A/N: Hi there. As always a thank you to those of you who took the time to review; it's much appreciated :) . And as always thank you to the lovely Sassy who took time out of her very busy life to edit this chapter. xx
I would also like to publically acknowledge Greenaway's work in this chapter.
I want to say that this chapter comes with a warning. It may induce severe cringing or vomiting! Don't say I didn't warn you :) ...LOL...
So this chapter is a mish mash of POV's and I need to tell you how Rosalie and Aro's pov's are structured. I have mixed their points of view together in the scenes they have. When one of them speaks it will be followed up by their own internal monologue before switching to the others point of view, it will keep switching back and forth throughout their scenes. To help warn you when the point of view is going to change I have put in a series of ... at the end of the previous persons monologue.
I apologize if it's confusing it was the only way I could get both of their points of view in without making the chapter even longer than it is already.
Disclaimer: S. Meyer owns twilight and the related characters. Cinnamon Twist & Greenaway co-own this story. Any lyrics used are the property of the owner.
FAMLY FEUDS, FESTIVIES & THE WOODSTOCK REVIVAL...
BELLA POV...
I didn't mean to eavesdrop on Edward's conversation with Esme but curiosity and fear got the better of me and I hovered in the doorway trying to catch what he was saying. He ran his fingers through his hair a sure sign he was frustrated which meant that Esme was taking the news we were back together like I knew she would.
Her anger had obviously not abated any since she left Nepal. Edward's voice was determined as he told his mother that he would not lose me again. Although I could not hear the words Esme spoke I knew she was furious, I could hear the angry buzz like a swarm of attacking bees coming from the phone.
My eyes widened in stunned disbelief when I heard him bark an angry ultimatum down the phone to her. Although I didn't want Edward to fight with his mother over me I could not stop the rush of Love, pride, gratitude and happiness I felt for him. I wanted to rip the phone from his hand and throw myself upon his body in adoration.
The sound like angry bees seemed to diminish as Esme calmed down; she was obviously taking heed of Edward's warning. The feeling of happiness dissipated and were rapidly replaced with fear when Edward said he'd see her next weekend...
Neither Edward nor I had seen anybody apart from Aro in the few weeks we had been home from Nepal. Obviously our families knew we were back we had just asked them to give us some time to get settled before they visited.
It seemed Esme had waited long enough to see her 'Baby Boy,' as she referred to Edward as. The woman was completely over the top since she'd learned the truth. I may as well have been the devil; I was the devil as far as Esme was concerned. I doubt she'd ever forgive me for not confiding in her and I was sure she'd never ever forgive me for abandoning Edward to 'shack up' with Jacob when Edward had 'needed' me most.
Nothing Edward or Carlisle said to her in way of explanation made an ounce of difference, she stubbornly clung to the notion I had betrayed Edward by fleeing to live with Jake. I had told Edward it didn't bother me, and it didn't, I was convinced Esme only blamed me because she couldn't face up to her own failing as a mother.
Edward ended the conversation and sighed as he put the phone on the table. I continued to watch him from the doorway, watching the way the sun turned his hairy a vibrant coppery gold, he was beautiful. Edward had well and truly conquered his fears. He was such a different person to the one he had been. It was like all the best parts of him shone even brighter while the darker side had disappeared altogether.
He suddenly took off his shirt and my breath caught in my throat, the sun gleamed on his pale skin giving it subtle radiance, although he had lost so much weight he was still physically beautiful; his naked body never failed to take my breath away.
I wanted desperately to touch him so I hurried over to where he was and slid into his lap.
My hands slipped over his bare shoulders and I sighed happily. "I love you Edward," I said a little breathlessly.
"I love you too baby. With all my heart and soul," He replied softly.
"I believe that a little more every day, but none more so than today." I murmured. I sucked my bottom lip between my teeth and looked at him pensively for a moment, "I overheard your conversation with your mum. Thank you for defending me. But are you sure it was fair to give her an ultimatum like that?"
I knew he wouldn't be angry at me for listening to his private conversation but I blushed in embarrassment that I had been purposefully eavesdropping.
"She wasn't happy, but I'm sure she will get over it. I meant what I said to her. She accepts it or she can stay away, we've all had enough complications in our lives." He leaned forward and kissed me gently, "Nothing is more important to me than you and the kids. Nothing."
I smiled against his lips, "you know I'm going to be giving Charlie the same ultimatum in few minutes don't you?"
He shook his head frowning, "I don't want to cause problems with you and your dad baby. Though; if I'm honest it will feel pretty fucking good to hear you say that you want to be with me. I don't think I'll ever get tired of that."
"It doesn't matter what Charlie says he won't be able to get me to change my mind...I want you Edward Cullen, I want you forever."
"You've always had me, my beautiful Bella and you always will." He murmured.
My hand trembled in Edward's. As much as I was petrified to be seeing Esme again I was equally terrified to face Charlie. My father had not taken the news of Edward and my reunion well and had nearly had an aneurysm when I told him we were back living together on Waiheke Island.
He had refused to ever be in the same room as Edward again, ranting to me how he'd never been good enough for me and that he never would be, that was until I gave him the same type of ultimatum as Edward had given Esme.
My father had been horrified that I would choose Edward over him, he had tried to guilt me and grouching at me, trying to get me to change my mind but of course I refused to budge. It was my life to live how I wanted and with whom I wanted and I wanted Edward, forever.
Charlie finally relented, when he saw I would not be moved, and agreed, albeit ungraciously, to join the rest of our family for the weekend. Of course Renee had been overjoyed when she had heard the news, smugly telling me she 'told me so!' My parents were the epitome of 'good grace,' I thought sarcastically.
"Oh Jesus Edward. Tell me again why we are doing this?" I hissed as the cars containing our family began to appear in the driveway.
"It's going to be fine Baby. You and me have been through much worse than this... This is a piece of cake...We got this in the bag honey. Trust me."
I looked up at Edward in mild envy, I was jealous that he never let his life be ruled by fear anymore. I wanted to be like that, I wanted to be courageous enough to face my problems head on instead of wanting to run from them. Well regardless if I was ready to face my problems head on I was going to have to, Edward had a firm grip on my hand and there was no way he was going to relinquish it.
Matisse squirmed on my hip and I reaffirmed my grip on her. I knew it was beyond cowardly that I was using my adored youngest daughter has as a human shield, a buffer between me and Charlie's fury.
"I'm glad you think so...Well I guess there's no backing out now." I grumbled to Edward.
"Nope," He replied as he pulled me toward the front door. I trembled in fear as I stood with Edward and our children, presenting a united front; despite Edward's optimism I didn't believe that we had this 'in the bag.'
Charlie got out of the car and immediately gave Edward the fiercest death glare he could muster, confirming my suspicions that this was not going to be a 'piece of cake,', I quailed under the intensity of it but Edward didn't seem to be affected by it at all. Renee, who still adored Edward, gave him a bright smile and waved.
Edward was relaxed enough to joke about Renee still loving his ass, and I would have found it hilarious if it wasn't for the steam coming out of Charlie's ears.
I unleashed my most powerful weapon, placing Matisse on the ground. And like I knew she would she went straight for her grandpa Charlie. I watched smugly as my father's angry demeanour completely melted and he reached out for Matisse with a blinding smile. He was putty in her tiny hands.
"Hi Dad," I said as soon as Matisse was tucked up in his arms.
"Hi Belly Bear," He said gruffly. His anger had only disappeared from the surface it seemed; but he gave me a hint of a smile. I looked at him pointedly; I was not going to let him ignore Edward. "Ed...Edward," he choked out, more of the anger evident this time.
"Hello Charlie." Edward said politely, "You look well."
"I'd be better if I wasn't up worrying about my baby girl all night every night." Charlie grumbled.
My love and respect for Edward grew when he turned to Charlie and offered him and Renee an apology for not only breaking the promise he made them but for hurting me repeatedly as well.
"...That being said and out of the way," He said, "I still want you both to know that if you want to discuss this with me privately later, I am more than happy to do so. You both deserve answers and I'm happy to give them to you. But for now, I think your daughter and grandchildren should take priority. I know they all missed you both terribly." Edward said pointedly.
"You can bet we'll be discussing this later Edward," Charlie barked fiercely "and you to Bella," there was only a touch of his former fierceness when he said my name but I still cringed into Edward's side.
"Yeah alright Dad. If it will make you feel better," I said warily. This was going to be a very, very long weekend.
Charlie gave me a frown but stayed silent; his attention was suddenly captured by all his grandchildren who were suddenly vying for his attention.
Renee hurried forward and threw her arms around both Edward and I. "I'm so happy for the both of you. I always knew you'd get over this hurdle. I've never seen two people more in love than you two always were."
"Thanks Mum," I said gratefully.
"Don't worry about your father he'll come round. He always does." She whispered.
Edward hugged Renee to him and told her how nice it was to see her again; he sounded sincere, and he joked with her about Aro's cookies. She flushed a little when he warned her against eating the brownies.
Charlie and the grandchildren suddenly captured Renee's attention and she bustled happily into the house after them.
Edward slid his arm around my waist, "Told you baby. You and me... we got this." He said as he kissed the top of my head.
I loved Edward for his positive attitude but I was pretty sure that we were in for a rough ride, especially with Esme. The woman had turned into the devil, she was bloody fearsome.
"Wish some your positive atoms would rub off on me," I said with a grin that I was sure came out more like a grimace.
He looked down at me and smirked, "I can rub up on you whenever you like. You name the time and place and I will SO be there."
"Don't tempt me Edward. We're meant to be showing my parents how mature we are now," My thoughts were on the time they came to dinner and Edward and I had fucked while they waited upstairs, "you know we have to make it past the bathroom on our way to the kitchen. And if you say things like that I won't be able to stop myself from making us take a pit-stop."
Edward looked at me like he wouldn't be averse to taking a detour to the bathroom. It look like he was about to insist we make a bathroom stop when the sound of a car slowing and pulling into the driveway stopped the thought in its tracks.
"Oh good. It's my cock-blocking parents." He groaned. "Ready for round two?" He asked me with a waggle of his eyebrows.
I laughed out loud; it had been so long since I had heard Edward refer to his parents as cock blockers. I was far from ready to face Esme, if it wasn't for the fact I knew she wouldn't be able to scream abuse at me I think I would have actually run and hid.
"No I'm not ready but I'm outta time to run and hide. So let's go." I said half jokingly. The option to run and hide was beyond a temptation.
"Thatta girl. It will be fine." Edward said soothingly as he led me toward his parent's car.
I couldn't help but relax a little when I saw Carlisle; he was obviously overjoyed to see us together and he said so less than a moment later.
He pulled me into his embrace and I had no qualms about letting go of Edward's hand so I could hug him fully. "...I'm doing so much better now. And how about you? Are things ok now?" I whispered...
"They are better. But she's not the same demure woman I married that's for sure," He murmured.
"Is she going to be ok here?" I asked unable to control my anxiety.
"She'll be fine just give her some time." He reassured me with a smile.
"Kay,"
I stayed by Carlisle side while Esme made a fuss over Edward. I hated the way she treated him like a five year old, it was degrading to Edward in my opinion. I made a vow there and then to never do that to my own children.
Esme finally turned toward me and gave me an almost steely look. "Isabella. You look... lovely." The smile she plastered on her face never made it to her eyes; they were still cold and calculating, "Thank you for inviting us. I've missed my son and grandchildren and it was kind of you to invite us here." She added with some difficulty.
Esme's resentment was thinly veiled but I had expected even worse from her so I was slightly taken aback.
"Hello Esme. You're looking well and I...I'm glad you could make it. I know the kids are looking forward to seeing you." I said as politely as I could in my terrified state.
As if my son could feel my distress from the house he suddenly appeared at my side. He took my hand and smiled shyly up at Esme.
She knelt down beside me looking at Louis is absolute veneration, "hello Louis. My how you've grown," She whispered. Esme's expression was almost awestruck as she gazed at my son.
Louis reached out and took her hand. He pointed toward the house and Esme, I saw her face twist in surprise that Louis did not speak to her but she nodded her in understanding and let him lead her into the house. Carlisle seemed happy to let Esme go on without him; he was content to stay outside with Edward and I.
Edward watched his mother disappear into the house before he turned and smirked at his Dad. There was no way to contain my shock when Edward started taunting Carlisle about his fearsome wife. I thought Carlisle would take offense but he just grinned slyly at Edward before making some smart ass comment of his own.
