Disclaimer: SM owns everything Twilight related. I own nothing but this little story.

A big thank you to my team roniangel85, Daphodill and CaliGirlMon.

A huge thankyou to everyone who has read & rec'd my story! You can also find me on FB - Addictedto Fanfiction or my group - Addicted2... Little Miss Norty's Fic

*Warning: BxJ lemon this chapter. I'm sorry, it has to be done, but you'll see why ;)*

Song referred to in this chapter is Mumford & Sons: Little Lion Man. No plagiarism intended.

*Just another quick note regarding The Three Muskateers POV: There's nothing untoward happening, Aro isn't some sort of Mafia hitman who's going to take Jake down or anything. It's all above board ;)*

BPOV

Friday arrives before I know it. It's five p.m. and I'm out the door. The girls giggle through their well wishes, trailing after me as I move quickly to the exit. I toss one last wave behind me as I the door closes and my weekend officially starts.

Heading home to collect my bags, before I start the long trek to Bakersfield. By my calculations I should be there around 9:30 - 10 p.m.

Opening the front door, I hear Miley yapping for my attention; she's so adorable. Picking her up, I talk to her in a silly, baby voice while I pack her things together.

"Hello, baby girl. Did you miss your Momma today? You're going for a sleepover at Auntie Ang's, isn't that exciting?"

Wagging her tail happily, I know she has no idea what I'm saying. Miley loves staying with Angela; she gets spoilt more there than she does at home, if that's even possible. With her food, bedding and treats packed, I head to the bedroom to pack my own bag. Sifting through my drawers, I find some sexy lingerie; because, I am getting laid this weekend. I chuckle quietly to myself, thinking what an idiot I am. Who am I kidding? Let's just hope I get at least one orgasm.

After showering, shaving my legs plus all the important bits, Idress quickly in a cut out shirt, pair of dark wash skinny jeans and my favourite heeled boots. I head out the door with Miley happily following close behind. After placing her in the safety harness, I toss my bag in the passenger seat, and then slide in behind the wheel. I check my hair and make-up in the visor mirror—Not bad methinks—I slide my sunglasses onto my face and hot-tail it over to Angela's.

When I arrive, Angela is already waiting for me at the front door. She seems happier to see Miley than me and shoots me a stern, disappointed look. I know she's not happy that I'm going to see Jake. She's never quiet about her disapproval. Jacob has always been a source of contention between us, but long ago she conceded that she'd let me live my life the way I want. After all these years, I still fail to see what she has against Jake.

I give Miley a quick cuddle goodbye and offer my best friend a kiss on the cheek. She loves me, I know she does. Angela's face breaks into a smile as she pushes me away from her. "Get your ass on the road, Swan. Let me know when you get there."

Hopping back into my car, I head toward the highway. I'm in such a good mood—I refuse to let anything or anyone spoil my weekend. I crank up the radio, drumming my fingers on the steering wheel and singing along at the top of my voice.

Pulling onto the highway, my mind starts to drift. Finally, I'm feeling more relaxed and optimistic about my life. I'm in a stable job that I love, with workmates who I adore. Never in a million years did I think I'd say that. Katie and Lauren are fast becoming very close friends. My own insecurities have caused me to be cautious when making friends. Oftentimes I'm seen as being stand-offish or snobby, rather than just quiet and reserved. It's only been a few weeks and it already feels like Lauren, Katie, and I have known each other forever. Their warmth and humour has made it easy to befriend them. There's only one other person who I've opened up enough to become firm friends with, and that's Ang.

Angela and I been friends for a long time, since my days working at the fast food restaurant. She came in one day and I was being harassed by a male customer. In not so many nice words, she told him where to go and we've been buddies ever since. I consider her my sister; Angela is the closest thing I have to family. Visually, we are completely different. Standing at five foot eight, she's a good couple of inches taller than me. Long flowing blonde hair and bright blue eyes is a stark contrast to my dark tresses and green eyes. We have similar builds, but it was always Ang who turned heads wherever we went. I'm no 'Plain Jane' myself, but when it comes to males...there seems to be some sort of innate attraction they have to blondes. Personality-wise, Ang is the strong, fun-loving, outgoing type. She's also a hard-ass who takes no bullshit from anyone, whereas I'm more likely to 'let people walk over me' as Angela so bluntly puts it. I don't appreciate her saying it, but she is right in some respects. I'm simply more cautious, yet extremely independent. I've learnt not to rely on anyone, therefore I'm never disappointed. Yet I know, without a shadow of a doubt, I can depend on Ang for anything, if I ever need to... and Jake—I can always count on Jake.

