PART TWO

Whenever they had a chance at night – they talked on the phone. It was a great way to get to know one another and Regina really enjoyed their chats. A few nights he closed the store but he mostly worked days. She found out he had a reliable crew at his store and he was able to change shifts so they could go out Friday night and he would close Saturday. She was looking forward to it. She also found out Roland did in fact have a babysitter named Belle who'd been watching him since Robin's wife died. Belle had a newborn son of her own named Gideon so she was a stay at home mom but she watched Roland after school and sometimes on weekends. Regina shared her love of dance with Robin. One night she spilled her guts and he listened – he really listened. She talked about how when she was little all she wanted to do was dance but her mother looked down upon it and said she should be a doctor or lawyer but that's not what she wanted. Regina felt she was a true artist an entertainer even and that's what she dreamt of doing. But then one day she had a terrible accident with her ankle and the doctor's told her she had to give it up or she could really hurt herself. So, she taught the art of dance instead and it made her extremely happy; she loved teaching. However, sometimes when no one was around; she let loose . . . they talked about everything and anything. He was honest about his feelings toward her. He enjoyed their kiss so much; he couldn't stop thinking about it. She had giggled and admitted the same. Robin told her she was one of the most beautiful women he'd ever laid his eyes on. She was taken aback so all she could say was "Thank you. That's sweet." Henry was right; it was nice having someone around the holidays. She was always alone and immersed herself into the show but this year she found that she was giving more responsibilities to her two assistants and they were thrilled for the opportunity. Regina was enjoying herself for the first time in a long while and even her son noticed. Friday afternoon rolled around and she asked Tink and Emma if they minded if she bailed early.

Her friends insisted they could handle the rest of rehearsal and as fast as lightning she grabbed her bags and headed to her car. She wanted to go home and get ready for her date with Robin. They were coming over around five; she was ordering pizza for the boys and she still wasn't sure what to wear. Henry was already home and he insisted he could order the food if she wanted to shower and change. Robin had said he wanted to take her out to a nice restaurant and then they'd "wing it" after. She decided on a little black dress and pumps even though it was freezing. She was determined to knock his socks off. She'd lost track of time and when she heard the doorbell ring; she suddenly panicked. She heard Henry talking to them and then calling up to her "I'll be right down," she yelled. A few minutes later; the doorbell rang and she knew it was probably the pizza so she ran downstairs but Robin was already there and paying for it. She went to the kitchen and Henry was getting drinks "Please do not eat too many cookies. I don't want anyone to be sick," she said seriously as she entered the room.

"Yes, mom two cookies each and that's it. I promise. We'll eat in here. Don't worry." She heard something behind her and Robin and Roland were now in the kitchen. It was as if time stopped; he was dressed in black pants and he had paired it with a dark green sweater. He looked – delicious. That was the first word that came to mind as she ran her fingers through her hair and cleared her throat.

They were both staring at one another and then Roland stepped up and gave her a hug. The boys sat down at the kitchen island and they began to eat "Call if you need anything. We'll try not to be too late," she said.

"We'll be fine," Henry said. "Please have a nice time and don't hurry home. It's a Friday night for Pete's sake." They walked out of the kitchen and Robin helped with her coat.

They headed outside but before they could start going down the sidewalk he quickly turned her around and backed her against the front door "I need a moment," he said seriously as he slammed his mouth on hers. This . . . was a surprise. It was a completely different kiss from the one they shared a few days ago and she couldn't get enough of him. It was hard, fast, and desperate even and when his tongue coasted over hers; she let out a moan and Robin groaned into her mouth. His fingers moved down her sides and she accidently swiveled her hips. He slowed their kisses and when their mouths finally released with a pop "Bloody Hell," he whispered as he kissed her cheek.

"You can say that again," she said.

"I'm sorry. I couldn't resist," he replied.

"It's alright. But, we should go." He took her hand and they walked to his car – it was time for dinner.

