Author's Note - And yet another chapter! I cannot believe the wonderful response this story is receiving - it's amazing!

Thank you for all the great reviews, I try to reply to every one of them ;)

Did you know that Apple Juice is one of the best things to drink whilst writing? I found that out through experience.

Anyway, enough of my pointless rambling, on with the story!

Disclaimer - Everything Twilight belongs to Stephenie Meyer, I just own Gypsyward.


~ Chapter 4 ~

July 16th - Home Is Where The Heart Is.


I slept well that night, dreaming only of Edward and our future. It was all very vivid.

Edward woke me up with breakfast in bed and warm, soft kisses. His breath always smelled sweet, even after sleeping all night and drinking certain substances from my body.

I snarfed down my cereal, starved from yesterday since I had never gotten to eat those cookies or anything else for that matter. I even - blushing furiously - asked for a second bowl. Nothing wrong with some extra protein, I told myself.

"Hungry?" Edward had quipped with a cheeky smirk as he dug into his third bowl with just as much enthusiasm. I had glared and pouted at him, my legs crossed on the bed, my bowl resting on my knees.

"Says the boy who is tucking into his third bowl of cereal," I had retorted, my eyes drifting back to my own bowl and smirking.

Let's just say I had to beg and plead again for him to stop tickling me after that comment.

We were packed up properly now and on our way to Forks. I had wrapped up the remaining horse ornaments in some old newspaper and stashed them away under the bed for safe keeping.

I wept a little as I stored Alice and Rose's bags into a cupboard and Edward had held me, telling me we would find them one day after it had all blown over. I hoped that was true.

Edward had called his parents on his 'emergency mobile phone'. He didn't often use it, but liked to have it within reach anyway. I was now sitting up beside Edward on the small wooden step used as a seat for Edward to control Forky.

There was a cool breeze blowing along the road we were on. Each side of the road was covered in hedges, grass and fields behind stone walls. Cows mooed and sheep grunted as they munched away. Even a few horses wandered up towards the wall and nickered softly at Forky who responded just as readily.

Edward told me they were mares and that was why Forky was excited. Edward had one arm wrapped around my waist and the other holding the reins. Forky plodded along proudly, not seeming to mind the weight of the cart he was pulling with all his strength, including mine and Edward's weight.

I leaned against Edward, my head resting on his shoulder, feeling completely at ease. This truly was home. A thought came to me and I stiffened suddenly.

"Are you certain your parents won't mind me being with you?" I murmured anxiously, nibbling my bottom lip. Edward took his eyes off the road to stare down at me with his captivating green orbs.

"Bella, they will absolutely adore you," He said close to my ear and I relaxed my tense posture and sighed. "My mother wasn't actually born into the Gypsy culture, if that makes you feel any better," He said as an afterthought with a small smile.

"Really?"

"Yeah, my maternal grandmother died giving birth to her and my grandfather wanted nothing to do with her. He blamed Esme for my grandmother's death," He shrugged, a grimace forming on his perfect lips.

"That's horrible!" I exclaimed softly, clasping his hand that was on my waist in comfort.

"That's life I suppose, although I would never abandon my child if my partner died," He whispered angrily, his fists clenching. "That would be more than I could bear. It wouldn't be the child's fault - it would only be a tiny little baby," He murmured passionately as he shook his head.

"I can't imagine ever giving up my baby," I whispered, my head reeling at the thought. Who could do such a thing?

"My grandfather took Esme to a local adoption agency and left her on the doorstep. It was late at night and no one came in or out at that time, so Esme was left in the cold all night, lying on the hard, concrete steps which she could have easily rolled over and tumbled down," He swallowed with a frown, "My un-biological grandmother and grandfather were passing through the town in the trailer I inherited when they came across my mother, shivering in a thin swaddling cloth on the Adoption Agency's doorstep. They took her in, fed her, warmed her and kept her," He remembered with a happy smile, his green eyes twinkling.

"They never regretted it. They loved Esme like their own. You see, Elizabeth was unable to have children but she desperately wanted a baby. Esme was the perfect answer. Elizabeth's husband, Edward, bonded with Esme and they were utterly inseparable," He grinned a little and steered Forky round a tight bend in the road. The road we were on was quiet, no cars or other vehicles had passed us yet.

"So, are you named after Edward Senior?" I teased, squeezing his hand.

"Yes. Esme wanted me to have a part of her adoptive father in me and the name suits me just fine," He chuckled.

"It does," I agreed happily. It was an old fashioned name, but Edward was the perfect name for him. I don't know why, but Edward was an Edward. I couldn't imagine him being called anything else.

"My name is actually Isabella, but I hate that," I said disgustedly. Apparently, my father - Charlie - had picked it out.

"Isabella," Edward mused. "Did your mother use that on you when you were in trouble?" He laughed, kissing my forehead. I nodded and rolled my eyes.

"Oh God, don't remind me! I got the full works. If Renee wanted to tell me off it would be - 'Isabella Marie Swan!' and I would know I was in deep trouble," I shook my head and looked up at my Gypsy to see him full on smirking.

"Exactly. Esme and Carlisle did the same to me. They weren't harsh parents, but liked to have me in line and gentlemanly so if I played a boyish prank on another unassuming Gypsy child then I would get 'Edward Anthony Masen Cullen! Get over here before I kick your hide!'," He chuckled in remembrance.

I smiled at the thought of a young Edward, his hair still a copper disarray, his cute little face pouting as his mother told him off.

"That's a mouthful of a name," I teased, gently nudging his side. He rolled his eyes.

