I do not own Twilight :)

I just wanted to say how much I appreciated all the reviews I got for the last chapter and how incredibly happy I am that so many of you understood where I was coming from and how I was feeling. It's really heartwarming to see how many of you enjoy reading my story and how excited you are for the next chapter!

I especially want to thank Rosemariehale, Nevaeh Potter, and Lori Fladmark who have always reviewed, sent PMs, and showed excitement and support for this story (even when I wasn't updating haha). There are so many of you who have done the same and we would be here all day if I listed you all but truly know that I thank all of you! There are a lot of guests who leave reviews and sadly I cannot reply but know that I love each and every one of your messages! Alright I'm done rambling on! On to the story!


Chapter Nine

I Belong To You

~Bella~

I began waking up when the fresh smell of morning coffee filled my room before I could even open my eyes. I wanted to turn around to look over to the clock on my nightstand to check what time it was but I suddenly felt heavy and confined in place surrounded by pillows and my blanket. I opened my eyes slowly and quickly realized that it was neither of those that was keeping me from moving. That's right, Edward came over last night and stayed with me. I smiled as I felt his arms wrapped around my waist, holding me to his chest as he laid on his side. I tilted my head up and looked up at Edward's sleeping face before I inched up to see his gorgeous complexion in the dim sunlight that slightly crept through the curtain. I couldn't help but trace my fingers over his eyes and nose, down to his lips that had kissed me so tenderly last night.

Last night.

That's right, I told Edward everything about my past last night. I was so scared to tell him and I expected him to run for it as soon as I was done telling him how messed up I was however, he never did. He stayed and he even said that he loves me more than I thought he did. And if I'm being perfectly honest I loved him even more for saying that.

I felt my heart skip at those words. Edward loves me, as impossible and strange as that sounds—it made me so unbelievably happy. How could he not want to break up with me after everything that I told him? After telling him that I wasn't ready to have sex yet and the reason why. He understood me so easily and honestly, letting me know how much he loved me as if it didn't faze him that he couldn't fulfill his needs like the other men I dated in the past. He only cared about me and about how I felt. I thought about pushing him away. I did. But Edward says he wants me, in every way that I never thought he would and that alone was enough for me.

I closed my eyes as I felt them stinging from the emotions I was feeling now and rested my head against the pillow to look at the gorgeous man that I loved so much. I laid on my side, facing him as I took in every bit of his peaceful appearance for a while as I found myself completely lost in everything that this man is. I moved my hand towards his messy hair and caressed his head, feeling every silk strand slip in between my fingers and I sighed in content. I finally moved closer to him when I saw the way his lips parted slightly when he exhaled. I bit my lip as I gathered the courage and leaned over his face slightly to press my lips against his gently. I had planned on placing a chaste kiss when I felt his arm tighten its grip around my waist, startling me. I opened my eyes to see Edward's piercing liquid emerald eyes staring at me with want as he kisses me back, placing open kisses on my lips as he ran his hand over my hair. Simultaneously igniting a warmth in me that only grows every time I'm with him. I lean away, breaking our kiss to see the widest cockiest grin creeping on his lips.

"Good morning, love."

I blush as a sudden wave of embarrassment comes over me. I rest my head against his chest as I whisper, "good morning, Edward."

I can hear his velvety chuckle rumble through his chest as Edward strokes my hair with his other hand all while never letting me go. I watched his gaze shift from my eyes and up to my forehead and for a moment I saw a hint of sadness in his eyes. He ran the back of his knuckles over the side of my cheek while avoiding the bruises that had accumulated last night and I leaned into his touch as I held his hand in mine and closed my eyes.

"How are you feeling? Did you sleep well?" He asked me. I smiled and nodded, opening my eyes.

"I slept better than I ever thought I could." It was true. I hadn't even had a nightmare threatening to invade my dreams at all last night and I think a big part may have been because of Edward being here by my side. "What about you?"

He grinned and shifted on his side, taking me along with him, "Hm, I think we may have to do this more often seeing as how I absolutely love waking up next to you in the morning."

I smiled at his teasing tone and rested my head on my shoulder. We stared at one another in comfortable silence. I inched closer to him as his legs shifted in between mine and allowing me to feel the incredible hard on that he had going on under his boxers. I blushed even harder as I remembered the first time I felt how excited he had gotten when we were kissing on the couch—after he made me reach the heavens as I orgasmed. Sensing my embarrassment Edward sighed before he started leaning back so that I wouldn't feel his member against my leg anymore.

"I'm sorry if I'm making you uncomfortable, Bella, I just can't seem to control myself when I'm around you." He said as he apologized for making me feel warm and excited to be by his side. I shook my head and scooted closer to him.

"You're not making me uncomfortable Edward. I want to be with you," I saw as I look up at him through hooded lashes. "I'm just not so sure if I can give you what you want."

