully.
"I'm here now" Regina stated firmly wanting Emma to know without doubt she had meant everything she had said the night before. She was here now. There was no running for either of them. She loved Emma more than she ever thought possible and she was going to do what she could, when she could to ensure Emma's time with her family was as enjoyable as it could be. For all of them.
"I know" Emma said again, her tone wavered slightly though Regina couldn't pinpoint the reason for it. When had it become so difficult for her to understand Emma. Was it simply because she had been out of practice for so long? Or was this the Emma she had the pleasure of sharing her company with today. Regina wished she no longer had to second guess her lover's motives but the cancer within her brain was determined she always would.
"I want to help you" Regina clarified softly not wanting to force the other woman into help she did not want or need, though she saw the flicker in her partner's eyes.
"I know Regina" Emma repeated only now her tone carried a slight tone of annoyance. It was with a slight huff the other woman moved enabling her to sit upon the mattress, her legs pressed into the side of the bed.
"Emma…" Regina says even her own ears she head the unconscious warning. She did not want to fight. It was a few boxes. It wasn't a hassle to bring them in the house, nor to bring them upstairs. Emma had been busy doing other things, while she was waiting around. It made sense to use her time effectively…and she wanted to help.
"Shit…" Emma said her voice barely above a whisper, lowering her eyes and Regina against her better judgement felt a slither of guilt at her tone. Emma had been living on her own for the last three months and when she wasn't she had strangers pawing over her body and daily routine with little say or control over anything. It was logical Emma felt it was necessary to hoard that control and independence, but she shouldn't take it out on her.
"I was just wanted to help" Regina breathed wanting Emma to understand. She wasn't trying to take away any of the blonde's control, she wasn't saying Emma needed looking after. By the sound of things Emma had been doing a good job of that on her own, and she didn't want to impede that. She just wanted to help out when she could, to feel useful because what else could she do as Emma was in front of her literally dying. There was not a damn thing she could do, so she'd carry a few boxes a couple of hundred yards and bring them upstairs so the other woman didn't have to.
"I know. I'm sorry" Emma said a little softly now, though her face was painted with guilt and shame as her eyes rose back to her own. Her apology while warranted just made Regina feel almost worse. Regina didn't want her to feel those things. She did not want Emma to feel bad, she wanted to help Emma feel good and happy; and yet again it seemed she had managed just the opposite. The blonde took the few strides towards her almost attentively. It took her by surprise when she felt Emma's arms wrap themselves around her.
Wet hair tickled the side of her face as she watched drops of water clinging to the fair shoulder in front of her eyes. Taking a deep breath she allowed herself the comfort the hug held. She allowed herself the luxury of holding her lover close and felt the tickle of the other woman's breath against her cheek. This wasn't easy for Emma, just as it wasn't easy for Regina. Their life held every damning insecurity Emma had feared and played it out in front of them as they both ran to keep up with the rollercoaster their lives had become.
"I know" Emma whispered again, before placing a kiss upon her hairline. Regina heard the tone of understand and the knowing behind the words this time. Emma understood her frustration, her need to help. Her need to do something, anything useful. The former Mayor couldn't help the feeling of sadness as she realised that she must be feeling something similar to what Emma had been feeling. Emma could take all the medication she was given and eat the right things, sleep the right hours and wear the warmest of clothes; and yet here she was her time coming to an end. She was just like Regina, doing what she could in the hope it might just make it a little better.
To her astonishment she did not feel the sting of tears nor saw any in her love's eyes as Emma pulled away. She only saw appreciation and couldn't help the small smile that graces her lips. She'd give all she could to the woman before her; she'd give even more if Emma allowed it. There was no need for neither thanks nor shame; resentment nor obligation. She did what she did out of love just as she always had. Emma's condition did nothing to change that, nor did it influence the flutter of need to protect her from all the bad in the world and all other realms. She did it all for love and she would until the very end.
She saw the flutter of shyness creep into Emma's smile as her tongue dances along her bottom lip once more. She couldn't help but smile back and hope Emma understood. "I'm bringing up the other boxes" Regina stated firmly and only detected a small shift in the woman still holding her shoulders. No rebuff or refusal escaped her lips though and she continued. "While you get dressed and then I will finish making our pancakes and I except to see you downstairs shortly" Regina continued trying her hardest to not show her delight at the glee in Emma's grin at the mention of pancakes. It wasn't an indulgent she allowed often but today she would make the exception, though if Emma beamed at her every time she made them she would make them daily. Who cared for the pounds she'd gain at the expensive of that beautiful smile.
"Okay" Emma agreed easily and it made her heart skip within her chest. If it was simply pleasures like pancakes that made Emma happy she would keep doing them. If it was things like this that made the other stuff more bearable, more enjoyable she'd do anything she could to make that smile happen more often. As she turned to leave she felt Emma's hand upon her forearm. She felt the butterflies flutter slightly at the smile the other woman was giving her. It was one of appreciation and love in equal measure. "Thank you" Emma breathed, causing Regina's own breath to catch in her throat.
"It's no bother Emma" Regina said softly and saw the smile shine brighter before her. Placing her own arm upon Emma's opposite shoulder she gave it a gentle squeeze of reassurance before pulling herself away from her love's grasp. She could stay locked in Emma's embrace all day if she let herself. Maybe whatever Henry had planned for their afternoon would allow her just that, but for now she needed to keep them moving or they'd never get to the Charming's.
