Authors note: Sorry for the lengthily delay, I have been busy working on a new one shot for the Cherry Exchange Contest, so if you're interested check it out (there are some other great entries too)

Thanks to everyone who has encouraged me to update the next chapter- here it is, but be warned this is un beta'd.

Chapter 8.

After what felt like a full day of sleep I started to stir, but still I didn't want to open my eyes. Instead I snuggled closer against Edward and made the most of his closeness while I had the chance. His grip was firm but reassuring as I lay there blissfully intoxicated by Edward's presence, but eventually I gave in and reluctantly opened my eyes, though when I did, I was surprised to find that he was already awake and gazing down at me, smiling.

"Morning," he said, with not a hint of sleep or tiredness in his voice, which left me wondering how long he'd been awake.

"Morning," I sleepily replied back.

"Did you sleep well?" he asked, still making no effort to move or push me off him.

"Yeah," I sighed dreamily, as I thought back to how comfortable it was being in his arms all night long.

"Good," he grinned, leaning over to kiss my forehead and when he pulled back a teasing grin overtook his face.

"Your hair looks like a haystack, but I like it," he chuckled.

I scowled up at him in annoyance and groaned, before removing my hand from his chest and running my fingers through my hair in an attempt to tackle my severe case of bed head. I'd barely started when Edward's hand took mine and placed it back on his chest, while his other hand replaced mine in attempting to calm my unruly hair.

And though I could have happily stayed in Edward's arms all day, eventually we had to get up and get dressed. Thankfully Alice had dropped by with a few of my things this morning, so I headed towards the bathroom to change, and though I had loved borrowing Edward's clothes yesterday, I instantly felt better for being back in my own.

After I'd dressed and made myself more presentable, I headed downstairs to the kitchen where Edward was stood making us some drinks. He had changed into jeans and a grey T-shirt and was still sporting a crazy case of bed-head. No one could pull off that ruggedly dishelved look quite like Edward Cullen. When he had finished preparing our drinks, we sat in a comfortable silence at the breakfast bar, while Esme made a start on breakfast.

The last few days had been trying and difficult, but in talking through my initial embarrassment about what had happened and Edward confessing the guilt that he felt, we were finally able to deal with what had happened and were completely comfortable around one another. Now that everything was out in the open it felt like a great weight had been lifted, which left us free to relax and enjoy spending the day together.

Despite Esme's offer to stay as long as I liked, I was reluctant to put them out, but this being Edward, he wasn't willing to let it go so easily and he insisted that I should take things slowly and have another days rest just to be on the safe side.

I didn't understand his concern because I felt fine in myself. Maybe I still felt a little more tired than usual, but my appetite was back and I was more settled today. Nonetheless, despite my assurances that I was okay, I eventually conceded to Edward's request to take things easy, under the condition that I was going home later that day. Esme had been wonderful in taking care or me and Edward too was just as considerate. He treated me so well throughout the day. I ate when he forced me to and he was always watching me and checking that I was okay. It was quite adorable really, but I felt bad about putting them out any longer.

And while a part of me didn't want to leave them, I knew that I had to because there was no point in getting any more attached than I already was. If I stayed another day, I ran the risk of becoming an incapable and needy woman who begged Edward not to go, so as it was I tried to make the most of our time together.

All day long Edward was his typically charming and caring self. He would frequently hold my hand or wrap me in his arms and though I desperately wanted it to mean more, I knew it was just Edward being Edward. As a result, my feelings had only been intensified by the devotion he had shown in taking care of me, but no matter how much I wanted more from him, I accepted that friendship was all we would ever share.

Besides, it was enough to snuggle into his side, inhaling his sweet scent and to enjoy being close to him. Having him so close meant that my skin became even more sensitive to his touch and every accidental touch, or slight gesture shot straight through my body like an electric current. I tried not to let it show, but I could hardly prevent my body's natural response to him and from the sly looks and occasional wink or smile he sent my way, I was certain he'd noticed too. Mostly I would blush and look away from him, but I guessed he was used to that by now too.

In response to his friendliness I found myself acting more affectionate than ever before. Almost subconsciously, I noticed that I reached out for him whenever he was not already besides me. I was constantly aching for some form of contact and most of the time it was a battle fighting the incredible urge to kiss him.

