Disclaimer: Not mine…

A/N: Totally NOT an April Fool's joke! This is a new chapter. Quick huh? :-P I'm a little overwhelmed. My goal was like, 50 reviews by the time this story was completed! Thank you all for reading & reviewing! It means more to me than I can possibly say! I'm glad we're all ready to enjoy some happy times with Edward & Bella. :-) They deserve it right?

To stupidlamb2010: Thank you for being my 200th reviewer! :-)

Our dear friend Hope4More has started a new story, "Taking You Home". Only 2 chapters in, but I think it's going to be amazing. Be sure to go check it out!

AND, OMG!!! I got my tickets for opening day in the mail!! I'm sitting in the 8th row behind the Mariners' bench!! AHHHHHH!!! Yeah…I'm kind of excited. :-P

Songs for this chapter: Halo –Beyonce, Fearless –Taylor Swift, Knock You Down –Keri Hilson feat. Ne-Yo & Kanye West

Chapter 27

BPOV

June 21st

It was rare that I ever woke up before Edward. The majority of the time, it was his gentle touches and soft lips that woke me up. I had slept soundly last night, my body completely relaxed and turned to mush after what I could only describe as heavenly. The pleasure that coursed through my veins was indescribable, and my skin burned with trails of fire from Edward's hands. It was the best moment of my life, and somehow through the intensity of it all, I was able to do the same for Edward. Okay…so now I definitely understood what the big deal was about the big O. Alice wasn't joking. It only made me even more imaginative when it came to wondering what sex would be like with Edward.

I smiled as I leaned up on my elbow, one of Edward's arms still wrapped tightly around my waist. I could feel myself getting wet and it made me squirm slightly as I gazed over Edward's naked body. Because he was still sleeping, my nakedness didn't bother me, but his nakedness…dear lord…I just want to touch him everywhere.

It was hot when I woke up, Edward's lean body keeping me warm all night, and the sheets had fallen down past our hips…well…sort of. I had to stifle my laughter when I saw that it was Edward's very impressive erection that the sheets were getting hung up on. I don't think "impressive" was even an adequate description for what I felt and saw last night. Huge…monstrous…gargantuan…beautiful…could a penis even be beautiful? I shook my head…the only conclusion that I could come to, was that Edward was definitely WAY bigger than both James and Mike…a hypothesis I formed earlier but was definitely proven true last night. The thought made me swallow nervously. Would he even fit when it came time for us to have sex? Would he hurt me? I shook my head again…we weren't there yet. I would definitely need to talk to Alice.

Last night I had completely let down the last of my walls, and let the last of my worries fall away. I trusted Edward and he had all of my love, and through his actions, I knew without a doubt, that I had all of his in return. His trust, his love...he was my Edward. Every touch and every word that he murmured washed away the shy, insecure Bella that was so scared of being hurt again and letting her heart get broken. He made me feel like I was a goddess as he worshipped my body, and I felt even more like one when I was able to take control and give him pleasure in return.

Edward murmured something unintelligible and his body shifted slightly. When I glanced up at him, he was still fast asleep, but a slight smile was playing at his lips. It was early, when I glanced at the clock it was just before 9 in the morning. It must have been a little cloudy because the light coming in through Edward's drapes was faint, yet cast him in a heavenly glow. He was so beautiful, and it was hard to believe that he had chosen me…that he wanted to be with me…that he loved me. His pale skin almost glowed and his hair looked like wisps of fire licking at his sheets. His skin was incredibly smooth and I couldn't stop touching him. Ever so softly I traced the planes of his chest, circling his nipples and watching how his chest began to rise and fall faster. The muscle under his smooth skin was firm under my fingertips and slowly I began to drag them lower, tracing every indent of his abs. Edward's breathing increased and he moaned softly, his hips shifting off the bed slightly.

Continuing my exploration, my fingertips now danced precariously close to the bunched up sheets and Edward's erection, standing tall and pitching an impressive tent. I slid my fingers under the sheet, just barely brushing the base of him through the coarse hair. My thumb was brushing one of the V shaped lines of his hips, when one of Edward's hands darted out and grabbed my wrist, making me scream as Edward moaned loudly.

"Bella, baby…" his voice rough with sleep, "What are you doing?"

I smiled, pressing a kiss to his chest and gently biting at the skin there. The fingers on the hand Edward trapped with his continued to curl against the skin near his hip. Edward groaned loudly.

"Bella, love…I'm going to explode if you keep doing that."

"Let me…please…" I whispered between kisses to his chest.

"Bella…"

I pushed myself higher up his chest placing kisses as I went. Edward moaned softly, whimpering feebly in protest. The goddess in me was rejoicing. When I was face to face with him I pressed my lips to his soundly before pulling away, for fear of my morning breath. Sitting up higher, I gazed down at my absolutely gorgeous boyfriend. His green eyes were sleepy, and heavy lidded, and he gave me that crooked grin that I adored.

