Chapter 4: Heart-to-Heart
Robin opened the curtains to his bedroom and looked out on Storybrooke. The sun shone brightly and he could feel the warmth through the glass. It had been a week since his trip to New York to stop Henry and bring him back to Storybrooke along with Violet but he still felt as if his lungs were filled with the stale, dirty air of the city. It had been too long since he gone outside and breathed the fresh air while enjoying the sunshine.
Today seemed like the perfect day to do just that.
After changing, he woke Henry and Roland up before returning to his room to see if Margot was awake. She was and she reached out her little hands to him as he picked her up, kissing her cheek. "Good morning, sweetheart," he cooed.
She cuddled against him and he felt his spirits soar. Margot had certainly been a bright spot since losing Regina. He kissed the top of her head as he carried her to the changing table in the nursery. "Let's check your diaper and then get you ready for the day," he said.
"Can I help?" Roland asked, coming into the nursery. He hopped up onto the stool Regina had placed in the room before they had gone to the Underworld and waved at Margot. "Good morning."
"Of course you can help," Roland said, again so proud of Roland for how well he was adapting to being a big brother and how much he loved his sister. "And Margot says good morning back."
Roland chuckled, watching as Robin took off Margot's pajamas and unsnapped her onesie to get to her diaper. He took a deep breath before undoing the diaper. The smell still greeted him before the sight and Roland held his nose. "Eww," he said.
"I know," Robin said, removing his daughter's dirty diaper. "Just hold your breath a bit longer and it'll be gone soon."
"Okay," Roland replied, his voice sounding weird as he pinched his nose closed with his fingers. "But it's really smelly."
Robin nodded, wrapping up the diaper before dumping it into the garbage can right next to the changing table. He quickly sanitized his hands before saying: "Okay, the smell is gone."
"Good," Roland said, releasing his nose. "It was really bad."
"I know," Robin replied, cleaning Margot's bottom before grabbing a clean diaper. "Though your diapers didn't smell much better when you were your sister's age."
Roland shrugged. "I guess diapers are just meant to be smelly."
Chuckling, Robin nodded as he finished putting on Margot's clean diaper. "I think that's a good way to look at it."
"Are we going to put her outfit on her?" Roland asked.
"Not yet," Robin said, just dressing Margot in a clean onesie. "I'll dress her after breakfast."
Roland nodded. "I guess that makes sense. She can't get the outfit dirty."
"Pretty much," Robin said, picking Margot up. "But maybe you can help me pick out the perfect outfit for her after breakfast."
"Okay," Roland replied, taking Robin's hand. "What are we having for breakfast?"
That was a good question. Robin hadn't thought about it yet and so he asked: "What do you want?"
"Can we have pancakes?" Roland asked, looking up at Robin with hope in his eyes. "With chocolate chips? Like Regina used to make?"
"I can try," Robin said, his heart skipping a beat as grief hit him again. "But they won't taste the same."
Roland sighed. "I know. I miss Regina."
"I do too," Robin replied, entering the kitchen with Roland. "But we can try to make her pancakes and share memories of her. It will almost be like having her with us. How does that sound?"
"I guess that sounds good," Roland said, shrugging as his mood turned sad again. Robin took a deep breath and hoped he could buoy his son's spirits soon.
Robin set Margot into her carrier and tickled her stomach, making her kick her legs. "I'm going to get your brother some breakfast and then we can get you some as well," he told her.
"I can help," Henry said, entering the kitchen. "I can feed Margot if you want."
"Thanks, but she looks good for now," Robin said, squeezing Henry's shoulder. "Maybe you can help me try to recreate your mother's chocolate chip pancakes for Roland instead?"
Henry's eyes lit up as he nodded. "I can do that."
Relief filled Robin. "Great. So, where do we begin?"
"I'll get the ingredients if you get the bowl," Henry said. "Then we can meet at the counter again."
"Good plan," Robin replied.
Roland popped up between them, looking up at them with wide eyes. "Can I help? Please?"
"Sure," Henry said. "Once we get everything, you can help us mix. How does that sound?"
"I like that," Roland said, grinning. "Thanks!"
Henry went into the pantry while Robin pulled up the stool Regina kept for Roland to use in the kitchen. Robin held out his hand. "Alright, step on up and remember to be careful, okay?"
Roland nodded as he stepped onto the stool. "Okay, Papa."
"Good," Robin said. "You wait here while I get the bowl down and then when Henry gets back, we can make the pancakes."
He opened the cabinet and pulled down the biggest bowl possible, setting it on the counter. Robin then found the biggest spoon as well as the measuring cups. And as he waited, he also grabbed a spatula so that they were ready to make the pancakes.
"Got everything," Henry said, placing the ingredients on the counter. "Now we need Mom's recipe book."
"I've got it!" Roland declared, reaching over to pull the red book from its resting place. He held it out. "Here it is!"
Henry grinned as Robin took the book. "Thanks, Ro!"
Opening the book, Robin found the pancake recipe as Regina had it flagged as one of their favorites. "So, we need to start with flour…"
"Got it right here," Henry said, opening it. "Let's go."
Together, they added all the ingredients and soon Robin was mixing it up into pancake batter. Henry held up the bag of chocolate chips. "Time to add these!"
"Go ahead," Robin replied, holding out the bowl. "Not too many though."
"You sounded a lot like Mom then," Henry said, thankfully smiling and not growing sad or withdrawn.
Robin swallowed, nodding. "Well, she was a very wise woman."
He set the bowl down and then clapped his hands. "Okay, so the batter is ready. Let me make the pancakes and you two can set the table. Sounds good?"
"Yeah," Henry said, helping Roland down from the stool. "Come on, let's get everything else ready."
Not long after that, they all sat around the table and enjoyed their breakfast. Robin waited to have his pancakes as Margot had grown fussy. So he sat and gave her a bottle, watching as his children ate first.
"So, how are they?" he asked, hoping he came close to Regina's.