Unfortunately, all good things had to come to an end and when the day drew on, I began preparing myself for saying my goodbyes to the family. Edward had to get back to work as soon as possible, so he was leaving later that evening to get his flight back and as a result, dinner was turned into leaving do of sorts.

Alice and Jasper even dropped by for dinner, which was obviously a regular occurrence judging by how well they all interacted. I watched on amused as Jasper was his usually charming self with Esme, while Alice was as bubbly as ever, keeping Carlisle and Edward entertained.

They seemed so content and comfortable together that they were like a family, which of course led me to think about my own family - whom I hadn't seen for a long time. My Mom had up and left when I was barely out of nappies and had hardly been in touch since. From then, it was just me and Charlie and though my dad had always been there for me, he had his own life with his new wife, Sue. I didn't begrudged him his happiness, but at same time it didn't make missing out on family time any easier to deal with, and spending quality time with the Cullen's only reinforced the fact that I really did miss not having my family closer to me.

"You okay?" Edward broke me from my reverie, his hand finding mine as it had all day.

"Yeah, sorry, I was miles away," I admitted, glancing back to him.

In the process I didn't miss the delighted smirk that Alice sent my way when she clocked our joined hands, but I'd long gotten over felling nervous about being openly affectionate with Edward. All too soon dinner was over and we all congregated in the hallway to say our final goodbyes.

"I'll see you at work," Alice said brightly, squeezing me tightly and Jasper was his usual charming self as he lifted my hand to place a light kiss on top.

"A pleasure as always, Bella," he smoothly said and almost immediately I felt Edward's arms encircle me from behind.

"Hey, keep the charming to your fiancée," he said in mock irritation.

I playfully elbowed his side before threading his fingers in mine and after a few moments I reluctantly left the comfort of Edward's arms, to say bye to Carlisle and Esme. Esme affectionately hugged me and made me promise that I would come and see her again, before she and Carlisle conveniently left me and Edward alone to say our goodbyes.

It was easier said than done and I was learning the hard way that it wasn't so easy to let go of someone I held so dear. We were quiet for a moment and an awkward silence fell between us which had never happened before, as we were tried to think of what to say next.

"Thank you for looking after me," I said to break the anxious silence.

"It's all part of the service," he said with a small smile, though another emotion was brewing behind his gentle eyes.

Not for the first time today I ended up in Edward's arms and did the only thing I could; I clung to him needfully. I don't know how long we stayed locked in each others arms, but however long it was, it still didn't seem long enough. When we pulled apart, we held each others gazes for a fraction longer than was necessary. I was about to leave but before I did I needed to ask the question that had been on my mind all day. Throughout the day Edward would nip upstairs, taking his phone with him and though it could have been completely legitimate, his guarded look when he returned told me that he was up to something. I trusted Edward enough to know that he wouldn't do anything reckless and stupid, but at the same time I had to be sure.

Looking him in the eyes I began apprehensively,

"Listen Edward. About James..." I paused, unsure how to voice my concerns.

"Don't worry about him. I promise you will never need worry about him again," his voice was level, his face expressionless and panic set in as I worried over what he had done.

As if reading my concern Edward was quick to reassure me. He cupped my face in his hand as he began explaining,

"The police had an anonymous tip off about a prominent photographer in the possession of several illegal substances. With the amount of drugs they found, he will be in jail for a long time," he speculated, offering me a weary smile.

"Was that you? I mean, did you do that?" I stuttered, hoping that Edward had no hand in any underhand tactics.

"Bella, I was behind the tip off that's all. I promise the drugs were his own doing, though I can't deny that I suspected as much," he replied.

Whilst James obviously deserved what he got, I couldn't help feelling relieved and I hugged Edward again.

"Relax," he said soothingly.

"You didn't honestly think I would let you out of my sight with him out there on the loose?"

Although I really couldn't tell how he felt about me, Edward's tenderness towards me when we parted showed how fond he was of me, but fondness was not enough when I knew I loved Edward and on instinct I reached up to kiss his cheek, but something happened; at the last minute I changed my mind and instead went straight for his lips. It was merely a soft, chaste kiss that was more reassuring than passionate, but regardless, my lips still tingled from the contact.

Pulling away slightly, I looked up at him and he seemed as shocked as I felt.