"Bella…" He tried again without much effort.

"Please…I want to…show me how…" I murmured.

Edward didn't respond, but his grip on my wrist loosened, and his hand fell away to rest at his side. Slowly I sat up and kneeled at his side, pulling the sheet up and off of him. It was only a brief glance I took last night in the dim light of the bathroom, but here in the rapidly brightening morning light, I could do nothing but stare. Did he really look that big last night? Oh my God! I think it just moved!

"I hope your silence is a good thing…" Edward breathed out heavily.

I turned and blushed, giving him a sheepish smile, "Um…it is."

I reached out a tentative hand before pulling back, remembering that I stark naked, kneeling beside Edward in his bed in the bright light.

"Bella, you don't have to…" Edward said as he started to sit up.

"NO!" I cried, causing him to fall backwards startled, "I want to! I just…I'm…I'm naked…"

The last part barely came out as a whisper and Edward burst out chuckling.

"Bella, baby…in case you haven't noticed, I too am quite naked."

"I…well…"

"Isabella, you're so beautiful love…absolutely perfect…"

The way he spoke and the look in his eyes told me everything. He really did see me as beautiful and I saw nothing but love in his emerald eyes as he smiled at me. I leaned forward and pressed another soft kiss to his lips.

"I love you," I whispered.

Slowly I reached my hand out and wrapped it tightly around his stiff member, remembering how he seemed to like it last night. I was intrigued by the feel…so hard, yet covered by smooth and soft skin. I gasped, feeling him pulse in my hand, liquid seeping from the tip. Edward moaned loudly, throwing his head back into the pillows.

"Is this okay?" I asked. Edward was breathing heavily, and wrapped his right hand around mine, making my grip on him tighter. Slowly he started to move my hand up and down, stroking him as he guided me.

"God…Bella…" Edward panted, his head thrown back and mouth hanging open.

I began to quicken my pace and Edward's hand fell away from my own, moving to fist his sheets tightly as his hips bucked up into my hand. His moans were consistent and getting louder as I felt more liquid seep onto my hand. His hips flexed with the movements of my hand, and I watched, fascinated, as his muscles rippled under his skin. Remembering something I read in Cosmo, I brushed my thumb under his head, and Edward cried out, louder than I had ever heard him before.

"FUCK! Oh God…Bella…baby…"

I giggled as Edward began to thrust into my hand harder. He hardly ever swore. My giggles were cut short and turned into moans when I felt Edward's hand that was closest to me begin to massage one of my breasts. I moaned loudly, the space between my thighs beginning to throb unbearably.

"Oh shit…Bella baby…your sounds…uhhhhh…close…Oh shit…fuck…oh fu-uhhhhh…"

I watched, completely fascinated and elated as Edward let out an almost feral sounding growl slash moan, his veins and muscles in his neck bulging as he threw his head back, eyes closed, and mouth hanging open. It was like his entire body tensed before going slack as he exploded into my hand covering me with his seed. I couldn't help but stare, fascination overtaking my elation as I watched the sticky, white substance spill into my hand. Edward's hand that had rested on my breast fell limply away and his entire body relaxed. His chest was heaving and I leaned forward placing a soft kiss on his chest before slipping out of the bed to grab a towel. I heard Edward mumbling something that was probably protesting, but I ignored him, returning with a damp wash cloth after washing off my hand.

Edward moaned softly as I gently cleaned him off, also remembering reading in Cosmo that a guy was way too sensitive to touch after an orgasm, his body unable to handle the lightest of touches. I would have to also thank Alice for getting us that subscription. Edward was still breathing heavily when I returned from the bathroom again and snuggled into his side.

"Good morning baby," I whispered, nuzzling his chest.

Edward surprised me when he rolled over and pinned me under him, his lips immediately going to my neck.

"Good morning indeed…" he murmured.

He pushed himself up on his elbows and looked down at me, his crooked smile absolutely radiant and the skin near his eyes crinkling up with his happiness.

"Bella, thank you…that was amazing baby," Edward sighed, his smile still plastered on his face. Her brought a hand up and gently trailed his fingertips over my cheek. I couldn't help but smile back at him, but it faded when I saw his smile turn mischievous, his grin telling me that he was up to no good.

"Edward…" I started.

"Time for me to return the favor…"


"Edward, we had tons of food left over! We could've just eaten that," I grumbled as we strolled through Pike's Place Market. Mostly I was grumbling that he had stolen the check away from me before I even got a chance to look at it.

