Fall was perfect weather for walking Maggie, my Brindle chihuahua, who, despite her pint-size, seemed to be dragging me. I was struggling to keep up, and out of nowhere, a large dog came towards us barking ferociously. Terrified for the safety of my little dog, I scooped her up in my arms, squeezing my eyes shut as I stiffened in anticipation of an imminent attack. It was then that I heard a voice yell, "heel!"
I peeked through one eye to see a Pit Bull terrier cowering on the ground. A man, whom I presumed was the dog's owner, stood nearby glaring. My mind slowly registered; we were safe, but I feared if I relaxed, I would start shaking. Maggie had no such qualms but shook uncontrollably while trying her best to climb inside my blouse. I whispered words of comfort as I ran my hand over her sleek coat.
Although I'd never met the man, I'd seen him pull in across the street in a truck with Green Thumb Nursery printed on the door. I was seeing him up close for the first time, and his chiseled good looks were what my friends would tag as 'hot.' Even compared to my height of five-nine, he was tall … over six feet. Beneath his fitted T-shirt, he was noticeably fit. His hair was a sexy mess of rich bronze, and his eyes were jade green.
"That beast belongs to my brother, Emmett, who needs a dog like he needs another hole in his head!" I felt a bit sorry for the unknown Emmett, who would undoubtedly receive a butt chewing for his pet's transgression.
I put Maggie down, where she sat on my feet, trembling pitifully. My neighbor smirked, and it instantly raised my hackles. Did he seriously think my pet's distress was funny? His husky laughter annoyed me.
"Are you, Edward?" He frowned, and I hurriedly explained that I'd met his stepmother at the local grocer. "When I told her where I lived and where my dance studio was, she told me her son and stepson, Edward, live across the street."
"Yeah, I'm Edward Cullen. Like I said, that's Em's damn dog, sorry he scared you." He bent to rub my Maggie under her chin. "Don't worry," he grumbled, "I'll make sure the monster gets trained or chained."
"Th... thank you," I stammered, "but please don't chain him."
"I will not have a dog that makes a nuisance of himself; if he bothers you, let me know," he instructed.
I nodded and introduced myself, "I'm Bella Swan. I live across the street." Flustered, I smiled and twirled my hair around my finger.
"Yeah, I know who you are." A blatant and lengthy perusal was followed up by a smile that accentuated his perfectly shaped mouth. An awakening was triggered deep inside me. Suddenly, I wanted to kiss him. I forced myself to stop staring and speak.
"Well, um ... it was nice to meet you." I began stepping back, but in my rush to escape, I confused Maggie. She didn't respond well to the not so gentle tug I made on her leash, and I accidentally jerked her off her feet. Edward's rumble of laughter brought on a flush of embarrassment that was way beyond what the situation warranted. I stiffened my back and cursed under my breath as I made a quick exit.
In the weeks following my run-in with Edward Cullen, I regretted the less than flattering first impression I'd made. I couldn't stop thinking about him, much less deny how attracted I was to him. Sometimes, Maggie's walks just happened to be around the same time Edward left for work in the morning.
Fall turned to winter, and snow ended mine and Maggie's walks. Instead, I put her on a long leash in the front yard until one day, the Pit Bull terrier came running across the street headed straight for Maggie. I grabbed my dog and hurried inside and slammed the door as fast as I could.
Soon after, a knock from outside made me jump, and I looked through the peephole to see it was Edward. I opened the door holding a hand to my chest, "you scared the shit out of me!"
Edward choked out a not very sincere, "sorry!"
I ordered Maggie to stop yapping and told her to get in her bed. "Come on in," I offered.
Edward shook his head and stayed on the porch, "Naw, I just came to get Boots."
I looked down at the huge dog wagging his nub of a tail. He didn't seem near as scary as the first time I'd seen him. I thought the name, Boots, seemed a bit sissy for such a brawny dog. Then I noticed his feet were all black, and his coat was white. "Boots, hmm, good name," I had to bite my lip to keep from smiling.
Edward gave me a one-sided grin, "Ya know, I think Boots has the hots for Maggie." His eyes held mine, and he kept smiling.
"About that, it's not all his fault," I admitted. "The vet recommended Maggie go through her first heat before she gets spayed."
Edward raised his chin slowly in understanding. "Oh ... okay, that explains a lot. I guess this guy won't be put in solitary confinement after all."
I talked to Boots in the silly voice people sometimes use when addressing pets and babies. "He wouldn't do that to you, would he Boots?" I offered my hand for the dog to smell. I wanted to make friends. Edward leaned in, and I noticed his hair was slightly damp. Then his manly, fresh-from-the-shower scent enveloped me.
"How long should I keep Boots penned up?"
"Uhm, a ... another day." Edward, being so close, affected my ability to speak. It didn't help matters when he raised his arms to brace himself against the door frame. His lips parted, and his tongue raked along his lower lip, leaving it wet. I was barely able to stifle a low moan. Although his facial expression didn't change, I felt sure I saw a flicker of lust in his darkened eyes.
"Are you sure you won't come in for a while," I invited softly. In the ensuing silence, I began to wish I hadn't extended the invitation.
"I can't Bella, I gotta go," he rasped. "Here's my number in case you need to call me, you know, about the dog." He handed me a card and grabbed Boots by his collar. They headed down the stairs, but he stopped when the warped wood gave under his weight. He had to skip the last step and jump to the ground.
"I have to get that fixed," I mumbled, suddenly self-conscious. Replacing the front steps was just one thing that had gone undone since I'd inherited my dad's property. Every spare penny had gone towards my dance studio.