"Bella, I think you should go now before I decide to keep you," he sounded like he was joking, but the look in eye was strangely serious.

"Goodbye Edward," I reaffirmed before scurrying away from him.

"Bye Bella," I heard him call out, but I couldn't turn around; I didn't want him to see my heated cheeks.

The journey home was pretty mournful and it showed how pathetic and dependant I had become, when only 20 minutes had passed and already I missed Edward. I arrived home about an hour later to a cold and gloomy reception. I was frequently on my own in the flat with Rosalie often away on various projects around the world, but that had never bothered me before now, but having spend the past few days with the Cullen's, the flat suddenly seemed empty and lifeless and I found myself craving the security and comfort of their presence.

Of course, I didn't have to wait long before Mr Wonderful as I had taken to calling him, got in touch. I had only been in the house a matter of minutes before Edward rang to check that I got back okay.

Ever since then it had been the same story; Every day he phoned to check up on me. He claimed it was for some other reason, but I knew better and one time he even got Esme in on the act, when I received a surprising, but welcome call from her a few days ago.

And while his concerns were completely unwarranted, I couldn't claim to be unhappy at his protectiveness over me. However, despite the frequent phone calls I was still disheartened by the fact that he was quite literally on the other side of the world. I felt utterly ridiculous for missing him so badly, but I couldn't help myself. Love wasn't meant to be easy, but I never imagined it would be so painful either and my constant mood swings confused even me. It was like I had a split personality; One minute I was moody and miserable, then the next joyful and cheerful when I heard from Edward.

Some nights I struggled to sleep with all the thoughts of him running through my mind, though it didn't help matters that sleep was a constant reminder of the perfect moments we had shared last week when I had fallen asleep in his arms. I ached with longing and often wondered if he ever thought about me too, but as a means of taking my mind off Edward, I was helping Alice with preparations for her extravagant wedding.

The latest in a long list of plans was to find the perfect wedding cake. Luckily for him, Jasper had escaped wedding duty, so me being the ever helpful bridesmaid had stepped in at the last minute. I was beginning to regret that offer having spent half the morning trying cake after cake. I was actually starting to feel quite sick and only the buzzing of my phone distracted me from the queasiness that was going on in my stomach. Excusing myself from Alice's side, I headed to the far corner of the room for some privacy. I was beyond excited to see the caller id and was smiling before I'd even heard his voice.

Just two words made me turn to mush.

"Hello Bella," he sounded cheerful and had the ability to dazzle me through any means of communication.

"Hi Edward. I thought you would have long forgotten about us lowly newspaper critics Mr King Of Hollywood," I teased, quoting the latest poll that he had topped.

Hearing his laugh on the other end of the line made my smile grow ridiculously wide.

"I could never forget about you, Bella," the sincerity in his tone silenced me. "How have you been?"

"I'm fine Edward. Just like I was the last time you checked up on me," I tried to feign irritation, but I was beaming. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your call. I assume there's a reason beyond enquiring about my health?"

"You got me there. I'm almost finished up here, so I will be back in London for a few days if you fancy grabbing a coffee or something?" he asked, sounded unusually nervous.

"I would really love to see you again," he said after a pause.

Two things I was not prepared for; One that Edward would be back so soon and secondly, that he was so eager to see me.

"Hello, Bella. Are you still there?" his voice broke into my shock.

"Yeah I'm here. Coffee sounds good," I quickly mumbled.

"Cool I have a few work commitments to fit in around my stay, but how about I give you a call later this week to finalise?"

"It's a date!" I stupidly said. Why did my mouth get away from me?

"Yes it is," I could tell he was smiling when he responded.

"Where did you want to meet?" I quickly asked to get away from my slip up.

"Our place?" he suggested.

I had no doubt he meant the coffee shop and my heart did a little flip that he referred to it as ours.

"Perfect. I'll see you soon," I said dreamily.

"I'll be in touch. Bye Bella," he replied before the line went dead.

I held on to the phone for a few moments after he had disconnected and took a few moments to compose myself before I went back to Alice. She was one interfering pixie who was somehow able to sniff out any hint of gossip. As I approached I tried to appear impassive, but the knowing look she sent my way showed she was on to me.

"Was that Edward by any chance?" She asked, arching a knowing eyebrow.

"How did you know that?"

