Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Starting a One-shot collection

Please leave your requests!

It’s been a while since I’ve written a fic let alone posted, so I’m not sure how good it will be but we’ll see haha

Hopefully they’ll be a regular update schedule

I’m pretty much comfortable writing whatever

I look forward to starting this x

🩵❤️

Chapter Text

Red was used to a bit of pain, she’d felt it all throughout her childhood. The cruel punishments, the isolation, the hateful orders from her tyrannical mother.

Over time she learnt how to build walls so no one could see through. And she was determined not to let even a single crack show.

__________

The day had seemingly dragged on forever as Red sat in her last class sketching away onto the paper of her book, taking down notes now long forgotten as the professor's words sounded like white noise in the back of her mind.

All she could think about was getting to see Chloe, the bluenette had a tight schedule that she liked to uphold so she hadn’t seen her bubbly girlfriend since they‘d left the dorm together that morning.

Tapping her foot against the ground she sat back with a huff, what use was this ridiculous class to her anyway?

The sharp call of the final bell snapped her out of her thoughts and she scrambled to gather her things, eager to talk with Chloe before her swords and shields practice began.

But as she rushed her way out of the classroom she didn't notice the group of boys waiting outside the door.

“Well, if it isn’t the Wonder freak.” One of the boys said as he grabbed her bag tightly. 

“What a truly, Wonderful surprise.”

“What, no hello?” Another said coming close to her face, the tips of his fingers stroking through her hair.

Red shuttered at the grotesque touch “Just leave me alone.” She mumbled, tight lipped and tense.

“And ruin all the fun?” He laughed, “We couldn't do that princess now could we?” He said, shoving her to the ground.

Before she had a chance to react she was met with a swift kick to the ribs. They were already mottled with dark purple and sickly yellow splotches from countless times they had done this to her before.

She felt a hand press her head against the pavement as another kick hit her heavily in the stomach.

Her hair was harshfully tugged at as she was pulled to her feet. She watched in silent horror as they dug through her bag, emptying its contents, destroying her belongings.

One of the boys found her sketchbook and held it like he’d just struck gold. “Let's see what the little freak has been up to shall we.” A cheer of agreement was heard from the surrounding boys.

Flicking through the book tearing most pages out as he went along, until he stopped at the last page.

Red froze, eyes wide. It was the drawing she had just done in class.

The one of Chloe.

His eyes scanned the page and his face scrunched up in a scowl. He held the book up to her face and looked her dead in the eyes. “Do you really think she could ever love someone like you?” he paused. “Someone as worthless and pathetic as you.”

“Don't get me wrong princess, you've got your title, sure. But that doesn’t make you one of us.”

“And it certainly doesn’t make you worthy of your precious Chloe Charming.”

Red felt as though her lungs were on fire, breaths coming in short gasps, her torso ached and her head throbbed.

“You leave her the fuck out of this!” She exclaimed, how dare they bring Chloe into this.

Before she could get another word out she felt another harsh tug at her hair throwing her back onto the ground.

Red could only watch in disbelief as he tore her book straight in half.

“You’ll always just be the freak from Wonderland.” 

”And don’t you ever believe even for a second that you’ll ever be anything more.” He said, words dripping with malice.

Red nodded. The grasp that they held on her hair was let go but before she could get to her feet she felt a closed fist strike across her face, her cheek bloomed with pain and felt warm to the touch.

She reached for her bag but it was held out of her grasp. She cringed as she heard the denim tear. It was her favorite, it had been a gift from Chloe. Now it was nothing more than fabric shreds.

As they turned to leave one of them stopped and said “And if you ever tell the Charming girl about any of this. You’re as good as dead.”

Red waited until she could no longer hear their footsteps and shuttered a sigh of relief, gathering the torn pages and remains of her belongings, Red slowly walked back to her dorm.

She held the drawing of Chloe in her hands. Deep down she knew what they were saying was wrong. But how could someone as perfect and beautiful as Chloe love someone like her? Someone who was only going to hurt her.

Folding the drawing and placing it under her pillow, she stood with a deep groan, her body ached in resentment, wanting nothing more than to curl up under her covers and go to sleep.

Looking at herself in the mirror, Red had absolutely no clue how she was going to hide this from Chloe. Her lip was split and swollen, the skin around her cheekbone already turning a horrid shade of purple.

Not to mention the mosaic of bruising scattered along her torso and back. Sighing deeply she willed herself to keep her tears at bay and reached for the first aid kit.

__________

Chloe was beginning to grow worried.

Red had told her that she'd come watch her practice, but her girlfriend wasn’t sitting in her usual seat on the bleachers.

She would usually be tucked at the very back wearing Chloe’s hoodie, that she swore she didn’t steal. But now the fiery red head didn't seem to be anywhere at all.

Red had probably just gone back to their dorm to take a nap and she was overreacting. Right, that must be it.

“Charming, come on let's go!” Hazel yelled out to her. Impatient to start team sparing.

Deciding to send a text to red later, Chloe grabbed her sword and walked her way over to the group.

But she couldn’t help shake the anxious feeling growing in her stomach.

__________

Practice had been a total mess. She couldn’t focus, her movements were untimed and sloppy, definitely not good enough work to call herself captain today.

“Chloe you okay? You were pretty spaced out back there.” Hazel said sitting down with her on the bench, hair still wet from the shower.

“Yeah, I guess. I don’t know, I just can’t shake the feeling that something’s wrong.” She confessed running a hand through her curls.

“What do you mean something’s wrong?” Hazel inquired, her face growing more serious.

“Red…Red’s been acting weird, she’s being more secretive, she’s slipping out of bed early every morning and coming back late at night after I’ve already fallen asleep.” Chloe knew if there was anyone she could trust with this information, it was Hazel.

“Have the two of you gotten in a fight or something?” Hazel asked, knowing that the couple were prone to a bit of bickering now and again.

“No! No, of course not, at least I don’t think we have.” She cursed herself, hoping that she hadn’t said something to upset Red without realising.

“Have you asked her about it?” 

“No.” Chloe admitted, blush spreading across her face.

“Wha- oh my god. Chloe, go talk to your girlfriend already!” Hazel exclaimed, pinching the bridge of her nose.

“Okay! Okay! I’m going, I’m going.” She shot up hurrying out of the locker room.

“Chloe! Bag!” Hazel called holding the bluenettes duffle bag.

“Right! Sorry, thanks Hazel.”

Hazel laughed, shaking her head “All good Charming.”

__________

Red knew she was screwed. She completely forgot to text Chloe and let her know she wouldn’t be coming to practice. Her girlfriend was sure to be worried now.

