Wedding Bells
Regina's heels clicked along the wooden floors as she hurried to the staircase. She brought her cellphone to her ear as it rang. "Hello," Robin said, his voice calming her.
"How goes it over at the groom's place?" she asked.
He paused before sighing. "It could be better. Right now, Lance and I are the soberest ones here. David is almost there. We've been supplying him with sausage, eggs and coffee. He should be fine by the time he's at the altar. It's Eric and Kris we're worried about."
She sighed. "At least David has you and Lance."
"Yeah," he replied. "How is it over there at the bride's?"
"Ruby and I are the only ones not crying over here. Well, Leo isn't either. I'm going to enlist him to help curb the tears so we can get Mary Margaret ready and on her way to the church."
Robin hummed. "Sounds like we both have our work cut out for us. Good luck, love."
"Same to you," she said. "See you at the church."
They hung up as Regina finally found Leopold Blanchard in the den. He was sitting in his armchair, watching a baseball game in his tuxedo. She knocked on the wall to get his attention. "Leo, I need your help. If we don't do something, your upper floor is going to flood."
Leopold sighed, turning off his TV. "I knew this was going to happen. Who do you need me to take care of?"
"Eva," Regina said. "Ruby is handling Anna and Ariel. Once they are all out of the room, I think I can calm Mary Margaret down."
"Sounds like a good plan." Leopold turned off the TV and stood. He gave her a nod, following Regina out of the room.
They rushed upstairs, where Ruby had managed to get Anna to stop crying. She sat in a corner, compact in hand as she fixed her makeup. Ruby, meanwhile, was hauling Ariel to her feet and dragging her to the bathroom. "We're going to calm down now, okay?" she told the matron of honor.
Hiccupping, Ariel nodded and followed Ruby out of the room. Regina sighed in relief as did the photographer, one of Tink's assistants named Nova. She was a meek brunette who tended to hide in the corner. Regina didn't care as she stayed out of their way. It was one less thing to worry about with everything she had to worry about.
One hysterical woman down, one about to be calmed and two more were left to go. Eva had her arms wrapped around her daughter as Mary Margaret sobbed into the woman's silver gown. Her dark black hair bobbed with her own sobs despite being pinned into a brained bun. Regina stepped aside to let Leopold enter and he hurried to his wife's side. Gently helping her up, he spoke in a soft tone. "Come on, Eva. Let's let the girls finish getting ready. We'll go downstairs."
Eva nodded and let her husband escort her from the room. Regina took her place next to Mary Margaret, dabbing the bride's eyes with a tissue. "Okay, we need you to stop crying because we can't call the makeup artist back. So we need to keep this beautiful look intact until you're down the aisle."
"Right, right," Mary Margaret nodded, taking the tissue from Regina's hands. "Thank you, Regina. You're a good friend."
"You mean I'm a taskmaster."
The bride chuckled. "You're both. And I clearly need both today."
Ariel emerged from the bathroom, no longer crying and with a determined look on her face. She walked over to Regina and Mary Margaret, clapping her hands. "Okay, let's get the bride into her beautiful gown!"
Ruby and Anna brought over the strapless ball gown with a sweetheart neckline. The skirt was free of embellishment but the bodice had a floral design as well as little rhinestones sewn into it. It looked like something out of fairy tale and was perfect for Mary Margaret.
Once she was tied into the dress, Regina and Ruby situated her jewel-encrusted tiara amongst her short brown locks. Anna attached the long lace veil and guided it as it fell to the floor. "You look beautiful," Ariel told the bride.
"You do," Eva said, entering the room again. She no longer was crying and had fixed her own makeup. "There's just a few things to complete your look."
She set down a jewelry box and pulled a few pieces out. As Nova flitted about, snapping pictures, Eva placed tear drop pearl earrings in her daughter's ears and clasped a large diamond necklace around Mary Margaret's neck. "There," she said. "Perfect."
"The limo is here," Leopold said, entering the room. His eyes misted over as he took in Mary Margaret. "My little girl…"
"Oh no. No, you do not start crying on me. Because you'll set everyone off again and we'll never make it!" Regina admonished him.
Leo chuckled along with the others. "Good point. Let's all head to the limo. Bridesmaids first."
"Right," Ariel said, taking charge. She shooed them all downstairs, everyone holding up their baby pink chiffon Grecian dresses as they hurried to the limo. They had left their bouquets and clutches down by the door, so they just grabbed them as they rushed past.
Nova darted past them, getting pictures of everyone as they climbed into the limo. She pulled Regina over, though, before she climbed in. "I'm going to head to the church. I'll see you there," she said.
"Okay. Tell Tink we're on our way," Regina replied. She climbed in, taking the seat next to Ruby before pulling out her phone to call Robin again.
