(( SOOOO IK I HAVEN'T UPDATED IN A WHILEEE... but I worked super duper hard on this chapter, even if it may not be the greatest. I hope you all enjoy it :) As much as I did writing it! ILY all sm. ))

"Happy birthday to you..."

The flickering of the flame that blazed upon the wick of the spiral colored candles consumed my attention fully. The chanting and chiming of the legendary song that commemorated everyones day of birth resonated in my ears. I tried to tune it out; trying to hide behind the invisible wall that I surrounded myself with.

"Happy birthday to you..."

The repetition of words made me cringe, and shudder under all of their gazes. I usually thoroughly enjoy this day, the one day a year that I had to celebrate me. I should've been used to it anyway; being alone, or - not quite alone. Just without the one person I wanted to be here the most. She missed this day sometimes, due to her work and business that always kept her on her toes and busy. But I understood, and tried not to let it crawl under my skin. She always apologized anyway, calling me first thing in the morning to be the first to say 'Happy Birthday baby!'

"Happy birthday dear Henry..."

Everyone's stare resided on me, I could feel their presence and the smiles that stretched upon their lips as they continued chanting. Their voices chiming together in a gentle harmony and tune, whilst I glared at the white and blue iced cake. Its fluffy texture and delicious smell was the only thing keeping me from shoving a small fist right through it. I may of understood why my mother couldn't be here, but that doesn't mean I wasn't angry.

"Happy birthday to you!"

Cheering erupted from their lungs, and they put their hands together in an attempt to celebrate and show me how excited they were that I was getting older. As on cue, I forced a grin and inhaled a large breath of cold air. As I exhaled, the radiant flames on the candles vanished into thin air. More cheering, and graceful clapping and congratulating poured into my brain. It was overwhelming with how much was on my mind; but I accepted the compliments anyway, and shot smiles as my thanks. I thought this birthday was going to be different, with a mom by my side. Her bright and warming smile over my shoulder as I blew my candles out, and her excited clapping overpowering everyone else's cheer. She would treat me like this little prince, which I secretly loved, behind all of the glares I give her when she does.

I knew what my birthday wish was. I wanted my mom to come home.

Everyone finally relaxed, and helped themselves to some of the legendary cake MM had made - even though Granny insisted twice before that she'd take care of the food and desserts. I would've had some myself, but I ended up taking a step back and watching everyone else enjoy the rich pastry. The gentle clinks and scrapes of forks hitting the smooth surface of the glass plates filled the hushed room. Small chatter emerged from some, others stuffed their faces with the dessert. I couldn't blame them, I've had MM's cakes before and they were far more than legendary. She'd constantly insist on bringing in some goodies to class, and feeds every student full until they had to call home because of a stomach ache. But no matter how many times those kids got sick, they never refused any of her treats.

I scanned the room for the man with the stubble and apparent post wood form. All I saw was the town's residents catching glances back at me with a smile and a welcoming wave, for which I had to politely return. After at least a minute of lurking and scanning, I felt a presence behind me which didn't really frighten me after all - because I knew exactly who it was.

"Lookin' for me kid?" August's deep, scratchy voice met my ear and I sighed as I turned on my heel to face his large structure. He had a gentle grin plastered on his face, and stuffed his hands into his jean pockets, "Seem's like the town adores you," he chuckled, "kinda weird, but kinda sweet at the same time." There was his sarcasm that never seemed to fade.

"I guess I'm a likable person," I shrugged, forcing a grin.

"That you are."

I shifted on my feet and soon began to rock on my heels, trying to break the not so silent - silence that resided between us, "How many more stories do I have to tell to bring my mom home?" I spoke, glancing at the tiles under my feet.

"Huh?"

"Yanno.. how many more people do I have to tell these fairy tales to? It's not like they're believing me anyway..." I sighed, now being the one to stick my hands into my own pockets, "I'm just a kid, nobody takes me seriously."

August subtly glanced around, and lowered his voice a tone, "Henry, I know it's hard.. but it's only been a few days. It takes time, and I know patience is a hard thing to come by, but I promise you - it'll be worth it." He preached down at me, but those words flew over my head as my mind scavenged for the actual answer to my question which wasn't spoken.

"August, I wasn't asking for a hope speech."

"Sorry kid," his shoulders rose and fell in a shrug, "just trying to help."

"Hey, August-" A light chirpy voice arose from behind the bearded man. A tall woman, with long dark hair, with a hint of red, appeared, "I got you some cake.. thought you'd like some," Ruby flashed a gentle smile as August shifted his body to face the charming young girl.

His hand slid from his pocket, and tenderly grasped the paper plate from her grip, "Seem's like you're warming up to me already," he teased, "I knew you'd come around." Classic old August, being the smart ass he was.

Ruby rolled her eyes, but couldn't suppress the smile forming on her lips. She trudged away, back towards the counter to go converse with Granny and Sheriff Graham.

August turned back to me, as he was licking some of the icing off his index finger, "Listen kid," he sighed, "the belief that you want to spark in these towns people; it needs to start with you." He rose his finger and poked my chest gently.

"What's that supposed to mean?" I furrowed my brow, watching his sly glances over to the waitress.

"You've gotta believe in it yourself first, Henry," he chuckled, "you always gotta ruin the fun out of deep meanings." He smirked, and punched my shoulder playfully before turning on his heel to make his way over to the Sheriff, Granny, and Ruby.

He always seems to leave out the most important parts of this 'mission' until I need them the most. It frustrated me, but kept me on my toes. I didn't know if that was a good, or a bad thing.

"Regina!" A bright and bubbly voice rose from the far corner where the door was swinging on its hinges. My gaze landed on a smiling blonde, who had a post-it note secured tightly in her palm.

"What is it now Ms. Swan?" I rose a brow, and grinned playfully. I was still bed-ridden, no movement of any sort or Emma would be on my ass and scolding me for trying to lift a damn fingertip. I didn't mind though, I secretly liked being able to relax and just take a break from work. But I had my moments were I wanted to say, 'fuck it' and get up to go get my own food for a day.

