WE'RE THE CULLENS.
Disclaimer: Stephanie Meyer owns it all.
BELLA
I shivered as the cool breeze passed and wrapped my arms around myself. I leaned my head against the doorway of the backdoor to watch the rain fall on the lawn. I looked up at the gray sky, filled with countless clouds that rumbled as they floated.
Rain never looked so beautiful in Seattle. The green grass held a soothing fragrance to it and I smiled closing my eyes as light droplets sprinkled on my face. I heard the front door open and my heart skipped a beat. Edward was home!
I turned quickly but disappointment flooded in me when I saw it was just Matt. I grinned at him. He was a wonderful man. No wonder Edward was so fond of him.
"Mrs. Cullen, your kids." He announced and shifted away to show me Eli and Seth.
I glared at them, watching their soaking, muddy clothes. Even Seth! Yeah, well but he was just a kid. Both looked so adorable but I wasn't going to encourage this behavior. I walked over to them.
"Where did you find them, Matt?"
"Front lawn by the trees, Mrs. Cullen." I smiled at him.
"How many times have I told you? Call me Bella." He chuckled.
"Yes, Mrs. Cullen." I felt a tug on my dress and looked down at my daughter.
"What is it, Eli?"
"Sowwy." She pouted and I smiled, shaking my head.
"It doesn't work every day, baby. Why don't you both stay this way until daddy gets home. He'll be here any minute now." Her blue eyes widened with horror and she shook her head.
"No, mommy. Pwease. Daddy get mad."
"Bella, I'll take a shower real quick, okay?" Seth smiled and I chuckled, ruffling his wet hair.
"Nope. Let Edward see this." He sighed.
"Last time, we won't get dirty in the rain again, we promise." He looked down at Eli, who nodded.
"Pinky pwomise, mommy." I sighed.
"Okay, take off your shoes and socks right here, I'll go get a towel for the hair, don't get your muddy footsteps in the house." I muttered and went to the guest room. I grabbed two towels and walked over to see them getting out of their shoes.
"Thank you, Matt." He smiled and nodded before he left.
I handed a towel to Seth and knelt in front of my little baby. I quickly dried her hair with the towel and handed them both dry flip flops to enter the house with. Seth quickly went to his room to take a shower and I stood in front of Eli.
"Come on now, little miss. Bath time." She yawned and nodded her head. "And then nap." She made a face and I chuckled.
"Mommy up."
"No, you'll get mommy's dress all dirty." I held her little hand in mine as we went to her current room. I helped her get out of the wet clothes and into the hot tub. She giggled when the warm water made her shivering body relax.
"Better?" She nodded. "Turn to mommy, we need to clean up your pretty face."
It was thirty minutes later that I was carrying a drowsy daughter to her bed. I helped her put on a lime colored pullover and white skirt and settled her on my lap. I grabbed a comb and and brushed it through her soft hair.
"Mommy sweepy." Eli said and turned to hug me tightly. I wrapped my arms around her and rocked her little body. I kept the comb away and watched Eli close her eyes. I stroked her hair and her breathing got heavier.
"Honey, mommy will put you to bed, okay?" She nodded slightly and I laid her under the covers. I kissed her forehead and tucked her in properly.
I made sure all the windows were locked and drapes were closed. I kept the door open and made my way downstairs to check on Seth. I knocked on the door once and opened the door to see him fast asleep on his stomach. I chuckled and walked over to pull the duvet over his form.
With a mug full of coffee, I finally relaxed on the couch. I wondered why Benji and Gale weren't here yet. They did say something about work but I had no idea what. Edward was still not home and I really hoped Leah hadn't killed him.
The thunder crackled outside and I smiled staring at the heavy rain. It had been a while since I had a good look at such rainy weather. It reminded me a lot of Forks. I sighed. Edward went to Forks. Part me of really thought he was right about me not going right away although I was more concerned about him going with Leah.
What if she told him some horrible stuff about me? Edward was really fond of her and if she told him something, he would believe her. Is that why she took him to Forks? To prove a point? Because even Jake didn't accompany them. I groaned and gulped down my coffee only to keep the mug away.
I made my way to the back door and leaned against the doorway again. I couldn't take my eyes off the lively grass. It wouldn't hurt to just step a little outside now, would it? Even the kids came in all wet and sloppy.
Oh, what the hell. I took off my heels and smiled when I felt the soft grass tickle beneath my feet. The rain sprinkled on me and I chuckled. I walked a little farther away from the house and shivered a little as I felt the wet dress cling to my body.
I closed my eyes and took a cleansing breath, trying to get my mind off everything around me. The rain was soothing, it was calming me. I suddenly screamed when I felt a hand on my waist and turned to see my personal angel standing, his lips curling into a gorgeous smile.
Edward looked utterly handsome in the soaking rain, his copper hair were darkened due to the water and his green eyes glowed brightly in the pale weather. His black shirt clung to his chest, making him look even hotter. I sighed internally. So delicious.
"Liking the rain?" He cocked his head to one side as he asked me but I couldn't respond staring at him. "Bella?" I continued gazing and he let out a musical chuckle. "You're soaking, do you realize that?" I nodded and he walked over to me. "Come on, let's get you inside."
Edward rested his hand on my waist and a charge sparked around us. I could see it in his eyes as he realized it too. He pulled me flush against him and stroked my cheek, wiping the raindrops falling on it.
"Do you have any idea how beautiful you look right now?" He whispered, leaning his forehead against mine. I blushed and stared at his lips.
The clouds rumbled but I held onto him, my arms wrapping around his neck. Edward leaned forward and tilted his head, touching his lips against mine. My eyes fluttered shut and I kissed him back softly.
Something was different about his kiss. How he bunched the dress at my waist, how tensed his back was. Hmm. I opened my mouth for his tongue to slide in and tangle with mine. I moaned when he sucked on my bottom lip, grazing it against his teeth.
My hands trailed to his soaking shirt, roaming over his chest and resting on his waist. His lips were pressed against mine passionately, I could sense his relief and his tension. Even though he was kissing me, his mind was miles away. I broke off our kiss. He frowned and stared into my eyes.
"I'm here," He nodded. "You stay here too." A smile formed on his lips. "Now kiss me like you mean it."
Edward crashed his lips against mine and I was fighting for breath within minutes as his lips trailed down to my neck. I closed my eyes feeling his hot breath against my shivering body. I trembled when the tips of his hair touched my skin.
I brought his lips back to mine and the rain made it impossible to gasp for breathing. I could get used to this now. His cold hands rested on my hips and he smiled against my lips. I smiled too and we pulled back to breathe.
"Your dress is all wet," Edward murmured. "And it's white," I blushed as I just realized that. "It's very-"
"Transparent?" I squeaked and he chuckled.
"I was going for the word appealing but we can use yours."
"Maybe we should get inside, I need to take a shower now." I mumbled and he held my hand in his as we made our way back in.
"Where are the kids?"
"Fast asleep. Matt found them all sloppy and soaked in the rain so he got them in. Both fell asleep soon after." I muttered as he followed me upstairs quickly. I stepped inside the bathroom and Edward followed.
