Hmmm, I'm not sure what happened here but the speech marks are single instead of double. Hope it doesn't get in the way of your reading pleasure.
Edward traces his fingers delicately across my collar bone. 'I bought you something,' he murmurs. 'I'll go get it.'
I can hear the hum of the TV from the living room, and imagine Jacob sitting on the sofa in front of it – probably stretched all out so as to avoid creasing his suit.
Edward emerges from his room and presents me with a large, square box covered in crimson velvet. He lifts my hands and places it on my palms. I glance down at the word Cartier scribed in gold on the lid. I ignore the tiny burst of irrational jealousy that fizzes in my stomach. I try not to think about the other women who have been given an expensive gift from Edward on an occasion like this.
I quell that horrible feeling and plaster a smile on my face, but before I get the chance to open the lid, Jacob joins us. He tells me I look lovely before eyeing the box and asking what it is.
'Open it,' Edward urges gently.
I lift the lid and look down at the beautiful necklace and bracelet held within. The bracelet is fashioned from three rings of differing colours of gold, while the necklace consists of a delicate chain holding a similar circular trio of gold.
Edward lifts out the necklace and thumbs the three bands. ''I bought it because it's a trinity,' he says looking slightly embarrassed, as if he's suddenly unsure of himself. 'It made me think of the three of us, like it represents us as a unit.' His eyes catch mine briefly before his gaze returns to the necklace.
His words touch me and I look at it anew. It is made of white gold, yellow gold and diamond encrusted gold. 'It's beautiful,' I say.
Jacob peers at it... 'What one represents me? I call the gold, it's better than silver.' he says.
I smile at him. 'That's not silver it's white gold.' He frowns at it dubiously. 'White gold is gold just the same... so I call that,' I continue, grinning at him and enjoying his little game.
Jacob looks at Edward. 'Looks like you're the sparkly one!' he says with a cheeky grin.
Edward chuckles. 'I have a gift for you too.'
Jacob's eyes light up. 'Really?'
Edward pulls a small leather wallet out of his pocket and hands it to Jacob. 'This is for you,' he says, smiling broadly. 'They have lots of stalls and games at the ball. I thought you might need something to keep your own money in.'
Jacob turns it over in his hands several times feeling the leather. Edward smiles curiously at Jacob when he lifts it to his nose and smells it before opening it. 'It's empty,' he says, but not with complaint.
Edward glances at me before addressing Jacob. 'I wanted to make sure it was okay with your mom to give you some money.'
'You don't have to ask permission,' I tell him.
I just wasn't sure how you'd feel about me giving him his own money to carry around.' He looks down at Jacob. 'I meant to mention it before giving him the wallet,' he adds as an afterthought.
'As long as we're not talking about a hundred bucks, I don't mind at all,' I insist.
Edward smiles and opens his own wallet
'Hey! Is that me?' Jacob asks, staring at Edward's wallet in surprise.
I look down to see the picture of Jacob that I gave to Edward in the diner. It feels like a lifetime ago since that day rather than mere months.
'You keep a picture of me in your wallet?' Jacob's voice is reverent and filled with pride as he touches the photo.
Edward looks a little taken aback by how much this clearly means to Jacob. 'Sure,' he says. 'I had it sitting in the bookcase when your mom first gave it to me, but since I don't spend a lot of time here during the week I put it in my wallet. Now, when I'm at work, I can look at you any time I want.'
Jacob looks up at him. 'Do you miss me when I'm not here?'
A lump forms in my throat when Edward nods and says, 'Very much.'
Their eyes stay locked for a beat before Edward looks down at the photo. 'Maybe we'll get a family one taken tonight and I can put a picture of all three of us in here,' he muses.
'That's a great idea,' Jacob agrees enthusiastically. 'We all look great tonight. We should totally do that.'
Edward laughs lightly, hands Jacob a twenty dollar bill, and then turns to me. 'Turn around,' he instructs. 'I'll put the necklace on you'
Jacob stuffs the bill in his wallet informing me that he's going to get a drink. He thanks Edward and walks to the kitchen inspecting his gift.
Edward is holding the necklace out waiting for me to turn my back to him.
'Do you like it?' he asks, draping the necklace gently around my neck. 'You don't have to wear it if you don't.'
I capture the circles between my thumb and forefinger and think about his reason for buying it. It shames me a little that I thought he was merely giving me a trinket like he has in the past. 'I love it.'
He fastens the clasp with a light snap, and I shiver appreciatively when he presses his warm lips to the base of my neck. Arousal zings down my spine and I bite my lip against the soft sigh that escapes me. His hand curves around my waist, squeezing gently while his lips blaze a trail to my ear. 'You look gorgeous,' he murmurs thickly.
Turning I take in the sight of him. His skin looks smooth and flawless and his lips are plump and moist. His heavy lidded eyes roam all over my body as he drinks in every detail.
My own eyes follow a similar path down his body. His dark grey suit is cut to fit him perfectly, and makes me want to run my hands all over every beautiful inch of him. It thrills me that I can and I can't resist the urge to brush my fingers over his thighs while he kisses me softly.
The freshly showered scent of him fills my nostrils, making me wish we didn't have to go anywhere tonight.
Two sounds from opposing ends of the hallway jolt us out of our intimate moment. The door buzzer blares at one end, while a worringly anguished cry from Jacob has my head snapping towards the kitchen.
Ignoring the door, Edward and I both race to the kitchen to find Jacob standing beside the fridge. He is grasping a juice box too tightly and orange juice is still seeping from the straw. My eyes arrow straight to the wet streak of orange staining his lovely white shirt.
He looks up at me, his eyes wide with horror. 'I'm sorry,' he wails.
'Take it off!' I order. 'Quickly, before it drips on your trousers,' I add, stalking towards him. I tell Edward to get the door, and when I turn back to Jacob he is almost strangling himself with his tie. 'The knot!' I bark, pulling his fingers out of the way. Grabbing the knot I start to loosen it gently. 'You always loosen a tie at the top.'
Fat tears brim in his eyes. 'I've ruined everything!'
'Calm down,' I say, more gently than I addressed him previously. 'It's not the end of the world. I can fix this, we'll just be a little late that's all.'
