I owe you guys a huge apology. I'm sorry it has taken me so long to get this chapter posted. It just didn't want to come out and after several attempts and scrapping them, I just realized I needed to walk away from it for a bit. I found it a lot easier once I had taken a break and think this turned out decent. Still not exactly what I wanted, but I'm satisfied.

During my "break" from this story, I did write for two contests that are open for voting as we speak. I'll post the links below. I know you want to get reading!

AN: I don't own Twilight.

Chapter 12

Fireworks

"Then I did the simplest thing in the world. I leaned down... and kissed him. And the world cracked open."

~Agnes de Mille

BPOV

The first thing I noticed when I opened my eyes was how well rested I felt. I had actually slept…the entire night. No dreams, no tossing and turning, no nothing. It was like as soon as I hit the pillow my brain finally shut down and let me escape from the constant turmoil I had been in for the past few weeks.

Weeks? Try years.

Needless to say it felt really, really good.

After indulging in a full body stretch, my mind began to replay the events of the previous day. Now it seems like all the worrying had been for nothing. Charlie had been so understanding and determined to help me out of this mess. Edward was…well he was just Edward. Unconditionally supportive. It made me sigh just thinking about it. He was wonderful and for some convoluted reason, he was interested in me. If I were being honest, I was interested in him too. Now that my entire story was out in the open and I was on the cusp of moving forward with my life, I felt that maybe I could start showing him some of this interest. He was always showing me, I wanted to reciprocate a little bit.

Little bit my ass. You just want to kiss the gentleman right out of that boy.

God, that was true, but the Debbie Downer in me was reminding myself that I was still fucking married. It would not be fair to Edward to act like I was available when really that wasn't the case. I mean, I hated James and I did not feel one ounce of obligation or accountability towards him, but legally he was still my husband. For now.

I put that bag of disappointment aside for the time being as I was sure it was just about time for me to get ready for my shift at the diner. I was a little nervous about going in today. I had told Edward that he could tell his parents, Alice, Jasper, Emmett, and Rosalie everything for I knew that my little meltdown and abrupt departure from the barbeque had them worried. Edward made it clear that it wasn't necessary, but for me it was. These were people I could see forming true friendships with. Hell, I already considered them to be my friends, but friends didn't keep major secrets like this. I didn't want it between us so I decided that they should know everything. I just didn't want to be the one to do the telling. It was hard enough the first time. Understanding my reasons, Edward has said that he would tell them. Which meant that when I went to the diner today, I would have to face at least some of them.

It has to be done. Better to just get it over with, now get your ass out of bed.

I stood up and caught a glance at my alarm clock as I stretched again.

Eleven-thirty? You have got to be shitting me.

Fuck! I was supposed to be there for nine. I cursed again as I threw on some clothes and ran downstairs, practically missing each one on the way. Charlie was in the kitchen and went to say something but I flew by him, mumbled something about being late, and grabbed the phone. I was in such a panic I had to stop and rack my brain for the diner's phone number.

"Um, Bells. You can put the phone down."

"No, I have to call Esme. I can't believe I overslept. Why didn't you wake me up?" It came off more pissy than I had intended. It wasn't his fault I overslept.

"Because you don't have to go to work today." That stopped me. What did he mean? I looked at him in confusion. "Alice called earlier to tell you that she was taking your shift today. She said you needed time to decompress, whatever that means. I was going to tell her that she should talk to you but when I mentioned that you were still sleeping it kind of sealed the deal. She wasn't taking no for an answer, and I have to admit, I kind of agree with her. You had a hell of a day yesterday."

I felt my body relax a little knowing that I hadn't put Esme in a lurch. My heart squeezed a little at Alice's gesture.

"Yeah, I guess it was a little…overwhelming."

"How are you feeling today?"

"Honestly, much better. I feel like I actually slept."

"That's good. I hope you don't mind, I called my lawyer today…"

"It's Sunday."

"Don't worry, he's a good friend. Sam is going to put things in motion as soon as possible. We're going to get you away from…from…him. I promise."

"Charlie…I…I…" Caught up with emotion, I couldn't express myself. This man was so wonderful. He walked over and slowly so that he wouldn't take me off guard he raised his arms and pulled me into a hug. I let him. It felt so natural and I needed it in the worst way.

"Shhh…don't cry, Bells. I'm going to do my best to make sure this goes as quickly and smoothly as possible. I promise with everything I have he won't hurt you again, ever. Now just let me take care of this, let me take care of you. I have twenty-four years of catching up to do." His words just made me cry even harder. I was so lucky I had him. Charlie just held me in his arms in the middle of the kitchen until I was somewhat composed. I pulled away and noticed that I blubbered tears and snot all over him.

