Emma explained everything about her California gig to Henry, and he did take things quite philosophically. He was fourteen – he wasn't going to whine about Emma going away, wasn't he? Emma had to make a living. Besides, he had basically spent all his life without her, what were a few more months? This time though, Emma promised to Skype and send emails and postcards and various packages of Californian treats while she was away. Indeed, Henry was fine. But he wasn't sure Regina was.

"Mum?" he asked for the third time. "Did you hear what I said?"

"Hmm? Yes, of course dear," Regina answered in an over-cheerful voice. "Don't worry, Emma will be back in no time."

"I'm not worried about Emma leaving, Mum," Henry said in his most earnest tone. "I'm worried about you – about both of you. Emma is putting on a brave face, but it's obvious she's not happy. And you…"

"What about me?"

"Come on, Mum!" Henry replied, comically rolling his eyes as if he were the adult in the room. "I'm young, I'm not blind. You've been moping for two days, playing Klezmer like crazy and pretending everything is fine. She's leaving tomorrow. You need to talk to her now. Just go! I promise I'll behave."

Regina could feel her eyes widen in surprise and her cheeks burn as she suddenly flushed crimson with embarrassment. "What do you mean you're not blind?" she had to ask.

"I know you like her now, Mum." Henry said, patiently stating the obvious. "It's OK. We've been alone for too long, don't you think? You're so much happier when she's around! You two need to talk about stuff, because you're both miserable right now. Go before it's too late!"

Okay, this was quite clear – and definitely awkward. So, it was that obvious to her son that she liked Emma. Regina believed she had never had this kind of conversation with Henry. But then, there had never been anyone to discuss before.

"Even if I wanted to, I couldn't go," Regina pointed out. "I don't know where Emma lives."

"Not a problem," Henry said cheerfully, getting his smartphone out of his pocket. "I do."

Of course he did.