THE OTHER WOMAN


DISCLAIMER: STEPHENIE MEYER OWNS IT ALL.


October 02, 2015


EDWARD


My phone flashes with Maria's name and I glance at Matt for a fraction of a second. I'm sure it's Vanessa calling again. I hold up a finger towards my laptop screen and Jasper stops talking. He is on a Facetime call to continue our phone conversation about the budget.

"Jasper, give me a minute."

"Sure, go ahead."

I answer the call.

"Good evening, ma'am. How are you?" I ask politely and smile to myself.

"I'm good, Mr. Edward. Did you speak to my daddy?" Vanessa asks straight away.

I look over at Matt.

"Not yet. But I will, I promise."

"Double promise?"

I chuckle. "Yes, double promise."

"I know he said yes to you."

"I won't take no for an answer. I'll try my best."

"Tell daddy I want boy-dog."

I laugh and run a hand through my hair. "Whatever you want, sweetheart."

"Okay, bye! Mommy says I have to sleep 'cause tomorrow is my birthday and I get new presents and I become a big girl!"

"I'm sure she is right. Good night, darling."

"Good night!"

I end the call and shake my head. I look at Jasper and nod.

"Hey, go on."

"Who was that? Bella?"

"No. Bella is out of town this weekend. She was invited to a wedding."

"Oh, that's nice."

"Yep," I say softly and run a hand through my hair. "It's going to be a long weekend. Plus, you and Alex aren't going to be there on Monday for the meeting. Stupid shits." I mutter the latter part under my breath.

Jasper laughs and gives a wry smile. "We will be on a video conference that day."

"Yeah, whatever. I have my team here. Kate, Dave, Kyle and the rest."

"I'm glad Kate's going to be there."

I frown at him. "I know you've had a crush on her since college but don't even try to date her. I'll have both of you fired." I snap and he scowls.

"Oh, come on! Like you never hooked up with her!"

I shake my head. "Never. We went out on a couple of dates in college because everyone pressured us to. We barely kissed and burst out laughing. It was like kissing my cousin." I shudder at the memory of that night.

Jasper laughs. "Alright, does Bella know about this?"

"Unfortunately, yes. She happened to ask me about it because I have been close with Kate since college."

"She wasn't jealous or anything?"

"She was surprised that we hadn't. Kate is attractive but for me, she doesn't hold a candle to my girl. No offence."

"Maybe you are biased." I roll my eyes.

"Shall we get back to work?"

"Yes, please."


The home phone rings at my desk and I answer it.

"Mr. Cullen, dinner is ready."

"Can you bring it to my study, Mrs. Cope?"

"Sure."

"Thank you."

I put the receiver down and stare at the door in front of me. Bella and I had sex against that door last week. I chuckle and my eyes go over to the closet where I still have that sex swing. I run a hand through my hair and try to shake off thoughts of her.

Bella is all I can think about. It's crazy how much I miss her. Maybe I should make plans to go out for drinks with Emmett tomorrow night and try to get my mind off everything.

I concentrate on my presentation and try to read the figures that are staring back at me. Ugh, for the first time, I don't feel like working. Maybe I need some food in my system.

Just then, there is a knock on the door and I sigh with relief when Mrs. Cope enters the room with a tray in her hands. I put my laptop away, and she puts a steaming hot plate of chicken parmesan with a salad in front of me. It's one of my favorite dishes of hers. She knows by the mood I am in what to make. She is the best.

I grin at her and she ruffles my hair before walking over to the mini-fridge at the end of the room.

"Third one from the left." I say and hear the door closing.

Mrs. Cope brings over a glass of chilled white wine and I thank her as she leaves. I take a sip of the wine and sigh softly. Everything's perfect and the only person missing is Bella. I dig in and moan when the flavors burst into my mouth. The cheese and spices melt on my tongue and I smile.

I resume my work and a couple of minutes later, my phone rings. It's Bella. I answer it instantly.

"Hi, baby." I say softly and hear her sigh on the other line.

"Hey, I miss you."

"I miss you too, my love. Are you in Forks?"

"Yes, we just drove past my old house. It looks dirty and dingy now. I wanted to check it out but I… couldn't."

"It's okay, Bella. I know it must be difficult for you. Where are you staying?"

"At Angela's place. Her parents are out of town so she has an extra room to spare for me."

"That's good. When was the last time you went to Forks?"

"Um, I visit my mother's grave on her birthday every year but I haven't been in town for the past seven to eight years."

"Oh Bella, why didn't you tell me about this? I would've accompanied you."

"No, honey. It's okay. I can be strong. I just missed you that's all."

"It's been not more than four hours and you miss me already?" She laughs on the other line.

"Like you don't. I just wanted to check to see if you had dinner."

"I am as we speak."

"It's so late, sweetheart."

"I had a conference call with Kate and Dave, and then I had some work to finish. I asked Mrs. Cope to make late dinner, and it's totally worth it." I say and pop a piece of chicken in my mouth. I chew on it and savor the juices.

"Really?"

"Yes, it's juicy and wet. Just how I like it." I murmur huskily and smile.

I hear her sharp intake of breath on the other line. "I know." Her voice trembles making me chuckle.

"Yes you do. Did you reach her place yet?"

"Yes, but I, uh…" She hesitates and I frown.

"What is it, love?"