I felt a bit disheartened after Edward declined my invitation to come inside. I stared in the mirror and wondered what he saw when he looked at me. I accepted the fact that I was no rare beauty. My eyes, as well as my waist-length hair, were dark brown. My dancer's body might be sculpted, but secretly, I'd always wished for bigger breasts. Flared hips emphasized the curve of my waist, and I didn't mind my legs; at least they were long and toned. I looked over my shoulder to critically assess my butt and scowled. It was ridiculous to worry about what Edward thought of me. I was too damn old to be crushing on a guy anyway.
A few weeks later, the weather was clear but still cold. I was able to again take Maggie around the neighborhood. Hearing an approaching vehicle, I stepped out of the road. Edward pulled up beside me in his truck and rolled down the window.
"Hi, Bella, how are you?"
"I'm good, how about you?"
"I'm fine," he answered. "Boots hasn't been a pest anymore, has he?"
I laughed and shook my head, "no. I think Boots and Maggie should be friends."
"You sure you trust him, you're not afraid he might accidentally hurt Maggie?"
"We'll never know if we don't try, and since they live across the street from each other, they need to get along."
"Hop in, and I'll give you a ride home," he offered.
"All right," I agreed. I gathered Maggie into my arms. Edward's jacked-up four-wheel-drive truck wasn't exactly easy to get into. CD cases covered the seat, and Edward rushed to collect them.
I picked up one of the CDs and asked, "May I?" Edward shrugged his shoulders, and I looked at a few labels. "What were you listening to just now?" He turned up the volume, and sexy blues-rock came through a sound system that rivaled the one in my studio.
"You like it?" He asked before lowering the volume.
"Mm-hmm," I hummed in reply. "I'm always looking for music that will inspire my students."
"You teach dance?"
"Why, Edward, are you interested in taking lessons?" I teased.
"Just makin' conversation," he smiled.
"I used to dance professionally." Edward raised his eyebrows and seemed to want to know more, but we'd arrived in front of my house. I hoped I could get out of his truck more gracefully than when I got in. I opened the door and turned to thank him for the ride when something cold touched my hand. I let out a yelp of surprise and looked down to see Boots, his pale gray eyes staring up at me.
Edward rushed around the front of his truck to see what had scared me. "Oh, it's Boots. It's okay; he won't hurt you, Bella. I swear he's not the same dog he was. I threatened to haul him off if Emmett didn't train him. My brother loves that dog, and he's worked hard to teach Boots good manners."
I put Maggie down so she and Boots could sniff one another, and they started playing.
Edward snorted, "people think all Pit Bulls are killers."
"Honestly, I believe there are exceptions to every rule whether you're talking about dogs or people."
"I'm glad you believe in giving not only second but third chances. I'm convinced the second time Boots scared you; it was because Maggie was in heat. He wasn't showing aggression," Edward winked, "he was just eager."
I shivered and was thankful I could use the cold air as an excuse for my reddened cheeks. "I'm happy they're getting along, and now Maggie has a friend."
I bent down and praised Boots, "you're a good boy." He drooled as I rubbed his perky ears. Maggie stood on her back legs, begging for her share of attention. Edward knelt and patted his leg for her to come to him, she placed her front paws on his thigh as he scratched her back. I couldn't help but envy my dog at that moment.
Spring came early, and I was eager to get outside. It was time to start tackling some of my D.I.Y. home projects. I dug around in my shed to find a crowbar and a hammer and got busy tearing out my dilapidated front porch steps. Several days into the project, I stood staring at the small dent I'd made. It wasn't near the progress I'd hoped to have. I glanced up when I heard Edward's truck across the street. I hadn't seen him much and figured since it was spring, he'd been extra busy with his landscaping business. I rubbed the ache in my lower back but kept working.
"Hey," Edward spoke from directly behind me. The crowbar I was using broke the head off a rusty nail, and the sudden release of pressure caused the bar to smash my finger between metal and wood. I sucked in a breath and cried out in pain. Just as I did every time I hurt myself, I spewed a litany of curse words. "Mother fucking son of a bitch, gawd dang that hurt!" I shoved my injured finger between my chest and arm.
"Let me see!" Edward had witnessed my fit, and my face burned in humiliation. He gruffly repeated the request, "let me see." I simply stared up at him as he tried to extract my busted finger from its hiding place. When his fingers brushed against my breast, he uttered an emphatic, "fuck!" He snatched his hand back as if he'd touched acid. I swiftly forgot the pain in my finger. Our eyes clashed, and his expression grew fierce. I felt tears gathering behind my eyelids.
"Do you have a medical kit?" he demanded. I felt nausea rise as the blood pulsed from the torn flesh. Edward's harsh tone turned conciliatory, "Bella, tell me where your medical kit is."
"In the bathroom, the right-hand side of the medicine cabinet."
Edward led me to the side porch and advised me to put my head between my knees. I heard him open the patio door and run through the house. He was back within seconds, opening the medical kit. He poured alcohol over the wound, and I hissed from the sting. He took in my anguished expression and began blowing on my finger.
"Holy hell, use peroxide, it doesn't burn!" I complained from between my teeth. Edward frowned, but grabbed the peroxide and used it instead. Relief spread across his face as I relaxed and stopped trying to pull away from him.
"Damn woman, what the hell are you doin', tryin' to tear down these steps by yourself!"
I couldn't understand why he was angry with me. My injured digit throbbed with every beat of my heart as he wrapped it in several layers of gauze and then taped it. When he finally released me, my hand returned to its hiding place against my chest.
"Thanks, you should've been a doctor," I joked. He frowned, and his eyes narrowed, he didn't like his question going unanswered.
"You okay?" he asked.
"Yes, thank you, I think I'll go in and lay down." When I stood, the world spun. Edward reached out to steady me; heat radiated from his hand to my waist. He slid the door open and watched me head straight for the living room couch. I heard the tap of Maggie's toenails on the hardwood floor and realized I'd completely forgotten about her; Edward had gotten her off her leash and let her inside.
