The Fourth of July came and went with a blink of an eye. Ruby and I found ourselves lost in a blur the past month, consumed by our restaurant. We ended up hiring my niece because of how busy we were. Robin grew up around our restaurant so she was able to jump right in. Even though she has been very professional, I am still keeping a watchful eye on her. When she thinks I'm not looking, she's extra flirtatious with my assistant, Tilly, and we can't afford to lose the young woman.

We were now in the beginning of August. Mother's growing anxious for their children to finally be back in school and out of their hair. Children whining and finding every thing on Earth boring. I haven't even seen Emma in nearly two weeks from my crazy schedule, along with her training and outrageous hours at work she has been experiencing lately. Hopefully this evening at T-ball we will see each other, even though she has been texting and staying connected that way.

"Henry!" Evie shouts from the bench where all her teammates are sitting, waiting for the game to begin.

I crane my neck to catch a glimpse of my friend but much to my disappointment, Uncle Jessie wanna be, is strolling up with Henry by his side. The young boy is laughing at something the man has just said. Jack laughs along while he rests his hand on top of Henry's baseball cap and shakes his head playfully.

"Henry!" My daughter bellows persuading her friend to run toward the dugout, reminding him that he's late.

The little boy stops in front of the coach to engage in a quick chat before he takes his seat next to my daughter. She shoves his shoulder most likely for being late but then they both turn their attention to the coach.

"Where's Emma?" I question as Jack claims the open spot next to me. He smells clean, like he just stepped out of the shower before arriving.

"Awww, you're not happy to see me?" The man pouts out his full bottom lip while his strong elbow connects into mine. My upper lip twitches as I jerk away from his touch.

"I just haven't seen her in awhile."

"Yeah," he chuckles as he sweeps his longer strands out of his eyes and to one side. "She's getting that sexy little body back." My entire face scrunches in disgust. "I'm just teasing, she had to work tonight."

"That hospital has really been running her ragged lately," I state the obvious but I'm also hoping he will elaborate on the subject.

"Yeah well, she's had to pick up a few extra shifts," and just like that, he took the bait. "I've had some great interviews lately but nothing I can accept. The pay rate isn't worth my time, you know." I wait patiently and allow this man to continue because I know him and I know he loves the sound of his own voice. "This is why I was so hesitant to move here, I knew this would be a struggle."

"What is it that you do?"

"I was a journalist back in Boston," his broad hand clasps on the back of his neck, rubbing the area as though it maybe sore. "But I gave up my career for Emma." He smiles in the most sincere way, flashing me his perfectly white teeth through his crooked grin.

"Well can't you accept one of the offers to help Emma out, at least until something better comes along?" I question just as Ivy makes her way back from the concession stand. My friend sits down on the other side of me and greets Emma's boyfriend, who simply nods in return.

"I could, but then who would be there for Henry during the week when Emma's at work. We agreed I would hold off until Henry's back in school. Hey where's mommy number three?"

"She's at work this evening," Ivy replies kind enough, but I know her and there's judgement in her tone.

I smile weakly and avert my eyes, searching for Evie in the dugout. I scan over all the little blue jersey's until I spot Evie's long raven locks pulled through her baseball cap. She's sitting on her hands, swinging her cleats against the dirty concrete below.

Henry taps the bill of her hat before he exits the small area. The little boy swings his bat over his shoulder and walks confidently up to the plate. I'm already smiling knowing the love this boy occupies in his heart for the game. I know Henry must feel closest to his father every time he steps up to bat.

Henry takes a deep breath and prepares himself at the plate. The little boy bends his knees, back elbow up, green eyes focused and pointed at the pitcher. The coach nods, silently asking if Henry is ready. A thick red helmet nods in confirmation. The coach releases the ball and perfectly down the middle for the patient boy across the way.

The loud ping of the ball connecting with the bat echoes into the evening air. Jack, Ivy and I leap to our feet as Henry drops his bat with a loud thunk. His little arms are slicing through the air as he makes a break for first base. We all clap, screaming words of encouragement.

The little boy on first is empty handed, no ball in sight for him as Henry barrels through. The other boy should be stepping aside to allow Henry to pass but he's blocking the base. My body stiffens knowing something isn't right. That's when the other child extends both of his arms and jumps directly in front of the base. Henry collides full speed into his opponent, effectively knocking both children to the dirt below.

"Shit," Jack mutters to himself as he jumps off the side of the bleachers. I rush down the steps and follow the man out onto the field.