While I'm tugging the tie off and undoing the buttons of Jacob's shirt Edward rejoins us. 'The car has arrived,' he says. 'I told him to wait.'
'Do you have any detergent?' I ask over my shoulder. 'I'll have to wash the stain out.'
Edward rubs his hand through his hair. 'Um... I use a laundry service. I don't have anything like that.'
I strip off Jacob's shirt and head to the sink to run the wet patch under the tap. I squeeze a little washing up detergent on it and rinse out the stain. Jacob is full on crying now and Edward pulls him into his arms, kissing the top of his head.
'Don't worry,' he croons. 'It's really not that big a deal.' He glances over to me. 'Your mom's fixing it.'
I had a feeling something might set Jacob off. He's been as high as a kite all day, so it was a foregone conclusion that any tiny thing would be blown up into an unmitigated disaster in his mind. I'm just relieved it happened now and not at the ball.
I ring the water out of the shirt and then frown at its rumpled state. 'I'm guessing if you don't have detergent you won't have an iron either?'
'Shit!' Edward curses before grimacing down at Jacob. 'Sorry!'
I roll my eyes rushing to the bookcase, where I pull out the two largest books I can find before heading to my room to retrieve my hair dryer. Spreading the shirt out one book, I start to dry it while smoothing it with the other. Twenty minutes later Jacob is standing in the kitchen with the shirt back on and it only looks slightly rumpled.
'Once you have your jacket on nobody will notice.' I assure him, knotting his tie again. 'There all done! You look great.'
He still looks a little miserable as he shrugs into his jacket. 'But we're late now,' he complains.
I rub my thumb across his cheek. 'Stop worrying,' I instruct gently. 'It was an accident. It's sorted now. Okay?'
He shrugs and nods but doesn't look okay at all.
Thankfully, when we get downstairs his mood improves instantly when he sets eyes on the limo waiting for us. 'Is that for us?' he asks, wide eyed and suddenly grinning from ear to ear. When Edward nods, he races towards it and looks up at the young man standing by the door. Jacob thanks him when he opens it and dives inside.
Edward takes my hand to help me inside, and I slide onto the leather seat to allow him to climb in behind me. Jacob is moving around so fast in his attempts to take everything in, he's practically ricocheting off the sides.
His glee is infectious, and I can't help but laugh when he starts wondering aloud which would be the best seat to sit on. Eventually he decides to sit on the left and asks if we can turn the TV on. Edward informs Jacob that it only plays DVDs and there aren't any in the car. Jacob frowns a little but then starts eyeing up the contents of the bar.
'After the orange juice incident, don't even think about it,' I warn him, trying hard to keep the chuckle out of my voice.
Edward settles into the seat beside me, lifting my hand onto his lap. 'Did I tell you how beautiful you look?' he says, smiling.
'You might have mentioned it,' I say, feeling the heat of my self-conscious blush warm my cheeks.
His cell phone shrieks, causing us both to start. He grimaces in apology before answering it.
'Cullen!' he barks in that awful tone he uses for work. His brows furrow as he listens to whoever is on the other end. 'We're running a little late,' he states, but his words appear to be cut off by the other person talking again. I watch as a muscle starts to work in his jaw. 'What mistake?'
I glance at Jacob who is listening to Edward's every word, and decide to distract him. 'Good job we brought the umbrellas,' I remark lightly, pointing at the driving rain sweeping against the windows.
Jacob turns his attention to the wet streets outside, while Edward leans forward in his seat, irritation radiating from him.
'Jane, it wasn't a mistake. I arranged to sit at a different table... I know I sit there every year, but this year I arranged to sit elsewhere... what do you mean you fixed it?... why didn't you call and ask me.' He brushes his fingers through his hair and huffs out a sharp breath. 'Jane, just because I didn't inform you that I'd made alternative arrangements doesn't give you the right to assume that a mistake had been made. I'm not happy about this... sort it... of course you can...' Another sharp sigh. 'Alright, forget it! I'll deal with it when I get there.'
He stabs the disconnect button and jams the cell back in his pocket.
'Problem?' I ask, unnecessarily.
Jacob glances at us and I wish that there was something on the TV to distract him.
Edward looks back at me over his shoulder. 'I arranged for us to sit at a table with some colleagues and their kids,' he glances at Jacob who is now making a show of looking out of the window. Edward lowers his voice. 'I normally sit with my family, and my assistant Jane assumed there had been a mix up with the table – I put her and her brother at my family's table – anyway, she moved to our table and arranged for them to add an extra place setting at my family's table for the three of us.'
'Can't she just change it back again?' I ask.
'They're already seated now,' he says. 'When we get there, I'll see what I can do.'
I touch his arm. 'No. We're late now. The last thing I want to do is cause a big scene when we arrive. Besides, Jacob will want to sit with Emmett and Rosalie.'
He covers my hand with his. 'I don't care about causing a scene. It's more important to me that you feel comfortable.'
'I'll be fine.' I lower my voice to a whisper. 'I'm quite prepared for Carlisle, he won't get to me tonight. I don't care what he thinks of me anymore. I only care about you.'
We pull up outside the venue, and I tell Jacob to wait while Edward gets out first. The wind is so strong that the rain is almost falling horizontally. Edward struggles with the large umbrella while Jacob and I hurry out. Thankfully we are close to the door and our clothes aren't too badly sprayed with rain.
Just as we get to the open doors there's a couple of flashes of light, and I catch sight of a photographer snapping us from a few feet away.
'There's usually a lot of photographer's,' Edward explains when we pass. 'We seem to have struck it lucky and missed them.'
'I doubt there'd be many on a night like this,' I remark as he ushers me through the door.
In the foyer, I brush the drops of rain from Jacob's shoulders while Edward sweeps his hand down the side of my dress. We are greeted by a tall thin man who has dark piercing eyes and a sharply pointed nose. He glances at the three of us before addressing Edward.
'Good to see you, Mr Cullen,' he greets holding his hand out for the umbrella. 'You are just in time, they are about to serve the food.'
'Thank you Russell,' Edward says, placing his hand on the small of my back.
The man doesn't wait for introductions. He walks ahead of us and presses the button for the elevator.
