Mother's Day
"So, what's Robin doing for you this weekend?" Mal asked, leaning against Regina's door as she watched the brunette packed up at the end of the day.
"Barbecue picnic in the backyard with the boys," Regina replied, closing her bag before shrugging on the light coat she had brought. While the days had gotten warmer, the temperatures were almost cold once the sun went down. As she pulled her hair from the collar, she added: "Archie will stop by at one point too."
Mal raised an eyebrow. "Robin's okay with that?"
"Yes, he is," Regina said. "He understands how important Archie is to me and Henry."
"Just checking," she replied. "Robin seems to be a pretty understanding and laidback guy but he also seems to be big on family. I would figure he'd be a stickler for keeping family celebrations to, you know, family."
Regina frowned, straightening up to look at Mal. "Robin is big on family but doesn't give a fuck about blood ties. He's all about found family, just like me. So Archie is family. Tink is family. John is family. Granny is family. You are family."
Mal's expression softened. "You consider me family?"
"Of course we do," Regina told her, shouldering her bag. "And you would be invited over if I didn't know you already have plans for Mother's Day yourself."
"Yes, I do. Not that I know what they are exactly. Lily refuses to tell me anything. Not even how to dress – she says she's going to handle that," Mal told her, rolling her eyes.
Regina grinned, knowing where Lily was going to take her mother that weekend. She had been sworn to secrecy and didn't want to give her friend any clue she knew. "I'm sure it'll be fine. Lily has a great sense of fashion," she told Mal.
"I guess so," she replied with a sigh. "You just know how I feel."
"I know. I usually feel the same. But I've been learning how to be more spontaneous and to trust my loved ones," Regina said.
Mal looked her up and down before smirking. "You and Robin have barely been married half a year and you're already changing."
Regina raised an eyebrow. "I prefer growing."
"Fair enough," her friend allowed. "Either way, I like it. It's about time you let someone lift you up rather than tear you down."
They left the office together, locking it up. Once they got to the parking lot, Regina said her goodbyes to her friend. "Happy Mother's Day, Mal. I'll see you Monday."
"Happy Mother's Day, Regina," Mal replied, unlocking her car and getting into it. As she started it up, Regina walked toward her car to head home as well.
She unlocked her car and opened the passenger door, placing her bag on the seat. Closing it, she heard a familiar voice that sent a chill down her spine. "I thought you two would never leave."
"Mother," she said tersely. She turned around to find Cora standing next to her car, wearing a black power suit and her brown hair immaculately coiffed. It looked like she was there for a dinner date rather than to undoubtedly harass Regina.
Regina crossed her arms. "What are you doing here?"
"You won't take our calls," Cora replied, stepping forward. "I wanted to talk to you."
"I don't think I'm allowed to talk to you," Regina told her, trying to step away from her. "I'm suing you, remember?"
Cora paused, waving her hand dismissively. "Oh, right. That unpleasantness."
"Unpleasantness? You stole from my trust and made me lick your boots to get money that was always mine," Regina argued, feeling her anger over the situation rising again.
"That's a bit colorful, dear, but you always had a flair for the dramatics. I'm sure if we talk this over, we can come to a peaceful resolution that doesn't involve dragging this through the courts and media," her mother replied as if she were commenting on the weather.
Regina scowled at her. "No."
Cora frowned. "You're being unreasonable."
"Translation – I'm not doing what you want me to do," Regina replied, heading toward the driver's side door. "I'm not going to dinner with you, Mother. Goodnight."
"What about Sunday? It's Mother's Day. You and Henry should come up to the house for brunch," Cora replied, almost sounding desperate.
Cora Mills-Blanchard never sounded desperate.
Regina paused before slowly turning around, tilting her head as she studied her mother. Cora was trying to keep her poker face but Regina could see some sadness lurking in her eyes. Did it really mean that much to her for Regina and Henry to see her on Mother's Day? Or was something else going on?
"I already have plans on Mother's Day with my family," she replied, knowing she had to hold firm. "I'm sure you'd rather celebrate with Zelena and Poppy anyway."
"Your sister and her family have their own plans," Cora said, trying to keep her voice light. "The same with Mary Margaret."
Regina already knew Mary Margaret had declined to go to Mother's Day brunch, explaining that she usually had gone in the past to support Regina as she didn't really consider Cora much of a mother. Yet Zelena was always eager to get their mother's approval, so why would she not attend brunch this year? Or not even include Cora in her plans? Something wasn't right.
But she didn't have time to figure out what was really going on. She was tired, hungry and just done.
"I don't have all night to play your games, Mother. I need to get home. And it's probably best if the next time you have anything to say to me, you have your lawyer talk to mine," Regina said, opening the door and finally getting in.
Cora caught the door. "I understand. You are stubborn and you don't want to admit you made a mistake. But I promise you, if you come back now and drop this silly lawsuit, everything can go back to normal and all will be forgiven."
"No," Regina said firmly. "Now let go of my door or I will hit the panic button and make a scene."
"That man has changed you," her mother sniffed.
Regina nodded. "You're right. His love and support have given me the strength to stand up to you and you don't like that. Now, let go."
She held up her keys, her thumb hovering over the panic button. One push and her car's alarm would go off, sending security running from the courthouse. Cora wouldn't like the embarrassment that would cause, so Regina knew she would back down.
"Fine," Cora replied, letting go of the door. "But you'll regret this. One day you'll come crawling back and I may not be inclined to forgive you."
Regina closed the door on her mother, gripping the steering wheel and staring straight ahead. She took a few calming breaths before sticking her key in the ignition, turning her car on. The last thing she would ever do was crawl back to her mother. No matter what happened with Robin, that much would always be true.
She pulled out of her spot and as she headed to the exit, she looked around the parking lot for her mother or her car. Neither were there, so she felt confident that Cora had left and gone some place else. As long as it was far away from her and her family, Regina didn't care where she went.
It was a short ride home, which meant she could spend more time with her family but it also meant she couldn't shake off her conversation with her mother before facing them. She took a few more calming breaths in her car before heading inside, hoping she was able to hide it a bit longer.
"Mom!" Henry and Roland raced toward her, hugging her. She stumbled backwards a bit but steadied herself as she hugged them back.
Robin stepped out of the kitchen, smiling at them. "Is there room for me in this welcome party?"
"Of course," she said, motioning with her head for him to come closer.
He did so, leaning past their sons to give her a quick kiss. Robin pulled back, his eyes searching hers before he frowned. Gently pulling Roland and Henry from her, he said: "Please go wash up for dinner."
They let go of Regina, racing each other to the bathroom. Regina would've called after them but Robin stopped her, rubbing her arm. "What's wrong?" he asked softly.
She had hoped she had hidden her distress a bit better but she was starting to accept that Robin was able to read her like a book. "My mother waylaid me outside work. She even waited for Mal to leave."
"What did she want?" he asked, anger and concern flashing in his eyes.
"To invite Henry and me over for Mother's Day brunch," she replied. "And to talk about the trust situation."
He made a face. "I hope you told her to go fuck herself."
