It had been three weeks, weeks of Skyping Regina and Henry every night, of texting and calling Regina whenever she was able to, and weeks of Emma having a smile on her face for the majority of that time. She opened her phone and saw the picture the mayor had sent that morning; it was one of her and Henry. They were making breakfast together and each had spots of flour on their faces with smiles so big. She was about to text Regina yet again but her name being called by the receptionist had her stashing the phone back in her pocket.
Her doctor took the brace off her wrist and after an examination was happy to let Emma know that she was cleared. There was probably going to be some stiffness and maybe the need for physical therapy if it got too painful but Emma left the office without her brace and she grabbed her phone once she settled into the yellow Beetle. The deal was that when she was all clear it was time for a trip to Storybrooke but she had an idea.
'Hey, my wrist is all better! I just wanted to let you be the first to know. You up for an operation? I'm open to names but how about Operation Surprise Regina? Or I guess- surprise your mom. Think you can keep her unaware until I get there tomorrow?'
She was sure her smile matched the massive grins in the photo of the Mills as she opened another text, knowing she had to keep Regina out of the loop but maintain their communication so she wouldn't be curious about the lack of messages. Thankfully she hadn't mentioned the visit with the doctor so there was nothing to explain.
'Mayor Mills, how goes running Storybrooke? Any dragons attacking the townspeople yet? You should make them apple turnovers as a peace offering. Let me know your thoughts.'
Emma was about to put her phone away to drive when the youngest of the two Mills replied with about a dozen emojis surrounding the words 'Operation Storybrooke Expedition is a GO!' She chuckled and slid it into her back pocket before turning her keys in the ignition to head to her apartment. There was some packing she had to do for a four hour drive to Storybrooke.
When she pulled up to park in front of her apartment building it was behind a familiar red vehicle with a glass wolf charm dangling from the rearview mirror. The red head wasn't inside the car and she knew that meant she'd taken advantage of her spare key to let herself into the apartment, which was confirmed as she walked in to music and her friend on the couch.
"How'd it go? How's the paw doing, pup?" Ruby bounced up and beamed as Emma waved all ten fingers for show before moving to drop into the seat next to her friend, letting out a laugh when she took a closer look at her wrist as if the display wasn't good enough. Ruby was careful to not hurt her friend but then smirked at her "More importantly, now that you're healed, when do you go see that beautiful lady of yours? When are you Storybrooke bound?"
Emma laughed again, it was Ruby's natural need to skip topics that had her chuckling, before getting up and moving over to her bedroom with her friend following close behind. "I came home to pack actually, Rubes, but I am glad you're here so I can tell you to look after this place if you can find the time. I don't have any clue how long I'm going to be gone for but my accomplice is keeping Regina preoccupied until I get there, he's hopefully gonna run interference so when I'm driving she doesn't get too suspicious."
She started to put a few things in the bag only for her friend to pull a couple out with a shake of her head. "Uh uh, you aren't wearing any of the ugly clothes in front of Mayor Beautiful Gorgeous. Here, let me help," Ruby got up and pulled out the red leather jacket before tossing it to her friend "I think you should take some of your nerdy shirts too because you've gotta hang with your little buddy." Making her point she pulled out an old black t-shirt that simply said Star Wars on it before putting it in the bag with some sweatpants for her to sleep in.
Emma laid back on her bed and sighed, "Do you think.. I'm nervous, Rubes, I'm really ridiculously nervous about meeting Regina and Henry. I care a lot about them both and I just hope that things aren't different when I'm there, standing in Storybrooke," She pulled the sleeve of her jacket over her face and groaned "If I'm being honest it's Regina I'm nervous about seeing. She's an incredible woman and I don't wanna screw things up by being.. By being-"
"Yourself? You mean the person she can't stop talking about?" Emma's phone buzzed from its spot near her on the bed and Ruby chuckled "Or stop talking to? She's texting you right now and I know you guys Skype all the time. Emma, listen to me, Regina is as obsessed with you as you are with her and going to Storybrooke is only going to be good for both of you. Make sure to text me to let me know you're there safe AND after you guys kiss!"