Her repeated journeys up and down the stairs, boxes in hand made for quite an odd experience. Upon entering their room Regina found Emma in a different state of dress each time. Clad only in a towel, then underwear, followed by her jeans in which Emma was nursing the broken belt loop. It was almost as if Emma believed she could fuse the material together with her hands, and maybe Regina could but she'd need to look and check how to do it. Her urge to just try and screw the circumstances faded away at Emma's admission that this was the only pair she owned that still fit. Regina noted for the first time that the belt around Emma's waist had holes added to the leather to make it a tighter fit. It was a stark reminder of the weight Emma had lost since she'd left Storybrooke and she tried her hardest not to dwell or stare at the slim waist as Emma continued her fruitless battle.
Her fifth and final journey found Emma now fully dressed trying to tame her newly washed hair. It seemed Emma cared very little for the style the mop of hair took as long as it was brushed. Dropping the last box down upon the floor as the bed was now filled with the others she noted a slight change of smell to the air. Turning back to face the blonde she saw the bottle of perfume she'd smashed only the week before. That wasn't possible. She'd thrown the fragments away and had to scrub the fragrant liquid out of the carpet. It wasn't salvageable, and yet Emma had just sprayed herself with it.
"What's that?" Regina asked loudly.
"Perfume…" Emma answered slowly clearly confused. She seemed to even look down at the bottle as if to check it was indeed perfume.
"You left it here" the older woman stated, feeling just as confused as Emma looked.
"I know…I bought a new one" Emma countered with a smile as she placed the bottle upon the vanity; the exact place the old one had resided in. Regina couldn't help the rush of disbelief and frustration she felt at Emma's words.
"You bought a new one…Emma that cost me over two hundred dollars" Regina replied incredulously. It took the former Mayor a moment to realised she'd just revealed the price of Emma's birthday present, though it didn't seem to matter anymore.
"I know" Emma stated evenly, her eyes narrowed slightly; clearly not understanding the point Regina was making.
"You bought yourself a two hundred dollar bottle of perfume?" Regina asked sceptically. She had bought herself a bottle of expensive perfume when prior to Storybrooke she wouldn't have even bothered with the stuff except for special occasions; which was rare.
"I like it…it reminds me of you" Emma said self-consciously. To add to the moment she watched as in slow motion as Emma's cheeks flushed with possible embarrassment Regina had never meant to cause with her questioning. Her heart warmed at the confession. Regina couldn't help but shake her head however, of all the things Emma needed and could have bought with her money the perfume wasn't a high priority.
"The price never bothered you when you brought it. Though I bet the look on my mother's face when I opened a bottle of perfume called "7 Billion Hearts" was worth the money" Emma said her tone one of smug amusement at her expense, despite the fact she was still sporting a deep red tinge upon her cheeks.
"Indeed it was" Regina replied easily seeing Emma's eyes glint with the same delight she had felt at Snow's look of horror at reading the name on Emma's last birthday. It most certainly was worth every cent. "Though I also bought it because I love it when you smell of vanilla…it makes you smell…" Regina finished talking with a contented sigh. She was stunned that the smug look upon Emma's face did not deepen, but instead the blonde simply walked towards her with a slight sway of her hips.
"Is that so?" Emma breathed inches away from her face, allowing her scent to fill her nostrils. Vanilla mixed with a hint of apple. All Regina's. Regina could only nod slightly, feeling a little vulnerable for her admission. The smile she was given in return however washed away any feeling of vulnerability in quick swoop.
With a grin Emma turned to give her hair one last tweaking, and Regina couldn't help her smirk the other woman's efforts. She had never seen Emma put so much effort and time into her hair for just an ordinary day. Emma not looking at her however enabled Regina to allow her gaze to wander across Emma's face. She was happy to see the dark patches beneath her eyes looked a little less defined and her face a little less lined. Her eyes lowered to her prominent collarbone and supposed she would have to get used to it. It took her a moment to realised what was else was wrong with that area; Emma isn't wearing her swan pendant. Before she can ask however Emma rushes passed her. "Shit" Emma breathed running into their bathroom at a bound.
"What?" Regina asked with a bark feeling panic settling in instantly. Emma gave no reply which did not lessen the feeling of dread she felt rising within her. Rushing after her the brunette came to stop with a slight skid upon the bathroom floor and gasped upon seeing the crimson fluid flowing from Emma's nose as she hunched over the sink.
Regina remained stock still. She was literally unable to move. Her feet wouldn't move her forward to offer support or backwards to give privacy. Regina was simply stood looking at Emma's reflection in the mirror above the sink, her mouth agape.
"Go start the breakfast I'll be down soon" Emma said over her shoulder, her voice sounding slightly muffled by the grip she had upon the bridge of her nose. She couldn't move. Her brain couldn't comprehend the words that fell from her partner's mouth. She saw Emma's lips move in her reflection but the meaning of the words was lost in the air between them.
