Mine

Mine
A riding crop and a blindfold doesn't make it BDSM. There is a big difference between being kinky and being in the scene. It's not a sexual thing to me, it's a very spiritual thing. ~ DominaBlue

3/22/12

Chapter 86



BPOV

“Master your girl feels naked”

Edward’s eyes shifted from the road in front of us to me, taking a quick glance down my body as he smiled appreciatively “I have to agree Isabella. That dress is rather revealing”

Revealing? He wasn’t kidding.

I had known that the dress Alice made for me was very form fitting however as Charlie had pointed out I had gained about five pounds. Nothing that made me flabby or produced pouches of blubber, instead the added weight filled in my breast and added to the curves in my hips. The soft blue leather that had already been sexy became down right provocative. Pulling the soft Italian fabric over my body had turned into a major feat.

We had arrived at Emmett and Rose’s with our party clothes in garment bags, dressed in jeans and a t-shirt. It was the first time I had been in their home and the modern sleekness certainly fit Rose’s taste. The whole first floor was open yet each room was clearly offset from the others by the choice of wall coloring while the black textured cement floor ran cohesively through the whole thing. High end stainless steel appliances filled the kitchen with rich warm chestnut cabinetry surrounded by deep beige walls. The dining room was light sea foam with rich purple accents that had someone told me that color scheme I would have never thought they worked, yet together it was very striking. The sitting area was muted yellow with a large “L” shaped dark brown suede couch set and maroon chairs. So many different colors that all seemed to work together in a mish-mosh of modernism.

Rose had made a simple dinner of Baked Ziti with a salad and bread, which I watched her finish while Edward went with his brother to take our stuff upstairs. My instructions for the evening had been made clear to me in the car. While at their home we were on relaxed protocol with all rules in force and I was to always remember who I belonged to.

As if I could ever forget.

Handing Rose the bottle of wine we brought, she hugged me then smirked “I hear we are already related”

I laughed because after the initial shock of Caius’s assumptions it was just the most ridiculous thing I had ever heard “Is he crazy or what?”

“Hey don’t you be talking about me” Emmett chuckled while coming into the kitchen area with Edward following. My eyes immediately went to my Master who smiled as he gave the hand single that allowed me to continue on as I had been.
Halting the motion of tossing the salad Rose smirked “You know Emmett not every conversation revolves around you”

“Well it should” he announced making me laugh while Edward shook his head as he started opening the bottle of wine.

Rose insisted there was nothing for me to do leaving me to sit on the stool to continue watching her check the food. My bottom was slightly tingly so while we all talked more about what Aro was planning to do with what Mr. Weiss had uncovered I found myself shifting around. Placing the glass in front of me, Edward leaned in to kiss my temple and give me a stern warning “Sit still”

“Yes Sir” I whispered reaching for my drink while sneaking a peak to see if either of them had heard me.

It didn’t appear that they had or if they did neither of them cared, it was one of the best things about being around Rose and Emmett. I could openly be Master’s submissive without fear of condemnation, it made me feel venerable. That added to the fuel of desire cursing through me making the itch between my thighs from the tingle in my butt turn into a raging fire. All of that was not helping with the command of sitting still, nor was the hand Edward had snaked under my hoodie.

His large warm palm rested on my back with his thumb absentmindedly stroking my skin.  While he spoke my mind could only focus on the feel of his hand and the reason for the sizzle in my bottom that was all of a sudden causing me to grow uncomfortably wet.

OH… please give me something to do

Not really paying attention to what Emmett was saying I was struck dumb at his comment “You have to do it Bella”

“Do what?” I wondered

“Call Aro daddy” the suggestion said as if it was obvious.

My mind had been so focused on Edward’s hands and the glorious things they did to my body I had missed the whole conversation; however that idea was out of the question. Shaking my head I made it very clear “No way”

“Come on little Bell, just one time. All you have to do is say it loud enough for people to hear.”

“No Emmett.” I was not going to be feeding into all the hype or gossip. Caius could go around thinking anything he wanted to. All I wanted was to be able to go to the club and have a normal enjoyable evening.

“Dude tell her to do it, come on it would be funny as hell” he laughed while Edward shook his head and I was glad that he shared my opinion.

Not wanting to take ‘no’ for an answer – I could kind of see where Alice got it from – Emmett continued on with the scenario he had envisioned. He was going on and on about the rumors that would be flying around along with wanting to see the expression on Aro’s face from my use of the term. I continued to refuse him along with Edward who unequivocally stated “It’s not going to happen Emmett”

Thankfully Rose said the food was done, and we could finally eat. The dinner conversation focused on the next day, we were all going to Edward’s parents on Bainbridge for a large family dinner. Emmett told us Carlisle was going to pick us up at Salmon Bay Marina on his boat at one o’clock, that way we wouldn’t be bound by the ferry schedule. I wasn’t even aware that they had a boat yet I suppose when you lived on an Island it was probably a good thing to have. The rest of our conversation somehow turned to my family coming to town the following weekend and then to Edward’s birthday. That was something I made a mental note to speak to Esme about. Before long Alice had shown up with a rather large tote bag slung over her shoulder.  

Alice was anxious for us to get ready but she took a few minutes to sit with a glass of wine while we finished our meal.  Once we were all done she took her glass upstairs to get the hot rollers started while we all helped clear off the table. Working in the kitchen gave me a chance to appreciate just how high end the appliances were. The stove alone was a gourmet cook’s dream with two ovens, six burners and a built in griddle that I would die to have.

“This kitchen is fantastic Rose” I told her wiping off the drool worthy stove top while she loaded the dishwasher.  In fact the whole house was spectacular, the moderness was not my style yet I could still appreciate a nice home when I saw one.

“Thanks” she said giving the countertop a glance “I’m not sure how we’re going to child proof it once the baby comes but…”

Rinsing out the sponge I cut her off “You have some time, and I’m sure you’ll figure it out. Besides Emmett could always keep the baby entertained by singing him one little, two little, three little Indians”

She laughed while Emmett who was putting things in the refrigerator wondered “What the fuck is little Indians?”

I was shocked, how the hell could he be a daddy and not know that song “You know…” I said turning to look at him and started singing as I did the hand motions.

One little, two little, three little Indians
Four little, five little, six little Indians
Seven little, eight little, nine little Indians
Ten little Indian boys

Ending the song with my fingers spread and both hands in the air, he narrowed his eyes “Is that politically correct? To say Indians, wouldn’t that be offensive to the Native Americans?”

“Of course not” I knew lots of Native Americans and it was not something that would offend them. “Besides it’s just a nursery rhyme that daddy’s use to show counting skills along with eye hand coordination”

“Hmmm…” he mused “It sounds corny, and my son will not be singing about Indian boys, that will have to be changed to Indian girls. Then when he’s fifteen I’ll tell him what he can do with the ten girls”

Oh my god

Edward chuckled while Rose spoke before my mind could think of anything to say “You are not telling our son to have an orgy”

“Oh come on Rosie, it’s every boys dream”

“Ten?” I questioned “he’d be dead”

Emmett shook his head “Not at fifteen, he’d be tired but he’d be damn happy”

I groaned while Rose huffed “There is no way you are going to be in charge of sex education”

“Of course not…he’ll learn that from his friends and the internet like everyone else, I’ll just fill in the blanks.”

“You are not…” Rose started to say but Emmett interrupted her “That’s what father’s do”

“Did your dad do that?” I asked with a sarcastic grin

“As a matter of fact, he did” Emmett replied with such confidence that I was tempted to believe him

“Carlisle told you about orgies?”

“Noooo… that came later, in college. Along with whips, blindfolds and girl on girl action.”

“I’m surprised there was no man love occurring” Emmett’s face narrowed and I suddenly wondered if maybe there was.

“You ever been to an orgy?”

“No” I said shaking my head while Emmett nodded “Well once you go, you’ll see what I mean”

My mind started coming up with all kinds of images some were pleasant others just plain nasty, one thing I knew for certain was, there was no way I would participate in any group sex. “Yeah, I think that’s something I’d rather not know”

“Oh come on Bella, where’s your sense of adventure?” Rose asked with a laugh.

“I guess I left it in college”

Edward smirked “But all you did in college was study”

“That’s what I was there for” I had worked so hard to get my degree in the college that had at one time been nothing but a dream. So when I had gotten the chance to go, there was no way I would have been frivolous and blown the opportunity.

“And to live a little and experiment” Emmett said the word with a twinkle in his eye so I knew what he was talking about.

That just wasn’t me, and there really was no regret in how I spent my college years, which never would have included orgies. Perhaps a few parties or bonding friendships would have been welcomed but again I did what I had to do and there were no regrets. Picking up my glass I was just about to take the last bit of wine in it when the sigh escaped me.

My eyes met Edward’s at the same time the sound of the snap hit my ears while he pointed to the corner saying the one word I dreaded “Now”

Fuck, Fuck, FUCK

I stood there with wide eyes watching as his narrowed, I could feel the weight if his stare boring into me until it was almost stifling. My chest felt heavy and the dread in my stomach felt like it was doing summersaults.  I knew Edward was serious, I also knew that he had already told me the next time I hesitated he would drag me to the corner. That little scenario would have been more embarrassing then if I just went on my own. It was with that thought I kept my eyes down, not daring to look at anything or anyone except the place Edward’s finger was pointing to.

My cheeks burned from humiliation as I stood staring at the point where the two beige walls joined together. The words which I knew by heart coming out of my mouth in a quiet hush, “making irritating noises such as sighing or grumbling is…”

“I can’t hear you Isabella” The forcefulness of the statement only serving to bring more attention to my discipline.

Not able to help the reaction I huffed in disapproval causing Edward to become even more authoritative “Now you can double it”

Damn it Bella

I had been doing so well with catching myself before I sighed and although I wasn’t happy about the predicament I found myself in, I completely understood why I was in it. Master had made it very clear that during our usual time I was not to sigh, roll my eyes, grunt, huff or in any other way show discontent. It didn’t matter if the offensive action was in response to him, someone else or myself, I was to learn to control my reactions.

Standing in the corner my mind went through a barrage reasons why I was there while warring with itself for the justification of not obeying. I was a grown woman who could have said ‘No’ yet I knew that was not going to happen. The words that Jane had spoken to me all those weeks ago while I sat in her kitchen came back to me.

‘Those that think this life is easy only want the rewards and the playtime. They have no intentions of growing or changing, so when that first real punishment comes and they have to think about something other than what they want, they are gone’

This life that I had chosen to share with Edward was more than just playtime. It was my desire to be Master’s submissive in every sense of the word. I had given him my total surrender to do with me as he sees fit, knowing full well that it is always for my betterment. Because it was only through my constant attention and obedience to his needs that I could accept the changes he was making and grow to the person I wanted to become. Like a parent correcting a child, the correction Edward used was for my sake, not his.

With that revelation it no longer mattered who was in the room, or if Emmett thought it funny or Rose found me weak. I knew none of that was true. I was a strong, independent and determined woman whose sole focus was to honor her Master and remain obedient to his will.

The words began to flow from my month with assured clarity “Making irritating noises such as sighing or grumbling is rude and juvenile. If Master’s submissive is going to behave like a moody child then he will treat her like one.”

Using my fingers to mentally tick off the twenty sentences, I took a deep breath and turned around to find the room empty, except for Edward. He was sitting on the stool with his arms resting on the surface of the island patiently waiting for me to finish. Holding my gaze, he stood as I moved towards him.
Not thinking twice, the words of truth left my mouth “Thank you Master for patiently teaching your girl the correct way to serve you.”

Inclining his head he gently placed a kiss on my forehead “You’re welcome nâhtötse. The girls are waiting for you upstairs. Go” He ordered with a rather heavy swat on my butt. The action making me yelp as my bottom was overly sensitive from the attention he had given me in the playroom.

