Chapter 7 Devlin's 4th Birthday Party
Regina and Emma stirred awake, their peaceful slumber interrupted by the sound of Devlin's exuberant voice and the sensation of her bouncing on the bed. Blinking their eyes open, their faces instantly lit up with affectionate smiles as they beheld their vibrant birthday girl.
"Good Morning, my little four-year-old!" Emma's voice resonated with pure delight as she sat up, extending her arms to embrace Devlin tightly. "Happy birthday, sweetheart! We're absolutely thrilled to celebrate with you today!"
Regina joined in, her voice brimming with adoration. "Happy Birthday, my beautiful girl. It feels just like yesterday you were a baby, and now you're growing into an incredible person we couldn't be prouder of."
Devlin erupted into giggles, her eyes shimmering with anticipation. "Mommy, Mama, we start party now?"
Regina and Emma chuckled, their hearts swelling with joy at Devlin's eagerness. "Not just yet,my love," Regina tenderly replies. "First, we'll enjoy a special birthday breakfast together. After that, it'll be time for your amazing Disney Cars themed party!"
Devlin's face lit up with excitement, her heart brimming with happiness. She could hardly contain her anticipation for the days events. "I love you Mama and Mommy!"
Emma and Regina exchange a loving glance, their hearts overflowing with affection. "We love you more than words can express Devlin." Emma whispered, her voice filled with tenderness. "Your happiness means everything to us, and we'll always strive to make your special day unforgettable."
Regina planted a gentle kiss on Devlin's cheek, her voice radiating warmth. "You bring immeasurable joy and love into our lives, and we're grateful for every single moment we share with you. Happy birthday, our sweet girl."
Later that day
Devlin's eyes light up with joy as she spots Nana and Papa entering the room. She immediately runs towards them, her arms outstretched for a tight hug.
"Nana! Papa!" Devlin exclaims, her voice filled with excitement. "I'm so happy you're here!"
Mary Margaret and David wrap their arms around Devlin, returning her hug with equal affection. "Happy birthday sweetheart!" Mary Margaret says, voice filled with love. "We wouldn't miss celebrating you for anything."
David adds, voice brimming with warmth. "You're growing up so fast, Devlin. We're so proud of the amazing person you're becoming."
Devlin smiles, feeling a deep sense of love and comfort in her grandparents' embrace. "I love you, Nana and Papa,"
Devlin plays with her grandparents waiting for the rest of the guests to show up. The room fills with laughter as Devlin runs her car into Davids car.
Regina and Emma watch from the kitchen, happy to see Emma's parents taking on the role of grandparents with ease.
Devlin's excitement reaches a new heights as she spots Stacy walking through the door. She squeals with delight and rushes towards her, unable to contain her joy.
"STACY!" Devlin exclaims, her voice filled with excitement. "You're here!"
Stacy grins from ear to ear, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Devlin! Happy birthday my friend!" She exclaims, wrapping her arms around Devlin in a tight embrace.
Devlin giggles, returning the hug with equal enthusiasm. Devlins excitement reaches a new high when she spots her aunts Ruby and Belle walking through the door. She quickly runs towards them, giving each of them quick hug before dashing back to join Stacy in their play.
"Happy Birthday" Ruby and Belle smile as they watch Devlin play with Stacy.
As Stacy and Devlin play in their world, the adults gathered around the table, engaging in a spirited card game. Laughter filled the air, accompanied by the clinking of glasses.
"Can we call Aunt Zelena now?" Devlin emerged from her play, with Stacy trailing behind her.
The group decided to reach out to Zelena, eager to share the joy of Devlin's celebration. They dialed her number, but to their disappointment, there was no answer. Just as they began to feel disappointed, there was a knock on the door. Regina swiftly opened it, revealing her sister, Zelena, standing there having flown all the way from England for Devlin's birthday.
Regina's eyes widen in delightful surprise as she catches sight of her sister "Zelena!" Regina exclaims, her voice brimming with surprise and excitement. "Devlin is going to be over the moon to see you!"
Zelena steps inside, a radiant smile gracing her face. "Happy Birthday to my favorite niece!"
Devlin's face lights up with sheer delight as she spots her Aunt Zelena. She rushes towards her, enveloping her in a tight embrace. "Aunt Zelena! You're here. This is the best surprise ever!"
Zelena returns the hug, her voice filled with warmth. "I wouldn't have missed your special day for anything my sweet niece. I wanted to be here to celebrate, no matter the distance"
Stacy, who had been standing beside Devlin, gazes at the scene with wide eyes. "Wow, Devlin, your aunt flew all the way here just for your birthday. That's cool."
Devlin nods "Aunt Zelena is the absolute best!"
As the adults gather around, they exchange hugs and greetings with Zelena, their hearts brimming with joy at her unexpected arrival. They all settle down and begin to play cards again.
