Innocent Until Proven Guilty Chapter 39
On the sixth day since we came back, Edward surprised me with date night.
I had spent the day studying whilst Edward had gone to the warehouse. Work never seemed to cease for him lately and with the decision to open up a new club, he was busier than ever.
I only have my liquor license left to apply for and the questions on the course were endless. I was getting more and more excited about finally starting to work. I was eager to immerse myself in the club and hopefully organize an event once Edward will give me full reign.
I've brought up the idea with Alice and Rose whilst we FaceTimed and they were both excited to help me come up with something. I was currently leaning towards a masquerade-themed event and I already had ideas in mind in ways to advertise it.
My phone pinged with a text message. I smiled as I saw Edward's name pop up.
What are you wearing? -E
I was in a basic t-shirt dress and his white gym socks but I wanted to play with him a little.
Absolutely nothing *winking emoji face*-B
Let me see -E
I laughed at his predictable response and quickly took the dress off and slipped the panties off as well as the socks. It felt strange being completely naked on the couch without him.
I snapped a picture of myself, cropping most of my face out so all he could see was me biting my bottom lip and my naked body.
Fuck. -E
God, I wished we could do that. It's only been a day but I've held up on my word and didn't dare try anything else remotely sexual with him. I could see how frustrated he was but with the way I unintentionally hurt him whilst I climaxed, I simply was not going to risk it.
Just 4 more days and we can do just that. -B
Fuck. -E
He said again and I laughed at my poor husband. He tried many times the night before as well as this morning to convince me we shouldn't wait until the doctor checks him over because he feels just fine. However, he's not as slick as he thinks he is. I watch him like a hawk and I see the discomfort on his face if he sits still for too long, or if he gets up too quickly and every morning when he gets out of bed. The wound might have healed nicely already on the outside, but that didn't mean he wasn't in any pain.
Are you done at the warehouse? -B
Not yet, I'll be home by 6. -E
You better be taking it easy baby, I don't want any setbacks. -B
I am, I promise. Don't worry about dinner, I want to show my wife off tonight. Meet me downstairs at 6 -E
A warmth spread through me as I read his text. I can't say we've been on many dates since we got together due to Felix and Hunter. This was a very cherished surprise.
Does your wife get to know where you're taking her? -B
It's a surprise. Wear something comfortable, we'll be on our feet most of the time. I love you Mrs. Cullen -E
Ditto, Mr. Cullen -B
I squealed with excitement as I shut the laptop down and ran into the bedroom to see what I could wear for tonight. We were surprisingly getting nice weather this late into fall so as I scanned through my clothes, I decided on a floral swing dress and paired it with an oversized chunky knit sweater. The dress just barely peeks out from under the sweater and it added just a bit of color to the outfit. I then fished out my low heel, over the knee nude boots, and found a purse to match.
I quickly threw the outfit on to see if I definitely liked it and I was pleased with the reflection staring back at me.
My hair was a knotted mess -no surprise there- so I stripped out of my outfit and rushed into the shower. It was already 4.30 PM and I didn't have much time left.
I quickly washed my hair and even turned the jets on in the walls so I could get a massage whilst I wait for my conditioner to do its job. I let the pressure of the water relax me as I recalled the other night's activities. He seemed to have gotten extremely turned on when I told him what to do. Images of tying his hands up to the headboard sent a pleasant shiver down my spine.
The possibilities were endless once he gets his stitches out.
After rinsing my hair out, I stepped out of the shower and wrapped a soft towel around my body before stepping back into the bedroom. The penthouse is too quiet without him, so I connected my music to the inhouse sound system and Usher's Trading Places comes on over the speakers.
I listened intently to the lyrics and an idea came to mind of trading places with Edward. I'd be the one to come and pick him up for a date. I'd be the one to drive us somewhere, pay for our dinner, pay for his drinks. Bring him back home and do unimaginable things to his body. Set his soul alight the way he sets mine.
I danced whilst I got ready and before I knew it, it was time to head down and meet my husband. I quickly packed my purse with essentials and made sure the lights were off before I stepped into the waiting elevator.
My excitement was still palpable and once the elevator doors opened, I was met by my sexy as hell husband. He's dressed in slim fitted grey slacks and a white shirt that hugged every part of his magnificent body. He's smirking at me with that crooked smile of his as he stands, leaning against the wall with his hands in his pockets.
He takes my breath away and I take a moment to collect myself before I made my way over to him.
"Where have you been all my life Mrs. Cullen?" he says as I step in front of him.
"Right here baby," my voice is all breathy as I become intoxicated by his scent.
I seriously need to bottle that shit.
"You look absolutely beautiful. Are you ready?" he asks.