"Delicious," Roland said, spitting out bits of pancake as he spoke with his mouth full. "Thanks, Papa."
Hope filled Robin but he swallowed it down as he turned to Henry. "Well?"
"It's good," Henry said, though he didn't smile. "It's just…well…"
"Not as good as your mum's?" Robin asked, his heart sinking into his stomach.
Henry nodded as he softly said: "Yeah."
Roland swallowed another bite. "I like it, Papa."
"Thanks, my boy," Robin said before turning back to Henry. "And I'm sorry."
"It's okay," Henry replied, setting down his fork. "I know we followed her recipe to the letter and that it probably does taste the same. It's just…"
Robin nodded. "I understand. There was just something about her we can never replicate."
"Yeah," Henry replied. "It will always be missing."
"Yeah," Robin echoed softly, the mood deflating around them as Margot finished her bottle.
He placed her against his shoulder as he burped her, studying Henry. Since they had arrived back in New York, neither of them had talked about the Dragon's statement that Regina wasn't completely dead and could be restored to life. Nor had they talked about the key Robin had placed into a small box and left on his vanity. Maybe it was time to talk about it.
Just not here. While now was the time, the breakfast table was not the place. They could talk about it that night once Roland and Margot were asleep for the night.
"May I be excused?" Henry asked, setting his fork down on his empty plate. "And is it okay if I go see Violet today?"
"Is it okay with her father?" Robin asked, raising an eyebrow. He knew Hank Morgan hadn't been a fan of Henry before he and Violet ran off to New York and things hadn't gotten better now.
Henry nodded. "Though we have a limited amount of places where we can go. But it's a start, right?"
"Right," Robin agreed, rubbing Margot's back. "If he's okay with it, then I am as well. Just make sure you check in with your mum and your grandparents as well, okay?"
"I will," Henry said, standing as he picked up his plate. "Thanks, Robin."
He left the room as Robin placed Margot into her carrier. Turning back to the table, he leaned against Henry's chair to look at Roland. "So, I'm going to have my breakfast. Then I thought we could go to the park. How does that sound?" he asked his son.
Roland perked up as his eyes lit up. "Great! I love the park," he said.
"I know," Robin replied. "And I thought it was time to get some fresh air and get out of the house."
"Will the Merry Men be there?" Roland asked, looking hopeful.
Robin rubbed his chin. "I guess I could give your Uncle John a call and see if he wants to come to the park as well."
"Thank you, Papa!" Roland said, bouncing in his chair. He then stood up. "I'm gonna get ready for the park!"
"Not without clearing your plate," Robin told him, pointing to his dirty dish. "You know the rules."
Sheepish, Roland picked up his plate. "Sorry, Papa."
"That's okay," he said. "Once your plate is in the sink, then you can go get ready."
Robin watched as Roland placed his plate in the sink and then left the kitchen to get ready. He made himself a plate of pancakes and sat down with Margot, giving her foot a shake. "Just you and Daddy for now," he said to her.
She cooed as she kicked against his hand. Chuckling, he poured some syrup over his pancakes and cut into them. He took a bite of the pancakes and chewed, better understanding what Henry meant earlier. While the pancakes tasted like the ones Regina had made, there was still something missing. Something only she was able to add to the recipe.
Her love.
Finishing his pancakes, Robin cleaned all the dishes as Henry entered the kitchen with his backpack. "I'll be back later," he said.
"Are you sure?" Robin asked, wiping his hands on a towel. "It's okay if you want to stay at your mum's or your grandparents'. We'll miss you but I'm sure they would love to see you."
"I might go to my grandparents' place," Henry said, shrugging. "I don't know."
Robin nodded, sensing there was more going on. Since returning from New York, Henry had spent most of his time with Robin. But he didn't feel it was just because Henry wanted to sleep in his bed or be closer to his mother. So he decided to press a bit more to see if Henry would give him just a hint about what he was feeling.
"I'm sure they would love to see you," he replied. "And I know you always feel a little better after spending time with them."
"Yeah," Henry said, shrugging again. "I have to think about it."
Robin nodded, deciding not to push anymore. "Alright. You're always welcome here," he reminded Henry.
"I know," Henry replied. "Thanks, Robin."
He hesitated for a moment before hurrying forward, hugging Robin. Robin hugged him back, kissing the top of his head before Henry stepped back. "See you later," he said before leaving the kitchen.
"Bye," Robin called out. "Have fun."
"I will," Henry replied. Robin heard the door open before Henry said: "Bye!"
The door then closed and Robin sighed before heading upstairs with Margot to get them both ready. Roland popped out of his bedroom, dressed in a shirt and jeans as he bounced up and down. "I'm ready, Papa!"
"Good job!" Robin said. "Let me get your sister ready and then I need to change. I'll brush your hair and we should be on our way to the park in no time."
"Can I help get Margot ready?" Roland asked, bouncing on the balls of his feet.
Robin nodded. "Of course you can. Follow me," he said.
They entered the nursery and Robin laid Margot down on the changing table again. He then turned to Roland. "What do you think she should wear?" he asked.
"I know the perfect outfit," Roland said, heading into the closet. He pulled out a bag. "Regina hid this here."
"Oh," Robin replied, surprised. He took the bag and pulled out a cute little overall set with a pink heart on the bib.
Roland nodded. "Regina said that so many people were buying Margot dresses that she also wanted Margot to have some pants to wear as well."
"That doesn't surprise me," Robin said, admiring the little overalls. He remembered Regina telling him about how she preferred to wear her riding breeches to dresses when she was younger, which annoyed her mother. She vowed that Margot would be able to dress however she wanted and it seemed she had started to expand his daughter's wardrobe so it wasn't just dresses.
"I think this will be perfect for Margot's trip to the park," he said, lowering the outfit again. "Let's go find the perfect onesie for her to wear under the overalls."
Roland reached into the back and pulled out a white and pink striped onesie. "I think Regina got this for it."
He chuckled, taking it from Roland. "Regina always was one step ahead of us, wasn't she?"
