EPOV
Bella practically ran up the stairs, my eyes became fixated on the source of her discomfort. Before I could say anything, Aro held his hand up, “Jane dear, please go upstairs and see if you can assist Isabella.”
“Yes Master.”
Caius stood as Jane moved towards the steps. “Edward, you know what I said was nothing but truth.”
“I don’t know any such thing.”
“Gentlemen please,” Aro was watching Jane and as soon as she reached the top of the stairs his attention turned to Caius. “You owe Edward and Isabella an apology.”
“I don’t apologize to subs, especially a newbie”
“That’s right; Isabella is new to this lifestyle. I’ve had one week to work with her, and she was doing remarkably well.”
I was going to continue but Caius broke in, “Edward you know that you have never trained a sub from the beginning, and it was very plain to all here that this Isabella is not being trained the way she should be. Perhaps you should hand her training off to me.”
“What? Are you out of your fucking mind?”
“Edward my boy there is no reason for the use of profanity,” Aro reprimanded me as only an uncle could.
“Edward you of course would oversee the training, then Isabella would be completely returned to you properly prepared.”
I didn’t even know what to say, I couldn’t believe my ears. This man insulted Bella and me in our own home, and he did it to try and get his hands on her.
“I want you out of my house”
“Edward, be reasonable,” Irena tried to interject, “Caius has a point. You began my training, but that didn’t go over very well. There was so much I was not prepared for.”
“Are you kidding? First off, our relationship was over four years ago and the reason you were not prepared had nothing to do with me. You went out to find something that there was no way in hell I was going to participate in. You want to be a pain slut, be my guest. You want to be whipped until you bleed, go find someone else. That was the problem with us Irena it had nothing to do with protocol.” Irena was not happy about me telling her personal business, but at that point in time I really didn’t care.
“Excuse me; I just have something to say…” Felix interjected. I turned my eyes in his direction. If he chimed in on this debacle, so help me God I was going to punch him in the face.
“…I take offence at being included in your comment about it being clear to all here that Isabella is not being trained properly. This is the second time I’ve met her, I find her to be gracious, respectful, and obedient to her Master. So do not either of you include me in this little game you are playing.”
“I was not including you, and I do not see this as a game. Forgive me, friend, for speaking out of turn. I just assumed that it was plain to anyone who can be objective. It is clear Aro has some kind of relationship with the submissive in question.”
“Her name is Isabella and you damn well know it!” I wanted to make it clear that I was not happy with what had just occurred here.
Caius sighed, “Yes Edward, I know her name is Isabella,” he continued speaking to Felix, “I also want to make it clear that because Aro is related to Edward it is hard for him to remain impartial. I was simply making an observation and what I felt to be a viable option to remedy the situation.”
Ok, I had enough of this conversation.
“First off, there is no situation. Second, I wouldn’t give Isabella to you or anyone else for that matter; she is mine, she wears my collar, she follows the rules and protocol that I set for her. So, if anyone has a problem with something she is doing or saying, they can take it up with me.” I needed to breathe and calm down, so that they would know my next statement was not just being said out of anger.
“Lastly, I expect an apology to both me and Isabella; and if you are not man enough to admit when you overstepped your place, then I have nothing more to say to either of you.”
“You would turn your back on all those years of friendship over a new submissive?” Irena questioned me with raised eyebrows.
“That would be your choice Irena. Isabella is my first priority; I cannot and will not have her be disrespected in her own home.”
She snorted rudely, “This is not her home Edward.”
“Isabella is here four days a week, she has more rights to feel safe and comfortable here then you do. How dare you think that you can insult her and then just walk away and call yourself reputable? If you two are the epitome of a proper dominate and you cannot or will not even admit when you are wrong, then I want nothing more to do with you, and you don’t deserve respect from anybody, especially Isabella.” I needed to make that point very clear.
“Edward is correct, even if what you say is accurate…,” my eyes shot to Aro, “…which it is not” He assured me quickly before turning his attention back to Caius and Irena, “It is not your place to correct another’s submissive. Edward is also correct in saying that if you have a problem with any submissive, you take that up with their Master. You never attack the submissive, and that is what you both did here; for whatever reason I cannot fathom. You both owe an apology to Edward and to Isabella.”
The two began to bicker with Aro about how they were just trying to show Isabella that her training was not as it should be and that they didn’t mean to attack her personally. I was getting angrier by the minute, Bella did absolutely nothing wrong, and she had hardly even said one word when the rude criticism started. I looked to Felix he was as dumbfounded as I was at their excuses. Looking to the stairs I felt a strong pull, Bella needed me.
“If you will excuse me, I want to go check on Isabella.” I said it more for Aro and Felix’s sake, as for the other two - I could care less if they found me rude, because frankly they didn’t deserve good etiquette.
“When we come down, I expect an apology or I expect you gone. The choice is yours.” I wanted to make that point perfectly clear.
The door to Bella’s room was cracked open; the hushed voices of the two women talking could barely be heard. Looking through the opening, I could see Bella and Jane were sitting on the bed crossed leg facing each other holding hands like they were old friends. Which I suppose in a way they were. This was Bella’s room, her private space so I knocked.
“Bella?”
“Come in Edward.”
She had been crying. That much was obvious, the splotchy face, and the red eyes were a dead giveaway; and it broke my fucking heart to see her so upset for no reason.
I sighed, “Come here baby.”
Bella bolted off the bed into my arms, the tears returning, “What did I do wrong?”
I pulled her tighter to me, running my hand down her back in smooth strokes. “Bella, you didn’t do anything wrong.”
Jane had gotten up and was standing next to us, “Edward, do you think it is safe to go back down?”
“I’m sure if it’s not, Aro will tell you.”
She nodded placing a comforting hand on Bella’s shoulder making her lift her head to acknowledge the gesture. “Bella, remember what I said, and I’ll call you Thursday, we’ll set something up, in the mean time you know how to get a hold of me.”
“Thank you, Jane.”
My aunt gave Bella the warmest smile, “Anytime sweetie.” Jane’s hand touched my arm as she moved by me with a nod adding, “You take care of her Edward.”
I didn’t answer instead I nodded once letting my aunt know that I fully intended to do just that. Once Jane left I sat on the bed with Bella on my lap.
“I’m sorry,” her voice was a quiet hush.
“What are you sorry for?” I couldn’t understand why she felt the need to place the disgraceful behavior of someone else on to herself.
“I shouldn’t have just stopped in; I didn’t know you had company. There were no cars in the driveway. I won’t do it again.” Her tears were flowing down over her cheeks as her voice shook.
My fingers wiped her tears away, I wanted her know that she should always feel at ease coming here. I meant what I said downstairs, this is her home too and she should never be afraid to come here, no matter who is here.
“Look at me…” Her eyes met mine, “you didn’t do anything wrong; what happened down stairs was an attack on me, not you. They took it out on you, and that was reprehensible, but I don’t want you to ever to feel uncomfortable in this house. You have more right to feel safe and secure here, then anyone else.”
I kissed her lips tenderly, getting a slight flavor of salt from her tears.
“I’m glad you stopped in, I was beyond pleased when I opened the door and you jumped in my arms. You make me very proud and happy Isabella.” A few more tears spilled out over her eyes, I wiped them away.
“It doesn’t matter what other people say, your only concern should be what I say or think, and I think you are incredible. Now stop crying, those two people downstairs aren’t worth your tears.”
Bella smiled then laid her head on my shoulder snuggling into the junction of my neck. I could feel her breath on my skin as she spoke, “Can we bring them up here?” she asked with a sniffle.
“Why?” I asked confused.
“So I can tell them to go fuck themselves.” I chuckled at her statement.
“It doesn’t work that way Bella, but I would love to see their face when you said it. Are you feeling better?”
“Yes,” she sighed.
“What time is your appointment with Tanner?” I tucked her hair behind her ear.
“Eleven…” her head moved to see the clock on the nightstand “…I have to go soon” she replied with a sigh.
My hand ran down Bella’s back to her bottom patting it gently. “Why don’t you go wash up?”
Bella left the door to the bathroom open so while she was in there, I talked to her. I was glad to hear that she at least gotten another hour of sleep and told her I would go over and search her yard for the missing collar. Five minutes later she emerged looking refreshed and professional.
“Are they still down there?”
I shrugged because I just didn’t know; I gave them both the choice so it was up to them. “If they are, I don’t want you to talk to them. Keep your chin up, your eyes down and your mouth closed. In fact, I don’t want you to say a word to either of them ever again.”
Bella looked in my eyes with a shrewd smile, “Alright, but just so you know--in my head I’m going to be telling them to fuck off.”
I grinned, “That’s my girl!”
I pulled her towards me for a kiss, which deepened without my permission when Bella’s hip brushed against my erection.
“Little Eddie wants to come out and play,” she giggled.
I growled at her banter, swatting her bottom making her yelp.
Everyone was still downstairs; they had set back to working on the plans for the anniversary party. Part of me had wished they would have left and the other part wanted them to humble themselves and apologize. To confirm to Bella that all people make mistakes but that honorable people try their best to correct them; and that even someone who calls themselves Dominates can and should admit when they are wrong.
The tension rolling off Bella was pungent, her body going into a self-protective stature. I could see for the first time her reaction to true panic. I wondered if this was the defense mechanism that she used against her husband, or did she cower away from him. I received my answer as soon as Caius and Irena approached us. They were smiling, but I could tell Bella did not trust them at all. Her body stiffened visibly trembling, her breathing became harsh and she readied herself as if she was going to be struck. Her eyes met mine only for a brief second and the desolation she was trying so hard to struggle against could no longer be hidden.
Bella wasn’t gaining any comfort from my presence and that pissed me off beyond measure.
Caius was the first to talk. “Don’t fear child, I’m afraid I owe you an apology. I forgot that you are so new and have not had time to perfect your skills. I’m sure that in time we shall all be good friends.” Bella remained quiet, in that damn defensive stance; her only indication that she even heard him was a nod.
Caius looked to me. “Edward again, I am truly sorry for any discord my harsh words caused. I truly was thinking only of good.”
Fuck you asshole, I didn’t know if Bella was thinking it, but I was. He never actually said he was sorry, just that he owed her an apology, I inclined my head once in acknowledgement of his words, though they were sorely lacking in sincerity.
Irena’s hand came out as if to touch Bella’s arm and she lost her composure, cringing away from the advancing contact.
“Irena, don’t touch her,” my voice was definite and unwavering.
“Excuse me?” Irena’s tone was a mixture of shock and irritation.
“You heard me. Say what you must, but don’t you ever attempt to touch Isabella.” I moved closer to Bella pulling her small body against my own. I could feel her strengthen at my closeness and cursed myself for not giving her the support she needed previously.
“I was not going to injure the girl Edward, I just wanted to offer her some comfort for my abrupt behavior earlier.” She looked to Bella and I hoped that she had listened and kept her eyes lowered.
“I had wished that we could move past the error that I made this morning and perhaps we could be friends. I’m sure Isabella is not one to hold grudges, and she could forgive me for being so unkind,” her voice lowered to a softer tone, “perhaps it was my resentment at seeing Edward so happy with another, as a woman you can understand that Isabella.”
What the fuck is she playing at now? “Irena.”
“Yes Ma…” Bella stiffened, I stood in shock while Irena sighed, “…old habits and all that,” she said flippantly. “Please forgive me Isabella; I am so very sorry for causing you any discomfort or anguish. If there is anything I can do for you, please do not hesitate to ask.”
Bella didn’t even nod to acknowledge Irena’s piss-poor attempt at an apology. I will be having words with her once Bella leaves. Irena returned to where she was sitting with a grin, whatever she had hoped to accomplish with her supposed slip I prayed would not work and that Bella would see through her words for what they were…bullshit.
“Come on, I’ll walk you out.”
“Are you leaving Isabella?” Felix asked and Bella looked to me; I nodded giving her permission to answer.
“Yes, it was nice to see you again. Enjoy the rest of your day.” Her voice was confident; he smiled and gave her a nod.
Jane looked up catching Bella’s eyes. They seemed to share a secrete moment, then Jane winked at her and Bella smiled. I would have to ask about that one.
Aro had come over placing Bella’s hand in the crook of his arm, walking her towards the door with me following. Once we were outside Aro spoke, “Isabella, please do not take what happened here today as a normalcy. I have no idea what got into those two, or why they would say what they did, but I will find out. I have never personally been so embarrassed in the presence of anyone as I was this morning.”
“It’s alright Aro, thank you for sending Jane up.”
“It’s not alright; unfortunately I cannot control the rudeness of others. However, if you would like, I believe that Jane can be of assistance to you, and she has expressed a desire to do so. That is something you should discuss with Edward, now if you will excuse me, I would like to get done in there so I can be rid of the company of certain people.”
Bella giggled at his smile, “Always the gentleman.”
Aro patted the back of her hand chuckling, “I endeavor to try, Ms. Swan.”
Bella was still smiling as my uncle went into the house; her full attention was back to me. I didn’t know what to say to her. Her gentle eyes shone with something, as the palm of her hand came up to cup the side of my face, sending that now familiar tingle through my cheek.
“Don’t look so distraught Edward; I’ve dealt with a lot worse than that.” She was so strong all of a sudden.
“I’m sorry baby; I should have given you more support in there.” I felt like I had let her down in some way.
“I have to stand up to people like that. It makes me tense, but I knew you and Aro were there and that made me feel safe. I won’t lie, their words hurt, and when Irena called you Master… I felt sick.” Bella stopped talking her hand dropped from my face as she turned her head to look away from me. My hand came up to her chin, she automatically met my gaze, tears were filling her eyes.
“That was a long time ago Bella, I have no idea why she would do that. She plays a Dom role most of the ti..” Bella interrupted me.
“It doesn’t matter Edward; Jane reminded me that I have two choices. And I will be damned if I allow some pompous ass and snotty bitch to deter me. I’ve allowed someone to influence me long enough, I let James take all the happiness out of my life, he made me feel worthless, and I won’t allow anyone to do that again. Whatever their game is, it won’t work.”
God I love this woman.
What? Love?...no…admire, yes admire, respect, care for her. That’s what a Dom does for his submissive. Bella’s sigh brought me out of my conjecture.
“I have to go, or I’m going to be late.”
Standing by her car door, I pulled her to me, kissing her lips, “I’ll call you later; we’ll go out for dinner.”
“I can cook.”
“I’d rather go out,” I was hoping to have a surprise for her later, she nodded in assent. “Drive careful and I hope your day get’s better baby.” I told her opening the car door.
She quirked a smile, “It can’t get much worse.”
I watched her back out of the driveway and turn the corner heading downtown. Love?
Inside the house everyone was debating what band to have, who should have stage time, and whether the private rooms would be open for the party. Irena continued giving me an evil grin as if she was proud of herself. I ignored her for the moment. It was close to one before everything was settled. In a show of unity Caius and Irena were leaving together.
I followed them outside, “Irena what was up with you calling me Master?”
She turned, “It was a slip Edward, an honest mistake.”
“Don’t give me that. You did it on purpose and whether it was to drive a wedge between Isabella and me, or simply to hurt her feelings, I have no clue. But whatever amusement you got from it, I sincerely hope it was worth it to you. I just want to know why?”
“I told you Edward, it was a slip.” Irena said flippantly
“Edward we apologized to both of you, if Isabella’s feelings were hurt, perhaps she needs to get tougher skin.” Caius smirked at the double meaning behind his words.
I glared at Caius, “I don’t want either of you to ever talk to Isabella again.”
They both huffed in irritation; I wasn’t going to tell them that I instructed Bella not to speak to them. That was just between us.
“Have a good day Edward.” I didn’t answer Caius; instead I went inside shutting the door.
The other three were still sitting in the living room.
“Everything alright?” Felix asked.
I shrugged, “Your guess is as good as mine. I just don’t see what they hoped to gain from their little display this morning.”
Felix thought for a minute, “Isabella is very beautiful with an innocent quality that can be rather intriguing, maybe Caius is just infatuated with her and wants her for his own?”
“She wears my collar, why would he do that? Besides she is not that innocent, she knows the ways of the world. If that was his motive, insulting her is not exactly in his best interest. At this point I highly doubt Bella will ever look at Caius, not to mention trust him. And why in the world would Irena chime in, what’s in it for her?”
Felix raised his eyebrow as if to suggest that I already knew the answer to that question.
I shook my head, “No way, Bella would never go for that.”
“It seems to me Edward that the attack was more directed at you. Have you had any words or problems with either of them recently?” I thought over Aro’s question for a minute shaking my head.
“Irena invited me upstairs a few weeks ago, I declined, what she does is just not my thing. To each their own, whatever gets them through the night, but I don’t want to be involved. She knows that, it’s never been a problem before. And Caius, I barely talk to. I wasn’t rude, in fact I haven’t even seen him since open door night and then I just said hello. Was he even there on Saturday? ”
“Yes he was, I spoke to him briefly about this meeting today. He indicated that he thought you were going to be too busy with Isabella’s training to get anything done. I assured him that was not the case and even if it was we would work around it.”
“I seen him Saturday, but I didn’t speak with him. You weren’t there very long Edward.” I agreed with Felix. I only went to introduce Bella to the whole prospect, and to get her accustomed to the surroundings. Plus, I knew that Ray - the rope master - would be doing a demonstration and I wanted Bella to see it. I wanted to keep all the prying eyes off her, so I went on the defense when Felix came to speak to her. I knew that if I allowed her to converse with him, others would feel entitled to do the same. At that moment she was anxious enough and the less she had to interact with others the better.
Felix finished his beverage, excusing himself. He needed to get to his place of business. As I walked him to the door, he turned to look at me, “Edward I have no idea what Caius and Irena hoped to gain today. But if I were you, I would keep an eye on them.” I agreed with him, asking that he keep his ear to the ground.
Inside my aunt and uncle was still sitting as they had been, Aro on the couch with Jane kneeling by his feet.
As I sat on the chair opposite Aro he spoke, “I’ve known Caius for almost twenty years, I can’t say that we bonded, nor could I say that we have had animosity. He is an active member who has never insinuated any discord and yet I found that I could never fully confide in him. For whatever reason, there was always a distance between us.”
“Master, if your girl may speak?” Aro inclined his head giving Jane silent permission. “It appeared to your slave that he was indicating a bond between Master and Isabella. Perhaps he fears some kind of solidarity between Master and Edward, with Isabella being the common link. If he could break that link by being Isabella’s trainer he could gain Master’s favor.”
“You mean use her as a pawn?”
“Yes Edward, that is what Master’s slave means. Perhaps he is envious of the attention Master gives to Isabella and he is afraid that Master would give extra favor to Edward, in order to please her.”
“That’s insane!” I said at the same time Aro began talking, “My affiliation with Isabella is no one’s business but the people who are in this room!”
Jane’s head lowered. Aro immediately touched her cheek, “Forgive me my dearest for losing my temper, I did not mean to shout at you.”
“Yes Master.”
“Jane?” She looked to me. “Envious how?”
“Time, attention, familiarity, this girl was ill on open door night, however by Sunday morning the blog was over flowing with speculation on the relationship between Master and Isabella. Where she came from, how she received Master’s card, the resentment was clear in almost every comment.”
“There was also much written on you Edward, and the fact that you were not there all weekend only added to the assumptions. Of how Master brought Isabella to New Moon as a gift for you. For you to practice your training skills, so you could take over the club for Master. There was another that suggested that when you are done and Isabella’s training was complete she would then be turned over to Master for his harem. Or that you would place her in the auction.”
“What? Did you know this?” Aro raised his eyebrow at my question.
“I only know of what Jane had informed me of, there is a lot more speculation. Which given your history you cannot blame anyone for questioning your motives.” He then laughed, “I on the other hand wasn’t aware I had a harem, I find myself having enough trouble dealing with one slave, if I had to take care of another, you just might get the club quicker then they think.” Aro chuckled at his comment, but frankly I foiund the rumors to be vulgar.
“Is this something I should tell Bella?” I really was only thinking out loud, but Aro wasted no time in answering.
“Of course you tell her, and then you show her. I would not allow her to reply, your relationship is your own. What happens within that relationship is no one’s business.”
“You don’t think that our quiet will only add to the speculation, making the rumors worse?” I worried outloud.
“There will always be rumors Edward. I see you gaining Isabella’s trust. Today when you placed your arms around her I watched as her fortitude grew profusely. Keep building your relationship from the inside, and do not allow any outside forces to disrupt it. Let them say what they will; as long as the Dominate is always honest, open, and trustworthy, the submissive will gain her power within those confines. That is what I witnessed here today.”
Aro smiled, “You should try to make your presence known. Don’t hide Isabella from the prying eyes, as the others begin to see what I saw today, the rumors will begin to halt, and those that are creating them will lose credibility.”
“We will not be here this weekend, we already made plans for the cabin.”
Aro hummed, “Hmm…perhaps you could come in on Sunday, if for no other reason but to do the sign-in count. Isabella could sit with Jane or take her into the office with you. Make one round upstairs, introduce her to several people and then excuse yourself. That way people can see her for themselves.”
I agreed with that and was glad for Aro’s words of wisdom; that thought reminded me, “Jane, you would be willing to mentor Isabella?”
“Yes Edward, Master had already spoken and given permission to his slave to assist Isabella if she so desired. While upstairs it was mentioned to her, she seemed to find joy in the prospect. Master’s slave told her to ask her own Master’s permission.”
“I will talk to her about it tonight.” Jane shocked me when she blurted out.
“No!” earning a reprimanding tone from Aro, “Jane.”
Her excited eyes immediately lowered to the floor after a few seconds she explained herself, “Excuse your slave Master, she should have controlled herself.” Aro gave her permission to continue with her thoughts.
“Edward, it needs to be Isabella’s desire, not her Master’s, to seek guidance or she will not be open to the friendship and will in turn resent it.”