"All is well. We just arrived at the church. David is fine while I'm pretty sure we can get Kris and Eric to at least walk a straight line," he said once he picked up. "And how are things on your end?"
She smiled as Eva and Leopold helped Mary Margaret in. "We're almost all in the limo and will be on our way in a few minutes. See you soon."
"Can't wait, lovely." Robin said his goodbyes and hung up.
Regina tucked her phone away again and looked up to find her cousin smirking at her. Scowling, she asked: "What?"
"Can you and Robin go at least an hour without talking to each other?" Ruby asked.
Her scowled deepened. "Very funny, Ruby."
"I'm being serious," she replied. "You've called him twice so far. What do you two do on normal days? What's the longest you've ever gone without communicating in some manner?"
"Three days but we were fighting."
"Okay. And when you're not fighting?"
Mary Margaret chuckled. "Leave her alone, Ruby. She and Robin are a sweet couple. He's exactly what she deserves."
"Oh, I agree. Doesn't mean I can't rib her about it. She's the closest thing I have to a sister."
"Can we stop talking like I'm not in the limo?" Regina huffed. "Robin and I have good communication. And that's all that matters."
Eva smiled. "You two certainly do seem happy. And he seems like a great guy, Regina. I'm sure we'll be going to your wedding next."
Regina smiled, looking down at her bouquet. She and Robin had been talking about marriage and their future more since their trip to England almost a month prior. They had gotten his grandparents' blessing and she knew Robin would next seek her parents'. Now the only question that remained was when he was going to pop the question.
"Ahh, here we are," Leo said as the limo came to a stop. He patted his daughter's hand. "In an hour you will be Mrs. David Nolan. Are you ready?"
"As ready as I'll ever be. Let's go." Mary Margaret clutched her bouquet tighter and motioned toward the door.
Regina led the bridesmaids out of the limo, feeling the warm April sun against her face. A warm breeze caused their skirts to billow out and they all pitched in to help Mary Margaret out. Regina held Ariel's bouquet as she took a firm hold of the veil to keep it from flying in every direction possible. Together, the small group made it up the few stone steps and into a room at the back of the church.
Eva and Leopold tended to Mary Margaret as the bridesmaids went to find their escorts. Regina stopped short when she saw Robin leaning against one of the columns in the church, dressed in his tuxedo with a red cummerbund and rose boutonniere. He had opted not to gel his hair, leaving it its natural golden color. One piece fell into his eye and she brushed it back.
"Hey there, beautiful," he said, giving her a warm smile before kissing her cheek. "Sorry. I didn't want to smudge your lipstick yet."
She smiled, cupping his cheek. "Thank you for being so considerate. And can I say, you look very handsome."
"Imagine how I'll look at our wedding then." He pulled her close.
Regina curled against him. "When will that be?"
"Just be patient, lovely." Robin kissed the top of her head.
"Is she okay? Is something wrong?" Ariel flitted over to them, worry lines in her forehead.
Regina lifted her head. "I'm fine, you twit. Can't I hug my boyfriend?"
"Nothing can go wrong. Not today," Ariel replied, hurrying off.
She sighed and Robin rubbed her arms. "Be nice," he told her.
"Being nice right now is not killing her. She's working my last nerve, Robin. First she was a sobbing mess and now she's trying to boss me around?"
"It's almost over. Just smile and remember you're doing this for Mary Margaret and David, our friends."
Regina took a deep breath and smiled. "I am so going to get her back for this at our wedding. Mark my words."
He chuckled, holding his arm out to her. "Milady?"
She took it and fell into their proper place in the procession. Eva and Ruth, David's mother, were at the head, being escorted by David's captain. The man was dressed in full uniform and was a sight to behold in his navy blues. As the music started, the three headed down the aisle together.
Kris and Anna were next, smiling as Tink and Nova took pictures from either side of the church. Ruby glanced over her shoulder, winking at Regina before she and Eric headed down the aisle after them. With a deep breath, Regina and Robin moved together as they headed toward the altar.
Her heart sped up with each step, as if they were the ones getting married. Excitement built inside her and she had to clamp down on it. Mary Margaret and David were getting married. She and Robin would have their turn soon enough.
They reached the altar and parted. Regina smiled at David as she took her spot. She noticed his hands were shaking and Lance often had to pat his shoulder as they waited for Mary Margaret's entrance. He had nothing to be nervous about, Regina believed. If anyone could make it, she knew David and Mary Margaret would.
Ariel took her place at the altar and the music changed. The organs blared the start of the wedding march and the congregation rose to their feet, all eager to see the bride glide down the aisle on her father's arm. Leo and Eva had arranged her veil so that it covered her face, but Regina could see Mary Margaret's smile even at the other end of the aisle. She kept her eyes focused on David and Regina glanced over to find the groom wiping some tears from his eyes.
Leopold lifted the veil and kissed his daughter's cheek. He whispered something to her before turning to David. They shook hands as Leo said: "Take care of her."
