First off, I'd like to send a shout out to my TwiSisters (and brothers) for reading the ramblings from my brain. I've really enjoyed writing these stories and knowing that you all like them makes me super happy. MUAH! Secondly, thank you to everyone who has left a review, set up an alert or faved this story. It's overwhelming the attention that this has received. I'm truly humbled by the response. Finally, thank you to Stephanie (lvtwilight09) for the awesome banner. It's posted in my profile!
Lots of positive reinforcement with this one. Apparently you all love your virgin Geekward and Nerdella. So do I.
Anyhoozle, none of this belongs to me. It belongs to that famous writer chick. Stephenie Meyer. I just love playing with Edward and Bella because their lives are SOOOOOOOOOO much more interesting than mine.
So, here we go…
Chapter Eleven: Navy Pier and Strides
EPOV
"Alice, I'm home," I yelled as I put down the mail. Today was horrific. One of our employees, Austin, caused one of our servers to crash. Jasper and I spent the better part of the afternoon up to our elbows in attempting to fix it. I wanted nothing more than to grab a beer and call Bella.
"Be right out, Edward," Alice shouted back. I could tell that she was giggling. If Jasper is doing nasty stuff to her, I swear I will kick his ever loving ass from here to Joliet. "I hope you don't mind. I have a friend over, Edward. I think you know her."
I will not kill Alice. I will not kill Alice. I will not kill Alice.
"If you're trying to set me up, Mary Alice…" I snarled as I turned around to face my sister. However, what greeted me was not what I was expecting. I blinked a few times, trying to discern what was in front of me. Okay, I know I've been sick. But hallucinations? There's a woman here that looks exactly like my Bella. I removed my glasses and rubbed my eyes. I put them back on. Nope, she's still there. Maybe she's not a hallucination… "Am I dreaming? Or is Bella standing in my living room?" Please say that Bella is standing in my living room.
"Bella is standing in your living room, Older," Alice giggled as she skipped over to me.
Yes!
Alice gave me a shove and I finally moved from my spot on the floor. I ran my fingers along Bella's arms. Is she real? Please say she's real. "You're here?" I whispered, looking into her chocolate eyes.
Bella smiled softly and answered, "I'm here."
I blinked a few more times, trying to clear the cobwebs. Your girlfriend is here. In your living room. And you're STARING at her. Do something, Cullen.
Oh, right…
My arms snaked around her waist and I crashed my lips against hers. Bella moaned quietly. Her mouth danced with mine, molding her lips against my mouth. "You're here," I murmured against her soft lips. "I love you." I kept repeating that as I held her. I kissed her feverishly for a few more moments before I pulled away, leaning my forehead against hers. "I can't believe you're here."
"Surprise," Bella said breathily. Definitely. The best surprise in all of my life. I fucking love this woman. "Happy birthday, Edward." Right, my birthday. It's this weekend…THAT'S WHY ALICE MADE SURE MY SCHEDULE WAS CLEAR…I love my sister. Almost as much as I love Bella. My Bella.
"Hmmm, best birthday ever," I murmured as I kiss her perfectly pink and pouty lips. That's a lot of 'p's' Cullen. Shut up, I'm kissing my girlfriend here. "I love you."
"I love you, too," Bella sighed as she wraps her arms around my neck. I held her closely, swaying slightly. I am loving having her in my arms again. I don't want to let her go.
"Ahem," Alice said as she cleared her throat. Shit, we're not alone. Bella and I look at my sister. I will not kill Alice… She was grinning crookedly and bouncing on her toes. "Three months."
What the hell is she talking about? "Three months, what, Younger?" I asked, pulling my brows together.
"You're going to have a ring on her finger in three months," Alice said sagely.
"You're off, Alice," Bella snickered. "He already got a ring on my finger." Ha! Take that, Twin! I kissed Bella's neck as she proved my sister wrong. I did have a ring on her finger. I picked up her hand that held my promise and kissed it sweetly. Bella looked at me, her eyes filled with love and joy, "I love it, Edward. Now I can properly thank you." You have no idea how badly I want that, my love.
Down boy. Keep it in your boxers, Cullen.
"I know about the promise ring," Alice said with a dismissive wave of the hand. "I'm talking about an ENGAGEMENT ring." Oh…three months is too long, Mary Alice. "I get to plan a wedding." Fuck.
"Alice," I growled. She smiled at me sweetly. "Go play with Jasper."
"Okay," she chimed. "But remember our rule. No sex in the common areas."
Kill me now.
I dropped my head onto Bella's shoulder, groaning as I did. I inhaled deeply, memorizing her scent and pressing soft kisses along her skin. "Why couldn't I be an only child? I'm so going to kill a pixie," I murmured against Bella's velvety skin. Bella's tiny hands weaved through my hair and she laughed lightly. Yeah, chuckle at my pain. Thanks, Bella. Alice skipped back into the living room, carrying a bag. Oh, good. She's leaving. Alice ruffled my hair and danced out of the condo. I watched the door for a few moments, waiting for Alice to burst back in. But she didn't. I turned back to Bella and smiled lopsidedly. I gently cupped her face. "You're really here."
"I'm really here," she said. Her eyes were sparkling and she looked radiant.