"Tell me about it. My mother was the one who would usually call on me like that and she was a scary woman back then when she was cross. It was the only way I knew I was in deep shit," He huffed and smiled a little. "My dad hardly ever interfered with my tellings-off, but he would give me a stern look and I backed down. I respect him too much, I guess. I never made a fuss as a child," He shrugged lightly, rubbing circles on my arm.

"My mom just gave me a lecture while I stood there and called her names in my head like 'wicked willy witch' or 'prissy prada drama queen'," I remembered with a grin. "She never knew any better," I sighed, shaking my head.

"Your strategy was better than mine!" He chuckled "I imagined throwing a cream pie in my Mom's face and ended up laughing out loud and getting into even more trouble," He made an adorably cute pout and laughed a little.

"Oh my God, no wonder you got into trouble!" I sputtered with laughter as I pictured a chortling young Edward getting a good telling off.

"It was funny at the time, now it's just hilarious," He burst out laughing along with me. When our giggles died down I sighed and ran my hand up and down his back.

"I'm happy I have you now," I smiled and closed my eyes, tracing his sinewy muscles through the fabric of his shirt.

"You have no idea how grateful I am that you walked into my life," He said softly, clutching me closer to him. He lifted me gently into his lap, carefully minding my healing side. I snuggled into his chest as I rested on his knees.

"My parents will love you like their own - especially my mother," He soothed me as I kept my eyes closed. "My father will think you adorable. I promise you. They have been badgering me about finding someone of my own for ages and have always said I didn't have to take on another Gypsy as my partner, just as long as I was happy. And I am very happy with you Ms. Swan," He crooned into my ear, his warm breath tickling the hairs on the back of my neck. I wrapped my arms around him and sighed contently.

"I'm glad," I opened my eyes to gaze into his green ones and he smiled down at me lazily, his beautiful mouth twitching with amusement. "I'm sure I will love Esme and Carlisle too," I sniffled, tears forming in my eyes at the thought of having a new family to love, one that might care for me in return.

My Mother had never been affectionate, loving or caring. I hadn't ever met my Dad and that thought saddened me. Would he have been different? Would he have loved me?

"Shh, I have you," Edward whispered, cradling me gently, letting Forky's reins drop as he pulled the cart forward without assistance. Emily appeared beside me and mewled softly, hopping into my lap and snuggling into me, purring affectionately.

I smiled and stroked her dear little face, lifting her onto my chest and letting her fall asleep. I stayed cuddled into Edward's lap until we came to some services further along the road. It was really a petrol station, but had a small shop attached to it.

"Want some lunch?" Edward asked softly, jogging me in his arms as he parked the trailer round the side of the shop, away from prying eyes.

"Sounds good," I agreed. I was starving and could eat a horse. No offence, Forky. Edward grabbed his wallet and I went inside to find mine, spying it hidden under one of the seats. Mickey Mouse was a bit muddy and worn, but I shoved it in my pocket anyway.

Edward had washed my jeans and shirt in his washbasin with soap and they smelled good as new so I didn't feel like a tramp.

We walked hand in hand towards the shop, smiling at each other every few seconds. The sun was high in the sky, but it wasn't too warm. The shop was wooden and old fashioned looking and I loved it.

There was a small café inside so Edward pushed the door open for me and we walked in, settling at an unaccompanied table in the corner of the shop.

"What would you like?" Edward questioned, handing me the menu like a gentleman. I scanned the menu and stabbed my finger on my favourite food to eat for lunch.

"That," I grinned, pointing to the words 'prawn and mayo sandwich'. Edward made a face and shook his head.

"Yuck, prawns," He blanched adorably and I glared.

"They're yummy!" I retorted childishly. He rolled his eyes leaned over to look at the menu, a grin spreading across his face.

"Oh great, they have cheese toasties!" He exclaimed with a bright smile. It was my turn to gag.

"Ew." I wrinkled my nose in disgust. Cheese and toast. Insert shudder here.

"Yum," He narrowed his eyes and I laughed.

"Okay, so what food do we both like?" I asked, curious. He ran a hand through his messy copper hair and pondered my question.

"Well, I love pasta and Ragu sauce," He licked his lips.

"Same! It's delicious," I agreed.

"Good, we found something we won't quibble over," He sighed fondly and took my hand over the table as the blonde waitress approached.

She reminded me of my old therapist - Lauren - and I instantly hated her. I know I shouldn't judge, but anyone with fake blonde hair, tits and nails gets on my nerves.

This woman had corkscrew curly bleached blonde hair and was clearly wearing a push-up bra to emphasize the basketballs - that were supposedly boobs - hanging out of her white t-shirt.

"Hi there! I'm Tanya and I'll be serving you today, what can I get ya'll?" She asked directly to Edward, pushing her chest out a little more. He didn't even glance her way, instead keeping his gaze on me.

"Bella?" He smiled at me pointedly. What a gentleman, I thought with a smile.

"We'll have a large bowl of pasta and Ragu sauce to share please," I emphasised the 'we'll' and 'share' to her as she unwillingly slid her eyes over to me and frowned.

"Oh. Right." She replied rudely and scribbled the order down on her little black notepad, gripping the pen crossly. I held sympathy for that pen.

"And two cokes please," Edward chipped in quietly, still gazing at me. She was clearly unsatisfied with his ignoring her so she tried again. She turned to face Edward again, ignoring me and began trying to flirt with him right in front of my face. Stupid bitch.

"Is that all? Isn't there anything else I can do for you?" She leered at Edward in a nasal voice, leaning down to bring her fake tits closer to his face. He was definitely getting a good view. I was fuming.

I ripped my hand out of his and folded them across my chest, looking away in disgust. He cleared his throat discreetly and leaned away slightly, a disgusted look also beginning to cover his face.

