Life goes on, and everyone gets on with their lives. And Snow and Ruby finally settle in to running the new Portland diner, fifty miles away from Storybrooke.
The cause of Belle's pregnancy sails into town, and starts to make very different waves.
Meanwhile in Storybrooke, Emma has news of her own while the relationship between her and Regina comes under strain.
Portland, Maine – Three weeks later…
"HELLOOOOO! I'M BACK!"
Seeing no one around, Ruby yelled out loud as she stepped through the main door into the newly refurbished café, due to open in less than a week.
"ANYONE HOME?"
Dropping her cases, she smiled as she took in all the changes since she'd left for Canada, three weeks ago. The ceilings and walls were now replastered and painted, and new downlighters fixed into the ceilings instead of the old chandeliers. It all looked so much brighter and cheerier than when she'd left. The floorboards and skirting had been renovated and polished, and an entirely new bar and serving area now stood at the back, leading through to the kitchen. Over a dozen tables and their chairs now stood in place around the room. It looked like they were almost ready to open.
"Well, well. If it isn't the Prodigal Daughter?"
Snow quipped, stepping through the swing doors towards her, brows arched ready for the ticking off Ruby knew she was bound to get. "What was it you said? "Don't worry Snow, I'll be back in two weeks." Yes, that was it, two weeks!" Nonetheless she still gave her a hug. "You're a week late! Thanks for dropping us in it."
"Sorry," she kissed her friend's cheek, despite the rebuke. "But be fair, I did call to let you know. "She looked around the room. "But it looks like you didn't need me anyway?"
"Are you kidding me? You haven't seen upstairs yet! We're barely a quarter way through. And as for our bedrooms, Livvy, Belle and I have been painting every damn day. Even Gideon's been helping with the skirting, or at least he tried. I can't get the smell of paint out of my nostrils and I'm pretty sure Belle shouldn't be going anywhere the stuff in her condition!"
"Again, I'm sorry. But they're my family, Snow. Family I never even knew I had. You know full well you'd have virtually moved mountains to get to yours!"
It was a fair point. "So did you find what you were looking for?"
"I'll show you pictures. I've taken loads. Including Marcus, I've met three uncles, two aunts and loads of cousins already. Plus, my other granny's alive! It was great and to be honest, it feels like I've finally got some family? I was a bit reluctant to come back."
"So why did you?"
Okay, that last comment stung."Because you're my closest friend in the world, I love you and I committed to run this business with you, that's why! But now I'm back, I'm here and ready to roll up my sleeves to do whatever needs doing."
"Good, and about time! Family or not, we can't have you swanning off again like that, Rubes. There's just too much still to do. Added to which I've got my own family coming this weekend! Or at least Emma's bringing Hope and Neal, and no doubt all hell's going to break loose, so I need to have time with them."
"Fair enough. Let me go shower, change and grab a coffee, yeah? Then you can tell me – hang on, what was that about Belle's condition?"
"She's pregnant."
"WHAAAAT? You're serious?"
"Very. She's okay. Shocked after she first visited a clinic the day after you left, but okay. And before you ask, she's about ten weeks. It seems your old Cuban yachting buddy's the father."
"Jerard, and he's French, not Cuban. Does he know?"
"Not yet, but Olivia's spoken to him, and told him to sail straight here as soon as he can. He was already on his way up and thinks he can get here by Monday."
~oOo~
Half an hour later, after she'd showered and changed, she sat in their personal kitchen as Snow filled her in on everything that'd happened with the refurbishing. The good bits, bad bits, and what they needed to focus on next. It was just then that Belle appeared, looking more in need of coffee than either of them.
"Okay babe, now before you start yelling at me for not getting back sooner, you should know Snow's done just that!" She watched as the former librarian sat down with a mug of tea. "So how are you getting on…mum?"
"I see she's already told you?" Belle looked down at her, for now, still flat stomach.
"Yeah. I thought you were on the pill, like us?"
"I was, but the clinic said they're never completely safe. And I really don't need a lecture on birth prevention or sexual hygiene, thanks? I got enough of that from this one when she first found out?" She arched a brow at Snow.
"I didn't mean it to sound like a lecture, and I'm sorry if it came out that way..."Snow tried to defend herself. "I was just surprised that if he'd already offered to, you weren't using condoms. Especially as there's more than two people involved. Leaving aside the pregnancy risks, there's the hygiene implic-"
Snow wanted to point out it'd be just as easy for the women to infect each other as him. Something she'd learnt from an STI lecture. But seeing the looks they were both giving her right now, thought better of it.
"Snow said he's here Monday, so I guess after three weeks, you've decided to keep it?"
"It was a difficult choice, but no matter what he thinks, I'll raise the baby alone if I have to."
"Wow! How'd did Livvy take it? Open relationship or not, he's still her boyfriend."
"She's fine about it, and convinced he'll not only support me, but be thrilled he'll get to be a father, and want to get involved raising it, though I can't see it somehow. She even said she'll stay and support me, even if Jerard doesn't."
Snow smirked. "Well, that's hardly a surprise."
"Meaning?"
"She's in love with you, Belle. I spotted it the moment she came here."
"Oh, you're wrong there, Snow."Ruby shook her head, unconvinced. "Livvy's a player. She's one for open relationships, free love and non-commitment, just like him. That's why they get on so well."
"Say what you like, but I know what I saw! And I saw the sort of looks David used to give me, before I ruined everything. She'd do anything for her."
Belle wanted to disagree, but there seemed little point. She'd even noticed it herself. Olivia had hinted at deeper feelings several times over the last few weeks. And she had to admit, if only to herself, that she liked the attention and was seriously attracted to her, too. So much so, she'd almost offered to share her bed once or twice; but it was only the thought of Gideon accidentally walking in on her again that persuaded her not to. What the hell was she turning into? Fortunately, Ruby switched topic.
"So, Emma and Neal, as in your Neal, are here this weekend, and Jerard comes Monday?"
"Yep, Emma and Killian are dropping the children. Hope's only going to be staying for a few days till they collect her after their weekend in New York. But Neal's here for a couple of weeks, so I get a chance to be a mother and grandmother again."
"And I've only got Gideon for another week," Belle chipped in. "Before Bae comes to collect him to take him off to look at his new school. So, as it'll be another six weeks until I see him after that, unless I go up to him at weekends, so I'm going to be taking time off these next few days to spend with him."
"So, you're both leaving me here on my own?"
"Yup. Welcome back, Rubes. Now get your overalls on and grab a paintbrush."
Saturday
"HELLO, MY DARLINGS!" Snow beamed the moment she spotted her son and daughter walk through the café door, bounding over to take them in her arms in turn, hugging them and kissing their cheeks, not having seen them for nearly a month."You've no idea just how much I've missed you both."