"God, I love you," I murmured as I kissed her again. I bent down and picked her up bridal style. She squeaked and held onto my neck tightly. My lips never left hers as I walked us to the couch in the condo. I sat down and held her on my lap. Our mouths moved hungrily against each other. Bella pulled away, her breathing erratic. But, I couldn't stop kissing her. My mouth moved down her jaw, lightly nibbling as I went. I reached her earlobe, swirling my tongue around her earrings. The earrings I bought her. "Bella, I'm so happy you're here."
"I can feel how happy you are," Bella replied, the smile in her voice evident. Damn hard-on. I blush and stop kissing her earlobe. "I don't want you to stop, Edward. I was just teasing."
"I'm stopping because I don't want to hear my baby sister giving me shit about having sex in the common areas," I teased back. Bella squeaked and arched a brow. "Kidding, love. But I do need to calm down because you look absolutely beautiful. I love your dress."
"Thank you. Rose bought it for me," Bella said as she tucked her hair behind her ears. "I loved the color."
"It looks perfect on you," I grinned. I laced my fingers with hers, looking down at her ring. "So does this. I was praying it would fit."
"It was a little snug on my right hand. So, I had to put it on my left," Bella said as she ran her fingers over the stones. "My mom thought it was an engagement ring."
"Bella, I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed when it comes to romance, but I would never send you your engagement ring. That's just wrong. You deserve all of the romance. Hearts and flowers," I smirked.
"I know, Edward," Bella said as she put her head on my shoulder. I scooted back on the couch, still cradling her against my chest.
"Besides, I'd want to ask your mom's permission before I do propose," I whispered. "I am kind of old fashioned in that respect."
"Isn't it a little early to be talking marriage?" Bella giggled.
"Perhaps a scoach, but I don't care because you're here and in my arms," I said as I kissed her lips fervently. "So, what do you want to do?"
"I don't know. I've never been to Chicago," Bella said as she ran her fingers through my hair. "You got a haircut."
"I looked like Shaggy from Scooby Doo," I said as a I wrinkled my nose. "I actually got it cut today. There's stuff in it."
"I can feel it. You look really nice. Sexy," Bella purred. "Though, I really love you in a suit."
"I'll make sure we go out so I have to wear one," I said as I kissed her neck. "Hmmm, I am so happy, Bella."
"Not as happy as me. I've been miserable without you, Edward," she said. "The past few weeks has been…"
"Unbearable. I know. Couple that with a case of SARS," I snickered.
"You did not have SARS. You had the flu. Way to be melodramatic, Cullen," Bella said with a wry grin. I rolled my eyes and pulled her closer to me. "I did miss you tremendously."
"Me too. I may not let you go when you leave…When are you leaving? If you say that you're staying indefinitely…" I said with an excited grin on my face.
"I'm leaving on Monday morning for New Orleans. Rose let me out of her hair while she's in Denver. She only has one book signing and one interview. She's using the time that she has free with a friend of hers from college. Irina or Arianna or something like that. But I'm still going to be here for Emmett's birthday party."
"Ugh, don't remind me. We're still having it even though the Golden Boy is crashing and burning," I grumbled. "But, what can you do?"
"Payback is a bitch," Bella said with a wicked glint in her eyes. "So, back to entertainment. I'm all gussied up, let's go out."
"Hmmm, let's go to Navy Pier. Do you have different shoes?"
"Of course I do. Alice shoved these at me as you were walking in the door. They are KILLING me," Bella said as she hopped up. She slipped off the death traps and crouched down to grab a pair of ballet flats from her bag. "Much better. So, let's go to Navy Pier. Wherever that is."
I got up and dropped off my messenger bag in my tech man cave. "Do you want to leave your suitcase in my bedroom? I'm assuming that's where you are staying. If that's alright?" I blushed.
"Alice did set up a hotel…"
I will kill Alice. I will kill Alice. I will kill Alice.
"…But I'd like to stay here," Bella smirked.
I gave her a crooked grin and grabbed her suitcase and carryon. "This way," I said as I led her down the long hallway to my room. Her tiny hand twined with mine and I opened the door. But I started panicking. Are there underwear on the floor? Did I make my bed? Does it smell like Fritos? I smiled and stepped into my bedroom, Bella following behind. Thankfully none of my worries were needed. My floor was underwear-free. My bed was neatly made and it had a fresh linen scent to the room. Okay, I'll admit. I have a touch of OCD. So, shoot me.
"Edward, your room is so…"
"Repulsive? Stupid? Messy?" I offered.
"Not what I expected," Bella giggled. "Baby, I love you but you are a geek. I thought you'd have Xena posters all over your walls. But this. This is nice."
"Xena? Please, Bella," I snorted. "I outgrew that years ago. It's all about anime. The room has a Japanese feel to it. Like anime. But much more subtle."
"Dork."
"Geek. Be accurate of your descriptions, love," I snickered as I wrapped my arms around her waist. She leaned into my arms and sighed deeply. "You're really here. I'm really holding you and your in my bedroom."
"It's where the magic happens," Bella laughed.
"Ah, no. This is not some lame episode of 'Cribs' where I bounce on the bed saying that," I replied dryly. Bella moved from my arms and crawled onto my bed. Holy shit, I have a woman in my room. And she's on my bed. Danger! Wait, what? Not danger! Make love to your woman, Cullen.
I've lost my damn mind.
"Edward?"
"Huh?" I answered intelligently. And you have an IQ of 180. Brilliant.