Edward leaned down to rest his forehead against mine and smiled in the most gorgeous way.

"Bella you are everything that I want. Never doubt that."

I bit my lip as his serious tone sent goosebumps throughout my whole body, "I just don't know...how to do anything with a man. Intimately I mean. What if that turns out to be a problem for you how inexperienced I am?"

He looked down at my lips and brought his hand up to press his thumb against my bottom lip and releasing it from the hold my tooth had on it before trapping it in his lips. It started out slow at first, and then more passionate as he rolled us to the side and on top of me. His lips parted and his teeth bit on my lip, making me sigh as my heart rate spiked up. I felt Edward's tongue flick against my bottom lip to proceed to languidly tease me. I felt my breathing pick up as I felt all warm again in the pit of my stomach. His kiss was deep and full of passion that only made my panties beginning to get wet at this point. I moaned as he moved down to place open mouthed kisses along my cheek, to my jaw line, and down my neck, slightly grazing the skin with his teeth. I tangled my fingers in his messy sex hair and pulled on it. Eliciting a groan from him as he continued kissing me until he made it down to my chest and then he stopped and looked up at me. I only realized that I wanted him to continue when a small whimper escaped my lips which only made him grin.

"If only you knew what you did to me Bella you would know that there isn't a fucking thing that I could ever have a problem with when we're together" he said as he settled his lower half against my stomach, proving his point and making me blush even more than I thought I possibly could. "Besides knowing that you've never had sex with another guy before is incredibly hot, baby, you have no idea. You do things to me that no one ever has. And whatever you don't know how to do, I'll teach you if you want but only if you're comfortable with it. Don't ever feel like you have to do anything if you aren't sure."

I knew he was being honest with me and I wanted to truly let myself believe in his words and trust that I could be enough for him. I bit my lip and nodded before I slid my arms around his back and pulled him to me.

"I want to be with you Edward I know that for sure but I just don't think I'm ready to have sex yet. But maybe we can take things slow?" I asked nervously and he simply smiles as he kisses me once more.

"We can if you want. You're in control, Bella, so you tell me how far you want to go and that's what we'll do." My heart skipped at his words. He had no idea how good it felt to have him convey his trust and understanding to me and that he wasn't the least bit mad or turned off by my insecurities. Knowing that I could control how far we could go now made me feel an unbelievable amount of relief and Edward knew that was what I needed the most in this moment.

We continued kissing, feeling each other as if we needed to remember each curve and muscle. Edward's hands traveled down to my breasts and gently massaged them and I moaned into his neck just as he lowered himself against me. I felt my breath catch in my lungs as I felt his hard on rest right onto my core and I swore I heard a growl.

"Edward..." I said as I found it harder and harder to control my desire for him and even moved my hips slightly to feel his erection even more which must have felt really good for him as his breathing hitched as he slowly sat back, looking fully alert with what we were so close to doing. He looked down at my shirt and his fingers traced the bottom of my tank top; looking up at me for permission or to see if there was any hesitation on my part. I nodded at him breathlessly before his hands made their way under my shirt and up to my breasts; palming them with his large elegant hands.

"God you're so beautiful." His voice sounded so low that it made me squirm under his gaze.

In my embarrassment and before I could say anything he took my nipples in between his fingers and teased me, instanly making my nipples harden under his touch. I gasped at the sensations he elicited from within me as I ran my hands into his hair and pulled him up to kiss me with urgency. I moaned into his mouth just as things were about to take another step further when we heard a loud clanking sound coming from the other side of my bedroom door followed by an energetic giggle. We suddenly stopped our movements and looked towards the noise only to find each other's eyes again and sigh.

"Alice." We said simultaneously as we could recognize the pixie's voice anywhere. Looks like Jasper isn't the only one cockblocking us lately. Maybe it was better that way though.

We both chuckled as I started sitting up, "we better get out there before Alice or Jasper walk in on our activities." I said to which Edward swiftly rolled off to the side while taking me with him.

"Normally I'd say I don't give a shit who sees us but I'd rather not have my little sister and your brother have a memory that will scar them for life. And us for that matter." His velvety voice chuckled into my ear as we started walking towards the bathroom to get ready to face the two outside.

After taking turns washing up and changing into more decent clothes Edward and I walked out of my room. It's not that I didn't want to shower with Edward or anything but I was still trying to take things slowly and if I went in there with him and saw him completely naked I don't know what would have happened.

If what you did five minutes ago was considered slow to you then you must be in another time zone, Swan.

We walked out to be met by the sweet smell of pancakes and coffee followed by Alice's giggling and Jasper's smooth voice soundly light and carefree. We made it around the corner to the bar and saw Jasper and Alice standing extra close to one another as he plated up pancakes into a plate that she was holding for him. I smiled at the cute scene being displayed although when I looked over to Edward he was rolling his eyes but I could see the corners of his mouth quirking upwards slightly.