Loud groans erupt from the two small children, rolling on the ground while the coach on first and the pitching coach rush to the children.

"Henry!" I call out as fear strikes deep in my gut.

"What the hell? That kid shoved my son," Jack accuses staring murderously at the coaches who are kneeling on the ground.

"Felix! I told you to move," the coach that was on first scolds the young boy who's clutching his tailbone in agony.

Karma, you little shit!

"He was going to score again," Felix whines.

Jack and I squat down next to Henry. Dark green eyes are glossy while he bites down hard on his bottom lip. I can't help but fear he might draw blood if he continues to suppress his tears.

"Buddy, you okay? What hurts?" Jack questions as he's searching frantically for some sort of physical marking. Henry sucks in a sharp breath refusing to speak.

"Henry, honey, please tell us what hurts," I plead with the small child. "If something is wrong we need to take you to see your mommy."

"I'm fine," Henry stammers through gritted teeth.

"No you're not," Jack argues slipping his arms beneath Henry and easily lifting the small child into the air.

"I'm so sorry, I don't know what my son was thinking," a younger woman apologizes as she glares at her son in disappointment.

"Excuse me, I need to take Henry to get checked out," Jack coldly dismisses the woman's apology.

"I want to play," the little boy protests, his tears barely hanging on.

"Honey, we are going to take you to your mommy okay?" I softly whisper as my fingers pull the heavy helmet from his head.

"Ma'am your son is out for the rest of the season, that was uncalled for and he should know better," the coach orders while I roll my eyes. There's only two games left of the season, great punishment.

"I want to play." Henry's bottom lip trembles and finally the tears are rushing down his face. "I hit the ball so far...did you see Jack? Did you see?"

"I did buddy but we have to take you in. Can you walk?"

Henry simply nods but the distorted look upon his face is screaming no. Jack gently places Henry on his feet but the boy instantly folds under the pressure. Jack and I both reach out to catch Henry before he hits the ground.

"Jeez kid, what hurts?" Jack pleads lifting the young boy into his arms again.

"My ankle," a whimper of a reply forces more tears to spill down his already wet face.

"Okay, lets take you to the hospital," I coo as we make our way off the field.

Ivy is standing directly behind my daughter near the dugout. Evie's face is pinched together expressing her concern for her best friend. Ivy is gripping my daughter's shoulders with fear written all over her face.

"Henry? Are you okay?" Evie timidly questions taking a step closer to us. The young boy doesn't answer as he holds the damaged area with both hands.

"He's going to be fine sweetie but Jack needs to take him to the hospital," I softly explain.

"Uh, 'gina...you come?" Henry stutters as he fights against the pain.

"Regina, you go ahead, I'll keep Evie with me."

"Are you sure Ivy? I can take her."

"No, no. Just call us and let us know how he is later," Ivy insists.

"You be good for Ivy, I'll pick you up tonight okay?" Evie nods as I kiss the top of her forehead. "I love you."

"I love you too momma. Feel better Henry!" My daughter calls out but Henry can't seem to find the strength to respond.

Jack and I jog toward the his car in a frenzy at this point. "I'm going to text Emma. Maybe she will be on break or something and have a heads up that we are coming." Jack nods as he opens the back door to his pick up truck and places Henry in the back seat. "Henry would you like me to ride in the back with you?"

"Please Regina," he begs through his thick tears. I climb into the backseat while Jack fastens Henry's seatbelt. "It really really hurts," Henry whales out in pain. His breathing is harsh and erratic, I could be mistaken but he sounds like he might hyperventilate.

"Henry, honey, look at me please," I softly whisper as my fingers gently guide his chin to face me. "I need you to take one deep breath in and then blow that breath out very slowly okay?"

Henry's puffy, red eyes are filled to the rim with tears as he tries to keep his focus on me and not the ache in his ankle. He follows my instructions, in which I plead with him to continue until his breathing is back to normal.

While he concentrates on breathing, I begin untying his shoe. "Wait Regina," the little boy gasps out in pure panic.

"It's okay sweetie," I reassure him, locking our eyes so he knows he can trust me. "I'm just going to remove your shoe and look at your ankle okay?" He slowly nods but the fear filling his eyes breaks my heart instantly. "Can you tell me what happened after that boy pushed you?" I inquire hoping if he talks to me it will distract him from my actions.

"I don't know?" He shrugs his tiny shoulder and I remove his cleat. "I just fell."

