Chapter 9 Naked is the way
As the truth about Graham being Devlin's biological father dawns upon her, she finds herself sitting in a daze, her gaze fixed upon her mothers. Regina occupies a makeshift desk, engrossed in grading college papers, while Emma reclines nearby, engrossed in a book, her feet resting gently on Regina's lap. The atmosphere exudes a sense of comfort and love, as if the mere act of being together speaks volumes. Not a single word is exchanged between the two mothers, but the unspoken understanding of their unwavering support for each other is palpable.
Devlin, seated on the floor, becomes captivated by the sight of her mothers, abandoning her coloring activities. Her eyes remain fixed on them, observing their every move.
Emma sense Devlin's gaze upon her and offers a warm smile. "What's on you mind, kiddo?" she inquires.
Devlin hesitates for a moment before responding. "Nothing" she murmurs, her attention divided between her coloring and the silent presence of her parents.
Emma glances at her watch "Hey babe, do you want me to just order pizza? That way we can get dinner out of the way." She suggests.
Regina lets out a soft sigh, setting her parents down for a moment. She usually prefers a home-cooked meal for their family, but being busy grading gives in. "That sounds great. I'll have a salad, please"
"of course" Emma responds with a smile, turning her attention to Devlin. She looks at her daughter, waiting to hear her choice for dinner. "Devlin, what would you like?"
Devlin hesitates for a moment before quietly responding, "just cheese bread, please"
Regina, still engrossed in her work, raises her eyes from the papers before her. "Sweetheart, you need something more than just cheese bread," she gently insists, her voice laced with care.
Devlin lets out a sigh, her gaze fixed on Regina. "I really don't' want anything else" she says, her voice tinged with a hint of frustration.
Regina meets her daughters gaze, reminding herself to pick her battles and this isn't' one she wants to pick "Alright sweetheart, if that's what your truly want, then we'll make sure you get your cheese bread."
Emma's lips curl into a knowing smile as she looks at Regina. "I think I'll order two salads" she says playfully, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "I know eventually Devlin will end up eating yours"
She leans in and plants a tender kiss on Regina's lips, their connection filled with affection and shared humor.
Regina reciprocates the kiss from Emma before redirecting her focus to the papers in front of her. Engrossed in her task of grading, she usually has her TA, Olivia, assisting her. However, with midterms approaching, Regina wants to personally assess which students may require additional instruction.
"Mommy, can I have chocolate milk" Devlin interjects, aware that this is often considered a special treat.
Regina pauses for a moment glancing up from her work to meet Devlin's hopeful gaze. A small smile graces her lips as she sets aside her papers momentarily. "of course, sweetheart. Let's make it a little extra special tonight."
Regina and Devlin take a chocolate milk break, reinforcing bond of mother and daughter.
As dinner arrives, Emma's thoughtful understanding of her family's preferences is evident. She had ordered two salads and two servings of wings, fully aware that Devlin would likely sneak bites of the salad and Regina would d indulge in a few wings. Emma also ensures that a small order of cheesy bread is included, knowing it's a favorite treat for all of them.
Placing the plates on the table, Emma looks at her family with a playful smile. "I thought we could all have a little of everything tonight" she suggests, her eyes twinkling with anticipation.
Regina chuckles softly, appreciating Emma's thoughtfulness and understanding of how Devlin and Regina eventually eat off everyone else plates. They all settle around the table to enjoy their meal.
"Can we have Graham come over for dinner sometime, like we do on Fridays for Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Ruby and Aunt Belle" Devlin asks quietly wondering if her moms are okay with her wanting Graham in her life.
The question hangs in the air, filled with a mix of hope and uncertainty. Regina clears her throat looking at Emma, each giving a look of understanding. They recognize the significance of Devlin's request and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and connection for their daughter.
Regina reaches out, placing a comforting hand on Devlin's. "Sweetheart, we hear you." she says gently. "We understand that you want to have Graham in your life, and we want to support you in that." Regina looks to Emma, who is struggling with her own feelings about this. "We'll talk about it as a family. We want to make sure everyone feels comfortable and that we find the right way to include Graham in our lives."
Devlin only having taken two bites of cheesy bread replies "I'm done" as she pushes away her plate.
Emma and Regina exchange concerned glances, noticing Devlin's lack of appetite. They understand that her emotions may be affecting her appetite.
"Are you feeling okay?" Regina squeezes Devlin's little hand.