"Good morning, you two." I said to make sure the lovebirds didn't end up making out over the plate of pancakes. Alice whipped her head around and as soon as she saw both Edward and I standing next to each other she started squealing and danced her way around the bar to give us each a big hug, especially being more careful with me this time seeing as how I was still sore from the injuries I had.

"Good morning Bella! Eddie! I didn't expect to see you here so early in the morning!" She teased, obviously knowing that Edward had spent the night here no doubt. He rolled his eyes again and this time he saw me looking down as I felt embarrassed that not only Alice but Jasper knew I had spent the night with Edward. I looked back up when I felt his hand grasp mine and gave it a gentle squeeze.

"I just knew you would be hovering over Bella every chance you got now that you're dating Whitlock over there so I came to save her from your wrath, Tink." He said as he looked over and nodded at Jasper who was scratching his head, trying to shake away the awkwardness he was feeling no doubt—much like me. I smiled as Alice told him it was too late now that we were becoming good friends before I walked over to Jasper and looked at the plate of fluffy pancakes that he was still holding in his hand and took it.

"Breakfast looks delicious. Looks like Alice really lucked out on you." I said with a smile. Jasper stared at me with his sapphire eyes intently, as if trying to see if I was telling as fine as I was letting on this morning before he glanced over my shoulder towards Edward and Alice.

"Did you get any rest? I left you all by yourself last night and barely checked up on you, I'm sorry Bells." He said to me in a tone filled with lament as he grabbed four mugs from the cupboard and began pouring hot coffee into them.

I patted his shoulder and leaned closer to him, "It's okay Jazz. I'm okay," I answered as I looked behind me to see Edward shinning a bright smile down on Alice who was explaining something to him excitedly. The sight made me smile. "I have a slight headache but nothing I haven't had to deal with before. I'm doing better than yesterday."

Jasper looked over to me and placed his hand against my cheek where the purple and black bruises still were.

"Those aren't going to disappear anytime soon, maybe we should get you to a hospital to check on you." I shook my head at my best friend's stubbornness and he did the same seeing as we were both equally stubborn.

"I'm feeling better besides it's nothing some time and painkillers can't fix. If anything changes you know I'll be the first to let you know, Jazz." Jasper furrowed his brows, obviously not believing me but I knew how he was so I let him check my bruised forehead and cheek until he was satisfied. He still held his frown and I decided to playfully flick him in the forehead and surprising him out of his brooding, "you know they say that the more you frown the quicker you get wrinkles."

He rolled his eyes at me and tried not to smile as he plated up the scrambled eggs he had cooked up, "I'm glad you feel good enough to throw jokes at me but I'll remind you that Carlisle said to take it easy today—"

"Jasper—"

"If you want to jump back into work you'll have to wait until you don't have any headaches or dizziness, that's the deal remember?" He said quickly as he knew I was going to argue that I was perfectly fine to get back to work but I also kept my word when I made a deal with the two most overprotective men in my life. Well three if you're counting Edward now.

I huffed, "Fine but I'm not staying locked up in the house tomorrow either all day. I'll work at the desk with Denali for a couple of hours only for tomorrow. Deal?" I said as I stuck my hand out for Jasper to shake it which only made him laugh as he ruffled my hair before stealing the plate of pancakes from my hand.

"Alright stubborn girl."

"Hey those are mine!" I declared as I pouted like a child and took off after him which he started running around the breakfast bar.

"Oh, I think you're mistaken. It's usually the one who makes the pancakes who gets first dibs." He smirks at me, making Alice laugh at us for acting like a couple of immature kids. Jasper was slightly distracted by giving Alice a sweet look and I took the opportunity to steal the plate again. I twirled around, losing my footing and thought for sure I would fall but thankfully a pair of strong arms held me by my waist to steady me. I looked up and saw Edward grinning at me and I had to look away from him before I started daydreaming about him again and ended up blushing for everyone to see.


The rest of the morning the four of us sat down and had breakfast over conversation. Alice told us about her job and how passionately she worked to help victims and saved lives. It was truly impressive and admirable how dedicated the pixie was and it only made me understand what Jasper liked so much about her—apart from her charismatic personality and beautiful looks. She told us about the team of fire fighters she and her partner worked with and how they all worked as a family much like Jazz and I did at Intelligence. Alice talked about how recently she told this new guy off who had transferred into the fire house to get off his high horse after he contradicted one of Sam's orders while out on the job. So the pixie was pretty feisty when she wanted to be too it seems. I think Rosalie could really like hanging out with Alice.

As for that new guy Alice was referring to—Jasper, Edward, and I all understood perfectly well what it was like to work with jerks as Diego came to mind. Jasper didn't hesitate to let us know how annoyed he has been getting with Diego over the past week and from the looks of it neither of them plan on being friends anytime soon. I remembered the strange comments he made towards me on the occasion we had to work together and the glares he gave me but other than that I think that if I keep a distance it'll be alright. But that was a matter that I would keep to myself for the time being. No use in stirring up more trouble that he's worth.

