Chapter 1
Regina I
It was mid September. The first signs of fall hung in the air as the crisp morning chill clung to her. She adjusted her coat more firmly around herself as the wind blew harder, tossing her short, dark hair to one side. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she placed a single red rose atop the gravestone. She kissed her gloved hand and touched it to the gray marble. Twenty-eight was too young to be a widow. Now she stood there at thirty-two unable to move on. She knew Daniel would want her to, but she couldn't.
Every part of her longed to see him again, but that was impossible. She missed his laugh, his smile, his warmth, and his lips on hers. His charm and his grace. All she had left of him were some photos, videos, and clothing that she wrapped in plastic to retain the smell of him. Though his scent had faded away over the years she hoped her memories never would. As painful as the loss was, she wanted to remember the good, the love. She stood there for a while talking to him, updating him on her life and how she was doing. Not much had changed since her last visit other than that she needed help again. She wondered if he could hear her. She hoped so.
Her grief never fully went away; she just made more room for it in her heart. She tried to date, but no one could ever measure up to him. Though her mother hadn't approved of him, she hadn't cared. She fell in love with Daniel because he had all the qualities that she desperately wanted in a partner. His sweet, kind and gentle nature had complemented her somewhat brisk and curt demeanor. She closed her eyes and stood there in silence for a while longer, her arms wrapped around herself. With one last look, after a deep, fortifying breath, she finally departed.
She climbed into her Mercedes and headed to Granny's Diner for coffee and breakfast. Most vehicles around town were trucks, so her luxury SUV stood out in the parking lots most of the time. She pulled up and got out. The bell over the door rang as she entered. The place was half full, unusual for a Saturday morning. She went to the counter where she usually sat. The owner, Eugenia Lucas, aka Granny, came to take her order. Though the older woman really didn't need to as Regina had been ordering the same thing for years now: Daniel's favorite.
"Good morning, Ms. Mills, what'll it be today?" asked Granny.
"Good morning, Eugenia. Black coffee to start, scrambled eggs, sausages, and toast, please," she said.
"Coming right up," Granny responded while walking away to give the cook the order.
Her black coffee was delivered to her by the main server, Ruby, Granny's granddaughter. "Thank you, Ms. Lucas," she said as she wrapped her hands around the hot mug. The doorbell rang again, but Regina didn't turn around to see who had entered.
Ruby said, "You're welcome, Regina," and turned to face the new patron, "Hey, Emma, what can I get you?"
"Morning, Ruby. Uh, hot cocoa with cinnamon and a coffee with cinnamon and sugar, please, with cream too. Can we have a few minutes to look over the menu?" the woman, Emma, asked as they sat at the counter.
"Sure thing. Those drinks'll be out in a jiff," Ruby smiled at her.
Regina sipped her black coffee and wished this day would just be over with. She wasn't good with the anniversary, but it was important to keep to her routines so as not to get derailed in grief. Ruby came back with her order, she thanked her, and began to lightly butter the toast then took a dainty bite.
"Mom, may I get chocolate chip pancakes?" a little boy, probably age nine or ten by the sound of it, asked the woman, Emma. They had sat down a seat away from Regina's left, with the boy, Emma's son apparently, on the left side of his mother.
"Hmm, yeah kid, that's fine. Hey, since I know you can't finish them all and I'm not all that hungry, I'll share with you," she said. Emma's tone seemed strained for the latter sentence and then Regina distinctly heard a grumble from the young woman's stomach and knew what that strain indicated: the woman had lied. Regina kept her focus on her breakfast, as much as she might want to look over now, she didn't want to be rude.
Granny came back with Emma's and the boy's drinks. Emma asked, "Hey, Granny, I know this is an odd request, but you pretty much know everyone in town, and, as you know, I'm still fairly new, so are there any ranches open to take on new hands?"
"And what happened to working for the Lancasters?" Granny asked as she braced her hands on the countertop to look at Emma inquisitively. She was positioned just in front of the empty space between Regina and Emma.
Regina heard Emma's position shift. She imagined the woman was angling herself to look more directly at the older woman. Although Emma lowered her voice to a whisper, Regina overheard her, "I can't prove it, but I know they fired me because they found out I'm gay."
At this, Regina couldn't help herself, she turned just enough to look at the woman seated close by. She was right, the woman had angled herself toward Granny and therefore Regina got a full view of her. Emma was beautiful, blonde with high cheekbones, a dimpled chin, pink lips, fit body, bright blue eyes. She was wearing a red Carhartt jacket and Levi's 501 jeans with well-worn Ariat roper boots that had seen better days. Emma slid further forward to the edge of her seat.
Regina caught a glimpse of Emma's son, dark-haired and cute as a button. He was wearing a black Carhartt jacket, a gray and red striped scarf, jeans, and little black boots and sipping his hot cocoa, holding his mug with both hands. They were two cute peas in an adorable pod, Regina thought.
Granny's angered response refocused Regina's attention, "I'm going to have a word with them over this. How dare they? It is none of their business who you date."
The blonde sighed, "I'm pretty sure it wouldn't do any good, they have their reasons, however unreasonable, for not wanting someone like me working for them."
Granny took a deep breath and exhaled. Regina knew her well enough to know that meant Eugenia recognized the blonde was right, confronting people like the Lancasters wouldn't change anything. Granny continued, "I don't know of anyone, but I can ask around for you and give you a call, just leave me your number."