After "returning the favor" as he called it, and giving me an orgasm that seemed even more intense than last night's, we took a shower (I at least behaved and kept my hands to myself…), got ready, and started our date. Edward brought me down to Lowell's at Pike's Place to eat brunch. The marketplace wasn't too terribly crowded and we were free to browse and walk around like a normal couple. Edward kept his sunglasses on, but I think it's the hair that seriously gives him away. We were walking past the original Starbucks location when a boy, maybe like 12 years old, stopped us and asked Edward for his autograph. Edward was polite and quick about it, noticing other people were staring and wondering what was going on. He quickly started escorting us back to the car after that.

"Baby…it's not a date if we're just sitting at home eating in our pajamas," Edward responded, the Volvo in sight now.

I rolled my eyes, "Edward…I'm just saying we didn't have to go out to eat and spend money."

Edward frowned as we got to the car, pinning me against the passenger side door.

"I like spending my money on you," He whispered, his body leaning into mine, pressing against me and causing me to have rather inappropriate thoughts involving his precious Volvo.

"But-"

I didn't even get to finish my sentence because Edward's lips were on mine and like always, his touch made me forget what I was trying to say in the first place. This man was far too intoxicating. If I didn't know any better, I would think Edward was some kind of drug…everything about him making me want him. He chuckled softly, pulling away to place a kiss on my forehead.

"Let me take care of you Bella," He murmured into my hair, "I love you."

"You don't fight fair," I mumbled as he pulled me into a hug against his chest. I inhaled deeply, letting his smell calm me and lull me into an Edward induced stupor. As much as I hated to think it, Edward was leaving again in 3 days. I needed to get as much of him as I could before then.

Edward held my hand in his as he drove us to our next destination. He smiled as he drove, the soft music playing through the speakers was a calm classical piece, and we sat in a comfortable silence as he wove through the streets of Seattle. When we arrived at the Seattle Center, I was confused…not really sure what we were going to do. I hadn't been down here in years. The Space Needle, one of Seattle's most recognizable land marks was here, not to mention that the news channel building across the street had a large billboard with a picture of Edward and a few of his teammates on it. Edward parked the car and got out, coming to my side to open my door.

"Edward, what are we-"

"You're getting a music lesson."

"What?" I nearly shouted, stopping in my tracks.

"Just trust me," Edward smiled, taking my hand and squeezing it with his.

I nodded hesitantly and followed, Edward leading us towards an giant building that appeared to be all the colors of the rainbow, the side we were walking on mostly red, but I could see blues and yellows near the top of the building. Edward stopped in front of a pair of glass doors grinning.

"Here we are."

My brows furrowed when I read the sign.

"The Experience Music Project?"

Edward smiled down at me, looking exactly like the little boy I had seen in pictures when I had been at his house during Christmas. There was a sparkle of excitement in his eyes and it made me smile in return.

"As you know, Jimi Hendrix was from Seattle. This is a museum of sorts…in his honor. The exhibits change from time to time, but the constant exhibit is all about Hendrix. Original costumes, guitars, lyrics he wrote, pictures…all here."

"I didn't know you were such a Hendrix fan," I giggled.

"He was one of the greatest," Edward said, his face turning serious. This man and his music…can't stand in the way of it.

"I know his songs are on the 'hard' level of 'Guitar Hero' and stuff. Jasper plays it all the time."

Edward chuckled and shook his head, "Well, one of the other exhibits here shows you how to play a multitude of instruments, hence your music lessons. None of this X-Box crap."

"Oh boy…we could be here all day if I'm learning how to play an instrument…"

My lack of coordination was one of the reasons I never took up an instrument in the first place.

"You'll be fine Bella," Edward smiled, leading me towards the door, "Oh…and you like Linkin Park right?"

I nodded. They were one of my favorite modern groups.

"The uh…rapper I believe it is, Mike Shinoda, he's got some artwork on display here as part of the exhibit that changes from time to time. I thought you would like to see that as well."

"Really?" I said excitedly.

"Really," Edward smiled, "Come on, let's go. Oh…and this building? It's supposed to look like a guitar Jimi Hendrix smashed at Woodstock. It's only visible from the sky though."

Security was really strict and we weren't allowed to take pictures of any kind when we were inside. There was this amazing sculpture in the middle of the main room that was made up of all these different instruments. I saw saxophones, trumpets, guitars, violins, keyboards…it was amazing. Edward stood by my side the entire time as we made our way around the exhibits, holding my hand or keeping his arm around my waist. There were a few tourists, and one or two recognized him, but no one bothered us. Mike Shinoda's artwork was amazing and Edward agreed, reading on the little plaque with information on the wall that Mike Shinoda also designed the cover art of all of the Linkin Park's albums. I have to say I learned an awful lot about Jimi Hendrix as well. I didn't even realize that he played the guitar with his left hand. Edward called me exceptionally unobservant. I wondered if Jasper knew that fact.

