A/N: Hey peeps I know its been forever but law school is pretty stressful at the moment. Anyway I hope you'll enjoy the new chapter!

Thank you to Abi, my wonderful beta!

Trigger warning: Murder

Please don't forget to review! Now have fun!

Robin can't sleep; too much is on his mind. A glance to the nightstand tells him it's almost 5 am and he sighs. So much for getting well rested to work. But his thoughts have wandered off- have wandered off to a killer who took the life of two innocent woman. Robin tries not to think of how much pain Ruby and Ingrid must've been in; how afraid they must've been.

Tries not to think of Ruby's grandparents and the loss of their little girl, tries not to think of the pain in Elsa's eyes. He shakes his head to get rid of those heavy thoughts, they are not helping.

But then his mind drifts to different eyes, eyes equally full of pain. Robin thinks of how Regina whimpered and pleaded in her sleep and every part of him wants to make her pain go way wants to soothe whatever is troubling his new partner. He knows it's none of his business- knows that Regina can handle herself just fine- but he aches to comfort her, to tell her she doesn't have to deal with it by herself.

Whatever it is she is dealing with.

He is quite taken by his new partner he has to admit. Well so is his little boy, Robin thinks with a smirk. Roland hasn't stopped talking about Regina since the day they met and has asked multiple times when they could go and visit his Gina again. And Henry of course, who his boy might even admire more than he does Regina.

Robin is still rather fascinated how fast his son came to like his new partner and her son. It's not that Roland isn't a social kid or anything but he is shy and it usually takes some time till he trusts someone. Robin always fears that his work, a work where he sometimes sees the worst in people, has affected his son in any way, so he is quite glad that his boy gave his trust so quickly to someone who's clearly worthy of it.

Once again his thoughts wander to the Lucas's and the pain they must feel; Robin can't even imagine losing Roland. Sure, the death of Marian has been gutting- crushed his heart but he survived. He is sure he wouldn't get over Roland's death, no matter how hard he tries

His boy is his entire world. He can't imagine a life without him.

Something he knows his new partner can also relate to. He has seen her with her son, can see the love and pride Regina has for Henry. Justified of course- the lad is a well raised and very bright child. And the protectiveness of the almost 10 year old warms Robin's heart.

Henry will be a fine man someday, he thinks while also making a mental note to tell that Regina. He knows how much it would mean to her

Robin is just about to turn around and maybe get another hour of sleep or so when the phone rings and his face loses all color.

He hit again.

Regina feels a bit better when she wakes up at the sound of her phone ringing. Her dreams hadn't been pleasant, but they have been less brutal less dark than usual. Her good mood of course vanishes as soon as Robin tells her to meet him at the Dark Horse Hotel- they have another murder.

Three, actually.

Eugenia and Geppetto Lucas, Ruby's grandparents are dead. Their hotel room burnt down. And if that wasn't bad enough Robin told her that the body of 24 year old Ariel Atlantia has been found. She was the receptionist at the hotel the Lucas's were staying.

Three lives gone. Countless lives destroyed and they are still not closer catching him. Regina is as pissed as she is desperate, and so angry at herself. Maybe if she wasn't so focused on her own troubles she could've prevented their deaths.

She can't get anything right.

"Good morning milady," Robin voices rips her out of her thoughts and he looks just as tired as she feels holding a cup of coffee out for her. She takes with a grateful smile and asks:

"What happened here?"

"The fire alarm was ringing about 40 minutes ago and somebody turned off the sprinkler system. They tried everything but it was too late. We don't have a positive ID yet but it's their room, body height matches. It's them, Regina."

Regina sighs and massages her temple feeling the signs of a migraine coming. "So we were right, Ruby probably never was the intended target to begin with."

Robin only shakes his head and continues "It looks like the other crimes scenes. Everything matches up to the egg he used to the gunshot wounds – the same Ruby suffered. Also their driving licenses are gone."

"What about the third victim?" Regina asks watching how the fire department and Robin's people worked around her. There is no entering the room before they give the okay, Regina knows that, but she is growing impatient.

"Ariel Atlantia, 24 years old. She had the night shift at the reception. We found her body in their room, her hotel ID card around her neck. We won't know much before your charming medical examiner takes a look at her"

Regina nods silently and just stares towards the hotel deep in thoughts.

"Regina what is going on in the pretty head of yours? Talk to me milady."

Regina doesn't react at her first, only turns her attention to Robin when he softly touches her arm. Dark eyes meet blue worried ones and she sighs again.

"I've been doing this job for quite some time Robin, I've cracked cases nobody thought was possible but this one… we have 5 dead yet have nothing. That son of a bitch still runs around and kills and rapes for whatever twisted reason and we have nothing."

