Hi Everyone!
First, I have to thank you all so much for all those wonderful reviews. I am always so happy to hear from you! I have really enjoyed sharing my story with you all. If everything goes that way I am thinking, I believe there is only one more chapter left and the epilogue.
Song of the day is Love Is by Vanessa Williams and Brian McKnight, copy and paste it into your browser…it is perfect! Don't forget to take out the spaces. http :// www . you tube .com / watch?v=Pz9gpxsgaj0
So here's hoping that the next two chapters knock your socks off! :)
Enjoy!
Disclaimer: SM owns Twilight. I own all the football knowledge.
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Love breaks the chains.
Love aches for every one of us.
Love takes the tears and the pain…and it turns it in…to the beauty that remains…
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"They're making me talk…I have until Sunday to say something or else they're going to go after my job." The strain in Mack's voice could easily be heard through the line.
"He's pulling out all the stops, I know, I've already talked to Goodell. He told me he spoke to Isabella earlier today. I can't believe what she is planning to do. We need to make this public before she does. The media is having field day with it already."
"I knew this was going to happen. I saw the playoff game Charlie. Cullen's in love with her and he's fucking pissed at me. I'm going to lose my job over this."
"Don't worry Mack; you won't lose your job, I have plans to discuss this with Dodds. I'll take the full responsibility."
"Charlie, do you remember our last game together with the Longhorns?"
"Yeah, why?"
"Remember what we said back in the locker room with Larry?"
"With Larry? No. What?"
"Doesn't matter where we go, or how bad it might get, we'll always stick together. I got your back Charlie."
Charlie felt a strange tightening in his throat.
"And I got yours." Was all he could get out.
Renee watched Charlie carefully, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. She hoped with all her heart he was going to do the right thing.
Charlie turned to look at her then, overwhelmed with that familiar feeling he used to get back in his college days, the feeling to capture this beautiful woman in front of him, to make her his. He turned his head slightly, trying to get himself under control.
"Renee, Mack will be flying in tonight to meet me here since I can't leave this fuc…err…damn hospital."
Renee smiled slightly at his words, her eyes soft. "I heard... I'm proud of you Charlie."
Charlie felt his breath escape him. That was all she needed to say, that she was proud of him, and his heart began hammering in his chest.
"Renee…I…" he was almost stuttering, he took a deep breath before he started talking again, "I know you don't care for Mack, but…" he looked into those deep black eyes starting to feel lost, "but can you stay? I'd like for you to hear what we're going to discuss."
Renee felt her heart jump at his words. She wanted to stay, with her whole heart she wanted to stay…but she knew she couldn't make it easy for him. He had a lot of issues that he needed to deal with and people he needed to make amends with. These things he needed to do on his own.
"I'm sorry Charlie," she leaned closer to him, "but my plane leaves in four hours. I won't be able to be here."
"You're leaving?" Charlie didn't like hearing those words. He knew she wouldn't stay forever but it still took him by surprise that she was leaving already.
He couldn't suppress the panic that was consuming him at the thought of doing everything he needed to do, without her…of continuing to live his life…without her.
"Stay…" he could hear the begging in his voice and he didn't care, "please…stay. We could talk some more. And I could call Bella; I know she would love to see you."
He was using any reason he could get his hands on to keep her with him, and he knew it.
Renee's eyes went wide.
"Bella…" she breathed, her voice trembled, "Bella wouldn't want to see me. I can only imagine what she thinks of me."
"Please," Charlie begged some more, "just a few more days. I know Bella would want to see you. You don't have to stay at a hotel; you can stay at my place. It's not far from here…" his voice trailed off. It was useless, he could see it on her face, she wasn't going to stay. He was going to lose her…again.
But then he saw something flicker in those gorgeous eyes, and she smiled at him. Her smile lit up her face and his too.
"Okay." She said, and Charlie couldn't believe what he was hearing, "But just for a few more days…and then I have to leave."
Charlie nodded. Inside he was thinking she didn't have to do anything, she could stay with him forever. But that was a battle he would fight later, right now, she had agreed to stay, here, with him. And that meant more to him than he could ever imagine. It sent his heart soaring. He couldn't remember the last time he had felt like this.
