Prologue
She listened as rain pattered against her window. Listened to the soothing sound, as the words continued to haunt her. Coursing through her brain like a poison. Slowly killing everything and eating her from the inside out. But this hadn't been her choice. No. But learning to shelter burdens wasn't a new feat. The circumstances changed but she could handle it with the class and grace her mother had drilled into her. After all, it wasn't like she had a choice and the thought made her grit her teeth. Her fingers tightened around the glass in her hand. As her tanned knuckles began to turn a frosty white, before a resigned sigh escaped her lips.
As her mind slipped back into conversation after conversation she had, had with her doctor.
"Regina I wish there was more that we could do. But for now continue staying active and taking your medications. We'll just have to keep our fingers crossed."
Each trip over the course of fifteen years had been the same words. Sometimes less, sometimes more, sometimes the words were even pretty. Giving her a false sense of hope, but as she had gotten older she recognized the words for what they were. Empty promises, and nothing had been different this trip.
Bringing the glass to her lips, she welcomed the burn as the aged scotch slid down her throat. Taking a final glance out of the water cover glass, Regina moved away from the window. At least something here could grow and flourish, she thought as she settled her glass on the wooden table beside the window.
An empty smile curved her lips as she moved over the glossed oak floors. Eyeing an old wooden panel, as her thin fingers traced across its smooth surface. Her family home was the only thing she had grown to love and take care of. It had become her haven. Comforted her and built a fortress around her when the rest of her world had crumbled. It was the only thing that hadn't changed.
Regina relished in the feeling of her feet, pressing against the cold floor. As she continued toward her bedroom. Pulling her shirt over her head as she went. Tomorrow was a new day. It was a motto she had chanted to herself for years. She just wished she didn't have to spend it alone.
"Happy birthday," she whispered to herself as she closed her bedroom door.
Emma clung to her son and the jacket she had haphazardly thrown over him in haste after she had felt the first drops of rain over her pale flesh. Coming ultimately out of nowhere surprising the blonde. Using her free hand she tightened the strap over her chest. Careful not to jostle her sleeping son, who had been a trooper through the whole ordeal. Never complaining as they went from place to place. Content with pretending they were superheroes making it in an unforgiving world of villains. But she knew she needed to find something more stable. She needed to find some sort form of housing, and work but the thought quickly came and left. The money she had saved was almost gone and she had no idea where she was. Rain trickled down her face, catching on the end of her long eye lashes as she trekked forward.
Gravel and dirt that was quickly turning mud clumps, clung to her boots. Henry stirred in her arms, after a small coughing spell. Somewhere during their travels Henry had acquired a minimal cold. And what was left of the medicine she had bought for said cough had disappeared two busses ago. Settling, Emma gently rocked him and attempted to settle him as he drifted back to sleep. With each step she took she could feel her body growing heavier as she continued on. Bringing her free hand up to occasionally wipe away the water that had collected on her face.
At least the moon was out tonight though, Emma acknowledged. As pale moonlight guided the path, providing just enough light to see in front of her. While forcing her eyes to adjust to the rest. Emma tried to ignore the growing pain in her side, despite it feeling like a toothache in her skin. Aching coursed through her side. The discomfort enough to make her feel like she would crumble under the anguish. In the distance the blonde spotted a shadowy silhouette of what appeared to be a barn.
Soft green eyes cast a quick look down at her sleeping son. Chewing her lip in concentration, she thought about the possibility. It wasn't what she wanted to do, but running low on cash sometimes left for desperate decisions.
Feeling it was her best option, she diverted from her current path. Carefully stepping over a ditch filled with fast rushing water, nearly causing the young mother to lose her balance in the process. She grimaced at the thought as she dug her heels into the earth. Willing them to stabilize her as she shifted the small boy in her arms to regain complete balance.
"Mommy?" Came her son's tired voice as he tried to peak at her from under the jacket. "Where are we?"
The rain lightened, as if wanting to hear the answer Emma had to offer as well. But the truth was she didn't know.
Henry took her silence as permission to continue. "Are we at our new home yet?" New Home. The words from her promise a week ago were now being thrown in her face. She had made her baby a solemn swear that they would start over. That they would get a do over, but now that dream seemed further away than ever. And to Emma it was hard to swallow, like bile raising in her throat.
"Not yet bud." Emma didn't miss his reluctant sigh. Returning her eyes forward, as she squinted searching the distance. Making out an aging fence that lined the property. It wasn't a large fence, but it was still high enough for an adult to need to climb it to get over it.
"Where are we mommy?' Henry asked again. Elevating his tone over the increasing rain as his mother continued forward along the fence. Looking for an opening.
Emma had nearly forgotten how inquisitive her son could be. Searching the recesses of her mind for a convincing answer, she sighed.
"A friend's farm," the lie slipped easily off her tongue. Releasing a breath of relief, she grinned as she stepped over several pieces of wood that had likely fallen out of the post due to the storm. Or old age. Perhaps it had been a mixture of both. But it was nice to see fate on her side for once regardless.
