Hey guys! I've got another update for you all, as you can see! This one's a bit of a calmer chapter in terms of angst and drama, so I hope you enjoy it! Let me know what you think ;)
It's midnight and Regina can't sleep. How can she, when she lies in a bed, surrounded and overwhelmed by the fragrance of the man who perpetually occupies her thoughts?
The harsh weather is what led the brunette to stay the night—well—that and the company, she must confess. Dinner was lovely, pleasant. It had almost a familial feel to it, all three gathered around the dinner table tucking in hungrily to plates of fresh spaghetti; though, of course, that's not something that either Regina or Robin would ever admit aloud. But all things considered, it was nice. It lead to one thing after another (dessert, and then a drink, and then a movie) as the hours ticked by, until Robin was suddenly declaring that Regina take the bed while he humbly sleeps on the couch—much to Reya's delight. And Regina simply found the offer hard to resist.
It doesn't take long for the house to fall silent with nothing but the crickets outside to serenade the night. The atmosphere is serene, tranquil. But after hours of tossing and turning, her head buried in a pillow that smells pleasantly of Robin, Regina reaches towards the nightstand and flicks the bedside light on. With a groan, she sits up, dragging both her hands down her face before running them through her hair. Another sigh and she's looking around the small master bedroom, wishing that she has her pad of paper and watercolors so that she could at least paint herself back to sleep.
Turning back towards the nightstand, Regina leans over and opens the top drawer, curious to see if Robin keeps any books or puzzles with which she could possibly occupy herself. But instead, she finds the storybook, Reya's storybook, nestled away amongst a handful of bits and bobs. It's so large that it practically takes up the entire space of the drawer itself. With her brow lightly furrowed, Regina reaches in and takes the book from its place. Closing the drawer, she settles it down on her lap. She lies back against the headboard, adjusting Robin's large t-shirt that falls over her small frame before gazing intently at the intricate writing. A New Adventure. She cannot deny that the title sounds epic, implying that something exciting is to happen. Regina inhales deeply through her nose, letting it out slowly as she feels that all too familiar anxiousness begin to bubble up from the depths of her chest and awaken the butterflies in her stomach. Last time she saw this book, she literally tossed it away in fear of finding out the truth that was manifested by one of the images appearing exactly like the one in her vision. It terrified her…it still does.
Sucking in her breath, Regina flips open the cover to reveal the very first chapter that opens with the iconic, "Once upon a time…" Another slow exhale, and she begins to read. She skims through the pages, taking in the words and their accompanying images. So many emotions occupy the painter's mind, turning her into a bundle of contradictions. She's intrigued but distant, in awe but indifferent, captivated but fearful. The more Regina thinks about it, the more overwhelmed she feels. But she pushes on, channeling that fear into reading more about the life of this so-called infamous Evil Queen.
Regina snorts aloud, shaking her head at the thought. It's just then that she catches a movement out of the corner of her eye and nearly jumps from her skin. "Shit, Robin!" she exclaims with a hiss as she abruptly slams the book closed. "How long were you there?"
Robin chuckles gently, stepping into the room. "Not long at all," he answers, heading towards the bed. Regina watches him with large eyes as he takes a seat on the edge closest to her and glances down towards the book in her lap. "I see you're reading the storybook," he remarks quietly.
"I am," Regina sighs, following his gaze to where her fingers nervously trace the cover's lettering.
"It's a good read, isn't it?" Robin prompts gently.
The brunette nods simply, continuing to trace the title over and over again, all the while eliciting a silence that falls between the two as they watch her finger swipe up and down and back and forth.
It's not until Robin speaks again that she stops this nervous habit. "Do you want to talk about it?" he asks softly, eyes raising to search hers.
Regina shakes her head, sighing once more. "I don't know…I…" She drops her gaze, closing her eyes. A small bitter laugh escapes her lips as she shakes her head again, slower this time. "A queen," she scoffs. She opens her eyes to look up at him; orbs shining in the dim light of the room. "Do you really think that I—that we—could be different people?"
"I don't know," Robin confesses with a deep sigh. He shakes his head. "Seems almost impossible, doesn't it?"