Her voice wavers a bit at the end but damn- she is so tired and done. She just wants this case to be over and go home and lick her own wounds. And she feels terrible for feeling that way because five people are dead and she thinks about herself. But fuck- it's just a bit much at the moment. She longs for quiet and maybe someone to take her mind off of the things she sees in her sleep

Memories which are too painful, too dark, too dangerous to ever voice. She thinks for a moment that Robin might understand, might not look at her with disgust and pity in his blue eyes. But she forgets that thought quickly because there is no way she can tell him what is troubling her.

Can't because it hurts too much, and can't because knowing would bring him into all this. Not to mention she only knows him for about 5 days she doesn't trust him- can't trust him.

But she strangely finds herself that try all she might, she still does. Trust him. Regina shakes her head, its dangerous and stupid and before Robin can asks what sure will be another question what is going on she heads towards the hotel.

She has to do a job after all.

Robin sighs when closes the door to his car, stepping out next the diner to get some breakfast with Regina. They spent almost 2 hours at the crime scene, talked through every scenario and Robin is once again impressed by the cleverness of his partner- how fast she catches up at forensic details he usually has to explain 100 bloody times to the detectives. He knows that the physics behind arson aren't really what fascinates most people- knows that the cops he usually works with have enough to do- but understanding every aspect of the case is rather important, if you ask him.

Something his new partner thankfully agrees with as she carefully listens to every word Robin and his team says, even if the details are practically the same at every crime scene.

And now they are here at Regina's favorite diner after Robin spend 10 minutes arguing with her whether they should go and grab something to eat or not. It's not that Robin looks forward to watch Regina flirt with that bloody moron Jefferson again but she needs to eat, they need to eat. This case is energy draining and they can't afford not to be at the top of their game.

They find a table quickly. Jefferson- with such a bright smile on his face Robin wants to wipe it off (preferably with his fist)- comes by to take their orders.

"Is there a reason you look like somebody kicked your puppy Locksley?" Robin's eyes meet Regina's finding that she is studying him and almost shivers under her intense gaze.

"It's nothing milady-" and before she can ask any follow up questions he changes the subject. He has no right to be jealous. "Any thoughts on our lovely case?"

Regina barely can suppress a smirk because she has a good idea what makes her partner look like he is ready to punch his fist through the next wall.

Jefferson

Robin has no right to be jealous- they are nothing more than friends but it still amuses Regina. But he is mostly polite when Jefferson comes back with their order (apple pancakes with the homemade sauce for her and eggs with bacon for Robin) and she appreciates it.

As said, they are not more than friends and she has enough to deal with- doesn't need the annoying behavior of men to top it off.

"We need to find a connection between Ruby's grandparents and Ingrid. I know we can't rule anything out yet but my gut says there is one between those three people. And that connection is the key."

Robin nods his head in agreement and they both spend the next few minutes speculating about what exactly all those people have in common, and if Ruby and Ariel truly have just been collateral damage.

They both think so.

Regina just starts to ask Robin his opinion on some of the evidence they collect when her phone rings.

It's David.

They spend a few minutes on the phone, mostly him checking up on her and her insisting that he is the one with a hole in his stomach and that she is completely fine. He sees straight through her.

When she tells him it's time to stop before Robin can't pretend any longer that he isn't actually eavesdropping David invites them to dinner tonight.

Them

Them as in her and Henry (as always, David and Mary Margaret adore Henry) and Robin and Roland. Telling her he wants to meet the person having his partner's back, making sure she is safe. She tries to talk him out of it but if there is something David and her have in common it's their stubbornness.

Eventually she has to agree, and with the knowledge that David only pushes out of concern for her she finally relents and agrees, they will be there.

"Where will we be?" Robin asks her grinning at her in a way that makes her heart flutter.

"At David's and Mary Margaret's. You and Roland are invited too and I should tell you they won't take no for an answer and unless you have something tonight that resembles a life and death situation you two have to come"

Regina hopes for a moment that Robin actually does have a life and death situation coming because she doesn't want this. It's not that she doesn't want to spend time with either the Nolan's or Robin and his boy but David knows her well. She doesn't want to hear his questions, doesn't want them to gang up on her to get her to open up.

Regina is good in hiding her emotions, growing up with Cora will do that to you, but they know her well and Robin had a way from the start to see past her carefully put up walls.

She can't tell them; can't tell them the secret which will bring her down if it ever comes out. A secret which will bring them down with her if they ever get involved.

But of course fate isn't on her side, Robin agreeing to the indentation without a second hesitation and a soft smile on his lips.

Robin sits on his desk watching his partner once again. Once again, instead of going through files (he hates that part of the job and they seem to do that more often than not) his eyes are on the brunette.