"Angela and I sat in the front and I drove us here." She blurts out and I snort.

"I know. Demetri called me when you forced him to sit in the back."

"I think he is very angry with me."

"He must be. It's raining heavily, and you decided to drive at night time."

"I am a good driver." She defends herself.

"I know but I trust Demetri to drive you home safely when there is a chance that you can talk and get distracted with your friend at your side."

"I'm sorry," She mumbles, and lets out a deep breath. "It's raining hard tonight. I hope I can catch some sleep."

"Hey, call me if you can't sleep. And if you want me to, I'll be there in three hours to rescue you."

She giggles, making me smile. "Thank you, honey. I'll keep that in mind."

"Are you going to have dinner now?"

"We are going to watch movies and we picked up pizzas and ice-cream on our way here."

"Then I shouldn't keep you from it. Stay warm, bye love."

"Bye, I love you."

"I love you too, baby." I murmur and hang up.

I scroll through my emails and frown when I don't see Bree's email. She was supposed to send the figures by today. What the fuck is she doing?

I call Kate.

"Hey, Cullen. What's up?"

"Kate, did you get the final numbers from Bree?"

"Yep, she sent them at five."

"Why wasn't I told?"

"Take a chill pill, Edward. Why do you worry so much?"

I sigh and shake my head. "Sorry. I just can't wait for Monday to be over with."

"The meeting will go fine. But, I think you should worry about the VP hitting on you."

I frown. "What?"

"Sasha Powell. She is Aro Volturi's niece and the Vice-President of the company."

"I didn't know she was his niece." Kate laughs on the other line.

"I knew that. You should watch out for her. Or get Bella to attend the meeting! It'll be so much fun!" She says gleefully and I roll my eyes.

"Kate, that's ridiculous. Plus, Bella isn't coming back until Tuesday." I mumble the latter part sadly.

"Oh, listen to you all sad. It's nice to see you act like a sappy little shit."

"Yeah, whatever. Forward me the reports that Bree sent."

"Okay."

"Great."

"Edward, talk to Irina regarding how to handle the press concerning the takeover. It's going to create a lot of news; especially about you. The media has been all over the Denalis ever since Tanya was seen leaving Alistair Raymond's house early this morning. We are going to have their CINIC group project with us. You've got to be careful."

"And I only have two days to get over all the crap."

"Hey, we're here to help."

"I'm glad you are. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Yes, good night."

"Night, Kate."

I make quick work of finishing my dinner and rise to my feet. I pull back the sleeves of my long t-shirt and wheel my mounting board out of the study. I carry it to my bedroom and situate it facing my bed. I push the coffee table towards the bed and put my supplies on it.

"We're going to have fun tonight." I nod towards the board that holds the Maitso Towers design.

I call Matt.

"Matt, get me all the supplies from the store room; the extra drawing board with drafting paper, technical pens, and the copies of the ten attachments that I forwarded you. I need them in the exact order that I sent them. Keep the axonometric projections on top. I need everything stat."

"Yes, Mr. Cullen."

I place my phone on silent and hope Bella doesn't call me in the middle of the night from a nightmare. She needs a peaceful night's rest. I toss my phone on the bed and find Mrs. Cope peeking inside from the doorway.

"Uh, Mrs. Cope?"

"Wine and espresso machine?" She asks with a knowing look. I smile and nod.

I grab my pencil and eraser and mark the changes I wish to make. I can hear Mrs. Cope working on the machine and she goes to my study to get a bottle of wine. I hold the pencil in my mouth and read the last email Dave sent to me.

"Nightstand," I mutter when I see her placing the wine glass on the coffee table. She whispers an apology and puts the glass down within my reach. "Go to bed, I won't need anything else tonight."

"I can stay—"

"Bed." I frown at her and she leaves as fast as she can.

Matt walks in with the supplies I need and I walk over to help him with them. I wheel the second mounting board next to the first one and Matt opens the supplies for me. He exits the room to get the hard copies and I open my laptop to check the saved copy on the CAD software.

Ten minutes later, he puts the copies on the bed and I stand up.

"Any plans for Sunday?" I ask casually as I note down the dimensions on the tracing paper. I grab my scale and hold it at a base angle.

"Yes, Mr. Cullen. Maria and I are throwing a birthday party for Vanessa." He says stiffly and I smile, drawing a light trace of line on the elevation.

"I think Ness wants to celebrate her birthday with just Maria and you."

"I know but she will be distracted if her friends are around and she will stop bugging us about the extravagant gift she wants."

"I had a talk with the little miss last week. She wants a pet, I hear."

Matt stifles a groan. "How did I not see that coming? I'm sorry that she called you. We have tried our best to refuse her."

"Not working?"

"She wants a rare one."

"The Samoyed, yes."

"It costs around $4,000 to $6,000." He mutters disapprovingly.

"Well you know, I have a couple of contacts and I can arrange to get her one on short notice," I meet his gaze and find him staring at me in shock. "You can check with Maria and let me know."

"Really?"

"Yes."

"By when?"

I laugh. "He'll be delivered at your doorstep tomorrow morning, first thing," He stares at me with his mouth hanging open. "It's alright, Matt. And she wants a male, at least that's what she told me."

"We'll pay—"

I shake my head. "That's alright; we can talk about it later. Hand me the third pen," I mutter and he passes it to me. I put the scale away and sigh. "There is an envelope in my nightstand drawer. Open it."