The doors open immediately and we step inside. I check my hair in the mirror and am relieved to see that it's still perfectly in place despite our dash from the limo to the front door. Edward threads his fingers through mine and brings my hand to his lips.
'Are you ready?'
Jacob watches Edward kiss my knuckles and rolls his eyes. 'Can't you save that stuff for when you're alone,' he grouses, but I catch the twinkle in his eye that tells me he's secretly pleased.
When the doors slide open Edward keeps a tight grip on my hand as he leads us up a long corridor to a set of double doors at the end. Just as Edward lets go of my hand to open the doors, Jacob slips his into my other one. I smile down at him.
The doors open to reveal a large foyer that has several large doorways similar to the one we are standing in. I can hear voices and light music carrying through from the left. Edward gestures towards that door.
'That's where the main reception is,' he informs us. 'And the other doors lead off into the events rooms.'
'Events?' Jacob and I both ask at the same time.
'There's various games and competitions that we take part in to raise extra funds on the night. There's also a party room for the kids. I can show you them later, but for now I think we should get into the main hall before they start serving the food.'
My nerves start to kick in a little when he pulls the doors marked 'Banquet Hall' open and places his hand on my back as we step inside. Jacob's fingers tighten as a few people from the nearest tables turn to look at us with undisguised curiosity. Edward's hand slides around my waist and he pulls me a little closer, tucking me into his side as he guides us through the maze of tables.
I don't look at anything other than the space in front of me. The hum of voices is slightly louder than the music playing in the background, and children's voices ring louder than the adults. I flash of white catches me eye and I look over to see Emmett raising his arm in greeting as we approach the table. He has his jacket off already and is sitting with his arm around Rosalie who is smiling approvingly at me.
There are three empty seats beside them, and then Jasper, Alice, Esme and Carlisle complete the arc around the table. I'm relieved to see that the table is large and we will be sitting at the opposite side from Carlisle. Unfortunately, the floral centre piece is not large enough to completely obscure him from view.
'Sorry we're late,' Edward says to no one in particular, and even though he sounds cordial enough I notice the slight strain in his voice.
To my utter embarrassment they all stand to greet us. Jasper clasps Edward's hand in greeting before Edward leans forward and kisses Alice's cheek. It's all very formal... and horribly awkward. Jacob lets go of my hand and moves straight to Emmett and Rosalie. Jasper is already approaching me and I smile as he presses his lips to my cheek.
'Hello Bella,' he says smoothly.
Before I can respond he releases me and I find myself gazing into Alice's eager face. 'You look lovely Bella.' Her voice is small, which bothers me.
I can't stop the trajectory of my eyes as I take in her attire. Only Alice could make yellow look elegant in a setting such as this. The off the shoulder chiffon dress she is wearing, drapes her slender physique perfectly. It cinches at the waist, flowing over her narrow hips fluidly. Around her neck, a solitaire diamond dangles from a delicate gold chain, and other than her wedding ring it is the only accessory she has. She is most likely the envy of every little-black-dress-wearing woman in the room.
It reminds me of the quirkiness I loved about her in the past. Nostalgia evokes a strong emotion in me – If I can start to forget the hurt Edward and I caused each other, then surely it is easier to bury the mistakes Alice and I made too.
I have no words of greeting. I can't vocalise this, instead, when she offers me her hand I slide my hand across her shoulder and press my cheek to hers. She sighs. I pull back and look into her eyes. My smile is for the girls we lost and for the women that I hope we can find. She returns it tenfold.
As we part, I notice the way Esme is gripping Edward. Her fingers are almost claw-like on his back as he hugs her. She is whispering to him and feeling like an intruder I look away, only to find myself staring into the ice blue abyss of Carlisle's gaze.
'Bella,' he greets with saccharine sweetness. Edward's back stiffens perceptibly. 'You are a vision in red,' Carlisle continues.
Steeling my resolve, I smile so sweetly I can almost feel the cavities forming. 'Thank you Carlisle,' I respond making sure I don't move one inch closer.
I turn to Esme who has now released Edward. 'It's nice to see you again, Esme,' I say, taking in her midnight blue gown. Internally I thank Rosalie for not letting me buy the one I wanted which was the exact same shade. 'You look beautiful.'
Esme cups my elbow as she kisses my cheek. 'I'm so proud to have you all here,' she says, throwing me off balance. As she pulls back her eyes are shining and I realise she really means it. Her eyes drift to Jacob and Edward before returning to me... and the pride does not leave them.
I've seen that look in Renee's eyes before, and all at once I feel bad for this woman who loves Edward so very much but has always had that love tempered by her husband's disdain for it. Jacob is about to sit down but I hold my hand out and gesture for him to come forward to say hello to Esme.
He stops at my side smiling up at Esme.
Her eyes shimmer as her eyes roam the full length of him. 'You look amazing,' she says to him beaming.
Jacob can't stop smiling as he steps tentatively forward. Esme opens her arms and I wonder if it is only I who can hear the strangled sigh that escapes her as she welcomes him into her embrace. Jacob pulls back first, only slightly embarrassed by the emotional display. He turns to face Carlisle and I watch proudly as he shakes his hand perfunctorily.
Sometimes, Jacob doesn't read social situations well, so he tends to follow the lead of those involved. He mirrors the reactions of others. In Esme's case his hug was genuine because he felt genuine warmth from her, but in Carlisle's case it was a cold calculating handshake... and nothing pleases me more.
When I return to Edward's side, he pulls out the chair next to Rosalie and gestures for me to sit down. Rosalie winks at me as I do. Jacob sits in the seat next to me and Emmett leans over and bumps fists with him.
'Look at you,' Emmett says to Jacob grinning broadly. 'You look all grown up. I told you that suit was perfect for you.'
Jacob beams at him proudly, but his hand flutters subconsciously to the spot on his shirt that was stained.
As Edward takes his seat at the other side of Jacob, I can't keep my eyes from wandering around the table. Everyone is seated again, and despite the slight tension that still hangs in the air, I smile as if I don't have a care in the world.
Edward drapes his arm across the back of Jacob's chair and brushes my arm with his fingers. I look over at him and smile. He smiles back, only removing his arm when the waiters and waitresses appear ready to serve.
