A big thank you to coleen561 for editing this super long chapter!
Chapter 20
The Honeymoon's over
BPOV
"Oh… my EYES!"
I look up, startled to see Emmett's dimpled face. It is a mixture of disbelief and happiness. Before I get a chance to respond, I hear a growl from under the bed clothes as Edward struggles to put on his boxers.
"Get OUT!" Edward's command is so loud that it echoes through the room and into the hallway where Emmett stands grinning, perched against the doorframe.
"Uh-uh…no freaking WAY…this is TOO good!" laughs Emmett as he barges into our room. He stands next to our bed peering down on us with the biggest and stupidest grin I have ever seen on anyone, man or vampire.
"Sooooo…what have you two been up to anyway?" he asks conversationally. "WAIT…nope…don't answer that!"
His smirk is completely ridiculous and contagious. I find myself starting to chuckle, which causes Edward to snarl. This reaction causes Emmett to giggle like a thirteen year old girl, which causes Edward to make a sound that is somewhere between a choke and a growl. This causes me to snort…loudly. And then suddenly the three of us break into peals of laughter. Edward is downright cackling…he has never sounded more like a seventeen year old boy than he does in this very moment.
"So…DETAILS?" he asks his brother. Edward shakes his head curtly; indicating without words that our sex life is not up for discussion. Undaunted, Emmett verbally attacks Edward by repeating in an annoying whine, "Tell me, tell me, TELL ME!" Emmett continues to shout as he yanks Edward out of bed and begins to pummel him in the way brothers always do…vampires notwithstanding. I take this time to wrap myself like a mummy in the sheets, and sit back and watch these two idiots go at it. Edward is quick as lightening, but he is no match for Emmett's strength. Emmett soon has him in a choke hold and Edward laughingly cries, "UNCLE!"
Emmett's reaction to his brother's mirth causes him to stop mid laugh. He releases his half nelson and looks down at Edward, who looks up at Emmett and continues to chuckle. Emmett seems perplexed. He shakes his head as if confused.
"Who are you and what have you done to my brother?" he asks with a raised brow. This cracks me up and I collapse further into the bedding, laughing.
Emmett leans over, grabs Edward's face, and makes him look into his eyes. "So was it worth the wait?" he asks suggestively.
Edward pushes Emmett's hands away, climbs back on the bed, folds the bedclothes even more tightly around me (afraid to give his brother a free show, apparently), and gives Emmett a big grin.
Emmett raises one sinister looking eyebrow at him, and shockingly, my once shy and oh-so- prudish vampire, waggles his eyebrows at him in response. The look of surprise on Emmett's face gives way to delight and the next thing you know this giant bear of a man springs up and does a little happy dance right in the middle of our bedroom. Even though my face is blushing like an overripe tomato, I am completely enchanted by the love and pride I feel between these two brothers. Emmett is absolutely ELATED for Edward…and my heart pangs when I recall the part he played in bringing us back together.
"Wait a minute…how is it that you didn't hear me coming, anyway?" he suddenly asks mid jig. His dance comes to a grinding halt. Edward looks over at me for guidance. I shake my head softly and give him a small smile and a little shrug. I don't want to impose my theories on what is happening to Edward's mind reading just yet. I really want us to be able to sit down with Carlisle first and have a meaningful discussion.
"Ummm… I'm not sure," Edward finally responds hesitantly, traces of laughter still in his voice.
"You're not sure?" Emmett gives his brother a hard look and then looks back over to me expecting a reply. I shrug again.
"It seems to come and go," I reply casually. "No big deal…"
Emmett looks at me like I just announced that I was knocked up.
"No big DEAL! What are you….no big deal…REALLY? This is HUGE!" Emmett runs to the door, sticks his head out and yells, "Carlisle… come QUICK! And bring your bag! Bella broke Edward!"
This causes a big reaction out of Edward.
"Jesus Christ, for the love of all that is holy… Emmett…calm down! Nobody broke anything… Now go make yourself useful and get my sweats from the bathroom and Bella's jammies too," he commands.
"Her jammies?"Emmett murmurs, shaking his head as he heads to the bathroom. "Pussy whipped…" Edward picks up a nearby shoe and throws it hard, smacking Emmett in the back the head.
"Ow," Emmett deadpans without missing a beat.
I laugh and Edward turns to me shaking his head and rolling his eyes."Sorry, Love. Are you okay?" he asks worriedly. I nod my head happily and give him a small reassuring kiss.
Emmett returns with the clothing before I can blink an eye.
"Hey, I was only kidding; they're not back yet. I got here with Rosie a few minutes ago. We took the jeep and she's in the garage checking the fluids…you know how anal she is about maintenance. Carlisle and Esme should be back in an hour with Alice. They stopped off for a quick hunt."
Emmett hands us our clothing and has the decency to turn around as we dress quickly. As I am throwing my top over my head Edward takes a second to give me a quick kiss and whispers in my ear that he's sorry. I give him a little reassuring hug.
"Are you decent yet?" jokes Emmett as he turns back to face us with a grin. He unexpectedly climbs up on the bed and faces us.
"Hey….you're NOT kidding me…you really can't hear my thoughts, can you?" he asks in disbelief.
Edward sighs. "No, Em…I can hear your thoughts just fine now. In fact I can even hear Rosalie in the garage. It's only sometimes…like when Bella and I are…er….absorbed…that I seem to have trouble paying attention to outside noises."
Emmett face is serious as he looks to me for confirmation. I nod my head to show that he is being serious.
"Well…this is an interesting development…hmmm…yes….a VERY interesting development," he says thoughtfully as he proceeds to scratch his chin. "Just THINK of the possibilities….hmmm," he drifts off.
"Pfft! don't get carried away, Em…I'm quite certain I'll still be able to kick your ass admirably in both chess AND pool," Edward assures him with a smile.
