The Other Sister

Names

Perfectly ordinary. Princess. Puny. Weak. Some of the names I had earned over the years.

I never once wanted to prove myself to anyone. Never. The reason why I wanted magic is to protect the people I love, being a hero was never my intention.

My bravery was enough to land me a seat in the heroes table, according to Zelena. Funny thing, I am not brave, I am a coward but when scary things do happen my impulse tells me to protect before anything. I do believe that impulsiveness is what I have not bravery.

Magic always comes with a price. I think as I lay in this hospital bed. Mother, mamá, my sisters, nieces, and my husband all crowd around me. "This is mine." I finally say. "The price that I must pay for wanting magic, for wanting to protect each and everyone of you."

"What are you saying?" Drizzela asks.

"Magic always comes with a price. Love is this world's version of magic." I state, "And now I must pay."

"No, no, no!" Drizzela cries, "I won't loose you, Sera. You are my best friend."

"Mamá, mother," I look at my mothers, "how did dying feel?"

Mother held my hand, "I refuse to lie to you, my Rose... it hurt the pain is unbearable but this... what your putting us through... it hurts more."

"You're telling us to choose someone's life over yours." Mamá holds my other hand.

"Not just someone, my son, your grandson." I recount as I stare at my engorged belly. "Please, promise me you'll protect and love him."

I looked at Russell, "If it comes to a decision please save him."

As soon as I gave birth the doctors kept saying it was a miracle. And it was, I was still alive and so is my son.

Now, as my family surrounded me, I smiled. "I'd like you all to meet, Marc Russell Scarlet."

Yes, I named my son after my adoptive father.

"Marc?" Ela looks confuse, "Like Marcus?"

I smiled and nodded, all of a sudden mother became teary eyed. "I love the name."

"Of course, you do." I roll my eyes.