(((Okay folks, this is the big one. Everything I promised all along. It all comes down to this. Please, let me know what you think. I love hearing back from you. This was most definitely a labor of love from every angle. And dear God this chapter ate my life for several days. I really hope you enjoy. Much lovethings to all)))

The Way It Should Have Been

Chapter Fourteen

Emma awoke from a sweet dream of lying tangled in Regina's arms to the even sweeter reality of that voluptuous body cradled to her own. With a dreamy sigh, the savior continued to play big spoon to the sorceress as bleary jade pools focused on the sheer bra dangling from the headboard where it had landed last night. The sight of the daring and thrilling undergarment stirred the memory of recent passions raising the sheriff's heartbeat. An enthralled hand rose to caress the edges of the fascinating lingerie only to be greeted by a rather coy purr of, "Now is that really what you want to touch or would you prefer what it was supporting?"

With a soft moan at the tempting invitation, Emma's hand lowered to cherishingly stroke up her lover's side as she replied, "Do I have to choose? I have to admit I really enjoyed having my cake and eating it too." Memories of last night's scintillating seduction warmed them both as firm lips pressed lightly to a dainty, tan shoulder. Visions of Emma's skilled mouth taunting tender flesh through the bra as well as the matching panties hitched the queen's breath as she panted lightly, "I enjoyed it as well." A hot flush raced over Regina's chest and neck on a light, effeminate moan as strong, tender hands closed over Her breasts kneading patiently.

"The nylon material was a nice touch," Emma remarked nibbling lightly up towards an elegant neck. Stretching the sensitive flesh to unfold under Her lover's attentions Regina moaned softly, "Yes, it was." Soft pink lips curved against the regent's ear seductively as the sheriff marveled, "Is it always going to be this way with you?" A deliciously round derriere subconsciously rolled against slim hips as the sorceress reached back to stroke Her lover's golden hair. "If you mean the artistry and creativity of my lingerie collection, you can expect it will so long as it continues to receive that reaction," Regina purred in an almost victorious tone.

Slim hips instinctively rolled back against the firm temptation nestling against them fanning the growing aching heat at the savior's center. A tight, slow twist of taut buds elicited a sharp whimper from the dusky beauty delighting the angelic casual aggressor. With a slight hiss, Regina reached back to tightly grip the savior's firm backside, painted nails biting lightly into creamy flesh as She fired back, "And look who's talking, your lack of lingerie was just as exciting." Emma blushed so hard at the observation that she paused a moment in her ministrations to bury flushed apple cheeks in raven silk threads as she confessed to her lady's hair, "I wanted to look nice for you and I didn't want to ruin the flow of the dress with panty lines."

"Aww," Regina cooed turning to face Her adorably embarrassed lover. Elegant hands cradled cherubic features as plush lips appreciatively caressed flushed cheeks. "It's sweet that you worked so hard to look nice for me," the sensual sovereign remarked sweetly brushing Her nose against Her lover's. Apple cheeks continued to pinken as jade pools cast down demurely at the praise. The endearing reaction stole the regent's heart all over again as She purred in a husky tone, "And I certainly appreciated it." Flushed heat raced up Emma's chest and throat as graphic thoughts of her lover's wildly impassioned reaction after ripping through the dress possessed her mind. The sheriff's voice deepened as she replied, "You really, really did."

The darkening of deep green pools quickened the sorceress's heartbeat. Hungry hands patiently seared up apricot curves as a sultry voice crooned, "Shall I express my appreciation again?" Emma's breath caught in her throat as strong arms wound around a voluptuous form answering in broken gasps, "If you like." A dead sexy chuckle preceded a leisurely determined claiming of soft pink lips. The savior whimpered sweetly into the kiss giving herself over completely to the embrace. A firm thigh rose brushing against a flared hip encouragingly. Fire raced up Regina's side at the subtle encouragement drawing Her deeper under the savior's spell.

As though an echo of their own rising passions, a wild cry rang out from the backyard. "Oh Gods, Mulan YES!" The lover's paused a moment chuckling at the uninhibited passions inhabiting the queen's garden. With a wicked grin, Regina commented, "It appears we're not the only ones enjoying this lazy Saturday morning." Delight danced freely in jade orbs as Emma replied, "Isn't that what Saturday mornings are for-with the right person of course?" Tender joy infused obsidian pools as they adoringly caressed angelic features to agree, "Everything is better with the right person." A beaming smile radiated from pink lips as they rose to languidly caress a deep wine colored pair.

Before the lovers could become too lost in one another again an electronic jingle cut through their intentions. Regina grumbled at the sound tossing a sour look towards Her phone. When the queen spotted the name attached to the incoming text message She quickly rolled away from Her lover with a startled cry of, "Henry!" Emma had been about to protest the retreat when the name stole her focus as well. "What's wrong," the blonde inquired concernedly. After viewing the message the sorceress pinned Her lover with a disapproving look. Completely baffled the Savior asked, "What?" The sassy femme merely held the phone aloft for the soft butch to see for herself.

+Henry: Hey mom, since mom is staying over with that mystery man again is okay if I come by for lunch? Grandma and grandpa are great, but it's been awhile since we spent some time together and I miss you.+

A stab of guilt battled with tender pride at her child's thoughtfulness for control of the Savior's heart. "Aww, he misses you," Emma tried halfheartedly to distract her lover. Not to be swayed Regina prodded in a sharp tone, "A mystery man, am I?" The sheriff had no response beyond a weakly penitent smile. The sorceress's worries would not be so easily abated as She insisted, "Where did our son get the idea that you have some mystery man?" Golden brows arched dubiously as the savior replied gently, "I haven't been home for three nights, Regina. He's a smart kid. He was bound to suspect something eventually." Pursing plush lips the feisty femme reluctantly nodded bobbing Her head from side to side in silent acquiescence.

The kind-hearted blonde rose to sit facing her lover gently taking a hand in her own. "Maybe it's time we had a talk with him," Emma suggested tenderly. White teeth pinched a plush bottom lip on a slow groan as doubt and anxiety began to encroach upon their pleasant morning. In a silent attempt to assuage her lover's fears the savior raised the hand she held to place an exquisitely tender kiss upon it. A soft sigh leaked from the troubled sovereign at the kind gesture. Regina knew Herself well enough to know that the only comfort She would find was in action. Quickly leaping from the bed the boldly bare beauty crossed to the window and raised it to lean out and call down to the occupants of the lawn, "Hey lovebirds, you have exactly one hour before I turn the hose on you two!"

"Regina," Emma exclaimed sharply startled by the behavior. A stern expression dominated dark features as the sorceress slammed the window shut and stalked towards Her closet with a purpose. Attention still divided between the scene at the window and the thumping sounds emanating from the walk-in closet Emma inquired in a startled tone, "You wouldn't really do that would you?!" The dark beauty emerged from Her preparations to offer a devastatingly, deliciously evil grin before replying, "Why should they have all the fun?" The sheriff stared jaws agape trying desperately not to be turned on by that erotically sadistic smile.

As Regina returned to rooting through the closet She tossed over Her shoulder, "Besides I can't very well have them hunting the backyard for their panties when our son arrives, now can I?" Sandy brows bobbed in silent relenting to that logic before a green gaze landed on the clock. "He won't be here for at least two and a half hours," Emma gently rebuked her lover as she sat on the bed hugging her knees loosely. Part of the sheriff wanted to argue that that was plenty of time for them to continue what they themselves had started, but she knew full well that there was no dissuading her lover's focus.

"Yes, and I need at least half an hour to shop and an hour to cook his favorite meal before he arrives," Regina replied as She emerged from the closet in sensible heels and simple but form-fitting grey wool dress. As a dark gaze fell upon bare shoulders and strong arms wrapped around nimble legs loosely draped in the sheets they had tussled not so long ago the sorceress forgot Herself a moment second guessing Her plans. With a hard swallow, a tight voice stubbornly suggested, "You should probably get dressed." A victorious half grin claimed soft pink lips in a charmingly cocky fashion at the ruffled expression on the composed beauty. "You're probably right," Emma sighed in mock defeat as she stood and slowly stretched her bare body shamelessly taunting her lover.

The royal breathing became labored at the scintillating sight. Unable to completely resist such temptation Regina sharply crossed to face Her lover. A firm grip of a taut backside yanked that svelte form against the sorceress eliciting an enthralling gasp from the beautiful blonde. "You're in a lot of trouble later," the smoldering femme warned seductively. Helplessly draping firm arms over slim shoulders Emma swallowed against the tightness of her throat, tongue absentmindedly wetting her lips before attempting speech, "Are you gonna punish me?" Plush lips curved with a sultry sadistic glee as the dark beauty merely nodded slowly. The savior bit down of an invitingly soft whimper before replying dutifully, "Yes, Your Majesty."

With an accord settled so satisfyingly newly scarlet lips fiercely claimed a soft pink pair searing the sorceress's intent into Her lover's body and mind. Regina indulged but a moment in the incomparable pleasure of feeling Emma relent so completely before pulling back to deliver a sharp swat to that pale bottom before ordering, "Now get dressed." A sharp exclamation of joy and excitement leaped from pink lips as the sheriff raced with blushing cheeks towards the bathroom, where she had left yesterday's work clothes, with an obedient, "Yes, ma'am."

Ruby had awoken slowly to the indescribable joy of feeling strong gentle hands slowly exploring her body as though patiently waiting for her to rise. The playfully curious femme had feigned sleep a bit longer to see where her lover's desires would take her and just how far Mulan might go without encouragement. However, when skilled fingers sailed feather light over tightening nipples a sharp moan ruined her game. "I thought so," a husky voice cooed victoriously in the shewolf's ear. Panting softly the feisty femme gazed over her shoulder to find exotic features darkened by a smoldering desire. Neither wasted another word as Red reached back to pull those deliciously intense features into a desperate yearning kiss.