"You are really out of it. Are you sure you're okay?" Bella asked from my bed. She was nestled back on the pillows and her legs were crossed daintily at the ankles.
"Um, you're the first woman that's ever been in here. Well, besides my mom and Alice. I'm kind of going through sensory overload. Seeing you sitting on my bed and my brain switched to the perv channel," I chuckled nervously.
"Imagining the magic," she asked as she quirked a brow.
"Heh, yeah," I said. I sounded like fucking Beavis and Butthead. GAH!
"Edward?" Bella sang. "Don't be ashamed. Trust me, I've been thinking about that. A lot. You are the star of my fantasies."
"Really?" I asked quietly. Bella nodded and beckoned me with her finger. You need to walk, Cullen. One foot in front the other. Come one. You can do it! I moved over to the bed and sat stiffly on it. Bella crawled over to me and grabbed my face. She kissed me sweetly. I gasped but quickly deepened our kiss. I ran tongue along her bottom lip and she sighed, opening her sweet mouth for me. I slid my tongue between her teeth and it danced with hers. Bella bit down on my top lip slightly and I groaned. She pulled away and gave me a self-satisfied smirk. "I need a cold shower."
"Later, Cullen. Take me to Navy Pier," she giggled.
"Evil woman," I said as I stood up, subtly adjusting my bulge. You're getting better at that, Edward. You will become a sexual deviant like Jasper. Just you wait and see.
I held out my hand for Bella to help her off the bed. She gracefully climbed off and I assisted her to the door. I stopped at the front door, tapping my lips. "It's a special occasion," I murmured as I grabbed my keys. I swiped a jacket from the closet and we rode down the elevator to the parking garage. "So, when did you get into Chicago?"
"Around two. Alice took me out for lunch and then brought me back here," Bella said as she put her head on my shoulder. "Your sister reminds me of Rose except she's not a sex-crazed maniac."
"Well…" I said sheepishly. "She's more subtle than Rose."
"Subtle and Rose do not belong in the same sentence," Bella laughed.
"This is true," I said as the elevator opened up. I gently tugged on Bella's hand and hit the remote to the car. My Aston blinked twice. Bella's eyes grew as big as saucers. "It's a very special occasion."
"Um, that's, um…shit. What a car," Bella squeaked.
"You want to drive her?"
"No. I'm afraid I'd kill it," Bella mumbled. I laughed and helped her into the passenger seat. She let out a quiet moan as her legs felt the supple leather. I know, baby. This car exudes sex. Sex in the Aston with Bella…I swear I'm going to pop a button off of my khakis.
I closed the door and jogged to the other side. I eased into the driver's seat, biting back my own moan. Not because of the car, but the beauty sitting in said car. Bella is in my Aston Martin. I will not cream my pants. You are not thirteen, Cullen. I started the car and backed it out the parking space. I waved at the guard as I pulled out into traffic toward Navy Pier. I easily navigated the streets of Chicago. I knew them like the back of my hand. I drove a lot faster here than I did in Phoenix because you have to. You have to drive like you have a death wish in these streets. If not, you'll be left in the dust. Bella was gripping my hand tightly as I weaved in and out of traffic. "Holy hell, Edward."
"Sorry, love. You have to drive aggressively or you get your ass handed to you on a platter. It's worse in New York, though. The cabbies do have a death wish," I snickered. "But loosen the hold. I can't feel my fingers."
"Sorry, angel," Bella whispered as she lessened her hold on my hand. We finally arrived at Navy Pier and I parked the car in the lot. As far away from other cars as possible. Bella grabbed her purse and I led us into the bustling tourist location. I'd only ever been to Navy Pier once before. It was with Jasper and Alice on some random New Year's Eve. Jasper got tickets for a party and I escorted his cousin. His cousin was eighteen and she ditched me as soon as we got there, after I got her alcohol. It didn't matter to me. I spent the whole time talking about computers with the bartender.
"Are you hungry?" I asked. "I know you ate a late lunch…"
"I'm a little hungry," Bella said as she fell into step with me. "What's good?"
"Hmmm, do you like seafood?"
"I do."
"Then, let's go to Bubba Gump's. It's good Creole food," I said. "Based off that movie."
"Perfect," Bella smiled as we headed toward the restaurant. We're seated immediately and placed our orders. "So, how was work?"
"You really don't want to know," I sighed. "But it's doesn't matter now because you're here. My horrific day has since faded into the recesses of my mind. Not to be dealt with until…"
"Edward?"
"Hold on," I said as I took out my cell phone. I dialed Jasper's number. It rang a few times.
"Alice…stop that. I'm on the phone. Hello?" Jasper asked breathily.
"Are you corrupting my sister?" I snorted.
"No, your sister is corrupting me," Jasper purred. "What do you want so I can get back to being corrupted?"
"I'm taking tomorrow and Friday off," I said.
"What the fuck? Edward, we have to fix the server!" Jasper snarled.
"I can do the code work from home. You're better with the hardware than I am anyway," I said as I rolled my eyes, taking Bella's hand in mine. "Something came up."
"Let me guess…"Jasper said dryly. I heard smack on the phone. "Ow! Damn Alice, you have an arm. Why the fuck are smacking me?"
"Give my brother the days off, Jasper or I'll never give you head again," Alice threatened.
"But, Pookie Bear," Jasper whined. "We…"
"Pookie Bear?" I laughed.
