Chapter 29

AN: Hello all! You are not imagining things…This is a real update. I'm so sorry that it has taken me so long to update. Working full-time and going to school full-time was a little more overwhelming than I thought it would be. Just so that you know, I am not giving up on this story. Yes, I realize that it takes me a long time to update, but nevertheless, I will see this story through to the end. So don't worry. Feel free to PM me to give me a nudge. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to review my story. I truly appreciate it.

Beta'd by: KareBear1965

EPOV

The clouds in the sky were darkening at an alarming rate; and the howling of the freezing cold air seemed to cut right through my thick clothing settling into my bones. It was truly a fitting setting worthy of the premise of the day; a bittersweet farewell to a woman with whom I'd heard nothing but great things about since my arrival. I didn't know Charlotte Clearwater, but after witnessing the out-pouring of love in her memory, I wished I had. Unfortunately, my meeting this special woman wasn't meant to be, and I felt genuinely cheated of the honor.

Yet, as I walked hand and hand with the object of my affection; the feel of her hand encased within mine, I couldn't' feel anything other than immense contentment and joy. Was it wrong to feel this way on such a sad occasion? I had absolutely no idea, but I couldn't deny how I felt. Nor would I…

As the service came to an end, I watched in agony as Bella walked away from the coffin. Her arms were wrapped around her body, as a seemingly endless stream of tears ran down her face. I was rooted to the spot. I hadn't seen her like this since the Jacob incident. Her heartbreak was just as apparent at that moment as it was then, and similarly to that time I had no idea, what do to.

Through the sea of my friend's bodies that were surrounding me, my heart leapt in my chest at the exact moment that Bella noticed saw Alice as he was saying something to me. When Alice noticed my expression staring over her shoulder, she immediately turned in Bella's direction and the seconds felt like lifetimes as she moved towards us. My friends stepped aside putting me directly in her line of sight, and I held my breath as, we finally, locked eyes.

It was one of the most profoundly agonizing moments of my life. In her eyes, I saw relief and overwhelming joy, but there was another emotion there; one that healed the fissure in my chest that she'd left when she rushed from my home all those nights ago. Everything she felt for me couldn't have been clearer; a complete identical reflection of my feelings for her. I knew in that moment that, my life would never ever be the same again.

I moved forward until we were finally close enough to touch. I couldn't move, but thankfully Bella saved me by throwing herself into my arms. I instantly held her to me, breathing her in and letting her body mold into mine. Nothing else mattered in that moment; nothing but this.

"You're here," Bella whispered against my chest.

"Yes, I am…I hope that's alright. I couldn't stay away," I said just as softly. Although she seemed happy to see me, I was still apprehensive. There was no going back from here. If she didn't know nor had no clue as to how I felt about her before, there could be no doubt now. Would she accept what I wanted to offer her, or would, she run from me? Suddenly, Bella pulled away from me a bit and stared into my eyes. Her hands left a trail of fire as they moved up the sides of my neck until they rested on my cheeks.

"You have no idea how happy I am that you're here. That you came for me," she said in awe. The tension left my body instantly, and my hands gripped her waist in salvation.

"You have no idea how glad I am to hear that," I said as my head dropped forward until it rested again hers.

Will having her this close to me, always feel this way? I thought as I let her warmth seep into me.

But thanks to my friend, Emmett the Jolly Giant and his ill-timed rant, our embrace was interrupted. I could have strangled him with my bare hands as Bella pulled away from me to greet them. My thoughts were homicidal until Bella gripped my hand, and guided me forward to meet her friends and her father who had joined us. I reveled in her touch as I greeted each one of them; more than happy to put faces to the names of the people that Bella had told me about.

However, Seth's loud exclamation drew all of our attentions. When I turned my gaze in the direction of his stare, I was shocked to see Jacob Black standing a few feet away from us. While I understood that he was very familiar with the family, I was under the impression that he was considered to be a pariah due to his appalling treatment of Leah. So, in light of that, why would he feel the need to pay his respects? I had a bad feeling that he was up to something, but what I couldn't figure out.

Thinking back to the night of our meeting, Bella had no doubt delivered the beat down of the century. However, I had no idea the extent of Black's injuries until this very moment. I was even more so surprised by Charlie's version of the event in question, which was an outright lie. But I could understand to a certain degree why a man like Jacob black would find it necessary to come up with such an elaborate tale to save face. After all, the man was humongous, and police academy trained to defend his self. So, getting taken down by your petite ex-girlfriend was probably too much for even the biggest of egos to live with.

I found the whole situation quite comical until the moment that I saw the look of fear on Bella's face as she stared at him. The mirth within me sobered immediately, and was quickly replaced with an all-consuming need to defend my own. I immediately turned in his direction and saw the look of sheer rage on his face; and it was directed right at Bella at that moment. I immediately stepped forward, and pushed Bella behind me. It wasn't that I was being a Neanderthal; I was simply showing him literally, in no uncertain terms, with my eyes and actions that, in order for him to get to her, he'd have to go through me. I must have gotten my message across successfully, because he backed away immediately. Although I'm certain that it helped having Emmett by my side.