I wheel the board away, stand back and run a hand through my hair as I stare at it. I bite my bottom lip and wonder what the hell needs to be changed. I'm going to need to check all the details and then make the changes before getting started on the axonometric projections.

I look over at Matt and find him staring at the brochure with a smile on his face. I clear my throat and he gazes at me. I can tell he looks excited.

"It's a weekend getaway for the three of you. Victoria already made the arrangements and you just have to drive there tomorrow. Iron Springs Resort, it's got great reviews. And it's pet-friendly."

"Thank you, Mr. Cullen. This really means a lot. I have—"

"It's okay, Matt. I really think you need to have fun instead of minding children at a party. You can report back on Monday afternoon. Go now."

"But—"

"Felix is going to cover for you."

"Good night, sir. If any problems occur, I'll be here as soon as I can."

"Okay, have a great weekend." I nod and he smiles.

He leaves the room and shuts the door with a soft click. I sit on the bed around the mess of pens and papers and mounting boards.

Oh, Bella. I miss you so much.


October 03, 2015


I check the radio alarm and it's 02:45 am. Wow, where did the time go? I run a hand through my hair and find one of the documents on the other end of the bed. I sigh and walk over to take it. I frown when I see something flash on my mobile screen. I grab my phone and check the home screen to see five recent missed calls from Bella. Oh fuck.

I am about to call her phone but she calls me again. I answer the incoming call and press the phone against my ear, hoping to hear her sweet voice.

"Bella?"

"Edward, hi it's Angela. I've been trying to call you for the last fifteen minutes but you weren't answering." Her voice sounds frantic and that scares me.

"What's wrong, Angela?" I put all my tools away and sit on the bed.

"It's Bella. She woke up screaming from a horrible nightmare. I'm just panicking here and you weren't answering your phone. I think—I think this is happening because we are in Forks. I heard her yelling across the hall and then she started to cry and couldn't breathe and now… I can't." She pants as she finishes rambling.

"First, take a deep breath for me. Calm down," I say in a gentle voice and hear her deep breaths. "Thank you for calling me. Is Bella near you?"

"Yes."

"Please, give her the phone."

There is fumbling on the other line and then I recognize Bella's presence.

"Bella?"

"Edward!" She gasps through her tears and my heart breaks hearing her strained voice.

"Hush, baby. Calm down. Please stop crying for me. Is there water near you?"

"Y-Yes."

"Drink some water, love."

A couple of seconds later, I hear her again.

"Are you better now, baby? What happened? Talk to me." I say soothingly and she sniffles.

"I had a nightmare, it felt so real." She cries and I run a hand through my hair.

"Please don't cry, love. If you want, I can come over. I can be there in three hours."

"No! No, don't come here. I'm sorry you had to wake up this late."

"You didn't. I was up anyway. Tell me about your dream."

"It was about Riley."

"You are safe wherever you go, I promise."

"I trust you."

"Where's Demetri?"

"He is standing at the door. Why weren't you answering your phone?"

"It was on silent."

"Oh."

I sigh and take a sip of wine. "Are you fine now?"

"Yes, I'm good."

"Baby, stay on the line with me but let Angela and Demetri go. It's very late."

"You're right," A couple of seconds later, I hear her again. "Demetri, I'm good. Thank you… Yes, please go back to bed. Thank you."

"I'm glad he is there." I mutter to myself.

"I had no idea Angela would call you but I'm glad that she did."

"Me too."

"I'm sorry again that you had to wake up." She whispers sadly.

"I haven't slept."

"What?!" I wince a little at her shrill tone. "What the hell are you doing?"

"I'm working on the final touches for the Towers. I need to check the project files and then I'll go to sleep, I promise."

"Go to bed right now, Edward Cullen." Her voice is firm and demanding.

"Baby, just—"

"Go. To. Bed." She mutters angrily.

"Just five more minutes, Bella."

"Edward, I'm so, so mad at you right now. You aren't going to bed when it's time to sleep and you are probably drinking a lot of wine! Plus, you have to wake up early to go to work!" Her voice is exasperated and I sigh.

"There is a lot of work to be done, Bella. It's not my choice to stay up."

"Please, please, please," Her voice breaks and I quickly start gathering all the things and start putting them away. "Get some sleep. I don't want you tired and restless tomorrow. Please, sweetheart."

"Okay, okay. I'm putting everything away," I say softly and get under the covers. I take off my t-shirt and toss it on the nightstand. "Everything is put away, and I'm in bed."

I turn off the lights and the room turns lonely without my girl around.

"Thank you."

"I miss you." I whisper and stare at the empty side of bed.

"I miss you too and I'm not even there to put you to bed when you work like crazy. It's almost three in the morning, Edward."

"I'm sorry. I planned to stop working around midnight but I lost track of time and… sorry." I feel bad for making her worry about me.

"I want you to text me every night before you go to bed. Am I clear, Edward?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"I love you."

"I love you, too." I say back and she sighs on the other line.

"I wish you were here."

"Me too."

"I guess we're spending the night apart from each other after almost two weeks of sleeping together."

"Yes, love. But, I want you to go to sleep now. You must have plans for tomorrow."

"Spa plans, Mr. Cullen."

I chuckle. "That sounds like fun."

