Okay, so here it is. The sequel for A Nerd Story of Love. I don't own any of this. The only thing I do own is the plot to the story and a very cool 'Geekward' mug. I'm planning on keeping the story lighthearted as can be, but there will be angsty moments. I will post warnings in the author's notes at the beginning of the chapters for fair warning.
Thanks for everyone who's faved, reviewed or read my story. I love writing SGB and Nerdella and I'm so happy that you all love them too.
Chapter Two: Deal with the Devil…erm, Alice
BPOV
What crack was I smoking when I said that Alice could throw me a baby shower? Seriously?
She is a woman possessed. Every fifteen minutes, she's calling me. Or texting me. Or emailing me with ideas for the pink ladybug baby shower. Did I want this cake or the other? Do I want to have it at my house or at the country club near Esme's home? Should we invite Alex?
I was ready to jump out the window of my office.
Let's not do that. Edward might be sad.
"Bella?"
I turned and saw my boss, Tia. She was leaning against my door frame with a wide grin on her face. "Hey, Tia. what's up?"
"Two things. Number one, can you fly out to Phoenix for a meeting with Jane? She has some things she needs to discuss with you specifically. Some of your authors are demanding that you continue being their editor and are not believing Jane that you moved. So, she's set up a meeting with them," Tia said.
"When?" I asked.
"Next week," Tia explained "You'd leave on Monday and be back on Wednesday. It'll be the last trip I'll send you on before the baby's due. And you can bring your body guard or Edward with you if you feel more comfortable."
"Thanks," I smiled. "Anything else?"
"Will you be a bridesmaid at my wedding?" Tia asked, her face blushing.
"Ben proposed? When?" I squealed
"Last night," she said. "Check out my ring." She waved her hand in my face and it was round cut diamond with a channel set eternity band. It was simple and elegant, like Tia. She went on to explain how he proposed and it was very romantic. But it was nothing like Edward's proposal to me.
He surprised me in New York City when I was there with Rose. It was the last stop on her multi-city book tour. We had a book signing in the morning and Rose suggested we take a carriage ride around Central Park as a celebration of our final signing. The carriage was decked out in white flowers and it was so pretty. We finally pulled up to the Alice in Wonderland statue, which happened to be my favorite story as a child and Edward appeared out of nowhere. The rest of the proposal was a blur. The only thing I remembered was Edward falling to his knee before me and rattling off some romantic saying in Italian. He held out this absolutely gorgeous ring and asked me to marry him after I blubbered that I didn't understand him. I squealed and said yes. He slid my engagement ring (which is currently in my jewelry box because my fat fingers won't fit) onto my hand and we celebrated with warm and loving kisses.
Yeah, my husband is a helpless romantic and I love him for it.
My geek charming…
Sigh.
"So, Bella, aren't you going to tell me what you're having? I know that you found out," Tia snorted.
"What?" I asked, shaking the cobwebs from my brain. Unfortunately, Squirt has caused me to lose all focus and my filter is non-existent. I'm 'fucking' everything under the sun. Plus, I'm like a dog in heat. All I want to do is ride my husband's baloney pony from dusk to dawn.
Morning.
Noon
Night.
And EVERYTIME in between.
"Jesus, woman. I think Squirt is sucking your brain cells to your uterus," Tia snickered. "Boy or girl? I'd like to know since I got this very fancy looking baby shower invite from Alice."
"Fuck, what does it look like?"
"It's actually pretty cute, Bella." She darted off and returned with a ladybug baby invite. "I'm guessing you're having a girl since pink is the overriding theme of the party."
"You assume correctly," I said. "She finally cooperated with Michelle, my doctor, and showed us her goods."
"Do you have a name?"
"Kyra Marie," I smiled as I put my hand on my belly. "It's Esme's middle name and my mom's middle name."
"So pretty," Tia gushed. "Okay, your little girl is so going to get spoiled. With Alice, Rose, Esme, your mom…"
"Don't forget Edward. God, he's already starting. If he sees a cute stuffed animal or baby outfit, he buys it. He's so over the moon about Kyra," I said. "But even though she's going to be the most spoiled little girl, she will be respectful and not expect to get whatever the hell she wants. I don't want a brat for a child."
Tia rolled her eyes and wished me luck. She left my office and I addressed some issues. I sent out emails to a few of my authors, requesting some more detailed edits. I also texted Johnny and Edward about my business trip next week. I know that Edward would not be pleased and he would insist on coming. However, he has his corporation to run. He can't just drop everything while I take a business trip.
I was clacking away on my computer when my office line rang. I picked it up, "Isabella Cullen, Eclipsed Sun Publishing," I said professionally.
"Are you ignoring my texts?" Edward growled.
"No. I didn't even know you texted me," I said as I picked up my phone from my purse, "thirty-seven times. Christ, Edward. Obsess much?"
"Just a little when my pregnant wife tells me that she needs to go on a business trip," Edward said.
"Okay, we're flying to Italy in June. I think I can handle going to Phoenix. I'll bring Johnny with me and stay with my mom," I shrugged.
"I wish my mom would move her wedding to Chicago," Edward grumbled "I don't like you being on a plane for so many hours. It can't be good for the baby."
"I'm sorry, Edward. But I can't be in a bubble throughout my entire pregnancy. I'm healthy and Michelle sees no problem with us going. I just need to be aware of my body. And believe me. I'm aware. It's a little hard not to be when you have a small country that was my stomach,."
"Bella," Edward whined.
"Jesus, Cullen. Do you want some cheese with your whine?" I joked.