"You're shirt. I ruined it."

"Bells, you can't ruin flannel. It washes well." We both chuckled and the moment lightened considerably. I decided that since I had the day off I would start off with a quick run before showering. It had helped me clear my mind the day before and I knew it would be just what I needed today. This time, however, I would at least have proper clothing.

I turned to head out of the kitchen, but as I was leaving I felt myself compelled to say something to the man that was now my father. It needed to be said and it couldn't wait another second.

"Charlie?" He looked up from the sports section that he had turned his attention to.

"Hmm."

"I…I love you." His eyes softened and I was sure I could see them become glassy.

"I love you too, Bells. Always have."

o~o~O~o~o

The next several weeks flew by pretty quickly. Charlie and I had met his lawyer friend, Sam Uley to discuss my options. Due to my stupidity over the years, I hadn't been left with many. I had made many, many mistakes. I had no hard evidence of the physical abuse that I suffered at the hands of James. Sure I could tell you the story behind every scar, but I never went to the hospital and I had never tried going to the police. It was his word against mine, literally. Another mistake I made was falling for his tricks over and over again. It was true that he had manipulated me to get control of my parents' assets after they died, but I had been the one to sign the papers. That had been all me. The chances of fighting that and winning were next to none regardless of the circumstances. And let's not forget the fact that I was the one who walked away. Abandonment is the term Sam used. Apparently that was frowned upon and discredited anything I had against James.

This was not going to be easy.

My only option was to just file for divorce and hoped that James would just let me go. I wouldn't ask for anything, just the divorce. The problem is that I had to file in Illinois. Sam had a contact in Chicago that helped him with the logistics. He felt that it would be pretty easy to keep my whereabouts from him, but made me aware that I would probably have to make an appearance in Chicago for the hearing. The day he sprung that one on me I had crumbled to my knees in a full blown panic attack. Charlie had the foresight to bring a paper bag with him to the meeting. He helped me through it, getting me to calm down by reassuring me that I was not in this alone. If I had to go to Chicago, he would be right there with me. I was still uneasy about the whole thing, but if that's what I had to do to be free of my sadistic husband, then that's what I would do.

You just keep thinking that…

Once the initial meeting was over there wasn't a lot for me to actually do. Sam called often to keep us updated, but for now it was just a waiting game. Charlie took most of the calls and filtered it down to the basics of what I needed to know. I was more than grateful that he did that. It wasn't that I was uninterested in the status of my divorce. On the contrary, if anything I was too interested. At first I wanted to know every single tiny detail. It had completely consumed me without my knowledge and I finally realized that if I kept going the way I had been I was going to completely stress myself the fuck out. There were not enough paper bags in Forks to accommodate the number of meltdowns that I inevitably would have.

Divulging my secrets to Charlie and Edward had been just about the best thing I had done since I came to Forks. I hadn't realized how much they had weighed down on me like a ton of unrelenting bricks. It had been exhausting to say the least. Now that it was all out in the open I felt that the weight had been lifted up off my shoulders giving me some much needed relief. Add to it that none of my secrets hurt any of my new relationships, well, I was a new woman. I physically felt lighter. I had a job that I enjoyed, a father who loved me, and friends who accepted me baggage and all. And I was in the process of becoming single, a thought that made me down right giddy. To be free of James would be the icing on the goddamn cake.

Being single would mean you could be with Edward.

I started to sigh at the thought but abruptly stopped myself. That kind of thinking was going to get me in trouble. I could feel myself beginning to fall hard for Edward. I mean, what's not to love. The man was just about perfect in every damn way, but until all of this shit with James was settled, I could not move on. Edward deserved someone who could give themselves to him completely and for now that could not be me. I told him this…over and over. He just kept saying that he wasn't planning on going anywhere and I should just 'shut the fuck up.' Because I am a selfish bitch I decided to do what he said and just enjoy his presence in my life. It was near impossible to push him away because deep down I didn't want him going anywhere. I wanted him by my side. I needed him by my side.

Like I said, selfish bitch.

I had thought my past would have had him running for the hills but it was almost like he did the complete opposite. He became even more attentive, more affectionate, more protective. We spent a lot of time together and now that I wasn't holding back anything, I let him get to know me…the real me. I shared stories about my childhood, stupid things I had done, my hopes, my fears, my aspirations, and even things about my life with James. In exchange I was rewarded with a man who hung on my every word, laughed at all the right times, comforted me when I cried, and encouraged me when my insecurities began to cloud my thoughts. He got angry, down right pissed, at some of the things I had told him about James. During those times it was I that often had to calm him down. It made me feel good that I could do that for him but at the same time his reaction also reassured me that I was right in leaving James. I mean, I didn't regret it at all, but it was still nice to be validated.