"Alright Mr. Swan," the bubbly nurse who was assigned to him walked into the room, her footsteps tapping lightly against the tile, "it's time for you take your walk. You need to build up your strength…doctor's orders. Come on, I only have ten minutes to walk with you unless you'd like your…uh…" the nurse glanced over at Renee, unsure exactly what to call her, she had seen her here for the last few days but still wasn't sure what she was to Mr. Swan.
"Wife." Charlie could hear his voice strong and clear, he was staring right into Renee's eyes, "this is my wife, Mrs. Renee Swan…and if she doesn't mind…I'd like her to walk with me."
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BPOV
Walking into Roger Goodell's office was one of the most nerve-wracking things I have ever done.
I had flown into New York this morning for my meeting with the NFL Commissioner and was literally exhausted, both physically and emotionally.
The kiss Edward and I had exchanged during the playoff game was playing repeatedly on every television station discussing the Super Bowl. I knew it was only going to add further tension to the shaky ground I was standing on.
The Warriors had two weeks to prepare for the Super Bowl, and as of right now I didn't even know if I would be out on that field come Super Bowl Sunday.
Edward had wanted to come with me and I was dead set against it. He had pushed and argued with me all day yesterday, but I wouldn't budge. First, he was extremely busy with all the Super Bowl activities that were going on, and second, he needed to be out on the field for practice with the team.
Besides, I knew he only wanted to be there to take care of me and defend my actions, or worse, try to take to the complete blame all by himself, and there was no way I was going to let that happen. This was my doing…my responsibility. My dad had done enough harm to Edward already, I was not about to add to it.
I had arrived ten minutes early expecting to wait until our scheduled appointment, but to my surprise, the Commissioner's secretary ushered me right into his office, almost as if he couldn't wait to start ripping into me, I guess.
The room was small, I always imagined that someone as powerful as Roger Goodell would have this enormous office, but it was just the opposite. A small wooden desk was angled in the corner. Two leather chairs sat opposite it. A pretty gold framed mirror hung on the far wall with a tiny buffet table underneath it. The two windows overlooked the city were framed with simple ivory blinds.
I glanced around me trying not to look so nervous. Apparently Goodell was not a flashy guy at all.
"Miss Swan, thank you for meeting with me, please come in and have a seat." Goodell's voice was sincere and professional. I guess it was supposed to put me at ease but I was too wound up to relax.
"Thank you Mr. Goodell." I sat carefully on one of the leather chairs and placed my hands in my lap waiting for him to begin.
"Miss Swan," Goodell cleared his throat and looked directly at me, "Are you aware of why I called this meeting with you?"
I took a second to clear my head, I was a professional…I could do this.
"I believe, Mr. Goodell, that this meeting was called because of my relationship with Edward Cullen. Both in my past and my present." I stared right back at him not wavering.
He raised his eyebrows at me, I guess he was expecting me to hem and haw about it, but I was through with that, Edward belonged to me and I was not going to deny it to anyone.
"Miss. Swan, your relationship with Mr. Cullen has put us in a bit of a dilemma. You see, since you are the first female coach the NFL has ever had, there are no guidelines for me to follow regarding your behavior."
"I don't see how my behavior, as you call it, has anything to do with my coaching abilities." I kept my voice firm and my eyes steady.
"You realize I have to make sure the NFL lives up to its name. I oversee all of the league's business units, including media properties, marketing and sales, stadium development and strategic planning. We cannot not address the issues before us. The media would make a mockery of us, of our players, of our sponsors, and of our name. I have already scheduled a press conference for tomorrow morning in regards to your situation; I am just giving you the courtesy of knowing the outcome beforehand."
I lost some of my poise then, Goodell had already made his decision, this meeting was not intended for me to defend or explain myself, this meeting was simply for him to tell me what my punishment was going to be.
Feeling somewhat defeated I remained silent. What else could I say really? I was just about to nod and give in, when the door to his office suddenly flew open.
Both Goodell and I jumped in our seats, turning our heads in the direction of the door. There stood Seth Clearwater in all his glory, Goodell's secretary right on his heels.
"I'm sorry Mr. Goodell, I tried to stop him. Mr. Clearwater insists he is Miss. Swan's attorney and he should be present for this meeting." She apologized.
Goodell looked stunned for a second, and then held up his hand. "That's quite alright Ms. Bell, thank you."
I sat frozen in my seat. Seth Clearwater was not my lawyer. Seth Clearwater was Edward's lawyer. I realized at that moment what was about to transpire.
"I apologize for my late arrival," Seth unbuttoned his coat and made his way to the empty seat next to mine. "My plane was delayed."
