Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Henry stood in front of a door marked 205, ringing the doorbell. A few moments passed before it opened to reveal a young blonde woman in a hot pink dress standing tall in her five-inch heels. Her confusion was evident, her brows knitted together. "Umm, can I help you?''
''Are you Emma Swan?'' He asked.
''Yeah, who are you?" She replied.
''My name is Henry. I'm your son.'' Emma's eyes fixed on the boy, seeming more confused than ever.

There was no way this was the baby she had given up 10 years ago. It couldn't be. It was not long before he made things clear that he was indeed her child. He explained that he needed her help and that they needed to go to Storybrooke, Maine. When she finally gave in, she led the way out to her yellow Bug. The drive was long and it was late, but she needed to return him back home. His parents must been worried about him, sneaking off like that in the middle of the night, all alone.

Finally arriving in a quaint town, it seemed like a good place. They were first welcomed by the giant ''Welcome to Storybrooke''.
She noticed the quietness of the small town, it strangely felt homey. Then her eyes landed on the large clock tower, the hands showed 8:15 and did not move an inch. Distracted by the frozen clock, she barely had time to jam on the breaks when a Dalmatian jumped in front of the car barking at the two of them. She stopped and got out of the yellow bug. The owner came along shortly, he had clearly been chasing after him

''Hey! I'm so sorry, I hope you're ok.'' He apologized.
''Yeah, we're okay. What are you doing out this late?'' She asked.
''Oh, I like to take a walk at night and listen to the grasshoppers chirp. It puts my mind at ease. What are you doing around here? I don't believe I've seen you around here before. Name's Archie, what's yours?''
''Don't worry about me, I won't be staying long. I'm just returning this lost boy to his mother.''
She pointed at Henry, who tried his best to lay low trying not to be recognized.

Archie peered into the window recognizing him immediately. ''Henry? Where did you run off to? Your mother must be worried!'' He had a slight tremble in his voice, almost nervous to even talk about this woman.
''It's okay, I'm taking him home right now.''
''House is at the end of this street. Can't miss it, the large white manor. Mayor Mills will be happy to see Henry return home. I wouldn't keep her waiting too long. You better get going.'' Archie warned.
Emma was taken aback by the size of the manor, it was much bigger than anything she had ever seen in her life. It reassured her to see that Henry was living in such a place, he must have had a good life.

As they walked towards the house's main entrance, Henry pleaded to Emma to not take him back. Insisted his mother was evil, that she didn't love him, only pretended to. Emma assured him it wasn't true, no mother could possibly be evil. The door opened before they could reach the end of the pathway, a petite woman in a gray knee-length dress ran towards them and took Henry in her arms. ''Henry...'' She whispered, hugging him. ''Are you okay? Where have you been? What happened?''
Henry angrily replied, ''I found my real mom!'' and stormed off into the house.
Making his way into his room.

The brunette turned to the blonde, anger, sadness, and confusion in her eyes, ''You're Henry's birthmother?''
''Hi...'' Her voice barely above a whisper.
Emma noticed a man standing behind the Mayor, there was no reason for him to be here at this time other than for sex. He looked a bit younger than her, with his light brown hair a tad tousled, and a bit of scruff on his chin. He was dressed in his work clothes, a necktie, a brown leather coat and a badge to finish the look. The Sheriff and Mayor, this town's laws must be something difficult to get around.

''I'm Regina, Mayor of Storybrooke and Henry's mother.'' She smiled at Emma and stuck her hand out to shake. ''How would you like a glass of the best apple cider you've ever tasted?'' Emma agreed and went inside to enjoy a glass.
The two conversed about Henry. His childhood, his accomplishments, and Regina bragged about how much of a great life he had. How much she loved and cared for him.
After a while, Emma excused herself, saying she should get going, and thanked Regina for her hospitality and the glass of cider.
On the drive back, her eyes made contact with the Storybook that Henry had left behind in the passenger seat. Her eyes momentarily left the road ahead, almost hitting a deer, swerving to avoid it only to crash into the very welcome sign they had passed on their arrival only a few hours prior. The horn blared when her face landed on the wheel, pages of the book flipped almost on their own, and then everything went black.

Chapter Text

Regina's doorbell rang, opening the door to reveal a man who just stood there waiting for her to give her usual instructions. To bark out her demands for this late-night call. But she didn't. She looked out of sorts, her normally groomed hair was not coiffed as usual, a few streaks of mascara bled down her cheek and her nose was reddened. She had been crying, but she would never admit to such a thing.

''Come in Graham, and please sit. Would you like a cup of tea?'' She simply asked.
He looked at her in disbelief, never in his entire existence had she ever asked him anything so kindly. This was new, he nodded. ''Yes, tea sounds good.''
He followed her to her office where she sat in the chair opposed to his. They sat in silence sipping on their tea for a few moments. Graham was not sure if he was to break the silence or if Regina was expecting him to. She spoke up first. ''I know what you're thinking. Why did I call you over here in the middle of the night if not to do our usual late-night meeting? Truth is, I need your help to find Henry. He's been missing, I'm starting to worry.''
He had never seen her so vulnerable. She upheld this cold, powerful persona at all times. Never breaking the mask. But she looked defeated. He knew her son was her one weakness. The one person she loved most, she would set the world on fire to save him if she had to.

A couple they were not, he knew Regina was not looking for love, he was just a means to an end. When he would no longer be valuable to her, she would move on to the next target. For the moment he remained of value to her, being the Sheriff and helping her in legal matters, without forgetting the occasional booty call.
''Do you have any idea where he might have gone? Who would want to kidnap him? I know he's been struggling in school lately, could it be bullies, with his active imagination and all?''
''Regina, I understand your concern but we can't jump to conclusions. Kids run away from home, it's not an uncommon occurrence. You just need to be patient and let the authorities handle this. I'll call around and see if anyone knows anything, I'll also make some calls in case his picture is shown on the news.''
Anger was rising within her, ''Why would he run away? He has everything he needs here. Are you insinuating he would run away from me?''
A strained vein smack in the middle of her forehead throbbed at the mere thought of him commenting on her parenting.
''I didn't mean anything by it Regina. Kids don't always think things through, emotions run high, and sometimes bad decisions are made.''
She nods in agreement. He exhaled in relief at her reaction. Everyone was terrified of her, including Graham and she liked it that way. He sometimes wondered why he kept on coming back here, to her. Walking out towards the front door, she opened it.

To her surprise, it was Henry. He was back home. Regina ran to her son taking him in her arms and squeezing him tight. Both anger and relief washed over her. It was quickly squashed by the realization that he was not alone. There stood a blonde stranger next to her son. Who was she? She was not from here, how did she get here?
Henry stormed off, leaving Emma behind with Regina to talk things over. Graham who was standing behind the pair followed Henry inside and up into his room. Leaving the two women alone to chat, while he checked on the boy.

Chapter Text

Emma woke up. Her head pounding from the accident, a man was staring at her from the other side of the jail cell. It took a moment before she realized it was the same man she had seen at Regina's house the night prior. He was handsome, that she couldn't deny. She could tell there was something about him. He was almost like a hurt puppy.
He flashed her a smile and introduced himself as Sheriff Graham. He told her that he needed to take her statement.
''I was on my way back home and a deer jumped in front of my car. I swerved and slid into the ditch. The airbag went off, I passed out. That's all I remember.''
Graham didn't look convinced, ''That's strange, the report says you were driving under the influence.''
''No, that's not true. I didn't drink anything. Shit, the Mayor...she gave me a glass of cider.''
''Mayor Mills is an important woman in this town. I wouldn't go around accusing the Mayor of such things, without proof. You'll need a good lawyer if you continue with that.''

Another man in a suit walks into the station, ''Ask and you shall receive. You called me sheriff?''
''Ah, Mr. Forrester, this is Emma. Emma, meet Mr. Glenn Forrester, Storybrooke's top attorney. He will be able to help you.''
Emma scoffed. ''I doubt that you would want to help me. You work for her, I saw you there last night.''
''I'm not here on Regina's behalf. I'm doing this for Henry. I promised I would look into things, and I'm a man of my word. I know she is a hard woman, and you may not be fond of her, but she is a wonderful mother. She loves Henry very much but that doesn't mean you need to be locked up. If we can get you out of here, everyone will have what they want. A happy ending. And then you can get back to wherever you came from.''
Graham unlocked the cell door. Emma walked out slowly, and the Sheriff led the way out of the station.

Emma looked up and realized it was now morning, she must have been out for hours. Her eyes met with the clock tower, the hands were still. She was not sure why the clock wasn't moving, but she did not want to stick around to find out. She just wanted to get back to her old life and have everything return to normal. Not stay in this weird town any longer. Graham who had followed her out returned Emma's car keys, and her bug was parked out in front of the station. She looked at it in disbelief, ''It's fixed? But how? I don't have insurance or the money to pay for a car shop.''
Graham gestured towards the shop on the other side of the street. ''Mr. Gold personally paid for the repairs. He's the one who suggested I call Mr. Forrester in for assistance in your case. Thank your lucky stars he didn't ask for a deal in return.''
She shook her head and sighed, could this place get any stranger? She needed to leave town soon, but she wanted to see Henry one last time.

**
At the Mayor's house, Glenn had already started digging up information about the newcomer. ''Her name is Emma Swan, 28 years old. She has a record, serving time for theft while she was only a teen. She was pregnant with Henry whilst in hospital, but I can't find information about the father.''
Regina's eyes rolled, ''Not surprised that he would be a criminal as well...I never should have trusted Gold with the adoption process.''
''Now now Regina, don't be hasty. Henry is not hurt, he's safe and sound, and back home with you. I'll find out why Emma is here and if she plans on staying much longer.''
''I wouldn't worry about that.'' She replies a small smile playing at the corner of her mouth.

Henry, who was listening closely to their conversation around the corner, gasped and barged into the room, his face red with anger. ''What are you going to do to her?! You can't send her away!''
Regina stands, walking closer to her son, ''Henry, she abandoned you. She doesn't deserve to have you. I raised you, took care of you because I love you, Henry.''
''You don't! If you did you wouldn't send her away. You would listen to me and try to understand. You never even tried to hear me out. I'm not a little kid anymore, I'm 10. You're not my real mom. You're evil, she's the hero this town needs. And you, you're working for her.'' He glares at the both of them before running up the stairs, locking himself in his room.

Glenn and Regina share a glance, and he nods. Noticing the pain afflicted by the words of the little boy. He knew it was time to take his leave, ''I'll talk to her, see what her plans are, and report back.'' He placed a hand on her shoulder before making his way out.
He could understand the pain she must be feeling, having a child of his own whom he loved more than anything. He couldn't imagine having someone, despite them being related by blood trying to take him away from her. After all, he too was a single parent. His wife had passed away shortly after the birth of their son, Oliver. She was the love of his life.

There sat Regina, tears stinging her eyes. Her heart broken, feeling defeated. She knows everything he said is true, she is not Henry's birth mother and that she is indeed evil. But he is her son, the only son she will ever have. She can't lose him, she just can't. Following him up to his room, only to find it empty, the window open. She looks outside, and he's gone again. She's not sure where he is, but she has an idea. He's probably gone back to her...that Emma Swan.

**
Emma made her way to Gold's shop, wanting to repay her debt in some way. The door chimes as she enters the dusty, cluttered store. There's so much stuff, it's overwhelming. An older gentleman with a cane appears from behind the curtain, he walks up to the counter with a noticeable limp. ''Welcome dearie, what can I do for you?''
She hesitates for a second, ''I heard that you paid for the repairs on my car and sought out for me to have an attorney. I wanted to thank you and see if there was anything I could do for you in return. I don't even know you, but I can't leave a debt unpaid, I'll do anything I can.''
He laughs, ''Nothing more I like to hear. I have no use for you at the moment, but let's just say you will owe me one. Do we have a deal?''

What a strange character she thought, what's the harm in making a deal with someone when you have no plans on staying? Deal. Emma said, her hand extended to his shaking it. The door chimes and Henry bursts in. He had run away again and followed her. He's panting, catching his breath, and running straight into her arms. ''Emma, you're okay. You can't leave, you need to break the curse. You're the Saviour, evil can't win.''
Emma smiled, the poor kid must be really lonely. His imagination is so vivid.

A familiar voice comes from the door, ''Henry?''
Emma turns, seeing Graham standing at the door. ''He came into the station looking for you after hearing about your arrest. I told him you were here, he ran so fast I had a hard time keeping up. Come on Henry, now you know she's okay, let's get you back home.''
''No, I'm not going anywhere, Emma is my Mom, and she's going to fix everything and give everyone their happy endings.''
Graham looked at the confused blonde, ''Emma, could you step outside for a second please?''
She obliged, and they stepped outside.

''Henry is a wonderful boy, but he has his issues. His therapist thinks he's been having delusions. He's been making up a whole world in his head, a town cursed. People are fairy tale characters. The book is a big part of his fantasies. I think it may be best to not feed into those delusions.''
Emma nodded, it seemed logical, but she was starting to have her doubts. It was very strange that the Sheriff knew about Henry's sessions with Archie, the therapist. How could he know so much about Henry? Had Regina told him as much? Were they closer than he led on, Emma knew that Graham was at Regina's beck and call...but was he just another one of her playthings?
She pushed the thought away and went back inside, Henry was sitting on the stool at the counter, a frown on his face.

Emma approached him, placing a hand on his shoulder, and looking at Gold. ''Hey kid, what do you say I stay the week so that we can spend time together? I could come by and visit some weekend. That way everyone is happy.''
He looks up at her with a sparkle in his eye. ''So, you're not going to leave?''
Emma smiles, ''Not until next Sunday. That gives us 7 days to have fun.''

Henry was hopeful that those 7 days would make Emma believe that what he was saying was true. So he accepted her offer. ''Looks like you've come to a good compromise. I'll leave you two to it, if you need anything just call the station.'' Graham intervened.
They exit the shop and make their way down Main Street. Where Henry suggested they go to his favourite spot, the castle park near the water.

Chapter Text

It was a nice day, and it was easy to see how much Henry loved this place. He beamed with excitement and joy, a stark contrast to how she saw him only moments ago. There was a castle with a playground, a few swings, and benches all near a calm stream of water.
''You really love it here don't you, Kid?''
Henry looked at her and nodded. ''I know everyone thinks I'm crazy, and they all say the same thing. But here I can play, imagine that I am Prince Henry of Storybrooke without anyone saying anything. And this is my castle.'' He gestures proudly to the large castle.
She smiled, the kid's imagination was incredible, but she had to keep reminding herself not to feed into his fantasy. He was just a lonely kid, and she wasn't sure if her leaving would hurt him or not. But it wasn't fair of her to stick around and confuse him, the more time she spent with him the more he would fall in love with the idea of her being his mom. And she was not ready to be a mom, she had given him up for adoption all those years ago and the adoption was supposed to be closed...never having to meet, but here they were.

Her thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a high-pitched voice calling out, ''Henry?''
They both recognized the voice immediately. Henry slumped his shoulders, ready to be scolded for having run away, yet again. Emma knew she would also get a good earful for hanging around longer than she was supposed to. Regina was furious, and as she got closer, her voice showed no signs of mercy. Her short brown hair bounced with each step as she neared. ''What are you still doing here? And with Henry?'' Her eyes narrowed, and she continued, ''You told me you were leaving, Miss Swan. Now that you have returned Henry home, you are welcome to leave my town.''
Henry intervened before Emma could reply, ''I asked her to stay for the week. Just until next Sunday. She's not doing anything wrong. Why can't she stay a few more days? She's my birth mom, and I want to get to know her.''

Regina softened, knowing that there was no reason for her to continue acting as the bad guy. It would get her nowhere, she would find another way to get rid of Emma. So she changed her approach, ''Henry, I have always tried to give you what you wanted, and if you wish to spend time with Emma, then that's fine.''
She kissed the top of his head, and made eye contact with Emma, ''See you for supper, Henry.'' She walked off, leaving them alone again.
''That was weird, she was almost... nice,'' Emma said.
Henry laughed, ''Don't worry, it won't last long. She's up to something, I can tell by the look on her face.''
''You have a very creative mind, Henry. I'm sure she just wants what's best for you.'' But even Emma could feel that there was something off with the woman, the way she looked at her, was unsettling.

Henry and Emma sat on the castle, recounting stories from their past. It was strange to think that this boy, was in fact her son. They had a connection, a bond, that could not be denied. She was his mother, and he was her son. Emma's phone rang. She picked up the unknown caller, ''Hello?''
''Hi Emma, it's Glenn.'' He said in his thick English accent.
''Oh, hi, shoot! I forgot to come and see you about the whole bailing me out thing.''
''Yes, well I was actually calling to see if we could meet. I've done some digging and turns out I may be able to remove any charges laid on you by the Mayor. What do you say we talk more at Granny's dinner, 6 pm?''
She agreed and hung up the phone, turning to Henry. ''I have a meeting in a few, let's get you home before your mom puts me in jail again.''

**
The walk was quiet, Henry's thoughts were somewhere else. They arrived at the Mayor's mansion, and Henry opened the door. Regina greeted him, a smile on her face. ''Henry, you're just in time for supper. Thank you Miss Swan for respecting the curfew and having Henry home on time.''
''No problem, I am a woman of my word. I'll just get going.''
She turned to leave, and Henry followed her. ''Wait! I'll walk you to your car.''
Regina watched as her son walked Emma back to her yellow bug.

''Emma, who were you talking to on the phone at the park that had us leave in such a hurry?''
''Mr. Forrester, he's helping me with my case. There's a good chance that Regina won't have me locked up again, so that's good news.''
Henry looked at her, a frown on his face. ''He's helping you? Don't trust him.'' He whispered with a worried look in his eyes.
Emma was confused. ''Henry, he's the best lawyer. That's what Mr. Gold told me.''
He nodded, but his eyes were worried, his tone serious. ''Gold? You think he has your best interest at heart?''
''No, but we made a deal. He paid for the repairs for my car, and in return, I have to work with Glenn on this case. But I don't plan on sticking around long enough for that to be a problem. But why don't you trust Glenn?''
Henry took a step closer to Emma, whispering, ''Because he works for my mom, I overheard them talking about you. You've seen how much time he spends with her.''

''Explains a lot.'' Emma said to herself.
''Henry, dinner is going to get cold. Come inside.'' Regina called out from the doorstep.
''I'll keep you posted. See you tomorrow kid.'' Emma said, as she opened the bug door and sank slowly down into the seat.
She watched Henry move back up the path until he was inside and the door closed behind him.

Chapter Text

Emma was a little early, she parked the car and entered the small dinner. It was rather quiet, but then again most people must be sharing a meal with their families.
Glenn was already there, his laptop open, a half-drunk beer in front of him. He called out her name, beckoning her to join him.
She sat across from him, taking in the room.

A young woman was eating alone, her raven black pixie-cut hair framing her face. Emma had never seen the woman before but she felt so familiar. The girl was looking down, but Emma could see she was writing in a notebook. She was about to ask Glenn who this woman was exactly, when the girl suddenly looked up, locking eyes with Emma. Emma looked away, but she couldn't get the image of the deep blue eyes out of her head. She wondered where she knew her from because surely she couldn't have just met her.

Glenn was busy typing away, and the waitress walked over in her tall heels to take Emma's order. Emma watched as she shuffled from table to table, eager to order. She noticed, that every man at the dinner looked at the waitress for a moment too long, and Emma could see why, the girl was beautiful with her dark brown hair with red streaks tied up in two low pigtails. Wearing a white miniskirt and a skimpy top to match the ensemble. Her mind wandered away, watching the waitress move around the restaurant.

Glenn closed his laptop to inform Emma about his findings, ''So, it seems that Henry has been running away a lot lately. I wouldn't worry about Regina's accusation that you kidnapped Henry, the evidence is flimsy at best. It's clear that Henry has an attachment to you, I can speak with Henry's therapist to get a statement as to how you being in his life will benefit him.''
She was surprised, he had been thorough. ''Thank you, Glenn. I wasn't expecting you to go through this much trouble for me, and you barely know me.''
He laughed, a genuine laugh. ''I know what the bond of a parent and a child is like. It's the strongest bond out there, and Henry clearly cares a great deal for you, the least I can do is help. Regina loves him, that I know, but I don't believe that pushing you out is the way to go about things.''
''Thank you. I didn't think I would ever have this, you know, family. How can I repay you for your help?''
''You know that favor you owe Mr. Gold. Consider it repaid, I have some business I have to take care of, so if you'll excuse me. Good luck Emma, I will keep in touch. Enjoy the rest of your dinner, and welcome to Storybrooke.''
She watched as he packed up his laptop. ''Wait! Who is that?'' She jerked her head towards the woman who was sitting alone a few tables away from theirs.

Glenn turned, looking at the fair-skinned, black-haired woman and back to Emma a bit confused by the randomness of her question, ''Oh, that's Mary Margaret. Henry's teacher.''
Emma nodded, ''Ok, thanks I thought she may be someone I knew from...home.'' She lied, noticing Glenn's confusion, but she didn't want to seem odd about her thinking she knew this person whom she had just met.
''I'll call you when I have more information.''
She watched him walk out of the diner. Leaving her alone to finish her meal.

It was not long before that same raven-haired woman slid into the booth across from her. ''Hi, I saw you looking at me. Do I know you from somewhere? Did I teach one of your kids? Oh gosh, sorry I don't seem to recognize you.''
''Name is Emma, I'm Henry's m...a family friend.'' She hesitated, not sure if she was comfortable calling herself mom.
''Oh, Henry! What a sweet kid, such a beautiful and imaginative mind.''
Emma smiled, ''I've been told that he has a very vivid imagination.''
''Yes, ever since I gave him the storybook I found in my things. He just became enveloped in the stories, he thinks they're real. That the stories are about us. Who does he think you are? I'm sorry that was a lot and I don't think I've even introduced myself yet. I'm Mary Margaret.''
''Nice to meet you. I'm...not sure who he thinks I am. He seems to think Regina is the Evil Queen, isn't that sad, she's his mother.''

Mary Margaret sighed, a frown on her face, ''Oh yeah, he's told me about that. He's not a bad kid, but Regina is hard on him. She loves him, in her own way. She doesn't understand that her ways of showing love are only making things worse for the both of them. I think he may feel trapped and alone. He might be trying to find his own happy ending.''
Emma took a moment to ponder the thoughts, it all made sense. She could understand the feeling, she was an orphan. Left on the side of the road, then moved from foster home to foster home. She had spent all of her childhood in the system, never really having a real family. A place to call home.

The pair conversed like they had known each other for a long time. A sense of familiarity, of ease, during her brief encounter with Mary Margaret. Before retreating to the inn above the dinner Emma asked, ''Who does he think you are?''
Mary Margaret looked away, and said, ''Snow White. Can you imagine? True love, happily ever after...my life is far from that. I have yet to find my Prince Charming but I like to hope that one day I will find him.''
Emma's eyes widened remembering what Henry had said to her at the park. Snow White, was supposedly her mother. Mother of the Saviour, the object of true love. She wanted to ask her so many questions but stopped herself, reminding herself not to feed into his fantasy. None of it was real, she was tired and needed to get some rest.

Chapter Text

It was a few hours later, and Emma was fast asleep when she heard a tapping sound on her window. She opened her eyes and got out of bed. Making her way over to the window, she noticed Graham was standing outside, a worried look on his face. She opened the window and looked down.
''Emma, we have a situation, and I need your help. You'll have to be quiet, and not use any lights, it's best we not alert Regina that I'm here. Can you meet me downstairs?''
Emma quickly changed into jeans, without forgetting to put on her red leather jacket, and made her way down quietly. ''Graham, what are you doing here in the middle of the night? Is it Henry?''
''No, I was just with...I mean checking on Regina and Henry as I do every night, and I had a strange dream or vision. I know it's strange but I need you to believe me, I saw a wolf, just like you said you did the night of the accident. So I followed him into the forest and then it was like I remembered something from a past life, I remembered...pulling a knife on Mary Margaret. Then everything went black, your name has been ringing in my ears ever since I first saw you. Like you have an answer, something I've been searching for.''
She stared at him, trying to make sense of what he was telling her.

He was making less sense than Henry was. She was not sure what was going on but she knew he was scared and could see how shaken up. ''Look Graham, you're stressed you need sleep. Did you have any of Regina's cider when you went by there?''
''No, there wasn't time for drinks...I was- it's not important. Emma, I need you to help me.'' Before she could process anything he was saying he leaned in, planting a kiss on her lips.
Her body was screaming at her to push him off, to stop him. But her mind was blank, this was so out of the blue.
''Emma, did you see that too?'' He was out of breath, and his eyes were filled with wonder, like a kid who had just gotten a puppy for his birthday.
''See what? Are you crazy?'' She pushed him off her. ''I'm going back to bed. It's the middle of the night. You're tired, and not making sense.''
She walked back up the stairs, and her thoughts were all over the place. Graham remembered everything, he needed to get to the one person who would believe him. The one person he knew could help him sort things out.

