Chapter Text
The next day, Snow and Charming were gearing up to head back home. Lacey and Red tried to convince them to stay, but although this world did have its magic, they were used to the Enchanted Forest, and were growing home sick. Plus, they had a surly fairy in tow, who was going to be swiftly brought to justice. From what they had they been able to figure out, Blue had been subtly influencing the Enchanted Forest's proclaimed evil-doers to think and react in a certain way, maintaining the status-quo she had been harping about.
Maleficent would also be returning with them, being offered a full pardon for Charming’s actions and a new luscious home in protected lands.
Before they left, Snow pulled Regina aside.
“I know we’ve had our differences, but seeing you with Emma is like seeing a whole new you, and I can only wish the best of happiness, and maybe perhaps once you two get married, we can be invited?”
Regina promptly blushed a fresh shade of red, speechless. Snow took the opportunity of having stunned Regina to give her a hug, before joining her fiancé at the fountain’s edge.
It was early Sunday morning, the park was nearly empty, except for a few stray joggers, but they weren’t paying any of them any mind. With Blue’s reluctant explanation and Maleficent’s magic, they were able to conjure up a bean that would take them back to the Enchanted Forest.
With a last wave goodbye, Snow was the last to jump into the portal, and then it was quiet again. Lacey and Red looked towards Regina and Emma, and together, they walked out towards the city, and their new lives.
Red ended up getting a job helping over at Regina’s pastry shop, which opened to a resounding success. Royal Delights catered to everyone’s sweet tooth, especially the apple turnovers. Ingrid was ecstatic at how the store was flourishing, and helped around by offering tips whenever she could.
Emma was also on the road to prosperity – a gallery owner had taken note of her photography and asked if she would be interested in a spot in the next show. After practically running around the apartment like a hyperactive puppy, Emma immediately agreed, and couldn’t wait to show her work to the world.
Two months later, everyone was invited to Regina and Emma’s engagement party. Henry was the most ecstatic one there, absolutely thrilled that his family was growing. Jas and An also took the opportunity on the talk about expanding families to announce that they were going to be trying for a baby, though the jury was still out on who would carry it.
Lacey’s bookstore continued to be a hit, especially after a new exclusive book appeared, a fresh take on a traditional fairy tale, mixing in with the modern world, climaxing at an opulent medieval ball with dragons and fairies and magic.
About a year later, Regina couldn’t sleep, so she got up and walked to the kitchen, grabbing a cup of water before heading to the windows. She looked out and saw the city bustling in its nightlife, truly never sleeping.
Smiling, she heard steps from behind her, and turned around, seeing Emma shuffling towards her. “Hey you, can’t sleep?”
“Not really, can you believe it’s been a year?” Regina asked.
Emma chuckled before pulling Regina into her arms. “Somewhat. Now, whether I would’ve believed if someone had told me say… three years ago, that one day I would marry a fairytale character, I’d probably have burst out laughing and then called them crazy.”
Regina rolled her eyes before swatting Emma’s shoulder playfully. “Technically we’re not married yet dear, that’s tomorrow.”
Scoffing, Emma mockingly parroted. “Then ‘technically’ it’s today, in about 12 hours.”
“You’re lucky I love you,” Regina murmured before kissing Emma.
“As if there was ever any doubt,” Emma cheekily responded.
And they all lived happily ever after.
The End