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Parallel Parenting - Chapter 11
Edward POV
"Cordie, Kassie," I whisper as I shake the girls. They both slowly open their eyes and frown at me.
"Aren't you two coming to help me start Bella's special day with breakfast in bed?"
Kassie nods at me. "She'll be so surprised," she gushes out.
"I think Alice's idea of not telling her about today was a great idea," Cordie adds with a smile.
"Me, too, but shush, don't wake her. Come on and help me make her breakfast."
The week has gone by so fast, and Bella's actual birthday seemed to have gone well. I took all four of us out for a family dinner where she was given her gifts. I bought her a large bouquet of flowers, and a bracelet; the girls gave her the matching necklace which seemed to make Bella happy.
It was decided between the girls and my sister that the theater tickets, dress, shoes, and her day at the spa should be kept a secret until today. Whereas, I have a good feeling she will like the theater and dress—the day at the spa to be made to feel like a princess, I am not so sure about. I get the impression that Bella isn't the kind of woman who chooses to waste money on herself like that.
"I was thinking we should make scrambled eggs, pancakes, and toast?"
The girls giggle as they nod at me. They giggle while mixing the eggs for the scrambled eggs while I mix the pancake batter.
"What shape would she like?" I ask the girls, knowing they both always want shaped pancakes.
"Hearts," both girls state together.
"Hearts it is," I say grabbing the metal heart shape form from the drawer.
Once the breakfast is finished and on the tray along with coffee, I hold it as the girls walk toward Bella's room. I wanted to share my bed with her again, just like we do when we stay at her home, but I couldn't find a reason to make it happen. I also had this planned and knew that it wouldn't be good to let the girls see Bella in my room, in my bed.
"Mommy!" Kassie yells at her and Cordie jumps on the bed making her spring awake.
"What– is there a fire?" Bella mumbles.
"No, Mommy, it's your special birthday day!"
"What, my birthday was days ago?"
"Yes, but today is a special day we planned for you. Today you get to be treated like a princess," Cordie says with a sigh and an almost dreamy smile.
"I'm a Princess today?" Bella turns looking at me, as her eyes move down stopping at the tray.
"The girls have a fun-filled day planned, starting with a good breakfast served in bed," I say placing the tray down over her lap.
She looks at me as if she's still unsure of what's going on. "Just eat up," I say to her. "Girls, go and eat your breakfast, so you can get dressed and go over to Rose's house."
The girls leave the room, and I turn looking at Bella. "Kassie asked me to arrange a day where you're treated like a princess—now just go with it." I lean over her and kiss her head. I smirk as I pull back. "I take it that I win at being the best at surprises?"
Before she can answer, I walk out the door. I only get to the end of the hallway when I hear her voice yelling.
"Hey! What? No!"
I join the girls and we eat our breakfast. I leave them to get dressed and check in on Bella. "More awake now?"
"What does this day entail, and why are they going to Rose's?" she asks and I smirk at her.
"The next gifts are coming, and all will be explained when you get them."
"Edward," Bella whines. "Tell me you didn't spend a load of money?"
"Hush, woman, and just enjoy what our girls wanted to do for you."
The door opens and the girls walk in. "This is your gift from Cordie and me," Kassie says holding out an envelope to Bella.
She takes it and looks shocked. "There are only two tickets," she says looking confused at the girls.
"Yes. Teddy's taking you," Kassie tells her.
"And we got you this to wear," Cordie carries on handing her the boxes with the dress and shoes in it.
Bella slowly opens it and looks stunned by the dress. "It's beautiful, girls," she finally says.
"Aunt Alice is ready to make you feel beautiful and relaxed," Cordie tells her.
"And Cordie and I are staying the night with Rose and Emmett, so you get the whole day to relax and be treated like a princess."
"Kassie, I could have spent the day with you," Bella tells her.
"We know, but this is your day," Kassie says.
"Come on, Daddy, it's time to get us to Rose's. I can't wait to play with E-man," Cordie chuckles, and grins at Bella.
"See you soon. I will be taking you to your appointment," I again kiss her head before walking out with the girls leaving a clearly stunned Bella behind.
By the time I have dropped the girls off, I am hit with a little guilt that I didn't ask Bella if this was okay with her.
I walk quickly to where I left her, seeing that she is now dressed and sitting on the bed, just looking at the tickets.
"I'm sorry," I say walking to her.
"What for?" Bella asks.
I pull at my hair. "It wasn't until after I dropped off the girls that I realized we dropped this on you and didn't make sure you were okay with it. This is your special day, but if you want to spend it with the girls then—"
Bella cuts me off by placing a soft kiss on my lips. Just like the last time I kissed her, this one, too, causes a strange feeling inside me, almost like my insides are dancing.
"Thank you. I know this is their plan and it would upset them if I didn't do it. However, I would like to see the girls before we go out tonight just so I can get my hugs and kisses. Especially since you all deprived me of them when you ran out of here earlier."
I nod at her and then return the kiss she gives me. I feel her smirk and pull back and just look at her. "You don't like me getting one over on you, do you?"
I shake my head at her. "Nope, I like things even, especially kisses." I hold out my hand and pull her to stand.