**
The bell at the top of the door rang, ''Mr. Gold, it's Graham, I need your help.''
Mr. Gold made his way forward, wrapped cozily in his night robe. ''What seems to be the problem, Graham?''
''I remember.'' He was shaking, his eyes filled with worry. ''I remember everything. Regina, she has my heart...She cast the curse. Sent us all here... I remembered all of this because of Emma, when I kissed her, I saw flashes of our past.''
Gold was quiet for a while, trying to understand what he was being told. ''Emma? You say.'' He smirked, knowing he had a secret weapon, his trump card. ''Now now, let's get you a drink."

Gold went to the back of his shop, brought out two glasses filled with amber-coloured liquid, and handed one to Graham. He took the glass, taking a sip, ''Thank you.''
Gold nodded. ''Now, Graham, what is it you expect me to do about this? I don't have any magic here.''
''But you must know of something or someone who can help me get my heart back. I don't know how I have been alive all these years without my heart, and I just want a chance at a real life. I miss feeling. I'm a shell, a shadow of who I once was. I need your help.''
''I'll see what I can do, but we can't tell anyone about this.''
''But we have to, we need to make Emma believe in the curse. Henry thinks she's the Saviour, she is our best chance.''
''We can't rush into this, we need to play our cards right. Emma is not ready yet and Regina is a powerful woman, she will stop at nothing to keep things as they are. We need to be careful and plan things accordingly.''
''I agree, but if you have any idea how I can get my heart back, then I will do whatever it takes.''
''One thing at a time dearie. For now, we must be patient. Time will tell, and things will fall into place. Emma will believe, and she will break this curse as prophesied. Until then, you will keep playing your part as Sheriff. I have nothing to lose here, but you have your heart to protect.''
Graham agreed, knowing it was the best thing to do. ''Yes, of course, Mr. Gold.''

Mr. Gold watched the Sheriff leave the shop, a grin forming on his face. This was just the beginning, and he could see how it would all play out. Regina was not the only one who could play dirty. He made his way back into the backroom of the shop. He sat in his armchair, a chipped teacup in his hand and a tear made its way down his cheek. ''We've got her, Belle.''

**
Regina woke up, startled by a loud noise. She could hear something outside, but not clearly. She moved closer to her bedroom window and peered outside. She could see Graham's police car was still parked outside, he wasn't near the vehicle. A second knock came. ''Shoot.'' She had forgotten they had an appointment tonight.
Regina threw a silk robe over her and made her way down the stairs. She unlocked the front door and Graham barged inside, a crazed look on his face.
He pushed her against the wall and pressed his lips against hers. It was a hungry kiss, like an animal who had not eaten in days. He pulled away, looked at her deeply in the eyes, then closed in for a second kiss. His expression confused Regina, she had no idea what was happening but she couldn't bring herself to stop.

He moved his mouth to her neck, her shoulders, her collarbone. She closed her eyes, moaning softly, enjoying his touch. ''Why isn't it working?'' He whispered.
She pulled away, a look of annoyance on her face. ''Excuse me, what?''
''Regina, something is wrong. I can't feel anything, Henry said something about true love's kiss and I thought....''
Regina laughed, a loud obnoxious laugh, ''True love's kiss, are you out of your mind? This is ridiculous. Henry is a child. Do you believe in his childish delusions? We are not in love. You know I don't do love. I just do whatever this is.''
''Right, I know...I don't know what came over me. It was a stupid idea. I should leave. Sorry for waking you up and coming by this late at night.'' ''I don't mind the company, Graham. Stay we can still have fun.'' She suggested, her tone seductive.
He shook his head and stated that he had to go and so he left. Regina scoffed and made her way back to her room upstairs, where she watched him make his way towards the inn. ''Swan.''

That bitch, was trying to take what was hers, and Regina would not let her. First Henry, then Glenn, and now Graham. She was not about to let this blonde take everything from her. She was done being kind and patient. Emma was not welcome here, and Regina was assured that she would not stay a day longer than planned.

Chapter Text

Regina paid a visit to an old friend of hers. Someone she had not seen in a while, someone who would probably not be too pleased to see her, but would have no choice but to help her if she only said please.
She walked through the door of the shop, and stood at the counter, waiting for him to greet her.
''Ah, Madam Mayor, how lovely it is to see you. What can I do for you today?''
She gave him a tight smile. ''We both know you know why I'm here, Mr. Gold. How did she do it? Tell me what she used, and what she gave you in exchange.''
''Well, I'm afraid I have no idea what you're talking about. You'll have to be more specific. If there is a problem I'd be happy to assist, dearie. But first, tell me what you think I have done, and we will work from there.''
Regina's blood was boiling, and she tried her best not to show it. Her anger was bubbling underneath her calm composure.

''Miss Swan, the Saviour. What did she offer you, and how did she manage to cross the town line? Outsiders don't tend to come into Storybrooke.''
Gold smirked, a devious glint in his eyes. ''I think you know the answer to that, Regina.''
''No! It can't be...she can't be.''
Regina left the shop and headed to her car, fuming. Then her eyes landed on the storybook, Henry had accidentally left in the passenger seat of the car.

There it was... the perfect way to get rid of Emma without killing her or hurting Henry in the process. The poison apple held a sleeping curse, one she used on Snow White back in the Enchanted Forest held the answer. It was all too easy, and Regina knew the right people to go to. The next time she would see her, she would not be the one leaving. It was now her turn, to make a deal with a madman. The mad hatter himself, here his name was Jefferson.

**
Days had passed and Regina had finally gotten her hands on that cursed apple, with Jefferson's help and the little bit of magic left from her engagement ring. A token that kept the magic emanating from her first love, Daniel. As painful as it was to give up, she knew that this small sacrifice was the only way to ensure Emma would no longer be a threat to her relationship with Henry. And with Graham and Emma seemingly getting closer to one another. Regina had to act fast before Emma made plans to extend her stay in Storybrooke...or make this visit more permanent.

**
The next day, Regina prepared her famous apple turnover recipe. She may only have one apple, but that would be enough to make a special parting gift for Miss Swan. The doorbell rang as the pastry was deposited in the oven and the timer set. She wiped her hands, made her way over to the front door, and found the source of her frustrations waiting on her doorstep.

''What are you doing here so early? Henry's not here, and I'm not in the mood for a fight, so whatever it is you came to complain about, you can see yourself out.''
''Actually, I was wanting to tell you something...Graham offered me the Deputy Sheriff position at the station. Looks like we're going to have to find a way to work together. But I just wanted to say that I won't stand in the way of you and Henry. He is the priority, and I just want him to be happy.''
''He WHAT?'' She was livid. Not only was Emma staying, but she was also stealing Graham. That was not going to fly with Regina. ''What a wonderful surprise. Just keep things professional.''
''I just wanted to tell you before word got out, and I promise you this was a strictly professional choice. I have no interest in Graham, he's a good guy. A bit strange but he's good for Henry, and has been nothing but kind to me.''
''Too kind...'' Regina mumbled.
''Oh, you heard? I- he kissed me out of the blue, started rambling about remembering something and he just fled. I had no idea what that was about. He didn't seem like himself and was a bit out of it. I thought maybe he was having a mental break. I guess that's why I took the job, he needs the help. Sorry if that caused an issue with the pair of you, I know you have something going on.''

Regina scoffed, ''We don't. And that's none of your concern.''
The timer of the oven chimed, ''Oh, wait would you like one of my famous apple turnovers for your first day on the job?''
Emma nodded, ''Um, yeah, thanks, I can always use a pick-me-up. My coffee was terrible and I'm dying for something sweet. I'm so sorry to have bothered you. I can just go, it's not a big deal. Thanks again.''
Emma turned to walk away and Regina's lips curled up into a sinister smile, and her eyes were dark with evil thoughts.

The new Deputy would not live long enough to wear that badge. Her plan had worked. Emma was none the wiser and had no idea of the curse that was awaiting her. The Mayor was pleased with herself as she watched the blonde make her way back down the street. Regina sat in wait for the deliciously evil treat to be consumed.

Chapter Text

Emma drove away from the mansion, laughing to herself as she saw the turnover sitting in the container on her side. ''Apples, really?'' She was amused and found it hilarious that Regina had given her an apple-flavoured treat. A symbol well known of the Evil Queen she had read about as a child. Henry would have been so happy to hear her make that reference.

Arriving at the station, Emma placed the turnover on the desk. She waited for Graham to arrive, and when he did, they discussed their daily tasks. ''So are we going to talk about the kiss or are we just pretending this didn't happen? I want you to know that I did not take this job because of you, I took this job for Henry. We should keep things professional. I don't want things to be awkward, and I would like us to remain friends.''
Graham was taken aback by her bluntness, ''Right, friends. I agree, let's keep things professional. I'm sorry about yesterday, Emma. I think you will make a great deputy, that's why I hired you, not because of a kiss. Despite it being a rather great one.'' He teased.
Emma blushed, ''I mean, it was nice. But it's weird, and you're dating the Mayor and all, and-''
''No, you've got that wrong, we are not dating. I am no longer affiliating myself with her.''
She stared at him, confused, and opened her mouth to say something when the phone rang, and they went out on the call.

**
A couple of hours had passed, and they were now having lunch back at the station. The turnover was still sitting atop her desk, she was really looking forward to trying it, and the aroma was driving her wild. As she reached for it, she was displeased to notice Graham grabbing it out and keeping it out of her reach. ''Now, what do we have here? Sure smells amazing.''
He pressed the turnover to his nose and breathed in the delicious scent.

''That's mine! Regina gave that to me, put it down, Graham!'' She tried to snatch it away from him, but he kept moving his arm higher, causing Emma to stand on her tippy toes.
He grimaced at her words, ''I can't believe you would take a gift from her, this is poisoned. I'm sure of it. You should know better. She is not your friend. Why would you accept such a gift from her, Emma? You don't eat anything given to you by that-.''
She stopped trying to grab it from him and sighed cutting him off before he could finish what he was about to say. ''Not this crap again, Graham. Seriously, are we back on this? Come on, man, let it go. There is no curse, and she is not the Evil Queen. She is just a normal person, just like you and me.''

His eyes widened, ''Please believe me, I'm serious.'' He took a deep breath, knowing that if he was indeed correct, he was about to go to sleep for a very long time.
Not knowing what the outcome would be, and possibly losing Emma forever, or worse, losing himself completely. ''I'm sorry. I do hope you find happiness, find your family, your home.'' He whispered and bit into the turnover, taking a few steps away from Emma.
''See. I told you, stop believing in childish stories. It's ridiculous. Now, give me my turnover.'' She rambled on but was quickly muted by the flutter of his eyes, followed by the collapse of his body hitting the floor. She ran over to Graham, holding his face in her hands.

''Graham, wake up, can you hear me? What did she do to you?''
Her eyes welled up with tears, and she held him close, not wanting to leave him alone. The Sheriff was gone, and it was all HER fault. Emma's mind was a jumble, and all she could think was that it was Regina who did this. She needed to get Henry and leave this place for good.

**
Glenn Forrester was digging through documents and folders that were spread out on the coffee table of his cabin in the woods. He preferred the quietness the forest brought, the smell of wood, and the more simple way of living. He never thought he would become a lawyer, despite him being a great defense attorney. He had always thought he would have been a great woodsman or something of the kind. Working in the great outdoors.
But after Marian's death, he needed to get a job so he could support Oliver, his son. So tonight Glenn was rummaging through the various notes he had taken throughout the years the strange things he had discovered and learned about Storybrooke.

Ever since Emma's arrival, he had noticed that things only kept getting stranger. Even Regina, the Mayor had been acting differently. She seemed scared of this woman, but why? He had gotten close to Regina over the years, after being hired by Mr. Gold a few years back, a part of their deal that Glenn thoroughly disliked. He was glad she never found out or even suspected him of anything.
Through the years of quietly gathering information, he didn't learn much about the town. He had not found any hidden details or secrets, but he had seen the softer side of Regina, a more vulnerable and loving side to her. It mostly came out when Henry was around, or even the few times she had interacted with his son, Oliver. He never would have guessed she had such a soft spot for children.

One thing is certain, he never thought even for a moment that a woman could be scared of anything or anyone, but this blonde, who appeared to have no history in this town, seemed to scare the living shit out of the powerful mayoress. He could understand the fear of the possibility of her son being ripped away from her, but it was more than that. This fear ran deep, and it was as though she was hiding something, something terrible. Trying to make sense of that fear, he skimmed for hours through the notes and tried comparing them to any information he could find on this Emma Swan...which was near nothing. He felt defeated, it was as if he was missing a piece of a puzzle, maybe she was that missing piece? The answer to his deal with Gold may finally be squared off.

Chapter Text

A knock on the door startled Glenn, and he jumped off the couch. He walked over to the door and swung it open, surprised to see who was on the other side. ''Emma? Henry? What are you doing here this late?"
''Henry, go back to the car. I need to talk to Mr. Forrester about my case.'' She lied.
Knowing Henry would not want her to leave. Truth was, she didn't want to go either, but she was scared, angry, and hurt.
He obeyed her and headed back to the yellow bug. Emma sighed, "We're leaving. I just wanted to come by to thank you, and to warn you to stay away from Regina.''
''What, why?''
''Graham's at the hospital, she poisoned him, Glenn. He ate a poisoned apple turnover and just collapsed. She did this, and I can't risk anything happening to Henry, or to your family. You've been nothing but kind to me and to Henry, and I don't want anything to happen to you, or Oliver. It's too dangerous.''
''You don't seriously think-''

Emma interrupted him. ''Yes, Glenn. I saw it with my own eyes. I can't stay. I don't want anything else to happen. I need to keep Henry safe. Please don't tell anyone I was here, and don't trust her. We need to get out of this crazy town. Goodbye, Glenn.''
''Emma, please, wait. You can't just take Henry away from her. I know she would never hurt him, he's her son, the only person that truly matters to her. Let me talk to her, I'm sure this is a misunderstanding. There has to be an explanation for Graham's collapse. It's probably just some heart condition.''
She scoffed. "You're delusional, she has something planned, and I won't be here for her next scheme. Just stay away from her, please.''
She walked towards her car and drove away from Storybrooke. Emma returns to her normal life, where she raises Henry and keeps him safe from Regina.

Glenn stood in his driveway, and a sudden cold breeze came through, and his mind was filled with confusion and conflicting thoughts. Could she have done something so horrible? He knew she could be brutal and cold at times, but a danger to Henry? Never had that thought crossed his mind.

**
Days had passed, and the news of Emma's departure had spread around town. Mayor's son kidnapped, could be read in the headlines of this week's journal. Regina had not been seen around since Emma and Henry had skipped town. She stayed at home alone, all she did was mourn the loss of her son. She had lost her only family, and no one could understand how heartbroken she was.

The worst part was the guilt, knowing he had left because of her actions. Things had not gone as planned, she had hoped the blonde would be the one to consume the turnover and not the stupid Sheriff. The last thing she had heard, was that the man was now in a coma, and no one could figure out what happened to him. The doctors could not find a medical explanation for his unconscious state, and all Regina could think about was that she had failed. She knew he was not dead, only under a curse. Well for now, with his only way out being true love's kiss but Regina could not tell Dr. Whale that bit of information.

Alone, broken, empty, sad. She was a shadow of her former self. Her anger and desire to take revenge against Emma Swan were all but a memory. All she wanted was for Henry, her little Prince return to her but she knew that was not possible. She had lost him just as she had lost everyone in her life before, and all that was left was an empty void in her heart. What was left for her to live for, a life without warmth, without family, without love is not a life worth living. Regina walked over to her fireplace took the framed picture of her and Henry, and held the frame close to her chest, and whispered. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry, Henry. My little prince, I didn't mean to hurt you. Please forgive me. I was just trying to protect you, my son. You were my everything, and I was so scared.''

Glenn stood behind her, watching her sob. He had never seen her cry. Now that she noticed him standing there idly, he could no longer keep his mouth shut. "Madam Mayor, I'm sorry to bother you, I know this is a very difficult time for you, and I'm truly sorry about Henry's... but Oliver wanted to bring you these.''
Oliver stood beside his father and handed her the bouquet of wildflowers he had picked on the way, and she managed a weak smile. "Thank you, Oliver. This was very sweet of you. Thank you, Glenn, for bringing him, but I wish to be left alone.''
Glenn could not leave her alone, not in this state.

"Pardon my asking, but are you sure you would not prefer some company? I have never seen you like this, and the whole town is worried. They have been asking for you, but no one has heard from you, not even a word. We all know this is hard on you, but there are many people here who care about you and want to help.''
"I said leave, Glenn, and take the boy with you, please." She snapped.
Oliver took a step forward and held her hand. "Don't cry, Madam Mayor. Henry will come back.''
She sobbed and held the little boy close, hugging him tightly. He returned the embrace, and Glenn looked down at the two, his heart warming at the sight of a smiling Oliver. He hadn't seen his son this happy since Marian's death. "Thank you, Oliver.''
The young boy kissed her cheek, and his father took his hand.

''Come on, buddy. We have to get going, let's leave Madam Mayor alone, as per her wishes and maybe we can bring her some food tomorrow?''
Regina nodded and closed her eyes, feeling a surge of warmth coming through her body. It had been ages since she had experienced such a feeling, and it was a relief to feel something, even if it was just a hint of happiness.

Glenn knew that small gesture, a simple nod. Allowing them both to return to check in on her was a good sign, a step in the right direction. He could see it, she was not a bad person. He saw it, the vulnerability, and the pain. She was no longer the evil queen, the tyrant. She was only a concerned parent, a woman who wanted nothing more than to love and be loved in return. His soul ached, and he desperately wanted to reach out and comfort her. But he would not press on and decided to respect her wishes.

Chapter Text

Glenn had one of his usual meetings with Gold, they had become rather frequent since the ''turnover'' incident a few days prior. Gold had the same suspicions about Regina being implicated in the attempted murder. Glenn knew this meant he would have to eavesdrop and try to pry out information on a very heartbroken Regina, and that pained him immensely.
"What can you tell me, about Emma's departure? Have you heard anything new?"
"The only thing I've learned is that the Sheriff is still in a coma. Dr. Whale informed me that he is alive but they don't know if he will wake up.''
"Well, that's rather unfortunate. We need to find out what Regina did to that poor man, and quickly I fear he may not have much time left. Maybe we can start by looking for Emma? She seemed to be getting rather close to Graham before the incident. If we find her, we may have a chance to wake him. What do you think, dearie?"
Glenn sighed.

He knew exactly where the blonde had run off to, but he was not going to betray Emma even if it meant getting Henry back home to Regina. ''Why would you think Emma could help him more than any medical professional?''
Gold smiled. ''Well, dearie. It's a complicated matter. Let's just say that the sheriff and Miss Swan have a history. You see, Emma could know something about Graham's medical history?''
Glenn stared at him blankly. "Are you suggesting they were involved in a romantic relationship?"
"Something of the kind. Now, Mr. Forrester. I know you have a way with Regina, she seems to open up to you more than others, so for now, find a way to get her talking. The faster, the better. We're running out of time.''
Glenn nodded. "I will try. But you have to know, I don't believe she had anything to do with the Sheriff's condition."
Gold scoffed at him, ''It matters not what you think, we have a deal remember.''
He gulped, his eyes wide with fear, and he could not bring himself to answer.

**
Glenn went to check on Regina, but as he was approaching the house, he could see the front door open, and he quickly ran over. He could hear the sound of shattering glass, and the screams and cries. His heart stopped as he entered the mansion, and found Regina surrounded by the remnants of a shattered vase. He approached her slowly and spoke softly, ''Madam Mayor?''
Her eyes were filled with rage and sorrow, and her skin was stained by the tears she had shed. "I need to find Henry!"
He shook his head and reached out his hand. "Please, come with me, sit down for a moment. Let's talk about this."
"I can't just sit around and do nothing! We need to find him and bring him back home.'' She replied dryly.

''You know it's dangerous to leave Storybrooke, everyone who has tried to has never succeeded. I'm so sorry, Regina. I don't know what else I can do.''
She sighed and leaned into his touch, and he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. She was no longer crying, comforted by his warmth, and it made her feel a little less lonely. Allowing herself to be human for just a moment. Glenn on the other hand was a bit startled by her reaction, as she usually avoided contact and intimacy. But it seemed as though she needed it now. He could sense the change in her demeanour and her vulnerability.

At that moment, she was no longer the Queen, she was just Regina, and all she needed was someone to hold her. She pulled away abruptly, almost as if she had realized what she was doing. Immediately backing up, her mascara-smeared eyes darting to meet his gaze. "I'm sorry, this was inappropriate. Thank you, for coming here today, I will not be requiring your services anymore, please have a nice day."
"Regina, wait. Don't shut me out. I know you're going through a lot, but please, you don't have to do this alone. I know we haven't always seen eye-to-eye, and I know you're a tough woman, but I can help you. I know grief, I know the pain of losing someone close to you.''
"That is the problem, Glenn. Everyone is taken from me. Everyone who has ever cared, everyone who has shown kindness and warmth. Everyone I've ever loved is gone, and now, my son, my little prince is gone, too. It's all my fault.''

''What's happening is horrible Regina, I understand that but I truly believe that Henry will come back. He loves you too, you know.''
She smiled weakly and shook her head, ''You don't understand, no one does. You can't...''
''What do you mean? Please, Regina, let me help you. Why can't anyone else understand? What are you hiding?''
She sighed and her eyes fell, as she tried to hide her pain. She knew that she was not the only one who was hurting, they all were. She had cursed them all to this place. A place where they would all forget, their stories, their loved ones. This was her fault, she had doomed them all.

"You will never understand, no one will, no one can. I paid my price.''
Glenn was taken aback, confused. "Price? What are you talking about, what price?"
"You have to go, Glenn. Please, don't ask any more questions."
Glenn sighed. "I won't push you. But I hope you know you can trust me, and that I'm here for you."
She smiled weakly, and he headed for the door, glancing back one last time. He could not get the image of a distraught Regina out of his mind. The sight of her, vulnerable, hurt, and so desperate, had him worried, and he hoped that Gold would not press him too much on the matter. Pushing the thoughts away, he knew he needed to find a way to find Emma and Henry, and fast.

It was no longer about fulfilling his promise to Gold, and the deal, it was about doing what was right. He wanted to believe in Regina and give her the benefit of the doubt, but Gold's suspicions and concerns started to grow in him, and he could not ignore that she was indeed hiding something about Storybrooke.

**
That night Glenn called Henry while he sat at the Rabbit Hole, not expecting him to answer. Knowing Emma would not allow him to but to his surprise, the boy replied. "Hello?'' His tone hushed.
Glenn spoke. "Henry, I need you to listen to me. It's really important. Where are you?"
"I-I can't tell you. What's going on?''
"Henry, you have to get back to Storybrooke. Think you can manage to get yourself here on your own?''
"No, no. My mom won't bring me back.''
"I didn't say anything about Emma bringing you here, your mother, Regina. She needs you here.''
"No, she doesn't. She's the Evil Queen, and she's a monster. She lied, and she hurt people."

Glenn knew it was a stretch, but he would try to convince Henry to return even if it meant lying about believing in his fairytale delusions. "Henry, she loves you, and I think you do too. We need Emma to come back to Storybrooke, you know she is the only person who can break this curse.''
"Really, how do you know?''
"I believe you. I believe you, Henry. I know you're telling the truth. We can save everyone, Henry. I promise I will do everything I can to make sure no one else gets hurt, but you need to trust me and return to Storybrooke, tonight!''
Henry paused for a moment, and the line went dead. Glenn cursed under his breath. He dialled the number, and it rang, but no one answered. He could only hope that Henry would listen and return to town as he had asked him to.

Glenn was determined to keep his word. He knew it would be hard, especially with Gold and Regina's conflicting demands, but he would try his best. Regina would have Henry back, and Emma would return as well to retrieve Henry, only for Gold to settle whatever he needed to with her. Gold would no longer be his problem, Glenn could finally live his life deal-free. "Glenn, is everything alright?'' Her voice startled him.
He had not noticed that Regina had walked over, a glass of cider in her hand. Her eyes were bloodshot, and she had obviously been drinking for a while. He sighed. "You're here. I thought you said you wanted to be alone.''
"Well, I was, until I noticed I didn't have any alcohol left in my cabinet at home. So, I decided to come here. It's a shame I have to deal with that incompetent barkeep, but the alcohol is quite good."
Glenn nodded, "I find alcohol always tastes better with company. Care to take a seat?"
She hesitated, looking at him skeptically.