"Of course, sir," he replied before taking Mary Margaret's hand. He led her up to the minister, who smiled as he opened his book to begin the ceremony.
Regina found herself drifting during the readings. She wondered what type of ceremony she and Robin would have. He had mentioned wanting to get married in his own backyard but neither had one. Perhaps the park then, she guessed. There was a beautiful gazebo Mary Margaret and David were going to use for photographs after their ceremony. It could hold her own wedding ceremony, Regina figured.
She imagined walked down the aisle set up between white folding chairs with tulle draped at the ends of each row, white roses attached to last chair. Robin stood in the gazebo with a justice of the peace, dressed in a tuxedo with John, Will and David at his side. Ruby, Kathryn and Mary Margaret were smiling as they waited for her. Soft violins played and everything was perfect…
"Mary Margaret and David have written their own vows and would like to read them now," the minister said, interrupting her fantasy. "I'll start with you, David."
David nodded, taking a deep breath. "When I became a cop, I expected to serve and protect. Maybe lock up a few perps, chase a few bad guys and help a few little old ladies across the street. I didn't expect to help a beautiful brunette change a flat tire. Nor did I expect her to come to my precinct with a fruit basket to thank me. Though the guys ribbed me, Lance here pushed me after you and told me not to come back until I had a date with you. And I really owe him for that.
"I knew I loved you the moment we went to the flea market and I saw you trying on those cheap rings. You held one up and asked for my opinion. In that moment, I saw you wearing a ring I gave you and spending the rest of our lives together. And so here we are.
"Mary Margaret, I promise to love you forever and a day. I promise to be true to you, to cherish every moment we have together. I promise to never go to bed angry and to do my share of the housework so it doesn't overburden you. I promise to surprise you every so often and to not let too long go without me telling you how amazing and special you are," David finished, his voice tight.
Regina smiled. It was romantic and schmaltzy, but it fit David. She couldn't even be her usual cynical self about it and instead prayed Mary Margaret wasn't crying. It wouldn't do for the pictures.
When Mary Margaret spoke, though, her voice was even and Regina was proud of her. "David," she began, "I've always been a romantic. My parents would read fairy tales to me and I always wanted a love like the princess in those stories. As I grew up, I realized love was different and that I wouldn't find a prince charming. But then I did.
"I love that you're kind-hearted, compassionate with a strong sense of right and wrong. Regina may call you Dudley Do-Right but she says it with admiration. And that's an impressive feat. It fills me with pride every time I hear about you doing something to make the city safer or someone's day better. I want to spend the rest of my life feeling that way.
"So I promise to love you and to try not to worry too much about you, but I probably will anyway. I promise to be patient and understanding when work goes late. But most of all, I promise to be your friend and partner at home," she vowed.
The minister turned the page and began to read the vows printed in his book. Regina listened as the two pledged themselves to each other for the rest of their life before they exchanged rings. Smiling, the minister announced: "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride, David."
David pulled Mary Margaret close and pressed a chaste but sweet kiss to her lips. Regina applauded with the rest of the guests, clapping as best she could while holding her bouquet. Just past the happy couple, she met Robin's eyes and he gave her a half-smirk that sent her heart fluttering.
When the couple broke apart, there were a few more prayers and statements before the organ was blaring triumphantly. Mary Margaret and David headed back down the aisle as everyone cheered again. Regina took Robin's arm and they followed Ariel and Lance, pausing so Tink could get a picture of them.
She let them pass and Robin dropped his arm to take Regina's hand. He brought their joint hands up to kiss them. "I love you."
"I love you too," she said back. "But this isn't our wedding. We're just in the bridal party."
"I didn't say that. But hearing David's and Mary Margaret's vows, I was just reminded of how much I love you." He pulled her into a hug once they were in the back.
Ruby groaned as she joined them. "Please. As much as I love seeing you two together, I'm already on romance overload. Can you tone it down just for today? For me?"
"For you, Ruby," Robin said, "no. And just for that, I'm going to turn it up to eleven."
She gaped at him before rolling her eyes. "You two are a match made in heaven. I'm going to go find the other singles."
Once she was gone, Regina leaned against him. "You like teasing her, don't you?"
"Yeah. She's like the sister I never had."
"I feel the same," Regina said before tugging on his hand. "We can be mushy later. Now, we need to greet the guests."
The wedding party left the church, rushing down the stairs ahead of the bride and groom. "They're coming!" Ariel instructed the other guests. "Get your bubbles ready!"
Robin handed a small bottle to Regina as they found spots by her parents. Cora pulled out the wand and studied it. "I thought you said Mary Margaret was going to toss birdseed."
"She was," Robin replied. "David talked her out of it. Something about local ordinances or something. That's why they switched to bubbles."
