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Chapter Text

Second Chances

             Cold, biting winds blew through the forest. It shook the branches overhead, creating an eerie roar. Regina looked up at the gray skies as Roland whimpered in her arms. She held him closer, trying her best to keep him warm under her fur cloak. “It’s okay, baby,” she told him.

            “It’s scary, Mama,” he whined, clinging to her. “And I’m cold.”

            She swallowed, losing feeling in her nose as the temperatures continued to drop. “I know, sweetheart. But we need to find someplace safe and then I will build a fire.”

            “Will we find it soon?” he asked, looking up at her with wide and trusting brown eyes.

            “I hope so,” she told him, kissing his head. “You stay close to me, okay? I’ll keep you warm.”

            He snuggled closer to her, warming her as well. “Okay, Mama.”

            Regina continued to drudge through the woods, hoping to find an abandoned house or even a cave at this point. Anything to block out the chilled winds and create a place for her to build a fire. They could then wait out the storm the clouds overhead promised.

            Something landed on her head and then her nose. Regina blinked a few times before looking up, groaning. Snowflakes floated down, ready to coat the world in their cold and wet blanket. “Oh no,” she whispered.

            “Mama? Is something wrong?” Roland asked, concerned.

            “The storm arrived earlier than I thought,” she told him. “But don’t worry, sweetheart. We’re going to be fine.”

            He nodded, trusting her completely. She just hoped she hadn’t lied to him as he laid his head against her chest.

            The snow grew heavier and came down faster as she continued to walk. She tried to blink the flakes away from her eyes but they kept blurring her vision. Her hair started to curl and her cloak grew heavier as it got wetter. She shivered from the cold winds, worried she would freeze before she could save her son.

            She felt herself slow down and her movement grew stiff. An overwhelming feeling of exhaustion washed over her but she fought it, knowing if she fell asleep, neither she nor Roland would ever wake again. Regina was many things but she was not a quitter.

            “Mama, I’m sleepy,” Roland told her, looking like he was fighting to keep his eyes open.

            Panic filled her but she swallowed it down, wanting to keep her tone light. “Me too, sweetheart, but we need to stay awake. Why don’t you sing to keep us both awake?”

            “Okay, Mama,” he said. He began singing his favorite rhyme and his upbeat tone gave her an energy spurt to continue on.

            A few songs later, a figure emerged through the snow. For a moment, Regina wondered if it was Death, come to shepherd them to the next life. She then shook off that morbid thought, wondering if it was a trick of her tired mind. But the figure drew closer, revealing it was a person in a heavy cloak. Whoever it was carried something in their arms but she couldn’t make out what it was.

            In what felt like the blink of her eyes, the figure stood in front of her. They wore a dark clock lined with bear fur and had a black scarf covering the lower half of their face, revealing only crystal blue eyes. In their arms appeared to be a thick fur blanket, which they threw around Regina.

            Warmth seeped back into her body ad her mind didn’t feel as hazy. Though her throat felt scratchy, she rasped: “Thank you.”

            The figure reached up, lowering the scarf to reveal a mouth surrounded by blond scruff and a mustache. Regina now knew her savior was a man. A man who looked very concerned as he looked her over. “The storm is going to get even worse. You can stay with me. You’ll be out of the storm and warm. I have plenty of food and nice soft bed for you.”

            Before she could thank him again, Roland poked his head out to ask: “Can I sleep now, Mama?”

            “No!” The panicked response came from both Regina and their savior. He looked as concerned as her as his eyes met hers again.

            He held out his arms. “Let me carry him the rest of the way. I can keep him warmer.”

            She hesitated, looking down at her baby boy. While the man had saved them, he was still a stranger. Could she give over the most precious part of her life to someone she didn’t know?

            “I know you have no reason to trust me,” he said, “but I promise you no harm will come to him. And I will not leave your side the entire time.”

            He sounded sincere and Regina realized she had no choice but to trust him. Roland was growing heavier in her arms and she knew she would drop him if she continued, not having the strength the man had now. The stranger was also drier and in a warmer clock. He would warm her son far better than she could. It was his best chance.

            “Alright,” she said, shifting Roland so he could take him.

            The stranger held Roland close, wrapping his min his furs. He smiled down at Roland. “I’m going to holding you for your mum for now while we head back to my house. Why don’t you sing for us while we walk?”

            “I don’t know if I can,” Roland replied. “My throat hurts.”

            “How about I sing with you?” Regina suggested, stepping closer to her son and pressing her hand to his back.

            The stranger nodded. “We can all sing.”

            “Okay,” Roland said, starting to sing another rhyme. Regina and the stranger joined him as they started to move forward. Warmth and safety was not far away and Regina looked forward to getting some food and rest.

            Then she would figure out how to repay the stranger for his kindness.

            After all, she owed him both her life as well as Roland’s.

            “The stables are locked up tight to keep the horses warm and we believe all the dogs and cats have been rounded up and taken to warm places to wait out the storm,” his advisor John said, reading off a parchment. “And all the soldiers and servants are accounted for in their proper places.”

            Robin leaned forward on his throne, barely hearing the report. His mind was still on the beautiful brunette and young boy he had rescued from the storm. Upon their return to the palace, he had let one of his older maids whisk the two away to find them dry clothing as well as give them a good meal. He hadn’t seen them since.

            “Your Majesty?” John asked, looking at him with anticipation. He must’ve asked a question and was waiting for an answer.

            Robin sat up. “I’m sorry, what did you say?”

            “I just asked if you had anyone else you wanted me to check on?” he asked, giving Robin his perfect opportunity.

            “Yes, the woman and her son I brought in earlier,” he said. “How are they doing? Where are they?”

            John looked surprised but recovered quickly. “Maleficent took them to a guest room in the West Wing. We’ve found some spare clothing for them and she had a meal brought up for them from the kitchens.”

            “But they’re okay?” Robin asked, needing to be reassured of that.

            “Well, the Royal Physician hasn’t seen them but yes, they appear to be okay. Just fatigued from their journey,” John assured him.

            Relief spread through Robin and he leaned back against his throne. “Thank you. You are dismissed.”

            John bowed. “Goodnight, Your Majesty.”

            Once he was gone, Robin stood. He stepped down from the dais that held his throne and crossed the hall to the far door. It led to the West Wing, where the woman and her son were being held. Robin hesitated to open it, to go and check on them. After all, they were strangers. He didn’t even know their names.

            He didn’t even know why he rescued them.

            Robin had saw them from his study in the North Tower, though he just thought it was one figure struggling against the growing snowstorm. He had first dismissed the person as a fool and had tried to get back to work, making sure his people were safe from the storm. But his mind kept returning to that figure and his heart told him that he couldn’t leave the person out there. So he grabbed a warm blanket, bundled up and headed out before anyone could stop him. When he realized the figure was a woman and that she had a child, he knew he had made the right decision.

            Opening the door, Robin entered the West Wing. He headed down the main hallway, certain Maleficent would put them in one of the bedrooms not far from the throne room. It was easier to navigate the castle from there.

            After opening a few doors to find only empty rooms, Robin wondered if maybe she had put the two on a different floor. He just didn’t know if she put them lower to be closer to the staff or higher, where they would be closer to members of the court. Part of him decided it would be the former and was prepared to head downstairs as he checked one more room.

            He opened the door to find a fire crackling in the hearth and his heart started to pound. Robin had ordered his staff to not light fires in any unused rooms to conserve their resources during the storm, so he knew that someone was in this room. It didn’t necessarily mean that it was the one where Maleficent had put his guests but it was a good sign, he figured as he walked further into the room.

            The occupants were sound asleep in bed. He stopped as he studied mother and son as they lay curled together. She had a protective hand on his stomach, the little boy spread out in the big bed as she laid curled around him. Both looked very peaceful and he didn’t want to disturb them, so he started to back out of the room.

            As he did the woman roused, sitting up in bed with a start. She looked at him, eyes narrowed in suspicion. “What do you want?”

            He held up his hands, feeling like an intruder though it was his palace. “I was just checking on you, milady. I wanted to make sure you were fine after I rescued you from the snow.”

            “Oh,” she replied, relaxing. “I apologize. I didn’t recognize you without the oversized cloak and scarf.”

            “That was a look, wasn’t it?” He chuckled in response.

            She gave him a small smile. “Thank you again. I fear we both would’ve been lost had you not come to our rescue.”

            He glanced at the sleeping boy, who rolled closer to his mother. She ran her fingers through his curls as her smile and eyes softened. It warmed a part of Robin’s heart he had long thought dead.

            “I’m glad I spotted you two in time,” he replied softly. “You should get your rest. I’ll see you in the morning.”

            “Thank you,” she said, smiling at him now. “I promise to repay your kindness however I can.”

            He wanted to argue that she didn’t owe him anything but already figured that she was as stubborn as he, especially if she had made it so far in the snowstorm. If they started even a simple argument, he knew it could balloon into something more. And then they chanced waking the boy. It was best for him to just politely nod and excuse himself now so she could rest.

            But there was something she could help with now. “All I ask is that I know your names, please,” he said.

            She bit her lip, looking hesitant before nodding. “I’m Regina and this is Roland,” she said, motioning to her son.

            “It is very nice to meet you both,” he said, bowing slightly. “And now I will leave you to get some rest. Goodnight, Regina.”

            He started to walk toward the door when her voice stopped him. Robin slowly turned around and faced her again, noting how sheepish she looked. She tilted her head as she asked: “May I know the name of our savior?”

            “You may,” he said with a smile. Pressing his hand to his chest, he said: “I am Robin.”

            She smiled. “Then thank you, Robin. Roland and I owe you our lives.”

            Regina laid down again and Robin hung in the doorway, waiting until she was asleep again. He then crept from the room and closed the door behind him. With a sigh, he headed toward his own rooms in the East Wing, ready for a light supper and to turn in himself for the night.

            Yet he could not stop thinking about Regina and Roland as he ate in his room. He didn’t know why they snuck past his defenses and started to worm their way into the heart he had locked up years ago. It was battered and bruised and it was safer for him to keep people at arm’s length. If he didn’t care about anyone else, he couldn’t get hurt.

            But he cared about them.

            He sighed, rubbing his face as he decided not to deal with the feelings they evoked in him. It was likely that they would be gone by morning and he’d be back to his usual cold and aloof self.

            It was the only way to protect himself and his heart.

            Robin couldn’t experience that pain again.

            Regina awoke and she blinked, staring at the ceiling over her in confusion. It took a few moments before her mind recalled what had happened the day before – getting caught in the storm, being rescued and then taken by a kindly older woman to this large and beautifully decorated room. She then recalled speaking with her savior before falling back asleep.

            Her very, very handsome savior.

            Robin.

            Not that anything could happen between them. He was clearly some noble, judging by his fine clothes and the furs he had used. Then there was the room she and Roland were given, large and extravagantly decorated with a large fireplace. Everything about it just fit with the home of a noble, almost reminding her of her days in the palace. And given that there had been servants jumping to tend to him, it was clear Robin was someone important.

            She was a nobody, a bandit who lived in the woods and stole from nobles like him to help take care of her son. One day she hoped to give Roland a better life, one where they weren’t always looking over their shoulders and constantly running from Queen Snow White.

            Nobles definitely didn’t romance bandits wanted by the monarch.

            Her stomach growled and she pressed her hand to it. The older woman who had brought them to their room had then asked another maid to bring up two bowls of thick stew for them to eat. It had filled their stomachs for the first time in a couple months as it was always difficult to find meat in the winter, no matter how much she tried to prepare. But it was morning now and they needed to eat again.

            She just didn’t know how to tell someone or find the kitchens in this place.

            Pushing the blankets back, Regina climbed out of bed and padded toward the fireplace. She stoked the flames back to life to warm the room before heading over to the window. Regina pushed the curtain back to look out at the snow-covered land. But she realized it was still snowing and she could barely make anything out amongst the flakes.

            “Yes, the storm is still raging outside.” Regina recognized the voice of the woman who had taken care of her the night before. Turning around, she watched the blonde put a tray of food down on the table.

            Straightening up, the woman smiled. “I don’t think we exchanged names last night. I’m Maleficent.”

            “Regina,” she replied, realizing that there was no point in lying about her name. She had given it to Robin the night before without hesitation, too tired to even come up with false names to protect herself and Roland. They were now at Robin’s mercy and Regina had to pray he helped them rather than hurt them.

            “It’s nice to meet you, Regina,” Maleficent said. She then motioned to the bed. “And who is that?”

            Regina smiled softly. “That’s my son, Roland.”

            “Well, I’m sure you’re both hungry,” Maleficent replied, taking plates off the tray she set down on the table. “I’ve brought you some eggs and sausage from the kitchen.”

            “Thank you,” Regina said, her stomach growling in response.

            Maleficent chuckled. “You two enjoy your meal and I’ll go find some clothes for you.”

            “Oh, that’s okay,” Regina protested. “You’ve done so much for us. We don’t want to be a bother.”

            “Nonsense. You two are personal guests of His Majesty the king and will be treated as such,” Maleficent insisted.

            That surprised Regina and it took her a few moments to recover her voice to ask: “King? King Who? Of where?”

            “King Robin of Sherwood,” Maleficent replied, frowning. “Did you not know?”

            “No, I didn’t. I just kept walking through the forest to find some place to wait out the storm. I didn’t realize I had entered Sherwood,” she said, still surprised to learn that a king himself had come to rescue her and Roland.    

            Maleficent nodded. “That makes sense, especially with the snow.”

            “But the king himself came to rescue me?” Regina asked, mostly to herself. She just couldn’t believe it.

            “We were surprised ourselves,” the other woman replied. “He just barreled out the door with his cloak on. We were worried, especially given…well, we were worried.”

            Regina frowned, wondering what made Maleficent feel concerned yet also not want to share it. She didn’t push, though, knowing she needed to stay on everyone’s good side so she and Roland didn’t end up back out in the snow. Especially as she knew it would not go well once King Robin realized who she truly was. No doubt Snow White had told her fellow royals to watch out for the bandit Regina and to turn her over to her.

            “Are you alright, dear?” Maleficent asked, now looking at her with concern in her eyes.

            “Yes,” Regina lied. “Just lost in my thoughts.”

            She nodded before pulling out a chair. “You enjoy this food before it gets cold and I’ll be back shortly.”

            Regina thanked her again, heading over to the bed. She shook Roland. “Time to wake up, sweetheart.”

            He groaned, rolling away from her. “Don’t wanna.”

            She bit the inside of her cheek as she climbed onto the bed. “Well, if you don’t, then I’m going to have to call the tickle monster.”

            “No,” he moaned, moving even further away.

            Regina reached over, pulling him toward her as she tickled his sides. His laughter echoed around the room as he flailed in her arms. “Mama!”

            “Say the magic word,” she told him.

            “Please!” he exclaimed between laughter. “Please, Mama!”

            She stopped, hugging him close as she kissed his cheek. “Are you hungry?”

            His eyes lit up as he nodded. “What are we going to have?”

            “Sausages and eggs,” she said, picking him up as she stood from the bed. She carried him over to the table and set him down in a chair.

            Roland licked his lips as she sat down next to him. “This looks delicious, Mama,” he said.

            “I know,” she replied, cutting up his sausages for him before setting the plate in front of him. “Remember, don’t eat too fast.”

            “I won’t, Mama,” he said, taking a bite of the sausage.

            Regina poured them both some tea before she ate her own eggs. It tasted even more delicious than she remembered and she made a note to send a compliment to the chef through Maleficent. She also had to restrain herself from eating too fast, wanting to set a good example for her son. But it was difficult as the food was just that good.

            “Mama, how long are we going to stay here?” Roland asked her, looking up at her with wide eyes.

            “I don’t know,” she replied. “It will depend on how long the king allows us to stay here?”

            Roland frowned. “The king?”

            She nodded. “You remember the man who carried you here? He’s the king.”

            “Does he know Queen Snow White? Is he going to give us to her so she can hurt us?” he asked, tears filling her eyes.

            Regina hesitated, unsure of the answer. It was likely Snow White had relationships with all the surrounding kingdoms and no doubt told them she was looking for a bandit named Regina. King Robin hadn’t shown any recognition when she gave him her name the night before but that didn’t mean anything. He probably just hadn’t put the pieces together.

            She reached out and took her son’s hand. “No matter what happens, I won’t let any harm come to you. I promise.”

            “I know, Mama,” he said, his trust in her absolute.

            Regina just hoped she wouldn’t have to shatter it.

            Forcing a smile, she motioned to the food he had yet to eat. “Finish your breakfast. Best to enjoy all this delicious food while we can.”

            “Right!” he agreed with a bright smile. He turned back to his plate, eagerly eating his food again.

            Taking a deep breath, Regina did the same. She hated having to leave their fate in someone else’s hands but she realized she had no choice. Perhaps she would find King Robin after breakfast and try to find out his intentions with her.

            And then if she needed to run with Roland, she would do so as soon as it was clear they wouldn’t freeze.

            Knocking interrupted Robin as he studied the latest reports on his country’s grain stores. The storm was worst than anticipated and he wanted to make certain everyone would be able to make it through the coming weeks.

            Lifting his head, he frowned as he said: “Enter!”

            The door opened and John walked in with a tray in his hand. “I’ve brought you your noon meal, Your Majesty.”

            “You can put it on the table there,” he said, motioning to the one near him before returning to his ledger.

            He did as he ordered before straightening up. “Mal said that your guests have been given their morning and noon meals, sire. And we were able to find clothing for them.”

            While Robin was pleased to hear this, he tried to pretend he didn’t care. “That’s fine.”

            “Do you want to see them?” he asked.

            Part of him wanted to say yes but that side was quickly overruled by the side that knew it was dangerous to let anyone else get close to him again. So he shook his head. “I am fine.”

            John stood there, not moving. After a few moments, he asked: “May I be blunt, Your Majesty?”

            Robin sighed, setting his pen down. “Does it really matter? You usually speak your mind anyway. So yes, you may be blunt.”

            “Thank you,” John said, stepping forward. “I’ve watched you distance yourself after losing Marian and the baby and I see how you’ve insulated yourself to try to keep from feeling that pain again. And I understand it.”

            “But?” Robin asked, knowing his friend and trusted advisor wouldn’t ask to be blunt if there wasn’t something he knew Robin wouldn’t like he wanted to say.

            John sighed. “I don’t think this would’ve been the life Marian would’ve wanted for you. She would’ve wanted you to enjoy life, to be happy.”

            “And how do my guests figure into that?” he asked.

            “Watching you just storm out into a storm and risking your life for two people you have never met – that reminded me of you were before you lost Marian,” John replied. “So I can’t help but wonder if they came into your life for a reason.”

            Robin frowned. “They came into my life because of snowstorm, not divine intervention or whatever you’re thinking of.”

            “That doesn’t mean you have to ignore them,” John countered.

            “And why are you so adamant I shouldn’t?” Robin asked, his anger starting to rise. John was more than an advisor and was one of the few people he counted as a friend. He should know that all Robin wanted to be was left alone. Why didn’t he respect that?

            John sighed. “Because I don’t like seeing you alone.”

            “I’m not alone,” he replied. “I have a whole court.”

            “Who you keep at arm’s length,” John pointed out. “I’m the only one even allowed in this room other than the chambermaid who cleans it.”

            Robin bristled, knowing that John had a point. Still, he replied: “I am king. It can be lonely to wear the crown.”

            “Even kings are allowed to have friends.”

            “I have you,” Robin told him.

            John rolled his eyes. “You know I used the plural. Just…think about it, okay? It’s not going to be disrespectful to Marian or the child you lost if you befriended the mother and child you rescued.”

            “I’m not trying to replace them,” he snapped at his friend.

            “That’s not what I said,” John argued, raising his hands as if surrendering. “You have a big heart, Robin. You always have. It was one of the many things that Marian loved about you. You have the room for two more people.”

            Robin scowled at him. “And what if I don’t want to do that?”

            John’s shoulders slumped and sadness filled his eyes. “It’s up to you. But I hope you won’t. I hate seeing you like this.”

            “Like what? Cold? Mean? Unfeeling?” he snapped again, knowing all the words he was called behind his back.

            But his friend shook his head. “Lonely.”

            Unable to argue that, Robin busied himself with his ledger again. “Your observation has been noted. You can go,” he ordered.

            “Yes, Your Majesty,” John said, bowing. “Enjoy your meal.”

            Once he was gone, Robin leaned back in his seat and rubbed his face. He knew John’s heart was in the right place – the man was his only friend and did genuinely care for him – but he didn’t understand the pain Robin had carried in his heart every day since he lost both his wife and his son. They had taken any chance he had for happiness with him and he knew he would never find it again. And even if he did, it still felt like a betrayal of their memories.

            He ate his meal in silence before deciding to return the dishes to the kitchen himself. The servants seemed surprised to see him and they all dropped into hasty curtsies or bows as he set the plates down without a word. Robin quickly walked away, heading back to his study to continue his work.

            As he passed one hallway, he heard crying. He paused before going to investigate the sound. Robin only took a few steps before he found the young boy he had rescued the day before sitting on the floor, sniffling. Crouching down to his level, Robin kept his tone soft as he asked: “What’s wrong?”

            “I lost my mama,” the boy said, sniffling. “I followed a kitty I saw and now I can’t find our room.”

            “Well, I know where your room is,” Robin replied, holding out his hand. “Why don’t I bring you back to her?”

            The boy – Roland, he reminded himself – looked at his hand but hesitated. “I’m not supposed to trust strangers.”

            Robin nodded. “That’s a very good rule. My name is Robin and I’m the one who carried you here yesterday, so I’m not a stranger.”

            “You’re the king,” Roland said, scrunching up his nose. He looked almost fearful of Robin. “Are you going to turn Mama and me over to Queen Snow White?”

            “Snow White?” Robin asked, surprised. He had heard stories of the cruel queen of Mist Haven, who terrorized her people as she sought one particular person who she claimed had ruined her life.

            Was Regina that person?

            Roland nodded. “She wants to hurt Mama and me.”

            “I promise you that no one will hurt you or your mother while you live in my castle,” he vowed.

            That seemed to appease the boy, who took his hand. Robin lifted him up and placed him on his hip. “Alright, let’s go find your mama.”

            He carried Roland through the hallway and into the throne room. The boy pointed to his throne. “Do you sit there?”

            “I do,” Robin said. “Not every day. Only when I call court together.”

            “Are you going to call it today?” the boy asked him, intrigued.

            Robin shook his head before pointing to the window. “It’s too cold and snowy. Everyone is safer in their homes.”

            “And warmer,” Roland added.

            Chuckling, Robin nodded. He stepped into the corridor where Mal had put his guests when he heard someone calling Roland’s name. Looking down, he saw the boy perk up. “I think your mama is looking for you.”

            “Mama!” Roland called out, waving his free arm. “I’m here.”

            Regina appeared, looking panicked. She raced over to him, holding out her arms for Roland. He almost jumped from Robin’s arms into hers and held her close. She cradled his head as she rocked him. “Don’t you scare me like that!”

            “Sorry, Mama,” he said. “I saw a kitten and wanted to play. The king saved me.”

            He pulled away, pointing to Robin. “And he said he won’t let Queen Snow hurt us.”

            She looked up at him, her eyes wide. Robin nodded. “You are safe here in my castle. You have my word.”

            “Thank you,” she said, relaxing somewhat. She kissed Roland’s forehead before saying: “I’m sorry that he bothered you.”

            “He wasn’t a bother at all,” Robin replied. He reached out and shook Roland’s hand. “Listen to your mama and don’t scare her, okay?”

            Roland nodded. “I will.”

            Pleased, Robin then bowed to Regina. “Have a good afternoon.”

            “You too,” she said, sounding a bit amazed. He gave her a half-smile before walking away to head back to his study. A tightness settled in his chest as he continued to walk away. It was easy to imagine the son he lost acting just like Roland – very loving and inquisitive. Robin knew he would’ve carried the boy around and answered every question posed as he prepared his heir to rule Sherwood one day.

            Roland reminded him of everything he lost…yet at the same time, he made him forget his pain. Everything had seemed brighter when he had been carrying Roland around and talking with him. Maybe John was right – maybe it wouldn’t be disrespectful to his son’s memory if he spent more time with Roland.

            Maybe it would help him hurt just a little bit less.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2: Confidences

"Maleficent, can I ask you a question?" Regina asked quietly as the woman cleared away the dishes from their evening meal.

The blonde straightened up, nodding. "Of course."

"If I wanted to talk to the king, where would I find him?" she asked.

Maleficent frowned. "His usually spends all his time in his study but only one person is allowed in there – his chief advisor, John."

"And where is his study?" Regina pressed, desperate to talk to the king sooner rather than later.

"He won't see you," Maleficent told her.

It didn't deter Regina. She continued to plead with the chambermaid. "Please tell me. I need to speak with him. It's very important."

Maleficent sighed. "Fine. Cross the throne room to the East Wing. Go up two flights to the third floor and down the hallway right across from the staircase. At the very end you'll find two doors with the royal crest carved into it. That's the royal study."

Regina took her hands and gave them a squeeze. "Thank you. Do you mind watching Roland for me?"

"Wait, are you going now?" Maleficent asked, alarmed.

"Yes," Regina replied. "I know it's late but I imagine His Majesty doesn't go to bed early. I need to talk to him. It's important."

Maleficent pressed her lips together. "I'll stay with your boy but I don't think you'll be able to talk to His Majesty."

"I'm very persistent," Regina said, thanking Maleficent again. She took a deep breath and left the room, following the directions to the king's study.

In no time, Regina stood in front of two imposing wooden doors. Both were carved with a roaring lion against a shield, which she was certain was the royal crest. She swallowed as she knocked on the door, hoping the king would let her in.

"Enter!" His voice boomed from inside the room and her stomach twisted into a knot. While he had always seemed kind all three times she had spoken with him, this was the first time she was invading his personal space. She didn't know how he would react to that.

She opened the door and entered the room, finding him sitting at a desk. He looked up and frowned. "You're not John."

"No, I'm not," she replied, trying not to fidget with her hands. Stepping forward, she said: "I apologize for disturbing you but I really need to speak with you. It's important."

He looked her over and she held her breath, afraid he was going to throw her out of the room. After a few moments, he closed the book on his desk and stood. He motioned to the table by his fireplace. "Please, have a seat."

She released her breath, joining him at the table. King Robin pulled out a chair for her and she sat down. Once he sat across from her, he clasped his hands together as he asked: "What is troubling you?"

"Your promise to Roland," she replied.

He nodded. Looking in her eyes, he said solemnly: "I meant it. I vow that no harm will come to you while you are in my palace."

"Right," she said slowly. "But how do I know that doesn't mean that once we can leave, Queen Snow White won't be waiting for us just beyond your gates?"

Surprise and hurt filled his eyes. "You think I would do that?"

Regina shrugged. "I don't really know you. And I know all royals and nobles tend to stick together and help each other, no matter who gets hurt."

"Well, that's fair," he allowed, "but I have no great affinity for Queen Snow White. I think what she is doing is abominable."

"Do you know why she is doing it?" she asked, wondering if he knew any part of the story or not. If he knew she was the one was Snow White was looking for and if he didn't, would that change his answer?

She was certain it would.

He tilted his head before standing. She watched as he walked over to his desk, picking up a piece of parchment. King Robin returned to the table, laying it before her. "I suppose it has something to do with you?"

Regina's heart stopped as she looked down at one of the many reward posters Snow White had sent out. A drawing of Regina was placed next to one of Daniel and a lump formed in her throat at the sight of her husband. He had been taken from her a few years earlier and she still missed him every day, wishing he was there with her and Roland.

"Regina?" King Robin asked, his voice gentle. "Are you alright?"

She shook her head, stroking Daniel's picture. "I miss him."

"He's Roland's father," the king said. It was a statement, not a question, but she still nodded. He then asked: "What happened to him?"

"The queen killed him," she replied softly. "And it was my fault. It was all my fault."

A handkerchief appeared in her vision and she looked up, surprised to find he was blurry. She hadn't realized she was crying until that moment. Regina accepted the handkerchief and dabbed at her eyes. "Thank you."

"You don't have to explain anything to me," he said, his voice soft and low. "You have my word that no harm will come to you while you are in my palace and I extend that to my kingdom."

She tried not to get too hopeful after that promise. While she could just accept it and walk away, she knew he needed to know the full story and be given a chance to rescind his promises. Because it was likely he wouldn't protect her once he knew the truth.

"You deserve to know the truth," she replied. "To know who you are offering sanctuary to."

Regina took a deep breath before starting her story. "I was abandoned as a baby. My mother left me in the woods, probably to die. But it happened to be right near the royal palace. Queen Eva and King Leopold heard my cries when they were riding and rescued me."

"And they took you in?" he asked, no doubt confused. Most royal couples didn't adopt orphans in order to keep their bloodlines pure. Regina had heard that a lot while growing up.

"In their own way," she replied. "I was raised to be a maid, specifically to be Princess Snow White's handmaiden, but we were essentially raised together. I know it's silly, but I almost thought we were sisters."

King Robin shook his head. "It's not silly at all. John and I were the same. I see him as a brother."

"Maybe once Snow thought the same but that definitely changed when she met Prince James," Regina continued, her heart breaking again as she thought about how her once-sister changed seemingly overnight.

He frowned. "I had the displeasure of meeting him once. Would not stop talking about all the monsters he had slayed. I know King George was proud of him but his son had no diplomatic skills. He would've been a disaster of a king. Though as great of a warrior as he was, I always wonder who did him in in the end."

Regina grew quiet, the scene playing in her head again. She felt herself start to tremble as she told him: "Me."

When his eyebrows went up, she felt the need to assure him that she wasn't dangerous or some cold-blooded monster. "Not directly but it was still my fault. King Leopold did not think Prince James would make a good husband for his daughter so he refused to let her marry him. Snow and James plotted to run off together and marry in secret. She told me and swore me to secrecy.

"But I knew it was wrong. After warring with myself, I finally told King Leopold what they were going to do," she admitted, still guilty. Even if they hadn't been friends, royal handmaidens were supposed to be absolutely loyal to their mistress. She had not been and he now knew the real her.

A disloyal traitor.

"King Leopold had guards waiting for them and they prevented them from leaving. James tried to fight them and he was killed in battle. Snow was broken hearted and blamed me for killing him," she continued. She looked down. "So it is my fault. I wasn't loyal to her, I broke her confidence and she lost the man she loved because of it."

"You did the right thing," Robin assured her quietly.

She looked up, surprised. He was studying her, a serious look in his blue eyes and she swallowed before saying: "But I betrayed my princess. Isn't that treason?"

"Not to me," he replied. "You were assigned to serve the princess but your loyalty was always due to the king. She was going to betray him and had you kept her secret, you would've betrayed him too."

His words surprised Regina and she shifted in the chair. "I never thought about it that way. Snow's just always been so adamant that I was responsible for Prince James' death, I guess I started to believe it."

King Robin stood and walked to a table behind them. She couldn't tell what he was doing until he turned back around, now holding two glasses filled with an amber liquid. He set one down in front of her. "Do you like whiskey?" he asked.

