See End of chapter for A/N

Emma sat in her car outside her apartment building while she sent a text to her son. The sound of a gentle tap on the passenger window caught her attention. Leaning over the seat, she opened the door.

"Hello, I have been informed that you may be of assistance to me." The brunette she'd met earlier bent down and spoke to her through the open door. Emma had no idea who had told her she would be any help, or what the woman may need.

"Okay, how can I help?" Emma queried with some confusion. Perhaps this woman needed to find someone, Emma thought. As a bail bonds person, finding people was what she did.

"I am in need of a number of supplies from a Mall" the brunette began with some uncertainty. "I was told that if I found a yellow car, it would escort me there." Emma Swan wasn't always the most trusting person, so she eyed the stranger sceptically. She could detect that there as something different about this woman, but couldn't quite put her finger on what it was. After studying the other woman for a moment and sensing no hint of a lie, she decided to offer her help.

"I think you're looking for a taxi, but I'm heading out anyway so I can give you a ride." Emma gestured for the other woman to get into the passenger seat, "You can get in." The brunette seemed a bit unsure as she hesitated, before getting inside the car and shutting the door. "I'll need to pick up my son first. I'll drop you there on the way back home if that's alright with you."

"That's fine" was the reply as Emma started the engine. She grabbed her seatbelt, putting it in place; indicating for the other woman to do the same. The brunette stared at Emma through questioning eyes before fastening her own with some difficulty. Pulling off from the parking spot, Emma heard a sharp intake of breath. Turing to her passenger, she observed wide eyes and clenched fists.

"Not good with these busy streets, huh?" Emma asked the obviously anxious woman. "I get it. I don't really like driving in the city." Emma beeped her horn a few times at the car which cut her up, "Asshole" she mumbled under her breathe.

The brunette hummed noncommittally. Clearly she wasn't listening to Emma during her moment of panic. "What is this- this metal deathtrap?"

"Whoah, Lady. We don't talk about the bug like that. This baby has been good to me," Emma said, only somewhat jokingly, as she stroked the dashboard of her trusty yellow beetle. "It's like my second child."

The pair sat in silence for a few minutes. The nervous passenger's anxiety noticeably started to ease as she stared out of the car window with fascination. Emma drove a few blocks before getting caught in traffic. Deciding she ought to properly introduce herself to her new neighbour; Emma cleared her throat and spoke, "It's Emma by the way. Emma Swan." Met by silence, she continued as she turned to look at the brunette, " I, uh, I don't think I introduced myself earlier. It's Regina right?"

"That's correct, Miss Swan" Regina replied before turning back to look at the street outside. Emma decided that trying to continue a conversation was pointless; opting to switch the radio on instead.

xxxxxxx

Ten minutes later the car came to a stop. Regina's first time in a car was quite the unusual experience. Once the initial trepidation was over, it was actually rather exhilarating. Watching the world whizz by had brought back a sense of childlike wonderment that she hadn't felt in a long time.

Henry jumped happily into the back seat of the car and greeted both women in the front. Regina acknowledged the young boy and sat quietly, observing the exchange between Mother and son.

"Hey kid, have a good game?" Emma said looking at her son before once again putting the car into motion.

"Yeah, we won two nil. That's my third clean sheet in a row." Henry beamed, proud of his goalkeeping record. He hadn't played any sport before arriving in New York but, recently signed up for Soccer practice where he discovered a natural talent in goal.

"Good job, Kid. We'll get ice-cream to celebrate." Emma smiled back at her son, "I'm dropping Regina off at the mall anyway, so we'll go to Scarlet's."

"Awesome, but…" Henry said with a mischievous smirk, "technically you owe me an ice-cream anyway. So, I probably should get two scoops." Emma rolled her eyes but conceded to the child's superior logic. "You wanna get ice-cream with us, Regina?" He asked the mute passenger.

Startled by the offer and inclusion in the conversation, Regina didn't answer right away. Instead, she stared, slightly shocked, between mother and son. Emma interpreted the lack of response as the other woman not knowing how to politely turn down her son's offer. Intervening, she replied to Henry, "I'm sure Regina will be too busy, Henry. She has other things she needs to do." To which Regina nodded, taking her cue to answer.

"Yes, I have a number of items to purchase. But thank you for your kind offer, Henry" she gave the boy a small smile in return. She was genuinely touched by the thoughtfulness; kindness was not something she was accustomed to in her old land. Regina had only been in this new world a matter of hours and yet, she had received more goodwill than she could remember in her lifetime.

xxxxxxx

A short while later, they arrived at their destination. Mother and son chatted animatedly about their day and plans for the evening as they made their way through the main entrance. Regina followed soundlessly attempting to take in her surroundings; it was another completely alien experience for her.