After a final good-bye, I was thankful that it took very little effort to convince Bella to ride with me in my car to the Clearwater home. Although it would be a short drive, it would still give us a few precious moments alone together. Considering the sheer mass of people who were paying their respects to the family, I had no idea when we would have another opportunity to be alone this day. That was probably for the best, as what came next once Bella knew that I was here, wasn't something that I'd truly thought about. So I was at a bit of a loss.

Then I recalled the advice that Rose and Alice gave me before I left LA, of letting things happen naturally, and I understood that they were right. This wasn't the day to unload my secrets on Bella. I would feel things out, and wait for the right opportunity to tell her everything. I wouldn't rush it.

A soft sigh within the car brought me out of my thoughts. When I turned my head in the direction of the sound, I noticed that Bella's face was turned in my direction, her left cheek rested against the headrest. She stared at me with a beautiful smile on her face that was infectious, as it made me smile at her in return. She actually wanted me here with her. I was still completely amazed by that fact. I quickly returned my attention to the road in front of me before I addressed her.

"How long have you been staring at me, Ms. Swan?" I asked playfully.

"Oh, I'm not sure…Probably since the moment that we got into the car. I know it's rude, and I'm sorry if it's making you feel uncomfortable. But I just still can't believe that you're really here." She said softly.

"It's not bothering me; I was just curious," I said, "although, I am a little jealous though."

"Why?" Bella asked in curiosity.

"Well, because I'm driving, I can't really return the favor the way that I want to." I said cheekily as I looked at her out of the corner of my eye. Bella's face turned spruce before her eyes rolled into the back of her head.

"God, Edward…" Bella said in a tense voice as she turned her face forward and dropped her head back against the seat. "You can't say things like that to me at a time like this." I was instantly filled with shame. Had I taken my flirting too far?

"I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to offend you, I," Bella quickly interrupted me.

"No, Edward! It's not like that. I wasn't offended. It's just that-it makes me want to do things that aren't exactly ladylike." And those softly spoken words from her lips were the shears that cut the ties to my control. The tires of my rental car screeched on the road as I violently swerved onto the shoulder of the highway.

"Edward!" Bella shouted in shock as she attempted to steady her body within the vehicle, while I stopped the car and put it in park before violently undoing my seat belt. My actions could have taken more than a few seconds.

"What the hell is going-," But I cut her off as I reached over and fisted the hair at the back of her head and pulled her mouth to mine. Bella's body was still for all of one second, before she began kissing me back with equal passion. A throaty moan escaped her as our tongues met, and suddenly I noticed her struggling with her own seatbelt. Of course, me being the gentleman whom I was, I quickly assisted her and released her from the annoying contraption. Within seconds, she climbed over the gear shift and straddled my lap.

Bella's long chocolate tresses instantly formed a dark curtain around us, filling my nostrils with her luscious scent. My hands gripped the back of her shoulders as I pulled her down so that she was pressed more firmly against my erection, as my mouth moved to her neck where I licked and sucked her soft skin.

"Mmm," I groaned as I registered her weight against my hardness.

"Oh, yes," Bella crooned as she gripped my hair in her fists, pulling my mouth more firmly against her neck. I growled as I pushed my hands between us to untie that belt on her jacket, but an unexpected knock at my window snapped me out of my passion-filled haze and stilled my hands. My head snapped to my left in irritation. I shouldn't have been surprised to see Emmett's smiling face peering through the fogged glass, but I was. Bella looked over at the same time, and her eyes widened when she realized the position that we were in.

"Shit!" Bella said in embarrassment as she clumsily climbed back to her side of the car, before I rolled down my window.

"Is there something that I can help you with, Sir Buff-A-lot?" I asked in irritation and Bella giggled quietly. This was the second time today that he'd cock-blocked me, and my homicidal thoughts returned full force.

"Why yes there is, my little Broccoli Stalk." My eyes widened in shock at the old jab, and I looked over at Bella, who clearly remembered the story of me being dyed green by that vindictive whore Kate. Bella had her hand over her mouth turning redder by the second. The shaking of her shoulders was a clear indication that she was she was laughing her ass off at my expense. It's almost unbelievable how I'm treated by my own loved ones. I get victimized by vermin, and I'm the one who will never be allowed to live it down. Where's the justice? Emmett smirked deviously as he continued.