"You suck, Bella. I'm worried here. Maybe I'm being paranoid but I want to take care of you. Of Kyra," he said. "I could come with you."
"Edward, you have a million things to do. Like me. Except on a grander scale. I'll be fine. Going to Phoenix and going to Italy. Maybe I should come up to your office and give you a blow job. That might calm you down."
"We still need to defile Jasper's office," Edward snickered.
"We've got most of the flat surfaces in yours," I purred. "Is Jasper in the office today?"
"Yes. Unfortunately. You know, you're a bad influence, Isabella Marie Cullen," Edward laughed. "I used to be so innocent. I actually worked at my job. Now I just fantasize about all of the things I can do to you in my office, in the elevator, on Jasper's desk…"
"Okay, you need to stop or I will come up there and mount you," I said. "We had a little too much fun this morning and I'm a little sore."
"You're sore? Bella, I think the skin on my penis is falling off. Christ on a cracker, woman. You are possessed."
"What can I say? You're hot," I smiled.
"You're the beauty in our relationship, Bella. I'm just the brains and brawn," he laughed.
"Yeah, you are. I just LOVE licking your abs, baby. Nom nom nom…"
"And that's my cue to go. I'm not a side of beef, gorgeous. I'll talk to you later and I love you."
"What about my trip?"
"If you are comfortable going, who am I to say that you can't. I'm not your keeper. But if you feel like crap, don't go," Edward explained. "See you later."
"Love you, angel," I said. Once I got off the phone, I scheduled my flight to Phoenix for Johnny and me. I also called to confirm with Jane and with my mom so I have a place to stay. I finished out my work day without falling asleep at my desk.
Thank goodness for small miracles.
xx TGGTP xx
My business trip was uneventful. Edward worried for nothing. I flew in Monday morning, met with Jane to discuss some issues and resolve a few loose ends. Tuesday was spent meeting with authors who still wanted me to be their editor. I said that I'd be happy to work with them, but it would be on an as needed basis. I was bombarded with my own books, employees and preparing for my baby that I didn't want to over extend myself. Most of them were understanding. Two weren't but I shrugged off their rude comments.
I left Wednesday morning and was sleeping in my bed by Wednesday afternoon. When I woke up from my nap, Edward was wrapped around me with a blissed out grin on his face. His golden eyes were watching me with such love and affection. "Hi," I smiled. "Did you miss me?"
"Very much. I slept like crap. I missed your kicking," he joked as he tucked a hair behind my ear. "And your snoring."
"I don't snore," I said, pouting my lip.
"Recently, you do. But it's so cute," he laughed. "How was your trip?"
"Glad it's over. How was your time without me?" I asked, putting my head on his chest. I buried my nose in his shirt and inhaled his scent. It was a combination of his body wash, Tuscany cologne and the sweet musk that was Edward. I missed that.
"Boring. Ricky kicked my ass. I have bruises on my ribs from his jabs," Edward grimaced. "But, I learned some new moves that will incapacitate a grown man in five seconds."
"Good for you, baby. Do you want some ice?" I asked.
"Nah. I'm proud of my battle wounds," he laughed. "Just don't squeeze to hard."
"Have you talked to Charlie?" I questioned.
"Yeah. Still no word on Emmett. I'm so tired of looking over my shoulder," Edward murmured. "I want to be able to protect my family and with him out there, it's all one question mark. You know?"
"Edward, you are protecting us," I whispered. "We have Ricky and Johnny. Plus our house is protected with the state of the art security system and a husband who is one hell of a shot."
"Charlie is impressed. Plus it helps to see," he laughed. Edward had gotten Lasik after his first lesson with Charlie. He had the damndest time trying to see the target. He was so frustrated that he called his optometrist and had the procedure scheduled for the next day.
"I still miss your glasses," I pouted. "You were so sexy in them."
"I can be sexy without the glasses, you goof. Besides, I still have to wear glasses to read. You still get your sexy geek boy," he said as he kissed my lips. "Hmmm, I missed that the most while you were gone. Your lips. Your belly. Your boobies. Your body."
"You've finally learned the wisdom of my ways," I said as I reached for his belt buckle. "You're wearing too many clothes, Edward."
"So are you, Bella," he cooed. His hand dipped under my shirt and moved up my sides to my insanely huge breasts. He gently squeezed one of them and I had managed to undo his belt. However, the phone shrilled from the nightstand. Edward groaned and pulled away. "I hate the damn phone. Hello?"
I fell back on the pillows and moved my shirt off my body. Edward looked over his shoulder and bit back a groan when he saw me remove my bra. I smiled seductively but he got up, adjusting his bulge in his black dress pants. Crap. Edward hung up and leaned against the bedroom door frame. "Alice is on her way. She has some ideas for the baby shower and she NEEDS to speak with you."
"Come on, Edward. I'm all riled up and I need you," I moaned.
"She's like five minutes away, Bella. Trust me when I say that I want you and need you. My cock is so hard, it's painful. Especially, looking at you half naked and staring at me like that," he said in a strangled voice. I bit my lip. Edward groaned and danced on his toes.
Yeah, you want me. I know it.
"Rain check?" I asked, arching my brow.
"If my dick doesn't explode, hell yeah," Edward smirked. "You may want to get dressed, love. I don't think Alice would appreciate looking at your breasts like I would."
"Oh, right," I giggled. I tried to get out of bed but was failing miserably. "Help!"