"Well, the weather is really beautiful." Edward whispered as he unbuttoned his shirt. My teeth chattered from the cold and he chuckled. "Take off your dress, you're shivering." I couldn't because of the zipper and my hair got stuck in it from the rain.
"Help me."
He gave an impish grin as he walked over to me. I rolled my eyes and turned around. The dress was pooled at my feet within seconds. I shook my head. Of course he was good at that.
"All done. Shower?"
"Yes, please although you are overdressed." I said as I turned to look at him. Edward quickly started undressing when I was suddenly reminded of his trip to Forks. "How was Forks?"
"Surprisingly less rainy than Seattle." I stared at his thoughtful expression.
"What happened when you met Sue?" He froze and looked up at me.
"I, uh got to know some information about your father." My curiosity piqued. Something about dad, maybe.
"Oh? What is it?" I grinned and his eyes softened for some reason when he took in my expression. He walked over and cradled my face in his hands.
"Baby, we'll talk about it later, alright?" I nodded. "I love you." He gave me a chaste kiss. I frowned. Was there something wrong?
"I love you too." He smiled and nodded.
"I know." Edward leaned his forehead against mine and closed his eyes to let out a shaky breath. Okay, now he was scaring me.
"Shower?" I asked softly and he opened his green eyes into mine.
"Yes, take off the rest of your clothes. Let me get you all cleaned up." I raised an eyebrow. "I promise, no 'funny business'." I blushed and rolled my eyes.
Like that's going to happen.
I put on a navy blue jumper to go with my dark wash jeans and rushed out of the closet. I snuggled against Edward on the bed and closed my eyes. He smiled against my hair and pulled me closer to him. I felt warmer when he pulled the snug duvet over our bodies.
"You are so tensed." I murmured feeling his eyes studying the heavy rain outside.
"I got to know some things, I should've figured out sooner." I opened my eyes and stared at his grim expression.
"What is it, baby?"
"Well, I went to meet Leah's mother, as you know. Do you remember her?" I was taken back to my memories.
"Of course, she was Harry Clearwater's wife but he passed away when I was kid, dad was pretty upset about it. He was dad's best friend and he felt even worse for Sue because she had to raise two daughters on her own." Edward hummed in agreement.
"Your dad was very close to Sue, I guess." I frowned.
"They were good friends, that's all I know."
Dad did visit her place to help her with something. Leah was civil with me until my parents were alive. What happened later, I wonder. I never really gave it a thought as I was already grieving about my dead parents.
"Now, what I might say may come out as a shock, but please be calm about it." He cautioned and I cuddled closer to him.
"Just hold me, that'll keep me calm enough." He kissed my nose and tucked me under his chin.
"Okay, uh, where do I start," He muttered to himself. "Your parents had problems since you were a kid. So your dad would speak to Sue about it."
"They did?" I whispered and he nodded.
"Yes, baby. They grew very close. They, uh, had an affair." He mumbled and I stared at him shocked, the words barely registering in my brain. My dad could do that? Cheat on my mom?
"You're lying," I glared at Edward and moved away from him. "My dad never cheated on my mom, he was a good man. You're just manipulating his name to get around your case." He frowned at me.
"Why would I want to do that?"
"You would know."
"Bella," He grasped my hand in his and pulled me in his arms. I stared at his sweater and he tipped my chin to look up at him. "I love you. Why would I lie to you about something like this? You wanted to hear about it."
I played with his fingers and noticed he wasn't wearing the wedding band. Why did he take off the wedding band? It wasn't the time to think about that. Edward wouldn't lie about this, would he?
"You're really not lying?" I asked, feeling utterly humiliated for some reason. How could dad do this?!
"I'm sorry, baby. But no." Tears gathered in my eyes and I took a deep breath. "Angel, don't cry for that man, come here." Edward hugged me tightly and I sobbed against his neck. "Hush, it's okay."
Poor mom. She had no idea about this. Or maybe she did and that's why they were drifting apart the last few years. My parents had so many problems but they never let me know anything. Sure they fought but they always acted fine when I was around.
Wait a minute.
Leah knew about this? She never told me! Is that why she had hated me all along? Does Jake know about this? Why didn't Leah tell me about this. Ugh.
I pulled back to look at Edward. His blurry face became clearer when he wiped away my tears. He gave me a chaste kiss and patiently stared at me, knowing I would have questions.
"Leah knew?" He nodded.
"That's why she took me to meet her mother." I frowned. If the affair was with my father, why didn't she take me? "She thought you might two not get along and she was holding it in for far too long. I'm one of her closest friends, of course she took me." He said softly and tucked the stray pieces of hair away.
"Why not Jake?"
"Leah didn't want Jake to feel that she would turn out like her mom." I frowned and gazed at Edward. What if he thought I would turn out like my dad?
"You don't think that way about me?" He surprisingly let out a laugh and hugged me tightly. I tightened my arms around his neck and rested my head on his shoulder.
"Oh, baby. Never in a million years would I ever feel that way." I sighed with relief and he chuckled. "So silly." He murmured and I smiled as I completely shifted on his lap.
"Yeah, okay. Pull the duvet, I'm cold." Edward moved as he maneuvered the sheets over us and I sighed. "Thank you."
"The weather is going to be similar for the next few months."
"It's hard to get used to it after such a long time but I still like it this time."
Edward laid down on the bed and I rested atop him. One of his arm wrapped around my waist and the other stroked my hair as I looked up at him. He smiled at me with warmth making me blush for some reason.
"Why is it different this time?"
"Well, I have someone to cuddle with." He laughed lightly and kissed my forehead.
"That's true, you keep me very warm as well."
"Hmm, so are we seeing the house tomorrow?" I had to change the topic. I couldn't talk about my parents now. Maybe he might share some more stories, that I would be uncomfortable listening to.
"If you want to. I'm very excited. It was an amazing house the last time I saw it. Maybe they remodelled it even better. Mom said it's supposed to be the best one in the neighborhood." I stared at his curious grin and smile.
"Now, I have to see it after the numerous things you and Esme told me."
"Maybe we'll get it early and can celebrate our first Christmas there." Christmas with the whole family sounded way too good.
"I would really like that, I never really celebrated Christmas in a grand fashion. Mom and dad always kept it low-key. We even got Christmas tree just two years when I was kid." Edward pecked my lips.
"This time it'll be your best Christmas. Even Eli and Seth will have their first Christmas." I beamed just thinking about the holidays even though they were three months away.
"Alice will kick us out of Seattle after that. On 3rd. She has plans for the whole week." He groaned softly and closed his eyes.
"That's going to be fun." He said half-heartedly and I chuckled, kissing his cheek.
"We'll get time off for each other."
"That's not going to happen. Believe me." I frowned, confused. "Alice will hog all of you. I know her. We will barely get time to ourselves."
"Then we'll make time." I shrugged and he nuzzled against my hair.
"Just like we have to now." I leaned up to brush my lips against his. "I wouldn't have gone to Forks if I knew we would have earned some time to ourselves today."