"Not in those exact words but close to it," she said, hanging up her jacket and removing her shoes. "Can we talk about it later? I just want to have a pleasant dinner with you and the boys."
"Okay," he said, nodding. Though he looked hesitant to do so, he changed the subject. "We made you something bland so as not to upset your stomach."
She tried not to make a face, knowing they were trying to take care of her. Her stomach had been bothering her for the past week or so, something she just couldn't seem to kick. Robin had been trying to get her to see Whale for a check up but she didn't want to make a big fuss about it, though it was tiring and worrisome that she only kept a third of her meals down. She had her suspicions now and she wanted a chance to test her theory before she went to the doctor's office.
And she wanted food that actually had flavor.
Roland and Henry returned from the bathroom. They both held up their hands for inspection. "All clean," Henry said.
"Very good," she praised them. She gave Robin's arm a squeeze. "I'm just going to go change and I'll join you at the table in a few minutes."
Though Robin gave her a concerned look, he nodded. He kissed her cheek. "Take your time, sweetheart. We can wait for you."
He ushered the boys into the next room as she headed upstairs. She changed out of her suit and put on a lightweight shirt as well as a pair of jeans. Her stomach growled and she chuckled, patting it. "Okay, okay," she said. "Let's go eat."
She went downstairs, entering the dining room. A salad bowl sat in the middle of the table and she spotted strips of grilled chicken sitting on a plate next to it. Different types of dressing sat on the table as well, including a very light raspberry dressing she liked. She pressed her hands to her heart, touched at the amazing dinner her boys had made for her.
"This looks and smells delicious," she told them, taking her seat. "Thank you."
Roland beamed while Henry studied her with concern. He leaned closer to her. "Are you feeling better, Mom?"
"Right now, yes," she said, her stomach growling again. She chuckled. "And as you can hear, I am hungry."
"Then I think we should let Mom take her food and begin eating," Robin told the boys, winking at her.
They both nodded and pushed the food toward her. "Go ahead, Mom," Henry chirped. "You first."
She shook her head, pushing it back. "Oh no. I am still a mother and there is no way I am eating before my children. You and Roland help yourselves first and then I'll take it."
"Can you help me, please?" Roland asked her, holding out his plate to her. She nodded, scooping some salad onto his plate before Robin placed some cut up chicken on it.
Regina turned to Henry, scooping some salad onto his plate. "Enjoy, sweetheart," she told him.
"Thanks, Mom," he replied before turning to Robin for some chicken.
Meanwhile, Regina helped herself to some salad. As she put the tongs back, Robin placed several pieces of chicken on her plate as well. He kissed her cheek before straightening up. "Enjoy, sweetheart."
"I will," she said, sprinkling the vinaigrette over her salad before spearing some chicken along with the lettuce. She chewed it, relishing the taste. It didn't seem to bother her stomach and she continued to eat, feeling as if she hadn't eaten in days.
As they ate, her family chatted around her. It was mostly the boys, who happily recounted their exciting day at school as it was field day. Regina smiled as they talked about the different games they played, knowing she would never give this up. She didn't know what her mother's endgame was but Regina was not going to let Cora mess with her family.
"Are you sure you don't want any wine?" Robin asked Regina, pouring himself a glass of whiskey.
She nodded as she hugged him from behind. "I don't want to take any chances by overloading my stomach."
"Good point," he said, knowing how sick she had been the past week or so. It worried him but she did seem to be on the bend. He didn't want to chance setting her back.
Robin turned around, wrapping his arm around her. He motioned toward the doorway with his head. "Why don't we go cuddle on the couch before bed?"
"That sounds like a great plan," she said, leaning into him as they walked out of the kitchen together.
In the living room, they curled up together on the couch. Robin wrapped a blanket around them as Regina turned on the TV, though it was mostly for background noise. Neither was interested in watching it, especially when there was a question still rattling around Robin's brain from earlier.
"So, you ready to tell me what happened with your mother?" he asked her, playing with her hair. It was clear that she had been unnerved by the conversation earlier even though she had tried to hide it for their boys' sakes.
She sighed, cuddling closer to him. "I don't know, it was just weird. She said that she would be alone for Mother's Day if Henry and I didn't come."
He frowned before asking: "What about Zelena? I figured she would be up there to play the role of the dutiful daughter."
"Me too," Regina replied, "but Mother said she has other plans. I didn't want to ask her why they didn't involve her. I just wanted to get away from her."
"I don't blame you," he replied, rubbing her arm now. "I'm sorry you were ambushed like that."
She shrugged. "I've been expecting it honestly. Now that my lawsuit is proceeding, I figured she would try to bully me into dropping it sooner than later."
"You should let Midas and French know that she's trying to contact you. Maybe they can send a cease and desist letter or something," Robin suggested, wanting to keep that awful woman as far away from his wife as possible.
"I'll let them know about today's meeting but I don't think I have to go that far just yet," she replied.
He hummed before saying: "Whatever you want."
"Thank you," she said softly. She then said: "I'm still curious about my sister but I definitely don't want to call her."
"Do you think Mary Margaret would know? Maybe her father has said something to her?" he asked, knowing that his sister-in-law always seemed to have her finger on the pulse of what happened in the Mills-Blanchard mansion.
He pulled away, noticing a thoughtful look in her eyes. She nodded. "That sounds like a good idea."
"I'm known to have them every once and a while," he joked.
She chuckled, nodding. "Yeah."
He kissed the top of her head again. "Do you feel better now that you have a plan?"
"I do," she replied, giving his knee a squeeze. "You know me so well."
"Well, I am your husband. Pretty sure it's my job," he told her, easing down until they were both lying on the couch.
She cuddled closer to him, her eyes starting to close. "I really like hearing you say that."
"It's my job?" he asked her, teasing her slightly. He knew what she meant but he wanted to hear her say it.
Regina obliged him. "That you're my husband."
He kissed her nose. "I love saying it."
She smiled, snuggling closer to him. He kissed the top of her head, still worried about her health. While it appeared she was keeping dinner down, he knew she probably needed lots of rest to help her build rebuild its energy. "Do you want to go to bed?"
"Will you come with me?" she asked, curling her fingers around his shirt. "If not, I want to stay here and cuddle."
"I will come and cuddle with you in bed. We can also watch something up there if you want," he told her, thinking of the TV from his house that he had put in their bedroom so they could watch a few shows while cuddling in bed.
He helped her up and they headed upstairs. Within minutes, they were changed into their pajamas and climbed into bed. Robin picked up the remote as she curled against him, resting her head against his chest. He wrapped one arm around her as he asked: "Anything you want to watch?"
"Not really," she replied, playing with his t-shirt. "I'll be fine with whatever you pick."
"Okay," he said, turning on the TV and going through the guide. He settled on an episode of Bones, knowing Regina was fond of the series.
After placing the remote on the nightstand, he brought his other arm around to hold her even closer. They lay there for some time, watching the team investigate whatever the case of the week had been. Robin pressed his cheek to Regina's head, certain she was falling asleep until she spoke up during the commercial break.