The note he had left on the door was very simple in its instructions. I was to wait for him on the chair with the cane lying across my lap wearing only my t-shirt and panties.  I knew that there was no reason to rush as Edward wouldn’t be joining me until Emmett and his uncles left, yet still I didn’t dawdle.  Moving to my closet to strip out of everything except what he had requested and then going to the bathroom so I could pee and brush my teeth. Taking a look in the mirror to make sure my hair was still decent after the nap I was struck by the reflection in the mirror.

My face was the same, heart shaped with high cheek bones, my bottom lip slightly larger than the top probably due to how often I chewed on it. My hair a deep chestnut color with subtle shades of auburn highlights that I have worn in the same style since I was a teenager, it was all so very familiar. The difference was in my eyes, I had always thought them to be mousy brown, dull and lifeless. Standing there in the stark white bathroom under the bright overhead light, I noticed a twinkle, a spark of joy that I had never seen before. It took me a few minutes to recognize what it was, then it dawn on me, for the first time in my life I was truly happy.

I could say I trusted Edward and that I loved him, yet I had said those words to another without really meaning them. They were empty statements that only caused me pain and destruction while the lifelessness in my eyes grew. The reflection staring back at me was a woman who truly meant what she said. She was a woman filled with contentment, security and most of all joy. A bliss that came from the fact that she knew the words and sentiments where true, more importantly she knew without a doubt the one who received her affections would never exploit them.

Even with my new epiphany, sitting in the chair waiting for Edward my hand stroked over the smoothness of the leather covered cane. I was slightly nervous as I wasn’t sure what he had planned. That was nothing to be ashamed of because Edward had already told me new experiences will always cause a bit of fear and that’s what was flowing through me – adrenaline spiked fear.

With my fingers skimming over the black leather my mind kept thinking back to what Pappy had said about cane play. No matter how I tried to justify it by telling me myself that lots of people do it, and revel in it, one word kept popping in my head- Pain.

I had never really thought of myself as being a masochist, pain wasn’t something I had enjoyed, if it was then I would still be with James. He was a sadist who inflicted torment for his own pleasure. No that’s not true, even a sadist can be respected by a willing partner. James was a sadistic abuser who used force and fear to control. There was no choice on my part; he seized what he wanted without any concern for my mental, physical or emotional wellbeing. He tore me down to the point of forcing me to be seen as a nothing.

Strange that with Edward it is the exact opposite, I freely lower myself in servitude to him and in that action, I become everything.

I suppose the contradiction is due to the fact that James and Edward are two men who want the same things yet they are exact opposites in both demeanor and purposes.  James took, with Edward I give. James used fear, Edward uses my desires. James attacked out of selfishness, Edward instructs out of loyalty. James was uncontrolled, Edward is always restrained. James cared only about himself, Edward places me above all others. James violated every ounce of respect I had towards him, Edward values every little bit of it.

The differences in both logic and circumstance could go on indefinitely because the men were exact polar opposites of one another. Bottom line was, with James I feared for my life; with Edward I have realized what life is.

The door to the playroom opened and I was totally shocked when Seth came over to where I was sitting. That was a new development as Edward had never allowed the dog in with us and it made me wonder why now. I was also slightly unsure as to what reaction Edward was expecting from me. Normally I was kneeling and would wait for him to address me, yet with me sitting comfortably in the chair I thought maybe I should go to him. Patting Seth on the head I rose from the chair to go present myself, glad that he seemed pleased with my action.

“Vey good Isabella. I have to admit I wasn’t exactly sure how to handle the situation, as I have never had a submissive who was not formally waiting. I also have never had a submissive in my playroom with clothes on”

The thought of other’s waiting for him was not a pleasant one, however I could push it aside knowing that there have been others in the past, but there would only be me from now on. Then I began to wonder why he request that I keep clothes on. That question was answered without me voicing it.

“I was afraid that had you been nude my control would have slipped” His hand reached out to skim the back of his fingers over my hard nipples “However I think you could be wearing a plastic garbage bag and you would make me hard

The intensity of his stare along with his words and actions made the muscles in my stomach clinch as a small moan left my throat.

“That is not helping Isabella”

Then stop looking at me like that

Taking a deep breath Edward let out a long “Hmmmm…let’s get to work, shall we?”

“As you wish Master”

The sly smile on his face made me think that he was contemplating the thought of forgoing his plans in favor of taking me right there. I wouldn’t have minded the change, yet always the restrained one he had me follow him over to the wall cabinet which house the canes.

Opening it up he turned to me, eyeing the leather cane in my hand “Before we begin I was very curious as to how you chose that particular cane”

It wasn’t a direct question so I remained quiet until the order came “Tell me Isabella”

“Last night at the club Pappy was giving a bit of a lesson in cane play. He explained the differences in material and how each one created a different strike. He then answered questions and recommended that a leather cane is the best one for the beginner Dom or submissive.  He said the leather helps to take some of the sting out of the strike.”

“I see. Did you ask the question?”

“No Sir”

“Why not?”

“Your girl would have but Pappy had already answered what she wanted to know”

“Good” That was all he said and I wasn’t sure if he meant good I had questions or good I didn’t have the chance to ask. That was something I would need to clarify, later.

“Then since you seem to have gotten a crash course I am going to ask you to pick out yet another cane, this time for me.”

Shoot

I stared at the four remaining instruments of punishment trying to think which one would best. Pappy had said Bamboo splinters and even though I knew Edward would make sure it was safe to use I decide to go with the Rattan. Taking it out of the holder that reminded me of a Pool Stick caddy, I held it out to Edward.

“Are you sure” he asked holding it level with his chest while one hand slid along the smooth length.

“Yes Sir”

“OK…come”

I followed him over to the dark corner which he illuminated by turning the knob on the wall. With the lights on I could see what he had prepared. The horse was set up with what appeared to be a type of foam pillow in the shape of ass cheeks strapped to the front of it. Seeing it, the nervousness in my stomach settled into a giggle.

Edward glanced at me with a grin “I know it’s rather amusing, but the cushy-tushy is a perfect way to practice”

Practice? Did Edward need to practice?

“Isabella look at me” there was still the dark expression of my Master, the one that can melt me with a glance, yet it was relaxed and rather playful. “We are going to have another first. During the next hour or so you are to mind your speech but I want you to speak freely, ask questions and be open with me about what you are thinking and feeling. Do I make myself clear?”

I thought about it and understood that he was telling me all protocols were suspended. The only thing I wasn’t clear about was when he said mind my speech. “Does Master want his girl to refer to herself and him in a formal manor?”

“Yes, this is still my playroom. You are not to dishonor it by being insouciant. Yet I need you to be open with me so I can gage your emotional state.”

It was one of the first and only times I could remember Edward telling me his motives, which made me think that maybe he was as nervous as I was.  Biting my lip my head nodded in agreement.

“Answer please”

“Yes Sir, your girl understands”

“Good” he once again eyed the cane in my hand “One more question before we begin. That cane you are holding, would you like to exchange it for the one in my hand?”

My eyes narrowed as I thought about what he was asking. Why would I want to swap with him? As my mind went completely blank I stared at the Rattan rod that Edward continued to stroke.

If he’s holding that one and decides to strike me with it…

OH SHIT!
“Let’s switch Master” I said quickly thrusting my leather one out to him.

“I think that might be a wise choice Isabella” the words and look he gave caused the nervousness to return.

Edward turned to face the cushy-tushy, positioning his body to stand sideways with his legs shoulder width apart. Looking over his shoulder her held out his hand to me “I want you to kneel between my legs with the cane on the floor in front of you.”

My knees and hips just fit in the open space with my shoulders pressed against the back of his legs. Edward patted the outside of his right thigh “Hug my leg and rest your head right here”

Getting into position I closed my eyes and tried to prepare for what I knew was coming. Reminding myself that I was far away from James and that I safe in the playroom with Edward. I knew in my head that he wielded a cane and not a belt still the Swish - Thwack sound caused my skin to crawl with fear. Swallowing hard I tried to push the terror down as I willed my brain to not take me to the dark places.

Clinging to Edward’s leg like he was a life preserver with my eyes so tightly clenched together they were starting to throb. The Swish through the air was deafening, the Thwack made me jump as my grip tighten around him. I was scared shitless as the next slice through the air caused my stomach to turn bringing the nauseating anticipation of the Thwack.

I was starting to feel light headed and I grasped that my breathing was out of control but I was so tense with expectation of the noise there was no way I could get it together. After a few seconds I realized the last Thwack never happened. My mind started to come back to reality as I comprehended the fact that I was squeezing Edward’s leg so tightly it was a wonder he was able to remain standing. The next thing I became conscious of was the soothing tone of Edward’s voice “Isabella…breathe…nice deep breaths…come on baby…”

The feel of his hand stroking my face along with the ease of his voice bringing me back to reality “Open your eyes Isabella….”

The tightness in my face relaxing as my eyes fluttered open while he wiped the tears off my cheeks. “Where are you Isabella?”

Taking a deep breath while looking around I answered weakly “In the playroom”

“Good girl” his thumb continued to stroke the moisture off my cheek “And who are you with?”

Loosening the grip on his leg my head tilted to gaze up at him “With my Master”

He smiled warmly as his hand stroke the contour of my jaw “That’s right nâhtötse. Take a deep breath for me” breathing in with me before saying “Now let out”

“That’s my girl” he smiled down at me as I took a few more cleansing breaths until my pulse had settled into a normal rhythm.

“Are you alright?”

“Yes Sir” my voice sounding normal

Edward tilted his head to regard me “Would you like to try again or should we call it a day?”

We were in His Playroom and he was giving me the choice, in a way I felt validated as I wondered how often that had occurred. I also wondered if part of Edward would have been happier had we quit.

Taking a deep breath I steeled myself and answered confidently “Let’s try once more”

The look of disappointment in his eyes told me I had guessed correctly, he would have definitely preferred to stop.

“Ok…but let’s try something different.”

Edward had me move forward so the back of my shoulders rested on the front of his legs. He then called Seth over to lay down with his snout on my knee. “Pet him, but I want you to keep your eyes open and watch the cane. Do not take your eyes off what the cane is doing. Do you understand?”

“Yes Sir”

The calming mundane motion of running my fingers through Seth soft fur eased my nerves. With wide eyes I watched as Edward held the cane with both hands about a foot away from his hip. He let his arms swing forward, slicing the rod through the air a second before making contact with the fake ass cheeks. The sound of the cane hitting the prosthesis caused me to flinch but the overwhelming fear was gone. Edward’s hand withdrew back and I watch his wrist stay firm as the Swish of the air occurred before the Thwack that I sat quietly for.

Getting back into his stance he started to explain “This is called American Caning. Some call it The Lazy Swing style because there are no arches or curls. It’s a straight swing” His hands moved slowly in demonstration. “The dominant always needs to mindful of where the tip is and where the cane is landing. It is absolutely necessary to always keep the rod straight as it hits the skin in an East-West direction.”

I didn’t know why he was telling me all this however his instructions were easing my tensions and I found the whole thing rather fascinating to the point where I wondered “Are there other swings Master?”

“Yes…but we refer to them as styles not swings”

Shifting the weight on is legs while rising is arms until the cane was shoulder level he went on “English Canning is done with a cocked wrist and the rod is dropped down in an arch or ‘L’ shape motion. Always making sure to keep the cane straight before striking”

As he did the motion I had to crane my neck around his leg to see the movement of his arm once again flinching at the Thwack and making Edward warn “Keep watching the cane Isabella”

“Yes Master” I realized quickly as I suspected Edward did too, that the sound of the strike wasn’t as bad if I was expecting it.  

Edward showed me few more techniques the Asian style and the Middle Eastern style both of which he explained as being very painful and usually reserved for punishment or used on masochist and pain sluts.