~PP~
After I drop Bella off with Alice, I go home and do some grooming of my own. It's almost six hours later when Alice calls saying that I can come and get Bella. I pick her up, and she looks amazing. Well, I think she always looks great, but she looks stunning today. We head over to Rose and Emmett's and spent an hour with the girls before heading back to my house.
I put on my best tuxedo and stand at the bottom of my steps waiting for Bella.
As she walks slowly down the stairs to me, my eyes run over her a few times. The last time we went out she looked sexy as fuck, but tonight she is beautiful, with a hint of sexy. As I look her over, I feel myself get more excited about tonight and having her in my arms.
"You look amazing," I tell her hoarsely as I hold out my arm for her to take.
"You look rather suave yourself," she responds.
"I have been known to clean up well," I tell her.
I help Bella into my car and drive us to the restaurant. The valet parks the car, and I hold out my arm for her as we walk into the restaurant. I give the hostess my name, and she seats us in a nice quiet place in the corner as I requested.
"Did you enjoy your time with my sister today?" I ask.
Bella chuckles. "Yeah, but I'm a little concerned about your parents."
"How so?" I ask.
"Well, Alice seems to be as horny as you are; I just worry that between the two of you, they either are bordering on deviant, or they only know how to raise deviants," she giggles.
I simply look at her and raise my brow.
"She spent most of the time talking about sex; nearly everything that came out her mouth was an innuendo or telling me things I wish I did not know about how well Jasper fulfills his duty as her husband."
I can't help but smirk. "Maybe she's innocent and you are the one who is horny as hell, and assumed it was all sexual?"
"Oh, I am, but she was clearly talking about sex – her sex life to be exact, and she even insisted that I get something that I have never even heard of done."
"And what would that be?" I ask now intrigued.
The interest I feel is ramped up tenfold when the faint blush appears on Bella's face. "Wouldn't you like to know," she says.
"Oh, Bella, sweetie, I don't just want to know, I want to see," I tell her.
"Maybe if you're a lucky boy and give me what I want, you will see," she says in a voice that drips pure sex.
I raise my brow and my eyes run along her body. I see her fidget a little, so I up the intensity of my stare. I can't help but think about removing her clothes slowly, and running my hands all over her sexy little body, kissing and tasting every inch as I go.
"Good evening, I am Harry, and I will be your server this evening." I slowly remove my eyes from Bella and look at Harry. I smirk when I hear Bella letting out a little faint sigh.
"Would you like some wine, Bella?" I ask.
"No, I don't want to be the only one drinking," she replies.
"Harry, is it still policy that a patron can leave their vehicle until the next day if they drink?"
"Yes, Sir, of course, and if you used the valet, your car is parked in a fully monitored garage."
"Thank you," I tell him and turn back to Bella. "I can join you, if you wish. I will order a car for the show and afterward. I brought you here because I know the perfect entree for you, and if you don't mind and trust me, I would like to order for you as well?"
"Yes, that sounds good to me," Bella states, and I nod at her.
I look at Harry and order a bottle of Dominus—it is a Cabernet Sauvignon and pairs well with red meat and hearty entrees. I know she will not eat beef, but I brought her here, because they have a wonderful portabella mushroom steak meal. I order her entree and prime rib for myself.
~PP~
Bella and I chat and laugh as we eat our meal. I am happy that she loves every part of it so far, and I can't help but smile. I watch her look out to the dance floor. Placing my fork down, I stand and move to her with my hand out. "Would you do me the honor of having this dance with me?"
She nods taking my hand as I lead her to the dance floor. I pull her close placing my hand on her bare back. We start to waltz around the dance floor, and I can't seem to remove my eyes from hers.
"Have I told you that you look beautiful tonight?" I whisper against her ear.
"You did earlier," Bella says and I can hear the smile that she's clearly wearing. "Not sure if it's a good thing or not; the last time we went out you said 'amazing and sexy.'"
I kiss her neck softly. "Oh, you look sexy, just a more stunning sexy, not to mention beautiful and gorgeous. The kind of looks that knocks a man's breath from his body when you smile at him. The kind that has a man wanting to see what's underneath those clothes. The kind of allure that scares a man shitless because they know it can't and won't be an easy task to handle what you can give them. Not to mention they would fear ever losing you once they had you."
Bella and I dance around the room, both keeping our eyes on the other. Three dances later, I take her back to our table knowing we need to finish our meal, so we can get to the theater on time.
~PP~
Bella and I walk into the theatre taking our seats in one of the boxes. During the play, I can't help but watch her. She is so captivated by it, and her expressions are so clear to read. Each one making her more beautiful than the one before.
When the play is over, I stand clapping along with Bella.
"That was more amazing than I remember," she says.
"Who did you go with to see it before?" I ask as we start to make our way out.
"My parents," she answers sadly.
Moving her closer to me, I kiss her head softly. As we near the front door, I can feel the chill in the air. I shrug out of my tuxedo jacket and wrap it around Bella.
"Won't you be cold?" she asks.
"Nope," I say with a wink. "I'll just snuggle closer to you."
Bella chuckles, but thankfully keeps my jacket on. It takes almost five minutes before our cab pulls up.
I help Bella into the cab and slide in close to her. Bella moves her leg that is near to me over her other knee, and my eyes go to her legs. I can see the exposed skin from the split along her thigh.