Mulan fell gratefully into her fiancé's charms tongue dancing a tender seduction as the warrior's grip on ripe breasts intensified. A sweetly effeminate cry broke the kiss as Ruby gazed up in awed erotic wonder. With such sweet encouragement, warm hands slid lower slipping boldly between pale thighs. Full hips rocked against the touch eagerly slickening the welcome digits. An impatient longing gripped the shewolf as she cried out pleading, "Oh Gods, Mulan YES!" The soldier happily complied claiming her lover's lips once more as she smoothly slid within the entrancing beauty she still could not believe was hers.

Ruby turned in her lover's arms to better face her as swelled hips rocked eagerly against that mind-blowing hand. A steady rhythm pounded shattering the shewolf's senses daring her to greater heights. Painted nails raked gratefully down a toned rippling arm. The sharp sudden opening of a window broke through their frantic passion haze as a stern voice called out from above, "Hey lovebirds!" The two froze looking up in a guilty fashion. An even guiltier treat greeted their eyes as both women were struck by the breathtaking vision of a topless Regina. "You have exactly one hour before I turn the hose on you two!" With that, the startling sight disappeared within the house once more.

On a hard swallow, Mulan gazed down at her lady asking, "Should we stop now?" A shamelessly wicked grin claimed plush lips as Ruby replied, "You heard the lady. We have some time." An elegant hand fisted in raven locks pulling the soldier into a shamelessly wanton kiss branding her with need. Enflamed as never before the honorable warrior heeded her lady's call thrusting mercilessly within. Sharp moans broke the kiss. Wild, impassioned cries echoed from each thrust as a statuesque frame writhed, quivered and bucked against that hand. The exotic beauty lost herself completely in the raw, sweet rhythms of her lover's lust until at last, the porcelain beauty erupted pure, molten ecstasy.

Ruby sweetly caressed cherished copper features as she slowly caught her breath to purr gratefully, "Mmm, that is the absolute best way to wake up, ever." A glowing smile claimed exotic features as the tender Asian beauty purred, "I thought you would like it." The shewolf purred happily in the affirmative slowly caressing her fiancé's lips with her own. Mulan sweetly savored the heady kiss a moment before reluctantly stating, "We should probably find our clothes." The feisty femme offered a glowing grin as she gently stroked back a few stray glossy black strands replying, "I think they're over by the chair." Warm brown pools gazed towards the large circular chair they had occupied when their hostesses took their leave. "Right, where we um…." Visions of her fiery mate writhing in her lap as clothing fell like autumn leaves haunted the sated soldier. Clearing her throat the warrior completed her words respectfully, "…started."

Ruby giggled softly at her fiancé's adorably tactful and thoughtful interpretation of the shewolf's lapdance. "That's one way to put it," the wild young woman replied saucily. Emerald orbs delighted at the color rising in high cheekbones. The kind-hearted femme placed a sweet kiss on that blushing cheek before rising to face the day. "Come on," she encouraged in a soft tone, "We should probably get ready." A pale hand stretched out offering the exotic beauty aid. Mulan hesitated a moment before accepting the gesture. Although being treated like a lady was somewhat unfamiliar to the warrior her fiancé's ease of strength was surprising and a bit arousing.

With a slight force of will, the warrior pushed away the unsettling thoughts to focus on the task of dressing. Usually, this was a simple task but considering the intricacies of last night's attire, the masculine exotic beauty got as far as replacing the shirtless cuffs and tuxedo fronted thong before running into a bit of trouble. Copper skin shone in the sunlight as the soldier straightened holding the confounding undergarment aloft. "Umm darling, what do I do with this," the baffled beauty inquired. Ruby paused in donning her lace trimmed thigh high stockings to turn a darkening gaze on the corset that had driven her hormones completely wild the previous evening. "Oh, I can't help you with that," a throaty voice replied.

A kind face tilted in confusion at a complete loss on how to proceed with dressing. A statuesque form in red lace lingerie approached to stroke the back of her lover's neck drawing the exotic beauty's gaze to forest green pools heated by memory. Plump blood lips floated aching close to confess, "If I start with that we'll never stop and we are on a clock after all." A shiver raced through the soldier as that intense stare bated her breath. After a hard swallow, a brave voice cracked, "Perhaps another time." A wickedly seductive smile claimed porcelain features as Ruby offered in a throaty tone, "Anytime you're ready to try marathoning." The brave warrior whimpered in the face of her lady's seemingly boundless desires.

That delicious sound stirred an inferno within the shewolf taunting a primal, sensual aggression. A slight growl escaped the predatory beauty's inner struggle as she fought against her own desires in order to respect their hostess's demands. A slight scrape of teeth over soft pink lips was the only concession to lust Ruby allowed herself before pulling away from the studly temptation before her. The pale beauty turned to scoop a tuxedo shirt and tight fitting vest from the ground and held them out to her fiancé. "For now just wear these. That should be enough support and coverage to get you through," a kind strained voice offered. Still a bit stunned by the sharp, dizzying affection Mulan mutely accepted and began to dress.

By the time the newly engaged couple made their way into the kitchen their hostesses were well into enjoying their coffee. Porcelain features burst with delight as Ruby eagerly asked, "Ooo coffee, may I?" Regina smiled gently over Her own mug replying, "Of course, dear. Help yourself." As the waitress shuffled over to the pot Emma eyed the somewhat less quaffed but still dashing soldier with a cheeky grin. "Well, someone had a good night," the sheriff remarked playfully. Mulan blushed profusely brown eyes racing to the floor as she shuffled closer to her lady for protection. Answering the unspoken call Ruby handed her mate a coffee and stepped in front of the shy soldier to fire back, "From the screams I heard we weren't the only ones."

At the bold statement and all that it implied that the werewolf had overheard Emma blushed profusely her gaze quickly joining Mulan's in being glued to the floor. Rather than become overly defensive Regina simply smiled proudly and victoriously at the rather accurate assessment purring, "Yes, we did. Thank you for noticing." It did actually give the racy regent a secret thrill to think of what all Her protégé may have discovered of Her and Her lover's private life. Green eyes leaped up in surprise as the sheriff stared in befuddlement at her lover. "Oh no, thank you," Ruby purred coyly thoroughly enjoying the smug grin her words elicited in the sorceress. "And thank you SO much for my secret surprise," the shewolf embellished swaying the corset in her hand.

"I really REALLY enjoyed it," Ruby continued emphatically. A timid brown gaze lifted with impish joy to agree, "Rather extensively." Warm, deep laughter erupted from the regent as She replied, "You're most welcome." Emma stared in mute awe at the mind-boggling scene before her. The savior simply couldn't process the concept of Mulan in a corset much less anything else being shared in the kitchen at the moment. The blonde knew that Regina had expressed an interest in locker talk, but this was something else altogether. "You really do have a gift for lingerie, even when you're not wearing it," Ruby flattered her mentor with a playful wink. Suddenly realizing what all was apparent when Regina had made her threat earlier the sheriff interjected briskly, "Hey! In it or out of it, that's mine."

A raven black brow quirked challengingly over a dark inquisitive stare as Regina purred, "Is it now?" Emma turned a crestfallen look on her lover as the others politely went about sipping their coffee to remove themselves from the confrontation. The queen primly awaited an answer to Her question saving no mercy for the stammering blonde. "But.. but… I mean…"While Her lover may be from this world of female empowerment and sexual revolution the voluptuous regent came from a world where women were property, a sensation she was not quick to embrace again. With a sigh, the savior's head ducked in defeat as she gathered her thoughts to try again. Jade eyes rose open and fragile as the stymied sheriff realized, "Well, I guess I never asked. I told you I'm all yours, but I never stopped to ask what you wanted. I only know that you said you would never take my heart for granted."

The observing couple melted at the tender scene finding comfort in each other's embrace as they waited breath held for the resolution. Regina softened in the face of such tender reminders and open, trusting acceptance of whatever boundaries She required. A tender, graceful caress flowed over apricot cheeks as a soft voice explained sweetly, "I only want you. A girl just likes to be admired from time to time." Hope swelled in Emma's heart at the words. Just then Ruby added supportively, "Yeah Ems, I was just complimenting the chassis. I.. I wasn't trying to take Her for a ride, honest." The blonde offered her friend a gentle understanding smile as the soldier chuckled quietly behind her mate at the strange words. "I get it," the Savior replied to both of the outspoken femmes.

To ease her guilt at accidentally inciting the brief lover's quarrel Ruby attempted to change the subject with a curious, "So why the threat of hose treatment? Why aren't you two still in bed making happy noises?" The savior and queen both chuckled softly at the thoughtful distraction so playfully worded, but it was Regina who replied, "Our son is coming over for lunch and I have a lot to do before he arrives." The shewolf could see by the queen's stiff posture and the sheriff's concerned expression that the two were worried about Henry's reaction and the next few hours were likely to be very stressful for them. "Hey, no problem," the waitress soothed setting her mug in the sink preparing to leave. "We can get out of your hair."

The statuesque beauty approached her mentor with a kind, soothing stroke of a lightly tan arm assuring Her, "I'm sure it will be great." Emma smiled sweetly mouthing 'thank you' over her lover's shoulder at her friend's support. A slight smile curved plush scarlet lips as an elegant hand settled over a kind pale one. "I appreciate that," Regina replied before adding, "Besides, you two have a bit of preparation to do yourselves." Ruby tossed a confused look over her shoulder at her smugly smiling fiancé as she asked the room, "We do?"

A delighted smile lit aristocratic features as the queen informed her, "Oh yes, tonight at 7 o'clock at the diner we will be having your engagement party. Your granny and I have been planning it since we spoke yesterday afternoon after Mulan asked for your hand was given the ring, of course. The case of champagne I ordered for the event should be arriving by 2." The shewolf stared jaws agape inquiring with a baffled expression, "How did you know…" A raven brow quirked as the regent interjected sassily, "That you would say yes?" Wide lips tugged to one side as Ruby confessed sheepishly, "Good point." With that settled the friends embraced their goodbyes and set off to face their own individual tasks.

Strolling the streets hand in hand Mulan was surprised when their course veered from last night's path. As much as the soldier wanted to ask why she was far too polite to interrupt her beloved's intense communication through that rectangular device everyone seemed to use. Unaware of her lover's confusion Ruby continued to text Mary Margaret.

