A/N: Hi! Sorry this took so long and thanks for sticking with this story. :)

Sorry for mistakes and I own nothing. Enjoy!

Chapter Four

"And you must be Hayden." Regina said brightly. She bent a little so that she could address the small blonde child standing before her. Hayden went right up to her and grinned. Regina chuckled and offered the child her hand. Instead of shaking her hand though, Hayden stepped closer, put her arm around Regina's neck and hugged her. Regina was surprised by this at first. She's never hugged anyone besides her siblings or father and occasionally Mulan. Her mother wasn't very big on affection and in turn Regina just wasn't used to it. She didn't need it but when she received a cute little hug from Hayden she found that she liked it.

She let her eyes slip closed for a moment as she enjoyed the cute little hug. "Thank you for helping me." Hayden whispered. Regina's eyes opened then and she smiled.

"You are quite welcome, little one." She whispered back. Hayden giggled and pulled back from the hug. Regina hated to let her go but she reluctantly did so. She smiled at her as she straightened up and Hayden grinned up at her. She patted Hayden on the shoulder before looking up to address the rest of the group.

She stepped down the three steps that took her into the foyer and crossed the room over to the adults. She kept on a smile as she approached. Hayden skipped passed her and latched on to a blonde woman that looked like an older version of the child. Regina assumed that was her mother. Hayden confirmed this when she said. "This is my mommy."

Regina gave Hayden a smile before looking up at the other woman. That's when it hit her. Those eyes. Those soft green springtime eyes. She had never seen anything like it. Hayden had the exact same color eyes but there was just something about her mother's that made Regina's heart skip. She tried really hard but she couldn't help but check the woman out. The golden hair that flowed down the woman's shoulders and back in beautiful, perfect waves. Those kissable pink lips. Regina noticed right away that she was wearing little to no makeup, something that Regina found quite attractive. Regina also found herself surprisingly attracted to the woman's style of clothing. The red leather jacket, which she must have been baking in outside, the red plaid shirt underneath, that was left open revealing what must have been a white tank top. Regina could even make out her abs through the tight material. And speaking of tight. The light blue skinny jeans the woman was wearing had to be painted on without a doubt. There was no way that she pulled them on. It was impossible. The little red and white converse that she was wearing was endearing.

Regina didn't particularly like the casual look but this woman made it work.

"Hello." She said with a smile and offering Hayden's mother her hand. "You must be Emma Swan."

Emma smiled and shook her hand. Their eyes met and they both lingered there for a moment. "Yeah." Emma said breaking the silence. "And I know who you are. And like Hayden said, thank you."

Regina smiled. "You are very welcome." She said snapping out of it. She released Emma's hand. "I'm glad that you accepted my invitation. I would really like to help Hayden."

Emma looked into her eyes again and just smiled then. It was a really cute gesture and Regina smiled back. She could see where Hayden had gotten her charm. Someone clearing their throat beside Emma pulled her attention. She looked over and there beside Emma was a tall leggy brunette dressed in a similar outfit to Emma's but for some reason it didn't have the same effect on Regina that Emma's did.

Emma sighed. "This is our friend Ruby."

Regina smiled and shook hands with the woman. She offered her a friendly smile and the other woman winked at her. She flinched then looked back at Emma who must have caught it because she simply shrugged a shoulder with a small smirk. "Its lovely to meet all of you." Regina said politely. She looked behind them and smiled at Mulan and Killian. The two of them grinned back.

"Ditto." Said Ruby with a wolfish grin. Regina smirked. She had to admit that was indeed a bit attractive.

"So..." Regina said clapping her hands together. "Shall I show you around this house and then the guest house?"

"Yeah!" Hayden said happily. Regina looked down at the little girl and smirked at her enthusiasm.

"Great." She said. "Follow me." She then turned on her heels and began leading the group through the house.

Regina gave them a tour of her house which took longer than Regina remembered. She then took them downstairs and led them through the kitchen to the door that led to the patio. Hayden was full of energy and excitement, Regina found it to be very adorable and refreshing. At her age very few things excited her but Hayden's excitement triggered her own. She was excited to get to work helping the child. Hayden was such a beautiful little child with a kind heart. She deserved a fresh start and Regina was more than happy to give it to her.

She led them across the yard, around the large swimming pool that Hayden tried to jump into but was caught by her mother in mid air. Regina couldn't help the chuckle that escaped her at the sight. Emma looked up from her squirming daughter at the sound and their eyes locked. She then offered Regina an apologetic smile. Regina smiled back. She then turned on her heels and continued leading them to a large white house near by.