Jacob frowns at the bowl of soup that has been placed in front of him. 'Don't we get a choice?' he asks me.
I lean close and whisper to him. 'Don't complain Jacob. Just eat it.'
He glances up at me, concern evident in his eyes. I know instantly where his concern lies.
'Sit forward a little, that way if you spill it, it will drip into the bowl and not onto your suit,' I advise, placing his napkin on his lap.
He smiles sheepishly and picks up a spoon. I touch his hand gently and wordlessly direct him to the correct one. I nod discreetly when he lifts it.
'Your hair looks lovely,' Rosalie remarks jovially as soon as the plates have all been served. A burst of conversation sparks up around the table. She nudges me a little. 'Relax,' she whispers.
For the first time since we arrived, I do.
During the meal, Edward is extraordinarily attentive towards Jacob and me. He leans forward, hovering a bottle of wine over my glass.
I place my hand over the rim. 'I'll stick to soft drinks tonight,' I say. He raises his eyebrows in question. I glance down at Jacob. 'I don't drink when I'm out with Jacob.'
He places the bottle down and raises the jug of orange juice instead. 'After dinner I'll get some soft drinks from the bar for us.'
'You don't have to–'
'I'd like to keep a clear head for tomorrow,' he explains while pouring the juice.
After the meal – which Jacob somehow manages to get through without spilling on himself – Edward leaves the table to give a talk. Apparently he and Emmett take turns on who speaks at these events. This year is Edward's turn.
I watch him as he strides confidently to the podium and unbuttons his jacket before leaning into the mike. I listen intently as he talks about the various charities that will benefit from tonight's fundraiser. My stomach flutters with something akin to pride. I've never seen him command a room like this and if I'm being honest, it's quite the turn on.
When he's finished he makes his way back to the table, but his progress is hampered by countless people stopping him so they can shake his hand. I notice a few women making a bee line for him. He simply smiles at them graciously when they lean towards him, discretely leaning away in tandem with their movements. His eyes keep darting to mine, until finally he reaches the table.
'Dance with me,' he says, holding out his hand.
I hadn't even noticed that the band had started to play. 'I'm a bad dancer,' I refuse, shaking my head.
Ignoring my refusal, his hand envelopes mine and he pulls me to my feet. 'Then you'll just have to hold on tight.' He smirks.
I glance down at Jacob to see him sliding into my seat beside Rosalie.
Edward leads me to the dance floor and places one hand around my waist, while keeping a grip on my hand with his other. 'I've never danced with you,' he murmurs, leaning down so I can hear him over the music. He lifts his head and smiles down at me. 'You don't know how much it means to me to have you and Jacob here with me tonight.'
As we sway to the music, he leans in close again. I become aware that we seem to be dancing more intimately than most of the other couples. His hand is splayed across the base of my spine and his thighs brush mine as he moves. His head dips again and his breath is warm as it drifts down my neck when he speaks. 'I know I said it already, but you're stunning Bella.' His lips brush my cheek briefly.
'It's amazing what a bit of make-up and a professional hairdresser can do,' I joke, trying hard to temper the arousal his little touches ignite in me.
He chuckles. 'Even if you were standing here in your jeans and a t-shirt, you'd still be the most beautiful woman in the room.'
This time I laugh. 'Now, that's just cheesy,' I accuse.
His eyes are burning with desire when I pull back to look into his face.
'Maybe so,' he admits. 'But I mean every word.'
His fingers flex and suddenly my throat is too dry and I can't swallow. His hand traces a languid circle on the exposed skin on my back, as we move to music I can no longer hear. Every sense is filled with Edward. The masculine line of his jaw, the delicious scent of him that is only slightly masked by his cologne, the feel of his body so close to mine, the velvet timbre of his voice in my ears and the taste of his kiss that is still rampant in my memory.
As if a bubble has formed around us, he is all I am aware of. We've never had this pleasure before and it feels good to be in his arms, and not caring if anyone is watching us. His eyes never leave mine, and I feel my insides melt from the sheer heat in his gaze. His thumb brushes my knuckles and his other hand is hot on my back.
I feel his thighs brush against mine again and briefly wonder if we are inappropriately close. I can't stand to tear my eyes away from his face to check. I love the small smile that is playing on his lips. I suspect it mirrors my own. I never knew just being with him could feel so good or so right. This is all I ever wanted; to be free to love him and for him to be free to love me.
Words are unnecessary. I can see everything I want to tell him reflected in his eyes. He is feeling the exact same emotions that I am and I've never felt closer to him.
The spell is broken in the brief pause between songs. Suddenly, I'm aware of the people around us again as they start to leave the dance floor. A new song strikes up, and Edward raises an eyebrow at me as if asking if I want to dance again.
'We should get back to Jacob,' I decline with a rueful smile. 'He'll be dying to go see what's happening in the other rooms.'
I slip my hand into his, before we turn back to the tables. We don't even make it off the dance floor before Tanya materialises out of nowhere.
'Edward, it's so nice to see you again,' she coos sarcastically, her eyes swinging to me. 'And you brought your little girlfriend.'
Edward doesn't break stride and barely glances at her as he makes to move past her. 'Grow up Tanya.'
She steps in front of us, clearly intent on causing a scene. Edward slides his hand around my waist as Tanya glares at me.
'You're back,' she observes redundantly, before glancing at our table. 'And not alone it would seem.' Her eyes darken as she turns to Edward. 'I can't believe you let Irina find out about your dirty little secret second hand.'
I marvel at how calm and unruffled Edward's demeanor remains. 'I'd thank you not to refer to my son in that manner,' he says. 'This is none of you, or your family's concern.'
'After everything, you don't think that she deserved the common courtesy to hear it from you that your sordid little affair resulted in a child?'
Edward grips me tighter and I'm unsure whether he is trying to reassure me or making sure I don't bolt for the door. He shakes his head in disbelief. 'Irina and I have been divorced for nine years. This is all water under the bridge. I'd thank you to keep your nose out of our business. If this was some sick little ploy of yours to cause drama – it failed.' He turns and takes a step away, taking me with him. 'Enjoy your evening.' He says over his shoulder.
I look back to see Tanya looking affronted, before she stalks away in the opposite direction.
