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Regina Mills-Swan stood in the center of the lab. She and her son have been in this building for almost three years now and it seemed that things would be turned around soon. She did not like it here and she missed her lovely White House house located on Mifflin Street in Storybrooke Maine. She would give anything to go back there to see the smiling faces of the townsfolk, to be a whole family again…. Sadly Regina had to leave that all behind and something… someone who meant so much to her. She tried not to think about it, about her… but here she was thinking about the afternoon.
There was just so much blood, a trail of it leading to the bedroom where they had relocated in hopes they would be safe there and out of sight. So far it worked and they were safe for now which was more they could say for their neighbors. She could hear their cries and screams in agony and fear as they were hunted and ripped to shreds by their other neighbors. It made Regina's stomach tightened into a knot and she could feel its contents rising up in her throat. She was going to be sick.
"Regina…" a voice said softly, causing her to find her wife sitting on the bed facing her. The woman was considerably pale, covered in blood and could barely hold her eyes open. "Baby."
The woman's voice was so hoarse and her words were coming out weak and low. She was getting weaker. "You should rest." Regina offered, taking a step closer. "I'll get you some water and a cloth with cold water. We should try to bring that fever down."
The woman shook her head, her blonde locks moving, shaking a bit with the movement. "You know that wont help, baby…" she said through a rasp. "We know what's happening."
Regina did not want to accept that. She couldn't. She would not. Her wife was going to be fine and they were going to find help together. They were too strong not to. "Emma, you will be fine." Regina pushed even though she saw the woman hunched over, drawing in shallow breaths. "Let me just clean up the wound, we will get some antibiotics and tylenol to bring the fever down. You are going to be fine."
"Regina…" Emma sighed. "Babe, you have to accept…. And you have to start fortifying this place. Until help comes. When I turn you will have to put me down."
"No!" Regina screamed at her and her hand flew to her ears. She couldn't listen to the rest of that sentence. She wouldn't listen to Emma's rasping breaths, she couldn't listen to the screams outside. She was just overwhelmed and she just wanted to scream, letting it all out but she could. Right now, she knew she needed to stay calm. They still had their eight year old son to think about. She exhaled and slowly moved her hands and opened her eyes. She looked at Emma who was watching her with a heartbroken look on her eyes.
"I don't wanna leave you and Henry." She confessed quietly.
Regina stood there, looking at her wife. She was slipping away, her breathing was so ragged and she appeared so tired. An array of emotions flowed through Regina, sadness, hopelessness, helplessness but when she got to anger, she stayed there. Her blood was boiling and she was seeing red. Her chest tightened and her thoughts were racing. Before she knew it she was taking it out on Emma, "Then don't leave!" She hissed sharply. "You don't get to leave, Emma. You are supposed to protect me and Henry then we will wait for safety."
Emma shook her head weakly. "You two have to stay safe without me. You are safe here. The board's on the windows and doors should keep you safe until the military comes."
"Emma!" Regina cried, she was suffocating. She can't live in a world without Emma.
"Regina, I love you so much." The blonde woman sighed. "And I'm thankful to have lived a life with you."
Regina knew she was losing Emma and she couldn't pretend any longer. A gut wrenching despair came over her. Before she could fight it, a soft sub bubbled up from her chest and the tears filled her eyes before spilling over. "Emma…" she choked on a sob. She reached up and tried to wipe away her tears but they just kept coming. "I love you to the moon and back. You made me so happy."
Emma smiled softly at that and she shut her eyes. "Good. All I ever wanted was to make you happy."
Regina sighed. She couldn't believe this was happening. This was the worst day of her life. "Emma."
Emma's smile remained. "I'm gonna lay down for a sec. Tell Henry I want to talk to him."
Regina nodded her head then walked over to the bed. Each step breaking her heart more and more. She stopped in front of Emma. "Let me help you up."
Emma nodded slowly then let Regina help her. Regina held onto Emma with an arm around her waist and Emma had an arm across her neck. The heat was radiating off of Emma, she was burning up. From there, Regina one handedly pulled the duvet back and then helped Emma into the bed. Emma went down with a pained grunt. Regina just wanted to scream as she watched Emma lie there helplessly. Emma was always so powerful and Regina was so enamored by her strength. Now, here the woman lay, weak and dying.
Feeling herself getting frustrated, she leaned over and pulled the collar of Emma's shirt down. There was a huge bite mark, blood was oozing out of it and it was beginning to get infected already. "I'll get the first aid kit." She told Emma and started to head to the bathroom. "One moment."
Emma nodded but said nothing else. Regina was glad that Emma did not protest. She walked into the bathroom and went straight to the medicine cabinet. There she looked at her reflection. She barely recognized herself, she was bruised, cut and covered in blood. None of it was hers either. She turned the faucet on and ran her hands under it, trying to clean herself up just a bit. Once her hands were clean, she bent and started splashing water on her face, cleaning up even more. She then leaned up and reached for the towel dried her face and hands. She then grabbed another cloth and turned the water to cold. Their water usually got freezing cold so when she ran the cloth under the water it got cold enough. She collected everything and headed out of the room. There she found Emma lying there on her back, fighting sleep.
"Emma, I'm here." Regina announced as to not surprise her.
"Hey, babe." Emma said softly.
Regina hurried to the bed. She sat on the edge of it and looked at the woman her heart ached for even when they were together. Emma looked at her and the woman looked at her, Regina gazed into those gorgeous green eyes that she could always read. Right now, she knew Emma was trying to memorize her just as Regina was doing the same.
"Hey, no matter what you and Henry have to survive." Emma whispered urgently.
Regina frowned and nodded. "We will."
"If you survive, I will survive too."
Regina sat quietly absorbing Emma's words. She understood them and she felt tears pushing at her eyes again so she tried to distract herself. "Let's get you cleaned up."
Emma nodded and Regina turned to the first aid kit. She opened the pack of wipes, opened them then used a few to clean Emma up. She started with her face and gently started wiping the dirt and blood away. Before long she was staring into the gorgeous face of her girlfriend.
"Oh look at that, I can see your freckles again." Regina said, trying to smile. She loved Emma's freckles and her dimples. The cleft in her chin, that Regina lingered at with the wipe, trying to memorise the feel of it. "And your beautiful face."
Emma smiled a little. "I appreciate that your face is here."
Regina felt a hand on her thigh. She looked down and found Emma's there. "I hope you're not trying to get any right now. The world is ending out there."
Emma chuckled weakly. "Sure."
Regina smirked then moved onto Emma's hands. She wiped them clean and rested one back on her thigh. She went back into the kit. She pulled out disinfectant and gauze. "This might burn."
"Gina, I have a chunk bitten out of my collar. That burning is the least of my issues. If--" Emma's words faded into a pained hiss when Regina sprayed her open wound with that. "Fuck!"
Well, that's the loudest Emma has spoken in the last hour. She continued to clean the wound and then she bandaged it up. They both knew it was pointless since Emma's fate was sealed but neither of them would say that out loud. Instead Regina worked away.
"Okay, all done." Regina said, pulling her hand away.
"Thank you, Doc." Emma said.
"You're welcome, sheriff." Regina smiled.
Emma lifted her hand and placed it on Regina's cheek. The woman's palm was scolding and clammy but Regina did not care, she always felt safe with Emma's touch. This was no different. She closed her eyes and relaxed into the touch. The thumb brushed away the tears that had started falling again.
"It's okay, Regina." Emma whispered.
"When and how is it okay?" Regina asked without pulling away.
"Come to bed." Emma asked.
Regina shook her head. "You need water."
Emma shook her head. "That can wait."
Regina wanted to protest but this was a dying woman's request. How could she deny it?
She nodded her head and that was when Emma pulled her hand away. Regina missed the touch immediately but that only drove her to stand up, round the bed and climb in. She carefully and slowly moved closer to Emma, lying down beside her. The woman turned her head and looked at her, the adoration was in those green eyes as usual and she appreciated it even more. Regina moved in closer, pressing her body against Emma's side, resting her hand on Emma's stomach, draping her leg across Emma's thigh and laid her head on her shoulder. They were cuddling like they usually did but this one felt desperate and heavy. She knew this was one of the last times she would hold Emma so despite the noise outside and Emma's imminent doom, she will rest, they will rest and just be together.
She felt a soft hit lips pressed to her forehead and she smiled at the gesture she will cherish it. She would let the world burn around them just to have a final moment with Emma.
When the lab door opened, Regina looked up and saw two other doctors entering. Doctor Whale and Jekyll. Their team consisted of a Virologist, pathologist and an epidemiologist. All three of them were rockstars in their field. Whale was the epidemiologist and Jekyll the, you guessed it, pathologist. They also had another virologist and a vaccine specialist working on a vaccine. Their last few tests were a failure but they were hoping this one works. They desperately needed a breakthrough of some kind.
"Good morning." Whale said as he walked over to the locker containing clear packages.
"How did you sleep?" Jeckyl asked as he joined the other man.
Regina shrugged her shoulders. "Same as always. Waking up to screaming and images of my wife trying to kill me."
"Ah, the typical night time lineup." Whale muttered as he started putting on his hazmat suit.
"Exactly." Regina said dryly and then rolled her eyes. "I just want this to be over."
"It's been three years." Jeckyl said as he put on his lab coat. "The world we know is gone."
Regina did not like to think that. She liked to think there was still hope. There was still hope that she and Emma could be together. "Maybe not."
"That's the spirit." Whale said, leaving a gloved finger at her. "Now, let's get in there and see if we've finally saved the human race."
Regina nodded her head and grabbed her surgical mask. Over the last few months, Regina and her teammates have become something like a family. They cared for each other, supported each other and even spent time together outside of work. They all knew and adored Henry and they were very protective since Henry was one of the youngest children living in their compound.
"Let's go." She said, grabbing her supply bag. The two men followed her.
The room was white, and an examination table sat in the middle of the room. In a corner were matching cabinets. On the wall before them were about a dozen cages. They were empty.
The three doctors turned their attention to a commitment room at the back. A tall man stood behind the glass, hands pressed to the cold surface. He stared at them.
"Morning." Whale greeted as he and Jeckyl headed over to him.
Regina placed her bag on the examination table. There she pulled out her stethoscope, recorder and flashlight. She then headed over to where the three men were talking amongst themselves. When she joined the men turned serious.
"Good morning, Mr. Tillman." Regina greeted with a dip of her head.
