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Odette wakes in her little house above the bakery from a dream of gentle hands on her cheeks and a soft lilac glow. In some ways, when she looks around her room, it’s like she’s never been away, like today is the same as any other day in the village. Well, she supposes it is like any other day. No curse, no Rothbart, no magical forest friends by her side. And yet, it is different somehow. She is different.

She is not engaged. That’s not different. She’s spent days replaying the events of her time in the Enchanted Forest over and over again in her head. Daniel had said he loved her. She suspects he wasn’t lying about that, or at least he believes he wasn’t lying. She’d wanted their plan to work, desperately so. She gave it her all and deep down she knew it wasn’t going to work. 

And yet, it did work. She’s free. 

The confusing thing is that there’s only one thing she knows for certain. She does not love Daniel. The curse is broken. And he is not her true love.

She thinks again of the events of just a few days ago and of all the things that led up to it, and she’s entirely overcome by a lavender haze. She thinks of soft hands and magic spells and dance lessons. Of words of affection and the fierce need to protect. Of self sacrifice and a broken curse. 

She has no idea where her feet are leading her until she reaches the edge of the Enchanted Forest. She has no plan, only knows she needs answers.

To her surprise, the forest opens up to her the moment she crosses the river. It must be the crystal, which she’s held onto every moment, even since arriving home. And it’s funny, because arriving home is exactly what this feels like. 

She follows the path through the cave until she’s greeted by vast greenery and shimmering waters. Relief floods over her at how right it feels to be back here. The only thing even close to fear that she feels now is due to the butterflies in her stomach threatening to fly right out of her.

Her relief continues when she sees a faint purple glow emerge from the trees ahead.

“Odette?” The Fairy Queen, Teresa, calls, concern flooding her tone when she asks, “What is it? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong.” Odette assures her. The Queen looks exhausted, her magic still replenishing itself after being taken away from her completely when she’d been turned into a mouse just mere days ago. Odette wants to rush to her, to ask her again why she would sacrifice herself like that. How could she be so selfless? So reckless? She feels furious and overcome with a different, softer sort of emotion at the same time. Instead she settles on, “I wanted to see you.”

“Oh.” Teresa visibly relaxes a little, but not completely. “You’re sure?”

“I am.” Odette feels a blush creeping up her neck at the realisation that even with no danger present, the Fairy Queen’s need to protect her has not wavered.

“What brings you back to us?” She asks, a new calmness in her voice.

“I– I…” Odette stutters. Where to begin? She hadn’t even meant to come here today. Though part of her does believe she planned on coming back ever since the moment she left. “Well… May I speak with you? Alone?” Without the prying eyes of elves and fairies she means. Or worse, Lila. If she knew what Odette was about to say, who knows how she’d react? 

A small smile appears on the other woman’s lips. “Of course.”

Not far from Swan Lake, behind a great willow tree whose branches appear to be alive with tiny orbs of magic, is what looks to be just another hidden cave. Inside it, however, is not a cave at all, but a home. 

It’s much larger on the inside than it looks from the outside, with a much wider floor span than what seems physically possible and multiple floors heading up and up towards the ceiling. The wall is made up of fresh green moss and shimmering, exposed crystal and there’s a waterfall right at the centre, flowing down into a clear blue pool. Much of the furniture looks as though it is made of flowers, enlarged and enchanted to be fit for purpose. There’s a peony table and a lavender sofa with chrysanthemum cushions. Teacups that look like bluebells and sconces that resemble lilies.

Teresa invites her to sit down, summoning tea for them both and Odette still doesn’t know where to begin. She holds tight to her cup, which has the velvety softness of real petals and feels like it shouldn’t hold such a hot substance.

Teresa tells her to take her time and they sit in silence for a short while, until Odette finally asks, “Was it you?”

“I’m afraid I don’t know what you mean.” The Queen replies, a touch of concern once again present on her face.

Odette tries again. A different approach perhaps. “I’m not in love with Daniel.” She says, hoping Teresa might understand, and Odette thinks she might because the Queen’s breath hitches at her words. “I tried to be. But I’m not. And so… It’s not true love. He couldn’t have been the one to break the curse, could he?”

“No.” Teresa says, barely louder than a whisper. “No, in that case he couldn’t have.”

“But the curse is broken.”

“Yes.” She says, sounding sure of herself, almost like she’s answering a different question.

“Y- yes?”“I believe it was me. That’s what you’re asking, isn’t it?”

“Yes.” And now it’s Odette’s turn to barely speak louder than a whisper.

So she had not been imagaining. All the glances and the gentle touches. She’d suspected, even hoped that they all meant something, but never truly let herself believe it.

“I sensed it the moment you arrived in the forest with Lila that day. I knew she wasn’t alone. The feeling I had it was… So familiar, yet unfamiliar at the same time. It was different, but I welcomed it. Perhaps my magic knew before I did who you were and what that meant. I can’t be sure, I just know that when I saw you pull the crystal from the tree, I…” She smiles, but it swiftly fades as she looks down into her cup. “I knew you had the power to save us. But I also knew that I would destroy anything that tried to harm you in the process. I… Suppose I failed you there.”

“Failed me? But you did destroy the curse.”

