I'm sorry that the story hasn't been updated in a few weeks. But, some of you may know that we lost my dad after a five-year fight with vascular dementia. Things have calmed down a little now, I'm hoping to get updated every 2 weeks.
Chapter 10
Bella
I was excited to be in New York, and even more excited to see Edward again.
He wasn't expecting me until next week, but Luca was going away to Italy for a month. He wanted to make sure they settled me before he left. Senna had made sure I have everything I needed. She had become a mom in the three months I had been at their home. Julliard had permitted me to move into my dorm room early. I have Edward's address, and I was going to surprise him. He's been back from Italy for a week, and we've been speaking every day on the phone.
It was only a five-minute walk to Edward's apartment. What I hadn't expected was a luxury apartment building. I thought about calling him, just to double check I had the right address.
I decided to go in and ask.
Behind the reception desk stood a guy who looked like he was the same age as Charlie; his badge said 'Joe.' He stared at me, which made me uncomfortable.
"Hello, does Edward Cullen live here?" I asked.
"Yes, he does Miss.," Joe replied.
"Is it okay for me to go to his apartment?"
"Not unless your name is on the authorization list."
"I'm his girlfriend Isabella Swan, but it might say, 'Bella,'"
"Sorry Miss. Nice try, but you're not on the list. Why don't you girls give a new reason to get into his apartment."
"Does he have many women coming to his apartment?"
"More than I can count."
"Could you call him to ask if I can go up to speak to him? I'm from Washington State; he gave me his address, and said I could come over anytime."
He replied while laughing, "He says that to all of them. I can't let you up; it could cost me my job. You're a sweet kid, and I'm sure your mama wouldn't want you to be mixed up with Mr. Cullen and his friends. You'd be better to leave and forget everything he has ever said to you."
"Okay, I'll call Edward myself."
Pulling out my phone I called Edward's number as I walked out into the street, not wanting Joe to see me cry.
"Hi, sweetheart you're calling early," Edward answered.
"Do you have other girlfriends, I mean we never said we were exclusive, but I don't want to be a notch on your bedpost. I am a virgin, and I will not allow you to use me." I ranted. "I've been made fun of most of my life, and I thought you were different."
"Bella, slow down. Why do you think I have other girlfriends? I'd never use you or anyone. My mama has brought me up better than that."
"The man, Joe at the front desk of your building just told me that you have girls coming to the building saying they are your girlfriend to get up to your apartment. He said I should keep away from you and your friends."
"Wait, you're here in reception?"
"Yes, I got into New York yesterday, I wanted to surprise you, and now I wish I hadn't."
"Sweetheart wait there, don't leave, I'm on my way down now."
I slipped my phone into my purse, taking in a deep breath, trying to calm myself. I knew I was coming across as needy. The thought of being made a fool off was too much.
"Sweetheart, there you are. You had me worried when you weren't in the reception area."
"I came out for air, that guy Joe made me feel uncomfortable. Why was he saying those things to me?"
"I don't understand, but I intend to find out. Garrett moved out while I was in Italy. I told you he was the one who had girls over. I'll make sure your name is on the list of allowed visitors." Edward said as he brushed away the tear that had fallen down my cheek.
Edward took my hand as he walked me back inside.
"Joe, make sure Bella's name is on the list. Don't think I'm letting go of what you've done this afternoon. You had better remember who signs your paycheck," Edward snapped.
Squeezing my hand, we walked towards the elevator door.
"My apartment is on the 5th floor."
"I didn't realize you lived in a luxury building."
"It's just an apartment Bella."
"Do you live alone now?"
"Kind of; I have two friends, Seth and Peter, and we hang out. Sometimes they stay over if they have been working at my dad's restaurant. It saves them going across town to their homes when it's late," Edward told me.
We were silent as we waited for the elevator to reach the 5th floor.
"This way. I'll give you a key card to get into the elevator and my apartment door."
"Wow, it's so big."
"Yes, I'm lucky that mom found this place for me. Come I'll show you around," Edward said, grabbing my hand again.
"This is the living room. The view is stunning, and it's even better when the city lights are on at night," Edward said.
"Your piano is beautiful!"