+Ruby: Snow, please tell me you're up! I HAVE to see you!+

+Snow: Yeah, David and I were just about to have breakfast. Is everything okay?+

+Ruby: Couldn't be more perfect and I'm starved! Tell me we can crash?+

+Snow: Of course! We'd love to have you over and there's plenty to eat. Please, come.+

Squealing happily Ruby tugged her mate's hand encouraging, "Come on." The shewolf's joy was infectious infusing their steps with eager careless delight until they found themselves at the Charmings' doorstep. Mulan was happily surprised when the door opened to reveal her former comrade. Ruby immediately leaped into her best friend's arms squealing in delight. Snow waved at Mulan a moment before catching her airborne friend in a joyous embrace. Soft giggles rattled through a petite frame as the pale princess set her exuberant friend down to ask, "What is this big news?" Mulan entered and politely closed the door behind them as David approached the group holding baby Neal drinking in the scene curiously.

A plush bottom lip was pinched between white teeth as the feisty femme proudly held out her left hand bearing the lovely, elegant family antique. Snow's breath caught at the sight jaw hanging agape in wondrous shock. A beaming grin tugged at a corner of thin lips as David rest a congratulatory hand on Mulan's shoulder. The two shared silent smiles of appreciation as Snow burst forward leaping into her friend's arms. The husband and soon to be husband took a step back to avoid the flailing limbs of the excitedly bouncing females and chuckled softly at their joy. "Oh my God, that's amazing!" Snow's startled excitement was mirrored by Ruby's cry of, "I know!"

Dancing blue eyes gazed into proud brown orbs remarking simply, "Congratulations." Copper cheeks pinkened with delight as the shy soldier replied, "Thank you." As the ladies crooned over the ring and exchanged kisses on the cheek David continued, "I should be thanking you. I understand you're the reason my family is back together again." A loving gaze flowed over the energetic shewolf as Mulan corrected, "I couldn't have done it alone." As though a reflection of her thoughts, Ruby turned from her friend to place an ecstatic kiss upon her lips. "So what are you boys talking about," the overjoyed waitress inquired. "Just what a lucky guy she is," David replied playfully.

Without waiting for invitation Ruby scooped Neal out of Charming's arms. Cradling the child she had not seen in so long to her chest the shewolf asked the sweetly laughing face, "And what do you think of your auntie's happy news, hmm?" Neal giggled and flailed his limbs happily inciting engaging laughter in the glowing shewolf as soft sunlight trickled through the window to halo the sacred moment. Completely lost in the enthralling beauty before her Mulan mooned shamelessly, "Speaking of being a lucky guy." A delighted smile claimed Snow's features at the deliriously happy expression on those so dear to her. In a secret corner of her heart, the princess wished for these wonderful people to somehow find this sort of happiness for themselves.

A soft blush claimed apple cheeks as Ruby shyly asked, "What?" David gazed down with a knowing look at the soldier seeing much of himself in the exotic beauty. "You just look so natural holding him, like you were born to be a mother," Mulan replied openly and honestly. Snow and David shared a secret smile their joy and hopes for their friends mirroring one another silently. Ruby tried to shake off the pleasantly unsettling attention by redirecting the focus with a playful explanation, "Oh, he's just such a great kid. He makes it easy. Here you try."

Startled at the concept and the arms stretching in her direction, Mulan stumbled backward hands held up in surrender. "Oh, I couldn't," the soldier argued weakly. David chuckled arguing, "Why not?" Snow stalked towards her guest with an impish smile taunting playfully, "Have we finally found something that the great warrior is afraid of?" Mulan backed away from the approaching females with a horrified expression pleading, "What if I drop him or hold him wrong and hurt him?" A wide, firm hand on her shoulder ceased the soldier's retreat as David gently encouraged, "I'm sure you'll do just fine."

Helpless squeaks and half-formed panicked words fall senselessly from the terrified hero of China as a small, remarkably soft squirming little bundle settles into arms that seemed to raise of their own volition despite her protests. The instant a gentle brown gaze falls upon that cherubic little face shining up at her the deepest sense of purpose and belonging the soldier had ever known washed over her claiming her heart completely. Warm, gentle smiles flowed contagiously from one to another as Snow, Charming and Ruby fell under the spell of the gentlest side of Mulan. With the fate of a nation cooing happily in her arms the warrior bounced lightly greeting the child with an entranced, "Hey there, little prince."

Without thought, Mulan gave herself over to a natural instinct swaying lightly from side to side as she continued to bounce lightly rocking the child in her arms. Neal giggled happily and waved his arms seeming to reach out to the warrior. Brown eyes misted with joy at such simple, natural acceptance, the battle-hardened soldier melted completely remarking in surprise to the others, "He likes me!" Snow and Charming chuckled softly completely unsurprised by this, but it was Ruby's deep green eyes radiating a potent, loving light that Mulan couldn't tear her eyes away from. "Well, he's always had good taste," Snow encouraged gently enjoying the sweet subtle moment. Prince Charming settled a hand on his new friend's shoulder remarking, "Say, you're a natural." A wide smile beamed from the exotic masculine beauty at the praise as she indulged in the sight of the father tickling his son's belly happily.

Completely lost in the moment that seemed like a dream Ruby's heart ached to share this kind of bliss with her beloved. Maybe someday they could discuss adoption or insemination the shewolf silently soothed herself as she shamelessly confessed in a wistful tone, "You look like the very picture of a proud papa." Warm brown eyes lifted from the squirming bundle to flow over her beloved's face as a soft blush rose in proud cheeks. Hearing the wonder and even the hidden painful longing in her friend's voice Snow curled an arm around the feisty beauty agreeing, "She really does, doesn't she." Mulan's fluster grew under the attention before casting a questioning gaze up to the child's father, for who would know better than he. With a gentle half smile, David nodded his agreement sensing a kindred spirit in this noble warrior. Timid chocolate pools returned to meet her fiancé's gentle gaze silently sharing the tender longing growing in her soul.

After a gruelingly particular shopping trip, Emma and Regina return from the store with all the ingredients the queen required. Obviously still flustered the sorceress set about organizing the ingredients in pre-preparation. Elegant hands flexed and trembled a moment nervously. Pale peach hands settled over them with a soothing stroke as the sheriff vowed gently, "It will be alright." With a hard swallow, the stubborn beauty composed Herself to inform Her lover, "I just need everything to be perfect. That's all." A charming half grin tugged at pink lips as the savior gently taunted, "Is that all?"

With an aggravated sigh Regina huffed, "The news will be easier to take once he has had his favorite meal and my famous turnovers are but moments away, the smell wafting in from the kitchen." Dubious green eyes caressed stubborn features lovingly as the queen continued assuring Herself, "That's the perfect time, yes." The words seemed certain and resolute, but Emma knew full well that this was all a way for Regina to distract Herself from the stress and anxiety of telling their son about their relationship. "Listen, I'm sure he will appreciate everything you're doing," the patient blonde began gently. "But in the end, he will be happy when he sees that we're happy."

Panicked dark eyes rose with all the doubt and terror naked in them as the rattled regent desperately clung to that reassurance, "You really think so?" Gentle green eyes insisted, "I know so and so do you if you'll just stop worrying a minute and thinking about it." A dark gaze dropped and the nervous siren nibbled her bottom lip in thought. Pressing the advantage Emma added, "He's a good kid with a good heart." Obsidian orbs rose shimmering softly as Regina replied, "He gets that from his mother." A softly glowing smile claimed pink lips as the sheriff replied with self-effacing charm, "Well, that and somebody raised him right."

Delight at the charming validation soothed frazzled nerves as the sorceress leaned in to express her gratitude in a slow, sweet kiss. Emma gave herself freely to the embrace letting Regina control every aspect. When the deliriously gentle gesture was complete the savior made one of her own, "Now, how can I help?" Energized by the offer the anxious mother quickly put the blonde to work gathering pots, pans, and other cooking accouterments.

As much as Ruby had enjoyed their evening out and breakfast with Snow it was nice to have Mulan at home all to herself again. Once the door closed it was as though a cocoon of 'ours' settled about the shewolf. Perhaps this is what territory felt like to wolves. Out in the world, especially at Snow's, the feisty femme had felt somewhat off balance. More and more all she wanted was to be alone with her lover. It wasn't quite as though she wanted the rest of the world to go away, more that she wanted it to leave them alone for a little while.

Mulan carefully hung up the expensive jacket attaching the bow tie to the hanger with care before approaching her beloved. Although the brave warrior was a bit weary she nobly offered, "Do you wish to continue your quest before the evening's celebration?" With a pouting grumble of, "No," the pale beauty shoved her lover into the bed. Confusion claimed exotic features on a baffled chuckle as the shewolf climbed atop a fit form to nestle into her lover's body. Without question, strong arms surrounded a statuesque form as the warrior cradled the beauty to her. With a slow inhale Ruby indulged in the scent of her true love's neck before confessing, "I just want to be here, with you, like this." A sweet, languid smile spread over the soldier's features as she replied contentedly, "Alright, I'd like that." Placing a tender kiss on the top of her lady's head Mulan sighed peacefully as the new and wonderful sensations of being loved and belonging surrounded her.

Regina fussed about the kitchen cursing at a necessary spice hiding from Her as Emma patiently watched absentmindedly trailing a finger through the flour coating the prep station. The sound of victory at its discovery was short lived as the once more flustered femme set about arranging the ingredients for the turnovers. The preparation of the meal now slowly baking to perfection had been fairly uneventful, but as the hour approached the queen's anxiety rose. An aggravated gust of air blew dark bangs from the rattled regent's face as She returned to rolling out the dough.

A gentle hand settled over the flustered beauty's forearm as the sheriff soothed, "Baby, calm down. Everything is exactly the way you want it. It's all going to be fine." With a slow inhale Regina tried to allow the calming comfort in, but as Her dark gaze fell upon that comforting hand and the flour it had deposited on Her forearm Her ire rose. The regent sharply swatted the touch away scolding, "Hey, be careful with those hands! I don't have time to shower again before he gets here." As he once lived there Henry entered without knocking. Before he could raise his voice to announce himself to the empty entryway the sound of his mother's griping in the kitchen brought a cheeky smile to his face. Unable to resist the urge to see who his mother was scolding and what they might be arguing about the sneaky son slunk closer.