"You're blushing and your face just lights up when there is anything involving him," she answered grinning like an idiot.

"Does not!" I protested, though I knew I was fighting a loosing battle.

"Whatever you say," she smiled deviously before marching off back in search of the perfect cake.

Regrettably the week leading up to our reunion seemed to pass painfully slowly, but a week later when the day of our 'coffee date' finally arrived I was beyond excited.

I arrived early and the café was just as charming and homely as I always remembered it to be. While I waited for Edward, I popped myself down on the counter and ordered a drink. Remembering what he had the last time we were here, I ordered him a coffee too. I was about to pay when I sensed a presence behind me. I didn't bother looking up and instead dug out some loose change in my purse when a thick American voice spoke,

"Can I get that for you ma'am?"

He most certainly could not. Ma'am! I thought, outraged.

"No thank you. I'm waiting for someone," I replied, not even bothering to look up at him.

"Well, well. I'm gone not even a fortnight and how quickly you forget me!" said an unamused voice that I knew so well.

When I looked up I wasn't disappointed by the glorious sight that greeted me. He was so staggeringly attractive that he could pull on an old pair of jeans and a simple T-shirt and still look sexy

"Edward," I exclaimed, realising how happy I was to actually see him in the flesh.

When he pulled me into a warm hug, I willingly breathed in his unique scent before I released him from my firm grip.

"What's with the accent?"

"I'm trying it out for a new role and thought it was perfect to tease you with," he said with a shrug.

"It succeed. I didn't know it was you," I told him as something caught his eye besides me.

"Is this for me?" he questioned, looking pointedly at the drinks in front of us.

"Yeah, I thought you would want what you had last time. Forget it if you want something else," I mumbled feebly and started pushing the coffee out of the way, when his hand came down on top of mine to still my movement.

"Don't, it's perfect. I'm just surprised you remembered that's all," he said with a smile.

"Shall we?" he said gesturing towards our table in corner.

At first it seemed like both of us were talking to cover our initial nerves, but once we settled down we both loosened up and never really stopped chatting. We hadn't been sat down long before I clocked a young woman approaching hesitantly. I had noticed her looking across a few times already, so I suspected that she recognised Edward and sure enough, she shyly asked for his autograph. Predictably Edward was as charming as ever and he chatted with her for a few minutes. I actually felt quite sorry for the poor girl; she was practically drooling, though in a way it was good to see that his dazzling wasn't just limited to me.

If possible, her excitement increased when I offered to take a photo of the two of them together, and once I had figured out how to work her camera phone she was more than satisfied and was soon on her way.

"Thank you both so much," she gushed. "I'm sorry for interrupting. I will leave you and your girlfriend to it."

I dipped my head to hide blush, but I immediately felt Edward's hand on my chin, encouraging me to look up.

"Will I ever tire of seeing that colour on your cheeks?" he wondered.

Looking up at his warm eyes, his hand on my chin, with his other still holding mine on the table, I realised that our cosiness did indeed make us look like a couple. If only it were true, I thought wishfully.

Soon after we settled back into our previous conversation, we even briefly spoke about James, though when I say we, I mean me. When I told Edward how I'd read of James' arrest he remained unmoved and wouldn't be drawn on the subject. It was obviously still a sore subject to him and he was quick to change the conversation.

"I have a confession to make," he said seriously and his eyes stared into mine.

"Let's hear it then," I urged, though I will admit to feeling slightly nervous at his admission.

"So maybe I haven't been exactly forthcoming with you about why we are here. The truth is I have a promise to keep," he said, struggling to keep the sneaky smile off his face.
"Promise?" I repeated eager to see where he was going with this.

Thankfully he didn't keep me waiting too long before he began explaining,
"Do you remember the day we spent together and there was that project I couldn't tell you about? The top secret job," he explained when I shot him a bemused look.

"Well it's been given the final go ahead," he said smiling. He had never looked so gorgeous as when he had that crooked smile on his face.
"Tell me!" I squealed with excitement.

"I can't deny you anything," he exclaimed, shaking his head lightly. His gaze left mine as he began fishing around in a bag that I didn't even notice he'd brought with him. His beaming smile returned when he pulled out a thick bound document and placed it down on the table in front of me.

Annoyingly, his hands were on top of the front cover which gave me no clue what it was he had been so secretive about all those months ago.

