I'd like to send a shout out to a couple of people who have been seriously making writing this story so much fun. Thank you to Leslie (StarttheFantasy), Ashley (edwardsouthernbella), Stephanie (luvstwilight09), Lexi (SexyLexiCullen) and Kyla (theonlykyla) for their support and pimp-age of the story. I love you, ladies! MUAH! Also, thank you to the ladies of The Lemonade Stand for their mention on their blog! Thank you to Wendy from TwilightFicZone for the wonderful review on her blog! I'm truly humbled at the response to this story. I mean, wow!
Also, I don't own any of this. I make no money for writing these stories. Though I would like to. I just need to get an original thought or characters. Or something...
Chapter Twenty-One: Home Field Advantage
EPOV
"Older?" Alice chirped.
"Yes, Alice?" I replied.
"Why are Bella's panties in the living room?" Alice asked, fluttering her eyelashes. On her finger were Bella's teal blue panties that she was wearing last night. Last night with all of the amazing fucking sex. More. I need more.
"Um…"
"Do I need to remind you about no sex in the common areas?" Alice snickered.
"Oh, please. It's not like I caught you guys doing the nasty on the couch," I said, arching a brow. "And the table. And the kitchen counter. So pot meet kettle."
"I'm just teasing, Older," Alice giggled. "Where is Bella this morning?"
"Sleeping. We wore each other out," I blushed.
"Ooooh, my twin brother finally sexed someone to sleep," Alice snorted. "How many times?"
"I'm so not telling you," I said as I ruffled her hair.
"I can surmise that you did it at least once," Alice said as she flung Bella's panties at my face. I caught them and surreptitiously sniffed them. God, she smells so good. "Did you just smell her underwear?"
"No."
"Liar…"
"I'm going to work, Mary Alice," I said.
"We're going out to lunch. Going find your girlfriend an engagement ring," Alice called out. I stopped dead in my tracks and went back into the kitchen. Alice was sitting calmly at the breakfast bar. "You know you want to."
"I do, but isn't it too soon?"
"No. Not at all," Alice smiled. "Well, if you don't want to get her an engagement ring, I saw this absolutely gorgeous canary diamond set for Emmett's party. We can go get that after you take me out to lunch. Okay?
"What does this canary set look like?"
"A long necklace, ring and earrings. It's absolutely gorgeous, Edward. Bella will LOVE it," Alice gushed. "I had it special ordered when you told me that you were bringing a date to Emmett's birthday. Now, knowing Bella she will absolutely DIE when she sees this. I also created the most perfect dress for her."
"Wow, Alice. You are really gung-ho on this," I chuckled.
"We're going to fuck up our brother's life. I want all of the players to look fantastic. I have something for you, too, Older," Alice smirked. "You'll look absolutely fabulous. Now, I'll meet you at the office by twelve. Love you!" Alice hopped off the stool and went to her bedroom. I watched her skip out of the kitchen, flummoxed at her words. I adjusted my collar and grabbed my messenger bag. I left the condo and drove to work.
At the office, I flew through my morning. I managed to finally make the appropriate changes to the processor for the tablet. I was now working on the operating system. A good combination of Apple and PC, but something all my own. I was working on the code when Alice breezed in. She told me that we couldn't do lunch, but she just wanted my credit card so she could purchase the jewelry for Bella. I arched a brow and asked if there were pictures of this jewelry. I'd like to know what I'm getting my girlfriend. Alice pushed me out of my chair and ran her fingers over the computer keyboard. Within a few keystrokes, the most beautiful jewelry came on the screen. My open jaw indicated that my sister did well. Alice reached into my back pocket and took out my black AMEX card. She kissed my cheek and left my office. How much is ALL of that? I scrolled down and saw the price. My eyes nearly bugged out of my head. Thank goodness for no limit credit cards.
xx ANSOL xx
The rest of the week went by quickly. Bella's ankle was getting stronger every day. She didn't need to wear the boot. She did wear an ankle brace if she was walking a good distance. She was wearing it on Saturday. It was spent looking at houses in the Gold Coast neighborhood and in Wicker Park. Bella was shocked at the houses we looked at. Mainly because of the cost.
"Edward, these homes are huge. And so expensive," Bella complained.
"Mrs. Cullen," my real estate agent, Gianna, said, "these are the homes in your price range. If you want something smaller…"
"No, Gianna. We're fine. Let's go to the next one, please," I smiled. "Ready, Mrs. Cullen?"