Emmett cocks his head at me and whispers, "Uh, Bella…did he just say he was going to 'kick my ass?'…did I hear him correctly?" he asks stunned.
I nod my head. "Prep yourself Emmett…there's a new vamp in town and he says dirty words, and things like 'yeah' and 'umm' and 'hmm'…and EVERYTHING."
Edward laughs in embarrassment. "Ummm….I'm sitting right here," he attempts to remind us. "Fuck!" he mutters as he realizes he just proved my point.
"See…I TOLD you," I laugh to Emmett. Emmett returns my laugh at first but then his face grows serious. He leans over towards me in contemplation. Then, in a surprisingly gentle move, he takes my face in his hands, giving me a small kiss on top of my head and pulling me into his arms for a big hug. "Thank you Bella," he whispers into my ear softly. My eyes flood with tears.
"No, Emmett,…thank you," I whisper back returning his hug. As soon as I am able to get him alone I plan on telling him just how much his intervention with Edward meant. I need to thank him for taking care of Victoria…if it had not been for Emmett, I would not even be alive.
"Yeah, yeah…" he says as he pats my back awkwardly.
"Love you, Em" I surprise myself by mumbling my words into his shoulder.
He looks at me in delight and a crooked smile that is so like his brother's spreads across his face. (How have I never noticed that before?) "Right back atcha kid," he laughs, giving me a noogie on the top of my head. He crawls back to his spot on the edge of the bed.
I look over at Edward happily; he smiles broadly, and then gives me a little wink.
"Ahem!" a distinctly feminine, yet slightly acerbic, voice interrupts our heartfelt moment.
"Okaaay…this Hallmark card moment is officially over! Jesus Christ…open some windows will you? … this house is REEKING with SEX…Esme is going to have a fit!" Rosalie is at the door, grinning broadly. I duck my head into Edward's shoulder with a groan.
"Well done, Bella. I see you were smart enough to take my advice, hmm?" she says to me with a wink. My face is so hot you could fry an egg on it… gah!
"Uh-huh…that's what I thought. And I've really got to hand it to you…both Alice and I thought it would take you a LOT longer than a weekend to do it...wiping out a hundred years worth of virginity in one weekend …that's quite an accomplishment. " She cups her hands around her mouth and whispers sotto voce… "I'll expect full details later, okay bitch?" she finishes with a laugh.
I look up and nod my head weakly. Now it is Edward who groans in embarrassment. Rosalie and I both laugh. She gives me a thoughtful look, and a feeling of warmth comes over me. I realize that against all odds, Rosalie Hale is now one of my very best friends. My eyes water just a bit…she is also going to be my sister-in-law! She chucks her chin up at me, gives me a grin and looks over at Emmett.
"Emmett, get your tail out of here and let these two love birds have a few moments of privacy before the rest of the family gets home. I'm sure they need to put the fire out."
"What fire, babe?" Emmett asks, confused. "I don't smell any fire," he says looking around the room anxiously.
Rose gives him a hard look, rolls her eyes, and pats him on the head. "I was talking about the one in their pants, you dolt." Emmett looks at her and grins broadly, finally catching on. I swear he is more naive than me…and this makes me love him all the more. If I was allowed to chose the perfect guy to be my big brother his name would be Emmett McCarty. I LOVE this big goof!
Emmett gives Rosalie a once over and inhales the air deeply. A look of pure lust crosses his face and his golden eyes turn jet black.
"Yeaaahhhh…there is a fire in this room...and the fumes are really getting to me…you're right, babe. Let's go grab my special fire hose and extinguish those nasty, dirty, flames…kaaay?" he suggests hopefully.
Rose lets out a chuckle and walks over to the bed, gives Emmett a hand, and he hops off the bed. He stands next to her with a hopeful look on his face, and she leans in and gives him a quick kiss. They start to walk out the door, but she stops in her tracks and returns to the bed. Then she leans over and gives Edward a brief hug and whispers something in his ear that I can't quite hear, but I know that whatever she said makes him smile. He pulls her back for a bigger hug and says something softly back to her. When she leans back I notice that her eyes are a little glassy. She tugs his hair and ruffles it playfully. He looks up, smiling at her shyly through his lashes. I feel my heart squeeze…what a sweet and intimate moment. Aw!
"Okay… let's go play fireman, Emmett," she says seductively.
"At your service, Ma'am," he responds in a raspy voice. He scoops Rose up and proceeds to march out the door. Rosalie actually lets out a little squeak and then a purr. Huh! This oughta be interesting….
"We'll see you two down stairs in a little bit…and for God's sakes…OPEN the God damn windows before the others get back. The way you've got this house smelling, it might take weeks to pry Carlisle off of Esme…you know how he IS. Besides, I would like a chance to actually see Bella and have a conversation BEFORE school tomorrow. Jesus!" And with that she takes off giggling with Emmett down the stairs. I hear a loud crash, a long moan, and then thump-thump-thump….Ewww!
Edward turns to me and sighs.
"This is what I have had to put up with for the past 70 odd years," he groans. I laugh in response and give him a hug. He reaches for me and pulls me tighter into his arms, his lips searching for mine. I gasp into his mouth as the passion begins to consume us both.
BAM! A crashing noise is heard from just outside of Edward's room.
"MMM…..Oh, God…that's good…ooohhhh….."
Edward's lips freeze on mine. Apparently Rosalie and Emmett are praying…
"Ooohhhh….Jesus…Ahhh… oh, that's it, baby…aim your hose right here…."
I roll my eyes and chuckle. Edward lets out a little groan.
"Shower?" he murmurs against my lips.
"Yeah…hurry up before they reach the pearly gates," I laugh as he pulls me up and carries me to the bathroom. I sigh…how am I ever going to shower without him again?
Once inside the bathroom, Edward sets me down and turns on the shower. We undress each other slowly, and enter the massive and marbled shower suite. Edward adjusts the dual shower heads, and the water cascades over us; it's perfect and meltingly warm.
