Author's Note: I own NONE of this. No copyright infringement is intended. I just wanted to borrow the characters and play with them.
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Chapter 25: Holy Crap and Halloween
BPOV
Did I just do that?
Did Edward and I just fuck outside, behind a boathouse?
Did he just rip my panties and pilfer them?
Holy shit!
Edward and I were walking back to the banquet hall after our little tryst. I was wearing his jacket and my ass was cold. I wonder why? Right, no panties. He had a satisfied grin on his face. I was mildly embarrassed. I couldn't believe that we just did that.
We got back to the banquet hall and our little group was dancing in the middle of the dance floor. Edward squeezed my hand and I gave him a small smile, it didn't quite reach my eyes. He face fell when he saw my worried expression.
"What's wrong, beautiful?" he asked, gently caressing my cheek
"I'm sorry I jumped you, Edward. I am so embarrassed," I mumbled.
"Sweetheart, you don't hear me complaining. That was fucking hot," he replied with a suggestive wiggle of the eyebrows.
"Don't expect it regularly, Cullen. You're just irresistible," I giggled.
"Damn straight, woman. Let's dance," Edward said as he wiggled his butt.
"Cute, Edward. You missed your calling as a male stripper. I can so see you in a banana hammock," I laughed as I dropped his jacket by our table.
Edward stopped where he was and his jaw dropped. His face then contorted into the most adorable grimace. "Ew, Bella. Those guys are nasty and gross. I don't even want to know."
"Face it, Edward. You're absolutely gorgeous. You have a great body. You can dance and dance WELL. You should have been a male stripper. However, I'm not sure if I would like all those random women ogling you. You're mine," I said possessively.
"I'll be your male stripper any day, baby. 'I'm too sexy for this shirt, too sexy for this shirt, so sexy it hurts,'" he sang as he gyrated his hips.
"That's hot, Edward," I deadpanned.
"I know. I fucking rock," he said smugly, pulling me onto the dance floor. He continued shaking his ass as we walked on to the dance floor. He turned to face me, walking backwards, shaking his shoulders. I giggled at his antics. Edward can be so serious at times, but he really did have a goofy side. It made me love him more.
We all danced as a group for the rest of the evening. Alice was in hysterics when Edward and Jasper reenacted the entire song "Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy." Jasper was definitely not Express material. He could sing like an angel, play bass like a mad man, but couldn't dance for shit. He did some random thrust, shake, twist thing that was not attractive. Alice watched him and shook her head in embarrassment.
Alice and Edward did the jitterbug to some Brian Setzer song. She was so tiny; Edward easily lifted her for the throws and jumps. Edward tried to get me to do that with him, but I reminded him of my "situation" and his eyes widened. Edward's cheeks turned pink and he patted his pocket.
Yes, Cullen. You have my underwear in your pocket. My ripped panties. I'm currently going commando. I don't want the entire school to see my girlie bits. My NAKED, BARE girlie bits.
Things began to slow down. Edward pulled me into his arms and we were happily ensconced in our little love bubble. I laid my head on his chest and took a deep breath. I reveled in the clean, musky scent that was purely Edward. I felt him nuzzle my hair and take a deep breath of his own. He hummed happily as we moved around the dance floor. I closed my eyes and held tightly onto my love. I was still not happy about the situation with Tanya, but he was mine. He never wanted to be with her. It only was a relationship of convenience. However, he loved me. He loved only me. I loved only him.
I opened my eyes and looked around the room. I saw Jasper and Alice dancing with each other, making googly eyes at one and another. I saw Rose and Emmett slow dancing. They were pretty separated, but Rose let Emmett touch her. His hand was around her waist and his other hand was holding her hand to his chest. The only guy that I had seen touch Rose was Edward and that was during Express rehearsal. That was a quick hand hold, a turn, maybe a fast dip. For Rose to have Emmett touch her like this was huge. I caught her eyes and gave her a huge smile. She returned it with a nervous smirk. I gave her an encouraging thumbs up. Edward, who had his head resting on mine, picked it up and turned his head toward Rose and Emmett's direction. He gave her a warm smile as well.
The dance wound down. Everyone was sufficiently danced out. We all headed out to the cars. Emmett and Rose were holding hands as we walked to Edward's car. We quickly got in. I sat in the front with Edward while Rose and Emmett were in the back. We sped back to Emerson. Jasper and Alice headed up to Jasper's room. Edward and Emmett hung out with Rose and me. When we got into the room, I slipped into the bathroom to change and put on some underwear. I popped in a DVD and the four of us watched it in silence. After the movie, Emmett decided to go upstairs. Edward warned Emmett to knock first. He rolled his eyes and disappeared out the door. No less than two minutes later, Emmett returned with a look of pure disgust on his face.
"I never knew the hick was so…so…flexible," he said with a shudder. "And Alice…"
"Don't, Em. She's my sister and I do NOT want to know," Edward threatened.
Rose offered her bed to Emmett and went to sleep in Alice's. I gave Emmett a pair of basketball shorts that I pilfered from him. He slept in the shorts and his t-shirt under his dress shirt. Edward and I snuggled on my bed. He wore his boxers and undershirt, being mindful of the extra people in the room. Sleep came quickly as the exhaustion of the past few days hit me.
xx LC xx
The weather was getting colder. The leaves on the trees were turning colors and beginning to fall off. Midterms were approaching. It was my body's cue to get very sick.
The week following Homecoming was good. Edward was being overly doting, undoubtedly still trying to suck up to me after his fuck-up with Tanya. I could feel myself getting tired and run down. I usually got pretty sick during school sometime in October. Like clockwork, I woke up on a Tuesday morning feeling tired. By the end of the day, I was home in my bed, running a fever and had the chills.