It was wonderful to see Edward and Carlisle so relaxed in each other's company. I doubted their relationship had ever been as natural and effortless as it was now...
...The delicious sound of my children's laughter suddenly drifted from the open door. Carlisle gave the front door one longing look before giving me a cheeky smile and disappearing into the house.
Edward turned to me and smirked, "Two down. Only two to go and the last two are the easy ones... Speaking of easy, here comes Rose now..." He teased as Emmett, Jasper, Rose and Alice pulled into the driveway.
Emmett was the first out of the car. His question was directed at his brother but his were firmly on me.
"Jesus fucking Christ Assward what the fuck have you done to my SISTER?" He hissed at Edward as he made his way toward us. "Fuck Bella I hoped you caned his emoward ass before you agreed to take him back. Though why you'd take the fucktard back is beyond me."
"You know it won't happen again Emm. We've been through this." Edward muttered.
I sighed in exasperation when Emmett tugged me out of Edward's arms and into his own. While I could stand by at let our parents voice their displeasure, I didn't have to listen to or hold back around Emmett.
"Jesus fuck Emmett, a simple hi how are you would have sufficed," I groaned, "But manners, tact and diplomacy were never your strong suits were they?" Edward took my hand and I knew he was worried for me. I gave his hand a gentle squeeze. This was Emmett! I knew the retard like the back of my hand. "Fuck I have to say though I've missed your ugly mug you big gorilla." I aimed a gentle kick at Emmett's shin and stepped back into Edward's arms.
Emmett's booming laughter shattered the silence, "I missed you too Bells. So much. Don't you ever run away from me again! You hear me Missy?"
Jasper came up behind Emmett; he gave Edward a quick smile before turning his attention on me, "Hey Bells. It's good to see you again... and with Edward no less."
I willingly stepped out of Edward's arms and into Jasper's. As much as I loved Emmett for all his crazy ass energy, I loved Jasper's sense of calm just as much. He was, in a way, the eye of the storm that were his brothers. The tiny piece of serenity amongst the chaos.
I smiled as his arms closed around me and a sense of calm began to steal through me. I was amazed that even after not seeing him for a year how I instantly relaxed in his presence.
"Hey Jazz it's good to see you again to, real good. You're looking good, healthy and happy. Has Life been kind to you?"
"Life is always good to me Bells. Always. So," He said with a smile before turning his attention to Edward and asking whether Carlisle and Esme had arrived yet.
Edward, Jasper and Emmett joked around easily with each other and I had to admit it was nice to see their relationships remained intact. I wasn't sure how my sisters were going to be with Edward. Alice, like Renee, was more likely to forgive and forget whereas Rosalie probably not so much with the forgiving or forgetting.
Alice was her usual upbeat self, she didn't seem get offended when Edward started teasing her, she just retaliated like she always did; she actually seemed more offended by the way he was dressed; she berated him about his horrific dress sense.
Rosalie stepped forward and completely ignored Edward; she cast her steely eyes on me, "are you sure about this Bella? It seems like a really stupid move to me." She said without as much as a hello.
I sighed in exasperation, "I wouldn't be here if I wasn't Rose and please use your manners and say hi to your brother in law." I said quietly.
Rose cast her eyes on Edward with a look of distain, "Brother in law? Technically I suppose. How are you Edward? How was that fall from grace?" She asked sarcastically.
A low growl slid from my throat. I was about to tell my sister to go fuck herself when Edward made some quip about how she'd know what it was like being at the bottom.
I giggled at Edward's comment but step forward and gave my older sister a hug, "It's good to see you Rosie... Don't give Edward a hard time ok? We've been through enough bullshit without our family coming down on us like a ton of bricks." I kissed her cheek and let her go so I could give my younger sister a hug, "I've missed you manic pixie."
I looked over her shoulder and saw Aro making his way up the driveway. A slow smile spread over my face; now all of my family was here. Aro was Edward and my biggest supporter, I felt better knowing he was here, I knew if it turned into a fight he would side with us.
Renee's voice suddenly sounded from the doorway, "Dinners ready you lot...Oh hi Aro," she said cheerfully, "you're just in time for dinner. Are...are those your famous cookies you have there?" She asked as she eyed the plate of brownies he was carrying.
"Ah Renee. You get more beautiful each time I see you. Your daughters are truly blessed to be carrying your genes." Renee giggled and blushed as Aro came and handed her the brownies "Alas, these are not the same brownies as I have made before. I merely wanted to make the little ones something sweet for pudding, though if you are interested, I DO have some of my 'special batch' back up at my place." He winked at her "maybe a little later though?"
I cast a steely look at Renee; she could just keep away from Aro's special brownies! The last thing I needed was for her to get wasted and start trying to hook up with my husband or Aro or both!
...We had just finished what proved to me be a very awkward dinner. It was saved from being possibly the most hideous family dinner only by the presence of Aro who refused to let the topic of conversation be Edward and I.
I thought we were home free when Charlie suddenly cleared his throat and stood up. I didn't miss the passing glance he gave to Esme or the nod she gave him in return.
My stomach dropped when he looked down at Edward and I.
"Look you two there's no easy way to say this so I'm just going to come right out and say it. I know you think its fine for you to just put a band aid over your problems in the hope of fixing them, but I have to tell you it's not going to work. What you two have failed to grasp is that you are the parents of four beautiful children, our grandchildren, and every decision you two make has an impact on them. Now as far as I'm concerned and I'm not the only one in this room who is concerned, the selfish actions of both of you have caused your children not only unnecessary hurt but you only serve to confuse them when you repeatedly make the decision to walk away from your marriage and your commitments. A parent puts the needs and welfare of their children above all else. And the actions of you two in the past year has shown me that you don't put the wellbeing of your children before yourselves. Now I know Apple and Louis weren't planned and stuff was messy back then. But you consciously chose to have more children and then you let them down." He said sternly.
"Now I want to know what happens to my grandchildren the next time you two decide to act selfishly and put yourselves first? You're relationship has always been complicated, messy and in my opinion destructive. I'm actually not prepared to sit back and let you hurt those kids again. So I'm giving you an ultimatum of my own, and Esme backs me up on this. I will file for custody of your children if I think your actions will harm them further."
My eyes widened in fear, was my dad serious? Would he really take my children away from me? I would never allow that to happen! I was about to defend both Edward and myself when Esme stood up, she gave Edward a regretful glance.
"Edward. Darling." She simpered, "It's not a healthy relationship. For any of you. I don't want to see you or my grandchildren hurt again. Please understand." She pleaded not taking her eyes from her youngest son.
Carlisle dropped the fork; it clattered noisily on his plate, he looked completely horrified. Everyone else just sat in stunned silence.
I stared at Charlie and Esme with my mouth gaping open. I expected this kind of treachery from Esme but not my Dad. The room was deathly silent and I dragged my horrified gaze from Charlie and Esme and looked around the table, everyone but Aro, who was visibly shaking with rage as he stared at Esme and Charlie, was still as statues their bodies frozen in the pose they had been in when Charlie started his speech.
My gaze finally drifted to Edward's, under the seething anger blazing in his eyes I could see the pain, the hurt, Esme and Charlie's words had inflicted on him. White hot fury gushed through my veins; I could not believe Esme could be so cruel. She claimed to love Edward but she was completely deluded if she thought her actions equated to love.
I leapt up from the table and cast my father and Esme with a death glare, holding back none of the disgust I felt for them. I was so angry I could happily see the two of them reduced to a pile of smouldering ashes.
"While I respect your right to your opinion," I hissed sarcastically, "I have to say that I really don't give a flying fuck what you two think! Edward and I are adults we don't have to answer to any of you. We know we made mistakes and we know we've hurt our children, but your actions are hurting us, your children." I fumed
"None of your relationships are perfect, granted they aren't as messed up as ours, but then none of you have had to live through the fucking horrors we have. Horrors that weren't our fault! Admittedly we didn't handle the situation with Tanya very well, but Edward and I have always done what we thought was best for each other. Even though we were wrong the good intention was there. And it's the same with our children. I did what I thought was best for them and I stand by that and I'm certainly not going to apologize to you for it."
I refused to let Esme pile the blame on me anymore. I took a shuddering breath, "As for taking custody of our children it will be over MY FUCKING DEAD BODY...I will fight you till the fucking day I die for my kids so don't you dare threaten me dad! And the way I feel about you and Esme right now I could quite happily pack up my husband and children and disappear off the face earth! And let me issue a warning of my own, if anyone makes another negative fucking comment about me or Edward you're all going to wake up to find us gone. AND I WILL MAKE SURE WE ARE NEVER FOUND!"
I glared menacingly round the table daring anyone to fucking 'try me' before I threw myself back into my chair.
As soon as I had taken my seat Edward stood up, he stared stonily at Esme as he launched into an invective of his own.
He turned and took my hand in his gently pulling me to my feet before grazing my knuckles with his lips, "...It doesn't matter Bella. I don't care what they say. I KNOW this is right. I know our family is right. I love you. Always."
Edward kissed me gently and touched his forehead against mine.
I turned away from Edward at the sound of Aro's cold voice. I had never heard him use such a venomous tone toward anybody, not ever.
"Well personally, and I think from the look on both Carlisle and Renee's face's that they would agree with me, it's disgusting the way you two" Aro said standing up and pointing to Charlie and Esme "Treat your children. Flower Child is right. That is your daughter and your son right there. They have been through hell. I've seen it, much better and clearer than either of you!" his eyes were blazing with fury as he stared at our parents "They have been through hell and they are FINALLY finding their happiness again. What parent would want to rip that away from their child?"
Esme went to open her mouth but Aro held up a hand. "Spare me. This isn't about Apple and Louis or Matisse and Noah, they have a mother and a father who love them AND each other. A family deserves to be nurtured and protected, not torn down like you are trying. Ashamed! I'm ashamed of you both!" He spat.
"Aro's right Esme. You should be ashamed of the way you are acting and you to Charlie. You're both hypocrites and your both acting despicably." Carlisle said suddenly, "I support my children one hundred percent. Life is too short for bitterness and recriminations Esme. I know that better than anyone. I don't want to hurt you love but I'm not going to watch you do to your son what your accusing your daughter in law of doing to him. I will hire a whole army of lawyers to help stop my children from going through anymore hell at anybodies hands."
Esme couldn't hide her shock, resentment or fury she felt that Carlisle was once again siding against her; it blazed in her eyes and twisted her mouth into a fierce scowl. "I... Carlisle," She stuttered before she turned away from him to look pleadingly at Edward. Nothing in the look she gave him softened his stony look and she sighed in defeat, "Fine. But I swear to you... ALL of you, that I won't allow my family to be ripped apart by that woman anymore! The MINUTE I see my son in danger again or my grandchildren..." She cast me a venomous look, "Then I won't hesitate, Isabella. I will do EVERYTHING in my power to see you out of their lives. At any cost."
She took her seat and snatched her hand out of Carlisle's when he tried to hold it.
Anger flared inside me at Esme's threat. I stood up abruptly from the table once more and cast my narrowed eyes on her, "You listen to me Esme and you listen good and you to Charlie. If either of you ever try to interfere in my life or the lives of my children I swear that I will disappear with my family and neither of you will ever see any of us again." I reiterated my earlier sentiments, "You may think I'm not worthy of Edward but you're wrong! I am more than worthy of him. And you may think I'm an unfit mother Esme but I'm fucking not! And no fucking court in the country would take my kids away from me and give them to YOU! So your fucking threats don't scare me but you should know that I'll have no qualms on making good on mine. I refuse to take the blame here Esme, like I told you before I'm not responsible for what your husband and son have done to you and I will never shoulder that burden..."
She looked like she was about to argue when Renee suddenly got to her feet. She cast a disgusted look at Esme, "Now that's enough both of you. Esme I really love you, but don't you ever threaten my daughter again because it won't end nicely for you!"
She warned her severely before casting her furious glare on her husband, "And Charlie, what the fuck do you think you're doing? I would never have believed you'd threaten your own daughter like that. You should be ashamed of yourself! I would never let you take our grandkids from their parents and I should kick your ass for even bloody suggesting it, and I fucking will kick your if you ever say it again. Now everybody's had a fucking say in my baby girls life now you can all just leave her and Edward alone and let them make their own way..."