"We missed you too, mum."The eight-year-old scanned the room as his mother finally let go of Emma."This place looks awesome! A lot nicer and brighter than Granny's."
"Well, it should be, my love. We've only just painted it, and everything's new."
"He's right mum, it's impressive,"Emma was also taken by the size, and all the new fixtures and fittings, clearly almost ready to open after only a month."You're here alone?"
"Yes, they're all out. Belle's taken Gideon on the train to Boston, as he's never been on one over here before, and liked the ones in Europe. Ruby's out with Livvy for the morning."
"Livvy?"
"Olivia. A friend of theirs they went sailing with down to Cuba. She's staying till her boyfriend gets here. Still, never mind all that, come sit? Where's Hope?"
"With her dad I hope, parking the car, so they'll be here in a few. Sorry mum, but as I told you yesterday, me and Killian can only stick around till two latest because we don't want to hit all the rush hour getting there? But we'll make sure to spend the whole day with you when we collect her on Tuesday."
"I know, you said, and don't worry, she'll be just fine with us. I've already made plans for these two this weekend,"she pecked the top of her son's head."Neal, there's fresh cookies in a barrel in the kitchen upstairs, and milk in the fridge. So, follow your nose and we'll be up in a few minutes after I've had a chat with your sister?"
Her son, ever hungry, just smiled, picked up his travel bag, and left them, while Snow led her to the service counter."Good, I wanted to talk to you alone before Killian gets here."She started to make them coffees from the machine."You told me about going to England to rescue his brother? How is he?"
"It's hard to believe we sailed all that way, got him out of hospital, still unconscious, took him for treatment, and got him back here in just a week? But yeah, he's good now, like the cancer never happened? He's staying on the Jolly at the moment. Avalon's an incredible place, and Hope loved it, so we spent an extra couple of days there."
"I've heard stories about Avalon, and the way they – hang on a minute?"She noticed Emma's wrist."Your tattoo? It's gone!"
"Yeah,"Emma rubbed the now bare skin."That was Avalon, too. One of the wizards spotted it, and could tell it was linked to dark magic, so he kinda rubbed it off me without asking? It just fell off and turned back into a solid band, which I've got at home, just in case."
"So, you've got your magic back?"
"It came once in we got back to Storybrooke. I haven't told Henry yet, though. We'll be seeing him this weekend as he's travelling down to meet us from Harvard. He says he's having a great time."
"That's nice, but I'm sure he's still missing home. And his mothers."
"Sounds selfish to say, but I hope so."
"And your father? How is he?"
From the awkward look in Emma's eyes, she could tell she wasn't sure what to say."I saw him last weekend and this morning, when we picked up Neal. He's fine."
"Emma, it's okay to talk about him. We're over, so I promise you I won't get upset, but I still can't help worrying about him."And his odd little harem."So…please?"
She sighed, knowing she'd probably find out regardless."He's using the time you're looking after Neal, and before he goes back to school, to take a break himself? They left for Logan just after they dropped Neal off at our place yesterday."
"Boston airport?"Well, that came as a surprise. David had never even been on a plane before.
"Yeah. They've gone to London. Odd, considering I was only there a couple of weeks ago? He said something about them staying a few days in Paris, too."
"They?"
"Merlin's daughter, Annabelle. He said he'll be able to pick up Neal on his way back."
So, it seemed her former true love, had taken a vacation in Europe with his…whatever? She wasn't even sure how to feel, and Emma could see it in her eyes."Dorothy and Lily are looking after the farm, getting extra help with the harvest from a couple of Robin's men."
Snow knew she shouldn't have been surprised."That's kind,"she settled on. She wanted to ask more but decided against. "So what are you two doing in New York this weekend?"
"Just sightseeing and meeting up with a friend we made while you were in hospital, then we see Henry on Sunday. We'll be back before you know it."
Storybrooke Hospital – Antenatal Clinic
The nurse started to glide the probe over her gel-slickened stomach, all eyes focused on the monitor. It'd been Regina's fourth scan since finding out she was pregnant and had now begun to show signs of a bulge just a week ago. She was expecting to see more than last time, but still gripped Robin's hand tightly, as their baby came into view.
"There we go!"Rachel, the senior nurse, grinned."There's our fellah."She doublechecked the figures on screen."He's about eleven and a half centimetres from head to bottom. So, about the size of a big avocado? Here's his little heart..."she carried on pointing out the key organs, deliberately not mentioning the sex."Everything's looking good so far. And if we go down here, "She roamed the scanner to her side."We might even get a decent look at his face if he's not feeling bashful."
"Gina, look?"Robin stared even harder, with a quirky grin on his face."He's smiling at us!"
"He is, isn't he?"Regina was delighted. There were no problems and she'd gone past that awkward first trimester. Everything seemed on track."Robin, he's beautiful."
Rachel didn't have the heart to tell the delighted parents that the smiles were involuntary."Good,"she removed the scanner, pulling out tissues to wipe the gel off the expectant mother."I'll print out copies for you to take with you. Any questions?"
"You keep saying 'he'? I assume that's still just a figure of speech?"
"Yes, Robin. The notes tell me you don't want to know till the birth. But I can tell you if you want?"
"No thanks, I'd prefer not to know myself. Gina, if you want to, I can always step outside?"
"I think now I've seen his face, I'd like to. Would you mind?"
"No problem,"he stooped, pecking her lips."They'll call me back in when you're ready. Thanks Rachel."He was already grinning like a cat who'd got the cream as he left, closing the door behind him.
"You're having a girl, Regina. And everything's looks just about perfect so far. Congratulations."
"A girl? As I've been surrounded by boys for so long, it's come as a bit of a surprise. Still, it'll help balance things up a bit?"She wished she could tell Robin, knowing he'd also be thrilled.
"Now, I've a note here from Professor Sage, asking to make sure we have another blood sample before you go."
"Another? That'll be my fourth! I'll be bled dry by the time he's finished."
"Sorry, but we only need a small amount,"she looked through the notes."As your blood type's unusual, he's asked to keep monitoring for any changes."
"Unusual? But I'm 'A Positive'! Isn't that supposed to be one of the most common, after 'O'?"
"Yes, but it isn't quite. That's probably why he wants to keep it monitored. Doesn't really say why."
"Very well, if you must."
New York – Later that evening
When they'd arrived at the hotel where they'd stayed nearly two months ago, following a long drive from Portland, it was almost nine and they were both too tired to go out. So, Emma ordered dinner in their room instead, and drinks. She'd showered and changed into a dressing gown while Killian took a bath.
"Room service!"Came the tap on the door, and a female voice.