Regina was mesmerised by the rows of storefronts showcasing their wares. The clothing on display was so different to that she was familiar with; it was much simpler in style than the lavish gowns she had worn as a monarch, but in its own way, just as exquisite. As they walked further on, she passed food stalls with delicious aromas and mouth-wateringly tempting produce. It was a startling contrast between this well illuminated, indoor mall and the dire marketplace of the enchanted forest; there wasn't an apothecary or blacksmith in sight.

"…department store over there. Just ask for help from one of the staff if you can't find something. We'll be in Scarlet's Diner opposite if you need us." Regina focused on the blonde that she hadn't initially realised was speaking. She then looked at the store to which the other woman referred; it appeared to be one of the largest in the building.

"Thank you, Miss Swan. I appreciate all your help." Regina responded once she regained her composure. This whole experience was proving to be rather daunting. Emma nodded in acknowledgement before turning to leave. Henry waved goodbye to Regina as he made his way into the diner behind his mother. Regina turned towards to store she was about to enter; raking her eyes up and down the three storey building. She let out a breath as she gathered herself, she was a Queen. She didn't get intimidated by things as trivial as purchasing objects. Striding purposefully, Regina entered the store and instantly stopped when she took in the vast array of items it contained. There were large crowds wandering around the never ending store, placing a variety of items into the baskets they held. How would she ever be able to find what she need in here? About to turn and leave, Regina heard a deep voice address her.

"Excuse me, Ma'am, is there anything I can help you with?" A young man, no older than his early twenties, and wearing a shirt and tie spoke to Regina.

"Yes, there is. I am in need of clothing and items for my new apartment, and I have no idea how to find them in this place." Regina responded grateful of the assistance but maintaining her abrupt, regal front.

"That's no problem. We offer a personal shopper service at our store. Would that be something you'd be interested in?" The young man replied to a relieved Regina.

"What exactly would this entail?"

"One of our specialist staff will find out what you require and bring some options to show you; it's then up to you whether or not you wish to purchase them," the store worker explained. "I can request for someone to come down and see you if you'd like, Ma'am," Regina responded in the affirmative. He then proceeded to speak into a black device; requesting a personal shopper at the front of the store. "If you wait in these seats here, April will be down shortly to assist you." The store assistant showed Regina to the waiting area, "Have a good day, Ma'am" and he departed with a warm smile.

xxxxxxx

Three hours later, Regina arrived back at her apartment building laden with bags. Her first time shopping in her new land had been wonderful- she may even be inclined to say fun. She had purchased a number of the outfits that had been recommended to her by April, all of which Regina loved. She also managed to buy several other necessities she had been told she would require in this realm. As Regina passed through the food court, she couldn't resist buying a few delicious looking pastries too; the apple turnovers, as they were labelled, were particularly appealing. It had amazed Regina how much she was able to buy with the paper money, or dollars as she had later been informed, she had received for some of her gold. She had decided to arrange another appointment the following week with April, as she would certainly be requiring more clothing than she currently had.

Regina entered her bedroom and placed the heavy load she had been carrying on the floor- before she could do anything else there was something she had to do. Something she had not yet done in this land. She entered the pristine, white bathroom and studied the variety of porcelain apparatuses within it. She turned taps, pushed buttons and gasped in astonishment at readily available, free flowing hot and cold water. Regina wondered when the marvels of this world would cease to amaze her.

After stowing away her new purchases and making the bed, Regina sat down at the dining table and inspected the contents of the bag she had travelled with. She unwrapped the food she'd been given and ate it ravenously. It had been a long day! Once she had finished her small meal and cleared up, Regina took out the leather-bound book, quill and ink. It was fortunate that she'd had the foresight to write down the location of her current accommodation, or she would never have found her way back, this time in an actual taxi. As she began making some notes on her day so far, remembering to include her next appointment with the personal shopper, there was a knock at the door.

Regina had no idea who would be visiting her, perhaps it was Mrs Peters needing her to sign more contracts. As the knocking continued, she got up and cautiously made her way to unlatch the door. Upon opening it, she discovered a beaming smile and friendly eyes looking up at her.

"Hi, I've brought this for you," Henry said as he handed over a small piece of paper, "I know it's a bit short notice, but I still wanted to ask." Regina looked down at the paper quizzically; it was a colourful handmade note which read:

You are invited to the surprise 30th birthday party of Emma Swan !

It will be at our apartment on October 23rd at 8 pm.

From Henry

P.S. Remember- Do not to tell her !

As Regina read the note, the boy babbled in the background, "It's only going to be Me, Ma, Mable and her Grandson Paul. We don't really know many people here- Ma doesn't have work friends or anything. I mean, there is that one guy who she's been on a couple of dates with. But I think she thinks I don't know about him." He looked at Regina expectantly as she finished reading the invitation. When she didn't offer a response he continued "Anyway, it starts in fifteen minutes; Paul has taken her out for a drink while we set up. So are you coming?" Regina's immediate reaction would ordinarily have been an outright refusal; probably with a condescending remark and a sneer. She generally had no interest in something so frivolous. But as she looked down at Henry, who had such hope in his eyes, she just couldn't bring herself to do it.

