I woke up hearing a loud rhythmic thumbing. It confused me that my alarm clock was making such a noise and that my stomach was starting to churn like it usually does hours before my alarm tells me to get ready for school. It takes me a minute to realize that what I'm hearing isn't my alarm clock but a heart. Not just any heart; Edward's. He must have fallen asleep after I had last night.

My stomach continued to churn. I decided to get out now before violently waking Edward up while running to the bathroom.

Ever so slowly and carefully, I moved out of Edward's arms. Sliding down his body was the only way to get away, but I felt his erection coming on my journey down and earned a little growl from him while he slept. God it was even sexier when I caused it. Holy crow, the hormones again.

Finally, I made it out of his grasp and walked quietly to the bathroom. By now, my stomach was really churning. Luckily, I had enough time to shut the door and mentally prepared myself for what was to come. Unfortunately, this was horrible; almost the worst I've ever had.

By the time I was done, I felt like I had emptied two stomachs instead of one. I leaned against the counter feeling dizzy and lightheaded. This wasn't good.

I didn't want to bother anyone, but I was feeling worst by the second. I needed help. I tried getting up, but my strength was going away too fast. Suddenly, my stomach needed to be emptied again. With my last bit of strength, I made it back to the bowl just in time. This time, as I was leaning back, I felt the cold floor come under me and I couldn't get up.

"Bella, Bella!" Alice?

"Oh my god, Bella. Are you alright?" She was at my side trying to get me to open my eyes, but I didn't have the energy to do that.

"Alice, what the… what happened?" Oh no, Edward.

"I don't know, I heard her then I found her like this. You stay here; I'll go get mom and dad." She said then scampered out of the room.

I felt Edward pick me up, cradling me to his body. "Please wake up, Bella." He begged.

I didn't want to hear him beg, so I oblige even though it took more energy that I thought it would. I groaned then closed my eyes once more; I was just too tired to move.

"What happened son?" Dad was now in the room.

"I don't know. The morning sickness must have been too much." He answered.

"Might have been from all the stress she's been going through and the Chinese food may not have helped too much." Dad replied. His cool hands felt good, I must be running a temperature.

"Let's take her back to bed. I'll put in an IV for her, it appears she's dehydrated." He continued.

Oh no, no needles! But I couldn't say it nor could I move. I was too tired, too weak to protest.

I felt someone pick me up, but it wasn't Edward. I felt myself floating knowing that someone is carrying me down the hall. From the sound of the footsteps behind me, it sounded like everyone else was up.

"Will she be alright, daddy?" Alice asked sounding like she was close to tears.

"Yes baby, she will be. She's just tired. I'll be right back." Was he's reply as I was lowered onto my bed.

"Why did this happen?" Now she was starting to cry.

My heart broke for her, I didn't want anyone to cry over me; but what is happening to me is common, right?

"I think she would ask if you two still wanted to have babies." Emmett tried to laugh, but it sounded forced.

"It's definitely worth it in the end." Mom said breaking the silence.

She was right.

"Did she just say something?" Did I just say that out loud?

"Yes Bella, you did." Alice practically screamed.

"Alice, calm down." Jasper said.

Someone picked up my hand. It was the person I wanted to hold onto me.

"Bella, please open your eyes for us." He was in pain; I didn't want to cause him pain.

With what little energy I had, I opened my eyes. They found Edward sitting on my bed holding my hand over my bloated belly.

"Morning." He smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes.

A smile was all I could give back while trying to keep my eyes open for him.

"Is she awake?" I heard dad ask, but I didn't want to look away from Edward's gaze. It was the only thing keeping me awake at the moment.

"Son, I need to put this IV in her arm." He said moving back over to the bed.

I looked at him shaking my head. "No." I whispered.

"Bella, I'm here. Don't worry about it." Edward said calling my attention back to him.

I tightened my grip on Edward's hand as I felt dad wipe a piece of soft cotton on the crook of my elbow. I had to resist the urge to move my arm away from him and curl into Edward for protection, but my baby needed this. My body needed help; I had to be brave for my little sprout.

I took in deep breaths hoping to calm myself and only looking at Edward. He was smiling a reassuring smile at me, but I was still afraid.

"Alright Bella, here we go." Dad said as I felt the coldness of the needle touch my bear skin.

I clutched my fist into a ball resisting the urge to move it while I felt the needle being pushed under my skin.

A few tears sprang from my eyes before I knew about them. Edward's face continued to stay soft, but I could tell he didn't want to see me in pain. He wiped the fallen tears from my cheeks with his free hand and continued to rub small circles on my cheeks when there were no more tears coming out.

"Done." Dad said pulling out some tape to hold down the port.

I looked at my arm and grimaced at the sight.

"I hate needles." I whispered, but apparently everyone must have heard me for they were all snickering.

"We could see that." Edward replied through his snickers.

"Let's go back to bed. I'll check on you in a few hours, Bella, but I don't think you'll be able to go to school today." Dad said.

I groaned at his words because I didn't want my pregnancy to rule my life.

"I know, but you do have to take it easy. Alright?" He was both stern and caring.

"Ok." I replied.

While trying hard not to move my arm, Edward and dad pulled the comforter back over me.

After another round of kisses and sweet dreams—since it was early morning—I was left alone to go back to sleep which my body did very quickly.

