A/N: Thank you brodeurgirl30 for Beta'ing! And, Happy early Birthday! Thanks also goes out to my readers, and those who review. It is greatly appreciated.

…..

Chapter 3: I thought about the events that had taken place over the past couple of days. I had my first sexual encounter as an escort. In order to do so, I had envisioned being with another man. I was treating my best friends with disrespect due to my lies. Alice may have found love at first sight which resulted in my jealousy - could I find my true love? Or had I already, but just didn't know it, yet?

…..

It's been nearly a week and I hadn't heard from Jane. After my encounter with Jacob, I questioned my ability to proceed further in this career. The night with him really was a wake up call. And while it wasn't intercourse with the guy, I still questioned if I could follow through with the act. Sure, it was just a blow job. But, it was a blow job I performed on a complete stranger. There was no emotional satisfaction on my end of the spectrum. He, on the other hand, received nothing but pleasure. Pure gratification at my hands and mouth. I felt dirty, like the low man on the totem pole. I felt like I degraded myself. I was trashy scum of the earth material.

What guy would ever want me knowing what I have done in my past... and possibly will do in the near future?

I wondered if he had called Jane and informed her of what a slut I was. I could only imagine the colorful words he could use to describe me. Trailer-white-trash. Hooker. Floozy. Call-girl. Ultimately, I was Izzy... the whore.

But, in reality, I didn't classify myself as anything like that. To me, I was sweet, innocent Bella. To me, I couldn't see past being a college student. To me, I just didn't see myself becoming an escort.

But, I need the money.

While having my internal debate, there was a knock on the door, then the doorknob turned. Rosalie, holding a bottle of Layer Cake Malbec, came barging in the room.

"Where's Alice?" she asked.

"Where do you think?"

"With that Jasper dude, again?" I nodded, confirming her thoughts. "Wow, she fell head over heels for him, and quick. It seems like yesterday when I had to cut her off because she was complaining about being single. And here she is, not even a week later, the only one of the three of us with a guy."

If only I had a guy, with lots of money, I might be able to get out of my current situation.

She was very unladylike as she plopped down on our futon. I realized that half the bottle of wine had already been consumed.

"Rose, uhm, are you drunk?"

"Drunk, me? Hell no. Want some?"

Right, you're not fooling me.

I watched as she took another swig straight from it then offered me the bottle.

"Uhm, ok, I'll have a sip." There was something off about her. "Rose, are you alright?" She wasn't depressed, upset, happy, or even sad. But, there was a look of determination about her, as if she had one thing, and one thing only on her mind.

"Yes. Listen. I need to go to the store. Want to join me?"

I couldn't figure out what was going on in Rosalie's mind. But, it wouldn't be long before I found out her intentions and what she needed to purchase. Just then Alice came be-bopping into the room.

"You two look like you are up to no good."

"Well, we aren't," I said, only half-joking, not realizing how true the statement would become.

Rosalie just looked at me, then said, "I need a vibrator, we are going to the naughty store, want to come?" She had a dead-serious expression. No humor, no reservations, all truth and she didn't mind letting it be known exactly what she needed.

"Oh god, Rose," I screeched, "That is way too much information. I do not need to know about your sexcapades."

But, it was as if the escort-sex gods were looking after me. And I couldn't fathom if it was a good thing or not. It would have been a good thing because the gods were saying, yes, this escort job is the career for you at this time. And it was a bad thing because I still wasn't entirely sold on this career.

"Bella, look, I am tired of getting off with just my hands and since I don't have a boyfriend, I am willing to experiment. Now, do you want to join me and go shopping, or not?"

And that was when I thought about this being a great diversion to my need of having a bag of treats. Rosalie just gave me the perfect opportunity to get a real taste of the items that could be in my bag. And, I could continue to act like I was repulsed by her idea, while at the same time, becoming a willing participant of this excursion.

Escort-sex gods, great.

"I'll drive," Alice interjected as I confirmed my willingness to be adventurous.

Rosalie took another swig from the wine bottle, offering me a taste, again. "Alice, you can not have any because you are driving, but we will save you some for when we return." She winked, while taking the bottle from me. I knew at the rate she was going, I would hardly get another sip, so there was no way in hell that Alice would be saved a sip. "By the way, what are you doing here? Why aren't you with that Jasper dude?"

"Oh, I am going to meet him at his place later. He had to go deal with a family situation."