"Regina…" Emma says forcefully breaking her concentration, or lack of in this case. She noticed Emma was now looking at her in her reflection and Regina could still see the blood coming from the blonde's nose. "It's okay. It happens… I'll be five minutes tops" the other woman said in a tone which surprisingly almost reassured her. She remembered Emma's explanation about bleeding problems, she had even told her about the nosebleeds. But seeing it? Watching her love's blood literally pouring out of her body and seeing Emma's failed attempted to stop it as it fell into their dazzling white sink? The dazzling white of the sink seemed to brighten against the crimson life force of her partner. She had not readied herself for that.
"I'm okay" Emma reassured her, and even Regina could see the blood flow was lessening. She didn't like it. She wasn't even sure she would ever get used to it, as it seemed from her tone Emma had. How could you get used to frequently bleeding from your face and not worry about it? Just get on it with as if it was a fact of life; and there it was. It was a fact of life, just as being unable to moderate her body temperature or emotions had become part of Emma's everyday life, this had too.
With a nod she left and with every step she took she felt the pull tugging her backwards. She wanted to help, except Emma seemed to have it under control. It was Emma who was taking care of her by sending her away. She had been the Evil Queen and she had frozen upon seeing her partner having a nose bleed.
Her brain still buzzed as she made their stack of pancakes. Though it lessened as she watched the batter fall and form their neat circles in the pan. It quietened as she waited until the exact moment she needed to flip them and cook their second side. By the time Emma entered the kitchen, the final pancake was added to Regina's plate and her brain was almost completely silent.
As she turned Regina notice the other woman was now wearing a white cardigan over her attire. It actually looked well made, and warm. Far too warm for Regina's liking on the last day in June but she understood Emma's predicament and hoped for a moment that Henry wouldn't notice or question the blonde's wardrobe choices. She noted Emma was also carrying a purse over her shoulder and felt pretty certain she had never seen her carry one before. Emma was more of an "everything will fit into my pockets" kind of person.
She placed both of their plates down at their respected places, and felt her stomach flip at the smile Emma gave her. Thankfully the younger woman had removed all evidence of her nosebleed but Regina still felt uneasy about it. She felt as if they should do something about it. She placed two forks upon the table as well as the Maple syrup and butter. Regina personally only had butter on her pancakes but Emma and their son seemed to take delight in having lashings of the sticky syrup much to Regina's dislike. Today however she would endure it with a smile.
Finally she filled two glasses with orange juice, feeling while she could use the caffeine kick it might be insensitive to indulge in it when Emma couldn't. She placed the two glasses upon the table next to their plates and saw Emma looking thoughtful over to her left. "Everything okay dear" Regina asked and saw Emma's eyes narrow up at her from her sitting position.
She watched as Emma smiled with a nod. "Yeah I just need a…" the blonde said but came to an abrupt halt. She saw as a look of confusion tinted the fair face. Regina squished the urge to encourage the other woman as Emma worried her bottom lip. She could literally see both the frustration and annoyance etched into the lines on Emma's face. It was then Regina's turn to fight the impulse to fire suggestions at the other woman. An impulse that was thankfully squashed as she saw Emma's face light up in comprehension. It was with a proud beam Emma asked, "Please can you pass me a knife?"
It took Regina a moment to realise she had forgotten to set out knives, if she had Emma wouldn't have had to struggle to remember the word. "Sure" Regina said with a tight smile she hoped didn't look faked, as she turned to their cutlery draw pulling out two. It took seconds for Emma to attack her pancake stack which Regina saw instantly she had in fact lathered in Maple syrup as she had predicted.
If Regina was honest with herself she was surprised Emma didn't seem…embarrassed at her lapse in memory. Sure she had told Regina at times she struggled with naming things, but she still expected some sort of reaction from the former Sheriff.
Sitting next to the blonde Regina started eating her pancakes with a considerably less enthusiasm. As her second mouthful was placed in her mouth she found herself eyeing up the Maple syrup and considering it for a moment. Should she try it? She never had, if she was to indulge in other pleasures why not that as well. What harm could it do her, just this once?
"Thank you" Emma said enthusiastically already on her second pancake, clearly not paying attention to the sticky substance Regina was pouring over her own.
"They're only pancakes Emma" Regina replied feeling a little shy over Emma's unnecessary gratitude.
"No" the blonde said firmly with a wave of her fork. The green eyes seemed to dazzle slightly for a moment. "For not trying to help. It might sound weird but its better that you don't" Emma explained as the start of her third pancake was put into her mouth. Confusion hit Regina square in the stomach at the words. Was she not meant to help Emma? Surely any prompts she could give would ease any distress the forgetfulness might bring.
Sensing Regina's confusion Emma continued. "If you tell me then I'll know, but I won't have remembered. If I'm really struggling and look like I won't remember whatever it is then please tell me but first give me a shot at it" Emma clarified softly. It was odd to think this was their life now. With the possibility of Emma forgetting literally it seemed anything, even ordinary things like knives.
"Okay" Regina promised with a smile as she placed her first syrup covered bite into her mouth. She had to hold back the moan of satisfaction at the taste of it. Despite the fact she could feel the sugar content immediately rotting her teeth she could tell why her family favoured it. It was delicious. It was also the reason why she managed to almost hoover two of her pancakes at a speed similarly to the woman who placed her fork down upon an empty plate.