“Jane is correct Edward, allow Isabella come to you if it is her desire to seek assistance.” Aro sighed, “I believe it is time for us to go, I think I shall take my outspoken slave to lunch.” As we stood on the porch saying good-bye, Aro asked Jane where she would like to eat.
“McDonald’s”
Aro groaned, “Jane I meant food, not grease on a bun.” She lowered her head, resigned to his decision. Aro shook my hand before adding “Edward would you like to come to McDonald’s for lunch with us?”
I smirked at his expression, “No, thank-you.”
Inside I cleaned up from our meeting, putting the papers into the folder, clearing the cups and dishes from the light snacks I had laid out. I was thinking about all that was said in the last half hour. I better sit down with Bella and have a discussion with her, but not tonight. She had an emotional breakdown last night, I felt guilty about that, making her tell me what happened with her neck. I tried to hold her tight and as my arms pulled her body closer to me, she would settle down.
The more I heard about her married life, or perhaps I should say married hell, the more I wanted to track James down and kick the shit out of him. Once she was done talking her body was shaking so much all I could do was clutch her tightly, rocking her gently while whispering words of comfort, hoping that my presence would give her some peace.
She tossed and turned talking about hands and repeatedly saying, ‘it hurts’, while she cried in her sleep. Finally around four she seemed to settle down, by four-thirty I thought it was safe to leave her. My intentions were to go get my grade book and computer, then return. I left her a note, hoping that she would never have to read it, but no such luck.
I had just gathered all the paperwork when Bella texted me, saying that she was awake. I could have kicked myself for leaving her, but I didn’t really have a choice, the grades had to posted by eight. I told Bella I would come back, but she said she was going to take a bath, and I know how long she enjoys sitting in the warm water. I implored her to get some more sleep.
Everyone was coming to my house at nine-thirty to discuss the plans for the Anniversary Ball. Bella didn’t text me back, by six the grades were done, and I fell asleep only waking a little before nine. A quick shower and a cup of coffee, and I was ready when Felix arrived, Aro and Jane were next. When I opened the door for Caius, Irena was just coming up the walkway.
“Edward you look like hell, is that new submissive of yours keeping you up at night?” Irena laughed at her own comment.
I smirked, “Something like that.” I certainly wasn’t going to go into any personal business with Irena.
“Where is your new girl Edward, I have yet to meet her?” Caius looked behind me.
“Isabella is not here at the moment,” I told Caius.
I knew everyone was curious to see her, but they would just have to wait.
“I met her on Saturday; she seems like a lovely girl Edward.” I nodded at Felix’s comment but it was my uncle who spoke, “Isabella is a very lovely girl and my slave is disappointed that she is not here.”
“Well, are we here to talk about my submissive or the Party?” I looked around impatiently at their faces.
Everyone helped themselves to the refreshments I had set out, and we got down to business.
When the doorbell rang I was surprised; I didn’t think we were expecting anyone else, so when I opened the door to see a very tired looking Bella I was startled, and then even more shocked when she jumped in my arms, but it only took a second to enjoy the feel of her against me.
Aro cleared his throat and when I put Bella down, I turned to see his broad smile, Felix’s grin and the other two had a look of confusion. I thought they just didn’t know who had attacked me, so I introduce her. I never would have guessed at the drama that unfolded. After the night she had, that was the last thing Bella needed.
I sighed, what was done was done; all I can do now is move forward.
I looked at my watch -1:18- she should be done with Tanner by now, I pressed her number receiving her voice mail. That wasn’t unusual when she was at the center, “Hello my Bella, I was just thinking of you and wondered how your meeting went. Please call me when you can.”
I had a few errands to run, but I wanted to stop by Bella’s to see if I could solve the mystery of the missing collar.
Bella’s yard isn’t that big, she has tall shrubs lining both sides, creating a natural privacy fence. As I searched through the yard, Seth came out to join me. “Hey boy, where did your collar go?” I asked while I rubbed his ears. Under one of the bushes I found a tennis ball which I threw making him run after it, then proceeded with my search while playing a game of fetch.
I had just finished searching, having coming up empty handed, when Bella returned my call.
“Hey baby, did everything work out with Tanner?” I asked, hoping she had been successful.
“Hi, it went better than I expected. He seems like a nice man, a bit gruff at first, but he is willing to work with us and it looks like moving day will be Friday.”
“Are you going to need help with that?”
“No, I don’t believe so. There isn’t much, she just has some clothes, books, and a few personal items. One trip with a few boxes should do it. Thank you for offering though.”
“Your welcome, I searched your whole yard, I don’t see that collar. Did you search thouroughly in the house; maybe it got kicked under the couch or something, would you mind if I checked?”
“I did look, but if you want to check, go ahead.” I was going to do just that, because frankly it irritated me that something like that would be misplaced.
“Are you staying at the center until four?”
“Actually only until three-thirty, then I’m going to the gym. I should be home by five-thirty.”
“I’ll see you at five-thirty then.”
“I have to shower and stuff Edward. That will take me an hour, especially if I have to dry my hair.”
“I’ll wait for you.” I just wanted to see her and make sure she was truly alright and I missed her, which was fucking insane because I just seen her this morning. We said our good-byes and I headed into the house.
Bella’s home was not what I would call messy, but she did have a habit of leaving things lay around. The kitchen table had a foiled cover plate on it and what appeared to be some kind of bread wrapped in wax-paper inside a Ziploc bag. Walking into the living room, the roses I sent her were placed in the center of the coffee table, with the opened card leaning against the crystal vase.
Looking under her couch, I laughed pulling out the shoes that she wore yesterday from underneath. After looking under the two chairs and finding nothing I made my way into her spare room. I had only ever been in here once before, that was the day I ran into her at the park, or rather Seth ran into me. That was a little over a week ago, and yet so much has changed that it feels like a lifetime ago.
As I looked under the shabby love seat I couldn’t see anything, because the space was filled with games. I figured the best way to look would be to lift it. I stood behind the ugly brown plaid piece of furniture tilting it forward. There were at least ten boxes of games under there and a phone book. I shook my head chuckling; doesn’t she have anywhere else to store these? Well one thing’s for sure there was no collar under there. After a quick survey of the room, I headed into her bedroom.
The bed was unmade, with two towels thrown over the chair in the corner. A coffee mug sat on her dresser, with another one on the nightstand by her clock. Lifting up the dust ruffle I peered under the bed, there were a few plastic totes but that was all. I checked her closet thinking that maybe if it had been left open, perhaps Seth had wondered in there.
She had built in shelves to house shoes, but most were empty with the shoes lying on the floor instead. The chest along the wall where Bella had removed her corsets from had a light yellow shirt on top of it. I didn’t move much around, thinking that if Seth had gotten it caught on anything it would have been in plain sight.
The last place I had to look was the bathroom. There was a basket on top of the sink that held Bella’s personal stuff, makeup, deodorant, stuff like that, but no sign of what I was looking for. On my way back into the kitchen I took the coffee mugs with me, rinsing them before placing them into the dishwasher.
On a whim I went out the front door, thinking that maybe Seth would have come out front. Walking down the narrow sidewalk I checked the edge of the shrubbery, once I reached the end of Bella’s property. I turned to take in the whole scene letting my eyes scan over the grass. Something glimmering caught my attention by the tree. As I got closer I could see the black nylon, and the source of the glimmer, Seth’s license, wedged against a rock that boarded the base of the tree.
Well that mystery was solved. Seth must have gone out front to do his business by the tree and gotten the collar stuck, where the safety latch disengaged leaving it lie wedged in the rocks. Putting the collar on the kitchen table, I reset the alarm system. I had about two hours before Bella came home, and I wanted to go to the adult store, I had seen a new toy for Bella on-line and I wanted to pick it up for this weekend.
Before entering the store, I had a phone call that needed to be placed. Going through my contacts, I found who I was looking for. After a few rings he answered.
“Alex, this is Edward Cullen. I was wondering if you had some time to see me tonight?”
My original Fan-fiction
Mine
A riding crop and a blindfold doesn't make it BDSM. There is a big difference between being kinky and being in the scene. It's not a sexual thing to me, it's a very spiritual thing. ~ DominaBlue
3/24/11
Chapter 18
EPOV
“You’ve got to be kidding?”
My father sat there looking at mom with a sly grin on his face.
“What song is it mom?” Our mother handed Alice the paper, once she read it a loud sigh escaped her while Bella and Rose glanced at the song that they would have to perform.
Mom still had not taken her eyes off dad.
“You going to renege on the terms of the game?” Look out, dad was getting cocky.
“Not at all,” Mom smirked, “come on girls.”
The girls started to follow mom into the house when dad yelled, “Oh, and it better be good too.”
Mom stopped abruptly, glanced over her shoulder with a sly smile, “It’s always good, dear.”
Dad and grams chuckled, while I made a face, and Emmett spoke up, “Please stop that.” Which made Jasper laugh.
Half an hour later the unmistakable sound of a bass being plucked came over the outside speakers. The girls walked slowly towards the open space between us and the hearth. Their fingers snapped to the beat while they walked carrying wooden folding chairs in their other hand.
They must have raided dad’s closet, because they were all dressed wearing dinner jackets and high heels. Brimmed hats adorned their heads with all their hair tucked up inside. As they strutted snapping their fingers, their chins were down so the brim of the hats covered their eyes.
Mom stayed in the front while the other three formed a line to her rear, each of them opening their chairs. The girls sat on the edge of the seats with their legs bent and their bodies facing towards the left. The girls continued snapping while mom started singing.
Never know how much I love you
Never know how much I care
When you put your arms around me
I get a fever that's so hard to bear
You give me fever
All four of them started singing, and as they did the girls that were seated kept their heads down and straddled the edge of their chairs showing off what I assumed to be their bathing suit bottoms.
Fever when you kiss me
Their bottoms slid to the back of the chairs
Fever when you hold me tight
They wrapped their arms around themselves
Fever ... in the mornin'
Swaying their upper bodies rubbing their hands down their sides and uncrossing them to rest on the chair
Fever all through the night
Sliding their butts forward to the edge of the chair opening and closing their thighs twice all the while keeping their heads down
Holy Fuck!
While mom sang the next verse the girls stood with their head still down snapping and walking to the back of their chairs
Sun lights up the day time
Moon lights up the night
I light up when you call my name
'cause I know you're gonna treat me right
You give me fever
They all sang again, this time gripping the chair corners and swiveling their hips to a squat and then back up again
Fever when you kiss me
Their right legs came over the top of the chair resting their foot on the seat
Fever when you hold me tight
They wrapped their arms around themselves running their fingers down their sides
Fever ... in the mornin'
Thrusting their hips forward into the corner of the chair
Fever all through the night
Stuck their butts out; hitting their asses with an audible slap, making my dick twitch. Holy Fucking God! Wow!
Everybody's got the fever
That is somethin' you all know
Fever isn't such a new thing
Fever started long time ago
You give me fever
While mom sang the girls picked up their chairs turning them backward and straddling them. I don’t know what my mother was doing; I couldn’t take my eyes off of Bella. Emmet elbowed me in the side, and when I looked him he had the same expression as Dad and Jasper. The testosterone level was rising fast.
“Damn our women are hot!” I couldn’t answer I was too mesmerized. All I could think about was the way her body was moving and how fucking hard my dick was.
As they sang the chorus, their bottoms slid back and forth on the chair
Fever when you kiss me
Fever when you hold me tight
Their left hand came up to remove the hat, letting their hair fall free
Fever ... in the mornin'
Fever all through the night
Moving their shoulders to the beat of the music while they starting snapping again
Mom sang some more, while the girls stood up circling their chairs snapping their right hand,
Now you've listened to my story
Here's the point that I have made
Cats were born to give chicks fever
Be it Fahrenheit or centigrade
When they got back to where they started from they leaned over the chair placing the hats on the seat.
Flinging their heads back when they stood up so we could see their faces, Bella wasn’t as red as I thought she would be. She looked like she was enjoying it. They all sang the next lines, rotating their hips to the beat.
We give you fever when we kiss you
Fever if you live and learn
Fever till you sizzle
Each one took a turn singing the line, turning to the left, holding the corner of the chair with their left hand while using their right to pick up their hat on the seat.
First mom
What a lovely way to burn
Then Alice
What a lovely way to burn
Then Rose
What a lovely way to burn
Then Bella
What a lovely way to burn
Ah
They moaned the last word in unison, thrusting out their right hip and placing the hat back on their head.
BPOV
Oh my word, I can’t believe I had just done that. When we lost the game and Esme showed us what song we had to sing, I didn’t think it would be so bad. Then when we went inside I was told we not only had to sing, but more or less had to perform, I was mortified, because I really can’t dance.
Esme quickly took us over the moves we would be doing, and we did a run through. It was simple enough, and if I got stuck, they told me to ‘just follow Esme.’ I could do that. Then Esme left returning with dinner jackets and hats. Alice said something about wearing our swim suits underneath.
“Umm…I don’t know if I can do this,” I was starting to freak out.
“Sure you can,” Alice assured me.
“Alice get Bella a lemon drop,” Esme said putting her arm around me, “its simple dear, and most of the time you will have the hat on.” Alice handed me the shot of vodka with the sliced lemon. After I finished the shot, Esme wanted to go through it one more time wearing our outfits.
Alice poured me another shot, doing one herself, “Why did they pick this song?” I asked her.
Esme was helping tuck Roses hair under the hat when she answered me, “When I was in college, I was in the stage performers; this is one of the songs we did. Carlisle was in the audience one night -with another girl I might add- and at the after party, he approached me, telling me how much he liked my performance and we started talking, the rest is history.”
“What happened to the other girl?”
She shrugged, “She went home alone.”
We all laughed, and after the third shot, I was ready.
Walking outside, Esme looked at me, “You’ll be great.”
I gave her a relaxed smile, I don’t know if it was the feeling of acceptance or the three shots, but I wasn’t tense at all. My body felt the beat of the music, I got a little confused once or twice, but I just followed Esmes cue and picked it right back up. When it was my turn to sing the last line, I picked up the hat, we all moaned “Ah..” placing the hat on our head and thrusting out our right hip.
Edward’s gram started clapping, but the men just sat there with their mouths open staring at us, it was kind of unnerving. Finally Carlisle got up and took Esme in his arms wrapping her in a hug.
“Do I still got it?” she giggled.
“You still got it, and I want it,” he murmered.
I blushed at the exchange of affection between Edward’s parents. The other guys finally got off their chairs; Edward was still starry eyed as he hugged me.
“Are you alright?” I asked him.
He bent down to whisper in my ear, “damn Bella... Holy shit…”
I giggled because that seemed to be the only words he was capable of forming at the minute.
When we came back down from changing, they had moved the seating closer to the fire. Emmett had already made copies from the video Edward’s grams had shot of our performance. When I sat down next to Edward, he handed me a glass of wine.
“Thank you.”
“Your welcome,” he kissed my cheek. Edward put his arm across my shoulders and I snuggled into his side. This is where I wanted to be ever since we arrived this morning, sitting by the fire wrapped in Edward’s embrace.
We sat around not talking about anything in particular. Alice wanted to go to the beach for a mini vacation, and we sat there discussing which beach to go too. She decided she would investigate some options and get back to us. My body nuzzled closer to Edward and I stifled a yawn.
“Are you getting tired babe?” He quietly asked.
“Just a little, I’m really relaxed,”I nodded.
He checked his watch “We should get going, so we can make the 11:10 ferry, besides I would hate for you to fall asleep and start telling secretes.” He chuckled while I smirked at him.
The ferry was just arriving when we got to the dock, so we had a few minutes to wait before we could board. Edward’s hand reached over to take a hold of mine.
“Thank you for coming with me today” His eyes held nothing but sincerity.
“You’re welcome; I had a really nice time. Your grams is great, does she live here?”
“Yes, on the other side of the Island, she has a view of Victoria”
“We should go there”
“To grams?” I laughed
“No…well we could visit her, but I was thinking of Victoria. I haven’t been there in a long time.” Edward leaned over to kiss me softly, and then he stared into my eyes.
“We could do that. Can you take any time away from your work at the center?”
I thought about it for a minute, “Sure or we could do a long weekend trip.”
Edward sat back in his seat, put the car in gear and boarded the ferry. Due to the late hour there was only a hand full of vehicles and maybe a dozen walking passengers. Edward was quiet while we waited for the ferry to move. Something was bothering him, but I didn’t know what. It was so quiet that the knock on the window startled me.
Edward turned the key, rolling down the window to talk to his brother. “Are you staying in the car?”
Edward nodded, “Yes, Isabella’s tired.”
Shit he called me Isabella.
“Do you have your journal?” When he spoke his voice had that edge to it that told me exactly what mood he was in.
“Yes sir.”
He didn’t say anything; he just held his hand out waiting for me to fill it. I wasted no time retrieving it from my purse placing it in his hand. Edward reached over opening the glove compartment, fishing around until he pulled out a pen, and started writing. It didn’t take him long, when he closed the journal I thought he was going to give it back to me, but he just held it.
“Isabella, what are your concerns about next weekend?”
I turned to look at him, how many times do I have to tell him? “I told you…” my voice was slightly irritated. Edwards head shot in my direction, his face was taunt, his eyes were dark and not from lust.
“Isabella, lower your eyes right now, and I suggest you get your emotions under control.” His voice wasn’t angry, but he wasn’t fooling around either.
I immediately dropped my eyes to my lap, sitting very straight in my seat.
“Now I have asked you repeatedly today to tell me your concerns, I have heard everything except the real reason. I’m not in the habit of pulling information out of someone. When I ask for an answer, I want a clear, concise, and honest answer-immediately.” He stopped talking for a few seconds, I remained quiet. “Now, tell me.”
My head began to turn in his direction.
“Keep your eyes down.”
I dropped my eyes back to my lap. “Sir, I..this girl has told you, that she was wondering if we are not home when we would have our usual?”
“That can’t be, because you just said that you would go to Victoria on the weekend, and if I’m not mistaken the weekend is our usual. So what is the difference?”
I thought about it. I knew what the difference was; but how could I say it without sounding like I was selfish, or so engrossed with him that I didn’t want to share his attentions? Because that wasn’t the reason. Well, if I was being honest with myself that was part of it, but only a small part.
“Isabella,” he was growing impatient.
I swallowed and just started talking, “Sir, the difference is that other people will be there.” Before I could sound like some neurotic bitch, I went on to explain, “Sir, if…when we are at home, I…your girl feels free to be what her Master expects her to be. When other people are there, your girl doesn’t know if she would be comfortable around them.”
“Look at me.”
My whole body shifted in his direction and when our eyes met, I thought there was understanding in them.
“I’m assuming by comfortable you don’t mean in a basic relaxed way; because you didn’t look anxious today when you attacked Emmett, or when you doing that song. So you mean comfortable in your sub mode.” I nodded and was going to talk, but he continued, “The way around that Isabella is by using a modified approach.”
He told me this earlier, before going to his parents house and I understood that.
“Besides Isabella, even if we went away there would always be other people around.”
“Yes sir. I…your girl understands that; but we would have a private area where we could be alone. Master, your girl is so new to this lifestyle and she feels insecure at times when it comes to her submission. She just feels like she needs as much…practice as possible. If there are people around, even…friends for the whole weekend, your girl feels like she would be missing time that she needs to perfect her service to you.”
“I understand what you are saying, but submission is more of a state of mind. With a modified approach, it allows you to stay in sub mode while not making those around you uncomfortable. Em and Rose wouldn’t care, whereas Alice and Jasper on the other hand would be offended. As her statement about our ‘kinky sex life’ could attest to.” The kinky sex comment made me wince, because that was embarrassing.
“It also would be good practice for you. But I understand what you are saying about the whole weekend, and not having the alone time where we can be in full mode. So I propose a compromise. Friday would be our…usual, and we would leave after breakfast on Saturday. Then instead of ending at six on Sunday we could continue the rest of the night ending our …usual Monday morning, if you would like to?”
I sat in the car looking into Edward’s eyes; his face was illuminated from the lights over the parking deck.
“So on Saturday would be in modified sub mode?”
“Yes, and we would still have the alone time that we both need Isabella.”
I was confused. He knew what he was doing, I was the beginner.
“Don’t doubt for a minute that I don’t need to spend alone time with you either. I might have more experience in this lifestyle, but I don’t have very much experience with Isabella. I need time, and hands on familiarity in order to perfect my skills in that area.” Edward smiled slyly, making me blush at his suggestiveness.
“Alright, that sounds like a good idea. I’ll…,” he raised his eyes, making me sigh; “your girl will just stay over until Monday morning.”
“Good. With that settled, tell me why it took all day long and me losing my temper to get you to answer my question?”
“There was always someone interrupting and I…this girl,” I sighed, wondering if I was ever going to get it straight, “she wasn’t sure how to state her reasons without sounding like she was a selfish, spoiled brat who wants to get her own way.”
“Come here,” he pulled me closer to him, tucking me under his arm. “You should never hesitate to tell me how you feel, or what you need. If you come off sounding selfish or spoiled, I will definitely tell you. It is more important that you respond to my questions, expeditiously. There is a writing assignment in your journal, I want it done by Wednesday.”
“Yes Sir.” Three writing assignments in three days, damn, I wonder if that is a record, well at least I’m consistent. Emmett tapped on the window while Rose waved to me as they returned to the bike. Ten minutes later we were driving towards home. It was almost midnight when Edward pulled into my driveway. He held his hand out for me to get out of the car.
Kissing Edward was turning out to be one of my favorite pastimes, nestled in his arms with the warmth radiating off his body. Mixing with the scent of his skin, along with the zing I felt whenever I touched him; it was both gratifying and lulling at the same time. He pulled back running his hand down the edge of my jaw. “Ah, my Bella, it’s late you should go inside.”
“Are you coming in?”
He gave me that crooked smile, “Do you want me to come in?”
I nodded. Yes, I was hoping he would sleep over, I felt safe and I didn’t hear every little creak when he was with me.
“I’ll come in for a little while, but then I have to go.”