"Then why aren't we going to the front door?" His curiosity peaked as his mother jostled him in her arms. Stepping over the broken down part of the wooden fence.
"We wouldn't want to make a mess would we?" Emma commented. Pausing to hold out her hand so he could watch the rain collect in her hand. Temporarily satisfied with the answer, Henry lowered his head back to her chest, and she continued her walk.
This wasn't the life Emma had foreseen for herself. Sure she had, had her rebellious stage and it had cost her greatly. But she never pictured herself a trespasser trying to protect her son from the elements with meager resources. No after she found out she was pregnant she hadn't expected it to be easy, but certainly not this hard. But Henry had made it all worth it. Her baby was perfect and smarter than she could've hoped for. Even though it proved to be annoying and ill-timed occasionally. Her mind raced as she crossed the large field. Doing her best to stay hidden as she moved, just in case. Creeping along the field taking in the large machinery as she made her way toward the barn.
Emma's feet thanked her as she came to a halt in front of the barn doors. Suddenly unable to fight the smile that surfaced on her lips at there not being a lock, before she sat Henry on his feet.
"Okay buddy we have to be quiet ok?" She didn't wait for an answer, before turning back to the door and slipping her hands around the handles. Giving a small grunt, Emma pulled the heavy door open just enough for herself and Henry to squeeze inside. Using the end of her boot she forced the aged leather under the small opening, and closed the door as much as possible. Tiny hands took a firm hold to the sweatshirt she sported, as she reached around her back. Pulling a small flashlight free from one of the side pockets.
Pushing in the power switch, Emma pointed the flash light at her hand. Watching it flicker momentarily before sparking to life and staying on. Casting a dull light in front of them, Emma took Henry's hand as they all but tip-toed forward. Calming her breathing, the blonde pointed the light around the barn. On one side were several stalls. Low breathing and quick snuffs of breath greeted the blonde as she slowly turned the light toward the sound.
In front of mother and son stood two horses that occupied the stalls closest to the door. Releasing the breath she wasn't aware she had been holding she aimed the light toward her son.
"It's okay Hen." Emma whispered in attempts not to spook the horses. She had read about animals sensing fear, so she took slow breaths hoping to alleviate the fear that threatened to crawl up her spine. "They are just horses. Don't be scared." Emma whispered. Not sure if she was trying to convince herself more or her son.
"I'm not scared mommy. I like horses. Maybe your friend will let me ride one day."
Emma bit the inside of her cheek to prevent giving a verbal answer. She had already lied to her son enough. Silence feel between the two as Emma moved deeper into the barn. Keeping the illumination from the flashlight low as she surveyed the shelter. Appreciating it's rustic and sturdy build. On the opposite side were more unoccupied stalls. The duo pushed further into barn, until Emma spotted what she had been looking for. A large enclosed section of hay bales.
"Ready to be a cowboy for the day?" Mother whispered to son as she shined the light over to the bales. Henry had once upon a time been obsessed with knights and cowboys, before he grew up. Graduating more into the need for 'grown up' heroes. So he had succumb to the superman's and iron man's of the comic world.
A small piece of the blonde hated the fact her son was growing up before her eyes.
"I thought we were superheroes?" Henry questioned. Unable to remove the slight elevation in his voice. And Emma could tell he was trying to cover up his excitement.
"We can be both. And no one has to know." His mother smiled. Spotting a wooden beam, where she leaned the flashlight. Pleased at the small area it illuminated. Shuffling the bag off her shoulder, she removed the spare jackets and shirts and placed them over the hay as efficiently as she could. Creating a small pallet for her son.
"Alright you know the drill. Up you go!" Her voice slightly commanded as she watched her son hop on to the side by side bales. "Story time?"
"I was hoping you'd tell me about... about your friend. If we're meeting tomorrow."
A sigh escaped at the brunette's inquiry. It seemed Henry had indeed acquired her curiosity in the gene pool. Running a hand through her dampened hair, she stared at her baby. Who was now huddled on his makeshift bed. Looking up to her with a renewed sense of wonder.
The mother let out a small chuckle. No one had forced her to think about her past life. When she left it behind, she had planned to do just that leave it behind. But apparently she hadn't buried it deep enough. And as a consequence it was staring back at her through the eyes of her six almost seven year old son.
"What do you want to know bud?"
"Everything!" He exclaimed joyfully at the possibility of learning new information.
"Everything huh? How about five questions then you try to rest."
"Seven?" He tried.
"Four." Emma prodded back. Biting the inside of her cheek to hold back the laugh that threatened to surface. As Henry pouted and furrowed his brows at the lowered proposition.
"Fine six."
"Henry." She warned. "Do you want to ask the questions or not? Take it or leave it buddy."
A nod greeted Emma. "Five," He whispered in a defeated tone that made the blonde's heart ache. She never wanted to deny her son anything he wanted, but he needed rest.