Hearts. She had bandaged her sides and put makeup on her cheek but her lip was still cut and swollen.

Chloe was due back from training any minute, she was going to have to come up with an excuse quickly.

Right on cue she heard the sound of footsteps and the key turning in the lock. Jumping off her bed, she grabbed one of her textbooks and sat at her desk, flipping to a random page hoping it looked believable enough.

“Hey love.” Chloe said. Putting down her sword and bag before coming behind red and slipping her arms around the girl, placing her chin on top of her head.

Red winced, Chloe’s arms were putting pressure on her bruising but she smiled, not wanting her girlfriend to suspect anything wrong.

“Hi Bluey.” She said softly, leaning back into her girlfriends touch.

“Everything okay?” Chloe asked. Hoping to get some insight as to her girlfriend's recent behaviour.

“Hm? Oh yeah I’m fine.” She then made the mistake of turning to face the bluenette

Chloe’s eyes widened in worry. What in the world had happened to her girl?

“Red- What happened?!” She exclaimed, bringing her hands to cup her face scanning for any more injuries.

“It’s nothing princess I promise, I wasn’t looking where I was going and took a bit of a fall.” Hoping Chloe would believe through her shallow lie.

Chloe Sighed in relief and nodded.

She leaned forward and planted a kiss on her girlfriend's forehead, pulling her back into a hug.

Red pressed her head against her chest, relishing in the way Chloe’s heartbeat thrummed strongly against her ear.

How could she ever deserve this?

“You’ll always just be the freak from wonderland.”

Red pulled away, suddenly feeling guilty.

“How was practice?”

“Fine.” A lie. “It would’ve been better with you there.” Chloe said smiling.

“Oh clocks. I’m so sorry, I completely forgot that I had to get this homework done.” Red said, completely lying through her teeth.

Chloe was sceptical, Red had never really taken her school work very seriously, it was a habit she was trying to help her break.

“It’s okay Red, really, there'll be plenty more practices to come to.” She said laughing softly. “I’m going to freshen up before dinner.” She gave her girlfriend's hand a squeeze before making her way to the bathroom.

__________

Red flopped onto her bed, mind racing a mile a minute.

Did she remember to put the first aid kit away properly?

Did Chloe suspect anything wrong?

How was she going to hide this from Her?

Chloe. Why did she keep hurting Chloe?

Her mother's words echoed in her head, Love Ain’t It.

She needed some air.

__________

When Chloe re-entered the room the red head was nowhere to be seen. Dinner was starting soon so she assumed she had left without her.

Which was….strange, Red always waited for her and they would walk down together. 

It was fine. Everything was fine, she must just be having an off day, she’ll talk to her at dinner.

But as Chloe entered the hall she didn’t see a glimpse of her girlfriend. But did see Hazel frantically waving her over.

“Hey girl! How’d your little talk go?” she asked between bites.

“It was, okay i guess, she said she had homework to finish so that’s why she didn’t come to practice.” Chloe said, sitting down beside her.

“Red willingly doing homework? I never thought I’d see the day.” Hazel remarked “Where is she now? I thought the two of you normally came down together.”

“I don't know.” she said quietly.

“The hell do you mean you don't know?” Hazel said, staring at her wide eyed.

“I went to shower and by the time I stepped out she was already gone.” She mumbled poking at her food with her fork. “I thought she’d be waiting here and that she just left early.”

“I wish I could help but I haven't seen a sign of her all day.” Hazel said, placing a hand on her shoulder.

“It's okay, I’m sure everything will be fine.” She said, mostly to herself, trying to ease her nerves.

Her and Hazel continued in conversation before she decided to head back to her dorm in search of her girlfriend.

__________

Red knew she should’ve let Chloe know that she was going out, or at least have left a note.

She was cold. She had left her hoodie on her bed in her hurry out the door, it was her favorite, it was Originally Chloe’s, it was light blue and still smelled of her perfume.

She didn’t know how long she had been sitting on the roof. The sun had set and the stars were out. She climbed her way down landing with a soft thud before making her way back to her room.

She knew it was almost curfew so she tried to be quick as to not worry Chloe any further.

As she turned the next corner she heard footsteps coming towards her, she ducked behind the next wall hoping she wasn’t seen.

“Was that you Wonder freak?” They paused. “There’s no point in hiding, we know you're there.” The footsteps grew closer.

“If you come out maybe we could play a game. Anyone up for a round of Cards?” The group erupted in laughter.

If she went now, there was a chance they wouldn’t see her.

She ran.

“Are we having a chase now are we!?” Footsteps pounded behind her. 

She sprinted as fast as she could. Blood rushing in her ears, lungs burning. But she couldn’t stop.

She turned into the nearest doorway and hoped she lost them. “Where did that bitch go!” One of them yelled “She couldn’t have gone far. Come on.” She let out a sigh of relief when she heard them turn the other way.

She slumped down the wall until she hit the floor, trying to regain her breath.

Walking slowly back to the dorm, hoping that Chloe was asleep, no matter how much she longed to speak to her, she didn’t want to worry her girlfriend any further.

Chloe didn't deserve this. Chloe deserved better. So much better than Red could ever offer.

Red turned the doorknob as quietly as possible as not to hopefully not wake her if she was in fact asleep. Seeing that the princess was already in bed, she slipped into the bathroom to change her bandages and re-apply the make up to her bruised face.

__________

Chloe heard her girlfriend shuffle into the dorm and the bathroom door click shut. Pulling herself from the warm comforter she flicked on the lamp on the bedside. And waited for Red to come to bed.

When the bathroom door opened she was met with a very startled Red.

“I’m sorry. I didn't mean to wake you up Chloe.” She said, looking sheepish.

Chloe simply smiled and opened her arms. “Come here love.” motioning for Red to join her.

Red tried to carefully curl in bed with her girlfriend. Her torso still ached deeply, She only hoped that Chloe wouldn’t be able to feel the bandages through her shirt. She laid her head across Chloe’s chest and felt her arms wrap around her back and fingers stroke through her hair.

Chloe wanted nothing more than to stay in that moment forever. Just her and Red. She reached up and turned off the lamp and buried her face in Red’s hair. 

I don't deserve this. They were all right. Those words repeated through Red’s mind until sleep finally consumed her.

__________

The annoying blare of the alarm woke her from her sleep. She groaned and buried herself further in the arms of her girlfriend. 

“Come on Red, time to get up.” Chloe said, gently shaking her awake.

“Alright. I’m up, I’m up.” She groaned, stretching and reluctantly stepping out of bed.