Ok, so much for good sleeping, he must have seen the displeasure on my face because he sighed before continuing, “I’ll tell you what, how about I stay until you are asleep? Then you won’t even miss me.”
“That’s ok Edward, I’m a big girl, you don’t have to stay if you don’t want to,” I said putting on my bravest face.
“I didn’t say I didn’t want to, I said I can’t. There is a big difference. I have to finish getting the grades reported; I have them done, just not all reported yet. So, that is my bad.”
Seth was glad to see us, he had been alone all day, and was desperately in need of attention and food. After filling his bowls, I bent down to pet his head; and I noticed his collar was missing. Looking around the room, I didn’t see anything; I stood and started looking around the house. Where could it be, it had a safety latch on it, so if it got caught on anything, it would come apart rather than strangle him. But I didn’t see it anywhere.
I was just ready to go look outside when Edward came out of the bathroom. “Where are you going?” I told him about the collar and I thought maybe it would be outside. “How does his door work, does he need it to get in and out?”
“No, it works with the implanted chip. The collar is for the invisible fence. He knows the boundaries, but I keep it on him just in case and the collar has his license and rabies information on it. It has to be here, he had it on this morning when I brought him home on the leash.”
We walked around the yard, but it was dark and even with the security light, we couldn’t find it.
“It must be here somewhere; I’ll find it in the morning.” When we went back into the house, I located the second collar for the invisible fence and placed that on Seth, yawning.
“Come on let’s get you to bed, it’s been a long day.
Fifteen minutes later, I was being spooned in my bed. Edwards’s lips traveled down my neck and over my shoulder, making me hum in contentment.
“Thank you for this weekend Isabella.” I smiled at his words of praise.
“You’re welcome, but I should be thanking you” he chuckled in my ear, moving the hair off my neck; he kissed my scar, making me stiffen.
“Tell me about this Bella,” his nose ran over the six inch deformity.
“What do you want to know?” My voice sounded distant.
“Why? Why did he do it?”
I closed my eyes; I hated thinking about that night. I still didn’t understand why Edward wanted to know this, but he persisted in hearing the worst. Actually that wasn’t the worst and I don’t know what he would think of me; if he ever heard about the story of the night James came here. I shuddered at the memory. Edward responded to my reaction by holding me tighter against his body.
“I always wanted to go to Dartmouth; it was like my unattainable dream. When we talked about getting married James was all for college, not Dartmouth of course, but it was ok with me that I would have to settle. But after our marriage James hated the fact that I was in school, he said it took too much time away from him, and that I thought I was better and smarter than him, because all he was ever going to do was work in his parents store. But I never thought like that, I tried to tell him that I was going to school to better both our lives, but he didn’t see it like that.”
“Why would he agree to begin with?”
“Charlie had the insurance money put away for me in a trust…”
“Insurance money?”
“Yes from my mom and Phil, life insurance. I was the sole beneficiary; Charlie put all the money into a trust until I was twenty-five. I could use it to go to college, or once I was married to buy a house but only at his discretion. When I married, Charlie said I was too young, and he didn’t trust James at all, so he wouldn’t release any of it. That was ok with me; it didn’t matter and I figured we would get by like any other young couple, but it wasn’t ok with James.”
I was quiet as I gathered my thoughts, Edward didn’t push me he just held me and left me talk at my own therapeutic pace.
“Anyway James thought if I was in college that Charlie would release at least a portion of the money. It was always part of the tension between us.”
I thought back to the many times I paid for Charlie’s decision. The fightings, the hittings, and the nights spent in the box. I’m glad that my dad never relented though; he was right in what he did. I sighed coming back to the present.
“So, like I said I applied for admissions and the scholarship.”
“Which you got.” Edwards’s voice had a sense of pride in it.
“Yes, I did. The letter came in early December, but I didn’t tell James about it.” I sighed, “I should have told him, but I was scared and I just wanted to be away from him. Besides, he had Vicky…”
“He was fucking around?”
“Yes, they went together in high school, and apparently never stopped, they are still together…Anyway, right after the New Year I moved out. I went to live at Sue’s house on the reservation. It took him three days to realize I was gone, and he really didn’t even care until March. Forks is a small town, and even though I only told Charlie and few close family members, James found out that I was going to Dartmouth.”
“But you had already been gone for months, what did he care?”
I could feel the tears fill my eyes, “I don’t know Edward, it’s not like he loved me, or enjoyed my company, or wanted to have babies with me.” The tears were slowly falling down my cheeks, as Edward rubbed his hand slowly down my bare arm.
“He wanted the money?”
I nodded.
“Why did you go to the reservation, why didn’t you go to live with your dad?”
“Because James was banded from the rez, he wasn’t allowed there. It was safer, besides Sue and Seth were already living with Charlie and her house was just sitting there empty. But when he heard that I was leaving and going to my expensive dream college, he freaked. He came to the reservation, started yelling about the spoiled little rich girl getting her own way…it didn’t matter that I worked my ass off, or that I was going for free. I tried to tell him…”
I had to stop for a minute and compose myself and my thoughts. The tears were still coming, but my breathing was under control, so I continued.
“He was so mad, he grabbed me by the neck pinning me against the wall, I couldn’t breathe. That was his favorite, not letting me breath. He would force me into the broom closet… in the box… where I… couldn’t breathe…or hold my throat so tightly, because you can’t yell …when you can’t breathe.”
“Shhhh…It’s ok Bella, shhh…I’m here…” I realized through all my tears that my body was shaking.
“Shhh…is that why you fear dark enclosed places? Because you can’t breathe?”
I nodded sniffling, “Yes.”
Edward just held me until I was ready to continue. I let his words and the sanctuary of his embrace give me strength. After a few minutes I was able to continue.
“Anyway after a few slaps and more choking, I slumped to the floor. I finally got enough air and I screamed, which just made him even madder. He grabbed me by the neck and threw me across the kitchen. The pantry door was open and my back hit the edge, I felt an electric shock go down my arm, and that’s all I remember…Sam said…”
“Sam? Who is Sam?”
“Sam Uley…he is like the police captain on the reservation, he’s a few years older than me, but we would all hang around together. I guess he went outside to sneak a smoke,” I smiled at the thought of cigarettes saving my life. “When he was walking, he spotted James’s truck and was coming over to check on me when he heard me scream. By the time he came in the house James was standing over me yelling obscenities and kicking my back.”
“Did they take you to the hospital?” The monotone of his voice told me he was trying to control himself.
“Yes, when I woke up they told me that three of my vertebrae had been damaged and the disc herniated creating severe nerve damage. I had no use of my right arm and I was in constant pain, so I was drugged heavily. The surgeon told me that I had a fifty percent chance of the surgery not working and a fifty percent chance of permanent paralysis.”
“Did they take the animal to jail?”
“He was charged with trespassing; I spent a week in the hospital… that time. I had to withdrawal from two classes and take them during the summer, so I had all my credits to transfer. But I did it.”
Edward’s lips ghosted over my scar once more as his arms tighten around me. “Are you still afraid of him Bella?”
I thought about his question, I wished I could say no and mean it, but that would be a lie. “I know he is out there, he knows where I am, and he is so angry that he didn’t get what he wanted…yes…I’m terrified.”
“I’m so fucking sorry Bella, I’m so sorry you had to go through that. I’m sorry you’re still afraid, that he still has that control over you and I’m sorry you have to live the rest of your life with the repercussions of what he did to you.”
Edward never released the hold he had on me; he just quietly rocked us, placing soft sweet kisses on my head and cheek. “Shhh…I got you baby…your safe with me…I promise”
I sniffled sucking in jagged breaths of air. “Shhh…sleep Bella.” I let his words and gentle rocking lull me into a fitful sleep. That night I dreamt of dark places with hands grabbing me, pinching and scratching at my skin. I didn’t know who they were, but every time I cried out they would laugh at me and my begging just brought taunts.
Something jarred me awake; the first thing I realized was that it was still dark outside, and the next thing I noticed was that I was alone. A feeling of dread, fear, and anxiety washed over me to the point of being nauseous. I really hated feeling this way, I rolled over with a groan. There was a piece of paper lying on the bed, but it was too dark in the room to see what it was. Wincing from the brightness of the light I read:
My Bella
You seemed to have calmed down
around 4, I left to finish recording
the grades. I’m hoping to be back
before you wake up. If I don’t
get back in time, call me.
- Edward
Reaching for my phone I sent Edward a text.
I’m awake, but you don’t need to come back. I’m ok. – B
By the time I walked into the bathroom, my phone was beeping. My reflection in the mirror scared me. The dark circles under blood shot eyes against my pale skin, made me look ghost like. My bathtub was calling me and I decided to answer. While the water was filling I went to check my phone.
I was hoping you would get some sleep. Go back to bed, I’ll be there in an hour – E
I immediately replied.
I can’t sleep, I’m going to take a bath and relax. Really I’m ok, you don’t need to come back I’ll be in the tub for a long time – B
My phone beeped again.
Don’t fall asleep in there and don’t get to pruney. I like you soft, not wrinkly - E
I giggled at his little smiley face.
Yes Master – B
I thought he was done, so I was very surprised when my phone buzzed.
I really like when you call me that Isabella. Now be a good girl, take a bath and let me finish my work. And please try to get at least one more hour of sleep – E
The jets and the hot water did wonders for my mood. An hour later I was lying on my bed, relaxed and snuggling under my comforter, succumbing to sleep.
“Bells, are you still sleeping?”
My eyes opened to see Leah standing over my bed.
“More like just got to sleep,” I said with a groan.
“Well it’s after eight; I’m going to make some decaf tea. Sue sent some raisin bread and muffins for you.”
There are times when I am glad I live in Seattle, this was one of those days. I was just not in the mood for bright cheery sunshine. The aroma of coffee and Sue’s homemade bread made me feel better, but in all honesty if I didn’t have that appointment with Mr. Tanner about the housing for Peggy, I would have crawled back in bed and stayed there all day.
“What’s up girl? How was your weekend?” Leah asked with slightly more enthusiasm then I would have liked at that particular moment.
“It was great, how about yours?” I answered sitting across from her with my coffee.
Leah’s eyed me with a look that said don’t give me none of that shit. “Bella I went to Forks, I saw the same people, ate the same foods and talked about the same things. While you spent the weekend with Mr Sex-on-a-Stick. If you’re going to sit there and try to tell me that your weekend wasn’t any more exciting than mine was, I’m going to be sorely disappointed.”
I smirked at her while she coaxed, “Come on girl tell me, give me some humpty –hump stories.”
“I’m not going to tell you any sex stories,” I replied, rolling my eyes.
“Oh come on, I been waiting for years to hear some good sex stories from you. Now you have some and you won’t share. I don’t think that’s very open-minded of you.” Leah’s eyes were imploring “Come on, please Bella, give me something…anything. I’ll tell you about my sex life.”
“Forget it, I don’t want to hear it.”
Leah got a wicked grin on her face “You better start talking girl, or…last night Jake was all over me, his dick…”
My hands went up in surrender as soon as the dick word came out. “Ahh…stop what do you want to know?”
She was giggling making me giggle along with her, “Was it good? Did you at least have an orgasm? Did he tie you up and making you fucking cum until you almost passed out?”
“Well let’s see. Yes. Yes and the last one Hell Yes!”
My mood was lightened by the estrogen rush, “Edward collared me Friday night.”
My admission must have shocked her, because Leah for once was completely speechless. After a few drinks of her tea Leah was back, “What exactly does that mean, are you like going steady or something?”
I laughed shaking my head, “What is this High School? No it means that he accepted me, as his submissive. That he vows to take care of me, to put my needs ahead of his, that my life is his life.” As I said the words I couldn’t help but stroke the silver band around my neck.
Leah came over to have a closer look, “Bell’s that almost sounds like a marriage.” Her fingers ran along the length. “There is no closure, how do you take it off?”
“I don’t, only Edward can take it off. He has a special key that will open it.”
“Damn Bells, this is serious.”
I was shocked, what did she think I was joking around? “Yes it’s serious.”
“Don’t be upset Bells, I didn’t mean anything. I just didn’t realize that…”
“That what? That I was serious, or that Edward was serious. Or is it that you thought maybe it was all a game to me and I was just playing around, get my kink on and then be done?”
Leah sighed sitting back down. “I just didn’t realize that you would move so fast. How much do you know about Edward? You are placing an awful lot of trust in someone you barely know.”
I thought about what she said. I was placing a lot of trust in Edward, but something inside me told me I could.
“I know enough about him. I also know that he has a way about him that…I just feel so safe when I am with him. He holds me, calms me, cares for me in a way that no one ever has. Last night I told him about what James did to my back. He rocked me and held me until four in the morning when I finally went to sleep.”
Leah smiled, “You care about him,” it wasn’t a question, and all I could do was nod in agreement. She smirked “Well at least he has good taste in jewelry. If you have to wear it all the time, that’s a plus.”
“I have to get dressed, you staying?”
Leah made another cup of tea and followed me into the bedroom. Seth came in a few minutes later and that reminded me to look outside for his collar. Leah filled me in on all the happenings in the big town of Forks. Apparently Charlie did something to our old room, but she refused to tell me what. I figured I would wheedle it out of Jake. She agreed to change our yoga time to the morning class but couldn’t come shopping, because she had a shoot. I was just finishing up my makeup when the doorbell rang.
“Uh…Bells? Someone’s here,” as I came around the corner, all I could see was the bottom half of what I assumed was a man. His whole face was obscured by an immense bouquet of yellow roses that left me gasping.
“Ms Swan?”
“Yes,” I said still overwhelmed.
“Delivery for you,” as I took the bouquet, he turned to leave, “Have a good day ma’am.”
“Wait, let me tip you.”
“It’s already been taken care of ma’am.”
It must have been a damn good tip, because he was smiling to beat the band.
“Thank you!” I called out as the delivery guy walked down the steps. Leah shut the door while I set my vase on the coffee table, taking the attached card off to read.
Isabella
Just a little something to brighten your day,
as you bring brightness to mine.
- Edward
I was practically giddy as I handed the card to Leah. “Well I’ll say this for him, he sure does have finesse.”
“You have no idea,” I giggled.
I stood in front of Edward’s door waiting for him to answer. The eleven o’clock appointment with Mr. Tanner gave me an extra hour. The door opened to a confused Edward, “Isabella?”
I couldn’t help myself, he was so handsome standing there and I was so giddy that I threw my arms around his neck and practically jumped in his arms, kissing his surprised lips.
It only took him a second to respond as he held me closer to him. When he pulled away he had a smirk on his face, “What was that for?”
“Thank you for the roses, they are beautiful,” I kissed him again.
“Is that all it takes to get you to jump me?”
“Oh, I don’t need a reason to jump you,” I giggled.
I was going to kiss him again, but a loud throat clearing from our left caught my attention. Edward patted my bottom, setting me down. When I looked over his shoulder I saw four sets of curious eyes watching me, and a woman on her knees looking at the floor. Oh my god, I can’t believe I just threw myself at him in front of his company, of course my face heated up with my embarrassment causing Edward to chuckle. “Come on, I’ll introduce you,” he said as his arm wrapped around my waist guiding me into the room.
Aro was already standing as we approached, “Isabella, so lovely to see you my dear,” he took my hand kissing the back of it.
“Good morning Sir.” The woman on her knees had not moved, I don’t even know if she blinked because I couldn’t see her eyes. Edward indicated toward the others as they stood. “You already met Felix, this is Caius and Irena. May I introduce Ms. Isabella Swan?”
Each of them said hello, I looked to Edward who nodded in approval, so I said hello back. Caius, a man who appeared to be in his late forties was a few inches shorter then Edward with shoulder length blond hair and piercing blue eyes that automatically made me think of James, was the first to speak.
“So this is the infamous Isabella?” I could feel my face flush once again at the word infamous, but I remained quiet. “So to what do we owe the pleasure of your visit, Isabella?” Irena, a woman about my age and height with sandy brown hair hazel eyes asked.
Edward answered for me, “Isabella stopped by to thank me…”
“The girl can’t speak?” I looked to Caius, his accusatory voice startling me, he snorted, “she doesn’t know her place either, so perhaps she needs a reminder Edward.”
I could feel the tears form in my eyes, and I lowered them out of reflex trying to blink the tears away so as not to embarrass myself further, the women kneeling on the floor flinched while Edward moved in front of me, “I don’t believe it’s your place to tell me what to do with Isabella. If I wanted your opinion I would ask for it.”
Caius huffed, but sat back down. I could feel him leering at me and I was becoming uncomfortable. Edward placed one hand on my back, the other under my chin silently telling me to look up. Irena stepped forward checking me out like I was a piece of fruit. “Well, you are a pretty little thing no wonder Edward is so taken with you. Perhaps we can play together.”
I was starting to feel sick to my stomach, the happy feeling I had when I arrived was all but gone.
“That won’t be happening Irena,” Edwards voice was gruff.
“But Edward, we’ve played together before,” her voice was sultry.
Yeah, I was definitely going to be sick; I just wanted to get the hell out of here. Edward must have sensed my discomfort because he ran his hand down my back; the strength of his touch calmed me and I trusted in the fact that nothing would happen with him here.
Felix spoke up, “Isabella, it is nice to see you again.” He leaned forward, trying to be accommodating, “don’t let them get to you, they think they can say whatever they want.”
I tried to smile but Caius butt in, “I can say whatever I want, free country and all that.”
“Yes, but in someone else’s house, and with someone else’s submissive you should have more respect,” Aro said with authority.
“Master please?” the woman on the floor practically begged.
“Of course my dear,” Aro held his hand out to help her up. “Isabella, I don’t believe you’ve personally met my Jane.”
The woman before me was very petite. She was at least four inches shorter than me with long jet black hair. She was wearing a sleeveless white eyelet summer dress with simple brown wedged heels. I smiled at her and thought she was going to offer me a hand shake; instead she reached out pulling me into a hug.
“Master’s slave is so glad to finally meet you.”
“It’s nice to finally meet you too.” I admitted honestly hugging her back. It felt like I was meeting a pen pal, someone who you knew very well, but had only had indirect contact with.
“You really are very pretty, and if you have any questions or concerns you can ask this one, she would be most happy to help. Master said his slave should invite you to lunch, if you would like to?”
“Thank you,” I smiled warmly at Jane, “That would be wonderful.”
“Fine, then this slave shall call you to make arrangements.”
I was going to answer her but Caius broke in, “Good maybe some of Jane’s fine training and good manners will rub off on you.”
I couldn’t decide if I was angry or hurt, either way the tears threatened my eyes once again.
“Caius I will not tell you again to mind yourself. Perhaps someone should teach you manners.”
I really wanted to get away from this asshole and I pitied any submissive who found themselves with him. I needed to calm down. Between spilling my guts last night, the lack of sleep, and now dealing with obvious disapproval, I was exhausted.
I figured I would redeem myself just a little; I turned to look at Edward. “Master your girl left something in her room, may she go get it?”
Edward eyed me but nodded, “Yes, go.”
“Thank you.”
As I turned towards the steps it wasn’t Caius this time, it was Irena that spoke in a derogatory fashion, “You have to teach her better manners Edward, she didn’t even leave the room properly.”
I didn’t hear what Edward said, or if he said anything at all. I was too busy getting up the stairs as fast as I could, closing the door to my room, and collapsing on my bed in a fit of tears.
“You’ve got to be kidding?”
My father sat there looking at mom with a sly grin on his face.
“What song is it mom?” Our mother handed Alice the paper, once she read it a loud sigh escaped her while Bella and Rose glanced at the song that they would have to perform.
Mom still had not taken her eyes off dad.
“You going to renege on the terms of the game?” Look out, dad was getting cocky.
“Not at all,” Mom smirked, “come on girls.”
The girls started to follow mom into the house when dad yelled, “Oh, and it better be good too.”
Mom stopped abruptly, glanced over her shoulder with a sly smile, “It’s always good, dear.”
Dad and grams chuckled, while I made a face, and Emmett spoke up, “Please stop that.” Which made Jasper laugh.
Half an hour later the unmistakable sound of a bass being plucked came over the outside speakers. The girls walked slowly towards the open space between us and the hearth. Their fingers snapped to the beat while they walked carrying wooden folding chairs in their other hand.
They must have raided dad’s closet, because they were all dressed wearing dinner jackets and high heels. Brimmed hats adorned their heads with all their hair tucked up inside. As they strutted snapping their fingers, their chins were down so the brim of the hats covered their eyes.
Mom stayed in the front while the other three formed a line to her rear, each of them opening their chairs. The girls sat on the edge of the seats with their legs bent and their bodies facing towards the left. The girls continued snapping while mom started singing.
Never know how much I love you
Never know how much I care
When you put your arms around me
I get a fever that's so hard to bear
You give me fever
All four of them started singing, and as they did the girls that were seated kept their heads down and straddled the edge of their chairs showing off what I assumed to be their bathing suit bottoms.
Fever when you kiss me
Their bottoms slid to the back of the chairs
Fever when you hold me tight
They wrapped their arms around themselves
Fever ... in the mornin'
Swaying their upper bodies rubbing their hands down their sides and uncrossing them to rest on the chair
Fever all through the night
Sliding their butts forward to the edge of the chair opening and closing their thighs twice all the while keeping their heads down
Holy Fuck!
While mom sang the next verse the girls stood with their head still down snapping and walking to the back of their chairs
Sun lights up the day time
Moon lights up the night
I light up when you call my name
'cause I know you're gonna treat me right
You give me fever
They all sang again, this time gripping the chair corners and swiveling their hips to a squat and then back up again
Fever when you kiss me
Their right legs came over the top of the chair resting their foot on the seat
Fever when you hold me tight
They wrapped their arms around themselves running their fingers down their sides
Fever ... in the mornin'
Thrusting their hips forward into the corner of the chair
Fever all through the night
Stuck their butts out; hitting their asses with an audible slap, making my dick twitch. Holy Fucking God! Wow!