He motioned for her to sit, and she complied. ''This doesn't mean anything, Glenn. You're still not getting a raise.''
He chuckled. "Of course, Madam Mayor."
Regina raised a brow. "Do you believe him? That I'm the Evil Queen?"
Surprised, or perhaps perplexed by her question, he replied. ''Like from the fairytale books I read to Oliver? Of course not, and if you were to be a character from one of those books, I don't believe you would be a villain. Your love for Henry is too pure. Henry is very lucky to have you as a mother.''
She smiled and downed the last of her drink. "Thank you, Glenn.''
But all she could think deep down was that if he only knew the truth, he would simply run away from her.

A silence grew between the two of them, and they both seemed to be lost in their own thoughts. Regina had no idea what she was doing. She felt so drawn to him, unable to fight the pull. It was something about his warm smile and his soft eyes. The way he never judged her, despite seeing her at her worst a few too many times. Who knew way too much about her, yet he always came back to help whenever he was able to. She could tell he too had been hurt and broken once by the way he seemed to understand her pain. But his strength, his ability to move on and not let his past drag him down, and still be a good man, and a good father was inspiring. She did not know why, but she felt safe around him, and it was a feeling she had not felt in a very long time.

Before she knew what she was doing, she noticed her hand was lying flat on the back of his. Her eyes flickered up to meet his, a spark, a jolt of electricity travelling between the two of them. She knew she should move, pull away. But something was stopping her, holding her back. The look in his eyes was comforting and reassuring. It was almost like an understanding between the two. ''Why are you so kind to me?'' She asked softly.
He smiled. ''You've shown nothing but kindness to Oliver and myself. I just wish others could see you as I do, the way Henry sees you. You deserve a chance you're a good person, Regina. I can see it. I believe in you. I wish you could see it, too.''
She was overwhelmed by his words. Tears threatened to roll down her cheeks, and she looked down, unable to contain the emotions. Glenn reached out his hand, lifting her chin and caressing her cheek.

His touch was so gentle and so warm. ''Hey, hey. I don't mean to make you cry. I just want you to know, you're not alone. I'm here for you and soon Henry will be here too.''
Regina smiled softly, her hand meeting his. Her skin was so soft, and the feeling sent chills down his spine. Beautiful, he had always thought she was beautiful but right now in this raw, sincere moment, he thought she was the fairest of them all. ''No, I'm not upset. Sorry, I'm just not used to hearing such things.''

How is Graham, any updates?'' He asked hesitantly.
Regina looked down at her lap, and she shook her head. "Nothing has changed. He is still unresponsive, but alive. Dr. Whale is running some tests, trying to find out what is wrong with him. He doesn't seem to have a heartbeat, but he is somehow breathing.''
"Do you have any idea what could be wrong with him?"
"Honestly, I wish I knew. This whole thing has just been a mess. I can't help but blame myself.''
A half-truth, she did not want him to know the full extent of what had happened, but she also wished she knew more about how to get out of this ridiculous mess.

Glenn took her hand. "Don't beat yourself up, it will be okay. I won't allow for any accusations to be made, without any evidence.''
She smiled appreciating his help, but deep down she knew it was not deserved. She was guilty after all. Glenn and Regina continued to talk, and soon, it was late. The last two left at the bar, neither wanting to leave. The warmth, the comfort of one another was intoxicating. But it was growing late, and the two knew they should head home. Regina stood, and Glenn followed her outside. She turned, smiling at him. "I can't thank you enough, Glenn. For everything. I appreciate you helping me."
Glenn shook his head. "Don't mention it, it's the least I could do."
Regina pulled him into an embrace, and Glenn could not believe the sudden shift in their relationship. The tenderness and vulnerable side of the Mayoress was more than welcomed. ''Henry will be back sooner than you can imagine but for tonight I wish you goodnight, Regina.''
''Goodnight, Glenn.''
His eyes were glued to her as he watched her walk away, her hips swaying side to side.

She glanced back over her shoulder, catching his eye and giving him a sly smirk. ''I said goodnight, Mr. Forrester.'' She teased, looking away as she made her way home.
Each click of her heel on the pavement matched the beat of his heart. Despite the few too many drinks she had had, she still walked with such confidence, such grace and definitely full of power. He swore she carried herself like a Queen.

Chapter Text

The day finally came, Henry was to come back to town today. Glenn had called Regina to tell her to get ready, that he would pick her up and wait at the town line for him to cross it.
As they sat in Glenn's car, he could tell Regina was nervous, she was checking in the mirror every few minutes to see if her hair was still in place, and if her red lipstick was still stamped on her lips. Her eyes kept shifting from the town line, back to the mirror, then towards Glenn. Always looking away when he turned to look at her in return.
He could see her knee bouncing and her hands shaking slightly. It was a strange sight, considering she was usually so calm, cool, and collected. But he supposed losing your son would make anyone uneasy.

"He will be here, don't worry," Glenn assured.
"I hope you're right. I just can't help but worry that he won't want anything to do with me. I'm the reason they ran away.''
"You can't blame yourself, Regina. Henry will understand, and if not now, eventually. Just give him some time. You're his mother, and he loves you. It will be okay."
Time ticked by slowly. Glenn had to admit, he was starting to get worried as well. It was getting late. He hoped Henry had not been caught trying to sneak away or had simply decided not to come on his own accord. But his worries were washed away as soon as he saw the familiar yellow bug in the distance, speeding directly towards them. Regina sat up straight, eyes glued to the approaching car.
''He came!'' Regina said in an excited but hushed tone.
The car whizzed next to theirs, coming to an abrupt stop only a few feet past the town line.

Henry got out of the car so fast that Glenn was pretty sure, he had not even taken the time to put the car in park. That was the least of Regina's worries, all thoughts tossed out, she jumped out of Glenn's car and ran over to her son. Running towards each other as she caught him in her arms, holding him tightly in her embrace. She kissed his head, pulling away to cup his face, smiling down at him. "Henry, I missed you so much.'' Her eyes watered.
"I missed you too, Mom." He smiled.
"Oh, Henry, I'm so sorry for everything. Please forgive me. I am going to do better, be better. I promise." She said, pulling him into another hug.
Henry looked at Glenn, who nodded back at the boy. Reassuring the boy that she was truly trying to change for the better. "It's okay, Mom. We will figure it all out. You'll see, we can fix all of this together."
Glenn smiled, knowing he had done the right thing.

Even though he had done all of this for Regina, he knew that it meant he was playing right into whatever scheme Gold had planned. It would also mean that Glenn would no longer be indebted to the awful man, thus freeing Oliver and himself from the situation they currently live in. Being a mere pawn for the most feared man in Storybrooke. ''What do you say we head back to your mom's house and talk things through?''
The three walked back over to Glenn's car. Getting in and driving back into Storybrooke.

**
Back at the Mayor's Mansion, they all sat at the dining table enjoying a plate of Regina's famous lasagna, which also happened to be Henry's favourite. She smiled, after every hum that followed him taking another delicious bite of what she knew ''her son'' loved. "I'm sorry I left, mom." He said it with such guilt that it sent a pang straight to Regina's heart.
How could he think he had anything to be sorry about? He had done no wrong. He had not abandoned her, he had been taken from her. She was not able to protect him. He did not owe her anything, she had failed him.

"You have nothing to apologize for, Henry. I am the one who's sorry. I should have told you the truth about your adoption a long time ago, but I was afraid you would not love me anymore."
"But why wouldn't I love you? I loved you, even when I knew you we're you know-'' Catching himself before divulging the true reason behind his return to Stroybrooke. To break this curse.
"Don't mumble Henry, it's not polite. Now tell me, you have nothing to be afraid of sweetheart.'' The way she could go from demanding to sweet was a rather scary thing.
His eyes darted to Glenn, ''I...''
Regina's expression hardened as she noticed her son glance over to the man sitting to her lefthand side. ''Perhaps Mr. Forrester and myself could have a word with you in the corridor?''

He obeyed her request for a word, following her back to the corridor just outside the dining room. Her eyes narrowed as she asked him to, ''Speak.''
''I uh-, may have told the boy that I believe in the stories from the book...that I believe in the curse and that Emma, the Saviour must come to break it...and that, uh...You're the Evil Queen.''
She huffed, ''Why? Why would you tell him that?''
''Well seeing that you were so upset about him leaving, I had to find a way to bring him back here, to you...I must add that I told him you were willing to change, to help us break the curse even.''
She laughed, ''And here I thought he chose to come here. Paint me a fool. You can leave.''
She turned away from him, looking back from over her shoulder. ''Give my remarks to Gold, dearie.''
His heart started beating like it was going to burst out of his chest, how did she know? Had she known all along?

''Madam Mayor, I-''
She raised her hand, cutting him off. ''Don't even bother, I already know. Now get the hell out of my house!'' She screamed.
Why hadn't she told Gold a long time ago, if she knew about his snooping around her office and the phone call he had made? Why not turn him in a long time ago and have him removed from his post and position in the town? Why not have him thrown in a jail cell, or perhaps even just have him killed? He could not wrap his mind around it. His feet carried him out the door, into the cold night air as thoughts swirled in his mind. She sighed, making her way back to the dining room where her son waited for her to return. She hoped he had not heard their entire exchange.

''Everything okay, Mom?''
Regina smiled. ''Yes, everything is fine, darling. Mr. Forrester had to leave, he needed to get back home to his son.''
''Oh, did he say anything about our plan?''
''What plan would that be, dear?'' She asked, raising a brow.
''About the curse and saving everyone and breaking the spell?''
"That is a very complicated topic, and it's getting rather late. Perhaps, we can discuss that in the morning. Why don't you go up and wash up, and I will join you in a few minutes."
''Okay...'' Henry agreed reluctantly, not really understanding why his mother would want to wait if she wanted to change like Glenn had said she would. Would not the first thing to do be to discuss the curse and how they would break it?

Henry did not argue, he made his way up to his room. She joined only a few minutes later to tuck him in as she did every night. She kissed his forehead, brushing his hair aside and giving him a smile. "Goodnight, my little prince. Sleep tight. I love you."
''Mom?''
''Yes, Henry?''
''What will you do when Emma returns?''
A frown spread across her face, ''Emma?''
"Yes, she will surely come back to find me. She is the Saviour after all."
"I'm afraid you're wrong, dear. The Saviour is only a character in your book. It's just a fairytale, Henry."
"Glenn believes, and so do I."
"Don't worry, I will deal with him. Now, close your eyes and get some rest."
''I knew you were not ready to change. You will always be the Evil Queen.'' He said barely above a breath.
"What was that?''
"Nothing..."
She did not buy his ''nothing'' but let it go, deciding to address the issue in the morning. She left his room, turning off the light.

**
Glenn was sitting in his car, heavy rain plunked on the top of the car as he pondered. Should he go back inside and try to get Regina to understand why he did what he did or should he simply tell Gold the truth? No wonder he had never found anything incriminating on the Mayor, she had known about his snooping around from the beginning. How was it even possible for her to find out, he had always been so careful. And why had she continued the charade?
He sat for hours, the rain only growing heavier, the wind whipping the trees, leaves blowing past. No decision seemed to be better than another. Either would have crushing repercussions.
As if the weather could sense the inner turmoil within him. He sighed, deciding that the only way to truly be free of his debt would be to tell Mr. Gold the truth. That was his decision, and it would have to be good enough.

Chapter Text

Glenn finally mustered up enough courage to turn on the ignition and drive to the pawnshop. Stopping abruptly, slightly past a house further down the road, catching Regina rushing out her front door and getting in her car in a hurry. Where could she be going at this time? His curiosity got the best of him. Before he noticed what he was doing, he followed her through the streets of Storybrooke, keeping a few cars away so as not to raise suspicions like he had seen in a few action movies.

She parked the car, got out and walked towards... Gold's shop. ''Shit, shit, shit.'' He said to himself.
She could not be the one to tell Gold about their conversation. How could he have not seen this coming? Glenn got out of his car, running to catch up to her before she went in. But Regina had already disappeared into the building. ''Shit.'' He repeated as he reached for the handle, pushing the door open and entering the dimly lit store.
The pair turned around, surprised by the sudden intrusion. "Glenn, I was just about to inform Mr. Gold of our little conversation with Henry back at my place. Or would you rather do the honours?"
Gold looked at Regina, then back at Glenn. "What is this conversation she is speaking of?"
Glenn did not answer. His heart thumping fast in his chest. She wouldn't dare, he thought to himself. Contemplating the worst-case scenarios.

Regina's face turned red, and her tone turned harsh, "Fine, remain quiet. I will tell him.'' She said to Glenn before continuing. ''He told Henry that he believed the stories from his book. Had him believe in that Saviour, magic and curses to be broken.''
''Well, it's just make-believe, no harm done, dearie.'' He laughed it off.
''Cut the crap Gold, I kno-'' She stopped herself, realizing she could not blow her cover.
Not in front of Glenn, although she was mad at him she could not admit to the truth of who she was. That it was indeed all real. But she did need to get Gold talking, to find out why he had Mr. Forrester snooping in on her affairs and why he wanted Henry and Emma to return. Why did he want the curse to be broken?

"Why are you having him spy on me? What is the real reason he is here?" She demanded. Diverting from their previous subject swiftly.
"I don't know what you are referring to, but he has no purpose other than to look after the well-being of Storybrooke, as your defence attorney Madam Mills. He needs to know about the goings-on in this town. If Mr. Forrester has been snooping in other more personal matters, it's got to be by his own accord."
''Oh come on Gold. I know you want the cur-...I mean, let's move on. Why do you want Emma to return here so badly? What can she offer you that you don't already have? This town has given you everything. Money and power.''
"What is it exactly you want to know?" He asked, very well knowing her true question.
"Let's not do this in front of Mr. Forrester. I don't believe this concerns him any longer. You know what I am asking and I am certain you will like what I have to offer in exchange for your truth."
Glenn stood still, unable to process the exchange happening right in front of him. What could she not want him to know? He was very much involved and that from the very beginning of this whole mess.

Gold eyes cast towards Glenn and back to Regina. ''What could you offer me, dearie?'' He chuckled. Amused at what she could possibly even have to offer.
Without skipping a beat, Regina pulled out a red velvet bag, plunged her hand inside and pulled out an antique blue and white tea cup. It had a small chip on the side. Rumple's eyes widened, and he reached out for the cup. ''Where did you?''
Regina pulled back from his reach and pushed the cup back into the velvet pouch. ''Ah ah ah. Not how this deal works, first he leaves and we talk. Then you can get it back.''
Rumple's eyes were glued to the pouch. Glenn noticed tears forming in his eyes. His normal strong and cold expression faded into a softer almost deflated form of the man he had come to know.

Glenn's voice broke the tension between them, ''Can someone please explain what the hell is going on?!''
Gold shook his head, "There is nothing for you to know, dearie. You may take your leave, Mr. Forrester.''
Glenn knew this wasn't over. He didn't want to leave without answers on their dealings, but a pull from inside him was begging him to leave. Forcing him to move his feet towards the door...why was it that he obeyed Gold's every request and command? It was the same as being under a spell, one which he could not shake. He hated it. Regina's eyes followed him as he exited the shop, her brows furrowed. She found it strange that Glenn had gone so willingly, despite the fact that she could sense the confusion and anger radiating off him. He was usually such a strong, determined man. She wondered why he would give up so easily.

Her attention turned back to Gold after Glenn had left. Who just stood there staring at her with his arms crossed, a wicked grin spread across his face. ''What are you smiling about? Did you forget that I still have your precious little trinket? Now tell me what I want to know!'' She smirked, waving the bag in his face.
His grin grew wider, and he shook his head, ''Do you truly believe, you are the only person with leverage in this situation?''
''What do you mean?''
Gold laughed. ''You may have something that belongs to her. But didn't it seem strange that poor Mr. Forrester just went home so quickly, after I simply asked him to?''
Realization hit Regina. Rumple had enchanted him somehow. But how could he have? Regina had watched him the entire time. He hadn't had anything, and she had even taken the liberty of having Sidney Glass spy on Glenn, to ensure that he was a trustworthy ally. But clearly, she had underestimated her opponent, and it was going to be her downfall, once again.

Gold broke their shared silence, after watching her torment herself for a few moments. ''You see, I needed someone powerful, someone I could easily manipulate, someone who sought revenge so strongly it would blind them to the full truth. And that dearie is when I met you, that day you called on me from your mother's spell book. Oh but little did you know your dark curse, was only a temporary fix to your Snow White problem, I never meant for this curse to remain forever. The curse was always meant to be broken, by the Saviour so that one day I may be reunited with my son, Baelfire.''
He stepped forward, but Regina remained frozen in place. His voice grew darker, "My plan was indeed perfect, and you were such an obedient girl. All the pieces were falling into place until a pesky thief allowed my beautiful Belle to escape."
Regina scoffed, "And why is that a problem?''
''Because she's dead now, dearie. Threw herself off the balcony of her room after her father shunned her for falling in love with a man, a monster like me.'' Tears threatened to fall from his eyes.

Regina laughed at his misery. ''What a sad story but you know I can't allow for this curse to be broken. They will have me killed if their memories are returned. They will remember all the bad things I did and kill me, and Henry will hate me forever." Her facial expression returned to a much more stoic state.
"Here's the thing dearie, Mr. Forrester's fate lies in your hands.'' Gold retorted.
''Why do you think I care what happens to that fool? He doesn't want anything to do with me, nor do I. Plus he smells of forest.''
"Oh, I'm quite aware that you've grown fond of him. His little boy too. It's quite amusing really, the Evil Queen caring about others."
Regina sneered. ''Don't be ridiculous. You know love is not in the cards for the Evil Queen.''

Gold snickered at her last remark. "I think you know as well as I that your feelings stem from more than the small moments you've shared here in Storybrooke. I may have had a few words with a tinker fairy back in the Enchanted Forest. She was very helpful in helping me ensure you would cast this curse, without distractions. She made sure a certain thief and his son would not be an issue before the curse was cast. But that tricky fairy failed to mention that she had made sure he would come along to Storybrooke with everyone else. When I saw him wandering down the streets, that first week after the curse, I knew I had to make sure he wouldn't get in the way of my plans, so I offered him a deal. He was to relay any and all information about you back to me and I would in return help him and his boy with lodging. Renting my cabin in the woods, free of charge. I must say it was rather easy getting him to abide by my every request. His love for his son made enchanting him, child's play. And that Regina, is the difference between a powerful sorcerer, like myself, and a novice such as yourself."
Regina was speechless. What was he implying?

''But how did you enchant him here? Unless...You have the ability to use magic here in Storybrooke, don't you?''
He laughed. "Magic is here, it's always been. Just a little harder to get your hands on. I guess you could say, I was lucky I saved up for a rainy day.''
"And what are your plans with Mr. Forrester and his son, now that his cover is blown.'' She tried not to show emotion.
"Oh, you will find out soon enough, dearie."
The pit in her stomach grew, she could not let him die as Daniel did. No matter, if Gold was telling the truth about it all. Glenn had always been a good friend to her here in Storybrooke. He had always seen the best in her. Even in her worst moments. He saw the best in her, always. Despite never having met the man in the tavern, she would be happy if they were truly one and the same... "What if I were to tell you that I could help you break this curse? Trade in my help for their freedom. Do we have a deal?''
He laughed in victory. ''We've got a deal. You really should have listened to your mother's advice, Love is Weakness, dearie.''
She rolled her eyes, placed the pouch in her purse and walked out of the shop.

Regina sat in her Mercedes, staring at the door of Gold's shop. What had just happened? It was a lot to process. Her head ached, and her heart was pounding. She had never met her supposed soulmate back in the Enchanted Forest, back when Tinkerbell had taken her to meet him at the tavern. Could Glenn really be that same man or was Rumple just messing with her head, to get her to do what he wanted? What had she just agreed to? She shook her head, starting the car and driving home.

Her heart sank as she reminded herself that even if it was truly the man with the lion tattoo, Tinkerbell had told her about years ago. Here, he would not believe anything she would say about their past if they remained cursed. And he would definitely not want to be with The Evil Queen if they did break the curse. She had a lot of blood on her hands. She knew she was not worthy of such a love, the kind she read about in Henry's book. But Glenn and Oliver deserved their happy ending, and that didn't include her. She couldn't bring herself to ruin another life. She would break the curse, for Henry, Glenn and Oliver. And she knew exactly how to do so. Her tires screeched on the pavement as her destination changed to her vault. She was ready to face whatever punishment the people of Storybrooke wanted to unleash on her. Her mother had been right all along, Love is Weakness. It surely was hers.

Chapter Text

Regina had driven straight to her vault, rummaging through every box and shelf looking for the scroll Rumple had used to create the curse. It had to be here somewhere, she had kept it safe. Not even Gold knew where she had hidden it. One positive thing she learned from her mother was not to trust anyone, especially Rumple.
Regina had finally found the scroll tucked away inside an old shoe box, amongst Henry's various drawings she had saved over the years. She held it up, the bright light illuminating the room. This was the answer, the end of this road.
She was finally ready to make amends for all the wrongs she had done. To pay for her crimes and her sins. She was ready to sacrifice her life if it meant the ones she loved would be safe.

A huff of breath escaped her lungs as she closed her eyes and whispered, ''You were right Henry, I had happiness and I threw it all away.''
Holding the scroll in one hand and the piece of paper in the other. Regina stared at the piece of parchment as she slowly ripped it from the barrel. ''This is for you, Henry. I love you'' she whispered to herself.
The scroll was no longer one, the paper slowly falling to the ground, fluttering. A bright light consumed the vault, and Regina's body started shaking. It felt like a current was running through her veins. The curse was breaking. Magic was returned to this land but she wasn't sure what would happen to her and this whole town if she was being honest. But she did as she said she would.

**
David was sword fighting with a knight dressed in black armour whilst holding a baby tightly to his chest. Running into a nursery, opening a small door in a carved tree and placing the baby girl inside. Light enveloped the room. ''I'll always find you, my little girl.''
Emma woke with a start, panting heavily and a slight headache. The stories and the memories all rushed in like a flood. Her heart was racing and a few tears formed in the corner of her eyes. She knew who her parents were, they hadn't abandoned her like she had always believed. The only reason her father had to put her through the wardrobe, was to protect her from the curse. And now, her son was in that very town with that same woman who had cursed them all.

''It was all real.'' Emma shook her head. Emotions overwhelmed her, as did her memories.
She was Snow White and Prince Charming's daughter, the product of true love.
As if on cue her phone rang and Henry's name appeared on the screen. She answered. ''Henry, where are you? Are you ok?''
''I'm okay, I'm in Storybrooke. You have to get here quickly, the curse is broken and we can't find my mom.''
''Okay, I'll be there as soon as possible.''
Emma put on her red leather coat, got in her yellow bug and drove off with lightning speed back to Storybrooke, they needed their Saviour.

**
Back in Storybrooke, the people gathered in front of city hall trying to find lost loved ones. Memories having returned, the people were in a frenzy. David and Mary Margaret having found each other for the umpteenth time, tried to help keep the peace.

A few townsfolk started chanting, Kill the Queen!'' David stepped up onto the stairs and raised his voice, ''Quiet! Everyone, calm down! Let's talk about this rationally. No one is going to kill anyone. We need to find Regina and figure out what happened, and then we can decide on a proper course of action.''
"Yeah, we're not the kind of people who just execute others, no matter how much they deserve it. That's not how we do things around here." Mary Margaret added, trying to keep the peace.
Their attempts to disarm the angry crowd were not successful.

"We have the right to justice!" A tall man said.
"Regina has taken so much from us! It's time she pays for her crimes." Another man replied.
"Yeah! Justice!" A woman in the crowd added.
"You're right, you have every right to justice, and I promise that's what you'll get, but killing her would not solve our problems. It would only instill hate and more suffering in all of our hearts. It would make us the villains, and we are the heroes." Snow said, still trying to calm the crowd in front of her.
It seemed to be working, her people started to simmer down, until a calm but commanding voice rang through from the back of the crowd, ''Perhaps death is exactly what she deserves for all the terrible things she has done. The people should have the final say, don't you say, dearies.''
The crowd regained passion after Gold's words added fuel to the fire.

They started to move down the streets, chanting Kill the Queen. Henry pleaded for the Charmings to help stop the crowd. He knew Emma was on the way, but she wouldn't arrive in time to find Regina. So he thought about the only person he knew who believed that Regina could change, that she had good in her. Glenn Forrester, otherwise known as Robin Hood, leader of the Merry Men.

Chapter Text

Glenn was at home with Oliver when a blast of white light hit the house. Like many others, their memories returned to them, their past lives flooding back. He remembered everything. His adventures with Little John and the rest of their band of Merry Men, his love for his late wife Marian and a deal he had made with the horrible beast known as Rumplestiltskin.
His eyes moved to his son, Roland playing with his toys. Seemingly unbothered by the return of his memories, then again he was so young and so innocent.
The poor boy could not know the truth about his father, know that he had failed him and Marian, the one person he swore he would always protect. He was not the man he had remembered himself to be, he had not been a hero. He was nothing but a coward who thought a deal would solve all of his problems. Not the Robin Hood they all remembered.