"Shut the fuck up, Cullen. Both of you," Jasper grumbled. "I'm getting tag teamed by the witch twins. Ugh, fine, Edward. You better not be a virgin come Monday." Smack! "Alice! Stop it."
"That is not happening this weekend, Whitlock. Edward is much more romantic than that," Alice said. "And for that, you are not getting head for a week."
"But, Alice…"
"And I'm going. Thanks, Jas!" I said as I hung up the phone. I turned to smile at Bella. "I'm off until Monday."
"You're not going to get in trouble, are you?" Bella asked as she bit her lip.
"I own the damn company, Bella. Jasper is just giving me shit because we had a server crash today. We couldn't it back up and he needs me to help him. But I can work on the software from home. I have a mobile link in my tech man cave," I said as I arched a brow.
"Tech man cave? That is priceless!" Bella giggled. Our server delivered our food and we dug in. "This is really good. But I know I won't be able to eat it all."
"We can take it home," I said as I dug into my jambalaya. Home. Bella's home. "So, how was LA and Vegas?"
"Good. Hot. Vegas made Phoenix feel like the North Pole. Have you ever been to Vegas?"
"Jasper wanted to go there for his bachelor party. We stayed at the Bellagio. The guys were a hot mess. I was just the geek who played video poker the entire time," I shrugged. "Nearly lost my shirt. I was determined to figure out the quirks of the program. When I did, I came home nearly $25,000 richer."
"Only you would play video poker to figure out the program," Bella said with a smile on her face. "Rose and I played black jack. That's a game I'd figure you play. Counting the cards and shit."
"Next time," I smirked. "Did you win?"
"I tripled my cash that I brought with me," Bella said proudly. "Rose lost it all, though. At least the money she had in her purse."
"That was the day you went to the club, right?"
"Yeah. I really didn't want to go. Dealing with guys pawing at me," Bella shuddered. "Thank goodness for Demetri. My gay boyfriend."
"If I ever meet Demetri, I'm buying him a drink," I smiled. "He took care of my girl."
"He's local. Lives in Chicago," Bella said as she pushed away her food.
"Perhaps we can call him while you're here and get together," I suggested. Bella smiled and nodded. "Are you done?"
"If I eat anymore, I'll burst," Bella said as she sat back in the booth.
"No bread pudding?" I teased.
"Edward, I've gained so much weight on this tour because all we do is eat out. I hate exercising, but I'm starting to work out in the fitness centers at the hotels we're staying at," Bella groaned.
"Okay, we'll skip the bread pudding," I chuckled. I searched for our server and flagged her down. I asked for a box for Bella's food and the check. The waitress handed me the folder. Without looking at the cost, I slip my credit card into the folder. Bella pouts. "Stop the pout, Bella. I want to spoil you."
"One of these days, I'm going to pay for dinner or something," Bella threatened.
"You paid for your plane ticket out here," I conceded.
"True," Bella admitted.
"So, you paid for something. That doesn't mean I have to like it or that I can't slip the cost of the plane ticket into your purse," I smiled.
"Edward!"
"Kidding, Bella. Relax," I guffawed. The waitress returned and I signed the receipt after I gave her a tip. "Let's wander, my love."
Bella nodded and we headed outside. My arm was securely around Bella's waist. We walked around. Bella's eyes were shooting around and the look on her face was one of complete joy. Bella looks up and sees the big Ferris wheel. She shivers and presses her soft body closer to mine. "You want to go?"
"I'm so afraid of heights," Bella whispered.
"Me too, but it could be fun," I said as slip off my jacket and put it around Bella's shoulders. She's dwarfed by my coat but she accepts it. I reach for her arm, erm, sleeve and we walk to the ticket booth. I paid for two tickets for the Ferris wheel. We get in line and I stand behind Bella, my arms around her waist. Her back was pressed against my chest. "I love you, my Bella," I whispered in her ear.
"I love you, more, Edward," she whispered as she turned her head. I pressed a sweet kiss to her nose. She giggled and nestled in my arms. We finally reached the front of the line and wait for the next carriage. When I hand the tickets to the attendant, I palmed a twenty into his hand, asking for a carriage to ourselves. The boy grinned and assisted us into our car. We settle into the carriage. Bella is gripping my waist tightly. "Why did I agree to this?"
"Because you love me?" I offered.
"I love you, but I don't want to fall to my death. I don't want to die a virgin," Bella grumbled.
"Hello, I'm older than you and still a virgin," I snickered. "I'm in the same boat, love. Just enjoy the view." I said this calmly, but like Bella, I was freaking out. But I needed to be strong for my girl. My beautiful girlfriend. I kept my irrational fears at bay and held my Bella.
She's still rigid and breathing shallowly. I looked down at her. Bella's face was pressed into my chest. I cupped her chin and gently raised her face to look at me. "Nothing is going to happen to you, love." Her eyes are terrified. I furrowed my brows. "What can I do make you feel better?"
"Kiss me?" she whispered. "Please?"
"Gladly," I said as I leaned down, brushing my lips against hers. I pulled away, but Bella wanted more. Her hands moved to my newly shorn hair and she traced her tongue along my lips. I angled my head and slid my own tongue between her velvety lips. A soft moan escaped my mouth and I pull Bella closer to me. You're on a Ferris wheel, dipshit. Don't jump her bones here. I opened my eyes and move away, resting my forehead against hers. "Better?"