Edward was frantic while I was sick. I got up for Aural Harmony like usual and went to class. Edward brought me my usual cup of coffee but I couldn't drink it. My throat felt like it was on fire. I had him drink it and I went to The Cage before class to get some hot tea. As class continued, I felt worse and worse. My head was pounding, my body aching and my throat had a burn in it. The tea, which usually soothes the throat, actually hurt as it went down. Edward felt my forehead during class and his brow furrowed.
"You're burning up, Bella. You need to back to bed," he admonished.
"I'm fine, Edward. I have my voice lesson and then I'll go back to Patterson," I croaked, my voice sounding like that of a heavy smoker.
"Yeah and you'll get so much done with your voice sounding like you smoke a pack a day. I'm pretty certain your voice teacher will understand if you can't make it to your lesson," he chided.
I relented. I was feeling too shitty to put up a fight. I quickly wrote my voice teacher a note, asking Edward to drop it off to her before he went to his biochemistry lab. I barely got through the rest of Aural Harmony. Edward said that he would take notes during U.S. History for me and make copies. I nodded weakly and dragged my sick ass back to Patterson.
I quickly stripped off my clothes and put on my favorite flannel pajama bottoms and oversized hoodie. I took out my contact lenses and rolled my body back into bed. As soon as my head hit the pillow, I was asleep.
When I woke up, it was dark out. I heard some clicking sounds. I reached and found my glasses and slipped them onto my face. Edward was typing on his laptop on my desk. His beautiful face was swathed in the cool glow of his computer screen. Most of the lights were off except for a small desk lamp on Rose's desk. His brow was furrowed as he typed away. He had a pencil stuck behind his ear and a book open to his left. I went to sit up and my whole body refused to move. I was so achy. I felt like I went ten rounds with a heavy weight boxer. I slumped back into the bed with a low groan.
"Bella?" Edward asked. "Are you okay, baby?"
"No. I feel like total crap," I groaned, my voice barely above a whisper.
"What are your symptoms?" he asked as he came to my bedside. He sat down on the edge and he felt my forehead. His hands felt so cool against my heated skin. He grimaced as he felt my face. He went back to my desk and got the thermometer that I kept in my top left drawer. He turned it on and held it out for me. I rolled my eyes and put the thermometer in my mouth. It beeped a few moments later. "102.9! Bella, you're fever is too high. Symptoms, beautiful. I want to get you some meds. Perhaps my father can write you a prescription if it's strep."
I went to open my mouth and my hand went to my throat. Edward hopped up and got a pad and a pencil. I quickly jotted down my symptoms. He read them and pulled out his phone. "Hi, Dad. Bella's sick."
I heard Carlisle's muffled reply and Edward nodded at what he said. He then read off my list of symptoms, along with my temperature. Edward took a hesitant glance at me. He picked up his lanyard with his keys on it. He clicked on the flashlight that he kept on there. "Bella, can you open your mouth and say 'ahh?'" he said with a skeptical look on his face. I quirked an eyebrow and reluctantly did so. He described what he saw, with clinical terms that one would hear in a doctor's office. He cradled his phone between his shoulder and chin and lightly felt on my neck. He pulled his hands away and untucked his phone from his shoulder. He gently cupped my face and brushed my messy hair from my forehead. He and Carlisle spoke for a few minutes. Edward dashed to the computer and rattled of a phone number. "Bella, are you allergic to penicillin?" I shook my head no. "Okay, thanks Dad. I'll call you is she doesn't improve. I will. Bye."
Edward turned and faced me with a sad expression on his face. I mouthed 'what?'
"Based on your symptoms, the state of your throat and fever, my dad thinks you have strep throat. He's calling in a prescription for a Z-pack at Target. I'm going to pick it up for you along with other provisions. He said for you to go to the campus health center tomorrow before you take the prescription, though. A rapid strep test should do that for you. I can take you to the hospital if you want it done sooner, though. I hate seeing you sick, beautiful," he said miserably.
I started to scramble out of bed because Edward needed my insurance information. I was barely standing when the room began to spin. The next thing I knew, I was in Edward's arms, his handsome face etched in worry. "Bella! Are you okay?"
I blinked a few times and I managed to focus my eyes onto his. I nodded weakly and he scooped me up and put me back into bed. I whispered "Insurance card. Hand me my purse."
He tucked me back into bed and grabbed my purse. I opened it up and pulled out my wallet. I took out my driver's license, insurance card and debit card. I handed the three cards to him. He pushed my debit card back into my hands and put the other two in his wallet. "I'll be back in about an hour, beautiful. I love you. Get some more sleep," he said as he kissed my forehead. He rested his cheek and against mine. He went back into my top left drawer in my desk and pulled out some ibuprofen. He also got a water bottle from my fridge. He handed me three pills and the water. I quickly downed them, grimacing as they went down my throat. "Text me if you need anything. Be back in a bit," Edward said with a smile and he dashed out the door. I settled back into bed and fell into a fitful sleep. I woke up a short time later and Edward had returned.
He had a bag from Panera Bread, a Target bag and bouquet of flowers. I sat up slowly and Edward hunched down on the corner of my small bed. He pulled out a small cup of soup and some hot tea. He handed me the soup and put the tea on my desk. "I wasn't sure what you liked, soup-wise. I went with the old favorite, chicken noodle. I also picked up some cough syrup, cold medicine, expectorant, cough drops and a variety pack of tea bags. Also, a small white board. I'm assuming it hurts too much to talk, so use this," he said holding up the board. I put the soup on my desk and reached for the board. I quickly ripped off the plastic covering and he handed me a marker.
Thank you, Edward. I appreciate you taking care of me, handsome, I wrote on the board.