He was pleased by the invitation from the Nolan's – surprised but pleased and he thought agreeing would be a good idea. Apparently he was wrong because Regina seems tense since they left the diner. She avoids eye contact and based on the wrinkles the around her eyes Robin guesses a migraine is coming.

Marian used to have them too, rather severe ones actually so he knows the signs. What he doesn't understand on the other hand why a simple dinner with him and her friends has her on the edge like this? They might have somewhat of a bumpy start but he likes to think that they've come quite far. Thinks they might actually be friends.

He takes a deep breath when he decides that openly asking her might be the best way to go at his. Hopefully

"Regina, would you rather not have me and Roland come with you tonight?"

She doesn't look up, eyes glued to the paper in front of her, tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear. Something Robin has come to realize she does when she is nervous and he can tell his question is making her uncomfortable.

"Don't be silly, dear. Why wouldn't I want it?" She is still not really looking at him and Robin thinks this might be about more than just wanting to spend her evening without him.

"I don't know Regina. But something is up with you." Robin throws another concerned glance towards her trying to keep his voice as neutral as possible

"Nothing is up with me Locksley. Stop annoying me." Regina snaps at him but before Robin can say anything her phone rings again- the medical examiner telling them she has something which is all Regina tells him before she walks out the door, not caring if he catches up with her or not.

He greets Dr. Bauer with a soft smile; he somehow likes the woman, admires her sharp mind. Besides he likes people who cut straight to the chase.

"Well hello there hot shot," Robin's grin goes even wider at her words while Regina just rolls her eyes.
"Do you have something for us doc?"
"I do handsome, I do. But I fear it's neither something new nor pleasant" The blond woman has grinned through most of her exchange now she sobers up quite a bit. Which likely means they are in for some crappy news. He already hates this bloody day.

And Dr. Bauer was right; it's neither new nor pleasant. Ruby's grandparents died the same way their granddaughter did. So did the poor girl probably just was at the wrong place at the wrong time. The only thing different seems to be that Eugenia Lucas wasn't sexually assaulted, but Ariel was.

Robin can't even describe how much he hates this guy. How much he would like his fist to make the acquaintance of the face of his bloody moron. He is still in his rather dark thoughts when it's his phone that rings this time- its Mulan and he excuses himself for a moment, realizing that Regina still hasn't said one word to him since they come down to the morgue.

Something was definitely up with his partner.

Regina watches Robin leaving the room talking with a woman names Mulan who is if she remembers correctly Roland's babysitter. She sighs and tries to stop herself from fidgeting, balls her fists trying to regain control.

This case gets to her, the smell of burnt flesh gets to her, Robin gets to her. He had immediately picked up that something was wrong and wouldn't let go. He is like a dog with a bone form times to times.

Get a grip Mills, Regina thinks and takes another deep breath till she realizes that she is being watched by deep blue eyes once again.

"Spit it out Regina. What's going on between you and the hot shot?" Regina almost grins at Mal's directness. Something she usually appreciates but today it's just annoying. Annoying and dangerous.

"Nothing is going on, dear." Regina sighs again when Mal throws a glance at her that clearly says bullshit so she tries again. "It's really nothing. David invited me, Robin and the boys to him tonight. I just don't look forward spending my time with two annoying men and an over hopeful district attorney."

"David invited Robin and you to dinner?" Mal's eyes go wide as does her smirk. It doesn't surprise her David wants to check up on his partner and her new partner, even more so since Mal and Mary Margaret might've talked a bit about a certain British fire marshal. The pixie haired ADA usually gets on Mal's nerves but they both have a deep affection for Regina in common so Mal tolerates her. Most of the time.

Tolerates her and lately even went out for coffee with her having one topic – Regina and Robin. Both woman have seen the spark, the tension, the chemistry between them and since both used to play (rather unsuccessful) match maker for their dark haired friend they are curious.

"Yes," Regina grumbles, watching how Mal sits down on her chair.
"What's really going on Regina?"
"I thought your hearing works without problems, dear? I already told you everything is fine. You might want to visit a doctor at some point," Regina's voice is sharp and she feels a bit guilty as Mal raises her eyebrows at her tone.

"Yeah you can bullshit someone else, little one. You've been different since your dear old stepfather went six feet under. A dinner with people you trust might help. Since you won't talk about it with me."

Regina now glares at Mal feeling very… off, her head pounding and it's not even noon. She just whishes everybody would back off.

"I won't talk because there is nothing to talk about. And I'm the same as always. It's not my fault that Rose cheated on you and now you think everyone has this dark deep secret. You have enough to do with your own problems to put your nose where it doesn't belong, Malina."