"If I weren't so used to nicknames by now, I'd think you were teasing me," Emma carefully sat on the edge of my bed, her twinkling gaze caught mine.

"And what if I was?"

There was an eery silence as Emma's eyes traveled back to mine; like a look of utter surprise. I spoke before I thought, and I could feel the heat rushing to my cheeks as her smile widened. She tucked her head quickly after a few silent moments, focusing back on the neon yellow note in her hand. As if she was trying to hide the bright red that gathered in her face, too. Or, maybe I was just overthinking it.

Why was I thinking like this in the first place?

She cleared her throat, "Anyway-" her voice stuttered, "I know.. this is a sort of- upsetting day for you.. but, I have a surprise." Her wide grin found me again, and caught me in a daze. What was happening?

"Look."

Her palm reached out, revealing 10 handwritten numbers on the yellow paper. I gently grabbed the note from her hand, and examined it carefully. As my eyes scanned the neatly written numerals, I realized how familiar they really were. The neatly drawn swirls, and curves of the numbers written in black ink sunk into my brain, and the realization hit me like a ton of bricks.

"Is this?-" My voice cut short, and I lifted my head to search for Emma's familiar face again.

"I-I managed to find this number... it's located somewhere in a town called Storybrooke? I've never heard of it, it just appeared. Which is weird.. I mean, I searched that town up hundreds of times after you mentioned it and it never popped up-"

"I can call Henry!" I cut her off, and a wide smile spread over my face without my consent. My nine year old's cheesy beam found it's way into my imagination. His dark hair always falling over his eyes, obstructing his vision to the point that every few minutes or so, I'd have to push it back just to see his twinkling eyes. He always hated when I brushed it back, he said it looked weird and he liked it better down, "Would you rather go blind?" I'd always reply back to him with a wink. I could finally hear his voice again, after these days I've been gone. A week has it been? Or maybe even longer, who knew. It sounded absurd, it wasn't like I had been gone for a year - or even a month. But my overthinking mind never stopped turning its gears, which kept me on edge. I practically didn't have any fingernails left.

"I think so," Emma replied, and tilted her head with a smile, "I just hope the number works. I wanted you to be the first one to try."

I inhaled a large breath, and hesitated for a long silent moment. Her eyes searched me, in concern and patience. I was afraid, but by what? Disappointment that the number wasn't going to work? Probably. But I already had my hopes up too far to back out now, and all I wanted was to talk to my son. To hear his voice on the other end of the line yelling, "Mom! I miss you."

"Is everything okay, Regina?" Emma's gentle voice broke through my panic, and my eyes connected with hers.

After a moments pause I spoke, "I want you to do it."

"What?"

"I want you to call the number," I repeated, but as confusion rushed over her face I proceeded to explain myself, "if I call this number, and my son doesn't pick it up... I-"

"I understand Regina," she nodded, and held a gentle palm out to obtain the sticky note, "whatever makes you happy." I swallowed, and handed her the note. She gave me another reassuring smirk, and turned to reach for the telephone next to the hospital bed. I looked to the opposite wall, trying to distract myself - and fiddled with my thumbs in a way a child would. My ears recognized the clicking of the buttons, and the faint ringing of the phone. I tried - oh dear did I try not to listen to the continuous ringing. But everything else in the room seemed to be still and quiet, just to focus on the telephone. My eyes leered away from the white plastered wall, and over to Emma's pale palm wrapped around the phone that was held up to her ear. Her free hand rested on her lap, her fingers twisting and playing with the coiled wire connected to the phone.

The ringing continued for what seemed like hours, while I impatiently listened.

"Hello?" A faint voice spoke from the other end of the telephone, and my heart jumped to my throat. Emma's eyes lit up like fireworks on the fourth of July, and you could see her grip tighten to the machine. For a moment it looked as if she was more excited than I was.

"Hi!" She gasped into the phone, "Uh- my name is Dr. Swan-I mean Emma, my name is Emma Swan," she stuttered terribly, and shifted in her seat, "Anyway.. I was hoping you could tell me if a Henry is there? Henry.. Mills I believe?" She glanced at me, and I nodded eagerly. My hands were pressed deeply into the mattress, trying to raise myself into a sitting position - but I was too weak and still sore. My nerves were on end as I waited for the voice to return.

"In fact, deary - I do." The voice had an accent to it, the oddest and most recognizable voice. Anyone could pin point who the voice belonged to.

"Gold..." I whispered so quietly, only I could hear. But Emma's ears must've been like a hawks because she looked towards me with a furrowed brow.

"Huh?" She covered the end of the phone, and spoke to me in a whisper back. I shook my head, and grinned. I glanced between her green eyes and the phone, hinting that she should really be more focused on the man on the other end instead of my mumbling. She nodded back in agreement, and exhaled a long breath of relief, "Thank goodness," she laughed, "may I- or in this case... his mother would love to speak to him."

"His mother? I reckon a woman by the name of Regina is in your presence," he chuckled.

"Why.. yes, she is. Do you know her?"

"More than I would like, yes deary. She isn't holding you against your will is she?" Emma rose a brow, and her mouth hung open in bewilderment.

"No, why would you say that?" She giggled unstintingly, glancing to me. I shook my head, and rolled my eyes. Of course, he would be the one to say such a thing.

"Just curiosity, love. Now, correct me if I'm wrong - but did you imply that your name is Emma Swan?"

"Yes, that's me.." she sighed, becoming impatient with the overly long conversation, "is that some importance to you or something?" There was a long pause, and Emma and I exchanged muddled looks before the scratchy voice returned.

"I'll go get the boy for you now."