"I can't stop thinking about my mother," she confessed.
He frowned, grabbing the remote to lower the volume. "What about her?"
"I just want to know what she wants," she said with a sigh. "Why is she seeking me out now?"
"I know the answer to the first," Robin replied, rocking her gently.
She looked up at him, a soft smile on her lips. "Oh? Care to share?"
"Sure. Well, she wants you to divorce me and return to being under her control so she could continue stealing your money," he replied.
"That's probably all true," she said. She then asked: "So any theories about why she is seeking me out now?"
He shrugged. "On one hand, I think she figured the honeymoon would be over for us."
"Nope," Regina replied with a grin, giving him a squeeze as she pressed a quick kiss to his lips.
Robin gave her another quick kiss before pulling back, smiling. "She's going to be waiting a long time before I ever consider not being married to you."
"Same here," she assured him. "Now, you said on one hand. So what's on the other hand?"
"That the answer probably lies in the reason why Zelena isn't celebrating Mother's Day with her," he replied, almost certain that Cora was responding due to her most loyal daughter's apparent abandonment.
Regina hummed, resting her head on his chest again. "You're probably right. I should probably put it all from my mind for now."
"You won't get any argument from me," he told her, smiling down at her. "I could give you other things to think about instead."
She smiled coyly at him. "I thought you didn't want to have sex because you were afraid of wearing me out after I've been so sick?"
He chuckled, knowing that had been true. And he was still hesitant to do so. Yet he wanted her to sleep well, so he was debating it. For now, he offered a compromise. "What about a massage?"
Regina's eyes lit up. "That sounds wonderful."
"Good," he replied, turning off the TV. "Lie on your stomach and I'll massage your back for you."
She bit her lip, looking sheepish. "Actually, could I ask you to massage my feet? While the heels I wear make my ass look fine, they are killer on my arches."
He chuckled, nodding as he propped up one of their pillows. "Your wish is my command, milady. Just make yourself comfortable and I will get to work."
"You're the best," she said with a sigh, settling back against the pillow. She lifted her right foot. "Can you start with this one?"
"Whatever you want," he said, taking her foot in his hand. He began to massage it, paying special attention to her arches, as she closed her eyes. She let out a soft moan and he grinned, happy to please her.
She slowly sank down until she was almost lying on the bed again. "Oh, this might be better than sex."
He chuckled. "Is that so?"
"Mm-hmm," she hummed. She then paused before saying: "Well, getting eaten out by you might be better than this."
"I know how much you love that," he said, placing her right foot down and moving to her left foot. "I love it too."
She smiled, nodding. "It's one of the many, many reasons why I love you."
He grinned. "I love you too."
Robin finished with her left foot and set it down. He rubbed both her legs as he asked: "Do you need anything else?"
She didn't respond. Her chest rose in even breaths and she had a peaceful smile, deep in sleep. Robin grinned, settling in next to her. He turned off the lamp before wrapping his arms around her, joining her in slumber.
Regina spent another early morning hunched over her toilet as her dinner came back up. She gasped for air as she pressed her hand to her hot forehead, wishing she could find some way to stop this. It was annoying and scary that she couldn't keep meals down and that she was in the bathroom to be sick more than anything.
She reached into the cabinet and pulled out the brown paper bag she had stuffed in the back a couple days earlier. Opening it, she slid the box inside out onto the counter. A pack of home pregnancy tests sat there, waiting for her to use. Her symptoms had gone on too long to be a normal stomach bug. And given her agreement with Robin to just let nature take its course, she knew it was a likely cause. She wanted to either confirm it or rule it out before going to the doctor.
After peeing on the first stick, she placed it on the counter and set a timer on her phone. She perched on the tub as she waited for the results, wondering if her life was about to change yet again.
The door opened and Robin peeked in, frowning. "Regina, sweetheart, are you okay?"
"No," she replied honestly. She held out her hand to him and he quickly closed the door behind him. He took her hand and sat down on the tub next to her.
He tucked some loose hairs behind her ear. "Do you need me to do anything? Get you anything?"
"Just sit here with me for another minute," she said. "Please."
"Okay," he replied softly, leaning forward and pressing his forehead to hers. She closed her eyes, enjoying being with him as she waited for the timer to go off.
The chimes echoed around the bathroom and she took a deep breath, pulling away from Robin as she silenced her phone. She glanced at the sink counter. "It's time."
He stood with her, letting out a soft gasp as she picked up the test. She held it up, her eyes focusing on the two pink lines in the window. It took a few moments for her mind to process what it meant.
She was pregnant.
"Oh my god," Robin breathed before kissing the side of her head. "Morning sickness. Why didn't I realize it?"
"When we agreed to let nature take its course, we didn't expect it to happen so fast," she replied, laughter bubbling up as joy started to replace the surprise. She turned to him, beaming as tears filled her eyes. "We're going to be parents."
He laughed, pulling her in for a hug. She wrapped her arms around him as he swung her around in the bathroom, yelling: "We're going to have a baby!"
Robin set her back on her feet, cupping her face as he looked in her eyes. "I love you so much, Regina."
"I love you too," she said, running her hands over his arms. "I honestly never thought I'd have this – a chance to be pregnant, to feel a child grow inside me. So thank you."
He smiled, leaning in to kiss her. She raised her hand, pressing it against his lips as her stomach rolled again. "Hold that thought," she told him.
She fell to her knees as she was sick again into the toilet. Robin knelt behind her, holding back her hair and rubbing her back. While she was glad to have an answer and to know she was going to have a baby, she didn't know how she was going to make it through at least two more months of not keeping anything down.
But it was going to be worth it in the end.
Robin set a plate of toast in front of Regina. He rubbed her back. "Do you want anything with the toast? Jelly? Apple butter?"
She perked up at that. "Apple butter, please."
"Okay," he said, kissing her head before heading over to the refrigerator.
As she waited for her apple butter, Regina sipped at her tea. It helped settle her stomach and gave her hope that she would be able to keep the toast down. But that would still be up to the baby in the end.
The baby.
It still felt strange to realize she was pregnant and had a baby growing inside her. She pressed a hand to her stomach and smiled, eager to meet her child with Robin.
"Here you go," he said, setting the jar down next to her. "Do you need anything else?"
She shook her head, opening up the jar. "This should be all for now. Why don't you make something for yourself?"
He nodded, kissing her forehead. "Just let me know if you need anything. Or if what I'm making makes you feel sick."
"I'm fine," she told him, giving him a little push. "Don't worry about me."
"Nice try. I'm going to worry about you for the next nine months," he told her as he backed away from the table.
Regina had never wanted to be fussed over but the more time she spent married to Robin, the more she enjoyed the moments where he took care of her. She found she didn't mind the thought of him waiting on her as her pregnancy progressed. After years of living with her monster of a mother, it felt nice to know someone cared for her.
"What do you want to tell the boys?" he asked, pouring himself some cereal.
