Authors note: Another update! Not bad considering I have just finished a Christmas one shot too (the link is on my profile if anyone is interested)

This is my last full length chapter (as the epilogue will be VERY SHORT in comparison), so this is practically the last time I will beg for reviews! Numbers have been dwindling of late, so if you can find it in your hearts to review then I will be over the moon:) Your reviews really mean a lot, so thank you to everyone who has taken the time to read and review my story so far.

Disclaimer: I own nothing, blah blah blah. Except, one line from this chapter is a quote from the wonderful tv serious that was Roswell:)

Chapter 12.

Edward going away felt like the best dream turning into a nightmare. From day one, I missed so many little things; I missed falling asleep in his arms, the sound of his heartbeat radiating through me and his gentle melodic voice being the last thing I heard before sleep finally claimed me.

However, just because he wasn't around, didn't mean I felt neglected or forgotten about. Edward was thoughtful and considerate and always made sure I knew I came first. No matter where he was, what he was doing, or whatever the time difference was, we were in constant contact.

Even at times when I was down and particularly suffering from the separation, I was still the luckiest person in the entire world, because no matter how rubbish I felt right now, it was worth all the heartache and pain because I got to call Edward mine, and eventually he would be returning home to me.

It had only been a couple of weeks since he departed, but the distance was unbearable and in his absence I felt like a shadow of my former self. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure I appeared normal, chirpy even, to people around me, but those who knew me well saw straight through my charade.

As a result Rosalie and Alice were constantly rallying around trying to cheer me up. A few times they even forced me to go out with them when I was more than happy sitting at home moping. Thankfully it wasn't as bad as I thought and to some extent it did succeed in taking my mind off missing Edward.

Though in truth, no matter how distracted I was, I still felt empty, hollow and completely devoid of anything without him. I wished I could have been as independent, comfortable and happy in her own space as Rose was in Emmett's absence, but that just wasn't me. I realised that I was more dependent on Edward than was really healthy.

Some days were more of a struggle than others, but it was remarkable how on such down days it seemed like Edward had sixth sense and on such occasions, he would ring me immediately almost like he somehow knew and felt the same longing. Simply hearing his voice made me smile and he always managed to cheer me up instantly.

Phone calls aside, even from the other side of the world, he was a hopeless romantic and he sent a constant stream of gifts, flowers and letter. While such gestures made me feel adored and cherished, they didn't make missing him any easier to cope with and the time apart was tortuous.

Yet despite the distance, we still had an unquestionable connection. Inevitably it had it's imperfections but what we had became unbreakable, impenetrable, and irreplaceable. In some ways that made the time apart more bearable and ultimately his commitment to us only made me more proud to call him mine.

The press continued to irritate and plague me as they had since the second news of our relationship broke. Thankfully it was nowhere near as bad as what Edward had warned. I think he had prepared me for the worst, but in his absence I got a bit of rest bite from the media intrusion.

Sadly the same didn't apply to Edward, who was constantly hounded and surrounded by the paparazzi. I felt for him, especially considering how ludicrous their accusations usually were. The latest speculation linked him to vast numbers of beautiful women and it was especially amusing when it claimed to have exclusive pictures of the girl that he was supposedly cheating on me with.

I'm sure that it would knock the confidence of even the most secure of people, when faced with the image of this amazingly beautiful creature loitering around their man, but I knew Edward and I didn't doubt him for a split second.

Besides that, his expressions and mannerisms said it all. I spotted the familiar quirk in his eyebrow and the hand that was fisted furiously in his hair; an action he usually reserved for when he was especially frustrated. I should know, I'd been on the receiving end of such looks on the few occasions that we had quarrelled.

Even his eyes didn't hold their usual warmth and instead shone with anger and irritation. It didn't take a genius to work out the cause. I wasn't stupid, I worked in the media myself and knew all the tricks of the trade that were employed to make a story sound more exciting and ultimately more sales worthy.

And while it was infuriating, I got passed that a long time ago and rather than dwell on it, I focussed on what Edward and I had, rather than what others speculated about it.

The press aside, we had other issues to contend with anyway, because once you cut through the fairytale I never imagined it would be so tough to be apart from each other. As time passed by painfully slowly, his phone calls just weren't enough. The distance killed me and I was severely regretting my stubbornness when I had adamantly refused to let Edward pay for me to come out and visit him. Regardless, I had no option other than to struggle on.

One month on, Edward was only half way through filming, meaning it would be a further month before filming was wrapped up and he was free to come back to me. That prospect was unbearable, but I tried to put a brave face on it. It was the only way I knew of coping, however neither Rosalie or Alice were satisfied. They repeatedly attempted to coax my anxiety's out of me, but whenever they tried I just shut down.

