A/N: Hey everyone, thank you for the comments and condolences. Life definitely has a way of reminding you not to take for granted the relationships you've built.
I've been getting a lot of DM's asking if I'll time jump to when Emma is 18, if I do it will be in the epilogue. The story centers around their underage teacher/student relationship and the risks that it puts them in.
GloriaCarol: I was dead at your comment about the mayor of Maine. In the state of California it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 (under consent as well) to have sex with an adult.
A few things to remember for this chapter:
SQ is endgame
Things are not as they appear
As Regina says: 'Don't jump to conclusions'
With that being said, enjoy.
"So are you guys still together?" Belle asked, drumming her fingers along the base of my neck. My eyes closed for a moment and Regina's pained expression was the only thing I could see. Shrugging my shoulders I flipped over on my back and threw one leg over the ledge of the couch. She placed a hand on my stomach, drawing small circles around my belly button.
"I don't know. It feels like we aren't, I thought I would've heard from her by now." Or maybe I shouldn't be expecting anything.
"It's only Sunday, not even two full days yet. Maybe she needs some time."
Shaking my head, a small huff filled the living room, changing to a sigh once Belle started to comb through my hair with her fingers.
"Yea, maybe." I mumbled.
"What time do your parents get home from that Cop Ball thing?"
"Late, they usually don't get back until 2am, sometimes later." I replied, flipping back over on my side and trying my best to get comfortable. My eyes flickered to the cell phone resting on the coffee table, a cell phone that has been unusually quiet since Friday. Yes I was pissed with everything that happened but didn't she want to settle it? Or did she realize this has been a complete waste of time of her time.
"Do they know?" Belle continued, now running her finger along the underside of my jaw. I nodded, remembering how my parents held me that night I came home with puffy eyes.
"I was suppose to stay with Regina but obviously that didn't happen."
Belle sat there running her hands over my skin and though her touch was lighter it still reminded me of Regina. Jesus, Belle is right, it's only been two fucking days. Why am I wallowing?
"You know what I think you need?" she said, stopping the ministrations and drifting her gaze down to me.
"What?" I asked, tucking my hand under my cheek.
"Two words…Cheese. Danish."
My eyebrows perked up, slowly I brought myself to an upright position and looked at her feeling hints of a smile pull on my lips. Cheese Danishes? It's a wrap. Instead of replying I ran to the stairs and sprinted up to my room with Belle yelling from the bottom:
"Where something presentable!"… I grumbled at this. If I could it would be an over sized sweatshirt, sweatpants and fuzzy boots. However I went with a more grunge-ish look. Black Vans, skinny jeans, a flannel shirt tied around my waist, black t-shirt and black beanie. When I hopped back down the stairs Belle stared at me, her eyes were wide and lips with a slight pout.
"What?" I asked, shrugging my shoulders. "You said look presentable."
"I did." she replied, grabbing her coat and throwing it on. "I think it's suppose to rain today. I'll drive."
Belle swiped her keys off the hook and opened door at the same shrieking so loud I had to cover my ears.
"What the fuck was that fo-oh..." Should I be happy right now? After shooting a dirty look to Belle, Roland straightened his puffy jacket and glanced at me. I was caught up in his innocent smile, running over to him and dropping to my knees. "Kid, what are you doing here?" Then a thought or rather a memory hit me from the last time he came up to me with a naive expression. Immediately I stood up, scanning the perimeter of my house. Then a flashy black Maserati caught my eye and I'm relieved.
"Are you here to set me up again?" I asked, watching his face shift from innocence to guilt. His brown eyes flickered to the ground and nervous fingers wrestled with the cuff of his jacket sleeves.
"No." he mumbled.
"It was his idea to come see you." Zelena interjected as she closed the driver side door and walked up the pathway. "It was either look for Emma or wedding shopping with Grandma." she finished, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. Zelena's eyes darted to Belle, almost doing a double take at my blushing best friend.
"Oh, this is-"
"Belle." she replied, pushing out her chest while sticking her hand out. Sucking in my lips I held back the chuckle at Belle being so blatantly obvious. Zelena accepted the hand shake and in my opinion their palms stayed clasped together longer than the average meet and greet introductory shake. "We were about to grab some danishes from Emma's favorite spot. Do you want to come?" Belle finished and after she pulled her hand away, stuffed it in her pockets.
Roland's face seem to beam with joy at the word 'danishes' and with that kid it's hard to say no.
"Can we pleeease Zelena?" He jumped up and down on the tip of his toes while yanking on the sleeve of her jacket.
"Okay, but you have to promise not to tell your dad." Zelena's smile was infectious as she held up her pinkie for the ultimate swear. With bubbling energy Roland bounced on his feet, wrapping his cute little fingers around hers. "I'll drive, it's the one by the park right?" She finished, sending the kid a wink then giving us her attention.