"Then why is she so intent on thinking so? I just—I don't understand it." Regina frowns incredulously. "Me? A queen? And what about this whole 'evil' thing? Do you think she thinks I'm just so eager to accept that I'm some queen, not just a queen, but one that's evil?"
"Well, she did say you were redeemed."
Regina snorts. She tilts her head at him hopelessly. "Robin, that's not the point." She takes a deep breath. "The point is that I'm not this powerful person she thinks I am." The brunette shakes her head. "Evil or not, I'm no queen. I'm the furthest thing from royalty. And about this journey of that all-powerful person who has literally ripped out hearts and killed thousands of people like in this book, the person who apparently was courageous enough to redeem herself from all of that…it makes my head spin." Regina closes her eyes. "I'm not that. I'm not any of that."
"Then who are you?" Robin asks gently.
"I'm just an artist, just another someone trying to climb to the top, trying to succeed in what I do best, like every other artist out there." Regina shrugs. "I'm simple. I'm nothing special."
At this, Robin frowns, shifting closer to her. "I don't believe that for one second," he states seriously, his blue eyes boring into hers. Regina bites her lip. "Regina, you are special. The art that you create is powerful enough that it touches anyone who simply looks at it. You have a gift, and it's like magic." The man shakes his head. "I remember when I brought Reya to your house. I remember stepping into your living room. Seeing your masterpieces all spread out propped up on the furniture or the couch or the floor...it was like stepping into a whole other world. The paintings you create are unlike anything I've ever seen. They're whimsical, mystical…really enchanting. And I'm not just saying that."
Regina sighs, shaking her head. "I don't even know half of the stuff I paint," she murmurs, "It all just feels like one big mess of…" She pauses. "Of, I don't know."
"But it all comes from you," Robin clarifies, "From your heart."
The brunette frowns, tilting her head slightly at him. "What are you trying to say?" she asks slowly.
"I'm saying that these paintings you make are magical. They look like they're from another world." Robin swallows. "They look like something that the Evil Queen would paint."
Regina stares at the fisherman with wide eyes, her heart beating slightly faster. She knows what he is implying, and it chills her to think that he maybe is right. She always knew her subconscious had a lot to do with the paintings she creates.
"Just something to think about," Robin says gently. "I'm not saying that I completely accept this alter ego, personality, idea of Reya's. But, the evidence and the coincidences are becoming far too freakishly real."
"Like this?" Regina shakes her head, opening the book once more. She flips through the pages until she finds that one special page, the page that illustrates her vision. Angling the book between the two so that both can see, she watches as Robin's sapphire eyes glance over the image once more; his brows furrowed.
"This is the image that made you go all…Evil Queen on us. Isn't it?"
The brunette rolls her eyes at Robin's failed attempt at lightening the mood. "The very same page from a vision that came to me—" Regina sucks in her breath, reaching over to take Robin's right wrist and hold it in her hands, "—when I touched this tattoo."
At this, Robin's eyes widen as he puts two and two together. "So that's why you looked so terrified," he murmurs, "And that's why, when I asked you if you were okay, you brushed it off so quickly. And then when you saw the book…"
Regina nods quietly. "You're right. This fantasy has become too real. And now I don't even know what to think." She shakes her head.
"The same can be said for me," Robin mutters, letting out a humorless chuckle, "I mean, seeing that picture of the same tattoo that is on my wrist is mind-bottling. Even these drawn images are strikingly similar to real life." He glances up from the page to look into Regina's wide chocolate eyes. "I'd recognize those eyes anywhere, even if they were simply drawn on the page."
Regina flushes slightly, lowering her gaze as she tucks a loose strand of hair behind her ear nervously; a slight smile upon her lips. Robin smiles gently back at her, reaching forward to tenderly cup her cheek with his free hand; his other remaining tightly grasped in her hands. The brunette can't help but let out a sigh as she leans automatically into his touch, her eyes fluttering closed. She can't help the fact that his touch stirs something unnamed in her soul, something familiar. It feels like home.
A slight gasp parts her lips as Regina suddenly feels his soft lips against hers; eyes remaining closed. It doesn't take her any time at all to melt into such a gentle, compassionate kiss. She revels in the feel of him, his taste, the way his hand reaches up from her cheek and comb through her hair ever so softly. She can't deny that he gives her something she has never, ever, had before. He gives her hope.
