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 to all of my frequent reviewers…you know who you are! Your reviews and words of encouragement make me so happy. And they make me write faster!
Thanks to Kiki The Dreamer for her assistance with the steamy portion of this chapter! You rock, girl!
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-Five: Separation Anxiety
EPOV
I watched as Bella and Rose drove away from our new home. As soon as the car turned out of the driveway, I slid onto the ground, sobbing like a baby. I don't know how long I stayed on the ground before my cell phone started ringing in my pocket. I wiped my cheeks and stood up, sitting on the bottom stair of my home. Shit, I'm a home owner. I picked it up without looking at the caller ID. "Hello?"
"Are you planning on coming into work at some point, Edwina?" Jasper asked dryly.
"Fuck you, Jasmine. Bella just left and I'm a bit bereft," I snapped. "I'll be there in an hour."
"Sorry, Edward. I didn't realize that she left immediately after your closing," Jasper said quietly. "Take your time, man."
"Thanks," I muttered. "I will be there in an hour. If I stay here, I'll just perseverate over the fact that she's gone. I can't do that. Life doesn't stop because the love my existence needs to do her job."
"No, it doesn't. But you'll get through this. I'll see you in a little bit, Edward. And we're going out for drinks after work. You'll need it. Okay?" Jasper said.
"Yeah, sure." I hung up the phone and scrambled off the steps. I grabbed my bag and keys. I locked up the house, taking a furtive look at my home. It felt so empty without Bella here. I sighed and I went out into my Volvo. I drove to the office. I rode up the elevator in a daze and walked to my office. Eric gave me my messages. I took them woodenly and locked myself in my office. I worked tirelessly until Jasper came to get me. I followed him to a bar and had a few beers. I don't remember much of the evening. After the drinks I had with Jasper, I drove home and crawled into bed. Bella wasn't going to call tonight because she had the reception for Rose at the hotel.
The first week after Bella left, I went through the motions. The only good part of my day was when Bella called. Our phone calls did not last nearly long enough but it gave me my Bella fix. Alice was ready to kick my ass. I was a sullen and cranky. I flew off the handle. I was total douche.
On Thursday of that first week, though, I flew out to visit Renee. She was exactly like I pictured; an older version of Bella. I went out to dinner with Renee and Phil to discuss my intentions for our relationship with Bella. She squealed when I asked for Bella's hand. Phil tried to calm her down. He was unsuccessful. However, they did give me their permission to propose to Bella. I spent the night at their home and left early the next morning.
Toward the end of the second week, I made a trip out to our manufacturer to check on the mini-microphones. They had half of them completed and I had dropped off an order for some local suburbs and for Milwaukee police department as well. I also was in contact with several other police departments. The mini-microphone was rising up in the world. I was pleased.
That weekend I went out to the house to take some measurements for some furniture and for my new tech man cave. After I was done, I drove home. I logged into my email and checked for anything new. I got an instant message. It was Bella.
ARomanticatHeart86: Hey Angel! How are you doing?
PianoCompGeek81: Miserable, love. I miss you. Are you near your phone?
ARomanticatHeart86: No. Well, I am, but I can't talk. I can surreptitiously text/IM you. Rose is speaking to some writer wannabes.
PianoCompGeek81: Sounds like a lot of fun.
ARomanticatHeart86: Yeah, not so much. I miss you, too, Edward. I can't wait until I'm in your arms. Permanently.
PianoCompGeek81: Only a few short weeks. Speaking of which, Mom and Alice have come up with some ideas for the dining room and living room. I sent you an email with the pictures.
ARomanticatHeart86: Sounds good. I'll look at it when I get back to the hotel. Which should be in an hour or so. Won't be soon enough. If I hear another woman ask about how Rose writes her smut, I will seriously kill myself.
PianoCompGeek81: I'd rather live the smut
ARomanticatHeart86: EDWARD ANTHONY MASEN CULLEN! I'm just as horny as you. You can't say shit like that.
PianoCompGeek81: Sorry, Bella. My hand is getting too much of a workout.
ARomanticatHeart86: Really? Edward? I'm going to kick your ass.