"Henry called" Emma said taking a sip of her orange juice, Regina herself had forgotten about. "He said we're going to the beach. Mom is making some food for lunch, so we have to get there about ten, half ten" Emma explained into her glass. Regina nodded in response. She had already assumed that the Charming duo would be expecting their arrival around that time and had planned for it.
Regina watched Emma move to retrieve her purse from under the table as she ate her last pancake. After a few seconds of rummaging through it, the blonde pulled out a strip of tablets. Two yellow ones like the evening before were popped out onto the table. It was with the last bite of her breakfast Regina watched Emma take the tables with the last of her orange juice. When the blonde looked up from her task Regina's eyes dropped to the last of her own juice hoping Emma hadn't seen her watching her. However over the rim of her glass she saw the slightly shy smile looking back at her.
The other woman stretched as Regina snatched up the two plates and put them in the dish washer. She heard Emma leave and move around in the hall as Regina added their cutlery and glasses to the dirty dishes. She'd set it away later. Walking into the hall she saw Emma's attempts to put her boots on, while balancing her large coat and purse across her arm. Deciding flats were probably the better choice for their day a head Regina took seconds to put them on and made a grab for her summer jacket. It was unlikely she'd need it, but better to be safe than sorry.
"If we're going to the beach do you want to just take the Bug?" Emma asked as Regina moved passed her to leave the house. She couldn't help the disgruntled noise that fell from her lips. In almost two years together Regina had become somewhat used to rides in the bright yellow car, however she still avoided it when possible. "Better my car gets filled with sand than yours" Emma said with a tone of amused suggestion. She wasn't wrong there. It was cost a fortune to get her car cleaned, while Emma's already smelt…fausty.
Emma stepped over the threshold allowing Regina to lock up behind them. "We could drive in mine, and…drive from your parents' in their car" Regina suggested, sounding feeble to even her ears. There was no way Emma would take her side on this and she already knew the idea was a ridiculous one.
"Do you really want to ride with my mother all the way there?" Emma replied with a tone of extreme glee at Regina's expense. The older woman simply scowled as the former Sheriff laughed openly. The sound of it made Regina's inside squirm. It was with a smirk Emma opened her passenger door and with a resounding "oh" Regina remembered she had pocketed Emma's car keys. But how had she known?
The start of the drive was quiet. Not awkward just silent. Though something she couldn't help but notice was Emma's frequent glance up at the rear view mirror. It was almost as if she didn't trust herself. Regina bite back the emotion that came with the memory of Emma telling her she was finally able to drive again after her operation. From where Regina was sitting she was doing everything she was supposed to be doing, better in fact than most. Emma had once confessed she like many, once she had been driving for a while lost her need to follow the rules of the road to the letter. As long as she could drive and still keep everyone safe that was fine, but Regina could see it. Could see it in Emma's movements, her stance and facial expression she was trying. Trying too hard. She was afraid of doing something wrong.
She placed a hand against Emma's thigh, and felt it twitch under her fingertips. It seemed to break Emma's concentration and she receiving a small smile though the blonde did not take her eyes off the road. Unlike in the past one of Emma's own hands did not come to rest upon hers. She allowed Emma to take comfort in it anyway.
"I have a confession" Regina said possibly a little too loudly for their silent journey and saw Emma turned her head in her direction. She looked a little worried. It was hardly surprising considering Emma's recent confessions. Glancing at the car's clock she saw it had been almost exactly twelve hours since Emma had knocked on her front door. How was that possible? She gave the thigh her hand was resting upon a slight squeeze hoping Emma would feel it and feel reassured, now her eyes were back on the road.
"I smashed your perfume bottle" Regina confessed quietly and saw Emma's head turn so fast she was surprised she didn't have whiplash. The other woman had a look of worry on her face and it took Regina a moment to consider the reason. "Not your new one! The one you left" the former queen said in a rush, hearing Emma sigh in relief as her attention was drawn back to the road in front of them. Summer it seemed had brought families out in their cars as the traffic was moving slower than usual. Regina wondered if for a moment the beach was a good idea on a day as good as this one.
"You smashed it" Emma said in disbelief though her tone held one of slight amusement.
Regina nodded before realising her lover wouldn't be able to see. "Yes" Regina said carefully trying to gage Emma's reaction.
"You smashed the perfume you just told me off for buying? It cost you over two hundred dollars" the other woman said incredulously. She couldn't stop the chuckle at the irony that Emma was now telling her off despite the fact they both knew out of the two of them who had the most money. "I guess I know now why our room smells funky" Emma continued all traces of disbelief gone from her tone though in its place seemed to be a humorous lilt.
"It doesn't smell" Regina grumbled which only seemed to fuel Emma's amusement at the situation. Regina had not felt it was funny at the time. She had cried herself to sleep that night; it was something she hadn't done in almost a month. She felt as if she had lost that last little bit of Emma she had left.
"It does a little" Emma remarked bluntly looking over at Regina with a grin.
Regina had smelt the perfume for days. At first it didn't go away, it was sickly in its ability to overpower her senses. But as time progressed she smelt it less and less, it had only really evident when she entered the bedroom and then she would become acclimatised again to the fragrant. It was with a stark moment of consciousness that she realised that Henry hadn't entered her bedroom since just before the bottle had broken, so she didn't even have his back up to state if the room smelt of the spilt perfume.