"Robin, where is the mobile? I just had it a few minutes ago!" Regina exclaims, wandering about the vast empty space that is soon to become filled with all things catering to that special little someone who's just about ready to make an appearance in the couple's lives. The very pregnant brunette queen watches anxiously as servants flit about the area, working tirelessly to set up furniture, lighting fixtures, decorations, toys, chests, the crib—all those things necessary to make up the perfect nursery. Although there is no particular theme to this nursery, Regina and Robin had worked endlessly to make sure that the room is filled with every luxury a babe could ever want, every toy carved of the finest wood—only the best for little Reya.
"Oh here it is," Regina says, picking up the delicate glass feather mobile from on top of an unopened crate and suspending it up over where the crib is to be set.
"No! Not over there!" she suddenly calls to a servant who places a chest full of toys in the corner of the room. "Put that under the window. The mirror goes there."
Regina glances towards the balcony, stopping for a moment to take in the spectacular view. They've chosen the best room in the whole castle, one that overlooks the forest and the mountains in the distance. The brunette queen smiles at the image that crosses her mind of her daughter skipping out onto the balcony, looking happily over the lush kingdom of green, the gentle wind in her hair. It's perfect. As perfect as perfect can be.
"No, no! Over here!" Regina gestures towards another wide-eyed servant who hustles to carry the lamp over to its correct place in the room.
Robin laughs aloud, shaking his head fondly as he gazes towards his wife. He loves the way his queen looks like this: all domestic in her maternity gown, feet bare, hair let loose in waves around her shoulders. She's positively glowing. Robin smirks widely as he approaches her, drawing her slightly bigger form into his arms; her swollen stomach pressed between the both of them.
"Perhaps you should take a break, love," the thief says, resting his chin atop her head. He loves how he can simply do this when she is barefoot and far shorter than her usual height in killer high heels. "Sit down, rest your back."
"But the nursery's not finished yet," Regina protests, "There's still lots more work to be done."
"Do you want me just to finish it up with magic?" Robin asks, pulling back to gaze at her with his brow lifted. "It'll be a lot faster."
Regina shakes her head. "No. I want to do this the proper, traditional way," she says, "No magic."
Robin sighs. "Fine," he replies, "But if it gets too much, tell me and we can have this finished quicker."
"You make it sound like I have some kind of terrible illness," Regina says with a slight pout—though she'd never admit it. "I'm not that fragile. I'm only pregnant, dear."
The thief chuckles lightly. "I know, my love," he replies, "I'm just looking out for you."
"I know," Regina sighs, smiling gently. "But don't worry. I can do this."
"I'm sure you can."
The brunette's smile turns slightly watery as she gazes into the sparkling blue eyes of her husband; the glow of pregnancy obviously affecting him as well. With a shake of her head, she reaches forward and takes his right hand, placing it over hers, which rests over her bulging stomach.
"I can't believe the time has come so soon," she whispers excitedly. She shakes her head in disbelief. "I can't believe this is happening. We're actually going to have a child."
Robin grins at her words, squeezing her hand firmly in his own delight. "Regina, I couldn't be happier," he whispers, "For you, for me. For us." He shakes his head. "Our dream has come true. We have the final piece of our happy ending."
Regina shakes her head once more, leaning up to press her lips firmly to his in a passionate kiss. She smiles against his lips, a small tear of joy slipping between their connected cheeks. "Thank you, Robin," she whispers.
"No, Regina," Robin murmurs in reply, "Thank you."
Regina wakes nestled comfortably, surrounded by a sturdy pair of arms and pressed against a firm chest. Keeping her eyes closed, she sighs contentedly, a small smile crossing her lips.
"Good morning," Robin greets, and Regina opens her eyes to meet a pair of sparkling blue orbs. Her soft smile widens.
"Good morning, Robin," Regina replies, biting her lower lip.
"Sleep well?" the fisherman asks, gently tracing the brunette's cheek with his thumb.
"Mmm," she hums contently, eyes fluttering closed as she yawns aloud. "Yup. Best sleep I've had in ages," she admits.
Robin grins at the news, leaning forward to capture her lips in a soft kiss, to which Regina delightfully deepens ever so slightly before pulling back. She looks again into his eyes, shaking her head slowly.