"Baby, I'll do everything in my power to protect you. I'll protect you from crazy ex-boyfriends to a bout with strep throat. I love you. Eat your soup. You probably haven't eaten anything all day," he said with a crooked grin. I shook my head no and took a tentative sip of the soup. It was good. The warmth felt good on my sore throat. Edward went back to the Panera bag and pulled out a cup of soup for himself. He also got some chicken noodle soup. He also tucked into a small Greek salad. After we ate our dinner, Edward took out some cold and flu medicine and handed it to me. He also handed me a water bottle. "Take these. They'll help you sleep more comfortably."
Thank you, Dr. Cullen. You should have stuck with medicine. You're good at this whole bedside manner thing.
"Ah, no. I have some minor issues with blood. I actually passed out in biology class when we did blood typing my senior year of high school. I think I've found my path with music education. We can teach the future of the world," he said as he held his hand to his heart.
Oh, please.
"I know, it's cheesy," he laughed.
I love your brand of cheese, Edward.
"I'm thinking I'm in a feta type of mood today," he snorted, popping in a forkful of his Greek salad. .
Dork. You are a dork.
"But I'm your dork," he said as he rubbed my cheek. His hand stayed on my face, I'm assuming to check my temperature. He grabbed the thermometer again and handed it to me. I rolled my eyes and stuck it under my tongue. It beeped and he pulled it out, "101.9. It's going down. That's good. However, it could because of the ibuprofen I gave you earlier. Do you still feel achy?"
I nodded and then yawned. Edward took the soup cup from my legs and gently pushed me back onto the bed. He left a bottle of Gatorade and a bottle of water on the desk. I picked up my board.
Can you stay until I fall asleep, handsome?
"Of course, beautiful. I'll stay as long as you want. I like watching you sleep. It's fascinating. Even more so when you're delirious," he chuckled.
Oh good lord. What did I say?
"You were moaning a lot. I'm assuming they were good dreams because they were moans that I happen to enjoy thoroughly," he said with a twinkle in his eyes.
As soon as I'm healthy, you'll be hearing more of those moans.
"Oh, yeah, baby. Go to sleep. You are spending tomorrow in bed. AFTER you go to the health center. Got it?" I nodded. "Good. I love you, Bella."
I love you too, Edward.
My eyes drifted shut and I managed to fall asleep. I vaguely remember Edward kissing me on the forehead before he left. "I love you so much, beautiful," he whispered against my hair. I hummed happily and fell into a deep sleep.
xx LC xx
So, I had strep throat. I had one of the worst cases of strep throat the nurse in the health center had ever seen. She began to write my script but I held up my Z-pack and she nodded. She told me to start it as soon as possible. I had to stay in bed the rest of the day today and take it easy the rest of the week. I managed to lay low until Friday. I had to go to class on Friday. I also had to go to see Garrett.
It was my last day working with him. The groups that I worked with were planning a going-away party for me and I wanted to be there for that. Edward insisted that he come with me. He was afraid that I would get light-headed and crash the car. I teased him that he was more worried about his Soccer Mobile than me. He choked out the pop that he drinking and spit it across the room. He gave such a glare.
We left after my psychology class, which as hour later earlier than I usually left for the school. We got to the high school and Edward shamelessly flirted with Mrs. Cope again. We met up with Garrett at the tail end of his plan period. He said that he was going to miss me. I replied, using my board.
I'm going to miss working with you too, Garrett. Thank you for the invaluable information you've given me.
Garrett quirked an eyebrow. Edward explained that I was getting over being sick and was on self-prescribed vocal rest. Edward also informed Garrett in his change in majors. Garrett was thoroughly excited. He invited Edward to do his observation hours with him as well. Edward agreed instantly.
Each of the classes that I had worked with had planned some sort of celebration for my last day. The treble choir all baked cookies and begged me to come and hear them sing at their Collage Concert in mid-December. I said I'd try, but it was finals week that week for us. The mixed choir all chipped in and bought me a fancy folder to hold my music in. It had my name embossed on the front "Isabella Swan, Choral Conductor." The concert choir had made a CDs of all of their favorite choral songs and gave them to me. I had forty-five CDs of repertoire that they liked and would recommend a choir to sing. The choir president, who was in the concert choir, typed up the list of songs that they gave me. I was truly touched by their generosity and kindness. I felt my eyes tear with each period that passed. After concert choir, I was exhausted. Edward and I both gave Garrett a hug. Garrett said he'd write me a letter of recommendation and send it to Edward's home for when I looked for a job in the future. I smiled and thanked him.
Edward and I headed back to Emerson. I fell asleep along the way. I hazily remembered pulling into Patterson, Edward picking me up and carrying me to my room. He laid me in my bed and crawled over me. He wrapped his arms around me and we both fell asleep, cuddled up with each other.
Over the weekend, it was Edward's turn to get sick. He had run himself ragged. Thankfully, he didn't have strep throat. He just had a bad cold. I was still feeling like crap, but better than before. I spent the entire weekend taking care of my poor, pitiful boyfriend. He made the worst patient. He was grouchy, cranky and bitchy. I just slept when I was sick. Edward whined like a baby, complaining about every ache, every sniffle and every cough.
The one positive about Edward's illness was the effect on his voice. His voice, which was usually smooth and velvety, had turned raspier and dropped an octave. He sounded insanely sexy. He rolled his eyes when I mentioned it to him saying I was still delirious. He was still 'super-bass-sexy-voice man' when Monday rolled around and he couldn't sing during University Singers. I was told not to sing for at least a week. I could possibly get back into things by this coming Friday. So, Edward and I both just sat in rehearsals, taking notes, not being able to actively participate. He hated it and quite frankly, so did I.
On Thursday, during Express rehearsal, Felix had given us the information about our upcoming overnight trip. We were going to a competition in Toronto.
Thank goodness I have my passport for when Renee married Phil in Mexico.
