This is dedicated to rachael728once since today is her birthday! Happy birthday!

Chapter 21: A Brief Respite

Walking grew more difficult as her pregnancy advanced and the child inside her grew. She waddled more than she walked, which meant it took her a longer time to get anywhere. Everyone was patient with her, from Tink right up to Robin. It seemed the only one frustrated with her slower pace was her.

"There's no need to rush," Robin told her, holding onto her elbow as they approached the Great Hall. "No one can start without us."

She scowled at him. "Which is going to do wonders for my popularity here at your court. Who is going to like the woman keeping them from eating?"

"They aren't going to think that. Not when all of them know you're with child. No one is going to say anything against the mother of their future king," Robin told her.

"So they just like me for our child," she replied, feeling insulted and petulant. "Wonderful."

He sighed, stopping them so he could turn to face her. Robin rubbed her arms. "You know that's not what I meant."

She crossed her arms, growing angrier with each passing moment and not caring that they were arguing while the court waited in the Great Hall. "Oh really? Then what did you mean?"

"I meant that they understand what you are going through," he replied. "They respect you now, Regina. After how you handled yourself in that trial, they see you as a queen. I can see it in their eyes. So, yes, it's because you're carrying our son."

"Nice save," she said, only somewhat placated by him changing his emphasis. She knew he meant it—that he saw Regina, not the Queen nor the mother of the future king. However, she still didn't know if the court saw her or just an extension of Robin.

He kissed her forehead. "Come on. Let's go eat. I'm hungry and I bet you are too."

"I am but everything is going to be cold by the time we get there!" she huffed, taking his arm again.

"The servants will keep our food warm, do not worry."

"I just hate how slow I am," she replied, also hating how she was almost whining. Robin just kissed her head, knowing he had no other response that would soothe her at this moment.

Two guards bowed before opening the doors to the Great Hall for them. Robin straightened up and held his head a bit higher as they crossed the threshold. She had noticed the change in her husband since the trial, how the decision he had made that day had affected him to his core. He had always been a leader in her eyes and it was clear he had the love of his people. Yet part of him had hesitated, relying heavily on his council, no doubt due to his own feelings of being unprepared for the role he was thrust into. Now, though, he had more confidence in himself as king and he carried it now.

Regina found it absolutely sexy.

Everyone stood as they entered, all eyes on her and Robin. She also held her head high but gave them a soft smile, hoping it served as an apology for being so late. No one seemed to be glaring at her or whispering as they took their seats, so she took it as a good sign.

Once they sat, everyone else did as well and servants carried out their dinner for that evening. Anastasia reached over and took her hand. "How are you feeling?" she asked.

"Big," Regina replied. "And slower than a turtle."

Lady Eleanor laughed. "I remember those days. I was surprised Ana and Ella came out so tiny since I felt I was carrying a cannonball both times."

Anastasia and Ella scowled at their mother. "You're exaggerating. I doubt you grew so large with either of us," Anastasia said.

"Oh no, she did," Lord Joseph replied with a smile. "Everyone was certain you were both boys from how she was carrying. We were all surprised."

"What does everyone I say I'm having?" Regina asked, curious as to what court gossip was predicting. She rubbed her stomach as she waited for her answer.

Lady Eleanor smiled. "You're the queen. While a woman can inherit the throne, most people still predict a queen's firstborn will be a boy. There's precedent, too. The past four rulers have been kings."

"Perhaps it's time for a queen," Ella said, smiling at Regina and winking at her.

She smiled back, though not as bright. "Perhaps. But I don't think I will be the one to give you her."

Anastasia nodded. "Will said you and Robin were pretty convinced you're having a son. Have you thought of any names yet?"

"Names?" Regina frowned. With everything that had been going on, she and Robin hadn't had a chance to have any substantive conversations about their baby boy. There were many questions they would need to answer, she knew, and above all, they would need to agree on a name—preferably before their son arrived.

Catherine seemed to notice her distress and reached over, taking Regina's hand. She gave her a comforting smile. "Don't worry. You and Robin will figure everything out in good time. No need to rush."

Regina nodded but worried that they didn't have as much time as they needed. She hoped she was wrong.

That night, Tink helped Regina out of her dress and into a new shift for her to sleep in. She then curtsied as Regina dismissed her for the evening, wishing both royals a good night. Once she was gone, Regina left the bedroom to find her husband and have a nice long talk with him, determined to get some answers before she went to sleep that night.