"Excuse me, could you get your chest out of my face and get our order? That would be great. My girl is hungry," He snarled crossly, gesturing to me and Tanya flinched. Even I gaped at him with wide eyes and gulped.

"Umm…S-sorry sir, I…-," She stammered, her face flushing. She clearly wasn't used to men snapping at her like that.

"Save it. Just clear off before I report you," He grumbled and she fled, a disappearing blur of a red apron and blonde hair behind the curtain that lead to the kitchen. He looked lethal, his hair ruffled, his eyes narrowed into slits and his fingers gripping the edge of the table.

I smirked wider than ever before. "You are amazing," I breathed. He snorted and relaxed considerably.

"She was annoying," He shuddered. "Fake, nasty and totally unoriginal with her pick-up lines," He shook his head in disgust.

"It was kind of sexy watching you snap at her," I confessed, blushing. He ran his thumb over my knuckles and chuckled.

"Sexy? I was shocked at myself. I hardly ever snap at people like that, let alone strangers, but the way she was ignoring you was just rude," He stated, glancing at the kitchen door with a scowl. He looked adorable and I wanted to kiss him.

"Well, it worked," I nodded towards the door where he was glaring.

"Hmm, she better stay clear - there is only two women in my life; you and my mom," He said, his eyes sliding back over to me and grinning. I melted inside for the millionth time and squeezed his hand.

"Good to know," I smirked. I was giddy at the thought of being Edward's girl, it sent tingles up and down my spine

Our food came a short while later. A timid girl with short mousy hair called Jessica served us from then onwards, Tanya seemingly cowering in the kitchen.

"I'm sorry about Tanya's behaviour - the meal is on the house," Jessica gave a sad little smile and walked away. Edward rubbed his chin with an anxious expression.

"Now I feel really bad," He grimaced, "She is obviously terrified of me," He pointed with his chin towards a retreating Jessica. I smiled wanly.

"Yeah, but she was sweet and nice - nothing like Mrs. Fake Tits," I declared. Edward guwaffed and dug his fork into the steaming pasta, placing a piece in his mouth and chewing slowly with a moan. I really wanted to be that bit of pasta right now.

He slyly looked over at me and smirked, dipping his fork back into the pasta and offering it to me. I smiled and accepted it, opening my mouth and moaning, teasing him right back. He swallowed and watched intently as I chewed and smirked, licking my lips.

"You tease - I'll get you for that later," He warned with a playful glare.

I pretended to look afraid and cower. "Oh no, not more torture," I whispered and he chuckled darkly.

"Yes, Isabella, yes," He answered in a dark whisper, licking his lips and tucking into the meal again.

We shared stories back and forth about weird happenings, ghosts, our beliefs and crushes. I told him I was an Atheist, but have total respect for other religions. He told me he was unsure, he couldn't decide what to believe since he found out that Santa was in fact his mother and father. I chuckled at that one.

When we were finished, Edward pulled out a pen from his pocket and scribbled a note onto a napkin. He left some money beside it and we got up.

"What did you write?" I asked.

"I left a tip for Jessica and a note stating it was for her and her alone - she didn't deserve to be at the bad end of my temper," He said with a small, guilty smile and took my hand.

"Your so sweet," I chided, kissing his cheek. He grinned and kissed me back as we went out the door.

We gave Forky some water and oats and then we mounted the trailer and set off again, not looking back.

"How far now?" My head lolled against his shoulder, my hands folded in my lap.

"Hmm, not long to go now. I'd say only five more miles," He answered with an award-winning smile, holding me close to his body with one arm wrapped securely around me. He held Forky's reins firm as the road became narrower with quite a few more bends and twists.

I enjoyed the feeling of the cart swaying gently with Forky's tempo and the quiet, repetitious clatter of the large wheels. Edward stopped a few times to give Forky a drink and a short rest before we were on our way again.

"Nervous?" He murmured softly near my ear as we passed numerous signs leading to Forks.

I bit my lip and gulped. "Yes."

"Don't be. Remember what I said, my mother and father will love you. I swear by it," He soothed, stroking my hair with his fingers, running them down my long, loose tresses.

"Your hair is gorgeous when down," He crooned with a smile.

"I prefer it down, it's too much fuss to pin it up," I sighed and sat up a little straighter from my slouched position. We were now passing more and more trees and mountains as the cart travelled further and further into the Olympic Peninsula and on towards Forks.

"Will your parents already be there?" I asked quietly.

"Yeah, they know a lot of shortcuts to get here and we were further away when we set off," Edward rubbed the back of his neck as if he was getting slightly nervous and I nibbled my lip harder.

"Please don't be frightened," He murmured softly, "They are going to be so excited to meet you and Mom will have already have prepared her finest food for us," He smiled, gently taking my lip out from behind my teeth with his soft thumb.

I gazed up at him with all the love I could muster and moved to kiss him softly. His hands went to the back of my neck, the reins once more forgotten.

His lips caressed mine as I parted mine to allow his tongue to sweep over my trembling lips. I placed my hands on his shirt clad shoulders and shuffled closer to him, closing the distance between us.

"My Bella," He sighed as he closed his eyes and leaned his forehead on mine for a short while until he needed to hold the reins again.

Soon, the cart was rumbling swiftly up a small hill towards a field in the near distance. From where I sat I could already see a small, colourful blob in the middle of the field that I was certain was Edward's mother and father's cart. My heart thumped erratically in my chest and my breathing became tight.

What if they hated me? What if they really did not want me and Edward's words were merely those of comfort? Edward noticed my hyperventilation and instantly pulled me into his lap.

"Hey, hey, it's okay honey, it's okay," He soothed, running his hands up and down my cheeks in comfort. A few stray tears escaped my eyes and he kissed them away, his face an array of concern.

