CHAPTER 2
He was nervous. No, he wasn't nervous he was terrified. He hadn't been on a date . . . well in a very long time. Since, his ex-wife and that was a few years ago. Maybe, this wasn't technically a date. He and Regina were just hanging out; barbecuing, swimming and . . . God he was already thinking about how much he wanted to kiss her. He ran a hand through his hair and leaned against the counter. He had an hour to get ready. He ended up going to the store this morning to get steaks, and baked potatoes. He was also making a salad. One thing Robin knew how to do was cook and he wanted to impress Regina. He'd even bought a bottle of wine and chocolate covered cannoli. He hoped it wasn't too much. He knew she was bringing turnovers but he wanted a bloody cannoli – it looked so good. The hour past quickly and he had everything ready to go. He was slightly startled when he heard the back gate close and then he smiled when he saw Regina in the backyard. He went out to greet her "Hi, let me take that," he said. "Come inside." She followed him into the kitchen; he couldn't help but notice she was wearing a red sundress today. He wondered if her bathing suit underneath was also red. He placed the turnovers on the counter and finally took a good look at her "Thank you for these," he said.
She smiled "You are very welcome. So, what are you making?"
"Well, I'm throwing steaks on the grill, baked potatoes, salad; I bought chocolate covered cannoli. I figure I'll just have to work a little harder in the pool," he said.
She smiled "Who the hell can resist a chocolate covered cannoli?"
He shuffled on his feet and tried not to be nervous "So, do you want to swim a few laps?"
"Sure." They headed outside and Robin nearly groaned when she took off her dress – the bikini was red. He was staring and she noticed "Do, you like this one or the black better," she teased as she shot him a look.
He cleared his throat "I apologize . . ."
"It's alright. I look at you," she admitted.
"Oh . . . well I like this one much better," he said.
"Alright, I'll make a mental note," she replied. They both laughed and then dove in the water. They were quiet at first and then she swam toward him "When does Roland come home?"
"In a few weeks; it's strange not having him here. I guess I should be basking in the alone time but I can't help but feel somewhat lonely," he admitted.
"I can understand that. I miss my God Son – Henry. He lives with his mom in New York but they're planning to come in the fall for a long weekend," she explained.
"How old is Henry?"
"He's eleven," she replied.
He nodded "It's difficult being a single father sometimes but I wouldn't trade it for the world," he said.
"Roland's mother . . . what happened to her?"
Robin grimaced somewhat "She lives in England. Her priorities are . . . I have sole custody," he said softly.
"I'm so sorry I didn't mean to pry," Regina said.
"No, you didn't. It's perfectly fine." She smiled and he began to tread water in the deeper end of the pool. She joined him "I'm thinking about going to the gym in town. Is it any good?"
"Yes, actually I go there a few times a week; it's not bad. Do you like the gym?"
She laughed "No, absolutely not but I force myself to go. I like Zumba though and I heard they have classes and a pool too. Water Aerobics is actually really good for the body. I'll probably do that." she said.
He licked his lips and let out a breath "I can tell that you're active. I mean at the gym! Oh' God . . . sorry."
She laughed "It's alright I know what you meant."
"I'm not very good at this; flirting and . . . I don't know. You're beautiful," he said softly as he stared into her eyes.
"Thank you. You're doing fine by the way. So, don't worry."
"Alright, that's good to know," he said. "Anyway, if you're hungry I made a huge Caesar Salad. We could start with that?"
"That sounds delicious," she said. They got out and once they were dried off Regina put her dress back on and Robin tossed a white tank top over his head "Can I help?"
"Sure," he said. She followed him into the kitchen and he gathered everything they needed and grabbed a pitcher of lemonade iced tea out of the refrigerator "I hope you'll like this; it's one of my favorite drinks and it's non-alcoholic but I do have a bottle of wine for later on."
"You made the tea," she asked.
"Yes," he said smiling. "I like to cook."
"I can tell," she said as they headed back out to the patio. They ate their salad and chatted for several minutes. Robin talked about working at the pub and all his friends. Regina talked about her life in New York and what is was like moving to Maine. Conversation flowed easily between them and Robin couldn't help the feelings in the pit of his stomach – he liked her. He really liked her and he hoped she was already feeling the same way. They took another dip in the pool and then around four he fired up the grill and put the steaks and potatoes on to cook.