"You have long legs for someone so short," I murmur.
Bella barks out a laugh and I shuffle a little closer to her.
"If you like my legs, you'd love my hips—" Bella stops and gives me her sexy smile. "My hips are made for thrusting."
I swallow as there seems to be something in the air between us. Whatever it is, it's almost making my body tingle. It is like the feeling you get when you are tingling in a good way. The lust and attraction I am feeling makes my mouth water.
"I think I would need to see and check their durability to prove they're able to take a good thrashing?"
"It's been so long I think they're almost begging to be tested," she retorts, giving me a sexy smile.
My eyes flash to the cab driver who shows no sign of hearing us. I move a little closer so that I can talk into her ear.
"I have some skills in thrusting, if you think you're up for it, we could see who is the best," I growl with my lips close to her ear.
Having my nose so close to her neck, being able to smell the sweet smell she gives off when she's turned on, makes me start to kiss along her neck. My hand starts to stroke her leg making her hum in response.
"I swear, Bella, I can make you feel things you've never felt before." I stop kissing and look her in the eye. "I have the feeling you'll be making me feel something, too," I say. Leaning back toward her neck, my tongue comes out and licks a small area before I suck on her skin lightly.
Bella's hand covers my own that is on her leg. I feel a pressure on my hand, from hers, it's almost as if she's debating whether to pull my hand up her leg or keep it where it's at.
"We're home," Bella says making me stop everything.
I quickly pay the man and walk Bella into my house, the entire time keeping my hand on her back.
"I think I'll get changed out of this," Bella says.
"I'll help you out of the dress if you'd like," I offer.
"Only if I can help you out of your pants?" she counters.
"Agreed," I say as I pull her to me kissing her lips.
Her hands go straight to my hair as she pulls herself closer to me. I take hold of one of her hands and stop the kiss and quickly walk to my room. I shed my tie and jacket as we go. As soon as we're in the room, she moves back to kissing me and I fling my clothes across the room.
My hands go to the zipper of her dress as Bella starts to undo my belt. Her dress and my pants fall at the same time.
"You went commando?" Bella mutters into my mouth as she unbuttons my shirt.
Looking down, I see her standing in front of me in only a sexy garter belt and stockings.
"So did you," I mutter.
Kicking off my shoes, I unhook her garter belt. "As sexy as this is," I say dropping to my knees, "these stockings have to go. While we're testing our thrusting, I don't want either of us getting chafed by the lace." I take my time rolling each stocking down her legs. Standing up, I walk her to my bed, and help her onto it. Taking a few minutes to look over her body, I can't help but stroke my cock. I am sure there will be small flaws like one breast is larger than the other, but right now, I can't help but think I've never seen a more perfect body. When my eyes reach hers I see that she's looking at my cock.
"Don't worry," I smirk, "wait … change that—you should worry. He's large, and loves to delve deep into things," I say crawling up to lean over her body.
Bella giggles, but wraps her legs around me pulling me down to her.
"Well … I am going to have to have some proof, you both could be all talk," she purrs.
I lean over and grab a condom from the bedside table. Placing it between her breasts, I raise my brow at her. When she nods, I stroke my fingers through her warm and glistening pussy. Seeing how ready she is for me, I grab the condom and pinch the end, rolling it down my shaft.
With my cock covered, I rub it across her sensitive nub. I want to taste her, but I need to be inside her more. She moans loudly, and I move to her entrance and thrust inside her in one smooth movement. She is so incredibly tight. I stay still waiting for her to fully adjust, and try to hold myself from busting a nut immediately. When she moves her feet up to the middle of my back and hugs me closer, I know it's time to test out her thrust worthy hips.
I pull almost all the way out before surging back in causing my skin to smack against hers.
"Oh, fuck, yeah," she moans loudly, and I can't help but lean close and nip at her pebbled nipples.
When she moans again, I start to piston my hips hard and fast. She is moaning, and her hands are in my hair, scratching down my back, and grabbing at my ass. The way she is pulling at me, and moaning, has me climbing to the edge of my impending climax. When her hips start moving with mine to meet my thrusts, I can tell she is pushing for me to come. She's very good, and so wet yet tight. Before I know it, I can't hold back. Plunging deep inside her, my orgasm crests and I fall into blissful ecstasy.
I get up and rid myself of the condom. I walk back to the bed stroking my cock as it starts to harden again. I may be older, but I've never had stamina issues.
"Fuck," I hear Bella mutter out, and I chuckle.
"Are you just realizing you fucked yourself out of the first of many orgasms, or are you throwing in the towel?" I ask as I move to the foot of the bed.
She looks up and me and shrugs. "I still—"
I cut her off by pulling her legs so that she is at the edge of the bed. "I'm not done," I hiss to her as I drop to my knees and pull her a little more so her pussy is right in my face. I tilt my head and smile. This is the best pussy I've ever had, and now I'm going to taste it, I mutter in my mind.
"Oh, fuck," Bella hisses and I feel her body tense as I lick her.