We had learned about half of our show and we needed to try it out. Felix informed us that we would be leaving on Thursday and coming back late on Sunday. We were driving up to Toronto, which was about a six and half hour drive. Felix pushed us extra hard that night because we had three more rehearsals before our trip. Even though Edward and I couldn't sing, we still danced. We both fell asleep in my room that night, exhausted from rehearsal.
xx LC xx
Since the dance, Rose and Emmett had grown closer. They had gone out on a few dates, but they haven't done much besides hugging. Emmett was being extraordinarily patient with her. I went out one day with Emmett to run some errands and he said that he felt that Rose was the 'one.' This coming from Emmett, the eternal child, floored me. I told him to treat her right and not fuck with her. I smacked on the head for good measure. He said that he would never hurt his Rosie.
The following weekend of the dance, all of us were going to a Halloween party at The Chapel. It was a costume party. Earlier in the week, Alice, Rose and I went to get costumes. We were all going to be paired with our 'guys' and our costumes coordinated.
Alice found this local theater/costume shop. She and Jasper were going as a cowboy and saloon girl. Rose and Emmett were going as a football player and cheerleader. Edward and I were going as Romeo and Juliet, my two favorite fictional characters. Originally he wanted to go as teacher and student, but I put the kibosh on that. He tried to pull the pitiful puppy dog pout but I abjectly refused.
I just want to see Edward in tights. He's got damn fine legs.
Originally, Breaking Midnight was asked to play at the party at The Chapel, but Edward's and my illness had caused us to back out. I was still weak vocally and didn't want to chance causing any damage and Edward couldn't hit the notes needed for the songs we usually sing, though his voice was almost back to normal. It was in the best interest of our health that we decided to pull out.
The day of the Halloween party, Alice turned into psycho-pixie. She was barking orders to me, Rose and the guys about our costumes. Jasper got sick of it and pulled her into a passionate embrace. He whispered something into her ear and her eyes got as big as saucers. Her mouth opened and stayed open as Jasper continued whispering. She nodded a few times, wrapping her arms around his waist. He gave her one more kiss and pulled away.
Edward watched the whole interaction with his jaw scraping the ground.
"What did you do to my sister? She's, like, quiet," he squeaked.
"Sex is a powerful persuasive tool, Cullen," Jasper replied smugly.
Edward shuddered at what Jasper said. The rest of us laughed. Alice remained calm for the rest of the day. She even let Rose and I get dressed on our own.
I think Hell just froze over. The pixie believes that we are capable of dressing ourselves.
After the party, Jasper informed Edward that he was taking Alice to the same bed and breakfast that we went to after my first concert as a member of Breaking Midnight. Emmett graciously offered to hang out in Ben Cheney's room so Edward and I could get some time alone. It had been awhile since we had some quality time. Nearly two weeks since that fateful weekend. Unfortunately, illness, midterms and life got in the way of our sex lives. Edward was also leery about making love while I was on antibiotics. He said that he loved me and wanted to have children with me, but not now.
We all got dressed for the party. Jasper was wearing a pair of blue jeans, with a pair of chaps over the top, complete with cowboy boots. He also wore a white shirt, black vest and long black leather duster. Around his neck was a red bandana and on his hips were pretty authentic-looking guns. On his dirty blonde locks was an authentic ten gallon hat. The sad thing, he owned all of it. He really was a hick. Alice was wearing a pink and black saloon girl's outfit. She had a bright pink feather sticking out of her head and a pink feather boa. She was wearing a pair of black tights with black laced up ankle boots with a coordinating garter on her thigh. Emmett was wearing an Emerson football uniform. It was actually his old uniform from when he played. Rose managed to borrow an Emerson cheerleading outfit from one of the girls on the floor. Her blonde hair was piled on her head in a high ponytail.
Edward's costume was quite elegant. He had on a cream 'poufy' blouse with a black vest that went over the top. He also wore a pair of black leggings and black boots. Over his shoulders, he had on a maroon cape. He even wore a sword. My dress was a dusty rose. It had an empire waist that pushed my breasts up and created a very nice cleavage. This was good since I really didn't have much in the chest area. The skirt of the dress was same color and was chiffon. It was a knee-length dress. Alice and I wanted a modern representation of Juliet's dress. The dress was piped with silver and gold thread. On my head, I had a small headband with the same piping as my dress.
Before we headed up to the party, we asked Angela to take our pictures. Angela couldn't go to the party because she had to be on duty. She was pissed. She took our photos, begrudgingly, wishing she could come with us.
We all piled into Edward's car. It had gotten pretty cold and you could almost feel the snow about to fall.
Emmett was in the front seat. Jasper, Rose, Alice and I were in the back seat. Jasper held Alice on his lap. It was a short drive, so there were no worries. We got to the party and walked into The Chapel. Rose and Emmett went off to go get some alcohol. Alice dragged Jasper onto the dance floor. Edward and I went to go to sit on one of the couches.
Rose and Emmett returned with four cups of beer. Emmett handed Edward a cup and Rose gave me one. I was never much a drinker, but I figured I would let loose a little bit tonight. Edward took a long pull of his drink and put it on the table in front of us. He put his arm around my waist and held me close. I held my beer in my lap, sipping it. Rose and Emmett took a seat in a large chair opposite of us. They appeared to be getting pretty cozy.
"So, Rose, how do you like being at Emerson? Is it better than Northwestern?" Edward asked.
"I'm really enjoying it. My classes are a lot of fun and I'm really enjoying spending time with you guys. All of you." She gave Emmett a warm smile. He returned it eagerly, lacing his fingers with hers. "Also, thanks for mentioning me to be in Express. That is a lot of fun," Rose said with a smile.
"You can thank Bella for that. She mentioned you to Tia," Edward replied, rubbing his hand up and down my arm.
"Speaking of Express, we need to get together for our featured dance thing," Rose said with an eye roll. "When are you available?"
"I'm free after University Singers on Mondays and Fridays. Wednesdays, I have my piano lesson for an hour after University Singers, but I'm free after that. Tuesdays and Thursdays are a bit more booked," he said.