My thoughts shift to Lauren and Katie again.I'm sure they'll take to Ang just as I have. I consider organising a girls night with the four of us, something I've never done before. Next time I talk with Angela I'll run it past her, see what she thinks. I'm certain we'd all have a blast together.

Thinking of the girls has brought thoughts of Edward to the forefront of my mind again. Gah! I promised myself I wouldn't think of him. This weekend is about reconnecting with Jake, but I can't help it when his face pops into my head. Even though I've been in the worst mood possible after Charlie's call, I've always found something to admire about Edward. I thought for sure he'd catch me ogling that fine ass, or his long fingers, especially when he handed me his business card. The action threw me for a total loop. I didn't expect that kind of honesty or compassion from him; I thought I was in trouble when he first sat down beside me and began speaking. All week he's gone out of his way to be friendly, and I must say I appreciate it. It doesn't hurt that he's easy on the eyes.

Being lost in my head has caused the drive to go quicker than I expected. Once reaching Firebaugh, I make a stop into McDonalds to stretch my legs, grab a drink and text Jake. Within a couple of minutes he messages back: he's already had dinner and will probably be asleep by the time I get there. He's got to work in the morning, which is unexpected, but he'll finish by lunch time.

Knowing there'll be nothing in the fridge for dinner, I purchase a wrap to go and hit the road again.

The next couple of hours driving are a struggle. Fatigue is starting to set in after the busy day I've had, so I the window down, welcoming the fresh, cool breeze.

Pulling into the apartment complex, I grab my bag and head for the lifts. The company Jake works for provides them with accommodation in self-contained apartments, which helps to keep the costs of working away down. Thankfully Jake has a one bedroom apartment to himself, so I don't feel uncomfortable when I visit. His friends are a bunch of pervs.

Jake is sound asleep on the right side of the bed. I put my bag down and quietly grab my toiletry bag, heading to the bathroom to freshen up. Before long, feeling somewhat refreshed but extremely road-weary, I slide into the cool sheets, careful not to wake Jacob.

Drifting off into a deep sleep, I'm vaguely aware of a gentle kiss on my cheek and a quietly whispered, "I'll see you soon," before I'm dragged back into a blissful slumber.

I wake refreshed and excited to start the weekend. It's close to ten a.m. when my day gets underway. After dressing, in a light tank and a pair of shorts, I take a stroll to one of the many bakeries along the shopping strip. With a bagel and coffee in hand, I head back to the apartment, knowing I've got a couple of hours to kill before Jake's home.

I become so engrossed in the latest Bryce Courtney novel that I don't even hear the door. Jumping nearly six feet in the air when Jake touches me on the arm, I take in a huge gasp of air then launch myself at him.

"Hey Bell, did you miss me?" he asks with a chuckle.

With a smack on the arm, I reply, "Well I did, until you scared the living daylights out of me."

Pulling me down on the couch, he asks a million questions whilst dragging me onto his lap. We chat for a while then decide to take a stroll to the street markets.

"What are we doing tonight," I ask him casually.

"I was planning on taking you to this new bar we've found, all the guys will be there," he replies excitedly.

"Jake," I sigh, "I really just want to spend time with you. I don't see you much and when I do, I'd much rather it just be the two of us."

He turns to look at me with his big dark eyes and I find it hard to refuse, "Bell, we'll spend the afternoon together, then we'll catch up with them for a couple of hours then we'll come back home, just the two of us. Does that sound okay?"

Gah! How can I say no when he turns on the charm like that. "Alright, just for a couple of hours, then we head home, got it?" I say, turning my bitch brow on him.

"Got it," he laughs, while slinging his arm over my shoulder. I soak up the affection and contact while I can. Jake's not a touchy feely person at all, the total opposite of me. So for him to be showing any sort of public display of affection is a big thing. Window shopping is one of my favourite things to do, and Jake indulges me as we stroll back down the street. We pass little shops full of knick knacks, bookstores which I can't but help take a peek in, and thrift stores.

