Chapter 10 | The Love Day

BPOV

Days turned into weeks and before I knew it, February was right before me. I had settled into a comfortable routine of work, church, fun, and of course, Edward. Our days were loaded with sweet texts throughout the day, nightly phone calls, and a new weekly date experience. Each time, we took turns creating a fun time for one another and always kept it interesting. From camping, seeing The Phantom of the Opera, movies, cooking together and sporting events, every moment was something special. Even though my turn was up, my guy had insisted on letting it be his since Valentine's Day was a few days away. Since it landed on a Tuesday this year, Edward had prepared me for a weekend celebration surprise. He was also being very quiet on the details. All I knew what that I had to pack a bag for the trip and to enjoy it.

Stores were booming with locals' business as they garnered gifts for the people they loved. Restaurants were booked with reservations for the most romantic time of the year. I didn't have to stress too much of Edward's gift. He assured me that I didn't have to buy him anything. But, I wouldn't do that! So instead, I created a gift basket with some of his favorite things: tickets for the Houston Livestock & Rodeo over spring break, Pentatonix concert tickets for the summer, new Dallas Cowboys & Texas Ranger team gear, and a photo album of our pictures so far.

*Knock knock*

"Come in!"

"Hey Bella," my assistant Charlotte, said. "Did you need anything else for the presentation next week?"

"Nope, we're good! Thanks for all your help!" She was not only my assistant, but became a fast friend when I started working here. Char reminded me of a mix between Ang and Rose. Tall with model-like appearances, but had the patience and gentleness of Angela.

"So, where's my favorite person taking you for the love day?"

We both cracked up laughing at our inside joke. When you work in healthcare, everyone knows everyone. Edward had also had more than his fair share of appearances at my office.

"He's being so secretive! All I know is that we're going to be gone for the next three days, it's an "unplugged" time and to pack."

"Sounds like it's going to be one big surprise! I want to hear all about it on Monday! Have a great time friend!"

"You'll be one of the first to know. See you next week."

As I started to shut down my computer and gather my things to take home, I checked my phone for any messages. I had been so busy today, that I didn't even notice the one from Edward.

Hi beautiful! I hope you're having a great day. I can't WAIT to spend the weekend with you. Drive safely back home and I'll see you at 5. I love you

That man knows how to warm my heart. The traffic isn't too heavy yet and I'm blasting Lady Gaga in my car. With the windows rolled down, it's a typical Texas winter afternoon. I pull into the driveway and notice that Ang and Ali have beat me home.

"SISTERS!" I call out. Angela emerges from the kitchen with a fruit bowl in her hands and I notice her duffel bag by the front door. I swipe a piece before she slaps my hands away.

"Ali has been DYING for you to get here. We're in on the trip details so she's prepared to help you pack."

"Why am I not surprised? What are you and Ben doing?"

"He's taking me to Kemah boardwalk! I've never been and he says I'll love it."

"Ang! That's awesome! And he's right – it's a great place to spend time."

"I'm headed to his place now so we can head out….see you on Monday! Bye Ali!"

"Have fun and don't go wild", screamed Alice.

Angela smirked and shook her head at me.

After she left, I went upstairs to take a quick shower, shave and to wash my face. I wrapped myself up in a towel and walked back to my room. Alice didn't even notice me walk in and she worked her away around my room.

"Hey sis! I hope you don't mind that I picked out your clothes. Of course, you can always veto anything."

"No, I really appreciate it. Since I'm the only one who seems to not be included in on the little secret, I would rather be safe than sorry."

"I have three casual outfits for you – one for tonight, Saturday afternoon, and for on the one back home. Also, two dressy outfits for tomorrow night and church services. Plus, all the essential undergarments, jewelry, makeup, shoes and sleepwear."

I didn't know what to say. Edward had really gone through a lot to put this all together.

"Thank you Alice so much! I know this is something you love to do and well, you saved me from having to pack. I'm not keeping you from Jas, am I?" She pulled me in for a hug and picked up my outfit for tonight.