"I've never had it before," she replied, picking up the glass. She swirled the liquid around. "They don't give servants anything better than weak ale."

He paused before sitting down. "Well, I think you'll like it. Careful, though, it can burn going down."

"Thank you," she said, taking a sip of the whiskey. It did burn as it went down but she found she liked it and took another sip.

He set his glass down. "I know you feel guilty but the only ones responsible for Prince James' death are himself and Queen Snow White. They could've made different decisions, including not fighting the royal guards."

"I know but it's hard to not still feel somewhat responsible," Regina told him. "The princess was inconsolable. She banished me from her rooms and I was reassigned to King Leopold but that didn't last long."

"Because he died?" Robin asked.

She nodded. "Snow White killed him."

He nearly choked on his whiskey and he coughed. Concern filled her and she stood, not wanting to be responsible for another royal death. But he held up his hand, the coughing slowly stopping. "Sorry. I knew he died but I didn't know he was murdered."

"No one outside of the castle does," Regina replied. "Snow would kill anyone who tried to tell people outside the castle gates."

"The more you talk about her, the less I like her," he said, shaking his head. "And I didn't much care for her to begin with."

Regina bit the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing, especially as she recalled the start of her time as a bandit on the run. "I only found out about that secondhand. Once the king's death was discovered, Daniel came and told me to pack. He knew that she would try to kill me next and we ran away that night."

"And Daniel was your husband?" he asked her.

"Betrothed," she replied. "He was one of the stable boys and we fell in love. King Leopold approved our marriage but he died before we could make everything official. Once we went on the run, it was too dangerous to get married. But we considered ourselves married in our hearts."

King Robin nodded. "You had Roland while on the run?"

"Yes," she said. "It wasn't planned but he's brought so much joy into my life that I can never regret my decision to have him. After Daniel was lost, he kept me going and I've vowed to give him the best life possible. That means trying to get out of Mist Haven, which unfortunately requires money."

"You're out of Mist Haven now," the king pointed out. "And I'm offering you sanctuary within my kingdom."

She wanted to feel as if she were safe but she knew how close Sherwood was to Mist Haven, especially if she accidentally wandered into it. Her goal had been to go to a place where it would take so long for Queen Snow to reach her, she wouldn't want to waste the energy to do so. The queen could easily march an army into Sherwood.

"What if she comes looking for me?" Regina asked him.

He shook his head. "She won't want war. Her kingdom can't afford it and we would easily crush them."

That surprised Regina. Queen Snow White always seemed so powerful. It was strange to think of her as otherwise.

"You do know she practices magic, right?" Regina reminded him. Snow was a formidable opponent with weapons but she was unstoppable when she used her magic, able to hurt and kill with the flick of her wrist.

He nodded. "It wouldn't help her much as I've taken precautions against magic. She still doesn't have much money and her army is rather small."

"It never felt small when I was running from them," she told him. "But her Black Guards have their faces constantly covered. I could've been running from the same people the entire time."

King Robin chuckled. "It's possible."

Feeling more secure than she had when she entered, Regina finished her whiskey. She set the glass down. "Thank you for the whiskey. And thank you for listening to me. I appreciate it."

"You're welcome," he replied.

She stood, bobbing a curtsy. "I should return to my son now. Good night, Your Majesty."

He rose as well, studying her. "Do you want me to walk you to your rooms?"

"Thank you but I have inconvenienced you enough tonight," she said, slowly backing away. She stepped out of his study and closed the door behind her, letting out a shaky breath. They would be safe in Sherwood.

Maybe they would finally be able to put down roots and she could finally give Roland a stable childhood. As she returned to her room, she found she was filled with something she hadn't felt in years.

Hope.

"You wanted to see me?" John asked, stepping into Robin's study the next morning.

Robin looked up from the wanted poster he was studying. He held it out to John. "I found this last night."

John took it and looked it over. "Is this Regina?"

"It is," he confirmed. "She's the bandit Queen Snow White has been chasing for years now."

"Have you told her you know?" John asked him, handing the wanted poster back.

Robin nodded. "Well, Roland really gave it away. She came here last night to talk to me about it, scared I would turn her over to the Queen."

"Did she tell you why the Queen wants her so badly?" he asked.

"She did," he confirmed. "It's ridiculous. Queen Snow White blames her for the death of Prince James despite it being their own faults."

John frowned. "That's awful. But what about the other person on that poster?"

"He was her betrothed and is Roland's father," Robin told him. "He fell victim to the queen's wrath."

"That's awful," John replied, studying Robin. "Why are you telling me this?"

Robin motioned for him to give the poster back. He took it, studying Regina's and Daniel's pictures again. "I've granted both her and Roland sanctuary and promised to keep her safe from Queen Snow White."

John nodded, a strange look in his eyes. "I see. Do you need me to write up any official order?"

"I do," he replied. "I want to ensure everyone knows that if Queen Snow White comes, we are not going to give her Regina under any circumstance."

"Yes, sir," John said. "Anything else?"

Robin shook his head. "Not right now. Thank you, John."

"You're welcome," his friend said. He then asked: "You care for her, don't you?"

"What?" Robin asked, looking up as his heart pounded.

John shrugged. "It's just that you met her only the other day and now you're granting her sanctuary. I just wonder why she's endeared herself to you so quickly."

Robin bristled a bit, accusations hurtling through his brain. Have you forgotten Marian? The son you two would shared? Are you insulting their memories by focusing on this bandit and her son?

"She is innocent," Robin replied. "The queen can't handle the consequences of her own actions and is taking it out on Regina and Roland. That's not fair. You know I will not stand for such injustice and will protect whoever I can from it."

"Of course," John said, sounding a bit disappointed. He bowed before leaving the room.

Robin sighed, tucking the poster back under his other papers. He stood, stretching his back and walking out of the room to get some food for himself. It was a good distraction from the questions still rattling around his mind.

Why did he care so much about Regina and Roland?

Was he trying to replace Marian and their son?

And most importantly, was he disrespecting their memory by feeling so drawn by the two?

"KING!" Something small crashed into his legs, holding them. Robin looked down to find Roland wrapped around his legs, smiling up at him. "Hi."

Robin chuckled, picking the boy up. "Hello there, Roland. Please tell me you haven't run away from your mother again."

He shook his head before pointing behind him. "She's right there, King."

Following Roland's finger, Robin was relieved to see Regina walking toward him. She smiled as she tucked some hair behind her ear. "I'm sorry if he bothered you," she said.

"Not at all," he replied, resting Roland on his hip. "Were you heading down to the kitchens for the midday meal?"

"We were," she replied.

He smiled, holding out his free arm to her. "Then may I escort you there?"

"Thank you," she said, taking his arm. They continued down the hall and he guided them to the kitchens.

Mal looked up as they entered before dipping into a curtsy. "Your Majesty. This is a surprise."

"Well, it appears we all got hungry at the same time," he said. "Is the midday meal ready?"

"It is," she replied. "Do you want to eat in here or shall I set you up in the dining hall?"

Robin glanced between Regina and Roland before answering: "Here is fine."

Mal nodded. "We'll set the table for you."

"Thank you," he replied, motioning for Regina to walk ahead of him. "After you."

She hesitated. "You're the king. You should go first."

He paused, recalling that she was raised to be a queen's handmaiden. She would know all the rules when it came to royalty and even though she no longer served the queen, those rules were ingrained in her.

Softening his expression, he gave her a reassuring smile. "It is alright. You can go ahead of me. And you can consider that a royal order."

"Well, I can't refuse a royal order," she replied with a soft smile. She stepped ahead of him and took a seat at the table in the kitchen.

Robin placed Roland at another chair before taking a seat on the other side of him. "What would you like to drink, Roland?" he asked the boy.

"Can I have some juice?" Roland asked, his eyes wide.

"We have some apple juice," Mal said, glancing at Regina. "Will that be fine?"

Regina nodded. "That will be fine."

"And we'll have some wine, please," Robin ordered. "Why don't you bring my best port?"

That seemed to give Mal some pause before she nodded. "As you wish."

After she left, Regina frowned as she turned to Robin. "You don't have to waste your best port on me."

"It wouldn't be a waste," he replied, frowning as he wondered why she would think that. Perhaps there was more to her story than she had told him.

Mal returned, setting a cup down in front of Roland. "Let me know if you want more," she told him.

"I will," he said. "Thank you."

She then turned to Robin and Regina. "I will be back with the port."

As she walked away, another maid approached them with several plates of cold meats. "We also have a hearty stew coming too," she told them. "And some bread."

"Thank you," Regina said softly.

"You're welcome," the maid said, bobbing a curtsy. "Enjoy."

She walked away as Regina cut up some meat for Roland. "Eat slowly and remember to chew carefully," she told him.

"Yes, Mama," he said, picking up a piece of cold beef and placing it in his mouth.

Mal returned with two goblets, setting one down in front of Regina and the other in front of Robin. "Let me know if you would like more," she said.

"Thank you, Maleficent," he replied as the other maid returned with three bowls of stew. They all then retreated, giving him some privacy with mother and son.

Robin raised his goblet. "Enjoy," he told Regina.

"You too," she said, raising her own goblet. "And thank you for your hospitality. We appreciate it."

"Yes, thank you," Roland said, spewing bits of meat out as he spoke.

She frowned, wiping her son's face. "Do not talk with your mouth full. Especially around the king."

He swallowed before looking contrite. "Sorry, Mama. Sorry, King."

"Just be careful," Robin warned. "We don't want anything to happen to you."

Roland nodded as he continued to eat and so Robin turned to his own stew, adding some pieces of meat to it. From the corner of his eye, he watched Regina take a tentative sip of her port wine before her eyes went big. He frowned. "Is something wrong with the wine?"

"No, not at all," she said. "It's just a lot finer and richer than the watered-down ale I'm used to."

"I imagine it is," he replied. "You get used to it."

Regina raised an eyebrow. "Spoken by a man raised drinking and eating all the good foods and never having to scrounge around for the crumbs that fall off tables."

That took him aback but when he thought about it, it was true. He had always had access to the best things in life – food, drink, clothes and so much more. Looking at Regina and Roland in their borrowed clothes, he wondered what it was like to hunt and forage for meals. He wondered if they had missed meals because of that while he had enjoyed the same amount of food in one night that they had in a year.

How many other people went hungry while he and his court grew fat?

She raised an eyebrow before saying: "And I'm not going to get used to it. I know your hospitality will only last until the snow melts. Then Roland and I will have to make our own way in Sherwood, which means going back to the watered-down ale."

"My hospitality does not have an end date," he insisted with a frown, wondering if he had said anything to give her that impression.

"While I think you might be sincere," she said, narrowing her eyes as she studied him. "I refuse to be a charity case. I will support myself and my son."

The fire in her voice took him aback again. He had never thought someone would turn down the chance to live in a palace without giving anything in return. But then he wondered if he had really thought that was what he was going to offer Regina. And if it was, why? Why would he treat her differently?

You already are, a little voice in his head told him. You put her in a room meant for nobles rather than in the servant quarters. You have assigned her a handmaiden. Why are you treating her differently?

He wasn't sure he wanted to answer that question yet.

Instead, he asked: "What do you plan to do?"

"I do not know," she admitted. She then added: "Yet. I'm certain I will think of something."

He nodded, deciding to pull back. "Of course."

She turned back to her plate before smirking. "Unless you need a bandit…"

"Not right now," he replied, trying not to laugh. It at least broke the tension in the air and he relaxed a bit.

Roland looked up at him. "What do you do, King?"

That caught Robin off-guard and he frowned. "What do you mean, Roland?"

"What does a king do? Like every day?" he asked. "Do you chase people like Queen Snow?"

"No, of course not. A good ruler doesn't do that," Robin told him, his heart breaking for the boy who only saw royalty as a vengeful force that had kept Roland and his mother on the run for most of his short life.

It made him despise Snow White even more.

"So what does a good ruler do?" Roland asked him, his brow furrowing in confusion.

"A good ruler makes certain that his people are safe, that they have places to live and food to eat, that they have access to markets and to medicines," Robin explained. "A good ruler wants to make certain his people have good lives."

Roland's eyes widened. "Really?"

"Really," he replied.

"So Queen Snow White isn't a good ruler?" Roland asked. Beside him, his mother tried to hide her snort of derision.

Robin smiled. "She is not."

"Then I'm glad you're our king now," the boy said, beaming at him. "You're a good ruler."

"Thank you, Roland," Robin replied, touched by his trust in him.

Regina ran her fingers through his hair. "Eat your food, sweetheart. You don't want your stew to get cold," she told him softly.

"Okay, Mama," he said, turning back to his bowl.

She caught Robin's eyes, looking sheepish, and mouthed I'm sorry to him. He frowned and shook her head, hoping she understood that she had nothing to apologize for and that he enjoyed Roland's questions. The boy almost made him miss the son he should've had a little less.

They ate a little bit more before Robin turned back to Roland. "Roland, would you like a tour of the castle?"

Roland perked up, his eyes widening. "Yes, please!"

"Well, if it's alright with your mother, we can go after our meal," he said, glancing up at Regina.

Gasping, Roland also looked up at his mother and clasped his hands together. "Please, Mama. Can I go on a tour of the palace with King?"

She glanced up at Robin and he smiled. "I would love to give it to him. Well, both of you. Welcome you to your new home. Or your home for now."

"Please, Mama? Please," Roland begged, giving her what Robin believed was his best doe eyes.

Regina sighed. "Alright, alright. If His Majesty is willing to give us a tour, we can take it."

Roland cheered and turned back to Robin. "Can we go now?"

"I think we all need to finish our meals first," he said, motioning to Roland's unfinished stew. "Then we can go."

The boy turned back to his meal, eagerly eating it as the two adults shared a chuckle. Robin caught Regina's eyes and she mouthed thank you to him. He nodded before they turned back to their plates to finish their food.

And then they had a tour to go on.

"Mama?" Roland asked as she tucked him into bed that night.

"Yes?" She sat down on the edge of the bed. "What is it?"

He sat up a bit. "Are we going to stay in the palace? For good?"

She paused, not sure what their next moves were going to be once the snow melted and the weather warmed up. "I don't know. I'll have to see. Why?"

"I was just wondering," he said, laying back down. "I like it here."

"You do?" she asked, smiling.

He nodded. "There's lots of places to explore, we don't have to hunt for food and it's nice and warm."

"It is nice," she agreed, knowing it would probably be hard to find some place to stay right away after leaving the palace. She didn't want to put Roland through that uncertainty again.

She leaned closer to him. "But I need to figure out what I can do here in the palace. We can't expect the king to just let us stay here for free forever."

"Why not?" he asked, frowning.

Regina sighed, not in the mood to answer her son's endless questions. It was getting late and she wanted to get some sleep too. "I'll tell you in the morning."

He scowled. "Promise?"

"Promise," she assured him. "It's late and we both need sleep."

"Okay, Mama," he replied, sighing. "I love you."

She smiled, kissing his forehead. "I love you too, Roland. Sweet dreams."

He closed his eyes and rolled over. She continued to sit next to him, watching as his breathing evened out and he drifted off to sleep. Regina made sure the blankets were tucked around him before standing to get ready for bed herself.

Regina removed the dress she wore and took off her stockings until she was just in her shift. She braided her hair and tied it off before climbing into bed with Roland. Blowing out the candle by the nightstand, she curled against her son and closed her eyes to try to fall asleep.

But her mind wouldn't go to sleep. While she knew Queen Eva had had good intentions when she had taken Regina in as an abandoned baby, it meant that Regina had grown up knowing that she had to repay that kindness. That she couldn't complain because she was already too fortunate to be a servant in the palace. And for a long time, she had believed it.

Then Snow White had turned on her and she had to go on the run, taking everything away from her. She realized she hadn't been fortunate at all. Everything she had had was predicated on keeping someone else happy. And she vowed to never live like that again. She was going to make her own way and rely only on herself. For the most part, she had done that.

Until now.

She was grateful to King Robin. He had saved her and Roland during that snowstorm. And she was glad to have a warm place to stay during this fierce winter. But the longer he continued to shelter them, feed them and clothe them without asking for anything in return, the more she grew worried that she would end up owing him a debt she would never be able to repay – and that it would give him leverage to control her or Roland.

While King Robin seemed to be kind, she knew how quickly kindness can turn to cruelty. She didn't want to see that happen to her and Roland.

But she didn't know what she could. She had skills as a bandit but she knew she would have to live her life honestly in Sherwood. Regina wanted to live her life honestly. If only she had skills that weren't about hunting, stealing or serving in a palace.

Maybe she could learn something before the spring came, a skill or trade that would allow her to leave with Roland and set them up with a good life in Sherwood. As her eyes started to close, she decided she would ask Mal to help her in the morning.

Feeling more certain about her future in Sherwood, Regina curled around her son and let sleep take her away.

"John, do I have anything important scheduled this afternoon?" Robin asked his faithful steward, leaning back in his chair.

"You do not," John replied, frowning. "Why?"

Robin stood, stretching out some kinks that had formed from sitting all morning. "If anyone is looking for me, tell them I am occupied and do not wish to be disturbed."

"Yes, sire. May I ask where you will be just in case we need you?" John asked, tilting his head.

"I'll be around," he replied. "Possibly in the armory or around there. I want to start teaching Roland about archery."

John raised his eyebrow. "And his mother agreed to that?"

"Well, I haven't asked her," Robin said, feeling a bit guilty. "I guess I should."

"Yes. She is his parent, not you," John replied with a pointed expression.

Guilt gnawed at Robin, admitting to himself that he had a fatherly tendency to the young boy and it was easy to forget he had no real say in Roland's life. It was just that he was a father without a son and Roland was a son without a father. They seemed to complete each other.

And so the accusation was clear in John's words – Robin was not his father and should not try to be his father.

He could not replace the son he lost.

Nor did he want to.

But he did enjoy spending time with Roland and he wanted to do so while the boy was in the palace. Especially as it seemed Regina would want to leave once spring arrived so she could start a new life with her son. He wished he could keep them in the palace but after hearing her story, he doubted she would want to become a servant again and he had nothing else he could offer her.

"I will ask Regina," he told John. "I know I am not his parent."

"I just don't want you to run afoul of her. She seems like a Mama Bear if you ask me," John replied, chuckling.

Robin laughed as well. "Yes, she is. I would not want to get on her bad side. I have no doubt she would be a formidable adversary."

"I definitely wouldn't want to be on her bad side," John agreed.

He then grew more solemn though his smile remained. "I won't keep you from Roland. Not when he makes you so happy."

John bowed and left the room before Robin could respond. He then also left the room to look for the boy as his heart and mind felt conflicted. While he wasn't trying to replace his lost son with the young boy, did it still betray his boy's memory for him to even be happy with another child? Was Robin being disrespectful to him?

Leaning against his desk, he took a deep breath and then let it out. Marian had always told him that she just wanted him to be happy. Deep in his heart, he believed she would still say that now. So he moved forward, deciding to be a little bit selfish until he got a sign telling him otherwise.

He pushed away from his desk and left his study, heading toward where Regina and Roland's rooms were. When he arrived at their door, he knocked a couple times and waited for someone to respond.

"Your Majesty!" Mal said, surprised when she opened the door. She dipped into a curtsy, bowing her head.

Robin greeted her before asking: "Is Lady Regina inside?"

"No. She asked for instructions to the armory and then left with her son," she replied, which surprised Robin. He thanked Mal before walking away, wondering why Regina wanted to bring her son to the armory.

When he arrived, he stopped short. Regina was on her knees as she showed Roland an arrow. They were talking in hushed tones but it seemed she was quizzing the boy on the parts of the arrow. He answered in a confident tone and she smiled proudly as she nodded after each one. She was definitely teaching him how to use a bow.

Interesting.

Robin stepped closer to them, clearing his throat to announce his presence. They both looked up as he asked: "What are you doing?"

"Mama is teaching me about arrows!" Roland answered, beaming. "She's the bestest at using them."

"Is that so?" Robin asked, raising an eyebrow as he looked up at Regina.

Her cheeks turned pink but she held his gaze. "We had to survive. And the bow and arrow are the easiest for hunting and defending ourselves."

"I prefer the bow myself," he replied, glancing to where his was kept. "Shall we have a competition?"

"What?" she asked, surprised. "Why?"

He fought the urge to smile as he said: "Roland just said you're the bestest. Well, everyone here will tell you I'm the bestest. So I believe we need to determine who is the bestest once and for all."

She raised an eyebrow. "You think you're a challenge for me?"

"I don't think I am," he replied. "I know I am."

"Prove it," she challenged, smirking.

She looked him over before nodding. "Fine. Let me go back to my room and get my bow."

He stepped aside, motioning toward the door. "I eagerly await your return."

Regina walked out of the room and he turned to Roland, who looked like he was ready to burst from excitement. Kneeling, Robin asked him: "So, how badly am I going to lose?"

"Pretty badly," Roland replied matter-of-factly. "I told you. Mama is the bestest archer."

Robin hummed, stroking his chin. "I see. Well, I guess I'll just have to do my best and see how close I can come to her."

He stood and held out his hand to Roland. "Why don't you come help me pick out the best bow and finest arrows for this?"

"Okay!" Roland took his hand and they walked over to where all the bows were stored to inspect them.

"Which one should I use?" Robin asked the boy, leaning down to get closer to him.

Roland looked them over, studying each bow carefully. Finally, he tapped one – which happened to be Robin's favorite. "This one."

"Good choice," Robin told him, taking it. "Now, the arrows."

"Right," Roland said, moving toward the various arrows on display. He looked over them before tapping ones with brown and white feathers. "I like these."

Robin smiled. "Those look wonderful. Thank you."

"Have you enlisted my son to work against me?" Regina asked from behind them. He turned to find her standing there, her arms crossed and an eyebrow raised.

Roland laughed as he ran to her, hugging her. "King wanted help so he could do his best since you're the bestest."

"It was the only way I thought I could even the playing field," Robin replied, giving her a wink.

Her eyebrow went down and she smirked. "Is that so?"

"It is, milady," he said, bowing slightly.

"Then I guess we should see if his help did any good," she replied, stepping closer to him. "Where are the targets?"

He stepped aside, motioning toward the next room. "In there. After you, milady."

She started to walk past him before pausing, looking right at him. "Don't get in my way."

"I wouldn't dream of it," he told her with an elaborate bow. She looked him over before walking away. He waited a moment before following her with Roland in tow.

Robin entered the room with the targets set up against the wall, hay strewn about the floor to cushion errant arrows. He gently lifted Roland onto a bench behind them, which promised to keep him safe while they had their tournament. "Wish me luck," he whispered to the boy.

"Sorry, King," Roland whispered, looking contrite. He then stood and bellowed: "GOOD LUCK MAMA!"

Sighing, Robin nodded. "Guess I should've expected that."

"He is my son," Regina pointed out with a smug smile. "He will always be loyal to me."

"As it should be," he agreed, his chest constricting as he thought about his own son cheering for him.

He shook that image from his mind. It would only distract him and he needed to focus everything on his competition with Regina.

"Closest to the bullseye?" he asked.

"Too easy," she replied. "You want this to be a real challenge, right?"

He didn't know if he was underestimating her or she overestimated herself. Robin decided it was the former and nodded. "What do you suggest?"

"Fire three arrows and see who has the most points," she replied, already nocking her first arrow.

Robin followed her lead, nodding. "I agree to those terms. What does the winner get?"

"Winner's choice," she suggested. "Unless you had something in mind?"

"That sounds fine to me," he replied, raising his bow. "You ready?"

She nodded, raising her own bow. "On your signal."

"Count of three then," he said, pulling back the string. "One…two…three."

He released his arrow and she did the same. Before it even landed, he had reloaded and fired his second arrow and then his third. Robin lowered his bow, eager to see how he had done and how Regina had fared.

Their targets looked almost identical and he was impressed.

"Shall we take a closer look?" he asked her, motioning to the targets. Regina nodded and they walked closer to inspect each other's handiwork.

Only one of Robin's arrows did not hit the bullseye but it was very close. Regina hit one bullseye but her other two arrows were only off by centimeters. He doubted he would be able to squeeze his fingers between the bullseye and either arrow. It was a close contest but, in the end, one of them just squeaked out ahead of the other.

"Congratulations," she said. "I suppose I've met my match."

"So I have," he replied, impressed with how close the contest truly had been.

She tilted her head, frowning. "I don't like to be humored."

"I am not. Our scores were very close. There is no one else who has gotten that close to me, not even my own soldiers," he told her. "I do consider you my equal."

Regina's eyes widened and her lips parted a bit, as if she couldn't believe what he was saying. "Surely you are jesting with me."

He shook his head. "I am serious, Regina. And you can come see my soldiers the next time they are training to see the proof yourself."

"I think I will," she said. She then squared her shoulders as she said: "Well, you won. What do you pick as your prize?"

"I would like to spend time with Roland," he said, glad to find a way to ask it though feeling a bit awkward to be using his prize to do so. It almost felt like he was forcing her to share her son.

She glanced at her son before looking back at him. "Why?" she asked, not out of suspicion but out of mere curiosity.

"I don't want to appear too forward, but I feel a connection with him," Robin told her as honestly as he could. "He's a sweet child and I enjoy being around him. And while I know I can't replace his father, I would like to be something of a father figure to him, if you will let me. You can absolutely refuse me. He's your son."

"Yes, he is," she replied before looking over at Roland again, biting her lip. "But he's also very fond of you. He doesn't have many male influences in his life right now. So I do think you would be a positive one for him to have. So, you can spend an hour with him every day until we leave. How does that sound?"

Joy filled him and he nodded. "That sounds perfect. Thank you. And, of course, you are welcome to join us if you want."

She shrugged. "I'll see. But I think it would probably be best if you two had some time to yourselves."

"Thank you, Regina. I appreciate it," he said.

"Well, I appreciate that you want to spend some time with my son," she admitted quietly. "You are certainly going over and beyond what you need to do."

He pressed his hand to his heart as he bowed slightly. "I am only doing what my heart tells me to do."

She looked him over before nodding. "I know you are. You are a rare breed amongst royalty."

"I am just myself," he told her, growing uncomfortable from her intense glare and genuine compliments.

Roland raced up to them, looking impatient. He looked between them. "Who won? King or Mama?"

"His Majesty won," Regina replied.

"By only a few points," Robin added. He leaned down. "Your mother very much rivals me when it comes to archery."

Roland looked between the two of them before focusing on Robin again. "You must be very, very good then."

Both adults laughed as Regina leaned down as well. "He is."

"And His Majesty would like to spend some time with you every day while we're still here in the palace," she continued.

Roland's eyes lit up and he started to bounce on the balls of his feet. "Really? Every day?"

They both nodded and he hugged Robin, who was surprised by the gesture. But he quickly returned it before straightening up. "How about I treat you and your mother to a nice evening meal?"

"Oh, we don't want to bother you further," Regina said, pulling Roland a bit closer to her as his face fell in disappointment.

"You won't be a bother at all," he assured her. "I like to have company at my table."

Roland looked up at his mother. "Please, Mama?"

Her expression softened and she nodded, looking up at Robin. "We would be honored to dine with you."

"Wonderful. Let's go then," he said, picking Roland up. It felt very natural, like he had done it a thousand times before. Roland settled against his hip as they walked out of the room together.

Regina fell into step beside him and his fingers itched to take her hand. He fought that urge, wondering where it came from. Deciding he had just been alone too long, he tried to forget about it but found he couldn't quick shake how right it felt for the three of them to be together. It was almost like they were meant to be a family.

No, he reminded himself. Your family is dead. Regina and Roland are not some placeholders for them.

They were not a family and never would be one.

He needed to stop thinking of them as such immediately or he was just going to experience more heartbreak.

"How much snow does Sherwood get?" Regina asked, looking out the window as fresh white flakes fell from a gray sky and added another layer to the snow already covering the ground.

She then turned to Mal, who was gathering their dishes from the morning meal. Mal shrugged. "Depends on the year. Some years we get almost none, some we don't see grass again until well into the spring months. Looks like this year is going to be one of those."

"Apparently," she said, sighing. "Looks like I'm going to be in this castle for a long time."

"Oh no. You're surrounded by luxury with a nice warm fire, good food and a king who is bending backwards to make you feel at home," Mal said in deadpan.

Regina paused, letting her words sink in and felt foolish. It did some ungrateful to complain about being trapped in a beautiful palace where all her needs and her son's needs were met rather than shivering in a cave or a tent. And she didn't have to keep worrying about the Black Guards or Snow White. She was free to come as she pleased and the only thing truly keeping her in was the weather, nothing else.

She then focused on something else Mal had said. "You really think the king is going over and beyond to make us feel at home?" she asked.

"Oh, yes," Mal said. "I mean, he's not in the habit of taking people in but I doubt he would go to these lengths for anyone else."

"What lengths?" Regina was genuinely curious now. She moved closer to Mal as she awaited the answer.

Mal raised an eyebrow. "For starters, you're here instead of the servant quarters. And I'm assigned to you. Not that I'm complaining. I would rather be serving you than anyone else in court."

"Oh," Regina replied, slightly embarrassed. "That is true."

"And not only have you gotten some borrowed dresses, I overheard His Majesty talking about getting you and Roland new wardrobes," she continued.

That surprised Regina. "He wants to order us clothes? That's too much! I'll tell him we don't need it."

"No one refuses a gift from His Majesty," Mal replied, sounding just as surprised.

"Then I'll be the first," Regina insisted. She didn't know what game this King Robin was playing but she wasn't going to let herself be ensnared by it.

Mal tilted her head. "Why do you fight the king's kindness?"

That caught Regina off-guard. "Pardon?"

"Why do you act like the king's kindness is something devious? Like it's bait and you are afraid of getting caught in a trap?" Mal asked.

"Because I am afraid of being caught in a trap," Regina replied. "I know how quickly kindness from someone like a king can turn to cruelty. I won't be caught in that again. Nor will I allow my son to be caught in it either."

Mal frowned. "King Robin isn't Queen Snow."

Regina sighed as she sat down. "Queen Snow wasn't always Queen Snow. Grief can change people."

"Oh, we know," Mal replied, sitting down as well. "I should probably tell you about Queen Marian."

"Who is Queen Marian?" Regina asked, curious.

Mal sighed. "She was Robin's wife. They were a love match and they were so happy together. She was a wonderful queen. While he was already an honorable and kind king, she still brought out a more compassionate side to him."

Regina could already guess the queen's fate as Mal kept using the past tense regarding her but she needed confirmation. "What happened to her?"

"She died in childbirth," Mal replied softly. "The baby didn't make it either."

"Oh," Regina said, feeling like she had been punched in the gut. King Robin had suffered two horrible losses at the same time and he still was a generous man, though it did explain why he wanted to spend time with Roland.

He was a father without a son who connected with a son without a father.

"King Robin was devastated. The whole kingdom mourned and after their funeral, he took to his rooms and didn't leave them for weeks. Only his secretary, John, was allowed entry and would bring anything that needed the king's approval to him. Otherwise, his council ran the country as best they could," Mal told her.