She set the table and when he offered the wine; she accepted. They sat down to eat and the conversation continued the way it had all afternoon – Robin didn't want the day to end. She helped him clean up and again; then went back into the pool. They lounged in the shallow end and he couldn't help but stare at her mouth. He jumped when he realized she'd caught him.
She smiled and blushed and he cleared his throat "I'm sorry. I keep doing that. I don't want to make you uncomfortable."
"Robin, if you want to kiss me. Maybe, you should just do it. That way we get it out of the way and we can decide if we want to keep hanging out," she said boldly.
"Oh' um . . . wow I didn't expect you to say that," he said.
She scooted closer "Normally, I wouldn't be so bold but . . ."
"No, I'm glad you are – one of us has to be." Regina leaned in and Robin tilted his head; their lips met and he slowly swiped his tongue against her mouth. She opened slightly and he thrusted it inside and against her cheek. She moaned and his hand came up to the side of her head; she kissed him faster, harder and he groaned and pulled back slowly "I'll say that I'd like to spend more time with you," he admitted.
She smiled "I agree. Now, that we've gotten that out of the way are you ready for apple turnovers?"
"Yes, and cannoli," he said as he grabbed her hand. They got out; dried off and then once again sat down to have desert at the table. Robin became braver as the minutes passed and kissed her in between bites of turnover. He cut the cannoli in half and they shared that between the two of them. When they were done eating; he pulled her into his lap and she went willingly; he wrapped his arms around her. She laid her head on his shoulder and sighed "Comfortable," he asked.
"Yes, very much so; thank you for a wonderful evening," she said. He drifted his fingers through her hair and she leaned back and kissed him again. The kiss was slow, sensual and Robin felt as if he could keep kissing her for the rest of his life. She was breathtakingly beautiful. When they parted she whispered "I should go."
She stood and he took her hand "I'll walk you out," he said. They went through the backyard and he kissed her one last time "Can I see you tomorrow?"
She wrapped her arms around his neck "I think that can be arranged." They hugged and he kissed her one more time on the lips quickly. He waited until she was safely inside and then went in as well. Something definitely was starting between them and Robin was more than ready.
Regina woke three weeks later on a hot, sticky, uncomfortable morning. She checked her AC Unit that David had brought over and replaced and it wasn't working. It was just her luck that this one would only last three weeks. She took a shower, made herself some breakfast and then looked outside – it was a beautiful morning. She couldn't help but think about the last few weeks with Robin. She hadn't felt this way about someone in a very long time – since Daniel died. She hadn't even told him about that yet; it was too soon to discuss such matters of the heart. Regina went outside and couldn't help but look next door - Robin was already in the pool swimming laps. She watched since he was there and she could. God, he was gorgeous, as he swam his muscles were prominent and even though he was far away she could sort of see how he looked drifting through the water. His kisses were enthralling, addicting and his arms were . . . she watched as he walked up the steps in the shallow end and she cleared her throat. At first he didn't notice her but she was embarrassed when his eyes met hers and he waved. She walked over to the fence and he motioned for her to come inside. She went over and he smiled "Hello gorgeous; how are you this morning?"
She smiled "I'm fine and you?"
"Just getting an early morning swim in," he said.
She nodded "I woke up sweaty because my AC unit broke again. What are the chances?"
"Oh' I'm sorry to hear that. Do you want me to look at it?"
"I'm going to have to get a new one," she said. "Don't worry about it."
"It's supposed to be very hot all day and tonight as well."
"I'll manage for a few days," she replied. He was shifting on his feet and she could tell something was up with him "What is it," she asked.
"Please don't think I'm a loon but I have central air; you can sleep in my room and I'll take the couch."
"Robin, I couldn't do that to you."
"Yes, you can but we don't have to talk about it now. You can see how you feel later," he said.
"Well, I appreciate the thought. I would like to take a swim though," she said.
He opened the gate and pulled her into his arms "You are welcome anytime – you know that. I rather like watching you swim in my pool." She hugged him and then he kissed her long and hard; lips sucking, tongues colliding and when they couldn't breathe they placed their foreheads against one another "Have I told you lately that I really like you," he whispered.
"You have and I really like you too. I think I'll go change," she said. He kissed her one more time and she turned back around and went home to change. As Regina hung out with Robin all day – yet again; she was tempted to accept his offer and stay over with him. It was sweltering. He had central air conditioning and it was hot as hades in her house. All the stores were sold out of AC units; so she'd have to wait until they were back in stock.