While Alice and I went into the kitchen to wash the dishes I looked over my shoulder to see Edward and Jasper sitting on the couch watching tv, only a word or two traveling between them. I smiled that at least they weren't glaring at each other like the other night at Paul's. I hoped that they would become good friends because I'd want nothing more than to spend even more time with them like this.

"They'll get along soon enough, Bella." My attention was brought back by Alice as she took the wet plate that I had just finished washing from my hands and began drying it with a towel. "I have a feeling they'll really become the best of friends. They just have to grow up a little—like most men do."

I chuckled, "Knowing Jasper? It'll probably take a while before he fully accepts that I'm in a relationship now." Realizing how that must have sounded I looked at the pixie's smiling expression. "Sorry that came out totally wrong. Jasper and I are-"

"Don't apologize, silly girl! Jasper has told me all about the two of you and all the trouble you two would get in when you were kids. I see how much Jazz loves you and I also see how serious he is about protecting you. It's the exact same way Edward acts with me," she says as she looks over to the boys and I swore I could see all the love in the world through her eyes as she stares at the boys. "It's good to have an older brother to look out for you."

"As annoying as they may be sometimes." I finish for her, making the both of us laugh.

"Right you are, Bella!" We both laughed lightly until the boys made their way over to us—curious to know what we were finding so amusing which only made us giggle even more.

Morning rolled into the afternoon and it was time for the boys to go to the station to meet with Denali about a new case while Alice offered to stay and check on my injuries to make sure nothing was out of the ordinary. I was prepared to decline but both Jasper and Edward looked like they would never let me hear the end of it if I didn't comply as well as Alice's persuasive tone that made me feel bad for trying to turn the pixie down—so I reluctantly agreed to save myself.

After that Jasper and Alice disappeared into his room to get ready to head out while I walked Edward to the door.

"Be careful out there while I'm gone, partner." I said as I held onto the door, watching him walk out into the hallway. I smiled when he turned and held my hand, lacing his long elegant fingers through mine to pull me closer to him.

"I will if you don't push yourself too hard today," he says as he leans down to plant a chaste kiss on my lips, "I'll call you tonight to check on you when I get the chance. Don't do anything too wild while I'm gone."

I felt him grin as he kissed me once more before leaning back.

"I love you."

I bit my lip, "I love you too." And with that I slowly let go of his hand to let him head down the hall and closed the door behind me.

Still smiling like a fool as I walked back into the living room to sit on the couch and switched on the tv to watch this morning's news. I rarely watched the news since it was filled with more political gossip and devasting situations going on around the world but whenever I was practically forced into 'house arrest' I found that it was easier to keep up with everything this way.

"Lock the door while I'm gone okay?" I looked over my shoulder from the sofa and nodded at Jasper he stood by the hallway, pulling his jacket on. He sighed and I knew what he was going to suggest just by the hesitant look he gave me.

"No, Jazz I'll be alright on my own for a couple of hours don't worry."

He pinched the bridge of his nose still unsure,"Are you sure Bella? I can call Carlisle and-"

"Oh Jazzy if Bella says she's alright until you come back then she's alright! Stop fussing!" Alice says jokingly as she walks up to him all dressed in her frilly blue dress and leggings. I gave Jasper a pointed look and he only grimaced at the both of us.

"Fine, I give up," he said as he held his hands up in surrender. And just as he was about to be pulled out of the apartment by Alice he remembered something, "also, call mom okay? She's been really worried."

"What? Did you tell her?" I couldn't hid the amount of disbelief in my voice this time.

"No, Carlisle did apparently because she's been calling and sending messages to me all day to see if you were okay. Just call her, Bells. You know she worries more than I do." Yeah if that were even possible you old man.

I smiled and nodded, "I will. Be careful you two."

The two leave the apartment, leaving me alone in the silence of my apartment. Standing up and heading into my room I went to retrieve my cell phone from the nightstand, walked over to the front door and locking it before heading back to the love seat. I look at my phone and see a couple of missed calls and sigh as I scroll through my phone until I find the one person I wanted to talk to the most right now. I waited a total of two rings before I heard the most gentle and melodic voice grace my ears.

"Hello?"

"Hi mom."

"Oh Bella! I've been so worried about you sweetheart! How are you? Are you hurt badly? Did you go to the hospital yet?"

I giggled at Esme's many questions as she was obviously worried sick about me, much like she always does when it comes to Jasper and me. But god how much I've missed her.

"I'm sorry for worrying you so much. Please don't worry I'm doing much better today and it wasn't a life threatening injury. Just a couple of bruises here and there. Jasper got his girlfriend to patch me up last night so I'm covered."