"What's her name?"
"Lily."
"What happened to her?"
"We grew up together. Our families were very close. But I wasn't a good friend."
"Did you say sorry? I know you didn't mean to. Apologizing makes things better."
Emma smiled at her son's innocent logic. There was no apology that could make Lily forgive her. Not after what she had done to her. Maybe if she had apologized things would be better. But life and time had separated them. And a piece of Emma doubted she would see her best friend again. Did she even have the right to call Lily a friend anymore?
"No buddy I didn't. But maybe I should."
"Will she like me?"
"She'd love you. You're a great kid. You're my son after all." She shot her son a sly wink, before lightly tickling him. "Alright last question."
"I'm going to save it. Night mom." He exclaimed quickly, before turning his back to his mother. To find a more comfortable position. Shock settled over her features before a weak smiled met her lips.
"Good night kid."
Next Day
Sunlight broke through the vintner's bedroom window, shining directly into her already open eyes. Regina had tossed most of the night. Sleep had escaped her, but that was fine. She didn't sleep most nights. Worrying and loneliness managed to keep her company.
Turning her head away from the ceiling, the brunette stared at the bright numbers on her alarm clock.
6:45
Finding no reason to remain in bed any longer. Regina sat up, running her fingers through her coiffed layers. Then under her tired eyes, gathering her thoughts as she left the sleeping area. Moving toward her en-suite bathroom to prepare for the day.
An hour later. Regina sauntered into her kitchen pleased to see her working crew indulging in light coffee and conversation. The floor beneath her boots alerted the men of her presence as three pairs of eyes looked in her direction.
"Good morning."
"Mornin'."
"Miss Mills."
They all greeted. As Regina greeted them with a smile of her own.
"Gentlemen."
Pleased with her morning greeting, the winemaker moved deeper into the kitchen. Preparing herself a cup of coffee, as she listened in on the morning conversation.
"The rain last night was terrible. It was so forceful it nearly uprooted Counts dog house. Poor lad almost floated away. Charlotte made me bring him inside and now we have a fresh coat of mud on the furniture." Edmund shook his head at the memory.
"I sympathize. The kids couldn't get out to play. The misses and I had to occupy two toddlers and a newborn." Daniel chimed in. "I never thought I'd be excited to be away from home."
Daniel shot Regina an apologetic look, which she shook off with the subtle wave of her hand.
"Well Leslie and I enjoyed a quiet evening."
The other two men looked at the youngest member of their crew with mixed looks of jealousy and intrigue. Before they settled for a deep groan.
"What I wouldn't give for a quiet night. I love my children don't get me wrong. But they're so damn demanding. Graham I envy you lad. I miss freedom."
"Despite the new decoration to ninety-five percent of our home. I wouldn't wish for anything different. Falling in love was the best decision I ever made."
Regina listened. Taking a sip of coffee as she watched her men talk about the thing she longed for most, but knew she'd never have. Someone to come home to. Some to share a future with. Someone to love.
"Miss Mills how about you?" Came twenty-six year old Graham's voice.
Looking up from the coffee cup in her hand at the mention of her name. Regina was confused when she looked up at her oldest employees and saw fear present in their eyes. Graham was fairly new and still learning the ropes. So he was unaware of the unspoken rule of not asking Regina personal life questions.
Another lonely birthday. She thought before she placed her cup down on the granite counter. "I think it's time we all get to work. With the untimely rain we have more work to do. Edmund and Daniel if you could walk each row and check the grapes. It is almost harvest time. Graham you'll work with me today. We need to assemble barrels and check the machinery."
Not needing further instruction, the men downed the remainder of their coffees and grabbed their hats. Graham informed Regina he'd wait outside for her, before disappearing to catch up to the other men. The thump of the wooden door closing filled the now silent home. Something the brunette recognized all too well when it returned.
Moving to her cabinet she opened the first one door, with a reluctant pull. Coffee hued eyes stared at the experimental drug her doctor had prescribed. Trembling fingers plucked the container before she pulled the small, white bottle toward her face. Out of habit she read the warnings and the dosage. She had read it so many times she felt she could write it down word for word, but she did it anyway. Before pushing the top down and twisting it off. Shaking the container into her waiting palm, the brunette frowned as she popped the two tablets into her mouth. Bringing the cup to her lips, she washed down the foul taste with the remainder of her coffee.
Taking a moment to collect herself. Regina swallowed again, feeling as though the tablet was still caught in her throat. Finally feeling the medicine had taken the right course, she returned the bottle to the cabinet. Using the hair tie on her wrist, the winemaker put her hair up into a high ponytail. Making a mental note to get a hair cut, as she exited her kitchen.
Graham who had resorted to carving up a stick he found, looked up at his boss. A wide smile greeted the brunette. A scoff past her lips as Regina let her anger fuel her.