Regina understood that feeling. After she had lost Daniel, she had wanted to lay in bed and never get up again. The only reason she did was because Roland needed her. He gave her the strength to put one foot in front of the other and keep moving forward. She didn't know what would've happened had she not have him.

"When did he emerge again?" Regina asked, half-expecting Mal to say it was to save her and Roland from the storm.

"He emerged for the harvest festival," Mal replied. "But it was clear he wasn't the same as before. He wasn't cruel but it was clear he was trying not to let himself be happy. Perhaps he feels it would be a betrayal to those he lost."

Regina nodded, understanding that feeling. But she wasn't sure why Maleficent felt the need to share this story with her now. "Why are you telling me this?"

"Because I want to give you a better understanding of who our king is," Mal replied. "And that he isn't like Queen Snow White at all. He is working through his grief by punishing himself, not others."

"It still doesn't mean that if he continues to help me that he will then feel like I owe him or that he owns me," Regina protested.

Maleficent shook her head. "He is not like that."

Regina raised an eyebrow. "So if you said you wanted to leave tomorrow, he would let you?"

"Probably not due to the snow," she replied, motioning to the window. "But if I were to ask to be let go from service when it was safe to leave, he would give me my severance and let me go."

"Severance?" Regina asked, intrigued. "What's that?"

Mal tilted her head before chuckling. "While I know King Robin isn't like other royals, I'm still surprised to find out what we get that others don't."

She explained that the king gave a package to any servant who left to help them forge a new life outside the palace. "It usually contains some food for the road, new shoes and two months' wages. He also will give a letter attesting that the servant is a hard worker so that people can find other work."

"That's very kind of him," Regina replied, wondering if maybe she was judging the king too harshly.

Maybe she bore deeper scars from Snow White than she realized.

"You have more of a relationship with the king than I do," Mal continued. "I think if you talk to him about your concerns, he'll be able to help you."

"I'll keep that in mind," Regina replied. "Thank you."

Mal nodded before standing. "I need to get back to the kitchens. I'll see you later for the evening meal. Or will you be taking it with His Majesty again?"

"I honestly don't know," Regina said, knowing she had taken her evening meal with the king more often than not. "I wouldn't be surprised if I did. I think he likes the company."

"He always preferred to be around people. I don't think his self-isolation is good for him but it's not my place to tell him that," Mal said, sounding almost like she wanted Regina to convey that message to him.

But Regina didn't know if it was her place to tell him that either.

Mal left and Regina decided she didn't want to be alone with her thoughts – not just yet. Instead, she went to find where the king had taken her son. She wanted to spend a little more time with the man, get to know him better. Maybe she would find that Mal was right – he was as kind and generous as he seemed and she would enjoy working at the palace. Though if she was honest, she was not keen to be a servant again. Maybe she could find something else that fit her better.

She just wished she knew what it was.

Well, she had plenty of time to figure that out. She glanced out the window at the falling snow and knew she was going to be a guest of the king for a few more weeks at least. Maybe by the time the snow melted, she would figure out what she wanted to do.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: A Place to Belong

"I didn't hit it," Roland said, pouting. "I'm never going to hit it."

"You're going to hit it. You just need more practice. I can assure you that I didn't hit it all when I started out and I have a feeling your mother was the same way," Robin assured the boy, gathering up the stray arrows that failed to make the target.

He glanced over at Roland, who stared at him with wide eyes. "Really?"

Robin nodded, walking over to him and knelt in front of him. He placed his hand on his shoulder. "No one is good right away. Everyone who became very good at something did so by practicing and by failing over and over until they succeed – myself included."

"So I just have to keep trying?" Roland asked. "And then I'll get as good as you and Mama?"

"Absolutely," he replied, placing the arrows back in the quiver. "Do you want to try again now?"

Roland nodded, nocking an arrow into his bow. "How is my stance?" he asked Robin.

"It looks good," he said, gently tapping one of Roland's legs. "Just move this out a bit more. You'll have better balance."

"Okay," Roland said, doing as he instructed. He looked up at Robin. "Like this?"

Robin nodded. "Good. Now what do you do next?"

"I raise my bow and anchor my arrow," the boy said, doing just that as he prepared to fire the arrow.

"Correct," he replied. "And remember to keep both eyes open."

Roland started to nod but thought better of it. "Right. I need both eyes to focus and aim my arrow."

He did that before pulling the string back as he took a deep breath in. When he exhaled, he released the arrow and sent it flying. This time, it hit the outer rim of the target – a marked improvement.

"Good job!" Robin praised him, rubbing his back. "You're already getting better, see?"

Roland grinned at him, proud of himself. "I do! Thank you, King!"

"You're welcome, Roland. Why don't you shoot another arrow?" he suggested.

"I would love to see that," Regina said, entering the room with a bright smile on her face. Robin stood as she approached, bowing slightly. "Milady, it appears your son has your aptitude for archery."

"Well, they say the apple doesn't fall from the tree," she replied, running her fingers through his curls with a loving look.

Roland frowned. "What does that mean?"

"It means that children are often like their parents," Robin told him.

"Oh," Roland said before nodding. "I like it. Especially as I like apples!"

Both Robin and Regina chuckled before she stepped back. "Why don't you show me your archery skills?"

"Yes, let's show your mum what you've learned," Robin agreed, helping Roland with his stance again. He then stepped back and told him to fire when he was ready.

Roland took a deep breath and pulled back the string on the bow. Once again, he released as he exhaled and sent the arrow flying toward the target. It landed in the outer circle yet again, but a bit higher than his previous arrow, which was another sign of improvement, Robin noted as he and Regina applauded.

"Great job!" she said, rushing forward to hug him. He wrapped his arms and legs around her, holding her close as she kissed his cheek.

Hanging back, Robin felt his chest constrict as he thought how differently the scene before him could be. It could've been Marian hugging their son and peppering his face with kisses after his archery lesson. Robin would've then wrapped his arms around them both and maybe tickled his boy before they went to get a treat from the kitchens.

But it was not to be.

"King? Are you okay?" Roland asked, interrupting his thoughts. He looked up at Robin with concerned eyes.

Robin knelt, giving him a smile. "Yes, I am. I was just thinking about how proud I am of how far you've already come."

The boy beamed and Regina approached, placing her hand on his shoulder. "I think such great shooting deserves a treat. Why don't we go see what we can find in the kitchens?"

"Do you want to come too, King?" Roland asked, holding out his hand.

Robin glanced up at Regina, who gave him a soft smile. "You're more than welcome to join us to celebrate. You are the one who is teaching him."

"Well, who am I to turn such a sweet invitation and a compelling argument?" Robin asked, his chest constricting more at how Regina had the same idea for her son as he had the son he never got to raise.

He didn't want to read too much into it. That was a road he already knew would not end well.

Regina tilted her head, frowning. "Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yes," he assured her. He motioned to the door. "Let's go get our little archer his treat."

She nodded, walking with him out of the training room. It was only halfway to the kitchen that Robin realized he had said "our little archer" rather than "your little archer."

Was he already in too deep?

They arrived at the kitchens and the servants there immediately began to fuss over Roland. He basked in their attention and proudly informed him that he shot an arrow at a target that day. Everyone agreed that deserved a treat and a little cake drizzled with honey was presented to him. Roland thanked them and happily bit into it, honey covering his face and dribbling down his chin.

Regina asked a servant for a towel and the woman nodded as she set down a plate of pastries. She retreated as another servant brought them goblets, setting them down on the table. Robin reached for one and held it up. "I say a toast is in order," he said.

"I agree," Regina replied, handing Roland a goblet before picking one up herself. "Do you want to do the honors?"

Robin smiled, nodding. He turned to Roland. "To Roland, on his first steps to becoming the best archer in the land."

"Cheers!" Regina chorused. She tapped her goblet with Robin's before turning to tap Roland's.

Roland then turned to Robin, holding out his goblet. He smiled widely as he said: "Cheers, King!"

"Cheers, Roland," Robin replied with a chuckle, tapping his goblet against the boy's. "Now, don't forget to take a sip."

The boy frowned. "Why?"

"It's to ensure that whoever you toasted has good luck," he replied. "And because we toasted you, we want to make sure you have luck."

Roland's eyes lit up and he eagerly drank his juice. He set it down and grinned. "Now I'll have all the luck!"

"Yes, you will," Regina assured her son, running her fingers through his hair. "You'll also have a bath too."

He scrunched up his nose. "Do I have to?"

She nodded. "You're covered in honey."

"If you don't take a bath, you'll be sticking to everything in the palace," Robin added.

Roland sighed, accepting his fate. "Fine."

Smiling, Robin glanced over at Regina. She gave him a grin before mouthing thank you to him. He nodded and they turned back to their treats. Robin knew he was playing a dangerous game in getting closer to Regina and Roland but he couldn't deny the pull he felt toward them. It was almost as if they were meant to be a family.

No, he chided himself. Don't go that path. You had a family. You lost them. Regina and Roland are not replacements for them.

Regina frowned. "Your Majesty? Is something wrong?"

"No," he replied. "I guess I'm just tired."

"Do you need a nap?" Roland asked him.

Robin chuckled, shaking his head. "No, but I will probably have my evening meal early so I can go to bed early."

"Oh," Regina said. "You're going to dine by yourself?"

That surprised him – she had never seemed willing to dine with him before and so he figured she was confirming for another reason. "Yes. You and Roland can have some quality time without me."

She didn't smile or turn to Roland to happily tell him they would have each other that night. Instead, she tilted her head. "I see."

Confusion filled Robin. He didn't understand why she seemed so disappointed. But he sensed it was something she wouldn't talk about in front of Roland, so he held his tongue for now. Perhaps he could find the truth some other way.

They soon finished their treats and Regina looked over her sticky son with a frown. "Okay, I think it's time for that bath now."

Roland groaned. "Now?"

"Yes," she told him. "Now."

He looked at Robin, who put his hands up. "Your mother is queen on this matter as far as I'm concerned. I cannot overrule her, even if I wanted to. But I agree with her. It's bath time."

"Fine," Roland sighed. "I'll take my bath now."

"Good," his mother said, standing. She motioned for him to come with her before turning to Robin. "Have a good night, Your Majesty."

Roland nodded, waving to him. "Goodnight, King."

"Goodnight, Roland," he told the boy. "Pleasant dreams."

"Roland, can you just wait for me outside for a moment?" Regina asked him. He nodded and headed outside.

She turned to Robin, lowering her voice. "I would like to talk to you about mine and Roland's future. Are you free tomorrow?"

That surprised him and he felt his stomach tighten as he nodded. "Of course. Perhaps we could have the noon meal together?"

"I would like that," she replied, bowing her head. "Thank you."

He watched as she started to walk away before calling out: "Have a good night, Regina."

She paused, looking back at him with a soft smile. "You too, Your Majesty."

Once she left, he took a deep breath and headed back to his room. John greeted him, saying the evening meal would be served soon. Robin thanked him before saying: "I'll be having the noon meal tomorrow with Regina, so please clear my schedule for then."

"Yes, Your Majesty," John replied with a smug smile.

Robin knew what he was thinking and he shot John an annoyed look. "She wants to discuss her future with me."

John's eyebrows went up and Robin realized how that sounded. He shook his head. "Not like that."

"If you insist," John replied, sounding unconvinced. "I'll make certain your schedule is clear around the noon meal."

"Thank you," Robin replied. "Please let me know when my food is brought up."

John nodded before saying: "It won't be disrespectful to Queen Marian if you like Regina, you know."

Robin paused, frowning as he glared at John. "I respect her and would be honored to consider her a friend. Nothing more."

"Alright," John replied. "Just…don't wall yourself off. You have a big heart, Robin. There's room for Queen Marian, your son, Roland and Regina. Trust me."

John left the room before Robin could respond. He rubbed the back of his head as he considered that statement. Was his heart truly big enough for all of them? Probably – many people in his life had told him he had a big heart. So that likely was not the issue.

The issue was if his heart was strong enough to risk another loss like the one he had suffered with Marian and their son. And he didn't think it was. It was safer for him to keep his distance.

Safer to be alone.

Regina left Roland with Mal the following afternoon, heading toward the king's private chambers. Her stomach twisted with each step until it was all knotted as she reached the door to his study. Taking a deep breath, she raised her hand and knocked the door.

A burly dark-haired man answered and bowed. "Lady Regina. Please come in."

"You don't have to call me 'lady,'" she told him. "Just Regina will suffice."

"If you insist," he replied, holding out his hand. "I am John, the king's secretary."

She shook his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Oh, no. The pleasure is all mine," he replied with a grin. "I've been very intrigued to meet the special woman Robin would brave a snowstorm to save and then whose son he has taken a liking to."

"Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you," she said, feeling a bit embarrassed. "It's just me instead."

He tilted his head, laughing to himself. "You're a lot like him, I see."

She frowned. "What do you mean? I'm a bandit and he's a king."

"I think you two are a lot more than just those titles," John replied, leading her to another room. He then straightened up. "Your Majesty, Lady Regina is here."

Regina walked around John, finding Robin standing at a small table that was already set. A covered dish sat between two place settings and she briefly wondered which one was hers until Robin pulled out a chair for her. He gave a little bow. "Milady."

She took the seat and he pushed it in for her as she thanked him. He took the seat across from her as John stepped forward with a carafe. "Wine?" he asked.

"Yes, please," she replied, watching as he poured some wine into her goblet. He did the same for Robin before stepping back.

John looked between them. "Do you need anything else?"

"I think I'm good," Regina said, watching Robin. He nodded, dismissing John. The other man bowed and left the room.

Robin leaned forward, uncovering the dish to reveal two small birds sitting amongst stuffing and vegetables. "Have you ever tried Sherwoodian hens?" he asked her.

"No," she replied, her stomach rumbling as she looked over the birds. "We served them at the Mist Haven court but servants were never allowed to eat them."

He picked one up and placed it on her plate. "Well, I hope you enjoy it."

"Thank you," she replied, scooping some vegetables onto her plate. "And thank you for meeting with me."

"Well, I'll admit I'm intrigued," he said, leaning back in his chair. "Do you want to eat or discuss first?"

She paused, considering both options. When her stomach growled, though, her decision was made. "I guess eat," she replied sheepishly.

He nodded, raising his goblet. "To a good meal."

"To a good meal," she agreed, raising her own goblet. They then sipped the wine John had poured for them before she turned to her meal, cutting into her Sherwoodian hen and taking her first bite.

She chewed it tentatively before letting out a soft moan at how savory and tender it was. Regina swallowed and sat back. "No wonder everyone loves the hen," she said.

He chuckled. "It feels very decadent, doesn't it?"

"Yes," she replied. "What is it seasoned with?"

"I honestly don't know," he said, leaning back in his chair as he thought it over. "You would have to ask the cooks in the kitchen."

She tried not to roll her eyes. While Robin wasn't like the other royals and nobles she had grown up around, there were still many ways in which he was. "I'll do that. Thank you," she said.

He chuckled. "You didn't hide that eyeroll well."

"Damn," she muttered, grimacing. "Sorry."

"That's alright," he said. "I probably sounded very spoiled there, didn't I?"

She paused before saying: "I wouldn't say very."

"I guess that's something," he replied, taking another bite of his hen. "What was it like being raised as a servant?"

"Well, I guess it was better than growing up a beggar on the streets," she said with a shrug. "I had a bed, at least one warm meal, clothes and shoes."

He set down his fork and knife, looking at her. "Were your parents also servants at the palace?"

She shook her head, the hen turning to ash in her mouth. Taking a sip of wine, she washed it down her throat before replying: "I was orphaned, left in a basket by the palace gates. A guard rescued me. Queen Eva took pity on me and started to raise me as her own before she had the princess. Then I was given to an older woman to be trained as the princess' handmaiden."

"So you do not know who your parents were?" he asked her.

"No," she replied. "Whoever left me didn't even leave a note. I'm probably lucky they left me by the palace and didn't just abandon me in the woods."

He frowned. "I cannot imagine abandoning a small babe like that."

"There were a few moments after I lost Daniel that I considered leaving Roland with people who could give him a better and more stable life," she admitted softly, recalling how lost and helpless she felt as she adjusted to motherhood. "But then I would look down at him and see how he looked at me, and I knew I couldn't just leave him. So I vowed to give him that better and more stable life myself."

Robin paused for a few moments before nodding. "And is that what you want to discuss with me now?"

"Yes," she said, taking another bite of her hen before continuing. "I've been talking with Mal and it seems you are very generous to your servants here."

"I suppose so," he replied, sounding like he doubted her statement. He probably felt he could do more.

She raised an eyebrow. "Trust me, you are. Everyone praised how good King Leopold and Queen Eva were but they would never have thought to give servants money and supplies when they want to leave. Hell, they ever would've considered that servants would want to leave and work elsewhere."

"They would expect servants to want to work in the same job until they died?" Robin asked, his eyes widening in surprise.

"That's what happens with most servants," she told him. "Do you not have servants who have been here all of their lives?"

He paused before nodding. "We do. But we do have a good number of servants who ultimately choose to move on."

"Which is still strange," Regina replied. "Honestly, a job in the palace is the steadiest work you can find in Mist Haven."

"I would've thought it would be on the docks or farming," he said.

She shook her head as she swallowed another bite of food. "Not everyone can afford the land to farm and there are many things that could affect work on the docks, from storms to wars to poor fish yields."

He thought it over and nodded. "That is true."

"As long as there isn't a war, a coup or a bloodthirsty ruler, you're rather secure at the palace," Regina continued.

"Well, I've learned something," he replied, smiling. He took a sip from his goblet, studying her. "Are you here to ask me for a job in the palace?"

She nodded. "I am."

"I thought you didn't want to be trapped here," he replied, no judgment in his tone. It sounded as if he was only curious about her change in opinion.

"After spending some time here and talking with Mal, I've come to see that maybe this wouldn't be much of a cage after all," she replied. "And my skill sets are either as a servant or as a bandit. I doubt you want me making a living doing the latter in your country."

He chuckled, nodding. "That is true. But would you be okay with being a servant again?"

She shrugged. "I think I would be okay being a servant here."

"That doesn't sound like a ringing endorsement of the job or of me," he told her, studying her once again.

"No, I suppose not," she replied. "But what else can I do?"

He leaned back, stroking his chin. "I need to think about it but I believe we can find you a job here in my court that doesn't require you to return to servitude."

That surprised her. "Like what?"

"I'm not entirely sure yet," he admitted. "But I will think of something."

"You would do that for me?" she asked, surprised. She wasn't used to someone being nice to her without an ulterior motive. "Why?"

He paused for a moment before answering: "I like you. And I adore Roland."

"He adores you too," she said, wondering if they bonded so well because he was a father who lost his son and Roland was a son who lost a father.

She still wasn't sure how she felt about all of that but didn't think it appropriate to bring it up with him just yet.

Robin smiled. "I am glad to hear that."

"And we both continue to be grateful for your hospitality and generosity," she continued. "I am especially grateful that I've been able to give Roland a sense of stability and security for the first time in his life."

"I am happy to hear that," he replied. "And I hope you feel safe here."

She nodded. "I do. I don't think I've ever slept so soundly knowing Queen Snow can't get us and that we're both fed."

"Good," he said, looking pleased. "You will always be safe. I promise you and Roland that."

"Thank you," she replied, knowing he meant it.

And despite everything in the past making her head tell her not to do it, her heart told her that she could trust him.

She and Roland were in good hands.

Sleep eluded Robin that night.

He eventually gave up trying and slipped from his bed, changing into a simple linen tunic and a pair of breeches. After pulling on some boots, he padded through his quiet palace until he got to the armory. Retrieving his bow and arrows, Robin hoped some target practice would tire him out and let him get some sleep at last.

When he got to the target area, he was surprised to find someone was already there. He paused, watching Regina fire arrow after arrow with ease. Each hit the target, landing squarely in the bullseye.

It was very impressive.

And in that moment, he knew what role she could play in his palace.

When she fired all her arrows, he clapped. She jumped, whirling around in a defensive stance. He held up his hands. "Peace, milady. It is only me."

She relaxed a bit. "Sorry. You startled me. I didn't think anyone else would come here this late."

"I suppose we both had the same problem and the same remedy," he said, motioning to his own bow.

"Clearly," she replied, looking a bit nervous. "I can clear out if you want. It is your palace after all."

He shook his head, walking closer to her. "You can stay. There's plenty of room for both of us."

"Maybe you could give me some pointers," she said. "You know, since you are the better archer."

"Not by much. I could probably get some pointers from you," he replied.

She gave him a look. "Are you trying to flatter me, Your Majesty?"

"Not at all," he said, wishing she felt more secure with herself to accept compliments without suspecting ulterior motives.

"Earnestness from a royal is still so strange," she replied, shaking her head as she nocked another arrow.

Thinking of her experiences with Queen Snow, he nodded. "I suppose it is."

"Anyway," she said, taking her mark. "You ready for a little friendly competition?"

"I am," he said, taking his own mark as he nocked an arrow. "Any rules?"

She paused for a moment before shrugging. "Shoot until you run out of arrows?"

"Sounds good to me," he replied, raising his bow. "On your count."

Regina counted to three and they fired their first arrow. They released arrow after arrow, both smoothly reloading without much problem. Silence reigned throughout the room, only broken by the dull thuds of each arrow as it found its mark.

When he ran out of arrows, he lowered his bow and turned to Regina. She stood there with her arms crossed, tapping her foot. "I've been waiting for you to finish."

"My apologies," he said, bowing slightly. "Shall we see how we did?"

She nodded and they approached their targets. This time, all their arrows had hit the bullseye. "Dead even," she noted.

"Agreed," he replied.

"So, tiebreaker?" she asked.

He stroked his chin as an idea came to him. "How are you at sword fighting?"

She seemed surprised by his question and frowned. "Not as good as I am at my bow. Daniel wasn't able to finish training me on it when…well…you know."

"Yes, I do," he said, motioning for her to head back into the armory. "But let's see what you remember."

They returned to the armory and he found a sword he believed would suit her, holding it out to her. "How does this feel?"

"It feels good," she said, testing it with a few swishes of the blade.

He took his preferred blade and gave it a test as well. Pleased, he nodded and motioned to another room. "We can spar in there."

"Why do you want to spar anyway?" she asked, narrowing her eyes slightly.

"I want to evaluate your skills," he told her honestly. "I think I may have a good job for you here in the palace and I want to be sure."

Her eyes now widened. "A job? Involving me being able to fight?"

Robin nodded, motioning to the door again. "Do you trust me?"

"I…" She paused, swallowing before nodding. "I do."

Joy spread through him as he smiled. "Good. Then head into the next room, please, and let's see how you are with a sword."

She headed into the room and took her place in the center of the ring. Regina raised her sword. "Alright. Let's see what you can do, Your Majesty," she told him.

"I won't go easy on you," he replied, taking his usual stance for sparring.

"Good," she said. "I don't want you to."

Robin grinned before lunging at her. She blocked him and easily fended him off. He recoiled, pleased. "Very good."

"Do your worst," she told him. "I can handle it."

"Well, we'll see," he replied, moving toward her again to continue their sparring session.

Their blades clashed, the clang of the metal against metal mingling with their deep breathing as they moved around each other. It felt like some ancient dance, the two following their parts as if they had always been performing them. Robin watched her move with an agility that amazed him, her lithe body twisting and straightening out again as she almost glided across the room.

For a moment, he felt as if he were in the presence of some magical being, like a fairy.

Or a goddess.

Well, a warrior goddess.

She came toward him, her moves sharp and quick. He had to think fast to dodge or block her blows while taking quick steps, swerving and veering where necessarily. Regina's sword was almost a blur and it became difficult to follow it. Dizzy, his left foot hit his right foot and he wobbled. Having to choose between falling or fending off Regina, he chose the latter and blocked a blow just before his back hit the ground, knocking the wind from him.

Regina stood over him, her sword pointed at his throat. "Do you yield?"

"Yes," he replied, releasing his sword and letting it fall to the floor. He held up his hands to show he was unarmed. "I yield."

She withdrew, stepping away from him and sheathing her sword. Regina breathed heavily and he could see beats of sweat dripping down her face as he reached up to wipe sweat from his own brow. Both had had quite the workout.

"Do you need help up?" Regina asked, stepping closer again and extending her hand to him.

He nodded, accepting her hand as he climbed to his feet. "Thank you, milady. And may I say that your skills with a sword are exceptional."

"Thank you," she said, looking awestruck. "But for a moment, I swore I was someone else."

"Well, I think I know where you belong at my court," he replied, excited at what he had to offer her.

She tilted her head. "You have? Where is it?"

"Here," he said, extending his arms. "I want you to help train my guards."

"What?" she asked, her eyes widening as her mouth dropped open.

Excitement filled Robin as he nodded. "Yes. I think you would be able to help them become even better."

She bit her lip. "Will they listen to me? Will they respect me even though I am a woman?"

"Honestly, I'm not sure," he admitted, knowing most people in Sherwood did not expect women to be warriors. "But it will be made clear that they either respect you or leave. And I will start letting women join as well."

"You will?" she asked, looking surprised but pleased.

He smiled. "Yes. There really is no reason not to let them in and I'm sure there are just as many as woman who are as skilled as you. We will be better protected for it."

"Then I will be honored to help train them," she said. She looked hesitant for a moment before leaning closer and kissing his cheek. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," he replied, trying to ignore how his skin tingled where her lips touched. He looked into her brown eyes and forgot how to breath for a moment, the air around them feeling charged.

Regina then pulled back, breaking the moment. She ran her fingers through her hair before smiling. "I think I can sleep now. You?"

"Yes," he said, having forgotten why he was sparring with Regina in the first place. "Can I walk you back to your room?"

He expected her to refuse but to his surprise, she nodded. "Thank you."

Robin took her sword and placed it back. She then went to retrieve her bow and he stopped her. "Would you like to keep it here with mine?"

She bit her lip as she looked down at her bow. He knew she probably was still wary of letting her main means of defense out of her sight and he said: "It's alright if you don't. It's up to you."

"Thank you," she said softly. She then held out her bow. "But it's probably safer here."

He took it from her and placed it with his own. "There. Only you and I will have access to these two."

"Good," she replied. "Though fair warning, I still have a knife."

Robin chuckled. "I have no intentions of harming you or Roland in the middle of the night. And while I hope no one else will while you are under my roof, I am glad you have protection."

"Me too," she said. She then leaned closer. "Though I do feel safe here."

Joy spread through him. "I'm glad."

He held out his arm. "Shall we, milady?"

"Yes," she said, taking his arm. "Thank you."

Robin escorted her from the armory and through the quiet palace back to her room. They paused at her door and he bowed to her. "I hope you have a good night's rest," he told her.

She gave him a small smile. "Thank you. I hope you do too."

He watched as she slipped inside her room before Robin continued back to his chambers, feeling lighter than he had all day. They had found a way for Regina and Roland to stay while also improving his country at the same time. Everything was going well.

Which meant the universe would soon kick him in the teeth, like it always did when things were going well for him and he was happy.

Robin entered his chambers and looked up at the wedding portrait of Marian and him. He sighed, running his hand through his hair as he remembered to keep his distance from Regina and Roland. They would be safer that way.

All of them.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: Dreams and Desires

Regina and Roland settled into the palace, making it their permanent home. She began training some of the guards right away and there was some resistance from the men. They did not think they could learn anything from a woman until she proceeded to beat them all in archery. Regina also managed to best half of them with a sword, earning their respect. By the time spring rolled around, she was accepted as a trainer.

With winter's snows thawing, Robin was able to send out the decree that women would now be permitted to join royal guards. As the weather warmed and flowers began to bloom, the first female recruits arrived at the palace for training. Regina greeted them and was pleased – they would all make fine guards. She began training them immediately and was happy to see most of the other guards accept them. There were a few who still disapproved but knew better than to insult the king's decision.

She just hoped Robin was pleased with her work when it came time to inspect his newest guards.

Her relationship with the king was an interesting one. Both seemed to agree to remain cordial and to keep some distance between each other – kings after all did not befriend their guards, which Regina technically now was. And they both had been hurt in the past, he when he lost his wife and she when Snow turned on her. It only made sense that they didn't want to develop a close bond as both knew how badly it could end.

That, though, didn't extend to Roland and Regina was grateful for the king's presence in her son's life. Robin arranged for Roland to attend lessons with the sons and daughters of other lords and ladies of the court. While Regina had done her best to try to teach her son his letters, Roland really flourished with access to books and a steady teacher. He was intelligent and inquisitive – both things he got from her – and so quickly excelled. Both Regina and Robin were very proud and praised him often.

Robin continued to teach Roland archery, his lessons reinforced by Regina. Sometimes the three of them would shoot together, though those often became friendly competitions between Regina and Robin while Roland cheered them on. The king also started to take Roland outside as the weather warmed and taught him more about the plants, flowers and trees that surrounded the palace.

"I wouldn't expect a royal to know so much about nature," she commented one afternoon when she went to retrieve Roland for the evening meal.

"I didn't like to spend a lot of time indoors when I was a boy," he admitted. "I would always escape so the royal gardener took me under his wing, taught me everything I know."

She smiled as she imagined Robin at Roland's age, escaping from the castle and hanging on every word as the gardener showed him so many amazing plants and flowers. "That sounds sweet," she said.

"Probably," he replied. "I think my parents were just glad that it kept me out of trouble though I'm certain my nanny did not like how dirty I came back each evening."

"Children get dirty," she said, motioning to her own son as he dug around the dirt. "I've long accepted that."

He chuckled. "True, but there are those who believe princes shouldn't play in mud. My nanny was one of those. Thankfully, my parents weren't."

"Princes are children too," she agreed, surprised. He hadn't mentioned his parents much in the months she had spent with him. "What were your parents like?"

"They were kind and fair," he replied. "I try to emulate them now that I'm king."

She nodded, not surprised that it was just in Robin's nature to be such a kind and compassionate king. "I am certain they would be proud of you if they could see you."

He ducked his head, a tic she recognized he did when he felt he didn't deserve a compliment. "You are kind to say so."

"You are allergic to praise, aren't you?" she asked, teasing him slightly.

"I could say the same about you," he replied. "Every time I praise the work you've done with my guards, you keep deflecting it to them."

She shrugged, feeling her face heat up. "They are the ones doing the hard work. It's only fair."

"No matter how good they already were or how hard they work, they still wouldn't be as successful if they didn't have a good teacher," he told her. "And you are a great teacher."

"You are too kind," she replied.

He leaned closer to her. "See? You're just as allergic as me."

She knew he had a point and she sighed. "Fine. Maybe I am."

"It's hard to be positive about yourself, isn't it?" he asked, straightening up again.

"Yes," she agreed. "I suppose it is. And I suppose I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. Not certain what your deal is."

He shrugged. "Maybe I was over praised for everything I did as a child and now I don't know if people are truly complimenting me or appeasing me because I am the king."

"Oh," she replied, thinking of all the people who praised Snow White just for breathing. "That's a very good reason."

Roland raced up to them, a big smile on his face and one of his hands behind his back. "I have a surprise for you, Mama."