Renee glared around the table, while I looked at her in stunned disbelief. I just couldn't believe my mum just threatened Edward's mum. I wondered for one wild second who would come off better if it turned into a physical fight. I shut down the intriguing thought.
"Now for the sake of our grandchildren we are going to put all this shit behind us and start acting like a proper loving family. Do I make myself clear? Charlie, Esme?" Renee asked sternly. She reminded me of a school teacher reprimanding naughty children. If the situation hadn't have been so dire I would have laughed at my mum.
Charlie sighed in exasperation he recognized the battle was lost and he was far from happy. He cast a stern eye on Edward, "Ok Edward I'm prepared to bite my tongue and give you a chance to prove yourself. But if she sheds even one tear over you ever again I'm going to kick your fucking ass. "
Edward's eyes narrowed as he looked at Charlie, "With all due respect Charlie, I have nothing to prove to you. The only people whose expectations I have any desire of meeting are my wife and children's. And hear me when I say this..." He looked at Esme as well "If either of you EVER come into our home again and treat us with such disrespect... You will never be welcome again."
I nodded my head in agreement; I had no qualms about cutting anyone of them out of my life if they were going to oppose us.
The rest of the evening was far from pleasant though nobody made any other disparaging remarks.
I sighed in relief when Aro suggested it might be time to call it a night and I took my first real breath when Edward shut the door behind our family.
"See. Told you it would be fine." Edward chuckled.
"Jesus if that's your idea of fine I shudder to think what you'd call horrific...I'm just glad it's over. All I care about is you and our kids. As long as we're happy that's all that counts."
He pulled me into his embrace and brushed his lips across mine, "I'm always happy when I'm with you..."
If it had been anybody else's other than Aro's birthday I would have refused to leave our children with our parents but I wanted to celebrate with my friend. Edward and I, well mostly me Edward hadn't been very enthusiastic when I suggested it, had decided to throw him a very laid back alcohol free party for the man we considered our father.
I took a seat on the steps to Aro's porch and directed Edward which trees to hang the rows of Chinese lanterns and where I thought the best place for the bonfire was.
He looked over at me with a sardonic smile when I suggested that he move the fire pit a fraction to the left. I burst into a fit of laughter it felt good to be teasing Edward.
"Be thankful it's not Alice doing the directing she'd have you positioning it to the alignment to the constellation of Aquarius." I teased.
He looked like he was going to say something but then he just nodded his head in agreement. He knew I was right...
...I was feeling more and more relaxed as the night went on. It was partly to do with Aro's most excellent weed and the company of those I loved the most. I thought back on all those crazy nights I had spent with the people spread out in the yard in front of me.
They were Dangerous and irresponsible but fun times.
I compared it to the laid back scene playing out in front of me and I smiled, I definitely enjoyed this kind of party with my friends much more.
Edward and I were practically joined at the hip; I kept a part of my body in contact with his at all times. We settled in by the bonfire, I rested my head on his shoulder as he plucked the strings on Aro's acoustic guitar and kissed him passionately when he began playing patience.
I kept my eyes locked on his and he serenaded me.
Shed a tear 'cause I'm missin' you
I'm still alright to smile
Girl, I think bout you every day now
Was a time when I wasn't sure
But you set my mind at ease
There is no doubt you're in my heart now
Said woman take it slow, and it'll work itself out fine
All we need is just a little patience
Said sugar take it slow and we'll come together fine
All we need is just a little patience
(patience)
Mmmm, yeah
We were interrupted a minute later by Aro who grooved over and requested Edward play 'squeeze Box' before making a bee line for Rosalie, who looked very happy to see him. He dropped to his knees before her and she practically beamed down at him before she looked over at me and smiled evilly.
I had no time to dwell on why the fuck my sister was giving me evil smirks, Edward had finished his song and was now kissing me in a way that made me forget everything around me, hell I even forgot my name.
By the time Edward had relinquished my mouth Rosalie and Aro had disappeared into the darkness...
Aro & Rosalie's POV's...Starting with Aro
I walked over to Edward who was strumming lightly on the guitar while Flower Child rested her head on his shoulder. "Mama's got a Squeeze box" I said with a grin that he returned while shaking his head.
His fingers began plucking at the strings and I closed my eyes as I began to sway to the music moving around the fire. I could feel the long end of my bandana swirling out behind me as I began to sing the lyrics.
"Mama's got a squeeze box
She wears on her chest
And when Daddy comes home
He never gets no rest"
I grooved over to Lucy Diamond and dropped to my knees in front of her
"Open those luscious lips for me Lucy" I said as I pulled a rose coloured vial from my pocket and held it up. It was a little concoction of my own, a basic opium derivative, but it was the perfect drug for dancing...
"Hey Woodstock, what ya got there? Is that a love potion for me?" I asked smirking down at the groovy old hippy...
"Well, I was just hoping for a dance, but you know me, I'll take what I can get." I said waggling my eyebrows suggestively. I could hear Edward in the background singing the next verse, so I crooned lowly as I held the bottle up and stared into Lucy's beautiful big eyes.
"Cause she's playing all night
And the music's all right
Mama's got a squeeze box
Daddy never sleeps at night" ...
I took the vile from Woodstock and downed it in one, I trusted the old hippy dude to look after me; I had really been looking forward to seeing him again and had been excited since Bella had invited us up for his birthday. I had planned on buying him something nice but Bella had said definitely no presents.
It hadn't felt right not to get him anything so I asked Emmett what he thought I should give him. He had looked at me with an evil smirk, and said 'well I know what I'd want from you if I was him Lucy Diamond.'
I had protested telling Emmett that it was wrong but in his typical style he had convinced me it was the ultimate present for Aro and that he was all cool with it if I was game enough to do it.
Of course I was game to do it, as Emmett well knew.
I looked down at Woodstock who was singing up at me and gave him my most dazzling smile as I took a step toward him. His face was millimetres from my stomach, I swayed seductively in front of him, "Does Daddy wanna play with my squeeze box tonight?" I purred...
I wasn't sure if Lucy was just playing or not, but I had decided that even if she was I was going to have a little fun of my own. I moved down slightly and pressed my face against the apex between her legs.
Outwardly, it looked very innocent, well innocent as far as I was concerned anyway, but when I blew through the thin cotton of her shorts and nuzzled against her, I felt her body break into shivers. I grinned to myself that I still had it, before dragging myself up her body and taking her hands in mine and pulling her against me.
"She goes, squeeze me, come on and squeeze me
Come on and tease me like you do
I'm so in love with you
Mama's got a squeeze box
Daddy never sleeps at night"
I leaned forward like I was going to whisper in her ear, but instead danced my tongue lightly along the crease behind it. A Romanian gypsy prostitute I had travelled with for a while in my younger days had taught me a few tricks.
It was all in the tongue, quite literally. Light gentle movements, coupled sharp flicks in that area would drive any woman wild she had told me, and that little piece of information had never let me down. I felt Lucy's legs begin to buckle a little so I spun her away from me with a grin, knowing that the sudden movement, coupled with the drugs and my own little kiss would send her head spinning just as fast.
When I pulled her back into me I leaned close to her ear "Daddy can handle your squeezebox little mama, but the question is can it handle daddy?" ...
"I see your tongue is as talented as your breath Woodstock, wanna take me somewhere and teach me something new?" I looked over Aro's shoulder and saw Emmett was giving me the thumbs up.
He had obviously been watching our encounter and I wondered if anyone else had.
When I looked around us and nobody but Bella and Edward seemed to be taking any notice, I flashed Bella a wicked grin and she laughed and gave me a heads up.
I slipped my hand into my pocket and pulled out a condom, I knew the old guy had probably never used one before but if he wanted to make sweet music with me then he'd have to get used to one fast. I pressed it into Aro's hand with a smile...
I looked down with a frown at the little foil packet in my hand before shrugging and looking up at Lucy "Well, maybe you'll be teaching me a thing or two as well Lucy, cause Daddy has no idea how to use one of these things..."...
"Well Woodstock your about to get your first lesson in how to practice safe sex twenty first century style." I gave him a wink and ground myself up against him...
I felt the familiar stirring in my pants and I grinned over my shoulder at a very distressed looking Edward. He was clearly asking me what the hell I thought I was doing, so I made a little shagging motion with my pelvis into Lucy.
He gagged a little and his eyes looked like they were about to bug out of his head as he looked to his brother and then back at me quickly.
I just smiled and shrugged, leaning down to whisper to Lucy, "Well then, I hope you know I'm not a very good student. I might require some firm reprimanding." I said grinding my woody into her "But we better take off quick, my young lad over there is on to us." I said keeping my eyes on a very worried looking Edward...
I looked over at Edward who was no longer watching us but kissing Bella, I looked back at Aro with a smirk, "we can make our getaway now while his attention is otherwise occupied." I gave Aro a dazzling smile and reached for his hand...
I grabbed Lucy's hand in mine and pulled her along with me into the darkness "Come on Lucy, let's take the back way. You still have a reputation to maintain..." I said with a chuckle "Though by the time I'm finished they'll know what you've been doing. Either that, or they will think you have developed a passion for the Woodstock festival!" ...
A small giggle fell from my lips as I followed Woodstock's lead. If he hadn't have given me the opium I would be having second thoughts about doing this.
But I was feeling really good; comfortably numb.
We snuck through the back door and he took me into his room closing the door quietly behind us...
I lit a few candles around the room before going to my old record player and pulling out an old favourite and putting it on. I smiled as the scratch of the needle hit the vinyl.
You just didn't get that sound these days, not with all the CDs and mp3's and assorted other new fangled crap they had out.
When I turned I found Lucy seductively draped across my bed. I walked towards her, pulling my shirt off over my head as I came forward. I knew I was no young buck, but a lifetime of organic produce had left behind traces of the man that I had once been.
I began to crawl from the end of the bed up towards Lucy, pausing at her ankles "You sure about this little Lucy?" ...
The giggle that burst from my lips was to hide my mild nervousness. I wasn't nervous per say. It was more than I had never had sex with senior citizen before.
I wasn't sure if he would be up to the task.
Age was but a number I reminded myself.
As long as I didn't go to wild and Aro worshipped me I was all good.
I smiled at him looking him dead in the eye, "Hell yeah Woodstock I want you to rock my world." ...
I began kissing her ankles, sucking at the soft flesh on the soles of her feet and basically treasuring every inch of the gift she was offering me.
It had been so long since I had had a woman in bed and even longer since I had had a fox like my little Lucy. I focused on all the sensitive points, never staying in one place for too long and causing overstimulation.
The opium in her system would have her floating and I intended on keeping her on that path. I began one long, slow sensuous lick from the tip of her toe all the way up her leg to the top of her thigh, before kissing my way across the top of her shorts and back down the other leg.
I repeated this pattern a few times until I could see her chest rising and falling rapidly. Gentle moans sprang forth from her lips and I smiled.
"Oh my beautiful Lucy, such luscious lips, created by the very essence of life itself. There will never be another to match your absolute beauty and grace will there my sweet? Such a lucky old fool am I to sample but a taste of your exquisite flesh." I began to slowly undo her shorts and pulled them down gently, throwing them behind me. I looked down at her naked sex and sighed "Oh, but how Venus herself must wept in jealousy when she spied you for the first time." I lamented...
I gasped at his words, this man's words were as smooth as his touch, I felt absolutely no apprehension I knew Woodstock was going to indeed rock my world...
I leaned forward and breathed against her glistening mound, watching in delight as she trembled. In my younger days, I had been quite the machine, the ladies had flocked to me literally in droves and I had satisfied each and every one.
It was nice to know that I would soon be able to count Lucy among their numbers, even at the age I was. I reverently kissed her soft skin, dragging my tongue lightly through the wetness pooled there, while keeping my eyes firmly on hers.
A time when I had service three women simultaneously in this fashion flashed before my eyes and I smirked as I began dancing my tongue between her sex in a delightful rhythm to the music.
"And oh but Venus, did your honey ever taste so sweet? Indeed Lucy, you put the very goddess of womanhood to shame." I crooned against her...
"Mmm...Woodstock that tongue of yours is definitely talented." I raised my hips a little, I wanted more friction...
I chuckled at her impatience "All in good time, my sweet Lucy. You don't pluck the fruit from the vine until you have let it ripen, and a fruit as sweet as yours, it must be savoured." I drilled my tongue deep inside her, curling it and eliciting a small shriek of pleasure from my sweet Lucy.