"Just a minute?"Emma called back, going to the vanity to retrieve a suitable tip, making sure her robe was tied before opening the door."Thanks, I'll-"
But the woman standing in front of her wasn't a waitress or serving staff. It was the same slightly shorter, blonde girl they'd met the last time they'd stayed. The one they'd befriended. The same girl they'd gone out and eventually shared a bed with.
"Clare?"
"Hi Emma!"She grinned, showing a set of perfectly capped teeth. Not in uniform, she wore a dark leather knee-length skirt with a tight white polo, and heels that made her around the same height as Emma. And she looked bloody good!"I know we're planning to meet tomorrow, but when I finished my shift half an hour ago, I checked the guest list and I saw you'd already checked in. They told me you'd ordered food, so I thought I'd bring it up as I wanted to say hello to my favourite hot married couple?"
"Flattery will get you anywhere. Come on in?" Emma held the door open as Clare pushed the trolley inside. And it looked like a lot more food than she's asked for. The moment she closed it behind her, the hallway cameras off them, she turned to face her, the younger woman's eyes already on her.
"Hello again, gorgeous." Clare looked her up and down with an approving nod, as Emma did much the same. "Where's that handsome man of yours?"
"Having a bath. He should be out in a minute." Emma stepped in front of her. "You're looking remarkably fine this evening, Miss Young. Got plans for tonight?"
"I was thinking much the same thing about you, Mrs. Jones. Except maybe I'm a little overdressed compared to you."
Emma placed her palms either side of her cheeks, sliding them through her hair before pulling her lips onto her own, moulding them together in a welcoming kiss and sliding a tongue inside, both women groaning as she started to lift the front hem of Clare's skirt.
"Guess we'd better do something about that then, hadn't we?"
"Shouldn't we wait till he comes out?"
"I suppose. Let's give him a little surprise?"
It was going to be a long night.
Portland – Monday
"Snow, I'd like you to meet our friend, Jerard Moreau? This lovable rogue took us all the way to Cuba on his yacht. Jer, this here's my oldest and best friend, Mary-Margaret Blanchard."
Jerard had arrived in port earlier that morning, Olivia and Ruby already there to greet him. And for the next two hours on his schooner, they'd told him about what they'd both been up to since he'd last seen them in Key West, neither mentioning Belle's condition, having earlier promised her they wouldn't say a word. And now, around midday, they'd taken him through the door of the new café. And as he looked around the room, an extremely attractive and rather gamine black-haired woman had walked out from a door at the back, followed by a young boy.
"Hello Mr. Moreau." Snow offered a hand to the tall, heavily tanned and, she thought, surprisingly handsome blonde man. "The girls here already told me so much about you, it's nice to finally put a face to a name? Welcome to Portland."
"Thank you, Miss Blanchard." He took her hand, shaking it. "Though please just call me Jerard, or Jer? It's lovely to meet you too."
"Call me Mary or better still, Snow? Everyone else does around here. And this is my son, Neal, who's staying with us for a couple of weeks before he goes back to school."
"Hello Neal," he shook hands with the boy in turn, who seemed friendly enough as he smiled back at him.
"Hi. Aunt Belle says you have a schooner?" Jerard nodded. "What type is it? How big?"
He was a little surprised. Most youngsters didn't know the first thing about sailing, let along vessel types. "It's an ocean going two-masted, about 112ft long. You know something about yachts, Neal?"
"A little bit. Uncle Leroy's got a little sloop he keeps in port most of the time, and a friend of mine's dad has a ketch, but my sister's husband Killian owns the Jolly Roger, and that's a whopping one hundred ton brig!" Then he remembered what his mother and father had told him about not mentioning anything to do with magic, fairy tale characters or Storybrooke when outside, in case people thought him mad. Or worse. "Or at least, that's what he calls it. It's a really good replica of a 19thCentury British warship, once called the Jewel of the Realm and then the Jolly Roger? He's let me have a go at the wheel a couple of times, so I also got to yell orders at his crew and everything!" He sounded pleased with himself. And as the man and her boy talked about boats and sailing, getting on like a house on fire, Snow was glad she'd taken the time to explain to Neal why when outside he should never talk about Storybrooke, pirates, magic, curses or anything that could draw unwanted attention in the world without magic. They had to be careful, even now.
Then all eyes turned at the sound of the new brass bell over the front door, Jerard instantly recognising the new arrival, with an even younger, shyer boy just in front of her.
"Hello Sailor?"
"Lady Belle!" Olivia couldn't help notice the glint in her boyfriend's eyes at the sight of the woman she wanted to be her girlfriend. His smile couldn't have been broader. Would he still be smiling after Belle told him her news? "How lovely to see you again." He moved over and stopped. Instead of hugging and kissing her warmly, seeing the youngster staring up at him, he took her hand but instead of shaking it, turned it over and kissed the back. "It's been too long."
"Only six weeks..." She was relieved he hadn't been more openly affectionate in front of Gideon."But you're right, it has. It's lovely to see you too." She turned to the four-year-old standing next to her. "This is my son, Gideon, who's staying with us until we choose his new school. Gideon, this is Jerard. He took us all the way to Cuba on his yacht."
"Enchanté, Gideon," Jerard again offered his hand. "I've heard so much about you from your mother. It's good to finally meet you."
"Ravi de vous rencontrer," the boy answered without hesitation and a passable attempt at a French accent, taking his hand and shaking it.
"Tu parles francais?"He was impressed. "Your mother told me you were bright for your age. I see she wasn't exaggerating."
"Merci," then he dropped back into English. "I don't know that much, but Celeste, my dad's girlfriend, is half French. She taught me a bit when we were in Paris last month."
"You were in Paris? Did you like France?"
And with that, Jerard struck up an easy conversation with the boy about his recent European trip, as smoothly as he had talking about sailing with Neal, which pleased Belle as the father to her unborn child seemed to be at ease with children. How Gideon would take to him when she finally tells him she's pregnant by the man he was talking to was a bridge to cross another day. But now, she needed to speak to Jerard alone. Fortunately, Snow was already onto it.
"Gideon, I need help with my desktop, to use this funny app to draw up the templates for the new food menus we need printed for the first week's opening. It's all a bit confusing for an old soul like me, but your mum's told me you're quite the computer wizz? Could you and Neal come help? They'll only be talking about boring adult stuff in here anyway. Please?"
Pleased to feel needed, and loving anything technical, he readily agreed. And two minutes later Jerard found himself at one of the tables, Belle and Olivia to his left and right, Ruby opposite. The former librarian, looking more anxious than the others, started.
"I guess you're wondering why Livvy asked you to come straight here?"
"She was being unusually evasive, for her." He looked fondly at his girlfriend, having, or so he thought, a reasonable idea. "After what she told me in Havana before she left, I think I know. She's a wonderful woman Belle, and can I just say I thoroughly approve? I've known her a while, she's my closest friend in the world and I want nothing more than for her to be happy. You make a beautiful couple."