Everybody's got the fever
That is somethin' you all know
Fever isn't such a new thing
Fever started long time ago
You give me fever
While mom sang the girls picked up their chairs turning them backward and straddling them. I don’t know what my mother was doing; I couldn’t take my eyes off of Bella. Emmet elbowed me in the side, and when I looked him he had the same expression as Dad and Jasper. The testosterone level was rising fast.
“Damn our women are hot!” I couldn’t answer I was too mesmerized. All I could think about was the way her body was moving and how fucking hard my dick was.
As they sang the chorus, their bottoms slid back and forth on the chair
Fever when you kiss me
Fever when you hold me tight
Their left hand came up to remove the hat, letting their hair fall free
Fever ... in the mornin'
Fever all through the night
Moving their shoulders to the beat of the music while they starting snapping again
Mom sang some more, while the girls stood up circling their chairs snapping their right hand,
Now you've listened to my story
Here's the point that I have made
Cats were born to give chicks fever
Be it Fahrenheit or centigrade
When they got back to where they started from they leaned over the chair placing the hats on the seat.
Flinging their heads back when they stood up so we could see their faces, Bella wasn’t as red as I thought she would be. She looked like she was enjoying it. They all sang the next lines, rotating their hips to the beat.
We give you fever when we kiss you
Fever if you live and learn
Fever till you sizzle
Each one took a turn singing the line, turning to the left, holding the corner of the chair with their left hand while using their right to pick up their hat on the seat.
First mom
What a lovely way to burn
Then Alice
What a lovely way to burn
Then Rose
What a lovely way to burn
Then Bella
What a lovely way to burn
Ah
They moaned the last word in unison, thrusting out their right hip and placing the hat back on their head.
BPOV
Oh my word, I can’t believe I had just done that. When we lost the game and Esme showed us what song we had to sing, I didn’t think it would be so bad. Then when we went inside I was told we not only had to sing, but more or less had to perform, I was mortified, because I really can’t dance.
Esme quickly took us over the moves we would be doing, and we did a run through. It was simple enough, and if I got stuck, they told me to ‘just follow Esme.’ I could do that. Then Esme left returning with dinner jackets and hats. Alice said something about wearing our swim suits underneath.
“Umm…I don’t know if I can do this,” I was starting to freak out.
“Sure you can,” Alice assured me.
“Alice get Bella a lemon drop,” Esme said putting her arm around me, “its simple dear, and most of the time you will have the hat on.” Alice handed me the shot of vodka with the sliced lemon. After I finished the shot, Esme wanted to go through it one more time wearing our outfits.
Alice poured me another shot, doing one herself, “Why did they pick this song?” I asked her.
Esme was helping tuck Roses hair under the hat when she answered me, “When I was in college, I was in the stage performers; this is one of the songs we did. Carlisle was in the audience one night -with another girl I might add- and at the after party, he approached me, telling me how much he liked my performance and we started talking, the rest is history.”
“What happened to the other girl?”
She shrugged, “She went home alone.”
We all laughed, and after the third shot, I was ready.
Walking outside, Esme looked at me, “You’ll be great.”
I gave her a relaxed smile, I don’t know if it was the feeling of acceptance or the three shots, but I wasn’t tense at all. My body felt the beat of the music, I got a little confused once or twice, but I just followed Esmes cue and picked it right back up. When it was my turn to sing the last line, I picked up the hat, we all moaned “Ah..” placing the hat on our head and thrusting out our right hip.
Edward’s gram started clapping, but the men just sat there with their mouths open staring at us, it was kind of unnerving. Finally Carlisle got up and took Esme in his arms wrapping her in a hug.
“Do I still got it?” she giggled.
“You still got it, and I want it,” he murmered.
I blushed at the exchange of affection between Edward’s parents. The other guys finally got off their chairs; Edward was still starry eyed as he hugged me.
“Are you alright?” I asked him.
He bent down to whisper in my ear, “damn Bella... Holy shit…”
I giggled because that seemed to be the only words he was capable of forming at the minute.
When we came back down from changing, they had moved the seating closer to the fire. Emmett had already made copies from the video Edward’s grams had shot of our performance. When I sat down next to Edward, he handed me a glass of wine.
“Thank you.”
“Your welcome,” he kissed my cheek. Edward put his arm across my shoulders and I snuggled into his side. This is where I wanted to be ever since we arrived this morning, sitting by the fire wrapped in Edward’s embrace.
We sat around not talking about anything in particular. Alice wanted to go to the beach for a mini vacation, and we sat there discussing which beach to go too. She decided she would investigate some options and get back to us. My body nuzzled closer to Edward and I stifled a yawn.
“Are you getting tired babe?” He quietly asked.
“Just a little, I’m really relaxed,”I nodded.
He checked his watch “We should get going, so we can make the 11:10 ferry, besides I would hate for you to fall asleep and start telling secretes.” He chuckled while I smirked at him.
The ferry was just arriving when we got to the dock, so we had a few minutes to wait before we could board. Edward’s hand reached over to take a hold of mine.
“Thank you for coming with me today” His eyes held nothing but sincerity.
“You’re welcome; I had a really nice time. Your grams is great, does she live here?”
“Yes, on the other side of the Island, she has a view of Victoria”
“We should go there”
“To grams?” I laughed
“No…well we could visit her, but I was thinking of Victoria. I haven’t been there in a long time.” Edward leaned over to kiss me softly, and then he stared into my eyes.
“We could do that. Can you take any time away from your work at the center?”
I thought about it for a minute, “Sure or we could do a long weekend trip.”
Edward sat back in his seat, put the car in gear and boarded the ferry. Due to the late hour there was only a hand full of vehicles and maybe a dozen walking passengers. Edward was quiet while we waited for the ferry to move. Something was bothering him, but I didn’t know what. It was so quiet that the knock on the window startled me.
Edward turned the key, rolling down the window to talk to his brother. “Are you staying in the car?”
Edward nodded, “Yes, Isabella’s tired.”
Shit he called me Isabella.
“Do you have your journal?” When he spoke his voice had that edge to it that told me exactly what mood he was in.
“Yes sir.”
He didn’t say anything; he just held his hand out waiting for me to fill it. I wasted no time retrieving it from my purse placing it in his hand. Edward reached over opening the glove compartment, fishing around until he pulled out a pen, and started writing. It didn’t take him long, when he closed the journal I thought he was going to give it back to me, but he just held it.
“Isabella, what are your concerns about next weekend?”
I turned to look at him, how many times do I have to tell him? “I told you…” my voice was slightly irritated. Edwards head shot in my direction, his face was taunt, his eyes were dark and not from lust.
“Isabella, lower your eyes right now, and I suggest you get your emotions under control.” His voice wasn’t angry, but he wasn’t fooling around either.
I immediately dropped my eyes to my lap, sitting very straight in my seat.
“Now I have asked you repeatedly today to tell me your concerns, I have heard everything except the real reason. I’m not in the habit of pulling information out of someone. When I ask for an answer, I want a clear, concise, and honest answer-immediately.” He stopped talking for a few seconds, I remained quiet. “Now, tell me.”
My head began to turn in his direction.
“Keep your eyes down.”
I dropped my eyes back to my lap. “Sir, I..this girl has told you, that she was wondering if we are not home when we would have our usual?”
“That can’t be, because you just said that you would go to Victoria on the weekend, and if I’m not mistaken the weekend is our usual. So what is the difference?”
I thought about it. I knew what the difference was; but how could I say it without sounding like I was selfish, or so engrossed with him that I didn’t want to share his attentions? Because that wasn’t the reason. Well, if I was being honest with myself that was part of it, but only a small part.
“Isabella,” he was growing impatient.
I swallowed and just started talking, “Sir, the difference is that other people will be there.” Before I could sound like some neurotic bitch, I went on to explain, “Sir, if…when we are at home, I…your girl feels free to be what her Master expects her to be. When other people are there, your girl doesn’t know if she would be comfortable around them.”
“Look at me.”
My whole body shifted in his direction and when our eyes met, I thought there was understanding in them.
“I’m assuming by comfortable you don’t mean in a basic relaxed way; because you didn’t look anxious today when you attacked Emmett, or when you doing that song. So you mean comfortable in your sub mode.” I nodded and was going to talk, but he continued, “The way around that Isabella is by using a modified approach.”
He told me this earlier, before going to his parents house and I understood that.
“Besides Isabella, even if we went away there would always be other people around.”
“Yes sir. I…your girl understands that; but we would have a private area where we could be alone. Master, your girl is so new to this lifestyle and she feels insecure at times when it comes to her submission. She just feels like she needs as much…practice as possible. If there are people around, even…friends for the whole weekend, your girl feels like she would be missing time that she needs to perfect her service to you.”
“I understand what you are saying, but submission is more of a state of mind. With a modified approach, it allows you to stay in sub mode while not making those around you uncomfortable. Em and Rose wouldn’t care, whereas Alice and Jasper on the other hand would be offended. As her statement about our ‘kinky sex life’ could attest to.” The kinky sex comment made me wince, because that was embarrassing.
“It also would be good practice for you. But I understand what you are saying about the whole weekend, and not having the alone time where we can be in full mode. So I propose a compromise. Friday would be our…usual, and we would leave after breakfast on Saturday. Then instead of ending at six on Sunday we could continue the rest of the night ending our …usual Monday morning, if you would like to?”
I sat in the car looking into Edward’s eyes; his face was illuminated from the lights over the parking deck.
“So on Saturday would be in modified sub mode?”
“Yes, and we would still have the alone time that we both need Isabella.”
I was confused. He knew what he was doing, I was the beginner.
“Don’t doubt for a minute that I don’t need to spend alone time with you either. I might have more experience in this lifestyle, but I don’t have very much experience with Isabella. I need time, and hands on familiarity in order to perfect my skills in that area.” Edward smiled slyly, making me blush at his suggestiveness.
“Alright, that sounds like a good idea. I’ll…,” he raised his eyes, making me sigh; “your girl will just stay over until Monday morning.”
“Good. With that settled, tell me why it took all day long and me losing my temper to get you to answer my question?”
“There was always someone interrupting and I…this girl,” I sighed, wondering if I was ever going to get it straight, “she wasn’t sure how to state her reasons without sounding like she was a selfish, spoiled brat who wants to get her own way.”
“Come here,” he pulled me closer to him, tucking me under his arm. “You should never hesitate to tell me how you feel, or what you need. If you come off sounding selfish or spoiled, I will definitely tell you. It is more important that you respond to my questions, expeditiously. There is a writing assignment in your journal, I want it done by Wednesday.”
“Yes Sir.” Three writing assignments in three days, damn, I wonder if that is a record, well at least I’m consistent. Emmett tapped on the window while Rose waved to me as they returned to the bike. Ten minutes later we were driving towards home. It was almost midnight when Edward pulled into my driveway. He held his hand out for me to get out of the car.
Kissing Edward was turning out to be one of my favorite pastimes, nestled in his arms with the warmth radiating off his body. Mixing with the scent of his skin, along with the zing I felt whenever I touched him; it was both gratifying and lulling at the same time. He pulled back running his hand down the edge of my jaw. “Ah, my Bella, it’s late you should go inside.”
“Are you coming in?”
He gave me that crooked smile, “Do you want me to come in?”
I nodded. Yes, I was hoping he would sleep over, I felt safe and I didn’t hear every little creak when he was with me.
“I’ll come in for a little while, but then I have to go.”
Ok, so much for good sleeping, he must have seen the displeasure on my face because he sighed before continuing, “I’ll tell you what, how about I stay until you are asleep? Then you won’t even miss me.”
“That’s ok Edward, I’m a big girl, you don’t have to stay if you don’t want to,” I said putting on my bravest face.
“I didn’t say I didn’t want to, I said I can’t. There is a big difference. I have to finish getting the grades reported; I have them done, just not all reported yet. So, that is my bad.”
Seth was glad to see us, he had been alone all day, and was desperately in need of attention and food. After filling his bowls, I bent down to pet his head; and I noticed his collar was missing. Looking around the room, I didn’t see anything; I stood and started looking around the house. Where could it be, it had a safety latch on it, so if it got caught on anything, it would come apart rather than strangle him. But I didn’t see it anywhere.
I was just ready to go look outside when Edward came out of the bathroom. “Where are you going?” I told him about the collar and I thought maybe it would be outside. “How does his door work, does he need it to get in and out?”
“No, it works with the implanted chip. The collar is for the invisible fence. He knows the boundaries, but I keep it on him just in case and the collar has his license and rabies information on it. It has to be here, he had it on this morning when I brought him home on the leash.”
We walked around the yard, but it was dark and even with the security light, we couldn’t find it.
“It must be here somewhere; I’ll find it in the morning.” When we went back into the house, I located the second collar for the invisible fence and placed that on Seth, yawning.
“Come on let’s get you to bed, it’s been a long day.
Fifteen minutes later, I was being spooned in my bed. Edwards’s lips traveled down my neck and over my shoulder, making me hum in contentment.
“Thank you for this weekend Isabella.” I smiled at his words of praise.
“You’re welcome, but I should be thanking you” he chuckled in my ear, moving the hair off my neck; he kissed my scar, making me stiffen.
“Tell me about this Bella,” his nose ran over the six inch deformity.
“What do you want to know?” My voice sounded distant.
“Why? Why did he do it?”
I closed my eyes; I hated thinking about that night. I still didn’t understand why Edward wanted to know this, but he persisted in hearing the worst. Actually that wasn’t the worst and I don’t know what he would think of me; if he ever heard about the story of the night James came here. I shuddered at the memory. Edward responded to my reaction by holding me tighter against his body.
“I always wanted to go to Dartmouth; it was like my unattainable dream. When we talked about getting married James was all for college, not Dartmouth of course, but it was ok with me that I would have to settle. But after our marriage James hated the fact that I was in school, he said it took too much time away from him, and that I thought I was better and smarter than him, because all he was ever going to do was work in his parents store. But I never thought like that, I tried to tell him that I was going to school to better both our lives, but he didn’t see it like that.”
“Why would he agree to begin with?”
“Charlie had the insurance money put away for me in a trust…”
“Insurance money?”
“Yes from my mom and Phil, life insurance. I was the sole beneficiary; Charlie put all the money into a trust until I was twenty-five. I could use it to go to college, or once I was married to buy a house but only at his discretion. When I married, Charlie said I was too young, and he didn’t trust James at all, so he wouldn’t release any of it. That was ok with me; it didn’t matter and I figured we would get by like any other young couple, but it wasn’t ok with James.”
I was quiet as I gathered my thoughts, Edward didn’t push me he just held me and left me talk at my own therapeutic pace.
“Anyway James thought if I was in college that Charlie would release at least a portion of the money. It was always part of the tension between us.”
I thought back to the many times I paid for Charlie’s decision. The fightings, the hittings, and the nights spent in the box. I’m glad that my dad never relented though; he was right in what he did. I sighed coming back to the present.
“So, like I said I applied for admissions and the scholarship.”
“Which you got.” Edwards’s voice had a sense of pride in it.
“Yes, I did. The letter came in early December, but I didn’t tell James about it.” I sighed, “I should have told him, but I was scared and I just wanted to be away from him. Besides, he had Vicky…”
“He was fucking around?”
“Yes, they went together in high school, and apparently never stopped, they are still together…Anyway, right after the New Year I moved out. I went to live at Sue’s house on the reservation. It took him three days to realize I was gone, and he really didn’t even care until March. Forks is a small town, and even though I only told Charlie and few close family members, James found out that I was going to Dartmouth.”
“But you had already been gone for months, what did he care?”
I could feel the tears fill my eyes, “I don’t know Edward, it’s not like he loved me, or enjoyed my company, or wanted to have babies with me.” The tears were slowly falling down my cheeks, as Edward rubbed his hand slowly down my bare arm.
“He wanted the money?”
I nodded.
“Why did you go to the reservation, why didn’t you go to live with your dad?”
“Because James was banded from the rez, he wasn’t allowed there. It was safer, besides Sue and Seth were already living with Charlie and her house was just sitting there empty. But when he heard that I was leaving and going to my expensive dream college, he freaked. He came to the reservation, started yelling about the spoiled little rich girl getting her own way…it didn’t matter that I worked my ass off, or that I was going for free. I tried to tell him…”
I had to stop for a minute and compose myself and my thoughts. The tears were still coming, but my breathing was under control, so I continued.
“He was so mad, he grabbed me by the neck pinning me against the wall, I couldn’t breathe. That was his favorite, not letting me breath. He would force me into the broom closet… in the box… where I… couldn’t breathe…or hold my throat so tightly, because you can’t yell …when you can’t breathe.”
“Shhhh…It’s ok Bella, shhh…I’m here…” I realized through all my tears that my body was shaking.
“Shhh…is that why you fear dark enclosed places? Because you can’t breathe?”
I nodded sniffling, “Yes.”
Edward just held me until I was ready to continue. I let his words and the sanctuary of his embrace give me strength. After a few minutes I was able to continue.
“Anyway after a few slaps and more choking, I slumped to the floor. I finally got enough air and I screamed, which just made him even madder. He grabbed me by the neck and threw me across the kitchen. The pantry door was open and my back hit the edge, I felt an electric shock go down my arm, and that’s all I remember…Sam said…”
“Sam? Who is Sam?”
“Sam Uley…he is like the police captain on the reservation, he’s a few years older than me, but we would all hang around together. I guess he went outside to sneak a smoke,” I smiled at the thought of cigarettes saving my life. “When he was walking, he spotted James’s truck and was coming over to check on me when he heard me scream. By the time he came in the house James was standing over me yelling obscenities and kicking my back.”
“Did they take you to the hospital?” The monotone of his voice told me he was trying to control himself.
“Yes, when I woke up they told me that three of my vertebrae had been damaged and the disc herniated creating severe nerve damage. I had no use of my right arm and I was in constant pain, so I was drugged heavily. The surgeon told me that I had a fifty percent chance of the surgery not working and a fifty percent chance of permanent paralysis.”
“Did they take the animal to jail?”
“He was charged with trespassing; I spent a week in the hospital… that time. I had to withdrawal from two classes and take them during the summer, so I had all my credits to transfer. But I did it.”
Edward’s lips ghosted over my scar once more as his arms tighten around me. “Are you still afraid of him Bella?”
I thought about his question, I wished I could say no and mean it, but that would be a lie. “I know he is out there, he knows where I am, and he is so angry that he didn’t get what he wanted…yes…I’m terrified.”
“I’m so fucking sorry Bella, I’m so sorry you had to go through that. I’m sorry you’re still afraid, that he still has that control over you and I’m sorry you have to live the rest of your life with the repercussions of what he did to you.”
Edward never released the hold he had on me; he just quietly rocked us, placing soft sweet kisses on my head and cheek. “Shhh…I got you baby…your safe with me…I promise”
I sniffled sucking in jagged breaths of air. “Shhh…sleep Bella.” I let his words and gentle rocking lull me into a fitful sleep. That night I dreamt of dark places with hands grabbing me, pinching and scratching at my skin. I didn’t know who they were, but every time I cried out they would laugh at me and my begging just brought taunts.
Something jarred me awake; the first thing I realized was that it was still dark outside, and the next thing I noticed was that I was alone. A feeling of dread, fear, and anxiety washed over me to the point of being nauseous. I really hated feeling this way, I rolled over with a groan. There was a piece of paper lying on the bed, but it was too dark in the room to see what it was. Wincing from the brightness of the light I read:
My Bella
You seemed to have calmed down
around 4, I left to finish recording
the grades. I’m hoping to be back
before you wake up. If I don’t
get back in time, call me.
- Edward
Reaching for my phone I sent Edward a text.
I’m awake, but you don’t need to come back. I’m ok. – B
By the time I walked into the bathroom, my phone was beeping. My reflection in the mirror scared me. The dark circles under blood shot eyes against my pale skin, made me look ghost like. My bathtub was calling me and I decided to answer. While the water was filling I went to check my phone.
I was hoping you would get some sleep. Go back to bed, I’ll be there in an hour – E
I immediately replied.
I can’t sleep, I’m going to take a bath and relax. Really I’m ok, you don’t need to come back I’ll be in the tub for a long time – B
My phone beeped again.
Don’t fall asleep in there and don’t get to pruney. I like you soft, not wrinkly - E
I giggled at his little smiley face.
Yes Master – B
I thought he was done, so I was very surprised when my phone buzzed.
I really like when you call me that Isabella. Now be a good girl, take a bath and let me finish my work. And please try to get at least one more hour of sleep – E
The jets and the hot water did wonders for my mood. An hour later I was lying on my bed, relaxed and snuggling under my comforter, succumbing to sleep.
“Bells, are you still sleeping?”
My eyes opened to see Leah standing over my bed.
“More like just got to sleep,” I said with a groan.
“Well it’s after eight; I’m going to make some decaf tea. Sue sent some raisin bread and muffins for you.”
There are times when I am glad I live in Seattle, this was one of those days. I was just not in the mood for bright cheery sunshine. The aroma of coffee and Sue’s homemade bread made me feel better, but in all honesty if I didn’t have that appointment with Mr. Tanner about the housing for Peggy, I would have crawled back in bed and stayed there all day.
“What’s up girl? How was your weekend?” Leah asked with slightly more enthusiasm then I would have liked at that particular moment.
“It was great, how about yours?” I answered sitting across from her with my coffee.
Leah’s eyed me with a look that said don’t give me none of that shit. “Bella I went to Forks, I saw the same people, ate the same foods and talked about the same things. While you spent the weekend with Mr Sex-on-a-Stick. If you’re going to sit there and try to tell me that your weekend wasn’t any more exciting than mine was, I’m going to be sorely disappointed.”
I smirked at her while she coaxed, “Come on girl tell me, give me some humpty –hump stories.”
“I’m not going to tell you any sex stories,” I replied, rolling my eyes.
“Oh come on, I been waiting for years to hear some good sex stories from you. Now you have some and you won’t share. I don’t think that’s very open-minded of you.” Leah’s eyes were imploring “Come on, please Bella, give me something…anything. I’ll tell you about my sex life.”