"You have a dog?" Hayden asked as she pointed over at the lavender and white dog house.

"Yes Collette." Regina informed. "My little princess."

"Little rat is more like it." Killian added. Regina rolled her eyes.

"Funny. She probably thinks the same for you." Regina deadpanned. Emma, Mulan and Ruby snickered. While Killian scowled.

Hayden was still curiously watching the dog house waiting for the dog to emerge. "Where is she?"

"The groomers. She needed a haircut. She'll be back soon." Regina replied.

"Awww..." Hayden giggled. "She sounds cute."

Regina smiled. "She is." She said as she continued to lead them around the pool.

"This is the guest house." Regina said as she unlocked the door and pushed it open. She held it open and allowed all of the women to step through until her brother stepped up and held it open for her. She smiled and thanked him before stepping inside. She saw the three women glancing around the house with amazed expressions. She gave them a moment to explore the elegantly decorated foyer of this house as well. There was a straight view to the family room and the door that led to the kitchen.

"Swanky." Ruby said looking around. "Its only us staying here?"

Regina hummed with a nod. "There are four guestrooms all together. Two on each floor."

"There are two floors?" Hayden asked curiously.

Regina nodded. "Yes, honey." She said softly. She gestured to the hallway. "Those stairs take you up to the second floor."

Hayden nodded as she looked down the hall and spotted the staircase. "Cool."

Regina chuckled. "Indeed." She waved her over and everyone else followed as she led them through the door that led to the kitchen. There was a chrome kitchen island with matching counters. The refrigerator matched as well. The stools were more of a silver color and the cushions were white. There was also a dishwasher in between the elegant counters. Regina noticed them all looking around in awe. She smiled a little. She walked over to the refrigerator and pulled it open. "As you can see the refrigerator as well as the cabinets are fully stocked with things you may need but if there is anything else you need or want, please do not hesitate, Mulan or myself would be more than happy to take you anywhere you need to go."

Emma nodded with a huge smile. "Thank you so much, you have already been so generous."

Regina shrugged as she headed back into the foyer, followed by the trio. "If you have but don't give, what is the point?"

Emma's smile grew. "That is very true."

"So..." Regina said with a smile and a special gleam in her eye for Emma. "I will leave you all to it."

"So..." Killian said calmly as he placed their luggage down by the door. "Where do you need this?"

"Um..." Emma said as she watched Hayden hopping up the stairs. She looked over and saw Regina watching Hayden as well with a smile. "You can leave them." She said quickly. "We'll figure it out."

"Are you sure?" He asked. She saw his eyes dart to his sister as if he was asking what he should do but his twin was too busy watching a giggling Hayden. "I'm not in a rush."

"It's fine." Emma said with a small wave of her hand. "You guys have done enough. Thank you." She placed a hand on Regina's shoulder to get her attention. Regina glanced over at her. "Seriously thank you."

Regina smiled. "You are very welcome." She straightened up and smoothed down her clothes. "I'll leave you all to it." She waved at Hayden with a small smile still in place. Hayden of course waved back happily.

"Will we see you later?" The little girl asked. Regina looked surprised by the question. Emma saw Ruby poke her head out of one of the rooms she had been looking through waiting for the answer as well.

"Well, yes. I hoped we would see each other very soon." Regina said softly. "I mean, I would like to invite you all to dinner."

"Cool." Hayden said with a smile. She hopped down the stairs and ran over to Regina. She looked up at her. "What are we ordering?"

"Oh." Regina gasped in surprise. "I was hoping that I could cook for you all."

"Regina's an amazing cook." Mulan added. Regina's cheeks colored a bright red and Emma thought that was very cute.

"I'm not... my grandmother taught me how to cook. I spent a lot of time with her as a child and..." She cut herself off and smiled. "Does anyone have any food allergies?"

Emma smiled with a shake of her head. "Nope."

"Okay..." Regina looked slightly surprised. "Well that's excellent. I'll leave you all to it."

Emma nodded. "Okay."

"Okay so dinner should be ready at about six thirty."

"Great." Emma said.

"So I will see you then." Regina said with another smile then slipped out of the house.

Emma and Ruby watched her go. Ruby went over to Emma and stood beside her just as Regina slipped out of the door shutting it behind her, her brother and her assistant.

"I hate to see her leave but I love to watch her go." Ruby muttered.