"Yeah," I can hear her yawning. "I'm getting sleepy but I want to talk to you."

"Call me when you wake up. We'll talk then, alright?"

"Okay, good night."

"Sweet dreams, baby. Bye."

I end the call and put the phone on the nightstand. I close my eyes and take a deep breath. If only she were here. It's easier to sleep with Bella close to me.

Only three more days to go.


"Felix, make a stop at the bookstore across from the Pacific."

"Yes, Mr. Cullen."

I sigh and close my eyes. I take a deep breath and run a hand through my hair. I need to ask Mr. Wallis to recruit a few people to run the bookstore. God, I'm exhausted. I only had four hours of sleep. I bet my girlfriend is still sleeping. But, she needs her beauty sleep for tomorrow.

"Mr. Cullen, we're here."

"Thank you."

I open my eyes and gaze outside to find a massive array of boxes lined up at the entrance of the store. I step out of the car and button up my jacket. I frown when I see Tia standing at the entrance. Why is she here so early in the morning?

I notice two women labelling the boxes according to their genres. I'm pretty sure that Bella would've been overwhelmed if she saw her store being emptied out. She has a lot of memories here. God, I miss her.

Tia catches my eye and walks over to me.

"Good morning, Mr. Cullen."

"Morning, Ms. Gabrielle. I'm surprised to see you here. I thought your work from next week needed attention." I say curiously and her cheeks turn pink.

"I wanted to make sure, the crew is clear about what needs to stay back and what doesn't. Plus, after next week, we need to decide when the demolition and reconstruction will begin."

"Right. Well, Volturi won't be taking care of this one. They've got plenty of our big projects to handle. I'm positive we'll work with their subsidiary; the Tremblay group. They are masters at completing small-scale projects."

"I've heard great things about them."

"We'll have to wait until Monday for that. I believe it's a day off for everyone but the directors."

"Yes, sir. But I wanted to make sure things happen in order here."

"That's good." I smile and she smiles back shyly.

Thank god Kyle hired a capable person for this project.

"I've heard that the smallest of details are the most important part of architecture. It feels powerful to create art, brick by brick," I frown at her and she shrugs. "You said it in your speech last year at the Annual Company Dinner."

I laugh. "Right. I guess I did."

"My husband loved your speech. Everyone at the company didn't believe that you were going to leave the headquarters and move here."

"Me neither," I whisper and chuckle. "I don't think I'll be leaving anytime soon. Not unless I can convince my girlfriend to move to Chicago. That'll take at least a couple of years." There is a good chance that will never happen.

I continue. "Anyway, I guess I don't have to worry about the store if you are here. I have a meeting in thirty minutes. If you'll excuse me." I nod and she nods back.

"Sure, sir."

"Have a great weekend." I wish her and make my way back to the car. I sit inside and sigh with relief that Tia is here to take care of my girl's bookstore.

That's one less problem to deal with.


I hear my phone ringing around noon and eight pairs of eyes turn to me. Dave stops mid-word and I sigh impatiently as I wait for Julie to get me my phone because I know it's Bella calling me. Why the fuck is she taking so long?!

I snap my head to the glass doors and Gina nervously walks in with my phone in her hand. There is a scowl on her face as she approaches me. I angrily stand up and snatch the phone from her hands.

"Get out!" I yell and she scurries out of the room as fast as she can.

The call ends and I instantly dial her number. She answers on the first ring.

"Hey," Her voice sounds groggy. I chuckle. It's great that she is well rested. The nightmare must have tired her out. "Morning, handsome."

"Good afternoon, beautiful." I say and there is a beat of silence from her side before she bursts of laughing. My heart soars hearing her sweet laughter.

"I didn't see the time. I thought it was nine or ten." She says and snorts.

"Oh baby, it's time for lunch."

"Yes, I can see that."

"Is it still raining in Forks?"

"Yes," I can practically see her pouting. "The weather is supposed to be clear up tomorrow, and the wedding is indoors. So it's not a problem."

"Hmm, excited about your day?"

"Yes! But, there isn't much to do in Forks so we're going to Port Angeles. Where are you?"

"I'm in the middle of a lunch meeting."

I sit back at the head of the table and run a hand through my hair.

"Oh god, I always end up calling you when you are in a meeting. I'm sorry, we'll talk later honey."

"Have lunch, I'll give you a call later. Will that do?" I whisper softly.

"Yes, when does your meeting finish?"

I check my watch. "In an hour or two."

"Okay bye, sweetie! Have fun at the meeting!" I laugh and find everyone's eyes on me.

"I will, baby. I love you. Bye."

"Love you, too!"

I set my phone aside and stare at Dave who is gaping at me. Why is he looking at me like that? I clear my throat and he snaps out of his reverie.

"Are we waiting for anyone else?" I ask with a sarcastic smile and he smiles nervously and shakes his head.

And the meeting resumes.

I still find a couple of my team members frequently glancing at me because I just can't wipe the smile off my face. I sigh and stare at the lock screen of my phone that is a picture of Bella that I took last week.

I came home from work last Tuesday and found her standing on the balcony with a gorgeous smile on her face. She looks carefree and radiant in the picture. She is beautiful. I take my mind off my girlfriend and focus on Dave who is speaking. I don't remember the last time I zoned out during a meeting.

No wonder they keep looking at me.


Hi, Mr. Cullen. Where are you?