Robin was on the couch, looking over some paperwork as the flames in the fireplace cast a glow over his face. He was wrapped in his green robe and he looked just as ready for bed as her, even though it would be some time until they went to sleep.

"Can we talk?" she asked, tying her own purple robe around her.

He looked up, smiling as he put down the papers. "Of course. Do you want to talk out here or in bed?"

"Out here is fine," she replied, sitting down next to him on the couch. She scooted closer to him. "We might not actually talk if we tried to do it in bed."

"Fair point," he said, laughing as he wrapped his arm around her. He pulled her close as he kissed her head. "I wanted to talk to you as well."

"About the baby?" she asked, wondering if he had been wondering the same things she had been.

He paused before sighing and rubbing the back of his neck. "No, but we do need to figure several things out regarding him. We should probably do that first."

Regina's curiosity was piqued, though, and she shook her head. She could wait to discuss the baby for a few more minutes. "What did you want to talk about?"

"If you wanted to take lessons with Lady Wellingsbury and study Sherwoodian law," he told her with a bright smile.

She sat up, staring at him in surprise. "You think I should study law?"

He nodded, taking her hand in his. "You were wonderful during the trial, Regina. The way you figured out the right question to ask, how you asked it, how you stared down the Abbott. If you want to, you should study the law. I would be honored to let you judge cases alongside me. Maybe even argue law before the council. You would be brilliant."

"You really think so?" Her cheeks felt like they were on fire but she was filled with joy. Robin thought she could learn law and argue it. Even better, she thought she could too.

"Of course I do," he assured her, cupping her cheek. "What do you say? Do you want to learn law?"

She nodded, smiling brightly before hugging him. "I would love to learn. Thank you for suggesting the idea."

He kissed the side of her head. "Only because you put it in my head after your brilliant performance."

"Well, since that's settled," she said, curling back up against him and resting her hand on her stomach. "About the baby…"

"Yes." Robin rested his hand on her bump as well, rubbing it. "Where do you want to begin?"

She bit her lip, uncertain now that she had her husband's attention. All her thoughts jumbled up and she struggled until she seized on one. "Did you have a nurse?"

He shook his head. "Mother took care of me from birth and there were usually enough relatives around to keep me entertained while she handled her queenly duties. Yet I always came first, I know that."

"So she nursed you?" Regina asked. "I know some people are against a queen nursing, though I don't know why."

"I'm afraid I don't either. But yes, I believe Mother nursed me. If you want to nurse our son, I'm all for it." He gave her shoulder a squeeze.

She smiled, images of their child at her breast filling her mind. "I do want to do it and I hope I won't get any resistance from the other ladies of the court."

"Don't let them dictate what you do, Regina. We will do whatever we believe is best for our son," he said. "What's next on your list?"

"A name," she told him. "We need to think of something to call him once he gets here, you know."

"You mean we can't just call him 'Prince' until he's grown?" Robin joked, rubbing her arm.

She rolled her eyes, giving him a little push. "Robin, please, be serious. Naming our child is going to be important."

"I know," he said, kissing the side of her head. "Do you have any ideas?"

"Are there any naming traditions here in Sherwood? Do we have to name him after a former king or some other ancestor?" she asked. She imagined someone from the court presenting her with a long list of approved names that would sound official and wrong for their son, insisting she adhere to Sherwoodian customs.

He shook his head. "Not really. Most name after past kings and queens, but there's no rule about that. I think it was just easier. Pick your favorite royal and there you go, a name."

She bit her lip before asking: "Do you want to name him after your father? I know how much you admired him."

Edward wasn't a bad name, she figured. It was strong and carried good feelings left over from the love of the people for Robin's father. She also figured it would endear the people to him if he bore the name of a Sherwoodian king rather than a foreign name—not that the names in Mist Haven were much different, she knew. It was all about perception in the end.

"I did admire my father and I loved him," Robin replied softly. "But my father hated his name."

"What?" Regina sat up, surprised.

He nodded, laughing. "My father often spoke of how much he hated his name and made me promise to never name any of my children Edward."

"Why didn't he like his name? Edward is a perfectly decent name."

"I think that was it," he said. "It was decent."

She frowned, confused. "I don't get it."

"Edward was a very popular name that year because of a festival celebrating Sherwoodian history. You heard what Tuck said—our great prophet was our very first king, also named Edward. Which made Father the sixteenth King Edward. Nothing about the name seemed to belong to him."