PianoCompGeek81: I'm really am sorry. My brain to finger filter is nonexistent. I'd rather be using my fingers in other ways.
ARomanticatHeart86: Um, Edward. You are really horny. You're dirty texting me.
PianoCompGeek81: Put a fork in me. I'm done. How about you call me when you're done with your smut fest and I'll help you…if you know what I mean. *wink wink*
ARomanticatHeart86: *nudge nudge* Use those fingers good and not evil, right?
PianoCompGeek81: Exactly. Love you, baby.
ARomanticatHeart86: Love you more, Edward. Talk to you soon.
Bella logged off the site and I leaned back in my chair. Alice knocked on my door. "Hey Older. How are you doing?"
"I'm okay. I'm sorry I've been a zombie," I said with a sad grin. Alice danced over to me and sat down on my lap. "I just really miss Bella. It's like part of me is missing."
"I know, Older," Alice said as she gave me a hug. "I feel the same way when I'm separated from Jasper. I'm not going to say that it gets easier. Because it doesn't. You need to be strong for your girl."
I nodded and put my head on Alice's shoulder. "I still miss her."
"For now, stop missing her and let's look at family room furniture," Alice said as she turned on my lap, typing in a web address. We spent an hour looking at furniture. It all looked the same to me. Expensive and gaudy. I liked the stuff we had in the condo, but Alice was going to take it with her. It was going to fit in Jasper's townhouse. As Alice was trying to sell me on some insane sectional sofa, my phone rang from my pocket. Alice kissed my cheek and lithely left my office. I picked up my phone and walked toward my bedroom, closing the door.
"Hello?"
"Hey, Edward," Bella said, her voice breathy. "Did you miss me?"
"Did you really just ask that?"
"Yeah, I'm dumb."
"Bella, you aren't dumb. You're one of the smartest people that I know. And to answer your question, of course I missed you. I always miss you," I grinned. "How was the rest of smut fest?"
"Ugh!"
"That good?"
"The room was filled with overweight women who live vicariously through Rose's characters; getting their jollies off in fiction because their husbands can't cut it."
"To each their own," I snickered. "Do I get your jollies off?"
"Every single time, Edward," Bella purred. "Sometimes more than once." My pants got tighter and I fell onto the bed, closing my eyes. "I miss feeling you inside me, Edward."
"Fuck me," I moaned.
"Little hard to do over the phone, angel," Bella giggled.
"Not in the traditional sense," I said as I sat up, putting the phone on speaker. I began unbuttoning my shirt and tossing it onto the floor. "Are you willing to try something with me, Bella?"
"What's that?"
"Um, phone sex?" I squeaked. Breathe, Cullen. This is your girlfriend. Soon to be your fiancée. You can talk dirty to her. She's seen you naked. Numerous times.
"Phone sex? I, um, well…"
"If you're aren't comfortable, love," I said as I fell back onto the bed. I unbuckled my pants and slowly eased them over my hips. Even if I can't have phone sex with my girlfriend, I'm still jerking off when I get off the damn phone.
"Okay. Hold on, Edward," Bella said. I heard some rustling and a low thump. "Shit!"
"You okay, Bella?" I asked.
"Fine! Just stubbed my toe," Bella said. She sounded like she was in a tunnel. A few seconds later, Bella came back. "Sorry, angel."
"It's okay, love," I said, a blush covering my pale skin. I moved back onto my bed and eased my boxer briefs off my body. I stared at my naked body. The bruises had faded and I wasn't waking up sore, thankfully. "So…?"
"Yeah, what do we do now?' Bella giggled nervously.
"Are you naked?" I asked
"Yes. Are you?"
"Uh huh," I said as I ran my hand over my chest. I can't do this. I'm too much of a prude to do this. Shit. "God, I'm nervous, Bella. It's so much easier with you here."
"Tell me about it. I'm so flushed right now. I think my entire body is a bright pink," Bella said quietly.
"Me too," I laughed. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. "What are you doing, love?"
"Fussing with my hair," Bella answered honestly. "Trying to calm down. Imagining you here next to me."
"If I was next to you, what would I be doing, Bella?"
"Touching my body."