She raised an eyebrow, wondering how dirty or wriggly this gift was. "You do? What is it?"

"Ta da!" He pulled out his hand to reveal a beautiful rose. "It's for you. The gardener says it is the first rose of the year."

"That's a very special rose then," Robin said, smiling softly as Regina took the flower from her son.

She admired the beautiful scent coming from the rose before looking up at Robin. "How so?"

"They say who ever gets the first rose of the season will be blessed with good fortune and love throughout the year," he replied.

Roland nodded. "That's what the gardener said and why I wanted to give it to you."

Touched, Regina pulled him in for a hug and held him closely. "Thank you so much, sweetheart."

"I love you, Mama," he said, holding onto her tightly.

"I love to you, too," she replied, kissing the side of his head. She then straightened up, running her fingers through his hair. "But I think you need a bath after a day in the dirt."

He groaned. "I don't want to take a bath. Do I have to?"

Robin leaned down to look Roland in the eyes. "I am going to take a bath myself."

"You are?" Roland asked, looking uncertain now. He absolutely adored Robin and Regina hoped that he would want to emulate the king right now in taking a bath. It would certainly make things easier for her.

"I am," Robin said, nodding. "I actually quite like baths."

Roland's eyes grew even bigger. "You do?"

The king nodded. "I do."

"Then I'm gonna take a bath too!" Roland declared, much to Regina's relief. He took her hand and gave it a tug. "Come on, Mama. Let's go take a bath."

She laughed, digging her heels in. "What do you say to His Majesty?"

"Oh, right." Roland let go of her hand and lunging forward, hugging Robin. "Thank you, King."

Robin hugged him back. "You're welcome, Roland. I'll see you tomorrow."

He released Roland, who took Regina's hand. They walked back toward the castle, Roland bouncing as he did so. She glanced back over her shoulder, noticing the king still watching them with a soft smile on his face. It made her stomach flip in a way she was not ready for and she looked forward, forcing that feeling to go away.

It would only lead down a road that was too dangerous to even consider traveling.

Robin sank into the warm water of the baths. The palace had been built by natural springs and the baths were a favorite of the members of court as the water held healing properties. Any aches or pains faded after a few minutes in the waters.

It was absolutely heaven.

He closed his eyes and let the water lap at his body, sore after a few hours of archery. Robin had had a tense meeting with his advisors that morning and he needed to work off his frustration afterward when they had failed to come to an agreement. And he doubted they would ever come to an agreement as it dealt with the one subject he would not be moved on.

An alliance with Mist Haven.

Robin didn't know why they kept pushing such an alliance as it would never be beneficial to Mist Haven. Sherwood had the better markets, had better products and had the better army. The only thing Mist Haven could provide was a port to give them access to ocean trading routes but he felt Arendelle was the better option for that. At least Arendelle had other products that Sherwood could use and an army of equal stature to theirs. That country also had experienced a long period of peace, which also mattered as it meant it was unlikely that Sherwood would be pulled into any conflict in the short term. Unlike with Mist Haven, where it was likely any alliance with Queen Snow would get them involved in her personal vendetta against Regina and Roland.

Who, of course, had sanctuary within his walls and so he imagined any alliance would require him to turn them over to Queen Snow White. And that was going to happen over his dead body.

Sighing, he sank further in the water. Robin tried to foster a collaborative atmosphere with his advisors, wanting them to share their honest opinions and not just tell him what he wanted to hear. He took all their advice and opinions into consideration before making a decision, even if it was the decision he wouldn't have made on his own. Now, though, he was coming close to something he had never done before – issuing a royal command forbidding them from pursuing any alliances with Mist Haven or ever mentioning it again. He hoped he didn't have to come to that point, feeling it would do far more harm than good, but he would do so if he had no other choice.

Feeling sleep tugging at him, Robin decided it was time to get out of the bath and head to bed. After all, he did not want to be the king who accidentally drowned in his own baths. That certainly would be a horrible legacy to leave behind. So without opening his eyes just yet, he reached back and started to push himself out of the water.

"Oh!"

He opened his eyes to find Regina standing at the entrance to the baths, clad only in a robe and clutching a towel. She had averted her gaze and even in the dim lighting, he could see a pink tinge form on her cheeks as she said: "My apologies, Your Majesty. I did not know the baths were occupied."

Realizing that enough of him was no longer submerged, Robin had to make a choice – did he sink back down in the waters or quickly grab a towel. He glanced to where it was and tried to figure out how fast he could be.

"I can leave if you want," Regina said, starting to back out of the room. "I did not mean to intrude."

"Regina, wait," he replied, darting to the bench and grabbing his towel. He wrapped it around his midsection as he added: "You are not intruding. Everyone is welcome to use the baths and no one is guaranteed privacy."

She swallowed, still unable to look at him. "Oh. Well, I can always just go back to my room and come back another day."

He frowned, itching to reach out to her but fearing it would chase her away. Robin also saw something more than embarrassment in her features and he tilted his head as his brows knitted together. "Are you hurt?"

"Not hurt," she said, wincing. "We had an intense training session today and my body may be feeling it."

"Then you should use the bath. It will certainly help with that," Robin said, stepping aside as he put on his own robe. "I shall take my leave. Goodnight, milady."

She dropped into curtsy, even though she was only in a robe. "Goodnight, Your Majesty."

He nodded, walking past her. Stopping just outside the entrance, he turned back to her. "You can call me Robin," he told her.

Regina looked up, her brown eyes wide. He smiled at her before walking away, hoping she enjoyed her bath and that maybe, she wouldn't be so shy around him in the future. After a few months, he had hoped she would see him as more of a friend than the king.

Of course, that didn't end well for her the last time she did that.

He returned to his rooms and found John waiting for him. "Did you enjoy your bath?" he asked Robin.

"I did," Robin replied, removing the towel from under his robe and laying it over a nearby chair. "It was just what I needed after this afternoon's meeting."

"Good," John said. He motioned to the bedclothes laid out on Robin's bed. "Do you need help dressing, milord?"

Robin shook his head. "I should be fine, thank you. Have a good evening, John."

John bowed. "Thank you, Robin. Have a good night."

Once he was alone, Robin shed his robe and put on the bedclothes left for him. He then poured a glass of whiskey before sitting down in front of his fire. Robin sipped at it as he relaxed, closing his eyes. He let himself drift off, lulled into a state between waking and sleeping by the warmth of the fire and the silence that surrounded him.

"What are you doing over there?" a familiar voice asked. "Come to bed. We're waiting for you."

Robin stood from his chair and turned to his bed, smiling when he saw Marian and their son laying there. The boy was sound asleep and faced away from Robin, curled against his mother. Marian smiled back, patting his spot in the bed. "It's much warmer here."

He walked toward the bed and laid down, blowing out the candle so that the fire in the hearth was their only light. Lying on his side, he stared into Marian's beautiful brown eyes. She tilted her head though she continued to smile. "What?"

"Nothing," he said, admiring her. "I miss you."

"Miss me?" she asked, laughing. "I've been right here. You only saw me a few hours ago."

A pang of sadness hurt his heart as he said: "It's felt like much longer."

She rolled her eyes before smiling fondly at him. "You are such a romantic, Robin. I am so lucky to be your wife."

"I am the lucky one," he told her, teaching out and taking her hand. He pressed a kiss to it.

The little figure between them squirmed and Robin glanced down, watching their son roll over to face. Surprise filled him. Usually in these dreams – and he was so aware he was dreaming that it was painful – his son's face was just a blur. But now as he watched the sleeping child, he looked like Roland.

He looked back up, expecting to find Marian had turned into Regina but his wife was the one still lying there. She smiled. "He's beautiful, isn't he?"

"Yes," he said, feeling a bit confused. Why was Roland lying there between him and Marian with no sign of Regina?

"Robin?" Marian asked, frowning. "What's wrong?"

He shook his head, deciding to just let the dream unfold before he woke up and had to return to a world without her. "Nothing."

She smiled, reaching out to cup his cheek. "I love you. And I am always with you and Roland. Never forget that."

"I won't," he promised, taking her hand and placing her hand to his chest. He leaned forward to kiss her.

Robin jolted up, his heart hammering in his chest as adrenaline flooded his veins. His hands gripped onto the armrests of his chair, keeping him from falling onto the floor. Looking around, he found that he was alone in his chambers yet again. No Marian in bed waiting for him and Roland was no doubt already in bed cuddling with his real mother, Regina.

Even though he knew it was a dream, he still felt unnerved by it. Why did he dream that Roland was his and Marian's? And why did it feel so right?

He sighed, downing the rest of his whiskey. "You're tired, old man. Go to bed," he told himself, setting his glass down to be cleaned in the morning. Robin stood, stretching, and then climbed into bed – alone yet again. But once he doused the candles and closed his eyes, he was not alone for long.

This time, though, he was joined by Regina rather than Marian.

"You wanted to see me?" Regina asked, standing in the doorway to the royal counsel room. She clasped her hands behind her back, waiting for the king to beckon her forward as her stomach twisted into knots.

It had been a few days since she had accidentally walked in on him while he was in the bath. Though she had tried to avert her eyes as quickly as possible, she had still gotten a good glimpse of his naked form. And she had to admit that for a royal, he was in very good shape. His chest and arms had been toned with not as much fat as one expected from the noble class. She had felt heat flood through her body and cheek as she imagined that body pressed against hers for a moment before pushing it down again. But then it had re-emerged at night, though in images that seemed more like memories than dreams.

And that had unnerved her more than the actual dreams or the run-in itself.

Unsure what the dreams meant and hating how off-kilter she felt due to them, Regina had avoided Robin until she felt she could meet his eyes. She asked Mal to drop off and pick up Roland from his daily outings with the king and had her meals with her son in their rooms. The odd feeling she got whenever she thought of King Robin hadn't yet passed but it seemed she couldn't avoid him forever.

Especially when he summoned her. She knew she couldn't turn down the king's summons, no matter how kind and understanding he was.

King Robin looked up from the documents he was studying, his hands braced on the table as he stood hunched over it. His blue eyes lit up when he saw her and he smiled, making her stomach flip and her heart skip a beat. Regina's mind flashed to a dream where he looked at her like that before his expression changed, his eyes filling with desire and something she dared not name.

"Thank you for coming," he said. "I have need of your advice."

"My advice?" she asked, surprised.

He nodded, beckoning her closer. "I need your knowledge of the forests and perhaps some of your bandit knowledge."

She stepped up to the table, intrigued. "You do? Why?"

"With the snow melted, our merchants have started traveling the trade routes again," he explained. "There seems to be a band of highwaymen attacking them when they come close to the Mist Haven border. The rogues disappear into the forest and it is difficult to find them."

"Where exactly have they been striking?" she asked, intrigued. She stepped closer to the map, looking it over.

He pointed to the border between Mist Haven and Sherwood, the area where she had crossed with Roland back during the storm. It felt like a lifetime ago rather than just a few months.

"Are you familiar with this area?" he asked her.

"Barely," she admitted. "I had only just arrived when that storm hit. I honestly had no clue where I was nor that I had entered Sherwood in my quest for shelter from the cold and snow."

Robin frowned, taking in her words as he rubbed his chin. "Do you think the bandits know they are crossing into Sherwood or do they think they are attacking Mist Haven merchants?"

She considered the question, unsure how to answer. "It is possible. Are they flying any emblems of Sherwood?"

"I do not know," he replied. "I shall find out."

"Good. I think that will tell us a lot more – if they are attacking Sherwoodians in particular or if they are just attacking anyone who passes through that area," Regina replied.

Robin frowned. "Is there really a difference?"

She chuckled, nodding. "Someone who is a bandit just to survive, like I was, isn't going to care who they hit as long as they can get something from them. But if they have a particular goal, say inciting a war between you and Mist Haven, then they are going to be specific in who they target."

"You think Mist Haven would want to provoke a war with us?" he asked, leaning against the table again to look over the map once more.

"Maybe, but I hope not. It wouldn't end well for them," she replied. "Maybe Sherwoodians are trying to provoke a war by pretending to be from Mist Haven? Or maybe some other actor who hopes to swoop in while you and Mist Haven are at each other's throats. So many options."

He chuckled, looking up at her. "You have a tactician's mind."

"Well, you have to learn to figure out everyone's motive when trusting the wrong person can mean death for you and your son," she pointed out. "And you have to be careful when you rob someone. The wrong person could mean more than running for your life."

"You might be better at this than my generals," he told her. "Maybe you should join my council."

Surprise filled her and she gaped at him. "Certainly you jest."

He shook his head before frowning. "Why would you assume that?"

"I am nobody," she replied, knowing he had to understand how it worked. Orphans raised to be servants and then forced to become bandits did not advise kings.

"You are hardly nobody," he told her, giving her an intense look that ignited something deep inside her that she hadn't felt in years.

She swallowed. "But I am. I'm not of noble birth and I'm not as educated as your other advisors."

"Not in the traditional sense," he replied, "but you have something they don't. Experience."

"You're pretty determined to get me onto your council," she noted, tilting her head as she studied him.

He nodded. "I am. I think you will make a great addition to it."

"What if the other advisors don't think so?" she asked him, knowing that his council would not appreciate a servant turned bandit turned instructor joining their ranks.

"Well, it's ultimately my decision," he replied. "If anyone is giving you a hard time, let me know. I'll be happy to have more than a conversation with them."

He balled his hand into a fist, which surprised but impressed her. It seemed Robin wasn't afraid to get physical if needed. She smirked as she said: "Well, let's hope it doesn't come to that."

"I'm certain it won't," he replied. "My advisors know not to test me. Well, most of the time."

"This sounds like it's going to be interesting," she said.

He grinned. "So you're saying yes?"

"I suppose I am," she replied, nodding. "I hope you don't regret asking me to join."

"I doubt it," he said, holding out his hand. "Welcome to the council."

She shook his hand with a grin. "So, when's our first meeting?"

He smiled as well. "I'll send word with Mal but I imagine it will be tomorrow afternoon so we can continue discussing these bandits."

"Then I shall see you then," she said, giving him a little curtsy. "Have a good night, Your Majesty."

She started to walk toward the door before he called after her. Regina paused and then turned to face him. "Would you and Roland like to have dinner with me tonight?" he asked.

Regina hesitated, wondering if he was just being nice. Even he had to have limits to how much time he wanted to spend with a child. He deserved to have time with other adults. "I'm certain there are other people you would rather have dinner with than us," she said.

"No," he said.

"You want to have dinner with my five years old?" she asked, surprised.

He nodded. "And with you. I enjoy our conversations."

"Really?" she asked. "I'm just a bandit."

"You are so much more than that," he told her, sincerity in his voice and warmth in his eyes.

Regina's cheeks heated up as she said: "I guess I am kinda amazing. Glad someone's realizing it."

He chuckled. "Well, it seems you've kept the wrong kind of company if no one else realized it until now."

"I wouldn't say that," she replied. "Trees just are so…wooden, you know? But they are also very solid."

"Indeed," he said, grinning. "Well, then, I'll let you go get Roland and I'll see you in my dining room. Mal can show you the way."

She nodded. "We shall see you then."

He gave her a little bow and she left the room, walking away from it. After turning down a different hallway, Regina came to a stop and pressed her back to the wall. She closed her eyes, taking a moment to get her thoughts in order before she collected her son and faced the king once more.

The relationship between her and Robin had been odd since the moment he had rescued her from the snowstorm. She always was aware that he was the king and she still was just a peasant, even if she was working in his court, but he always treated her as an equal. And there was just something about the way he looked at her, as if he really saw her. It reminded her of Daniel and perhaps that was why it unnerved her – if the last person who looked at her like that was the man she loved, what did that mean about her relationship with the king and where it could go?

Don't be silly, Regina, she told herself. Neither of you want a romance – you've both been very clear about that. Besides, he may be okay making a bandit one of his councilors but he wouldn't make one his queen. When he does marry again, it will likely be some countess or something.

But that wasn't as reassuring as she hoped it would be and she wasn't ready to unpack the reason behind her disappointment just yet.

Instead, she pushed away from the wall and continued down to her room. She told herself the king just wanted to be her friend and that she needed to trust that this time, it would end better than the last royal who befriended her. Besides, he was good with her son and she appreciated all the time he spent with Roland. That was more than enough for her.

Maybe he would end up being the best friend she could ever want.

Or maybe he'll end up being so much more, a traitorous little voice said. She quickly hushed it and buried it.

Friendship was all she ever wanted from the king.

Nothing more.

"Your Majesty, I must once again object to having…her…here."

Robin gritted his teeth as one of his councilors, Much, glared at Regina. She held his gaze, showing she was not going to let him intimidate her into leaving. Nor would Robin let her leave as Regina deserved to be there, maybe even more than most of his councilors.

"And, once again, your objection is dismissed," he said, leaning forward. "This is my council and I decide who sits on it."

"Of course, Your Majesty," he replied. Robin counted down from five before Much continued: "But what are her qualifications?"

Robin frowned. "I think she's qualified. That should be enough."

"In other situations, it would be," another, Tuck, argued. "But I think you can understand why in this case, we have our doubts."

"You think I'm only here because His Majesty is thinking with his cock rather than his brain," Regina said bluntly.

Everyone around the table dropped their gazes and Robin swore he saw a couple start to turn red. One, Lord Nottingham, finally said: "Not even the queen joined the council."

"Because she didn't want to," Robin replied softly. "I offered and thought she would've made a good addition to this council as well."

Silence descended upon the council as he let his words sink in. He had wanted his wife to sit by his side at these meetings but she had not been a fan of this type of politics. Marian preferred to help him through meals and teas with the ladies of the court, knowing how much power a wife truly held – even if their husbands wouldn't admit it. Robin wondered if they would've made the same argument had Marian joined the council or if they were just using it to dance around whatever they truly objected to about Regina's presence on the council.

He leaned forward, meeting each of their eyes. "So is your main objection the fact she is a woman?"

"She is from Mist Haven," another councilor, Alan, said. "She has no loyalty to Sherwood. How can we trust her?"

Nottingham looked Regina over before frowning. "You know, she looks familiar. Isn't she the one Queen Snow wants?"

Regina tensed up as anger flared inside Robin. "That doesn't matter. I have granted her my protection," he said.

"And maybe that should've been a decision made by us rather than just you," Nottingham retorted.

The other councilors shifted in their seats, all uncomfortable by Nottingham's statement. Robin held the man's gaze. "Am I not the king?"

"Yes," Nottingham replied. "But…"

Robin held up his hands, shaking his head. "No buts. My word is final."

Nottingham leaned back, muttering: "Your word is going to hurt us all."

"What was that?" Robin asked, glaring at him and resisting the urge to throw him out of the room for his insolence.

"You are going to hurt us all," Nottingham repeated louder. "She is clearly the reason you are not letting us forge an alliance with Mist Haven."

Regina frowned as she looked at him. He wanted to give her a reassuring smile but knew that would only confirm Nottingham's suspicion. So he forced himself to focus on his adversary. "I am not letting us forge an alliance with Mist Haven because we would not benefit from one," he said.

"I disagree," Nottingham replied. "There is much to be gained by trading with Mist Haven."

"Like what?" Regina asked, crossing her arms. "Some sickly-looking potatoes? A handful of berries?"

He frowned. "What do you know about it? You're just an outlaw wanted for crimes against the Crown!"

"She is also from Mist Haven," Robin reminded him. "I think she has a better idea of the state of the country than we do."

"Better than the queen's representatives?" Nottingham asked, almost scoffing at the suggestion.

Tuck nodded. "It does seem Mist Haven really wants this alliance and so I would not be surprised if the representatives have…misrepresented…the true state of the country in order to convince us to agree to it."

"That is true," Alan agreed. "I think we should let Regina tell us what her experience of Mist Haven is."

Robin turned to Regina. "Would you like to tell us about Mist Haven?"

"Perhaps," she said, eyeing Nottingham. "If the council will accept what I have to say."

"How will we know it will be the truth?" he asked her, clearly not ready to back down. Robin remained on edge, ready to jump in should he go too far.

She raised an eyebrow. "What do I have to gain by lying?"

"Staying out of the hangman's noose," Nottingham said, nearly spitting at her. "Even though that's where you belong, traitor."

"Enough," Robin snapped. "You speak of things you do not know."

Nottingham glared at him. "You have been bewitched by this woman and she will lead us to ruin."

Regina started to stand. "Well, I can tell when I'm not wanted. I will excuse myself."

"No," Robin said, standing as well and gently gripping her arm. "You do not have to leave. Lord Nottingham will."

Nottingham glared at him. "You are dismissing me over her?"

"I am dismissing you because of your own behavior and attitude," Robin replied. "You can respect all members of this council or you can leave it."

"This is outrageous!" Nottingham declared, rising to his feet. He looked around at the other councilmembers. "Aren't you going to say something?"

They all looked down, refusing to meet his eyes. Robin continued to hold his head high. "You have been dismissed."

Nottingham nodded. "Fine. But you will regret this."

Silence filled the room as everyone watched him leave. He slammed the wooden door as if he were a younger man having a tantrum. Robin sighed before motioning to Regina's chair. "Please, have a seat, milady."

"Yes, please, Regina," Tuck said kindly. "We do want to hear your experiences in Mist Haven."

Regina sat back down and nodded. "Alright. Where do you want me to start?"

"Wherever you feel comfortable starting," Robin told her. She did not owe his council her sad story with the queen – not yet anyway.

She nodded. "I guess it's best to start with my time as a bandit. I was a servant in the palace under King Leopold, not Queen Snow."

Alan perked up at that. "You worked in the palace?"

"Yes," she replied, "but I have no information useful to you."

Robin reached out and took her hand, smiling reassuringly at her. "Just tell us what you know and what you want to tell us. We'll determine if it's useful or not."

She took a deep breath. "Alright, well, I guess I can tell you a bit about Queen Snow and then tell you more about the state of Mist Haven."

"That sounds very helpful," Tuck assured her as the others nodded. She continued to tell her story and Robin leaned back in his chair, though he was ready to jump back in should his council cross a line again.

After all, he would hate for one of his council members to end up in the hospital wing – even if they would've deserved whatever she did to them.

"Thank you for telling us about Mist Haven," Tuck said, shaking Regina's hand. He smiled, a genuine one that lit up his eyes. "It was truly enlightening."

Another one of Robin's councilors – Will, she believed – nodded as he left the room. "It certainly gave us a lot to think about now."

"I hope it helps," Regina replied. "And I hope we can all work together as councilors moving forward."

Tuck nodded, withdraw his hand. "So do I."

She then shook Will's hand as well. He gave her a small smile. "I look forward to our next meeting."

"I do too," Regina replied, finding she meant that. She felt she was helping Robin and his council and she had enjoyed the back and forth with most of his councilors. It surprised her but she almost felt like she did belong there.

Will and Tuck left her. A few moments later, she heard Robin ask: "So we haven't scared you off?"

She looked over to find him leaning against the door to his council room, his arms crossed as he smiled at her. Regina smirked, shrugging. "It takes a lot more than that to scare me off."

"Good to know," he said, stepping closer to her. His smile fell and he turned serious. "I do want to apologize for Lord Nottingham's behavior. He was out of line."

"Thank you," she replied, "but we both know that he should be the one apologizing."

He nodded, sighing. "I know. And I think we both know that he will never do that."

"True," she said, wondering what exactly they had just set into motion. "How much trouble do you think he can cause?"

"Not as much as he thinks," Robin replied. She waited for him to go into more detail but that seemed to be all he was willing to say about that. Regina decided to drop it for now and hope he was right.

He held out his arm to her. "May I escort you back to your rooms? I am hoping to steal Roland for a few hours."

She took his arm. "He'll be happy to let you steal him. What do you plan to do?"

"I am not entirely certain," Robin replied as they walked down the hall. "I am leaning toward walking around the palace grounds before the sun sets."

"I think Roland would like that," she said, imagining her son running around as the king kept a watchful eye on him. It would also help to have him run off some of that energy before she had to wrestle him into bed.

Robin glanced down at her, smiling. "Would you like to join us?"

She bit her lip, tempted by the offer. But she had to shake her head. "I need to run some drills with my archers."

"Ahh," he replied. "Maybe another day?"

"Yes," she said. "I think that would be nice."

They arrived at her room and Regina opened the door. Roland jumped off the bed, yelling her name. She was not prepared to catch him but Robin did instead as Roland giggled. "You need to be more careful," Robin told him.

"Sorry, King," Roland replied. "Are we spending some time together now?"

Robin nodded. "I thought we could enjoy some time outside."

"That sounds fun!" he said, bouncing against Robin's hip. "Let's go!"

"Alright. Say goodbye to your mother and that you'll see her for dinner," Robin said, motioning to Regina.

Roland waved at her. "Bye, Mama. See you for dinner!"

She chuckled before kissing his cheek. "Have fun, sweetheart. And be good for His Majesty, alright?"

"I will, Mama," he said, holding onto Robin.

The king bowed to her. "We shall take our leave, milady. Good luck with your soldiers."

She thanked him and watched as he left. Once the door was closed behind him and her son, she sighed and sank down in a nearby chair. She needed to collect herself before she changed and headed down to the training area.

Her first meeting as a council member had been an interesting one. While she believed she had won over most of his councilors, she had a feeling that Nottingham would prove to be dangerous. For some reason, he desperately wanted an alliance with Mist Haven and now saw her as the main obstacle to getting it. Regina worried he would stop at nothing to achieve it and feared that he would defy Robin, turning her over to Snow White in order to please the queen and gain the alliance.

It seemed that despite Robin's assurances that she would be safe, she still needed to keep her guard up.

"Am I doomed to always have to look over my shoulder until I die?" she asked the air. "Or will I finally be able to find peace?"

There was no answer.

She really didn't expect one.

"Alright," she told herself. "You have trainees waiting. Best to get them into shape. They may be our only defense against Queen Snow White when she comes."

Regina stood and headed out, hoping Roland's one steady home wasn't uprooted once again by a vengeful queen who would not be satisfied until she made the little boy a complete orphan. All Regina could hope was that King Robin would be able to care for him should the worst happen to her. He was so good with Roland that she would not trust her son to anyone else.

She just hoped it never came to pass.

Roland raced around the field by the palace, laughing as he chased after a butterfly. It made Robin smile and he leaned against a tree, crossing his arms as he watched the boy play. His heart felt lighter just seeing the unbridled joy of a child. Robin found it refreshing after his council meeting, especially after how angry he had gotten at Keith over how he had treated and talked to Regina.

He was also concerned about how obsessed Keith was to broker an alliance between Mist Haven and Sherwood. It almost seemed as if Keith had forgotten that Nottingham was in Sherwood and that his loyalty was to Robin and not Queen Snow White.

Robin, though, knew better. Keith hadn't forgotten anything.

He felt no loyalty to Robin – only contempt.

There had always been some animosity between the Crown and the Nottinghams. Sherwood history recorded that when the kingdom was founded, every family within its borders was allowed to send one representative to a tournament to determine who would be the ruling family. The tournament lasted several days and featured many different contests that slowly whittled down the competition. In the end, the Locksley family was declared the winners and crowned the rulers of Sherwood.

Over the years, though, the story of the tournament had gotten a few revisions as oral tradition embellished certain aspects. Most people knew such embellishments were pure fantasy – such as the version that said the final contest had been to slay the dragon that guarded what would become Locksley Castle. However, there was one version that had a growing number of people in Sherwood who believed it was true.

According to this version, the final competition came down to the representative from the Nottingham family and the one from the Locksley family. They faced off against each other in an archery contest and kept tying round after round, with the targets placed further and further away until they were too far to be seen. Nottingham and Locksley fired their arrows and the contest judge went out to see the results. A member of the Locksley family had hidden in the woods near where the targets were and he saw the results first. Locksley's arrow had missed but Nottingham's had hit the bullseye. Envious of the Nottingham family and not wanting them to be named the rulers, the Locksley family member switched the targets before the judge arrived at the spot. There Locksley family had been declared the winners, stealing the crown from the rightful winners – the Nottinghams.

Robin knew the Nottinghams had started and spread this version, keeping it alive. It did concern him how many people believed it was true despite the plot holes – for starters, who had witnessed the Locksley family making the switch? – and the fact that it contradicted the official record. While the final event was archery, the Locksley family had easily defeated the Tuck family, not Nottingham. The Nottinghams had gotten knocked out on the second day of the tournament during the caber toss and were never close to winning the crown.

However, he knew the truth couldn't get in the way of a good legend. And Robin also knew there were people who did not like his family or the way they ruled, so they would latch onto a faulty legend in hopes of confirming that their dislike of the Locksleys was justified as well as a way to overthrow them. Robin feared Keith wanted an alliance with Mist Haven in order to get Queen Snow to help Keith overthrow Robin and let Keith become king.

Which, if it came to pass, would no doubt mean the end of Sherwood. Either it would be ultimately conquered by Mist Haven or some other country as Robin had no doubt the volatile Keith would wage war against any who upset him.

Robin was going to do everything in his power to make certain that never happened but also knew he had to be careful with how he treated Keith. The last thing he needed was a civil war in his country.

"King? Are you okay?" Roland asked, tugging on Robin's tunic as he looked up at him with concerned eyes.

"I am," Robin assured him, glad for the interruption as he kneeled to be eye-level with him. "I just got lost in my thoughts. Sorry."

Roland tilted his head. "Were they sad thoughts?"

"No," Robin said, "just serious adult thoughts."

"Oh," Roland replied. He made a face. "That doesn't sound like fun."

Robin chuckled, shaking his head as he stood. He lifted the little boy up with him, settling Roland on his hip. "Sometimes, being an adult isn't fun."

"True," Roland agreed, nodding solemnly. Robin's heart broke, imagining everything he had seen on the run with his mother. He deserved to have a more stable childhood but Queen Snow White had stolen that from him.

Robin vowed that she would not take the rest of his childhood.

"But I'm going to put those thoughts aside for now," Robin assured him. "And spend the rest of our time together focused on you."

He gently bopped the boy's nose and Roland chuckled. Robin then asked: "So what do you want to do, my boy?"

"Can we go for another walk through the gardens? I want to see if any more flowers have bloomed," Roland said, smiling widely.

Robin nodded. "I think that's a great idea. Let's go."

He carried the boy to the gardens. Roland didn't complain, content to just sit on Robin's hip for the time being. It felt good to be carrying the boy like that, almost natural. Like he always did it. For a moment, he flashed back to the strange dream where Marian had been alive and insisted Roland was their son.

Then he shook it off. It had been just a dream.

Nothing more.

"What's your favorite plant, King?" Roland asked him, providing Robin with a good distraction.

Robin pretended to think it over before saying: "Well, I love trees. When I was your age, I used to like to climb them."

He tickled Roland's stomach and the boy laughed, wriggling in his grasp. When he settled back down, Roland said: "I know how to climb trees. Mama sometimes had me hide up in there because the guards couldn't reach me there."

"Well, you can climb any tree here you want because you want to climb it, not because you have to," Robin told him, determined to give Roland some normalcy. "Just be careful, alright? Both your mother and I would be sad if you got hurt."