Yet again, she seems to be trying hard to stop herself from falling over the edge. My hand comes down, and I thrust three fingers deep inside her, and bite down on her clit. Continuing to lick, suck and nip at her clit, I find that spongy place inside and tap at it. Soon she is thrashing about. I hold her to my face with my left arm as my right fingers continue to pleasure her. When her vaginal walls start to tremble, I pinch her clit between my lips and flick it with my tongue. She roars as her orgasm takes over and her body shakes as she pants and moans.
I get up on the bed and move her up to the pillows. I grin looking at her as she slowly comes down from her high. I can't hold back my smirk, knowing I just made her orgasm so hard she's still stunned. I lightly stroke my fingers over her still hypersensitive skin until she stops panting and trembling.
"So, what did you think about that?" I ask in a cocky tone.
"My turn," she says with an arched brow.
I just look at her as she moves to her knees and pushes me down on the bed. Her eyes go to my cock which is fully hard after tasting her. I think it's harder after licking her than I've ever been before. She gives me a smile and then leans down wrapping her lips around it.
"Fuck, Baby," I hum as my hand goes to her head. "Oh, yeah, just like that," I moan as she takes me deep down her throat. To say that I am shocked that she doesn't choke is unneeded, and I can't help but tell her how amazing she is. I try to hold out, but she does this little trick with her tongue, while rubbing circles on the area under my nuts. When she takes me in again and swallows around the head of my dick, I shoot my load down her throat.
Bella sits back up on her knees and gives me a look that shows me she's clearly pleased with herself.
"Oh, baby, this is not over," I tell her pulling her back to me.
It takes a whole twenty minutes of kissing every part of her to have me hard and ready to go again.
"You up for one more round?" I ask hoping she'll not hear the begging tone of my voice.
"Please, yes, please," she responds sounding the same as I just did.
I take my time with her this time, keeping her worked up. I have my hands everywhere while making sure I am hitting all the right spots. I send her over the edge into blissfulness, and after she comes down, I roll us so she's on top. As she rides my cock, I pinch and pull at her nipples, before pressing hard on her clit sending her over again.
I move us so that her back is to my front and we are lying on our sides. I set forth hard thrusts and continue pinching and teasing both her nipples and clit. This time as she spirals into a climax, she takes me with her.
I wake with a very naked Bella still wrapped in my arms. I remove my hand off her ass and push her hair out of her face as I study her. I'm not sure why but she keeps getting more and more beautiful as each day passes. When we met last month, I knew I was unsure of what to do and only spent time with her because of Cordie. Back then it was all for Cordie and Kassie, but now, I am not so sure anymore.
I know I want to spend time with her, and by fuck do I love her competitive side. Strangely, I don't really mind losing to her, more so when she's all cute about winning. There is something that sets me off when she tries to compete with me that make me horny as hell.
My eyes close as my lips close over hers. I hear a small hum and then her reaction of lips moving against mine.
"Morning," she says as my lips move to her neck.
"Morning," I reply with a smile, still kissing her skin.
"Someone is very happy this morning," she giggles.
"Well, I did give you four orgasms last night, which is your own personal best," I smirk.
Bella just looks at me and narrows her eyes. "That was a simple task, because I've been on the verge of an orgasm for almost two weeks. Also, let's not forget who gave who their orgasm first," she smirks with an arched brow.
"I was in the same boat as you, and I only got three orgasms total," I stop and grin at her. "Oh, hey, doesn't that mean I win?"
Bella shakes her head and rolls on top of me, making me chuckle. I quickly roll us so that she is flat on the bed, and I'm hovering over her.
"Sadly as much as I am clearly ready to take this a bit further," I say grinding into her. "We have to get up, shower and go pick up our girls."
Bella pouts at me and I quickly kiss her. "Not fair," she states. "But I understand; I know you men can only come once and then you need a break."
"I must have broken the mold in that case," I smile.
Bella just hums and I get out of bed, heading into my bathroom.
I use the bathroom and walk back in to find her lying in bed watching me. "What?" I ask.
"You're comfortable walking around naked in front of me?" she asks.
"Bella, we had sex most of last night. You pretty much kissed every part of me, even my ass," I tell her.
"I didn't kiss your ass, you ass," Bella says as she throws a pillow my way.
"Okay, you bit my ass," I clarify.
Bella just shakes her head at me, with a smile on her face.
"So, after everything last night, why would I cover up? Now you must get up and get dressed; I'll even turn away so you can. Though, I'm still unsure why you're suddenly so shy about showing me your sexy, hard, body."
Bella POV
I smile wrapping the sheet around me as I get out of bed.
"Why are you hiding what I have already seen, Bella?"
"You saw me up close, but not from afar," I respond.
Edward snorts making me frown a little.
"Beebee, Honey," he says as he moves to me. "A man has a good memory when they want to have one, especially when it comes to sex, or the body of a woman who's recently been in his bed. I can close my eyes and picture every part of you. I can zoom in on places around your body, and recall to you things I'm sure you doubt I know or remember. Like this adorable little birthmark you have right here," he says as touches my ass cheek. "You know the one that looks like a cock and balls."
I slap his arm. "It does not," I state, which only makes him laugh.
"Oh it does, and I think it's cute," he says.
"You think a cock and balls are cute; are you sure you're batting for the right team?"
Edward pulls me closer to him and I feel his cock tapping at my leg as if he is begging to come inside again.
"I think you're cute, so therefore, it's cute," Edward clarifies.