"Thank you. Yes, I'm definitely ready," if my smile gets any bigger, I was positive it was going to split my face.
He leans in and gives me a quick kiss before wrapping his arm around my shoulders and leading me out of the building and towards the Escalade. We quickly hop in and then we're off.
"Will you tell me where we're going?" I try my luck again.
"Patients Isabella. You'll see shortly," he looked so relaxed as he had one hand on the wheel and the other resting on my knee.
It didn't take us long to reach our destination and I was definitely surprised to see we ended up at Navy Pier. My high school friends and I used to come here all the time and I haven't been back in years.
"We have a reservation at Riva, by the time we've had dinner, the firework show will start," he gazed lovingly at me as he tucked a loose strand of hair behind my ear.
"Baby this is amazing!" I squealed with excitement as I threw my arms around his neck and planted my lips on his. I could hear people chuckling around us but I didn't care.
We held hands as we walked down the pier. It looked like a lot of other couples had the same idea as they milled in and out of the restaurants and cafés. There was absolutely nothing in the world that could wipe the smile off my face right now.
There were obviously people who had given us a wide berth as they did a double-take once they recognized Edward. He simply carried on looking forward like he didn't see any of them.
"I hope one day I'll get used to all the staring," I say to him as I wrap my hands around his arm and step closer to him.
"You eventually no longer notice them. It unnerved me at first and it took me a while to at least relax my features so it didn't look like I was scowling at them," he says and kisses my forehead as we stop outside Riva.
Once we were seated, it didn't take long for our food to arrive. We spoke about anything and everything as we shared both of our orders. I told him about my masquerade idea at the club and he was all for it. He told me he finally spoke to a realtor about finding a space for the new club and there was a glint in his eyes that told me he wasn't revealing everything about that talk.
I dropped it, for now, knowing he will eventually tell me.
The sun had long set by the time we stepped back out onto the pier and made our way up to where the firework display will take place. There was already a crowd of people who had gathered around for the best spot and I tried not to laugh as Edward pushed his way through the crowd to get us to the front. I tried to at least look sheepish about it but just like earlier, people just gave us a wide berth as soon as they looked at us.
My front was pressed up against the railing and Edward stood behind me. There was a buzz of excitement all around us as someone announced the display will begin shortly. I turned back to look at Edward and found his eyes sparkling as he looked down at me. My heart once again swelled with my love for him and I snuggled back into him. He tightened his arms around me and I slowly turned his wedding ring around and enjoyed this blissful night.
I felt him tug on the end of my hair and when I leaned my head back to look at him, he leaned down and kissed me. I sighed into the kiss as he deepened it, moving one hand to the nape of my neck, and the other splayed out on my stomach. I felt the all familiar tightening in my stomach as our tongues danced.
It was only when people started cheering that I realized the firework show had started. I didn't care at that moment as he was setting fireworks off inside my heart. I'd never felt happier than I did right then and that's all because of him.
All I needed was my Edward by my side.
On the seventh day since we came back, we had a visit from Detectives Jacob Black and Embry Call.
The visit I was dreading the most.
Both Edward and Carlisle had prepped me for this but it doesn't mean I was still comfortable with having them in our home.
Both men were tall and looked to be Native Americans with their darker complexions and jet-black hair. Seth had called Edward as soon as both men stepped out of their car. I was wringing my hands together trying to calm my nerves as I waited for their arrival.
Edward was sat on the sofa, immersed in a football game, relaxed as ever. I wanted to throw something at him so he could match my apprehension.
This was way out of my league.
"If you keep biting your lip like that, you're going to make it bleed angel," he said to me whilst still watching the game.
"How do you-"
"The TV is reflective. I'm always watching Bella. Now you need to calm down," his voice was gentle as he tried to project his calm onto me.
I took a couple of deep breaths but nearly jumped when the elevator announced their arrival. There was a look of surprise on both of their faces when I was the one to greet them.
"Miss. Swan, my name is-"
"It's Mrs. Cullen," I interrupted before one of them could introduce themselves.
"My apologies. My name is Detective Jacob Black and this is my partner Detective Embry Call, we're here to discuss the shooting that took place at the hotel you were staying at in Vegas," Black said as he unbuttoned his jacket and took out a small notepad and pen.
"Your ID gentlemen?" I asked before they could step any further. Call scowled at me whilst Black fumbled with his inside jacket pocket before they both produced their badges.
"Baby who's that?" Edward called out like he hadn't been listening. I tried hard to hold in my snort.
"The Detectives are here to speak to us about Vegas," I called back over the TV. The volume lowered and I turned to watch Edward stroll over to us.