When we came to the exhibit where you could learn to play different instruments, I was admittedly nervous. I knew Edward was fabulous at the piano, and apparently he played the guitar too. That didn't calm my nerves any as we went to the electric guitar tutorial. Edward and I spent a good amount of time in there, learning (well, me anyways) the electric guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and even a D.J. turntable. Edward was the worst at that one…it was the only one where I did better than he did.

"Oh Edward, that was so much fun," I sighed into his chest, hugging him tightly to me as we stood outside on the sidewalk next to his car.

"I'm glad you liked it," Edward murmured, his lips pressing against my forehead.

I inhaled deeply and held Edward in my arms tighter. His arms wrapped around my shoulders and crushed me to him. He started peppering my face with big, sloppy kisses and I squealed.

"EDWARD!" I tried to push him, but he held me tightly, continuing his attack of wet kisses on my face.

"I…kiss…love…kiss...you…kiss…"

Finally Edward pulled back slightly and looked down at me. I stuck my bottom lip out as far as I could, doing my best impression of Alice's puppy-dog pout. Edward laughed loudly and pecked my lips.

"Baby, don't pout…you're too beautiful to pout."

"What?" I laughed, pulling back further to look at him.

Edward grinned at me, "There's that smile I love."

I tip-toed and pressed another kiss against his lips, "What now?"

Edward hummed, pulling away and lacing his hand with mine, leading us back towards the car.

"Since it's still such a nice day, I say we take the dogs to the dog park for an hour or two. We can eat some left-overs at home before we go?"

"That sounds perfect."

Jake and Nessie were so excited when we led them to the car after grabbing something to eat. They knew that if we were going to the car, it was time for a trip to the dog park. The park was empty when we got there and Jake and Nessie went running off on their own. Edward brought a blanket with us and we were lying in a spot near the back of the park near the lake. In the summer time the grass was lush and green, and Edward I were lying on our backs, enjoying the heat for a bit, his arm acting as my pillow behind my head, and bending his elbow so his hand was on my chest and I could play with his long fingers.

"Do you ever think about the day we met?"

"Hm?" was my response as I turned onto my side and snuggled into Edward.

"The day we met…do you think about it?"

I nearly snorted, "You mean when I spilled all of my drinks on you?"

"No…" Edward chuckled sarcastically, "I try not to remember all the times I've acted like a complete asshole towards you."

"Edward, I-"

I was starting to sit up, not liking where I thought he was going with this, but I was surprised when he pulled me back down and I ended up lying on top of his chest, staring eye to eye with him.

"I meant the day I met you here."

"Oh…" I said softly.

"I think about it all the time," Edward murmured, leaning up and brushing his lips against mine, "I think about how you looked…sitting there in the sunshine reading your magazine…"

Edward smirked when he mentioned the magazine and I immediately blushed, remembering the article I was reading at the time: 50 Sex Tricks.

"Hmmm…do you still have that magazine by the way? Perhaps one day we could try out all of those tricks?"

"Edward!" I squealed, his fingers tickling my side. They were relentless and soon I found myself looking back up at the sky and Edward now hovering over me. His fingers let up as he smiled down at me. Leaning forward, he pressed his lips to mine and murmured softly against them.

"I love you Bella…I think I knew that day…when I saw you…all beauty and fire…you were what I needed…you are what I'll ALWAYS want."

Edward's eyes were closed as he pressed his forehead against mine, and I tried in vain to keep the tears from spilling out of my eyes, but I couldn't stop them. He said "always"…that was the same as "forever" right? He wanted me for forever? I couldn't deny that I wanted that too. There was no way I could ever feel for someone else what I felt for Edward. After all of the drama, all of the problems, the demons in our pasts…there was no one else I wanted, no one else I loved more than Edward. I couldn't stop from sniffling loudly and the tears leaked from my eyes.

"Bella, love, what's wrong?" Edward whispered, pulling back to look at me.

"Nothing…" I shook my head, wiping my eyes.

"Bella…"

"It was nothing bad," I sniffled, "You said everything right."

"Wha…really?" Edward asked softly.

I nodded.

"I love you so much Edward…I…I think it was the same for me too, when we went to the diner for the first time," I chuckled, "And you showed me the man you are."

"I mean it you know…" Edward whispered, "Always…I'll always want you."

Edward's eyes were gazing at me, their color looking like emerald fire they were so intense. I had no doubt that he meant every word. It didn't matter to me that we had only been dating for a few months. All I knew was that Edward Cullen was it for me.

"Always," I whispered back, lifting my fingers to trace his jaw.

Edward pressed his lips to mine, letting his body rest against me. We lost ourselves in the remainder of our time at the park, enjoying each other and the peacefulness. It was hard to believe, lying in Edward's arms, that life could get any better than this.

June 23rd

"Wow…I'm amazed Edward let you out without him."

I scowled as I sat across from Alice on the couch.

"He had a meeting with Alec and Jane this morning. He thought I might like to hang out here with you before we had lunch before his game tonight."