"It does have no clean up," Henry said, dipping his wand a few times.
Mary Margaret and David burst out of the church and everyone cheered before bubbles filled the air. Some of the children started to dart about to pop them, their parents trying to keep them out of the way of the couple as they rushed down the stairs to one of the waiting limos.
"We're getting ready to head to the park for pictures," Ruby said, approaching them. She smiled at Regina's parents. "Aunt Cora, Uncle Henry."
"Ruby, dear. You look absolutely beautiful," Henry said, hugging his niece. He then winked at her. "I can't wait to see what you wear when your cousin marries Robin."
"Me too. I hope it's nothing too horrendous." Ruby leaned against him, grinning at Robin and Regina.
Cora shook her head. "You leave the two of them alone. They'll get engaged on their own time. No one else's."
"Thanks, Mom," Regina said, kissing her cheek. "We'll see you at the reception. Come on, Ruby."
The entire wedding party climbed into their own limo and made themselves comfortable inside. Anna studied her fiancé before gasping. "You're hungover, aren't you?"
"Maybe," he admitted with a grimace. "But so is Eric!"
Ariel gasped and glared at her husband. "I thought you looked off. But I thought it was just a late night."
Lance made a face and Ruby's mouth fell open. "Okay, what type of night did we miss and does Robin need to confess anything to my cousin?"
"Robin was the responsible one," Lance said. "He stopped drinking way earlier than us, convinced me to do the same and then we took care of those two this morning. Which Regina knows since she called him to check up on us."
"True," Ruby said. "So no big secret. Darn. But did you all just spend last night getting completely wasted?"
The men looked at each other before nodding. "Pretty much," Lance said. "What else would we be doing?"
"Sleeping and not drinking," Ariel snapped, scolding her husband. Eric winced before apologizing.
Regina leaned against Robin and shook her head. "Ariel, it's okay. They got David to the church and made it down the aisle. No harm, no foul."
"Ooh, Regina's chill today. I like the effect you have on her, Robin," Ruby said, nudging him.
"I love the effect she has on me." He wrapped his arm around Regina and held her close. It then dawned on him how his words could be taken and horror crossed his face. "I didn't mean it like that! I meant…"
Everyone laughed as Regina patted his leg. "Don't bother, Robin. You're just going to dig a deeper hole."
He did as she said, instead focusing on her. "Have I told you you look beautiful today?" he whispered.
"I think so. But you can always tell me again," she whispered back.
"Ahh. Then you look beautiful."
Ruby leaned closer. "What are we whispering about?"
"This is a private conversation," Regina told her cousin, giving her a gentle shove. "Mind your own business."
"Kinda hard in a limo surrounded by everyone," Ruby shot back.
Robin turned his back to her, glancing over his shoulder. "Just pretend we're not here. Okay?"
Laughing, Regina gave him a shove. "She's right. Let's not be rude. We'll leave all the lovey-dovey stuff to the bride and groom."
"Fine," he replied with a sigh. He then leaned closer. "But tonight in the hotel is another story."
She smirked, leaning closer. "Why, Robin Locksley, your mind is quite dirty today. Do I need to call your grandparents and tell them you're being a naughty boy?"
"You can but you know Grandpa Roland will only cheer me on."
He had her there as his grandfather loved to get a bit raunchy to embarrass them. It was just part of his teasing, which Regina found endearing. She felt like part of his family already.
"Okay, lovebirds, we're here. Time to get our pictures taken," Ruby said, starting to climb out of the limo.
Robin held out his hand to her and smiled. "Shall we?"
By the time they were back in the limo and heading over to the reception, Regina already wanted out of her dress and shoes. "These were definitely not made for extended wear," she moaned, staring at her strappy high heels.
"Tell me about it," Ruby echoed. "Can we take them off just until we get to the catering hall?"
"I don't know if I'll be able to put mine back on after that," Anna added.
Ruby sighed. "We should've gotten flats as well."
Ariel leaned against Eric. "Will you give me a foot massage later? After the reception?"
"Of course, sweetie." He kissed her head. "Whatever you want."
Ruby pouted. "That's not fair. I'm not going to have anyone to massage my feet when all is said and done. Robin, care to come to my rooms before you lock yourself away with Regina?"
"Just soak your feet, Rubes," Regina replied. "I'm going to hog this one all to myself."
The limo stopped and everyone climbed out. As Regina started toward the door, Robin stopped her and pulled her back. "I have half a mind to take you here and now."
"What is with you today? You're hornier than ever." She smiled, though, moving closer to him. If she was honest, she was starting to get as turned on as he clearly was.
He hummed. "Do you know that since we've gotten back from England, last night was the first time we've been apart?"
Regina thought about it and a jolt went through her when she realized he was right. After returning, he had spent a few nights at her apartment. She then spent the night at his and they alternated where they spent their nights after that. It seemed natural to be with him all the time. "Oh," she said softly.