Edward offered his hands and pulled me out of bed. He grabbed a maternity shirt and some yoga pants for me from the closet as I waddled to the bathroom. I quickly changed and we went downstairs. Alice and Rose were sitting in the family room while Jasper and Tim were raiding our fridge. Edward grumbled about making them pay for their beers. I kissed his shoulder and went to speak with Alice and Rose. The boys went downstairs to play pool or watch Sportscenter.
"So, we need to talk baby shower, Bellini," Rose said, curling her legs underneath her body. "We have the date. We have the location. Have you and Edward registered?"
"Um, no?" I said, quirking my eyebrow.
"You and SGB are going tomorrow," Rose said. "We know that you have the bed spread and furniture. You need so much more. Your family and friends are ready to spend oodles of money on your child. Right, Ali?"
"Definitely. Alex is chomping at the bit to know what to get his niece," Alice said. "Demetri, too."
"Is this going to be a mixed gender baby shower?" I asked.
"Yep. All the men in the family are ready to spoil your baby, Bella. Your husband, my BROTHER is the worst," Alice snickered. "Though, Marcus is pretty excited too. He's looking forward to cherishing his granddaughter."
I smiled at the closeness of our family. And the unconventional aspect of it. Edward's mother, Esme, is engaged to be married to Marcus Volturi. He is an Italian gazillionaire with his brothers, Aro and Caius. Marcus kind of adopted Edward after he had the huge falling out with Carlisle around Halloween last year. Demetri, Marcus' son, acted like my 'gay boyfriend' in Las Vegas when I was on Rose's book tour. Alex, Demetri's boyfriend, has a major crush on my husband. Yeah, it's weird. I think I need a flow chart to explain the intricacies of our family.
CRAZY!
"Okay, Edward and I will go register for baby gifts tomorrow. However, we are pretty much set. The only thing we still need to get is a stroller, baby seat and I need to get a breast pump."
"Let's check out the nursery," Alice said to Rose. "You stay here. Edward said that you are struggling going up and down the stairs. We'll be back."
I sat back on the couch and turned on the television. I heard Rose and Alice putter around in the nursery. Edward and I had set it up, mostly. We did need a few things, but we'd get them closer to when the baby was due in August. It was only the beginning of May.
They both came down the stairs and I noticed that Alice had a pad of paper. "You need so many things, Bella. This is what we gathered from seeing the nursery. Register for these things and anything else that you want. I'm warning you that you will have everything for our little Kyra." She dangled the list in front of my nose. I rolled my eyes and looked at some of the ridiculous requests my sister-in-law had put on there.
"Baby bottle cozies? What the hell is a boppy pillow?" I asked.
"It's a pillow that goes around the belly and supports the baby," Tim said with his mouth full of cookies. We all turned and looked at him. Not believing that Tim knew what a boppy pillow was. "What? I have two older sisters. Both of whom have children. They swear by it."
"Tim, you never cease to amaze me, stud," Rose said.
"I know. You love me," he said batting his blue eyes.
"I do, baby," Rose said with a wistful smile. "Thanks for the info."
"I do what I can," Tim said as he swiped another cookie and ran downstairs. I just shrugged and let Rose and Alice go to town with the baby shower registry. They also told us where to go. Nearly three hours later, my head was ready to explode and I was damn near ready to kill my best friend and sister-in-law. They finally left and took their men with them.
Edward plopped down next to me and put his head on my shoulder. "You survive?"
"No. Do you know what a boppy pillow is?" I asked, putting my head on his soft hair.
"Yep. It goes around your belly," he said. "I read about it online. Do you know what it is?"
"I did not. I almost fell out of my chair when Tim told me. The fact that he knew just boggled my mind," I said. "I'm so freaking out, Edward. What if we fuck up our child? What if she hates us? What if she thinks that we're two losers who have no clue how to raise her? What if…?"
"What if she loves us unconditionally? What if she is the light in our eyes? What if she's our joy?" Edward asked. "Bella, we're new parents. We're going to make mistakes. We can't let that fear cripple us."
"How'd you get to be so smart?" I teased.
"It's a gift, baby," Edward said as he kissed my belly. "Oh, Squirt is going to town."
"She's been like that. All night. I'm sorry, child of mine, but my kidneys are not there for you to punch," I grumbled.
"Our daughter, the future soccer star," Edward smiled.
"Once again, pray that she doesn't inherit my clumsiness. I hope she has your grace and poise, Edward," I said.
"I'm so not graceful, Bella. I have my own clumsy moments," he snorted. "Need I remind you about the baseball incident?"
"Edward, you were nine and you had no depth perception. That has nothing to do with grace," I said. "You can move your body very sensually and smoothly. It's quite a turn on to see. Speaking of which…"
"Cashing in our rain check?" Edward asked, his golden eyes darkening.
"Oh yeah," I smiled. Edward grabbed my hands and we were upstairs, naked and grinding against each other faster than a blink of an eye.
I love my horny hubby.
Oh, wait. That's me…
xx TGGTP xx
The next day we went to register. Alice magically arrived and dragged us around the greater Chicagoland area to all of the baby stores and high end boutiques. The shower was a few weeks away, but she was insistent on making sure we had enough for our thirty guests to choose from. Edward finally saw what I was talking about with Alice's obsessive behavior for her niece. Our child. OURS! Not hers.
I think that Edward spoke with her to cool it down after our outing. She seemed to relax after that.
Thank goodness.
The weeks leading up to the baby shower were pretty low key and I was actually looking forward to it. Once Alice stopped being the baby shower Nazi. Shocking, I know. It was going to be held on our one year anniversary of being together. Memorial day weekend. The morning of the shower dawned bright and sunny. It was also very warm. Unseasonably so for Chicago. I was so grateful that we decided to have inside at the country club near Esme's home.