"You see; we were following you guys, when suddenly you swerved off the fucking road. We were terrified that something was wrong, but then we quickly saw you guys sucking the lips off of each other and realized that you two are just two horny motherfuckers. Now considering the fact that we have absolutely no idea where we are going, we are all stuck here waiting and wondering how long this little make-out session you guys have going on is going to take. Oh and by the way, it's colder than Big Bear's left nut after a snow storm out here." Emmett said as he shivered. I supposed that I could see his point.

"Of course…I'm sorry about that, man. Just give us a moment." I said guiltily.

"No worries, bro…" Emmett said before, he quickly made his way back towards the truck. It was then that I noticed that they were parked a few feet in front of us staring into the car with extreme interest. All that could be heard within the car was our breathing as we adjusted our clothing.

"Well…That was awkward." I said as I looked at the steering wheel. "I'm sorry for attacking, you like that, but in all honesty I've been thinking about doing that for so long. I just couldn't help myself." Admitting these intense feelings to her was terrifying, but I just couldn't keep them to myself anymore.

"Don't apologize…I understand how you feel, and quite frankly, I wouldn't be opposed to you making what you did just now a consistent habit." Bella said longingly, and my eyes snapped to hers.

"Really?" I said in awe. It took every ounce of control to keep myself from pouncing on her again.

"Yes…I have the exact same urges when it comes to you; I just haven't had an incident yet. But Edward, as much as I want to just throw caution to the wind and give myself over to this…it wouldn't be wise. There are things that we need to talk about before we get too swept away." Bella said, and I felt as if a huge weight had been lifted knowing that she felt the same way that I did. Maybe we could rely on each to be strong?

"I know, and I completely agree with you one-hundred-percent. I just need you to understand that I've never felt this way about anyone before, and while I am insanely physically attracted to you, I'm not just looking for a fling. I want us to get to know each other with the hope of us possibly having more in the near future." I said shyly. Bella smiled brightly before moving towards me and pressing her lips to mine in a sweet and endearing kiss that made my toes curl. After a minute or so, we pulled away from each other enough to catch our breath.

"I suppose we've kept our friends waiting long enough. We should get going." I said reluctantly.

"Yes, I suppose so." Bella said softly as she ran her thumb over my bottom lip. "I just don't want this to end."

"It won't, I promise. I'm here for another week, and if it's not an imposition to you, I would like to spend as much of it with you as possible. Would that be alright?" I asked, and Bella smiled bashfully before responding.

"It's more than alright." I smiled largely before pressing another quick kiss to her lips. Being able to do that freely made me feel like I could fucking fly! I finally pulled all the way back, and restarted the car before pulling back onto the road. The rest of the ride, for the most part, was done so in silence, other than the occasional directions that Bella provided. Ten-minutes later, we were pulling onto the Clearwater property.

I quickly parked the car, before getting out and making my way to Bella's door which she had already opened. I extended my hand to help her from the vehicle. Once she was standing, I purposely kept ahold of her hand. I was pleasantly surprised when Bella tightened her grip, wordlessly letting me know that she was fine with this. Emmett quickly parked the truck, and my friends met us by my car.

"Oh, this is so beautiful," Alice said with a smile as she looked around at the surrounding beachfront area.

"Yes, it is," Bella said with a smile. "I love it here, but it's just too cold to really enjoy it this time of year."

The Clearwater house was a very nice size; it was two-stories and very well maintained. There was a stoned path that led down to the beach that was simple and elegant. Bella led us into the house, and there were lots of people already there, standing around chatting and laughing, including Bella's father Charlie. However, once we were noticed, an uncomfortable silence settled around the room. They all blatantly stared at us, and began speaking in hushed tones. You would think that we were aliens considering their behavior. We ignored them, and continued on.

Bella showed us around and introduced us to a few people that we passed along the way. She eventually guided us over to the buffet table which was filled with what looked like food of every kind. We all filled our plates and made ourselves comfortable in the living room. We sat around talking with each other in our own little bubble, continuing to ignore the stares we were being given. Once our plates were empty, we tossed our trash, and we followed Bella into the backyard. There was a beautiful awning that protected shielded us from the cold air and the rain that was to come. But there was also heat lamp that warmed the area enough for us to remove our coats. As a matter of fact, there were several people there playing cards at a table.

"Geez! Rude much!" Rosalie said. "Why the hell were they all staring at us like that? I felt like we were exhibitions in the fucking zoo!"

"Yeah seriously!" Alice said indignantly. "I felt as if I was a celebrity being stalked by the paparazzi in there!"

"I have no idea why they behaved that way, and I'm so sorry guys!" Bella said in embarrassment.

"Don't worry about it Bella, it wasn't your fault." I said in an attempt to soothe her.

"Bella!" A brown-haired woman called out exuberantly as she dragged a man with blonde hair over to us.

"This just keeps getting better and better." Bella muttered as she turned in the direction of the woman and plastered on a smile that didn't reach her eyes.

"Aren't you going to introduce us to your friends?" The woman said as she eyed us all, but her eyes were suddenly riveted to my hand as it held Bella's.