A knock at the door interrupted his solemn thoughts. Glenn opened the door, finding a distraught Henry Mills, standing with David and Mary Margaret. "Glenn, thank god. Come with us, we have to find Regina, they are trying to kill her." Henry begged.
Glenn's eyebrows furrowed in confusion, why were they asking him? Mary Margaret sighed, "Henry said that you two had become rather close and he believes you may know where to find her. He believes you are the one who can help save her.''
"But I'm not who you think I am, I'm not the Robin Hood from your stories. I'm a failure and a coward. I failed my family. I can't save her." He responded, his eyes tearing up.
"You are the only one who can," Henry responded. "I may not have known Robin Hood but I knew Glenn Forrester and he was the only person to believe that there was good in her when everyone else didn't. Even I doubted her... He, well you are the only person she's opened up to and you showed her that love and happiness are possible. She changed because of you. She needs you."

He had never truly found happiness with another woman since the passing of his beloved wife. That was until a certain Mayor had entered his life. Even though his memories of her were not as they were now, he had grown to care for her, the real her. He had been attracted to her, but could she love a thief? No matter, she needed his help and he would be there for her. Glenn sighed, "Fine, let's go. I know where we can find her.''
''We'll track down the angry crown and keep them busy whilst you make your way to her, but do so rather quickly...it won't be long until they find out where the Evil-er Regina is.'' Mary Margaret added as they made their way down the streets to find Regina, in haste.

**
Robin and Henry made their way to the Mills' crypt, she would surely be hidden in her vault. A place Glenn had been once before, a place he knew she would be able to find magic to defend herself if she needed to. Robin pushed the heavy stone door and made his way inside, as Henry followed closely behind. ''Regina? Regina, it's me Rob...Glenn.'' He continued to call out her name, but no response was heard.

Pushing the heavy stone coffin into the middle of the crypt, as he had done once before to reveal the stairs to Regina's vault. Henry ran down as soon as the stairs were visible, yelling out ''Mom'' a few times before Robin made his way down to meet him at the bottom of the steps. Henry stood very still with a piece of torn paper in his hands, silent tears streaming down his face. Robin stepped forward to read the words on the paper.
''DARK CURSE; Cast by a heart blackened by the sacrifice of one's true love. A price to pay, the curse must break in the presence of a saviour, the product of true love. If the caster brings the curse to an end, this will not be without consequence, for magic always comes with a price. One of a life filled with loneliness, solitude and regret for all the pain caused, in exchange for the lives of those who had their happy ending stolen. This price be paid by the caster, by simply breaking the scroll with the purest of intentions for the one with the blackened heart. -The Dark One.''

Regina's sacrifice had broken the curse but a curse had been set upon herself in return for breaking the latter one. A curse with a fate worse than death. A fate that would cause her a lifetime of regret, loneliness and suffering. Robin's heart sank, where could she have gone? Why would she do this when a bright and happy future could have been possible for her...for them? Chants could be heard from a distance, growing louder as they were approaching the vault. They had come looking for the Queen.

Robin made his way up with Henry to face them, to tell them what Regina had done to save them. What she had sacrificed to ensure they would regain their memories and find their happy endings. He stood with his chin high, his heart beating rapidly, as the group grew closer and stopped in their tracks as soon as they saw him. The chanting stopped, Dr. Whale who seemed to be leading this buffoonery, looked confused. ''Where is she? Why are you protecting her? Move out of the way thief, she needs to pay for this.''
Robin shook his head, ''There's no need for you to come in here, she's not here. She's not the person you believe her to be. She saved you, she saved all of you. The curse is broken because of her.''
Dr. Whale scoffed, ''You expect us to believe the Evil Queen, did this out of the goodness of her heart? Please that woman is evil to her core.'' Robin could feel the anger bubbling up inside him, ''The Evil Queen may have caused many atrocities in the Enchanted Forest and for that, she has paid today, as Regina. A woman who cared and loved her son so deeply that she decided to break the curse, knowing the price that had to be paid in return. She is not the monster you have seen her as she's a woman who has known a life full of loneliness and sorrow. A woman who finally opened up to someone, someone she thought could see her for who she really was, but even then she doubted that she was deserving of any love in return. Today, she has paid the price, the only price that could have broken the curse, the darkest of all curses. Her happy ending for all of yours. So go home, to your loved ones, your family. You claim to be heroes, but heroes don't seek revenge nor kill. Heroes forgive and have mercy. Regina gave you both.''
The crowd slowly dissipated after a few murmurs were shared amongst the lot of them.

As the last few townsfolk left the area, Robin took a deep breath and went to find Henry who had run back into his mother's vault. He was rummaging through the potions, the spell books and the magic trinkets. ''Henry, what are you doing?''
He turned to Robin, his eyes glistening, ''It's all my fault, I'm the reason she sacrificed herself...If I hadn't left, if I only believed in her...she wouldn't-she wouldn't...There has to be something here to save her. I have to find a way to get her back.''
Robin kneeled down next to the boy and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, ''Listen to me Henry, this isn't your fault. We are all to blame as another, but you have shown her nothing but love, and you have given her hope. Now we just need to figure out where she could have gone. There must be something here that can lead us to her.''
Henry's eyes landed on a sparkling blue potion on the top shelf, as he hugged Robin, ''Blue!''
Robin's brows furrowed, ''Blue? What can a colour do for us, mate?''
''No, the blue fairy. Maybe she could help us find her, she has helped my family before!'' Henry smiled.
Henry grabbed Robin's coat sleeve and hurried up and out of the vault. ''We're going to find your Mom.'' He yelled as they made their way out.

Chapter Text

Robin and Henry made their way to the convent to find Blue. Knocking on the door, it opened by the nun who had been kind to Roland the first time they had met a while back.
''Hello Sister Astrid, is Blue around? We really need to talk to her. It's about the curse being broken and...''
''I'm sorry but Blue has gone away for a while, something about having to leave Storybrooke. She will be back though, and I will tell her you're looking for her when she returns.''
''Leave Storybrooke, but how? Why must she leave?''
Astrid shrugged, ''I'm not too sure, she didn't say. I'm sorry, I wish I could be of more help. Perhaps, you could...oh no.'' She stopped.
Henry looked confused, ''What is it?''
''No, no it's not a good idea. I shouldn't...''
Robin cut her off, ''Astrid, please we have to find Regina before it's too late, if there is anything you can tell us, please tell us.''
''I saw her grab something from the locked closet in her office. I didn't think much of it, it was just a small pouch. But now that I think of it, it may have something to do with her leaving just as the curse broke. Maybe it was magic related.''
Henry smiled, ''I knew it. She knows something. Thanks, Astrid, and thank you for telling us. We're going to find her.''
''Please don't tell her I told you anything. I don't want any trouble.'' She crossed her arms and her gaze lowered to the ground. Quite obviously scared of the repercussions of her divulging information on her superior.
Robin placed a reassuring hand on her arm, ''We won't, you have our word. Thanks again for your help.''
Astrid smiled and closed the door.
Robin and Henry turned away and walked back to Mary Margaret's apartment to return Henry to Emma for the night.

On their way back, they passed in front of Gold's shop. Henry stopped in his tracks, his eyes glued to the display window. ''What is it, lad?''
''The mirror...the mirror! The Evil Queen's mirror, we can use that to find my mom.''
''How Henry? We don't have magic here.''
''But I bet Mr. Gold has some in his shop.'' Henry rushed into the shop, the bells ringing as the door opened.
''Henry, wait! Oh bollocks,'' Robin said as he ran in behind the boy, unable to stop him from bursting into the Dark One's antiquities shop.

Mr. Gold was standing behind the counter, looking at the various trinkets in his display case, when the two barged in. Robin cleared his throat, ''Erm, sorry to bother you. It's just...''
Rumple smiled, cutting him off, ''I told you we would be back here. You're here about dear old Regina, aren't you?''
Henry looked up, his eyes filled with hope. ''You know where she is?''
''I do indeed.''
''Please tell us. We have to find her, I-we-have to save her. Before it's too late, please Mr. Gold, help us save her.''
''Well, well, well, you're quite a loyal son, aren't you, dearie? I suppose I could tell you. But you should know that she left of her own free will, I didn't make her leave. She knew what had to be done to break the curse, and she did just that. The only way to break a dark curse is with a sacrifice of one's own happiness. I knew in the end she would not allow The Saviour to break the curse she had worked so hard to cast, so I instilled a small twist. A sort of failsafe. Regina tends to take the harder, more challenging path, doesn't she?'' Rumple smiled devilishly.

Henry's eyes widened, ''Why would you do that to her? She's the only one who is willing to break the curse. What's it to you if the curse was broken either way?'' His tone angered.
Robin placed a hand on the boy's shoulder, calming him down a tad. ''Now, now, lad. I'm sure there's a good explanation as to why. Isn't that right, Gold?''
Rumple chuckled, ''I guess there's no harm in telling you now. After all, it's over, isn't it? No need to hold back. When I created the dark curse, I made a deal with a certain individual who wanted the same thing as me. To be reunited with their child.'' He continued.
As the imp rambled on about the small details of his downright horrible plan to reunite with his son. Henry noticed a small velvet pouch on the small table in the backroom. Rumple gloated about his triumph over Regina, not even realizing Henry had snuck to pocket something from his collection. Robin listened to every detail so carefully that he never noticed Henry sneaking back to grab the bag, tucking it in his jacket pocket and walking back to his previous spot next to Robin.

''And so you see that's where you will find Regina, she's exactly where she belongs. It's quite ingenious, don't you agree?''
Robin's eyes widened, ''No...no it can't be. I won't let you, not this time. I will find her, even if it kills me. Do you hear me, Dark One, she will have a happy ending. If it's the last thing I ever do, I will give her that.''
Rumple chuckled, ''And how exactly are you going to find her, dearie? I don't see any magic trinkets, no potions or a magical wand to help you get her back. Nor will anyone want to help and bring the Evil Queen back. She's lost, dearie. Forever.''

Henry stood relatively calm next to Robin. As the exchanges kept getting more heated, he tugged down on Robin's sleeve. ''It's ok, she'll be okay. We'll find her, we're Heroes and Heroes always win.'' Henry pulled Robin out of the shop before things got out of hand.
Robin's fists were clenched tightly as they made their way out, he was livid and his heart felt like it was going to burst out of his chest. ''Henry, where are we going? He was about to give us more answers...I can tell he-''
Henry held his hand interrupting Robin, ''It's ok, Glenn. Look.'' Taking out the small pouch from his pocket.
''Is that the pouch Astrid saw Blue leaving the convent with?'' He asked. ''Yes, she must have been part of a deal with Gold. We can trust no one in this town, most of them are in debt to the Dark One. But he doesn't know we have this.'' His small fingers pulled out a glittery bean from the bag.
Robin gasped, ''Bloody hell, a magic bean. I thought they no longer existed. How did he get ahold of one?''
Henry shrugged, ''I have no idea, but we don't have time to ask around. This is our way of finding my mom.''
''You're a bloody genius. Now, how do we make it work if we don't have magic?''
Henry smirked, ''In the stories, magic was always around. It's all about belief, Glenn. If we believe hard enough, it will lead us to her. Meet me at the wishing well tonight, tell no one. They will not understand, and most will try to stop us. It has to be just the two of us. Can you do that?''
''Of course, I will be there.'' He nodded at the boy and walked him back home.
That night they would meet as they had planned, looking down at Storybrooke from the tallest hill where the wishing well stood.

**
Back at Mary Margaret's loft, Henry sat quietly at the kitchen table. Emma and Mary Margaret were sitting with him, discussing the events of the day and trying to figure out how and why Regina would have decided to sacrifice herself. But Henry was too concerned with finding a way to sneak out of there without being noticed. He needed to meet with Robin at the wishing well and he needed to get there very soon, Mr. Gold would soon realize the magic bean was no longer in his possession. Emma walked over and wrapped her arms around the young boy, ''Henry, are you alright? You seem a bit...preoccupied. I know today was a bit of a shock, and a lot has happened. But look what you did. We're all here together. Your Mom did the right thing.''
''The right thing? She's trapped somewhere all alone and suffering because of what she did. How is that the right thing? How can any of you say it's okay for her to be all alone and miserable? You're supposed to be heroes. Why are you not looking for her?''
Henry snapped at Emma, hoping to be sent to his room earlier than usual. He had no time to waste, he needed to go and meet with Robin.

Mary Margaret looked taken aback by Henry's words. He was right. Emma took a deep breath, ''Look kid, I know you're upset. But it's over, the curse has been broken, and we can all live happily ever after. Don't worry, she'll find her happy ending, too. Regina is strong, she'll be okay.''
Henry rolled his eyes and shook his head. His family were not the heroes the book made them out to be. Perhaps living in a land without magic had changed them. Emma continued, ''Come on, kid. Let's get you in bed. You had quite the day. We can talk more tomorrow, maybe even find a way to get her back, okay?''
Henry didn't argue, he allowed her to tuck him into bed. His plan would work. Tonight he would slip out, go to the wishing well, use the magic bean and go save his mom. Like a true hero would. He waited until they had fallen asleep. It was quite easy, as they had consumed a glass or two of red wine. The perfect opportunity to sneak out. He quietly put on his shoes, grabbed his backpack and a flashlight, with that Henry left making sure he did not forget the bean which he stowed in his pocket and of course his book of stories.

Once out of the loft, his feet quickened, running towards the well to meet with Glenn. It was very late, the streets were dark and quiet. He arrived at the hill where the well was, panting and breathing heavily, as the air was thin and cold. Glenn was already there waiting for the lad. He smiled, ''There ye are, mate. Are you ready?''
Henry took the bean out of his pocket and walked over to the edge of the well. ''Ready.'' He nodded as he threw the bean down the well, closing his eyes and letting his belief conjure magic and lead them to his mom.
''HENRY!'' Emma's voice echoed nearby. ''Henry, don't do this. Please, I don't want you to get hurt. It's too dangerous. We'll find your mom, but we need to do this the right way.''
She had followed him there.

Glenn looked at the boy, ''Henry, maybe she's right. I should do this alone, it's too dangerous. I can't risk you getting hurt, Regina would never forgive me if something happened to you.''
Henry's brows furrowed, ''I'm not staying. I'm coming with you, I'm not afraid.''
''Henry, I need to do this alone. I'm asking you to believe in me. I promise to bring her back.'' Glenn said genuinely.
Henry sighed, his eyes glistening and his voice breaking, ''Promise?''
''I swear on my life. I will bring her back home.''
Henry looked down, nodding. ''Okay...'' He made his way back to Emma, and she mouthed thank you.
''One last thing, please take care of Olivier. Tell him I will be back shortly.'' With that final exchange, Glenn turned back around and jumped into the portal.
Emma ran over to the edge and looked down, the portal had closed, and he was gone. ''He'll be okay, he has the book. It will help him find her.'' Henry said, trying to believe his own words. If Robin had been sent to a place meant to make Regina suffer for eternity, the chances of him finding her would not be an easy task. Emma sighed, ''Let's hope you're right. Come on, let's get you home.''
They walked back to the apartment, hoping for the best.

**
Regina woke to a place much too familiar to her, her parent's old estate. The large stone pillars, the large staircases and the heavy wooden doors. Nothing had changed from when she had been a child, the last time she remembered being here was after having married the King. The memories flooded back, the good and the bad Her childhood home had not always been a place of comfort or solstice, for her mother had almost made it a point to ensure Regina always knew she was not in control of her own life. Every miserable minute of it. She moved around the room slowly, taking in every small detail.

Catching a glimpse of herself in the bedroom mirror as she passed by it, she gasped. She could feel the tears welling up and her knees going weak. The blush blue riding coat, the light brown trousers and the coffee-colored knee-high boots. Her hair pulled back into a neat tress. Why was she wearing the same outfit as the day of Daniel's death? Her eyes flickered through the room, almost searching for a reason, an answer for the unease she felt as she gazed upon herself in the looking glass. It was then that she heard a knock on her door, and she rushed over to open it.

''Mother?'' Already short of breath, the sound of her mother's voice only added to the pit growing in her stomach.
''Regina, darling. What are you doing locked up in your room so late?''
Cora pushed past Regina, making her way into the room. Again, showing her daughter that she's the one who's in control. ''I-I was just getting ready. What are you doing here, mother?''
Cora raised a brow, ''What am I doing here? This is my home, Regina. Now, hurry along you have your last lesson with the horse boy before meeting with your future husband.''
Regina's eyes widened, her mouth opened and then shut. What husband? Last she remembered her mother had killed Daniel, before having her married off to King Leopold and he was long dead. Or so she remembered. So instead Regina remained mute, nodding her head and heading out to the stables.

Once she was outside, the air was crisp and the sun was shining. Her hand found the barn door and pulled it open, walking into the stables. She was met with Daniel, standing there as handsome and sweet as he had been that fateful day. ''Daniel?'' His name slipped out of her lips, breathlessly.
''Hey, beautiful. I've missed you.'' He walked over and wrapped her in a hug.
Regina pushed him away, her brows furrowed, and her hands shook as she spoke, ''No, you can't be here.''
His head tilted, his eyes never leaving hers. ''Regina, I don't understand. I'm here, in the stables as I am every day.''
''You can't be, this can't be. What's happening, Daniel?'' She could feel the panic rising, her breath quickening.
''Hey, it's okay. Breathe, love.'' He placed his hands on each of her shoulders.

''It must be my mother's doing. Tormenting me with visions of you. Oh, Daniel, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, I should have done something.'' Tears started to form in the corners of her eyes. She continued, ''I shouldn't stay here, you should leave too. Run far away.''
Daniel smiled, his thumb stroking her cheek wiping the tears from her face, ''Regina, what are you talking about? We have a plan, remember? We're getting married, eloping tonight.''
Her eyes widened, and she stepped back, her head shaking. ''No, we can't. My mother knows she'll...'' She can't finish her sentence, can't find it in herself to tell him what she knows is coming.

Regina's head started to spin, dark thoughts clouded her mind. Memories, painful ones taking up space in that hard head of hers. The same one that made all those mistakes, years ago. Costing his life and many many others. ''Perhaps, you should leave without me.'' Her heart breaks with every word coming out of her mouth, for she knows she won't see him again after this.
''Leave you? Why would I do that, Regina? I love you, I would never leave you. Especially not with your mother around. We're in this together, remember? We will run away together, far away from this place. I want you to be happy and to be free. Is that no longer what you wish to do?''
She wants nothing more than to have her life with Daniel, to run away and have a chance at a normal, happy life. But she also knows what will happen if they try, and her heart can't bear losing him again. ''I...uh.'' She exhales deeply.
Knowing she's about to crush his heart, but this way at least this way he'll be able to put the pieces back together. Live his life fully. Channelling the pain, the betrayal, the loss and the rage she had felt all those years ago. Regina looked him dead in the eyes, knowing she was not about to make the same mistake.

''No, I don't. My mother is right, I am to become Queen. Marry into royalty. I'm not meant to be some stable girl, running away and marrying a man below my rank. My mother knows what's best, I am meant for so much more than this. So, no Daniel, I do not wish to run away with you.''
Her lip quivered slightly. Almost giving her true feelings away. His face was stoic, he looked down and back up again. He sighed, ''Regina, please. Is this really what you want?''
Her jaw tightened, her lips pursed and her brows raised. Nodding, her eyes filled with tears. Daniel smiled weakly, his eyes saddened. ''I see, then there's no reason for me to be here. Goodbye, Reg- Milady.'' He bowed and moved to exit the barn, before turning and adding, ''I wish you great happiness, Milady. May you get all the things your heart desires, for your heart is pure and true. Any person would be lucky to have you.''
Regina stood there, frozen, watching him leave. Her heart was shattered into a million pieces watching him take the final steps out of the stables, but her mind knew that she had to do it. To spare him. He deserved better, a better life. One without her.

She allowed herself a few moments to cry, and let it out. Cleaning herself up and wiping off the salty tear marks that streaked down her cheeks, before making her way back to the chambers as per her mother's request. Her heart ached, and her soul felt empty. Being a Queen had never been something she had wanted, nor was it to be on the run from her mother for the rest of her life. Regina knew her mother would always find her, there was no escaping. This was the safer option, the one that would cause no harm to others. Only to herself, because she deserved it, didn't she. Punishment for the pain caused, punishment fit for a Queen.

Chapter Text

Regina stood in front of her mirror once more as the handmaid puffed her light ivory dress decorated with gold beads that trailed from the corseted bodice all the way down the full skirt. It was the perfect outfit to wear to meet her future husband, and she had chosen the perfect one, too. She knew how much he loved her in this colour, she remembered the way he had looked at her when they had met, his eyes landing on her plump breasts almost immediately and without shame when she caught him doing so.
The brunette had been so deep in her thoughts, that she never even heard her mother coming in before she was standing right in front of her.
''Regina, you're going to be late. You mustn't keep the King waiting.'' Cora stated.
Regina nodded, taking a deep breath. ''I'm ready, mother.''
This time she really would be ready for she knew what awaited her. No longer the innocent and scared girl. She would be a good obedient wife, and stepmother and perhaps have children of her own. Just as her mother always wanted her to be a Queen. An unhappy one at that, but a Royal nonetheless.

**
The women sat in the black velvet seats of their family carriage, ready to make their way to meet the King. Regina watched through the small window of the carriage as the trees that lined the forest pathways moved by rapidly. Her heartbeat raced as she remembered the last time she was ushered towards the palace to meet the King. She had felt as if her life was ending, a piece of her innocence ripped away from her and any sentiment of love thrown out the door the moment she moved past the heavy wooden doors of Leopold's castle...But this time would be different she would know what she was getting herself into. Trying her best to shake the bad memories away, she kept her gaze on the green trees outside the window. ''Regina, dear. Is something bothering you? You seem...quiet.'' Cora's voice interrupted her thoughts.
The brunette shook her head and cleared her throat, ''No, I'm quite alright, Mother. Thank you.''
Her mother eyed her suspiciously but nodded. She was in a rather good mood today, Regina knew it was because her plans were finally panning out just as she had imagined the first time she had held her in her arms.

After a lengthy ride, Regina noticed the tall white towers of the palace coming into view, but the carriage had not turned towards the main entrance. It took her a moment, but the realization hit her like a ton of bricks... If they were not heading to King Leopold's castle, where were they headed? She was not ready for this, she was not prepared to meet another greedy old monarch who only saw her as insurance and a piece of meat he could parade around to his guests. But most importantly, she was not ready to face the unknown. What if this time the man her mother chose was worse? If that were even possible. She tried to remain calm, taking slow breaths but her palms were sweating, and her chest was tightening. She was just as terrified as the last time she had taken a similar ride to Leopold's castle.

''Mother? Where are we heading?'' She asked, happy her voice didn't shake as she posed her question. Not wanting her mother to see the fear that swirled inside her.
Cora's lips curled up, a proud smirk spreading across her face, ''To your future, darling. I do believe you will be quite pleased with the match I've arranged for you. This King has offered a very handsome reward for his hand in marriage. All the riches we could ever ask for, a life of luxury. Just think of it, Regina. Your name will be whispered among the masses, feared and revered. The King is a very powerful man, he can offer you and our family many benefits, my dear.''
Regina could swear that when Cora went on her spiels, she was more talking to herself than to her. Almost reminding herself that all her sacrifices would not be in vain. She would make sure her daughter lived the life that had always been meant for her. A life of power, wealth and fear.

The carriage turned down a narrow road. She noticed a few strange things along the path to the castle. Starting with the gold cobbled road that led straight to the tall gold estate. It was surrounded by a vast land of greenery and white floral arrangements. The contrast of the deep emerald grass and pure white flowers, only made the gold structure stand out even more. The carriage finally came to a halt and the driver opened the door for the two women to step out. Regina could swear her legs were about to give out from underneath her, but somehow she managed to walk alongside her mother up the tall steps that led to the main entrance of the castle. Taking in every detail, the large windows, the stone walls and the tall marble columns that held the second floor up. It was beautiful and very different from Leopold's castle. More bright, lively and welcoming. Which she hoped wasn't all smoke and mirrors.

The guards then led them into the great hall where the King awaited their arrival. He was sitting on his throne when they walked in, and she could almost swear his smile was directed at her. She had barely seen his face, yet her cheeks flushed a crimson shade, her pulse racing. This was happening, all over again. ''Regina, dear. Don't be rude, bow to His Majesty.'' Her mother hissed.
She did as she was told, taking a few quick paces towards him and then bowed before him, her head low. Her eyes never quite met his, frightened of the way he may look at her. Like Leopold had last time she had lived this very similar situation, practically undressing her the moment he laid eyes on her. Not even fazed that she was only seventeen at the time they were wed. She was now a full-grown woman, but nonetheless, just as scared as the last time.