"I'm sorry, what?" Belle was confused, Ruby even more so.
"You and Livvy. You're a perfect match."
"No, you clot!" Olivia interrupted, knowing what he'd assumed. "You've got the wrong end of the stick."
"Oh?"
"Wait, so you thought we'd asked you to come here to tell you Livvy and I were together?"
"Why yes, Belle. She's clearly fallen you, after all. So, after what she told me, I just thought-"
"Jer, please? Just stop talking?" It was Olivia's turn to feel awkward, avoiding the sympathetic look she was getting from Belle. was giving her. "It's embarrassing enough, and you're making it worse. Belle just doesn't feel the same way about me, as I do, her."
"Oh, I'm sorry, my mistake. Why else would you ask me to come here sooner than planned?"
"I'm pregnant." Belle butted in to get to the point, partly to spare Olivia. Judging by the look of on his face, she'd succeeded. "About ten weeks." She reached down to pick up her bag, opening it and pulling out a printed sheet. Her free hand reached for the woman to her left, squeezing her arm. "And Livvy, I never said anything of the sort! All I said was that it's a bit early for me to even think about relationships right now, that's all! I like you, a lot, and I'd be lying if I said I didn't have feelings for you. But there's just so much going in my life right now…" She slid the folded white paper in front of him; the test result from the clinic.
The women watched, waiting for a reaction as he read, and Belle wasn't surprised that he stayed silent as he made the calculation. It was a lot to take in, after all.
"I guess it must've been that first week we met, here in Portland?" She nodded.At least he hadn't asked if it could be by another man. "And though you've known for four weeks, you only chose to tell me this now?" Although he didn't say it in any sort of accusing manner, she still frowned. He had to be careful here. "Not that I'm suggesting you should have, Belle! But it's quite a burden to be carrying on your own all this time. You're an intelligent woman and you've obviously thought through the options. What do you want to do?"
"I'm already in my forties, so I definitely wasn't planning on having another baby! But yes, I thought seriously about termination and knew if I went through with it, I had to do it as early as possible. But it was something Snow said that made me decide not to. And the fact that I don't think I'd ever be able to forgive myself."
"So, you've decided to go ahead and have it?"
She nodded again. "But you don't have to worry, it needn't concern you. I have the means, financial and otherwise, to raise it without you."
"Why would you say such a cruel thing to me? Do you seriously think I'd put you in this situation and not support you? Do you think so little of me?"
She sighed loudly, looking to her side, at Olivia, who was giving her a sympathetic smile. She'd already told her he'd be supportive.
"No, of course not! Jer, I absolutely loved the time I spent with you, and those weeks we sailed together were some of the best of my life! But, well, you're a player, aren't you? A rich playboy with a free, easy lifestyle, sailing the globe. With other women no doubt, and men, all over the place. You're hardly the sort of person to settle down and play the part of a doting father now, are you?"
"People change, Belle! Yes, I've been a wanderer over the years, and most of what you've said is true. I admit, I'm not exactly husband material, but then, you're not looking for a husband, are you? No, you'd just want someone to help and support you in raising our little one. A father who doesn't run from his…responsibilities." He reached across and took her hand. "I'll willingly support you, if you'll let me?"
"Belle," Olivia, at her left, held the other hand."I've known him a few years now, and the one thing I've learnt is he's completely honest, and an open book. Not sure I can say the same about me. But I know he'd make a brilliant father. And I'll also be here to help all the way."
She finally allowed herself to smile. The pair had certainly grown on her. Maybe things weren't going to be so tough, after all?
"And Jer, after lunch we should go take a look at Belle's new bookshop on the other side of the building? It's opening in a few days but there's a smaller empty shop next to it, which came with it. Maybe take a look at it for the charter business?"
Storybrooke Hospital
"I wouldn't worry Regina. That sort of discharge is quite common during pregnancy, and perfectly normal. It's only when it's darker, or bloody, we need be concerned."
"You're quite sure?" The former mayor had been worried sick most of yesterday evening and had made the mistake of looking up her symptoms online. Never a smart thing to do.
"Yes, though to put your mind at ease, we have Professor Sage back with us today. I know he's preparing for theatre later, but I think he may be free? As our only senior medic on call today, shall I call him in?"
"Under the circumstances, I'd rather see his daughter, or at least a female doctor?"
"Sorry, but Anna's travelling around Europe, or so they tell me. Let me go get him for you?" And with that the nurse stood, leaving the room and, surprisingly, the now familiar thick blue folder, presumably her own records, that she'd been consulting for reference.
After waiting alone for a good four minutes, seeing the folder, Regina's curiosity got the better of her, and she turned it around and opened it to view the contents. Well, it was about her own history, wasn't it? And as she looked through the print outs and notes from recent scans, she found more documents of particular interest. Scan and blood results, the DNA reports she asked for, notes and written comments. But a lot more. She started to read.
~oOo~
"Ah, Regina?" Merlin bundled into the room ten minutes later, holding a tablet PC and grinning. Or at least he was till he saw she now had a blue folder open, several printed documents laid out in front of her, and another in her hand."Sorry to have kept you so long, but we'd just had two RTAs in this morning with head injuries. I'm sure you understand?"
"Care to explain?" Regina completely ignored his excuse, instead just staring up at him, while brandishing a printed report.
"Explain what?" Looking over the other documents scattered close to the folder, which she'd presumably read, Merlin had a reasonable idea what was coming, and the glare she was giving him confirmed it.
"Explain why I'm looking at four different DNA reports in my file, along with six different blood results, saying different things? And who the hell is 'Patient C'? Also, why do you have all these references written in red pen on my results, saying monthly blood tests are critical? What's going on, Merlin? What's wrong with the baby?"
"May I?" He held out a hand to take the report. Oh well, he might as well be open about it, now it's out there. "Well, you've probably already surmised that 'Patient A' is you?"
"That's blindingly obvious, at it refers to the pregnancy! I'm also assuming 'Patient B' is Robin, seeing as it also says 'Male' on his results?" He nodded. "'D' is clearly the baby, so who is this 'Patient C - Female'? And why does it say 'Changes in bgO is cause for Concern, needs further assessment' underlined in red? I've only just found out I'm carrying a girl. Again, is something wrong with my baby?"
"No Regina," he sat down opposite, turning the folder to face him." There's nothing wrong with your unborn child. In fact, she seems perfectly healthy at this stage."
"So why this cause for concern? Merlin, I've never liked secrets, especially when it comes to my own-"
"Patient C, isn't your baby. It's a another adult."
"Meaning? And why's her DNA report in this folder? Also, who the hell's' Jane Doe?"