"It was a gift from my parents for my eighth birthday. I have a smaller one at my parents' home."
"I can't wait to hear you play again."
"I will. I promise," Edward said kissing my nose.
"This is the kitchen; it doesn't get much use; the microwave has a good work out though. My parents' cook Carmen makes my meals and freezes them, and I microwave them."
"Your parents have a cook?"
"She's been with the family forever. When we go to my parent's house, you will meet her. Down the hall the door on the left is the office, it's not used often either."
"Why don't you change it and make it a small recording studio?"
"I never thought about that. Come on let me finish showing you around. To your right is a restroom, and the next room is a gym that doesn't get used as often as it should. This small room is the laundry room. Upstairs we have the guest bedroom with an en-suite. Across the hall is my bedroom with an en-suite and it I also has the same view as the living room. There are another two bedrooms that have only been used a couple of times."
"This place is huge, my dorm room is smaller than your living room," I laughed.
"I'm hoping you will spend more time over here than there. You can teach me how to cook just like you promised. I've missed you so much."
"I've missed you too. I can't wait to see your mom again. It was sweet of her to invite me to the ball next month."
"Which reminds me; I have a lunch date with my Auntie Di and her today. I'll call the restaurant to ask them to add a place at our table. She'll love that you came early."
"I'm sorry; if you want to go to lunch with your mom, I'll come over later."
"No Bella she will love the surprise."
~TTS~
"Thank you, for the ride, Seth," I said, as I waved goodbye.
"Could you let Marcus know Bella has gotten in town a week earlier than we originally planned?" Edward asked Seth.
"Not a problem man. It was nice meeting you Bella. Ask Edward for my number. My sister will be happy to help you with anything you need." Seth offered.
"Thank you, Seth, I will," I replied.
"This restaurant is one of my dad's investments. When Tony's father passed away, he sold it to my dad. Come on Bella mom's here already, and she is going to be excited to see you again," Edward said kissing me on my head, as he grabbed my hand.
"Hi Edward, isn't Garrett with you today?" Sandy the hostess asked.
"Nope, Garrett no longer lives with me. This is my girlfriend, Bella Swan. Sandy has a crush on Garrett," Edward smirked.
"It's nice to meet you, Bella. You must be the reason for the extra place setting. I'll be seeing more of you, I'm sure" Sandy stated holding her hand out.
"It's nice to meet you too, Sandy," I replied.
"You know the way Edward, it's your usual table," Sandy said.
"Hi mom look who came in early," Edward announced.
"Isabella, I can't believe you're here," Lizzy said. "Come and meet my cousin Didyme. This is Edward's Isabella."
"Hello Isabella, I've heard so much about you, Mio Dio (Dear God)," Didyme choked, as the color drained from her face.
I noticed Lizzy slightly shake her head.
"Marcus is joining us," Lizzy stated.
"Bella and I can leave if you want to have lunch with him," Edward whispered.
"There's no need for that Edward. Are you going to introduce me to your friend?" Marcus asked.
"Bella, this is Marcus, Didyme's husband," Edward introduced. "This is my girlfriend, Isabella Swan."
"It's nice to meet you Mr…" I said.
"Call me Marcus Isabella. Let's take our seats. I'm hungry," Marcus announced, as he reached over and kissed Didyme's cheek.
"How was your summer? Did I hear you went to Summer school?" Marcus asked.
"Yes, I did. I stayed in Seattle for the summer with friends, and I attended Washington University taking a few basic courses. I completed my general classes. I'll miss my friends in Seattle," I replied.
"Edward told us that your stepmother left your stepfather. I hope the police find her, stealing your inheritance is a low thing to do. Does Chief Swan still have your stepbrother? Riley isn't it?" Lizzy quizzed.
"Yes, he does. Charlie's life has turned full circle, its back to the way it was when I was a small kid," I said.
"What happened to your mom dear, I can tell you're from Italian descent, you have a beautiful complexion, and your eyes are stunning," Didyme inquired.
"Thank you; my mom died when I was two years old from complications during pregnancy. I don't know where she came from in Italy," I replied.
"Well, I can say is, you know how to choose a beautiful woman Edward," Marcus chuckled.