"I understand him," she said.

It was his turn to frown. "What do you mean?"

She shifted closer to him. "Do you know why my mother named me Regina? Because she always wanted me to be queen. That was everything she focused on for me. And it was everything I despised. For a while, I wanted to be called something else and tried to get everyone to call me Mary. Mother shut that down pretty quickly."

"You did become queen," he pointed out.

"I did," she said. "But it's not my entire identity. With you, I'm just Regina. I can be whatever I want and I think that's what your father wanted."

"I don't think I'm following. You have my full permission to talk to me like an idiot if it will help me get it."

Regina shook her head. "That won't be necessary. What I'm saying is that your father hated his name because it represented all the expectations put on him by people who had an ideal associated with it."

"So you're saying we shouldn't name our child after anyone? Let him have his own name?" Robin asked.

"I'm saying that we should try not to put any expectations on our child just because of his name," she replied. "It's no fun when you're trying to find your own identity as a child to have one already chosen for you."

He nodded, understanding in his eyes. "But I think we should knock Edward off the list anyway. I don't want my father to come haunt us."

She laughed and nodded. "We can take Edward off the list, not that we really have one I might add."

"Good point." He grew quiet and she wondered what he was thinking. She waited, though, knowing he would tell her when he was ready.

Robin lifted her hand to his lips, pressing a kiss to it. "How do you feel about putting Henry on that list?"

Her heart skipped a beat and she gave him a soft smile. "You mean it?"

"Why wouldn't I? Your father is a good man and I know how much he means to you. And our son would be the first King Henry in Sherwood history. No legacies there to live up to."

"I guess not," she said, kissing his cheek. "I love it."

"So have we done it? Have we found a name for our son?" he asked.

Her smiled widened and she nodded. "I think we have. Well, we found one name for him. Don't you have five?"

"You have four," he pointed out.

"I do," she replied. "So we're going to have to think of a few more for little Henry."

He nodded. "Do you have any ideas?"

"Robert," she said, cupping his cheek. It hadn't required much thought on her part as she gazed at the man she loved. "I want his second name to be Robert, after his father."

"Henry Robert. Well, we're getting there," Robin said, kissing her. It was a soft, quick kiss and she loved it.

He pulled back, tucking some of her hair behind her ear. "Why don't we put off the rest for another day and go to bed?"

Regina nodded, letting him help her up. She held onto him until she found her center of gravity again, pressing her hand to her bump. "I hope you appreciate everything I put up with for you, Henry Robert," she faux-chided her unborn child.

"I'm certain he does," Robin replied, pressing his hand to her stomach as well. "Now, Prince Henry, it's time for bed. So how about you let your mother get some rest?"

There was a swift kick against her abdomen and Robin's smile grew wider. "He understands."

"He's awake," Regina countered, already knowing she was in for another long night filled with kicking and spinning from her baby.

Some minutes later, she laid curled up in Robin's arms as he drifted off to sleep. The newly dubbed Baby Henry kicked at her a few more times before resting as well. Regina closed her eyes, trying to picture what he would look like. She imagined a young boy with her dark hair and Robin's bright blue eyes running around the parlor, laughing as he played with his father. He then jumped into her arms, hugging her tightly.

It was a pleasant image that eased her into even more pleasant dreams and a peaceful sleep.

"I would've come to you, you didn't have to come to me," Daddy said, hugging Regina as she entered his rooms.

She tried not to roll her eyes as she held him close. "I can still walk, Daddy. I may be slow but I can definitely still walk. And I'm going to do so while I can."

"Well, I'm going to insist you sit," he said, pulling out a nearby chair. He motioned to it. "Please? For my sake?"

Unable to deny her father the request, she sat down. Though she wouldn't admit it, her feet and her back were relieved once the weight was taken off them and she bit back a moan of relief.

Daddy took a seat across from her as Tink brought in their meal. Regina had been grateful that her father hadn't asked any questions when she insisted that only her handmaiden serve them. She didn't think she could look him in the eyes and tell him that someone may try to kill her or Robin. It would only worry him.

"You look well, Regina," Daddy said, sipping at his water. "I am glad that trial business didn't affect you health-wise."

She smiled, taking a bite of her salad. "I bounced back pretty well. I'm stronger than I might look. I'm learning that."