"Yes it is. You ready Em?"
I couldn't answer before Roland was pulling me out of the house and towards the shiny black car. Tossing my keys back at Belle I let her lock up the house, hearing faint chatter between her and Zelena. They seem to be hitting off surprisingly well. Zelena reminded me of Regina when we first met, keeping a careful yet connected distance, strong gazes, light touches to the body and showing off that dazzling smile. I will say this, the Mills sisters know how to charm.
Belle sat in the front, leaving me in the back with Roland. I was okay with this, I didn't feel like talking or thinking, truthfully I didn't feel like going out with them. I love Roland, I dig Zelena, but I could also go without seeing anybody from the Mills family. Although this kid has wormed his way into my heart.
"Can you read this for me?" His airy voice floated to my ears and I shifted my gaze from the window to the outstretched hand with a piece of paper at the end. After eyeing him and getting nothing, I took the white paper with printed lettering and read:
The time is here! The 5th grade Family Picnic is upon us. If you are receiving this letter than a tiny member of our school would like you to join us for the fun. March 8th 10:00AM-1:30PM
Surprised is not the word, but I can't think of anything better. Roland, a kid I met only months ago wants me to go with him to a family picnic. Me, family.
"This is in a week and a half, plus I have school and..." I trailed off, watching his smile drop. Sad eyes shifted away from mine and he nibbled on his bottom lip.
"I was going to ask Friday but, you know." he half mumbled half whispered. The chatter up front stopped, I glanced to the rear view mirror and Zelena was there to meet me.
"If you volunteer or get invited you are dismissed from school, not sure how but they convert the credits of time spent helping out the younger kids." said Belle as she turned around in the seat to face the two of us. "All you'd really have to do is get permission from Mr and Mrs S."
Well, aren't you just the knowledgeable one.
But a day off from school with work, no class, no teachers and free food...that just sounds way too good to pass up.
"Let me take a picture of this and send it to my parents." Turning my attention back to Roland, I winked and he smiled, trying to wink back but ended up squinting both eyes. The shudder from my camera went off and I sent it in the group chat.
"Where are your parents anyway?" Zelena asked.
"My dad got invited to a Blue Tie Ball in Hollywood, it's basically a whole bunch of cops and their wives dancing, drinking, and having fun. They go every year and make a weekend trip out of it."
Nodding her head, she turned up the music as my phone beeped. Speaking of the devil.
We think that would be a great experience for you. Leave it on the counter, your mom and I will sign it when we get back this evening. XOXO
With a smile I sent back okay, thanks, love you, and a few emojis behind it then shoved my phone in my pocket. Roland shot me curious glance, I didn't return it. I was going to let him squirm for as long as I could.
Conversation between the three of us plus random comments from Roland filled the car. The simplicity of going out and grabbing food was something I didn't realize I missed until now. No secrecy, no looking over my shoulder, it was people going out to eat.
Zelena parked in an open spot right next to the cafe. When we stepped out of the car the front door to the bakery opened, pushing out the fresh scent of pastries made from scratch. Groaning in unison we charged inside, ready to fill our mouths and stomach with danishes.
"Do you want me to get us table?" I asked, already backing up from the sardine packed line.
"Yes, before they're all gone." Zelena replied. "What do you want?"
"Oh no, it's okay I can pay for it."
"No, I insist. Call it an apology for crashing your day. What do you want?" Regina and her sister are persistent when it comes to things like this.
"Fine, hot chocolate with cinnamon and a cheese danish."
"See was that so hard?" Zelena teased, spinning around and dipping her head to talk to Belle. Roland stood in between them with a thoughtful expression crossing his face as he looked at the menu. Okay, empty table with four chairs. I spun around, scoping out the various tables before I collided into a firm and muscular build.
I stumbled back, shaking my head from the small onset of dizziness and when my eyes focused a loud scoff cut from my chest.
"Oh! I'm sorry about that I-" he paused, shifting his gaze back to me. "Emma?!"
"Hello Warren." I dimly replied, because it isn't bad enough Regina has been quiet, now I run into the ex. "Sorry about that, good to see you." I continued my destination to an empty table but still his shadow hung over me like a gray cloud.
"Do you mind if I sit while I wait for my things?" Warren asked, flashing a dazzling smile under his sharp and edgy features. My green eyes moved to Zelena and Belle, they cast curious and worried expressions but I sent them a subtle nod. Everything will be okay.
Hopefully anyway.
"Sure." I replied, keeping my tone indifferent. He began to descend before the barista behind the counter called his name.
"Warren!"
Pausing half way he smiled at me then walked off to grab his drinks. I was thankful, now he can just leave instead of trying to pass the time making small talk with me. He seemed genuine about it, I'm not. I could care less if I ever talk to this beast of a man again. Except, after grabbing the drinks Warren made eye contact with me, a soft smile appeared on his face as he made his way back to my table.