He stands behind me while the water drenches me from my scalp to my toes, and it feels so good…so inviting. But his lips… oh…his lips feel cool against my heated flesh as he kisses his way down my spine. I squeal when his icy hands squeeze my bottom.
"Edward! I thought we were taking a shower to get clean…Sheesh…Rose and Emmett are just down the hall. They can hear everything for crying out loud," I protest with a nervous laugh.
"Yeah, they can, Love. But they're too busy fucking on the stairs…" he murmurs in my ear, as he turns me around. He lifts me up and wraps my legs around his waist. I let out a loud groan and a shiver as I throw my head back. I cannot believe he just said 'fucking' … God, he's so sexy!
"Besides," he says, as he kisses my neck and runs his tongue from my collarbone to the back of my ears, "We have to take advantage of stolen moments like these. The others will be back soon," he then groans as he slides his erection between my folds. Oh GOD, this feels sooo good! I feel my hesitation melt away as he grinds against me. Mmmm….
"Please, Bella….I need to be inside you…want you so bad…" he pleads hotly in my ear.
Like I'm gonna say no.
"I want you too, Edward. So much," I say as he pushes himself deep inside me. I grab hold of his hair and moan deeply into the side of his neck as his hips begin to dance slowly against my pelvis. He is thrusting so deep, and it feels achingly good. I try to muffle my sounds against his throat but they echo off the tile loudly…my mmm's and ahhh's reverberate throughout the stall. I know I should be embarrassed…but I can't seem to stop. And from the sounds of his moans, I think he is having the same reaction.
"Oh, God…Bella," He whispers, his forehead pressed against mine. "I don't want this to end…not ever…" He looks into my eyes, and I put my hand against his face, caressing it gently. He removes one of his hands from my bottom and grasps mine, pulling it away from his cheek and kissing it softly. His thrusts are slow and measured, and I find myself panting to the beat. The pressure is building and the intensity of our impending climax is near. He whimpers softly in my ear, and I feel the wetness of my arousal drip down my thighs.
"I don't want it to end either," I say with a groan. "But I'm going to come…I'm coming…" I gasp as I feel the coil in my sex begin to unravel. I close my eyes as I begin to crest…
"No…Bella…open your eyes…look at me…I want to see your eyes…Oh, God…I'm coming too…mmm…so hard…," he pants. I open my eyes and see his staring at me intently…so black and hooded, yet so full of love that my heart feels like it's going to burst. I can feel him pulsating inside me as he reaches his climax…my own orgasm flutters and contracts around him. It feels sooo good…and he's right…I don't want this to ever stop. We gasp that we love each other…mouth against mouth…our words and breaths colliding till there is only one sound…only one voice.
Still gasping, he lowers to me to the shower floor, his mouth capturing my bottom lip and sucking it into his gently, then releasing it and running his lips gently over mine. We kiss like this for many long minutes. I place soft kisses on and around his mouth. He has a small cleft on his chin, and it's just so sexy and sweet. I want to lick it, so I do. And his jaw…Oh, God…was there ever such a jaw on a man? I kiss it softly as I work my way up to his neck. I have to stand on my tippy toes to reach…
"I love you," I whisper softly in his ear. He squeezes my behind gently.
"I love you too, Bella. I…I never knew it could be like this…I was alone for so long, and I didn't even realize how lonely I was. Then you walked into my life…and into my heart."
I chuckle lightly at his words.
"Yeah…I know…I'm being…as you say… 'cheesy .' But that's me, Love, that's who I am," he confesses shyly, ducking his face into my shoulder. I take his face from my shoulder and force him to look at me.
"I know you…I know who you are, Edward. I feel the same way, believe me. I've always been alone too. I know it's not anywhere as long as it was for you…but I never had close friends…I never even had a boyfriend until I moved here and met you. And even though I was lonely when I lived in Phoenix…I'm so glad that I never met anyone until you. I'm so happy that you were my first…my only…" I admit to him feeling a little bashful.
He takes my face between his hands and presses a kiss softly on my forehead. He wraps his hands around my back and my face presses into his chest as he nuzzles my shoulder. The water washes over us, and we are enveloped within its warm and comforting mist. Other than the pelt-pelt-pelt of the water, it is completely quiet and unbelievably intimate. There is a reverence about this moment that is so compelling and so profound that my heart swells, and my eyes fill with tears.
"This...this is what I meant when I said that I never want this to end, Bella. This bubble…our own little world…I know my family is coming home today. You have to go back to Charlie, and tomorrow we go back to school. But I can't let this go…I don't want to…I won't let it. This weekend has meant everything to me...everything…." his voice trails off. I look up at him then and his face crumbles…he lets out a small sob as he presses his face back into my shoulder. My heart plummets.
"Edward, shhh… What is it, Baby…what's wrong?" I ask as I stroke the hair at his nape, trying desperately to soothe him. His face looks so young and defenseless. I suddenly realize that, of all the changes we've experienced over the long weekend, this has been the most life altering: Edward has opened his heart and revealed his vulnerabilities to me completely…and not only that, he wants…no, he NEEDS me to take care of him. I rock him gently against my chest.
"It's just…I just can't help thinking about what might have happened to you if I had left Friday morning…I could have lost you…I could have lost everything," he chokes out. I continue to hold him and caress his neck. I take his face and look into his eyes and tell him I love him, and he nods his head briefly. I can see his Adams apple convulse a few times as he tries to gain control over his emotions.
"Edward, we can't dwell on what might have happened. Yes…you almost made a big mistake…but you didn't. You listened to me…to my words, and instead of closing yourself off like you always did in the past, you came back to me. You talked to me…not at me. You didn't try to make decisions for us…we made them together, baby. We were already in love…but until this weekend we didn't really know what to do with all this love that we feel for each other. And now we do…we have a plan. We're getting married…you're going to change me…we have a future together. And, yes…I know it's not always going to easy. I know we're going to have arguments and maybe even fights…but I trust you, Edward. I know you're not ever going to leave me. You promised me…remember?"