"Have I been degraded again?" I gasp faking being a little upset. "I'm now cute. I bet tomorrow I'll just be okay."
Edward's hand slides down my leg and I can't help but part my legs. "You will always be fucking beautiful, no matter what words I use." He touches my core, making me want more.
Suddenly he stops and moves away from me. "You were going to the bathroom," he says smugly.
"This is not over," I hiss hating he has gotten one over on me again.
I turn on the shower and step inside when the water is warm enough. I hear the door open and look around the curtain to see Edward. "Coming in to join me?" I ask looking coyly at him.
He chuckles but steps inside, pulling me to him. Right away his lips are on my neck as his hands roam my body.
"There is a part of me yelling we shouldn't do this, in case it affects the girls. But the louder side just wants to keep going and continue to win."
I feel my heart drop a little when he reminds me of the girls. "Don't worry. If you want it to stop after this shower, I will. We'll be fine I swear," he says.
"You don't sound as if you want it to stop," I say.
"I don't, but I don't want the girls or you to be hurt," he tells me and I can hear his honesty.
I turn to face him. "Swear that this," I wave my hand between us, "will not come between us?"
Edward just looks in my eyes and nods.
"I'm not saying let's date, or this is just sex. How about we merely take things as they come and see where we end?" I ask.
"Agreed," he answers.
I nod just a little, but there is a part of me that is worried that one of us will fall in love and the other will fall in love with someone else.
I swallow and look back in his eyes. There seems to be fear there also, and I think it matches my own.
"This is just us, no one else; we don't date or look for someone else. If we want to stop, we tell the other right away, agreed?" he asks.
"Agreed," I say. As soon as the words are out of my mouth, Edward kisses me.
I feel him smile just before he pulls back. "Come on, let's get washed up."
~PP~
Edward and I arrive at Rose and Emmett's place, and as we get out of the car, the girls run to us.
"We missed you," they both yell together. Edward and I catch them in our arms. After hugs and kisses, we let them go and walk into Emmett and Rose's home.
"Did you have a good time?" Kassie asks excitedly.
Before I can answer, Cordie is asking a question of her own.
"Did my Dad show you a good time?"
"Yes, I had a great time, and yes, your Dad took very good care of me." My eyes flicker to Edward who's just grinning at me.
"Did he now?" Emmett says and I know by his voice he has picked up on my innuendo.
"Why are you so surprised?" Edward asks cockily.
"Oh, I am not, just …" Emmett stops and looks at the girls. "A word, Edward." He simply looks at Emmett and then sighs.
"I'll be back; tell the girls about our night," Edward says.
I watch them go and swallow before placing a smile on my face, and tell the girls about our night.
Edward and Emmett join us an hour later, and just as he sits down, Rose pulls me up by my arm.
"Come and help me make dinner."
"Rose?" I ask as we enter the kitchen.
"Are you riding the bologna pony?" she says in a questioning manner.
"What?" I ask, wondering where she got that term from.
"Are you and Edward boinking?"
"No," I answer, but Rose just raises her brow at me.
"If you tell me that you are making love and are in love, I will bitch slap you, just FYI," she states.
I chuckle. "No need, and no, to making love, and no to being in love."
"Thank, God! I hate when people claim to be in love after two days," she mutters as she makes a start on dinner.
"That's because you're not a believer," I tease her.
Rose just rolls her eyes. "You're not derailing me; I know you and Edward had … sex," she whispers after looking around.
"What if we did?" I answer.
"Nothing, I guess, and I am not coming down on you, Bella, but I hope you both remember that there are two little girls who will be hurt if things go south. You two have to get along and stay on the same page. Whatever you two do, you need to make sure they are first and foremost in every choice you guys make going forward. You and he being friends, and being there for the girls are very important for them, and also for both of your own mindsets."
"We will, and we talked about it, Rose."
Rose sighs and moves to me. "Bells, I don't want to see you get hurt, and you're not the kind of person who can spare your feelings from someone who you're with sexually."
"We agreed this is something we are exploring, Rose. As for the girls, if I were to develop any ill feelings for Edward, I will not let them get in the way of what the girls' need from me, or us."
Rose stops what she's doing and looks at me. "You know there are other feelings that can get in the way, right?"
I drop my head as I feel her move next to me.
"It has been a long time since you felt love from someone that you were attracted to, so please just be careful," she says and hugs me.
"I will," I tell her hugging her back.
Rose kisses my head and goes back to making dinner.
"Alice talked to me about the party she's having next weekend. Did she say anything to you?" Rose asks.
I roll my eyes a little. "You mean the ladies only party at her shop?" I ask.
Rose chuckles but nods.
"Yes, I know about it. After she talked about it for about twenty minutes, she then spent the best part of the next six hours—as she held me hostage at her shop—talking about sex."
Rose barks out a laugh. "Are you going to the party?" she asks once her laughing has subsided.
"Not sure, I mean what do I say, 'Hey, Edward, can you watch Kassie so that I can go to you sister's shop and join in on a sex party, and treat myself to some new toys?' I mean, really?"
My mind moves on to new toys wondering if anything can be better than the sex we had last night. A part of me wonders if I can ever go back to feeling satisfied from masturbating. I shake my head and look at Rose. "I mean, really, Rose, I can't ask him that."