Our relationship began to take on a whole life of its own. Above all else, we had grown to be friends, best friends. But there was always an undertone of the intimacy that I think we both wanted. Physically, we had not gone beyond anything but tender innocent caresses and hand holding, but somehow we found away to touch each other more and more as time went on. After awhile it felt as natural as riding a bike and I couldn't even imagine not having his touch and proximity to comfort and ground me. For me it was a reassurance that I was safe and cared for. We didn't really speak about what was happening between us. I think we both knew that there was just too much in the air to define anything at the moment, but as they say, actions speak louder than words. Along with the touching, Edward still came in every morning for coffee and pie and he still left me notes. Now, they were nothing but fluffy sweetness.

Your laugh is like music to my ears.

I want to make you smile.

My heart will miss you today.

You're pretty.

All of his actions were like little promises that said when the time came, he would still be there and we would figure us out. I really couldn't wait for that time to come.

During the first week in July the first step was taken in that direction. On July 3rd, James was going to be served with divorce papers. I knew it had been coming. I had time to prepare, but when the actual day came I was a fucking wreck. It didn't matter that this was all going down hundreds of miles away. I could imagine the scene as clearly as if it played out right in front of me. I could hear the paper crinkle as his hands shook with anger. I could feel the heat of his rage radiate from his body. I could see the icy glare that screamed 'I'm going to fucking kill her.' He was going to be pissed as hell. And he was going to come after me.

On that day, I went into work and tried to ignore what was going on half-way across the country. Needless to say, it didn't work. I dropped shit, forgot orders, and spilled things. I was so useless Esme finally pulled me into the back room to find out what the hell was my problem. Not wanting to lie, I told her what the significance of the day was. Before I had the chance to apologize, she had pulled me into a hug and gave me the job of scanning the back room for things we needed to reorder. She recognized that I wasn't in any condition to deal with customers but at the same time made me feel useful. I was so grateful.

A couple hours later I was just finishing the last touches of the list of restocks I had created when I felt a presence behind me. I didn't have to look. I knew who it was.

"Bella?" I turned around to see an amazing pair of green eye looking at me with concern. I tried to put my happiest face on.

"Hey. What are you doing here on your day off? Shouldn't you be catching up on your sleep or something?" It was my shot at being casual and it didn't work at all.

"Come here." His open arms were too much to resist and I flung myself into them and started to cry. For what, I had absolutely no idea. I just felt like crying.

"What are you doing here?" I sniffed once I regained my composure.

"Mom called me. Why didn't you tell me what today was?"

"It's not a big deal. That is I didn't think it was until I actually tried to come in and do my job."

"It is a big deal and you should have someone taking care of you today." The last thing I wanted was for Edward to feel like he had to take care of me. It was his day off for fuck's sake and I didn't want him wasting it on me.

"I'm fine, really. And I have to finish my shift."

"No, you don't. Mom called me to come get you. We both know that you should not be here. What do I have to do to convince you?" Once again I was amazed at how these people knew exactly what I needed. Still wrapped in his arms, I shrugged not really knowing what to say. Edward took that as an invitation to respond. "Come on. We're getting out of here."

"What? No. I can't. Esme needs me." I couldn't shirk my responsibilities.

"Yes, you can. And from what she tells me, you weren't exactly a productive member of the team this morning, Bella. She doesn't want any more plates broken." He chuckled but it was hard for me to join in. I had broken some plates today. Seven to be exact. I would have to have Esme take the cost out of my pay.

"Fine. In the interest of saving the dishes, I will leave with you. Where are we going?"

"It's a surprise."

o~o~O~o~o

Normally I am not a big fan of surprises. In fact, I despise them. But I was soon realizing that Edward's surprises were always good. His raw thoughtfulness always shined through. So when he took me to the Forks County Fair, I should have been surprised, but I wasn't. He brought me here as a distraction. A fun, carefree, perfect distraction.

Throughout the day we took advantage at everything the fair had to offer. We went on all the rides, which did make me a little nervous. I mean, they put them up and take them down so frequently. What do they do when they have left over screws? Good question, huh?

We explored all of the animal exhibits and went to see the year's biggest gourd. Edward showed off his mad dart throwing skills and won me a huge panda to go with the polar bear that Emmett had already gotten me. We watched the demolition derby and the pig races. We watched some of the 4-H competitions and talked to some of the kids afterwards about their animals. We ate cotton candy, fried dough, and all of the other cliché fair foods that make our mouths water and our hips expand.