“Forget it, I don’t want to hear it.”
Leah got a wicked grin on her face “You better start talking girl, or…last night Jake was all over me, his dick…”
My hands went up in surrender as soon as the dick word came out. “Ahh…stop what do you want to know?”
She was giggling making me giggle along with her, “Was it good? Did you at least have an orgasm? Did he tie you up and making you fucking cum until you almost passed out?”
“Well let’s see. Yes. Yes and the last one Hell Yes!”
My mood was lightened by the estrogen rush, “Edward collared me Friday night.”
My admission must have shocked her, because Leah for once was completely speechless. After a few drinks of her tea Leah was back, “What exactly does that mean, are you like going steady or something?”
I laughed shaking my head, “What is this High School? No it means that he accepted me, as his submissive. That he vows to take care of me, to put my needs ahead of his, that my life is his life.” As I said the words I couldn’t help but stroke the silver band around my neck.
Leah came over to have a closer look, “Bell’s that almost sounds like a marriage.” Her fingers ran along the length. “There is no closure, how do you take it off?”
“I don’t, only Edward can take it off. He has a special key that will open it.”
“Damn Bells, this is serious.”
I was shocked, what did she think I was joking around? “Yes it’s serious.”
“Don’t be upset Bells, I didn’t mean anything. I just didn’t realize that…”
“That what? That I was serious, or that Edward was serious. Or is it that you thought maybe it was all a game to me and I was just playing around, get my kink on and then be done?”
Leah sighed sitting back down. “I just didn’t realize that you would move so fast. How much do you know about Edward? You are placing an awful lot of trust in someone you barely know.”
I thought about what she said. I was placing a lot of trust in Edward, but something inside me told me I could.
“I know enough about him. I also know that he has a way about him that…I just feel so safe when I am with him. He holds me, calms me, cares for me in a way that no one ever has. Last night I told him about what James did to my back. He rocked me and held me until four in the morning when I finally went to sleep.”
Leah smiled, “You care about him,” it wasn’t a question, and all I could do was nod in agreement. She smirked “Well at least he has good taste in jewelry. If you have to wear it all the time, that’s a plus.”
“I have to get dressed, you staying?”
Leah made another cup of tea and followed me into the bedroom. Seth came in a few minutes later and that reminded me to look outside for his collar. Leah filled me in on all the happenings in the big town of Forks. Apparently Charlie did something to our old room, but she refused to tell me what. I figured I would wheedle it out of Jake. She agreed to change our yoga time to the morning class but couldn’t come shopping, because she had a shoot. I was just finishing up my makeup when the doorbell rang.
“Uh…Bells? Someone’s here,” as I came around the corner, all I could see was the bottom half of what I assumed was a man. His whole face was obscured by an immense bouquet of yellow roses that left me gasping.
“Ms Swan?”
“Yes,” I said still overwhelmed.
“Delivery for you,” as I took the bouquet, he turned to leave, “Have a good day ma’am.”
“Wait, let me tip you.”
“It’s already been taken care of ma’am.”
It must have been a damn good tip, because he was smiling to beat the band.
“Thank you!” I called out as the delivery guy walked down the steps. Leah shut the door while I set my vase on the coffee table, taking the attached card off to read.
Isabella
Just a little something to brighten your day,
as you bring brightness to mine.
- Edward
I was practically giddy as I handed the card to Leah. “Well I’ll say this for him, he sure does have finesse.”
“You have no idea,” I giggled.
I stood in front of Edward’s door waiting for him to answer. The eleven o’clock appointment with Mr. Tanner gave me an extra hour. The door opened to a confused Edward, “Isabella?”
I couldn’t help myself, he was so handsome standing there and I was so giddy that I threw my arms around his neck and practically jumped in his arms, kissing his surprised lips.
It only took him a second to respond as he held me closer to him. When he pulled away he had a smirk on his face, “What was that for?”
“Thank you for the roses, they are beautiful,” I kissed him again.
“Is that all it takes to get you to jump me?”
“Oh, I don’t need a reason to jump you,” I giggled.
I was going to kiss him again, but a loud throat clearing from our left caught my attention. Edward patted my bottom, setting me down. When I looked over his shoulder I saw four sets of curious eyes watching me, and a woman on her knees looking at the floor. Oh my god, I can’t believe I just threw myself at him in front of his company, of course my face heated up with my embarrassment causing Edward to chuckle. “Come on, I’ll introduce you,” he said as his arm wrapped around my waist guiding me into the room.
Aro was already standing as we approached, “Isabella, so lovely to see you my dear,” he took my hand kissing the back of it.
“Good morning Sir.” The woman on her knees had not moved, I don’t even know if she blinked because I couldn’t see her eyes. Edward indicated toward the others as they stood. “You already met Felix, this is Caius and Irena. May I introduce Ms. Isabella Swan?”
Each of them said hello, I looked to Edward who nodded in approval, so I said hello back. Caius, a man who appeared to be in his late forties was a few inches shorter then Edward with shoulder length blond hair and piercing blue eyes that automatically made me think of James, was the first to speak.
“So this is the infamous Isabella?” I could feel my face flush once again at the word infamous, but I remained quiet. “So to what do we owe the pleasure of your visit, Isabella?” Irena, a woman about my age and height with sandy brown hair hazel eyes asked.
Edward answered for me, “Isabella stopped by to thank me…”
“The girl can’t speak?” I looked to Caius, his accusatory voice startling me, he snorted, “she doesn’t know her place either, so perhaps she needs a reminder Edward.”
I could feel the tears form in my eyes, and I lowered them out of reflex trying to blink the tears away so as not to embarrass myself further, the women kneeling on the floor flinched while Edward moved in front of me, “I don’t believe it’s your place to tell me what to do with Isabella. If I wanted your opinion I would ask for it.”
Caius huffed, but sat back down. I could feel him leering at me and I was becoming uncomfortable. Edward placed one hand on my back, the other under my chin silently telling me to look up. Irena stepped forward checking me out like I was a piece of fruit. “Well, you are a pretty little thing no wonder Edward is so taken with you. Perhaps we can play together.”
I was starting to feel sick to my stomach, the happy feeling I had when I arrived was all but gone.
“That won’t be happening Irena,” Edwards voice was gruff.
“But Edward, we’ve played together before,” her voice was sultry.
Yeah, I was definitely going to be sick; I just wanted to get the hell out of here. Edward must have sensed my discomfort because he ran his hand down my back; the strength of his touch calmed me and I trusted in the fact that nothing would happen with him here.
Felix spoke up, “Isabella, it is nice to see you again.” He leaned forward, trying to be accommodating, “don’t let them get to you, they think they can say whatever they want.”
I tried to smile but Caius butt in, “I can say whatever I want, free country and all that.”
“Yes, but in someone else’s house, and with someone else’s submissive you should have more respect,” Aro said with authority.
“Master please?” the woman on the floor practically begged.
“Of course my dear,” Aro held his hand out to help her up. “Isabella, I don’t believe you’ve personally met my Jane.”
The woman before me was very petite. She was at least four inches shorter than me with long jet black hair. She was wearing a sleeveless white eyelet summer dress with simple brown wedged heels. I smiled at her and thought she was going to offer me a hand shake; instead she reached out pulling me into a hug.
“Master’s slave is so glad to finally meet you.”
“It’s nice to finally meet you too.” I admitted honestly hugging her back. It felt like I was meeting a pen pal, someone who you knew very well, but had only had indirect contact with.
“You really are very pretty, and if you have any questions or concerns you can ask this one, she would be most happy to help. Master said his slave should invite you to lunch, if you would like to?”
“Thank you,” I smiled warmly at Jane, “That would be wonderful.”
“Fine, then this slave shall call you to make arrangements.”
I was going to answer her but Caius broke in, “Good maybe some of Jane’s fine training and good manners will rub off on you.”
I couldn’t decide if I was angry or hurt, either way the tears threatened my eyes once again.
“Caius I will not tell you again to mind yourself. Perhaps someone should teach you manners.”
I really wanted to get away from this asshole and I pitied any submissive who found themselves with him. I needed to calm down. Between spilling my guts last night, the lack of sleep, and now dealing with obvious disapproval, I was exhausted.
I figured I would redeem myself just a little; I turned to look at Edward. “Master your girl left something in her room, may she go get it?”
Edward eyed me but nodded, “Yes, go.”
“Thank you.”
As I turned towards the steps it wasn’t Caius this time, it was Irena that spoke in a derogatory fashion, “You have to teach her better manners Edward, she didn’t even leave the room properly.”
I didn’t hear what Edward said, or if he said anything at all. I was too busy getting up the stairs as fast as I could, closing the door to my room, and collapsing on my bed in a fit of tears.
Chapter 17
EPOV
The room was darker than it should be as I woke up; the blinds were still closed from Bella’s nap yesterday. She lay in my arms sleeping, her back against my chest. Her arms out in front of her face with the rope still secured to her restrained wrists. She looked comfortable. Instinctually I pulled her closer to my body, a sweet murmur of contentment coming from her, as she snuggled back into a comfortable position. I ran my hand through the softness of her hair, drawing it off her face and over her shoulder. She looked so sweet and innocent but I was beginning to know the depth of her passion. My Bella has an audacious nature, and how in the world her ex-husband didn’t harness that and keep it for himself, I’ll never know. But I’m glad he didn’t.
Then again maybe she came into herself when she left him. Either way, his loss is my gain. I moved my hand down over her shoulder, cupping her breast, so very soft and responsive. My dick was pressed up against her back, begging for attention, but it was going to have to wait a little longer. Reluctantly, I detached myself from her and she snuggled back into the pillows whispering in her sleep, “noo…don’t leave me.” Shaking my head and chuckling silently at her nocturnal discussions as I put on my boxers from last night.
“Come on Seth, let’s go out.” He followed me down the stairs and while he went out to do his business I started the coffee pot. I was happy with the way the weekend had worked out so far. Having the dog here was no problem at all; however, we would be gone all day and it would be better to take him back to Bella’s house before going to my parents. I used the downstairs bathroom before letting Seth in. After giving him fresh water and food, I headed back upstairs.
Bella looked like she was still sleeping when I entered the room, but her eyes cracked open.
“Good morning, Isabella.”
“Good morning, Master,” she smiled innocently.
God, I loved when she called me that, my dick that had calmed down before now stirred. She rolled on her back removing the comforter as she went. I watched her as she arched and stretched her body; she was absolutely gorgeous wearing nothing but the restraints on her wrists and my collar around her neck. If she kept that up, my dick wasn’t going to wait much longer.
Climbing back in bed, she rolled in my direction. I put my hand on her lower back tugging her closer to me, her leg hoisted over my hip, and she wiggled against my hard-on. Looking at me innocently through her lashes, her tongue peeked out wetting her lips before her teeth took a hold of the bottom one. I could tell my girl had something devious on her mind by the coy smile she was trying hard to conceal.
My hand wrapped around her bottom squeezing, “What does my Isabella have on her mind this morning?”
Her eyes grew darker and her breathing deeper as my hand slid through the wetness between her thighs.
“Tell me Isabella; tell your Master what you want.” I whispered the words over her lips before kissing her.
She tried to tug her hands free, but that wasn’t happening. When I pulled back, she sighed.
“Tell me Isabella, maybe you’ll get it.” My lips moved over her throat to the juncture behind her ear.
“I’m going to count to three Isabella and if you don’t tell me, it will be your loss… one…two…th…”
“Master your girl would like you inside her,” her voice broke through.
“I can do that,” I smiled. My fingers moved inside her in a circular motion, she hummed.
“Is this what you wanted Isabella?” Inserting another finger I began to slowly pump in and out of her.
“mmm…nooo.”
“No? You don’t like what I’m doing? You seem to like it.” My fingers picked up speed.
“Ohh…yes I...” she started.
“Who?” I added pressure to her clit with my thumb.
“Ahh…your girl, yes your girl likes it.”
“Hmmm, then why is my girl complaining?” Her breath was starting to quicken, and I could see the signs that told me she was getting close.
“Ohhh…your girl is not com..plaining…ohhh…she just was thinking…” Her legs started to tense up.
“What was she thinking?” I slowed down again enjoying the look of frustration on her face.
“Your girl was hoping that Little Eddie would go inside her”
I had to bite the inside of my mouth to keep from chuckling at her name for my dick.
“I’m sorry, I don’t know who ‘Little Eddie’ is. Besides I told you, I don’t share.” Curling my fingers inside of her, I watched as her eyes hazed over.
“Last chance Isabella.”
“Please Master, please fuck your slut,” she panted out a moan.
My fingers left her to be replaced with my dick, giving her what she asked for.
We laid there just enjoying the after effects of morning sex when Bella started fidgeting. I knew what her problem was, but I was going to make her ask. It didn’t take her long.
“Umm Sir, can your girl go to the bathroom please?”
“Yes she may,” I answered, but didn’t release her. Instead I got up pulling my boxers back on, making like I was leaving the room.
“Ummm Master?”
“Yes?”
“Your girl is stuck,” she pulled on the restraints to prove her point.
“So she is. I like her that way.”
She was quiet as I set about picking up my clothes from last night, placing hers on the chair. Her eyes never left me, and as I walked back to the door like I was going to leave, her voice became slightly panicky. “Master may your girl go, please?”
“I said she could.” She was confused and frustrated, and I was waiting for her to get the point all on her own. I was opening my drawers removing what I would need to take along today, and picking out the clothes I would wear.
“Master can this girl use the bathroom now. Please?”
I smiled at her, walking over to her. “Yes, you should have been that specific before, clear, precise questions. Do you understand?”
“Yes Sir,” she answered while I released her restrained wrist from the bed.
“Hurry up little one.” I grinned as I watched her run to the bathroom. She didn’t bother to shut the door and all I heard was a loud “Ahhh…” making me chuckle.
Coming out of the bathroom, she presented herself to me, and I removed the rope from around her wrist. It was braided nylon, there was no chafing or marks, but I rubbed the ointment in telling her that we would go have some coffee before showering to let it penetrate into the skin. I gave her one of my t-shirts to put on, thinking that I needed to have her bring at least a robe or some pajamas in here, so she has something. Although she does look sexy wearing only my shirt.
Down in the kitchen there was no reason to make a big breakfast, because we would be having brunch at my parent’s house. Instead, I requested a bagel with cream cheese and Bella made herself toast with jam. Once she was sitting we needed to talk about last night.
“Isabella, tell me your thoughts on the club.”
She took a drink of her coffee before answering. “Once I was comfortable I could relax and I enjoyed it. Are there always demonstrations?”
“Yes, usually.”
“Can they be anything? Is there a schedule so you know what is happening where and when?”
I sat back swallowing a bite of my bagel thinking about her questions. “In order to do a demonstration, you need to sign up for a time slot, and give a brief description of your… performance. So in a sense yes, there is a schedule, like I knew that the bondage demonstration would be in room B last night. That was another reason I wanted to go. I wanted you to see it, since you expressed interest in that area.”
Bella smiled as I continued to answer her questions. “On the stage there is no penetration allowed of any kind and no edge play permitted. Other than that, anything goes.”
She was still quiet, drinking her coffee. “Why was that Felix so interested in my collar?”
I finished my coffee, handing her the cup to refill. I watched her as I talked, “Felix made it, he owns a jewelry shop and makes custom pieces.”
“Oh,” she said putting the pot back on the warmer. She handed me the cup.
“I’m sorry about Tanya,” I apologized.
“It’s not your fault, and Rose sort of warned me,”she shrugged.
What? Warned her about what? I didn’t need to ask as she just continued on with her thought. “Rose told me I was walking into the lion’s den. Basically, she said that there are people who play and that they would try to mess with me to get to you.”
“When did she say this?” I wasn’t upset, I just didn’t know that Rose and Bella were that close that Rose felt the need to warn her about anything.
“Last night, in the bathroom.”
“Oh, was that her technicality?”
Bella smirked and then her face grew serious as she drew her lip between her teeth.
“What’s the matter?”
“I don’t want to get Rose into trouble.”
I chuckled, “Don’t worry about Rose, I won’t say anything. Now tell me your thoughts on the clamp.”
She made a face.
“You didn’t like it?”
Bella shook her head. “Not that I didn’t like it. It just became really …intense. It was getting harder to cope with, and I was starting to have a hard time ignoring it. Then when you took it off, oh my, that was something else. Then I was so sensitive, and every little touch sent shocks through me, it was kind of amazing.”
“Would you do it again?” I asked as I smiled at her.
She didn’t even think about it, she just answered, “Yes, I would,” making me grin, that’s my girl.
“How did you sleep with the restraints?”
She smiled taking a drink, “Surprisingly well, I didn’t even know that I had them on until I woke up. And they didn’t bother me until I had to go to the bathroom and couldn’t move. Which was not very nice by the way,” she glared at me.
I glared right back, “Lower your eyes Isabella. I answered your question as you asked it; you have to be very direct and precise with your questions. I’m not a mind reader, so don’t assume I know what you mean.”
I did know exactly what she meant, but I wanted her to understand that I expect exactness from her, not vagueness.
“Yes Master.”
I put my hand under her chin. “Look at me Isabella,” her eyes came up to meet mine. “I want to talk to you about today. My parents know about our relationship; however they don’t want it flaunted in front of them. So we can either cut our usual time short, or we can modify our approach.”
“Modify?”
“Yes well, obviously you would not call me Master or Sir. In fact you shouldn’t address me at all unless necessary. When you present yourself, don’t make it obvious, and talk in the first person.”
“Is that what you usually do?”
“In public yes, I’ve never taken anyone to my parents so, this is new to me too.”
Bella nodded, I could see her thinking, but she didn’t say anything.
After a minute I just decided for her. “I think it might be best if we cut our time short, since we haven’t been in public yet. Maybe we should not use my parents as a practice run.”
“I was thinking the same thing; I don’t want to mess up.”
“Ok then, once we leave the house…” I looked at the clock - 8:40 “…which is in an hour, our …usual will be over for the weekend.”
“It’s kind of sad to have it go away.” She got a glum look on her face.
“It will be back... So I can assume the weekend was acceptable to you?” I smiled at her.
“Yes it was very acceptable.” She beamed at me.
That was good to know, I wasn’t too tough on her. But I did enforce my rules, and she discovered more about what is expected of her. I ascertained more of her personality and physical responses along with a starting point for her limits, not too bad for a first weekend.
We showered and dressed. Today is a casual affair so I wore jeans and a white polo shirt with my black Nikes. Bella had on khaki Capri’s with a brown silk shirt and heeled sandals. I gave her my swimming items to place in the bag with hers along with the wrapped gift. We were ready to go and Seth was on his leash, before walking out the door, I took ahold of Bella kissing her soundly.
“You pleased me very much this weekend Isabella.”
“Thank you Master,” she smiled confidently.
We stood there in the doorway staring in each other’s eyes. She was right it is sad to let it go. With a deep sigh, I took her hand, “come on let’s go.”
The sun was shining, it was a beautiful day and if we had time it would have been nice to walk Seth home and take the bike. As it was we were running close on time. Bella quickly took the dog into her house, and I stopped to get a bouquet of flowers, finally we got to the ferry and it was just starting to load. Once aboard we got out of the car and found Emmet and Rose by the railing.
“Made it, huh? Thought I was going to have to tell mom you would be late.” Emmet had stopped for coffee and was handing it to us
“No, it took longer at the florist then I thought.” Bella thanked him for her coffee and started talking with Rose. Emmet asked what happened last night with Tanya and I gave him a quick rundown, watching Bella as I spoke. I could tell she was half listening- half talking to Rose.
I placed my arm across her chest, drawing her back against my body.
“So, what did you decide about next weekend?” I could feel her stiffen in my arms at Emmet’s question.
I glanced down at her telling Emmet that I would let him know.
Once we were back in the car, waiting to disembark I placed my hand on her knee giving a small squeeze.
“You alright babe?”
“Yes I’m fine, why do you ask?” Bella looked at me smiling.
“You seemed tense when Emmet mentioned next weekend,” I shrugged but continued to press, “You don’t want to go?”
Bella put her hand on top of mine. “It’s not that I don’t want to, it’s just…”
“Just what?”
She sighed, “What about Seth and…”
The cars started to move and because we were one of the last ones on, we were the first to get off.
“Bella we can take Seth, that’s not a problem or if you would rather not, can’t Leah and Jacob keep him? Is that your greatest worry-the dog?”
“I’m not worried Edward.”
I glanced at her quickly as I drove, she definitely had something on her mind, I just had to figure out a way to get it out of her. Talk about frustrating. “Bella talk to me, what’s got your panties in a twist?”
Turning off the road onto the driveway, I was getting impatient. “Isabella?”
Her eyes met my sideward glance “Edward, can we talk about this later? Please?”
I wasn’t happy about it, but I nodded as we pulled to the end of the driveway and into the circular carport in front of the house.
BPOV
Edward turned left directly after the boat house that Peggy would be living in. The driveway was lengthy and surrounded by trees that seemed to go on forever. Finally, the car went around a curve and the trees separated allowing me to see the house. Perhaps house was an understatement; this was more like a mini castle. The home was stately, standing two stories tall and composed entirely of brick. The main entrance was at the end of a wide flagstone walkway with shrubs lining both sides all the way up to the house. On each side of the entry way symmetrical wings jetted out. Making the home look grand and dignified; to put it simply it was spectacular.
“Wow!” It was all I could say.
“Do you like it?”
I nodded, “It’s beautiful, and you grew up here?”
Edward was opening his door; “Yeah, I’ll show you where my mother used to measure us,” he chuckled then walked around to open my door.
Rose and Emmet had pulled in next to us, and as I took the black bag out of the car Edward took ahold of my hand and led me towards the house. The arched front door was made of inlaid glass and stood at least ten feet tall, opening to a foyer with another glass door that opened into the main area. The home seemed to be done in whites and creams. Ornate arch french doors were on both sides of the main entrance hall, with a prominent wide curved staircase directly in front.