“I should have done more to prevent it in the first place. I should have never let you return the crystal. Even if it meant you leaving with it and never returning to us. I should have… I–”

Odette places a gentle, shaking hand on Teresa’s chin, bringing their eyes together once more.

“That curse was worth it for every moment I got to spend with you. It was worth it to break it with you. You sacrificed yourself to save me. You challenged Rothbart when you knew your powers were fading. How could you ever do more than that?”

There’s a pleading look in her eyes and her smile returns, as she says, “I didn’t know for sure. I wanted it to be me who broke it, but it was hard to tell. Part of me believed you’d left for the royal palace and would never return to us.”

“Well I’m here.” Odette tells her, eyes gleaming with hope, as her hand makes its way to her rest upon the Queen’s cheek.

“Yes.” She breathes, placing her hand atop Odette’s. “You are.”

“And I’d like to stay, if you’ll have me.”

Teresa squeezes her hand. “It’s been so long.” She says, her voice sounding so small. “So long since I’ve had… Anyone to… Of course, I care dearly for the elves and for Lila, but I…”

“You don’t have to be alone to feel lonely.” Odette says, feeling her heart break for the woman before her.

Teresa sighs like it’s the first time she’s allowed herself to breathe since Odette’s arrival. “I’m not lonely anymore.”

A warm smile makes its way to Odette’s lips and she feels like she can’t stand it any longer or her heart may burst from her chest. “May I kiss you?” She asks.

The Fairy Queen lets out a small chuckle at the sweetness of her question. She gives a slight nod. “You may.”

Odette lets her hand slide down Teresa’s cheek until she’s cupping her jaw, leaning towards her, and their lips soon meet in a gentle kiss.

The older woman lets out what can only be described as a whimper, as she deepens the kiss for just a moment, before breaking it and brushing her nose up against Odette’s, whispering, “I love you.”

Hearing the words almost brings Odette to tears, but instead of letting them fall, she brings their lips together once more before saying, “And I love you.”

Teresa pulls her close so her head rests on her chest, holding her in a gentle embrace.

Odette thinks she could stay like this forever, so it physically pains her to say, “I have to go.” She sits back up and immediately sees the worry that crosses the Queen’s face. “I told my father I wouldn’t be gone long. I’ll talk to him and I’ll come back tomorrow.”

Teresa nods in understanding, but a trace of worry still presents itself between her brows. “The elves.” She says. “What shall I tell them?”

Odette thinks for a moment and then assures her, “We’ll do it together. We’ll do all of this together from now on.” She takes her hands, squeezing softly.

Teresa smiles, the glow of her magic shining bright as ever as she repeats, “Together.”

-

When Odette returns the next day, as promised, she’s greeted by all the familiar faces she’s come to love. All of whom are curious to know what brings her back to the forest so soon.

“You just couldn’t stay away from us any longer, is that it?” Lila asks, brazenly. 

“Well, it’s… Something like that.” She responds.

“Oh, oh! You want help planning the wedding!” Ivan suggests, his hands clasped together as he rests his cheek upon them, a dreamy look on his face.

“No exactly, I–”

“You’re back for more dance lessons?” Asks Carlita. “Say no more, I am at your service.”

“I’m actually–”

“Odette.” Comes a warm, whimsical voice.

A warmth spreads over her at the sound, but then she’s faced with the realisation that she’s not sure how to address Teresa in front of the others.

She settles on, “Your Highness.” And Teresa gives her a knowing smile.

Neither of them quite know what to say next. They’d both hoped they might get another moment alone before being faced with the others.

Lila looks between them with increasingly suspicious eyes.

“...Is everything okay?” She asks.

“Of course.” Odette answers, perhaps a little too quickly. “I wanted to see you all.” 

“I knew it.”

“And actually there is something I wanted to tell you.”

“Daniel cannot choose a best man, so you came to ask me to do the job?” Ivan asks.

“Um. No.” Ivan drops his head in disappointment. “But it is about the wedding.” Everyone perks up at that, eagerly anticipating her next words. So she feels a little unnerved when she says, “That is. There isn’t going to be a wedding.”

“What?!” They each gasp in unison.

“It cannot be!” Carlita cries, as Ivan literally cries.

“It’s okay!” Odette tries to reassure them. “Really! Daniel, he… He…” She cannot say the next part without having to explain everything. But would that be okay? Surely they will have to find out sooner or later. More importantly, Odette wants them to find out. She looks to the Queen, who smiles at her, before giving a small nod. She takes a deep breath. “He isn’t my true love.”

More gasps, as many voices begin to ask questions and exclaim their confusion.

Lila shushes them all before asking, “What do you mean?”

“Daniel isn’t my true love. We won’t be getting married.”

“But– But the curse!” She exclaims, shaking her head. “If he’s not your true love then–”

“Somebody else is.” Teresa interjects, floating towards Odette. Lila looks as though she’s about to object further, until she sees the Queen slowly take Odette’s hand in her own.

Surprisingly, only silence follows, as eyes widen and cogs begin to turn.

“Your sacrifice.” Lila says eventually, more of a statement than a question. “You broke the curse.”

“She did.” Odette confirms, squeezing the hand that grasps so firmly to hers.

