WE'RE THE CULLENS


Disclaimer: Stephenie Meyer owns it all.


BELLA

I took a deep breath as I looked in the mirror. I nodded to myself. Today is going to be a great day. I'm going to be positive today. No matter what happens. Yes. Eli is going to stay with us and there are going to be no hurdles coming forth.

I shivered when I felt a soft kiss against the back of my neck. I swatted his hands creeping towards my waist.

"Hey! I'm not even groping you."

"I was trying to motivate myself for today."

"Mm, is it working standing in the closet?" I looked into his green eyes as they stared at me in the mirror.

"Not anymore."

Edward gave me a gorgeous smile and turned me in his arms. I stared into his beautiful eyes like the emeralds and got lost into them. He was so handsome.

"It's seven in the morning." He said and I chuckled.

"I woke up early." I shrugged and he kissed my lips softly. I wrapped my arms around him, kissing him back. We broke our kiss a few minutes later.

"The robe looks good on you."

"Edward, I have to put on some clothes."

"Come on, we had sex such a long time ago."

"You mean Friday?"

"Yeah, today is Sunday." I laughed and kissed his cheek. "Are you wearing anything inside this robe?"

"Yes."

"Liar." He unknotted the sash and I quickly put it back on.

"Not now and get out of here!" I all but shouted and he gave me a cute smile as he kissed my cheek before turning.

"Where are you going?" I asked and he laughed as he walked over to his closet. He opened it and grabbed a bag readily kept. And I saw two other similar bags lined up.

"The gym in the basement." Wow, there was a gym?

"Okay." I mumbled and turned to grab a dress as his footsteps dissolved.

It's going to be a good day. So why not wear a new dress? I rummaged through the bags and picked out the dress I liked the most. It was good for the chilly weather outside.

It was a half-sleeved black and white floral printed dress. I combed my hair and side braided them so that they rested down my right shoulder. I put on the first pair of heels I found and walked out of the room to find Eli peacefully sleeping on the bed. I gave her a soft kiss before going downstairs.

When I went downstairs, I noticed my last night's heels lying by the couch, so I kept them away. I hesitantly entered the library Edward told me about and gasped looking at the numerous amount of books present.

I read through their titles and decided to read The Color Purple. I always wanted to read that. I hoped Carlisle wouldn't mind me taking a book to read. I sat on the couch in the living room and opened the book.

I heard the backdoor open an hour later and looked up to see a woman in her late forties standing at the doorway, staring at me with a frown on her face. I hastily kept the book away and stood up.

"Um, hello. Can I help you?" I asked with a nervous smile because of her intense gaze.

"I should ask you that question, woman. Who are you?"

"I'm Bella." Recognition flooded in her eyes but the frowned stayed put.

"Mrs. Cullen told me Dr. Cullen was getting here."

"I'm his wife." She gasped, her hand gripping the doorway as her gaze fell on the wedding ring.

"He got married?" I nodded and she laughed heartily. "So, he finally found a woman to keep him in his limits." I chuckled.

"Yeah, maybe." I mumbled and she walked over to me.

"I'm Martha Knight, I'm the housekeeper. It's good to meet you." Oh. OH.

"Hi, Mrs. Knight. Edward has told me a lot about you." She laughed again.

"I bet none of it was good." I didn't answer to her comment. "I thought so." I followed her to the kitchen and had no idea what to do.

"So, what would you like for breakfast?"

"No, thank you. I can make something for us."

"I have cooked for this family for almost thirty years. Nobody takes that from me." She gave me a smile and I smiled back. "So, what would Dr. Cullen have?"

"You can make whatever you wish." I shrugged and she laughed.

"Tell me. What about you?"

"Um, pancakes?"

"Pancakes it is." I helped her even though she tried to shoo me away but I felt bad for making her cook while I just stood there. She started cleaning up the space after making the batter and I just watched her.

"Bella?" Edward called out and Mrs. Knight had a big smile on her face as she cleared up the mess around.

"Excuse me." I muttered and walked out of the kitchen and found him standing by the couch, shirtless.

Breathe.

"Yes?" I cleared my throat as I asked. God. My god. This man was so perfect. He looked so sexy just wearing his sports shoes and gym shorts. I could see sweat marring his forehead and the long breaths he took because of the heavy workout session.

"Nothing, I just wanted to see where you were. I'll take a shower and then help you with the breakfast, okay?" He gave me a soft smile and I couldn't comprehend what he just said. So I just nodded and watched him disappear from my sight. Wow, he got me all hot.

Anyway.

I shook my head and went back to the kitchen to see Mrs. Knight pouring some portion of the batter to make the pancakes in the pan. I heard little feet pattering our way and knew Eli was up.

"Mommy?"

"In here, honey." Eli walked in sleepily, rubbing her eyes and holding her little stuffed unicorn in the other hand. She must've gone to her previous room to get it.

"Hi, baby." She motioned her arms to me and I held her on my hip.

"She's your and Dr. Cullen's daughter?" Mrs. Knight asked and I nodded. She had a look of awe written all over her face as she stared at Eli. "I can't believe it. Dr. Cullen would be able to handle kids, who knew?" She chuckled and I gave her a smile. Edward must be really bad with kids if everybody feels the same way. But he was a pediatrician. Maybe it was a family joke or something. I shrugged that thought away.

"Hi, Ms. Cullen. I work for your nana." She said to Eli who gave her a smile.

"Hewo." Eli gave a wave and looked at me. I kissed her forehead.

"Mrs. Knight is making your favorite pancakes."

"Choco?" I nodded.

"Yes."

"Mommy, TV." She pouted and I sighed.

"Sweetie, what did daddy say? No TV before breakfast and breakfast is almost ready. Why don't you go sit on your special chair and we'll have breakfast when daddy is here." Eli nodded and squirmed in my arms so I set her down.

She went running out of the room and few minutes later, I heard a squeal. Her laughter got closer to us and I knew her daddy was here. Edward stopped tickling her when he saw Mrs. Knight and set Eli down.

"Mrs. Knight." He nodded, grinning at her.

"Dr. Cullen. It's been a while." She had a rueful smile on her face.

"What's for breakfast?" He asked me and I stared at him. That's it? No hug or handshake? Wow, they must be really hating each other's guts back then.

"Pancakes."

"Excellent. Come on, princess. It's time for breakfast." He carried her to the beautiful dining table next to the couch which was open from all directions but had roof on top. It was like a dream house and I had never lived in such an expensive place before. It was kind of intimidating.

Edward set Eli on the highchair I got her and sat down himself. I served up the plates and sat next to him. He leaned over and kissed my lips softly. I smiled against his lips.

"I expected you to give Mrs. Knight a hug or something." He chuckled against my lips.

"Some relations are better kept unchanged, they are much more fun that way." He winked and I wrapped my arms around his neck, pressing my lips against his. We broke apart when there was throat clear and I blushed bright red as Mrs. Knight served us breakfast.

"Mickey!" I frowned and looked over at Eli's plate to see the pancake in the shape of mickey mouse's face. I laughed.

"That's great, isn't it, sweetie?" She nodded.

"Fank you, miss." She said to Mrs. Knight, who grinned at her. Edward helped Eli pour the maple syrup and she pouted asking for more.

"No, angel. You shouldn't have too much of this." I stared at them amused. Edward would never say no to her.

"Pwease?" She pouted and he sighed, pouring more of it. Mrs. Knight placed a plateful of pancakes in front of us and Edward smiled.

"These pancakes are delicious." I told her and she nodded.

"Is there any cleaning for me to do?" She asked me and I shook my head.

"No, the house is pretty clean."

"Mrs. Knight, actually I was going to take them outside for lunch and dinner, so you really don't have to stay. We'll probably be home late and then because of us, you wouldn't be able to leave." Edward said and I stared at him, puzzled.

"Are you sure, there is nothing for me to do?"

"No, I'll help Bella with clearing up the dishes, don't worry and have a great day."

"If you say so." She bid us goodbye and left from the main door.

"We're going out?" I asked and he chuckled.

"No, love. You don't want Mrs. Knight here when those people get here. She tells everything to mom." I nodded. "Why? Do you want to go out?"

"Not today." He smiled and cleared his throat, turning completely in Eli's direction.

"Eli, princess mommy and I have to talk to you." My mood went glum but I tried to keep positive thoughts in my head.

"Otay." Eli grinned at us.

"Uh, there are people who are going to come here to meet you today."

"Who people?"

"Well, your aunt."

"Aunt Wose?" I wish.

"No, sweetie. Your mommy's aunt." I told her in a calm voice and she tilted her in confusion.

"Mommy haves sister?"

"Not me, darling. Your old mommy." Ugh. I was her mommy, not that awful woman! I hated the fact that Eli wasn't my real daughter.

"Bad mommy?" Eli whispered and we both nodded. She kept the fork on the plate, and pushed it away, staring at the table. We stared at her for five whole minutes as she continued gazing away from us.