B x

I'm out, having drinks with Emmett.

E xx

That sounds like fun. I'm sitting with my friends who are embarrassing me.

B x

Why is that? Are they asking you to sing?

E xx

Ha, ha. But, no. They seem very curious about my sex life.

B x

Sex life, huh? Why are you embarrassed? Is your boyfriend bad in bed?

E xx

He is the best! But, I'd rather keep my sex life private.

B xx

Women can never keep secrets.

E x

I know that. So before I could spill anything, I suggested that we watch a movie.

B xx

Reminds me of the time you and I watched movies at your apartment.

E xx

I know. And we're watching Pretty Woman. That makes me miss you even more.

B xx

I miss you too, love. Just come back fast. I really need you right now.

E

What happened, baby? Call me if there is something important to talk about.

B xo

It's about work.

E

There are people who work for you, honey. Don't stress yourself out.

B

I can't help it.

E

Okay, I need you to have less drinks and go back home. You need to relax tomorrow and keep your mind off things before the meeting on Monday. Will you do that for me?

B xxx

Yes, I promise. Emmett is yelling me to put the phone away. I'll give you a call later. Bye, for now.

E xo

I'll wait for your call! ILY. Have fun.

B

I love you too, Bella.

E xx

"Are you done with your sappy shit?" Emmett snaps and I put my phone away. I nod at him and he continues glaring at me. I roll my eyes. I grab my glass and finish off the rest of my drink. He eyes me carefully as I set the glass down.

"Edward, are you okay?"

"I have a major takeover meeting on Monday, some fucking lunatic is running after my girlfriend and my ex-girlfriend's father is trying to file a lawsuit against my father. Yes, I'm just fucking fine." I mutter and pour more scotch in my glass.

"Edward, make that your last one." He points to the glass and I roll my eyes.

"Yes, I told Bella that I wouldn't drink much. She has ordered me to call her before I go to bed."

"Not drink much?" He asks dryly and eyes the half-empty bottle. "Well, she wouldn't know you had set up camp here two hours ago."

"Fuck you, Emmett. You are drinking too." I motion to his gin and tonic.

"This is way better suited than that whiskey of yours. Rosalie will kick me out of bed if I go home stinking of bourbon."

"I don't have a problem," I shrug. "Bella isn't home."

"You behave like a married couple sometimes."

I grin. "I like the sound of that."

"You aren't proposing to her any time soon, are you?"

"I don't know, maybe." I mumble and chug more of my drink.

"Oh fuck, you can't do that!"

"Jeez Em, I'm not. Relax. I'm not irrational enough to get married four months after meeting her. Even if I would love to and it would feel right, I think we should wait."

"Hell, yes. Don't make any rash decisions. I waited two years before I proposed to Rose."

"Your Rose is a completely different case altogether. Who takes two years to plan a fucking wedding?"

"She wanted a perfect wedding."

"Bella would never do that. Two years, ugh," I shake my head. "I would run off to Vegas with her before I would endure that."

"Yeah, right. Every girl wants a perfect wedding and all that shit. Bella would want some time to plan also."

"I don't think perfect weddings cost $2 million like yours did." I mutter to myself and finish my drink. Emmett passes me a plate of beef briskets and my stomach recoils just looking at it.

"Eat. You haven't had any food in your system since we got here."

"No."

"Eat," He points to the food and I start eating grumpily. "You aren't much help when you are drunk."

"I'm not drunk. I can handle myself. So what if I have a couple of drinks sometimes? Give me a fucking break."

"Bella is going to be so mad at you," He murmurs as he watches me toss more whiskey into my system. "Hard liquor and stress at work is a dangerous combination for you, Edward."

"You say that every time."

I can feel my ears ringing from the music blaring in the nightclub and the alcohol churning in my stomach. I want to stop drinking but I can't help myself.

"So, Rosalie and I consulted a friend of dad's about taking fertility tests," I still my movements. My shocked eyes meet his serious blue ones. "What? Is there a problem?"

"No, nothing," I mumble and pour whiskey in my glass. I'm going to need alcohol to hear about this. "What happened?"

"We get the results on Monday. I hope nothing is wrong."

"I hope so too," I murmur honestly and shake my head. Why hasn't Rosalie told Emmett yet? "How does Rosalie feel about this?"

"She was very reluctant. We had a lot of arguments over it but then she finally gave in. It's a great feeling when you win an argument with your wife."

I chuckle dryly. "When did you take the tests?"

"Yesterday. Rose and I had decided to have children during the first year of our marriage," I sputter the drink out from my mouth. "Edward, put the fucking glass away! You're not able to handle yourself!" Emmett shouts and I cough a little. I drink some water.

"It's not because of the drink, it's what you said. First year?" I confirm and he nods. I run my index finger along my bottom lip and try to count back. "When did you get married?"

"May."

"Hmm, May. Perfect." I murmur and shake my head and take a sip of my whiskey.

"Perfect? What?"

"Nothing, I mean then why did you… uh, stop?"

"Rose wanted to wait. She said that we should have time to ourselves first," I nod and drum my fingers on the table in front of me. "Plus, every time she took a pregnancy test, it was negative and she would cry in the bathroom. It was horrible."

"Negative, huh? Tough, really."

"Yeah," He clears his throat. "So, we decided that now is a good time to have a baby but we are having no luck getting pregnant."