"Mmmhmm," Bella mumbled as she put her head on my chest, right above my heart. "I'm so happy I'm here."
"Here in Chicago or here on the Ferris wheel?" I teased.
"Chicago, Edward," Bella said dryly. "I can't wait until the Ferris wheel ride is over."
"The kiss didn't help?"
"It helped. It helped turn me on," Bella whispered. She shifted uncomfortably and gave me an evil eye. "You're just too good at this shit."
"Just going with instincts, love," I smiled. "Perhaps when we get back to the condo, I can help you…"
"Hmmm," Bella smiled seductively. "Only if I get to return the favor."
Holy hell…are we…? No, not yet. But we can have fun. Fun is well, fun!
I smiled and kissed her forehead. Calm down, Cullen. Don't ravish her on the Ferris wheel. We get out of the carriage and head to the end of the pier for the fireworks that the city puts on every Wednesday and Saturday. We don't talk. We just cuddle on a bench until the fireworks begin to go off. Bella watched the fireworks. I watched Bella, holding her on my lap. How did I get so lucky?
"Beautiful Bella?" I heard. I furrowed my brows. My Bella is not beautiful. She's stunning, gorgeous, ravishing, exquisite…
"Demetri?" Bella squeaked. She hopped off my lap and ran into Demetrio's arms. They hugged and he kissed her cheek. "Edward, this is Demetri. My gay boyfriend. Demetri, this is my Edward. My real boyfriend."
"Nice to meet you, Edward," Demetri said as he shook my hand. His eyes wandered up and down my body. He licked his lips and arched a brow. "I can see where all the looks went in your family."
"Excuse me?" I asked.
"I know your brother, Emmett," Demetri said. He smiled tightly. "He is notorious in the business."
"Oh, he's just notorious," I snickered. "Thank you for looking out for Bella in Vegas."
"She helped me out, too. My buddies don't really know that I'm gay," Demetri shrugged. "I'm actually here with them for some corporate bonding shit."
Bella danced over to me and laced her fingers with mine, kissing my shoulder. I brushed a hair off her face and looked at her sweetly. "You two are so stinking adorable," Demetri said as he pulled both of us into a tight hug. My face was pressed into Demetrio's burly shoulder.
"Demetri…can't breathe," Bella rasped. "Stuck in Edward's arm pit."
Demetri released us and I righted my glasses, checking on Bella. The pattern from my polo was squished on her nose. I tried to hold back laughter. But I bent over in a fit of giggles. Demetri saw what I was looking at and he started snorting. Bella glowered at us and walked away. "Bella," I said as I ran up behind her. "You just have the waffle pattern on your nose from my shirt. It was cute." She turned around and squeezed my sides. I jumped and danced away. Her face morphed into a playfully wicked grin and she poked at my sides again. "Evil woman."
"Evil man. Demetri hold him," Bella giggled.
I felt Demetri wrap his arms around my shoulders and he pressed me to his back. "No!" I laughed. "Stop, please! I'll behave. I'm begging. No tickling." Demetri poked me in the sides and released me. I glared at him.
"You're a lot more fun than your brother. If you weren't straight, I'd do you," Demetri snickered.
"I love Bella. But thank you," I said with a slight bow. "You're handsome in a 'Fabio' sort of way."
"It's the long flowing locks," Demetri said as he flipped his hair. "Anyhoo, I have to head back to the corporate thing. I thought I recognized beautiful Bella and I wanted to say hi."
"I'm going to be in town for a few days, Demetri. Perhaps you and Alex can go out for dinner with Edward and I," Bella suggested.
"You have my number, beautiful Bella. Call me. And give it to your gorgeous boyfriend," Demetri winked as he jogged away.
"He's…interesting," I chuckled.
"He likes you," Bella said.
"Well, I like him. In a platonic way. I love you," I said. I wrapped my arms around her waist and dipped her in a kiss. She laughed against my mouth. I righted her and laced my fingers through hers. "You want to head back."
"Yeah. I've been up since seven Pacific Time and it's after ten. I'm tired," Bella muttered. I nodded and led us back to my car. We get in and I drove us back to the condo.
I parked the car and looked at Bella. She was zonked out, leaning against the window. "Bella," I cooed. She hummed but didn't wake. I smiled and got out of the car. I opened up the passenger seat and gently picked her up. I closed the car door with my hip and walked to the elevator. One of my neighbors held the door open and I gave her a smile as I shifted the sleeping beauty in my arms.
Once up at my condo, I awkwardly open the door and carry Bella into the bedroom. I placed her on the bed and she curled around my pillow. I didn't feel comfortable changing her. I'd never seen her without clothes. I knelt down and pressed soft kisses along her cheeks and her jaw. "Bella, love," I whispered. "We're home."
"Hmmm, turn off the coffee maker," she murmured.
"I'll do that, love. But you need to change," I said. Bella opened her eyes and smiled sleepily. "Baby?"
"How did I get up here?" she asked.
"You fell asleep in the car, love. I carried you," I said as I caressed her cheek.
"Oh!" Bella said as she sat up. "You didn't have to do that. I'm not…"
"Bella, you're fine. I'm a geek but I do work out," I snickered. "Besides you weigh like two pounds."
"Speaking of working out," Bella began. "Can I join you tomorrow?"
"Sure, I run, though. Along the lake," I said. "Do you have running shoes?"
"Yep," Bella grinned. "And I need to pee. Bathroom?"
