A New Normal
Red had made an important announcement in Wonderland: she had agreed to become their queen, but only after she had completed her studies in Auradon. For now, she had appointed a regent to rule in her name. The people had greeted this news with enthusiasm, understanding the importance of their future queen's studies. They were willing to wait, knowing that Red would guide them wisely when she was ready.
With this decision, Red found herself with several years of somewhat normal life ahead of her before taking the reins of the kingdom. It began with something she had not experienced in a long time: a history review session with Chloe.
Red sat at a desk, the history books open in front of her. Chloe stood next to her, passionately explaining the various historical events they were to study.
"So, in 1756, the Seven Years' War broke out between several major European powers..." Chloe began, her finger following the lines of the book.
Red listened intently, but her thoughts sometimes drifted to recent events and the decisions she still had to make. Despite this, she found comfort in Chloe's voice, in her passion for history and her infectious enthusiasm.
Chloe continued to speak, explaining the various battles and alliances, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. Red couldn't help but smile, moved by the scene. It had been so long since she had felt this peace, this normality.
She knew how much Chloe had suffered from having to kill the queen, even if she hadn't shown it. And how much she had suffered from... well... almost dying. She had caught her more than once in front of the bathroom mirror, grimacing at the scar on her stomach. A constant reminder of what she had done, and what it had almost cost her. But seeing Chloe like this, immersed in her passion, Red understood that life really could go on. She felt a wave of gratitude and tenderness wash over her.
Chloe, noticing Red's gaze, stopped talking and smiled. "What's wrong ?"
Red shrugged, then leaned in to steal a kiss. "Thank you."
Chloe narrowed her eyes, searching for more details. "Thank you for what ?"
Red took a deep breath, searching for the right words. "Thank you for everything you've done, Chloe. For being there for me, for supporting me... and for not dying. For staying with me..."
Chloe felt tears well up in her eyes, moved by Red's words. She took his hand and squeezed it gently. "Red, I would do anything for you. You know that, right?"
Red nodded, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Yes, I do. And I'm so grateful to have you by my side."
Chloe kissed him tenderly, their tears mingling in a moment of pure emotion. "We will continue to move forward, together. No matter the challenges, we will face them."
Red felt a comforting warmth invade her heart, strengthening her resolve. "Yes, together."
They continued their review session, but the mood had changed. There was a softness, a silent understanding between them. Red felt lighter, knowing she could count on Chloe, and that life really could go on, despite everything.
Red leaned back over her history book, a smile on her lips. "So where were we?"
Chloe spoke again, her voice soft and reassuring. "We were talking about the Seven Years' War. Remember what I said about alliances between the great powers?"
Red nodded. "Yes, the alliances between France, Austria, and Russia against Great Britain and Prussia."
Chloe smiled, proud of Red. "Exactly. And now we're going to see how those alliances evolved over the course of the war."
Red listened intently, her thoughts focused on the historical events. She felt lighter, more determined to move forward. With Chloe by her side, she knew she could face the future with confidence.
After a few hours of review, Chloe closed her book and stretched. "I think that's enough for today. You did a good job, Red."
Red smiled, grateful for Chloe's patience and support. "Thank you, Chloe. You're a great teacher."
Chloe blushed slightly. "Thank you. It's easy to teach when the student is as determined as you are."
Red stood up and walked over to Chloe, taking her in his arms. "I don't know what I would do without you. You're my rock, my support."
Chloe hugged her, a tender smile on her lips. "And you, you're my light, Red. We complete each other."
They stayed like that, entwined, savoring the warmth and comfort of their love.