"I'm sorry," I choked out, sobbing into his warm, firm chest as he cradled me.

"Don't you dare worry - I know that things have been difficult lately, but this our holiday now ans we're together - you're not alone anymore. I'm here, I'm here," He rocked me gently back and forth until I calmed down enough to sit back on the seat, flushing with embarrassment.

"I'm so annoying," I muttered crossly, burying my face in my hands, angrily glaring at the floorboards that my feet were on.

"Nah, you're just adorable," Edward nudged my shoulder playfully and I laughed quietly.

"I'm glad you think so," I smiled and took his callused hand in mine, running my thumb over the soft skin that habituated the back of his hand.

The trailer in the field was much closer now and I tried desperately to control my heart rate and breathing.

Everything will be fine. Everything will be fine. Everything will be fine, I told myself over and over, although I wasn't entirely sure about it.

Edward hopped down to open an iron gate which led into the field and I began to bite my nails in anxiety.

"Ready?" Edward asked quietly, gently taking my hand and stroking my knuckles like I had done for him.

"Yeah, let's do this," I said bravely, faking a smile. He saw right through me and leaned in to give me a soft, encouraging kiss which I wanted so badly to deepen, but wanted to make a good impression on his parents so I held back.

Forky lead the trailer over the tall grass, trudging through it easily and on towards the trailer which matched Edward's and was the home of his parents.

I took a deep breath and closed my eyes, readying myself before Edward helped me down off the cart, then untying Forky from the harness. He smiled at me as a curtain flew aside from the other cart and a middle aged woman was running towards us, her arms wide, her eyes shining.

"My son!" She cried into Edward's ear as she threw herself at him, hugging him for all she was worth.

"Hey Mom," He murmured just as softly as he did to me. The woman, who I assumed was Esme, pulled back, tears in her wise, deep honey coloured eyes.

"I've missed you," She whispered and cupped his cheek, Edward smiling and placing his hand over his Mother's. It looked so private, their embraces and touches, that I had to look away for a moment until I felt strong arms wrap around my neck and pull me close.

"And you must be Bella," Esme said softly into my ear. "It's an absolute pleasure to meet you my darling," She smiled warmly as she ran her hands over my arms in a motherly fashion, something my Mom had never done.

This woman looked deep into my eyes and sighed in an awed manner.

"She is beautiful Edward!" She exclaimed, looking me up and down, then turning to look at her son who was grinning ear to ear and leaning casually against our cart.

"Of course Mother, I take after Dad," He chuckled and Esme laughed, a deep throated sound that made you want to join in.

She turned back to me and I saw her whole face properly. She was stunning for her age, her caramel coloured tresses flowing in light waves down her slender back, her butterscotch eyes swirling with happiness and joy.

She wore a simple purple cotton dress adorned with a white cardigan and little purple flats that matched her dress. A gold necklace with a heart pendant hung around her neck, the heart resting in the neat gap of her collarbone. She looked every inch the perfect mother and not like a Gypsy at all.

"Bella, welcome to our family," She murmured, cupping my cheek like she had done to Edward and I nearly choked on tears.

"Thank you," I whispered tentatively as Edward looked down, smiling. Something about this woman made me want to curl up in her warm, motherly embrace and never leave. She was everything my Mom has never been. Her scent was floral, with a hint of mint about her and it made me feel…safe. My Mom had always stank of smoke from her cigarettes and I never hugged her. Ever.

"My son really does care for you," She said quietly, lowering her voice as Edward pushed off the cart, gave us a heart-melting smile, and then headed towards Esme and Carlisle's cart, no doubt wanting to speak with his Dad.

"I care for him more than he will ever know - I promise you, I will never hurt him," I bit my lip and gazed into her warm eyes which sparkled.

"I know," She winked. "He is besotted with you. Never has he taken such an interest in a woman, let alone bring her home to meet us," She smiled fondly, clearly pleased he had found me. She was slightly taller than me by about an inch, but I still felt safe and wanted.

"Come, come sit," She gestured to two chairs sitting on the grass outside her cart. It had been flattened down by someone to make room for the old wooden rocking chairs. I sat down and Esme followed, picking up some wool and knitting needles out of a small wicker basket beside her chair and returning to her pattern.

I looked to my left and saw a honey coloured horse standing beside Forky, nickering away at his neck as he snuffled into this horses neck affectionately.

"What's that horses name?" I asked tentatively. Esme glanced over at Forky and the other horse and smiled.

"Ah, that's our Ginger," She chuckled. "We've had her for about three years since our old horse, Gemma, passed away," She smiled sadly, clearly holding love for this Gemma. "But, Ginger's a fantastic horse and a good friend. Edward tells me that Forky is the reason you met?"

"Yeah, I went over to see Forky and...me and Edward hit off," I nodded with a nervous smile.

"I want to know more about you Bella, you have me intrigued," She chuckled and looked at me, grinning just like her son.

"Well, I was born in Forks and grew up there for a short time. My father died when I was three so my mother had to raise me alone. She did her best, but she has Schizophrenia you see, so eventually when I was old enough I paid for her to go to a Mental Hospital in Seattle out of my small wages I earned from working as a waitress," I remembered sadly. Esme gave me a sympathetic look and grimaced.

"So, you looked after yourself really?" She guessed and I nodded.

"Mom never really wanted anything to do with me. She fed me, clothed me and gave me the basics but everything else I had to find or work out on my own," I rocked in the chair gently, reminiscing on my past. I didn't know why, but pouring my life story out to this woman felt so right.

"I know the feeling of being unwanted," She frowned in sorrow. "I'm assuming Edward has told you about me?"

"Yes, I'm so sorry for what your father did," I gazed at her with sympathy.