"Hmmm, how about we meet on Monday after lunch in one of the small fitness studios in the athletic building. We can use the mirrors. Bella, you come too. If I'm ever unable to do the dance solo, you could step in," Rose said, clapping her hands.
"Are you sure, Rose? You've seen me move," I said with a grimace.
"Fucking-a, Bella. You are an awesome dancer. Walking is your issue," Rose snorted.
Edward stifled a laugh. I punched him in the arm. "You better behave yourself, Cullen. I'll ram my heels into your toes when we perform," I admonished.
"Bella, you are a beautiful dancer. I'm surprised that you can do intricate choreography with ease but cannot walk a flat surface," Edward snickered.
"I blame Renee. She's just as much of a klutz as I am, if not more," I said, flopping back into the couch, crossing my arms over my body.
"I'm sorry, Bella. We don't mean to tease you. Really," Rose said with a sympathetic look on her face.
"Sorry, baby. I love you very much. Clumsiness and all. You're perfect in my eyes," Edward said as he kissed my temple. I rolled my eyes and took a huge pull from my drink.
I'm feeling quite buzzed. It's only one drink…jeez. I'm such a lightweight.
"So, back to this duet-thing. What can I expect?" Edward asked Rosalie. She went into a detailed description of their solo. It sounded extremely complex. Edward's eyes grew large as she continued. When she finished, she looked at Edward with a huge smile on her face.
"How does that sound, Edward?" Rose grinned.
"Ummm, good?" Edward squeaked out, sounding completely overwhelmed.
"Don't sound so excited, Edward. Christ," Rose huffed.
"Rosalie, you realize that I am not a trained dancer. I'm a guy who happens to have a sense of rhythm and body movement. I am apprehensive about half of the stuff you mention because I have no idea what it is," he said, rationally.
"Don't worry, Edward. I'll teach you. It's all in the hips," she giggled.
"Oh, good lord," he blushed.
I leaned in and whispered, "Banana hammock, Edward. It's calling your name."
"Fuck me. I'm so screwed," he said as he buried his head in his hands.
"That's later, baby," I said with a wave of the hand.
Did I just say that out loud?
"Yes, you did just say that out loud," Edward said with a chuckle. He leaned in and brushed his lips along my ear, "You'll be screaming my name later tonight, beautiful." He pulled my earlobe into his teeth and nibbled. "I love you, Bella."
"I love you, Edward," I breathed as I leaned back into his chest. I finished off my drink and went to go get another one. I motioned for anyone else. Edward nodded, as did Emmett. Rose decided not to have any more beer. It tasted like 'toilet water.'
I walked through the crowd of people, to the keg. I waited in line to get some more beer. I was spacing out when I felt a light tap on my shoulder. Confused, I turned to see who was tapping me. I nearly passed out when I saw who it was. I saw a tall body, russet skin, black hair and huge toothy grin.
Jake? Fuck.
"Hey, Bella!"
I blinked a few times.
That's not Jake's voice. It's too high.
My eyes focused on the person standing in front of me. It was Seth Clearwater, Leah's younger brother.
"Hi, Seth! What are you doing here?" I asked, trying to stop the tremor in voice.
"My roommates have friends who go here to Emerson and said that they were having a party that was to end all parties. So far, it's been good. How are you doing, Bells?"
"I'm good. I'm actually really good," I replied as I filled up the glasses with some beer. "I'm here with my brother, roommates and my boyfriend, Edward."
"Boyfriend? Wow! You move fast, Bells. You just moved in two months ago and now you're dating some guy?" Seth said with a glint of anger in his eyes.
He's hiding something.
"Well, we've been together for about the same amount of time. We started dating at the beginning of the semester. He's my roommate's brother. Do you want to meet him?" I asked, desperately wanting to get back to Edward. I needed him.
"Sure, sure. Let me grab one of those," Seth said with a tight smile.
I handed him one of the beers and we walked back to the couch where Emmett, Rose, and Edward sitting. Emmett was talking very animatedly. Edward and Rose were in stitches. Edward was laughing so hard, he had tears running down his face. Emmett saw me approach and his face immediately went serious. I gave him a glare.
"Were you talking about me?" I fumed.
"No, of course not, Isabelly. I was talking about my other sister," he guffawed.
I flipped him off before turning to Seth. "Look who I ran into while I was getting more alcohol. Rosalie Hale, Edward Cullen this is Seth Clearwater," I said introducing Seth.
Seth put down the beer and reached his hand to Rosalie. He gave it a shake. Seth glared at Edward. "Nice to meet you both."
What's his deal?
I handed Rosalie her drink and Edward grabbed the beer that Seth put down. I quickly pulled it from his hands and handed the glass I had in my hand. He gave me a curious look. I gave a quick shake of the head, squeezing his leg. I didn't want Edward drinking that beer. I didn't want to drink that beer. I would make it disappear the next time I got up.
"So, Seth, what are you doing here?" Emmett asked.
"My roommates know some people here and mentioned the Halloween party. Things are pretty dull at where I go, so we decided to head on out to get our drink on," Set said with a smirk. He shot Edward another baleful glare.
"Where do you go to school, Seth?" Rosalie asked.
"I go to a small school about an hour west of here. Stewartson College. I got a full ride football scholarship. My family insisted that I go. I'll be the first person in my family to go to college and possibly graduate," he explained. "They're very proud."
"What's your major, Seth?" Edward asked, putting his arm around my waist.
"I'm a business major with a minor in photography. I'm hoping to start a photography business in my hometown. There's some beautiful scenery there," Seth said, eyeing Edward's hand around my body. "Have you talked to Jake recently, Bella?"
"He texted me when I started school. I haven't heard from since," I said tersely. "I'd be happy not to hear from him, as far as I'm concerned."
"Bella, you shouldn't be so hard on him. He loves you. He wants to be with you, in every way," Seth said passionately.