Ah, but I did feel so young and alive at that very moment. I kept my tongue firmly inside her, surprised that my old body could still be counted on to pleasure one such as the nymph beneath me.
When I felt her taste the apex of her passion, a scream burst forth from her plump, sweet lips and I felt her nectar fill my mouth.
I hummed in my own pleasure and appreciation as I sucked it forth from her, it had been too long since I had tasted such an elixir...
The scream that tore from my lips was of its own vocation. That man had an extreme fucking gift.
My fingers gripped the sheets as my back arched off the bed, "Fuck...shit Woodstock, you got me seeing stars baby." I sucked in a few deep lungfuls of air and blinked rapidly, indeed trying to clear the tiny dots of colour raining in front of my eyes...
I sat up on my knees between her legs and lightly stroked her thighs "Only stars my sweet Lucy? Then I apologise, I shall have to try harder." I said with a grin. I pulled out of my pocket the little foil wrapper which contained the condom. Bloody awful things I had been told, but then again, there were a lot more diseases around than there had been in my day. "Now it's your turn to teach this old dog a new trick."...
My eyes never left his as I tore open his fly and yanked his jeans and boxers down over his hips.
I took the small foil from Aro and pulled it open with a smirk, I let my fingers curl around his length and pumped it slowly, giving it an almost aggressive squeeze before sliding the latex down, being careful not to tear it with my nail. He made to move but I placed my hand on his chest raking my nails across his skin before pushing him backwards,
"Mmm...I like to ride my stallions Woodstock," I purred as I straddled his stomach, I leaned forward and gave him one slow burning kiss before allowing him to slide into my warmth.
I rocked against him gently trying to be mindful that he wasn't as young or agile as Emmett. I soon worked up my pace, keeping my eyes firmly on his, "Are you going to make me see the moon the sun and the planets this time Woodstock?...Mmm feels good..." ...
It didn't surprise me that Lucy liked to take the lead and as she moved herself over me, I raised my hips and angled them slightly forward, surprising myself that I remembered that spot exactly right.
Lucy gasped as I massaged the tender area inside her "Can you see them Lucy? They all have names, but no one will remember them, only yours..." I could feel the lightness in my head that I had not felt for so long, the stirring in my stomach, the tell tale flutter and what was most wonderful was I could tell she was feeling the same things. "Do you hear them Lucy? The diamonds in the sky, they all sing for you. Their songs are in your honour and yours alone..." I panted, watching her breasts bouncing up and down hypnotically. I reached out to touch them, palming them gently...
"Of course they sing for me, I'm the brightest most beautiful of them all, they want to be me." I panted as I ground against him I could feel my orgasm building and I upped the tempo of my movements, "Tell me how jealous of me they are." I commanded; it was his words that were going to push me over the edge...
I grinned at her vanity. It was appealing to me in a strange kind of way "Oh my sweet Lucy they are too plain to aspire to be like you, no, you are the envy of the goddesses themselves... They dream to have your beauty, your fire, but they never shall. You are unique and deserved to be worshipped." ...
"I do deserve to be worshipped Woodstock, will you forever fall at my feet?" I pushed down harder the added friction was enough to bring my climax crashing down and I gasped loudly, "So...good...Woodstock" I panted as waves of pleasure rocked through me....
I looked up into the eyes of the beautiful Lucy Diamond "I am already there, waiting in absolute supplication..." I said as I let myself go and grunted in ecstasy.
"Well Lucy Diamond, I have to say that was the best birthday present I think anyone has ever given me." I stretched and smiled in satisfaction "You certainly are one groovy little fox aren't you?" I said reaching over and tweaking her nipple playfully before massage her breast with my palm.
I lit us a joint taking a couple of deep drags before passing it to Lucy, she gave me one of her dazzling smiles and I felt myself stirring again...
"And you are just a wealth of talent aren't you Woodstock, you really need to spread that gift of yours around and thanks for the love potion."...
I chuckled; it was good to know that I still had it where the ladies were concerned. I had worried that it was a talent that if unused it would disappear over time. I was relieved to learn otherwise "So my lovely Lucy, do you think I could cash in on my birthday gift one more time?" I wiggled my eyebrows and gave her a grin...
"Hell yeah Woodstock especially if you're gonna make me see the cosmos again."...
I managed to get the awful little rubber thing on before crawling on top of Lucy Diamond and sliding into her warmth for the second time. I heard her suck in a breath as I began to move rhythmically, building up to a gentle crescendo. "Do you see the cosmos yet Lucy? They are waiting for you to greet them" I crooned. I had learned long ago that most women liked the pillow talk, the more sincere the better which was good for me.
Sincere was all I could do...
"They will bow before me Woodstock, the stars the moon the sun. Even God himself."...
I grunted as I felt myself about to let go for the second time "None will worship you as much as I, Lucy. I am at your mercy..."
At my words I felt her spasm around me and I couldn't help my grin. I didn't often use profanity, I felt there was no need for it, but now was one of the few occasions where I felt it was appropriate "Oh my Fucking God!" I groaned as I let myself go again...
I leaned forward and kissed him passionately, "Happy Birthday Woodstock." he slid out of me with a groan and lay next to me again, his eyes closed a wide smile playing on his lips.
I kissed him again before I slid out of bed and grabbed my clothes. I was fairly sure I followed Bella's gift request perfectly. Nothing store brought, something unique and personal. I smiled at Woodstock, I was pleased with myself.
I waited for him to get dressed then grabbed his hand. I led us back the way we came and we slipped out of the darkness and joined Emmett, Edward and Bella on the deck. I kissed Aro before throwing myself into Emmett's waiting arms.
Aro took a seat next to Edward.
"So did you rock his world baby?" Emmett asked making sure he was clearly heard by everyone.
"I don't know baby you'll have to ask him that. But he surely did rock my world." I turned to blow a kiss to Aro, before turning back to Emmett, "He does this thing with his tongue, and oh my god, honestly Emmett! Anyway I'll teach you later." I turned when I heard Edward gasp, "What's the matter Edward?"
Bella POV...
Edward was staring at Rose in horror and I was staring at him and trying not to laugh.
Surely Rose was just teasing Edward?
At least I hoped she was.
But she and Aro had been gone for a while. I looked over at Aro who was grinning widely and I let out a small gasp. One look at his face and my suspicions were confirmed.
Rosalie had had sex with him.
I swallowed the bile that rose in my throat; I was completely repulsed by my sister.
The woman had no shame.
And how the hell was Emmett was going to react?
If he did throw a tantrum there was no way I would let him take it out on Aro.
Edward leaned over and asked Aro if he did in fact do it.
Aro nodded in assent and Edward looked like he was going to be sick or pass out, or both. He was looking at Rose in stunned disbelief.
He suddenly turned to Emmett, "And you... Emmett?" asking his brother if he was alright what had just gone down between his girlfriend and the horny old hippy.
Rosalie didn't give Emmett time to answer.
She fixed her eyes Edward and gave him a wicked smile, "Oh chill out Edward, it was Emmett's idea! When I was stuck for a gift, you know for his birthday. And let me warn you sweetie the man has talent! I'd keep him away from that wife of yours or you might just be out of a job." She grinned at him like the cat that'd got the cream.
Edward's arm tightened around me, I was sure it was an unconscious gesture, but I liked it all the same. It was a little sign of his possessiveness over me. And although it used to drive me insane this time it felt nice. It was the reaction that connected me a little to the old Edward.
The Edward I knew better than I knew myself.
Edward's eyes widened and he looked mortified that his brother could condone his girlfriend fucking another guy and an old guy at that.
I couldn't help but burst out laughing when Edward demanded to know if Emmett had being starved of oxygen at birth or whether the doctor actually dropped him on his head when he was born.
Emmett laughed rambunctiously, "It's all good Eddie. Aro can die a happy man now. And Rosie obviously had a good time, fucking look at her; you can see the sparkle in her eye. Well through the haze you can. And besides she would have used condoms, so it's all sweet. And it's the last chance Rosy had to sow her wild oats; I'm sticking a ring on it tomorrow!"
"A ring on what? Your cock," He asked. I burst into laughter but Emmett rolled his eyes.
"On Rosalie's finger you fucktard. Me and Rosy are getting married!" He announced to the party at large.
The yard erupted into a chorus of whoops and cheers and "congratulations,". Everybody seemed ecstatic at Emmett's declaration, everyone but Edward that was. He was obviously having a seriously hard time accepting the crazy situation; he just kept shaking his head.
Aro turned to me and laughed, "They are all crazy aren't they?"
"Yeah they are, but I love them anyway." I leaned over and hugged Emmett, "I'm glad you're marrying my sister, but you will never let her do anything like that again." I said sternly.
Edward snorted, "You are all fucking crazy. I thought I had issues..." he turned to Aro, "Well, I got you a new violin. It's a birthday slash thank you gift. So you don't get to fuck me or my wife sorry." He said with a laugh.
I patted Edward's hand soothingly, "Edward, sweetie it's ok, I'm just really happy she was gentle enough not to kill him...he's my friend and I would have missed him had she given him a heart attack."
Emmett, Rose and Aro burst out laughing, I joined them I couldn't help it. As repulsed as I was by the thought of it Edward's reaction was priceless, he was struggling to fathom it.
Edward stood up abruptly and took my hand, pulling me to my feet, "Come on baby let's go home, before whatever they have spreads."
I rolled my eyes and leaned over and kissed Aro's cheek, "happy birthday, I'm sure it will be one to remember," I chortled and kissed his cheek again before turning to hug Rosalie, "congratulations on getting engaged sis. Oh and by the way I'm not coming to your engagement party if there is any chance, any chance at all, that this might happen again!"
Rosalie cackled an evil laugh, "Well I can't promise you Bells!" She said evilly and I shuddered.
"I'm out of here, Edward's right sis; you do have issues!" I kissed her cheek and took Edward's hand waving to the others as we passed them.
I was still laughing about Rose and Aro as we walked down the torch lit driveway.
"God I can't believe Rose, the woman has no shame, honestly, sometimes I can't believe we're related." I shuddered repulsed by the thought of Aro and Rose; it was truly disgusting and yet extremely funny all at the same time.
"I know. Jesus, what the hell is wrong with my brother? He practically pimped her out!" I shivered a little at his assessment of Emmett, Edward must have noticed because he shrugged out of his coat and wrapped it around me, "There's No way in hell I could do that. I couldn't share you with anyone!"
I nodded in agreement, "Hmm... your brother certainly is extremely open minded. Honestly has he always had that morality chip missing? I know it was gone when I worked for him, I used to ask him if he had one at all." I laughed at the memory of the amount of times I had indeed asked Emmett that when I worked for him, I was sure it was at least a thousand times a week.
He laughed lightly, "Maybe someone really did drop him. It would explain a lot, the morality issue, the sheer amount of fucking food the man can eat... Still doesn't explain Rose though does it?" He said as we reached the front door.
"Yeah baby it does, she was definitely born without a morality chip, I could tell you stories about that girl that would make the hair on the back of your neck stand on end, but I won't...All I'll say is she has always given Renee a run for her money in the inappropriate behaviour stakes, it's almost a competition between the two."
He held the door open for me, ushering me in, "Well Mrs Cullen, I am eternally grateful that you didn't inherit any of it. I'd be gray by now!"
"Honestly baby you're more than enough for me," I said with a grin.
Edward swept me into his arms and crushed his mouth to mine.
Desire crashed over me, I wanted him right here, right now. I pulled him to the floor and crawled on top of him.
His fingers wound through my hair and he pulled my face to his.
"Edward," I groaned as he pulled me deeper into a kiss that was full of the promise a Pandora's box of pleasure...
...I was being lulled back into consciousness by Edward's soft voice, although it contained none of its former velvety nuance, it was still my favourite sound in the world.
My eyes drifted open and Edward's face loomed in my vision, slightly blurred but still beautiful through the film of sleep. I blinked rapidly desperate to clear the haze and bring Edward's angel face into sharper focus; he was so stunning, even with the sallow tinge to his skin. His eyes, still dull compared to how they used to be, lit up as he smiled down at me. I sighed in contentment.
The more awake I felt the more I felt the stiffness in my muscles, Edward and I had spent most of the night on the hard wooden floor, not that it felt hard at the time. I stretched my arms over my head feeling more of the soreness in my muscles; I kept my face smooth of any signs that would give Edward the wrong idea.
