The moment Snow stepped inside Grace wrapped her arms around her legs, hugging her tightly. Jefferson smiled softly down at the two of them. It was nice to see Grace so happy. Although she did seem to be a happy child in general. Jefferson worked hard to give her everything she needed, be everything she wanted although they were poor as anything. He liked to believe Grace had all the important things, a papa that loved and supported her. At least she wasn’t an orphan. For now, she didn’t have to worry about doing dangerous work like making hats. No, not his Grace! He wouldn’t allow it!
And they’d been hiding for a good six years now. King George still hadn’t found them. Jefferson would like to believe they were safe. But he knew it wasn’t so. The king was still searching for them even after all this time. He was intent on making Jefferson suffer, ripping away the last of his family.
But such gloomy thoughts didn’t fit the cheery occasion. It was Grace’s birthday; and, his friend had come for tea. At least Jefferson would like to think they were friends after all they’d been through. He still didn’t have the nerve to ask. How could he? She’d already given him so much, everything, his heart, his light, his world.
He chuckled, noticing what a difficult time Snow was having walking with little Grace clinging to her leg.
“I want to be a princess like Snow!” Grace cheered when Snow agreed that a princes or lady was never late for tea. Oh silly Snow, refusing to acknowledge her roots. She was so much more than a lady. And as much as Regina would be upset by it, he’d like to see her rule. She had a kind and gentle heart that would do this kingdom good. And she’d gained a great deal more practicality and common sense ever since becoming a bandit. She had a level head the kingdom would prosper from. But for now, these were just pipe dreams. Regina had no intention of letting Snow rule.
If wasn’t as though Jefferson had entirely given up on Regina. If she could just focus her energies on something besides this pointless quest for revenge, she would make a magnificent queen. She did care about people even now. He was sure of it. She was never someone who wanted to be hated or despised. She wished for people to love her. And they would if she could just give up this Snow hunt. Regina could inspire loyalty because she was clever and strong and deep down, he was sure she was still kind. That sweet, naive young queen he’d first met still existed somewhere. Regina couldn’t have entirely smothered that young lady.
Grace beamed as Snow dotted her nose and ruffled her hair; and, Jefferson offered another rare smile, a tender one which touched his eyes. Snow was so good for his daughter. It was really nice of her to go out of her way to visit them.
He chuckled when Snow stuck her tongue out him.
“Now! Now! Such behavior is unbecoming for a princess!” he teased, waving his finger at her in feigned admonishment.
“I’m great Snow!” Grace exclaimed, enthusiastically bouncing up and down. Yes, his little girl was a bundle of energy. He adored her.
“What about you, Papa?!” she asked, whirling around to stare at him.
Jefferson leaned down and scooped Grace up in his arms, hugging her close.
“I’m always good when I’m with you, sweetie.” Grace just giggled as he cuddled her.
“Special day?” Jefferson asked, tilting his head quizzically, acting like he was deep in thought.
“Nothing comes to mind.”“My birthday! It’s my birthday!” Grace cheered.
“Your birthday?" Jefferson questioned, staring down at his daughter in mock surprise.
“No, it’s much too early for that!”“It’s not! Snow, you know don’t you?! Tell Papa it’s my birthday!” she pouted.
Snow White/Mary MargaretOOC: I have permission from Grace to NPC little her for this thread!