"The feeling is not mutual, Seth. He needs to understand that. I'm extraordinarily happy with Edward," I replied, lacing my fingers through Edward's hand. I turned my body and gave him a soft kiss on the lips, punctuating my statement.
Seth bristled at my actions. "Whatever, Bella. You really hurt Jacob. He's still hurting."
"He really hurt me, Seth. Do you know what he did to me? What he was GOING to do to me?" I nearly shrieked.
"Seth, man. I think you need to back down," Emmett said calmly. "You don't know what you're talking about."
"I do know what I'm talking about. You led him on, Bella. You wanted it," Seth seethed.
I felt my cheeks blush, not out of embarrassment but out of anger. I sat immediately straight up, tears gathering in my eyes. "I never wanted that. Not with Jacob. I wasn't ready."
"I bet you're ready now. I bet you fucked your scrawny little boyfriend the first opportunity you had. Jake was right. You are a slut," Seth spat.
Edward jumped off of the couch and got into Seth's face. Emmett was right behind him. Seth was a little smaller than Jacob. However, he had at least a few inches on Edward and a lot more muscle. "YOU LITTLE FUCKER! YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO TALK TO BELLA LIKE THAT. I HIGHLY SUGGEST THAT YOU LEAVE OR YOU WILL BE THROWN OUT," Edward roared.
Several students took notice of Edward and Emmett threatening the tall, Native American man. Seth puffed out his chest and took a step closer to Edward, sneering in his face. Seth clenched his fist, ready to strike but out of the woodwork, Seth's friends came up and grabbed his arms. Seth struggled against his friends, ready to rip Edward's head off. Edward and Emmett stared down Seth, feeling the same way.
"Bella, you were always too good for Jake. Such a stuck up little bitch. He's better off without you," Seth snarled. "Whore! Slut!"
Seth was finally pulled away and escorted out of the building. Rose had moved to sit next to me after Edward got into Seth's face. Her arms were around my shoulders. I was in shock of what had just happened. Seth, sweet Seth, had gone to the dark side. Jake had corrupted him.
Edward sat back down on the couch, pulling me into his lap. I settled into the crook of his neck and the events that just occurred hit me like a ton of bricks. I felt my tears build in my eyes. The next thing I knew, I was sobbing against Edward's muscular chest.
"How could he say those things like that?" I cried. "I never did anything to Seth."
"Oh, baby. He had no right to say those horrible things to you. You are one of the kindest, most gentle, most loving people I have ever known. You are a saint, Bella. Seth is a fucking tool. You have to know that are the most important person in my life. I love you. Only you," he said as he ran his hands down my cheeks.
"Bella, Seth obviously has his allegiance with Jacob. He's not worth your tears. He's not worth the time," Emmett said.
"Seth Clearwater is the scum of the earth. Jacob, whatever his last name is, is BELOW the scum of the earth. You are worth so much more than them. We love you, sweetie," Rose said as she ran her fingers through my hair.
I sniffled and gave them a small smile. "Thanks, guys. I'm sorry that it turned into drama-fest. Let's try to enjoy the rest of the party."
"Hells, yeah, Isabelly! That's my girl," Emmett boomed, pulling me from Edward's lap. The next thing I knew, I was being spun around in Emmett's arms.
"Let's get some more alcohol. Something more potent. The beer is not cutting it tonight," I said as Emmett put me on my feet. Emmett held up one finger and dashed off. Alice and Jasper came sauntering up, looking thoroughly satisfied. I raised my eyebrows at my pixie roommate. She had a sexy smirk on her face and her tights were gone. "Do we even want to know?"
"Nope. What happens in The Chapel stays in The Chapel," Jasper said as he wrapped his arms around Alice's waist, kissing her neck. "Edward, I just want to say, I love your sister."
Edward looked at Jasper and then flitted his eyes to Alice. She gave him a radiant smile and kissed Jasper on the cheek. "I love you, too Jas," Alice replied sweetly. She wiggled in his arms suggestively.
"Treat her right, Jasper. I will kick your ass if you hurt her," Edward said, a smile playing on his lips. He pulled me to him and pressed a kiss to my cheek, lightly nibbling to my ear.
Emmett returned from wherever he went with three cans of Red Bull, six cups and six shots of some brown liquid. "Jaeger Bombs, baby. These'll loosen everybody up!" He opened up the Red Bull and poured it into the cups, handing each of us one. He then handed us a shot of Jaeger. "Drop them into the Red Bull and chug. It tastes like Dr. Pepper."
We all dropped our shot into the glass and downed the sweet liquid.
Holy Crow! That's strong!
I felt my cheeks heat up as the alcohol went down my throat. I shook my head and grabbed Edward's hand. I pulled him onto the dance floor. I could definitely feel my inhibitions go away. I felt relaxed and happy. Edward pulled me into a tight hold and we moved on the dance floor.
The music was loud and lively. It had a really good beat to dance to. Rihanna's "Please Don't Stop the Music" came on and I turned my body away from Edward. I gave him a seductive look over my shoulder and pulled his arms around my waist. I swiveled my hips to the music, against his cock. I could feel it get harder against my ass. He moved his hips with mine. He pushed my hair over my shoulder and he nuzzled my neck, still moving his body with mine. He placed soft, open-mouthed kisses along the column of my neck down to my collarbones. One of his hands was splayed on my belly and his other hand held my hair out of the way. He abruptly turned me to face him. My legs were on either side of his strong thigh. He held me flush against his lean, muscular body, moving his body with the music. I raised my hands and gently tugged on his unruly hair, gazing up into his nearly black orbs. He licked his lips and his hand traveled down my torso, grazing the outside of my breasts. I heaved a breath at his much-needed touch.