'Bitch,' Edward mutters as he steers me back to the table. 'Are you okay?'
'I'm fine,' I insist. 'I expected to run into her tonight. I'm just glad she didn't approach us at the table in front of Jacob.'
He squeezes my hand. 'I wouldn't let her get within ten feet of the table,' he assures.
'Will there be any other Denali's here?' I ask, glancing around the room. 'I remember her father was a big deal... well according to Carlisle.'
'No,' he says shaking his head. 'The Denali's have always avoided these functions – for obvious reasons.' He glances in the direction Tanya left. 'I can't say their presence was ever missed.'
'Is there a problem?' Emmett asks coming to stand beside us.
Edward sighs heavily. 'No. Just Tanya making a nuisance of herself.'
Emmett pats my shoulder. 'Don't let her bullshit get to you.'
I smile at him but don't get the opportunity to say anything because Jacob appears at Edward's side.
'Can we go see the games now?'
'Of course we can,' Edward says, fixing a hundred watt smile to his face. He takes Jacob's hand and then turns to me. 'You coming?'
I smile and walk beside him. It's difficult not to feel self conscious when I can see heads turning at every table we pass. Edward takes hold of my hand and gives it a tight squeeze.
As we're passing a table an elderly gentleman turns and looks up at us. 'Edward!' he greets loudly. 'Another fine evening.' Jacob scoots to my side as the man rises stiffly to his feet. He claps his hand on Edward's shoulder and shakes his hand vigorously. His eyes are bright and his cheeks rosy with alcohol. 'Damn fine speech, young man,' he adds before he looks at Jacob and me.
Edward's smile is genuine and surprisingly affectionate. 'Hal! I would have come to find you,' he says. 'But it looks like you found me. It's so good to see you.' He leans in. 'And you're generosity is always appreciated.'
Hal waves his hand in the air dismissively. 'You know that's not why I come. I get a goddamned kick out of seeing all these pretty young ladies,' he jokes winking at me.
Edward chuckles, turning towards me and cups my elbow. 'Hal, I'd like you to meet...' his eyes catch mine. He pauses briefly, as if making a snap decision. 'My family. This is Bella and this...' he slides his hand around Jacob's shoulder and pulls him forward gently. '... is our son, Jacob.'
There's a moment where Hal looks at Edward as if he's spoken in a foreign language. His smile falters while he looks at Edward quizzically. Edward simply keeps his gaze steady until eventually Hal's smile widens and he holds a shaky liver-spotted hand out to me.
'It's a pleasure to meet you my dear,' he says warmly, raising my hands to his lips. 'I don't think I've seen anyone quite so beautiful since my late wife passed away. Your name definitely suits you.' His milky blue eyes flicker at the mention of his wife and then just as quickly he snaps out of it and turns his attention to Jacob. 'And you... you're a fine looking young man,' he says patting his back. 'Just like your father.'
'Thank you,' Jacob says, blushing furiously.
Hal turns back to Edward. Something in his expression tells me that he has a soft spot for Edward. He looks almost proud as he reiterates how good it is to see him. They have a brief back and forth where Hal complains it's been too long since Edward visited and Edward offers up weak apologies, but soon we're on our way again.
'Who was that?' I ask quietly as Edward holds the door open for Jacob and me.
Edward sighs and looks down at Jacob whose eyes are already trained on the delights that lie ahead. 'Hal is a very wealthy, very lonely old man. When his wife Miriam was diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease he started to throw money at the research for a cure. One of our subsidiary companies was set up to research cures for fatal debilitating ,there's still no cure for CJD – and despite losing his wife five years ago – Hal still throws money at it.'
'He seems to know you on a personal level,' I observe.
Edward smiles. 'He's a remarkable man. I've had a lot of dealings with him over the years.' He sobers. 'He has such devotion to his wife that he's desperate to find a cure so that nobody else will go through what she went through.' His eyes glitter as he looks down at me. 'I can't help but be in awe of a man like that.'
Tears sting the back of my eyes as I watch the shadow of regret cast on his face. I am hit with the urge to hug him and tell him everything will be alright, but we are standing in a crowded foyer with our son tugging on his sleeve desperate to get to the fun part of the evening.
My mood lifts when we enter the games room. It has been partitioned into two separate areas; one looks like a casino while the other is full of stalls reminiscent of a carnival. With a huge grin on his face Jacob pulls his wallet out, and pays to have a go at shooting tin cans off a wall. It's all electronics and lasers of course, but Jacob still remarks on how old fashioned it is. I suspect his disdain is brought on by the fact that he can't manage to shoot one single can off the wall.
Jacob quickly runs out of money and Edward supplies him with more. The room is busy and buzzing with laughter and conversation. At first it is difficult to relax and enjoy it because there seems to be a constant stream of people approaching us to greet Edward. I'm introduced to countless people whose names and faces pass in a blur. Edward takes great pride in introducing Jacob and I as his family and I feel a little bit like we are on display.
Eventually, we are left alone and Edward starts to relax as we let Jacob lead us around the room as he endeavours to have a go at everything.
'This is the first time I've ever enjoyed one of these events,' Edward confides, his lips brushing my ear as he stands behind me while we watch Jacob play air hockey with another boy. 'I've never bothered with this room before.'
I turn and look up at him.
'It was only ever business to me. It was always Emmett who insisted that we should allow children to attend.' A trace of guilt flickers on his face. 'At first I was dead against it. But Emmett pointed out that kids were very good at getting money from their parents, which they would in turn spend on the stalls – thus raising more money.'
I smile knowingly. 'And if whole families are here, the parents will tend to enjoy themselves more and be more receptive to indulgence.'
'Exactly,' he says with a grin.
Jacob returns to us flushed with excitement and asks if he can play some more games with his new friend. Edward gives him yet more money and laughs as I shake my head.
'Let me indulge him,' he pleads jokingly.
I laugh and tell him I'm going to the ladies and since he seems so content to watch Jacob, I arrange to meet them back in the main hall when Jacob is done.