You've got to be fucking kidding me.
Two coffee cups were set down on the table, my stomach immediately turned. I'm trying not to jump to conclusions but who else would the other one be for? A mini loaf of banana bread was placed in front of me. The steam rose and my stomach gurgled. With an eyebrow raised I sent him a questioning gaze.
"They're going to be in line for awhile." he replied, nodding his head to Zelena, Belle, and Roland. Roland...who was shooting daggers at the man a million times bigger than him, I wanted to give him a high five for that. It does make me wonder what he has heard, Friday the kid was fine, today he seems to have changed his perception of Warren.
What happened after I left?
"Thanks." I replied and pulled the plate closer. He sat down across from me pushing one cup to the edge then cradled the other in his hands.
"I do love this weather. Gloomy days remind me of Seattle." his voice had a hint of home sickness to it. For a moment, and I mean a moment, I felt sorry for the guy. Instead of voicing this I nibbled on the bread, accidentally moaning when it melted on my taste buds. An amused smirk passed over his face before he took a sip of his drink, mimicking the groan I made. "Just so you don't feel left out. This place is amazing."
""It is. Thanks again for the banana bread." I managed out. It would be easier to justify my dislike for him if he wasn't so fucking sweet. Seriously, he's kind of a catch. Seemingly successful job, makes a decent amount of money (I assume), has his own place, no kids, and he's a gentleman. Him and Regina would be perfect or were perfect or still perfect?
"It's no problem, really." he smiled, showing off his perfect teeth. "I was not sure if I would see you after Friday. Are you okay?"
No don't do that. Don't ask me about my feelings and shit.
"Yea, I just received shitty news from a friend. I may have over reacted." I mumbled, feeling slighted that Regina hasn't reached out yet and the very real possibility that coffee off to the side is for her.
"Depends on how close you are to this friend and the news." he said shrugging his shoulders. "If you're attached and the news was in fact shitty, maybe you didn't over react." Warren's heated eyes burned with compassion for a subject he knew nothing about.
"Well, thanks." I mumbled. He took a sip and I bit in the bread. I glanced over to the line to see how long until my party returned but there were still 7 people ahead of them. We are going to be here for a while.
"It's good to see you are feeling better." Warren continued and then laughed boldy, leaning back in the chair while bringing the cup to his chest. "Why is this so awkward?" he fumbled with the sleeve of his coffee cup before looking out the window. His blunt words should not surprise me but it does.
"Well, we hardly know each other but keep bumping into one another." I said, putting forth more effort in the conversation. It would be unfortunate if he were to find out due to my lack of participation in this and as much as I want him to find out the things I've been doing to his ex-what his ex has been doing to me, it should probably come from her.
Nodding his head, Warren drifted his gaze back to me, a pensive expression crossed his face.
"How is she, Regina I mean." he asked before smiling and shaking his head as if he were reprimanding himself. "Sorry, that's probably a strange question." I mean, a little. Sitting up in my seat I popped another delicious piece of bread in my mouth, buying time so I can work up the courage to lie to his face.
"I'm not sure I understand." No, I understand.
"Does she seem...happy?"
"I guess. I don't know her like that." I mumbled, shoving another torn off corner in my mouth while pushing away memories of Regina's warm and soft lips pressed against mine as she writhes on top of me.
"Ah, I just figured since Cora invited you over for dinner that you did know her, like that." Yea, trust me buddy, you don't want the details.
"Not really, I mostly know Coach." I lied with ease but the guilt was quick to follow.
"Right, of course." Warren replied. A frown pulled on his lips as a large and heavy hand ran over his brown hair.
"What I can say is the students love her. She's a great teacher, she's passionate, she's the best. Probably the greatest thing that's ever happened to this school."
I'm not sure why I felt the need to console his thoughts but the words were out of my mouth before I could think about it. It did put a smile on his face so that's good, I guess.
"She is great isn't she?" Warren added, mostly talking to himself as an eccentric smirk spread across his rosy lips. Dimples creased in his edgy cheeks and brown eyes glittered with admiration. "Regina is the best thing that's ever happened to me." For once I agree with him. Regina is probably the best thing that's happened to a lot of people. "Has she ever talked about me?"
"Not sure, I try to stay out of my teacher's personal life." Also I didn't sign up to be your therapist, take that shit somewhere else sir.
He nodded, then drummed his fingers against the table followed by a quick check of his phone.
"Well, I should go. Don't want Regina moving all my stuff in her place alone. Thank you-" The rest of Warren's sentence was tuned out by the blood crashing in my ears, the tsunami of jealousy hovered over me and my body trembled.
"Wait-what did you say?" I asked, cutting him off mid word.