The morning after I injured myself, I found work gloves lying on the steps beside my tools. I wanted to call Edward to thank him, but I talked myself out of it. Then, a few days later, the partially rotted boards I'd managed to remove were loaded into a construction dumpster bearing the Green Thumb Nursery logo on the side. I looked across the street to see Edward pulling out of his driveway; I waved, and he tipped his hat in return.
Days later, I slathered on sunblock and grabbed my headphones. Music helped pass the time while I tediously extracted rusty nails from the old wood. I felt a tap on my shoulder, but this time it was Jacob behind me. Jake was a cute, sixteen-year-old, not yet grown into his lanky frame. He lived a few blocks over, and every summer, he mowed my yard.
"Hi, Ms. Bella, I was going to see if you want to put Maggie inside while I mow the lawn?" I pulled my work gloves off to do as he suggested. Maggie was happy with the attention Jake gave her.
"What are you listening to?" Jake nodded at my headphones. I held them out for him to listen, "country music fan, huh?" He smiled down at me and offered his hand and proceeded to show off his excellent dancing skills.
"Jake, you've been holding out on me," I bragged. "The problem is, Maggie digs holes in the yard, and I'm afraid we might break an ankle." He laughed and headed back to his job, and I returned to mine. Only minutes later, I felt, more than heard someone beside me.
"You're gettin' sunburned."
"Edward!" I took off my headphones but still couldn't hear what he said.
"Sorry, I can't hear you," I shouted. Jake sat atop the mower only feet away, and everything we said was drowned out by the noise. Jake watched us intently and didn't pay attention to where he was going. I covered my eyes to avoid seeing him get swiped across the face by an overhanging tree branch. The noise of the mower's engine cut out immediately. I looked through my fingers to make sure Jake hadn't been knocked out of the seat and was shocked to hear Edward's laughter.
"Stupid little shit should keep his fuckin' eyes on his work!" Astounded by Edward's outburst, I stared. "What? It's true," he exclaimed.
"That's mean, and you know it!" I admonished.
Edward stepped closer, "he's taken twice as long as necessary to mow your yard and ... he's lookin' at your ass!"
I reached for the glass of lemonade I had sitting nearby and took a huge gulp.
"Really?" I asked in a high-pitched voice. Edward nodded his head smugly.
"How do you know, you just got home?" I argued.
Edward looked around, "Naw, Em has the truck today. I've been home since noon," he smirked. "I'm just curious, what's with the dancin' in the yard?"
I flushed. "We were just having fun." Wait a damn minute; I didn't owe him an explanation!
Edward took the pry bar from my hand and easily ripped out several boards in the amount of time it would've taken me to loosen just one.
"Want gloves?" I asked, holding a pair out to him. "By the way, thanks for these and the dumpster." I looked at Edward's hands; they were callused and scarred, no doubt from years of hard work. Off in la-la land, I didn't notice he was reaching for the gloves I'd offered until I felt him tug them from my grip. I picked up a board and began to remove the nails.
Edward's hand stopped me, "this is treated wood. It isn't recyclable, so it's okay to leave the nails." Needless to say, I felt stupid.
Jake finished the lawn and loaded his mower into his trailer. I walked over to pay him and saw the scratch across his face where the tree branch had hit. "Are you all right," I asked in concern. Jake nodded; his cheeks were red, and he glared at Edward. I reached in my back pocket for a couple of twenty-dollar bills and commended him for a job well done. "Thanks for the dance," I spoke loudly in case Edward was listening. I waved goodbye as Jake drove away.
I couldn't understand what Edward was muttering but knew it was something filthy. Shards of wood splintered and showered the yard. I bit my lip, trying not to laugh and went inside to fix Edward a lemonade. Maybe it would cool him down.
I stood a few feet behind him to avoid the flying debris and cleared my throat. "Lemonade?" He pulled off a glove and took the glass and swallowed the entire thing in a few gulps. A trickle ran over his chin and down to the hollow of his neck. He used the hem of his sweat-soaked T-shirt to wipe his face giving me a quick peek of his ripped abs.
"I doubt you took off work so you could work on my porch," I mused.
"That's exactly why I took off," he snapped. "I planned on coming over here to help you, but then I saw you had company."
I was utterly dumbfounded. "Are you talking about the boy who mows my yard?" I stood with my mouth agape, and Edward chucked me under the chin to remind me to shut it. "Why would you waste your day to help me?" He didn't answer; just slid up his sunglasses. I couldn't help but stare, the man was simply gorgeous!
"You're going to be in pain tonight," he scolded.
"What...?" I asked dumbly.
"Come 'ere," he crooked his finger. "You're burnin'."
I looked down at my chest. "I wore sunscreen." Edward's fingers ghosted across the sensitive skin above my collarbone.
"Bella, you're so damn beautiful," he looked as surprised as I felt to hear him say such a thing. "You better go inside."
I stubbornly held my ground, "why?"
With troubled eyes, he took my hand and held it to his lips. Tingling traveled up my arm straight to my heart. "Bella, don't work on these damn steps anymore! You're ruining your beautiful skin."
In a snap decision, I did what I'd wanted to do for months, I wound my arms around Edward's neck and pulled his lips down to mine. A soft mewling sound escaped me, and he deepened the kiss. My eyes popped open just in time to see him slam his shut. He tasted delicious, like red wine and tobacco. The fingers of one of his hands laced between mine, while his other hand caressed my neck. I've never wanted anyone so much in my life, and I knew I could quickly become addicted to Edward Cullen. I tipped my head back to gasp for air. My fingers tangled in his hair, and I felt him grow still.
"Why did you do that? I could've walked away if you hadn't kissed me." His apparent anger and disgust hurt. The kiss we'd shared had been extraordinary, the best kiss of my entire life, and he regretted it. I stumbled back and ran; I made it to my front door before he stopped me. I leaned against the cold metal, wishing he would let me go.