"Oh God, Bella…yes…I remember. I'm never going to leave you…you never have to worry about that, Love." He looks at me with such conviction that he leaves me no doubt about the sincerity of his words. I lower my head and kiss his chest, running my fingers softly through the coppery curls.
"We're strong enough to let other people into our world, Edward. We'll always have this…" I wave my hand between us indicating the love…the intensity that exists between us. He lifts my chin up and kisses me gently.
"Promise?" he mumbles against my lips.
"I promise, Edward. We'll find time to be alone…I know it won't always be easy, between school, our friends, and our family. But it's only for a few months and then we'll be married. I'll be your wife…" I finish off.
"Mine…" he growls possessively, as he pulls me even closer to his chest. "My wife…" he hisses loudly.
Okay…I almost came in my pants. (Of course, I'm not wearing any pants, but you get my drift.) I mean…caveman Edward? Can you blame me? Girl, PULEEZE… Damn, he is one sexy beast!
"Yours," I whisper to him, pulling him close. "And you're mine too…no one else's. My husband…" I purr. He lets out a small snarl, and I feel him grow hard as he presses his erection into my hip. I feel the passion begin to grow between us as he leans in and gives me a toe curling kiss, when suddenly…
"Jesus Christ, are you two done with this drama yet? You've been in there for an hour…for cripes sakes…get your asses dried off and get out here. Everyone's home now, and they're dying to see you both." Emmett's big mouth booms loudly, shattering our intimate moment and sobering us both. I look up to see Edward's lips twitch. Leave it to Emmett to add a bit of much needed levity to lighten up our emotions. We both begin to chuckle.
We'll be right out, Em!" Edward calls out with a sheepish little laugh.
"Christ…I HOPE so. If this is how it's gonna be…ugh…" his voice trails off disgusted.
"God…he really has got some nerve," Edward snarls, exasperated. "Remind me to tell you about the time he and Rose got caught acting out King Kong on top of the Empire State Building. Believe me…it was quite different from the original version. I imagine that poor security officer is still in Bellevue" he finishes with a laugh.
We hastily lather each other up and let the water rinse away the passion, but not the desire. There will always be that between us, of that I am certain.
"You didn't hear them come home, did you?" I tease as he shuts the water off and we hop out of the shower. He reaches for a large fluffy towel and begins to dry me off tenderly, carefully avoiding my injured arm.
"I need to redress this," he says as he removes my bandage. "We got it wet in the shower, and I don't want it to get infected." He reaches into the cabinet below the sink and retrieves an assortment of medical supplies. With a practiced hand he sprays a bit of antiseptic on the wound, and proceeds to wrap it in a bandage. And then, as has become his habit, he brings my arm to his mouth and gives it a small kiss. I look up at him, and he winks.
"There…all better," he says in a silly little voice.
"You didn't answer my question," I sing back to him playfully. "You didn't hear them come home did you?" I ask again.
"Nope…" he admits wryly.
"Huh…how's this going to work anyway? I mean, you'll be able to hear Charlie…right?"
He raises his eyebrows at me and huffs out a little sigh.
"I have no…"
"Idea…?" I finish his sentence for him.
"Right…no idea what so ever," he admits ruefully. "I guess we'll find out soon enough," he says as he gives me a kiss on the tip of my nose. "But I do know one thing. My family is downstairs waiting for us, and if we don't hurry up, Emmett is planning to kick the door down…and trust me, I have no desire to provoke him or Esme's wrath should that event occur. In addition, Alice will kidnap you for the rest of the day…and although I know she misses you, I really cannot allow that to happen," he informs me with another kiss as we head back to the bedroom.
We grab our clothes and dress quickly. I sigh…looks like the honeymoon is over. I reach for my brush, but he pulls it out of my hand.
"May I?" he asks. I nod my head lightly.
"I love brushing your hair," he confesses in a quiet voice, as he runs the brush carefully from my scalp to my waist.
"Why?" I ask, puzzled. It doesn't seem like that big a deal to me.
"For the same reason you like washing my hair, I guess. It's intimate…it makes me feel closer to you…" his voice trails off seductively. He runs his nose slowly from my jaw to my neck, placing small kisses along his trail. Mmmm…
Suddenly I feel very warm…like I've got far too many clothes on. I grab his hips and pull him closer…
"GET YOUR ASSES DOWN HERE!" Emmett's voice bellows from below.
"Emmett, what have I told you about using that kind of language in our home? Honestly, you don't have to be so crass…besides…you've used that particular word at least four times since we arrived home. Now go outside and gather some wood…and for heaven's sakes try to clean up your overt use of profanity!" Esme chastises him. Emmett mutters an apology as we hear the door open and close. I can hear Alice and Rosalie chuckle in response to her words.
And on that note…he sets the brush down, gives me a quick kiss, takes me by the hand, and we walk out of our bedroom. We square our shoulders and let out a big sigh.
The honeymoon IS over.
For now…
EPOV
Bella and I leave the sanctuary of our bedroom and proceed to walk down the stairs where my family has gathered. It's so bizarre…they are positioned exactly as they were Thursday last…the night of Bella's birthday party. I wonder briefly if this was somehow staged…sort of a do-over. It makes me feel somewhat shy at first. But then I feel the heat from Bella's blush and a strong confidence and the need to protect her sweeps over me. I do not want my love to feel self conscious…not at all. Before we descend to the landing, I can hear my family's thoughts.
Alice's thoughts are the loudest and clearest. She knows instinctively that I am searching her mind and she gives her thoughts to me directly and without any hesitation.