"Must be pretty serious if you aren't with him," I said, while holding my hand out for the bottle.

"Yeah, it has something to do with his brother. In his words, they needed some bonding time. And, lucky me, I get to bond with my best girlfriends!" She seemed concerned over her boyfriend's family, yet was very excited to spend time with us.

We all grabbed our things and made our way to Alice's car. Once inside, Alice screamed, "Oooh, I know the perfect song for this trip, I've got to find it!" She bounced up and down, as best she could while sitting in the driver's side of the car. She reached down to the floorboard of the passenger side of the car and picked up her CD case and pulled out a CD she had burned.

Once the initial beat started to play, Rosalie and I joined in her bopping around dancing in the car. When Cyndi Lauper started singing, the three of us joined in as well, screaming and laughing at the top of our lungs.

I come home in the morning light

My mother says when you gonna live your life right

Oh mother dear we're not the fortunate ones

And girls they want to have fun

Oh girls just want to have fun

The remainder of the ride was spent singing this song, over and over again. Each time, we were louder and louder with our singing, causing us to laugh when one of us made a funny gesture with our arms.

Our singing didn't stop until the car was parked and the ignition turned off. We all stepped out of the car and made our way to 'Fantasy Dreams,' a sex store that is located next to a strip club. I looked at the club's entrance and noticed a group of guys walking towards the door. I wondered if they had ever been to Aro's club. I wondered if they had ever tried an escort. I even wondered if they had ever seen Tanya perform.

Lucky for me, this is not Aro's strip club. At least I won't see him, or Tanya.

As the door to the specialty shop opened, a little bell rang, signaling to the clerk that patrons were entering the establishment. The three of us slowly entered as we were all a bit overwhelmed. None of us had ever been to a place like this.

Once inside, to the left appeared to be the wedding corner. Anything and everything relating to bachelorette parties, bachelor parties, and honeymooners' dreams were located there.

Note to self, come here for party supplies when one of the girls gets married.

Further into the store was a section of DVD's - porn. I noticed a scruffy looking middle-aged man reading the back of one.

Gross.

Throughout the store, there were all kinds of toys, lube, and vibrators of different sizes and colors. We approached the back of the store where they had various sexy costumes, lingerie, and shoes. I reached down, picking up a pair of 6 inch clear platform stilettos. The heel looked like a dagger and I couldn't figure out how anyone could walk around wearing them.

As I was putting them back down, Alice joked, "Thinking about getting them for your job, hooka'?"

Job? She knows? Shit!

I could feel the blood rushing to my head in embarrassment for finally being exposed.

"Bella, I'm only kidding. Lighten up and have fun exploring your sexual side."

Kidding, right. At least she still doesn't know about my job.

I quickly left the shoes and began exploring the store on my own. The bag of treats needed to contain various kinds of toys, but, having never bought one before, I had no idea what to purchase. I noticed Rosalie perusing the vibrator section, so I casually followed her lead and joined her.

As I approached her, I noticed a clerk walking towards us. "Ladies, need any help?" she asked.

"Yes, I am in the market for one of these," Rosalie pointed to the vibrator section.

"Ah, yes," she said. "Have you ever purchased a vibrator before?"

I think I just turned 5 shades of red. The lady never flinched when she said vibrator. But, here I was, standing with one of my best friends, listening to a perfect stranger discuss vibrators, a very intimate object.

"No."

"Well, then. Buying a vibrator is a lot like buying a car. They are all different and they have many bells and whistles. Do you know what you want it to accomplish?"

The lady was serious when she asked this question, but my guess was that Rosalie's interpretation was not correct when she questioned, "Uhm, an orgasm?"

"Yes, I should have been more specific. Do you have any idea what you want the vibrator to do? They can have assorted textures, colors, sizes. Some look specifically like vibrators, others look a little more discreet and are personal massagers. Those are good if you are living with your parents and are afraid they may snoop. They also come with a multitude of attachments and you can use an excuse of massaging a sore muscle, for instance." I watched as Rosalie nodded her head, understanding. I nodded as well, because it made perfect sense.

What happened to Alice?

The sales lady showed us all kinds of vibrators and encouraged Rosalie to purchase any one of the clit massagers, "because they are not as daunting as some of our other vibrators," she had said as one option. "Or, the Blue Dolphin Vibrator because it's inexpensive, waterproof, a beginner-friendly size, and is very easy to use."