"Yes, she was," Roland agreed.
They headed back to the changing table and Robin held the outfit out for Margot to see. "Look what Mummy bought you," he said in a sing-song voice.
Roland paused, looking up at Robin. "You called Regina Mummy."
"Yes," he replied. "I know someone else gave birth to Margot but in my heart, Regina is her mum, just like how Emma gave birth to Henry and Regina is his mum as well."
"Oh," Roland said, looking thoughtful. "Could Regina be my mum too?"
Robin paused before looking at his son. "Do you want her to be your mum?"
"Yes," Roland said, crossing his arms as he rested his chin on them. "She did a lot of things mamas do for me and I thought she would be my new mama since Mama is in the afterlife. But now Regina is there too so I didn't know if she could still be my mama or my mum."
"She can," he replied. "Mama is still your mama even though she is not here. And Regina can be your mum even though she isn't here either."
Roland sighed. "I wish I had a mama here."
"I know," Robin said softly. "I do too."
"Mama and Regina are watching over us, right?" Roland asked, sounding close to tears. "They are keeping us safe from the afterlife?"
Robin turned from Margot to look Roland in the eyes. "Yes, they are. And they want us to be happy and enjoy every day together."
"I like the sound of that," Roland said.
"Me too," Robin replied, kissing the top of his head. "So, let's finish getting Margot ready and then we'll head to have some fun."
Roland perked up. "Yeah!"
Chuckling, Robin slid the overalls onto Margot and snapped the straps into place. He picked her up and kissed her cheek. "Mummy certainly had great taste when it came to clothes," he said.
"Now, let's get your hair brushed and your shoes on," Robin said, taking Roland's hand. "And then we can leave."
"Okay, Papa," Roland replied, a spring in his step as they headed downstairs. It seemed his moment of melancholy had passed.
Robin knew there would be more. Grief wasn't easy to shake off. But he hoped that as long as he talked with his son and gave Roland a safe place to be sad, his son would heal and be able to move forward.
Hopefully he would be able to do the same as well one day.
"Can I go on the swings, Papa?" Roland asked once they got to the park. "Please?"
"You can," Robin said, finding a bench that will allow him to watch Roland. "Just be careful. Don't go too high, okay?"
Roland nodded. "I won't, Papa."
He ran over to the swing set as Robin sat down on the bench, looking into the stroller. Margot watched him with her blue eyes, waiting to see what he would do next. Robin smiled as he rubbed her stomach. "Enjoying the fresh air, sweetheart?"
"I'm sure she is. She is her father's daughter."
Robin looked up to see Little John standing by them with a big smile on his face. He moved closer to them as he said: "Hello there, Margot."
"Hello, Uncle John," Robin said, tickling Margot's stomach. "We're both very happy to see you."
"I'm happy to see you, too," John replied, sitting down next to Robin. He then motioned to the swings. "And to see Roland."
Robin nodded, watching as Roland pumped his legs and moved the swing back and forth. "He's happy to be out of the house."
"I'm sure you all are happy to be out of the house," John said. "It's good to see you here."
"It was time we got out of the house," Robin replied. "We've been cooped up inside far too long."
John nodded. "Yeah. Though I don't blame you. Seeing that pirate gallivanting around town makes my blood boil and I know you're not much different, judging by that shiner he's been sporting."
Robin sighed. "Not my proudest moment but I couldn't help myself."
"I don't blame you," John replied. "I feel like punching him and I didn't lose the woman I loved."
"How is everyone else reacting to his return?" Robin asked.
John sighed. "I think this town has seen so much death that they are happy that at least one person came back. So they are fawning over him. Granny and Archie are probably more subdued about it and are the only ones who don't do it when Henry is around."
Things started to click in Robin's mind and he sighed. "That's probably why he's avoiding his grandparents and mum," he said.
"Probably," John agreed. "I think Hook and Emma are living in her house but they do seem to always be at the loft."
"I'll talk with Henry the next time I see him," Robin said, feeling his heart break for Henry. "Hopefully he'll open up to me. He's just so angry and I know that keeping it bottled up is going to hurt him in the long run."
John nodded. "You would be an expert on that."
Robin breathed out, nodding. "I suppose you're right."
"Have you been talking to anyone?" John asked. "I don't blame you for punching the pirate but maybe you should also talk to Tuck. He's always had a way of soothing your anger before."
"I think I'll do that," Robin replied, watching as Roland started to slow down on the swings. "I have a few things I need to talk to him about."
John nodded. "I can send him over to your house later if you want. Or wherever and whenever you want. Just let me know and I can tell him."
"Thanks, John," Robin said softly as Roland raced toward them, yelling his uncle's name. He jumped up and John caught him easily, hugging him tightly.
Roland pulled back but remained on John's lap. "You came, Uncle John!"
Little John chuckled, nodding. "You know I love spending time with you, your sister and your father. We're family."
"Yeah," Roland agreed, leaning against him. "Family."
"I think Uncle John should take you on the slide," Robin said, grinning as he leaned closer to his son. "Don't you agree?"
Roland nodded, looking up at John with big eyes. "Can you, Uncle John?"
John tilted his head as he stroked his chin. "I don't know. I think there's a special word that might change my mind if you say it."
"Please?" Roland asked, looking hopeful that was the right word.
"Ahh, there it is," John said, nodding. "And yes, I will take you on the slide."
He placed Roland on the sidewalk before standing, taking his hand. John winked at Robin. "We'll be back."
Robin leaned back, resting his arm on the back of the bench. "Take your time. We're in no rush."
"Come on, Uncle John," Roland said, starting to pull him away. "Let's go!"
They walked down the path together as Robin leaned forward again, checking on Margot. He smiled as he looked into her eyes, saying: "Your brother and uncle are being silly."
Margot just yawned in response before closing her eyes.
"I see the fresh air and sunshine is lulling you to sleep," he said, starting to rock the stroller. "Sweet dreams, sweetheart."