"What have you done to me?" she whispers softly, reaching her hand up to caress gently at the man's light beard. The brunette finds she simply cannot get enough of the feeling of his stubble scraping gently beneath her fingertips.
Robin shrugs, smiling happily back at her. "Hopefully the same thing you've done to me," he answers, covering her hand with his on his cheek. "You've opened up my heart."
Regina lowers her gaze, a look of uncertainty sweeping fleetingly across her features.
"Hey," Robin soothes gently, tipping her chin back up to meet his eyes. "It's okay," he comforts in a whisper.
Regina sighs, her eyes falling closed for a moment as she forces the negativity down underneath the newfound warmth she's felt for the man beside her. Opening her eyes, she glances down at the lion tattoo on the inside of the hand that gently holds her chin. Lifting her own hand, she takes his wrist, her fingers gently smoothing over the emboldened crest.
"You know this can't happen again," she murmurs, and Robin knows exactly to what she is alluding.
"I know," he sighs, lowering his gaze. "It was…sinful."
Regina shakes her head; her turn now to lift his chin with her finger. "But I don't regret what happened," she confesses quietly, taking her lower lip between her teeth.
At this, Robin's brows pull together. "You don't?" he breathes almost incredulously.
Regina nods. "I don't," she replies, shaking her head. "It's just…"
"I know," Robin murmurs with another sigh, "I know you have to go back to him."
"I do…care—for you, I mean," Regina stumbles slightly. "It's just…you know."
Robin nods. "I do," he says, "And I understand. I respect that."
Regina gazes into his eyes, her eyes glistening softly. "Thank you," she whispers.
Robin closes his eyes, ignoring the slight pain in his heart as he shifts over and presses his forehead to hers. "No, Regina," he murmurs, "Thank you."
The Rolling Stones blasts through the stereo in Robin's kitchen as Regina flits about, cleaning up what's left of the floury mess all three of them made while making pancakes. After going through Robin's collection, the brunette has come to find that the fisherman has quite the eclectic taste. So as "Beast of Burden" plays on, she is humming along with the music and bouncing to the beat, all the while washing dishes and wiping down the table and countertops; happy to be in her own little world even if it is for a few moments whilst Robin and Reya are off elsewhere. When "Gimme Shelter" comes on, Regina is turning up the volume even louder. She can't help but enjoy this, being all domestic in Robin's kitchen.
And as for the man himself, well, he simply stands leaning against the doorframe, unbeknownst to Regina, grinning like a fool as he watches the brunette dance about the kitchen.
War, children, it's just a shot away
It's just a shot away
Robin chuckles to himself, placing a finger to cover his lips as he hears the dulcet tones of Regina's singing mix in with the vocals of the song. He's not above watching the brunette's rear slide smoothly under his large t-shirt. The man chuckles at the look Reya gave her earlier that morning. "You're wearing his shirt?" she had asked a blushing Regina. Robin shakes his head, turning his attention back towards said brunette who is still dancing lost in the music before him.
Just then, an idea comes to him, a sort of way in which he can get his message across. In a few large strides, Robin is approaching the stereo (Regina still unsuspecting) and quickly changes the song to a song that he believes is quite apt for this certain time and situation. Immediately, the atmosphere turns from loud and wild to something softer and more emotive as the tune of "Keys to Your Love" now fills the air.
With a smirk, Robin watches Regina as she halts mid-stride and whirls around to face him, her eyes wide with both surprise and confusion. She frowns, tilting her head curiously.
"What are you doing?" Regina questions.
Robin smirks slightly, stepping towards her and taking her hand. "I want to dance," he says pulling the brunette to himself. Much to his delight, she doesn't resist.
"Oh," Regina breathes, her other hand coming up to rest on his shoulder, "Okay."
Robin smiles happily, beginning to sway back and forth with Regina in his arms. They are silent as they take in each other's eyes, all the while listening to the passionate lyrics of the song.