"Mr. Humbert," Graham traded his grin for a frown at the formality. "Seeing as you are newer then Edmund and Daniel I will take it upon myself to personally educate you."
The short woman maintained intense eye contact as she proceeded down the steps of her porch to the waiting brunette.
"I don't mind morning conversation, but never question anything about my life. If I wish to share key facts about my business I will do such. Not in general conversation. You are here to do a job, a job I pay you to do. Are we clear?"
"Crystal Miss Mills. I apologize for the inconvenience. I will personally tend the machines." Graham offered. He had been warned by the locals that Regina was a dangerous mystery. And until a few minutes ago he hadn't believed them. But now looking at the intimidating, his opinion had done a three-hundred and sixty degree turn.
"Very well. I will be in the barn should a problem arise."
Tipping his hat in acknowledgement the brunette skipped off, like a puppy who had been kicked.
Regina sighed. Tucking her Evil Queen persona away as she began moving toward the barn. She hadn't wanted to hurt the boy's feelings but a distance between workers and boss had to be established. Keeping her father's vineyard functioning was more important to her then temporary pleasantries.
Reveling at the soft ground mushing beneath her boots. This was what she loved. Her life had been sheltered, but even in her solace she had found a small amount of salvation.
Tanned fingers wrapped around the barns handles. She had meant to buy a lock, but after Henry had died she saw no purpose. And no one visited in fear of upsetting the 'Evil Queen' side of her. So it had been decided that leaving the barn unlocked was plausible.
Giving a forced pull of the door, it creaked open and welcomed the owner. The thick smell of animal and hay assaulted her nose, as she felt the scattered tendrils of hay crunch beneath her feet.
Moving deeper into the barn, she was prepared to hear her horse Rocinante welcome her. But instead she heard voices. Voices. The brunette thought as she stilled her movements.
Rocinante pranced nervously at the tension filling the enclosure.
"But mommy it's just Lily."
"Henry. I know what I said but this isn't the time."
"But she has to know you're sorry."
Regina was prepared to tuck tail and run. When a small boy burst forward, from the animals food storage.
"Hi."
Emma's eyes fluttered open at the sound of laughter. She hadn't meant to fall asleep. A catnap was all she had wanted, but her body had, had other ideas. Fear grated up the blonde's back as the laughter grew more boisterous. They had overslept, and because of it Emma had put them in a vulnerable position.
A relieved breath passed her lips as the sounds began to fade. Emma refused to be caught. The thought of Henry being taken from her, made bile rise in her mouth. But what scared the mother most was the thought of her son being forced to return to his father. Emma had to calm the nerves in her stomach at the idea.
Her ears perked as she listened for any other sounds, before she peeked around the post she had rested against. The movement made her wince as her fingers trailed over the fabric of her sweatshirt on her side.
Pleased that the coast was clear and that she was no longer hearing voices. Emma moved toward her son, brushing his growing bangs out of his face. Before she placed a chaste kiss to his lightly warm forehead. A cough ripped through her chest before she could cover her mouth or try to contain it. Her lungs burned. Tears stung the corners of her eyes.
"Mommy," Henry's sleep dazed question caught her attention. As she tried her best to end the rogue waves of painful coughs.
"Yea… buddy."
"Are you okay mom?"
"Of cours…" Emma didn't get the chance to finish before the sound of the barn door creaking caught her attention. Grabbing the flashlight, pack and her son. The blonde shrunk into the background. Moving away from the entrance. Crunching hay echoed in Emma's ears as she held her breath. Willing the pain in her side to disappear and her cough to not return.
Henry began to struggle against Emma's hold and the hand over his mouth. Taking a chance, his mother removed her hand, before taping on his shoulder. Demonstrating she required is undivided attention. The light from the door allowed more light into the barn. Enough for Emma to shoot her son a warning look.
But of course her baby had other ideas.
"But mommy it's just Lily." He retorted in what he believed to be a whisper.
Emma's frown deepened as the sound of crunching hay ceased. A sliver of hope greeted Emma when the crunching continued quietly. Maybe they hadn't heard Henry, or they choose to ignore it.
"Henry." Emma whisper warned. "I know what I said but this isn't the time."
Henry set his chin in a defiant manner, but Emma could've never guessed what her son would do next.
"But she has to know you're sorry," the boy demanded. Before he escaped Emma's grasp and burst into the clearing.
"Hi." The blonde heard her son greet. Attempting to mentally prepare herself for a meeting she hadn't want to occur. Henry's mother swallowed as she stepped behind her son, not wanting him to get them in more trouble.
Soft green eyes fell to a gorgeous brunette with a rigid stance. She was decorated in an open dark black, white and grey plaid shirt. With a black shirt underneath and weathered jeans as well as boots. Her hands rested on her hip in a disgusted and agitated manner, that made Emma feel she had just walked into a waiting reprimand. Her eyes were squinted in a waiting fashion.