Chloe searched through her wardrobe finding a suitable outfit for the day before fastening her sword in its holster by her hip. She turned to face Red, her girl looking beautiful as ever. “Are you almost ready? Wouldn’t want to miss breakfast.”

“Coming.” Red said. Shoving the last of her things into one of her spare bags.

“Where's your usual bag love? The denim one with the embroidery.” Chloe asked, Red hadn’t left the dorm without that bag since she had given it to her when they had first started dating.

“Oh. I misplaced it yesterday in one of my classes, I’ll have to go back and see if I can find it.” Only she wouldn’t find it. She had gathered all the pieces of the torn fabric and placed it in a shoe box at the bottom of her closet.

Chloe nodded. She didn’t quite believe her, she’d press on the matter later but as for now they had classes to get to.

Unfortunately they didn’t have the same class together and wouldn’t be seeing each other until lunch. Chloe, not wanting to leave Red yet, walked her to her classroom not forgetting to kiss her on the cheek goodbye.

Out of the corner of her eye she saw a group of boys standing outside of the classroom, it made her wary and she wasn’t quite sure why.

__________

Red felt as though she was floating on air. She loved being able to wake up wrapped in her girlfriends arms. She felt safe, and protected.

But she knew it could never last. Chloe shouldn’t have to suffer to be with someone like her. Chloe deserved better. Red knew that.

The bell rang and she was quick to gather her things. Hoping to quickly see Chloe before their next classes began.

What she didn’t notice was that there was already someone waiting for her outside.

“Thought you could outrun us huh princess.” Red quickened her pace “Oh come now. Let's play a game.” she felt herself be roughly grabbed by the shoulder and braced herself as it made connection with the brick wall.

“When are you going to learn, freak. You don't belong here.” He yanked her up to her feet and grabbed her face.

Red was beginning to grow frantic. She knew the stairwell was approaching and could only dread what was about to happen.

__________

Chloe had heard a commotion coming from the upstairs hallway. She placed her bag down and placed her hand tightly to the hilt of her sword.

She heard a voice from upstairs. “Well boys, let's see if the rumors are true, can people from wonderland really fly!”

Red felt herself hit the wall hard, rolling down the stairs, her head hitting the floorboards. She whacked against the floor one last time, vision blurry and head pounding like nails against her skull.

Chloe watched in horror, time seemed to slow infront of her. She watched as her girlfriend hit the ground, her body falling limp.

“Woah! I guess the wonder freak doesn’t have any wings afterall." The group all laughed and bounded down the stairs, unaware that Chloe was there waiting

She sprinted towards Red, sword drawn, blocking them from getting to her.

“Who the fuck do you think you are. Stay the hell away from my girlfriend, do you hear me!.” Her sword was pointed at his neck, pressing just under his chin.

“Hey Charming, cool it, we were just playing around.” He said, trying to laugh it off.

She pressed her sword harder, drawing blood.

“You stay away from her. Do you understand?” Her tone ice cold. “Otherwise I’ll show you that I don't practice with this sword just for fun”  She finished pulling the blade away from his neck.

He took a deep breath out In relief but was soon met with a clenched fist that met his nose with a sickening crack. He yelped in pain and ran off with his tail between his legs, the rest of the group quick to follow not wanting to meet the same fate.

Chloe waited until they were out of sight. Before dropping her sword and rushing to her girlfriends side, she still hadn’t moved.

She dropped to the ground and placed her girlfriend's head in her lap, her eyes were open but glassed over. “Red. Red, come on love, look at me.” she pleaded, tears sprang to her eyes.

Red’s head pounded. She felt like the room was spinning and her entire body ached. “Mmm….Chloe?” She groaned hoping that I was in fact her girlfriend holding her.

“Yeah, yeah it’s me, I’ve got you.” Chloe whispered, a few silent tears making their way down her face.

She tried as gently as possible to lift her girlfriend. Making sure she was held securely in her arms.

As she carried Red to the nurses office she felt the girl in her arms start to shift and groan in pain.

“Shhh. It’s alright I’m taking you to the nurse, everything’s gonna be fine.” Chloe said, trying to soothe the girl.

“No…no nurse, not the nurse Chloe please.” Red said, voice hoarse and defeated.

“Red-“

“Please Chloe!….I just want to go home.”

Chloe sighed. Knowing that the right thing to do was to take her girlfriend to the nurses office but she couldn’t help but feel her heart break, the girl in her arms looked so small and vulnerable.

“Okay. We’ll go back to our dorm.” Wanting her to feel safe. 

__________

Chloe placed Red down on her bed and went to fetch the first aid kit from the bathroom. Noticing that the box was missing more than a few items.

How long had this been going on for? 

She couldn’t think about that now. Not when Red needed her to stay strong.

“Okay baby. I’m going to take your makeup off, then we’ll move onto your clothes.” Chloe said, grabbing wipes from the drawer in her bedside.

Red managed to nod. She just wanted the pounding in her head to stop.

Chloe began to remove her makeup. Pausing briefly when she came across the deep purple bruise on her cheekbone.

It looked fresh. Is that why she was so secretive yesterday?

“Okay, I’m gonna need you to sit up so I can get your shirt off.” Red nodded, Chloe wrapped an arm around her back and she let her head fall onto her shoulder.

Chloe lifted her shirt as gently as she could. She was surprised to be met with bandages, she felt her throat tighten and tears spring to her eyes.

Red buried her face in Chloe’s neck, she couldn’t bear to see the hurt look in her eyes.

Chloe placed her girlfriend back on the bed and started unwrapping the bandages around her torso and chest.

It was covered in bruising. Deep purple almost black patches stretched along her back. A sickly green and yellow twisted together in a wicked dance.

Her girlfriend's spine and chest looked like a horrific painting, like paint had been splashed all over the canvas without a second thought.

She gasped softly, bringing a hand to her mouth as tears followed steadily down her face.

“Chloe, please don’t cry I’m okay I-“ 

“No you’re not okay! Red, look at you, you’re covered in marks.” Chloe was so angry, how dare they do this to her girl.

“Baby girl. How…how long has this been happening. Why didn’t you tell me?” Chloe said, voice breaking slightly.

Red swallowed. “I just didn’t. I didn’t want to make you worry.” She said quietly, almost ashamed to admit it.

“Red of course I’m going to worry about you. I love you. I can’t imagine my life anymore without you in it.” 

“You love me?” Red said almost in disbelief. 

“Yes! I love you Red Hearts. So much that it hurts. I never want to see you in pain and I’m so sorry I couldn't protect you from it.” She paused,“So please. Don’t hide things like this from me, because I love you so much Red.” She knew she was audibly sobbing, but she didn’t care.