"You are in so much trouble, Mr. Cullen," Bella said, giving me a sidelong glance. I wrapped my arm around her waist and kissed her temple. She pinched my side and we got into my Volvo, following Gianna. I had a feeling that Bella would like the next house. It was a bit smaller than the rest, but still quite large. It was also in Glenview, which was just outside the city. That made it a little less expensive. Bella was quiet as drove through the city to the next house. She had a bit of a scowl on her face. I reached across the console and laced my fingers with hers. "You are still in trouble."
"Bella, I'm sorry that I make millions of dollars and want to spoil my wife," I snickered.
"Yeah, why didn't you correct her?" Bella said, arching a brow.
"Admit it, you liked hearing it," I challenged. Bella furrowed her brow and growled lightly. "Not very convincing, love. You liked it. A lot."
"Okay, I did. I guess, in my mind, I'm already Mrs. Cullen," she sighed. "Shit, I don't want to presume…"
"Bella, I've told you on numerous occasions, that I see you as my wife. So, relax," I chuckled. We pulled up to a large home and followed Gianna in her Lexus. Bella gulped and squeezed my hand. We parked and got out. Gianna was very excited. She prattled on about the acreage of the land and privacy the house boasted.
"Are you ready to see inside?"
"Yes," Bella said excitedly.
I smirked and twined my fingers with Bella's. "I think my wife likes the house," I muttered in her ear. Bella blushed and smacked me with her free hand. I sniggered lightly and followed Gianna as she opened the house up. The foyer was small, but had vaulted ceilings. To the right was a large living room with warm beige walls and white trim. To left was deep, blood red dining room. The floors were a warm cherry wood. Gianna told us the measurements of the living room and dining room as she slowly walked through the spaces. We followed her through a small butler's pantry, still in the red color, to the kitchen. The kitchen was very large and spacious. It had top of the line appliances and black and brown granite counter tops. The walls were painted a neutral mustard yellow. It contrasted with the black of the wood of the cabinets. The family room was adjacent from the eat-in kitchen area and was painted the same color as the kitchen.
Bella poked and prodded in the kitchen. She looked like she fit in this kitchen. Like she fit in this house. She opened the pantry and gasped quietly. I heard her mumble about how it was bigger than her damn apartment. It was, really. I love my girl, but my closet was bigger than her apartment.
After wandering through the main floor, Gianna led us upstairs. There were four bedrooms on the second floor with one on the main level off of the family room. The previous family used it as a den/office. It was painted a deep forest green with dark wooden built in shelves. The bedrooms were nice sized. Two of them appeared to be children's rooms. One was a fireman theme with red walls and the other was some girly theme with soft lilac walls. Yeah, my heart jumped in these two rooms. I want kids.
You're not a virgin anymore. Kids are a possibility.
Yes. Yes they are…when can Bella get off her shot?
Marry her first, moron.
The third bedroom was neutral, painted the same color as the hallway with a darker accent wall. The master bedroom was obviously the largest and was a soft wine color. The bathroom adjoining it was very open and neutral. It had a large Jacuzzi tub and elegant waterfall shower. The granite countertop was dark with speckles of brown and cream. I personally loved the house. It was elegant and understated. Bella was biting her lip as we moved through the upstairs. Her wheels were turning, but I couldn't put a finger if she liked it or not.
Gianna led us back downstairs to the finished basement. It housed a full bar and media room. It also opened up to the in ground pool and hot tub. Gianna looked at us expectantly. "So?"
"Can you give us a few moments?" I asked.
"I'll be upstairs in the kitchen. Take all the time you need," Gianna said as she left us in the media room, with built in chairs.
I sat down and pulled Bella into my lap. She had been limping during this walk through. "Well?"
"It's nice," Bella said as she looked around the basement. "Big."
"Sweetie, they're all big," I said, arching a brow. "What do you think? Can you see yourself living here? With me?" Each time I said that, my heart stammered. I was still in shock that she would want to live with me. Be with me. Love me. Marry me…
Engagement rings…that'll be my next big purchase after the house.
Focus, Cullen. Your girl is talking.
"Edward? Did you hear what I said?" Bella laughed.
"What?"
"Guess not. Where were you?"
"Daydreaming about the house. About us. About our future," I smiled wistfully. "How badly I want it with you."
"Well, goofus, I was talking about our future. In this house," Bella said as she kissed my lips sweetly.
"Goofus?"
"Shut it. Do you want to hear what I said since you were in La La Land, also known as your brain?"
"Yes, I'd love to hear your take on our future. Let me guess, we have twenty kids and two dogs," I teased.