"Is that the only reason why you went?"
"It was planned to but we got to know some stuff which was very crucial for the case."
"Like what? About Charlie?"
"Well, I told you about Charlie hiding some drugs right?" I nodded, my eyes were wide with anxiety knowing it was something about dad. "We weren't able to find out where he could possibly keep it." I gasped, my hand covering my mouth. No, he didn't.
"Sue?" I asked and he nodded.
"Very much, yes. He kept them hidden with her."
"Did you take it?" He chuckled and shook his head.
"Sue didn't have them."
"Did she give them to someone?"
"The DEA ran checks on all the places Chief Swan had been to that day of his accident. Sue's place was of course one of them. So she knew about it too."
"Did she hide them?"
"Ironically, no. Sue," He chuckled. "She flushed them in the toilet." I couldn't help chuckle even though it wasn't supposed to be funny.
"Now?"
"Non felony charges are $60,000. She'll have to pay them." WOW. I did not expect that. But it was dad's fault not hers. I had no idea dad could do something like that, just so nobody would raise questions on him. Was it possibly to hate your own father? Yes.
"Can't you do something about it? I mean, she didn't mean to. Sue must have been scared." Edward smiled at me amused.
"I just told you that the woman had an affair with your father and you still want to help her?" I shrugged.
"What's your point?"
"How can you be so selfless, love? You can press charges against her but I know you won't. Anyway, we'll have to consult an attorney. I suggested Leah some lawyers, she'll take care of it."
"Okay." I sighed and laid down on his chest, closing my eyes. I was suddenly reminded of James and so I curled up tighter to Edward. "Can't you just tell this to James?"
"Only if life was that easy. That fucker still thinks you must have it." I tightened my hold on Edward. "But I'll keep you safe. I'll do my best."
"I love you."
"I love you too, baby." I smiled and leaned up to kiss his lips softly. We shared occasional kisses and just stayed wrapped up to each other as it rained heavily outside. It was almost five when I shivered and felt Edward rub my arms to create friction.
"Cold, baby?" I nodded and he kissed my hair.
"We haven't had such peaceful three hours in a long time." I murmured and he chuckled. We both shared a look when little feet pattered up the stairs.
"You spoke too quickly." I laughed and we turned towards the door when our gorgeous daughter walked in.
"Daddy." Eli murmured sleepily and walked over to the bed. I sighed and slid off his lap to sit up. Edward did the same and helped Eli climb on the bed. She immediately wrapped her little form around her daddy and he kissed her hair.
"Daddy missed you so, so much, princess." Edward swayed her a little in his arms.
"I miss you, daddy. Mommy and Seth and me makes cookies."
"I." He corrected, kissing her nose gently. Eli nodded and rested her head on his shoulder. "You made cookies, they must be delicious then." She giggled and nodded.
"Mommy say they the best." He laughed.
"They must be."
"Mommy." Eli pointed to her hair and I sighed.
"To you want to tie it up?" She nodded and let out a yawn.
"Still sleepy, baby?" I asked and Eli smiled, shaking her head.
"No mommy, I be big giwl. I no sweep." I chuckled and kissed her cheek.
"Of course you don't need naps. You'll be needing another bath before dinner though." I muttered and she pouted.
"Nobody told you and Seth to go get wet in the rain." Edward raised an eyebrow and I blushed looking away. "Okay." I muttered under my breath and he smiled.
"Mommy?"
"Yes, honey?"
"It wain lots here."
"I know."
"I no pway now." She stared at the window sadly and I pulled her on my lap.
"I know, baby but do you remember, Friday we have to go out with Will and his mom. That sounds fun, right?" I could see a hint of blush coloring her cheeks and she nodded, clapping her hands excitedly.
"Yes! We go wead books and have fun!" I could see Edward scowling out of my periphery and elbowed him so that he would change his expression.
"Of course we will." She smiled and pecked my lips.
"Do you have to go?" Edward asked and I sighed. "It's not safe anymore, you remember what happened last night." He whispered to me, but I could see he was lying about it. He knew it was safe for me, he just never wanted us to go out with Will.
"If you remember correctly, you had a condition which I said yes to. I don't care about anything and we are going to go." I said firmly and he rolled his eyes.
"Alright, fine. But you have to go with Will?" There it is.
"Yes, daddy!" Eli smiled and Edward tried to hide his frustration.
"Sure."
"Mommy, tummy hungwy."
"What do you want to have?" She shrugged and turned in my lap to stare at the rain outside.
"How about you go see if Seth is up and mommy will come down and make us all hot chocolate. We can have that with the cookies we baked." Eli squealed and hugged me tightly. I kissed her hair. She quickly got off the bed and went running out of the room.
Edward ran a hand through his hair and looked over at me. He muttered a 'sorry' and I wrapped my arms around him, resting my head on his shoulder.
"I love you." I kissed his cheek.
"I love you too." I pulled back to look at him.
"Will doesn't know his father," I murmured and his eyes widened a little. I played with the ends of his hair. "Shelly told me yesterday when I asked her about him."
"Will told me his father had was into construction business."
"He keeps on asking so she made it up. He feels a little left out that everybody has a dad but him. When he plays with the kids, it keeps his mind off those things. Will didn't play with Eli for a while, it affected him. Kids get attached to each other very easily. So she got him here."
"I'm sorry, I had no idea about this." He said softly and I could see compassion in his eyes. I knew he would understand.
"I know you didn't, baby. That's why I'm telling you. Will thinks his father is a very busy man that's why he can't meet them. He writes letters to his father and makes drawings for him. It's so sad and he is such a sweetheart." I murmured and Edward pulled me on his lap.
"I know." He kissed my cheek and clasped our hands.
"Shelly has been having a lot of problems lately and for some reason she shared it with me yesterday. She was here for a long time. Now, I know Eli is your little girl but it wouldn't hurt for him to have her as a friend. They are just kids."
"Of course. I understand." I smiled and kissed his lips softly.
"We are so lucky we have Eli with us. We can give her a brighter future, together. And has a very handsome father." He chuckled and shook his head. I smiled and kissed his forehead.
"Come on, your princess must be waiting for her hot chocolate. Even Seth."
"I'm telling you again, it's because of you they are getting so obsessed with food. One day it's going to bite you in the ass." He warned as we made our way downstairs. He threaded his fingers along mine.
"What? They love food."
"I know. Stop giving them so much food. When you won't be here even for a meal, they'll flip out and expect me to make some Greek or Chinese dish, which I can't."
"You cook food better than me." He rolled his eyes.
"Yeah, right."
I knelt in front of her little form and wiped away the tears trailing down her cheeks. Eli held my hand tightly in both of hers. I kissed the back of her hand softly. I looked over her head to see Edward speaking to his father about something. I sighed happily. He was finally talking.
"Baby, we'll be back in no time. I promise. Nana and papa are going to get pizzas for you. It's your favorite meal in the whole world, isn't it?" Eli nodded through her tears.
"Mommy, I come wif you?" I stared at her beautiful face. How can I say no to such little beauty?