"Not at all! Something came up on his end, so we aren't leaving for San Antonio until tomorrow." Alice knew where she was going but had no idea that she'd be coming back engaged! Jasper had spoken with Alice's parents as well Angela and I, on new year's day, for her hand in marriage. We thought it was incredibly sweet that he asked us and helped with the picking of the ring.

I put on the sleeveless hi-low purple top, skinny jeans, black booties, and my dangly black earrings that Ali suggested. I not only felt good but looked good as well. I didn't even fight Alice on doing my hair and makeup. She kept it simple and put my hair into a princess style halo braided crown.

"Bella, she squealed, you look absolutely AMAZING! Edward won't be able to keep his hands off!"

"Hahaha oh Ali! He's going to have to control himself. No ding without a ring!"

"I know, I know. Same goes for Jas and I! And Ang and Ben." Us three ladies all wanted to wait for marriage to have sex. It wasn't some crazy pact or just a religious tradition, it was knowing that our first times would be special with our future husbands. We were so blessed to have men who never pushed us and respected our morals. Thankfully Ali and Ang never got to physical with anyone they dated. I had definitely done things with Jacob that I now regretted. But at least I saved the biggest gift for Edward.

"Thanks again, Al! I love ya!"

"Love you too sis! I'll let you finish up and let Edward in when he comes.

I gathered my clothes, rolled then all up and placed them in my suitcase. I made sure I had all my necessary items and Edward's gift ready to go. The doorbell rang and I could hear Alice speaking to my guy. It's like at that moment, all the butterflies in the world, joined as one in my stomach.

What if his plan gets messed up?

What if the weather doesn't cooperate?

Heck, will I like this surprise?

Instead, I pushed all those feelings aside, took a deep breath and went downstairs to start off a remarkable weekend with my love. When I looked up to see him, I know I must have gasped. Donning a matching colored, dark purple dress shirt, Edward had the sleeves rolled up in a way that made me swoon, a pair of dark jeans and black shoes.

"Baby, I have no words for the way you look tonight."

"I can same the same about you, handsome."

He pulled me in for a kiss and my arms made their way around his neck. It wasn't until Alice coughed that I remember she was still standing there.

Edward laugh against my lips. "Sorry for the show! I'm grateful for all your help in making this happen. Have fun with Jasper this weekend and we'll see everyone here for dinner on Monday night.

"Happy to help anytime! Drive safe you two! She disappeared up the stairs as we went to the car. After loading everything in the trunk and getting in, Edward looked in my direction.

"We have about a three hour drive, so I would love to treat you to dinner and take you around the city when we arrive. Sound good?"

"Sounds perfect darling! This is your plan and I'm just happy to be a part of it."

"Well, I really hope you'll enjoy it!"

The car ride was filled with talking about our day, the weekend and even our future. That was one of the biggest things I loved about Edward. We could talk about serious and crazy topics, and he never judged me. We knew all about each other's pasts – the good, bad, and the things we learned from it all. To career changes, housing, marriage, babies, and our favorite things…..it was never a dull moment when it came to conversation. I didn't even notice that he had pulled in front of a restaurant.

"Welcome to The Woodlands, Texas!"

"Oh babe! This is awesome! I've always passed by this city while traveling and heard about it, but I've never been able to actually spend some time here."

"Really?"

"Yes, really! I'm so excited!"

"I'm glad your first time here is with me. I love to come to when I just want to get away and relax. Come, we have a reservation at the Cheesecake Factory."

"They actual serve food here? I thought it was just cheesecake."

Edward chuckled and took my hand as we got out the car. "Don't worry I thought the same thing when I first came. Emmett wouldn't let me live it down for quite a while."

I took in everything as we walked towards the door. Lights ablaze, people laughing, pictures being taken, the smell of food surrounding us from the many restaurants, and the calmness of the night time. The Cheesecake Factory was obviously and affectionately known for its wide variety of cheesecakes. The warm décor and spacious area, provided the right atmosphere for any type of celebration.

"I may have to fight the men off of you, baby. They can't seem to keep their eyes away from", Edward spoke. There were groups of people waiting to be seated as we stood in the short line of those who had reservations.