After giving me the basic run down fear once again ran through me at the command “Stand up Isabella”

Dread and anxiety flooded my system as he helped me to my feet and my legs started shaking at the announcement of “Your turn”

Stepping behind me I was expecting Edward to remove the cushy-tushy, instead he placed me in the same position he had been in.  Standing to the left side of the horse with my legs slightly parted “Ok Isabella use both hands to grip the handle, placing your right hand on top”

He was going to show me how to swing the cane

For some odd reason my fear turned to excitement as he placed my hands into the proper position showing me how to clinch the rod between my thumb and forefinger. He told me to allow most of the weight to be supported by those two fingers while the rest of my hand remained in a loose grasp. Once Edward was satisfied with how I was holding it he stepped back to allow me to ‘swing away.’ The first strike was rather hard creating a straight indentation in the stuffing in the fake cheeks as the cane vibrated in my hands.

Edward chuckled “That would have broken the skin”

Holding my hands he pulled them back into position and swung through while talking softly against my ear “Slow and gentle, even pain play is loving Isabella”

“It is?” The rod made contact with the same Thwack yet there was no indication as to where we had struck.

“Of course it is. This is sensual play, we are not trying to inflict punishment or lasting marks. The only thing you want to feel is the sensations.”

Oh

“So you just stand back and flail away” I said taking another swing while Edward laughed.

“Not exactly, I’m sorry if I gave you that impression. In real cane play, just like any other instrument there needs to be a warm up so the skin doesn’t get damaged”

“Warm up?” I questioned while Edward stepped in closer to me with his thighs straddling my hip as his left hand laid flat against my belly and his right hand rubbed over my pantie clad bottom.

“Yes, warm up starts with some rubbing” my body automatically leaned into his hand as it roamed roughly over my butt cheeks. His breath on the side of my face sending chills through my body as he spoke “Keep working nâhtötse”

While I went back to what I was doing Edward continued to demonstrate the process of warming up “Then you add a few tight grabs and pinches”

I couldn’t help the moan that came out when his hand firmly gripped my cheek causing my panties to suddenly become very wet. “Master?”

“Yes?”

“Then what?” yes I was practically begging him to continue.

“Well…” the smile in his voice so clear I wanted to look up him to make sure I was correct but to my disappointment Master kept his hand on my stomach as he moved to stand behind me. “…in this case I would continue the warm up with the cane. Using small taps to get you accustomed to the feel of it on your skin, like this.”

Grasping my hands he started to show me what he meant.

I was expecting him to use the tip to demonstrate the taps, instead it was rod itself “You never allow the tip to hit the skin because that holds the most force and will easily cause skin breakage. Now you try, begin with light taps over the whole surface and then once you’re ready, build up to a real strike”

He stood away from me allowing me to play and experiment with the stuffed bottom. Each quick tap almost bouncing off the cushy-tushy with the vibration of the cane emanating through my hand. I was so engrossed with what I was doing that it took me a full second to realize that my own bottom was vibrating. Then the small sting followed by a warmth that actually made me purr in pleasure. I was too afraid to acknowledge what I knew to be true. Instead opting to continue tapping the cane I was holding against the cushioned rear end until once again feeling a vibration on my bottom.

“Mmmmm” I voiced while Master ordered “Do it in a faster motion Isabella, move the cane across the whole surface. You need to get the whole area warmed up.”

Each time I stuck Edward would too. My bottom was vibrating with tingly warmth as each tap landed on a new area. The raps weren’t very hard yet the repetitive motion was causing a somewhat pleasant sting that was building a yearning in me to feel more. Afraid to actually voice my desire for fear that it might be granted, I got slightly braver by pulling my hand back to strike my cane as I wanted Edward to strike his.

The first one I landed went unreciprocated, the second one was exactly as I had intended. I felt the impact of the rod land simultaneously across the fleshly underside of both butt cheeks. The sting was unlike anything I had ever felt before. My whole body stiffened as the warmth I had grown accustomed to turned into a burning fire of pulsing throbs.

Holy Mother Fucking Hell

Liquid flooded between my thighs drenching my panties while my body shook and for some reason, I wanted to feel it again. Taking a deep breath my hand came back and a split second after my cane landed the sheering sting hit on the fullness of my butt cheeks making me cry out “OH FUCK!”

The warmth radiated through my body as the throbbing pain caused the moisture to seep down my legs. My lungs felt like they were gasping for breath while my chest expanded and contracted in exaggerated motions. The lower half of my butt felt red hot to the point where the top half was almost jealous.

Pulling my hand back Edward asked “Again?”

“One more Master, please”

I must be out of my fucking mind

Standing there I debated with myself over dropping the cane and just telling him I changed my mind. However there was something deep inside me that wanted to see it through, some kind of pride or anxious anticipation. Like standing on the cliff ready to jump off, of strapping yourself into the seat of the newest roller coaster, the fear became part of the rush.

Relaxing, my breathing settled back down into deep calming rhythem, pulling my hand back the swing connected as the sting on my butt hit exactly where I needed it to. The cane in my hand dropped to the floor while my body registered the effect in a shudder that rocked me to the core. Before I knew what was happening Edward had his arms around my waist clutching my back against his chest. Using his strong arms I sagged against him in penetrating need.

“Please…Master…please…” Not even sure what I was asking for.

As always Edward knew exactly what to do.

His one hand began manipulating my nipple, pulling and tugging while the other slipped into the front of my panties sliding trough my folds “Fuck Isabella, you’re drenched”

No shit

Two fingers plunged inside me while his thumb moved in a milking motion over my still tender clit. It didn’t take very long before I cried out in explosive pleasure. The orgasm came quick and strong making my body shake against his chest while his hand drew out every ounce of bliss they could.

 As the fog started to clear I heard my own voice thanking him, for what I wasn’t exactly sure. For helping me face my fear, for the red hot feeling radiating through my bottom or for the overwhelming orgasm that I seemed to so desperately to need. Maybe it was all three, I didn’t know nor care.

The next thing I became aware of was we were laying down on the bed, Edward had me tucked safely against his side while he stoked my back and made shushing noises “Shhh…you did great baby. I’m so proud of you”

Clinging to his shirt I tried to remember how we had come to lay down, the last thing I could focus on was his hands on my and then …nothing.  My body was shivering even snuggled against his with a blanket over me. I was slightly confused as I asked “Master?”

“Shhh…I’m here Isabella. Just calm down, you’ll warm up in a minute and then I’ll take care of your bottom”

My bottom?  It felt fucking burning red hot

“Hmmm...” I hummed against his neck while he asked “Are you alright? What do you remember?”

“Ummm…the last strike, your hands, so wet…cumming…then…nothing.” Snuggling in closer I admitted “your girl hit subspace”

“She sure did” I felt the kiss on the top of my head “You did fantastic, were you afraid?”

“Only in that…yummy kind of delicious fear, but that last one did me in”

“That was a full swing Isabella”

Pulling back I needed to see his eyes for conformation I had heard him correctly “Really?”

“Really”

I was damn proud of myself and judging from the look of awe in my Master’s eye he had been proud of me too. The burning in my ass was just a sweet reminder of how my trust and love for the man allowed me to overcome the fears that had held me down. I wasn’t exactly sure cane play would be something I wanted to participate in on a regular basis, because let’s face it – it hurt like hell. But I also knew that when the time came Edward would walk me through it the same way he had done earlier.

Reaching the top of the stairs he motioned to the closed door “They are in there waiting for you.”

My soft knock was greeted with Roses voice “Get your ass in here”

Edward once again swatted my butt making me whimper causing him to grin “I like that sound Isabella”

Evil Bastard

Rose was sitting on dressing table bench wearing nothing but her bra and underwear while Alice stood behind her rolling her hair up in ginormous curlers. My garment and cosmetic bag sat waiting on the end of the bed. Alice glanced over at me “You’re late, start doing your makeup and I’ll help you with your hair when I’m done here”

Going into the bathroom to pee and wash my face I came out to start getting ready and Alice told me I should strip down to my underwear so my clothing wouldn’t smudge my face or ruin my hair. Taking off my jeans and tee-shirt I moved to the vanity mirror and heard the gasp “Holy hell what happened to your ass”

“OHHH…someone got canned”

Turning around in the mirror I took in redness on my butt. It was still so hot even after Edward cooled it with a cloth and used the lotion that I put on a thong, which allowed the pinkness to really show. Looking at it closely I could see one lasting faint line from Edward’s last strike.

“He hit you with a cane?” Alice sounded sickened.

Glaring at her I was going to remind Alice of our earlier talk when Rose spoke up. “It’s none of your business just like those hooks hanging from your bed frame are none of ours”

The statement wasn’t something I was expecting to hear so I wondered “You have hooks…”

“Not those kinds of hooks....just small little eye hooks” clearly not wanting to talk about it, Alice went back to Rose’s hair.

Starting on my face I wasn’t going to let it go “So what are the hooks for?”

Both women met my gaze in the mirror and I wondered “Does Jasper tie you up?”

“NO” Alice’s voice was final while Rose snickered “Liquid flows better from a height”

Tapping the excess face powder from the brush I froze as I thought about what Rose meant.

Liquid? What the hell do you need flowing liquid in the bedroom for?

Seeing my confusion Rose reached around to pat Alice’s butt “Jasper likes a clean orifice”

I gasped “You kinky little bitch”

She had the nerve to look cocky “I’m not the one standing here with a flaming red ass”

I could give Alice that much but still, here she is acting all holier-than-thou when she calls Jasper daddy and participates in enema play so she’s clean for anal sex. Holding the mascara wand to my eyes a thought occurred to me. “So Alice, are you tell me that Jasper has never spanked you while he’s tapping your ass?”

“That’s different”

Shaking my head I grinned at Rose as she interjected “How is that different?”

“Well for one it’s in the heat of the moment and for another I don’t end up with a red ass the next day”

“Next day?” I questioned rubbing my hand over my cheeks “This just happened a few hours ago”

“Jesus Christ, are you two insatiable? You’re not going to do this when my child is there are you?”

I could have been a bitch instead choosing to be the bigger person “No…Tuesday night not part of our… usual”

Rose laughed and Alice rolled her eyes “Ususal? Do I even want to know?”

“Probably not” I assured her with a grin feeling rather vindicated. Alice and Jasper can deny all they wanted but it was very clear that they were closet kinksters who would rather be judgmental then admit the truth. That was ok with me; I could accept them for what they are and love them in spite of themselves. If that makes me arrogant, so be it. At least I knew the truth and had absolutely nothing to be ashamed of or to have to justify.

Rose’s hair was done and we traded places, Alice pulled my hair out of the pleat I had placed it in after my morning shower. The natural waves the braid created disappeared as Alice worked the straighter through. The topic of conversation had changed to Mike Newton and Karen. Both women were as worried as Edward was about the stability of my would-be stalker. Personally I had never done anything to the girl, I barely remember her and there was not one thing I could think of that she would want with me. I elaborated a bit more of Edward and my run in with Jessica at the store and what she said.

Alice was the one who voiced the question I didn’t want to think about “Do you think that your ex-husband is involved?”  

God I hope not

Wanting to alleviate her worries I blew it off “I doubt it, he hasn’t been around me in years”

Even as I said the words I remembered Charlie telling me that the only reason James is staying away from me was because he worried about being prosecuted for attacking me. My father was right; as long as I held the DNA over his head I had leverage. Once the statute of limitations was up…

I didn’t even want to think about it.

Alice’s voice broke through my musing “Well you just be careful Bella. That Karen girl sounds unstable and if she is in cahoots with your ex-husband. My god… Edward would freak if something happened to you”

“Gee and here I thought you were telling me you loved me” I joked

Alice stopped twisting my hair to meet my eyes in the reflection of the mirror “You know I love you”

I smiled reassuringly “I know” And I did, the whole Cullen family has accepted me in to their family with open arms.