"Do it, baby. Touch your body. Pretend it's my hands caressing your soft skin," I murmured. I ran my own hand over my chest and envisioned Bella touching me. My cock sprang to life at the thought of her. I closed my eyes and pictured her fingers gliding over my heated skin. "What does it feel like, Bella?"
"Different," Bella said anxiously. "I can't do this, Edward."
"Okay, listen to my voice," I muttered. "I'm right next to you, Bella. I'm kissing your neck and driving you wild. Do you like it when I kiss your neck? You always squirm when I run my lips along your pulse point."
"I love when your lips are on me, Edward," Bella said breathily. "So soft."
"Not as soft as your lips, Bella. I love feeling them against my mouth. Kissing down my neck. But do you know what I love the most about your mouth?"
"What?"
"When those pretty pink lips are wrapped around my cock," I growled. Bella moaned. "Your tongue swirling around the head of my dick. Shit, baby, I'm so hard just imagining it." I cannot believe I'm doing this. Me. Prude boy. The man who was a virgin a month ago. Talking dirty to my girlfriend. FUUUUUUUUUCK.
"What are you doing to take care of your problem, Edward?" Bella said seductively.
"I'm stroking my cock, imagining it's you. What are you doing, love?"
"I'm touching my breasts, thinking that it's your strong hands caressing the tender mounds. What do you want me to do with my breasts? My tits, Edward?"
"Pinch your nipples, gorgeous." I put the phone on my chest and I began stroking my cock, long, even strokes. I listened to her quiet moans and it spurred me on. "I love the sounds you make, Bella. It's the most beautiful music. I can imagine what you're doing. I'm so fucking hard. Tell me what you want me to do to you next?"
"Your tongue, Edward. I want your tongue on my body."
"Where do you want my tongue, Bella? Suckling your perfect breasts?"
"Ungh," she groaned. "No, Edward."
"Where, baby? Your mouth? Tell me where you want my tongue."
"My pussy, Edward. I want you to fuck my pussy with your tongue," Bella mewled.
"Do you, now?" I growled. "Put your hand between your thighs, Bella. Are you wet? Tell me." I moved my hand up and down my cock so slowly. I didn't want to come too quickly. If possible, I wanted to come with my love.
"Fuck, Edward. I'm so wet," Bella panted. "So wet. I'm spilling out of my body."
"That is the sweetest nectar, baby. I love your arousal. I could live off your pussy alone. Swirl your finger around your clit, Bella. How does it feel?"
"So good, Edward."
I moaned and licked the palm of my hand to get some lubrication on my cock. My hips bucked and I sped up my strokes. "Bella, I want you dip your fingers into your pussy. Feel how tight you are. Are you doing that, baby?"
"Yesssssss," Bella hissed.
"Now lick your fingers like you would lick my cock," I snarled. Fuck, I'm so god damned close. I heard Bella's moaning and a light sucking sound. "Does tasting yourself turn you on? It fucking turns me on. God, I wish I was licking your sweet pussy, love."
"You taste better."
"Hmmm…" I replied as I sped up my movements on my dick. I was so hard, it was aching. "I wish your mouth was around my cock while I was licking your delicious pussy. God, I want that so badly, Bella. Do you?"
"Oh, yes, Edward…I want you fuck my pussy hard with your tongue and make me come all over your face," Bella breathed.
"Shit, Bella. I fucking want you. I want you now. I want to bury my dick into your hot body and make you scream. I can't wait until we're together again, baby. I'm going to lick your clit and fuck your pussy with my tongue so hard, you won't be able to remember your name, let alone walk. Do you want that, Bella?"
"Yes, Edward. I want you to fuck me," Bella panted. "I'm so close."
"You can't come until I tell you, Isabella," I said forcefully. "Pinch your clit with your fingers and fuck your pussy with your other hand." My movements were so erratic, I had such a hard time focusing on her sounds. Her moaning was growing louder.
"Edward…" she moaned. "Please!"
"Do you want to come, Isabella?"
"Fuck! Yes! Please, baby!" she screamed. I twisted my hand and my balls tightened. I was about ready to blow. "Edward…!"
