She peeled off the white lid to her Starbucks cup and leaned down to blow on the dark liquid. She considered coffee a gift from Satan, liquid crack that set your mouth on fire. Its addictive qualities were irresistible. Laughing at her thoughts, she turned around to see her best friend.

"Swan." She heard his voice crack a little.

"Look at you, wearing your shades inside. I take it you got into some serious trouble last night." Emma was still trying to cool her coffee.

"I got into double trouble; their names were Belle and Lacey." He smiled to himself like an all-star champ who just won the gold medal. At least, he remembered their names, which in itself was medal worthy for a guy like him.

"Jesus Christ." Emma rolled her eyes. Her friend always found himself tangled in the sheets, but twins? That was a new one. She didn't envy that lifestyle at all.

"You know what, you wish you were me. I woke up feeling like a new man. Seriously that chick Lacey did this thing with her tongue, that was to die for." He stuck out his tongue at Emma and swirled it around.

Emma rolled her eyes. "That's disgusting, stop acting like that in public." She couldn't prevent the wince on her face at how gross he was being. One would think about an old used gym sock that soured, and she would compare that same feeling of disgust with her best friend at times.

"What? You would talk about getting laid too. If you were lucky enough to be getting laid by two twins, that is."

"There is an enormous difference between you and me. For one, never in my right mind would I want to be in bed with two twins." She paused to sip her still overly hot coffee. She grimaced as she felt her taste buds sizzle from the blistering liquid. "God damn this is hot."

Emma turned from her friend and to the hippie working behind the counter, "Dude, this coffee is way too hot. Can I get a few ice cubes or something? I would like to taste my dinner tonight."

August appeared at her side and added, "Don't worry, it's not like she takes the time to savor her food. She just shoves it in her mouth all at once. It's impeccable really, you should see her in action. Perhaps I should sign her up for one of those hot dog eating contests." He brought his fist up to his mouth in a back and forth action.

When was there not a time Emma slapped him the gut, the world should be worried.

"Ouch, hey. I was kidding, obviously. Calm down." He said.

The Starbucks barista laughed, "It's cool. Her cup was extra fresh, so it was probably too hot to begin with. I'm sorry 'bout that." He handed her a clear cup of ice. "Since you had a problem with your order, here's a gift card. Your next cup is on us." He said as he handed Emma the card.

"Seriously, it's fine. I didn't mean to complain." She said feeling like crap.

"No, you totally did." August was just feeding into the fire.

"Just take the gift card." The kid smiled.

Reluctantly, she took the gift card and turned to her friend, "Hot dogs? Really? I think I'm more of an all beef kind of girl." She laughed, "I would kill at the hamburger contest."

"Who are you even?" He asked as he laughed with his best friend.

"I'm the girl that's going to have to say, I'd prefer not to be in bed with two twins, but one sexy as Hell woman who loves me. I don't know how you do so many one night stands. Wouldn't it get old after the hundredth girl?"

"No. Not at all." What he shook is the head. "Each girl is different." He shook his head. "Some are like a hot dog down a hallway. Others, well, they fit like a glove."

"That's repulsive, and I'm sure each has different STD's," She said as she shifted a few ice cubes from the clear cup into her coffee.

"I get tested every month. I'm good, trust me. We're all good down there." He even pointed.

"Can you seriously grow up. Besides, the fact that you have to get tested so much is telling."

"Telling that I have a great life that many would kill for." He deadpanned as he crossed his arms.

"Just wait till three of these random one night stands to tell you they are pregnant!" Emma said with an amused look. She couldn't imagine August as a dad, not right now at least. "Besides, I'd never kill for a life like that."

"That's because you're not a dude, and I use protection," He said.

"You're right. I'm not a dude." She said as she pushed the white lid back onto her cup and took a sip of her much-needed coffee. She needed the caffeine, especially since she spent the entire night in bed, with Weezy, messaging Regina.

August cleared his throat awkwardly, "So, how'd last night go?"

