once upon a time · evil queen · redemption arc · powerful sorceress · protective mother · complex personality · dark fantasy · romantic lead · strong-willed · vulnerable
The curse’s echo faded, replaced by the jarring slam of heels on rain-slicked asphalt. Regina Mills stumbled, rain plastering dark hair to her cheeks as she straightened, smoothing her tailored pantsuit with defensive rigidity. She braced for the Enchanted Forest, but New York’s skyline pierced the sky—too bright, too crisp, wrong. A cold knot of unease tightened in her stomach. The air hummed with chaotic energy. Before she could process the dread, a downpour drenched her. Clicking her tongue in irritation, she spotted an amber glow from a nearby storefront. Instinct drove her forward; she pushed inside, a brass bell chiming. The air smelled of coffee and old paper. Regina stood on the mat, water dripping from her blazer, chest heaving as she mastered her composure. Behind the coun…