There was the gentle ring of the diner's door swinging open, as another presence manifested itself upon the crowd. Everyone's chatter went silent, and eery eyes began to glue themselves upon the man waltzing through the squeaky door. My feet dangled over the edge of one of the stools as I tried to occupy myself with a vanilla milkshake made to my liking. Ruby's treat. My ears caught the bickering and kind voices stand to a halt, and I became curious. I lifted my head, and my dark eyes caught onto the black suit and grey hair awaiting.

"I'm here for the boy," his raspy voice spoke.

Nervous voices arose, and he shook his head in utter annoyance, "Henry. Your mother, she is waiting patiently for you on the other end of the telephone."

I sat there for a moment, questioning if I had heard him right, or I was just becoming delusional at last. But as everyone's eyes shifted onto me, including Mr. Golds - I knew I had heard him clear as day. I hadn't realized that I was stirring my milkshake nervously with my straw, but as I came to my senses I stopped immediately, and turned in my seat. I grasped the edges of the cushion, and lifted myself off the stool and planted my feet to the ground. I didn't say a word as I began to stroll over to Mr. Golds large and unsettling presence. I made awkward eye contact with many, but as my gaze caught August's I took in a deep breath and had to hold down a grin. I was happy. My mom was alright.

Mr. Gold moved to the side, and gestured for my exit through the diner door. I heedfully made my way past him, and to the outside world around me. Fresh air entered my lungs, and overcame the baked dough and icing. I didn't hear a single footstep behind me, so I glanced over my shoulder in curiosity. Gold stood a few feet away, with his hands folded in front of him. He rose a brow, and nodded to the telephone booth awaiting. I looked ahead of me, and practically skipped to the phone. My small hand grasped it, and it flew to my ear in seconds.

"Mom?" I shouted. My heart was beating so fast I thought I was going to pass out before she could even answer me back. Shuffling came from the other end and a voice from afar spoke, "I guess this is for you.."

There was a moment of silence before a warming voice emerged gracefully, "Henry? Baby?" As those words made their way to me, a large smile formed on my face. I wasn't able to help it, I was so happy to hear that voice again. My mother's voice, that calmed me when I awoke in the middle of the night from a scary dream. Or the voice that read to me until I fell asleep, after many, many stories. In that moment I forgot all about the fairy tales and the big bad Evil Queen, and it was good.

"Mom!" I exclaimed, and jumped in place happily, "Where are you? Are you okay?" Words spat from my mouth against my will. I couldn't hold them back, as hard as I tried.

A gentle chuckle arouse from the other end of the telephone and made its way to me, "Calm down Henry, I'm perfectly fine," her voice soothed my nerves with ease, "I just... I got into a bit of an accident, but I promise you it's nothing to worry about, okay?" The reassurance in her tranquilizing voice made my heart begin to beat at a steady pace again, and set my mind at ease. But I knew her, and I knew that she was making it sound far better than it actually was. But I didn't want to argue.

"When will you be home?" I asked pleadingly, my nine year old instincts and high pitched vocals revealing themselves for the first time since she had left, "I miss you..." I mumbled, a small part of me hoping that, that statement would somehow bring her home quicker.

"Uhm.." she hesitated briefly, and I could hear her shuffling on the other end, "..I'm not sure yet Henry." That wasn't the answer I wanted to hear, and she knew it. I didn't say anything back, I let the silence linger there until she thought of something better to say.

"But hey," her voice rose once more, like I knew it would, "you never gave me the chance to say Happy Birthday," she giggled softly, trying to lighten the mood.

I smiled, gripping the telephone harder, "I've heard it enough today," I snickered back, pausing. This time she gave me the silent treatment, because she knew it would work, "..Fine, go ahead," I sighed, even though I was impatiently waiting for her bright and bubbly 'happy birthday' that I wanted to hear so badly.

"Happy Birthday my little man," she said calmly, but you could hear the emotion and affection in her words - even through a telephone. My lips pulled back into a grin that stretched from ear to ear, and I didn't even try to hold it back, "I miss you with all my heart Henry."

"..I miss you more mom," I whispered.

"Now I don't think that is even remotely possible, but I'll let it pass," she paused, "this time," a giggle erupted once more, which didn't help the smile on my face go away anytime soon. I giggled back, enjoying the temporary time I had to talk to my mother and get her caught up on every little detail, "what have you been up to?" She asked, and I could just imagine the slight squint in her eyes and the tilt of her head as she inquired.

Thousands of thoughts rushed to the front of my mind, waiting in line to be told one by one - but I ushered away a third of them. I couldn't tell her about August, the supposed 'Pinocchio' that had waltzed into her home and into her child's bedroom to talk about bedtime stories. She would flip, and call the police all the way from where she was currently resting - she'd go the whole nine yards to make sure he ended up in our county jail, or maybe somewhere even worse. And lets not even get started on the fairy tales. How could I bring up that I knew she was a former Evil Queen? And that I knew she cursed a towns full of people to suffer for the rest of their no-good lives?

Exactly. I couldn't. So, I stayed silent and talked about something else that I knew she'd be all about.

"Well, Granny and Mary Margaret threw me a surprise party.." I murmured, knowing fully that she despised MM with her entire being. And the fact that MM had contributed to throwing this party for me, my mother would sure put in some sort of word with her - hopefully this time it wouldn't be harsh and cruel. Now the fact that she used to be some sort of evil sorceress, a lot of this made a ton of sense.

"Oh, well isn't that sweet," the statement confused me, but I didn't question it. Not only was the actual declaration unusual, so was the way she had spoke it. It wasn't hatred that lingered in her voice.. it was more... sincere than anything I've ever heard. Maybe she was loopy on some medication or something, but it made the gears in my mind go haywire.

"...Yeah.." I drew out that statement, unsure of how to respond to such a sincere comment. Instead of my own mothers voice responding, there was a chuckle in the background. It was faint, but I could still point it out as someone other than my mothers, "Who's that?" I asked innocently, furrowing my brow.

"Oh-" she stuttered, "that's Emma. She is.. kinda the one who helped me when I got into that accident baby."