Rosalie enjoyed the characteristics about the Blue Dolphin, opting it over the clit massager for purchase.

The saleslady then looked at me and asked, "And, now that your friend has her toy, what can I help you find today?"

I saw another opportunity. She asked me, so I thought I would work this to my advantage. "Well, like Rosalie, I don't have much experience with toys. What do you recommend for an adventurous beginner?"

"Hmm, adventurous? and a beginner? Well, that's a good question." She pondered her response as I caught a glimpse of Rosalie looking at me. I could only imagine what she was thinking. The lady continued, "Adventurous, as in, by one's self? Or Adventurous with a partner?"

Shit!

"Uhm, well, I am single now, so what would you recommend for just me. And, would your recommendation be something that could be used with a partner once one decides to join me?"

"Oh, sure. I will give you recommendations that could be used as an individual or with partners."

Yes, saleslady, I picked up your hint of more than one partner. And, no, I am no where near ready to have a orgy, thank you very much.

"Ok, so we will stay away from bondage and whips because those typically require a willing participant. You've seen the vibrators. We have all kinds of lubes, outfits, and … "

I stopped listening. Instead, I was beginning to feel very uncomfortable. I wasn't sure if I was going to proceed with the escort job, so having a bag of treats may or may not be a necessity. And, I didn't want to put too much money into a purchase. Sure, if I pursued this career, I could always come back, without my friends, to ask detailed questions on various products. But, knowing that my friends are here, watching my every move, I wanted to prevent any kind of questions that they could throw in my direction. To do that, asking for a product in which I could be adventurous by myself or with partners was not the best idea.

The saleslady began to walk to another aisle, but I stopped her, "Actually, since this is all new to me, I kind of like what we learned about the Blue Dolphin. I think that will work just fine for me, as long as my friend doesn't mind us having matching toys."

The saleslady responded, "Suit yourself," while Rosalie said, "Of course I don't mind."

Once the saleslady had walked away, Alice walked up to us with a big grin on her face.

"What has you all tickled pink?" Rosalie asked.

"I just saw the funniest porn titled movie."

"Is that where you've been?" I asked.

"Yes, they have all kinds of videos. But the one that had me laughing was Twilight of Virginity."

And with that, the three of us made our way to the register, purchasing various items. Rosalie had her Blue Dolphin, but it looked like she tried to discretely slip something else on the counter. I couldn't see what it was.

Alice bought herself a clit massager and a movie, "Jasper mentioned this movie, so I thought I would surprise him with it."

I didn't ask, but why would they be speaking about porn so early in their relationship. It just proved to me how much in love those two were.

When it was my turn, I just bought the vibrator. The saleslady tried to get me to purchase condoms, candy, and various other items on display near the register. I declined each one of her requests.

We left the store, climbed into the car, and made our way back to the dorm.

"Bella, I won't be there tonight, so you can certainly experiment all you want," Alice looked at me in the rear view mirror and winked.

"Ha ha, I just might do that!"

The ride back was a little sobering. I was contemplating my purchase. Could I really go through with using it while in the presence of a complete stranger? Could I even use it on myself, without anyone's help? And, in all reality, Alice was probably right. I should experiment with it tonight. That way I could calm any feelings about this object before I actually have to use it.

"I know we just had an impromptu girls night, but when can we have another one to go out for dinner?" Alice asked.

It wasn't very often that the three of us were able to hang out, especially with Alice's recent love interest. I thought about how over a few short months, the three of us had become the best of friends, which reminds me of how I officially met 'blondie'.

…..

After our parents had dropped us off at the start of the school year, then left to return home, Alice and I began the task of getting to know the real us. As in, the ones without the parents around. She helped me unpack while we played the game of questions.

"Do you have a boyfriend?" she asked me.

"No, I broke up with one before I came to college. You?"

"Nah. My high school sweetheart and I ended it a week after prom. I am over him now, ready to meet real men. Do you drink?"

"No, I've only stolen the occasional sip from my parents when they weren't looking. Pathetic, right?" I said.

"Of course not. I haven't had too much to drink, but being away from my parents, I am sure I will be able to drink more. Do you know anyone else on campus?"

"Your the first, besides the Resident Advisor who gave me my key to our room."

"Cool. Well, not cool. What I meant was, want to get dinner with me in a bit?" I agreed. "And, if you don't mind, a girl from down the hall is going to join us. Her name is Rosalie. I'm supposed to get her when I leave for the cafeteria."