"Eli? Princess, talk to us please." She shook her head and I looked over at Edward helplessly. He gave my hand a soft squeeze and stroked Eli's hair but she shrugged off his hand. I stood up and walked over to her side.

"Baby, what's the matter? Tell mommy." She shook her head and wiggled in her seat. I moved a little away and she got off the chair. She went running somewhere and Edward sighed next to me, holding his head in his hands.

"We're too late." He whispered. "We should've told her sooner. They'll be here in three hours. What are we going to tell them?" I stroked his hair.

"We'll figure something out. Don't worry." I said soothingly and he looked up at me, his green eyes looked anxious. I sat on his knee and held his face in my hands.

"Eli won't listen."

"Yes she will, honey. We'll just have to go talk to her. Come on, she must be in your old bedroom."

"Okay." I kissed his lips softly and we stood up. We made our way upstairs and saw her nowhere in Edward's old bedroom. Panic set in me. Where was she? I looked at Edward.

"Edward, where is she?" I whispered and he ran a hand through his hair. We heard a little movement in Edward's sister's room and looked at each other.

"Bella, I can't go in there." He said desperately and I rubbed his back. It was always difficult to talk about his sister but he looked in physical pain standing here.

"I know, hush, I'll get her out if you want." I turned the doorknob and entered the beautiful room to see Eli sleeping on her stomach with her face under the pillows. I moved closer and realized she was crying.

"Eli, honey it's mommy."

"No!" She shouted and cried harder. My heart broke looking at her this way. I turned to find Edward standing in the doorway with a nervous expression. I had never seen that expression on his face before.

"Edward, she won't listen." I turned to Eli and stroked her hair. "Baby, please we have to talk."

"No!" I couldn't even see her face as she cried. I sat on the edge of the bed and had no idea what to do. Even Edward won't be able to get here, he told me how hard it was for him.

"Hey, why is my princess crying so much?" I snapped my head to where Eli was, to see Edward leaning over as he took the pillow off her head. He got here for her. He said he never entered this room.

"Daddy, no!" Eli wept as she sat on the bed and he hesitantly sat next to her. I could see Edward holding his breath and how tensed his body was.

"What's wrong?" He asked her and I sat on the other side of her.

"No." She shook her head and jumped into his arms. She clung to him and he held her tightly in his arms. He looked over at me and I nodded. We both stood up and exited the room. I watched Edward let out a big sigh as soon as we stepped out.

We entered his old bedroom and sat on the couch on the far end of the room. Eli just whimpered now and we had to find out what was going on.

"Eli, sweetheart stop crying so much." I whispered and she pulled back to look at me. I wiped away her tears and she clutched Edward's sweater in her little hands.

"What's wrong, baby?"

"I no wanna go bad mommy and daddy." She croaked out and I got her glass of water from the nightstand. I helped her drink some water.

"Nobody is taking you to them, we promise."

"They comes here?" She asked scared and I leaned against Edward.

"We have to tell her." I whispered and he kissed my hair.

"Baby, your mommy and daddy are not here anymore." She frowned as Edward said it.

"Where they go?" Her cheeks were all puffy from crying and I brushed my fingers against them.

"Um, do you remember you were going in a car with your mommy and daddy?" Tears gathered in her eyes and she nodded. "And you remember the car hitting a big tree?"

"Daddy hewlp." I smiled and Edward kissed her head.

"That's right. So they took your mommy and daddy away because they were very hurt."

"Boo-boo?"

"No, darling it was bigger than a boo-boo. So they had to take them to the hospital."

"Shot?"

"Lots of shots."

"Bad mommy, daddy no cwy?"

"No, but then people couldn't save them. So they passed away."

"Bad mommy, daddy get huwt?" She started to cry and I couldn't help my own tears. Why was she crying for them? Does she love them? Miss them?

"A little, princess. So they left you with us. So that we can love you very much and take care of you." Edward whispered and she wiped away her tears.

"I see them?"

"You can see them at night. They are stars at night. You like stars, don't you?" Eli nodded. "Two of them are your mommy and daddy."

"They fly?"

"No, but they can see you from up there. And they are happy for you." I said softly and she gazed at me surprised.

"Weally?"

"Of course. They are very happy that you live with us. Are you happy to stay with us?" I asked apprehensively and she nodded at me. "If you are happy then they are also happy."

"So, like daddy has Uncle Em for a brother, your old mommy also had a sister. She's going to meet you today." Edward said and she shifted closer to him.

"Aunt?" He nodded. "You stay wif me?" She gazed at us worriedly.

"We'll stay with you the whole time." Eli crawled on my lap and hugged me tightly. I kissed her hair and pulled her warm, little body closer to me.

"I wov you, mommy."

"I love you too, Eli. So much." I whispered and closed my eyes. I looked up at Edward and he smiled at me but his eyes looked thoughtful.

"Eli, do you want to have your breakfast? Mrs. Knight made those pretty Mickey Mouse pancakes but you didn't have them." She nodded and I held her on my hip as she wrapped her arms around my neck.

"That went better than I imagined." He whispered in my ear and I sighed.

But could've been better.


I watched Eli cling to Edward tightly as she watched her cartoons. After a long breakfast and an elaborate bath, she seemed okay. Except for the fact that she was acting overly clingy to the both of us. I knew Edward never liked it but he didn't seemed too irritated by it today.

"And who's that little horse?" He asked her quietly as they both looked at the TV screen.

"That Gweg."

"Hmm, he looks cute." Eli giggled and nodded. Edward looked over at me and offered a soft smile. I just stared at them and he frowned softly. I resumed reading where I paused and a minute later he was sitting next to me.

"Bella, what happened?" I kept the book away.

"Eli is acting so different today. How is it going to look when the people get here?"

"I know, but darling that little girl just got to know she lost her parents, what do you think is going on in her mind?" I looked over at Eli who was totally engrossed in the cartoons.

"I don't know."

"She's three, she doesn't even know what is the concept of death. But she understood that her parents are never coming back. That made her scared."

"Why? It shouldn't. We are here." He wrapped his arm around me and pulled me closer to him.

"I know but angel, they were her parents. You can never hate your parents. You always need them. Part of her is definitely missing them so she is finding comfort in us."

"But, she calls us her parents." I said as I couldn't comprehend what he was saying.

"Yes and she won't remember her parents by the time she is thirteen or something. It'll just be us but her memory of them is very fresh right now. Eli is our baby, but Bella it still wouldn't change the fact that we are not her real parents. Not for another few years, at least according to her."

"We love her like she is our own, it shouldn't bother her."

"You think it wouldn't. But she is someday going to ask us about it, I'm sure. If we ever have kids," I stiffened. Nope, not thinking about it. I let the thought pass out of my mind. "What? You don't want kids?" He smiled, I could see the light humor in his eyes. Ah, he wanted kids, at least that was a silver lining.

"S-Sure."

"Like I was saying, if we ever have kids she is going to be asking questions about why are you carrying our baby but she was just brought home or I'm damn sure she would ask about it the next time she sees Angela."

"Edward, don't scare me." He kissed my forehead.

"I'm just telling you the multiple possibilities that could occur. We need to be prepared for them and perhaps why we shouldn't have kids for a long, long time." I hugged him tightly as I took deep breaths. Oh god, oh god.

"Okay." I whispered and he stroked my braided hair. I closed my eyes but the pregnancy tests lying in my purse kept flashing in front of my eyes. So I opened my eyes and leaned up to kiss him. His lips distracted me a great deal. And then the doorbell rang.

Eli climbed on my lap and I took a shaky breath. They were here. Edward gave me a soft kiss before standing to answer the main door.


I stood up, setting Eli down, who tugged on my dress. I looked down at her and she raised her arms. I sighed and lifted her in my arms again, holding her tightly. She played with my hair, tracing the pattern of the braid with her index finger.

Four people came into my view, one of them being my handsome boyfriend. A woman in her late thirties was dressed in a professional pant suit and knew she must be from the adoption agency. Next to them was a man in his late-forties, who probably should have kids going to college. Is it the aunt's husband?

The woman standing next to them shocked me the most. She wasn't like I expected her at all. She wore a very simple yet designer dress and an overcoat. Her face was probably malnourished. She had a soft smile on her face as her gray eyes met mine. I smiled back cautiously as Edward walked over to me.

"This is my girlfriend, Bella Swan. Love, that's Jean Heard from the agency, Bob Fetcher and Irina Fetcher." I nodded, plastering a smile on my face.

"It's great to see you all, please make yourselves comfortable." They all placed themselves on the couch and armchairs and I handed Eli to Edward.

"What should I get for? Coffee? Water? Juice?" I asked politely and Jean smiled.

"Water would be great, thank you."

"Same for me, please." Irina said and I was taken aback by how gentle her voice was. There was a soothing sense to it.

"Me too." Bob grunted and I nodded.

"Sure."