Dinner was indeed fancy. They went to a restaurant on the outskirts of town called Tiana's. It was different then what Regina was used to but the setting was beautiful and the food was phenomenal. Robin drank water and Regina ordered one glass of wine. They never stopped talking. They laughed, flirted, held hands, tasted one another's entrees and it was wonderful. They weren't rushed, the music was good but finally Robin asked if she was ready and they were heading out of the restaurant; his arm draped around her shoulder and hers around his back. Robin opened the door to his car for her and she climbed in and once he started the vehicle she asked "Where to now?"

He reached for her hand and kissed the top of her fingers "I have an idea but we don't have to."

"What is it?"

"I want to show you where I live," he said softly as he ran his fingers through her hair.

"Oh' . . ."

"We don't have to Regina . . ."

"No, I want to," she replied.

"You're sure? I know it's a lot to ask and we haven't known each other that long."

"I'm sure. Let's go." He leaned over and kissed her mouth quickly and put the car in drive.

He held her hand the whole time while she looked out the window "The lights are so pretty this time of year. Roland loves looking at them. The other night we drove around for quite a while."

She smiled "I love it too. Henry is getting older but I think he still appreciates the holiday and everything that goes with it." A few minutes later; they turned down a dead-end street and she shifted in her seat "You live in the woods?"

"Yes, I had a cabin built out here after my wife died."

"I've never been out here," she admitted.

"I think you'll like it," he said as they pulled up to the small log cabin. The outside light was on and she could see a wraparound porch with a swing. They started up the small set of stairs and Robin unlocked the door "I've never brought anyone here."

"Never," she asked somewhat shocked.

"No, just my friends but never a woman," he said softly.

"Robin, are you sure about this?"

"Yes," he replied as he opened the door "After you," he motioned. He turned the lights on and she was immediately taken aback at how amazing the main living space was. It was huge. A large leather sectional sofa sat to one side, there was a flat screen television hanging above a beautiful fireplace and their Christmas tree was tucked in the far corner of the room. She was impressed. She took her shoes off and put her purse on the couch "It's just two bedrooms and one bath but it's plenty for Roland and I. Here I'll show you," he said. He grabbed her hand and led her down the hallway to the left and gave her a tour of that side of the house. Then, they went back to the living room and she couldn't help but gaze in wonder at their tree "Would you like a drink? I have wine."

"Yes, please that would be lovely."

"I'll be right back," he said. She nodded and began to walk around the room; she admired the tree and he had several pictures hanging on the wall. They were of mostly Robin and Roland but there were a few with some other people who must be their friends. He came back in a few minutes later carrying two glasses. He was drinking water and he handed her a glass of red wine.

They sat down on the sofa "Robin, this is beautiful."

"Thank you. I needed a special place for Roland and me."

"It's lovely," she said. He started talking about the house and as the conversation continued; apparently it was his turn to spill his guts: his wife Marion died giving birth to Roland. Regina was shocked. She grabbed the blanket off the back of the couch and placed it over her lap as she listened to him tell the story. When he finished; he was wiping his face and she gripped his hand. There was an awkward silence for a bit and then he asked if she wanted another glass of wine. She was unsure but replied in the affirmative since he would be driving her home. He went to the kitchen but was back quickly "Are you alright," she asked.

"Yes, you're very easy to talk to," he said softly. "It feels nice to open up to someone after all this time. Are you warm enough?"

"Yes," she said as she snuggled a little bit closer to him "Is this okay?"

"Of course," he replied as he placed an arm around her shoulder.

"It's still early."

"It's about nine; I told Henry I'd have you home no later than eleven."

"Did you?"

"Yes."

"We have a whole two hours" she said lifting her eyebrows and smiling at him.

He laughed "Don't tease."

"Sorry," she said chuckling.

"I want you to be comfortable. So, we'll do whatever you want."

"I like the sound of that."

He faced her and she shifted even closer to him "Have I told you how gorgeous you look tonight?"

