So, not so new story ... I'm reposting this. This story was pulled years ago by FFn. That decision (without any sort of warning, really) forced me to move from just posting on FFn to Stars (then The Writer's Coffee Shop), AO3, and FictionPad. After doing some thinking, and FicPad turning into a for-profit platform, I've decided to repost this here. I may also repost A Ilha Do Amor, too ... we'll see.
This is ALREADY COMPLETE! PREWRITTEN
I will be doing some editing for content, but this is written in its entirety on Stars, AO3, Wattpad and FicPad (when it's not being a pain in the butt).
This is different from the norm. In all of the stories that I've read or that I've seen, all of the characters are disgustingly perfect unless they are written with very clear flaws. This story is about love (um, duh! Look who's writing it. I'm the queen of romance), and finding it in the least likely place with the least likely person.
Now, this story is based in a hospital. My medical training comes from…WebMD. I'm not a doctor, nor do I claim to be. I'm a music teacher who has a wild imagination and a penchant for all things Twilight (and with this story, added in a mix of ER! I loved Luca Kovac…) Which brings me to my disclaimer: None of this is mine. I'm not, nor ever will be, Stephenie Meyer. If was, I'd be rolling in the dough from her insane imagination that gave us Bella and Edward. No copyright infringement is intended.
Chapter Sixteen
EPOV
"So, Edward, tonight's the night," Rose said, waggling her brows. "My big brother is finally going to get some!"
"Shut it, Rosie," I growled. "I didn't want to rush Bella."
"I'm glad you didn't. Bella deserves all of the romance and foofy girly shit that you do so well," Rose quipped. "So what are you doing? Taking her to a fancy restaurant? Renting a romantic room at a hotel?"
"Actually, no," I said, blushing slightly. "I'm cooking her dinner here and spending the evening together at my place."
"WHAT?! Are you kidding me? Bella needs more, Eddie," Rose pouted on her perch on my bed while I finished putting my laundry away. "Maybe Mom can pull some strings and get you into the W Hotel…"
"Rose, she doesn't want all of that," I said as I took her cell phone from her hands. "When she lost her virginity, her ex took her a fancy restaurant and a romantic hotel. Afterward, he ignored her and broke her heart. All of those things have a negative connotation in Bella's mind. If I do that, she'll start thinking that I'm going to dump her, when in reality, I want to be with her forever."
"Okay, I get that but you can at least make it romantic in here. I mean, geez, Edward. It's bachelor central in your bedroom," Rose teased. "Get some candles and flowers."
"I hate to burst your bubble, Rosie. I'm a bachelor," I snickered, ruffling her hair.
"Yes, you're a bachelor but you're in a committed relationship. Some of your girl should be reflected in your home by now. Does she have a drawer? Space in your closet?"
"I cleared out the space, but she doesn't want to leave anything," I frowned. "Bella has grown so much but in so many ways, she's still skittish about us."
"Do you blame her? The one other relationship she had, he skipped out after they were intimate," Rose shrugged. "I'm thinking that she will start to move some of her stuff after you make love and she sees that you aren't going anywhere."
"I hope so," I said as I sat down on the bed. "Now, enough about my life. How are things going with a certain trainer?"
"Emmett? He's great," Rose blushed.
"And…?" I prodded.
"And we're friends," Rose said as she played with a string on my bedspread.
"There's more, Rosie," I said as I tipped her chin up to look at me.
She closed her eyes and sighed heavily. She was shaking slightly. "I like him, Eddie," she breathed. "But, what if he won't want me after what Royce did to me…"
"Then he's not worth your time," I said quietly.
"Plus, I'm also applying for medical schools to get my degree in psychiatry. Only two are here in Illinois," she said. "University of Chicago and Northwestern. The rest are out of state: Johns Hopkins, Harvard, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. What if he doesn't want a long distance relationship? Plus, the age difference…he's a year younger than you, Eddie."
"Have you been admitted to any of the medical schools?" I asked.
"Johns Hopkins accepted me since I technically 'deferred' my enrollment. I also received a letter from University of Chicago saying I was admitted via a legacy. Dad teaches a class there. I haven't heard from the rest," Rose said dejectedly.
"Where do you really want to go?" I pressed.
"Johns Hopkins or Northwestern," she answered. "I'd prefer staying close to home in case, you know, something happens?"
"Rosie, you are gaining strength every day. Plus, you're almost back to the weight you were at prior to Royce's attack on you," I said as took her hand in mine.
"But, Royce's trial is scheduled in six weeks, Eddie. What if he gets off? What if…he finds me again?" Rose asked, her green eyes hysterical and her breathing erratic.
"He won't get off. Trust me," I said as I hugged my sister. "Breathe deeply, Rosie." She clutched my shirt and breathed with me. "Again, Rosie." She sighed and relaxed in my embrace. "Better?"
"Yeah," she said meekly. "I'm sorry, Edward."
"Don't apologize. Your fears are very real and if I was dealing with them, I'd probably react the same way," I said as I pulled back. "However, the police had a ton of evidence against Royce, plus your rape kit, our statements and the two witnesses. He'll be going away for a long, long time."
"I hope so. I don't want to live my life in fear. When I'm with you or Emmett or even Bella, I feel normal. But, when I get home, it all comes apart. I'm afraid of my own shadow and of what might happen. Part of it is mom's insistence on doing stuff for me and dad's constant hovering."
"Have you considered moving out?" I asked.
"I have but I want to wait until I get accepted to medical school," Rose explained. "I don't want to sign a lease until I know where I'm going: Baltimore, Evanston, Cambridge or Chapel Hill."
"Makes sense. Rose, you can always come here if you feel overwhelmed by Mom and Dad," I offered.
"Thanks, Edward. I may take you up on that," she smiled, kissing my cheek. "Oh, by the way, Mom wanted me to invite you and Bella to Jasper's graduation dinner." She grimaced when she told me. "Sorry…they're really pushing this since you're not going to the graduation."