"Thanks, Granny, that means the world to me. Henry and I are out of a place now with nowhere to go either, and I just really need a job," she said so quietly Regina almost missed it. Then Emma spoke up and added more brightly, "We'll be sharing the chocolate chip pancakes, please." Granny softened as even Regina heard the woman's stomach grumbling distinctly from two seats over.
Granny eyed her, Emma obviously didn't want her son, Henry, to know they were struggling. "Go on, order something for yourself to celebrate your liberation from the Lancasters," then added softly, "It's on the house," Granny winked.
"Really?" Emma looked at Granny unsure, but Eugenia was unwavering. "Thank you," Emma breathed quietly, then she beamed, "I'll have a bear claw and a deluxe breakfast, please."
"And how would you like your eggs?" asked Granny with a smile.
"Over easy," Emma responded, practically wriggling in her seat with excitement. The woman clearly loved food.
"Coming right up," Granny chuckled at the young woman. Regina hid a smile behind her coffee as well. "And don't you worry, I'll find someone for you soon," said Granny confidently.
"You are wonderful, thank you, Granny," Emma exclaimed.
"If we as a community can't take care of a single mother and her boy, then there's something seriously wrong with society," said Granny with another wink and she turned around to place the order.
Regina continued to eat her breakfast slowly, enjoying Daniel's favorite meal in tribute as always, but her thoughts strayed to the woman beside her. She contemplated Emma's situation. Her heart went out to the woman and boy next to her and the injustice they were suffering.
Emma and Henry's breakfast arrived quickly. They gobbled it up fast and grabbed a to-go box for the pancakes for Henry later. Emma was right that he wouldn't finish them all on his own; there had been three originally and then almost half that was leftover.
Regina thought the leftovers would be plenty for a boy his size to enjoy again, but they wouldn't have been nearly enough to satisfy Emma's hunger as she had eaten a bear claw and the two eggs over easy, four pieces of toast, three pieces of bacon, and serving of hash browns that composed a deluxe breakfast.
Regina wondered how many meals the woman had skipped in favor of caring for her son.
When Emma and her son got up to leave, the blonde wrote her number on her receipt and then reached for her wallet, but Granny waved her off as she snagged the receipt from Emma's grasp. Granny had clearly decided their entire breakfast would be on the house, probably from the time she had told Emma to put the order in.
Regina half-smiled, it was just like Eugenia. The young woman probably wouldn't have ordered anything if Granny hadn't suggested such.
Emma wasn't going to argue given that Henry was watching the encounter—and she most likely needed the money—but she did put five dollars in the tip jar and Granny wasn't going to deny her that. The young woman nodded toward Granny as she put her arm around her son, "Alright, kid, time to head out."
With one hand holding his to-go box, the boy waved with his other, "Thanks! Bye, Granny! Bye, Ruby," he said. The doorbell rang as they exited.
Regina had finished her meal but elected to stay to enjoy more coffee. Granny came by to fill her cup again. "So, that woman a little while ago, Emma?" Regina began.
Granny looked at her, eyes narrowing, "Yes, what about her?"
"It just so happens, I'm looking for a ranch hand," she stated.
"I thought you had plenty of help," Granny said.
"I lost a hand a few weeks ago," Regina sighed, leaning back in her seat.
"Should I call it fate that you overheard that young lady asking for a job you're looking to hire for?" Granny asked.
Regina looked up at the older woman, raising her brow, thinking perhaps it was fate. She had poured her woes out to Daniel hoping he could hear her. She lowered her brow and smiled at the thought that he may have intervened, "Yes, Eugenia, I think you may." Regina refocused, "So, will you vouch for her?"
"I know her to be a hard worker and never heard any complaints," said Granny.
"Good to know. That's exactly what I need."
Granny said, "Ms. Mills, this will mean the world to her considering her circumstances right now. Awful business as I'm sure you heard."
"Hmm, yes I did, awful business indeed," she procured a business card from her purse, "Give her a call, and here's my number. Pass it along, please. Have her call me about the details of the position." Regina indicated her coffee, "I'll take a cup to-go, if you would be so kind."
Granny accepted the card, "Of course, Ms. Mills."
She paid Granny and tipped well. Regina always tipped well, especially for locally owned businesses. She grabbed her to-go cup and went to her car. The rest of the morning was spent driving around town running errands.
On her way home, she got stuck behind a tractor moving at a snail's pace. It was a common enough occurrence, but still frustrating. When Regina finally arrived home, she entered and set her purse aside, hanging up her coat.
Then her phone was ringing. Regina picked it up as she sat down on her couch.
"Hello?" she said.
"Hi, is this Regina Mills?" a female voice asked.
"Yes, it is," Regina responded, "May I ask who's calling?"
"Hi, yes, I'm Emma Swan. Granny, from the diner, gave me your number, well your card, to call regarding a ranch hand position," Emma said and took a breath. "Is it still open?" she asked with a hesitant tone.
"The position is open. If you're available this afternoon, you may drop by with a copy of your resume. I will show you the place and we'll see if it's something you can handle," Regina checked her watch, it read 11:17 AM, "How does 1 o'clock sound?" she asked smoothly.
"That sounds great," Emma sounded relieved, "Is this your address on the card?"
"Yes, it is," Regina verified, "Just follow the driveway up and park anywhere by the Mercedes, but please stay off the grass near the main house," she directed.
"Sure thing," Emma said. "I look forward to it. Thank you."
"See you shortly, Miss Swan. Goodbye."
"Bye," Emma ended the call.