"No, but thank you," she said as she rubbed her nose against his. She was giving him permission and he took the bait. Robin kissed her slowly and now there was barely any space in between their bodies. Their kisses escalated quickly and they didn't stop. Occasionally, they would come up for air and he would kiss the side of her face and try to move down to her neck but she would start the process all over again and move him back toward her lips. Tongues, teeth, mouths, fingers teasing and their bodies pressing; she was losing her mind. This man – this wonderful sexy man was kissing, touching and whispering in her ear and Regina Mills was falling fast. She clenched her thighs together; trying desperately to ignore the wetness between her legs but as the minutes passed it was becoming difficult.

He pulled back slightly and they were breathing heavily "God, I want you so much but I know we can't," he said.

She nodded "Maybe, you should take me home?"

"I will do whatever you want Regina," he whispered.

"I will not deny that this feels . . . so good," she said breathlessly.

She wrapped her arms around his neck and he kissed her forehead "Sit on my lap," he said as he placed his hands on either side of her waist; he tugged her gently.

"This could be the start of something very dangerous," she whispered as she carefully shifted her body and straddled his lap. Her dress rode up slightly and Robin wrapped his hands around her "How about we make a rule," she suggested as she licked and then sucked on his pulse point.

"I'm listening or at least I'm trying to," he said laughing.

She sat back "No clothes come off," she said seriously.

"Deal but that doesn't mean . . . I can't get you off? Does it," he asked somewhat shyly.

"Um . . ."

"I can convince you. I want you to feel good," he teased as he leaned in and kissed her again. Regina let him; his tongue danced with hers and she ran her fingers through his hair as his hands caressed and squeezed her ass through her dress. She rocked her hips and he pulled away and kissed her neck; she tossed her head back and closed her eyes as he licked and sucked on her skin. She roughly pulled his mouth back to hers and couldn't help but start to ride him. Robin chuckled against her mouth "Wait . . . let me," he said as he slowly placed his hand under her dress "Tell me if you want me to stop. Alright," he said seriously. She nodded and kissed him as his fingers drifted against her underwear. She was thankful she wore decent ones even though he wasn't going to see . . . oh; he shifted her higher onto his lap and her legs were now exposed. She released his mouth and looked down at him "Alright," he asked as he finally moved the material aside and placed a finger inside her. She nodded and bit her lip and he began to touch her "Oh' my God; you're wet," he whispered as he started kissing her neck again. Her breathing was becoming rapid and he pulled her closer to his chest "So gorgeous," he said as he continued to caress and tease her. He nipped on her bottom lip and she actually whimpered as he stroked her clit. She wiggled her hips and began to ride his hand "That's it. I want to please you Regina." She gripped his hair and he groaned as she slammed her mouth on his again; now she rocking against him so hard she could feel him through her dress. He was definitely enjoying this because he was started to breathe heavily and he was rock hard underneath her. She was going to come on top of this man with his hand up her dress and she didn't give a shit. She needed this more than anything right now and she was going to take it.

He began moving his finger in and out at a much faster pace and she cried out "Robin. Oh' my God. Robin. I'm going to . . ." She gripped his shoulders and moaned; she couldn't help but squeeze her thighs together as she came. She could feel the liquid dripping down her legs and she knew it probably spilled all over him. Regina was still rocking her hips as Robin pulled his finger out of her and began to kiss her again. Slowly, sweetly his tongue moved over hers and she moaned as his fingers caressed the side of her face and then glided through her hair. She pulled back and placed her forehead against his as she attempted to catch her breath. Robin kissed her cheek "Wow," she whispered.

He chuckled "You're exquisite," he said as he pecked her mouth one more time. She sat back and he glanced into her face "Are you alright?"

She smiled "Yes that was . . ."