A little while later, after most of my belongings were unpacked, we made our way down the hall to Rosalie's room. Alice knocked, while I stood back leaning against the opposite wall.

The door opened, and out walked the bitch from earlier.

Shit!

She looked like she had been crying, but had herself pulled together enough for me to second guess. "Hi, I'm Rosalie."

"Uhm, I'm Bella."

The walk to the cafeteria was filled with Alice's voice talking about anything and everything.

Does that girl ever take a moment to breathe?

During dinner, Alice was quiet long enough for Rosalie to share her story about how she finally gave up her virginity to her high school sweetheart thinking that they would be the couple to actually 'make it'. Little did she know that over the summer, while her family vacationed, her boyfriend was getting to know her best friend in ways meant for lovers. She found out about it while on the drive to college via text message.

"I'm sorry if I come across as a bit of a bitch, right now. I am just comprehending a lot of life altering information," she said to us.

"Aww, honey, it's ok! You don't need him, and you certainly don't need that best friend of yours. Think of us as your new best friends, right Bella?"

"Uh, sure." I hardly know the girls, and my new roommate is classifying me and this crazy psycho as her best friends.

Great. My college experience is getting off to a great start.

Little did I know, the three of us would quickly become inseparable.

…..

"Earth to Bella!" Rosalie said.

"What?"

"We're here." I realized that while reminiscing about how we met, I lost sense of time, not even noticing that Alice had parked the car in our dormitory parking lot.

"So, tomorrow night?" Rosalie asked while looking directly at me. I must have missed them discussing our next girls night.

"Sounds great with me," I agreed.

"Awesome, I'll be back in time for us to go out. Looking forward to it," Alice replied.

Rosalie said goodbye and made her way to her room, while Alice came with me to ours. She grabbed a few items then left to meet up with Jasper. Since I was alone, I looked at the black plastic bag, contemplating whether or not to just do it - to pull the contents out of the bag and test it out.

To pass the time, I put on my comfy pajamas, and got ready for bed. The whole time the bag was just staring at me, calling my name.

Well, I guess there is no time like the present.

I pulled the box out of the bag, opened it, and took out the pieces. I put my robe on so I could hide the contents in the pocket, and quickly made my way to the bathroom to wash them.

Can never be too careful, right?

Once back in the room, I nestled under the covers and began to read the directions. I finally gave up on reading them and just started turning the device on and off checking it out, my hands vibrating with varying degrees of sensation.

I found the setting I liked and let it linger in my hands while contemplating my next action. I touched my breasts sending a sensation through my body, willing me to continue. I touched it in between my bosom, snaking it to my lower region.

Mmm!

The vibrator lingered on the outside. The feeling of excitement coursed through me. I desired for my own orgasmic satisfaction. The tip entered slowly then I pulled it back out, then pushed it in further. The vibration was incredibly intense. While I enjoyed the heat of the moment, I was solely focused on an incredible feeling. At the same time, I wanted to share this moment with someone. As my climax was reached, all I could think about was Edward.

What is it with this guy?

Once I was on my little orgasmic high, all I could think about were the various things I would love to do to, and with, Edward. Kiss his perfect lips, rub my hands all over his body, make sweet love with him.

But I hardly know him!

Once the euphoria faded, I quickly hid the contents of my extra-curricular activity, almost pretending it never happened. I laid back, closing my eyelids, allowing myself to fall asleep.

The next morning was like any other typical Friday. After returning from showering, I noticed I had a missed call. Checking the call log, I discovered it was Jane. I reluctantly returned the call, mainly because I could only imagine that if she was calling now, then my evening plans will most likely be ruined.

"Izzy, good morning!"

"Good morning to you, Jane." I tried to smile and be as happy as I could knowing that a date was looming ahead.

"I'll cut right to the chase. Late last night I had a conversation with a lovely gentleman. He is attending a high profile event this evening and is requesting the presence of a beautiful lady. He didn't have too many specifications, so I thought that you might like to try this type of setting."

"Ok." Girls night was tonight, so I was not too thrilled that I would have to cancel.

"The event begins at 8:00 PM and it will probably be a late night. It's more like a dinner and dance kind of function. Wear an evening gown. And, he didn't seem too concerned about sexual activity so that may or may not be on his agenda. Just use your best judgement and I think the evening will work out just fine."

"Ok, great. Jane? If you don't mind, I have a question."