"Morning, Doctor." The man said with a grin. It wasn't suggestive, just playful.
Regina smiled and shook her head. She pressed the record button on the recorder and put it to her mouth. "October third, twenty thirty-five." She spoke into the device as she checked his file. "Michael Tillman, age forty, height six feet, weight two hundred sixteen."
"The girl who came in and weighed me today didn't freak." He said.
Regina turned off the recorder and handed it to Whale who spoke. "I don't know why they panic. You stand on a scale in your room that flashes the results. They just have to jot it down."
Regina nodded her agreement. "Precisely." She looked up at him and asked. "How are you, Michael?"
The man smiled. "Pleass, call me Mike."
"Mike." Regina replied with a smile. "Amy fatigue or loss of appetite."
"No, and no." The man answered with a sigh. "I feel wonderful."
Regina took the recorder from Whale. "Patient is not exhibiting any symptoms brought on by infection. Seventy-two hours since infection."
She looked at the other two doctors and they shared a look with her. Michael Tillman had been infected when he was working on the wall with a few others. They rushed him in and immediately administered the vaccine they had created. That was seventy two hours ago. Usually the incubation period for the virus was between five minutes and twenty four. He never turned and he had no symptoms.
She gasped and right then again there, she realized that their vaccination was a success. She looked at the men who were high fiving and whopping with joy. She felt the same. This was promising. This meant that she could vaccinate her son and prevent him from getting sick. She did not want to see her son turn into one of those things. It was her biggest fear, especially after Emma. She couldn't lose another person like that so she found comfort in that.
"Michael," she said, finally looking at the man with wide eyes.
"Yes?" He questioned curiously.
"We need to draw some blood." She said, That way they can see what is going on.
The man nodded without hesitation. "Figured you would need it." He paused. "Will you be doing it?"
The doctors knew that the man had the hots for Regina but he never made her uncomfortable so she had no problem working with him. "Sure."
He chuckled then. "Awesome."
Regina nodded her head and went back to the examination table and set her items down. She then started searching through her bag for her items. She grabbed the needle, tubes, alcohol wipes and tourniquet and gauze. She put most of it in her pocket and what didn't fit, she carried which was only two. Walking over to the door, she swiped her card and punched in the code. There was a soft click indicating that the door was open. Regina pulled it the rest of the way and walked inside.
The man was seated on his cot, leaned forward, elbows on his knees. He looked up at her and smiled. She returned it but he couldn't see it through her mask.
"This will only take a minute." Regina said then you will have the day to yourself."
The man did not look too happy about that. In fact he looked disappointed. "I have every day to myself. The tv and the old movies they gave me is the only thing that entertains me these days."
Regina looked sad about that. "So, let's test you so we can get you out of here."
"I like the sound of that." The man said, rolling up his sleeve and offering his forearm to her.
Regina walked over to him and started setting the items out on the table beside him. He watched her for a moment and then said, "My wife used to wear perfume like that."
"Oh?"
"Yeah, what's that,Chanel?" He asked, watching her.
"Dior." Regina replied as she changed her gloves. "My wife bought it for me."
Regina glanced up at him, trying to gauge his reaction but it was clear. His face took on a look of shock then disappointment before settling on acceptance. "Well, she has good taste."
Regina nodded her agreement. "She does. She married me."
He chuckled at that. "Yeah and she's damn lucky too."
Regina was the lucky one though. Sometimes she couldn't believe that she had had Emma, even for a split second. They had been so happy together and she wanted that back. As of now, she had a job to do.
She picked up the package with the alcohol pads in them and she started cleaning the bend of his arms with it. When she was done, she looked up at him. "Make a fist." she said.
He nodded and complied.
She tied on the tourniquet and started feeling for a vein. She found one fairly quickly. She then grabbed the needle and began to draw blood.
The man barely reacted as she filled three tubes for testing. They did not draw blood from him a lot. In fact this is only the third time. When she finished, she pressed a piece of gauze to his arm and put a bandaid on top. "All done." She said, "Thanks."
"Do I get a lollipop?" The man asked jokingly.
Regina chuckled. "Absolutely."
She started disposing of everything in the hazardous waste. She put her gloves in too. She then put on another pair. The man looked up at her. "Will I be out of here soon?" He asked. "I just wanna be with my kids."
"I understand. I promise to get you out of here as soon as possible." Regina said. She knew that he had two children around Henry's age. Ava and Nicholas. They needed their father and he needed them. "I will go run the tests now."
"Thank you." The man said.
With a dip of her head, Regina started to leave with the tubes of blood. His voice stopped her though. "I mean it." He said. "I want something sweet. I'm tired of the rabbit food they've been giving me."
Regina hummed and nodded. "I will see to it that you yet something better. See you soon."
The man nodded and Regina walked to the door and let herself out. She met the other two who were waiting for her at the door. She held the tubes up and said, "Let's see how much progress we've made."
Regina sat in the lab, face glued to a microscope while the two men paced back and forth behind her. Regina found that to be very unhelpful and if she were being honest, annoying. She stayed focused and then relief came over her. She sat up from the microspore and looked at the men. "The virus is gone. There is no trace of it. It's like it never was."
Whale's eyes widened. "What? Then it worked better than we expected."
"Yes," Jeckyll agreed. "That means we have a cure and not just a vaccine." He looked at Regina. "May I have a look?"
Regina nodded and got up from the seat. The man took her seat and studied the blood through the microscope for a long while then he looked up at them. "It's a cure."
Whale looked like he was about to burst. "So that means…. That… we could cure the infected?"
"Well, hypothetically." Jeckyl said.
"Well, we need to test it." Whale said. "Let's get an infected and test it on them."
"Sure but where do we get an infected?" Jeckyl asked.
Regina was quiet for a moment as she contemplated. She knew that this may be a bad idea but then she looked up at her co-workers. She then said softly, 'I know where to get one."
Before they could do anything they had to be approved by the director and head of security. They tried so hard to keep the infected out and here Regina and her team wanted to bring one in. Regina understood their hesitation; they have all been drastically affected by this epidemic. Someone has lost someone they love to an infected person.
"That's why I think this cure is so important.." Regina argued from her place at the table, adjacent to the director. Mallory Grey was the current director after the last two had been eaten. Mallory has survived longer than the other two which was impressive.
The blonde woman with the gorgeous piercing blue eyes watched Regina. Her gaze was intense and it caused Regina to shift a bit in her seat. Regina could feel her teammates watching her as well. It was no secret that Mallory was attracted to Regina and wanted nothing more than to have the younger brunette in her bed but Regina was loyal to Emma.
Subconsciously she began playing with the wedding band on her finger. She was doing this for her love."Ms. Grey, I ask that you hear me out."
Mal fell silent and nodded at Regina. "Alright. Go on."
"The vaccine worked one hundred percent on Michael Tillma.. He did not have a single symptom from the virus or side effects from the vaccine. I think that's pretty damn impressive." Regina began. "The vaccine works but we still appear appetizing to the zombies."
"How do you know?" Mal asked with a raise of her brow.
"The infected rat we had tried to eat the other." Regina explained. "So we are immune from getting infected from a bite but we could still be eaten." When she was positive that she had everyone's attention she continued. "I think that if we work on curing the infected. We can live safely again."
"And you think it will work on a fully infected?" Mal asked.
Regina hummed and nodded. "Indeed. These infected humans are not dead like we see in zombie films. They are very much alive and they feed on uninfected to survive. I've seen them drink water out of a puddle as well. So, they have needs, this means they are alive which means they can be cured." We just need to experiment." She offered. "We need a specimen."
Mal frowned and leaned back in her chair. "And you know where to get a specimen?"
Regina nodded, "Yes. I need to go back home."
Mal raised a brow but then nodded. "Alright. Do it. I want results, Regina."
Regina nodded. "And you will have them. I promise."
Mal stared at her for a moment, her eyes locked on Regina's dark eyes. "Be safe."
Regina smiled a little. "Aren't I always."
Mal rolled her eyes and looked at Graham. The head is security. "Permission granted. They may go and Graham you are in charge. Bring them back in one piece."
The man saluted her. "Yes, Director."
Mal nodded her head. "Meeting adjourned."
She stood up as well as everyone else. She then shook everyone's hand but when she got to Regina, her hand lingered for a moment. She then leaned in close and whispered, "I hope she's worth it."
Regina stared, speechless. The older woman then winked at her and swept out of the room with the other following her. She shook her head, clearing it. Of course she's worth it.
Graham moved a bit closer to them and said, "Give me two days to get my team together and then we're heading out."
The scientist noted since none of them had any chosid. They weren't equipped to survive out there on their own; it was Graham's call. They accepted that.
"Alright." Regina said. "Gives me time to get ready too."
And oh god did she need to get ready.
Regina arrived home late. Home was located in a house inside of the sage zone. They lived on a street with other houses on either side of them and across. When she had first arrived here, he was surprised that all this existed but it turns out that the creator of this place, Mr. Gold had been paranoid about the end of the world so he created the safezone. It's a shame so many made fun of him because it came in handy. They rounded up all of the greatest minds and the rich and brought them here when it happened. She's been here ever since.
She walked up the path to the house and to the porch. Before she could make it to the door and it was flung open. Her son barreled out and crashed into her, hugging her around her waist. The little boy buried his face in her stomach and mumbled something.
"What?" Regina asked, rubbing his back.
"I missed you." He whispered. "You work a lot."
Regina kissed the top of his head. Sure, she worked a lot and that meant she did not see her son as much as she would like but she was doing this for a reason, this is important. "I know, I'm just trying to make the sick people well again and that takes a lot of time. I'm sorry but soon we will all be together."
Regina hoped Henry got her meaning. Although, Henry behaves like he had forgotten Emma. This behaviour began shortly after they left their home. Regina was concerned so when they arrived, she took Henry to the pediatrician and she told her that it was a part of his trauma. He made himself pretend to forget Emma to cope. Now, that made more sense to Regina than her son forgetting one of his mothers, especially Emma since they were so close.
"Okay." Henry said, looking up at her, resting his chin on her stomach. "I will be patient."
Regina kissed his forehead. "That's my boy."
"Oh Henry, let your mother in the house. She's been at work all day. She must be tired."
Regina looked up to find her sister standing in the middle of the foyer with her hands on her hips. "Hey, Zelena."
"Regina." Her older sister said,coldly and she knew she was in trouble. Now the mystery was finding out what she did.