"I'm going to take off your sock now, okay? I promise you I will not touch your ankle," I vow and wait for his approval before I continue.

"Okay Regina."

I slowly peel the sweaty sock from his foot to discover his ankle the size of a softball. I want to gasp, I want to yell at Jack to drive faster but I know that will only frighten Henry.

"Is it bad?" Jack questions as his eyes reach mine in the review mirror.

"It's swollen," I confirm but I refuse to say how bad it actually looks. "Henry, they might have to take some pictures of your ankle to make sure nothing is broken."

"X-rays."

"Yes honey, X-rays. Maybe it's just a really bad sprain," I suggest while slowly removing his baseball cap as well.

I sweep my fingers through his damp strands and push his thick brown hair to one side. I'm not entirely sure how Emma usually comforts him but my heart is aching for him and I just want to comfort him as best as I can.

Soon Jack is screeching tires into a parking spot and pulling Henry from the backseat. We rush through the emergency doors and head straight for the receptionist.

"Hi, is Emma Swan working?" The older woman with permanent frown lines around her mouth, peers up at me looking awfully grumpy. "This is her son and he had an accident at T-ball tonight. I'm not sure if his ankle is badly sprained or what?"

The grey haired woman purses out her lips as her brown eyes flick from Henry and back to me. "Take a seat please," she strictly orders while picking up her phone. Her long red pressed on nails click against the buttons as she dials some unknown number.

"Jack, why don't you and Henry sit," I suggest guiding them toward the waiting area.

"You would think, she would send us right back. Not like there's anyone here waiting," the man gruffly mumbles before setting Henry gently down in a chair.

Jack and I decide to stand knowing we are both too anxious to sit. "Ma'am?" The older receptionist beckons me back to her station. "Emma is with a patient right now." Two double doors swing open exposing a young girl pushing a wheelchair. "We are going to send you back and the moment Emma is available we will send her to her son's room."

"Thank you." I smile kindly as the nurse pushes the chair toward Henry.

Jack lifts Henry and places him in the wheelchair while the young blonde hair, blue eyed nurse introduces herself.

"I'm Ellie, you must be Henry. I know your mom and she just loves showing off pictures of you," the kind nurse explains turning Henry's cheeks a deep shade of pink.

The nurse leads us behind those double doors she entered from. The area is filled with the hustle and bustle anyone would expect from an emergency room. Just stepping foot back here and I can already feel the nervous energy buzzing all around us. Doctors and nurses are working professionally yet quickly as they move swiftly from one area to the next.

"Here we go," Ellie announces our destination to an area that is only secluded by a curtain.

"Should I lift him onto the table?" Jack offers.

"Yes please."

I stand protectively next to the young boy as the nurse begins her practiced routine. I silently hold out my hand offering my comfort and to my surprise Henry doesn't even hesitate. He places his little hand in mine but keeps his attention on the nurse.

Jack stands on the other side of Henry, his arms folded across his chest as if he was the young boy's bodyguard. I know he's still livid about the other boy's uncalled for shove but he's remaining quiet about everything.

"Okay, all set. The doctor should be in shortly and I'll see if I can track down Emma."

The nurse disappears behind the curtain leaving a tearful little boy and two acquaintances left behind. I keep a firm hold on Henry's hand to help keep him calm while my free hand glides through his hair. His head finally rests against my arm, expressing just how comfortable he is with me.

The tiny room is silent except for Henry's sniffling and small breaths. Jack seems utterly lost in a fit of rage but at least he's stewing quietly and not agitating Henry.

The curtain whips open violently revealing a frantic and rather exhausted looking Emma. Her hair is straight for once and pulled back into a long ponytail. Her face is free of any makeup allowing me to see just how tired her eyes are. Besides the dark circles shadowing the bottom, the brims are tinted red but I don't believe she has been crying.

"Henry," she breathes rushing to her son's side. Her eyes shift down and take note where Henry and I are conjoined but she doesn't say a word. She quickly moves along to the injured ankle and inspects every inch without ever touching. "Oh buddy, what happened?" She leans forward and presses her lips firmly against his forehead. She slips one hand behind his head and cradles her son without ever removing her lips. The love she holds dear for her son is enough to cause Henry to burst into heavy tears.

"Some little shit shoved Henry at first. That could've been another home run for this kid," Jack spits in disgust as his fingers clench deeper into his biceps.

"He shoved you Henry?" Emma softly whispers as she ducks down to meet her son's eyes. Henry only nods as he tries to stop his crying.