I rolled my eyes and stood up, pacing in my bedroom. "Do I have to go? I'm still so pissed at him."
"Me too, Eddie. But he is our brother," Rose said. "He's acted like a first-class douche to Bella and to Alice, but he is our family."
"Yes, we're family but he was disrespectful to Bella. He made her feel like she was less than nothing and not worthy my time," I growled.
"Well, Mom and Dad laid into him about his behavior. They said that if Jasper makes any comments to Bella that are inappropriate, we'd leave. Come on, I don't want it to be Mom, Dad, Jasper, me and Emmett. The more the merrier? Please? Pretty please?" she pouted and put her head on my shoulder.
"Where are we going out for dinner?" I asked flatly.
"Some new place called Alinea," Rose answered. "Eat before you come. The portions are über tiny and VERY expensive. But, Jasper wants to go there. I have no idea why. He's more of a meat and potatoes guy. I'd figure he'd choose Lawson's Prime Rib Steakhouse. Whatever."
"When is this dinner?" I sighed.
"Next Saturday."
"I can't next Saturday. I'm on, twelve hour shift," I explained. "So is Bella."
"The reservations are late. Nine in the evening," Rose said. "You can still come."
"We're working seven to seven, Rosie. It'll be pushing it. Plus, if there's an issue, we can't leave until our patients are cared for…" I said. "I'd rather go on a day where I'm not working."
"The reservations were extremely difficult to come by, Edward. Mom jumped at the chance and she prayed that you and Bella would be available," Rose frowned. "You can tell her that you can't come."
"We'll try. No promises, though," I said. "Now, I've got to apparently get some candles, flowers and girly shit. And you're going to help me, Squirt." Rose squealed and jumped into my arms. Together we headed out and got all of the necessary items to make my bedroom a romantic haven. Essentially a shit ton of candles, twinkle lights and pillows. Working together, Rose and I transformed my bedroom into the Mecca of all romantic bedrooms. I personally thought it was cheesy but Rose said that Bella would appreciate it.
My girl is going to laugh at this.
"No, she won't. She'll like it because you took that extra effort for her," Rose said. "I'm going to go. Have fun tonight and be safe. Do you need condoms?"
"I'm good, Rose," I said. Rose smirked and left my townhouse so I could begin cooking dinner for Bella and me.
Bella and I had talked about precautions and we decided to forego the condoms for now. She was on birth control and had had only one partner (Jacob). I've been living the life of a monk since my separation and divorce and had a clean bill of health. We wanted to be with each other in every way. I still had condoms in case Bella panicked, but I'm praying I wouldn't need them.
After Rose left and I got the preparations for dinner ready, I went up to my bathroom and showered, taking the extra time to shave. I also coiffed my hair as best as I could. Unfortunately, I had a tear in my contact lenses and I needed to go the eye doctor to get some more so I had to wear my glasses. I sprayed on some cologne, Tuscany, and swiped my keys, cell phone and wallet. Normally, Bella would just come over to my place whenever we had a date like this but I wanted to make her feel special. I backed out my Aston Martin, dropping the top since it was absolutely gorgeous out and drove to her apartment. On the way to the apartment, I picked up a bouquet of flowers. I set it in the back, behind my seat so I could give it to her when she got in my car. It was a gorgeous seasonal bouquet with all different types of flowers, each one more beautiful than the next.
I parked the car and locked it up before heading up to Bella's apartment. Using my key, I let myself into the building but knocked on the door, waiting for Bella to open it up. She did and she was gorgeous. Dear God. I blinked a few times, smiling crookedly at her.
"What? Do I have something on my face?" she asked, wiping her cheeks.
"No. You're perfect," I said as I slipped inside of the door. Her hair was down and curled softly. Her makeup was natural, enhancing her beautiful features. She wore a purple shirtdress with a belt around her waist along with the jewelry that I gave her for Valentine's day. In her hand, she was holding a pair of beige wedge heels. "Is there a reason why you're holding your shoes as opposed to wearing them?"
"I think Alice is trying to kill me. I measured the heel. It's four and half inches," she grumbled, holding the shoe to my face. "I can barely walk in flat fucking Crocs and she wants me to wear these? I'm going to break my damn ankle."
I took her hand, guiding her to the couch. "Sit, sweet girl," I said. She sat down on the couch while I sat down on the table. "Foot, please." She put her foot in my lap. "I like the pedicure. Sexy red on your sexy feet."
"Only you would find feet sexy," Bella quipped. "Angela was bored last night and she decided to play beautician and gave me a pedicure. It's different for me. I'm normally a pink or beige girl. Red's not my normal style."
I ran my finger down her leg, staring in her deep brown eyes. "It's sexy. I love it," I purred. "And you have to wear these to show off your sexy little toes." I kissed the top of her foot before slipping on the wedge heel. I repeated the action to the other foot. "You ready, gorgeous?"
"Huh?" she asked.
"You ready to go?" I chuckled.
"Sorry, you completely dazzled me, Edward," she said dreamily. "Damn sexy doctor, trying to sweep me off my feet."
"Is it working?" I asked.
"Oh, yes," she laughed nervously. "But, yes, I'm ready to go. My bag is by the door." I smiled and helped Bella to her feet. She stumbled a bit when she stood up, ending up in my arms. "Death traps, I tell you."
"If it means I get to hold you all night, then I'm all for them," I chuckled, cupping her cheek. I bent down and brushed my lips against hers. "Hi…I've missed you."
"Me too," she whispered, twining her fingers into my hair. I dipped my head again and pressed my lips against hers. Her mouth opened and I slid my tongue between her lips, earning a low moan from my girl. My hands moved from her waist down to her ass, cupping it firmly. "We should go, lover boy. I don't want to jump you in my foyer."
"Damn," I grumbled. "Will you in the future?" I swiveled my hips against hers, pressing my now prominent arousal against her belly.
"Perhaps," she giggled. "Come on, Dr. Sexward." I snickered and bent down to pick up her bag, slinging it over my shoulder. She picked up her purse and we left her apartment. As we walked past James' old apartment, Bella wrinkled her nose.