"If you think that I'm popping out twenty children, you have ANOTHER thing coming, Cullen. Christ," Bella said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
"Nineteen?"
"How about two? Three tops?" Bella said as she lay her head on my shoulder. "But, let's get married and moved in before we start talking children. We've been together for two months, barely…"
"I know. I'm just excited," I said as I squeezed her hip. "So, future?"
"I love this house. I love you. But can we afford it?" Bella asked. She handed me the listing information that Gianna gave Bella when we came in. I looked at the price. It was on the higher side that I wanted to spend, but we could afford it.
"Bella, we could definitely afford this place," I said. "Do you want it?"
"I'm afraid to say yes because then you'll snap your fingers and POOF, the house is ours," Bella said ruefully.
"When you have the amount of money that I do in the bank, that's how it works, love," I said with a lopsided grin. "Shall I tell Gianna that we want to 'poof?'?"
"Poof!" Bella smiled as she kissed my cheek.
"Oh no, we're buying house. I'm not just getting a kiss on the damn cheek, Isabella," I said, arching a brow over my glasses. Bella growled and grabbed my face. The next thing I knew, I was shoved against the chair and Bella's tongue was down my throat. Bella's tiny fingers were twisted in my hair and were pulling on it. Painfully. Holy shit, dominating Bella is making my jeans tight. Must…have…her!
"Excuse me, Mr. Cullen?" Gianna called down to the basement. Thank goodness, she didn't come down. I was five seconds away from pulling out my schlong…
"Yes?"I squeaked as Bella nibbled on my ear. Her moans were driving me crazy and her hands moved from my hair to the waistband of my ever-tightening jeans.
"Have you made a decision?"
"I think we have. We'll be up in a few minutes, Gianna," I said in the most even voice I can muster.
"Only a few minutes? Do you think I can get you off in a few minutes, Edward?" Bella asked as she slid to the floor. With her fingers she popped my buttons on my button fly jeans. I've learned since the last commando debacle. And yes, I'm sans underwear today. Planning ahead, you know. Bella's chocolate orbs darkened when she realized that I was without boxers. She pulled my arousal out of my jeans and immediately plunged her mouth on my throbbing cock. "Fuck!" I hissed.
Bella's throaty chuckled filled the room and she began bobbing her head along my hardened length. This is wrong. Bella is giving me head with my realtor upstairs. Oh, just a little faster, baby…I slumped in the chair and watched as Bella's pink lips moved up and down my cock. I can actually see it. Wearing glasses. Must wear some form of eyewear whenever Bella does this.
Her fingers deftly moved my balls from my jeans and she massaged them gently. My hips were moving of their own volition. Bella's other' hand was twisting the base of my cock. Her eyes were feral and they never left my gaze. My lips parted and my breathing became erratic and labored. I was so close. My dick was twitching, my balls were tightening and Bella ran her teeth along the underside of my shaft. There we go. That did it. "Bella…I'm…" She smirked and kept her lips wrapped around my cock as I came. Hot streams pulsed out of my body and down her throat. Once I calmed down, Bella removed her mouth from my body, putting her chin on my thigh. I ran my fingers down her pink cheek, smiling crookedly.
"You like?"
"Oh yeah," I smirked. Bella gave my cock a chaste kiss and stood up. I groaned and put myself back into my jeans and stood up on wobbly legs. I did a quick inspection before I grabbed Bella. I dipped her in a passionate kiss. I could taste my release on her tongue and I growled. Bella giggled and smacked my shoulder. "Let's put an offer on the house."
"Poof!"
xx ANSOL xx
The offer on the house that we gave was accepted immediately. Within three days of our offer, Gianna called us with the good news. The owners had to move due to a transfer and had the hardest time selling the house. The market was not ideal. They just wanted to make sure that they got the asking price. I gave them the asking price. They also said that they would want to rush the closing. Suffice it to say, the day before Bella leaves with Rosalie for Detroit, we'll be owners of the house in Glenview. Bella and I celebrated with a romantic dinner out. I then surprised her with tickets to go see Beauty and the Beast.
On Wednesday, Bella needed to pick Rose up from the airport. I lent her my Volvo and ended up taking the Vanquish to the office. I parked in my regular spot and said a silent prayer that my baby would not get injured while in the parking garage. I got into the elevator when I heard my name. "Hold the elevator! Edward!" I pressed the button and waited for the voice to come into the elevator. A frazzled Tia Cairo came in, breathing heavily. "Thanks, Cullen."