The name clicked, but I couldn't pinpoint where I had heard it before right then and there. It took me a few moments of genuine thought and retracing my memories until everything went together like a big old puzzle piece.

"August was right..." I whispered, thinking I would be the only one to hear - completely forgetting the large telephone that was raised and pressed against my ear.

"Hm? Henry, who's August?" She heard, and immediately fired back with the question I was waiting for.

I tried as quickly as I could to save myself, and August, from a hardcore scolding, "Oh! Nobody.. just - a friend from school.. yeah, me and him are really good friends," I was a horrible liar, and she knew that. But I was especially proud of the fib I had just told, I sounded confident in my own ears. And that was all I needed. I waited patiently for her reply back, hoping that she couldn't catch my lying through the crappy audio of a phone. My eyes trailed from the ground, up to the large tree that resided right next to me and kept me cool in the shade. But instead of finding a tree vacated with maybe the occasional squirrel - I found a stubbly bearded man leaning restfully against the side of it, watching me intently. I gasped, frightened by the sudden visitor I didn't expect.

She must've heard my gasp as well; I swear she has ears like a hawk, "Is everything okay, Henry?" There was her concerned voice I heard at least once a day - no less. I was used to it, and sometimes enjoyed how worried she got about me, because it made me feel important and that all of her attention was on me for once.

My eyes widened at August, trying to communicate without all the fancy words, "Oh, yeah! I-I'm fine, a squirrel just scared me that's all-" I recovered twice now, that was a record that I would always remember, "yeah, I'm by that one tree that we always walk by when we head to Granny's, yanno? The one with at least ten squirrels living in it," I forced a laugh, but at least I wasn't lying anymore. We did walk past this tree every time we walked to Granny's for breakfast, and it truly was infested with squirrels. I never knew how many squirrels could live in a tree until I saw this big clump of bark.

"Is that so?" She chuckled, and I smiled. This was the first time in so long, that I had actually had a conversation with her. Normally when she was gone on trips like these she'd call, and maybe a minute later she'd have to go. I couldn't contain the joy that was springing up in my stomach. All I wanted to do was jump up and down and smile until my cheeks were sore. We laughed together for a moment, and in that moment I was happy. Happier than I had ever been, but of course it had to come to an end at some point, "..I think I've got to go, Henry.." I heard the disappointment and sadness that manifested itself in her voice as she spoke.

My mouth hung open, searching for words just to be able to talk to her for a little longer, "When can you call again?" I pleaded like a child, the innocence returning to my voice.

"How about this," there was her normal voice again, it was upbeat, but still soothing as ever, "I'll call my office at.. how about - 6 pm. I'll try to call everyday, but no promises. The more rest I get, the quicker I'll be home," my heart leaped into my throat and all I wanted to do was squeal in joy. No more separation, no more lonely nights without the reassurance that my mother wasn't sleeping just a few doors over in her bed. I had something to look forwards to, besides meeting up with August every now and then.

"That sounds.. awesome," I squealed, failing miserably at containing my excitement, "I love you momma," I whispered, pouring my entire heart into that one small meaningful sentence. Because I knew it would be the last thing I'd say to her for a bit of time, and I wanted it to be something she would remember and smile at.

"I love you too, my little prince," she whispered back, her words bubbling over with emotion, making my heart skip a beat and a bright smile spread to my face, "talk to you soon.." I heard her classic, 'Mwah!' into the phone, and then the line was silent. And as quickly as it went silent, I wanted her back on the other end talking to me about how her day went. Even if she had spent it mostly in a hospital bed, or wherever she was. I took my time putting the telephone back onto it's hook, a little part of me wishing she would call back - maybe realizing that she didn't have to go so suddenly and had a little more time for me. But that never happened, so I exhaled one of the largest breaths I've ever took and put the telephone back where it belonged.

Out of the corner of my eye I saw the bristly bearded man shift his weight and turn his body towards me. I didn't even have to leer my gaze away from the coiled telephone wire to see that his lips parted, ready to either say something super important - or to make a sly sarcastic comment. He was really good at that last one, no doubt. I decided to speak before he could, just so I could get my statement across with no trouble and short talk.

"You weren't lying," I murmured, barely raising my head to gaze up at the former wooden man.

He stuffed his fists into his leather jacket pockets, like he always did when he felt uncomfortable or reserved, "...I know kid," he glanced between the soil and my timid countenance, until his gaze was fully stuck and focused on me. My head unhurriedly hoisted upwards so I could entirely scan August's emotions and comprehend the words he spoke better.

"I guess now, you don't have to worry about me not believing," I forced a chuckle, my shoulders heaving up and down as I laughed. A bashful grin spread across his lips, as he tried to contain a giggle, too. He was still a kid at heart, you could just see it. His shy movements, and sarcastic and sometimes even inappropriate comments were a large indicator. He may of looked like a hardcore biker on the outside, but on the inside he was a soft snugly boy who liked to run free and do whatever he pleased.

"I guess so," he chortled, and his gaze veered off towards the settled telephone, "I told you she'd be okay."

"Yeah..." I shrugged, gaping at the unattended phone as well, "..thank you," I muttered, my eyes landing back on the sardonic man just a foot away from me now. His brow knit together, and his eyes did the questioning for him, "I mean, thank you.. for telling me all of this. Yeah, it kinda made me freak out a little bit but.. it feels nice to know that someone is looking out for me." I shoot my head, the awkwardness spreading like a poisonous gas throughout my limbs. I never opened up to anyone much, besides my mother and MM. Little did my mother know, when she actually put her full attention on a person and genuinely listened to them.. she was one of the best listeners I knew. MM on the other hand, always puts her full and direct awareness on the person who is speaking, which can be a good thing. But, the thing with MM is that - she is a very controlling person at times. Whatever she says is the best choice in her eyes, even if it sounds absolutely ridiculous in another's. So to have August here just listening and actually paying attention to each word I spoke without any input - it felt nice.

