Author's Note: Wow, I'm sorry to those of you who actually read my story ^.^'' I've been studying for finals _ whoo is it stressful. Anyways since it's winter break I'll be updating more! So here you go, enjoy!

Disclaimer: How many times do I have to say I do not own anyone but Edward... ok I don't own him either TT_TT *goes off to cry*

Chapter 2

"The pleasure is all mine, I assure you," He said, looking down at her, "Now, I was hoping you wouldn't object to a quiet stroll through the gardens this evening? It's quite pleasant outside, if not a little dark."

"That's sounds divine," Bella replied, her tone once again reverting to its bored state. She placed her hand in his outstretched one, immediately a shiver running through her arm from the unusual coolness, though she couldn't say it was entirely unpleasant.

He flashed her a smile and lead her outside, Julia following along behind them quietly. The scent of roses and irises caressed Bella's nostrils gently, a pleasant smell that she gratefully inhaled. "Don't you just love the flowers in the spring, Miss Swan?" Mr. Cullen said conversationally.

"They are quite lovely aren't they?" She agreed. He gently took her hand with his other one and tugged her closer, hooking her arm through his. She felt the blood rush to her pale cheeks, tinting them a rosy pink. She made sure to continue looking straight ahead, her warm brown eyes flittering across the different flowers.

"You know," he said smoothly, plucking a rose from it's stem and tucking it into her hair, "roses stand for passion and love." Her blush only grew with his words but somehow she was able to keep her voice calm.

"How fascinating Mr. Cullen," She said quietly as they continued to walk through the twisting path.

"Please, just Edward. And if you wish, may I call you Isabella?"

"Just Bella is fine," she agreed quietly. They continued to walk together, chatting about senseless things every once in a while, idle chit-chat that Bella not only found dull but usual for suitors.

"Julia! Julia the master needs you immediately," another maid said, running out and grabbing the young girl by her arm. "But I'm chaperoning."

"They'll be fine I'm sure, Mr. Cullen is a respectable man," the woman said, "Please hurry or it's my hide instead of yours."

Bella watched the maids run off, raising an eyebrow in curiosity. Only when she heard a low chuckle from beside her did she regain her senses. "Well, it looks as if we're alone for the moment," a husky voice said. She turned around to see his eyes smoldering as he looked down at her.

"I must say, you're quite beautiful in that dress Bella," he told her, holding her arm in his a bit tighter. "Why thank you," came her flustered reply. She was suddenly very conscious of just how low her collar was, how tight the dress was around her chest and waist.

"No need to thank me," he said as they continued to walk, "You probably hate this whole suitor business don't you? I know I would."

Her eyes widened and she looked up at him, politely staying quiet. "It's alright if you do. But I must warn you, I'm a persistent man Bella," he chuckled, "But, when you truly wish for me to go then I shall. Which reminds me, I must get going now, I have a dinner to attend. Farewell Miss Swan." Once again he pressed his icy lips to her hand, the kiss lingering before he pulled away. He paused a moment, seemingly smelling her hand before a low purring rumbled out of his chest. She was almost positive she was imagining things.

"Good bye Mr. Cullen, Take care." He bowed at the same time she curtsied and then she watched him walk off, turning to glance at her before stepping out of the garden gate and disappearing around the corner.

Author's Note: Go on. Press the review button. You know you want to. I promise it doesn't bite... Much ;)