"So is everyone else here in Sherwood, I know," he replied with a proud smile. "Now, how is my future grandchild doing?"

"He's doing well. Right now, I think he's sleeping, which is good. It means he's not kicking me," Regina said, rubbing her stomach. She smiled, her heart speeding up as she continued: "Robin and I have come up with a name for him."

Daddy perked up, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "You have? Does this mean you're willing to share it with your dear old father?"

She nodded, taking a deep breath before saying: "Henry."

The change in her father's face was immediate. He went slack-jawed and his eyes widened as he processed everything. Tears then filled his eyes as he smiled, light and joy emitting from him. "Truly, Regina?"

"Yes," she replied. "We've already started calling him 'Henry' instead of 'the baby.' We have a few more names to pick, but we're certain on Henry Robert."

"So far, it's a very good name. Strong." Daddy's voice hitched and he cleared his throat before sipping his water. Regina waited patiently, tears threatening to spill over from her own eyes.

When Daddy had regained control over his voice, he smiled at Regina. "What about if it's a girl? You and Robin seem certain you are having a son."

She hesitated, her smile falling before she took a sip of her water. Once she swallowed she admitted: "The Dark One told us it's a son. And since he's determined to have either me or my daughter, we believe he's telling the truth."

Daddy nodded, accepting her logic. "Has he been by to bother you lately?"

"No," she replied, feeling her stomach knot up. "And that makes me nervous."

"If you need any help, let me know. I'm not certain what I can do, but I won't let you face him alone," he said, taking her hand and patting it.

Even though she still felt anxious, Regina managed to smile. There were many ways her father had failed her in her life—namely all the times he failed to stop Mother's cruel treatment—but he always made up for it by how much he loved her. And now that Mother was gone, he was also showing more and more of a backbone. Regina was proud of him. "Thank you, Daddy."

Someone knocked on the door and Tink emerged from the shadows, surprising Regina. Then she felt guilty that she had forgotten her friend was in the room as Tink curtsied. "Shall I answer that, Your Majesty?"

"Yes, please," Regina said.

Tink nodded, heading toward the door as the person on the other side knocked again. She opened it and curtsied. "Your Majesty."

"Tink," Robin greeted. "I believe my wife is here?"

Regina laughed, turning around in her chair to give him a smile. "Daddy and I were having lunch."

"I apologize for intruding then," he said, bowing slightly to them as he stepped further into the room.

She glanced over at her father, who was trying not to burst out laughing. Daddy tilted his head toward her husband. "It's alright, Robin. You are always welcome to intrude."

Robin crossed the room, leaning down to kiss Regina before he shook Daddy's hand. Tink closed the door and walked past them. "I'll go fetch you a plate and some food, Your Majesty."

"Thank you," he told her, taking the seat between Regina and Daddy.

She took his hand, squeezing it. "I was just telling Daddy the good news."

"About your lessons?" Robin asked, eyes bright.

"Oh," she said, feeling sheepish that she had forgotten all about those. "No. I meant about our baby's name."

Daddy nodded, puffing out his chest. "I told Regina that it's a very good name. I'm honored, Robin."

"The honor is ours," Robin replied, placing his hand over his heart and bowing in Daddy's direction. "I'm certain within the next five years, every other boy in Sherwood will be named Henry!"

They laughed as Tink placed a plate of food before Robin. She then poured him some wine before retreating into the corner, waiting until she was needed again.

Daddy turned to her, smiling proudly. "Now, what are these lessons Robin was talking about?"

"Oh." She grew even more sheepish and began fiddling with her napkin. "If Lady Wellingsbury agrees, I'm going to study Sherwoodian law under her."

"Regina was brilliant at her trial and I think she could become another expert if given the chance to study the law," Robin explained, covering her hands with one of his. He smiled at her. "Lady Wellingbury agrees and is honored to teach you."

Daddy beamed at her. "Regina, that is very good news. I am so proud of you."

"She wants to know when you want to start your lessons," Robin told her. "It's up to you."

The feeling of being in control of her life made her almost as giddy as thoughts of her future son. She smiled and laced her fingers with Robin's. "I think I would like to start right away. See how much I can get in before little Henry comes."

"Little Henry," Daddy mused, leaning back in his seat. He grinned. "I'm liking the sound of that more and more."

Dearest Regina,

I ordered new books printed up for you to use for your lessons as I doubted you wanted mine. I'm afraid I wasn't very gentle with my books and there are many dog-eared pages, writings in the margins and a few doodles from when my mind wandered. You deserved fresh clean pages for you to leave your own mark.