The blonde launched a pillow at her friend before grabbing her phone; it was indeed Regina texting her and she grinned, opening the message while Ruby tossed the pillow back before continuing to pack some things for her friend.
'I'll have you know, Miss Swan, no dragon could resist my apple turnovers so the contract for peace in our realm might be a very real possibility. Will you be able to Skype with Henry and I tonight? I'm going to pick him up from school shortly and I know it'll be the first thing he asks me- before even saying hello. You may have turned my son into a Skype addict. What do you say in your defense? Remember you are speaking to the queen and I operate as both judge and jury.'
"You have the biggest smile on your face right now and it's so cute. I bet you anything she's beaming too but I want you to let her know… If she hurts you Emma, I'll.. I will-" "You'll what, Rubes? Sick the wolf pack on her? I'm a big girl but I do appreciate the concern. Let me text Regina back and then I'll take over packing."
Emma smiled at Ruby before turning back to her phone, she was hoping that Ruby was right because Regina's smile was breathtaking and she loved being the cause of it. She wanted nothing more than to see that smile in person and it trumped her nerves knowing that she would be seeing it soon enough and not through a photo or video.
'You are right, your majesty, we knights need to be held accountable. I have pledged my loyalty to the kingdom and that includes young Prince Henry. How about we turn our Skype call into a regular one? Henry can hop on for a bit then it can be just us? If that pleases my queen of course.'
She got up and brushed Ruby off, their positions changing as she finished packing, before grabbing her phone charger and then her travel pack of toiletries. "Alright, I think that about covers it except," Emma grabbed the monogrammed blanket from its spot on the bed and tossed it in the bag as well "Have to have it. I'll be sleeping in the mansion and I might need the comfort of home." She ran her hand over her stitched name before zipping the bag closed.
Ruby reached over to grab Emma's hand and smiled at her "I was serious about you needing to text me when you get there. It might only be a four-hour drive but you know I'm going to worry. Especially with you just being back in commission with that wrist of yours," She got up and pulled her into a hug "Go show Storybrooke what a badass you are and have fun with Regina and Henry." The blonde laughed and hugged her back before grabbing her jacket, pulling on the comforting red leather, and then her bags.
Once Ruby had driven off she looked at her phone, seeing two texts. One from Henry telling her that he was going to do his best to talk his mom into a movie night so she wouldn't be too into her phone but he couldn't guarantee it since she was attached to it thanks to Emma. The other was from Regina.
'I suppose I can make an exception for such a noble knight but can we at least see each other tomorrow? That would make the queen very happy and I'm sure prince Henry would love it too.'
She grinned at the mayor's choice of words, she unknowingly would be seeing Emma tomorrow and she agreed that she could make some time for the Mills in her busy schedule before starting the car and pulling away from her apartment building with the GPS guiding her towards Storybrooke.
"Hey Mom, do you think we could watch some movies tonight? It's been a while since we've done a marathon." Regina had to blink back her surprise, she was certain the first thing Henry would ask for was when they'd be Skyping with Emma but she couldn't help herself in feeling touched that he wanted to watch movies with her instead.
"Of course we can, my little prince, we may have to take a break during the marathon for Emma's phone call but I'll let her know that we can't stay on long," She waited until his seatbelt was on before starting to drive home "What did you want to watch? And please don't say you're going to make me sit through all the Star Wars movies." Regina chuckled and pulled to a stop at the red light.
Henry rolled his eyes but nodded, his mother was no Jedi that was for sure "Alright. We won't use the force but you're going to have to watch them with me sometime. How about something from Disney?" She shot him a look in the rearview mirror, arching her eyebrow "No Mom, not Snow White. I know how you feel about it." She was adamant that it painted apples in a horrible light and Snow White was just a little too annoying to listen to.
Regina pressed on, pulling into the driveway when they arrived at their home. Henry was quick to hop out and grab his backpack but she paused a moment to respond to Emma, she was excited that they would be able to see each other the next day, before joining her son. "If you have any homework you should get it done before this marathon. So scoot." She ushered him towards the stairs before going into the living room. If they were going to have a movie marathon she figured she would check their options. As she was looking through the DVDs her phone chimed.