Not receiving an answer Regina took it upon herself to speak first. "Who are you and what are you doing in my barn? Let alone on my property?" There was a bite to her voice that made Emma cringe in response.
"I am so…"
"…You must be Lily?" Henry exclaimed gleefully as he waved adamantly to the brunette. Who transformed her scowl into a look of confusion as her brows furrowed.
"Excuse me?" Venom coated the brunette's voice as she stared at the boy with a look of indifference and thinning tolerance.
Emma spotting the need to clarify shuffled her son behind her to become a buffer between the two. While Regina watched with a raised eyebrow. Crossing her arms over her chest as she waited for the dirtied woman to explain.
"I am waiting…"
"Swan."
"Am I to believe that is your real name?" The brunette retorted skeptically. Eying the attractive blonde despite her disposition being covered in dirt and grim.
"Considering you haven't called the police yet. I thought you deserved at least that much." Regina weighed the words before giving an approving nod. "It was raining…"
"…And that gave you the right to trepass?" The winemaker finished.
Emma gritted her teeth at being cut off again. She knew it wasn't wise to come onto someone's property, but she had done what she believed best for Henry. And that she would not apologize for.
"Mommy what does trespass mean?" Henry questioned. Tugging on the bottom of her dirtied sweatshirt. His brown eyes full of curiosity as his mother looked down at him with a weak smile. Pushing the intensity of the situation to the back of her mind. As she bent down to become eye level with her son. "That's not Lily is it?" His reasoning never ceased to amaze her. That her nearly seven year old baby boy could pick up on social ques.
With a shake of her head she answered his question. "I'm sorry mommy."
"Its not your fault Hen." Turning her gaze back to the brunette. "Look we didn't take anything. I'm sorry for intruding. I can give you money to compensate. Just let me take my son and leave."
Regina huffed at the proposition. "It doesn't look like your in a position to offer me anything. You appear to barely have enough for yourself."
The words stung Emma like an unseen blow. She may have not been in the best situation but Henry was well taken care of and that's what mattered to her. And despite the less then favorable circumstance the woman had no right to insult her so bluntly.
Regina nearly blanched at her words. She wasn't social. Attempts at being social had resulted in painful whispers and rumors she had been forced to endure. So hurtful tactics had become her method. Hurt them before they could hurt her. But her face remained passive despite her inner turmoil.
"Listen lady…" The blonde began. Until a violent coughing spell rendered her speechless. Eyes beginning to water as she raised a hand to cover her mouth.
"Mommy?" The little boy froze as his mother fell heavily onto the straw.
"Miss Swan?"
No response. No cough. Just silence.
Regina's blood ran cold. "Miss Swan?" Silence. "Stay with your mother I'm going to get help."
Regina willed her legs and body for once to listen to what she commanded it to do. She hadn't asked to be born with this condition. Nor had she asked to find strangers in her barn. But the universe seemed to enjoy throwing the unexpected at her. And took sick glee in watching her flounder through ever scenario.
But she pushed forward. Forcing herself to focus on the task at hand. It was clear to Regina the woman needed help. And the quicker she got it, the quicker the blonde and her son could leave.
"Graham! Graham!" Her voice carried as she crossed the field. Said worker looked up from bent position, as he squinted. Spotting his boss moving toward him at a high rate of speed.
"Miss Mills?" He questioned as the older woman closed the distance. Panting heavily as she attempted to catch her breath. "Are you okay ma'am?" The brunette asked. Wiping fresh grease from his hands on the back of his jeans. Regina tried not to grimace at the display but failed.
Finally feeling her lung capacity returning to normal, the brunette spoke concisely.
"There is a woman that needs help in my barn."
Graham stared at the brunette as though she had grown two heads.
"A woman? Do you know…"
"Mr. Humbert. As much as I would like to hold your hand and walk you through every detail I cant. So if you would simply do as I ask. It would be greatly appreciated."
The male frowned. It was the second time today he was getting reprimanded, and to be honest he didn't know the extent to Regina's patience. But he knew he didn't want to find out. Without a moment of second hesitation, the brunette took off on a long sprint.
Regina was close behind as the pair raced back across the property. Toward the barn.
Graham arrived first, pushing the door open wider. Before ducking inside. Regina choose to stand behind and monitor the situation. Though he could be irritating and sometimes immature. Out of all of her employees and including herself Graham had the friendliest disposition. His charming appearance and youth were also factors that Regina had found useful when needing to conduct business.
"Hiya fella. Who do we have here?" His voice sickeningly sweet as he aimed his question at Henry.
Regina watched as the small boy scooted protectively in front of his mother. Covering the large frame with that of his own smaller frame. Casting Graham a look of pure hatred over his shoulder. Standing in shock, the brunette stood in marvel at how quickly the child's demeanor had changed.
"It's okay fella. I just want to help your mom okay?"
"No," Henry spoke defiantly. Poking out his lips as he tightened his grip on his mother's sweater.