"Sure, ask me anything."

"Well, I have just noticed that the dates are about a week apart. Is that normal?"

"Izzy, in the beginning, yes. In my experience, I have found that new girls tend to respond better when the escorts are few and far between. It allows you a taste, but usually leaves you wanting more once you realize the income potential. Also, if you choose not to proceed with this career, I haven't wasted valuable men on someone who isn't fully into the job."

"I understand."

She then provided the remaining details of where to meet James and how he would know it was me. She further informed me that she has been impressed with my first two dates and ended with, "I can see you going far with this career." I couldn't decide if that statement was a generic one to make me feel more confident in this escort role, or if she truly felt that I was picking up on things. Either way, my decision had not been made, and my 30 days was nearing completion.

Throughout the rest of the day, I contemplated on what to tell the girls when I saw them this afternoon. I knew they wouldn't be happy about my impromptu date and the fact that it would ruin the girls night. I was actually sweating a bit just thinking about the reaction I would receive.

But, the time had finally come.

It was after 5:00 pm and I was in the room, having just showered again. I couldn't hear anything since I was blow drying my hair straight. With the way my hair fell, I couldn't see the person, but I could tell someone was standing in front of me because of the perfectly pedicured toes.

I stopped the hair drying and looked to see Alice holding up two different shirts and a full smile.

"Which one?" she said.

"Hmmm, that one," I answered, pointing to a pink and furry sweater.

Just then, Rosalie entered the room looking perfect as usual. It was the moment I had been dreading, but it had to be done. The news wasn't going to be received well.

"Uhm, girls. I have a confession to make." They looked at me with concerned eyes.

Here it goes. Pep talk. Think about the money you will make as an escort.

"I know we are leaving in a few minutes for dinner. And, believe me when I say this. I really hate that I must do this, but I have a date tonight. I know. I know. It is supposed to be a girls night. But considering our recent droughts of men, I was hoping you could cut me a little slack?"

I waited. And waited. They both looked between me and the other. No one was saying anything.

Finally, Rosalie said, "Well, shit! At least I will have my vibrator tonight to keep me company while you two girls are with guys."

Alice didn't seem happy nor sad, she just acted indifferent. She said, "Well, if that is what you want, I guess we will have fun up until the time you need to leave."

Nothing more was said, and I was glad for that. We all finished getting ready and met at Alice's car.

On our way to the restaurant, Alice was hesitant to ask, "So, I hope you girls don't mind. I really want you to meet him, and since he is in the area, Jasper is stopping by the restaurant."

I didn't mind. I was kind of curious to meet this guy that has been taking up all of her free time this week. And when we were together, she talked about him non stop. "I can only speak for me, but I am anxious to meet him."

"Yeah, it would be nice to officially meet the guy that I saw you kick in the shin."

Alice squealed with excitement while sending a text to Jasper to let him know of the plans. "You guys are in for a real treat." And then she showed her devious self, as we walked towards the entrance of O'Charley's. "You know, he has a brother."

Rosalie lifted her eyebrows, an effort to show Alice she was intrigued. "And, when do I get to meet him?"

"You? Maybe I thought he might be better suited for Bella." Alice joked. "Jasper just texted to confirm that his brother will be there, too."

Great. I could tell by the way she spoke that Alice truly thought Jasper'sbrother would be better for me. And lucky me, I get to cut out early for a date. Ugh, could my life get any better?

"The night just keeps getting better and better, except for the fact that Bella is going to bail on us. And," she was looking at me, now, "where was it you said you were going?" Rosalie asked.

"Blind date."

Well, it's partly true. It is a date, and I am going into this blind.

"Yeah, and did this Jane chick set you up?" Alice asked, as we were seated at our table, which was soon followed by us placing our order.

"That's right."

Please, no more questions, girls. Pretty please?

Rosalie wanted to know, "And when do we get to meet this Jane?"

"Can we just keep the night with fun, exciting, and memorable topics?"

"I thought that Jane was your friend, and that a blind date was supposed to be fun, exciting, and memorable. No?" Alice questioned.

Shit. Lie. Just lie.

"That's not what I meant. Jane is a friend."

A 'friend' that's my boss.

"And? What's the problem? There is something you aren't telling us."