I made my way to the kitchen and leaned against the counter as I took a deep breath. I need to be positive. I filled up three glasses of water and heard Edward talking to them about something. I quickly served them water and took a seat next to Edward. I gripped his hand tightly in my own.

"You have a lovely home." Irina said and we both smiled.

"Thank you."

"And I know it's been a rush for you because I didn't tell soon enough if I wanted to meet Elizabeth. You just got two weeks to let her know about me. So, I'm really sorry for that." She continued and I leaned against Edward.

"That's no problem Mrs. Fetcher, we understand. You knew about Eli so you deserved to meet her." Edward said smoothly and she had a relieved smile on her face.

"Can I?" She motioned to Eli and I nodded.

"Eli?" I called out and she finally moved her head away from Edward's neck to look at me. "Go say hi to Ms. Irina. She came here to meet you." Tears gathered in her blue eyes and she shook her head.

"Princess, we'll sit right here. Go, darling. Please?" Edward said softly and she squirmed in his arms. He set her down and I wiped away her tears before she walked over to Irina.

"My god, she looks just like Minnie!" Irina gasped as tears sprung in her eyes. "Hi Eli, isn't it?" Eli nodded.

"Hi." She whispered shyly, playing with the hem of her dress.

"How old are you, Eli?"

"Thwee."

"Wow, you are a big girl. Now I got to know that you loved chocolates, so I got something for you." She got a big candy bar out of her purse and gave it to Eli, who held it eagerly in her hands.

"Fank you." She had a wide grin on her face. Edward wrapped an arm around my shoulder and I looked at him. He leaned his forehead against the side of my head and stroked my cheek with his other hand.

"Smile." He whispered, smiling himself.

"I'll try." I shook my head and he placed a kiss on my cheek.

"It's going to be fine."

"You don't know that."

"Trust me?"

"Yes."

"Then trust me." I smiled and looked over at Eli. She sat next to her aunt as they spoke about something. Eli showed her the pendant she wore as she talked non-stop and then the unicorn she clutched tightly in her hands.

Her husband on the other hand looked like he could be anywhere but here. He scrolled through his phone, disinterested in what was going on around. Old bastard. Like he knew I was staring, he caught my gaze and gave me a lewd smile. I cowered against Edward who frowned softly at me. I shook my head.

"Wow, this is great. It's a good thing they are bonding very well." Jean commented quietly as she sat next to me and I nodded tightly.

"At least she knows someone from her real family now." Edward riled it up further. I looked at him and he kissed my forehead.

"Yeah, now she can perhaps be comfortable living with her aunt in Austin. Soak up some sun in the South. It always rains in Seattle."

"Tell me about it. It's summer for crying out loud." Edward commented and I shifted uncomfortably in my seat. He tightened his hand in my own, motioning me to stay calm.

How was I supposed to stay calm? Can't he see? This woman was going to give Eli to her aunt from us! She was our daughter. No, she can't take her from us. I looked over at them to find them talking about something and Eli had a grin on her face. She was so happy. Had she been this happy with us?

Now Eli wouldn't even mind going to her aunt anymore. We'll be alone then. I can't imagine my day without Eli anymore. She was always there with me. How was this going to work out? I couldn't even comprehend the thought.

"Austin is heating up. Eli seems fairly comfortable here."

"Bella and I have been giving her the most attention we could."

"It must be difficult for you to imagine her not stay here anymore. You know when she goes to stay with her real family." I heard Edward sigh and tears build up in my eyes.

"Well, it could―" I stood up and he stopped talking.

"Excuse me." I muttered and turned to leave.

"Bella?" Edward called out but I made my way straight to the kitchen. I wiped away the tears that gathered in my eyes. I took a deep breath as I tried to calm myself down. It was so surreal to feel this way.

My stomach was in knots and I couldn't believe my luck that Eli had to go away from us. I drank some water and blinked back the tears that gathered in my eyes. I heard footsteps approaching and knew it must be Edward.

I felt a hand on my waist and realized it wasn't his warm, soothing touch. I gasped when I turned. It wasn't Edward. It was Bob Fetcher, standing impossibly close to me. His malicious grin made a shiver run down my spine. Instinct was to shout but I didn't want to make a scene.

His dark eyes bore into mine and I stepped away from him. His eyes trailed over my body, making me feel exposed for some reason.

"Can I help you with anything?" I asked, trying to keep my voice even.

"Sure, there are a lot of things you can help me with." I could hear the sleazy innuendo behind it.

"Help yourself." I mumbled and made a move to exit the kitchen to go to Edward but he gripped my wrist tightly, pulling me to him.

"Where do you think you're going? You think I'll let a tight piece of ass like you get away from me?" I couldn't help the tears as I tried to get out of his grasp. If I shout, Eli would see this. I don't want her seeing me like this. But my wrist hurt!

"Please, move." I muttered as I tried to wriggle my hand out of his hold. But he was so much taller and stronger than me.

"Not so soon." His other hand gripped the back of my head as he pushed his lips against mine. Ugh.

"Bella?"

Edward! He was here. I pushed Bob off me and he quickly moved away, leaving his hold on my wrist. Edward walked in and I went running to him, slamming into his arms. I took deep breaths, trying to breath in his scent as he rubbed my back.

"Baby, what happened?" He whispered and I couldn't help the tears.

"Excuse me." Bob muttered and I assumed he was leaving.

"Wait." Edward snapped at him. He pulled away to look at me. His gaze fell on the old bastard and the on me again. "What happened, angel? Did he touch you?" I nodded and he wiped away my tears as I could see anger rising in his eyes.

"Go outside. I'll have a word with him." His icy tone make me shudder and I nodded. He placed a soft kiss on my forehead and I walked out of there, trying to calm myself. I found Jean and Eli talking amongst each other, oblivious to anything but I could see a gleam in Irina's eyes that told me she knew what would have happened. She nodded at me and stood up.

"Ms. Swan? Can you show me around?" She said, standing in front of me. She placed a hand on my shoulder and I nodded.


Irina was very polite to start with. She was fairly well-mannered and seemed like she came from a good family. Then why was her sister so much worse?

"He didn't hurt you, did he?" I showed her my wrist, which had a little bruise and saw regret in her eyes.

"I shouldn't have gotten him here, I'm sorry."

"It wasn't your fault." We were walking along the wide blanket of the stretched across lawn.

"If you say so."

"When did you find out about Eli?"

"Two months ago when her parents died in a car crash." I looked at her shocked.

"Then why didn't you claim her then?"

"I got to know a man took her guardianship and was a CIA agent. Who better to take care of her, right?" I sighed.

"Did you get a call from the NYPD?" I asked and she let out a trilling laughter.

"Like they could track me. No. I called. I wanted to meet Eli."

"Oh."

"My husband, as you can see is a very noble man," She rolled her eyes. "I was going to divorce him soon and I wanted to see if Eli was safe where she was."

"She is." I nodded and she smiled.

"I know."

"Are you taking her?" I asked hesitantly and she smiled.

"I am taking her to London."

London? Why London? No! She can't take her away from me. She was mine. Irina just met her minutes ago. The girl was my life. She just can't take her. I tried to hold back the tears.

"That's lovely." I mumbled, sniffling lightly.

"At least, I came here with that thought process." She continued. "I know you had a very bad picture of me in your head. That I would be like my sister and all. But, I'd rather hope you don't."

"I don't anymore." I whispered truthfully and she smiled.

"I wanted Eli to have a normal childhood, not the one she was born in. I thought, leaving my husband and taking her with me to another country would bring peace to us." I said nothing. London? No.

"Your boyfriend must've tried to find out about me." I smiled because he did. "Bet he couldn't find anything." I looked at her surprised and she chuckled.

"I'm a crime analyst. I live by a different name outside. I don't know why I told you this but I thought you should know. I hope you won't tell this to many people."

"Your secret is safe with me."

"I got an offer in London. I was on a break since a long time. I didn't want my husband to know either. He still thinks I'm a high school dropout who is with him for money and sex."

"This may sound completely out of line but, why are you married to him?" She gave me a soft smile.

"He is a very respected man in Austin. All this reputation is not based on what goes on behind the scenes. He offered me shelter when I was homeless. Minnie ran away with some guy and I was left alone. I owed him that. I was very new in Austin. I had nobody. He was very kind to me in the beginning but then his dark side started to show."

"He was violent with me, abused me but I couldn't say anything. I had nowhere to go. I couldn't do anything with his money. I finally got the courage to apply to London. I got a job to work for about two years ago. I thought Eli would be my window to go. I could have enough reasons to leave him when he takes me to the court."

Irina was going to use my daughter? But she did say she wanted her safe and was confessing everything. How was I to trust her? She knew Edward was searching about her. She knew he couldn't find her. Should I trust this woman?

"So, you were going to use Eli for getting out of your marriage?"

"That's the only reason I would have. But I spoke to my lawyer and she was helpful enough to talk about this. We found out couple of things about him that can help with the divorce."

"That's good."