"Yes, right…Everyone; these two are old high school acquaintances of mine, Jessica Stanley and Michael Newton. Jessica and Mike, these are my friends from LA Rosalie and Emmett McCarty, Alice and Jasper Hale, and here to my right is Edward Cullen." Bella said with a strained smile. I could hear the slightest tenor of irritation in her voice as she addressed Jessica that peaked curiosity.

"Oh, silly Bella, we were much more than just mere acquaintances! We were practically joined at the hip in high school. It's very nice to meet you all." I quickly picked up on the fact that this woman seemed far from genuine; I just didn't understand her angle yet. Oddly enough, Mike appeared to be a bit melancholy as he mumbled a quick hello. I began to wonder what his problem was.

Mike…Hmm, where had I heard that name before?

"Likewise," Alice said pleasantly, but I could see her sizing Jessica up. I was glad that I wasn't the only one who picked up on this weird vibe.

"So, this is the new boyfriend eh? Wow! Bella, how do you always seem to attract such lookers?" Jessica said as she undressed me with her eyes. The smile instantly dropped from my face, before a scowl and a raised eyebrow took its place. Jessica visibly shrank under my stare. The last thing that I needed was for this person or Bella or that matter, to think that I was by any means interested in her. Bella didn't respond; she just continued to stare at Jessica like she had two heads.

"You know; it's so nice to see that you are finally out there dating again Bella. It's been such a long time since you, and Jake broke up. I've been very concerned about you."

"How would you know anything about my dating life, Jessica? I haven't seen or spoken to you in years." Bella said indignantly.

"Oh, I keep tabs on you through your father. I always ask about you and how you are." Jessica said proudly.

"And why is Bella's love life a point of interest to you Jessica?" A familiar voice said harshly, and it was then that I noticed that Leah was standing on Bella's left side.

"Come on Leah," Jessica said with a fake giggle, "I was just making conversation."

"Yes, I heard that and like I asked before, why do you care about who Bella sees or doesn't see?" Leah asked with a raised brow.

"Yes, I'm curious to know the answer to that question myself." Rosalie said as she moved to stand beside Leah and sassily crossed her arms over her chest. Jessica clearly had no idea the trouble she'd just brought upon herself. I didn't know Leah very well, but I knew Rosalie. The Queen Bee was making her appearance.

"What's your problem?" Jessica asked in irritation. Thankfully, there weren't many people around.

"My problem is that you seem to have made it your life's mission to hurl sneaky insults at my best friend every chance that you get, all over a man whom Bella has absolutely no interest in." Leah said before she walked forward until she was right in Jessica's astounded face.

"My how it must kill you to know that Mike wanted Bella, and barely spared you a glance unless you were by her side," Leah said evilly. "That you were and will always be nothing more than his consolation prize." Fuck! That was harsh!

"That's not true!" Jessica said as her face turned bright red as her eyes watered. "Mike, tell her!"

"Honey, please, you're making a scene." Mike said quietly. I found it very interesting that he never confirmed or denied Leah's accusation.

"Jessica, you need to get it through your head that, Bella has no interest in you or Mike for that matter." Leah said harshly. It was at that moment that I realized that this was the guy who serenaded Bella, and who Chief Swan chased from his property at gunpoint. As I recalled the details that Bella shared, it was a struggle for me to hold in my laughter. No wonder Mike looked so forlorn. The girl of this poor guy's dreams was completely unattainable, and holding another man's hand right in front of him; and he's stuck with this irritating woman.

"As you can see," Leah said as she gestured towards our joined hands, "Bella has more than moved on, so I suggest you do the same. Now Bella may be too nice to tell you straight out where to go, but fortunately for her, I'm not. So please kindly go and fuck yourself." Leah said with a brilliant smile. Jessica barely took a breath before Rose responded.

"You heard her," Rosalie added then gave Leah a high-five. Jessica turned and practically ran from the area, dragging Mike behind her.

"Oh, and thanks for coming today!" Leah called out happily to their retreating forms, while holding a cup in their direction mockingly.

"Ouch!" Alice said as she turned to face us with a large smile.

"Yeah, I'll say." Jasper said. Leah giggled and turned to face us, but the action caused her to stumble a bit. Bella immediately wrapped and arm around Leah to steady her, and it was then that I smelled the alcohol from where I was standing.

"Umm, Leah, how many of those have you had?" Bella asked in concern.

"Oh, maybe about four…I kind of lost count." Leah giggled.

"Right…I think that you've had enough for now." Bella said as she took the cup from her hand. Paul came walking over and pulled Leah against his chest.

"Is she okay?" he asked Bella.

"Yeah…She's just a little tipsy." Bella said.

"Can someone point me in the direction of what she's been having? I could sure use a stiff drink right now myself." Emmett said, and everyone nodded in agreement. Leah kissed Paul's chin lovingly before she turned towards Emmett.

