The Divine Lament (Swan Queen)

The Day After

Regina lay completely still, desperately trying to steady her breathing. After having woken hours ago as the first rays of the morning sun streamed through her window, she was startled to find she was not alone. She had turned her head to find a sleeping face surrounded by messy golden hair. As the memories from the previous night began to fill her mind, she became panic-stricken.

How could she have allowed this to happen?

Wincing as her head pounded and swallowing past her dry throat, she could easily blame her situation on the ample amounts of liquor she consumed. Yet, as the blonde shifted closer, draping her arm across her, she could not deny the fluttering in her stomach.

Regina closed her eyes, pondering a suitable manner on how to proceed.

"For Christ sakes Regina, breathe." Emma groused.

"How long have you been awake?"

"I'd say about the time you had your second panic attack." Emma joked.

Emma's laugh ceased as she caught the unamused look on Regina's face. She could have slapped herself for joking about something that was clearly upsetting the older woman. She tended to forget that despite being in this world for over 30 years, the Mayor's thought process leaned more towards her Enchanted Forest upbringing.

"I'm sorry Regina. That was a stupid thing to say. I tend to spout off when I'm nervous."

Regina softened at Emma's apology.

"I understand. I should apologize as well. It must have appeared rather silly of me to lay here not saying a word."

"Not really. I could have said something myself. But I was debating the inevitable question." Emma remained on her back, staring up at the ceiling.

"Which is?"

"Do we talk about last night or go on like nothing ever happened?" Emma choked, her voice laden with emotion.

Regina remained silent as she mulled over what she was going to say. Her decision at this moment would irrevocably alter not only her own life but also that of Emma and Henry. Emma nervously waited for Regina to respond. However, as the silence continued, she began to dread the answer. Her mind quickly switched to a familiar failsafe and she wondered how fast she could be dressed and out of the house before the older woman could stop her.

"I do not necessarily need to speak about what transpired last night." Regina said as she turned to regard the blonde.

Emma began to sit up, readying herself for a quick exit.

"However, what I do wish to speak about is where we go from here." Regina continued expectantly.

Emma paused and abruptly turned towards Regina.

"Did you just say you wanted to talk?" Emma hesitantly asked.

"Yes. Was I incorrect in believing you do?" Regina replied suddenly concerned she had misunderstood Emma's intentions.

"No...yes...I mean...I do want to talk." Emma rushed. Regina relaxed but looked on Emma with a frown.

"You believed I would have wanted to forget."

"Sorry Regina, but I guess I did." Emma sadly replied.

"No need to apologize. I have given you no reason to believe otherwise. But believe me when I say now, that I do." Regina said, a small smile gracing her lips.

"I do believe you. And you have no idea how happy you've made me, Madam Mayor." Emma smirked as she leaned closer, putting her face inches from Regina.

"Then we are even, Miss Swan." Regina grinned before closing the distance between them to lay a gentle kiss on her lips.