He held out his hand to Goodell and shook it heartily; he turned to look at me before sitting down, "Miss. Swan." He smiled warmly at me and gave me a small wink.
I nearly choked.
"Mr. Clearwater." I managed to get out.
"Now…" Seth began in this intimidating businesslike voice sitting straight up in his chair and pushing back his glasses. "What brings us all here today?"
"We were just about to discuss the repercussions of Miss Swan's and Mr. Cullen's relationship that I will be announcing tomorrow at my press conference."
"Repercussions. Really? And what might those be?"
"Well…" Goodell suddenly seemed really ill at ease, "As the NFL commissioner it is my responsibility to make sure Miss. Swan realizes why she will be fined one hundred thousand dollars and suspended for the next 4 games for violating the NFL's personal and ethical conduct policy. Miss. Swan must recognize that the NFL does not allow much room for such behavior off the field. As a coach she was to conduct herself to the highest standards of honesty, professionalism, and sportsmanship. By hiding her past and current relationship with Mr. Cullen, publically denying it, and then flaunting it all over the media, is detrimental to the best interests of her team and to our league."
I nearly gasped at the words coming out of Goodell's mouth. Suspended for 4 games…I would miss the Super Bowl, it was the only game I cared about.
Seth sat rigidly in his seat, listening intently to every word; his face was devoid of any expression. A true poker face. He could probably get rich playing cards. Finally after a few silent seconds he leaned forward in his chair and placed one hand on Goodell's desk.
"It seems that this meeting is a bit premature don't you think Mr. Goodell?" he nodded his head almost mockingly as if he was expecting Goodell to start nodding with him.
Goodell was really taken aback by Seth's straightforwardness; he sort of sucked in his breath at Seth's words, not answering right away.
"I believe the NFL should address these types of issues right away."
"Is that so?" Seth leaned back into his chair, "The same way the NFL addressed…let's say…New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick? Or Minnesota's former coach Mike Tice?"
Goodell clasped his hands together tightly and frowned.
"Those were separate issues that were dealt with soundly."
"You are right, they were. Both separate issues…and dealt with soundly. Neither which held a 4 day suspension; in fact if I remember correctly, there was no suspension…at all." Seth narrowed his eyes at Goodell.
"Bill Belichick was fined far more than one hundred thousand dollars." Goodell was not going to back down so easily.
"He was fined five hundred thousand dollars for spying and obtaining the signals of his opposing teams. His own team, the Patriots, would have had to forfeit their first round draft pick only if they had made the playoffs, which they didn't, so they lost nothing. And that was for an infraction far worse that Miss. Swan's."
Goodell said nothing but I could tell he was fuming. I glanced over at Seth; he was far more relaxed now and looked as if he were thoroughly enjoying himself. Where did Edward find this guy? Seth gave a contented sigh and continued.
"Minnesota head coach Mike Tice was investigated by the NFL for heading up and profiting from a Super Bowl ticket-scalping operation within the Vikings organization in 2005. Mr. Tice sold his super bowl tickets for a profit which he pocketed. A $100,000 fine was levied against him, nothing else, no suspension."
"Mike Tice was fired." Goodell frowned.
"Agreed. But not for the ticket scalping, he was fired in 2006 because of a disappointing 9-7 season with the Vikings, they were a trendy preseason pick to go to the Super Bowl, but they missed the playoffs."
I could tell that no matter what Goodell had to say, Seth would have more to counter it.
"So Mr. Goodell, would you like to rethink your chastisement? Or perhaps Miss. Swan and I should hold our own press conference after yours?"
Goodell looked stumped, his face a mixture of anger and shock.
"I still have to hold the press conference." He shook his head.
"I'm sure you do," Seth tapped his fingers on his briefcase, "But it's what you are going to say that we're interested in."
Goodell sighed, he rubbed his hand across his forehead, "Fine, no suspension. But you realize that the NFL can't employ them both if they are going to be involved in a relationship. We cannot have our coaches involved with the players, it's just not professional. It has to be one or the other; I've already begun the process of revising the policies regarding both the coaches and the players for the upcoming season."
"We'll talk about that when it happens." Seth didn't even blink.
Even though I knew Goodell was backed into a corner now, he wouldn't be stuck there forever; he was always going to be after me. Or Edward. I couldn't let that happen.