"I'm sorry! I'm sorry, Bella, please wait," he groaned. "I shouldn't have said it that way. You don't understand, I never should've come around you. I'm not good for you." He dropped his hand from my back, and I missed the warmth.
I slipped inside and went to my bedroom. I fell across the bed, crying over and over, "what just happened?"
When I woke the next day, I couldn't face the possibility of seeing Edward. I decided to go visit my friend Angela who was more like a sister. It was an enjoyable day, and just the break I needed, I stayed overnight, and it was late the next day when I drove home. When I pulled into my driveway, I blinked rapidly. My front steps were rebuilt.
I pulled my cell phone out of my pocket, quickly going to my contacts. I found Edwards's number, but my call went straight to voicemail. "Hi Edward, this is Bella. Would you please call me back, thanks."
I went inside to change clothes and wondered why Edward would go to so much trouble for me. Was this his way of apologizing?
Perhaps.
After a lot of thought, I decided to stop obsessing. I returned outside and breathed in the sweet tang of wild honeysuckle in the air. I sat and enjoyed my new steps while dreaming of getting the perfect porch swing. I heard the sound of Edward's truck and watched him pull into my driveway. Maggie wagged her tail, and I went to meet him.
"Hi, Bella."
"Hi Edward," I felt shy after what happened when we were together last.
"Did you do that?" I pointed to the new steps.
"Yeah," he answered softly.
"Thank you so much! It would have taken me weeks to get it done. Is there anything I can do to thank you?" I asked.
"What did you have in mind?" he teased wickedly. He had a talent for making me blush. Too soon, our flirtatious revelry ended.
"I need to talk to you about something Bella." To my dismay, Edward sounded nervous. "Here you better sit," He motioned for me to sit on his truck seat. I looked at him curiously and climbed up. He stood by the open truck door. "Okay, first, I'm gonna ask you not to scream, or slap me," he waited expectantly.
My eyebrows shot up, "What are you talking about, Edward?"
"There's no easy way to say this, so here I go." He cleared his throat, "a few months ago, I went to get something out of my truck, and I heard music. I discovered there's a certain vantage point where I can see in your studio window." He cursed under his breath and tugged at the ends of his hair.
"Watchin' you, the way you dance," he hissed.
I was stupefied. Anger bubbled over, and what I wanted most was to slap Edward Cullen's gorgeous face. He noticed my hands ball into fists, and he backed up.
I slid down out of his truck seat.
"Oh. My. God. Edward! You watched me for months?"
His face blanched. "I know it was a shitty thing to do."
I stomped my foot, and hot tears of humiliation slid down my cheeks. "Is that why you started coming around, and the reason you helped me with the porch; you needed to relieve your guilt?" I pushed him, but he didn't budge. He put his arms around me, and I pounded my fists against his chest.
"Bella, stop," he warned quietly. He took my wrists and held them gently.
I bowed my head in shame, "who else watched?"
Edward dropped my hands and snarled, "no one! There's something you need to know about me, Bella; I don't share. I know I should've stopped, but I didn't know you then. After we met, I stopped." He seemed genuinely contrite.
"I know you're upset, and I don't blame you, Bella, but please forgive me?" He cradled my head in his hand, "don't go all embarrassed on me. As hard as it's been to tell you, I'm not sorry I did." I heard the rasp in his voice and knew he was sincere.
He wiped my tears and lifted my chin. "I keep having to tell you I'm sorry. Before you Bella, I fuckin never said I'm sorry. Even when I knew I was wrong, I didn't say it. It seems like I end up havin' to say it every time we're together." His hands dropped to his side, "If you don't want me around, I'll honor your wishes."
I'd never seen Edward look sad, and I instinctively felt the need to comfort him. I could hardly speak past the emotions choking me.
"I have to go, Edward."
He walked me to the door and made sure Maggie was in before walking back to his truck. He backed out and drove towards the highway; I wondered where he was going.
Days later, after dance class, I confided in my friend, Alice. I told her about Edward and admitted to having feelings for him. I acknowledged how hurt I was by his recent revelation.
"He can't be too bad, Bella, he watched you and then confessed. So what if it was because he felt guilty, he apologized. He sounds like a good guy." Alice advised.
I hadn't considered why Edward divulged his secret; after all, he could have kept it, and I would've never known.
"I think about him all the time. I'm not mad anymore," I told Ali.
"Why aren't you mad anymore?" she asked.
"Well, to be honest, if I had the chance to watch him without him knowing, I would." We looked at each other and burst out laughing.
"Well, there you go, you've got your answer," she reasoned. "You don't need to sit around brooding over it. Let's go to the Renaissance Faire over at the community college." I knew she was right; It would be good for me to get Edward Cullen off my mind.
It was always fun to go out with Ali; she made me laugh more than anyone I'd ever met. We'd made the rounds and visited almost every booth when we agreed we'd had enough. We sat in my driveway with Alice's car, idling.
"I'll call you tomorrow," I promised. We hugged, and I got out. When I got to my door, I heard Maggie scratching from inside, and I hurried to unlock it.
A warm hand touched my arm, and I screamed.
"Edward, you scared me!"
"I gotta quit doin' that," he mumbled. "Are you okay?" I nodded. "I came over before dark, but you weren't home."
I opened the door, and Maggie ran between our feet on her way to the yard. "I went out. I didn't feel like sitting around worrying about our quarrel."
"I've been staying away, hoping if I gave you time, you might forgive me. I miss you, Bella." My mouth gaped; the admission was so unlike him. I dropped all pretense and wrapped my arms around his waist.
"I miss you too, Edward, I'm not mad anymore." I looked up and pushed the hair off his forehead. He smiled, "aww, there's the smile." I traced his lips with my finger, and he playfully snapped his teeth. I twisted my hand in the fabric of his shirt and pulled him forward. I was silently inviting him to come inside, but he resisted.