An impish grin curved cherubic cheeks as Emma lightly teased, "Well, maybe you should've been more careful then. You've got a little right… here." With the last word, the sheriff risked her life flicking her finger at the tip of the queen's nose depositing a bit flour there. Regina gasped and recoiled shocked at the audacity of Her lover marring not just Her skin but carefully quaffed makeup as well. From his position peaking around the corner, Henry bit down on his lips to keep from chuckling at the entertaining scene. "Oh no, you did not," the sorceress raged turning blazing eyes upon the savior.

Undaunted Emma rubs flour between her hands coating her palms as she playfully stalks the polished femme. Regina waves a finger of warning chanting 'no' repeatedly beneath Her breath before deciding that discretion is the better part of valor in this case. Wicked chuckles leak from the savior as she playfully chases the sorceress around the kitchen island. A wide smile spreads across Henry's lips to see his mothers at play. A high pitched squeal leaks from plush red lips as the blonde bears down on her prey. A tight grip keeps flour dripping hands at bay as despite Herself Regina giggles at the childish roughhousing.

"Stop it," the queen laughed a half-hearted admonishment as She wrestled to keep those squirming hands off of Her. As Her famous stubborn streak kicked in Regina maneuvered those dangerous hands behind Emma's back. The movement, however, placed the savior in the sorceress's arms held loosely against a voluptuous form. The blonde ceased her struggles as the dark beauty gasped from the contact. At this distance and in Regina's arms Emma felt like there was nothing she would deny her. From his hiding place around the corner Henry's eyebrows rose at this puzzling twist. He almost couldn't believe his eyes when his birthmother spoke so soft and sweet to the woman who had raised him.

"Henry has seen you like this before. A spot of flour or two isn't going to make a difference. He's going to be happy for us because he loves you as much as I do, floured, fretting and all," Emma confessed without a thought as to how much she was revealing. Regina's breath caught roughly at the sound of those sweet words nestled amongst the offered comfort. As her own words drifted back to her the savior's heart leaped into her throat an icy terror gripping her. Had she said too much, pushed too far? Was Regina ready for this or would it push her away? Panic gripped an open green gaze silently awaiting her fate.

Elegant hands numbly released the savior. All thought was forgotten but those wonderful words. A deep, dark gaze swam tenderly over angelic features as the regent cupped cherished cheeks in Her hands demanding in a soft, fragile voice, "Say it again." All the air she had been holding rushed out with the terror as Emma glowingly complied, "I love you." With a soft whimper, Regina drew Her beloved into a slow, searingly passionate kiss. Stunned by the touching scene before him Henry's face broke into a wide, delighted smile as he wondered if this could possibly be real.

Emma's head spun wildly as she fell into the ferociously tender embrace. Strong arms curled around the stunningly quaffed beauty pulling her closer. Regina's arms slipped with familiar grace around strong shoulders as a voluptuous pressed tighter against Her amazing, constantly surprising lover. A raw moan leaked from the savior as strong hands slid down to encompass a firm bottom holding the beauty flush against a tight body kneading that stunning backside slowly. Henry's eyes bulged at the very clear evidence in front of him. Before things could get too out of hand their son announced his presence by clearing his throat loudly and stepping out into the open.

The not so secret lovers parted in a panicked leap as Regina shouted startled, "Henry!" The deeply flustered blonde stumbled for excuses clumsily gesturing wildly, "We uh… um.." A cheeky grin lit the young man's features dark delight dancing in his eyes as he watched his mothers grapple for an explanation. Regina raced to the rescue offering in a stammering tone, "I um… had something in my eye and… and Emma was getting it out for me." Emma nodded her agreement biting down on her lips as she shoved her hands into her back pockets trying not to look guilty as hell.

"Uh huh," Henry replied fixing them both with a doubtful pointed stare. The savior rocked back and forth in her boots adding unconvincingly, "Yep, just helpin' out." Intelligent brown eyes leveled on his mom as Henry inquired, "You had something in your eye?" A slow sigh slipped from the sovereign at the faint hope that Her child might accept the flimsy excuse. "Yes," She confirmed with a gentle smile. Henry's eyebrow quirked dubiously clearly mirroring his mom's habits as he craned his head around Her side pointedly to inquire, "So that's why her hands were on your butt?" Both women froze and gasped as the boy straightened pinning them with a simple, "Because you had something in your eye."

Emma leaned back and Regina twisted at the waist to see what their son was talking about. Both mothers got a clear view of hand shaped flour marks marring the backside of the queen's dress. The shocked sovereign spun to give the Savior's arm a sharp slap exclaiming, "Emma!" The blonde winced at the slight sting more wounded by her own short-sighted actions. A penitent expression claimed the savior's features as she prepared herself for what seemed to be building towards a hellacious rant that she felt she completely deserved. Neither of the women had wanted their son to find out like this, but it was inescapably clear that the cat was most certainly out of the bag now.

Henry knew both of his mothers well enough to know he should step in soon before his mom completely blew Her top. With a warm chuckle at the adorable couply interaction, the young man offered kindly, "I also heard her tell you she loves you." That statement, so warmly delivered, eased the regent's ire. In that instant, both women's entire focus became their child asking as one with anxious, curious stares, "You did?" Henry couldn't help but laugh at their synchronicity and nodded in silent reply with a goofy smile. Not completely appeased by that endearing expression Regina nervously but gently demanded, "And?"

With a soft smile to the composed woman who raised him Henry approached his birthmother crossing his arms with a playful glare. Confused by this strange posturing Emma straightened with curious timidity as her child slowly circled her in an almost appraising fashion before pressing, "So, you love her?" A bright smile broke over the Savior's face at her son's protective act. It was nice that there was someone to play the proud papa role for Regina and it was appropriate for the young man named after the vixen's father to be the one to do so. "Yeah, actually I do," Emma admitted submitting to the loving examination.

A brilliant smile broke over the author's face before he caught himself. With a rough clearing of his throat and straightening of his demeanor, Henry continued, "And just what are your intentions toward my mother, young lady?" Regina's face beamed with an adoring smile thoroughly touched by Her son's dashing intervention, but it was Emma's next words that stole Her heart all over again. With a gentle shrug, the sheriff admitted in a tender tone, "I just want to make Her happy." The regent's heart swelled misting dark eyes at the loving gestures by the two people most important to Her in the world.

Henry tapped his chin a moment in mock thought trying hard not to smile and failing a bit. As though he had just come to the decision to allow this, the young man lightly punched his birth mother in the arm stating, "Alright, just try not to hurt Her, stud." Emma burst into peals of laughter as she drew her son into a fierce hug shouting, "Come here you!" With a strong arm around his shoulders, the blonde ruffled her son's hair chuckling, "Stud?" Henry laughed freely in reply as Emma placed a glowing kiss on top of his head.

Regina watched the scene between them in wide wonder that it was possible to find such joy in life and even greater still that She might deserve it. As though still in doubt the queen inquired in a fragile voice, "So you're really okay with this?" The happily tousling pair parted at the serious question to face the woman so dear to them both. With a gentle smile, Henry replied honestly, "I haven't seen you smile like that since…" The boy thought a moment before continuing, "…ever. I've never seen either of you so happy. I can't think of anything that could possibly make this better." With unrestrained joy, the young man pulled both of his mothers into a fierce hug.

The lovers melted into the embrace with relieved sighs. As She pulled back from the heartwarming gesture Regina offered, "I made your favorite, cheesy macaroni casserole." Henry's posture straightened eyes wide with glee as he announced, "It DOES get better!" Both his mothers chuckled warmly at the adorable reaction. Emma tucked an arm around her lover tugging Her gently to her side as she smiled proudly at their son stating reassuringly, "See, I told you he'd be okay with it." Regina relented to the embrace curling an arm around the stunning blonde's shoulders as She cooed, "Yes, he has your good heart."

Green eyes danced with delight as Emma turned a warm smile on her beloved to reply gently, "It helps that somebody raised him right." Obsidian orbs shone sweetly as Regina could feel Herself giving in to the gravity of Her lover's charms. Before their lips could reconnect Henry interjected, "Yeah, he's right here and getting hungrier by the minute." The lovers chuckled at themselves a moment and shared a gentle look before separating in deference to their child's wishes. With a rough arm around Henry's shoulders, Emma dragged their son away stating, "Alright you, let's go set that table while your mom finishes up in here." The broadly smiling young man agreed with a simple, "Deal." A deliriously delighted grin claimed the queen's face at the sight of Her unexpected and wonderfully rambunctious little family. Regina couldn't begin to puzzle out what good She might have done, what pain She might have endured to have deserved a moment this wonderful, but She would gladly do it again a thousand times over for just one more minute like this.

It had been a long afternoon for the anxious shewolf, but the hour or so spent nestled peacefully in her mate's arms had given her the strength to face it. Regina had been right however, there was a lot Ruby had needed to accomplish before the party. Her entire afternoon had been divided between wardrobe selection for herself and Mulan, which admittedly had a few spicy setbacks, and plotting a few surprises with Regina, Emma and Snow through text messaging. Now with the door to the diner ahead of them and the party lights shining softly, butterflies danced in the glowing beauty's stomach. There was a lot to face, much more than Mulan knew, but Ruby reminded herself that the kind, caring person stroking her hand in thoughtful support was more than worth it. A brave smile beamed encouraging at the exotic beauty as the stunning statuesque creature prompted, "Shall we?"

Mulan nodded her agreement delight shining in soft brown pools. The humble warrior had never known a more enchanting creature than the kind-hearted, generous spirit that for some unfathomable reason had agreed to marry her. At the moment she couldn't imagine anything more wonderful than sharing her pride and joy with those that mattered the most to them. And though not everyone closest to the soldier's heart could be present it gave her comfort that they would see her family soon when finally they finished this quest to find Ruby's pack. Mulan felt confident that they would discover this stray wolf soon which was part of why she had proposed in the first place. She didn't want to introduce Ruby to her parents as anything less important than she was to the warrior. The soldier needed her parents to know from the start that her commitment to her beloved was not passing, but lifelong. The gentlewoman set such hopeful thoughts aside for another day as she graciously opened the door for her lady love with a courtly bow.