"Oh, don't worry about me. It was a long time ago now and I can't even remember half of it," She waved it off and continued rapidly stitching away, the sky blue wool forming a sort of lumpy looking shape. "Besides, I loved my foster mother and father far more than my own. I didn't ever know my mother, nor do I remember my real father," She laughed darkly.

The breeze in the air turned icy as her face became like stone and I sat quietly, waiting for it to pass. I heard the soft murmur of Edward's voice drifting through the air, but couldn't decipher what he was saying.

"Anyway, where do you live now?" Esme brought me out of my thoughts, her warm smile back in place.

"Well, I live in Port Angeles but…I kind of stay in the trailer with Edward at the moment," I mumbled and blushed. Esme chuckled knowingly.

"Ah, I see," She grinned as her fingers blurred in their work as the needles clicked repetitively.

"Do you work?" She inquired.

"I used to…I don't know if will continue when I go back to Port Angeles...I might live with Edward if he wants me to. Did Edward tell you why I'm with him?" I asked, thinking about Angela and my flat in Port Angeles. I would need to sort out those things soon. My holiday was supposed to end yesterday,

"Yes. He told me everything. I'm so sorry dear," She said in a sorrowful voice. "I do hope your friends are okay. It's tragic what happened," She shook her head and her fingers slowed. "Edward said it was terrorists that caused all the ruckus," She added, frowning. "Terrible what some people these days do for publicity," She tutted, shaking her head, her hair shaking back and forth. I frowned too.

"Edward never told me," I mumbled. Terrorists? Oh lord Jesus!

"He just wanted you not to worry - he's been worried sick about you, you know," She murmured with a smile. I returned it and settled back against the wood of the rocking chair again.

It felt good to know first hand from Esme that Edward had mentioned me in his phone call to her. About how he was worried for my safety, about what happened and possibly about the two of us together. I felt almost giddy.

I heard the sound of footsteps and Edward and another man appeared, grinning at each other. Edward had his hands behind his back in a sort of military pose and looked incredibly sexy, his hair all ruffled and his shirt half open.

The other man, who I guessed was Carlisle, turned his gaze to me and I nearly fell off my chair. I could see where Edward got his good looks from. His father had blue, slightly green eyes and short blonde hair combed over to the side.

His mouth was twisted up into the same smirk that Edward had inherited and his white shirt sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, making him look as though he worked a lot.

Esme dropped her knitting into the basket and stood up to stand beside Carlisle.

"Ah, this must be the infamous Bella," Carlisle chuckled and smiled directly at me. I stood up on shaky legs and made my way over to the family, blushing furiously and concentrating on not tripping over my own feet.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Bella, I'm Carlisle," He said softly and stuck his hand out for me to shake. I took it and he shook it firmly before wrapping an arm around Esme. She leaned in to him and gazed up at him with clear love and devotion.

Edward rolled his eyes and came to stand beside me, saving me from this slightly unnerving situation. Carlisle was a lot more intimidating than Esme.

"Alright, enough interrogating on my girl," Edward huffed and wrapped his arm around me, mirroring Carlisle's posture with Esme. Esme made a sound that sounded like a sob and a choke at the same time as Edward pulled me closer and pressed a kiss into my hair.

"Shall we go inside?" Carlisle smiled warmly and led his wife towards the steps. Edward rolled his eyes at me and grinned.

"I'm sorry, he's always authoritive," He murmured reassuringly. "He told me inside that he was extremely happy that I've found you and he welcomes you, I promise," He smiled and led me towards his parent's trailer where a delicious smell was emitting.

We walked inside and I discovered it was much the same as Edward's cart. The seats, the fireplace and stove, the bed and even the pictures were all in the same place and very similar. There was a silk curtain drawn over in front of the bed, shielding it from prying eyes and I respected that.

It was a sanctuary though, and I felt more at ease. Carlisle sat in the seat near the bed and watched fondly as Esme knelt on the floor, dishing up roast beef with mashed potatoes and carrots. It smelled enticing and my mouth watered.

Edward sat me down beside him on the seat near the stove which was larger than the others and well worn, the blue fabric soft and firm.

"Ladies first," Esme warned as Edward licked his lips as she offered me the steaming porcelain plate adorned with painted bluebells and I smiled.

"Thank you, it looks great," I inhaled the scent of gravy gratefully and Esme beamed. Carlisle chuckled as Edward eyed my plate hungrily, and I rolled my eyes.

"Want some?" I offered him a forkful of potato and his face lit up. He took it into his mouth, moaning softly and Esme swatted him over the head with her dishcloth.

"Shame on you! Making Bella feel bad because your hungry! I raised you better than that young man," She scolded as Carlisle struggled to smother a laugh.

"Ouch Mom," Edward grumbled with embarrassment, rubbing the back of his head as Esme turned to a chortling Carlisle who was sitting with his arms behind his neck, a picture of ease, chuckling away.

Esme placed her hands on her hips, her dish-cloth weapon dangling from her fingers.

"You too mister," She wagged her finger at Carlisle, "you will both end up with zilch if you don't compose yourselves," She directed at Carlisle but smiled fondly. Carlisle saluted when she turned her back and I almost choked on my mouthful of roast beef.

He grinned at me and winked. I cracked a small smile and continued eating. Edward finally got his plate, digging in immediately and moaning. Esme gave him a stern look but said nothing. I loved how Esme fussed over her boys, tutting at their every silly gesture and remark but you could see the love in her eyes. I hoped I would one day do the same.

Dinner was quiet and peaceful, only a few murmurs and moans of appreciation of Esme's cooking. It truly was delicious. As I pushed the last gravy morsel into my mouth and looked down at my empty plate, I felt fuller and happier than I had done in a long time.