"I will be careful," Roland promised, hugging him.

Robin hugged him back before setting him down. "Alright, Roland. Let's go see if any more flowers have bloomed. Though we do have to be patient. It takes time for flowers to bloom."

"How much time?" Roland asked, stopping to look up at him as he waited for the answer.

Robin shrugged, kneeling to look him in the eyes. "It depends on the flower. Some may only need a few more days, others may need a few more weeks."

"Weeks?" Roland asked, groaning. "That's forever!"

"I'm sure it seems like that now but I think they will be blooming before you know it," Robin told him.

Roland tilted his head. "Really?"

"Really," Robin said, standing again and taking Roland's hand. "Come on. I think I see some new blossoms toward the back."

Gasping, Roland happily followed him back there. Robin's heart felt lighter being around the boy and he found he missed the family he should've had a little less. There was just something about Roland that soothed his heart better than any balm his healers could've made. He hoped he could continue spending even more time with the boy, if his mother allowed.

And he hoped that maybe Regina would start joining them more and more as well.

"Mal, do you mind staying with Roland for a little while longer? I want to visit the baths," Regina said, rolling her neck as she felt the grime that had built up on her skin. She had given her trainees a good workout and had sweated quite a bit herself, so she wanted to wash it away as well as soak her muscles so they weren't too sore in the morning.

"No," Mal replied with a smile. "You go and enjoy the bath. Roland and I will be fine here."

Regina nodded, stepping behind the curtain in her room and changing out of her uniform. She wrapped herself in the robe Mal had obtained for her and gathered the items she needed for her bath. As she headed toward the door, she thanked Mal again before leaving the room. She walked down the hallway and took the stairs leading to the baths, eager to get into its warm and refreshing waters.

As she approached the door to the baths, she hesitated for a moment. The image of a naked king still partially submerged in water flashed in her mind. She wondered if she was going to have another run in with him down here and contemplated turning back to ask Mal to bring a hot bath to her instead.

Don't be ridiculous, she told herself. There's no need to inconvenience anyone and the baths will be better for your sore muscles. Besides, it's nothing you haven't seen before. You can handle this.

She took a deep breath and opened the door. Regina stepped into the baths and stopped, trying not to groan. King Robin was indeed soaking in the water directly across from her, his arms resting along the edge and his head back with his eyes closed. He looked peaceful and for a moment, she once again considered leaving and giving him some peace.

Before she could decide, he lifted his head and opened his eyes. They widened slightly before he smiled. "Hello, Regina."

"Your Majesty," she said, clutching her towel closer. "I apologize if I've disturbed you. I can leave."

He shook his head, frowning. "There's more than enough room for both of us. Once you get into the water, I won't see anything. And I promise to close my eyes until you're in."

She knew he was a man of his word and would do so. It also was clear that he wouldn't see anything once she was in the water as she couldn't see the lower half of his body. Regina took a deep breath and nodded. "Alright. I'll let you know when you can open your eyes again."

"Good," he said, closing his eyes. "Go ahead."

Regina placed her towel on a bench and then took off her bathrobe, placing it next to her towel. She headed toward the baths, noting that the king still had his eyes closed as she entered the warm water. Lowering her body into it, she let out a sigh of relief as it started to soothe her sore muscles. Regina leaned back and said: "I'm in."

He opened his eyes and smiled. "There. Plenty of space, right?"

"Yes," she replied, sinking a bit deeper into the water. "And I really needed a good soak after today."

"Hard day of training?" he asked.

She nodded. "I am proud of my archers, they handled everything I threw at them. But I also feel bad for them because I'm certain they are just as sore as I am."

"They mostly likely are," he agreed. "Thankfully all the soldiers have access to their own baths so I hope they are having a good soak like us."

"Me too," she replied, leaning back. She then eyed him. "So what brings you down to the baths tonight?"

He shrugged. "Just a long day hunched over papers creating a pain in my back."

She winced, knowing that had to be uncomfortable. "Is the water working?"

"It is," he replied. "And I hope a good night's sleep also helps."

"You have some very comfortable mattresses," she said, "so I imagine you will feel better in the morning."

He grinned, nodding. "Thank you. I take it you've been sleeping well here at the palace?"

She nodded. "Between the soft mattress and pillows, the thick blankets, the roaring fire and the fact I don't have to worry about a guard, another bandit or a wild animal charging into my room to hurt either me or Roland, I've been sleeping like a baby."

"Good," he said. "You deserve some peace and security."

Regina felt her face heat up at the sincerity and intensity in his gaze. He truly did believe she was worthy and deserved the same good life he had been granted due to the circumstances of his birth.

King Robin of Sherwood kept proving over and over he was unlike any royal she had ever known.

She spotted the tattoo on his wrist that she had seen a few times since arriving at the palace. While Regina recognized it as the royal crest of Sherwood, she had not met many kings who got tattoos. "Do all the men in your family get tattoos?" she asked him.

"What?" he asked before glancing at his wrist. He chuckled, shaking his head. "This was a bit of a youthful misadventure."

"Is it one you're willing to talk about?" she asked, amused by his wording.

He chuckled, shrugging. "I trained with our soldiers and the lines got blurred for us. I wasn't their future king, I was just one of them. And after a night of drinking, a bunch of us decided to get tattoos. Thankfully, I had enough of my wits to get the royal crest. My parents were less than thrilled but figured it wasn't entirely inappropriate."

"I think it suits you," she said.

"Thank you," he replied with a smile. It then drooped a bit before he asked: "Would you consider it rude if I left you now? I'd love to stay but I am definitely starting to get very wrinkled."

She shook her head, knowing that he had been there before her. "I'll be fine. You go ahead."

He nodded, hesitating a moment. "Do you mind closing your eyes while I get out?"

"Oh!" she said, feeling embarrassed. She had forgotten that they were both completely naked – it was as if they had been having a conversation in the middle of his parlor rather than the baths. Regina closed her eyes. "Sorry. Go ahead."

She felt the water ripple around her, sloshing around as he climbed out of the bath. Regina tried to keep her eyes closed but curiosity got the better of her. Opening one eye, she looked over the naked king and felt a stirring deep inside her she hadn't felt in years.

Even clothed, it was obvious that King Robin kept himself in peak physical shape. And while she had reluctantly admitted to herself that he was attractive, she now realized he was drop dead gorgeous. She watched water droplets make their way through his toned chest and abs, dripping down his stomach toward his cock. Her face heated up as she caught sight of how big he was before closing her eyes again, feeling guilty for ogling him when he had asked her to not to look. Regina prayed he hadn't noticed.

"Alright," he said. "My robe is on. You can open your eyes again."

She opened her eyes and looked up, finding him standing there with a green robe wrapped around him. It was partially open at the top, revealing his chest. He smiled as he gave her a little bow. "Goodnight, Regina."

"Goodnight, Your Majesty," she replied.

He lingered for a moment before saying: "You may not want to stay in there much longer. Your cheeks are turning pink."

"Oh," she said, ducking her head and letting her hair cover her cheeks. "I'll get out soon. Thank you."

King Robin nodded before leaving the bath area. Once the door closed behind her, she let her head fall back and she groaned. If he only knew the reason why her cheeks had been pink were because she had caught a glimpse of him naked, he would probably not be giving her friendly advice out of concern. But she seemed to have gotten away with it and she let out a sigh of relief.

Her secret was safe.

She closed her eyes as she sank a bit deeper into the water. The image of the king, naked, flashed into her mind and seemed to taunt her. Regina once again watched that drop of water roll down his toned body and lead her gaze yet again to his cock. Warmth spread through her as she licked her lips, wondering what it would feel like to have him inside her.

"No," she said, aloud as she opened her eyes. She knew that it was dangerous to entertain such thoughts. Women like her who had sex with kings usually did not have happy endings, even if she was certain King Robin wouldn't hurt her like that. But it was safer for her to not even fantasize about him.

King Robin was off limits even in her imagination.

Feeling her muscles were soothed and her skin starting to shrivel, she decided it was time to get out as well. Regina climbed out of the water and wrapped a towel around her. She donned her robe before leaving the baths. Even though he had no doubt already arrived at his rooms, Regina still worried she would run into King Robin on her way back to her rooms. Her heart beat fast with each step she took until she got to her room.

"Are you alright?" Mal asked as Regina entered the room.

"What?" Regina asked, surprised. "Yes, why?"

Mal tilted her head before she said: "You just look a little flushed and a little panicked. I just want to make sure nothing happened."

"Still nervous in palaces, you know," Regina lied. Mal knew about her past and so it would make sense to her.

After a few moments, Mal nodded. "I do. But no one will hurt you here. No one, especially King Robin, will allow that."

Regina felt her cheeks heat up at the mention of King Robin as she nodded. "Thank you, Mal."

"You're welcome," Mal told her. "And good night."

"Goodnight," Regina said, walking her to the door. Once Mal walked away, Regina closed it and sighed. She rubbed the back of her neck before changing into a clean shift for bed.

Climbing into bed, she crawled under the covers and blew out the candle by the bed. She rested her head on the pillow as Roland rolled closer to her. He cuddled against her and she smiled, closing her eyes with hopes of a dreamless night ahead of her.

Hopefully.

"Do you mind if I join you?"

Robin looked up to find Regina standing at the edge of the baths. He nodded. "Of course you may."

She untied her robe and let it fall to floor, revealing her nude form underneath. Robin swallowed as she came closer, her hips swaying with each step. Her eyes fixed on him and she slipped into the water next to him, the edges of her dark hair floating around her. "How is this?"

"Good," he said, swallowing. He felt his cock start to harden, knowing she was so close to him.

"Good?" she echoed, moving closer to him. "Are you certain?"

He cleared his throat. "Well, maybe I guess you could come closer."

"Maybe?" she teased him. "You guess? Sounds like someone is indecisive and not very much like a king."

"Come closer," he said, as if giving an order to John or a member of his guard.

She smiled, wading through the water until she was floating in front of him. "Is this good?"

He could almost feel her body and wanted more from her. Robin met her brown eyes as he said: "No. Closer."

"Yes, Your Majesty," she said, straddling him and wrapping her arms around his neck. "Is this better?"

"Much," he replied, hearing how husky his voice got.

She leaned closer to him. "So, Your Majesty, what do you suggest we do now?"

"Oh, I have some ideas," he said, bringing his hands up to cup her full breasts. Robin then closed the gap between them, pressing his lips to hers.

They exchanged a few more kisses as he massaged her breasts, feeling himself harden even more. She broke their last kiss, smiling coyly at him. "Hmm, I quite like that idea. But I think I have a better one."

"Oh?" he asked, hoping her idea was the same one that had just popped into his head.

She nodded, kissing his jaw as she wrapped her fingers around his cock. Regina pumped it a few times before moving closer to him. He felt his tip press against her entrance and he pulled back to look her in the eyes. "Are you ready?" he asked.

"I am," she replied, slowly sinking over his cock. "That's just what you do to me."

Moist warmth covered his cock and he moaned at the feeling, having almost forgotten what it had been like to be inside a woman like this. She chuckled, nipping at his ear. "You like that, don't you?"

"I do," he replied. "You feel so good."

She hummed as she pulled back, pressing her forehead to his. "And I'm about to feel even better."

Regina began to move against him, riding his cock as she braced herself against his shoulders. He moaned again, his cock hardening even more as it went deeper and deeper inside her. Moving his hands down her back, Robin stopped at her ass and gave her firm cheeks a good squeeze. It drew a moan from her and his cock twitched inside her, enjoying the sound.

"I didn't take you for an ass man," she told him. "I thought you were all about the breasts."

He shook his head, smirking. "You thought wrong."

"Clearly," she replied, picking up her rhythm as his ball began to tighten. "But I'm not complaining."

"Didn't think you were," he replied, grunting between each word as he felt his release building.

Regina kissed his neck before saying: "You're close. I can feel it."

He hummed. "What about you? Are you close?"

"This isn't about me," she said, kissing his nose. "This is about you."

She then kissed him again and he responded eagerly, rocking against her as she continued to ride him. He broke the kiss as another moan left him. Robin closed his eyes, starting to see stars as he felt her walls tighten around his cock. If he played it right, he knew they could come together.

"Let go," she whispered, nipping at his ear. "I'll follow you."

And so he did.

Robin came with a shout of her name. He felt her come as well and they rode out their orgasms together, fire consuming him. If this was how he died, it would be a wonderful death and his last moments were heavenly.

He didn't feel her come with him and he reached up, trying to cup her cheek. "What about you, darling?"

"I'm fine," she told him. "This was all about you."

"But…you…"

She pressed her finger to his lips, silencing him. Regina smiled. "I told you. This was about you, Robin."

He rose up, trying to kiss her again but she seemed to fade away. Robin reached out, trying to hold onto her before feeling like he was falling…

Sitting up with a gasp, he blinked a few times as he realized he was in his bed and not the baths. He felt something wet and sticky against his skin and groaned as he figured out what had happened.

It had been years since such a dream had left him such a mess. He felt like a young man again and not in good way.

Robin stood, removing his sleeping pants and underwear. After discarding them in his laundry pile, he pulled on fresh ones before sitting on his bed. He rubbed his face with his hands as the dream played over and over in his mind.

He dreamt about having sex with Regina.

It certainly didn't seem like something honorable men did. Then again, honorable men also didn't peek when a woman was undressing after promising not to do so.

Robin still wasn't certain if he had done it on purpose or not. All he knew was that his eyes had opened a little bit and he had glimpsed Regina without her robe on. For a few moments, he admired her body – her curves, her breasts, her ass – before closing his eyes again and waiting until she gave him permission to open her eyes again. She didn't seem to notice he had been peeking so he figured he was in the clear.

Though not from his own conscience or his own sexual desires.

He laid down and placed his arm over his eyes. It had been a long time since he had last been intimate with anyone. Maybe his mind and body were telling him that it was time to scratch that itch – though not necessarily with Regina. Perhaps she was just the stand in for whoever he would bed.

Robin frowned. He had never been one for casual sex even though it had almost been expected of him as a young prince. Women had thrown themselves at him and advisors would offer to get him ladies of the night to warm his bed. But he had never been interested in that. If he was going to experience such intimacy with a woman, he wanted it to be part of a relationship.

But as he was not ready for a relationship again, he was likely going to have to change his view on casual sex.

"You are not going to solve anything tonight," he told himself. "Get some sleep. Maybe things will look better in the morning."

And maybe he would stop talking to himself as well.

He pulled the blankets around his body again and prayed that he would not have another sex dream about Regina. One was more than enough for now.

But he wouldn't mind a tamer dream about her and maybe even Roland instead.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5: Making a Home

Regina fanned herself as she sat by the window in her room. "Does it always get this hot in Sherwood?"

"Not always," Mal replied, sounding amused. "But this is not unusual during the summer months."

"Wonderful," Regina groaned, shaking herself.

Mal chuckled, smoothing out the covers on Regina's and Roland's bed as she finished making it. "Isn't it hotter in Mist Haven? That's what I've heard."

"Mist Haven is on the water," Regina said. "Any heat is tempered by a good breeze off the lake or the ocean."

"Ooh, that sounds nice," Mal replied, pausing and seemingly imagining what Regina had just described. "The trees don't do that for us."

Regina nodded, looking at the trees that surrounded the palace. "But they do give you more shade than being out in the open by a lake does."

"Well, point for us," Mal said. "Did you ever go swimming in that lake?"

"Swimming?" Regina asked, frowning. "No, no one really went swimming. Only sailors knew how to do that."

Mal tilted her head. "Is that so? Odd."

"Do you know how to swim? Is that something commonly taught here in Sherwood?' Regina asked, curious now.

"I do know how to swim," Mal replied. "Most people here in Sherwood learn. We have some rivers and lakes that are good for swimming."

She leaned forward, smirking as she looked Regina over. "If you ask His Majesty, he would probably teach you and Roland."

"I'm sure the king has better things to do than teach us to swim," Regina said, hoping the heat in her cheeks could be blamed on the sun rather than a blush. She had a feeling that the people of Sherwood swam naked, which made the image of King Robin getting out of the bath rise to the surface of her mind. He had made more appearances in her dreams than she would like to admit. While it wasn't like she hadn't had erotic dreams in the past, they had all been about Daniel and it seemed disrespectful to him for her to fantasize about anyone else.

"Perhaps," Mal replied. "But he would probably still do it anyway. It is a helpful skill to have."

Regina glanced at Roland, who was busy playing with some toys the king had given him and didn't seem to be paying attention to their conversations. There had been times while they were hiding in the woods that she had worried about him wandering too close to rivers or for the rivers to overflow their banks. She knew neither of them would be able to fight against the waters. But if Roland did know how to swim, she would worry less – even if she had no plans to go back to living in the woods anytime soon.

"Well, maybe he could teach Roland," she said. "I'm probably too old to learn how to swim."

Mal shook her head. "I doubt it. But if you're uncomfortable learning from the king, I could teach you."

That appealed to Regina a bit more than spending more time naked around King Robin, which was very dangerous. So Regina nodded. "Thank you. I appreciate that."

"You're welcome," Mal said, standing. "I should head back to the kitchens. I'll see you and Roland later."

"Bye, Mal!" Roland said, waving. "Thanks for breakfast!"

Regina chuckled, standing as well. "Yes, thank you. We appreciate everything you do for us"

"I enjoy helping you," Mal told her. "I like to think we're friends."

"Me too," Regina replied, feeling warmth spread through her. It had been so long since she had a friend and she liked how it felt.

Mal nodded, stepping away from her. "I'll see you tonight. We can talk more about your swimming lessons."

"Thank you," Regina said, closing the door once Mal walked away. She then returned to sit by the window, hoping a cool breeze would blow past soon.

Hopefully one day, she got used to summers in Sherwood. After all, she had plans to make it her home for a long, long time.

Maybe even forever.

"I cannot believe I am about to say this," Robin said, leaning back in his chair as he fanned himself. "I miss the snow."

He expected John to laugh but instead his secretary sighed. "I do too, honestly. It's easier to warm up than cool down."

"It is," Robin agreed. "Throw an extra log on the fire, drink something warm, don another fur…but now, there's not much to do. And I doubt the court wants to see me walking around naked as the day I was born."

John paused before grinning as a mischievous glint came to his eyes. "I think it would depend. I'm certain half the court wouldn't mind seeing you naked as the day you were born."

That gave Robin pause and he raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean by that?"

"You know what I mean," John replied. "You are still young and many in the court consider you very handsome. They would love to see you naked."

"Is that why they tend to lurk around the pond whenever I go swimming?" he asked.

John nodded. "Pretty much. Queen Marian and I used to laugh about how obvious they were being."

"You did?" Robin was surprised to learn his wife and secretary had their own private joke. It made him miss her more.

"It was hard not to notice them," John replied. "If you want, I can have more guards patrolling the area so no one bothers you."

Robin rubbed the back of his neck as he considered his friend's proposal. After a few internal debates, he shook his head. "I think I'll be fine."

He glanced outside the window before placing his fan down, standing up. "Well, after talking about it, I think I will head down there now."

"Sounds good," John said. "I think I'm going to go down to the storage area. That usually stays cool no matter the temperature outside."

"Try not to nibble on anything," Robin warned him, grinning as he recalled the cook chasing John throughout the palace the year before. "You're already on thin ice with the kitchen staff. And you don't want to annoy the people who prepare your food."

John paused, considering his words. "Good point. I'll try to restrain myself."

"That still doesn't sound too promising," Robin said, trying not to laugh. "And you'll only have yourself to blame."

He patted John's shoulder before heading into his bedroom. Robin changed from his finer clothes and donned a simple linen shirt as well as simple pants. After grabbing a towel, he left his room. John was gone and Robin chuckled, hoping he wasn't making trouble.

Robin left the palace, informing the guard posted at the door that he was going swimming. The guard nodded and Robin followed the path down to the pool behind the palace where many went to cool off on hot days such as this. He spotted a few servants coming back, water dripping from their hair. They stopped and bowed to him, which he acknowledged with a wave of his hand. Robin continued on his way, certain they were heading up to the palace to resume their duties now that they had cooled down.

As he approached the pool, he noticed two people standing next to it. Both were wrapped in towels as they talked together. He could tell they were both women and one had darker hair than the other. Robin felt his heart skip a beat as he realized who it was.

Regina.

He wondered who she was with as he got closer, finally catching Regina's eye. Robin smiled, raising his hand in greeting. "Gone for a swim?" he asked.

"Your Majesty!" she replied, her eyes widening.

Her companion slowly turned around to reveal Mal, the servant he had assigned to her. Mal dipped into a curtsy. "Your Majesty. I was teaching Lady Regina how to swim."

"Oh," he said, trying not to sound as disappointed as he felt. Why hadn't she asked him to teach her to swim?

Probably because neither of you are at the point where you can or should be nude around each other, a tiny voice in his head reminded him.

"I'm afraid I'm rather hopeless," Regina said. "Mal refuses to give up but I doubt I'll pick it up. Hopefully you'll have more luck with Roland…I mean, if you wouldn't mind teaching him how to swim."

Her request sent a thrill through him and he gave her a little bow. "I would be honored."

"Thank you," she said, sounding relieved. "I will feel better knowing he can swim."

"And you'll get better," Mal assured her, reaching out to squeeze her shoulder. "You'll be swimming in no time."

Regina shrugged. "I doubt it."

"Well, with a mindset like that you won't," he told her. "It'll just become a self-fulfilling prophecy."

Mal nodded. "His Majesty is wise."

"Are you saying I just need to believe in myself?" Regina asked, raising an eyebrow as skepticism filled her eyes.

"Yes," Robin and Mal said in unison. She didn't look convinced and Robin wished he knew what to say to make her believe in herself more.

Mal placed her hand on Regina's shoulder. "We should let the king have his time in the pool. Let's return to the palace."

"Enjoy the water," Regina said, giving him a small smile. "You should have a better time than me."

He nodded, wishing she could stay but knowing it was best for her to leave. As she started to walk away from him, an idea struck him. "Can we have the evening meal together?" he called out.

She paused before slowly looking back at him. He could see she bit her lip before she nodded. "We can. Thank you."

"I'll see you then, milady," he replied.

"You will," she agreed. Mal then reached out and guided her away from the pool, leaving Robin alone for his swim.

He sighed, taking off his shirt and pants before wading into the cool water. Robin dunked his head under the water and re-emerged, feeling refreshed. Leaning back, he let himself float there as he stared up at the blue sky. But instead of the clouds floating overhead, all he saw was Regina and Mal. He knew he should be glad that she had another friend here in Sherwood and should want her to have more. It would mean she was really settling in and that his home was becoming hers too.

But he wasn't glad at all.

No, that wasn't true. Part of him was glad but it wasn't as loud or large as the part that was not happy at all.

He did not like how close Regina and Mal appeared to be. Or how easily both women interacted with each other, especially when some of his interactions with Regina still felt stilted and like there was a barrier of some sort between them.

Because there is, a voice that sounded like John said in his mind. And you know why.

Robin sighed. He did know why – there were still walls he had up just as Regina had as well. Perhaps they would never be able to get over them. Maybe he would never have the relationship he wanted with her because of them.

What kind of relationship do you want with her anyway?

"I don't know," he answered, not caring that he was talking to himself. He was alone there after all.

You should probably figure that out first.

"True," he agreed, letting his mind wander as he thought about Regina and the relationship he had with her. He would consider her a friend and he had opened up to her a few times though she probably had confided more about herself than he had about himself. Maybe that needed to change…

And then what?

"I don't know."

I think you do, the voice told him. You just don't want to admit it just yet.

"I am not interested in having such a relationship with a woman," Robin said, his stomach twisting in knots. "There will be no one else but Marian."

Except he didn't need a little voice to tell him that was a stance he couldn't take forever. He was king and one of his duties was to provide an heir. Robin knew in his heart that he would need to find another wife and have a child to preserve his lineage, securing the throne for another generation.

But was Regina that new queen?

He was overthinking everything. Marian often said that he did that and she would tell him to get himself out of his mind. Sometimes she would help him by kissing him or making him laugh at something else. But now, he would have to do it himself.

Robin took a deep breath and let himself sink under the water. He floated beneath the surface until his lungs began to burn for air. Pushing himself up again, he broke through and took a big gulp of hair. Robin brushed water from his eyes as he opened them, treading water in the middle of the spring as his mind felt clearer and he made some resolutions when it came to Regina.

First, he would let her in more. She had trusted him with some of her past and he believed it was time to return the favor. After all, he had trusted her with important parts of his court and it was time to trust her to be his friend.

Whatever happened after that would happen.

Now that he had settled that, Robin felt much better and lighter. He started to swim around the pool, wanting to enjoy the water a bit more before he had to return to his duties as king.

Sometimes all one needed was a good swim to see things clearer.

Regina was surprised when John showed up to her room that evening. He bowed, smiling as he said: "King Robin has sent me to escort you to dinner."

"Oh," she said, surprised. "Are we not eating in the kitchens?"

He shook his head. "His Majesty would like to dine with you in his private quarters this evening."

Something fluttered deep inside Regina but she nodded, pretending it didn't faze her as well. "I see. Do we need to wear something else?"

"No, no," he assured her. "His Majesty doesn't care about how people are dressed."

While Regina knew he meant that to reassure her, it made her feel even more insecure. She felt like King Robin was lowering his standards to accommodate her and she felt that she needed to improve how she dressed. After all, she was practically a member of his court. It was time she dressed like it so Regina made a note to ask Mal about getting some new dresses for herself and clothes for Roland.

John led them down a hallway Regina recognized before opening a door. He bowed. "The royal dining room," he announced.

"Thank you," she said, feeling weird. She was not used to people bowing to her or treating her like she was royalty. Regina still felt like she was a handmaiden to a future queen, an orphan abandoned by the palace's kitchens.

She walked into the dining room and found King Robin waiting for them. He smiled, also bowing to them. "Good evening."

"Okay, the bowing is starting to get a bit old," she said. "You all can stop bowing to me. I'm not anyone special."

Robin straightened up, raising an eyebrow. "I think there are those of us who disagree. What do you think, Roland? Is your mother someone special?"

"Mama's the best!" Roland agreed, hugging her. She crouched and hugged him back, kissing his forehead.

When Regina released him, Roland then ran to Robin. "King!"

"Hello, Roland," Robin said, picking the boy up and resting him on his hip. "How are you today?"

"I'm good," Roland said, wrapping his arms around Robin's neck. "I missed you."

Regina saw the king melt under her son's earnest gaze and his smile softened. "I missed you too. I'm sorry I couldn't spend some time with you today. Unfortunately, I had a lot of work to do as king."

"To keep everyone safe?" Roland asked.

"Yes," he replied. "And to make certain everyone has what they need to have good lives."

Roland nodded solemnly. "That's very important."

"It is," Robin agreed. "But now I'm having dinner with you and your mother. That's also very important."

He pulled out a chair and set Roland down in it before pulling another chair out for Regina. "Milady," he said.

"Thank you," she replied, sitting down. She smoothed out her skirt, hoping it was appropriate enough for a dinner with the king.

Robin took his own seat and lifted the lid on the dish in the middle, revealing a glazed ham. He picked up the carving knife and began cutting. "How many slices do you want, Regina?"

"I'll take two," she said. "And Roland will take one."

"Alright," he said, placing a slice on Roland's plate before giving her the two slices she requested. He took two as well before uncovering several other dishes. "Please help yourself to whatever sides you want."

Roland looked them over now before turning to Regina. "Can I have potatoes and some broccoli please?"

"You may," she said, scooping some potatoes onto his plate. She then frowned, looking around. "I don't see the broccoli."

"Here they are," Robin said, starting to put some on Roland's dish. "Say when."

After heaping several green stalks on the plate, Robin stopped when Roland told him to. He smiled as he set the bowl down. "You're going to be as strong as your mother after eating all that broccoli," he told Roland.

Regina sipped her wine as she studied the king. While he was always complimentary toward her, she felt he was laying it even thicker than normal. She wasn't sure what was going on but Robin had yet to do anything to hurt her so she decided to trust him.

"Broccoli?" he asked, holding it out to her. She took it, thanking him before placing some stalks on her plate as well.

They dined in silence for several bites, everyone enjoying the delicious meal prepared by the kitchens. After finishing his ham but before moving on to his sides, Robin wiped his napkin and leaned back. He took a sip of wine before saying: "I think my cooks have outdone themselves tonight."

"It is very good," Regina agreed, pausing her meal and sipped her own wine. "Thank you for inviting us for dinner."

"Thank you for joining me," he said, reaching out and covering one of her hands with his own. "I realized our friendship was a bit lopsided and wanted to rectify that."

That surprised her and she tilted her head. "Lopsided?"

He nodded. "I feel you've opened up more to me than I have you. You've trusted me and I want you to know that I trust you too."

"You've trusted me with a lot," Regina said, surprised he felt that way. "Your soldiers, to give you counsel…"

"True," he said. "And now I'm trusting you as a friend."

She bit her lip, not sure how she felt about that. Her last friendship with a royal had ended up with her nearly getting killed and then running for her life. Regina glanced at Roland, not wanting to have to go back to being a bandit and worrying about food and shelter for her son.

He leaned closer to her, dropping his voice. "I am not Snow White."

"I know," she replied softly. "But friendships still don't usually end well for me."

"I hope I can change that for you," he replied. "And that we can be friends for a long, long time."

Regina found her nerves were soothed as she stared into his eyes, finding only sincerity and warmth in the blue depths. Swallowing, she nodded. "I hope so as well."

"Good," he said, straightening up in his chair.

"What about us, King?" Roland asked, drawing their attention back to him. He looked up at Robin with big brown eyes. "Are we going to be friends for a long, long time too?"

Robin nodded, leaning forward. "Oh, yes, my boy."

"Good," Roland said, beaming at him. "I like the sound of that."

"Then why don't you tell me about your day, friend?" Robin asked, taking some more potatoes as Roland excitedly told him about everything he did that day. Robin listened intently and gave the boy his full attention, asking questions and appearing to be genuinely interested in what Roland had done.

It warmed Regina's heart even more.

As she sipped her wine, she couldn't help but feel that this was right. That she was meant to have dinner with King Robin while Roland talked excitedly about their day. It just seemed like someone was missing, someone important. She just didn't know who it was…

"Mama? Are you alright?" Roland asked, interrupting her musings. Both he and the king were watching her with concerned looks.

"Sorry," she said, "I was lost in a thought there. What did I miss?"

Though Robin continued to watch her with concern in his eyes, Roland perked up. "King said he's going to teach me to swim! Is that true?"

Regina nodded, smiling. "I thought it would be good for you to know how to swim. And from what I understand, King is one of the best."

"I wouldn't say that," Robin said, his cheeks turning pink. "But I am pretty good and I can absolutely teach Roland. It will be a lot of fun."

"What about you, Mama?" Roland asked. "Is King teaching you to swim as well?"

Regina shook her head. "Mal is teaching me."

Her son frowned at that. "Why not King?"

"We swim naked," Robin told him. "And so women tend to prefer to swim with other women and men swim with other men."