"Edward," I wined like a needy child.

"Your eyes only," he said with a smirk.

"As if I would say anything. You know me better than that," I tried to look offended, but Edward didn't buy it for a second.

"Quit pouting," he ordered. "Perhaps this will bring a smile to your face."

Finally he removed his hands and showed me what I was eagerly anticipating and I sat there gob smacked for a few moments as I struggled to adjust to what he was showing me. Edward appeared nervous by my silence as he began frantically rubbing his chin.

"Is this what I think it is?" I asked, daring to believe he had a part in one of my all time favourite play's.

"Romeo and Juliet. Oh my god this is like a major big deal," I was rambling now.

"And you're playing?" I stupidly asked, though I was fairly certain I knew the answer. Edward would make the perfect Romeo.

"That would be Romeo," he said with a slightly smug smile.

At his confirmation, I leapt out of my seat to congratulate him properly.

"I thought it might please you," he whispered in my ear.

When we pulled apart and took our seats opposite each other once more, he offered me the most breathtaking smile.

"What does Esme think?" I asked, remembering how we had spoken of our shared love of the classics.

"It's one of her favourites too," I added in response to his bemused expression.
"I don't know, I haven't told her yet," he casually replied. "I told you that you would be first to know. I'm in the habit of keeping my promises."

"Oh," I replied, completely overwhelmed that he was sharing such a big thing with me.

"So what are your plans while your back?" I asked, hoping to get an idea of how long he would be around for this time.

"I have a few photo shoots to get through, but nothing is set in stone. I only have a few days till I head over to the states for the press circuit there," he replied sounding disappointed.

"Oh," I replied, hearing my own disappointment clear in my tone.

"It's only for a short time so I will be back in London the following week," he added with a small smile.

"Doesn't all the travelling drive you insane? You must be exhausted. You're barely in one country more than a few days. That has got to take it out of you," I pondered.

"I'm used to it," he admitted with a shrug. "Besides it's worth it."

He then reached for my hands across the table, and gave them a gentle squeeze, before he went quiet and just sat there stroking my palm with his thumb.

For a while we sat in silence, but when I glanced up at him, he appeared uncomfortable and nervous as he shuffled around in his seat. It was odd and reassuring to see him so nervous, but at the same time slightly unnerving to see him glancing at me every couple of minutes.

"I have something to ask you," he suddenly asked out of nowhere, before he continued hesitantly,

"I've been meaning to ask you for a while now."

I was slightly anxious when his hold on my hands became tighter and was it my imagination, or was he blushing?

"I wanted to ask you. What I mean is …" he paused again and I was more surprised that he was so flustered, but abruptly his nervous demeanour disappeared when he sat up squarely and his usual controlled self returned when he began speaking,

"My father is organising a benefit for the hospital. He asked me to invite you along if you're free. Esme is desperate to see you again too."

He finished, looking frustrated as his hand ruffled aggressively through his hair.

"Sure when is it?" I didn't even hesitate.

He confirmed that it was the following Friday and I immediately started wondering whether or not Edward would be back in time to attend. As if reading my mind he quickly added,

"I'll be there too."

"Sure sounds good," I mumbled, feeling my cheeks heating up again.

"Great," he replied though his smile didn't seem totally genuine. He actually looked disappointed again.

"Would you like another drink?" he offered, when he spotted my empty mug.

"Yes please," I smiled up at him as he went to order up.

While Edward was busy getting our drinks, I couldn't get rid of the nagging feeling at the back of my mind about his strange behaviour. No mater which way I looked at it, it still didn't make any sense. Why would Edward be so nervous and obviously anxious about asking such a simple request for his father? Unless it wasn't his father he was asking for.

Maybe I was confused, or deluded or quite possibly both, but in that moment I considered the insane possibility that he felt even a fraction of the feelings that I felt for him. Maybe, just maybe I had missed all the signs before. It may have been wishful thinking on my part, but so many things didn't make sense. It would certainly explain all the small gestures and touches and those little looks he sent me ever now and again.

Suddenly in that one moment I knew what I needed to do; I had to act, to seize the moment and tell him all of the feelings I had repressed over the many months. I could take a chance now or spend the rest of my life regretting not doing anything about it. It was very easy to stay with the familiar, but I knew that what we had could have been so much more, and if I didn't take the chance and follow my heart now, I would never know one way or the other.