"I can't believe I'm about to say this, but it went well." Emma pulled her phone from her back pocket. "Do you want to hear about our conversations?"

"Do I? I only woke up and dragged my body out of bed with two naked women. I sacrificed myself for you."

"That's one way to put it." Emma let her eyes roll to the side as she sat down in a high-top chair. "Did you know they have an app for the website for iPhones? It's got all the features if you pay a few extra bucks extra a month. So I upgraded last night so I could have full access to my account in case Regina was online."

"So I take it everything went well?"

"It went more than just well." She tried to fight the smile that broke out across her face. You know that twitching feeling as your face muscles fight back and forth in a mini-war over emotions and how it causes tingles? Yeah, that was Emma Swan's face and boy did it tingle. Ultimately, her smile won as she refreshed the FindLove app on her phone.

"Okay, so we may have messaged a lot. She's also coming to Florida soon." Emma said as she looked down at her phone.

"Whoa, so let me get this straight, you guys talked all night, and now she's visiting. Isn't that fast?"

"She's going to be here for meetings. Not for me, but thanks for your support even if she wasn't here for meetings." Emma said, annoyed. Even if they did hit it off last night and Regina planned a visit, his reaction wasn't supposed to be that it was too fast.

"Oh, gotcha. Sorry, I didn't mean to jump to conclusions. Are you going to let me read what you guys said to each other, or what?" He said wiggling his fingers as his arm extended out and his hand eagerly awaited her phone.

"Okay, but if you read the messages, you can't mock me. I don't know how to flirt, and she's so cute. I just hope I don't sound stupid, I did drink as we messaged back and forth. I haven't even read them since last night. Kind of afraid to."

"You totally read and re-read them before going to sleep, though. I can read that face of yours and can tell."

She smiled to herself, "I couldn't help it. She was so cute and serious. I heart her."

"Heart her? That is possibly the gayest thing I have ever heard you utter." He said as he laughed at Emma.

"See, you're off to a bad start. No messages for you, privileges revoked. You left the two twins for nothing."

"Whoa, whoa. Give me that phone." He lunged across the table. His hands practically attacked Emma, whose phone went flying. To some, it may look like a clown doing a juggling act, as she fumbled to catch it.

"Dude, did you drink too much last night?" She snapped. "I could have smashed my phone." Emma looked at him as he tried to straighten his crooked sunglasses that sat on his nose.

"Swan, hand it over. I set up that damned profile; I get viewing rights for this. I'm basically cupid."

"Cupid's ugly."

"I'm his hotter brother then." August probably didn't expect Emma to then spit her coffee everywhere. Nor did he expect that when he wore his sunglasses that morning that really they were protecting his eyes from being drenched by her coffee.

"I can't get your face out of my mind. I keep seeing it, but with a baby's body." She shook in fits of laughter.

"You notice everyone is staring, and you're the only one laughing." He picked up some napkins to clean up the table and his sunglasses.

"Seriously, Emma. Stop. They'll call the loony bin to get you."

She tried not to laugh, but that only made her laugh harder and really it wasn't that funny.

August realized he hadn't seen his friend laugh so carefree in such a long time. Perhaps she really did hit it off with the other woman. Who was he to judge if it was a fast connection.

"Can I please just read your messages?" He asked nicely with his grabby hand.

"Yeah, you can. I did just spit my coffee all over you. The least I can do is let you read them, now." She handed over her phone as she watched him read over the different messages.

August was the only person she was open with, besides her parents. They lived in Miami, hours away. They'd call and talk, but her dating life wasn't a topic after Lily. August, well, he was the friend she could say anything to for the most part. Most times it was a question as to if she wanted to share stuff. She trusted his instincts, well, half of the time. She knew that he'd never steer her wrong when it came to her looking for love. He was right about the girl at the bar the other night; she practically drooled over her. It was time for her to get out there and meet people. Too bad that all the people in her zip code were not her type, not even slightly. Regina, however, was a rare gem. She'd proven that last night as her personality shined through the messages she sent.