"Henry, come on." Regina said, patting his back. "Let go."
With a deep sigh, the little boy reluctantly released her and to a few steps back back so she could step inside. Regina shut the door behind her. Being in their little home was nice. She had her sister, her son but it felt incomplete. She will always feel incomplete without Emma so she had to do this.
"You're late." Zelena said, "Welcome home."
Regina walked closer to her sister and kissed her cheek. "Thank you."
"How was work?" Zelena asked, watching Regina set her things down.
"It was good. Long day though." Regina said. "Mal agreed to let me go and fetch… what I told you about."
Zelena's blue eyes widened. "She did what, now?"
Regina looked at her son and found him looking between them clearly trying to find out what they were talking about. "Does this have to do with Nick and Ava's dad?" He asked finally. "He came home Friday and they were so happy."
Regina nodded, "Yes it does. We cured him, Henry." She smiled. "We cured a bite victim."
Henry furrowed his brow and was quiet for a moment, comparing this. He then said, "Does that mean you can cure everyone?"
For the first time in three years, Regina was truly hopeful. "I believe we can."
"Good." Henry said brightly and smiled at her.
Regina smiled back because she agreed..
Zelena interrupted them, "Henry, go in the living room and read or something, please?"
"I guess you guys are gonna talk about something I shouldn't know about …" he grumbled.
"Yes." Regina admitted, as she stepped out of her heels. "But I will be with you in a minute."
"Okay." Henry said then turned to leave. But he turned back and said, "I hope you can bring back people we lost too. I miss them. ."
Regina frowned but Henry turned back around and headed into the living room. That was clear. He was talking about his mother. Regina wanted to push and learn what he remembered about her but she was reminded by Zelena that they had something to discuss.
She started heading for the kitchen, her sister following. They were quiet for the walk but as soon as they crossed the threshold Zelena said, "You are going to get her."
Regina shrugged. "I vowed I would cure her when I found out it was curable. I'm going to start testing it on her." She sighed as she walked over to the kitchen counter where a pot leftovers sat. "It's the right thing to do."
"Regina, you haven't seen her in three years. I know she looks like one of those other things." Zelena came to stand with her at the counter but Regina pushed off and went to wash her hands. "Can you handle that?"
Regina tried not to think about Emma being dirty, covered in blood and emaciated because she doesn't know how to properly feed herself anymore. She knew that Emma would be growling and trying to kill her because she had before. "I have to be able to handle it. It's about me. It's about her. I can't just leave her like that, Zelena. Not when I have the means to help her."
Zelena sighed and just watched Regina dry her hands for a moment before saying. "Just remember that she's a patient."
"I will…" Regina sighed.
She headed back to the counter and picked up the food that Zelena had set aside for her. She picked up the plate and headed into the dining room. There sat a round dining table with four chairs around it only proving that someone is missing. She took a seat at it and Zelena sat across from her. She could feel her sister's eyes on her as ate. They were having chicken and vegetables. The safe zone provided fresh meat vegetables. There was always a lot of supplies because they kept the population down.
"Do you need to go?" Zelena asked finally.
Regina finished chewing her bite before answering. "To make sure they handle her with care and respect. Despite what she's become, she's still my wife and my first love. She deserved to be handled with respect."
Zelena leaned back in her chair, finding her arms over her chest. "You don't need to go. You're going because you want to "
"You know me so well…" Regina sassed.
"And here I thought you would be professional."
"Hey, that's your fault for thinking that. Not me."
Zelena huffed.
This resulted in Regina sighing. "Zelena, you know Emma was and will always be my one true love. She doesn't deserve this."
Zelena's expression softened and she nodded her head. "I understand. Just be careful."
Regina smiled at her sister. "I will…."
It was clear that her sister did not like this idea but there was nothing she could do about it. But this is for the best, she will see.
They laid there in silence, Regina's heart breaking more and more with each passing second. Emma's breathing had become shallow, her movements weak like her limbs were too heavy. They didn't speak much but they both already knew what they were going to say. The last decade were the happiest years of her life. They bought their dream home, started a family, like they always wanted. The only thing she could ask for was for Emma to be okay and the universe had given her enough so she knew she wasn't getting that but maybe if she held her she wouldn't go.
"What will you tell Henry?" Asked in a low rasp.
"I don't know." Regina whispered. This was still unreal to her. She had no idea how she was going to tell their son that his mother was going to become one of those things.
"We have to come up with something." Emma said quietly.
"We will." Regina whispered. "We have time."
Emma hummed weakly. They both knew that was a lie but Emma must have found comfort in Regina's body warmth because she did not protest. They were left just lying there in silence again as Emma slipped in and out of consciousness.
"You know what you have to do, right?" Emma asked again, the sudden sound startling Regina.
She looked up at Emma, "when I turn, you have to put me down. My gun is right there."
Regina shook her head. "I won't."
"I won't." Regina said with a finality that caused her wife to sigh in irritation. "I'm going to find a way to cure you. No matter what."
Emma smiled a little. "Well, if anyone can, it's you. One of the top virologists in the country."
Regina kissed Emma's jaw then whispered, "I promise."
"I know, baby." Emma replied tiredly.
They were quiet again. They existed in the room a little longer, just the two of them. As more time passed, the warmer Emma became until she was scorching to the touch.
"Do you want some water?" Regina asked. She wanted to keep Emma hydrated but the woman had been fighting her.
Emma shook her head. "No. It's a waste."
"But it doesn't make sense for you to lie here uncomfortable." Regina argued. "Why are you being so stubborn?"
Emma drew in a ragged, labored. She then fell silent and relaxed back against the pillow. She could feel her slipping. "Remember the good times, Regina." Emma told her. "Forget this, forget all the fights. Forget losing me. Remember the day we promised to love each other forever. Remember when we brought Henry home. The happiest and most exhausting night of our lives."
Regina chuckled at that. "It was. We had a good life, Emma."
"We did." Emma agreed. "I'm just sorry I'm leaving you so soon with so many broken promises.."
"I don't care about any of that. Look at all we've accomplished." Regina tried to smile but she ended up crying instead. "We live our dream for a while."
Emma nodded her agreement then reached up a hand and stroked Regina's cheek. Even her fingertips were boiling hot. "I agree. My dream was a happy life with someone who loved me and I got that."
Regina wiped the tears from her cheeks. She knew Emma wouldn't last another hour. "I love you with everything in me and I always will."
Emma smiled a little and closed her eyes. She let her hand fall away. Regina just watched the woman as she began to rest again and she was glad that they got to speak like this. No matter what happens.
"Moms?" The soft voice drew her attention to the door. "I'm done hiding. I'm scared."
"I know, sweetie." Regina said, extending a hand at the child. He was still terrified she could tell. It was undateable that he wanted to be near his mothers.
He ran into the room and stopped at the bed where he looked down at Emma. He watched her a moment before looking up at Regina, fear in his young eyes, "What's wrong with mom?"
"Henry-" she was cut off by Emma.
"I got bit, kid." Emma said apologetically. "I'm sorry."
Henry frowned. "What?"
"The virus is spread through bites and your mother was bitten. This means she is infected." Regian explained gently.
"That means she will turn into one of those things?" Henry whined. "Like the walking dead?"
"Henry, I'm so sorry." Emma said, reaching out for his hand. "I'm sorry."
Henry moved closer and bent down, resting his head on her chest. Emma hugged him, cradling his head. "Don't turn into one of those things." He whispered through a sob. "Please!"
Regina was aching for both of them and herself. Emma didn't want to go and they didn't want her to. Emma started crying with the little boy while Regina joined in.
She didn't know how long they cried but the next thing she knew, she was waking up in her bed with her son sleeping between her and Emma. She looked at her wife who was lying too still. She stared at her chest until she saw it rise but weakly. That means she's okay. She was wheezing.
Regina reached over and touched her forehead. Her skin had gotten even hotter and it took everything in her to not snatch her hand away in pain. Emma roused from the touch. Regina retracted her hand and started getting out of bed.
"Where are you going?" Emma's voice was lost in her raspy breathing.
"To put cold water on the cloth and to get you some water." Regina answered. "I can't let you stay like this."
Emma did not protest and Regina felt she was too weak to do so. In that case she started leaving the room but Emma's voice stopped her. "Take Henry with you. You might need help carrying everything."
Regina furrowed her brow but did what was asked of her. The two of them awoke the little boy then Emma told him to go help his mother. Groggy, the little boy climbed out of bed and headed to his other mother. As they headed out the room, Emma spoke again.
"I love you two more than anything in this entire world. Hell, I love you more than anything in this galaxy." She whispered.
Regina felt a pang in her chest but she would be right back. "And I love you so much, Emma."
"I love you, mom." Henry said before walking out of the room.
Regina hesitated a moment and watched Emma. The woman mustered up as much strength as she could to smile at Regina. This felt weird, final and Regina did not like that. "Emma, I will be right back."
"Okay." Emma said, a smile still present.
Regina watched Emma for another second before turning to leave. She will be quick.
Regina met Henry in the kitchen. He appeared to be doing a lot better. Not so scared. The shutters on their windows were closed so they couldn't see out but most importantly, no one could see in. She and Emma had boarded up the windows and closed the curtains so they wouldn't be seen. It was working so far but sadly they could still hear everything outside. Snarls from the infected, car screeching, explosions and screams. She looked at her son, standing at the sink frozen and could tell that he was terrified.
"Okay, sweetie." Regina said, moving over to him and starting to help.
This way they could move faster and get back to Emma where they could hear less. Regina filled a bowl with cold water and grabbed a bottle of water and some crackers. She was then finished. "Come on." She said handing him the water and crackers.
The boy accepted and Regina carried the bowl of water out of the kitchen and into the hall. They headed upstairs and to Regina's bedroom.
The first thing she noticed that was weird was that the door was closed. She had left it open for a reason, the second thing she saw was a piece of paper. She placed the bowl down and picked it up. She read the scratchy sloppy handwriting.
"TO REGINA AND HENRY, MY MOON AND MY STARS. THE VERY REASON I BREATHE. I LOVE YOU TWO MORE THAN WORDS CAN EXPLAIN. AND I KNOW YOU LOVE ME TOO. THANKS FOR BEING MY HAPPY ENDING. -LOVE EMMA/MOMMY.
Regina's stomach and heart sank and panic came over her. Dropping the letter, she reached for the door handle and tried to turn it but it was locked. She started banging on the door but there was no response.