"Bella, I'm not comin' in tonight, now behave yourself," he chastised. I pouted up at him. His laugh was low and sexy. "Will you go somewhere with me on Friday?"
I answered immediately, "okay, where?"
"Just wait and see, let it be a surprise. I'll come by around six." I stared at his cute ass as he walked back home.
Friday night, Edward pulled in and even came to collect me at the door. I'd been anticipating seeing him all week. Inside his truck, I fiddled with my seat belt. "Where are you taking me?" He looked over and shook his head; he thought my impatience was amusing.
"We'll be there in a few minutes. I think you'll like it." He turned down the hip hop that blasted through the speakers and took the Amphitheater exit. I was excited when I realized we were attending an outdoor concert. We were early, and it didn't take long to park. I waited while Edward came around and opened my door. I climbed down carefully, trying not to show him my undies.
Edward took out the tickets, and I saw the name of the opening act, TTB. Their concerts usually sold out months ahead, and I couldn't believe Edward had gotten us tickets.
First, we bought sodas from the concession. I followed Edward's example and swallowed half of it; he then liberally spiked it with whatever was in the flask he pulled from his pocket. Dark jade eyes watched as I swirled my finger through the mix and then tasted it.
"Yum!"
We got as close as possible to the stage, and the show started. As the crowd grew, it pressed closer. Edward's hand never strayed from my hip as I swayed to the music. After drinking all of mine and most of his Jack and Coke, I was feeling pretty loose. I backed into Edward and wrapped my arm around his neck. Even though it was bold for me, I was a little less overly affectionate than some who were around us.
He smelled so damn good, and he felt even better. I knew I was giving him a hard-on; I could feel it. I looked up at him, giving him a look that said, 'yes, yes, a thousand times, yes!'
"No more whiskey for you," he whispered in my ear. I reached back and ran my hand along his thigh. He took my hand and twirled me away from his crotch. He hadn't helped his cause much, because now I was facing him.
"Edward," he quickly thwarted my attempt to pull his mouth down to mine. "Remember the other day when we kissed? I know you liked it. I liked it, too; you have soft lips." I smiled up at him and kissed his chin. He smiled back, reluctantly. He stared at my lips and lifted me off my feet, then buried his face in my hair.
"Bella, if I kiss you, I won't be able to stop." He lowered me to my feet. I looked toward the stage, trying to seem interested in the concert. I felt the constant pull of the man beside me, and I couldn't stop looking over at him hungrily.
Abruptly, his arms snaked around me, halfway carrying me; my feet barely touched the ground as he shouldered his way through the masses. I wondered where we were going.
We finally emerged outside, and he pulled me behind a building. He quickly checked to see if anyone was around before tugging me against him. His hands went through my hair, and he used it to hold my head in place. His mouth covered mine as his tongue stroked and tangled with mine. A stifled moan and the kiss deepened. I was ready and willing, and I wanted everything he had to give.
His hand slid down my back and squeezed my round bottom. The full length of his body pressed into mine. The dress I wore allowed me to feel everything, and when he lifted my leg, it only made me hotter.
Something wet hit my face, and I blinked as large raindrops started to fall in earnest. I couldn't believe our lousy luck. Edward shook his head as if he couldn't believe what we'd almost done.
"I was about to fuck you right here, Bella! I'm"... I put my hand over his mouth.
"Edward, if you were about to say you're sorry, then don't, I'm just as much to blame as you are."
"Let's go," he took my hand, and we splashed through the parking lot to find his truck. He opened the passenger door for me.
I raised my hand to his face, " I had fun tonight." He looked away, "no, really, it was great, thanks for asking me." When he got in, he sat staring out the windshield.
"Edward, are you mad?" I dared ask.
"Not at you, Bella. I didn't mean to treat you with disrespect," his voice faded off.
"I'm okay," I told him. I looked down at my rain-soaked dress to avoid his expression. "At least we didn't get caught," I laughed. Edward didn't laugh. It reminded me of his negative reaction the first time I kissed him. "Have you fucked many women in parking lots?" I was trying to get a rise out of him, and I succeeded; he clenched the steering wheel so hard his knuckles turned white.
"A few," he snarled, "but you're never going to be one of them." He frowned at me, "you're too good for that, Bella. You're the kind of woman that deserves a man who will make love to her on satin sheets with rose petals, and I don't know how to be that kind of man."
The blood rose in my cheeks; he thought he wasn't good enough for me? "Don't put me on a pedestal, Edward; I wouldn't have stopped you if you had fucked me in the parking lot. I'm only human."
Neither of us spoke on the drive home. The unexpected cloudburst seemed to have passed, leaving glistening drops that sparkled like broken glass on the grass. Before I could open the truck door, Edward came around to help me. We walked to the door, and as soon as the key turned in the lock, Maggie jumped out. Edward scooped her up to put her on her leash. He was silent while waiting for the dog to finish her business. When he brought her to me, he leaned forward to brush a kiss on my cheek, "Goodnight, Bella."
Sunday, I got home from church and was intent on changing into something comfortable. A knock on the door thwarted my plan, Edward stood outside.
"Hey." Since we parted on Friday, I hadn't expected to hear from him.
"Come in," I asked hesitantly, opening the door wide. To my amazement, Edward stepped inside. He looked around the room, and I offered him a seat on the couch. I sat in my favorite chair.
"Been to church?" He asked. I nodded. He leaned back, sprawling his long legs in front of him. "Will you come and sit by me?" My heart was beating furiously.
"Sure," I managed to say. I sat down, and Edward stared at me like he was trying to figure something out. At last, he put his arm over my shoulders, and I curled towards him.
"I can't seem to get it right with you, Bella. Normally I would give up, but there's something about you. I don't have the strength to stay away from you anymore. I swear it's not because I used to hide and watch you through your window." A grin crossed his face.