"Jean told me I could have Eli with me within a few weeks. Two most probably, if Eli takes liking to me. Which she has." Irina grinned and my heart pounded in my chest. Two weeks.

"Oh."

"So, I made a plan to take her London and settle there. She can start preschool this fall which would be great, so everything falls in the routine."

"Preschool, of course." I said, my voice breaking as I stared at the pool. Irina laughed and I looked up.

"You know, Bella. Something occurred to me the minute I saw you holding Eli when I entered. That to raise a wonderful child, the child needs a father. I saw how great she is with Edward. I didn't have to stay for a day to see that. I knew it within minutes."

"I probably won't be able to give her a father figure she can look up to even though I can provide her a mother's love." I tried to gauge her feelings.

"So, if she already has such wonderful set of parents whom she calls mommy and daddy, why should I take her from them?" My chest felt heavy as I stared at her. Where was she going with this?

"I was thinking about giving her rights to you. Are you even tad interested in this offer?" Her eyes told me she wasn't lying, she seemed fairly honest. Eli would be ours. I was definitely dreaming.

"Are you kidding?" I asked shocked and she laughed.

"No, Bella. I see her with you guys and it… fits. You both make wonderful parents. I don't want to take Eli from you. I just wanted to make sure she was in good hands."

"But then, the stuff you said about London?" I stuttered not believing her words.

"I'm sure I can escape easily. Don't worry about anything, I'll sign the consent. She'll be yours by the end of this month if you want."

I gave her a fierce hug, as I wept, having no idea what to do. I couldn't help trust her. She was giving Eli to us. She'll be our daughter. That's what I wanted but I still couldn't wrap my head around the fact that it was happening.

"Are you serious?" I asked, pulling back to look at her.

"Take a risk to trust a stranger once. I'm trusting you both even though you are strangers to me, you can reciprocate, can't you?" I nodded.

"I suppose. But aren't you going to London?"

"Yes, probably leaving in two days. We are going to court as soon as the flight lands, that man inside has no idea."

"Good luck with that."

"Bella, she is my only family, I'm leaving you with her. Please, keep her safe."

"You have my word." I promised her and she had tears in her eyes too.

"I owe you so much. If you have any problem, you can always ask me. I have reach through the internal system more than your CIA boyfriend does." I chuckled.

"Of course, he couldn't even track you." She smiled.

"Call me if you have any problem." Suddenly something struck me as she handed me her card, something from yesterday's shopping spree.

"Actually, I do have something for you."

"Yes?"

"I need you to find someone for me."

. . .

"Did she just say that?" Edward asked shocked as the cars disappeared from where we stood at the porch.

"You can't believe it, can you?"

"Or do you think something is fishy in this?" He looked at me and I rolled my eyes.

"Could you stop being so dubious for a moment?"

"Love, I can't help it. How could she decide to give Eli up so easily."

"Trust her for once." He scoffed.

"She's a stranger."

"Trust me for once?" He smiled and wrapped his arms around me.

"You are a stranger."

"Am I?"

He nodded and leaned down to kiss my lips softly. I sighed against his lips and couldn't help the relief and satisfaction as they left. Being positive helped after all. Edward pulled me closer and my breathing hitched when I felt his body against mine. I couldn't help whimper. It's been two days.

He bit on my bottom lip and I felt little sparks of electricity running in my body. His fingers were splayed on my hips and he tried to hitch the dress higher. I pulled back and shook my head.

"Not now." He pouted and I looked away. "Eli is inside, watching cartoons."

"I'm starving."

"Me too. Come on, I'll make something quick."

"What?"

"Tacos?"

"Excellent." He flashed me a smile.

Eli hugged Edward tightly as soon as we entered and I recalled Irina's words about having a father figure. Maybe she was right. Even though Carlisle is not Edward's real father, his mannerisms are just like him. A child needs a father figure and Edward was a good one.

But that thought went into the bin when I saw him helping her unwrap the candy bar Irina gifted. I took it from his hands and glared at them.

"I just said I'll make lunch and you are helping her eat a candy bar this big?"

"She is hungry too." Was his lame response. I took Eli from his lap and we went to the kitchen.

"Eli, you want to help mommy make some tacos?"

"What tacofs?" I laughed.

"Tacos," I kissed her nose. I opened the second drawer and showed her a box of taco shells. "We are going to make grilled chicken and put them in these to eat."

"Pwetty." She grabbed the box from my hands. I set her down on the marble island and sighed as I was reminded what happened here the last time I came.

"Mommy, what I do?"

"How about you open the box and set the shells on this plate to count them?"

"Otay!"

I started collecting the ingredients and thought about Irina's words. Maybe we can be good parents. We are good parents. Eli was never this happy. I hoped Irina would divorce the sleazeball and get herself a better life.

I didn't see him after I left this kitchen. Edward said he punched him in the eye so he went from the backdoor of the kitchen to go sit in his car. Ah, of course Edward punched him. I washed the tomatoes and a hiss left my lips as the reddened part of my wrist came in contact with the ice-cold water.

"You said you weren't hurt." Edward whispered behind me as he held the wrist in his hand. "Bella?"

"It doesn't hurt anymore, just the water was a change of setting." I reassured him.

"Okay." He placed a soft kiss on my wrist and I smiled at him.

"It's all better now." He chuckled.

"Do you need help?"

"Daddy! I hewlp too!" Eli yelled excitedly from behind us.

"I can see that, princess."

"Edward, you want to help?" He nodded

"Why don't you collect the ingredients, I'll tell you." His lips brushed against my ear as he leaned closer while I breathlessly dictated the things he had to get.

"If I be good and help you, can you show me what you got from the shopping yesterday?" I blushed and pushed him off me. He laughed and went over to the freezer to get the chicken out.

He had no idea what I had planned for him.


EDWARD

"How's Seth?" Was the first thing I asked when I entered the familiar office of the CIA.

"He's good. Just had his medications so he is fast asleep." Phil said and I nodded.

"I'll be taking him to my place tomorrow. He must be an added work to you so I took permission from the chief, I'll take care of him." He looked surprised but nodded and I could see relief flash in his eyes.

I walked over to Tim and saw he was talking on his phone. He stared at me and ended the call quickly. He stood up and I sighed.

"Anything?"

"Nothing about Irina Fetcher." I pulled out her card Irina gave me this morning.

"Find the owner names of this address and see if they relate to Irina Fetcher." He nodded and sat back.

I wondered if Irina was telling the truth but Bella believed her. Then again it was Bella. But she felt like a reliable person but her husband on the other hand got it good from me. How dare he touch my wife? I mean, girlfriend. Let alone fucking kiss her. That old fucker. It would be better for Irina to leave that douche.

Bella said she was leaving for London in two days. She was going to take Eli but decided against it which was good for us. She'll be officially ours in a month. I couldn't wait.

"Edward?" Samantha called and I walked over to her.

"Yeah?"

"Victoria's location keeps on changing."

"Does she have a phone with her?" I dragged a chair to sit next to her.

"Yeah."

"Hack it. See the last calls she made and where they were." I tried to get the sleep out of my eyes. Bella made such delicious tacos, I stuffed a lot of them. My phone rang and I answered it.

"Hey."

"Cullen! I'm in town!" Jacob said happily and I rolled my eyes.

"Should I ask the pope to send you a car, Jake?" Samantha chuckled next to me.

"Yeah, whatever, I'll be there in ten."

"Fine." I ended the call and kept the phone back in.

"The call history." She said and I leaned closer to check the numbers. The codes were from all different places but one number stopped my pulse rate.

"Click on the one that was made at 16:45 yesterday." I muttered and she opened the call history.

"It went unanswered." She murmured and suddenly the page was reloaded and Bella's name flashed instead of the number. Victoria called Bella but she thankfully didn't answer the call. Why did she call Bella? Does Bella know about this?

"Wait a minute." I told her and called Bella. She answered on the fifth ring.

"Hey, handsome." I smiled.

"Where are you?"

"I'm about to wake your princess up, it's almost five."

"Oh."

"Hold on, one second." I heard silence for a minute and then she was back. "Yeah, go on."

"Where were you around five in the evening last night?"

"I was at the mall, honey."

"I know that, but do you remember receiving a call during that time?"

"Okay, baby but just half of it." I heard her say a little farther away. "I'm sorry Edward, what were you saying?"

"Do you remember receiving a call during that time that you did not answer?"

"Uh, wait let me think. Around five we were at the boutique that Alice's fri―yes! I got a call." She said excitedly and I sighed.

"Why didn't you answer it?"

"I was in the changing room so I asked Alice to check but she said it was an unknown number so I told her to let it go unanswered."

"I'm so happy you did that. Don't answer any of these calls, okay?"

"What happened?"

"Nothing, I'll call you later."

"Hold on! When are you coming home?"

"I don't know, love. I'll let you know. Bye."

"Okay, bye." I hung up.

"Yep, the call was unanswered. Make sure no unknown calls are directed to Bella's phone. Do that now."