"Of course you aren't." I mutter to myself and pour the rest of the whiskey in my glass.

"Edward, the bottle is almost empty. You're going crazy."

"Shh, just keep talking," I say softly and down more alcohol. How can someone be so horrible?! She lied to his fucking face! "So, you want boy or girl?"

He laughs and his shoulders relax. "A boy, perhaps. It would be cool to teach him how to play football and all the typical shit dads do."

"Yep, you would get right into that role. But, you will have to wait for the results." I say with a serious expression and he frowns and narrowly stares at me.

"What do you mean, Cullen?"

"It might be tough, you know. With Rosalie and everything." I murmur and my breathing turns shallow. I empty my glass and refill it with more alcohol.

"What are you talking about? I've wanted to ask you ever since we met at mom and dads on Monday. What were you and Rose talking about?"

"Oh, just something about her," I mutter and continue drinking. I'm lying to my brother. I have to tell him. I have to tell him! But, I gave Rosalie three months.

I can't hold it in any longer. It's been six years.

"What? Has she not told me something? Edward, what is it?"

"Just about you and her and the baby." I whisper and resist the urge to drink.

I don't want to get drunk; I might say or do something I might regret. Or am I drunk? I don't think I am.

"What? What do you mean?"

"Nothing, I'm gonna let Rosalie tell you about this shit." I slur my words and lean my head against the back of the recliner. Why is the fucking room spinning?

"Is it about me?"

I laugh. "Is it about you? Yes, it's about you, Emmett! Don't you know that? You're my brother. I hate Rosalie. I hate her so fucking much! You shouldn't have married her. You never should have married her. She was the worst choice you could have made for a wife." I shake my head.

"Edward, you've had too much to drink. Let me take you home."

"I have my damn driver. You should go back to your fucking wife! See if she has anybody hidden under the bed. Like Royce! He is a drunk little shit! I still can't fucking believe what she saw in him!"

"What? Who is Royce?"

"I told your cheating wife that I was going to give her three months to tell you," I show him three fingers. "I have given her three months, Em. If she doesn't tell you by the end of three months, come to me," I chuckle. "I'll tell you everything."

"Edward, let me put you in the car, come on."

"No! I don't want to go home! Bella isn't at home!" I frown at him and sigh softly. "I miss her a lot." I whisper.

"Yes, let me take you home or she'll be worried about you. You have to call her, don't you?"

"I do? Fuck, my head hurts." I mutter and reach for my glass.

"Edward, don't."

"Last drink, I promise."

Emmett sighs, giving in. "Fine. Just one."


October 04, 2015


I hear voices around me; talking and whispering. I feel a warm hand caressing my face; tracing my eyes, my nose and lingering on my lips. I let out a deep sigh. I can smell the familiar scent of strawberries around me. Why does it feel so familiar? Is it Bella? Where am I?

My brain is unable to register what happened after I drank. I drank a lot. Ugh, I feel useless. There is pressure on my stomach because I'm sleeping on it. But, something else feels weird too. I taste the fuzzy dryness in my mouth, almost stale and disgusting with a hint of blueberries. Maybe because I ate gum on my way home.

I feel a pair of warm hands against my legs which make me frown. Who is that? They feel funny against my legs and suddenly the cold air hits me. But soon after, my legs are warm again. I hear a pair of footsteps approaching but I'm nearly dead with fatigue right now.

"What time did he come back home?" A soft voice asks and I hear a subtle throat clear.

"Around two-thirty. Felix brought him in."

"I couldn't believe my ears when you called and told me what happened."

"Edward never drinks so much, Bella."

"I know," I feel a soft hand stroking my hair. I lean against the touch. "I know he doesn't. He has a lot of pressure at work but over-drinking was not the only option. He promised he would call me. I waited for his call until my eyes couldn't stay open and I almost gave up but thankfully, you answered his phone when I called. I was so worried." The voice breaks a little.

"I'm sorry I told you to come back to Seattle early this morning. I really think he needs to talk to you."

"Who did his dressing?"

"Felix helped me. I don't think Edward was conscious enough to know he hurt his arm."

"I'm so, so mad at him. Let him know that once he wakes up."

"Aren't you staying for breakfast?"

"I'm sorry but I need to leave right away. I just had to see him and make sure he was fine. I've left an Aspirin and a glass of water on the nightstand. His stomach will be irritated once he is awake. Don't give him coffee, no matter how many times he asks for it. And nothing sugary, please. I'm sure after he eats a full breakfast, he'll be fine."

"Of course, that's not a problem. Bella dear, stay until he wakes up."

"No, Mrs. Cope. He can wake up regretting he drank too much. Demetri, I would like to leave for Forks right away, please."

"Yes, Ms. Swan."

I feel a soft pressure against my forehead but it's gone too quickly. I frown and feel another one against my cheek. Then another.

"I love you, baby. I'll see you on Tuesday. Bye."


My eyes snap open and I come directly face to face with my nightstand. I crane my neck and notice a glass on the top of it. There is a coaster next to it. My head throbs and I have never felt more exhausted in my life. A duvet is wrapped around my body and I realize I'm still in last night's clothes.

I wriggle my toes and realize somebody has taken off my shoes and socks. Did I do it when I came home last night? Or had Mrs. Cope done it? I feel guilty at the latter thought. I can't believe I was so stupid and reckless.