It only felt like minutes, but it was actually a couple hours later when my alarm decided to start beeping. I tried to turn it off, but my arm could barely move. Some how, I was able to move it to turn off the annoying alarm. I peaked over at the time; 6:30 am. I groaned feeling tired then a felt a tug from my other arm. It took me a few seconds to remember the IV giving me fluids through a stupid needle in my arm.

A knock at the door drew my attention away from the horrendous needle.

"Come in." I tried to say, but it didn't come out very loudly. Luckily, the person on the other side heard me.

"Morning." Dad said walking in with his medical bag.

"Hey, good morning." I replied trying to act perky so that I could go to school, but my body had other ideas and dad wasn't fooled in the slightest.

"I see your body was thirsty. I think we should talk to your doctor about a diet when you go in for your appointment." He said while unhooking the bag from my arm. I hope he wasn't attaching a new one.

"Since you're awake, you won't need this anymore; but I will keep you in bed today." He looked apologetic. Although I was mad at his decision, I could not argue with him.

"Alright." I surrendered.

"Don't worry; someone will stay her to care for you. Your mother and I have to be out today, but we will be around for your doctor's appointment."

"Who's staying?"

"They're all fighting for the job as we speak."

"And I won." Just the one I wanted to win was standing in my door way looking like a Greek god. "Do you mind if I play doctor today?"

I giggled at his joke as dad snickered.

"Alright Bella, I'm taking this port out. Hold still." Dad said turning my attention away from my protector.

Stupidly, I looked down at my arm as he was tugging slowly at the tape that held it together. But then Edward's hand was gently tugging my face away from the gruesome sight. Thank God.

"There we go." He said when it was pulled out. "Wasn't that bad was it?"

"No, but I hate needles." I replied glaring at him.

"We know, but now it's out." Edward said.

A thought rushed through my head, "Can you ask the others to take my article to Eric today before 1st period?" I asked.

"I printed it out already and stuck it in an envelope before anyone could read it. I didn't, so don't worry about it." He answered.

"Thanks."

"Alright, we're all set here, so why don't you try to go back to sleep for a while longer." Dad said.

"Actually, I'm kind of hungry." I replied remembering that everything forcibly left my stomach a few hours earlier.

"I'll go down and see what mom recommends." Edward said.

"Keep it light all day today, Edward, and I'm sorry but no chocolate or peanut butter today, Bella." He told me sternly.

I groaned at the thought, but knew it was for the best. I nodded my head in agreement.

Dad gave me a kiss on the cheek and told me to go back to sleep. Edward stayed for a few minutes longer holding my hand.

"I don't know how dad survived the way he did." He whispered I think to himself, but it may have been to break the silence.

"Hey, men have the easy job, but women have learned to cope with this. Remember this is natural." I tried to reassure him.

"I don't think any man could learn to cope with this. This is shear torture."

"You'll get use to it." I shrugged my shoulders.

He chuckled and shook his head disagreeing with me. Why would he say he's being tortured as if he is the father of this baby?

"Morning." Alice chirped through my open doorway.

"Morning pixie." Edward laughed.

Alice ran into the room with the other siblings tailing after her. I tried to sit up, but failed feeling no energy coursing through my body.

"Are you ok now, Bella?" She asked sitting on the edge of the bed.

"Yeah, I'm just really exhausted." I replied.

"You look tired, little mama." Emmett said.

"Really, I hadn't noticed." I raised an eyebrow at him. Thanking him for stating the obvious.

"Don't worry, Bella, we'll get your homework today and turn in your article." Alice butt in.

"And no one has read it. I'm taking charge of it until it's in Eric's hands." Jasper spoke up before I could warn them.

"Thanks." I replied starting to feel the tears coming again. I pushed them back before they could escape.

"Do you want Alice and me to help you with a shower before we leave?" Rosalie offered.

"No thanks Rose. I know my body; I just have to let it recharge a bit. I'll see you all this afternoon ok?" I tried to reassure them, but they still looked worried. "Don't worry guys, I'll be fine. Remember. This. Is. Normal."

"Normal? Bella, you passed out after you heaved about a day's or so worth of food in the toilet. I don't understand how that could be normal." Alice fumed.

I was getting angry at her. This was normal, but she just couldn't see that.

Before I could retort, Rosalie jumped in. "Alice, she doesn't need to get worked up. Edward will take care of her, she'll be just fine. Maybe you should read those books I have. They really do open your eyes to what she's going through." Thank god for big sisters.

"You just scared me today, Bella. I don't want to ever see you like that again." She sounded like she was going to cry again and bring me along with her.

"And you always try to get me to stop crying." I laughed trying to make the tears go away.

She laughed as she wiped away her tears.

"Come on guys. Bella and the baby need their rest and we have to get ready for school." Rosalie announced.

I was grateful to her for getting rid of the attention from me, again.

"I'm going to get change, but I'll be back in a few minutes." Edward said before leaving.

Before he rounded the corner, mom came in with a small plate and a glass of water.

"I thought you needed nourishment." She said holding the plate out for me.

I took a cracker before even thinking about it. I was just so hungry that I began to nibble on it greedily.

"Slow it down, Bella. They're not going anywhere besides your stomach. How is it by the way?" She asked.

In truth my stomach was feeling better, I think. I was still so weak to be able to feel how the rest of my body was. Only my mouth and my arm were about all I could move at this point. I shrugged my shoulders to give her an answer.