"Copy that." I waited for her to finish that and they checked rest of the call logs that occurred from her phone.

"Yo, peeps! I'm back!" Jacob said in his booming voice as he entered the office. Everybody stared at him for a moment and then went back to work. "What? No welcome backs?"

"Would you like us to throw you a party as well?" Heidi asked him sweetly and everyone laughed. He scowled at her and walked over to me.

"Ed, I got some news."

"Are you getting married?" I asked as I watched Samantha block spam numbers for Bella's phone and he sighed as he sat next to me.

"No, but there is someone who would like to meet you."

"Who?"

"Our new chief." I frowned.

"Who is it?"

"Aro Volturi. He is a fun guy. Really cool."

"Oh, did everybody meet him?"

"Yeah, yesterday. But then he was waiting for you but you weren't there."

"I'll meet him some other time." I muttered and he looked at the screen we were working on.

"No sign of Victoria, eh?"

"Zilch."

"Hey, Edward?" Luke called and I excused myself to go over to him.

"Yeah?"

"Three men just walked into the house across from your previous apartment."

I grabbed the other pair of headphones and put it on. They entered holding guns, their faces were seen but were a little grainy.

"Gina, screen stream this, scan their faces, check them in the records right this second." I told her as she sat across from me.

"Roger that." I watched them remove the drop cloths off the couch. One of them pulled out folding knife out of his pocket and plunged right into the seat of the sofa.

"Edward, a Burton here is on our red list."

"Jake!" I called out and he came to me. I opened the drawer and gave him an earpiece. "Wear this. Do as I say when you go over there. Take Dave with you."

"Cool." I watched the man tear open the seat and I saw pouches of white and knew what it was.

"Holy shit." I heard Luke say from my side. I grabbed the mic and turned it on.

"Give me Jake's location." Luke opened another window only to see him still about three miles away. I sighed impatiently. His earpiece wasn't turned on either. I called him.

"Jake, turn the fucking earpiece on." I ended the call immediately.

"Ed?" He said and I could hear him in my headphone.

"Yeah, I can hear you. Now, climb from the back of the house when you reach, let Dave stand at the backdoor. There is a small window through which you can fit. Just don't make a lot of noise."

I watched the men start filling up the packets of drugs in the bags they had bought. What the fuck was going on? The beep finally indicated that Jake had reached and closed the window.

"Give me the upstairs view." Luke changed the scene to upstairs view. I could hear Jake talking to someone.

"Jake, are you climbing up? The window is open."

"Yeah, just give me five seconds." I looked at the screen and found him entering the place with careful steps.

"The place is pretty small, there is a staircase for you to go down and there is a bedroom. The kitchen is right across from the living room. Turn on the phone, I'll send the NFC Jammer."

"Alright." I nodded to Luke and he entered Jake's contact number to turn it on. I watched the living room and found them tearing open the rest of the couch as well. I saw Jacob's shadow in the camera.

"Jake, they haven't turned from their position, I can fucking see you from the camera." He hid inside the kitchen and I couldn't see him anymore.

"Edward, I need to be closer. The jammer isn't on." I stared at the living room and saw space by the TV cabinet that was the closest to the camera.

"Do me a favor, there is a cabinet, can you see?"

"Yeah."

"Slide your phone under it, they won't notice, there is a lot of chaos amongst themselves. Be careful." He did as I said and watched one of the men looked around but go back to filling up the bag.

"Good and be ready. Just as they zip the bags, you go. I'll let Dave know. They have their guns at a distance, don't start firing as you walk. Three bullets, get two out. We need Burton, hold on." I looked over at Gina. "Which one is burton?"

"Red t-shirt."

"Thanks, Jake just get the red t-shirt guy alive."

"Got it."

We waited for another five minutes and I watched Burton walking where our camera was. He was gathering some stuff but his eyes hadn't caught the camera yet.

"Fuck." I muttered and shook my head.

But then it happened. He lifted the camera in his hands. It was kept inside a tennis ball. I could see his eyes boring into it and I rolled my eyes. He pulled back and I could see him glaring at it. His big hand crushed the ball and the screen went blank.

I buried my face in my hands. Fuck. I could just hear their voices as Burton told them to hurry up. I held the mic closer to me.

"Jake? What happened?"

"They are fixing the couch instead of filling it up."

"Great. Just fucking great." I muttered and couldn't help feel mad at the situation. We were so close.

"Jake, get out of there before they start―" A phone started to ring. I groaned. I waited for five seconds and glared at the blank screen.

"Son of a bitch! It's your phone Jacob!" I yelled into the mic and I bet he flinched. "Go. Now. Get me Burton."

"Yeah, okay. At least my ringtone is good."

"The Next Episode by Dr. Dre? You need to sort your priorities."

"See you in twenty." And I took off my headphones as I turned everything off.


I was trying to track Victoria all over again as Jake spoke to Burton in the interrogation room. I bet Jake wasn't beating the shit out of him like I did to Malcolm. I needed to talk to Seth once before I left this place. I checked my watch and noticed it was almost six.

The security guard from the ground floor came into our space and I frowned. Why was he here? To my surprise he directly walked over to me.

"Mr. Cullen?"

"Yes?"

"There is someone outside, asking for you." I stood up.

"Who is it?"

"He didn't say his name, but I haven't seen him around."

"Thanks." I looked over at Samantha. "I'll be back."

I stood outside by the entrance and looked around the empty streets. There was nobody here. I saw a black sedan right across the street from me and frowned. Who was it? I must check. I turned just as my phone buzzed in my pocket. I answered it.

"Edward Cullen."

"Hello, Edward."

Laurent Scott.


I stood there motionless as I turned to look around. He had to be somewhere here. But I couldn't see him anywhere. I tightened the phone in my hand and took a deep breath.

"Hello Mr. Scott." I said in an even voice.

"Edward, it's good to hear from you. How are you?" I didn't answer and heard him laugh. My heart was pounding in my ears. "I see you got Burton with you."

"Yes."

"I appreciate your work. You are quite a cunning, young man."

"Thank you."

"You see the car across from you?"

"Yes."

"Could you please get in?" I saw the back door of the car open. I looked around. There were very few people around.

"Why should I get in?"

"I don't have intentions to kill you, no. Just need to have a little chat."

"We are chatting now." He laughed again.

"There is a man walking towards you on the left, reading a book. There is a gun he is holding in the book." I turned to see it and there was a man. He caught my eye and then went back to reading. "There is a man walking on the right, he has a knife in his pocket. Both will do their work in the next thirty seconds if you don't sit in the car." The call ended and I slid my phone in my pocket.

What do I do? I knew I won't run inside but I also didn't want to get hurt for Bella or Eli.

Oh dear lord.

So I sincerely crossed the street and sat inside the car. I saw the man coming from the right, slid his hand out of his pocket. And the one on the left, throw the book in the dustbin. I turned to see who was inside with me but was caught by blinding darkness.

I opened my eyes and it was dark. I realized there was something black covering my face. Where were they taking me? I heard the person sitting next to me shift a little.

"Hands at the back." Was all he said in a normal voice and I obliged. He tied my hands up with a rope and I sighed as it was a little rough. Good. My fingers reached in the back pocket of my pants and I removed a tracking chip, letting it fall between the seat and me.

About fifteen minutes later the car stopped. The door opened and they asked me to get out. God, I felt like a terrorist. I got out of the car and one of them grabbed my arm as they led me to a closed arena, hopefully. I heard the ding of an elevator and I tapped my foot as we went somewhere.

The elevators opened and we stepped out. The first and the most expected thing they did was check me. I realized they took my phone, wallet, pen, watch and jacket. They respectfully led me to sit on a chair and unknotted the thing tied on my hands. They pulled the black cloth over my head and I squinted my eyes, before completely opening them.

I was sitting in a brightly lit room. There were number of men standing around me. There was no window to the room but I could hear the water breeze. We were definitely near a lake or the beach.

There sitting right across from me was Laurent Scott in his mid-sixties. His platinum hair was neatly combed, his dark eyes were staring at me amused, I could see his lips curl into a smile around his goatee. He wore an expensive suit and there were number of gold chains around his neck. It was the first time I was meeting him.

"Edward, so good to see you." He extended his hand and I shook it with mine.

"You too."

"So you must be wondering why I have got you here all of a sudden."

"I sure am."

"Well, I have a deal for you." I maintained a blank face.

"Sure."

"Would you like to hear it?"

"Definitely." I kept my answers short.

"Hmm, well you must know James Smith very well." I nodded tightly. "I have some unfinished business with that man."

"I am aware of that." He laughed.

"Of course you are. Now I need him and you can help me get him." I stared at him.

"Why should I?"

"Well, if you give me James Smith alive, you'll be pretty relieved yourself."

"I'm confused."

"He is my last business in Seattle. In America. You get him to me, I'll partire." He'll leave?

"Why?"

"Nothing left to control anymore. I'm better off in Italia. I'm done here."

"Why should I believe you?"