Emma laughed and shoved Ruby. "Stop being a creep and I doubt that's how the saying goes. Grab your stuff and let's unpack. I want to shower so we'll be on time for dinner."

Ruby laughed as she brushed passed her and went to grab her luggage. Emma followed with small chuckle.

They were already off to a great start.

Regina walked into her kitchen with Mulan and Killian. She directed them to a seat at the island in the middle of the kitchen as she walked over to the small hooks in the corner of the kitchen and pulled off a dark purple apron. She put it on and before she could go to tie it she felt Mulan's hands swatting hers away. Those same gentle hands tied it into a small bow.

"Your waist is so tiny." The woman chuckled. "How and where do I get a body like this?"

Regina snorted out a soft laugh. "Oh please. I wish I was half as athletic as you are."

"Well, all you have to do is tell me when and we'll go to my gym and I'll teach you kickboxing." Mulan said. Regina didn't even have to look at her to know she was grinning.

"I just might take you up on that." Regina said as Mulan released her. "And thank you."

Mulan nodded. "Of course."

Regina gave her good friend a smile before heading over to the sink. The water automatically turned on. She put her hand under the chrome automatic soap dispenser then turned back to the sink and began washing her hands. The smell of lavender hand soap filled the kitchen. She removed her hands and the water automatically shut off. She then moved over to dry her hands under the automatic hand dryer.

Once her hands were dry she headed over to the refrigerator and began pulling out ingredients.

"What do you think of our guests?" Killian asked as Mulan took a seat beside him at the island. Regina didn't turn around as she grabbed a few blocks of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. She set them aside. She grabbed a package of ground turkey and set that aside. She hated beef and only cooked with it when she absolutely had to.

"Hayden is the cutest little thing I have ever seen." Regina said as she closed the refrigerator. "I would give her the whole world if I could."

She moved across the room and set down the ingredients on the black marble counter. She moved to her cabinets and pulled out a package of organic lasagne noodles and two jars of organic pasta sauce.

"Their dark haired friend has a thing for you, Regina.." Killian pointed out simply as If he was not speaking of a strange woman being attracted to twin sister.

Regina paused and looked over her shoulder at her brother. "What?"

He laughed and Mulan snorted. "You didn't see how she was subtly hitting on you?" He asked.

"I thought she liked Mulan." Regina said. She turned around completely then and abandoned the lasagne she was trying to make.

"Oh she does." Killian said with a shrug. "But she likes you too. "

"Huh?" Mulan asked just as confused as Regina.

"Oh for a pair of geniuses, the two of you aren't very bright." He said through a laugh.

Regina and Mulan both rolled their eyes. "Regardless," Regina said pointedly turning around and heading over to her bottom cabinets. She pulled out a large glass dish. She sat it down on the counter. "My main concern is Hayden. She's my patient. I did not bring them out here to flirt with her family friend."

"Right..." Killian and Mulan drawled at the same time, clearly not believing her.

Regina frowned. "Fine. Don't believe me. I haven't had a date in years and I'm perfectly fine with that."

"That's true." Mulan said with a nod. "I mean, the 'not having a date' part. I'm not too sure about the 'being okay with it' part though."

Regina kept her back to them as she rolled her eyes. She was fine. She didn't need to date. She had her work. Doctor Regina Mills was trying to change the world. A relationship would be a distraction. "I don't have time for dating. My career is much too demanding and I wish the two of you would back off."

Mulan chuckled. "I'm sorry." She said in a pouty tone.

"You should be." Regina said in a similar one.

"Awww..." Mulan said from behind her and Regina rolled her eyes.

"Okay." Killian said. "I'll make you a deal. I'll come off it if you go on a double date with me and Milah. I'll ask her to bring one of her friends."

Regina sighed. "Will that get you to leave me alone?"

"Uh huh." Killian said with a nod.

Regina sighed. "Fine." She knew that that would get him off her back. Killian could be quite persistent when he put his mind to it and lately him trying to get his sister out into the dating scene was almost like a dog with a bone.

He smiled even though his sister couldn't see it. "Good." He said satisfied. She could hear it in his tone and it made her groan.

Regina rolled her eyes and filled a pot with water before placing it onto the stove. She threw in a dash of salt and a little olive oil and turned it on. She went over to her other ingredients and began setting them up as she waited for the water to begin boiling.

She was not going to continue engaging her brother. She had more important things to do. For instance feeding their guests and giving them a proper welcome to San Diego.