Their wide eyes and shocked expressions slowly turn into expressions of content and understanding. And it’s more than the two women could’ve hoped for.

“Of course.” Carlita says. 

“This is fantastic!” Ivan adds. “Now you will stay here with us?”

“Well…” Odette begins, all eyes on the two of them for an answer to something that really should be discussed further first. Then again, what is the alternative?” “Yes.” She says.

At that, Teresa squeezes her hand again, inhaling sharply before releasing her breath and smiling brightly.

“Wait, for real?” Lila asks, seeing their unwavering, sincere expressions. Odette briefly worries that she’s upset, until she bucks her legs in the air. “Yes!”

Odette covers a giggle with her free hand, taking in the looks of pure joy and excitement. 

Her new life begins.

-

Though also reluctant herself, Lila manages to encourage the others to give Odette and Teresa the time alone they’d hoped for before making their little announcement and they find themselves strolling through the forest with no particular destination in mind, but there’s something about the way Teresa decides to walk next to her, both feel on the ground, as their arms brush together, that makes Odette blush.

Then, after a little while of peaceful silence, the Queen says, “Thank you.”

Odette looks at her curiously. “Thank me? For what?”

“For earlier. For saying what you did.”

“I didn’t say much.” She points out.

“No. But regardless, it’s a weight off my shoulders. It went better than I could’ve hoped, so I do thank you.” Odette smiles, looking down at the floor as her butterflies return. “Did you mean it? About staying with us?”

“Of course! Unless– Do you want me to stay?”

She stops, turning to face Odette and taking both of her hands. “I’d like for nothing more.”

“So, it’s settled then.” Odette says, gently stroking her thumbs across her skin.

“And your father? He’s alright with it?”

“He wants me to be happy.” She gives a light shrug. “He expected me to move into the palace soon anyway, at least here it’s closer to home.” She giggles.

“So, this is it then?” Teresa asks, lifting her fingers to Odette’s chin.

Odette feels as though she’s in a dream, looking into this woman’s eyes. This woman who loves her. Who wants to share her life with her. It all seems so impossible. And yet, she hears herself saying the words, “This is it.” Before allowing Teresa to close the space between them.

They soon reach a clearing in the trees that opens up to a meadow of wildflowers and spend their time alternating between sitting and lying down, holding hands and picking petals, speaking and not speaking. The sky looks gorgeous and crystal clear as they stare up at it, not a cloud to be seen, just soft blue as vast as their futures just became.

They’re in a moment of not speaking when Odette breaks the silence, her fingers lightly tapping against the other woman’s as they lie next to each other. “How long have you ruled over the Enchanted Forest?”

“Almost twenty-three years.” Teresa replies.

“And you never had anyone else? For all of that time? No friends?”

“There have been visitors from time to time. People who tried to free the crystal. People seeking help and healing. But no, no one who stayed.”

“All that time…”

“Waiting for you.”

“I’m sorry it took so long.”

Teresa lets out a small laugh. “I’m not.” She brings Odette’s hand to her mouth, lightly brushing her lips against her fingers. “It is all exactly as it should be.” 

Odette’s heart flutters in her chest.

“You said something was different when I first entered the forest. You felt different. Did you know then that it would all lead to this?” She asks, curious.

“No.” Teresa says, shyly. “I told you that I sensed something about you, but that I wasn’t sure what it meant at the time and… Well, that’s not entirely true. Rather, I think I tried to talk myself out of what I knew it meant. I sensed that you weren’t a threat to us, but it was more than that. I sensed your gentleness, your kindness and beauty in all senses of the word. I haven’t been the same since that day. And all because of you.” Odette’s breath catches at her words. “I knew that I loved you. But not that you would love me back.”

“How could I not?” Odette asks, almost hysterically, as she tries to take in all that she’s just been told. “How could anyone not?”

The Queen smiles at that, her heart bursting.

“You said you tried to love Daniel. When exactly did you realise that that would not be possible?” 

“Let’s see. That night, after the curse was broken was when I truly questioned it all. I was exhausted and yet I couldn’t sleep trying to figure it all out. I knew it didn’t make sense that it could be him. When I tried to rationalise how it had really happened, everything led me back to you.” She rests her head on Teresa’s chest, wrapping an arm across her waist. “That’s not the full story though.”

“It isn’t?”

“If I’m being completely honest, it was the evening we danced together that I knew my feelings for you were true. I was supposed to be miserable. And you made me feel so light and giddy and you looked so beautiful. You took my breath away.”

Teresa holds her closer. “Oh, my darling.”

The meadow becomes their place to escape most days. Their place to get to know each other. To learn everything there is to learn. Odette talks of the bakery, of her sister and how much she would love it here. They decide that she must come and visit soon. She talks of her childhood and her father. Of her mother and the memories she has of her.

Teresa talks of life before she became queen. Her friendship with Rothbart, before it all went so terribly wrong. She talks of her uncle and how fond of him she was. She reveals how he used to call her Tessa and how it’s been such a long time since she’s heard that name spoken aloud, even by herself. Odette thinks it’s lovely.

Day by day, they learn each other’s favourite things, their secrets and dreams. Odette learns of the healing that Teresa spoke of on their first visit here. The brief visitors she’s encountered seeking balms and salves and medicines laced with magical properties for themselves or their family. She promises to teach Odette how to make them and forage for the correct ingredients. And every day, Odette’s heart soars higher and higher.