"Come now lad." But the brunette boy remained admant. Shaking his head in refusal. If Regina hadn't known time was a limiting factor, she might have applauded the boys stance. Seeing the need to step in Regina moved forward. Placing a soft hand to her employees lower back, silently motioning him to get behind her. As she sighed, metaphorically taking the reigns from Graham.
"Henry why won't you let us help your mother?" The winemaker inquired.
"Doctors are villains."
The answer shocked the pair of adults. Some doctors were crooked and ill-tempered, Regina had to agree. She had handled and dealt with enough with her condition. But for a child of no older then eight to say something with such malevolence and distaste it made her gain a sinking feeling.
"Mommy can't go to a hospital. They'll hurt her."
"Henry if I make a promise to not send your mommy to a hospital. And personally look after her can you let me help her?"
"Pinky promise?" He asked. Turning to Regina enough to stick out his pinky toward her.
"Pardon?" The vintner looked confused down at the child. Gazing at the slightly dusty appendage.
Seeing the need to explain, Henry began to clarify. "A pinky promise is a secret between two people. A promise that can never be broken." The enunciation on 'never' and 'broken' cemented just how much this notion meant to the child. Seeing no way out of the situation. Regina bent down toward his small body and held out her pinky to him. Warmth spread through her being as his small finger wrapped around hers. Sealing their agreement.
"Okay?"
"Okay."
"Hello?" The doctor questioned as she rubbed a tired hand over her face. Before pulling the illuminated device away from her ear, to glance at the clock. A weighted groan fell from her lips as she returned the device to her ear. It felt like she had just gotten into bed, and no sooner her phone was ringing. And she had answered it more out of habit then obligation. Not looking at the caller I.D.
"Do you do anything other then sleep?" Regina asked.
Belle groaned it was to early. Someone had apparently already activated her best friends irritation gauge.
"Oh goody… a call from an annoyed Regina Mills. I guess I can cross this off my to-do list for today."
"Come off your high-horse Aussie. What are your plans for today?"
"I had planned to sleep but based on your tone and the time this conversation is taking place. I'm just gonna assume you have other plans for me? You do know you're not my only patient correct?"
"All very true but since you have taken the rightful claim as my best friend you'll have to deal."
Belle pushed her wives hanging limbs off her torso. Listening to the brunettes groan as she turned over. Pulling the phone away from her ear, the doctor leaned over and placed a quick kiss to Ruby's temple.
"What did you call for?" The brunette questioned. Returning her phone to her ear, as she sat up on the edge of her bed. Wrapping the sheet around her torso. "And it had better be a good reason." The doctor warned.
"I found a stranger… well a woman and a boy in my barn."
"Are you kidding me? You called me this early in the morning, when a simple call to the sheriff would've been justified."
"How articulate. And I plan to but the situation is… complicated."
That peeked the doctors attention. Nothing associated with Regina Mills was ever complicated. Handled or removed were the only two options. So complicated to Belle was definitely interesting.
"Ill be there in thirty minutes."
Regina kept her promise, staying by the blonde's side. While her son sat watching cartoons in the living room. Several times the mothers breathing had changed. Drifting from raspy to deep, before prolonged and watery coughs would take over. The blonde had moved minimally, but her eyes wouldn't open. So Regina had sat in the love seat at the far corner of the room they had situated Emma and just watched over her. Taking only momentary breaks to check on the boy, her workers, and how close her best friend was.
Twenty minutes had passed before Regina surfaced in her kitchen. Pulling a refrigerated bowl of mixed fruits she had sliced yesterday from the cold confines. She sat it on the counter, before grabbing two bowls from her cabinets. Using a wooden spoon she divided out a decent portion into each bowl. Before grabbing two forks.
Retreating back to the living room. "Are you hungry sweetheart?" The brunette held up the bowl. For several counts Henry looked at the bowl before shaking his head. But Regina could see his hungry but unsure gaze. The boy was smart.
"Alright. Well can I sit with you? And I'll leave the bowl beside me just in case." The child shrugged. Before returning his gaze to the television. Taking up a criss-cross applesauce formed of sitting next to Henry, Regina sighed. Before picking up the fork and beginning to eat her fruit.
For several moments the pair of brunettes sat watching the moving characters. But the winemaker had quickly lost interest and decided upon watching the boy subtly. Occasionally he would cast a glance at the bowl beside him or the one in Regina's hand.
"I don't really like strawberries. And I'd hate for them to go to waste. Would you eat them?" She tried. Lifting the bowl toward him.
"Um okay. Thank you."
"No thank you. So do you and Miss Swan have family around here?"
Henry shook his head. "I don't know. I only know about a woman called Lily. Her and momma were friends"
Regina tried to keep her facial expressions indifferent, but she did find the boys comment interesting. Surely he was talking about another woman other then their sheriff.
"So no family?" The vintner tried to clarify.
"Do you have family? You have a big home so I guess I was wondering where they were."