Edward and Carlisle had already finished three helpings which Esme happily served out, but asked if I wanted any. I declined, feeling fit to burst as it was.

"So Bella, Edward tells me you met at Newheat?" Carlisle piped up after wiping his mouth on his arm, which Esme smacked him lightly for, handing him a napkin.

"Yeah, it was pretty eventful. I think I've been put off festivals forever more, with the exception of meeting Edward," I smiled and huffed good heartedly. Carlisle nodded.

"I hope you find your friends again," He said sincerely, "It must have been traumatic losing everything at once," He implied, a sad look coming into his oceanic eyes. I bit my lip and nodded once, Edward's arm curling protectively around my waist.

"Dad," He beseeched quietly, pulling me close to him. I leaned against him.

"No, it's okay," I murmured, wiping my eyes to rid the moisture away from them.

"Well, your more than welcome into our family Bella. I've heard a lot about your past from Edward and it doesn't sound like peaches and cream," Carlisle grimaced as Esme cleared the plates away silently.

"I've gotten through," I smiled weakly, sitting up straighter again as Edward looked at me through worried, mossy green eyes. I gave him an 'I'm okay' look and squeezed his hand that had snaked into mine.

"What do you think about becoming a Gypsy?" Carlisle grinned and sat up to retrieve something from the mantel beside him.

"I think it's great, I really like living in the trailer - it's cosy," I surmised, glancing at Edward to see him smirking.

"I'm sure it is," Carlisle chuckled. "Here," He held out a small, velvet tie-pouch to me, "Just something to welcome you with. A present if you will," He smiled as Edward took the pouch and handed it to me with confusion written all over his face. I guess he didn't see this one coming either.

I fingered it for a moment, feeling all the eyes in the small space upon me and my cheeks tinged red. I undid the strings and peered inside, gasping as I pulled out a little gold chain with a circular pendant on the end.

The little circle was the size of button with different shades of green running through it. It instantly reminded me of Edward's eyes and I let out a quiet sob.

"Thank you, it's beautiful," I whispered, fingering the chain gently, afraid of breaking it.

"It's from both of us," Esme chipped in, settling herself beside Carlisle and smiling softly when Edward placed it round my neck.

"It's amazing, I really appreciate it. You didn't have to get me anything," I murmured, feeling the smooth stone with my finger, enjoying the soft, firmness of it. It felt sort of like Edward's body. Soft, but firm.

Gah, he was in my every thought!

Carlisle waved me off. "Oh your arse, we didn't spend a penny," He chuckled. "It was my mother's," He said in a softer tone and I gasped.

"But…I can't..-"

"You will accept it, because I want you to have it," He gazed at me with love in his eyes and I softened. "You're part of this family now Bella, you've made my son so incredibly happy. I've never seen him this buoyant in all his adult life," He glanced at Edward who was smirking at me while I blushed.

"I…thank you, all of you," I choked out, "You've made my life so much better," I sniffled as Edward cradled my head with his hand, stroking my hair. Esme stood and came over to me, wrapping her arms around me and holding me close to her, letting me inhale her motherly perfume.

I bit my lip to stifle my sobs as Esme soothed me, stroking my hair in a motherly fashion as Edward and Carlisle looked on in sympathy. I felt so stupid, so small, so weak and I just wanted to slip through a crack in the floor.

I'm…sorry," I gulped, as Esme produced a clean handkerchief and wiped my eyes with it tenderly.

"It's perfectly okay darling, I understand - we all do," She soothed, cupping my face with her soft, worn hands. "My sweet girl, please don't cry," She whispered and kissed my forehead as I tried to regain composure.

"I feel so stupid," I mumbled.

"Not at all Bella, you've had a rough time," Carlisle interjected with a small, comforting smile. "I don't want my new daughter to feel upset," He said quietly, standing to crouch in front of me as Esme stepped back and Edward's arms snaked around me, his lips pressing a soft kiss to my temple.

Carlisle took on of my hands and flipped it over, inspecting my palm."Hmm…looks like there is happier times ahead for you, even if you've had a rocky start," He murmured and looked up at me.

"Did you just read my palm?" I questioned, intrigued.

He chuckled. "You could say that - isn't it traditional for people like us to carry those traits?"

"I suppose," I murmured. "Thank you, for everything," I breathed, looking between both Carlisle and Esme, opening and closing my palm to relish the feeling of Carlisle's warm hands that had been tracing the skin only moments ago. Edward truly did get his charm from his father.

"Anything for our new sweet daughter," Esme smiled warmly and stroked my cheek with the backs of her fingers, her wedding rings soothing the skin. They truly did want me, even Carlisle.

I fingered my pendant and Carlisle beamed, pleased that I liked it. It was getting later now, I guessed it was about four in the afternoon as we had been travelling all day.

"I think me and Bella will retire now," Edward announced with a sheepish grin, holding me flush against him in an adorable show of affection.

"Hmm, behave yourself young man! That's my daughter you are manhandling," Esme scolded, her eyes narrowing at Edward. He looked slightly frightened and bowed his head.

"Yes Mom," He mumbled obediently as Carlisle wrapped his arm around Esme.

"If there's going to be any funny business, just be gentle Edward," He glared. "Bella needs comfort, not a bruising," He directed at Edward. I blushed furiously and Edward grumbled.

"Dad!" He exclaimed, embarrassed. "I'm not like that," He mumbled. "You raised me better than that,"

"I know, but some Gypsy men can lose their inhibition whilst…involved," Carlisle smirked as Esme rolled her eyes. "Their predatory, possessive instincts take over and control is difficult, just like it is for any man," He continued, smirking just as widely as before.

