The Magic Within ↠ Once Upon A Time

[Chapter 22] Another Chance?

"What exactly did she tell you?"

"That's between us."

I grin. "Fair enough. So, we've got another heir to the throne?"

She chuckles. "Not exactly. But, if we never make it back to the Enchanted Forest, there's no way you're going to make it to the Mayor's seat."

I giggle. "I see how it is. Then, I can say the same about the Sheriff position."

"I won't argue about that. It's a win-win for me."

"Wait- what?"

She scoffs. "You seem to be forgetting that Henry and Melody are my children after all."

"And, I always seem to forget that part."

"You always do, Emma."

I laugh.

Then, I glance at the two siblings in front of me. For once, in like a week, I finally see Henry's eyes lighting up with excitement. His lively spirit was brought back. He was back to the joyful believer I remember him to be. I didn't realize how much his 'new' sister meant to him. I didn't realize how much he was willing to go to make sure they were together. I never realized how much life siblings could bring to each other. Sure, I have my baby brother, Neal, but we're so far apart. We don't have the close age difference as Henry and Melody do. Even with the short time, those two already connected; it seemed like destiny was meant to bring them together. These siblings went through so much just to make sure that they were okay. Heck, Melody took Henry out of harm's way just to protect him. Their connection was already so strong.

I see why Henry did whatever it took to get his sister. I understand why he went through all this trouble. He does have the heart of the truest believer, after all.

But, there was still something inching in my head. "... Regina?"

She looks at me. "What?"

"Are you sure we can trust her?"

"What are you implying?" she said, in annoyance.

"I mean, she did hurt you. She blasted you with magic."

"I'm sure she has a logical reason for that."

"I get it, but we don't know a lot about her past."

"You mean, you don't know about her past."

"Yes, but you don't know everything about her either. You never knew about her life in the Forbidden Jungle. We don't know what she was doing all this time."

"I don't like what you're implying here, Emma. I understand that you're only doing your job as sheriff. But, can you stop with this attitude? Can't you believe that Melody is what Henry and I perceive her to be? A good person."

"Yes, I c-"

"Well, then you better cut it. You're starting to go back to your dark ways."

I let out a puff of air. "Fine. But, can I ask you just one thing?"

"What?!"

"You never exactly told any of us why you gave up your daughter."

"That's because you never asked."

"Then," I turn my head towards her, staring straight into her eyes. "Why did you give Melody up?"