Which is also why I ordered a blank book for you. Use it as you please—to take notes or to record your innermost thoughts. The choice is yours.

I am proud of you and though he isn't born yet, I'm certain Little Henry is too.

All my love,

Robin

Smiling, Regina folded up the letter and ran her hand over the stack of law books sitting on her desk. A small black book with the Locksley roaring lion emblazoned on it sat next to them and she picked it up, wondering what she was going to do with it. Perhaps she could start keeping a diary again. Mother wasn't around to read it and punish her for her private thoughts anymore, after all.

"I take it someone likes her gifts?" Robin asked, closing the door behind him. He smiled at her.

Regina tried to cross the room to him but her limited mobility meant he had to meet her halfway. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed his nose. "I love them, Robin. Thank you."

"You deserve only the best," he said. "And thankfully, I can afford to give you that."

She tilted her head, studying him. "You know I would love you even if we were poor and living in a shack in the woods, right?"

He laughed before nodding. "I know. And I must admit, that shack in the woods keeps looking better and better."

"What's wrong?" she asked, concerned. She noticed the dark circles under his eyes and how tired he seemed. "I thought the council was easier now that Lords Ellis and Nottingham were no longer part of it?"

"Well, in some ways, yes." Robin guided her to the couch, urging her to sit down. He took a seat next to her. "But it seems all we're doing now is fighting over what should happen to them."

Regina frowned, leaning closer to him. "How so?"

He sighed, standing. "I think I need something to drink before we delve into this. Can I get you anything?"

"A cherry cordial would be nice," she said, watching as he poured himself a glass of whiskey. She worried about the stress this was all placing on him and realized she wouldn't mind living in the shack in the woods either.

"Here you go," he said, handing her her glass.

She took it with a quick smile before running her fingers along his hairline. They brushed the smooth skin of his forehead. "Have you gotten any headaches lately?"

He shook his head, turning his collar over so she could see the satchel of lavender close to his head. "This is still working."

"Good," she replied, watching as he took a sip of his whiskey. "Now, why is everyone on the council fighting?"

"There are two factions. There are those who want to see the Ellises and Lord Nottingham punished under the full extent of the law," Robin replied, looking uncomfortable.

Regina knew what that meant, even without opening one of her new law books. The punishment for treason was the same in every country. "They want you to sign an execution order for them," she said softly.

He nodded, pain filling his eyes at the thought of sending anyone—no matter what they had done—to their death. It made Regina's heart hurt for him, for how it weighed heavy on his pure and loving heart. She leaned forward and kissed his forehead. "What's the other option?" she asked.

"Exile," he replied, "like I did with the Abbott. However, that leaves its own problems."

"They can gather foreign support and try to attack Sherwood, forcing you to go to war to keep your throne."

"Yes." He closed his eyes, leaning his head against the couch as he sighed.

Regina scooted closer to him. "It seems you are caught between a rock and a hard place."

"Perceptive as always, my love. You wouldn't happen to have a solution to get out from between them, would you?"

"I am afraid not," she replied, kissing his forehead. "I'm sorry, love."

He shook his head. "Don't be."

"Well, if you want, I am certain we can figure this out together."

"I'd love to work with you," he replied, opening his eyes as he smiled at her. "Once again, I am so happy I married you."

She leaned forward, kissing him as she rested her hand over his heart. "I'm so happy you married me too."

Regina pulled back, taking his glass of whiskey and setting it on the table next to her empty glass. "Now, I don't want you to worry about it for the rest of the evening. All you're going to do is relax. Got it?"

"Yes, ma'am," he said, smiling. He stood, holding out his hand to her. "Why don't we start with a private supper with our family?"

She took his hand, letting him give her boost up onto her feet. "That sounds wonderful. Shall we tell the rest of the family about Little Henry?"

"I don't think your father will be able to contain himself, do you?" he asked, guiding her toward the door. "We should probably tell them before he explodes from how proud and honored he is."

Laughing, Regina followed him out into the hallway and down toward his mother's rooms for their evening meal.

Darkness shrouded their bedroom, only broken by the soft glow of their fire. Robin laid on his side, facing her, with his hand tucked under his pillow. He snored softly, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. Regina laid on her back but had her head turned toward him, watching him sleep. He looked so peaceful, she hated to disturb him.