"Regina, have you ever wondered how you managed to become pregnant, after having previously taken a powerful potion to make you permanently infertile? How your body managed to overcome all those toxins you ingested, to prevent you conceiving?"
Well that threw her! "Well, I'd assumed it was due to my true love relationship with Robin, coupled with the fact when we first both admitted our feelings and kissed, I felt the magical wave and the light! It was strong and I knew it for what it was. Plus, when The Dragon told me I was expecting before I even knew myself, he said he could already sense its magic."
"As I can right now, even though it'll be a long time till it's released! And yes, I agree that Robin is almost certainly your true love, soulmate, and the genetic father of your child. The results only confirm it. In fact, you could even argue your baby has more of his DNA, than yours. That's where 'Donor C' comes in."
"You're talking in riddles! Who the hell is this 'Donor C'?"
"Emma Swan-Jones." He couldn't fail to notice the shocked look. "In fact, if you were to break it down by numbers, one could even argue, given the results, that your baby's DNA is fifty percent Robin's, forty-seven percent yours, and three percent Emma's, give or take."
"That's impossible!"
"You'd think so, wouldn't you? But no, the results are conclusive. Somehow, Emma's DNA has somehow managed to enter your body and make changes between the time you had intercourse with Robin, and the egg reaching is sperm and being fertilised. That can take anything from hours to several days. And those changes still seem to be ongoing! Your blood group's definitely not the same as it was but it's now fighting and defeating all those toxins that you put in your body all those years ago. So, while you did conceive as a direct result of Robin, it was Emma's DNA changing yours that enabled you to hang on to it! And the strange thing is we also found traces of your own DNA in Emma's blood. What we don't know yet, is how it happened or what the effects will be in the future. I have to assume that magic between two powerful sorceresses played a part somewhere along the line."
"This is too much to take in."Regina closed her eyes, rubbing her temples."You're seriously saying my child has three biological parents?"
"If you count Emma's three percent, then yes I suppose so. Hence the reason we've run so many tests recently."
"And Emma knows about this? You said you tested her blood?"
"We did,"He really didn't want to admit to covertly taking Emma's blood and hair samples without her permission, even if it was in a good cause."Though please don't ask me how. But she's completely unaware."
"So why didn't you tell me this soomer?"
"What'd be the point? I didn't want to worry you. Besides, you're now well on your way to having a strong and healthy baby. Emma's just helped you hold on to it, leaving a trace of herself in you while you did so. and you in her."
"Should I be telling them about this?"
"That's your choice. But I won't be saying anything to anyone unless you ask me to."
Portland Harbour – Two weeks later
Snow White slammed the café door behind her, desperate to get out and clear her head. She also didn't want to let anyone see her break down in tears.
The café had only opened a week earlier delayed by numerous problems in the kitchen plumbing. And she'd left Ruby, who'd be running that side of the business anyway, still working along with Richard, their new chef, and Barbara, a young waitress they'd taken on only a week earlier. Ruby had watched her as she'd waved Neal goodbye, his father having collected him on his way from the airport. To take him back to Storybrooke, to start his new term, albeit a week late. And that's when the tears started, knowing she wouldn't see him again for another month, unless she went back to Storybrooke. And with the business now running, that was unrealistic. It would only get worse once the hotel side opened. Neal had only been with her for two weeks. The first week had been wonderful, and they'd taken most days out to see the sights and spend time together. But since the diner opened, things had been frantic and her time with him disappeared. Plus, he was starting to get bored and wanted to see his friends again.
An hour earlier David had walked in, dressed in new clothes. A new tight T-shirt, even tighter jeans, and sporting a tan. He looked great, more like the man she'd known years ago. But although he'd acted as though pleased to see her, the slightly distant way that he'd hugged her, barely pecking her cheek, told her what she already knew. That he'd moved on. His new girlfriend, Merlin's daughter, at least had the good grace not to come along, instead making herself busy back in Boston, apparently. And after father and son finally left, she'd raced upstairs before any of the diners could see the tears flow.
With the rest of her family at least fifty miles away, Snow had never felt so lonely.
Half an hour after leaving, she found herself walking aimlessly by the old waterfront, toward a quay where several dozen yachts lay berthed, while staring out to sea.
"Snow?"Came a voice from her side, interrupting her moody thoughts."It's getting dark. What are you doing out here so late?"She looked down to find Olivia standing on the side of her boyfriend's yacht, holding a glass of wine.
"Oh, er, hi Livvy. I was just getting some fresh air. It's been a trying day."
"Has Neal been collected, then?"Even as she said it, the chestnut-haired beauty could see from the red eyes that she'd been crying. No doubt due to saying goodbye to her boy. "You feeling okay?"
"Not great. But yes, his father's taken him off. I'll probably see him in a month or so."
"Well it's getting bloody cold out here, so why not come in the warm? Jer's just opened some decent wine. Belle's here, too. She's not drinking obviously, but I think she's got the blues just like you, after some handsome fella came along and took Giddy off to look at some fancy new school yesterday. Jer's made snacks too, so come join us?"
"Well fortunately for me, I'm not pregnant, and I think I could murder a drink!"
That's how she found herself inside the schooner, which was surprisingly roomy. And Jerard had prepared a whole lot more than 'snacks'. There was smoked salmon, shrimps, crab and lobster rolls, stuffed clam and all manner of luxury nibbles. Belle, being pregnant, had avoided all shellfish but tucked away on the salmon. And with two or three glasses of good wine inside her, Snow started to feel better. And as she watched their host replenish their glasses, she remembered what Ruby had told her about him. She could certainly see the attraction. After all, who wouldn't? He was tall, rich, blonde, extremely handsome, tanned, and with an athletic physique many men would die for. Who wouldn't fancy him? And as for that gorgeous French accent? And the easy way he continued to easily flirt with Olivia and Belle, even her at times, her thoughts went back to what Ruby told her they'd all got up to on the way to Cuba. Unfortunately, the wine had loosened her tongue.
"So, I guess this is where it all happened?"
"I'm sorry?"
"The four of you?"She smirked, sipping her wine. Belle grinned, knowing what she was getting at. Ruby and Snow tended to tell each other everything, after all.
"She's talking about what we did in your cabin," Belle clarified. "All of us. Ruby told her."
"Oh," Jerard seemed surprised. "I see. And does that bother you, madame? Do you disapprove?"
"Far from it. I was just surprised when she first told me, but no. I was a little jealous, to be honest."
"Jer, Snow was a bit like me…"Belle added."Married, and a one-man kind of girl till recently? We've a lot in common."
"It's true. In fact, David, my former husband, is the only man I'd ever slept with, apart from a fairly forgettable one-night stand years ago."
"That's a surprise, considering how you look. After all, you're a stunner, Snow!"Olivia was curious."So, what about women then?"