-

Their first night together, Teresa had opened her arms to Odette, invited her in and held her close and there are no words to describe how right it had felt, as it has every night since. They trace patterns on each other’s skin, sleep peacefully, the rhythm of their hearts perfectly in sync and they wake up with their legs entangled. They dream of each other, of everything exactly the way it is.

That is, until this morning. Because this morning Odette wakes up rather breathless, her chest flushed and feeling a strange sort of throbbing somewhere underneath the sheets. This dream was different. This dream had been of Tessa’s mouth on her lips, on her shoulders, the tops of her breasts and down and down and down.

She brings her fingers to her lips, tracing what feels like a memory. It isn’t exactly the first time she’s thought about it, but it is the first time she’s felt this kind of untamable hunger for it. She’s never felt the need to rush things. And maybe this isn’t rushing. She was always going to feel this way.

“Everything alright?” Tessa asks, and when Odette turns to face her, she can see that her cheeks are a little flushed too.

“Yes.” Odette gulps. “Are… You okay?”

Teresa gives her an inquisitive look, tilting her head to the side when she asks, “What did you dream of? You seemed… Unsettled.”

Odette’s eyes grow wider and she can feel the temperature rising in her cheeks as she stutters, “I– I–”

“Only,” Teresa interrupts. “I believe there’s a chance I may’ve dreamt something similar.”

“You- You did?”

The truth is, she did not. Not today anyway. The burning in her own cheeks began when Odette began stirring in her sleep. Noisily stirring. But the last thing she wants her to feel is shame or embarrassment. 

Tessa gently runs her hand up Odette’s throat, stopping to hold her chin in a soft grip. She brings their mouths together and Odette kisses her desperately. 

“Oh, my dear.” She breaths against her lips, making Odette gasp as she trails kisses along her jaw and up behind her ear.

Odette’s fingers find the ribbon that forms a bow at the neck of Teresa’s nightdress, carefully pulling it free. She places her hand on the newly exposed skin of her clavicle, sending a shudder through the older woman’s body that makes Odette want to explore more. She could just move her hand down a little– 

But Teresa’s hand finds hers first, stopping her from going any further. Odette looks at her, searching her face for signs that she’s done something wrong. That this isn’t what she wants. Instead all she sees is the fire in her own eyes reflecting right back at her.

“I’m sorry.” Teresa says, brushing their noses together, before resting her forehead on Odette’s. “I couldn’t stop myself.”

“I’m glad.” Odette says, without hesitation. 

“But it was selfish.”

“Selfish?” Odette echoes, sounding far more confused. “I want this. I want you.”

“I want the same. But we deserve to have more time than we’ve currently got.” She tells her, raising her eyebrows in hope that Odette remembers. Evidently she does not. “Your sister is arriving soon.”

Odette releases the breath she’d been holding, laughing a little as she does, out of relief more than anything. “Of course.” She gives a slight eye roll, before focusing again on the Queen’s lips. “I was afraid for a moment.” She tells her, looking back up into her eyes. “For a second I thought you might not want…”

She feels Tessa’s palm, flat against her stomach, edging ever so slightly towards her sternum. “You’re what I want.” She swallows thickly. “When the time is right.”

-

Odette makes the walk through the cave behind the waterfall and when it opens at her presence, Marie is already waiting on the other side.

Her sister’s eyes light up when she sees her, a joyous laugh escaping her lips as she pulls Odette into a tight embrace.

“Oh, I’ve missed you.” She says softly.

Odette giggles, surprised to realise that the nerves she’d been feeling the whole way here seem to have dissolved completely, replaced with a new found giddiness at the thought of welcoming her sister to her new home.

“I’ve missed you too. I’m so glad you’re here.” And she truly means it, any worries she might’ve had about her sister not understanding vanished.

“So am I. How are you?”

“I’m wonderful. What about you? Tell me everything. What have I missed whilst I’ve been gone?”

“Oh, please, like there’s anything to be missing out on when you live here. I can’t wait to meet everyone. I can’t wait to meet her.” Marie says, eyeing Odette and smirking. “The Queen.”

Odette’s cheeks flush. “Her name is Teresa.”

“I know, but I can’t call her that, right? Surely that name is reserved for family and lovers.” Odette rolls her eyes. “I mean, you’re practically a princess now!”

“And that’s why I’m sure she won’t mind what you address her as.”

“Well, I’m not taking any chances.”

Odette sighs playfully, threading her arm through Marie’s and leading her through the forest.

Everyone has made an effort for Marie’s arrival and it makes Odette’s heart want to burst at how they’ve accepted her here and now accept her family too. The elves have baked an array of treats, their heavenly scents wafting through the trees before the two sisters can even see them, and the forest is decorated just for the occasion.

“Oh my.” Marie murmurs, taking in her surroundings as they arrive. The trees twinkle with what appear to be fireflies, but at this time of day, Odette suspects it’s actually some kind of glowing enchantment, and the lake sparkles the way it always does, only now lanterns that look like flowers float on the surface. There are cushions laid out around a large tree stump, often used as a table, now covered with cakes and cookies and all kinds of other baked goods.