"No problem," I smiled. "Everything okay?" I pressed the buttons to our respective floors.
"I got a frantic phone call from Jane this morning. One of her authors is throwing a shit fit because Twilight won't publish his latest book. Some dude who used an experience from his childhood as the inspiration for his book. He didn't take into account the person who he was implicating. He's threatening to sue."
"Is the author James Hunter?" I asked.
"How did you know?"
"Yeah, I'm the other person," I blushed. "And no, I'm not gay. That's all his sick twisted mind."
"Shit," Tia murmured. "Well, in addition to threatening to sue, he's talking about going to another publishing company. Jane has made some phone calls warning the companies and James found out. He's so pissed, wanting to sue for slander and loss of wages. It's a mess."
"I'm sorry, Tia."
"Thanks, Edward. I didn't mean to vent, but I appreciate your being a sounding board," Tia said warmly. "How's Bella?"
"She's good. We actually just bought a house in Glenview. Things are starting to come into place and I couldn't be happier," I smiled. "She's off the crutches and is currently picking up Rosalie Hale from the airport."
"Where's Rosalie staying?"
"W Hotel on Lakeshore Drive," I answered. "I offered for her to stay at the condo in the guest bedroom, but the room was already booked and paid for by Twilight Publishing."
"She may as well use it. I do have a question for you. Since you just bought a house, what are you going to do with the condo?" Tia asked as she stood in the open elevator doors.
"Put it on the market. It's paid off. I'd only need to pay the assessments and utilities until it's sold. The condos in my building go pretty quickly."
"Where at?"
"Trump Tower," I answered. "You looking?"
"Actually I am. My boyfriend Ben and I are wanting to get out of rentals. We both make good money. How much are you going to put on the market for?" Tia asked.
"I bought it at $400,000. I'll probably put on the market for $500,000," I shrugged.
"Hmmmm, tempting. I'll call you," Tia said as she left the elevator. I waved and continued my ride up to my floor. I went to my office and checked my voicemail. I had a few messages. One was from Eric. He was sick and couldn't make it to work. I sent him a text telling him to feel better. I spent most of the morning working on the design and construction of the tablet. My table in my office was covered with tons of small computer components as I worked on perfecting the design. My phone chirped from my pocket.
Rose is here! Yay! She wants to come to your office to say hi. Is that cool? – Bella
Awesome! Park in the garage, third level. Use #304. That's Eric's assigned spot and he's not here today. I miss you and love you, gorgeous – Edward
Love you more, angel. See you in a few! – Bella
As I put my phone back into my pocket, Jasper swaggered into my office and plopped down on the couch next to me. "Have I told you that I love your sister?"
"Numerous times, Jasmine," I said as I put in a computer chip into the tablet. "What did she do now?"
"She got you, me, Bella, Rosalie, Demetri, Alex, Esme and Marcus tickets to the Cub's game for Friday. Rooftop!" Jasper breathed. "It's going to be wicked fun."
"Are you from Boston now?" I asked, arching a brow.
"We did go to school in Massachusetts, Edwina," Jasper said as he slugged my shoulder.
"I know this. They don't call it Massachusetts Institute of Technology and it's in New Hampshire," I said dryly. "That would be dumb."
"So, I hear you're a home owner," Jasper said. "You go from single and virgin to domesticated in a heartbeat."
"I love her, Jasmine. I'd do anything for her," I said.
"Like she did to you," Jasper snickered. "You aren't very quiet Edwina. Gianna heard Bella's little, um, action in the basement of your new home. I never would have taken you to be a screamer."
"How? Why are you talking to Gianna?" I asked. Jasper grinned evilly. I narrowed my eyes, "I did not scream, moron. I hissed."
"What, are you a snake?" Jasper snorted. "No! Bella had your snake in her mouth! Your trouser snake!"
"I swear you were dropped on your head as a child," I said, my voice dripping with sarcasm. I smacked him upside the head and turned back to the tablet. "Was there anything else you wanted, Jasmine?"
"Nope. I just love watching you squirm," Jasper said as he grinned at me.
"Do you see me squirming? Nope. No squirmage," I retorted. I didn't even blush. God, I am a sexual deviant. Good bye prudish Edward and hello pervy Edward.
"But you did not deny getting a blow job while your realtor was upstairs. Damn, I have taught you well, young padawan," Jasper said reverently. "You will be a Jedi Master soon. Did she swallow?"
"Jasper!"
"What?! It's a legit question," Jasper guffawed. SMACK! "God damn, Edward. Stop smacking me."
