Different Worlds

Chapter 2

For the first time ever, I am going to try uploading chapters every single day as a personal challenge of mine. I might have to do every other day, depending on how life goes. First off, thank you all for reading and reviewing, it really lifts my spirits and motivates me every time I see a new comment. Secondly, some people are concerned about the age difference between Emma and Regina. Here is my thoughts on that:

* Emma doesn't see Regina as a mother figure, more so as a friend. She doesn't allow herself to see people that way ever since her parents abandoned her.

*To call this story 'sick' simply because you want this to be a friendship or mother/daughter rather than romance is really disrespectful, and in no way did I tell you to 'ignore it'. I simply said it won't be like adultery or anything. If you don't like it, don't read it. Simple as that.

*I am writing for myself, and I have a vision of how I want this to go. Please only leave constructive criticism rather than hate.

Other than those few key points, I hope you enjoy this story.

When I wake, I read a few chapters of Emma's book then go to the dining hall for breakfast. Leopold is just finishing up his meal. He stands and kisses me quickly before helping me in my chair.

"Are you going somewhere?" I ask curiously as a steward comes through carrying a few bags.

Leopold sighs. "I must go to Sherwood Forest, my dearest. The king has requested my arrival to help with the bandits overrunning the kingdom. I will be back as soon as I can." He cups my face, running the pad of his thumb along my jawline. "Will you be alright for a few days, my love?"

"Of course." I fight not to pull away in disgust at how rough his fingers had treated me the night before.

He smiles kindly. "This way you can settle into your new home and get to know the girls."

The sound of running footsteps echoes through the room. "Father do you have to go?" Snow whines as she enters with Emma in tow.

Leopold sweeps his daughter off his feet and holds her tight. "I'm afraid so, Snow. I'll be back soon." He sets her gently on her feet, pulling something from his fur cloak. "I'll leave you with a departing gift."

Snow gasps in delight. "My leash and collar! Oh thank you thank you, Father!" The girl stands on her tiptoes to kiss the man's cheek.

Emma looks less than delighted as she stares at the pink-jeweled 'toy' that was meant for her to wear. My heart aches for her, and I wish I was strong enough to voice my disapproval. Snow is treating the girl like a servant, not a sister.

As soon as Leopold is gone, Snow invites me to play. "You can be the mother, I'll be the daughter, and Emma will be the pet!"

I agree only to keep an eye on Emma to make sure Snow doesn't hurt her. Snow attaches the collar to Emma's neck and pulls her along. "Get on your hands and knees!" She orders. "Dogs can't walk on their hind legs!"

Emma does as she's told, keeping her eyes trained on the floor. I trail along behind, trying to work up the courage to tell Snow to stop. The young princess is above me on the royal scale, after all. One sour word to her father and I'll be sent back to Mother's clutches. She is waiting for me to fail, I'm sure.

The sound of gasping and choking catches my attention. Snow kicks Emma hard in the ribs, causing her to collapse onto the stone floor.

"Snow!" I cry, rushing over to the little girl crumpled onto the ground. "You don't treat people like this!" I quickly unclasp the collar and throw it to the side.