I let out a soft sigh and hear my phone buzzing on the nightstand. Even that sound is irritating. I groan and blindly reach for the phone. I answer it without checking the screen and press it against my ear.

"Hello?" I groggily croak out.

"Uh, I-I'm sorry, Mr. Cullen. I'll give you a call later." Kyle says hastily and I clear my throat.

"I'll get back to you in an hour, Kyle."

"Sir." I end the call and throw the phone on Bella's side of the bed.

Bella.

Fuck. The events from yesterday barrel into my mind and I sit bolt upright on the bed. I bury my face in my hands and moan softly. I was supposed to call Bella. She must have waited for my call. I need to call her but ugh; my skull is going to crack open.

Thank god for Mrs. Cope. I reach for the Aspirin and swallow it. I drink some water and put the glass back down. I gaze down at my t-shirt and my eyes widen when I stare at my left arm. There is a big gash on my upper arm which is properly wrapped in a gauze bandage. What the hell happened last night?

I touch the bruise and wince softly. I must have knocked into something. God, I am never getting drunk again. It's just not worth it. I grab the intercom and call Mrs. Cope.

"Good morning, Mr. Cullen. I'll get you a glass of juice right away."

"I'd rather have coffee, please. I need something strong."

"No, Mr. Cullen. I have strict orders from Ms. Swan to not give you any coffee. Your fresh juice will be on the way."

Ms. Swan? How the hell did Bella come into all this?

"Bella?" I confirm but the line goes dead.

Great.

Two minutes later, there is a knock on the door and Mrs. Cope walks in with a cautious smile on her face. She passes me the glass of juice and sits down on the edge of the bed.

"How are you feeling?"

"Head hurts," I mumble and take a sip of my juice. I put the glass away and sigh. "How did I get hurt on my arm?"

"You uh, stumbled into the abstract statue at the entrance to the courtyard." I close my eyes and run a hand through my hair.

"It broke?" I ask and open my eyes. She nods. "Damn, that was my favorite one."

"We'll have a new one delivered," She takes in my expression for a moment. "You don't have a clue what happened last night, do you?"

"I'm sorry for whatever happened, I have no idea how I screwed up. I hope it wasn't anything dangerous."

"Well you scared me a little, to be honest. I haven't seen you like that before."

"I'm sorry."

"It's okay, dear. I hope you'll take care of yourself from now on." She rubs my back.

"Thank you for the pill and taking off my shoes and socks."

She chuckles, and an amused smile twists on her lips. "I didn't do it."

"I don't remember taking off my shoes." I murmur and wrack my brain to recall how they got off.

"Bella did it."

My heart pounds a little harder in my chest. "What?" I leap out of bed. "Bella's here? Where is she? The kitchen or the library?" A wide grin forms on my face but Mrs. Cope gives me a sad frown.

"She left, dear."

My stomach drops. "What? She left?" I whisper and feel hurt.

"Bella called your phone a couple of times last night but you didn't answer. I received her call on your phone when you came back home and told her what happened."

"Oh." I whisper and sit on the sofa. I bury my face in my hands and sigh.

"She came here around eight-thirty this morning, stayed for not more than ten minutes and left again for Forks. She put the pill on your nightstand, tucked you in bed and took off your shoes."

"Why didn't you ask her to stay?" I ask and look at her.

"I did, but she was very mad at you. She stayed up all night because you were going to call."

"How the fuck did this happen?" I murmur and run my hands through my hair.

"Give her a call, talk to her," Mrs. Cope walks over to me. "I'll get breakfast ready for you." She ruffles my hair and walks out of the room.

I rise to my feet and settle myself on the bed. I immediately call Bella. She answers on the first ring and I hear nothing but silence from her side.

"Bella baby, I'm so, so sorry. I have no idea what happened. Please, love. I'm really sorry. Mrs. Cope just told me that you came all the way over here for me. I feel really bad. Why didn't you stay for a while, Bella? I wanted to see you. I miss you so much, baby. I just," I take a deep breath. "I don't know what to say."

What seems like hours later, she lets out a soft sigh.

"How are you feeling?" Her voice is flat and emotionless.

"Better than I deserve."

"Yes you do." She agrees and remains mum.

"I'm sorry, Bella. This won't happen again. Why didn't you stay? I wanted to see you so badly. I miss you, I really do."

"I know."

"I love you."

"I know that too."

"Say something, please. Don't stay mad at me."

"You promised you wouldn't drink so much."

"Emmett and I got to talking and I couldn't stop myself."

"Do you realize how worried I was? I knew you were drunk, and you weren't answering my calls. I had to call Mrs. Cope, and she told me that you were fighting with Emmett about something. I know you hate Rosalie but you can't insult her! She is his wife, for Christ sake!"

I frown softly. "I didn't say anything about Rosalie."

"You probably don't remember it. Emmett was kind enough to help you come home in one piece but you were out of control on your way home. I'm so disappointed in you. Then you hurt yourself and went to Mrs. Cope. That poor woman was peacefully sleeping in her room."

I clear my throat. "I don't remember."

"How can you remember, you were so damn hammered! I know you are stressed and there is a lot of pressure on you. I wanted to talk to you about it. I thought you'd be more comfortable sharing it with me than anyone else. I thought we could work out some solutions."