Alice just crossed her arms over her chest and huffed.

"What the hell Alice?" I snapped.

"I'm just saying," Alice huffed, "last time I checked, you still lived HERE, and I haven't seen my best friend outside of something Mariner involved in ages!"

There were so many things I could say right now. I could continue to snap, solving absolutely nothing…or I could apologize for something I really didn't feel like was my fault. Couldn't she understand? Edward traveled so much and he was only home for a week or two at a time! And it was his birthday! And not that I'm not happy for them, but she and Jasper are getting married! They don't need me around anymore! She doesn't need me around anymore. Why shouldn't I spend my time with someone who wants to see me?

"What the hell do you want me to say Alice? Edward is gone all the time! He's only here until tomorrow and then he's gone again! Why can't I spend all the time I can with him? Why shouldn't I be able to see him?"

I could feel angry tears pouring down my cheeks and I was cursing once again that I cried so easily. Suddenly I found myself wrapped up in a tiny, but freakishly strong pair of arms.

"Oh Bella! Stop crying!" Alice wailed, "I'm sorry!"

"I just...Edward and I are so happy right now and now he's leaving again tomorrow and I miss him so much when he's gone and it's like I can't even think straight when he's gone! And you and Jasper are getting married and you don't want me to live here anymore and I can't live with a married couple and-"

"BELLA SWAN!" Alice shrieked, "SHUT UP!"

My jaw snapped closed as my shoulders heaved with the breaths I was trying to suck in. When I pulled back, Alice left her hands on my shoulders and she had tears in her eyes as she stared back at me.

"Oh Bella…" She sighed, "I just miss you…"

"I'm sorry Alice…" I sniffled, "I just…I don't want to upset you and…I'm sorry."

I knew I hadn't been around Alice very much save for the baseball games and Edward's birthday party. All of my free time was spent with Edward. I was trying to wrap my brain around Alice and Jasper's engagement. It's not like I was really surprised or anything…I knew it was going to happen. I didn't know how to explain it…all I knew was that a married couple didn't want their friend tagging along in the same house.

"I'm sorry Alice. I haven't been a very good best friend. I'm really happy for you and Jasper. I'll start looking for another place later today-"

"Bella Swan!" Alice shouted, shaking my shoulders, "What are you talking about?"

"You and Jasper," I sniffled, "You guys are getting married. You don't want your friend living in the same house."

Alice rolled her eyes, "Bella, you are absolutely absurd. Yes, Jasper and I are going to get married, but it's not like we're going to get married tomorrow. And even if we were, we wouldn't kick you out! You can stay as long as you want sweetie."

Alice smiled and her gaze softened, "Bella, Jasper and I would never let you go without knowing that you were going to be okay. And I miss you Bells…I'm sorry I reacted the way I did."

She slid her hands down my shoulders and took my hands squeezing them softly, "You're stronger than I could ever be Bella. I don't think I'd be able to be apart from Jasper like you are from Edward. I wouldn't be able to do it."

She pulled me into another hug, "Bella, you know I'm happy for you and Edward. I guess I'll just have to learn how to adjust."

She chuckled as she squeezed me, " I guess I just never expected the day to come when we wouldn't be living together anymore to come so soon."

I couldn't help but laugh, "Alice…you knew you were going to marry Jasper the moment you met him. You knew one day I'd move out."

"But I didn't expect it to come so soon!" Alice pouted.

I pulled back to look at her, "Alice, you're happy right? You and Jasper being engaged?"

"Of course I am Bella…but you know I worry about you. Jasper and I want nothing but the best for you, to make sure you're taken care of."

I nodded, looking down at our hands.

"Bella…are you really happy?"

I looked up and smiled, finding Alice smiling back at me. I nodded.

"I am Alice…I…I have everything that I never thought I would. The great job, the best friends, adoring boyfriend…I'm happier than I've ever been."

Alice smiled and squeezed my hands, "I'm so happy for you Bells. You deserve it more than anyone I know."

"Even more than you?" I asked playfully, knowing we were okay now.

"Well…" Alice chuckled, "Maybe not more than me."

I laughed and let go of her hands, grabbing a pillow and smacking her with it. Alice squealed and retaliated, and soon, we were in an all out pillow fight in the middle of the living room. Something we hadn't done since we lived in the dorms together in college. The pixie managed to tackle me onto the couch and I was laughing hard as she continued to whack me with a pillow.

"Who am I going to pillow fight with if you move out?" Alice pouted as I whacked her with a pillow.

"I'm sure Jasper wouldn't protest…" I chuckled between assaults from Alice's pillow.

"I'm sure Edward wouldn't either…" Alice laughed and paused, dropping her pillow and looking at me seriously, "Bella…are you…do you think you'd move in with Edward?"