Regina went upstairs to change out of her formal attire. She slipped into her Wrangler jeans, button-up ranch shirt, and tall English riding boots. She returned downstairs, opened her laptop, and made a few phone calls while waiting for the blonde to arrive. Almost two hours later, she heard the tell-tale signs of an engine growing louder as it grew closer until it finally ceased.
Regina shut her laptop and approached her front door as she listened to a car door shut, and then another. She peered around the curtain to see two figures emerge from a dilapidated blue truck. Emma and her boy, Regina thought with a half-smile.
The brunette watched as Emma slung her left arm around her son's shoulders pulling him close to her as they walked across the driveway. Then Emma's right hand brought a light-colored Cattleman's hat to her head. Regina's breath caught; she hadn't expected the hat, Emma didn't have it at the diner. Regina hesitated a moment before she opened the door to greet them.
Emma stood next to Henry. He held onto a piece of paper with both hands careful not to crush it. The mother's left arm was still wrapped around her son's shoulders as she said, "Hi, I'm Emma Swan," extending her right hand to shake Regina's, "and this," Emma's hand landed on the boy's head, "is my son, Henry."
Henry extended the paper to Regina with both hands and smiled, "Pleased to meet you, Miss."
Regina accepted the paper and smiled back at the young man, discreetly releasing a breath she hadn't realized she had been holding. "Pleased to meet you both as well," Regina found herself smiling genuinely. "I'm Ms. Regina Mills. Welcome to Morningstar Ranch. Please, come in," she stood aside so the mother and son duo could enter.
Regina shut the door behind them. "Miss Swan, if it's alright with you, you and I will sit down in the dining room and Henry may pass the time in the living room with Disney Plus," Regina suggested as she saw Henry's smile light up. He looked at his mother hopefully.
Emma smiled back at him. "That sounds perfect, Ms. Mills," the blonde stated as she took her hat off and held onto it.
"Wonderful, right this way," Regina led the way to the living room. "The remote is on the side table there," she indicated to Henry's right.
Henry plopped down on the couch and grabbed the remote, holding it out to her expectantly. Regina looked to Emma, who smiled humbly and gave a slight nod for her to proceed.
Regina showed Henry how to use the remote and app, then passed him the remote stating, "If you need a drink or snack you are welcome to help yourself. The kitchen is just through there," she gestured to her left, "and the facilities are down this hall first door on the right. Your mother and I will be in the dining room, first door on the left." The young man met her eyes attentively while she spoke. "All set?" Regina inquired.
"Yes, thank you very much, Ms. Mills," Henry affirmed. He pulled up Star Wars but didn't start it yet. He unwrapped his scarf and shrugged out of his jacket laying them next to him on the couch.
"Miss Swan, all set, also?" the brunette verified.
Emma nodded then said, "Henry, be a good boy," ruffling his hair.
"I'm always a good boy," he said with a crooked smile.
"This way, please," Regina walked toward the dining room. "Is there anything you would like to drink or eat?"
"No, thank you, we just had lunch," Emma said.
Regina took her seat at the head of the table and indicated for Emma to sit to her right. Regina read the resume and was impressed with how much experience Emma had on ranches.
"Well, I find your experience impressive, to say the least," Regina started. "Now, in the interest of full disclosure, I overheard what was said at Granny's diner this morning. I was the woman seated to your right two seats down." Emma shifted a bit in her seat, and Regina continued, "Is that the truth of why the Lancasters let you go?"
The blonde turned her hat over in her hands, looking down at it, picking off imaginary lint. "Well, the thing is, I don't have any proof," she sounded exasperated. "But, I can promise you, Ms. Mills," she met Regina's eyes, "I was doing the job. Everything that was expected of me. Then a few days ago, Mrs. Lancaster came up with this look on her face, which I've seen enough times to know what it meant. The thing is she never really liked that I was a ranch hand, believed a single mother—well, shouldn't be single—but also that I should be doing something more 'ladylike.' But she never gave me too much grief about it and seemed to respect my work. Anyhow, she approached with some very clear hate and disgust vibes and I was suddenly released with no explanation, just her telling me they no longer needed my services. Then she kicked us out, too, with zero warning. So, yeah, I think they let me go because they found out. So we've been living out of my truck until I secure another job," Emma finished.
"That is absolutely horrendous. I am so sorry that happened to you and for what it's worth, I believe you," Regina stated, appalled at the reality of Emma's situation. Even if Emma had been derelict in her duties, as a business owner and fellow human being, Regina would never put someone out into homelessness.
She looked at Emma's resume again; she absolutely could not fathom how someone would let such a skilled worker go without cause, let alone for prejudicial reasons. Regina made her decision easily, "As you know, I am looking for a ranch hand. A few weeks ago, my hand left to take care of their elderly parents, which I completely understand, but I have a rather large property to look after and it's left me in a bind. Truth be told, I have little experience with the business and even less running the day-to-day aspects."
The blonde widened her eyes at Regina incredulously, "You have a ranch, and you don't know how to run it?"
"It was left to me with ranch hands already employed and handling the work. I've only had to concern myself with the employee and profit turnovers while I run my own separate business from home. But, to answer your question, no, I do not know how to run the ranch which, I'd say, is lucky," Regina half-smiled and side-eyed Emma, "for you. The lodging for the full-time ranch hand is the guest house: a three-bedroom, two-bath house, about 1,200 square feet. Full kitchen, of course. Furnished. Room and board are covered so long as the work gets done. So, are you interested?"