"You will have to. And I never lie. You can't find me after this. No one ever has. You'll just waste your time, so will the FBI. Get me James Smith, I'll clear every trace of me from America only to never return back."

"Why did you take a shot at Bella?"

"I needed Isabella. To get you. That's why the lady went to her place in New York but you were pretty ready. You don't have a choice. Lie to your people, do whatever it takes."

How could I lie to people I've been working for such a long time? I had earned the position where I was today. I never lied to them, how could I? Just to have him leave the country? His works are not so holy that he should be allowed to leave the country.

I knew Laurent was just trying to manipulate me to get him James as well as find a safe source to escape. Nobody would raise a question knowing the CIA was involved in this. How dare he ask me that?

"It's not possible."

"A lie that is half-truth is darkest of all lies. You know you can do it." I can, it was pretty simple, but I won't.

"You were going to kill her."

"Love is the biggest weakness, Edward."

"I can't do it." I shook my head. He just smiled at me. My phone rang somewhere behind me and a man handed it to me. I looked over at Laurent.

"Answer it. It might be important." I looked down to see Bella's name flashing. I answered it and cleared my throat.

"Bella."

"Edward, I can't find Eli, there is so much rush today, I have no idea what to do! I'm searching for her from the past twenty minutes." Bella sobbed on the other line and I paled.

What was going on? Did Laurent do this? He took away my baby knowing I would say no. What can I do now? I knew Bella was waiting for me to answer so I composed my voice.

"Where are you, darling?"

"I'm at the mall. Alice wanted to meet me, she had some urgent work so we were just walking around and I can't see her, Edward. Anywhere." I looked over at Laurent and he was still smiling. He definitely did this.

"Where are you standing right now?" I asked her.

"Tiffany&Co.."

"Tell me, Edward." Laurent said and I ran a hand through my hair.

I could hear Bella crying and this man was expecting an answer. Love is the biggest weakness, Edward. He knew my weakness. He knew I couldn't say no when the lives of either of my girls were in danger. I got in the motherfucking car because of them. He did this on purpose. He wasn't getting out of this country alive. That was for sure.

"Edward? Are you there?" I heard Bella ask. Eli. Oh, god. I was scared for my little girl. What if they hurt her? Or… no, I couldn't think about something worse. Laurent gave me no choice.

"Okay." I answered Laurent and he sighed.

"Did she see around Barnes and Noble?" Laurent smirked and I sighed with relief. My princess was safe.

"Love, check around Barnes and Noble, please."

"Edward, I checked the floor ten times," I could hear her walking. "I didn't see her ther―Eli! Oh my god, Edward's she's here!" I could hear Bella crying.

"She's here, Edward." I could hear her running. "Oh, baby. Where'd you go? Mommy was looking for you everywhere. Don't ever leave my hand again."

"Mommy, I go with nice man." Eli answered in her sweet voice. She sounded perfectly fine. Thank goodness.

"What nice man?"

"Bella?" I said and heard some fumbling.

"Edward, I'll see you at home. I love you."

"I love you too, baby." I ended the call and I kept the phone in my pocket.

"It was great to make a deal with you, Edward." He stood up and I stood up too. We shook hands and he nodded at me. I stared into his eyes for a second. He had no idea what was waiting for him to even try to use my girls for his political manipulation.

"But, I have a condition." I said and Laurent smiled at me.

"Yes?"

"Nothing happens to Bella or Eli, nobody even touches them."

"You have my word and I never back out on my word."

"Alright."

This piece of shit better be prepared for what I have planned for him.


I was dropped off where they picked me up from and I checked the watch to see it was almost seven. I need to stop the search on Laurent Scott and start with James all the way. I called Bella the first thing as I entered the office.

"Hey."

"Are you home? Are you safe? Baby, you scared me. Why didn't you tell me? Or call Gale? You had me on pins and needles."

"I'm sorry but I left in a hurry and then she got lost."

"Eli's fine now?"

"Surprisingly, yes. She even had a candy in her hand when I found her. I had no idea who gave it to her. I got scared to death." She whispered and I could hear her voice get heavy.

"It won't happen again, I promise."

"How do you know that?"

"Because I got a word from somebody about it. You don't have to worry anymore. I made sure you will be fine." By putting the case in danger.

"Okay, when are you coming home? It's almost time for dinner."

"Angel, I'll come home late tonight, I'm sorry."

"Just what I thought." She muttered and hung up. Shit. Angry girlfriend.

Everyone was furiously working, I could see Phil and Jacob on their phones and so were the rest. I had no idea what they were so determined about but it was good to see them work so much. Rest of them had the map of the city. I walked in and Jake's gaze fell on me.

"Where the fuck were you? We went crazy!" All let out a collective sigh when they looked at me. Jacob walked over and stared at me. "Where were you, Edward?"

"I was out."

"Out? Why are your hands so red? What the fuck happened?" I placed my hand on his shoulder and told him to move a little. He did. Thankfully.

I grabbed a bottle of water as I sat on the chair and everyone turned their chairs to me, shifting closer. I paused drinking the water and sighed, keeping the bottle away.

"Edward, where did you disappear?" Samantha asked and I ran a hand through my hair.

"I met Laurent Scott."

Jacob glared at me. "Tell us everything."


I unlocked the door and stepped inside the quiet house. I was dead on my feet. I locked the door and made my way to the living room. Only a ceiling light was on. I drank some cold water and made my way to my old bedroom.

I stepped inside to see Eli fast asleep under the covers. I walked over and placed a soft kiss on her head. I had no idea what to imagine if she would've disappeared today. My baby. She stirred a little so I stroked her hair until her breathing became heavy again.

I dreaded with every footstep to go upstairs, knowing Bella was going to be mad as hell at me. I was the worst person in the world. I was lucky enough that nothing was happening to them anytime soon now. All I wanted to right now was hold Bella in my arms and never let her go but instead she was going to throw things at me, for sure.

I frowned when I saw dim yellow lights gleaming from the crack of the door below. I was seeing colors now? I knocked on the door softly before I turned the knob and stepped inside.

Wow.

There were scented candles lit everywhere. I could smell lavender, rose, chocolate, almost every beautiful fragrance there is. The room was glowing but not because of the candles, but because of the angel standing in front of me. My sexy angel.

Bella was a vision. She wore a black satin kimono that barely reached her thighs, making her legs look miles long. The tie was loosely wrapped at her waist and I could see the beautiful lingerie she wore.

Her breasts were barely concealed in the cups of what little she wore. The lace covered the rest of the upper torso I could see. All of it. The front was strapped until her clothing disappeared in the kimono. Her hair now open, flew down her back in gentle curves, her lips were a luscious red color and those beautiful brown eyes were filled with a sensuous stare.

I couldn't form a word in my head or get one out. This was the first time I had ever been speechless looking at a woman. I just stared at her completely dazed while she had an amused smile on her face.

Bella. I looked down at the legs that went on and groaned internally. Fuck me. She was wearing these sexy black heels that were making me really hot. I just wanted to rip everything off and throw her on the bed but I wasn't able to move.

"I was waiting for you, Edward." Her voice almost made me moan. She knew the effect she was having on me. "It took you really long." She whispered and walked over to me.

Bella held my face in her hands and placed a soft kiss on my mouth. I finally got out of my stupor and gave her a wide grin. She blushed and her fingers reached for my shirt. She started unbuttoning it slowly, brushing her fingers against my skin.

"You look so beautiful." I whispered, stroking her cheek and she looked up at me.

"Really?"

"So beautiful, it hurts."

She finally unbuttoned my shirt and I slid it off me. She took off my watch and kept it on the nightstand. Bella smiled at me and I couldn't help drown my mind in the difficult situation I'm put into this evening. She meant more to me than anything in this world. How could I risk her?

Because of Bella I was here today. So in love. She made me a better person. She did so much for me and I couldn't help be thankful for her but it's going to come with a price. I need to think about something, try to solve the biggest mystery of this case. James.

Everyone at the agency was completely understandable of what happened and they had already started searching everything about James. We were going to do the best we can.

"Baby, what's wrong?" Bella whispered and I pulled her in my arms swiftly, hugging her tightly. Her body fit perfectly against me and I felt the soft satin against my skin which she wore.

I buried my face against her neck and took deep breaths, trying to inhale her wonderful scent. Her one hand stroked my hair and the other one rubbed my back slowly. My chest felt heavy from the emotions I was feeling and tears brimmed my eyes.

I pulled back and cupped her face in my hands. She stared intently into my eyes, gauging my emotions and I had no clue what she was understanding.

"I love you, Bella. So much."

"I love you too, Edward." Her brown eyes fell on my hands and she gasped, taking a step back. She grasped my hands in hers and stared at them.

"What happened to your wrists?"

"Not important right now. Come here." I murmured and pulled her to me.

My lips met hers and my heart expanded in my chest. Her arms wrapped around my neck and she pulled me closer to her. My fingers eagerly explored her body, feeling her soft skin against the satin and I bet she could feel how hard I was against her thigh.