"That woman puts the sex in sexy." Ruby said from her seat on Emma's bed. Emma was trying to unpack but Ruby was going on about how sexy Regina was and frankly Emma agreed but she has more things to worry about than whether their hostess was attractive or not. For one she needed to know if Hayden was okay with everything. These were a lot of changes and very quickly.

"Hayden!" She called down the hall.

"Yes mommy?" Hayden called back.

Emma chuckled. "You alright in there, kid?"

"I'm fine, Lady!" The child called back.

Ruby snorted out a laugh and Emma chuckled with a shake of her head. Hayden is a lot sharper than Emma was as a kid. "Alright, smarty pants!"

She heard Hayden giggle. She shook her head with a smile and went back to unpacking. Regina would be expecting them soon.

"I'm telling you." Ruby said with a far off look in her eyes. "That woman is hot. Like I wanna take her on a nice date and spoil her. Then I wanna take her home and own her. I mean, rock her world."

Emma placed some underwear in the top drawer then looked over her shoulder at Ruby. She raised a brow. "That so?"

"I mean, I want her to sit on my face." Ruby whispered. "I want her to ride it until-"

"Mommy!" Hayden's voice cut off Ruby's rant about wanting to have sex with Regina. Emma looked over as her daughter entered her room. Emma was partially thankful for the interruption. Ruby was young at heart so she was still at the extremely sexual phase. Emma had been there and it got her Hayden. Emma had to grow up quickly. When she's picking a partner now it was about more than sex. There was too much at stake. This person would be a part of Hayden's life as well. That meant they needed good qualities that would make them good enough for her daughter. It was about more than how the person looked without their shirt on. She just couldn't relate to Ruby there.

Henry followed Hayden into the room. "Henry is here, Mommy." The little girl announced.

"Hello." Henry greeted with a wide smile. "I am here to inform you that dinner is ready."

"Oh." Emma said with a smile. "Thank you."

Henry dipped his head. "You are quite welcome. I can also escort you." He offered. "If you like?"

"Sure." Emma said with a shrug. "I bet its really easy to get lost in there, huh?"

He nodded. "It is. It happened to Captain Killian a total of three times."

The three woman laughed and Henry grinned at his little joke. "Are you all ready?" He asked. The trio all nodded. "Very well." He said brightly. "Right this way." He turned on his heel and began leading them down the hallway.

Emma never thought the day would come when she would be following an artificial intelligence through a guest house that was bigger than her own house to another house that was almost a damn castle. A castle which housed a scientist that wanted to help Hayden. She never thought that she would reach that point but here she was.

They followed him out of the house and out to the yard. They passed the pool area. Emma had to stop Hayden from jumping in again. It made her chuckle at how much her daughter was like her. She couldn't wait to put that pool to good use either but right now they had a dinner to attend hosted by their gracious hostess.

Henry led them to the back door of the house. He of course went straight through it. Hayden giggled and made a statement of how funny it would have been if she had tried to follow him but instead crashed into the door instead. Emma chuckled with a shake of her head and opened the door for the little girl. Hayden skipped inside and Emma followed. Ruby came up the rear and shut the door behind them. They were back inside of the main house. Even though they had seen the house before earlier during their tour, they were still in complete awe of what was before them.

There was a long dimly lit hallway ahead of them. There was expensive art hanging from the rose gold walls. Regina had good taste given by the various types of art that all matched one another.

"The Doctor is a fan of Van Gogh." Henry informed. "Ever since she was a young girl she was a fan of the emotion in his work. One can feel him and the darkness he felt at times. Her favorite is that one." He motioned to one in front of them.

They all followed his finger to the painting. It was a scene of a dark blue background with a black looming figure and swirls of white and light blues to create a sky, the moon and golden stars. It was beautiful and breathtaking. Emma knew that one. "Starry Night?" She mumbled.

"Indeed." Henry said. He began heading down the hallway again. They followed admiring the art along the way. There were sculptures here and there as well. Emma furrowed her brows as she browsed the paintings. She was familiar with most of them.

"Nice." She said about the collection in general.

Henry nodded. "Yes. Most of them are not the originals of course." He pointed out.

Emma raised her brows. She was still impressed. "Cool."

Henry nodded again and turned on his heels and began leading them again. Emma noticed for the first time that even though Henry appeared to be very real, the one thing that gave it away and was unlike the rest of them, Henry's footsteps did not make a sound. Well that along with the fact that he glitched every once in a while. He still seemed human and that was still impressive. An high-tech Artificial Intelligence with the knowledge of a computer but the heart and innocence of a child. She thought it was very cool.