"What can we do for you gentlemen?" Edward asked nonchalantly as he wrapped his arm around my back and drew me in closer. His thumb rubbing soothing circles on my exposed skin. I was dressed in a crop top and grey sweats as we were just lounging around today. I had wanted to change but Edward told me it would look like we were waiting for them if I'd suddenly dressed up.
We had to make them believe they have taken us by surprise.
"We have some questions for you both, mind if we take a seat? This won't take long," Black said again. I take it he was playing good cop today because Call had yet to say anything.
I had nodded and turned to walk over to the couch, my eyes darted up to the TV and I saw how all three men had their eyes on my ass. It really was reflective.
Edward and I took the sofa whilst Black took one of the armchairs and Call stood beside the window, overlooking the city. I caught Edward eyeing him and his eyebrows knitted together. I took a mental note to ask him about it later.
"Would you guys like a drink?" I asked and stood us they all said yes.
As I walked over to the kitchen, Black started his questions.
"We have evidence that you and your wife were staying at the Bellagio whilst you were out there for Mr. Whitlock's wedding is that correct?" Black asked.
"Yes, we stayed there for a couple of nights," Edward confirmed.
I walked back over to them and handed the detectives a glass of water each and a bottle of beer for Edward as requested.
"We have footage of you being at the casino the night of the shooting," he went on to say.
"Yes, we thought we'd spend some money whilst we were out there," I was trying to figure out where they were going with these questions.
"We also have footage of a James Hunter who looked like he had a great interest in you and your wife Mr. Cullen. He was the one who had started shooting. Were you aware of that?" Call finally spoke.
"There were a lot of men who took an interest in my wife that night Detective. But James Hunter and I grew up together, however, I haven't seen or heard from him since I graduated," Edward was quick to respond.
I caught the detective share a look before Black took over again.
"Any particular reason why Mr. Hunter was so interested in you? Has there been some rivalry between you? Mrs. Cullen, do you have a history with Mr. Hunter?" Black asked and I knew what he was implying.
"No, I've never met him. Couldn't even tell you what he looks like, to be honest," my heart was racing but I kept my voice calm.
"You didn't see his face as he opened fire in your direction?" Call piped up again.
"I heard a gunshot Detective Call, my instant reaction was to duck, not look at who fired the shot," what the hell was his problem?
"Of course," Black tried to diffuse the sudden change in atmosphere.
"Unfortunately, it looks like he had shot and hit one of the cameras that would have helped us piece together more information. We have witnesses that claim there was a second shooter but we have no sight or any other information about him or her, plus there were no other bullets found from a second gun. Do you maybe remember seeing anyone else that night? Anyone that looked suspicious?" Black asked as his eyes darted between Edward and me.
I shook my head no whilst Edward voiced his response.
"Mr. Cullen, we've been informed that you were shot that night. Can you tell us what happened?" Call almost sneered at Edward and I wanted to know what the fuck was the deal with him.
"We were by the bar just having a few drinks when the shots rang out, I fell on top of Isabella to shield her from it. It was once we started making our way back to our hotel room that Isabella told me I was bleeding. I guess the adrenaline from it all had masked everything," he was as cool as a cucumber as he retold the story.
There was a beat of silence in the room. I could still feel the scowls coming from Call but I kept my eyes on Black, who couldn't stop looking at my chest.
"If that will be all gentlemen…" Edward trailed off, there was an edge to his tone this time as his gaze was fixed on Black.
"Yes of course. Here is my card in case you think of anything else you'd like to share with us. We thank you for your time," Black rose and handed me his card but Edward took it instead. With a final nod from Black, he motioned for his partner to follow him.
Edward and I walked them back over to the elevator and I shook their hands before they stepped inside the metal box.
"Thank you for your time," Black said but only addressed me.
Edward wrapped his arms around me and brought me in closer to him whilst we watched the elevator doors close.
I let out a huge breath and Edward kissed the side of my head whilst we stood in the foyer.
"Well that went well," he smirked and palmed my ass.
On the eighth day since we came back, our parents had turned up at the penthouse for dinner, uninvited I might add, but always welcome.
Edward and I had spent the day teasing each other with subtle glances and gentle touches and pretty much drove each other crazy with desire. I kept chanting "just two more days" in my head like a prayer but it was getting ridiculously harder and harder not to pounce him.
I was definitely starting to regret my stupid rule. We were both sneaking around and getting off in the shower and more than once did I wonder why we couldn't just do it to each other.
I was desperate for his touch and he knew just what buttons to push with me to get me all worked up.
When I got up that morning, I found him shirtless, in his grey basketball shorts, on the floor, doing sit-ups. I very nearly face planted the floor when I stopped to stare at him. I was mesmerized by the way his muscles rolled through his body. Sweat dripped down his face and onto his naked chest. My desire to lick him greater than ever.