"There's no need to thank me Henry," his head swung side to side, "if anything, I really should be thanking you."

"Why's that?" I asked, confused.

He pulled his fists from his pockets, and took the last few steps closer to me to diminish the empty space between us. His palms opened, and he set them gently on my shoulders like a father figure would do to his son in the midst of a hope speech, "Because," he paused, as if I should know what he was actually talking about, "you're the own who.. lets just say - is going to begin the end. Without you.. this town would be stuck under a curse for all of eternity," he tilted his head to the side, "without you, Emma.. nor your mother would be where they are today. And that's together."

I furrowed my brow, befuddled, "You mean.. because she's my moms nurse?" I questioned, trying to make as much sense to his statement as my nine year old brain possibly could.

August shifted on his feet and his shoulders ascended upwards a few inches and back down in a shrug, "Yeah, somethin' like that," a corner of his lip pulled back to reveal a duplicitous grin that I didn't like at all. His unforthcoming utterance pulled at my strings in the most uncomfortable of ways, making equipage in my mind turn and work to uncover the actual meaning of what he was trying to say - but all I wanted to do was ask him more questions, maybe having the truth slip from his lips without his consent. But his strong arm wrapped around my shoulders, and turned me towards Granny's, "now how about we go enjoy the rest of your birthday party Mary Margaret worked so hard on," he said softly, glimpsing down at me before our feet started guiding us back to the scrubbed glass doors of the diner.

"Why'd you tell him you had to go?" My voice had risen at least a thousand octaves, just asking that innocent question in fret that it would somehow offended her in one way or another - and that was the last thing I ever wanted to do. I had helped her sit up, because she still wasn't fully able to do it on her own, so she could actually breath and feel like a normal person again.

"I-" she paused, her fingers were still fidgeting with the curled telephone wire, as if she was awaiting a call back as soon as possible, "I know that... if I talked on that phone for any longer -" with the shake of her head, her short dark locks barely skimmed her collar bones, ".. I'd just miss him more." Her voice had went from confident and emphatic to low and sorrowful, and as she spoke those last five words I realized how much she actually cared to hear just a slither of her child's voice. It warmed my heart, but at the same time it was heartbreaking. To be so far away from your child must've been tough, especially if just a few days ago you didn't know whether you'd be coming home or not to see them again. As soon as she had picked up that phone and heard that overwhelming exclamation of joy in her son's voice, I saw that darkness in her eyes vanish. Maybe it was just the sunlight peaking through the curtains, or maybe it wasn't. I hadn't seen her that happy and exuberant the entire time she had been in this groggy hospital, but I couldn't blame her. This place had it's ups and downs, sometimes more downs than I'd like - but it was where I felt at home sometimes. My shitty one - room apartment wasn't much of a cozy place to stay at times. But ever since Regina had been rolled through these doors I felt like I was attached to this crumbling building, like I could never leave unless I knew she was alright. And that was fine with me.

"I understand, Regina.." I responded as sympathetic as possible, trying my best to show her how much I cared - which I did care.. a lot. I wasn't always the best at showing emotion, and that was pretty cynical considering I was a doctor. Doctors had to give bad news sometimes, which required emotion to be given - along with deaths that happen and dealing with emotional people 24/7. How in the hell did I even get this job? I leered at her, watching as her eyes began to trail over to mine in what seemed to be shock. Shock?

She had knit her brow together before speaking, "..Why are you so nice to me?" Her stern facial expression softened completely as she muttered those few words. She had deflated from her big bad role, and just became.. Regina.

"Well, I am your doctor for one.." I giggled, trying to lighten the mood, "but.. I guess it's because I feel like you deserve it." I exhaled deeply, trying to release the tension in my nerves. Why was I nervous, again? Possibly because after I had revealed my 'secret' to being so nice to the brunette, she had shot a gratifying smile towards me - like she had never heard such words in her life. Didn't she ever receive compliments? I mean, look at her - she's perf-

"Well.. thank you," she spoke up, her head lowered the slightest bit as I saw a red tint manifest itself on her cheeks.

"For what?" I rose a brow, the corners of my lips pulling tightly back revealing a shy smile.

Regina shrugged, or at least to the best of her ability as she was still stuck and immobile in a cast that wrapped securely around her torso, "For.. everything," she beamed, "nobody has ever been.. so kind to me - I mean, you barely know me, yet.. I don't know, maybe I'm just overreacting," she shook her head swiftly, trying to brush off whatever mistakes she had made in that sentence.

"No, no.. not at all," I tried to inspirit her, nothing she had voiced was exaggerated or over the top. In my eyes, she had made no mistake at all. Her golden eyes glanced around nervously, as if she had never really thanked a person before - but obviously that wasn't true. She was nervous, and it made my heart beat faster in my chest for no apparent reason at all, "hey," I spoke softly, lifting my palm and resting it on top of hers like the many times before. Her fingers were fiddling anxiously with the hospital bed covers - gripping the sheet and messing with the lace. But as my cold palm rested above hers, they immediately stopped - relaxing under my touch, "you can always talk to me, don't be nervous or hesitate to tell me anything - because.. I'm not only your doctor - I'm your friend, too.." I swallowed, it was my turn to be skittish and tense.

Her chocolate eyes were glued to our relaxed palms, but soon gradually made their way to my own emerald green eyes. They lingered there for a moment, that felt like years - but I couldn't look away, like I was being hallucinated in some weird way. Her pink lips parted but words weren't spoken right away. I had to restrain myself from taking a glimpse at her plump lips - but they were so close.

"..You thought we were friends?" I was shook from my daze, and comprehended her words quite quickly. My mind hopped between the feeling of being offended by that question, or just simply shaking it off because maybe she was just as shocked as I was when I assumed that we were more than just a doctor and a patient.

