Chapter 6

BPOV

When we left the park, I was feeling a lot better about going over to Alice and Jasper’s. I didn’t get to talk to Rose very much on Thursday night, and I had not met Esme at all. But sitting at the park, they were both very nice and friendly. Vinny is so cute, articulate and outgoing. His comment about me being pretty caught me off guard. But I was even more surprised that Emmet would suggest that Edward and I had a relationship. Is that what we had? I certainly didn’t want to jump to conclusions. I mean really we haven’t even had coffee yet.

Edward seemed distracted at the park. Now he is friendly, holding my hand and being attentive. I’m not sure exactly what he’s thinking and I don’t want to come off like some clingy psycho-bitch. I’m not expecting moon light and roses, to tell the truth, I’m not expecting anything. I guess that’s why Emmet’s statement shocked me so.

I gave Edward a quick tour of my house. It’s only a small two bedroom, but I like it here. The house has lots of windows, and the natural light makes the rooms bright. I spent my whole life with curtains closed. At Charlie’s because when he worked nights he slept during the day. When I was with James it was a necessity, so no one saw. I did have the hidden blinds in all the windows, so I could shut them at night.

He was curious about my Bath fetish, as we walked to his home, I recounted the story. As I sat on his couch crying, I felt weak and pathetic. I didn’t talk about what happened to me with anyone except my therapist; it is difficult to trust someone. Edward said I had to trust him, and there was a big part of me that really wanted to. I closed myself off, it was easier that way. I wanted to trust him, to bond with someone beside my family, but I was afraid, and frankly I just didn’t know how to. Edward was kind and compassionate without showing pity. I hate when people look at me with pity.

After he left me to wash up, I heard him curse loudly. I thought maybe he was angry with me, for being spoiled goods. That he didn’t want to be bothered with all my baggage, which was going to take time to unpack. I thought I would give him an out. I didn’t really want to go home and be by myself, but I didn’t want him to feel obligated either. I could see him contemplating my question. After a few seconds he said he really wanted me to go. Internally I let out a big sigh.

As I was getting in his car, I spotted his Harley, it was hard to miss the dark burgundy and chrome beast sitting in the corner. It was beautiful and looked like it was built for comfort and long trips. Thick black leather studded seats. Studded saddle bags clung to each side of the rear fender. I beamed at it and Edward as I recalled ridding with Jake and Leah on the reservation. I told him how Jake had rebuilt the bikes from scrap, and about cliff diving. He didn’t seem too happy about that, of course neither was Charlie.

He pulled into the driveway of a large tan colored two story home, after opening my door, he retrieved the beer from the trunk. As we walked up to the front porch Alice was standing at the open door, tapping her foot. “What took you so long, Edward?” she questioned as she took my arm.

The foyer was large with a grand stair case that leads to the second floor. Edward tried to tell her that we got here as soon as we could, but she was too busy guiding me towards the kitchen, She told him to put the beer in the refrigerator

“I thought maybe you were trying to talk him out of bringing you” Alice said as we stepped onto the patio.

Jasper came over to greet me “Hello Bella, glad you could make it.”

“Thank you for inviting me, this is a great house.” before Jasper could reply Alice said she would give me tour later and asked Jasper if he could get the grill started, so she could feed the kids before their nap. He kissed her head, “On my way darling.” and he went into the house, while we greeted everyone else at the table.

Vinny looked up from his coloring ‘Hi Bella, where’s Uncle Eddie and Seth?” I waved at him “Uncle Eddie is in the house I’m sure he will be out soon, and Seth is at home.” Emmet started laughing “Oh little Bella, don’t let Edward hear you call him Eddie, on second thought...do it” and he laughed again. Once the hellos were out of the way, I sat down next to Rose. She was snickering and leaned over in my direction ‘Don’t call him Eddie, he hates it.”

“I won’t” I said with a giggle.

Carlisle and Esme told Emmet to stop teasing his brother and greeted me politely. Alice sat across from me handing me a drink. “Thank you” I took a sip margarita , one of my favorites. Edward followed Jasper out, greeting everyone, and picking up Mia, who really wanted her ‘Ankel Addie’ to hold her, and sat down next to me with a beer.

The conversation at the table was about some upcoming party that his parents were hosting. Rose leaned over and told me that it’s the annual fund raising for one of the charities they support. I was glad to hear that. I figured that with Carlisle being interested in the center he must be into giving back to the community.

Soon though their interest moved in my direction, I figured they would be interested in my life, what with Carlisle working at the center and me arriving with their son. It wasn’t that I minded or had anything to hide; I just didn’t like the attention. Emmet assumed I was pregnant when I married so young, most people did. I assured them I was not - I wasn’t a virgin either, but I didn’t tell them that - Esme seemed distraught over the fact that my mother had died so young. Her compassion was radiating from her. I really liked her.

Once we started eating, my nerves were kind of frazzled and I picked at my food. Edward must have sensed my discomfort, because he tried to sooth me with his gentle touch. I found I could relax in his presence, and that helped. He was the first man that touched me in an intimate way since James. I liked it, I felt relaxed and content around him. Edward asked me if I wanted him to change the subject. I looked in his eyes so kind and compassionate and whispered “Please” he smirked at me with a devilish grin and asked Alice what she was working on.

I was slightly relieved, until I learned that her project was for me. I was shocked when Rose said that I would need something to wear. Did they expect me to go out in public wearing revealing lingerie? I looked at Edward and then the two girls and it was plain on their face, yes they did. Edward must have read my hesitance and told me there was no harm in looking. He was right about that, I could always veto the design, Right?

Rose showed me to Alice’s studio while she put Mia in her room; I assumed that Esme was helping her, because she didn’t follow us. Alice’s studio was up another flight of steps in a converted attic space. The room was painted a soothing sky blue, with a tall A-frame ceiling. A large table filled with bolts of material dominated one wall. Along another she had three sewing machines on a table. Sketches were tacked to a cork board wall next to a black armoire in one corner. While the other corner house a bamboo screen. Behind me, the wall was composed of three large mirrors.


Esme and Alice were coming up the steps “Mom, your dress is in the closet, I pulled in the waist and added those crystals for you, try it on while you’re here, so that I know it’s right.” She just finished her sentence as she reached my side. Esme walked over to the mirrors pushed the middle one, opening it to a large closet
“That’s yours mom, in the white bag.” Esme took it off the rack

“Thank you dear” then headed behind the screen.

Alice pointed to the sketches “Rose after I talked to you Tuesday, I came up with those designs. See if it is what you had in mind.” Rose made her way over to look while Alice opened the doors on the armoire.

“Ok...Let’s see ...Bella, over here at my desk”
She opened the armoire, while Rose was looking at some sketches hanging on the wall. “Ahh...who’s this for?” Rose asked pointing to a sketch of a female frame with what appeared to be six ribbons cris-crossing her body from her shoulders to her crouch. Then the ribbons wrapped through her legs coming up her butt crack like a thong and tying in a bow. It was unusual that’s for sure.

“ Tanya...she wants to wrap herself up like a present for the Anniversary party”

“Who the hell is she hoping will unwrap her?” Rose said with a laugh. Alice snickered “You know damn well who” then she looked at me “It is so not going to happen.” Esme came out with a beautiful full length silver gown. Crystals covered the bodice above the empire waist.

“Thank God for that, I can’t stand that girl” Esme said with venom in her voice that shocked me. She walked over to the mirrors “What do you think ladies?”

“It looks great Esme” Rose said. Alice was showing her where she added crystals

“That dress looks fanatic on you Esme” I said with a smile. She nodded ‘Yep, you did a great job Alice the extra crystals was exactly what it needed’

‘Told you.” Alice replied smugly. Esme went back to change again, and Alice turned her attention to me.

“These are just rough sketches, like I said I need your measurements. I tried to take into account that you would be uncomfortable in anything that is to revealing” Well I was thankful for that. Pulling a sketch book out of the armoire she paged through. Rose was looking over my shoulder as Alice showed me the first sketch. Alice called it a Hobbler Corset Dress. I wasn’t exactly sure what that was. The sketch was pretty it was a skin tight sleeveless dress that went to above the knee. And it looked very form fitting.

Esme was standing next to me now. “Oh, very pretty.” she commented. “I would do it in a dark blue, which would look great against your skin tone”

Rose nodded ‘I think your right Esme, where are the rest of the sketches Alice?”

Alice was paging through the book explaining each piece and how they went together. When she got to one depicting the figure bent over wearing high waist crotch less panties and a cup less halter top Esme gasp “Oh My!...I think this is where I take my leave” she giggled ‘Thank you for lunch Alice, Rose you take care of yourself daring” She turned hugging me “Bella dear, I’m so glad to have met you. I’m sure I will be seeing you again.”
We said goodbye and went back to the sketches.

“Ok, what do you think?’ I shrugged “I like it, I’m not sure I need all the other pieces but I like the dress.”

“Good, now you need to get naked so I can get your measurements. Do you have a tie to pull your hair up?”

“Why do I have to be naked?” she sighed and Rose snickered “I need exact measurement, this is going to be so tight on you, you are going to have to take baby steps, or you are not going to be able to walk, you have to hobble, hence the name”


I pulled my hair up and started to undress, “Everything off”? I asked.

“Yes Bella, everything. You won’t be wearing anything under this.” She was making a dress designed so that I couldn’t even wear panties. She brought the tape measure over and started rattling off numbers to Rose.

“Ummm..Alice, how am I going to sit down in this thing?”

“You’re not” Rose said behind me. I turned my head “What?” she laughed.

“Keep still Bella” Alice warned “I’m going to put an investable zipper in the side from your waist down to the bottom. You’re going to need help closing the bottom part, because you wont be able to bend. So either have one of us do it for you, or Edward will have to” she giggled

“He’ll probably like that part”

“Your right he will” Rose laughed. I didn’t know what they meant and I didn’t get to ask because Alice announced that she was done.

She handed me a robe, and we went down stairs to put on our swimming suits. As we went along she pointed out the different rooms. There were four on the second floor. Vinny’s, Mia’s, the master and the last one was used for Jasper’s office. The second floor was set up like a square with the rooms jetting off the large landing.

Inside the Master I excused myself to use the bathroom, when I came out Rose and Alice were in the middle of changing. I pulled off the robe, getting on my suit. They were still talking about the design.

“Ah Alice, how much is this going to cost?” They are talking about blue Italian Leather, I figured it was going to be expensive, I just needed to know. Alice swung around with a look of hurt on her face.

“Bella, it’s a gift.”