Everyone has a piece of cake. "Devlin, time to open presents" Regina says.
Devlin opens up Maleficent gift, Maleficent had her driver drop them off earlier that day. Devlin opens up and sitting right in front of her is the newest I pad, Switch and games, as well as a phone.
Regina and Emma exchange concerned glances as Devlin excitedly opened the gifts. They had previously discussed their wishes for Devlin to wait until she was older before having access to electronics, wanting her to have a more balanced childhood. However, it seems that Maleficent has disregarded their wishes and gone against their parenting decisions.
Regina takes a deep breath, trying to remain calm and composed. She approaches Devlin, her voice gentle but firm. "Sweetheart, those are very generous gifts from Maleficent, but we had talked about waiting until your older before having electronics."
Devlin looks at her moms, a mix of excitement and disappointment in her eyes. "But mommy, I really wanted these things. All my friends have them, and I feel left out."
"You're 4 Devlin," Emma sighs "You don't need these right now." Devlin's face is full of disappointment. "Let's compromise, Mommy and I will download educational games and you can play them for a set amount of time each day. "Emma suggests looking at Regina for back up.
Regina nods in agreement supporting Emma's suggestion "That's right Devlin. We understand that you want to have what your friends have, but we also want to make sure that you get to play and go outside. We'll set a specific amount of time each day for you to play these games, and we'll make sure they meet your educational needs. This way, you can still enjoy some electronic playtime while also engaging in other activities that we believe are important for your growth and development."
Devlin's eyes widen with excitement as she unwraps her other gifts. "Wow a Disney Cars race track! I can't wait to race Lightning McQueen and his friends. Thank you Nana and Papa" Devlin runs over and gives her grandparents hugs.
She unwraps Aunt Ruby and Belles gift her eyes light up "Art supplies" Devlin exclaims, "Thank you Aunt Belle, Aunt Ruby" she runs over and give them big hugs.
Lastly Devlin opens the gift from Aunt Zelena, revealing tickets to Disney on Ice, up front row. Overly excited she throws herself at Aunt Zelena realizing she'll be seeing all her favorite characters.
Zelena smiles, her heart filled with joy as she hugs Devlin tighter. She knows that the experience of watching Disney characters skate and perform will be a magical memory that Devlin will treasure forever.
Regina and Emma watch with anticipation as Devlin unwraps their gift, revealing a couple of sets of Disney Cars Lego's. They exchange knowing smiles, excited to be able to spend time with Devlin and build them.
"Wow, we can build these together." Devlin looks at the legos.
"That's right, and we'll keep adding as well build them." Emma replies just as excited as Devlin.
As the evening progresses, Nana and Papa bid their goodbyes, followed by Stacy. Regina, Zelena and Belle gather their wine glasses and head to the table, while Ruby and Emma bring a couple of their beers each as they join them. The adults settle in, ready to enjoy some more quality time together with a game.
Meanwhile, Devlin, exhausted from the excitement of the day, continues to play with her new Disney Cars track. As she races the cars around the track, her eyelids grow heavy, and she eventually falls asleep, still clutching the controller in her hand.
Regina notices Devlin's peaceful slumber and smiles, her heart filled with love for her sleeping daughter. She gently picks her up, and carries her to her bedroom. Regina tucks Devlin into bed, making sure she's comfortable and safe.
Back at the table, the adults engage in lively conversation and laughter as they enjoy their drinks and company of one another. The atmosphere is relaxed and filled with warmth, a testament to the strong bonds of their friendship turned into family.
Regina returns to the table and takes a seat, joining in the game with a renewed sense of contentment having just put her daughter to bed early because of all the excitement of the day.
The night continues with laughter, friendly competitions and shared stories. As the night turns into the early hours of the morning, the rest of the guests bid farewells and head home, leaving Regina and Emma in a slightly tipsy state. The laughter and joy of the evening have left them feeling content and relaxed.
Regina and Emma stumble their way to their bedroom, their steps a little unsteady from the drinks they've enjoyed throughout the night. They collapse onto the bed, their giggles filling the room as they find themselves in a state of blissful intoxication.
Regina looks at Emma, her eyes sparkling with affection. "I love nights like these, Emma. Surrounded by our loved ones, celebrating Devlin and just enjoying each others company."
Emma nods, her smile warm and genuine. "Me too, Regina. It's moments like these that remind me how lucky we are to have such an amazing family. And to have you by my side."
Regina reaches out, her hand finding Emma's as they intertwine their fingers. "I feel the same way Emma. You are my rock, my partner and the love of my life. I couldn't imagine going through this journey without you."
Emma's heart fills with love, her gaze never leaving Regina's "And I feel the same way about you Regina. You are the most incredible person I know, and I'm grateful every day that you choose me."