She sighed taking another bite of her toast as she thought it over. While part of her didn't want to get their hopes up if her pregnancy proved not viable, she also didn't want them to worry about how sick she constantly was. "I think we should wait until I see the doctor and then tell them the truth," she said.
"I agree," he replied, joining her at the table. "It'll be difficult to hide this from them for another two months, at the least."
"It will. I don't even know how I'm going to hide it from everyone else," she said, sipping her tea as she thought about all the people she encountered during the day. She knew it would still be a few more months before she started showing but she didn't know how long she could hide the other symptoms.
Robin reached out, taking her hand in his. "I know but we'll do it together. I mean, we've kept how we really got married from everyone else."
"True," she admitted, "though we did have to tell a few people. Archie, Mary Margaret, David and John all know the truth. So does Tink but I'm now pretty sure she works for Santa."
He laughed. "I wouldn't be surprised, honestly."
"We'll probably have to tell one or all of them before we hit the three-month mark," she said, knowing one of them would figure it out first. Her money was on Tink – her friend just had a sixth sense about these things.
Or a magical ability. Regina wasn't too sure anymore after that past Christmas and learning Santa Claus was real.
Robin nodded. "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it, yeah?"
"That sounds like a good plan," she said, taking another bite of her toast. She swallowed before smiling. "Thank you."
"For what?" he asked.
She shrugged. "Everything, I guess. You're just being so great despite all the change we've experienced in the past few months."
"We have been through a lot," he agreed. He then gave her a concerned look. "Are you okay with this?"
"With the pregnancy?" she asked. When he nodded, she said: "Yes, I am. I know we're moving pretty fast but we have been since Christmas. And just like our marriage feels so right, so does this. You know?"
He smiled, nodding. "I know. And I am so happy we are having this baby."
"Me too," she replied, leaning forward. He met her halfway and they shared a sweet kiss. They then sat back and continued eating their breakfasts, enjoying each other and the quiet before their boys woke up.
After breakfast, Robin ushered his boys into a room away from their mother. He clapped his hands. "Okay, boys. Time to get ready for tomorrow. So I need you two to get dressed and put on your shoes," he said.
"Where are we going?" Roland asked, tilting his head.
"We need to pick up your gift for Mom," he said, "and then we need to pick up the food for our Mother's Day picnic."
They nodded before jumping up to head to their rooms. Robin followed, heading to the master bedroom to change. Before he slipped into his room, he said: "When you're done, wait for me by the door, okay?"
"Okay," both boys called out before closing their doors.
Robin quickly changed before grabbing the list he had made the day before. He tucked it into his wallet, which he stuffed into his pocket. After running his brush through his hair, he headed downstairs to wait for the boys.
"Where are you off to?" Regina asked, leaning against the living room doorway. She looked him over, raising an eyebrow.
"Just need to pick up some things for tomorrow," he said, approaching her once his sneakers were on. "I'm taking the boys with me. Give you some peace and quiet."
She tilted her head. "Is that you trying to tell me to get some rest?"
He shook his head. "I'm telling you that you have the whole house to do whatever will make you happy. Nap, clean, whatever."
"You know me so well," she said, chuckling as she gently gripped his shirt. She pulled him closer, giving him a quick kiss.
Breaking the kiss as the boys came down the stairs, she patted his chest. "Have a good trip."
"Thank you," he said. He grabbed the boys' sneakers and handed them to their rightful owner. Robin then watched as they put them on, tying their laces.
Once they were ready, he held out his hands to them and helped them up. "Say goodbye to your mum and then we'll head out to the car."
Henry and Roland ran over to her, hugging her. She hugged them back, kissing their heads. "Be good for your father."
"We will," they promised.
She sent them off toward the door as Robin leaned in for a quick kiss. "We'll probably be gone a couple hours. Do you want us to bring you back lunch?"
Regina bit her lip and he knew she was debating if she wanted to chance that now that they knew what was causing her nausea. She patted his chest before saying: "I'll text you in a bit to let you know. How does that sound?"
"Sounds good," he said, ushering the boys out of the house. She followed, stopping in the doorway to watch as they climbed into his truck.
Robin climbed into the driver's seat and buckled himself up. Looking back, he smiled at his boys. "You two buckled in?"
Both nodded, pulling on the straps across their chest as proof. Robin gave them a thumb's up before pointing out the window. "Wave goodbye to Mom and we'll get going."
They leaned closer to the window as they waved at Regina. He backed the truck down the driveway and pulled out onto the street. With one last wave to his wife, he started down the street.
"Where are we going first, Papa?" Roland asked.
"Ms. Cecelia's photography studio," he replied. "Your portraits are framed and wrapped, so they are ready to be picked up."
Roland's face fell. "We're not going to wrap them on our own?"
For a moment, Robin felt guilty as he shook his head. But he then recalled his reasoning. "It's a pretty big picture frame. I can't wrap it and we want it to look nice for Mum, right?"
Both boys looked thoughtful before nodding. "I guess so. Can we make cards for her instead then?" Roland asked.
"That's a great idea. We'll pick up some supplies at the store," Robin said, pleased with the solution his son came up with.
Henry's expression brightened as well. "Mom loves when I make her cards. She keeps all of them."
"Do you think she'll keep mine?" Roland asked, his eyes wide.
"Of course she will," Henry replied. "You're her son too now."
Robin nodded. "Henry's right. I'm sure she's going to save all your artwork like I have over the years."
"You have?" Roland asked, surprised.
"Of course," he said. "They're all in a trunk your grandfather made. I keep it in my office."
Roland's eyes widened. "Really? Cool!"
Henry bit his lip before asking: "Have you saved anything I've given you?"
"I have," Robin told him. "In addition to the card you gave me this year, I also kept the birthday card you made me last year."
He smiled brightly. "You did?"
Robin nodded. "You worked really hard on it and I wanted to save it."
"But I wasn't your son then," Henry replied.
"I know, but you were still important to me. And you were like a son to me. Santa just made it all real," Robin replied, smiling at both of his boys using the rearview mirror. They both beamed back at him.
He turned into a nearby parking lot and celebrated in his head when he saw a spot right in front of the store they needed. Robin pulled into it and put the truck into park. "We're here," he told the boys.
After helping them down from the truck, he ushered them into the studio. The bell rang as they entered and Cecelia emerged from the back with a bright smile. "Ahh, it's the Locksley-Mills men. Good to see you all," she said.
"Hello, Cecelia. We're here to pick up the portrait," he said, smiling at her.
She nodded, reaching over and lifting up a large square wrapped in brown paper. "I decided to use the plain paper so the boys could decorate it when you get home," she explained.
Gratitude filled Robin as Henry and Roland bounced beside him. "We appreciate that. Thank you, Cecelia."
"You're welcome," she said, handing him the wrapped frame. "I know Regina is going to love it."
"Thank you for all your hard work. You're going to help make Mother's Day special for her," he replied. "And happy Mother's Day to you. I hope you have big plans with your family tomorrow."
Her smile faltered a bit. "Not really. I know Marcus and Ella will do something for me but Victoria has Anastasia and Ivy this weekend so we're going to have our big Mother's Day celebration next weekend."