“Alice I can’t accept that. At least let me pay for the materials.” she shook her head ‘That...is…out...of...the...question! Bella, when you wear this, I’m telling you I will have people knocking down my door to get one. A lot of them I will have to turn down or adjust the design.”

I looked at her in confusion “Not every woman can carry off that piece. For instance that wouldn’t look as good on Rose as it will on you.” I looked at the blond beauty trying to imagine anything that wouldn’t look good on her.

“She’s right about that” Rose said “I don’t have an hour glass figure; some of the pieces would work, but not the whole thing.” Rose came over and started tying the back of my suit. “I love this corset design on the back, you should pull your hair up, show it off.” she said as she lifted my hair off my shoulders gasping “Oh!”

My hand went instinctively to the back of my neck. It wasn’t that I was ashamed of the six inch scar. I just didn’t want to have to explain how it got there. The expression on my face, must have told the women, what my mouth just could not.

“Is that from him?” she asked in a quiet voice. I nodded. Alice was at my side “How bad did it get?”

I didn’t know what to say, I felt foolish. I knew that was irrational, I didn’t ask to be abused. “This is what happened when he found out I was accepted to Dartmouth. It doesn’t bother me too much, I just hate that what should have been a happy time in my life is marred by something ugly. That was night I left, I knew if I stayed I wouldn’t make it out alive. I just get so angry with myself. That’s usually why I don’t put all my hair up.”I said with no expression in my voice. Alice hugged me. “Your safe now and helping other woman, I admire you.”


I felt foolish. I work with women who are abused, hell I was a survivor and here I am hoping that Edward will show me some tough love. I shook my head laughing softly to myself at the absurdity of the situation

“You two must think I’m some kind of masochist...after living through the abuse...here I am actively seeking ...I don’t know what I’m seeking”

I trailed off looking out the window, trying to keep the tears from falling. Alice wrapped me in a hug, tighter then I thought possible from her small frame. ‘We don’t think that Bella, not at all.”

Rose rubbed her hand across her abdomen, pulling the top of her trunks down, I wasn’t sure what she was doing until she spoke ‘I always wear a high waist, Emmet has never been repulsed by them...but I hate that I have a constant reminder of that night.”

She looked at me with sad distant eyes. I knew that look; I saw it every day for years, looking back at me in the mirror. Now, I see it on the faces of the women and children at the center. When I studied her stomach, there were at least a dozen circular scars covering between her navel and pubic bone. I looked at her

“Bella, I know what you’re feeling, the contradiction that comes from what seems like two opposites. One hand you hate what was done to you and loath yourself for allowing it. On the other there is a need in you that can’t be suppressed, no matter how hard you try.”

She took a heavy breath letting it out slowly before continuing “I can only tell you that this life style has freed me. I’m not victim anymore. I’m a survivor, and I give myself freely to the man I love, and when we are doing a scene, I find peace at his feet. That doesn’t make me some sicko that wants to be slapped around or a door mat for him to abuse. It just makes me a woman, a submissive woman, who trusts her Dominate to shelter and protect her”

At that moment I felt so much love and friendship for these women. The tears spilled from my eyes. I wasn’t crying from the pain that comes from suffering. No, I was crying because finally someone understood what was inside me screaming to get loose.

Alice put her arm around me “Bella if the scar bothers you so much, let Jaz look at it, he might be able to help, but right now, let’s go relax before my little monsters wake up.” I felt at ease with these women, there was no judgment or pity, just friendship and acceptance.

Alice gave me a tour of the downstairs stopping in the kitchen to make another patch of Margaritas. While we were standing there Rose said “So Bella was at least the sex good?”

I looked at her “Rose?” Alice said in shock

“What? Hey at least if the sex was good, she got something out of it.” she looked at me holding her finger and thumb apart “Or was he a member of the teeny peeny club?” I laughed, Alice burst out “Oh My God, like thumb boy.” Rose laughed.

“Thumb boy?” I asked

“You have to tell her”

Rose composed herself “Before I met Emmet, I was going out with this guy, and we were having sex, so he goes to stick it in me, and I can’t feel anything” she giggles “Not like I got some big gaping hole or anything. But my god, a girl should feel something. So I said are you in?” The three of us laughed and Rose continued with her tale.

“He’s like I’m in baby, you feel so good.’ - I feel nothing!” Alice finished what she was doing, picking up the pitcher. As we headed out the back door Rose persistent

“So I said wait a minute, and I went to go down on him, thinking he needed some mouth action to get harder.” We stood by the bar on the patio and Rose lowers her voice as Alice and I get closer

“I’m now face to peen, and I look at it, and it is no bigger than my thumb.”

“What?” I laugh incredulously

Rose holds up her right hand “Swear to God! My thumb”

We stood there laughing for a few seconds. Rose shook her head “That was another reason why I was glad I got with Emmet, cuz my man is packing!”

“Oh my god, I so did not need to hear that” she just looked at me with a smug face, and then pointed a finger “And don’t you bitches be looking, he’s all mine.”

“Don’t worry” Alice said ‘I’m not interested in my brother’s penis.” I laughed “Me neither”

I was still giggling as I slipped off my flip flops and shimmed out of my skirt. Rose leaned over and said “Edward is looking at your ass” then she swatted it lightly, when I stood up, Edward was staring at me; I smiled at him, and turned to talk to the girls. ‘Oh yeah, that got him going” Alice said mockingly, handing me my drink.


They got in, and I stood by the tub pulling my hair to one side off my neck. I looked out into the back yard. This day has turned out a whole lot better then it started with my dream that turned to a nightmare. “Are you getting in?” His voice broke through my thoughts. “Yes Sir, I am” he smiled. I pulled my hair up securing it with the band I had on my wrist. Edward ran the cold bottle across his head before taking my hand to help me into the water.

“You hot little brother?” Emmet asked with a smirk. I looked up at him innocently “It’s not that hot Edward. I’ve been a whole lot hotter.” he looked at me like he could not believe I just said that. When I looked at Alice we giggled, Rose winked at me. Oh yeah, being with Edward is defiantly going to be fun.

We sat in the water for a about a half an hour, the boys talked about sports and games. I talked with the girls. I stood up to sit on the edge when Alice spoke. “Jazzy could you look at Bella’s scar real quick? See if there can be anything done for it.”

I was suddenly nervous, and I wished she hadn’t brought it up. “You have a scar Bella?” Jasper asked with concern. I glanced at Edward he was studying my body; I assumed he was trying to find it. My hand went to the back of my neck, as did his eyes.

“Umm…yeah. It’s on the back of my neck.”

“Let me have a look.” he jester with his hands for me to come closer as he stood up. I turned my back to him, which brought me eye to eye with Edward. He smiled faintly, and for some reason a feeling of shame wash over me. I realized I was biting my lip as I diverted my gaze from his.

Jasper moved a few strands of stray hair from my neck before I felt his fingers touch the marred skin. “Who did this?” he asked with disdain. I wasn’t sure exactly what he meant “The Surgeon?”

“Yes.” I could feel Emmet behind me now. I felt like I was a traffic accident - sorry to see it happen but unable to look away - as the two men analyzed my disfigurement. “Umm ...Dr Morgan” I answered his question, still unable to look back at Edward.

“In Port Angeles? Why didn’t he have a Plastic Surgeon close for him? He would have reduced the scaring by ninety percent”

“Well…at the time, I was more concerned with getting the use of right arm back.” I chanced a glance at Edward, he still had that same half smile on his face, but his eyes showed.... contempt? I had to look away; I didn’t want to see the disgust he had at my imperfection. He reached out taking my hand, drawing my eyes to his and smiled warmly at me as his thumb ran softly over my wrist. “And, how long ago was this?”

“Umm…six years.”

“Ok” he said as he tapped my back, effectively dismissing me.

Sitting back down, my hand still in Edwards under the water, I looked at Jasper as he sighed “Are you putting anything on it now?”

“Yes Dermitage?” He sighed again nodding “Ok, you have a few options. One I reopen it, and use my magical touch to make it all better” he wiggled his fingers at me when he said magical.

“Ohhh....he does have magical fingers” Alice said leading on my arm.

“TMI TMI! I don’t want to hear about his magical fingers on my little sister” Emmet interrupted; causing me to giggle, everyone else chuckled. Jasper went on with a smile ‘Two, I can laser, which would remove most of it. Three I can write you a prescription tretinoin, that would work better then what your using. I have to tell you though” he grew serious “after six years; I don’t think that will help very much.”

I looked at him; Edward spoke up now, “So you’re saying she should have it removed?” Jasper shook his head “No, what I’m saying is that if it bothers you, and makes you self conscious, then your best bet is option one. But of course I’m a surgeon” he said with a smug smile “I like to cut people open, and that’s why I got into plastic surgery, to help people who are disfigured and scared. Give them their self esteem back. Help a child who has a cleft palate to live a normal life. It’s rewarding.’


I was getting ready to answer him when Emmet blurted out “You became a plastic surgeon so you can look at tits all day.” Alice scowled at him, Jasper chuckled again “I’ll agree tits and facelifts pay for the house, but really it’s this kind of stuff that gives me the most satisfaction from my job. So think about it, if you want to, call my office make an appointment and we can get it done.”

I scrunched my face “Do I have to be in the hospital”

“No....we can do that in the office, it would take about an hour. A day or two of mild discomfort and swelling, two weeks you’ll barely see it, and it will be completely gone in a month.”

I sighed “I have to see if my insurance will cover it”

Jasper groaned pulling his hands to his chest “Your mortally wounding me....I just got done telling you how much satisfaction I get from helping people and you go reduce it to dollars and cents.” turning to Emmet he mutters “Women”

Emmet shook his head “I know dude, I know”

“Ok, I’m getting out, I’m getting all pruney” Alice said as she scooted over the side. “Let’s play a game of spades”

After drying off and refilling our drinks. We spent the rest of the time playing spades. Before I knew it, the baby monitor was alerting Alice that Mia was up. When I looked up, the clock said it was 4:30. Edward asked if I was ready to go, I gathered my stuff opting to go home in my suit and skirt, hugged Alice good-bye and thanked her again for the invite.

Emmet and Rose walked out with us, in the driveway Rose hugged me, “Listen, if you need to talk, you call me. I’m not a psych major, but I know this life, and it helps to have someone to talk to” I nodded “Thanks Rose”

“Any time girl”

Edward had already put my duffle bag in the trunk and was holding the door open for me.
As we drove away, he smiled at me “Did you have a nice day?”

