The Chance Encounter

part nine

Chapter 9

Regina’s POV

Dammit. I hope Emma’s still waiting for me. I didn’t expect to be running so late. I should have just told her to meet me at our normal time. I was really hoping that we’d be able to spend some more time together.

I stop in my tracks ready to profusely apologize for taking so long when I hear Emma speaking to herself.

“Ugh, why am I so nervous about this? Why is it bothering me so much? It’s not like it's a date anyway. We’re just friends.”

My heart begins to ache. I thought she was my soulmate. I figured she would look at our time together as simple dates we were having. If she didn’t think this was a date, why would she put out such a nice spread with wine, crackers, cheese and grapes? I guess my soulmate just wanted to be friends. I really want to run away now, but I’m sure she’ll hear me if I try to run away now.

“Emma, I’m sorry I’m late. It was a bit harder to get away earlier.”

“It’s quite alright, Gina.” Gina, is the nickname that spread from Tink to Emma. I do enjoy it more when Emma calls me that though.

“So, what’s in the plans for tonight, Em?” I came up with her pet name, Em, on accident. When it slipped out a few nights ago, I had tried to take it back, but she said it had a nice ring to it. She said only I could call her that though.

“I’m not quite sure, but I think the night sky is looking quite extraordinary tonight. So, maybe we can continue with our usual conversations, and gaze up at the night sky. I brought some wine we can drink and snacks to munch on. Come take a seat while I light up our candles.”

“Sounds good to me.” I say quietly, still saddened by the idea of her thinking we’re just friends. I want so much more than that.

She seems to pick up on my tone, not being used to me answering shortly. “What’s wrong, Gina?”

“Nothing, I’m fine.”

“Gina, I know something is wrong. .What is it?”

“Emma, I’m fine.” I snap at her.

Emma looks at me shocked, and I can tell by her eyes, she’s a bit hurt by the harshness in my tone. “Okay. You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to.

“I think I should go.” I say softly, feeling a bit guilty for my tone.

“No, please don’t go. I.. I want you to stay.”

“Okay, I’ll stay on one condition.”

“And what would that be?”