With that Regina turns around and walks out, feeling already guilty for her sharp words when she lets the door close with a loud boom. She knows that that was unfair and mean but Mal has a way to get under her skin and she is just done for today.

She just walks up to her car- she has a lunch date with her son- and shoots Robin a text to meet again in two hours, not wanting to talk to him.

While Regina busies herself with her car her friend still sits in her chair, eyes on the now closed door. Mal isn't very put off; she has thick skin and is used to Regina's sharp tongue but the fact that her friend pushed her away with such force tells her something that she has feared for weeks now is true.

Whatever bothers Regina is more serious than some simple family problems or grief. Something is going on, and Mal just hopes that maybe the handsome British fire marshal finds a way to make Regina open up. Because she and David already failed.

Robin says goodbye to Mulan- thankfully nothing serious has happened she just wanted to talk about some things concerning their schedule for Roland. And the fact that after 'animal day' in day care his son wants nothing more in the world than a pet. Preferably a dog; or at least a cat.

Robin sighs deeply when he sits down- Roland's wish for a pet has started since he met Ayla and the boy has kept asking since. Of course his day care had to pick exactly this time to talk about how to treat animal's right. Robin knows it's important, but he also is aware how much time and care an animal needs and since his son is five years old most of the work will have to be done by Robin.

So definitely not a dog, maybe a cat. He will asks Regina about it, Robin thinks to himself, since she already has a pet. Speaking of Regina… he is about to go back to the morgue to fetch his partner when he sees her text that she is meeting her son for lunch and to meet her later.

As Robin stares at his phone he can't stop himself from thinking that this feels a lot like running. He knows it's just lunch but Regina seems to make quite a big deal about something as simple as a dinner with friends. It seems like she is almost afraid of it.

For a moment Robin thinks about cancelling tonight and giving Regina the easy way out but somehow he has a feeling that tonight will be important.

"What's so interesting about that wall Locksley?"

A voice rips Robin out of his thoughts and when he turns his head around Emma Swan is standing in front of him, muttering curiously. He looks at her, confused for a moment by what she means by her words before she explains it smirking softly.

"You've been staring at that wall for the last 10 minutes so either this is some freakishly British thing or something is bothering you."

Robin has to chuckle at Emma's direct approach even if he isn't sure how he should respond. He knows Regina and the blond haired detective are friends, knows Regina respects her quite a bit, but he can't imagine his lovely partner would appreciate him talking about her with someone else. Even if that someone else is someone she trusts.

"Well it's a quite fascinating wall Detective." Now it's Emma who has to chuckle but she shoots him a look that tells him she looks straight through him.
"C'mon buddy what is going on? The case getting to you?"

Robin sighs and nods. Because yes, the case is indeed troubling him too, even if that's not what has him admiring the truly hideous wall for the last few minutes.

"I hate that bloody moron."

Robin knows he doesn't have to specify who he is talking about, Emma gets it.

"Yeah I feel you. Speaking of the case…where is her Majesty?"

It sounds affectionate when she says the title and Robin has to agree Her Majesty is a rather fitting nickname for Regina. He thinks of the way she holds herself, of way she talks and acts, how she can bend everybody to her will… she truly reminds him of a Queen from time to time. Even her name fits the description of royalty. Very bossy royalty though.

"Having lunch with her boy. We'll meet up later." Robin can see how Emma studies him, her gaze intense, but it takes another full minute before Robin dares to ask, not sure if he is stepping over boundaries here.

"Emma… is she alright? Regina I mean?"

He is worried about her; has been from the moment she told him that within three weeks she lost her stepfather and almost her and her partners life. In the few days he has known her he quickly realized how strong, how brave his partner is.

But he also notices her hurting. She tries to cover it up- keeps up her brave face- and if you don't work closely with her you would never guess that something is up. And Robin can't help himself; he just wants to chase the pain in her dark eyes away. Knows that it´s none of his business which is why he expects Emma to say he should mind said own business but she surprises him when she replies.

"I'd like to tell you that Regina and her life doesn't concern you and to fuck off because I would die before betraying her trust…" Robin almost grins at the detective's dramatic words but interrupts her- he doesn't want for Emma to break any promises- he just wants to know if there is something he can do to help, which is what he tells her.

"I know what you meant Locksley but the truth is… something has been up with Regina for weeks now but she won't talk about it. With anyone. So I can't really tell you anything anyway but…"
"But?" Robin coaxes.
"- but you might have a way in. Regina doesn't trust easily- something she and I have in common- but she seems to trust you after just a few days. Maybe you get lucky and she tells you whatever the fuck is hurting her. Just… don't push her, okay?"