"I'm lucky she agreed to have coffee with me after her audition, and even more, lucky when she agreed to be my girlfriend." Edward gushed.
We fell into a comfortable chat while we ate.
"Oh, Bella! I didn't think you were coming until next week you should have called." Maggie screeched.
"Hi Maggie, I only arrived yesterday. I wanted to spend time with Edward, get my books for school, and do other mundane errands. I'll call before school starts, and we can have a coffee or lunch," I replied.
"There you are, lassie. I thought you had run out on me," said a giant of a man.
Looking up at the guy she was with; he had to be over six feet 4 inches, taller than Edward six feet 2 inches. He had fiery red hair and a thick Irish accent.
"If it isn't the Cullen's and young Bella. It's good to see that you have arrived in New York; you never told me she had gotten here Maggie," Liam smirked.
"I've just found out myself Hun," Maggie replied.
"How is your sister Siobhan doing Liam? I heard she had to have surgery a few months ago. Her stay in hospital was an extensive one I understand," Marcus asked.
"She is doing well; she has gone back to Ireland for a while to stay with our mammy. I must find her doctor to thank her. I'm sure she won't be hard to find," Liam said.
"I don't think it will be as easy as you would hope it would be," Marcus replied. I couldn't help thinking they were talking in code.
"I'm sure I'll see you soon Bella. Edward take care," Liam said with a grin.
"Edward, who is he? He made me uncomfortable. Is he a friend of your family?" I asked.
"No sweetheart he isn't our friend, he's a guy we met at a gala we attended once. He's been in New York for about six months," Edward replied.
"I don't think I could go anywhere with Maggie if she is with him," I answered.
"Once you start classes, you will be so busy you will be struggling to find time to see me. I could think of a solution for that." Edward countered with a wink.
I blushed as Marcus laughed.
~TTS~
Edward hadn't left my side since I had arrived in New York. His friends Seth or Peter gave us rides if we had to go out. Edward had an Aston Martin Vanquish, and it was his prize possession. It was a high school graduation gift, and I was the first person to ride in it. But he refused to let me drive it, stating I didn't know my way around and the traffic was heavier than in a small town.
The first time Edward took me to his parents' home, I hadn't expected a mansion. Edward assured me that it was his parent's money, not his. I saw Marcus while I was there, but I'd yet to meet his dad.
As I suspected the workload at school was heavy. I spent every day but Thursday and Friday night at Edward's apartment. Those two days, I stayed in my dorm while he worked and caught up with my written work.
It was a Friday night, and I could hear all the parties that were going on in the dorms. I had been sitting for the past three hours working on a thesis about "The psychological benefit of music and dance." I took a break as I had a cramp in my hands and legs from sitting and writing for so long. I stretched my body out like I would do before I danced. Grabbing my keys, and purse, I began to walk across the campus to get myself a coffee and a brownie.
I loved the coffee from the coffee shop across campus. I could smell the coffee before I even got to the store, the smell was enticing. As usual, the place was full of students sitting, socializing or standing in line for takeout. I took my place in line, and my mouth watered as I received my order. I walked across campus to my dorm room, taking a bite of my brownie. I heard someone shouting my name.
"Hey Bella," I heard the thick Irish accent. I felt someone pulling on my arm. "It's nice to see ya, lassie. I can give you a ride where are you going?" Liam asked.
"It's okay I can walk. I'm only going to my dorm. It's not far," I replied.
"Come on I won't hurt you. Maggie will finish work soon I'll give you a ride to meet her. I know she was hoping to get together with you. You've been in New York for over a month and haven't called her, even though she's called you." Liam continued.
"Without being rude, I'm not here to socialize. I'm here to study. I have to go, I'm meeting Edward in an hour," I said panicking as he was now towering over me.
"I know you're not meeting him. Do you know what else I know? Edward is in a bar with a young blonde. Did he tell you he was working? You're so naïve lassie," Liam chuckled.
"It doesn't matter what you say, I know he is working at a bar his dad owns. If you don't move, I will make such a fuss the cops will come," I threatened.
"I think Bella has said she wants you to leave her alone, Liam," Marcus said as he came up behind me. "Are you ready to go home, or do you want to go to Edward's? I'm sorry I was late picking you up."