Each part of the couple exemplified their own vintage as they entered the room. Ruby's hair was curled and stylized in a partially up fashion with a red rose tucked into it. Her lips and sleeveless, floor-length, sequined slitted gown were the same color giving her a classical 1930-40s look. Mulan looked like a gentlewoman of the 1960s in her steel grey suit with its crisp lines, square folded handkerchief in the upper pocket and straight thin black silk tie as has been coming back into fashion lately. The humble beauty's hair was pulled back from her face in a clean simple manner. They were truly a striking pair as evidenced by the hearty welcome they received from the crowd of cheerily drinking well-wishers who toasted their arrival.

Ruby giggled happily at her friends and family, their warm welcome touching her heart. Mulan smiled wide and proud at the massive crowd of kind faces overjoyed to be so accepted by such loving people. As finely and casually attired people alike began to crowd around the couple a short man with a black and grey beard stepped ahead of the crowd to gruffly demand, "Not that I'm complaining about all the free hooch at these get-togethers lately, but what's the big to do?" Apparently by Leroy's reaction, the invitations that Granny and Regina sent out didn't include the purpose of the party. The shewolf gave her mate a gentle smile offering kindly, "Well, would you like to tell them or shall I?"

With a sparkling smile, Mulan replied, "Why say a thing?" In a proud gesture, the warrior lifted their joined hands to elegantly display the ring. Many gasped and giggled with delight, but it was Belle who raced forward to embrace Ruby tightly enthusing, "Oh my God, you guys! Congratulations!" The shewolf returned the hug warmly with a soft giggle of, "Thanks." Regina and Emma each claimed the next round of congratulatory hugs quickly followed by Henry. As the couple was drawn apart by well-wishers David stepped behind Mulan placing a supportive arm around her shoulders. "You really are a lucky guy," Charming encouraged.

The prince could tell that the warrior was getting a bit overwhelmed in the absence of her other half. Mulan looked over her shoulder at the tall, kind man she had connected with earlier in the day with a grateful smile. "I really am," the soldier replied with a light chuckle delighted at the playful masculine title she hoped would continue. It felt good to be around and accepted by honorable men as one of their own. It brought her a sense of comfort in otherwise unfamiliar surroundings.

With a bit of distance between herself and her mate and surrounded by her co-conspirators Ruby asked in a hushed whisper, "Is the first surprise ready?" Belle looked confused as Regina and Emma smiled replying, "Waiting down the hall, ready when you are." The shewolf planted an enthusiastic kiss on each of their cheeks squealing in delight, "You guys are the best!" The librarian watched awash in confusion as her hyper-focused friend turned her attention Snow inquiring, "And surprise number two?" Snow gave a sharp nod replying, "Everything is tucked away out of sight, but easy to reach." The widest grin any of the women had ever seen graced the bride to be as she enthused, "I love you guys." For a moment Ruby turned her attention to her old friend soothing the lost librarian, "Don't worry, once we start you'll know exactly what to do. I'll invite you when to jump in, okay?" Completely clueless as to what was expected of her Belle simply went along agreeing in a hesitant but amicable tone, "Okay."

The energetic shewolf embraced them warmly one by one before making her way through the crowd. The feisty femme snatched a glass and fork from a table nearby her beloved as she climbed a chair to stand even higher above the throng of bodies. Light taps rang out clean and clear quieting the crowd. Having secured their undivided attention Ruby addressed her friends and family in a clear, proud voice, "Now I know weddings are oftentimes more about the bride." Many chuckled at this. "But we have celebrated me a lot lately. We've celebrated my return. We've celebrated me finding my one true love." The crowd parted in the face of the adoring look the woman of the hour gave to her mate with an extended hand.

Without a word Mulan answered the silent call closing the distance between them to hold that cherish hand and gaze up with her heart naked in her eyes at her beloved as she continued, "Tonight I want to celebrate her." The humble warrior blushed and looked away from the attention shaking her head as every eye settled on her. Ruby leaned down to tilt that proud chin up with a tender touch coaxing those warm brown eyes back to her own as she made her appreciation clear. "You were brave to come here with no clear way home just to help me. You have stood strong beside me when I needed someone to lean on. And you were bold and amazingly romantic when you asked for my hand."

The warrior's flush grew under the praise as did her smile as she stood entranced by those giving green eyes as enchanting lips informed her, "I wanted to do something special for you tonight." Emboldened by her lady's words Mulan joked, "I thought we were doing that later." The jest was warmly received with applause and laughter. Delighted at her timid lover's growing comfort Ruby leaned down rewarding the humor with a warm, brief kiss before replying, "Of course, but for this gift I needed the help of Emma and Regina's magic combined." This information brought a hush to the crowd impressing upon the warrior the weight of such power. Unsettled by the concept and attention Mulan kindly assured her fiancé, "Your heart is the greatest gift I could ever receive."

From within the crowd, a deep strongly accented male voice tinged with wisdom rang out, "I told you once…" Brown eyes bulged at the sound jaw dropping in shock and disbelief as the crowd parted to reveal the truth of the approaching figure. "… the greatest gift and honor is having you for a daughter." A copper hand fell numbly from a pale one as the distinguished looking Chinese man with his black and grey hair in a bun leaning firmly on his cane stepped closer. Large chocolate pools darted taking in a demure looking middle-aged Asian woman and her shrunken wrinkled counterpart before vaulting over the chair between them into their waiting arms with a delirious cry of, "Baba, Mama, Grandmother!"

Mulan's heart overflowed to bursting as she held them tighter to assure herself that it was not a dream. "I missed you so much," the warrior cooed in a tender voice that melted her mate's heart and many others around. Emma and Regina held each other without thought silently sharing the joy that they had helped to bring about. Snow's brow crinkled at this a moment before she assured herself that the embrace was simply about their good works and nothing else. "We missed you," a soft, lyrical voice replied as Mulan's mother smiled at her daughter gently stroking her hair. Grandmother Fa leaned on her cane eyeing her surroundings with suspicious curiosity asking, "I know you like to travel on your adventures, but what in the world brought you to this strange place?"

Heart glowing in warm brown eyes, Mulan turned a worshipful gaze upon her fiancé to reply, "The same amazing creature that brought you here." The normally audacious femme blushed hotly under such glowing praise as she demurely replied, "Actually, I just asked Regina and Emma to do it. I haven't had the honor." The great hero's heart leaped with joy that such opportunity still existed as she raced to her beloved's side eagerly offering her hand to guide the beauty. "Then allow me," the stunning stud requested with a gracious bow. Ruby gracefully accepted the gesture slipping her hand into her mate's as she stepped down from the chair and allowed herself to be guided to the kind but stiff looking collection of future in-laws.

Thick lashes fluttered like butterfly wings over wide green eyes as the statuesque beauty took in each introduction one by one. Mulan stood straight and proud as she embraced the honor of bringing together the most important people to her in the world. "Beloved, I would like you to meet the brave and honorable Fa Zhou…" A graceful wave of a copper hand indicated the slightly bowing gentleman with a curious gaze. Uncertain exactly how to respond Ruby bowed her head respectfully. Pride and delight danced in warm brown eyes as the exotic beauty continued indicating her mother, "the honorable Fa Li and of course Grandmother Fa." Each successive introduction was met with another round of polite bows.

Gathering her breath and courage Mulan slipped an arm around a slim waist in a clear sign of unity as she announced, "Mama, Baba, Grandmother, I would like you to meet Ruby, my bride to be." Fa Zhou nodded slowly as though his suspicions were confirmed. Fa Li gasped and blinked slowly a bit taken off guard by the announcement. However, it was Grandmother Fa who approached openly appraising the uncomfortably smiling shewolf who waved in a friendly fashion stating, "Well, at least you found a pretty one." Fa Li and Mulan sharply rebuked the brusk old woman as one with a shout of, "Grandmother!" The grey-haired woman shrugged in defense asking, "What?"

Ruby merely chuckled at the old woman's candid nature that reminded her a bit of her own Granny. With a step in the old woman's direction, the shewolf leaned down to place a companionable arm around shrunken shoulders to announce, "I like her. She has good taste." The feisty femme accented the statement with a playful wink at the elderly Fa. The old woman grumped, "See, she likes me. Say, not too much?" As the old woman leaned away a moment cautiously Ruby stood up to wrap a claiming arm around her mate answering, "Oh no, I'm all hers."

Fa Zhou took in the couple's comfortable affection with a guarded expression. "And this sort of relationship is common here?" Mulan's smile fell as she faced her father. Ruby's heart stopped as she protectively held her lover closer, but it was David that came to the hero's rescue. Charming placed a companionable hand on his new friend's shoulder stating, "It is known of and understood even if it isn't terribly common. Your daughter and her relationship will be accepted and respected here. You needn't worry, sir." A slow smile spread over venerable features easing the exotic beauty's worry as her father replied with a slight bow, "Thank you." Mulan placed a warm hand over her new friend's repeating the sentiment for herself, "Thank you." Gentle blue eyes shone to each of them individually before responding warmly, "You're most welcome." Ruby rubbed David's shoulder with an appreciative smile which he graciously returned.

Snow stepped forward to help ease the tension interjecting, "Alright, enough formality. This is a party." Ruby chuckled warmly at her friend's endearing interjection. A bright smile burst across her features as the shewolf gently disagreed, "Actually, I think this might be the perfect time to discuss some formalities." A playful wink to the petite princess silently answered the confused expression the shewolf received. "Oh! Now?" Snow held up two fingers in silent question. A wide grinning nod and slight wave indicated that her friend should get things ready for the femme's cue.