My hair was twisted into some kind of knot like ponytail with all the length hanging down the middle of my back. Alice wanted to get my dress on before doing the hot rollers, because she wanted me to practice sitting again and she didn’t want to mess up my hair with the tugging and pulling. It turned out she was correct.

It took both her and Rose plus a good amount of baby powder to get the hobble dress over my head and down my body. I had absolutely no idea how the hell I was going to get out of it and when I asked Rose just smirked “Don’t worry, Edward will get you out, even if he has to cut the thing off you”

Great

Sticking my hands inside the front of the dress I adjusted my boobs noticing how they spilt out of the top while Alice stuck her hand up my thigh to pull down the hidden zipper. As she did the bottom half of the dress squeezed around me like a vacuum packed seal.  Alice had me put on my shoes to practice walking and sitting down which didn’t seem as difficult as I had remembered. She had just finished putting the last roller in my hair when there was a knock at the door.

Alice cocked the door open just enough to see who it was and for me to hear Edward tell her that he had something for me. Refusing to allow him entry – which I thought was totally silly – I mean really it’s not like it was our wedding day – she took the small jewelry box from him. I had no idea what was in the small blue velvet box.

Opening it up Alice groaned in disappointment at the pearl hair combs but my heart soared “These are my collar combs”

“What?”

“Master gave me these to wear the night he collared me”

“Do you want to wear them?”

Was Alice crazy?

“Of course I do, they are special and more important Master wants me to wear them”

My hair was finished and Alice tucked the two combs into place before giving me one more round of hair spray. Even nearly six months pregnant Rose looked stunning in the silver empire waist dress that hugged her body with sheer over laying Organza that obscured her growing belly.

“Rose, you look fantastic”

“Yeah, well no one is going to be looking at me. Girl you are fucking hot”
Taking a glance in the full length mirror I stood in awe of what I was seeing. There was not one thing on my body that was not visible, including the small patch of pubic hair which seemed to puff out.
Not even thinking about it I asked Alice to unzip me and Rose for a razor as I headed into the bathroom. Three minutes later I was re-zipped and completely bare; it was only after the deed was done I thought about Edward’s response.

Several weeks ago he had asked me to remove it and I baulked at the idea. That patch of hair has always been crutch for me; it was a reminder of my freedom. The self-security I had fought so long to gain, my independence from a man who sought my oppression. Standing there looking in the mirror at the smoothness of my Pubic Mons then moving my eyes to the Edward’s collar around my neck - I knew I was owned and yet I had never felt so free

2/22/12

Chapter 85


EPOV

Bella held on to me squeezing her body to mine with a death grip around my neck that she didn’t seem to want to release. Truthfully I didn’t want her to either. Burying her face in my neck she took in a shuddering breath as her arms became impossibly tighter and I rubbed my cheek against hers making shushing noises.
The overwhelming feeling of relief we both felt was coming out in Bella’s emotions however at that moment letting them out in the form of tears was not in our best interest. Too many curious eyes upon us yet I couldn’t think of anything to lighten the mood. The resounding “EWWW” from the boys in the pool was exactly what was needed. 

We both chuckled as I whispered in Bella’s ear “Give them ten years”

She didn’t say anything, just nodded her head against my neck with a little giggle.

“Look at me Isabella” lifting her head she was practically chewing on her bottom lip as our eyes met.

“I love you nâhtötse” she smiled widely yet still remained quiet and it took me a second to realize what the problem was “Speak to me”

“Love you too”

The small kiss was met with a loud drawn out “Groooooss

Bella blushed as I set her back on ground as I assured her “I’m telling you, ten years”

“If that” she added then gave me a meaningful look “Your girl made a mistake”

Nodding I cupped her cheek “We’ll talk about that at home”

Bella nodded in agreement and my eyes moved to see Shelly scrutinizing our exchange with intense curiosity. Turning away from the annoying woman I placed a hand on Bella’s back to lead her to the pool. Jasper shook my hand asking about the golf game and Alice yelled down from the deck that it was time for everyone to get out. There was a lot of disgruntled noises and a few of the boys continued playing while the others made their way out. Bella helped a few of them with towels while Jasper warned the stragglers. Once they were all out Bella followed them up the stairs while I helped Jasper clean up the scattered juice boxes, giving him a rundown of the game.

“So are you going to play again?”

“Yeah, next Friday morning” Jasper wasn’t too happy about the time or date because he would be working. 

There was nothing I could about that yet I did feel bad “Maybe you can join us the next time”

Up on the deck the boys were all redressing in their T-shirts and sneakers ready to head back down into the yard so they could run around until their parents arrived. Bella was helping Alice and the other mother with tying shoes and folding wet towels. The deck was fairly clean except for a few baskets of snack food Alice let out along the row of tote bags. Jasper went to get rid of the garbage giving Shelly a chance to come talk to me.  

“How are you Edward? I haven’t seen you for a while”

“I’ve been busy” That was an honest enough answer

“So I see. I didn’t know you were seeing anyone. I always thought you didn’t do the girlfriend thing”

The girlfriend thing?

Yeah that was me, although I couldn’t remember ever actually saying that in my conversations with Mrs. Nunez. Maybe she just inferred from my lack of female companionship that I had no one special in my life. Rather than being annoyed at her presumption I found it to be rather flattering and her next question made me downright gitty.

“So is it serious?”

Was it serious?

Looking over at Bella my heart swelled, she was the most serious thing I had ever had in my life. High School, College, Med School, Career placement or a lifetime of hopes and dreams all boiled down to one person.
Was it serious? I couldn’t give a definite response but I knew damn well I was serious about her. Before I could reply Vinny came barreling over stopping just short of running into me “Uncle Eddie am I still sleeping at your house? Aunt Bella said I had to ask you”

“If your mom says it alright”

“She don’t care but can Seth sleep with me? Aunt Bella says he sleeps with you’s and I want him to sleep with me, Can he?”

Shifting my focus to Bella who was pretending to not be paying attention I could see the amusement on her face. My girl was staking her claim and I might as well reiterate it for her.

“If aunt Bella says its ok then I guess you’re sleeping at our house. And we’ll see about Seth, he won’t scare you will he?”

The little man looked at me like I just told him there was no Santa Claus “No, he’s not scary.”

“Alright…then I guess it will be ok as long as Seth doesn’t mind” The dog always slept in the same room as us. I wasn’t sure how he would take the separation, we could try but ultimately that would be Bella’s call. 

Vinny however had no qualms “He won’t, Seth’s my friend”

He ran down the stairs with the rest of his little friends once again leaving me with Shelly and I couldn’t help but bring up the subject “Now what did you ask me?”

I knew damn well what she was questioning but I wanted to make it sound like her inquiry was of no consequence. Apparently my assumption was wrong as she took a half of step closer to me and spoke conspiratorial “Scott is out of town until next week, the kids are going to be away I thought you could join me tonight for a drink”

Even if Bella wasn’t in my life, never in a million years would that scenario have played out. I don’t date, play or associate with another man’s wife. My ideas of sexual freedom come to a complete halt with a wedding ring. I might believe in everyone doing as they please but that also includes my own choices and that was a line that should not be crossed.

“Shelly I don’t get together with married women..”

“I’m only married in name”

“Yet still very married, besides your original question was is my relationship with Bella serious, and the answer to that is yes…it is very serious”

“As in she is …what?”

My eyes narrowed at the audacity of the woman yet I still found her question to be rather amusing and I made it very clear what Bella is to me “As in, Bella is my life, and she is all I could have ever asked for”
It was as if she had never in her life heard someone talk of love; Shelly’s face turned to stone cold hardness 

“Too bad, we could have had fun”

“I doubt it” I said walking away towards Bella.

“Are you ready baby?”

She stood looking around to see if there was anything else she could help with before answering “Yes as long as Alice doesn’t need me anymore”

I was more than sure my sister could handle everything especially since it appeared like mothers were starting to arrive to pick up their children. Bella said good-bye to Vinny and gave one of the other boys a high five “Thanks Andy I’m going to practice that spit ball”

Spit ball?

Another mother appeared and Bella said good-bye to Stephanie, the woman whose name I didn’t know then called out to Shelly “It was nice to meet you”

I doubt Bella actually felt that way yet my girl was nothing if not polite. Shelly rolled her eyes giving her a curt ‘Yeah’ before calling down into the yard for her son. I escorted Bella into the house where Alice was talking with yet another parent. We said our quick good-byes to Jasper with an added ‘see you tomorrow’ while my sister hugged Bella thanking her for volunteering. Alice reminded us she would see us later at Emmett’s and we left.

Bella seemed rather edgy on the ride home so to help ease the tension I asked her about the conversation she had with Alice. I had been right; she in no uncertain terms told my sister that her actions were unacceptable. Pulling up into the driveway Bella had finished with the story and was chewing nervously on her bottom lip. 
Getting out of the car to open her door she tentatively took my hand as if she was afraid.

Tugging her hand I pulled her to me, cupping her face with my palm “What’s the matter nâhtötse?”

I didn’t want her to be afraid of me or the talk we were going to have to have. There was definite worry in Bella’s eyes as they looked up at me through her lashes. “This girl is afraid you are mad at her for telling off your sister”

Completely taken off guard for the real reason of Bella’s anxieties I was unable to hold it the chuckle “Oh Isabella…mad is the last thing I would be. Alice was behaving in the most inconsiderate manner. I was going to tell her about it but she said you already did. So I was just wondering what you said, that’s all”

“So you’re not mad about it?”

“No…in fact I’m rather proud that you stood up for yourself and when it comes to my sister that’s always a good thing. Alice is accustomed to people catering to her whims, I love her but she is a bit spoiled”

Dropping my hand from her face I shut the car door and started walking towards the house “It’s best to set the ground rules down right away with Alice. But like I said she’s use to getting what she wants without anyone questioning her so…”

Opening the front door I noticed the cane Bella had selected leaning against the wall. Bella following my gaze went over to pick it up she stated “She doesn’t do that to Rose”

I laughed “She tried; but it didn’t take her long to realize, Rosalie isn’t one to be pushed around”

“And this one is?” she stated turning on me with a glare.

I raised one eyebrow in warning “No…it’s just…” Taking her free hand to lead the way into the kitchen I explained what I meant.

“You exude submissiveness; and I’m sorry to say that some people will take that as weakness and will try to intimidate you. I however know for a fact that is bullshit and I expect you to stand up for yourself when someone, anyone, tries to take advantage of your natural nature.”

Holding out the kitchen chair I motioned for her to sit once she did I kissed the top of her head and added “That Includes my sister”

Seth had come out of nowhere demanding attention, while Bella spoke to the dog I got out a bottle of water for me along with a glass of cranberry juice for her. Before sitting down I opened the back door letting him out for a bit. Bella eyed the glass of juice, she hadn’t complained earlier when I gave it to her but the way she was looking at it made me wonder.

“You don’t like Cranberry?”

It didn’t really matter if she did or didn’t

“No Sir…I like it. You normally don’t give me juice as a drink”

“Well…” I said taking my chair at the head of the table “…you had a rather active night with a lot of fluid being expelled from you…” her blush so pleasing I wanted to see if it would deepen“…not to mention the way you were grinding against the wand.”

And yes there it was

Bella’s face turned into an almost deep red making me grin “With all the extra liquid it’s possible that some seeped into your urinary tract and I don’t you to get an infection. So the cranberry juice is a kind of preemptive holistic treatment to help remove any bacteria that might have found its way into the urethra.”