"Sweetheart, daddy and mommy have some work too. You'll get bored. Here you can play with nana and papa. Even Seth would play, I'm sure." She pouted and whimpered a little.
"Pwease?" I sighed and wiped away her tears again.
"Such big tears in your pretty eyes," I whispered and hugged her tightly. She wrapped her little arms around my neck and closed her eyes. "Baby, we'll be here to take you back home."
Edward looked over at me, making me glare at him. I mouthed 'I hate you' and he looked away. He was making me do this. Apparently, daddy can never say no to his princess so I had to do this. I kissed her hair and lifted her in my arms.
Eli pulled back and played with the pendant I wore. I kissed her forehead. Seth walked over to us and I nodded at him.
"Eli? Come on, we have to watch Tangled." He told her excitedly and she didn't bother acknowledging him.
"Baby, if you be a good girl here, only then can we go tomorrow with Will." Now that got her attention. She gazed at me with her wide blue eyes.
"I be good, I pwomise."
"I know but for that you'll have to stay here. Can you do that for me?" She nodded and I pecked her lips. "Thank you. I love you so much. Come on." I set her down and she grabbed Seth's hand in hers.
Eli stopped on her way to the den and turned to go towards Edward. She hugged his legs and he lifted her in his arms. He smiled as he spoke to her, making her giggle and gave her a quick kiss before setting her down.
"Ready?" Edward smiled as he walked over to me, his grin was contagious as it made me smile back at him even though I was mad at him.
"You owe me one." I mumbled and he laughed, pecking my lips.
"I know. The agent is there at the place, mom just told me."
"Then let's go." Edward kissed my forehead and nodded his head.
Hillary Young was a woman in her late thirties but her mannerisms made me believe that she would love to be ten years younger. So around my age. Just to flirt a little more with my boyfriend. I could just kick her with my heels.
"... and yes, Esme just called me last week. It was wonderful to hear you were back in town." So she knew him.
"Uh, yes. It was very sad to hear what happened to Mr. Cowell." I internally rolled my eyes. He was never more excited.
"That's true. Oh, and who is this?" She gave me a phony smile and Edward wrapped his arm around my shoulder, pulling me to him.
"This is my wife. Bella."
"Hi, nice to meet you." I murmured, watching her smile disappear.
"You too. I had no idea you got married, Edward." She started speaking to him again.
"Yeah, do you mind if we the see the place now?" He finally asked and she nodded, turning to unlock the entry gate.
"She seems swell." I murmured and Edward chuckled, kissing my cheek.
"You look beautiful."
"Thank you, honey." I tilted my head and gave him a chaste kiss. "You look hot in a suit, you should wear it every day."
"Yes, that sounds great." I laughed lightly and looked up at the orange sky.
"It's so different today." He hummed in agreement and nuzzled against my hair. I traced the heavy metal number 1000 that was attached to the stone wall at the entrance where we stood. The number shone from a distance when we were in the car.
"Come on in." Hillary said and I nodded.
I held Edward's hand in my own and we entered the premises. It was a gigantic house from a distance. I bet it was even bigger inside.
The place was no short of trees, shrubs and creepers. There was a gravel path towards someplace from the left and right in the front was the glass door, which wasn't too big or small. Just perfect. I could imagine myself walking here.
"It's a contemporary house, 2 stories high, the exterior is purely made from stone and is personified with nothing but glass." That was true. There were huge glass windows all over. "Although the roof is made from metal which is helpful in the rainy Seattle weather. We'll see the inside."
Edward's grin matched mine as we made our way inside the house. My eyes widened on their own accord, taking in the place. A big gray couch sat behind the coffee table and there were matching loveseats on the other two sides. A fireplace was attached to the wall and I was pretty sure it was electric.
"It's beautiful." I murmured and Edward kissed my hair.
"Mr. Cowell's son just remodelled it two years ago. It's still pretty new. Which saves you added costs if you buy it. New switch plates were just recently installed in this place."
To the left was a staircase and to my right was an open dining room. A massive wooden square shaped table was established here, having three wooden chairs on every side. I unclasped Edward's hand from my own and walked over to it.
The orange sky was clearly glimmering from the rooftop skylight and I could just imagine how beautiful the snow or even the rain would look from here. Eli would love it as well. I let out a dreamy sigh and turned to my right.
I gasped when I saw the kitchen. It was an open kitchen just how I always wanted. Gray wooden furnish and steele made a eccentric combination. It was a Chef's dream. Even if we don't have this place, I could possibly never forget this kitchen. It was flawless.
I could hear Edward talking to Hillary about something, asking about the square footage or something about the basement but I was too busy staring at this dream place. Sudden light flitted into the room and I turned to see Hillary had pressed something on the pad a little distance from the dining table as the drapes opened.
Lake Washington shone as the water was seen miles and miles from here. She pressed another button and the glass doors folded open. There sat two small gray colored loveseats, small enough to fit just four people. Even the banisters were made of glass as beautiful creepers grew over it.
I made my way to the balcony as Hillary spoke to Edward, showing him something from the floor to ceiling windows. There was a stairway which was locked with a glass gate that reached my waist. There was lawn stretched below this and this was where the gravel path ended.
The lakefront view was breathtaking and a deck led towards the docks. I could see the city on my right and mountain peaks on the left and hear the gentle breeze of the water. I looked down to my right and saw a pool whereas, a barbeque grill and more armchairs on the left.
Two black sunloungers rested on by the lawn and I smiled just staring at this place. I could see a series of decks along the lake and realized so many houses were in the neighborhood. I shivered a little when the cool breeze passed and the creepers and trees swayed with it.
I would never feel remotely humid here. I chuckled when I saw big steps made from rocks by the lake. If I could just sit on it and dip my legs in the water. I sighed. It would look really romantic if the place was lit up by string lights.
I tied up my trench coat tighter around my body and felt warm arms wrap around my waist. I smiled and rested my hands atop his. I felt his lips running over my cheek down to my neck. I couldn't wait to see the rest of this place.
"So?" Edward whispered and I turned a little to peck his lips.
"It's the most beautiful house, I've ever seen."
"You want it?" I frowned.
"It must be costing a fortune."
"You want it?" He repeated and I sighed.
"Yes." He smiled.
"Good. Me too. Should we fill an application?"
"There is a list of people wanting to buy it?"
"I just talked to Hillary, there is another couple wanting to buy but the price they are putting down is too low. Mr. Cowell's son is not being ready for it. Maybe we can settle it on a reasonable price."
"It's not too pricey, is it?"
"I still don't know, but we are getting it with the furniture and everything so there can be some added expenses."
"Then, we'll buy our own stuff. If the people have already used it, then why should we?"
"Oh, love. The house is new. Too new if you ask me. Nobody stayed at this place since they reconstructed it, two years ago. Even if they sell it, what will they do of the furniture? They are selling us with all the stuff. We just need to get the things we want."
"That sounds efficient."
"I know." He placed a soft kiss on the back of my neck. I trembled a little, making him chuckle.
"What's downstairs?" Edward leaned us over and pointed to the open doors.