A wide charming smile was turned upon her future in-laws as Ruby took them gently by the hand guiding them towards a table as she explained, "Now you guys are about to get to know me a lot better. And honestly I can be a lot to deal with sometimes, but if you're half as patient and understanding as your daughter I'm sure I'll love you almost as much. And maybe if I'm lucky you'll love me at least half as much as she does." The Fa family smiled and chuckled softly allowing themselves to be guided by the gregarious woman's easy charms as they took their seats.

With a sharp exhale Ruby prepared herself for what lay ahead as she turned to face her true love. As the shewolf took the masculine beauty by the hand she noticed Emma and Regina standing near a table up by the bar pointing at it. A soft smile graced porcelain features as she began to guide her fiancé towards it informing her kindly, "Mulan, you have been so kind and thoughtful trying to learn our customs and ways in order to be respectful and proper in your pursuit of me. And you have done such an amazing job that I wanted to make this next step a little easier for you." Now that Mulan was maneuvered in front of the right chair with Regina and Emma standing to either side of her Ruby gave her a saucy shove depositing the surprised soldier in it as she sassed over her shoulder, "Hit it!"

Brown eyes cast about in confusion as a gentle music started. A gentle stroke along the champion's jaw tenderly drew her befuddled gaze to her beloved as the winning creature crooned in a hypnotic voice, "Dear future husband.." A graceful hand waved expressively before the winning creature as she continued to sing, "…here's a few things… you'll need to know if you wanna be…" A gentle hand pressed to the lady's chest before holding up a single finger in an almost stern gesture with a slow wave as she sang, "…my one and only a-all my life."

A slow smile spread over exotic features in delight at the sweet tune. Mulan's calm was shattered however when Emma burst forward singing in a low tone "Awww" before waving towards Ruby as though directing attention back to the bride to be. The sassy waitress instructed singing in a saucy fashion, "Take me on a date…" Emma shoved a box of chocolates into the confused champion's hands urging them forward. Ruby accepted the chocolates with a smile clutching them to her chest singing, ".. I deserve a break."

Before Mulan could recover from the adorable song & dance number Regina shoved a bundle of flowers and a calendar page into her hands confusing the already unnerved but amused soldier. It suddenly became clear that they were just starting when Ruby continued to sing, "And don't forget the flowers every anniversary." Laughing softly the soldier followed orders holding out the gifts to her beloved. The saucy shewolf accepted them with a smile sniffing the flowers as she sang with a sassy shoulder shimmy, "'Cause if you treat me right… I'll be the perfect wife." Tossing the gifts over her shoulder Ruby sauntered up to the counter where Snow quickly placed items for her to grab as she sang, "Buying groceries, buy-buying what you need."

The crimson-clad crooner collected a grocery bag and sword from the counter and in a playful fashion dutifully placed them in her mate's lap. Mulan laughed free and sweet at her beloved's entertaining concept of providing and caring for them as the winning creature sashayed away to continue her tune. From the end of the counter, Ruby continued, "You got that nine to five…" The shewolf quickly wrote 'I love you' in large letters on an order ticket and stuck it on the order wheel as she announced, ".. but baby so do I." Long legs quickly and gracefully ascended to stand on the countertop kicking a rolling pin off of it as she sang, "So don't be thinking I'll be home and baking apple pies."

The feisty femme danced on the countertop as she had often dreamed of doing in an old fashion doo-wop shimmying style as she sang, "I never learned to cook, but I can write a hook." Lost in the joy of the moment she was creating and the slow, rhythmic claps on the beat from her loved ones Ruby pointed at Belle specifically before waving towards herself invitingly as she sang, "Sing along with me. Sing-sing along with me." Completely overtaken by her friend's charms and finally understanding the earlier reference Belle stepped forward to sing, "Hey!"

Regina and Emma stepped forward to help Ruby gracefully descend from the bar while providing backup vocals as the lady of the hour sang, "You gotta know how to treat me like a lady." Wide brown eyes sparkled in delight at the enthralling spectacle before her as Mulan's beloved approached. Suddenly the shewolf made a silly growling expression with claw-like hands inciting laughter as she sang, "Even when I'm acting crazy. Tell me everything's alright." The enraptured soldier replied hypnotized, "It's alright." Pointing at her other half the sassy femme winked crooning, "Dear future husband…" Full hips shimmied and swayed as the shewolf closed the distance between them singing, "…here's a few things you'll need to know if you wanna be my one and only all my life."

The champion had never known delight like when that stunning creature climbed into her lap draping pale arms around her shoulders to sing, "Dear future husband…" A hard swallow accompanied a slow stroke of the soldier jaw as the scintillating singer continued, "If you wanna get that special lovin' … tell me I'm beautiful each and every night." Chocolate orbs sparkled worshipfully at the coy look sent her way as Mulan replied, "You're gorgeous." Ruby blushed a moment before spinning in her lover's lap to turn her back to the warrior before she forgot her talented gift and fell under her lover's sway.

With a sharp look and scrunched nose Ruby gave a dramatically aggravated look over her shoulder at her lover singing, "After every fight…" Regina, Emma, Snow, and Belle gasped in a playfully dramatic fashion truly committed to their support status. "Just apologize." Completely under her beloved's spell, Mulan offered a reproached penitent expression to which the quartet at the bar giggled freely. With a smile, the shewolf leaned back against her lover draping an arm over the warrior's shoulder as she shimmied her bottom and back against the blushing beauty as she sang, "And maybe then I'll let you try and rock my body right."

While deeply aroused by the saucy instruction the exotic beauty desperately tried to restrain herself with her parents so close at hand. Luckily the song continued quickly taking her attention away as her fiancé sang, "Even if I was wrong..." A soft laugh met the champion's look of confusion as her lover continued with a sassy look, "You know I'm never wrong."A broad smile claimed the warrior's features as she silently nodded her agreement much to the amusement of all. Even the honorable and reserved Fa family chuckled at this particular bit as Zhou and Li shared a secret look. Sassy shoulders shook in question as the feisty femme sang, "Why disagree? Why, why disagree?" The thoroughly charmed bridegroom-to-be shook her head to indicate that she wouldn't.

A broad smile claimed porcelain features at how well her true love was following her little game. With a slight spin, Ruby shifted to sit sideways in her lover's lap crossing her legs demurely as she sang, "You gotta know how to treat me like a lady." Spinning a finger at her temple playfully she continued, "Even when I'm acting crazy. Tell me everything's alright." Without a word Mulan lovingly caressed her fiancé's cheek in a gentle soothing gesture that raised the color in them. A gentle smile curved plush lips as the shewolf dragged herself from her mate's lap as Belle sang, "HaaAAo-oo."

As her quartet of supporters continued dancing and back up singing Ruby began a simple shimmy singing, "Dear future husband, here's a few things…you'll need to know if you wanna be my one and only all my life." Just then Snow stepped forward to offer a high clear, "He-ey baby." Regina and Emma giggle a bit at Snow's solo moment. Belle continues to dance but smiles caught up in the energy of the moment as Ruby continues smiling, "Dear future husband.." The saucy femme taps her wrist and pouts, hands over her heart as she sings, "Dear future husband, make time for me… don't leave me lonely." Mulan shakes head vigorously in a silent vow that she would never do such a thing. With a playful wave towards her charmed new in-laws-to-be, Ruby sang, "And know that we'll never see your family more than mine." Every member of the Fa family smiled widely completely charmed by that particular statement. It was clear by the shewolf's body language that she was more concerned with drawing attention to and respecting their presence more than commenting on the meaning of lyrics.

With a sassy swiveling step the shewolf placed herself just a bit in front of her mate's legs. As she began to sing she turned and pointed to the left. "I'll be sleeping on the left side of the bed." The quartet behind her entoned, "Hey!" Dropping to kneel before her fiancé Ruby grabbed Mulan's knees spreading them as she sang, "Open doors for me…" Brown eyes bulged as the vixen's face approached the champion's groin singing, "…and you might get some…" At the last moment, the feisty femme popped to playfully complete the phrase, "kisses." A light peck was dropped on the relieved warrior's nose as their surrounding loved ones all laughed heartily at the display.

Mulan smiled broadly as her lady love tapped her lightly on the forehead with the playfully sung admonishment, "Don't have a dirty mind." A sassy finger traced the masculine beauty's tie as the shewolf sang, "Just be a classy guy." With a half step back Ruby held out her hand singing, "Buy me a ring. Buy- buy me a right, babe." Mulan leaned forward to take that hand as her lady sang, "You gotta know how to treat me like a lady." With those words, the champion placed a gentle kiss on that band that promised a start of their lives together.

The sassy beauty blushed struggling to continue in the face of that tenderly devoted look, "Even when I'm acting crazy. Tell me everything's alright." Mulan could see the effect of her charms on her lady and shameless crooned, "It's alright," before releasing her beloved's hand. In a tender voice, Ruby caressed her true love's cheek singing sweetly, "Dear future husband, here's a few things you'll need to know if you wanna be my one and only all my life." Unable to resist those charms any longer Ruby sat in her true love's lap singing, "Dear future husband…" Pale arms draped adoringly over strong shoulders as she sweetly sang, "If you wanna get that special loving…. Tell me I'm beautiful each and every night." With a worshipful caress of a blushing cheek, Mulan cooed, "You're stunning."

At that moment Regina stepped forward hip cocked with a circular snap of her fingers to deliver an ultra sassily sung, "That's right!" Emma beamed at the display. Ruby chuckled along with several others before leaning her forehead against her true love's and lightly brushing their noses together as she sang in a soft cooing tone, "Future husband, better love me right." Lost in the magic of her lady Mulan drank in the message of the song and vowed, "I mean to do my best, beloved." With a broad, warm smile the shewolf encouraged tenderly, "I'm sure you'll do great." Plush lips descended to slowly caress a soft pink pair in a chaste, tenderly devoted embrace.

As the music stopped their surrounding loved ones clapped and cheered. Emma, Regina, Snow, and Belle exchanged warm embraces complimenting each others' performances and support. Grandmother Fa nudged Fa Zhou proclaiming proudly, "I knew I liked her." The reserved man replied with a subtle smile, "She certainly has spirit." Fa Li sighed sweetly at the way the young lovers smiled at one another comforted by the joy in their eyes. Placing a gentle hand on her husband's knee the soft-spoken woman added, "I think they will be just fine." A warm, broad hand settled over hers as the head of the Fa family silently smiled his agreement and hopes for their child's future.