Robin nodded, knowing that he and Regina had an easier time than most blending their families. They didn't have any other parents to work with and custody agreements to uphold, unlike some people. But it sounded like Cecelia and Marcus were making it work. "Well, I'm sure your Mother's Day celebration is going to be amazing. And you won't have to fight the crowds," he said.
She chuckled. "That will be a plus, I'm sure. But as long as I have all my girls, I'll be happy."
"Well, Happy Mother's Day to you," Robin told her. Beside him, Henry and Roland echoed the sentiment.
"Thank you," she replied, looking down at the boys. "And tell your mom I say Happy Mother's Day to her too."
They promised to do that before saying goodbye. Robin ushered them out of the store and they placed the gift in the bed of his truck. Once they were all buckled in the cab, Robin started the truck again. "Alright. Let's head to the arts and craft store and then we'll call Mum to see what she wants for lunch."
"She'll probably want Granny's," Henry said. "Especially since her stomach has been bothering her lately."
Roland nodded before looking concerned. "Is Mom feeling better?"
Biting his lip, Robin thought through how he wanted to answer that question. He and Regina both agreed it was best to wait to tell the boys about the baby until after she saw the doctor but he didn't want to worry them either. Nor did he want to tell them that everything was okay and then have them worry when Regina was sick later that day or the next.
"She's feeling a little better but her stomach may still bother her," he said, figuring that was the closest to the truth. "But she has a doctor's appointment this week and we'll find out what's going on."
"Is she going to be okay?" Roland asked, sounding fearful now. Robin cursed himself. Even though his son was too young to remember Marian's battle with cancer, he did know his Mama got very sick and then went to live with the angels. He had to be worried the same would happen to Regina.
Robin nodded. "She's going to be fine."
"Dr. Whale will make her all better," Henry assured his brother, taking his hand and giving it a squeeze. It warmed Robin's heart and he couldn't wait to see how both boys would be with a new brother or sister.
They headed into the arts and crafts store, picking up the supplies they would need to make cards and decorate the brown paper wrapped around Regina's gifts. After that was the grocery store, picking up everything for the picnic he had planned. He loaded up the back of his truck before making sure Henry and Roland were buckled in the back. Robin climbed into the driver's seat and called his wife, popping in his Bluetooth device.
"You three having fun?" she asked once she answered.
"We are," he told her. "We have everything we need for your present so we're ready to get lunch. Is there anything you want?"
She paused and he knew she was thinking. "My stomach feels a little bit more settled but you know what I'm craving? Granny's Italian wedding soup."
He chuckled. "The boys figured you would want Granny's. We'll make a stop there. Do you want anything else besides the soup?"
"Just if she could add in her homemade croutons," Regina said. "I love those."
"Alright, soup and homemade croutons. Got it. I'll text you when we're on our way home," he told her before they ended the call.
He glanced at the boys in the rearview mirror. "Looks like we're heading to Granny's. You two know what you want?"
They both nodded. Roland hesitated before asking: "Is Mom okay?"
"She is," he assured his son. "She just really wants Italian wedding soup from Granny's."
"Mom really loves that soup there," Henry agreed. He then perked up. "Can I get chicken fingers, please?"
Robin chuckled. "Yes, you may. What about you, Roland? What would you like from Granny's?"
His son thought about it before saying: "I'd like a hamburger with French fries, please. Can I get a milkshake too?"
"Sure," Robin said, figuring it was a special occasion weekend. And he wanted the boys to celebrate even if they didn't know yet about their future sibling. So he looked at Henry. "You want one too?"
"Yes, please," he said eagerly.
Robin chuckled. "Okay. You both want chocolate or another flavor?"
"Chocolate!" Roland exclaimed happily.
Beside him, Henry hesitated. He then asked: "Can I get strawberry?"
"Of course," Robin said. He had noticed the boy had been exploring his other flavor options lately and had been on a strawberry kick as the spring grew warmer.
They pulled into the parking lot and he parked next to Granny's. "Okay, let's go order our lunch," he told the boys. "And then let's go back to your mother."
As they got out of the truck and headed toward the entrance, Robin knew this was going to be a great weekend – and the next Mother's Day was going to be even better, even if he was wrangling an infant in addition to two rambunctious older boys.
"Where are the boys?" Regina asked Robin as he entered their living room. He and the boys had disappeared after lunch to complete her Mother's Day gift so she hadn't seen them for most of the day.
Robin sat down next to her and wrapped his arm around her. "They're playing in Henry's room. How are you?"
"I'm fine," she replied, leaning against him. "Breakfast came back up but so far lunch is staying down. Who knows what will happen with dinner?"
"Well, we'll deal with it when the time comes," he replied. "So what did you do while we were out?"
She sat up, eager to tell him what she had learned while he was gone. "I was going to call Mary Margaret but got a call from Hades instead. He's left my sister and wanted to tell me himself."
Robin's eyes widened and he sat up straighter as well. "Really? Did he say why he left her?"
"He worried about Poppy," she replied, her heart hurting again as she recalled the pain in her brother-in-law's voice. "He sees how Mother traumatized me and Zelena and doesn't want the same for his daughter. Zelena is firmly under Mother's thumb and nothing he said or did could get her out. So he decided the best course of action was to leave, which is still surprising. He really does love my sister."
"But he loves Poppy more," Robin said. "You and I both know we would walk away from each other if it was what was best for Roland or Henry."
She nodded, a pang hitting her as she thought about possibly having to walk away from Robin. But she knew one thing: "You're good for Henry."
"And you're good for Roland," he assured her. "I can't see us ever having to make the decision Hades did."
"I agree," she said, taking his hand. She sat there for a few moments, just relishing how much he had changed her life for the better in such a short time.
Remembering the rest of her conversation with Hades, she then sat up. "Oh, and there's more. Zelena moved out of their house and in with Mother and Leopold. But Hades refuses to let Poppy anywhere near Mother so if Zelena wants to spend time with her daughter, she needs to go to Hades' house and stay there the entire time."
"Good for him," he said. "And Poppy deserves to have the entire time with her mother rather than being sent off to some playroom."
"Yeah. It was one of the reasons I always tried to wait as long as possible to go celebrate with my mother," she said softly. "I wanted time with Henry and not to just have him shuffled off to another room until dinner."
"Imagine that, a mother wanting to spend time with her child on Mother's Day," he said sarcastically, making her laugh. They then lapsed into silence before Robin asked: "What do you think is going to happen with Hades and Zelena?"
"I honestly don't know," she replied. "I never thought Hades would actually leave my sister. So I think the ball is in Zelena's court. But that it probably doesn't look good for them. She is very loyal to our mother."
"Why?" he asked.
She sighed, shrugging. "My main theory is that Daddy's death caused her to cling to our mother even more, even when it's clear she's not good for us."
"Pretty good theory," he said. "But it sounds like you have more?"
Reluctantly, she nodded. "I think it might make me sound conceited though."
He rubbed her arm. "It's just me, darling. I won't judge you. Promise."