"I like the smell" Regina admitted, feeling her face tingle at the confession.
"So you broke the bottle?" Emma asked dubiously with a slight low chuckle.
"I knocked it off" Regina said defensively.
Emma continued to laugh softly. She supposed she could be honest and tell Emma the truth. Emma had been honest enough with her over her reasoning for buying the extra bottle. She had done it because it reminded her of Regina. "It reminded me of you…" Regina said repeating Emma's earlier statement. She couldn't look at Emma though as the declaration was breathed out. She did however hear Emma's slight inhale in what sounded like surprise as the laughter died out.
"So you broke the bottle?" Emma asked her again though her tone sounded different, it was difficult for Regina to pinpoint the emotion or intent behind the words.
"I knocked it off" Regina repeated feeling a little foolish at what sounded like Emma's rebuff. It surprised her when she felt Emma's hand finally being placed upon her own. It took her a moment to remember that her hand was resting upon the blonde's thigh, but it took no time for her heart to skip a beat at the sensation. Turning her head to look at the driving blonde she saw the smile that was gracing Emma's lips. The same smile that had accompanied Regina admission to liking her smell of vanilla. It was endearing and special, and just for Regina. It was her smile. She'd missed it.
"I'd…" Regina started not quite sure if she should continue. It was stupid and juvenile. Except the smile was still there. It warmed her heart and made her brain fog and clear at the same time. It held none of the problems and fears that had been haunting her since last night, but swam with only one thought. Emma Swan. Her Emma. The blonde's hand squeezed hers slightly in a form of comfort as her eyes flickered back and forth from the road and necessary mirrors. But when her emerald eyes landed upon her again, Emma's smile tightened and Regina knew she was okay. She was safe just as she had always been. Yes her confession was childish, but that was okay, and Emma would understand and wouldn't use it against her.
"I sprayed it just before going to sleep because it made it feel like you were there" Regina confessed with a swallow of nerves she felt bubbling under the surface. There was a moment's pause. She saw the smile fade. They were nearly at Emma's parents' apartment. Silence seemed to descend once more in the small vehicle and she hated it. She hated the surge of almost uncertainty she felt in Emma's silence. She did not expect a big song and dance over her admission. But she expected acknowledgment…reassurance.
"I bought the perfume because it reminded me of you" Emma admitted once more into the thick silence. Regina felt the pit of her stomach churn in the light of the admission because it was one Emma had already made. Though maybe the other woman was showing understanding in Regina's actions. Emma however continued. "I also bought the same shampoo, conditioner and shower gel that you use" the driver admitted gently though unlike Regina, Emma did not shift her eyes away from her as they neared a set of traffic lights.
Regina felt the trickle of shock and surprise mix within her head as she tried as hard as she could not look away from the eyes that bore into her. She couldn't stop the disbelieving smile that formed upon her lips at the words. "It allowed me on the days at 3 am when I couldn't sleep, I could close my eyes and you were there with me" Emma explained in a calmed voice that seemed to rock the older to her core. It was a simple admission but it equalled her own. Her heart swelled in her chest and lump formed and stuck in her throat making it impossible to speak.
"I knew it was possible I could forget all this for a while" the blonde continued pull away from the traffic lights which had impeded their journey momentarily. With her concentration back on the road Emma's fingers trailing patterns against the bacl of her hand. "Storybrooke, my folks and Henry. But I had those tangible things. They were just smells that would flicker a memory inside of me…of you and I knew I'd be okay" Emma finished her tone faintly hushed.
Regina bite back her emotions, feeling her eyes sting. She could not turn up at the Charmings' looking as if she had been crying. She could not let Henry see. He could not know yet. She didn't know what to say and felt momentarily guilty over her now inability to speak. Though Emma did not look upset by it as she glanced over at her passenger. In fact she saw understanding shining back at her. Emma had done just as she had, except Emma had done it with the uncertainty of what tomorrow might bring. She had done it to keep Regina with her, just as she had done those lonely nights.
"I knew you liked me wearing vanilla" Emma said her tone one of remarkable jest.
"You did?" Regina asked breathlessly still trying to keep a reign on her emotions.
"Yeah. Mom gave me back the list you gave her for my birthday in case I wanted to put the things I didn't get on my Christmas list" the driving woman said with a small chortle. Emma's explanation didn't make it any clearer. She felt her eyebrow rise when the former Sheriff looked at her and her breath hitched at Emma's open giggle.
"I didn't ask for the vanilla bath set…that I got" Emma confirmed with a shy smirk. Regina didn't need a mirror to know she was blushing. She felt the heat instantly and was pretty sure it was radiating from her face. She could deny it. Faux ignorance at the whole thing but what would be the point. It was true. She loved Emma's own scent but it was heightened by vanilla. She couldn't even remember what had happened to make her have the realisation that was true.
"So yeah I knew" the other woman added with a nose crinkle in her direction. Despite her humorous manner Regina felt the hand upon hers curl slightly taking hold of it. It was the gentle squeeze that made her heart flutter a little within her chest.