The restrooms are probably the most luxurious I've ever been in. All marble and shiny gold fittings. It takes some manoeuvring not to pee on my dress but I somehow manage not to. There's no stainless steel soap dispenser but instead a porcelain dishes holding little pearls of soap. I take one and wash my hands, before drying them on the cotton hand towel and depositing it in the small hamper which already has several used towels in it. I indulge myself with the fragrant hand cream before making my way back to the main hall.
Only Alice and Jasper are still seated at the table. As I approach, I watch how Jasper's fingers play with Alice's hair while she talks animatedly to him. He smiles when she does and nods at the same time too. They are completely engrossed in each other and I wonder if that is how Edward and I looked on the dance floor. An unexpected bubble of happiness surprises me.
My steps slow as I get nearer and I'm hit with the memory of how eager Alice was when we first met. She was as lost as I was though I didn't know it then. Alice was probably the exact opposite of me; spoiled and indulged by her overbearing family... but she was lost just the same. She needed a friend just like I did and though we were so very different; it was that which bonded us.
She was always outwardly happy and she was a great person to be around, but there were times when I could see that she was a little lonely too and wanted nothing more than to have a best friend. Seeing the way she is with Jasper tonight, I can see that she's found that friend – and I'm happy for her.
"Jacob's having great fun," I say as I sit down.
They both turn to me and smile.
I smile back. I look at Alice. Jasper stands and excuses himself, pressing his lips to Alice's cheek.
We stare at each other long after Jasper leaves. I look at this woman who was once my closest friend and I can't think where to begin... or even what it is that is burning inside of me to get out.
She moves into the seat Jasper vacated and I feel her knee touch mine. Suddenly emotional I try to force a smile.
"I know you and Edward weren't supposed to be sitting with us tonight," she says suddenly. 'But I'm glad you are.'
I nod. "Me too."
Her eyes are glassy. "I saw you dancing... you and Edward. You looked... great together." She bites her lip and her eyes shimmer. "At any other time I would have been so happy to know that my best friend fell in love with my brother, I–"
I place my hand palm up on her knee. She looks down and blinks a few times before tentatively putting her hand in mine. I close my fingers around hers. "I know I let you down." I look up into her eyes. "It was never about you Alice. You were my friend, I promise you that was separate. I didn't use you to get to Edward. I couldn't tell you how I felt about him, but that didn't mean that I didn't believe in my friendship with you. It wasn't easy for me to keep it from you, but I hope you can understand why I did. Sometimes I hated coming to the house because I hated seeing Edward and Irina together. I still wanted to be your friend, so I made myself do it. I did feel guilty Alice, but I loved him so much that it overrode everything else."
Her eyes look as misty as mine feel. She squeezes my hand and I continue. "I just fell in love with him and nothing else mattered. I know I was selfish, but he was everything to me. I'm sorry that I hurt you."
"I'm sorry too," she whispers.
I sigh and start to raise my hand. It's not till she stops me that I realise I was going to run my fingers through my hair.
"You'll ruin your hair," she says with a small smile.
Her fingers are warm on my wrist. "We're different people now," she says quietly. "Maybe we can work on having a different kind of friendship?"
I nod. "I'd like to try."
'Let's go play some black jack or something!'
Both of us turn startled at the sound of Rosalie's voice. She slaps her hands on our shoulders. 'Maybe us Cullen women can clean up!' There is an unmistakable glimmer of approval in her eyes as she grins down at us.
'Um... Rosalie, you're the only one here called Cullen,' Alice points out.
'Pedantry!' Rosalie scoffs, grabbing both our hands. I catch the affectionate look she throws our way. 'Lets go lose some money to charity!'
The next hour is spent in a state that I would liken to a dream. This is not my life. I don't spend time with extended family. I don't usually take pleasure in being only on the periphery of Jacob's unencumbered joy. From my vantage point over the roulette table, I can't help but smile and lose my focus on the game in front of me, when I see him high fiving Edward just before Emmett launches him up on his shoulders and twirls him around.
Seeing my boy so utterly happy in the presence of his father and uncle moves me... in more ways than one. I make the conscious decision to focus on the delight I feel at seeing him so happy, but when he I see that they are playing a fishing game, my thoughts turn to Charlie. I wish he could see us now.
I turn to Rosalie and Alice with a fake smile. 'I need to go to the bathroom.'
I push my way through the crowd. Edward's eyes meet mine, he takes a step forward, one eyebrow quirked. He's been tracking me and that is a great comfort, but my pain is mine so I nod and smile, gesturing that I'm okay. He steps back but watches me all the way to the exit.
In a cubicle I press toilet tissue to my eyes. I take a few calming breaths and finally manage to quell my grief. I can imagine Charlie shaking his head and telling me not to be silly... to enjoy the moment instead of missing him. But I do miss him, and knowing that it will never go away hurts so much. My back sags against the cold wall as I fight against my tears.
Finally, satisfied that the moment has passed, I exit the cubicle, place my purse on the shelf beneath the mirror and look at myself. My eyes are all smudged and I've managed to smear my lipstick too. I wet the edge of a towel and dab at the mascara smudges beneath my eyes.
I'm reapplying lipstick when the door swings open and Tanya walks in. Our eyes meet in the mirror and she stares at me.
Great! Just what I need.
I turn to face her. 'Can I help you?' I ask, snapping the lid on my lipstick and dropping it into my bag.
She leans against a stall appraising me with clear contempt. 'You finally got your man,' she sneers. 'Took you long enough.'
'Go to hell!' I spit, brushing past her.
She laughs. 'He's a lying, cheating bastard, and he'll do to you what he did to my sister. And it couldn't happen to a nicer person.'
I stare her down. 'If it makes you feel better to think that, carry on. I really don't care what you think of Edward... or me.'
'Of course you don't,' she retorts. 'You just wrecked my sister's marriage and took off without a thought, while she was left here dealing with the mess you made. You're too fucking selfish to care about anything.'
I hear voices approaching and step forward.
'I have no doubt that your sister suffered, and if I ever run into her... that will be different. But I don't owe you anything, so I'm not going to stand here and listen to your bullshit. Now get out of my way.'
The doors open and two women enter eyeing us curiously. I breeze past Tanya and let out a long sigh as soon as the door closes behind me.
Making my way back to the games room I see Edward standing outside the door. As soon as he spots me he comes walking towards me, his brow furrowed in concern.