I bit my lip as I thought about it. Whenever he was in town, I pretty much lived with him. Even when he wasn't here, I was there taking care of the dogs or making sure his apartment was taken care of. He always asked me to be there with him, and I had realized that I had been referring to his place as home, and last night when I was making something to eat, he had called the kitchen "ours", saying to make whatever "our" kitchen had to offer. I couldn't deny that I liked the sound of that.

I answered Alice simply, "My home is wherever Edward is. If he asks me to, I'll move in. I don't want to be apart from him if I don't have to."

Alice giggled and leaned down to hug me so she was now lying on my chest. Seriously, she was lucky she was so tiny…

"Oh my God…how come I never came home to this sight before?"

Alice and I froze, her sitting on top of me on the couch, turning towards the door to see a grinning Jasper and a blushing Edward standing there.

"Jazzy…" Alice rolled her eyes, climbing off of me.

I sat up slowly. How long had they been standing there? Did Edward hear what I said? I blushed immediately, Alice having gone to Jasper's side, and Edward sitting down next to me on the couch. I kept my gaze on the ground. What if he didn't want me to move in with him? Maybe he wasn't ready for that yet-

My mind was interrupted by soft lips pressing against my ear and a velvet voice murmuring softly.

"You're my home too Bella…wherever you are is my home."

My cheeks felt like they were on fire as Edward's lips moved from my ear and placed soft kisses on my jaw until her met my lips. I sighed, his words and his kisses putting my mind at ease. Edward pulled back and rested his forehead against mine.

"Did you want to still go grab lunch or do you want to eat here? Jasper offered…said he made his famous chili last night."

I sighed and wrapped my arms around his neck, "What do you want to do? We've got three hours before you need to be at the stadium."

"Well…" Edward said, pulling back to smile at me, "Jasper did talk up his chili quite a bit…even said it was better than yours."

I gasped and I heard Jasper and Alice laughing behind me.

"Bells…you know mine is better. It's a Texas thing," Jasper drawled out. Alice and I burst out laughing at how strong Jasper's Southern accent had just come out. Edward looked at me, slightly puzzled.

"Whitlock…how many times do I have to tell you that Arizona makes a mean chili!" I shouted playfully.

"Hmmm…" Edward hummed, wrapping his arms around me, "When I come back I think we need to have a little cook-off. I'll be back July 5th. Would you guys be down for something like that? A little late July 4th celebration?"

"That sounds great!" Alice smiled, "Emmett and Rosalie can help judge."

I couldn't help but agree, loving that Edward was taking the initiative to plan something with our friends. Edward decided that he wanted to just relax at the house with Alice and Jasper. The chili was good and Edward stated that it was, but he would have to try mine first before he made any decisions. We were all relaxing in the living room, Jasper and Edward deciding to play some video games to keep Edward's mind and body calm before heading to the stadium. Alice and I retreated to my room, stating that I wanted to pack up some clothes for tomorrow. Edward smiled and kissed me softly before I headed to my room. He didn't say it out loud, but I was reassured that he liked me staying at his apartment with him.

Alice sat on my bed as I went around my room, cleaning up and grabbing clothes as I went. I grimaced when I saw my laundry pile. I would have to do some serious laundry when Edward was gone. As I looked around my room, it almost felt unfamiliar to me. I hadn't been in here in days. The only thing that seemed familiar were the pictures on the dresser and my collection of books. I frowned when I looked at the frames.

"I don't even have any pictures of Edward and I. Like, none at all."

"You guys didn't take any on your date the other day?" Alice asked, flipping through my copy of Wuthering Heights that was lying on the bed.

I shook my head. Only now had it really occurred to me that Edward and I didn't have any pictures together.

"When we have the chili party when Edward comes back, I'll make sure to take pictures Bella," Alice smiled.

I nodded, rummaging through my underwear drawer for a set to wear tonight. Edward was leaving straight from the stadium tomorrow night after the game, so tonight was our last night together. I threw the midnight blue lacey set that Alice had bought me once for my birthday into my bag. I knew we weren't going to have sex tonight…but I could at least look sexy for him right?

"Finally making use of that set I bought you huh?"

"What?" I jumped, Alice suddenly standing next to me. Alice raised her brows at me, her eyes going back and forth between the bag in my hands and my eyes.

"Umm…" I blushed, "tonight's the last night Edward and I get to spend together before he leaves. He's leaving straight from the stadium tomorrow night."

I swear, sometimes when Alice squeals she must torture the dogs in the neighborhood.

"Oh my God…Bella!" Alice squealed, pulling me to sit on the bed, "Did you guys…"

I shook my head vehemently, "Not yet."

"But you're thinking tonight…"

"No…not yet…" I bit my lip, "Alice…can I ask you something?"

"Bella, you know you can ask me anything."

"Do you think it's going to hurt?" I whispered.