"Nothings the matter," I said a bit more harshly than was necessary. "I just want you both to be a part of it, fully. You both are my best friends, and I wish that you could join me on the date. And, I know that you can't. Alice, you just met this guy, Jasper, but I already know you are head over heals for him. I want that in a guy. And Rosalie, you exude so much power it's sometimes daunting. I want that kind of confidence, too. You both have qualities that I personally do not have, but crave. My life is a mess, right now, and I am just scared." Tears were forming, my index finger wiped away one that escaped.

It's the truth, even though I didn't answer their question.

Alice took my hand and squeezed it. "It's ok, Bella. We will be with you in spirit. You will have a great time on your date, and we will be waiting when you return to hear all about it."

I nodded.

"And besides," Rosalie voiced, "you might like the guy you meet tonight."

The brother? Or the blind date?

Rosalie, being the other available girl, wanted to know more about Jasper's brother. "So, tell me more about him."

"Well, I don't know too much. I have met him in passing, twice, and let me tell you he is one hot piece of eye candy. I think he is single, but..."

"Single? But you aren't sure?" I watched as Rosalie became disappointed, but a guy being taken hasn't stopped her from pursuing.

"I say single, because he was engaged."

"Was?" Now I was asking the questions, as our dinner plates were served.

"Yeah, well, he was engaged to some girl and they were to get married in a few weeks. According to Jasper, when he should be discussing the upcoming wedding, his mind has been elsewhere. As in, he has been talking about some other girl. It's so bad that Jasper has been trying to work him through it in hopes that he doesn't completely destroy his future with his fiance."

That is somewhat depressing, to know that he was engaged, but is now thinking of ending it over another girl. Why agree to get married if your heart isn't truly in it? And, why allow temptation to take over?

I hope 'the other girl' is worth it for him!

My thoughts must have echoed in Rosalie's mind because she said, "That new girl must be pretty incredible to be contemplating calling off a wedding. Was this the reason for the brotherly bonding last night?"

Alice continued, "Yeah, that's what Jasper was doing last night, helping his brother cope with this unusual situation. But he just doesn't understand him and doesn't comprehend why all of a sudden this mysterious girl is consuming his thoughts and energy. From the sound of it, his brother hardly knows this girl but she is all he has been talking about this past week or so. His fiance, Jessica, is cute, but he just won't stop talking about Izzy."

The night had been progressing quite nicely right up until that moment. The food in my mouth slipped down my throat causing me to choke slightly on it. Hearing my stage name was a bit hard to swallow.

Surely this is just coincidence that my nickname is the same as this so-called wedding crasher.

But I have to ask, "You never did tell us Jaspers' brothers name." Trying to act casual, although my insides were screeching to a halt as I waited for the answer. I forced myself to breath the breath I didn't realize I was holding. Trying to act natural, I took a sip of my coke.

"Oh my, you're right. It's a bit old timey as well, his name is Edward."

The coke in my mouth went spewing across the table and I began to choke again. Luckily, Rose was close to me and began hitting me on the back.

"Jesus Bella, if a guy like Edward does crazy things like this to you just by saying his name, by all means, you can have him," she said. "With all this talk, I hate to see your reaction when he actually shows up."

Lucky for me, we were about to find out. Alice's eyes went from happy to down right ecstatic in a blink of an eye. A moment later, Jasper approached her, hugging her quickly and kissing her cheek, then he sat in the empty seat next to her.

"I thought you said Edward was coming?" Alice asked, but taking a quick glance my way to make sure I was alright with this new development.

"I did, he's at the bar getting us a drink." And in a hushed tone he said, "what I couldn't get across in text was that he is still distraught and lost. He almost didn't come, but I was able to tell him that the best thing for him would be to just get out of their apartment and hang out with me."

"What happened?" Alice wanted to know more, and I did too.

"The moment he tried to talk to Jessica about his apprehension with the wedding, she just downright ended it altogether. I suspect she has already cheated on him in the past, but wanted to make it look like Edward was the bad guy."

Knowing that this guy was perhaps the same guy as my first date, I couldn't help but feel a bit guilty hearing all of this. It seemed as though I was the one who ended his engagement, even though I wasn't technically a willing participant in their relationship.

I glanced over at the crowded bar. There were too many people for me to see the man I know. I assumed that it was all a coincidence - that my nickname was used in conversation with Jasper, that his name is the same as my first date. But coincidence became reality when I saw the hair of a man walking in this direction. Someone was in front of him, so I was unable to see his face, but I knew it was him. There was not a hint of doubt in my mind. I waited for him to notice me, not sure how he would react, and in turn, not sure how I would react to his realization that Izzy was right here in front him.

