Hope Springs

by justginger

Bella Swan has been alone for most of her life, she is young and she is scared, but now she has another life to protect. She is heading for a new country - a new life and then she ends up in HOPE SPRINGS. Will she run, or will she allow the people in

38. Chapter 38 - Making babies is supposed t

Disclaimer: The original characters and plot of the Twilight Saga are the property of Stephanie Meyer. The story line of HOPE SPRINGS belongs to me.

HOPE SPRINGS

At the end of chapter 37 –

Bella had paled alarmingly when she saw him.

For the first time Bella realized that Edward was holding Apples by her collar, but what was the worst thing was that her dog was covered in silver duct tape and in her mouth she gripped the now torn brown paper bag with her tongue hanging out the side.

"Aaagh, Bella? Could, um, could I see you for a minute?" Edward asked quietly. Apples chose that moment to give her present a 'death shake' and she dropped it triumphantly as the 'guts' spilled out of the bag and four packets of pregnancy test spilled out onto the diner floor.

Bella did the only thing at that she could – she fainted.

CHAPTER 38 – Making babies is supposed to be fun

"Bella, baby? Come on Sweetheart, open your eyes."

Bella heard the familiar velvety voice and she smiled as she stretched, "Hmm, not ready to wake up," Bella mumbled.

The voice chuckled softly and Bella felt a cool hand caress her cheek, "Come on Baby, I need to see those beautiful eyes of yours." Edward whispered.

Bella's eyes flickered open and she was surprised that she didn't recognize the ceiling, or the room. She wasn't at home… hmm.

Suddenly it all came back to her – buying the tests, hiding them, arguing with the town elders at the diner, Edward holding Apples, the pregnancy tests on the floor…

"Fuck!" Bella tried to sit up only to be held down by Edward pined her shoulders gently to the sofa in his office.

"Stay still for a moment, Bella. You fainted and I need to check and see if you hit your head."

Bella huffed but she remain still as Edward gently felt around the base and back of her skull before he nodded to himself and sat back on his hunches, satisfied for the moment that Bella didn't have a cracked skull.

Bella wondered how she was going to get out of this mess that she had created until Edward very gently placed a finger under her chin until her eyes met his reluctantly.

"I'm sorry." Bella whispered as she felt her chin begin to wobble and a lone tear rolled into her hair.

Edward shook his head as he tenderly cupped her cheek, "Oh baby, no! You don't have to apologize to me! There is nothing to be sorry for." At her look of disbelief, Edward chuckled, "Bella, this town hasn't had this much drama since Brady Smith set the science lab on fire on the 7th Grade; and no one even remembers that, except Emmett because he and Jasper were involved."

His eyes softened, "What I'm saying is that whatever the hell went on today will blow over by next week." He lowered his voice and leaned closer to her, "In fact, I have it on good authority that our Police Chief is getting close to nailing the notorious 'panty bandits' – and it looks like it could be one or more of the older members of our town…" he winked at her playfully.

Bella gasped as her eyes widened.

For several weeks some of the more easily accessible yards had been subjected to petty thieves. It seemed that some of the more 'flimsy' delicates had been stolen from several wash lines.

"Really?"

Edward nodded as he grinned, "Really. Right now, Jasper has three suspects in custody for questioning. I really don't think that anyone is going to remember anything else that happened this afternoon because the reporter from the Vermont Central Times may or may not have received an anonymous tip and the story may or may not make the front page of Monday's paper."

Bella lay looking up into Edward's beautiful face for a moment before she spoke up, "I love you Edward Cullen and I truly don't deserve such a wonderful man." She said quietly.

Edward's smile faded slowly as the merriment in his eyes gave way to the concern and the slight hurt that he couldn't help but feel.

"What happened baby? I'm not angry with you, I'm just confused and concerned, so can you tell me what's going on?" he asked.

Bella nodded before she asked if she could use the bathroom first.

Edward helped her to sit and then stand up and when she made her way to the bathroom across the hall, Edward quickly buzzed the reception desk and he asked Kathy for two cups of tea and a bottle of water.

Bella was surprised that her sisters-in-law were not in the waiting room. Perhaps no one had actually seen anything, she thought as she used the toilet and washed her hands.

=====HS=====

As Edward waited for Bella to come back, he thought about the scene at the diner just a while before:

Edward shouted as he watched Bella's eyes role back in her head and she began to crumble to the purple and white checkered floor.

"NNNOOOO!" Edward's loud shout rang out.

Alice had surprised everyone with the speed and agility that she used as she shot out of the booth wrapped her arms around Bella's waist and she moved so that Bella fell backwards onto her own small frame.

Edward was by Bella's side in seconds, unmindful of the fact that Apples had jumped up onto the table where Billy, Pete, Mike Senior and Bob Mackey were sitting and she had pulled several pairs of ladies panties from the canvas fishing bag that Bob always seemed to carry around with him.

The next thing, Jasper was frog marching Pete, Mike and Bob to the police station, while Mike apologized to the diners for his grandfather's appalling behavior and after Edward quickly checked Bella over for any obvious injuries and Alice picked up Apples 'bounty' and discreetly pushed the packages into her purse, while Rosalie had secured Apples with the ever-present leash that she kept in her purse and Makenna had quickly paid their bill.

Edward picked Bella up and he insisted on carrying her back to his surgery which was thankfully on the next block.

He was surprised that his sisters-in-law had not wanted to accompany him, but he was grateful that Rosalie promised to take Apples home for him.

=====HS=====

Bella opened her husband's office door.

"Hey love, come and sit down," Edward said as he held his arm up and Bella snuggled close to his side.

Bella sighed as she listened to Edward's steady heartbeat beneath her ear.

"Are you okay?" he asked quietly.

Bella nodded, "Yes, I'm fine, I just feel stupid for causing such a scene in the middle of town."

"There is no reason to feel stupid. I just want to know what Apples was doing running around town looking as if she had been hogtied with duct tape and carrying a bag full of pregnancy tests!"

Bella held her breath and waited for him to connect the dots, but it seemed that Edward was not thinking clearly because the next thing that he said shocked her, "These darn kids and their practical jokes! It gets worse every year before the weather warms up."

Bella bit her lip. She should just admit it and come clean, but she was scared. What if she wasn't pregnant? What if he really didn't want kids now? What if he didn't want her anymore?

STOP IT! She told herself firmly.

"Bella? Are you okay? You look really pale, love, I think that you should go home and lie down. Let me just clear my calendar and I will take you," he began, but he was interrupted by a knock on his door.

Before he could speak, Rosalie and Alice stepped into the room.

"Hey Bells, are you feeling better?" Rosalie asked.

When Bella nodded, Alice smiled, "Good, because we have come to take you home."

"I was going to do that…" Edward began but Rose was already shaking her head as she picked up Bella's purse and shoes.

"Nonsense, you have other patients to see, let us take her home." Alice said with a warm smile.

Bella didn't trust her sister-in-laws one bit. They were looking too innocent.

The decision was taken out of their hands when Edward's phone rang. Tommy Mackey had fallen off his bike and it looked as though he may have broken his arm.

Bella hurriedly said goodbye before she was whisked away and deposited in the back seat of Rosalie's truck.

Bella fidgeted nervously as Alice and Rosalie chatted quietly as they turned into Bella's driveway.

"Wait there," Rosalie instructed as she and Alice climbed out and then put an arm around Bella's waist to lead her up the steps to the front door.

Bella wanted to grumble but she was too busy wondering what they knew and so she allowed herself to be led to the plump sofa in the great room, where she sat down. Alice pushed an ottoman under her feet and Bella opened her eyes to see Makenna pouring tea into four cups.

Oh shit, this was not good.

Makenna, Alice and Rosalie sat down and Bella nervously picked up her cup and sipped the hot liquid.

After about three minutes of complete silence Bella cracked.

"OKAY! What do you want to know?" she shouted.

Rosalie, Alice and Makenna grinned at each other before they looked at Bella.

"Why don't you start with why you bought four pregnancy tests in Woodstock this morning?" Alice said as she took the packages out of her purse.

"And where the hell did you 'hide' them with an entire roll of duct tape?" Rosalie arched a perfectly shaped eyebrow.

"And why didn't you tell us? Any why haven't you told Edward?" Makenna asked.

Bella sat back in her seat.

"I think that I misunderstood Edward. I asked him to have a baby just before we – you know," she took a deep breath, "he said 'yes' but I don't know if he meant it, because when the thing with Bree happened, he was so happy that we were not trying to have a baby and I didn't know what to say. I just decided to go back onto my pills because I still had a prescription for them, but I think that I may have already been pregnant." She clasped her hands between her shaky knees before she sighed.

She looked at her friends, "I just wanted to be sure before I told him and what if I have screwed this up by taking the pill? What if I've damaged our baby? What if he doesn't want this and… and I'm alone again?" Bella whispered the last part as large tears rolled down her cheeks.

Edward stood in the doorway staring at his wife with his heart beating ridiculously fast. After the girls had left something had clicked in Edward's head and after he was able to ask Ned to handle the Mackey kid and Jeffers had volunteered to take the other patients, Edward drove home quickly.

The front door had been open when he arrived and he had walked in to hear all of Bella's hurried explanation.

He was such an idiot! His mind raced backwards and he recalled making passionate love to Bella right in their kitchen.