They'd spent hours together, up until Regina said she had to go to sleep because of having to be up for work early. The best part though was that they planned to talk again tonight. That gave Emma reassurance that this was worth something because it had the potential to build into something better.

She watched as her friend read to himself the messages from last night.

RegalRegina80: Thanks for the compliment. My parents would thank you. I've always hated my name. How many girls have you messaged? I read your profile some. Seems like I fit the bill for what you're looking for, except the distance is a small problem. I envy you being able to make your schedule. I, on the other hand, can barely make sense of my schedule these days. My assistant keeps my head on straight. He even set this up for me, as your friend did for you. He's a treasure. I will actually be in Florida at the end of the month in the Orlando area. I have some meetings over the weekend. If you're interested, I'd love to have dinner one evening?

EmmaSwan88975: I've messaged just you. I only logged in for the first time about an hour ago. Still trying to get familiar with everything. How about you? Got any promising prospects? I wish I were lucky enough to have an assistant. What part of Orlando? The touristy part? It would be nice to put a name to a face and meet you.

RegalRegina80: I've had a lot of random messages that I didn't think were worth responses. I don't understand how saying 'You're sexy' is a good first message to someone, ever. I got a few others far worse, but I ended up blocking them. To be honest, I logged in to delete this thing. It's just frustrated me more than anything. Downtown, are there other parts? I'm only familiar with the office we meet at for meetings.

EmmaSwan88975: I'm glad I had messaged you before you deleted your account. I can get how frustrating it can be not to see the results you want. The only reason I messaged you was because no one in my radius was my type. So I expanded my search to the whole US. Of course, I was instantly blown away when I saw your picture. Then realized you were in Maine, the opposite end of the east coast because of course that's just my luck. You just seemed too perfect not to message. I mean, it's not exactly every day you meet a mayor. It's a big turn on for me. I'm really into people who are successful and who have drive. Not to mention, well I guess I am, but you're breathtaking. On a less creepy note, I noticed that you didn't list music and stuff on your profile. What are your interests? You've gotta be into something, right?

RegalRegina80: I'm glad you had messaged me before I deleted my account too. I'm very flattered that my accomplishments make me attractive. I think it's your job that's a turn on to me. Living my life to a schedule makes me very envious of those who can live freely. What's the worst thing that's ever happened to you on a job? Has your cover been blown? I'm assuming you're some sort of investigator? Also, the feeling is mutual. I think you're stunning. As far as music, well I kind of like mostly anything.

EmmaSwan88975: I'm an 80s girl. I'm kind of permanently stuck in the 80s. New Kids on The Block will always hold a special place in my heart. Also the Jacksons, who could forget them. Whoever hates Janet or Michael needs to see a doctor for some meds. I also just bought my friend and I tickets for Hall & Oats. Because who doesn't like them? I may get to make my schedule, but it still leaves me very little time for travel. I can see how living a life where everything is mapped out, on a calendar, and pre-organized can be less entertaining. Do you ever take a vacation? The worst thing that's ever happened to me is probably catching a father of four cheating on his wife who had cancer. She died. It was awful. The woman he was cheating on his wife with was his best friend's wife too. It was pathetic. I don't know how I'd forgive a guy like that. Couldn't imagine being his kids once they find out the truth, because the truth always has a way of coming out. Yeah, I'm a P. I. It's a great job. Though I don't know if I can do this job forever. Probably will change jobs soon. Dealing with cheating couples is a bit draining. So tell me, how's a girl like you end up being so beautiful? I hope that's not too forward. Are you Hispanic? Greek? Italian? Arminian? Your features are just perfect. Dark eyes and hair are my favorite.