If he thought he'd hurt me even in the tiniest way...Well I didn't want to think about that.
The sheet slipped and Edward's eyes darkened perceptibly as they roamed over my naked body, I recognized the look of desire; it ignited my own. I looked up Edward questioningly, wondering who could possibly be on the phone since practically everybody we had anything to do with was here on Waiheke.
"Jake," Edward mouthed and my face split into a wide grin. I hadn't had a chance to talk to Jacob since Edward and I had left Nepal.
"You're welcome; just let me know the time and place and I'll be there." Edward said as he reached out to stroke my cheek. My eyelids drifted closed with a happy sigh as Edward's magic pulsed through my body and brought me to life.
"Um...Yeah she just woke up. Do you want to tell her the good news or should I?" Edward asked and I vaguely wondered what Jakes good news was. Edward's fingers trailed lightly down my neck and across my collar bone, it was hard to concentrate on anything other than how my skin tingled under his touch and how the muscles in the pit of my stomach tightened. "Ok then. Well I'll see you next Friday and congratulations again."
My eyes snapped open and I looked up at Edward questioningly, why was Edward congratulating him and was Job was coming home? Edward shook his head and passed me the phone; the second his hands were free he was touching me. I covered the mouthpiece of the phone so Jacob would not hear the low moan sliding from my lips; Edward was tugging my nipple between his lips.
I took a shuddering breath and tried to somewhat compose myself before I put the phone to my ear. "Hey Jake," I said a little breathlessly.
"Hi Bells I'm sorry to wake you, I forget the time difference." He apologized. So he was still in Nepal.
"It's ok Jake you can wake me up anytime," I suppressed another moan, Edward was now lavishing attention on my other breast and his hand was sliding lightly over my stomach. "So what's the news? Why was Edward congratulating you and telling you he'd see you Friday? Are we coming to visit you?"
Edward continued to tease my nipple although it was as hard as the hope diamond, his hand moved lower coming to rest in between my thighs. I covered the phone unable to stop the breathless moan from spilling out as Edward's warm fingers slid inside me; my shiver of pleasure was quickly followed by his own.
Although Edward was busy lavishing attention on my body I was aware that his eyes were on my face.
"No you're not coming to Nepal I'm coming home, well Leah and I are. We're getting married next weekend! Leah's having a baby. I'm going to be a Dad, Bella!" He practically shouted into the phone, his voice exploding with his overflowing bliss.
My smile faltered for a fraction of a second, but I was sure Edward had seen. I felt like I had been sucker punched, my mind plunging into a vortex of confused and conflicting thoughts.
"That...That's great news Jacob. I'm so very happy for you and Leah." Although I stuttered the words came out sounding as sincere as I meant them to be.
I was happy for Jacob, he was my best friend and I wanted the very best for him and there was no denying Leah was the very best. But Jacob was more than my best friend, he had been the person who had sheltered me through the darkest time of my life. Jacob had been my safe haven, the one constant thing in my life. I knew I could always count on Jacob to be there for me.
Would that change now? Now that Jake had his own wife and child would he still have time for me and my children? I knew that even thinking that was selfish and both cruel to Jake and Edward, I didn't wish to be selfish or cruel but I could not stop the fear that bubbled molten hot in the pit of my stomach. I hated being so full of insecurity and doubt but I couldn't help it, my life had been full of insecurity and doubt for so long, although it was finally starting to find some sort of consistency mine and Edward's future was still so up in the air. Jacob was still the one constant; if I lost that would I be able to survive?
Edward was still touching me and still looking at my face, still reading the every minute shift in my expression. I wondered what he was seeing on my face now. When I shot a covert look at him his face and his eyes were devoid of emotion. I wondered what that meant.
"Thanks Bella. Edward has agreed to stand up as my best man," My eyes brimmed with tears, tears that spilt over and ran down my cheeks. Edward and Jacob had come so far over the years, they trusted each other and they truly enjoyed each other's company, their friendship transcended my own friendship with Jacob. There was a genuine comradely and brotherhood between them.
"Bella?" Edward asked alarmed, I shook my head and smiled and he immediately relaxed returning to his ministrations but still keeping his gaze firmly on me.
"I'm so happy you asked him Jacob, you have no idea how much that means to me." I whispered.
"Yeah well Edward's like my brother now. Funny how times have changed huh? Remember the days when he used to call me 'Doogie Howser' and 'Teen dream?'" I burst into laughter and Jacob joined me, it felt like several lifetimes had passed since then.
"You forgot 'Boy Wonder," I giggled and Edward's laughter joined ours, he obviously clicked straight away.
"Oh that's right. Any way Bells I need to go, Leah is throwing up again. Lucky I'm an old hand at looking after pregnant women!" He laughed again and I forced myself to laugh around the lump that had formed in my throat. Jacob had nursed me through several bouts of morning sickness not to mention all the other things he had done for me.
My former happy mood disintegrated as the fear began to claw at my insides once more.
"Kay Jake. I will see you Friday and fresh ginger will help Leah with the nausea."
"Thanks again Bells I will see you Friday." The phone line went dead and I stared at it blankly for a moment trying to get my thoughts into some sort of order before Edward noticed.
Too late! He slid his deft fingers from my core and crawled back up my body, he rolled us onto our sides his eyes intent on my face as he picked up my hand and kissed my fingertips.
"Is everything alright Bella?" He asked softly.
"Yes," I answered far too quickly, "I'm happy for Jacob, if anyone deserves happiness its him, and Leah, she really is a lovely person. She's...perfect for Jake." I could hear the very faint trembling in my voice I wondered if Edward would pick it up.
I dropped my gaze unable to look at Edward lest he see the fear in my eyes. I could imagine how hurt he'd be if he realized how little faith I had in him. Of course he noticed. He squeezed my fingers gently and let go of my hand his finger moved to my chin, tilting my face up so I had to meet his gaze. When I did I found it soft, understanding.
"You won't lose him Bella..." Edward said just as softly. I went to speak; to apologize, to try and explain but he smiled and pressed his fingers to my lips, "There's nothing to explain sweetheart, I can't even begin to tell you how much gratitude I have for Jacob. He took care of you Bella when I didn't." I shook my head trying to protest but he pressed his fingers harder against my lips, "I know you won't lose him because Jacob has sworn to me that you and the kids will always be one of his top priorities. Jacob is the trustee of my will Bella he will always be there to take care of you. I trust Jacob without question. I trust him to look after you if I can't. I trust Jacob with my life, because I trust with you."
I stared at Edward in stunned disbelief; I hadn't realized just how deep the trust ran between Edward and Jacob Edward trusted him without question. I hadn't realized just how strong the bond was between them, Edward truly did think of Jacob as his brother.
"I'm sorry Edward," I said the moment he took his fingers from my lips; "I didn't mean to hurt you."
"I know you didn't and I'm not hurt Bella. As long as you're happy then that's all that matters to me." Edward's finger lightly traced my lips, "Besides that I know that while I'm still breathing you aren't going to need Jacob to rely on. Nobody but me will ever need to look after my family again." He took my face gently in my hands, "I swear to you Bella, I'll never leave you again. I swear I will never give you a reason to have to rely on Jake."
"I know you won't leave me," I whispered.
He held my gaze as he leaned into capture my lips with his own. He kissed me hungrily his hand dropping from my face ghosted over my body before coming to rest between my thighs. I moaned softly into his mouth as his deft fingers slid into me...
EDWARD'S POV...
With a sigh, I picked up the phone and dialled my parent's number. I really didn't want to make the call, from my father I was expecting reprimands and warnings of not repeating my past mistakes and from my mother I was expecting a barrage of negativity regarding Bella.
I wasn't looking forward to either. I picked my cup of green tea off the counter and made my way outside to the sunny deck where I sat down on a chair.
The phone rang three times before my father answered. "Hey Dad. It's Edward." I said a little redundantly. My voice was so decimated these days; it wasn't hard to place it.
"Edward my son, do what do I owe the pleasure?"
"Well... Fuck. Um, ok then." I stammered. I didn't know how to actually come out and say that my beautiful and loving wife had found it within herself to give me ANOTHER chance. A chance I knew I didn't deserve but was still holding onto for dear life anyway.
"It's about me and Bella Dad. We've um... Well, Bella has decided, I mean WE decided, no she decided... Ah shit!" I growled and coughed a little as my vocal chords burned. It was usually like this first thing in the morning. "Bella and I are working things out. She has agreed to give our marriage another go. We are all here, on Waiheke and I... I thought I better call and you know; let you and mum know... So yeah," I finished stupidly and took a gulp of my burning hot tea to cover my embarrassment.
It didn't work; all I did was manage to do was irritate my throat further.
"I'm so very happy to hear that son. To come out the other side of what you two have been through and still have that kind of love for each other is a rare thing. It should be proof to both of you that you were destined to be together..." Even though it had been that way for some time it still shocked me to hear my dad say those kinds of things. It was hard to fathom that he'd done a complete one eighty, after all he'd done to oppose my relationship, it was weird knowing that he finally saw that Bella was my destiny, "...Would you like me to tell Esme or do you want to do it?" He asked quietly.
I laughed raspily, "Are you starting to get off on Mum beating you Dad?" I joked "Are you after another black eye?" I chuckled "No, I had better tell her. Do you want to put her on the phone? If she's around."
"Actually Edward it may be safer if you tell her," He half joked. I laughed at my father but my laughter quickly died as my mother's happy voice came onto the phone.
"Edward my darling boy is everything alright?"
"Hey mum." I said cautiously, but trying to mask my cautiousness with overt happiness. "Well, I've got some good news."
"Good news? Please tell me you're moving back to Wellington where I can look after you?"
I winced. This was not going to go well, "Uh, no Mum, I'm not. I...uh...called to tell you that Bella and I have decided to give our marriage another try. She and the kids are here with me now... back home. On Waiheke..." I trailed off and closed my eyes.
There was a brief silence, but I knew it was only the calm before the storm.
"You...Bella...? EDWARD WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT?" My mother screeched into the phone, "She has done nothing but hurt you. She abandoned you when you needed her most and she lied to everyone she claims to love...I don't understand why you would give her the chance to hurt you like that again? I don't trust her Edward and I think you are making a MISTAKE. I implore you to reconsider. She is poisonous for you Edward."
The anger was evident in my mother's voice, but it only served to ignite my own.
"I love her Mum and I DONT think I'm making a mistake. She didn't ABANDON me, I pushed her away! I gave her no choice but to leave! I'm completely and totally fucking head over heels in love with her and I KNOW I won't ever be really happy unless I'm with her. We've been through hell and back mum, but we've still come out the other end TOGETHER. I'm going to do everything in my power to make my marriage work. I won't lose her again. I won't. I fucking refuse to." I said firmly. "I know you are scared for me, but this IS happening and you don't really have a choice BUT to accept it. Bella and the kids aren't just IN my life, they ARE my life and if you want to be a part of it, then you have to get over this thing with her. I won't put anything above them again Mum. Not booze, not drugs, not any other person. The decision is yours."
I looked out over the calm and still water of the ocean. I hated to be so blunt and brash to my mother. I knew she loved me and she was only scared for what COULD happen, but I wasn't letting MY fear rule my life anymore. I couldn't let her fears rule it either.
"Edward that's not fair. You are blinded by her; you always have been. You forgive her time and time again for hurting you. She kept your children from you and she shacked up with another man while you were fighting for your life. She doesn't deserve you son. Why don't you just gain shared custody of your children and move home? I can help you with them. You can't trust her Edward. She is a liar and deceitful and unworthy of you."
I ran a hand through my hair in frustration before rubbing it over my face vigorously. "Mum, she kept OUR children SAFE from me. I don't even want to fucking imagine the strength of character it takes to do something like that and as for Jake? Well, I'm glad he 'shacked up' with them as you put it. It's the second time he's cared for my family when I couldn't... I owe that man my gratitude and nothing else."
I sighed before continuing "I don't want shared custody, I don't want to move back to Wellington... I want my wife. I want my children. I want my family. It's all I've ever wanted; it's the only thing I'll ever want. I'm not going to keep going around in circles on this Mum. Bella IS my wife and I won't sit here and listen to you run her down. She didn't lie to me, she is not deceitful and you know what? She IS more than worthy of me and I'm worthy of her too. We both deserve to be happy. I don't want to hurt you Mum, I love you and I know you are scared, but this is my decision. I want you to be a part of our lives, I want that more than anything, but that's your choice to make. Just like my future with Bella is mine."