One weekend when I was more comfortable slumming it in my oldest pjs with a pint size tub of Ben and jerry's watching cheesy chick flicks, they instigated a intervention.

"You know keeping it all bottled up inside is no good for you, Bella," Rose interrupted when the film we were watching came to an end.

"I don't want to talk about it," I sternly replied, sending her a look of annoyance in the hope that she would drop it, but upon seeing Alice's knowing gaze, I knew I was fighting a loosing battle.

"Guys, I don't mean to sound ungrateful, but I can't stand you all fussing around after me like this."

"We're only trying to help. Rosalie is just worried about you, we both are," Alice countered.

"I'm fine." I replied softly, but my resistance was falling and they knew it.

"No you're not. You're moping around and constantly staring off into space. You're acting all mournful and depressed. I know you miss Edward but this just isn't healthy," Alice declared.

The mention of his name, combined with the gentle hand she placed on my shoulder was all it took for my resistance to shatter.

"I feel like everything is falling apart. I thought I had it under control but I'm struggling. I can't handle it, I'm messing everything up," I confessed.

"Just let it all out Bella," Rosalie encouraged as she too came over to comfort me.

I shook my head dismissively. "I can't," I sighed in defeat before the floodgates finally opened.

"I'm suppose to be strong, but I never imagined it would be this hard. I miss him, I miss him so much it hurts." I sobbed uncontrollably while they tried to comfort me.

"Don't beat yourself up about it. From what Emmett tells me, it's exactly the same for Edward. He's miserable without you. He wants to be strong for you, but he's struggling too."

And while that knowledge didn't make my suffering any easier to bare, it did at least make me feel less weak and feeble.

"Of course, you really should be telling Edward this not me," Rosalie said, looking at me accusingly.

"She's right," Alice agreed.

"No way!" I yelled, in the process scaring the pair of them. "I can't tell him and neither can you."

"He would want to know," Alice said disapprovingly.

"I know he would, but what's the point in worrying him. You know what he's like; he would probably overreact and come running back to me." I could picture it now.

"And you have a problem with that?" Rose chuckled, shaking her head lightly.

"Guys, as much as I want him back, it's not fair of me to expect him to drop everything. I don't want him to think that I can't cope," I justified, but neither of them looked convinced.

"Please, just promise me you wont worry him unnecessarily," I begged.

"Fine, but I'm not happy about this," Alice stropped and Rosalie sent me an unamused scowl.

"You're the best," I declared as I hugged them both.

Alice's smile soon returned before turning mischievous.

"Good now pull yourself together and let's get you ready for a night on the town. You my friend need a drink," she excitedly exclaimed.

That night, I finally let my hair down for the first time in a long while as I had a long overdue boozy night out with my trusted friends. I drunk myself into oblivion, so much so that I vaguely remembered drunk dialling Edward too!

My memories were vague, hazy at best, but from what I could remember he seemed more amused than pissed off at being woken up at whatever unruly hour it was.

In fact, the only quarrel we had was when he got all mardy and demanding by ordering me to put Alice on the phone. I'm fairly certain we had another argument when she immediately confessed that he instructed her to make sure I got home okay.

At the time I took it badly, but looking back I felt bad for scalding him when he was only looking out for me. Regardless of my regret I'm sure I would be dealing the fall out from that later on.

It turns out that was the least of my worries and just because I had opened up to the girls, it didn't make it any easier. If anything the time passed painfully slowly and the separation was just as unbearable.

I knew Edward was equally unhappy, I could hear it in his voice every time we spoke. Just like me, he tried to cover his emotions, but I could hear the despondency in his voice that I'm sure he heard in mine.

It was only the promise of his upcoming visit that kept me together. Thankfully, filming was coming to an end so he was due some time off before starting work on his next role. And though he would only be back for a couple of days, it was better than nothing and I would take anything I could get. It had been almost two months since I had last seen him, but it felt like a lifetime.

The days leading up to Edward's arrival were strained to say the least, but all the heartache and misery was forgotten the instant he came home. Again, Edward was his overprotective self, insisting that I couldn't meet him at airport because of the scene his arrival would cause. I fought my case, but subsequently caved when he promised to give me a more intimate welcome at home instead.

The second I heard the keys in the door I leapt off the sofa and sprinted towards the door. Edward drew me close to him, kissing me hard and passionately.

"I love you, Bella," he said hoarsely, before his lips moved frantically over mine. Instantly his tongue found it's way into my mouth teasing me, as his hands roamed possessively and needfully over my body.

"I missed you," I said in between kisses.