They came to another door that must have led to the rest of the house. He lead then into another hall and straight across to a large archway. He stepped though and they followed him into the large dinning room.

"Wow." Hayden said as she looked around the room. Like the rest of the house this room was dimly lit. A crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling right above the dinning room table that was dressed in a rose gold lace table cloth. The table was already set. Mulan and Killian were seated side by side chatting away.

"Hayden Swan and her guests." Henry announced to the room. The two people looked up and Killian stood to greet them.

"Thank you, Henry." Killian said and the child smiled brightly. "Now go inform my sister that our guests have arrived."

"Yes Captain." Henry said with a small bow before fading from the room.

Killian motioned to the seats across from them before sitting down himself. "Please sit."

Mulan elbowed Killian in the ribs. The man hissed. "Regina is going to kill you when she finds out that you taught Henry to call you Captain." She grumbled.

Killian shrugged and Mulan rolled her eyes at him.

Hayden made a bee line straight for the table. She stopped on the way over and grinned at Mulan and Killian.

"Hi." Killian said with a returning wave.

"Good evening, Hayden." Mulan said with a smile. She looked over at Emma and waved. Emma laughed and waved back.

"Where does Regina sit?" Hayden asked as Emma and Ruby joined her at the table. "I want to sit next to her."

Mulan smiled and pointed to the seat at the head of the table right beside Killian. Hayden smiled and climbed into the seat on the opposite side. Emma took a seat beside her daughter and Ruby took the one next to her. There were three more empty seats beside them and four across. This was a huge dinning table. Regina must entertain often.

"How are you all settling in?" Mulan asked.

"Well. Thanks." Emma said with a smile. That's an understatement though. They loved the house.

"Good." Mulan said with a nod. "If you need anything feel free to holler."

Emma chuckled. "Alright."

The sound of heels could be heard clicking across the floor and they all looked over to see Regina entering the room with each ends of a large clear dish in her hands. Without the labcoat they could get a better look at Regina's outfit. That dress was a heartbreaker. Tight and complimenting. Emma found her eyes glued to the woman's figure and she felt like a creep but she had never seen curves like that. Regina's body was something straight out of a magazine. Her glasses weren't on her face but she was still just as sexy without them and her very attractive dark make-up on display. Killian stood and waited for his sister.

"Sorry for the delay." She said as she sat the dish down on the table. She looked over at the little girl beside her. She smiled at the little face grinning up at her. "How are you, Miss Hayden?"

Hayden giggled. "Good. How are you?"

"Much better." Regina smiled. She pinched the little girl's cheek and chuckled.

"I wish she would pinch my cheeks." Ruby mumbled.

Emma rolled her eyes and ignored her friend. She was enjoying watching her daughter with the new woman. It was cute and Emma had come to the conclusion that the woman really liked Hayden. Even after only two or three interactions, Emma could tell that Regina was good with her.

Regina smoothed down the back of her dress and gracefully lowered herself to the seat. Emma couldn't help but admire that. She hasn't been around many women that wear dresses like that, more or less the type that knew how to wear them, or even properly sit in them. It felt like this woman was from a completely different world and she liked it. Regina's entire personality screamed sophistication and class.

Regina leaned over and pulled the lid off of the dish. The smell hit them before anything else. It was a delicious aroma of cheese, sauce and meat combined to create an array of sense tingling sensations.

"Wow." Hayden said and her mouth fell open as they finally got a look at the lasagne. Regina chuckled.

"It's my specialty." She noted. "There's a salad on the other side there and home made garlic bread." She pointed to each. "Just help yourselves."

Killian didn't need to be told twice before he reached over and went for the dish. Mulan hit his hand and he snatched it back grumbling and 'ow'. Emma noted that that was the new hand that he had shown them. Killian had regular feeling in it. That was impressive.

Hayden looked at Regina. "Doctor Regina," The little girl said softly.

"Yes sweetie pie?" Regina answered so softly. "And please call me Regina."

"Regina, can you help me?" Hayden asked.

That surprised Emma. Sure Hayden was friendly like her grandparents and it didn't take her long to like someone but Emma had never seen her latch on so quickly. It was cute in a way.

Regina gave the child a smile and reached over and began cutting her a piece. She then placed the cheesy saucy goodness on her plate. Hayden's entire face lit up. Regina placed some salad on her plate as well and a piece of garlic bread. Hayden pouted at the sight of salad. Emma shook her head with a small smile. Regina sure as hell had the motherly thing down.