"Are you sure? I can drive to the city and stay with you until you feel better. I hope you're not pushing yourself too hard now if you're in pain." That's Esme for you. She's always putting others before her. Always so full of love and compassion for us and willing to put her life on pause just so that she can help those in need. It was one of the things that made me believe people were still truly good and pure.

"No you don't have to do all that, mom. I'm being looked after by so many people, I can barely leave the apartment now. There's really no need to worry. Besides I really want to drive down to see you with Jazz sometime this weekend. I miss you..."

"Oh, sweetheart I miss you so much. You know I'm here whenever you need me." I could hear the emotion in her voice and it almost made me tear up as I realized how much I missed my adoptive mother.

"I'm sorry to change the subject so quickly but...did you just say that Jasper has a girlfriend?"

"Yeah, her name is Alice, she's a paramedic working at the boys' firehouse, and she's really sweet and bubbly like you. I have a feeling you'd like her." I giggled at the amount of shock and enthusiasm in her voice.

"Oh! That's just so good to hear that he found someone! And if you like her then that must mean she has to be a good girl. You should tell Jasper to bring her along when you come to visit!"

We continued catching up on everything that has been going on, how Emmett and Rosalie have been, Jasper's new partner—sparing a few minor details, and my new partner. Which based on how Esme's voice suddenly filled with both excitement and worry, I'd say Carlisle filled her in on my new relationship with Edward—well the only real relationship I've ever been in.

"So what is this young man like?"

I bit my lip nervously as I felt the incredible urge to tell Esme everything but also hesitant as I felt nervous to know what my adoptive parents think, "Edward is really...nice. Actually apart from Jasper I think he's the only other partner that I've actually trusted to watch my back."

"Hm, is that so? Might there be any other reason you trust this young man?"

I couldn't help but blush just as I breathed out, "there might be..."

"There is?" I could hear a slight amount of curiosity from her gentle voice.

"Well, Edward is actually really great, mom. He's become a really great partner and a good friend."

"Is he just a friend?" I could almost hear a smile this time. I chuckled nervously as I fidgeted with the remote in my hand.

"No, he's not just a friend anymore. I think yesterday we may have become more than that."

"Oh sweetheart,"

"W-we haven't done anything...yet. We both agreed to take things slow so you don't have to worry about that."

"Bella," I heard her gently interrupting me from rambling on like a fool, "all I want for you is to be happy. If this boy makes you happy then that's all that matters. And if you say that you trust Edward and that he's good to you then that is enough to put my mind at ease."

I was surprised—I would have thought Esme would worry or tell me to be careful like Carlisle and Jasper have. But I was so happy that she was so open and accepting with me that I felt my bundle of nerves to unravel now. I guess that's the effect Esme has on me; on everyone.

"You should probably tell dad and Jazz to take lessons from you. They've been watching Edward like hawks ever since he transferred here."

She giggled, "well that's what men do—they have to protect everyone and everything they care about because if they don't their egos will drive them mad. No matter how much we protest. I'm very happy they're looking after you though, it puts my mind at ease."

"Thanks mom."

"I would like to meet this young man who somehow managed to catch your heart as well as Jasper's girlfriend!"

We continued chatting away the rest of the afternoon and somehow I felt as if all my worries and anxiety was washed away in one instant and it was all thanks to Esme. And in a way I now felt that I could completely allow myself to be happy as everything is in this one moment. And in my own content of sharing my happiness with my mother, I failed to pay attention to the television as I barely heard the name 'Volturi' being announced by a reporter.

~Edward~

Today consisted of possibly one of the best mornings I've ever had. I slept soundly with Bella in my arms until I felt her delicate hand run over my head and her soft lips press up against mine and I instantly felt a surge of electricity rush through me and instantly waking me up. Waking up to Bella's beautiful eyes and sweet blush did all kinds of things to me and I wanted her with everything I had but I knew I needed her to know that she was in charge of how far we would take things now. She was scared of starting a more intimate relationship than we already had and I understood why now so there was no way in hell that I would ruin the trust she had placed in me because of my desire for her.

We kissed tenderly and while my dick communicated how desperately I wanted to feel her until she screamed my name; my rationality told me to pull back on the reigns just as I felt her breasts in my hands. Of course we were interrupted by a loud noise coming from the other room and my sister's giggling like a little girl made us both stop what we were about to do. Man, you really don't get a break do you?

I knew it was going to be a rough couple of days again as I would have another serious case of blue balls but what can I say? I'm content with just having Bella in my arms and that's all that matters right now. I wanted nothing more than to take a shower with Bella and see her bare naked skin with my own eyes, however, she suggested I go in first to wash up and I could tell she was nervous so I decided we would do that another time.