I pointed to the bathroom door. Bella slid off the bed, grabbed her pajamas and went into the bathroom. Before she closed the door, she turned and looked at me. "No shirt?"
"For you?" I teased. Bella grabbed a pillow off my bed and chucked it at me. "Fine, I won't wear a shirt."
"I can't believe you said that," Bella said as she closed the door to the bathroom. I laughed and went to change in my closet. I pulled off my polo and tossed it in the hamper. I eased off my khakis and put on a pair of basketball shorts. When I walked out of my closet, Bella was sitting on my bed, wearing a tank top and a pair of tiny shorts. In her lap was my MIT shirt. "Can I make a request?"
"You can request anything," I said as I sat down.
"Can you wear this to bed? I had to wash it and it doesn't smell like you anymore," she said with a tiny frown on her face. I nodded and pulled the t-shirt over my head. Ironically, the shirt smells like Bella. Sweet, warm, and perfect. I pulled down the duvet. Bella crawled underneath and cuddled up next to me. "I'm so happy, Edward."
"Me too, my Bella," I said as I put my head on hers. "I really can't believe that you're here. In my arms."
"In your bed," Bella snickered.
"First and hopefully only woman who will lay with me here," I said as I kissed her hair. "I love you, Bella. You don't even know how much this means to me."
"I'd do anything for you, angel," she said as she looked up at me. "My geeky guardian angel."
"Speaking of guardian angels, where's Rufus?" I joked. Bella smiled and straddled my waist as she got out of bed. No, stay there. Please. Ride me, cowgirl.
Down, you perv!
Bella rooted around in her suitcase and took out Rufus, clutching him to her chest. "He's been my bed companion."
"I'm jealous of a stuffed angel lion," I said. I flopped back on my pillows with a huff. I heard Bella put Rufus down. She climbed up the bed and up my body with a predatory swagger. I looked at her as she moved toward me, willing my dick to behave.
"Are you jealous now?" she asked as she straddled my legs. She leaned down and captured my mouth in a passionate, loving kiss. My hands moved to her hips and I eagerly accept her kiss. Her fingers moved to my shirt and begins tugging at the hem. "Wear it tomorrow. It needs to come off," she mumbled against my mouth. I chuckled and sat up, pulling the shirt from my body. Bella's warm hands caress my torso as her mouth moved along my jaw and neck. "You smell so good, Edward."
Cannot form words. Beautiful woman kissing my bare skin. Gah!
"Not as good as you, love," I said as I ran my hand up the side of her body. I gently touched her cheek as I stared into her eyes. Bella reached for my glasses and put them on the nightstand. Before I could say anything, Bella's mouth is crushed against mine. I growled deeply in my chest and plunged my tongue between her soft lips. One of my hands rested on her hip and I rolled my body so I was hovering over her. Bella let out a breathy giggle. My mouth moved along her silky skin, focusing on her neck and jaw. "Definitely smell better," I said huskily.
With the hand that was on her hip, I idly traced my fingers up and down her leg. I hitched over my hip and I put some of my weight on her. Bella moaned and her was thrown back. My arousal pressed into her warmth and I bit back a groan. "Edward, touch me," she whispered.
"Are you sure?" I asked. She took my hand and led it up to her chest, laying it on her belly.
"I'm sure. Touch me. I need to feel your hands on me," she said, her eyes darkening. I leaned down and brushed my lips against hers. My hand gently ran across the smooth fabric of her tank top. My fingers skimmed the strap as I moved them along her body. Bella's moans were growing louder and she was writhing underneath me. "Edward," she begged. "Please, angel."
I smiled against her mouth and moved my hand to her perfect breast. With reverence, I gently caress her soft mound with my hand. Bella sighed and pushed on my shoulder. I rolled and she was straddled on my legs again. Her mouth never left mine as we moved. Bella reached for my other hand and placed it on her hip, underneath her shirt. I ran my thumb along her skin as I moved hand along her back. As I inched my hand along her body, her shirt went up bit by bit. "Bella," I murmured. "You've seen me." She giggled and gently ran her fingers along my bare chest. "Can I see you?"
She sat up and bit her lip. I think. I'm blind, remember? "If you're not comfortable, love…"
"No, I want you to see me," she said. It was so quiet, it was barely audible.
"Bella, you are the most beautiful woman in the world to me," I said as I sat up, pulling her closer to my chest. Also so I could read the expression in her eyes. She rested her forehead against mine and put my hands on her hips, slightly under her shirt. She kissed me sweetly and nodded. I slowly lifted the hem of Bella's tank top, kissing her perfect mouth as I did so. I broke apart from her only to toss the shirt onto the floor with mine. My hands glided down her smooth back only to realize she wasn't wearing a bra.
You have a half naked woman in your bed, Cullen. A half naked, BEAUTIFUL woman in your bed.
Bella looked into my eyes as she pulled away. I ran my hands up her back and gently caressed her cheeks which were a bright pink. "You are truly exquisite, Bella."
"And you're blind," she said nervously.
"Bella, I don't have to see to know that you have soft, supple skin. I don't have to see that you are perfect and have the right amount of curves," I murmured. I ran my fingers along her spine, playing it like a piano. Bella trembled and pressed closer to me. Her bare breasts were against my chest and I hitched a breath. "You're perfect, love."
"Touch me, Edward," she whispered. "Please?"
