CHAPTER TWO

Regina got to the bookstore at one. She wanted to finish grading the homework sheets from a few days ago and figured she better get it done before Robin showed up. She sat with her back facing the door on purpose because she didn't want to keep looking for him. At around ten to two; she glanced down at her phone to check her Facebook page and realized the time. She put her phone away and tried to concentrate but the fact of the matter was - she was nervous. She sipped her coffee and then ran a hand through her hair. She was startled by his voice "Hi," he said as he sat in the chair across from her.

She smiled "Hello. What time is it? I've lost track," she said hoping he didn't notice she wasn't being completely honest.

"It's close to two. How are you today?"

"I'm fine and you?"

He smiled "I'm good. You're grading?"

"Yes, I'm almost finished."

"I'll get a coffee. Do you need anything?"

"I'm fine. Thank you," she said. He nodded and got on line for his drink. She finished the sheet she was working on and then went to the last one – Roland Hood. She shook her head and laughed and proceeded to grade his assignment. Not too bad; it was obvious he'd done the reading. Regina put her papers away and finally sat back to try and relax. A few minutes later; Robin was joining her again "I'm all set," she said.

"Oh' good. I don't want to interrupt," he said.

"No, it was just homework assignments from the other night. I'm finished."

"You'll be happy to hear that Roland was reading last night," Robin said.

Regina smiled "I can tell he always does the reading. That's good. Did you talk to him?"

"Yes, he thinks you're going to give a pop quiz," he said. "I think that's why he was reading for so long."

"Oh' no what I meant was did you talk to him about . . ."

"Oh' you mean about us – yes sort of."

She sat forward "Really? Do tell," she said. He told her the story and she let out a breath "I'm concerned if you and I start to spend time together it will affect Roland at school. I'm just thinking other students may tease him or think he's getting special treatment," she said.

"I thought of that last night," Robin said as he sipped his coffee.

"Did you?"

"Yes," he admitted.

She sat back and sighed "I care about my students. So, this can't happen. My main concern is Roland." Robin nodded and she couldn't help but think he looked completely torn over this. To be honest; she was too. She was definitely attracted to him and it was obvious he was to her as well. She watched as he reached over and took her hand and then brought it up to his lips. He released her fingers and she sighed "What do you think Roland would tell us to do?"

"Well, he seemed open to all this but I really don't know."

"We should take this very slowly," she suggested.

"I agree. We could be friends," he said.

She smiled "I'd like that. I don't have many male friends with the exception of a few of my girlfriends significant others."

"Well, then that's settled and as your friend I'd like to give you my number. In case you ever feel the need to get a man's point of view on things," he said teasingly.

Regina laughed "Hand me your phone please." They exchanged numbers and chatted for another hour and a half. They shared a banana nut muffin and each had another cup of coffee. Robin loved getting to know her and she seemed open to them having this . . . friendship. He couldn't help grabbing her hand occasionally and when they left the bookstore and headed to the parking lot she actually hugged him "I'm glad we talked. I meant what I said – I care about my students and I don't want this to affect Roland."

"I know Regina and I appreciate that – trust me. May I call you," he asked.

She smiled "Yes, and I do text as well. It might be a good way to get to know one another better," she suggested. After talking for a few more minutes; they finally parted and Robin couldn't help but feel somewhat upset. He was grateful to have a friendship with Regina but he was very attracted to her physically and it would be difficult for him to hide his feelings. He would do his best . . . for his son because after all his number one priority was being a good father to Roland.

She ended up texting him first. Sunday night after she made herself dinner; she was sitting in front of the television bored out of her mind. There was nothing on and she'd caught up on all the shows she'd saved on her DVR. They went back and forth a few times and then he asked if he could call her before bed. Regina agreed and proceeded to get changed and waited for him to call. They talked for over an hour and when she yawned he finally decided they'd better hang up. During the week they'd sent a few messages back and forth a few times; just friendly "getting to know you" conversation starters and what not – it was innocent. Friday night; she asked if he was working on Saturday and he was. She was somewhat disappointed because she wanted to see him again. She didn't answer right away and then a few minutes later – the phone rang and it was Robin "Hi," she said.