"Bellini?" Renee asked. "Are you ready for your shower?"
"I am. I can't believe it's here. I can't believe that I'm almost seven months pregnant. It seems like yesterday that I was getting married," I said as I sat down on the bed. Edward had taken Phil and Charlie out for breakfast this morning. However, I think it was more of a debrief about the Emmett situation. It was definitely grating on Edward's nerves. He was so paranoid about me getting hurt. I was afraid of Edward getting hurt. Or killed. I mean, Emmett murdered his own father. In cold blood. Imagine what he would do to Edward.
"Bella?" Renee asked. "You look pale, sweetheart."
"Minor kidney jab," I lied. "Can you zip me?" I turned around and my mom zipped up my bright pink maternity dress. It was pretty, but not something I'd choose for myself. Alice didn't tell me what to wear. Or rather, she didn't buy me anything. She just said to wear pink. I hated baby pink, so I grabbed this fuchsia monstrosity as a way to damn the man. Erm, Alice.
"Have you heard anything about Edward's brother?" Renee asked conversationally.
"No. And it's driving us nuts," I sighed as I went into the bathroom. I went to apply my makeup and curl my hair. My mom sat on the bathtub and stared at me. "It's definitely getting to Edward. I mean, he's not sleeping well at night. I'm not either but that's because Kyra is using my stomach as a punching bag. He holds me so tightly, Mom. He's so afraid of me getting hurt."
"He loves you, Bella. He'd do anything for you. For your baby," Renee said simply.
"Mom, he cries in his sleep," I whispered. "I first attributed it to his recent Lasik surgery, but that makes your eyes more dry. I mean, he's so self-assured and confident when he's awake, but when he's sleeping all of those barriers come down and he cries. It kills me to see him like that. I want to make it all go away but I don't know how."
"Just be there for him," Renee said as she brushed my hair back from my face.
"I'll try, but I'm afraid," I murmured. "What if Emmett gets him?"
"Pray that he doesn't," Renee said. "Let me curl your hair, Bellini. You need to be spoiled."
I sighed and nodded. Renee took my curling iron and put soft loopy curls in my hair. Once she was done, I finished putting on my accessories and went downstairs, carrying my shoes. Phil, Charlie and Edward were sitting in the family room watching the Cubs play. Phil was on injured reserve as he was recovering from another surgery to his shoulder.
"How was breakfast, boys?" Renee asked.
"Delicious," Phil said as he patted his belly. "Edward took us to this awesome diner that served the best omelet I ever had."
"Your trainer is going to be pissed if you gain too much weight, Mr. Dwyer," Renee chastised. "You're supposed to be getting back into shape. Not falling out of shape."
"I'm trying," Phil pouted.
"If you want, we can go running tomorrow. It'll have to be early because I have a meeting at eight," Edward offered. "There's a great path through Glenview."
"How early is early?" Phil asked, arching a brow.
"How many miles do you want to run?" Edward asked.
"He needs to run at least five," Renee admonished.
"Fuck," Phil grumbled. Charlie laughed behind his hand, trying to hide his grin.
"No, fuck. That's what your trainer said," Renee said, putting her hands on her hips.
"Be ready by 5:30, Phil," Edward said, clapping him on the thigh.
"You're going to kick my ass, aren't you, Edward?" Phil, asked, narrowing his eyes.
"Probably. I've gotten much better shape in the past few months and you appear to have not," Edward chortled. "Are we ready?"
"Definitely," I said. "But I need help with my shoes. I can't see my feet."
Edward took my hand and helped me onto the chair. He put on my shoes with a soft kiss on each knee before helping me back up and to the car. Edward insisted on driving us today. He hated being chauffeured around by Ricky or Johnny. However, they were in a car following us, just to be safe.
We pulled up to the country club and were greeted by a very hyper Alice. Jasper was trying to keep her at bay, but was unsuccessful. I gripped Edward's hand. "Can we just turn around and ignore your sister?" I squeaked.
"No, love. She'll just bug you until you relent," he snorted.
"Payback is a bitch. She's going to get her ass handed to her on a plate when she's pregnant," I said, narrowing my eyes. "Evil little troll."
"Is she always this 'excitable?'" Renee asked.
"Unfortunately, yes. My mom laughs that we came from the same womb. Alice is hyper and I'm reserved. Alice is short and I'm…"
"A fucking giant," I guffawed.
"Bella, I'm about average," Edward said, arching his brow. "6'2" is not classified as giant. As for my sister, in every way that we are can be opposite, we are. However, Alice tells me that I'm stronger now. Mentally, you know?"
"You are, baby," I smiled.
"Eh," Edward shrugged. "Shall we, Mrs. Cullen?"
"Definitely, Mr. Cullen," I smirked. Edward got out of the car and handed the keys to Johnny who was at the driver's side door. Edward ran around to the passenger side and helped me out of my superbeast and we walked into the country club. Renee and Esme were already speaking with each other. Phil went straight for the food and Charlie was looking incredibly uncomfortable by the doorway.
"Charlie? I want to introduce you to a good friend of mine," Esme said, a glint in her eyes.
"Is your mom trying to set up my dad with someone?" I hissed, grabbing his hand.
"I believe she is," Edward snickered. "This is going to be interesting." I nodded and giggled into Edward's shoulder. He kissed my forehead.
"Charlie, this is my dear friend, Sue Clearwater," Esme said to Charlie. An average sized woman with striking black hair and lightly tanned skin stood next to Esme. Her features were very exotic looking and she had a bright smile. "Her son, Seth, is a police officer in Evanston."