Once again the older woman found herself starstruck at the question. People shared her last name but as far as family went. Regina surmised, she didn't have any.
"They don't live here."
"So you're alone too?"
The brunette knew she was alone. But hearing the words spoken so bluntly and bared before her face the way they were. Made her feel small. She was alone. And now Henry knew it too.
"Regina?" Belle called out from the front of the house.
"In the living room," the winemaker responded. But the tightening hand on her arm caught her attention. "Henry it's okay. Miss French is a good friend of mine. I pinky promised that I'd take care of your mom. And I intend to keep that promise but I need Belles help. No one is allowed in the house without my permission. So you can eat and watch cartoons okay?"
Uncertainty flashed across his soft features. Before he nodded.
"Okay."
"Hey. So I'm interested in this complicated situation." Belle began as soon as she spotted her best friend heading toward her.
"Keep your voice low. Her son is in the living room."
The doctor braced a hand against Regina's sleeve. "Since when do you care about others?"
"I don't," Regina reasoned. "But I want answers and them the hell off my property." Finality clung been the two women, as the brunette made a pointed look toward the door.
"After you your majesty."
Choosing to ignore the snide comment. The winemaker pushed the door open. And entered the room, the doctor hot on her heels.
"Oh?" Was the first word that passed the younger woman's lips as she caught her first glance at the woman. Her blonde mane was in light tangles. The green sweatshirt she wore was tattered and torn. But the black skinny jeans clung tightly to her frame. Showing off incredibly long, curvy legs. "She's pretty. Even with all of that," Belle commented. Waving her hand up and down, gesturing at the blonde's appearance.
"I wouldn't know." Regina shrugged at Belles skeptical look. "I called you here to do a job. Can you or can't you?"
"Bossy. Bossy." The doctor sneered. Pulling her thesiscope from around her neck. As she approached the bed. Pinching the base she placed the circular piece just inside of the collar on the woman's sweatshirt. Listening first to the woman's heartbeat. Then moved to her back to repeat the same action to her lungs. "Interesting."
Regina watched as her best friend removed the pieces from her ear and returned the instrument back around her neck.
Belle twisted the right upward, before sliding her hands around the resting woman's neck.
"Did she do or say anything?" The question was directed toward Regina. As the brunette continued her minimal exam.
"You mean besides trespassing?"
Blue eyes shot the vintner a warning glare.
"Sorry. No but she had a deep cough…"
"Regular or extremely congested and watery?"
"How the hell should I know? You're the doctor."
Belle returned to a standing position to glower at her patient and best friend.
"This is important. I need you to try to remember."
"Fine. Gun to my head… not regular. No congestion. Extremely watery sounding."
"This isn't good." The doctor stated. Wrapping her arms around herself like a tight cacoon. "Her temperature is rising. And her breathing is growing labored. She needs to go to a hospital Regina."
Cognac eyes filled with trepidation stared in disbelief at the other brunette. She thought the woman seemed healthy overall. Sure she was slightly dirtied, but she had taken that as a sign of exhaustion. It was clear to see the woman and her son were running from something or someone but she hadn't asked what. If she was being honest she hadn't wanted to. It had been a long time since Regina cared for someone. And a piece of her doubted she would start just because a sweet kid and his sick mother had walked into her life.
"You can't. I promised her son no hospitals."
"You're going to let a child dictate your decisions and her well being?"
A discontented scoff escaped the older woman. No one made decisions for her. But Regina had always prided herself on being a woman of her word. Even if the promise had been made to a child she barely knew.
"Of course not. Don't be ridiculous. But as my friend I'm asking you to do whatever you can. I know how much challenges mean to you. You thrive on making the impossible, possible and that's what I'm asking of you now."
The doctor looked accusingly at Regina. Her best friend always had a way of speaking that made Belle want to take action. Even if it didn't work. It had been one of the reasons she had made Regina her best friend. Despite the warnings she had received.
"Alright I'll try. But she'll need I.V fluids, medication, a thorough exam, I'll need a medical history. I suppose I can get that once she is stable." Belle rambled. Running through a mental itinerary.
"Get whatever you'll need. I'll flip the bill. If it means getting them off my property quicker."
"Regina…"
But the brunette was already gone. Belle stared down at the woman. If her theories were right. This woman was a fighter just like Regina. Perhaps fate had decided they had both fought long enough. And it was time to depend on someone else.
Emma
Pain. Searing pain. Those were the only words that Emma managed to put together. Her limbs felt heavy and when she made the mental effort to raise them she couldn't. She felt trapped and confined. Her eye lids fluttered as she made an attempt at clearing the foggy recesses of her mind. A bright over head light blinded her for several moments. Before she was able to blink enough to let her eyes adjust.
"Ah you're awake excellent. I had honestly feared the worst." An unfamiliar accented voice spoke. "You may be a bit groggy, that's expected. We had to give you a high dose of Valium and antibiotics. Nasty fluid is in your lungs."