I pulled away from him, "You shouldn't hide and watch women, Edward!"
He pulled me back, "I didn't hide and watch women, Bella. I just watched you, and that's in the past."
"Stop justifying yourself!" I hit his leg, and he grinned. I tried not to fall under the spell of his smile but failed. He pulled me into his arms, and I heard a deep rumble of satisfaction come from his throat.
"I want to kiss you, Bella, but I shouldn't. You smell so sweet, and I know for a fact that your mouth tastes like cotton candy." I puzzled this in my mind as I laid my head on his chest and listened intently to his exhilarated heartbeat. I wanted to kiss him but felt a bit gun shy after Friday's train wreck.
He loosened his hold, and I sat back on the couch. I looked for something to fill the silence and handed him the TV remote. Of course, being a guy, he chose to watch an action movie. I pretended to watch as I inched my hand over until it was beside his.
"If you want me to hold your hand, just ask," he smirked. He laced our fingers together and held them on his leg. A pleasant buzz went through me to see my hand lying on his muscular thigh. I'd never been this drawn to another person. I glanced at his face; his hair was combed-back and emphasized his features. I'd never noticed the bump on the bridge of his nose. It wouldn't surprise me if he'd broken it in a fight. Edward had a temper; his anger was quick to flare, but it cooled just as quickly.
"I'm gonna lose it if you don't stop looking at me like that." He turned his full attention to me, and a second later, I found myself lying flat on my back with Edward over me.
"I warned you," he growled. His kiss was unlike any other we'd shared; it was full of longing. He held my face in his hands, and his thumbs lightly brushed my cheeks. He pulled back and looked into my eyes. "Bella," he whispered, "your name suits you; you're beautiful."
The way he said, Bella, made me breathless. His scruffy beard scraped against my throat, leaving a pleasurable sting. His body pressed into mine, and we sank farther into the soft cushions. I held to his muscular shoulders as they knotted and bunched beneath my fingers. I moaned when his warm wet lips left a trail down to my neckline. His eyes sought my permission; I didn't hesitate for a moment.
He reached around and unzipped my dress then tugged it down to reveal my lacy bra. "You wore that to church?" He crossed himself and then kissed the cross that hung around my neck.
I was shocked by his mocking attitude. I tried to sit up, and he laid his hand across my chest, "Where do you think you're goin'?" He grinned playfully while sliding my bra straps down one shoulder at a time. His joking ended when I tangled my fingers in his hair and pulled.
My eyes shuttered as he licked and nipped my burning skin. It was delicious when at last, he palmed my aching breast and covered my nipple with his mouth. Hot sparks shot through me, and I lifted my hips to grind against his erection.
Seeking to gain control once more, Edward's hand splayed across my trembling belly. "It's all right; I'll take good care of you, baby." His warm breath blew across the dampness between my legs and made me quiver. My fists clenched in his hair. The rumble of his laughter vibrated through me, "Is this okay?" I nodded feverishly. "Thank God. If you hadn't let me taste you, I would've fuckin killed myself!" He pulled my panties down with his teeth then lifted my hips to gain better access. Despite my impatience, he took his time. It seemed he intended to discover all my secrets.
The pleasure he derived in pleasuring me enhanced the experience. My head thrashed side to side, and my legs shook. Sensing it was time to stop taunting me, he increased his efforts. His green eyes sparkled up at me as he ran his tongue along my center, and applied the perfect amount of pressure in a rhythm my body couldn't resist.
As I climaxed, I felt overcome with gratitude. I'd never been with a man who was so selfless when it came to sex. Edward grinned up at me, then rose from the couch in one motion. He held his hand out and helped me up. I quickly pulled my dress up to cover my breasts and down to cover my ass.
"Uhm," I cleared my throat, "I'll be right back."
As I walked down the hall to my room, I looked back and saw Edward's trademark grin.
Under the spray of the shower, I thought about what had just occurred and was amazed. I didn't look any different when I glanced in the mirror. Just this morning, I had doubts if Edward would come around again. I was so happy he did! From the middle of the bed, Maggie gazed at me, and I patted her on the head.
Edward was waiting on the couch when I returned. As I walked in front of him, he grabbed my legs and pulled me onto his lap. I laughed and relished it when he wrapped his arms around me. I ran my fingers through his hair, kissing his jaw. "You smell good," I whispered in his ear.
Being near him made my heart pound. I laid my hand on his chest over his heart, and he leaned back. I tugged the hem of his T-shirt; with closed eyes, he raised his arms, and I pulled it over his head. He gasped as I grazed my fingers through the soft hair that ran down the center of his belly. I was staring at perfection. On the outside, he seemed so calm. I found it exciting to test his control.
"Edward," I whispered, and he opened his eyes. I kissed him. I mean, I really kissed him! My fingers made their way to the waist of his jeans and below. Even constrained, his cock was impressive, and I could hardly wait. Carried away in a haze of lust, I sucked and nipped, leaving marks across his chest.
"You're driving me crazy, you little vampire!" His hands slid into my hair, and he forced my head back so he could kiss my neck. His teeth lightly grazed the tender skin there.
With a tortured groan, he confessed, "I want you so bad, Bella!" His beautiful eyes pleaded with me. "You gonna put me out of my misery and let me make love to you?"
Any bashfulness I'd felt before left me, and I wiggled out of my shorts. Edward helped me straddle his lap and pressed his lips over my heart.
"I was whipped the first time I saw you. I used to work from dawn to dusk. Now all I care about is hurrying my candy ass home so I can see you. I'm pathetic! What have you done to me, woman?"
I kissed him while untying my halter top, it fell, and his mouth hungrily pulled at my breast. "I. Want. You. Edward." My fingers worked the button of his jeans, and a second later, he tugged his zipper open and shimmied them down. He retrieved a condom from his wallet, the foil wrapper was torn open with his teeth, and he quickly slid it on. I bit my lip and whimpered.