Esme came to greet us kissing each of her sons and Rose before turning to me with a warm hug.
“Bella it is so nice to see you again, I’m so glad you could join us.”
“Thank you for inviting me. Your home is beautiful.” I smiled. It was better than beautiful but that was the only word I could think of at the moment.
“Thank you dear, Edward; show Bella around, so she knows where everything is.”
Edward took my bag, placing it by the stairs and then took my hand for the tour. Each room on the main floor opened into another with the same arched french doors. The rooms towards the back of the house opened onto the covered patio that looked out over the back courtyard. Everyone else was down there surrounding a large stoned hearth. Alice looked up and waved, I smiled waving back then looked past the gardens to the view of the water and the skyline of Seattle.
“Edward, this is amazing, it’s like straight out of a fairytale,” I murmured, because I just could not get over the awe of what I was seeing.
He grinned taking my hand, “This is my mother’s favorite spot.”
As I looked around at the plush cushions on the natural wicker furniture, it looked very comfortable and tranquil.
“I can see why,” I realized I was still whispering, and after clearing my throat I asked, “How do you get down in the courtyard?”
“I’ll show you, let’s finish the tour first”
Upstairs the right wing contained the master suite complete with his and her dressing rooms that were each bigger than my bedroom. There was also the laundry room and bathroom. On the left wing were four bedrooms, Edward’s was the second one down the hallway. He opened the door showing me the room where he spent his childhood. It was painted a muted blue with white woodwork. Coordinating bedding and drapes finished off the décor. Trophies for baseball and basketball lined a shelf over a student’s desk. A wooden entertainment center held a TV, video games and stereo system, the wall contained sports memorabilia and Seahawk posters.
Edward took my hand leading me over to the bed. He sat down, pulling me into his lap, gathering my hair; moving it all to one side, so he could rest his chin on my shoulder. “I can see your brain working, what are you thinking?”
I looked around the room “Right now I’m thinking you really like sports.”
“Yes I do,” he chuckled. Edward kissed my cheek. “Now let’s talk, tell me your concerns for next weekend, and I don’t want to hear about the dog.”
“It’s not a concern Edward; it’s more of an …observation.”
Edward didn’t say anything; he just waited for me to finish my thought. “Did you look at my calendar?”
He shook his head, “No, is there something next week?”
My hands held his playing with his fingers “No…not next week, but..,”
He sighed in exasperation taking my hands and swinging me so that I straddled his thighs.
“Isabella look at me.”
My eyes met his.
“I can be very patient, but I am not in the habit of having to work so hard to get the information that I request. I’m going to ask you one more time to tell me your concerns. Now.”
“I told you it’s not a concern, it’s an observation. Next weekend we have nothing but the following two we are busy.” He looked at me still not getting it. I furrowed my brow, looking down at his chest “I was just wondering when…if we aren’t home when...” I sighed and then just spit it out “When will we have our… usual?”
To my surprise he chuckled, “One weekend and you’re spoiled already.”
He thinks I’m spoiled? James always said I was spoiled. I could feel the hurt and the tears well in my eyes, and I tried to blink them away, trying to rid myself of the memories.
“Why the tears Isabella?” Edward’s hand was on my chin, lifting my head while his other hand wiped away the stray tear.
I sniffled not trusting my voice. He kept looking in my eyes waiting. I took a deep breath and then muttered, “You think I’m spoiled too?”
Edward’s eyes locked on mine and I could see perception dawn in them, then his arms wrapped tightly around me his hands running down the length of my hair. “No baby, poor choice of words. I don’t think you’re spoiled. What I meant was, one weekend of… the usual…” I could feel his grin against my skin, “… and now you don’t want to be without it.”
“Is that a bad thing?” I whispered softly, feeling kind of stupid for letting mere words wound me to the point of tears.
“No baby I would say that is a good thing.”
Edward’s eyes once again locked with mine for a few seconds before he kissed me. Just as the kiss was starting to make my insides smolder there was a knock at the door.
“You guys in there?” Alice’s voice broke through our building passion.
He smirked at me, “Yes Alice.”
“I’m coming in” The door burst open before I could get up off his lap. She stood eyeing us, making me feel self-conscious under her glare. “Emmet wants to eat and mom said not until you two come out, so wrap it up and let’s go.”
“You know, for someone so little you sure can be annoying.” I giggled at Alice’s mock hurt.
“Tell them we will be right down.”
Alice gave us a sideways glare exhaling in a huff, “Don’t make me come back up here,” she said in her best mommy voice.
“Yes ma’am,” Edward said, and I stifled a giggle as she left leaving the door wide open. He spun me to look at him, lightly touching my chin to make me look at him. “You alright?” I smiled but didn’t answer; he kissed my forehead. “We’ll finish this discussion later, right now we better get down there. The last thing we want is for Alice to have to come back up here.”
“She might spank us,” I said with bogus worry in my voice.
“That’s just too weird,” Edward replied, laughing.
I followed him back down the stairs retrieving my bag and purse. Edward picked up the flowers he brought guiding me to the lower level. Directly across the atrium was another tall arched doorway. He gestured to the left, “That’s the pool area,” and then to the right, “The game room and theater are that way. I’ll show you those after Emmet eats.” I snickered following him outside.
The spacious curved patio was made of the same flagstone that was out front. Wicker furniture set in various seating arrangements filled most of the space. Large free standing umbrellas provided shade over the groupings. To the far left stood the hearth that I had admired from the balcony, standing ten feet tall and least twice as wide. Seating arrangements were positioned in front of it; I found myself hoping that they would light a fire this evening so I would have a reason to sit there.
“It’s about freaking time, what the hell took you so long?”
“I was giving Bella a tour, sorry to interrupt your feeding schedule Emmet”
Jasper said hello as Alice hugged me, “Sorry I didn’t say hi upstairs, but Emmet was getting impatient.”
“That’s ok,” I said hugging her back.
Edward asked for the gift, handing it to his mother with a kiss on the cheek. “Happy Mother’s Day”
“Thank you darling.” She opened her gift while I said hello to Carlisle, who was sitting beside an older woman with thick silver hair.
Edward bent down kissing her cheek, “Hi grams, Happy Mother’s Day.” He placed the flowers on her lap.
“Thank you Edward, they are beautiful. Now, tell me who this lovely young woman is standing next to you.”
“Isabella Swan, this is my Grandma Cullen”
I took her hand, “It’s very nice to meet you.”
“As you dear, sit and talk to me.” I took the seat between her and Esme, who was gushing over the silver locket that contained a picture of her children that was taken when they were much younger. She got up to show Carlisle having him put it on her.
Edward sat in the chair next to his father and once the locket was in place Esme hugged her son thanking him again.
His grandmother turned her attention to me. “Tell me dear, how you two meet?”
This is one of those times where I had to think quickly. I didn’t imagine she would appreciate that I met him at a sex club, but I didn’t want to lie either. I looked to Edward for some help; he just smirked at me raising his eyebrows waiting for my answer.
“Well, actually he ran into me while I was walking in a door,” glancing over at him, he smiled. “He almost knocked me over.”
She beamed at me, and then peeked at Edward, “That’s how I met my husband.” I smiled at her as she went on reminiscing, “I was walking into Macy’s in New York, he held the door for me. Then he secretly followed me around until finally he got up enough nerve to ask me for coffee. We went to the food court and had coffee and shared an Ice Cream. We were married three months later.”
“Gramps stalked you, and you married him.” I stifled my amusement at Edward’s comment.
“Oh yes Edward, I knew when our hands touched - accidentally of course - in the doorway, that he was the one. I could feel the shock.” She looked at me, “I’m just glad he didn’t follow me into the ladies wear.” I giggled along with her. I could see Edward in my periphery lean forward, when I glanced at him, his eyes were down and he looked like he was engrossed in thought.
EPOV
I had heard that story many times, how they met at Macy’s. I don’t ever remember her saying anything about a shock. What kind of shock? Was it a one time thing or was it always there? They were giggling- something about ladies wear. My mother took her seat beside Bella.
“You alright Edward?” My mom asked in apprehension.
I raised my eyes, “Yes, I’m fine.”
Bella was watching me from the corner of her eye; I gave her a small smile trying to disguise my uneasiness.
“Edward, there is a few openings next spring in the residency program, you could put in your application early and take the refresher courses.”
I sighed, it’s not that my father bothered me about my wasted education, but he brings it up every now and then.
“I’ll think about it dad.”
“Well don’t think too long. If you want to apply, you should get it in by the middle of June.”
“Ok…Now if you all will excuse us, I’m starving.” I put my hand out for Bella to take, once her hand was in mine, that tingle went straight through my body. I stood for a second staring at our joined hands; Bella gave mine a little squeeze bringing me back to reality. When I looked up, I caught a grin on my grams face, she knew.
The food was set up in the shade under the balcony. Dad had ordered the typical brunch fare, French toast, Quiche, salads, fruit, muffins, scones, coffee and juice. I really was hungry so I filled my plate. Bella on the other hand, ate like a bird as usual. I didn’t say anything, as long as she followed her food plan, I would let it go.
Once we were seated, the women showed what they had gotten for mother’s day. Alice had two new charms for her bracelet from her children, and a full day spa treatment from Jasper. Rose was given the acupressure bracelet that Bella had talked about yesterday, and new earrings. My father was taking my mother out tomorrow night for dinner and the theater and they were going to stay overnight at the Fairmont Hotel.
Bella admired all the gifts, but as I talked with the men I couldn’t help but notice the small glimmer of sadness in her eyes. It brought to mind what Jacob had said, ‘she will be lucky if she can ever have children’ I wondered if the cause of her distress was that fact, or was she thinking of her own mother. Or maybe I was reading too much into it and she just had to burp. That last thought made me smile.
“Yo, earth to Edward,” Jasper brought me out of my contemplation.
“What? Sorry I was thinking” I tried to focus.
“Was it about the cabin next weekend?”
“Would you shut the fuck up about next weekend.” I said fixing Emmet with a stare
“Edward!” my mother admonished my language.
“Sorry Mom,” I said, as Vinny announced that Uncle Eddie said a bad word.
Emmet couldn’t help but chime in, “Yeah little Eddie, watch what you spit out.”
Bella went into a fit of giggles; she looked at me and laughed harder. I knew what she was fucking laughing at, her pet name for my dick. I tried to fix her with a stare, but it wasn’t working and I ended up chuckling right along with her.
“What’s so fucking funny?”
“Emmet!” my mother was more annoyed.
“That’s it, come on kids lets go swimming,” Alice announced while Emmet apologized for his cursing.
“I swear I raised these boys right.”
Dad and Jasper took the dishes and utensils into the downstairs kitchenette while Emmet and I broke down the tables putting them and the warming trays away. When we got into the pool area, the women were already changed and conjugating in the far corner. Alice was in the pool, holding Mia in some blowup chair. Rose and Bella were sitting on the edge with their feet in the water, while mom and grams sat half submerged on the steps watching Vinny wow them with his back flips.
“Hey! Uncle Emmet, Uncle Eddie, watch this”
He ran from the other side, sprung off the end, flipped once and hit the water with a huge splash.
“That was cool dude.” I agreed with Emmet as he swam back to the edge to do it again. Rose told Emmet that his suit was in the changing room. Bella stood up she was wearing a short little pink and white dress, and I assumed her swimming suit was underneath.
“I have your suit over here,” she walked over to a lounge chair handing it to me.
“Thanks babe,” I said as I flung it over my shoulder.
“Your welcome just put your clothes in the bag when you’re done.”
I smirked at her “Don’t you want to help me?” I leaned close so I could whisper in her ear, “You could shake hands with Little Eddie.”
She gasped and then giggled, I chuckled pulling her to me by her hips. “I couldn’t help it Edward, it was too funny.”
I kissed her softly talking against her lips, “You might just pay for that one.”
Bella blushed the most beautiful shade of pink, looked up at me innocently through her lashes, releasing her bottom lip from her teeth, “Promises, Promises,” she said with raised eyebrows and a mischievous grin. Fuck, the growl was released without my permission as I held her face in my hands while I kissed her.
It took every ounce of strength I had to keep the kiss from going too far. Somewhere in the recesses of my mind I remembered where I was, and as I pulled away I reminded her, “I never break a promise Isabella.” She did that eyebrow thing again, biting her lip and blushing. I sighed, “You’re killing me woman.”
When I looked over I became aware that our exchange had become the focal point of the room. Their expressions raged from shock, fascination, delight, and poor Vinny was wrinkling his nose and shaking his head like he smelled something foul. I just smiled at them, leaving Bella there while I went to change.
When I came out, Jasper was rounding the kids up to put down for their naps and grams was going to lie down as well. Alice went into the kitchen with mom to make some drinks while Bella and Rose sat in the lounge chair laughing about some cat woman. Once everyone was back in the pool area, Bella took off that dress thing she had on revealing the pink two pieces underneath, before getting in the water.
Emmet wanted to play water volleyball, and Alice insisted that the teams didn’t contain any couples. Bella was on the other team with mom, Emmet and Jasper. She played like a girl, but she seemed to be having a good time. I got slightly pissed when she and Jasper were going for the ball at the same time tangling themselves up and going under the water. They came up laughing and Emmet informed them that the object of the game was to get the ball over the net.
She sort of redeemed herself when mom hit the ball and Bella tapped it over to Alice who completely missed it, earning a team high five. Needless to say their team won, making dad and I call for a rematch.
They won the second game too putting an end to the competition.
The girls refilled their drinks and dad brought us all a beer. Bella was sitting on the edge of the pool; I went over standing between her legs, taking her hands so they wrapped around my chest pulling her into the water with me. Alice was sitting on Jaspers lap on the steps and Emmet held Rose against his chest with her legs floating in front of her. While mom and dad sat on the edge with their legs in the water. It was nice to have Bella with me; I was always alone while my family sat together as couples.
“Ok, so Tuesday mom is going to come to my house, before I take Vinny to school. Do you want to meet at my house or somewhere else?” Alice wanted to get her schedule down and was asking Rose and Bella.
“You know Alice, I was thinking after lunch I could take Mia home for her nap; and then if you’re not done I could get Vinny from school for you,” my mother offered.
“Are you sure?”
Mom beamed wide at my dad. “I’m hoping to be very tired after tomorrow night.”
That comment earned a collective, “Ah gross!”
Mom laughed as she stood up. “Help me bring out the snacks dear,” dad got up and followed her.
I took a hold of Bella’s legs under the water wrapping them around my waist, letting my hand skim over thighs while Alice thought out loud. “Plan to meet at my house at ten, Mom can take Mia in her car, that way she has the seat and we can all go together.”
Bella spoke up, “That’s ok, but I have yoga at three, so I need to be back close to two.”
“Can’t you skip yoga?”
“No, I can’t”
Alice pouted and was pleading with her eyes. Bella whispered in my ear, “Tell her I can’t.”
I smirked, “She can’t miss yoga.”
Alice’s face was full of scorn, “You mean I have to rearrange a whole day because of your kinky sex stuff?”
“Alice!” I admonished her while Emmet and Jasper laughed; Bella buried her head in my neck.
“Alright, alright, sorry....” Alice huffed. “Could you take an early morning class?”
I felt her shrug on my back, “Only thing is I go with Leah.”
“Is Leah still doing yoga?” Rose was curious.
“Yeah, she thinks her ass is big,” Bella explained.
“Am I going to get a big ass?” No one had a chance to answer Rose because Emmet interjected, “That’s ok baby, it’s just a bigger target,” he leaned down kissing his wife’s cheek. “Which reminds me, did you tell little Bella, how big my dick was?”
Bella and Rose responded with a resounding, “No!” while Alice went further, “No one cares how big your dick is.”
Rose giggled, “Well, I wouldn’t go that far.” Bella held me tighter giggling in my neck.
“How the hell did we start talking about Emmet’s dick?” Jasper asked confused.
I answered, “I don’t know, but can we not do it anymore?”
“Why don’t you see if Leah wants to come…?” Alice questioned
“All women want to come, ask little Bella, she had to write…”
Bella gasped and before I knew what she was doing, she jumped on Emmet’s back pulling him down into the water, taking Rose along, when he came back up, Rose grabbed his legs and Bella pushed him back under again. After he resurfaced Bella had him in a head lock, “Don’t you talk about my orgasm anymore!” She snarled in his ear, surprising me and making everyone else chuckle.
“Alright, alright, dude control your woman here!”
Mom and dad came back in carrying trays, “Emmet would you leave Bella alone?” mom warned.
“Would I leave Bella alone? She attacked me!”
“I’m sure you deserved it,” dad said knowingly, as Bella took her spot back on me squeezing me around the neck.
“It’s all your fault, you did it on purpose,” she whispered in my ear.
I laughed pulling her head forward for a kiss.
“Damn dude, if I was you, I wouldn’t piss her off.” I grinned at him.
Once everyone stopped laughing, Alice wanted to know if Leah would want to go and if they could change their class time. Bella said she would ask, but if not, then she had to be back at Alice’s house by two. With that settled, we got out of the pool, just as Vinny came back down.
Mom had brought out the salads from earlier along with cheese, crackers, shrimp and pâté, which I was going to make Bella try. The girls pulled the lounge chairs closer to the pool and sat there eating and talking, I sat on the side of Bella’s chair placing the cracker in front of her mouth, and she wriggled her nose, waving it away.
“Just try it” I coaxed, but she shook her head.
“Isabella, try it…,” I leaned over to whisper in her ear, “…maybe you’ll get a reward.”
She smiled brightly, opening her mouth. I watched her face as she chewed, she didn’t show any sign of distaste, “See, it’s not so bad.”
“It’s not so good either.” She said, making me chuckle while she took a long drink. Perhaps that will be one of the things I force her to eat. It won’t hurt her; but it will further instill into her a sense of being owned.
The rest of the afternoon was spent lounging around, talking and laughing with my family. Around six dad started the grill, taking orders for how people wanted their stakes cooked. Half an hour later we were gathered around the patio tables to eat. Dad stood to make a toast:
“Mom, you have always been a rock to me. Esme, thank you for loving me and giving me three wonderful children, and to my children, thank you for the grandchildren. Those that are here and those that are yet to come, may they give you as much joy as mine have given to me. To all mothers…”
We all agreed with a “Salute!”
Dad sat back down after kissing gram on the cheek and then mom. It’s heartwarming that after thirty-two years of marriage they still love each other very deeply. Talk around the table centered on what activity Alice had planned for the evening, but she was tight lipped and wouldn’t tell. Apparently Jasper didn’t know, or else he was sworn to secrecy.
“Bella, Carlisle was telling me about the walk-a-thon. Is that the only fund raiser the center does?”
She swallowed before answering mom, “No, they do three major fundraisers, the walk-a-thon, a holiday gala and auction, and then a dress sale.”
“What’s a dress sale?” Grams asked.
“Umm…dresses get donated, either new from stores or hardly worn from people, and in March we sell them for twenty-dollars each, just in time for proms. People travel hours to come to it. The dress sale actually is our best money maker.”
“I think I saw that advertised at Neiman Marcus,” Alice commented.
“It’s possible; I don’t know where they advertise. I don’t do fund raising, I’ll go and work, but someone else is in charge of that.”
“How many volunteers are there Bella?” Jasper surprised me with his question.
Bella thought for a second, “In total, I don’t know seventy-five maybe eighty? There are eight central committee heads, and then the people who work on those specific committees.”
Grams, who was sitting next to Bella took her hand, “And what do you do dear?”
Dad spoke up before she could answer, “Bella does counseling, and placement. Which she is very good at I might add.”
Bella looked to my dad, and they seemed to share a common memory. I knew it was irrational, but it pissed me the fuck off. I figured I better calm down so I asked a question, because honestly I didn’t know much about the center and I was curious.
“What other committees are there?”
Bella took a drink then sighed, I could see her thinking. I knew she hated being the center of attention, but I also knew that the center was very important to her. She started counting them off on her fingers “Well the hot-line, that’s open twenty-four hours, Court, someone to go to court to provide support, there’s a group who organizes all the outside agencies, which I’m sure is who contacted Carlisle.” Dad nodded “umm…let’s see then there is the shopping crew, they get the supplies that are needed, the cleaning crew, and the clothing crew. I think that’s it.”
“What does the clothing crew do?” Alice asked.
“They sort and wash all the donated clothing.”
“You take donated clothing?”
Bella nodded to Rose and then responded, “Yes, any and all. These women and their children come with nothing. No money, food, clothes. They’re scared; most don’t even know how to balance a check book. They are so beaten down, not just with bruises but their self-esteem.”
“What do you do with them?” grams wanted to know.
“We hide them,” Bella said mater-of-factly. “We hold their hand, give them support, medical treatment, and empower them with basic skills, help them find a job and a safe place to live. So they can go out into the world strong, unafraid and survive.”
Bella had tears in her eyes; I wrapped my arm around her shoulder, kissing her hair. When I looked up Rose wiped a tear away, as well as my mother.
“You know in my day, it was all hush, hush and kept quiet; but now with the laws it should be easier for women to get help and be safe.”
“Unfortunately that’s not the case. Women are still treated as second class citizens, and a man will get more jail time for beating his dog then for beating his wife or child. The only recourse a woman has is to get a PFA- protection from abuse order- and all that does is causes the man more legal problems after he has broken it. If, she can prove it, he can terrorize her, stalk her, and threaten her all he wants. Because unless she can prove it’s him, there is nothing anyone can do about it. And fear is the abusers number one weapon. It’s what keeps women from seeking help or getting better. That keeps him in control, and they get very mad when their control starts to slip. We’ve had volunteers threatened, windows broken, tires slashed, yeah they get really mad.”
“And you do this because…?” Grams wasn’t being nosey, she just was trying to understand.
Bella was quiet, contemplating her answer, finally whispering, “Someone has to.”
I squeezed her leg letting her know that I was there.
“Can anyone go in the walk-a-thon?”