"You don't have to worry about that." I rose from my seat, "Neither of you." I turned to Goodell, "I will pay my fine, and coach the Super Bowl game. After that I am resigning from my position, effective immediately."
Both men froze. I looked right into Goodell's eyes, "The NFL will leave Edward Cullen alone. Will not pursue this any further, because I am sure his lawyer, Mr. Clearwater here, would be more than happy to continue meeting with you."
Goodell's eyes traveled from mine to Seth's rapidly, he thought perhaps we were playing him. I placed my hand on his desk.
"I'll have my resignation sent to your office, and to Matt Ferrell's office, by tomorrow evening."
Seth didn't say a word; he rose with me and followed me out of Goodell's office, down to the lobby. When we exited the elevators he paused and turned to me.
"You don't have to resign." His eyes held a worried look, his brows furrowed.
I smiled at him, "Yes, I do."
"Mr. Cullen's not going to like this." He shook his head.
"You leave Mr. Cullen to me." I tilted my head to the side and winked at him.
He seemed surprised at the complacency on my face.
"You realize you've just gave up your job Miss. Swan?" Seth was beyond perplexed now.
I shrugged, "It's just a job," I glanced down at my watch, I was suddenly eager to catch my plane and head back to San Diego, back to Edward, "But what I've won…is far more important to me…and that Mr. Clearwater, is what I am going to tell Mr. Cullen. As for the NFL…well…they can just…fuck off."
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EPOV
Athletes are known to be superstitious creatures. I am not exempt from that category, but right now I am breaking one of the most deadly superstitions ever for an NFL player. My teammates would kill me if they saw what I was looking at…and Black…he would definitely kick my ass if he found out I was talking to Jostens, but you see, I had found out he was the one involved in the design this year, in the event of a win, so I had to at least try to catch a peek, see what I could discover. If all went well then I could live out this fantasy that had played in my head over and over again since I was eighteen.
The Jostens' representative was nearly jumping up and down in front of me and I had to swear him to secrecy, promise him tickets to the Super Bowl, an autographed jersey, and get this…call his girlfriend on her cell phone and say "Hi." Tsk tsk…who knew I would stoop so low.
But I did it all anyways. And I walked out of there happier than I had been in, what felt like fucking forever.
I checked my phone, it was only noon, Bella would still be in her meeting with the Commissioner. I tried to argue with her yesterday, telling her I wanted to go with her, but she was too smart to let me. She could see right through me, and knew if the Commissioner threatened her I would either beat the shit out of him or try to take complete blame for our situation.
So I sent the next best thing…I sent Seth Clearwater after her, which let me breathe easier. Seth had already talked to Mack Brown, and I say talked but really mean threatened his ass. Brown had to either spill or get sued and lose his job. Looks like he is going the spill route. Smart man.
I watched the hustle and bustle around me as the tourists wandered the sidewalks taking in the sights.
Super Bowl week tends to bring over-hype, over-analysis; over-scrutiny and generally over-everything, the Warriors didn't have to travel far for it. The attention of sports fans from around the world were completely focused on, at least this year, Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego. There was a mind boggling, dizzying variety of events going on throughout the city leading up to the big game, and I was in the middle of it all.
This was my last free evening, the rest of the week the entire team was booked for events, appearances, and of course practice, so I wanted to spend it with Bella, just the two of us.
The Warriors were staying at Se San Diego Hotel which was ridiculously indulgent, but perfect for a romantic evening in. There were four players to a room but Bella had a suite all to herself, which was where I was spending most of my time.
Picking up a bouquet of flowers from a street vendor outside, I headed back to our hotel to wait for Bella's arrival.
At a quarter after eight she finally arrived flushed, tired, and beautiful.
I was sitting in one of the leather reading chairs going over my playbook; she walked in, tossed her bag onto the table and headed to me. Before I could stand up and greet her, her arms were around me, holding me close, she didn't say a word.
I hugged her back tightly not sure if this meant things didn't go well with the Commissioner. Seth hadn't called me. I was suddenly apprehensive.
"Are you okay?" I held her against me, letting my hands rest on her waist.
She nodded and then pulled back from me; her hand ran down the back of my head and rested on my shoulder.
"I am perfect." She smiled.
"How did it go?" I stared up at her.
"Fine. Thanks for sending Seth over, he helped a lot."
"You're not mad?"
"No," she shook her head. "There's nothing to be mad about."