“Yes. Your family is great. Emmet’s hilarious; Rose kind of balances him out. Your mom is wonderful, she so compassionate. And your dad well he’s just so...so handsome.” He glared at me “Handsome?” I nodded with a grin “Ah hah”

“I’m going to have to watch you around my father.” I giggled

He laughed “So what do you want to do now.” groaning I answered “I would really like to take a shower and I have to food shop. Other then that I don’t know” He pursed his lips “Well, I have to get a few things, how about I go home shower and pick you up we can go together”

“Are you taking me on a date to the grocery store?” He had a perplexed look on his face “I guess I am”

“Alrighty then” I chuckled. He got out opened my door and retrieved my bag. Placing a chaste kiss on my lips “Half an hour enough time?”

“Yeah” I started walking towards the back door “Bella” I turned around to face him “Your scar, don’t have it removed.” I watched as he walked closer to me. “But when we were talking about it, you looked like....like it was disgusting, like you hated it.”

He narrowed his eyes “I’m sorry...I don’t hate your scar, I hate that something that awful happened to you, that caused you to have the scar in the first place. You’re beautiful, everything about you is perfect just the way you are.” I dropped my duffle bag, and before I could even register what I was doing threw my arms around his neck and my legs around his waist and kissed him.

It took him a second to get over the shock of the surprise attack. When he did he grinned against my lips and kissed me back, while his hands found purchase on my bottom. Our lips moved together in harmony, I open my mouth slightly and ran my tongue over his bottom lip. He opened his mouth for me, letting me control the moment. After a minute, I pulled away from his mouth, placing my head on his shoulder. He held me tight, kissing the top of my head as I ran my fingers through his hair.


“Edward?” I asked softly

“What baby?” I kissed his neck lightly from his ear, to his chin, taking in the smell of his skin. Sweet, musky and man it was heavenly “Why don’t you call me Isabella anymore?”

He chuckled “I thought you liked Bella?”

I looked at his shirt playing with the collar while I answered “I usually do, but when you say Isabella, it makes my happy spot tickle” I wiggled my hips so he knew exactly what I was talking about. He got a sly grin on his face

“Does it now?” I nodded

“Well, I’ll tell you, I decided I was going to call you Isabella only when I mean business.” Swatting my bottom lightly so I knew what he was talking about. “Oh!” He chuckled again, “Now Miss Isabella” he said as he lowered me to the ground “Be a good girl and go get ready. I’ll be right back.”

True to his word, Edward was back. “Are you ready to go? You have your list?” I looked at him “List? I don’t have a list, I do have my coupons.” Showing him my little plastic file box.

“How do you know what to get without a list?” I shrugged “I just go up and down the aisles get what I need and what I have a coupon for.” He narrowed his eyes at me. “Well let’s go.”

Shopping with Edward was an experience. He had his list, and he didn’t get anything that wasn’t on it. He laughed at me when I bought Fruity Pebbles, telling me that they had no nutritional value. But I didn’t care, they sure do taste good. He carried all the groceries into the house for me, before leaving for a short while, to put his away. By the time he returned I had started making chicken stir fry with fried rice. Seth came in from outside through his doggy door, a few seconds before Edward knocked at the door, startling me.

“You could have warned me you know.” I said to Seth as I opened the door ‘Hi” he smiled as he kissed my cheek “Hello” he smelled the air as he came through the door “I was going to suggest we get pizza, this is better. It smells fantastic.”

“Thanks. I figured if I was hungry, you must be hungry too. Chicken Stir Fry ok with you?”

“Sounds great can I help you with anything?”

“You can set the table and get out the wine from the refrigerator. Dishes and glasses are in there” I said pointing to the cabinet.” If you don’t want wine, there is a few beers in there and Ice Tea. Help yourself.”

I put the Chicken over a bed of rice and we sat down to eat. Edward took a bite then smiled. “This is really good. When did you learn to cook? I mean... I know you were married, but not very long, and you know what they say about newlyweds.” I looked at him having no clue and waiting for him to explain

“You know, if it wasn’t for the sex, a man would starve to death.” Cocking my head to the side “I never heard that.” He shrugged “Yeah supposedly the sex is so good the first two year, the man will eat anything, burnt, raw it doesn’t matter. But only for the first two years.”

I smiled “What happens then?”

He grinned “Well, I’m told the sex dies down and the food gets better.”

I burst out laughing. “Oh really? And who told you this?”

He thought for a minute “My really fat married friends.” then he laughed along with me.

I got my laughter under control “I been cooking since I was ten. When I moved with Charlie, all he could cook was bacon and eggs or fish. He tried to cook but I guess he had ‘Newlywed Syndrome” I chuckled “because it was either burnt or raw, the man almost started the kitchen on fire making spaghetti noodles.”

Edward looked at me in shock “Yeah he did! So I started cooking.” He narrowed his eyes “That’s a big responsibility for a child.”

“Well it was either that or we eat at the Dinner all the time.”


“Where was Leah’s mom?” I swallowed my food and took a drink before answering “Harry, Leah’s dad died when I was twelve. My dad and Sue didn’t start going out until I was fourteen. Then it was two years later when they got married. She didn’t move in until after they were married. I don’t ever remember her sleeping over. Charlie always thought the shock of seeing that would corrupt me or something.” Edward picked up his glass “He sounds like a good father.” I nodded “Yes, he is. I love him; he was always there for me. I mean he was twenty-nine when I came to live with him. He had his life, but he always put me first”.

Edward picked up the wine bottle inclining it in my direction, silently asking if I wanted more. “Please” I said pushing the glass towards him.

“Isn’t that what fathers, are suppose to do? Put their child’s needs above their own?” I nodded “Your right. I was lucky to have him, to still have him, and Sue. She has always been like a mother to me, even when Harry was alive.”

I got up and started clearing the dishes. Edward helped and in no time at all, the dish washer was humming away. As I put the leftovers away Edward came up behind me wrapping his arms around me. “Thank you for dinner” turning in his arms so I was facing him “Your welcome, it’s nice to actually cook for somebody”

He smiled at me, leaned in and kissed me tenderly. “Ah, my Bella. You can cook for me anytime. Now it’s a great night, why don’t we take Seth out for a walk?”

I looked out the window it was still light out. “Ok.” As soon as I had his leash in my hand, Seth was sitting at the door waiting. “Smart Dog” Edward said as he patted his head, looking at me he added “Maybe you should bring a jacket or something; it’s probably chilly with the sun going down.”

It was a beautiful night, and Edward was right I did need a sweatshirt. I’m not use to having people take care of me, or looking out for my welfare. I was always the one who took care of other people. “What are thinking about?” His question brought me back to reality.

“Excuse me what did you say?”

He chuckled ‘You looked like you were deep in thought; I just wondered what you were thinking about.”

“Oh” I blushed “It’s really stupid.” He didn’t say anything at first

“You going to tell me?”

“I was just thinking that it is a nice night out.”

“And?”

“And that you were right.”

“I usually am, what I was right about though.”

I rolled my eyes “You’re usually right, uh?”

He looked smug “Yes Mama” We turned the corner “Well, when you said I would need a jacket, you were right”

“Bella that wasn’t hard to figure out, it gets cold when the sun goes down.” He smirked at me “I know, it’s just...I just, am not use to someone looking out for me. I always am the one who looks out for other people...and I was thinking that it’s ...nice that you thought about me and my comfort.”

We stopped for Seth to use a fire hydrant, he placed his hand on my face, cupping the side of my jaw. “It’s my job to take care of you, a job I take very seriously” He kissed my other cheek. “I told you last night, for some reason I am drawn to you.” His hand left my face, tucking a stand of hair behind my ear, playing with the end of it. “I feel very ...protective, of you. And there is something you will learn about me, and learn it real quick. I don’t do anything halfway. I’m an, all or nothing kind of guy.”

He took my hand as we started walking again, rounding another corner on the way back. “Why Edward?” He looked at me waiting for me to finish my question. “Why me? I’m not sophisticated, I’m not one of the beautiful people, my experience in the bedroom is...limited at best, I have no idea what I’m doing, or what you expect from me. I just don’t see why you of all people would want to waste your time with someone like me”

We were walking back into my yard. Once we were in the house I filled my glass with wine “Do you want some of this?” He nodded. After taking his glass he took my hand “Come here, sit with me.”

He lead me to the couch, smiling sadly “Let’s talk. I was going to bring some of this up tomorrow, but it looks like it needs to be addressed now.” I sat angled next to him quietly sipping wine while he talked.


“Why you? That’s probably the hardest of your questions. I don’t know why you. I don’t know why I’m drawn to you. Thursday night, you said...it must be fate. I never believed in fate, but I’m starting to now. All I know is that from the moment I bumped into you and felt that charge, I can’t get you out of my mind. As far as your ...bedroom experience, that’s irrelevant. In fact it’s better that way. For one I don’t have a lot of other men looking at you, thinking what a great fuck you were.” I rolled my eyes “Another reason is you won’t have to unlearn any...bad habits. It will be like you’re a virgin all over again.”

“Now, let me ask you some questions.” I sat up a little straighter “What did you mean when you said you’re not, sophisticated?”

I took another drink and swallowed. “I come from a small town, a tiny little hick town of three thousand people.” I snorted “For god’s sake, I got married right out of high school, like the little hick girl who got knocked up on prom night. Only I wasn’t knocked up, so I can’t even use that as an excuse for my stupidity.”

“Look at me Bella.” I did “I wouldn’t call that stupidity. I would call that a bad decision made by a young, impressionable girl. Is there any doubt in your mind that had James been the kind of husband he should have been, that you would still be with him?” He looked at me pointedly, raising one eye brow.

“No, I would be.” he nodded. “I wouldn’t say that because you grew up in a small town, that you are a hick. That implies low intelligence and narrow mindedness. Of which you are neither. So don’t put yourself down.”

Holding both my hands he pulled me towards him “Come here” I got up; he situated me so I was facing him, straddling his thighs. He smiled at me, running his hand down the length of my hair.

“Now as far as you not knowing what you’re doing...hmmm...Can you follow directions?” I smiled and nodded. “Then my dear, you’ll know what to do. Follow my directions, don’t try to think or figure out what I’m going to do, and you will do just fine.” He brushed his lips over mine “And as far as what I expect, we’ll talk about that tomorrow.”

He grinned, kissing me again, this time deeper, opening his mouth letting our tongues tangle is a slow dance. My hands moved to his hair. His hands slid from my hips up to my ribs, then around to back, pulling me closer.