In the quiet of their bedroom, the outside world fades away as they focus solely on each other on each other. Their laughter subsides, replaced by a tender and intimate connection that only they share.
As the night turns into morning, Regina and Emma find comfort in each others arms. They drift off to sleep, their bodies intertwined, knowing that they are loved and cherished.
Regina goes to wake Devlin for her day with Zelena, Devlin rolls over and pulls the blankets over her head. "No, still tired" Devlin murmurs.
Regina smiles softly at Devlin, understanding her fatigue after the exciting day she had. She gently brushes a strand of hair away from Devlin's face and speaks in a soothing tone. "I know, sweetheart. You had such a fun day yesterday. Aunt Zelena will be here soon to take you, until then, you can rest.
Devlin peeks out from under the blanket, her eyes still heavy with sleep. "OK, Mommy."
Regina quickly leaves Devlin's room, making her way back to the kitchen where she has prepared coffee for herself and Emma. She pours a cup for Emma, adding a splash of cream just the way she likes it. She sets it on the counter, along with some Tylenol, ready for Emma when she wakes
Taking her own Tylenol, Regina sips her coffee, feeling the warmth spread through her body. The caffeine and pain reliever help alleviate the effects of the previous night's indulgence, allowing her to feel more awake and refreshed.
Soon enough, Emma joins her in the kitchen, eyes blinking as she takes in her surroundings. She spots the cup of coffee and Tylenol on the counter, a grateful smile forming on her lips.
Regina walks over to Emma, wrapping her arms around her in a gentle embrace. "Good morning, love. I made you coffee and laid out some Tylenol. How are you feeling?"
Emma kisses Regina. "Good, thank you for taking care of me. I'm groggy but this coffee and Tylenol help."
They share a tender moment as Devlin comes into the kitchen. She dressed herself in mix matched out fit. "I'm ready for Zelena."
Emma and Regina turn their attention to Devlin, smiles spread across their faces at the sight of their daughter's mix matched outfit.
Regina walks over and picks Devlin up hugging her. "You look absolutely adorable. Aunt Zelena will be here any minute. Are you excited for your special day?"
Before Devlin can respond, Zelena shows up. "Knock, knock" She says entering the home.
"Aunt Zelena!" Devlin practically jumps out of Regina's arms and runs to her aunt. "I'm ready let's go."
"Hey give us hugs kid" Emma says taking a sip of her coffee.
Devlin runs over and hugs Emma and then Regina.
"Don't wait up to late, we're going out on the town." Zelena chuckles taking Devlin by the hand and leaving the house.
After a few minutes Emma eyes grow dark with lust "Come back to bed with me' she suggests to Regina.
Regina's heart skips a beat as she looks into Emma's darkened eyes, feeling a surge of desire course through her veins. She can see the hunger and longing in Emma's gaze and it ignites a fire within her.
Without hesitation Regina takes Emma's hand into hers. "Yes, Emma. let''s go back to bed."
Emma's lip curl into a seductive smile as she takes Regina's hand, leading her towards their bedroom. The air is charged with electricity as they walk, their bodies practically humming with anticipation.
As they enter their bedroom, Emma closes the door behind them, shutting out the rest of the world. Regina's heart races as Emma's hands gently cup her face, their eyes locked in an intense gaze.
Emma's voice is low and filled with desire as she whispers, "I need you, Regina. I need to feel you, your touch and your love."
Regina's breath hitches at Emma's words, her own desire burning brightly. She reaches out, her hands finding their way to Emma's waist, puller her closer. Their bodies press against each other, the heat between them undeniable.
Their lips meet in a fiery kiss, their tongues dancing in a sensual rhythm Regina's hands roam over Emma's body, exploring every curve and dip, fueling the fire of their desire.
Clothes are shed, discarded in a frenzy of need and urgency. Regina and Emma's bodies meld together, their skin sliding against each other in symphony of pleasure. They lose themselves in each other, their movements becoming a dance of passion and love.
Time seems to stand still as they explore each others bodies, their moans and whispers filling the room. They give themselves over to the pleasure, their connection deepening with every touch and every kiss.
In the aftermath, Regina an Emma lay in each others arms, their bodies glistening with sweat and their hearts pounding in sync. They exchange tender kisses and whispered words of love, their bond stronger than ever.
As they catch their breath, Regina and Emma bask in the afterglow of their lovemaking, their bodies intertwined and their souls connected.
Regina's cell phone goes off. Zelena called to tell her that Devlin wants to stay at the hotel with Zelena. After Zelena playfully tells her to behave, Regina hangs up the phone. Emma looks at her.
Regina turns to Emma, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "Not only did we have today to ourselves, but it seems well have the night to ourselves, my Emma." she says, her voice filled with a mix of desire and playfulness.