The King rose from his throne and made his way over to her, extending his hand to her gently. Holding his other hand behind his back, which she had noticed earlier was gloved. ''Pleasure to meet you, Regina, your mother has told me quite a bit about you.'' She placed her gloved hand in his as he helped her back up to her feet.
''Pleasure is all mine your Majesty-uh, excuse me I don't believe I know your name.''
His gray-blue eyes were fixed on her brown ones. ''King Midas, at your service. I'm delighted that you have chosen to accept my proposal of marriage. Your mother and I have spoken at length regarding the terms and conditions of our arrangement. Of course, the terms will be upheld after we've been properly wed.''
He spoke with such kindness, such softness but in no way had he shown any interest in her. She could tell that was strictly business for him, and a part of her felt relieved. She also recognized his name, Midas, Abigail's father. Of course, her mother would marry her off to a man who had a daughter about the same age as she was...His gloved hand only confirmed that he was one and the same man.

Sure he was quite older than she was, but his features were still quite sharp and handsome. His eyes were kind, his hair a silvery blond and his skin was smooth and pale. Although she would have to bed this man as her wifely duties asked of her, at least she could find solace in the idea of him being much more gentle than her latter match and much easier on the eyes. It also didn't hurt that this time she knew what to expect from the nightly activity that was to take place after the nuptials. It was odd, but she found some comfort in knowing he was a good man, from what she had gathered from Abigail's stories. Hopeful that she may even be around the castle somewhere, a friendly face wouldn't hurt. ''I look forward to our union, Your Highness. I believe we shall make a good match, and my family and I shall be forever grateful for your kindness and generosity.'' She said with a forced smile.
King Midas smiled back at her, nodding his head, ''Thank you, my lady. I'm certain we will. Now, I believe it is time you go and rest. You must be exhausted from your travels, my staff shall take you to your chambers. I will see you tomorrow for dinner, where we can discuss our wedding arrangements and plans. In the meantime, enjoy my home and treat it as your own.''
The maids escorted the ladies to their rooms.

Regina had been given a beautiful chamber, the bed was large and covered in white silky sheets, and the four-post bed was as she had guessed, golden with a white chiffon draping along the canopy. The walls were white, with gold trims and the furniture was the same shade of gold as were most objects in the rest of the castle. A small balcony overlooked the vast gardens below and the mountains in the far distance. The room was bright and airy. A place much better than the cold and gray room Leopold had her held in. As the handmaidens finished assisting her in getting ready for the night, Regina was finally alone. Never had she been so happy that her mother had been given a guest chamber, that they were not expected to share a living space. For now, she would try and get some rest. It had been a long strenuous day, one of many upcoming days with the festivities and nuptials planned. She slipped under the plush and lavish covers, her mind was full, and her eyes were heavy. It was not long before sleep overtook her. Dreams flooded her mind.

**
It had been a few days since Robin had gone in search of Regina. Jumping into the portal opened through Storybrooke's wishing well. He had searched villages high and low for any information on the Queen, but with no success for it almost seemed as if no woman matched the description or at least no Queen did. However, he was not ready to give up. He had promised Henry and himself he would find her, bring her home.

As he entered yet another tavern, the bartender greeted him. ''Can I get ye anything, stranger?'' The man asked him, his voice gruff and his breath stank of rum.
Robin shook his head, ''No, I'm looking for a woman.''
''Aren't we all.'' He laughed.
Robin sighed, trying to remain composed for his best shot at getting a truthful answer. Punching the lights out of this drunken bartender would do him no good. Instead, he pulled out the storybook Henry had given him from his bag and handed it to the man, pointing at a portrait of the Evil Queen, ''I'm looking for this woman, have you seen her?''
The man looked at the book and then up at Robin, laughing loudly, ''Why that almost looks like the Mills' daughter. Poor girl, a terrible fate.''
Robin's brows raised, and his eyes widened. He needed to find her quickly, his mind wondered what possible fate she had been appointed that could be so terrible.

The possibilities swarmed through his head, he shook himself back to reality back to the dusty tavern as the bartender continued, ''Oh, you should have seen her all pampered up getting in that swanky carriage. She looked like a goddess, a sight for sore eyes. I almost wanted to jump in the carriage and have her all to myself. Show her that a man is not only made of money.''
Robin's stomach churned, and his jaw tightened. His fist balled and his shoulders tensed. He tried his best to refrain from smacking the smug look off the man's face but the grin on the bartender's face after such a vulgar comment, about a woman he loved and respected no less. Before he could stand from his seat to lay a punch on the man's nose, the bartender pushed the book back towards Robin and pointed out the window. ''They were headed for King Midas' castle, that's where the wedding will take place.''
''The wedding?'' He whispered to himself.
''Aye, they're to be married within the next week. It's the talk of the town, a royal wedding.''
Robin thanked the man, grabbed his belongings and rushed out the door. He was closer than he had ever been, the wedding would take place within the next week. He only hoped he would make it there in time. He would not fail her, not now, not again.

He mounted his steed and made his way towards Midas' castle. Still, a few hours ride away. He wondered what her life was like here, in this strange new world. What kind of torture had this curse cast on her? From what he could make out of this new place, he knew this was not the Enchanted Forest he had known. A place he would have long ago called home. This realm was vastly different it was a bit dated and almost colourless. He couldn't understand why someone would create such a place, but perhaps it was just the small part of this realm he was witnessing. He was willing to bet the rest of the realm was no different, and the thought made him pity those who lived here. Even the people he had met had no goal, no drive, seemingly in a perpetual state of general unhappiness.

Snapping himself out of his otherwise sombre thoughts he pulled on the reins of his horse riding off as fast as he could. He did not stop to rest until his steed was out of breath and could not go on any further. It was well into the night, but the moon and stars lit the path enough to guide them. Robin stopped by a stream where the horse could drink and rest, and he did the same. They would need the energy and rest for the remainder of the journey. The thief was almost positive he would reach the castle the following day if the weather was fair, and the wind was on their side. He placed the riding blanket on the ground underneath a large oak tree, resting his back against the bark. His hands were folded on his stomach, and his eyes shut. It wasn't long before his dreams were plagued by visions of the young brunette, dressed in her blazers and pencil skirts, her shoulder-length raven hair and the deep brown eyes that held such sincerity. Her laugh rang in his ears, and her smile made his heart skip a beat. Each curve of her petite frame, the slit of her skirts showing off her stunning smooth legs and the swell of her breast in those particularly lower cut blouses he rather liked. His mind raced with images of the latter Mayoress, he was rudely awakened by the sound of a cracking branch nearby.

His eyes shot open, and his hand went straight to the dagger hidden in his boot, pulling it out quickly, turning towards the source of the sound and pouncing on the approaching figure. ''Please, don't kill me. I mean no harm.'' The man underneath him screamed out, his voice cracking.
''Who are you, and why are you sneaking up on me in the middle of the night?'' He hissed, keeping his blade pressed to the man's throat.
''I'm sorry, I overheard you and the barkeep talking about Regina and I had to-'' Hearing her name roll off the man's lips caught him by surprise. Robin cut him off, pushing down harder with the blade. Before the man could continue to explain why he had followed him all this way into the woods. ''What do you know about Regina?''
''More than you think. L-Look, I can explain, but could you please remove that blade from my throat? I would be able to explain much better, and you may find me much more pleasant without the risk of dying, friend.''
Robin did as the man said and removed the knife from his neck, but his body remained tense, and his eyes narrowed at the man before him. He didn't know what made him trust the man, but something in him told him he was telling the truth and could help him find Regina.

Robin offered him his hand to help him off the ground and the man accepted, thanking him as he rose. He kept an eye on this mystery man nonetheless, his blade never too far from reach as he began to explain. ''I'm Daniel and as I was saying, I overheard you talking about Regina to the barman back at the tavern and I couldn't help myself to follow you back here. I had so many questions, but I was too scared to say anything at the tavern. That drunk old fool would have spread the word faster than wildfire that some men were out in the village speaking about the new Queen to be and that could be dangerous for us and for her.''
His breath nearly dropped out of him. Daniel? How could he still be alive? He knew this man's story and it had ended years ago in a stable at Cora's hands. Robin shook his head and hoped the man had not noticed his unusual behaviour towards the latter. He decided that it was best to let the man speak and gather more intel before making a play.

''Dangerous to be speaking about Royals that I can understand, but the idea that it would be for her, I fail to understand why.''
Daniel huffed and lowered his voice as though someone may be listening in on their conversation. ''Regina and I used to be engaged, we were supposed to run away together and start a new life. But her mother had other plans and separated us, she threatened to have me killed if Regina chose a life with me. She ultimately ended things with me, but I couldn't bear having her married off to whatever old and vile king her mother chose. She's too good for them, and I just-''
Robin nodded, taking a step closer to the man and placing a firm hand on his shoulder, ''I understand, she is a wonderful woman indeed. I came all this way from a land without magic to reunite her with her family.''
Deciding to omit the truth to the man who was quite obviously still very much in love with her, about his feelings for Regina, about Storybrooke and the curse.

Robin watched as the man in front of him slumped his shoulders, a heavy sigh escaping his lips. ''Family? Oh, that must make you...'' But before Daniel could ask Robin just shook his head at the presumption of him having any relation with Regina. Well at least any two-sided relationship.
''It's complicated, but no. I am but a friend who cares very much about her. Her son, Henry asked me to bring her back and I promised I would, but I have no idea where to start. I was just about to sneak into the castle and steal her away, but I don't even know where in the bloody hell I am. All I have to go by is this book.'' Robin pulled out the storybook from his bag to show Daniel the truthful version of events, not this crap he believed to be true. But to his surprise, the book had changed or rather adapted to this new story. But how? Robin flipped over the pages in disbelief, looking through the tales. Stopping on her story, or rather their story. Regina was standing a few feet away from Daniel, after telling him she no longer wanted anything to do with him. Crushing his heart, metaphorically of course but ever just as painful. Yet this was not the authentic version of the tale, Daniel was not supposed to be here, not even supposed to be alive.

The pages from the original stories were erasing, in front of his eyes as he kept flipping further through the book. When he closed it shut, that's when he noticed it. Staring right back at him in bold lettering; The Book Of Untold Stories. How would he bring her back home now? The source meant to help in bringing her back was the very book he had travelled here with. Not this bullshit version. Daniel looked up at Robin, noticing his visible displeasure and gave him a sad smile, ''You love her too, don't you?.''
He did indeed love her but would not admit that to him for what good would it do but cause more pain to a man grieving a past love? A love that could never be his. Robin could feel the man's pain, anguish and sadness. He too had been in the very same spot, he too should never have allowed her to leave, to feel unwanted or unloved. He would fix his mistake and save her, somehow. Perhaps Daniel could be of some assistance, he knew this colourless and glum place and his love for Regina may just be the perfect driving force to help him out.

''I think Regina will always love you, Daniel. Maybe you could join me in finding Regina?'' He said truthfully, having heard his name many times before back in Storybrooke. Regina would still mention the kind stable boy that had captured her heart. Her very first love.
''I would certainly like to help in any way possible. Thank you, err I don't believe I had the pleasure of knowing your name.'' Daniel replied with a cheeky smile.
''I suppose if we will be working together it would be wise to share a bit more information. It's Robin, Robin Hood at your service.''
Succeeding in his efforts to recruit the stable boy, Robin smiled back at him.

The man's eyes grew wide, a look of awe and disbelief plastered across his face. ''Robin, as in the famous Robin Hood of Sherwood Forest, thief and bandit extraordinaire, the one that stole from the rich and gave to the poor. Robin Locksley. The most skilled archer and swordsman in the Enchanted Forest. That Robin?''
Robin chuckled and rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly, ''I would not go so far, but yes. The one and only, I suppose. Although, Robin is just fine.''
Daniel nodded his head, his mouth gaping open as though he had seen a ghost. ''It's an honour, Sir. You were a hero, a legend. I can't believe I am about to help the Robin Hood in a quest to save Regina.''
''Well, thank you, but really I am just a regular man. Robin will do just fine. Now what do you say we get going? We have a wedding to crash.''
Robin extended his hand towards Daniel, who smiled brightly and shook his hand, ''Indeed, Sir. Let's go and find ourselves a Queen.''

Chapter Text

Robin was the best at making plans for fast and quiet entrances into whatever place he needed to get into, but even better at getting out and escaping with the greatest of ease. His skill was undeniable, Daniel was in complete awe as he explained the plan in grand detail. It was a brilliant and very clever plan, one that could actually work.
Daniel would walk up to the castle gates and explain how he had come to offer up his services as a stable boy and groundskeeper. Serving as a distraction to the King's guards from Robin's infiltration. Most of the other guards, servants and workers would be far too busy with the upcoming wedding to notice Robin once inside the castle. He could walk about freely, but would ultimately have to remain careful when approaching the bride's chambers and certainly ensuring that it was very well empty. A strange man in the future Queen's bedchamber would most certainly raise suspicion and lead to his capture.

Once they arrived at the gates, Daniel did as they had planned and walked up to the guardsmen, offering his services as they had agreed. The guard did not take much time to agree, having been short-staffed since the wedding announcement. It would be the most important event of the season and King Midas had spared no expense. While one of the guards remained back at the entrance, the other helped Daniel find his way to the stables. With only one guard remaining, Robin easily snuck past him and made his way into the castle. As Robin had predicted, getting around once inside the castle doors would be fairly easy. Blending in and not drawing too much attention to himself, the servants were all too busy running about, getting the ballroom ready for the wedding ceremony. Moving upstairs, however, was going to prove more difficult, so he would have to find an excuse to be granted access to the upper halls that lead to her chambers.

As he made his way through the castle, his eyes scanned the area for anything that could possibly give him the opportunity he was looking for to make his way upstairs. The servants had left out a cart filled with silverware and plates. ''Perfect.'' He whispered to himself.
He would bring a platter of food up to her chambers. Surely no one would question why he was bringing her lunch, he just hoped that none would notice that he was not wearing a white coat or apron, the standard uniform for the servers. He carefully pulled out a silver tray, placing a few plates, glasses and cutlery on top and headed towards the staircase that led up to the second floor. One of the maids stopped him, giving him a confused look and asking, ''What are you doing with that?''
He quickly came up with a story, explaining how one of the servants was feeling unwell and had not come down for breakfast. So he offered up his help when he noticed how busy the rest of them had all been. She did not question him further, just nodded her head and continued her work. Was he ever relieved that they were so short a few too many workers?

Robin made his way upstairs and towards the future Queen's bedchamber. It was not long before he found himself standing in front of her door, he raised his hand to knock and took a deep breath. Hesitation coursed through his body, he had no idea what the curse had brought to her. What if she didn't recognize him or what if she did, and did not want to come back? How would he approach her? His hand was still on the doorknob as he stood in the hall, frozen with doubt. This was the part he had not thought through. Robin heard footsteps behind him. He could not be discovered now, he was so close. The decision was now very much made, get inside quickly and deal with the repercussions after. He turned the knob and stepped inside the room, closing the door quietly behind him before anyone could see him and ask too many questions. He had just been lucky that the previous maid had believed his not-so-good lie.

Once inside, he took in his surroundings. It was lavish, with white marble walls with gold trims and tall ceilings graced with the grand chandelier that hovered over the four-post canopy bed. It was grand, but it was ever so quiet and so empty. After deeming himself alone and safe in Regina's room, he set the platter down on the small table near the door and moved towards the balcony behind the large glass door. The view was just as spectacular as the room, the garden was full of flowers and trees and a few benches lined the pathway. He was certain the grounds were well kept, but for a place that was supposed to be her home, Robin could not understand why the room was so devoid of personal touches or belongings. Not a single piece of clothing, no jewelry or books. It looked like the room had just been set up for a guest, rather than a future wife. There was no love shared between the two, of that he was sure but why had she agreed to marry yet another greedy old Royal?

The Regina he knew was strong, independent and stubborn. She would not allow herself to be treated as nothing more than a possession. He sighed and returned to the inside of the room, making his way towards the chair that faced the fireplace. He sat down and flipped through the pages of the storybook while he waited for her to return. If Robin was in a hurry to get Regina back home before, he surely was in more of one now that her story was being rewritten in front of his very eyes. What would happen to the rest of the stories and the people? Would their memories be changed? Have their stories rewritten? If Regina had never become the Evil Queen, the course of many other tales would have had a very different outcome. For some, this would mean great things, for others... not so much.

His mind wandered, thinking about the repercussions that would affect the lives of the citizens back in Storybrooke. If the book was already changing, the rest of the town would soon follow. His heart sank as he realized what had to be done, Regina would have to become the Evil Queen once more and cast the curse. The question remained, how was that possible?
A few minutes had passed, and the sound of the door opening caught his attention. His eyes shot up from the book and a smile tugged at his lips. To his utter disappointment, the woman he was hoping would walk through that very door did not emerge. Instead, a woman he remembered all too well and was hoping not to run into did. Regina's mother, Cora...

**
Regina woke up that morning, with the very same pit in her stomach that never went away since the day she arrived here, but with the wedding day fast approaching it did nothing but grow and tighten. She was not sure if she would be able to get through the next week, much less the rest of her life but this was what was expected of her. She did not have much of a choice, for her mother might literally kill her if she did anything to jeopardize her opportunity to become Queen.

So she slipped out of her bed and got ready for the day, dressing in a light blue dress with silver patterns. The fabric was light and airy for the summer season was upon them and the sun had been quite present the last few days. Her hair was tied in a low ponytail with just a few curled strands purposely pulled out to frame her face. A more casual and natural look for a day full of preparations. Today, she was to have her dress fitting, to choose the menu and the flowers, and to discuss the details of the ceremony. She could not care less about the ceremony, the wedding or her groom for that matter. She just needed all of it to be over with. The entire thing, ceremony, reception and most of all the wedding night. The thought of bedding King Midas, come wedding night, weighed heavy on her mind. The thought of seeing and sleeping with her friend's father was something that nauseated her. Sure, Regina remembered being with other men in her previous life, but the memory that kept flashing back, haunting her dreams for the past few days was of her first time with Leopold. How poorly that had all gone down.

It wasn't long after the wedding when the King had demanded his husbandly rights, and her body had responded in the worst way possible. She was petrified. When the time had come, and the King had made his way toward her bed, the look on his face told her he could not care less about what she wanted. He was about to lay claim on what was his. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as the King climbed on top of her as she lay paralyzed with fear. He had not prepared her, nor had he caressed her or even talked to her for that matter. He just rucked up the skirt of her wedding dress and took what was rightfully his, as he had said. The pain was indescribable, and the King was relentless. It was not the gentle and passionate first time she had imagined having. He was rough and had shown no respect or love, nor did he try to make her feel good. No, it was only his needs and wants that were important. After a few more thrusts, the King finished inside of her and rolled off the bed. He left the room and returned to his, leaving her there lying in her own blood, pain and tears. She felt dirty and sick. But the worst had not even begun.

For weeks and months to follow, the King would often demand his rights. Sometimes twice a day, sometimes three times and sometimes more. Every time he liked to remind her that he would keep doing so until she would successfully provide him with an heir. But when months passed and she had yet to get pregnant, the King would take her in ways she could never have imagined. Ways that could not even get her pregnant. He liked to whisper his wife's name in her ear as a way to show dominance and power over her and it helped him get off. Regina never told anyone about the abuse she endured at his hands, for no one would believe that the Benevolent King Leopold treated his wife so poorly.

Her mind drifted back to the present, shaking off the horrible memories that invaded her mind. She did not have time to waste by thinking about the past and stupid fucking Leopold. It did not matter anymore, he did not matter anymore. All of that was gone now as if none of it had ever even taken place. But she knew these dreams were very real, she remembered them all too well. She sat in front of her vanity mirror and took a deep breath. Today would be a very long day, but she was determined to make the best out of it and not dwell on the past, the wedding or what would become of her.

Regina made her way down the hallway, trying her best throughout all the meetings to shake off the pesky voice in her head telling her that all of this was wrong and that she did not belong there. The part she dreaded most today was soon upon her, having to put on that god-awful wedding dress. Nothing in particular was wrong about it, but what it meant was. The dress was beautiful and elegant, with its high collar and long sleeves, a full skirt and a train. It was everything a little girl could dream of, but the truth was that she was no longer a little girl but a grown woman. The very same woman who was expected to wear this heavy, heavy dress and all the while pretending to be happy.

After the fitting, Regina was to get back to her chambers and turn in for the night but as she passed by one of the many large windows along the way to her room. She noticed how nice the sun was, bright and high in the sky, it was a perfect day to go riding. So that's what she would do. Turning on her heels and making haste to the stable, for it may be her last chance to ride and to feel like Regina Mills, one last time.

**
Robin pushed off of the chair and without having time to find a better hiding spot, he quickly moved the book behind him, standing still as Cora stepped into the room. Her eyes fell on him and he could swear he felt his heart quicken like never before. He had heard many stories about her, the powerful, merciless mother and witch she was and it truly terrified him. Even more so now that she was standing just a few feet away from him.

Cora looked him up and down as she neared him, "I don’t believe we’ve met. You’re certainly not one of King Midas’ men." She asked so calmly yet, that was what scared him most.
How could she not be scared or angry about having a stranger hanging about in her daughter's room? Robin swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat and cleared it before answering. ''I'm new. I offered my services as a servant in the castle, and one of the maids allowed me to help serve the bride-to-be's lunch.'' His eyes darted to the table where he had put the platters of food down.
Cora eyed him curiously and Robin could tell she was not believing his story. He remained ever so still, but he could feel his legs jitter underneath him and he tried to steady them as best he could without her noticing his general unease.

''You seem rather nervous.'' She kept pacing the room, moving closer and closer to him and he was not sure whether to stay put or if he should just run.
''Nervous, yes. I am not used to being around such-'' Robin cleared his throat, ''Such beauty and royalty, Ma'am.'' He finished, swallowing hard.
''Charming.'' She laughed, but it was not a joyful or humorous one. Oh no, this was a devious laugh and it made Robin's skin crawl. She kept moving slowly towards him like a predator ready to catch its prey.
When she finally stopped a step away from the side of his face, he saw her eyes catch the object he was carefully holding up against his back and that's when he knew he was done for.

''Would you like to explain what you are hiding behind you?'' She said, her eyes narrowing and the corner of her mouth tugging upwards in a sly grin.
He let out a breath he did not know he had been holding and slowly lowered his hand, bringing the book out in front of him. ''A book of stories my boy likes, I carry it with me for good luck.'' Robin did not know when he got this good at lying, perhaps having a scary powerful witch interrogating you could do that to a person.
Her eyes rolled as she scoffed at his lie, clearly not buying his bullshit story, ''Do you think me a fool?'' She raised her hand, magic surged and pushed him against the wall.

The contact with the hard marble wall behind him made him drop the book. His eyes returned to the woman's as she closed the gap between them, her hand plunged into his chest ripping out the bright red organ and holding it up so he could see it sitting in her open palm. The searing pain as he felt all emotion drain from him. She had his heart in her clutches.

The longer his heart was absent from his chest, the more the world around him was becoming colourless. He had heard all the tales of people who had their hearts taken from them. Now he was experiencing it for himself, and it was even worse than what he ever could have imagined. ''Now let's try this again, shall we? Who are you, and why are you here?'' She barked at him.
He whimpered and clenched his teeth as the pain continued to rise. ''Please, stop.'' Robin choked out.
Cora's eyes grew darker, and her grin wider, ''Tell me why you are here.'' She squeezed even tighter.
Robin gritted his teeth, his resolve cracking under the intense pressure. Finally, he breaks. "I came... for Regina."
Cora leant in, her eyes gleamed. "Go on."
"I wanted to save her."
Cora’s grip tightened further, and Robin collapsed to his knees, his breath ragged. "Save her? How very noble. And what makes you think she needs saving?" Mocking him, a smile graced her lips.
Tears formed in his eyes, and he barked out. "Because she’ll never be happy. Not with Midas. Not with you controlling every aspect of her life."
Cora tilted her head, considering this.

Then, without warning, she began squeezing again, her expression growing colder. ''You’re of no further use to me."
''A real pity that people never learn that love is weakness. Dear, Regina will be more than happy to marry into royalty and become a great and powerful Queen.''
Robin gasped for air as darkness creeps into the edges of his vision. Summoning the last of his strength, he muttered, "I... can help..."
He continued when he saw her eyes narrow at his offer, "Daniel... is here." Cora paused, loosening her grip slightly. ''Daniel? Is that so? And how would this bit of information be helpful to me?''
''As long as he’s here... Regina will never let go of him. She’ll never rule as you want her to. But if you remove him—" Robin coughs, his voice barely audible.
Cora’s lips curl into a wicked smile, her mind already spinning with possibilities. "You’re suggesting I rid her of him... for good."
Robin forces himself to meet her gaze, his heart heavy with guilt from the moment Daniel's name slipped out of his lips.

