Chapter 7

I got the call, from Dr. Cullen's office, on a Thursday and Rosie immediately planned a celebration weekend. She really wanted to take me clubbing, but I wasn't quite sold on the idea. As much as I loved to dance, the club scene wasn't really my thing. I don't do one night stands and that is all most of those guys are looking for. But, I guess it couldn't hurt to let loose and have a little fun. It had been over a year since my last relationship and I missed the comfort of lying in someone's arms. I knew this would be good for me, so I gave in and told Rose that I would go.

She made me dinner on Friday night, and we spent the whole evening hanging out at her place. We ate junk food and watched terrible movies. It was awesome to be able to relax and spend some stress-free time together. Then Saturday arrived, and Rose insisted on coming over to help me get ready. Apparently, I am unable to dress myself properly. I happen to think that I do just fine, but I didn't protest. When that woman put her mind to something, she always got her way. It was easier to just give in from the start and let her enjoy herself.

Rose looked gorgeous, as always. Her blonde hair was styled in soft curls that flowed down her bare back. She had on an extremely sexy red dress, which hugged and showed off every curve. Although I wasn't attracted to women, I could still appreciate the female form. Rose thrived on attention and she would certainly get plenty of it tonight.

She chose my outfit for the evening and had me dressed in fitted, dark-wash jeans and a topaz t-shirt that rivaled the tightness of her dress. She paired this with a trendy black jacket. Apparently blue was my color and it brought out my eyes. Whatever. I honestly didn't worry about that sort of thing, at least not on myself. I was a good-looking guy, but I didn't try too hard.

"Emmett, you are seriously hot." Rose said with pride as she pushed me in front of the hall mirror on our way to the door. I had to admit that she knew what she was doing and told her as much.

"You're the best Rosie." I said with a smile. "Just don't get too used to the whole Emmett dress-up doll idea."

"Yeah, yeah. Whatever you say." She teased good-naturedly.

"And, by the way, you're the one who's hot, woman."

"You think?"

"Oh, come off it Rose. You know you're going to be the best-looking woman there."

She couldn't help the knowing smirk that took over her face, but simply shrugged and said, "Well, I guess we better go and find out. But, seriously Em, you look really great. The guys are gonna be all over you."

I shrugged noncommittally as she grabbed my hand and pulled me out the door. We took a taxi to the club, mostly to avoid the hassle of parking. Neither of us were big drinkers. We were there to let loose, dance, and have a good time. Since Rose was the organizer of the evening, I followed her obediently in and out of several clubs before we entered the right one. Or at least one that was up to Rosie's high standards. All the Rage had recently opened and it had a fun, yet sophisticated atmosphere. We entered and several catcalls were directed our way. Where Rose craved the attention, I was a little unnerved by it. On an individual basis, it wasn't too bad, but having a group of guys descend on you is a bit overwhelming for me.

We strolled over to the bar and enjoyed a drink, on the house, thanks to Rose's impeccable flirting skills. Mine was non-alcoholic, as I had to be especially careful even when in remission. The music was loud, with a heavy beat, and my eyes roved over the swarm of grinding bodies. The place was packed with what appeared to be a good mix of people. In fact, All the Rage seemed to appeal to both the gay and straight crowd.

Several eyes turned our way, but I couldn't be sure which one of us they were directed at. We did make for a fairly eye-catching couple. But, then again, neither of us wanted to give off the impression of being taken. I grabbed hold of Rose's hand and spun her out to the dance floor. We laughed and swayed to the beat for a few songs and it was really freeing. I felt lighter than I had in a long time and couldn't keep the grin off my face. I had to hand it to Rose, who usually knew what I needed better than I did.

Rose leaned in close to my ear and said, "I'm going to head to the ladies room for a sec. You okay?"

I just nodded and continued to dance. I loved that woman, but she could be a bit overprotective at times. The feeling was mutual though, so I couldn't complain too much.

As soon as my best friend stepped away the predators began to descend. Eager bottoms and aggressive tops alike saw an opening and prepared to strike. I was picky when it came to the men I dated. I didn't go for just anyone. These men wanted only one thing, and that was not what I was looking for. Sure, I'd go for a dance, but further than that was not an option. Still, I always tried to be kind and let them down as gently as possible. Unless, of course, they were jerks. It happened more often than not, that a pushy man just wouldn't take no for an answer. It was because of guys like this that I so often avoided the club scene.

After sending a few hopefuls on their way, I was grinding with a cute redhead, and surveying the room. My dance partner was friendly and fun to groove with, but that was about it. My gaze met Rose's and she shrugged apologetically. If I was selective about men, Rose was downright persnickety. She easily evaded the advances of the brave few who dared to approach her. She really was a knock-out and a very intimidating one, at that.

My girl winked at me and headed to pick up a man of her own. I saw her catch the eye of a tall hunk with shaggy blonde hair. He looked a bit rough around the edges and I could see the hint of a tattoo peeking out from the sleeve of his black v-neck tee. Rose definitely went for the bad boy type and he fit her tastes precisely. The only things that seemed out of place were his cowboy boots.

She sauntered towards him and he met her halfway. As they began to dance he leaned in to say something and her face lit up. Rose deserved some happiness in her life and someone who would treat her well. Maybe this could be the guy for her.

As the current song ended, I politely extracted myself from mister red. It was time to move on to someone with a little more potential. I headed to the bar for some water, and took the opportunity to scope out a new dance partner. There were some very hot guys here tonight, but no one really stuck out and captured my attention. No one made my nerves tingle the way Edward had. Edward. I barely knew him, but I couldn't shake the powerful hold that he had over me. I had been in his presence for less than ten minutes total and I was completely hooked.

I continued to survey the room and was beginning to consider heading home. Rose seemed to be having a great time and could certainly handle herself. I'd kind of gotten over the thrill of being here. The guy I wanted to be with wasn't here, and I really wasn't looking to find a mediocre substitute. I was still debating internally, when a throat cleared next to me. Well, there goes that plan. Now I've got to be nice and deal with another guy.

I gulped down the rest of my water and turned to face him. "Hey there," he said with a slight smirk. "I thought I recognized you. It's Emmett right?"

Thank God I had finished my water before looking, or I probably would have choked on it. There, standing before me, was perfection personified. No one in the room mattered any longer. I only had eyes for the unbelievably gorgeous, Edward Cullen.

AN: Okay folks, this is the last chapter you'll see for at least a week. I'll try to update soon after that. Let me know what you think so far!