"Stop being such a tool," I spat. "There's a reason why I don't tell you about what Bella and I do. It's because it's intimate. And new. It doesn't seem right for me to share such details about my girlfriend's body and our experiences. It's between me and her. I don't ask about you and Alice."
"That's because Alice is your sister and that would be fucked up," Jasper shuddered.
"I never asked about the shit you and Maria did," I said pointedly. Jasper opened his mouth to offer an argument, but closed it quickly. He shrugged and sat back on the couch.
"So, she's moving in. You bought a house. When are you proposing?" Jasper asked with a sly grin.
"As soon as humanly possible," I mumbled. "When are you proposing to my sister?"
"Um…I have a meeting. Talk to you later, Edwina," Jasper said quickly as he jumped off my couch like it was on fire. Talk to Jasper about marriage and he'll run out of here like a bat out of hell…I heard some scuffling outside my office. The door pushed open and in walked my love and Rosalie.
"Hey, angel," Bella said as she walked into my office. I got up and gave her a hug. I kissed her sweet mouth, nipping on her bottom lip. "That was some welcome."
"I missed you, gorgeous."
"What about me, sexy geek boy? Did you miss me?" Rose said as she put her hands on her hips.
"Of course, Rosalie," I smiled.
"Come here and give me some geeky loving," Rose grinned. I released Bella and gave Rose a warm hug. Her hands grabbed my ass. I jumped and danced out of her hands. "Still nice and firm."
"Thanks, Rose," I said dryly. Rose patted her cheek. I leaned into kiss her cheek. At the last moment, she turned her head and kissed my lips. Bella growled and smacked Rose's arm. She just laughed. "You are so sneaky, Rosalie."
"Now I can see why you are all about his lips, Isabella. Nice and soft. With the right amount of firmness. Are you sure I can't shove my tongue down his throat?"
"No!" Bella and I answered. I moved behind Bella, putting my arms around her waist, nuzzling her soft hair. Rose laughed and walked around my office, looking at my accolades.
"MIT and Northwestern? You really are brilliant!"
"I've been asked to teach at Northwestern in their Computer Science department on a part-time basis. I've done one class and I liked it. After I got over the stage fright," I sighed. "Speaking publicly is not my strong suit."
"Are you doing it again?" Bella asked.
"I have an intro to HTML coding class in the fall. It meets on Wednesday evenings," I said as I caressed her cheek.
"Professor Cullen," Rose cooed. "I love it."
"Or how about Dr. Cullen?" Bella smiled. "You could get your doctorate!"
"I've started a program," I shrugged. "But I wasn't motivated. Maybe later. I'll stick with 'Professor' for now."
"Okay, sexy geek boy. Let's get some grub. Bella told me about this mini microphone you want me to wear and I need details about your asshole brother so I can royally fuck him over," Rose said as she laced her fingers with mine. "It's now or never. The rest of the week is jam packed with signings, pictures and interviews."
"Oh, speaking of which, Alice got us all tickets to the Cubs game on Friday afternoon. Will that interfere with anything you have planned?"
Rose looked at Bella who checked her Blackberry. "You have a signing in the morning, but we're free in the afternoon."
"Sweet."
xx ANSOL xx
While Rose was in town, I gave Bella the keys to my Volvo. She used it to chauffeur Rose around to her signings. Rose wanted the keys to the Aston but Bella paled and said she wouldn't drive my Aston without me in the car. Rose pouted and said that she could stuff me in the trunk. I spit out my water when she said that and gave her a pointed look.
On Friday, Bella woke up early and dressed in cute dress. She had what she wanted to wear to the Cubs game in a bag from Alice. I watched her as she got dressed, amazed at her grace and beauty. "You're drooling again, Edward," Bella snickered as she pulled her hair into a low ponytail.
"You're gorgeous," I said as I rolled onto my belly. "I do not care that I was drooling looking at the future Mrs. Cullen."
"You are such a sap," Bella laughed as she sat down next to me, rubbing her fingers through my hair. "What time should we pick you up from the Hancock?"
"Game starts at 2:05," I said. "Just get there when you can."
"You better wear your jersey I bought you," Bella said.
"I'll be wearing it with pride. And don't hate me. I'm wearing a hat," I said with a smirk.
"No! Don't cover up the sex hair," Bella moaned. Her fingers tangled in my hair and she whimpered.
"Sorry, gorgeous. The hair is going to be covered by a blue Cubs hat," I said with a wry grin. Bella pouted and crossed her arms over her chest. "Don't pout, love. It's for four hours. I'll take it off and have major hat hair if it'll make you happy."