"Thank you for letting me talk to you?" he questioned with a raised eyebrow.
"No, before that." the irritation slipped through and he seemed to scramble in thought. Warren glanced away from me, soon his eyes widened before a child like grin appeared again.
"Oh! Yes, I'm moving in with her. It's only temporary, until I move to Colorado but I'm hoping not alone." He shifted in his seat, leaning in and resting his arms on the table. "I'm going to ask her to move with me, or I did ask her."
"And?" I pressed, anger seeping out of my pores.
"And she has to think about it, she's already admitted things were easy between us. I think us spending time together was a reminder for both-"
I tuned out the gruff voice. My stomach turned, the banana bread mush threatening to reappear as nauseating waves of tingles struck my stomach and ended in the palm of my hands.
What.
The.
Fuck.
"I'm thinking movies Friday. It's been months since we've hung out...months Emma. I'm not even over exaggerating." Jefferson exclaimed as he wrapped his arm over my shoulder. "Hello? Earth to Emma!" he continued, waving his hand in front of my face.
"Movies, tomorrow, fine." I replied.
"Are you okay? You've been strange these last few days."
Ugh, I hate how perceptive he is. Monday I missed school, actually throwing up from nerves in the middle of the driveway. Luckily mom didn't make me clean it up. Tuesday we had a fire drill right before 5th period, it lasted damn near the whole period, thank fuck for that because I'm a fucking wreck of emotions. After Warren dropped that little bomb I've been finding it hard to sleep, eat, think, anything. Regina still has not reached out to me and I damn sure won't be reaching out to her. I'm thinking maybe she hasn't called or texted because he's there with her, breathing over her shoulder, except my imagination doesn't stop there. I'm trying my hardest to understand where she is coming from in all f this but damn it, I have a right to be mad too.
Now it's Wednesday and I'm hoping the Universe has another loophole to get me out of this class but as Jefferson and I walk in her hall and chocolate eyes make contact with mine, it seems highly unlikely. Regina, of course, looks amazing: tight red dress that ended mid thigh, black-fuck me-heels, did I mention how her cleavage is very much visible. Like, seriously, how does she get away with wearing these things?
Though I know this isn't for the attention of anybody else, this is to get my attention. Bravo, mission fucking accomplished.
"Gawd she is so hot." Jefferson whispered that I only nodded to. Currently I'm trapped. Trapped in an apologetic, lust fueled stare off. The closer we get the more my hands start to sweat, the faster my heart beats, and the walls felt as though they shrunk. Regina's eyes darted to the crotch of my sweats momentarily then licked her lips. Okay, what does that mean? Aren't we in a fight?
"Okay-" he continued once we got to the classroom where Regina was only a foot away from me. Her perfume relentlessly attacked my senses, it would be so easy to fall in our old habits and forget this even happened. "-Friday we get some best friend time." he finished then looked at Regina and gave her a wide smile. "Hey Ms. Mills."
She was surprised but it was gone in a few seconds. Regina must've thought I told them all what happened. I didn't. Belle so kindly reminded me that even though we are all best friends, doesn't mean I'm obligated to tell them what's going on.
"Hello Jefferson, it's good to see you." her voice was oddly calm. I was expecting something forced and gritty, even now she continues to shock me.
"I love that dress." Jefferson leaned in and whispered "Fingers crossed it gets ripped off later." and I elbowed him, hard, directly in his ribs.
"Yes, let's hope so." Regina replied. I froze, the way her voice dropped just now...fuck...too many memories. I didn't respond to either of them as I marched into class. She can't possibly think we're okay enough to do anything sex related. Rounding Richie's empty desk I noticed something strange. Pausing mid stride I turned and my eyes widened. Why is there so much space? Where is Regina's desk?
Belle quietly cleared her throat, calling for my attention, and once I looked at her she pointed to a spot just beyond my seat. My eyes followed and I frowned when I saw Regina's desk tucked away in the back corner.
"Have a seat Miss Swan." I jumped and gasped at the warmth of her breath brushing against my skin. Miss Swan, not even in an 'I'm mad at you' more like 'I want to push you against the wall.' I feel like a turkey being basted before it gets popped in the oven.
She chuckled warmly at my hesitation and I felt the flush stay on my cheeks as I walked to my seat.
"Okay class, how is everyone today?" Regina asked as I settled in my chair and plopped my text book on the desk.
"Always great in your class." Richie replied, running in and diving to his desk just as the bell rang. She flashed an amused smile before one of her perfect eyebrows raised.
"Cutting it close there."
"Sorry, it won't happen again." he mumbled.
Regina nodded then walked over to his desk, leaning her thigh against it as she looked all of us over. Just like the first day in class I avoided eye contact, her eyes lingered on my face but I fought the urge to meet her. She needed to understand we were not all of sudden 'okay'. Her sigh didn't go unnoticed before diving in our lesson for the day and I smirked at moment of victory.