“Welcome to the Enchanted Forest.” Lila greets them eagerly as they arrive.

Marie’s eyes widen at the greeting. “You– you can talk?”

“I probably should’ve mentioned that.” Odette confesses, as Lila glares at her,  feeling a sense of deja vu.

“Well, I suppose that makes sense.” Marie says, trying not to seem too uneasy about it. “This is the Enchanted Forest after all.”

“Lila is the one who led me here that day. To the crystal.” Odette tells her.

“Ohhh. So you’re the reason my sister left home to come live in a forest.” Lila chuckles nervously, but then, “Thank you.”

“Oh.” Lila blinks, like that’s the last thing she expected to hear. “You’re welcome. I think.”

Marie laughs and Odette merely hopes she won’t be blushing for the entirety of her sister’s visit. So far, it’s not looking great.

She introduces the elves next, as they appear one by one carrying enough food to feed the village. Then, out from a clearing in the trees comes Teresa, carrying a tray of freshly baked apple muffins. Marie’s favourite. 

“I’m sorry I’m late.” She says, placing her tray down and immediately moving towards Odette’s sister. “Marie, I’m so pleased to meet you.”

Marie stands there stunned for a moment, until she manages to say, “The pleasure is all mine, Your Highness.”

“I hope you can feel at home here. Please, help yourself to anything you’d like.”

“That’s so kind, thank you.”

Everyone gathers around to eat and the elves have no problem making Marie feel like she belongs here. Ivan tells the story of how he almost burnt his eyebrows off this morning whilst making the cinnamon sugar cookies that Odette and Marie are biting into.

“They don’t taste burnt to me.” Marie offers.

“No. No, that’s the second batch.” He says, looking down at his hands in his lap. Everyone tries to stifle their laughs but it doesn’t work and Ivan soon laughs along with them.

Afterwards, the elves play music and dance, encouraging the two sisters to join in, not that Marie ever needs much encouragement when it comes to dancing, but to her surprise neither does Odette.

Marie takes Odette’s hand and they begin a joyous jig to the quick tune. They hop and skip and laugh merrily, threading their arms through each other’s and quickly switching sides and Odette wonders why she was ever so afraid to accompany her sister to the village dances. Her father was right, she is having fun.

Ivan appears between them, cutting in to dance with Marie, so Odette turns to sit down and comes face to face with Teresa.

“May I?” She asks, raising her palm until it’s level with her face. 

“You may.” Odette answers, bringing her hand up to meet Teresa’s until their palms face each other in the air.

It’s different to the first time they danced together, if a tad less elegant. They spin one way and then the other, laughing together, unafraid of the eyes on them, and there are many. Odette suspects it must be a surprise for the others, to see their Queen so light and carefree in this way. Odette agrees, getting lost in her thoughts about their time together and how happy it has been. It’s at that moment that she trips over her own feet, bracing herself for impact, when Teresa’s hand grabs her by the waist, guiding her back to her feet until their noses are inches apart. Odette catches her breath and then bursts out laughing.

Marie and Lila share a brief, knowing look at one another before returning their gaze to the couple in front of them.“The first day we met Odette, she wasn’t going to stay, did she tell you that?” Lila says in a low voice, so as not to be heard by anyone else. Marie shakes her head. “She told us she was nothing special.”

Marie sighs. “That sounds like Odette.”

“But when I saw the way Queen Teresa looked at her, similar to the way she is now, I knew something was different this time. What I mean to say is, the Queen always knew she was special.”

“Thank goodness for that. I’ve never seen my sister so… Free.”

“Yeah, I’m not saying I’m happy she got cursed but…” Marie laughs. “They look good together, don’t they?”

“Utterly breathtaking.”

-

Later in the afternoon, Marie insists on helping clear away their teacups and plates and despite objections from everyone else, Odette decides its best not to fight her on it. 

Only she soon wishes she had, because there’s a particularly large tree root growing in a particularly inconvenient spot on the path and Marie doesn’t see it for the stack of plates in her arms. 

Odette audibly gasps when Marie and the plates go flying, immediately rushing towards her, but Teresa, with help from her magic, beats her to it. She then uses magic to gather up all the small broken plate pieces, pushing them aside in lightning spread, as she asks Marie if she’s okay, concern flooding her face.

“I’m fine, really. I’m so sorry, let me help clean this u–”

“Nevermind that.” Teresa says, almost sternly. “You’re bleeding.”

“That does not look good.” Lila says, wincing at the sizable gash on Marie’s leg.

“Odette, fetch the salve from o– our kitchen, would you?”

“Of course.” She hurries for the salve, trying not to dwell too much on the words ‘our kitchen’ because this really is not the time to allow her heart to swell and burst. When she returns, she sees Marie and Tessa smiling. About what she has no idea, but it certainly helps her heart rate return to normal. 

Teresa applies the salve to the gash and the effect is almost instant. The bleeding stops. Her wound closes up. All that’s left is a small, scabbed over cut.

Marie stares down at her leg, mouth agape. “How did– ? There was so much blood–”

“Yes, the salve is most effective on scrapes and cuts.” Teresa says, admiring the work of her homemade creation.

“Scrapes?!” Marie echoes, half laughing at the understatement.