"I don't know. I'm still really tired and it feels like the rest of my body hasn't woken up yet." I admitted.

"You'll be fine. Just get some rest and you'll both be right as rain." She replied rubbing my baby belly softly.

After I finished one cracker, I immediately went to grab another, but she caught my hand.

"Wait a few minutes to see how the first one feels before starting on a second." She scolded.

"Can I have something to drink in the mean time?" My throat felt so dry.

She smiled as she picked up the glass from the table and held it up to me. I didn't feel strong enough to hold it myself and she knew it. I took a few sips then gave it back to her. It was refreshing on my dry throat and carried away the after taste of my earlier vomit that still lingered on my tongue.

"Better?" She asked.

I nodded my head as another yawn escaped from my mouth.

"Alright, Edward knows how to care for you, but your father and I have our cell phones if you need us. Now, go to sleep little mama." She laughed.

I giggled with her. I was kind of liking the nickname anyway.

Mom recovered me up and gave me a kiss on the forehead reminding me to go back to sleep, but I grabbed a cracker as she got up. My stomach was weak, but it did need something.

Mom shook her head disapproving of my choice and took the plate with the rest of the crackers away, but thankfully, left the water.

I rolled over on my side putting a throw pillow under my stomach, getting more comfortable then smiled once more at Esme, my mom, as she left the room.

Esme's Point of View

Bella looked so precious laying in her bed, if so ill at the same time; but I know she will be just fine. A woman's body was designed to care for God's little miracles; however, our bodies are mortal and can fail us at times. Much like mine had with my last baby, the one that was conceived after Alice and Edward were born. How I will forever miss that little one who I barely got to know.

I walked into the kitchen pouring myself a cup of coffee then felt two loving arms wrap around my stomach. A kiss on my neck followed soon after.

"Good morning Mrs. Cullen." He whispered against my skin.

"Good morning Mr. Cullen." I replied back.

He chuckled at our little joke. "How is she?"

"Asleep."

"Still think it would be a good idea to have Edward here alone to take care of her?" I was worried as was he, but we could trust Edward to care for her. He seems to care for her as if he was the father of her child.

"Edward will do a fine job watching over them, and he knows to contact us if there are any problems." I spun around wrapping my arms around his chest bringing him closer for a kiss.

"I'm glad you are the mother of my children. You are so kind and compassionate to everyone around you, and you have spread that to our children; biological and adopted." He kissed me again.

I sighed. "I wish I could have given you more children."

He cupped my cheek. "You have or we have provided this family with enough children. Besides aren't six teenagers and one grandchild on the way enough for you?" He joked playfully.

I giggled, my loving husband could always make me feel better and will until the end of time which I hope is a very, very long time from now because I love to show my wonderful husband just how much passion I can give him.

Our kissing was interrupted by a loud cough.

We broke apart to look at our children standing in the doorway of the kitchen looking a little embarrassed. Well, it was more embarrassing last night.

"Good morning everyone." Carlisle greeted them.

They said their individual responses and separated to make their own breakfasts. I turned back to grab my cup of coffee, as well as, to fill the empty cup for the love of my existence. He grabbed the coffee pot before I could and swiped his cup from my hand. I smiled and playfully shook my head at him.

We took our normal seats at the table, followed by our children with their breakfast. It was comfortable silence until we had to leave, Carlisle and myself for work, our children for school with the exception of Edward and Bella.

"Edward, I made a list of foods that Bella can eat. Keep the portions light and remember to keep her hydrated." I said as Carlisle was helping me with my coat.

"No worries mom. I'll take care of her." He assured me while starting on the dishes.

It was obvious that he got his father's caring nature by the way he took care of everyone.

After a round of goodbyes and wishes of good days, we set off down the road. I road in Carlisle's car since I don't really like to drive—except for my motorcycle which my darling husband has always disapproved of, but knows that I will never give it up especially since it's a bonding tool for Jasper and I.

Carlisle dropped me off at my little office before heading over to the hospital. We got to my office early enough for a little make out session. I loved that we still feel like young teenagers even after almost two decades of marriage.

I was straddling his lap, our lips moving hungrily against each other's until when he finally spoke.

"As much as I love to ravish your beautiful body my dear, I'm afraid we should part for now." He panted pushing me slightly away.

I leaned my forehead against his also panting. "I believe, my sweet knight, that you are correct. We shall continue later though." I replied looking deep into his lustful eyes which I knew from experience that mine mirrored his exactly.

I rolled back onto my side of the car then looking at the mirror on the visor to check my make up. Luckily, we had learned to park where the trees could hide us on mornings like this.

After fixing my make up and smoothing my clothes, we kissed once more—only a peak on the lips—and I got out. Carlisle did not move or start the car until I waved once more from the door of my building.

As the day rolled by, I was quite content, but still deep in thought over what was going on at home until my cell phone rang for my attention.

The ring told me who was calling before I looked at the caller ID. It sometimes helped me to not worry during the time it takes to look at the screen.

"Hello mother." I greeted.

"Esme dear, how is my beautiful daughter-in-law?" She asked.

"Very well, how about you and father?"

"We are both wonderful my child thank you. How are the grandchildren? Still only five or have you added more?" My mother-in-law always loved a big family, and always joked about ours growing every time she saw us.