"I sometimes think that Mother places a lot more of her focus on me than she does on Zelena. And I feel like Zelena is trying to get all her attention, especially the part that's given to me," she told him.
Robin tilted his head before nodded. "I think that makes a lot of sense. Cora likes to control everything. Zelena was willing to be controlled but you weren't. So she's more focused on you because of that, certain Zelena is always going to be loyal."
"And poor Zelena hasn't realized that no matter what, she's never going to get Mother's approval because that's how Mother controls her," Regina replied.
"But that's something she's going to have to realize on her own," he said. "Then she's going to have to find the strength to walk away, just like you did."
She nodded, knowing he was right. But she worried her sister would never find it. "I fear Poppy is going to have a broken heart and grow to resent her mother."
"If she does, then it be Zelena's fault and no one else's. Well, okay, maybe Cora's," he said. He then pulled her in for a hug. "All we can do is be there for Poppy to love and support her."
"Yeah," she replied. "I suppose you're right."
She leaned against him and he wrapped his arm around her, kissing the top of her head. He held her close as he said: "Now, try not to think of your sister or your mother. Just relax and let us pamper you for the rest of the weekend."
"I like the sound of that," she said, smiling. "What do you and the boys have planned for me?"
"Whatever you want," he replied.
An idea crossed Regina's mind. "How about a movie night? We make some finger foods and snacks and just watch movies here in the living room?"
He leaned back, looking at her with a smirk. "Eating in the living room? Who are you and what have you done with Regina Mills?"
She let out a little laugh. "She's right here. She's just been infected with a little Robin Locksley."
"I guess that's one way of putting it," he teased her, pressing a hand to her stomach.
"Yeah." Regina lay her hand over his. "Though no one should get used to this. It's a special occasion and I'm in a good mood."
He nodded. "I'll make sure the boys understand that."
"Good," she replied, kissing him. "We'll let them know in a little bit. It's still too early for dinner."
"So what do you want to do now?" he asked her.
She grinned as something came to her mind. Turning around, she picked up a file folder she had in the living room. "We can discuss the wedding some more."
He chuckled as he moved closer to her. "Alright. What do you want to discuss now?"
"Flower arrangements," she said, pulling out some pictures. "We're getting down to the wire on them. Them and the cake."
"Something tells me it's going to be more fun to pick the cake then the flowers," he said, crinkling his nose.
She chuckled before pressing her hand to her stomach, thinking of her morning sickness. "Well, maybe for you."
He tilted his head, looking her over with a frown. "Do you want to delay the wedding until next year? We're legally married, this is just the ceremony. We can have it later. I want you to be comfortable."
"I appreciate the offer," she said, genuinely touched that he was concerned about her and the baby. She kissed his cheek. "But I really want to have this ceremony before we have the baby. I worry if we don't get this done we'll just keep pushing it off and I want to tell everyone how much I love you."
"I really want to do the same," he replied. "I mean, I loved our little vow exchange at New Year's but I want others to hear them as well."
She smiled, thinking of how the snow fell as they stood in the empty room and exchanged their version of vows in front of Santa Claus. "That was a magical night."
"And I promise you our wedding celebration will be just as magical as that night," he told her.
"I'm sure it will be," she replied, leaning forward and kissing him. She then turned back to her binder. "Now, I know we've been leaning toward the roses but what about hydrangeas?"
Robin's phone alarm went off the following morning but he quickly silenced it. He glanced over at his wife, pleased to find her still asleep. She had spent most of the night in the bathroom, sick, and he was glad she was getting some rest. Leaning over, he pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead before slipping from their bed.
It was Mother's Day and he had a whole day of pampering and celebrating planned for her.
But there was one thing he had to do first.
After changing out of his pajamas, he crept into Roland's room and gently shook his son awake. Roland's eyes blinked open and he sat up, stretching. "Is it time to make Mom breakfast?" he asked.
"Not yet," Robin told him. "We're going to do something for Mama first. So I need you to get dressed."
Roland nodded and he quickly pulled out clothes to wear. With his father's help, he quickly changed and Robin ran a brush though his curls a few time to tame them. They headed downstairs and put on their shoes before slipping from the house. Robin helped his son into the truck and they drove off.
After stopping for some flowers, they pulled up to Storybrooke's cemetery. Robin set Roland down on the ground and handed him one of the bouquets they had purchased. Holding his son's hand, they walked to the mausoleum that sat in the middle of the cemetery.
Opening the door, Robin ushered his son inside. They were the only ones there and so it was quiet as they approached the spot where they had interred Marian's ashes. Robin lifted Roland up and he placed the flowers in the holder next to her nameplate. "Happy Mother's Day, Mama," he said.
"Happy Mother's Day, Marian," Robin said softly, pressing his hand to her nameplate. "We miss you."
"I hope you're having a good day in heaven with your mama and Papa's mama," Roland said, making Robin choke up a bit.
He swallowed. "We love you all," he said.
"And I hope you don't mind that I'm celebrating Mother's Day with my new mom," Roland said. He then frowned, looking at Robin. "Do you think Mama minds?"
Fighting back his tears, Robin shook his head. "I don't think she minds at all. She is probably so happy we found someone who loves us as much as Regina and Henry do."
"Mama just wants us to be happy, right?" Roland asked, glancing at the name plate.
"Right," Robin assured him. "So, is there anything you want to tell Mama before we head back home?"
Roland thought about it before looking at the name plate. He pressed his hand there again as he said: "I love you, Mama."
"We'll be back soon, Marian. Promise," Robin said, almost touching his late wife's name plate. He then kissed his son's head before setting him down on his feet.
Letting out a shaky breath, Robin released the lingering sorrow over Marian's loss. He smiled as he took Roland's hand. "Come on. Let's go home, try to wake Henry and make Mom a nice breakfast."
"Okay," Roland replied, beaming as they left the mausoleum. The sun shone brightly and a soft breeze blew past them. For a moment, Robin thought he caught the scent of Marian's perfume in the air. Though his mind rationalized it as the fragrance of a floral arrangement, his heart believed it was her sending love to him and Roland.
And when it was followed with a hint of vanilla, Regina's preferred scent, his heart took it to be her approval of Regina in his and Roland's life.
He buckled Roland into his booster and then climbed into the driver's seat feeling a bit lighter than before. Robin hadn't realized he needed that sign until that moment but now that he had gotten it, he felt more confident going forward. Now he could focus his attention on Regina and the family they had created together.
Mother's Day was the first day in almost two weeks that Regina hadn't woken up nauseous. She also had something of an appetite as well but she knew not to push herself just yet. And as she looked over her husband's empty spot, she figured Robin would probably have planned a bland breakfast for her anyway. She pushed the blankets back and climbed out of bed, going to look for the rest of her family.
Heading downstairs, she found Robin and the boys setting the kitchen table for breakfast. A bouquet of pink roses sat in the middle, waiting just for her as Robin poured the boys some juice. She cleared her throat and the boys looked up, their faces lighting up as they rushed toward her.