He recalled her saying something about 'baby' but at the time he had not been thinking clearly. He did remember making those thoughtless comments after they had come home from his parent's house, but he had never ever wanted Bella to think that he wouldn't want a baby with her!

How could he have fucked up so badly?

Edward watched as Bella put her head into her hands as she began to cry. The sound just about broke his heart.

He must have made a noise because the three women looked up. He could see accusatory anger on Rosalie's face, while Alice was vibrating with disapproval. Makenna was the only one who seemed sympathetic and she smiled at him.

She put a restraining hand on Alice and Rosalie's arms and nodded to the front door.

"I think that we should leave these two alone." She said.

Bella hadn't heard Edward come in and she was unaware that her friends had left until she felt the sofa dip next to her and two strong arms lifted her and pulled her against a hard, warm chest.

Bella stiffened, but Edward only tightened his hold as he pressed tender kisses to her hair.

Finally Bella's tears dried and she took a shaky breath as she clutched Edward's damp shirt in her fingers.

"I'm so sorry –"

Edward shook his head vigorously, "You have nothing to apologize for, my Love! Nothing! It's me who should be begging for your forgiveness for being an insensitive buffoon!" he put his hands on her shoulders until Bella reluctantly met his eyes.

"Bella, I love you so much and I would never, ever want you to think that I don't want a baby with you. I can't wait for your belly to grow round with our baby. I'm sorry if I made you think that I didn't want this, Sweetheart. I only said that we should wait because I didn't want you to feel pressured, okay?"

Edward brushed the hair that had fallen out of her makeshift bun out of her eyes. Her beautiful chocolate colored eyes looked slightly dull and sad and Edward pressed his lips to her eyes, cheeks, nose and finally her mouth before he pulled back again, "I love you Isabella Cullen and I would be so very happy if you are pregnant with our child."

Bella felt her mouth lift slightly, "Yeah? Really?"

Edward nodded, "Really and truly."

Just then Bella's stomach rumbled loudly and Edward laughed at the pretty blush that spread across her cheeks.

"Hmm, it seems to me that we need to feed you. Is there anything in particular that you want to eat?" he asked.

Bella shrugged as her blush deepened, "I have a hankering for maple chicken and a lime milkshake, actually."

Edward laughed softly as he moved Bella off his lap and stood up, holding onto her hand.

"Why don't you go and get changed while I feed the dogs and see if Bentley's has a table for us?" Edward asked.

Bella nodded eagerly and she went upstairs to change into a pair of black pants, sliver sandals and a pretty black and silver top. She brushed her hair and quickly pulled it into a high ponytail before she washed her face and applied a light dusting of makeup.

Both Bella and Edward enjoyed eating out at Bentley's, a lovely restaurant in Woodstock that served a mixture of cuisine with great local quality produce.

Bella was well aware that they had not yet talked about when she was going to take the pregnancy tests, but Bella wasn't feeling nearly as anxious as she had been. Now that she knew that Edward supported her no matter what the outcome was, she knew that she could wait.

Edward fed the dogs before he walked outside to check their water bowls.

He immediately noticed that the top of Apples unused kennel had been knocked off the base and he could not help but laugh as he saw the remnants of duct tape stuck on the inside.

If he lived to be a hundred, he didn't think that he would ever understand how Bella's mind worked – and he found that he loved her even more for it.

After he righted the kennel and he had given them fresh water, Edward headed upstairs. He gave a low whistle of approval when he saw Bella sitting at her vanity, applying a coat of mascara.

Bella rolled her eyes, but Edward noticed her pleased smile when she thought that he wasn't looking.

"So, we have reservations for a table in forty minutes. That just gives me time to jump into the shower." He said and he could not resist pulling his shirt over his head before he toed off his shoes and unsnapped his pants. He knew that Bella was staring at him in the mirror and that just put an added spark to his impromptu striptease.

As he walked into the bathroom he turned around and winked at her, "If you are lucky, maybe you will get a repeat performance at the late show after dinner." He said with a crooked smirk.

Bella realized that he had known that she was watching him all along and she stifled a giggle. It wasn't her fault that her husband was such a drool-worthy specimen.

Fifteen minutes later they were driving to Woodstock. Edward held Bella's one hand in his own as he deliberately kept the conversation light.

They pulled into the parking lot and Edward quickly kissed Bella's fingers before dropping her hand and climbing out of the car. He held her door open for her and flashed his best crooked smile that he knew melted her heart.

The waitress showed them to a table near the back and Edward ordered a micro brew for himself and a non-alcoholic apple cider for Bella and he quickly ordered a couple of flatbreads and a basket of tortilla chips and salsa before they placed their orders.

Bella's mouth was watering as she ordered Maple Mustard Chicken, which consisted of a chicken breast, that was crusted with pecan nuts, baked and served with a maple and mustard sauce and was paired with roasted red potatoes and fresh vegetables, while Edward ordered one of his favorite dishes, and one of Bentley's specialties, the Jack Daniel's® Steak. It consisted of a New York Strip, rubbed with black pepper and flamed at the table with bourbon.

Within minutes, their starters had arrived and Edward could not contain his smile as he watched Bella rip pieces of the garlicky flatbread and pop it into her mouth before she scooped large helpings of salsa and sour cream onto the chips before she closed her eyes and hummed in contentment as she chewed on the succulent morsel.

Her low moans did nothing to help the growing problem in Edward's jeans and he shifted a couple of times as he tried to think of things that would 'calm' him down.

Esme and Carlisle kissing – no, no help there, okay, hmm, Esme and Carlisle kissing, naked, on the stairs… okay, that's better.

He looked up to see Bella lick her small fingers and his eyes darkened as he watched her pink tongue lap at her moistened fingers before she licked her lips and looked up at him with large innocent eyes.

"What's wrong, darling?" Bella asked breathlessly. Fuck, she could see how turned on Edward was by the way that his nostrils were flaring and his eyes were almost black.

It had seemed like a fun idea to tease him a little for his striptease earlier, but now she wondered at the wisdom of her impulsive actions.

"E-edward?" she stammered slightly.

Edward's dark eyes flicked to her eyes and his narrowed as he realized that she had deliberately set out to provoke him.

"Don't think that I will forget this, Missy. There will be repercussions to this." He almost growled before he took a long drink of his beer, while Bella shifted in her seat.

He was so damn sexy when he was aroused and frustrated.

Just then their waitress appeared and Edward quickly ordered another beer. A few moments later, their main course was served and as always it was delicious. Edward almost chocked on a bite of steak when he felt Bella's small foot rub against his inner thigh.

"Isabella…" he warned her.

Bella smiled and raised her eyebrows in silent challenge.

"Suddenly I'm not so hungry…" Bella whispered across the table.

Edward swallowed and shook his head as he captured her toes with one hand.

"You are going to be the death of me, Isabella. We will leave soon, but I want to talk about today first, okay?"

Bella's smile waivered at Edward's serious tone and she tried to sit up but he would not let her foot go.

"Don't get defensive, love." He coaxed her gently and Bella relaxed again.

"Why do you think that you are pregnant?" he asked as he stroked her foot under the table.

Bella let out a sigh and she immediately pushed her food away.

"I'm late," she whispered as her eyes darted around the room.

Edward let go of Bella's foot and he sat forward and caught her hands in his, "Don't be scared, my love, this is a wonderful thing, but of course I'm concerned about you. Bella, please look at me," he waited until she looked up, "I meant what I said this evening. Nothing would make me happier than to become a father with you. Do you believe me?"

Bella nodded, "I do, but I'm just scared, you know. I hadn't really thought about what it would feel like and if my dates are correct then I think that I'm almost at the end of my first trimester, just like I was before…" her words slowly sank in and Edward wanted to scoop her up and rush her off to Kebi to check out, but he knew that she was watching him and she would take her queue from him. If he freaked out, then she was going to as well.

Edward took a deep breath, "Would you like your milkshake now?" he asked.

Bella frowned as she looked at her plate of half eaten food, "I think that I've lost my appetite suddenly. Can," she looked around before she looked back at Edward, "Can you take me home? I want to go home."

Edward nodded and he motioned to the waitress to bring him the bill, but not before he asked for their food to be wrapped up and for two extra large lime milkshakes to go.

Once they were outside, Edward put the bag containing their food and drink on the hood of the car and he pulled Bella into his arms.

"It's going to be okay, Sweetheart. I've got you. We are in this together remember? I love you Bella, and nothing will ever change that, I promise." He whispered into her ear as he held her tightly.

Bella's hands clutched Edward's arms and she reveled in the feel of being held so tightly. It made her feel secure and protected and it was exactly what she needed to calm down.

"Are you okay now?" Edward asked.

Bella nodded.

Edward checked his watch and looked at his wife, "I would like to ask Kebi to do some tests tonight. I think that it will put both of our minds at ease, because otherwise, I don't think that we will do much sleeping tonight."

Bella bit her lip, she hated being a bother, but she also needed to know and she found herself nodding.

Edward sighed in relief as he pulled his phone out as they sat in the car and he dialed Kebi's number.

She was on nightshift at the hospital and urged Edward to bring Bella in immediately.

Bella felt that the next five minutes were the longest of her life and by the time that Edward pulled into the hospital, she was almost hyperventilating. Edward kept a hand on her thigh as he drove but he could see that Bella had zoned out. She almost jumped out of her skin when Edward opened her door and she realized that they were at the hospital already. All that she could think about was the last time that she had been there – the pain – the blood.

