Thank you for lovely, lovely reviews.

Time to answer some questions straight from your reviews, so, everyone is on the same page.

Q&A

Does this mean that Edward is now the future Duke of Volterra or is it still Emmett?

-Edward is the future Duke of Volterra. The courtesy title of Marquess will be later on passed to his firstborn son when he takes over the Dukedom.

Isn't Bella falling for Edward?

-I don't believe Bella is falling for Edward just yet, because she still holds Jacob in her heart. She recognizes his masculinity and the way he makes her feel sometimes, but she will never act on those feelings until she can forget Jacob.

Chapter 7

Bella woke early the next morning and joined Edward in the dining room for breakfast. He threw her a dazzling smile as he stood to greet her. She replied in kind when she took the seat he offered. Still wearing his smile, he sat back down as she proceeded to serve herself with the dishes in front of them.

"Would you like to share me your good news?" She asked spreading jam onto her toast.

He waved The Times in front of her, "Thanks to you, mother and daughter-in-laws' of London will strive to be loving towards one another. You don't know how many husbands you've saved."

Bella sighed, "Her Grace is a very loving mother-in-law and I respond in kind. Why is it so unusual?"

His warm hand settled on top of her resting one on the table, "Because it is genuine affection they see."

Bella suddenly felt like her toast was a thousand grain of sand sliding along her throat. He was right, of course. She felt like a daughter to the Duchess and her Grace has done everything to make her feel accepted. The affections behind closed doors and in public were the same ones. Not like many other mother-in-laws who pretend to be cordial with their daughter-in-laws for the sake of appearances.

The thought annoyed her because she didn't want anything to stand in the way of her leaving. The further she implemented herself in their lives, the harder it would be to let go. From now on, she would have to detach herself from everything and everyone if she wished for her escape to go smoothly.

Edward squeezed her hand to gain her attention, and Bella quickly slid it away clearing her throat uncomfortably. His dazzling smile faltered a bit, and then replaced with a neutral expression.

"Last night was a success. Everyone has now accepted you as my Marchioness," Edward stated as if he dared her to accept the title herself.

She knew she couldn't, so she simply gave a nod, acknowledging but not committing. When she didn't speak, Edward continued with less enthusiasm than he began. Bella was slightly sorry for being the cause of dimming his cheery mood.

"I suspect we will receive more correspondence asking for our presence. I shall let you decide which ones to attend as I am too busy to sort through them," Edward spoke crisply.

She gave a slight nod, nibbling on her toast.

"I've wanted to change the dining menu for awhile now. Would you change it for me? Perhaps, add some recipes you know of and such. Mrs. Hailey can help you," Edward said.

His question didn't warrant an answer, nor did he expect to know if she wanted to do them or not. This was her job as his wife to run his home, and he was handing over the reins now.

"You can also redecorate if you wish to do so. I would like for you to purchase a new wardrobe. Something grander as the new Marchioness you are," He finished.

Bella nodded to these last requests, but she really wasn't going to do them. His home was perfectly well decorated, and her wardrobe was less than six months old.

"Do you need extra pin money?" His question caught her off guard.

She rarely bought anything to require pin money, and she had no idea how much he was already allowing her.

"No, thank you," She replied.

"What a malleable wife I have," His tone was a mocking one.

They perfectly well knew if she was a malleable wife, she would be warming his bed at night amongst other things.

"I won't be able to accompany you during the day for my business is very demanding. Everything is at your disposal. I will be home to attend whatever event you have chosen for the evening. My day is long; I must be on my way. Enjoy the rest of your breakfast," He stood to leave.

Bella picked off pieces of her toast in silence waiting for him to leave, but he surprised her by placing a kiss on her forehead. His long fingers brushed the side of her cheek as he pressed his warm lips against her skin. Then, he was gone.

The days passed by as Bella pretended to live a married life taking on her role as Marchioness. A role that was quite an occupation on its own, but she was glad to have a distraction. Edward had requested that she change their dining menus, so, she sat down with the cook. He was a rather robust and friendly man who easily worked with her. It took a several days before they came up with an appetizing casual menu and a menu intended for guests.

Bella assisted Mrs. Hailey in stocking the pantry by sending servants out to pick up additional items needed on the new menus. In between everything, she replied to correspondence and sorted through the invitations. She even penned a note to Alice after learning that her sister-in-law and friend caught a cold. No wonder she hasn't been around of late.

That first fortnight, she didn't hear anything from Jacob. She supposed it would be rather difficult for him to contact her if she didn't go anywhere, but she would have to venture into town soon.