"If you want her to be the Queen you’ve always dreamed of... you know it’s the only way." He said barely above a whisper.
Cora’s laughter echoes through the room as she releases his heart, placing it in a pouch as she watches Robin collapse, gasping for breath. She steps over him making her way towards the door. "Oh, you’re far more useful than I thought. You may live—for now but I will be keeping this for later." Her voice was now light and gleeful as her heels click-clacked out of the room, leaving Robin alone.
He pulled himself to the storybook, flipping the pages of the damned story stopping only to see the face of the woman he just betrayed. His fingers brushed Regina's painted face on the page and his eyes filled with water. ''What have I done? I'm so sorry, Regina.''
He stayed lying on the cold ground for a few moments, never would Robin Hood have imagined that his life would turn out this way. Never in a million years, would he have ever believed that he would give up a man's life to save his own. But then again, he had been Glenn Forrester for so long and Robin Hood was nothing but a man of his past. The man he was today was no hero, just a regular cowardly man who let his selfishness get in the way.

Robin picked himself up, dusting off his clothes and straightened himself before walking out of the room, and the castle. Hoping that one day, Regina would forgive him for the horrible thing he had done. For he was just as much to blame for Daniel's demise as Cora was...

Chapter Text

As Regina pushed the doors of King Midas' stables, she was not expecting to see what she found. ''Daniel?''
She stopped dead in her tracks, her eyes scanning the area. He was here. Why was he here?
Daniel turned towards her, his face lighting up as he caught her eyes, ''Regina, thank goodness. I searched for you for so long and-''
''You can't be here.'' She said interrupting him.
Daniel took a step towards her, and she moved back. ''Has anyone seen you? Who knows you're here? No, no, you need to go.'' Regina rambled on.
His hand reached out, caressing her face, her eyes closing at the familiar touch. His touch. Falling into the familiarity and comfort of him, her heart squeezed. It was everything she wanted. She could not resist, so she melted into his arms, hugging him close.
''I'm here to help you, Regina. Please come with me, everything will be ok.'' He whispered in her ear, his arms wrapped tightly around her waist.

She moved back from him, just enough for her eyes to meet his. Her fingers brushed along the soft skin of his cheek, her thumb moving down to his lower lip. Her teenage heart blissfully enjoyed every moment like this, that had been taken away from her so suddenly. She missed him so much, and the thought of running away with him right now sounded absolutely perfect. Caught in the moment, she moved closer until their lips met in a heated kiss. It was desperate, and a little awkward, and yet, Regina was lost in it. She had spent years thinking about the first and last time their lips had ever met. Memories rushing back, unfortunately, were cut short when Daniel took a sharp breath in and his hands clutched the left side of his chest.

Regina stepped back, watching as fear crossed his face, followed by shock, and confusion. His eyes widened as he struggled for breath, his body crumbling to the ground. That's when Regina saw her standing there, the gray ashes spilling through the palms of her hands and a smirk on her face. ''No, no, no! Not again. Daniel!'' Regina cried out as she knelt down next to him.
''What did you do? What did you do!?'' She screamed at her mother.
''Regina-'' Cora began, but Regina cut her off.
''I told him to leave, he was going to leave.'' She pleaded, her voice breaking, her tears falling on the lifeless body.
''He could have left and your heart could never have belonged to Midas or his kingdom. He is nothing, Regina. A stable boy and a nobody. He is not worthy of your love or affection, he is not worthy of anything. It had to be done, and now you're free. Free to become the Queen and ruler that I know you can be.''
Regina turned her attention back to his lifeless body. "I'm so sorry, Daniel."
Her heart was shattered into pieces once again. It was happening all over again, she had told him to stay away for being near her would only cause pain and sorrow.

Like poison, her love always seemed to find a way to kill whatever good was around her. In any story, in any realm all happiness seemed to slip through her fingers, leaving her in a pool of her own misery. She stood up, looking at the mess in front of her and then turned her attention back to her mother. ''How could you!?'' Tears streamed down her face.
''It's for the best Regina, one day you will understand that everything I do is because I care for you,'' Cora answered her.
Regina laughed sarcastically. ''You? Care for me? What kind of mother would murder their daughter's first love? You're a fucking monster.''
Cora's face hardened, her hand moving swiftly through the air, striking Regina across the face. Regina did not flinch, did not even acknowledge the pain as her head flew to the side. ''Get up, clean yourself off and wipe away that dreadful look on your face. You're to become Queen, tomorrow.'' Cora sneered, turning on her heels and walking out of the stable.
Regina moved down next to Daniel's lifeless body, her hands moving over his face, closing his eyes.

He lay in the hay as though he was in a deep sleep, just like the last time, she lay next to him hoping, praying he would wake but it was hopeless and she knew it. Regina leaned in and placed a soft kiss on his lips, ''I sorry, Daniel. Forgive me for the pain I caused you. Forgive me for what I have done, and what I'm about to do.''
Regina's heart was filled with so much rage, anger, and pain that she felt like her head would explode.

A flicker of heat emanated from her palms, she looked down and to her great content, flames appeared dancing across the palm of her hands. The first time since being here that she was able to perform magic, or rather any stable magic and the reason was no other than the rage building inside her. She stood, and with one last look at the man she had loved and the man she had lost, she wiped away her tears and walked away. In turn, a subtle smile painted her lips. If her mother wanted her to become a powerful and feared Queen, so be it. Because that's exactly who she would be, just like her mother had wanted.

**
Robin was lying in the bed of the room he had rented above the tavern, his thoughts were a jumbled mess and the pain from losing his heart was still a dull ache. His eyes were closed, and he had hoped that sleep would finally come to him, but his mind would not rest. So instead, he had lain in his bed, staring up at the ceiling. His eyes closed again and he tried to concentrate on his breathing and forcing his mind to think of Roland back at home, but it was difficult to remember him when the feelings attached to the memory felt like a ghost.

His mind drifted to Regina, back to a memory of them in Storybrooke; It was the first time they had met. Robin remembered seeing her sitting on the park bench watching her son Henry, as he squealed about while playing on the playset. Her smile was so wide he could tell just how much she loved him and that made his single parent heart soar. She had a certain aura around her when her son was around. He watched her from afar, her dark hair cut just short of her shoulders and her eyes sparkled in the morning light. He was no fool, he knew that not everyone had the same opinion of her as he did. Most were absolutely petrified of her and he could understand them. Her presence was quite daunting and intimidating, but not to him. Well at least not until now, it was too late when he noticed Roland had detached himself from his hand and run across the road towards the playground. A car came screeching down the street a minute later and without a second thought, he chased after his son yelling ''Oliver, WAIT!'', but did not stop.

It had happened all so fast, that he didn't even notice she had gotten up. Too wrapped up in his son and the fear of losing him, he was not aware that she had been chasing after him as well. Pulling him to the side safely before the car could reach him. His son wrapped up in her arms, shaken from the incident with tears spilling from his eyes. Robin ran to meet them on the other side, his chest was burning, and his lungs were on fire. His son jumped from Regina's arms and into his, Robin held him close, squeezing him tight. ''Oliver, you have to be careful.''
Before he could say anything else, the woman had opened her mouth, "That was very dangerous what you did." He nodded, "Yes, I agree. He's usually so good about staying near me.''
Her eyes narrowed, ''I was talking about you. That was reckless and stupid, how can you leave your son unattended like that?" She spat angrily.
Robin was taken aback, and his mouth fell open, "Me? You're blaming me? I would never let anything happen to my son."
Her face remained stoic, and her eyes darkened, "Luckily, I was here."
There she was, the sassy Mayoress he had heard so much about.

Pushing down his anger at the woman's accusations, seeing that she had reacted out of fear more than in malice, he decided to take a deep breath and slowly ease back into a less pointed tone. ''You're right, and I owe you a great deal. Thank you for saving him, truly." He extended his hand to her.
She did not take his hand, she simply nodded at him, ''Regina Mills''
"Glenn Forrester and this little rascal is Oliver.''
Her eyes fell on the young boy who was clinging to his neck. She smiled warmly, her whole face lighting up once again. Noting her soft spot for children.

"Nice to meet you, Oliver. You see that boy over there? That's my son, Henry, why don't you go play with him." She said waving at her boy who was still playing by himself. She then turned her attention back to Robin, her eyes narrowed, and her mouth formed into a frown, "And I believe, Mr. Forrester, that I will have to keep an eye on you both. A second more and I would have been stuck in the middle of a messy court case. "
"Please, call me Glenn. Glad it didn't come to that, but I will extend my services as a legal advisor if ever you need me, as a way of thanking you. I truly don't know how I will ever repay you.'' He held out a business card, and she took it, reading over it before sliding it into her coat pocket.
"I'll keep that in mind.'' For what remained of the time, Robin watched his son, who had taken an instant liking to Henry and the two of them had become fast friends.

Meeting in the park had become a regular occurrence for them, he was rather pleased that the boys got along greatly. He loved seeing the warmer side of her, they became each other's comfort in a way and that had been a surprise. Robin had always believed the woman was just as cold and icy as the weather during winter. But as he spent more and more time with her, he noticed she was a little damaged. Not that she would openly show it, but he could see it anytime he talked about his wife Marian she would look down at her hands and idly play with the gold ring she wore. Yet he had never seen her with another man, other than Sidney Glass and Sheriff Graham from time to time, but they worked for her. It didn't stop them or any man that crossed her, from gawking at her beauty, it was truly remarkable the effect she had on men without even really trying.

If he was being honest, there had been a couple of times when he caught himself staring at her for longer than he should, caught in her charm. She was a beautiful woman and no man would deny that. Robin's heart ached, and he felt a pull inside him. He had no idea what it was, but the feeling was strange, and he had not felt it in such a long time. What he saw went beyond how she looked on the outside. To him, Regina was the strongest and most beautiful woman he had ever laid eyes upon. The way she cared for and protected the ones she loved was a strength all on its own. He had not felt the way he had with Marian in so long, it was a scary thought, but his heart swelled and pounded with every moment spent with her. There had been times when he almost told her how he felt, and yet, every time the words would get stuck in his throat. How could a woman like her like a man like him?

One night, his fears had all come crashing down when Regina showed up at his doorstep, her hair a mess, and her eyes red and puffy. The moment he saw her, he knew something terrible had happened, but she would not speak of it. ''Regina? Come in, it's freezing.'' He said, stepping aside for her to enter his apartment.
''Is something wrong?'' He asked, closing the door as she entered.
Without a word, she closed the distance between them and their lips met. His hand tangled in her wet hair and his arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer. Despite her clothes being drenched by the pouring rain, that did not deter him from living this moment. It was passionate and hungry, her hands slipped under his shirt, her fingertips tracing the lines of his muscles, and he shuddered at the sensation. He had dreamt of this moment, but not like this. This was not her, not his Regina, the woman before him was hurting and was seeking and he could not take advantage of her.

He pulled back, breathing heavily. He placed his hand on her cheek, brushing the wet strands away from her face. ''We shouldn't. Regina, please talk to me.''
She looked up at him, her eyes full of hurt and pain, her lip quivering. ''You don't want me?'' She choked out.
His heart broke at the sound of her voice, his thumb caressed her cheek and he shook his head, ''You have no idea how badly I want this. How long I have wanted you, but not like this. Not when you're clearly hurting and not when we're both emotional and vulnerable. I don't want us to make any decisions we'll regret in the morning.''
She looked down, bit her lip and nodded her head. ''I'm sorry, I-I have to go. This was a mistake.'' She said, moving back from him and heading for the door.
"Regina, wait-''
But she didn't listen, and left him standing there, watching her walk away. He shook his head and the memory faded away. He sighed, rubbing his hands over his face and he could not help the cringe at his previous decisions. Another memory reminded him of times when he had let her down, let her simply walk away. He now knew that night was the night she had figured out who Henry's birth mother, Emma was. The Saviour, the one who would not only break the curse but take her son in the process. He knew what he was supposed to feel was guilt, but he couldn't, not without his heart in his chest. Robin stood and paced around the room, the memory of Regina walking out the door, her face red and angry. He could have stopped her, should have, but didn't.

A voice he recognized, reverberated off the walls of the small room. He moved towards the sound. Perplexed, as he didn't only hear her voice, he could now see her too. The looking glass reflected an image of Regina, as she stood in what looked like a horse stable. He reached out and touched the glass. ''Regina, can you hear me?'' He asked, but he soon found out. She didn't he could only watch as the devastating events unfolded before his eyes.
He stood idly, unable to do anything, his hand gripping the glass tighter. ''No, no, Regina...'' He wished he could look away, but something inside him was almost forcing him to watch as Regina fell apart in front of his very eyes.
Watching as Daniel lay in the hay, dead. All because he had told Cora his whereabouts. Robin felt bile rise up in his throat, he had been the one to cause her this pain. The image in the mirror washed away, replaced by the reflection of his own face. ''See where bravery gets you? Don't try and be the hero, I see the way you look at her and I will not let anyone stand in the way of my plans. You will stay away from my daughter.'' Cora's voice rang in his ears.

The image disappeared, and Robin stumbled back, his mind spinning with confusion. As much as he wanted to run to Regina, to whisk her away and apologize until he was blue in the face. He could not get himself to move, feeling like he no longer could control what he truly wanted to do. It hit him like a ton of bricks, Cora was controlling him, she had his heart. He was nothing but a puppet to the Queen's mother and he couldn't even think about what the horrible woman would do to Regina if he was even able to interfere. ''Control and torment me as you please, but I will not allow you to hurt Regina.''
His hands gripped the edges of the mirror, pulling it off the wall and throwing it to the ground. The glass shattered around him, shards digging into his hands and feet. Robin had wanted to feel something, anything other than the numbness that had filled him, but his body was still under Cora's command. He sat back down on the edge of his bed, blood dripping onto the wooden floor.

At least, he knew the witch could not spy on him, she could not revel in the desperation that seeped from him in his lowest of moments through this evil mirror. It was no wonder Regina was so broken and filled with darkness, after a lifetime of being controlled and tormented by the evil woman. How did she manage to not let it all swallow her whole? It had not even been a day since he had his heart ripped out of his chest, and already he had done things that had made him want to throw himself off a bridge. As much as he wanted to think about even the possibility of a happy ending, finding each other, returning to Storybrooke as a couple and raising Roland and Henry together. This plan, out through the window, for even if he was to retrieve his heart somehow he didn't think he deserved to.

Not after all the pain he had caused Regina, not after being responsible for Daniel's death. The thought of having to look her in the eyes, and tell her what had happened. How could she ever forgive him? He had done what everyone who ever came close to her had done, betray, lie, and hurt her. He was no different, he was no hero. Robin could not blame her if she killed him, he'd let her. He would deserve every bit of it and more. Regina deserved better.

Chapter Text

The sun had risen above the trees and its rays warmed the air around the castle grounds, a cool breeze flowed through the windows of Regina's chambers. She grumbled and pulled the covers up over her head, realization hit her hard. Today was the wedding day. Her mind was still reeling from the events of the day before, the last thing she wanted was to get married to someone she did not love, but her mother had not given her a choice. Cora had taken the decision out of her hands, as she normally did.
It wasn't long before maids rushed inside her chambers, bustling around her, removing the covers from her. ''Good morning your Majesty. I trust you slept well, today's the big day. You must be excited.''
''Indeed.'' She answered, pushing a smile to her lips, trying her best to hide her true emotions.

They moved quickly, preparing the bath and helping her into it, scrubbing her skin and washing her hair. Her body was dried and dressed in a robe, and her hair was wrapped in a towel, while the maids then moved her in front of the mirror. They removed her robe and replaced the garment with the wedding gown. Barely being able to breathe with just how tight the corset had been tied up, it didn't help that she was already having a hard time drawing breaths before putting on the white garment. Her hair was styled into a simple updo, adorned with small gold leaf details. Her makeup was light and soft, her lips stained a pale pink. Regina looked at herself in the mirror, she couldn't help the tears forming in her eyes. She felt beautiful, but the circumstances of the day made her feel ugly inside. Her mind flashed back to the days when she was young and dreamed of her wedding day, it was nothing like she had envisioned. A simple and intimate affair would have been enough, with their closest friends, and family surrounding them.

Instead and all too soon she would be standing in front of the large chapel doors ready to make her way down the aisle with hundreds of people she did not know, or even care to know. A wedding to a man she didn't love and would never love. All eyes on her, she would walk down the aisle, her eyes never meeting the man who stood at the end. A smile, fake as the day was long, plastered on her face, as they exchanged their vows and promised themselves to one another. And just like that, Regina would kiss her new husband, for the first time in front of all those strangers and be named Queen. She would become the wife of King Midas, and no matter how hard she tried no one would believe she was anything but. She could already feel the weight of the crown on her head and the suffocating chains that would bind her forever. Without forgetting the smile on her mother's face as it all took place, the pride and the happiness it brought her. Bile rose in her throat and before she could reach the restroom, the contents of her stomach emptied itself on the floor. Her maid quickly rushed to clean up the mess, as her body shook, and she was glad to see none of it got on her dress. God forbid if her mother would have noticed a single piece of food on her dress...

"Your Majesty, are you okay?" The young girl asked, her voice filled with concern.
"Yes, I'm fine. Just a little bit of nerves.''
She wasn't entirely lying, her nerves were on high alert, but it wasn't just because of the wedding. If she was being honest with herself, her magic had come back the day before and it scared her, more than anything. Not because having magic scared her, she was actually glad to have some sort of defence mechanism, but the fact that it was brought on by a burst of anger. The last time she gave into her emotions through magic, she ended up casting a whole curse, killing her father in the process and what had that gotten her. Nothing. What if her emotions got the best of her during the wedding? Maybe that's exactly what she needed to do to get out of this mess, use her magic to create a diversion, like a fire or something of the sort and escape.

The thought quickly faded, how could she escape when her mother was in the same room as her, controlling her every move? Regina sighed, she had no choice but to follow the path her mother had set out for her. There was no escape, not this time. Almost as if on cue, in came her mother. Ready to escort her towards her future.

**
Before she knew it, Regina was walking through the castle, towards the chapel. Her mother's arm looped around hers. The closer they got, the faster her heart beat, the faster her thoughts raced. The large, heavy, oak doors were opened, and her mother released her arm and turned to face her. "Oh, look at you, you are a vision. I'm so proud of you, my darling girl. You have worked so hard, and today you will get the reward you deserve."
A single tear rolled down her cheek and she swallowed the lump in her throat, "Thank you, Mother.''
This was the first time Regina had heard such words from her mother, and it made her heart swell. Maybe now things would change between them, maybe as Queen, Cora and Regina could become closer. Like a real mother and daughter. Cora's lips formed a small smile, her hand caressed her daughter's cheek, and Regina leaned into the touch.

It was so strange for Cora to show this much attention to her, but the hope of them even having a somewhat normal relationship blossomed inside her. It's all Regina had ever truly wanted, her mother to accept her, to be proud of her and to show her that she loved her just as much as Regina did. Despite all the punishments, scolding and downright awful things her mother had done, her love for her mother strangely never wavered. "Come, let us not keep the King waiting."
Regina nodded, her lips pulled into a small smile and the two of them walked down the aisle. And just like that, Regina was Queen once more. Her mother's previous deeds were soon forgotten as Regina held to that small bit of hope Cora had given to her as they had stood at the top of the chapel's aisle.

The slither of hope that had made itself home in the Queen's chest, quickly faded away the night of the wedding. Regina stood in King Midas' chambers completely bare. Ready to fulfill her marital duties and give the man the heir everyone seemed to be demanding of her. He did not seem very eager to get things going, not that Regina was in any rush. She was secretly hoping that they could just skip over this part. He simply sat on the edge of the bed, looking down at his hands, a drink in his grasp. She watched him as he gulped down the dark amber liquid. He smiled and placed his drink down on the table beside him. "You are a beautiful woman, Regina. I hope you know that."
"Thank you, My King." She replied.
His eyes never wandered her body, he stayed looking at her face when he spoke to her. "I understand you do not wish to be here, but we will find a way to make the best of it. I promise you that, the last thing I want to do is hurt you."
"How can you possibly know what I want?"
"Because I can see it in your eyes. The look of a woman who does not wish to be married to a man twice her age."
She swallowed hard, and she couldn't deny it. ''Well, it's not a difficult assumption to make. The wedding was not my idea, and this is certainly not the life I had pictured for myself."
"I can understand that, as this was not the idea of what I had pictured for myself either. But sometimes life throws things our way, making us learn from certain situations."
She looked down, her lip caught between her teeth, ''I'm sorry. I don't mean to insult you, my King."
He shook his head and laughed, ''Please, call me Midas when we are just the two of us. No need to be so formal, Regina. I think you'll find we'll make quite a team, and I do hope we can be friends."
"I'd like that." She smiled and nodded her head, feeling the weight lift off her shoulders a little.

''So uh, did you want to- uh should we?'' She continued, motioning towards the bed.
"If you're not ready, we can wait. There is no rush, my dear. Really, I want you to be as comfortable as possible.''
She released a deep breath, not realizing that she had been holding it. "Perhaps you could stay the night, here...uh I mean we could talk. I know nothing about you and as your wife, I should."
Midas smiled and nodded his head, ''You're right. I should know more about my wife. I'm an open book, ask me anything."
The two of them spent hours talking, and Midas did not once force himself upon her. She found out he was not like the other horrible men who tried or had taken advantage of her the last time she had gone through and married into royalty. Midas was kind, and he treated her with respect and dignity. He made her feel safe. He talked about the loss of his previous wife, Abigail's mother. How his powers, though useful, had come with a cost. He spoke of the guilt and shame he felt, although by accident he turned his dear wife into gold. Abigail had never been the same since then, she barely spoke to him anymore and would so rarely step out of her room to actually allow him to see her.

Regina shared a little about herself as well. She told him about Daniel, the stable boy and how his passing had affected her. She had felt safe enough to share that she also had powers, and he hadn't even batted an eye. He had only listened and nodded. He had no fear or judgement, and that alone meant a lot. Regina did leave out key portions of the story. Such as her mother ripping out the heart of her loved one, the fact that she had gone through this entire ''shipped off to wed'' business before and the whole casting a dark curse thing. She could tell him those things, and he would most likely accept her, but she had only just met the man and was not ready to open up like that, not just yet. As much as she did believe this man to be good-hearted, she could not trust in the fact that he would not tell her mother. She could not risk that, not when Cora had made Snow sing like a canary all those years ago.

Regina sat up in a jolt, the dots connecting in her mind. ''How did she know?" She whispered to herself. Midas nearly fell off the bed from the sudden movement.
"What? Did you say something?"
"How did my mother know about Daniel? How did she know that's where I was headed?" She questioned her tone a mix of anger and sadness.
He rubbed the sleep from his eyes and shook his head, "What do you mean?''
She had kind of forgotten that he was still there sitting next to her and that he had no idea what she was talking about. She needed answers, now before her head exploded. ''I have to go, excuse me.'' She said, standing and gathering the sheets around her.
"Regina, wait, where are you going?"
"I have to see her."
"Who?"
"My mother." Her palms started to warm and with that, Regina left the King stranded in his chambers.
She strode off to her mother's bedroom, dressed in nothing but a silk robe.

The Queen did not care one bit about the odd looks and whispers that were coming from the servants and guards. All she cared about was finding out the truth and she was not leaving until she had the answer she sought. She would get answers even if it killed her.

Chapter Text

The door was thrown open and Cora nearly fell out of her bed in shock. She had been sleeping and had not expected anyone to be coming to visit her at such an hour.
''Regina?'' Her voice was still groggy. "What are you doing here?"
''How did you know?''
Cora shook her head, confusion and exhaustion were clearly written all over her face. ''What are you talking about?''
''Don't play games with me, mother. How did you know I was with Daniel in the stables?"
"Why does it matter, he was nothing more than a stable boy and besides, knowing everything isn't always a good thing.''
"No, no. You don't get to answer my question with another question. Answer me, how did you know?"
"Because I was told."
"By who? Tell me.'' Regina interrupted.
Cora sat up, her lips formed a thin line. ''Are you sure? Do you really want to know, because once you do. You will never be able to go back and pretend like this doesn't exist. Do you understand that?''
"I'm not a child, Mother. Stop treating me like one. I deserve the truth, no more secrets and no more lies."
"Robin Hood," Cora replied.