Edward rolled his eyes as I hid my face in his shoulder, stifling a chuckle. I could feel the awkwardness rolling off Edward as he took a couple of deep breaths.

"Stop embarrassing me!" He glared at his dad, his fists clenching. "I'm not going to hurt Bella, I'm not rough with her because I treasure her," He gritted out as I smiled, even though he couldn't see.

"We know. Your father is just teasing," Esme chuckled, directing a pointed look at Carlisle who cleared his throat amusedly.

"I'm only joking son, I know you'll look after her," He smiled at me and I returned it.

"Jesus, this is like some sort of…Embarrass Edward Evening," Edward mumbled under his breath as we stood up. Carlisle patted him on the back and Edward huffed.

"See you tomorrow," Edward smiled as he embraced Esme. She gave me a smile while he was hugging her and winked. I flushed again and Carlisle laughed.

"Goodbye," I said quietly as we turned to go. Esme was having none of it. She also pulled me into a bone crushing hug.

"Goodnight sweet girl, I love you," She murmured, stroking my back as I leaned against her slightly, breathing in her perfume again. She loved me?

"Thank you, I…I love you too," I whispered, tears threatening to spill over.

"My daughter," Esme sighed and stroked my cheek lovingly. Carlisle stepped in and drew me closer to him in a gentle hold as if he was afraid of breaking me.

"Sweet dreams Bella, welcome to our family," He whispered softly and I bit my lip, feeling glad I was accepted by this…alpha male of sorts.

"Goodnight," I squeaked as he kissed my forehead. He smiled again, his blonde hair slightly mussed. I stumbled back into Edward's waiting arms and he chuckled low in my ear.

"Let's go," He whispered as Esme and Carlisle looked on fondly.

"Don't let him rough you up too much Bella! You know how Gypsy men are!" Esme called as we descended the steps. She squealed suddenly and her calls were cut off and replaced with giggling. I assumed Carlisle had taught Edward the art of tickle-torture.

"Mom!" Edward shouted back, exasperated and shook his head. "Ugh, parents," He mumbled, leading me towards our trailer. "I'm so sorry about the interrogation and the…embarrassment and…them," He apologized profusely. I laughed as he lifted me up the steps and cupped his cheek.

"Not at all, they were wonderful and…I really enjoyed myself, even if they were a little…brazen towards the end," I giggled as Edward rolled his eyes.

"Brazen? I've never seen them act like that in all my life! They must really like you," He pointed out with an amused smirk.

"Hmm," I murmured and kissed him gently. "Esme is so nice, and she's a great cook," I sighed, wanting to be half as beautiful and as brilliant as her when I got to her age.

Edward chuckled and led me towards our bed, handing me my night clothes.

"Not that you will need them," He winked and I swooned, flopping back against the pillows.

"Oh really Mr. Cullen?" I retorted, jutting my chin up to face him from my place on the bed. He smirked and grabbed his night sweats.

"You better be prepared for a long night," He said lowly and disappeared out the door to ready Forky for the night. I sighed and lay there for a few seconds, deliberating something.

I smiled widely as hopped off the bed, ridding myself of my shoes and peeling off my clothes, one by one. I left my new pendant around my neck, loving the feeling of it resting against my collarbone.

I tucked my nightwear under the bed and lay down on the bed, stark naked. I smirked as I heard Edward coming back up the steps, oblivious to what he would find.

"Bella I..-" He stopped short, nearly choking on air. His fiery gaze landed on me and I gulped a little, tempted to cover myself up, but he moved towards me at lightening speed, growling.

"You little minx, how dare you tease me," He snarled deliciously into my ear, causing me to shiver. "You are going to pay dearly for this little parade my sweet," He chuckled darkly as I whimpered in anticipation as his hands swept over my bare breasts.

His bronze hair tickled my chin as he leaned down to nip at my breast, rolling his fingers over the other one. I moaned and arched upwards, pushing them further into his mouth.

"Oh God!" I nearly yelled. Edward silenced me with a long, rough kiss to my lips and when he pulled back, my lips were a swollen, tingling mess.

"Please," I whimpered with want.

Edward chuckled, "What do you need? Tell me," He teased as he let his fingers trail down to my folds and part them swiftly.

"I…I need you," I cried, bucking my hips upwards in hope he would give me something, anything to quell the ache building low in my abdomen.

"Ah ah, you need to be more specific," He smirked. I panted as he traced my labia and almost, almost touched my clit. I nearly shouted in exasperation as his movements stopped.

"I…can't I…I just want you…all of you!" I gasped, pulling him down on my mouth again. Anything to extinguish the fire blazing in my belly.

The passion seared through my veins, burning it's way into my bloodstream as he clamped his mouth down on me, parting my lips with his tongue and winding his fingers into my hair.

He pulled back gasping and gazed down at me with lust, passion and love.

"I want you Bella, fuck you have no idea, but are you sure? I don't want to hurt you…," He murmured a little softer. I softened and brought my hands up, trailing them over his perfect stomach, up to his neck and up to cup his face.

"Edward, I want to be yours, all yours. I want you to take me first, not anyone else. Take me Edward, I'm all yours," I beseeched in a whisper. He snapped then, snarling as he pulled me closer to him, crushing me against his chest and holding me there as I sighed in pleasure. He cradled me, gently, but roughly at the same time.

"Your mine," He growled, nipping at my ear lobe. I went limp against him and felt him smirk.

"Yours," I murmured weakly, melting into his embrace. He laughed a low sound into my ear and laid me back against the pillows and I gazed up at him with glazed eyes.

I tilted my head while I pondered something, something that made my stomach knot and twist in a pleasurable fashion. Edward saw my expression and frowned.

"What is it love?" He murmured, crawling over me and depositing his weight onto his arms.