My breast pushed up against his chest, I could feel his muscles heave with each breath. He moved from my lips to my neck, kissing and sucking the space under my ear. His right hand was on my ribs; his thumb was tracing the underside of my breast. My breathing increased, until I was practically panting.

My hands moved down to his chest, rubbing over the tense muscles under his shirt. I just wanted to feel his skin, my hands slipped under the material, that tingly sensation was intensified as desire ripped through me. His hands were on my bare stomach, moving up to cup my breast. His thumbs moved over my nipples, making them harder than they already were. I pulled back looking into his eyes, they were darker than before, he pulled my hair back in one of his hands, tugging gently so I had to lift my chin. His lips crushed to mine, in a searing passionate kiss, leaving me breathless.

He left go of my hair, holding on to the end of my shirt, tugging it up. I pulled back, raising my arms, giving silent permission. He threw my shirt on the floor, as his eyes took in my blue laced bra. I felt slightly exposed, so I reached down to finish unbuttoning his shirt. Once it was open, I placed small wet kisses over his pecks, and up to his ear, nibbling lightly on the lobe. He groaned as I shifted my hips, letting his erection rub against my core. He thrust up, making me moan from the friction. His hands were at my back, opening the clasp on my bra. He was running his tongue in a wet line from neck to my collar bone.


His hands came to my shoulders, he pulled back to look at me “Bella, Not that it would bother me, but unless you want the neighbors to get a free show, maybe you want to close the blinds.” I looked over at the now dark exterior “OH!” I giggled “I forgot” he chuckled as I pressed the button to give us privacy. He was still smiling as he looked in my eyes, drawing the straps from my bra down over my arms and discarding it with my shirt. “Stand up baby” I looked at him, he cocked his head to the side, smiling sheepishly.

I stood with my arms folded over my breast. He chuckled pulling my hands down to my side. I felt very exposed and uncomfortable. He looked at me and grabbed a hold of my hips, making me take a step towards him. He kissed my stomach once, twice three times, letting his tongue dip into my navel, making my breath hitch. My hands went back into his hair so I could steady myself. His hands started to open the button on my pants. He looked up at me and I nodded. He opened my pants, pulling them down over my thighs. When they pooled at my feet, I stepped out of them and kicked them to the side.

With his hands on my hips, he had me take a step back, and then he eyed me, from my feet all the way up my body. When he reached my eyes, he stood. He held his hand out to me to take, when I did, he spun me around so my back was to him. He pulled my hair over my left shoulder, kissing it as his right arm wrapped around my waist, pulling me closer to him. I felt dizzy from the close contact. His erection was being pushed into my back, I moaned from the knowledge that I had excited him. He left out a long breath

“Isabella, you are absolutely beautiful.” I blushed at the compliment, he chuckled, kissing up my neck “Do you doubt me woman?” I shook my head and giggled. “No, I just think you’re a little bias”

“Hmmm...Maybe, but that’s my right isn’t it?” he said as his hand came up to cup my breast.

“Come here, lay down on the couch.” I looked at him unsure what he wanted. “Directions, remember.” I nodded, and complied. I looked up at him, watching as he took his shirt off letting it drop to the floor. My eyes raked over his torso. The defined muscles of his chest, the tight abdominal muscles expanding with each breath he took. His jeans hung loose over his hips. He was gorgeous. He smirked, kneeling down next to the couch.

“Did you just call me gorgeous?” I bit my lip, blushing as I diverted my eyes from his. “Umm...maybe?” he snickered, leaning over to cup my face with his hands before kissing me again.

I felt his tongue seeking entrance again, I accommodated. He kissed the side of my face before looking in my eyes. “Bella? Do you trust me?” I nodded. “Say it baby.”

I touched his face with my finger tips. “I trust you, Edward.”

Holding both my hands he stretched my arms up over my head, so they lay on the arm of the couch. He looked at me with a stern forceful gaze. Not a gaze that would make me afraid, but a gaze that caused my thighs to rub together, as the wetness gathered there.

“Don’t move your arms; you can move anything else, but not those. Make as much noise as you want. I just want to try something.” He smiled, cupping my chin “Do you understand?”

I nodded “Say it, Isabella.”

“Yes Sir, I understand.” he winked ‘Good girl” then he kissed me again.


Softly his hands moved up to my breast. He cupped them gently rubbing his thumb over my nipple, causing me to moan in his mouth. He started placing small kisses down my neck, over my collar bone, moving down over my breast.

His tongue swirled around my nipple, before he sucked it into his mouth. I arched my back and moaned as his hand teased the other one. He was relentless; I closed my eyes as the sensation became intense. My thighs started to move on their own accord, as I tried to find friction. I could feel the building of pressure in my stomach, but the release I desired was nowhere to be found. My breathing was erratic, and it took everything I had to keep my hands in the position he placed them in.

He was starting to use his teeth over my nipple, pulling it taunt, the pressure kept building, but no matter what I did I couldn’t find release. “Please”... I begged, his fingers squeezed a little tighter, but that only caused the pressure to build more. I was arching my back, trying to get him to take more of me in his mouth as I moaned in frustration

“Please...Ohhh... Edward ...Please...” I practically begged. He stopped the motion he was making with his mouth “What do you want, Isabella?” I looked at him. His eyes were dark and dangerous. “Please…” My voice came out pleading. He was rolling my nipples between his fingers, sucking lightly on my neck.

“Mmm...You are so responsive to my touch, I could do this all night.” he murmured against my neck.

“Oh My God...noooo...ahhhh... pleeeaaassse” I was getting desperate.

“Tell me what you need Isabella, maybe I’ll give it to you.” He whispered in my ear.

His mouth was back on my breast. I was panting so loudly it was almost embarrassing. I couldn’t think all I wanted was to feel the release that my body so desperately needed. My thighs were so tightly squeezed together they were starting to cramp.

“Please Edward....please… I want to…I need… to cum....please” I spoke with haggard breaths.

“Hmm… I bet you do.” He chuckled deviously, as he still had one nipple between his fingers while he rubbed the scruff on his chin over the other.

He kissed me again, deep and passionately, my insides were on fire, I couldn’t do anything to get rid of the burn that I was feeling. His mouth was back, he held my nipple between his teeth, flicking it with his tongue. I moaned so loud, I never felt so wanton, so in need of release. My mouth spoke the words, before my brain could stop them

“Damn It Edward ....Please!”

And he bit down hard on one nipple while he pinched the other. My body convulsed, and I screamed in sweet relief. The mixture of the pleasure and pain feeling so good, it felt like my body was floating. I was aware of his hands lightly rubbing my breast, as I tried to slow down my breathing.

I opened my eyes to the feel of Edward planting soft kisses on my lips. He smiled warmly at me. “You alright?”

“Yeah” my voice was still breathless, as I looked in his eyes “Wow! That was...Wow!” He snickered, “Come here” he said as he lifted me up into his lap. He brushed the hair from my sweaty face, kissing the top of my head.

We were quiet for a few minutes, my breathing coming back to normal as I lay safely in his arms. My head resting against his shoulder, I kissed his neck as his hands stroked my back. I could live with this.

“Better?”

I nodded “Yeah, I never... orgasmed like that before.”

He chuckled. “You did really good baby. You just have to follow directions. The rest you’ll learn.” I was going to answer him when I heard someone bursting into the room.

“Bella!...Oh My God”

Leah was standing in the doorway, with Jake behind her. She turned around quickly. It took Jake a second to understand the scene in front of him, before he turned around. “Bella, we’ll be in the kitchen.” she pulled Jake with her.

“Shit!” I looked at Edward he had a arrogant look on his face, I giggled.

“Well, this ought to be interesting” he chuckled before kissing me quickly and handing me my shirt.

I walked out into the kitchen to a very embarrassed Leah. Jake was waiting out on the patio.
“I’m sorry Bella. I tried to call you, but you didn’t answer the phone.” Edward came out into the kitchen his shirt was on, but not buttoned. “I’m sorry Edward, really I am. Anyway, I’m leaving now” she was walking out the door when she turned around “Answer your phone next time, or at least hang a sock on your door or something.” she advised before closing the door.


I looked to Edward; he was looking down at the floor running his hands through his hair. “I’m sorry, they really worry about me.” he shook his head, pulling me into his arms, he laughed

“I haven’t been caught making out since I was seventeen. It’s kind of funny. Anyway, I have to get going.” I looked at him sadly. “You do” he kissed me “Yes, I do. I’ll pick you up tomorrow morning at nine thirty. Is that alright with you?”

I nodded. He buttoned up his shirt, and started for the door. He held my chin for a second looking in my eyes then leaned in to kiss me. “No masturbating allowed Isabella” And he walked out the door smirking at my stunned face.

Chapter 5

EPOV

I was standing by the baseball field, next to Emmet watching Vinny’s game. The women were all sitting talking about whatever the fuck women talk about. Emmet was scrutinizing the team on the field. I just listen because for fucks sake it’s a four and five year old T-ball game. I heard a commotion, drawing my attention to the grassy area on my left. A dog was running with its leash dragging behind him. He made his way straight toward me stopping at my feet. I bent over to retrieve the leash so he wouldn’t take off again. After having secured it and standing erect, recognition over took me. She wasn’t looking at me; her thoughts were on the dog. Once she was close enough she began to admonish the animal. I thought it was cute that she was calling him naughty, and threatening him with no treats, because last night we talked about treats, and I would love to reward her with a piece of chocolate. As she started to apologize to me for her dog I wanted her to look at me, to acknowledge my presence. Her name was on the tip of my tongue; it took all my strength to keep from pulling her into my arms. I conveyed that desire into her name “Isabella”

When her attention was finally off the dog and on me, all I could see was this woman. She was stunning. Her cheeks were slightly flushed from running; her hair was wrapped in some kind of mess that showed off the length of her neck, and the angle of her cheek bones. She was dressed in tight pants that hugged her curvaceous hips and round plump ass. The gray t-shirt showed off the tiniest bit of her flat stomach while accentuating the fullness of her breast. Breast that I wanted to touch, suck and bite until she screamed. She had a natural beauty that was genuine and very feminine. She was a walking wet dream.

After I handed her back the leash, a russet skin women who was obviously pregnant came over. She chastised the dog also, saying something about a brat and who the dog was named for. Isabella named her dog after someone? Who the fuck could that be? I was slightly pissed off about that. Isabella then introduced her friend, Leah - her step-sister- she looked at me when she said that Leah was Jacob’s wife. I chuckled a little when my father told mom that Isabella was my …friend. I looked at Isabella’s face; it was the prettiest shade of pink from her embarrassment of being caught yesterday.