"Well Edward I can see you've made up your mind and I have no choice but to accept it if I want you and my grandchildren in my life. I barely accept it and I am not at all happy about it all. So when can I see you and my grandchildren?"
I exhaled through my nose and rested my head on one hand. She was conceding, but barely. I knew the reunion with Bella would be a tense one.
"You know you are always welcome Mum. You and Dad, just remember you are visiting BELLA's house too. My Mum always told me to respect other's especially in their own homes." I said, tossing what she had told me repeatedly as a child back at her.
"Of course Edward I won't forget my manners. So we'll see you next weekend then?"
"Next weekend. I'm looking forward to it. I do love you mum." I said honestly and she choked up a little at that as she said her goodbyes.
I hung up the phone and placed it carefully on the table next to me with a loud sigh. I picked up my green tea and took a sip, spitting it back into the cup rather unceremoniously. It was cold and it certainly had not fucking improved the flavour.
"And I thought you couldn't actually taste any worse. I stand corrected." I said to the cup as I set it back down and relaxed into my chair, enjoying the way the sun felt on my face. I stripped off my shirt and tossed it to the ground beside me, because the sun just felt so fucking good and I wanted to soak up as much of it as I could.
I looked at Bella in surprise as she materialised on my lap and ran her hands over my shoulders. "I love you Edward," She said and I smiled at her, putting my arms around her waist
"I love you too baby. With all my heart and soul."
"I believe that a little more every day, but none more so than today. " She said and then bit her bottom lip as she looked at me nervously.
She confessed that she had overheard my conversation with my mother and questioned whether I had been fair giving her 'an ultimatum'.
I shrugged "She wasn't happy, but I'm sure she will get over it. I meant what I said to her. She accepts it or she can stay away, we've all had enough complications in our lives." I kissed her lips softly "Nothing is more important to me than you and the kids. Nothing."
She murmured against my lips that she would be offering Charlie the same ultimatum and hugged her to me tightly.
"I don't want to cause problems with you and your dad baby. Though; if I'm honest it will feel pretty fucking good to hear you say that you want to be with me. I don't think I'll ever get tired of that."
"It doesn't matter what Charlie says he won't be able to get me to change my mind...I want you Edward Cullen, I want you forever."
I brushed a piece of hair back from her forehead, my fingers lingering on her cheek. "You've always had me, my beautiful Bella and you always will..."
Bella's hand was vibrating in mine and as she saw the cars begin pulling into the driveway her panic only seemed to escalate.
"Oh Jesus Edward. Tell me again why we are doing this?" she said her voice matching the shaking of her hand.
I chuckled and brought her hand up to my lips "It's going to be fine Baby. You and me have been through much worse than this... this is a piece of cake." I said confidently. I looked down into her worry filled eyes and gave her a cheeky wink "We got this in the bag honey. Trust me."
"I'm glad you think so...Well I guess there's no backing out now."
"Nope," I agreed, walking towards the door and nearly having to drag Bella with me. She wasn't EXACTLY digging her heels in, but she wasn't rushing either. I opened the door and grinned at Apple who was of course attached to my leg "Ready for our visitors?" I said excitedly and she beamed up at me.
"My grandma Nae, and Grandma Smee," She chirruped.
I looked at Noah who was cradled in my arm that wasn't attached to Bella. "How about you Mister? Course you're ready. Nothing gets to you does it my lad?"
Louis poked his head from behind Bella and gave me a cheeky smile "Ready too Daddy!" He exclaimed and I smiled at my eldest son proudly.
"So we are all ready? Matisse and Mummy look ready too don't they?" Bella gave me a narrow look and a tight smile and I laughed. "What's the worst thing that can happen? They are rude and we ask them to leave. It's us that are in control here Baby. This is OUR life and OUR family. We call the shots, no one else."
It was Charlie and Renee who pulled up first and I strode towards the car with my reluctant wife and happy children. I smiled at Renee and Charlie and although I got the mother of all death glares from Charlie, Renee actually gave me a somewhat friendly smile and a little wave.
"Well your mum still likes me. Yup" I said with a little stretch "I've still got the ass that all mother in laws love." I joked trying to lighten Bella's mood a little. I was worried my fingers were about to lose circulation with how tightly she was clutching them.
I gave Bella a wry smile as she set Matisse down on her feet and the little angel toddled off towards her grandfather. She seemed to instantly thaw his heart, however, when his attention was turned to me the anger came back with a vigour. I wasn't surprised and I didn't let it get under my skin. He was a father who was staring into the face of a man who had hurt HIS little girl time and time again. I imagined I would feel the exact same way if it were one of my daughters and because of that, I didn't begrudge him one iota of his anger.
It didn't mean I wanted him to make Bella feel bad because of it though.
She did nothing to cause his fury and I would not stand by and watch her suffer the consequences of my actions.
"Hello Charlie." I said politely, all my years of formal breeding paying off. My voice was raspy and rough however and I hated the way it sounded. I coughed trying to clear it a little, but there was no success so I carried on and ignored it. "You look well."
Charlie looked as though he wanted nothing more than to beat me into a bloody pulp, but one look at his daughter seemed to change his mind and he sighed before answering that he would feel better if he weren't worrying about Bella night and day.
I nodded. I could understand that. He was a father worrying about his daughter.
It was another person my alcoholism had affected, another person I had wronged.
"I apologize to you and Renee both Charlie. No parents should have to watch their daughter go through what I put Bella through. I broke my promise to both you and Renee. I told you I would care for her always and I failed at that. I won't stand here and make excuses, I made mistakes and my biggest mistake was choosing the bottle and my pain over my family. I can apologize to you both, but it won't change anything. I can't take back what is done, but I can make sure I never repeat those mistakes again. I'm sober and I intend to stay that way. Nothing " I said, my raspy voice was thick with conviction and sincerity "will EVER come before them again. Ever."
I stood before Charlie, our eyes locked "That being said and out of the way, I still want you both to know that if you want to discuss this with me privately later, I am more than happy to do so. You both deserve answers and I'm happy to give them to you. But for now, I think your daughter and grandchildren should take priority. I know they all missed you both terribly."
"You can bet we'll be discussing this later Edward," He said fiercely "and you to Bella,"
Renee hurried forward and threw her arms around us both. "I'm so happy for the both of you. I always knew you'd get over this hurdle. I've never seen to people more in love than you two always were. Don't worry about your father he'll come round. He always does." She whispered to Bella.
I hugged Renee back; a gesture which I think shocked her a little. "It's always a pleasure to see you Renee. Just stay away from the brownies this time ok?" I said teasingly.
Bella and her mother stared at me in shock for a moment, before Renee burst into laughter. After a moment Renee's attention was snared by her grandchildren's happy laughter and she followed them and Charlie into the house.
I put an arm around Bella's shoulders and pulled her to me, kissing her head with a sigh "Told you baby. You and me... we got this."
"Wish some your positive atoms would rub off on me,"
I grinned down at her suggestively "I can rub up on you whenever you like. You name the time and place and I will SO be there."
"Don't tempt me Edward. We're meant to be showing my parents how mature we are now. You know we have to make it past the bathroom on our way to the kitchen. And if you say things like that I won't be able to stop myself from making us take a pit stop."
I was about to tell her that I was quite happy to make a pit stop, when the sound of another car pulling in diverted my attention. "Oh good. It's my cock-blocking parents." I said a little morosely. I smiled down at Bella and waggled my eyebrows "ready for round two?"
"No I'm not ready but I'm outta time to run and hide. So let's go."
I rubbed her arms consolingly "Thatta girl. It will be fine." We walked towards my parents and I squeezed Bella's hand as my father and mother stepped out of the car. "Hey Dad, Mum." I said in greeting.
I shook my father's hand, but he pulled me into an awkward hug as I would not let go of Bella's hand.
She was nervous, I could feel it and I was going to give her any support I could.
"Edward Son, you don't know how happy I am to see you both together like this. Thank god!" He said releasing me and pulling Bella into a bone crushing hug.
Her hand slipped from mine as she hugged my father back. "How are you Bella? You look well." My father said pulling back only long enough to glance down at her before hugging her tightly once more. He whispered something else to her that I couldn't hear, nor could I hear her whispered reply.
My mother ignored both my father and Bella and rushed towards me, embracing me and kissing my cheek.
"Oh honey. Look at you! You always look so THIN now. You need looking after... You are skin and bone." She said and I rolled my eyes.
I hugged her back and whispered in her ear "remember to keep it civil Mum. Don't make this difficult. Please."
She pulled back and looked at me seriously her eyes brimming with tears. "I worry Edward. I can't apologise for that. You're my son and I nearly lost you." She said quietly.
I hugged her and she hugged me back almost ferociously. "I'm fine Mum. I'll be even better once you say hello to Bella." I said softly and I felt her stiffen, but she nodded.
Reluctantly she let me go and turned towards Bella. Her entire demeanour changed and she was instantaneously that fearsome woman she had become once more.
She appraised Bella coolly before nodding politely "Isabella. You look... lovely." She forced a smile but it didn't reach her eyes and I was about to say something when she spoke again. "Thank you for inviting us. I've missed my son and grandchildren and it was kind of you to invite us here."
I watched my mother and Bella interact and I was disappointed with Esme's behaviour. It was wearing thin on me and I was about to say something once more when Louis appeared from nowhere at his mother's side.
He smiled up at Esme who stared at him in absolute adoration. She knelt down beside Bella and touched Louis's cheek tenderly. "Hello Louis. My how you've grown," She whispered in awe.
Louis reached out and took her hand and pointed to the house, telling her silently that his sisters and baby brother were inside and he wanted to show them to her. She nodded and wiped the tears from her eyes as she walked hand in hand with him back into the house.
She gave me a warm smile over her shoulder before she disappeared inside.
I breathed a sigh of relief and turned to my father "So dad. How does it feel to see your wife wearing your balls these days?" His eyes widened before they narrowed and he playfully punched my stomach.
"I wouldn't let your mother here you say such thing Edward or you could find yourself without a pair of your own."
I laughed lightly.
Carlisle followed Esme into the house and I turned to Bella with a broad grin.
"Two down. Only two to go and the last two are the easy ones... Speaking of easy, here comes Rose now..." I joked as Emmett, Jasper, Rose and Alice pulled into the driveway. Emmett was of course the first out of the car, hanging over the door as he regarded us both with a grin
"Jesus fucking Christ Assward what the fuck have you done to my SISTER? "Fuck Bella I hoped you caned his emoward ass before you agreed to take him back. Though why you'd take the fucktard back is beyond me."
I looked at Emmett seriously "You know it won't happen again Emm. We've been through this." I said adamantly. I knew how much Bella meant to him and how much it had hurt him when she had left. Because of me.
Bella looked extremely uncomfortable in Emmett's embrace and I gently took her hand, giving her the option of moving away from him if she chose. I was quite prepared to let her stay in his arms though if she were happy. I just wanted her to be happy and feel safe.
She suddenly aimed a kick at Emmett's shin and he let out a booming laugh, Bella had forgiven Emmett already. I relaxed when I knew she was ok and when she stepped back into my arms I couldn't lie, I felt better and calmer.
Emmett smiled at Bella and shot me another warning glance before Jasper stepped forward.
He gave me a warm smile and a quick greeting before turning to Bella. "Hey Bells. It's good to see you again... and with Edward no less."
"Hey Jazz it's good to see you again to, real good. You're looking good, healthy and happy. Has life been kind to you?"
"Life is always good to me Bells. Always. So," He let Bella go and gave me a quick one armed hug. "Mum and Dad here bro? Mum was on the phone to me all the way up here, grilling me for information. You know, she's a bit of a worry these days. She can be kinda mean."
I laughed and nodded "yeah she can. Her and Dad just arrived before you guys. Oh and Emmett?" I said getting his attention "She said she wants to 'talk to you'. She didn't sound happy bro. What did you do?"
I gave Bella's hand a squeeze when she began to open her mouth and she shut it tightly looking at me curiously. I just stared at Emmett with a serious expression.