"Please take out your book and flip to chapter 10.1, we will discuss the reading from last night's chapter then get started on the test." she replied, pushing off Richie's desk and walking down my aisle. Regina stopped when she was just behind my seat and her perfume struck without warning. "Lily, can you tell me the two relationships they went over."
"Direct and Linear." she replied, not even looking at her book. Show off.
"Ethan, what happens in a linear relationship?" Regina questioned as she took two steps forward, placing herself beside me. After leaning on the thin metal rod connecting my chair to the desk I swept over the smooth legs and looked away once the familiar heat between us began to boil.
"Two data points will form a straight, perfect fit line. The formula being y=mx+b, to be specific." To be specific I mimicked to myself.
"Correct. Belle what happens in a direct relationship?" Another step forward and now...well now I have a great view of her ass.
"When one variable increases, the other increases or as one decreases, the other decreases."
Regina nodded, turning her entire body to face us, or me. This time our eyes met and she was determined not to let them go.
"So in a direct and linear relationship there are two points in a graph-" she held up a pointer finger from each hand to the class but kept those intense brown eyes on me. "-that create the perfect line. Once they're connected-" Slowly, Regina brought the tips of her fingers together before curling them around one another. "-they stay connected. As Belle mentioned, these two points move in tandem. There is an energy that ties them together resulting in an unbreakable bond. It is constant, it is electric, it's ever flowing, it is as Ethan would put it, a perfect fit."
Goosebumps rose under my shirt and I held back a shiver by tightening my grip around the pencil in the center of my sweaty palm. She's talking about us, I'm sure of it. Maybe she was tired of watching me squirm under her heavy eyes but after a few more seconds heavy lidded eyes moved to the rest of the students.
"With that being said, test time." she said and a chorus of groans filled the room. I would've joined them, my mind however is still reeling from Regina's words. Does this mean we have not broken up and hopefully Warren telling me he moved in with her is a figment of my imagination.
With fluid and precise movements she glided back to her desk, grabbing the stack of papers on the edge. Leaning to the side I slipped the textbook in my backpack, my heart dropped when her heels came into view. My fingers twitched, missing her smooth skin and yearning to reach out and draw patterns on her leg.
I cleared my throat and sat up with caution, biting my lip when her hand, along with the test underneath, slid on my desk.
"Emma." she whispered below the chatter. "Please..." the distress in Regina's tone was clear and it only pulled on my heart strings. I ignored my desires though, gripping the test and pulling it from under the hold she had. There was a defeated sigh before heels clicked against the ground, fading with each step and a quiet "you may begin" filled the room after the last test was handed out. Regina walked behind the back row, stopping once again behind my desk. Her body popped up beside me and she dropped to a squat. The sudden movement caught my eye causing my head to jerk in her direction.
Fuck.
I'm stuck.
Curious eyes, shining with regret bore into mine.
"Do you need any help?" Regina was desperate if she's going through these lengths to get my attention.
"No, I'm okay." I replied as indifferent as I could but that plan was quickly squashed when her hand covered mine. My skin burned under her touch and familiar tingles zig zagged through out my body. "Are you sure?" she pressed, adding a gentle squeeze.
"Yes. Thank you Ms. Mills." I said with some difficulty. She did not want to take my answer but what choice did she have. And I don't understand why it has to be right now, why not after school?
Deep in thought, Regina nibbled on her lip before giving me a short nod, standing up, and walking back to her desk. Disregarding Belle's side glances I focused on passing this test.
Turns out, studying and paying attention in class does work. I'm flowing through the test confidently until the very last question throws me off. Chewing on the edge of my pencil I racked my brain for any hints or clues that could help me with this word problem, none came to mind.
Fucker. The last damn one too.
Sucking down my pride by taking a deep breath, I grabbed the sheet of paper and swiveled in my seat. Regina was buried in grading tests but once I got to my feet her head shot up, glancing down at the test then to me, she patted the open seat next hers. Pulling on the hem of my shirt I walked over, placed the test on her desk and sat down, scooting the chair away to create some distance. She either didn't see or didn't care as her chair rolled closer and her knee's brushed against the side of my legs. Draping an arm over the back of my seat she let her free hand rest dangerously close to mine.
"Where are you stuck little one?"
What? Little one? Fucking seriously? Flag on the play, unsportsmanlike conduct from the opposing team.
"The last one." I stiffly replied, immediately cringing when she placed her hand on top of mine, bringing the test where we could both see it.
The graph in fig.4.1 is one that Jaime created. Jaime is the owner of a pet grooming shop and wants to calculate how long it takes to heat up water to the perfect temperature so his employees don't have to constantly check it, increasing the efficiency of his employees. Using the graph to calculate, how long will it take to heat the water to 99 degrees? Interpret the meaning of the slope and the intercept.