He'd barbecued chicken; they ate a light dinner and were sitting on the patio when it approached eight o'clock. They were sipping wine and Robin cleared his throat and smiled at her "What is it," she asked.
"Why don't you go home, get some clothes and stay with me tonight?"
She smiled "You know; I've been thinking about this all day and I've been going back and forth," she admitted.
"Oh' do tell," he said as he poured them each another glass of wine.
"Well, we've been hanging out for about three weeks now and it's been lovely."
"I agree," he said.
"I think that you are probably right that I would definitely get a better night's sleep at your place," she said.
"But . . ."
"Can we behave ourselves," she said seriously.
Robin shifted in his seat "Yes, Regina; I like you and I would never take advantage of you. Now, if you wanted to . . . then I'm not so sure I could deny you," he admitted.
"I see," she said.
"Here's the thing; if I'm hanging out with you gorgeous – there will not be anyone else. So, you can trust me," he said.
"Robin, I know. It's just been a long time for me," she admitted.
"For me as well," he said softly as he took her hand and kissed the top of her knuckles. "It's completely up to you. I will not pressure you at all."
"I think I'll go pack a bag," she said.
"Only if you're sure," he replied.
She stood and kissed him quickly "I'll be back in a few minutes." He watched as she went next door. He went inside and cleaned up a bit. Then, he headed upstairs to change into boxers and a tank top. He grabbed a few blankets, and a pillow for the couch and went down to meet her. He made up the couch and then a few minutes later; she was back and knocking on the back door.
She was carrying a small duffel bag and was dressed in shorts and a black tank top. Regina took her shoes off and left them by the door "Everything alright?"
"Yes, I was just getting everything ready," he said.
She sat on the couch "You're really going to sleep here?"
"Regina, yes I made you a promise."
"You have a king-sized bed Robin; we can sleep together. I don't want to kick you out of your bed."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, I'm positive," she replied.
He let out a breath "Alright, but only if you're sure." They went upstairs and he turned on the television for them. They got comfortable and decided to watch a movie. They sat back against the headboard for the first thirty minutes but then Regina got under the sheet and lay down. After a few minutes; Robin did the same and asked if she wanted to lay a little closer. She scooted into his arms and they watched the rest of the movie like that. He stood up to use the bathroom and then she did the same. When she came back into the bedroom he asked if she was ready for sleep and she simply nodded.
He turned off all the lights and asked if she wanted to lie in his arms again and she shuffled back over to him "Is this alright," he asked.
She laid her head on his shoulder and whispered "Yes, it's fine."
"Good," he said as he drifted his fingers through her hair. Regina couldn't remember the last time she'd felt this wonderful; relaxed and happy "Go to sleep gorgeous." She gripped his hand and then hugged him closer. She couldn't help it and rubbed her foot up and down his leg "If you keep that up – I might have to start kissing you," he teased.
She turned onto her elbow and even though it was dark she knew she was dangerously close to him "Robin, if you want to kiss me – do it. Let's see what happens."
"Regina . . ."
"Robin . . ."
"I'm trying to behave myself," he whispered as his lips got very close to her ear. She let out a breath and he bumped his nose against hers. She turned her head slightly and his mouth took hers. Regina moaned and scooted even closer to him and his hands came up on either side of her head "God, you feel so good," he said against her mouth. He ran his lips down her neck and she moaned as his fingers grazed against her breast. He pinched her nipple and she slammed her mouth harder against his. Regina kept kissing him and couldn't help but thrust her hips against his.
She stilled when she felt how hard he was inside his boxers "I'm wet," she whispered as she rotated her hips slowly. He placed his palm against her shorts and sure enough she was soaked "Robin," she whimpered as she started kissing him again. It was getting intense. Mouths sucking, teeth clashing but then after another minute or so he roughly pulled away and sat up "We can't. Bloody Hell, Regina . . . I can't." He stood from the bed and put the light on.
She sat up "What's wrong?"
He was pacing around the room and it concerned her "I really like you. In fact; I want you and . . . I'm going to sleep on the couch."
"Robin, you don't have to," she said.
"Regina, I invited you here so you'd be comfortable . . ."
"I'm comfortable with you. Just hold me and we'll go to sleep," she said softly as she held out her hand. He ran his fingers through his hair and nodded. He turned off the light and got into bed. Regina cuddled against his side and he opened his arms to her. She kissed him goodnight and said "Thank you Robin for wanting me to be comfortable."
"I care about you," he whispered.