"Those are the two bedrooms. We'll have to see them. More two rooms are present. One is the family room and the other is a theatre room. There is garage on the other side."
"There is a theatre room?"
"Yes, ma'am. Our princess will never leave the place." I smiled and kissed him softly.
"No gym for you, sir?"
"Actually, there isn't a room for that. We can always make room." He shrugged and I nodded. "Do you want to stand here forever or actually see the rest of the house?" I knew he was really impatient about this place.
"I don't mind standing." He scowled like a little boy.
"Great, then we'll both just stand here until it gets dark."
"Okay."
"We have reservations, baby!" He whined and I laughed, turning in his arms. "It will take forty minutes because of the traffic."
"Come on, let's see the rest of this place." We walked back in and Hillary got off her phone.
"Shall we go upstairs?"
"Sure."
"Now, I personally just love these staircase," Hillary said as we climbed the stairs. "It's a perforated steel staircase, almost glows. Oh and we can check out the basement after this."
The stairway was white and really posh to start with, the staircase really looked elegant and sexy. There was a painting hung on the wall, completely abstract and white. I really liked the combinations of white and gray in this place.
There were four doors around the passageway when we stepped there. Two on each side as it was squared in shape. The first door led to a spacious room that also had space to make walk-in closet in the future. And so was the bedroom next to it.
"This is the office, pretty spacious for two people to work in," We stepped inside the warm room. "It's convenient for the two of you, and it's right next to the master bedroom as well."
A closed door was situated on the opposite side of the wooden line of desk. I wondered what it was. There was a fireplace here as well, neatly mounted at the bottom centre of the room. 4 glass encased paintings hung on the wall.
"Is that another room?" Edward murmured, pointing to the closed door.
"No, that's just a empty space. It's as big as the study but it wasn't used for anything. I can show you though." Hillary unlocked the door and I smiled staring at the lake seen from the floor to ceiling window.
"I know what this room is going to be now." He muttered and I stared at him confused.
"Gym?" He chuckled.
"No."
"Would you like to see the master bedroom?"
"Yes, please." I smiled and we exited the office.
Hillary's phone buzzed when we entered the room and Edward walked over to sit on the plush bed. I took a look around the colossal room and my eyes filled with joy staring at the glass wall on the left of the room that also had the view of the lake. For some reason it seemed like we were floating on it.
"How's our room?"
"It isn't ours yet." I murmured and walked over to his sitting form.
"It will be." He held my hand in his.
"Edward, Bella?" We turned to Hillary. "I'm extremely sorry but I need to leave for thirty minutes. So sorry. Could you take a tour, I'll help you around when I get back, we just have an emergency and I don't have a choice."
"Of course," Edward smiled. "No worries, take your time."
"Again, I'm so sorry."
I just gave her a polite nod and I heard her clicking of heels disappearing. Edward wasted no time in pulling me on his lap and I chuckled, wrapping my arms around his neck. He cupped my face in his hands and crashed his lips to mine.
"No, no. Stop." I mumbled against his lips. "Edward!" I squealed when he flipped us over and I was pinned underneath him as he kissed me.
"Shh, quit talking." He whispered and trailed his kisses down to my neck. I felt his fingers untying my coat.
"Hillary will be here soon."
"We have thirty minutes. God, your dress is hot." I smiled and let out a breathless gasp when his teeth grazed against my neck. I tightened my arms around Edward and he opened the coat completely.
"We can't. It's not even our house. We'll get all messy, we still have to go out, oh god," I shivered when his warm fingers entered into me. My panties were soaking wet and already ruined. "Edward, the sheets." He smiled and pressed his lips against mine.
Edward had his two fingers deep inside me and the other hand was wrapped around my waist. He lifted me up into a sitting position and I clamped my legs around his waist. I pulled back when he stood up, holding me and walked over to push me against the wall.
He leaned his forehead against mine and I trembled as his hot breath mingled with my ragged one. I stared into his green eyes, his carnal stare almost made me buckle against him.
"I love you." I murmured and gave him a chaste kiss.
"I love you too, Bella."
"Baby, we can't."
He didn't say anything just sucked on my bottom lip as his fingers thrust upwards inside me, hitting my G-spot. I closed my eyes as my body buzzed from the intense workings of his fingers. Oh god. I let out a breathless gasp when his fingers increased their pace and kissed his lips fiercely.
I was transferred into a completely different world when his fingers and mouth worked their magic. His sweet tongue entered my mouth and I moaned when he sucked my bottom lip. For a second, I forgot we were in some stranger's place that we still hadn't owned and a woman was supposed to get here in twenty minutes.
Green orbs bore into mine when I opened my eyes and he gave me a soft smile knowing I was close. I could feel the pressure building, my body was so close and I tightened my legs around him. He paused his fingers inside me as we stared at each other and I bit my bottom lip, trying to hold in a loud moan waiting to escape my lips.
Edward retrieved his fingers and slowly, very slowly slipped them inside me. His lips pressed against my neck and I wrapped myself around him like a vine, moving my dress up, until my waist. I felt his hardened shaft against my stomach and I screwed my eyes shut, trying to hold in.
I whimpered softly when the tip of his tongue circled against my neck. I held a fistful of his hair and pulled his face back to look at me. He continued pumping his fingers in and out of me and my body shook as I tried to build up the pressure.
Edward pressed his lips against mine and nodded his head. I let go as my whole body shuddered against his and let out a loud moan, which was soon cut short when he cut me off with a kiss.
I gasped against his lips as my heart rate tried to get back to the normal rhythm and shivered a little from the cold air around me. My body still tingled a little and I pecked his lips softly.
My hands reached for his pants and Edward shook his head. I pouted and he brushed his thumb across my bottom lip. He leaned towards me and dragged his nose along my cheek.
"I would love for you to, but we don't have much time, baby."
"Just fifteen minutes."
"Mm, yes. So, we'll just undress a little," He threw my trench coat on the bed at a distance from us and took off his suit jacket. He stood there in his white shirt and navy blue pants. So sexy. "And now we're ready." I blushed making him chuckle.
Edward unwrapped my left leg from around his waist and placed it on the ground. The heels helped me match his height. His lips descended against mine and I sighed, wrapping my arms tightly around his neck.
I heard the sound of a zip and smiled against his lips. I moaned when his tongue entered my mouth and felt his hardness against my wet center. Oh yes. His hands travelled over my body, hitching my already short dress, up until my waist again. His lips trailed down from my neck to the swell of my bust exposed due to the strapless dress.
"This is the beauty of your little black dress."
My laughter soon turned to a very pleasure-filled moan when he thrust into me completely. God, he was huge. My fingers threaded into his hair and I circled my hips along his. He quickly picked up pace, knowing we were running out of time and clasped his hands along mine, resting them on the wall.
"Oh, god." I moaned softly as I felt heat rising in my body, every nerve was stretched and every strand of my hair rose with goosebumps because of his hot breath against my ear.
I knew Hillary would be here any moment and gave his hand a soft squeeze which was enough to send my man into over-drive. Edward pounded into me, almost making my body shake with his thrusts and I continued gasping for breath as he hit all the right places.