"It's not my fault it makes you smell delicious, dear" Regina retorted aiming for the same air of humour. She watched Emma's eyebrow rise as the blonde glanced over at her, and saw she had picked up upon her intended double innuendo. It was with a tickle of laughter from Emma they turned into Snow's block. Killing the engine she felt Emma freeze for a moment before turning and giving her a huge smile. It reached her eyes and made them sparkle. "You ready for this…" she asked with a level of confidence Regina had yet to reach over the whole situation.
"As I'll ever be" Regina replied and was surprised to see a sparkle of understanding Emma eyes. She wasn't as poised and ready as she seemed. That alone made her feel more confident because they could do it together even if they were unsure of what was going to happen in the future. It was with a nod the blonde got out of the car.
Emma had barely knocked when Snow ripped the door open and swamped Emma into a tight hug. She even heard Emma's breath being involuntary pushed out of her lungs. Snow only had eyes and attention for daughter and for once Regina didn't mind in the slightest. "Hi Mom" Emma forced out but Regina saw the younger women's arms wrap around her mother all the same. It was odd to see the dramatic change in their relationship. Four months ago Emma still struggled with physical affection when it came to her mother. It was a shame that the change had come in the light of something so dire.
Neither Charming nor Henry could be seen as Snow returned to her task they had interrupted which seemed to be making their lunch. It took her seconds however to recognise the large stomping noise coming down the stairs but before she could warn Emma, Henry had collided with his other mother sending them both sideward into one of the dining chairs. The chair's scrape along the ground seemed to echo in the small apartment. Regina fought the urge to reprimand the teen but seeing Snow smiling at the duo reminded her it truly didn't matter.
"Whoa kid" Emma said sounded slightly as if the wind had been knocked out of her by the teen who had his arms wrapped around her. It still shocked her to see that Henry was the same size as both of his mothers. It shocked her still to see Henry almost engulf Emma in his hug. "You just saw me last night" Emma continued with a tone of disbelief as she righted them both into a proper standing position.
"Hi Mom" Henry said his tone one of cheer. It was clear he was happy to have his family back around him again. Her son however did not wait for her response. "I wanna show you something" Henry said pulling on his other mother's arm. Emma rolled her eyes though even Regina could see her delight in their son's invitation as he included her in whatever he was doing.
"Okay" Emma said with a faux tone of annoyance which earned her an equally fake scowl from their son. Regina allowed the easy smile to form upon her face at her loved ones antics as the blonde was dragged by Henry up the small flight of stairs to the room she had once slept in. Regina couldn't help the memory of the night she and Emma had spent together in the room. It was a memory she'd cherish simply for the trust Emma had shown her that night. What had started as a relaxing night in turned into Emma sharing some stories from her past. Most were so Regina would know more about Emma, but some had been difficult to hear. The night had ended with Emma lying in her arms and it couldn't have been more perfect. It may have been that night as Emma slept at her side she realised she loved the sleeping blonde. It was the night that changed them both, forever.
Now the small bedroom mainly held Henry's overspill of belongings his grandparents had bought him…as if he needed another game console amongst other things. It was Henry's room when he slept here, and when he didn't it was Snow's sewing and craft room. When Regina had been Mayor she chose to unwind with gardening as her hobby, Snow had chosen sewing and crafts. It wouldn't have been the first time Henry had come home with a piece of homework he had done with pieces of birthday confetti embedded into his design. Belle who had taken over as Henry's teacher couldn't exactly complain if Henry's chosen way of expressing himself was not to her liking. Belle's predecessor and now Mayor of the town was Henry's Grandmother, her partner was Henry's paternal Grandfather; while the town's former Sheriff and Mayor were his mothers. Their family tree was peculiar, and Belle did not stand a chance.
"He's been up there pretty much since he got here last night" Snow said her voice seemed to be void of emotion. It was then Regina realised they had both been staring at the closed door their children had just gone through. She felt the rush of annoyance overpower her at the other woman's words. Could she not entertain a teenage boy without using video games?
Though she could see in the other woman's eyes and the lack of sleep that seemed to linger there. She had seen the smile she had plastered upon her face when Henry had bound into the room. Maybe it was for the best Henry had taken himself off to his room. Allowed the Charming parents grieve for what was coming. What they were going to lose. They'd already lost twenty eight years of their daughter's life. They had already lost so much. It was with a pang of guilt Regina simply nodded the other woman.
A noise from behind her made her turn and become face to face with Charming. He like his wife looked haggard. She could literally see the hours he had not slept etched into every line of his face. Of course Snow had told him of Emma's condition. There was no way if Henry confided in her sometime this huge she could keep it to herself. She would need to tell Emma.
It was with a slight smile that did not reach his eyes Charming put the bags in hands down. She could see their contents were from Granny's. Clearly Snow was under the impression she was feeding fifty people not five.
All those downstairs felt their eye flicker towards the door left ajar by their absent family members as a clear rumble of laughter could be heard and echoed around the silent apartment. Both from Emma and Henry. That was what this day was about. Not the time they were going to lose but the time they had left. The memories they could create with Emma while she was still with them. To cherish each and every moment and enjoy them. Not taking a single one for granted.
Regina realised in that moment how true that was. The fights, the laughter, the moments when she would look at Emma and the whole world would drift way. Each she had taken for granted. Each stupid fight did not matter anymore. It did not matter who left the milk out or didn't take out the trash. None of it matter, because they had each other. She refused to let the little things bother her anymore. She would let every precious moment count.