"Nice to meet you, Charlie," Sue said as she held out her hand.
Charlie just gaped at Sue. His mouth opening and closing like a cod. I wanted to run over to him and smack some sense into him. You don't stare at beautiful women, Charlie. Come on!
Marcus must have read my mind as he elbowed Charlie. Charlie held out his hand and introduced himself. Esme and Marcus stayed near them for a few minutes and then let them get to know each other. Edward and I turned and went to greet the other guests. Alice ran up to me and started tying something around my waist. "Alice, what are you doing?"
"It's a bow," Alice giggled.
"If you think that it's going to stay there, you are sadly mistaken my friend," I said, arching my brow. "I don't need any more attention to my belly than there already is, Mary Alice. Besides, it detracts from the hot pink frock I'm wearing."
"But…?" Alice whimpered.
"Don't, Younger," Edward said as he removed the bow. "How would you feel if it was you?"
"I'd probably hate it," Alice admitted.
"Then, don't subject my wife to the torture," Edward said. He handed Alice the bow and she went to put it on a tree or something. "Sometimes she just doesn't think."
"Her heart was in the right place," I shrugged. "But, thank you for your help, Edward."
"No problem. If she tried to tie a bow around my waist, I'd kick her butt," Edward laughed. "And I'm not pregnant."
"Yeah, you and your washboard abs," I said, narrowing my eyes. "I miss being able to see my feet."
"You'll see them again, gorgeous," he said as he put a hand on my belly. "But no matter what happens, I'll always love you." He leaned down and kissed my lips softly. Kyra punched at his hand and he chuckled. "Definitely a soccer star."
"I swear, I'm bruised on the inside from her kicks and jabs," I sighed. Alice gently led us to the head table. We sat down and talked with our families while we ate our meal. Edward and Jasper were being extra adversarial to each other. I swear, they were separated at birth with the constant ribbing and teasing they do to each other. Alice and I both ended up throwing our napkins at them. Alice sat down on Jasper's lap as she hissed at him to treat her brother nicely. I didn't subject Edward to my fat ass, but I did give him a stern talking to. He pouted adorably and I buckled. I ended up kissing his soft lips to make the frown turn upside down.
God, I'm so cheesy.
After I kissed him, Edward placed me on his lap, despite my protests. He arched a brow and said that I was fine. Whatever, I feel like I'm a hundred million pounds and I'm going to break his leg under the stress. Everything's great. Can you tell the sarcasm in my voice? Edward said that he could still pick me up and carry me. His leg would survive. As I was cuddled against Edward, Alex came over and sat down next to us.
"So…" he began. "Have you chosen the godparents?"
"Um, no," Edward said. "We're not overly religious, Alex. I mean, I went to religious education when I was kid."
"Hell, that's more than me," I snickered. "My mom believes that there is a God, but won't adhere to one religious ideology. With each faith, she finds something wrong with the doctrine."
"I was raised in the Catholic church," Edward said, wrinkling his nose. "I'm like your mom in the fact that I know that there is a God. But I do not care for the Catholic faith. Besides, I'm already going to hell based off my past transgressions."
"What would that be, Edward? You're like a saint," Alex giggled.
"Oh, there's a list. Number one: premarital sex. Huge sin in the Catholic church. Like mortal sin. Big no-no. Number two: birth control."
"Edward, your wife is pregnant," Alex said as he put his hand on my belly.
"I was on the shot before we got married. So, I'm going to hell. Not this one," I said as I elbowed his ribs.
"Whatever," Edward said with a wave of the hand. "At least we'll be in good company, right? Anymore sins?"
"Can't you just go to confession and it all goes away?" Alex asked.
"Sure. If I went to church. The last time I had a religious experience was at our wedding and that was not very religious," Edward smirked. "If we do have to baptize our child, it will not be Catholic. It's something that Bella and I need to figure out. And I apologize if my beliefs offend you, but it's what I feel."
"Trust me, no offense taken. I'm a walking sin, Edward. I'm gay. In every faith, I'm going to burn in hell," Alex said, arching his sculpted brow. "But like you said earlier, at least I'll be in good company."
"Back to the godparent statement, are you vying for the job, Alex?" I asked.
"Maybe," he said with an adorable little smile.
"We'll let you know, Alex," Edward said. Alex squealed and darted away. We were left alone for a few moments. Edward gazed at me with his beautiful amber eyes. "Who do you want to be the godparents of Kyra?"
"I don't know. My gut instinct is to go with your sister but…I don't know," I said "I'm also so close with Rose. Shit."
"There's nothing traditional about us, Bella. We could always have more than one set of godparents. Or we could have two god mothers. Whatever you want," Edward said as he pulled me closer to his chest.
"Who are your godparents?" I asked.
"Sue is my godmother. That's why she's here. And her husband, Harry was my godfather. However, he passed away a few years ago from a heart attack," Edward explained.
"Were you close with Seth?" I asked. "That's Sue's son, right?"
"Not really. He was much younger than me," Edward said.
"How old is Seth?"
"He just turned 23, I think?"
"Oh."
"He did have an older sister. But she was Emmett's age. Her name was Leah. She was not the nicest person," Edward grimaced. "Emmett and Leah were quite together in making my life miserable. They dated for awhile but it didn't work out. Obviously."
"Have you heard about Leah recently? Could she be working with Emmett?" I asked, my heart beginning to race.