"I'm so close, baby." I murmured, wrapping my arms around him. I buried my face against his neck and screwed my eyes shut tight.
"Oh god, Bella. You're so tight." He grunted and enveloped himself into my arms.
I clamped around him, my legs turning stiff as we convulsed against each other. I felt his lips nipping against my neck as he masked his moans and I knew it was going to leave a mark, but I didn't mind. He was mine after all.
"Edward, we need to clean up." I mumbled and he leaned his forehead against mine, nodding his head.
"You have tissues in your purse, don't you?"
"My purse is in the car." I said worriedly and he kissed my nose.
"Don't worry, angel. I'll go get it. Just stay calm. Do you have a hair brush in there?" I nodded.
"Yeah, you're going to need it."
I let out a shaky breath as Edward pulled out of me and helped me stand on my feet. I took off my heels and gave him a quick kiss as he left. I ran a hand through my hair and walked inside the bathroom that was just as gigantic as the bedroom itself.
A square-shaped marble bathtub rested by the glass window in view with the lake. I could see us having a long, hot bath in this tub. There was a mid-wall, transparent, that separated the bath tub from the basins present. A wooden closet was present for linens and another door was a route to the walk-in closet.
I let out a dreamy sigh. It was marvelous. I heard footsteps approaching and I held my breath.
"Baby? Where are you?" I let out a sigh and sprinted out of the bathroom.
"Hey."
"Clean up, I saw her car coming."
My eyes widened and I quickly walk to the bathroom to clean myself up. I brush my hair, making it a little bouncy and trying to remove any trace of their rattled state. I checked myself in the mirror.
No smudge of my make-up, just the lipstick had disappeared, so I reapplied it. I put on my coat, trying to cover the little red mark against my neck that my boyfriend gave me.
Except for the fact that my cheeks looks flushed and eyes relaxed, there was nothing wrong. I smiled to myself. Edward never failed to make me smile. I made my way to the bedroom and put on my heels just as Hillary entered.
"Hi, you guys didn't see rest of the place?"
"Well, Bella wanted to. It's my fault really," Edward gave an apologetic smile as he closed the windows that he opened. "I had a patient call in. Well, babies can't talk, so the patient's mother called me; had some questions to ask. You know how new mothers can get."
Hillary let out a laugh. "I know, I remember when I had Jimmy, it was like a nightmare, I had my mom stay with us."
I managed to smile as a pang of sadness filled into me for some reason. I wasn't even pregnant, why am I sad then?
"Oh, you both have to be somewhere, why don't I give you a tour real quick." Hillary said as she turned to walk out. I stood up from where I sat on the bed and Edward walked over to me.
"Baby, don't feel so low. Come here." He pulled me in his arms and I cuddled closer to his chest. "You know we have to wait." I nodded, because I did.
"I love you."
"I love you too, darling. I think we should get back to the tour." I pulled back and gave him a smile.
"Yes, let's go." I should concentrate on the present. This beautiful house and what the future holds.
"That's my girl." And he placed a soft kiss on my forehead.
I shivered and stared at the dark land on my left. It looked hauntingly terrifying this late. I could never walk out here alone. I wrapped my arms around Edward's waist, inside his coat and felt his lips curl into a smile against my hair.
"Scared, Ms. Swan?"
"N-No, I'm just cold."
"I trust you." He chuckled. I pulled back to glare at him.
"I'm really not scared."
"Okay," He kissed my hair. "Do you really like the idea of a recreation room? It's so fancy."
"It's fine, honey. Plus, you really never know what it could be put to use for."
"What are you suggesting, my love?"
"Nothing, really. I really liked the ground floor rooms. Eli would love one of them."
"Do you think she'll want to stay in a room that far from ours?"
"If it's made into a princess room, our baby will stay in there forever." I shrugged and he chuckled.
"That's true. Anyway," Edward paused us at the porch steps on Esme and Carlisle's place. "You look breath-taking tonight. I wish we could have the whole night to ourselves but we—"
"It was perfect. You are perfect. Thank you. I know it's been a rough week and you still took time off for me." He stroked my cheek and his green eyes bore into mine lovingly.
"You're my girlfriend. I'm yours and you have every right to demand from me. Anything you want. Always. I love you."
"I love you too, Edward. You give me a reason to smile every day. I'm yours too." I murmured and he cradled my face in his hands, kissing my lips swiftly.
I parted my lips, kissing him back, my heart pounding in my chest as our gentle, building kiss sent shivers down my spine. His lips were so soft. I molded my lips against his, trying to keep with the slow rhythm we had going.
I sighed against his lips when I felt his warm tongue enter my mouth. I tasted the delicious chocolate mousse we just shared for our dinner night. It felt good to be some place and not worry about the kids or let anybody disturb us.
My fingers threaded into his hair, keeping his face to mine. I don't mind kissing him freely now, knowing Carlisle and Esme must be inside, this late. I pulled back when I was out of breath but Edward only gave me a second to breath. His teeth grazed against my bottom lip, pulling them and making me whimper.
"Maybe we can have a nice long bath tonight," I blushed and nodded against his lips, as they rubbed against mine. "I can set up the candles and hopefully, we'll not claw at each other but actually relax this time?" I turned scarlet but nodded.
"I can try." I whispered and he smiled.
"Me too. God, why are your lips so irresistible?"
"Wha—" I gasped when his lips roughly crashed against mine, his hands rested on my hips, pulling me flush against him. We might just end up having sex on the porch if this goes on.
"Bella, don't pull back." He mumbled and sucked on my bottom lip making me moan.
"It's almost ten-thirty. We've been standing here for fifteen minutes."
"We still have five-minutes."
I shrugged and completely focused on his lips working their magic against mine. I smiled when he groaned as I roughly tugged on his hair. They were so soft and tousled.
We broke apart from our kiss a long time later and leaned heavily against each other. I shook my head and let out a chuckle as I thought about how stupid we are to be making out on his parent's porch. Like it happens during high school.
"Let's get going, please." I whispered and grabbed his hand in my own.
Edward and I stood at the entrance and just as I was to ring the bell, the door opened. Esme and Carlisle stood with amused smiles on their faces. I blushed. I can see it in their eyes that they saw us.
"And we thought you were having trouble climbing the remaining four steps." Carlisle teased and I tightened my hold on Edward's hand.
"Carlisle, don't say that. It's always good to see our kids so in love." Esme smiled at me and motioned us to enter. "You shouldn't kiss on our porch though, you don't want us watching." She called out to us. I looked over at Edward, who was smirking at his mom.
"Serves right for the numerous times I had to watch you and dad do that." I slapped his arm lightly.
"Don't say that." I whispered.
"It's fine, baby. They know it. Come on, let's get the kids." We made our way upstairs and stepped inside the first guest room to see them, bundled up inside the covers as they slept peacefully. I smiled, looking at them. I'm so grateful they get along really well.
"Seth?" I murmured, shaking his form a little. He frowned and rolled away from me. "Seth? Seth, sweetie, wake up." I stroked his hair and he finally looked at me.