Yet as she had laid there, watching him, her mind had started to wander. She imagined him without his nightshirt on, the shadows cast by the fire dancing around his muscles. He would then roll onto his back, letting the blankets slip further down his body to reveal he wasn't wearing his sleep pants either. She could imagine the dark blond curls surrounding his half-erect cock, her hand reaching for it in her imagination…

Regina kicked off the blankets covering her as her nightgown began to stick to her body. She was also panting and there was a familiar pang between her legs. Hiking up her nightgown, she tried to reach there but her extended stomach got in the way, leaving her frustrated.

She blew out in exasperation, writhing on the mattress as she tried to relieve the growing ache. Her body was begging for pleasure and the release of an orgasm. It boiled her blood and made her heart pound. Yet she was denied it.

"Regina?" Robin's sleepy voice asked from beside her. "Is something wrong? Is the babe keeping you up?"

"I wish," she murmured, running her hand over her stomach. For once, their son was calm and sleeping through the night.

Robin frowned, propping himself up on his elbow. "Then what's wrong, lovely?"

The term of endearment sent more fire coursing through her and she could feel how wet she was already when she rolled closer to him. "It's a bit embarrassing to say," she admitted sheepishly.

"No judgments here," he assured her, taking her hand in his.

She guided his hand down under her nightgown and toward where she needed him the most. His eyes widened and his lips twisted into a smirk. "I see. Or rather, I feel."

"I just need…I just need a release," she admitted, leaning closer to him. "And I need your help with that."

"Well, milady, I'm always willing to oblige." His finger brushed her clit and she gasped, the feeling both a relief and torture. Robin chuckled, lips brushing against her ear. "Do you like that?"

She moaned, arching her neck. He obliged her, kissing along it until he found the spot just under her ear. Robin's lips closed on the skin there and sucked there, making her body tremble as his fingers began rubbing her clit harder.

"I think we need to lose the nightgown," he whispered. "How about you?"

"Only if you lose the shirt," she panted. "And the pants."

His fingers fell away from her clit and she whined. Robin nuzzled her hair. "Just for a few moments, lovely. I promise you."

In what seemed the blink of her eyes, Regina's nightgown was gone and so was his nightshirt. She watched him pull off his pants, kicking them away until he was completely naked before her. His cock looked just like it had in her fantasies and she reached out, wrapping her fingers around it. She started stroking it, her thumb playing with his tip.

Robin groaned, kissing her shoulders. "Keep going, lovely. Don't stop."

"I have no plans to do so," she assured him, fondling his balls now. As he groaned, she smirked. "Well, not until you're ready for part two."

"We know you're ready." He nipped at her earlobe, teasing it with his tongue as his fingers once again found her clit.

She hummed in response, leaning into his touch as fire spread throughout her core. "I've had longer to get ready."

Precum started to leak from him and she spread it around with her thumb, nodding. "But I think you've quickly caught up."

"Thank the Great Being," he breathed, placing his free hand on her back. He gently laid her down before urging her legs open more. She obliged him, eager for what was to come.

Robin's fingers fell away and she whined at the loss of friction. He made a soothing hushing noise as he hovered over her. "It's only for a little while, lovely. Then it'll be better than ever."

She tried to wrap her legs around him but found her balance was off. After raising her legs only a few inches off the bed, she fell onto her side with a frown. Regina tried to right herself on her back but it wasn't going to happen, not with her son weighing her down. "Umm, Robin, help?"

"Don't worry, I got you," he said, hands gently turning on her back again. He knelt over her and frowned. "I don't think this is going to work."

"Oh no," she replied, struggling to sit up. "I need this. We are going to make this work."

He nodded, eyes softening. "We will, lovely. In fact, I have an idea. Let's get you up and we'll head into the parlor."

"Parlor?" she asked, confused as he helped her sit up. She swung her legs over the side of the bed and waited for Robin to stand before her. He helped her up and wrapped his arm around her.

"Yes," he replied, supporting her on their way to the parlor. "You'll see what I have in mind in a few moments."

She waddled next to him, her juices coating her inner things with every movement. Even though she was still aroused, she wished she was able to reach her clit in order to keep up the friction against it. It would be a waste for all of Robin's hard work to go away.

Robin stopped in front of his favorite arm chair, sitting down in it with his feet planted apart on the floor. "Straddle me," he instructed.

"Are you certain?" she asked, looking a bit uncertain about how this would work.