"Sexy," he said as he pulled her in for a hug. They embraced for a minute or two and then she carefully slid off his lap. She glanced down and not only was he hard but there was definitely a wet mess on his pants "It's alright. I'll go change. We'll tell the boys there was an accident at dinner or something. They probably won't even notice. Don't worry," he said as he kissed her quickly and then went to his room. Regina slid to the edge of the sofa and placed her head in her hands. She needed a moment to catch her breath. This was all so sudden and overwhelming. She could feel the sticky mess between her thighs. She really needed to clean up but could not deny how good she felt. It was intense and emotional. Regina caught her breath and just in time because Robin came out dressed in jeans and a different shirt "There are wipes in the bathroom if you'd like to clean up. Take your time," he said. She did exactly that and sure enough everything she needed was at her disposal in his bathroom. It took her a few moments but once she cleaned up and was comfortable she headed back out to the living room and Robin was sitting on the sofa and two bottles of water were on the small end table. He handed one to her and she drank down half the contents "Are you alright?"

"Robin, stop asking me that. Yes, I'm fine. Are you alright," she asked.

He chuckled "Yes, you are extraordinary Regina and so . . . so beautiful." She bit her lip and placed a strand of hair behind her ear. He kissed her forehead and informed her they should be going. They finished their water; she put on her shoes and coat and part of her couldn't help but be sad this wonderful night was coming to an end. Once in the car; she shifted as close as she could to him and he held her hand while she placed her head on his shoulder. When they arrived at her house it was exactly eleven o'clock. He turned off the engine and pulled her against him for one last quick make out session. She giggled as they kissed for what seemed like a long time; when in reality it had only been ten minutes. Finally, Robin released her mouth "My Company Christmas Party is this Wednesday night. Will you come? Everyone brings their families. I'm having it catered at the store. You're welcome to bring Henry. I'm sure he'd enjoy a free meal and maybe he and Roland can play a few video games? There will be a lot of people but . . . will you be my date?"

She smiled "What time should we be there?"

"Seven o'clock," he said as he kissed the top of her hand. "You should also know there is an ugly sweater competition."

"Sounds fun," she said. He kissed her one last time and they got out of the car and headed inside her house. Both boys were asleep on the sofa and Regina turned the light on "We're home," she said quietly.

They stirred and Henry rolled his neck "What time is it?"

"Sorry, we were a little late. It's eleven fifteen," Robin said.

"It's alright. Did you have a nice time?" They both nodded and Henry replied "Good. Alright then; I'm heading up to bed. See ya Roland." They bumped fists and Roland yawned and Regina helped him with his hat and coat. He was dead on his feet. She couldn't help but notice out of the corner of her eye that Robin handed Henry a few bills. He was trying to be discreet but she did see it. Granted, he was sly because it was fast. Apparently, he was paying Henry for babysitting? This, she hadn't known about.

Once Roland was dressed; Robin kissed her quickly on the mouth "I'll call you tomorrow?"

"Yes, thank you again for dinner and . . ."

He smiled "Thank you. Goodnight Regina."

"Goodnight Robin." She watched them out the window until they drove off and then she made sure the house was locked up tight and the lights were out. She headed upstairs and Henry's light was still on in his room. She knocked on the door and then opened it "Henry, did Robin pay you for watching Roland?"

Henry was already getting into bed "Yes, he gave me twenty bucks. He said he knows Roland is younger than me and can get over excited and what not so he wanted to pay me. Don't get mad at him."

"I'm not mad. I just didn't know. When did he decide this?"

"Tonight, when he got here," Henry said.

"Oh' alright then. Did you two have a good time?"

"Yeah, we watched a few movies and then Roland fell asleep so I was texting with Violet. Did you?"

She couldn't help the blush that crept up and over her cheeks "Yes, he took me to a really fancy restaurant. It was beautiful. He's invited us to his Company Christmas Party Wednesday night. Free food and he says he's going to have a bunch of video game consoles hooked up. You don't have to come but you're invited."

"Sounds good; I'll come." She sat on the edge of his bed and he let out a breath "What is it mom?"