"It's okay you're here now," I said slipping my hand in his, shaking. I hoped no one could see how scared I was.
"It might be better if you stopped stalking young girls or we might have to get a restraining order against you. Goodnight Liam," Marcus snarled.
I saw Peter getting out of his car. "I'm sorry Bella, Marcus. I got stuck in traffic."
"Well it's a good job I was passing, or I don't know what the fuck would have happened to her. Edward will not be happy," Marcus snapped. "Bella I'm taking you to Edward's apartment. You'll be safer there; they will have to get by security to gain access to his apartment. I'll see if I can get Edward to come home."
We rode in Marcus's car in silence as I was trying to work out what had happened. Was this boyfriend of Maggie's going to grab me from campus? But I couldn't work out why he'd want me. I felt sick, and I was still shaking. I was glad when we pulled into the underground garage.
"Come on Bella let's get you a sweet drink. We might have to look into getting you security for a while." Marcus told me.
We walked through the front door, passing Joe who was on duty.
"Fuck I didn't know you guys were coming over tonight, let me call ahead for you," Joe croaked panicked.
"I don't think you will Joe. Tony, stay with him until I get back and don't let him touch that phone. You had better pray that you haven't done what I think you have," Marcus snarled. "Come on honey let's get you settled."
Riding in the elevator, I had a bad feeling that Liam knew Edward was seeing other girls. I should have done as Charlie had said and kept away from the Cullen family.
I watched as Marcus swiped the card, unlocking the door. I wondered how many people had keys to Edward's apartment.
"I'm glad your home Eddie, I've been waiting for you," said a blonde who came down the stairs, obviously from Edward's bedroom, in skimpy underwear.
"I think I had better go, Marcus, this was a mistake. Could you tell Edward to stay away from me please," I muttered with tears spilling down my cheek as I turned to go out of the door.
"Stay where you are Princess. Are you trying to force yourself on Edward again Tanya?" Marcus snapped.
"Tommy get that slut of a daughter out of my sight. We will have words when I have sorted out Joe." Marcus bellowed.
"But Eddie told me to meet him here, so we can fuck. We've been fucking for years. He calls me his booty call," Tanya whined.
"I've never laid a finger on you and my cock has been anywhere near your skanky ass. Get out of my apartment." Edward roared.
"Tanya, you're a slut just like your mother; get your fucking clothes on now," Tommy screamed.
"But daddy," screeched Tanya.
"Now Tanya," Tommy repeated.
"Bella come here, sweetheart. I have never touched her do you believe me?" Edward asked.
"I don't know, I don't think it was such a good idea to agree to be your girlfriend," I said making my way to the door.
"Princess stay; you need to talk with Edward. I'll be taking care of Joe; these games are stopping today. I'm leaving Peter in the lobby until we can get someone else I can trust. Did you know Liam was trying to take Bella tonight? We must organize a bodyguard for her for a while," Marcus said as he walked out the door, closely followed by Tommy and Tanya.
"Do you want a coffee or something stronger?" Edward asked.
"Coffee please," I whispered.
"Come sit with me, and let me explain what's happened," Edward begged. "Tanya has been a family friend since we were kids. When we were teenagers, she always tried to kiss me, touch me and try to have sex with me. My mom has told Sasha her mother to keep her on a leash." Edward stopped speaking pulling his fingers through his hair
"Tanya doesn't want to be with me; she wants to be an important person. She'll do anything to be connected to the name Cullen. It will give her access to the prestige I have. She wants the money, which as you know isn't mine. I'm not interested in her, and I never have been, never will be. I am a virgin too. I've never been with anyone but Rosie and her five sisters," Edward said wiggling his fingers on his right hand.
"I had never kissed a girl until I kissed you. I need to take a shower. If you want to leave, go while I'm not here, and I promise I will leave you alone. If you want to stay with me, I'll come to you in the living room once I've finished. If you decide to leave, I'll understand. But remember I love you, always have and always will."
I watched him walk away towards his room with his head bowed, and shoulders hunched over.
Thank you as always to my beta EdwardsFirstKiss. Also, to Klicivinski and Carole for pre-reading for me. Any mistakes are all mine.