"Oh, indeed." He pulled her onto his lap, brushing her hair off her shoulder to kiss it. "I missed having you in my arms. Waking up to your beautiful brown eyes and sleepy smile."
"I did miss waking up to you drooling on my pillow," she teased, brushing the stray hair back again.
Robin pressed his forehead against hers. "I think we need to discuss what his means for us and our relationship. But not before I have you completely undone and cursing as you come over and over."
She flushed as heat pooled lower inside her. "If you keep talking like that, I'll be a mess. And I'm sure Mary Margaret won't appreciate it."
"Right, right." He pulled away, sighing. "I doubt David would be pleased to see me disheveled and looking a complete mess."
"It's only a few more hours," Regina assured him.
He smiled. "They will be torture."
The reception was in full swing and the music was pounding upstairs as the wedding party gathered for their big entrance. "I hope everyone practiced a really fun entrance," Ariel told them, already slightly drunk after the cocktail hour.
Robin raised his eyebrow and looked at her. "So what are we going to do?"
"I didn't expect her to take this so seriously," Regina replied. "I haven't anything planned."
"Don't worry, lovely. Just follow my lead and we'll be fine," he assured her, patting her hand.
She took a deep breath as the DJ began to announce each couple in the wedding party. Eric and Ruby went before them, doing a rather unbalanced conga to the dancefloor. Regina raised her eyebrow and glanced up at Robin, who was laughing. Surely he wasn't going to do something like that with her.
Robin grabbed a rose from a nearby vase and turned to her. "Do you know how to tango?"
"Do you?"
"I can fake it." He placed the rose between his lips as they were announced. Grabbing her hand, he pulled her close as they did some form of the tango into the ballroom. When they reached the dancefloor, he handed the rose to her. "Cara mia."
"A fan of the Addams Family? Looks like I found my new thing about you for today." She stepped back in line, rolling the rose between her fingers as the bride and groom were announced.
Mary Margaret and David began their first dance and Regina sighed. She watched him twirl her around the floor, the two gazing into each other's eyes as if no one else was there. They probably forgot they weren't alone as they were so wrapped up in each other.
Robin approached her, bowing to her. "They've opened up the dancefloor. May I have this dance?"
"Of course." She took his hand and let him lead her toward the center of the dancefloor where the other couples had joined Mary Margaret and David. He held her close and she rested her head on his shoulder, closing her eyes as she enjoyed being so close to him.
Robin hummed after a little bit. "Lovely, what exactly is the relationship between your cousin and Belle?"
"Are they dancing together?"
"They are."
Regina sighed. "I'm not entirely sure, then. I think they both like each other but are too afraid to make a move given Ruby's job."
"Weren't you trying to set her up with Graham?"
"No," she replied. "I thought there might be something between them…My cousin is bi, Robin. But I think she loves Belle."
The music ended and she reluctantly pulled away, following Robin's gaze to where Ruby and Belle were separating with laughs. "The only thing is I don't know how Belle feels about her," Regina added.
He wrapped his arm around her waist, leading her toward the bar. "I see. Well, our matchmaking plans worked with Ana and Will. Why don't we use one for your cousin and Belle?"
"I think we should just let them be, Robin, and see what happens. Okay?" Regina took the glass of wine from the bartender.
"Okay." He kissed her hand before lacing their fingers together. They returned to the table dedicated to the wedding party, taking their seats as the salads were brought out.
Robin pulled Regina to the back of the ballroom where the photo booth was set up. "We have to take some pictures. It's wedding law," he said.
"Well, if it's wedding law…" Regina laughed as he placed oversized glasses on her nose. He put on a Viking hat before grabbing one of the signs to hold up. They positioned themselves and prepared for their three shots.
They went traditional for the first shot, standing side by side as he held the sign in front of them. She then grabbed his jacket and pretended to pull him close. For their last shot, she kissed him as her glasses fell off her face.
Breaking away from him, Regina spied the sign he had been holding and her breath caught in her throat. Next down the aisle…
"Robin! Regina! Don't move!" Henry ordered, helping Cora navigate the crowds with her wide black skirt. They approached the photo booth, smiling. "We're going to take a family picture."
Robin let go of Regina and started to back away. "I'll go wait by the table, then. Leave you to your pictures."
"Oh no. We said family photos. Now you come back here." Cora grabbed him and pulled him to stand next to Regina. She craned her neck. "We just need…Ruby!"
He started to say that Ruby was across the room and wouldn't be able to hear her when Regina raised her hand. "Just wait," she instructed.
"Sorry, Aunt Cora! I'm here," Ruby said, emerging from the crowd to take her place next to Cora.
"How…?" Robin asked, incredulous.
Regina shrugged. "It's just a gift my mother has. No matter where Ruby and I are, we always know when she wants us."