Devlin nods, her expression a mix of emotions. 'I'm just not hungry"
Emma leans in, offering reassuring smile. "That's okay, kiddo. Sometimes our emotions can affect our appetite. Remember Mommy and I are here to talk when needed."
Devlin's references and interest have always leaned towards Disney Cars and Superheros, rather than playing with Barbies and babies. As she returns to her coloring books, she finds herself not actively coloring but rather lying on the floor, lost in deep thought.
Her parents observe her from their places at the table, understanding and respecting her individuality and unique interests. They know that Devlin's mind is always active and sometimes she needs moments of quiet contemplation. They understand that Devlin's introspective nature is part of who she is and they want to give her space she needs to process her thoughts.
Regina continues grading papers, occasionally stealing glances at Devlin, silently reassuring her presence and support. Emma, too, keeps an eye on their daughter, ready to offer comfort or engage in conversation if Devlin desires.
Devlin sets her crayons aside, feeling a desire for closeness and comfort. She quietly makes her way over to Emma, who is laying on the couch, and lays down beside her. Emma instinctively wraps her arm around Devlin creating a sense of warmth and security.
Regina, still engrossed in grading papers, occasionally glances up to check on her wife and daughter. Seeing Devlin seeking peace with Emma, she offers a soft smile, understanding their need for connection.
Emma runs her fingers through Devlin's hair, her touch gentle and soothing. "Are you okay, kiddo?" she whispers.
Devlin nods, snuggling closer to Emma. "Just needed some cuddles," she murmurs softly.
Emma holds Devlin close, her presence a source of comfort and reassurance. "I'm here for you, always"
Regina, sensing the tranquility in the room, sets her papers aside for a moment and joins the embrace. The three of them lie together, basking in the warmth of their love and unspoken understanding that they are always there for each other.
After a half hour of quiet cuddles, Devlin finally musters the courage to voice her thoughts that have been weighing on her mind throughout the night. Her voice barely above a whisper, she expresses her confusion about Maleficents feelings towards her moms. "I only like going there cause Graham is there and the nannies are nice. I don't like Maleficent, I don't' understand why she is so mean."
Devlin's thoughts hang in the air, the weight of confusion, disappointment and dislikes for Maleficent and her struggle to understand why things are this way.
Regina gently strokes Devlin's hair, her touch filled with tenderness."Sweetheart, it's okay to feel the way you do, sometimes people have their own struggles and challenges that make them act in ways that may seem mean or hurtful. You're feelings are valid and I'm so happy that you feel comfortable sharing with mama and I. We're here to help you."
"We may not fully understand why someone is the way they are. What's important is how we respond and how we take care of ourselves." Emma intertwines her fingers with Regina's as she holds Devlin tight.
Devlin looks up at her moms, you can tell by her eyes that she is deep in thought and struggling with some huge emotions for someone so little. Tears begin to well up in her eyes.
Regina wraps her arms around Devlin and Emma holding them tighter. "We're here for you Devlin. You're not alone, mama and I are here for you. We will work through this together and help you find ways to cope with challenges.
Devlin buries her head into Emma's chest. She sighs having more thoughts in her head.
"Devlin, you can talk to us about anything." Emma senses Devlin's heavy thoughts.
"I don't want you two to break up." Devlin blurts out with a sniffle.
"Oh kiddo," Emma says softly as she tightens her hold on Devlin. "We want you to know that mommy and I are committed to each other and to our family. We will always be together."
"Why do you feel like this?" Regina holds her two favorite women in the world tighter.
"Maleficent wants Mommy back." Devlin hides her face in Emma's chest.
Regina's heart skips a beat as Devlin reveals the reason behind her worry. She shifts closer to Emma and Devlin "Oh sweetheart, I understand that this might be causing you distress, but please know that mama and I are committed to each other."
"Devlin, mommy and I have a strong and loving relationship. We have faced challenges before but we always work through them together. Our commitment to each other is unwavering.
Devlin peaks out from Emma's chest, her eyes searching for her moms, taking in the words.
Regina reaches out, gently brushing a strand of hair away from Devlin's face. "Maleficent may have her own desires, but what matters most is our love and dedication to each other. If there are any changes or concerns, we will talk about them together as a family."
Devlin sits up, causing everyone else to sit up.
Devlin holds her head "I'm so confused" she sighs trying to process so much information What Maleficent is saying, what Graham wants, what her mommies are saying. It is so overwhelming and confusing having different perspectives and information. She looks at her mommies with wide eyes, seeking guidance and understanding.