The only problem is that he knew Izzy, but in this current setting, I was far from that girl. I was Bella. Shy, lonely, single, Bella. I didn't know what to do. Do I hide? That would be problematic since I was there with my friends. Do I immediately introduce myself as Bella? That too would be awkward because I would be drawing attention to myself. I decided the best approach would be to just act natural, and in this case would mean 'not knowing' Edward.

But how do I pretend to not know a guy that I have already been on a date with?

I couldn't think about how to do it. I just had to. And in the words of Aro, I had to act. So as I saw him approach, I did not look at him. It was hard not to gaze upon his beauty. But, to make the night the best it could be for my girls, I felt this approach would be best. Unfortunate for me, or for him depending on how you looked at the situation, I was able to mentally prepare for our meeting. He, on the other hand, was not.

I could tell there was an uncomfortable feeling at the table, so when I sensed his closeness, I slowly gazed up. I could see in my peripheral vision my friends looking from him to me. It was as if they were missing a key piece of information. Edward, however, looked white as a ghost. He was staring me down. It looked as though he was caught in the middle of being happy to see me, confused that I was sitting at a table amongst friends, or angry because I indirectly destroyed his wedding and life.

Which, by the way, is not my fault. He chose to hire an escort, not me.

"Anyone have a steak?" Rosalie asked.

Her statement pulled me from my momentary trance of staring back at Edward. "What?" I was confused, why was she asking about a steak?

"I was only asking because I need a steak knife to cut through the tension in the air." She responded.

Alice, while looking back and forth between Edward and me, said, "Uhm, do you two know each other?"

SHIT! Lie.

That was the first thing that came to my mind, so I said, "No."

There was no possible way that he could know what was currently going through my mind, so while I was lying, he told the truth, "Yes."

Jasper, watching all of this unfold, spoke up next, "Well, which is it? Either you have met before, or you haven't."

I think Jasper has suspicions on my true identity. He just keeps giving me this look.

I watched as Jasper said this, then I looked at Edward, Alice, Rosalie, then finally back at Jasper. With defeated eyes and sad tone, I said, "We have met."

Rose, now curious, "Really? Huh. Bella, how did you meet Edward?"

She is one tough cookie, so I wondered if she was able to put together that I am actually Izzy. But knowing they were all waiting for an answer I was not willing to give, I looked to Edward for help. Something in me told me that, even though the current situation we were in was a mess, I could still rely on him. I pleaded to him with my eyes not to share our little secret. I wasn't ready for the truth to come out.

Lucky for me, he was able to figure it out, and said, "Well, Bella" he subtly questioned, as I nodded to confirm my true name, "and I met recently around town."

Good answer. Not to far from the truth, but the truth is still hidden.

Rosalie, often one step ahead of me, stated directly to me, not caring who heard, "Hmm, by your reaction I was wondering if he was the one you met through that Jane chick."

SHIT. Double shot of SHIT. Oh, hell no.

My eyes immediately darted from Rosalie straight to Edward because I knew exactly where this conversation was headed - a place I didn't want to be. I contemplated just walking away, but that would be a bit obvious.

Why did I have to take that damn job? And, more importantly, why couldn't I just trust my friends enough to tell them what I had done?

Unfortunately for me, I didn't anticipate Edwards reaction. What he did, made me think back to our conversation the night we met.

...

"At the end of the night, I really want you to take a long look at yourself and your friends. I think they might surprise you if you shared with them your idea of a job. This job."

...

His face lit up because he assumed an incorrect thought, that I had shared with my best friends the true identity of Jane. But, he covered up his assumption with a question that piqued the interest of my friends. He said three simple words, "You told them?"

Again, I was beat into pulp as I lowered my head, signalling my defeat, yet again. I calmly replied while glaring at Edward, "No."

Rosalie and Alice were hanging onto every word, and simultaneously asked, "Told us what?"

It's a fair question. But they sure as hell aren't getting the truth right now. Not here. Not in front of Edward, Jasper, and a bunch of strangers eating in this restaurant.

To change the subject off of me, I immediately shoved the dagger into his heart, so to speak. I looked straight to Edward and asked, "You were engaged?" It's a fair question. If he was engaged, why hire an escort? I mean, that's just welcoming the 'break-up gods' to come down and tear him and his fiancй apart.