I pulled her down onto my lap, "So what did Goodell want? What did he say?"
She kept her gaze over my head and took in a deep breath, "He wanted to tell me that he was fining me one hundred thousand dollars and suspending me for four games," she began, and I could feel my blood begin to boil, "For dating you in my youth, for dating you now, and for keeping it a secret. He said we both can't work for the NFL."
I frowned at her, fuck, hadn't Seth done his job?
Bella seemed to instantly read my mind and she smiled at me again, "Seth was like an open fuse ready to explode, he totally put Goodell in his place. I am not going to be suspended after all."
I let out a breath of relief, okay, a fine, I could deal with that.
"We still can't both work for the NFL, so…" she was looking right into my eyes, begging me to stay calm, to listen, "I quit. I told him I would coach the Super Bowl game and then I am resigning."
I started shaking my head no; this wasn't how it was supposed to be, but Bella took my face in both her hands and lowered her forehead to mine. She didn't break our gaze.
"You see…a certain guy promised me the world one night, he told me he comes with it, a package deal, and I've decided…that's what I want…I want the world…and him…if he's still willing to let me have it."
I stared up into her eyes mesmerized by her words, my heart thumping rapidly in my chest. She was giving up everything…for me. The woman sitting before me with these beautiful gleaming eyes and soft tumbling hair was mine, and at that moment nothing else mattered but showing her how much I loved her.
I didn't say anything to her, letting my actions tell her what I was thinking. I stood, lifting her up in my arms. I closed my hands around her, she lowered her head and pressed her soft lips to mine, I could taste the sweetness of her mouth, feel the silkiness of her hair around me. Without breaking our kiss; I made my way to her bedroom. She clung to me, her hands holding on to the back of my head, her legs wrapped around my waist.
The craving I had for her overwhelmed me, and I wanted us to be able to escape the mountain of pain that had surrounded us most of our lives. We had come so far, and endured so much, I wanted her to forget that her heart had ever been broken, and I wanted her to know that I treasured her, that my life was worth nothing without her.
I set her down on her feet when we reached the bed, she looked up at me, her eyes telling me she was ready, we were both ready.
I let my hands run up and down her arms as I brought my mouth down for another kiss. Trying to show her that this was how it should have been those last six years, and that this is what is was going to be like for the rest of our lives, if she let me.
The last time I had touched her intimately was the night at my penthouse, it had been urgent and fierce with so many mixed emotions, tonight…I wanted only one emotion…love.
My hands pulled gently on her sweater dress, sliding it up over her head in one swift motion. She stood before me in nothing but a black lacy bra, black panties, and knee high, black heeled boots. Her hair fell in wild waves around her face, her eyes shining with desire, she looked incredible.
She brought her hands up around my neck and pulled me closer to her. I let her take control, let her do whatever she wanted, and I lost myself…in the feeling of giving in to her, as wave after wave of intense longing washed over me.
My hands fell to my sides and she began unbuttoning my shirt, pushing it off my shoulders until it fell in a small pile next to her dress.
I wanted to yank the rest of my clothes off, to help her, but I kept reminding myself to let her stay in control, let her lead. And she did, her fingertips burning hot trails on my skin as they drifted across my chest, down my arms and back, lingering at the waist band of my jeans for only a second before she had them off of me.
Her gaze traveled over my body, her eyes were hooded and full of passion. She looked up at me and I stared back into her eyes, I brought my hand up to her face, caressing her cheek, tracing the bottom of her perfect plump pink lip with my thumb, stroking gently back and forth. Her mouth opened and tip of her tongue reached out, at first tentatively, but then she boldly drew my thumb into her mouth with a soft sucking sound, keeping her eyes on me, it made me harder than I've ever felt in my life.
She let go of my thumb and with those wide suggestive eyes, moved closer to me. I could feel her mouth skimming across my chest, her hands softly stroking down my arms. She circled me slowly; trailing kisses along her way, letting her nails scrape against my skin slightly.
She stood behind me; I could feel the palms of her hands on my back as she kissed me right between my shoulder blades, traveling downward. Her mouth felt so delicate and supple, she hummed against me faintly, sending goose bumps along my skin. My mind and heart were bursting with the need to show her how I was feeling, and she nearly brought me to my knees when I realized that she had unhooked her bra, letting it fall to the floor, the skin of her bare breasts brushed against my backside as she slid her hands down my shoulder blades to the waistband of my boxers, lowering them to my ankles, letting me step out of them.