"What's that look for?"
"They are completely gutting his apartment because of the damage he did to it," Bella explained. "Banging on the walls, hammering, rotator saws…not pleasant when you worked overnight and all you want to do is sleep."
"If that happens again, just go over to my place. It's quiet," I said as I kissed her temple.
"Are you sure?"
"Definitely, sweet girl," I smiled. We headed out to my car and I helped inside. I tossed her bag in the trunk before getting into the driver's seat. Reaching behind me, I pulled out the bouquet of flowers for her. "For you, Miss Swan."
"Oh, Edward! They're lovely," she breathed as she put her nose into the fragrant blooms. "You didn't have to get me flowers…"
"I didn't but I wanted to," I said as I kissed her cheek. "Now, I've got a treat for you for dinner."
"What?"
"Baked salmon with pesto, asparagus and rice Verdi," I replied. "And for dessert, some vanilla frozen yogurt with fresh fruit."
"Sounds delicious," she beamed. "And perfectly aligned with my diet."
"I want to support you, sweet girl," I said as I kissed her hand. "I mean, I love you regardless of how you look but if you're committed to this diet, I want to make sure that you are successful with it. You know?"
"I love you, so much, Edward," she said as she leaned across the console, kissing my lips while we were at a stoplight. "Thank you for doing that for me. It means so much to me. AND I'm down fifteen pounds."
"That's great, Bella," I smiled. "Another reason to celebrate."
"What are we celebrating?"
"The fact that we've been together for five months. The fact that I have the most beautiful girlfriend in the city of Chicago. The fact that you're down fifteen pounds. The fact that we love each other so much that we're going to finally be together," I blushed. "In every way."
"I will not cry but shit, Edward. That was so sweet," she said as she fanned her face. "Why do you have to be so flipping perfect?"
"I'm far from perfect, Bella," I said dryly. "I just say what I feel, sweet girl."
"Well, you're pretty damn close to perfect, Edward," she said as she wiped her cheeks. "No more making cry, Cullen."
"Okay, I'll try," I snickered. I pulled into driveway and parked my Aston Martin. I got out of the car and picked up Bella's bag before opening her door. Lacing my fingers with her, we walked into house. "I'm going to bring this upstairs to my room."
"I can do it," Bella said.
"No, I insist. Why don't you find a bottle of wine and some music, okay?" I asked, distracting her from following me up the stairs. She nodded and walked to my butler's pantry which housed my wine fridge. I darted up the stairs and deposited her bag on the chair in the bedroom. I also lit the candles around the room to give it a warm glow and an appealing, sandalwood and vanilla smell. "God, she's going to think that I'm trying too hard."
"Edward? Are you okay?" Bella called from downstairs.
"I'm fine," I said. "Stick with it, Cullen. Woo her. Love her. Make love to her. Go team!" I'm such a fucking moron. I headed back down to the main level. Bella had chosen some music and it was being played through my sound dock. On the kitchen counter, she had a bottle of white wine opened and she was poking around in my fridge. "Looking for something?"
"I know you had some brie and crackers in here," she said. "A ha! Found it!" Bella turned around and put a small circle of brie onto a plate. "Pam said that this cheese goes perfectly with this wine. I wanted to see if it was true."
"Well, while you do that, I'm going to put everything into the oven," I said as I kissed her neck. "Can you pour me a glass?"
"Sure, handsome," she said as she grabbed a wine glass, pouring me a healthy serving. "Do you want some cheese?"
"In a bit. I want to get the food in the oven," I replied. I took out the salmon from the refrigerator and preheated the oven. As the oven was warming up, I made the asparagus and began boiling the water for the rice. Bella was seated on one of the stools in my breakfast bar. She was nibbling on some crackers and sipping her wine. "So, my sister was over today."
"How is Rose?" Bella asked, smiling widely. She and Rose had formed a close friendship. They met once a week to go out for lunch, dinner or some girly pampering.
"She's good. However, she's struggling with her relationship with Emmett," I sighed.
"Why? All she does is yammer on about him when we're out," Bella said, arching a brow.
"She's afraid of Emmett not wanting her because of her attack. Plus, she's looking into medical schools and her top choices are Johns Hopkins and Northwestern. Obviously, Northwestern is local but if she chooses Johns Hopkins, she'll be moving to Baltimore," I said.
"I have no doubt that Emmett will follow her. I spoke with him during one of my training sessions and he's over the moon over Rose," Bella smiled. "In regards to her attack, Emmett knows she was hurt."
"Out of the three of us, Rose is the most conservative," I said as I turned, sipping from the glass of wine that Bella poured for me. "She wanted to wait until marriage to have sex for the first time…"
"Edward, what she experienced was not sex. She was brutally attacked and hurt by Royce," Bella snarled. "In God eyes, she is a virgin. Well, in my eyes, she is. I've told her so during our outings but she doesn't believe me."
"We've all told her that," I sighed. "Forever, she'll feel like she's 'tainted.' She's not, though. My sister is the epitome of all that's good in the world. She's smart, beautiful, driven and any guy would be lucky to have her."
"Emmett wants her," Bella said. "More than just a friend. Rose wants Emmett, too. But, she's hesitant. Understandably, so. I'd be hesitant too. Rose and I are pretty similar in our beliefs about sex and intimacy. I'm not as conservative as her, but I was hesitant with us because I was afraid of being hurt."
"Do you still think that I'm going to hurt you?" I asked.
"The possibility is still there but I don't want to be in fear for the rest of my life and live a sheltered existence," she said, popping a cracker into her mouth. "But, I know that you would never intentionally hurt me. Your heart is too good, Edward. You say that Rose is epitome of all that's good in the world. You're wrong. You are."
I blushed and ducked my head. Thankfully, I was saved by the bell and put the salmon into the oven. I also put the rice into the water, setting the timer. I sat down next to Bella and poured myself some more wine. "Thank you, sweet girl," I said quietly as I nuzzled her neck. "I love you."