Now it was his turn to feel as defeated, "Yes, I was."

"Engaged? SERIOUSLY? And yet you felt compelled to go on a date with someone else?" I yelled back at him.

Jasper, even though I had known him for a short while, seemed to have an innate sense to determine when the situation was spiraling out of control. He must have sensed that the evening was headed south, so he tried to bring the tempers down a notch, but still trying to understand what just happened, so he asked, "Everyone just calm down. Let's take a step back. What is really going on here?"

Edward and I looked at each other and yelled frustratingly loud, "NOTHING!"

When Edward and I were done with the staring contest, I noticed Jasper was watching me, trying to figure me out. He said, "Wait a minute, with your name Bella, it must be shortened from Isabella." I didn't need to respond to him, but I watched as the light bulb turned on in his head. "Oh My God. Are you Izzy?"

My friends gasped, it all clicked for them. I didn't know what to say. I was so angry. Mad that Jasper figured it out and verbalizing it in front of my friends. And from our earlier discussion I was able to gather that he didn't know much about me, other than my name.

Needing a release, or maybe it was my heart looking for a way to share the truth, I looked at Edward and said. "That's just great! Why don't you just tell everyone that I'm an escort, too?"

My purse was hanging on the chair. I stood up, while clutching it, and was preparing to walk out the door.

"Wait, where are you going?" Edward now was concerned.

Alice answered for me, "She has a date." I could see the wheels turning in her head.

Rosalie continued, jokingly, "Yeah, apparently we aren't good enough for her so her mysterious friend, Jane, set her up."

Could this get any worse?

At that moment, it must have clicked for my friends. Because, at the same time, Alice and Rosalie said, "What the hell?"

After a moment to process it all, Alice said, "Oh God, please tell me that's not true," while Rosalie exclaimed, "It all makes sense now."

I ignored them.

Alice had finally figured it out, "Bella, I thought you were joking, but it really is true, isn't it?" I just looked at her. I mean, what do I say to that?

Nothing. Just go.

And that is exactly what I did. I left the table, walked through the crowd, ignoring them and their stares. I didn't know if anyone was following me. I didn't care. I assumed they were now talking about me behind my back. Again, I didn't care.

As I snaked my way through the crowd, I told myself that I needed to forget this just happened so I could put my game face on due to my upcoming date. I reached the door, pushing it with my right hand. As I was doing so, I felt someone grab my left hand. Felt, being an understatement. The moment the person touched my skin an electric current transferred through me. It was a feeling I felt just a few short weeks ago. Hoping they had the wrong person, I tried to pull my arm free, the hold on me never releasing. I slowly turned to see him staring at me with a concerned face.

"Edward. Just stop." I tried to tell him that I didn't want his pity. That he didn't need to look after me.

"Bella, please. Just talk to me." I shook my head, not wanting to hear him.

"I can't. I have to go."

"Please don't do it. I know this isn't you."

"You don't know anything!" By now we reached the side of the building, my car just a few yards away. "Besides, I signed a contract and have a commitment for tonight. I have to go."

"For me? Don't do this, for me? I just have a bad feeling about the outcome of this evening."

"Edward, I don't even know you, why would I not go tonight for you? I need the money."

"Well, do it for your friends. I know they care deeply for you and are very concerned about this new revelation."

"One that you forced me to reveal. And what the hell is this about you being engaged? I can't be around someone who is committed to someone but gallivants with escorts on the side. That is just wrong."

I apparently had him there, like a dagger in the heart. Bringing up his ruined relationship hurt him, I could tell. There were more questions for him, but I couldn't ask them here. Not now. Not tonight. Not ever?

"Edward, look, you seem like a nice guy, just let me be. I have to go."

He must have been defeated enough that he looked away, signalling to me that he was letting me go.

As if he had any choice in the matter.

For the second time tonight, I didn't turn around. I didn't want to see the look in his eyes, the look I probably should see. The look that said, you are seriously about to cross a line, don't go or that line will be drawn and once crossed, you can never go back.

…..

A/N: To answer your burning question: Yes, this is an Edward/Bella story. But, remember, she is 'testing' a career in the escort business.

Layer Cake Malbec is my Beta's favorite wine, featured in this chapter. Christmas 2010 is fast approaching. What will you be serving with your Christmas dinner?

And, one of the best Christmas presents I could receive would be a review. Please leave one. Thanks!