"It's just . . . is Violet your girlfriend?"

"I don't know yet. I'm working on it. Is Robin your boyfriend," he teased.

She laughed "Let's not rush things. But, I do like him – a lot."

"You deserve to be happy. Just so you know; I like him. It's about time you met someone nice." She didn't care that he was fourteen; she hugged him and then kissed his cheek.

He scooted down under the covers and she kissed his forehead "Thank you. I love you Henry. Goodnight and thank you for babysitting."

"Goodnight mom. And you're welcome." She closed the light and headed to her bedroom. She really wanted to take a shower but she was exhausted. So, she slipped out of her dress, got into bed and for the first time in a long while fell asleep without a care in the world.

The Christmas season was in full swing. The holiday was only fifteen days away and Regina was starting to feel overwhelmed. Yes, she'd done all her Christmas shopping but nothing was wrapped yet. Tuesday night's rehearsal didn't end until eight o'clock and she had originally planned to wrap. Once she arrived home; Henry helped her make something quick for dinner and then he agreed to help her with the presents for over an hour. She was thrilled that she'd gotten so much done but mother and son were exhausted after that and Regina never saw Robin's text message until the next morning. It was a simple "hello" to see if she was awake and when she hadn't responded he's just sent one more saying "See you tomorrow. XO." Wednesday she had rehearsal for the pageant almost all day. They started at nine in the morning and didn't finish until four thirty. She raced home to shower and change before Robin's party but despite her efforts they were half an hour late leaving the house. She had almost forgotten about the fact that it was an "Ugly Sweater" affair and at the last minute she'd somehow managed to coerce Emma into going home during rehearsal and getting her one to borrow. Apparently, her friend had several because Regina was able to choose between reindeer and gingerbread man. She went with the latter. The sweater was black and white; had a huge gingerbread cookie on the front but one of its legs was broken. On the top it read "Oh Snap!" Thankfully, it was cute and not ugly. She wore it with black leggings, boots and her long leather coat. She was actually very satisfied with the outfit. Henry was dressed simply in jeans, boots and a plain red Christmas Sweater. She told him he was boring and he shrugged and said "You look good. Let's go. We're late." It wasn't a long drive to the party and once they arrived she was shocked as to how many cars were in the lot. Once inside; she was surprised to find there was a huge area in the center of the store that was set up with tables, chairs and lots of food. Henry took their coats and placed them on the back of two chairs and her eyes scanned the room.

She didn't see Robin but his son ran straight up to them and pulled Henry over to the table; explaining he was waiting for him to eat. Finally, Regina spotted Robin talking to someone and they made eye contact. He excused himself and hurried over to her "I'm sorry. Rehearsal ran late," she explained.

He kissed her quickly on the mouth "No need to apologize. I'm glad you're here," he said.

"Roland already found Henry," she said.

"Are you hungry? There's plenty and I actually waited. I wanted to eat with you," he admitted.

"To be honest; I haven't eaten much today. It was super busy." He led her to the tables with the food and her stomach growled as her eyes coasted over the selection; a full wedge, pasta and Caesar salad, sausage and peppers, roasted vegetables, bread and butter, soda, tea and water. There was more but she decided on a little bit of everything and then she and Robin took a seat at the end of one of the tables "This is amazing. You've done a wonderful job," she said.

He smiled "Thank you. I like to treat my employees once in a while. So, you had a busy day," he asked as he began to eat. They chatted and Regina admitted that she was feeling overwhelmed "There is much progress since we started but I think everyone is getting tired. I might have to cancel one day so that the dancers and crew can rest."

"Is that such a bad thing," he asked.

She shrugged "Not really and that gives me a chance to rest also. My two assistants could use a break. This is the first year I've given them more responsibility and I think they are getting overwhelmed. What about you? Did you really work twelve hours yesterday? I saw that on Facebook."