Emma's eyebrows shot up, "You mean the foreman's house?" Regina nodded. Emma smiled brightly, "Wow, I mean, yes, I am definitely interested. The house is a big step up from the place we had at the Lancasters' which was one bedroom shared between Henry and me. I'll have to look at the property to see what needs to be done and how it works, being the foreman is also a big step up from what the Lancasters had me on for. But nothing I can't handle. So, are you up for a tour, Ms. Mills?"
Regina could barely contain her disgust at the Lancasters. They were such cheap people, providing a single bedroom for their workers with children. Regina had no doubt that Emma isn't the only worker to experience such harsh living conditions. She may not know how to run a ranch, but she knew how not to run a business. Regina pushed them out of her mind and responded to Emma, "Absolutely, I was just about to suggest one myself."
"You don't have to worry about Henry. He's well-mannered and I bet totally engrossed in Star Wars right now," Emma stated.
"Very well," Regina found herself smiling at the mental image. "Let's go to the equipment barn first to select a Gator and then we'll head out."
"Oh, I love those. Some ranch work is just easier not on horseback. Lead the way," Emma said brightly.
They let Henry know they were heading out, then exited and walked down a driveway at the side of the house some distance to one of the six buildings on the property. It's one of the average-sized barns in fairly good condition. Regina opened the doors and Emma's eyes lit up, the room was packed full of equipment: four-wheelers, a couple of full-size four-seat Gators, a couple of regular size two-seat Gators, and some empty spots that indicated there were more out in operation or possibly in the shop for maintenance, as well as a large tractor.
They climbed into one of the Gators. Regina started it and drove slowly out of the barn. Regina began, "As I said, I don't know much about running a ranch. I can only tell you what was expected according to the hand we lost. So, I'll tell you what I know as it comes up. All of our daily use vehicles like this one are expected to be kept in usable condition. The tanks filled, tires checked, and so on. I'm sure you know better than I that if there is an emergency all of these need to be able to roll out at a moment's notice. You would be in charge of distributing directives to the other hands regarding upkeep and ensuring that the tasks are accomplished."
Emma nodded, "Yes, you're absolutely right about staying prepared, and I understand."
They were quiet for a bit. As Regina drove, she noticed Emma now held her business card. Emma read, "CEO Healthcare Solutions. That's the business you operate from home, right? So, what is it you do?"
"Oh," Regina was surprised by the question but answered easily, "Yes, that's right. I employ a relatively moderate-sized company within a niche industry. It's entirely online. We match healthcare executives to healthcare agencies nationwide in search of C-suite-level talent—CEOs, CFOs, and such—in the palliative care sector. Very niche, as I said, but the demand is high. It's complicated, but that's essentially what it is."
"Wow, that's cool. Has nothing to do with ranching though," Emma observed .
"Absolutely nothing, no," Regina confirmed. Sensing the direction Emma was getting at she added, "My late husband was the rancher and cowboy."
"I'm sorry for your loss," Emma said somberly. "I take it you're not from around here; where are you from?"
"Thank you. And shouldn't I be asking you the questions?" Regina redirected.
"Yes, but I think it's a two-way street," Emma smiled confidently.
"Hmm," a thoughtful hum as Regina considered her for a moment, "Quite right. I am from California."
"How did you end up in Wyoming of all places," Emma asked.
"I attended college at University of California, Berkeley, where I met my husband, Daniel. He's from here. He graduated top of his class in high school, was a star football player and got a full ride to Berkeley to study Ecosystem Management and Forestry. I studied Ancient Greek and Roman Studies as an Undergraduate and went to Business School. We both went on to get our MBAs. For a well-educated man, he was also a simple man. Just wanted us to be happy and take care of animals, and the land. He'd worked this ranch with his father when he was a boy, so, this is the ranch we bought after we graduated. He fully supported my startup company which eventually took off. We had a good life," she said with a sad smile.
"If you don't mind my asking, what happened to him?" Emma inquired gently. Regina slowed to turn right onto the gravel driveway toward the cattle barn, she stayed at a slow pace.
"Well, it was four years ago, today actually," Regina began. "There were financial troubles for the ranches in the area regarding corruption in the system, so all of the ranchers were understandably strained," her eyes grew distant at the memory, and she tried not to let it consume her. She focused on the driveway in front of her. "Daniel had gone out to clear his head. He took a new horse he was just breaking in. The horse threw him off. He broke his neck, dying instantly," Regina finished as she felt her throat thickening with emotion, she slowed the Gator to a stop and closed her eyes to the tears that threatened to spill over.
She took a deep breath to compose herself forcing those memories and emotions back while squeezing the wheel with her hands to ground herself in the present. Regina opened her eyes and smiled sadly at Emma and continued, "The doctors are certain he didn't suffer, so I'm grateful for that."
They sat in silence for a moment. "I'm so sorry," Emma's voice was gentle and earnest. "Anniversaries are tough," she added in understanding.
Regina nodded, and chuckled a little wetly, "Yeah, they are." She resumed driving at a steady pace.
"But you're still here. You didn't go back to California," Emma inquired.
"I thought about it, but this is my home now. I like to ride, see the animals, and go to places we used to go. We'd built a life here, together, but I also built a life for myself here. Both my parents have passed and my only family is a half-sister with whom I rarely speak." They pulled up to the cattle barn and got out of the vehicle.
"This is the largest barn on the property, except for the shop for the semis and long haul trailers. This facility houses the cattle and a few donkeys. But it's mostly cattle so we call it the cattle barn. As far as I know the animals in here are those that need special attention either due to illness or injury or some other chore they were pulled aside for."