"I'd be happy to, dear sir. Right this way." She said happily before looping her arm with Emmett's. However, Leah's eyes widened in surprise when she rubbed Emmett's massive arm with her small hand.

"Well, hello biceps!" Leah said flirtatiously and everyone, including Paul laughed in response.

"Now that I think about it, I don't think that it's a good idea that I be alone with such a hot piece of man candy; I may not be able to control myself. So why don't you come too," Leah said addressing an already laughing Rosalie, "my new ballsy blonde friend and protect your husband from me." With a shake of her head, Rose sashayed towards Leah and Emmett.

"Holy fuck, woman! You're just as fuck-hot as your husband is. Hmm, this could take a while." Leah said suggestively over her shoulder, throwing a wink towards a laughing Paul, and linked her right arm with Rosalie's; before leading them both towards the house.

"Babe, I think that you've had enough drink." Paul called out through his laughter, halting Leah's steps.

"Oh, I'm not going to have any more honey; I'm just going to get everyone else something." Leah said before continuing towards the house. Rosalie turned her head towards Paul and smiled.

"Don't worry, we have your back." Rose mouthed with a wink as she continued on to the house.

"Thank you!" Paul said in relief before he turned back towards us. "Today has been so hard on both her and Seth. They both pounced on the alcohol the moment that they got here. I didn't have the heart to stop them, but I don't want her falling-down drunk in front of all of these people either." Paul said.

"I know, but Leah is fine." Bella said. "By the way, she just told off Jessica Stanley brilliantly."

"Are you serious? Why?" Paul asked.

"Jessica was being Jessica, and Leah shut her down brutally. Believe me, I've seen Leah at her worst. She would not have been as articulate as she was just now if she were truly drunk." Paul blew out a relieved breath.

"That's relief. So, how are you all liking Forks so far?" Paul asked directing his attention to me, Alice, and Jasper.

"We absolutely adore it!" Alice said excitedly.

"It's great" Jasper said. "My Ally here is already investigating buying land here and building a vacation house for us."

"Understandable…It's a nice temporary, get away from the hustle and bustle of a large city isn't it?" Paul asked and we all nodded in agreement, before he turned his attention to me. "How are you liking it here, Edward? I heard that your parents are from here. What a small world."

"Yes, it is. I have to agree with my friends. This really is an ideal place to raise a family," I said and Paul nodded in agreement.

"Where are you staying while you are here?" Paul asked.

"My parents still own the house that they lived in which is about an hour or so away from here. I've been there for the past few days." I said, and Bella's eyes widened. It was then that I realized that I didn't get a chance to tell her when I arrived.

"That's great…How long will you be here?" At his question, I turned my head towards Bella, and stared into her warm eyes. She had been listening intently to every word.

"I'm on a two-week vacation, but I will be here in Forks for, however, long Bella's here. I'll leave when she does," I said and Bella smiled and rested her head against my shoulder. I pulled my hand from hers and wrapped my arm around her. When I turned my attention back to Paul, he was staring at us with a look of contemplation. He opened his mouth to speak, but he was interrupted when Leah, Emmett, and Rosalie returned holding a few drinks. They sat them on a small table right next to where we were standing.

"It was touch and go for a moment there folks, but you'll be pleased to know that we all managed to keep our clothes on and our hands to ourselves…Well for the most part," Emmett said as he playfully before he growled and pulled Leah by her waist against the side of his body. She laughed joyously as they both bumped the table, but managed to keep from spilling the drinks.

"What the fuck is this?" Paul said forcefully, and I immediately became worried that Emmett had taken the flirting too far. "You guys had your fun with one another and didn't include me! Not cool at all!" Paul said playfully, and my eyes widened in surprise at what I was witnessing.

"There, there, handsome," Rosalie said with an alluring smile that would harden the cock of any man on the receiving end of it. "There's still plenty of fun to be had."

"Is that so gorgeous?" Paul said, playing along.

"Definitely," Rose said in challenge.

"Well, get over here then," Paul said with a growl before pulling Rose to him as he made a show of acting as if he was going to nuzzle her neck. She playfully smacked his chest, but eventually wrapped her arms around his waist. His hand rested right above her ass. I began to wonder how many drinks her, and Emmett had in the house before coming back out here.

"Oh Rose baby, you better watch out. My man likes the rough stuff." Leah said before she slapped Rose on the ass making her squeal. My eyes nearly popped out of my head.

"Mmm, the rough stuff…Now you guys are speaking my language," Alice said as she rested her hands on her hips sassily.

"Come on over doll, there's plenty of me to go around." Paul said as he pulled Alice to his other side. Jasper looked over at me with an arched eyebrow and mouthed 'what the fuck?' I was just as blown away as he was. This whole scene seemed a little too familiar. Could it be possible that Leah and Paul were like us? And if they were, could it be that Bella….No! That couldn't be possible. Could it?