'So what are you and Henry going to do this evening? Since we won't be having a Skype session I mean. Any big plans, your majesty?'
She smiled at Emma wanting to know what they were up to and took a picture of the movies in front of her before typing a message to go with it. It had been weeks of the two of them texting, sharing pictures, phone calls and video calls. They'd integrated each other into the other's life and it was pretty amazing to Regina that she wanted to incorporate Emma into so many things when she was used to it being just herself and Henry.
'Well, noble knight, you are missing out on a Mills Movie Marathon. I'll have you know that means no popcorn or sweets for you while Henry tells you facts about whatever film is on, your loss truly. But you can help me- what do I pick? And don't you dare suggest something horror related for the following reasons; my son will be watching it and I will be unable to sleep which you would be held responsible for. How would you remedy such a thing all the way from Boston?'
Regina started to move through the selection again, knowing Henry had said something about wanting to watch a Disney movie so she grabbed a few from that category. Maleficent, Toy Story, The Lion King and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. She picked up Robin Hood but rolled her eyes, setting it right back next to Snow White and Peter Pan as the three choices she outright refused to suffer through.
'First of all, you're right. It's my loss. I would love to be part of a Mills Movie Marathon I'd probably join Henry in telling facts until you gave us that LOOK that shuts everyone around you up. You have a look, don't deny it because you're a mother and all mothers have the LOOK. Next on the list is that I wouldn't suggest horror with Henry around. I doubt you would get scared but, if you would, I'd be there to protect you. You could even jump into my arms! Again I don't see you doing that. Last but not least since you asked for my help… How about something from Walt Disney's family friendly line? I vote for Brave. I mean, badass chick with insane bow skills that doesn't need a MAN to make her happy? You can't go wrong.'
Regina moved into the kitchen to start on dinner for them, spaghetti and garlic bread with a salad, while she thought about Emma's most recent text. Brave had been tossed into the pile for Henry to pick from right after she'd read it. The idea of her jumping into Emma's arms out of fear from a horror movie was comical, she couldn't see herself doing it either but there was the nice mental image of a pair of muscular pale arms protectively wrapped around her.
She was jolted out of the daydream by Henry joining her in the kitchen, grabbing a water out of the fridge before leaning against the counter. "Homework is finished. Did you figure out some movies for us to watch, Mom?" He asked, watching her slide the garlic bread into the oven before turning around to strain the noodles in the sink. His mother loved to cook and bake, she was in her element in the kitchen and he couldn't wait for Emma to try her amazing food.
"I did. Emma's addition is Brave since you went with Disney movies and I also picked a few out. You know the three I'm always against but you are welcome to pick anything that you'd like. Except for what we're having for dinner as I've already decided. Will you set the table my little prince?" Henry nodded and Regina finished up two plates for them both, grabbing the garlic bread out and adding them to the plate as well.
Turning into the gas station, she got out of her Beatle to stretch her legs and get some snacks as well as fuel. She'd been using speech to text as not to focus on her phone while driving and so she wouldn't leave Regina or Henry wanting for her attention. The last text Emma had gotten was from the younger of the Mills, he'd told her about their delicious dinner and that they were starting the movie marathon off with her choice of Brave. In total they'd settled on Brave, Toy Story, and The Lion King which meant she'd have some time before the phone call they'd settled on having between Brave and Toy Story.
She had to admit Henry was clever to suggest they have a movie night so Regina wouldn't be adamant about a Skype call and she was already an hour and a half into her drive with plans to stop for the night when she was an hour away from Storybrooke. Emma didn't want to risk her bright yellow Beetle being the talk of the town before she was ready to surprise Regina, Henry had told her Storybrooke didn't get visitors pretty much ever and people would be quite interested in seeing someone new. She was getting more and more excited as the miles ticked down, thinking about meeting the Mills.
Emma was getting wrapped up in her thoughts when a text cut through them, her nerves ramped back up at getting caught until she saw that it was Ruby checking in. She hurried to respond, letting her know things were going well enough- Regina was unaware, she was getting closer, and that she was making good time. After filling up her tank she decided to send out one more text.