"Looking at the graph what is the first thing we notice?" She stared at the side of my face as she quietly spoke. Skimming the graph I bit my lip in contemplation and I swear I heard Regina whimper.
"Jaime checks the temperature every 5 seconds..."
"And…?" And I miss you, though that's probably not the answer she's looking for.
"And the water heats up 2 degrees every time, or .4 degrees per second, oh! That's the slope."
Leaning in she gave me nudge and nodded.
"So here-" a long slender finger pointed to the graph. "We see from the last point that the water will take 65 seconds to heat up to 90 degrees. What would that equation look like?"
With a shaky hand I wrote out y=.4x+72 and suddenly it made sense.
"The intercept is (0,72) which means when the water is turned it's at 72 degrees. So he'll need to install an alarm that alerts his employees to turn the water off or to cool at 65 degrees."
From my peripheral Regina's smile beamed with pride and a smirk spread across my lips as well. I had to remind myself we are not okay, things are not back to it's homeostatic balance. The fact of the matter is we fought, we didn't make up, we haven't spoken, she let her ex move in with her that I found from him, not to mention she might be moving and with all this it should be easy not fall back in our old habits. But the energy between us is never ending, it's always popping around us, the pull is irresistible and we both, no matter the circumstance, always give in.
"If you're done with your test you may leave it at my desk."
I'm tired of this, we needed to talk and we needed to do it sooner than later. Whipping my head to face her, I blocked off the emotions swirling as Regina tried to read me.
"We need to talk." I whispered, it was harsher than I intended and a flicker of hurt crossed her eyes. However when I reached across to brush her leg with my fingers brown iris's glazed over and her breath hitched deep in her chest, proving the feelings Regina harbored for me were still there. "Please?" I finished.
"Okay." she nodded slowly. "Let me just text Warren."
SNAP.
The pencil I had been holding was now broken, it was either that or I scream my fucking head off. Since I can't do the latter…
"Emma please." Regina replied softly but I didn't want to hear the excuse she had this time. So I abruptly stood up and walked to my desk. Belle being the empath she is shot her head to me when I sat down, sensing my frustration. I just shook my head no and she understood, bringing her attention back to the test.
Students began turning in their work and as always the chatter increased as more people finished. I'm not sure how Ethan keeps ending up in a talk session with Belle and I but every time we push our desks together he takes that as an invitation to add his to the group. I'm not even kidding, he literally takes the effort to spin his desk around to add it to ours.
"So I basically made it to level 68 before the zombies became too much." Ethan admitted in a bragging manner. Like any of us care about that shit.
"Wait Ethan you play C.O.D?" asked Richie, getting up from his seat and walking over to us. Of course, I should have known Dick would prove me wrong.
"Yea?" he said but basically saying 'duh'."
"Me too. Maybe you can come over and play some time, with me, I mean not with me, but-" Richie's face flushed as a nervous hand ran through his hair.
Wait a minute. Wait just one fucking minute. Is Richie...is he asking him out?
Confused and skeptical, as he should be, Ethan raised an eyebrow then chuckled.
"No, I'll pass. I'm not falling for another one of your stupid jokes."
"Look, I'm sorry about all that stuff from before, but none of my friends like playing video games. It's just girls and cars, that stuff is cool ya know but zombies, zombies are better."
Belle and I exchanged a short glance, whimsical smiles were plastered on our faces as we turned back to the soap opera unfolding in front of us.
"I'm not sure I should trust you."
"Okay, well, how do I prove it to you?"
All of us were surprised by this response. How do I prove it to you? From Richie?
"I don't know, let me think about it." Ethan responded.
Although it was not the answer he wanted Richie nodded and a cute crooked smile spread across his face.
"Don't leave me hanging too long." He winked, actually winked, and walked off to his friends. Silence fell between the three of us. Ethan was confused, Belle was gushing, and I was fucking pumped.
"I'm gonna ask him." I said.
"Don't you dare." Belle countered.
"Ask me what?" Ethan questioned, shooting curious looks between the two of us.
I leaned forward, motioning for him to do the same.
"Dude, are you in to guys?"
Horror, shock, embarrassment? All three? They moved so quick it was hard to tell, but he shot back in his seat, fidgeting with his bowtie.
"No, of course not, I just-"
"It's okay if you are." Belle coaxed, reaching across to place her hand on his table. "Everybody's a little gay nowadays anyway." she smiled and he seemed to relax, dropping his hands to his lap and letting his shoulders fall.
"I honestly don't know."
"And that's okay too." she reassured.
Ethan smiled back and shook his head. He propped his head on his palm, gazing at both of us intently.
"Why have we never hung out before?"