"Hmmm, I love you, too," she said as she cuddled into my chest. "There's something else you're not telling me, though. Being all cute, lovey-dovey and adorable is one of your known distraction tactics. Spill, Dr. Sexward."
"You're good," I chuckled. I kissed her head and turned her so I could look her in the eyes. "In addition to talking to my sister about Emmett and medical school, she also relayed an invitation for us." Bella's brows furrowed and she bit her lip. "We've been asked to go to dinner with my family for Jasper's graduation."
"Um, when?" Bella asked, her voice sounding much quieter than before. Her insecurities were coming back. I leaned forward and held her tightly.
"Next Saturday," I answered. "We're both working seven to seven but the reservations are at nine in the evening."
"Why don't you just go?" Bella suggested. "Jasper hates my guts. He won't miss me."
"No, we're a pair. You're the yin to my yang. Either we both go or we both don't," I said sternly.
"The yin to my yang," Bella said dryly. "Really?"
"What? It was the best I could come up with. You're the peanut butter to my jelly; the chips to my dip; the gooey icing to my Oreo," I quipped.
"Just stop, Edward. You are too much," she laughed. "The gooey icing to my Oreo?" I shrugged and flashed her my signature grin. "You are too adorable."
"I try," I said, putting my head on her shoulder. "So, are we going, Yin?"
"Were is this shindig?"
"Alinea," I replied. "Some high-falutin' restaurant where you get a meal the size of this cracker and it costs $200."
"Not really endearing me to go with you, Yang," she deadpanned.
"I'll promise you orgasms for afterward," I said, batting my eyes.
"How many orgasms?"
"Hmmm, three?"
"Add a massage and we've got ourselves a deal," she said, holding out her hand. We shook on it and then broke into laughter. "Who knew bartering with sexual favors could be so fun?"
"It is. And to up the ante…don't wear any panties to dinner, sweet girl," I purred, nipping at her earlobe.
"Say what?"
"I promised you three orgasms but we didn't delineate when and where. You will be getting one at the dinner table," I smirked.
"You are evil, Dr. Sexward," she scoffed. "But, the terms weren't clear so you get by on a technicality." My smirk grew and she rolled her eyes. "I'm assuming you want me to wear a skirt or dress, right?"
"You assume correctly," I chuckled. "Bella Swan, exhibitionist."
"You're a dork, Edward. You're the exhibitionist," she snorted.
"Eh, not so much but I'm willing to try anything with you, sweet girl," I purred, pressing my lips to hers. Her mouth is fucking heaven. Must kiss those perfect lips.
She pulled back and massaged my head. Bring those lips back, woman! "Do you want me to do anything? Other than sit here and get drunk on wine," she quipped. "And make out?"
"If you want, can you set the table in the dining room? I have the plates and silverware out, but I haven't had a chance to set it."
"Okay," she smiled. "Give me my flowers. I can put them in a vase as a centerpiece." I nodded and gave Bella a vase, her bouquet and one more soft kiss before sending her into the dining room. Fifteen minutes later, the meal I had prepared was complete and set up on the table, along with the salad and remaining brie and crackers. We tucked into the meal and Bella moaned appreciatively. That moan went directly to my dick. Do not take her on the damn dining room table, Cullen. You're civilized, NOT a caveman. "This is so good, Edward. You have to give me this recipe. And this sauce on the salmon? Pure heaven, I tell you."
"I'm glad you like it, sweet girl," I said as I nibbled on some asparagus. "It's really simple." I told her the recipe which I got from my mom and she was so excited that it was easy. We finished our dinner and Bella was adamant on doing the dishes since I did all of the cooking. I was ready to fight her but she all but shoved me out of the kitchen, telling me to relax as she cleaned up my mess. My Bella was a spitfire when she had her mind set on something. So, I went into my piano room, which was right off the dining room and began playing some favorites as she cleaned up.
"Edward, do you want some coffee?" Bella called.
"Nah, I'm good," I responded. "I just want my sexy girlfriend to come join me in the music room."
"I'm almost done," she laughed. "Jeez, Dr. Impatient." I heard her bare feet padding on the hard wood as she came into the music room. "I wanted to put the food away so you would have leftovers, Edward."
"Sorry," I smirked. "I just missed you."
"I was, what, twenty feet away?" she giggled, sitting next to me on the piano bench.
"Too far," I said as I continued playing the piano. My fingers began playing something on their own. The chords were soft, sweet and delicate. I poured all of my love for Bella into this improvised song. The melody haunted me for several weeks but this was the first time I'd had to actually play it. Now, with all of my heart, I played my love for my love. Cheesy, Cullen. You are so epically cheesy. I finished the song and wrapped my arms around Bella's waist. I felt her tears on my shoulder. "Did I make you cry again?"
"You really need to stop doing that," she laughed. "That was beautiful. Who wrote it?"
"Me. The melody was floating around in my head for awhile now and yeah…it just came out," I said as I kissed her ear, nibbling on her soft skin behind her earlobe. "I love you, so much, Bella. I never imagined of finding the depth of love that I have with you. I'm so lucky and I never, EVER want to lose you." I turned and looked at her. Tears were running down her cheeks as she stared at the piano. She breathed deeply before looking at me. Carefully, she removed my glasses and stared into my eyes.
"You're my dream come true, Edward. Prior to your arrival in Chicago, my life was empty and I was in so much pain. Physical, emotional and mental. But, you became my friend. You showed me kindness and love for the first time since my mother's death." Her hands gently cupped my cheeks. "I love you with every fiber of my being, Edward. You're my best friend, my boyfriend, my confidante, my lover and my rock. I never realized how much I was missing until I met you. I want you. I need you. Please, make love to me."
It was my turn to cry, tears falling down my cheeks. But, they were not tears of sadness but of joy. I crushed her to my chest, holding her tightly. Pulling away slightly, I peppered her face with soft kisses. I then stood up, picking her up in my arms. "Edward! You'll hurt yourself," she chided.