We head back to the apartment, chatting the whole way. As soon as the door's unlocked, he pounces on me. Tearing my tank over my head, his fingers dip into the lace cups of my bra, whilst Jake leaves a trail of open-mouthed kisses up and down my neck. Wanting to slow this down a little, I breathe out 'bedroom', in a husky voice. He walks me backwards as his fingers run up my back, undoing my bra. By the time my knees hit the edge of the bed, my bra is flung across the other side of the room and Jake's tee a crumpled mess on the floor, quickly joined by his cargo shorts.

His calloused fingers snap the button of my shorts open, which are then shimmied down my legs taking the lacy panties that I put on this morning especially for Jake with them. He pushes my shoulders slightly to make me recline on the bed, while he wriggles out of his boxers before climbing on top of me.

"Bells, I've missed you so much, I wish you could be here with me all the time," he whispers breathily into my ear.

"Me too," is my simple reply. I'm too busy soaking up the attention he's paying my neck and collarbone to form more of an answer. His kisses turn more desperate, needy, as he turns his attentions to my right nipple, sucking and laving whilst his other hand is pinching my left into a peak, rolling it between his fingers. A low groan escapes my lips, I close my eyes and savour the sensation. He switches sides, before leaving a trail of open-mouthed kisses down to my hip bones. Placing small nips on either side, his mouth traces a line straight down to my pussy. His tongue swirls around, then from my slit to my bundle of nerves. Closing my eyes tighter, I grasp onto his hair, imagining running my hands through his silky strands of light brown hair—Holy shit! My eyes snap open at the image—What the fuck? No, I can't possibly have thought that.

My pleasure starts to wane while Jake is still going to town between my legs. Grabbing him by the shoulders, I drag him up to me, whispering in his ear how much I need him. Reaching over to the nightstand, he grabs a condom and rolls it onto his hard cock. Plunging his tongue in my mouth, he enters me at the same time, starting a slow but steady pace.

Closing my eyes again, I focus on what Jake is doing. Wrapping my legs around his thighs, I think about his long fingers running through my hair, his soft lips whispering in a velvety sweet voice in my ear. I trace my fingers over the hard planes of his back, feeling broad shoulders and hard pecs, as I run my hands slowly over his chest, feeling the light sprinkling of hair there. His thighs are strong, muscular, and I can feel them tensing and then relaxing underneath my calves. His thrusting takes on an erratic pace, while I feel the beginnings of my own orgasm take over my body.

Oh fuck! I have no idea what the hell just happened. Feeling like I've deceived him, I'm disgusted in myself. Dread settles in my chest and my stomach drops.

My mind flashes back to our first meeting, when Edward literally took my breath away. I can't deny that there's chemistry. I could feel it bouncing between the two of us, but that's all it is, and can't go any further than a stupid infatuation.

"Holy hell, Bells, that was fucking awesome." I'm snapped out of my internalising by Jake's musings, "I've never felt you come like that before. So intense. You must have missed me, hey baby?"

Rolling my eyes at him, I head to the bathroom to freshen up. Meeting Jake back in bed a few minutes later, I try to snuggle into him. That's one thing about Jake, he's not affectionate at all. He hates spooning and won't go to sleep if I'm anywhere near him. Me, I love the contact and especially to be held while drifting off. He'll only give in if I push the matter, even then it's not worth the fight. Over the years I've just become used to his ways, but right now I'm realising how much I miss those post-coital snuggles. A fleeting thought crosses my mind, wondering if Edward's a cuddler. Chastising myself for being ridiculous to even think it, I drop off into a light sleep. Just enough to recharge my energy for tonight.

Tapping me on the leg, Jake says it's time to get ready. I really can't be bothered, but drag myself off to the shower anyway. Letting the warm water cascade over my body, I think about what happened this afternoon. Never in my life have I thought of another person whilst having sex with someone. At first, I tried to push it away, but it didn't work. I let my eyes drift shut and went with the sensations. I had to, if I didn't I would have been pushing Jake off me and telling him to stop. He would have been questioning what was wrong, and I wouldn't have known how to answer him.

Everything was so right about having sex with my boyfriend, but it was so very wrong to be thinking of someone else.

I've had sex with Jake three times over the last eight hours, and each time I didn't feel any attachment to him. There were no whispered words of love, or caresses with meaning. Even his confirmation of his love for me in the shower were mere words. It just felt like plain old sex.