"Come, Isabella. Let go, baby," I yelled as a hot stream of semen sprayed all over my belly. I roared and fell back onto my pillows. I breathed heavily and heard Bella's soft gasping pants over the phone. "You okay, Bella?"
"Hot damn, Edward," Bella said breathily. "That was fucking steamy. Where did you get that?"
"Um, I have no clue," I laughed. "I'm covered in a mess, though. Side effect of masturbation, I guess."
"I'd lick it all off of you," Bella purred.
"Hmm, sounds like a tempting offer," I replied. "I didn't offend you, did I?"
"No. Not at all. Your voice is perfect to be a phone sex operator," Bella giggled.
"Yeah, I'll add that to my list of special skills to my resume. 'Phone sex operator voice,'" I snickered as I picked up my shirt to wipe off my chest. "I really would rather make love to you."
"This is the next best thing," Bella said. I could hear the smile in her voice. "Tomorrow we're off to New York and then I head back to Phoenix. I can't believe how fast this couple of weeks has gone."
"For you, maybe. It's been dragging for me," I said as I slipped between the sheets. "I've been a hot mess since you've left. A walking zombie."
"We'll see each other soon, Edward," Bella said reassuringly.
"I know. It's tough," I sighed. Bella yawned loudly. I laughed. "Okay, gorgeous. You need to sleep. I'll talk to you, love." I'll see you in a few days with a ring in my pocket, Mrs. Cullen. Erm, Masen. I mean…shit, I'm having an identity crisis.
"Sleep well, Edward. I love you."
"I love you, more," I whispered as I hung up the phone. I plugged in my cell phone and turned off the light, curling around the pillows that Bella slept on while she was at my condo. I drifted into a deep sleep, dreaming of my love. My fiancée.
xx ANSOL xx
"Edward do you have everything packed?" Alice asked from my bed.
"Yes, Alice."
"Clothes?"
"Check."
"Toothbrush?"
"And toothpaste. Aren't you proud?"
"Edward, don't be an ass. Clean underwear?"
"Seriously, Alice? I'm 31. Not twelve. I packed clean underwear."
"The engagement ring?"
"That is NOT going in my luggage. I have it my carry on. That way if my luggage gets lost, I have it on me," I answered, giving my sister a pointed look. "It's an expensive ring. Very expensive."
"Mom had it appraised, right?"
"It's worth over $100,000," I said. "Maybe I'll keep it in my pocket."
"Holy hell," Alice breathed. "Okay. What's the plan for your proposal?"
"I've arranged for Bella and Rosalie to get a handsome cab ride around Central Park. The horse and carriage are going to be decked out in white roses. I've already called the company and made the arrangements. After their ride, the carriage is going to drop them off at the Alice in Wonderland statue in Central Park. It's one of Bella's favorite stories growing up as a kid. I'm going to be there with a bouquet of white roses, wearing my black suit. Looking all suave and confident."
"When in reality, you're going to be shitting in your pants, right?" Alice giggled.
"Um, yeah. I'm going to be hidden from sight, waiting for the cue from Rosalie. Eventually she's going to bring up her missing me. Saying something along the lines that Bella wishes I was there. Once I hear that Bella does want me there, I'm going to magically appear and surprise her. Probably after she calms down from seeing me, I'm going to fall to one knee and propose to her."
"Do you know what you're going to say?" Alice asked, her hazel eyes filled with excitement.
"I have it planned in my head," I replied as I closed my garment bag. "But I'm going to go with what's in my heart while I'm there. If I don't shit my pants."
"And you asked her mom's permission, right?" Alice asked.
"Yep. Remember when I was gone the Thursday the week Bella left? I was in Phoenix, asking permission from Renee and her step dad, Phil," I said. "Okay, I think I'm good. You ready to take me to the airport?"
"You bet, Older. I'm so happy for you. Proposing to your girl. I'm so excited. I'm getting a sister," Alice squealed.
"In-law. Sister –in-law," I said. "Let's go."