They all stood there talking, I was analyzing the last few days. I literally bumped into this woman two nights ago. Since that night, she has become a part of my life, a part that I’m not sure I want to go away. She’s beautiful and sexy, but she has some things that we are going to have to talk about. Last night when I ran into her at the pub, I was dumbfounded. I had called to talk to my father in the afternoon and he asked if I wanted to meet him for dinner there. I had never been to that establishment before, but I didn’t have any plans so it sounded good to me. I was actually early when I walked in; there was laughing coming from one of the booths. When I looked over and saw Isabella, I was dazed and drawn to her. Once I realized that my father somehow or another knew her co-worker I was even more convinced that maybe something bigger than me was leading us towards each other.


I had a wonderful time sitting there with her. She has a compassion that transcends anyone I ever knew. I believe she was upset that I paid the bill, but hey, chivalry is not dead. Once we were outside I put my arm around her, in order to keep her from getting a chill. Her body fit inside mine so perfectly, it just felt right. I had women that I would do a scene with, that’s all they were, a means to an end. I wondered how many men she had been with, and if it was fulfilling for her. When I heard that she was only with one, her husband, I was floored.

Perhaps I acted on that knowledge the wrong way but I had to know when the last time she was with him was. All I heard was the question ‘willingly’. My temper flared because what the fuck did that mean? She wasn’t willing? So he raped her? And she blamed herself because she couldn’t fight him off. A feeling of protectiveness came over me. I wanted to hunt him down and rip his god damn balls off. But at that time, she needed comfort and I gave it to her, and it felt so right.

Then when we got to the building and she was telling me the need for secrecy, at first I was offended. Then I thought about it, she trusted me with something very important. The look in her eyes, the desire hidden deep inside, I wanted to feel that desire, I needed to see it unleashed. That kiss was phenomenal; I could feel her repressed passion coming out to the surface. All I wanted to do was take her home and see how much more she was concealing. I heard the gasp and the throat clearing, it didn’t matter to me, I’m an adult who is very secure in my sexuality. That was my father though, and Isabella’s reaction was too cute. When we left my father made a comment about getting a kiss like that. I thought; fuck that shit, not from my girl. Yes my girl. Mine!

All through dinner we talked about the center, what they do there, what their goals are. He asked me if I knew why she worked at the center for free. I told him what I knew, which admittedly wasn’t much. I did tell him that I felt a connection to her. Like there was some force somewhere pulling us together, for whatever reason.

Once I got home, I wanted to make sure that she arrived home safe. She didn’t answer, fifteen minutes later I thought maybe she had stayed at the center, she seemed worried about someone there, and by ten o’clock I was starting to get worried a slightly frustrated. I was debating what to do. I had no idea where she lived. The number she gave me was a cell, so I couldn’t do a reverse directory. I thought about looking up Jacob’s phone number, but he wasn’t listed in the phone book. I was just about ready to call Aro; I thought maybe he might have another number for her, or better yet an address. As I picked up my phone, I got her reply. Relief washed over me like a warm summer rain. I could feel the anxiety melt away as I read “Sorry, I was in the bath tub, I’m home safe - My mind went to Isabella in a bath filled with fruity smelling bubbles. Shaking that thought away, we spent the next few minutes replying back and forth. She needed sleep and I didn’t want to keep her up any longer than necessary.

Now today here she is, again. I have been at this park hundreds of times, I live four streets behind her, we work at the same place, and we went to the same college. All these things in common and yet we never met until now. Why? Is it fate? Coincidence? Have the stars and planets aligned in the perfect order? I just don’t know, but as Leah turns to leave, all I can think about is Aro’s words. ‘She’s a diamond in the rough....she needs to be refined....make her shine. I can see her confident, secure, and content in whom and what she is. And she is shining.


I become aware of the fact that Isabella is looking at me, her mouth pressed into a hard line. She lets out an exaggerated breath. “Well, it was nice to see you all. I’m going to finish the trail and head home”

Wait, she was leaving? I was just going to ask her to stay when Alice spoke up “Bella wait. What are you doing today?”

“Well, I have some work to do. Then I have to go shopping.”

Alice perked up “Where are you shopping at?” Isabella

“umm...The Superfresh?” It came out like a question, and I grinned because that was not the kind of shopping Alice was thinking about. “Ohhh...That’s no fun” Alice whined

“Anyway we are having lunch at my house, it’s nothing special just some burgers on the grill. Why don’t you come over?” Isabella looked stunned, then she glanced at me “I don’t know Alice; I don’t want to intrude in your family stuff.”

“Bella, you’re not intruding if I invited you. Come on we got plenty of food. It’s a nice day, the pool’s not open yet, but the hot tub is. Besides I have something I want to show you.” Alice looked at me with a grin. She told this morning that she had a design for Isabella and was wondering how to bring it up. I guess she figures she can dazzle her with Jasper’s grilling skills and that with soften the blow.

“Come on, just for a few hours, you’ll be home in plenty time to do your other stuff.” After she didn’t get a reply she added “I’m not going to take no for an answer.” I could see Isabella’s resolve waiver “Ok, but just for lunch I really have a lot to do.”

Alice looked pleased with herself. I smiled and shook my head because Alice always gets her way, and here was my chance to spend more time with Isabella “If you wait until the game is over, I’ll walk with you, and then we can walk to my house and go together.”

She hesitated - did she not want to go with me “Are you sure you don’t mind?”

Why the fuck would I mind? “No, I would like you to come with me.” Finally she agreed and my father called her over so she could sit in his chair, with the women. Dad came over to stand by me. “I like her Edward, she seems genuine.”

I knew what he was talking about; Isabella didn’t put on a show for anyone. She was just herself, modest, shy and a little unsure of herself. The whistle blew, calling an end to the game. The kids lined up to shake hands, then went over to the bench to get instructions and snacks. Jasper went over to get Vinny, while the women folded up their chairs. Isabella came to hand hers to my dad. “Thank you for the use of the chair, Carlisle”

“You’re more than welcome Bella.”

We were all standing there as Vinny came running over, juice box and animal crackers in hand. “Hey Uncle Emmet, did you see that ball I hit?” he had juice running down his chin.

“Sure did buddy, that was great.”

“Uncle Eddie, did you see how fast I ran?”

Yes he’s the only one that calls me Eddie. “I did, I think pretty soon you’ll be able to beat me.” He smiled and looked at Isabella and pointed making a face “Who’s that?” he asked. Alice chimed in “Vincent it’s not nice to point.” I chuckled as my sister introduced them


“This is Bella, she and mommy went to school together.” Isabella squatted down so she was eye level and stuck her hand out. “It’s very nice to meet you Vinny.” He shook her hand “You’re pretty.”

Emmet and Jasper made comments about him being a ladies’ man. My dad whispered in my ear “Kid got good taste” and I had to agree. Isabella smiled “Well, you’re kind of handsome yourself.”

“If you went to school with my mom, are you old too?” Everyone snickered. My mother tried to correct him “Vincent, you don’t ask a lady how old she is.” Isabella just giggled “Well I don’t know, what do you call old?”

“Umm...fifteen.” Isabella chuckled “Then yes I’m very old.” Emmet gahuffed “That means I’m middle aged and gramps here is ready for the retirement home.” He added as he patted dad on the back.

Vinny looked down at Seth “Is that your dog?”

“It is. This is Seth” she added. Vinny made a face.

“Seth?” he asked with distaste “Why did you name him Seth?”

She bite her lip and sighed. I was wondering who the dog was named after myself and now I really wanted to know because of her reaction. “I have a bother.”

“Is he old too?” Vinny interrupted

“He’s almost eighteen.”

“That’s not old.” he said shaking his head.

“No, that’s not old. My brother’s name is Seth and doggy Seth was born on his birthday and when I looked at the puppy, he looked just like my brother. So I named him Seth.” Vinny looked at her in shock. “Your bother looks like a dog? Does he have fur?”

She chuckled “No he doesn’t have fur. But his skin is the same color brown, and his eyes are the same color. I’ll tell you what; maybe one day I will show you a picture of my brother so you can see what I’m talking about. How does that sound?”

“That sounds like we have a deal”


“OK, little man lets go” Alice said as Isabella stood back up. I took Isabella’s hand in mine and started to turn. Vinny scrunched up his face “Look mommy Uncle Eddie is holding Bella’s hand. I thought she was your friend.”

Emmet put his arm around Isabella’s shoulder ‘Vinny my man, Bella is every ones friend. But she is Uncle Eddies...special friend.” I turned to gape at him; Rose came over taking his other hand “Don’t say that to him.”

“What? Look at these two, they know each other like three days and they can’t keep their eyes off each other. That’s a good thing. We all need a special friend.”

Isabella was biting her lip, and turning redder by the second. “Vinny my man, don’t you have a favorite friend you play with all the time?”

“Emmet!” I growled. Could someone please shut him the fuck up? Rosalie came to my rescue “Let’s go Emmet, We will see you all at the house.” she pulled his free arm, making him let go of Isabella’s shoulder and they walked to the parking lot.

“Bella I’m so sorry about Emmet, I swear I raised him right.” my mother said with concern. Jasper spoke next “Words just come out of his mouth, before his brain can catch up. That’s all, but he’s harmless.”

Isabella started giggling “That’s ok really, I just kept wondering what he was going to say next.” Alice was giggling too, “Oh my god when he said special friend I thought Edward was going to kill him.” I chuckled ‘I was thinking about it.”

“Ok everyone at my house in half-an-hour. Is that doable for you guys?” she was looking at me. “Give me forty-five, that should be good.” Jasper clapped my shoulder “Minute man, huh?”

I groaned, Isabella was chewing on her lip, and my father was chuckling. Alice and my mother just stared at him. He started laughing “I couldn’t resist.”

Vinny pulled on his shirt “Dad…What’s a minute man?”
Alice held on to Vinny’s hand “Come on we have to go home and wash up.”

“But I want to know what a minute man is.” Alice glared at her husband “See what you did? Forty-five minutes, so you better get moving! Oh and Bella, Don’t forget your suit.” she called over her shoulder as they walked away.

We stood there with mom and dad chuckling as Alice put her husband in his place. “Can we give you two a lift, at least to Bella’s house? That might save some time.”

“No I think we will be fine with time. We have to go though.” I kissed my mother on the cheek “See you soon.” Isabella said good-bye and we started walking.

“So, is that the full Cullen Monty?” she asked with a snicker. I nodded “Pretty much, you won’t get the full effect until you see them eat.” she laughed.