“Oh” she said taking a drink from the glass while I twisted the lid off my bottle

“Oh?” I chuckled before taking a long drink then asked “which reminds me, how does it feel. You were a little tender this morning when I touched you, is it better?”
I would have checked myself but there was nothing to see nor was there any kind of ointment to apply to help ease the discomfort.

“Ummm”

“Um is not an answer Isabella”

“It’s still a little tender; it feels like a black and blue mark when it’s touched. But it’s better”

I nodded “It’s the erectile tissue”

“Erectile tissue?” Bella asked like she had never heard of it “Like a penis?”

“Yes” Did she not know how her own body worked “The clitoris is very much like a penis, it has underlying erectile tissue which engorges with blood and an extremely sensitive external gland like the head of the male counterpart.”

 That made me wonder “Why are you touching it?”

“When I go to the bathroom…I need to wipe” 

Oh…that made sense.

She was chewing on her lip with so much force I was afraid she was going to hurt herself. Rubbing my thumb along her bottom lip I wanted her to stop worrying “Isabella we are at the table, say what you need to say”  

Holding my gaze she said quietly “I messed up…again” as she said the word again her eyes dropped as if she was ashamed. I didn’t want her to feel that way.

Lifting her chin with my thumb I needed her to understand “That’s ok Isabella. This is a learning experience that allows you and me to see where we were and where we want to go. Then like any other journey we set our course and work our way there.”

Tears welled in her eyes “I’m so selfish”

“No baby…not selfish” I said wiping the puffiness under her eyes but as I thought about it I changed my answer.

“Maybe a little bit selfish. But no more than any other person would be. It’s a natural human trait to think of your own pleasure. As a submissive you are being asked to take that away and give it over to me. That takes time, which had you been struggling or not cable of handling yet, I would have given you the benefit of the doubt. But for you to challenge me and blatantly disregard your training because you didn’t feel the need to obey, well that’s altogether something different.”

“So I deserved the punishment?”

That was not what happened and by the tone of her voice Bella knew it “Were you punished?”

“No” she shook her head and I sat back in the chair to take another drink waiting to see if she would continue “It was a lesson…”

I corrected her “It was a demonstration. Punishment is done to correct bad behavior, a lesson is done to show you the error of your ways. And a demonstration is done so you can have all the facts before making an informed decision”

I gave her a moment to let that sink in before adding “Everything we have done so far Isabella has been a demonstration. You came into this relationship with me a virgin to a D/s lifestyle. You had an idea what you would enjoy but having no real experience you couldn’t be sure. So I have spent the better part of the last two months giving you a small taste of as many experiences as I could. Now why do you think I did that?”

Bella thought before answering “So I could see what was enjoyable…”

I nodded “And what was not. There are things we encaged in that I don’t necessary enjoy…”

“Really?” She interrupted making me chuckle “yes really. But you needed the experience to see if you did. I told you there are hard limits I do not cross, ever. All the rest is open for debate so we play around with the edges and devour what we crave. Those things I don’t partially enjoy are still acceptable to partake in because you enjoy them and I can get pleasure out of watching and participating in the activity for you. Seeing you satisfied is one of my greatest joys Isabella. You have no idea how much I get off just watching you lose yourself knowing that it is because of me”

Bella thought about that for a moment before asking “Would you really have changed what we do…I mean you said it was my choice…”

“It is your choice. I can’t force you to do anything you refuse to do. I’m not a tyrant but you can’t tell me you want to totally surrender to me and then refuse to do it. You either do or you don’t. And if you don’t want to, or you’re not ready to do it yet…that’s ok…”

“But I am ready…it’s just …I just…”

She didn’t want to admit it “You were afraid”

“No…”she denied quickly.

I tilted my head taking in the woman before me who fought for her safety and sanity for so long she didn’t want to admit to any weakness including fear. I needed to think of a way to make her see that it was a natural instinct to fear the unknown.

Tapping the top of the table I asked “Do you remember the first time we sat here, in the exact same spots we’re in now?” she nodded “You told me that on the level of submission you were somewhere between a five and a six…”

Bella’s eyes narrowed as she tried to figure out what I getting at “If I asked you right now where you were on that number line would you say you were closer to five or six?”

She hesitated for a moment before answering “Six”

I nodded “I would agree with you. Due to experience and a deeper understanding of your needs it becomes a natural progression to want to give more of yourself to me. And baby I’m all too happy to pick it up but I that doesn’t mean I’m not a little leery.”

“You’re afraid?” she gave me a doubtful look and I couldn’t lie to her

“No baby it doesn’t scare me, it does however make me want to be more cautious. With added control comes more excitement but also a lot of extra responsibility. I’m an alpha-male Isabella with tendency’s that lead me to want to take, control and conquer. The more you are willing to give, the more I am willing to take. If you told me that you wanted me to control how many strokes you make with your toothbrush, I would be all too happy to accommodate.”

“What does that have to do with being leery?”

I took a deep breath “Each little step towards a deeper submission on your part excites me to no end, yet it also places on me the challenge of not only taking you there but making sure you are happy and fulfilled without stifling your personality. That all boils down to moving at your pace, if it was up to me we would have already been there and back. You’re the one who takes the lead, telling me what you’re ready to give and what you are not. Change is inevitable, your trust, understanding and desires are going to cause a natural progression to move into a deeper submission to me. You saw for yourself how your limits changed and that was only in a short amount of time. Now imagine five, ten, fifteen years down the road how much more you will be eager to give.”

Bella’s eyes crinkled with worry and I knew what the problem was “That’s what scares you”

Her eyes bore into mine and I had to wonder “Why does that worry you?”

I could see the workings of her mind; the thoughts were there she just needed a push to get them out. That I could give her

With a stern voice I demanded “Isabella, tell me”

In a matter of a second a barrage of emotions past over her face while I waited to hear what was causing her fears. Just as I was going to once again stress my point her eyes dropped to the table top as she started to speak “I love Jane…”

Placing my thumb under her chin I lifted “Now talk to me”

She sucked in a deep breath making me raise one eye in warning of the impending sigh. Bella caught it letting the air out in a quiet exhale and I smiled in approvable while she began again “Jane is wonderful, she’s…she’s simply the best and I love her…but …I don’t want to be like that. That’s not how I picture myself being…a …a slave”

Ohhh…

“You won’t be…” I tried to assure her but instead she interrupted “How can you say that when you’re so sure that in years to come I’m going to give up more and more of myself?”  

“Come here” tugging her hands to make her sit in my lap where she settled in with her back against my chest and my chin on her shoulder “Jane is a remarkable woman and I’m also afraid that she is a rare kind. I’m going to say that there are very few, true slaves out there in the world. She is the extreme and I know for a fact you will never be a true-slave.”

I kissed her cheek “You my pet…”

The pout came out making my dick hard as she turned her head to look at me “I like nâhtötse”

“Do you now?” She nodded in that little girl innocence “Uh..huh”

“Well then nâhtötse…”placing a kiss on the side of her lips “…you are a submissive and you might be leaning towards a six on the scale but I highly doubt you will ever surpass that level. Because it’s who you are and changing it would be like trying to change the color of your eyes. You could get contacts to cover up the brown and change them to brilliant red, but underneath they will always be the most beautiful shade of rich milk chocolate I have ever seen.”

Her head cocked to the side like she was trying to decipher my meaning “In other words…”

“In other words, you can play at being a slave and that might be fun for a few days. But you could never be one for any length of time, because it’s not in you to be”

“But you said I was drawing deeper and…I feel that draw to surrender more.”

How could I explain this to her

A train of thought came to me “You played the clarinet?” at her nod I requested “Answer please”

Bella smiled “Yes Master I did”

“What was the first thing you learned to play on it?”

“Scales”

“The basics…” I clarified “…and then what?”

“Twinkle Twinkle little star”

“And then you never learned anything else right? You just kept playing the same song over and over”

Bella turned slightly in my lap to face me “No of course not. I learned more songs, got comfortable with what I learned then practiced harder so I could play more challenging pieces.”

I stared into her eyes willing her to understand and I could see the light bulb go off in her mind.

“You’re sneaky”

“I am” freely admitting it

“Do you see what I’m saying now? About how it’s a natural progression to reach a level then go a little further. But that doesn’t change who you are inside…”  I said pointing at her chest “You will always be my girl, the one I love, the slut whose submission gives me so much fucking joy I just want to take everything she’s willing to offer. My girl who over time will become more practiced and her desire will be to challenge herself with harder more in-depth tasks. She will then come to me with a request to take control over another aspect of her life. That’s what I mean by a deeper submission, not a higher level just a more selfless existence. Your thoughts will not be what I’m taking they will be what can you can give to me. Each new aspect will be met with a challenge and a slight bit of apprehension because it is a new experience. That’s natural Isabella yet you can’t let that hold you back from fulfilling your desires or your destiny. That’s how you were living before, with something inside you screaming to come out. Now you opened the lid of the box and …”

 She eyed me “Pandora’s box”

“Sort of” I agreed tightening my hold around her waist while I growled into her ears “I do have evil things planned for you”

Bella giggled while her fingers moved lightly from my wrist to elbow “So then this morning when you said you were frustrated, it was because…”

“I told you why. You tell me one thing either with subliminal signals you give off or with actual vocal admissions, and then your actions totally contradict what you say. I don’t know if we’re up, down or sideways sometimes and for a man like me, that’s very frustrating. If you tell me to take the reins then be prepared to go down the path I choose. However if you don’t want to…”

“Did you mean what you said about changing the course of our relationship?”

“You should know by now Isabella, I mean everything I say”

Dropping her eyes into her lap she spoke quietly “I don’t want to change anything”

Using my thumb I once again lifted her head so she would look at me “I didn’t think you did. On the off chance that was what you decided to do. I was seriously hoping it wouldn’t last too long because I am very happy with the way thing are.”

“So am I”

The sad smile on her face broke my heart and I kissed it away “Don’t be sad nâhtötse; this is a learning experience for both of us.”

Bella nodded and I nudged her back telling her to get up off my lap “Sit down, finish your juice”

“Yes Sir” She took a drink while taking her seat, setting it down she glanced at me “Can I ask you something?”

“Absolutely”

 She took a deep breath while her fingers skimmed over the glass before meeting my gaze “You said ‘you wouldn’t have allowed me to cum that much’ what did you mean by that? Did you want me to safe word?”

My eyes narrowed at the assumption “No…did you feel the need to safe word?”

Worry started to plague my mind as I thought about the night before. Bella was uncomfortable, I was definitely pushing her limits, but she was not in any danger nor did seem afraid

“I didn’t think so?”

What the fuck does that mean?

“What do you mean think? Were you afraid?”

There was a slight hesitation in her reply “Well…the first time you woke me up…”

I knew I had startled her, which was why I immediately allowed her to hear my voice “I’m talking about on the ball. That was part of the session you had control over, were you at any time afraid while on the ball”

The answer came immediately “No” 

I relaxed slightly glad that I had not misread her body language “Then were you in extreme duress or pain?”

Bella contemplated for a moment - the longest fucking moment of my life – before answering “No…it wasn’t…I mean, the endless vibration was driving me insane and the nerves in my legs were starting to go numb…I didn’t exactly like it…”

She wasn’t really supposed to like it…after the first two or three, forced orgasms are not fun.

“…the wand kept vibrating and I kept thinking there is no way I could take another orgasm. Each one seemed to be stronger and I didn’t really want to cum anymore…but …”

The hesitation she made caused me to wonder “But?”

Pink warmth flooded her face the blush so deep it went all the way down her throat “But…the actual release felt so good…oh my god…it was torture to get there…but then once I came…it was mind-blowing”

“Mind-blowing?” grinning as I asked for conformation, which I got in the form of a nod “Like out of body, can’t form a thought, take me to another world, best fucking feeling I have ever had”

Grinning she called me on it “Just a little smug?”