"She's beautiful," Archie said, making Robin jump as his heart skipped a beat. He looked up to find Archie standing next to the bench.
Archie held up his hands in apology. "Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you."
"It's okay," Robin said, moving over so Archie could join him. "It's usually not that easy to sneak up on me. I guess I'm off my game right now."
"That's understandable," Archie replied. "You have other things on your mind."
Robin nodded, looking down at Margot as she yawned in her sleep. "Yes, I suppose I do. But I just…"
He grew quiet, taking stock of his life. Ever since Marian had walked into Granny's that fateful evening, he hadn't really been at his best. Robin had spent years avoiding being caught and being a successful thief. He had honed several skills to achieve that and it seemed like he had lost all of them in one night.
Maybe he was cursed.
"Robin?" Archie asked, his voice soft. "Are you okay?"
"No," Robin replied. "Not really."
Archie nodded. "Of course not. You've been through a lot lately."
Robin sighed. "I know. But it feels like I haven't really been myself since I got to this realm."
"It was a big change," Archie replied. "This world isn't like our old one. You don't need all the skills you once did."
"I know," Robin said. "But I feel like I've been ignoring things that are important no matter the realm."
Archie frowned. "Like what?"
"My gut."
"I see," Archie said, nodding. "Is this about what happened in Regina's office with Hades?"
Robin sighed. "It's about everything. At some point, I stopped listening to my gut and bad things happened."
Archie frowned. "Like what?"
"Did we just slip into a session?" Robin asked, wondering if this was what happened in the man's office.
"Sorry," Archie said, looking sheepish. "It's second nature to me now, I suppose."
Robin chuckled. "That's okay. I didn't really mind."
"I guess I should've asked if you wanted to talk about it first," Archie replied. "I tend to assume everyone does."
"Of course you do. That's your job," Robin said. "And I do need to talk about…everything. But I have someone."
Archie nodded. "Okay. You know where to find me though if you need me."
"I do," Robin replied. "Thank you."
"You're welcome," Archie replied. He then motioned toward the slide as Roland went down, landing in John's arms. "How is Roland doing?"
Robin sighed. "As well as can be expected, I suppose. Some days are better than others but he's just been through so much. I'm also worried because Regina took his memories of our time in New York but he seems to have gotten them back so he has to deal with that as well."
"I can't explain anything to do with magic," Archie replied. "I leave that for those more learned about that than me. But I can help him process his memories, if you want."
"I don't know what I want," Robin admitted. "I feel like I'm lost and stuck, unable to move forward even though I know I need to."
Archie nodded. "That's to be expected, honestly. It hasn't been long since you lost Regina. You're still working through your grief."
Robin sighed. "I know. But I also know that if I don't start moving soon, I can get even more stuck and that won't be good for me or my children."
"At least you know that," Archie replied. "So I believe there's hope you will find a way to move forward again soon."
"I wish I had your optimism," Robin said, sighing.
"You will," Archie said. "You'll see."
Roland ran up to Robin, his cheeks pink and his eyes bright. "Can we go get ice cream with Uncle John, Papa?"
"What do you say?" Robin asked, leaning forward as he pulled Roland closer to him.
"Please," Roland said, bouncing up and down.
John came up behind Roland, clasping his hands as he asked: "Please?"
Robin chuckled as he nodded. "I think we can squeeze in some ice cream. Would you like to come, Archie?"
Archie shook his head, smiling as he stood. "I think I'll pass this time but you all enjoy your ice cream. I hope to see you all again soon."
"You too," Robin replied, watching as Archie walked away. He then stood and gripped the stroller. "Well, then, I think we should start heading toward the car so we can drive to the ice cream store. Everyone agree?"
"We do," John said, hoisting Roland onto his shoulders. "Let's go!"
Chuckling, Robin pushed the stroller toward the road. He knew he had to keep pushing himself forward and soon, he wouldn't feel as stuck. It would be what Regina wanted him to do.
He wasn't going to let her down again.
"Henry, can we talk?" Robin asked, wiping down the table after dinner. Margot was already asleep for the night and Roland was watching a cartoon in the living room ahead of his bedtime.
Henry looked up from his homework, frowning. "What about?"
Robin sat down, knowing he had to broach this topic carefully. "I want to say that I love having you around and that this is your house so you are always welcome to be here."
"Okay," he said, looking and sounding confused.
"However, I'm concerned that you're staying here more to avoid going to your grandparents' loft," he continued. "Are you avoiding them?"
Henry shrugged but kept his eyes fixed on the table. "I just like being here rather than there. It's not as cramped."
Robin, though, knew that wasn't the entire truth. "So why don't you go spend time with Emma? She still has that big house, right?"
"Yeah," he replied. "But she's still settling in and I don't really feel comfortable there yet. I prefer being here. Can we leave it at that?"
"I would love to," Robin said, knowing he had to keep pushing at least a little bit more. "But if you're not feeling comfortable at your grandparents or your other mum's, I want to help you feel comfortable in your own home."
Fire burned in Henry's eyes. "This is my only home."
Robin paused, surprised by the response. He took a deep breath before asking: "But didn't you and Emma pick out that house together? So it could be your home together?"
"Yes, but it's not our home," he said, his anger clear. "It's now her home with him."
"You mean Hook," Robin said, sensing they were getting closer to the root of the issue. "He's why you feel uncomfortable."
Henry nodded, tears filling his eyes. "It's not fair, Robin. Why did Zeus think he was worthy to send back and not Mom? She's been more of a hero than him."
Robin sighed, covering Henry's hand with his own. "I know. It hurts me too."
"I want to be happy for Mom. I know she and Hook love each other and she deserves some happiness," Henry said, the tears now rolling down his cheeks. "But I miss Mom so much and wish she had been able to have the same happiness.
"It's also hard because they are acting so happy," he continued, his face growing red. "It's like they've forgotten Mom died only a couple weeks ago. Everyone is smiling and saying how great this is and how we should celebrate. I feel like I'm the only one grieving and that I don't belong there because I'm not happy about Hook. That he's the only one who matters."