“But I don't deserve you. Chloe you deserve so much more than I could ever give you. I’m broken. I’m the freak from Wonderland, I’m not worth it Chloe. Can’t you see that?” she looked up at Chloe, unable to read the expression on her face.

“Don't you ever say that. Don’t you even think it, because it's not true. Red I don't care that you’re from Wonderland, I don’t care about any of your imperfections. Because you’re mine, you’re my girl, and that's all that matters to me.”

She bent down and pressed her lips against Red's. It wasn't urgent, it wasn’t hungry, it was grounding, it was reassurance, it was living proof of her love.

Red did her best to sit up, pushing through the haze of pain shooting through her back and abdomen. She threw herself into Chloe, wrapping her arms around her neck, and finally letting herself cry. It wasn’t quiet, it came out in big ugly sobs that wracked through her body.

And Chloe just held her, rocking her slightly, mindful of her injuries. “It’s okay love, you’re safe. I've got you.” She placed a kiss on the crown of her head and pulled her onto her lap.

It didn’t take long for Red to fall asleep. Her breathing grew heavy and she slumped in Chloe’s arms.

She gently laid her girlfriend back down on the bed and reached for the first aid kit discarded on the floor.

Applying wound spray gause to any cuts Red had acquired when she fell down the stairs, thankful that the girl was in a deep enough sleep that she didn’t stir. 

She glanced down at her girlfriends middle, heart blooming with guilt. How had she not known? She took a deep breath in and out again. She would go to principal Uma first thing in the morning, but right now Red was the only thing that mattered.

She climbed into bed, curling herself around Red protectively, bringing her hand up to her girlfriends hair, wrapping an arm around her back so her head was tucked under Chloe’s chin. She stayed awake a moment longer, The sound of Red’s breathing soothing her nerves. Red mumbled, voice full of exhaustion “I love you too Bluey.”

Chloe smiled and kissed her temple. 

Tomorrow could wait.

Right now, she had her girl in her arms. Nothing else mattered

Chapter Text

Red had been home in Wonderland for almost a week on spring break, yet Bridget had not seen much of her daughter since she arrived home from Auradon Prep.

She had a feeling that Red was missing a certain curly haired princess from Cinderellasburg.

The pair had been inseparable since they learnt how to walk.

But recently Bridget had suspected that something more had been blossoming between the two girls.

She chuckled softly to herself, deciding it was time for a long overdue tea party in the garden with her little rose.

__________

Red was miserable. She missed her girlfriend terribly, and it had only been six days!

Her and Chloe had been together for only a few months. The bluenette had confessed her feelings to the Wonderland princess on a cold star-filled night at Auradon Prep.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

Chloe had planned a small midnight picnic on the balcony of their dorm, and as they snuggled under a thick fluffy blanket Chloe had poured her heart out to her.

“Red?” Chloe asked, turning to face the girl beside her.

”Yeah?” Red shifted, looking up at her. Face flushed pink from the cold.

“Will you be mine?” Chloe whispered, loud enough for only her to hear.

Red giggled “What do you mean princess? I’ve always been yours.” She paused for a moment.

“Even when we were kids and we’d make forts in your playroom, or when Chad would cut the hair off our dolls and we’d chase him all over the castle.” She threw her head back laughing.

“Of course I’m yours, you’re my best friend Chlo.” 

Chloe’s smile faltered. “Right.” She nodded slightly, looking downwards.

Red’s eyebrows pinched together in confusion. “What's wrong? Was It something I said?”

Chloe grabbed her hand. “No! No it’s not you, it’s just, nevermind…” she trailed off, feeling as though she had made a mistake asking her.

“Hey, no, don't do that, Please. Tell me what’s wrong Chloe.” Red said, placing her hand on top of Chloe’s, interlocking their fingers together.

Chloe lifted her head meeting her gaze, an unreadable expression on her face.

“Please princess, tell me-“ She was cut off as Chloe surged forward, crashing their lips together and snaking an arm around the back of her neck.

Red froze momentarily eyes wide, before she melted into it, eyes closing as she cupped the princesses face, falling backwards onto the pillows they dragged outside, pulling the bluenette down with her. 

They broke away, breaths coming out in gasps, Chloe pressed their foreheads together, and asked again “Will you be mine Red Hearts?”

Red nodded. “Yes. Yes I will be yours Chloe Charming.” she said breathlessly, smiling ear to ear. She pulled the princess back into a deep kiss, tangling her hand in her hair. Never in her life had she felt so complete.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

Red felt blush creep across her cheeks at the memory. The two of them had agreed not to tell their parents until they were ready, Chloe hadn’t come out to her parents yet and was worried as to how they would react.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

Chloe had heard her parents' love story as a bedtime story for years. She loved her parents, she didn’t want to disappoint them.

“You’ll find your prince one day Chloe.” Ella would say to her. “ And you’ll have your own happily ever after.” And for a while, that's what she wanted, to fall in love with a handsome prince, get married and have children of their own.

It was a future she still desired.

But as she grew older she found that she had no interests in boys, Red used to tease her saying, “Come on Chloe, don't you want to find your prince?” Chloe didn’t know what she wanted, but it definitely wasn’t a prince.

In the coming months before they were due to attend their first year at Auradon Prep, Red declared an impromptu sleepover was in order.

They laid awake for hours, watching cheesy rom coms and eating far more sugar than their bloodstreams could handle, the sound of their laughter bounced off the walls.

Red had fallen asleep sometime around three. Chloe’s beloved teddy bear held securely in her arms, hair sprawled out on the pillow, the blanket falling around her waist.

Chloe remained wide awake, she couldn’t sleep, she looked at the redhead in awe. How could someone be so breathtakingly beautiful without even trying? She reached forward and tucked a strand of hair behind the girl's ear. 

She heard her parents' words again “You’ll find your prince one day Chloe, and live your own happily ever after.” She shuddered at the words that once brung her such comfort. 

She looked towards Red once more. Red, her Red, her best friend.

The girl who always remained by her side, the girl who held a strong face but was so incredibly soft when they were alone.

Red was thoughtful, she was kind, and so insanely beautiful it made her head spin.

Red was someone who she could trust with everything that she was, someone who’s voice she could listen to for hours on end without ever growing tired of it, she was someone who she could hold and cherish. Someone she could love.

Someone she did love.

Chloe’s face hardened in realisation.

She loved Red. She was in love with Red.

There was never going to be a Prince for Chloe, because she had already found her Princess.

And it was her best friend.

…She was so screwed.