"But you can let him stick his toy in you?"
"Rose," I hiss. "That's different!"
"Is it?" she asks.
"Yes," I scoff.
"How so?" she asks.
I sigh and stomp my foot. "It's not okay, and fine I'll ask, but I am not telling him it's a sex toy party."
Rose just shrugs. "You don't need to; I am sure Jasper knows, and Emmett knows, too."
I groan which only serves to make Rose cackle again.
Dinner goes well with Edward agreeing to watch Kassie on the Saturday night, if I watch Cordie on Friday so he can go out with the boys.
~PP~
Edward and Cordie walk Kassie and me to my front door. I open it and Cordie and Kassie head to Kassie's bedroom.
As I start to enter, Edward pulls me out of my apartment and pushes me against the wall. He immediately starts to kiss my neck. "I have wanted to kiss you all night," Edward hums making me pull him closer to me.
Edward slows his kissing and peeks inside my apartment. "I need to work a little late tomorrow; can you take Cordie home for me?"
"I can, and I'll even make dinner," I say.
Edward smiles before kissing my lips again quickly and then steps back grinning happily.
We step inside as the girls are coming out of Kassie's room.
"Kassie, baby girl, I'll see you tomorrow," he says as he hugs her.
I pick up Cordie hugging her close. "I'll see you tomorrow, Deedee."
I hold Kassie's hand as we watch Edward and Cordie leave.
"Can't we move in with them?" Kassie asks.
I look down at Kassie feeling a little sad. "We have a lease here, Honey, and we need to see it through."
"After that can we move in with them? It's all I want for Christmas," she says.
I chuckle as I pick her up and carry her inside our apartment. "Our lease doesn't run out until the end of February."
Kassie looks at me sadly. "I really want to live with Cordie, and Teddy, too. He's really nice, and I like him."
"I like him, too, and Cordie is great, I would live with her in a heartbeat," I tell Kassie, hoping she knows that her wants are important to me, too.
"Did you really have a good time last night?" she asks with a tilt to her head.
"I did, thank you, it was a great gift," I tell her with a big smile.
Kassie smiles and hugs me close to her. "Can I sleep in your bed tonight?"
I kiss the top of her head as I smile. "You sure can. I have missed our sleepovers," I tell her.
Kassie smiles and then jumps off my knee. "Are you coming, Mom?"
I shake my head as I chuckle. "Yes, my sweet girl."
~PP~
There is a banging sound, and then my car makes a clunk-clunk noise as I feel a pull on the wheel. I have to fight it because the pull is heading into traffic not away from it. I press on my brakes and pull a little harder to the right on my wheel so that I pull onto the shoulder of the road.
"What was that?" both of the girls ask at the same time.
"I think I may have blown a tire," I tell them as I turn my head around to make sure they are both okay. "Stay right where you are, I'm going to get out and take a look," I say as I put on my hazard lights and turn off the ignition.
I walk around the car seeing that I indeed have a flat tire. I sigh and make my way to the trunk of the car. I open it and look for my tire only to discover the spare is one of those which is bolted to the underside of the car.
"Shit, I forgot that's where the spare is," I hiss moving back toward my door. I sit down in my seat and close the door. "We have a flat tire, and I need to call Rose to come and help me," I tell the girls.
"Will we be safe in here?" Cordie asks looking worried.
I look around seeing that there is a nearby cafe that might be safer for us to sit in until Rose gets here.
"Get your things and we'll go over there," I say pointing.
"Bella?" Rose asks, having picked up when I was talking to the girls.
I quickly explain what happened and where I am. I hang up and take hold of the girls' hands as we cross the busy street to the cafe.
"Okay, girls, pick out a quick snack. Rose should be here in about ten minutes," I tell them.
Both girls ask for a shake and a muffin. I am even more pleased when the drinks are delivered in a 'to go' cup. The girls start their homework and are making good progress when I see the tow truck from Rose's shop pull up to my car. I quickly pay the bill and look over to the car.
"Oh, my, God, Rose," I hiss seeing Mike getting out of the tow truck.
"What's wrong?" Cordie asks as she looks over to my car.
"She sent slimy Mike," Kassie mutters. "Can't we pretend we have left?" she begs me.
I shake my head and help them clear up and then head back to my car.
"There you are, Bella, I was worried," Mike gushes as he moves to hug me. I quickly turn my head so that his kiss that was intended for my lips lands on my cheek.
"We were just over there where we were safe," I smile trying not to show that I find him very annoying.
"There's my girl," Mike boasts. "Kassie come over here and give Mikey a hug," Mike says but like normal, he doesn't wait and just pulls Kassie to him. "You're looking so tall and grown up …" he says finally letting her out of his arms. "Oh, what's this?" he carries on in an animated voice, "Wow, I think it is a coin, how did it get in your ear?"
"It was in your hand," Kassie snaps at him as she wipes her face clean of the oil he has just rubbed on her face.
Mike just chuckles and turns to look at Cordie. "Oh, wow, you do look a lot like my Kassie. I am Mikey. I bet she and Bella have told you all about me."
Cordie doesn't answer him and he moves his hand to her ear clearly to pull the coin trick on her. As he's not paying attention to her, he doesn't see the clear look of horror on her face as she looks at his oil- and dirt-covered hand.