The fair by day was extremely enjoyable, but Edward insisted that the fair by night was a sight to be seen. Apparently the whole place came alive. I had to agree with him while we were in line for the Ferris wheel.

"This was a great idea. Thank you. It is exactly what I needed." Edward had been holding my hand but gave it a distinct squeeze when I had expressed my revelation.

"I'm glad you're enjoying it. Look, Bella…" His thought was interrupted when the ride attendant took our tickets and secured the safety bar before returning to the line. When he was satisfied that he wasn't going to be interrupted again, he spoke low and confident.

"Bella, why didn't you tell me about what was happening today?" I looked down into my lap. I could hear the hurt in his voice and felt a wave of guilt wash over me. Why hadn't I told him? I tried to think but every reason I had that seemed somewhat valid before just seemed ridiculous now. This was Edward. He had been there for me through everything so far and been nothing but supportive. I shouldn't have kept this from him. He deserved to know.

"I don't know. I guess I just don't know how I feel about it myself. I have so many emotions. Relief that I won't be tied to him anymore. Fear threat he's not going to let me go. Embarrassed of being divorced at twenty-four years old. Regret that I didn't do this sooner. Overjoyed that I am finally going to be able to move on." I reached over and took his hand to show him that for me moving on meant moving on with him. "I just want it all to be over."

Edward scooted closer to me, if that were even possible, and put his arm around me. His other hand was still joined with mine in my lap.

"Don't think that I'm mad. You don't have to tell me anything you don't want to. I guess I just thought we were kind of in this together. I want to be here to help you with the ups and downs." The lump that was stuck in the back of my throat made it impossible to get any words out. I never knew a man could be this wonderful. I looked up into his eyes and tried to convey just how I felt.

You are amazing. How did I get so lucky? Please, keep taking care of me. I need you.

Time stopped as the moment refused to release its hold. At some point the Ferris wheel had stopped with us pretty close to the top, not that either of us noticed. It was only when I swallowed what was left of that lump in my throat that the spell was broken. Edward blinked and moved his eyes from mine down to my lips.

"Bella, I would never, ever push you into anything you weren't ready for, but I really want to kiss you right now. Please…" He drifted off as he pleaded with his eyes. I could feel my heart beat furiously in my chest. There was nothing in this world that I wanted more at that moment than to feel his lips against mine. I sighed quietly and nodded as I bit my lip.

It was all Edward needed. With his one arm still around me, he took his other hand and brought it up to my cheek. "My beautiful Bella. So trusting. So brave." Slowly and hesitantly he brought his face closer to mine. The last thing I saw before I closed my eyes was his pink tongue giving his lips a small lick.

And then I felt them. They were warm, plump, and oh so gentle. He started out slow and I moved my lips in time with his. It was perfect. He was perfect. I had never been kissed like this. It was not just a means to an end. It was a grand gesture all in itself. It held feelings of passion, desire, and commitment behind it. He increased his pressure and began moving a little faster. When his tongue asked me to let him in, I did so without hesitation. My heart wanted this. My body wanted him.

Slow down there, Bella.

That was my mind talking, but my heart and body outvoted it. My hand snaked around his waist so that it rested on his hip. I inched as close as I could get and Edward pulled me in tighter. Our kisses were getting more frantic, more desperate. It made me feel things that I hadn't felt in a long time. There were fireworks.

Literally.

All of a sudden a fireworks display lit up the sky cause us both to break apart quickly. Red, blue, green, white rained down as they exploded loudly in the air. In the glow of their light I could see Edward breathing heavy and touching his lips where mine had been just seconds before. His expression was one of sheer panic and I knew exactly why.

"Don't." I said firmly.

"Oh my God, Bella…I'm sorry…"

"I said don't. It was absolutely perfect and you have nothing to be sorry for." The relief he felt knowing that he hadn't pushed me too far was evident in his relaxing posture. To assure him a little more I wrapped my arms around him and rested my head on his chest. He put his arms around me and kissed the top of my head. We snuggled and watched the fireworks for a few more minutes before the Ferris wheel began to move again. Before we reached the bottom, Edward reached down and put a very chaste kiss on my lips.

"Happy Independence Day, Bella."

Happy indeed.

So there you have it. The source of all my angst. I hope you liked it.

I have a story in the Let the Games Begin Contest called Extra Innings. Major Leagueward and a sauna…that's all I'm saying. To read all the entries go to:

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