The moment felt right; This was our place after all and if I'm honest, this was probably the exact spot where I had fallen in love with him in the first place. Seeing Edward approaching with our drinks in hand, I decided it was now or never. I planted a bright smile on face, because I had to at least act confident, when inside I was a nervous wreck.

I let him settle back in his seat before I took a deep breathe and began what would either end our friendship or make my dreams come true.

"Edward, I have something to tell you too," I said strongly and paused. For some reason I couldn't speak; I was too overcome with a rush of emotion.

He looked at me with wide, dare I say, hopeful eyes and said,

"You can tell me anything Bella, you know that."

He squeezed my hand as if to reassure me, but he didn't succeed, if anything I felt more terrified. He was studying me so intently that it was intimidating my senses. My heart was beating erratically and I felt sick with nerves and fear. All of my doubts and insecurities came back to haunt me as I struggled to proceed. Mostly, I was terrified of what I would do if he turned me down, but I quickly pushed that thought to the back of my mind. I had to do this before I chickened out.

"I.. I … I think. No, I know." Great, I was stumbling already.

Taking a deep breathe I met his gaze, my mouth felt so dry but I ploughed valiantly on,

"Edward the thing is I..." but before I had chance to continue my sentence, my face fell at the shrill ringing coming from Edward's phone that lay idly on the table.

"Hold that thought," he said offering me a tense smile.

Deflated, I turned my attention to the drink in front of me and tried not to let my disappointment show, but deep down I knew that both the moment and my courage to say anything had gone with that single phone call. Sinking further into seat, I left him to it as he spoke for a few minutes in a hushed tone. I blocked out what he was saying, but I did notice he kept glancing at me throughout. I was never brave enough to look back and in the meantime fidgeted awkwardly, using any distraction I could to avoid having to look at him.

"Sorry about that," he started apologetically when he placed the phone back on the table and put his hand on mine where it lay on the table. He was replicating how we were before, but everything had changed.

"You were saying?" he appeared hopeful, but a hint of disappointment was clearly evident in his eyes. I think he gathered something was going on, but he was oblivious to what that was.

"Nothing, it was nothing important," I quickly replied.

"Very well then," he responded, and a slight scowl marked his face as he drew his hands away from mine.

I felt cold and slightly uncomfortable at his dismissal and looking back across at Edward. He seemed distracted and frustrated, though I couldn't understand why. Perhaps it had something to do with the phone call he'd received.

"That was my agent," he started. "I have to go now, but I will be back in London in time for the benefit."

I nodded back, disappointed when I noticed he was already standing.

"It really was great seeing you again. Goodbye Bella," he said as he leaned down to kiss my cheek chastely.

He was gone before I even had the chance to say goodbye and I could only watch on bemused as he strode out the door, slamming it on his way.

I sat there for a few minutes pondering just where it had gone so wrong. What the hell had just happened? One minute I was so close to telling him what I had long felt, the next the moment was completely obliterated.

But maybe it was a good thing that I was interrupted before I had ruined a perfectly healthy friendship. It was probably for the best, because there was no way in hell I fancied having that particular conversation with Edward. It would have been both humiliated and painful to hear him say that he liked me only as a friend and who knows, it might be better this way and in time maybe my feelings would be easier to deal with.

Growing up my dream guy was probably the same as every little girls fantasy; He would be tall, dark, handsome,charming and kind, but slightly mysterious too. But the painful truth was that I already had my dream guy in my life, though sadly he was only a friend to me. A smart person would tell me to move on and stop torturing myself by constantly being around the source of such joy and pain, but no matter how much it hurt to control my urges, and no matter how many times I was hurt, I couldn't and wouldn't leave him. Because even though there were so many reasons why I should have ended the misery, there was one reason to keep him in my life; I loved him and I couldn't imagine a life without him in it.

Sorry, this chapter wasn't one of my favourites to write, but as you can probably tell things are coming to a head soon. I know it seems a bit drawn out, but you've gotta remember that this is no ordinary relationship. The way I see it is that it will take time for them to accept and act upon their feelings. But I promise it's not long now. The next chapter is one of my favs, and I promise there will be a kiss or two thrown in for your patience...

As always, all reviews are happily received :)