"Mike!" I yell as Kassie slaps his hand and stands in front of Cordie.
"She doesn't like dirt!" Kassie tells him harshly.
"What? What kid doesn't like dirt?" Mike chuckles and again moves his hand toward Cordie.
"Mike, she doesn't know you," I hiss at him, "And can you fix my tire so I can get home?"
Mike just stands there looking at me. "Of course, Babe, I'll be your knight in shining armor."
I groan as I roll my eyes. "I am going to kill Rose slowly for sending him," I mutter to the girls as Mike gets busy dealing with my spare tire.
"You ladies can sit in the car, I can handle this," Mike says as he shows off his muscles.
"No, I don't like people sitting in cars when the tires are being changed," I say.
"How's the teaching going?" Mike asks as he unbolts my flat tire.
"Good, I love it," I answer.
Mike looks at me grinning widely as Kassie mutters, I tap my arm giving her a look that says behave.
"Your tire's all fixed," Mike says happily.
"Girls, get back in the car," I say.
I watch them get in and pull out my wallet to pay Mike.
"How much?" I ask unsure of the cost.
"A date," Mike tells me.
I frown, and just look at Mike as he steps toward me, and I raise my hand.
"Look Mike—"
Mike cuts me off by pushing my hair behind my shoulder. "Come on, one date, Bella, we could really help each other out," he says with a wink. "I think I could help you … relax."
"I'm not entirely sure she needs your help with that!"
I jump and spin around to see Edward looking at Mike as if he's mentally going through the many ways he wants to kill him.
"Edward," I say feeling shocked that he is here.
"You must be Cordie's dad," Mike chuckles as he places his hand on my back and offers Edward his other hand. Edward's eyes move to Mike's hand as he takes his offer of a handshake. I step away from Mike and turn to face him.
"Mike," I say but he doesn't look at me, and just seems to keep shaking Edward's hand.
"Mike, Edward, stop it!" I hiss pushing their hands away from each other. "Mike, I am sorry, I've got a lot going on at the moment; too much to consider dating."
Mike's eyes move to me and he smiles at me. "Bells, I like you, and your kid. I can take both of you out, just give me a chance. I am sure you wouldn't regret it."
Before I can again turn him down, he walks away.
I sigh and look at Edward who looks upset, but now it's directed at me.
"I'll follow you to my house," he says and walks over to my car. I stand there watching him kiss the girls before walking back to his car.
"Bella, it's getting late," he says bringing me out of my stunned stance.
I get in the car and look at the girls who both look worried.
"Are you two okay?"
They just nod their heads but don't look happy. I start my car and look at the girls in my rearview mirror. "Sorry about Mike, he can be a little …" I stop as I try to think of a polite word.
"Slimy," Kassie says with a roll of her eyes. "I don't get why you just don't tell him a big 'hell no' just like E-man said to say," Kassie says.
I tilt my head at Kassie. "I think you may be listening to Emmett a little too much."
I pull up at Edward's who still seems to be acting a little odd. As the girls run to their room, Edward only looks at me.
"I am going to get changed," he says.
I frown again clearly hearing something in his voice. I follow him and get to his room just after he walks through it.
"What's wrong?" I ask.
"Nothing" he replies looking at me. "Are you staying for the show?" he snaps at me as his hand goes to his pants and he starts to undo them.
"We agreed not to keep things bottled up, and to talk," I remind him.
"Yeah, and I remember we agreed not to let our girls meet anyone we're interested in unless the other meets them first, and I don't remember meeting Mike."
"What, my car blew a tire, and he was changing it," I state.
Edward seems to snort loudly and I just look at him. "You tell me that your father was a cop, and he didn't teach you how to change a tire?"
"He did, but my spare was located under the car, and I …" I stop closing my eyes trying hard to calm myself so I don't start to yell at him.
"So, when were you going to tell me you had a flat tire? I mean, you didn't call me!" he states clearly mad.
"Why would I—"
"You had my daughter in your car," Edward interrupts and hisses as he steps closer putting his face close to mine, but now it's not showing anger just upset.
I swallow as I am hit with guilt. "Okay, you're right. I should've called you. I didn't think, and I thought I would be home before you. It was just a flat tire. I called Rose to come with the tools to help me."
"And she sent Mike?" he asks.
"Clearly she did," I say.
"Why were you chatting him up?" he asks.
"I wasn't," I hiss back at him.
"He asked you out," he retorts.
"I turned him down," I respond.
"He was hitting on you," he says.
"I can't stop that, just like you can't seem to make Maggie stop hitting on you," I state.
"I don't encourage her," he tells me.
"I didn't encourage him," I make clear.
"I don't have sex with girls who are getting it from other men or women for that matter. I don't want to be the in-between guy, or the guy who will do for now."
I close my eyes knowing I am not getting anywhere and he's now using cheap shots.
"Before we had sex, I hadn't had sex for four years, Edward. Four! And I don't sleep around, and don't worry; we won't be doing that again, because I don't sleep with guys who think that low of me." I walk away from him and close his door behind me as I do.
Feeling way too upset, I head to the kitchen hoping that by making dinner it will stop me from crying.