Both Henry and Emma came down the steps at a bound; Henry more than Emma. The camera Emma had brought him for Christmas was swinging haphazardly from his wrist. Emma gave her a small but reassuring smile that warmed her insides. Before Emma could make it from the bottom step Charming engulfed her into a hug that looked almost crushing, but it was a hug Emma returned almost immediately.
She watched as Charming placed a kiss upon Emma's head and wondered if the man knew he'd just kissed exactly where Emma's new scar was. She saw that Emma did however because she shot Regina sad grimace. Henry wasn't playing any attention to the adults around him but was instead trying, and succeeding in Snow's distraction to steal whatever she was putting in their sandwiches.
"Henry" Snow said in surprise noticing her grandson was devouring their sandwich filling. He didn't even look slightly ashamed of himself as grinned at her. "Do you like chicken Emma?" Snow asked through pursed lips waving a readymade sandwich in her direction.
"Er yeah" Emma replied somewhat awkwardly as she stepped down and away from her father. It took her moments to come and stand next to Regina. The former Queen felt her fingers tingle with the need to offer Emma a form of comfort. It might not be clear to the others in the room but she could see Emma was struggling slightly with the attention despite it being clear she wanted it.
She also had to resist the urge to explain to Snow things she had only ever changed with Regina. In the foster system there were some family which had the rule that you ate what you were given or you didn't eat. If someone asked if you liked something you said yes and ate it. It was something the blonde had confided in her the night in Emma's old bedroom. Emma did indeed like chicken but she couldn't help but wonder briefly if Emma still says yes out of reflex.
"Right we better get to this riding lesson …" Charming said sternly pulling Regina out of her contemplation. Henry wasted no time in rushing past her to grab his things. But glancing over at Emma she could see her looking at her father with a hint of what looked to be confusion and possibility worry.
"You okay Emma?" Snow asked clearly sensing the shift in the other woman just as she had. Though as she watched Emma's gaze flicker around the room she felt the rush of annoyance flood her system and tried with all her might not to scream at pixie haired woman for her lack of tact.
"Yeah … just not a huge horse fan" Emma answered uneasily.
"Horses are cool" Henry answered happily now carrying his riding gear and glared at his grandfather when Charming removed the small camera he had swinging from his wrist. That device was going to end up broken one of these days, she could sense it.
"They're just a little … big" the blonde replied sheepishly with a shrug of her shoulders.
"Oscar isn't … mom rides him. I ride Heidi she's about the same size but Gramps rides Rocket. He's huge" Henry explained excitedly, clearly eager to share something new with his birthmother. Emma on the other hand didn't look comforted by the flood of information. In fact she looked if possible more worried.
"You can't be scared of horses…" Henry scoffed slightly and Regina felt a rush of annoyance at her teenage son. It wasn't up to him if Emma was indeed scared of horses. It was quite understandable for someone to afraid of the animal if they had limited experiences with them. Something Emma clearly had having living mostly of her life in big cities.
"They're just big. I'm not scared of them" Emma bite back and Regina heard the defensiveness in her tone. Henry did not look perturbed by Emma's resistance.
"It's okay. I'll introduce you to Heidi if you want? She likes sugar cubes and mints" Henry explained his slightly mocking tone all but gone. It was obvious he didn't want to jeopardise the encounter. She was surprised to see Emma nod at the suggestion.
"Come on then…" Charming said now standing with one hand holding open the door. Regina tried her hardest not to look amused at Charming's clear annoyance at having to wait. They were already leaving later than was usual.
Emma and Regina followed Henry out of the building with the Charming duo following them. Henry it seemed wanted to ride with his grandparents, so it left Emma and Regina to travel alone. Once again silence descended around them. Emma's eyes seemed to stare out at the road, almost unblinkingly so, unconsciously worrying her bottom lip.
She couldn't help but wonder if Emma had been entirely truthful in her admission about the horse riding. There was something about her tense stance and deathly grip upon the steering wheel which suggested it was more than fear of horses. Could she ask? Or better yet should she ask?
"Charming only started his lessons about two months ago" Regina said breaking the silence. She saw Emma glance in her direction though the blonde gave no response. "It's been mainly trying to get Henry confident and getting Heidi to trust him. It's only recently he's been doing proper riding work" the former Mayor continued and couldn't help the surge of pride she felt at Henry's accomplishments. Despite Henry persistent begging to have riding lessons, it was clear in the early stages their son hadn't considered how much work it would entitle.
Emma seemed to nod in slow motion though the lip worrying did not lessen. "I just finally decided I needed to stop worrying and avoiding it. He wanted lessons and your father and I can give them to him. Snow helps sometimes too" Regina explained carefully noting the fair hands loosening their tight grip considerably upon the wheel. If it weren't for Emma, Regina doubted she would have never faced the feelings she felt over the stables. They still lingered sometimes but seeing the happiness upon her son's face made it worth it.
"Yeah?" was Emma's breathless reply and it was only then Regina realised Emma was fighting back tears. She wanted to do something; anything to make that tone go away. Their position in the car would have made it physically impossible to pull Emma into a hug she so desperately wanted to give. It would probably cause them to crash as well.