"Hi, I thought it might be easier to talk. I just got into bed," he said.

"I was just reading in between messages," she admitted.

"Ah' so . . . do you want me to let you go?"

"No, it's fine."

"Alright if you're sure. So, I have to work tomorrow – a double actually. It's going to be a very long day."

"Well, you were off last Saturday," she said.

"True but I'd like to see you again," he admitted.

"Me too," she said. "How's Roland? Has he said anything at all?"

"No, I told him we're friends and leaving it at that. He gave me a look as if to say okay Pop. I'm not sure he believes me."

She laughed "I keep meaning to ask . . . Pop?"

Robin chuckled "Growing up he called me papa. So, as he got older . . . Pop stuck."

"It's cute. I like it," she said.

"Yeah' it's funny I suppose. He's definitely getting older. It makes me nervous. Listen, I was thinking do you want to meet Sunday at the diner for lunch? Roland says he has a ton of studying to do so I can sneak out of the house for a little while," he said.

She pondered it for a moment "I don't see why not?"

"Okay, that's great. I'm looking forward to it," he said.

She yawned "I'm sorry. I probably should turn in."

"Alright, I'll text you regarding Sunday?"

"Yes, definitely," she said. They hung up and Regina wondered how long they'd be able to pull of this "friends" charade because as each day passed it was getting more and more difficult. She wondered if Robin felt the same way.

For three weeks; they'd talked on the phone, sent text messages and met for coffee. They flirted, held hands, and complimented each other. But they were friends and for Robin it was pure and utter torture. He wanted more. He couldn't stop thinking about kissing her; holding her and it was making him crazy. He took on extra shifts and spent more time with Roland but nothing was working – he couldn't get her beautiful face out of his head. Her hair, lips, eyes, even her hands; he loved everything about her. He really thought by working more and hanging out at the station and being side-tracked; he would stop thinking about her. But, when she would text him at random times and flirt; he wouldn't be able to control himself and he would respond and then they would talk on the phone at night before bed. It was driving him insane. For instance; tonight he and Roland were going to a football game at the high school. He was grateful his son still wanted to spend time with him so he was really looking forward to this. They parked the car and headed over to the field. Roland walked up the bleacher steps and Robin followed. After a few minutes; he couldn't help but notice that his son appeared to be looking for someone "Roland what's up," he asked.

"My friend Henry is coming. So, I thought we'd hang. We're in a few of the same classes this year."

"Oh . . . that's nice."

"Don't worry Pop; we won't desert you," he said laughing.

"Good to know," Robin said. A few minutes later; Roland stood and shouted Henry's name. Robin rolled his eyes when he saw who was following him – he should have known. He groaned as his fellow officer sauntered up the steps behind her son "Swan . . . how are you tonight," he asked.

"Hood . . ." They bumped fists and the boys did the same and sat down next to one another.

"Let's go we have something to do," his blonde partner said seriously.

"What?"

"Hey you two I'll be right back."

"Okay mom; we'll be fine," Henry said. Emma pulled Robin down the stairs and they headed into the school.

"Where are we going," he asked.

"They need help at the concession stand," she explained.

"So, you thought you would just volunteer me?"

"I don't think you'll mind – trust me," Emma said. They walked down the stairs and inside the school where the gym was located.

"I'm supposed to be spending time with Roland," Robin said.

"Will you just be quiet and trust me," she said. As they got closer to the concession stand he stopped dead in his tracks when he saw Regina "The teachers run the stand and they need help. Go . . . I'll stay with the boys." He watched Regina; she was passing drinks and taking money "She told me about the two of you. Don't be mad. I just thought this would give you a chance to spend time together. Go partner," she said shoving him a bit. Emma watched as Robin slowly approached the table. They talked for a second and then she grabbed his hand and pulled him next to her. Emma turned around and headed back outside to hang with the kids - mission accomplished.