"Like this, or do you want to lay down," he panted.
I answered by guiding his erection inside and lowering myself slowly. A drop of sweat ran down his temple, and he held me still. We both shook with the intensity of the moment. Edward pressed his lips to my neck. I ran my hand down the ridge of muscles along his back, and he stared into my eyes as he lifted his hips.
"We fit perfectly. You're so perfect, Bella." Edward's sweet words were in direct contrast to the pure unadulterated lust I read in his eyes. I had to grab his shoulders for stability as he steadily increased the momentum. He continued to whisper revelations in my ear.
"I dream of you every fuckin' night. Oh God! Does this feel as good to you as it does to me?"
"So good, so, so good, I wish you could stay inside me forever!" I threw my head back, and the strongest orgasm I'd ever had shuddered through me. It came wave after delicious wave, leaving me limp.
Edward lifted my head gently, "let me see those beautiful eyes, that beautiful face," he gasped. The coolest guy I'd ever met was something to see when he lost it. He stared into my eyes until the last second, and then his eyelids slammed shut as he shuddered to completion.
I hadn't expected to hear a rumble of laughter as he hugged me tightly.
"That was way better than just good!"
I was surprised to see three love bites across his chest. When I kept staring, he looked down.
"What's with that, are you marking me as yours, Bella?" He swatted my ass lightly as I rolled off his lap, then laughed at my pretended outrage.
His boxers and jeans were down around his ankles, and I bent to pull them up. He stood, giving me a view of his sexy ass and muscular thighs before they disappeared as he walked down the hall to the bathroom to dispose of the used condom. I tied my halter top and pulled on my panties and shorts.
I looked up when Edward came down the hall. I handed him his shirt and watched as he tugged it down.
"Em and his girlfriend Rose want me to bring you over so they can meet you."
"Okay, do I need to change clothes?"
"Naw, you look great. Are you hungry? We can order a pizza if you want. Emmett eats like a horse; we better get him one of his own," he laughed. I could tell he was nervous, and I wondered why. I asked him to take Maggie out so she could relieve herself before we left. While he was busy, I applied makeup and pulled my hair back. I was looking forward to meeting Edward's younger brother.
Edward came in with Maggie and asked if she needed water in her bowl. I watched him tend to her like she was his. It was sweet.
"You ready?" He offered his hand, and we walked across the street together. I admired the landscaped hedges and raised flower beds. I especially loved the towering oak that shaded his front porch.
We stepped inside the house, and I looked around. The walls were a soft color, and the wood floors gleamed. He led me to the kitchen and offered me a bar stool at the center island. "I'll go find Em and Rose." Edward disappeared around the corner. I could hear Boots running across the floor and giggled when he slipped and slid to a stop in front of me.
"Hey, Bootsie, what have you been doing? Maggie has been missin' you." I rubbed his back and kissed his massive head.
"Stop kissing that damn dog, you kiss me with that mouth," Edward teased. I crossed my eyes at him and put my arms around Boots' neck as booming laughter came from behind Edward.
"So, you must be Bella. I'm Emmett," he shook my hand gently. "I've been warned not to say anything embarrassing, and I promised to try." His eyes moved between Edward and me. "I have to say one thing; my bro hasn't been the same since he met you, Bella."
I giggled along with the beautiful girl standing at Emmett's side, who I assumed was Rose. I held out my hand, "hi, I'm Bella." I introduced myself.
"Nice to meet you. I'm Rose."
Edward slipped his arm around my waist. "We're going to order some pizza; you guys want some?"
Emmett grinned as if to say, "of course."
"What would you like on yours, Bella?" Rose asked.
"I like cheesy bread if that's okay," I answered.
"Do you like chocolate chip dessert pizza," Rose asked. I bugged my eyes out and nodded vigorously. She laughed and went to place the order. Em and Rose offered to go pick it up.
Edward took me through the kitchen and out on the back deck. "You have a pool," I squealed. He shook his head and laughed at my childish glee. "I love to swim."
"Good to know, and incentive to clean the pool well and often. Tell me, Ms. Swan, what do you wear when you swim?"
"I'll never tell," I dodged out of reach and ran down the steps. I knew Edward could catch me anytime he wanted. He let me run until I was out of breath, then grabbed me around the waist and pulled me down on top of him in the grass. He kissed me into compliance.
I looked up and saw we were close to the barn I'd always admired from my side of the street. "I like your barn. It must be old. Was it built before this was a neighborhood?"
"Yeah, this land belonged to my grandparents; all this used to be a farm."
"I've never been inside a barn; can we go in?" I begged.
He helped me up, and I dusted the grass off my clothes. Edward pretended to help but used it as an excuse to feel me up. When I grabbed his crotch, he called a cease-fire.
The barn was renovated inside with finished walls and floors. It was a giant space, and a canvas boxing ring dominated the center.
"You're a boxer," It came out as a statement rather than a question.
"Mixed Martial Arts involves boxing, along with wrestling and martial arts," Edward answered.
Emmett and Rose came in carrying four huge pizza boxes. I smiled, remembering Edward said Em could eat a whole pizza by himself.
A small, well-equipped kitchenette stood in one corner. I washed my hands and helped Rose set the table with colorful disposable plates, cups, and napkins. Em set the boxes on the counter for everyone to help themselves to the pizza. Edward pulled bottles of beer out of the fridge and handed me one.
"So, Edward, most people don't own a boxing ring. Do you compete?"
Edward exchanged a look with Em.
"Not anymore." He answered gruffly and suggested we eat.
I enjoyed the evening. We played a couple of hands of poker and started a game of monopoly. Things got crazier with every round of beer. Rose accused Emmett of cheating and checked his lap, and sure enough, he'd been hiding several of the game's deeds. A wrestling match ensued. Edward lost patience and threw the entire bank of fake money into the air, officially ending the game.