His voice broke at that last sentence and Robin rushed forward, gathering Henry in his arms. Robin rocked him as he cried, wondering how long Henry had been keeping this pain inside and why the Charmings hadn't realized it.
Then he decided it didn't matter. He would do what Regina would do - confront them and knock some sense back into them.
"Sorry," Henry said, pulling away and trying to wipe his face with his sleeve.
"Don't apologize," Robin told him, handing him a tissue box. "I'd rather you let these emotions out than keep them in."
Henry nodded, blowing his nose. "Anyway, I really like being here. So can I stay?"
"Of course you can," Robin assured him. "As I said, you are always welcome here and we love having you here. This is your home and you will always be part of our family, no matter what."
"Thanks, Robin. I love you," Henry said, hugging him again.
Robin kissed the top of his head. "I love you too."
He held Henry close, deciding that now was not the right time to discuss possibly bringing Regina back from the dead. Not when Henry was so emotionally raw. It was probably best to wait until he rectified the Hook situation and made sure Henry felt comfortable with his grandparents and his other mother first.
Pulling back, Robin asked: "Do you want me to talk with your grandparents and your mother? About the Hook situation?"
"Yes," Henry said, looking relieved. "You don't mind?"
"Not at all. I don't like that you feel so out of place with them and I know your mum would hate it," Robin replied.
Henry nodded, smiling now. "She would chew them up."
Robin chuckled as he imagined Regina laying into the entire Charming family. "So I'm going to do it in her stead, if you don't mind."
"I don't," Henry said, looking relieved. "Thanks, Robin."
"You're welcome," Robin said. "And I hope you know you can come to me about anything. I will listen and not judge you. Promise."
Henry nodded. "I know. You never judged my mom."
Robin's heart warmed as he nodded. He then patted Henry's hand. "Do you want to watch some TV with Roland? Or do you want to just head upstairs to bed?"
"TV sounds good," Henry replied. "Can we get some dessert with that?"
"Of course," Robin said, standing. "Granny sent over a pie the other day. Do you want a slice?"
Henry nodded. "Do we have ice cream so we can have it a la mode?"
"We do," Robin said, glad Roland convinced him to buy some ice cream while they were at Any Given Sundae. He opened the freezer and pulled it out. "Pie a la mode, coming up!"
They carried out the slices of pie to the living room, where Roland was excited for his dessert. All three sat together on the couch, watching a movie as they enjoyed the treat together. Robin sighed happily, glad he could share these little moments with the two boys. But there was still sadness tinged there as he wished Regina was there with them.
And that was a feeling he knew he was just going to have to get used to.
Robin sat at Granny's, a cup of coffee in front of him as he watched the front door. His stomach twisted into knots, hoping this conversation went well and didn't make things worse for Henry. But he knew he had to try. After he said his piece, it would then be up to the Charmings.
Hopefully, they did the right thing.
The door opened and his heart sank as Emma and Hook stepped into the diner. He had asked Snow and Charming to meet with him, hoping they would be more open to what he had to say and could talk with Emma for him. But it seemed fate had other plans. So he took a deep breath and hoped their conversation still went well.
After all, they all wanted what was best for Henry.
Emma and Hook both slid into the seats opposite Robin. The sunlight coming through the window illuminated the yellowish bruise still under Hook's eye from when Robin had hit him. But Robin still felt no remorse about it and continued to look right at Hook, ready to leave if they demanded an apology before they even talked to him. He would then wait until Snow and Charming could talk with him.
"My parents sent their apologies," Emma said by way of greeting. "Both Neal and my father seem to have come down with some sort of bug and so my mother needs to take care of them."
"I hope they feel better soon," he replied. "I guess, though, this might be better. I wanted to talk about Henry."
Emma frowned. "What about Henry?"
He took a deep breath before asking: "Have you noticed that he hasn't been spending a lot of time with you and your parents? That he's instead been spending most of his time with me?"
"I've noticed," she replied tersely.
"We just assumed the lad wanted to feel closer to his other mother," Hook said. "We were just giving him time."
Robin's jaw tensed and he was glad he had clasped his hands together. He couldn't believe those words had left Hook's mouth. "Is that so?" he asked, not hiding his contempt.
Emma bristled as she crossed her arms. "Yes, of course."
"I have trouble believing that when you've pretty much shoved Hook in his face while he's still trying to mourn his mother," Robin told her. "How is that giving him time?"
"I'm not shoving Hook in his face," Emma said. "You're just projecting your anger and disappointment onto him."
That didn't surprise him but still annoyed him. "This is why I wanted to talk to your parents. I knew you wouldn't be open to what I was saying and would find a way to just blame me."
Emma raised her eyebrow. "You thought my parents wouldn't see through you? Or wouldn't call you out on it?"
"None of that," he said hotly. "I knew they would be willing to talk with Henry. To listen to him and do what is best for him."
"And you think you know what's best for him?" she asked, her eyes burning. "I'm his mother. You were just his mother's boyfriend and you're not even that anymore. You're nothing to him."
Robin felt the temperature around him drop several degrees as he glared at her. He knew that she had a point but he also knew that Henry saw him as another parent-figure. And in the end, that was all that mattered. So he would continue to advocate for Henry, even if Emma didn't want to hear what he had to say.
He leaned forward. "You can tell yourself that but I think he sees it differently. So I'm here on his behalf and I'm not leaving until I make sure you understand how he sees the situation and take steps to make things better."
"Then you're going to be here for a long, long time," Emma said, starting to slide out of the booth. "Come on, Killian."
"Wait, Swan," Hook said, gently placing his hook over her wrist to stop her. He kept his eyes on Robin as he said: "I think we should hear him out."
She frowned. "Are you serious? He punched you and now says you shouldn't be around my son. Why should we listen to him?"
"Because if the situation was reversed, I would hope that Regina and Robin would listen to me in your stead," he said. "We all love Henry and want what's best for him. That gives us a good place to start."