Shrugging my shoulders, I sent him a playful smirk.
"Because you're annoying." I teased.
"And you're an ass." he joked.
"How about this..." Belle interjected. "Tomorrow come sit with us at lunch, we always have room for more."
He agreed instantly and soon it was easy for the three of us to talk. Ethan wasn't an asshole smarty pants, he was just misunderstood. Sucks it took me so long to figure that out. As we talked Regina's laugh would make it's presence known, calling for my attention. I was able to ignore it, that is until she stood up and again, placed herself next to my desk.
"Tonight read chapters 10.2 through 10.6. Class dismissed." she said with a smile. Ethan rotated his desk as Belle and I dragged ours in line with the rows we were in.
"You guys want to hang out after school?" Ethan proposed, slinging his backpack over his shoulder.
"I can't, plans." I replied. He nodded as Belle eyed me closely.
"I'm free." she said. "Emma, I'll call you later." My best friend sternly replied and I know if I didn't answer hell would be raised.
"Sir yes sir."
"Hardy-har. You're so funny."
We could only tease and joke for so long before it was just the four of us left. Regina was leaning against her desk, legs were crossed with her hands laying flat behind her as she patiently waited for me to be done. Saying goodbye was easy, watching them walk away was tough, hearing the door close was suffocating.
Regina brushed passed me, heading for the door. The sound of the lock clicking shut weighed heavy, giving me little time to think about where I wanted to be when we started talking. I opted to lift myself on the desk, swinging my legs off the end while clasping my hands and twirling my thumbs around one another.
She strolled to my tense state, propping herself on Ethan's desk and placed her feet on top of his chair. I brought my legs up to the desk and crossed them then shifted my body to face her. Against my will, green eyes moved to the small gap in between her legs and I bit my lip when she spread her knees apart. I looked away, getting too wrapped in memories of her toned thighs slamming over my ears as she poured her sweet liquid in my mouth.
With her palm face up, Regina swept her hand through the air as if she were saying 'go on, you wanted this talk'. And this is the shit that fucks me up, she was practically begging for us to talk during class, now it's appears to be an inconvenience for her.
"Are you and Warren together?" I asked in shaky voice, after taking a deep breath.
"Come on Emma, don't be ridiculous." she countered with slight aggravation. "Warren and I are nothing." And I really want to believe that.
"Are you taking that job in Colorado?" I pressed, moving the subject off Warren, knowing we'd be back to it again.
Regina glanced off to the wall, her body stiffened at the question.
"No."
"Does your mom know?"
Supple lips pulled inward as her jaw clenched. "I haven't found the time." I scoffed, shaking my head slowly.
"Is that the excuse you're going to use on why you haven't told me about Warren moving in with you." I finally asked, almost annoyed that it even needed to be verbalized. Regina dropped her head then turned back, bringing her hard eyes to me. She didn't seem surprised but it also didn't seem like she knew that I knew.
"I wasn't trying to hide it from you if that's what you're implying."
"You also didn't tell me about it." I closed my eyes and took a deep breath through flared nostrils, only opening them when I felt my anger wasn't going to come out in the form of vein bulging shouts. "Are you two sleeping in the same bed?"
Regina rolled her eyes dramatically, like my question was ridiculous and didn't require an answer.
"No. God Emma do you really think I would let him sleep with me?" she asked, raising her voice.
"You let him move in with you, so you can't really blame me for asking, Regina." We stared at each other with unwavering burning gazes. The air around us cackled signaling the rise of tension.
"I don't get why he is staying with you, doesn't he have family?" I questioned in a lower tone. Regina sighed and slipped off the desk, nibbling on her bottom lip as stepped in the space separating mine and Ethan's desk.
"He doesn't have family out here. It's just easier if he stays with me."
Huffing loudly, I chewed on the inside of my cheek.
"So this will give you chance to tell him about us then." I replied, hearing the edge come back, even more so when Regina threw her hands in the air then placed them behind her neck.
"Emma it's not that fucking easy. I can't just tell him about us."
"And why not?" I asked getting off the desk and taking a few steps away from her. "I haven't heard about this guy in months, all of sudden he shows up and it's like no time has passed between you." I was borderline heaving, seething with anger.
"That's how it's always been between us and I can't because you know I want to keep things between you and I under wraps."
A secret. A fucking secret. That's the whole reason we're in this mess in the first place. Because of a stupid secret.
"He asked you to move with him." I blurted out. Her reaction? Nothing. Fucking nothing.
"Yes." Regina dropped her dark eyes to the floor. "It's only natural he would want that, he doesn't know I'm with anyone-"
"Do you not get how that is exactly my point." Two fingers from each hand came up to rub my temples. "He practically fucks you with his eyes, he calls you baby, he touches you like your his, he holds you like your his, you see how this can be problematic?"