Dad answered Rose, “Yes, I was hoping that maybe we could make it a family outing. I’ll bring home some forms for you.”
Finally Bella smiled, “The more the merrier.”
The dinner conversation changed to a more pleasant talk about what show mom and dad were seeing tomorrow, along with plans concerning next weekend, which I still hadn’t settled with Bella. I figured we would be going, it was just the details that had to be worked out.
The women sat around the fire in the hearth relaxing, while we men cleaned up the dishes and brought out desert. Dad had two different cakes; one was a rich chocolate with dark chocolate icing and chocolate shavings on top. The other was a dark chocolate three layer cake with white icing and walnuts.
“I never knew women liked chocolate so much,” I pondered outloud.
The three of them looked at me, like I just said the world was flat.
“Dude, are you serious?” I nodded at Emmet.
“To a woman, chocolate is like another food group.” my father laughed at Jaspers comment.
“Wait until it’s…that time of the month. Rosie would hoard the shit in her purse.”
“What?” Bella was going to hoard chocolate and eat it all the time?
Emmet tried to explain, “They can’t help it Edward, it’s like a chemical imbalance in their brain or something. If they don’t get it, well let’s put it this way, your little pussy cat is going to turn into a furious lion,” they all laughed at my bewildered expression. Emmet went on asking “How do you not know this?”
Jasper put his hand on my shoulder, “In Edwards’s defense, he’s really never dealt with the day to day contact of a woman. Their emotional changes, the PMS…”
“The changing their mind every five minutes,” Dad said handing me the coffee café.
“Oh and my personal favorite: ‘Does this make me look fat?” Emmet said turning to show us his butt, while they all laughed.
I just stood there taking this all in, “Are you shitting me?” that made them laugh even more.
Each of us had something to carry and we were walking out the patio door when it hit me “Wait, how did you answer the fat question?”
All three men stopped walking in their tracks, simultaneously answering “No!”
Emmet looked me in the eye with a very serious expression. “You always say, ‘No, you look fantastic baby’.” Jasper and dad nodded in agreement. As we started towards the women I looked at Bella and could not imagine her doing the things they were talking about. But apparently all women did this stuff, even my mother? No, they had to be wrong.
I cut a small piece of each cake for Bella and me to share along with our coffees. While we were sitting there Alice explained what we were going to be doing tonight. Charades, boys against the girls, best two out of three the losing team has to sing a Karaoke song of the winning teams choosing. She gave us time while she and Jasper put the kids to bed to decide what song we would choose, writing it down for gram who was going to be the time keeper and judge. It seems that grams was in on this because to keep it fair, she was the one who came up with the phrases we were going to act out.
The fire was lit in the hearth; dad had the patio lights on so we could see. It had come down to the third round. First team to act out all six phrases wins. We needed the last one, and from what I could tell the women were on their fifth. Emmett was acting ours out; we already knew it was a movie. He was holding his hands together like he was praying – one of the girls yelled Fried Green Tomatoes – and Alice stood to do the last phrase – I turned my attention back to Emmett.
Now he is pointing up…
“Prayer up”
“Praying halo”
Then he was making a cross with his finger…
“Jesus”
He started waving his hand encouraging us for more…
“Jesus”
“Savior”
“God!” Jasper yelled and Emmett started nodding
The women were yelling out words.
Emmett pointed to dad…
“God-dad”
“God-husband”
“God-Father”
The Three of us yelled, “The God father!!”
“Yes!” Emmett fist pumped in the air.
The women all moaned, “aww…what was it Alice?”
My sister sounded dejected, “Black tie event.”
“Damn,” Rose muttered.
“Alice, why were you holding your hair?”
“It’s black Bella!”
They broke out in fits of giggles.
“Couldn’t you guess that Bella?” My mom asked through her laughter.
Bella shook her head laughing, “No!”
Rose was still laughing, “Why didn’t you point to your shoes?”
“Because then you bitches would have been saying toes and feet, you couldn’t even get it from my hair!” Alice complained.
“But your hair isn’t black.” Bella stated, blinking at Alice.
“It’s close enough Bella, Mom isn’t my hair black?” Alice turned to Mom for support while everyone began laughing again.
“No, honey it’s not.” My mother was laughing just as hard.
My father cleared his throat loudly, four pair of eyes turned to look at him.
“You women lost; mom give them their song.”
Grams handed my mom the folded paper, she took it with a smile on her face.
Mom opened it up and then looked at dad, “You’ve got to be kidding?”
The room was darker than it should be as I woke up; the blinds were still closed from Bella’s nap yesterday. She lay in my arms sleeping, her back against my chest. Her arms out in front of her face with the rope still secured to her restrained wrists. She looked comfortable. Instinctually I pulled her closer to my body, a sweet murmur of contentment coming from her, as she snuggled back into a comfortable position. I ran my hand through the softness of her hair, drawing it off her face and over her shoulder. She looked so sweet and innocent but I was beginning to know the depth of her passion. My Bella has an audacious nature, and how in the world her ex-husband didn’t harness that and keep it for himself, I’ll never know. But I’m glad he didn’t.
Then again maybe she came into herself when she left him. Either way, his loss is my gain. I moved my hand down over her shoulder, cupping her breast, so very soft and responsive. My dick was pressed up against her back, begging for attention, but it was going to have to wait a little longer. Reluctantly, I detached myself from her and she snuggled back into the pillows whispering in her sleep, “noo…don’t leave me.” Shaking my head and chuckling silently at her nocturnal discussions as I put on my boxers from last night.
“Come on Seth, let’s go out.” He followed me down the stairs and while he went out to do his business I started the coffee pot. I was happy with the way the weekend had worked out so far. Having the dog here was no problem at all; however, we would be gone all day and it would be better to take him back to Bella’s house before going to my parents. I used the downstairs bathroom before letting Seth in. After giving him fresh water and food, I headed back upstairs.
Bella looked like she was still sleeping when I entered the room, but her eyes cracked open.
“Good morning, Isabella.”
“Good morning, Master,” she smiled innocently.
God, I loved when she called me that, my dick that had calmed down before now stirred. She rolled on her back removing the comforter as she went. I watched her as she arched and stretched her body; she was absolutely gorgeous wearing nothing but the restraints on her wrists and my collar around her neck. If she kept that up, my dick wasn’t going to wait much longer.
Climbing back in bed, she rolled in my direction. I put my hand on her lower back tugging her closer to me, her leg hoisted over my hip, and she wiggled against my hard-on. Looking at me innocently through her lashes, her tongue peeked out wetting her lips before her teeth took a hold of the bottom one. I could tell my girl had something devious on her mind by the coy smile she was trying hard to conceal.
My hand wrapped around her bottom squeezing, “What does my Isabella have on her mind this morning?”
Her eyes grew darker and her breathing deeper as my hand slid through the wetness between her thighs.
“Tell me Isabella; tell your Master what you want.” I whispered the words over her lips before kissing her.
She tried to tug her hands free, but that wasn’t happening. When I pulled back, she sighed.
“Tell me Isabella, maybe you’ll get it.” My lips moved over her throat to the juncture behind her ear.
“I’m going to count to three Isabella and if you don’t tell me, it will be your loss… one…two…th…”
“Master your girl would like you inside her,” her voice broke through.
“I can do that,” I smiled. My fingers moved inside her in a circular motion, she hummed.
“Is this what you wanted Isabella?” Inserting another finger I began to slowly pump in and out of her.
“mmm…nooo.”
“No? You don’t like what I’m doing? You seem to like it.” My fingers picked up speed.
“Ohh…yes I...” she started.
“Who?” I added pressure to her clit with my thumb.
“Ahh…your girl, yes your girl likes it.”
“Hmmm, then why is my girl complaining?” Her breath was starting to quicken, and I could see the signs that told me she was getting close.
“Ohhh…your girl is not com..plaining…ohhh…she just was thinking…” Her legs started to tense up.
“What was she thinking?” I slowed down again enjoying the look of frustration on her face.
“Your girl was hoping that Little Eddie would go inside her”
I had to bite the inside of my mouth to keep from chuckling at her name for my dick.
“I’m sorry, I don’t know who ‘Little Eddie’ is. Besides I told you, I don’t share.” Curling my fingers inside of her, I watched as her eyes hazed over.
“Last chance Isabella.”
“Please Master, please fuck your slut,” she panted out a moan.
My fingers left her to be replaced with my dick, giving her what she asked for.
We laid there just enjoying the after effects of morning sex when Bella started fidgeting. I knew what her problem was, but I was going to make her ask. It didn’t take her long.
“Umm Sir, can your girl go to the bathroom please?”
“Yes she may,” I answered, but didn’t release her. Instead I got up pulling my boxers back on, making like I was leaving the room.
“Ummm Master?”
“Yes?”
“Your girl is stuck,” she pulled on the restraints to prove her point.
“So she is. I like her that way.”
She was quiet as I set about picking up my clothes from last night, placing hers on the chair. Her eyes never left me, and as I walked back to the door like I was going to leave, her voice became slightly panicky. “Master may your girl go, please?”
“I said she could.” She was confused and frustrated, and I was waiting for her to get the point all on her own. I was opening my drawers removing what I would need to take along today, and picking out the clothes I would wear.
“Master can this girl use the bathroom now. Please?”
I smiled at her, walking over to her. “Yes, you should have been that specific before, clear, precise questions. Do you understand?”
“Yes Sir,” she answered while I released her restrained wrist from the bed.
“Hurry up little one.” I grinned as I watched her run to the bathroom. She didn’t bother to shut the door and all I heard was a loud “Ahhh…” making me chuckle.
Coming out of the bathroom, she presented herself to me, and I removed the rope from around her wrist. It was braided nylon, there was no chafing or marks, but I rubbed the ointment in telling her that we would go have some coffee before showering to let it penetrate into the skin. I gave her one of my t-shirts to put on, thinking that I needed to have her bring at least a robe or some pajamas in here, so she has something. Although she does look sexy wearing only my shirt.
Down in the kitchen there was no reason to make a big breakfast, because we would be having brunch at my parent’s house. Instead, I requested a bagel with cream cheese and Bella made herself toast with jam. Once she was sitting we needed to talk about last night.
“Isabella, tell me your thoughts on the club.”
She took a drink of her coffee before answering. “Once I was comfortable I could relax and I enjoyed it. Are there always demonstrations?”
“Yes, usually.”
“Can they be anything? Is there a schedule so you know what is happening where and when?”
I sat back swallowing a bite of my bagel thinking about her questions. “In order to do a demonstration, you need to sign up for a time slot, and give a brief description of your… performance. So in a sense yes, there is a schedule, like I knew that the bondage demonstration would be in room B last night. That was another reason I wanted to go. I wanted you to see it, since you expressed interest in that area.”
Bella smiled as I continued to answer her questions. “On the stage there is no penetration allowed of any kind and no edge play permitted. Other than that, anything goes.”
She was still quiet, drinking her coffee. “Why was that Felix so interested in my collar?”
I finished my coffee, handing her the cup to refill. I watched her as I talked, “Felix made it, he owns a jewelry shop and makes custom pieces.”
“Oh,” she said putting the pot back on the warmer. She handed me the cup.
“I’m sorry about Tanya,” I apologized.
“It’s not your fault, and Rose sort of warned me,”she shrugged.
What? Warned her about what? I didn’t need to ask as she just continued on with her thought. “Rose told me I was walking into the lion’s den. Basically, she said that there are people who play and that they would try to mess with me to get to you.”
“When did she say this?” I wasn’t upset, I just didn’t know that Rose and Bella were that close that Rose felt the need to warn her about anything.
“Last night, in the bathroom.”
“Oh, was that her technicality?”
Bella smirked and then her face grew serious as she drew her lip between her teeth.
“What’s the matter?”
“I don’t want to get Rose into trouble.”
I chuckled, “Don’t worry about Rose, I won’t say anything. Now tell me your thoughts on the clamp.”
She made a face.
“You didn’t like it?”
Bella shook her head. “Not that I didn’t like it. It just became really …intense. It was getting harder to cope with, and I was starting to have a hard time ignoring it. Then when you took it off, oh my, that was something else. Then I was so sensitive, and every little touch sent shocks through me, it was kind of amazing.”
“Would you do it again?” I asked as I smiled at her.
She didn’t even think about it, she just answered, “Yes, I would,” making me grin, that’s my girl.
“How did you sleep with the restraints?”
She smiled taking a drink, “Surprisingly well, I didn’t even know that I had them on until I woke up. And they didn’t bother me until I had to go to the bathroom and couldn’t move. Which was not very nice by the way,” she glared at me.
I glared right back, “Lower your eyes Isabella. I answered your question as you asked it; you have to be very direct and precise with your questions. I’m not a mind reader, so don’t assume I know what you mean.”
I did know exactly what she meant, but I wanted her to understand that I expect exactness from her, not vagueness.
“Yes Master.”
I put my hand under her chin. “Look at me Isabella,” her eyes came up to meet mine. “I want to talk to you about today. My parents know about our relationship; however they don’t want it flaunted in front of them. So we can either cut our usual time short, or we can modify our approach.”
“Modify?”
“Yes well, obviously you would not call me Master or Sir. In fact you shouldn’t address me at all unless necessary. When you present yourself, don’t make it obvious, and talk in the first person.”
“Is that what you usually do?”
“In public yes, I’ve never taken anyone to my parents so, this is new to me too.”
Bella nodded, I could see her thinking, but she didn’t say anything.
After a minute I just decided for her. “I think it might be best if we cut our time short, since we haven’t been in public yet. Maybe we should not use my parents as a practice run.”
“I was thinking the same thing; I don’t want to mess up.”
“Ok then, once we leave the house…” I looked at the clock - 8:40 “…which is in an hour, our …usual will be over for the weekend.”
“It’s kind of sad to have it go away.” She got a glum look on her face.
“It will be back... So I can assume the weekend was acceptable to you?” I smiled at her.
“Yes it was very acceptable.” She beamed at me.
That was good to know, I wasn’t too tough on her. But I did enforce my rules, and she discovered more about what is expected of her. I ascertained more of her personality and physical responses along with a starting point for her limits, not too bad for a first weekend.
We showered and dressed. Today is a casual affair so I wore jeans and a white polo shirt with my black Nikes. Bella had on khaki Capri’s with a brown silk shirt and heeled sandals. I gave her my swimming items to place in the bag with hers along with the wrapped gift. We were ready to go and Seth was on his leash, before walking out the door, I took ahold of Bella kissing her soundly.
“You pleased me very much this weekend Isabella.”
“Thank you Master,” she smiled confidently.
We stood there in the doorway staring in each other’s eyes. She was right it is sad to let it go. With a deep sigh, I took her hand, “come on let’s go.”
The sun was shining, it was a beautiful day and if we had time it would have been nice to walk Seth home and take the bike. As it was we were running close on time. Bella quickly took the dog into her house, and I stopped to get a bouquet of flowers, finally we got to the ferry and it was just starting to load. Once aboard we got out of the car and found Emmet and Rose by the railing.
“Made it, huh? Thought I was going to have to tell mom you would be late.” Emmet had stopped for coffee and was handing it to us
“No, it took longer at the florist then I thought.” Bella thanked him for her coffee and started talking with Rose. Emmet asked what happened last night with Tanya and I gave him a quick rundown, watching Bella as I spoke. I could tell she was half listening- half talking to Rose.
I placed my arm across her chest, drawing her back against my body.
“So, what did you decide about next weekend?” I could feel her stiffen in my arms at Emmet’s question.
I glanced down at her telling Emmet that I would let him know.
Once we were back in the car, waiting to disembark I placed my hand on her knee giving a small squeeze.
“You alright babe?”
“Yes I’m fine, why do you ask?” Bella looked at me smiling.
“You seemed tense when Emmet mentioned next weekend,” I shrugged but continued to press, “You don’t want to go?”
Bella put her hand on top of mine. “It’s not that I don’t want to, it’s just…”
“Just what?”
She sighed, “What about Seth and…”
The cars started to move and because we were one of the last ones on, we were the first to get off.
“Bella we can take Seth, that’s not a problem or if you would rather not, can’t Leah and Jacob keep him? Is that your greatest worry-the dog?”
“I’m not worried Edward.”
I glanced at her quickly as I drove, she definitely had something on her mind, I just had to figure out a way to get it out of her. Talk about frustrating. “Bella talk to me, what’s got your panties in a twist?”
Turning off the road onto the driveway, I was getting impatient. “Isabella?”
Her eyes met my sideward glance “Edward, can we talk about this later? Please?”
I wasn’t happy about it, but I nodded as we pulled to the end of the driveway and into the circular carport in front of the house.
BPOV
Edward turned left directly after the boat house that Peggy would be living in. The driveway was lengthy and surrounded by trees that seemed to go on forever. Finally, the car went around a curve and the trees separated allowing me to see the house. Perhaps house was an understatement; this was more like a mini castle. The home was stately, standing two stories tall and composed entirely of brick. The main entrance was at the end of a wide flagstone walkway with shrubs lining both sides all the way up to the house. On each side of the entry way symmetrical wings jetted out. Making the home look grand and dignified; to put it simply it was spectacular.
“Wow!” It was all I could say.
“Do you like it?”
I nodded, “It’s beautiful, and you grew up here?”
Edward was opening his door; “Yeah, I’ll show you where my mother used to measure us,” he chuckled then walked around to open my door.
Rose and Emmet had pulled in next to us, and as I took the black bag out of the car Edward took ahold of my hand and led me towards the house. The arched front door was made of inlaid glass and stood at least ten feet tall, opening to a foyer with another glass door that opened into the main area. The home seemed to be done in whites and creams. Ornate arch french doors were on both sides of the main entrance hall, with a prominent wide curved staircase directly in front.
Esme came to greet us kissing each of her sons and Rose before turning to me with a warm hug.
“Bella it is so nice to see you again, I’m so glad you could join us.”
“Thank you for inviting me. Your home is beautiful.” I smiled. It was better than beautiful but that was the only word I could think of at the moment.
“Thank you dear, Edward; show Bella around, so she knows where everything is.”
Edward took my bag, placing it by the stairs and then took my hand for the tour. Each room on the main floor opened into another with the same arched french doors. The rooms towards the back of the house opened onto the covered patio that looked out over the back courtyard. Everyone else was down there surrounding a large stoned hearth. Alice looked up and waved, I smiled waving back then looked past the gardens to the view of the water and the skyline of Seattle.
“Edward, this is amazing, it’s like straight out of a fairytale,” I murmured, because I just could not get over the awe of what I was seeing.
He grinned taking my hand, “This is my mother’s favorite spot.”
As I looked around at the plush cushions on the natural wicker furniture, it looked very comfortable and tranquil.
“I can see why,” I realized I was still whispering, and after clearing my throat I asked, “How do you get down in the courtyard?”
“I’ll show you, let’s finish the tour first”
Upstairs the right wing contained the master suite complete with his and her dressing rooms that were each bigger than my bedroom. There was also the laundry room and bathroom. On the left wing were four bedrooms, Edward’s was the second one down the hallway. He opened the door showing me the room where he spent his childhood. It was painted a muted blue with white woodwork. Coordinating bedding and drapes finished off the décor. Trophies for baseball and basketball lined a shelf over a student’s desk. A wooden entertainment center held a TV, video games and stereo system, the wall contained sports memorabilia and Seahawk posters.
Edward took my hand leading me over to the bed. He sat down, pulling me into his lap, gathering my hair; moving it all to one side, so he could rest his chin on my shoulder. “I can see your brain working, what are you thinking?”
I looked around the room “Right now I’m thinking you really like sports.”
“Yes I do,” he chuckled. Edward kissed my cheek. “Now let’s talk, tell me your concerns for next weekend, and I don’t want to hear about the dog.”
“It’s not a concern Edward; it’s more of an …observation.”
Edward didn’t say anything; he just waited for me to finish my thought. “Did you look at my calendar?”
He shook his head, “No, is there something next week?”
My hands held his playing with his fingers “No…not next week, but..,”
He sighed in exasperation taking my hands and swinging me so that I straddled his thighs.
“Isabella look at me.”
My eyes met his.
“I can be very patient, but I am not in the habit of having to work so hard to get the information that I request. I’m going to ask you one more time to tell me your concerns. Now.”
“I told you it’s not a concern, it’s an observation. Next weekend we have nothing but the following two we are busy.” He looked at me still not getting it. I furrowed my brow, looking down at his chest “I was just wondering when…if we aren’t home when...” I sighed and then just spit it out “When will we have our… usual?”
To my surprise he chuckled, “One weekend and you’re spoiled already.”
He thinks I’m spoiled? James always said I was spoiled. I could feel the hurt and the tears well in my eyes, and I tried to blink them away, trying to rid myself of the memories.
“Why the tears Isabella?” Edward’s hand was on my chin, lifting my head while his other hand wiped away the stray tear.
I sniffled not trusting my voice. He kept looking in my eyes waiting. I took a deep breath and then muttered, “You think I’m spoiled too?”
Edward’s eyes locked on mine and I could see perception dawn in them, then his arms wrapped tightly around me his hands running down the length of my hair. “No baby, poor choice of words. I don’t think you’re spoiled. What I meant was, one weekend of… the usual…” I could feel his grin against my skin, “… and now you don’t want to be without it.”
“Is that a bad thing?” I whispered softly, feeling kind of stupid for letting mere words wound me to the point of tears.
“No baby I would say that is a good thing.”
Edward’s eyes once again locked with mine for a few seconds before he kissed me. Just as the kiss was starting to make my insides smolder there was a knock at the door.
“You guys in there?” Alice’s voice broke through our building passion.
He smirked at me, “Yes Alice.”
“I’m coming in” The door burst open before I could get up off his lap. She stood eyeing us, making me feel self-conscious under her glare. “Emmet wants to eat and mom said not until you two come out, so wrap it up and let’s go.”
“You know, for someone so little you sure can be annoying.” I giggled at Alice’s mock hurt.
“Tell them we will be right down.”