"I missed you more," he replied and crushed his lips back to mine, devouring my mouth once more. I desperately clung onto him, which only encouraging him further. We were a mass of frantic hands and heavy breathing as we temporarily lost ourselves in one another, pouring all the pain and longing from our time apart into this one kiss.

Pulling away he clasped my head with both hands, gently tilting it backward as he leaned down to kiss me again, this time more softly and delicately, almost as though he was savouring the moment.

"It's good to be home," he grinned and leaned over to kiss my forehead.

It's funny, but the second he returned, everything went back to being exactly the same as they were before he left. It was like nothing had changed, we were comfortable and blissfully happy together and I felt whole and complete with Edward back besides me.

It helped that he was being extra affectionate. It was as though he couldn't let me go, not even for a second and the only time he left my side was to start unpacking a few of his belongings.

Not that I was complaining, but even now as I began preparing dinner for the two of us, he was hovering around me. I had just finished peeling the potatoes when I spotted the familiar script laying idly on the table besides me.

"You mind if I have a sneak peak?" I eagerly asked.

"Of course not, knock yourself out," he said smiling.

As I started flipping through the scrip, I could sense Edward watching me to gauge my reaction, but I was too enthralled to take my eyes off the paper in front of me. It all looked amazing, until my eyes narrowed in on one scene in particular.

I couldn't explain it, but I saw red and flipped. I don't know why I was so furious, this was Romeo and Juliet for crying out loud, so of course there would be a love scene or two. Regardless, I was enraged and the anger building up inside only intensified when Edward came towards me.

When he pulled me back against him and started pacing light open mouthed kisses across my neck, all the strain of our time apart proved too much and I let out all my frustrations out on an unsuspecting Edward.

"On no you don't," I scowled pushing him away, but he looked more amused than hurt and again made a grab for me.

I held my hands up in warning and narrowed my eyes at him.

"I mean it Edward, don't touch me," I fiercely declared.

"Bella," he breathed and seemed undeterred by my anger as he placed a hand on my cheek.

"Keep your hands to yourself Casanova," I accused.

He then shot me a bemused look before his expression turned from confusion to amusement.

"You're jealous!" he suddenly accused, grinning victoriously.

I couldn't deny it or stand the smug look plastered across his face, so instead I shoved the script into his chest.

At first he just laughed, but immediately changed tactics when he realised that I was pissed.

"Bella, you're being ridiculous and completely irrational to think that this means anything," he announced before harshly throwing the script on the table besides me.

"Trust me, you have nothing to worry about," he pleaded as I sulked in silence.

"So if I was to go around kissing another guy then you would be completely fine with that?" I countered and a dash of anger flashed in his usually gentle eyes.

I knew it was petty and childish but I couldn't resist digging the knife in further. "In that case I will go see Mike," I threw back.

His face turned to thunder at the very suggestion. I don't think I had ever seen Edward look so furious.

"Bella, let's not even go there," he growled, looking outright livid with me.

"Oh, so it's okay for you, but not me. Double standards there don't you think?"

"It's a part of the job," he excused which only incited me further.

"So that means I should deal with it and be happy about it?" I said enraged.

"That's not what I meant and you know it," he responded shaking his head in frustration.

"I wont enjoy it," he sighed.

"I bet you wont, you're kissing one of the most stunning girls on the entire planet and you will have to endure it!" I stropped.

Obviously Edward had had enough of my stupidity and he stalked towards me, only this time I didn't fight him when he cupped my face in his hands and rested his forehead against mine.

"Bella, she's not the most stunning girl on the planet, you are. Don't you know what you are to me? What you're always gonna be? You're the love of my life, anyone else is always going to be second best."

Edward had me in his arms in a split second, and I weakened the moment his lips found mine in a tender, yet explosive kiss. My resilience faltered as his tongue found mine and we fought for dominance more aggressively than usual.

When we broke apart I still felt hard done by and Edward looked back at me questioningly,

"You're still not convinced," he observed.

"I'm sorry, but just because you temporarily dazzle me, you can't expect me to be happy about this," it came out more snappy than I intended.

Edward rubbed the back of his neck with the hand that wasn't holding mine, before he snapped, "What do you expect me to do refuse the role? Fine I will do it if it makes you happy."

"Don't you dare!" I screeched when I spotted him fishing around in his pocket for his phone.

"Not only will I be most hated women on the planet, but also the Domineering girlfriend ever." I complained.

Edward fisted a hand in his hair, a clear sign of when he was frustrated, and while I knew I was being ridiculous, I couldn't help it.

"I can't win, Bella, tell me what to do to make this right. What do you want?"

"You, just you," I whimpered disheartened. He was in front of me in an instant and I was in his arms a second later.

"Bella, you have me," he soothed.