Alice bounced off the bed and we headed down to the garage. She drove my Volvo to O'Hare and I kissed her cheek before checking into to the kiosk and depositing my garment bag on the carousel. I sent a quick text to Rose with my flight information and the room that I was staying in at the Plaza Hotel, which was the same hotel that she and Bella were staying. After going through security, I got some dinner and then waited by my gate until my flight was called. Once it was, I sat down and waited for the take off. I popped in my ear buds and listened to some classical music. I shut my eyes and before I knew it, we were landing at La Guardia.
I got off the plane and got my garment bag from baggage claim. I then double checked to see if the tiny leather box was still in my carryon and it was. I hopped in a cab, said a prayer and headed to the Plaza Hotel. Once I checked in, I headed up to my room. I had reserved the Edwardian Suite, ironically enough. It was expensive, but I wanted to spoil my Bella. I sent another text to Rose, informing her that I was here and what room I was in. About ten minutes after I sent the text, I heard a quiet knock at my door.
I opened the door and Rose slipped inside. "Hey Edward," Rose said as she hugged me.
"How are you doing?" I asked.
"I'm fine. Bella's been…well, you probably know because you are probably in the same boat," Rose said with a sigh.
"A walking zombie?"
"Bingo."
"It's so tough, Rose. I never imagined how difficult it could be," I sighed as I flopped down on the couch. "She's my future. My present. My everything. It pains me to be away from her."
"I know, Edward. Though, Bella did tell me that you two had some pretty hot, steamy phone sex a couple nights ago. I heard her moaning and I applauded you," Rose laughed. "Good job, SGB."
"Yeah, that was tough. I mean, really tough. We both got our respective releases, but I was so many different shades of red," I grumbled.
"Edward, you have a sexy voice. Very smooth and deep. You'd make a great phone sex operator," Rose giggled.
"That's what Bella said. I don't think so. I'm the guy who wouldn't even fathom saying the word cock or pussy three months ago," I said, shooting Rose a glance. "I barely swore. Now, I'm mother fucking everything."
"I've taught you well, my student," Rose said with mock solemnity.
"Whatever."
"In the past two months, Edward, I've seen this huge shift in your personality. You're still this reserved, respectful, geeky guy but now you have a sexy edge. A swagger. Confidence. Hell, if Bella hadn't nailed you, I would have pounced all over your shit. You are fucking amazing," Rose smiled.
"Thanks, Rosalie. That means a lot to me."
"So, am I going to see the rock before Bella gets it on her finger?"
"Let me get it," I said as I hopped off the couch. I pulled the tiny box out and handed it to Rose. She flipped open the lid and gasped. "Do you think she'll like it? You're her best friend, and all."
"What type of stone is this?"
"Alexandrite. It was my grandmother's engagement ring," I said as I sat down next to her. "It was left to me in her will."
"This is the most beautiful ring I've ever seen. More beautiful than mine and I have six carat diamond," Rose said with a wry grin.
"You have a fucking planet on your finger, Rose," I snickered. "But you think she'll like it? Honestly?"
"Edward, she'll love it. She'll love it because you didn't spend money on her and that it belonged to your grandmother. She eats up that shit. When are you heading back to Chicago?"
"I leave the same day you do. I arranged for a similar flight time as you and Bella," I replied. "Then we have two weeks and I fly to Phoenix to help her move."
"Well, I'll let you get settled and I'll see you tomorrow. You did good, SGB," Rose smiled as she hugged me.
"Bye, Rose." She slipped out of my room. I took out my suit and hung it in the closet. Afterward, I stripped down to my boxers and called Bella. She didn't know that I was in New York. I was calling her from Chicago. Theoretically. I dialed her number and waited for her to pick up.
"Hi, Edward," Bella giggled.
"Someone's in a good mood," I said, arching my brow.
"I'm a little drunk. I miss you so much, baby. I just wanted to have some alcohol to dull the pain of being separated from you. I raided the mini bar," Bella hiccupped. "Excuse me."
"Oh lord," I sighed. "How much have you had to drink, love?"
"Three of the bottles of rum and one of vodka. You want to have phone sex tonight?" Bella squeaked.
"Tempting. Talking to my drunk girlfriend who probably won't even remember it in the morning," I snickered. "I'd rather just hear about your day. How do you like New York?"