"The other child claims he didn't want Henry to score again, so when Henry came running up to first and the other boy didn't have the ball to stop him, he pushed him to the ground," I calmly explain.

"So how did you hurt your ankle?" Emma asks but Henry just shrugs.

"Maybe the way he fell, he landed on it wrong or something. Henry was coming in fast and took the other boy down with him," Jack replies with a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. I can't really blame him because that boy deserved falling on his ass as well. "See," the boyfriend begins to speak again as he gently tugs Emma into his arms. "...it's a good thing I'm around to take care of you two." He sweetly pecks her lips making mine quiver in disgust. "What would you do without me, huh?"

Emma smiles but it's one I know too well, the one that doesn't reach her eyes. The one where her green orbs are dull and void of any emotions. He pecks her lips again but lingers just a little bit longer.

"You and Henry are my world. I need you two to survive." He kisses her again to seal his declaration. I clear my throat that's slowly closing from the public affection and release Henry's hand.

"I should be leaving. Henry asked for me to come along for the ride, but now he has you two so I'm going to take off."

"Oh Regina-" Emma begins as Jack holds out his hand.

"Thank you for taking a ride with," he quickly interrupts his girlfriend. My eyes drift toward his hand, lingering in the space between us. I don't want to start any problems so I shake the man's damn hand.

I turn my attention toward Henry and smile from ear to ear. "You're going to be just fine Henry. When you get home tonight have mommy send me a picture of you so I can show Evie you're alright, okay?"

"Okay Regina." From the sound of my daughter's name, the little boy perks up just a little bit.

"Keep in touch," I state before I slip through the curtain and out of that awkward situation.

I pull out my phone and text Ivy, asking if she could pick me up on her way back from the T-ball game. If I'm not mistaken it should be ending soon. Luckily she responded right away saying they were just finishing up.

By the time Evie and I returned home and I helped her shower and tucked her into bed, I still hadn't heard from Emma about Henry. I had to leave that hospital room. I wasn't sure if Jack was trying to make me feel uncomfortable with his affection or if that's normally how they are with one another but I needed to get the hell out of there.

I ended up falling asleep around ten but I was woken up by my phone vibrating against my nightstand. I reached blindly for the device and peeked one eye open to find Emma's name lighting up my screen. The message was a picture which popped my eyes wide open for Henry's sake.

The picture was of Henry fast asleep in his bed with his ankle wrapped up like a mummy and propped up by a pillow. There were tiny little crutches leaning against the bed. My heart swelled with adoration seeing Henry clutch his teddy bear so tight.

What did the doctor say?

I sent my reply and checked the time, finding that it was just after one in the morning. Why the hell does this woman always text in the middle of the night?

Just badly sprained. The doctor thinks about four weeks for recovery. My poor guy.

I frown reading her message. I understand how horrible it feels to have a sick or injured child and there's not much you can do to fix it.

If you need anything, let me know. I'm here for you guys.

I know. Thank you for today. You have no idea how much I appreciate you comforting Henry like that.

That's what mothers do.

She doesn't reply right away and after a few minutes I assume she has fallen asleep. My phone falls to my sheets as my eyes slowly flutter closed. Instantly my phone vibrates again, like Emma knew I was about to fall back asleep.

I know, I just wanted to say thank you since I didn't get a chance in the hospital.

Well you are very welcome. Now, why are you up? You looked exhausted today.

I did? So you're saying I looked like shit?

I mull over her bold choice of words but I can already see in my mind's eye the cute little teasing smirk gracing the corner of her mouth.

Just tired dear. Jack told me you were picking up extra shifts.

Yes. He can't seem to find a job. Nobody is hiring journalists right now. It's all my fault that he's unemployed but I know he really must love us to give up his career like that.

I roll my eyes knowing she can't see me and tease me for it. I hate how much she is in control of all my emotions. I decide to change the subject because frankly I don't want to talk about her charming and good looking boyfriend who gives up everything for them.

How is your training coming along?

I'm having a hard time with the areas around my hips. There's too much fat. Jack says it's cute but I don't think so.

Again with the boyfriend. I'm so glad she can't see all my consistent eye rolls.

I've never seen an ounce of fat on you.

The little bubbles indicating that she's typing her response flutter at the bottom of our messages. I wait. I wait. Then I wait some more for those bubbles to turn into a message. Suddenly the bubbles vanish but nothing comes through. I furrow my eyebrows in confusion and keep waiting until my eyelids grow impatient and I succumb to a heavy slumber.