"Hayden likes her." Ruby whispered. "And she's good with her."

Emma nodded. "Yes I see..."

Regina handed Emma the utensils and Emma accepted them. She cut herself a slice and began loading her plate. Ruby did the same.

"Apple juice?" Regina asked after filling her own plate. She gestured to the pitcher with the liquid inside. "Or would you like milk?"

Hayden frowned as she thought it over. "Apple juice."

That made Regina smile. She picked up the pitcher and began pouring it into Hayden's glass. "I made the apple juice myself."

"Cool." Hayden said with a huge smile. "Can you show me how?"

"I would love to." Regina said happily. Hayden nodded as Regina pulled the pitcher away. Regina grabbed a wine bottle that was sitting there as well. "Wine?" She asked the adults. Emma and Ruby nodded.

"Yes please." Ruby said.

Regina chuckled and filled everyone's glasses. She sat the wine bottle down and everyone began their meals.

Emma took the first bite of lasagne and groaned. It was absolutely delicious. "This is amazing."

Ruby and Hayden mumbled in agreement.

Regina chuckled. "Thank you."

The table was completely quiet and all that could be heard was the clinking and clanking of the utensils against the plates. This went on for almost half way through the meal before Regina spoke up again.

"So I'm thinking that I can run some tests at my lab and we can go from there." She said gently. She looked up at Emma. "Her pediatrician sent her medical records and she appears to be perfectly healthy but I like to test for myself."

Emma nodded. "I get it. What does the testing entail?"

"Blood work mostly and an ekg. It could possibly include a brain scan." Regina replied. "Nothing too painful. Maybe slightly uncomfortable."

"Well Hayden was a premie so she knows a little something about needles." Emma said before taking a sip of her wine. She caught the sympathetic looks on the twins' faces.

Killian reached out and covered his sister's hand with his own. That must have been a soft spot for her. Emma didn't mean to make them feel uncomfortable. Regina inhaled and exhaled. Emma started to apologize but Regina spoke first.

"We know what it's like. Well at least Killian does." Regina said quietly and her brother squeezed her hand. "In utero, I was getting all of the nutrients and as a result I was ready before he was. My mother went into labour a few months early. In turn I could breathe and live on my own. He couldn't. I was ready to go home after a few days in the incubator while Killian spent weeks in the NICU."

"She blames herself." Her big brother added.

"It was my fault." She said. "We were both sickly but he got the most of it. All of his milestones were late and he was too small."

"But I'm bigger and stronger than you now, baby sis." He said with a chuckle. "Now stop it."

"I'm sorry I don't think I was a premie. I don't know much about myself because my parents didn't want me." Emma explained. "But I raised one and I know it's not easy."

Regina gave Emma a sad smile. "Yes but Hayden is a little warrior." She winked at the little girl and Hayden gave her a grin, her mouth covered in sauce.

"Oh." Regina chuckled. She picked up the girl's napkin and began wiping the child's face. Hayden giggled when Regina tapped her nose with the napkin. Emma watched on with a small smile. "There." Regina said once they could see the little girl's face again. "I'm assuming you liked it."

"I loved it." Hayden giggled. "Can you come cook for us at home? Mommy can't cook for me because well... She can't cook."

Regina's eyes met Emma's and Emma could feel her cheeks heating up and she knew she was turning a soft pink. "My mother tried to teach me but I couldn't get it."

"I can teach you." Regina offered simply. "At least enough so that you don't have to eat out every night."

"Nothing wrong with eating out." Ruby mumbled low enough for only Emma to hear.

"Or... poison me." Hayden added. Regina chuckled.

"Hayden." She said with a smile.

"Um... sure." Emma said with a shrug."That seems cool."

"I mean, we're all going to be spending a lot of time together so why not?" Regina said brightly.

"I would like to spend more time with her." Ruby whispered to Emma. Emma sighed.

"Yes." Emma agreed.

"So... I'm sorry." Mulan cut in. "But you said you were a foster kid. Well Granny told me that David and Mary Margaret adopted you at seventeen."

Emma nodded.."Yeah."

"What's your story?" Mulan asked.

Regina gave her a sharp look but Emma raised a hand telling her it was okay. She didn't mind telling her story anymore. She did when she was younger but now every time she tells it, it reminds her of how strong she is and how strong Hayden is. They've both overcome so much and they were only sitting there because of their strength.