"Fuck, fuck!" She screamed. She spun around and saw her son standing there. Tears were pouring down his cheeks and she knew he understood. "Henry, honey, go to your room and close the door. Don't come out until you hear me call your name."
Henry hesitated a moment and etched her with wide eyes. "Mom?"
She didn't have time for this. "Henry, go, now."
Henry decided to obey and backed away before running to his room, slamming the door behind him. Regina nodded and turned back to the door and started banging on it. "Emma, please open up! You don't have to go through this alone."
Regina was terrified for Emma's sake. She kept banging up her hand but she got no reply. She pressed her ear to the door and heard soft grunts and then she started to panic. At that point, she pushed off the door and ran downstairs, down the hall back into the kitchen. She walked right up to their junk draw and yanked open. She rummaged through take out menus and other miscellaneous papers until she found the keys. She grabbed the one labeled Master Bedroom and ran back upstairs. She knocked again and called Emma but did not expect a reply. Instead she stuck the key in the keyhole and turned. It clicked and Regina placed her hand on the knob, turning hesitantly. She then slowly pushed the door open, trying to brace herself for what she would find.
She peeked inside and there she saw Emma standing in the window, with her back to her. Her head was moving from side to side as if she was excitedly watching the scene outside. How was she standing, before she couldn't even move.
"Emma," Regina said softly. In a jerky movement Emma's head whipped around. "My love?"
That seemed to trigger something in the woman. Regina froze when she saw her wife. She was foaming at the mouth, her eyes wide and wild, her top lip lip curled back in a terrifying snarl. She growled low in her chest.
"Emma?" Regina said softly. "You're sick. Let me help you."
Emma crouched down low and let out a sound akin to a roar then she snarled. Regina knew then that she wasn't talking to Emma. Her wife was gone and all that was left was this creature. She backed up again and Emma growled.
"Emma, don't!" Regina shouted.
Emma roared again and in one swift movement. She then crawled across it heading for Regina. Regina gasped and slammed the door before she could get to her.
She felt a hard thud against the door, almost knocking it off the hinges. Regina quickly locked it again. There was more banging and growling behind the door. Regina felt her world had shattered.
"Emma, stop!" She screamed at the door but the noise continued. She pressed her forehead to the door, "please, Emma. It's me."
The banging stopped and for a moment Regina felt hope that the woman recognized her but then there was a loud bang and then she could hear scratching. All hope Regina had vanished at that moment. All she had left was her pain and her loss which billed over, giving way to sobs. She cried from her soul which had lost its mate. The tears wouldn't stop so she slid down the door and pressed her head to the door and just cried as Emma slammed and clawed at the door, wondering how such a beautiful, gentle soul could turn into something so vile.
Regina awoke before her her alarm again which she does alot these days. She often relives the day she lost her love in her dreams. It always jolts her awake. This particular day, she didn't mind. She had to get up early since it was an important day. It felt like it's been a month but it's just been an impossibly long two days. That often happens when you're waiting for something but the day is finally here.
Regina looked at the note from Emma that she keeps under her pillow. She kissed it as she always does then got out of bed and gor Henry up. She then showered, dressed and got ready for the day. She came downstairs, dressed in slacks and flats which she hated but she had to dress practical for this. She met her sister and son in the kitchen. Zelena had gotten him up since she knew she was busy. Henry was pouring more cereal in his bowl. Regina decided to have some toast and coffee.
"Good morning." She said walking over to the counter.
Henry and Zelena looked over at her and studied her for a minute. Regina igbirdd the stares as she put her bread in the toaster then poured herself a cup of coffee. She took a sip and looked up to find them still staring..
"Mom, do you have to go?" Henry asked with a worried furrow of his brow.
"That's what I asked…." Zelena grumbled before stuffing eggs into her mouth.
Henry didn't know who she was going to get exactly but he knew she was leaving the zone to get an infected to experiment on. Regina sighed and looked at her sister then at her son. "Yes, I have to go. Don't worry Graham is the best." She winked. "Besides, your mom is tougher than she looks."
Zelena shook her head. "You're eating your breath. Your mom does what she wants."
Henry sighed. "I see that. Just come back, okay?"
"I always will." Regina promised. She walked over to where he was sitting. "I will always come back. " she kissed his forehead. She pulled back and looked him in the eye. "Always."
He smiled then, seeming relieved "Good."
Regina smiled at him then looked at her sister and kissed her on the cheek. "Stop worrying."
"How can I not?" Zelena grumbled.
Regina sighed and started to say something but then her toast popped up. She straightened up and went to get it. She stopped at the counter and looked at them with a smile. "Everything will be okay."
When Regina arrived at the garage where they were set to meet, she found Graham talking to his men. All of them were dressed in tactical gear with very big guns.
"Good morning." She greeted.
The men looked at her and all mumbled a greeting but Graham stared at her before saying, "Hey, can I talk to you?"
"Sure." Regina said with a shrug.
Graham headed towards her and tilted his head toward the back wall where a tank sat. She followed him and stopped behind the vehicle. Then she looked up at the man awaiting instructions. "Okay, so I am responsible for you. I will watch you but Claude has your flank."
"What?" Regina asked in confusion.
"He'll watch your six." He clarified.
Regina was still confused but she used critical thinking. He meant Claude would watch her ass. "Fair enough."
"Here." He handed her a gun. "You know how to use one of these right?"
"I'm married to a sheriff, so yes."
The man nodded, "perfect. I knew I liked you." He patted her on the shoulder "let's hit it."
He started heading back to the armored bus. Regina started following him. They stopped in front of the men.
"Claude, step forward." Graham ordered.
An older man who was huge with a bald half stepped forward. Saying he was scary was an understatement. It hurt her neck looking up at him.
"Claude, this is Doctor Swan-Mills. She is our lead scientist in the fight to get rid of this virus. Protect her at all costs." Graham told him.
The man smiled at her, "Don't worry those fuckers won't lay a hand on a strand of hair on that gorgeous head."
Graham chuckled and so did Regina. She knew he was not being disrespectful but was simply expressing that he would protect her. "Also," Graham added. "The specimen is important to Doctor Swan-Mills so handle it with care. Mark is a blonde female, long blonde hair, green eyes, five foot six, one twenty pounds and athletic build. May answer to Emma."
Everyone knew that the infected sometimes responded to their names. That's almost the only proof they were human at one point. "I locked her in our bedroom so I know where she is."
"Had she starved?" one of the men asked.
"I hope she hasn't." Regina smiled.
The men nodded and so did Graham. "Alright. Let's get the fuck out of here."
The men laughed and started boarding the bus. Regina started to board when she heard someone calling to her. She stopped on the first step and looked back. She chuckled at what she saw. Whale and Jekyll were running up.
"What the fuck." Graham muttered when they reached them.
"What are you doing here?" She asked.
Jekyll was winded when he said,"We're coming with you."
"We want to come and protect you." Whale added.
Regina smiled at that. She did feel safer with her team.
Graham groaned. "Fine, just stay out of the way."
The men nodded in agreement. Still smiling Regina climbed on. The men followed her. The bus was reinforced so no infected could get on and very spacious inside. Regina and the other scientist took seats in the back.
Graham took a seat in the front. The bus door closed and they started moving, headed out of the safe zone. Regina felt a mix of emotions but the main one that she could identify is relief. Relief that she was going to get Emma. Relief that she was going to have Emma.m back.
"Emma, I'm coming to save you." She whispered softly.
Regina leaned up against the door, Emma had stopped trying to escape and so had Regina's tears but she was too tired to get up so there she stayed, knees brought up to her chest, arm rested on her knees and her face hidden away. She had lost track of how long she had sat there. She did not move until she felt a small hand on her hand. She jumped and her head shot up. She was met with her son's small worried face. His cheeks were streaked with dried tears. His bottom lip trembled and he looked like he was going to cry again. Regina put her legs down and folded them in front of them and opened her arms for him to hug her. He did not hesitate before climbing into her arms. She held him on her lap and rocked him from side to side gently. They've both had quite a day and she understood his distress. She sat with him like that until he calmed down. He was falling asleep right there in her arms and she was okah wiyynthat. As long as her baby boy felt safe..
They just sat there in silence and calm was coming over them but a loud sound caused her to jump and Henry opened with a whimper. She apologized and kissed his forehead. She helped him up and she got up as well. She then headed for the stairs and Henry followed her. They reached the bottom and headed for the door. She peaked through the wood and could see a humvee parked outside her house. A group of men dressed in all black tactical gear were shooting the infected running towards them. They had put down most of her neighbors and the street was quiet.
She watched as one of the men opened the gate and walked down the path. Curious, Regina watched him as he walked up her porch steps and up to the door. He knocked on the door and waited. Regina moved to the door and pushed Henry back.
"Yes?" She said back.
"Hello! I am here on behalf of Gold Industries." He answered.
"Okay, and?"
"Is Doctor Regina Swan-Mills there?"
"What do you want?"
"We have a safe compound and we are trying to recruit the greatest minds in the country to try and find a cure for this thing."
"You're already set up?" Regina asked. She found that strange since the outbreak had only happened a few hours ago.
"Mr. Gold has been prepared for something like this for a long time." He said. "I think you can stop this virus. Give us a chance. We have clean water, fresh food and clean clothes. You will be safe."
Regina thought about it. She looked back at the stairs. She promised Emma she would cure her. This is her chance. She unlocked the door and Henry came to join her as she opened it. The man smiled at her. "Hi," he said, "I'm Graham."
"I'm Regina and this is Henry." Regina said, taking the child's hand.
"Hi, Regina and Henry. It's a pleasure."
He said with a smile. He then read something on a tablet. "I have three here. Two adults and a child."
Regina looked down at Henry and he looked up at her. She then looked up at Graham and shook her head. "She didn't make it."
He frowned. "I'm sorry."
They were quiet for a moment and then Regina said, "we will come with you."
Graham looked relieved. "Perfect. Let's get you in the safe zone."
Regina nodded and she and Henry stepped out of the house. She looked around and didn't see any infected so she shut the door behind her and followed Graham to the vehicle. The other men dipped their heads to her. Regina said nothing and climbed in. She and Henry took a seat near the front. Graham took the seat across from.them. The rest of the men piled in. Regina looked at Graham and he gave her a reassuring nod. She felt that she could trust him and she hoped she was right.