During the afternoon, ladies of rank came to call on her for tea. She was the youngest out of all of them, and she barely remembered their faces. They came often enough that she learned their names, and played hostess for it was the proper thing to do. They were all pretty content speaking about themselves that she offered little to their conversation. They spoke of lady things, but often the conversation steered toward a realm she had no knowledge in, lovemaking.

They didn't dare question her outwardly about her relationship with the Marquess, but they hinted it often enough. She shot them down every time. Bella believed that they wished to catch a glimpse of Edward in his domain, but he was always away by the time they came calling. Soon, they gave up and rarely came calling at all. She'd rather enjoy a mellow afternoon sitting on the couch sipping tea and reading a book.

By the evening, she would prepare to go out with Edward to whatever event she lined up for them. They never kept each other's company for long as they socialized amongst their peers, but she often caught him staring at her across the room with longing in his eyes. When they returned home, he dropped her off at her bedroom door to bid her good night. Bella understood that he was subtly asking for more than a good night kiss, but she never granted him that favor.

It's been a month since she last heard from Jacob and she was beginning to worry. Her mind was wondering as she leisurely walked by the London shops. Mrs. Hailey suggested she go out since she hasn't been feeling well lately. The housekeeper insisted it was because of being cooped up in the house all day long, and Bella suppose it was good to stroll about town for some fresh air.

"Care for a walk, my Lady?" Jacob's voice asked from behind.

Bella turned around surprised to see him, "I don't believe that is a good idea."

He smiled, "A married Lady is allowed to talk to a friend, no?"

"Yes, of course," Bella replied.

"Then, accompany me to the park where there's sure to be many pairs of eyes to make sure we stay properly distanced as we talk," Jacob insisted.

Bella nodded and they fell in step with each other, rounding the corner to Hyde Park in silence. The park was populated since the weather was nice, and they walked a safe distance from each other.

"He's not keeping you locked up in the house, is he?" Jacob's voice was low and cautious.

Bella shook her head, "I've been really busy. There are pretenses to keep up."

"You haven't changed your mind, have you?" He pressed.

"No, I was afraid you would," Bella replied.

"I meant to contact you earlier, but you never leave the house. Now, I am reassured you haven't changed your mind after all. I have also begun gathering the money we will need after we arrive in the Colonies," Jacob stated.

Bella nodded, "I shall make my preparations soon."

"I have received news from my cousin. Our passage is secure for the Falcon's departure one month and three days from day. The ship is to depart at dawn," Jacob informed.

Bella nodded silently as Jacob stopped walking and looked at her.

"What is it?" Bella asked.

"It's not too late. You can-"

"Jacob, I have made up my mind. I want to be with you, and unless you decide that I am damaged goods to you. I won't change my mind or back out of this plan. If you are having second thoughts, tell me now," Bella interrupted.

"It's not that. Have you thought of the consequences in the aftermath? You won't be here, but your parents will. I just want to make sure that you have thought and accepted everything our actions will cause," Jacob stated.

Bella sighed, "My parents are strong people. They will survive the scandal. They have to. Besides, if it weren't for their adamant protest in our union, I wouldn't have to resort to this. They have themselves to blame."

"Then, I will contact you as the time draws near. Damn it," Jacob hissed looking at a point over her shoulder.

Bella turned only to be faced with a pair of angry, green eyes making his way to her on horseback.

Edward had been on his way home from his solicitor's office after closing an estate on the outer skirts of London. He hated when customers, men of title and money, haggled him for a lower price. For the past month, he found himself drowning in his work more and more. It helped him take his mind off of his young, beautiful wife at home. It was absurd that she more or less barred him from her bed, and even more so at the distance she placed between them. He didn't want to pressure her, but it was getting beyond bearable. Not to mention she was talking to the man he loathed in the entire world.

Edward pulled his black stallion to a halt in front of them and jumped off.

"Wife," He greeted.

"Husband," Bella replied.

"Lord Rochester," Jacob regarded with a tone as cold as ice.

Edward turned his attention to Jacob, "Lord Black, what a surprise to find you here with my wife."

"We ran into each other on the streets," Jacob said with a smile.

"Hmm, Bella, if you are done here," Edward's glare dared her to defy him.

Jacob saved her from making a choice, "Good day, Lady Rochester."

Edward's jaw clenched when Jacob walked away without acknowledging him which was socially required because of his rank. He tossed Bella up on his horse and jumped up behind her, almost crushing her with how hard he gripped the reins.

The way he sat ramrod straight through the whole ride with his angry, hooded eyes burning a hole in the back of her head, Bella knew she was in for it this time. His brooding silence unnerved her as she sat fidgeting in front of him all the way home.

He jumped off his horse and handed Bella down. Stevens came out to assist them, only to have Edward toss the reins in his direction and jerk Bella into the house.