No matter where I go baby, no matter what I do
I spend my whole life honey, just thinking of you
Yeah it don't seem to matter, who's right and who's wrong
I want to tell you how I feel now, in the words of this song
A small smile inevitably spreads across Regina's lips as she catches quickly onto what Robin is trying to do. She shakes her head softly, letting go of his hand and shoulder to wrap both her arms around his neck, pulling him even closer into a position that is more intimate. She sighs softly as she feels both his hands come to rest gently on her hips as they continue to sway in time to the rhythm; simply soaking in every word.
Want to baby put a spell on you
There ain't nothing that you're going to do
She lies her head gently down on his chest.
I've got the keys to your love
I've got the secret of your heart
No matter where you I go baby honey
We're not too far apart
Reya wanders back towards the kitchen, wondering what the commotion is as she has heard the muffled voices above the blasted music, the change in music. And the sight she is met with is enough to have her almost jump with joy. For there, in the center of the kitchen, sways both her cursed parents, wrapped up and lost in each other's arms. Reya grins at the two of them, watching silently from the doorway at the unsuspecting couple. She catches on to a few of the lyrics of the current song playing and her heart flutters at the prospect that this certainly is not a coincidence. They're both listening to this song for a reason. Now, more than ever, Reya feels that the ending of the curse is fast approaching. If only her parents will be able to see and admit their feelings for one another, Regina specifically, Reya really believes the curse will soon be broken. And she couldn't be happier.
"ROBIN!" The thief comes running full tilt into the bedroom, his heart beating out of his chest. Widened and desperate eyes take in the features of his beautiful pregnant queen distorted by the pain and agony of her very first contraction.
"The baby!" Regina exclaims, doubling over, her hand cupping her massive bulge. "It's coming..."
Immediately, Robin rushes to her aid, wrapping his hands firmly around slim shoulders to steady her. In one swift motion, Robin lifts her into his arms and carries Regina from her place at the vanity over to the bed, all the while calling desperately for the midwife. He lies his brunette queen down just as her second contraction hits and she cries out in pain. The sound of Regina's scream sends a chill down Robin's spine, but he forces the feeling aside in order to care for his wife.
In no time, the midwife has arrived, administering her care and support through this painful process. By the first hour, Robin is already sweating. Contractions come at intervals, and with each scream escaping from Regina's lips, the thief's heart is squeezing more and more. His soul reaches out to his wife who is in pain as she works to bring forth their child into the world. He would do anything to lessen it, to help her through this process. Robin would even use magic. But even he knows that using magic when both Regina and the baby are in such a fragile state is not a good idea. So all he can do is wait by her side, her hand tightly clutching his, ride out each contraction alongside, and offer her any support and comfort he can.
Three more hours pass and the time between contractions lessens. And after the fifth hour, the midwife is gently coaxing Regina to start pushing; the queen having dilated enough to begin the birthing process. Robin watches with his heart in his throat as his wife screams aloud, her teeth tightly clenched together. With wide eyes, his vision is trained on the midwife as she prepares for the baby's arrival. One more push and she is announcing that she sees the baby's head. One last push and Robin and Regina's beautiful baby girl is slipping through and into the world, the princess announcing her presence with a mighty cry.
Robin gazes wide eyed as Regina collapses back against the pillows, her skin and hair damp with sweat. "Regina," he whispers, leaning up to kiss her forehead, "You did it, my love."
He turns back to the midwife as she cuts the cord and wraps the babe in a soft pink blanket before handing over the bundle to Regina with a bright smile on her lips.
"Congratulations, Your Majesties, your healthy baby girl."
Robin gazes lovingly at his wife as she holds their child closely to her bosom. Tears of happiness run down her cheeks as she rejoices in finally bearing a child of her own. Leaning down, Regina presses a soft kiss to the babe's forehead, watching it stir slightly in her arms in response.
It is then that she is offering Robin the little bundle of joy. A lump forms in the thief's throat as he holds his baby daughter for the first time, tears of joy welling up in his eyes. As he gazes down into her small, sweet, scrunched up features, he knows in his heart that whatever price he has still to pay for this miracle, he will do so willingly. No moment will ever compare to this. Suddenly, Robin is overcome with the feeling of warmth, of fulfillment, that his dreams of finally having that perfect family have come true.