Suddenly her shoulders were gripped and she was spun around to face her husband, who was almost glaring at her, "Stop it right now! Your pulse is racing and that's not good for you. Let's just see what Kebi has to say, alright?"

Bella was biting her lip so hard that she thought she was going to taste blood, but she managed to nod and she let out a small sigh as Edward's large hand closed around her small one.

Kebi was standing just inside the doors. Her beautiful face showed only affection and warmth as she greeted Edward before she tucked an arm through Bella's.

"How have you been, Bella?" she asked in her soft accented voice.

Bella shrugged, "I'll tell you once we know the results." She said with a nervous chuckle, which sounded more like a sob.

Kebi glanced over at Edward and she saw the concern in his eyes.

She opened her office door and motioned them both inside.

"Now, you two, fretting and agonizing is not going to help anyone, so why don't we just head into the examination room and we can get some answers okay?"

Bella undressed and she sat down on the small bed, while Edward sat next to her, holding her hand tightly.

They were both lost in the memories of the last time that they had been in that position and Bella tried desperately to control the nausea that was making her stomach role dangerously.

Kebi walked in holding Bella's folder in her hands.

Edward was never more grateful that Kebi was such a soothing person as he watched how she calmed Bella down by asking nonthreatening, seemingly innocuous questions.

"How is your appetite, Bella?"

"Have you been stressed at work?"

"Are you sleeping well? How many hours a night do you sleep?"

"Is anything worrying you, Mon petit? How is your husband treating you?"

She asked the last question with a wink at Bella as she mock frowned at Edward.

Bella giggled and she finally relaxed.

Kebi took her blood pressure again and noticed that it had dropped significantly from when Bella had arrived.

Kebi held Bella's hand in hers and she smiled gently, "When was your first day of your last period? Can you remember?"

Bella bit her lip, "Um, my last full period date was January 23rd."

Edward opened his mouth to question her further but at Kebi's quick warning glare he shut his mouth again.

"Have you had some bleeding after that, Mon Petit?"

Bella shrugged, "I thought it was a period, because it was late, but it was more brown then red and it only lasted for two days – that was in February." Bella could feel tears burning at the corners of her eyes but she willed them away.

Kebi squeezed her hand reassuringly as she looked from Edward to Bella, "Bella, there are many reasons why a woman has a bloody discharge in her pregnancy that are quite none threatening. Let's not jump to any conclusions until we are sure, okay?"

Just then a technician walked into the room and greeted them quietly before she directed Bella to lie down and the paper gown was pushed up before the cold gel was put onto her flat stomach.

Bella held on tightly to Edward's hand as he leaned over her protectively.

"Hey," She looked up at him, "I love you." He whispered and Bella smiled at him.

"I love you too."

Bella turned to face the monitor.

The technician and Kebi held a quiet conversation as Edward concentrated on Bella.

Suddenly he heard it and he couldn't help the gasp or the rush of tears that flooded his eyes as his head shot up.

Bella stared at the blinking dote on the screen blindly before she looked at Kebi and then over at Edward.

Both were grinning from ear to ear and if Bella needed any further proof, the tracks of tears pouring down Edward's cheeks told her everything that she needed to know.

"Yes? I'm pregnant?" she asked breathlessly.

Kebi nodded as she discreetly wiped a tear from her eyes. She narrowed her eyes in warning at the technician who would never dream of spreading the story of how the seemingly unemotional Doctor Malek was crying!

"Yes, Isabella, you are very much pregnant! Look at the screen. Bernice, what are your calculations?"

Bella didn't hear the rest of the technician and Kebi's conversation. All she could hear was the loud, solid beating of their child's heart.

A very healthy, growing, and living baby.

Edward could not stop crying and kissing Bella and they eventually pulled apart when they both needed air in their lungs.

Bella pressed her forehead to Edward's as they laughed breathlessly, both unmindful of their tears.

"I love you!" Bella gushed as she held Edward's face in her hands.

"I love you and I love" kiss, "love", kiss, "love this baby!"

Kebi thanked the technician and asked her to print out four copies of the pictures. She knew that neither Edward nor Bella would take in many of the details and that they needed some time to comprehend the miracle that had occurred.

She cleared her throat and Bella and Edward looked at her guiltily.

"Okay, so I want to draw some blood but it seems as if you are going to have a baby in about 27 or 28 weeks time! Now, I know that you have a ton of questions, so why don't you get dressed Bella, while Edward goes to the doctor's lounge and rustles up some of their spectacular hot chocolate and we all meet in my office?"

Edward felt as if he was floating through the hallways. All he could think about was the sight of his baby inside Bella's stomach as the tiny but steady heartbeat filled the room.

I'm going to have a baby! I'm going to have a baby!

Edward's hands were shaking so badly that one of the other doctors, who knew him, took pity on his dazed and frazzled appearance and soon, Edward was carrying a tray of two hot chocolates and one bottle of cold water back to Kebi's office.

He walked into the office just as Bella took a seat in one of the chairs facing the desk.

"Come and sit down, Edward. I was just explaining to Bella that the discharge that she experience after conception could very well have been caused by a little lining coming away and that it is nothing to be concerned about."

Bella's hand reached out and Edward clasped it in his as he shifted his chair closer to her. He could feel Bella's anxiety and he knew that her fears of a miscarriage were very real to them both, even though he knew from his medical training that miscarriages rarely occurred more than once, unless there was an underlying reason and Bella had been cleared by Kebi after an extensive amount of tests.

"Kebi does everything seem normal for Bella's stage of pregnancy?" Edward asked more for Bella's benefit than his own.

Kebi nodded, "Everything looks really good. From the date that you've given and from our calculations, you are about 12 weeks along Bella. I've put a rush on your blood work Bella, and I should have that by tomorrow morning but so far, if we assume that everything is accurate then that means that the danger period is almost over. I will feel more confident once you are at 14 weeks, but having said that, please let me reassure you that the baby appears perfectly developed and right on target. The placenta is lying in a normal position and there does not appear to be any threat of tearing or rupture in the amniotic sac."

Bella was nodding but she still felt afraid.

Kebi leaned forward and patted Bella's arm, "Relax, Bella. This is supposed to be a happy time!" she grinned and Bella felt herself smiling back. "You are going to have a baby and from what we can see today, it is going to be a robust and healthy child."

She sat back and looked at Edward, "Now, with that being said; because you have had a miscarriage, you both need to be extra vigilant; Edward, do not hover, but please be attentive to Bella, especially until we have the next sonogram." She looked at Bella, "And you, Isabella – I want you to relax! Try to rest every day in the afternoons after work; let Edward fuss over dinner and spoil you. Listen to your body and if you begin to bleed, or have any kind of cramping or pain, I want you to call an ambulance and I want you to get in here as soon as possible, is that understood?"

Bella nodded and Kebi continued, "I am only saying this so that you are aware – there is a less than one percent chance of you having a miscarriage, but there is always a risk. Many times we are able to stop the miscarriage, if the patient gets to us in time. Last time, you didn't know what to expect and that is why I want to see you every two weeks until the end of your second trimester."

Edward couldn't stand that tension that he felt coming off Bella in waves any longer and he scooted his chair backwards and pulled her onto his lap.

"Edward, how is Jeffers working out?" Kebi asked.

Edward nodded, "He is a great asset to the practice, thanks so much for recommending him."

Kebi nodded, "Well, I'm really pleased that he is so close to you, because I would like to get him on board with Bella's case. An extra pair of hands is never wasted and Jeff is a remarkable midwife and nurse. I would like you to see Jeff every other week Bella, just for the next little while so that he can monitor your blood pressure etcetera."

When Bella looked to protest Kebi held up her hand, "Now I know that this may seem excessive, but you need to remember that you live in a family of doctors and you have a medical history so would you rather have Jeffers and I look after you or would you prefer to have Edward and Carlisle following you around with a wheelchair and a stethoscope?" Edward huff and rolled his eyes while Bella giggled at the visual that she got but she noticed that Edward didn't deny Kebi's claim.

"Okay! Okay! You've convinced me – you and Jeffers it is." Bella said.

Kebi smiled and winked at her, "I thought that you would see things my way. Okay, here is your prescription for your prenatal vitamins, these are your first pictures of baby Cullen and I will see you in two weeks time. I will speak to Jeffers on Monday and he will contact you for your first appointment with him."

Bella stood up and hugged Kebi, "Thank you, so much Kebi."

"This visit brings me great joy, Cherie" Kebi as she hugged first Bella and then Edward.

As they walked out of the hospital, Bella stopped walking suddenly and she let out a loud squeal. She startled Edward and he swung around, "What's wrong? Are you okay?"

Bella let out a loud shout of laughter as she held Edward's hands and swung herself around, "I'M PREGNANT!"

Edward burst out laughing and thankfully he caught her as Bella leapt into his arms.

"I'm pregnant, Edward, I'm having a baby! I'm having your baby!" Bella said as she pressed her forehead to his.

He tilted his head and pressed his lips to hers, completely unmindful of the evening pedestrians walking around them.

"Yes, you are my only love." He let Bella's body slide down his body, tormenting him as he felt every inch of her body.

"Hmm, let's go home Mrs. Cullen, I want to make love to my wife." He said against her lips.

"Great idea, Doctor Cullen!"