'I want some movie facts, your majesty. Here's one so Henry isn't alone; did you know that in Brave the archery contest was originally going to be haggis throwing? How's that for a gross factoid? Lemme know if Henry tops it and blows your mind with something else. Also I'm excited for our phone call, it's not video but I'll be seeing you tomorrow to make up for it.'
There was going to have to be a stop by Moe French's flower shop first thing in the morning to get something special for the Mayor as a way to make their first meeting even more memorable. She knew Regina loved receiving them; her lavender roses had been well tended to and then preserved. Maybe apple blossoms? Regina was very proud of her apple tree and loved to use them in her baking. It seemed like a fitting enough flower.
'Haggis throwing? Really? I am glad I didn't have to see that animated. Henry has a fact for your fact, you're welcome for me playing messenger. The will of the wisps are based on a natural occurrence in Scotland of bog gasses that are blue in color. I have to admit, I was impressed by that one. I am also excited for our phone call but you'll have to let us finish the movie so we can call you. Remember this look I allegedly have? I'm giving you one. We'll call you soon enough, dear!'
Emma laughed before putting her phone back into GPS, Regina wanted to watch the movie without distraction and that was good news for her. It meant she would be able to knock out another hour and a half of driving with both Mills preoccupied. She pulled out of the gas station still considering apple blossoms and wondering whether or not Game of Thorns had them in stock.
"Mom, I would never tear our family tapestry if we had one." Henry smiled over at his mother as he took the now empty bowl into the kitchen, knowing it was time to call Emma since the credits of Brave were rolling. Regina laughed and shook her head at her son, as if they'd need a tapestry to represent the two of them. The only other Mills that she'd even want on it would be her father and that was still a very small family history to sew.
She grabbed Henry's empty water bottle, putting it into their recycling, before pulling out her phone once she was back on the couch. Henry joined her and was all smiles at the possibility of talking to Emma. "You know, in a week or two her wrist might be healed up and we'll have to talk about her coming for a visit. I think we need to get started on making up that guest room," She smiled at her son before pulling up Emma's contact information "We also have to decide what all we want to show her in Storybrooke. Depending on how long she'll be staying with us for we might not be able to cover everything."
Henry smirked but nodded; he was excited that they'd still kept his mother unaware. He leaned over to press the call button on her phone before hitting speaker while it rang. She gave him a look before just waiting as the ringing continued, maybe she should have texted her first to see if she was free?
"Hello, you've reached the noblest of all knights Emma Swan, do you have a castle that needs protected? Please press one. A queen that is lacking in guards? Press two. A-" "Two please. Hey Emma!" Henry cut her off before she could go through the whole speech. Emma laughed on the other end but it was dwarfed by a lot of wind.
"I had a whole list prepared Henry! You didn't even let me get to the dragons or curses! How goes movie night for my favorite Mills clan? I don't have another fact for Brave at this moment but I can probably think of a few more for the others. Did you know Lion King is based on-"
"Hamlet by Shakespeare," Regina cut in with a smile "Where are you Miss Swan? It's very noisy." As if on cue the wind suddenly stopped on the other end, Emma rolled up her window and silently cursed at her need to enjoy the breeze.
"Oh right, my window was down. Sorry, I'm driving. I went and had a late dinner with Ruby. It was nowhere near as fun as movie/trivia with the Mills but she told me to say hi on her behalf." Emma covered and was proud of herself for still keeping up the facade that she was in Boston instead of on her way to them.
"You could have had spaghetti if you were here, my mom makes a great dinner. Her lasagna is the best and when you come visit us in a couple of weeks you'll have to try it! I'm gonna run up and take a bath before we start Toy Story- okay mom?" Henry didn't even wait for Regina to answer, although she was going to agree it was a good idea, before heading up the stairs.
Regina was a little shocked that he hadn't stayed to finish the phone call with Emma but she shrugged it off, flipping the speakerphone off and putting it to her ear. "I guess that just leaves you and I, Em-ma. Have you been working on any of the Spanish homework I've given you? There will be tests after all." She teased, happy that the blonde had been insistent on learning more every time they spoke. It was nice to be able to converse in a language she hadn't used much since her father had passed away even if the other party still had a lot to learn.