Regina trudges up the steps to her home before fishing out her key and unlocking the door. As she steps inside, she can't help the empty feeling of which she is suddenly overcome. It's different being here now, compared to being over at Robin's. His place just felt more…more like home. Shaking her head, Regina shakes away the thought and heads into the living room, to the stereo, where she cranks up MVY Radio to drown out the quietness of her house. With a sigh, the brunette shrugs off her jacket and throws her bag of new painting supplies (that she felt like she had bought ages ago, not just yesterday) down beside her easel.
She leaves the room and wanders down the hallway to go shower and change. Upon stepping into her bedroom she feels that same, empty, lonely, feeling that she can't help but inevitably feel. After changing out of her clothes from yesterday, Regina runs a hot shower in hopes of washing away any unpleasant feelings. But it's difficult. The only thing that lifts her spirits is when her phone vibrates, from where she threw it onto the bed, with a message from Robin, (the pair having finally exchanged phone numbers).
Lovely time this morning. I really enjoy your company, Regina…and your dancing ;)
At this, Regina laughs, shaking her head. She can't help but be amused at the fact that although the man understands that they can't be doing any of this, he simply can't resist. And for some reason, she likes it.
Thank you, Robin. So do I enjoy yours. Now stop flirting! ;)
Regina chuckles again, tossing her phone down once more. But just as she does, the screen lights up with yet another text.
I will if you will ;)
She shakes her head.
I don't flirt. Bye, Robin.
Regina smirks, continuing to stare at her phone, against her better judgement to just leave it be.
If you say so, milady. Goodbye. I hope you finish your painting all right :)
She smiles softly, typing out a quick thanks before moving to get changed into a pair of ripped jeans and an old tank top. She waltzes back into her living room, feeling much lighter than when she first arrived, and settles herself down at her easel. Pulling out the contents of her shopping bag, Regina begins right away with her new paint; a new sense of eagerness and excitement about finishing her masterpiece settling in and giving her enough motivation to do just that.
By the time four o'clock rolls around, Regina dunks her paintbrush into a can of water and sits back as a loud sigh escapes her lips. She has finished. In front of her lies her masterpiece of all masterpieces: a beautiful, whimsical rendition of Aquinnah's clay cliffs. It is truly her finest work, as she has never felt more proud.
A wide grin spreads across Regina's features as she takes the time to simply admire it. Robin would certainly be impressed. In fact, perhaps she will send him a short text. Nothing special. They are still friends. Still smiling widely, the brunette fetches her phone and opens Robin's message tab.
I finished my painting, if you want to know.
She doesn't have to wait long for a reply.
Really? May I see? Send me a pic?
Regina laughs, shaking her head fondly at the man's obvious enthusiasm. Perhaps she'll have a little fun with this.
I don't know. I may want it to be a surprise ;)
She bites her lip and waits patiently for a reply.
Oh really? Is it now? So you'll have to make me wait just like everybody else.
Regina raises her brow.
Who said you qualify for special treatment, fisherman? I certainly never did.
Ouch! I am wounded!
Regina laughs aloud again at his response, having far too much fun with this than she should.
Oh, stop it! What is it with you men and your fragile egos?
Regina shakes her head, chuckling softly.
We do have feelings, you know ;)
She lifts her brows.
Feelings? Like what?
I don't know. Like how we like our fish prepared. Or like a certain woman we like…like feelings that the song we danced to spoke of.
At this, Regina feels her cheeks beginning to heat. And again, her lower lip slips between her teeth and she chews it anxiously, biting down on a smile.
Robin…
What?
I'm warning you…
Regina shakes her head endearingly.
Regina, it's true.
Suddenly, her phone vibrates again, but with a notification not pertaining to her current conversation. Regina sighs, pulling herself from the fantasy of her and Robin's banter. This text is from Steve.
Hey, baby. What do you say, burgers by the beach at sunset? Just like old times?
I suppose this situation with Robin and Regina is like a bit of a dance, lot of going backward and forward...two steps forward, one step back, but I promise you, it will all be worth it!
Thank you guys so much for coming by! Thank you for all of your wonderful reviews, your follows, everything you've done to support this fic even if it's just by simply reading. I'm up to 130 followers, the most I've ever had on a fic in just 15 chapters, it's amazing! Lots of love to you all!
That being said, I will have an update soon, stay warm and stay tuned!