It takes me almost an hour to make dinner and Edward stays away from me.
I walk up to the girls' playroom seeing Edward is playing with them.
"Get washed up, dinner is ready," I say with a smile hoping that Kassie can't see that I am upset. It has been a long time since I've had to hide those feelings from her, and I feel a little out of practice.
I walk back to the kitchen and Edward sits down at the table.
"How was work?" I ask and he simply looks at me.
"Fine," he says with a smile, but his eyes are off me right away.
Dinner goes by as the girls talk, but it feels so frosted, just like it was when we first met.
"Mom?" I look at Kassie who's looking at me sadly. "Are you okay, you're not eating?"
I look down at my dinner which is mostly uneaten.
"Yes, I am fine. I just have a bad headache," I lie smoothly to her.
Kassie's eyes move to Cordie and I follow. I can see that despite the fact that Edward and I kept our voices low they know something is wrong.
"I'm fine, we're fine," I say placing my hand over both of theirs.
I get up and start to clean up the kitchen.
"Girls, why don't you go play, and I'll help Bella clean up?" Edward asks.
Edward moves beside me and I take the plates from him, he sighs when I don't look at him. "I'm sorry," he says.
I turn and look at him, and give him a smile "Me, too," I quickly say and go back to washing the dishes.
Edward's hand goes to my face, and he turns my face back to him.
"I am sorry," he repeats.
I place my hand over his and take it off my face. "I heard you the first time."
"Beebee," he whispers and moves his lips to mine.
I turn my head from him. "I don't think our game is a good idea anymore." I feel my heart sink as I say the words, but we can't play that game if he thinks that lowly of me. "You win," I say and move away from him to let him finish washing the dishes.
Before I get out the door, Edward has me spun around and pressed against the door.
"Bella, I am sorry, I get … got …" He stops talking and presses his forehead to mine. "Jealous. He was clearly into you, and I just …"
My eyes move to his to see he looks upset.
"Beebee … I saw you and was worried something happened. I was then pissed that he was hitting on you, and that you didn't call me. I should be the one you call to change your tire. I am sorry about what I said. I just … I like you a lot. I've had the best sex of my life with you. I would like to keep doing it with you. When you introduced us, I wanted you to say we were dating, that we were lovers, something that would tell him he couldn't have you …" Edward stops and kisses the side on my face. "I am sorry I fucked up. Can we please go back to being friends? I can't take the coldness of dinner, or the heartbreaking look on your face. It kills me, especially knowing it's the things that I've done and said that put it there. It's killing me, Beebee."
I look at him, having no idea that I was cold at dinner. I look away from him. "I don't fuck around; I'm not that kind of girl."
"I know that, I am not sure why I even said that," he responds.
I give him a nod and rub my head. "I should get home," I say and move only to have Edward pull me back.
"Stay," he says.
I just look at him.
"Please stay, let me make it up to you the right way?" he begs.
When I don't say anything he talks again. "Please, Baby, don't walk away from me angry. I know this is my entire fault. I shouldn't have been so jealous, but at least give me the chance to make things right?" he begs again.
I think over what he is saying, and I know a part of his being upset is the fact that I didn't call him. He's right on that part, I should have called. I had his daughter, after all. I know if his car broke down when he had Kassie, I would be upset if he hadn't called me.
"Fine, but only because my head is sore," I say.
"Go take a shower. I'll clean up in here and let the girls know. I'm so sorry," he says again.
I just look at him, he still sounds upset. "Just go, Beebee," he again kisses my head but his lips linger there.
I lay in the bath for over half an hour. A part of me expects Edward to come in and ask to wash my back, and when he doesn't, I feel disappointed.
I get out heading to my room, seeing that he has left me some pajamas, Tylenol, and a bottle of water.
I take them and get dressed before going to look for Edward, who is reading the girls a story.
"Night," I say to the girls when he is done.
"Night," they smile back at me and I give them kisses.
"Do you want to watch some TV with me?" he asks.
I shake my head at him, but he looks upset with my answer.
"Can we talk in my room?" I ask.
Edward nods at me, and we walk to the room I sleep in. He walks in first and I follow. Edward pulls me to him. He walks back pressing my back against the door, before I can talk, his lips are on mine. Both my hands and legs seem to have a mind of their own as they both wrap around him.
"I'm so very sorry," he mutters again. "I shouldn't have said what I did," he carries on sounding out of breath as he kisses me. "I need you. I need this," he states.
"New rule, we're not allowed to flirt with anyone of the opposite sex, and when someone flirts with us we just tell them we're taken," I suggest.
"Fuck, I agree. Hell, I'll get us rings, then we just need to show them our hands," he says as his lips trail across the skin of my neck.
I chuckle as Edward carries me to the bed. He lies me down and joins me. The rest of the night is spent between us talking and kissing. I feel like we are almost back to where we were before our fight, in fact, I would say we're a little closer. When I start to fall asleep, he holds me close to him. Just as I drift into a deep sleep, I know this is the place I want to be. With that thought I know I am in way deeper than I thought I was.
A/N: So ... that just happened. What did you think of Rose, and her knowing? Do you think Rose sent Mike on purpose, or was her already out and about? Edward didn't handle that as well as he should have. What do you think will happen next?