Robin assures Emma that he won't- he knows he has to tread carefully, knows how quickly Regina's walls rise sky-high. Knows that she has to lower those walls willingly and they are not there yet. There is some amount of trust between them; Robin agrees there with Emma, and it probably makes him happier than it should but… well bloody hell it just does.

"Well I gotta go, Neal might have a lead. Good luck Locksley."

Robin says goodbye to the other Detective and is about to go back reading files when Emma calls for him again. He looks up and when their eyes meet Robin knows the blond woman is deadly serious when she tells him

"I don't know what exactly is going on between you and Regina and its none of my business anyway, but if you ever hurt her or well, push he,r I will shot you. Just so we are clear."

"We are clear Detective," Robin doesn't break eye contact with the other woman and when she is satisfied Emma nods and walks away. Robin isn't sure how is supposed to feel about Emma words. For once he is glad that Regina seems to have quite a few people in her corner, on the other hand he doesn't quite understand what Emma and the others think is going on between him and Regina.

They are friends- no more. Sometimes he isn't even sure if they are friends. Like today when she looks everything but happy having to spend the evening with him and Roland.

Regina Mills might be the most complicated woman Robin has ever met.

Regina just crosses the street to the diner Robin and she were just a few hours ago- Henry had insisted on going here and there isn't really much she can say no to when her little prince asks these days.

She is upset and her head hurts and she would've preferred a few minutes to herself before her son showed up but no such luck today. Before she can open the door to the diner Sidney is standing next to her, smiling in a way that makes her shiver.

She has a bad feeling around this man, a feeling she can't shake.

"Hello Regina. What a nice coincidence to meet you here."

Regina almost growls, nice coincidence my ass. Sidney probably followed her and for a moment she has the desire to wipe that smug grin from his face. But she knows fighting with the press only leads to problems so she forces a polite smile which probably looks more like a grimace but Sidney doesn't seem to notice.

"Hello Sidney. What can I do for you?" Her voice is neutral when she asks hoping to get rid of him as soon as possible.
"Oh just curious if you have any new information you might want to share with me? Maybe over a nice lunch or so?"

If hell freezes over, Regina thinks bitterly, there is not a chance that she willingly sits through a lunch with Sidney.
"Nothing I can tell you yet I fear. Besides I'm about to meet my son here for lunch, I'm sorry."

She can see how he tries- and fails- to hide his disappointment and thankfully before he can push further Belle appears with Henry around the corner and their conversation gets interrupted by a loud and enthusiastic "Mom"

She calms down a bit listening to her son telling her about her day. His presence always seems to ground her; always makes her feel lighter. Daniel had the same effect on her and sometimes it hurts how much her son is like his father.

God, she misses him so much. She could really use him now, his calm way in handling things, his unwavering faith in her, the unconditional support he offered.

"Mom are you listening?" Henry asks, taking a bite of his cheeseburger. Regina usually insists on more healthy food than a greasy burger but she makes an exception today. She seems to that more often than not lately but she can't forget her son's wide scared eyes when he saw her first after she had been shot.

God she really wants things to go back how they were. Before her life has become an utter and complete mess. Sure, she has missed Daniel terribly, but besides that she and Henry had a pretty good life.

Till everything changed a few weeks ago. Till old demons resurfaced threating to destroy everything she fought so hard for.

"I'm sorry sweetheart I was thinking about my case," Regina lies and tries to smile taking another fork full of the chicken salad she ordered. "What did you say?"

Henry throws a concerned glance at her and Regina wants to kick herself. So much for keeping Henry out of all it.

"I was just telling you about the science project we are doing in school, nothing important," her son shrugs still looking worried.

"Everything you do is important Henry. I'm sorry I wasn't listening. Tell me more about it, alright?" Regina feels even guiltier than she already did and it only increases when Henry asks "Are you alright mom?"

She forces herself not to flinch at his question, schooling her face into what she hopes is a neutral expression and answers "I'm fine Henry I promise. Our case is just not working out the way I want it to but I'll figure it out."

"Are you sure?" She can see fear in his eyes and god she is a terrible mother "I'm 100% sure sweetie."

He starts eating again and Regina thinks she succeeded in convincing her son that everything is aright (god it is everything but alright) when he asks her, sounding uncertain

"Should we postpone my birthday party mom? So you don't have so much on your hands?"

Regina has troubles for a moment to not let tears gather in her eyes. For once she is touched that her son would even suggests something like postponing something he has been looking forward for quite some time. He really is a wonderful boy.

But on the other hand that he sees the need to even ask something like that makes Regina swallow hard in guilt. She really fails in everything lately.