"I've heard about her. She's in New York. She's married to some plastic surgeon. He's like a surgeon to the stars and makes big bucks. She's a stay at home mom," Edward explained. "Once Leah and Emmett went their separate ways, they didn't talk anymore. It was a nasty breakup. Like it almost cost Sue and Esme their friendship."
"Wow. Is Leah still a mega-bitch?" I asked.
"Don't know. Don't care," Edward shrugged. "We'll have to figure out the godparent situation before the baptism and such."
"We have time," I said. "Okay, my ass is falling asleep. With the extra muscles you've acquired, you're not as squishy."
"Squishy?" Edward snorted. "I was squishy before?"
"Softer. Kind of," I said, biting my lip. "You were always 'hard' but not as…aw, hell. I don't know what the heck I'm saying. I've turned into a house and you're like Superman with the muscles."
"Bella, you are beautiful," Edward chastised. "Absolutely gorgeous, my love."
"I'll just feel better when I'm back to my own size," I grumbled. "I just feel huge."
"It's time for presents," Alice chirped. She grabbed my hands and dragged me to another room where we were opening presents. It was completely decked out in pink and ladybugs. On the tables were mounds of presents. Like, more presents than our daughter would EVER need. Edward and I shared a look of complete shock as we saw the table filled with the pink and purple wrapped gifts. "You have a ton to get through, so let's boogie."
"How are we going to fit all of these into the car?" I asked Edward.
"Your guess is as good as mine," he said, arching a brow.
"Oh, we rented a truck, Edward. Johnny is going to drive it home. We have more than just what's on the tables," Alice explained.
"Holy hell," Edward and I mumbled.
Alice led us to the chairs near the tables and the rest of the party gathered in the other room. Once everyone was seated, Edward stood next to me and kissed my head. "First off, we'd like to thank all of you for coming," Edward said. "It seems like yesterday that we were celebrating our wedding and now we are excited about our first child. Secondly, I can't speak for Bella, but I'm truly humbled at your generosity for our baby. We were just asking how we were going to get all of the boxes and presents back home. Of course, my sister, who is the consummate planner, informed us that she rented a truck. Anyhow, thank you so much for your kindness, love and support for our daughter. We love all of you and can't even begin to thank you."
"Yeah, what he said," I snickered. The crowd laughed Edward sat down. Rose and Alice put presents in each of our laps and we began working through the huge pile of presents. As predicted, we got everything off our registry and them some more. Nearly two hours later, we were almost done with our pile of presents for Kyra. We only had the gifts from Renee and Phil, Esme and Marcus and Rose and Alice. I was handed a card from Alice and I tore into it. It was from Renee and Phil. I held up a photo of the rocking chair and ottoman that they had gotten us.
Rose grabbed Edward's hand and led him to the corner of the room. They were speaking quietly when Rose pushed out the baby stroller that we had registered for. It was quite humorous seeing Edward push a pink baby stroller. Rose pointed something out in the stroller's handle. Inside was a card. "The stroller and baby seat are from Esme. Apparently Johnny is getting it installed into our SUV as we speak. The card is from Marcus," Edward explained. He opened it up and his face paled. "Holy shit."
"Edward Anthony Masen Cullen, watch your mouth," Esme snickered.
"What?" I asked.
"It's a trust fund set up for Kyra," Edward squeaked. "She can go to college like a hundred times. Marcus…Papa, thank you. So much."
"Anything for my son," Marcus said as he hugged Edward. "I'm looking forward to being a grandfather. Demetri is taking too long in that venture."
"Papa, in case you haven't noticed, Alex can't have babies," Demetri laughed.
"Adoption, my boy," Marcus said, arching his brow. "But get married first."
"Yeah," Alex chirped as he pinched Demetri's side. He yelped and growled at his boyfriend.
"Okay, last present," Alice said. "It's from Rose and me. Jasper got Edward a lifetime's supply of beer but I wouldn't let him bring that to the shower."
"It would have been funny," Jasper said seriously.
"Thank you for the beer, Jasmine. Since you always drink MY beer when you come over to visit," Edward said, pushing the stroller to pile of gifts. God, that is too funny. Tall, handsome, geeky man pushing a pink stroller. "What are you giggling at, Bella?"
"You pushing a pink stroller," I bellowed. "We should have gotten a 'gender neutral' stroller. Save your masculinity."
"I'm perfectly comfortable pushing a pink stroller, Isabella Marie," Edward said as he sat down next to me. "Hell, I'm wearing pink now."
"Yes. Yes, you are, angel," I said as I pulled on his tie.
"Here's our present," Rose said, handing over a large bag to Edward and a card to me.
I opened the card and laughed. "Only you two would gift a lifetime's worth of clothes to your niece."
"Kyra is going to be the best dressed girl. Ever," Alice said. "With the two of you, she'd be wearing Target or Walmart clothes."
"Hey," Edward and I said. "We both dress nicely. I picked out the outfit for Edward. He looks good. And don't knock Target."
"Or Walmart," Edward said. "Just because it doesn't cost a lot of money doesn't mean that it's bad. I know for a fact that the tie that Jasper is wearing came from Walmart."
"What?" Alice shrieked. "Jasper Whitlock…"
"Edward," Jasper hissed. "You're not supposed to say that."
"I was there when he bought it," Edward smirked.
"Alice, relax, sweetie," Esme sighed. "You will understand once you have children. If I bought you and your siblings' designer clothing when you were kids, I'd be broke. With the amount of times that Emmett slid in the grass, Edward falling and scraping his knees and you with the paint? You wore discount brand clothing, my dear. Don't knock it."
"Ha!" Edward laughed as he pointed to his sister.