Alice gave us a sideways glare exhaling in a huff, “Don’t make me come back up here,” she said in her best mommy voice.
“Yes ma’am,” Edward said, and I stifled a giggle as she left leaving the door wide open. He spun me to look at him, lightly touching my chin to make me look at him. “You alright?” I smiled but didn’t answer; he kissed my forehead. “We’ll finish this discussion later, right now we better get down there. The last thing we want is for Alice to have to come back up here.”
“She might spank us,” I said with bogus worry in my voice.
“That’s just too weird,” Edward replied, laughing.
I followed him back down the stairs retrieving my bag and purse. Edward picked up the flowers he brought guiding me to the lower level. Directly across the atrium was another tall arched doorway. He gestured to the left, “That’s the pool area,” and then to the right, “The game room and theater are that way. I’ll show you those after Emmet eats.” I snickered following him outside.
The spacious curved patio was made of the same flagstone that was out front. Wicker furniture set in various seating arrangements filled most of the space. Large free standing umbrellas provided shade over the groupings. To the far left stood the hearth that I had admired from the balcony, standing ten feet tall and least twice as wide. Seating arrangements were positioned in front of it; I found myself hoping that they would light a fire this evening so I would have a reason to sit there.
“It’s about freaking time, what the hell took you so long?”
“I was giving Bella a tour, sorry to interrupt your feeding schedule Emmet”
Jasper said hello as Alice hugged me, “Sorry I didn’t say hi upstairs, but Emmet was getting impatient.”
“That’s ok,” I said hugging her back.
Edward asked for the gift, handing it to his mother with a kiss on the cheek. “Happy Mother’s Day”
“Thank you darling.” She opened her gift while I said hello to Carlisle, who was sitting beside an older woman with thick silver hair.
Edward bent down kissing her cheek, “Hi grams, Happy Mother’s Day.” He placed the flowers on her lap.
“Thank you Edward, they are beautiful. Now, tell me who this lovely young woman is standing next to you.”
“Isabella Swan, this is my Grandma Cullen”
I took her hand, “It’s very nice to meet you.”
“As you dear, sit and talk to me.” I took the seat between her and Esme, who was gushing over the silver locket that contained a picture of her children that was taken when they were much younger. She got up to show Carlisle having him put it on her.
Edward sat in the chair next to his father and once the locket was in place Esme hugged her son thanking him again.
His grandmother turned her attention to me. “Tell me dear, how you two meet?”
This is one of those times where I had to think quickly. I didn’t imagine she would appreciate that I met him at a sex club, but I didn’t want to lie either. I looked to Edward for some help; he just smirked at me raising his eyebrows waiting for my answer.
“Well, actually he ran into me while I was walking in a door,” glancing over at him, he smiled. “He almost knocked me over.”
She beamed at me, and then peeked at Edward, “That’s how I met my husband.” I smiled at her as she went on reminiscing, “I was walking into Macy’s in New York, he held the door for me. Then he secretly followed me around until finally he got up enough nerve to ask me for coffee. We went to the food court and had coffee and shared an Ice Cream. We were married three months later.”
“Gramps stalked you, and you married him.” I stifled my amusement at Edward’s comment.
“Oh yes Edward, I knew when our hands touched - accidentally of course - in the doorway, that he was the one. I could feel the shock.” She looked at me, “I’m just glad he didn’t follow me into the ladies wear.” I giggled along with her. I could see Edward in my periphery lean forward, when I glanced at him, his eyes were down and he looked like he was engrossed in thought.
EPOV
I had heard that story many times, how they met at Macy’s. I don’t ever remember her saying anything about a shock. What kind of shock? Was it a one time thing or was it always there? They were giggling- something about ladies wear. My mother took her seat beside Bella.
“You alright Edward?” My mom asked in apprehension.
I raised my eyes, “Yes, I’m fine.”
Bella was watching me from the corner of her eye; I gave her a small smile trying to disguise my uneasiness.
“Edward, there is a few openings next spring in the residency program, you could put in your application early and take the refresher courses.”
I sighed, it’s not that my father bothered me about my wasted education, but he brings it up every now and then.
“I’ll think about it dad.”
“Well don’t think too long. If you want to apply, you should get it in by the middle of June.”
“Ok…Now if you all will excuse us, I’m starving.” I put my hand out for Bella to take, once her hand was in mine, that tingle went straight through my body. I stood for a second staring at our joined hands; Bella gave mine a little squeeze bringing me back to reality. When I looked up, I caught a grin on my grams face, she knew.
The food was set up in the shade under the balcony. Dad had ordered the typical brunch fare, French toast, Quiche, salads, fruit, muffins, scones, coffee and juice. I really was hungry so I filled my plate. Bella on the other hand, ate like a bird as usual. I didn’t say anything, as long as she followed her food plan, I would let it go.
Once we were seated, the women showed what they had gotten for mother’s day. Alice had two new charms for her bracelet from her children, and a full day spa treatment from Jasper. Rose was given the acupressure bracelet that Bella had talked about yesterday, and new earrings. My father was taking my mother out tomorrow night for dinner and the theater and they were going to stay overnight at the Fairmont Hotel.
Bella admired all the gifts, but as I talked with the men I couldn’t help but notice the small glimmer of sadness in her eyes. It brought to mind what Jacob had said, ‘she will be lucky if she can ever have children’ I wondered if the cause of her distress was that fact, or was she thinking of her own mother. Or maybe I was reading too much into it and she just had to burp. That last thought made me smile.
“Yo, earth to Edward,” Jasper brought me out of my contemplation.
“What? Sorry I was thinking” I tried to focus.
“Was it about the cabin next weekend?”
“Would you shut the fuck up about next weekend.” I said fixing Emmet with a stare
“Edward!” my mother admonished my language.
“Sorry Mom,” I said, as Vinny announced that Uncle Eddie said a bad word.
Emmet couldn’t help but chime in, “Yeah little Eddie, watch what you spit out.”
Bella went into a fit of giggles; she looked at me and laughed harder. I knew what she was fucking laughing at, her pet name for my dick. I tried to fix her with a stare, but it wasn’t working and I ended up chuckling right along with her.
“What’s so fucking funny?”
“Emmet!” my mother was more annoyed.
“That’s it, come on kids lets go swimming,” Alice announced while Emmet apologized for his cursing.
“I swear I raised these boys right.”
Dad and Jasper took the dishes and utensils into the downstairs kitchenette while Emmet and I broke down the tables putting them and the warming trays away. When we got into the pool area, the women were already changed and conjugating in the far corner. Alice was in the pool, holding Mia in some blowup chair. Rose and Bella were sitting on the edge with their feet in the water, while mom and grams sat half submerged on the steps watching Vinny wow them with his back flips.
“Hey! Uncle Emmet, Uncle Eddie, watch this”
He ran from the other side, sprung off the end, flipped once and hit the water with a huge splash.
“That was cool dude.” I agreed with Emmet as he swam back to the edge to do it again. Rose told Emmet that his suit was in the changing room. Bella stood up she was wearing a short little pink and white dress, and I assumed her swimming suit was underneath.
“I have your suit over here,” she walked over to a lounge chair handing it to me.
“Thanks babe,” I said as I flung it over my shoulder.
“Your welcome just put your clothes in the bag when you’re done.”
I smirked at her “Don’t you want to help me?” I leaned close so I could whisper in her ear, “You could shake hands with Little Eddie.”
She gasped and then giggled, I chuckled pulling her to me by her hips. “I couldn’t help it Edward, it was too funny.”
I kissed her softly talking against her lips, “You might just pay for that one.”
Bella blushed the most beautiful shade of pink, looked up at me innocently through her lashes, releasing her bottom lip from her teeth, “Promises, Promises,” she said with raised eyebrows and a mischievous grin. Fuck, the growl was released without my permission as I held her face in my hands while I kissed her.
It took every ounce of strength I had to keep the kiss from going too far. Somewhere in the recesses of my mind I remembered where I was, and as I pulled away I reminded her, “I never break a promise Isabella.” She did that eyebrow thing again, biting her lip and blushing. I sighed, “You’re killing me woman.”
When I looked over I became aware that our exchange had become the focal point of the room. Their expressions raged from shock, fascination, delight, and poor Vinny was wrinkling his nose and shaking his head like he smelled something foul. I just smiled at them, leaving Bella there while I went to change.
When I came out, Jasper was rounding the kids up to put down for their naps and grams was going to lie down as well. Alice went into the kitchen with mom to make some drinks while Bella and Rose sat in the lounge chair laughing about some cat woman. Once everyone was back in the pool area, Bella took off that dress thing she had on revealing the pink two pieces underneath, before getting in the water.
Emmet wanted to play water volleyball, and Alice insisted that the teams didn’t contain any couples. Bella was on the other team with mom, Emmet and Jasper. She played like a girl, but she seemed to be having a good time. I got slightly pissed when she and Jasper were going for the ball at the same time tangling themselves up and going under the water. They came up laughing and Emmet informed them that the object of the game was to get the ball over the net.
She sort of redeemed herself when mom hit the ball and Bella tapped it over to Alice who completely missed it, earning a team high five. Needless to say their team won, making dad and I call for a rematch.
They won the second game too putting an end to the competition.
The girls refilled their drinks and dad brought us all a beer. Bella was sitting on the edge of the pool; I went over standing between her legs, taking her hands so they wrapped around my chest pulling her into the water with me. Alice was sitting on Jaspers lap on the steps and Emmet held Rose against his chest with her legs floating in front of her. While mom and dad sat on the edge with their legs in the water. It was nice to have Bella with me; I was always alone while my family sat together as couples.
“Ok, so Tuesday mom is going to come to my house, before I take Vinny to school. Do you want to meet at my house or somewhere else?” Alice wanted to get her schedule down and was asking Rose and Bella.
“You know Alice, I was thinking after lunch I could take Mia home for her nap; and then if you’re not done I could get Vinny from school for you,” my mother offered.
“Are you sure?”
Mom beamed wide at my dad. “I’m hoping to be very tired after tomorrow night.”
That comment earned a collective, “Ah gross!”
Mom laughed as she stood up. “Help me bring out the snacks dear,” dad got up and followed her.
I took a hold of Bella’s legs under the water wrapping them around my waist, letting my hand skim over thighs while Alice thought out loud. “Plan to meet at my house at ten, Mom can take Mia in her car, that way she has the seat and we can all go together.”
Bella spoke up, “That’s ok, but I have yoga at three, so I need to be back close to two.”
“Can’t you skip yoga?”
“No, I can’t”
Alice pouted and was pleading with her eyes. Bella whispered in my ear, “Tell her I can’t.”
I smirked, “She can’t miss yoga.”
Alice’s face was full of scorn, “You mean I have to rearrange a whole day because of your kinky sex stuff?”
“Alice!” I admonished her while Emmet and Jasper laughed; Bella buried her head in my neck.
“Alright, alright, sorry....” Alice huffed. “Could you take an early morning class?”
I felt her shrug on my back, “Only thing is I go with Leah.”
“Is Leah still doing yoga?” Rose was curious.
“Yeah, she thinks her ass is big,” Bella explained.
“Am I going to get a big ass?” No one had a chance to answer Rose because Emmet interjected, “That’s ok baby, it’s just a bigger target,” he leaned down kissing his wife’s cheek. “Which reminds me, did you tell little Bella, how big my dick was?”
Bella and Rose responded with a resounding, “No!” while Alice went further, “No one cares how big your dick is.”
Rose giggled, “Well, I wouldn’t go that far.” Bella held me tighter giggling in my neck.
“How the hell did we start talking about Emmet’s dick?” Jasper asked confused.
I answered, “I don’t know, but can we not do it anymore?”
“Why don’t you see if Leah wants to come…?” Alice questioned
“All women want to come, ask little Bella, she had to write…”
Bella gasped and before I knew what she was doing, she jumped on Emmet’s back pulling him down into the water, taking Rose along, when he came back up, Rose grabbed his legs and Bella pushed him back under again. After he resurfaced Bella had him in a head lock, “Don’t you talk about my orgasm anymore!” She snarled in his ear, surprising me and making everyone else chuckle.
“Alright, alright, dude control your woman here!”
Mom and dad came back in carrying trays, “Emmet would you leave Bella alone?” mom warned.
“Would I leave Bella alone? She attacked me!”
“I’m sure you deserved it,” dad said knowingly, as Bella took her spot back on me squeezing me around the neck.
“It’s all your fault, you did it on purpose,” she whispered in my ear.
I laughed pulling her head forward for a kiss.
“Damn dude, if I was you, I wouldn’t piss her off.” I grinned at him.
Once everyone stopped laughing, Alice wanted to know if Leah would want to go and if they could change their class time. Bella said she would ask, but if not, then she had to be back at Alice’s house by two. With that settled, we got out of the pool, just as Vinny came back down.
Mom had brought out the salads from earlier along with cheese, crackers, shrimp and pâté, which I was going to make Bella try. The girls pulled the lounge chairs closer to the pool and sat there eating and talking, I sat on the side of Bella’s chair placing the cracker in front of her mouth, and she wriggled her nose, waving it away.
“Just try it” I coaxed, but she shook her head.
“Isabella, try it…,” I leaned over to whisper in her ear, “…maybe you’ll get a reward.”
She smiled brightly, opening her mouth. I watched her face as she chewed, she didn’t show any sign of distaste, “See, it’s not so bad.”
“It’s not so good either.” She said, making me chuckle while she took a long drink. Perhaps that will be one of the things I force her to eat. It won’t hurt her; but it will further instill into her a sense of being owned.
The rest of the afternoon was spent lounging around, talking and laughing with my family. Around six dad started the grill, taking orders for how people wanted their stakes cooked. Half an hour later we were gathered around the patio tables to eat. Dad stood to make a toast:
“Mom, you have always been a rock to me. Esme, thank you for loving me and giving me three wonderful children, and to my children, thank you for the grandchildren. Those that are here and those that are yet to come, may they give you as much joy as mine have given to me. To all mothers…”
We all agreed with a “Salute!”
Dad sat back down after kissing gram on the cheek and then mom. It’s heartwarming that after thirty-two years of marriage they still love each other very deeply. Talk around the table centered on what activity Alice had planned for the evening, but she was tight lipped and wouldn’t tell. Apparently Jasper didn’t know, or else he was sworn to secrecy.
“Bella, Carlisle was telling me about the walk-a-thon. Is that the only fund raiser the center does?”
She swallowed before answering mom, “No, they do three major fundraisers, the walk-a-thon, a holiday gala and auction, and then a dress sale.”
“What’s a dress sale?” Grams asked.
“Umm…dresses get donated, either new from stores or hardly worn from people, and in March we sell them for twenty-dollars each, just in time for proms. People travel hours to come to it. The dress sale actually is our best money maker.”
“I think I saw that advertised at Neiman Marcus,” Alice commented.
“It’s possible; I don’t know where they advertise. I don’t do fund raising, I’ll go and work, but someone else is in charge of that.”
“How many volunteers are there Bella?” Jasper surprised me with his question.
Bella thought for a second, “In total, I don’t know seventy-five maybe eighty? There are eight central committee heads, and then the people who work on those specific committees.”
Grams, who was sitting next to Bella took her hand, “And what do you do dear?”
Dad spoke up before she could answer, “Bella does counseling, and placement. Which she is very good at I might add.”
Bella looked to my dad, and they seemed to share a common memory. I knew it was irrational, but it pissed me the fuck off. I figured I better calm down so I asked a question, because honestly I didn’t know much about the center and I was curious.
“What other committees are there?”
Bella took a drink then sighed, I could see her thinking. I knew she hated being the center of attention, but I also knew that the center was very important to her. She started counting them off on her fingers “Well the hot-line, that’s open twenty-four hours, Court, someone to go to court to provide support, there’s a group who organizes all the outside agencies, which I’m sure is who contacted Carlisle.” Dad nodded “umm…let’s see then there is the shopping crew, they get the supplies that are needed, the cleaning crew, and the clothing crew. I think that’s it.”
“What does the clothing crew do?” Alice asked.
“They sort and wash all the donated clothing.”
“You take donated clothing?”
Bella nodded to Rose and then responded, “Yes, any and all. These women and their children come with nothing. No money, food, clothes. They’re scared; most don’t even know how to balance a check book. They are so beaten down, not just with bruises but their self-esteem.”
“What do you do with them?” grams wanted to know.
“We hide them,” Bella said mater-of-factly. “We hold their hand, give them support, medical treatment, and empower them with basic skills, help them find a job and a safe place to live. So they can go out into the world strong, unafraid and survive.”
Bella had tears in her eyes; I wrapped my arm around her shoulder, kissing her hair. When I looked up Rose wiped a tear away, as well as my mother.
“You know in my day, it was all hush, hush and kept quiet; but now with the laws it should be easier for women to get help and be safe.”
“Unfortunately that’s not the case. Women are still treated as second class citizens, and a man will get more jail time for beating his dog then for beating his wife or child. The only recourse a woman has is to get a PFA- protection from abuse order- and all that does is causes the man more legal problems after he has broken it. If, she can prove it, he can terrorize her, stalk her, and threaten her all he wants. Because unless she can prove it’s him, there is nothing anyone can do about it. And fear is the abusers number one weapon. It’s what keeps women from seeking help or getting better. That keeps him in control, and they get very mad when their control starts to slip. We’ve had volunteers threatened, windows broken, tires slashed, yeah they get really mad.”
“And you do this because…?” Grams wasn’t being nosey, she just was trying to understand.
Bella was quiet, contemplating her answer, finally whispering, “Someone has to.”
I squeezed her leg letting her know that I was there.
“Can anyone go in the walk-a-thon?”
Dad answered Rose, “Yes, I was hoping that maybe we could make it a family outing. I’ll bring home some forms for you.”
Finally Bella smiled, “The more the merrier.”
The dinner conversation changed to a more pleasant talk about what show mom and dad were seeing tomorrow, along with plans concerning next weekend, which I still hadn’t settled with Bella. I figured we would be going, it was just the details that had to be worked out.
The women sat around the fire in the hearth relaxing, while we men cleaned up the dishes and brought out desert. Dad had two different cakes; one was a rich chocolate with dark chocolate icing and chocolate shavings on top. The other was a dark chocolate three layer cake with white icing and walnuts.
“I never knew women liked chocolate so much,” I pondered outloud.
The three of them looked at me, like I just said the world was flat.
“Dude, are you serious?” I nodded at Emmet.
“To a woman, chocolate is like another food group.” my father laughed at Jaspers comment.
“Wait until it’s…that time of the month. Rosie would hoard the shit in her purse.”
“What?” Bella was going to hoard chocolate and eat it all the time?
Emmet tried to explain, “They can’t help it Edward, it’s like a chemical imbalance in their brain or something. If they don’t get it, well let’s put it this way, your little pussy cat is going to turn into a furious lion,” they all laughed at my bewildered expression. Emmet went on asking “How do you not know this?”
Jasper put his hand on my shoulder, “In Edwards’s defense, he’s really never dealt with the day to day contact of a woman. Their emotional changes, the PMS…”
“The changing their mind every five minutes,” Dad said handing me the coffee café.
“Oh and my personal favorite: ‘Does this make me look fat?” Emmet said turning to show us his butt, while they all laughed.
I just stood there taking this all in, “Are you shitting me?” that made them laugh even more.
Each of us had something to carry and we were walking out the patio door when it hit me “Wait, how did you answer the fat question?”
All three men stopped walking in their tracks, simultaneously answering “No!”
Emmet looked me in the eye with a very serious expression. “You always say, ‘No, you look fantastic baby’.” Jasper and dad nodded in agreement. As we started towards the women I looked at Bella and could not imagine her doing the things they were talking about. But apparently all women did this stuff, even my mother? No, they had to be wrong.
I cut a small piece of each cake for Bella and me to share along with our coffees. While we were sitting there Alice explained what we were going to be doing tonight. Charades, boys against the girls, best two out of three the losing team has to sing a Karaoke song of the winning teams choosing. She gave us time while she and Jasper put the kids to bed to decide what song we would choose, writing it down for gram who was going to be the time keeper and judge. It seems that grams was in on this because to keep it fair, she was the one who came up with the phrases we were going to act out.
The fire was lit in the hearth; dad had the patio lights on so we could see. It had come down to the third round. First team to act out all six phrases wins. We needed the last one, and from what I could tell the women were on their fifth. Emmett was acting ours out; we already knew it was a movie. He was holding his hands together like he was praying – one of the girls yelled Fried Green Tomatoes – and Alice stood to do the last phrase – I turned my attention back to Emmett.
Now he is pointing up…
“Prayer up”
“Praying halo”
Then he was making a cross with his finger…
“Jesus”
He started waving his hand encouraging us for more…
“Jesus”
“Savior”
“God!” Jasper yelled and Emmett started nodding
The women were yelling out words.
Emmett pointed to dad…
“God-dad”
“God-husband”
“God-Father”
The Three of us yelled, “The God father!!”
“Yes!” Emmett fist pumped in the air.
The women all moaned, “aww…what was it Alice?”
My sister sounded dejected, “Black tie event.”
“Damn,” Rose muttered.
“Alice, why were you holding your hair?”
“It’s black Bella!”
They broke out in fits of giggles.
“Couldn’t you guess that Bella?” My mom asked through her laughter.
Bella shook her head laughing, “No!”
Rose was still laughing, “Why didn’t you point to your shoes?”
“Because then you bitches would have been saying toes and feet, you couldn’t even get it from my hair!” Alice complained.
“But your hair isn’t black.” Bella stated, blinking at Alice.
“It’s close enough Bella, Mom isn’t my hair black?” Alice turned to Mom for support while everyone began laughing again.
“No, honey it’s not.” My mother was laughing just as hard.
My father cleared his throat loudly, four pair of eyes turned to look at him.
“You women lost; mom give them their song.”
Grams handed my mom the folded paper, she took it with a smile on her face.
Mom opened it up and then looked at dad, “You’ve got to be kidding?”
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