He smiled "Yes, and I did notice that you added me." He took a sip of water and then replied "My assistant was feeling under the weather and I decided he better take a break. So, I worked all day. It was okay though. Belle took care of Roland after school and he actually slept at her house and she got him up and ready today. I slept like a log last night."

"I didn't see your text until this morning," she admitted.

"I figured." Just then a few people came over to thank Robin for the party and he introduced Regina as his "date." Then, when they were finished eating; she checked on Henry and Roland while he met with some of the families. They were already playing video games so she headed back over to hang out with Robin. She was startled to see that a beautiful, tall woman with dark hair was hugging him close; he stepped back and Regina could tell he was uncomfortable.

She waltzed up confidently and reached for Robin's hand "Sorry I was just checking on the kids."

"Oh' there you are love; Cru this is Regina. The woman I was telling you about."

The woman smiled and took Regina's hand "Oh' nice to meet you darling. I had no idea this handsome drink of water was dating someone now. I've been trying to get my claws into him for quite some time now," she teased. There was an awkward silence "I'm kidding. Of course; Robin knows what I'm really after is his beautiful store."

He shook his head "I'm not selling. I've told you this a million times and I never will," he said seriously.

"Darling, why can't you be reasonable. He loves to play hard to get," Cru said as she winked at Regina.

She could tell Robin was getting upset; as he took a step back "I won't say it again. I hope you enjoy the party Cru. But, I'm not selling. C'mon Regina there a few people I want you to meet," he said as he took her hand and pulled her away from the horrid woman only known as Cru.

Regina wrapped an arm around the middle of his back as they walked "Are you alright?"

"I need a break. Will you come upstairs with me," he asked.

"Of course," she said. Once they arrived in his office she closed the door and he sat on the sofa. Regina got him a bottle of water out of his mini fridge and sat beside him "She was . . . interesting."

"Cruella and yes that's her actual name; she's been after my company for years and wants to make it a franchise. But that's never going to happen. Thank you for coming to my rescue."

Regina placed an arm around his shoulder "You are very welcome."

He rubbed his nose against hers "I didn't really get a proper hello. May I have one," he asked smiling. She laughed and then leaned in for a kiss. As their mouths met his right hand reached up and grabbed the side of her head. She pulled him closer and her fingers dug into his shoulders; he bit her bottom lip by mistake but apparently she didn't mind because several moans emitted from the back of her throat. Robin released her mouth and rubbed her nose again "You look incredible tonight."

She laughed "The sweater?"

"It's adorable."

"I'll admit I had to borrow it from my friend. I almost completely forgot."

"It's alright. I like it. I like a lot of things about you Regina." She leaned in to kiss him again but then someone knocked on his door. They jumped apart and stood and Robin yelled for whomever it was to come in "Leroy, anything wrong?"

His Stock Crew Supervisor was lingering in the door "No, boss but it's time for the managers to judge the ugly sweater contest. I was told to come up and get you," he explained.

"We'll be down in a minute. Leroy this is . . ."

"Regina," Leroy said as he took a few steps and shook her hand "No wonder the boss is smitten. She's pretty," he said winking at Robin.

She laughed "It's nice to meet you."

"Go," Robin said somewhat embarrassed and Leroy left his office "Jesus," he said as he ran a hand through his hair.

Regina wrapped her arms around his neck "So . . . smitten are you Mr. Locksley?"

He pulled her close "Very much so," he admitted as he glanced into her face.

She cleared her throat "We should go downstairs. Everyone is waiting."

He pecked her lips and then took her hand "You're right." Once they joined everyone he motioned for Leroy to make the announcement for everyone to gather around for the results of the ugly sweater competition.

Regina leaned in close to his ear "Should I go join Henry?"

"Will you stand here with me," he asked.

"Sure," she replied smiling. Leroy announced the third place winner who was a young cashier named Rachel who had a picture of a reindeer on the front of her sweater and light up antlers. She squealed as Robin handed her a gift card and then she stood to the side. The second place winner was a stock crew member named Peter who had a sweater filled with all different symbols of Christmas sprawled all over it; trees, packages, reindeer and a huge Santa Clause face in the center.