Smug?…damn right I was

“I knew they were good when you started talking in tongues and cuming by the bucketful” grinning wider as the blush returned “and the last one on the bed”

Bella’s face fell “Oh…my poor little mouse…”

“Little mouse?” I asked with a chuckle

“Yes…” Bella insisted “…my little mouse…it was soooo sensitive and the nerves were …I can’t even describe it…all I know is that wherever your finger was it felt good the rest of it…burned…like…raw nerve…burned. And I didn’t want to give in; I kept trying not to cum…”

“Why would you do that?” it seemed silly to me, just give in and be done.

“I don’t really know all I kept thinking was ‘not again’ and then…I can’t even describe that orgasm”

Narrowing my eyes I thought back to the original question “so if other than being uncomfortable and not exactly enjoying the in between orgasm time. Why would you have needed to safe word?”

“I just thought because of what you said about not allowing me to cum so much that maybe you wanted me to.”

“No Isabella” this needed to be straightened out “It’s my job to push you put never past your limits. At times that is a fine line I walk but I never want to push you so far that you feel the need to say ‘red’ during a scene. Yellow should always come first, red is reserved for an absolute point of no return".

I could see the question forming in her mind 

“Has it happened before?" I asked for her, then answered "Yes it has, but only once.”

At her narrowed eyes I went on to explain. “Because no matter how safe I think you are or how much care I take in making sure you are properly placed and the equipment is maintained. Sometimes things will go wrong, or perhaps an illness will suddenly come on you, or you will experience server emotional or physical pain. That is when you are to call out ‘red’ when for whatever reason you cannot remain for one more second. I’m also watching you Isabella, during any playtime I am constantly monitoring you to gage how much further I can go. Last night you were pushed to your limit but I didn’t think it went past them. Do you feel you did?”

“No…but I was close”

I nodded “like I said a fine line”

Bella took another drink then her eyes widened in wonder “Did I really cum eleven times?”

“No” not sure where that number came from I told her the count “I was shooting for ten, but there was only eight”

Bella narrowed her eyes as if she was angry “Then why did you tell me I owed you eight this morning, because you already had three …”

Oh that’s where the number came from

Shrugging I laughed “I picked a number”

“You…” she stopped herself but I just had to goad her, grinning slyly I asked “Are you terribly angry with me?”

“I can’t believe you lied…”

That idea had to be immediately dismissed “I didn’t lie…I said you owned me eight and you would have. I could have very well picked twenty-five and you would have paid up.”

That seemed to take the wind out of her sails, pointing to the half empty glass I told Bella to ‘drink’ while I finished explaining what I meant. “When I said, I wouldn’t have allowed you to cum that many times, there was no hidden message. It was a simple statement of fact, there was not a chance in hell I would have let you be that greedy.”

“How would you have stopped me? I couldn’t even stop myself”

“Isabella I watched you grind against that wand like a cat in heat, you didn’t want to stop yourself. The only time you tried to hold back was on the bed. Now I don’t know it that was exhaustion or tenacity, either way it was your privilege to hold out, it was also my privilege to make you cum one last time…and I won”

“You always win” she said disgruntledly.

“Yes” I admitted before asking “would you want me to lose? If I broke my word, even with something that insignificant, could you trust me to keep it with something larger?”

Thinking before she answered Bella shook her head “No…it’s better if you win. Because I always know I can trust you and what you say to be the truth.”

I glanced over at the clock seeing we only had a half hour before my uncles and Emmett were to arrive I pushed on “You said it scared you when I woke you”

“Just for a split second, until I heard your voice and saw where I was…”

That was why I spoke; I didn’t want Bella to be afraid it could have caused a whole different set of problems.
“…I knew you would never hurt me and even though I couldn’t move…” her eyes narrowed slightly “…being pinned to the bed like that…”

“How did that make you feel?”

“Used…”

I could understand that which also makes me know that Bella is not a true-slave as that is something they enjoy immensely.

“You didn’t like that, being nothing but an object for me to get off on” I wasn’t asking her, it was clear that Bella found no pleasure in the action.

“No…or being covered in your cum…it was…degrading”

Nodding I agreed with her, yet it was an effective means of making my point and as degrading as it might be for her, it would probably be something I utilized again.

“It was a long night” I said picking up the water bottle

Bella added “And a long morning, which I didn’t like very much either”

There was nothing I could say, because she was right the morning really sucked.

Bella held my eyes as she moved from the chair to floor, taking a kneeling position between my legs. I understood her need to be there she needed the comfort and safety that only that position could give her.

“Relax nâhtötse” Closing her eyes Bella laid her head on my thigh, nuzzling it while making mewling noises as the back of my hand stoked along the length of her jaw.

“Your girl missed you Master”

Fucking A…

“And I missed my girl”

We stayed like that for a few minutes just enjoying a quiet moment of tenderness.

“Master, may your girl please suck your dick”

Ok, I wasn’t prepared for that and little Eddie who was already hard started begging to be let loose. Checking the clock again I practically groaned at what I had to do.

“Not now Isabella”

“Please Master, your girl wants to get the last time your dick was in her mouth out of her memory”

That was something I would have liked to have erased too.

“Look at me” looking into her beautiful pleading brown eyes was not helping me, my dick was screaming at me to just let do it but I he was going to have to wait and so would Isabella.

“I would like to rid my mind of that memory also Isabella, however now is not the time. In fact I want you to get up, finish that juice use the bathroom and then bring your cane into the dining room”

“Yes Master” 

There was a slight bit of disappointment on her face as she moved to do what I had asked. Quickly writing out a few instructions I ran down to the basement to tack them onto the playroom door. Returning upstairs I found Bella was just leaving and I followed her into the living room where I instructed her to sit on the couch while I set my I-pod in the docking station.

Bella sat in the center of the couch while I adjusted the throw pillows before taking the cane to have her lay on her side.  Squatting down I told her “Close your eyes…and keep them that way for the next to hour”

Her eyes popped open in wonder making me warn “I will blindfold you”

Knowing there was no jest in the threat Bella closed them once again and I finished getting her ready for a nap.  Using the pillow from the other end between her knees I slid the tip of the cane into the small gap, she automatically grasped the length clutching it to her chest. Brushing a few hairs that had come loose from the braid I gave her the rest of the instructions.

“For the next hour you are to rest. You didn’t get much sleep last night, you’ve had a busy day and we have a long night ahead of us. That means you keep your eyes closed and unless you are in pain, I don’t want to hear one word from you.”

Satisfied there wasn’t going to be a response I covered Bella with the small blanket on the back of the couch before turning on the music. The soft sounds were at a perfect volume to create a quiet atmosphere. Bella readjusted her arm bringing outside of the blanket while her hands settled themselves on the cane before she snuggled into the pillow. With eyes remaining closed she let out a small sigh and I hoped sleep would come.

Going into the kitchen to start a pot of coffee Seth was still out in the back yard he wasn’t barking yet he’d been out there long enough. Just as he came in the bell for the front door rang and I hoped it wouldn’t disturb Bella. She would have slept better upstairs but I didn’t want to put her in my bed. That would have required her to be nude, as there was no clothing allowed and at that point I wasn’t sure I could resist a naked Bella. She could have slept in her bed however I was afraid that the freedom associated with the room might affect her mind set. The plans I had for after she woke were going to be tricky enough, her remaining focused was going to be pivotal.

Glancing at Bella as I passed, she appeared to be sleeping and didn’t move at all as Seth jumped on the couch curling him into a ball behind her legs. Opening the front door for my uncles I shook their hands asking them to go into the dining room while I waited for Emmett who was pulling into the driveway. “Hey long time no see”

“Shhh…Bella’s sleeping” I said nodding in the direction of the couch as I shut the door.

Emmett glanced over at her making a weird face but lowering his voice while we went into the dinning. “How did everything go at Alice’s?”

I groaned “Ohhh…Shelly Nunez was there”

Emmett growled “Grrr…the cougar”

“Who’s a cougar” Marcus wondered while I mumbled “She’s not a cougar”

Emmett laughed “One of the mother’s from Vinny’s baseball team. This woman is like forty years old and has set sights on our little Eddie”

“Would you stop calling me Eddie” he had said it a few times at the golf course and I knew damn well Emery would pick up the annoying nickname.

“Tell me more about this cougar” My uncle wanted gossip and I left the details to Emmett, who I was sure would make the story a good one while I went to get the coffee. Coming back in the dining room it was clear my brother did not disappoint as both men were laughing.

“So…” Marcus said with a smirk “…if a cougar was after me, she’d be…”

“In a wheel chair” Emmett replied with a laugh.

“Thanks, I’m not that old” Marcus said pouring himself coffee.

“You’d probably have to stock up on Viagra and don’t forget the K-Y. I heard about those older women”

“Don’t you worry Viagra is the last thing I need”

Emmett sighed “Well that’s good to know. I’m expecting my shit to still working in twenty-five years, fuck that, I want to go to my grave with a hard-on.”

Taking the file folder and receiver for the monitor off the buffet I sat down next to Emmett. Adjusting the volume to the lowest setting before pulling out the sheets of paper with the information my uncles came to see while he continued.

“Impotency has to completely suck. I mean seriously, is the desire there but it just won’t rise or are you like a eunuch…hot babe in your bed and …nothing”

Aro laughed “Why are you looking at me?”

“I just thought with all your knowledge you might know the answer”

“I assure you Emmett, I don’t know but if I ever find out, you’ll be the first person I enlighten” Emmett nodded and Aro asked “Is there anything else you would like to know?”

“As a matter of fact …yes” Emmett’s head turned in my direction “What’s up with the baby monitor and why the hell is Bella clutching a cane like some kind of security blanket?”

Cocking my head I answered the first part “I need to hear if and when she wakes up”

“And the cane?” my eyes narrowed at his curiosity while Marcus commented “I sort of wondered that myself but figured it was none of my business”

My uncle was right it was none of their business and I refused to answer, instead turning my attention to the papers.

“Fine be that way, I’ll ask her when she wakes up”

Emmett could inquire all he wanted Bella had no idea what my plan was.

Aro took the intuitive to get the meeting started “What do you got for us Edward”

Taking a deep breath I tried to decide where to start, should I go by dates or by order of what I deemed of importance. Making a rash decision that my idea of significance might not be someone else’s I started from the beginning. 

“Weiss didn’t find too much stored on Caius’s hard drive but there was an e-mail to Irena saved asking her to help him with placing doubt in Bella’s head about being with me. In it he talks about rewarding her efforts with a job managing his downtown store.”

Giving it to them I had mixed emotions, the first being Caius would use my friend against me and she had agreed. The second being that Irena hadn’t lied about her reason for helping Caius when she came to the house a few weeks ago to apologize.  It didn’t really make much difference as our friendship was severed beyond repair. Regardless of her reasons or whether she was aware of my feelings for Bella, I would never again be able to trust Irena.

“The rest of the e-mails went to Laurent and one to Newton. The first one is asking Laurent about the daily running of the club, nothing too personal, just basic information.” I gave that e-mail over to my uncles along with Laurent’s reply “He didn’t really tell him anything except what his position was and what access he has to files.”

Giving them a moment to look those over I went on “Then once it seemed like Laurent would cooperate he starts getting more specific. He already had the basic information about Bella, where she came from, her finances, and her basic life story. Like I said last night, all that came from Newton and was totally accurate because he had gotten it straight from Karen”

“Yeah but what does he want with Bella?” Emmett wondered.

“Well there was an e-mail to Newton asking him about a payment from Aro to Bella” that one confused Aro as much as it did me.

“I have never given Ms. Swan money or even a gift. The most I have ever spent on the girl was a cup of coffee.”

Nodding at my uncle I shuffled through the papers “Well someone told Caius that they overheard you saying ‘you will send a check for her mother’.