"Thank you," Robin said softly, glad at least one person at the table was on his side.
Emma looked between him and Hook before huffing as she sat back down again. "Okay, but if you insult Hook, I'm leaving."
Robin tried not to glare at her again as he said: "I'm not here to insult Hook. I'm just here to explain how Henry feels and come up with a solution so he doesn't feel isolated from his family."
"He isn't isolated," Emma insisted.
"I know," Robin replied. "But he feels like he is. That's what we need to fix."
She looked down before she said: "But I don't think the solution is never bringing Hook around him."
He took a deep breath before saying: "I agree. I just think you need to limit how much Hook is around until Henry's processed everything that's happened. Maybe start with an hour or a meal?"
"That sounds reasonable, Swan," Hook said. "I can spend the nights Henry is with you on the Jolly Roger or he can stay with your parents. Whatever he wants and works best for everyone."
"I think that's a good compromise," Robin replied, nodding. "Thank you."
Hook's eyes softened. "I care for the lad like a son too."
"I know," Robin said, certain of that fact. "That's why I knew we could reach a compromise."
"There's another way we could resolve this," Emma said, crossing her arms. "If Henry misses Regina that much, you could just bring her back."
Robin frowned, thinking of the key tucked away in Regina's jewelry box. "It's not that easy."
Emma hummed. "But it is possible."
"It might not solve all your problems, if that's what you're thinking," he said, annoyed that she just wanted to bring Regina back to make her life easier. "It might make them worse."
"I get it but I think the greater good may outweigh everything right now," she said. "This town needs Regina."
Hook looked between Robin and Emma, frowning. "I feel like I'm missing something."
She didn't look away from Robin as she said: "Don't worry about it. I'll explain when we're at home."
"This town may need Regina but I think the better question is if this town deserves Regina," Robin said, his anger again spiking. "As much as I would love to have her back with me and our family, I'm not going to bring her back just so she can save everyone's arses while you get all the credit."
"Emma also saves everyone," Hook argued, now defending his girlfriend. "She is the Savior."
Robin bit back his bark of laughter, swallowing it down. Instead, he said: "Name the last time she saved anyone."
"Regina," Hook replied. "She saved Regina from the darkness. Remember that?"
"Okay," Robin said, though he remained undaunted. "That is true but…"
Emma nodded. "So don't try to sit there and claim I don't care about Regina. I did that for her."
He sighed. "You did that. But am I still wrong about your motives for wanting her back now?"
"Look, I'll admit having Regina back would solve a lot of problems," Emma replied. "But that's not entirely why I want her back. I do miss her."
"I almost believe you," he said, his anger still coursing through him.
Hook held up his hands. "It seems I have to be the voice of reason again. I think all of us have something to think about and it's probably best if we break for now."
Robin sighed, knowing Hook had a point. "Fine. Maybe we should regroup tomorrow?"
"Tomorrow," Emma agreed. "We'll see you here."
"Sounds good," he replied. "See you then."
She slid out of the booth with Hook right behind her. Robin watched as they left before sighing, closing his eyes as he rested his head on the cushion behind him.
"You look like you could either use another coffee or a glass of whiskey." Granny's voice washed over him. "What will it be?"
"Coffee," he said, though he really wanted the whiskey. "I have to go home to my children."
He opened his eyes as Granny nodded. "I'll be right back."
"Thank you," he said, rubbing his face as he tried not to close his eyes again. Thinking felt difficult at that moment and he just wanted to go home to sleep. But with two children wanting for him at home, he didn't have that luxury. Coffee would have to do.
"Here you go," Granny said, setting the coffee cup down in front of him. "Do you want sugar or milk?"
He debated it for a moment before saying: "Milk, please."
She nodded, setting the silver server down. "I figured you would say that. And there are sugar packets on the table in case you change your mind."
"Thank you," he said, appreciative of how well she knew him. He picked up the pitcher and poured the milk into the coffee, lightening it until it was almost the color of Regina's eyes.
Granny then slid into the booth across from him. "Do you want to talk about it?"
He sipped the coffee, hoping the caffeine worked quickly, and shook his head. "I think I've done enough talking today."
"I think you did a lot of yelling today," she replied. "Not sure about talking."
"Maybe we did both," he said, knowing she had a point.
She nodded. "Maybe. So you're still sure you don't want to talk about it?"
He sighed. "I don't know."
"Well, that's a step closer," she said. "I promise I'm a good listener."
"I know," he replied after swallowing another sip of coffee. "But my mind feels like mush. I need time to process it and then I'll talk it out with Tuck."
She sighed but nodded. "As long as you do talk to someone."
He swallowed another sip before asking: "Why is everyone so concerned about me not talking to someone?"
"Because I think we're realizing that there are many ways in which you are similar to Regina," she replied. "And Regina kept too much bottled up. Maybe we're trying to correct the mistakes we made with her as a way to honor her memory."
"It's a shame people didn't appreciate her until she was gone," he said bitterly.
She flinched before nodding. "You're right."
"Thank you," he replied, looking out the window. "She loved Storybrooke but you never really loved her back. I hope she's in a place where she is finally happy."
"I'm sure she is," Granny said. "She was a hero."
He nodded as a lump formed in his throat hearing at least one person in town calling her that. "Yes, she was."
Granny patted his hand. "Once again, if you ever need to talk, I'm here. I'll give you some coffee or food or whatever and then I'll sit and listen. For you and for her."
"Thank you," Robin said. "I'll remember that."
"Good," she replied, sliding out of the booth. "And don't be afraid to bring those children of yours around here. We're family-friendly."
He nodded. "I know. And I will."
That seemed to please her and she walked away as he finished his coffee. He pulled out some money and left it on the table before leaving the diner. With a deep breath of fresh air, he turned and began the walk back home.
"Here," Robin said, handing Tuck and John a glass of whiskey each. "Thanks again for coming."
"We could tell that you needed us," Tuck said as John nodded. "What's the matter?"