Robin handed his associate a gift card and said "That's pretty ugly. Good job Pete." The kid laughed and thanked him and stood next to Rachel. The first place winner was announced and it was the payroll manager's assistant and her name was Ashley. Her sweater had lights on the front and back that lit up but she was also wearing a tree Christmas hat as well. She'd obviously made her sweater and the effort showed. Everyone was clapping as she made her way up to Robin and he handed her not only a gift card but a giant gift basket with goodies as well "Well done Ash. I can tell you made that," he said.

She smiled "I did. Thank you, Robin," she replied as she stood next to Rachel and Peter.

Robin cleared his throat "Thank you everyone for always working so hard. This is our busiest time of year and you've all done wonderful. So, please enjoy the rest of the party and Merry Christmas!" The crowd yelled "Merry Christmas" back and everyone started mingling again.

Roland and Henry suddenly joined them "Good job Papa."

"Thank you. Are you two alright? Henry?"

"Yea we're fine. Mom, do we still have time? There's a new PS4 game I'd like to try," he said.

She smiled "Yes, go ahead. But, only for a little while longer."

They ran off and Robin gripped her hand "Good thing Santa is bringing Henry a Playstation," he teased.

She laughed "Yes, good thing. How did you manage to get so many in stock," she asked.

"Oh' I don't reveal my secrets milady," he replied as he kissed the top of her hand.

"You're a tease," she said quietly into his ear.

"You've no idea," he replied back. He mingled with his associates and Regina didn't mind that he held her hand and walked her around. A short while later; the dinner was cleaned up and desert was served. She grabbed a cookie or two and then miraculously their sons showed up again. There were many delicious offerings to choose from and she couldn't help but eye a slice of chocolate cheesecake. There was no way she was eating one by herself but Robin must have noticed because he grabbed a slice and two forks and asked if she wanted to share. The boys scarfed down a slice of cake each and then ran back over to play. When people started leaving; Robin was the perfect host and then finally the catering service began to clean up as well. Regina knew it was time to go and she couldn't suppress the yawn that came over her. Robin was still beside her and he rubbed her back "Tired?"

"Yes, exhausted. I have rehearsal at nine but I'm thinking of taking a half day and giving everyone off on Friday." Regina called for Henry and he motioned he would be there in a minute and Robin helped her put on her coat "What's your schedule like Friday," she asked.

"Closing and then opening Saturday; but maybe we can meet for lunch before I come to work," he suggested.

"I'd like that," she said. Henry and Roland ran over and everyone said their goodbyes. With one last quick kiss; Regina and her son were walking out and Robin watched them. She turned one final time to wave and he bit his lip and raised his hand. She winked at him and put her arm around Henry's shoulders.

Leroy came up to stand next to him and Robin sighed "What is it?"

"I've been working for you . . . well for a long time boss. Never have you brought a date to this party."

"Yes, well times change."

"She's nice and a looker . . ."

"LEROY . . ."

"Okay, sorry but it's true. Is she your girlfriend," he teased.

Robin shifted from foot to foot nervously "Technically, I haven't asked her."

"What are you waiting for?"

"I don't know. We just started seeing each other recently. Maybe, the perfect moment," Robin said unsurely.

"Don't wait boss. Tell her how you feel. Let's just say everyone can tell you two are hot for each other."

"Jesus. Are you done," Robin asked as he glared at his friend.

Leroy laughed "Yeah. Merry Christmas boss and thanks for the party."

Robin clapped him on the back "Merry Christmas. Now get home safe and I'll see you tomorrow." Roland ran up and asked if they were leaving and Robin said they'd go soon so his son ran off to play. Robin needed a minute. Now, Leroy had him thinking; when should he ask Regina to be his girlfriend? Was there the perfect moment? He'd just have to wait and see how everything played out. But, Leroy was right about one thing; they were definitely hot for one another.