"I - I- don't have anything to bring." Regina offered as an excuse, trying to let the boy down gently, "I wouldn't want to show up empty-handed." Henry dismissed this with absolute certainty.

"You've only just met us so it's not like she'd expect a present or anything. She'd just be happy you came."

"I don't have enough time to get ready, and probably nothing suitable to wear."

"It's nothing fancy, you look nice as you are." Regina couldn't help the smile that broke out. She could already tell that none of her excuses would work with the sweet, stubborn young boy. She could just shut the door and put an end to the conversation, but instead she conceded; something she was not accustomed to.

"In that case, I will attend. Thank you for your invitation." Henry let out a whoop as he punched the air, to which Regina couldn't hold back her amusement as she let out a laugh, "I shall see you soon, Henry."

"See ya," Henry said as he turned to leave. "Oh yeah, I almost forgot. We are in 311 on the third floor."

Regina watched as he left down the hall before shutting the door. This day was just full of surprises.

xxxxxxx

Celebrating her birthday wasn't something Emma did, ever. She didn't get birthday parties growing up and she rarely received birthday presents. So to her, turning thirty would be a non-event. Tonight she had gone out for drinks with Paul; however, that was just a coincidence because he had no idea that today was her birthday, let alone her thirtieth. A few beers and an hour later, Paul received a call from his Grandmother.

"Hello Gran, everything alright?…Yeah…huh-uh…sure…okay, we'll be there soon" Emma could feel herself starting to panic, she knew she shouldn't have left Henry.

"What's the matter? Is it Henry? What's happened?" Emma said in a rush, already putting her coat on to leave.

"Calm down, Henry's fine." Emma breathed a sigh of relief, although she still felt unsettled, "The electric's gone out in your apartment and they can't find a torch to check the fuse box. So they need us to go back."

"Oh, that's all. You had me worried there for a sec." Emma let out a few more relieved breaths "We'd better head back then. I've got a few beers in, so we'll have a drink there instead."

The pair arrived outside Emma's door ten minutes later. Emma opened it to find the room in complete darkness,"Hey, guys, we're back." Within an instant, the lights came on and shouts of "Surprise" and "Happy birthday" could be heard. Emma was in shock, no-one had ever done anything like this for her before. She could feel her eyes welling up with emotion as her son came barrelling into her.

"Happy Birthday, Ma," Henry said as he gave her a hug. "Were you surprised? Nobody told you, did they? What do you think?" He asked excitedly, pulling away to gesture to the area around him. There were balloons and banners hung around the room, and the dining table contained a chocolate birthday cake and a stack of pizza boxes.

"It's perfect. Thanks, Kid," Emma said with a watery smile. It really was. It was the best birthday Emma could have asked for.

"Time for the candles," Mable said as she began lighting them on the cake, "Happy Birthday…" She started as the other two joined in for the rest of the song.

"…hooray!" As the song finished, Emma went to blow out the candles, but not before Henry chipped in with a reminder. "Don't forget to make a wish, Ma."

"Okay…let me think for a sec." What could she even wish for? In this moment she was happy, she had everything she needed. She had her son who was healthy and happy. She had people in her life that cared about her enough to help throw her a surprise party. She had a lovely home and a good job. She couldn't ask for more. This was all she could hope for; to be with the people she cared about and not to have to spend a birthday alone again. Emma closed her eyes and blew.

A moment later there was a knock at the door, she looked at the clock on the wall- 8.15pm. Who would be visiting now? Emma couldn't think of anyone else Henry would have invited. Maybe he'd asked over one of his friends from soccer? She walked across the room and opened the door.

xxxxxxx

"Sorry I'm late," Regina said after a few seconds of awkward silence. "This is for you, Miss Swan," the brunette added, handing over the gift she'd brought.

Regina had decided that she couldn't turn up to a celebration with nothing to offer; it wasn't proper etiquette. The surprised blonde took the white box in her hands. She looked down at it, then back at Regina before saying,"uh…thanks. Come in."

In the enchanted forest, the Evil Queen commanded attention when she entered a room. She walked with confidence, with purpose and at ease. She would stride into a banquet hall filled with hundreds of nobles, and all eyes would fall upon her. But right now, in this small living room with four relative strangers, Regina had never felt more exposed. She stood a few footsteps in from the entrance, not quite sure what to do with herself. Her discomfort didn't last for long as she was welcomed warmly by everyone present. She smiled cordially and greeted them in return, making polite conversation.

"Regina, you made it in time for cake" an enthusiastic Henry exclaimed as he dragged her by the hand towards the dining table. A day ago, if anyone had dared drag her anywhere, she would have burnt their hand without a second thought. Now, somehow, this all felt right.