"The children are well, but we did adopt another." I was a little nervous about telling her about Bella and the baby.

"Oh really, tell me about this one."

I took a deep breath and began the story about Bella. Informing her that she was a beautiful, strong young woman—whom I know mother would appreciate—who was taken advantage of and abandoned with a baby.

"Oh my goodness. What an awful thing to have happen to one so young, and yet she is still determined to bring up this child from a bastard man?"

"Elizabeth, language." I heard my father-in-law say in the back ground. He was a demanding man, but was still no match for his wife when she set her mind to something.

"I'm sorry Esme, but you probably share in my feelings about this matter as well don't you?"

"Of course mother, the rest of the family feels the same way. You would love her when you first set eyes on her. My children already call her a Cullen girl from the way she acts."

"Of course, how else would we keep these Cullen men in line?" She joked and I laughed along with her. My father-in-law laughing in the back ground.

"Well my dear, I would love to meet my new granddaughter and great-grandbaby; in fact, that is why I contacted you. We were wondering if we could visit you all this weekend. We heard that the boys have a big game this weekend and we would like to cheer them on."

"Of course, you know the children would love to see their favorite grandparents, and I know Bella would love to meet you both as well. She really is fitting in with the family well."

"Well thank you dear. We are thinking about booking a flight that will get us in Port Angeles on Thursday evening. Would that be alright with you?"

"Yes, mother. We'll all be at the airport waiting for when you step off the plane."

"Oh brilliant. We will call you when all is arranged and with our itinerary."

"Sounds wonderful mother. I wish you safe travels."

"Thank you dear, and tell that wonderful family of ours we love them all including little Bella. Edward and I are excited to meet her."

"I will mother."

"Goodbye my dear."

"Goodbye and kiss father for me."

"I will." With that she hung up her line first and I followed after.

Most wives would be terrified of their in-laws, but I could wish for better ones. Edward and Elizabeth Cullen were the best people in the world; much more than my own family. My mother passed away when I was twelve years old. My father had always been a harsh man, more so that Carlisle's father, and after my mother died my father became more brutal. He didn't drink, but he would always discipline me harshly for the slightest infraction.

At the age of 17, I found life hard with him and my boyfriend. I thought both loved me, but as the abuse from them grew more and more with each passing year; I found myself needing a way to escape to a place neither would get me. Heaven and my mother's arms was all I was thinking about as I approached the cliff that towered over a deep ravine. Luckily, the dearest love of my life was jogging on the nearby trail when he saw me that early morning day. I thought killing myself when the heavens rose above the horizon would be a beautiful picture that would stay in my head as I traveled to meet my mother. It wasn't until I saw Carlisle for the first time that I truly didn't understand beauty or heaven.

His blonde hair that, at the time, was long and pulled into a small ponytail at the nape of his neck. His lean muscles made me feel protected in his arms. But what really got me was his heavenly blue eyes combined with his soft, thin lips that pulled me out of my personal hell. He was my savior and my lover from the first time I laid eyes on him, and I knew he felt the same way about me for he has told me so countless times over the years.

My phone rang again pulling me out of my imagination. I answered it with a smile on my face.

"Hello sweet knight. How is everything?" I asked.

"Hello to you too my dear. Everything is slow here today." He replied.

"You shouldn't say that my love or else it will pick up as soon as you and I hang up."

"Then maybe we should never hang up." He chuckled which made me giggle. "Tell me about your day so far."

"I am almost finished with one project while also starting on another. Also your mother called me just a few minutes ago."

"How are they?"

"Both are doing well and they told me that they are coming for a visit this weekend. They would like to watch the boys' game on Friday."

"How wonderful, but have you told them about Bella and the baby?"

"Of course, and they couldn't be more excited."

"She really does catch the hearts of those who she has not met yet doesn't she?"

"Yes she has."

"Excuse me Dr. Cullen, but we have an ambulance coming in soon." A nurse said on the other line.

"Thank you, I'll be right out." I heard the door close on the other line.

"I guess saying 'it's slow around here' really did jinx me." He chuckled.

"Well, it will bring people at ease knowing that the great Dr. Carlisle Cullen is there to help the sick and injured." I joked back.

"I hate to hang up on you, but I will see you later my lovely wife."

"I shall be counting the minutes until we do my adoring husband."

"I love you."

"I love you too. Goodbye."

"Goodbye."

I hated to hang up, but we did. How much did I want to stay on the phone with him until we could see each other again? I wanted to love my husband as he would love me. He saved me that day from myself and we became inseparable even to this day. He protected me from all those who would do harm to me, and I have returned this to him by supporting him. With the other cruel men in my life, I was lowly than them, but with Carlisle, we were equal in every way.

Edward's Point of View

Everyone had left for school or work now. That just left Bella and I alone. She must still be asleep for I had not heard anything from her since I left her alone with mom.

After the dishes were done, I went upstairs to retrieve my school bag and laptop. I had not been able to finish my homework last night because of Bella's meltdown, but I would have gladly do it again if it meant holding her in my arms again.

I would do it all over again, but I wished that this morning could have happened in a different way. I would have loved to wake up this morning looking at Bella, molded into my body as a completed puzzle. Waiting for her to open her eyes and get lost within the depths of the rich chocolate abyss. Then to see her smile when she sees that I am with her, protecting her and the baby that is growing inside her.