Thursday Regina let everyone leave Rehearsal at two o'clock. It was quiet and she had the whole place to herself. She was itching to dance and she'd been waiting for the right moment. Today was the day. One of her favorite Christmas songs was by the Tran-Syberian Orchestra – Carol of the Bells. She stretched her body very carefully and drank down half a bottle of water. She wrapped her feet and ankles and when she felt she was completely ready she pushed play on her C.D Player. The ballet dance to this song was her absolute favorite.

It started slow and she used those moments to get her body ready. She could feel the stretches in her calves and her feet and it felt fine. She could tell her spins were right on tempo. She loved the music so much and when the first part ended she prepared for the faster bit. She smiled and moved right into it. Her crescendo's and leg lifts were perfect and her spins were exhilarating. The bit with a little more "rock" feel started and she grew excited. She could see the fluidity in her arms. She felt powerful and strong - she loved it. It wasn't every day she got to do this. She only let herself feel this once in a while. She couldn't chance an injury again. She sensed something or rather someone out of the corner of her eye but she ignored them and kept moving. Regina could feel the sweat pouring down her back and she knew she was growing tired but she was determined to finish the song. She was proud of her spins mostly and at one point she turned and realized the person who had moved into her studio was Robin. At first she was nervous but then the music slowed signaling it was almost the end of the song and she took her time. She really forced her body to move with the tempo and then the ending drew near and the music sped up once again. With a few final spins and leg lifts; the song drew to a close and she bowed for the end. She stood up slowly and then walked over to her C.D player and turned it off. She grabbed her towel, wiped her chest and then downed the rest of her water. He wasn't moving. It was as if he wasn't sure what he should do. She smiled at him "Well, are you coming over here? Or are you just going to stand there all day," she asked.

He walked toward her and finally said "I'm sorry. I was just stopping in to see if you wanted to grab a coffee. I'm on a break," he explained. She dropped to the floor and checked her feet. They seemed alright and she began to unwrap the tape that secured them. He looked down and said "That was unbelievable."

"Thank you," she said softly.

"I didn't mean to intrude but once I saw you I couldn't bring myself to leave," he admitted.

"It's alright. I've been dying to dance like that for days. It's my favorite Christmas song. I'm not supposed to let myself go often but I couldn't resist."

"I can't help but feel I shouldn't have watched . . ."

"If I didn't want you to see I would have stopped when I noticed you," she said softly. She finally glanced into his eyes "Well, are you going to kiss me hello at least," she teased. He laughed and then grabbed the side of her face and kissed her until they couldn't breathe "Sorry, I'm sweaty."

"I don't care," he said as he placed his forehead against hers. "I'm honored you didn't stop," he whispered as he rubbed his nose against hers.

She cleared her throat and took a step back "So, I believe you mentioned coffee?"

"Yes, would you like to go have one with me?"

"I would. Let me gather my things and then we can go," she said as she reached down and put on her sweatshirt. "I gave everyone tomorrow off; Henry and I are finally going to get our tree. So, tonight I'm getting my decorations from the attic," she explained.

"Oh' that sounds nice. I was wondering when we didn't see a tree at your house," he said as he grabbed her bag off the floor. She gave him a look "I want to carry it for you."

"Thank you. Yes, well usually I'm much more organized but I've been distracted as of late," she said teasingly.

He laughed "You are too much Miss. Mills."

"I try." They drove in separate cars to get coffee and they spent an hour in the shop; talking, laughing and flirting with one another. He was annoyed because he had to go back to work. Once they were outside they kissed goodbye; she finally had to push him away because he kept saying over and over again he didn't want to go. With one final kiss; they got into their cars and headed in their perspective directions. Robin couldn't stop thinking about Regina. She was dancing through his head all night; she had stolen his heart and he wondered if maybe it was time to have a serious conversation with her.