"Not enough," I cried against his chest. We stayed like that for several moments, but eventually when my tears subsided he slowly pulled away. Taking my face in his hands, he looked at me intensely. I could see the torment in his eyes.

"I know how you feel Bella,. This separation kills me too, but what can I to do to make this better?" he asked leaning his forehead against mine.

"I don't know," I admitted down beaten. "I just miss you so much, it hurts to breathe, it hurts even being besides you knowing that I have to let you go again."

I clung onto him tightly, desperately trying to keep him against me. Edward didn't say anything more, there was nothing he could say anyway and instead he held me firmly, reassuringly until all my tension subsided.

Once I had calmed he led me towards the couch. I closed my eyes and wiggled into his side,his arms wrapping around me automatically. This was what I had missed the most; time for just the two of us together with no distractions or disruptions.

However, no matter how content I was at that moment, trouble was still lurking on the horizon, but for a while we both sat in silence before we finally admitted our own personal struggles. Edward was amazing throughout, always comforting and reassuring me that I wasn't alone in my struggle. He even encouraged me to vent out my real frustrations rather than hiding behind other issues.

"Seriously, the first moment anything bothers you I want to hear about it. No more hiding your emotions from me, you hear me? I'm only a phone call away," he reiterated.

I nodded back weakly and snuggled against him, deciding right there and then that I would stop worrying.

Now that I was free of my worries and concerns, the last week had been blissful, perfect even. Having Edward home helped significantly and all week, no matter how busy he was, he dotted on me. I felt awful for making him worry so, but at the same time I was touched by his concern.

However, some issues still remained unanswered and before another emotional farewell we had a much needed heart to heart to find a solution to our problems. One resolution being that Edward would reduce his work load- a suggestion I tried to revoke, but this being Edward, he was stubborn and unmoving. Unsurprisingly, he won and insisted that he was intending on reducing his work load anyway so that he could get back to London more frequently to spend time with both me and his family.

His only condition was that I came out to visit him while he was filming. Getting time off work wasn't a problem because I could submit my article via the joys of email, but I was still a little reluctant to say the least. Undeniably I wanted to spend more time with Edward, but it was the prospect of being in LA that was most terrifying. Although I was a city girl, I was by no means built to cope with Hollywood and the celebrity side of Edward's life. It never got any easier and no matter how many times I experienced the press, I still felt awkward and overwhelmed.

I'm sure Edward knew of my apprehension, but he assured me it would get better in time. I could only hope he was right.

In all honesty my first visit was actually rather exciting. Yes, it was over the top and brash but it was nowhere near as bad as I expected. Not everyone I encountered were conceited, drama types. Most were friendly and were fascinated by my pale skin and 'adorable' accent.

Of course, the paparazzi over there were just as relentless, if not more determined than the British press. We couldn't go anywhere together without being snapped, but Edward was always there to rely upon. It was still intimidating and slightly unnerving, but I would do whatever it took to be besides him, and as my trips across the pond became a regular thing the time apart was semi bearable. Add to that Edward often found the time to come home and visit me. I was certain he was doing it out of concern and to ensure that I was coping, but the truth was that I was far from okay.

I thought everything was going to be perfect, but I had no idea how much the reality of the situation would bother me. I had a glimpse of the life that I so desperately wanted, but so often it was snatched away when Edward had to go back to do re shoots, auditions or more read throughs. I was proud of him, really I was. He deserved his success and I should have been happy for him. And I was, I just couldn't help missing him just as much as before.

In a way seeing him more often made it all the more difficult. I wasn't stupid, I went into this with my eyes open. I knew it would be hard, I just never imagined it would be so difficult to constantly have to say goodbye to him. It got harder every time.

In the meantime we still spoke everyday, often more than once or twice a day, but that was never enough. It was never the same as having Edward besides me.

Though his latest project was drawing to a close, the next would follow pretty much straight after, but at least we had a week in between to spend together. Edward's flight was scheduled for the morning so by the time I finished work I knew he would be back at the flat waiting for me. That evening when 5.30 hit, I literally ran out of the office desperate to see him.

I wasn't disappointed and after fumbling with my keys I finally got through the door to be greeted by the sight of his suitcases by the doorway.

My excitement only increased when I heard light footsteps padding through the flat, shortly after Edward appeared in the hallway. My heart rate excelled, my cheeks flushed just at the sight of him standing there looking ruggedly handsome.

It may sound contrived, but in that single moment all the depression disappeared and I realised that I couldn't be without him any more. I would move to wherever he was.

I ran towards him completely oblivious to anything else except Edward. In all my excitement, it heightened my clumsiness, and hence I stumbled on one of his cases. Edward easily caught me before I reached the ground and drew me up against him at once.

