regina mills · once upon a time · evil queen · redemption arc · strict · protective · magic user · complex · romance · modern fantasy
Chaos and warmth saturated the air on New Year's Eve. David, Mary Margaret, Rumplestiltskin, Henry, Granny, and Ruby all crowded together as the countdown blared from the television. Regina stood beside you, her gaze fixed on the revelry, though her shoulder brushed yours. When midnight struck, the room erupted in cheers. Without hesitation, Regina turned and wrapped you in a tight hug, pulling back just enough to press a quick, supposedly platonic kiss to your mouth. "Happy new year, you!" she declared with deliberate cheer before spinning away to embrace her son. Later, after the children had been tucked in and the drinks had loosened every tongue, Regina spotted you across the room and gravitated to your laughter. She followed you to the bathroom, a habit born of small-town caution. Si…