“I am sorry if Emmet embarrassed you, he doesn’t mean any harm. He’s like a big kid at heart. But he’s loyal to his friends and even more so to family.” We had to stop for Seth by a tree. She looked at me “Really Edward, I didn’t mine. I was just shocked that he would think we had that kind of a relationship, that’s all”

I thought about that for a minute we were exiting the park, and stopped to allow a car to pass on the street. “What did you mean?”

“What?”

“What did you mean when you said that he would think we had that kind of a relationship?” We started walking again, and I was waiting for an answer to my question. What did she think our relationship would involve? I just told her yesterday that I feel something for her that I have never felt before. I was going to ask again in a more insistent manor when she sighed, drawing my attention to her face. She looked like she was concentrating really hard. “Isabella, tell me what you are thinking. I need to know.”

She sighed again “Edward I just don’t know what to think. I mean…this” she held our joined hands up. “This feels so right, but ... I’m not a special friend...I’m not really anything to you. I just...I don’t know, what kind of a relationship we have, if we have any at all.”


I couldn’t really blame her, we hadn’t talked about what we want from this relationship, but in a way I was upset that she didn’t understand.

“You look upset. I shouldn’t have said anything.” I shook my head “No, I want, no I need to know what you are thinking and feeling at all times - especially this early in our involvement. That doesn’t mean I like or understand why you feel that way.” She stopped walking. “Umm…yeah this is my house.”

The grey house sat fifteen feet back from the sidewalk. The cement walkway lead to the steps that raised to a perfectly inviting white door. The left corner of the house was all clear glass. The lot was completely covered with grass, tall shrubs lined the property on the left, while a tree bent over the sidewalk on the right. As we walked towards the house she looked at me warily. “I usually go in the back.” I gestured with my hand “lead the way.”

We walked on a cobble stone path around the back of the house. The driveway lead to the garage that was attached to the left side of the house. We climbed a few step to the patio, then a few more to the back porch.

She entered the code into the door and we stepped into the kitchen. “Umm... Can I get you something to drink? I think I have lemonade and I know there is some bottled water.”

“I’ll have water.” She went to the refrigerator pulling out two bottles. “Can you give me a minute? I just want to go to the bathroom, and I have to feed Seth.”

“Sure we have a few minutes” She started walking towards the other room “Edward make yourself at home, I’ll be right back.”

“Thanks Bella” she stopped and looked at me like she was confused. She blinked a few times, and then started walking again. “Bella, don’t forget your swimming suit” I called out after her.

“Are you serious?” she asked incredulously. I laughed “If you don’t take one, Alice will give you one.” I was looking around the small kitchen; the walls were painted soft beige. The stainless steel Refrigerator and stove were on the left, with the microwave secured to the wall above it. On the right, half the wall was a window with a small oval table and two high back black chairs. Directly in front of me sat the sink with another window above it and dishwasher nestled in between the bottom cabinets. On both sides of the window along the wall, cabinets filled the space.

There wasn’t much on the counters. The coffee pot sat in one corner in the other a decorative dish stood in a stand. I glanced on the table and picked up the book that was left there. Different Loving, I smirked - the girls been reading.

“Hey I grabbed a towel too.” She was back and had changed. She had on a pair of jeans and a blue silk sleeveless button down V neck shirt, which showed just a hint of cleavage. Her hair was out of the ponytail, hanging in soft waves down her back. “You look great.” Her face turned into that shade of pink “Thanks” she reached in the cabinet under the sink and pulled out a large plastic container setting it on the counter. Then she pulled out a double bowl dish - I assumed for Seth - she filled one side with water and the other with dry chunks from the plastic container, which she then returned back under the sink. She put the bowl down next to the wall and Seth was there in an instant. “I know you’re hungry” she said as she patted his head “You be a good boy, mommy will be back.” she looked at me “I’m ready when you are, my bag and purse are in the living room” she pointed into the other room.

I followed her; this room was painted the same color with white woodwork. The wall opposite of the windowed corner was brick with a fireplace nestled in it. The oak floor had an area rug in the center with a sofa and two chairs on each side, the square coffee table sat in the middle of the grouping.

“This is a nice house. You have a lot of windows, great sunlight. How long you lived here?” I couldn’t remember if she told me before. “I’m here four years. Yeah, I liked this house. I’d like to do something with the kitchen, but I don’t know what. I had the bathroom redone when I bought it.”
“Can I see it?”

“Sure come on.


She led the way down the hall. The doors to the rooms were open. “This is my room” She pointed to the room on the right. It was painted slightly darker beige, with white woodwork. The dark wood sleigh bed was under a row of windows, with a matching night stand on each side of it. The bedding was deep brown with a beige scroll design going through it. The only other piece of furniture in there was a dresser and a much filled bookshelf. Seth’s bed was in the corner by the closet.

“Can I ask why you don’t have window treatments?”

“Well, I like the light. But I do have treatments.” She walked over to the night stand picking up a remote, she pushed a button, and brown shades slowly descended down the window in between the panes of glass. “Do you have them on all your windows?” She nodded, walking back into the hall pointing to the room directly across from this one.

“This is my office-slash-workout-TV room. This is the room that is usually a mess” She looked inside ‘You’re lucky I wasn’t home last night, so it didn’t get messed up” I looked in and she was right. The far corner housed the computer. Three large bookshelves dominated the whole northern wall. The TV was angled in the other corner and an old plaid tweed love seat sat in front of it, with a chipped oval coffee table in between the two. There was a double tiered round end table on one side of the love seat, and a rectangle table with a light coming out of it on the other.

“Nice furniture Bella.”I said with a smirk. She looked at me, biting her bottom lip and shrugged. I walked over and sat on the love seat, stretching my arm over the pink, green and purple knitted blanket that was neatly folded over the back.

“It’s comfortable” I said with a smile. She walked over and sat down next to me.

“It was my mothers. When she died, my dad got rid of most of her stuff. But these pieces he brought back with us and they were in my bedroom. He wanted me to feel at home.” I put my arm around her “How old were you Bella?” She looked straight ahead blankly “eight” I pulled her to my chest ‘I’m sorry baby that must have been hard?” She nodded “Yeah, Charlie was great, and I told you, I spent a lot of time at La Push.”

I left her go, pulling her hands as I stood up. “Show me this bathroom, or we are going to be late and have to suffer the wrath of Alice.” She laughed and went back into the hall. The last door was the bathroom. She was right it was nice and there was an entrance leading into her room. White Wainscoting came half way up the wall. The modern sink sitting atop of the dark cherry base looked more like a piece of art, rather than something to spit your toothpaste in. The jet tub was surrounded by white ceramic tiles, with aqua tile placed chaotically throughout.

‘Alright, I see why you spent an hour in the tub last night.” She giggled. ‘I like to sit in the tub, I find it very relaxing. I missed laying in a bubble bath, so when I bought this house, before I moved in; I made sure I got what I wanted.”

“You didn’t have a tub before?” who doesn’t have a tub. She shook her head. “I didn’t have a tub until I moved here.” I narrowed my eyes “why not?”

“Well, I lived in the dorms at college; you know what that’s like? Before that we only had a shower. I mean, there was a tub there, but, well....it got broken.” Her voice trailed off as she walked towards the living room.

“Why didn’t you get it fixed?” I asked as I picked up her purple duffle bag.


I followed her back into the kitchen, “Do you really want to hear this story?” She asked as she opened the back door, hitting a code into the security system. “Yes I do, my curiosity is peaked.” I said with a chuckle. She smirked and walked down the steps to the patio. She was going to go back to the front of the house but I grabbed a hold of her hand. “We can go out the back, I live that way” I said pointing my finger. As we walked she was quiet “So... your tub was broken?” I couldn’t figure out what was bad about her tub not working.

She sighed “I had class four days a week, and I worked part-time at the Wal-Mart because we needed the money. Anyway, one day I finished class for the day and went to my job, so by the time I got home it was after ten. James wasn’t home; I figured he had already eaten, because it was so late.” I was listening to her talk and something inside my head told me I didn’t want to hear the rest of the story.

“See when that happened in the past. He would eat at his parents. I was so tired, and I had homework and laundry to do, I just wanted to relax for fifteen minutes. I had just gotten into the tub” Yeah. I know I’m not going to like how this ends. “When I hear the door open, James is standing there and he wants to know what the Fuck I am doing sitting in the tub, when he hasn’t had dinner yet. I said I had just gotten home, and I thought he ate at his moms, like he did before. He started screaming about he wasn’t married to his fucken mom and it’s not her responsibility to feed him.- Oh, that’s Jake and Leah’s house” she pointed to a slate blue two story house with a white picket fence in front of it.

“They live really close to you, who bought first.”

“I did, they moved in right after they got married. They lived in an apartment up town. My dad was really happy when they move so close. So was I actually.” She grew quiet again. I figured I better get this over with. “So you were in the tub and he was mad.”

She let out a long breath “Yeah, he was mad, told me I couldn’t do anything right, that I was a horrible wife, and a spoiled brat. He said fucking me was like fucking a wet noodle. The next thing I knew he was standing over the tub and he says, you and your God Damn baths. You want to be a wet noodle? I’ll make you a fucken wet noodle. And he grabbed my hair pulling it really tight and shoved my head under the water.”

I looked at her, with rage filled eyes. Her eyes were blank. “What did you do?” I asked as we turned down my street. “I tried to get out, I pushed on his hand but I couldn’t move them. He pulled my head up, and I thought he was going to let me go, but he shoved me back under the water again. I was kicking and trying to push my legs so I could get up. I guess I splashed him or kicked him or something, because he punched me in the leg.”

I was seething, “What kind of fucken animal is he?” She looked at me squinting “Are you sure you want to hear the rest of this?” I raised my eyebrows in shock ‘Are you fucking telling me it gets worse?” She stilled her face. “It always got worse Edward.”

We had just gotten to my house and I was leading her up the driveway. Standing on the porch, I dug my keys out of my pocket, opening the door. “Bella, I’m going to get a glass of wine, do you want one?” She nodded “White or red?”

“White” I smiled at her, cupped her face with my hand lightly brushing my thumb over her chin as I looked into her eyes - eyes that have seen so much sadness and fear. “You got it babe.”

I turned around heading for the wine cooler. “So” I took a deep breath, I fucken hated even saying the words “He punched you in the leg”

She was quiet for a minute; I stopped pouring and looked at her “Bella baby, if you don’t want to tell me, it’s ok.” Her eyes welled up with tears and I could see her trying to fight them back. I set down the bottle and she started talking

“Yeah, I don’t know how long it went on; I was so exhausted even when he would lift my head up, I couldn’t catch a breath. All I could think of was Charlie and how I would never see him again. Then I saw my mom and I wanted to go to her. I don’t know how I got out of the water. But I was lying on the bathroom floor.” She closed her eyes and put her head down, shaking it slightly as she talked.

