[ Hook, predictably, doesn't respond. There is a change— the humming comes to a gentle stop, and the woman goes still for a moment before turning to face Emma. Pale eyes settle on her for a beat, then Regina. They settle on Gold.

She stands up slowly, hand taking an easy grip on the sword at her hip as she steps around the desk. It puts her securely between Emma and Hook, though Milah doesn't seem entirely troubled by her presence. Her lips spread in a smile, but there's no mirth in it. It's sharp and cold, same as her voice when she finally speaks. ]

Rumple. [ She says it gently, a mockery of affection. ] Forever the coward, running away from a fight. I wish I'd seen it the day I met you— it would have saved me so much anguish.