Disclaimer: Nope, I still don't own Once Upon A Time.

Prompt: "I think I'm in love."

Summary: The fastest way to Emma's heart is through her stomach, a lesson Regina is quickly learning.

Food For Thought

"Omigod, this is amazing!" Emma professed around a mouthful of apple-cinnamon tart.

"I'm glad you like it, dear," Regina smirked at the blonde, her eyes automatically snapping to Emma's mouth as the younger woman licked her fingers clean. She allowed herself a momentary fantasy over finishing the job herself before returning her focus to her guest.

"Like it?" Emma practically moaned. "I think I'm in love."

Regina's eyes widened at the words and she had to turn away so Emma wouldn't see the effect her offhand comment had. If only...

"Seriously, Regina, this is better than Granny's. But don't tell her I said that."

"Your secret is safe with me." Regina laughed nervously as she picked up a pan and started scrubbing with unnecessary force. Yes, she had a dishwasher, and magic for that matter, but right now she needed the distraction.

"Hey, you okay?" Emma's voice now held more than a little concern and it made Regina smile in spite of herself.

"Yes, dear, I'm fine." she answered as she continued to scrub.

"Are you sure because you seem angry. Either that pan did something to annoy you or I did and, let's face it, it's usually me."

Regina took a deep breath as she set aside the now pristine object, taking a moment before turning back to face Emma.

"You didn't do anything wrong, Emma. I just have something on my mind." Regina leant on the counter, giving the blonde a reassuring smile.

"Tell me, maybe I can help."

Regina let out a humourless laugh at the absurdity of the moment. She wanted nothing more than to tell Emma how she felt but feared it would ruin the friendship they'd worked so hard to build. No, she'd rather have the other woman as a friend than risk losing her entirely.

"Perhaps another time." the brunette said with a sad smile.

"Regina," Emma caught her hand and looked straight into her eyes. "You know you can tell me anything, right?"

"I do," she responded, squeezing the blonde's hand before pulling away. "I just need some time to think about this, okay?"

"Sure, whenever you're ready. I'm not going anywhere."

Regina stared into fierce green eyes, understanding the truth in Emma's words. Intellectually, she knew the younger woman would never desert her. But in her heart? It was still a little bruised but one day she knew she'd find the courage to take that leap.

The End