"What is this about?" Bella demanded as Edward dragged her upstairs by the arm.

She fought to match her steps to his long strides so she wouldn't fall. He opened her chamber door and yanked her inside. With his foot, he kicked the door close with a bang and locked it.

Bella struggled against his hold and he let her go with a force that landed her against the edge of the bed. He began pacing the floor in front of her as she rubbed the sting from his grip away.

"Are you insane?" Bella demanded after a minute.

He stopped pacing at her question and scowled, "Must you two exchange lover's glances in front of me?"

"What are you talking about?" Bella asked shaking her head.

"Lord Black!" Edward spat the name like it left a bad taste in his mouth.

Ah, so he was jealous of Jacob all because they exchanged innocent greetings. The veins in his forehead almost burst when he saw her mocking smile.

"Would you rather I exchange lover's glances behind your back?" Bella goaded.

He pointed a finger at her, "If I ever see the two of you together again. I will personally kill both of you."

Bella laughed, "Good. That way Jacob and I will be together forever."

She hadn't realized he'd moved until she felt his fingers squeezing both sides of her cheeks. He tightened his fingers by gently flexing it when he felt her struggled against him. Bella stilled herself. She never seen this side of him before, he was like a man possessed.

"Then, I'll just kill him and make you live with me forever," He said slowly.

Bella twisted her face out of his grip and shouted, "There is no forever with you, Lord Rochester!"

The formal address stung him, for he recoiled as if she'd slapped him. He clenched his fists at his sides. His blood was boiling underneath his skin ready to erupt, and his anger was directed at Bella when it should've been on Lord Black.

"You belong to me," He growled.

"I will never belong to you, ever," Bella spat back.

He was against her the next second, his lips moving furiously against hers, forcing her to open her mouth. Bella fought against him, pounding her tiny fists against his shoulders which did nothing. She opened her mouth to scream, only to have him shove his tongue down her throat.

These kisses were not gentle, not like the night he had stolen her virtue. These were powerful, angry kisses that were meant to brand her as his. He was going to claim her again, Bella realized.

"Stop!" She cried when he abandoned her lips for her neck.

"You can't do this," Bella urged trying to block his groping hands from her body with no success.

They were everywhere, scalding and hot against the fabric of her gown. And she couldn't stop him when he ripped the fabric off her shoulders. Bella clung to the material to shield her chest from his view.

"I can and I will. I'm your husband," He growled lifting her onto the bed in a single motion.

Shocked by being underneath him, Bella's body momentarily lost all fight and he pulled her close to his body, holding her as if she were a fragile doll.

"Bella, I want you. Can't you tell or are you so naïve that you don't know? I want you so much that I ache for you. I drown myself in work so I can forget my desire for you. So, I beg you, please give yourself to me," His voice was without a doubt filled with yearning.

"Please," He whispered melding his lips to her in a softer, more passionate embrace.

'No, no, no…' Bella's mind chanted the mantra, but she couldn't make the words out loud. She didn't want this, nor did she want him. With sheer will, she kicked her legs out at him and tried to scramble off the bed. His hands pushed her back and he was now situated between her legs.

"I'll make it feel good, I promise," He said.

Bella opened her mouth to let out a scream that was smothered by his tongue once again. Tears began to swell behind her eyelids and flow freely down the corners of her eyes. She squeezed them shut and bit down on his lip, hard.

Edward jerked back against the pain and wiped the droplets of blood on his bottom lip. The throbbing pain cleared away the red haze clouding his thoughts, and he stared down at Bella. She was crying, and gripping at the front of her gown so tight that her knuckles were white. He felt her tremble in fear beneath him for the first time and he realized he had caused this. Another minute and he would've added rape to his list of crimes against his own wife.

He shook his head, "I'm sorry, Bella."

Grabbing his jacket off the floor, he flew out of the chamber. Against Stevens protest, Edward mounted his horse and rode off into the night.

What had he done? How could he have used such force? The sight of that vile Lord Black and his wife standing in any proximity of each other pricked his anger more than it should. And Bella…She knowing taunted him. This was all her fault! No, that wasn't right. No matter what she said or did, he should've never reacted so irrationally. There was no other woman who could make his blood run hot one minute and cold the next. He needed to clear his head.

Edward stopped at his normal gambling hall. He hadn't been back here since his wedding to Bella. Well, he needed the usual smell of expensive cigars, liquor, and cheap whores tonight to calm his rattled nerves. He needed to forget Bella for just a few hours.

Upon his entrance, a group of friends hollered for his attention and the cheap whores littered into the room. Edward ignored them, for now, and moved into the comforting circle of his friends.

"Is there trouble in paradise already?" The Earl of Devonshire, Jasper Whitlock, a close friend from Oxford, joked.