"Well.. yeah, I mean.. if you don't wanna be that - that's perfectly fine. I guess I just.. assumed.." I trailed off. My mind was so busy working to conjure up a reason why I had thought such a thing, I didn't happen to realize the ear to ear smile that was inhabiting on Regina's flawless face, "what?" I asked, knitting my brow together and releasing a forced chuckle. I had no idea what was happening, and it made me feel like a deer in the headlights. I needed to start thinking before I spoke, but I truly couldn't help it. There was something about her.. the way her dark eyes lit up and changed to a golden sky in the sun rays glow, or the way her smile could either scare the living shit out of a towns full of people, or warm the hearts of a million different people.. I wasn't sure yet - but I was sure enjoying the ride of figuring it out.

A giggle escaped her punctured lungs, "Nothing, it's just..." she paused, and I felt those orbs of beauty and glow scan across my skin before she spoke once more, "I've never really.. had a friend before.." her statement took me by complete and utter surprise, which I was guessing showed prominently on my face by the way she reacted, "I'm sorry.. that sounded - ridiculous," she shook her head once more, and tucked a piece of loose hair behind her ear shyly.

I immediately squeezed her hand gently for some form of comfort, "No, no it's not - it was just a bit shocking to hear that's all. I mean, look at you!" I exclaimed, and continued to talk before she could even react to my proclamation, "You're... stunning!" Think before you speak Emma, "A-and, you're a mayor for gods sake! Everyone knows you, come on. There is no way in hell that you've never had a friend before." There is was again, my dumb ass rambling - trying to fix mistakes and make it seem less.. creepy? I guess.

She rolled her dark eyes in a sarcastic manner, just like Jefferson would at points. Jefferson. I forgot to tell her - and I really did want to, but she cut me off before my mouth could start moving, "Well thank you, Miss Swan.. but no, I'm kind of a loner.. and I guess I prefer to be alone sometimes."

"I really thought we were done with the nicknames, Madam Mayor," I rose a brow, trying to force back a smile but failing miserably. It got a gentle beam to arouse from her, which made it all worth it. Behind all the smiles and giggles, was my thoughts and doubts about Jefferson. I wanted - no, I needed to tell someone.. to just talk. But I wasn't sure if Regina would be that person. Considering it was her son's birthday that she'd be missing, and she had just come from surgery just a few nights ago - I didn't want to ramble on and on about me. She didn't need anymore depressing news given to her, well hell - maybe it wouldn't even be depressing to her. She never knew Jefferson, he was just a doctor who barely did his job. All he did was come in late to surgeries, sneak snacks in his pockets and call everyone their classic nicknames that they were provided. Nothing more. He never visited his patients, to check up on them and see how they were doing - he merely just didn't care. Part of me was glad for his sudden disappearance. I thought that maybe the hospital was going to be okay without him, and that he was probably off a few states down flirting with a girl in a bar. Classic Jefferson anyway. But another part of me imagined horrific scenes and kidnappings - maybe he was hurt? Who knew. Nobody did. Not even I, who was the closest thing he had to a friend here.

He vanished - literally vanished. After he had his 'freak out' during Regina's surgery, he was just.. gone. He had just dematerialized into thin air, like magic. The last glimpse I had seen of him was when he had swung open the operating room doors full force, and marching down the hall - infuriated. I didn't chase after him, or tell him I'm sorry - nothing. He was the one who needed to apologize, and I was willing to wait for that cheesy, "I'm sorry." But it never came. Instead he left, just abandoning his job, his family, and his friends. Everyone was worried, missing sign posters went up on the walls and on the streets - but of course Regina couldn't see that. Even if she did, it probably wouldn't faze her. They were never even properly introduced. Yet, he acted as if she was this evil being that would ruin the earth for good. The whole situation had me on edge.

"Is something bugging you, Emma?" I was reeled back from my jumbled mind, and back into the real breathing world. I didn't happen to realize Regina's eyes locked onto mine, like she was searching for every thought that had captured my attention for so long. My jaw hung open, as I pry'd myself for a reason. Something, besides Jefferson. It wouldn't make a difference if I told her or not - it wasn't something that she needed to know. She'd find out sooner or later, anyway. At least once she could finally stand up and get out of that shitty bed.

"Oh, no - I'm fine," I jumbled past my words foolishly, "sometimes, I just... get caught up in my thoughts," I pushed a chuckle from my lungs, wanting to get past the topic or else I'd spill about Jefferson and his disappearing act. Regina rose a brow, as if she was about to give me the same speech I had given her just a few minutes back. There was a small gust of wind, and the blinds that horridly covered the tiny window fluttered in the breeze. I could see the sunset through the slits in the blinds, the orange, yellow and red glow illuminating through the white plastic thoroughly. I pushed myself from the end of her bed, and trudged over to the open window. I stuck my arms under the blinds, and felt around for the very top of the pane. Once my fingertips wrapped around the indent, I used a slither of my strength to push it down and separated the cold air outside from the rubber glove scented room on the inside.

"Well.. my shift is ending kinda early today," I exhaled, turning to face the mayor once more. I stuck my palms into the small vacated holes that they called pockets in my scrubs, "you think you'd be okay for the night?" One corner of my lip pulled back, flashing a grin towards the brunette. I knew that she was fully capable of taking care of herself, even if she was bed-ridden.

"Quit teasing, Swan," she tried to suppress her grin, but soon had a smile that stretched ear to ear. I couldn't help but shoot one back. I strided back over to the side of her bed, her eyes watching every move I made like a predator about to pounce on its prey. I pulled the covers down just a few inches, and wrapped my arm around her waist that was secured tightly by a cast. I took my other arm and swaddled it around her shoulder gently. I lifted her just the slightest bit off the mattress, and moved her body downwards to where she could sleep properly and comfortably for the rest of the night until I got back in the morning.

"I'll be back in the morning to check on you," I said, carefully grabbing the covers once more and pulling them up to cover her body and keep her warm and snug all night. I knew how badly it must've sucked to be stuck in a cast that basically engulfed half of your body and kept you stiff as a rock. So I tried to work with my resources to try and keep her as comfortable as possible.