Emma tried to focus her swimming mind. Valium. Antibotics? Fluid? Then everything came crashing back at once. Henry had all but bum rushed the property owner. And she had passed out.
Henry.
"He-Henry?" The blonde rasped out. Her throat felt like cotton had been forced down it.
"Oh the cute little fella? He is fine. We couldn't let him into the room. You had a severe infection. And a cold that was bordering pneumonia. But he's just fine."
Room? Horror echoed in the blonde's green eyes as she turned lightly to observe her surroundings. A wave of relief washed over her. She was in a room but it didn't appear to be a hospital room.
"Where am I?" The blonde gulped.
"My best friends vineyard. I think you already met Regina. She owns Naevedin Vineyards. I'm Dr. Belle French by the way. You've been out for about 72 hours. We weren't sure you'd make it honestly. But we're glad you did. I have a couple questions for you. But that can wait. There is someone who has been waiting on pins and nails."
As if knowing he was being summoned Henry barreled into the room. His brunette hair a blur as he jumped into the open area at the end of the bed. A wide smile greeted Emma as she watched the doctor retreat from the room.
"Mommy!"
"Hey kid. I missed you." Emma smiled. As she made a painful attempt at sitting up. Her back met the headboard with a soft thump. "Aren't you going to give me a hug?"
Henry looked apologetically at his mother before he shook his head.
"Regina said I shouldn't. But I can do it as much as I want when you're better."
The blonde visibly frowned. Apparently she had missed a lot in the past 72 hours. When had her baby begun to call the woman by her first name?
"I feel better now. Are you sure?" Emma questioned as she opened her arms wide in invitation for her child. "Time is expiring," a smile surfaced as she began to close the gaps.
Not needing further prodding, the boy crawled over his mother's legs into her waiting arms.
This felt right. Having her little boy in her arms. Squeezing her. Emma let Henry's warmth wash away her fears as she buried her nose in his green apple scented hair. That was new.
Pulling back, Emma took a moment to really look at her son. Gone away were the clothes they had arrived in. His hair had been combed and thoroughly cleaned. A deep frown surfaced as she started into her son's big brown eyes. What all had she missed in the last 3 days?
A knock pulled the blonde's attention away. As Belle peeked around the door, blue eyes scanned the room until they fell directly on Henry.
"You ready?"
Emma furrowed her eyebrows at the question. At her look of confusion the doctor stepped more into the room and smiled sincerely at her.
"Regina agreed to take Henry into her vineyard. And help with the harvest. So we could talk."
"Can I go mommy?"
Apprehension flashed across his mother's face. But as she looked down at the wide grin her son was sporting, she caved. It had been so long since her son had fully smiled. Often he wore a plastic smile, but apparently in her absence something had changed. Giving her nod of approval. She was surprised when her baby barreled back into her arms, planting kisses along her face.
"Thanks." He shouted with a final scramble out of her arms and off the bed. Soft emerald eyes sparkled as her child darted from the room, nearly knocking the doctor over in the process. But Belle hadn't seemed to mind. Instead she had smiled and giggled lightly.
Inaudible voices sounded outside. Emma hadn't realized she'd been watching the door until Belles smooth accent cut through her attention.
"He's okay ya'know?"
"Im not sure I understand," the blonde spoke. But the truth was she did understand. Henry was skeptical of people. And Emma hated it, she felt wholly responsible.
The brunette shot her patient a skeptical look. Before she pushed the door closed. A shaky breath escaped the doctor as she leaned back against the door. Folding her arms over her chest, turning her knowing gaze on Emma.
Emma tried to shrink away. It felt like she was in a fight and Belle had the upper hand. She was forced to wait for the next blow. But until it came she could only dance around and try to evade it from happening.
"I can't explain it personally. But your child made a connection with Regina. And despite her denying it. I know she made one with him too."
"He's a friendly kid."
Belle pinched her mouth together. "I won't doubt that. But he shows a reluctancy toward adults. But more surprisingly toward men. So why not talk to me? I want to help you but you have to let me. And I'd prefer to do this the easy way."
"Because a doctor is the last person I would trust." Emma sneered. Forcing the words through her teeth.
"Fine." Uncrossing her arms, the doctor surged forward. Advancing to the side of Emma's bed. Ignoring the angered look the blonde shot her, Belle sat. "I saw your body Miss Swan. And most of it is covered in healed scar tissue, bruises, but that cut," the brunette said pointing to Emma's covered side. "Was severely infected."
"What does this have to do with Henry?"
"Regina was the only person who got him to open up. Somehow in a matter of three days, she got a scared boy. Who apparently has had psychological abuse to open up and trust. To feel safe. You don't think that raises flags? He just recently started to allow Graham and myself to get close to him. Why won't you let us help you?"
"Because if I do. And I let my guard down." The patient looked away. Twisting her fingers around the sheet a moment before she turned back to Belle. Who sat anxiously waiting for the blonde to continue. "He'll find us… he always finds us."