I swallowed convulsively and kissed her neck. My hands hovered over her skin, causing her to tremble. I again, kissed her soft lips as my hand moved to her breast. Her naked breast. And I palmed it. It fit perfectly in my hand. Bella moaned and arched her back slightly, pushing her breast further into my hand. With nervous fingers, I pinched her nipple as I moved my lips down her neck, inhaling as I did. "So beautiful," I murmured as I fondled her chest. Bella seemed to enjoy it as her hips began moving over my arousal. Keep that up and I'll have to take a shower, love. I pressed tender angel kisses to her collarbones. I looked up at her. Bella's eyes were trained on me and her breathing was erratic. I move my kisses lower on her body.
"Edward," she moaned as she tightened her hold on my hair, almost pushing me to go further. I leaned down and kissed the swell of her breast. I traced my lips along the silky smooth skin there and moved to her pert nipple. I drew it into my mouth, swirling my tongue around it like I did her earring earlier today. "Holy shit," she mumbled. "Feels so good." Using my teeth, I gently nibble on her breast while my hand moved to the other one. I peppered opened mouth kisses along her chest and moved back up to her lips. "Baby," she moaned.
"Hmmmm," I murmured. "I love you, Bella. You are the angel. So perfect and beautiful." I looked at her and gave her a crooked grin.
"I love you, Edward," she said quietly as a tear fell down her cheek.
"Why are you crying love?" I asked.
"You are truly amazing, Edward. Thank you for making me feel comfortable," she said quietly. "You're the first person…"
"Bella, I'm honored that you trust me enough," I said as I caressed her cheeks. "Thank you."
Bella wrapped her arms around my neck and buried her nose into my hair. I held her closely. After an immeasurable moment, Bella pulled away and crawled back beneath the sheets. Without her tank top. I gulped and slid in behind her. I wrapped my arms around her waist and spooned my body protectively around hers. "I love you, Edward."
"I love you, so much, my Bella," I said as I kissed her neck. "Sleep well, love."
"I have you holding me, I'll sleep perfectly," Bella whispered as she turned to kiss my lips. She nestled into my chest, her bare back warm against my body. Bella's breathing evens out and I could tell she was asleep. On her perfect face was a serene smile. I kissed her temple holding her tighter against my chest. There was nowhere else that I wanted to be. I was home with her. Where ever she went, I would follow. I just knew it.
xx ANSOL xx
"Edward!" Alice hissed.
"Go away, Alice," I grumbled as I buried my nose in Bella's hair. We're tangled in the sheets, Bella curled against my chest.
"I need to borrow Bella," Alice said as she stepped in my room. I opened an eye and growled. "Sheesh, relax Older."
"You can borrow my girlfriend later. We're sleeping," I said as I held Bella closer. She hummed and kissed my chest. She still doesn't have a shirt on. "Go away."
"I need to take her shopping."
"Over my dead rotting corpse, Alice," Bella mumbled sleepily.
"But you need to buy Edward's birthday present," Alice sang.
Bella grumbled in my chest, lightly kicking the bed. She huffed and looked at my evil sprite of a sister. "Give me an hour?"
"An hour? I have to wait that long?" Alice whined.
"Alice, don't make me put your Jimmy Choos into the washing machine," Bella snickered.
"What?" Alice chirped and she ran out of the room.
"How did you do that?"
"She's a mini Rose," Bella smiled. "They both have an affinity for all things fashionable and expensive. I saw a pair of Jimmy Choos in her closet when she handed me the death traps."
"I thought I was dreaming," I said as I ran my fingers along her naked back. Her eyes rolled back in her head. She put her cheek against my chest. "You still want to go running later?"
"I should. I feel like a heifer," Bella giggled. "I'm surprised I didn't hurt you when you carried me up here."
"Bella, please. My pinky finger weighs more than you," I teased. "After you get back from shopping with my sister?"
"Hmm, sounds good. Can you toss me my shirt?" Bella asked. "Do you think Alice noticed?"
"She was more worried about her shoes," I said. I kissed her forehead before I swiped her tank top from the floor. "Your tank top, my love."
Bella blushed and pulled it over her head, covering her gorgeous body. She is never allowed to wear clothes again. Damn. I kissed her soft lips and she got out of the bed. Bella crouched next to her bag and took out some clothes. She gave me a wink. I think. And she padded to the bathroom. Once the door clicked shut, I rolled on my belly, inhaling the space that Bella was just laying in. I smiled widely and held her pillow close to my body.
"Your girlfriend/fiancée/future wife is diabolical," Alice said as she perched on my bed.
"Holy Christ! Since when are you a fucking ninja, Alice?" I asked as I jumped up.
"First she threatens my Jimmy Choos. Then, she is sleeping with my brother. Topless. Next thing I know, she's going to be with child," Alice said, a smile playing on her lips. "I'm so proud of you Older."
"You're weird, Alice. Only you would be thrilled about me having a baby out of wedlock," I snarked.
"Did you?"
"Did I what?" I asked.
"Make love to your woman?" Alice snickered.
"No, Alice. We fooled around. That's all your getting. Now scoot. I want a few moments with my girlfriend before you steal her away from me to go on this shopping spree," I said, arching my brow and squinting slightly. Alice rolled her eyes and handed me my glasses. "And I don't want her to get me anything."
"Edward, she's your girlfriend. She loves you. She wants to spoil you, just like you want to spoil her," Alice said. "And we're taking your car. The Volvo."