“To her mother?” Aro questioned while Marcus re-read the email then asked “Did you even know her mother?”

“No…the only thing I know about her is what Ms. Swan has told me. The only time I even mentioned Isabella’s mother was…” he seemed to realize something “Wait a minute…” Aro gave me a pointed look 
“Remember the first night Ms. Swan came to the club with - I believe it was her brother-in-law- before leaving they came to say goodbye. That was when I suggested Edward could accompany Ms. Swan to the club.”

I nodded in recollection while Aro continued “While we spoke I offered to send The Center a donation in honor of Ms. Swan’s mother.”

“Do you always send something in honor of her?” Marcus wondered while Aro shook his head “No, it was Mother’s Day, but if that conversation was overheard…”

Aro trailed off as I tried and failed to remember more of the details of that discussion. While they talked, most of my attention had been on Bella. I was excited about the possibly of getting to know her better and trying to figure out a way to get a phone number. As Aro recounted what was said it sounded vaguely familiar but I couldn’t recall the exact words.

“So someone heard you tell Bella you would send money to her…”

Aro corrected Emmett ‘Not to her directly”

Emmett answered quickly “But they wouldn’t know that and maybe they only heard parts of what was being said.” He glanced to me “Who was around you?”

I shrugged “Everyone, we were in the middle of room. I didn’t see anyone paying particular attention but I wasn’t really looking either.”

“Yeah I know, little Bella had you all befuddled that night” Emmett chuckled and all I could do was grin because he was right “Anyway what I’m saying is, to an outsider it sounds like you are sending Bella money”

I nodded in total agreement with my brother while taking out the next email “That’s exactly what Caius thought because then he starts to speculate why Aro is sending Bella money. He asks Laurent if you’ve had a sexual relationship with her.” The anger in my voice coming out as I read the next part “And have you ever paid anyone else for services rendered”

The idea that Caius thought of Bella as a prostitute was nothing new. He had previously alluded to the idea, even coming right out and asking her. However just because I had heard it before didn’t make it any easier to know someone could think so low of my girl.

“Laurent to his credit denied that question immediately, he did however offer up an alternative. He tells Caius about the year or two when you would spend a lot of time away from Jane with a young woman that he believes you were training.”

Aro took that paper grimly; Laurent was a trusted employee who was feeding personal information to someone else. “Caius dismissed that thought immediately, saying if that were true Isabella would have better manners and would know her place because there was no way you would indulge her the way you do.”

I looked at my uncle “Hence the little show Caius and Irena did here at the house that day Bella stopped over.” The Monday after our first weekend together Bella had stopped at the house to thank me for sending her roses. We had been meeting at the house to discuss plans for the anniversary party and as soon as Bella entered Caius along with Irena practically attacked her. It was not their shining moment nor was it at all appropriate.

At Aro’s nod I showed him the most unbelievable thing I had read “That was when he came to his last conclusion. He suggests that Bella is your illegitimate child.”

They all laughed but personally I didn’t see the humor, Emmett however enlightened me “He must think we’re some kind of backwoods hillbillies. Inbreeding, so your daddy is also your uncle and brother…”
Emmett stopped mid thought “Wait a fucking minute…that night at the club when Caius got all hot under the collar because little Bella wouldn’t talk to him.

Emmett gestured to me “You remember…”

That was a night I wouldn’t forget. Bella had made me so proud with the way she performed with Jane and Rose after they won game night. She also handled Caius with grace and dignity along with following my instructions - albeit loosely – while dealing with Jess in the bathroom. Her explanation of ‘it’s not your girls fault if Jessica was eavesdropping’ still made me laugh.  

“Well that fucker said something to Bella about keeping it in the family. I thought he was just being an asshole suggesting she got passed around. Turns out he was serious and thinks this is Alabama or some other place where it’s ok to bone your cousin.”

I scowled at the word bone but let it go as I read Laurent’s reply “I doubt she is his daughter, after all the girl has been with Edward. I’m sure if there was any blood relation Aro would not have allowed the relationship to even begin.”

Emmett shook his head in disbelief “I don’t understand what Caius’s fixation with little Bella is. Why does it matter where she came from or who she is with. I mean, she’s pretty, she’s sexy and she’s a hell of a lot of fun to be with but it seems like he’s had a hard-on for her since he’s heard her name”

Aro listened to what Emmett said while Marcus narrowed his eyes “Edward what else did this Weiss guy give you?”

“Back ground information, financial records…”

Marcus held his hand out “Let me see those”

Handing them over I told Aro and Emmett about the last emails “The last correspondence were the weekend before we went away. Caius wanted Laurent to use his connections to get something with your DNA on it. He goes on to say ‘arrangements have been put in place to retrieve a sample from the girl…”

I looked up at my uncle “…I’m assuming that’s Bella”

At his nod I finished reading “And I need something with a sample of Aro’s DNA for the lab to run the test comparison. There must be some connection that I am missing. Of course it is also very possible that Isabella is just a stupid bitch” I spit the words trying to remain impassive at the offensive term while I continued “…who is nothing more than a patsy and being used in his schemes. If you could find a way to not only get a DNA sample but also banks records I will see you are compensated for your time and trouble”

“Ahhh…” Marcus smiled handing Aro a paper “…take a look at this.” His eyes went to mine “what was Laurent’s reply”

“He wrote back that he wasn’t sure if a DNA sample would be possible but he was absolutely sure the bank statements were out of the question because in the twelve years he’s worked there he has never seen one. He then asked what kind of sample Caius was expecting and how long he had to get it”

“So it sounds like Laurent was accepting the offer” Marcus asked and Emmett came to his defense “Or was trying to placate him to see what his game was”

“I suppose that would be something only Laurent can answer” Marcus didn’t sound happy and I figured at the end of the conversation Laurent wouldn’t be either.  I wasn’t sure when they would talk with him or what the outcome would be. The timing wasn’t exactly convenient as my uncles were leaving in a few days for vacation. I was absolutely sure Emmett and I could handle the club while Aro was gone, yet the timing was really bad.

“Is there any other correspondences Edward?”

“A lot of text messages were sent back and forth between Caius and Newton. There is only a record of dates and times because text messages can’t be intercepted. But there was an email sent to Newton on the night my home was broken onto asking ‘is it done’ and ‘did you get what I need.

“I would give that to the police Edward…”

Aro groaned “Ohhh…Jesus…”

Marcus smiled “Do you see it?”

Aro nodded and Emmett wondered “What is it?”

Aro placed one of the many pages of Caius’s investments in front of Emmett and I, his index finger pointing to and entry KSTW-TV.

I had absolutely no idea what a television station had to do with anything and apparently neither did Emmett 
“Do you want to broadcast ads or something?”

Aro chuckled while Marcus just shook his head “Do you know anything about family business…about how your grandfather made his money?”

My mother’s father – their father – was a contract lawyer who specialized in entrainment, specifically television. He amassed a small fortune by investing in various small local broadcast companies that were eventually sold to larger stations. I had no idea what KSTW in particular had to do with our family and even if it was important it would have nothing to do with Bella.

“Granddad owned a television station…”

I corrected Emmett “No he invested in them”

“No Edward he owned” Marcus’s statement was news to me “And as of right now the station is still privately owned with the majority of shares still held by the family”

“The majority?” I questioned and then listened to the brief history lesson from my uncle.

“Yes. In nineteen-sixty-four, our father along with his law partner Dan McCarthy each put up one thousand dollars to start up a small UHF television station, WCIU in Chicago. For ten years they were the sole owners, and even when they started selling stocks in the company they maintained control by each keeping thirty-percent. When McCarthy died with no heirs, his shares were left to your grandfather, giving him sixty percent and controlling interest. When our parents died the stocks were evenly divided between the children. Your mother, Aro and myself each receiving twenty percent and the three of us agreed to always maintain a united front when voting on the business. WCIU is a small company that has branched out into the digital age and is doing very well. So well in fact that about a year ago KSTW – which is based here in Seattle, made a play to buy us. Because we own controlling interest and the station is making money for the other investors, we shot them down. Since then they have made two more offers which also have been denied. Caius Salvatore owns quite a bit of KSTW and would probably double his holdings if the sale would go through.”

“So this is all about money?” Emmett asked

Marcus gave him a discouraged look “It usually is”

That all made sense but still I had to wonder “What does this have to do with Bella?”

“Ms. Swan came to me last year asking if I could help with her investments” I nodded as Aro explained “She had no idea where to begin so I set up the appointment with the advisors…”

I knew all about how Aro had helped Bella understand the ins and outs of handling her financial affairs.

Aro went on to tell me things I didn’t know “During that time one of the original investors in your grandfather’s business was dying and wanted to sell. I orchestrated the shares to be sold privately to Ms. Swan and throughout the past year there have been several other transactions. Whenever I was informed of a death or a need to liquidate stocks, they would be privately sold to Ms. Swan. As of right now I believe she owns a little over seven percent of WCIU in Chicago”

I was in shock; Emmett on the other hand wondered “Why would you do that?”

“I told you before, I greatly admire Ms. Swan, and she needed a good sound investment that would pay her strong dividends. What better choice was there than one I myself have a solid stake in, I can assure you there was no illegal trading, all sales were…”

“No…No…No… I mean, I’m your nephew, where’s the private stock sales for me?”

“Ohhh…” Aro laughed “You’re a grown man who knows his way around the market; you can purchase them anytime you want. Ms. Swan on the other hand was an innocent who led a sheltered life in these things, she needed help and guidance. To the best of my ability, that is what I gave her.” Aro gazed at me “Now you can have that honor”

“So let me get this straight” Emmett interjected “Aro sells stocks to Bella in a company that Caius would like to have dismantled…”

“Not dismantled just sold to go in a different direction”

Emmett rolled his eyes at Aro “Whatever they want to do with it. The point is your having little Bella privately buy up something he probably wants. So he’s trying to figure out what exactly you’re doing this for. Why you are selling them to her. And since you’re not usually such a nice guy…”

“I’m a nice person”

“Not that nice…” Emmett added as he finished “…Caius figures you must eiher have an ulterior motive or some deep connection with Bella and he’s trying to figure out what it is. But how would he know that she was the one buying the shares?”

“Quarterly reports” Marcus added “It’s enormous and reads like a who’s who in the company. If he was so inclined to analyze the documents Caius would have noticed her name on all the sales.”

“All the sales? How many were there?” I wondered

Aro shrugged “In the past year….I don’t know two dozen or so. Some were large acquisitions others portions of shares.”

“So anyone who was studying the reports would have seen her name, many times” I asked, not sure how I liked the idea.

“Yes” Aro said plainly “All transaction were done in an open forum and those are all public records”

That would mean Newton wasn’t the only person who practically came in his pants when he found out who Bella was. Emmett must have been thinking along the same lines “Well no fucking wonder Caius wants to get close to Bella. He’s trying to figure out what the hell is going on and what makes her so damn special that you’d go to such lengths.”

“I didn’t…” Aro continued talking but my attention went to sound coming from the monitor. Bella had been very quiet while she slept. The soft sound of her saying ‘Master’ made me wonder if she was sleep talking or if she had awoken.

“Excuse me” 

“Yeah go get Ms. Wall Street” Emmett snickered at his own joke while I turned off the receiver before going to check on Bella.

She was as I had left her, snuggled in a half fetal position on the couch. Seth was still curled up in his spot with his snout resting on Bella’s thigh. Watching for any sign of consciousness I noticed the small movement of her eyes. Sitting on the edge of the couch I watched the really bad acting job being performed in front of me. She was trying exceedingly hard to remain unmoved and failing miserably.
I couldn’t take it anymore and had to bite the inside of my cheek to keep from laughing as the back of my hand stroked along her jaw “Are you awake nâhtötse?”