The bus began to pull off and Regina looked up at the window. There she saw Emma standing there, looking down at her and with a hand on the glass. She looked so peaceful then. She thought about how she would come back for her soon. She will make this right.
She watched Emma until she couldn't see her anymore. That was when she turned around and looked at Graham, "I want to replace my third."
Graham looked up at her confused. "With who?
"My sister." Regina answered.
Graham nodded his head. "You got it."
It's funny how things come full circle. As they drove into Storybrooke Maine Regina thought about how she had left this place with absolutely no hope. Now, here she was returning with hope and a way to save the woman she loves. The streets were mostly empty from where Graham and his team came and cleaned up. He probably wishes he didn't because now that they know they can be saved.
Most of the bodies had decayed or had been eaten by animals. The town has been left the way it was. Shattered windows, burnt cars, blood staining the buildings and grounds. She remembered how beautiful this town used to be and it upset her seeing it in the state.
They drove on and passed the crashed cruisers. The remnants of the sheriff deputy trying to get the outbreak under control. sadly they failed. Regina, Henry and her sister were the only ones that escaped as far as she knew.
"Nice town." One of the officers said, staring out the window. "I always wanted to live somewhere like this but I was always drawn to the city."
Regina hummed in reply. Regina and Emma lived in the city but when they decided to have a child they moved back to Regina's old town. They love their life there.
Riding through the town brought back so many memories. Granny's diner where she and had dinner with her family very often, the park where she and Emma would take Henry. The pier where Regina and Emma would go to hang out. The Swan-Mills family who had left their prints in this town never thought this town would ever not feel like home but right now, this was a deserted wasteland. Storybrooke was gone and it was now nothing but a tomb. Everything that used to be now left as rot and ruin.
"Hey," Regina tore her gaze from the window and turned her head to find one of the guards turned sideways so he could look at her.
"Yes?" Regina asked, trying to be polite but she had so much on her mind. She was feeling anxious as well. She had no idea what she was going to find when she arrived at her house.
"What kinda doctor are you?" He asked.
"Virologist." She answered.
"Interesting. You specialise in viruses?"
Regina nodded, "Yep."
"That's cool. I was a medic." He said. "But they have doctors. So I decided to help another way."
"Well you all are wonderful at what you do." She assured him. "But if you want to come work in the infirmary or lab, you're more than welcome."
He smiled at her then and she returned it. She could tell he had more to say but the bus came to a stop. Regina's eyes widened, her heart skipping a beat. She turned and looked out of the window and saw that they were on her street, right in front of her house. She looked up at the large daunting structure that had served as a cage for her wife for three years. She left all of her behind there and she wasn't sure if she was ready to see it again but she had no choice. She had to do this.
"Alright, attention." Graham said, getting to his feet. He stood in the middle of the aisle. When everyone gave him their attention, he continued. "The mission is simple. We get the doctor into the house, we retrieve the asset, get the doctors back in the vehicle, then we head home."
The men nodded and grumbled their understanding. The man nodded. "Alright let's move out."
Regina stood up and smoothed down her clothes. She was nervous to see Emma but it wasn't like Emma would recognize her anyway but still. She started heading down the aisle but Whale spoke up.
"We will just hang here if that's okay?"he said awkwardly.
Regina smiled at him. She understood his trepidation. "Alright. We will be back soon."
The men nodded then Regina turned around and started heading down the aisle. Claude had been waiting for her and joined her when she passed him. The two of them were the last off the bus. Graham's team was just standing around.
"I locked her in the bedroom." Regina said softly.
"Even better." Graham said with a grin. "Alright, let's head out."
The men walked ahead of her and Claude walked behind her. They walked up to the house and through the gate. As they traveled up the path, she noticed how her lawn had grown out of control and it saddened her how most of her plants had succumbed to weeds. To think she had loved this home so much and now it wasn't a home anymore. Graham and the men headed up the porch steps. She watched them as they stopped and Graham looked back at her. She peeked around him and saw the door left slightly ajar.
She looked at the man and shook her head. She locked the door.
"Probably scavengers." Claude said from behind her. "No cause for alarm. We can handle them."
Regina nodded and turned her head. Graham motioned for her to watch him. She nodded in reply. He nodded in reply then hit the door hard with his shoulder, causing it to swing open and hit the wall. The men rushed inside, weapons drawn. She followed hesitantly and when she stopped inside, her heart sank.
Her house was in shambles, their items tossed around, pictures torn from the wall but what was the most disturbing was the dead bodies lying on the ground. Some of them were torn apart, some eaten. Blood was everywhere. So much blood. Fear came over her and she felt sick.
"Oh my god." She breathed, placing a hand on stomach.
"Yeah, this is brutal." Graham agreed. "Let's get the asset so we can get the fuck out of here."
Regina nodded and headed to the stairs. She had to step over bodies. Cluad started following her and Graham motioned two two other men to come up with them. He told the other two to stay put.
The five of them started heading upstairs, led by Regina. She noticed that the banister was coated in a combination of dried blood and dust. What the hell happened here.
"This is a beautiful house." Said one of the men behind Graham.
None of them replied and they reached the second floor. There was more blood up there as well. She headed down the hall to her bedroom but stopped. The bedroom door was wide open and from there she could see that Emma was gone.
"Fuck!" Regina screamed.
"Some dumbass let her out." Said Graham. "Regina, where would she go?"
Their research has shown them that the infected often go to places that are familiar. "Um, the sheriff station or the diner on Main Street.
Graham nodded and turned to his men. "We go look for the asset and--"
Shouts caused them to stop. It was coming from downstairs. Maybe the remaining infected found their way to the house. Without second thought they ran down the stairs. What they found shocked them.
"Emma?" She breathed.
Her wife was dressed in the same thing she left her in, tanktop and jeans but she was filthy, covered in blood and bruised. Her gorgeous blonde hair was dull and matted. She was currently attacking the other two men. She tossed one across the room.
"That her?" Graham asked.
Regina nodded. "Yes, that's my wife."
"Call her." He instructed.
Regina didn't hesitate. She didn't want Emma to get hurt so she did what she was told. "Emma!"
Emma had one of the men on the ground and she was banging him with her fist and she roared and growled. She stopped at the sound of her name, looked up and turned to them. She jumped to her feet and stayed crouched low. Emma eyed her a moment and Regina thought she recognized her but that was not it at all. She screamed and started running at them.
Graham pulled his gun off his holster and fired two tranquilizers into her. She stopped and looked at them with a furrowed brow. She then fell back and collapsed, completely unconscious.
Graham patted Regina on the shoulder then headed down the stairs. "Let's get her suited up."
The other men went to the black case and pulled out a human muzzle and a straight jacket. That way, they could contain her. They put it on her then two men went to get the stretcher from the back. When he returned, they loaded her on it. They handled her with care, out of respect for Regina. She looked at Emma, unconscious on the stretcher. Blood was smeared all around her mouth. She was filthy and so thin now.
Regina exhaled softly. She couldn't wait to clean her up because it broke her heart seeing her love this way. The men took the stretcher out and loaded it in the back compartment.
She was so relieved to have Emma with her. Now, she needed to work on bringing her back. She was ready….
When they arrived, Emma decided to wake up. She couldn't do much since she was restrained but the noises she was making as Graham rolled her stretcher into the lab was bugging her. She sounded so distressed and it stressed Regina out. The two men were following but they hung back. Understandable, if it had been anyone else, Regina would have been scared too but this was Emma. She looked down at the woman who was struggling and whining.
"It's okay, Emma." Regina soothed. "You're safe."
The infected that was once her wife, looked at her and started whining and snarling.
When they arrived at the lab, Regina opened the door for Graham and held it. He stopped next to the examination table. Emma was even more upset, frightened being in a new place. She started thrashing, growling and snarling. She was much stronger than she remembered.
"Want me to hold her?" Graham asked.
Regina nodded, "Yes. Give me a moment."
She ran over to the metal cabinet, used her keys to open it. She pulled out a vile then went over and grabbed a needle. She came back to the table.
"Hold her."
Graham nodded. He leaned over and put his hands on her shoulders, holding her still. Emma started squirming even more but all she needed was for her top half to be still. She filled the needle then leaned over and pushed some of Emma's hair away from her neck. She pushed into her back and injected her. Emma cried out. Regina extracted the needle then moved back.
"You can let go." Regina told Graham.
The man nodded and released, stepping back. "You tranquilized her again?"
Regina shook her head. "Sedated."
He nodded, "Ah. Well, that's good."
Regina hummed in agreement. "Now, let's get to work before she comes to."
Graham undid the fastens on the straps holding Emma to the stretcher. He looked at the two male doctors. "Help me lift her."
The men looked unsure. They would come nowhere near her. Then they looked at Regina then it was clear that their emotions set in. Both of them stepped forward to help him. They took each of her legs, lifted her then placed her on the hospital bed.
"Hold her up." Regina said.
Graham immediately leapt into action. Holding Emma up just a bit. Regina room that time to undo her straight jacket. She then tossed it on the ground. Next came the muzzle. Graham then laid her back down. Once she was laid down, Regina walked over to the drawer and opened it, producing a tiny remote. She pressed a button on it. Then three straps came up and connected at a buckle, restraining Emma yet again.
This felt a bit more humane. Regina then turned back to the cabinet and pulled out the vaccine and then she went and grabbed another needle and some alcohol wipes. As a last thought, she grabbed a bandaid before walking back to the bed, vaccine in hand. She rounded it and stood on the side of Emma. Studying the woman lying on the hospital bed covered in blood and dirt, Regina realised that she was still completely in love with her. She needed to keep her promise and save her. She looked up at Graham and the other two doctors who nodded in encouragement. That was all she needed so she. She cleaned the bend of Emma's arm and it took three alcohol wipes to clean her. Regina then filled it with the vaccine then brought the needle to the bend of Emma's arm and injected it directly into the vein.
She exhales then hoping this will work and give her her wife back and her son his mother back. Now it was just a waiting game. She needed to do one more thing. She walked away and gathered some supplies. She returned with what she needed to start an IV. Emma was so thin and clearly Malnourished. She carefully and gently set Emma up.
Regina stared at Emma for a moment. It's been so long since she's seen her in person. There has just been so much uncertainty. She didn't know if Emma was alive or if she could cure her. she didn't know if their family will ever be the same or if she would ever heal. At least two of the questions were answered. Emma is alive and she was sure she could cure her. She was just so relieved to see her and she wished she could kiss her.
"Doctor?" Graham said, pulling her out of her thoughts.