Between their excited chatter, Bella managed to drink her watery milkshake and Edward promised her that he would buy her a shake maker that weekend.

Before the front door was properly closed, Edward and Bella were scampering to get out of their clothes.

Eventually, they managed to discard their shoes and jeans and Edward made love to Bella on their staircase before he carried her upstairs and made love to her again in their bed.

Apples snuggled closer to Roscoe as the humans settled down for the night. She had no idea what had gone on that day; all she knew was that she had fun. She found treasure, played 'catch' with her Edward before she was brought back home in a car (she loved to ride in cars!) and the lovely human Rosie had given both her and Roscoe huge bones.

Life was really good, maybe the next day she would be able to capture a butterfly...

=====HS=====

Roscoe finally managed to wake his master up the next morning and Edward staggered downstairs to let the dogs outside while he put on a pot of decaffeinated coffee and he fed the dogs.

Bella came skipping downstairs as she tied her short silk robe. She was humming softly as she thought about making eggs for breakfast – eggs sounded great. Just then she smelled the dogs bowls of food and she clamped her hand over her mouth as she raced to the downstairs toilet.

When she sat back on her heels, Edward was kneeling behind her, rubbing her back and holding her hair out of the way.

"You don't have to do this babe."

Edward just smiled as he got up and he wet a face cloth with warm water and handed it to her.

"I can't carry Little Bit, but I can do this." He said quietly.

Bella felt her insides warm at his words, Little Bit.

Tears suddenly flooded her eyes and she giggled as Edward wiped the tears away with his thumb.

"Hormones!" Bella said.

"It's allowed" Edward said as they walked into the hallway.

Bella was hesitant to go back into the kitchen with the smell of the dog food that she had never found offensive before.

Edward led her towards the stairs, "Why don't you go and take a shower and let me air out the great room. I will start breakfast as well, what do you fell like?"

"Eggs!" Bella said firmly as her stomach growled.

"Well, okay then! I will see you inside in a few minutes."

Bella took her time to shower before she changed the sheets on their bed and put all their clothes and the bedding into the hamper. She was about to pick it up when Edward walked into the bedroom.

One look at the disapproval on his face to his arms crossed firmly over his chest and Bella knew that she was in trouble.

"Isabella? There is no lifting to be done for the next six months, baby! You heard Kebi!" Edward rebuked her.

Bella rolled her eyes, "Come on, Babe. I'm not an invalid!"

Edward cocked an eyebrow as his green eyes hardened, "Not yet, but do you want to be?"

Suddenly Bella saw the real worry in Edward's eyes and she backed off, "I'm sorry, I wasn't thinking. You are right, thank you."

Edward nodded, satisfied that he had got his message across firmly, "Come on, your eggs are ready."

After breakfast, Edward pottered around the garden while Bella did some light housework. Edward kept popping up in whichever room she was in, 'just in case she needed his help', but Bella knew that he was making sure that she didn't exert herself.

Edward showered and changed into a pair of dark jeans and a plain white button down shirt, while Bella wore a pretty pale blue dress that flattered her small frame.

They loaded the dogs into the truck and then they put the pies on the back seat before they set off for Esme and Carlisle.

They had decided that they would announce their good news during lunch because Bella was sure that Edward's over protectiveness would give them away sooner rather than later.

The rest of the family had already gathered outside and Bella greeted everyone before she sat under a large umbrella next to Rosalie.

"Sooo, little Bells, is there anything that you want to tell us?"

Bella felt her cheeks heat up as she pretended to misunderstand Rosalie.

"Oh, we went out for dinner to Bentley's last night – it was really great as always."

Rosalie's eyes narrowed, "You have until after lunch spill the details before Alice and I 'out' you."

Bella bit back a retort as Esme chose that moment to walk outside with Megan and Alice.

"Bella! Those pies look delicious! And you clever girl, you made enough for my 'wolf sons' to take home with them!"

Bella laughed, "Em phoned me last week already to put his order in for Italian Easter Pie so what I did was after I baked them, I divided the pies so that the guys could choose slabs of each to take home, that way Emmett, Jasper and Carlisle don't end up fighting over the Pumpkin or the Blueberry Lemon. I also made the kids' favorite, Peanut Butter Pie."

Megan smiled as she sat down on the other side of Rosalie, "Thank heavens we don't live here – I would be rolling down the road at this rate! How did you become the 'Pie Queen' around here?"

Bella explained that she had not been able to cook when she first came to Hope Springs and that Edward had gifted her with a cooking course, which had given cultivated a love for cooking and baking. Bella loved to experiment and Edward had begun to run two extra miles each day to combat the effects of Bella's cooking.

"Wow, you are a very talented young lady, Bella! Edward is a lucky man." Megan said.

"You have no idea!" Rosalie commented snidely with a sideways look at Bella.

Alice snorted from across the table and Megan looked at her daughters with a frown, "What is with you two today? You are worse than Chelsea and Emma – honestly you girls get sillier every time I see you!"

Bella tried to hide a grin but Rosalie spotted her and she jabbed her in the side with an elbow.

"OW!"

Seconds later Edward was by her side, checking her over with his hands and his eyes and fussing, until Bella had convinced him that she was fine.

Edward turned to chastise his sister in law when he happened to look up and see every adult staring at him and Bella with expressions that ranged from puzzled and shocked, to barely contained excitement.

"Um son, is everything okay?" Carlisle broke the silence as he watched Edward run his hands very gently over Bella's flat stomach.

He bit back a laugh, he knew that feeling of overwhelming protectiveness that he had felt each time Esme had blessed him with a baby and he saw the same fierce look in his son's eyes.

Edward whispered something to Bella and after she glared at Rosalie and Alice she nodded and kissed his cheek and Edward rose to his feet bringing Bella with him.

"We were going to save this for later, but thanks to 'Pinky and the Brain' here," he looked at his sisters in law, "we may as well do it now: Bella is pregnant – we are having a baby!"

For one moment there was complete silence before Esme and Megan began cry and the next minute Bella was swallowed up in a fresh round of hugs and congratulations.

The women moved into the kitchen to put the finishing touches on the meal that Esme and Megan had spent the past two days preparing and Bella was bombarded with questions.

Carlisle came inside to slice the roast lamb, and before long, everyone was seated around the beautifully decorated dining room table with plates laden with all sorts of meat and side dishes as Edward and Bella relayed all the information that they had.

Carlisle pronounced the blessing and the conversation rose in volume again.

"How is Bree doing?" Bella asked.

Brianna had been fortunate to get a job working at Sam and Emily Uley's store, the Organic Connection. Surprisingly Bree had embraced her punishment and her grades had already shown a vast improvement. She was not going to graduate at the top of her class, but she would graduate with a few credits from her AP classes and she was also going to be taking a couple of summer classes.

Bree had also applied to and been accepted to the community college nearby. Instead of trying to get out of working, Bree had surprised everyone by taking a huge interest in Sam and Emily's business and even more specifically she was taking an interest in production and preparation of organic foods and produce. She enjoyed interacting with the local restaurateurs and chefs that frequented Sam's store and one more than one occasion, Bree had driven to one or another restaurant to see how the fresh produce was converted into healthy and delicious meals.

Esme teased her that she had received free cooking lessons at home for years but Bree just laughed as she insisted that she was learning something new.

By the time that lunch was finished and all the leftovers had been divided up and put into disposable containers to be taken home, the men had led the children on an Easter egg hunt and with little persuasion the children had all crashed for an afternoon nap in the den, while the men watched a replay of one of the baseball season's opening games.

Esme and Bella cut slices of the various pies and they were set out buffet style on the dining room table with pots of tea and coffee.

The women took their plates and sat outside on the back porch.

Esme smiled at Bella, "So, I received an interesting phone call from Miss Tessa yesterday. It seems that there was quite a scene at the Purple Cow yesterday…" After a couple of moments Bella could not keep a straight face any longer.

She put her head into her hands as she began to giggle. Alice and Rosalie looked at each other and were soon doubled over with laughter as they thought over the previous day's escapade.

Finally Bella calmed down enough and at Alice's prompting, she told them about what had happened, beginning with her 'covert' drive to Woodstock to buy the pregnancy tests.

By the time that she told them about how she tried to sneak down the aisles looking for the tests, they were shrieking with laughter, which drew the men outdoors.

As they were about to walk outside, Edward stopped them. He knew that Bella was going to stop talking if she saw them and so Emmett, Jasper, Carlisle, Edward and Brandon hid behind the floor to ceiling shutters as they listened to the story.

"… and then Pete goes on at Edward about getting 'lessons' from … Carlisle and" Bella took another breath, "finally he asks Edward if…" Bella shook her head in remembered mortification, "if he sent me to buy the sex toys…"

Edward quickly closed the sliding doors as he and the rest of the men lay on the floor behind the wall of the sitting room and howled with laughter.

Emmett had a pillow from the sofa stuffed in his mouth as he snorted and laughed, while Jasper and Carlisle sat wiping tears of mirth off their cheeks.

"Sh! Sh! She's talking again!" Brandon shout whispered and the sight of him crawling on his hands and knees to the door set Emmett off again.

"Bella, you must have been horrified!" Megan said with a giggle as she blotted her mascara.

Bell rolled her eyes, "It was like watching a train wreck about to happen and being powerless to stop it. The worst was when I realized that Apples had found my stash and it was in her mouth! And when she shook and tore the bag – well that was just the end of it for me and I fainted." Bella said with a shrug as she took a sip of her sparkling apple drink, while the others laughed around her.