"Oh," Roland said, before perking up. "We swim naked?"

Both adults chuckled before Robin nodded. "Yes. After all, we wouldn't want to get our clothes wet, right?"

"Right," Roland said with a nod to punctuate his sentence. "When can we start swimming, King?"

"How does tomorrow sound?" Robin asked.

"It sounds good," Roland replied, bouncing in his chair. He looked up at Regina. "Doesn't it, Mama?"

She chuckled, reaching out to run her hand through his curls. "Yes, it does, sweetheart."

"Then we're agreed," Robin said, taking some more potatoes. He winked at Roland. "I'll have you swimming like a pro in no time."

Roland cheered before finishing up his food. Leaning back in her chair, Regina sipped her wine as relief swept over her. She probably would not be swimming like a pro and would just be happy if she could at least float in water but at least Roland would know how to swim. It would be one less thing she would have to worry about.

Well, she would probably still worry about it but not as much.

"Speaking of lessons," Robin said, setting his goblet down again. "How go yours with the other children, Roland?"

Roland's eyes lit up. "They're great! I love them!"

"He does," Regina replied, smiling as she thought about how excited he was to leave in the morning to go to his classes. He was also just as excited when he returned, eager to tell her everything he learned that day. "He also read a sentence to me the other day."

"Very good!" Robin said, clapping his hand. "I hope one day you can read something to me, Roland."

Roland nodded. "I would love to!"

Meeting Regina's eye, Robin chuckled as he nodded. "Good. Just keep up with your homework and you'll be a scholar in no time."

"Homework?" Roland asked, frowning. "Like when I help Mama clean or when I would make our bed back when we lived in the stump?"

"Stump?" Robin frowned as well, turning to Regina.

Her cheeks grew warm as she swallowed her sip of wine. "It was hard to find shelter living in the woods but I found a rather large stump that I was able to slowly turn into a proper home that included a fireplace and a bed as well as a table. I even managed to fashion a door. We lived there for a couple years before it was discovered, which is why we were on the move last winter," she said.

"I see," he replied, a strange look in his eyes. He then shook his head before turning to Roland. "I think you're talking about chores. I'm talking about the work your tutor gives you to do outside of class to help you practice what you learned."

"The worksheets you do," Regina reminded her son. "I believe that's what he's asking you about."

Roland's eyes widened as his lips formed an 'o' shape. He turned back to Robin. "Yes, I do all my worksheets and Mama helps me when she can."

"Good," Robin said. "If you ever need any help your Mama can't provide, you can come to me."

"Thank you, King," Roland said. Regina was also touched by his offer to help Roland with the worksheets, knowing that the time will come very soon when she wouldn't be able to help him anymore.

Robin leaned forward, grinning with a twinkle in his eyes. "You know what I'm ready for now?"

"What?" Roland asked in a whisper, his eyes wide. Even Regina leaned in, curious to know what the king was planning.

"Dessert," Robin declared, smiling now. He leaned back and clapped his hand, summoning a servant from the shadows. "Please tell the kitchens we're ready for dessert."

The servant bowed. "Yes, Your Majesty."

"What are we having?" Roland asked, leaning forward with wide eyes.

"I asked the cooks to surprise us so we're going to find out together," Robin said, sounding almost like a child himself. His excitement was contagious and even Regina found herself giddy to find out the answer.

As the servants approached with their dessert, Regina felt even more confident that her decision to stay in Sherwood with the king was a good idea. She allowed herself to dream that Roland would have a better life thanks to King Robin and that he wouldn't do anything to hurt her or her son.

Roland fell sleep in Robin's lap that night.

He had sat there to listen to Robin tell him one of Sherwood's legends and when it ended, Roland cuddled against him. Regina didn't seem to mind as she sipped her whiskey so they left the boy where he was. As Robin talked with Regina, he felt Roland lean more and more on him until he was essentially deadweight. Looking down, Robin was not surprised to find him sound asleep.

"I should probably take him back to our room," Regina said, finishing her whiskey and setting the glass down. She stood. "You'll both be more comfortable if he's in bed."

Robin stood as well, holding Roland as the boy adjusted to rest his head on Robin's shoulder. "I can carry him."

She seemed hesitant but nodded. "Thank you."

"I'll follow you," he told her, adjusting Roland so they were both more comfortable as Robin held him.

They walked through the palace and Robin was pleased with how easily she now navigated the hallways. He hoped that meant she was feeling more and more at home here. Robin wanted her to be comfortable and to feel safe.

Roland grew heavier in his arms and he shifted him a few times as they crossed his throne room to head to the other wing. Looking up at him, Regina held out her arms. "I can take him. I'm used to him being dead weight."

"It's alright," Robin said, shifting the boy once more. "I've got him. But I certainly put you far away, didn't I?"

She shrugged. "I expected to be put in the servants' quarters. I am just happy to have a bed and a fire."

Recalling that her last home was a tree stump, he nodded as they entered the wing where Regina's room was located. She stopped at a door and opened it, grinning. "Looks like Mal was already here. Everything is ready for us to go to bed," she said.

"That's good," he replied, feeling something that felt like jealousy creep up. He swallowed it down, reminding himself that it was Mal's job to get everything ready for Regina and Roland each night. It didn't mean anything more than that.

"You can lay Roland down there," Regina said, motioning to the bed. "I can change him and then tuck him in."

Robin glanced around before frowning. "You two are sharing a bed?"

"Yes," she replied. "Why?"

"Do you mind?" he asked, laying Roland on the bed.

She shook her head. "We've shared a bed since he outgrew the makeshift crib I made him. It would be weird not to share a bed with him."

He swallowed down the thought of the crib his son had supposed to sleep in, the one every prince and princess of Sherwood had slept in for centuries. Or thoughts of sharing his bed with both Marian and their son, his family safe and sound under the blankets and within arm's reach.

"Robin? Is something wrong?" Regina asked, interrupting his wishful thoughts.

"No, no," he replied. "Just thinking."

She nodded, removing Roland's clothes to put him into his nightwear. Regina then motioned to a place behind him. "Can you get Roland's nightshirt from over there please?"

Robin agreed and turned toward the little chest behind him. He picked up the small nightshirt folded there and handed it to Regina. "Do you need any help with him?" he asked.

"I've got it," she replied. "I've done this many, many times before. I have a system."

"Alright," he said, stepping back. He watched as she slid the garment over her sleeping son, gently pulling his arms through each sleeve. Roland never stirred and she laid him back down, kissing his forehead as she pulled the covers over him.

She then stepped around the bed and approached Robin. "Thank you for dinner."

"Thank you for joining me," he replied. "I enjoy spending time with you and Roland."

"I know. I doubt you would keep inviting us if you didn't," she teased him, moving to the table. "I just wish I had something to offer you in return."

He looked around, nodding as an idea filled his head. "Maybe it's time we relocate you."

She paused, tilting her head. "Relocate us? Where?"

"Somewhere else in the palace," he assured her. "These rooms are really meant for guests. You and Roland are no longer guests. So it's time to get you a proper apartment that you can call home."

Her lips parted as her eyes widened. "You mean that?"

"I do," he replied. "My words are never empty."

"Thank you," she replied. "I appreciate that. Roland and I are a bit cramped in this room. It'll be nice to have some place where we can both spread out and he can grow."

She glanced at her sleeping son with a soft smile that made Robin's heart melt. He stepped closer to her. "I'll find some apartments and you can pick which one you like best."

"I appreciate that," she said. She glanced at Roland. "It will take some time to get used to sleeping by ourselves."

"You can always ease yourselves into it," he told her. "Get him used to his own bed and then you to not having him there."

Regina smiled. "I guess kings really do know everything."

He chuckled, shrugging. "I've heard other parents talk about getting their children used to sleeping in their beds. I figured it would help now."

"I think it will," she replied. She bit her lip before hugging her. "Thank you for…well, everything."

Robin wrapped his arms around her and held her close, taking in her now familiar woodsy scent. Despite living in the palace now, it still had yet to fade away and it soothed him. "You're welcome."

They held each other for a bit longer before she pulled away, tucking some hair behind her ears. "You must be tired. So I'll say goodnight and that I'll see you in the morning."

"Goodnight, Regina," he said, kissing her hand. "Pleasant dreams."

She walked him to her door and he reluctantly left her. Robin walked away from her room, pausing to look behind him. He found her still watching him and she waved once she caught him looking. Waving back, Robin took a deep breath and continued his journey back to his room.

He was definitely going to move her and Roland closer as this distance just wouldn't do.

"These rooms are beautiful," Regina said, walking into the apartment the king showed her. The walls were painted a rich red color with dark wood accents. She ran her hand over the mantle, humming. "What type of wood is this?"

"Walnut," he replied. "It's rather rare and so very expensive. One of my ancestors likely took great delight in decorating this room show off their wealth."

She nodded, unsurprised. "The wealthy usually do."

"Would you like a tour?" he asked, stepping forward. "I can show you the bedrooms next, if you want."

"Not just yet," she replied, still wandering around the space. "I want to take this all in first, if you don't mind?"

He nodded, clasping his hands behind his back with a soft smile. "Take your time. We're in no rush."

She doubted that and gave him a look. "Don't you have a kingdom to run?"

"John knows where I am," he assured her. "Besides, I think I can take one afternoon off without Sherwood falling apart."

"I hope so," she said, laughing. She was touched that he would clear his schedule just for her and this time, it didn't come with the fear that maybe they were getting too close. Regina was starting to believe that this wouldn't end in disaster like her relationship with Snow White.

She looked out a window, gasping when she saw that they overlooked the forests that surrounded the palace. The trees were lush with green foliage and she could see birds flying over the treetops. Regina knew that they would then be treated to a beautiful show in the autumn when the leaves changed their colors before falling to the ground. And when the snow came again, it would turn the forest into a winter wonderland.

"This view is gorgeous," she said, awestruck.

"I know," he replied. "It's very similar to my own so I figured you and Roland would love it."

She turned toward him, curiosity piqued. "How close are we to your rooms?"

"We will share a hallway if you decide to choose this one," he said, smiling. "Pretty much I would be your neighbor."

"Hmm," she said, walking away from the window. "And what kind of neighbor are you?"

"Very quiet but very friendly," he assured her, trying not to smile so he looked serious.

She nodded. "Good. I would hate to have to lodge a complaint about you."

"Me too," he replied. "I would have to turn it over to John to mediate and I have no doubt he would enjoy ruling against me."

Regina laughed, imagining the king's secretary gleefully ruling Robin was in the wrong and imposing a ridiculous punishment. "I believe that."

"If you want to change the furniture, you can," Robin said, placing his hand on a large chair with a dark green cushion.

"With what?" she asked. "My past furniture has likely all been burnt to a crisp."

He shrugged. "We could always make you new things."

"I think this will be fine for now," she assured him, deciding it she wanted to redecorate she would do it slowly as she saved up the money Robin gave her as the trainer for his female soldiers and a councilor.

Robin nodded, motioning to the doors on his right. "Do you want to see the bedrooms now?"

"Yes," she said, eager to see the next rooms. "Lead the way."

"We'll start with Roland's room," he said, going to the right. He opened the door and motioned for her to enter. "Ladies first."

She chuckled as she passed him. "Always a gentleman."

"I try," he said. "Or else I'm afraid my mother would come back to haunt me."

"That would be interesting," she replied, imagining Robin being scolded by a ghostly figure for not being polite enough.

He chuckled. "Only because you wouldn't be the one being haunted."

"True," she agreed with a laugh. She then stepped into the room and looked around the room. It was a wide space with plenty of room for her son to grow. There was a large bed and a desk along with a wardrobe and a trunk.

She walked over to the trunk and pressed her hand to it. "Is there something in here?"

"Yes," he replied. "Open it."

"Open it?" she asked. "I know you're the king but can you give me permission to open this? Who does it belong to?"

He smiled. "Me."

"Oh," she said, feeling even more awkward now. "I don't have to open it. You must want this back in your rooms."

"I had it brought here," he told her. "It's for Roland. And if you'll open it, you'll see why."

She nodded, taking a deep breath before opening the chest. Looking inside, Regina's eyes widened as she pulled out a wooden sword. "Are these toys?"

"They are," he said. "They are my old toys."

Regina's heart skipped a beat as she looked up at him, amazed by his generosity. "You're giving Roland your toys? Don't you want to keep them?"

"What for?" he asked. "There's no one else for me to pass them onto right now. Roland will love them and have a lot of fun with them, I know."

"He will," Regina said, closing the trunk. "You are too kind to us."

"Maybe," he replied. "But I think you both deserve it."

Taking a deep breath as emotions overwhelmed her, she said: "Thank you. Maybe one day, I won't be surprised by your generosity."

"I hope not," he told her, winking. "I like to surprise you."

"One day, maybe I'll surprise you," she said, wondering what she could do to thank Robin for his kindness and generosity.

He nodded. "Maybe you will."

Robin moved closer to her and she held her breath, wondering what would happen as he stopped very close to her. His eyes swept over her face before he took another step past her. "If you come over here, you'll see the desk I had brought for Roland to use for his studies," he said.

"Coming," she replied, closing her eyes as she wait for the excitement coursing through her to subside. She realized she had expected Robin to kiss her. Even more, she had wanted him to kiss her.

She was getting more attached to Robin every day.

And that excited her more than scared her.

"Regina?" Robin asked from behind her. "Are you alright?"

"Yes," she said, turning to face him. "I guess I'm a little overwhelmed. This all amazing."

He smiled and her heart skipped a beat. "I know it's a lot. But as I said, you and Roland deserve it."

She stepped closer to Robin, looking over the desk and finding some books there on the shelf. Regina pointed to them. "Are those your old books as well?" she asked.

"No," he replied. "You can ask John, I tend to hoard my books. Those are new ones I bought for Roland so he can start his own library."

"His own library," she repeated, amazed. "I never thought he would have that."

Robin smiled. "You can have your own library as well, if you want."

"My own library?" she repeated, surprised. "I've never owned books. Everything I've read belonged to either the princess or the queen."

"Well, we need to rectify that," he said. "I'll take you to the library and you can choose some books. And we can order more books for you."

Her head felt like it was spinning. "That sounds expensive. I doubt I could afford that, even with the money you give me as your trainer and councilor."

"Don't worry about price," he told her.

She shook her head, her stomach tightening. "I don't want to be in debt to you."

He frowned, reaching out to gently squeeze her arm. "What do I have to do to prove to you that I will never be like Snow White? I will never hold any of this against you or punish you for having a debt."

"It's not that I don't trust you," she told him. "I just want to feel independent. I want to be able to provide for myself and my son."

"You are," he assured her. "Nothing I do can change that."

She shrugged, trying to get him to understand. "But it also can't change how I feel."

"Of course not," he said. "I would never ask that of you. I just want to help. That is all, Regina."

"I know," she replied, knowing it was the truth. "And I appreciate that. But I look around and know that almost all of this belongs to you. I want something that belongs to me, even if it is just a book. Something I purchased or made myself."

He tilted his head, nodding. "I get it. So we can go to the library and you can pick out books you want to order. We can place the order and you can pay for it. How does that sound?"

Relief and joy filled her. "That sounds perfect. Thank you."

"Then we shall do that," he said. "Now, do you want to see your bedroom?"

She nodded. "I do. I'm curious to see how grand it is."

He chuckled as he led her out of Roland's room. "Oh, it's very grand, if you ask me. Fit for a queen."

"I'm not a queen," she replied. "I don't need anything too grand. I may not know what to do with all that space."

"I think you'll figure it out over time," he said, opening the door. "I think Roland won't be the only one who will grow into his room."

He stepped aside and motioned for her to lead the way. "After you."

She entered the room and stopped short, certain she could live her entire life in that room. It seemed like its own apartment, with chairs and a table by a fireplace in addition to a large four poster bed and a desk for her to use. A wardrobe sat against one wall while a trunk rested at the foot of the bed. She felt rather small in the room and for a moment, longed for the cramped coziness of her burrow in the woods.

"Well?" he asked, still standing in the doorway.

"I appreciate all of this," she said, hoping she didn't sound ungrateful. "But isn't there something smaller for us? We don't need all this room."

He tilted his head, studying her. "I don't know if we have anything smaller that isn't you and Roland once again sharing a room."

"And we can't do that forever," Regina replied sadly, knowing her son was going to keep growing and need space of his own to become his own person. She knew the bedroom next door would be the perfect place for him. Glancing back into her own large bedroom, she sighed. "I guess I can get used to this."

"Give it a chance. I think you'll find that you'll grow into it as well," he said. "It probably feels more overwhelming because you've never had such space before."

She bit her lip before looking back at him. "I did grow up in a palace, remember?"

He raised an eyebrow. "Did you have such a room there?"

"No," she admitted. "I slept in a small garret off the princess' room."

"This is definitely bigger than a garret," he said, grinning now.

She felt like he was teasing her and she rolled her eyes. "Yes, it's bigger than a garret. Congratulations," she told him.

He laughed. "Thank you. Now, when do you want to move in?"

"I guess we can start tonight," she said, knowing she would have to be careful about this. "Roland and I can share his bed until he gets used to it and can start sleeping on his own."

"That sounds like a plan," Robin replied. "Can I show you one more thing?"

She eyed him. "Are you hiding a whole bath in here too? Or is it a secret tunnel?"

His smile grew as he tapped his nose. "Follow me."

"Wait, is there really a secret tunnel?" she asked, surprised. She knew many palaces were rumored to have one – she and Snow had spent many afternoons trying to find ones back in Mist Haven – but why would Robin give her a room with a tunnel?

"Well, it's not terribly secret," he said, standing by what appeared to be a wall panel near her bedroom door. He pushed it and it swung open. "Follow me."

She followed him down the tunnel and saw that the walls were painted white. There were candles placed strategically along the tunnel so that they could be light and illuminate the path, most likely at night since she was able to see her way rather easily with the dim light pouring in from her rooms.

Robin stopped and gripped a doorknob. He turned it and pushed opened a door, revealing more sunlight. "And here we are on the other side," he said.

"Which is…?" She stepped out of the tunnel and looked around at the familiar setting before her. "Your rooms?"

He nodded. "Yes. For a long time, the king and queen had separate apartments. The tunnel allowed them to come and go between their rooms as they pleased."

Regina's stomach twisted into a knot. "You're treating me like your queen?"

"Well, no," he said, though his cheeks turned pink. "My queen would share my rooms with me."

"Oh," she replied, feeling foolish. "Of course."

He cleared his throat before saying: "If anything, I am treating you and Roland like family. This way Roland can spend time with both of us without having to go too far. He can just come and go as he pleases."

"Well, not as he pleases," Regina said, feeling a bit disappointed but still touched by his love for her son. "You don't want him bursting into this room whenever. There should be some boundaries."

"Of course," Robin replied. "Though Roland is always welcome here. So are you."

She wanted to smile but she knew that would easily change once he met the woman who would be his new queen. It was best to prepare Roland for that now and not have to deal with her son's disappointment once he was no longer as welcome in the king's chambers as he once was. Regina knew it was ultimately for the best.

Regina nodded before saying: "But we will still be respectful of you, Robin. I promise you."

"And I promise to be respectful of you," he said, tilting his head as it seemed his shoulders slumped. "You do not have to worry."

"I know," she assured him, wondering why he seemed so disappointed. "You have been nothing but respectful toward me and Roland. I appreciate that."

He smiled. "I am glad to hear that."

She glanced down the tunnel toward her room, deciding that it probably wouldn't be too bad to have the connection to the King's rooms. It would certainly make getting back after sharing a meal with him easier, especially as it was getting harder and harder to carry Roland as he grew.

"Will Mal still be my maid?" she asked, curious.

"Yes," he said, an unreadable emotion flitting across his eyes. He then blinked before smiling. "I know you two have a special bond and that you trust her."

Relief filled her as she nodded. "Mal's become a very good friend."

"I'm glad to hear it," he said, though there was a strange undertone to his voice. Was there something wrong with her relationship with Mal? Had she crossed a line somewhere? Regina frowned, hoping she hadn't done something to insult him.

Swallowing, Regina stepped forward. "Robin? Is something wrong?"

"What?" he asked, sounding surprised. "No, why?"

"You just sounded…off…when I mentioned Mal," Regina said. "Is there something I should know about her?"

Robin shook his head. "No, no. I'm sorry. Something popped into my head. I didn't mean to worry you."

"Alright," she said, though she didn't quite believe him. There was something deeper going on and part of her wanted to find out what it was. But she had paid the price of curiosity before and she was not going to pay it again.

The king could keep his secrets. She didn't want to know them.

It only ended in trouble.

"I guess I'll head back to my room and pack up what I have there," she said, holding out her hand to him. "Thank you."

He took her hand and then pulled her into a hug. "You're welcome. And you and Roland are always welcome in my rooms," he told her.

She knew she should remind him that they would respect his privacy but she just nodded. There would be time for that fight later. For now, this was about her gratitude for the spacious rooms for herself and Roland.

"Perhaps you can have dinner in our rooms sometime," she suggested, wanting to be an equal in their friendship. "Maybe tonight? To celebrate our first night there?"

Robin's smile softened and his eyes lit up. "I would love that. Thank you for the invitation."

"How does six o'clock sound?" she asked, feeling her stomach flip-flop as she took in his dimples. She didn't know why but they did something to her, something she felt was too dangerous for their relationship.

"It sounds perfect," he said. "I'll see you and Roland then."

She nodded. "I look forward to it."

Regina turned back and walked through the tunnel to return to her rooms. She stood in the middle, taking it all in and letting out a little laugh. For a baby abandoned by the palace kitchens, she had certainly come a long way. Now she was training royal soldiers and serving as a councilor to the king of Sherwood. Gone were the days where she and her son had to seek shelter in a tree stump, praying their fire kept out the cold of winter or that a storm wouldn't destroy their home. They now lived in a royal apartment, safe from the elements.

This was heaven.

It was home.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6: A Wedge

"Your Majesty?"

Robin looked up as John entered the room. He clasped his hands behind his back as he said: "Lady Zelena West is here."

"Oh," Robin said, surprised. He stood from his desk. "Where is she?"

"She's waiting for you in the receiving room," John replied, stepping aside so Robin could pass him.

Robin clapped John on the shoulder. "Thank you. Can you have the kitchens send us up some tea and sandwiches please?"

"Of course," John said, bowing. "They should be sent up shortly."

Thanking his friend, Robin left the room and headed down to the receiving room. It had been a some time since Zelena had last visited and he was eager to see his old friend again. Growing up, she had been one of his best friends and for a while, she had been the apparent choice to become queen until he had met Marian at a ball. He realized he only felt friendship for Zelena and she had agreed that she only saw him as a brother, happily stepping aside for Marian. Or at least, he thought it had been happily. He had had his doubts when she left court shortly after his marriage, retiring to her family's estate on the other end of Sherwood. Part of him wondered if she had truly been heartbroken or if she had just wanted to spend time with her aging parents before it was too late.

Don't be silly, he told himself. It was the latter. Zelena has never really been shy with you. She would've told you how she felt.

He entered the receiving room and smiled as he saw the familiar redhead. She wore a pink satin dress with a wide skirt and lace at her cuffs. Zelena stood in front of a portrait of his parents, admiring the painting with her hands clasped behind her back.

"Hello, Zelena," he said, approaching her. "It's good to see you."

She turned from the portrait, smiling brightly as her eyes lit up. Zelena rushed toward him, arms opened wide. "Robin! It's just as good to see you!"

He took a few steps toward her until they met up and she wrapped her arms around him. Robin held her as well, feeling good to be reunited with his best friend. "Welcome back," he said. "I've missed you."

"I missed you too," she replied before pulling back. She ran her hands down his arms. "How are you?"

"I'm doing well," he told her. "It hasn't been easy but I feel like the worst of the grief is behind me. I still miss Marian and our son but I have started to move forward with my life."

Zelena nodded. "Good. I am so sorry I wasn't able to get here earlier and couldn't be there for you during the darkest time of your life."

"You have nothing apologize for," he assured her, not wanting her to feel guilty. "You needed to be with your parents and with the bad winter we had, it was safer for you to stay in Oz."

"I know," she replied. "Still, I thought about you every day."

He felt his smile falter as guilt filled him, knowing he couldn't say the same about her. So he just thanked her instead and motioned to a nearby chair. "Please, sit down. The kitchens should send up some tea and sandwiches soon."

"Oh, that sounds wonderful!" she exclaimed, sitting down in the nearest armchair. "I've missed the food here at the palace."

"I am still surprised you didn't try to steal some of my kitchen staff from me," he admitted with a chuckle as he sat in the armchair next to her.

She laughed. "I did consider it. But I didn't want to insult our staff at home in Oz. They do still make my meals."

He nodded, knowing that every royal and noble family had the same one rule. "Never upset the people who make your food," he said.

"Exactly," Zelena said.

A servant emerged, carrying a silver tray with a tea service on it. She set it down on the table and curtsied. "Shall I serve the tea?" she asked.

"I can do that," Zelena said. She then looked at Robin. "If that is alright with you."

He turned to the maid. "We have it handled. You may return to the kitchens and we'll summon someone when we are done," he told her.

She curtsied again. "Enjoy."

Once she left the room, Zelena picked up the teapot and poured some tea into Robin's cup. "Do you still like a dash of milk and two sugars?" she asked.

"I do," he replied. "You still take it with milk and as many sugars as you could possibly fit in it?"

Zelena chuckled, nodding. "Some things never change, do they?"

"No," he replied, taking the cup from her as he studied her. Zelena seemed to be the same as when she left over a year ago and it was nice to talk with someone who continued to act the same around him, who didn't treat him as if he was made of glass. Leaning back, he smiled. "And I'm glad for it."

"Me too," she said, fixing her own cup of tea. She held out her cup. "To the things that never change?"

He nodded, clinking his cup against her. "And to dear friends."

"Cheers," she replied, sipping her tea as he did the same. She then picked up the plate of sandwiches and held them out to him. "Sandwich?"

"You first," he said, gently pushing the plate toward him. "You're the guest."

She smiled sheepishly. "Right. I guess I'm just used to being a hostess that I forgot."

"That's alright," he replied, watching as she took a sandwich before he took one for himself. "Do you entertain much in Oz?"

"Not as much as I would like," she admitted. "But Mother had to stop all social engagements so I'm slowly building it back up."

He nodded. "We haven't had any social engagements here."

Zelena gave him a sympathetic look. "Well, that's understandable."

"I know," he said. "And yet I'm certain my mother is rolling in her grave."

"Not at all," Zelena assured her. "She would understand your grief and the fact you have no one to serve as a hostess."

He sighed, knowing she had a point. "I will need to start entertaining again though."

"Well, I'm planning on staying for a few months to get some of my family's affairs in order here," she said. "That should get us to the Autumnal Festival. That should be plenty of time to plan the Autumnal Ball if you want."

"Oh," he replied, realizing that was coming up. "I hadn't thought about that yet."

She sighed, rolling her eyes with a good-natured smile. "Of course not. Well, good thing I'm here."

Robin chuckled, nodding. "I'll ask someone tomorrow to plan that."

"Why? I can do it," she replied, looking confused. "And I would be happy to plan the Autumnal Ball."

"Oh," he said, surprised. Zelena was more than capable of planning a grand ball and did seem like the natural choice. But deep down, he realized he wanted Regina to plan the Autumnal Ball. Perhaps both could do it together and the thought of the two most important women in his life now working together made him happier than he had been in a while.

He reached out and took Zelena's hand. "Let me just sleep on it and I'll talk to you about it tomorrow."

She tried to hide her disappointment with a smile but he could see it in her eyes and hear it in her voice as she said: "Alright."

"Tell me more about Oz," he said, picking up another biscuit as he hoped to lift her mood. "I want to hear everything you've been doing."

"There really isn't anything exciting to tell," she said. "It's very boring."

He shrugged. "I don't care. I just want to hear about what you're doing."

She laughed. "Even the boring parts?"

"Especially the boring parts," he told her, glad that she was smiling and laughing again. "I am all ears."

"Alright, then, don't say I didn't warn you," she replied before telling him about her year at Oz. She started from her journey to her home and Robin leaned back, ready to listen to his friend's stories.

As she spoke, he hoped that she and Regina would get along. Zelena hadn't been close to Marian but Robin believed it would be different with Regina. He just wanted the most important people in his life to get along. That wasn't too much to ask.

Right?

Regina knocked on Robin's door and took a step back, waiting for him to answer. He had sent a message to her the night before inviting her to lunch without Roland. Mal was watching her son, who was not pleased that he wasn't getting to eat with King. But Mal knew how to entertain him so Regina believed that his sour mood would pass quickly.

The door opened and Robin smiled when he saw her. "Right on time. Please, come on in," he said.

"Thank you," she replied, stepping into his room. "First, I have to say that my son is very put out that he was not invited as well."

"I do send my apologies to Roland," Robin said, closing the door behind them. "I promise that he will be invited to dinner soon."

She nodded, clasping her hands behind her back. "He will love that."

"Good," he said, approaching her. "We're just waiting for someone else and then we can begin."

"Someone else?" she asked, surprised as she considered who else he could've invited to lunch with her. "Who? Is it another member of the council?"

He shook his head. "It's a dear friend of mine. Her parents are old and their health is failing so she's had to return home to run their manor. She's visiting now and I want you two to meet."

"You do?" she asked, her heart speeding up. Why would he want her to meet his old friend who is clearly a woman? Did he want them to be good friends because he was planning to marry this friend?

She couldn't really think of another reason.

"Yes," he replied, holding out his hand. "I really would like my two dearest friends to get to know each other and perhaps be good friends as well."

There was such earnestness in his eyes that Regina found herself melting under his gaze. She slid her hand into his as she nodded. "I am happy to meet your friend," she said.

His eyes lit up and Regina knew she had made the right decision as he squeezed her hands. "I really do think you'll like each other," he said.

"Well, we have you in common," she replied. "That's a start, right?"

"Yes," he said as someone else knocked on the door. He released her hands as he walked backwards. "That should be her. I'll be right back."

Regina took a deep breath as she prepared to meet Robin's friend. She trusted Robin and so if he held this woman in high regard, she tried to convince herself that his friend was likely as kind and accepting as he was. That his friend wouldn't judge her for once being a bandit or a servant in another palace.

Everything would be fine.

"Hello, Robin." A beautiful red-haired woman in an opulent green dress entered the room, kissing Robin's cheek. "Thank you for the invitation."

"You're welcome," he said.

She turned and stopped, her smile falling when she saw Regina. "Oh. We're not alone?" she asked, glancing back at Robin.

Regina's stomach tightened as he shook his head, walking toward her. "Regina, this is my friend Lady Zelena of Oz. Zelena, this is Lady Regina, the new captain of my women's guard and one of my advisors," he said.

"Pleased to meet you," Regina replied, giving a little curtsy as she grew self-conscious of her simple outfit. She wore a white linen shirt with a ruffled collar paired with a brown skirt and black boots, though those were covered by her skirt.

