„Help me? You? Why?" Emma had so many questions in her mind that she didn't know which one to ask first. Why her? Why Henry? What happened with the ice queen that she was now open to helping her? Emma closed the door so the noise from the hallway wouldn't disturb Henry. Her feet led her to where Regina was standing having the same expression of surprise in her face. The brunette doctor was risking everything and after seeing Emma's reaction she knew that this move was a good and successful one. If only Emma knew that the reason to help them was just as selfish as Regina always has been. She tried to come up with an explanation. She couldn't reveal her plan just yet. It was still too early.
„I want to give Henry a chance for a normal life. He somehow got under my skin. He is special," she put Henry in the role of the person who inspired her for this move. He was just a figure on the chess board, he was a part of the game she was playing with Emma. Regina's heart went back to its normal beating and her mind was clear again. She could think this through now.
„I .. I don't know what to say. Thank you seems like an understatement," Emma whispered and put her hand on Regina's shoulder to let her know how much this offer meant for her. As a mother she would do anything to give Henry a better life, good health and as much happiness and joy as he deserved. She promised to do whatever it took to make this happen if it meant sacrificing everything she has ever dreamt about. Her happiness wouldn't exist if her son was sick, her life would mean nothing if she didn't try her best to save Henry.
„Don't say anything. I will give you the money for Henry's surgery and you will do something for me in return," Regina offered and smiled. She felt victory and according to Emma's facial expression she knew that Emma will accept her offer. Her smile widened not because she was happy that she will get a chance to save some kid but because there was nothing that could stop her from getting what she wanted.
„I really appreciate your help. As soon as I get a good job, I will pay you back, I promise," Emma was extremely happy. The blond woman closed the gap between them and carefully hugged the brunette. Regina's inner voice started screaming and giving orders to push Emma away from her but her heart felt differently. She felt great when Emma's body pressed against hers, when her blond hair brushed her cheek, when her hands moved around her neck and squeezed her. Emma was slowly getting under her skin and Regina wasn't sure if she should allow this or now.
She was supposed to be the boss here, not Emma. On the other side of the hug Emma couldn't believe how lucky she was that she met Regina. On the other hand she couldn't distinguish if Regina's intentions were pure or if there was hidden agenda in her behaviour.
„I don't want you to pay me back," Regina said and few seconds and a push later she hated herself for saying it. Emma pulled away from Regina, shock apparent in her face.
„Are you kidding me? This is not an option! I will pay you back!" Emma screamed and when she realized that probably half of the hospital heard her she put her hand over her mouth and remained silent for a few moments.
„I am serious. I would rather ask you for a favour. You will accompany me to a party as my plus one," Regina decided to play some of her cards. She wasn't interested in Emma's money. She was interested in her. The brunette couldn't come up with a better way of letting Emma know. The blond woman cleared her throat while processing what she has just heard. Was Regina actually buying her?
„I am not sure I understand. You want to pay me for being your date?" Emma asked. She preferred honesty and she believed that Regina would be honest too.
„Yes," the doctor answered and Emma exhaled deeply. She was really close to saying yes and then she forced her words back into her mouth. Going on a date with someone wasn't anything illegal or bad but doing it for money was a little bit too much for her. She would do it for Henry so he could get his treatment. Considering what was the reason why she would do could take away some of the weight of her shoulders.
„Will you be my date?" Regina asked again. She couldn't stand the silence. She wasn't patient and her ears desired Emma's answer.
„Yes, I will," Emma finally said and Regina put her hands together. This went well, she thought and gave Emma another smile.
„The party is for doctors and everyone can bring their dates. It's on Friday. Be ready and get yourself some propper clothes," Regina said eyeing Emma from the top to the bottom admiring how well she looked in the tight jeans and the red leather jacket. Yes, she looked smoking hot but these clothes were not appropriate for a ball. Then she turned on her heals and walked away already thinking about what will she wear for the party. Emma leaned against the wall and looked down as if her shoes were the most interesting thing. She got herself a date but for what price? Could she be so easily bought? She then looked through the little window in the door to the IC unit. She saw her son sleeping in one of the beds and she knew why she let Regina buy her. This was worth the pain she felt in her heart. Henry was worth the sacrifice. The blond woman went through the door of the ICU determined to stay strong, strong for her son.
TBC