"Umm, I don't know about you, Ed, but I think that I want to get to their level and quickly." Jasper said as he walked over and grabbed a drink for him and Alice, before I grabbed two for myself and Bella. Paul looked over at Leah and dropped his arms from around Rosalie and Alice.

"Excuse me a moment ladies…Babe, you said that you were going to slow down," Paul said in concern when he noticed the cup in Leah's hand. Leah walked over to him.

"It's only Coca Cola baby. Rose thought that it would be a good idea for me to have something with caffeine in it. Besides, I don't need anything else to drink right now. I feel great." Leah said as she cuddled against Paul's chest.

"Mmm, yes, you do." Paul said as he kissed the top of her head, as he ran his hand over Leah's ass. Seth and Claire walked over and joined us; both of them holding cups of their own.

"Hey! I saw that ass grab! That's my sister bro! I don't need to see that shit!" Seth said.

"I'm sorry, but I can't help myself sometimes. Have you not seen how hot your sister's ass is?" Paul asked as he turned her towards him.

"Hell, I sure have, and I concur! There seems to be an abundance of hot asses out here," Emmett said. As I looked around, I couldn't have agreed more.

"Fuck yeah," Paul said before he high-fived both Emmett and Jasper, as we all laughed.

"Umm, no, I haven't noticed my own sister's ass, and wouldn't, it be kind of creepy if I did, hmm?" Seth said with a roll of his eyes. "Besides, I have my own great ass right here to focus on." Seth said as he pulled Claire closer. She slapped his chest with an indulgent smile.

"Now, I'd like to propose a toast," Seth said happily. It was clear that he was very tipsy as well.

"To Aunt Char…The greatest woman to have ever walked this earth! We'll never forget you mom!"

"Cheers!" We all called out as with touched our cups together and took a drink. From there, I shut down my overactive imagination and allowed myself to relax. The alcohol kept flowing as we all stood around and got to know each other. I found myself liking Leah, Paul, Seth, and Claire enormously. They were all so laid back and easy to talk to. Jasper and I each had an arm around Leah as we laughed at something that she said. Even Charlie eventually joined us, and for hours we hung out in the backyard, sharing memories of our pasts. Watching Bella interacting with my friends and hers was wonderful sight to see. I felt as though I was seeing another side to her as they laughed and joked around. This was where she belonged, by my side, in my life. Occasionally, Bella and I would lock eyes, and smile at one another, and it was evident to me that she felt the same way. This felt like home, and I didn't want it to end. Suddenly, I was struck with an idea.

"Hey, if you guys aren't doing anything tomorrow; I'd like to invite you all over for lunch at my house so that we can all relax and unwind at bit." I said, and everyone nodded in agreement.

"That sounds great! I was just telling Emmett about a new club in Port Angeles that just opened. Maybe after a day of relaxing, we could all, go dancing tomorrow night." Paul said.

"Yes!" Alice said loudly. "Edward's house is so big that, you can all bring your clothes with you, and we can all get ready there and head out together. Oh my God, I have so much planning to do!" Alice said as she hopped up and down like a child on Christmas. Leah ran over to her and hugged her, and they both began hopping together like school girls. Emmett's eyes widened suddenly before he spoke up.

"I will even take it a step further and get us a driver for the evening so that we can all drink to our heart's desire and not worry about getting home. This is going to be so fucking awesome!" Emmett said before he started typing away on his phone. I noticed that Charlie hadn't responded, so I walked over to him.

"Chief Swan," I said before he interrupted me.

"Edward, please call me Charlie." He said with a smile.

"Charlie, I hope that you can join us tomorrow."

"Well, I would love to, but I have plans with a…friend tomorrow." Charlie said as he nervously shifted from foot to foot while glancing over at Bella, who was watching Alice and Leah with amusement. A friend, huh? Could it be that Charlie has a date tomorrow? I hid my smile as I continued.

"Oh, well feel free to bring your friend with you. The more the merrier." Charlie gripped my shoulder and led me away from the group.

"I don't know son…I can tell that you know that it's a woman friend whom I'm spending time with, but I haven't had a chance to talk to Bella about her yet. I'm not sure how she will take the news that I'm seeing someone." Charlie said nervously.

"I can't imagine Bella being anything other than happy for you. Besides, since Bella will be there too, it might be a good opportunity for you to introduce the two of them. But I suggest that you talk to Bella and give her a little warning so that she isn't blindsided by the news." I suggested.

"Well, I think that you might be right. Thanks!" Charlie said before he slapped me on the shoulder. We both rejoined the group, and Charlie announced his leaving.

"So, I have to go and get ready to go to the station. It was very nice meeting all of you." Charlie said. I saw an opening, and I took it with gusto.