Robin and Regina were so busy they lost track of time. They eventually ran out of drinks and snacks and she grabbed his hand and said "We have to hurry if we're going to catch the rest of the game." They ran out of the gym and Robin tried to remember where Emma and the boys were sitting. Eventually he heard Roland's voice and they headed up the stands to join them "Who's winning," Regina asked.

"We are. What took you guys so long," Henry asked.

"Leave your God Mother alone she was working," Emma said.

"Whoa . . . Miss. Mills is your God Mother," Roland exclaimed.

Henry laughed "Yeah' that's the reason I can't take any of her classes," Henry replied.

"That sucks for you," Roland said.

"I guess that means I'm a good teacher," Regina said as she leaned in toward them.

The boys both laughed and everyone continued to watch the game; Emma leaned toward Robin "Henry wants Roland to sleep over. So, I'll take the boys tonight," she said.

Robin looked surprised "Are you sure?"

"Yeah' I don't mind," she said. "They're buddies and I think it's a good thing."

"Hey, you're my ride. What am I supposed to do," Regina asked.

Emma smiled "I'm sure there's someone that will take pity on you."

"Swan; what are you up to," Robin asked.

"Well, if you don't want to take Regina home there's always one of her fellow teachers like that Sidney guy," Emma suggested.

"Gross . . . shut your mouth," Regina whispered. "It's bad enough I feel like he's always undressing me with his eyes," she said softly.

"I'm definitely taking her home. Don't you worry," Robin said as he smiled at Emma.

"Well, if that's settled this game is basically over – why don't we get ice cream," Emma said.

"Here Roland take some money just in case," Robin replied as he started to take money out of his wallet.

"No, I got this. I'll talk to you tomorrow and we'll arrange a drop off. Goodnight," Emma said as she stood.

Regina swatted her on the butt "I know what you're up to," she said to her friend.

The boys laughed and Emma smiled brightly and wiggled her eyebrows "Bye Pop," Roland said as he fist bumped his father.

"Behave yourself."

"I will." They watched as Emma and the boys took off.

Robin took Regina's hand "Do you want to wait for the end?"

"Sure," she said. They sat huddled together and watched the rest of the football game. When it ended; several teachers and students said good night as they headed toward the parking lot. When they got to Robin's car he opened the door for her and she got in "We're going to Mifflin Street," she said softly.

"Oh' that's a nice neighborhood," Robin said.

"My parents left the house to me; they died many years ago" she said softly.

"I'm sorry," he replied as he turned out of the parking lot.

"Where are your parents," she asked.

"They've been gone many years also. It's just me and Roland," he said.

"I see," she replied. "I'm sorry too. Roland and Henry seem to be getting along."

"Yes, I'm glad. I have a feeling Emma thinks Roland will have a positive effect on Henry. He's serious about his schoolwork. She tells me lately Henry has been slacking. Which house is it when I turn onto Mifflin; we're almost there," he said.

"It's the second house on the right; the big white one. Freshman students tend to go through a lot of changes. It's their first year of high school. It can be challenging." A few seconds later Robin was pulling the car in front of her house. She couldn't help but chuckle when his eyes bulged out of his head "I know it's a little overwhelming. Why don't you come in and I'll give you the grand tour? We can watch a movie," she suggested.

He cut the engine and sat back in his seat "Are you sure?"

"Yes, as long as you are," she said glancing over at him.

"Alright, let's go," he said. Once they were inside; she turned off the alarm, they hung up their jackets and took their shoes off. She told him to leave them by the door as she began the tour. She held his hand as she walked him around from room to room and eventually they ended up in the kitchen.

She grabbed the tea kettle "Tea," she asked.

"Yes, that would be lovely," he replied.

She put the kettle on "You're quiet. Is everything alright?"