Oh, Edward…this…this is what I wished for you when I left you Thursday night. You're my brother and my best friend, Edward…if anyone deserves to be utterly and completely happy it's you. I always told you good things happen to those who wait. I promise you, Edward…you have nothing left to fear and SO much to look forward to…more than you or Bella could possibly ever imagine…
My eyes meet and lock on hers as I smile gratefully. Even though she and I have spoken to each other on the phone this weekend, I have yet to personally express my appreciation to her and Rosalie for their intervention.
Speaking of Rosalie, I must admit that I am overwhelmed by both her thoughts and her emotions regarding the relationship that Bella and I share. Whatever happened between these two girls while I was hunting in Canada Friday morning must have been life altering. Her thoughts towards Bella were kind and…sisterly. There was a definite sense of kinship between them, and it gave me a sense of relief, as well as joy. I so want Bella to be accepted by everyone, and let's be honest…if Rosalie takes an obvious disliking to someone, we are all miserable! But even more compelling was earlier when she murmured in my ear how happy she was for me…and that she loved me. This was quite moving for me as it was the first time in our 70 odd years of living as a family that she ever uttered those words to me out loud. It made me feel warm inside, and I echoed those words back to her sincerely, with a hug and a thank you. It was the first of many thanks I need to give to each one of my family members tonight.
I'm so happy…Oh, Edward, my boy…at LAST…you have finally come alive…
Esme's thoughts, though incomplete, are full of love and emotion. Honestly, as happy as I am for myself that I have finally found true love, I think I am almost as happy for Esme…no biological mother could be any more delighted for her own child. Her thoughts leave me glowing, as she leaves Carlisle's side to embrace Bella. I like the fact that she reached out to hug Bella first. I sense that she already feels that Bella is her daughter, which makes me glad; it will be very hard for Bella to lose Renee, and at eighteen she still needs a mother's love.
As Bella leaves my side to be caught between the hugs of Esme and the squeals of Alice, Carlisle approaches me.
"Edward," he says as he reaches for my hand, and then changes his mind to give me a hug. "I'm so glad you've decided to stay…so glad," he reiterates.
"I'm happy too, Dad," I say. He raises his brows just a bit; I rarely call him anything but Carlisle, even though for all intents and purposes I have always considered him to be my father in this existence. I can tell by both his reaction, as well as his thoughts, that he is pleased. I must remember to call him this more often in the future…he has always been the best man I have ever known…if anyone deserves this form of affection it is he.
Just then Emmett returns with the wood and sets about to make a roaring fire. The girls leave and go the kitchen. I realize that even though it is only Bella who will eat in there today, it seems to be the place all women, human and vampire, love to congregate. I can hear their excited chatter as Bella shows off her engagement ring, and the conversation quickly turns to wedding plans. As thrilled as I am to be getting married, it's times like this that makes me glad to be a man. I truly don't think I could take Alice's overt enthusiasm as she waxes poetical over the joys of Irish lace and French tulle. Poor Bella…
"So, Edward," Carlisle says, as he draws the brown leather club chair closer to the fire. "Have a seat…I have many questions for you, and I am sure that you must have more than a few for me."
"Oh…Yeah…me too, Edward," Emmett says excitedly. "I've been dying to ask…What's it like to have sex with a human, anyway? … I mean…how did you mange to pull that off? Christ, you were a hundred year old virgin for fuck's sake…all those years and years of pent up sexual tension and unleashed aggression… and then BAM! I'll bet the smell was even more intoxicating than her blood, huh? Jesus, how did you manage to ram it in her without KILLING her…hmmm?" Emmett rambles on.
Carlisle shoots him a filthy look, and I am too stunned to respond. Good Lord, he is tactless! As I prepare to launch a verbal assault on this big oaf, I hear Rosalie call him to the kitchen.
"Emmett, I need to have a word with you…now." Rosalie's voice is icy calm.
"Fuck! What did I do now?" He mutters as he rises at her command. I hear her muffled words, and his equally muffled "Ow" followed by an "Okay, okay…stop pulling my ear…I won't ask any more personal questions ….Ow! Please, babe…." He trails off, pleading.
Carlisle gives me a look and says, "Edward, perhaps we should go outside for a walk. That way we can have a little more privacy." I agree wholeheartedly and ask him to give me a moment to let Bella know that I'm stepping out for a bit. He goes out the door and waits for me on the porch.
I enter the kitchen, and Alice sings out…"Dum, Dum, Da, Dum…here comes the groom, he's skinny as a broom…" Everyone cracks up as they look at me. Bella giggles into her hands bashfully. I roll my eyes…this is going to be an awfully long nine months, that's for sure!
I go over to Bella and whisper in her hair that Carlisle has asked me to go for a walk with him. I ask her if it's okay to discuss some of the details that happened over the weekend. I do not want to have any conversation about us without her full agreement.
"I told you he was completely pussy whip… OW!" Emmett shrieks out as Rosalie stomps her leather clad boot down on his toe, hard.
"No…that's fine, baby. I'll see you in a little while then," Bella murmurs against my neck. I tip her face up and give her a soft lingering kiss.
Baaaaby? Aww! Oh…sooooo sweet! I'll bet he's a very attentive lover…Sigh….
Rolling my eyes at the thoughts that are emanating and reverberating in the minds of the Cullen women (not to mention the retching noises that Emmett is making in his head) I exit the room quickly.
Carlisle meets me on the steps. We don't say much as we begin to walk along the path that leads to the small bridge which spans the river on our property. Finally, we stop and he leans over the railing, pausing a moment to enjoy the feeling of sunlight on his face. The sun beams reflect off of Carlisle's face, and for a brief moment I see his true age…it's not in the form of wrinkles or saggy skin, but it is there in his expression and his eyes. He is so wise…
"Edward…I know that you have experienced many changes this weekend… I almost didn't recognize you when you came down the stairs a bit ago. You look like a completely different person altogether," he informs me in a gentle voice.
Confused, I look at him with wide eyes….No one else has mentioned that I look different…I put my hand to my face self-consciously.