Second time Jake wanted me on top, but I just couldn't look at him. Reverse cowgirl was the only way I could, and as soon as I threw my head back and impaled myself on his cock, visions of a light brown haired, blue eyed god invaded my mind. I was treated to another mind-blowing orgasm, as the guilt, once again, washed over me.

The last time, in the shower, Jake took me from behind, with my palms pressed up against the cool tiles. Feeling him trail his soft lips down my shoulders and back, it was easy to imagine being taken this way by someone I had no business thinking about. The overwhelming feelings of regret hit me as I slumped to the floor, in tears. Within seconds Jake was on the tiled floor,scooping me into his arms. Kissing my face and telling me how much he loved me, and again how it was the best sex of his life, which made me feel worse.

A banging on the door brings me from my musings. Jake's on the other side telling me to hurry up, I decide not to spend any more time dissecting this. There will be plenty of time for self-flagellation when I was home alone.

Jake, as always, looks perfect. He really is a good looking guy. He knows it and plays on it, too. Girls always hovered around whenever we go out. He'll flirt, but in no uncertain terms, makes it clear that he's not available. Cheating is a hard limit for both of us. We both feel comfortable enough in our relationship to know that we wouldn't do that to each other.

His dark features have always been been what attracted me to him, but combined with his dark wash jeans and light blue button down, it's easy to want him.

The Skybar lounge is a typical nightclub, and I can't see us staying for very long. A long drive back to San Fran awaits me early in the morning. Jake waves to his friends in the corner and with his hand on the small of my back directs me over to them.

With a small wave of acknowledgement to the bunch of pervs, I take the seat Jake has pulled out for me while he grabs us some drinks. The boys are all talking work, so I take the time to drink in my surroundings. For only ten p.m. the place is fairly busy, but it's still easy to hear each other. The dance floor is packed, but not so much you can't move. I'd love to have a dance later on, but I don't like my chances of dragging Jake out there. He'll be too busy boozing it up with his sleaze-bag friends.

Glancing over toward the bar, I see Jake still waiting in line, but now there's some blonde chick chatting to him. As long as it's just talking I don't mind. Embry tries to engage me in idle conversation, but we really have nothing in common, so I don't say much. I've met all these guys before, but never really socialised with them. Between Jake's gambling addiction and wasting money on alcohol, I feel like these guys enable him somewhat. While they work away it's like they have no responsibilities; little boys disguised as men, eating, drinking and playing as they please.

They're like a pack of wolves, drooling over me like a piece of meat. Rolling my eyes, I retreat back into my own little world. Best thing to do is ignore their behaviour.

Jake returns with our drinks and slips into easy conversation again, while I sit there and pretend not to be bored. This was not how I imagined our Saturday night. I knew I should have insisted on a quiet night in. After a couple of drinks, I excuse myself to the ladies' room.

Loud, raucous laughter erupts over the din of the music as I make my way back to the table. With the booths being set apart from the chaos of the bar and dance floor, it was easy to hear what was being said. I could hear Jake regaling his idiot friends of some story, and decided to hang back to hear what he said. I loved listening to him in a relaxed, stress free environment.

"And then...did I give her a pounding! She was howling my name, before I was even close to shooting my load. Three orgasms later and she's collapsed in the shower!" he bellows. The whole table bursts into laughter and cheers. My whole face heats up—I'm so embarrassed and can't go back to the table. My bag is there though, and I can't just disappear.

I stand around the corner for another couple of minutes before I make myself known. I reach for my bag and tell Jake I'm grabbing another drink. Barely looking up, he sends me off with a wave of his hand, turning straight back to his mates. He's obviously too tanked to realise that I overheard the conversation, or too damn stupid.

The wait at the bar is almost unbearable, but I'm grateful for the time to cool down. If I don't I'm likely to rip his head off. Finally, with a fruity cocktail in hand, I head back to my seat. It's hard biting my tongue, but now's not the time nor the place to confront him.

Nearing the tables, I feel a hard, firm body against my back. I know it's not Jake, he's too tall and smells different. Wrapping his arm around my waist, he pulls me closer to his torso, and I can feel his erection pressing into my back.

"I heard you're a bit of a wild cat in the sack. Care to let a real man show you what it's like to be fucked properly?" It's Sam—I'd know his deep, husky voice anywhere.

My heart is racing and my breathing erratic. Just a few more steps, and I'd be able to get Jake's attention. Channelling my inner Angela, I reply with acid in my tone, "Not a chance in hell, Sam. I don't need to know what your pin dick looks like." He lets go of me, only to swing me around to face him.