Emmett looked toward the house in worry before his eyes shot back to me in panic
"I aint done nothing to piss mum off but I hope she pulls out that mean pimp hand of hers and beats you with it Emoward. You've ruined our mother Edward"
I smirked at him "I dare you to fucking say that to her bro. No, I fucking DOUBLE dare you to say that to her. You'd look good with a black eye."
Jasper laughed and pulled Alice into his arms.
I smiled at Alice "Hey Alice. You look well. Short, but well," I teased. I wasn't actually sure how Alice felt towards me after everything that had happened with Bella, but it just felt natural to tease her like I always had.
"And you look like... actually I don't know WHAT you look like, but you look tragic. And your dress sense has slipped. Badly."
I grinned at Alice "Thanks short stuff. Always good to see you too."
Rose stepped forward, but basically ignored me as she looked at Bella. "Are you sure about this Bella? It seems like a really stupid move to me." She said, giving Bella a cool and appraising look.
"I wouldn't be here if I wasn't Rose and please use your manners and say hi to your brother in law?"
Rose looked at me and barely hid her sneer "Brother in law? Technically I suppose. How are you Edward? How was that fall from grace?" I felt Bella stiffen in my arms and a small growl echoed forth from her but I cut it off with my response,
"I'm good Rose. Really good. The fall from grace as you put it; well, not so great. But then you can't appreciate the top until you've spent time at the bottom. I wouldn't worry though. You've spent enough time at the bottom that you'll appreciate the top once you get there. Eventually."
Bella laughed at my comment and hugged her sister, telling her to give her bitchiness a rest to which I was grateful. She had just moved onto hugging Alice when Aro came up the driveway, a suspicious looking plate of brownies in his hand.
Of course, Renee had sensed their mood altering presence and came outside to greet Aro, asking if they were his famous brownies.
Aro grinned at me evilly before turning to Renee "Ah Renee. You get more beautiful each time I see you. Your daughters are truly blessed to be carrying your genes." Renee giggled and blushed as Aro came to her and handed her the brownies "Alas, these are not the same brownies as I have made before. I merely wanted to make the little ones something sweet for pudding, though if you are interested, I DO have some of my 'special batch' back up at my place." He winked at her "maybe a little later though?"
Dinner was awkward to say the least, both my mother and Bella's father seemed determined to make Bella and I the main topic of conversation, they probably would have succeeded had it not been for Aro who changed the subject every time it came up.
Finally Charlie threw down his napkin and dragged himself to his feet, it seemed he had tired of Aro's attempts at subterfuge. "Look you two there's no easy way to say this so I'm just going to come right out and say it." He sighed heavily as he cast his eyes on Bella and I and continued with his rant...
...I listened to Charlie's raving speech with a growing sense of outrage. How fucking dare he threaten to take my children away, to take away Bella's children? Not even over my fucking dead body was that going to happen! I cast my furious gaze on my mother; she had gone too fucking far this time. Worried about me or not I wasn't going to tolerate this bullshit from her anymore!
"Edward. Darling. It's not a healthy relationship. For any of you. I don't want to see you or my grandchildren hurt again. Please understand." She pleaded desperately. I could barely conceal my revulsion for her.
Carlisle's fork clattered as it hit his plate, and the room fell into a deathly silence, no one dared to even take a breath. Before I could get to my feet and give them a fucking ultimatum of my own Bella stood up and set Esme and Charlie with a basilisks glare, I was surprised either of them hadn't burst into flames by the sheer intensity of it.
"While I respect your right to your opinion. I have to say that I really don't give a flying fuck what you two think..." Bella seethed at our parents casting them a baleful glare...
... As I had with Charlie I listened quietly to Bella speak; the whole time spent staring at my mother blankly. Her eyes were begging with me to understand her, but I simply couldn't. She had always claimed to just want to help me but what she was doing was nothing short of breaking me.
Bella flopped down into her chair beside me, sighing heavily, this was taking a huge toll on her emotionally and I wasn't going to allow that to continue.
I stood quietly and continued to look my mother in the eye as I spoke. My voice was calm and collected. "What did you hope to accomplish Mum? Did you think threatening to take our children would make me 'see' what you are trying to tell me?" I leaned forward on the table, resting my weight on my knuckles as I glared at her "Do you HONESTLY think THREATENING me will accomplish your goals? I don't care what you and Charlie think you can do, get a lawyer. I'll get fucking a hundred to counter them. Do not THINK mother that I will allow you to destroy my family, because I won't. I may have changed a bit over the past year but not that fucking much. You threaten my wife; you threaten my children and my family..." I laughed darkly "And I don't care who you fucking are, you are crossing a line you won't come back from. You are standing right on the edge of that line Mum. Take a step over it and we are done."
I turned to Charlie "we welcomed you into our home as our guests. I offered to discuss this with you privately. I find it rude and offensive that you could not offer us the same courtesy." I turned to my beautiful wife and took her hand in mine, kissing it reverently. I pulled her to her feet and stared at her with all the love I felt for her shining through me. "It doesn't matter Bella. I don't care what they say. I KNOW this is right. I know our family is right. I love you. Always."
I kissed her lips softly, briefly before resting my forehead against hers.
I had looked at Charlie as he'd issued his ultimatum, but a lot of my former patience with the man was gone.
"With all due respect Charlie, I have nothing to prove to you. The only people whose expectations I have any desire of meeting are my wife and children's. And hear me when I say this..." I looked at my mother as well so she knew it was directed at her too "If either of you EVER come into our home again and treat us with such disrespect... You will never be welcome again."
Apparently the matter was not closed; once I took my seat Aro took the stage to give Esme and Charlie a few choice words of his own, words both Renee and Carlisle agreed with. It didn't stop there both Carlisle and Renee added their two cents worth, Renee surprisingly throwing around a few threats of her own.
I was grateful for the small miracle that our siblings didn't decided to throw their opinions into the ring, I couldn't promise it wouldn't have ended in bloodshed had they tried!
The rest of evening passed in a state of unpleasant awkwardness and when it was finally time to say goodnight to everyone, I couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief. Emmett and Rosalie left with Aro, while Jasper and Alice left with my parents. Charlie and Renee said their uncomfortable goodbyes and when the house was finally free, I leaned against Bella theatrically.
"See. Told you it would be fine." I said with a grin and a chuckle.
"Jesus if that your idea of fine I shudder to think what you'd call horrific...I'm just glad it's over. All I care about is you and our kids. As long as we're happy that's all that counts."
"I'm always happy when I'm with you..." I sighed happily.
The last thing I felt like doing was fucking socializing, while I would be forever indebted to Aro I really didn't feel like celebrating his birthday. The only thing I was interested in celebrating was Bella's glorious body, any time spent not doing that was time wasted in my opinion.
I glared at Bella in mock anger, sighing theatrically for added effect, not that it did me much good, my angel took a seat on the step and pointed toward a box of pink Chinese lanterns and then up to the trees she wanted them hung in. I got the wretched lights in the tree after much battling with the sharp ends of branches that stabbed into me whenever I made a wrong move and was hoping that was all Bella wanted me to do, i was over this party before it even started!
My eyes narrowed when Bella started bossing me around again, this time she was deliberating over where the bonfire should go, telling me it needed to be moved a fraction to the left, at this point I was ready to suggest we put the fire under the lantern adorned trees, and burn the fuckers down!
I shot her a sarcastic smile and she burst into a fit of giggles. The sound sent a shiver of pleasure down my spine.
"Be thankful it's not Alice doing the directing she'd have you positioning it to the alignment to the constellation of Aquarius." Bella quipped. I was about to come back with my own snappy retort but when I thought about it she was right Alice would have made me align it to the position of the moon!
...Bella burrowed into my side even though the heat from the bonfire took the chill of the air, I had to admit I fucking loved the fact that she hadn't taken her hands off me all night. The constant surging of Bella's life force through my body kept me more than warm, my blood burned molten hot in my veins.
I strummed idly on the guitar for a moment, tuning it, before plucking a tune that I hoped Bella recognized for its significance.
"Shed a tear 'cause I'm missin' you
I'm still alright to smile
Girl, I think bout you every day now
Was a time when I wasn't sure
But you set my mind at ease
There is no doubt you're in my heart now
Said woman take it slow, and it'll work itself out fine
All we need is just a little patience
Said sugar take it slow and we'll come together fine
All we need is just a little patience
(patience)
Mmmm, yeah"
I hated how raspy my voice sounded, my damaged vocal cords was one of the things that pissed me off. I knew how much Bella had loved my voice before; I wished it sounded how it used to be when I serenaded her.
She obviously recognized the sentiment behind the song by the passionate kiss she gave me.
Aro's backyard was full of the people I loved the most; it was fucking awesome hanging out with my friends without the drugs and booze. I liked the chilled out, laid back vibe of the party, so different to anything we had done before. It made me realize just how much the drugs and alcohol fuelled our crazy and debauched behaviour.
I grinned up at Aro as the old hippy made his way over to us; he looked like he was enjoying his party.
"Mama's got a Squeeze box" He practically ordered me. He closed his eyes and smiled as I strummed the first few cords. I rested my head against Bella's as I played Aro's song, the old man made his way over to Rosalie where he dropped to his knees in front of her. I rolled my eyes when Rose gave him a flirty smile. She was sure to give the old fool a 'woody', as he referred to it, or a fucking heart attack!
Aro crawled up Rosalie's body to get to his feet and I shuddered, it was just fucking wrong, so fucking gross. Rosalie turned to look in our direction grinning evilly at Bella and me for some fucking god forsaken reason, I looked to Aro for explanation and fucking gagged when the crusty old cunt made a 'fucking' motion behind Rosalie.
Surely he wasn't going to? Surely Rosalie wasn't going to? The old hippy was just fucking with me. He grinned and shrugged his shoulders. I looked over at Emmett, horrified when I noticed he was grinning at Rose in what looked like anticipation. I shook off the ridiculous notion there was just no way that was going to happen.
I finished Aro's song and pulled Bella closer, crushing my lips to hers, desperate to chase away the disgusting thought of Aro and Rosalie.
By the time I broke the kiss and looked around Rosalie and Aro had disappeared, no doubt to get high...
Aro took a seat next to me, the old hippy was grinning at me like a stoned fool.
"So did you rock his world baby?" Emmett asked making sure he was clearly heard by everyone.
"I don't know baby you'll have to ask him that, but he surely did rock my world." She turned to blow a kiss at Aro, before turning back to Emmett, "He does this thing with his tongue, and oh my god, honestly Emmett anyway I'll teach you later."
I gasped audibly, gagging a bit as bile rose in my throat.
"What's the Matter Edward?" Rose asked innocently yet she had an evil glint in her eye.
I was staring at her in absolute horror. I had thought that they had snuck off to get high somewhere; I never believed Rose would actually go through with it.
I looked at my friend, who was staring off across the water with a grin a mile wide on his face "You didn't..." I said to him and he just nodded. "And you... Emmett?" I looked at my oldest brother in concern "Emm?"
My voice was nearly a high pitched squeak and I heard a quiet chuckle come from Aro.
"Oh chill out Edward, it was Emmett's idea! When I was stuck for a gift, you know for his birthday. And let me warn you sweetie the man has talent! I'd keep him away from that wife of yours or you might just be out of a job." Rose said with an evil leer.
My arm tightened around Bella of its own accord though I wasn't really worried. "You suggested this Emm? Fuck, were you deprived oxygen as a baby or something? Did Mum really drop you? A fucking gift basket, a card, these are the things you get people for their birthdays... You don't offer your fucking girlfriend!"
I was dumbfounded. Completely and utterly dumbfounded.
"It's all good Eddie, Aro can die a happy man now, and Rosie obviously had a good time, fucking look at her, you can see the sparkle in her eye, well through the haze you can. And besides she would have used condoms, so it's all sweet. And it's the last chance Rosy had to sow her wild oats, I'm sticking a ring on it tomorrow!"
"A ring on what? Your cock," I asked. Bella burst into laughter next to me but Emmett rolled his eyes.
"On Rosalie's finger you fucktard. Me and Rosy are getting married!" He announced to the party at large.
I stared at my brother as if he was completely fucking retarded, I was actually convinced he was, he was planning to get engaged yet he let his fiancée fuck another man. A crusty old man at that! Like I said 'fucking retarded'
Aro reached over and pushed underneath my chin closing my gaping mouth, "You'll let the mozzies in my young lad. It's all good, Lucy gave this old man the ride of a lifetime and I'm pretty sure she was happy with it too. Your brother understands, sex and love aren't mutually exclusive," He said and I balked. He put a hand on my shoulder and squeezed. "It's alright Edward. It's alright."