"Careful," he warned before he wasted no time in capturing my mouth in a fiercely passionate kiss

We kissed until we were breathless, but even then we couldn't part. We were both too desperate for one another that we couldn't break the kiss. Instead, we gave up trying and headed through to the bedroom to celebrate his return properly.

Several hours later I was completely and utterly spent as I lay peacefully spooned against Edward. For a while I sat watching him, amused by the adorable little pout that appeared on his lips when I adjusted my position slightly.

He really was too perfect to put into words and most amazingly, he was all mine. I smiled widely as I imagined waking up besides him every morning. Despite knowing what I wanted, I was too nervous to say anything straight away. But regardless of my nerves, I couldn't put it off any longer and one evening when Edward had taken me to the same restaurant we had been to on our first date, I knew the timing was right. I would tell him my decision when we returned home.

Later that evening when I snuggled into bed against him, it was a case of now or never. The second I pulled away, I looked up to find Edward already looking up at me curiously.

My nerves kicked in and I stayed momentarily silent, debating the right way to go about it.

Clearly confused by my odd behaviour Edward leaned across, taking his weight on his elbows before placing a light kiss on my lips.

Drawing away from me, he arched a knowing eyebrow.

"Bella, if you've got something to say then spit it out." He knew me all too well.

"I've been thinking about a lot of things recently," I paused momentarily. "You know I love you, right?"

"I sure hope so," Edward responded and raised an eyebrow curiously. I'm sure he wondered where the hell I was going with this, so I quickly put him out of his misery.

I raised my chin determined, as I began, "I can't stand the thought of being away from you any more, so I was thinking that I could come and live with you."

There I said it, hardly the most eloquent words to come out of my mouth, but there was no taking it back now.

"You... You want to move to LA?" he appeared shocked and quite possibly apprehensive.

"You don't want me to?" I asked, suddenly nervous. In all of my own worrying, I never once considered his reaction.

"No, it's not that at all," he replied, reaching out to pull me flush against him. "I'm just surprised. You overwhelmed me a bit," his lips found mine in a tender kiss and when he pulled away his eyes probed mine,studying my reaction.

"You would give up everything for me? Your friends, your family, everything you have worked for? Your life here?" he asked disbelieving.

"You are my life now and I can't live without you any more," I admitted leaning up to kiss him softly.

"Besides, they're only a phone call away and they can always visit. I can deal with anything with you besides me," I said with a shrug.

"But I wont always be around Bella. Even if we are in the same country you would still be alone much of the time," he said though it appeared to pain him.

"I understand that."

"Do you?" he questioned.
"Yes, don't you want me to live with you or something?"

"Of course I do you. I just want to make sure you know what your letting yourself in for."

"I'm sure of us," I reaffirmed and his breathtaking smile returned.

He pulled me into a warm embrace and kissed my hair. "Good, because I'm tired of living without you."

}*{

Understandably, the next few days flew by in the blink of an eye with all the organising we had to cram in. Edward was due back at work on Monday so that left us only a few days to sort everything out. Thankfully, work were very understanding and offered to keep my role open to me on a freelance basis.

Fortunately that only left my packing to do before our final dinner party with all our close friends and family. Not to mention my dad, Charlie was coming along too.

I think Edward was nervous judging by the way he was constantly fretting and fidgeting. I assured him he had nothing to worry about, but he was still visibly tense. While I was finishing up the last of my packing I did my best to distract him by chattering away.

"I can't believe how easily everything has fallen into place. Work were totally fine about it. Obviously things will change a bit, but they are more than happy to keep me on freelance basis. Isn't that great?Are you even listening to me?" I asked, irritated by his silence.

"Of course I am," he coyly smiled, his attempt at covering up his nerves.

"I don't understand what you were worrying about in the first place. You don't even need to work anyway. It's not like I can't afford it," he said it so casually, but I was furious.
"You did not just say what I think you said!" I declared outraged.
"Why not?" he asked looking at me strangely.
"Edward, have you lost your mind? You know how I feel about you spoiling me and surprising me as it is, let alone if I was your scrounging, kept girlfriend," I screeched.

Edward meanwhile, seemed to find my anger amusing and he laughed for the first time since I told him the news of Charlie's visit.
"You're taking this the wrong way," he said softly.
"Oh really what other way is there to take it besides you trying to buy me!"
"Don't be so absurd, it was only a suggestion."
"A completely ridiculous one," I muttered before he kissed away my scowl.

When he pulled away he was smirking and god damn him, I wanted to kiss that ridiculously gorgeous grin off his face.
"I love it when you're angry, your eyes flash," he commented and I predictably blushed.
"Stop distracting me, it's not going to work," I tried to sound firm, tried being the appropriate word.
"Really?" He looked at me through his lashes and a teasing grin overtook his face. I scowled.