"Bella, I'm really—"

"I don't want to hear your apologies. You need to say you are sorry to both Emmett and Mrs. Cope."

"I will. I don't even know why I went to Mrs. Cope." I whisper and shake my head.

"You were telling her how much you miss me," Her voice audibly breaks. "And you wanted to see me and talk to me. That's why she told me to come home."

"Oh."

She clears her throat. "I have a wedding to attend in a couple of hours. I'll talk to you when I get back. I'll see you on Tuesday. Bye."

I want to say a lot of things. But I know she is really angry with me. I can feel it in her voice. I don't want to ruin her mood anymore. She probably hasn't slept well because of me.

"Bye, baby. I love you." I say softly and hang up.

I put the phone away and bury my face in the duvet. Oh, how much I despise myself right now. I need to call my brother and then talk to Mrs. Cope. Last night's behavior was unlike me. I can't believe I woke up Mrs. Cope to tell her how much I miss Bella. That must have scared her.

Mrs. Cope called Bella just because I was so drunk. It must have taken her a lot of time to come here and she must still be on her way back to Forks. She was here to make sure that I was fine.

I really need to balance my life at this moment. I need to stop making too many decisions by myself and reallocate some work to Alex and the others. Bella is right; I need to share my problems with her. She gives me smart advice for every trouble that I have.

She's too good for me.


October 05, 2015


"Edward." Kate hisses and I snap out of my reverie.

I stop staring at my phone and find her smiling in someone's direction. I follow her gaze and find Aro Volturi, Sasha Powell and Louis Kent walking our way. I button up my jacket and plaster a charming smile on my face which makes the VP smile wider at me. Ugh.

"Edward… Kate. It's a delight to meet you again." Aro greets us and gives both of us a quick hug.

"It's lovely to meet you again." Ms. Powell says and literally pulls me in for a hug. My eyes widen and I find Kate trying to hide her laughter behind me. Why does she smell so weird? Aro smiles at us and I crack a small smile.

"Edward, you look well-rested today. I'm glad to see that." He says kindly as we make our way to the conference room.

I look well-rested because I slept in for most of the day due to a nightmarish hangover.

"So I am. I hope today's meeting will get all the worries off our backs."

"I second that." He nods and we enter the conference room.

My gloomy mood returns as I sit in my chair. Bella. God, I can't stop thinking about how mad she is at me. Twenty minutes later, I blankly stare at one of Aro's associate while he explains the various departments of their organization. Kate suddenly stands up and all eyes turn to her.

"I would like to be excused for a minute." She says and her blue eyes stare at me. I frown and wonder why she wants to leave. I give her a tight nod and she struts out of the room.

A couple of minutes later, Kate walks in and stands by my side.

"Can we please stop this meeting for five minutes? I have an important person on call for Ed—Mr. Cullen."

Aro offers a polite nod. "I guess we can spare a few minutes."

Kate smiles. "Victoria has the person on call."

"Is it from Bogota? I am not expecting a call until this evening."

"Just go." She smiles through gritted teeth, resisting the urge to glare at me.

I sigh and excuse myself from the room. Victoria is patiently standing outside the room and I take the phone from her hands. I take a deep breath and gather my Spanish together.

"Edward Cullen."

"Edward, hi honey." It's Bella My heart resonates in my chest as I hear her.

"Hey, Bella." I say hesitantly and walk over to sit down on the nearest chair I see.

"Sweetheart, what's wrong? Why did Kate call me? Do you really look that bad?"

"No," I frown. "I was at home yesterday. I rested, just like you told me to."

"I'm so happy to hear that. Are you feeling better now?"

"No," I run a hand through my hair. "I miss you and you are angry with me."

"Hey, forget what happened last night," She says softly. "You have an important meeting to conduct. People have been looking up to you for today. I know how important this meeting is for you. We'll talk about everything when I get back to Seattle. Can you wait until then?"

"Yes."

"Thank you. Now please don't make me feel bad for being mad at you last night. Plus, you're too pretty to stay mad at. And I can't hold grudges."

I smile. "I know."

"Now be a good boy for me and don't be a grumpy baby."

"Hey! I'm not grumpy."

"Kate's exact words were 'I'm going to kick your stupid boyfriend's ass if he doesn't stop being a grumpy little shit and get his act together'."

I laugh and shake my head. "That sounds like Kate. Alright, I won't be grumpy anymore."

"And don't let that woman hit on you."

"Too late for that, my love."

"Is it? Well, maybe I'll come over and interrupt your meeting then."

"I would love it if you'd do that." I whisper and chuckle.

"I'm sure you would. I think you should go back to the meeting, people must be wondering where you've been. I'll talk to you later."

"Come back soon. I love you."

"I love you too, Edward. Bye."

"Bye." I end the call and stand up.

I find Vic standing at the entrance of the room and I return my phone to her. She smiles taking in my relaxed, beaming smile and shakes her head.

"Vanilla has magical powers."

"Bella doesn't like that name."

"She isn't here, is she?"

I chuckle and she walks away from me. I step inside the room and Kate rolls her eyes looking at me. I smile and take a seat.

"Edward, shall we resume?" Ms. Powell asks and leans forward trying to show some of her cleavage. I ignore her and nod at Aro.

"By all means."


SPECIAL THANKS TO EdwardsFirstKiss FOR EDITING THIS CHAPTER!

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