Slowly emerging from the kiss Ruby tenderly stroked her fiancé's cheek with a soft smile purring, "So future husband, do you like your presents?" A wide, glowing smile overtook the champion's face as delirious delight shone in chocolate pools. Mulan gently caressed the pale arms around her cooing softly, "To have my family here and your amazing heart, there is no greater gift-no matter what my father says." A soft, haunted look crossed emerald orbs at the thought of her future father-in-law's words. They stirred an ache the shewolf was not yet ready to discuss. Rather than let her mood sour Ruby decided to face the issue.

As a way of disentangling herself the kind-hearted femme suggested, "Speaking of which, why don't you spend some time with your family while I mingle." Mulan was uncertain what had dampened her lady's spirits. Whether it was duty or something else the soldier decided to respect her wishes rather than press the issue. Instead, she simply replied, "Alright, beloved." The lovers gingerly separated. As the brave warrior went to catch up with her family Ruby gave herself over to the warm embrace of friends.

Snow had just retrieved a fussy baby Neal from his carriage when her friend approached trying to mask her sadness behind a brave smile but she saw through that easily. The princess reached out to stroke the shewolf's arm asking gently, "What's wrong?" With a weary sigh, Ruby gave into the growing maternal instinct replying, "Nothing a little young prince time won't cure." Snow let her longtime friend scoop up her child as Henry stepped forward to kindly offer, "What can I do?" The lady of the hour smiled welcoming the gesture with a polite refusal stating, "Sorry, you're a bit big for what I need, but thanks." Regina and Emma flanked their kind-hearted child adoringly.

Cradling the infant in her arms did bring the ruffled beauty a measure of peace. It seemed the sentiment was shared as the baby cooed its pleasure waving chubby arms at her excitedly. A wide smile curved plush lips at the child's obvious joy. Lost to his charms Ruby crooned, "Are you happy to see your wolfy auntie?" Neal giggled and squirmed excitedly. The feisty femme lifted the child playfully laughing, "Oooh I'm gonna get those baby legs." The pair descended into contagious giggles as the shewolf playfully nibbled at his feet with her lips pulled carefully over her teeth tickling the infant's toes.

Neal squealed and giggled happily as Regina, Emma, Snow, Belle, and Henry laughed along at the enchanting display. A sarcastic voice intruded upon their joy quipping sharply, "I was told there would be food available. No need to eat the little ones." With a sigh and impatient roll of her eyes, Ruby turned to face the new arrival correcting the redhead, "We were just playing, Zelena." The voluptuous witch remarked in relief, "Thank God, I was starting to worry about having brought Robin to this girl love fest." Regina stepped forward in defense of Her protégé directing her sister, "The food is along the wall if you're interested."

Zelena gently bounced her own child in her arms as she replied, "Soon enough, I just wanted to make sure that dog girl over here wasn't recruiting a next generation of hounds." Ruby tried not to growl as she bit back defensively, "I wasn't biting him. My lips were covering my teeth. I would never hurt Neal." Sharp blue eyes settled sternly on the woman of the hour informing her, "You may mean well, but a baby's skin is incredibly porous. They will absorb any mangy stray germ you may have." Green eyes bulged in terror at the information before turning to the child's mother to apologize, "Oh Gods Snow, I'm so sorry!"

In a panic, Ruby returned the baby. As Snow fawned over her child trying to soothe his cries at the adults' obvious worry the shewolf quickly retrieved the Eye of Fenrir from under her dress. She would never forgive herself if she had inadvertently turned her best friend's child into a werewolf. The anxious femme silently, desperately wished that this was not the wolf that the seer had referred to. A quick place of the lens over the eyes revealed no change. Granny encroached upon the panicked crowd to see what had upset her grandchild on such an auspicious occasion. "Oh thank the Gods, I didn't turn him," Ruby cried. With a scoff, the grey-haired old wolf interjected, "Of course not, girl! You can't change anyone in that form."

Ruby and Snow leaned on one another in relief soothing the rattled child together. Regina settled a harsh glare on her sister silently judging her for stirring up trouble. Unphased by her sister's admonishment, Zelena remarked in relief, "Thank goodness, I thought for a moment you were recruiting playmates for your cub." Green eyes rose slowly widening as auburn brose rose towards the shewolf's hairline at the shocking statement. Completely oblivious to the reaction the redhead held out a gift box. "I brought you a present. It's flannel lingerie. You can thank me later," the witch remarked with a cheeky grin.

Numb fingers took the box absent thought as Ruby asked, "What do you mean my cub?" All the surrounding women stared at the former midwife awaiting the answer. "Well isn't it obvious?" Zelena looked from face to face as though they were all incredibly stupid. When their dumbfounded expressions didn't change the witch turned to her sister for support, "Surely you noticed it." Regina's lips parted as inspiration struck announcing, "I knew something was different. Your glow!" Snow, Belle, and Henry turned delighted smiles on the stunned shewolf.

Ruby's mind spun wildly in fear that this was somehow a cruel hoax playing on her desires as she stammered, "But I couldn't! I mean how.. how did this happen?!" At the sound of her beloved upset, Mulan immediately rushed to her side. Zelena smiled wickedly as she taunted the bride to be, "Well when two people love each other very, very much…" Regina interjected with a sharp, "Zelena!" Completely confused by all the excitement Mulan asked, "What's going on here?!" The redhead offered a sadistically delighted grin as she informed the warrior, "You're going to be a papa." Brown eyes widened hugely at the news before turning to her fiancé glowing with delight.

Mulan began to stroke her beloved's stomach in overjoyed awe of the miracle within. Still afraid to embrace this mad hope, Ruby supportively caressed her mate's hand even as she questioned the facts, "But we're both girls!" Zelena sneered at the clear stupidity informing the mother to be, "Yes and you're some magical wolf thingy. And aren't you two true loved whatnots? Clearly, you're compatible, somehow." A sudden thought struck immediately erupting from the shewolf's lips as she gripped her mate's arm announcing, "Your Mushu!" That statement sent nearly every surrounding eyebrow raising in stunned curiosity. Regina's interest actually made it to Her lips to inquire, "Her what now?" With a wicked chuckle, Zelena agreed, "Yes, do tell."

Mulan blushed at the attention shuffling closer to her fiancé. Fa Zhou stepped forward in defense of his bashful child to inform his daughter's friends, "My daughter is not just a hero to our people. She has inherited the family's dragon warrior spirit." A collective "Oh.." swept through the surrounding supporters at the news. "A very potent spirit," Zhou embellished with a playful wink. "Baba," Mulan cried out in shock. Fa Li clung to her husband's side blushing furiously. Ruby smiled with a soft blush fulling understanding how her mother-in-law felt. The former midwife, however, knew there must be more to the tale and pressed for details, "Still there must be more to it than you both having a wild nature, some singular event that sparked this fertilization."

Equally curious Regina added, "Yes, you weren't like this after that first night. It wasn't until you came to my house for dinner. So what happened the night before? I know you said you had a romantic evening." Mulan and Ruby looked at one another with wide eyes in mutual recognition. As the subject was not going away Mulan quickly ushered parents from the scene with a polite, "Mama, Baba, Grandmother, perhaps you'd like to try some of Regina's famous lasagna." Henry and Emma chuckled at the obvious ushering as a blushing David decided to help Mulan.

With the in-laws relocated curious eager eyes settled on the bride to be. As Ruby gathered her courage she politely instructed, "Henry, I think you should go help Mulan." The young man grumbled but obeyed after settled with a stern look from his mothers. As soon as he was out of earshot Zelena leaned closer demanding, "Well?!" A slight nervous nibbling of a plush lip preceded the confession, "Well, both of our animal natures seemed to come out in the woods under the nearly full moon. It felt like they recognized and claimed each other and…. And…"

Unable to stand the suspense any longer Regina demanded, "And?!" Ruby blushed profusely as she admitted the most graphic detail, "She came inside me." A rainbow of stunned, awed, and intrigued expressions flowed through the surrounding women. Zelena applauded the miracle of nature adding a delighted, "Bravo!" Regina smirked wickedly licking Her lips at the enticing concept. Emma blinked in confusion asking, "Wait, how?!" Regina was so overwhelmed by the information She forgot Herself a moment and placed a soothing hand over Her lover's promising, "Don't worry. I'll explain later, dear."

Snow looked down at the gesture with shock recalling their earlier familiarity. If there had been any doubt in the princess's mind her daughter's next words abolished it mercilessly. "By explain, do you mean give examples," Emma inquired eagerly just as lost to their surroundings. Ruby tried to interject having noticed Snow's expression, but Regina spoke more quickly promising in a seductive purr, "Of course." Snow, Belle and Zelena's jaws all fell in shared shock. Oblivious to anything but her bright future Emma smiled stating, "Okay, I'm good."

No sooner were those words spoke than they were challenged by Snow's sharp cry of, "Emma!" Jade eyes bulged slowly sliding to the side as she realized who all was around her at the moment. It had been so easy to forget in that happy moment surrounded by friends that they had only shared their happy news with three of them and certainly not the Savior's mother. Regina flinched at the cry seeming to come back to Herself. The queen attempted to compose Herself holding out soothing hands in Snow's general direction as she began, "Now, Snow try to be calm."

Belle bit down on her lips at the strange scene. Zelena openly chuckled remarking, "Well, I guess the wolf isn't the only Sapphic one, eh sis?" A dark gaze glared at the redhead a moment. Just then Charming raced to his wife's side asking, "What's wrong?!" In support of her new friend Mulan was quick on his heels curious of what might have disturbed his wife. With a sharp look at Emma Snow replied to her husband, "Ask your daughter!" A bevy of looks from amused to curious to completely baffled landed on the anxious blonde expecting an answer. "Well, I.. uh.."