We had breakfast with my sister and Whitlock which at first I found to be rather awkward but seeing how carefree Bella and Whitlock were teasing each other—I didn't mind seeing the girl I loved being happy and smiling. Even Alice looked happier than I ever thought was possible and I had to admit I appreciated Whitlock for being the main cause for her joy.

After we finished breakfast and the girl's insisted on cleaning up, Alice suggested that Whitlock and I go watch some tv together. As if we honestly wanted to do anything other that sit on a sofa and pretend to be having anything other than awkward small talk. Way to go Alice.

I constantly felt myself glancing over to Bella as she and Alice were taking the dishes to the kitchen, giggling about something Alice said. Call me a sap but it made me happy to see my girl and my little sister getting along so easily. I smiled inwardly when I looked over to Whitlock who was doing the exact same thing I had just done.

"It's good to see her so happy." He said in a hushed tone, while attempting to hide his smile by scratching his nose.

"Yeah, it is."

"She's a really good girl." I turned my head towards Whitlock who now had a serious expression on his face. I ran my fingers through my hair and nodded.

"She is."

"What I mean is, whatever you two decide on doing together is entirely up to you now but just take care of her alright? She's a special girl who deserves to be treated right. And also, I'd hate to have to kick my girlfriend's brother's ass if you screw up." He grinned.

I blinked once as I processed what he said and chuckled, "Same goes to you then, cowboy."

Just then the girls began giggling loudly and both Whitlock and I quirked our brows as we grew curious to know what they found so amusing which only made them laugh even more. Normally I found it annoying to hear my sister busting my chops everytime but seeing Bella giggling did unexpected things to me and there was no way in hell that I'd ever let anyone make her smile disappear again.

I drove to the station shortly after kissing Bella goodbye to meet up with Denali and the rest of the team to receive another assignment. When I got to the station I could see everyone's attention focused on the tv we had to watch the news upstairs. I walked over to McCarty and Hale, noticing their unusually serious expressions, especially Emmett's.

"What's going on?"

He turns and looks slightly surprised to see me before shaking his head, "looks like news of Caius's death travelled fast. The Volturi seem to be taking his loss rather personally."

I furrow my brows as I look at the screen to see a news reporter standing in front of what looks like where an execution had taken place near the Bronx and the words 'traitors' written in white paint on the brick wall. A photo of a man who I had seen in the apartment the other night was posted on the upper right corner and the name Demetri was revealed as the victim, along with other men who must have worked for Caius. I looked over towards Cullen and he caught my gaze before nodding for me to join him in his office. Without a word being said I closed the door to his office behind me and leaned against the frame as I waited for him to speak.

"Looks like the intel you delivered when you were transferred was accurate until now." He says with a sigh as he sits down in his chair. I crossed my arms over my chest as he looked up at me.

"They were still in Italy when my informant gave me the intel—they weren't supposed to return to the United States until next spring after they settled their business with the Dacia mob." I said bemused and knowing that plans of capturing the Volturi wouldn't go as we'd hoped now that things had taken an unexpected turn. Carlisle nodded as he drummed his fingers on the desk, silently contemplating.

"If they keep going around the city executing everyone involved with Caius's death then we might be able to pinpoint where they're hiding or at least what their next moves will be."

"Do you think they'll come after the authorities then?"

"No, The Volturi have a strict hierarchy and killing cops would go against their very defined rules—the FBI would be on their tails as soon as they did. For now just go about other assignments with the team until then." I nod and turn around to open the door when I heard him speak again.

"Masen," I face him and see Cullen's face riddled with concern, "don't discuss this with Bella or Jasper yet. I want everyone to be here when we get the go ahead to begin moving in on the Volturi. Until then there's no point in raising worry for anyone in the department."

This sort of took me by surprise that the Sergeant would tell me something like this but at the same time I guessed he didn't want to involve anyone unless it would be for a mission. I remembered everything Bella told me about her past and how Cullen saved not only her but Whitlock as well. I respected the man more than words could express even more after hearing of his selflessness to take in two kids who needed salvation and not to mention that he was technically Bella's father so it would be pretty difficult to dislike the man from now on. I could understand why he was so hesitant whenever it came to me working with Bella however, the fact that he was somewhat displaying his trust in me now made me wonder if he was starting to accept my relationship with his daughter.

"Yes, sir." I slightly grin before walking back out of his office.


The day turned out to be unexpectedly long as I slowly grew impatient to see Bella again—wondering how she must be feeling.

Sergeant Cullen paired me up with Whitlock and Diego this time and I tried everything in my power to not jump out of the Dodge everytime Diego would open his mouth to make a snide comment about Whitlock or me. I had nothing against Jasper, seeing as how he too looked like he wanted to beat the living shit out of the ass any day now but that didn't stop me from wishing I was doing paperwork behind a desk instead of hearing the two quarreling all day. I kind of felt bad for him seeing as I was the one who separated him from Bella in the first place—it seemed like Jasper didn't cope well with stress and anger everyday and I didn't blame him. It did give me a chance to see him for how he truly was, not just an overprotective man to Bella but also as a person. Which I started to find that he was a good guy with a lot of empathy for victims we had to work with—just like Bella, and he always tried to defuse a situation with his words instead of with threats. Unlike Diego.