I turned to Bella "They are all crazy aren't they?"
"Yeah they are, but I love them anyway." Bella giggled. She leaned over and hugged Emmett, "I'm glad you're marrying my sister, but you will never let her do anything like that again."
"You are all fucking crazy. I thought I had issues...." I said shaking my head. I turned to Aro, "Well, I got you a new violin. It's a birthday slash thank you gift. So you don't get to fuck me or my wife sorry." I said with a laugh.
"Edward, sweetie it's ok, I'm just really happy she was gentle enough not to kill him...he's my friend and I would have missed him," Bella said soothingly.
Emmett, Rose and Aro burst out laughing and Bella joined them.
I stood up and held my hand out to Bella "Come on baby; let's go home, before whatever they have spreads." I said with a laugh. I gripped Aro's hand with my free one "Happy birthday Pa." I said to him and watched as his eyes glassed over with tears
"Thank you... son. I'll come down and visit with you both tomorrow." He said and I grinned
"Looking forward to it ya old perv." ...
..."God I can't believe Rose, the woman has no shame honestly, sometimes I can't believe we're related." I pulled Bella into my side as we walked down Aro's driveway
"I know. Jesus, what the hell is wrong with my brother? He practically pimped her out!" I saw Bella shivering, so I shrugged out of my jacket and wrapped it around her arms, pulling her into my side. "No way in hell I could do that. I couldn't share you with anyone!"
"Hmm...your brother certainly is extremely open minded. Honestly has he always had that morality chip missing? I know it was gone when I worked for him, I used to ask him if he had one at all."
I chuckled "Maybe someone really did drop him. It would explain a lot, the morality issue, the sheer amount of fucking food the man can eat... Still doesn't explain Rose though does it?" I said pulling out the keys for the door as we came to the doorstep
"Yeah it does, she was definitely born without a morality chip, I could tell you stories about that girl that would make your hair on the back of your neck stand on end, but I won't...All I'll say is she has always given Renee a run for her money in the inappropriate behaviour stakes, it's almost a competition between the two."
I unlocked the door and held it open for Bella to go through "Well Mrs Cullen, I am eternally grateful that you didn't inherit any of it. I'd be gray by now!" I closed the door behind us and locked it carefully. I scooped Bella into my arms and kissed her passionately, her fingers wound through my hair and she pulled us to the floor.
A low growl rumbled from my throat, echoing in Bella's mouth, as she crawled on top of me and deepened the kiss...
...I reached out for the phone before the racket it was making woke Bella,
"Hello," I mumbled trying to drag myself into full consciousness.
"Edward its Jake," His voice sounded alert, excited.
I blinked the hazy film of sleep from my eyes, looking down at Bella to see if the phone had woken her. I smiled down at her still sleeping form; she looked beautiful; so peaceful. The fringe of black lashes lay gently against her creamy skin, her cheeks wee flushed a dusky pink and a hint of a smile played on her full pouty lips. She looked like an angel.
"Hey Jacob, what's up?" I whispered.
"Sorry man did I wake you?"
"Nah not really, it's all good anyway. I'm just whispering cause I don't want to wake Bella, we had a late night." My thoughts drifted back to when we arrived home from Aro's party and the muscles it the pit of my stomach tightened. I smiled as the image of our clothes strewn across the floor by the front door flashed across my mind. It had taken us most of the night to make it from there to bed,
"So how are things going with you?" I asked snapping out of my perverted reverie.
"Things are good, no more than good, they're great! Leah's pregnant and we're getting married next weekend! It's why I called..."
"Wow Jake that's awesome news. Congratulations man. I'm really happy for you, you deserve to be happy Jacob. So next weekend aye? Shot gun wedding then!" I chuckled. I was happy for Jake; I would be forever indebted to him for taking care of my family when I couldn't. Jake deserved to be happy.
I looked down at Bella, sweeping an errant curl from her warm cheek. I was happy for Jake but how would Bella feel about it? Although we were together again I knew Bella loved Jake in a way, hell I almost lost her to him. How would this affect our nebulous relationship?
"Thanks Edward and yeah it's a bit of a shot gun wedding. Whatever you do just don't tell Tui that Leah's pregnant until after the ceremony, she'll flog me if she knew." I chuckled, imagining Jakes frail old grandmother beating him with her walking stick. "So I was ringing to ask you if you would stand up as my best man?"
The laughter died in my throat; I was touched by Jake's request. It was hard to believe how far Jacob and I had come in our own friendship. It had been so long since I had thought of him as 'Doogie Howser,' or the 'teen dream.' Jacob had turned out to be just as priceless a friend to me as he had been to Bella.
"I'd be honoured to stand up as your best man Jacob," I said sincerely.
Bella's eyes fluttered open, she blinked rapidly a few times and stretched her arms high above her head, the sheet slid from her body revealing the soft creamy swell of her magnificent breasts, the dark pink nipples standing erect, waiting for me to lavish attention on them with my tongue. I stifled the groan in the back of my throat.
"Thanks Edward that means a lot," Jake said once more bringing me back from my dirty thoughts. Bella looked up at me with a smile, her eyes asking me silently who was on the phone.
"Jake," I mouthed her face lit up, her pouty lips stretching into a wider smile. I stifled the pings of jealousy, they were completely irrational! I knew Bella didn't want Jake. The fact she was lying naked in our bed wearing my wedding rings was testament to that. Besides Jake had just given me confirmation that he too had moved on.
"You're welcome; just let me know the time and place and I'll be there." I reached out to stroke Bella's soft pink cheek, smiling when her eyes fluttered closed with a small sigh.
"We're having the ceremony next Saturday on the Marae; everything's arranged all you have to do is show up on Friday so we can run over the plan."
She would only ever react to my touch like that; I owned her glorious body as much as I owned her precious heart and soul. Bella was mine, and she always would be. My fingers ghosted down her throat and across her collarbone, I was rewarded with a low throaty moan from Bella's soft pink lips.
A shiver of pleasure shot down my spine at the sound. I was desperate to get off the phone so I could hear more of those breathless moans.
"Was that Bella?" Jake asked and I resisted the urge to chuckle she'd be horrified if she knew he'd heard her.
"Um...Yeah she just woke up. Do you want to tell her the good news or should I?" I was hoping he would say I could tell her so I could get off the fucking phone and ravish my wife.
"I'll tell her," Jake replied happily. Maybe that could work to.
"Ok then. Well I'll see you next Friday and congratulations again."
Bella's eyes snapped open she looked at me puzzled, I shook my head and passed her the phone with a smile.
The second the receiver was in her hand my hands were roaming over her soft supple skin...
...I kissed a path across Bella's collarbone sighing when I reached the soft swell of her breast. I sucked her pert pink nipple between my lips and was rewarded with another of Bella's sultry moans. It was fucking sublime.
Bella took a rasping breath and put the phone to her ear, "Hey Jake," she breathlessly. I smiled against her soft skin. It was my touch that took her breath away.
While I teased Bella with my tongue I kept my gaze firmly on hers as my hand ghosted over her stomach and lower, a light shiver rippled through me when it brushed the silky patch of hair. My fingers slid into Bella's wet warmth effortlessly, earning me another of her sweet throaty moans.
The sound was pure fucking poetry. I grew harder, impossibly so as I pumped my fingers into her gently curling them slightly when they deep inside her; just the way Bella liked it. Her hips jerked involuntarily burying my fingers even deeper. Bella needed to get off the phone as soon as fucking possible; I wanted those sweet sounds falling in a continuous stream from her pouty pink lips. I wanted to kiss and nibble those sweet delicate lips just like I was doing to her diamond hard nipples.
I kept my eyes on her face.
If I hadn't been watching her so intently I would not have seen her smile slip for that fraction of a second before she got it fixed back into place Although she was trying to hide her true feelings from me they were written vividly in her eyes. I could see the confusion, the happiness for her friend warring with fear that she was going to lose him. I understood her fears even though I hated them, Jacob had been there for Bella right from the very beginning, right from when he first met her. She had relied on him; he had taken care of her. He had never once let her down.
Jacob had been the most constant person in Bella's life, he knew her just as well as I did maybe better than I did in some ways. It didn't bother me as long as Job stuck to his word and cared for her if I should lose my life but until that happened my wife would never have to rely on Jacob Black for moral support or anything else.
I would look after my wife.
"That...That's great news Jacob. I'm so very happy for you and Leah." She said and although her voice faltered it rang with sincerity. She was happy for her friend, she was just petrified what that meant for her.
Tears suddenly gushed down Bella's cheeks.
"Bella?" My voice though quiet was full of stress. I loathed seeing Bella cry. She shook her head and smiled, they were tears of happiness. I relaxed minutely and went back to my ministrations; I continued to watch Bella as I pushed my fingers deep into her warmth.
"I'm so happy you asked him Jacob, you have no idea how much that means to me." She whispered and I understood the reason for her tears. "You forgot 'Boy Wonder," she snickered then suddenly erupted into a fit of delicious giggles.
I fucking loved hearing her laugh as much as I loved hearing the symphony of sultry moans that fell from her luscious pouty lips. I laughed along with her; I had forgotten about the 'boy wonder,' jibe myself.
as I watched Bella's happy mood vanished, her wide chocolate eyes were unable to conceal her fear though she was trying hard to hide it. I sighed heavily I didn't know how to even begin to show Bella how much I loved her, how I could never leave her again.
Finally she ended her conversation, her emotionless gaze lingered on the phone. Bella was trying to appear impassive but of course I could see straight through her mask. I slid my fingers from her and rolled us on our sides. I knew Bella was going to shut down, knew she was going to construct those damn walls around herself.
Bella shied away from anything that she found to painful or too hard to deal with. I would not allow her to that this time, if she ever wanted to move passed the fear that imprisoned her beautiful soul then she needed to confront and deal with what frightened her.
"Yes," she said automatically and unconvincingly, "I'm happy for Jacob, if anyone deserves happiness it's him, and Leah, she really is a lovely person. She's...perfect for Jake." I believed that bit I knew she was truly happy for Jake but I didn't believe for one second she was ok; I could hear the faint hint of fear that made her voice quiver ever so slightly.
As hard as I tried I could not hold her gaze, I caught the look of guilt that flashed across them as she looked away. My Bella was suffering and I could not stand to see it. Even though she was the strongest woman I had ever met at the same time she was just so delicate, so fragile she looked extremely breakable. I gently squeezed her fingers, hoping to regain her attention but she did not look up. I let go of her hand bringing my fingers to rest under her chin I tilted her head up forcing her to meet my gaze.
Bella could not be allowed to hide from herself and she could not be allowed to hide from me, not if we wanted this marriage to have a hope in hell of surviving.
"You won't lose him Bella..." I told her gently. A look of horror flashed across her face before her expression turned apologetic. I pressed my fingers to her lips; she had nothing to apologize for. "There's nothing to explain sweetheart, I can't even begin to tell you how much gratitude I have for Jacob. He took care of you Bella when I didn't." She shook her head protesting but I pressed my fingers a little more firmly against her soft lips, "I know you won't lose him because Jacob has sworn to me that you and the kids will always be one of his top priorities. Jacob is the trustee of my will Bella he will always be there to take care of you. I trust Jacob without question. I trust him to look after you if I can't. I trust Jacob with my life, because I trust with you."
Jacob had obviously not told her this by the stunned look on her face; he truly was a remarkable person, his grandmother's grandson. He had the same mana as the lovely Tui.
"I'm sorry Edward," Bella said the moment I relinquished her lips, "I didn't mean to hurt you."
"I know you didn't and I'm not hurt Bella. As long as you're happy then that's all that matters to me." My finger lightly traced around her lips, "Besides that I know that while I'm still breathing you aren't going to need Jacob to rely on. Nobody but me will ever need to look after my family again." I took Bella's face gently in my hands, "I swear to you Bella, I'll never leave you again. I swear I will never give you a reason to have to rely on Jake."
"I know you won't leave me," She whispered.
Bella allowed me to hold her gaze as I leaned in to kiss her, my lips moved with growing urgency against hers as I slid my fingers back into her wet heat...
a/n: Please feel free to review this chapter :)