"Incredible," he said, wrapping his arm around her waist as Henry stood on his other side. Cora stood between Regina and Ruby, instructing everyone to smile for their three shots.
They picked up their pictures, Regina smiling as she saw the sign yet again in their first picture. Robin wrapped his arms around her and kissed her cheek. "I mean it," he whispered.
"Is this your idea of a proposal? Because I think it would be kinda dickish to get engaged at someone else's wedding."
"Duly noted. But no. I want the proposal to represent our relationship."
Regina raised an eyebrow. "I am not picking my ring out of a bowl of macaroni and cheese."
"So noted as well," he replied. His next words, though, were cut off by the DJ.
"Okay, single ladies. Mary Margaret is in the center of the dance floor with her bouquet. You know what that means—gather together and may the best woman win!" he announced.
Ruby darted past them, grabbing Regina's hand. "Come on. We don't want to miss the bouquet toss."
"I don't really need to do it. I'm not exactly single," she argued with her cousin.
Stopping, Ruby turned to her. "Has Robin put a ring on it?"
"Not yet."
"Then you're single and eligible to catch that bouquet. Maybe it'll give Robin motivation!" Ruby pulled her toward the gaggle of women congregating on the dance floor.
Regina and Ruby took spots by Belle and waited for Mary Margaret to toss her bouquet. The exquisite array of roses soared through the air before landing into a pile of hands. Each tried to get a good grip on it, bouncing it around them like they were playing a game to keep it from landing on the floor. Regina had to duck under arms, throwing up her hands to protect her face from sharp, manicured nails.
The bouquet landed in her hands and she blinked a few times, surprised to see it there. Ruby shook her, excited. "You did it! You caught it!"
As the other women groaned and drifted away, Regina sought out Robin with her eyes. He stood by their table, arms crossed and smirking as the other men teased him. She winked at him and headed off the floor as the men prepared to catch the garter.
"No pressure," she said as they passed each other, "but I did catch the bouquet."
He grinned. "I'll do my best."
She stood next to Ruby and Anna back at their table, watching the single men line up on the dance floor. Belle joined them, frowning as she pointed to one who appeared to be barely out of his teens. He had positioned himself in the front and had a big grin on his face that set Regina on edge as Belle asked: "Is he old enough to catch the garter?"
"Are there age requirements to do so?" Anna asked.
"There should be," Regina replied, frowning as she feared that she would have to do something with a boy who looked like he would be constantly trying to grope her.
The DJ placed a chair for Mary Margaret to sit on and she was already turning red as she did so. Ruby sighed. "It's just David. Why is she embarrassed to have him feel her up?"
"I think it's the audience, Rubes," Belle replied. "Mary Margaret is more private about things like that."
"And David knows that. Look, he's not doing any of the theatrics I've seen other grooms do at weddings." Regina motioned to where David knelt in front of his bride, quickly removing the garter belt with little fanfare and to get it over with before Mary Margaret became too mortified.
David stood as the men looked ready to pounce on the piece of fabric like it was a fumbled football. Regina held her breath as the garter flew through the air, waiting to see if Robin would be the one to catch it. His fingers grazed it and it seemed Lance was trying to help him but it bounced out of their grasp. For a quick moment, it looked like the eager young man would catch it but it then escaped him. In the end, a man with short brown hair cut in a neat style caught it with a surprised expression.
Robin met her eyes and shrugged, looking repentant. She didn't mind too much, though she was a bit nervous about what the DJ was going to make her do next. As she headed back out to the dance floor, Robin squeezed her hand. "Sorry, lovely."
"Don't worry," she whispered back. "Just pray for me that I don't have to do anything too embarrassing."
The DJ smiled at her as she approached. "Now, I usually like to have the man who caught garter put it on the woman who caught the bouquet but our bride and groom nixed that idea. Sorry, Miss Bridesmaid."
"That's okay," Regina replied, turning to David and Mary Margaret. "Thank you for sparing me from being felt up by a stranger. You're the best."
David gave her thumbs up while the DJ realized they weren't the wedding guests he was used to. He seemed annoyed when he next spoke. "Okay, so, these two will now share a dance. Keep it clean or you might make the bride nervous."
"Keep your snide comments to yourself and you'll get to keep your entire payment from them," Regina hissed at him.
He looked properly chastised, hurrying back to the booth to start the song as Regina and the man who caught the garter awkwardly smiled at each other. She decided to break the ice first. "I'm Regina," she said.
"Gary," he replied. "I work at Leopold's firm and yeah…I just did this as a joke. I didn't expect to catch the garter."
"I didn't really expect to catch the bouquet," she admitted as they fell into an easy slow dance. "Are you here with anyone?"
He shook his head. "But I know you are."
"Yeah, you've seen me dancing with him, right?"
"That and he's glaring daggers at me from the edge of the dancefloor."