After taking some junkies into custody for questioning I heard Diego open his fat mouth again.

"Nice job on actually doing something this time Whitlock. Looks like being partnered up with me has taught you a thing or two about being a good detective." I rolled me eyes as I led the last of the junkies into a cell to sleep off his high until tomorrow. Jasper sighed and muttered something as he chose to ignore his taunt which didn't please Diego one bit as he desperately wanted to get a reaction from his partner.

"You know I was meaning to ask you how Swan's doing," that was enough to make us both stop walking down the hall and turn around instantly. I furrowed my brows, waiting for what the ass would say next and I could see Whitlock ahead of me practically staring daggers at him. I bet that was the exact reaction he wanted as he gave a smug smirk. I could practically see what sort of messed up ideas he had in that filthy head of his as he made a disgusting noise that should have been a sigh. I seriously wanted to kill the bastard at this point and I could tell Jasper did too based on how tense his stance was. "That beating she took must've really messed up her pretty little face."

"Diego." I could hear the deadly warning in Jasper's voice that told not only me but everyone not to fuck with him right now.

"Watch what you say Diego or I swear to God, you'll regret it." I said to hopefully defuse the tension and steer this situation in another way before things got out of hand.

"What? I'm just saying I'm sure she must be feeling shitty whenever she sees her face all fucked up like that. I mean, no offense but those bruises must look nasty if she didn't show her face here today! I wouldn't blame Masen if he had his fill of her already. I mean I wouldn't want to fuck someone looking like that either-"

I saw red. No I saw fucking black at this point. I couldn't even register how quickly I was moving as I only wanted to knock the mother fucker in his foul mouth until he looked worse than Bella's injuries did. I was about to as I reached for him when Jasper beat me to it as he was closer to him.

"Shut you fucking mouth!" He yelled as he shoved Diego against the wall harshly. Jasper towered over him in an intimidating way, not wavering at all as he continued glaring at the punk but Diego just scoffed and smiled unamused.

"Oh you want to fight now, cowboy? Well come on then you little bitch!" He retorted by pushing Jasper back and stepped away from the wall. I moved closer to them and tried to stop them as Jasper looked like he was about to rip Diego's head clean off in the hallway.

"Diego back the fuck off before I knock you out! Jasper that's enough!" I said in a commanding voice I rarely used outside of the army. I thought things would get even more physcial and I would have to punch Diego's teeth in but luckily Emmett showed up just as Diego readied his fists to throw a punch.

"Whoa! What the hell is going on?" He said as the bear quickly strides over and held one burly arm to hold Diego back while I stood next to Jasper, who was still glaring at him.

"Whitlock, calm down. If you fight with this asswipe now it could be you who gets suspended. Don't let Bella feel guilty for something like that because you let your anger towards him control you." I said quickly as he breathed heavily, trying to simmer his burning indignation.

"What is going on gentlemen?" We all stopped moving when the Sergeant's voice spoke up from behind us. He looked like he was pissed off as well and I wouldn't be surprised if he kicked all of our asses. He walked closer to us, giving Jasper a look before looking towards us. Emmett still held his arm out to hold Diego until he visibly backed off when Cullen walked up. "Well? Is someone going to explain why you're all fighting in my department? Detective Whitlock?"

"We weren't really fighting. Whitlock and I had a disagreement, Sarge and I may have taken my joke a little too far. Sorry about that man." Diego cut in before Jasper could speak up and gave a shit apology to which I gave him a glare. I could tell Cullen didn't believe him one bit as he turned his attention over to Jasper; the two sharing a look that I couldn't decipher until Cullen spoke again.

"The next time I walk into my department I don't want to see anyone fighting or disrespecting each other. I don't care if you do it outside until you've beaten each other to a pulp but when you're here you are to work together and watch each other's backs. Don't do it here and involve everyone else in your disagreement. Am I being clear?" I could practically feel the man's disappointment and frustration radiating off of me and I would seriously hate it if my father ever spoke to me in that tone. Although I could sense it was mainly his disappointment in the way Diego was behaving with Jasper than anything else. I could see Jasper in his chagrin tuck his hands into his pockets and look down at his boots and nod silently, knowing that Cullen's eyes were directly on him.

"Yes, sir. It won't happen again." Diego said as if nothing had happened before turning around and walking away, towards the locker rooms.

I looked up at Emmett and we both breathed a sigh of relief before the Sergeant spoke again.