_________

Red heard a knock on her bedroom door. “Come in.” she called, setting her paints aside.

Bridget opened the door with a smile. “Hello my love. Would you like to join me for tea in the garden Rosebud?” She inquired, hoping to spend some time with her daughter.

Red’s face broke out in a wide smile. “Sure Mum, I’d love to.” She really hadn’t meant to avoid her Mother, she missed her so much while she was at Auradon.

But ever since returning home she was worried she would slip up and accidentally expose her relationship with Chloe.

And while she loved her Mum, she knew that her girlfriend wasn’t quite ready for their secret to be out yet.

“Come on then, I’ve baked your favorites.” Bridget said, turning down the corridor motioning for her daughter to follow.

Red perked up at the sound of treats, there was no way she was missing out on her Mothers strawberry shortcake.

__________

Bridget wasn’t putting it lightly when she said she had been baking. The table was laid out with all kinds of baked goods. Red’s eyes lit up when she spotted the shortcake.

Bridget sat down across from her, pouring her daughters favourite tea, Raspberry and Vanilla. “Tell me Rosebud, how is school? I feel as though I've barely spoken to you since you’ve come home.” She asked, stirring sugar into her own cup, amused at the way her daughter was practically inhaling the plate of shortcake. 

Red raised the cup to her mouth, smiling at the taste, her favourite, she should’ve guessed. “It’s been fine Mum.” Red said, shrugging.

She raised an eyebrow, and placed down her cup. “Really? That's all I get.” Bridget said, folding her arms. "How's Chloe? I know the two of you were excited to room together.”

Red chuckled nervously “Chloe’s great! She was made captain of the Swords and Shields team.” She said, face softening at the mention of her girlfriend

Bridget hummed. “I still remember when the two of you would play in the rose garden together.” She paused, “One year when the two of you were around five, all the roses had grown in white.” 

Red smiled. “And I thought it was such a great idea to paint them red.” She laughed. “We ended up with red paint all over our clothes, the rose bushes didn’t look much better.”

She continued. “I was so scared that I had gotten us both in trouble, but Chloe being Chloe told me that she would be my knight in shining armour and say that it was her idea.”

“You both looked so guilty when Ella and I found you.” Bridget said fondly, “We knew from that day on there was nothing in the world that could drive the two of you apart.”

“Nothing but a school holiday apparently.” Red said teasingly.

“Oh no my dear I’ve already taken care of that.” Bridget said calmly, spreading jam across a scone.

Red sat up straight “What do you mean?”

“I’ve spoken with Ella and apparently Chloe has also been moping around the castle since returning to Cinderellasburg.” 

“I haven’t been moping-"

“Yes, you have Rosebud.” Bridget smirked. “Now, go pack your things, we leave first thing in the morning.”

Red couldn’t believe what her Mother was saying. She jumped up so fast that her chair fell backwards and hit the floor. 

She hugged her Mum tightly, whispering a quick thank you before running off in the direction of her room.

__________

Chloe felt like she was losing her mind. Spring break had only just begun and it had already felt like an eternity since she had last seen her girlfriend.

So she did what anyone in her situation would do. She trained.

She focused on her form, her techniques, the way she held her sword, trying to iron out any flaws that would affect her performance as team captain.

She was doing anything that would exhaust her enough to find sleep at night. She had grown so used to sleeping with the redhead cuddled up in her arms that she was struggling to fall asleep without her.

Chad had home from college the week before and although she really did love her brother, he was starting to get on her nerves. She had just sat down at her desk planning to get through some study, when he came barging into her room like he owned the place.

“Chloeee!” Chad said. swinging her door open and flopping onto her bed. She groaned, “What do you want, Chad?” She snapped, irritation clear in her voice.

“Oh come on, can’t a guy want to spend time with his baby sister?” Chloe rolled her eyes. “Chad. Seriously. What do you want?” She asked, turning around to face him.

He sat up pulling out his car keys. “Mom told me to get you out of the house. We’re going to lunch.” Chad said, walking towards her. Before she had a chance to retaliate, she felt herself get lifted out of her chair and thrown over his shoulder. 

“Wha- Chad! Put me down!” She squealed, outraged. “Notttt happening sis, you can thank me later.” He said, swiftly turning out of her room and down the stairs.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

As Chloe sat in the car sulking silently, she couldn’t help but let her thoughts drift to her girlfriend. What would she be doing right now? Would she be working on her paintings? Perhaps experimenting with new oils or watercolours. Knowing Red there was a chance the princess wasn’t even awake yet. Chloe smiled sadly, she missed her so much.

Chad nudged her, “Hey cheer up Chlo, why so Blue?” He laughed at his own joke, Chloe only glared in response.

“Geez, tough crowd.” He cleared his throat trying again. “So, how’s school? Are there any princes that I need to talk to about breaking my sister's heart?” He teased, trying to lighten the mood a bit.

Chloe laughed nervously. “No, no there's not. Besides I’m pretty sure Dad would beat you to it.” Chad nodded his head in agreement chuckling slightly.

“Yeah that sounds about right.” He paused. “Are you sure everythings okay? Mom says you’ve been moping.” He said, pouting at her mockingly.

“Oh yeah! Yeah I'm fine.” she defended. “I just-”

“Miss Red?” Chad said. Chloe nodded

“I remember when the two of you dressed me up in that frilly pink dress and forced me to play tea party with you.” He shuddered at the memory.

Chloe cackled. “Aww. But you looked so pretty as princess.” She said grinning.

“Where are we even going?” She asked curiously. “You’ll see.” Chad responded, not wanting to ruin the surprise.

Chloe sat up in excitement as the car stopped in front of her favorite ice cream parlour. Ella used to take her and Chad there all the time when they were little.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

She and Chad sat together on a nearby bench, practically scoffing down their ice cream cones without a care. 

“Oh god! Brain Freeze!” Chad exclaimed, dropping his cone and clutching both sides of his head. 

Chloe doubled over in laughter, her own ice cream falling to the floor in the process. Chad looked to the ground then to her, her face stunned, and started laughing alongside his sister.

Chloe wiped her eyes trying to compose herself. “How are things going with Audrey?” She and Chad had been together for quite some time and she had grown to be like a big sister to Chloe.

“Things are going great, Audrey. Audrey’s incredible-” He rambled on, a lovesick expression plastered on his face.

“Anyway. I'm sure you’ll know what that feels like when you find a prince of your own soon enough.” Chad said, wrapping an arm around Chloe’s shoulder.

“Oh. I don’t think that’ll be anytime soon Chad.” She said hurriedly.

