Chapter 3 Changes aren't easy and often not welcomed
Regina approached Maleficent with a fierce determination in her eyes. "How dare you," she seethed, her gaze fixed on Maleficent. "Using mine and Emma's daughter as a pawn to get back at me."
Maleficent smirked, her expression unapologetic. "Damn right," she retorted. "Graham, (notices Regina flinch at the name) that's right I know who got you pregnant that night," Maleficent's fire in her eyes, "Graham wants me to be a part of Devin's life too."
Emma, holding three-year-old Devlin, felt a surge of protectiveness wash over her. Devlin, innocently twirling Emma's hair, sensed the tension and clung tighter to her. The mention of Devin's biological father, who had granted a partial custody to Maleficent, stirred uneasy mixed emotions in Emma.
"You both have no right to claim ownership over my daughter." Regina spat, her voice dripping with disdain. "you showed in interest in her until now. How dare you use a child to see revenge against me."
"I told you I'd get my revenge" Maleficent's tone is smug. "Devlin, it is now time to come with me." Maleficent commands.
Regina's voice trembles with a mix of anger and sadness as she responds, "Is this what it has come to, Maleficent? Using a child as a weapon? I thought we had moved past this."
Emma's grip on Devlin tightens, her protective instincts kicking in. She looks at Maleficent with defiance. "Devlin is our daughter Maleficent. We have loved and cared for her since the day she was born. You can't just waltz in now and claim her."
Maleficent's smirk widens, her eyes glinting with a twisted satisfaction. 'Oh but I can, Emma. Graham has rights as Devlin's biological father, and he wants me to be a part of her life. You can't deny him that."
Regina's voice grows colder, her words laced with determination. "Graham maybe Devlin's biological father, but he has never been nor will he be a father figure in her life, he didn't want that. Emma and I have been her parents, her source of love and stability. You can't just disrupt her life for your own revenge."
Emma takes a step forward, her voice filled with a mix of anger and protectiveness. "we will fight for our daughter. We will do whatever it takes to keep her safe. You won't tear our family apart."
Maleficent's eyes narrow, her tone dripping with venom. "We'll see about that, won't we? The law is on my side"
Regina's eyes filled with a mix of fear and determination. She stepped forward "Maleficent, I don't know what you did, or what judge you bribed to get legal rights, but you will never have the love and bond that Devlin shares with us."
Maleficent expression hardened, her eyes narrowing. "We'll see about that," she sneered, her voice laced with a dangerous edge. "Devlin, you either come with me now, or the police will come get you and take you from your parents." Maleficent threatens.
Regina's eyes glare with fire, not believing her ex-partner would stoop so low as to use police against a three-year-old. "Just when I thought you couldn't sink any lower, Maleficent." Regina locks eyes with Maleficent. "Threatening to call the police on an innocent. Is that the kind of person you've become?"
Maleficent shrugged, a cold indifference in her expression. "then hand her over" She said dismissively, as if Devin's well being meant nothing to her. "Here's the deal, you don't hand over Devlin,, you defy a court order. You end up in jail, and I'll get Devlin for longer." Maleficent didn't back down from Regina. "you have half an hour before my driver and Devin's nanny will be here to decide how it's going to go down."
Emma's grip on Devlin tightened, as Devlin continued to twirl Emma's hair anxious."
Regina's blood ran cold at Maleficent chilling words. The weight of the situation settled heavily on her shoulders realizing the gravity of the choice they were facing. Defying court order could have serious consequences, potentially resulting in a longer separation from Devlin.
Emma's hasn't let go Devlin, Devlin whispering while twirling her hair, not to make her go."WE can't let her win, Regina."
Regina took a deep breath, her mind racing with thoughts of the potential outcomes. She knew that they had to make a decision, and the make it quickly. The clock was ticking. "We will not be manipulated"
Maleficent pointed to her watch as she got into her limo and had the driver drive her away.
Regina swiftly dialed their lawyers number, her heart pounding with urgency. She knew that seeking legal advice was crucial. After explaining the circumstances and Maleficent threat and intent and the court order, the lawyer instructed Regina and Emma to follow the court order for now to avoid jail time that could give Maleficent cause to go for full custody. Their lawyer will file paperwork to stop the custody order.
As the knock on the door echoed through the room, Regina and Emma exchanged a tense glance. They knew that this moment they had been dreading, the moment when they would have to confront reality of Maleficent's threats.
Regina took a deep breath, steeling herself for what was to come. She walked towards the door, her heart pounding in her chest. With each step, her determination grew stronger. She opened the door to find the nanny standing there, a neutral expression on her face. The sight of the waiting limo on the side of the road intensified the gravity of the situation.
Regina's voice was firm, yet filled with a mix of emotions "I'm sorry, but Devlin will not be going with you today."
The nanny's face remained impassive, but Regina' could sense a flicker of uncertainty in her eyes. She knew that the nanny was caught in the middle, following orders but perhaps questioning the morality of the situation.