Emma's eyes light up with a spark of excitement. "oh really? Just the two of us all night?"
Regina nods, her voice low and filled with a renewed desire. "Yes, just the two of us. We have the whole night to indulge in each other, to explore our desires, and to revel in our love" Regina's chocolate eyes grow darker.
Emma pulls Regina closer, her voice filled with a mix of longing and anticipation. "i can't wait to have all night with you, Regina. To feel your touch and lips all over again, all night"
Regina's breath hitches at Emma's words, she reaches out, her hands pulling Emma on top of her. They continue to bask in each others love all night long, falling asleep holding tight to each other.
The next morning
Regina and Emma's eyes light up as they hear Zelena's voice and the sound of laughter approaching the living room. They turn their heads to see Zelena and Devlin entering, both with wide smiles on their faces.
"Mommy, Mama!" Devlin exclaims her voice filled with excitement as she spots Regina and Emma on the couch. She attempts to rush forward, but struggles a bit under the weight of the over-sized Lightning McQueen toy she's carrying.
Regina and Emma open their arms ready to embrace their daughter. Devlin drops the toy to the side and jumps onto the couch, sandwiched between her mothers. They envelop her in a warm, loving hug showering her with kisses.
"Hey, my little Lightning McQueen enthusiast," Emma playfully brushes Devlin's hair. "Did you have a fun time with Aunt Zelena?"
Devlin nods vigorously, her eyes shining with joy. "Yes Mama! Aunt Zelena took me to a show, then we went to the hotel to swim, then went out to eat at some fancy restaurant, then she got me this." Devlin points to the overstuffed Lightning McQueen as big as she is.
Regina and Emma exchange amused glances, "Wow, Devlin, that's an enormous Lightning McQueen!"' Regina exclaims her voice filled with awe. "It's almost as big as you!"
Devlin giggles, snuggling closer to her mothers. "I know, Mommy!" Aunt Zelena said it's a special gift just for me. I love it!"
Zelena joins them on the couch, a contented smile gracing her face. "I couldn't resist spoiling my favorite niece," She says her voice filled with affection. "I'm so glad you love it, Devlin."
Regina gives Zelena a grateful look, silently acknowledging a thank you.
Devlin is playing games on her Ipad while Emma, Regina and Zelena walk into the kitchen. "Well it looks like you two had no problems keeping busy" Zelena nods towards Regina's neck where there is a hickey.
Regina and Emma exchange knowing smiles, their eyes twinkling with mischief. Regina playfully rolls her eyes at Zelena's teasing remark.
"Oh Zelena," Regina responds, a smirk tugging at her lips. "You always manage to find a way to poke fun at us, don't you?"
Emma joins in the banter, a lopsided grin on her face. "Well Zelena, let's just say we had quite the adventure. But somethings are better left to the imagination."
Zelena raises an eyebrow, a playful glimmer in her eyes. "I bet it was quite the adventure, my sister is smitten with you, Emma. And rest assure my dear, I have a great imagination." Zelena teases.
Regina playfully smacks her sister in the arm."somethings are met to be private Zelena. Just know that we had an unforgettable time together and we thank you for taking Devlin for the night."
Emma leans closer to Zelena and whispers, "but if you're really curious, ."
"Emma" Regina blushes smacking her wife on the shoulder. Emma holds her hands up in a playful defensive position.
The three sit on the couch continuing their playful banter. Devlin crawls up on Zelena's lap, she begins to twirl Zelena's hair as she lays her head on her shoulder.
"Why do you have to live so far away?" Devlin asks looking up from laying down on her large stuff animal.
Zelena gazes down at Devlin, a gentle smile gracing her lips as she lovingly strokes her nieces hair. "Oh sweet Devlin, I understand it can be tough being apart from each other, but you see, I have a unique connection with my father, and that's why I choose to live in England, where he is."
Regina, sitting beside her sister, joins in the conversation. "Yes darling, Zelena father lives in a different place, so Zelena decided to live closer to him."
Devlin lifts her head, looking Zelena in the eyes, curiosity taking over. "But Aunt Z, why did you choose to be near your father, don't you miss us?"
Zelena's expression softens and she tightens her embrace on Devlin. "Oh, my dear, I love you and your moms with all my heart. Family relationships can be complex, and sometimes we need to spend time with different parts of our family to understand ourselves better."
Regina adds placing her hand on Devlin's back. "Zelena and I may have different fathers, but that doesn't diminish the love we have for each other."
Devlin sits and looks at her family. She's processing what she was told looking from Emma, Regina to Zelena. "Family is love and I love my family."
"We love you too, Devlin," Zelena hugs her "no matter how far away I am from you, I will always be there for you."
The four of them hug each other in a tight group hug.
To be continued