She looked at him. "Hmm?"
"We should put her in containment." He suggested.
"Oh…" Regina breathed. "Yeah sure."
Graham nodded and grabbed the handle of the bed and started wheeling her to the room that Michael Tillman had once occupied. Whale punched in the code and opened the door. Graham wheeled him inside. They placed God in the middle of the room then walked out. Regina stood in front of the glass and watched Emma. Jekyll came to stand beside her and so did Whale.
Graham joined them as well. They stood there for a while but then one by one everyone started leaving. Graham was the last to leave. He patted her on the shoulder and said, "Don't stay too long."
Regina nodded and the man excused himself. Regina stayed put. She hadn't seen her wife in three years so she planned to stay as long as she could. She wasn't going anywhere.
Xxx
She stayed with Emma as long as she could. The woman hadn't woken up. Lying there in the dimly lit room, her chest rising and falling slowly, she looked so peaceful. She almost felt like her Emma but she knew better. It will take a while to take effect. It would be days or weeks until she saw her Emma again. She looked down at her watch and checked the time. She was late again. She couldn't stay with Emma tonight since she had to show her face at home so Zelena and Henry would know she was okay. Besides, Emma would likely sleep all night. Regina will return tomorrow.
She took off her lab coat and threw it down the chute. She then headed towards the door. With one more look at Emma, she turned the light off and headed out of the door and down the hall. She moved quickly so she wouldn't be any later than she already is. Stepping out of the building, she headed for the residential area. Although the area felt large, everything was within walking distance.
She strolled the streets, attention straight ahead. Eyes on the street ahead of her. Street Lamps illuminated the streets that were quiet and empty. Most of the residents are already turning in for the night. She understood that. Since she is exhausted. She had a long day.
As she came up to their home she noticed that one other lone light was on. That meant that they were turning in and she was going to miss Henry again. With a shake of her head, she headed up the steps to the porch. She pulled out her key but then the door flung open. There stood Zelena and Henry. They must have been waiting for a long time.
Henry crashed into her, hugging her ears and resting his forehead against her stomach. She bent a little and kissed his head.
"Eell, I'm glad you're here in one piece." Zelena said, folding her arms over her chest.
"Me too." Regina said with a smile.
She patted Henry's back and the little boy reluctantly let go and moved into the house. Regina stepped inside.
"How was it outside?" Henry asked as Regina shut the door behind her.
"Well," Regina began
She recapped her entire trip to her son and sister. By the end of the story Henry had gone off to bed and Regina headed to the kitchen. It was then that Zelena asked a question that she had clearly been holding in.
"How is Emma?"
Regina looked up from the door she was putting on her plate. She shrugged. "Fine. She's still infected though."
"Did you give her the vaccine?" Her sister questioned.
Regina nodded. "I did."
"How long will it take?" She asked.
Regina carried her food to the table and sat. Zelena joined her and watched her, waiting for an explanation. "I don't know. It worked for Michael Tillman because he didn't turn. It could take a long time for Emma."
"Well, at least she's here with you caring for her." Zelena offered.
Regina nodded her agreement. Now she could relax because Emma was here safe with her. "Yes. I can care for her."
Zelena looked worried. "Be careful though."
Regina smiled. "I always am."
Zelena smiled a little then but it fell away when she appeared to have remembered something. "What about Henry? Would you tell him?"
She wasn't sure about that. Now that she was making decisions all on her own, she had to make the best ones for their son. "When I start seeing results I'll tell him. There's no reason to get his hopes up and to open a wound if I'm wrong."
Zelena looked unconvinced. "You are right. You're the best at what you do. You will cure her and I will be able to bug my sister-in-law again in no time."
Regina chuckled thinking about the times Zelena used to tease Emma. Emma never had any family. She feels up in the foster system. She always wanted family and was so delighted when she found that in Regina's family. Her father welcomed Emma in as soon as Regina introduced them to her. She treated her like a daughter and Zelena treated her like a sister. Regina and Emma getting married solidified that bond. Regina's family will always be Emma's family.
"I hope so…" Regina muttered.
Zelena hummed. "Now what?"
Regina shrugged lightly. "Now, we wait."
All they could do was wait….
Xxx
Regina woke up the next morning, read Emma's letter and kissed it as she usually does and wished Emma a good morning. She could do that now but this morning ritual was more for the Emma that she used to know. Her wife had been on her mind all night and it took everything in her to not climb out of bed and head to the lab to check on her. She knew that Emma was safe here, so she forced her to sleep. After tossing and turning for a while, she finally went to sleep, that was two hours ago. Her alarm went off a few moments ago and usually she would hang out in bed for a while when she was tired like this but today she couldn't. She had to get up and check on Emma.
She rolled out of bed and went to wake up Henry, once she heard him walking up, she headed back to her bathroom to shower. She took her time getting ready. Once she finished, she headed downstairs to where she found her son dressed eating at the table with Zelena.
Her sister made breakfast so she sat with them and enjoyed breakfast. When they finished it was time to leave so they got ready and left the house. They went their separate ways since Zelena took Henry to school because she worked there and Regina went to the lab.
Regina hurried to the lab. She greeted neighbors on her way but did not stop until she got to the building. She walked inside.l and as soon as she entered she heard screaming and wailing. She raced inside and ran in the laboratory. She turned the light on and walked to the viewing window to look at Enma.
The woman was still on the bed thrashing and struggling. The sight saddened her. "Emma, it's okay." She said, "Just a moment."
She ran over, grabbed an IV bag and then went and washed her hands before putting on her gloves. She then went inside the room. She hoped she would be able to clean Emma up soon because she smelled badly and was filthy. She walked over to the bed where she was and looked at her.
"Goodmorning, my love."
Emma stopped squirming for a moment and watched her with a furrow of her brow. It was like she understood her and felt the affection. Regina had hope and she reached out a hand to stroke her cheek but Emma turned her head and snapped at her. Regina moved her hand fast enough, her heart stuttered. That was so close. She couldn't make that mistake again.
"Alright." Regina muttered. She quietly changed the IV as Emma calmly watched her. When she finished she said, "sweetheart, this is good for you. You will stay connected until you are well. When you are healthy I will free you. I'm doing this because I love you."
Emma growled low but didn't move. She just stared. Regina stared back and stood there a moment. She hoped to make progress soon but she understood that it would take time. Emma seemed so calm though. Regina was so tempted to touch her but she didn't.
"Emma, I--" she began but then she heard the door to the lab open. She looked up to find Whale and Jeckyl walking in talking.
She felt Emma tense and begin to growl. She looked down at her and smiled. "It's okay. Don't worry."
The men stopped at the window and waved at her. She waved back. Whale motioned for her to come out there. She nodded her head. She looked down at Emma and smiled then started leaving the room. She heard grunting and whining behind her, clearly Emna was afraid and there was no way to assure her. So, she just left and joined the other doctors.
"Morning." Whale greeted.
"Morning." Regina said.
"How long have you been here?" Jeckyl asked.
Regina turned to watch Emma, folding her arms over her chest. "Not long. I arrived a little before you."
"Wanted to check her IV." Regina said. "And draw blood."
The men looked surprised. "She let you?" Whale asked.
Regina nodded and shrugged softly, her gaze stayed on Emma in the room, who was panicking. "Yeah."
The men stared at her a moment longer than Jeckyl spoke. "Any change?"
"She's a little calmer today." Regina answered. "I know this sounds crazy but she looked at me like she recognized me."
"That could be progress." Whale replied. "I don't think it's crazy at all."
Regina nodded her head but didn't say anything.
"Well, let's test that blood and see what's going on." Doctor Whale offered.
Regina nodded again. The men stepped away from the observation window. She watched Emma a moment longer before stepping away and going to follow them.
She followed them over to the microscopes and they set everything up. Regina looked back at Emma and saw her looking around.
Jekyll looked through the microscope first. He stayed there a moment and jotted something down. Regina wondered what he saw. He looked at them and smiled. "You gotta see this."
Whale didn't waste any time and sat at the microscope. Regina looked at Jekyll. "What is it?"
"The vaccine is attacking the virus." Jekyll said. "It's working."
Regina looked at him with wide eyes and then she let out a sigh of relief. That was promising. She was so pleased. She will have Emma back, after all. "Oh, thank goodness." She sighed and placed a hand on her chest. "I'm so grateful."
The man smiled and patted her on the shoulder. "I share your joy. I would like to meet her."
"Oh you will love her." Regina's heart felt so full and she was so excited. She would get the woman she loved back sooner than she expected.
Whale looked up and waved.her over. "Check this out. Come check out the vaccine and your wife's immune system kicking the virus'ass to hell.'
Regina moved over, eager to see what they saw. She sat on the stool and leaned into the microscope. she never thought she would be looking at her wife's blood through a microscope but now here she was. Well, let's say she hoped she wouldn't but this is the hand they've been dealt so they have to play it and hope for the best.
She studied the sample and stayed quiet for a moment, focusing. Her heart was filled with joy when she saw it. She knew everything would be okay. She looked up at her teammates. "We did it."
Whale and Jeckyll smiled proudly. The men appeared as happy as she was that she was beginning to cure her wife.
She was so excited to watch her wife come back to her…
It was only three days when they first saw progress but it felt like three weeks. It happened in the form of Emma being peaceful and calm with Regina when she came in to change her IV bag and to draw blood for testing. She watched Regina, allowed her to stroke her cheek and whisper to her.
"I love you with all my whole heart and soul, my love." Regina whispered. "I hope you are feeling better. It seems like you are."
Emma merely stared up at her and her eyes appeared less dilated. She took the light out of her breath pocket and shined into the woman's eyes. Her pupils responded, showing more progress. Something caught her eyes and she glanced down to find Emma's fingers moving as if feeling for something. Regina removed her glove and took a chance, she placed her hand over Emma's and held her hand. Emma flinched at the touch at first then relaxed into as if this felt familiar and safe to her. She examined Emma's hand for a moment and then she spotted the gold wedding band. She looked into Emma's face.
"You kept it." She breathed. Emma looked at her with a furrow of her brow. "Your wedding band."' Regina smiled a little. "We're married. We met when we were eighteen and I fell for you right then. It was so funny. This guy was harassing me in a coffee shop and you walked up to me and handed me a latte. The same latte I always ordered then you sat down and started talking to me like we knew each other. It scared the guy off."