It looked like a challenge to him: His smirk widened and his eyes narrowed in on me like I was his prey. I was left speechless for a while, thoroughly dazzled and I nearly forgot what we were even talking about when he gazed at me in such a way.
"Damn it Edward!" I angrily exclaimed. "Stop dazzling me, it's not fair!"

"Okay, okay," he sighed, his eyes dropping in defeat.

He released me from his cast iron grip before leaning down to kiss my cheek lovingly.

"I'm sorry, I wont mention it again, but please lets not fight over this," he said bringing out his infamous puppy dog pout.
"Okay," I agreed and weakened instantly as his lips found mine once more.

One good thing to come out of our squabble at least was that Edward seemed a little less nervous and by the time it came to go meet the family he genuinely seemed quite excited about meeting my father.

Needless to say when I introduced Edward to Charlie, they got along famously. I wasn't surprised that Charlie gave me and Edward his blessing when he saw how happy we were together.

We enjoyed a wonderful meal with our whole extended family. Esme, Carlisle, Alice, Jasper, even Rose and Emmett made an appearance. It felt so surreal, happiness and laughter tinged with sadness. I knew the next few weeks would be trying at best and that I would miss them all so much.

As we all vacated the dining room and headed into the living room I took that moment to nip into the kitchen for a top up and a much needed breather. I managed to hold off some of the tears that were willing themselves out until I was alone. Or so I thought.

Hearing the soft footsteps behind me, I instinctively knew it was Edward. My suspicions were confirmed when his strong arms wrapped around my waist drawing me back against him.

"There's still time to change your mind," he murmured into my ear.

"Are you sure you want to give all this up for me?" he asked, sadness and regret lacing his words.

I turned around frantically, instantly pulling his face level with mine. His worry and concern was obvious.

"For you yes, so stop worrying about me," I ordered and moved to wrap my arms around his neck. "I'm fine Edward, better than fine. Besides, the way I see it, I'm not giving up anything. I'm gaining."

I didn't have chance to finish my argument before his lips found mine.

I was so caught up in the sensation of Edward's tongue aggressively probing mine that I didn't realise we had an audience until someone cleared their throat behind us.

My embarrassment turned to all out mortification when I discovered it was my father who had interrupted us. Edward released me sharpish and put some distance between the two of us- the traitor!

Though, I was slightly amused to see the slight blush on his cheeks. Not so much Mr Cool when caught out by his girlfriends father, ha!

My enjoyment was short-lived and soon after my attention was drawn back to a rather awkward and uncomfortable looking Charlie.

"Well Bells, this is it," he tried to sound jokey, but I could see the emotion behind his front.

Hesitantly, I walked towards him and gave him a comforting hug.

"Bye Dad," I whispered, as more tears worked their way out.

"Bye Bells," he replied, his voice thick with emotion.

He held me securely, neither one of us saying anything more, but that was always our way.

"Don't be a stranger any more."

When he eventually let me go, I felt Edward appear besides me, he comfortingly pulled me against him.

"Take care of her," Charlie said looking sternly up at him.

"You have my word sir," he replied, which seemed to appease him.

Needless to say those were merely the start of the tears that were shed that night. I was a mess after every goodbye, but most dramatically when the time came to say goodbye to the girls. They clung on to me for several minutes before finally letting me go.

"You better take care of her otherwise you'll have me on your case," Rose part joked, part accused.

"Rose!" I was outraged, but Edward patted away my annoyance.

"I wouldn't have it any other way," he said, sending her a look of genuine honesty.

I don't know where the time went, but after an emotional farewell we were finally on our way. It was all a bit of a blur as we headed to the airport before going through all the mundane tasks like check in and passport control, behind closed doors obviously.

Before the plane even took off I had fallen sound asleep against Edward's shoulder, and the entire flight I was out for the count. The next thing I knew we were in LA.

"Bella," Edward's soft voice whispered in my ear. "Time to wake up sleepyhead we're here."

Begrudgingly, I opened my eyes and started rubbing away the sleep from my tired eyes. Looking up I was delighted to find Edward gazing down at me, with the brightest smile plastered across his face.

"This is just the start of our life together," he affirmed before leaning down to plant a gentle kiss on my lips.

It was amazing but once you cut through the Hollywood fairytale, life in LA actually wasn't much different to back home. Thought we were living just on outskirts of town, the city was hectic and overwhelming at times. Don't get me wrong, our life wasn't always peachy, we were no way drama free. We had our fair share of fights and petty arguments as any normal couple did, usually over silly meaningless things, that looking back were stupid and irrelevant.