Her tongue entered my mouth and I moaned softly as she tugged my hair. My one hand held her face to me while the other one travelled inside her kimono to feel the lace.

"Edward." She murmured heavily and I smiled, showering short kisses over her neck. I moved my lips along hers but didn't kiss them making her whimper. I kissed her upper lip and then sucked on her bottom lip making her grasp my arms tightly.

"Tell me, angel. What do you want?"

"You." I smiled and pulled back to look at her.

"You have me."

"Touch me." She gasped, breathlessly as she stared into my darkened eyes. My hands stroked her cheek, going down to her slender neck, I touched the satin of her kimono and blushed covered her cheeks.

"May I?" I played with the tie of her kimono and she nodded.

"Please." I grinned and unwrapped her robe, which left me almost drooling after her form.

Her little thing barely reached her upper thighs, showing off her entire body in the lace. She wore a black thong that looked oh so sexy on her. Her eyes shone the same carnal desire I had for her tonight.

I turned and shut the door, locking it up. Just us. No crazy women to intrude even in the morning. I found her standing by the edge of the bed and I placed a hot kiss on her shoulder. I trailed kisses from the shoulders to the top of her cleavage.

My fingers reached for the thong and I growled softly when I felt her soaking wet. Oh this woman was driving me crazy. I made her sit on the edge of the bed and she did. I knelt in front of her, holding myself at her eye-level.

Bella connected her lips to mine and we kissed with a different ferocity this time. We went wild as we pulled each other closer and tried to breath between our frantic kisses. Her hands made sure my head never moved away from hers and I made sure she was seated by the edge of the bed.

I dragged my lips along her collarbone, nibbling on her skin as I pulled the straps of her dress down. I ran my nose along her neck, breathing her in. I placed open-mouthed kisses along her chest and pulled one of her nipples in my mouth. I palmed the other one in my hand, pinching and rubbing it between my fingers.

I ran my tongue along her nipple, feeling it harden like pebble in my mouth. I pressed soft kisses over her soft breasts and she moaned, arching her back, thrusting them towards me. She was so perfect. I paid equal attention to both her breasts before placing kisses on her stomach over the lace.

I grabbed the hem of it and pulled it up until her smooth stomach was exposed to me. I showered kisses over her stomach and nuzzled my nose against it. Her hands stroked my hair and I placed one soft kiss against it.

"Your skin is so soft here." I murmured against her stomach and smiled. I opened her legs and could see her dripping wet for me. I lifted her legs and placed them over my shoulder as I opened them further.

I kissed the inside of her thigh and she moaned clutching the sheets tightly in her hands. I sucked on the soft skin of her creamy thighs on both sides before I just brushed my lips against the waistband of her thong. She whimpered a little.

"Love, you are so wet." I placed soft kisses against the outline of her thong and she squirmed a little. I placed a kiss on her mound and she moaned softly. Her fabric was completely wet and I trailed kisses over her thong-covered clit.

"Edward, please." She murmured and I looked up at her.

"Please what, Bella? Tell me."

"Take it off, please." She panted and I grazed my teeth against the waistband again. With exaggerated slowness, I pulled it down until her ankles and she kicked it away. I placed a soft kiss on her thigh before pulled her lower body closer to my mouth.

My lips made their way across her clit, kissing over it on every spot leaving her breathless. She grasped my hair and pulled me to her but I kissed anywhere but there. I looked up to see frustration clear on her red face.

I shifted closer and ran my tongue along her folds. She moaned loudly and clamped my face between her thighs. Bella moved her legs away and I looked up at her. Tears gathered in her eyes and she looked away embarrassed.

"I'm sorry."

"It's okay, baby. It's okay." I said soothingly and leaned up to place a soft kiss on her lips.

"I've never had anyone… you know." She blushed and I smiled stroking her hair.

"I'll go slow, okay?"

"Okay." She whimpered and I kissed her lips again before going back between her thighs, keeping them on my shoulder. I could get used to a sight like this.

"So beautiful." I murmured, kissing the inside of her thigh. I moved closer and felt her muscles tense up. I placed a soft kiss and she trembled. I slowly licked my tongue across her folds and she gasped, gripping the sheets tighter.

I blew on it gently and she moaned. I licked my tongue slowly and gently increased the pace around her hot center. I prodded my tongue inside her and she laid down on the bed letting out short breaths.

"Oh god, Edward." Her heels dug against the small of my back as she drew me closer to her clit. I sucked on the soft skin, feeling her delicious scent wrap around me. Mm, she tasted so sweet.

"Edward." Was all she could pant out as I continued my assault on her wet center. I slipped in one finger inside her and she literally screamed my name. Hmm, she was very sensitive. Which was nice. I could feel her nerves tightening around my fingers and mouth so I added another finger inside her, increasing the pace.

"Shit, Edward I'm close." She whispered and cried out as she came over my mouth and fingers. I licked my lips as I cleaned her up and her legs were like jell-o over my shoulder.

"Hi." I leaned over to stare at her blissful face. She placed a soft kiss against my neck.

"Hey."

"Good?" She chuckled.

"That was by far the most earth-shattering experience of my life and you are asking if I'm good?" She teased and I laughed, pecking her lips softly.

"So happy to be of your service."

"You liked the candles?"

"I loved everything about tonight. The skimpy thing you are wearing, the candles, my beautiful girlfriend. But there is just one thing missing." She looked at me nervously.

"What?"

"Oh, Bella." I laughed and kissed her lips softly before standing up. I walked over to the CD collection and knew just the CD I needed. I walked over to the device and quickly changed the CD.

The familiar saxophone music flitted to our ears and Bella smiled at me, light blush covering her cheeks. I walked back over to her and she looped her fingers in the belt loops of my pants to pull me on top of her.

I stroked her cheek and our lip met in a tender kiss. Her lips parted as she kissed me back, wrapping her arms around my neck and her breathing hitched when she felt me grinding against her.

Bella wrapped her legs around my waist and the heels dug against my back. But they were far too sexy to take off. We kissed as I gently brushed my thumbs over her hardened nipples and leaned down to place a soft kiss on each of them.

"You're wearing too much clothes for us to do something." She mumbled and I chuckled.

"Let's rectify the situation, shall we?" I pulled back from her, as she dropped her legs from around me and removed my shoes and socks. I took off my pants and boxers and leaned over to kiss her again.

She moaned as she felt my erection pressing against her and looked into my eyes. I tucked stray pieces of hair behind her ear and leaned my forehead against hers.

"I love you."

"I love you too, Bella."

"I want you, please." Bella murmured and I nodded as I cupped her face in my hands. I brushed my lips against hers and filled into her in one swift motion.

We moved slowly, taking our time and I just wanted it to last for as long as possible. I had no idea what I would do anymore if not for her. There were so many things to figure out and so little time. At least I was relieved that she was going to be safe now. I can believe Laurent on that part. The man had never backed out on his words. I knew that from his past records. I needed to tell Alex. That's what he was here for. Laurent Scott.

But I tried to get rid of all those thoughts as I stared at Bella. Her luscious hair that were fanned out on the mattress, her brown eyes that were shied away as they were closed, her cute little nose, her parted lips that were gasping for breath.

I don't know for how long we moved, holding in, making it last, thrusting softly until we came undone against each other. Bella held onto me tightly as we tried to get down from the heightened emotions. I never felt better.

I pulled out of her slowly and tucked her in bed close to me. She stared at my face, trying to figure out the turmoil of thoughts I was having but I bet she couldn't comprehend what was going on.

"You look so lost." She whispered as she gazed at me with those big brown eyes. I chuckled.

"I'm right here."

"The music is still on."

"You don't like it?" Bella blushed.

"I love it. Kenny G, are you a fan?" I smirked.

"No, I just used the soundtrack to score girls." She glared at me, making me laugh. "I love his music, it's good, isn't it?"

"I didn't know my boyfriend was this romantic."

"Well, you can say that." I kissed her lips softly. We continued staring at each other until she let out a yawn.

"I'm tired."

"Must be because of the decorations you did to the room." She blushed and snuggled closer to me.

"And also deciding what to wear."

"You got more than one?" I asked eagerly and she nodded. Excellent.

"Many, actually. But then, you'll have to have patience for that." I pouted. "Didn't somebody tell you? Patience is virtue." I rolled my eyes.

"Yeah, okay. Good night." She smiled and closed her eyes.

"Good night, I love you."

"I love you too, Bella."


I tapped my foot urgently as I waited for Bella to get out of the closet. God, she was not listening to me today. I was already late plus I had no energy to argue with her. About ten minutes later she stepped out looking beautiful in a red pencil dress.

"Bella, for the last time, I can't take her with me."

"Honey, please? I can't keep her with me. My whole attention would be on her." Bella said as she checked her purse.

"Ask Rose to reschedule it."

"No. I already did. I was supposed to meet her on Friday. I can't keep doing that."