Robin sighed as he sat down. "I arranged to speak with the Charmings today about the fact that Henry doesn't feel comfortable with Hook around right now. It, uh, it did not go well."
John frowned. "How so?"
"Well, for starters, Neal and David were sick so Emma showed up instead," he said. "With Hook."
"Oh no," both said, looking horrified.
Robin nodded, swallowing his sip of whiskey. "Yep."
Tuck and John shared a look before Tuck asked: "So what happened?"
"Well, I told them that Henry wasn't comfortable being around Hook all the time right now," he said. "Hook was understanding, Emma was not."
"I guess that was to be expected," Tuck replied.
Robin sighed. "Yes. Which is why I wanted to talk with Snow and David. I thought they might be more neutral."
"Well, that ship has sailed," John said. "What happened next?"
"Emma told me I had the power to fix this," he replied. "By going and bringing Regina back from the dead."
Tuck frowned. "But you can't do that."
"Well, I might be able to," Robin said. "At least, that's what the Dragon told us in New York."
"What?' John asked, blinking a few times. "I don't think you mentioned that before."
Robin swallowed a sip of whiskey before sighing. "Yeah, I probably didn't. I was still trying to process it myself."
"Okay, then tell us about it now," Tuck said. "We're listening."
"Alright," Robin said, setting down his glass. "Then here's what the Dragon told me…"
He told them about the key he was given and the house that would let him find Regina's spirit. "But he said the door was closing so I would have to act sooner rather than later. However, there's no guarantee I can bring her back and a chance I could be stuck there as well."
John's eyes widened. "So you could essentially die as well. Then Roland and Margot would have no parents."
"Yes," Robin replied. "Hence why I haven't gone running to save her."
"Of course," Tuck said. "I'm sure even Emma has to understand that."
John snorted. "We're talking about the woman who led everyone into the Underworld to rescue her boyfriend. She may not be the best judge in this matter."
Tuck sighed. "That is true."
"So why are you letting her get to you?" John asked.
"I don't know," Robin replied. "Maybe I do feel guilty. I once told Regina that I would've crawled through hell to get Marian back. Now I have a chance to get her back and I'm just sitting on my hands."
Tuck shook his head. "You're not just sitting on your hands. You're thinking about Roland and Margot, which is what Regina would've wanted. She was a mother first and foremost and one of the many reasons why she loved you was because you are such a good father."
John nodded. "I have to agree with that. Both you and Regina always put your children first."
"I know," Robin replied. "But I still can't help feeling like a big hypocrite, like I didn't love her the way I thought or the way she deserved."
"You did," Tuck assured him.
John nodded again. "Don't be so hard on yourself."
Robin sighed. "It's hard not to be."
"Why?" Tuck asked.
"Because I'm her soulmate," he said. "And I feel like I've done nothing but fail her over and over again."
John opened his mouth but Tuck held up his hand, asking: "Because you aren't bringing her back from the dead?"
Robin nodded. "Because I'm a coward."
"You're not a coward," Tuck told him. "But is the only reason you're not doing it is because you are afraid you might not come back?"
"It's not the only reason," Robin replied slowly, wondering why Tuck asked that.
Tuck nodded. "Then what are the others?"
Robin sighed. "What if she's in a better place? The Dragon says she's not in the Underworld but somewhere else. What if she's happy there? Wouldn't it be selfish for me to pull her from that happiness?"
"An excellent question," Tuck replied. "But I can't imagine the Dragon would tell you about the chance to rescue her if she was in a better place."
"I have to agree with Tuck," John said. "There has to be a reason why the Dragon would want you to rescue Regina."
Robin took another sip before saying: "Because without her, Storybrooke will disappear."
Both their eyes grew wide as Tuck asked: "What?"
"Yeah," Robin said. "Those earthquakes happened because Regina is gone. Her magic built the town and now that she's gone, it's slowly deteriorating. Emma was given something to slow it but it will eventually disappear without her."
"Shit," John replied, looking concerned. He then looked down into his glass. "I might need some more whiskey."
Tuck nodded. "Me too."
Robin checked his own glass before standing. "I'll go get the whiskey but I would advise only one more glass. It's getting late."
"One more sounds good," Tuck agreed as John nodded this time.
"Alright," Robin said. "Then I'll be right back."
He walked into the dining room and opened the liquor cabinet. After retrieving the bottle of whiskey, he returned to the living room and handed the bottle to John. "There. We can pass it around," he said.
John poured some whiskey into his glass as he chuckled. "Feels like the old days when we would pass around a bottle while sitting by the fire in the middle of camp," he said.
"It does," Tuck agreed, taking the bottle from him. "These chairs are more comfortable."
"Yes, they are," Robin agreed. "And we don't have to worry about wild animals or the Sheriff's men finding us."
John sighed, nodding. "Would we have to go back to that if Storybrooke disappears?"
Robin shrugged. "I don't know. But with the money Regina left the children, I think I would be able to get a nice house. You two could always come with us."
"Thank you," Tuck said. "But I hope we don't have to leave Storybrooke."
"Neither do I," Robin replied. "Which also makes me feel guilty about not going to get Regina. She loved this town so much and I know she would want to save it."
Tuck nodded. "But?"
Robin sighed. "But I don't want to bring her back just so she can save the town and then everyone treats her like shit again."
"I don't think the town will treat her like shit," John said. "People seemed to be genuinely sad about her death."
"True," Robin replied, considering his words. "Okay, I don't want people to take her for granted again. Because once they finish celebrating the fact she's back, you know they will do that."
John pressed his lips together before sighing. "Can't argue with you there."
"Neither can I," Tuck said. "You do have a point there."
"Yeah," Robin replied. "So those are the two reasons that circle around my head and all seem to revolve around one question - would bringing Regina back just be selfish?"
They lapsed into silence as he sipped his whiskey. He watched John and Tuck, waiting to hear what they thought. Maybe they would try to convince him that bringing Regina back wasn't selfish but deep down, he knew it was. She had to be in a better place.