When I reached my floor, I decided to check in on Bella. I put my ear to the door, not wanting to disturb her, and heard her soft murmurs. But I wasn't satisfied. I tried to fight the urge to open the door, but it was too strong to overcome.

Slowly, I opened the door just enough that I could see her. Thanks to the sun, which was still behind a layer of clouds, I saw Bella laying on her side. Her hair spread over her pillow. One arm supporting her head while the other was draped protectively over her stomach.

"Edward." She said. Was she dreaming about me in her sleep?

"Edward." She said again, but I could tell from the sound of her voice that she was indeed awake.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to wake you up." I said softly, pushing my head more into the room so that she could see me.

"It's ok. I actually need to go to the bathroom anyways." She blushed.

"Do you need some help?" I probably sounded a little more eager than I should have, but I would go to the ends of the Earth and back again for this beauty.

"Just to stand up." She laughed.

I chuckled at her joke and went over to help her up.

She didn't look as sickly as she had before. Most of her color had come back, even with the blush. Still, she looked tired and weak. She rolled over and tried to set herself up, but she had a hard time doing so.

I pulled back the blankets and grabbed her legs. Pulling them over the edge so that she could still walk; knowing how much she loved to keep some independence.

She reached out and wove her arms around my neck while I put mine under her arms afraid to go a little lower when picking her up.

I stood up bringing her up with me. Once I felt her fully erect, I carefully released her. Her arms unhooked themselves from behind my neck, but when she was standing freely, she still did not have the strength to support herself. I grabbed her before she fell.

"Thanks." She said looking in my eyes.

"Your welcome." I replied smiling my lopsided smile which made her smile.

I wrapped one arm around her waist while she still clung to my shirt. As we walked, her strength was returning. By the time we go to the bathroom, she didn't need my full support anymore, but she was still very weak.

She grabbed the door frame, but I didn't want to give her up just yet. My arm still hung around her waist as she pulled herself into the bathroom. I loosened my grip as she moved away from me. How I wish she wasn't moving away from me.

She looked at me and smiled as she closed the door. I didn't know what to do besides smile like an idiot back at her then waiting until she was done.

When she finally came out—still holding onto something for support—I came over to her in case she needed me. I felt whole once again with her in my arms wishing that this would have been us this morning.

"Ready to go back to bed?" I asked as we moved down the hallway.

"I'm actually hungry for more food besides saltine crackers." She replied.

"Alright, would you like breakfast in bed?" I knew ordering her back to bed was going to cause a fight which is not what she needed. I decided that she could have the option of what she wanted to do.

"Might be a better idea." She answered.

We headed back into her room where I eased her onto the bed. When we released each other, she seemed better when off her feet.

I helped to cover her legs since she was leaning against the head board.

"Where's my school bag?" She asked.

"Downstairs." Still where she had thrown it last night.

She looked slightly ashamed which led me to believe that she was thinking of what happened last night. "Sorry about last night." She said softly.

"You have nothing to be sorry about." I replied sitting on the edge of her bed.

"I shouldn't have overreacted like that to dad. I don't know what came over me." She drew her legs up to her chest as tight as she could and wrapped her arms around her knees.

I pulled at her body to stretch her limbs. "You had every right to overreact. Don't worry, I'm sure mom gave dad an earful when she was pregnant and she was pregnant three times."

"Three?" Oops, I said too much. Mom was still sad about the lost of my youngest sibling.

"Mom had a miscarriage with the baby she was carrying after Alice and I were born. Because of that, she can't have anymore children." Bella's face lit up with fear. "She was depressed for a while, but dad later told me that it's normal for women who just had children to feel that way. There are ways that can help which is what happened to mom." I stroked her face to calm her.

"Is mom still on the medication? I know a little about the postmortem depression and it worries me a little. Among other things." She said that last part kind of quietly, maybe hoping that I didn't hear it; but I was curious.

"Mom stopped taking the medication about six months after her miscarriage. What are you so worried about?" I asked.

"Too many things." Was her answer.

She didn't need anymore stress than what she had been given already, so I let my next question slide.

"Don't worry. Everything will be just fine. You two have a family that loves you." I reached down and held her hand that was over her belly hoping that she would understand the last two words more clearly.

I know we had just met, but if feels like I have known her for years and I don't ever want to lose her.

"Thanks." She replied, her thumb rubbing circles on my hand. Wasn't I suppose to be comforting her? "I'll bring your bag up before I make you breakfast."

"Alright, can you hand me that glass first please?" She asked.

I smiled more, gladly reaching for the glass and handing it to her. He hands were a little shaky so I held onto the cup lightly. She did not refuse me.

"Slow it down." I said when she wasn't taking sips.

She scowled at me, but slowed down. I still thought it was cute when she did that.

She took a few more sips then gave the glass back to me. I put the glass back on the nightstand and went to stand up.

"Be right back." I said from the doorway.

She smiled widely as I closed the door.

I hated that I was walking away from her, but was liberated from that hatred by happiness that I was taking care of her. Again, I am young; but at the same time, it feels so right to feel this way or at least to a man in love.

Bella's Point of View

When Edward closed the door, I felt alone. My baby kept me company, but I wanted something more. I wanted someone to hold me and protect me like I do to my baby. Edward was the only who made me feel that way. I guess I shouldn't feel alone though because he is coming right back with my bag and breakfast. How lucky can a girl get? To have a Adonis literally wait on you hand and foot.