"So you're my babysitter, too?" Regina rose her brow, with a grin plastered on her face.

"Me? The Mayors babysitter, friend, and doctor - oh my, I'm flattered!" I smiled, the sarcasm overflowing through my voice. We both laughed, and I continued to basically tuck her in like a child.

"Well you should be, anyone would be flattered to.. tuck in their Mayor," she burst into a fit of giggles and laughter, as did I.

"Of course, Madam Mayor," I chuckled, standing up straight again; Regina's eyes following me, "I'll see you tomorrow then.. goodnight Regina," I nodded, taking small steps backwards and towards the door.

"Goodnight Miss Swan," she beamed. This time it was her turn to tease, apparently. I tilted my head, and lifted a brow, "ugh, fine," we both giggled, knowing well that I wasn't going to leave without a proper goodnight. She ran a swift hand through her silky hair, and licked her lips.

"Goodnight, Emma."

The weeks flew by, and soon a month was gone. The constant visiting from home and then back to the hospital was a bit exhausting - but was completely worth it. Everyday you could see the light in Regina's eyes get brighter and brighter, and her body healing more and more by the second. I would visit her every single day, even on my days off. Just to keep her company, because I knew nobody else would. It seemed that everyone in the hospital had realized it, too. On my days off, I didn't have to sign in or anything anymore - they'd let me walk right past the front desk with the nod of a head and I would stride right back to room 108, where the flawless brunette rested. People usually kept their distance, giving us our time I guess. Regina got to call Henry almost everyday, at exactly 6 o'clock. She wouldn't wait a minute later, or call a minute before. And he would always answer. I had to be like a strict parent at times, trying to get her to give him a break sometimes - he was still a kid. I told that if she called too many times, by the time that she got home their cute little reunion they'd have wouldn't be so special. At least in my eyes it wouldn't, but considering how into her child she was - she could leave to go to the store, come back and they could recreate the most dramatic and heartwarming reunion in the history of reunions. But, when she did call Henry, they talked for hours on end. I would sit back and listen, or I'd play board games by myself that she was supposed to be partaking in. Sometimes I'd sit till midnight and just listen to her talk, until I could say goodnight and head home - but on other nights, when she was missing him more than usual, I'd stay.

Her recovery was going well. Very well, actually. She was able to sit up on her own, without that pesky cast getting in her way, and restricting her airways. The tube that was inserted into her lung the first day that she had arrived here was able to be removed just a few days ago. She had a few issues here and there, but once she got used to breathing normally again - she enjoyed the freedom from the tube far more. She was even able to stand up and walk around, now. As long as she was careful, and I was around just in case. Of course, from not being on her feet for such a long period of time, it was difficult the first few rounds. But once I was there, and had my arm secured around her middle back to help keep her steady, she seemed to be just fine after an hour or two. We did a few x-rays and scans every once and a while, and every time her ribs seemed to be getting progressively better. They were still healing, but they were healing well. Her spinal fracture had healed almost completely with only minor aches that medication could heal in a second, and some stiffness, but that was normal. Bruising and stitching trailed down her spine, on her upper right side from the collapsed lung and somewhere near her right side from her broken ribs. I knew she hated the scars that were to come, and the dark marks - but I reassured her almost everyday that they soon wouldn't even be noticeable and even if they were - she'd still be as flawless as ever.

The broken bones in her left foot were perfectly back to normal now, as it was only a minor fracture that needed a cast for maybe a week or two. But the infection was still there, still lingering. It came and went as it pleased, but I made sure to keep a stern eye on it just in case. You never knew with infection whether it could be dangerous or barely anything at all. It frightened me, but I never let her know that. Whenever I checked on it, I usually took mental notes and wrapped it back up just how it was. Regina didn't seem to mind either, I'd like to think that she didn't want to talk about it anyway and thought that everything was dandy and good. On the more bright and exciting side of things, I always looked forward to Tuesdays. Those were Regina and I's movie nights, where we would just sit and watch whatever films we pleased - and ignored the rest of the world for a moment. I'd go and pick up some snacks from the store, and waltz into her room with bags full of candy, chips, and sweets. It may not of been good for Regina's health, but I let her have a few snacks here and there whenever she asked. Who was I to say no to a mayor? Or bond had traveled through many stages, and sky rocketed farther than I had ever hoped. We had went from acquaintances, to doctor and patient, to friends and even best friends in a mere few weeks.

And I loved it.

I would hear stories around the office that whenever someone would walk by her room for whatever reason, all they'd hear was giggling, laughter and chatter. Which was probably true, considering we never stopped talking when we were together. She was like this orb of positivity and gracefulness. I still didn't believe that she had never had a friend in her life. She was this super easy person to talk to, and to just let everything off of your chest that had been piling up since day one. And as much as you revealed, she always seemed to have more. I learned a lot about her mother and father, some things weren't so happy, but every once in a while while she told me stories, she'd remember something - and it would be a beautiful memory, that she went into depth and detail with. Sometimes she'd skip past years of her life, and wouldn't touch on a lot of it - which made my mind crawl and want to learn more. But I kept my thoughts to myself, and was grateful for the things she'd tell me. And the bond we made... I wouldn't change it for the world. She just.. understood me better than anyone else did. And I understood her. I think we both were grateful for each other's company. And that's something I haven't felt in years.