He ducked his head and brushed his soft, pouty lips against mine. He gave me four sweet kisses before he deepened our kiss. His silky tongue sought entrance to my mouth. I readily gave it to him. It thrust into my mouth, dancing with mine. His hands moved down and gently cupped my ass, holding my hips to his erection. I pulled away from his kiss and gave him a smirk.
"Do you have any idea what you do to me, Bella? You will unman me with your words, your body and your mind," Edward breathed raggedly into my hair. "You can't go anywhere right now. You're blocking the party from seeing the vestiges party in my tights."
"I block the view to your cock, Edward. As long as you don't cock block me later tonight," I purred, grinding my body against his.
"Not helping beautiful. I'm trying to calm down and your little booty shakes are not doing the trick," he said with a strained voice. "Trust me when I say, there will be no cock-blockage tonight. You will be mine tonight. I intend to make you feel so good."
"I'm certain of it handsome. How's the party?" I said, looking down at Edward's crotch.
"Manageable, definitely not noticeable. I think I can move now," he said with a lopsided grin. We headed back to the couch. Alice and Jasper were heavily making out on the couch. Rose and Emmett were quite comfortable on their chair. Emmett got up and got some more Jaeger bombs. We all had another one, except for Edward. He wanted to make sure that he could drive our drunk asses home.
We all stayed at the party until the band played. We only stayed through a few songs. They were really not that good. Everybody said that we should have played and the party would have been a million times better. Not wanting to detract from the band on the stage, we all piled into Edward's car. He drove us back to Patterson. Jasper and Alice, still attached at the face, were heading to the bed and breakfast. Alice took out her keys and handed them Jasper and they got into the car and drove off. Emmett and Rosalie said that they were going to hang out in my room. Edward and I went upstairs to his.
It was well after eleven by the time we got to Edward's room. He unlocked the door and ushered me inside. He turned on a small lamp by the door. He went to his computer and got some music floating through the room. It had a slow, sensual feel to it. He turned and looked back at me. His eyes were black as pitch, burning with unadulterated desire. I'm certain I mirrored his look. He walked over to me and entwined our fingers. We walked over to his bed.
He bent down and gave me a sweet kiss, gently cupping my face with his strong hands. "I love you so much, Bella. You are my world, my reason for breathing. My reason for living," he said reverently.
"Edward, I love you so much, my heart is bursting with what I feel for you. You complete me. I feel empty, a shell, when I'm away from you. I feel like I'm home with you," I said fervently. "I can never imagine not being with you."
"Oh, Bella," he sighed into my mouth as he kissed me deeply. His hands fisted into my long hair. He gently pulled on my tresses, pulling my head to one side. He ran his nose along the curve my jaw and down my neck, pressing open-mouthed kisses as he went. I reached up and released the clasp of his maroon cape from his costume and it felt noiselessly on the floor. His hands traveled through my hair to the zipper of my dress. He slowly pulled the zipper down. I shrugged out of the dress and it pooled at my feet. I stood in front of my love wearing a cream, demi bra with a pair of matching cream boy shorts. I moved my hands to the buttons of his vest, undoing it and pushing it off his shoulders. He reached behind his head and took off his shirt.
"Lay down, beautiful. I have to address these horrendous shoes," he said with a smirk.
He bent down and removed his shoes. They were insanely complex. They were a pair of knee high black boots that laced up. He got them off and slipped off his pants as well.
Gah! Edward went commando!
My brows shot up to my hairline as I looked at him. "No underwear, Edward?"
"Alice would have had my head. She didn't want me to have VPL," he chuckled as he laid down on top of me. "She suggested briefs and I would rather eat a pound of glass before wearing tighty-whities. Do you like it, beautiful?" he asked as he wiggled his hips.
"Oh, yes, Edward. You have a beautiful body. You are perfect," I breathed as my hands snaked down his strong back, lightly scratching before ending on his firm, delicious ass.
"I'm not perfect, Bella. That would be you, beautiful. Your skin is so lovely. Your hair is thick and smells so good. I could get lost in your brown eyes. I could live off of your scent and your kisses. However, it's what's here that makes you perfect," he said as he laid his hand on my heart. "This is so beautiful. So selfless, kind, warm, loving, intelligent, talented and mine."
"I'll always be yours, Edward." I reached up and pulled his face to mine. I kissed him with all the love I could. I wanted him to know that he was mine, my soul mate. He rolled us and I was straddling his waist, never breaking our kiss. I lightly scratched my nails down his chest, through the sparse amount of chest hair that was sprinkled there. His hands moved to my ass and held me over his huge erection. I pulled my hands from his chest and leaned back. I reached behind my back and unclasped my bra. I slowly and sensually removed the straps from my body. I crossed my hands over my body, holding the cups of the bra against my body. I gradually removed the garment from my body, tossing it on the floor. Edward's hands traced over the curve my belly, circling my navel and moved up to my breasts. He lightly squeezed my mounds in his large hands. I covered his hands with mine, arching my back.
"So perfect, love."
"Only for you, Edward. Only you," I whispered. I leaned down and nibbled along the shell of his ear. He groaned and bucked underneath me. I continued my kissing and nibbling down his long neck. His hands had moved from my breasts and moved back to my ass. He moved my body up and down his rigid cock. He rolled us on to our sides, hitching my leg over his hip. His dick pressed into my fabric covered core. I continued moving my body, creating the friction that I so desperately wanted.
He removed my leg from his body and moved his hands to the edge of my panties. His fingers danced along the edge of the lacy fabric. I whimpered at his teasing. He smiled against my skin, pushing me on my back. He gently pulled down my panties. I lifted my hips and he eased them down my legs. He ghosted his fingers up my legs, tracing erotic patterns on my skin. "Your skin is so soft, Bella," he cooed. "I love touching you."
His fingers traveled further up my legs, moving on my inner thighs.
So close and yet so far.
He removed his hand from my legs and lightly scratched my sides, belly and arms. I whimpered. My hips were shifting on the bed, my thighs rubbing together. "Anxious, are we?" he smirked.