Edward narrowed his gaze at his childhood friend and took his place at the table.

"Deal me in and raise the stakes," Edward said.

"Just in time," Mr. Sanford smiled. Edward recognized him as a wealthy banker.

"We were just about to raise the stakes to 2,500 pounds and a tasty little morsel," He finished.

Mr. Sanford pointedly stared behind Edward's shoulder. Curiously, Edward turned to see what he was talking about. A young woman, a couple years older than Bella, stood by the grand piano staring back at the group of men. No, her eyes were focused on his. They were almost the exact same color as Bella's eyes, and he swore she could've been Bella's twin sister. That was enough incentive for him to win.

"Pretty little thing," Lord Devonshire commented.

"She's looking to secure a protector," Mr. Sanford said, "Whoever wins gets the money and the whore."

Edward threw a bank draft onto the table and the other men followed suit. With the high stakes, the card game lasted longer than usual. In the end, Edward emerged victorious and 10,000 pounds richer. He locked gazes with the woman who was his to secure as a mistress. She batted her eyelashes at him, and thrust out her already amply displayed chest.

A hand rested on his shoulder and Lord Devonshire said, "As a good friend, I must advise you to go home to your wife."

"I advise you to let me go claim my prize," Edward shrugged the hand off and stalked toward the woman.

They were soon in a bedroom and she already had his shirt opened. Her expert hands worked to loosen his breeches wasting no time. His heart pounded with the will to forget Bella, but the rhythm kept speaking her name. It kept calling out to him, reminding him that she was at home now.

He wanted to forget her if only for a few hours. He wanted to forget the words she said to him. To forget what he almost did to her.

More importantly, he wanted her to do to him what this woman was doing now. He wanted their one passionate night again. He would give anything to feel her yielding lips against his, the touch of her hands, and her soft body beneath his. He'd kill for the love she refused to give him because it belonged to another man. He wanted her. His Bella.

"Stop," He gasped.

"My lord?" She looked up from down on her knees.

"I said stop," He ordered righting his clothes.

She stood up pressing her full length against his body. Her cheap perfume wafted through his nose. It was nothing like the freshness of Bella's freesia-like scent that always seemed to cling to her wherever she went.

"I can please you, my lord. Isn't that what you are looking for?" She asked rubbing his erection through his breeches.

Edward pushed her away, "No."

He tossed her a sack of coins and left.

By the time he reached the door to his home, Edward finally understood what had driven him to almost rape his wife-jealousy. The green monster had reared its ugly head when he saw his Bella speaking to Black. In all of his twenty-four years, he had never been jealous of anyone or anything. And he was jealous now because the one thing that belonged to him didn't really belong to him.

How foolish of him to think he was above such feelings and when it hit him. He responded like a boy instead of a man.

"Milord, you're home," Mrs. Hailey rose from a chair in the sitting room.

"What are you doing up?" Edward asked his housekeeper.

Mrs. Hailey wiped the sleep from her eyes, "You know I can never sleep until you're home, even when you were a boy. Old habits die hard."

"Go to sleep, Mrs. Hailey. I am a grown man. I can take care of myself," Edward stated.

"I know, I helped raised you until you became a Lord. You seem weary so I'll make this quick," Mrs. Hailey announced.

Mrs. Hailey narrowed her eyes at him, a look that he'd gotten used to over the years. She disapproved of something he did or had done, and Edward hated disappointing the old lady for she was always there for him when he was younger. Like a second mother.

"What is it this time?" Edward asked with a sigh.

"Milady refused her supper tonight and I believe she threw a gown into the fire. I smelt the burnt material," Mrs. Hailey wrinkled her nose at him.

"Thank you for telling me," Edward stated side-stepping the woman.

"Milord?" Mrs. Hailey called to his back. Edward stopped out of respect for the woman who helped raised him.

"A word of advice if I may," Mrs. Hailey stated.

"Please," Edward invited.

"Milady is still young. I suggest you exercise more patience with her or you will lose her. Maybe not in body but in spirit and that is a scary thing," Mrs. Hailey's voice grew solemn.

Edward took the stairs two at a time and cracked Bella's door opened gently. Darkness and silence greeted him as he walked in. He promised he would only take a second; long enough to see that she was alright. There, on the bed, Bella laid curled up into a ball.

She was asleep by the sound of her even breathing. Edward gently lifted the covers up to her shoulders and brushed a stray strand of hair away from her cheek. He pulled his fingers away and noticed that they were wet. His heart began to ache once he registered that she was still crying in her sleep.

He had hurt her profoundly today. This was all his fault and he swore he'd make it up to her. Even if it took his whole lifetime, he would make it right.

To be continued…

For3ver Immortal