Suddenly she felt a small fission of electricity and she knew that Edward was close by.

She looked over at Esme, only to find her giggling like a five year old.

Bella sighed, "He's behind me isn't he?" she asked no one in particular.

Alice, Rosalie and Megan nodded with absolute glee.

"Bloodthirsty little suckers," she mumbled under her breath as she turned around to face him. Up until that moment, Edward had no idea what had gone on the day before.

When Bella turned around she saw Emmett, Jasper, Brandon, Carlisle and Edward bent over, as they literally rolled on the ground with laughter.

Bella could not stop the laughter that bubbled up inside her from coming out and soon the only sounds were intermittent comments from the group:

"Stop laughing – I'm going to pee in my pants!"

"Oh Gosh, my stomach is so sore from laughing…"

"Carlisle, you do realize that your kids would provide any psychiatrists with years and years of study material…"

"Shut it Brandon! Your kids are included in this mix!"

Finally the children woke from their nap and everyone besides, Bella and Brandon, who had injured his ankle a couple of weeks before, played a game of lawn football, including Esme, Megan and the children.

The game had to be kept 'kid friendly' and Bella warmed the pies, whipped up the fresh cream and took the ice-cream from the freezer to allow it to soften slightly while Brandon piled a tray with plates, serviettes and mugs.

They carried everything outside just as the game finished and Bella wasn't surprised to have her tray pulled out of her hands by Jasper, "Hey now Darling, you'd better get used to not lifting things for the next few months or else we are going to have a problem." He said as he gave her a wink and carried the pies to the long trestle tables on the lawn.

Bella turned to fetch more pies, but warm hands gripped her waist, "Why don't you go and take a seat next to Mom. I will make sure that everything else comes outside." Edward spoke next to her ear.

Bella turned around to protest, but she got distracted when Edward's lips made contact with her own.

The rest of the afternoon and evening passed in typical noisy 'Cullen' style.

=====HS=====

Bella was relieved when Kebi called her the following day and told her that all of her blood work had come back and everything was normal. A day later Bella received a call from Jeffers. She rolled her eyes as she listened to him gushing and squealing for a full three minutes before she interrupted him.

Thankfully he was making the call from the suite of offices that he used to consult with patients and where he also held his 'mommy and me clinic'. Edward was not surprised to find that Jeffers' prenatal classes and clinic was a huge success.

Bella had been sworn off all exercise for the foreseeable future, except for walking and so she took a slow walk to Edward's offices after school later that week.

Kathy frowned as Bella opened the front door, "Bella, are you okay?"

Bella blushed and nodded, "Yes, I'm fine thanks. I, um," shit! She hadn't really wanted to tell everyone that she was pregnant just yet, but she didn't see any way around it. Just as she was about to disclose the reason for her visit, Jeffers walked into the open area.

"Miss Bella! Oooh, don't you look scrumptious today!" he turned around and smiled at Kathy, "Hon, I'm going to just take Miss Bella back to give her a vitamin shot – you know, pre flu season and all!" he smiled at everyone and waved his arms in the air, "Prevention people! That's the key! Even for you, Mrs. Brady, don't you let your husband breath his nasty germs on you!" he teased the 87-year-old woman, who blushed like a schoolgirl.

Bella shook her head and hid her laughter as she pulled Jeffers down the hallway.

"Come on 'Lothario'! Honestly, does Claude know that you are such a manwhore?"

Jeffers laughed and smoothed down his artfully mussed up blonde hair, "Oh please, my Claude knows that I only do sausage, darling! Kitty never really interested me."

Bella blushed as his words sank in but she couldn't help the giggle that escaped which made Jeffers grin, "I knew that underneath that 'blushing bride' persona lurked a little smut-monkey! Come on girl; let's see what 'Doctor Good love' has been up to!"

Once they were in his office, Bella was relieved that Jeffers became one hundred percent professional. He had read the copy of her file that Kebi had sent via courier and he knew whatever she did about Bella's pregnancy.

After he had taken her blood pressure, and he had weighed and measured her, Jefferson asked Bella to take a seat in one of the armchairs that was tucked away in a corner of the office.

Jeffers had redecorated the three small rooms that Edward had allotted to him. The rooms all had a homely, comfortable feel to them. There was a small sofa and two mismatched armchairs in one corner that were covered in a pale blue covers. Scatter cushions in different fabrics and patterns added splashes of color to the room.

The small bathroom felt more like a guest bathroom rather than a doctor's bathroom. The walls were lined with antique postcards that had been framed, while a pretty blue blind ensured privacy at the window.

Jeffers poured them each a glass of Virgin mint julep tea as he sat across from her, "Okay, Miss Bella, first of all, I think that your dates are fairly accurate, which means that you are thirteen weeks along and just into your second trimester and everything looks fine. Your weight is perfect, because you are small framed, but as long as you continue to eat a healthy diet, which I will give you before you leave and as long as you take your prenatal vitamins, there is no reason for concern."

Bella felt relief upon hearing the news. "So everything's okay?"

Jeffers face lost his customary sardonic smirk as he reached out to take her hand. His blue eyes softened, "You need to relax, Miss Bella. There is no reason to think that you will not give birth to a healthy and if I may say so, genetically 'breathtakingly' beautiful baby in autumn."

Bella felt tears flood her eyes and she blushed.

Jeffers told her to 'sit tight' and he quickly moved to a book case behind his desk as he gave Bella some time to recover.

Bella blew her nose and sipped her tea. Her hormones were the only indication that she wasn't herself. One moment she was happy and the next she wanted to cry or scream. Edward had been trying to encourage her to speak to his mother or sisters about their pregnancies but Bella was almost afraid to bring the subject up.

She knew that her fears were unfounded but she still worried that if she fixated on the baby inside of her, she would somehow lose it.

Jeffers came back and sat down before he put a small stack of books, brochures and a couple of DVDs on the table between them.

Bella's eyebrows shot up, "What's all this?"

Jeffers smirked, "This, my dear, is your homework for the next month."

"What?"

Jefferson laughed, "That's right, Mrs. Cullen, you are going to read all of these books, pamphlets and brochures and you are going to watch both DVDs. I expect you to make notes and write down all the questions that either you or your husband has and we will be discussing them when we meet every second week until you are done." Bella opened her mouth to protest but Jeffers waved her back into her seat, "It's no good protesting because if I decide to take you on as a client, you will have to follow my rules."

"If you decide? Are you fucking kidding me?" Bella felt her anger rise.

Jeffers lost his smile and glared at her, "Listen here Bella, let's cut the bullshit, shall we? You are petrified that you are going to lose this baby as well. You feel as if you don't deserve to have a healthy and perfect child and you don't know how your husband still loves you. Am I right?"

The silence in the room was thick with tension as Bella stood with her back to the room. She felt her resolve begin to crumble as Jefferson's words struck her heart.

"Am. I. Right?" he asked softly.

Bella turned around slowly and nodded, "Yes,"

Jefferson nodded, "Good, now please come and sit down so that I can tell you my story. Bella, Kebi has been my mentor and champion for many years. She knew my family and when I was growing up, she watched me struggle with my sexuality and sexual orientation. My father wanted me to follow in his footsteps and become a doctor, so that's what I went to university to study for, even though I never wanted that. My mother wanted me to marry a petite, pretty blonde girl and that's what I was about to do when Kebi stopped me."

Bella was shocked. She would never have thought that the openly homosexual man sitting opposite her was anything like he was describing.

"What happened?" she felt compelled to ask.

"Kebi called me two weeks before my wedding and asked me to have dinner with her and her family." Jefferson smiled at the memory.

"Sandy, my fiancé couldn't attend and so I went alone. Claude was there and I knew as soon as he looked at me that I could never commit my life to a woman that I had less than no feelings for. I agonized for the next four days, but I finally told Sandy and then my parents that I was never going to be a doctor and that I was not marrying Sandy because I am gay."

Bella gasped, "What did they do?"

Jeffers smiled sadly, "Well, I haven't seen them in ten years, and at first I did everything that I could to push Claude away, I didn't feel as if I deserved to be happy, but he never gave up on me. So Claude and I moved to Montpelier and I got my nursing and midwifery degree and I worked hard in therapy for a few years to become comfortable with having people love me. I worked with Kebi for about five years in Woodstock before we saw this place and the rest you know."

Jeffers reached over and took Bella's hand again, "The point is, I could have been afraid all my life, Bella. I know that I've never lost a child, and I can only imagine what that must feel like, but I did lose a family. Do I deserve another one? Yes I do! Do you deserve to have another baby, or tons of babies? Of course you do! You are good, kind, loving and you will be an amazing mother. Edward will be a wonderful father and you have every reason to expect good things!"

He stood up and pulled Bella to her feet, "Now; no more bullshit! You are going to be happy and you are going to buy baby things, and share this amazing experience with your husband, family and the rest of this crazy town, do you understand?" he held her shoulders as he gave her a mock glare.

Bella bit her lip and nodded, "Yes, Sister Jeffers,"

Jefferson laughed, "That is a compliment, Darling! Now, let's talk 'turkey'."

For the next half an hour, Jefferson pointed out chapters in the three books that he had given her that were of particular interest. There was a book on first pregnancies, one on high-risk pregnancies and one on the baby's development from conception to age five.