"Emma…" she whispered understandingly. It made sense. They'd made plans just as they had done for the last eight Sundays, and it was only now Emma was included. She would have been if she was here. She'd missed him start lessons. She'd missed Henry's first successful, unaided mount. She'd missed their son in his element as he followed his grandfather's instructions and there was nothing she could do change that. She really wished she could.
"It's fine" Emma answered back and Regina felt how fine it wasn't. She shivered as she felt a chill run down her spine. Nothing about any of this was fine.
"He's only really just started riding in the last few weeks you haven't missed much" Regina said in her most sincere reassuring voice, only to be startled by the bark of cracked laughter that fell from Emma's lips.
"No I haven't…" the blonde said with a tone of disbelief. It took a moment for Emma to glance over at her. To share that moment with her and Regina saw it. She saw the very thing that could cause them both to break. The reason she's trying so hard not to cry. Not for what she's missed but what she will never be a part of.
"Emma..." Regina breathes feeling the ever present lead weight bearing down upon her chest making it nearly impossible to draw breath. Emma flicks her hair out of her face and Regina sees the determination form upon her face in profile. She saw the blonde's jaw twitch with the strain being forced upon it as Emma clenched her teeth. There was nothing she could say. Nothing she could do because Emma's feelings were right. They could keep trying to deny it but they were true. They had to enjoy what they could while they could, but they were both allowed their moments of weakness and this was one of Emma's. She was thankful Emma trusted her enough to let her witness it.
"I am not afraid of horses" Emma said sternly though Regina could hear the quiver of emotion still lingering behind the words. She gave in easily and allowed Emma to change the subject if she wished.
"Okay" she replied easily.
"Maybe a little but don't tell Henry" Emma replied and saw the upturn of her lips as Emma looked over at her. It was with genuine affection she smiled back.
"Your secret is safe with me" Regina responded effortlessly and she heard Emma low chuckle before the noise died down to nothing. Only the sound of the engine could be heard though Regina watched as Emma's fingers gently drummed the steering wheel as she followed her father's car.
"Can I come to more of his lessons?" Emma asked though she was glad the question did not hold hesitation.
"Of course. You don't have to ask Emma" Regina reassured her, once again placing her hand in its rightful place upon Emma's leg. As she had become accustomed she felt the muscle beneath her hand quiver. Emma simply nodded in response. "Maybe we could teach you some riding skills" Regina suggested humorously, a feeling that soared at Emma's easy laughter.
"I'm good thank you. I'd rather keep my feet on the ground" Emma stated loudly as if she was putting an end to all thoughts or possibilities they would forcibly place her upon a saddle.
"You can ride with me if you'd like" the older woman suggested.
"What?" Emma asked glancing over at her with a look of bemusement.
"Oscar…if you want you can ride with me today" Regina clarified and could see Emma was considering the offer. "I promise to make sure you don't fall off" she added with a wink and felt her whole body tingle with the sound of Emma's gentle laughter.
"Are you sure he'll be okay with both of us" the other woman asked incredulously. Regina fought the oncoming eye roll. Horses were breed for more than riding around a small paddock, they would hold two women easily.
"He's a Moyle dear, not a Shetland pony" Regina retorted and saw instantly Emma didn't understand the joke. "Fine. Yes he will be fine with both of us" Regina explained kindly.
"Okay" Emma gulped. Though her smile suggested her nerves were minimum she did not want to make the other woman do something she didn't want to do.
"Really?" Regina asked carefully, trying as hard as she could to not sure the glee at the idea of sharing this with Emma. When she was younger the motions of Rocinante had always cleared her head as the horse galloped. It used to literally knock all thoughts and worries from her mind. While she knew she couldn't really ride with Emma just yet, the notion of it made her feel slightly giddy. The idea of sharing something she had once held so dear with someone else, with Emma made her feel content.
"Yeah… I trust you" Emma affirmed breathlessly and Regina didn't even try to fight the beaming smile that took hold of her lips. No more was said as they pull into the small area next to the stables. They parked up easily behind the Charmings' vehicle. Regina felt a moment of surprise when she felt Emma's tug upon her arm. It was then she realised Emma was beaming at her too and felt her heart skip a beat.
It was with an agonising slowness Emma moved forward to claim her lips. It was sweet unexpected kiss, and she couldn't help put pull Emma in closer. To pour all the support she had been unable to as they had driven. She felt Emma pull away but her calming breath still made her lips tingle as it danced across them. "Thank you" Emma murmured lightly.
"You're welcome, dear" Regina said as her breath caught in her throat at the look in Emma's eyes. They seemed to shimmer slightly and she saw the trust Emma had claimed to have in her reflecting back at her. She saw love and understanding. She moved forward slightly feeling Emma's lips brush against her own again and…
A loud knock made both women within the car jump. Turning Regina saw their son looking frustrated and scowling at them both. It was most defiantly an expression he had inherited from Emma. It was clear he was eager to have his birth mother meeting his horse. It was with a tickle of laughter Emma sighed dramatically pulling away; and exited the car with her purse swinging in her wake. It left Regina to watch her love and son walked arm in arm as she sighed just as deeply as Emma, knowing it wouldn't last forever, but she was determined to enjoy every moment.