"No. It's okay. I guess I'm spoiled. I have a gorgeous boyfriend with luscious locks," Bella snickered. "We'll try to get there by 1:30. Will that be enough time?"
"Yep. We're going to be on a rooftop and it has its own parking," I said. "Have fun today. Love you."
"Love you more, angel."
Bella grabbed her bag and messenger bag, kissing my forehead as she left. I snuggled back into the bed and dozed for a little bit before my alarm went off. I rolled out of bed once it did and showered quickly. I dressed in a pair of dark wash jeans, sneakers, a wife beater and my 'Cullen' jersey. I put my phone and wallet into my pocket and grabbed my hat. I didn't put it on because I was still going into the office for a half day. That would not be appropriate. I felt like a total slacker going to work in jeans.
I took a cab to work today, not wanting to leave my Aston at the Hancock for the weekend. I'd rather fork out my eyeball. I went into the office only to be told that Jasper needed to speak with me. Once I got in there, I was serenaded by a horribly off-key rendition of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame."
"Jasmine, just stop. My ears are bleeding. And why in the hell are you wearing a Cardinal's Jersey? Do you want me to kick your ass?" I asked.
"Your precious Cubbies are playing my St. Louis Cardinals. You're going down, Cullen," Jasper snickered as he put on his Cardinal's hat backwards.
"You're a moron. You are so going to get killed in Wrigleyville," I cackled. "And I'll just laugh and point. You're on your own, Whitlock."
"Fuck you, Edwina," Jasper said. "Anyhow, there is a reason why I needed to talk to you. Our investors what to meet with us next week. The brothers Volturi."
"When?"
"Thursday. At two in the afternoon," Jasper said. "How's the prototype?"
"Constructed. Not functioning yet. I have some basic apps on there but not much else."
"If I help you, can you get it close to running?"
"If you don't help me, I can," I said with a crooked smile. "Relax, Jas."
"Okay. This is just huge. I mean, massive. I mean, huge…large…bulbous… HUGE!" Jasper said as he clutched my jersey. "I'm going to have an aneurysm because it's so fucking big."
"You're definitely having something. You need to breathe, Jas. You're freaking me out," I said nervously. Jasper hopped up and his 180 pounds crashed me to the ground.
"Hold me, Edward," he fake sobbed. He put his head on my chest and sucked his thumb.
"Get off me, fucktard," I said I rolled him off my body. I quickly hopped up and glared at my best friend. "You need to drink heavily today. Do you trust me?"
"No…"
"Jasmine!"
"Yes, I do. Edwina, I trust you with my life. You're my brother from another mother," Jasper said as he straightened my jersey. He took his thumb, stuck in his mouth and rubbed out something on my cheek. I smacked his hands away. "I do trust you."
"Then trust me to have the prototype done," I said as I punched his shoulder. "I'll go work on it now, Jasmine." I turned to leave the office.
"Edwina?"
"Yes, Jasmine?" I asked as I turned around. Again, Jasper hopped up and wrapped his legs around my waist, pressing his lips to mine. "Gah! Get off, douche!"
"I love you, man."
"I need to go back home to scour my mouth," I said, arching my brow. "Go do your work and run the damn company, asshat. And never kiss me again or I will show Alice your gay porn stash." Jasper flipped me off and I laughed heartily as I walked to my office. I went to my 'table of the tablet' and began working on the prototype. I hooked it up to my laptop and began typing furiously. The morning went by quickly. Before I knew it, Eric was buzzing my office saying that Ms. Dwyer was here. I saved my work and put the prototype away. I walked to the door and opened it up. On the other side was a very scantily clad Rosalie. "Hi Rose."
"You like my outfit? Your sister got it for me," Rose said as she pushed up her boobs. She was in a pink Cubs jersey, tied below her breasts and a pair of jean shorts. On her head was a pink Cubs hat with her blond hair pulled through it.
"You look great. Though it's Cubbie blue not Cubbie pink," I teased. "Where's my better half?"
"Changing in the bathroom. She has her own Cub's outfit to wear," Rose said as she breezed into my office. "So, have you and Bella christened the desk?"
"Fuck, Rose!" I said. "Must you be so vulgar?"
"Yes. Yes, I can. Answer the question, Cullen," Rose snickered. I blushed and grabbed my hat, slamming it on my head. "You did."
"Not the desk, Rose," I mumbled. I shot a furtive glance to the couch and blushed a deeper crimson.