“I admit, it worked marvellously. It might be my strongest batch yet.”

“I wish we could get something like this down in the village. It could help so many people.” Marie says, staring, mesmerised at the small jar in Teresa’s hand.

“Then you must take it.”

Marie looks taken aback by her words. “But don’t you need it?”

“I will make more. Take it. Please.”

And then Marie’s face softens, not for the first time today.

“So, is falling just, like, a sister thing or…?” Lila interjects, now that any serious injury has been avoided.

Tessa stares at her, a look she’s given the unicorn a thousand times before, until eventually she joins the others in their soft laughter.

-

When Odette accompanies Marie on her journey out of the forest, her leg doesn’t slow them down even a little bit. Odette is used to magic by now, but even she is in awe of the salve. And despite not everything going exactly as she had planned today, she still couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day.

“This place is amazing.” Marie says.

“I know.” Odette replies, suddenly feeling a little shy at what she’s about to confess. “I was so nervous this morning.”

“Nervous of what?” Her sister asks. And when Odette simply gives her an abashed sort of look, she says, “Because of me? You’re kidding.”

“No…”

“But why?”

“I’m not sure entirely. I… I didn’t want you to be disappointed.”

“Disappointed in what?” 

“In me? This isn’t exactly what anyone expected of me.” Odette says, looking down at her shoes.

“No.” Marie agrees. “But it’s more than I ever could’ve dreamed of for you.”

“It is?”

“All I’ve ever wanted is for you to find happiness, Odette. But this?” She gestures at the forest around them. “You’ve found a home with someone you love. Someone who loves you more than anything, that much is clear. That’s more than any sister could want. I’m so proud of you, Odette. You’re the bravest person I know.”

“Me?! But I’ve always wanted to be more like you! You’re the brave one. You’re the one who takes risks and doesn’t care what anybody else thinks.”

“Odette.” Marie says, shaking her head as she laughs a little. “What do you call this?” Again, she gestures around them. “Maybe I’m the more confident sister, but you? You are the brave one. Trust me on that.”

Odette feels a tear roll down her cheek and suddenly it’s time to say goodbye. 

She holds her sister tight. “I’m so happy you came.”

“Me too.” 

“You’ll come back soon? With papa too?”

“You couldn’t keep me away even if you tried.” Marie assures her.

-

Since receiving her sister’s blessing, Odette feels like she’s in a happy daze. She has no worries left. Nothing nagging in the back of her mind to spike her nerves.

Well, almost nothing. 

“It’s a full moon tonight.” Teresa says one morning as they sit down for breakfast. 

“Oh?” Odette replies, wondering what this could be about.

“Yes, I was wondering if. If you might like to help me collect pondweed from the lake. For the salve. Its properties are much more potent during a full moon.”

Odette smiles. “I’d love that.”

-

They wait until the moon shines directly on the centre of the lake. It’s just the two of them, the others all having gone to bed hours earlier and Odette is grateful for that. Grateful not to have any eyes on her during her first attempt at this, yes, but more grateful to be alone with Tessa.

As they approach the lake, Tessa casts an underwater breathing spell and Odette sees the almost transparent outline of what looks to be a bubble cover each of their faces and they each have small drawstring bags attached to their wrists for their ingredients. Then she begins to unbutton her dress, until she can push it off her shoulders and allow it to fall to the ground, leaving just her thin slip covering her. 

The air shifts between them as Odette tries to keep her mouth from falling open and Teresa, sensing this, feels the slightest hint of a blush creep upon her cheeks. She steps towards Odette and stands behind her, she moves her long silky hair over one of her shoulders, exposing her neck. Odette shivers, feeling her breath on her skin and Teresa cannot help but place a kiss there, before she begins undoing the lace of her dress. Soon, it too becomes loose enough to pull down her shoulders for her to step out of it.

Then, the Fairy Queen steps into the lake, turning and holding out her hand for Odette to follow.

The lake’s surface shimmers in the moonlight, as though it's alive with magic. 

They walk until the water is up to their waists and Teresa says, “The pondweed is most powerful when collected from the deepest point of the lake, but we can stay where it’s shallow if you wish.”

“I’m okay.” Odette says, walking until her feet no longer touch the ground.

They swim to the centre of the lake before coming to a stop. The moonlight shines down on them, casting them in a pale white glow. And before Odette can think about it she says, “You’re so beautiful.”

Teresa gently tugs on her elbows, bringing them closer together in the water. She slides her hands down to Odette’s waist, holding her steady as their legs entangle. Their faces are inches apart, close enough for Teresa to lean in and kiss her softly. 

Heat spreads through her entire body and when they pull apart all Odette can say is, “Is the full moon very important for the harvest?”

Teresa looks only at Odette’s lips, wanting nothing more than to kiss her again and again and never stop. Instead she says, “Very.” 

And it takes everything Odette has to say, “So we should… Probably… Start then.”

Teresa laughs softly, tucking a strand of hair behind Odette’s ear. “Ready?”

“Ready.”

They sink beneath the surface into what Odette can only describe as another Enchanted Forest, with hidden caves and flowing greenery and life in all directions. Teresa looks at her, then down at the bed of pondweed and back at her. Odette nods and Teresa leads her down deeper and deeper into the depths of the water.