“Has it been an hour?” the innocence pouring through, but I knew better – she really was a bad actress.

“Are you expecting me to believe you didn’t open your eyes to see the clock?”

The fidgeting under my gaze was almost as amusing as the bad acting and I grinned widely while watching the corner of her mouth twitch. Bella’s face went through a whole acrobatic routine as she thought over how to answer. Finally unable to take it any more I figured it best to just put her out of her misery.

“Isabella…look at me”

Her head turned in my direction before her eyes fluttered open to give me a childish grin.

Raising my eyebrows I asked “Did you open your eyes?”

Releasing the lip between her teeth Bella scrunched her face while holding up her hand to show me a small gap between her thumb and index finger “Maybe a little bit”

“A little bit?” I questioned while she nodded.

“Just a tiny little bit…like…” tightly squeezing her eyes shut Bella squinted at me through tiny little fluttering slits “…like that”

Her antics making me laugh “I see…”

Leaning down for a kiss I asked “Did you have a good nap?”

“Yes Sir”

“Good.” Sitting back up my eyes shifted to the clock then back to her face “It’s been over an our however you have another half hour, you may either sleep some more or you may come join our guest in the dining room, the choice is yours”

“Who’s here?” Just as she asked the loud laughter drifted from the other room “Oh…Emmett”

“Among other people”

“Your girl wants to get up”

Nodding at her decision “Fine, you may talk freely but in thirty minutes you are to excuse yourself and go downstairs. I placed instructions on the door of the playroom, follow what it says and I will be down to join you.”

The smile of anticipation on her face made me feel rather warm but I had to wonder “I thought you were still sore”

“Not that sore…besides it depends what part you want to use”

“Ahhh…I hope my plans don’t disappoint you” If all worked out we would have an hour of free time and the only thing I would be using was Bella’s mind.

Her expression became thoughtful “Master your girl would be happy to just sit at your feet while you rested. 
After all you didn’t get much sleep last night either."

“I’m fine nâhtötse” I said getting to my feet while taking the cane in one hand and using the other to pull her to a seating position “Come on”

Handing Bella the cane I folded the blanket before laying it over the back of the couch and Seth jumped off the cushion, following behind us.

“Well look who woke up, Miss Charles Schwab herself” Emmett chuckled as we rounded the corner.

Bella’s eyes narrowed at the comment but her attention went to my uncles. After saying hello she went into hostess mode starting to gather up the empty coffee pot and asking if anyone needed something. I wasn’t having that she had a lot to hear in a rather short amount of time. “Sit down Isabella”

“Yeah…come here cuz, sit next to me”

Bella eyed Emmett suspiciously but went to sit down next to him while I finished what she had started. As she sat down my nosey brother put his arm over the back of her chair “Tell me cuz, why are you carrying around that cane. I asked Edward and he won’t tell me”

“Really?” Bella looked at me “That’s funny, he won’t tell me either”

My wink making her smile “Would you like a drink Isabella?”

“Yes please”   

I didn’t bother with inquiring with what she wanted instead asking Aro to explain what we had discovered while I took the stuff into the kitchen. I was only in there a matter of minutes and by the time I had returned with a glass of cranberry juice my uncle was half way through the story. Taking the chair next to Bella I set the drink down giving her a quiet nod as she thanked me while listening to the rest of what was being said. Once she had heard everything Bella got a look of contemplation on her face.

“Did we do something illegal?” The question was directed at Aro, who answered with a resounding “No”

I still didn’t know how aware Bella was about the stocks “Did you know the history of KSTW?”

Taking a drink Bella shrugged “Sort of, Aro told me it was a lucrative business that was family owned. The stocks were all bought at a slight discount, but that was because there were no broker fees and the sellers wanted to liquidate quickly. It’s like buying a house in a short sale; the price is reduced to sell fast. They wanted out and I wanted in so we both profited from the transaction.”

“I did teach you well Ms. Swan”

The growl stuck in my throat at Aro’s comment. He had said those exact words before and I didn’t like it anymore the second time I heard them.

“Yeah well that’s what father’s do” Emmett chuckled

Bella questioned “Father?”

Before I could explain Marcus spoke up “Bella I’m afraid that because the TV station is primarily family owned Caius assumed you were family too.”

“He thinks I’m your daughter?” Aro nodded and Bella looked aghast “but..but I’m with…” turning her head in my direction her voice trailed off before saying my name."

Good girl

My satisfaction with Bella’s obedience only lasted a second as the implication of what Caius was suggesting sunk in. When it did her whole face was horror struck “that’s just …oh…gross. What kind of a sick pervert is he? First I’m a hooker…which by the way, why does he think I’m a prostitute?”

I ran through the gamut of emails showing her the various theories he had deemed possible. I thought for sure the comment about being a ‘stupid bitch’ that was being used as ‘a patsy’ would be the one that pissed her off – Not my Bella.

“What the hell does this mean ‘arrangements have been put in place to retrieve a sample from the girl’ and then this one to Mike saying ‘is it done’ and ‘did you get what I need.’ What was he going to do, have Jessica steal a pair of my dirty underwear?”

She turned to me seething in anger “Did she go in our room? Does that asshole have my underwear?”

“Geez little Bella calm down”

Oh shit

Once, only once I had told Bella to calm down when she was upset and she turned on me the same way she turned on Emmett.

“Don’t You Tell Me To Calm Down…some bimbo breaks in the house to steal my underwear…”

“You don’t know what she was after, maybe it was a toothbrush”

“I would have noticed a toothbrush missing Emmett. Besides after rinsing it off the sample would have been lost but my underwear…”

“That’s true…I’ve seen how tight your panties are”

Bella sucked in a deep breath as the rage rolled over her face “You…you…”

I figured I better step in before Bella hurt him. Marcus must have had the same thought as he laughed “I think you’re going to get another black eye Emmett”

It was a few minutes early but it was probably a good idea to get her out of there. Putting my hand on Bella’s shoulder I spoke calmly “Isabella, I believe you have something to do”

Taking a deep breath she nodded before speaking in a normal tone “Yes Sir. If you gentlemen will excuse me”

As she stood her body turned and Emmett yelled “Awe! Shit!”

“Oh…I’m sorry Emmett” she said with a little bit too much sympathy as Emmett rubbed his hand along the side of his calf where I can only assume the cane struck him.

I knew she was upset but I couldn’t let her get away with that.

“Isabella” I said sternly.

Bella knew damn well she was in trouble. Her eyes dropped at the same time her lower lip became clamped between her teeth. Emmett held up his hand “It’s ok, accidents happen. Isn’t that right puff-a-lump?”

Hearing the childhood nickname that I warned Emmett not to use, Bella’s face turned bright red while her eyes grew so large I thought they were going to pop out of her head. Glaring at my brother I excused Bella before anything else could be said.

“Didn’t I tell you not to tease her?” I asked Emmett as Bella left to go into the kitchen.

“I didn’t tease her…that my brother was pure retaliation”

Aro laughed “Here I thought the jab with the cane was retaliation, which by the way you deserved”

“Listen” Emmett pointed his finger at our uncle “Just because she’s your daughter” Emmett laughed “doesn’t mean Bella can get away scot-free”

Marcus laughed “Are they always like that”

“Yes” I said while Emmett gave a resounding “Fuck yeah…I told you she’s a hell of a lot of fun to be around. I’m sure glad when Eddie finally fell in love it was somebody descent…” he chuckled “…now if he’d get his ass in gear I’ll have another fifty fun filled years ahead of me”

Fifty years?

I had thought in terms of thirty years, fifty sounded better.

“It doesn’t matter, Emmett don’t call her that again” It wasn’t a request. Emery never should have told him something like that.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah…I just wish I could have seen her face” he said with a chuckle then became serious as he turned his head towards our uncles “So what are you going to do about Laurent and Caius and what about Newton?”

“Well, Mr. Newton has an appointment with us Monday morning, at that time he will be told his employment is no longer needed.” Aro didn’t say anything I didn’t already know; besides something told me Newton was going to have enough legal troubles to occupy his time.

Marcus sighed “I’m not sure what can be done with Caius. Although proper behavior would state he not be so intrusive, he hasn’t done anything illegal” he stopped as if a thought occurred to him “Unless…as Bella said he in some way commissioned Mr. Newton to break into your home to get a DNA sample. I suppose when the police talk to Miss. Stanley maybe her complete reason for being here will be revealed. Which I have to say Edward if that were the case and whether it was a pair of underwear, a toothbrush or hair from her brush, you would have a right to place a grievance against him. That act would be enough to place sanctions against Caius at New Moon other than that from these correspondence I don’t see any illegal activity.”

“Fuck that Caius had Newton break into Edward’s house”

Aro quickly corrected Emmett “Nowhere in any of these emails does it say that. Caius made a request, how Mr. Newton chooses to follow through with that was his own doing. For all Caius knew Mr. Newton was planning to follow Miss. Swan around until she disposed of a Kleenex.”

“Ewwwee…” Emmett drew out the word while Aro agreed “I concur and the fact alone that Caius would stoop so low is disheartening, but as Marcus said that is a grievance only Edward can make. Laurent on the other hand…”

“We will speak with Laurent this evening.” Marcus was not pleased “At the very least he is in violation of the nondisclosure he signed. I hate to leave him go, but an employee who cannot be trusted is useless. Since we are leaving for a few weeks the timing is bad and Laurent’s termination would require the two of you to assume more duties”

“It makes no difference to me, I’m planning on be there all night during open operation. Edward’s going to come and go but he’s going to handle all the office work during the week. So do what you have to do, we’ll be fine”   

Marcus nodded at Emmett’s assurance “Then I would say Laurent’s fate all depends on his answers to our questions.”

In other words, no one is irreplaceable and Emmett was right we had the club covered until Aro returned.

“Is there anything else we need to discuss about this?”

“No, I can’t think of anything.”

My uncles started to gather up their stuff, as Aro went to hand me the papers I told him to keep them – they were copies. Emmett was the first to leave with a quick goodbye and an ‘I’ll see ya later’. Standing by the front door Marcus was looking at the framed picture of Bella and I displayed on the sideboard. It was the one us playing in the snow at the cabin.

Picking it up he smiled “You look very happy here Edward”

I chucked “Yeah that was a good day. Bella has a few more pictures she just didn’t have a chance to frame them yet”

“Bella seems like a good woman for you, a little feisty but completely adorable. You needed someone to make your life complete and she seems worth the wait”

I didn’t know what to say nor did I get a chance to as Aro took the credit “I knew they would be perfect together, I should get a commission for my matchmaking skills”

“Yeah we’ll erect a statue for you” He laughed while Marcus shook my hand goodbye.

Shaking Aro’s hand he slipped a piece of paper into my palm “Don’t say no, you saved me a lot of time and aggravation”

Not sure what he was giving me yet having a bit of an idea I started to shake my head and he stopped me with an intense glare “Edward don’t argue with me. The investigation Weiss did for you saved me the trouble of calling him myself and believe me, I would have. Because of what we learned here today this can be put to rest before I leave”

Withdrawing his hand I still was not at all comfortable with him giving me money, Marcus laughed “Now you can buy Bella a bigger diamond”

“I can buy my own diamond”

“Then donate it to The Center if you’d like but you’re taking the check” there wasn’t a choice in the matter so I thanked him and said goodbye.

Shutting the door I reset the security system and looked at the amount on the check. It was a little more than half of what Weiss had charged so far and I’d have to decide what to do with it. Setting the check on the sideboard I glanced at our smiling faces in the picture Marcus had admired. The image of the two us laughing made me smile and I thought about Bella down in the playroom waiting for me.

It was time to find out how far Bella was willing to go with cane play. Her triggers were sounds and smells, she was either going to overcome her fears or canes would be once and for all listed as a hard limit.

Well Edward, let’s go find out.