Bella noticed that the books were brand new and when she queried this, Jefferson reassured her that he kept copies of the publications and he would be charging her for them.

Just before she left, Jefferson knew what Bella needed and so he smiled as he reached for his phone and dialed Edward's extension number.

"Hi. Can you come in here for a minute?"

Seconds later Edward flew through the door with a wild look in his eyes, "Is everything okay? Bella? Love?"

Jeffers shook his head and rolled his eyes, "Relax, Doctor Cullen, she is fine. I just thought that you two would like to get another peek at Little Turkey?"

"Little Turkey?" Edward growled.

Jeffers grinned and nodded, "Hey don't blame me that you are having a baby around Halloween or Thanksgiving! You should be grateful that we don't name him or her Spooky or Zombie, now let's see if LT is awake."

By the way that Bella's face lit up, he knew that he had made the right decision. In spite of everything, Bella just needed to know that her baby was alive and growing.

Edward held both of Bella's hands as Jeffers turned on their new state-of-the-art ultrasound machine that had been delivered three months before. Jeffers had begged, pleaded and argued for one until Edward, Ned and Carlisle had given in. Edward had been pleased to purchase one at a great price and the added bonus was that Jefferson was fully qualified to conduct the scans. He was a closet techie, and Edward and Ned teased him for pouring over medical technology magazines every chance that he got.

The new machine could be used for all of their ultrasound requirements, not just obstetrics and Edward had not been more pleased than when he heard his baby's heartbeat a moment before he saw the baby bird like fluttering on the screen.

"Well, will you look at that? One healthy little turkey just basting away in mommy's tummy." Jeffers grinned at Edward's half scowl.

=====HS=====

As the weeks passed without any indication that Bella's pregnancy was in jeopardy, it seemed that everyone in the Cullen family began to relax and enjoy the coming summer.

Brianna had surprised everyone as she finished her school career with a decent enough grade to be offered a part-time apprentice to a 5-star culinary school in Stowe, provided that she took two years courses in nutrition and hygiene at the local college.

The chef at 'Saunters Culinary School and Eatery' was a terrifying looking Frenchman by the name of Gerard du Pont, who drove all the way into Hope Springs to collect his fruit and vegetables. He had met Bree and for some reason, he was taken with her. It was Gerard that encouraged her to take a part-time job at his restaurant for the summer.

Esme and Carlisle were a little weary of the attention that Gerard showed their youngest child, but their fears were put to rest when Gerard and his beautiful wife, Izebella, dropped by to see them. Izebella assured them that Gerard's intentions with Bree were strictly professional and so they gave their permission.

Bella was happy to be on holiday, and she could not believe that she had been working for a full school year already.

Seth had dropped by her classroom to see her as she was closing up the room for the holidays.

"How are you doing, Bella?" he asked as he perched on the corner of her desk.

Bella smiled at him, "Oh I'm fine thanks Seth. We are almost at seventeen weeks now, so almost halfway through."

Seth nodded, "That's good, that's good. Look Bella, you have become a valuable member of our staff and we really don't want to lose you, but I know that you need time off for when the baby comes. Do you know what you want to do yet?"

Bella had been wondering about this herself. Edward wanted her to stay home, but Bella loved her job and she didn't want to take two or more years off from teaching.

"I would like to take off from when the baby comes to spring break if possible?"

Seth nodded enthusiastically, "That's what I was going to suggest. If you work up until the end of September and then come back after Easter, would that be okay? We have excellent baby care facilities and you will be just down the hall, and…" Bella laughed when Seth had to stop babbling to take a breath.

"Seth! Stop! You don't have to convince me, I promise. I love this school and being here, and Edward and I have been to see the nursery and it's wonderful. Mrs. Donnelly is so good with the babies. So, if your answer is, yes, I will be coming back and don't forget that you will still see me for the writing club. It's taken off so well, that I don't want to drop it. I will just bring Little Bit with me."

Seth smiled, "Little Bit?"

Bella blushed, "That's what Edward calls him or her. It's better than Little Turkey, which is what my midwife calls him."

Seth laughed, "That guy is a real character. Anyway there was something else that I wanted to talk to you about. Have you given any more thought about getting your Masters Degree? I know that you have a lot on your plate, but I must tell you, Bella, at the last Governing Body meeting that I went to, your name came up. It seems that people are expecting great things from you."

Bella's mouth popped open in shock. She really hadn't given it much thought recently, but when Seth and his wife, Claire had gone to dinner at Edward and Bella's house, Seth had brought up the subject of a succession plan for the role of principal and he had asked Bella if that was something that she would be interested in.

Bella was hesitant because she loved to teach, but Seth had quickly pointed out that he still taught Mathematics from grades five to eight.

Bella was at a loss for words but Seth spoke again, "Look, Bella, you are a very gifted teacher. You really care about these kids and it shows and you don't stop with only your class or grade. You seem to make time for every child, even if you don't know them and they thrive from the attention. I'm not going to say that being a principal is all fun and games, because there is a lot of red tape and bullshit, but it is very rewarding, especially if you have the parents and the governing body behind you."

Bella shrugged, "It's tempting, but Seth, getting my Masters while having a baby and teaching? How the hell am I going to do that?"

Seth grinned with satisfaction and Bella narrowed her eyes at him, "What have you been up to?"

He pulled an envelope from behind his back and put it on Bella's desk before he moved swiftly to the doorway, "I just took the liberty of making a few enquiries for you, you know just in case? Anyhow, have a great summer, Bells!" he winked before he hurried out the door. He whistled as he made his way across the parking lot to his car. He knew that Bella would not be able to resist. It was going to be a great summer, he thought as he headed home.

Bella was tempted to throw the envelope in the trash bin but at the last minute she hissed as she tucked the offending package into the side of her new wheelie basket that Edward had insisted that she use instead of carrying her heavy bag to and from the car each day.

Just the thought of Edward brought a smile to Bella's face. As she cast a final look around her empty classroom, she thought of how Edward treated her like a princess ever since they had found out about the baby.

Every evening Bella was treated to a foot, neck or back rub. She barely had to voice a craving or a want for some food or drink and it would appear. Edward held her when she cried the very first time her jeans didn't fit her and then he made love to her for hours to prove how desirable he found her.

When she had screamed at him for tracking mud into the house, he had stoically bit his lip until it almost bled before he had ushered her off to his mother's shop, while he gritted his teeth and mopped the floors.

When she ate spicy food and then spent the rest of the night with an upset stomach and indigestion, Edward had spent two hours convincing her that she was not having a miscarriage before he fell asleep on the floor outside the bathroom door, while Bella cursed her cravings.

The man was a saint and Bella loved him more than ever, which was another reason that Bella didn't feel as if she could even think about studying again.

=====HS=====

Three weeks later Edward and Bella sat in Kebi's office. Bella could not stop her legs from bouncing as Kebi went over her latest test results.

"So Bella, I am happy to report that everything is normal. Your weight, blood pressure, fetal movements are all one hundred percent normal and so we are taking you off the 'high risk' pregnancy list."

Bella frowned, "Are you sure? I mean, what if something happens? What if I have cramps or bleeding? What if?"

Edward put his hand over Bella's where it lay protectively over her swollen belly.

"Sweetheart, nothing" he began but Bella interrupted him.

"Don't say that! You don't know, Edward!"

He sighed inwardly as he recognized the wide eyed panic in her eyes. The occurrences of her fear driven blind panic attacks had lessoned over the past months, but there were times like now, that Bella was certain that something was going to go wrong.

"Baby, come on, nothing is going to happen to Little Bit. We are going to have a very healthy and happy baby in twenty weeks time. You need to have faith, remember?" he said patiently.

Bella nodded before she looked at Kebi and mumbled an apology.

"Bella, all mothers-to-be have fears. I have told you that the pregnant woman is also prone to bed dreams and irrational thoughts. Now, let's go and take a look at your little one and see if we can see what color Esme and Alice is going to be decorating the nursery!"

As always Kebi's calm manner helped to sooth Bella's fears. She felt the excitement return as she lay down and felt the cold gel spread across her belly.

Almost immediately they heard the strong steady sound of the baby's heart.

Suddenly Kebi laughed softly, "Look at that!"

Edward's head shot up and he stared hard at the screen, "Is that…?" the technician nodded and Edward's smile grew wider than Bella had ever seen it.

He looked at Kebi, "Are you sure?"

"Of course we are sure, Edward." Kebi nodded to the technician who pointed at the outline.

"That is a very clear picture of your daughter sucking her thumb. Congratulations, Bella and Edward, you are having a girl!"

Bella didn't even hear the rest of the conversation, all she could see was the startlingly clear image of their daughter, oh God, their daughter!

=====HS=====

Bella didn't remember much of their drive home that day. All she wanted to do was to rip Edward's clothes off and 'celebrate' their daughter.

Just thinking those words in her head made Bella giggle and Edward shook himself out of his own baby-induced daze to look over at his wife.

God, she was beautiful! Everything about her was almost iridescent with the pure joy that was seeping out of every pore! Her eyes sparkled and shone with an inner fire, her face glowed as her hand skimmed over the adorable baby bump.

She looked so damn cute in her short, flirty sundress and white strappy sandals. Her hair was pulled up into a high ponytail that bounced with each movement of her head.

Sexy. Very sexy.