When they reach the bottom, they each begin pulling up handfuls of the long, leafy grass, placing it directly into their bags. The moon casts a silver shadow on all that it touches beneath the lake’s surface and Odette can’t help but think how lovely Tessa looks in it. Paired with her hair splayed out all around her and the way her slip hovers up above her knees, she looks like some kind of angel. 

They manage to work in uninterrupted concentration for a time, but the closer Odette’s bag comes to being full, the harder she finds it to focus. Perhaps she’s growing tired. It is late after all. But rather, she thinks it has more to do with the memory of Teresa’s hands on her hips and her breath hot against her lips, the heat inside of her that never fully went away and the stare she currently feels burning into her.

Teresa’s bag appears to be full and her gaze now on Odette makes her forget how to breathe. She makes her way over, floating beneath her until they come face to face. Odette studies her features, wanting nothing more than to kiss her, and when Teresa places both her hands on either side of her face, she does.

They kiss languidly, tiny bubbles floating up above them and they decide to follow them, floating up and up and up, never breaking apart. When they reach the surface they look at each other, eyes dark and wild.

“I think that’s enough collecting.” Teresa says and their mouths immediately find each other again. Odette gasps when Teresa takes her time trailing kisses down her jaw, down her neck until her tongue dips into the hollow of her clavicle. 

Odette’s hands cling to her hips, pulling her as close as she possibly can, until it simply isn’t enough. She’s desperate for more friction, with every brush of the Queen’s lips sending sparks through her entire body.

Teresa nuzzles into her neck, smiling into her skin as she presses her thigh between Odette’s legs.

“Oh.” Odette moans, sinking down into the contact.

She begins to rock her hips and Tessa takes her by the hips, stabilising her. She’s mesmerised by the way Odette moves, by the hitch of her shaking breath and the sound of her moans, mesmerised still when Odette brings her hand up to gently stroke her cheek.

And she thinks how– how did she live so long without this? She’s ruled over the Enchanted Forest for so many years and somehow this, right now, is the most enchanted thing she has ever witnessed.

“Angel.” She whispers, one hand on the small of her back, the other tracing a line from her neck down her sternum and Odette comes apart immediately. Her head arches back and Tessa holds her steady, cooing softly.

Odette’s breath comes fast as she wraps her arms around Teresa’s neck, nuzzling her nose into her cheek as she says, “I love you.”

“My darling.” Tessa gasps, capturing her lips in another long, languid kiss.

“I want–” Odette says against her lips, kissing her again. “I want–” She repeats, grasping at Teresa’s back.

“On land, perhaps?” Teresa suggests, raising an eyebrow.

Odette nods, seemingly still breathless.

They hurry to the shallows, soon stepping onto dry land and a brand new fire is ignited in Odette seeing the way the Fairy Queen’s slip now clings to her skin, accentuating the swell of her breasts and her hardened nipples. She takes both of Teresa’s hands, standing on her tiptoes to kiss her lips, sliding her hands up to her cheeks, as she deepens the kiss.

They walk backwards until Teresa’s back comes to rest against a large tree covered with soft moss. She moans into the kiss and Odette feels emboldened, sucking on her bottom lip. When they part, her eyes are just as dark as when they broke the surface of the water. Her hand lightly traces the curve of her breast, catching her nipple in the crook of her thumb, squeezing lightly.

Teresa gasps, her hands on Odette’s shoulders as her head rests back against the tree, her eyes fluttering shut. 

Odette’s head spins, unsure of what to do but wanting to do so much. She wants to rush frantically and take everything as slowly as possible at the same time. Savour every moment. She dips her head down, taking Teresa’s nipple into her mouth, sucking through the fabric, coaxing a deep groan from the other woman. Then she lifts her head again, bringing her fingers to the thin strap of her slip. She places soft kisses along her shoulder, pushing the strap along as she does, until it hangs loosely off her shoulder.

Teresa allows her to tug the fabric down, pulling her arms free, her eyes never leaving Odette as she continues to trail kisses across her chest until she reaches her other breast, taking her nipple into her mouth and swirling her tongue around it. Teresa shivers at the contact, placing her hands at either side of Odette’s face as the younger woman begins flicking her tongue over the hardened bud.

“Ah.” Teresa breathes, as she feels her teeth lightly drag across her skin.

Odette dips lower, trailing her tongue as she does, stopping to place kisses on the underside of her breast, her stomach, her hip, until she reaches the slip that still clings to the lower half of her body. She curls her fingers beneath the wet fabric, dragging it all the way down until Tessa steps out of it.

They gaze at each other then, chests heaving and nerves building once more. Odette notices the way the muscles in her thighs tense, just for a moment, and the need to soothe the ache between her Queen’s thighs takes over again. She kisses her thigh, making her way inward until her nose brushes against soft, thick hair, making Teresa’s breath hitch.

“My sweet girl.” She breathes and Odette can’t wait any longer, taking her into her mouth.