"I think you might need to get your eyes checked. You have the same effect on women. They're probably thinking dirty thoughts right now." We both laughed and soon were at the front.

"Good evening! Can I have your name please?"

"Table for two under the name Edward Cullen."

"Very well, I have you right here on my list. Cauis will be your waiter tonight, so please follow him. Have a wonderful dining experience!"

We were seated at small table that gave a great view of the water.

"As stated by Anna, my name is Cauis and I'll be taking care of you two this evening. Are we celebrating anything special?

"We wanted to celebrate Valentine's Day early since we both have busy work schedules and I desired Bella to have a great weekend." Edward leaned over and took my hand in his.

"That is very sweet! I can tell y'all are in love. Can I start off by getting your drinks?"

"Bella?" Edward prompted.

"I'll take a mango tea!"

"And a coke for me. Thank you, Cauis."

"I'll be right back with those and then we'll go to the food."

Edward whipped out his phone as I looked on at him. "Can I take your picture, pretty girl?"

I know I must have blushed. "Yes! As long as I get to take yours too."

After taking each other's picture and making sure we were satisfied, we fell into an easy conversation about the rest of tonight's events. Edward had booked our hotel at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center. He told me what they had to offer and I was impressed. We decided on a nighttime dip in the hot tub and movies after we got back up to our room.

"I didn't want to be presumptuous when booking, so I got us a room that has a pull-out couch. That way – "

I cut him off with a kiss to his lips. "We can sleep in the same bed, Edward. We know where we stand and I trust you. I want to be able to cuddle up with my man."

He smiled and kissed me again. "I love you!"

"I love you, too!"

Cauis returned a few minutes later and we ordered dinner.

"I'll have the Louisiana Chicken Pasta minus the mushrooms."

"And for you, sir?"

"The Fresh Grilled Salmon."

"Okay, I have those noted and your meal will be out soon!"

It was probably one of the best meals I had in my lifetime. Edward and I fed each other, took more pictures and got Oreo cheesecake to bring back to our hotel room. After he paid the bill and left a tip, we got in the car and drove to the hotel. We wouldn't have to get in the car until we left since the trolley could take us anywhere around The Woodlands. He insisted on getting our luggage and still managed to take my hand in his. The lobby was quiet and it was no surprise at this time of night. Our room was on the top floor or the spacious hotel with a view over the city.

"Hey babe?"

"Yes, B?"

"I'm going to go and change and then we can head down."

Edward smiled and brought our things in. "Take your time!"

I stripped out of my clothes and folded them back into my bag. The earrings came off, the makeup wiped away, and I opted to keep my hair the way it was. Alice did a wonderful job and I was going to wear it for as long as I could tonight. I put on my midnight blue, Tory Burch cut-out swimsuit, placed my cover-up on top and checked myself out in the mirror one last time. Edward was sitting on the bed wearing a white tank top and black board shirts. His chiseled muscles and toned arms stood out against the nighttime sky.

The hot tub was empty so we had it all to ourselves. Edward got in first and shed his tank top. I literally could have passed out right then and there. I took off my cover up as well as Edward pulled me to sit in front on him.

"Bella, Bella, Bella….are you trying to give me a heart attack?"

I laughed and leaned up to kiss him. "Not at all! I can't have you dying on me!"

"What you're wearing should be considered sinful. You look absolutely beautiful and you have since I picked you up earlier today."

"Thank you, love!" We stayed in a peaceful silence and Edward hummed songs in my ear. After our bodies became raisins, we went up to our suite. I showered first and put on my new silk pajamas. Edward went next and came out wearing sweat pants hung low on his hips and no shirt.

AHHHHH.

We settled on watching Sherlock Holmes and eating the cheesecake we ordered, and he pulled me to his chest as I laid my head on his shoulder. I felt his lips on my forehead and the covers being placed over me.

"How long was I out?"

"Only an hour. I didn't want to disturb you. I'm getting sleepy myself and we have a big day tomorrow! Brunch, shopping, and a concert. Sweet dreams and I love you!"

"Love you, too!"