"Honey that is very sweet of you but I promise you everything is fine. And there is nothing in world that will ever stop me from celebrating your birthday. You are the most important thing to me Henry and I can't wait to celebrate that day with you"

He seems not entirely convinced but nods and soon changes the topic to something lighter (Ayla finally listening to the order "sit") and Regina lets him. Let's him and tells herself to make sure this birthday party is the best he ever had.

Times flies by and before she knows it, it is time to say goodbye to her son. Well it would be if Belle would be here to pick him up. Said woman just called telling them that she has car troubles and is stuck at Regina's apartment which yes is rather unfortunate.

She is about to meet Robin and question a few of the hotel staff she can't really be late. She is already about to call her new partner when Jefferson emerges having overheard her troubles and offering his help.

"Really Regina I can drop Henry at your place and take a look at Belle's car. I let Grumpy here take over the diner, it's really no big deal."

He smiles lightly at her and Regina really has to admit it would help her quite a bit. "Only if it's really not causing any trouble Jefferson. I wouldn't ask that of you."

Regina looks at him uncertainly but his smile only goes wider and he winks at her.
"You are not asking, I'm offering Regina. And it's always a fine idea to be nice to recurring customers; it's good for business you know."

Regina finally agrees and kisses her son goodbye, watching how he disappears with Jefferson urging him again to call her as soon as he is home and thanks Jefferson for the about fourth time.

She sighs when she leaves the diner to face Robin again. Robin, and his way of seeing straight through her. She can't wait for this day to be over.

Robin decides it might be best to give Regina some space before they meet up tonight at the Nolan's, to listen to Emma and not push. At least not now.

So he only greets her with a soft smile and the innocent question how lunch with her son was. After that they stay solely focused on the case, discussing theories and trying to figure out a connection between all of it.

Not that the people at the hotel are able to help much. No one has seen something suspicious or out of order and Robin just wants to kick something in frustration. How can it be they are coming up with nothing all the bloody time?

Also the rest of the afternoon passes without any clues and both Robin and Regina are annoyed and frustrated when they decide to call it a day and go home and get ready for the dinner.

Robin wants to ask her again if she is alright noticing how she rubs her temples again and again always pulling her hands back quickly when he caught her. He wants to tell her to take it easy to maybe just go home and forget about the dinner tonight.

But it's not his decision to make and when he tells her he will see her later she smiles and tells him the same. The same, expect that her smile doesn't actually reach her eyes, her face pale but head held high.

Why does she have to be so bloody stubborn?

Regina is silent most of the drive to David and Mary Margaret's, simply listening to Henry talk. She is dreading tonight- was tempted to just "forget" to text Robin the address to David's house but well, that probably wouldn't help things now would it?

That's why Regina is here now nervous as hell when she locks her car and walks after her son who already runs to the door, very excited to see Uncle Dave and Aunt Mary Margaret again.

Robin isn't here yet when she rings the bell and gets welcomed by a smiling pixie haired woman and gets pulled into a tight embrace. An embrace she answers with a roll of her eyes. She does like the other woman quite a bit but her over affectionate way is sometimes rather annoying.

"It's so great to have you here Regina. We missed you," Regina can't stop herself from smiling back, her smile getting even brighter (still laced with some guilt though) when David comes towards her, still rather unsteady on his legs but still manages to pull her into a hug.

"We did miss you Regina."

Regina almost cries at this, feeling guilty all over again when it becomes quite clear how scared they have been for her; how much she seems to matter to him.

The weighting moment is than interrupted by another ring of the bell.

Robin is here. Robin and his little boy.

Regina greets Robin with a polite but nervous smile (Roland practically crushes her as a greeting) quite the contrary to Mary Margarete who hugs Robin and Roland. Her husband is a bit less enthusiastic- he studies Robin very very closely but her new partner never breaks eye contact with David.

"Locksley. How do you like working with my partner," he emphasizes the my partner and Regina wants to punch him but since he is hurt she is alright with simply rolling her eyes and a hissed David

"What? I'm allowed to ask that question aren't I?"

"It's more than alright Regina," Robin smiles at her before turning his attention back to David. "It's bloody great, Detective. Regina is an incredibly smart and witty cop. And one with a bloody mean right hook."

David looks him over and seems to be satisfied with his answer and Regina lets out the breath she wasn't realizing she was holding. She really doesn't need a fight between them because David is overprotective.

"Well since we got that out of the way how about you all sit down and be nice till the food is on the table?" Mary Margaret interrupts, guiding them all to the huge table and Regina squeezes her shoulder gratefully as she passes by.

Soon everyone is chatting about god and the world, Henry telling Robin about his new science project while Roland explains to her and David how to feed the ducks. He was at the park today with Mulan.