He nodded, holding out his arms to her. "I promise I won't let anything happen to you."

Knowing he meant it, she straddled him like he asked. She sank over his cock, letting him fill her. Letting out a sigh, she pressed her forehead to his. Everything felt right. "This isn't too bad."

"Just wait," he said, placing his hands beneath her knees. He pulled on her legs until they were dangling over the armrests.

Regina gasped as Robin filled her more, the angle brushing against her spot. She grasped his shoulders as her eyes closed, feeling the fire coursing through her veins now. "Ooh, I'm sorry I ever doubted you."

"You're forgiven," he said, kissing her. She began grinding against him, driving his cock against her clit and deep inside her over and over. Regina began to burn as she kept kissing Robin over and over.

He moved from her lips to her neck, lips once again finding the spot below her ear as one of his hands massaged her breast. She moaned as his thumb toyed with her nipple, hastening her coming climax. Regina's back arched as his other hand supported her, allowing her to keep riding him hard and fast.

She was extremely hot now, feeling the sweat coating her skin. A sheen covered his as well and she slid a little with each new thrust. Robin held onto her, though, and released her breast to brush her damp hair from her shoulders. "Gods, Regina," he breathed into her skin, pressing a kiss there.

Her fingers dug into his slick hair, gently tugging on it as she tried to get even closer to him. She knew her rhythm was erratic, could feel her body tremble in anticipation. Her release was so close and it was clear that Robin was going to follow her over in the abyss. Tugging on his hair, she lifted his head to look him in the eyes. "Touch me," she moaned.

"Regina…"

"Please, Robin," she pleaded.

He nodded, slipping his hand between their bodies. She felt his thumb press against her clit and she bucked with a little shout. "Like that."

"As you wish." He kissed her as his thumb kept rubbing her clit, bringing her closer and closer to her release.

Regina's head fell back and her toes curled as she came with a long moan. He supported her, waiting until she could brace herself again. With a few more thrusts, he came inside her with a groan that almost sounded like her name. He laid his head on her shoulder and she peppered his hair with kisses. They sat there, panting together as their bodies started to cool.

Her mind clear now that she wasn't yearning for a release, she grew a bit sheepish. "I'm sorry I woke you. I just couldn't do that on my own."

"Don't apologize," he said, lifting his head to smile at her. "I'm always willing to help you, even if it's not for something as enjoyable as that."

She chuckled before yawning, bringing a hand to cover her mouth. "Sorry. I guess you wore me out."

"I'm certain I did," he said, sounding smug. "Let me help you up and we can go back to bed."

They untangled themselves and left the chair behind, Robin's hand on her back as she waddled into their bedroom. He helped her into bed before climbing in next to her, curling around her. Lying his hand on her stomach, he yawned as well. "Good night, Regina. And Little Henry."

In response, the baby kicked against her stomach and Robin smiled. "I love it when he says goodnight to me."

She scowled. "Only because you're not the one he's kicking all night long while you're trying to sleep."

"Little Henry is going to be a good boy and let you sleep tonight," he replied as Henry gave another kick to Regina's stomach. "See? He's agreeing."

She hummed, her eyes closing as she felt sleep tug at her. "We'll see. Good night, Robin."

He wrapped his arm around her, cuddling closer to her. She turned to face him and with a sigh, fell asleep.

Regina waddled out of the bathroom, towel wrapped around her wet body. She rubbed her hair with another one, trying to keep her ringlets from dripping as her hair curled around her shoulders. Unable to sit on the bed without help, she settled for sitting on the chest at the foot of their bed as she waited for Robin.

He stepped out of the bathroom a few seconds later, his towel wrapped around his waist. She watched a few beads of water roll down his chest, running along his muscles until they disappeared below his towel. Regina licked her lips, feeling the familiar fire from the night before reigniting deep inside her.

Robin tilted his head, smiling at her. "You look like you want to eat me."

"I want to do something else to you," she admitted, motioning for him to come closer. He sat down next to her on the chest and she kissed him.

He nibbled on her lip and she opened for him, moaning as his tongue swept her mouth. She gripped his arms, running her hands over his muscles as she braced herself. Robin placed a hand on her back, supporting her, and wound the fingers of the other hand in her curls. They exchanged hot, passionate kisses and she was certain they were going to need another bath very soon.