"I wore discount clothes?" she whimpered.
"I believe she got our clothes from Venture, Younger," Edward smiled. "Tee hee, Alice is tormented."
"Don't tease your sister, Edward. She's going through a traumatic experience," Esme snickered.
"Sorry, Mom," Edward said unapologetically. He looked into the bag and his breath caught. "Oh my word. This is absolutely gorgeous!" He pulled out a quilt from the bag. It was brown and pink like the nursery. "Did you make this?"
"I did," Rose said. "Once Bella told me that you were having a girl, I went to the store and got all different types of fabrics in the colors in the room. I took a class on quilting and this is the result. There's also a few more things in the bag."
Edward handed me the quilt and ran my hands over the top of the fabric. It was soft and beautiful. "Rose, this is so perfect. Thank you," I whispered.
"Anything for my sister. My best friend," Rose said as she kissed my cheek.
"Of course Alice bought Kyra clothes," Edward sighed.
"She will wear the pink outfit when she leaves from the hospital," Alice chirped.
"Alice, I already have her outfit for going home," I said.
"But…?"
"No, but's, Alice," I said.
"Don't mess with her, Alice. Once she's made up her mind, Bella will refuse to budge. I've learned that. Quickly," Edward said as he kissed my neck. "Anyhow, thank you for everything. We definitely are set for once Kyra arrives."
"Thank you, Alice and Rose for all of your help with the shower and just in general," I smiled.
"You're welcome, Bellini," Rose said. Hugs went around and Ricky and Johnny came to load up the presents into the rental truck that Alice had procured. They also handed us a large teddy bear for Kyra. It was actually a 'nanny' cam and we promised to use it. Once the gifts were loaded up, we got into our car and went home. Ricky was in front of us in his Jeep and Johnny was behind us in the rental truck. Charlie drove Renee and Phil back to the house as we lost a seat because of the newly added car seat loaded up in the back.
"So, what should be do for the godparent issue?" I asked. "Alex really has my mind reeling because of his question."
"I don't know, love," Edward murmured. "I would love to have Rose and Alice both be godmothers."
"What about a godfather?" I asked. "Would you want Jasper to take on that role?"
"God, no. He'd teach our daughter how to burp, fart and act like a jackass," Edward said flatly. "However, since he's been my friend for so long, I would hate to take this away from him."
"Edward, I get what you're saying. And I agree with you. Jasper would take our daughter to bars and strip clubs," I shuddered. "That's just wrong. What about Demetri? Or Alex?"
"Hmmm," Edward muttered. "Here's a suggestion. We don't have to decide today, but it might work. How about you choose the godmother and I choose the godfather?"
"Or I choose the godfather and you choose the godmother," I amended.
"I like that better," Edward said thoughtfully. "We'll inform them once we get back from Esme and Marcus' wedding."
"That's doable," I said. "You're so smart, baby."
"I know. I try," he smiled as he kissed my hand. "I love you, Bella."
"I love you, more, angel," I said as I drew one of his fingers into my mouth.
"Bella, don't start something you can't finish," he warned. "We have house guests and we both know that you are definitely not quiet. Your mother will know if we are getting it on."
"Damn. What time are they going to the airport tomorrow?"
"Six in the evening, love. Ricky is going to drive them," Edward explained.
"I guess I'll just have to wait," I shrugged. "But I am pregnant. She knows we have sex, Edward. I'm sorry, but Kyra was not conceived by immaculate conception."
"She was conceived on our kitchen counter," Edward snorted.
"I know," I said, waggling my brows. "That was fun."
"God, you are so insatiable, Bella. What's going to happen after you have Kyra and we can't have sex for six weeks?"
"How do you know that?" I asked.
"I read, my dear," Edward said dryly. "So?"
"Probably after I push her out, I'll be cursing you and your supercock. I won't want to have sex," I snickered. "You'll have to deal with your hand."
"Oh, goody," Edward smiled wryly.
"Let's just say that I want to make love to you while I still can. I'm already feeling like a heifer. I won't want to make love when I weigh more than you," I said. "I don't want to break your pelvis."
"Bella, please. Enough with the comments about your weight. You are carrying our child. I don't care if you have a belly, double chin or you can't see your feet. You are so incredibly sexy that I'm constantly sporting wood when I'm around you. Do I need put your hand on my cock? I mean really, Bella," Edward said, arching his brow.
"I'm sorry," I said contritely. "I've always been tiny and this is weird for me."
"When we get home, I'm going to show you how much I love your body. Our house guests be damned. I want to hear you scream my name out of pure pleasure. Consider that my anniversary present for you. Which I did get you something, by the way. It's at the house," Edward explained.
"Anniversary? Shit, Edward. I didn't get you anything," I pouted.
"Bella, I don't want anything from you. Being married to you and spending the rest of my life with you is present enough," he said. He pulled into our garage and helped me out of the car. I waddled into the kitchen and sat down on one of the stools. "I'm going to help Ricky and Johnny with the presents and then you, me, bathtub and candles. Got it?"
"Yes, sir," I said with a salute. As he said that, my phone chirped from my purse. It was a text from my mom.
Going out to dinner with Esme, Marcus, Charlie and Sue (OMG!). Be back later – Mom
"Yes!" I said as I did a fist pump. I slid off the stool and went up the stairs. I don't know how I did it, but I managed to get my shoes off my feet. I then removed my dress and wrapped my body in a robe. I lit the candles in the bathroom and filled up the tub with hot water. I put on the Jacuzzi jets and slid into the fragrant water and smiled as I did so.
"Bella?" Edward called.