''Why would that matter to me?'' Regina retorted, truly confused.
''Oh. I had the feeling you might have known each other. He was in your room that same day, looking through your things and acting all strange. So I may have punished him for snooping in places he was not meant to be.''
''You took his heart didn't you.'' It wasn't a question, but a statement.
"I did what was necessary, Regina. I needed answers, and he did not hesitate to give them. In fact, he's the one who suggested I rid you of the boy."
"What? Why? What good could he possibly have to gain by doing that?"
''I don't know perhaps you could ask him yourself?'' Cora yawned and stretched. ''Now if you will excuse me, I'm rather tired and would like to go back to sleep. I suggest you get back to the King."
Regina couldn't help the anger and frustration rising inside her. ''I'll find you, Robin Hood, if it's the last thing I do.'' She grumbled as she stomped her way out of her mother's room, slamming the door close.

**
Regina wasted no time, she knew the quickest way to find him was with a locator spell. All she needed was something that belonged to him, and she knew exactly where to find it. His heart was stored amongst the others, in her mother's crypt. She stormed her way down to the crypt, pushing the heavy stone door open. She opened her palm creating a fireball, illuminating the room, and strode over to the shelves. Regina knew that her mother had organized the shelves by the date of capture, which meant Robin's heart was bound to be lower amongst the hundreds of stacked boxes. Strangely, it was not held in the last tray. One was dated for last night. Perhaps, one of the maids had not cleaned her chambers like she would have liked, or maybe a guard did not protect her from a free-roaming bird...She truly was so merciless that either scenario could have been reason enough for Cora to rip out a heart.

Nonetheless, Regina took the heart out of its box. Holding the red organ beating in her palm, it felt so warm as it sat there and she recanted the spell in her mind and waved her hand. It wasn't long before a glow surrounded the heart and started pulling towards its host. She saddled Rocinante and followed the pull of his heart. She left without a word to anyone, as her mind was filled with nothing but the desire to get her revenge. Her palms had itched all night long, her magic flowing through her, just begging her to use it. She had not used her powers in such a long time but she was ready to scorch Robin Hood's skin, turn him inside out, make him bleed and scream for mercy for what he had done to Daniel.

When the pull stopped, she was not the latest surprised to find where he had been hiding. A tavern, of course. Where men like, thieves like him would typically hang out. She entered the building and soon she could sense the eyes of everyone in the room on her, and she could not help the shiver that ran down her spine. At first, she thought she might have been in such a hurry to find the man who told her mother about Daniel's whereabouts, that perhaps she she had forgotten to dress herself appropriately when she had cast the changing spell on herself. Thankfully when she peered down, she noticed she was well-covered in an elegant deep purple dress that hugged her curves deliciously. However, regal and a bit sexy she knew she was sticking out like a sore thumb amongst the rowdy patrons. Regina scanned the room, but could not find the man she was looking for.

She walked over to the bar, catching the attention of the barkeep, "Excuse me. I'm looking for someone by the name of Robin Hood. Could you help me?''
"And why should I tell you anything, miss?" He replied with a cocky grin, as his eyes wandered down her body.
She could feel his eyes roam her body and it made her skin crawl. Of course, all men seemed to want from her was her body and they never seemed to care what her wishes were. She hated the feeling of their eyes on her, it felt like slime oozing all over her. ''Come here...'' She whispered in his ear, her voice lowered almost purring.
Her finger hooked his collar, bringing him closer to her. He grinned and licked his lips, obviously believing she had something else in mind, as she had leaned in. She smirked, ''You will tell me where I can find him, or I burn this place to the ground.'' Her palms were already feeling warmer with every passing minute when he didn't reply.
"W-what?"
She smiled sweetly and raised her unoccupied hand to show the small flame in the palm of her hand. The bartender's eyes went wide with shock and his jaw dropped open, he nodded his head. ''Ok, ok. Upstairs in the inn above 'ere, third door on your left."
''Thank you. That wasn't so hard now, was it?''
She released her grip and he stumbled back, still too afraid to look away from her, watching as she swayed her hips on her way towards the stairs.

Her footsteps were quiet against the wood as she made her way up, and when she reached the third door, she could feel her heart thump in her chest and her palms were once again warming up. She was going to make him pay, hurt him just as much as he had hurt her. Her hand moved to the door, pushing it open so hard that she could not believe it was still holding on the hinges. When her eyes met the man sitting on the edge of his bed, he jumped up and smiled at her. The audacity, the fucking nerve, the...

''Glenn...'' She breathed, confused.
''Regina!'' His eyes lit up and he moved closer to her. Stopping only a few inches in front of her.
She was even more confused now, she looked down at the heart in her hand, then back at the man. Her mind was spinning, trying to make sense of what was going on, why the hell did her spell lead her to Glenn? It hit her like a ton of bricks. She knew him or at least she thought she did...he had done this to her. But why? Her heart felt heavy, and her legs were like jelly, threatening to give out from underneath her. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. "Glenn... You're Robin Hood, aren't you?"
He looked down, biting his lip and nodding. "So I've come to find out after regaining my memories.''
He shuffled in the awkward silence noticing she was holding a heart, soon understanding it was his own.

"I see you know about my first and last meeting with your mother?'' He asked pointing at the heart she was holding.
"I do." She replied, her eyes dark and cold.
"Regina, I know it doesn't change what I did. I wanted to stop it all from happening the moment the words had left my mouth. I wanted to take it back so badly. I'm sorry, I just couldn't let Roland lose his father too.''
She could see the pain in his eyes and it nearly broke her. But she just could not find it in her to forgive what he had done. This was not Glenn, this was not the man she had come to care for back in Storybrooke, no. This was Robin Hood, a thief, a man who she barely knew and all he had done since she had known him was cause her pain and suffering. "I'm sorry. That's all you have to say about the whole thing. Sorry. Do you think a simple sorry is enough to fix this?" She shook her head, a small scoff left her lips. "Daniel is dead because of you. Because you couldn't keep your mouth shut. The last time this happened was, at least you could blame the fact that she was a naive little girl. But YOU. I've sacrificed my whole life for you all, helping you get your memories back by breaking the curse I worked so hard to cast and this is how I am repaid.''

"I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I swear, I came here looking for you. Things just didn't go according to plan.''
"Well, it's too late for that now, isn't it?''
"I'm begging you, please, let me explain. Please, just hear me out, I know it's a lot to ask of you right now.''
''Why don't you just leave me alone? You've done enough already. Just go back to Storybrooke, go be a hero there. Here, I have no need for heroes or thieves for I am a Villain in this Realm and all others.''
He rambled on about her not being a villain but she couldn't bring herself to actually listen to what he had to say. No, she didn't want to hear another word. The rage was fueling the fire inside her, literally. Before she could stop herself, her hands shot forward, pushing him into the wall. His back hit hard against the stone wall, his lungs expelling air from the force.

"How dare you?!'' Her hands were still glowing red, her fingers tingling.
She could see his lips moving but his words did not reach her ears. Instead, her hand moved, wrapping itself around his neck, and squeezed. ''I want you to feel my pain. I want you to hurt just as much as I have.'' She pushed his heart back into its rightful place in his chest. Wanting him to truly and fully feel the pain.
He gasped for air, his eyes filling with tears, and her own welled up, but the rage kept them from falling. Even through the pain, he couldn't help but feel a sense of peace when his heart was returned, warmth and colour returning to his life. Regina could not see past the pain and the anger. ''You see, I truly am just as everyone says, Evil.'' She smiled devilishly, catching a glimpse of her reflection in the broken pieces of mirror on the floor. Only to be terrified of what she saw, her mother. She had become the very person she had said she would never turn out to be. Her eyes were filled with fear, and her skin had paled. She backed away, and her legs finally gave out.

Robin gasped for breath but rushed to her side when he was strong enough to do so and pulled her in his arms. She could not stop the tears as they fell, not quite understanding how she had almost killed one of the people who truly cared about her. When she tilted her head up to look at him, all she could see was his pained expression and the dark bruises forming on his neck. She had done that. She had almost killed him.

"I'm so sorry.'' She sobbed.
''No, I'm sorry Regina.'' He said, his voice a bit hoarse.
"Why aren't you mad at me? I tried to kill you.''
He pulled her close to his chest, running his fingers through her hair and sighed. "Because I love you. And I have for a very long time now, I just was too much of a coward to own up to it. You are the most brave, beautiful and strong woman I've ever met. Nothing could ever change that, I just wish I would have told you sooner.''
Her heart fluttered and a smile formed on her lips. She looked up at him, and he wiped her tears away. "Really?"
"Yes. Really. I've wanted to tell you since the day you came to my, well Glenn's cabin the night Emma came into town.''
"Oh, yeah. I forgot about that night, I threw myself at you and you practically pushed me out the door.'' She blushed, embarrassed. She had felt like such an idiot that night standing in front of the door to his cabin, eyes red and soaked from the pouring rain.
He chuckled, ''Trust me, I wanted nothing more than to have you to be with you that night, but not like that. I knew something was troubling you, and I didn't want it to seem like I was taking advantage of you when you were hurting. I would have never forgiven myself if I did."
She couldn't believe it, and she certainly could not believe that her feelings had been reciprocated for so long. They were both fools, neither one brave enough to say anything.

"I would have loved to have been with you that night, not necessarily to sleep with you but just you know, for you to hold me.'' She replied, her voice low.
"We'll just have to make up for that then. I will hold you every night for as long as you'll let me.''
She smiled, but it soon faded when she looked down to where he was fiddling with her fingers. Her eyes landed on the diamond ring and remembered that she was now married, a Queen once more and that none of this would be possible for her. Not while her mother was still in charge. She would never be free, and she would always be controlled.

"We can't, you've met my mother and you know I am married to King Midas now.''
He scoffed, ''That's not a real marriage and we both know it. I promised Henry that I would bring his mother back, and I intend on keeping that promise.''
She could swear her heart gleamed hearing her son's name and the fact that he had been the one to ask Robin to come and save her. "How is my little prince?"
"He misses you and is very worried, but otherwise, he's a brave little man. You should be proud."
"I am. Everyday." Her eyes prickled and her bottom lip trembled.
"You will see him again. We'll make it out of this mess, and we'll go back home. I promise. Now, what do you say we find our way out of here?''
He helped Regina get up lending his hand for her to hold onto, and pulled her into a hug. Kissing the top of her head. Her big brown eyes looked up at him through her thick black lashes. ''And how do you suppose we do that?''
''The Storybook, I should have it here somewhere. Perhaps it will have the answers we need."
Rummaging through the room was without success, the book was nowhere to be found.

''Bullocks,'' Robin mumbled, the vision of the book lying open on Regina's bedroom floor back at the castle was etched into his mind. He had completely forgotten that it was still there.
''We should go back and get it. It might still be in my chambers." Regina suggested.
He nodded his head, ''It's a start, but what about your mother?''
''I can handle my mother...but she can't know I let you get away scot-free. So I need-'' She pointed at his chest, ''that back.''
He understood and agreed, the last thing he wanted was for Cora to find out about Regina and him. Neither of them would be safe from that situation.

''As you wish, Your Majesty, but there's something I would very much like to do before that happens.''
She quirked a brow, ''And what's that?"
''This...'' His eyes dropped to her lips, and before she could react his lips were upon hers, gently caressing and exploring hers.
Regina felt the warmth spread through her body, a feeling of electricity shooting through her veins, and a moan escaped her lips. It was a passionate kiss that such emotion and she could not help but melt into his arms. ''I just wanted to feel you before I give you my heart again. I've waited too long for this, and it is everything I imagined and more."
Her eyes fluttered open and she grinned, her heart soaring. ''Do you trust me?'' She asked.
''Always...'' He huffed out a breath, readying himself for the pain.
She gently placed her hand over his chest and pushed her palm inward. Robin's knees buckled and he grunted. Closing his eyes he tried his best to breathe through the pain.

When the organ was extracted from his chest, his breathing calmed and he looked at Regina with such love and devotion. He would have done anything for her. Her thumb ran over the red muscle and she smiled. "You know only an idiot would trust the Evil Queen with their heart, right?''
He laughed, ''Perhaps, but I think I also have hers?''
She blushed and her eyes widened. ''Y-you do?"
"I hope so."
She simply smiled shyly at him before turning on her heel and making her way out of the room. She knew how she felt about him, but admitting to that was scary. The ''L word'' was something that frightened her, even more with her mother still lurking about and controlling her life. For all she knew, Cora had been watching her this whole time. But Robin made her feel things, things she never thought possible. She wanted so desperately to just give in and fall completely, but she didn't know if she was ready. She would never be good enough for him, she was after all a Villain. And Villains don't get happy endings...

**
Regina pushed open the doors to her room and was surprised to see Cora sitting on the edge of the bed waiting for her. "So...how was your meeting with the prince of thieves?'' Cora sneered, a wicked smile forming on her lips.
"I don't believe it's any of your business but if you must know, I've decided to keep this for myself." She replied, rolling her eyes, and waved her hand making Robin's heart appear in her palm.
She tried her best to school her features, her mother would easily sniff out her lies but this time she wasn't lying. She did take his heart and it was hers. "That's my girl." Cora beamed.
Regina smirked. "Now if you would please excuse me, I'm rather exhausted."
Cora got up and walked up to the door. "Of course. But perhaps you would sleep better with the King by your side."
Regina shook her head. "Not tonight. I just need to rest.''
"Fine, but remember that the kingdom will never approve of you if you don't perform your duties."
She rolled her eyes, "Yes, Mother."
"Good. Oh and Regina, please don't forget to put the heart away properly. We wouldn't want the kingdom to find out their Queen has a habit of ripping out hearts, now would we?'' Cora said with a sweet smile, the threat obvious.
Regina glared at her and shook her head no.

When the door closed behind her mother, she could not help but sigh. She hated playing this game. She looked down at the organ in her hand and smiled. At least, she had something worth fighting for now. She put Robin's glowing heart in a trinket box she emptied and placed it atop her nightstand. She managed to find the book underneath the lounging chaise, it must have been pushed or kicked there during the altercation between Robin and her mother. Regina flipped the pages, in an attempt to find answers, but instead, all she found was that most of the pages were blank. Not understanding, she spent most of the night trying to puzzle things back together. There had to be a way out of here, she NEEDED to get out of here. She wanted nothing more but to go home.

A tear escaped her eye, sliding down her cheek, falling and hitting the blank pages. Soon after, the ink started seeping through the parchment and new words and drawings formed. A way to escape... '' I hope you find this message, and I hope Robin has managed to find you. Emma and I have found a way back, but it means casting another curse to break yours. Your sacrifice came from a place of great love and selflessness, so in return, Mr. Gold says you need to make a different kind of sacrifice, one from true hate. But I don't think you should, there must be another way without killing anyone. I can't risk losing you to the darkness again, you've come too far. Love you, Henry.'' The words erased before her very eyes, but remained etched inside her mind. They were all she could think about, her eyes felt heavy and she fought hard to not fall asleep but soon succumbed to her exhaustion. Still, in the lounge chair, her head fell back as she held on tightly to the book.

Her dreams were plagued by nightmares, voices echoing inside her mind. "You're just a silly girl. Always wanting what you can't have." Her mother's voice reminded her of the fact that she could not be with the man she truly loved.
"You are not my wife, and you will never be her." King Midas's words rang in her ears.
''You're not my real mom!" Henry's hurtful words swirled her mind, plaguing her.
''I killed him just like you killed my wife!'' Robin's words were the most painful of all.
The voices became louder and louder, the images swirling. She woke up with a start, her clothes clinging to her sweat-soaked body. The book had fallen to the floor, the reason for her rude awakening. Her eyes went wide, realizing the time, the sun had not yet risen.

The only thing she could hear was her heart thumping loudly inside her chest, a shiver ran down her spine. The voices from her dream were all the things people had never truly voiced about her but were true. She was just a silly girl who could never be happy because she was unworthy of love. She had brought all of this pain and unhappiness to others. Her hands trembled and her palms grew warm, the rage fueling the fire inside her. ''I truly am, Evil...''
The flames shot out from her palms incinerating everything around her.

The room was fully engulfed in flames, and Regina stood in the center, surrounded by the blaze, but did not feel a thing. She could hear her mother's voice. "Don't just stand there, you useless girl!'' It was not in her head, her mother was there, standing in the arch of the door.
She could not feel a thing, she was numb and her eyes were empty. Cora magicked them both out of the room before either of them became a pile of ash, like the remainder of the furniture. "What is the meaning of this, Regina?"
Regina scoffed, "Oh, this is exactly who you wanted me to be!''
"Really? Do you think I want you to burn down everything I've worked so hard for, all my hard work wasted because you cannot control yourself? How can you be so selfish?'' Cora shouted.
"Me, selfish? Really, you have done nothing but make sure I would grow up to become this...this...Monster. Just like you, Mother!"
"Oh, how dare you! How DARE you! You will pay for this insolence. You will watch as everything you hold dear turns to dust.''
''I have nothing left to lose, Mother. If you haven't noticed, I've already lost so much...because of you.'' Regina said, her voice cold.
"You have no idea the lengths I have gone through to make sure you become the Queen that the people want. They will never accept a Queen who bears another lover, especially a thief.'' Her words stung like venom, her eyes cold and hard. Before Regina could defend the man her mother was implying to, he appeared before her as Cora magicked him there.

Robin looked down, noticing the lack of space between him and the Queen. His heart leaped, and he couldn't help but grin. Unaware of the true reason he was brought here so suddenly. "Regina...'' His eyes were full of life.
Regina swallowed on dry, there was no way she could convince her mother he held no importance now. The way they looked at each other spoke volumes. "You see Regina, a mother knows best about what is good for her child and I think we both know that you are to listen to me. Do as I ask and run along back to your husband, the King. Because it would be such a shame if something were to happen to this thief."
''You can't hurt him.'' She said confidently, knowing his heart was in a trinket box in her room upstairs...In the same room, she had set on fire, defeat soon set up inside her.

Cora's brows quirked up, and a menacing laugh followed. "Oh, darling, you'd think you would have done a better job protecting such a precious thing. I would never forget something so... useful.'' The trinket box appeared in her other palm, opening it.
"Mother, please." She pleaded, her bottom lip quivering.
"What is this? Begging. Pathetic. You will learn that no matter what happens, I will always be there to clean up your messes.'' Cora took the red pulsing organ from the ceramic box and moved in front of Robin who was still unable to move per whatever magic spell she had cast on him.

As she had done once before she started to squeeze, Robin gasped for air. "No. Please don't do this, please."
Cora ignored her daughter's pleas and squeezed the glowing heart. "I can see why my daughter has grown so attached to you, so willing to give out your heart. Best be careful about who you hand these kinds of things to. Love can make anyone do absolutely stupid things.'' Cora wore a wide grin as she spoke. The words slithered through her teeth, like a snake seeping poison into its prey.
She continued squeezing and his eyes fluttered shut. His knees buckled. He was able to breathe out a few last words before he felt the last beat of his heart, ''Write your own story, Regina. You are the hero in mine, now be the hero in yours.'' His eyes fluttered and his body collapsed on the hard stone.
The ash of his crushed organ poured next to his cold and stiff body. Regina rushed to his side, finally able to move. She tried her best to bring him back, kissing him hard but without success, he remained lifeless in her arms.

"Robin... Please wake up. Don't leave me. Please.'' She sobbed, her tears falling on his face, rolling down his cheeks.
Cora laughed. ''Enough of this crying, Regina. Collect yourself and make your way back to your husband and apologize to him for the mess you have made. When will you ever learn that love is weakness?''
Regina tried to compose herself like a Queen, but with a deep breath, her eyes shot wide open her anger building inside her. She felt the power flowing through her, a power she had felt before. The fire lighting within her like never before, she yelled out ''I'm not weak!''. A burst of magic flew from her palms throwing Cora back. She had never been able to out-magic her mother, feeling stronger than she had ever felt before. However, she knew this magic was not very controlled, it was dangerous magic.

Fuelled by hate and anger she needed to avenge all the people she had let down, her father, Daniel, Robin and even herself. She managed to hold her mother with the magic up in the air, the way she used to be held when being punished for disobeying. Her hands trembled as the magic flowed through her body. Cora was gasping for air, but Regina did not care. All she saw was red. She needed her mother to feel her pain. ''I will have my happy ending mother, even if it means killing you!'' Even though she was unable to kill her mother right at this moment, because everyone knew she never carried her heart in its rightful place. She still felt the slight victory within this exchange, when her mother's eyes widened at her daughter's threatening words.

''Regina!'' A man's familiar voice called out. King Midas made his way over to them and Regina noticed it right away sitting in the palm of his hand, her mother's darkened heart. He hands the dark red organ to Regina, ''It is only fair that you get to choose your own path, whether it is with me or not.''
Regina looked between him and her mother, unsure what to do. She knew he had given her the opportunity to kill her mother once and for all, but would she have been able to live with herself afterward knowing that she was as terrible a monster as she was? Regina paced around, unsure what to do. Her eyes landed on Robin laying on the cold stone, unmoving his blue eyes still open and staring into her but the pulse of the heart that was now in her palm, reminded her that she was the one in control for once. She could end it all. "She won't do it.'' Her mother tutted.
And that was all it took to push her over the edge, bringing her right back to her Evil Queen self. She closed her palm, squeezing the organ slowly, ensuring the pain could truly be felt.

''I have been waiting so long for you to understand that I deserve to be loved and cared for but most of all for you to see me as good enough. To be good enough for Cora Mills, but without fail you reminded me that I would never and could never be just that. Until, now.'' Regina's nails dug deeper into the beating organ, her mother squirming under the painful touches.
''I want you to feel the pain you put me through. I want you to feel how useless and powerless I felt anytime you used magic to control or punish me for 'disobeying'. Treating me like a pet or a possession, more than you ever treated me as your daughter, or a human no less.''
As Regina continued, her grasp around her mother's heart was only getting tighter. Cora could only make loud gasping sounds and similar noises as she tried to breathe steadily.

''All I ever did was TRY to be the perfect daughter for you. Ride like a lady, dress up in these god-awful gowns and parade myself to the royals, like an expensive whore. Lastly, I married the King for title and riches instead of love. But that still wasn't enough, you needed to rid any sense of happiness I've ever had. Father, Daniel, Rocinante and now Robin...You are the only person I have left and when I am at my lowest, all you do is laugh and brush away my misery and pain. I love you mother, I always have but as you've taught me...Love is weakness, and loving you is my biggest weakness.'' She squeezed so hard, her mother's eyes filled with tears. Regina's lip trembled, and her eyes watered but she didn't allow them to fall.
Her eyes moved to look back at Robin, her heartbreaking once more. He had become such a huge part of her life, even though they'd only known each other for a short while. But she loved him, he had thought her to be better than this.

The man had seen her at her worst and yet still fought for her. His last words reminded her that she was the one in control of her own story. She would not be the villain in this tale. Her eyes met with her mother and Regina pushed the heart back in her chest. Her mother gasped for air, coughing as the pain from the pressure had begun to subside. Cora reached for her daughter, wrapping her arms around her. "I'm sorry, Regina. For everything I have done." She cried, pulling Regina closer.

Chapter Text

Regina couldn't find it in herself to wrap her arms around her mother, not yet. She was not ready to forgive and forget all the awful things her mother had done. But, perhaps, they could start anew. With her heart back, maybe Cora would realize how important a mother's relationship with their daughter is.
"If it isn't too late, I may be able to help you with him.'' She gestured towards Robin's body.
Regina nodded her head, tears still pooling in her eyes. "But the only way out is by using the heart of the person I hate most and...''
''I know what it means, darling, but we can't keep you here. You deserve much more than this life. Besides, your son misses you, and we can't have him raised by the insufferable Charming's.'' Cora joked.
Regina's mouth turned into a small smile. The thought of seeing Henry again made her heart race.

"My little prince does deserve better than being raised by those two idiots.'' She agreed, laughing back a sob.
Cora smiled, her hand resting gently on her daughter's cheek, swiping a tear away. "Then it is settled. You shall have what you've always wanted, my whole heart.'' Cora pushed her hand inside her own chest and pulled out the rather dark organ. Cora's eyes went wide, a gasp escaped her lips as it was ripped from her body and handed over to her daughter.
She could not believe her mother was actually doing this, willingly giving her the organ so she could have her happy ending.

"Mother, are you sure?" Regina asked, her brow quirked.
"Yes, of course, my sweet girl. I may be many things, but I do know right from wrong. Now, do what you must and save that thief of yours.''
"Thank you, Mother.'' It felt surreal, that her mother was finally doing something selfless. Regina couldn't help but pull her in for a hug.
"Just promise me, you won't let anyone get in the way of your happiness again." Cora smiled.
Regina nodded. "I won't.'' She could barely make out words, her heart thumping wildly in her chest.