Then there was the constant attention, rumours and speculation that followed us around wherever we went. Regardless, we tried to keep to ourselves and maintained our privacy as best we could considering I was dating a sex god!

At first Edward was still fiercely protective of me, but as time passed he became more relaxed and loosened up. Nowadays he seemed much calmer, teasing almost. The last high profile event we attended together I was still uncomfortable with the attention, but one gentle squeeze from Edward instantly calmed me.

"This is still so bizarre to me," I confessed.

"You're going to have to get used to it because when you marry me you are going to be in the spotlight whether you like it or not," he replied, looking at me strangely. I don't know if he was trying to reassure me or distract me, but it worked.

And while it was shocking to hear him voice the M word aloud, I couldn't deny that recently I had thought about marrying Edward. It had taken a lot to get to this point and I knew we were in it for the long haul. Heck, I'd moved to the other side of the world for him.

We were solid and hopelessly in love and I couldn't have been happier with Edward, the only problem was LA. To start with it was fine because Edward was around most of the time, but as the weeks progressed reality hit when his workload was once again chaotic.

We had been in LA approaching two months, yet it got progressively worse. I was miserable, but I put on a united front as best I could, while hoping and wishing that things would get better.

I felt like a ungrateful cow, I should have been ecstatic, over the moon and content, but no matter how hard I tried I just couldn't settle. And regardless of how unhappy I was, I had Edward and that was the only thing that mattered.

I loved Edward and he undeniably loved it here. He was so happy and carefree and that was beautiful to watch. Sadly the same couldn't be said for me because the sad fact was that LA just wasn't home to me. I didn't realise how much I loved London until I was away from the city.

Add to that Edward was constantly being drawn away on various commitments didn't make the transition any easier. And though we were always in contact, at times I felt utterly alone on the other side of the world from my friends and family. The only bright side was that Rose was coming out to visit later that week.

After another dreary week with Edward away filming in New York, Saturday finally arrived and I eagerly met Rose at airport. The boys flight wasn't due to land until later that evening, so we happily caught up at the house. Rosalie was gob smacked and in awe of our home, which was a great distraction as I happily showed her around the house. I was half way through the grand tour when we heard the door slam signalling the boys arrival.

After we both eagerly greeted our men we sat content talking, catching up over what we had all been up to. But in a way it was worse having them here because it only highlighted what I was missing most. It was hard to see Edward so happy as he laughed and joked with Emmett.

Of course he was sure to make me feel included and kept me glued to side, kissed me throughout and sending me wicked smiles. Keen not to let anyone pick up on my inner turmoil, I talked to cover my upset, but it all became too much and in the end it proved too hard to sit and watch everyone all so happy. I had to leave before I caved, and after giving Edward a quick kiss I withdrew myself from his grasp and quickly excused myself, claiming I needed to make a start on dinner.

Once I made it in the kitchen I took a deep breathe letting out some of my frustrations.

I thought I had put on an impressive act, but despite my confidence Rose wasn't fooled as I discovered minutes later when she cornered me in the kitchen

"You can't carry on like this Bella," she urged.

"I'm fine," I lied.

"If you were fine you wouldn't be hiding in the kitchen now would you?" she arched a knowing eyebrow.

"It's just so hard. I miss you all so much." I must admit it felt good to finally get it off my chest.

"Then what are you doing here, come back to us," she encouragement.

I shook my head without hesitation.

"I can't I won't! I want to be with Edward and he loves it here," I argued.

"No, he loves being with you," she countered.

"Rosalie, can you give us a minute."

I froze, panic flooding me when recognised that voice. Momentarily I stood in silence as Rose quietly left us to it. I sensed Edward heading towards me even before he turned me slightly to face him. He moved closer to me and tightened his grip on my waist. I gazed up at him, my wide and panicked eyes quickly replaced with remorse and concern.

I felt like I had been sucker punched in the stomach by the devastated expression on his face. I couldn't look at him as guilt filled me. I focused on the floor, but he lifted my chin with his fingers so that I would look at him.

"Why didn't you tell me?" he asked.

"I thought it would get better in time," I offered by way of an excuse, but he still looked hurt.

"You need to be honest with me Bella," he said sadness lasing his words.

"How can I when you're so happy here?"

"Rose was right, I'm happy here because I'm with you. Whether it here or on the other side of the world, you're the reason. That's why it frustrates me so much to know that you're holding back. After what happened the last time I thought we had got past that," he sounded sad, defeated almost.

"We have," I weakly protested. Edward sent me the look.

"Okay, I'm trying. I just don't want to spoil it. Everything is going so well- too well. I'm scared to change anything for the fear that I will mess up and lose what we have," I confessed.

"You have no reason to worry. I'm always going to be here wherever happens."