Emma stood by Regina's side, still holding onto Devlin, who's still twirling Emma's hair. "Devlin is our daughter and she will not be used as a pawn in your bosses little game of revenge."
The nanny hesitated for a moment, her gaze shifting between Regina and Emma, and the waiting limo. Finally she spoke, her voice tinged with sympathy. "I understand your postilion, but I have my orders. I hope you can find a resolution soon.'
The limo leaves and 15 minutes later comes back now accompanied by two police cars. The gravity of the situation intensified.
Devlin had been sitting looking at a book not paying attention thinking everything is was okay.
Emma glanced at Regina with a worried look.
As the police cars came to a stop, two officers stepped out, their expression serious and professional. They approached Emma and Regina' their presence a stark reminder of the legal complexities they were up against.
One of the officers spoke his words firm but not unkind. "We have received a court order to enforce this custody arrangement. We are here to ensure the safe transfer of the child."
Regina's voice trembled slightly but her determination remained unwavering. "We understand, but we believe that this custody arrangement is not in the best interest of our daughter."
The officers exchange a glance, their expressions reflecting a mix of sympathy and duty. They understand the complexity of the situation. "we have a duty to enforce the court order. I do hope legal peaceful resolution can be found."
Regina and Emma nodded in understanding. With heavy hearts, they go to hand Devlin over to the office.
As Emma hands Devlin over to the officers, a flash of fear and hurt cross her face, causing Regina and Emma's hearts to shatter. As the look of betrayal in Devlin's eyes pierce right through them, they feel the strain on their once unbreakable bond.
Regina's voice quivered with emotion. "Devlin, sweetheart, we love you. We will fight for you no matter what. Please understand that this is not what we want."
Emma's voice cracks as she tries to hold back tears. "We will fight and bring you back kid. Please remember we love you."
But Devlin, overwhelmed by the sudden separation and the confusion of the situation didn't' fully understand what her parents were saying. The trust she had once placed in them had been shaken. She now couldn't help but feel a sense of abandonment and betrayal. As the officers walk her towards the limo, she attempts to run away from them and begins to reaches out to her moms pleading for them to stop them.
Regina and Emma's hearts broke further as they watch Devlin fighting from being put in the limo.
As the night wore on, Regina and Emma found themselves unable to sleep.
The weight of the day's events and the separation from Devlin weighed heavily on their hearts. They tossed and turned, their minds consumed with worry and longing for their daughter.
Thankfully, they were not alone. Ruby and Belle, their loyal friends, stood by their sides offering support and comfort. They understood the pain and anguish Regina and Emma were going through, and they were there with them through everything.
Belle sat beside Regina, her presence a source of strength. She places a gently hand on Regina's shoulder, offering a sympathetic smile "I can't even begin to imagine what you two are going through. Ruby and I are here for you both."
Regina offered a small thank you looking at Belle.
Ruby sat by Emma, her long time best friend. "Emma, Devlin's not going to forget how fiercely you love her." Ruby says knowing her best friends thoughts without Emma even speaking them.
Throughout the weekend, Ruby and Belle remained by their sides, offering comfort, listening ears and unwavering support. They understood the depths of Regina and Emma's love for Devlin.
SUNDAY NIGHT
as the limo pulled up, Regina, Emma, Ruby and Belle anxiously watched as the nanny stepped out, followed by a disheveled and visibly distressed Devlin. Their hearts sank at the sight of their daughter, her tear-stained face and exhausted demeanor revealing the toll the weekend had taken on her.
Devlin's appearance spoke volumes. It was clear that she had not slept well or eaten properly, her disheveled state reflecting the emotional turmoil she had endured. The formal clothes she wore seemed to suffocate her, and they could see her struggling with the uncomfortable textures.
Regina's heart breaks at the sight of her daughter, her eyes welling up with tears. She rushes forwards, scooping Devlin into her arms holding her tightly. "Oh my sweet girl," she whispers, her voice filled with anguish. "What have they done to you?"
Emma stands beside them, her eyes filled with anger and concern. She reaches out to stroke Devlin's hair gently, trying to offer comfort. "We're here, Devlin. We're here for you," she says softly. "You're safe now."
Ruby and Belle approach, their faces etched with worry. Belle places a hand on Regina's shoulder, her voice filled with empathy. "We're here for you both, whatever you need, we'll support you."
Ruby places a hand on Devlin's back her voice gentle and soothing. "Hey kiddo. It's okay now. We're here."
Devlin clings to Regina, her small body trembling with fear and exhaustion. She looks up at her mothers, her eyes filled with tears. "I want to go home" she whispers, her voice filled with vulnerability.
With an aching heart, Regina looks at Devlin. "You are home, Devlin. This is your home, with us"
Devlin tightens her grip on Regina' not allowing Regina to put her down. Regina understands Devlin's need for comfort and security, so she holds her tightly, her arms wrapped protectively around her daughter. She gently strokes Devlin's back, whispering soothing words in her ear. "It's okay, my love. You don't have to let go if you're not ready."