"At least fill it up, Alice," I said.
"Will do, brother mine," Alice replied as she kissed my cheek. "I think I was wrong about the three months nonsense. I get this vibe about the two of you. It will be sooner, Older. You will be engaged sooner than you think." Alice got up out of the bed and smiled crookedly as she left the room.
I got up from the bed and swiped the shirt that Bella wanted me to wear. I put it over my head and ran my fingers through my mess of bronze hair. I looked in the mirror and groaned. "God, it's a mess."
"No, it's sex hair," Bella giggled.
"Too bad we didn't have sex," I snorted. Bella walked into the bedroom and smacked my ass as she strode past me. I yelped and gave her the Cullen death glare, usually reserved for my sister.
"Don't look at me in the tone voice, Edward…what's your middle name? I don't even know your middle name," Bella said. "I can't properly yell at you if I can't call you by your full name."
"My full name is Edward Anthony Masen Cullen," I replied. "Anthony is my baptismal name and Masen is my middle name on my birth certificate."
"That's a mouthful," Bella mused.
"What's yours?"
"Marie."
"Isabella Marie Dwyer," I smiled. "Pretty. Gorgeous. Perfect. Just like you."
"You're going to make my head swell, Edward," she snickered.
"Bella! We have a date at Macy's! Let's go!" Alice yelled.
"Okay, she's worse than Rose," Bella said as she pulled her hair back into a ponytail "I'll call you when we're on our way back. I love you, Edward."
"I love you, Bella." I pulled Bella into an embrace, lifting her in arms. Bella wrapped her legs around my waist and kissed me sweetly as I held her. "Have fun with my sister."
"I'll be focusing my attention on getting you your birthday present, so it will be fun," Bella smirked. "Put me down, please."
"Do I have to?"
"As fun as it is to be held like this, I don't think Alice would approve of me essentially dry humping you," Bella said with a wry grin. Do not imagine humping your girlfriend. Be a gentleman. But humping her would be so much fun. "Edward?"
"Sorry," I said. I gently placed her on her feet and kissed her lips chastely. "See you in a few hours, gorgeous."
"Love you, angel."
"Love you more."
Bella grabbed her purse and left the bedroom. I headed into the shower and quickly washed my body and hair. I shaved my face and popped in my contacts because Bella loves my eyes so much. I decided to do some work as Alice and Bella were out, so Jasper wouldn't kick my ass because I flaked out on him. Yes, my girlfriend is in town. Yes, my birthday is this weekend. Lay off, Whitlock.
The morning went by quickly and eventually it's early afternoon. Bella and Alice breezed in. Bella looked absolutely drained while Alice looked radiantly happy. She always does when she shops. "Did you ladies have fun?"
"Yes."
"No."
They answered simultaneously. Guess who said what…I snickered. "Did you get what you were looking for?"
"Yes, we did. Bella got you the best birthday present and I got her the cutest dress for our dinner," Alice chimed.
"Dinner?" Bella asked.
"Yeah. We're having dinner with the parental on Saturday," Alice chirped. "No Emmett though. He's got a business trip or something."
"I'm going to meet your parents?" Bella squeaked.
"Bells, they'll love you," Alice said as she danced over to Bella. Bells? Does she call her 'Chimes' too?
"Alice, a little warning would have been nice," I said tersely. "Mom will be all over Bella, but Dad…?"
"He'll be on his best behavior," Alice said. "Trust me, Older."
"I'll try, Younger," I said. "You want to run off some of this nervousness?"
"Yes, please. Let me change," Bella said. I was already in my running shorts and shoes, my sunglasses sitting on my head. A few moments later, Bella came out wearing a tight tank top and a pair of shorts that were barely covering her ass. I'll need to run behind her. So I can watch her butt. Her hair was pulled up in a high ponytail and she had on a slim headband. "Ready?"
Not trusting my voice, I nodded. I swiped my key but decided to leave my iPod here. We rode down the elevator and walked out the front entrance of my condo. "Have a good run, Mr. Cullen."
"Thanks, Pete," I said as moved my sunglasses down onto my face. Bella gave Pete a wave and we walked out into the warm sun. I lived a few blocks away from the lakeshore. We walked to the path. Once there, Bella plopped down and did some stretches, essentially folding herself in half. I gaped at her.
"What?"
"I'm amazed at how bendy girls are," I squeaked. "You realized you just folded yourself in half."
"You could do it too," Bella teased.
"Not in this space time continuum," I said as I grabbed my right ankle, stretching my hamstrings. Bella laughed, her voice sounding like pealing bells. We finished our stretching and started a slow amble along the path. Bella's ponytail was swinging as she moved. I had a hard time to not pull her into a grove a trees and have my wicked way with her. Her hips were swaying and her brow was furrowed with determination. My brow was furrowed out of trying to keep my brain in order and not jump my girlfriend.
We ran for a few miles in a companionable silence. Our breaths in perfect sync. We got to a part of the path that was more crowded. I was slowly moving behind Bella when a burly man bumped into me, causing me to bump in my Bella. She stumbled and fell onto the ground with a sickening pop.
"Bella!"
A/N: Cliffy. Kind of…sort of…okay, yeah. They made some strides in their relationship. Physical relationship. Edward and Demetri met and Bella's clumsiness reared its ugly head. Leave me love…