"The people are fucking rude, I tell you! Ever hear of the two words, excuse and me? I've been bumped so many times on the sidewalk, I'm covered in bruises," Bella grumbled.
"Looks like we're not moving here," I laughed. "Which is totally fine. I hate New York too."
"I can't wait until I'm with you, Edward. I miss sleeping with you. I feel safe with you," Bella murmured.
"I want to protect you, baby. I wish I was with you. I'll be your bodyguard," I said. I was so close to going down to her room, but that would totally ruin the surprise. I took off my glasses and rubbed my face. "So, what's on tap tomorrow?"
"Book signing in the morning. Then Rose is taking me on a house and carriage ride afterward around Central Park. I'm actually looking forward to that," Bella said, the smile evident in her voice.
"I hope you have fun," I said, my heart stammering against my ribs. "Anyhow, I have an early meeting tomorrow. I'm going to hit the sack, love. I miss you and I love you, so much."
"I miss you more, Edward. When I see you, I'm jumping your bones," Bella snorted.
"I'm so calling Rose to cut you off," I guffawed. "Got to sleep, gorgeous. I'll talk to you soon."
"I love you, Edward. Eddie-kins. Edwardo. Edwina," Bella said in a fit of laughter.
"I love you, too, lush. Drink some water and take a few ibuprofen. Go to sleep," I commanded.
"Sir! Yes, sir! Good night."
"Sweet dreams." I hung up the phone and sent Rose a text, asking her to check on Bella. About a half hour later, Rose responded saying that Bella was snoring in her bed, hugging Rufus. I was grateful and decided to try and sleep.
That didn't happen.
At all.
My brain would not shut off.
What if she says no?
What is she tells me to fuck off?
What if she tells me that she's secretly a guy?
What if…
Edward, she'll say yes. Stop obsessing – Alice
Easier said than done, Mary Alice. I'm having a panic attack here – Edward
She'll. Say. Yes. – Alice
I hope so – Edward
I know so. Good night, Older – Alice
Good night, Younger. Thanks – Edward
"Freaky twin," I mumbled to the phone.
I heard that! – Alice
Okay, I'm definitely losing my damn mind. I rolled over after I plugged in my cell phone and did finally fall into a fitful sleep. When I woke up the following morning, I was disoriented. It took me a few seconds to remember where I was. Once I did, I hopped out of bed and went to shower. I checked the time and it was after ten. I was supposed to be at the statue by one.
I took my time to shower and shave, leaving my face smooth as a baby's ass. I carefully coiffed my crazy hair, which I had cut the day before. I popped in my contact lenses. I slipped on my dress pants and dress shirt, ordering some breakfast from room service. As I ate my eggs, I watched the television, not really paying attention. I finished my breakfast and put on my tie. I went into my carryon. I took out Bella's engagement ring and just looked at it. It was a platinum ring with a two carat oval cut Alexandrite stone in the center. Surrounding the Alexandrite were flawless pave set diamonds. On either side of the stone were two smaller diamonds, about ¾ carats each. The shoulders of the ring had more pave set diamonds. It was delicate and dainty, like Bella. I smiled and put it back into the box, slipping it into my pocket. I checked the clock again and I needed to head out. I put my suit coat on over my shoulders, slipped my watch on my wrist and grabbed my cell phone and wallet. I left the tray with my food outside my room and headed down to the lobby.
I stopped at the concierge, asking where there was a nearby florist. She gave me directions to a floral shop about a block away. I walked to the shop and I asked for one single white rose. The shop owner gave me a look like I was nuts. I then explained that I was proposing to my girlfriend. She melted after that and gave me the most beautiful white rose I'd ever seen. I asked for a second one and I gave it to the owner in gratitude. She blushed and I winked on my way out.
I checked my watch and I was cutting it close. I hailed a cab and asked to be dropped off near the Alice in Wonderland Statue in Central Park. The cab driver took off like a bat out of hell and we got there in about ten minutes. It was nearly one and I waited on a bench. I faintly heard the sounds of a horse's hooves. I turned and saw the carriage that was bedecked with white roses. I darted so I was out of sight and watched as Bella and Rose got out of the carriage. I had slipped Rose some money to tip the driver. She paid him and they walked to statue. I could faintly overhear their conversation.