"Si Profesor Mills, he estado practicando." Emma said with a proud smile, she was hoping to get good enough to ask Regina out on a date in Spanish and she'd even been practicing on her own. Sometimes Henry would join in on the lessons over Skype and it was funny to see him speak it. Regina would watch him with such pride in her eyes when he spoke and the blonde bondswoman would never tire of watching the two Mills interact with each other, they were a perfect little family. "Will you be administering this test when I come visit? I'll have to bring an apple for the teacher after all."
The mayor couldn't help but laugh, Emma's favorite sound these days even though she hadn't admitted it yet "You want to bring me an apple? When I have a tree full of them? It's a sweet gesture but I have plenty for the whole class- all two of my students. I'll even make turnovers or a pie for the day of the test. Speaking of your visit… how is your wrist doing? If you get out of that brace soon you'll let us know?" Regina got up to switch the movies over, something to do with her hands now that she was a little nervous. Every time she thought about Emma being in Storybrooke she got so nervous she could hardly sit still, she was worried that once the blonde was there it would be different somehow.
"I think that's a really hard choice, Madam Mayor, between pie or turnovers and I'd have to say it's the teachers discretion," She felt a little guilty as she carried on but she told herself that the ends would justify the means on this one "My wrist is feeling a lot better to tell you the truth, I might be headed to Storybrooke sooner than we think. I hope you've got a spare room waiting for me. Or if not I'll take the couch." Emma had a feeling the room wouldn't be ready yet since she was surprising her so she wanted to offer up an option.
Regina couldn't help but look over to the empty spot on the couch, picturing a blonde curled up beside her and her fingers twitched as she thought about running them through her golden hair. "You want to sleep on our couch? Unacceptable, Miss Swan, absolutely not. I'd sooner offer you my bed." She was still so lost in her daydream of Emma on the couch with her that she didn't realize what she'd said.
"You sure about that, your highness? I might be a cuddler and how would the queen even react to one of her knights trying to snuggle up to her?" She asked and that pulled Regina out of her head, blinking at the question. If Emma tried to cuddle her how would she react? Part of her knew she'd be guarded and cautious but the other part wanted nothing more then to melt into pale arms and hide her face in golden curls.
She chuckled "I suppose it would depend on the knight but if she was noble, kind, caring, sweet, and funny… Maybe I would consider cuddling with her. Of course she'd have to know some Spanish and get along well with the kingdom's prince, he's quite protective of the queen you know." Regina turned to see Henry, dressed in pajamas with wet hair, going into the kitchen and then start a new bag of popcorn for their next movie.
"Speaking of the handsome prince, he's back from his quest to the pools of rejuvenation. It's time we watch the moving paintings again," Emma laughed at her attempt at a joke "Be careful riding your steed, kind knight. Send me a text when you do get home, I want to make sure you're safe. Any facts about Toy Story I can pass along? Give me a leg up on this trivia war?"
Emma didn't respond right away, thinking it over for a few minutes. "Did you know that Woody was originally going to be a ventriloquist dummy? They tossed the idea out since the dummies are associated with so many horror movies and they didn't want to frighten kids. Not much in way of facts but it's true. I'll text you when I get home, Regina but here's a fact for you. Did you know in Latin your name means queen? Okay maybe not my best fact but… I've got another one- it's a fact that I would be honored to share your bed. Talk to you later, Madam Mayor. Tell Henry good night for me."
Regina smiled, all of her facts were interesting but the last one was what had her smiling almost from ear to ear as she said goodbye and ended the phone call. She got up to get a drink and ruffle her son's still damp hair "I hope you're ready to enjoy some toys coming to life. Also Emma says good night and her wrist is feeling a lot better as of late so her trip might be coming up soon," She handed him a bottle of water before kissing his cheek "That's the last bowl of popcorn for the night, my little prince."
The two Mills got back on the couch and Regina started the movie up, still wearing a faint smile as she could hear Emma saying 'I'd be honored to share your bed.'