"That guy was an asshole I could tell. By his body language. " The blonde woman said, her green eyes wide, her actions awkward and nervous.
"Yeah, he was a creep. Had to be three times my age." Regina replied. "So gross."
She huckled. "Yeah so I had to step on and scare him off."
Regain really did appreciate her swooping in to save her even though she can handle herself. "My hero."
The woman chuckled. "Anytime. Enjoy your coffee, it's on lme
Regina smiled and Emma turned to walk away. Regina looked down at the coffee and inhaled the scent. It was the exact coffee she always orders. She looked up and watched Emma retreating. "Hey, wait."
The blonde woman turned around with a furrow of her brow. "Yeah?"
"Thank you." Regina said with a giggle. "How do you know what I like?"
The woman turned around and smiled. "My friend Emily works here. She memorized your order because she thinks you're cute and really hot." The woman said honestly.
Regina smirked a little at that. Regina had chosen to go to school in NYC so she could proudly wear her pride flag. It's not like the people in Storybrooke are homophobic, they just dont understand and they dont try to. Besides, there are hardly any women who are attracted to women in that town. New York was best bet and she made the right decision judging by this woman talking to her.
"Oh?" Regina purred, something she found that worked on anyone and judging by the way this woman blushed it works.
She took a moment to take her in in those skin tight denim shorts and white tank top. Her biceps were impressive and Regina could tell that she was into fitness. She stood there awkwardly shifting from foot to foot. "Yeah. I've been trying to get the courage to talk to you and this was as good a time as any."
"Sit." Regina instructed, pointing to the details across from her. Emma obediently sat. "Why did you want to talk to me?"
Emma whistled and rubbed a hand over her face. "You're gorgeous for one thing."
Regina smiled. "You're gorgeous as well." She said and the woman's fair cheeks colored a bright red. "What's your name?"
"Emma." The woman said quickly. "What's yours?"
Regina reached across the table and offered her hand. "Regina. It's nice to meet you Emma."
Emma smiled as she shook her hand. "And it's nice to meet you, Regina."
"We've been inseparable since the day we met. I've never had a best friend like you and I know I will never have another." Regina smiled sadly. "You deserve to be well and happy. You are a warm, caring, fearless person and you deserve the world. Not what happened to you. We are making this right."
Emma just watched her, her eyes beginning to look like the beautiful eyes she adored. She didn't know how much the infected could understand but she just hoped Emma understood how much she loved her.
When Regina finished she had to go run some tests. As Regina took her leave she could feel Emma's eyes following her until she was out the door. She stopped at the observation window and found Emna staring at her. A sad look in her eyes. Regina pressed her hand on the window then forced herself to leave. Because if she didn't, she never would have left.
Two days came and went before there was any more progress. Their studies have come to the conclusion that Emma was attached to her and would only allow her to do things to her. When anyone else would attempt, Emma would whine and try to move away. She was no longer aggressive though. From their blood tests they could tell that the vaccine was curing her and the virus was dissipating from her blood. That was the best news she ever could have gotten. Watching Ennma get better was the highlight of her day.
One day five, Regina wanted to try something so she came to the room with a bucket of warm water and a sponge. She would try to clean Emma up just a bit.
"Good morning, sweetheart." Regina said with a smile.
Emma's 6zhp grew wide with something like excitement. She started vocalizing. It sounded like words and Regina wondered about her brain activity. She would order a scan but she doesn't want to aggravate her so she would just do a scan when she's better.
"You are doing so well, Emma." Regina praised. "I think you are ready for food."
Emma was just watching her, her expressions changing telling Regina that she understood her. Which was good news. Regina sat the bucket on the side of the bed.
"I'm going to wash you up, okay?"
Emma looked confused but did not react negatively so Regina continued. She picked up the sponge and squeezed it to release the excess warm water. She then slowly brought it to Emma's face so as to not startle her. She watched her and Regina stopped a few inches from her face, checking to see if she would attack but she didn't. Instead, Emma shut her eyes and waited.
Regina took that as the go-ahead and started on her forehead. Carefully and gently moving the sponge across her skin, scrubbing her clean. She brought the sponge down to her cheek and wiped there until she was clean. The sponge was filthy so she dipped it in the water to rinse. She then started on Emma's other cheek. Unlike before when she tried to bite her, Emma relaxed into it. In this peaceful moment, this felt like her wife. She knew she had her back then..
"Your brain has almost healed." Regina said gently. "I know you did not have control over your actions and I'm so glad to have you back. I've been so lonely and I know you were too. Our studies have shown that the infected have memories so that means that you've missed me and Henry. We're all together now and we will never be apart again. I swear it."
Emma's eyes had opened and she was watching her. She turned her head and she thought she was going to bite her so she went to jerk her hand away but then she realized that Emma was merely trying to press her cheek to her hand. Regina pressed her free hand to Emma's cheek. The woman then closed her eyes with a soft sigh. "My love…" Regina whispered. "I love you so much."
They stayed that way for a while. Emma relaxed under Regina's touch. Regina's heart felt so full and she was so at peace to have Emma pack even partially. She wished she could kiss her but she was still contagious. Instead she would just dream and fantasize about the day she would be able to feel Emma's lips on hers again. It took her a moment to realize that Emma had fallen asleep.
Regina smiled a little at that then went back to cleaning her up. She cleaned her neck and then her hands. By the time she finished, the sponge looked more like charcoal and the water was a dark gray from the dirt and blood she had cleaned from her son's mother. She frowned and she felt so devastated that Emma had been living in these conditions for so long. Hungry, dirty and full of anger brought on by a virus. At least they're closer to getting it out of her system.
She punched in the code and opened the door. Before leaving she took one last look at the sleeping woman. Then she headed to dumb the water and dispose of the sponge before cleaning up. She will be back before she even wakes up.
Regina had stayed with Emma overnight, sleeping in a cot that she had dragged in from the infirmary. It seemed that Emma was calmer when she could see her. Regina felt safer near Emma so they both got a goodnight's sleep. In the morning when Whale and Jekyll helped her drag the cot back while she went to shower. Sadly she had to put on her clothes from the day before because she hadn't planned for their little sleepover. Either way, it was something that she needed to do.
Today was the day they were starting Emma on food. Whale had brought fruits and vegetables from the greenhouse so they were going to give her that. That was a good start since Emma had been eating human flesh and garbage for three years. The thought of that still gave her the creeps. But her love for Emma would not allow her to fear her.
When she returned to the lab Whale and Jekyll were standing in front of the glass. She joined them and watched Emma as she woke up. When she looked at them, Regina waved and Emma smiled softly.
Smiled! She smiled!
Regina gasped and her hand flew to her mouth. The men beside her were stunned silent as well. Regina kept her eyes on Emma. That was major progress.
"Did she?" Whale began.
"She did." Jekyll replied. "That was a big jump from yesterday?"
"Accelerated healing." Regina mumbled. "All she needed was a boost. Her body is doing the rest."
"But how?" Whale asked..
Regina shrugged. "I don't know. Could be genetic, hereditary or even just her body."
"Can you draw blood please?" Jekyll asked, handing her the equipment.
Regina nodded and walked back to the sink to wash her hands. She grabbed some gloves and bandaids then returned to them. "Is the food ready?"
Whale handed her a tray. She looked at the slices of banana and carrots. She frowned. They could have made her first meal a bit better but she will make it up to her.
She walked over to the door and let herself in the room. Emma looked at her and smiled again. Regina brought the tray over but Regina placed it down on the stool. Then she turned to Emma.
"Goodmorning, my love." Regina greeted. Emma was quiet and simply observed. "Today we are going to get you up and moving."
Emma's eyes widened and it was clear that she was excited which made Regina excited as well. She moved clear and set about removing Emma's IV then drawing the blood she needed. She then put everything in a hazard waste bag. She then pulled the remote out of her pocket and pressed the release button. There was a click and the restraints started removing themselves from Emma until they disappeared into the side of the bed.
"Um, Regina," Whale's voice came through the speaker. "Get the fuck out of there."
Regina nodded but then Emma sat up. They were mere inches away. She looked up onto Emma's eyes and they were gentle as usual. That was her Emma and she wasn't scared.
Regina stepped away and went to get the tray but then she heard Whale and Jekyll calling to her. She turned around and there she found Emma there, standing behind her. Her heart stopped and her body froze under her intense gaze. She didn't know what was going to happen. She waited and a long moment passed and then Emma smiled.
"I'm calling security." Jekyll announced.
"No, dont!" Regina cried.
Emma moved closer, still holding her gaze. Then she reached up and braked her fingers against Regina's cheek. Emma looked so pleased at the touch, she whispered slowly and raspy, "Regina…"
Regina's eyes widened and she heard the other two freaking out at Emma speaking. "Emma…"
"Love." Emma said quietly as if she were remembering something. "Regina. Always loved Regina."
Regina reached a hand up and wrapped around Emma's hand and looked into her eyes. "And I will always love you."
Emma smiled and she looked ecstatic. Regina beamed at her too.
"Emma, we bought you some food. Will you eat something for me?" Regina asked..
Emma nodded. She reached behind Regina and grabbed the plate. She then sat on the stool. Regina stopped back a bit so she could observe. Emma picked up a piece of banana and put it in her mouth. She began to chew slowly, savoring it before picking up another piece. The scientist watched Emma eat, carefully and in a human manner. That she was just about cured.
When the blonde woman finished her plate then held it up to Regina and asked for more.
The scientists laughed happily and gave her whatever she pleased. They were delighted that they had cured an infected and Regina was just happy to have her wife back.
It took three more weeks and many many more tests before the scientists had declared Emma Swan-Mills cured of the virus. During this time Emma had gained back most of her mental capacity as regards to thinking, speech, reasoning and much more. Upon testing the team that Emma was much more advanced than before infection. Her brain had been in a sort of hibernation so when she gained full control it was fresh and rejuvenated. As a virologist Regina was impressed.
She had helped Emma shower multiple times to help her get clean until Emma could do it herself. Now Regina just walked with Emma to the shower and stood outside. She was a bit disappointed that she was no longer invited to showers but she was glad she could do it herself.
Regina came to the lab bright and early as usual to see Emma. They haven't kissed yet or been physical and Regina was dying to. It's been three years.
When she walked in she found Emma in the containment chamber, sitting in the bed, staring at her.
"Goodmorning." Regina said happily.
Emma chuckled. "Morning, babe."
She loved seeing Emma like this, clean, healthy and self aware. She was so happy to have her back.