Regina glanced over Gary's shoulder to see Robin standing there, arms crossed. He frowned as his eyes followed their every moment, the dim lighting hiding the emotions in his eyes. But if she had to hazard a guess, she would say he was jealous.
That was interesting.
"Ignore him," she told Gary. "The dance is almost over and this hasn't been the nightmare it could've been."
He nodded. "We all kinda agreed that the kid was not catching the garter. He was way too interested in dancing with you and it made all of us nervous, not just Jealous McGreen over there."
"I'm glad to hear chivalry is not dead," Regina replied. "I thank all of you."
"On behalf of the others, you're welcome." The music ended and Gary stepped away, bowing. "Nice to have met you, Regina. Thank you for the dance."
Regina smiled. "You too, Gary. Enjoy the rest of the wedding."
Another slow song started up and before she could move, Regina found herself wrapped up in Robin's arms. He held her a bit tighter than usual while they swayed to the music. "Something wrong, dear?" she asked, teasingly.
"No," he replied, voice gruff.
Her smile grew. "You know, Gary was very nice. A good dancer."
"Oh?" His grip on her tightened and she winced as he squeezed her hand.
"Robin, that…that hurts."
Robin stepped away from her, eyes wide in panic and repentance. "Shit. I'm sorry, Regina. I didn't mean…I was just…"
He walked off and she picked up her skirts, following him. "Robin, Robin, wait. It wasn't that bad."
"I just need a moment, okay?" Robin said, back still to her.
"Is it because you were jealous? That's okay, Robin."
He turned to face her at last, looking ashamed. "Is it? You know I don't see you as something I possess, right?"
"Of course," she assured him. "Getting jealous is okay, Robin. It happens to all of us, myself included. And you have nothing to worry about. Yeah, Gary was nice but I love you."
"I love you too." Robin pulled her into a hug, cupping the back of her head with his hand. "I'm sorry."
She held him close. "All forgiven. Provided you take me back onto that dancefloor."
Robin and Regina had reserved a room in the hotel where the reception was held, deciding it would just be easier than trying to get home after it. Most wedding guests did the same and they packed the elevator as they headed up to the floor the hotel gave Mary Margaret and David's guests. Belle and Robin helped a rather drunk Ruby to the room she had booked with Belle, setting her down on the bed. "See you in the morning?" Belle asked.
"Yeah," Robin said. "Have a good night. And take care of her."
He stepped out in the hall and wrapped his arm around Regina. She still held both bouquets. "So, you know what this means, right?"
"You have lots of flowers?" he teased.
She hit him with the bride's bouquet. "Be serious."
"Sorry," he said, pulling the key card from his jacket pocket. "Do you trust me?"
"Of course."
He leaned against the door. "And you trust that I love you?"
"Yes."
"Then I ask that you trust me when I say I will marry you and I know when I'm going to ask you. You just need to be patient a little bit longer, okay?"
"I can do that." Regina smiled, letting him lead her into their room. "Now, I believe you started something in the limo…"
His smile morphed into a smirk as he pulled her closer. "Indeed I did, milady. Shall I continue?"
"No. I think I shall takeover." She pushed him and he went down easily, landing on the mattress with a thud. His feet were still on the ground, his legs spread open. It worked for her, as she sank to her knees once she slid off her painful shoes.
Robin sat up a bit. "Regina?"
"Shh," she told him, unzipping his pants and pulling off his pants. "Just lean back, relax and let me do the work for now."
Freeing his half-hard cock, she curled her fingers around it and began pumping lazily. "Is this what you wanted?"
He only groaned in response and she smiled before taking him into her mouth. She picked up her speed as she slid her red lips up and down his length. Robin's fingers gripped hair as he tried not to buck his hips. She had said she was doing the work and he knew she meant it.
She reached up and began massaging his balls in one hand, eliciting a shout of her name from him. Regina took him in deeper, humming. The sensations made him tighten his grip on her hair but not enough to hurt her. A squeeze of his balls as another hum brought him closer to his release. "Regina, I'm gonna…"
The rest of his words were strangled by his moan as he came in her mouth. She swallowed it easily, releasing him with a satisfying pop. As she crawled on the bed, she found him lying flat on his back as he tried to get his breathing under control. "How was that?" she asked, smug.
"God," he sighed. "I thought I was going to have you cursing and screaming."
She patted his chest. "There's still plenty of time for that. You can start with that foot massage."
"I think I'll start with getting us both naked. Roll over," Robin instructed as he pulled off his shirt.
Regina did as he said, rolling onto her stomach as she pillowed her head on her arms. Her eyes fluttered closed as she felt him unzip her dress before sliding it off her. Next her bra was unclasped and he pulled off the lacy panties she had worn under the dress. His body heat enveloped her as he laid down next to her. "Are you falling asleep on me?"