"Happy Mother's Day, Mom!" they exclaimed, hugging her tightly.
She hugged them back, kissing Henry's head and then Roland's. "Thank you so much, sweethearts."
"We made you breakfast," Henry said, tugging on her hand.
Roland nodded. "And don't worry. It's all bland so it won't hurt your tummy and make you sick."
Her heart melted a bit as she approached her chair. There was a plate with toast and jelly as well as a fruit salad and a cup of tea. She hugged the boys again. "Thank you."
"Well, Dad did most of the work," Henry said, motioning to Robin as he stood next to the table.
Robin chuckled. "But you two picked out all the food, so it was more of a group effort than anything."
"I appreciate all your hard work," she said, leaning over to kiss Robin's cheek. "Including yours. Thank you."
He pulled out her chair and held out his hand. "Enjoy your meal, my love."
She smiled, taking his hand and letting him help her as she sat down. She took a sip of her tea and sighed. "This looks perfect. What about you three?"
"I have that covered," Robin assured her. "You eat. We'll be fine."
"Alright," she said, picking up a piece of toast. She started to nibble on it, not wanting to push her luck by overwhelming her stomach.
The boys took their seats, waiting for their breakfast. Henry looked up at her, grinning. "Are you excited it's Mother's Day?" he asked.
"I am," she replied. "I've been looking forward all week to having you three pamper me all day long."
"Well, we've been looking forward to pampering you," Robin said, pulling out some bagels for him and the boys. He started to cut them up so he could toast them.
She grinned, her heart fluttering. "I'm a very lucky woman."
"Are you enjoying your breakfast, Mom?" Roland asked, looking concerned. "You're not feeling sick, right?"
"I'm feeling fine," she assured him, recalling what Robin told her about his worries the night before. She reached out and gave Roland's hand a squeeze. "Everything's fine, sweetheart."
He looked up at her apprehensively. "Are you sure?" he asked.
She nodded, making a note to talk to Roland as soon as they could after her doctor's appointment the next day. "I am."
"Okay," he said as his father placed a bagel with cream cheese down in front of him. Robin kissed his head reassuringly before moving on. Roland started to eat his bagel as she turned back to her breakfast.
Once Robin had given Henry his buttered bagel, he sat down with a bagel full of grape jelly. They ate together and Regina sipped her tea, glad to have her family around her. She also felt freer without the dread of having to go to her mother's later, allowing her to really enjoy Mother's Day for the first time in a long time.
It was already perfect.
"Am I interrupting?"
Robin looked up to find Archie standing at their fence, a bouquet of pink roses in one hand and no doubt Pongo's leash in the other. Jogging over, Robin grinned as he shook his head. "Perfect timing actually. We were just about to start our picnic," he told Regina's best friend.
He opened the gate and Archie walked into the yard, Pongo straining against his leash. Once the gate was closed again, he let the dalmatian loose and Pongo ran straight to Regina first. She petting the dog before sending him to the boys, who were both very eager to play with him.
"Happy Mother's Day," Archie said, handing her the bouquet before hugging her. Regina hugged him back, thanking him.
She then released him and motioned to the bench. "Have a seat. Can we get you anything?"
"We have lemonade, water or juice," Robin offered. "Whatever you prefer."
"Lemonade sounds good, actually, please," Archie said, giving him a grateful smile.
Robin quickly got him a glass of lemonade and returned, handing Archie the glass before sitting down next to Regina. Archie took a sip before saying: "I heard you and the boys have been spoiling Regina all day."
"We have," Robin replied, taking his wife's hand. "It's what she deserves."
"It's been a great day. And deciding not to put up with my mother today has made it immensely better. I should've listened to you sooner about cutting her out of my life," she told Archie.
He chuckled. "I know. But I also know how tight of a grip she had on you and that it would take a lot to undo the mind games she had played with you over the years. I am grateful Robin helped you realize that."
She leaned against Robin and he kissed her forehead, also glad he was able to help her realize that she had the strength to finally stand up to her mother. And that was why he stood by her side, comforting her and supporting her whenever her mother tried to fight her way back into Regina's life. It was never going to work.
Not while he was around. And he had no plans to go anywhere.
"I'm glad you're here to celebrate with us," she replied, reaching out and taking Archie's hand. "You've been a great support over the years. I don't think I could've managed the first few years of Henry's life without you."
"That's what friends are for," he told her, squeezing her hand.
She pulled her hand back before lifting her head. "Oh, I should tell you the news. Hades left Zelena."
"I know," he said.
"You do?" she asked, frowning. "Why didn't you tell…"
She trailed off as Archie gave her a look so pointed, even Robin got the message. Either Hades or Poppy (or possibly both) were patients of his and he needed to preserve their confidentiality. So the news of Hades' separation from Zelena would never have come from him.
"Well," Regina said, recovering after her momentarily pause. "Zelena isn't spending Mother's Day with Mother so she tried to guilt me into visiting her instead. I held firm."
"Good for you," Archie praised her.
She nodded. "I'd like to think this will be a wakeup call for either my mother or sister but I doubt it. They'll probably just keep going on with just each other."
"Or turn on each other," Robin mused out loud, imaging Cora Mills-Blanchard was not someone who took failure or being denied very well. It was likely to him that she would then lash out to whoever was the closest. Leo Blanchard seemed to have enough sense to avoid his wife when she got like that but he believed Zelena would put herself in the line of fire in a misguided attempt to help her mother.
It was sad, really, when he thought about it and he hoped that Hades could finally talk some sense into her like he had been able to do with Regina.
The boys ran over to him, Pongo at their heels. He sat, tail wagging as Roland and Henry tugged on Robin's shirt. "Is it time for presents?" Roland asked as Henry looked on excitedly.
Robin chuckled as he nodded. "I suppose so because I'm pretty sure you two would explode if it isn't."
"Well, we certainly wouldn't want that," Regina said, joining in the joke. "You should go get the presents then."
"Alright," he said, standing. "Why don't you two boys entertain your mother and Archie for me while I go get everything?"
They nodded, climbing into his vacant seat. He watched for a few moments before heading inside and going to where he had hidden Regina's presents. Robin placed the gift bag with his gift around his wrist before picking up the boys' gift. He carried it out and into the yard. Archie caught sight of him and jumped up, hurrying over. "Here, let me help."
"Can you take this?" Robin asked, holding out the gift bag. "Otherwise, I've got a good handle on this."
Archie took the gift bag for him and they returned to the picnic table. Regina's eyes were wide as she took in the present in his hands. "What did you get me that's this big?" she asked.
"You'll have to open it to find out," he told her, setting it down next to her.
"Then I guess I should open it first, huh?" She stood, walking over to it. Looking over the brown paper covering it, she gently ran her fingers over all the drawings and messages the boys had made. "Though I don't want to ruin this special wrapping paper."
Robin handed her a pair of scissors to cut the twine tied around the present, unsurprised by her comment. "Don't worry. It's been wrapped so that you can undo it without ripping it."
"Good," she said, accepting the scissors from him. "It would be a crime to destroy such artwork."