"ROBIN!" The door to their chambers sounded like it was thrown against the wall as Will's voice pierced even their very solid and very closed bedroom door. "Good gods, man, where are you?"

Groaning, Robin pulled away. He held up a finger. "Give me a minute to kill my best friend, lovely, and then we'll pick up right there."

"Go easy on Will," she said, laughing. "I don't want Ana coming to kill you."

"Point taken," Robin replied, putting on his robe. As he tied it shut, he opened the door and stepped into the parlor. He left the door slightly ajar and Regina scooted closer on the chest to hear what the two friends were discussing in the other room.

"What the hell, Scarlet? This had better be important," Robin said.

Will breathed out in relief before asking: "Why aren't you dressed yet?"

"I was spending some time with my wife. I would like to go back to doing that. Is that a problem?"

"Yes," Will said. "You need to dress now. The council is waiting for you."

Regina frowned and imagined her husband was doing the same as he asked: "What's wrong, Will? Please, tell me."

"Lord and Lady Ellis are no longer in the palace. The night watch reported a carriage leaving late last night but they thought nothing of it. We believe the Ellises snuck out in it," Will said.

"Shit," Robin said angrily. "Have we sent anyone to their manor? Or to the harbor?"

"Yes, your uncle Joseph already gave those orders. We checked and Lord Nottingham is still in the tower."

Relief swept through Regina and she heard Robin say: "Thank the Great Being for small favors."

"Aye," Will said. "The council is waiting for you so you can discuss the situation and next steps."

With a strong push, Regina got to her feet and toddled over to the long golden rope that stayed in the shadows in a corner of her room. She gave it a good tug, knowing somewhere a bell was ringing. It would send Tink running and Regina wanted to be ready for her. Time was of the essence.

She opened her wardrobe and examined each dress inside to find the right one. Regina heard Robin enter the room and she could feel his frown. "What are you doing, lovely?"

"Getting dressed," she replied without looking at him. "What color do you think would look best? I'm leaning toward red."

"For what?"

"For meeting with the council." She pulled down the red velvet gown with pearls sewn into the bodice and nodded. "Yes, this is the one."

She turned around and saw Robin cross his arms. "You don't have to come to the council meeting."

"Of course I do. In case you forgot, I'm the one the Ellises tried to frame for witchcraft. Who knows what they're plotting next and my gut tells me that it will involve me. I think Nottingham wants the throne while the Ellises just want me gone. Do they have a daughter I haven't met?" she asked, her mind racing with theories as to what the Ellises' goal was in the end.

Robin shook his head. "They have a young son they leave at their manor house with a nanny and a tutor. Mother and Father never approved of that but it's not like they could dictate how members of their court parent."

"Understandable. Though there goes the theory that they want to replace me with their own daughter," Regina mused. She then pointed to the chest. "Can you get me a fresh shift, please? I can at least get that on before Tink gets here."

He did as she asked, handing her the garment with a resigned sigh. "There's no stopping you, is there?"

She shook her head, beaming as she patted his cheek. "I'm glad you've come around."

"Well, as much as I would rather you stay here and rest, you do make a good point," he conceded. "So let's get dressed and go figure out what to do next."

Regina leaned closer, kissing him. She was not going to sit back and just play the victim. Instead, she was going to sit by Robin's side and ensure the Ellises receive the punishment they deserve. As she rubbed her stomach, she felt a little kick from inside her. It brought a smile to her face, knowing her son agreed.

The Ellises had messed with the wrong family.

A/N: Uh oh. The Ellises are on the loose and who knows what they have up their sleeve? And will Rumple make a comeback soon? Regina's life is definitely getting more complicated at a time she should be keeping calm.

We also now have a name for Robin and Regina's baby! I had debated a while about whether or not I wanted to go with Roland or Henry first. For some time, it was almost Roland.

Now, a word about "The Dark Legacy." I'm sure many readers have noted that it's been a long time since I updated it (almost two months) and are wondering what's going on. I posted a statement to my tumblr last week about it and then tweeted it out but I want to address it here for those who don't follow me on either platform.

I have placed "The Dark Legacy" on hiatus as I plan to rewrite it completely. For some time, I haven't been really happy with it and I feel it could be so much better. So I'm going to start over and make sure the story really lives up to its potential. You, my readers, deserve my best and I'm determined to give it to you.

Right now, I don't know when I'll be posting it again but I will let you know as soon as I have a better idea.

Thank you for your understanding and your support.

-Mac