He hated to think she wasn't.
"I don't know if it would be selfish," Tuck said finally, his voice soft. "But here's the thing - I don't think this is your choice to make."
"What do you mean?" Robin asked, frowning. "The Dragon said…"
Tuck held up his hand. "Don't think about what the Dragon said. If you think about this, it's really Regina's decision if she comes back or not. So I think you need to ask her. She'll let you know her answer."
Robin frowned. "How?"
"I don't know that," Tuck said. "But I do know she will. You just need to be ready to receive it - whether you need to hear it or see it."
"I'll do my best," Robin replied. "But what if she never answers?"
Tuck rubbed his chin. "Then we'll figure it out. However, I think she will answer. You just need to ask her."
Robin sighed but nodded. "Alright, I'll do that."
"Good," Tuck said, leaning back. "So, shall we finish the night with a more pleasant topic?"
"I think so," John replied. "Let's talk about Roland and Margot."
Robin chuckled. "I think I've done enough talking. You two talk. What's going on with you? With the other men who stayed? I think we might need another meet up soon to catch up."
Tuck nodded. "I think so as well. But I don't think much has happened since our last one. You've done the most out of all of us."
"Maybe," Robin said. "I still want to hear about the mundane things. I've had enough extraordinary things for right now. Please, just tell me about your days. I want to hear it. Promise."
"Okay," John replied, setting his glass down. "Do you want to hear about my leaky sink, then?"
Robin nodded. "Yes, please."
John chuckled but started to talk about the sink leaking in his kitchen. Sipping his whiskey, Robin leaned back and just focused on his friend's story. There were still plenty of questions to answer and decisions to be made but not at that moment. For now, he was just a man hanging out with his friends.
Everything else could wait.
"I'm coming, sweetheart, I'm coming," Robin said, hurrying up the stairs as Margot's cries echoed through the monitor. Tuck and John had left a little while ago and Robin had been cleaning up before turning in himself. Margot, though, had other plans for him.
He entered the bedroom and turned on the light, walking over to the bassinet. He picked her up, rocking her. "Daddy's here," he told her. "Daddy will make you feel better."
She quieted a little in his hold. He continued to rock her as he tried to figure out what she needed. It didn't sound like she was hungry so he checked her diaper, realizing it was dirty. That was an easy fix and he started to walk toward the nursery. "Let's get you cleaned up and into a fresh diaper. That should make you feel better," he said.
Once Margot was in a clean diaper, she started to whimper again. "Now that you're clean, you're hungry, huh?" he asked her. "Okay, let's go get you a bottle.
"You are certainly giving me a workout tonight," he told her as he went back down the stairs again. She just continued to fuss as he entered the kitchen, easily preparing a bottle with one hand. He had certainly become a pro at that.
Margot happily drank her formula as he walked back upstairs. "Let's go sit in the rocking chair," he told her. "That will be more comfortable for your old man."
He walked into the nursery again and sat in the rocking chair by the window. Margot settled into the crook of his left arm as he rocked them gently, sighing. She pressed her feet against his right arm, one foot brushing his tattoo. It made him think again of Regina, swallowing as he wished she was there to experience these moments with him and Margot.
"I miss your mum," he told Margot. "I really wish she was here."
She just blinked in response.
He sighed, leaning his head back against the chair. Recalling Tuck's words, Robin decided to take his advice. "Regina, if you can hear me, please send me a sign to help me figure out what to do next. Any sign that would tell me if you are happy where you are and want to stay or want me to come get you. I will respect your decision. We love you and will love you no matter your decision."
Margot finished her bottle and yawned. Robin chuckled, resting her against his shoulder as he patted her back. "One good burp and then we can both get some sleep," he told her. She burped shortly after that.
Robin waited until Margot fell asleep before putting her back in the bassinet. He ran the bottle down to wash it out and place it in the dishwasher and then returned to his room. After changing into his pajamas, he collapsed on the bed with a groan. His arm went to the empty side of the bed and he pulled her pillow to him. Curling around it, he fell asleep with her scent surrounding him.
He was in the forest around Storybrooke.
Robin walked down a path, not sure where he was heading. Something just pulled him in that direction and he followed it. He crossed over a small running stream that cut through the forest and avoided some rocks that seemed to have fallen there at one point. Or maybe some villain had thrown them there. Anything was possible in Storybrooke.
Past the rocks was a fork in the room. He paused for a moment before turning down the left path. It was covered with undergrowth and he had to watch for roots as he continued on his journey. Robin didn't know where he was going but he knew he needed to get somewhere soon.
He pushed some low branches out of his way before stepping into a clearing. Ahead of him was a large house, almost like a manor house or a small castle. It didn't look like the one the Apprentice called home and he wondered how many people lived in the woods outside Storybrooke. But he knew this was his destination.
Something whizzed past him, a whistling noise piercing the air. He turned and found an arrow protruding from a tree. Robin stepped closer to it, noticing something wrapped around the shaft. He removed it and realized it was a piece of paper, which he unrolled.
BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!
Robin groaned as he woke up, reaching out to silence his alarm. He rolled over to check on Margot. She was awake but seemed content to just lay there so he laid back down as well, trying to process the dream he had. The Dragon had said Robin would find where Regina was when the time was right. Did that dream mean it was time? Was that the sign he had asked Regina for?
He stretched out in bed and raised his hands over his head. Robin realized his left hand was balled into a fist and he slowly opened it, finding the parchment from his dream inside. With his heart pounding, he sat up and unrolled it. Regina's familiar handwriting filled it and he swallowed as he read the note.
Save me.
A/N: I really struggled with this chapter, which is why it's been so long since my last update. I started it over several times but it kept going in a direction where Robin didn't seem like he would ever go rescue Regina.
And that certainly wouldn't do.
Thankfully, I found another way to go.
So, will Robin be able to find Regina? Where exactly is she? And how will Robin save her?
Find out soon! As long as I don't struggle with the next chapter the way I did with this one.
-Mac