Lana hadn’t heard a whisper about a new addition to Once Upon a Time’s cast—no memo, no heads-up, nothing. As far as she knew, the lineup was set, the story locked in.

Yet here she was, tugging on Regina’s gloves in the dim glow of the makeup mirror, only to catch sight of someone unfamiliar. A woman. Young, striking, effortlessly commanding attention without even trying. No older than 18, maybe 22 at most.

Lana smooths down the deep velvet of her costume, adjusts the delicate twist of her hair, and breathes in the familiar rhythm of stepping into Regina’s skin. And then, with the kind of effortless confidence that carries her through both persona and reality, she crosses the set.

A poised, effortless smile—one she’s perfected over years in the industry—settles onto her lips as she extends a hand.

"Hi! You must be the new cast member—it’s lovely to meet you."

Brown eyes meet hers, warm but edged with curiosity. She may be wearing Regina’s armor—high collars and measured restraint—but there is no mistaking it. This is Lana, standing before her. And something flickers beneath that practiced smile.

Attraction?

No. Not exactly.

She doesn’t date women.

But that doesn’t stop her fingers from lingering, her grip firm yet just shy of reluctant to let go.