"My parents gave me away when I was a newborn. I didn't even have a name. My social worker named me 'Emma' after her mother. I remember her telling me that she loved her mother more than anything." Emma said with a sad smile. "It was a kind gesture. The first kind gesture and the last for the rest of my life until I met my adoptive parents." She looked at Regina who was watching her with soft eyes. "And you."

Regina looked a little shy for a moment. "Was it hard?" She asked gently. Emma smiled a little.

"So hard. It was even harder when I had Hayden. No one wanted a kid with a kid. Well, except my parents." Emma said. "They took us in and loved us. We're a family now. At least we don't think about the bad stuff anymore.

Regina smiled. "That's good."

Emma smiled back. "It is."

They held each others eyes for a while. Emma's eyes widened at Regina's gaze and its what her eyes held and what it made her feel that caused her cheeks to begin heating up again. Regina's cheeks had colored a bright red before she looked away. Emma smirked a little. That was cute.

"Can we go see the beach?" Hayden asked and both women instantly looked down at her, grateful for the interruption.

"Of course." Regina said. "We can do whatever you like. They have carnivals here, there's the pool, there are shopping malls. Chuck E. Cheese."

Hayden gasped and her whole face lit up. "Can we do all of it?"

Regina smiled. "Yes. We can." She looked up at Emma. "If it's okay with your mother."

"Of course..." Emma said with a shrug. "Why not? Let's have some fun."

Regina smiled brightly then and Emma couldn't help but smile back. This woman...

"Ruby might want to come." Hayden pointed out. "She says she wants to have a playdate with you."

Regina looked at Ruby and Ruby wagged her brows at her. Regina simply smirked and looked down at Hayden again. "That so?"

"Yes and she wants to play horsie with you." Hayden added and Regina's brows shot up while Emma mouth flew open. "I haven't played since I was a kid." The child said placing her hand on her chest. "But I'm pretty sure you're supposed to sit on the person's back and not their face."

Regina's mouth fell open and she dropped her fork into her plate. Killian snickered while Mulan coughed to cover up a laugh. On the opposite side of the table Emma's face was flaming red and so was Ruby's. They were both mortified and Emma couldn't even manage to look up at Regina. She couldn't. They might have horrified the poor woman.

"Um..." Emma began. "I am so sorry."

"It's quite alright." Regina said sincerely. "Children... you know."

"Yeah." Emma sighed. "Kids."

"Did I do something wrong?" Hayden asked with a worried frown.

"No!" All of the adults said at the same time..

"No sweetheart." Regina said softly.

Emma gave Ruby a look and Ruby shrugged. Emma rolled her eyes. "It's fine."

Regina nodded in agreement. "It is. Actually. Are you done with your dinner?"

Hayden nodded with enthusiasm. "Yes. It was very good. Thank you."

Regina chuckled softly. "You are very welcome, Honey." She said. Hayden beamed. "I was thinking if you help me clear the table, you and I can make dessert."

Emma expected a comment from Ruby about Regina being dessert but her best friend stayed quiet. Clearly she's learned her lesson but Emma knew it wouldn't last.

"Really? I can help you?!" Hayden asked. Regina nodded and lifted her plate and reached for Killian's. He handed it over and Mulan handed over hers.

"I can help." Emma said as Hayden took her plate. Then made a grabby motion with her hand for Ruby's.

"It's fine." Regina said. "Really. I just think this would be fun for Hayden. I used to love baking with my grandmother and my father. It's soothing."

"Oh." Emma said with a smile. "If you're sure."

"I'm sure." Regina said returning the smile. She then turned on her heel leading Hayden into the kitchen. Emma watched them go then turned back to see Killian's eyes bouncing between her and Ruby.

"What?" Emma asked with a frown.

"Playing horsie, huh?" He asked through a chuckle. Emma just sighed with a shake of her head.

Leave it to Hayden.

It didn't take long for Regina and Hayden to clear the table. Once they put the lasagne dish into the refrigerator and filled the dishwasher, Regina instructed the little girl to wash her hand. Regina then did the same and began gathering the ingredients they would need.

"What are we making?" Hayden asked as she watched Regina lay out the ingredients. Regina looked over at the little blonde child and smiled. Her large green eyes were watching her with so much curiosity.

"Do you like sugar cookies?" Regina asked as she set the mixing bowl down in front of them.

"Yes. I've made them with my Grandma before." Hayden said happily. Regina nodded.

"I used to make them with my Grandma too." Regina said.