"You're here?" He whispered and I nodded.
"Come on, let's go."
"Five minutes." Seth mumbled and hid his face against the pillow. I sighed. Maybe we could wait for five minutes.
"Mommy." I heard my daughter cry and gazed on the other side of the bed to see Eli reaching for me.
"Hi, baby," I murmured, giving her a smile and walked over to her. I lifted her in my arms and hugged her little form tightly. "Go to sleep, we'll go home, okay?"
"Daddy?" I frowned.
"Daddy was right here." I looked around the room and found him nowhere. My heart skipped a beat. Where was he?
"Hey, you ready?" I gasped and turned to find him standing in the doorway, keeping his phone inside his pocket.
"Yeah, just Seth…" I tilted my head in Seth's direction. Edward chuckled and walked inside. Eli quickly jumped into her daddy's arms.
"Why is my princess up? It's so late, baby. Go to sleep." She nodded and snuggled against his neck, closing her eyes.
"Mommy stay?"
"Mommy is not going anywhere." He whispered to her and I watched them with a confused gaze. "I'll let you know in the car." He said to me and I nodded.
"Seth? Come on, wake up." Edward said sternly and Seth was up within a second.
"I'm up." He rubbed his eyes and looked at me. I smiled and stroked his hair.
"We have to go, honey. Put on your shoes." He nodded and sleepily put on his shoes.
It was fifteen minutes later we were on our way to Mercer Island and Eli was up like a hawk, whereas Seth was fast asleep, since the minute we sat in the car.
"Daddy? I sweep wif you and mommy?" Edward shared a look with me.
"Don't you want to sleep in your big girl's bed, angel?"
"Pwease? I be good, I pwomise." He sighed.
"Eli, you can't sleep in mommy and daddy's bed. You're a big girl now." He said firmly and I stared out of the window, not wanting to get into their quarrel. Edward was just trying to get some time for our bath that we decided upon.
"Daddy, pwease?"
"Nope. You need to sleep in your own bed."
"I no wike you, daddy." My little girl said angrily and I could hear her voice breaking. Poor baby.
"Yeah well, I'm not a big fan of myself either."
I chuckled and turned to him. "You are a very mean daddy."
"I'm aware of that but she is not two years old for sleeping in our bed."
"Think about it, she didn't have a good bed to sleep on when she was two. Eli's parents locked her in a room. She was away from humans, from love. One night wouldn't hurt."
Edward looked at me and chuckled ruefully. "You just know what to say, don't you?"
"It's one of the many talents I have."
"I love you." I gave his hand a soft squeeze.
"I know." I murmured and studied the passing trees with a smile on my face.
Eli giggled when she got under the covers with me and I stroked her face, my heart soaring watching her so happy. Edward walked out changed into a t-shirt and pajama pants and got under the covers.
"Good night." He murmured and gave us both a kiss before turning the lights out. Eli gasped in the dark.
"Dawk." I heard her say and I smiled, stroking her hair.
"Mm, Eli likes dark?" I asked and felt Edward moving a little.
"No, mommy. Dawk bad."
"Not, really," Edward murmured. "Dark can put you to sleep." His hand rested atop mine that was kept on Eli's stomach. I clasped it with mine tightly.
"Daddy, I no sweepy."
"Well, what should we do then?"
"Stowy."
"Hmm, okay. Mommy, do you have a story to share?" I thought about it and came up with nothing. I had already shared all the stories I could possibly know.
"Not tonight." I told Edward.
"Well, I think I can tell a story tonight then."
"Pwincess stowy?"
"Kind of." I chuckled.
"Otay."
"Once upon a time there was this beautiful princess, her name was Eli," Eli giggled, clapping her hands.
"Wike me."
"Yes, just like you. And she had this big blue eyes and little nose and the prettiest smile in the world. But, she was very sad."
"Why, daddy?"
"Well, because she was all alone in her palace, with nobody living there but her." Eli snuggled closer to me and I kissed her hair, stroking it softly.
"So, then the little princess decided to run away from the palace. To go find people for herself. Like mommy and daddy."
"She finds?" Eli asked and Edward chuckled.
"You'll have to wait for it. So, she packs her bag and sets out to walk into the forest all alone. The forest is very dark and has a lot of animals who hunt at night." Eli gasped softly and I smiled.
"Yes, but the little princess was very brave, just like you. She made her way inside the forest, trying not to fall and staying strong. She went on walking for days and she would sleep under trees at nights. She would walk and walk but the forest was not coming to an end."
"She stays there?"
"One night, she heard an animal crying. So, she bravely stood up and followed the sound. When she reached the place, she found a little cub of a lion, who had hurt his leg."
"He small baby?"
"Yes, he's just a little baby. He asks the little princess to help him remove the big thorn stuck on his leg. She was not scared as she helped him. After helping him, he thanked her and went back to his mother."
"He say fank you?"
"Yes, you should always say thank you after somebody helps you. So, then the next morning, a lioness is on a hunt and finds a little girl walking alone in the woods." Eli gasped.
"Daddy, she bad."
"I know, baby. So, the lioness takes her baby for his first hunt. As they reach the little girl, she starts crying to let her go but the lioness traps her. The cub tells his mommy that it's the girl who saved him last night and so the lioness doesn't kill her." Eli sighed and held my hand in hers.
"Instead, she helped her find a way out of the forest where at the end of it, there was a little house. Full of happiness and possibilities, two people stood in front of it, waiting for the little princess."
"They know she comes?"
"They were waiting all along. So the princess finally got her family and lived happily ever after."
"Happy?" I asked Eli and felt her nod but also let out a yawn. I sighed and tucked her in properly. "Go to sleep now. We have to go out tomorrow with Will."
"Otay." She mumbled sleepily and I saw her curl up to Edward. The moonlight making me see his face, glowing silver in the dark. He was staring down at Eli who gripped him tightly to her and I felt my eyes drooping.
"Good night, Edward."
"Night, love. Sweet dreams." I smiled and closed my eyes, letting sleep claim me.
I woke when I felt Eli kicking my legs in her sleep. I woke up to see her head against my stomach as she slept by the foot of the bed. I chuckled and helped her sleep next to me. I studied the sight out of the window and it seemed pretty dark. Where was Edward?
I turned to my nightstand to see it was two am. I sighed and stifled a yawn as I got out of the covers. I tightened my arms around myself and heard no movement in the bathroom.
There was music coming from the room next to ours and I smiled. I stepped inside his piano room to see just a single ceiling light on as Edward sat on the bench, playing a sad, slow composition. I knew he was in distress, my heart broke for him.
I walked over and wrapped my arms around his neck as I stood behind him. I kissed the side of his head and his cheek.
"Why so sad, baby?" He paused his fingers.
"I'm sorry, did I wake you up?"
"Our daughter kicked me in her sleep, which woke me up." He chuckled. "You didn't answer my question."
"It's nothing. I just can't wait for the next week to get over."
"Me too."
"I love you, Bella."
"I love you too, Edward."
"Have fun tomorrow."
"Do you have to leave early?"