A couple of short conversations, cake and something called Pizza later, Regina sat down with a drink in hand. "Thank you for the gift, there was really no need" Regina heard from over her left shoulder, as she sat sipping the remnants of her wine. Turning around, she came face to face with Emma.

"It's not much, but I only found out that it was your birthday shortly before I arrived when Henry showed up at my door."

Emma laughed and sat clumsily next to Regina on the sofa, "Well me and my sweet tooth appreciate it. It's a well-known fact that the way to my heart is definitely through my stomach." Emma said patting her front with a grin. Regina had begrudgingly given one of the apple turnovers she had purchased that day as a small present.

"I'll be sure to keep that in mind," Regina replied feeling surprisingly pleased that her gesture had been well received.

"Can I get you anything?" Emma asked looking down at Regina's now empty glass, "There's beer or wine, and I probably have a bottle of Jack Daniels somewhere too."

Regina daren't ask who this 'Jack Daniels' was, or why they felt the need to bottle him. Whatever it was, she certainly wasn't going to drink it."You wouldn't happen to have any apple cider would you?" Regina inquired, she had a fondness for anything which included apples.

"Umm…I'm not sure. I'll go and check," Emma leapt up of her seat and rummaged around the kitchen cupboards before returning empty handed. "Nope, but I'll get some in for next time."

"Next time?" Regina asked with a raised eyebrow.

"I mean, in case you come over again," Emma said with a sheepish grin.

"Oh I see" was all Regina could say in response. She was not used to receiving return invites; one encounter with the Evil queen was usually more than enough for most people.

"You look really nice by the way. Not that you didn't before- that's not what I meant. It's just with the dress and the makeup and your hair down and stuff…" Emma gestured with her hand up and down Regina's body. "I'm gonna shut up now," She added to herself, then gulped down her beer.

Regina smirked at the babbling woman. She had decided to change her outfit despite Henry's insistence that there was no need to do so. If Regina was going to an event, she was certainly going to dress for it no matter which land she was in. She had opted to wear a figure-hugging, sleeveless black dress. She may not be the Evil Queen in this land, but black was still her colour. The dress finished just above the knee and showed the right amount of cleavage. She paired it with black heeled shoes which were ridiculously uncomfortable, but she chose to wear them regardless. It was very unlike the dresses she would have worn in the enchanted forest, but Regina loved it anyway.

"Thank you, Miss Swan. You look lovely yourself," The blonde was blushing slightly either due to the embarrassment of her earlier rambling or at the compliment she received; Regina couldn't quite tell. It was true, the blonde did look good in the red dress and heels she wore. She looked very different to the woman Regina had first met in the elevator that morning.

Their brief conversation was interrupted by a flash of light which caught Regina's attention. Looking around to see the source, the brunette found a smirking Henry holding a small silver object which lit up for the second time.

"Smile" he exclaimed, then a moment later it flashed again. He looked at the device and furrowed his brow, "Ma, Regina, you weren't smiling. I need the photos to put in the present I got you." Henry had bought his Mother an album for her birthday and filled it with photographs of their time together in New York. Unfortunately, the fire had destroyed all the albums and photos from their Boston apartment, but they still had the memories.

Fine, but delete the other ones." Emma said as she leaned in closer to Regina's side; placing her arm across Regina's back and hand around her waist. Regina froze, she was not used to being in such close proximity to another person. Generally, the closest she got someone involved delivering scathing insults or ripping out hearts; quite often both at the same time. This was different; it felt more intimate. Confused, Regina turned to look at the smiling woman next to her. Flash. Emma turned to face Regina still smiling,"He will just keep taking them until he gets the one he wants." She tilted her head to a still frowning Henry, "Just smile for him and he'll leave you alone. Well, for now at least." Regina was still unsure of exactly what was happening, but she smiled at the other women regardless. They looked at each other for a moment -flash- before Regina turned around to face Henry. Flash.

"Ma, you aren't looking this time. This isn't that difficult, you know." Once more the small device let out it's bright light. At last, the boy looked satisfied. "Okay, now I just need one with everyone in it. Can everyone get on the sofa while I set the timer?"

Three failed group shots later, a pleased Henry finally allowed everyone the get back to their conversations. A tired Regina decided to take this as her opportunity to leave. Bidding farewell to everyone, she departed the Swan residence and made her way back to her own apartment. It had been a long and exhausting day, and she really needed to rest. Upon landing in her bed, Regina fell into a deep and restful sleep where she dreamt of her first day in her new home.

A/N: Once again thank you for the reviews and follows, I really appreciate it. I hope you enjoyed the chapter and Regina's first day in her new world. I'm about to start writing the next chapter, which I think could be a fun one. So, I look forward to sharing it!