"Nonsense," I said. I carried her up the stairs and toward my bedroom. She was obviously not comfortable with me holding her and once I got to my bedroom, bedecked with candles, twinkle lights and soft pillows, I placed her on her feet.
"Oh, Edward," she breathed as she walked into my room. "You did all of this for me?"
"It's not too cheesy, is it?" I asked, biting my lip.
"It's a bit over the top but knowing you, it's perfect," Bella said, giving me a smile. "Who helped you?"
"Rose," I laughed as I turned off the hallway light, removing the harsh glow. Now, the room was perfectly romantic and soft. "Do you really like it? I don't want you to think that this is just some elaborate scheme…like with Jacob."
"I know it's not. You can't fake what you feel. Deep down, I knew what Jacob and I had wasn't a real relationship. But, at the time, I was in denial. What we have is real," she said as she wrapped her arms around my neck.
"It is, sweet girl. I know that you probably think that it's too soon but I know that you're it for me," I said quietly, holding her closely to my body. "I love you, body, mind, heart and soul. I'm so blessed to have you in my life and I will NEVER let you go."
"You really mean that?"
"I do. I see the entire future with you in it, Bella. You're my best friend, too. My dream girl. Everything that I could wish and hope for in a girlfriend, lover, wife, mother…" I whispered as I captured her mouth in mine. "I want it all. With you." Our lips crashed together and what started as a slow, sensual kiss quickly grew to be frantic. Bella's fingers were from my hair to the buttons of my shirt, unbuttoning them as she went, revealing my bare torso. Her fingernails dragged up and down my chest, eliciting a low growl from me.
Slowly, I walked us toward the bed. Bella's legs hit the edge of the bed and I gently guided her onto the mattress. Her legs were open to allow for my body to rest in between them. She had pushed off my shirt and it was thrown haphazardly onto the ground. Her fingers were massaging my back and shoulders as I gently thrust against her heat that was covered by her dress and panties. I need her. I need to make love to my girl. My future.
I pulled back and reached for the belt of her dress, quickly releasing it from her waist. I rolled us so she was perched on my lap. Our kisses were slow, languid and passion-filled. My fingers were moving up and down her legs until I reached her panties. She stopped kissing me and smiled softly. "Can I?" I asked. I lifted her dress to indicate my intentions. She blushed and nodded. Carefully, I lifted the dress and reverently put it on the bed next to me. Bella wore some pretty risqué lingerie and it was fucking hot. The bra was black, white, red, green and purple. It hoisted her breasts perfectly, revealing the most alluring cleavage. Her panties matched her bra and were the incredibly sexy cheeky panties. "Perfection," I whispered as my fingers glided over her pale skin.
"I'm not," she said quietly.
I put my finger underneath her chin. "You are. You're absolutely perfect for me," I said as I kissed her lips tenderly. My mouth moved from hers and I kissed down her neck. At the point where her neck met her shoulder, I inhaled deeply, reveling in her scent: the fragrance of strawberries, vanilla and fresh air. My hands were moving freely over her skin, earning low whimpers from my girl. "Bella, I'm going to show you what it's like to have someone make love to you. I will cherish and love every inch of your body; show you how much you mean to me. You are my absolute everything. The only thing that will take me from you will be death and if I had my way, I'd never die so I could be with you for all eternity. I love you so much, my Bella."
"You really need to stop making me cry," she sniffled.
"Bad tears, yes. Happy tears, keep 'em coming, sweet girl," I said as I brushed my mouth against hers, dragging my tongue along her lips. She tangled her fingers into my hair and something inside of both of us ignited. Our sweet, loving kiss turned into something more. Maneuvering us so Bella was on her back, I licked, nibbled and sucked down her body. I kept her bra and panties on as I teased her with my kisses.
"Edward," she moaned. "I need you, baby."
Baby…
"All in due time, sweet girl," I cooed. I kissed up her belly and reached her breasts. Wrapping my lips around her nipple through the lace and satin, she growled. "Do you want my mouth here?"
"Yes, baby. I want your mouth everywhere," she pleaded.
"Your wish is my command," I purred as I reached behind her, unclasping the sexy bra. "I love this, by the way. Sweet and innocent but so hot at the same time, love." Tossing the bra onto the ground, I wrapped my lips around her dusty pink nipple. Her back arched off the bed, pushing her breast further into my mouth. My hand moved to her other breast, gently tweaking and twisting the erect nub with my thumb and forefinger.
"More, Edward," she begged. I smiled against her skin, kissing across her chest to switch breasts. Her core was pressed against my chest and I could feel how hot she was, not to mention how wet. Bella's hands were pulling on my hair and I moved up, kissing her feverishly. As I kissed my love, I eased her panties down. Bella kicked them off so she was now naked in my arms, save for the jewelry I gave her for Valentine's day.
My fingers inched along her thighs until I reached her sex. "Dear God, you waxed?" I moaned.
"For the outing with your sister, she insisted we go to the spa," Bella laughed. "This was the result…"
"I love my sister," I growled as I sat back, spreading Bella's legs to see her waxed pussy. "Fuck, I need a taste, sweet girl." I bent down, running my tongue along the length of her slit, tasting her succulent flavor. It was enhanced by her bare skin and her arousal. Sliding my tongue in and out of her entrance, I lapped up her juices like it was the last drops of water and I was dying of thirst.
"Edward, I want to feel you," she begged. "Please…"
"Don't beg, sweet girl," I said as I pressed one more kiss to her sex. "I want to feel you, too." Sitting up, I unbuckled my belt. Bella's fingers worked on my buttons of my jeans. She looked up at me when she saw that I had neglected to put on boxers. "What? I'm eager to be inside of you. One less layer."
"Good," she said, her eyes taking on a predatory gleam. "Off. Take the pants off."
"Yes, ma'am," I said as I kicked off my pants, naked with my girl. I crawled up her body and held her tightly as we kissed each other. There was no hurry, just love, soft kisses and tender caresses.
"Edward, I'm ready," she whispered. "I want you."