"Shh, I'm having an epiphany," I held up one finger to his lips and he cracked a smile.

"What would that be?" He leaned down to lick round the shell of my ear, distracting me. I shook my head, gathering my thoughts. I needed to tell him now. It was now or never, before we made love for the first time, before I gave myself completely to the man who had stolen my heart and soul.

"I…I love you," I whispered in disbelief. "I love you!" I said a bit louder, my heart rejoicing to be rid of the weight I hadn't even known was there all along. It had just wanted someone, a man no less, to love.

"Bella?" Edward murmured. I bit my lip as a single tear slid down my cheek and splashed onto the pillow behind me.

"I love you," I cried. "I love you so much," I gasped, grasping his neck and sobbing into his shoulder. His warm arms encircled my naked body, holding me flush against his soft, firm chest.

"Is it true? You truly love me?" He whispered, gently pushing my hair away from my ear to kiss my temple.

"Yes!" I sobbed. "I love you, I need you, I promise…don't ever…leave me," I hiccupped, crying into his warm, comforting embrace as he held me, cradling my shaking form and stroking my hair.

"My Bella, my beautiful Isabella," He murmured sweetly, kissing my forehead. "I love you too - more than you will ever know. You mean more to me than anything else and…I want to start my life with you, beginning with tonight," He whispered lovingly, smiling sadly, wiping my tears away with soft fingers.

"You do? You really, truly, absolutely want me forever? Because I don't think I could ever handle watching you walk away," My voice cracked as I traced his strong jaw bone.

"Forever," He promised, cutting my further thoughts off with a kiss and roaming his hands up and down my thighs.

"God Bella," He panted. "Let me make love to you? Please," He begged, his voice cracking with emotion and I giggled.

"Have your way with me Edward, I'm all yours," I smiled wanly and kissed him again.

"You have no idea what I will do to you," He snarled, grabbing my hips possessively.

I gulped and whimpered as he slid down my body, kissing a trail of searing hot kisses down my stomach, right down to my pussy.

"Oh…Oh God," I moaned, fisting the sheets in both hands as I closed my eyes. Now I knew what Carlisle had meant about possessiveness and predatory actions. Edward was in full-on caveman mode and clearly wanted to mark me as his. He sucked at the soft flesh of my inner thighs and left little purple blotches here and there but I was too weak to move or care about that right now.

My side was still stitched up so he was careful to avoid doing me further damage.

"You are going to beg me, beg me to lick and suck at every inch of your perfect, sweet pink pussy," He growled, opening my folds and inhaling the scent of my arousal.

"Please! Edward, please…touch me, lick me…anything!" I nearly screamed with want, writing deliriously and panting for air.

He chuckled, low and dark. "Oh sweet Bella, how can I resist your little cries of wanton lust? Maybe I'll have mercy and lick and tease you to completion and then fuck your pretty little pussy softly and slowly, making you mine forever," He whispered, trailing a single finger around the flesh of my clit.

"Oh yes, yes! Please, I want you, all of you, right now!" I whimpered, fisting his hair between my fingers and licking my lips to wet them. With that, Edward leaned down, his tongue slipping between my folds and lapping over my opening, my juices running like a river.

"More! Please!" I moaned, pushing my pussy into his face. He hummed and pressed his lips over my clit, suckling and licking for all he was worth. I made a low keening sound in the back of my throat and shivered, my orgasm building profusely.

"Such a beautiful pussy, so wet, so responsive," He crooned, sliding a finger into my opening and causing me to groan loudly, biting my lip to stop a scream escaping.

"That's it my Bella, I want to hear every sweet sound that comes out of your pretty mouth," He whispered seductively and slid another finger into my pussy, a small scream managing to slip past my lips. My hair was ruffled along the pillow, my skin flushed and I felt so absolutely cherished.

"Yes, yes!" I moaned and rocked my hips to speed up my release. I came a few minutes later, clamping down like a vice onto Edward's fingers.

"Jesus you are tight. So tight," He smirked as he continued rubbing my g-spot as I came down from my mile-high…high?

"Ohhh God," I shuddered, clinging to him and smiling softly. He crawled back up my body and kissed me gently.

"Before we get on to more…complex issues," He smirked. "I just want to hold you, just to let you calm down and then I will work some more magic on your innocent, vulnerable body," He cooed, shifting into a sitting position against the headboard and pulling me into his lap so that my back was against his chest and his arms encircling me, fondling my breasts as I rested my head back against his shoulder.

"Thank you," I whispered, placing my hands over his thighs were they nestled me between his legs. His sweats were still in place, but I could feel his erection pushing at the skin of my lower back.

"Anything for you," He murmured into my ear as the oil lamp dimmed and a gentle, warm breeze blew out across my neck as Edward placed soft, gentle kisses along my neck, making me roll my head to the side, my eyes closing.

"I love you Bella, now and forever," He kissed my temple and I sighed contentedly. "I just have one question before I make love to you," He pulled my face round to look at him and I gave him a questioning look.

"Bella," He whispered. "Marry me?"

What?!


End Notes - BWAHAHA! I'm leaving it there just to keep you all on edge! But you know what that means? The next chapter will begin with a lemon! Woot woot!

Thank you all for reading, this story is a blast to write! Sorry it took so long, but I wanted to make this chapter loonnggggg and I'm not good at long chappy's. I think I ramble too much in the middle? Yes? No? Anywhoo, more soon!

I found a fantastic guy on YouTube called Marcus Butler. If you haven't watched him, you need to. He makes you laugh 'til you fall down, I'm telling you. He gets everything to the point and makes it so hysterically hilarious! Annnnnnnd there I go again with the rambling…

Any thoughts?