RegalRegina80: Wouldn't you like to know that I too enjoy 80s music? Journey, Prince, Duran Duran, and Chicago are my favorites. I've never been to a concert, though. Should I? Don't hate me for this, but I don't love Janet. Michael is great. Man in the Mirror is on of my favorite songs. Vacation is a foreign word to me. I rarely ever take one. I have so many days saved up. Perhaps I should sometime? That's awful about that guy. I believe in karma, and he'll get what he deserves someday. I'm everything you just said, but not Greek or Arminian, well, to my knowledge. My father came from Puerto Rico when he was a little boy. My mom has Italian heritage, but her family line has been in America for several generations. I think we have a little Spanish in us as well as French. I used to not like my dark features, but I have come to appreciate them, but less about me. Blondes have always been attractive to me. Weird, right?

EmmaSwan88975: I love all of those bands, but the fact that you don't like Janet is soul crushing. You need to go to the doctor to get checked out for that. Don't worry, I'll hold your hand. Man in the Mirror is great, but Beat It is my favorite. Maybe if you're here more often, then I'll take you to your first concert, only if you want, though. I'm mostly Northern European on both sides of my family. I got my blonde hair from my dad. My mom, she's pretty pale but had darker hair when I was growing up. Funny how we can look more like one parent. What about blondes do you like? ;)

RegalRegina80: Sorry I have to cut this short, I need to get some rest for work tomorrow. Will I be able to catch you online around the same time? Maybe then I'll tell you what it is about blondes that I like. ;)

EmmaSwan88975: That's okay. I hope you sleep well and yeah I should be around tomorrow at this time. Look forward to talking to you.

"This is…" He scratched his trimmed beard. "This is honestly great. I didn't think you'd meet someone so fast and connect as well as you did. I'm happy for you. She's coming to like Florida soon too! How do you feel about that?" August asked handing Emma back her phone, which she eagerly took.

"She said at the end of the month, so three weeks. I'm really excited, but nervous. I mean, will we connect as well in person? I also haven't been on an actual date, you know one that is planned, since Lily, I'm twenty-seven, and my dating life is just ... sad."

"That's because, as you've said before, you need someone who is the right person for you. You're special and unique. There aren't many other girls who at all compare to you. I mean that in the best way possible, Emma. What you deserve is to find someone who falls for who you are and accepts you." He said. He paused and sipped his coffee and then added, "I mean, that's what we all want. I haven't even found that yet. I may find myself waking up in a different bed till I die. Who knows if Regina is the person for you? Perhaps she's not, but perhaps she's as amazing in person as she seemed in the messages from last night. Also, you've got three weeks to feel her out. You may even figure out where your feelings are at before she even gets here too. Just take it slow."

She really didn't want to get her hopes up. Regina seemed to be the whole package. At the same time, she was waiting for there to be a catch.

"You're right. It was one night. So far she seems incredible and everything I'm looking for in a potential girlfriend. I can only hope she's as good and interested in me as the three weeks pass till we meet. The date could go horribly, or maybe not. Regardless of anything, I'm really enthusiastic about all of this." Emma motioned with her hand. "She seems so great. It felt so easy to talk to her and all I've wanted this morning was to message her and ask her more questions. I want to get to know her. It's exciting. I haven't felt this good in such a long time."

August smiled, "I'm really happy for you Emma. I think you've got a good thing happening here. I hope it stays that way. Seeing you like this is a good change of pace. Not that you were 'negative Nancy', or anything I just like knowing you're happy. That's all I want for you. That's why I made the profile to begin with. It doesn't make me feel amazing to always brag about who I slept with when I know you went home to your empty bed." He frowned and then realized, "Okay, so you had Weezy, but he's not even your cat. Will you consider getting your own pet?"

Emma laughed, "No. I like Weezy. What's your beef with him?"

"He doesn't like me."

"Maybe if you liked him, he'd like you." Emma pointed out. "But seriously, back to what you said, thanks for making the profile. If this works out, I owe you big time."

"You're life savings would be nice."

"Yeah you're not worth that much." She rolled her eyes. August knew she had a big savings account, but that money had a very specific purpose.

"I'm kidding. Don't get weird." He punched her shoulder.

"I know." Emma licked her lips. "So tonight, should I flirt more?"