“I remember hearing him say Now Bitch, and he had my hair wrapped around his fingers” tears were starting to run gown her face. “He pulled me across the bathroom floor by my hair. I was trying to get my footing, but I.....I couldn’t. We were over by the toilet, and he smashed my head on the floor. I could feel him straddling my chest. I don’t know when he took his pants off, but he was trying to force me to suck on him, but I couldn’t do it, I couldn’t breathe. He smacked my face a few times, saying Open up Bitch. I don’t know how long it went on, and I’m pretty sure I passed out. Because I next thing I remember, I was laying on my stomach. When I went to stand up, I felt nauseous and I threw up”

I sat there staring at her in horror fill shock, as she sits with her eyes closed reliving this. She continued with her recounting “I used the sink to pull myself up, and that’s when I saw the blood running down the back of my legs.”


“That mother Fucker!”

She finally lifted her head, staring straight ahead. I held her hand while she took a few deep breaths. “I didn’t know what to do. So I sat on the toilet and tried to clean myself off, the blood was making more nauseous and his fluids, oh” she shuddered “just, repulsive.”

Bella blinked a few times, when she was calmer, she continued. “So, I cleaned up, and went in to go to bed. My jaw was sore and was swelling. My upper thigh was black and blue. My rectum hurt so badly, it was burning” She took a deep breath, and left it go in a long gust.

“Where was the animal?” I interrupted; she looked at me with lifeless tear filled eyes. “He wasn’t there; I don’t know where he went. In the morning, I was so stiff and my face was swollen and slightly black-n-blue that I couldn’t go to school. James came in to the bedroom and wanted to know why I was still in bed and not packing his lunch. I went to get out of bed and he pushed me back down. Lying on top of me, he stuck his finger in my ass and told me That was the best lay he ever had from me. I was just glad I was unconscious through it. When he left, I went to take a bath, and he had broken off the nozzle, and had a patch over the hole. So I couldn’t take anymore baths.”

I just looked at her while I handed her the wine glass. “Bella, how old were you?” She took a sip of the wine. “Eighteen.” I could feel my chest heaving as I fought back the anger “How much longer did you stay with him?”

Bella closed her eyes, biting her lower lip as the muscles in her face started twitching “We were only married three months when that happened” more tears were coming down her face. I reached out and pulled her body to me, wrapping her in a tight protective hug. I kissed the top of her hair “How long were married to him Bella?”

She sniffled “I left him a year later, but the divorce wasn’t final until July 2007. So we were married almost five years.” “But you were only really with him for a year and a half?” I wanted her to clarify for me. “So the last time you were with a man was seven years ago?” She stiffened and finished her wine. Mine was already gone. Listening to that story, I should have the whole damn bottle. “Edward” she took a deep breath

“He came after you, didn’t he Bella? That’s why you don’t want to go home. When was that Bella?”

She looked at me “The day he signed the papers.” she said blankly. “And the only reason he signed the papers was because of Jake and Sam. But that’s a whole other story”

She looked at me with a sad smile. “Your sister is going to be upset, if we’re late.” I looked at my watch .damn! Then back at Bella “Do you want to go use the bathroom to...freshen up?”

“Yes please.”

I stood and helped her to her feet; I put my hands on her cheeks, cupping her face gently, before kissing her forehead. “I hope they hurt him bad Bella, because after hearing just one of your stories. I want to hunt him down and kill him. I’m so sorry you had to go through that shit” I ran my hand through her soft shinny hair “Come on, we have to get moving.” I showed her the downstairs bathroom, got her a washcloth and towel and closing the door to give her privacy.

I couldn’t believe what she had lived through. How can a man brutalize a woman like that? I was putting the case of beer into the trunk of my car, when a thought occurred to me. I like to hit women, am I the same kind of animal as James? He fucken raped her anally, what kind of sick fuck does that, and then brags and humiliates her afterwards. Yes I like anal sex, but only if she is willing, and for fucks sake conscious. Not brutal that she bleeds from it.

I was standing back in the house now, “Mother Fucker!” I said out loud. I was halfway through my tirade when Bella stepped out of the bathroom. “Are you Ok?”

She asked with concern in her eyes. She lives through a fucken nightmare at the hands of someone who was supposed to love and cherish her, and she wants to know if I’m ok.


“I’m fine Bella. Sometimes I have a temper problem.” She looked at me slightly frightened. “Don’t be scared, I don’t want you to be afraid of me. I would never hurt you, ever. It’s just for some reason, I feel drawn to you, and very protective of you.” she stared at me, I sighed “Come on let’s get moving” I picked up her duffle bag up off the front porch

“Are you sure you want me to go. I could just go home, you don’t need to feel... obligated” I looked at her for a second, trying to judge what she meat. Didn’t she want to go? Did she think I didn’t want her to come? I believed it was the latter. “I don’t feel obligated; I would like you to come.” I said as I tucked her hair behind her ears

As I opened her car door, she glanced over at my chopper; there was a gleam in her eyes. My girl liked motorcycles. “Do you ride?” she asked with excitement.

“I do.” I answered shutting her door. Once I was on my side I threw her purple duffle bag into the back seat, and started the car. I glanced at her was still looking at the bike.

“Did you ever ride?” she looked at me so full of enthusiasm, it almost made me gitty. “Oh yeah, Jake built two of them from scrap, and we would go riding around the reservation all the time. Then Charlie found out, and he nearly had an aneurysm from screaming so loud. Leah and I were grounded for a month.” She said with a giggle

. “Charlie wanted Billy, Jakes dad, to sell them or just throw them out. But Billy was more understanding. Those bikes are still in Billy’s garage.” she chuckled

‘Do they still run?”

“I don’t think so. Jake could probably get them working again. But we had a great summer that year. That was the summer before I starting dating James. I spent every day down at First Beach. That was the first time I went cliff diving.” she said with a nod.

“Cliff diving?” I didn’t know if I liked the sound of that.

“Yeah, there is this cliff that jets out over the ocean.” I was turning on Alice’s street now “How high is this cliff?” I asked cautiously. She shrugged “I don’t know fifty, sixty feet.”

“What? You jumped off a cliff sixty feet in the air, into the ocean?” I was looking at her with shock. She just beamed at me “Oh Yeah, it’s exhilarating! You should try it!”

I reached in the back for her bag; slug it over my shoulder as I opened her door. “I have to get the beer out of the trunk” she nodded as she stood looking at the house. When I joined her again, she followed me. Alice was standing in the open doorway, tapping her foot.

“What took you so long, Edward?” narrowing her eyes as she took Bella’s arm. Bella started to say something, but I cut her off. “Hey sorry, we had to walk to Bella’s feed Seth. Walk to my house, and get here, we’re only fifteen minutes late.” She sighed, “There is room in the refrigerator for that case.” She said pointing to the beer as she steered Bella through the French doors that lead to the patio.

I stuck the beer in the fridge keeping a six pack out, as Jasper was coming in. “Edward get me one of them will ya?” I got out two, twisting mine open and handing the other one to him. He eyed me “You OK man, you look a little on edge.” I shook my head “I’m fine, just needed a cold beer, it’s been quite a day so far.”

He took a drink of his beer, picked up a tray of burgers and sausages “Well, it’s only going to get better, Emmet’s on a roll out there.” I groaned “I better get out there, run some interference for Bella.” Jasper laughed “Don’t worry, Alice, Rose and Esme already threaten him with bodily harm if he embarrasses her again.” He was still chuckling as we walked onto the patio.


Everyone was sitting around the long rectangular glass table. Bella was next to Rose and across from Alice. Vinny was sitting between mom and dad coloring at the end of the table. Vinny looked up “Hi Uncle Eddie!”

“Hey buddy what’s up?” I said as I rustled his hair when I passed him, clapping my dad on the shoulder. “Hey dad” he nodded “Son, glad you’re here, Alice was going to send out a search party.” he chuckled. I bent over to kiss my mom’s cheek. “Mom”

. “Hi sweetheart”

‘Ankel Addie” Mia squealed, lifting her arms up. I picked her up out of Emmet’s arms.

‘Hey Eddie, nice bag you got there. Purple is defiantly your color.” he laughed and I rolled my eyes. I put Bella’s bag over on the bench and sat down next to her.

I put my arm on her shoulder “What you drinking babe?” She looked at me “A Margareta” I nodded “Mia did you say hi to Bella?” I asked in her ear. She put her head in my shoulder and acted shy. Jasper announced that the meat was started, and Alice got up to get the other food. Mia jumped off my lap, and followed her.

“Edward, what happened at the door, Thursday night?” Emmet asked. Bella was talking to Rose, and I was glad she was so relaxed around my family. ‘Nothing Em, three girls wanted to get in, they didn’t have passes and no one to vouch for them, so I sent them on their way.” Emmet snorted. “Tyler said one was trying to put the moves on you.” I looked at Bella, she seemed like she was half listening ‘Nothing I was interested in.” I added. Bella gave me a sly smile. Jasper announced the food was ready, and Emmet was the first one there. My mother spoke

“So Bella, Carlisle tells me you work at the center.” Alice chimed in before I could say anything “She teaches psychology at UW too.” My father looked over, ‘I didn’t know that. I thought there are only two paid position at the center?” he looked confused. Bella nodded “Yes, the director and Dr Miller. Those are the only two paid. The rest are all volunteers”

Emmet and Jasper were just sitting down with their plates. “Do you want to get some food?” I asked softly by her ear. She shivered and nodded. Alice had a fruit salad, coleslaw, pasta salad, and chips out with the burgers and sausage sandwiches. I was starving, so I got a burger and a sausage.

We just sat back down, when Rose asked how old Bella was when she married. She put a piece of tomato on her burger “Umm...it was a week after my eighteenth birthday.”

“Holy Shit!” Emmet barked “Were you knocked up?”

Bella turned red, my mother admonished him for being rude and Vinny announced to the table that ‘Uncle Emmet just said shit!” Emmet grinned at Vinny, “Don’t say that word buddy, you say poop” but then he turned his attention back to Bella, waiting for an answer.

She smirked “No, I was not.” she said with conviction. I was giving Emmet an I’m-going-to-fucken -kill-you look, when my dad told him it was none of his business. Bella sighed “That’s ok, really, everyone thought that anyway. Leah made me take a test the night before the wedding to prove it to her.” She chuckled “then she did everything she could have to try to talk me out of it.”