"Two,"she looked at Belle, smiling and unphased. "You've already met them."
"Really?"Belle's cheeks pinked, and the look on her face told him everything."Then I'm sorry the male of our species has proved such a disappointment for you, ma chérie."
"I didn't say that! I still like men, it's just, having divorced only a couple of months ago, I've barely had a chance to meet any since we've been here. Let alone think about dating one."
"I'm relieved to hear it," he topped her wine glass again. "Liv's right; with your natural beauty and easy élégance, though you're currently unattached, it'd be a tragedy were you not to experience love again, in whatever form it comes next time."
"Laying it on a bit thick, aren't you sailor boy?"Olivia mocked him, seeing the look in his eyes, and clear interest in the raven-haired woman."Be careful with this one, Snow! He used virtually that same line on me once, before buttering me up with Champagne and oysters. He was in my knickers two hours later!"Even Belle, the only sober one, burst out laughing at her crudity, as did Snow."And he's been there regularly ever since."She added, unnecessarily.
"And what about you, Belle?"Snow smirked at the bookshop owner."I know you sneaked out the other night, after Gideon left with his brother. And the walk of shame when you came home yesterday morning? Did you, by chance, come here for…Champagne?"
"She came quite a few times! Never drank any Champagne though." They all laughed again, as Belle buried her face in her hands at Olivia's smut. "Why are you asking? Fancy some Champagne for yourself, Snow?"
The woman in question certainly noticed the smouldering looks he was giving her. And he was gorgeous. Well, why not?
"I guess that all depends on Just how good his Champagne is?"
The following morning…
It was just before six thirty. Still half an hour before sunrise, when Snow crept as silently as she could through the entrance to the diner, now called Blanchard's at Ruby's suggestion. It was still a good hour and a half till they opened.
Unfortunately, the clang on that accursed bell above the door announced her arrival.
"BUSTED!"
Ruby called out, emerging through the kitchen door, carrying two cake trays, putting them down on the dimly-lit counter.
"Jeez Rubes! You scared me half to death! I thought you'd still be in bed."
""Jeff's bakery delivery, remember? He always comes an hour earlier on a Thursday."She looked her best friend over, smiling as the noticed she was still wearing the same dress she went out in last night, when she'd been upset."So, you thought you'd manage to do the Walk of Shame back here without being seen, did you?" The awkward way she looked away confirmed it. Then she spotted the wine bottles in the clear plastic bag."Feeling better after yesterday? Did you manage to enjoy Jer's…hospitality?"
She way she said it, looking at the bag and that knowing grin, Snow realised she not only knew where she'd spent the night, but what she'd also been up to.
"Yes…well, erm…yes. He'd already made some lovely food. Livvy spotted me wandering around the dockside and invited me to come join them. He's given me some of his family's wines and recipes to try out, so we could maybe order some if we like them."
"Really? So, you stayed the night?"As the former princess frowned, she added."Hey, I've no problem with it whatsoever! You left here upset after Neal got collected. Hell, if Jer managed to make you feel better, then I'm the last one to judge! I just hope you had a good time."
"He was lovely; very sweet and considerate. I now get what you all see in him."
"Yeah, plus the fact he's a pretty great fuck helps?"As she started laughing, the arched brow she got back, but lack of any denial, only confirmed it."Wait – you said Liv invited you on board? Don't tell me, you also got to have your first ever threesome?"
Knowing she'd find out one way or other, and with that infectious laughter of hers, even Snow started to chuckle, coyly raising her hand, palm out, all fingers raised.
"Four?"Then she spotted the bookshop owner crossing over the road outside and walking toward them, with another wine bag just like Snow's."Belle too? You guys had a foursome?"
"Shush!"Snow whispered, a finger to her lips as the door opened, Belle walking in."I'll tell you later!"
"Why Snow White, you dirty little hussy, you!"
"You're a fine one to talk!"
Storybrooke – December
Henry smiled to himself at the abrupt change in the view ahead as he drove over the town line; the invisible border shielding Storybrooke from the non-magical world. Since the start of term, he'd only been back for a brief couple of days for Thanksgiving, less than a month ago. And now, with only three days till Christmas, he was looking forward to two whole weeks rest before Spring Term. Unfortunately, the woman sitting next to him wasn't.
"I appreciate you making the effort to come up with me, grandma," he smiled as Snow continued staring out the window. "I know you're feeling uncomfortable being back, but there's really no need. Everyone understands, and it'll be fine, I promise."
"Well to be honest Henry, I did ask Emma to bring Hope and her brother down to me for the weekend instead. But she insisted I come, saying there's important things she wanted to talk to me about and it was easier if I just came to them. Neal was just as bad, playing the guilt trip on me and saying he wants all the family together, after the terrible year we had. I couldn't really say no after what I put him through. Still, I guess it'll probably feel just as awkward for your grandfather."
"Gran, you're divorced, that's all! It happens to thousands and thousands of couples every year. Don't worry about it."
She didn't tell him another reason for agreeing to come was Merlin. He'd phoned to catch up on her health, insisting she should have another magical boost to her transplanted organs sooner than later, to avoid any decline, saying she should do it twice yearly, at the very least.
"Is Merlin's daughter still living here?"She changed the subject completely. What she really wanted to know was whether the young medic was still living with her ex-husband.
"Yeah. Vic Whale's now living just outside New York, doing some sort of specialist training; neurology, I think ma said? So, I gather Annabelle's taken over as clinical lead here while he's gone. Merlin helps out from time to time, He's here over Christmas too, apparently."
"And Regina? Are she and Robin all good now, after all their problems?"
"I think so. They should be coming for the party, according to Rolly. Can you believe he's going to be fifteen this weekend? But he also said mum and ma have still been keeping their distance from each other, after everything. When I was here last month, they were kind of ignoring each other? Bit weird, for those two."
Swan House
As Henry pulled up outside Emma and Killian's large Queen Anne revival home, Snow felt like she wanted to run. This was the bit she'd been dreading.
Killian answered the door to them. Fortunately, David wasn't there yet and wasn't due to arrive for at least another two hours due to work on the farm. However, Emma had collected her brother earlier, and she was now in the bathroom upstairs while Hope was playing with a friend in her room. And as Killian led them her through to the dining room, it was to find Regina and Robin, the first arrivals, both standing by the window, their backs to her as they looked out to sea.
"Hello again, Locksleys."As they turned to her voice, Snow was instantly drawn to the obvious change in her stepmother. "Oh my goodness! Regina!"The former queen and mayor now looked decidedly pregnant. Her hair was now shorter than she'd seen it in years, though made up complexion perfect as always, even though she looked a little more tired. Regina watched the shorter woman's eyes scanning her before going back up to her face."You're blooming!"