"So, will I be expecting you tomorrow, Charlie?" I asked.

"Yes, I will be there for lunch, but the club thing may be too much for me. Say, would it be okay if I brought a friend of mine along with me?" Charlie asked and we looked over at Bella to see her eyes widen in surprise.

"Absolutely! I look forward to seeing you both tomorrow." I said, and Charlie gave me a discreet wink. I could tell that he, and I would get along well.

"Dad, hold on a sec, I'll walk you out." Bella said before following Charlie into the house. The conversation continued to flow for the next ten-minutes before Bella returned with a huge smile on her face.

"So, it would seem that, my dad has been dating!" Bella said excitedly.

"Holy shit! The Chief has been getting laid!" Leah said.

"Yes! I know, isn't it great? He's been alone for so long…I'm so happy for him!" Bella gushed.

"So am I!" Leah said before raising her glass. "To Charlie!"

"To Charlie!" We all repeated. After hanging out a little longer, Alice thought that it would be best to leave.

"Well, since we have a lunch to get ready for, I think we should probably head out. We need to get to the store before it closes." Bella and I stared at each other longingly. I didn't want to leave her.

"Edward, why don't you stay and let Alice, and I take care of getting what we'll need for tomorrow." Rosalie said considerately.

"I couldn't let you, guys do that. After all this was my idea," I said.

"Dude, it's fine." Jasper said with a smirk. "You stay and hang out with Bella, and let us take care of the details. You know Alice will only take over anyway, so you might as well give her the reigns now before, there is any bloodshed." He was right. Alice would end up having her way, whether we wanted it or not.

"Alright…Thank you so much for doing this and for being here; I appreciate it more than you know." I said before hugging each one of them. I gave them the keys to the house and the security code. After saying good-bye to the rest of the gang, they all left, and we were left standing in the backyard. When I finally looked around, the house was almost empty of everyone other than the Leah's family who was cleaning up.

"I should help them," Bella said as she turned to go into the house, and I was right on her heels to help. But Leah stopped us.

"Bella let us handle this. There're enough of us to get this place in order, and honestly you've already done too much. Why don't you go and hang out with Edward and show him the shoreline." Leah said with a warm smile.

"Leah, I don't mind." Bella said.

"I know, and that's why I love you. Please, I insist that you go and take some time for yourself. In case I don't see you before you leave, it was very nice meeting you Edward. Thank you so much for being here today, and I look forward to seeing you tomorrow." Leah said before she walked over hugged me tightly.

"You're very welcome. I'll see you tomorrow." I said before Paul and Seth gave me quick hugs. We put our coats and gloves back on, before Bella took my hand and led me out of the back fence of the patio onto the sand. We strolled at a slow pace for a short while until we reached slope that led into the water. It was cold as hell, but the view before me was well worth it. Neither of us said a word, and I was thankful for the silence. I honestly didn't know what to say. Bella moved in front of me; the light peaked through the clouds making the ocean glisten at bit; creating a beautiful background and making her look even more angelic. If there was a more beautiful creature in the world, I've yet to see it.

"Who would have thought that such a horrible day, could end so wonderfully. Is it wrong to feel this way?" Bella asked, staring into my eyes.

"I honestly don't know. But from what I've heard about Charlotte Clearwater today, she wouldn't have wanted you all to be sad. She'd want you all to be happy."

"I know," Bella said before she turned and faced the water. "But it's hard to imagine life going on without her." I closed the distance until I was standing beside her, staring at the water as the sunlight slowly faded away.

"I'm sure most people who are in your family's position can't, especially now. But then one day will turn into two, then three, and so on and so on; and you'll suddenly realize that you're still living, and in that, the person that you love will live on in your heart and in your mind. They will always be with you." Bella turned to me and gazed at me in amazement.

"Well, that's at least what I heard my mother say to Alice when she lost her father. And it was true. One-day, Alice realized that for herself, and she was able to make peace with it. So will you and your family in time." I said before taking her hand in mine. After a few moments of silence, I sat down on the sand. Being that I kept ahold of her hand, Bella eventually joined me.

"How much time did you spend down here as a child?" I asked.

"More than I can recall." Bella said happily. "My dad and Jacob's dad were best friends, so Jacob and I used to play in the sand for hours on end. Those were great times." Bella said before continuing.

"You know, back then I couldn't even imagine the two of us not being friends, and now I can't stand the sight of him. It's funny how life works sometimes."

"I know. I found it hard to make friends when I was younger," I said as I stared at the water.

"How come?" Bella asked.

"Remember when I told you about my unusual sense about people?" I asked, and Bella nodded in response.

"Well, I had that same intuition as a child as well, and I didn't have the self-control to mask it back then. I didn't want to play with certain kids in my family's circle of friends because I knew that they along with their parents were full of shit. So most of the time I preferred to play alone."

