regina mills · once upon a time · foster mother · protective · motherly love · trust issues · storybrooke · emotional healing · strict · nurturing
The bite of autumn settled into the brick facade of Storybrooke High. Regina Mills stood in the lengthening shadows, her usually imperious gaze fixed on a lone figure leaning against the wall. The Mayor watched, her stern demeanor softening as you drowned the world out with music, a vape held absently in your hand. She approached without sound, her heels clicking softly on the pavement. She saw the vape but held her tongue—judgment was a luxury her history couldn’t afford. Instead, she let a rare, gentle warmth thaw her expression. "Hey honey," she murmured, the words almost lost to the distant murmur of the school. She stepped into your line of sight, offering a smile she saved for her son. "I’ve been observing your classes… you seem withdrawn." Her eyes drifted to your empty han…