The topics are light and the atmosphere stays nice and warm and Regina almost feels comfortable, glad that Robin and the Nolan's seem to get along just fine, glad that her son and Roland have fun together despite the age difference. The food Mary Margaret serves (chicken with her homemade sauce which Regina would positively die for, and potatoes and rice) tastes delicious and for the first time in some time Regina is actually hungry.

Regina can feel herself slowly relax, her shoulders lose their tension and when David tells one of his truly terrible joke she actually find herself laughing freely at it. Maybe Mal is right; maybe tonight was a good idea.

"Mom can Robin and Roland come to my birthday party on Sunday?"

Regina almost chokes on the piece of chicken she just put in her mouth at her son's question, her eyes locking with Robin who just looks guiltily at her. Not that that is helping much, she can't really say no when both father and son sit next to her. And Henry looks so hopeful at her so she forces a smile and says "If you want to invite them of course sweetie," she turns her attention to Robin, "Unless you have different plans on Sunday- I know it's rather short notice."

Robin remains silent, probably trying to figure out what the right answer is clearly picking up on her unease. Regina doesn't know why it is so difficult to hide her emotions from Robin lately, she just knows it is. And now he might be with her at the one day this week where she could justify not being near him. The one day off this week Gold gives them, very begrudginglysince they are hunting a serial killer but he knows that sometimes you need to take a step back, a moment to sort your thoughts anew.

Robin can read her and he feels safe – she feels safe with him and it's dangerous and stupid and she wants to push him as far away as possible but at the same time she can breathe when he is around.

"We don't have any plans as far as I know so we'd like to come if you are certain it's not too much trouble Regina."

"Don't be silly Robin; two people more or less aren't going to make a difference. Be at my place around 2."

Regina smiles at her son who beams at her- as does the little munchkin and Regina can't regret her choice to say yes, looking at them. It's just a birthday party and its Henry's big day… everything will be fine, Robin won't push for answers on such an occasion.

"Alright we will be there. Thank you very much for the invitation, both of you," Robin smiles at her and Regina finds herself smiling back – a real, actual smile. What is this man doing to her?

Before any of the adults or the two boys can say anything else Tim's– David and Mary Margret's son – cries can be heard coming from his room. It seems someone is up from their nap.

David slowly gets up, putting his hand on his wife's arm signaling her he would take this one.

"Regina do you want to come and say hi to your godson?" David asks, already reaching out for her. Regina nods, taking his outreached hand following him biting her lip anxiously.

She loves the little boy and she hasn't seen him since she was shot but she also gets the feeling David has a different reason to take her with him than godson-godmother bonding.

"Hey there buddy, look who is here," David hands his son over and as many times before the 10 month old stops crying as soon as he is in Regina's arms.

"Hi sweetheart, I missed you," Regina whispers pressing a kiss on his forehead.

"He missed you too. As did we- no one gets him to sleep faster than you. You owe us Regina," David tells her winking at her. Regina grins when she replies "I can't help it if he likes me more than you."

"He is my son, he has good taste," David teases back and Regina missed his, missed her partner and the easiness of their relationship. Even if he does annoy her quite a bit from time to time Regina loves him like the brother she never had.

They chat for a bit, David asking casual questions about her case, Robin and Henry's birthday and Regina slowly relaxes. Which was her first mistake.

"What's going on Regina?"

Regina is caught off guard her attention focused on Tim and telling David about the gift she has for her son. "What do you mean, dear?"

"Stop it Regina. You've been off for weeks now and instead of getting better it seems to be worse. "

"I have five people dead David, and a new partner who annoys me more than you are capable of and that means something. I'm fine."

"Yeah lie to someone who hasn't been your partner for almost a decade. Besides I get the feeling you like Robin just fine," he almost snaps at her, clearly frustrated. Well that makes two of them.

"He thinks he knows everything and that his British charm gets him everything. Yes I like him very very much," Regina tells him her voice full of sarcasm.

"Would be more convincing if you would have said it with less affection in your voice. Something is going on and is has nothing to do with the new guy or this case. I know you too well for that Regina."

Regina hisses a sharp "So you think David. And I'm done taking about it," and puts Tim back in his crib. "You've been shot – deal with your own things and keep your nose out of mine."

David raises his eyebrows in a similar fashion as Mal before, takes her hand into his and squeezes "You forget I'm used to your sharp tongue and not that easily scared away. I didn't push earlier because I know Leopold just died and then the shooting but I'm done pretending you are alright. What. Is. Going. On. Regina? Please let me help?"

"I said I'm fine you moron. And I came here for the food and some conversation and not to be interrogated by you. I'm a grown woman and this is my life so back off and deal with your own."

With that Regina storms out of the room and keeps going as she passes by Robin and Mary Margret- the boys are gone probably upstairs watching some cartoons- and runs outside.