Teresa tastes sweet like lake water and something a little more magical. She drags her tongue up her slit, repeatedly pushing upwards into her clit, making the other woman press her hips down, desperate for more pressure, her hands now placed on the back of Odette’s head and Odette works her mouth faster, swirling her tongue over and over, stopping only to suck, desperate to find out what makes her Queen shudder and moan. Desperate to discover exactly what makes her call out to the sky above and bury her fingers deep in Odette’s hair. It’s utterly enchanting, the way she so readily submits. The way she completely comes apart at Odette’s touch.

Odette holds onto her thighs as they shake, looking up at the older woman as her eyelids flutter shut and her chest swiftly rises and falls.

“Beautiful.” She whispers.

Teresa tries to catch her breath but she’s too impatient. She gently tugs Odette back up towards her, bringing their bodies flush together and Odette can feel the rapid beat of her heart through her chest. She messily kisses her temple, the corner of her mouth, until she reaches her lips, pausing only to breathe and then whisper, “I love you.” She deepens the kiss, repeating, “I love you.” Saying it over and over again, kissing her jaw, her neck and her chest, as Odette throws her head back, readily allowing the other woman to run her hands over her breasts, then up and over her shoulders, bringing the straps of her slip down and down until she removes the garment completely.

She switches their positions, so that Odette now rests back against the tree. She pins her there, taking in the sight of her, devouring her with just a look, before kissing her again. Her hands slide down to cup her breasts, rolling her thumbs over her nipples, making Odette whimper into the kiss.

“Darling.” She whispers, against her lips, making Odette moan. “Tell me what you want.”

“I–” The younger woman stutters, trying to press her body closer to the Fairy Queen’s, thrusting her hips just enough to make the other woman smile at her neediness. “I– I don’t know.” She manages, shaking her head almost frantically, so taken over by want that she can’t think about specifics. 

Teresa’s hand slowly travels down her ribcage, as she leans in close to her ear and repeats, “Tell me.”

“Everything.” Odette sputters, with every new inch of skin Teresa touches sending sparks straight to her core. “Just.” She swallows thickly. “Everything.”

Using her free hand, Teresa lifts her chin with a single finger, smiling as she says, “I think I can manage that.” Her other hand travels further south, inching towards where Odette needs her most. “Shall I tell you what I want?”

“Yes.” Odette says without hesitation, her breath shaking.

“I want to find out exactly what you like.” She says, making her shiver. Then she cups her heat, eliciting a moan from the younger woman, looking into her eyes as she asks, “Do you like this?”

“Mm–” She nods. “Yes. Yes.”

The Fairy Queen slowly buries her fingers deep within her folds, spreading her apart and dragging her fingers upwards, before bringing her slick-covered hand back up between them. She looks at her glistening fingers, admiring them, as she says, “I see.”

A blush creeps up Odette’s neck, not stopping until it reaches her cheeks. Her lips part when Teresa brings her fingers to her own mouth, sucking them clean, before returning her hand to its former position.

She runs her fingers back and forth across her slit, stopping to circle them around her clit for a brief moment, making Odette bite down on her lip and she jolts forward. Teresa can tell how close she is, it wouldn’t take much, she’s halfway there again herself, but she wants to draw this out just a little bit longer.

Slowly, she circles a finger at her entrance. “I want to discover the things capable of making your pretty mouth curse at the stars.” She says, and Odette’s eyes grow wider, before she cups Tessa’s face and brings their mouths together.

She can feel what Teresa is asking, can feel where her finger still lingers, and so she nods, whispering, “Yes.” And the older woman slowly pushes a finger inside of her. Odette’s hands move from the Queen’s cheeks to her shoulders, her fingers lightly digging in as she groans.

Teresa gently works her finger in and out of her, asking, “Okay?” And picking up the pace a little when Odette nods. She uses the heel of her palm to press down and rub against her clit, whispering words of affection all the while.

“Tessa.” Odette breathes, her legs beginning to shake.

“Come for me, sweet girl.” Teresa replies, sending her over the edge entirely. She gasps at the sight, marvelling at the way Odette comes undone completely at her words. At the way she trembles and cries out, her breath coming hard and fast just before she collapses against the other woman.

“You’re magnificent.” Teresa tells her, stroking her hair.

Odette smiles into her shoulder, still catching her breath. She clings to the other woman, savouring this moment, this closeness.

When they finally part, both exhausted and slicked with sweat, they decide to take a final dip in the lake. They float together contentedly, arms wrapped around each other as they talk and laugh and gently wash each other clean.

“And you’ll teach me?” Odette asks. “Tomorrow?”

“Yes, I’ll teach you.” Teresa smiles, as they lazily spin in the water.

“And it won’t matter that I’m not magical like you?”

“Well, now that’s up for debate. I think you are quite magical.” Odette giggles. “But, no. If you use the correct ingredients and follow the recipe, all should work perfectly.”

Odette beams at the prospect. 

“I think…” She begins, nervously biting her lip, “I think we should try and make as much as we can. I was thinking about what Marie said, how something like the salve could really help people. If we make more for her next visit, she could take more back with her.” She says.

“Alright.”

“Really?” Odette lights up.

“We’ll have to collect more ingredients more often, but I hardly think that will be a problem.” She tilts her head, smirking as she says, “I’m certainly not opposed to more late night swims with you.”

Odette laughs. “That’s settled then.” 

Teresa smiles fondly at the girl in her arms.

Yes, she thinks. She is quite magical indeed.