Jefferson was still gone, like he had just left and joined the shadows. The longer he was gone, the more I began to worry. And no matter how many times I told myself to stop and think that maybe he left on purpose, and was enjoying life somewhere else - I just couldn't shake the fact that something bad was going to happen. Or maybe, it already did. I blamed myself for some point in time, but soon got over it and realized that - he was the one who left. It had nothing to do with me. It was his choice, not mine. I still didn't tell Regina about it, no matter how badly it bothered me and tugged at my skin like some sort of rampaged animal. It was something I kept to myself, and I didn't know why. Good reasoning, right? Neither did I tell her about the boy in the crash. I planned to, but the day I was going to suck it up and do it - was her sons birthday, and I couldn't push myself to give her such bad news on such an important day. The large blue truck that had crashed head on to her, was owned by a young teenage boy who had, had a few too many drinks earlier that day. The reason he drank so early? We had no idea. With no seat belt, or any sign of resistance, he died on impact. Regina didn't know, and I planned on keeping it that way until she brought it up. It was a sensitive thing. She would think it was all her fault no matter how many times I'd try and reassure her that he was the one who was overly drunk, and he was the one in the wrong lane. But knowing Regina after all these weeks, she wouldn't listen, and she'd hold her ground even if it hurt her far worse.

My palms gripped the steering wheel tighter, the leather squeaking under my grasp. It was maybe an hour or two past midnight, I wasn't keeping track anymore. I had left the hospital and said goodnight to Regina maybe four or five hours ago, thinking I would go straight home and plop right into my cozy bed. But my plans seemed to change quickly. Fifteen or so minutes before I had planned to leave, I was doing the same thing I always did each time I saw her. I'd help her out of bed, and we'd walk around the room once or twice just to get her legs some form of exercise and movement. Lately, she has been able to walk with just a gentle palm resting on my shoulder for some balance just in case. We'd chat and have a good laugh every once in a while when she would grip my shoulder tightly when she thought she was about to fall. But this time, she seemed to be focused more on the conversation than her footsteps. Because somehow, someway - her leg gave out for too long of a moment and her grip on my shoulder slipped. My reflexes were quicker than I ever thought - as I felt her weight shift dramatically, I turned and my arms reached out, wrapping themselves around her casted torso, and just above her shoulder blades. Her soft palms reached out, and grasped tightly onto my scrubs. It was like slow motion, but happened so quickly I didn't realize what had happened. I lifted her back up slowly, and gently setting her back on her feet the way she was just moments before. My hand wrapped around the side of her waist, making sure she was balanced - and waited until her breathing was closer to normal.

"Are you okay there?" I asked, glancing between her feet and her eyes with a chuckle.

"Yeah, yeah - I'm alright.." she exhaled deeply, "I guess I just.. wasn't paying attention," her laugh filled my ears - and it was all I was focused on for the second it lasted. I remember locking my eyes with hers, scanning them - and making sure she wasn't lying to me about being okay. But after a few moments passed, I found myself still gazing and getting lost in her chocolate brown eyes. As was she in mine. There was no sound, besides the ticking of a clock on the far side of the room. My eyes slowly veered to her parted lips, but immediately pulling them away, knowing the mistake I had just made. I was sure she had seen it, too. But all she did was continue gazing, and swallowed nervously. I took in a deep breath, and she shifted on her feet, "..Well... thank you, Miss Swan." She took a small step back, and I retracted my hand from her waist. I was used to the nickname now, she used it all the time and I absolutely loved it. I wasn't sure if she enjoyed the occasional 'Madam Mayor' comment, but I used it anyway. There was something in her eyes, that drew me closer - but I stayed where I stood, and let her fix her footing and set her palm back on my shoulder.

My headlights lit up the space before me, as I drove down the vacated roads that nobody ever used. I could speed as fast as i wanted, because no sheriffs ever bothered to come down here, considering they thought that everyone preferred highways and busy roads now a days. But me, I rode these roads whenever I needed a break - no matter the time or day. I would speed, or maybe even park sometimes to just sit and think. It was completely silent down here, besides the shuffling of grass and crickets chirping. None of it bothered me though, it was relaxing. But this time, my nerves seemed to be on the edge of exploding. I didn't understand my feelings anymore, they were just these burdens that came into my life and wrecked it. Constantly. It was just the way she looked up at me when I caught her, and the way her lips parted as if she was going to confess something to me before I ruined the chance. I was overreacting, I knew I was. But I still couldn't help it.

There was a buzzing, then a tone. It was a familiar tone, that made me jump up in my seat. The buzzing went on repeatedly, as did the the tone. It was my cellphone.

"What the hell.." I muttered to myself, as I stretched my arm all the way other to the passenger seat where the luminescence of my phone was lit up and buzzing. I grasped it with a sigh, and glanced between the road and the screen in front of me. I was getting a call. A call? At what.. three in the morning now? I squinted my eyes, to focus on the lettering on the top of the screen.

It read, 'Work' which by the way, also had a gun, and a heart emoji appearing next to it. I was a bit bipolar when it came to my job. I loved and I hated it with all my heart - but that was life I guess.

I groaned before answering, and raising the phone to my ear, "Hello?" My voice was groggy, and cracked multiple times in just one word. I was exhausted, they probably wouldn't even realize that I hadn't been to bed at all with how tired my voice sounded. A young womans voice came through the other end. I recognized it. It was the short nurse that I didn't bother to learn her name, the one who would check on Regina daily when I wasn't there. Oh shit, Regina.

"Dr. Swan, sorry to wake you, but we need you down here immediately. It seems as if the infection in Ms. Mills left foot has come back. But this time.. this time it's not so good Dr.," her professional speech slowly turned into a worried nurse, which I had expected. I slammed on the brakes, my yellow bug jolting to a halt. The heart in my chest began to beat irregularly, and harder. My face went cold, as did my body - like I was the one with the infection instead of Regina. That fucking infection.

"I-is she okay? Is she conscious, what the hell happened?" I rose my voice, but quickly brought it back down, knowing all she was trying to do was help.

"I went to do my hourly checkup, and she has a horrendous fever Dr. Please hurry. W-we believe it's critical."

I paused, silence taking over both lines and just leaving the utter shock and wretched air to breath, "I-I.." I was hyperventilating, "tell her I'm on my way."

And with that, I hung up the phone - throwing it wherever my hand felt, and speeding faster than I ever had on those gravel roads back towards Regina.