“I met Audrey at your age, you never know, a nice prince might come along, sweep you off your feet and into a ballroom.” 

‘No really Chad I-” 

“Seriously Chloe, now that you’re at Auradon prep there's no telling when you could meet your Prince Charming-”

“Chad, I'm Gay.” Chloe froze, her words hung heavy in the air. She wished she could take them back, to speak them out of existence.

Chad stared at his sister, mouth slightly agape, he cleared his throat. “You’re gay?”

Chloe looked at him and nodded, gnawing her lip anxiously, her eyes glossed over with unshed tears.

“How…How long have you known?” He asked softly, his tone unreadable.

Chloe swallowed, taking a deep breath. “A little over a year.” She admitted quietly.

“Do Mom and Dad know?” He asked cautiously.

Chloe’s head shot up. “No! No they don’t. Please! You can't tell them Chad please!” She said frantically, eyes full of worry.

“Woah! Hey, hey, who said anything about telling them.” He said, quickly pulling her into a tight hug. She buried her face into his shoulder, stray tears falling from her eyes.

Chad rubbed her back in circles. “It’s okay sis.” She sniffled, wiping her nose. “You mean you’re not disappointed?”

“Why on earth would I be disappointed in you Chlo?” He asked, eyebrows pinched in confusion.

“Because, I was supposed to find my perfect prince, fall in love, live out my happily ever after.” She continued. “You’ve heard Mom and Dad’s story, you know how it goes.”

“Chloe. Just because that was their story it doesn’t mean it has to be yours, prince or princess you can still have the life you want. Write your own fairytale, don’t follow the one that's already been written.”

Chloe hugged him tightly and laughed. “You know, you can actually be quite smart when you want to be.” 

Chad shoved her playfully. “Oh how you wound me!” He said, dramatically placing a hand over his chest.

Chloe stood and shook her head at her brother's theatrics.

Maybe things weren’t going to be as bad as she thought.

__________

Chad had agreed not to tell their parents about Chloe or the secret girlfriend he wasn’t allowed to know about, until she decided she was ready to tell them herself.

She had spent the rest of the afternoon studying, and then training late into the evening. Between the emotional build up of the day and the hours of sparing she had pushed herself through, she was exhausted.

She finished her nightly routine and climbed into bed, too tired to keep her eyes open. She grabbed a pillow from the side of her bed, tucking it close to her chest. Trying to trick herself into thinking it was Red.

But nothing could replace how she felt with her girlfriend sleeping in her arms. Chloe felt a few hot tears make their way down her face. She missed her princess so much.

__________

Red was ecstatic. She couldn’t believe that in just a few hours she would be seeing Chloe, she had practically leapt out of bed and rushed her way downstairs. Eagerly waiting for her mother in the car.

Bridget knocked on her daughter's door. “Rose? Are you awake? We have to leave  soon.” No response. “Red?” She opened the door only to find the room empty and the young princess nowhere to be found. Which was odd, Red detested rising early.

Walking down the hall and glancing out the window she saw that her daughter was already outside waiting for her. She smiled, of course. Red wouldn’t want to miss even a second of time she could be spending with Chloe.

“Excited are we my dear?” Bridget asked, sitting beside her daughter.

“You did say we were leaving first thing in the morning.” She replied cheekily. Her leg bounced in anticipation, she couldn’t wait to arrive at Cinderellasburg.

Bridget laughed. “Of course my Rose, how could I forget.” She said, squeezing her daughter’s hand.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

Red hated waking up early, so Bridget wasn’t surprised when she looked over to see her daughter fast asleep, head slumped forward against her arm.

Bridget tucked a stray lock of hair out of her daughter's face. They still had about an hour until they reached Cinderellasburg, so she left her to sleep.

Red woke up to her mother's fingers running through her hair “Mmm?” she groaned, blinking sleep from her eyes. “We're almost there, Rosebud.” Bridget replied softly, Red nodded, smiling widely.

__________

Chloe was sitting in her study, re-reading her book on Auradons history and their founding kingdoms when she heard a knock, she looked up to see her mother standing in the doorframe, a sly smile on her lips.

“Chloe my dear, we have some guests arriving shortly, would you be able to greet them with me?”

Chloe’s eyebrows furrowed, guests? She wasn’t aware they were expecting anyone. “Of course Mom.” She replied smiling, closing her book and standing, interlinking arms with her Mother.

As she stood at the main doors next to her Mom she wondered who they could be expecting. She was soon snapped out of her thoughts as she saw an all too familiar car come up the drive. No it couldn’t be, could it?

She turned to her Mom. “Go on.” Ella encouraged, giving her a gentle push on the back.

Chloe couldn’t believe it when her girlfriend stepped out of the car.

Red smiled brightly. “You miss me princess?” She teased. Chloe ran up to her, scooping her up in her arms and spinning her around. 

Red giggled light and airy, “I’ll take that as a yes.” Clocks, she wanted to kiss her so badly.

Chloe placed her down. “I can’t believe you're here!” She exclaimed, grabbing her girlfriend’s bags as they rushed off inside to her room.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

As soon as the door clicked shut Chloe felt herself being pushed up against it. Red met her in a desperate kiss. She let her eyes flutter shut, wrapping an arm around Red’s waist, lifting her up, the other cupping her face. 

Red wrapped her legs securely around Chloe’s waist,  tangling her hand through blue curls.

They broke apart, resting their foreheads together. “Bed?” Chloe asked breathlessly.

Red nodded. “Y-yeah.” She said, staring at her wide eyed before pressing her lips to Chloe’s again.

Chloe placed Red down on the bed, placing kisses all over her face, relishing in her girlfriends giggles.

She moved down kissing her neck, sucking and biting at her pulse point.

Red moaned, throwing her head back onto the pillow. “Chloeeee” She rasped, tangling a first at the nape of her girlfriends neck.

Chloe nipped softly along the junction of her neck. Pulling back, admiring her work. Red’s hair was sprawled out across the pillows, breath coming out in ragged gasps. Her lips were swollen and flushed scarlet, dark marks forming along her neck. She looked absolutely perfect.

She leaned forward, capturing her girlfriend's lips in a slow, more tender kiss. Red pulled back smiling and nuzzled into the crook of her neck. “I really missed you princess.” she admitted quietly, burying her face deeper into Chloe’s chest.

Chloe laid down beside her, and Red happily cuddled into her, throwing her leg around her waist and placing her cheek against her sternum, listening to the bluenettes heartbeat.

“I missed you too, baby. So much” Chloe said, placing a kiss to the crown of Red’s head, inhaling the scent of her shampoo.