"Bathroom," I smiled. He came in and had a tiny bag in his hands. He put it onto the counter and his clothes were essentially ripped off his toned and sexy body. Fuck me. I love his abs. And his chin. And his cock. And fuuuuuuuuuuck….
"You're staring at me like I'm a side of beef again, love," Edward snickered.
"What? You're fucking hot," I said, licking my lips. I moved forward and Edward slipped in behind me.
"So are you, gorgeous," he said as he moved my hair off my neck. His tongue glided along my pulse point and I moaned. Loudly. "Don't hold back, Bella. I want to hear you."
"Okay," I said as I turned my head. Edward lips met mine hungrily and his tongue plunged between my teeth. My hands moved to his hair and neck and I pulled on them. Hard. Edward moaned in my mouth. "I need you, Edward."
"I know you do," he said as he kissed down my neck to the juncture of where my neck met my shoulder. Edward's hands moved to my breasts and he kneaded them gently. "I need you, too. Straddle my legs but keep facing that way, love."
I got to my knees and did as he asked. I felt his arousal poke me in the ass. We did delve into anal sex and I was surprisingly turned on by it. Like, I came more than I'd ever come before. We'd done it several times since then and I was hoping that he would take me back there today. "Edward," I moaned as swiveled hips. "I need to have you."
He smirked and his fingers circled my ass. I scooted forward and begged with my eyes for him to take me. In every way. He guided his cock to my other entrance and pushed inside. We'd been doing it enough that I didn't need to be prepped like before. The water provided the lubrication that we needed. I fell forward, gripping his thighs for leverage. "Fuck, baby. You are so tight."
"So, good, Edward," I moaned as slowly moved of his cock. I never thought I'd like sex like this, but with him, it was so special. The first time we tried it, we ended up laughing hysterically as the lube exploded all over the bed. However, it broke the ice and we managed to play. It was mainly our fingers that worked that time. Even Edward liked it when I dipped my fingers back there. He was shocked at first but shit, when he came, it damn near flew across the room.
"God, I can never last long when we're like this, Bella," Edward croaked. "Touch yourself, baby."
I snaked my hand over my belly and reached my swollen bud. I ran my fingers over my sensitive skin. Edward's hand joined mine and slipped between my folds. With the combination of his cock in my ass, his fingers in my pussy and my hand on my clit, I screamed so loudly and came so hard. My body quaked as I shuddered in pleasure. He kissed my neck and back as rocked against him. His other hand gently squeezed my tender breasts. My orgasm must have triggered his as his body went rigid under mine. He grunted loudly and his hand on my breast twisted my nipple. He thrust a few more times before he slipped out. I nudged his legs apart and settled between them, nuzzling his chest.
"Damn woman," he snickered. "You feel so good. I will never tire of feeing you like that."
"It's definitely sensory overload for me too," I said. "Though, I was surprised when you first mentioned it to me."
"I was surprised that you were willing," Edward murmured as he kissed my temple. "I think the first time we did this definitely broke the ice."
"Oh yeah," I snickered, looking back at him. His face was flushed and his grinning stupidly. "I liked those sheets, too."
"I'd gladly take losing the sheets as a trade of being more intimate with my wife," Edward said as he bopped my nose. "But, thank you for trusting me."
"Thank you for being patient," I smiled. "I love you, Edward. And happy anniversary."
"Hmmm, anniversary," he said as he kissed me deeply. I felt him grow hard against my back. "Your present. I think you'll like it. Are we done with our bath, love?"
"Definitely. I'm cold," I shivered. Edward nodded and hopped out, pulling the plug from the tub. He wrapped a towel around his slender waist and helped me out of the tub. With reverence, he wiped my body down and helped me into the robe that I brought in with me. We went into the bedroom and Edward pulled on a pair of shorts before sitting down next to me on the bed.
"Happy anniversary, love," Edward said as he put the bag on my knee. I arched a brow and tore into the bag. Inside was a small jewelry box. I flipped it open. Inside, there were a pair of earrings that matched my engagement ring. I inhaled sharply and tears started to flow down my cheeks. "Do you like them?"
"I love them, Edward. So beautiful," I muttered.
"I know you're hating the fact that you can't wear your engagement and wedding rings. So, I spoke with Stan and showed him your ring. He found the stones and had these made for you," Edward said. "Can you believe that a year ago today, we had our first kiss?"
"We had your first date and I became your first girlfriend?" I smiled. "It seems like so long ago, but not. You know?"
"Definitely. What a difference a year makes, love. Now, we're married and expecting our first child," he said as he opened my robe, placing his hands on my bare belly. "I love you, Bella." He kissed me sweetly. "I love you, Kyra." Edward leaned down and kissed my belly.
I gently pulled his chin back up to force him to look at me. His golden eyes were filled with tears but he had a radiant grin. He leaned in and kissed my lips again. We made love slowly and with each thrust, solidified our passion for each other.
Our love.
Our joy.
Our relationship.
Our friendship.
Our connection.
Life couldn't be more perfect. And I'm so blessed to have Edward in my life. My best friend. My lover. My husband. My soul mate.
A/N: Baby shower…not too bad. Alice tried to be a superbossy nosy pants. But what can you do? Bella, in her snarky wisdom, put Alice in her place. Anyhow, I need your help with the godparents. Who? Let me know in a review and it'll make me happy. Also, if you have a reason, tell me. Anyhow, up next will be the trip to Italy for Marcus and Esme's wedding. That'll probably take a few chapters. Leave me love (or hate!) Getting reviews is almost as good as making love with Geekward.