We went into the house, and I asked to use the bathroom. When I came out, Emmett stood against the wall. "You make him happy, Bella. He doesn't think he deserves that, but he does."
Edward came up behind Em, "What'd I tell you about runnin' your mouth."
With a snort and a shake of his head, Edward offered to walk me home. He delivered me safely to my door, where I kind of begged him to come inside. He claimed he had some things he needed to do at home and left shortly after.
Monday afternoon Rose came over for a visit. I was delighted, and we started getting to know each other. She was curious about the dance studio and was fascinated by the costumes and paraphernalia I'd collected.
"These are awesome, Bella; you've led such an interesting life." Rose's cell phone chirped, and she fumbled with it. "It was Emmett. He couldn't figure out where I went. It didn't occur to him; I was across the street. I'm going to head home. There's something I'd like to give you," she reached in her handbag and retrieved a DVD case. "This might explain some things." Rose hugged me and slipped out the door.
I read the label on the DVD case, MMA Championship, Edward Cullen versus James Hunt.
With the DVD in the player, I pushed play. Music blared, but above all, you could hear the audience cheering. The camera focused on each contender as they threw shadow punches and kicks. The booming voice of the announcer blared out, and the roaring crowd quieted. Referees introduced the fighters who then touched gloves and charged towards one another with powerful kicks and punches. When one of them struck a blow, you could see, as well as hear, the impact. It was hard to see Edward get hit; I found myself shouting at the TV screen. That was only round one.
In the second round, Edward's kick landed hard, knocking his opponent to the floor. Edward fell on him, pounding his opponent's head and upper body. Crimson flowed onto the white canvas, and finally, the ref stepped in and signaled the fight to stop.
The crowd roared, and the announcer excitedly named Edward as the victor. Edward's eyes were on his opponent. Medical personnel were making a concerted effort to revive the still unconscious man.
I latched Maggie on her leash and Boots came running, but stopped short and waited for Maggie to come to sniff him first. I left them playing and crossed the street to Edward's driveway.
Edward appeared out of nowhere and scared me. "What the hell, you said you were going to quit doing that!"
"I'm sorry I didn't mean to scare you," He scratched his beard and turned away to hide a smile. "I was in the side yard, and I saw you walking over. You want to come in?"
I nodded.
In the house, I could hear music coming from what I guessed was Emmett's room. At the end of a long hallway, Edward opened the door to the master suite. Light flooded in through the large open windows. Light blue walls contrasted beautifully with the dark comforter covering the huge mahogany sleigh bed. A matching chest and mirrored dresser stood against the wall. An alcove held comfortable looking furniture and a big-screen TV.
Edward invited me to sit on the sofa, and he took the chair. "Em said Rose gave you the DVD recording of my last fight."
I swallowed before answering, "Yes."
"Don't worry; I'm not mad at Rose. Now, you know why I don't like talking about my past. I still love MMA, but I quit competing because of that fight. I couldn't accept the official no-fault ruling."
"Edward, what happened was an accident. Why do you believe you're guilty of some wrongdoing?"
"Because my dad owned a gym and organized brutal underground cage fighting events. By the time I was fourteen, all my spare time was spent training to be a savage. That's when I met Emmett. He was a couple of years younger than me, but my dad pitted us against each other. It made me sick, and I hated it! Later, I found out Em was my half brother."
My hand flew up to cover my mouth, and tears sprang to my eyes.
"Dad matched me against men twice my weight; he encouraged them to use me for a punching bag. When I turned eighteen, I left. I joined a sanctioned gym and found a trainer. It took time to relearn the sport minus all the illegal shit. I thought I could overcome my upbringing."
Edward's head hung down, and he stared at the floor. "When I met you, I promised myself I'd stay away. I felt very protective of you, even if I was the one you needed protection from. I couldn't chance losing control with you."
I rose from my seat and stood in front of him and waited. I wasn't one-hundred percent sure if Edward would accept my attempt to comfort him. He wrapped his hands around my legs and rested his head on my belly. His warm breath made me shiver.
"Edward." I wanted to say whatever he needed to hear, but words failed me. I felt sure it wouldn't take much encouragement to get him to take me in that big bed of his. I was about to suggest the idea when he raised his head.
"I think it's gonna be okay, baby. Every time we're together, you prove you're able to accept me like I am. Sure, I might say or do things that shock you, but you don't run away screaming."
"You mean things like watching me through the window?"
"Yeah, just like that," his hands slid sensually up my legs. I want to show you something. Will you come outside with me?"
"Of course." It was a starless night, and Edward took my hand as we crossed the yard.
"It's over here," he pointed towards a tree-sized hedge and led me through a break. His black truck was hard to see in the dark. Once inside, I shamelessly dove across the seat to kiss his chiseled jaw. Edward took my face and directed my eyes across the street to my studio window.
"I was right here the first time I saw you dance. I heard music; it was hypnotic, and it made me curious. I couldn't believe what I saw at first, and I couldn't turn away. I swear it began innocently, Bella."
"I know, I believe you, Edward." I took his hand and held it on my upper thigh. "Everything happened the way it did to bring us together."
His lips crashed into mine, and he pulled me across his lap. Then, he said the sweetest words I've ever heard, "I'm so in love with you, Bella."
"I'm glad to hear that Edward; because I love you, too."
THE END
A/N
Beta, Fran Walsh. What this lady can do astounds me. I send her a mess and she makes it look pretty.
Thank you, Fran, you're awesome!
Thank you, midnightsun47 for the gorgeous banners!
Thank you to everyone who read and reviewed!
Hide and Watch is nominated for Top 10 Completed Fics March 2020. If you like the story, please vote?
* TTB Tedeschi Trucks Band go to Youtube and hear for yourself what an outstanding band they are.