Chloe felt herself drifting to sleep when Red said.

“I wish we didn’t have to hide this.” She mumbled, words no more than a whisper yet felt so loud in the quietness of the room.

“Red, you know we can’t-”

“But we could Chloe.” Red said, sitting up. “We could tell them, we could tell them all and then we could just be us. No more hiding it.” She paused, thinking for a moment.

“We could hold each other, and, and we could kiss whenever we wanted to and not have to wait until we were alone.” She said, eyes pleading.

“Red please, I’ll tell them soon I swear, I just don't want to disappoint them.” She said, grabbing onto the redhead's hand. Red huffed and pulled her hand away.

“You’ve said that before Chloe.” She paused. “You asked me if I would be yours, and I said yes. I just want to be able to be yours. Without having to hide how much I love you.” She finished, Tears sliding down her cheeks. Shoulders wracking with quiet sobs.

Chloe’s heart broke at the sight. She gathered the girl into her arms and pulled the covers over both of them, her throat tight and voice cracking slightly. “Baby girl I promise you that we won’t have to hide this for much longer.” She took a deep breath.

“I’m going to tell them, and no matter what they say, you’ll be mine for the whole of Auradon to see.” She said, wiping away her girlfriend's tears.

Red nodded, curling back into Chloe’s chest, eyes now heavy with sleep, she tangled her fist into the bluenettes shirt, holding it like a lifeline.

Chloe wrapped her arms tightly around her, placing her chin on top of the girl's head. She heard her girlfriend’s breathing even out and felt her go lax in her arms. She smiled slightly.

She closed her eyes and let herself fall asleep, overjoyed to have her girlfriend back in her arms.

__________

They woke to a loud banging on the door.

“Chloe! Mom says lunch is ready!” Chad yelled from the other side of the door.

Red wined and tried to bury herself further into the bed sheets. Clearly regretting her choice to wake up early despite already napping on the way to Cinderellasburg.

“Okay, we’ll be down in a second!” Chloe called back, climbing out of bed, trying not to jostle Red in the process.

Red yawned, rubbing her eyes and sitting up, only to be met with Chloe’s shocked and almost horrified face. Red froze. “What's wrong?”

Chloe pointed to her neck. “We’re gonna have to find something to cover that with.” 

Red stood and made her way towards the ensuite. “What do you mean-” She gasped “Oh my Spades!” Chloe laughed nervously behind her. Red had hickies lining all along her collarbone, the one along her pulse point a deep purple. 

Chloe blushed beet red in embarrassment. She ducked into her walk in wardrobe pulling out a hoodie and holding it out to Red. “Here, this should cover it.” 

Red pulled the hoodie over her head, adjusting it slightly, nodding in approval and turned to the princess.

“Come on, let's go before Chad has to come fetch us again” She placed a quick peck on her girlfriend's lips, before they made their way to the dining room.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

As Red walked into the dining room she saw Ella stand to greet her.

“Hello my dear.” Ella said, pulling her in for an embrace. Red smiled and hugged her tightly.

“Hi Ella. It’s so good to see you.”

Ella pulled back and smiled at her. “You’re growing even more beautiful with each time that I see you.” She stroked her cheek affectionately and placed a kiss on her forehead.

She turned to see Chad sitting at the table. 

“Your majesty.” She said, mocking a courtesy.

“Your royal highness.” He replied, poking his tongue out at her.

They both laughed and she sat down beside him. “It’s good to see you, Chad.”

“Right back at ya little red.” She smiled and rolled her eyes.

Chloe sat down in the chair beside her and placed a hand on her thigh. Red felt blush creeping up her neck and placed her hand on top of Chloe’s, the other grabbing her fork.

“So.” Bridget began, looking at Chloe. “Red tells me you’ve made the Swords and Shields team, and as captain no less.” 

“Yes that’s right.” Chloe beamed. “All the training finally paid off I suppose .” She joked.

“Well that is very impressive.” Bridget said, congratulating her.

“Oh really it’s nothing.” She said growing flustered.

“Don’t be so modest Chloe.” Charming piped in. “You earned that title by putting in all the work and effort.”

Chloe smiled brightly. “Thanks Dad.”

Ella cleared her throat. “I’ve heard there's going to be a spring ball when school resumes, are you two excited?” Chloe paled slightly, she knew where this conversation was going, She and Red had agreed to go together under the assumption to others that they were going as friends.

Charming looked at his daughter. “If any boy asks to take you, tell him he has to come to me.” He said jokingly.

Chloe tried to laugh it off, highly aware of the fact that her girlfriend was sitting right beside her. “Yes dad I know,I know.” Her face turned bright red. She leant back in her chair, giving Red’s hand a squeeze in reassurance.

Her father noticed her flustered face. “Has someone already asked you Chloe?” He inquired. No, no one’s asked yet Dad, don't worry.” She said, shaking her head.

“Do any boys pique your interest?” Her mother asked innocently.

“Not really, but you never know.” She shrugged, trying to make it sound believable as possible.

She felt Red tear her hand away and look down towards the place setting. Her Mom continued “Well if you end up going with a nice boy, make sure to be back before midnight.” She winked, throwing her daughter a playful smile.

Chloe nodded, not wanting to further dig herself into the hole she found herself in.

Ella continued. “You know that your father and I fell in love at our first ball.” 

Bridget snorted, “So much for us going together.” She teased.

“Oh please, you were having the time of your life on the dance floor, who was i to interrupt.” Ella retorted.

“Anyway my dear, you never know what could happen, your own prince charming could be right around the corner-” chad cut in.

“Mom, maybe now isn't the best time.” He said quickly, noticing how tense his sister looked and how Red looked like she wanted to disappear.

Chloe raised her head. “You know no ones more excited to meet him than me Mom.” Managing a forced smile. What the hell was she saying?!

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

Red felt blood rush to her ears. She looked at Chloe, her face contorted in a hurt expression, eyes flooded with unshed tears, she couldn't take it anymore. She stood quietly, and swiftly exited the room, bounding up the stairs to the bulenettes room. She heard Chloe call after her.

“Red wait!” Chloe pleaded and grabbed her hand.

Red turned sharply, roughly snapping her hand away. “What the fuck was that Chloe.” She said,her tone ice cold. “Red plea-” 

“No!” Red shouted, pushing at Chloe’s chest, causing the girl to stumble backwards slightly. “ I’m so sick of this Chloe, You say that you’re going to tell them and then you go and say that? What the hell am I supposed to think!”

“Red you know It's not that simple.” she said, stepping towards the girl.

“Then enlighten me princess.” She bit back coldly.