"Yes, Edward. I need to feel you," I begged.
His hand returned to the lower part of my abdomen. He gazed into my eyes as his fingers moved lower, closer to my wet, warm core. "Do you want me to touch you, Isabella?"
"Please, Edward," I said as I pulled his face closer to mine. He kissed my nose, my cheeks and forehead before giving me a deep kiss. As he kissed me, his fingers finally moved to the Promised Land. He gently swirled his fingertips over my clit. My hips bucked at his touch. I moaned into his mouth and tugged on his hair. He applied more pressure to nub. My body was responding involuntarily. He slipped a long finger into my core, curling his finger. His thumb continued playing with my clit. "Feels so good, Edward."
"I know what would feel even better, beautiful," he said as he smirked at me. He took his tongue and traced it along the column of my neck, down between my breasts, and circling my navel. He shifted his body so he was in between my legs. With a flick of the tongue, he licked my clit. "You taste so good, Bella. So sweet. So perfect." He added a second finger into my slick folds. He pulled my clit into his teeth and lightly nibbled. I arched off of the bed, my hand reaching for Edward's soft, silky hair. He pumped his hand, curling his fingers in my body as he continued feasting off of me. My breathing was becoming more and more ragged.
"Edward, don't stop. Please. It…Oh, God!" I breathed. My body was ready to combust. I could feel myself losing control, coming to the edge of the cliff. He added a third finger and bit down on my clit. I fell off the edge and screamed.
Edward kept kissing me as I returned back to earth. He languidly moved up my body, pressing kisses and nibbles as he went. He removed his fingers from my core and he pulled them into his mouth. I watched him as he sucked his fingers. I reached for his face and pulled to mine, plunging my tongue into his mouth. He pulled away, gazing into my eyes.
"I love you, Bella. I need to feel you," he rasped. He settled his body in between my legs. I could feel him pressed against my thigh.
"I love you so much, Edward. I need you inside me, please," I whimpered. He shifted his body and I could feel him at my entrance. He brushed my hair away from my face. He leaned and kissed me on the lips as he entered me. He felt so good. He was perfection. He filled me completely. Not just physically, but emotionally as well. He was my rock, my love, my partner, my equal.
Edward sat back on his haunches, and pulled me onto his thighs. "Shit, that's hot," he breathed. He watched as he entered my body. I snaked my hand down between my legs and began rolling my clit with my fingers. His eyes widened and his pace picked up. "You are mine, Bella. I love you so much."
"Only yours, Edward. You make me so happy. I love you," I breathed. I rocked my hips against Edward's legs. His brow was furrowed and I could see a sheen of sweat covering his body. He looked delicious. My breasts were bouncing at Edward's movements. My hand moved faster as I moved closer to my release. "Oh, God. Harder, Edward."
Edward grabbed my legs and he leaned forward, putting my calves on his shoulders. He slammed his body into mine. "I'm not going to last, beautiful. Come with me. Let go," he panted. His cock drove into me, going deeper than he had ever gone before. I could feel my muscles begin to clench around him. His mouth dropped open and his hips moved more erratically. "Oh, Bella…I'm…shit!" I felt his dick twitch in my body and he arched his body above mine. I came shortly after, my muscles clamping down around his cock.
He collapsed on top of me, breathing heavily. I moved my legs down off his shoulders, wrapping them around his body. I wanted to keep him inside me for as long as possible. He began to pull away and I clamped down on him, not wanting him to move. "I've got be squishing you, beautiful."
"No, you're fine, handsome. It feels good. I feel safe," I breathed into his hair. He held me tighter for a few short moments. He then pulled out of me. We both whimpered at the loss. Edward got up and went to his dresser. He pulled out a t-shirt and a pair of boxers. He put on the boxers and tossed me the t-shirt. He bent down and picked up my panties from the floor, handing them to me. I scrambled to put them on and pulled the t-shirt over my head. I shoved the covers down on Edward's bed and got underneath them. Edward followed suit, laying on his back. I cuddled up on his chest and traced circles on his smooth, pale skin. He gave me a kiss on my forehead and he ran his hand up and down my back.
"Are you okay, Bella? Really?" he asked in the darkness.
"I wasn't earlier. The whole thing with Seth upset me and pissed me off. However, I know that I have people who love me. Emmett, Rosalie, Alice, Jasper and most importantly, you. Seth is inconsequential in my life as is Jacob and the whole situation."
"I just hate seeing you so upset. His words were hurtful. I was ready to rip his miserable head off," Edward growled.
"Seth means nothing to me. His words hurt. This is true. However, your words mean more to me than his ever will. I know that I'm not what he called me. You know that, too. That's all that matters," I yawned.
"You are my world, Bella. I will do everything in my power to prevent you from being hurt. I love you more than my own life. You're the one," he whispered. I yawned, scooting closer to Edward's warm body. He chuckled before kissing my forehead. "You're tired. I'm tired. Let's enjoy this rare night alone in a dorm room. I love you, baby."
"I love you more, handsome."
"Highly unlikely. Sleep well, my beautiful Bella."
"Good night, Edward."
He held me tightly against his chest. My eyes drooped shut and sleep finally came to me. I was safe in my love's arms. I was happy and I was complete. Edward, in his loving, sweet, gentle way had done so. He was my home. Wherever he went, I was sure to follow.
A/N: I hope you like this chapter. Please leave a review. They make me happy. They are my own personal brand of heroine. I love reading 'em.
Pictures for this chapter are on my blog. The link for that is on my profile. Additionally, you can find me on Facebook: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. Teasers, pictures and links for my other stories are located there. I'm also on Twitter: tufano79. Finally, you can find pictures of the outfits I create for these guys on Polyvore. User name is tufano79 (do you see a pattern here?)
Thanks for reading!