"No, no…that's not precisely what I meant when I said you look different, Edward…it's your expressions, your mannerisms. You look…younger…happier…and if I am to be honest…more human…" he attempts to explain.
"More human!" I exclaim. "Is that even possible? I don't feel different…my heart's not beating…" I trail off awkwardly.
'"No, Edward…you and I both know that once a transformation to vampire occurs there is never a reversal. You're still a vampire, I'm sorry to say. What I should have said was that you remind me an awful lot of the young man I once knew in Chicago…oh, so many years ago. That boy…Edward Masen…Teddy as your mother called you…THAT wonderful, innocent, and hopeful lad…that's who you look like now," he attempts to clarify.
I look at him in surprise and begin to tell him about the morning that I told Bella about my sister Lottie…her birth, my love for her, her death…all of it; including my emotional breakdown in which I wept in Bella's arms. I tell him with some embarrassment, that when I cried, I had shed real tears…not venom, and that according to Bella, my eyes had briefly turned green.
I finish my story and take a big breath. My eyes search his face for answers, and my mind searches his thoughts. He is silent in both thoughts and words for many long moments, and then he finally speaks.
"Edward, I know you are looking for answers to this fascinating phenomena, and believe me…I wish I could give you them. But in all honesty, I have never heard of such an occurrence in all of my existence. I'll be happy to research this for you, but I doubt there will be much information to peruse," he says somewhat regretfully. He gives my shoulder a brief squeeze. He pauses for a moment and continues.
"Edward, if I had to hazard a guess regarding you shedding real tears, I would say that they were probably residual tears that were stored in your tear ducts…you never allowed yourself to grieve properly after you lost your sister. I remember your feelings of guilt and remorse, and later your overwhelming concern for your mother's mental health and emotional well being. But son, truthfully…I never saw you cry…not once in the three years that followed Lottie's death did you weep for the sister you loved and lost," he says quietly.
I look at him in astonishment…I believe his words to be the truth…I was far too consumed with guilt and shame to allow myself to mourn. I believe I must not have felt that I should be allowed the luxury of tears…I had only myself to blame for Lottie's death. Or, so I felt at the time.
"Edward, let me ask you something," Carlisle looks at me intently.
I nod my head in acquiescence.
"When you told Bella this story, did you feel better afterwards?"
A slight bob of my head signals my assent.
"And did she comfort you…did she give you the love and support you needed to put this tragedy to rest once and for all?"
Once again, I nod my head in agreement.
"Then that's all there is to it," he says to me.
"Okay…but… what about my eyes turning green?" I ask, unwilling to let the subject drop just yet.
"I have no idea, Edward. Perhaps it was a figment of Bella's imagination. Or maybe the light hit your eyes in such a way that it made them appear to be green instead of gold. OR…maybe they DID turn green momentarily…perhaps…as absurd as it sounds…perhaps the human Teddy was trying to make his long dormant presence known, both to you and to Bella. Regardless of the reason, Edward, the fact is you finally allowed yourself to open up to someone, and frankly I couldn't be happier. As I told you in my letter, which Alice assured me you read, no man should venture into our world alone. You, of all people, with your particular nature…so sensitive and so passionate…should never face this world on your own. I think," he says, putting his hands on my shoulders, "I think that Bella Swan has been, and will continue to be, the making of you, Edward."
I feel a lump grow in my throat and feel my Adams apple convulse a few times as I attempt to gain control of my emotions. I swear I have spent so much time weeping and staving off sobs in the past several days that I fear I am growing a vagina. I really must spend a few hours in the company of my brothers, I think to myself dryly. I hope to spend some time with them later this evening after Bella falls asleep, perhaps we can manage a hunt in the park. And speaking of brothers…
"Carlisle…where's Jasper?" I ask concerned. I realize for the first time that he had not arrived home with the others.
"He wasn't sure he would be welcome just yet, despite the fact that Alice assured him numerous times that that would not be the case," he informs me sadly. "Was he wrong in his assumptions?" he asks with an arched brow.
"Completely," I assure him without hesitation. "Both Bella and I want him to come home…neither of us harbors any ill toward him. His letter explained his feelings and conveyed his sincerest apology. Also, the wonderful bed that he provided…" I say clumsily. I feel suddenly bashful discussing the bed with Carlisle…it seems too intimate…too personal.
"Ahhh, yes…the BED…" he teases me gently. Forgive me, Edward, I simply cannot resist… His thoughts are both inquisitive and…dare I say…proud? He gives me a wink, and I cast my eyes down chuckling.
"That's good then, er… I mean about Jasper," he assures me. "Not the bed. Though I feel an almost, how shall I say? Paternal…need to ask…how are things going in that department, Son? I assume from the contented expressions of you both that you were…ahem…mutually satisfied?"
If it were physically possible for my body to do so, I am quite certain the blush I would be experiencing at this moment would rival any that Bella could produce. To compound my embarrassment and make matters worse, I find myself hardening at the memories of our recent trysts. Christ…this is mortifying!
I understand, Edward…believe me…I understand… Carlisle's thoughts are largely sympathetic. Regardless, it is still humiliating for me…I feel like an adolescent boy who is caught having a 'private moment' by his father!
"Edward, I know this is hard for you…ahem…difficult…" We both laugh at his double entendre. "But honestly…I couldn't be happier for you. There are no words to describe the joy a man feels when he falls in love and is able to physically express his love to his mate. But this leads me to a few concerns that I feel I must address with you."
"What would those fears be?" I ask, worried.
"Not fears, Edward…concerns. You have no need to fear, Edward...you have already managed to successfully prove that you are more than capable of controlling your bloodlust around Bella. The fact that you are also able to control yourself while being intimate speaks volumes regarding your control. But you have only just begun to explore the physical side of your relationship, Edward. I don't believe you have any idea of how difficult controlling your lust for Bella will become."
"What do you mean?" I ask, intrigued.