Lady Zelena wore a ruffled green dress with gold ribbon accents. Her red hair fell in perfectly styled curls that were held back by a green bow. While her dress wasn't as expensive or elaborate as some dresses Regina had seen at court, it still stood in sharp contrast with Regina's outfit and made it clear that Lady Zelena was of a higher class than her.

"Same," Zelena replied in a tone that suggested otherwise. She then turned to Robin. "Captain of the women's guard?"

He nodded. "Regina inspired me to allow women to join the guard and I must say the results so far have been very promising."

"And were you a soldier yourself?" Zelena asked Regina, clearly wanting to seem supportive. But Regina could see that she did not approve of the idea by the disdain in her eyes. She wondered how Robin didn't see it.

"No," Regina replied. "I was a bandit."

Zelena's eyes widened. "A bandit?"

"Yes," Robin said, motioning to the table. "Let's have a seat and Regina can tell you about her life."

"That sounds wonderful," Zelena said, batting her eyes a few times as she took Robin's arm. He escorted her to the table while Regina stayed where she was.

Anger and hurt coursed through her. While she knew that she and Roland were safe in his palace, she was still cautious about who knew her story. Lady Zelena was important to Robin but she was still a stranger to Regina. He had no right to determine that she could tell her story to Lady Zelena without asking her first.

Robin paused after pulling out a chair for her, frowning. "Regina? Is something wrong?"

"Are you not feeling well?" Zelena asked, looking hopeful that Regina was about to leave so she could have Robin to herself.

Maybe Robin wanted that as well.

He frowned, approaching her. "Are you feeling unwell? Do you need me to send for my physician?"

"I…" Her words died in her throat as she looked into his eyes. Robin looked so concerned and earnest that her anger almost left her body. Perhaps he just had a momentary lapse where he let his excitement get the best of him. After all, she had never seen him so engaged or energized in her time at his court. If Lady Zelena could bring this out in him, perhaps she wasn't as bad as Regina thought.

But that didn't mean she had to trust her with her entire story just yet.

Regina swallowed before smiling. "I'm fine. Just lost in my thoughts, I guess."

"Good," he said, looking relieved. He held out his arm to her. "Come, we don't want the food to get cold."

"No, we don't," she said, taking his arm. He walked her to her chair and she glanced over at Zelena, who tried to hide her scowl by looking down at her plate. It made Regina's heart skip a beat and she knew that she had to be careful around her, no matter her relationship with Robin.

Once they all were seated, Robin had the women serve themselves first before taking his own food. As Regina cut into her brisket, Zelena asked: "So, Regina, why did you decide to become a bandit?"

"I didn't really decide to do that," Regina replied, trying not to sound annoyed with the question. "It was really my only option to keep both myself and my son alive."

"Son?" Zelena asked. "You have a son?"

Regina nodded. "I do. And everything I do, I do it for him more than myself."

"And what happened to his father?" she asked.

"He's gone," Regina replied, not wanting to explain her entire history to Zelena. She glanced at Robin, hoping he would help her.

Zelena, though, continued to press her. "What do you mean 'gone'? Did he abandon you? Is he dead?" she asked.

When it became clear that Robin would not intervene, Regina squared her shoulders and said: "He's gone. That's all you need to know."

"Alright," Zelena said, almost rolling her eyes as she sipped her wine. "No need to get testy."

She then shared a look with Robin and chuckled, which put Regina on edge. Regina wished she could come up with some excuse to leave but was unable to do so. It seemed she would have to continue telling her story to this woman while Robin just sat there smiling at her discomfort.

Maybe he wasn't as different from other rulers as she had hoped.

Lunch went well

Robin listened as Regina told Zelena about her past and he could tell that Zelena was as impressed with Regina as he was. It gave him hope that they could work together to plan the Autumn Ball and maybe even become friends as well.

"So, after your life of being a bandit, how did you end up in Robin's castle?" Zelena asked, looking between Regina and Robin.

"I rescued her and Roland during a snowstorm last winter," Robin said. "I saw them struggling and went out to get them. They've been here ever since and I have to say, I think it was the best decision I've made in a long time."

Zelena raised an eyebrow though she was still smiling. "Is that so?"

He nodded. "Yes. I've appreciated everything she's done to help train our new soldiers and she's proven to be an excellent advisor, especially when it comes to Mist Haven."

"Mist Haven?" Zelena asked before looking at Regina. "Wait, are you that Bandit Regina?"

Regina shifted in her chair, frowning. "I guess my reputation proceeds me."

Zelena's eyes widened as she nodded. "You can say that again."

"Well, it doesn't matter now," Robin said. "Regina now lives here in Sherwood with me and has my protection."

"Someone was certainly looking out for you that day," Zelena told Regina. "Knowing Robin, he will protect you with everything he has. You must feel a great deal of gratitude toward him."

Regina kept her eyes focused on her plate and her meal, which Robin now noticed was half-eaten. Her voice was soft as she said: "I suppose I do."

Concerned, Robin leaned closer to her. "Regina, are you alright? You've hardly eaten."

"Maybe she's not used to such rich foods," Zelena replied. "Maybe she needs something simpler?"

"I'm just not feeling well," Regina said, still not meeting his eyes as she set her napkin down. "I think I'm going to excuse myself."

She pushed her chair back and stood. He did as well, even more concerned for her as he took her arm. "Do you want me to send for the physician? Can I escort you back to your rooms?" he asked.

"I can make it there," she told him. "I think I just need to lie down and take a nap. That should help."

"Alright," he said, fighting his urge to go back with her and take care of her. He doubted she would appreciate that as she was not used to having someone who would tend to her like that. "May I check on you later?"

Her eyes softened as she nodded. "You may."

Relief filled him as he held out his arm to her. "Then let me escort you to the door and I'll see you later."

"Alright," she said, taking his arm.

He walked her to the door and opened it for her. Robin leaned down and kissed her cheek. "Feel better soon," he said.

"Thank you," she replied. "I hope you and Lady Zelena enjoy the rest of your meal together."

She slipped her arm from his and walked out into the hallway. Robin leaned out the door, watching as she approached her own door. Pausing, she looked back and he gave her a little wave. She returned it before stepping into her own room, closing the door behind her. He stepped back into his own room, closing the door as he fought the urge to run after her and take care of her.

"Well, it looks like it's just the two of us," Zelena said, walking toward him with his goblet in one hand and hers in the other. She held his out to him. "Shall we move toward your couch? Be more comfortable?"

"I suppose so," he said, taking the goblet from her. He then placed his hand on the small of her back as he guided her toward the couch. "I am sorry that Regina had to leave so early. I had hoped you two could spend more time together."

Zelena hummed as she sipped her cordial. "Well, perhaps we can do that another time. Right now, I'm just happy to spend some alone time with you. Have you thought more about the Autumnal Ball?"

Robin nodded, setting his goblet down. "You're right. It's time to have the ball again."

"Oh, Robin," she said, sighing happily. "I'm so glad you're finally seeing things my way."

There was something about the way she worded her statement that struck him as odd but he decided to brush it off for now. "I was hoping you would plan it with Regina," he told her.

Her smile dimmed and she tilted her head. "Why?"

"Because you two are the people I trust the most," he told her. "I also think that Regina can bring a new perspective to planning the ball."

"I doubt someone who lived in the woods could help plan a royal ball, Robin," she said, sounding horrified. "It would be cruel to ask her that."

Her concern for Regina touched him and he reached over to take her hand. "Regina grew up in the royal court of Mist Haven, training as a royal handmaiden. She probably has a better understanding of how to prepare for a ball than either of us," he replied.

"Yes, we should talk about that," Zelena said, setting her goblet down. "You can't keep harboring her, Robin. You need to turn her over to the queen."

Anger flared up inside him. "Absolutely not. I've offered her my protection and given her my word."

"Oh, Robin," she groaned. "You're too noble for your own good sometimes."

"Not this time," he replied, disliking how much Zelena sounded like Nottingham.

She huffed. "Do you want to make Mist Haven your enemy?"

"They certainly aren't my ally," Robin replied, his temper starting to simmer. "And if they were, they would need Sherwood far more than we would need them. They would be in no position to made demands of me."

"I'm more worried about war, Robin," Zelena said, glaring now. "Queen Snow White is determined to get her and I doubt your palace walls will deter her."

He nodded. "I'm certain my army will. And she would have to fight me herself."

"She has magic," she reminded him. "No bow and arrow can fight against that."

"I know," he replied, wanting to end this conversation. "This is all pointless. Queen Snow White will not find out that Regina is here. Regina and her son are safe and will continue to remain under my protection."

Zelena scowled. "I hope you don't come to regret that decision."

"I won't," he said firmly. "And I hope you will respect my decision."

She sighed, nodding. "I will. I just worry about you, Robin. I don't want to see you get hurt or do something that could jeopardize your throne."

Realizing she just had his best interest at heart, Robin leaned forward and held out his hand. As she slid hers into it, he gave her a reassuring smile. "I appreciate that. But I need you to trust me."

"I trust you," she assured him, squeezing his hand. "Don't ever think otherwise."

"I won't," he replied, feeling relieved. He gave her hand a little shake. "So, will you plan the Autumnal Ball with Regina?"

She took a deep breath. "If it means that much to you, then yes."

Happiness swept through him and he nodded. "Thank you, Zelena. I appreciate that. Just let me talk to Regina first before you do anything."

"I will," she said. "I won't do anything until you give me permission to go ahead."

"Good," he replied, leaning back. "Hopefully Regina will feel better by tonight so you can get started tomorrow."

She nodded, smiling again. "I am confident she will have a speedy recovery."

"So, I have my schedule cleared for another hour," Robin said, grinning. "What do you propose we do?"

"I propose a walk," she replied. "Help me get some inspiration for the ball as well as some fresh air."

He nodded, standing. "I think that's an excellent idea. Here."

Robin held his hand out to her. Zelena took it and he helped her to her feet. As she tucked her hand into his arm, he asked: "Do you want to go anywhere in particular?"

"The gardens," she said. "I love them."

"Me too," he replied, leading her toward the door. "Excellent choice."

They left the room and as they walked down the hallway, he glanced at Regina's door. His heart skipped a beat and he hoped she was feeling better. Robin hoped she would be as willing to plan the ball as Zelena was, knowing she would craft a ball his court had yet to see.

It certainly would be one to remember.

And hopefully establish Regina's place at court for good.

Stupid.

It was the one word that echoed around Regina's head after she left Robin's chambers. She did lay down on her bed, hugging one of the down-filled pillows to her chest as she tried not to cry. Once again she had placed her trust in a royal and once again, they had betrayed her.

When would she learn?

Royals were not to be trusted.

And they were definitely not her friends.

She had really thought that Robin had respected her. He had given her control over a whole group of his soldiers and trusted her to train them. Then he had also invited her to join his council. She thought he had valued her opinion. Had it all been a lie?

Had she really just been another pet he kept for his own amusement? A pet he could demand perform whenever he wanted and for whomever he wanted?

Was her story just that to him?

Did he not understand how dangerous it was?

No, of course he didn't, she reminded herself. He lived in the lap of luxury and had people who fell at his feet to make him happy. Robin never had to worry about where he would find his next meal or worry about losing his only shelter. Nor did he have a child, which doubled her concerns. He lived a charmed life in his castle. He couldn't understand anything about her story and she was foolish to think otherwise.

She had let her guard down and let herself get complacent but she wasn't going to make that mistake again. The best way to protect herself and Roland was to keep Robin at arm's length.

It was the only way.

Her only obstacle was Robin himself.

Robin was true to his word and checked on Regina that night. She asked Mal to say that she was still asleep due to the headache and hid in her bedroom, unable to look at him after what happened at lunch. Unfortunately, Robin then sent the royal physician the next morning to check on her. Regina convinced him that her long sleep cured her headache and he went to inform the king. She hoped that would help her avoid him for a bit longer until the sight of him no longer made her blood boil.

She didn't consider Robin's persistence.

Though she tried, she was only able to avoid him for the next two days before he cornered her in the armory. He crossed his arms as he stood in the doorway, blocking her only form of exit. "You're avoiding me," he said.

"No," she lied. "I've just been busy."

"I've seen you walk the other way when I've approached," he said. "So it's not just you being busy."

She shrugged. "I guess I just wasn't paying attention."

He raised an eyebrow. "Do you think I was born yesterday? I know you saw me and fled in the other direction. What is going on?"

"Nothing," she replied, staring at a spot over his shoulder rather than looking him in the eyes.

"Want to try that again and sound more convincing this time?" he asked, sounding bitter now. "And maybe while looking me in the eyes?"

She met his eyes, finding anger in them. That ignited the anger inside her. After everything he did, he had no right to be angry because she needed some space from him. "Why do you care?" she asked.

His arms dropped and hurt filled his eyes. "Because you're my friend and I'm worried that something is wrong. I want to help you."

"I'm your friend?" she scoffed. "That's rich."

"So there is something wrong," he replied, clasping his hands behind his back as he studied her.

She crossed her arms. "Who said anything was wrong? I'm just stating a fact. We're not friends."

"Is that so?" he asked, raising an eyebrow as he stepped closer. "Because I was under the impression we are."

"Then you have a funny way of showing it," she replied, trying to walk past him. "Excuse me, I came here to train."

She walked over to the row of swords, looking for a good one to use. Regina felt Robin's eyes on her but she did her best to appear unaffected by him even as her blood boiled. But she found a good sword and took it, ready to train in the next room.

Robin surprised her by grabbing a sword as well, giving it a few test swings. He nodded before saying: "I think I'll train with you."

"Well, it's your castle," she said, gritting her teeth. "I can't stop you."

"No," he replied, looking her over with a strange look in his eyes. "I suppose you can't."

That chilled her to her bone.

Robin entered the training room and took a fighting stance. He nodded to her. "Alright, I'm ready."

"You want us to spar?" she asked, surprised. She thought they would just retreat to their own corners and use the practice dummies. The thought of fighting with Robin hadn't crossed her mind.

"I do," he replied. "Something is bothering you, especially if you don't think we're friends. But if you don't want to talk, then we'll just fight."

She nodded, squaring her shoulders as she stepped closer to him. "Alright. And if I win, you need to drop this conversation."

"If I win, we will talk about it," he said, a steely look in his eyes. "I'm ready when you're ready."

"Alright," she replied, steeling herself again. She had beaten him once before and she was certain she could do it again. And then they would never talk about it again as she tried to figure out her new normal with Robin.

She raised her sword and waited for him to make the first move. Robin was gentlemanly enough to let her go first but she refused to play his game today. If he wanted this fight, he needed to start it.

Regina didn't know how long they stood staring at each other but finally, he nodded as if accepting something. He lunged first and she blocked him, moving easily out of his way. Anger coursed through her again. "Don't you dare go easy on me," she hissed.

"Oh, I won't," he replied, swinging his sword by his side. "I am just warming up."

"Good," she said. "So am I."

He swung again and she blocked him. But when she went to step away again, he surprised her with another swing. It was clear he had been serious about warming up, forcing her to be quick on her feet to block blow after blow. Just like she had asked, he did not go easy on her and proved to be good competition.

She also regretted letting him start this fight as he kept her on the defensive, forced to always block and protect herself. No matter what she tried, she could never gain the offensive and push him back. And so she had to keep moving, hoping he would tire soon and finally give her a chance to finally fight back.

"Ready to concede yet?" he asked her, pressing his blade against hers as she felt her knees start to buckle.

"No," she replied, gathering her strength and pushing him off her. She held up her sword. "You?"

"Depends," he said. "You ready to talk?"

She glared at him. "That's not the deal. If you concede, I win, which means we don't talk about this at all."

He nodded. "I know. Which is why I will only concede if you agree to talk. Otherwise, I am going to win."

"Is that so?" she asked, her anger flaring up again. She grew even more determined that he would not win their battle.

He would not control her again.

No one would control her again.

She swung her sword, hitting his with such force he staggered back. His eyes grew wide and she knew he had a little fear now. It sent a thrill toward her as she prepared for her next attack. Robin would be the one giving up, not her.

He blocked another blow and nearly fell over. Robin retreated to a corner and shook his hand, his brow furrowed. Feeling hopeful that he was reconsidering this fight, she asked: "Do you yield?"

"Will you talk?" he asked. "If not, then I do not yield. And you will find I can be very stubborn."

"Stubborn? More like controlling," she snapped, lunging toward him again.

Robin blocked her again, pushing back against her sword this time. "Controlling? How so?" he asked.

She shook her head. "You're not going to trick me into talking to you."

"I'm not trying to trick you into anything," he said, sliding his sword down hers before stepping back. "I just want to know why you're upset with me. Why do you think we're not friends? Why do you think I'm controlling?"

"Listen to yourself," she spat. "You're just worried about yourself."

He shook his head. "I'm worried about you. I care about you."

"You have a funny way of showing it," she said, advancing toward him again.

"What do you mean?" he asked, blocking her blow. "Haven't I shown you nothing but kindness since you've arrived?"

She fought him as she said: "You've again proven that kindness from a royal always comes with strings."

He pushed back against her again. "What strings?"

"No," she said, moving away from him. "You will not trick me into giving you exactly what you want."

"I'm not," he replied. "But you seem to want to talk. So just talk."

She shook her head. "I'm not going to give you the satisfaction."

He nodded. "Then we keep fighting."

"Fine," she replied, planting her feet and bracing herself. "You'll have to get tired eventually."

"I could say the same for you," he said, raising his sword. "En guard."

She huffed, watching him. They stood staring at each other, neither moving until she asked: "Well?"

"Your move," he replied.

"Is that so?" she asked, still seething. "Still ordering me around?"

He shook his head. "Just an observation."

Regina realized there was no chance for her to win. They were both determined and would fight until they both collapsed. And then he would likely keep needling her until his own curiosity was satisfied. Her only choice was to just walk away – even if it meant leaving the palace as well. She didn't want to uproot Roland again but she would do it if it meant finally finding the freedom she always wanted.

"I'm done," she said, throwing her sword down. "You can make your 'observations' with someone else."

"What?" Robin asked, looking confused.

She just walked away, done with everything. Regina wasn't going to give him any more answers. He could figure it out on his own.

The sound of footsteps followed her and she silently cursed. She stopped at the door, her hand gripping the door handle. "Please leave me alone," she said.

"Please just talk to me," he pleaded, which surprised her. She hadn't expected a king to beg and she almost conceded but then he kept talking. "I just want…"

"You want, you want, you want!" She pushed away from the door and spun around to face him, feeling fire burning in her veins. "You keep saying you're not like other royals but, no, you are! You all just only care about yourselves and getting what you want, fuck everyone else and what they want!"

He took a step back as his eyes widened. "I didn't mean…"

"Of course not," she said. "But you did. You wanted me to tell you what was bothering me even though I didn't want to. And you wanted me to tell a complete stranger about my life story even though I didn't want to."

"Is that what this is about?" he asked, sounding almost dismissive. "Why didn't you say anything?"

She clenched her fist to keep from strangling him. "I tried but you didn't get it. You were just so excited to show me off to your friend like I was some sort of pet."

He frowned. "That's not what I was doing."

"But it was," she snapped. "I barely met this woman or exchanged any conversation with her before you were demanding that I tell her my story. Do you know how scared I was to tell you my story? Telling the wrong person could've cost me my life – could've hurt Roland. I thought I could trust you. I thought you understood. And then you did that."

"You could've said something," he replied, stuck on that. "You could've said no."

Frustration filled her and made tears prick her eyes as she shook her head. "You just don't understand," she said.

"Then make me understand," he said, anger in his voice. "I want to understand."

"It's not my job to make you understand!" she yelled back. "Just think about it yourself. You are the king. This is your palace. My son and I are essentially guests. Go from there."

He frowned, stepping back. "You think I would throw you and Roland out if you said no?"

She shrugged. "I didn't before that moment. But with you standing there and demanding I share my story to a stranger…I realized you were just like every other royal I had ever met. Selfish and fickle. And my son's safety is in your hands."

"I didn't demand anything," he insisted, looking even more angry. "It was just a request."

"Funny, it wasn't worded that way," she shot back.

He crossed his arms. "And so your trust in me is so easily broken?"

She let out a little laugh this time, unable to help herself. "How fucking typical. You're making yourself out to be the victim. My trust is broken because you broke it, Your Majesty. And it's on you to earn it back. But I doubt you will.

"Good day," she said, dropping into a curtsy while maintaining eye contact with him. She then straightened up again before walking away, preventing him from getting the last word in their argument.

Regina did not stop until she reached her apartment. She closed the door and threw the deadbolt for extra measure though it didn't seem Robin was chasing after her. Tears ran down her cheeks as she stumbled over to the couch, curling up on it as she sobbed. Pain filled her chest, pain she hadn't felt since she realized that Daniel was never coming back to her. Robin had been the first person she had trusted since Daniel and once again, it had only hurt her.

Again, she had learned the hard way that she was just better off alone.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7: Olive Branch

Robin nocked another arrow and raised his bow, focusing on his target. Though he tried to clear his mind, his thoughts were screaming at him. He couldn't stop replaying his conversation with Regina, trying to process it. It had been clear that she had been angry and had closed herself off again but he couldn't believe it was because of something he had done. She could've said no during their lunch and opted not to tell her story. And Zelena had been very understanding as well as sympathetic. He refused to believe that was the real reason she was so upset and wondered if it just felt safer for her to lash out at him.

Maybe then her trust in him wasn't broken after all.

And maybe he could then forgive how she was treating him. But that could never happen unless she was honest with him.

He released his arrow and it flew past the target until it bounced off the stone wall behind it, landing in a pile of other arrows that had also missed the target. Robin let out a growl as he threw his bow down, frustrated that not even archery could calm him down like usual. Regina certainly had gotten under his skin.

"FUCK!" he yelled, running his hands through his hair. "Shit!"

"Robin? Is something wrong?"

Looking toward the door, Robin was surprised to see Friar Tuck there. He hadn't seen his old mentor in some time and Robin walked toward him with his arm outstretched. "Tuck! It's good to see you," he said.

"I want to say the same about you but I can sense something is troubling you," Tuck said, shaking Robin's hand. There was a concerned look in his eyes. "Do you want to talk about it?"

"Maybe," Robin said, looking back at all the arrows surrounding the target rather than protruding from it. "This certainly isn't helping."

Tuck shook his head. "It isn't. Do you want to find some place where we can sit?"

"That sounds like a good idea," Robin said, motioning toward the door. "Follow me."

He led Tuck back into a small chamber where there was a table and chairs. Robin didn't know why it was there but he certainly was glad it was now as they took seats across from each other. Tuck clasped his hands as he asked: "What is going on?"

"It's Regina," Robin said before telling Tuck the entire story. As he spoke, his anger grew again and he stood to pace the room, needing to release the energy building up inside him.

When he finished, he turned back to Tuck. "It's unfair. I think I'm being punished for her past dealings with Snow White and I don't appreciate her taking her anger out on me."

Tuck looked thoughtful as he motioned to the chair Robin had abandoned. "Why don't you sit down?"

"Alright," Robin said, sliding back into the chair. "What is it?"

"I know you have a good heart and genuinely care for everyone, but sometimes, you don't really think things through," Tuck replied.

That surprised Robin and he narrowed his eyes. "What do you mean?"

"You are a kind and compassionate ruler who tries to treat people fairly and not act like you are better than them," he said. "However, you have never had to answer to anyone more powerful than you, someone who had power over every aspect of your life."

"Well, no, I haven't," Robin agreed, not sure where his mentor was going with this line of thought.

Tuck nodded. "So you don't understand what that feels like or why people will still be afraid of you no matter how kind and compassionate you are. It will always be there in the back of their minds and nothing you do will ever erase it completely."

Robin's anger subsided. "I didn't realize that."

"I know," Tuck replied. "Most people, though, do trust that you will not just dismiss them for no reason. They do have more security than other servants in other castles."

"Like Snow White's," Robin said softly, thinking of how Regina had to run for her life from the castle where she grew up.

Tuck nodded. "Exactly. Regina hasn't had much security and so has learned she can't rely on anyone but herself. You've inadvertently reinforced that belief."

"I just asked her to tell Zelena about herself," Robin said, still confused. "I don't see how that's anything like what Snow White did to her."

"It's the same in that it was still a betrayal," Tuck replied.

Robin frowned. "How?"

Tuck rubbed his chin. "Let's put it this way. Imagine that Regina invited you over to lunch and when you arrived, there was a strange man there and she introduced him as a dear friend of hers."

"Alright," Robin said, letting the picture form in his mind. He saw a man smiling and being affectionate with Regina, making his heart skip a beat and his blood boil. Robin had to remind himself that it was not real.

"Good," Tuck said. "Now, let's say she just barely tells you his name before she's saying you have to tell this man about Marian and your son."

Robin felt like the blood in his veins turned to ice as his heart stopped. His stomach twisted as he thought of telling some stranger about his loss. It was something personal that he rarely shared and he would feel betrayed if someone he had trusted with the story of Marian insisted he tell it to someone he didn't know.

And then he felt as if someone had knocked him flat on his back as he groaned. "Shit."

"You understand now?" Tuck asked, studying him.

"Yes," Robin said, leaning forward to put his face in his hands. "I was a complete wanker toward her. No wonder she is so angry with me. I would be angry with me."

He took a deep breath before lowering his hands, looking at Tuck again. "How do I fix this?"

"Well, I would say to not look at it like fixing anything," Tuck replied. "You broke Regina's trust and you need to try to build it again. But you may never be able to do that. You'll need to make peace with that."

"How do I start to rebuild that trust?" Robin asked, his stomach turning at the thought he could lose Regina's friendship forever.

Tuck sighed. "I don't think I can answer that except to start with a genuine and truly contrite apology."

Robin nodded. "I believe I can do that."

"I do too," Tuck said, standing. He hesitated for a moment before saying: "I would also be careful around Lady Zelena."

"You would?" Robin asked, surprised by his councilor's words. "She's my dearest friend. Why shouldn't I trust her?"

Tuck sighed. "I know you've known her since you were children but I think it's important to remember that people change. And I think Lady Zelena cares more for herself and for status than anything else."

Robin frowned, wondering if Tuck was confusing Zelena with someone else. "Lady Zelena is one of the most selfless people I know. She cares for her parents as their health fails and she cares about me."

"I believe part of her does still care about you," Tuck said. "I just fear her own ambition is stronger. For your sake, I hope I'm wrong."

He patted Robin's shoulder. "Focus on apologizing to Regina for now. Just be careful around Lady Zelena."

Robin nodded, though he doubted he needed to be wary of his friend. Tuck was right that he needed to focus on Regina for now. Standing, he put his bow away and collected all the arrows. He placed the ones that were damaged in a bin for the armorer to determine if they were salvageable or not. The others he placed back in a quiver before leaving the training area to head back to his room to consider how best to apologize to Regina.

Sleep did not come to Regina. Her anger had long died down and now all she felt was grief. Regina grieved the friendship she thought she had had with King Robin and the hope that he would be different than every other royal she had ever met. It seemed deep down, he was just like the rest of them after all.

Regina didn't know if she was more disappointed in him or herself.

Probably herself.

Huffing, she pushed the blankets back and climbed out of bed. She decided to get something warm to drink from the kitchen. After checking on Roland to confirm he was still asleep, she believed he would be safe in their apartment and she left, wrapped in her robe. Hopefully it would be a short trip and she would be back soon.

She entered the hallway and purposefully avoided looking at Robin's room. Part of her wanted to barge in and interrupt his sleep like he had done hers but she knew that wouldn't solve anything. It certainly wouldn't make her better and could further jeopardize her life here in the palace. So she forced herself to walk toward the kitchen instead.

The palace was quiet as most people slept. One guard patrolled the hallway, stopping as she approached him. She explained she was going to the kitchen and he nodded, continuing his patrol as she walked in the opposite direction. Regina entered the throne room and started to walk across it, crossing into a pool of moonlight created by the large windows in the room.

"Who's there?"

Regina stopped, slowly turning toward the direction of the voice. Her eyes continued to adjust to the dim lighting as she made out a hunched form on one of the thrones. She swallowed, not sure if she was happy or annoyed that Robin also wasn't able to sleep and instead sitting on his throne.

He tilted his head before asking: "Regina?"

"Yes," she said, knowing there was no point in hiding. "I'm just going to the kitchen for something warm to drink to help me sleep."

"So sleep is elusive tonight," he said with a sigh.

She crossed her arms, not willing to give him whatever sympathy he sought. "And whose fault is that?"

He sighed. "Mine. I was a complete wanker and I hurt you."

"Yes," she said, surprised by his admission. "You did."

"Do you want to leave the palace?" he asked, sounding anguished. "If you do, I will help you find a home for you and Roland and then I will leave you alone. I promise."

The offer was tempting but she found it also hurt. She swallowed as she asked: "Do you want me to leave?"

As her eyes adjusted to the darkness, she saw him shake his head. "But I understand if you want to leave. If you can't stand to be around me after how I hurt you. And if you don't want me anywhere near Roland. I understand I have forfeited my place in your lives."

"That's…a bit dramatic," she said, not sure if she was annoyed or amused. She also realized that though she had questioned her relationship with Robin, she had never even thought about keeping him away from her son.

She didn't really know what that meant.

"Is it though?" he asked. "It would be understandable after what I did to you. I didn't respect your wishes and made you feel like you had no choice, that you couldn't say no to me. I didn't treat you as a person."

"Wow," she replied, shocked. "You realized all of that in only a few hours?"

He nodded before grimacing. "Well, I had some help. Which probably makes things even worse that I didn't completely realize it on my own…"

"I wouldn't say that," she replied, wishing he had just listened to her in the first place but understanding that maybe only a neutral third party would've been able to get through to him. After all, he was stubborn. She understood stubbornness very well.

She took a step forward. "Who helped you figure it out?"

"My old mentor, Friar Tuck," he replied. "We had a good talk."

"He sounds like a very wise man," she said, relieved that it wasn't Zelena. Even though it would've shown that Zelena understood her struggle, she still would've been annoyed that he listened to her rather than Regina.

Robin nodded. "Yes, he is."

She took a deep breath. "So now what?"

"Whatever you want," he said. "If you want to leave, I'll support that. If you want to stay but want me to keep my distance, I'll support that too. I'll support you."

"I want to talk," Regina said. "Can we do that?"

He nodded again and motioned to the throne next to him. "You can sit here if you want." She hesitated for a moment. "On the throne?"

"Yes," he said. "Right now, it's just another chair."

"That's an interesting take," she replied, walking toward him. She climbed the two stairs to the dais and sat next to him on the throne. Regina took a deep breath and looked out over the room, finding it bigger from this side. "Wow."

He chuckled. "It's an interesting perspective, right?"

She nodded. "Yes, it is. I can't imagine what it's like when it's filled with people."

"Intimidating," he said. "Especially when all those eyes are on you."

"I don't think I could do it," she replied, turning toward him. "I think I would prefer to lurk in the background."

He hummed. "I think you deserve to have more light on you than you think. But for now, these aren't thrones. They are just two chairs and we are the only people in this room. No one else."