"You're the expert on crime, counselor," he teased her playfully. She gave him a look before cutting the twine and carefully undoing the tape. Regina pulled off the paper and set it aside before gasping when she saw her present.
Knowing that Regina preferred sentimental gifts over expensive ones, Robin had known he had wanted to give her something that involved the boys. Cecelia had painted a portrait of his parents for him a few years earlier, so he went to talk to her about doing something for his wife and she had agreed. Robin gave his favorite picture of Regina and the boys to Cecelia, who had then turned it into a painting. It showed her on the couch with Henry on either side of her and Roland on the other while they all cuddled together under a blanket as they watched a movie together. Henry and Roland had then posed for individual pictures that she had turned to personal portraits that flanked the image. And the frame Cecelia had placed the painting into contained miniatures at the corner, two corners featuring a painting of Henry's baby picture and the other two featuring a painting for Roland's.
Judging by the smile on her face and the tears in her eyes, Robin believed he had nailed this year's Mother's Day gift.
"Do you like it, Mom?" Roland asked her. Beside her, Henry looked on with anticipation for her response.
"I love it," she said, opening her arms. The boys scrambled from their seats and rushed into them. She hugged them, holding them close as she kissed Henry's head and then Roland's. "Thank you so much."
Robin stood back, watching them with what he knew had to be a goofy smile. His heart swelled with love as he took in the sight of her cradling their sons, now on one knee as she ran her fingers through their hair. She whispered soft words to them and they both smiled, looking up at her with love and adoration in their eyes. He considered himself so fortunate to call all of them his family.
And that included the baby growing inside Regina.
She released the boys and reached out to him. "You get a hug too."
"Well, I'm not going to turn that down," he joked, pulling her into his arms. They held each other tightly as she rested her head against his shoulder.
She looked up at him with a soft smile. "Thank you," she whispered.
"You're welcome," he whispered back. "I knew you would treasure it forever."
"Mom, don't forget about Dad's present," Henry said, breaking their hug. They turned to find him pushing the bag toward them.
Regina stepped back and raised an eyebrow. "You got me something?"
"Consider it an addendum to your big present," he replied, smiling as he watched her reach into the bag and pull out a picture frame with copies of the pictures he had given Cecelia so she could paint Henry and Roland.
Her gaze softened. "This is perfect. I am going to put this right on my desk when I go back to the office tomorrow."
"I have the other copies on my desk too," he told her. "They just looked too cute not to display everywhere."
They looked at the boys, who both smiled in unison. Laughter bubbled up Robin's throat and it was joined by Regina's own burst. She leaned against him. "We have two very adorable children."
"Yes, we do," he replied, thinking about how soon it would be three children. He wondered what their baby would like – would they have a boy or a girl? And who would that baby favor? The likely answer was Regina and Robin found he liked the idea of having a little girl just to have a mini version of his wife.
But he would be happy with another son. Regina was very good with both boys and no doubt would easily reign in a gaggle of boys. All he really wanted was a healthy baby, no matter the gender.
"Do you need any help bringing that portrait into the house?" Archie asked, reminding them he was there.
Robin glanced at it and shook his head. "I've got it. But maybe you can help me bring out some things for dinner?"
"Sure," Archie replied. "Whatever you need me to do."
"What about us?" Roland asked, waving his hand as he and Henry stood near their mother.
Robin smiled at them. "You two can stay out here and keep your mother entertained until we get back. Think you can do that?"
They both nodded, hugging her. Regina smiled. "I'm in very good hands."
"Yes, you are," Robin replied, picking up the painting. He then motioned to Archie. "Can you get the door for me, please?"
Archie nodded, jogging over to the door and opening it. Robin carried the painting in and set it down near the door. "We can move that later," he said.
He then led Archie to the kitchen and they gathered everything for dinner. Robin took out the chicken and the marinade he made so he could grill them along with some mixed vegetables. Together, they carried everything out and Robin set himself up at his grill. As he started dinner, he watched Regina play with their boys and Pongo. It made him smile and he was glad that he was able to give her a real Mother's Day at last.
"Boys, your mother and I have something for you." Robin set down two wrapped gifts in front of their sons after dinner on Monday night before sitting down next to Regina. She set down the tea she had been drinking to settle her stomach and took his hand, eager for them to see what lay under the wrapping paper.
Henry and Roland frowned, looking at each other before looking at their parents. "Why are we getting gifts?" Henry asked, clearly confused.
"Is it about the wedding?" Roland asked, no doubt remembering the gifts Robin and Regina had picked out recently for their wedding parties.
She shook her head. "Just open them and I think everything will be explained."
They tore into the wrapping paper, pulling it off to reveal the boxes underneath. Both opened them and pushed back the tissue paper, staring at the shirts resting there. Their eyes went big and Henry looked up. "Really?" he asked hopefully.
"Yes," she said. "I took the test over the weekend and Dr. Whale confirmed it this morning. You two will be big brothers sometime around the New Year."
"That's why Mom hasn't been feeling well lately," Robin added, mostly addressing it to Roland. They both hoped it would comfort him to know that Regina's nausea was just morning sickness and not something worse.
Roland looked up at Regina. "So you're okay?"
"Yes," she replied. "I will most likely still be sick to my stomach for a couple more months and I might get tired more easily but otherwise, I'm fine. Just pregnant."
He jumped out of his chair and rushed toward her, hugging her. A few moments later, Henry did the same. She held her sons close, kissing the top of their heads before pulling back. "So, what are we feeling about becoming brothers?" she asked.
"Excited," Henry said. "I've always wanted a brother and now I'm going to have two!"
"Well, it could be a girl. Would you be okay with a sister?" Robin asked him, looking a bit hesitant.
Henry paused, thinking it over. "I think so."
"How about you?" Regina asked Roland. "Would you be okay if you had a sister rather than a brother?"
"Yeah, I think having a little sister would be cool," he replied. "Just as long as she doesn't force me to have tea parties all the time."
Robin and Regina laughed as she kissed his head. "Don't worry, we'll make sure we that if we have a girl, she'll play nicely with you two. But you two have to promise to play nicely with your new sibling – brother or sister."
"I promise," Henry said.
Roland nodded. "I do too."
She hugged the two of them as well. "I know this is going to be a lot of change for one year but I know we'll be fine together."
"We've come this far and we've only gotten stronger," Robin agreed, hugging them as well. "And I think that will keep happening."
"Absolutely," she agreed, giving him a soft smile. She then leaned closer and gave him a quick kiss before whispering: "Thank you."
He grinned, kissing her forehead. "No, thank you."
They stood like a bit longer, just sharing a hug as a family. Regina knew things were going to get even crazier now but she felt more prepared now that she knew she wasn't going to do it alone. With Robin by her side, she could make it through anything.
And in the end, they would only be stronger as a family.
A/N: Regina certainly got a great Mother's Day present! So now little Miss Holly is on her way, even if her parents and brothers don't know she'll be a girl just yet.
Next time – it's time for Robin and Regina's wedding ceremony!
-Mac