Alice interrupted “I would have talked you out of it, hell I would have kid-napped you if I had to.” Alice took a sip of her drink.” I only met him once or twice, but I didn’t like him.” she shuddered.
My mom tried to correct her “that’s not nice, Alice, you didn’t even know him.”

“Mother, I’m telling you. Even you would have disliked him. He gave me the creeps.”

Bella was twirling her fork in her fingers, her eyes on her plate, chewing her bottom lip. I rubbed her back, to try to ease some of her discomfort. It seemed to work, her back wasn’t so rigid. But she still hadn’t looked up.


“Where are you from Bella?” my dad asked.

“What is this, ask Bella twenty-one question.” I asked slightly irritated. My father looked at me, with a raised eyebrow.

Bella answered “I was born in Forks. It’s in the Olympic peninsula.”

“By Port Angeles?” my mother asked.

“Yes, it’s a little more than an hour west of there.”

“You lived there your whole life?” Rose asked. Bella shook her head, chewing some food. After she swallowed she answered. “No, my parents divorced when I was three, I went with my mom to Phoenix. I came back home when I was eight.”

“Your mother came back?” my mom interjected. I shot her a look.

Bella shook her head “No, she was killed in a car accident with my step-father. They were traveling to his game; he was a minor league baseball player. They traveled a lot, and I was with my Grandmother. Charlie came down, packed up most of my stuff, and a few things that were my mother’s and brought me back here.”

She looked back down at her plate. My mother put her hand over her chest ‘I’m sorry dear, I didn’t mean to pry. That must have been hard for you, growing up without a mother?” I looked at her like no-shit. Bella shrugged ‘Thank you, but really it was a long time ago, and Charlie is ... he really is a great father.” My mother glanced at me, with an apology in her eyes.

I picked up Bella’s hand under the table rubbing my thumb over the back of it. She looked at me and smiled. “I have dessert, chocolate cream or apple pie.” Alice got up to go in the kitchen, Bella’s phone rang

“Excuse me” she said as she stood up behind me. I looked at my mother again she mouthed ‘Sorry’ - I nodded, she didn’t mean any harm, but I tried to warn her. Bella was talking softly. Jasper and Emmet were talking about some game. Rose went in to help Alice I assumed. Bella said something about not now Jake, she didn’t sound happy, and then she started talking in a language I never heard before. After a few minutes, Alice and Rose were back, and Bella was sitting back down. Alice refilled her drink, she declined pie. Saying she was stuffed, I don’t know how, she hardly ate anything. It was quiet for a few minutes. I leaned over to Bella and whispered “Is everything alright?”

“Yeah, it’s just; Jake wants me to go home next weekend”

‘What was that language you were talking Bella?” Rose asked, she must have heard it when she was returning to her seat.

“Oh” Bella blushed- that is so fucking cute “It’s native American....Quylette.”

“You know native American...that’s so cool. Say something.” Jasper insisted. Bella looked at him thoughtfully, then spoke in a hauntingly beautiful native tongue.

“What does that mean?” Alice asked with interest.

“Basically, it’s a blessing, asking for peace, long life and prosperity to all who are gathered here.” I leaned over and whispered in her ear “Would you like me to change the subject?”

“Please” I rubbed her knee, I couldn’t help it, I really liked when she said please.

“Alice what have you been working on?”

She clapped her hands once loudly “Oh my god! I almost forget. Bella the other night when I came home I got this great idea for a design for you.”

‘For me?”

“Yes...listen. Ok so, I drew it out. I think I’m pretty close on your measurement, but I’ll have to get precise numbers before I start.” She was talking so fast, Bella just sat there staring at her across the table.
“What’s the basic design Alice?” Rose asked. Alice held up her hands and made an hour glass shape. “The basic piece is a hobbler dress. Then I got the idea to put the accessory pieces towards it. So all in all right now I have six pieces to the set.” She looked at Bella ‘You’ll be able to interchange the pieces and come up with numerous possibilities. Bella... Let me tell you what...you wear this piece and I guarantee everyone... will not be able to take their eyes off you.”


Bella’s voice was speculative. “Where am I going to wear it to?”

Rose chimed in “Party’s, Munch’s the club...you’re going to need something to wear girl.” Bella looked at me with wide eyes. Alice added “Edward tell her.” I smiled gently “You’re going to need something.” She pinched her bottom lip between her teeth, nodding.

“Come on, I have to put Mia in for a nap, I’ll show you what I came up with. Rose come see what you think, you’ll be able to see the vision.”

Bella looked at me, I just shrugged “No harm in looking” she sighed. Alice called Vinny “Come on sweetie, quiet time for a little bit” Bella was still sitting there “Come on Bella...I want to get your measurements”

Bella looked at Rose “Can anybody ever tell her no?” Rose laughed pulling her hand. “We don’t even try.”

“Mom are you coming? Oh and bring your suit Bella” Alice called out. My mother took Vinny’s hand. “Is this going to make me blush?’ Alice winked at our mother “Absolutely” As they were walking through the door, my father called out. “If it gets to be to much dear, close your eyes.” My mother looked at him and giggled.

Once the women were gone, we started cleaning up the leftover food. I stacked the dishes, and took them into kitchen. After scrapping them off, I loaded the dishwasher. Then I headed out to my car to get my suit and towel out of my gym bag in the trunk. I got a new beer and went out to join the men standing by the bar.

“So...Edward” Emmet began “What’s up with you and little Bella?”

I took a sip of my beer and smiled. “I don’t know, there is just something about her. She sweet, sassy and…” before I could say anything, Emmet said “sexy as hell”

I glared at him, I had this feeling in my chest. When I talked it came out like a growl “Don’t fucken talk about her like that!” My father glared at me. Emmet held up his hands “Chill out dude, I was just kidding.” Jasper eyed me. “What?” He shook his head “Nothing” and he went back to cleaning the grill. I took another swig of my beer “I’m going to put my suit on”


When I came back, Emmet and Jasper had their shirts off, and my mom had rejoined them. My father was holding a large white garment bag “You made it out alive mom, no blushing?”

“Just a little bit, I figured I would give them some privacy. When I left they were taking Bella’s measurements” I raised an eye at her, why would she have to leave for that. “I didn’t think Bella would be comfortable being naked in front of me...Not yet anyway” she added with a giggle.

I looked up at the window I knew she was behind...a naked Bella “Yooo..Superman…you can’t see through the brick.” Everyone snickered at Emmet’s comment. My father chuckled again “You ready to go dear? I want to get home and finish up that paper work.” My mother kissed Emmet and Jasper, when she kissed me she patted my cheek. ‘I like her, she’s good for you.”

“I like her too.”

We opened the hot tub, and climbed in with our drinks in hand. Jasper pressed the button on the side, and the Mariners’ game came on the TV.. “So can we seriously talk about Bella, or are you going to throw another hissy fit?” Emmet inquired. Jasper smirked.

“I didn’t throw a hissy fit. Just don’t talk about her like she’s some whore at the club, who you scene with and never speak to again.” He looked at Jasper “Six months” they shook hands “You’re on.”

“What the fuck are you ass wipes talking about?” they shook their heads “Nothing, friendly bet amongst brothers.” Jasper replied.

Emmet got serious “What’s the story with her and her ex?”

“I don’t know the whole story yet Em, but it’s not good” He got an angry look on his face “Like what happened to Rosey?” I nodded “Close, but this went on for years. Even after she left he tracked her down, fucken abused her. You know that Jacob guy from the other night?” they acknowledged “I guess he went after him, kicked his ass that time. But she’s still afraid, and that’s why she doesn’t want to go back to Forks, I’m guessing he still lives there. You should see the security system she has on the house. I swear it’s better than fucken Fort Knox.”

“What’s the asshole’s name?”

“James”

“James what?”

I shrugged “Cummings” Jasper replied.

“How do you know that?” Did Jasper know him?

“Alice told me, she said Bella’s name was Cummings when they were in college.”

The French doors opened and the girls came out talking. Bella looked a whole lot more relaxed then she did when she went in. They stopped behind the bar to refill their drinks, they were laughing about something. As they walked over to us, Bella removed the towel she had hanging over her arm in front of her body. She had on a black strapless top that stopped two inches below her bust, and a short black ruffled skirt. Her hair was loose with a few wayward strands blowing from the light breeze. She was beautiful. Jasper was talking to me, but I wasn’t listening. I was busy watching Bella from the corner of my eye as she slipped off her shoes. What she did next, made my dick feel like it was going to explode.

Holding on to both sides of her skirt, she slid it down over the front of her thighs. The matching bottom she had on barely came above her pubic bone. Showing off a tone, trim stomach between the two pieces. Then she turned around, and bent over to remove the skirt. My mouth was gaping open and I groaned at the sight of her long toned legs that led to her firm round ass. Rose leaned over and whispered something to her, she shook her head, and giggled a little, and then Rose swatted her bottom. What the fuck is that about! They see her naked before me, and Rose gets to swat her bottom first too.

I just stared at them. Because that shit aint right! Bella stood and looked at me with a smile before returning her attention back to the girls. When she stood back up the top of her suit was an open corset style with interlacing ties in between her shoulder blades. She tucked her thumbs into the back of her bottoms and adjusted it so it fit snugly against the contours of her hips.

Alice handed her the drink, and they walked over to us. I tried to act coy, by listening more closely to Em and Jaz, but I watched her walk from the corner of my eye. When they got to the edge of the tub, Rose held her hand out, so Em could help steady her. She didn’t submerge herself in the water, sitting on the edge instead. Alice handed Jaz her glass and got in. Bella just stood on the side looking out over the back yard. “Are you coming in?”

She smiled at me “Yes Sir, I am” Fuck my dick twitched, and then she pulled a hair band off her wrist. She stretched her arms up into her hair, causing her back to arch, and her breast to push out in front of my face. I suppressed a moan, but my breathing had already picked up, and between the blood leaving my brain and heading to my dick, and the heat of the water. I was feeling a little light headed.

I stood up taking another swig of beer, wiping the cold bottle across my head. “You hot there little brother?” Emmet said with a snicker. Rose giggled “You do look a little warm Edward.”

I took Bella’s hand to help her in the water, glaring at Em and Rose from behind her back. Bella sat next to Alice taking a drink of her Margareta.

“It’s not that hot Edward. I’ve been a whole lot hotter.” I looked at her blankly. She and Alice giggled. It was then I knew Isabella Swan was going to be the death of me.