Regina unlocked the door and they entered. Emma glanced around. It was a large, high-end facility. "How many ranch hands do you have now?" Emma asked, her eyes narrowed in what Regina could ascertain as contemplation. The blonde must have seen something that Regina's lack of expertise could not.
"Three, all part time. A day worker, and two other hands. The day worker's name is Jefferson, he usually arrives before sun up to feed the animals then heads out until the evening when he feeds them again," Regina said as she walked over to a nearby cow and petted it. It was affectionate with her touch, she melted a little.
Then her demeanor flipped back to business, "Jefferson tells me there's a lot to do with the animals. The other ranch hands, Killian and Robin primarily deal in the maintenance and equipment upkeep, not Jefferson. They mentioned some tractors and other vehicles that require their attention, among other things," Regina sighed. "All three of them have a system that they devised for how they tend to the animals. I'm not up to speed on all the details, as that's their purview. I like to see that things are running smoothly, and the animals are cared for. Things aren't as smooth as they were before the foreman's departure, which is to be expected, I suppose."
"Yeah, that's understandable, the foreman would have picked up a lot of that slack, I'm sure. And kept them on task as well," Emma said looking around. "This is a nice housing unit. I'll have to talk with Jefferson and the others about the details of the operations. Do you know how many cattle you have?" Emma asked.
"They should be able to get you the information you need. As to the number of cattle, it's on the order of two-hundred-fifty. I believe most are grazing currently," Regina stated.
"So, uh, are you selling any off?" Emma queried.
Regina was forthright, "I don't know anything about it."
"We'll have to rectify that. That bit is very important," Emma insisted.
Regina nodded, "As I said, I run a business, but also own a ranch. I don't know. It was part of our dream together, so I kept on living it. But you're right, I do need to become more familiar with the day-to-day operations. Let's head to the stables now," Regina directed them back to the vehicle and drove them to the nearby stables.
They went inside the stables and there were about ten horses in the dozen stalls, five on each side. Regina walked toward the second stall on the left. "This," she indicated to a beautiful milk chocolate brown steed, "is Rocinante. He's my oldest and most favorite." The horse nodded his head at Regina, shaking his black mane and nuzzling closer to her. "My sweet boy," she chuckled and gave him affectionate pats on his neck and face.
"He's beautiful. They're all beautiful," Emma noted looking around.
"Yeah, they are, aren't they?" Regina sighed happily. "I do know more about horses than cattle. I was raised riding them for competitions," Regina said while she fed Rocinante some treats from a nearby bag which he gladly accepted. "You'll make the schedule, and include yourself in there, for who will muck the stalls, feed them, and so on. According to your resume, I'm sure you know the details of handling horses," Regina stated.
"Wow, you rode competitively, very cool," Emma mused nodded approvingly. Regina noticed the blonde glancing at the back of Rocinante's stall which was lined with some images, ribbons and plaques of his and Regina's competition days. "And I sure do know about horses. I love to ride. There's nothing like being on horseback, especially wrangling cattle. I know there are newer methods using vehicles, but I'm old school like that," Emma stated proudly. "It's what I was taught and I'm also an old-fashioned cowgirl at heart," she added, smiling and tipping her light-colored Cattleman hat.
Regina couldn't help the genuine smile that spread at the blonde and the charming tip of her hat.
Regina was surprised how easily she smiled as she noted the similarity of the hat to the one Daniel wore, which made her heart flip when she first saw it this afternoon. But when Emma's head tilted back up and her green eyes sparkled with her smile, Regina thought warmly that Daniel was old-fashioned that way, too. For the first time, Regina's heart didn't hurt for her loss but instead felt like she gained part of herself back.
"I'm sure you and the others will all get along fine. They ride horseback, as well. Each of them works with two horses a piece. Their steady mounts and then each were assigned one of Rocinante's babies over the years," Regina smiled fondly at the three fully grown horses in the rest of the line on the left side of the stables. "They aren't exactly babies anymore, but I can't help myself. You will be able to choose from the remaining horses who you want to work with. Usually the horses are out roaming around this time, but I suppose with the upset in the balance of the schedule the work is off track," she said, narrowing her eyes a bit. "Now let's tour the property as a whole. This may take a while as it's 10,000 acres."
"Holy shit," the blonde's eyes widened as she exclaimed, then her cheeks blushed, "I mean, that's a lot for 250 head of cattle."
Regina's eyes sparkled in amusement at the exclamation. Then the brunette shrugged, "We used to have more but downsized since Daniel passed."
Regina bid Rocinante a good day and they shut the door behind them. Once seated back in the Gator, Regina took them down the trails following the fencing to the furthest reaches of Morningstar. The grazing cattle were spread out sporadically here and there in the field they passed. It made for a peaceful image. Emma's voice pulled Regina from her thoughts, "I've noticed the trails need repairs and definitely the fencing in some areas," observed Emma.
"And I suspect you're up to the challenge," Regina raised her brow inquisitively. Emma nodded as she continued to analyze the property. The blonde didn't appear daunted, but determined. Regina felt hopeful.
Emma spoke again, "It looks to be the original fencing, or somewhere close. I'd estimate probably twenty years or so."
"You're right. We matched what we added to the original. What we've just driven past is all part of the original property and therefore the oldest fence line. It surrounds roughly three of the fields, I believe. But it may be more. I know it was something around nine or more miles of original fence line. She stopped and parked. She looked at the mountains in the distance. "This is the overlook. I love the view from here. Rocinante and I often ride up and just enjoy the view, taking in the fresh air," Regina breathed in.