Hayden looked up at her with furrowed brows and a small smile. "Do you see your grandma a lot?"

Regina smiled sadly. "My grandma passed away a few years ago. I try to visit her grave often though. We talk about many things there."

Hayden placed her hand on Regina's. "What is her name?"

"Maria." Regina replied. "She was the kindest person I have ever known."

"You must be like her then." Hayden concluded. "She would be happy for what you are doing for me."

Regina nodded. "Thank you, Hayden. What a kind thing to say."

Hayden shrugged and blushed, momentarily shy. "Well it's true and my mommy always tells me to be honest."

"And that's a very good rule to have." Regina said. "I bet your mommy and grandparents, even Ruby are very proud of how you turned out. Such a sweet young woman."

Hayden smiled brightly. "If you think I'm cool now just imagine me with two arms."

Regina frowned. That's something that her brother used to say about his hands. She hated when he acted like he was not a whole person because he was missing one hand. "I think you're amazing now, Hayden. You are such a special little girl. You have so many people that love you. You have so many friends. And you know what?"

"What?"

"It would be an honour if I was your friend."

Hayden smiled wide and threw herself at Regina. Hugging her tightly around the waist. Regina instantly hugged the little girl back and she heard her whisper from where her cheek was pressed to her stomach. "You already are my friend."

Regina smiled softly. Hayden was by far one of the sweetest children she had ever met. She knew that she was making the right decision. Hayden was worth all of this and then some.

Hayden pulled away and grinned up at Regina. "At least when I have two arms I can hug you even better."

Regina tapped the little girl on the nose. "That hug was great. "

Hayden beamed. "You give good hugs too and you smell nice."

"Thank you, dear." Regina chuckled. "Now let's get to baking these cookies.."

Regina carefully walked Hayden through the ingredients. She taught her how to mix properly and how to roll the cookie dough out so that they could use the cute little heart and flower shaped cookie cutters. Hayden was a natural despite her little struggles due to her disability but she was strong and determined so she persevered. Regina found that she enjoyed baking with her and she wanted to do it more often. They placed the cookies on the cookie sheet and popped them into the oven.

"Now what?" Hayden asked.

"We wait." Regina said as she leaned back against the black counter. Hayden did the same as they watched the cookies through the glass oven door. "Tell me about your flight."

Hayden's face lit up. Hayden then went into the story of her journey there and Regina loved hearing the story through the eyes of a child. Hayden explained everything so big and so amazing and Regina hung on to every word. She had flown in her private jet before but she never had an experience like that. The two of them chatted away and before they knew it the timer dinged. Regina smiled at Hayden..

"They're done."

"Yay!" The little cheered.

Regina grabbed the oven mitts and opened the oven. She pulled the cookies out and admired how they were perfectly baked. Hayden stepped over to her as she sat the tray on the stove. Regina let the little girl admire them for a moment before moving them over to the window sill. She left them there to cool.

The two of them chatted some more. This time Regina telling Hayden about her job. It was the little girl's turn to hang on to every word. Hayden asked questions and Regina answered every one. Hayden seemed fascinated by all of it and couldn't wait to see Regina's office and lab. Regina was surprised because she thought her job would bore the child.

A moment had passed before Regina was checking the cookies again to find them cool enough to frost. She moved the cookies over to the counter. "And done. Let's decorate some cookies."

"Yay!" Hayden cheered yet again.

Regina and the little girl began frosting the cookies. Hayden giggled through most of it and Regina was a little giggly herself. It had been a long time since she's had someone to bake with and she was enjoying herself. It was nice to just kick back.

Once finished they put the multicolored cookies onto a white plate and Regina handed it to Hayden. The two of them took the plate to the dining room. Hayden grinned at her mother as she sat the cookies down in front of everyone.

"Ta-da!" She said proudly causing her mother and everyone else to chuckle.

"Wow. Nice." Emma said high fiving her daughter. Hayden giggled.

"Regina did it."

"No I just helped." Regina said waving it off. "This is all Hayden."

"So when I get food poisoning I know who to blame." Ruby teased. Hayden made a face and stuck her tongue out at her.

Ruby of course returned it getting an elbow from Emma. Regina shook her head with a smile and took her seat. So did Hayden.

She quietly watched the little girl as she told her mother with great excitement and detail of how they baked the cookies. The joy on the child's face and her kind nature made her so easy to love. Hayden was truly one of a kind and Regina felt fortunate to just have met her.

Thanks for reading! :)