Regina bit her lip wanting desperately to save Her lover from this crucible. Henry saw the tension and stepped in like a gentleman placing a supportive hand on each of his mothers' shoulders announcing, "They're in love. Isn't it great?" His broad engaging smile silently dared anyone to argue. The adults collectively took a step back unwilling to challenge the statement. As the words slowly sunk in they did bring a measure of peace to the ruffled princess. Slowly gathering her thoughts Snow asked for clarification, "So you're in love?" The idea that what existed between the two women in a more than unconventional relationship wasn't just some tawdry affair was comforting at least.

The lovers heaved a sigh of relief at the rescue before turning tender smiles to one another, but it was Regina who answered, "Yes, we are." Emma's breath caught in her throat at the previously unheard words. "You love me," the savior asked sweetly stunned. Regina cupped that treasured cheek gathering the courage to finally say it out loud, "Yes, I love you." Without a care for who might be watching or what they might think the blonde rushed forward capturing those plush lips in a ferociously tender kiss.

"Aww," Ruby cooed leaning into her fiancé who held her with a gentle smile. Henry smiled in broad delight to see his mothers so happy. Belle and Zelena clapped lightly at the endearing scene. Snow blinked slowly trying to process this strange news as David stammered in confusion, "Wait. Regina, you're the mystery man?" As She emerged from the heart-melting embrace Regina offered a sweet smile gently teasing, "Way to keep up with the show, Charming." David blinked slowly at the news admitting to his daughter, "Well, I can see why you weren't sure if they liked you back."

Struck by this new bit of information Regina turned a sharp look on Her lover shouting, "What?!" Emma flinched under that stare grumbling to her father, "Thanks, dad." Not about to let this go the queen demanded to know, "You talked to your father about us?!" Gallant as ever David stepped forward in defense of his child stating, "Now to be fair, she asked about how her mother and I got together. I just picked up the subtext." The blonde offered a soft penitent smile to her upset lover as Charming continued, "Not such an idiot now, am I?"

Regina turned a warning glare on the attempted rescuer stating sharply, "Debatable." Although many may have run from that look, after many years as the evil queen's prisoner it no longer affected Belle. The intrepid librarian stepped forward offering smugly, "Yes, I'm sure their conversation was nothing like ours." Dark eyes bulged widely at the upstart revealing things promised to be kept secret. "Glad to see your 'story' found a happy conclusion by the way," Belle embellished boldly risking her life. Sandy brows rose as Emma turned a curious look on her lover inquiring, "Your story?" With a snarl, Regina struggled to keep her clawed hand down even though it ached to rise.

"Oh yes, fascinating tale," the librarian continued with an impish expression. "Two friends, a night of drinking.." Occasionally once Belle became wrapped up in a story she forgot all else like who was around her or how it might affect them, which is why she couldn't stop herself from thinking aloud, "Although how Emma reminded you of your attacker I couldn't begin to imagine." Emma shouted in defense of her lover, "Belle!" Ruby slapped her friend soundly across the arm as the thoughtless bookworm clamped a hand over her own mouth.

A deep look of pain and rage overcame the subject of the tale whose eyes closed against this fresh hell. "Oh Gods Regina, I'm SO sorry," Belle called out, but her cries fell on deaf ears. The haunted brunette stepped forward jaw clenching to growl, "You know sometimes I feel bad for all the horrors I put you through, but then some days it doesn't seem like enough." Regina spun sharply on her heel quickly exiting the agonizing scene along with the diner. The night air did little to cool Her temper or ease Her mind.

Emma followed quickly on Her heels calling out, "Oh God baby, I'm so sorry. Are you alright?" Slight tremors racked the royal form as Regina replied sharply, "No, I'm not alright!" The kindhearted blonde flinched at the obvious truth approaching her lover cautiously. Snow emerged from the diner just in time to see her daughter carefully approach her stepmother from behind asking in a gentle voice, "Is it okay if I hold you?" Suddenly it became clear to the princess just what sort of attack Belle had meant.

The stunning truth kept her silent as Regina nodded replying in a fragile voice, "Please do." Emma needed no further invitation gently enfolding her lover in loving supportive arms. Quiet steps carried the princess in front of the queen to face Her with a tender stroke on the arm offering, "I'm so sorry, Regina." Snow knew her stepmother was a proud woman and this pain must run deep even if the source was baffling. Regina flinched and hissed recoiling from the touch further confusing the princess. David raced outside but sensing the tension between his wife and stepmother he stayed back and silent rather than interfere.

Regina shook Her head fighting back the tears demanding, "Not you, Snow." The three Charmings looked on in puzzlement at the statement. "I can't take this from you," the queen elaborated. Snow retracted her hands curling her arms around herself as she apologized in confusion, "I'm sorry." Those words from that girl cut through the queen like a knife. As the proud beauty closed Her eyes against the pain the tears She had fought so long spilled over as She pleaded, "Please don't, Snow."

The pale petite beauty shook her head in confusion asking, "What have I done?" Dark swimming eyes opened as a raw voice, aching in agony replied, "I don't want you to be sorry… because I never wanted you to know." The baffled expression on Her stepdaughter's face forced the details the queen had hoped never to share. Regina gripped Her lover's arms around Her tightly drawing strength from that connection as She revealed, "Even when I hated you, even when I wanted to crush your heart in my hands…. I never wanted to break it this way."

"What are you talking about," Snow replied completely unable to fathom those inconceivable words. From his perch, the truth wrapped around David like a cold knot in his gut. Prince Charming carefully crossed to his wife's side to be near her in her encroaching hour of need. Plush lips trembling Regina pushed passed the pain to clarify, "One thing you and I always shared was a deep love for our fathers." A slow look of horror crossed pixieish features as the queen continued, "And as much as I hated Him for what He did I never wanted to destroy your memory of Him this way."

"No, that can't be," Snow screamed against the truth as the facts fell like tumblers in her mind. Who else could have done it? When Regina had married Him She had been pure, never having had the chance to truly be with Daniel. It wasn't until after the wedding that She began to study magic and was able to defend Herself against such attacks. The window of opportunity for the tragedy was slim indeed. Tears fell over pale cheeks as the princess denied the obvious truth, "My father wouldn't do that!" Her husband's strong supportive arms surrounded her as she cried out, "He was a good man!"

Regina shut Her eyes tightly against the lashing out tears spilling down Her face. Emma's jaw clenched torn between rage at her grandfather and concern for her lover. Overcome by the later the savior gently stroked the tears away hoping beyond hope to provide some measure of comfort and support. Regina cradled that hand to Her cheek drawing strength from that tenderness. With a swallow to clear the clog of tears from Her throat the agonized beauty replied, "He was… until He was drunk and His knights reminded Him of His legal rights to my body."

At those last words, David and Emma exchanged looks of naked rage at the concept. Snow's gaze lifted slowly to face the truth as she trembled from the raw force of it. Seeing that young woman that She had once rescued Regina wanted to reach out and rescue Her from this awful truth. With practiced skill the queen pushed down Her own pain to offer in a shaking voice, "And He did. He had every right to claim what was His. I'm probably just making a lot of nothing. I'm so sorry, Snow."

Emma's voice growled near her lover's ear arguing, "No!" David quickly spoke up in support of his daughter and Regina stating in a firm voice, "There is no excuse for what He did." Snow broke free of her husband's arms to rush toward her stepmother gripping Her firmly by the arms, "Stop it!" Fear gripped dark eyes terrified by what that slip of a girl might say. The princess shook the trembling queen demanding, "Don't you make excuses for Him. This is His fault, not yours! You have nothing to apologize to me for, ever again. It's I who owe you everything."

Without asking Snow threw her arms firmly around her stepmother holding Her tightly. Emma watched her lover's reaction closely prepared to remove her mother if necessary. However, Regina gratefully returned the embrace trembling together with the girl she had protected from the truth for so long. As they cried together each stroked the other's hair in silent comfort for all that both women had lost in that castle. They cried for their innocence and hope and all that they could have shared if only things had been different.

When Regina returned the embrace Emma stepped back silently allowing them their moment. As she stood to the side worry for the woman she loved naked on her face a strong arm curled around her shoulders. Finally in a place where she could accept the love and support of family the former orphan leaned into her father letting him comfort her. When the tears ran dry the two women separated a bit offering each other weak but encouraging smiles. With a world of wonder in her eyes for the strength and courage of her beautiful stepmother Snow remarked, "Regina, you have done so much for me…" Sparing her daughter a gentle look she continued, "…and for my family." Emma smiled softly in return delighted at the possibility that her parents might accept their love.

A gentle focus returned to the queen remarking, "You have more than earned every accolade and privilege bestowed upon you. And I'm going to make sure that everyone sees you the way I see you now." Regina blinked in confusion at the statement as the princess knelt before Her. Snow promised in a gentle tone, "I will do this later publicly, but I want you to know here and now that I swear my undying fealty to you, My Queen." The startled regent gasped stunned by the gesture.

David proudly joined his wife at her stepmother's feet proclaiming, "As do I." Plush lips trembled at the remarkable offer. With a brilliant smile, Emma joined her parent's to kneel before her lover stating, "You already have my heart. I'll gladly add my sword and magic to the mix at your disposal- whatever you need, whenever you need it." The tender repetition of her initial vow touched Regina deeply bringing tears of joy to Her eyes as She extended a hand to her lover. The savior gently took that hand rising to stand next to the woman she loved.

Overcome by emotion and flooded with that most tenuous of sensations, hope, Regina lovingly stroked a treasured cherubic cheek pouring out Her heart, "Before you, I didn't believe in happy endings." With an apologetic look to Her stepdaughter and son-in-law, She continued, "Maybe that's why I tried so hard to destroy them." David and Snow smiled in gentle forgiveness at the statement. Dark eyes swelled with love as they returned to the amazing creature that had healed Her heart confessing, "But now I… I believe." With those impassioned words, Regina fused Her lips with those of the woman She loved.

In that instant, a wave of light magic burst from the two flowing over the town. Just then, Leroy emerged from the diner. Struck by the gusty shockwave of true love's kiss Grumpy remarked gruffly before taking another swig off of his beer, "About damn time."

-THE END-