He didn't give me a chance to question him because he rendered me breathless with a searing kiss.

"What do you mean whatever happens?" I was scared to ask when we broke apart.

"Bella, we can't stay here not now that I know how miserable you are here."

"What do you mean?" I panicked.

"I have a few commitments to honour, but we can be back in London as soon as I'm done," he said so casually that I was temporarily speechless.

Seeing my surprise, Edward cupped my face in his hands and rested his forehead against mine.

"I know this is sudden, but you are my priority. You come first over everything else." His declaration was so heartfelt that it moved me to tears.

"You can't sacrifice your life for me. You're settling," I accused.

"Nonsense, it's never settling when it involves you. Besides, I've been planning on move into the theatre for a long time now. I have a gap in my schedule so this is the perfect opportunity."

"It's still not fair," I said unconvinced.

"Don't you dare beat yourself up over this Bella, I want this really I do. You did the same for me and it didn't work out. Please, just let me do this one thing for you," he pleaded.

"Okay," I replied, forcing back a grin before he pulled me into his warm embrace and kissed my hair. I couldn't wait to tell the others our exciting news.

They were as delighted when Edward explained our decision to them. Between you and me, I think even Rose aka Miss Independent was also suffering in Emmett's absence.

}*{

The weeks flew by ridiculously quickly and soon enough we were on the plane heading home. Home. It sounded right but more importantly, it felt right.

Everything seemed to fall into place after that. I returned to work, and Edward immediately landed the lead role in a very prominent west end production. Okay so it wasn't a typical 9-5 job but his routine was certainly more regular than ever before. And though this new direction in his career was undoubtedly challenging, secretly I think Edward loved the challenges and rewards of facing a live audience.

On the home front too we had landed on our feet. To start we had juggled between my place and Edward's. Though neither felt quite right any more, having lived together in our own house in LA. Subsequently shortly after our return we started searching for a place together, and luckily came across a lovely house not far from Esme and Carlisle's home.

I can honestly say that since the move I had never been happier. We were back where we belonged, and the past few months had been the best of my entire life. I was ridiculously happy.

My joy only increased with the wonderful praise and accolades Edward received on the opening night of his show. I was beyond amazed and was beaming with pride at his outstanding performance. To celebrate we had gone over to Carlisle and Esme's for dinner, it was a perfect ending to what was a wonderful evening.

My only cause for concern was Edward, who had been acting strangely ever since we left the theatre. I will confess that it was unnerving to see him so unusually quiet and distant. Even throughout dinner he appeared distracted, often I caught him staring off into space like he was thinking intently, bordering on obsessively over something. More worryingly his brow creased, like they did when he was anguished or tormented.

Every time I gently nudged him or threaded his hand in mine he was still visibly tense. He tried to cover it by offering me his practised smile, but I knew better.

The entire evening he showed no signs of improving, if anything he got progressively worse.

By the end I was beyond anxious, especially when he abruptly got up saying he wanted to take me outside to talk. I was bricking it. A talk never sounded good, especially coming from Edward.

My concern only increased once we were alone outside and he started frantically pacing around the garden.

"Are you okay?" I asked, afraid of his answer.

"Yes," he quickly replied, but he was obviously far from okay.

When I approached and took his hands in mine he seemed reluctant to even touch me, let alone look at me.

"Edward you're scaring me. Is it me, have I done something wrong?" I offered. He looked back at me like I had lost my mind.

"Of course not! Don't be ridiculous." He actually laughed, which was a good sign, I think.

"Then what is it?" I pressed, but still he said nothing. If anything he looked more panicked, bordering on terrified.

Suddenly he removed his hands from mine and took a step away from me. Okay now I was worried.

"Edward you're killing me, what's going on with..." My words fell off and my breathe caught in my throat as he swiftly crouched down in front of me, and I stood motionless as he took hold of my shaking hands. Looking down at him I forgot how to breathe when I saw the love and emotion in his eyes.

"Bella, I wanted to wait and make this moment perfect for you, but I'm going insane. I don't think I can hold off any longer. I've wanted to ask you this for so long now. I've tired thinking of a million ways to ask you, but ultimately it comes down to you and I. From the moment we first met I knew there was something between the two of us, but never could I have imagined it would lead us to where we are now. I can't live without you and I don't want to."

He took a deep breathe seemingly composing himself before continuing,

"Bella, I love you now and I will love you for the rest of my life. If you will let me, I promise you will never have to doubt it."

I knew what was coming, but that still didn't mean I was any more prepared. I sucked in a deep breath the moment he uttered the words that would change my life forever.

"Isabella Marie Swan, will you marry me?"

Only the epilogue to go :( Is a review too much to ask for?