"Having sex with Edward?"

"I…well…" I stuttered, not wanting to share such intimate details with Alice, but I trusted her, "well…he's just really…big…down there."

Someone else might have laughed, but Alice smiled sympathetically at me and patted my thigh.

"Bella, I'm sure Edward is freaking out inside about making love to you."

"What? Why?" I shouted, but before I could say anything else, Alice clamped her and down over my mouth.

"Shhh! I'm not finished," she smirked, "I say he's probably freaking out inside because anyone who looks at him knows that Edward over-thinks everything! We know he wants to make love to you badly, and he wants to do everything in his power to make sure that when you guys DO take that step, that it's perfect for you. He doesn't want to hurt you and he will want to make it special…something you'll never forget. If I read him correctly, he probably wants to give you the first time you should have had. I'm sure he's pondering every way that he can to make it perfect and make sure that you enjoy it instead of hurting."

I nodded under Alice's hand, completely seeing her point. Edward didn't talk about it much, but when I thought back to our conversations about our physical relationship, I knew that he was probably freaking out trying to make things perfect.

"Bella, I know I sound like a broken record, but talk to Edward. Tell him you're intimidated by his giant man parts," She giggled, but quickly became serious again, "He'll go slow and make it amazing for you Bella…that I'm sure of."

We were silent for a bit as I finished up packing my bag. I heard Alice chuckle as she stared at the floor.

"Bella, I take it you guys are at third base?"

"Er…yeah…"

"So you've finally met the big O?" Alice grinned. I nodded, my cheeks flushing again.

"And…?"

"I see what the big deal is now."

Alice squealed and clapped her hands, "Yet another rite of passage into womanhood. I'm happy for you Bells."

I laughed, "Only you would be this happy for her friend because she finally experienced an orgasm."

"Bella, if I knew it wouldn't embarrass the crap out of you, I'd throw you a party."

With my bag packed and a big hug from Alice, we headed back out into the living room, seeing Jasper and Edward finish up a game of "Halo 3". Jasper turned when he saw us and stood up.

"Isabella, did your man here tell you what his meeting was about this morning?"

I froze and I think my face paled. Was Edward in trouble? Did something bad happen? I know it's his last year in his contract…

"Bella!" Edward cried quickly pushing past Jasper and wrapping me in his arms, "It's nothing bad baby. It's really not important."

Edward was glaring at Jasper and Alice danced on over to Jasper before smacking him on the arm.

"Way to scare the crap out of Bella!"

I blushed and buried my face in Edward's chest, hearing Jasper murmur a "sorry darlin'" to Alice.

"Let me try this again," Jasper cleared his throat, "Did Edward tell you his incredibly awesome news?"

"Obviously not," Alice rolled her eyes.

When I pulled back and looked up at Edward he was shaking his head, his eyes closed. If I wasn't mistaken, his cheeks were turning redder by the second. I couldn't help but giggle…Edward looked adorably embarrassed.

"What is it Edward? Tell me," I murmured.

"I have to do a photo shoot next week in New York…" Edward mumbled.

"A photo shoot for who?"

Edward mumbled under his breath but I couldn't understand him. Jasper groaned and I looked at him as he rolled his eyes.

"Jesus Christ Edward! He's doing a photo shoot for People magazine Bella! He's one of their 100 Sexiest Bachelors for 2010."

"Really?" I asked, my eyes going wide as I stared back up at Edward.

"Yeah…" He mumbled.

"Edward!" I squealed, wrapping my arms around him, crushing myself to him, "That's so awesome!"

"What?" Edward asked, completely confused as he staggered backwards.

"I told you man!" I heard Jasper shout as Alice let out a squeal.

I pulled back and cupped Edward's cheeks, "Baby…People magazine? This is a big deal!"

"I'm glad you think so," Edward muttered, "The only woman I want thinking I'm sexy is you."

I couldn't help but smile and press a kiss to his lips. When I pulled back he was frowning.

"Edward," I sighed, "You don't think this is a big deal?"

"I'm not a bachelor…" He mumbled, "I'm off the market."

"They mean a bachelor as in 'not married yet' Edward," Alice smiled, "They do a little write up and whether you're single or not. Didn't Alec and Jane explain this?"

"Not really," Edward sighed, "It was either I do a photo shoot or they use some picture on file…either way I was going to be included in the list. I'd rather do a new photo shoot than have them use some paparazzi picture or something from the past."

"Oh Edward…" I sighed, trying really hard not to laugh. He looked like a little kid pouting about not getting his way.

"In my head 'bachelor' translates as 'single', and I'm not single."

"Edward, Alice explained," I chuckled.

He sighed heavily so I pulled him close and held him tightly. I couldn't stop my amusement from bubbling forward.

"My boyfriend is on a magazine's sexiest man list!" I giggled.