Edward felt a familiar stirring in his jeans and he shifted uncomfortably.

Their eyes met as Edward's hand slid over her thigh, inching beneath the soft cotton.

"Fuck, you are beautiful!" Edward said almost to himself.

Bella felt a jolt of desire at his words. Edward didn't curse often and when he did, it went straight to her nether regions, which seemed to be one of the only cravings that she had in her second trimester. She loved sex! She craved sex! Every day and all the time!

Bella knew that on a couple of occasions, Edward would deliberately try and distract her or tire her out, but his ploy seldom worked.

He would look at her with wide startled eyes as her gaze darkened and she licked her lips before she pounced.

Edward's protests were half hearted at best. He loved every moment of his new horny wife. He teased her that she was a teenage boy in a woman's body with her appetites for food and sex.

Bella's eyes drifted down to the bulge in his pants and she bit her bottom lip, "Anxious to get home, love?" she asked coyly.

Edward grinned as he rolled his eyes. His foot inched down on the accelerator.

"I'm more anxious to take my gorgeous wife to bed and spend the rest of the day showing her how much I want her." He retorted.

They both sighed with relief as Edward swung his car into the driveway and they hurried inside.

As the connecting door to the garage close behind them, Edward gently pushed Bella against the wall as she dropped her purse on the richly polished floor.

"I want you so badly, Edward."

Her words caused the fire raging inside him to ignite into an inferno.

His face changed and Bella felt a thrill as it morphed into something almost feral; his eyes were black as he growled deep in his throat before her dress was push off her shoulders, exposing her puckered nipples. He loved her heavier, fuller breasts and he pushed her white sheer bra down as he lips followed, sucking and nipping the rosy flesh.

Bella pushed her hands between them as she fumbled with his leather belt. The sound of his zipper was loud in the quiet house. Their ragged breathing sounded harsh and animalistic, coupled with their grunts and growls.

Edward's hands gripped the hem of her dress and he pushed her legs apart roughly.

"Edward!" Bella's eyes widened as his fingers gripped the wispy fabric of her panties and he pushed it aside before his finger plunged deep inside her waiting heat.

"Now! Fuck, I have to have you now!" He growled.

His hands gripped her ass as she pulled his leaking cock free.

With one movement Bella lifted her legs to grip his hips as he drove deep inside her.

"FUCK! That's it, baby! Fuck me!" Bella ordered, wild with lust.

"Like that?" thrust "Huh? You want me to fuck you like that?" thrust, thrust. "Tell me! Tell me now!" thrust, thrust.

"YES! Oh, oh, g-Edward, ngghh, I'm cu-cumming! Edwardddd!"

Edward threw his head back as her walls fluttered around him and he let out a loud triumphant laugh, "Not" thrust "finished" thrust "with you!" thrust.

Bella wrapped her arms around his neck as she buried her face into the crook. Her fingers gripped his hair, pulling it into even wilder disarray.

"I love you… I love you…" Bella chanted as Edward drove deep inside her over and over again.

She felt her climax spiraling again and she began to counter each of his thrusts until they exploded with a shout and a wail.

Edward's legs were shaking uncontrollably as he held Bella firmly and lowered them both to the floor.

Once Bella felt as if she could breathe again, she lifted her head.

The entrance hall looked as if a bomb had gone off. The small table next to the front door had been knocked over and the vase of summer flowers was lying on its side, with water and flowers scattered everywhere.

The hat stand that held their umbrellas was leaning precariously to one side.

Bella shook her head and began to giggle.

"Wow…" she said.

Edward lifted his head from her shoulder and he laughed, "We are like a two-person demo crew!"

"We need to shower," Bella said.

Edward agreed and with a grimace at the separation, he stood up, tucked himself back into his jeans without bothering to zip them and helped Bella to her feet.

She blushed at what she must look like. Her dress was hanging around her waist, her bra had been pushed under her breasts and her panties were soaked with their combined juices.

Her eyes skimmed over Edward. His jeans were unzipped and balancing on his hip bones, exposing the deep 'V' and the trail of burned bronze hair that she loved.

Edward saw her lick her lips as she whimpered and he couldn't help himself from adjusting his half softened dick quite blatantly.

Bella's cheeks blushed deeply and she stumbled towards the stairs. She couldn't believe that after that, she wanted him again! She was turning into a real slut!

"Um, shower." She mumbled.

Edward snickered under his breath as he put a supportive hand on her back, "Yeah, um, shower."

=====HS=====

Bella and Edward were eating dinner with Carlisle and Esme that evening. Bree's grounding had been modified for 'good behavior' and she was having dinner with Riley and his family.

After their shower, followed by an afternoon 'nap', they cleaned up the house, took the dogs for a walk and fed them, before they drove the short distance to the farm.

They found Esme putting the finishing touches on dinner. She smiled and hugged them warmly before she told Edward to drag his father out of his study and away from the pile of files that he had been working on. Carlisle had begun to volunteer at the free clinic in nearby Reading and it seemed that their record keeping skills were not what they should be.

Esme shooed Bella over to the breakfast island, where she 'allowed' her to make a large mixed salad as they chatted amicably. Bella knew that Esme was almost bouncing off the walls as she waited for news of weather the newest addition to the family was going to be a little girl or another boy.

"How was the visit with Kebi, Sweetheart?" Esme asked as she stirred some heavy cream into the peppered mushroom sauce that she was preparing for the steaks that Carlisle and Edward were going to grill.

Bella bit back her laughter, "Good, really good. Kebi sends her love and she is excited to see you and Dad next weekend."

Each year, the two couples tried to take a long weekend when they went to a cabin in the woods that they rented.

The cabin was owned by a friend of Amun. The 'cabin' was made of wooden logs, and was rustic but that is where the similarity with a 'log cabin' ended. The house that they rented out was finished with the last word in luxury. In winter when they were knee deep in snow, the huge fireplaces warmed the entire house, while in summer, the glass walls that opened up onto a wraparound porch, allowed the cool breezes to blow through the rooms.

Esme hummed, "I honestly can't wait. It seems that the more we should be slowing down in our old age, the more that there is to do!"

Bella laughed, "Old age! Honestly, Mom, you and Dad are the most active people that I know!"

Esme laughed, "Yes, well, with us it seems that the less we try to do, the more we end up doing. I just don't think we would know what to do with ourselves if we lived in some retirement village somewhere."

Bella's smile faded, "I don't like to think of you and Carlisle not being here." She said quietly.

Esme wiped her hands on a towel and hurried to her side, where she pulled her into a quick hug, "Oh darling girl, Carlisle and I are just fine and it will be a long time before we are ready to go anywhere."

Bella closed her eyes as she willed the silly tears back. She knew that it was probably just her hormones but the thought of not having Esme or Carlisle around burned a hole in her chest.

As she let Esme's unique smell of earth, sunshine, cookies and mint wash over her, she felt a calm and peacefulness deep inside her.

"I'm going to be a mom, May-May." She whispered.

Esme blinked her own tears away as she kissed Bella's forehead and stepped back, "Yes, you are and you are going to be the most wonderful mother, Bella. You and Edward are going to pour your hearts into this blessed child and even though you will make mistakes, both of you will, this baby is going to be so loved and cherished by all of us."

Bella let out a shaky laugh and Esme walked back to the stove to check on the baby potatoes that were roasting in the oven with freshly roasted garlic, olive oil and sprigs of herbs from the garden.

"Did you and Carlisle make mistakes?"

Esme dissolved into snorts of laughter, "Oh Bella, we screwed up all the time – still do in fact. A point in case is our darling daughter lying to us for months!"

She took the potatoes out of the oven and turned to smile at Bella, "Go and see if the boys are finished grilling, will you?"

Bella nodded and walked outside to see Carlisle and Edward standing at the grill with beers in their hands.

"Hey Dad," Bella said as she walked over to kiss his cheek.

"You are looking beautiful, Bella. Edward's just finished telling me that you are no longer a 'high risk'. That is excellent news." He said with a crooked smile that was so like his son's.

Bella nodded, "It is good news. Esme asked if you are almost ready?"

"I was just letting the steaks rest, so we can go ahead and eat."

Esme had sat the table outside and they enjoyed a leisurely dinner talking about their plans for the rest of the summer and Carlisle's involvement with the clinic. Carlisle kept them entertained with tales of the town's activities and his role as mayor.

When there was a lull in the conversation Edward took Bella's hand in his and cocked an eyebrow at her.

Bella smiled and nodded. She looked up to see Esme and Carlisle watching them keenly.

"Well? Come on you two! Don't keep us waiting any longer!" Esme said.

Edward and Bella shared a smile before Edward looked at his parents, "We are having a …daughter. It's a girl."

Esme clapped her hands and then she and Carlisle were on their feet hugging each other before they hugged Edward and Bella.

"Congratulations! A girl! Oh! I am so ready for another little girl! Oh Bella! I can't wait to get started on the nursery! Castles? Fairies? Oh! Sandcastles and seashells! No! Underwater wonderland!" Esme looked like an addict that had received a fix – her eyes were closed as she swayed and clasped her hands, "Hmm, I can see it now - all pink and pretty…"

Carlisle looked at Bella and Edward, "If you want to have any say in your baby's room, you had better step in now, because if she has her way…" he chuckled as he took another sip of his beer.

Bella looked from one to the other, "Aren't you going to do something? Say something?" she asked.