Devlin crawls into Regina's lap "My love, it's completely normal to feel confused" she hugs her tightly. "Others opinions and thoughts are confusing as well. It's good to talk and ask questions."
"We will do our best to explain things in a way that makes sense to you and answer any questions you may have." Emma lays a hand on Devlin's back.
"I don't want to loose my mommies" Devlin clings to her mommies, feeling their love wash over her, however, a lingering doubt planted by Maleficent remains in her mind, causing her to question the stability of her family.
"If there is more on your mind, or something Maleficent has said or done, please know that you can always tell us, this is a safe place Devlin" Emma encourages.
Devlin takes a deep breath looking at Regina and Emma. "I'm scared Maleficent will take you away from me." Devlin admits with a trembling voice. "she says things that make me doubt if you'll always be here."
Regina holds her tighter. "No one is ever going to take you away from us or us away from you." Regina is now struggling to hold in her anger and frustration towards Maleficent. Emma places her hand on Regina understanding in her feelings cause she is feeling the same. "We will always love you, even when you're a teenager and we get teenager attitude, or when you marry and have a family of your own, we will always be your mommies." Regina kisses Devlin's forehead in reassurance.
"I don't want to get married" Devlin says out of the blue.
Regina and Emma exchange amused glances, their laughter bubbling up at Devlin's unexpected statement. They find joy in their daughter's innocence and honesty, appreciating her candidness.
Regina chuckles softly, her voice filled with amusement. "well, sweetheart, you don't have to worry about getting married right now. You have plenty of time to grow up and make your own choices."
Emma joins in, her laughter warm and genuine. "Exactly kiddo." she says, her voice filled with mirth. "You have your whole life a head of you to explore and decide what makes you happy. Whether you choose to get married or not, we will always love you."
In the days to come, Regina and Emma go out of their way to make sure Devlin knows she is loved and always will be.
Friday night dinners, Aunt Ruby and Aunt Belle arrive just in time to help cook.
"Belle, I love that you cook." Ruby kisses Belle as Belle joins Regina.
Regina and Belle always bond over their desire to create meals for their family.
Ruby and Emma grab a couple of beers and go out on the porch.
"So Graham wants to come over for dinners." Emma tells Ruby.
Ruby takes a sip of her beer, leaning against the porch railing as she listens to Emma's words. She nods understanding the complexity of the situation. "Yeah, I heard about that," Ruby replies her voice filled with empathy. "it's a lot to process, isn't it?" I mean, having Graham wanting to be a part of Devlin's life after all this time."
Emma sighs, her gaze focused on the horizon. "It is Ruby. I want what's best for Devlin, but it's hard to trust someone who hasn't been there for her all the time." she admits, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and concern.
Ruby places a comforting hand on Emma's shoulder, offering support. "I get it Em. It's natural t have reservations and concerns, but remember, Devlin has you and Regina as her rock. You have been there from day one, supporting and loving her. You are her other mother."
Emma smiles, grateful for Ruby's reassuring words and wisdom. "You're right, Rubes. We'll navigate this situation together, making sure Devlin's best interests are at the forefront."
Ruby raises her beer bottle, clinking it against Emma's. "To being the best moms Devlin could ever have."
Emma smiles, clinking her bottle against Ruby's. "To love, family and always having each other's backs."
As they sit on the porch, Emma and Ruby their peacefulness is interrupted by a very excited Devlin bursting out onto the porch. They both chuckle as she jumps off the porch and lands in a big puddle, causing water to splash everywhere.
"Devlin, what are you doing?" Emma asks, a mix of amusement and concern in her voice.
Devlin looks up, her face beaming with joy. "I wanted to make a big splash, just like in the movies!" she exclaims, her voice filled with excitement.
Ruby joins in the laughter, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Well, you certainly made a big splash, Devlin" she laughs lighthearted.
Emma walks over to Devlin, her shoes squelching in the wet grass. She kneels down, a smile on her face. "You're defiantly full of surprises kiddo," she says her voice filled with affection. "but let's try to keep the splashing to the puddles, okay?"
"Okay Mama." Devlin replies running off to play in more puddles.
Emma and Ruby go back inside leaving Devlin to play outside in the mud and puddles. Devlin, being covered in mud and soaked, begins to shake while she is playing, not minding how cold it has gotten.
Regina notices Devlin's shivering form from the window and quickly rushes outside, concerned etched on her face. She wraps her arms around her daughter pulling her close in a warm embrace.
"Sweetheart, you're freezing!" Regina exclaims, her voice filled with worry. "Let's get you inside and warm you up."