"Bella, is it really that important?"

"Yes, for me it is." She walked over to me with an even stare. "Why should I always have to stay home and take care of her? She's our child. Maybe you should give our daughter some attention. She hasn't seen you since yesterday afternoon. She missed you."

"Bella, you don't have to get so defensive. All I'm saying is that, that is not the place I should take her. We'll be working."

"Eli is such an angel. She'll be no trouble to you." I raised an eyebrow.

"Then why can't you take her?"

"I, uh, doesn't matter. You take her." She said hastily.

"We can call mom and ask."

"Done it. Esme and Carlisle both aren't home."

"Emmett?"

"He has a business to run. Rose will be with me, Drew is at preschool."

"Alice?"

"It's Monday, sweetie. No one has time. You need to take her with you." She whispered and kissed my lips softly.

"Baby, please?"

"Edward, I wish. But just this one time." Bella said and she unplugged her phone from the charger. She kept it in her purse and looked at me.

"How about this, we'll go ask her." I suggested and she smiled, nodding her head.

"We both know what she's going to say but sure." I groaned internally.

I can't take her to the CIA field office. We search about drugs and guns! She's three. We made our way to Eli's room and found her combing the hair of one of her dolls. No matter how perfect she was, I just can't take her.

"Hi, baby." Bella said as she walked over to the bed. Eli kissed her cheek and smiled at her.

"Mommy, we go?"

"Um, honey well, that's the problem. Now, you can either go with mommy or daddy so you have to choose." Eli looked over at me and I gave her a smile. I could see it in her eyes that she was going to want to come to the office with me.

"Mommy is going to buy you an ice-cream after her work is done." I blurted and she smiled, clearly her mind had changed.

"Mommy!" Eli clapped her hands and Bella glared at me.

"That's not fair." I shrugged and gave her a smirk.

"You know what, that's it," She walked over to me. "Rock, paper, scissor." I laughed and stroked her hair.

"Really, love?"

"Do we have any other choice?"

"We could flip for it."

"This is simpler come on." I looked down at our outstretched hands and saw I had paper but Bella had a V shown on her hand. Great. I lost.

"I guess, daddy will be buying you two ice-creams, sweetheart." Eli squealed and clapped her hands again. Bella just smiled and I stared at her with an unreadable expression. How could she do this? She wrapped her arms around my neck and pecked my lips softly.

"I'm sorry, baby. But, please just for today. I'm not getting enough time for my stuff and I just kind of wanted to be duty-free for today. Can you understand?" I sighed and leaned our heads.

"Of course, it's okay. I'll take her with me. I love you."

"Thank you so much." She kissed my lips quickly. "I love you too. I'll get my coat. Is your car here?"

"Yeah, don't worry. Is there anything she needs, for you know when she'll be there?" I asked awkwardly and she laughed. She walked over to the couch of the room and came back to me with a bag.

"This is her bag. I packed it this morning. Everything's in there. Don't let her dress get dirty, it's too cute."

"I can't promise you that." I muttered and walked over to the bed where Eli was. She jumped into my arms and gave me a hug.

"Hi, princess."

"Daddy, you comes home late." She pouted and I kissed her cheek.

"Sorry, baby but daddy gets you for the whole day today."

"Weally?"

"Yes, really. Say bye to mommy then we have to go." I carried her over to Bella and grabbed her bag just as Eli gave a quick kiss to Bella.

"Bye, sweetie. I'll miss you." Bella whispered and Eli waved at her.

"Miss you too mommy, bye."

"Bye."

"Edward, get home early. I'll give you a call. Don't give her anything to eat at wrong timings, it'll ruin her schedule. Try to make her eat at least the vegetables in the burger, if you have it. Not too much candies, just a little. There is a juice box in the bag. Make her drink that. She's had breakfast so don't give her anything just yet." Bella threw the instructions at me and I nodded.

"Don't worry, angel. We'll be fine. Princess, tell mommy to relax."

"Mommy, welax. Daddy and I have fun!" I laughed and kissed her cheek.

"That's right. Bye, Bella. Call me if anything comes up." I said as I exited the room.


I turned to Eli to see her clutching the stuffed unicorn in one hand as she gazed at me intently. Her blue eyes held so much innocence. I sighed. She was so adorable.

"Princess, remember to not go too far away from me. Stay near daddy."

"Otay."

"Get me if you have any problems." She nodded. "Okay, are you ready?" She nodded, giving me a smile. I chuckled and got out of the car. I unbuckled her car seat and let her out.

"Daddy up." I lifted her in my arms and she hugged me tightly, hiding her face against my neck. I carried her to the elevators and I could feel all eyes on me. I sighed. Great.

When the doors to my floor opened, I quickly went to the place we were working over at. I entered the cubicles and everybody turned to stare at me. Well, not me. Eli. Jake spoke on the phone at some distance and Eli grinned at me. I nodded and she squirmed in my arms so I set her down.

"Jakey!" She squealed as she went running to him and Jacob turned shocked, but soon recovered as he gave her a tight hug. Now, everyone had turned their heads in their direction.

"How come Eli is here today?" Heidi asked and I chuckled.

"Babysitting duties. Everyone is busy." I shook my head.

"Everyone, this is my best friend Eli!" Jacob said out loud and Eli stared at everyone shyly. "And yeah, she calls that guy daddy." He pointed at me and I smiled.

"Very funny, Jake."

"Her dress is so cute." Samantha said as she stood next to me and I laughed.

"Let her know that. Anyway, Victoria?" I asked and she nodded.

"I can definitely say she is in Seattle. Her phone gave her location for Seattle, before she switched it off. She tried calling Bella Swan's number again but we had it blocked so there is no problem with that."

"Hmm, where was she exactly?"

"I don't have the exact details. And yeah, the rental service from Renton called, said James was there to give his car back." I frowned.

"What about the one Malcolm had?"

"No, he didn't give that one yet."

"Who is he currently getting along with?"

"Leo Sanders, the one from the shopping mall. He was seen with James at a couple of places."

"Okay." I need to call Alex. "Minimize it." I muttered when I saw Eli running to me. She climbed on my lap and I kissed her hair.

"What happened?" I asked and she shook her head staring at Samantha. "That's Samantha."

"Hi." Eli gave her a hesitant smile and Samantha smiled back instantly.

"Hey Eli, that's such a cute dress."

"Fank you, Sammy." She just laughed, not mind one bit on the nickname Eli just gave.

"You're welcome, pretty girl."

"Daddy?"

"Hmm?"

"I sit wif you?"

"Daddy has some work, baby. Why don't you stay with Jake until then?" She pouted sadly and I sighed.

"Hey, Eli do you want to see something cool?" Samantha said and Eli nodded, to which she opened some coloring game app telling Eli how to play it.

"Excellent, so when are we working?" I asked and she rolled her eyes as we both watched Eli color some fish on the screen.

"It's not everyday a cute little girl comes here." I shook my head and gently set Eli down. She looked at me and I kissed her cheek. I made her sit back on the chair and turned to leave.

"Daddy?" I turned back to her. "You no stay?"

"I'll be back in a few minutes, angel." She nodded and turned back to the computer screen. I quickly went over to Tim.

"Did you find something with the address?" I asked and he nodded.

"Bob Fetcher. It belongs to a Bob Fetcher."

"What about his wife?"

"Nothing mentioned in that cause. But except for her name, I can't find anything. Her phone was untraceable."

"How is that possible?"

"I have no idea, this shit is crazy. I can't find her any fucking place."

"Yeah, just don't swear loudly." I muttered and he chuckled.

"Couldn't imagine you with a kid." I laughed.

"Yeah, I get that a lot." Eli laughed loudly about something and we both turned to see her on Samantha's lap as she did something, while Heidi and Jacob stood behind her, bickering about something yet not leaving Eli.

"This is exactly what I was afraid of."

"Jacob and Heidi, fighting?"

"That's a daily ritual, no. My daughter being a distraction."

"Come on, she's cute. Of course everyone is itching to talk to her." Tim said and I raised an eyebrow. "I want to. But later. Work first, I promise." I rolled my eyes.

"Like that is going to happen." I looked over at Eli who was so happy, her joy couldn't be contained while others stole glances at her, forgetting we had to find about a mental redhead who ran from a rehab. God, my daughter was really going to be trouble.

And the day had just fucking started.


So? Like it? Hate it? Let me know!

I would really appreciate some reviews to the chapter I write because I would then know how you feel about the story or what plots would you really like to read for every chapter.

Let me tell you right now, the aunt is a good person. You'll see. So don't get suspicious for once. Some people can be that good.

Next chapter could possibly be mostly about Eli, because well, I know you readers love her but there is something much more interesting coming forth in Chapter 31, which I'm not going to disclose right now.

So we have the pregnancy tests, let's see when she takes them!

Please REVIEW, let me know. I genuinely expected more reviews for my previous chapter, but never mind. Do review for this one!

Until next time, guys.

Love Always,
Paint the Walls.