"That's terrible Edward…So you had no one?" Bella asked sadly.

"No, I had a few friends, and they were the greatest." I said with a smile. "My father decided to have an employee appreciation barbeque when I was about seven years old. They all came in droves, and they brought their families with them. Much like their parents, the kids cliqued up and isolated themselves from certain kids. Because I was the boss' son, they were told by their parents to be nice to me, but I knew they weren't genuine. I noticed a boy sitting by himself intently reading an X-Men comic book which was one of my favorites. To the utter shock of my parents, I walked right over to the boy and asked him who his favorite character was, and we were instant friends. A few other boys and girls who were rejects as well joined in on the conversation, and I took them all to my room and showed them my comic book collection."

"From that point on, we were playmates, and I think that was when my parents understood my gift, because the parents turned out to be great people that could be trusted. However, in the real world, grown-up's change jobs and move away and that's how a lot of my friendships back then ended. But I learned what true friendship was, so when I met Jasper and Emmett, I knew that it was real and that our friendship would be for life." I said with a nostalgic smile.

"You are too good to be true…Do you know that?" Bella said in awe.

"No…No I'm-," I said before Bella cut me off.

"Amazing…and sweet." Bella said as I stood and turned away dusting the sand from my clothing. I couldn't accept those words from her, especially knowing who I really was.

"What's wrong?" Bella said from behind me. When I turned to face her, she was on her feet as well.

"I'm not any of those things Bella. It's all an illusion." I said as I shook my head.

"Yes, you are! How can you think otherwise?"

"Have you forgotten the things that I told you about myself the last time that we were together? That's just the tip of the iceberg. I'm not a good person, Bella."

"Edward you are the best person. So you do things professionally that are morally questionable, but don't we all at one point in our lives? We do what we have to do to survive. Why do you have all of this self-loathing?" Bella asked.

"I don't loath myself, Bella. It's quite the opposite. I'm proud of the reputation that I've built for myself even though I had to step on people to get here. That is what makes me foul. I'm not saying this because I hate myself; I'm simply stating a fact." I said.

"You're better than you give yourself credit for. A horrible person would not have shown up here to support me and my family." Bella said.

"But I did it for selfish reasons. I did it because I can't get you out of my mind; because I need to be near you."

"So you're telling me that if this would have been one of your friends or family, you wouldn't have done the exact same thing?" Her question silenced me, because I knew that I would have done the same thing for anyone whom I care about.

"Exactly!" Bella said triumphantly. "We as human beings are not all good, and we're not all bad either. The people that we care about see what we do, and they know who we are. Anything else that we choose to do that doesn't hurt anyone isn't their business." Bella said passionately. I stared at her, and I could see that she too had her own demons.

"You're right. I just don't want to disappointment you when you realize that I'm not the night in shining armor that you think I am. I thought perhaps if I prepared you for the worst, then I wouldn't have too far to fall when you know who I am."

"I'm not perfect either Edward, but if you promise to listen without judging me when the time comes, then I will promise to do the same. Do we have a deal?" Bella said as she held her hand out for me to shake. I took her hand and shook it.

"I promise…" I said before I pulled her to me and hugged her. A cool breeze literally cut through me and Bella visibly shivered. Deciding that hypothermia wasn't worth the awesome view, we quickly headed back to the house, to where my car was parked.

"So," I trailed off.

"So," Bella said in return. I felt like teenage boy standing in front of a girl that I liked, without the first idea as to what to do.

"I know that I said this before, but I'm so glad that you came. It means more to me than you know." I smiled and pulled her to me, wrapping my arms around her.

"Don't mention it. I wanted to be here with you. If there is anything that they need, please let me know." I said.

"I will," Bella said as I kissed the top of her head. When Bella looked up at me, I pressed kisses to her forehead and across her cheeks, which were freezing. She needed to get inside before she froze to death.

"It's cold; you should get-" But I was cut off as Bella pulled my face to hers in a fierce kiss. I was powerless to stop her, and returned her kiss with enthusiasm. Breathing became a necessity and we pulled back from each other, frantically drawing in air.

"Now, we're even." Bella said with a sultry smile.

"I suppose so. Go inside and get warm. I'll see you tomorrow. I will text you the address to my house, so turn your cell phone on."

"Okay, goodnight Edward."

"Goodnight, love," I said without thinking. Not giving myself a chance to see her response, I quickly jumped into my car and turned it on. Bella backed away as I pulled onto the road, and I watched her in the rearview until I turned down the winding road. Tomorrow couldn't come fast enough…

End Note: Sigh…I just love these two. Next chapter will be the lunch at Edward's place. I think that we need a little fun after the heaviness of the last couple of chapters. Hopefully, I will be able to give you two chapters the next time that I update, but that will depend on whether or not I have the time. They promised not to judge one another, will that be the case when the time comes? Let me know what you think!