Hold on Bella, he may not even feel the same way you do. He's being here may be because he lost the challenge to baby-sit with the little pregnant sister. No, he does care for me. He's proved it time and time again.

Ugh, I'm confusing myself. Stupid hormones never give me a break.

I laid down fully in my bed, relaxing myself under the soft covers, and yet I wasn't so sleepy anymore. I decided to read, but my book was on my desk. I couldn't reach it from my bed.

I hope Edward doesn't hear me.

I got up slowly trying not to make a noise and to make sure I had enough coordination for this. Holding onto the bed, I made my way over to the desk. There was a small gap in between where I was and my destination that didn't have anything for me to hold onto.

Taking a deep breath, I gathered as much strength that I could muster and walked carefully to my desk. I was excited that I made it and didn't fall, but the way back was not so easy. I wasn't paying attention to how much strength that I had left and as I went back to the bed, my legs gave out. Luckily, I landed on my knees; not so luckily, Edward was now running up the stairs.

I tried to get up, but I was just too tired now.

"Bella, are you alright?" Edward flew into the room and to my side pulling me up to my feet.

"What were you doing?" He asked when he got me on my bed.

"I wanted to get my book and I tripped." Part of it was a lie, but I hope he didn't see that.

"Bella, you can barely stand by yourself. You should have waited for me." He replied putting my legs under my blankets. It felt nice that he was taking care of me and wanting to protect me, but telling me to wait for him was a little uncalled for.

I glared at him.

"Bella, you know I'm right so don't look at me like that." He glared back at me.

My glare didn't soften.

"Bella." He warned.

"Don't speak to me like that." I growled.

His face softened a little; probably trying to get mine to soften as well.

"You know, you're cute when you growl like a lioness, little kitten." I was a struggle to continue glaring at him. What he said brought back my earlier thoughts.

"So are you when you growl." I replied with a sly smile.

"I don't growl." He just did, but that may have been on purpose.

"You did this morning when I slid out of your arms."

He looked puzzled for a few seconds then continued with our little game.

"You made me growl. That's why I had that dream where I was a lion ready to ambush its prey."

"You make me growl, and so does everyone else who makes me mad." I raised an eyebrow to him daring for him to continue. He should know better by know not to.

He also raised an eyebrow almost challenging me. "Maybe because you are most attractive when mad."

"No, I'm not beautiful. I plain even when I'm mad." I retorted. It was true; I am plain and always will be.

"You don't see yourself very clearly do you?" He asked.

"What do you mean?" Where was he going with this?

"You don't see how your face brightens up whenever you smile or when you talk about your baby. You take pride in your accomplishments, but you never see how beautiful you look when you do." He touched my cheeks. His thumb brushing lightly almost like feathers. "You don't know how lost I get when I look in your eyes. They are so deep that I can't escape from them, nor do I wish to."

I could feel the tears forming, but I didn't care. This man was explaining to me how beautiful I am in a way that no on else has done. Sure they said it, but they never made me truly believe it.

"Will you please stop dazzling me?" I asked quietly.

"I dazzle you?"

"Whenever I look into your brilliant green eyes and when you smile at me crookedly."

He pushed his head closer to mine. "It should only be fair that I dazzle you as you dazzle me."

He was inches away from my face but not moving any closer. He must be waiting for me to make the first move. That's what he's been doing, letting me make the first move. He does care for me more than a brother/sister relationship, and he doesn't want to hurt me so he is having me set the pace.

I took the opportunity. Remembering what I did yesterday in the library; it was still fuzzy, but maybe this would send a jolt to my memory.

I leaned in the rest of the way, closing my eyes as our lips touched. The pleasurable fire from our lips was beyond words. I had been kissed in the past, but that was rough and hard. This was soft and easy.

I brought my hands up to his neck, pulling him closer to me as his tongue swept across my lower lip asking for permission. I granted it slowly and his was patient, waiting for me.

His hand on still on my face pulled me closer to him while his other arm snaked around my waist pulling our bodies together. When they did, I felt more of that fire spread everywhere.

I needed this man, needed him to show the pleasure I had missed out when I lost my virtue to a man who promised me passion, but turned out to be pain.

Since he was letting me take the lead, I pulled him closer and sank down onto the bed.

We were almost flat on the bed when he stopped us and the kiss.

"Bella, we shouldn't." He panted.

I had to gasp at air too, how did we forget that?

"Don't you want me?" I sounded like I was begging and I was.

"More than you'll ever know, but we need to take this slow." He answered.

I felt hurt and guilty that I had done that. Pushed him and me too far.

I dropped my arms from around his neck.

"Bella, don't feel so sad. I can't tell you how much I want you right now, but we…" He meant to go on, but I put my finger over his mouth to silence him.

"I understand Edward. It's just the way that I'm feeling is so new to me. I've never felt completely loved until I came into this family." I would have gone on, but we needed to take this slow. Yet, I'm sure he knew what I really wanted to say.

"I'll never know how that feels, but rest assured, little mama, the both of you will feel nothing but love." He replied when I removed my finger from his lips.

I smiled. I loved it when my family called me that; especially Edward.

"How about I go get your bag and breakfast and. You. Stay. Here." He continued pointing to the bed.