"No," she murmured, opening an eye. "Just comfortable."
He hummed, kissing the tip of her nose. "I'm going to massage your poor abused feet. Try to stay awake, hmm?"
"Of course," she said, bumps rising on her skin as he slid down the bed. She rolled back over and moaned as his calloused hands began to rub her tender right foot. "That feels so good."
Robin rubbed soothing circles against her foot, working through the pain and tension in it before moving to her left one. She closed her eyes again, drifting in and out of sleep as he worked his magic.
The scratch of his beard against her inner thigh woke her rather than the kisses he was trailing up her leg. She lifted herself up to find him spreading her legs more as he grew closer to her sex. "What are you doing?" she asked, suspecting the answer.
He raised his head, giving her a cheeky grin. "You."
"Oh, for fuck…." She groaned, closing her eyes as he gave a long lick to her clit. Falling back against the pillows, she surrendered herself to his tongue.
Robin sucked her clit, running his hands along her thighs as she began to squirm. The pleasant feeling that every atom in her body was vibrating returned, lighting a fire in her. She gripped the pillow tighter, gasping as his finger entered her. It curled a few times, teasing her as it just brushed the spot that would unravel her.
She let out a stream of curses as he added a second finger, putting more pressure right where she needed it the most. Her back arched as she teased a nipple, bringing her to her high sooner. Electric sensations flooded her and her body tingled as she rode out her orgasm.
He kissed her stomach, resting his chin there. "I told you I would have you cursing."
"You did," she agreed, voice already raspy. "But I don't think I'm undone yet."
"Agreed." He raised himself up to hover over her, their bodies inches apart. "I think I should rectify that."
Regina cupped the back of his head, silken strands of hair sliding between her fingers as she guided him down to kiss her. He traced her curves with one of his hands, lifting her leg as he positioned himself at her entrance. Nipping her ear, he entered her as he whispered: "I love you."
"Love you too." She rolled her hips. "Now fuck me."
He laughed but began moving inside her, finding a fast but steady rhythm. It had been some time since he had taken her hard and she eagerly rose to meet his every thrust. The headboard of their bed was tapping against the wall and she briefly wondered about their neighbors before a haze of bliss clouded her mind.
She racked her fingers down his back, enjoying the hiss he let out. Then she hissed as he bit down on her shoulder, sucking at her pulse point. Her breaths came in shorter gulps, leaving with new curses as his cock began to hit her g-spot. One thrust, two and stars exploded above her as she yelled his name.
After a few more thrusts, Robin came with her name tumbling from his lips. She watched as his eyes turned into slits and his mouth fell open, head tilted back. He held it for a few moments before collapsing next to her. "Fuck, Regina…"
"I know." She rolled closer to him, letting him fold his arms around her again. With a sigh, she closed her eyes and let sleep pull her down into its equally sweet embrace.
In the morning, they picked up their discarded clothes and placed them in their respective garment bags. Regina happily threw her shoes into her luggage, glad to be wearing flats to the bon voyage brunch for Mary Margaret and David. Robin grabbed both their bags, rolling them out into the hallway as Regina did one last check of the room.
She closed the door before smiling at him. "All set. Let's put the bags in the car and go get some breakfast."
"Do you want to check on your cousin first?" Robin motioned to the room Ruby shared with Belle.
Regina shook her head. "I'm sure she's fine. Belle's got it under control."
They boarded the elevator and she leaned against him. "You know, yesterday you said we needed to discuss something…"
"And you want to do it in the elevator?"
"We have time," she replied with a shrug. "So what was it?"
He nodded. "Well, as I noted, we haven't spent much time apart since getting back from England. And it got me wondering…Maybe we should move in together."
Regina wondered why she hadn't thought of that before. It made perfect sense for them and she had to admit to several daydreams about coming home to Robin. She had imagined how they would combine their tastes together to decorate a brand new space just for them, finally melding their two lives into one. Even if he wasn't ready to propose, this was still a step in the right direction.
"That is a great idea," she told him. "We can discuss it more once we get home. But I would love to always come home to you."
He kissed her as the elevator arrived in the lobby. "You head over to the restaurant and I'll meet you there."
Regina stood, though, watching as he left the hotel. She grasped her clutch tighter, excitement overwhelming her. This was a step she had never even considered before, not even with Graham. She could never give up her private place, control over her environment. But she trusted Robin and knew they were going to spend the rest of their lives together.
So while it wasn't the proposal she was looking for, it was a step in the right direction.
A/N: I know everyone's probably just as anxious as Regina for an OQ proposal. Just like Robin asked Regina to trust him, I ask you to trust me and be patient a bit longer. I know when, where and how he's going to propose. I think you'll like it.
Next time, the Queens of Darkness are going to make an appearance as Regina's sorority sisters. They're going to have an eventful girls' night out!
-Mac