"Yes of course; I'm just taking it all in," he said.

"I know it's a bit overwhelming . . ."

"It's a beautiful house."

"Thank you. My mother worked for the government and my father was a horse handler at the local stables," she explained.

He leaned against the counter and crossed his arms "That's impressive," he said softly. She simply nodded as she continued the task at hand and Robin cleared his throat "I noticed you said we could watch a movie but I didn't see a television down here as we walked around."

"Oh' I almost forgot; the T.V in the den broke last week so I only have the one in my bedroom," she admitted. "But, we can just listen to music if you want. We don't have to go upstairs." They were staring at one another. He was trying really hard not to but he couldn't help himself. He wanted to pull her into his arms, hold and kiss her until they couldn't breathe. She took two cups out of the cabinet "Would you like sugar in your tea?"

"Milk and sugar please," he replied. She fixed their drinks and they began to sip and then she hastily placed her cup down on the counter "Is something wrong," he asked.

"It's just . . . I don't think we can be friends," she said.

His eyes shot up and he stared into her face and he said "Why not?"

"I want more," she said softly.

"What?"

"I want us to be more than friends but I'm afraid," she admitted.

He ran his hand over the top of his head and sighed "That's what I thought you said." He took a few steps toward her "I can't stop thinking about kissing your mouth," he said softly. He reached out and began playing with the ends of her hair "You consume my thoughts. I've been waiting for you to . . . I don't know confirm that you feel the same way."

She finally looked up and glanced into his face "I do but the question is do we stop being friends and walk away completely or do we take this to the next level?"

He placed his hands on either side of her waist and leaned in closer "I want you," he said seriously. "I don't think I can walk away," he admitted. He rubbed his nose against hers and then kissed her forehead "I want you Regina but I will do whatever you want."

"Will you hold me for a minute," she asked. Robin pulled her into his arms and ran his hands down her back. She wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned in close. He could smell her shampoo; vanilla and he nuzzled his nose against her neck and she sighed. It felt nice. She wanted this but she would be taking a huge chance. They would have to have complete communication when it came not only to their relationship but with Roland as well. She gripped his shirt and his hand stilled on her back.

"Is this alright," he whispered into her ear.

"Yes, but I can't take it anymore - kiss me," she said softly.

He pulled back slightly "Thank God," he said as he slowly leaned in and placed his lips over hers. She moaned as he placed his hands on either side of her head. She opened her mouth giving him permission as he stroked his tongue against hers. She wrapped her arms around his neck and he pushed himself against her. He had her backed against the counter and when she moaned Robin couldn't help that his body instantly reacted to the sound. Her fingers carted through his hair and they kept kissing. Finally, she slowed them down and when they parted; he placed his forehead against hers "God, you're a good kisser." She smiled and that's when his phone rang; "Shit," he said softly as he took a step back from her. He glanced down at his phone and it was Emma "Swan, everything alright?"

"The short version . . . I'm on my way with the boys. There was a shooting at the town line and they need all hands on deck. One of the guys got away on foot. Meet me outside in ten."

"Alright, see you then," he replied. Robin told Regina quickly what was going on and asked her to come outside while he put on his vest and holster. Once they were out at his car; he put on his jacket and he kissed her sweetly "Thank you for a lovely evening."

"Be careful and just come back after. Don't worry about Roland."

"I won't. Thank you." He hugged her and rubbed his nose against hers "I want you to be careful also. Emma says one of the guys got away on foot so lock the door and set the alarm."

"I will." After one more kiss; they heard the siren in the distance and the patrol car raced down the street and stopped in front of them. Roland and Henry jumped out and Robin hugged his son "You mind Miss. Mills."

"I will pop," he said. Robin jumped in the car and they took off.

"C'mon Roland I'll give you the grand tour," Henry said as they headed up the sidewalk.

"Pick a room to share," Regina said as she followed behind them. They went inside and she let out a breath – it was going to be a long night.