"I want you, too, my Bella. Please let me know if I hurt you," I said as I took her beautiful face in my hands. She smiled and nodded. I kissed her mouth and rolled us so she was on her back. My hands were gliding along her skin until I reached the apex of her thighs. I wanted to make sure she was wet enough. If I was the second sexual experience she's ever had, it'll probably be somewhat painful for her. Not as painful as losing her virginity, but some discomfort. I looked up at her and her eyes were radiating love. Hopefully, just like mine. "I love you, Bella. I may not have been your first but hopefully, I'll be your last."
She smiled and a tear fell down her cheek. I kissed the tear away and positioned the head of my cock at her entrance. This is it. Guiding my erection inside of her, I pushed gently. Bella gasped. "Are you okay?"
"Fine," she whispered. "You're big." I smirked. I was bigger than the average male. I didn't want to hurt her, though. "Keep going, Edward. Please?" Leaning forward, I kissed her lips as I pulled back slightly. Then, I pushed forward again and I was able to fully sheath myself in Bella's body. Holy Moses…she's so tight. "So, good," she moaned. "I love you, Edward."
"My Bella," I breathed as I began thrusting slowly in and out of her. "Love doesn't even begin to describe what I feel for you." She let out a strangled sob as I kissed her, cupping her face with my right hand. My left hand was holding my body above hers as I moved languidly inside of my girl. Never in all of my experiences had I felt such depth of emotion and love in the act of sex as I did with Bella. I now understood what it meant to make love as opposed to having sex or fucking. I wanted to make love to her forever. I never wanted to leave the warmth of her pussy. Honestly, I never wanted to be without her. Period.
"Edward," her soft voice called, breaking me from my reverie. "More. I need to feel more of you. Please?"
God, the 'please?' Her soft pleading woke something up in me and I pulled back. I grabbed her legs and put them over my shoulders as I sat back, thrusting my hips against hers. My balls were smacking the warm skin of her ass as I thrusted my erection inside of her. I could feel her muscles flutter around me. She moved with me. However, her legs dropped off my shoulders and she let out a guttural scream, pushing me out of her body. Her arousal gushed all around us, coating our legs. I blinked a few times before I realized what happened. Bella was still twitching, breathing heavily. She looked up at me, smiling seductively. She noticed I was still hard and she reached for my cock, guiding it back to her soaked folds. I eased in and within a few moments, we both reached our climax. I spilled inside of my girl as she clamped down around my cock, screaming my name. I kept thrusting until my cock softened and slipped out of her body.
We were covered in sweat and our respective releases. "Don't move," I said as I kissed her lips. She nodded. I hopped off the bed and started a bath for both of us. I lit a few candles in the bathroom and gathered some fresh towels from the linen closet. I walked back to the bedroom and saw that Bella hadn't moved. She was still breathing heavily, her pale skin glistening from our combined sweat and her arousal. "Arms around my neck, sweet girl," I said as I leaned down.
"No, I can walk," she said.
"I want to carry you," I said as I put her arms around my neck. Carefully, I swept her in my arms, carrying her bridal style to the bathroom. I placed into the tub and climbed in after her. The water was filling up and it was very relaxing to sit with my girl. She was cuddled with her back against my chest. Her fingers were idly tracing circles on my thighs which were on either side of her body. "So…"
"So…" she giggled.
"Improvement from your first time?" I asked as I moved her hair over her shoulder, kissing her neck. She didn't answer. I faintly heard sniffles over the water. "Bella? Shit, I didn't mean to make you cry."
"No, I'm fine," she said as she turned to look at me. "It was everything that I had ever dreamed of, Edward. You were tender, gentle, loving and fucking hot at the same time."
"Then, why are you crying?" I asked as I wiped her tears away.
"I wish you were my first," she said, staring at me. "I regret what happened between Jacob and me and I wish it could have been you."
"I wish my first time was with you, too, Bella. Tonight, I finally realized what it felt like to make love. You are the ONLY woman I've ever made love to. You will be the only woman I'll make love to. I said it before and I'll say it again. I may not have been your first, but I'm hopefully your last," I said as I gathered in my arms.
"Like you want to marry me?" she whispered against my shoulder.
"In a heartbeat, Bella," I said. "Would you marry me?"
"Is that a proposal?" she asked.
"No. It's a hypothetical. When I do propose, you'll know. It will not be in a bathtub while we're naked," I chuckled. "Seriously, though."
"If and when you do propose, for real, I will say yes," she said as she tightened her hold around my neck.
"Good. Because you are my future, Bella. Mrs. Cullen," I quipped. I felt her smile against my shoulder. "You like that?" She nodded. "I like it, too."
We stayed in the water until it turned tepid and we were quite pruney. We dried off and went back into the bedroom. Bella frowned when she saw the aftermath of our coupling. I kissed her forehead and stripped the comforter, putting on a fresh one. She glowered at me and said that she'd pay for the cleaning. I waved it off and we got into bed. Not bothering to put on pajamas, we fell asleep quickly.
xx APFL xx
The week following our first time together, Bella and I became insatiable for each other. Whenever we had a spare moment away from the hospital, we were making love. It made for some very light nights (or early mornings) and two very sexually satisfied people who were exhausted. Unfortunately, tonight was the dinner for my brother's graduation. Bella and I had to go directly from the hospital and neither one of us was happy about it. We wanted to sleep. Not make love. Not fool around. Sleep.
Instead of sleeping, we were going to this restaurant to eat expensive supermodel food. I had just finished showering in my office and was changing into my charcoal gray suit. Bella was getting some help from Alice in the staff lounge. I was shocked that Alice offered to help since it was her ex-boyfriend that we were going out to dinner with. However, Alice being Alice said that she was fine and that she wanted to show Jasper that Bella is worthy of being on my arm. I was tying my tie when I heard a quiet knock on my door. "It's open," I called out.
"You ready to see your amazing girlfriend, Dr. Cullen?" Alice asked.
"She's amazing in scrubs as she is in the fanciest gown," I said, flashing her my signature grin.