Edward shrugged while Carlisle chuckled again, "Nope! She is in 'Granny May-May' mode; nothing I can do to stop her."

Bella narrowed her eyes at the two men, "You. Both. Suck!" she said as she got to her feet.

Carlisle's eyebrows shot up, "Suck? Now you sound like the rest of my kids."

Bella shook her head and concentrated on the problem at hand.

"Mom? Mom! Esme! HEY!" she shouted.

Esme looked at her in shock, "What? Oh Bella what do you think of…"

Bella held out her hand, "Stop! Please! We can talk about the nursery another time, right now; can we just enjoy the fact that we are having a baby girl? And Esme – no pink – not now or ever!"

Esme sighed impatiently, "Oh, okay! But you aren't any fun. I'll be over tomorrow to measure the room."

"Mom…" Edward said in a gentle reprimand. He didn't want to make Bella anxious and he knew that his mother and his sisters could drive anyone crazy. He also knew that when they heard the news, Alice and Rosalie would be rushing over to try and muscle in on the interior decorating.

The rest of the night passed pleasantly and it was one of the few times that Bella was so tired when they got home that she crawled into his arms and she was lightly snoring before he had time to turn the lights out.

=====HS=====

Bella woke up early the next morning with her bladder demanding attention. She pulled on Edward's discarded shirt and quickly made a trip to the bathroom.

Afterwards she let the dogs outside and put the kettle on to boil.

Once she had fed the dogs and made sure that they had water, Bella prepared a tray with teacups, milk jug and an assortment of muffins that she had baked the day before.

Small pots of jelly and grated cheese completed the arrangement and when the kettle had boiled she poured water into the china teapot and carefully carried the tray upstairs.

Roscoe and Apples followed closely behind her. They knew that Bella was a little clumsy and Roscoe was also aware that his master's mate was changing. He sensed it every time he was close to her and it had made him very protective of her.

Once Bella was at the top of the stairs, Roscoe and Apples took their places outside the bedroom door, while Bella put the tray on the coffee table.

She climbed onto the bed and crawled over to where Edward lay sleeping.

He was so handsome that it made Bella's heart skip a beat sometimes.

His hair was wild and tussled, while his mouth, his perfect mouth was slightly pouty and Bella longed to kiss it.

Her eyes followed the path of his body until it came to where the sheet was twisted low on his hips.

She could see the top of his pubic hair.

Bella licked her lips but a low chuckle had her sitting straight up.

"Are you checking me out, Mrs. Cullen?" Edward sleep-filled voice rumbled.

His bright green eyes looked at her with affectionate amusement.

Bella huffed as she stood up and picked up the tray.

"Well, if you are going to make fun of me, then I'm taking this downstairs again…"

Not even a second later, two hands closed over hers and the tray was plucked from her grasp.

"Now there is no need to be hasty, my love. I love that you lust after me. Now, come back to bed."

Bella couldn't resist joining him as he lay naked against the head board with the sheet pulled over his junk.

They ate in an easy silence only making small talk every now and again.

Suddenly the sound of the door bell sent the dogs into a barking frenzy.

Bella looked at the clock with a frown, "It's only twenty after seven on a Saturday morning. Who the hell is here? Are you expecting anyone?"

Edward began to shake his head but then a look of dismay and resignation crossed his face.

"No, but I have an idea who it is." He said woodenly.

He sighed and got up to pull a pair of sweatpants on.

As he jogged down the stairs, the doorbell continued to sound but now there were fists pounding on the wood as well.

Edward tried to shush the dogs as he unlocked the door and glared at the women standing there.

"It's about damn time, Edward! What were you doing? And why is Esme designing the nursery? You know that I'm the design guru around here!" Alice snapped as she pushed her way past him.

"I need coffee and keep it coming. Hey did Bella bake yesterday? I'd kill for waffles." Rosalie's lips brushed his cheek as she side stepped him and she walked up the stairs.

Edward stared outside blankly as Apples and Roscoe ran out of the front door and after a quick jump they bolted across Dawson's common. Great now he would have to go and find the little shits.

He sighed after he heard Bella shrieking loudly, "NO! Absolutely not! No fucking way are you putting leprechauns in my baby's room! Are you crazy Alice? And it's not going to be pink Rose; I don't care what you say! EDWARD!"

The hell had begun.

Edward sighed again and went to find a T-shirt and his running shoes. He smiled to himself; actually that wasn't such a bad idea after all. Miles of freedom compared to being stuck inside with three disagreeable women… not a bad idea at all.

He put his shoes on and ran up the stairs.

"Sorry love, but the dogs got out. I need to fetch them before they go 'fishing' again." He said quickly as he reached inside his closet and pulled on the first T-shirt he found.

When he turned around he wanted to laugh. Alice was pacing as she jotted down notes in a binder, mumbling under her breath like a lunatic; Rosalie was stretched out next to Bella, sipping on his tea and wolfing down his muffins while Bella sat looking like an enraged little girl. Her arms were crossed tightly under her breasts and she had a deep frown between her eyes as she pouted at him.

"You couldn't warn me? Seriously?" Bella whined.

Edward walked over to kiss her mouth but Bella turned her face away childishly.

Edward took her chin in his fingers and gently turned her to face him, "Baby, you would never have believed me, would you?"

With a sigh Bella shook her head, "No,"

Edward smiled and leaned forward to kiss her pouty mouth, "Okay then."

He straightened up and looked from Alice to Rosalie, "Now you two; listen up!" he pointed his finger at them, "Whatever Bella wants is what Bella is going to get, do you understand? No fucking leprechauns or pink shit; hear me Rose? Bella doesn't like pink! If she wants black and white, then that is what she will get, understand?"

Alice gasped and Bella wanted to laugh when she actually clutched her chest, "B-black and white?" she whispered looking traumatized.

Edward narrowed his eyes at them, "Now, you can stay as long as you both behave and you will be gone when I get back and lastly," he smirked, "you two will be telling Esme why she has been denied the honor of decorating her granddaughter's bedroom."

He smoothed his hand over Bella's hair and bent to kiss her and whisper in her ear, "I got your back, babe."

He looked at Rosalie and Alice again. They looked scared and panicked. Good – let them deal with his mother.

"Did you hear me ladies?"

"Yes, Edward." They chorused sulkily.

Bella couldn't believe how meek they sounded.

After he left Alice let out a dramatic sigh and flung herself down next to Bella, "Well, this sucks! May-May is going to kick our asses! She phoned us last night you know, to tell us about Bit and to crow about how she is decorating the nursery! She wouldn't even share! So, we thought that we could beat her to it, but now, Edward's put the kibosh on that one."

Bella actually found herself feeling sorry for them as she looked at their despondent faces.

Finally she couldn't take the dramatic sighs and sad, puppy dog eyes that Alice kept giving her any longer.

"Look, why don't we do this: I will go and shower while you girls start to measure the room. We are using my old room for the nursery. After we have done that, maybe we can look online for some ideas and then maybe in a few weeks we can go to Burlington with Esme and we can do some window shopping." She looked at Alice with a hard stare, "Window shopping, only Alice."

Rosalie feigned an interest in her muffin; Bella had no idea what she was in for!

A/N: So my darlings, this is the second last regular chapter of Hope Springs (I think). I hope that you enjoyed this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it. I love you all and appreciate you all for your reviews and your support. Btw, not long to go for FLO (family like ours) Chapter 1…

Hugs and kisses,

Just ginger/PLU

Quick plug from me:

If you haven't yet, go and start reading TAT (TeamAllTwilight) new read, Bases Loaded. On TWCS and Fanfic.

Go and read any of the stories by Silverblossoms! A little rough, a little kinky and hot as anything!

Recs from my wonderful Beta, Fiorella:

The Daily Grind by Emotion Masen

A year ago Bella Swan had it all, attending college, friends, a boyfriend and her family. Then in one night her entire world came crashing down never to be the same. Edward Cullen recently requested for a job transfer. Relocating to Seattle, to run from his own problems, Edward was determined to never fall victim to another woman. That is until he meets Bella at a coffee house.

Leave it all on the Floor by katiecav

Welcome to the Academy! Bella Swan, former American Ballet Academy Prima Ballarina and Ballroom dancer, finds herself employed with her friend Alice Cullen at Alice's families dance academy. As a Seattle institution the Volterra Academy of Dance received national acclaim when the dance prodigy signed on, but is that the only purpose when the Cullens hired Ms. Swan or did they have hopes that she could teach more than just the students something? Edward hasn't placed competitively since his partner left him high and dry three years ago. That was when he came to teach ballroom at his family's school. He's convinced he's happy, spreading the love for dance through the younger generation, but that all changed when he spied a brown haired stranger. He saw the way she moved at the club and now he can't get her out of his head. He tells himself that it's best that he doesn't know who she is. He doesn't want another woman in his life to complicate things. It would be best just to forget her, so why can't he. What will happen when he finds out that the girl he can't forget is the new ballet instructor at the Academy? More importantly can they ignore the chemistry that they have from the beginning? Will Bella shake Edward out of his shell and will he find the strength to get out and dance again? Can she teach him to leave it all on the floor? Find out

Leather & Lace by OTB

It's Bella's 21st birthday, and her best friend Alice has bought her a very special gift. What was supposed to be a night of fun, meaningless sex turns into something more. (All human; graphic lemons)