"No I don't because nothing is happening between us." She repeated, rage laced in her words from having to beat a dead horse. "I don't get what your problem-"
"My problem is your fucking ex is living with you only a few days after you got into a fight with your girlfriend. My problem is you see no problem with that. My problem is you've done nothing but defend this asshole since he stepped through the door." I immediately shot back in an icy tone. Muscles trembled under intense anger and rigid air, it was taking everything in me not to break down in front of her.
"Emma that's not true at all-"
"Oh it isn't? So it's been a figment of my imagination? Did I just make up bumping into him yesterday and listening to how great these last few days have been for you guys."
"That's not what I'm saying, it's not easy-"
"It seems pretty fucking easy to me-"
Regina's hand came down hard on my desk, a loud crack bounced off the walls effectively cutting off my rant.
"Let me fucking speak Emma!" she roared. Heavy breaths of air blew out of her nostrils as the vein running down the middle of her forehead bulged out and her eyes narrowed to slits. I opened my mouth but she tilted her head to the side, daring me to say another word. Folding my arms over my chest, I clenched my jaw and took a step back as if that would somehow save me from her livid wrath. Even with those movements Regina pursed her lips at me. Fierce and determined eyes stared at me with dominance as she took in a steady breath. "Warren has never completely gotten over me-"
"Psh, yea, no shit." I mumbled only to receive a dark glare. Constricting my arms around my body I dropped my eyes to the floor.
"As I was saying, he has never gotten over me and to be honest I have never given him a chance."
Her words gave me a sickening thought.
"Are you still in love with him?" I asked in disbelief, not giving a fuck about the repercussions.
"Damn it Emma-"
"No, answer the question." Flicking my gaze back, I watched her lips tighten at my sharp tone.
"I will always love-"
"Fuck Regina that's not what I'm asking! Stop throwing your half ass answer at me and give me the truth." I yelled, feeling the tears well up on the edge of my eyelids. Her expression stayed firm until a droplets spilled over and ran down my face. I wiped my eyes with urgency but it only seemed to create more.
Regina gasped and soon she was pressed against me, her arms wrapped around body, holding me like she has done so many times in the past. This is what I mean, the fucking roller coaster that is our relationship. I tried to push her away but she held on.
"I'm still mad at you." I coldly said.
"I know." her tone was flat and empty.
I propped my chin on her shoulder as she ran her fingers up and down my back.
"You never answered my question." Sighing, I mustered the rest of my dwindling self control and broke away from her. Confusion, hurt, and annoyance shifted over Regina's face, highlighting the stern lines in her cheek bones. "Should I take that as my answer?"
"You keep trying to box this into a yes or no thing, it's not as simple as that Emma."
Chuckling sarcastically I ran a hand through my hair and slowly nodded my head as realization sunk in.
"And you can't have your cake and eat it too." I replied harshly. The eyes in front of me darkened, my attitude was clearly getting under her skin.
"I don't want to have my cake-" A rough tug on the handle made Regina and I jump, reminding us that there is a world out there much bigger than the little tiff we're having now. A heavy knock on the door and another jiggle on the handle followed by, "Regina?!" filled the room.
This fucking guy.
Regina must've thought the same thing because she rolled her eyes while balling her hair in the palm of her hands at the sound of Warrens voice. A few seconds had passed when she finally leveled her head, squaring up with me. I can see she's trying to make a choice, answer the door or talk to me. When an apologetic look crossed her face I knew once again, Warren had won.
"I have to go." Avoiding my gaze she pursed her lips thoughtfully.
Not responding I walked around her, to my desk and grabbed my backpack. When I turned around she was right there to stop me, staring with intent. What? What could you possibly say that would make me stay? I watched Regina struggle for the right words, opening then closing her mouth. Her dark chocolate eyes were pleading, but for what I didn't know. Aside from that all she gave me was defeated silence.
Another sarcastic huff escaped through my lips before I rolled my eyes and pushed by her. I struggled with the lock hearing those god for saken heels tap against the floor, drawing near. Upon hearing the click of the lock releasing I swung open the door to see Warren's big ass frame standing in the doorway.
"Emma!" he said with a pleased tone and a remarkable smile. He held up a bag from the bakery we involuntarily met at a held it out to me. "Regina said you two had some class stuff to go over so I figured I'd pick you up another slice of banana bread while I was getting us food."
Stop. Just stop being so fucking nice.
"Thanks." my smile was forced but it got the job done. I snatched the bag harder than I meant to, gave him another smile and walked out the class just as the hair on my neck stood, recognizing Regina's proximity.
"You're welcome!" he called as I exited the hallway, taking in the much needed fresh air and allowed the tears to flow freely down my face.
A/N: Til Next Time…
Chapter for PH coming up this weekend for anyone interested!