She needs some air and she just needs everyone to back off and give her some space. The case, her injury and the sleepless nights are affecting her more than she likes to admit. Her walls aren't as strong as they used to be and that scares her.

She needs a minute alone needs to pull herself together till she can be strong again. Strong enough to forget what happened in the last month.

Robin looks around searching for Regina- he doesn't know what happened between her and her partner- both seemed rather upset. So they quickly agreed it might be best if he goes after her. Thankfully he finds her sitting on a bench in the backyard of the Nolan's, covering her face with her hands.

Robin approaches slowly his voice soft when he asks "Regina?"

She doesn't look up for a few moments and when she does he can see tears in her eyes. Tears and anger and shame and so much pain. So much it takes her moment to hide everything to fight for a somewhat neutral expression.

"What do you want Locksley?"

Her voice is sharp and Robin knows one wrong word and she will storm off again. So he tries to look at her without judgment or anything tries to be as normal as possible

"Can I sit down?"

She hesitates for a moment and then mutters "I'm not stopping you"

Well he counts that as a win.

He sits next to her and remains quiet for a few moments before

"What do you think of cats?"

He can see his question has thrown her off but he wants her to calm down a bit. Doesn't want to push

"What?"

"A cat. You know the fluffy little animal with four legs that sometimes meows."

"I know what a cat is you idiot. What do you want to gain with asking me such a ridiculous question?"

"I don't want to gain anything besides your opinion. Roland wants a pet and as cute as Ayla is, it's a definitive no on the dog front. A cat though… I might be convinced."

She looks at him for a moment as if he has lost his mind before she shrugs; her voice a bit steadier than before. "Many studies show that children growing up with animals have healthier lives and relationships than those who don't. Might be worth a thought."

They talk about cats and dogs for a while, nothing too heavy, just a nice conversation. Robin could spend the entire evening like this as he finds himself once again enjoying Regina's company very much.

She just fascinates him beyond everything. Not just her beauty which is rather breathtaking but her entire being.

Her sass, her wit, her intelligence, her strength.

But he also knows that talking about animals and their children won't solve anything. He is pretty sure she won't tell him what bothers her but he has to try

"Why did you storm off?"

He asks the question neutral once again free of judgment more curious than anything else. He still can see her tense, her hands balled to tight fists.

"Because I can only endure you or David annoying me for a certain amount of time. Both are a bit much don't you agree?" Robin sighs when Regina once again avoids eye contact.

"We worry Regina. That's all."

"Why do you worry Locksley? You've known me for what – five days or so?" Regina snaps at him and yeah she does have a point there. Five days is nothing, barely any time to know somebody, to care they the way he does.

"You don't have to know somebody well to care for them Regina. And despite your very charming attitude I find I do like you. I even would go so far and say that we might be something like friends. And friends ask if something is wrong and something is definitely wrong milady."

"Besides… I think David and Mary Margaret have definitely earned the right to ask that question. You seem to very close with them. You actually seem to have quite a few people in your corner if we are being honest. And you talk to none of them. So I thought maybe I could try."

"There is nothing to talk about Locksley. I've been shot as has my partner and we have a serial killer on our hands. I would say it's quite normal that I'm not all rainbows and unicorn stickers."

"True you've been dealing with a lot. But I somehow have the feeling this is about something else, and my gut is rarely wrong"

"Well than you might want to let your digestive system checked out. Because it is wrong. I'm fine."

"I was right next to you last night Regina. I heard you whimper and plead in your sleep. You are not fine."

He knows he is playing unfairly right now but he worries, and she keeps stone walling him. He doesn't want to push her but he also can't let her suffer in silence. He just can't. Why this is so important to him? He has no bloody idea

Regina gets even tenser a blush creeping up her cheeks- she is embarrassed. And she seems to be just about to snap at him again when she just sacks together suddenly looking utterly exhausted. All fight seems to have left her

"Robin I know you mean well but I neither can nor want to talk about my dreams or my life anymore. Can you please just drop it?"

"Regina I-" but he doesn't come any further when she interrupts him putting her hand above his and asks- no, almost pleads

"Please Robin. Don't make me."

There is something in her eyes that tells Robin he needs to back down; knows that whatever is indeed troubling his partner she isn't ready to tell him yet. He almost sighs in frustration but he knows building trust needs time. She isn't ready yet but maybe she will someday.

And he will be there when it happens. He nods even if it rips him apart seeing the pain in her dark eyes but he agrees nevertheless. He can't- no, won't- force her to reveal whatever has her like this.

"Okay I won't Regina. At least not today. But whatever it is… you have people that care very much for you. You are not alone."