Emma joined her. "It is an incredible view. I'm pretty sure you've got the nicest place in Sheridan, maybe the whole county. This is way better than the Lancasters, or even the Yorks," the hand assured.
"Yes, I agree," Regina concurred with a proud smile. "We chose this piece of land specifically for the view and expanse of it. And it's where Daniel worked as a child, so of course, it held sentimental value. No matter the cost, we wanted it."
"It must have cost a fortune," commented Emma absentmindedly while she continued to take in the view.
Regina pursed her lips. She didn't like talking about money with new people, or any people, for that matter. Still, she supposed it was her fault for bringing it up. It also appeared the blonde hadn't meant anything judgemental by her comment. So, Regina relented with a bit of a sigh, "Well, let's just say it was a reasonable price after the Great Recession, and well worth the deal."
"I bet it's one investment you're glad you made, considering land prices out here now. But it's also obvious that you care more about the land and the life here than the monetary value. Like you said, 'sentimental,'" Emma said with kindness and appreciation.
Regina liked knowing that the woman was listening to her and seemed to understand her motivations. "I appreciate that, and it is true. The investment in the land has been a good one, but moreover I'm happy with what I do here. It's a nice town and investing in Sheridan and being a part of the community has made me the most glad. Sheridan is quite different from California. It's quieter, has less crime, and wide open spaces. The only thing I don't like is the lack of trees, diversity in general, and the cold winters. I often travel during winter, but this season I don't have any plans, so I expect I'll be holed up for warmth," Regina said with a laugh.
Emma smiled, "Glad to hear Sheridan is worth investing in. Henry and I haven't been here for very long, but I've known some of the people in town for quite a while, thanks to the work I do and the people, the good ones mostly, they really make this place something special. As for winter, it's shaping up to be a cold one, that's for sure."
They sat in silence and took in the view for a bit longer. Then Regina said, "Alright, well, let's head back and discuss some more of the details of your employment. I assume you're going to take the job. I mean, I'd appreciate it if you'd take the job. I think you're perfect for it." She turned the vehicle around and drove back toward the main house.
"Yeah, of course, I want it. This opportunity is perfect for me and Henry. I'd be an idiot not to take it," Emma said, beaming. Then she added, "And I'm no idiot."
"I'm very happy to hear that, Miss Swan," Regina smiled. "So, I believe it's my turn to inquire about you. Where are you from?"
Regina saw as Emma wrung her hands a bit at this question but began to answer, "Well, I didn't have a great start in life. I was orphaned when I was two years old. My parents were in a car crash. So, I went into foster care here in Wyoming, and bounced around from home to home for eight years. I've been everywhere in the state. At age ten, finally, a great family adopted me. I've been to some nearby states for work mostly and some family vacations, but otherwise I'm a Wyoming girl."
Regina couldn't help feeling sorry for the blonde, even more so than she had, though she tried not to show it. "That sounds rough. I'm sorry you had to go through that," she said gently.
"Thank you. And it's alright, honestly, I found the perfect parents who love me and support me one hundred percent: Mary Margaret and David Nolan. When they adopted me they let me keep my last name, since it's the only thing I have left of my birth parents," Emma mentioned.
"They sound wonderful. Letting you keep your name was very kind of them," Regina said. "So, how did you get into ranching?"
"My dad, David. He was a rancher when I was adopted, mostly a sheep herder but he had cattle, too. And a horse, of course. Learned everything I know from him. He's a really great guy. They live about three hours away. I try to get us out to see them as often as possible. They love Henry to death," Emma's smile widened at the thoughts of her family. Regina couldn't help but smile too.
"He seems to be quite the sweet boy," Regina recalled her brief interactions with the polite and attentive young man.
"Yeah, I really lucked out. Henry's amazing," Emma agreed.
Regina parked the vehicle back into the barn where they'd begun and they walked back to the house. "Let's please take our boots off, since we were walking in the dirt," Regina indicated to a bench to the side of the entrance. Emma did as she was asked, slipping her boots off to reveal red wool socks. "Is red your favorite color?" Regina asked, and the blonde raised her head surprised at the question. Regina pointed to the red socks and the red jacket.
"Oh, yeah," Emma laughed, "I like the color on me. Goes well with my blonde hair."
Regina smiled as she took off her English-style boots and set them to the side revealing her feet clad in red socks as well. Emma looked at her. "What?," Regina asked innocently, "I find it suits me, too." The two women kept smiling as they returned to their earlier seats at the dining room table. "So, Miss Swan, here's the deal: as I said, room and board will be provided. Your starting pay will be $1,000 a month. Fair enough?" Regina offered.
Emma opened her mouth and closed it, "Yeah, that's fair. For starting pay."
"Great. There are opportunities for pay raises, of course. If I like your performance and work ethic, I will raise your salary," Regina explained.
"Sounds fair," said Emma. "Do you know, how's the nearest school for Henry?"
"I've heard it's a good school. I know the classroom sizes are small, so he'll learn," Regina said.
"That's great!" Emma said excitedly, "Small classes are always best for kids."
Regina smiled. "Okay, so I'll draw up your contract and print it off for you to sign. You're going to be 1099 so you'll have to pay your own taxes," Regina's tone was all business.
"I'm used to that, so it's fine with me. While you do that, do you mind if I check on Henry," Emma asked.