Devlin looks up at her mom, her teeth chattering slightly, "but Mommy, I'm having so much fun playing in the rain."
Emma joins them, carrying a towel. "I know you were having fun, but it's important to take care of yourself too." she wraps Devlin in the towel. "Let's get you inside, warm and cleaned up."
Regina carries Devlin inside, carefully avoiding any muddy footprint.
Once inside, they quickly remove Devlin's wet clothes and wrap her in a warm blanket. Regina rubs her hands together creating friction to generate heat, then gently places them on Devlin's arms and back trying to warm her up.
"I'm sorry Mommy and Mama,"
"It's okay" Emma kneels. "let's get you upstairs in a warm tub and cleaned off.
Emma and Ruby lead Devlin upstairs to the bathroom, their hands gently guiding her along. They fill the bathtub with warm water, creating a soothing and comforting environment.
"Alright, Devlin, let's get you cleaned up." Emma says,her voice gentle and reassuring.
Devlin sinks into the warm water, feeling the tension melt away from her body. Emma and Ruby gently wash away the mud, their hands moving with care and tenderness.
As they clean her up, they engage in playful banter and silly songs, filling the bathroom with laughter and joy. Once Devlin is all clean, Emma and Ruby help her out of the bathtub and wrap her in a fluffy towel. They dry her off, making sure every inch of her is warm and dry.
"Let's get you in some warm pajamas." Emma goes to help Devlin put them on, when Devlin takes off running naked downstairs and into the kitchen. She quickly rushes down after her, amusement on her face
"Devlin wait." Emma calls out, trying to catch up to her hungry energetic child.
In the kitchen, Regina and Belle turn their heads, their eyes widening at the unexpected sight. They exchange a surprised look before bursting into laughter, unable to contain their joy.
Belle quickly grabs a nearby apron and holds it up, shielding her eyes playfully. "Well, hello there little naked Devlin." she says, voice filled with humor.
Regina joins in the laughter, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I see someone is eager for dinner."
Devlin giggles, her bare feet pitter-pattering on the kitchen floor. "I'm hungry mommy" she exclaims.
Emma catches up to Devlin, laughing trying to catch her breath. "There you are."
"I don't want to wear clothes" Devlin whines, enjoying the freedom of being naked.
Emma, Ruby, Belle and Regina laughter lingers in the air They understand Devlin's desire for freedom and independence, but they also know the importance of appropriate clothing.
Emma kneels down beside Devlin, "Kiddo, I know it feels nice to be free, but we need to wear clothes, especially when we're around people."
Regina adds "It's important to respect the boundaries and norms of our society, Devlin. We can find a balance."
Devlin pouts, her bottom lip sticking out slightly. She looks down at her naked form, contemplating their words. After a moment she sighs and allows Emma to put her pajamas on her. "OK, as long as I get some naked time."
"yes, Devlin, we'll find ways to keep you safe and give you naked time." Regina laughs helping her wife get Devlin dressed.
Ruby's playful smirk widens as she observes the interaction between Devlin, Regina and Emma. She leans against the doorway, "She defiantly takes after her moms in the not wanting to wear clothing department. I guess she's inherited that streak of independence and free-spirited."
Regina laughs., her eyes meeting Emma's with a knowing look. "Well, I can't deny that." She says her voice laced in playfulness. "We've always encouraged her to express herself, it seems shes found her own way of doing it."
Emma grins her lopsided grin. "I suppose we can't blame her for wanting to feel the wind on her skin."
Ruby joins in the laughter, her voice filled with affection. "It's all part of the adventure raising a unique and spirited child and we're here to support her every step."
Devlin looks up at Ruby, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Aunt Ruby, do you like her wearing clothes?"
"well my dear, I do appreciate the comfort and style of clothes, but I also understand the joy of feeling free and unrestricted."
"I would know, I use to live with you." Emma's playful smirk turns into a sly grin as she recalls the memories of living with Ruby and Belle. She raises an eyebrow, teasingly reminding Ruby of her own penchant for nudity.
"Oh how could I forget those days, Rubes?" Emma laughs. "I distinctly remember walking into your apartment and finding you casually strolling around in all your naked glory."
Ruby eyes widen in mock surprise, a playful glint in her eyes. "Hey now, I was just embracing my natural state of being," she says her voice filled with laughter. "Besides, it's not like I had any secrets from you, Em."
Regina joins in the teasing, her voice filled with humor. "Yes, I remember those days too." she says, her tone light-hearted. "it was quite the experience, to say the least."