When I heard the sound of her unzipping her boots, I turned around. I couldn't help it anymore, I needed to see her, touch her.
She was standing in nothing but those black lacy panties, looking up at me. I reached for her, pulling her close to me, letting us both savior the feeling the of our bare skin coming in contact with one another.
I let my hands wander, taking my time, trying to memorize the way her skin felt beneath my hands. Her breath hitched slightly, and she closed her eyes, as I ran my hands down over her breasts, holding them, feeling their weight in my palms, marveling at how perfectly they fit in my hands, how responsive they were to my touch.
My thumbs ran across her nipples lightly and she gasped at my caress, her mouth opening slightly. Just watching her react, and feeling her body respond, intensified the longing and desire within me; I struggled with myself, willing my hands to be steady, trying not to go so fast. I pulled my hands away from her breasts and ran them down her sides, down over her hips, as I sank to my knees before her.
Her hands found their way into my head, her fingers tangling themselves in my hair. She pulled my head against her skin; I trailed kisses all around her belly button, over to her hips, and down to her thighs. My fingers grasped the elastic of her panties and I lowered them slowly, helping her out of them, one foot at a time.
I ran my hands up and down her legs, eager to feel and taste every inch of her skin. My mouth descended down toward her knees and up the inside of her thighs. My hands grasped her hips, gently pushing her into sitting position on the bed. I took her ankle and lifted it up, placing her foot on my shoulder. My kisses rained up into her thigh until my mouth was leveled right at her entrance.
Her chest was heaving in small pants and when I finally pressed my lips to her opening letting my tongue flick over her clit ever so lightly, she let out this breathy "Oh!" that sent a pang right to my dick and I drove my tongue into her again and again until she was literally lifting her body up off the bed, her hands holding tightly to my hair, keeping my head locked in place.
Her reactions fueled me, drove me, I wanted to make her climax with my mouth and hands. I let one hand slide up her stomach until it found her breast. I closed my hand over it, squeezing and pulling on her nipple. With my other hand I circled her clit once, twice, and thrust two fingers up inside her, along with my tongue, making her cry out.
I held a steady rhythm, working her body until I could tell she was close. I pumped my fingers into her harder and faster, my mouth moving over her until it rested on her clit. I drew it into my mouth sucking on it, pulling on it, savoring her taste, and listening to her groans.
Plunging one last time, I pushed my fingers in as far as they could go.
"Oh! Edward!" She threw her head back and I could feel her walls convulsing around me. I kept still for just a minute then rose up next to her. I scooped her up, lying her down on the bed adjusting myself next to her. My lips captured hers urgently; I made my way down her neck, and closing my mouth over her perfect round breasts. She gasped again at my touch, making me throb even harder. I drew her perfect pink nipple between my lips as I settled my body between her legs. She opened them readily for me, shoving her hands into my hair again, tightening her fingers against my scalp.
I pulled my head up slightly, kissing her cheek and mouth one more time; I could feel my dick slip against the wetness of her opening. It felt so hot, so wet; I couldn't wait to experience her around me again.
"Bella," I whispered softly, she opened those big black eyes of hers, locking them with mine. "I love you."
She sucked in her breath at my words, her body trembled beneath me, those eyes blinked at me, and she smiled shakily, "I love you too Edward."
Just hearing those words again sent me into oblivion and I submerged myself into her, thrusting, feeling her body envelope me. She was so incredibly hot, so tight, and it felt like her walls were clinging to me, pulling me in deeper inside of her.
I could feel my own muscles tighten as I moved within her; her hands left my hair and ran up around my shoulders and down my back. She moved her body in tune with mine, lifting her hips to meet my every thrust. Arching her back against the mattress, sexy moans escaping her lips, she shifted her body, angling it so that I could push even deeper inside of her.
She turned her head, her mouth finding my arm; she kissed it gently, letting her tongue run over my skin. Her nails dug into my back roughly, but I didn't feel a thing. The only thing I could feel was the overpowering urge to love her and express that to her.
I love you…my heart cried as I continued to plunge into her…I love you…I could feel her short, hot breaths on my neck, her body withering under my own…I love you…my own climax began to rip through me.