She smiled against his chest "I can tell. I care about you also." He kissed the top of her head and closed his eyes. Despite the giant bulge in his boxers he managed to drift off to sleep with his beautiful neighbor in his arms.
Regina woke slowly and when she finally got her bearings she realized where she was – Robin's bed. He was holding her close and his lips were on the top of her head. He was breathing deeply and she couldn't help the reaction her body was having; being this close to him. It was no secret she definitely wanted him and he felt the same. But, he was right; they'd only known each other a few weeks. They should wait. She carefully scooted out of his arms and went to the bathroom. She decided to let him sleep and headed down to the kitchen. Regina wanted to do something nice for him and she was pretty good at making pancakes. He had everything she needed in the cupboard; bacon too. She got to work and put on the small radio that he kept on the counter. She hoped Robin liked pancakes.
He opened his eyes and reached for Regina but she wasn't there. Robin smelled . . . bacon. He stretched; went to the bathroom and headed downstairs. He heard his radio on and hid as he watched her cooking and dancing around his counter. God, she was beautiful. She was making pancakes; and the bacon was already done. He couldn't help watching her sway back and forth; swinging her hips and shaking that ass. He cleared his throat and decided he better make his presence known. He walked in and she smiled "Hello sleepyhead. I hope you're hungry," she said sending a wink in his direction.
He bit his lip and leaned against the counter "I'm starving and you look beautiful this morning. I could get used to you dancing in my kitchen," he teased.
She laughed "Stop flirting and sit down; it's about ready," she said.
"Yes, milady whatever you say," he replied. She had set the table outside; the food plated and the coffee already brewed. Regina joined Robin and he kissed her on the forehead "This is nice. Thank you Regina."
She sipped her coffee "It's the least I could do since you let me stay here," she said.
"You didn't have to but it is much appreciated," he said. He took a bite and moaned "Wow, so good."
"I'm glad you're enjoying," she said. "The radio says that the heat wave is going to continue for the next two days."
"I bet after that it will get cold," Robin said laughing.
"I hope not," Regina said as she stole a piece of his bacon.
They cleaned up and while she was washing the dishes he came from behind her and pulled her close "Thank you again for breakfast," he whispered as he kissed her neck.
"You already thanked me and it was my pleasure," she said softly.
He pulled back "Can we talk about last night," he said as he pulled away.
"What do you want to talk about," she said. He grabbed her hand and pulled her to the couch "Is something wrong?"
"No, not at all; I just wanted to apologize again . . ."
"Robin, you don't have to . . ."
"I want to Regina. I need you to know that I'm very attracted to you and last night I wanted . . ."
"You have nothing to apologize for and I know. In case you haven't noticed I feel the same way. I basically told you to kiss me and to see what happened. I was . . . slightly pushy," she admitted.
"I like spending time with you and I am very attracted to you and I'm not embarrassed to say that whenever I'm around you . . ." He stood and ran his hands through his hair and started laughing "I'm going to stop talking."
"Let's change the subject it's going to be very hot again tonight and tomorrow according to the news. So, I'm going to go home for a few hours and then if you're okay with it – I'd like to stay over again. But, this time; if you're feeling uncomfortable I'm making you sleep on the couch," she teased.
Robin smiled "Alright, yes I think that's a good idea."
"I'll see you later," she said as she kissed him quickly and then headed out the door. Robin let out a breath – Regina Mills was driving him crazy.
Regina didn't knock on Robin's back door until nine o'clock. She'd gone to dinner with a few of her friends and talked to them about her current situation and they'd given her their two sense; she heard them loud and clear. She was a grown ass woman and if she wanted to have sex with her neighbor who'd she'd been spending time with – then she would. She glanced through the patio door and the air left her chest; Robin was lying on the sofa reading a book. He must have just gotten out of the shower because his hair was wet and he was only wearing a black tank top and boxer shorts. He was wearing . . . reading glasses? He was beyond handsome, funny, sweet and probably the nicest man she'd ever met. God, he was a fabulous kisser. He caught her staring. He jumped slightly and motioned for her to come inside "Jesus, you scared me. Are you alright," he asked as he placed his glasses on the table.
She smiled and ran a hand through her hair "Yes, I'm sorry I'm so late. I had dinner with my friends."
"No, it's quite alright. I got your text. Did you have a nice dinner?"
"Yes . . ."
"Is something wrong gorgeous?"
"No, not at all; I'm so silly I forgot a bag and I locked the house up. I'm just so tired and I had two glasses of wine at dinner."