"You are so whipped, Cullen," Bella laughed from the hallway. "Alice, let me in." Alice rolled her eyes and opened the door all the way. Standing on the other side of the door was a vision. Bella was wearing a wrap dress with a white, red and burgundy pattern on it. Her jewelry was simple and it matched the burgundy in her dress. Her hair was pinned back and curled over her shoulders. The best part though were the shoes. On her sexy feet were a pair of black peep toe heels that displayed her red toenails. "Is this appropriate for the restaurant?"
"Oh yeah," I said as I wiped the drool from my face. "Did you follow my rule?"
"What rule?" Alice asked.
"It's nothing, Ali," Bella said, shooting me a look. I smiled wickedly and snuck behind my girl, copping a feel of her ass. I felt no panty lines and I was pleased. Bella smacked my hand, pointing her finger at me. "Behave."
"Yes, love," I said as I kissed her fingertip.
"You guys are hiding something," Alice admonished.
"No, we're not," we both responded.
"Whatever. Have fun and I'll see you both tomorrow. Who's on first?"
"I'm on at noon," Bella replied. "Edward comes in at four."
"Good, I get to dish with one of you before I leave," she smirked. "See you tomorrow, Bella. Bye, Edward." She hugged my girl and ran off to the circulation desk.
"Ready, sweet girl?" I asked as I twined my fingers with hers.
"No. I'm tired and cranky," she frowned. "I just want to sleep. Can't we just say that we had an emergency and go home, to sleep?"
"I would love to, but since my dad works in this very same hospital, he'll know we're lying," I chuckled. "However, as soon as we're done, we'll go back to your place and crash. Well, cuddle and then crash."
"Just cuddling. I'm surprised I'm able to walk, Cullen," she snorted. "You've got a log between your legs, stud."
"I've heard it being referenced as wood but a log? Jesus, Bella," I laughed. I kissed her neck. "I love you, baby. You always keep me on my toes and it makes me happy. You make me so incredibly happy."
"You make me happy, too, Edward," she said. I kissed her sweetly and walked her to my car. As I closed the car door, I heard something in the garage. I looked around but didn't see anything. I made sure I had the sharp end of my key poking between my fingers as I walked to the driver's side. Sliding into the seat, I started the car, keeping my eyes peeled for anything out of the ordinary. "Everything okay, Edward?"
"I heard something in the garage. It's probably nothing but I got a little spooked," I said. "I'm thinking tomorrow I'm going to pick up a can of pepper spray for you. Just in case, you know?"
"Edward, I've lived in this city all of my life. Apart from the run-in with my dad, I haven't had anything happen to me," she said.
"Humor me, Bella. You are the most important person in my life and if anything happened to you, baby, I don't know what I'd do," I said as I cupped her cheek. She nodded and kissed the palm of my hand. I drove quickly to the restaurant, using the valet to park the car. Standing outside was Rose and Emmett. Rose was wearing a black dress with some paisley print on it. Emmett was in a suit. A SUIT! "You clean up good, McCarty."
"I've been known to put on a suit, Cullen," he quipped. "Besides, this was important to Rose. I wanted to look nice for her."
"And you do," she said, looking up at Emmett shyly. "Thank you, Emmett." She wrapped her hands around his beefy arm. "And thank you for being here."
"Anything for you, Rose," he replied, kissing her cheek. "You both look nice, too. Bella, you're body is definitely changing."
"I'm down eighteen pounds," she said proudly. "This dress is a missy size. Not plus size. I'm excited."
"As well you should be," I smiled. "You looked amazing before but now you're even sexier." Rose rolled her eyes and grabbed Bella's hand. They headed inside while Emmett smirked at me. "What?"
"You had sex," he said.
"So?" I chuckled.
"Good. I'm glad. You and Bella are perfect for each other," Emmett smiled. "She's an amazing girl."
"She is. She's my everything, Emmett," I breathed as we walked up the stairs. "And I'm glad we waited to make love. It made it special…" He nodded and smiled at me. Though, there was a sadness in his eyes. "What is it, Emmett?"
"I think I love your sister," he murmured. "Wait, I know I love her. But, she's keeping me at arm's length, man. I get it. I do. My older sister was sexually assaulted when she was in college and it took forever her to feel 'clean' again. I think it's more than that with Rose. Like she's not telling me something, you know?"
"That's a conversation you need to have with Rose, Emmett," I said. "She's still healing. In addition to healing, she's also trying to overcome her fears of men, of Royce getting out, of her future. Talk to her. And don't be afraid to raise these topics. I love my sister but she's tired of being handled with kid gloves. She feels stifled by my parents and you, me, and Bella are really the only ones who make her feel 'normal.'"
"So keep doing what I'm doing and be patient?" Emmett asked.
"Pretty much, Em," I said. "But, talk to her. We chatted briefly last weekend about you."
"What did she say?"
"Talk to her," I reiterated.
"Edward! Emmett!" called my mom. "Come join us."
"Sure, Mrs. Cullen," Emmett smiled. We joined my parents, Jasper, Bella and Rosalie in a private dining room. Rose stood next to Emmett, twining her fingers with his. My parents smiled at the show of affection toward Emmett. So did I.
I walked to Bella's side, kissing her temple. "Everything okay, love?" She smiled tightly and nodded. "Bella?"
"I'm fine," she said as she kissed my lips softly.
"Did he say something to you? If he did, we'll leave," I said as looked at her. "We came as a courtesy but if he can't…"
"Edward, Bella, what are you two hissing about?" Carlisle asked.
"Nothing, Carlisle," Bella said, giving him a smile. "Just talking about work and a trying case from earlier today."
"Yeah. A man came in with a headache and it turns out that it's a massive tumor on his brainstem," I said. "Prognosis doesn't look good."
"I can imagine," Carlisle said as he led us to the table. "You both missed a wonderful ceremony."
"Yeah, I wished my older brother could have been at my graduation ceremony. I was at his," Jasper said bitterly.
"Jasper, Edward had to work," Esme chided. "And you said you'd behave."