Edward growled softly and I found myself airborne as he picked me up and had me pressed between him and the wall. I automatically wrapped my legs around his waist and Edward growled again as his lips brushed against mine.

"I only want to be YOUR sexy man," Edward whispered against my lips.

I laughed softly against his lips, "You are my sexy man…my only sexy man."

Edward pressed his lips against mine and I was lost in the feeling, burying my hands into his hair.

"Ahem! There are others in the room!"

Edward broke our kiss and buried his face into my neck, my entire body heating at the fact we completely ignored the fact that Alice and Jasper were still in the room.

"Won't be a bachelor for long…" I heard Jasper snicker as he hid his smile behind Alice's head.

I tried not to think too hard about Jasper's comment.

June 24th

"Mmmm…baby, why do have clothes on?"

I giggled as I lay on top of Edward. He pulled me to him immediately when I sat next to him and started waking him up with kisses on his face and chest. Last night was nowhere short of amazing yet again, and I tried not to scream out loud in excitement, knowing that Edward and I were closer to taking that next step. We didn't talk about my…fears, but I knew we would when he came back. I trusted what Alice said…Edward would make everything perfect when the time came. He wouldn't let me get hurt…but knowing him, it would be perfect.

"I have to go meet your mom at the office. I'm meeting the owners of the property for the house I designed."

"You're meeting my mom this morning?" Edward asked, his eyes opening wider and his determination to keep me in bed fading.

"Yeah…" I giggled, as I slipped off his body and sat up next to him on the bed.

"She wanted me to come in and visit her this morning too," Edward mumbled, rubbing his eyes, "I guess because I'm leaving tonight and they're heading back to Forks tomorrow."

"Well, get dressed mister! I'll make you breakfast while you shower."

"Eggs and bacon?" Edward mumbled, getting out of the bed and stumbling butt naked towards the bathroom.

"Whatever you want," I giggled, watching as he bumped into the door frame.

"Eggs and bacon!" Edward called out before closing the bathroom door.

After eating our breakfast and taking the dogs out for a quick walk, Edward was driving me over to his mother's main office in Seattle. He held my hand the entire way, lifting it up to place soft kisses on my knuckles whenever we paused at a stop light. The Golden Eyes office was of course beautifully designed and Esme was waiting for us with, to my surprise, Carlisle.

"Mom, Dad…I didn't know you both would be here," Edward said, leaning down to kiss Esme's cheek and giving Carlisle a handshake.

"We both wanted to see the both of you before we left," Carlisle smiled.

"Let's go in here," Esme said, leading us into the first conference room, "Do you guys want any coffee? Muffins?"

"Coffee sounds good," Edward smiled, pulling out my chair before sitting in his own.

I couldn't help but wonder where the owners were that I was supposed to be meeting. Esme said they were coming at 10:30 and it was already 10:45. Carlisle and Edward were talking about the upcoming game and road-trip and I was growing more nervous by the minute. Was Esme talking to the owners? Did they see me and decide I was too young and didn't like my work? Were they telling her they didn't want my designs?

"Hey," Edward whispered in my ear, causing me to jump, "What are you thinking so hard about?"

I shrugged, "Just nervous about meeting the owners."

Edward leaned forward and pressed a kiss to my temple, "I'm sure it'll be fine love. They'd be crazy not to love that house. If they don't take it, I will."

I turned to look at him, somewhat surprised, "Really?"

Edward grinned, "I told you baby, I love that house you designed."

I sighed and leaned in to him.

"Maybe one day you can design us our dream house."

My heart froze in my chest and jumped up into my throat, keeping me from responding. Edward pressed another kiss into my temple just as Esme came back into the room, not giving me a moment to really gather myself. My mind was racing in all directions from Edward's words and the fact that Esme was alone.

"Wh…where are the owners?" I managed to choke out, "Are they not coming?"

Esme grinned at Carlisle and pulled his hand into her lap.

"Actually Bella, Carlisle and I own the property."


Well? Yes? No? LOL…was that what you expected about the house? Okay…kind of a cliffy, but all will be resolved in the next chapter. :-)

#1. The Experience Music Project is totally a real place in Seattle. I had tons of fun in that exhibit that teaches you how to play musical instruments. Drums were totally my favorite. And it's not there anymore, but Mike Shinoda's artwork was there when I went. He's a crazy talented guy.

#2. I've started mapping out my next story. Probably won't post until this one is almost done. Trying my hand at a sort of AU, but not really deal. There are vampires, but not everyone who's usually one is one. LOL...don't want to share too much yet. Keep a look out. :- )

#3. Still in BPOV for the next chapter…I'm debating whether or not I want to go halve-sies and do EPOV for the last half. We'll see. What do you think?

#4. Let me know what you guys thought, good or bad, pretty please? WOOHOO!! Real life baseball season is almost here!!! :-D