"Oh!Edward!…I love you too!" Her words pierced through my senses and with a final deep push I felt her gasp and shake against me as I spilled into her. I clutched her to me, not wanting to let her go, feeling her heartbeat right next to mine. Careful not to crush her, I rested on my forearms and buried my head in her neck, trying to regain my breathing. Her hands floated up and down my back and I could feel her lips brush along my collarbone.
This is what had been ripped away from us so cruelly years ago, nearly destroying us both, but we had withstood the hurt and the pain, and found our way back to each other again. I was never ever going to let her go again because nothing else mattered, nothing else would ever matter.
Bella stirred beneath me breathing softly, I moved us carefully to our sides, not wanting to let go of our connection just yet.
I brushed her hair away from her face, looking into those sparkling black eyes just knowing there had to a God in heaven that had heard my prayers all these years. She smiled shyly at me, bringing her hand up and letting it rest on my cheek. I leaned into her palm, closing my eyes, a serene sigh escaping my lips.
"I love you." I whispered softly, burrowing my head in her hair, breathing in her intoxicating scent.
"I love you too." She answered nuzzling her face against my chest, her arms wrapped around me, holding me tightly.
And that's how we stayed, falling asleep in each other's arms, the entire night…
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BPOV
The shrill of the phone jerked me awake, and it took me a couple of seconds to remember where I was. Edward's face was inches from mine, he was fast asleep, his breathing in a deep peaceful pattern. I studied him fascinated, marveling at this perfect specimen of a man that belonged to me.
The phone rang again loudly, Edward stirred slightly and I turned anxiously, grabbing it, trying to answer it before it rang again and woke him up.
"Hello?"
"Bella, it's me, Alice. Is your TV on?"
"No," I glanced around the room, what time was it?
"Turn it on quick! ESPN."
"Is the Commissioner having his conference already?" I fumbled around looking for the remote to the television. I couldn't find it. Sighing I pushed myself off the bed, threw on my robe, and plodded over to the television set.
"Yes he is…with Papa Charlie…"
I hit the power button and froze.
"With who?"
"Papa Charlie…and…Mack Brown."
"Shit." I whispered, pushing the channel button furiously until I found the ESPN channel.
I thanked Alice and watched silently, fixed in place, as the news announcer chatted excitedly, speculating about the events that were about to happen.
"In just three minutes we'll take you over live to Cedar Sinai Hospital where Roger Goodell and Charlie Swan will holding a press conference regarding the scandal surrounding the Warrior's quarterback Edward Cullen, and Charlie Swan's daughter, the Warrior Coach Isabella Swan. Rumored to be making a statement is Cullen's former college football coach Mack Brown…"
I bit down on my bottom lip nervously, a sense of dread settling in the pit of my stomach. This did not sound good at all.
The feel of two strong warm arms suddenly wrapped themselves around my waist, and Edward pulled me to him, my back resting against his chest. He brought his chin down and rested it on my shoulder.
"Is that the Commissioner?" He asked quietly.
I nodded, pressing the edge of my temple to his cheek, "And my dad." I added.
I could feel his arms tighten around me, "Your dad?"
"Yes, and supposedly, Mack Brown."
Edward frowned, "Brown? What the hell is this?"
I shrugged, "I'm not sure…I thought the Commissioner was going to announce my fine and my resignation. I have no idea what my Dad or Mack Brown have to do with this."
Edward didn't answer and I probably wouldn't have noticed if he had, because the news cut right into the conference. There in the lobby of the hospital, where my dad was staying, were Roger Goodell, Mack Brown and my dad. None of them looked particularly happy.
A small wooden podium with a microphone attached to it was directly to the right of the men. They all glanced at each other uneasily as the camera zoomed in on them. Mack Brown stepped forward first.
"It has come to my attention that rumors have been circulating throughout the press and internet that a former Longhorn player, Edward Cullen, abused drugs and engaged in inappropriate behavior while playing for the Texas Longhorns. I would like to make it completely clear that Mr. Cullen never once partook in any drugs or alcohol while attending our University and participating in our ball club. His behavior, commitment, and loyalty to our team was above and beyond our expectations that were held for all of our players. He was a true leader, an accomplished student, and an exemplary role model. The Texas Longhorns wish to make it perfectly clear that we will not tolerate any type of media bashing against Mr. Cullen. It is clear by his skills and leadership that the Warriors made the correct choice in acquiring him for their franchise. I would also like to apologize for not coming forward earlier and announce that the Texas Longhorn's and myself will be donating $500,000 to Mr. Cullen's Promise Foundation, we will also be funding a new program within the Longhorns football system, educating our players about the dangers and setbacks of drugs and alcohol."