"No, of course, please go see him. I'll find you when it's ready, and as I said earlier you are both welcome to help yourselves to anything in the kitchen," Regina waved Emma off as she began to type on her laptop. Regina could hear the sounds of conversation, the refrigerator opening and closing, and laughter. She quite enjoyed it. When Regina finished, she printed it out and set it on the dining table. She went out to the kitchen to grab Emma for her signature and found the mother and son enjoying sandwiches. Regina was very pleased that they found themselves something they liked, then noticed a third plate.
Henry spoke, "Hi, Ms. Mills, we made you a sandwich, too. Will you join us?" he asked hopefully.
She looked at Emma, surprised, "Thank you, um," Regina really didn't know what to say.
Emma smiled warmly, "We figured it was a pretty safe bet that you'd like all this stuff seeing as it was in your fridge. And you haven't eaten anything since at least we arrived, so we also figured you'd be hungry, too."
Regina softened as she found that they were right, on both counts. She joined them for sandwiches. "Thank you," she said as she tamped down the emotions swelling in her chest. Regina wasn't used to these types of random acts of kindness. Henry filled the two women in on how much he loved Star Wars.
Henry volunteered to clean up the few dishes while Emma and Regina went to sign the paperwork. Emma nodded, and Regina showed him where the supplies were for washing and drying and they left him to it.
As they walked back into the dining room, Regina said, "I just need one more thing, your social security card and driver's license to copy." Emma pulled out her wallet and handed it to her. "Just a minute," Regina went to her photocopier in the other room and copied them. She returned them back to Emma.
Regina watched Emma pen her name on the contract and ask, "So, when can I start?"
"Tomorrow, if you'd like," Regina said.
Emma fiddled with her hat in her hands again as she tended to do when she wasn't confident, or so Regina was noticing. "I have a request. If it's okay with you," Emma hesitated, Regina stiffened slightly putting herself in CEO mode but giving a nod for her to continue. "Can we move in tonight? I don't want my boy spending another night in the truck," Emma breathed out, eyes beginning to shine with unshed tears.
Regina's heart broke at this and her posture collapsed, "Of course, you can. It's already furnished, but if you have extra things, I'll help you. I'll call my friend, Graham, to assist as well."
"Thank you, Ms. Mills," Emma said, relieved and slightly overwhelmed, "Just, thank you." Emma took a moment to gather herself. "We don't have much with us. Some stuff is in the back of the truck and the rest is in a storage unit. Shouldn't take long," Emma said.
They found Henry in the living room. "Hey, Hen, we gotta go move our stuff into our new place," Emma smiled brightly.
"I was just about to get to the part with Anakin dueling Obi-Wan Kenobi," Henry said as he paused his movie. "Ms. Mills, Mom, may I please stay and finish it, please," he begged.
Regina found him to be completely adorable and was ready to agree right away, but looked to his mother, who was looking at her and they both laughed. "Ms. Mills, would that be alright?" Emma asked.
"Of course, he may. He's been perfectly well-behaved, and there's not much help a ten-year-old will be able to provide anyway," Regina chuckled.
"Yesss! Thank you!" Henry cheered.
"You'd be surprised how well he can work when he wants to," Emma said, shaking her head at her boy's antics. "Fine, you can stay here while we unload. But you'll need to pick the room you want first." He smiled and jumped up to put his jacket and scarf on.
While Emma helped Henry get ready, Regina pulled out her phone and dialed a number, "Hello, Graham. Are you free right now?"
"Hey, Regina, for you, of course!" Graham responded.
"Okay, excellent. I need your assistance with moving my new ranch hand into the guest house," Regina stated.
"Oh, did I hear that right?" Graham teased.
"Yes, you heard right," she rolled her eyes at her friend even though he couldn't see.
"I can't wait to see this. I'll be right over," he said.
"Okay, thank you. See you soon," she hung up the phone and placed it in her pocket. Regina looked to Emma, "He'll be here in fifteen minutes."
"Great!" Emma said.
They put their boots back on and the two women and young man went out to the truck. Regina pointed out the guest house which was at the other end of the main house, set a way off but still within reasonable walking distance. Emma moved the truck closer to the guest house, careful to stay on the driveway, while Regina and Henry walked over.
Regina handed the boy the keys to the house and he ran inside while the women grabbed a few bags to carry in. They set the bags inside the entry until the Swans picked their rooms. Regina observed the two. Emma walked around the house with her eyes wide, they could hear Henry running around to check out everything. Emma said, "A king-sized bed, wow! I'm definitely taking this room."
"This one," Henry exclaimed from within the room next to Emma's. "It has its own bathroom!" Henry called out. Emma walked over to him, to check it out. The room was fully furnished with a queen sized bed, and generally was a comfortable size for a grown person to enjoy, so it was a very nice setup for a kid. Then Emma looked at Regina with her eyebrows raised.
Regina just shrugged, "I believe in treating your workers properly," she said. "Especially with the work you'll be putting into this place." Henry returned to the main house to resume his movie while the women unloaded the last bits from the truck. There wasn't much since Emma and Henry only had the one room at the Lancasters. They placed the bags on the floor of their respective rooms.
Graham arrived in his pickup truck after they were done unloading the smaller items.
"Hello, there," he addressed Emma first, "I'm Graham Humbert, nice to meet you," he said with a thick Irish accent as he extended his hand to the younger woman.
"Hi, Emma Swan," the blonde took his hand, "Is that Irish I detect?" she inquired.
He smiled, "Yes, it is, from Belfast."