"You don't know what you're talking about little girl. I'd love to taste you and pound my ten inch cock into you," he snarls in return. I'm starting to get scared and inch my way slowly backwards, closer to the table.

"You'll never know you creep!" I scream as loud as I can. This gets the attention of the rest of the guys at the table, just in time for them to see my right fist connect with Sam's face. His head flies back and the table bursts into laughter.

"Jake, I'm leaving," I state, not giving him a chance to reply. Racing out of the bar, I feel tears sting my eyes as I hail a cab. Thankfully, I have the apartment keys in my bag and I let myself in, before breaking down in sobs.

I contemplate driving home, but right now that's a recipe for disaster. A lack of sleep, coupled with the three drinks I've had is not conducive to safe driving conditions. Gasping for breath, I wash my face, brush my teeth and throw on my cotton boy shorts and cami. There's no need for my sexy lingerie tonight. Emotionally exhausted, I fall into a very light slumber. Some time during the night I hear Jake stumble in and I'm grateful that he passed out on the couch.

A mere few hours later, although I'm still worn out, I pack my bag and quietly leave the apartment. I barely glance at Jake, so completely livid at his behaviour last night—how could he not defend me against his disgusting friend? I fight the urge to wake Jacob and verbally rip him to shreds. Something snapped in me last night. The disgusting, objectifying stories, Sam...I shiver at the thought of his hands on me. I don't say a word, instead I slip out of Jake's home undetected.

The drive home is torture. I keep replaying not only last night, but the whole weekend over in my head. I turn my cell off, I just can't speak to him right now.

JPOV

She's gone. I can't believe that she's gone—she left without a word. I was a fucking asshole to her last night, I realize that. I shouldn't have let her come home alone. Sam, for some fucked up reason, thought it would be a good idea to proposition her. She socked him one, but I stood there and laughed it off. I'd had a few too many to drink and didn't realise how much she was hurt...emotionally. Physically, Sam didn't do any damage. I should have stood up for her, fought for her and taken that motherfucker down. Instead I laughed.

She was still here when I got in, but must have left early this morning. There was no note, no goodbye—nothing. She never leaves without saying goodbye, or I love you. That's just her way.

Today, there was nothing.

I've lost her...I know I have.

Rocking on the edge of the couch, I notice droplets of water on my hands. Tears are leaving my eyes unbidden as I replay my stupidity over in my head. I've tried to call her, but her cell is going straight to voicemail.

Not knowing what else to do, I find my stash of Jack Daniels. Turning Mumford and Sons on my iPod, I play "Little Lion Man" over and over and drink myself into oblivion.

...But it was not your fault, but mine

And it was your heart on the line

I really fucked it up this time

Didn't I, my dear? Didn't I, my dear?...

Well we knew it was bound to happen huh? Pitchforks for Jake please, not me ;)

Recs of the week:

In Pursuit by Sarge's Girls

Summary: A normal night out changes everything for two innocent sisters, who stumble upon something that will change their lives forever. Two brave U.S. marshals have to keep them hidden and keep them safe. How far are they willing to go to do what's right? Are the consequences worth it all? AH/Canon Couples/Rated M

Sarge's Girls are doing it again *sigh*

A Ilha do Amor by tufano79

Summary: Summary: Bella Swan, reeling from the unceremonious ending of her engagement
on her wedding day, heads on her honeymoon minus ONE groom. Edward Cullen, is
'sleeping' his way through the guests at the resort on Isle Esme. They meet on
the island off the coast of Brazil but will they find love on a ilha do amor?
The island of love?

Flove this story!

Tip of the Spear by Robsmyyummy Cabanaboy

Summary: The "tip of the spear" - in the military, they are the front line; the initial attack that draws first blood. As a CACO in the United States Marine Corps, Capt. Masen delivers that leading blow, too. He's often faced with handling the collateral damage this life can bring. He's accepted that love & commitment aren't for him…until she opens the door.

Yummy's done it again with this awesome fic! Oh and if you haven't read Last Call - why not? Run! Go do it now, it's awesome!

Summary: The past she's struggling to remember is the time he'd rather forget. Can they move beyond the scars and forge a new beginning together? Or have they missed their Last Call? AH, Rated M for things adults say and do.

That's all for this week. Hope you all have a good one! Sonia xx