"Yes but I won't leave your side this weekend, I promise." I smiled.
"That'll be great." He kissed the back of my hand.
Edward resumed playing the composition and I watched his fingers work effortlessly over the keyboard. Such talent. But the tone was so serious and just… scary. I stroked his hair, making him turn a little in my direction.
"Not this one. Play something different," I whispered, kissing his cheek. "Something for the sake of better times." I ran the tip of my index finger over his handsome face.
"Well, I do have a composition made last week. It's happy and reminds of the most beautiful woman I know." My heart skipped a beat.
"Wow, she sounds special."
"She is, more so than anything else. Sit next to me. I want to play it for you." I blushed and sat next to him on the bench, his fingers, stroking my cheek.
"Play it, please."
"Anything you want."
Edward ran his fingers over the keys before, closing his eyes and letting his fingers create a melody. I smiled as the tune was exact opposite to the one he was playing before. This was loving, cheerful and just so sweet. I could feel the love he always showed me as I heard the affectionate music.
Tears brimmed my eyes and I never wanted the composition to end. It was just so warm and inviting. I knew it must have taken him a long time to compose this beautiful melody.
I rested my head on his shoulder, feeling his body heat close to mine. I never felt better. I closed my eyes and smiled, as I forgot about everything but us for those few minutes. He kissed my hair softly and I wrapped myself around him.
I never wanted the composition to end. I wanted to hear this forever.
But it did come to a gradual end, and there was nothing but silence around us. I felt his arm wrap around my shoulder and I pulled back to look at him.
"That was the most beautiful composition I've ever heard. Thank you so much."
He kissed my lips softly. "I love you so much, Bella."
Edward wiped away my tears and I hugged him again. "Play it again, please."
And he did. Over and over until my eyes couldn't stay open any longer.
"I'll miss you."
"I know, now get out. Or I'll kick you out myself." I said, ignoring his teasing smile. He was saying that for the tenth time in the last five minutes. He just laughed and kissed my nose.
"I would love to see you do that." He mumbled against my lips.
"Go."
"Okay."
I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed his lips soundly. "You really have to go."
"I know." He pecked my lips.
"Go."
"Okay."
I closed my eyes and moaned when his warm tongue entered my mouth. I smiled and his sweet breath washed all over me. He pulled back and trailed kisses down my neck, slipping off the strap of my camisole on the way.
"God, Edward stop!" I gasped when I felt his searing kisses, making me drown with desire. We can't. Eli was sleeping right here, plus he was late.
"Edward!" I said firmly, raising a little volume and he chuckled, pulling back. He pecked my lips before standing up.
"Alright, I'll leave." I smiled and plopped down on the bed again. Eli stirred and turned to snuggle against me. I kissed her nose.
"I love you." I whispered to Edward and he leaned down, pressing a kiss on each of our foreheads.
"Stay safe. I love you both."
I gazed at the webpage, the outline showcasing the covers of my book. My first book. Rose was currently on call with me, asking for my opinion but I was speechless. Wow. It was my book and was already up for pre-order. I couldn't believe it.
"Bella, you there?" I cleared my throat.
"Yes, I'm here. It's good, right?"
"Yeah, we're having the posters up in our entire office, we're doing the best we can, you're book is going to be such a hit, Bella. You have no idea. People are already very excited, they are already pre-ordering, you're good to go."
"Thank you so much, Rose. This is amazing."
"Well, that's my job and maybe I went a little overboard because you're my sister-in-law." She said sheepishly and I chuckled.
"I'm lucky to have you then."
"Can you come by around Sunday? We can talk about it over brunch."
"How about the one after that? Edward and I have plans with the kids. It's been way too long since we've been out, after Eli's operation and all." I lied and felt really bad about it.
"Yes, you're right. We can do it next week, that's not problem. We still have more than enough time. Plus, I really hope Alice doesn't drag us someplace again." I laughed.
"That's true. She did say she was going Houston with Jasper for the weekend."
"Thank god!"
"My feelings exactly." I stared at the rain drizzling outside and am suddenly flabbergasted when footsteps approach me from the gym, I'm sure. I kept the laptop away from me when I saw them.
Both Eli and Seth came sprinting in my direction and my little girl slammed herself into my arms so hard, the phone fell out of my hands.
"Eli! Mommy was on the phone with Aunt Rose." I sighed and picked up the phone.
"Mommy, I win!"
"No, I did. Eli was cheating." Seth argued and they both glared at each other. I rolled my eyes.
"Hold on," I muttered and put the phone back on. "Rose, I'll call you back later."
"That's fine, just don't forget to. Bye, have fun."
"Sure, sure." She laughed and I hung up. I kept the phone away and stared at both of them.
"What is going on?" I asked and Eli pouted, staring at me.
"Mommy, I get cue befoh Seth but he takes fwom me."
"I did not do that with the clue." Seth gasped falsely and I raised an eyebrow, making him sigh and sit next to me. "Yeah, alright. But she got pictures, that's much easier."
"She can't read big words." I said, and he sat there grumpily.
Eli patted my cheek and I gazed at her. "Yes, baby?"
"I win?"
"No, you both don't win anything. We sit here and watch a movie now." I tried to make my voice sound firm which worked as both sighed.
I had a great idea for this glum day as I had a treasure map made for both of them, so that they would try to stay engaged in some sort of activity for at least forty minutes but plans never worked for me now, did they ever?
Instead, they ended up arguing over it and now I had no idea how to keep them entertained today. Eli would be fast asleep in the next two hours, I was sure of it, but she would still keep bugging until then. It was better if we watched a movie instead.
So, now we were sitting in the den, watching the movie Boy and the World, which seemed to go over Eli's head but she watched the cartoons with rapt attention. The house was silent as only the rain was heard outside and the sounds of the occasional wind.
It was twenty minutes later that Eli turned and wrapped her arms around my neck, pressing her face against my neck. She let out an adorable yawn and closed her eyes, getting drowsy already. I stroked her hair and placed a soft kiss against her cheek.
Seth stretched his legs and rested his head on my shoulder as we continued watching the movie. I haven't had the house this quiet since a long time and it felt good. The clouds rumbled and there was a sudden silence around us, as the house visibly darkened from the weather outside.
I could hear my own breathing. The weather was telling me something and I knew it very well. It was a caution for the coming week, to face whatever to come forward. I relished this peaceful movements, trying to slow down my erratic heart.
I know what this is, it's the calm before the storm.
Let me know what you think!
REVIEW and let me know, I'm really excited for your reviews! Can't wait.
Now, I know I shouldn't be defending these character even though I made them what they are because everybody has their own opinions. Bella's mood swings are really annoying, aren't they? Some of you think so, others don't. I don't mind.
Anyway, my point is, please don't hate the characters. We read the story because of them. But, you can hate James. And Victoria. Maybe even Laurent. Your call.
Next chapter is, yes, it's the 'storm' I was referring to. This chapter surely was the 'calm'. I'm not going to disclose anything, you'll have to read the next update, which I'll try to post early.
Until next time guys!
Love Always,
Paint the Walls.