"Sorry," he mumbled petulantly.
"We can just end this right now," Carlisle said sternly. "You knew that Edward had to work, but you wanted to include him in your day. So, we arranged for dinner to accommodate his and Bella's schedule." Jasper rolled his eyes at Bella's name.
"Jasper, a word?" I asked, my temper barely in check.
"Why don't we order," Rose suggested. "Bella, what are you having?"
Jasper got up and we walked toward the men's room. He was shuffling his feet, lollygagging behind me. "Do you not get it? Jasper, really, are you that dumb?" I snarled.
"No, I'm not that dumb," he retorted. "I just received my doctorate in history. However, my big brother was too busy banging his girlfriend to even fucking care. His fat girlfriend."
"Who are you?" I asked, shocked at his behavior. "The Jasper I knew actually had a heart and cared about people. The ass in front of me is nothing but a coward and bigot. Bella is nothing but a wonderful woman with a big heart, loving soul and she's beautiful everywhere."
"She's got a big ass," Jasper chuckled.
"Nothing changed, Jasper. I'm ashamed to be your brother right now," I hissed. "What did you say to her?"
"I complimented her on her dress. I said that if it were any brighter, she'd be traffic signal," he laughed. "However, she's a big girl. She can pull off a big pattern like that. Makes her hard to miss."
"Fuck you, Jasper. I'm done. I'm so done," I snapped. I turned on my heel and walked to the dining room. Bella was sitting in her chair, staring off into space like a robot. "Bella, come on, love. We're going home."
"But, Edward," Esme frowned.
"No, Jasper hasn't changed. He's not appreciative of the fact that we came and he's still treating my girl like she's a second class citizen," I spat.
"If she was a second class citizen, she'd be thinner," Jasper slurred.
"Jasper!" Esme and Carlisle yelled.
Bella was crying silently. "I love you, Bella. After tonight, you won't have to see him, baby," I said against her hair. "You're so much better than him."
"I don't see it, Mom. What does she have that makes her so special?" asked Jasper.
"A heart," Rose answered.
"Compassion," Emmett replied.
"She's brilliant and thinks on her feet," Carlisle offered.
"She's made your brother happy," Esme said, glowering at my brother.
"I love her and she's my world, Jas. But, you're so self-centered that you can't see that," I said as I guided her out of the dining room.
"Jasper, I feel sorry for you," Bella whispered. "You have a family who loves you and because of your prejudice of me, you're throwing it away. I hope you can finally realize what you're missing before it's too late. You've already lost Alice. Are you ready to lose your family, too?" She turned and hugged my mom and sister. "I'm sorry about all of this."
"It's not your fault, Bella," Esme cooed. "The next time you get together with Rose, I want to join you. Have some mother/daughter bonding, okay?"
"Mother/daughter?" Bella asked.
"From the way my son looks at you, you'll be my daughter soon enough," Esme chuckled, brushing Bella's hair back. "Rose can share."
"Definitely. I've always wanted a sister," Rose replied, kissing Bella's cheek. "Love you, sis."
"Love you, too," Bella said, hugging Rosalie.
I kissed and hugged my mom and sister before leaving the restaurant. Jasper was completely flummoxed as my parents decided to leave as well. What did we have to do in order to get him to understand that Bella was around to stay. On the drive back to Bella's apartment, we stopped by a local pizza joint, picking up a pie to go. We devoured half of it, putting the rest away in the fridge.
As we were getting ready for bed, I noticed that Bella was abnormally quiet. I slipped behind her, wrapping my arms around her waist. "Talk to me, sweet girl."
"I'm fine, Edward," she said, looking at me in the mirror. "Just processing, you know?"
"I do," I said.
"But, one thing confuses me," she said. "He seemed okay with me at the ball in February but he just couldn't see past this. Past my weight. I don't understand why…"
"I don't either, Bella. I thought he was okay with us after the ball, as well. Clearly, he's not and it's now alienating him from his family," I said as I nuzzled her hair.
"Am I worth it?" she asked, dropping her gaze to the counter.
I turned her around, picked her up and sat her on the granite. "Bella, you are more than worth it. My family believes it. I believe it and I thought you believed it too," I said firmly.
"I do. But, he's your brother, Edward," she replied.
"And you're my life," I countered. "Bella, you're my other half. I can't imagine being with you, sweet girl. Every step, I want to share it with you. Yes, he's my brother. Hopefully, he'll pull his head out of his ass or he'll be one lonely mother fucker."
"If he fucks your mom, that's kind of gross," Bella laughed.
"It is and that's a visual I didn't need at this moment, Bella. Thanks," I said dryly. "Do you want to know how I can get rid of it?"
"How?"
"Hmmm, I do believe I owe you three orgasms and a massage, right?" I replied, tapping my finger to my lips.
"Right," she said, drawing out the vowel.
"I also said that one of those orgasms would be at dinner and I didn't get a chance to do that, so…"
"Oh," she said. "OH!"
"How do you want it? Fingers, tongue or cock?" I asked, putting my hands on my hips.
"Even though I'm exhausted and emotionally drained, I can't seem to get enough of this," she purred, cupping my dick with her hand.
"Say it and it's yours," I replied.
"I want your…cock," she said, blushing furiously.
"Game on, Swan."
A/N: This was a beast…it took on a life of its own, grew horns, wings and fluffy tail. It had it all: citrus, humor, drama, angst, all wrapped up in 9500 words. Anyhow, lots of stuff going on. I'd love to hear your theories on Jasper, Jacob, James and Charlie…(yep, we've got four antagonists, but one will end up being a good guy. Which one, though?) Up next will be the 'mother/daughter bonding' with Rose, Bella and Esme. Plus, some building drama involving Jacob and possibly a clue on who bailed out Charlie. As always, teasers are on my blog. I've got the pictures from the disastrous dinner, to the bouquet Edward gave Bella on their date and such. Link for that is on my profile. Extra teasers are posted on my Facebook page: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation and on my twitter: tufano79. Leave me some!