"Good job, sexy geek boy," Rose said. "Sex or otherwise?"
"Otherwise," I smiled deviously. "God! I won't tell Jasper this shit and I'm spilling it to you. What the hell?"
"Rose has her ways," Bella said from the doorway. Holy crap. Bella is sex personified in a Cubs jersey. We are so going at it like bunnies in nothing but our jerseys. Like NOW! Bella was wearing a pair of short jean shorts, white tank top, a red and blue Cubs jersey and a hat on her head. Her long brown hair flowing over her shoulders. "Are you behaving Rosalie?"
"I did not cop a feel on sexy geek boy. Though the jeans make your ass look great, Edward," Rose said as she grabbed my hips turning me around and staring at my butt.
"Do not bite my ass cheek, Rosalie," I said as I danced away from her roaming fingers. Rose pulled away and gave me a look of complete innocence. "I see you, woman. Only fingers, teeth, tongue or anything that touches my ass is Bella. Got it?"
"Yep. Let's go bitches! I want to find me some hot baseball players. I hear Geovany Soto is hot," Rose said as she grabbed my hand. Bella rolled her eyes and handed me the keys to the Volvo. We rode down the elevator and piled into the Volvo. Jasper was already gone. He had to pick up Alice with the tickets. Bella sent a text to Demetri and told him that we were on the way. Rose was sitting in the back seat, twirling her blonde hair with her fingers. "So, this party tomorrow…"
"Are you having second thoughts?" I asked.
"Nope. I can't wait to give Emmett a taste of his own medicine. You have a picture right?"
"On my phone," I said. Bella picked up my iPhone and scrolled the albums until she found a picture of my asshat brother.
"He's attractive. In a football sort of way. I like your looks better, Edward. More refined, chiseled. You are one lucky bitch, Bellini," Rose snickered.
"I know. I am."
"I'm the lucky one. I never thought I could find perfection," I smiled as I caressed Bella's cheek.
"Oh GAG me! You two are really obnoxiously nauseating," Rose said as she fell over in the back seat. "I want that. Not my moronic husband. Not my boy toys. I want obnoxiously nauseating. Can't I clone you, sexy geek boy?"
"No, Rosalie," I laughed. "I'm unique and one of a kind. No cloning."
"Damn it. Okay, my goal is to find an obnoxiously nauseating man who dotes on me. Once I do, fuck off Royce!"
"Good luck finding it at the Cubs game. Usually it's a bunch of drunken idiots," I snickered. I pulled into the parking lot and paid the attendant. Jasper and Alice were sitting on Jasper's Mercedes talking to Demetri and Alex. Esme and Marcus were standing next to them with huge grins on their faces. I noticed that Esme was holding Marcus' hand. I smiled at her happiness. She deserved it.
"Edward!" Alex squealed as he skipped over to me. "I missed you my straight boyfriend!"
"Hello, Alex," I said. Alex threw his arms around my neck and kissed my cheek. "How are you doing?"
"I'm good. I've missed you," Alex said with a pathetic puppy dog pout. He then turned to Bella. "Hey BB. You look so adorable. We match!"
"Yes, we do," Bella smiled as she hugged Alex. "I'd like to introduce my best friend, Rosalie Hale. Rose, this is Alex Horne. He's Demetri's boyfriend."
"Nice to meet you Alex," Rose said as she shook his hand. "I see you have the same affection for Edward that I do."
"How could you not? He's gorgeous!"
"Hello! Standing right here," I snorted.
"Edward, you are very handsome," Esme said. "Take after my side of the family."
"Hi, Mom," I said as I kissed her cheek. "Hello, Marcus. I hear you're coming to Whitlock on Thursday."
"Yes. Seeing how the prototype is coming," Marcus said with a smile. "With what your mother says, we should not be worried. You are extremely talented Edward. I'm proud of the work you've done so far." He put his hand on my shoulder and gave me a warm grin.
I started shaking and returned his smile. "Thank you, Marcus," I said with a strained voice. I tried to keep the tears from falling over my cheeks. "Your words mean a lot to me. Excuse me." I laced my fingers with Bella's and dragged her out of the parking lot and around the corner.
"Edward? Angel? Are you okay?" Bella asked as she removed my sunglasses and hat from my head. The tears that I kept from falling, spilled over. I wrapped my arms around Bella's waist and sobbed. She held me, rubbing soothing circles on my back. "Shhh, angel. It's okay. I love you."