“You heard them in there! Going on about me finding a prince someday, What was I supposed to say to that?! Sorry Mom and Dad, that's actually never going to happen because I'm madly in love with my best friend!”

Red stood up from where she was sitting on the bed. “You’re saying you love me when you’re too scared to even tell your parents about us?! You know what. I don't think you’re scared about disappointing them.”

“No, I think that you’re too scared to admit that you’re not as perfect as you want yourself to be.” Red finished, her words held no malice but they hit Chloe like a freight train.

Chloe didn’t know what to say, so she spun on her heel and walked out of the bedroom. Slamming the door behind her.

__________

Chad found Chloe outside some hours later, sparring with one of the training dummies. 

“Go away Chad. I don’t want to hear it.” She huffed already agitated and exhausted.

“I didn’t come to talk, I came to check on you, I heard the two of you fighting.” He admitted. 

She whipped around. “Did Mom and Dad hear?” She asked. Heart sinking to her stomach.

“No, they didn’t.” He said calmly. “But by guessing by the marks I saw on Red’s neck at lunch I think I can guess what the two of you were arguing about.” 

Chloe cursed herself. She threw her sword to the ground and buried her head in her hands.

“I wish I had noticed sooner.” He laughed slightly. “I probably should’ve guessed it. The two of you have always been attached at the hip.”

Chloe pulled her knees to her chest, “I really messed up.” She admitted quietly, Chad nodded in agreement.

“I want to tell Mom, tonight.” She said, making up her mind. “Do you want me to come with you?” Chad offered.

“Yes please.” She nodded.

Chad stood, offering an outstretched hand. “Come on sis.” He said with a small smile.

_ _ _ _ _ _  _

Ella was sitting in the drawing room, talking to Bridget over tea when she saw her children standing shyly at the door, like they did when they were kids and they had accidentally broken something they weren’t supposed to.

Chloe piped up. “Mom? Can I talk to you?” She asked, looking to the floor.

Ella nodded, setting her tea cup down. “Of course my love.” Bridget stood, giving the young princess a soft hug before leaving the room.

“You’ve got this.” Chad whispered in her ear, before following behind bridget.

Ella patted the chair across from her. “Come here Chlo.” she said, smiling warmly at her daughter.

Chloe sat down anxiously, “whats wrong my girl?” Ella asked, tucking a curl behind her daughter’s ear.

Chloe took a deep breath. “You asked me at lunch, if any boys had piqued my interest at school, and um…” She trailed off, nerves getting the better of her.

“Were you worried about saying something in front of your Father?” Ella asked.

“Not exactly.” She mumbled. “Mom. What if, what if I didn’t want to go with a boy?” She asked, lifting her head.

“You’d rather go by yourself?” Ella asked slightly confused as to what her daughter meant.

“N-No, with a girl, What if I went with a girl.” She practically froze, heart pounding out of her chest.

“Do you want to go with a girl?” Ella asked bemused.

She nodded and wrapped her arms around herself.

Ella’s eyes widened in realisation. “Chloe darling, are you trying to tell me that you like girls?” She asked, voice soft and clear.

“Yeah.” She said, her voice breaking and tears slowly slipping down to her chin.

Ella didn’t say anything. She simply rose from her chair and wrapped her daughter in a hug. 

“Shh. It’s okay sweetheart.” She said, rubbing circles on her back.

Chloe didn’t know how long she had been crying for but eventually her sobs were reduced to sniffles. “I’m sorry Mom.” She croaked, eyes red and puffy.

“You have nothing to apologise for my darling, Nothing at all” Ella said, wiping the remaining tears from her daughter's face.

“Are you disappointed in me? Don't sugar coat it, just tell me.” Chloe said, voice hollow yet stern.

“Disappointed in you? Chloe. Why on earth would i be-” 

“Because I'm not the princess you wanted me to be. I’m never going to find my prince charming like you did Mom.” She said quietly, almost ashamed to be saying it aloud.

“Chloe, i used to tell you the story of how i fell in love with your father when you were little in hopes you would know how to find love of your own.” She paused.

“What I didn't intend was for it to become a set of guidelines on what your love is supposed to look like.” Ella continued. “Prince or princess, you will always remain my daughter and the love that I have for you will never falter.” She took both her daughter’s hands in her own.

“I told you that you would find your prince someday. When what I should’ve said is that you’ll find love someday.” Ella said with a teary smile.

Chloe started to cry again. “I did.” She whispered. “I did Mom. I love her so much.” She started laughing, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand.

Ella smiled, “I can’t wait to meet her.” She said honestly. Chloe smiled slightly. “You already have.” She admitted. Ella looked puzzled before a flash of realisation washed over her.

“Red.” She stated softly.

Chloe bit the inside of her cheek. “Yes.” 

Ella pulled her daughter into a bone crushing hug.”Oh my darling. I'm so happy for you.” She said cupping her daughter's face. 

Of course it was Red. How had she not noticed before?

“You best not keep her waiting, go on, I’ll talk to your Father, don’t worry about a thing.” She pressed a quick kiss to her daughter's cheek before the young princess sped out the door.

Bridget walked in not even a moment later, sitting down beside her. “Was everything okay?”

Ella smiled. “It seems our girls have found love.”

__________

Red knew she crossed the line when Chloe slammed the door behind her.

When the sun had begun to set and there was still no sign of her girlfriend she knew she had to do something to make it right.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

When Chloe reached her bedroom door she could only hope the redhead wasn’t still angry towards her.

She took a deep breath and reached for the doorknob.

What she wasn’t expecting to see were fairy lights hung above her bed like a canopy, blankets and pillows thrown across the mattress, her laptop open to Netflix on her bedside next to what seemed a basket full of snacks.

And of course, Red sitting there waiting for her. Her head snapping up at the sound of the door opening. ‘’Hi.” She said, caught off guard.

“Hi.” Chloe smiled. “What's all this?”

Red cleared her throat. “I thought we could have a sleepover. Like old times.” She said, wringing her hands together.

“That sounds perfect.” She replied, climbing onto the bed and pulling her into a tight hug.

“I’m sorry.” She whispered into the crown of Red’s hair.

“Me too princess.” Red replied quietly.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

As they lay in comfortable silence while the movie credits played, Chloe repeated the words she had asked all those months ago.

“Will you be mine Red Hearts?” She asked, arms wrapped around her.

“Yes. I will be yours Chloe Charming.” She paused. “Only if you’ll be mine too.” She added quietly.

Chloe tilted her chin up, pulling her in for a slow kiss.

And as they broke away she said.

“I’m yours.”