"How are you?" Regina asked, stopping at the glass and peering in at Emma.
"Fine. I just can't remember the last three years." Emma heaved a heavy sigh. "I know I did awful things, I just don't know what."
Regina shrugged slightly. "Maybe you don't remember because it wasn't you."
"I want to know. I feel bad that I don't."
Regina really didn't want Emma to know but that wasn't her decision to make. She nodded. "I don't know what you did, Emma. I'm sorry, I wasn't there."
"Did I try to hurt you and Henry?" Emma's voice was raw, like she was going to cry.
"Emma…"
"Did I?" Emma pressed. "Please tell me."
Regina had been avoiding this conversation for a long time but she couldn't run anymore. "Yes. But it was my fault. You locked me out but I was in denial so I opened the door and you saw me. It was reckless of me. We both could have gotten hurt."
Emma shook her head. "I dont give a fuck about me." She said softly. "I almost hurt you."
"But you didn't." Regina said as she walked to the door and punched in the code and wiped her care. She pulled the door open and went inside. "I knew you were sick. You were not responsible for what you did."
Emma buried her face in her hands. "I'm so sorry."
Regina could hear Emma's sobs and her shoulders shook uncontrollably..Regina rushed over her and hugged her. Regina began to sob too. She couldn't imagine what she had gone through all alone in that house. They cried for so long as the last few years poured out of their souls and hearts. They needed this, this is cleansing. Will it fix everything and the trauma they've gone through. Hell no but this was good for now.
They cried until they were all cried out. They still held each other though. The embrace is comforting. Regina pulled back first and looked Emma in the eyes. She was lost in that heavenly shade of green before she knew what she was doing. She was leaning in. Emma was leaning in as well. The.were inches away when the lab door swung open. They jumped apart..
"So, Regina, Emma, we have good news." Whale said happily.
"Okay," Emma replied. "What is it?"
"All your tests are clear, you're completely rid of the virus." He answered. "And you've been clean for two weeks. It's gone and not coming back."
Regina looked at Emma, "I don't see why not."
"We will want to monitor you regularly." Jekyll added.
Regina nodded her agreement. "Sounds good enough."
"So, I get to leave now?" Emma asks hopefully.
"Yep. Regina pushed through all your paperwork a week ago but you just had to be cleared one last time. We have all discharged you. You're free to go." Whale said..
Regina was so excited and so was Emma. Her eyes were wide and she was just about ready to bounce out the seat. She jumped down from the bed and ran to the door.
"Emma…" Regina said. "It's winter out. You've been here two months."
Emma looked down at her lan issued suit that featured sweatpants and a sweatshirt and flat shoes. Not appropriate for the weather. "Oh…"
"Do you want me to go get you something?" Regina asked. "Something warmer?"
"Nope." Emma said. "I've had enough of being in this room. I can make it."
Regina looked unsure. "Emma, are you sure?"
"Positive." She wandered. "Do we live far?"
"No but-"
"Then let's go. I wanna go."
Regina nodded her head. Well, she wanted her home too. They can warm her up when they get home.
She unlocked the door and Regina held it open for her. Emma stepped out and stopped for a second ro say goodbye to Whale and Jekyll. The men wished her good luck and told her how glad they were that she was okay now. Emma thanked them again then sprinted for the door.
Regina gave her friends a smile and followed Emma out of the lab.
After saying goodbye to all the staff,Regina showed Emma to the exit. It was a sunny day despite the weather and Emma walked out in the middle of the yard and opened her arms wide. She inhaled a big breath then coughed on the exhale. That made Regina laugh and Emma looked back at her with a smile. She extended her to Regina and Regina latched onto it right away..
They then set off for the residential area. They walked slowly so Emma could take everything in since she was scooped up for so long. Regina waved at her neighbors. They looked at Emma curiously. Regina felt she would do introductions later.
"Do you think Henry will recognize me?" Emma asked.
Regina hadn't told Henry about Emma and she hadn't told Emma that Henry had been trying to forget her. She figured that when they saw each other everything would be okay. "I'm sure he does."
Emma nosed her head and kept walking. "Nice neighborhood."
Regina hummed in agreement. "You should see our house."
Emma looked at her and smiled. "Yeah?"
Regina chuckled and nodded. "You will love it."
At least it will finally feel like a home.
They turned onto their street and passed a couple houses before they got to theirs. Emma stood out front and stared in awe. "Oh shit. That's big."
"Bigger than our first apartment." Regina laughed.
Emma grinned. "That's for sure. We've come a long way."
Regina smiled, "That we have. And we will only go further"
"That's for sure." Emma told her.
Regina smirked at her then started leading her up the path to the house. Regina decided to ring the doorbell. That would be an even bigger surprise.
A moment passed before the door was pulled open. There stood Henry in his superhero pajamas. On the weekends it took him hours to change out of his pajamas and into real clothes. It was still pretty early.
Regina stepped aside, revealing Emma.. the little boy furrowed his brow at first and Regina feared he had really forgotten Emma. That feeling lasted for only a moment because then his face lit up.
"Mom!" He cried. Then he ran down the stairs in his socks. Emma got down so he could hug her.
The little boy crashed into her and hugged her around the neck. He held onto her for dear life almost like if he let go she would go away again. He hid his face in the crook of her neck and Regina could hear the sniffles of her son crying.
She had been waiting so long for this moment, seeing her son so emotional she teared up. Emma was crying too. This moment would stick with them forever.
Zelena was drawn outside by the commotion so she came to see. Her hand flew to her mouth when she saw Emma.
"Emma…" she breathed.
"You look like you've seen a ghost." Emma joked.
Zelena smiled, "I have."
She looked at Regina, "You did it."
Regina nodded. "I did."
"Did what?" Henry asked, pulling away from his mother. He looked up at his other mother.
"Your mom cured me, kid." Emma said excitedly.
The little boy's eyes were wide and he smiled. "She did.?! Awesome!" He looked back at Regina. "So you can cure everyone?"
Regina nodded. "I'd like to think so."
Henry beamed at, clearly excited for a world where the zombie virus is irradiated. So did they.
"Alright let's do the ruin indoors." Zelena said. "It's freezing out here."
Emma laughed as she got to her feet. Henry took her hand and started leading her into their home. As Emma passed Zelena, she kissed her on the cheek. That made her laugh.
Regina followed her completel family into their home. She kissed Zelena on the other cheek. Her sister laughed as she shut the door.
It was a very emotional day. Emma had begun getting caught up with everyone and everything. She had dinner with everyone and they laughed and cried and laughed some more. It felt like even though she missed Emma and felt her world was incomplete without her, spending the day with her showed how much she had truly missed without her.
They spent the day with Henry and Zelena. They watched movies, played games and just talked. Seeing Emma's eyes light up and her gorgeous smile made Regina's heart squeeze. She was over the moon. Everything was as it should be and it just felt right.
After dinner they watched more movies until Henry was starting to nod off. Regina kept trying to get him to go to bed but he wanted to stay with Emma. Even though they told him Emma was going to be with them forever now, Henry still didn't want to go so they let him stay until he fell asleep in Emma's lap. That was when Regina and Emma wished Zelena good night and Emma picked Hendy up and started carrying him to bed. She laid him down and kissed him on the forehead. The little boy smiled in sleep and Emma just stood there, watching him.
Regina folded her arms across her chest and watched them with a smile. She knew that Emma shared a special bond with their son. They had been so close and they missed each other.
After a while Emma looked at her and smiled sheepishly. Regina smiled back and curled a finger at her. Emma smiled and started heading over to her. Regina flicked the light switch and Emma pulled the door behind her to crack it. She remembered how Henry liked his room door at night.
Emma stepped into her personal space and Regina looked into her eyes. The woman's gaze intensified causing Regina's breath to catch in her throat. Her heart was hammering in her chest as Emma took a step toward her and another. She took one back and her back hit the wall. Some things never changed. Emma often enjoyed backing her up against a wall.
Emma smirked as she leaned in and Regina tilted her chin upward. There was only a brief moment when Ema hesitated, her breath lightly ghosting Regina's lips.
"Kiss me…." Regina's lips.
Then just like that, Emma's lips were pressed to hers. Regina hummed delightedly when the woman's soft, warm, pink lips touched hers. The kiss was hot, heavy and rough. Years of passion and desire built up. Regina did not care about any of it or anything else. She was just happy.to be kissing Emma. She parted her lips and Emma's tongue slid in. Regina's hands came up and tangled in Emma's hair as Emma's hands explored her body, rubbing and groping. Regina was so wet wanted Emma right then and there but the kiss was enough. After three years, it was enough.
Emma pulled away first and Regina found herself following her lips for another kiss which she received. When they broke that one, Emma pressed her forehead to hers and they stared for a moment, just thinking and getting reacquainted with each other.
After a moment, Regina whispered. "Let's go to bed."
Emma nodded and smiled. "Fuck yeah."
Regina took Emma's hand and started leading her to the bedroom.
There they didn't get naked and start having sex. Instead they just laid there in bed in their underwear. They were cuddled like they always did. Regina pressed into Emma's side with her arms across her waist and her leg across her thigh. Her head was on her shoulder and Emma laid there reading the note she had left Regina.
"You kept this all this time?" Emma looked down at her.
Regina looked up confused. "Of course."
Emma chuckled and the sound was like music to Regina's ears. "I don't know. Three years. I'm surprised you didn't move on. That Graham guy is kinda hot and he has the hots for you."
Regina made a face. "Shut up."
Emma laughed as her face was illuminated by the moon light filtering on through the open window. "I'm sorry. I'm really grateful you didn't give up on me."
"I never will." And Regina meant that with her whole heart.
"You really love me, huh?" Emma asked with a playful grin.
Regina chuckled. "Of course I do."
Emma grinned. "Damn and I love you…."
Regina smiled and leaned up, pressing her lips to Emma's. It was a short but meaningful kiss then she pulled back and rested her head on Emma's Shoulder. They laid there in silence for a while.
Regina felt you only get one great love in your life and as she laid there with hers, she wondered what their future held. They had so much to discuss and Emma needed to readjust. Whatever that looked like, Regina was ready for it. She was so happy to have Emma back in life so they could continue their forever together.
Emma was right, Regina would never give up on her and she knew Emma would do the same. They were meant to be together and that meant that they had to do whatever it takes to do it.
Whatever they have next, they will tackle together…. As a family.