"I love you, too," I sniffled as I wiped my tears away. "You probably think I'm crazy…"
"No. I don't. Marcus told you that he was proud of you and that was more than your father ever did. I get it," Bella whispered as she ran her thumbs across my cheeks. "I'm just as proud of you. So proud of you. So proud that you're mine and all of your accomplishments. You are brilliant. You are generous. You are handsome. You are loving. You are compassionate. You are everything to me. I love you so much. I'm sorry that you never felt your father's love. I wish I could make that pain go away, angel. But I can't. I'll support you in everything that you do because I love you and because I'm proud of you."
New tears fell down my cheeks and I pulled Bella into an embrace. My lips crashed against hers. My tongue pushed through her soft mouth and massaged her own tongue. "I love you, so much, Isabella. You have no idea what your words mean to me. You heal my heart. It beats for you," I whispered. I grabbed her hand put it over my stammering heart. "Only for you. This is yours."
"I know, angel." Bella took my hand and put it over her left breast. "My heart beats only for you, too. Now, let's go watch the Cubbies. No more tears or drama!"
"Got it, love. Sorry about turning into Emoward," I said. I put my hat and sunglasses back on. I kissed Bella's lips chastely and led us back to the parking lot. Alice gave me a look. I shook my head and she handed us our tickets. We went up to the rooftop and settled in our seats. Rose, Demetri and Alex were chattering behind us. Jasper and Alice were sitting next to Bella and me. Marcus and Esme were behind Demetri and Alex. They didn't pay much attention to the game. Honestly, neither did I. I was still in Emowardland. It's like Disneyland, but no fun rides. Just angst and drama. And churros.
Scary food. I'm just saying…
I couldn't honestly tell you who won the baseball game. It was probably not the Cubs. I love my team, but man they SUCK! Esme came up to me as we were walking to the car. She put her arm through mine. "Talk to me, my sweet boy."
"Why is it that a complete stranger can be proud of me and my own fucking father can't?" I whispered.
"Because your father is fucking moron," Esme answered. "I know you want his acceptance. But you will probably have to deal with the fact that you might not get it."
"I know. It just hurts," I said as I looked at my mom.
"Edward, you are the most amazing man I've ever known. You make your brother and your father look like fools. You have a wonderful partner in Bella and I know you love her. Very much. Just promise me that you won't run off to Vegas to get married. I'd like to plan one of my children's weddings. Heavens knows that Emmett will never get married and Jasper is taking his sweet time in proposing to Alice."
"Yeah, good luck with that one. You mention marriage to Jasper and he runs away like a bat out of hell," I snickered.
"Before Emmett's party tomorrow, I want you to swing by the house. I have something to give you."
"What?"
"The engagement ring that Grandfather Masen gave Nana Elizabeth," Esme whispered. "I have a feeling you're going to need it sooner rather than later."
"Thanks, Mom," I said as I kissed her cheek. "How are things going with Marcus?"
"Good. He's a complete gentleman," Esme said. "We're taking things very slowly. I'm still 'mourning' my marriage and he's still mourning his wife. Right now, we're friends. But I can see that friendship change into something different. Definitely."
"As long as you're happy, Mom," I said.
"I am. Are you?"
"When not obsessing over my 'daddy' issues, I am," I said.
"Therapy. It works wonders, my sweet boy," Esme sighed as she patted my cheek.
"I'll consider it."
We all headed into our cars. Rose was flirting with one of the guys in the parking lot. Bella dragged her back to the Volvo and reminded her about her date tomorrow and about the rash that wouldn't clear up. Rose shot daggers at Bella. I just laughed hysterically. Once Rose got close enough to me, she smacked me across my chest. And she hit me hard. My chuckles quickly stopped. I gave her the eyebrow and got in the car silently. Bella snickered and said that Rose was in trouble. Rose was surprisingly sedate as I drove her back to her hotel.
After dropping Rose off, Bella and I went back to the condo. I was still in Emowardland, but on my way out. My hand was stamped for reentry, but I was done for the day. We rode up the elevator and went into my bedroom. I smirked and pushed Bella against the door. "Now, gorgeous. We have a date with my bed. You. Me. Two Cubs jerseys and us making love. You game?" Her responding kiss told me what I already knew. I love having home field advantage…
A/N: A bit of angst, not a lot. A mini-citrus (I don't want them to be the driving force of this story. It is a story about love. Not sex and smut. Though that's fun.) Anyhow, they found a house. They went to the Cubs game. Edward took a trip to Emowardland. Not a fun place. But the trip was short lived. Up next, Emmett's party and subsequent fallout. That bitch is going DOWN! Leave me love MUAH!