"Blooming huge, you mean? Thank you Snow, but we both know I look like a beached whale…"Regina huffed. Nonetheless she managed to smile as Robin's hands roamed protectively around her stomach from behind."Still, at least it's only eight weeks to go, thank goodness! Welcome back."
"That's nonsense - you look wonderful! Belle's already larger than you, and she's at least a month behind -"
"BELLE'S PREGNANT?"Regina interrupted, surprised. "Does Gold know? I'm sure he'd skin anyone who soiled his librarian, divorced or not. Ruby was extremely lucky."
"Neal, as in Baelfire, has probably told him by now, though he won't be concerned. Belle told me he's already living with someone in Boston, some former queen from one of the old realms. I gather they're living under assumed identities, helped by Merlin, and doing well. Neal even thinks they may get engaged at some point."
"So who's the baby's father?"
"A very handsome Frenchman called Jerard. He's the owner of the yacht that took Ruby and her down to Cuba. He's a bit of a millionaire playboy, but now he knows he's to be a father he's decided to base himself in Portland to help bring up the baby."
Regina looked up at her son, who'd just entered the room, carrying two gift-wrapped boxes. "Henry? Did you know about this?"
"And hello to you too, mum?"He sniggered, stepping in front of the woman he hadn't seen all month."About Belle? Yeah, sorry, I forgot."He leant in, kissing her cheek as he took her in his arms, careful not to press against thebulge."She seems to be looking good on it, though. And her new bookshop's doing well, too. So how are you doing, mum?"
"Better for seeing you, my prince."She returned the peck, enjoying the hug from the son who was now almost a foot taller than her."Welcome back. Any other little surprises you forgot to tell us about?"
"Henry, what your mother's really trying to ask, is whether there's any young Harvard ladies taken your fancy since you've been away?"Robin added, unhelpfully, as Regina rolled her eyes. But yes, she did want to know.
"Nothing serious, though I've been on a few dates. Don't worry mum, you and ma will always be the first to know."As he spoke, Emma walked in, followed by Killian, both carrying trays of food from the kitchen, laying them down on the table.
During the Thanksgiving diner in November he noticed how his mothers had kept their distance from each other throughout, and barely exchanged a word. Yet on his weekly calls with each of them they always asked after each other. Had they had some sort of row? Or was it just awkwardness over what'd happened earlier in the year, keeping apart for Robin and Killian's benefit? Either way he didn't like it and wanted to get to the bottom of it.
"Mum, maybe you, me and ma should start doing those Sunday web calls all together? What do you think, ma?"
"Sorry?"Emma looked up, almost as though having just noticed them. She didn't seem herself as she stepped up to the little group, a glass of what looked like Coke in her hand. Like she had something on her mind? Snow also seemed to have noticed her daughter's behaviour.
"Emma, what's wrong?"She mother rested a hand on her arm."You look worried."
"Wrong? No, I'm okay, it's just-"She seemed hesitant, awkward, as Killian came alongside her, with a beer in his hand. But unlike her, he was smiling proudly.
"There's nothing wrong, Snow." He slipped his hooked arm around her back."She just has something she wants to tell you all, before word gets out. Isn't that right, Swan?"
"I guess…"Emma gave him an odd look, as though she was slightly annoyed but grateful for giving her the shove she needed.
"I'm pregnant."To Henry, it sounded like she wasn't altogether delighted."Three months. I've just gone through the first trimester but didn't want to say anything till now, just in case."
You could've have heard a pin drop. Until finally.
"Oh Emma!"Snow, first to react, grinned, pulling her in for a hug."That's wonderful news!"
"Is it?"She said without thinking, noticing Killian's frown. "I guess so. I just haven't been feeling great."
"She's worried she's too old to be having to go through it all over again, even though I've assured her she hasn't aged a day..."Killian offered, pecking her brow."Plus, the fact she's going through a more morning sickness this time, isn't that right, Swan?"
"Yeah,"she nodded, taking a sip from her glass."That's putting it mildly!"She looked up to see Henry staring, his eyes flipping between her and Regina, who was now standing by the table near the corner, picking up a food plate to help herself. Like she was oblivious to the conversation?
"I'm sorry you're feeling rough, ma. But I think it's great that I'm going to be getting another brother or sister soon."Henry offered, watching Regina loading her plate. Was she avoiding them?"Maybe between you and mum I'll get one of each? Congratulations."He stepped in, leaning over to kiss her cheek and taking her in a hug. "That's brilliant news. What do you think, mum, ma going through the same thing as you, and growing the family? You could help each other through it. Mum?"
"Mm?"Regina, having just stuffed a small sausage roll in her mouth, finally looked at them. When did the former queen, a health-conscious food freak all the years he'd known her, start eating sausage rolls and pastries? Or a stacked plate of food that big? "Yes. That's lovely news. Well done, Emma."But she said it without feeling, almost shrink back from as all the eyes on her.
"Thanks."
The way they spoke to each other, seemed weird to Henry. They'd started as enemies when he'd first brought Emma back, before becoming allies, and eventually the closest of friends over the years. And now it seemed like they could barely look at each other.
"Guys, sorry but there's a couple of things I need to talk about with my mums about in private. Alone? Would you all mind if I took them off next door for a couple of minutes? We won't be long."
~oOo~
He waited till both mothers, Regina reluctantly, had filed into the little study along the short corridor. Regina had also brought her plate. But they still stood a good ten feet away from each other, Henry between them.
"Ma, could you use your magic to lock the door and soundproof us, please?"
"What? Oh erm, sure…"She raised her hand, twirling her fingers, the spell cast."There. What's wrong?"
"That's what I want to know! You two have barely even looked at each other from the moment I got here."As he spoke, both mothers seemed to confirm it, Regina picking up a chicken breast with her fingers to bite into."You used to hate each other's guts once; then you got to be friends. The very best of friends! You even briefly became lovers, and talked about marrying each other, even if it was because of the potion! And now it just feels like you're starting all over again? You're best mates for god's sake! You rely on each other. You need each other. It's your friendship that got us through really bad stuff! So, what's going on? Have you two had a row, or something?"
"It's not that," Emma started. "We've just been getting on with our lives, that's all! I've got Hope to look after, then there's the-"
"Bollocks!"He interrupted, sarcastically."You've been through-"
"Don't swear to your mother!"Regina interrupted in turn, cutting him off."Or me!"
"Well tell me the truth, then? Surely one of you can? Is it something recent or just because of what happened last summer?"
"Henry,"Emma raised her hand."Please stop raising your voice. Look, I'm not feeling well and I've got issues, okay?"Regina raised her eyes, finally looking at her, but he carried on.