'Are you okay?' he asks, when he reaches me. 'You look a bit... rattled.'
I tell him I was thinking about Charlie. I see no point in worrying him by mentioning the altercation with Tanya. He slides his arm around my shoulder and presses his lips to my head. If the hallway was a little less crowded I'd be tempted to wrap my arms around him and bury my face in his chest, but as it is. I simply accept the soft kiss he plants on my forehead.
I feel him stiffen and look up to find him glaring at the restrooms. 'Did she say anything to you?'
Without turning I know he's seen Tanya. 'We exchanged words,' I admit, already tired of this. 'But honestly Edward, it's no big deal. She was having a go at me on behalf of her sister. It's probably no more than I deserve,' I look up at him. 'But I didn't let her know that.'
'Why can't she just get over herself?' Edward snaps.
'Wouldn't you do it? Say, if Jasper had an affair and you were confronted with the other woman. Wouldn't you have some choice words for her, no matter how much time had passed?'
He presses his lips together in a tight line. 'I hate this. It shouldn't fucking matter anymore.'
I place my hand on his chest and he looks down into my eyes. 'It'll be yesterdays news soon enough. It's only happening because this is the first time we've been seen together... and Tanya apart, nobody really cares.'
He stoops and briefly brushes his lips over mine.
'I wish we could go home now,' I murmur, wanting more.
He looks down at me regretfully. 'I'm supposed to say something at the end... but I can get Emmett to do it. Just give me a little while to sort it out and then we'll go, okay?'
I nod. 'I'll go get Jacob,' I say.
'Emmett and Rosalie are in the kid's party with him,' he says and his lips curve up into a smile. 'He's made a few friends and he's really enjoying it. I think Emmett and Rosalie are enjoying it as much as he is.'
My heart warms. 'They'll make great parents,' I muse. 'You know she has this... schedule... where she's got everything all planned out? She says they have another two years before they even think about kids.'
Edward laughs. 'She'll be pregnant within a couple of months,' he says. 'Or I'll eat my hat.'
I take his hand and we start walking. 'Don't bother rearranging things, we should stay and let Jacob enjoy this. He's been looking forward to it for so long.'
'If you're sure?'
I insist that I am while we make our way to the kid's party. The room is full of squealing kids running around while loud music plays and coloured lights flash to the beat. We eventually make out Emmett and Rosalie leaning against the far wall wearing wide smiles as they watch Jacob dance... very badly.
'You were gone a while,' Rosalie remarks, leaning in so I can hear her.
'Yeah.' I nod still watching Jacob. 'I just needed a few minutes to myself.
'Everything okay?' she asks, pushing away from the wall.
I smile at Jacob who waves. 'Yes, everything's fine.'
After a while we all head back into the main hall. Edward introduces Jacob and I to some more of his colleagues and I'm relieved that there's no further sign of Tanya. When we get back to the table, Jacob repeatedly asks to go back to the kid's party.
Rosalie and Emmett leave the table to dance and Edward leaves check the schedule for his talk.
'I'll go with you,' Alice offers, smiling at Jacob.
'You don't have to do that,' I tell her. 'It's really loud in there. We're just giving our ears a little break from it.'
'I know I don't have to,' she says. 'I'd just like to take spend a little time with my nephew.'
Jacob looks up at me a little nervously, but I can see that he's still eager to get back to the party.
'You're aunt Alice is a lot of fun, but if you want me to take you I will.'
He looks at Alice who is smiling eagerly.
'Why don't we let your mom wait here so she can dance with your dad again?' Alice says standing up. 'You and I can go have some fun.'
Alice clearly wants the chance to spend time with him. I squeeze Jacob's knee. 'I don't mind coming too, but I'm sure you'll be fine.'
He rolls his eyes. 'I know I'll be fine, Mom.'
I watch them as they leave. Jacob looks up shyly as Alice talks to him while they walk. He looks keen to get back the party and I'm glad that I decided to stay. Still smiling I turn back to the table to find Carlisle sitting in the seat beside me.
'Jesus, it's like running the gauntlet tonight,' I mutter, taking a sip of my juice calmly. I turn to him not wanting to put up with any more of his bullshit. 'Don't waste your time.' My words are clipped and dismissive.
He ignores me as his eyes sweep over the room. 'This must seem like a different world to you,' he says in his annoyingly patronising tone. 'I don't suppose you're used to such opulence.'
'It's a fancy party, Carlisle, let's not get carried away.' I say without looking at him.
'Yes, but I doubt that someone who rents a tiny apartment above a restaurant and juggles two jobs is used to attending events like this.'
Instantly my spine stiffens and I can't help but turn to face him. I am hit with the urge to slap the smug grin off his face. It takes great effort not to show any outward sign of my ire. 'It's touching that you've taken such an interest in my life Carlisle, but you really needn't have bothered. There aren't any skeletons in my closet that would interest you.'
He chuckles. 'You misunderstand Bella, I didn't check up on you,' he says with a grin that chills me to the bone. 'Edward did.'
'You're lying,' I accuse.
'Ask him,' he challenges. 'We can all see just by looking at Jacob that he's Edward's son, so that was never his issue.'
'There's no reason for him to check up on me then.' I counter. 'He knows Jacob is his. End of story.'
I glance at his fingers dancing on the table. It's clear he's enjoying this. 'He wanted to make sure there was no other man in his son's life. Lucky for you there wasn't... otherwise you wouldn't be sitting here at our table – you'd be sitting in a courtroom fighting for your child.'
'Don't you ever get tired of this?'I ask curling my lip in disdain. 'You're always chipping away at me... but for what? What's to be gained, Carlisle? Are you really that pathetic that you get a kick out of trying to hurt people? I'm not interested in your lies, go peddle them somewhere else.'
He tilts his head to the side. 'Okay, I guess I can see where this looks flimsy to you. But ask yourself this... how come Edward was so jealous of you and Mike Newton? If he thought for a moment you had someone else back in Florida, he would have called you on it. He wouldn't have wasted his time getting jealous of Newton.'
My heart drops like a stone in my chest. His words make some kind of sick sense, but how could he know that Edward was jealous of Mike.