"How'd you land in Wyoming?" Emma asked, clearly intrigued.
"Ah, that's a long story, but the short of it is, I like the West. The movies inspired me to move here," he answered.
"So, what do you do Mr. Humbert?" she asked.
He laughed, "Oh, please, call me Graham," as his smile reached his eyes, "I'm a sheriff's deputy for the county. Today's my day off, and Regina is a dear friend of mine," said Graham. Regina smiled at him.
"Oh, so if I get into trouble, I'm calling you," Emma said.
"Or I'm calling her," he retorted, indicating Regina. She rolled her eyes at their banter. "Though, you don't seem the trouble type."
"I confess. Some speeding tickets," Emma admitted.
"That's not bad at all. We've all sped in our lives. Some are speed demons here," he said, chuckling.
Regina thoroughly enjoyed watching their exchange, but she had to interrupt due to an important phone call to attend to later, she needed to get this done. She said, "I hate to break this up, as you are both highly entertaining, but I have an important phone call later, so let's get to it."
"Right, sorry!" Emma blushed a little. "My storage unit isn't too far away from here, about ten minutes or so."
"Great. And two trucks will save us some time. I imagine we can transport all that's needed in one go?" he asked. Emma nodded.
"And I'll drive my SUV, as well, just in case there is anything that needs a space more delicate than the back of a truck. Sound good?" Regina asked.
Emma looked at Regina in awe, "Yeah, I mean that sounds great, thank you. Both of you."
Regina and Emma went to let Henry know they were driving out to the storage unit and to lock the door and stay inside until they got back. Regina brought him the house phone just in case he needed to call his mother or an emergency number.
Then they all drove to the storage business to empty the contents of Emma's unit. It took them a little less than an hour to get everything loaded.
Regina had some boxes labeled framed photos in the back of her car as well as kitchenware. This reminded her that the kitchen in the guest house was not stocked and Emma wouldn't be getting her paycheck until next week. Regina texted Graham before she pulled out of the storage place to let him know she had an errand to run. She called up the grocery store in town and spoke with {Sarah Fisher} the owner about what supplies she would need and to please have them boxed up and waiting for her preferably within fifteen minutes.
When Regina arrived at the store she was pleased to find the older blonde waiting with several boxes and they got them into the car quickly. Regina paid and tipped well, expressing her gratitude to the woman.
She returned to the guest house as Emma and Graham finished unloading Graham's truck and were starting on Emma's. Regina nodded to Graham, and he nodded back, keeping Emma busy with the larger things that still need to be unloaded. Regina snuck all of the groceries away in the kitchen in what she considered their proper places. The only things she didn't unpack were Emma's boxes which she rested on the counters.
In under an hour they had everything unloaded into the house. Once all was said and done, the living room and kitchen were stacked full of boxes and some personal furnishings. They all stood admiring their work. Regina smiled slyly at herself. It felt good to do something nice for the family after they had made her that sandwich this afternoon. She hoped they would like the basic necessities she'd picked out.
"Well, time for me to head out," Graham said, dusting his hands and placing them on his hips with a sense of accomplishment.
"Thank you so much for your help today, Graham. It's been a pleasure," Emma said, shaking his hand goodbye.
"Very nice to meet you, Emma, a pleasure for me as well," he said, shaking her hand.
Regina walked him out. He said, "Regina, let's catch up sometime, I miss talking to you."
"Apologies, Graham. I have been rather busy as of late," she said with a sad but hopeful smile.
"Not a worry. I was surprised to hear from you today. Glad too. You're doing well?" he checked in on her. Graham had been there four years ago, the day she lost Daniel.
"Today has been bittersweet and awful, as usual, but also better than expected. Thank you for today, you are a great friend," she said as took a breath, "I'm doing well enough, I still miss him so much."
He hummed in understanding, resting his hand on her shoulder in a supportive gesture, "I really am glad you called, it's good to see you." After a moment he withdrew his hand and said on a more upbeat note, "Emma seems like a great addition."
The brunette laughed and smiled, "Yeah, I think she might be just what Morningstar needs."
Graham nodded, "I agree. Now, whenever you're free, ring me up, okay? I'll see you soon."
Regina nodded and Graham turned to leave. She went back inside to get Emma and they walked to the main house together.
"Graham seems great. Thank you for all of that today. You didn't have to do any of it, so thank you," Emma said sincerely.
"You're welcome. I am happy we could help," Regina said as she unlocked the front door. They made their way into the living room to Henry who jumped up to hug his mother. All the time it took to load and unload their things had allowed him to watch another movie from the series. Regina smiled at them. "Well, I have that phone call to make," she said as Emma helped Henry into his coat, "But you and Henry have access to Disney Plus and other apps on the Smart TV in the living room of your house. You'll find the Wifi information on the modem. If it gives you any trouble or you need anything just let me know."
Regina walked them to the door.
Henry said, "Thank you so much for today, Ms. Mills, I really appreciate your hospitality."
Regina smiled warmly at the boy, "You are very welcome Henry, and thank you for being such a well-mannered and trustworthy young man."
"Thank you, again, for this opportunity, Ms. Mills, I won't let you down," Emma said.
"I'm confident that you won't, Miss Swan. I'll see you both tomorrow, I'm sure. Have a good night," she said.
"Good night," the duo said in unison.
As Emma and Henry walked toward the guest house, Regina overhead Emma, "Alright, kid, let's go home." Regina smiled as she shut the door.
She had a good feeling about this woman.