"What sort of problems? And why didn't you tell one of us? Have you seen a doctor? Is there something wrong with the baby? And what about you, mum? Why have you become a hermit the last few months? Why-"
"HENRY, ENOUGH!"Regina put her own hand up."Stop with the questions! Your mother's clearing feeling unwell, and there could be all sorts of reasons. Stop haranguing her."
"Fine! Look, I'm sorry if I've upset you, but if there's something wrong you should just tell me, especially if it's serious. Better still, just talk to each other, for all our sakes?" He put the gift-wrapped boxes on the little table in the middle. "Look, I'll leave you to it. I brought these back from Boston. Just a couple of things I saw, that I thought you'd both like now the cuffs are off?" As he was about to stride out, he noticed Regina's wrist. "And while I'm at it, let's finally get this bloody thing off?"
Without asking her, he lifted her wrist, clamping his fingers around the tattoo that'd been there for over six months. Closing his eyes, he focused, just as his grandfather had taught him. The tattoo briefly transformed into its original solid cuff, and then parted in two, leaving half in each hand. The instant release of her magic made Regina shiver, as it pulsed through her body.
"Henry, I didn't ask you to do that!" She rebuked him, "I wasn't ready!"
"Yeah, well it's done now. Emma's had hers off for months now, and it hasn't changed her. Maybe if she's feeling unwell you can kinda use magic to help her?"He walked to the door to leave."Could you unlock the door and lock it again after me till you've finished talking?"
~oOo~
There was an even more awkward silence between them after he'd left, Regina finally looking up at her but not moving closer.
"You never told me you were pregnant?"Regina knew she had no reason to feel hurt, but she did.
"Why would I? You weren't talking to me, and you've been ignoring me for months now, and you know it!" Emma sounded even more hurt than her. "I used to think we were best friends that told each other everything? That we'd always be there for each other? Especially after..." She stopped, and another awkward silence followed, until Regina slowly nodded.
"You're right. I'm sorry Emma, I failed you."
"Why? I mean, what have I done to you? I've felt like shit these last few months. Killian helps, but it would've been nice to have another woman to talk to? Someone who-"Again, another stop."It's not like I had my own mother around."
"Again, you're right. I should've been there for you and I apologize. It's just, I felt, what's wrong with you anyway? Is it the baby?
"I've been spotting on and off for the best part of a month now. I went into hospital twice, once overnight. I've had nausea and vomiting. Hyperemesis, they called it. High thyroid levels, and even a bloody UTI! I never had this when I carried Hope, or Henry."As she spoke, she started weeping, bringing her hands up to her face."I've felt fucking awful! And now Merlin's daughter seems to think I might have some sort of blood disorder?"
"Oh, Emma!" Regina finally put her plate down, moving over to her and take her in her arms. "I'm so sorry."
Emma instinctively rested her head on her friend's shoulder as she held her."But why? Why did you just abandon me? Was it for Robin? Has he said something?"
"No, nothing at all and he's been brilliant, as always. I'm sorry it's been so awful for you, while mine's been relatively okay. So what's the blood disorder issue?"
"She said the baby's antibodies are reacting to mine. And just to make it all worse, it seems I've got some weird things going on with my blood? Although I'm only three months gone, she can tell the baby's got a magical signature already, even though there's only traces, and it's fighting mine. She said she's not sure what's causing it as she's never seen anything like it, so she's waiting for her dad to come take a look. He gets here tomorrow, apparently."Emma carried on holding onto her, grateful for the comfort."But don't change the subject. Why have you been avoiding me."
She sighed. She'd really wanted to avoid this, but knew with a risk to her pregnancy, she couldn't any longer. "There's been a couple of reasons, and again, I'm sorry." The truth is, when you collected Guyliner's brother, I was told you'd had your cuff taken off in Avalon. I've been worried that there may have been some traces of Ingrid's potion left inside you, that could have reactivated?"
"Reactivated?"Emma pulled her head back but didn't let go of her."You thought I might suddenly try and seduce you, or something?"
"I wasn't sure, but it was a distinct possibility. And I know what you're about to say about Snow and Ruby, but let's face it, we're very different. We both have magic and, whether you want to admit it or not, we do still have very deep feelings for each other, do we not?"The eyes defied her to deny it, but Emma eventually nodded."Exactly. But we happen to love our husbands more."
"You still could've talked to me, even if it was just a phone call? And now Henry's removed your cuff, do you feel anything different towards me?"
"No, thank god! But that's not the only reason. "Emma's glare insisted she continue."There's something I should've told you, about the baby I'm carrying. It's difficult to explain, and frankly, embarrassing."
"I'm not the easily embarrassed type, Regina. You can tell me anything, you know that!"
"I know. Well the truth is, I'd never have even been able to carry this without you. When I took that infertility potion, many years ago, to stop my mother using any child of mine to her advantage, I seriously damaged my insides. By rights, I should never have been able to conceive, let along hold onto a foetus."
"But what's that got to do with me?"Then Emma's mind went back to Henry's trip to the 'other' Storybrooke. And him meeting their own Emma and Regina."Dear god, you're not saying it's mine, surely? That I got you pregnant? Because if you are-"
"No! I'm not saying that. This is definitely Robin's. But it also shares a little of its DNA, about three percent, with you. Only a little, and the rest is mine and Robin's. It seems you and I having sex caused the poisons inside me to be nullified. At least that's what Merlin told me."
"Nullified – so Merlin knows about this?"
"And Robin. I told him two months ago. I don't keep secrets from him. Not anymore."
"How the hell can I affect your pregnancy? We're both women, for god's sake!"
"You really don't want to know."
"No, I really think I do! You've told me this much, so how?"
"It probably happened that first night at my place, after we both smelt the potion. We were both quite…enthusiastic.There was an octarine flash, if you recall?"
Emma's mind went back to the night in question, when she'd felt the wave and saw the octarine flash. When it happened she'd been scissoring her mercilessly. She even remembered the state of the bed sheets after. Just the thought of it made her cringe.
"I believe at the time our…essences…combined somehow? In short, a part of you entered a part of me, and because we both have magic, it made permanent change. It happened the night after I made love to Robin, and allowed me to conceive."
"Well, I've heard of spit-swapping, but, wow! That's just…embarrassing."
"Yes, to put it mildly."
"And you told Robin?"
"He was annoyed at first. But he understood that he wouldn't be about to become a father again if it hadn't been for you. Technically, he's even more the father than I'm the mother, considering. And it also seems the change has altered my blood group permanently somehow, along with my DNA. So, a small part of you remains inside me."
"So, you're really saying the baby's three percent mine?"She shook her head, bewildered."Anna said my own blood's very different to those on the records from when I had Hope. You don't think…?"
"I don't know what to think, Emma. But I do think we should see Merlin together."
~oOo~