"Jasper, meet me in my office when you've finished submitting the assignment's paperwork for today." He said in a hushed tone and turned around walking away from us without another word being said. Leaving us in complete silence.

"Well shit! If I had known you guys were starting a fight club I would have been first in line! Didn't peg you as the first to explode on Diego like that, way to go Jazz." Emmett joked, feeling awkward at the scene that had been made here not five minutes ago.

Looking back up still slightly pissed off Jasper spoke, "I swear I think I might end up killing him if this keeps up. Sorry for losing it like that guys."

I grinned at how childish Whitlock looks right now after getting into trouble with Cullen. I clasp my hand over his shoulder and chuckle.

"I was right behind you until you beat me to it. Next time you'll have to let me kick some ass to defend my girl or she'll think I'm a fucking coward." That made him chuckle right back as his blue eyes finally looked back up at us.

"Yeah, you kinda did look like one." I gave him a light push with my arm and we both grinned when we see how lost Emmett looks.

"Wait...did Diego say anything about Bella B? What did he say? I swear I'll join in on kicking his scrawny ass next time!" The bear said as he cracked his knuckles.

"Whatever you say big guy. Hell let's get Rosalie, Clearwater, and even Benji in on it too—we'll make it a party." Jasper said which only made the three of us laugh at the mental image.


I finally got off work at around 11 o'clock and went straight to my car and immediately pulled out my cellphone to give Bella a text. I wanted to call her to hear her sweet voice but if she had fallen asleep already I didn't want to wake her.

Hey baby, I just got off of work. How are you feeling?

I waited for a couple of minutes before figuring that she had fallen fast asleep and decided to drive home. I was already halfway to my apartment when I heard my phone buzz. I took the opportunity when I came to a stop in traffic to look at it and grinned when I saw that my Bella had replied to my message.

Hi, sorry I dozed off for a little while. I'm feeling a little sore here and there but I'm okay. How was your day?

It was rather...uneventful to say the least.

Must've been because your partner wasn't there to spice things up haha.

I tried not to laugh at her little joke and lost myself in our conversation until I heard someone impatiently honk at me right when the light barely turned green and vehicles were moving at the speed of snails. New York traffic can drive anyone into being an insane asshole.

I sent her another message when I parked the car in the driveway of my apartment and never took my eyes off of the screen of my phone as we continued sending messages back and forth.

I hope my bodyguards let me go to work soon so I can see you.

You know we don't have to see each other just at work anymore right? I have the day off tomorrow anyways, how about I come pick you up in the afternoon and we go out for a bit?

I suddenly felt really stupid for suggesting something like that as I pretty much forgot that she probably wouldn't feel like going out if she didn't feel good about her injuries but to me she was fucking beautiful either way although it pains me to see her like that as it reminds me of what could have happened if Caius had gotten his way with her. I shudder at the thought as I made my way inside my apartment. I set my phone and badge down on the kitchen counter and walked over to the fridge to get a beer when I heard the buzz again.

That sounds great actually. I'm sort of going crazy being cooped up in the apartment even after reading all day, I'm not used to being home without working.

Damn you weren't kidding when you said you were a workaholic, Bella. Sadly for you, there will be no work involved tomorrow when you're with me. So it's settled, I'll swing by around 2 o'clock but until then get some rest baby.

You too, Edward. Good night.

Good night love.

After Bella told me she was going to bed I went upstairs to take a hot shower and climbed into bed shortly after watching the tv for a bit. The entire time my thoughts circled back to Bella—thinking about everything that we had discussed last night. I still felt an unbelievable amount of anger towards The Alistair's and I hoped that Aro along with his son would stay as far away from Bella and Jasper as humanly possible. And then right when I started dozing off in my large empty bed—something in the back of my mind ate at me, not allowing me to rest until I found out everything about the pig who hurt her. I sat up and walked down stairs to retrieve my laptop from my desk and looked up the name 'James Alistair' on the internet browser and thus investigated everything I could possibly find about the bastard. Before going to bed and being incredibly pissed off, I sent an email to Jenks with the fucker's name, a photo, and an article of the last whereabouts the police had found on him and asked him to look into James until he was found. I would not just sit by and let Bella meet face to face with this man without him being put in a jail cell first and let him rot along with the rest of the lowlife criminals who enjoy harming children and women. And if we did find him—he better pray when he sees me because I wouldn't hold back if he put up a fight.

Oooooh, Edward is serious about protecting his girl! And what about Jasper defending his little sister like that huh? I have two big brothers and three cousins who are all boys (we all grew up together and lived under the same roof when we were kids) and they are all constantly being overprotective of me (I guess you could say that's where I was inspired haha)

Haha I hope you all enjoyed the chapter! I had fun writing it :) and feel free to leave a review if you want!

Also if any of you are interested in reading any stories that I personally love since I joined Fanfiction let me know and I'll include a little list in the next chapter if you want to hear why I love them so much haha!