'I know Edward better than you think I do,' he points out, making me realise that my inner question is written all over my face. 'I saw how much it affected him seeing you with Mike at your father's funeral. Mike was a very real threat to his plans for Jacob. He's not a stupid man, Bella. He knows the best way to have a real relationship with his son is through you.'
Remembering Edward's professions of love and the plans he is making for our future, I square my shoulders and look Carlisle in the eye. 'Nice try,' I say, even though inside I am raging that Edward has clearly kept this from me.
As much as I hate to admit it, I know his reasoning is sound. Edward was jealous of Mike. He never fully questioned me about my life in Florida. He asked me once if I had a partner and accepted it so readily when I said I didn't... as if he already knew. Which I now realise that he did.
I turn fully to face Carlisle. 'I don't understand how that screwed up mind of yours works. But I do know that you are a horrible bitter man, and I don't want you anywhere near my son. Don't come near us again.'
I stand up deciding that I've had more than enough for one night. I see Edward holding court with a group of people in the far corner. His eyes catch mine and I turn away, not wanting him to see that I'm angry, Even though it angers me that he checked up on me, I can understand why he did it, but what angers me more is that he shared his findings with Carlisle and never told me.
'What's up with you?'
I turn to see Rosalie approaching me.
'Nothing,' I respond defensively.
'You look like you want to rip someone's head off,' she says. 'Talk to me.'
'Did you know that Edward paid someone to check up on me and told Carlisle about it?'
'What?' she asks.
'I shouldn't let that bastard get to me,' I say glaring at the table where Carlisle is still watching us. I turn away and focus on Rosalie. 'I know he's telling the truth, it makes sense. I just hate that Carlisle knew about this and Edward didn't tell me himself.'
Rosalie steps forward. 'Don't let that fucker get to you. What's he saying now?'
I shake my head. 'You don't get it Rosalie. It's not Carlisle that's getting to me it's Edward. Why didn't he just tell me? We've been here before. He always claimed he was being completely honest with me and he never was.' My voice catches. 'He kept things from me before, and I can't... I just can't go through that again.'
Rosalie grips my arms. 'Bella, think about it. Edward is doing everything he can to be with you and Jacob, if he checked up on you it was probably when you first came back.' She grips a little tighter. ''You need to talk to him... tonight. It's clear that this isn't really about what Carlisle said. This is about how he hurt you before, isn't it?'
'Tonight started so well but it's just there all the fucking time. There's always going to be something.' I rage before sighing harshly and shaking my head. 'I'm going to go get Jacob. I just want to get out of here. I'll talk to him tomorrow.' I remember that I haven't asked her yet if she'll take Jacob tomorrow. She agrees as soon as I ask.
Afterwards, I head towards the door relieved that Rosalie hasn't followed me. I turn to see her heading towards Edward and quicken my pace.
Before I reach the door I feel a hand brush my wrist. I look down to see Riley sitting at a table. 'Bella,' he greets standing up. 'You look lovely,' he smiles appreciatively.
'Um... thanks Riley... this isn't really a good time,' I explain trying to step backwards.
'Did you get home okay last weekend?' he enquires, ignoring my attempt to leave.
'Yes, I did,' I say and then I realise I'm being rude. 'Look, I'm really sorry about that. I was drunk, I don't normally behave like that and I hope I didn't embarrass you.' I sigh and frown at him. 'I realise I embarrassed myself.'
Riley chuckles. 'Don't be silly, you didn't embarrass yourself. Actually, you were very funny.'
I groan inwardly. 'That's sweet of you, but I really do have to get going.'
'Oh... okay. Maybe next time I see you in Mac's you can buy me that drink, you owe me.'
I know he's just trying to lighten the mood but it makes me cringe anyway. I mumble an apology and finally manage to get away, only to find Edward standing a few feet away.
'You were with him last week?' he says through his teeth when I reach him. His voice is low.
'I wasn't with him.' My words escape on a harsh breath. 'He was there and I was there. Separately.'
As soon as we're through the door he curls his hand around my elbow and leads me down the hallway to a quiet spot. 'You never thought to mention it?' He glares at me.
'No, I never thought to mention it,' I say, pulling my arm out of his grasp. 'Because there was nothing to mention. We spoke for five minutes, he bought us a drink and that was it. Don't start pulling this jealousy shit on me again.' I poke my finger into his chest. 'And while we're on the subject of not mentioning things maybe you'd like to tell me why you never mentioned that you checked up on my fucking life and told that asshole Carlisle everything about me!'
'There you are!'
Edward and I both turn at the sound of Rosalie's slightly manic greeting, to find her hurrying down the hallway towards us closely followed by Alice and Jacob. Jacob is chattering to Alice and doesn't appear to have noticed that we were arguing.
Rosalie's eyes widen in warning as they dart from Edward to me. And I relax my stance and force a neutral expression. 'Edward, I think you're needed in the banquet hall, to give the last talk,' Rosalie says with a fake smile.
Edward stays still on the spot until Jacob speaks. 'Can I come with you?'
Edward holds his hand out without a word and Jacob glances at me as he takes it. 'Are you coming Mom?'
'I'll be along in a moment,' I say as Edward starts walking away with him. Alice looks hesitantly at Rosalie and me before deciding to follow Edward and Jacob. I'm grateful that she doesn't linger.
'Jesus Bella, I thought you were going to wait till tomorrow!' Rosalie exclaims as soon as they are out of earshot.
'I wasn't going to,' I argue. 'But he heard Riley mention Mac's last week and he's... fuck! I just saw red!'
'So did he by the looks of it,' Rosalie points out. 'Listen, I think Jacob should come home with Emmett and me tonight.' My eyes snap to hers but she continues before I have the chance to object. 'Do you really want to take him home and let him see you two fight?'
'We won't fight!'
'Bella, I don't think you can avoid it. Jacob will be fine with us. We'll tell him it's a surprise, you can bring clothes over first thing in the morning.'
Half an hour later, Edward and I are standing on the rain-soaked side walk waving a happy Jacob off as he leaves with Emmett and Rosalie.
Another limo pulls up to the curb and Edward opens the door gesturing for me to get inside. I climb in and grit my teeth when he slams the door after sliding in beside me.
Thank you for reading
Kat