"Edward…surely you've witnessed the passionate relationships between your brothers and sisters, as well as between Esme and me. These feelings…the sexual lust that we experience with our mates intensifies dramatically over time. You and Bella are still in high school and she still lives at home. Have you any idea how difficult this situation is going to be? Vampire men crave sex like we crave blood…perhaps even more so. You and Bella are going to have to come to terms with your recent sexual awakening," he states as he gives me an intense look.
"I guess I hadn't really considered that it would grow exponentially over the next few months…"
"Not months, Edward…YEARS," Carlisle interrupts. "And it will be tremendously challenging for you not to give in to your…shall we say…baser…instincts. The fact that you will be returning to school tomorrow, alone, gives me pause."
"What do you mean, Carlisle?" I ask, truly puzzled.
"Other boys, Edward…human boys. Boys that will be looking at Bella…noticing her…desiring her…"
"Arghhhhhhh!"
I automatically find myself crouching in an attack mode…the thought of other boys even glancing at MY mate has my venom flowing like an untamed river. I snap my teeth reflexively.
Carlisle looks at me nonplussed. "Yes…and you've just proven my point, Edward." He laughs as he tries to lighten the moment.
What on earth am I doing? Carlisle's thoughts are soothing, and I find myself calming down, just as the shame begins to set in. Good Lord…I might have attacked poor Carlisle!
"Now, now…no need to be ashamed, Son. Your reaction was purely instinctual…the need to protect our mates and to…possess them is completely natural. We are both men AND vampires after all."
"So what do I do Carlisle? I cannot stay home and let Bella go to school without me…I need…no…I crave her company. Besides…you said it yourself…I need to be assured of her safety…that is of the utmost importance to me," I say empathically.
"Of course it is, Edward. My suggestion would be that you hunt as often as possible and spend time talking to your brothers about your concerns. Remember…they have experienced other men lusting after their mates too…yet they go to school and are able to co-exist amongst humans without killing every fellow who gives their girls a sideways glance."
"Okay," I mutter unconvinced. I had not even considered the fact that I would become all possessive and irrational when it pertained to Bella and the opposite sex. How could I have been so naïve? I remember full well how lustful and downright lascivious Emmett and Rosalie were when they first mated. Christ, THAT had been a ten year nightmare for me! It was unbelievable…they were so wanton and shameless in their need for each other that even Esme found herself asking them to move out and be on their own until they could harness their…err…feelings for each other. I roll my eyes and groan…
"Edward…let's not worry about it too much. Knowing you the way I do, I believe you will find the strength to resist killing those innocent boys at Forks High School. You are, without a doubt, the strongest willed vampire I have ever encountered. Besides…your ability to read minds gives you a tremendous advantage," he reminds me.
Yeah…about that…
"Er, Carlisle…that's actually another thing I wanted to talk to you about…" Carlisle raises his brow at me inquisitively.
I begin to tell him about all of my recent situations where my mind reading suddenly failed me. I illustrate by telling him about my recent encounter with Officer Stanley while parking with Bella (making sure to leave out the more sensual details). However, Carlisle sees right through me; he may be the son of an Anglican Minister, but he is not so pious or naïve to actually believe we were only stargazing at Lookout Point. He responds to my story with a big laugh, chuckling at my description of Bella's response when Officer Stanley told her he wouldn't 'say anything to Charlie.' And he actually cackles when I tell him how Bella planned on Googling 'the recipe' on how to destroy a vampire. That was pretty funny!
We walk as we talk and Carlisle asks me a few questions about my mind reading lapses. I tell him everything that I have experienced thus far. I notice that we are on the same path where Bella had her encounter with Laurent. This prompts me to tell him how I actually read Bella's mind when she said her goodbye to me.
"She…she thought the words…I love you…she was saying goodbye to me in her mind, Carlisle. I heard her…"
"And did she have any possible explanation regarding this experience…did she notice anything unusual when she had this thought?" he asks.
"Yes…she said that she recalled a flash of white light and a feeling came over her. She…she said it was as if a shade snapped up within her mind. And, in addition to that, both of us felt like we were in a bubble all weekend. So much so that I never even heard any of you arrive when you came home this morning."
Carlisle's thoughts are very quiet for a long moment. He seems to be blocking them from me. Then he lifts his eyes and gives a little nod, more to himself than to me. "I think, Edward…that Bella may have a very special gift…one that makes perfect sense when I consider her personality and intense need for privacy."
"What is it?" I ask, growing excited.
"I think Bella may be a shield," he informs me importantly.
A shield? What on earth is that?
"Of course…I'm not one hundred percent certain…we would have to conduct experiments…I would need to get in touch with Eleazer. But, Edward…this is wonderful! What a gift…and it will only magnify when she is transformed."
He goes on to explain his knowledge of shields….stating that he has only met one or two in all of his existence, and then showing them to me in his mind. Apparently, a shield is very rare. Of course she is rare…anyone with eyes could see that.
"So, what you're saying is that a shield not only protects their thoughts by preventing anyone in, but some also have the ability to throw their shield over others?" Carlisle nods his head in agreement and then gives his shoulders a little shrug.
"I think it is far too soon for us to be having this conversation about Bella's gift, Edward. Your sister told me that you are planning to change her after graduation, is that correct?"
"Yes, though she surprised me by saying that she'd like to go to college with me first as a human…perhaps waiting a year or so before she transforms."
Carlisle nods his head gravely. "I think that sounds like a very mature plan, Edward. But I do want you to both keep an open mind regarding the possibility that it may need to come about sooner rather than later." I look at him puzzled.
"The Volturi, Edward," he reminds me. "We are long overdue for a visit…you know they like to keep tabs on us all. Have you spoken to Bella about them?" I tell him that I had told her about them the night of her birthday party.
"I…I told her that had she died the night James attacked her in Phoenix, I would have gone to them myself, Carlisle. I would have begged for them to kill me….I could never have lived in a world where she doesn't exist." This is the first time I have told him what my intentions had been, had I not been able to save her. The images and memories flood my mind even now, and it is all I can do to keep from running back to the house…back to my Bella. My need for her has never been more acute than it is in this very moment.
