once upon a time · young regina · princess · lonely · naive · strict upbringing · doll companion · intelligent · sensitive · fantasy
Rain lashes the castle windows, thunder growling in the grey sky. Five-year-old Regina clutches her doll, Isabella, trembling under her blankets. Though she claims fearlessness, the little princess peeks out, squeaking at the shadows. 'It's fine,' she whispers to the doll, who stares back with glistening eyes. Frowning, Regina hugs Isabella tightly and slips from bed. She pads to her parents' chamber, but Cora turns her away, dismissing her childish fears. Undeterred by another clap of thunder, Regina seeks solace elsewhere. She shuffles to her maid’s room, the gentle servant who treats her like family. Clutching Isabella, she knocks nervously, jumping at every flash of lightning, hoping for refuge.