"Definitely. She's obviously interested. She'll flirt back for sure."

"Okay, well I'm gonna go. I've got things to do, and I want to go home and watch the ball game till it's around the time she'll be back online. Tomorrow want to see that movie you were talking about?"

"That Johnny Depp movie? Sure fucking do want to see that. I've only talked about it for the last three weeks."

"Cool. Well, I'll see you then."

Emma took one final sip of her coffee that now was too cold to drink. Funny how that happens. In a blink of an eye, the overly hot coffee grew too cold. She got up and chucked it into the trash can by the door. She pulled out her sunglasses and walked back to her apartment.

Later that night Emma sat with her feet propped up on a pillow as she painted her toenails, blue. She wasn't the typical girly girl. Nevertheless, she still liked to look nice. Her southern mother always told her that if your toes were out, then your nails needed polish. While Emma did paint her nails, she wouldn't ever be caught dead with pink nails. Blue seemed fitting, especially for the game.

The Royals were playing in the background, they were her favorite team. Kansas City wasn't her hometown, but the Royals had a solid lineup.

Weezy lazily slept in the window, which hung open to let the air flow in. A soft snore traveled through the air as he twitched from the noises of the crowds cheering on the TV. Her cold beer that she was drinking created a familiar warmth that buzzed through her body. She was perfectly content, except she was extremely eager for the clock to tick a little faster so she could go online to chat with Regina.

Emma's heart skipped a beat at the mere thought. She needed this. She loved the rush of excitement she felt. It gave her hope. Being twenty-seven and only having one sexual partner was frustrating. Not that she was jumping to the conclusion that she'd be intimate with Regina, which was presumptuous after one night of casual conversation, crazy really. Though, just the idea of someone reciprocating the attention was uplifting, for a lack of better words. So yeah, she was excited. Excited to share her thoughts and feel like someone would listen and actually want to know more about her. She knew that this could lead to something else solely because Regina traveled to Florida for business. If that weren't the case, then maybe she wouldn't be as invested so soon.

Her phone buzzed and lit up on the table. Blowing at her wet toes, she put the top of her nail polish back in the bottle and squeezed it shut. She leaned forward and picked up her phone.

She was surprised to find that it wasn't a text from August or Wayfair coupons for twenty percent off new select rugs. Her obsession with online shopping needed to come to an end soon. At least, she wasn't a QVC shopper like her mother. That was dangerous. Her mom had a garage full of random and useless items she'd collected over the years, as the piece of shit ShakeWeight. It was marketed to help arm muscles, but really it was just a very, very large vibrator.

While it wasn't a useful coupon that fed into her shopping addiction in her inbox, it was, instead, a message on her FindLove app from RegalRegina80.

RegalRegina80: Hey, I hope you're having a good day. I just thought about you when Michael Jackson started to play on my Spotify. Can't wait to talk to you tonight.

Emma smiled instantly. It gave her butterflies to know Regina thought of her too.

She quickly typed back a response with a knowing smirk.

EmmaSwan88975: Hey you. I'm having a much better day now. I still think I should have you see a doctor after that comment about Janet yesterday. ;) Talk to you tonight!

She read her message over twice before feeling confident enough to send it to her.

She picked up her beer and threw back a few big gulps. She sat it down and cracked her knuckles. The day was still young, and she had quite a few hours till she'd talk to Regina again.

Her attention was pulled back to the small device in her hand that buzzed.

RegalRegina80: I don't need a doctor, so stop trying to make an excuse to hold my hand. I'll be online around eight. Talk then. Xo.

Emma nearly knocked over her beer as she stood up. She stared closer at her phone trying to make sense of the other woman's message. Does that mean she'd let her hold her hand? Her heart swelled at the thought. Then a xo? This wasn't Gossip Girl, with some voice over moderating her life, or did Regina literally mean kisses and hugs? As if on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, Emma called her lifeline, August.

"Hello?"

She took a deep breath before she unleashed her slew of questions on her friend.