"Right," she said, focusing on him and not the empty room. "So I guess my main question is why? Why did you put me in that position?"

"I wanted you to be friends," he admitted, grimacing. "I wanted you two to be as close as well."

Regina felt her anger reignite. "Well, you blew that."

He sighed. "I know."

"Do you?" she asked, not sure if he really understood or if he was just placating her. "Do you really understand what you have done?"

"Yes," he replied, looking into her eyes. Even in the dark, she could see the anguish and guilt. "I didn't build trust between you and Zelena. I destroyed yours in me."

She blinked, surprised. "Well, yes."

He sighed. "I ruined everything."

"Well, I wouldn't go that far," she said. "But it still hurts."

"Of course," he replied. "All because I was too impatient. Because I acted like we were all already friends."

She hummed. "You did. I had no reason to trust Lady Zelena. To be honest, I still have no reason to trust her and I worry what she may do now that she knows about my past with Snow White."

A hard look came to Robin's eyes. "I'll make sure she doesn't do anything to hurt you."

"I wish I could believe you," she whispered, a lump forming in her throat.

"I'm not asking you to," he replied. "I am going to prove it you."

She swallowed, taking a deep breath as she realized that alone meant more to her than anything else he could've said. "I hope you do."

He nodded. "I appreciate the chance."

"You're welcome," she replied. "Though I hope you understand why I have to keep my distance from Lady Zelena."

"I know," he said before sighing. "I was going to ask you and Zelena to plan the Autumn Ball but I suppose I ruined my own plans."

She shifted in her chair, not sure how she felt that he had wanted her to plan such an important event at court. "Maybe it's for the best. Lady Zelena is no doubt far more suited to plan such a ball than I."

He frowned. "Don't put yourself down like that. I think you would bring a new perspective to the ball that she would not be able to consider."

"Well, maybe I can tell you if I have any ideas," Regina said. "But I doubt I will."

"If you do, I'll be happy to listen," he replied, smiling. It then fell before he said: "I am also sorry for not listening to you earlier and for pushing you, for being so selfish to think that I could get you to talk to me if I bested you. That wasn't fair."

She swallowed, feeling validated and victorious to hear him admit that. "No, it wasn't. I didn't like being backed into a corner."

"I wouldn't either," he replied. "I forgot the Golden Rule."

"The Golden Rule?" she asked, confused.

He nodded. "Always treat others how you would want them to treat you. It's a lesson we're taught from childhood to adulthood."

"Oh," she said. "I've never heard that before but I like it."

"I guess it must be a Sherwoodian teaching," he said, rubbing his chin. "But it is how I try to live my life, especially as king. However, it is clear I don't always succeed."

She reached out and placed her hand on his. "It's how you respond when you fail. So far, you've taken accountability and are trying to make amends for how you treated me. I think that says a lot about you."

He gave her the ghost of a smile. "You think so?"

"I do," she said. "Though you still have to work to earn some of my trust back."

"I know," he replied. "And I will do whatever I need to do so."

Regina nodded. "I believe you will but only time will tell."

"Of course," he said. He leaned closer to her. "Will you come to the Autumn Ball? I would be honored to have you there."

"I've never been to a ball before," she replied. She paused for a moment before saying: "Well, never as a guest. I don't know if I will be able to fit in."

He shook his head. "Then don't. Just be yourself."

She blew out some air. "Easy for you to say. You're royal and male. It's not easy for women, especially one of my station."

"You're right," he replied, nodding. "But you do belong there as much as them. You're the only one who can show them that."

"I hate that you're right," she told him, knowing he had a point.

He sighed. "I'm not going to force you to come, Regina. Just know that you are invited and that you deserve to be there. And if you do come, may I be so bold as to ask you to save a dance for me?"

She bit her lip, looking at him. Hope filled his eyes but she could see that he was trying to fight it, not wanting to look too eager. It clearly meant a lot to him to have a dance with her but that he would not force her to do so. She believed he learned his lesson.

"If I decide to come, I will save a dance for you," she said, placing her hand over his. "Promise."

"Thank you," he replied, giving her a small smile.

Regina nodded as a familiar sensation washed over her. The hair on the back of her neck stood on end as she realized they were being watched. She frowned as she turned her head, scanning the dark room. A vaguely human-shaped dark figure hurried through a far door and she stood, her heart pounding in her chest. "Someone was here," she said.

He stood, looking around the room as well with a frown. "Who was it?"

"I don't know," she said, pointing to the door. "They rushed out through that door."

"Maybe it was a guard who didn't want to interrupt us," he suggested, though he didn't look convinced. "I'll see if I can find out who it was."

She nodded, glad he believed her. "Thank you."

He clasped his hands behind his back. "I believe I've held you from getting something warm to drink. I won't delay you any longer."

"Right," she said, having forgotten about why she had originally left her room. She looked him over before asking: "Do you want to come with me?"

"I would love to," he said. "If it's not an imposition?"

She shook her head. "I think I would now like the company."

He smiled, his eyes shining even in the darkness. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," she said, walking with him off the dais. She turned back, having forgotten that they had been sitting on the thrones. "I guess they really are just chairs."

"They are," he replied, nodding. "A lot of the monarchy is really just the power and importance the people put into the position. I try to remember that."

He then held out his arm to her. "Come on. Let's get go get that warm drink."

She hooked her arm with his and nodded. They left the throne room together and Regina felt as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Leaving her bed was the right decision and she was glad she listened to Robin. Everything wasn't better yet but she felt they were now taking steps in the right direction.

They just needed to stay on this path and maybe – just maybe – everything would go her way for once.

Robin stood in front of his mirror, studying his outfit for the Autumnal Ball. He wore mostly brown, including his jacket which was lined with brown fur, and a gold vest to invoke the colors of autumn. Brown pants and boots completed his look as well as a white sash with several medals on it to remind everyone that he was the king as he did not have to wear a crown to this event. He was glad because though the crown he often wore was lightweight, it was still tight around his head. At least he would be comfortable tonight.

John approached him with the ceremonial sword Robin wore for formal events. He held it out. "Do you want to wear this?" he asked.

"Not today," Robin said, shaking his head. "It'll just get in the way while dancing."

"I'll put it back then," John said, nodding. "Then we can leave whenever you're ready."

Robin nodded, taking one last look at himself in the mirror before saying: "We can leave once you're done."

John returned from storing his sword and clasped his hands behind his back. "I'm done."

"Then we can go," Robin said. "Lady Zelena is no doubt already waiting for us."

"She likely is," John agreed, opening the door. "After you, Your Majesty."

Robin rolled his eyes as he walked past John, exiting his room. He glanced at the door leading to Regina's apartment, wondering if she had changed her mind and would come to the ball after all. She had gone to the royal seamstress not long after their late-night talk but he didn't know what she ordered. It took all his self-control not to inquire and invade her privacy. He needed to trust her and work on proving that she could trust him again. So he just assumed that she had ordered winter clothes for herself and Roland while also hoping that she had asked for a gown for the ball as well.

John clapped him on the back. "Are you coming? Or do you want to talk with Lady Regina first?" he asked.

"I'm coming," he said. "I can talk to Regina tomorrow. I don't want her to think I'm trying to pressure her into coming to the ball."

"Still working on rebuilding her trust?" John asked.

Robin nodded as they continued down the hallway. "I think we're making progress but I don't want to push her. I didn't do a great job at respecting her before and I don't want to make that mistake again."

"I don't think you are," John assured him. "And I think she sees that."

"You do?" Robin asked as hope filled him.

He nodded. "I've watched you both the past few weeks and slowly, she's starting to be more like she was with you before your fight. Relaxed, open and not afraid to speak her mind to you."

Relief filled Robin. "Good. I want her to feel comfortable here and to be herself, especially with me."

"I know you do," John replied. "And I think she's getting there."

"I hope so," Robin said, entering the atrium by the palace's ballroom. Zelena was already there, dressed in a dark green gown while her red hair was curled, half up and half down. Her eyes lit up and she lifted her skirt to hurry over to Robin.

She hugged him before pulling back, smiling. "You look very handsome."

"Thank you," he said, happy to be there with her. "You look very beautiful. Green really is your color."

"It is, isn't it?" she asked, smiling proudly. She then smoothed down his coat. "I wish you had worn green as well. You look very good in it too and we would've matched."

He raised an eyebrow. "It is tradition to wear autumnal colors to the ball. Green is not one of those colors."

She waved her hand. "Everyone else can wear autumnal colors. You're the king. You should stand out from the others."

"You know that's not the type of king I want to be," he said, disappointment creeping through him. Zelena knew he didn't like to set himself apart from anyone else and wanted to earn his court's respect, leading them more as an equal than like a god.

"I know," she replied. "But it doesn't mean you can never stand out. Leaders shouldn't blend in."

Robin was saved from answering as a servant girl approached them, curtsying. "Many guests are already gathered outside. Shall we let them in?" she asked.

He nodded. "Yes, go ahead."

"I guess we should take our places," Zelena said, taking his arm. "We should be by the door so people can greet us as they walk into the ballroom."

"Of course," he replied, feeling uncomfortable with how she positioned herself to be by his side like his queen. He reminded himself that she had planned the ball and so it was only proper for her to be there.

It still felt wrong, though.

The doors opened and guests began to walk toward him. Robin stood up straighter and smiled, ready to greet everyone before they went into the ballroom. A herald positioned himself by Robin, properly introducing everyone as they bowed or curtsied to Robin. He acknowledged them and told them to enjoy themselves.

Zelena squeezed his arm. "The turnout is amazing," she said. "Everyone is so happy you agreed to have the ball again."

"I can tell," he said, noting the excitement on his nobles' faces. Many thanked him as they passed by him and he knew they would have a good time at the ball. It would've been what Marian wanted.

He patted her hand and smiled. "I guess this is where I say you were right and thank you for forcing me to do this."

She smirked as she nodded. "Yes, it is. And you're very welcome. You should know by now that I'm usually right."

"I guess," he said, not enjoying this banter like usual. Something about her tone put him off, though he wasn't sure why.

He pushed it aside and motioned to the door. "Most of the guests have entered. Shall we enter the ballroom?"

She nodded. "Yes, let's."

They turned around and she took his arm again, ready for their entrance. Robin was about to signal the servants to open the doors when the herald announced one more guest, his voice echoing in Robin's head and heart.

"Presenting Lady Regina of Sherwood."

He turned back and his heart stopped when he saw Regina. She wore a beautiful red satin gown with golden leaves imprinted on her skirt. Little pearls were sewn along her neckline and white lace edged her sleeves, matching the gloves she wore. Her hair was curled and piled atop her head with little leaves woven into them. A red ribbon was tied around her neck as she did not own any other jewelry. But Robin didn't think she needed jewels to sparkle.

She shone on her own.

"Regina," he said, hearing how breathless he sounded. "You came."

"I did," she replied, nodding. "You are right. I belong here as much as everyone else in that ballroom. Besides, I think I deserve a night of fun."

He smiled, pleased to hear her say that. "Yes, I agree."

Zelena stepped forward with a smile that Robin didn't like. "Regina, this is a surprise," she said.

"Lady Zelena," Regina said, curtsying. Robin noted that Zelena did not return the gesture and that annoyed him. But he held his tongue for now, deciding to talk to her about it after the ball.

"We're about to enter," Zelena said, motioning to the ballroom. "You should head inside."

Robin held out his arm. "I'll walk you to the door."

Zelena frowned. "You can't be seen until you make your grand entrance. Everyone may be confused if they see you in the doorway."

"I can walk in on my own," Regina replied, gently lowering his arm. "Thank you, though, for the offer."

"I'll see you inside," he said, stepping back as he clasped his hands behind his back. "Save me a dance, please?"

She nodded. "I will."

He thanked her and watched as she entered the ballroom. The doors were closed again and Zelena crossed her arms. "Let's take a moment so you can clear your head. I don't know what spell that woman has on you but you need to shake it."

"Regina doesn't have a spell on me," he said, annoyed at Zelena's tone. "She is a valued friend and trusted advisor. I would hope you would at least treat her with the same civility and respect you show my other advisors."

"She was a bandit," Zelena replied, glaring at him. "She was raised a servant. She is nothing like the rest of your advisors. This Marian all over again."

Anger filled Robin as he pulled his arm away from her. "What does that mean?"

The doors, though, opened and Zelena grabbed his arm. She gritted her teeth into something that resembled a smile. "Not now. Just smile and enjoy yourself."

"Do not order me around like that," he said, talking through his teeth. "We will talk about this later."

"Yes," she replied, almost hissing through her teeth. "We will."

They entered the ballroom as everyone gathered inside clapped. Robin escorted Zelena to the middle of the floor before bowing to his guests while she curtsied. He then realized they would have to start the dancing and gritted his teeth as he signaled for the music to start. The musicians played a waltz as he bowed to Zelena. She curtsied before he placed his hand on her waist and took her free hand in his. With her other hand on his shoulder, they began dancing around the small circle created by the guests as they waited for the appropriate time to join him and Zelena on the dance floor.

As he twirled Zelena around the floor, he looked over her shoulder rather than into her eyes. He was still too angry with her to do that. Instead, he let his mind wander as he recalled dancing with Marian in the past. Robin remembered how her eyes sparkled and how she laughed, even during a serious dance like the waltz. She always enjoyed life and made him appreciate everything that much more.

He really missed her now.

The music stopped as people applauded. Robin stepped back and bowed to Zelena before clasping his hands behind his back. He turned to his guests, forcing a smile as he said: "The dance floor is now open!"

"The next song should be a reel," Zelena said, no trace of her anger or annoyance in her eyes or voice. "Shall we partner together?"

"You have some gall after what you said out there," he said, taking another step away from her. "I need some space, Zelena."

Her smile dropped and her eyes turned cold. "Are you serious right now?"

"Yes, I am," he said. "Excuse me."

Zelena tried to step forward but a man intercepted her, holding out his hand. "May I have this dance, Lady Zelena?" he asked.

She shot Robin a look before smiling, taking the man's hand. "You may."

Robin turned and walked off the dance floor, deciding he needed a few moments to calm down before he joined in the dancing again. And he also needed space from Zelena as he tried to process what she had just said. It felt like everything had been turned on its head and he didn't know which way was up anymore.

"Whiskey, Your Majesty," a servant said, holding out a glass filled with whiskey to him. "Lady Regina asked that I bring this to you."

"Oh," he replied, surprised as he took the glass. "Thank you."

The servant bowed and walked away as Robin took a sip of the whiskey, feeling it burn his throat and warm his body. It felt appropriate for his mood and he hoped a few more sips would help calm his nerves.

Robin moved toward the tables laden with food, deciding to get something to eat while enjoying his whiskey. As he looked over his options, a familiar voice offered a suggestion. "I would recommend the beef pastry. They are particularly delicious," Regina said.

"Then I think I'll have it," he replied, placing a few pastries on a plate. "Would you like one?"

"Yes, please," she said, sipping her own glass of whiskey. "Thank you."

She took one of the pastries and bit into it. After swallowing, she said: "This is amazing. Do you think the cooks would make this more often if I asked?"

He nodded. "I believe they would."

"Wonderful," she replied. "I think Roland would really like it."

"I have no doubt of that either," he agreed, wondering if there was a food Roland didn't like. With a sinking feeling, he remembered how Regina spoke about scrounging for food for her and Roland so he likely appreciated everything he had now and was just glad to have it.

She finished her beef pastry before frowning, placing her hand on his arm. "Are you alright? You look upset."

He sighed, motioning for her to follow him. She kept her hand on his arm as he guided her to a more secluded part of the ballroom. "Zelena said something that upset me and is angry with me about it," he said.

"She is angry that you're upset?" she asked, looking incredulous. "So she's not apologizing for upsetting you?"

"Right now, no," he replied, looking over to where Zelena laughed at something Keith said. It angered him even more. "She thinks I'm being dramatic and blowing things out of proportion."

Regina hummed. "Well, in my experience with you, you really don't tend to do that. You're probably the least dramatic royal I have ever met."

Her words surprised him and he turned back to her. "Even after everything that happened between us?" he asked.

"Yes," she replied. "You can be stubborn and hard-headed, yes. Maybe broody. But you still weren't dramatic."

"I can admit to being stubborn and hard-headed," he agreed, amused by her description of him. "And I guess I can brood."

She chuckled. "I found you sitting on your throne in the dark. You can brood."

He grinned sheepishly. "Yes, I suppose I can."

"I'll take someone quietly brooding on their own over someone who is overdramatic and makes their issues everyone's issues," she said. "Every time."

"Good to know," he replied, wondering what she used to witness back in Mist Haven but knowing not to ask now. This was supposed to be a fun and carefree night for her. She didn't need to be reminded of her past.

He finished the rest of his drink and placed it on the tray of a passing servant. Turning to Regina, he held out his hand. "May I have this dance?"

She glanced at the dance floor warily as she bit her lip. "I don't know how well I'll be able to dance. It's been a long time since I had dance lessons back in Mist Haven and I don't think my refresher lessons with Mal did much good."

"I think you're underestimating yourself," he replied, fighting the gnawing feeling inside his chest at the thought of her dancing with Mal. "However, this dance is a rather easy one and we do not change partners for it. You will be with me the entire time."

"Promise?" she asked, still looking hesitant.

He nodded. "Promise."

She slid her hand into his and he wrapped his fingers around hers. Robin escorted her to the dance floor and noticed how Zelena scowled. He didn't flinch and just kept walking forward, not caring what she thought. She couldn't control who his friends were nor who he danced with tonight.

They stopped at the emptiest part of the dance floor and Robin hoped Regina would feel more comfortable if she was away from the others. He faced her and bowed while she curtsied. "To the left, center and then to the right," he told her. "I'll go right, center and then to the left."

"Okay," she said, looking relieved. She stepped to the left and he moved to the right while they still held hands. They moved back to the center before going in opposite directions yet again.

"Back to center," he told her. "And then press your left hand to my right and we'll move clockwise."

She followed his instructions and they walked in a small circle until they were back where they started. "I bow, you curtsy and we repeat except alternating hands and which way we walk in a circle," he said.

"Alright," she replied, curtsying as he bowed. "I think I can handle that."

"Don't worry. I'm here to help you not judge you," he assured her. "I just want you to have fun. It doesn't have to be perfect."

She took a deep breath. "Alright. I'll try to just have fun."

He smiled as they pressed their hands together again. "Good. I know it won't be easy but try to ignore everyone else. They don't matter."

"I guess," she said. "You'll help me if I get too much in my head?"

"Of course," he assured her as they walked in the small circle again. "And you'll let me know if I start brooding?"

She laughed before nodding. "I will."

The song ended and Robin bowed to her as she curtsied. Another song began and he held her hand, asking: "Do you want to dance some more?"

"I do," she said. "If you don't mind. I'm sure there are a lot of people who want to dance with the king."

"Every lady wants to dance with me," he replied, recalling another reason why he had been hesitant to throw another ball. "To them, I need a wife and they want to be queen. My dance card could be filled all night long but I would rather choose who I dance with rather than be forced to dance with everyone woman here."

Regina's cheeks slowly turned pink. "And you choose me?"

He nodded. "I choose you."

"Well, I hope you don't come to regret that choice," she told him.

"I doubt I will," he assured her, taking her hand. "Now, we're behind the other dancers. Shall we catch up or wait for the next song? Your choice."

She looked around the room, watching as the others broke off into groups of four to dance together. Regina focused on him again as she said: "I think it's best if we wait for the next song."

He nodded, holding out his arm to her. "I agree. It shouldn't be much longer but why don't we get something to drink before we resume dancing?"

"That sounds lovely," she replied before chuckling. "I almost sound like a noblewoman."

"You are a noblewoman," he told her. He recalled her entrance and smiled. "You had yourself announced as Lady Regina of Sherwood."

She nodded, smiling softly for a few moments before frowning. "Was that wrong?"

He shook his head, wanting to reassure her. "Not at all! I am honored you see Sherwood as your home."

"I do," she replied. "And so I am Lady Regina of Sherwood. I hope I always remain so."

"I hope so as well," he told her, warmth spreading through his chest. He hoped she stayed at his court forever.

The music changed again as they finished their drinks. He took their empty glasses and set them down before holding out his hand. "May I have this dance?" he asked her.

She slid her hand into his with a smile. "You may."

"Follow me," he told her, leading her back to the dance floor. "This one isn't as fast but will involve others. However, it's pretty easy to learn."

"Alright," she said as they stopped next to a couple Robin knew well. Tuck and Lady Clack would be excellent partners for him and Regina, more likely to help Regina with the dance than anyone else.

Tuck and Lady Clack bowed to them and Robin and Regina did the same. He leaned closer to Regina. "Now we take each other's hands," he told her.

She nodded, taking his hand and Tuck's. "Now we move in a circle," he said. "Go to your right."

"I think I recognize this dance," she said, moving to her right. "I think I learned something similar when Snow had dance lessons to prepare her for her first ball. I was often her partner."

"It probably is," Tuck agreed. "Given how often the countries interact with each other, I wouldn't be surprised if we just keep taking dances from each other and just changing them a little bit."

Lady Clack nodded. "I brought a lovely reel I saw in Arendelle here to Sherwood and they likely took a dance from us. Cultural exchanges, I suppose."

Robin chuckled. "I guess that's one way to look at it."

"I like it," Regina said, releasing his hand as she took Tuck's without prompting. It was clear she knew this particular dance so Robin relaxed more and swung around while holding Lady Clack's hands.

They stopped and formed the circle again. He took Regina's hand while Lady Clack took Tuck's hand. Regina leaned toward him. "Do we go in the other way now?" she asked.

He shook his head. "No, same direction."

"Oh," she replied. "They usually change direction in Mist Haven. Guess it was how they adapted the dance."

"I guess," he said as they moved back to the right. "It's not a bad idea but I think I'll stick with how we do it."

She nodded. "Me too."

They continued the dance and Robin relaxed more, glad to see Regina so happy and looking so carefree. He hoped they were able to build a stronger friendship now as he vowed to never take her for granted again.

This was fun.

Regina smiled as she drank another glass of punch, watching as the guests continued to dance. Music and dancing hadn't stopped all night long and she was impressed everyone still had the energy to keep going. While she wasn't ready for bed, she certainly needed rest throughout the night, like this one.

So she stood on the edge of the dance floor, sipping punch and just enjoying herself.

"Regina," Lady Zelena said, gliding up to her as she held her own glass of punch. "Are you enjoying the ball?"

"I am," Regina replied, eying Lady Zelena warily. She knew this wasn't just a pleasant conversation between two guests but she would play her part for now. "Are you?"

Lady Zelena nodded before sighing. "I would be having more fun if someone hadn't been monopolizing Robin's time and preventing him from dancing with other women."

Regina rolled her eyes. "He's danced with plenty of women tonight. If he wants to dance with you, he will."

"Did he say anything to you?" she asked her, bitterness in her voice. "You seem to be his confidant."

"Well, if that's the case, then I'm not going to betray his trust in me," Regina replied. She then turned to Lady Zelena. "Look, being a go-between has never ended well for me. My advice is for you to just talk with Robin yourself. It's best for everyone."

Lady Zelena nodded. "I guess you're right."

Regina started to relax, hoping Lady Zelena would take her advice and leave her alone. Lady Zelena, though, remained by her side and watched the couples dancing without saying anything else. A pit formed in her stomach as she felt like there was an itch somewhere she would never be able to scratch. Every fiber in her body wanted to be anywhere but there and her feet wanted her to move. But she knew she couldn't just flee from Lady Zelena without drawing attention or insulting Robin – no matter how angry he was with her, she was still his friend – and so she remained in place, trying to find a way to exit gracefully.

"You're never going to be queen."

"What?" Regina asked, surprised. She turned to Lady Zelena, confused. "Did you just say that?"

Lady Zelena rolled her eyes. "You know I did."

Regina's stomach rolled as she felt the hair stand up on the back of her neck from the sudden change in conversation. "I don't want to be queen," Regina told her.

"Please," Lady Zelena replied, scoffing. "You may have Robin fooled but I can see right through you."

"Is that so?" Regina asked, annoyed now. "Or are you just seeing what you want to see?"

Lady Zelena frowned, finally looking at her. "What do you mean?"

Regina held her head high. "I know you don't like me. Probably because I'm now closer to him than you. So you want me to be a villain. Well, I'm not. I have no desire to be queen. All I want to do is live a quiet, peaceful life."

"Well, you may not have a desire to be queen but you do have feelings for Robin," Lady Zelena replied. "Don't deny it. I can see it in your eyes."

"I care for him," Regina replied. "I won't deny that."

Lady Zelena nodded. "Well, it better not turn into love. You'll never be more than a friend to him."

Regina eyed her before saying: "That doesn't sound like yours to decide."

"Of course not," Lady Zelena replied. "It's for the court to decide. Robin must follow a strict set of rules. Certainly you know that from serving Queen Snow White."

"Well, Queen Snow White had no respect for the rules of court," Regina said hotly. Lady Zelena had no clue what it was like to live at Mist Haven's court once King Leopold and Queen Eva died. "She plays by her own rules."

Lady Zelena paused for a moment before saying: "Well, the point still stands. Robin needs to marry someone of noble blood."

Regina hummed. "You mean someone like you?"

"Yes," Lady Zelena said. "We have been friends for a long time and it's the natural next step in our relationship. I've been raised to be queen and he knows it. He just needs to wait a little longer out of respect for his late wife but then he will propose."

"Has he told you that?" Regina asked, suspicious that it was just Lady Zelena's wishful thinking.

Lady Zelena hesitated before answering: "Not in so many words, no. But I can read between the lines."

Regina doubted that but decided this wasn't her fight. So she nodded before saying: "Well, I guess we'll see what Robin does next."

"Yes," Lady Zelena said smugly. "We will."

"Lady Zelena." Lord Nottingham stepped forward, smiling as he bowed. He held out his hand to her. "May I have this dance?"

She glanced toward Robin and smiled, nodding as she slid her hand into Keith's hand. "You may," she said.

Lord Nottingham shot Regina a look that chilled her to her bone before he walked away with Lady Zelena. Regina shuddered before taking a deep breath. If Lady Zelena was Robin's dearest friend, she had to know about the animosity between the Locksley and Nottingham families. Why would she then agree to dance with someone who disliked her friend so much?

Unless she was hoping to make Robin jealous.

If so, she really didn't know him as well as she thought.

"More punch?" a servant asked her, approaching with a tray laden with glasses filled with the red liquid.

"No, I'm good," she replied. She held up her empty glass. "Can I give this to you?"

The servant nodded, turning the tray and pointing to an empty space. "You can put it there."

Regina set it down, thanking her. The servant moved as Regina smoothed down her skirt. She glanced at the clock over the ballroom door and saw it was well after midnight. Knowing balls like this could continue until dawn, she decided it was a good time to bow out and go to bed. No one would miss her.

She paused, glancing back at Robin as he bowed to an older man and his wife, and amended her thought. At least one person would miss her so she decided to go say goodnight to him. It was the right thing to do.

He walked toward her at the same time and she wondered if he had read her mind. Robin tilted his head as she approached. "Everything alright?" he asked.

"It's late," she said. "I think it's time for bed."

"Oh," he replied, trying to hide his disappointment. "I was hoping for one more dance but I won't keep you from your bed."

She pressed her lips together, deciding she had the energy for one more dance with him. "No, you may have my last dance of the evening," she said. "It seems fair since you were also my first dance."

"I like that," he replied, holding out his hand. She took it and he led her to the dance floor.

The music slowed and Robin turned to her. "Are you comfortable with a waltz?" he asked.

She nodded. "The waltz is fine."

"Alright," he said, pulling her closer. He placed his hand on her waist and held her other hand tightly. "I'll count us in."

"I'll follow you," she said, her heart beating faster. She wasn't this close to him unless they were sparring and this certainly had a different feel from those scenarios. Especially as she looked right into his eyes as he moved his foot forward. Regina moved backwards and they began their journey around the dance floor together.

His eyes were really blue, almost like ice, but held a warmth that melted her core.

Just like how his hold on her was firm but gentle.

"You good?" he asked her as they slowly rotated while dancing.

"Yes," she replied. "You're a good partner."

He grinned. "I'm glad to hear it."

They spun a few times before continuing around the dance floor. She bit her lip. "A lot of spinning," she said.

"Yes," he replied. "Let me know if starts to bother you."

"I'll be fine," she said, more focused on not tripping over her own two feet to worry about getting dizzy. "But thank you."

He nodded. "Alright."

They continued to move around the dance floor and she relaxed even more with each rotation. Robin was the ideal partner, willing to lead them and gently help her when she needed it. She couldn't imagine anyone else in the room being so kind and patient with her.

And maybe that was why she forgave him. He could be stubborn and infuriating and a little oblivious sometimes. But he was mostly kind and caring. Robin kept proving that he just wanted to help her, even if he didn't always do it right.

It didn't mean she was ready to trust him completely, but she was willing to work toward getting there again.

"I'm going to spin you," he said. "Are you comfortable with that? If not, we can just keep doing this until the song ends."

She smiled. "I think I handle a spin. Maybe even a dip."

He chuckled. "I'll keep that in mind."

"Good," she said, enjoying herself.

"Here we go," he said, releasing her waist and spinning her around in time to the music. She laughed as her skirt flew out around her. This was a good decision.

He pulled her closer to him again before dipping her. She looked right into his eyes again, almost drowning in their blue depths. Gods, she was so weak for them.

She had to be careful.

"Here," he said, righting her. "I'm glad I didn't drop you."

"I never thought you would," she told him. The thought really didn't cross her mind. She trusted him.

He smiled. "I'm glad to hear that."

Robin held out his arm to her and she took it, letting him escort her from the dance floor. "Do you want me to escort you back to your apartment?"

"Oh," she replied, shaking her head. "Thank you for the offer but you should probably stay here. I can get there on my own."

"Alright," he said, kissing her hand. "Then good night. I'll see you again soon."

She nodded as an idea floated through her mind. "Maybe we could have dinner together soon? Roland would love to see you again."

He smiled. "I would love that. How about tomorrow night? Or rather tonight?"

"That sounds perfect," she said, surprised by how eager she was now. "Roland will want to hear all about the ball."

"I have no doubt about that," he replied, grinning. "I was much the same when I was his age."

She chuckled. "I can imagine."

He nodded before stepping back. "Well, I don't want to keep you from your bed. So goodnight, Regina, and sweet dreams."

"Thank you, Robin," she replied before kissing his cheek, his beard tickling her lips. "Sweet dreams to you too."

"Thank you," he said, hands clasped behind his back and she knew he would wait for her to walk down the hallway before he went back inside the ballroom. She gave him a little wave and walked away. When she was almost at the end of the hallway, she looked back and saw him open the door to the ballroom.

She took a deep breath and continued to her bedroom, eager to take off her dress and climb under the covers. Regina couldn't wait to fall asleep, certain it would be the deepest sleep she had gotten in years now that she wasn't always on alert for dangers that could hurt her and Roland.

And though she wouldn't yet admit it out loud, she was also eager to continue dancing with Robin in her dreams.