Regina waved her hand, and the Storybook appeared in front of her, opened to a blank page. She was ready to write her own story. All the ingredients gathered in front of her, an inkwell and quill, a bit of dragon's blood and her mother's heart. The tightening in her chest as she held the beating organ, her mind raced, thinking of what she was about to do.
Was she truly about to sacrifice her mother now? After finally gaining her trust and forgiveness, to get her happy ending?
What kind of person would that make her?
Doubt clouded her mind, but the look her mother gave her assured her it would all be alright. Yet something still didn't feel right, something was very, very wrong.

If she went through with this, she would just feed into the darkness she tried her best to push down. Become the one person she has worked so hard to no longer be, the very same selfish, cold, broken and evil person she once was, The Evil Queen. Regina knew this was not the way out. Robin, Henry and she would be disgusted by her if she chose to use her mother's heart to escape. A curse to end all curses. Regina looked back at her mother, her bottom lip trembling. The price has been paid, for a lesson learnt today is that no good can come from sacrificing another. Regina looked back at her mother, her bottom lip trembling.

Despite everything her mother had put her through, she could not say she hated her. She loved her even more now, knowing her mother would give up her life just so she could have a happy ending. Her mind sent her back into a memory once forgotten, the one true person she had hated most. Regina had cast a spell in pure hatred years ago, and no, it was not the Dark Curse...A spell meant to aid her in finding her second chance, a chance at finding True Love once more, but as Regina often did, she took that second chance and destroyed it with her anger and hate.
Changing the spell to be fueled by hatred instead of love was the first mistake. The moment the spell had directed her to the person she hated most had been the second mistake. Regina stood in front of her mirror, staring back at her reflection.
The person she hated most was none other than herself. She had been the one who ruined everything, who took every chance of being happy and crushed it with her bare hands.

Regina looked back at her mother, her bottom lip trembling. Taking a deep breath, her decision was set in stone. She had never been more sure about something as her eyes connected with Robin's form. He was destined for better, was meant for a world of love and to live out his full story with his son. It was clearer now than it had ever been, her decision was made.
She dipped the quill in the inkwell, a few drops dripping onto the paper, and with a shaky hand, she began to write:
A curse to end all curses.
A lesson learnt today is that no good can come from sacrificing another.
For love is strength, not weakness. And the truest form of it is shown through a pure and selfless act.
A life of hatred for a life of happiness. A final price to pay, done out of love for others.
For once, pain, loneliness and hate are wiped away for a world of peace in a place without the Evil Queen.
A place for new and old stories alike. Where they can live happily ever after...
Tears rolled down her cheeks, and her bottom lip trembled.

Dropping the quill, she did what had to be done. Pulling her heart out and crushing it rapidly, she did so that no one could stop her, not even herself. She had chosen this to save them and to save herself from what she knew was lingering inside her. The darkness, the monster that would always be there. A piece of her that would forever reside inside.
The ashes of her crushed heart seeped through her well-manicured fingers. Before her vision went blurry, and her body felt numb. She heard screams and shouts from around her. Everything slowly losing its colour until all that was left was black.

**
Quiet. For once in her life, everything around her was quiet, but not eerie or uncomfortable. Peace surrounded her; her mind was no longer racing or thinking a million thoughts a minute. A calmness washed over her, and it felt so good.
The world around her was still black, but it was in no way alarming. Instead, she could feel the warmth inside her. She could hear every beat of her heart, every breath she took in and out and the gentle pulse of the blood running through her veins.

The voices inside her head no longer plagued her, her mother's voice no longer telling her she was not good enough, the Dark One's reminding her that she was just a pawn in his plans, Henry's no longer accusing her of not being his real mom and Robin's no longer blaming her for all the death caused, including that of his wife.
Instead, the voices were replaced by ones filled with hope, joy and love. The voice of her son, Henry, who called her 'Mom' and said he loved her. Her mother's voice joined her father's in saying how proud of them they were.
Rumple's voice said he chose her because he knew just how strong she was.
And Robin's voice called out to her, reminding her that he had always seen the hero that lived inside her.

**
Slowly, Regina's senses filled with comforting familiarity; the smell of roses tingled as she breathed in, the sounds of birds chirping and wind whistling through the trees. The soft gleam of light, like rays of sun coming in through the slats of blinds that cover a window, filling the room, reaching her body and warming it ever so tenderly.
Her eyes opened, fixed on the white ceiling above her, the sunlight that peered through the window casting on her frame as her head lay on the plush silk pillows underneath her. The sound of a car horn outside and people talking, cars and birds chirping. She appreciated the smell of her rose-scented perfume on her body, the same she had worn for as long as she could remember.

Regina sat up straight and looked around her. Sitting in her bed, her eyes surveyed every inch of the room, the pictures that hung atop the dresser on the other end of the room, the tall mirror right next to it and the lack of warmth in the spot next to hers in bed.
This morning had felt different for Regina, she had been so used to the hustle and bustle of her busy work life as Mayoress of Hyperion Heights.
Every day was spent at City Hall, meeting and greeting residents and the usual drama of a busy town. She had no idea how long she'd been sleeping in, but she had never felt so refreshed. She rarely dreamt, her mind often too occupied, but last night was different.
Regina couldn't remember much of the dream, but she recalled the smell of pine and leather, the feeling of warmth and love. It was such a stark contrast to her normal routine and daily life. She appreciated the comfort and tranquillity, wishing she could have stayed in whatever dream realm that was. With an extra spring in her step, Regina made her way to ready herself for the day, showering and applying her makeup.

As she was applying her lipstick, a knocking sound made itself heard from the front door. Regina's brows knitted; not sure who would come by at such an early hour. She walked through the large halls of her penthouse suite and down the stairs. The knocking was getting louder and faster as she moved closer. ''I'm coming. Hold on.'' She grumbled.
Upon opening the door, her breath hitched when a teenage boy slammed into her, wrapping his arms around her frame. "Mom! You're okay.'' He said, his face still squished into her body.
Regina didn't wrap her arms in reply to the boy's actions but didn't push him back. Her heart thumped, the mayoress had always had a soft spot for children. A smile graced her lips, the warmth spreading throughout her entire being.

"We've been looking for you!" The boy pulled back and looked at her, his face a little shocked, probably noticing she was not acting the way he'd expected her to.
Only then did she notice the boy was not alone; a taller man stood behind the teen. His dimpled smile and bright blue eyes sparkled as his gaze met her dark brown eyes. She could gaze into these eyes forever, he felt so comforting. The way her heart fluttered and skipped a beat made her wonder if she knew him. "I'm sorry, but who are you? And who is this Mom you seem to be looking for?"
"What are you talking about? It's me. Henry. Your son." The teen said, looking a little worried.
"Mom, do you not remember us?"
Regina took a step back, her eyes darting between the two boys. She couldn't shake the thought that they were both so achingly familiar. The memory of neither of them seemed to come to her of them having met before.

''No, I've never met you...I'm R-''
''Regina. We know you, and you know us. Mom, we've been looking for you for years. Storybrooke needs you back.''
Regina laughed; everyone around knew her. They could have simply asked anyone around town and gotten her name and address quite easily. "Storybrooke? There's no such place.''
"Yes, there is. Look, I can show you.''
Regina watched as the boy pulled out a large coffee-coloured leather book from his backpack. He flipped through a few pages and then turned the book towards her. ''Here. This is you.''
After a few minutes, he flipped a bit further into the book and showed her the picture of a woman and a young boy, "And this is us.'' His eyes watched her every movement, she could tell he hoped something would 'click.'
Regina's eyes widened, and her heart pounded; the woman and boy on the page looked like slightly younger versions of both of them.

''But I've never been to this 'Storybrooke.' I don't remember or recognize any of these people, and I would like to think I would remember having a son?''
"But-'' Much too soon, all hopefulness she had seen in his regard was gone. Shattered, wiped away, and it broke her heart a little bit.
Robin stepped forward, taking the book from Henry and handing it to Regina, giving her a reassuring smile. ''All we ask, Milady, is for you to take a look through this book. I assure you, there is much you need to learn about yourself, your life and who you are. All this may seem crazy, but on my honour, the boy is telling you the truth.''
Regina's fingers ran along the worn leather cover, a small gold lettering on the top saying, 'Once Upon a Time.'
"And why should I believe any of this?" Despite the feeling inside her that told her to trust them, her mind was fighting against it. Her eyes met Robin's once more.

''Because, Milady, we were once cursed to forget, and that was the worst fate of them all. Living a story that is not truly yours. I swore I would help you get your second chance, and help you remember the life you are meant to live. For I owe you my life. You are truly one of the most remarkable women I have ever met, Regina and I would hate to see you live a life where you do not get the happy ending you truly deserve."
The warmth radiating off of the man, the familiarity and the love in his eyes, made her feel a pull towards him. Something inside her told her he was telling her the truth. But could she take that leap of faith and believe this? Believe them?
"Okay." She said, her voice low.
"You believe us?" Henry asked, his eyes lighting up once more.
"I don't know if I can say that quite yet...but I want to. Come inside, please.'' Regina moved aside, allowing them entry into her home.

As Henry went inside and Robin followed soon behind, his hand grazed hers, the touch sending sparks through her body. "Thank you for giving us a chance." He whispered as he walked by her. His warm, sweet breath against her ear and neck made the hairs on her skin stand up. That voice, the familiarity of it coming back to her. Recognizing it as one of the voices she had heard in her dream. Could it have been more than just that?
Regina nodded and smiled back, "My pleasure."
Her stomach fluttered, the butterflies dancing around as he smiled back. She hoped the boy was right and she could find the happiness that was meant for her.

Even more pleased if the man sitting in front of her in the living room of her large and empty penthouse would be the one who could give it to her. And for the first time in a long while, Regina decided to place her trust in the two strangers sitting before her. Looking back at her with such hope and love. Could she be the very same woman they wanted her very much to be? She knew it was not possible, but every fibre of her being hoped she was.

Chapter Text

Regina's hands trembled. She held the book open on her lap as she flipped through the pages. The young man sat next to her, recounting each tale he could remember. She listened intently, her heart pounding faster with every word. Could she really have been this awful? Hearing about the countless lives taken, the merciless towns and villages burnt down, and the deaths of the people closest to her. She did not recall a single moment of any of it. It sounded like the ramblings of a madman, but deep down, she knew it was true. Had she erased her memories to rid herself of all the evil she had done?

Henry stopped, turning his attention back to the woman. Noticing the tears forming in the corners of her eyes. "Are you okay, Mom?" He asked a worried tone in his voice.
Regina didn't lift her eyes, instead, her gaze remained on the image of the woman on the page. The tight and long black ponytail cascaded down the form-fitted black leather dress she wore. The look finished off with a tall black beaded headpiece and a deep red lip. It was her.
But… not her.
She frowned as her fingers grazed the edges of the page. It feels familiar. Oddly familiar.

“This isn’t possible.”
A tear rolled down her cheek. How could this be happening? She was not the Evil Queen, was she? ''How could someone have loved her? I mean, she was so awful.''
Henry reached out, his hand placed gently over her own. The action made Regina finally look up. Her eyes locked with his. The boy had the kindest, warmest and most caring hazel eyes. ''You were, but you changed. For me...for us. Showed us you could change. You were good. I know you still are.'' He gave her a soft smile.
"Mom, we just have to remind you of that."
"Remind me how? By making me relive everything I did and seeing what kind of monster I was and am?"

Robin moved to sit on the arm of the sofa next to her and placed a hand on her shoulder in an attempt to comfort her. "Regina, you were not a monster. You were just a person who needed someone to love you like you deserved to be loved. You showed us all the hero you could be. A hero is not someone who has not faced darkness and evil. It is a person who knows the struggle of it and has conquered it. Someone who has felt pain and hurt and has found a way to move on, despite it all.''
Regina's eyes lifted, connecting with his. The look was so full of love, admiration and sincerity. It made her heart swell. "He's right, Mom. You said it best: A Villain is not born; it's made. And you proved to us that the same thing can be said about heroes.''
Regina let out a breath and closed the book, placing it on the coffee table in front of her. ''Henry, I wish I could believe you, but this all seems so surreal. I mean, I would have thought that if it were real, something would have jogged my memory, even a little.''

Henry's gaze fell from her face, and he looked down at the floor. He could not believe that after all this time, she had still not remembered anything. His eyes moved to Robin, hoping the older man would have thought up something to make her remember. He could see a twinkle in Robin's eye, the hint of a smirk appearing on his face. "May I try something?" He asked, looking at Regina.
"I guess..."
Regina watched as Robin got up and took her hands in his, inviting her to stand with him. ''Let's see if your heart can remember something your mind forgot.''
Her heart quickened as he pulled at her hands to bring her closer.

Robin's face inches away from hers- it all happened so soon. The feeling of his soft, full lips pressed against her own. The scent of pine, leather and campfire surrounded her, reminding her of something, no, someone she once loved. A bright beam of light filled the room. With her eyes still closed tightly, the images flashed through her mind. Henry watched as it all unfolded, ''Of course, True Love's kiss.''
Regina saw memories flash before her. Of a time when she had lived a different life. Memories of a Queen broken by a life of pain and loneliness. A time when her heart had been cold and her soul, dark. Soon soothed by memories of the first time she held Henry, her little Prince. Memories of a shared life in a town in Maine, a place called Storybrook. A town she had created with a curse she had cast, sacrificing the one she loved most, her father. Memories of breaking of that very same curse she had cast. Cursing herself in return. Then reconnecting with a very familiar bandit with a warm British accent and a kind smile, a dimpled one at that.

The memories continued to flow into her mind. Regina stepped back slightly, but Robin kept hold of her. His hands were on her hips, not wanting to break the contact. The very same man from her memories who had stolen her heart then was doing the same once again. ''Robin...How am I here? I remember the sting as a crushed my heart and then-''
''Shhh. It's alright now, love. You're here. We found you. Henry and I have been looking for you ever since we were brought back to Storybrooke. I didn't know anything that happened after, you know...But then your mother came knocking on my door one night. Informing me that you were not in Storybrooke, that you had crushed your heart. Casting the Dark Curse once more, saving me and everyone else.'' He said while his fingers carded through her hair.
''I had to, Robin. I couldn't leave Roland without his father, and I knew you deserved a better life than the one I had cursed you all with. Henry deserves his best chance. This town deserved better. The world deserves to have the Evil Queen gone. No more pain and death. Everyone has been through enough, they don't need me destroying it all again.''
''No, Regina, we found you because the people of Storybrooke need you. We need you back. To have our Mayor, the mother to our sons and the woman who loves us unconditionally back. The people need their Queen back, Regina. You deserve a chance at your happy ending just like you gave us all a second chance at ours.''

Tears rolled down Regina's cheeks, her eyes connecting with Henry's. The boy, no, the young man, had grown so much. A few inches taller, his face no longer rounded, his jawline becoming sharper. She could tell she had missed so much already, and she was not ready to miss more because of her fear that people would not welcome her back with open arms. ''Come back home, Mom. Let's get your happy ending.'' Henry moved to stand next to her, a smile gracing his features.
''Please, Regina. Come home with us.'' Robin pleaded, lending his hand to her. Palm facing upwards, inviting her to lace her fingers with his.
''Okay, but you said my mother was there. How is she?''
Robin shuffled uncomfortably, his gaze averted from hers. "I'm sorry, Regina, but the only way we can have you return to Storybrooke is if...well, she has passed away.''
''What! Why would you not tell me before now?'' Regina's voice was shrill, and her bottom lip trembled. She turned away, not wanting him to see the pain in her eyes.

Robin moved closer, his hand caressing her cheek, and he tilted her face, making her look him in the eyes. "She did this for you, Regina. She sent us this.'' He handed her a locket, inside a simple inscription You are enough. A picture of Regina and Cora on the other side.
Robin continued. "She called it the Crimson Pendant. The only way to have you rewritten into Storybrooke was for someone to give up their place. So she gave up hers. A relic sealed by blood, to permit you to return to your life. When you cross the town line, its magic will take effect. You will be written back into Storybrooke."
Regina's tears flowed freely, and her breath became short. Henry moved next to her and wrapped his arm around her, hugging her. "She will still be with you, Mom. Always, she wants to do this because she loves you.''
"Regina, are you willing to go back home? Willing to take this chance? Willing to give yourself the opportunity at love and a family again?"
She closed her eyes, going through every single detail over and over again.

A small nod and a soft sigh escaped her. "Yes. I want to go back."
Robin smiled, "Then let's go home, Milady. There is a whole town full of people waiting for your return.''
Robin lent out his hand, and her hand soon found his. The three moved out of the penthouse suite and hopped into an old black Mercedes. A chance, a risk, a leap of faith, to be reunited with a life and family that was waiting for her back home.
Back to Storybrooke.

**
Regina had been sitting in the car, watching the landscape change. She could see the sun set behind the mountain peaks. It was a rather quiet drive, none of them quite knowing what the appropriate thing to say was to a person who was about to lose her mother without having the chance to say goodbye and also being the reason she would ultimately pass away the minute she crossed that line. Returning home.

A tear escaped her, her mother was the last link to a part of her life she had always yearned for. Cora and Regina's relationship had been less than perfect, and it had taken them a long time to truly reconnect and mend the broken trust. They only had a short amount of time to talk things over in the Realm of Untold Stories before Regina decided to crush her heart, ending her own life. Now that chance was gone, and the only thing she was left with was a small locket that her mother had given her before sending her off.

A hand gently rested on her thigh, and Regina's dark brown eyes met the soft blue ones. "We are almost there, Milady. Only a few more minutes."
"Alright." She said stoicly.
A few minutes later, Robin turned the car onto a small road off the main course, driving until the town line came into view. He stopped the car a few feet from it. His gaze moved back to Regina. ''Are you ready?''
''No, but I need to do this. I need to take that chance, but that does not mean it's any easier.''
''I know, Regina, but you are the strongest woman I've ever met. You can do this. If you're not ready, though, we can wait a little longer. No need to rush. It's been a few years; a little longer won't hurt anyone.''
Regina smiled softly and nodded, a tear escaping. ''I just didn't imagine I'd be taking another life to have my shot at a happy ending of my own...''
''You did try that the first time around, and it didn't seem to work, but this time, it's different. She's the one to make this choice. Don't take away your mother's chance at doing the right thing.'' Robin replied, his voice soft.

Regina bit her lip. "You're right."
"Mom, are you ready?" Henry chimed in, sitting in the backseat.
"Ready as I'll ever be."
Robin placed the car in drive once more, the Mercedes creeping slowly over the line. Regina held onto the locket tightly, pressing it up against her chest, her eyes closed and taking a deep breath in as the car moved closer.

A warm sensation coursed through her veins, the magic returning to her body. Her eyes slowly opened, catching a glimpse of the town sign: Welcome to Storybrooke. A bright smile lit up her face. Her heart felt fuller than ever.
''I am enough. Thank you, Mother, for this second chance.''
They drove further into town. The lights shone brightly in the dark evening sky. Passing by Granny's dinner, the Sherrif's station, the park where Henry and Roland had often played and at the very end of the main street stood a large, white house. Home. A place where she could find a family and have a life with the people she loved.

**
A month later
The Storybrooke skyline stretches before her as Regina stands on the familiar pavement outside her mayoral office. She feels different. Whole. The past few weeks have been overwhelming, but she’s learning. Learning to live again. Learning to heal. Most of all, learning to love properly.

A gentle breeze carries the scent of pine as a voice pulls her from her thoughts. “You’re thinking too much again.'' She turns to find Robin leaning against the door frame, arms crossed, a smirk playing on his lips.
Regina rolls her eyes, but there’s warmth there now—something real. “Old habits die hard,” she admits.
Robin steps closer, his voice softer now. "And what about new habits? Like less thinking and more feeling?"
He moves closer until he is pressed up against her. Her ass gently pushed up against the cold window behind her. His blue eyes sparkle in the bright morning sun, his face inches away from hers. She chuckles. "Like this?"
"Exactly," he whispers, his lips ghosting over hers. ''Or like this.'' His voice is husky as his mouth captures her in a hungry kiss.
His hands find her hips, pulling her flush against him. Regina moans into the kiss, her hands moving up his chest, wrapping her arms around his neck. Her fingers move through his thick brown hair, her nails grazing his scalp, causing him to shiver.

Their tongues explore each other's mouths, dancing against one another. After a few minutes, they finally pull apart, both breathing heavily. ''As much as I enjoy your way of convincing me not to overthink everything, we really shouldn't do this here. Anyone could walk in here, and I have a meeting to get ready for.''
''Alright, Milady, but after your meeting, I'll come and pick you up for dinner at Granny's. Then we can have dessert at home when the boys are safely tucked in bed. What do you say?''
''That sounds perfect. You've got yourself a deal, Mr. Locksley.''
Regina places a hand on his cheek, gently caressing his stubbled skin. He leans into the touch, a smirk playing on his lips. He gives her a quick kiss and walks back out the door, winking at her as he closes the door behind him. A soft giggle escaped her, the sound music to Robin's ears as he made his way back down the hall.

**
That night, they had dinner together at Granny's and returned to the comfort of their home in time for the boy's bedtimes. She watched him carefully as he helped Roland into bed and bid goodnight to Henry, her heart steady, her walls lowered. For the first time in a long while, she doesn’t fear what’s ahead. With this wonderful man by her side, her friends and her two boys she was finally getting her second chance at life. Her happy ending. It was real, and it was hers. And for the first time in a long time, she was able to believe that she truly deserved this.

That she was worthy of the love of her family. That she was enough. Because, in the end, it doesn't matter what happened in the past, the mistakes and the pain. Those same things had made her who she was today and led her to Robin. Now, all that matters is what's right in front of her.

For the first time in a long time, Regina Mills—former Evil Queen—allows herself to believe in a happy ending. Maybe, just maybe… this time, she’d get one.

Chapter Text

Regina woke up in her bed, cuddled up to a warm and naked man, the sheet covering them. The cool air from the window causes a chill to run through her. Her head tilts, not remembering having left that window open. Embarrassed that the neighbours might have overheard some of her rather loud cries of pleasure. Robin, next to her, shivers in his sleep. Goosebumps scattered on his body.
Regina shifts in the bed to close the window.

As she sits up, her gaze finds a pair of eyes, staring right back at hers. Making her heart quicken and her breathing shallow. She defensively pulls the sheets to cover her naked form. Her hand moved instinctively towards the man sleeping next to her, the one person she loved more than anything in this world. ''Don't worry about him, darling. It's you I want. I have been watching you for a long time now, Regina.''
The moonlight cast a glow on the stranger's face. A pale woman with red lips to match her hair, her green eyes shining in the dark. A large emerald pendant hung between her breasts.

"Who the hell are you, and what are you doing in my house?"
"I came to introduce myself. You can call me Zelena, or sissy if you prefer."
"Sissy? Why the hell would I call you that?"
"Oh, didn't dear old mummy tell you about me before you killed her? Pity. I was so looking forward to being part of the family." She said, pouting as though she was sad when she was clearly jesting.
"What do you want?"
"Just thought I'd stop by and check out the competition. See how the Evil Queen could possibly be better fit to cast the Dark Curse than a Wicked Witch."
''What do you want from me? I've never even met you.''

Zelena's lips twist into a sick grin. ''You'll soon find out, Regina, dear. I want you gone, and then Storybrooke will be all mine. For once in my life, I will have what I want and not have everything taken from me. You will finally see what it feels like to have everything you love taken from you.''
"You will not get away with this, Zelena."
"We will see, Regina. Enjoy your happy ending. I can't wait to see how it ends."
With a shrill laugh and a puff of smoke, Zelena was gone, leaving behind only a trail of green smoke. Regina let out a shaky breath and fell back onto the bed, her mind racing with questions. What was she supposed to do? How would she protect the people of Storybrooke from an evil witch who was determined to take everything away from her?

Her thoughts were interrupted by a gentle hand on her arm. "Love, are you okay? What happened?" Robin's voice was thick with sleep.
"Robin... I'm not sure what's happening, but I have a feeling our happy ending is about to take a turn for the worse."
"I'm sure everything is fine, honey. Swan has been getting quite good at magic with your help and with the support from the town. Let's not forget that you have me and the boys and we don't plan on going anywhere without you Regina...Now, close that window and come back to cuddle. It's freezing in here."
Regina gave him a small smile and did as he asked. She moved closer to him, laying her head on his chest, his heartbeat a soothing sound.

Regina would fight, no matter what, to never lose what she had worked so hard to build. She would never give up. She had come too far to go back. "I love you, Robin."
"I love you too, Your Majesty.''
He kissed the top of her head and pulled her closer. They drifted off to sleep, a comfortable silence between them.

In the morning, Regina would figure out how to defeat this new enemy. Tonight, she would focus on the love she had found. The love she shared with the man sleeping beside her, his arm wrapped around her. In his embrace, she found peace. This was nothing but a new chapter, a new adventure was on the horizon; How to defeat the Wicked Witch of the West and keep her family safe?