"Edward, I know you need to go back to be with Bella now. I may not be a mind reader, but my senses are keen enough to know that you are practically jumping out of your skin with the need to be with her. Am I correct?" I nod impatiently. I need her now…so badly!
"Alright," he sighs. "We've talked enough for now. But I have to say one thing before we head back to the house. The next time you feel the need to provoke the Volturi in order to end yourself…please talk to ME first. I don't think I could have ever recovered from such a loss, Edward. And it would have broken Esme's heart," he implores me.
Suddenly, I feel like a frightened and overwhelmed kid. I shake my head to myself…how could I have been so thoughtless? Of course telling Carlisle of my plans would be upsetting. I offer him my sincerest apology, and he accepts it with a hug, saying "Alright, son…just next time talk to me first…and don't tell Esme…she would be frantic if she knew about this."
I promise him there won't be a next time, and we proceed to walk back to the house.
As we walk, we go by the small caretaker's cottage that Bella and I had spent the most amorous and loving night of my existence. Though it was just a cottage that housed old furniture and relics from my past, I realize now that my feelings toward this dilapidated old building have changed. This is now the place where I asked Bella to marry me, and where I promised to change her. It too has a special place in my heart. As we pass, I mention it to Carlisle who assures me that it is mine if I wish it.
"I think Esme will absolutely adore helping you two renovate it, Edward." This idea fills me with happiness. I look the small building over with fresh eyes; this will become our little love nest.
The desire and need for Bella returns with a vengeance. Carlisle smiles and gives me a little push, telling me to "go home." He pulls out his cell and asks me if it's okay for him to call Jasper and bid him to return. I nod my head and ask him to give Jasper my best and to see if it's possible for him to join Emmett and me for a hunt in the park this evening. Carlisle readily agrees and surprises me by stating that he would enjoy going with us…a men's night out.
I hurry off down the path…I need to get Bella back in my arms…NOW!
I enter the door and note that the women, plus Emmett, are still sitting in the kitchen gossiping. The sound of their laughter is music to my ears. My chest is almost heaving with the need to physically touch her…I round the corner, entering the room quickly.
"So, do you plan on telling Charlie soon about your engagement?" Esme asks Bella.
"Umm…Edward and I haven't really discussed that part yet. I'm not sure how he's going to react…I mean…he and my mom married right out of high school and look how that turned out. I think they're both going to be very upset and possibly a little disappointed in me," she says sadly. My heart, though long dead, thuds unhappily at her words. I hate the thought that our engagement would bring her sadness. She looks up and sees me hovering by the door.
"Oh, you're back!" she sings out happily, as she rises to meet me. I open my arms and she flings herself against my chest. I grab her as tight as I dare and hold her close, kissing her hair.
"I missed you," she says into my neck.
"So much," I breathe in response to her words.
"Bella, I need to talk to you for a minute. Is it all right if I steal you away from my family for an hour?"
"Well which one is it, Edward? Do you need a minute or an hour? Esme teases. Everyone except, Rosalie, bursts into raucous laughter.
"Oh, for Christ sakes, Edward…you've had her ALL weekend! Can't you go upstairs and play with Emmett for a little while?" Rosalie says in disdain.
And here I thought Rosalie had changed…but no…she's still the biggest thorn in my side. It's comforting to know that some things never change. Alice smiles sympathetically. Her thoughts are full of understanding... and then turn disturbingly to Jasper…wearing a pair of chaps and a …thong? Oh, Christ…I need to get out of here!
"No, Rose…I CAN"T. I need to talk to Bella…privately."
"You go for it, Eddie boy!" Emmett cackles approvingly. Rose shoots him a filthy look, but he doesn't back down this time. He lets out a little growl and grabs her roughly to his side. It may be my imagination, but I swear I hear her let out a small purr. Ugh!
Esme lets out a blissful sigh. Should I be disturbed that I already know what Carlisle will be doing the second he enters the door?
Waves of lust are filling the room and clouding my vision. I push my family's thoughts out of my mind as I scoop a very bewildered, but willing, Bella up into my arms and run outside with her…she is laughing and squealing in my arms.
BPOV
Edward literally swept me off my feet, in front of his sisters, Emmett, AND Esme. Oh, my GOD…that was so HOT! And his eyes…Jesus…his eyes are black as pitch and so hooded that all I see are inky slits.
"Edward," I laugh as he stops abruptly. "What's wrong?" I grab his chin and force him to look at me. The look he gives me is so intense…it's almost feral! "You look hungry," I say. "You need to hunt."
"I know I need to hunt, Bella…but this isn't hunger I'm feeling right now. This is…NEED. I need you, Bella…Need to feel you…God, Please….I am starving for your touch."
I gasp as his words register in my brain, which sends out an all points bulletin to my girlie parts… WARNING: penile invasion likely…please stand guard.
I hear a loud bang, followed by the sound of splintering wood. I let out a little gasp as I feel the back of my legs touch what appears to be a mattress. I look up, delighted to discover we are in our little cottage. My heart quickens when I see those black, black eyes closing in on me. I smell the spicy sweetness of his breath as his mouth captures mine in a searing kiss. I sigh in sweet surrender.
Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead.
Guess the honeymoon's not over after all…
A/N: Sorry for the delay in updating, guys. Real life has been…difficult…ah…hard…Eh! It was a crap month and let's leave it at that! Seriously though, I do want to thank everyone for their reviews and PM's. The last chapter garnered more reviews than any chapter I've submitted thus far. I guess I need to cry poor mouth more often, huh? So this is me crying poor mouth: Please leave a review! I'd love to break 300 this time. Plus it's my birthday...
Ok…no more begging or whining…I promise! See you soon…just a few more chapters to go!
Jayne