"So, do you like it, Bella?"
"It's so pretty. I can't believe that in this huge city, there's this absolutely gorgeous park," Bella mused.
"New York can suck, but there are some positive qualities," Rose said as she leaned against the statue. "Would you come back?"
"Only with Edward. I want to go to Broadway and see the musicals. I want to go to the Met and see an opera. I want to come back here with him," Bella sniffled. "I miss him so much, Rosalie. I don't know if I can bear to be away from him."
Rose looked over her shoulder, but I was already three steps ahead of her. "Baby, you won't have to," I said as I emerged from the shadows, holding my rose.
"Am I hearing things? Or did Edward just speak?" Bella asked Rosalie. Rose laughed and turned Bella around to face me. I gave her my signature crooked smile as I slowly walked toward her. However, I wanted to sprint to her and gather her in my arms. Cool. Confident. Suave. Bella obviously didn't want to be cool, confident and suave. She ran toward me and jumped into my arms. I held her closely as she sobbed against my shoulder. "You're here. How can you be here? Edward! Oh, Edward!"
"I'm here, love," I murmured in her ear, rubbing her back. She pulled back and crushed her lips against mine. We kissed each other frenetically. I eventually pulled away and put my forehead against hers. "I couldn't be away from you, my love."
"When did you get here?" Bella breathed.
"Last night," I answered. "I called you from the hotel room." Smack! "Ouch!"
"You were in New York and you didn't spend the night with me?" Bella pouted.
"It would have ruined the surprise," I smirked. "But I came here for two reasons. The first one was seeing you."
"The second one?" Bella asked.
I handed her the rose and fell to one knee, holding her trembling hand in mine. "To ask you an important question."
"Edward…"
"Isabella Marie Dwyer, lei è l'amore della mia vita, la mia bell'amica. Presto lei sarà mia moglie. Ti amo. Solo lei. Per tutta di eternità. Lei mi sposerà?"
"I have no idea what you said," Bella giggled nervously.
"What I said was, you are the love of my life, my beautiful girlfriend. Soon you will be my wife. I love you. Only you. For all of eternity. Will you marry me?" I whispered. I reached into my pocket and held out the small box with her ring. I flipped open the lid and looked up at her expectantly. Her face was covered with tears and she was shaking like a leaf. Her chocolate eyes met mine and she nodded emphatically. "Yes?"
"Yes, Edward, I'll marry you," Bella cried. With nervous fingers, I slid her ring down her finger after I took off her promise ring. She slipped it onto her right hand. Once the ring was on her finger, I stood up and cupped her face. "I'll marry you, Edward."
"Yay," I whispered as I bent down to kiss the lips of girlfriend…no, fiancée. Our mouths moved with each other and Bella's fingers twined into my hair. My hands moved from her face and snaked around her tiny waist. "I love you, Isabella Dwyer, soon to be Cullen."
"Isabella Cullen," she murmured against my mouth. "I love that. I love you."
"Me too," I said as I deepened our kiss. I vaguely heard clapping around us. We both blushed and pulled away, still in an embrace.
"That was the most romantic thing I've ever seen," Rose blubbered. "I'm so happy for both of you."
"Thank you, Rosalie. For everything," I smiled as I stood behind my fiancée. "I couldn't have done this without your help."
"Rose knew?" Bella squeaked.
"How else did I sneak past you?" I snickered. "Are you mad?"
"Not mad. Surprised," Bella sighed. "But in the best way."
"Well, Mrs. Cullen," I said, "I am taking you to a musical tonight and then we're going back to my suite to celebrate our engagement. I love you, gorgeous."
"I love you more," Bella muttered as she hugged me tightly.
"I doubt that," I said as kissed her neck. "You are my life, Bella." And she truly was. I couldn't wait until I could start living my life with my love. My fiancée. My wife.
A/N: Well? Proposal okay? Not too cheesy? Right? Check out my profile and find the link to my tumblr…links to all the pictures are there. Leave me love, please ;-)