Emma wraps both in her arms. "We're not going anywhere, Devlin."
Ruby and Belle stand nearby offering their presence as a source of comfort and support.
Regina gently sways back and forth, her voice filled with love and reassurance. "We love you. Take all the time you need, my sweet girl."
Devlin gradually begins to relax in Regina's embrace, her grip loosening slightly. She peaks her eyes out and looks at her mom holding her. "Promise?" she whispers, her voice barely heard.
Regina and Emma share a tender smile, their hearts overflowing with love for their daughter. "we promise, Devlin, we're here." Emma replies
Devlin's grip loosens and Regina puts her down. They enter the house and Devlin goes quietly to sit on the couch for a minute looking around, processing where she is.
Ruby and Belle hugged Regina and Emma goodbye. They said their love and bye's to Devlin, who still isn't' really saying anything, just looking around at everybody.
Regina and Emma gave Devlin sometime to settle back in. Devlin makes her way to her room to get changed. "I want new clothes." Regina helps her get into a softer more comfortable pair of clothing. Devlin lets out a sigh of relief. Then asks to be back in Regina's arms.
Regina and Emma gently stroke Devlin's back. Regina voice filled with tenderness. "It's okay, sweetheart. We're here for you. We'll wait for you to talk to us. Just know that mama and I love you bunches and bunches."
Devlin nestled her face deeper into Regina's neck, while still twirling Regina's hair, she finds solace in her moms familiar touch. Devlin's breathing after an hour settled and became rhythmic indication she has fallen asleep with Regina holding her.
Emma and Regina both feeling drained go to their bedroom, Devlin still in Regina's arms. Regina lays Devlin down , who starts to stir. "Shh." Regina lays next to her running her hand through Devlin's hair. "Mommy and Mama are here." Emma lays down on the other side. Regina and her wrap their arms around Devlin holding her.
Emma sighs, frustration evident in her voice "I can't believe this is happening Regina. How can the legal system allow Maleficent to have rights?"
Regina's brow furrows as she leans closer to Emma, Devlin still in between them, seeking comfort in her presence. "I don't understand it either Emma. We've done everything we can to provide a loving and stable home for Devlin, only to have it torn from us while Maleficent plays her game."
"We'll continue to fight this" Emma squeezes them both closer to her. "We have too, I'm not loosing either of you."
The next day
"I'm not going" Devlin runs away and refuses to put her shoes on her. "I'm not leaving Mommy" Devlin has hidden their work keys and took off running.
Regina took a deep breath, trying to remain calm "Devlin, we understand that you're feeling upset about leaving, but running away and hiding isn't going to solve anything."
"Come on out kid and we'll talk" Emma encouraged Devlin.
"No" Devlin replies hiding behind the couch. "I don't want to leave mommy"
Regina's heart sank as she realized something must of happened at Maleficent and now she doesn't want to leave her side.
After 5 more minutes of Devlin stating she's not going and hiding and Emma getting frustrated about not finding her keys to leave for work.
"alright then." Regina said, her voice filled with exhaustion. "Devlin, you can come to work with me. Olivia will be there to help if needed."
Devlin came out of hiding. "I can?"
"Yes, now tell Mama where her keys are."
Devlin went over, climbed onto the book shelf, pulled out one of the books and the keys fell out of the book. "They here."
Emma looks over, takes her keys. "Devlin, I love you and will see you later" She kisses Devlin, then kisses Regina as she rushes out the door to not be late.
As Devlin and Regina arrive at the college, Olivia greets them with a warm smile. She takes Devlin's hand and entertains her while Regina sets up a cozy spot for Devlin under her desk. Devlin settles in, feeling a sense of comfort being with her mom.
Throughout the day, Regina made sure to take breaks and spend time with Devlin. When she couldn't Olivia gladly took her to play games and read stories. Lunch time, Regina, Olivia and some other their students had a picnic with Devlin. The students enjoyed having an energetic little one with them.
Devlin helped Olivia pass out papers and collect papers. Despite whatever happened at Maleficent Regina made sure to make Devlin feel safe and that she can tell her.
Every weekend when Devlin went to Maleficent's it was hell when she came back. Regina ended up pulling her from preschool and taking her to work with her the rest of the semester, it was the one place Devlin behaved and listened.
As weeks went by, Devlin became a part of the classroom and the students enjoyed having her present. During Exams, the ones who had crushes on Professor Regina got deeper crushes when they watched Devlin quietly crawl on Regina's lap, begin to twirl Regina's hair and fall asleep.
It made Regina smile as she watched Devlin help Olivia pass out papers, learning some of her students names. She could tell that Devlin took pride in her role of paper passer. Regina knew that eventually this arrangement would need to come to an end, but with Maleficent now a part of Devlins life and Devlin not adjusting well, she wasn't sure what more she could do. Devlin was an angel when she was with her at the classes.
To be continue...