I pouted, but he kissed my lips and it brought back a smile.

"Alright, but hurry up so I won't get so bored or lonely." I teased.

He flashed me that crooked smile again and left.

I thought I was going to have to pull out my book since he would be gone for some time, but he was actually back in my room under a minute later.

"I heard you fall and left the tray on the stairs." He shrugged answering my question.

He set the tray across my lap and got on the other side of the bed. "I thought we enjoy breakfast in bed." He said.

I looked down at the tray. One plate had eggs and sausage on it while the other had toast and a cup of strawberry yogurt on it. It wasn't hard to guess which one was mine.

"I feel sorry that you have to eat so little while I have to eat enough for two." I joked handing him the plate that was suppose to be mine.

He looked amused, but knew of the joke I was playing.

"Very funny." He replied grabbing the correct plate.

I went to take a bite of my toast when he pulled it mostly away from my mouth making me take a tiny bite.

"Keep it small and light were mom's orders." He said when I glared at him.

I rolled my eyes, but did as he said.

We ate our breakfast in comfortable silence. By the time I finished my little dish, Edward had finished his heap of food. Still, I didn't complain because my stomach still felt weak like the rest of my body.

"Finished?" He asked.

I raised my eyebrow at him.

"I'll take that as a yes." He answered putting his head so close to mine as he reached for my empty plate.

I whimpered softly when he pulled away. He just chuckled and gave me a quick, yet passionate kiss on the lips. It was mean, but at the same time, nice.

When he came back up to my room after taking down our dishes, he brought back my bag and his.

It was 7:30 in the morning, but we worked on our homework for a while—well, mostly me.

Two hours later, we were done and I felt drained again. The classes at this school really do push my brain. This will be a busy year for me.

"You look tired." Edward said.

"Thank you captain obvious." I replied rolling my eyes.

He chuckled and began to remove our school stuff off the bed. I was helping to put my work away when I remembered something.

"Edward, could you hand me that bottle on the shelf please." I asked.

"Finally, you are actually getting people to do stuff for you." He teased. I glared at him as he retrieved the bottle.

"What are these?" He asked looking at the bottle.

"Prenatal vitamins." I answered.

"Have you been taking them this week?" He asked grabbing my glass from the nightstand ready to give it to me when I needed it.

I concentrated on opening the bottle rather than the bottle, but he knew the answer from my silence.

"Bella, when was the last time you took these?" He asked sounding stern.

"Before mom and dad came to adopt me. I've had a lot on my mind lately, you know." I replied dumping the correct dosage in my hand.

"I'll make sure you take them every morning before we go to school." He said taking the bottle and the cap from me.

"Edward, you know how I hate being treated like a baby." I whined after taking the medicine.

"I know, but Bella, you do need help. After this morning it should be pretty obvious that you do need someone to help you every once in a while." He retorted.

As much as I hated to admit it, he was right. This morning I really needed help. I couldn't take care of my baby by myself. I'm just glad that I found a family that is willing to put up with me.

"Thanks." I replied leaning towards him for a small kiss. He met me half way.

When we pulled away, Edward had on his crooked smile. My heart was doing flips in my chest from the sight.

"You should probably get some more rest." He said.

"Yeah, could you stay with me?" Please say yes.

"Of course." My smile widened.

He put the cap back on the bottle and set it on the shelf while I put my glass back on the nightstand. It was farther than I thought, but I did it.

Edward walked around to the other side of the bed to climb in. He lay on top of the blankets and I frowned at him.

"What?" He asked.

"Edward, I'm already pregnant. We can't do much anyways." I retorted.

"On the contrary Bella, there is a lot that we can do even if you are pregnant." He replied.

I know he was being playful, but I wish he was serious.

"But we are not going to take that step until we are both ready." He continued. My face must have given away my thoughts.

I huffed in annoyance and lay down, curling up onto Edward's side. He wrapped his arm around me, holding me to him. Protectively, and yet lovingly at the same time. I swear I heard him call me and my baby angels, but I do think that Edward Cullen is an angel.

I fell asleep with a smile on my face knowing that I was right.

Edward's Point of View

Bella was so tired when we got done with our homework that she quickly fell asleep in my arms. I wasn't tired myself, but I dare not move either. Watching her sleep was the only thing I wanted to do at this moment.

She looked so calm and peaceful, and utterly adorable.

After a few minutes, I decided to just rest; not sleep. I closed my eyes and pictured myself laying in my meadow on a nice, warm, sunny day with Bella lying by my side.

"Edward." Bella pulled me out of my day dream.

At first, I thought she had woken up, but looking down and listening to her breathing, she was still asleep.

She must be starting her sleep talk. She whispered my name again confirming my thoughts. I smiled when she did.

"Protect us." She said.

She must feel that I protect her when I'm around.

"I will." I whispered to her.

"I love you." She said.

I looked down at her to make sure she still was asleep. Did she say that she loved me? Was she serious?

From the smile on her face, I would say she was serious.

"I love you too." I whispered back, and meant every word of it.

I must have fallen asleep because when I opened my eyes, Bella was gone.

I leaped out of bed and raced to the bathroom first. The door was open and she wasn't inside. Next, I sprinted down the stairs to the main floor. When I smelled something heavenly, I knew I was headed in the right direction. In the kitchen, reaching into the oven was Bella.