I could feel Edward's breathing become more and more rapid with every sentence Mack Brown spoke. My own mouth was open and I wasn't sure if what I was watching was true.
Roger Goodell stepped up next.
"Regarding the speculation surrounding Isabella Swan and Edward Cullen, the NFL would like to announce that while we do not condone or encourage the behavior, there are no rules or guidelines preventing a coach and player from being linked romantically, therefore the NFL has decided that any type of relationship Coach Swan and Mr. Cullen might be in, we will not make any effort to interfere or penalize them for it. There is absolutely no threat or consequence to either Miss. Swan's or Mr. Cullen's jobs, nor will there be so in the future. Their private life is strictly that…private. We would appreciate if the media would refocus their energies on what makes the NFL great…the game."
My breath left me in one fell swoop, Roger Goodell had had a change of heart and I had no clue what triggered that. Did Seth Clearwater go back and talk to him after I left yesterday? I glanced up at Edward in disbelief; he stared down at me with the same expression on his face. We both turned to the television at the same time as my dad stepped forward.
The expression on my dad's face was one of clear distress and apprehension. He literally scowled at the television cameras, his brows furrowed. He glanced to his side at a woman whose face couldn't be seen, she nodded at him, which seemed to give him some kind of courage, and he turned back to the cameras.
"I would just like to add in the defense of my daughter's actions, my daughter, whom I love very much, was very young when she first met Mr. Cullen, their relationship may have been brief but it bore as much, if not more, significance and substance than many married couples I see nowadays. The years my daughter and Mr. Cullen were apart just seemed to solidify their commitment to each other, and now that they have reestablished their connection with each other…" my dad took a deep breath and scowled again into the camera, "I am, without question, honored and privileged to acknowledge a man of Mr. Cullen's caliber back into my daughter's life."
I was gripping onto Edward's arms in shock as I listened to my dad speak. Edward was making these little grunting sounds, a mixture of confusion and dubiety. My dad paused for a second and then looked directly into the camera,
"I would also like to announce that I am resigning from my position as the Special Teams Coach for the Warriors effective immediately. There was some speculation that my daughter was going to resign, that is not the case, she will be coaching the Warriors in Sunday's Super Bowl, and she will be back on the field come next season, that is not negotiable."
The cameras faded off of my dad and went back to the news announcer who immediately launched into a recap of all three speeches. Neither Edward nor I moved from our positions.
The phone began ringing almost instantly. It took a good three rings before I could even make an effort to reach for it…
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Renee watched with proud eyes as Charlie left the podium and walked towards her. He was wearing dark brown dress pants and a pale tan long sleeve shirt that made him look so young and handsome. She had picked those clothes from his closet, it had been blissful to sleep at his place and be completely surrounded by his things. She had spent the better part of the evening just touching and admiring everything.
She reached out and took Charlie's hand, squeezing it kindly. They began walking back to his room.
"That was a very nice speech you made Charlie." She smiled at him.
Charlie looked at her sheepishly, "It should be…you helped me write it."
"Let's hope Bella thinks so too." Renee gave out a small laugh and the sweet sound of her voice made Charlie's heart lurch.
"She's probably not even watching it." He knew it would take a hell of a lot more than some measly speech to make up for everything he had done to her.
"I had one of the cameramen make you a copy. Call her Charlie…call her and Edward, you all could watch the tape, together. It will only get harder, the longer you wait…call her right now."
"She isn't going to want to see me." He sighed, his eyes locked onto his wife's and he could see in them, everything that the future might hold for him. "Renee…if Bella and Cull…uh…Edward will come see me…will you stay here with me?"
Renee's heart gave a funny little jump at his words, "Ask her first…it's been years since she's seen me, she might not want to…you have to ask her first."
She closed her eyes listening to Charlie fumble with the phone; he spoke softly, quickly, and was back by her side in a flash. It had taken him less than three minutes…there was no way Bella was going to want to talk to either one of them.
She looked up into Charlie's face; he had the oddest expression, almost a wild look.
"Well? What did she say?"
"She said…" he looked right into Renee's eyes, a lump forming in his throat, "She said yes…"
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Who wants to see the Superbowl...raise your hand! Don't forget...there's one more date left. ;)
See you soon!