Belle, who has been listening to the banter, chuckles and shakes her head. "Oh, the memories we've made." she says, her voice filled with fondness. "but let's not forget that we've all grown and evolved since then."
Devlin getting impatient with the adults banter. "So I don't have to wear clothes?" She looks between all four adults. Her eyes search for a definitive answer to her question about clothing.
Regina kneels down. "Wearing clothing out in public is a norm that helps us respect the comfort and boundaries of others. But at home we can make time for your free-spirit to run loose." Devlin hugs Regina tight.
"Okay mommy," She smiles. "Can we call Aunt Z now?"
As Emma sets up Face time for Devlin to talk to Zelena, Devlin's excitement fills the air. Devlin quickly shares the news about her newfound freedom from wearing clothes.
Zelena's face lights up with a mixture of surprise and amusement as she listens to Devlin's words. "Oh really? Your moms said that?"
Devlin nods eagerly, her smile widening. "Yes Auntie Z! They said that sometimes I don't have to wear clothes, like when we're home." she explains, her excitement palpable.
Zelena laughs, "well, that sounds like quite the adventure, doesn't it? I always knew you moms were open-minded and supportive."
Regina comes into the room, "Devlin, it's time for bed, say goodnight and you can talk to Zelena tomorrow"
Zelena blows kisses through the screen at Devlin as she leaves the room. Devlin blows them back.
"So sis, what is this about your home being a nudist colony now?" Zelena smirks.
Regina's eyebrows shoot up in surprise as she hears Zelena's teasing remark about her home being a nudist colony. She chuckles and shakes her head, playfully responding.
"Oh come on, Zelena. It's not a nudist colony. We're just embracing a more relaxed approach to clothing, especially when it comes to Devlin."
Zelena smirks mischievously, her eyes full of humor. "Relaxed approach, huh? That's one way to put it," she says, her voice filled with playful sarcasm. "I always knew you had a wild side, sis."
Regina rolls her eyes, a playful smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Oh please, it's not about being wild" She replies in a light-hearted tone. "It's about allowing Devlin to explore her independence and feel comfortable in her own skin."
Zelena's smirk softens into a warm smile. "I get it Regina, it's important for children to feel free and accepted. I'm so glad you're creating that environment for Devlin." Always one to push the boundaries "So sis, are you and Emma wearing clothes to bed tonight?" Zelena teases knowing how healthy of a sex life her sister and wife have.
Regina's cheeks flush slightly as Zelena playfully teases her about her and Emma's bedtime attire. She clears her throat, trying to maintain her composure.
"Zelena, that's none of your business," Regina says, her tone laced with a mix of amusement and embarrassment. "but rest assured our personal choices in the bedroom are just that- personal."
Zelena sly smile and twinkle in her eyes responds "Oh, come on, sis. We're sisters, we can talk about these things," she says her voice filled with playful insistence. "I'm just curious about your adventurous side."
Regina's cheeks grow even redder, but she can't help but giggle at her sister's persistence. "Well, let's just say that Emma and I have a healthy and fulfilling relationship," she says, her voice filled with a mix of affection and amusement. "But the specifics are between us."
"Oh I see, keeping some secrets, are we?" Zelena raises an eyebrow, her smirk widening. "well as long as you two are happy."
Regina nods, her smile softening. "Thanks Zelena."
As the conversation continues Regina and Zelena share laughter, sisterly banter and a deep bond of love and support.
Regina says goodnight to Zelena and joins everyone else who are already in a hearty game of Cards against Humanity, one of their favorites to play as a group.
"Mommy," Devlin lifts her arms up to Regina.
Regina smiles warmly as Devlin lifts up her arms, signaling she wants to be held. She gladly picks her up, cradling her in her arms. Devlin's familiar gesture of playing with Regina's hair brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
"Hey there little one" Regina whispers her voice filled with tenderness. "Are you feeling tired, sweetheart?"
Devlin nods sleepily, her eyes starting to droop. "Mhm" she murmurs, her voice barely audible.
"Looks like someone's ready for bed," Emma smiles kissing Devlin on the cheek and then Regina on the lips.
Regina gently rocks Devlin back and forth. Belle scoots over making room for Regina settles down on the couch cradling Devlin in her arms. Devlin snuggles closer, her eyes fluttering shut. Regina continues to stroke her hair, providing a soothing rhythm.
As the game continues Ruby decides to see where her family stands on Graham. "So what are you going to do about Graham?" Ruby asks seeing Devlin sleeping peacefully in Regina's arms.
To be continued