As she pulled out a hot muffin pan, I sat down on one of the bar stools not making a sound. When she turned around, she jumped in surprise.

"Edward, remember that I'm pregnant and don't need a heart attack." She fumed.

I wasn't angry at her, but was just frustrated that she was turning the tables and for disobeying orders. She knew to stay in bed and rest. Why was she up making muffins?

"Don't try that, Bella. You're supposed to be in bed resting." I retorted.

"Sorry, but I was restless and didn't want to disturb you. You've been having it harder than I have lately. In fact, this whole family has been having a harder time with me in the picture." Where was she going with this? "You guys shouldn't have adopted me. I'm ruining your lives." She was starting to cry now; the hormones were going into overdrive.

I made my way around the counter and held her. She fought to get out of my grasp, but calmed down after a few minutes of struggling. I stayed calm in order to keep her calm.

"Bella, you and the baby are not wreaking havoc on our lives. We all love you both, and this is a hard time for us, Bella, because we don't want to see you hurt or so sick." I could hear her sobbing so I led her to the kitchen table to sit down.

"I'm sorry; I just don't know what came over me." She said as her tears started to slow.

"It's going to be alright. I just want to keep you both safe and comfortable. You shouldn't have to worry so much about us. Today is all about you and making sure you both are well." I replied rubbing her small stomach.

She smiled then grabbed my hand pressing it to her belly. The baby kicked where we were touching and brought a bigger smile to our faces. Right now it truly felt like we were a couple; just a younger version of one.

After Bella calmed down, we finished making the muffins for everyone. We worked quietly, but every so often, I caught her looking at me and vise versa.

As we put away the pans into the dishwasher, I noticed it was one o'clock in the afternoon. I was hungry, and knew that Bella had to be too if she hadn't eaten since before our little nap.

"What should we make for lunch?" I asked.

"I don't know. I'm surprised I haven't thought about food when we were making the muffins. I just wanted to make them, but I didn't really think about eating them. How strange is that?" She asked.

"Very. How about I make up some turkey sandwiches?" I asked coming up behind her as she was setting the big plate of muffins on the island. I wrapped my arms around her pregnant form and kissed her cheek.

"That sounds good." She smiled.

I made her sit on the stool after we finished loading the dishwasher then got started on the sandwiches. Bella watched me the whole time while drinking a glass of water.

I wish I could see inside her head. I couldn't tell what she was thinking, but I had a feeling that she was thinking about us and what we should do.

"Bella, what are you thinking?" I raised my eyebrow catching her off guard for she blushed when I asked.

She definitely was thinking about something embarrassing.

"Nothing for you to know." Was her reply.

I shook my head and finished the sandwiches.

We continued to stay silent as we ate. I didn't put much on Bella's sandwich; just a few pieces of meat, lettuce, and very light mayo. She didn't complain though.

"Don't you guys have practice today?" She asked breaking the silence.

"After school on Tuesdays and Thursdays the coach teaches swimming with his wife to little kids." I answered.

"Lucky you or else he would torture you all the time." She joked.

I laughed with her. The coach already brutalizes us during practice. I am almost so grateful that we don't have practice everyday or else I would be sore to the point that nothing would move.

After lunch, I cleared our dishes and put them in the dishwasher. Bella got up and started to walk out of the room.

"Where do you think your going?" I asked.

She turned back towards me. She looked stronger than earlier, but from her appetite she wasn't completely better.

"I'm going to go take a shower before the others get home." She said with a little attitude.

I held up my hands in defense and let her go on her way.

After the dishwasher was loaded and started, I went upstairs to retrieve my book. I heard Bella still in the shower and she sounded like she was giggling. What was she laughing about?

I lay on my bed with my book in my hands. I had left the door open just in case Bella needed me, I could hear her better.

As I was turning the page, I caught a glimpse of something moving. Looking over my book, it was Bella only in a towel heading into her room. Her pale skin glistening from the moisture that still coated her body while her long brown hair lightly dripped more water down her back. Why must this woman torture me? She looked like Aphrodite herself.

I went back to my book trying to distract myself from giving into my perverted ideas. God that was hard.

No, don't think about anything close to that. Ophelia drowning herself, Ophelia drowning herself.

"Hey." I put down my book to see Bella standing in my doorway with a book in her hands.

Her hair still wet, but she is no longer wearing the towel. She dressed in sweat pants and a tank top that seemed a bit tight on her. It's the first time I had a chance to see her pregnant belly. She was bigger than I thought. I wonder if she's having twins. Another thing I hadn't seen before are two beautiful lumps above her stomach. I knew women's breast get bigger during pregnancy, but hers look deliciously plump.

"Um mind if I sit with you?" She asked pulling me out of my thoughts. Thank god because something was going wrong in my pants and I didn't want her to see that again.

"Ye…yeah." I stuttered.

She laughed when I answered; did she plan to wear that to see my reaction? If so, she's a vixen goddess sent to Earth to torture me. Well, who's complaining?

I moved over on my bed to make room for her. She curled up against my body. I felt whole again.

We didn't talk as we went back into our books; it wasn't awkward, but comfortable. We could be alone together and not fill the silence with useless words. Just being together was enough.

Time was moving by at a fast pace without our knowledge until we heard the door open from the garage leading into the kitchen. This wonderful afternoon with the woman of my dreams came and went too fast for my liking.