"Oh' well that's alright. I can give you something to sleep in," he said. "Do you want to go lay down now?"
"Yes and I want you to lay down with me," she said seriously.
"Regina . . . honey I don't know," he said.
"I've made my decision."
"Do I have a say in this," he said teasingly.
She grabbed his hand and they walked up the stairs "Not really. I mean; unless you don't want me? Then, I guess I will sleep all alone in your bed and you can go back down to the couch," she said as they entered his room.
He closed his bedroom door quickly and had her pinned against it in two seconds flat "How could you ever think I wouldn't want you? My God Regina you are the most stunning woman I've ever laid my eyes on," he said as he rubbed his nose against hers.
She smiled "Then, show me. Show me how much you want me," she whispered as her arms went around his neck. He didn't hesitate this time. Robin kissed her hard and pulled her against him. Regina moaned as his lips devoured hers. They kissed; hard, fast, tongues sucking, teeth clashing and finally she pushed him toward the bed and lifted her t-shirt over her head and tossed it to the floor. Robin did the same and she grabbed his arms and pulled him back toward her; they kissed until they couldn't breathe and Regina didn't care how crazy she looked she started stripping her clothes off.
He followed suit; it was quick and when she unstrapped her bra and dropped it to the floor he took a step back to look at her. She was breathtaking and it was no secret he was rock hard and wanting her already. Regina slipped her panties off and Robin's mouth went dry – she was standing naked in front of him. He dropped to his knees and she walked toward him. He kissed her belly and she whimpered at the feel of his tongue against her skin. He ran his hand over her ass; squeezed slightly and then swiped a finger into her core quickly and she moaned – she was soaking wet "Bloody Hell," he whispered as glanced up into her face. She was running her fingers through his hair and he decided to just go for it – he wanted to taste her. He slowly licked her belly and then moved down toward her slick folds. He groaned at the first swipe against her clit and she shuddered and gripped his hair. He kissed and sucked and Regina was practically whimpering with pleasure as he ate her. He heard her whispering "Robin, God yes. Oh' my God, that feels so good." It coaxed him to move his tongue faster but after a few seconds she stopped him and took a step back "Wait. Please; I want you inside me. I can't wait anymore." She crawled on the bed and motioned for him to join her. He pulled his boxers down and they went flying across the room. They both chuckled as Robin quickly went into the nightstand and pulled out a condom. He opened it with his teeth and pumped his cock a few times; it wasn't even necessary because he was more than ready for her. He put it on and then lay next to her on the bed. He kissed her; softly this time and she moaned into his mouth. His tongue took hers and when they were breathless once again he pulled back and stared into her eyes "Ride me," he said seriously as he ran his fingers through her hair. She bit her lip and smiled and then did as he asked. She straddled him and carefully situated herself on top; the initial contact was sensual and heavenly "Thank the Gods," he said. She laughed and then began to move "Are you alright," he asked. She nodded and began to bounce up and down. He grabbed her hips and she tossed her head back and moaned "You're so wet. Regina, you're a Goddess – my God," he said as he simply admired her as she continued to move on top of him.
A minute later; she was grabbing the headboard and moving faster "Jesus, that's it baby. Take what you want," he said. Robin swore his eyes were glazing over; she was moaning and then she began to say his name. They hadn't been at this for long but it was obvious neither of them were going to last long. He ran his hands over her breasts and pinched her nipples; she whispered obscenities that told him she obviously loved the attention. She leaned down and kissed him hard; which convinced him she was definitely into this and about ready to finish. Regina was on a mission and he was all for it. He could feel his release coming on fast and reached down and touched her clit. She shuttered and "Fuck" came out of her mouth a few times. A minute or two later; he felt her legs shake and she yelled out "I'm coming. Oh' my God, I'm coming!" Robin, watched as her eyes rolled back into her head and she moaned loudly. Her voice took him over the edge as she continued to ride out her orgasm. He spilled inside of her and gripped her hips tightly. She fell down onto his chest as he began to drift his fingers through her hair. She didn't move and he didn't want her to. She leaned up slightly and kissed him and his hands gripped the side of her head "So, fucking sexy," he said in between kisses. She placed her forehead against his and then carefully moved off him and dropped to his side. Robin pulled her against his chest and kissed the top of her head. She snuggled against him and he pulled the blanket up and over them "Sleep," he said. "You seem tired." She nodded and then Robin watched as Regina drifted off to sleep. It didn't take him long either.