He was healing really well and no longer took pain killers. I even noticed he no longer grimaced when he moved. I so desperately wanted to just strip him down and take what I've been craving but I also wanted to hold strong.
Right now, it felt like I had to prove something to myself. Show that I have actual self-control.
But like a scaredy-cat, I ran into the bathroom and reacquainted myself with the detachable showerhead…if you get my drift.
Of course, Edward was completely shameless and I near enough jumped out of my own skin once I climaxed and found him standing in the doorway, watching me. His eyes were dark with desire and his shorts were tented. I gasped when he slid said shorts off and walked into the shower with me, stroking himself with each step.
I couldn't take my eyes away from his hand pumping him, wanting more than anything to do it for him. My mouth watered and my arousal skyrocketed once more as he moved closer to me. He reached behind my back and turned the shower temperature down to almost cold. I jumped out of the way of the spray and he laughed whilst we swapped places.
"You don't play fair," I panted.
"Who said anything about playing? This was your idea after all. All you have to do is ask Isabella," my name rolled off his tongue and my breath caught in my throat.
There was no way in hell I was going to survive this.
I took in one huge breath and stepped out of the shower. Blindly reaching for the towel and wrapping it around me. My eyes never left his cock as I walked back into the bedroom. I licked my lips and heard him groan as he threw his head back in pleasure. I caught the way his cock twitched in his hand and I could tell he was close.
His stomach tightened, accentuating the muscles he worked out not long ago. My palms were itching to feel that. I unknowingly palmed my breast as my nipples had gotten painfully hard from watching the free show.
His eyes were suddenly back on me as my name fell from his lips and I watched as streams of his cum landed on the shower floor, getting washed away with the water.
We've gotten off in front of each other before as foreplay but we would always end up being connected in the end. Watching him come undone and calling my name out like that had to be the hottest thing I think I have ever seen him do. And it killed me that he wouldn't bury his cock deep inside me.
And hence the start of this game we played for the rest of the day.
I was seconds away from caving when we were informed our parents were downstairs. Edward quickly took his hands out from under the simple cotton bodycon dress I had put on today and gave my ass one long squeeze before he walked over to the elevator. I once again had to calm my breathing as I made my way over to him so we could both greet our parents.
I happen to glance down and noticed that his sweats were bulging and watched as he tucked his erection into the waistband just as the elevator doors opened.
We all stood there, frozen for a second, with confused looks from my parents and Esme and a smirk from Carlisle at how flustered we both must have looked.
"I hope we're not interrupting anything," Carlisle said and I watched Charlie shoot daggers at him before turning his blazing eyes to Edward.
"Not at all, we were just going over some paperwork. We weren't expecting visitors…that's all," Edward quickly covered for us and he wasn't lying. We genuinely were looking at the club's paperwork before our hands started roaming like they always did.
"It's so great to see you guys!" I gushed and stepped forward to hug both my mother and Esme who stood close together, before moving over to dad and Carlisle. For a second, I thought dad wasn't going to let me go when he enveloped me in his arms. It felt almost foreign with how much affection he was giving me. Carlisle's embrace was much the same but I was somehow more used to it coming from him.
I watched a silent conversation transpire between Edward and Esme as she asked him if he was ok and he replied with a curt nod and a kiss on her cheek as she walked further into the apartment.
My parents didn't know what had happened in Vegas and we wanted to keep it that way.
"So, what bring you guys over?" Edward asked once we had all sat down in the lounge.
"We thought we'd come over for dinner and see how our kids are doing," dad said as he glanced between Edward and me, lingering on how I pretty much sat on Edward's lap.
"I wish you'd told me! I could have prepared something," I groaned as everyone chuckled at me.
"That's why we're here sweetheart," my mom said and the shock on my face was evident. I can't recall the last time my mom had cooked anything.
"Mom you're going to cook?" I asked incredulously.
"Well I was hoping I could pour the wine whilst I observe…of course," there was a twinkle in her eyes I had long forgotten what it looked like as she beamed at me. Esme laughed, patting mom on the knee and nodding.
"Great! I'm sure we have everything for a lasagne if that is ok with everyone?" I asked as I looked around the room. There were appreciative nods from the parental units and a tender kiss on my temple from Edward.
"I think that's a yes angel," he said against the side of my head as his lips lingered there.
"Right, let's get started then. Gentlemen, would you like a drink?" it felt so natural to host for everyone, even if it was unexpected.
All three men requested a scotch and I made my way over to the bar area and poured out their drinks whilst mom and Esme raided our fridge for the wine.
"Edward darling, why is your phone in the refrigerator?" Esme asked whilst trying not to giggle. I almost growled at that thing as it rang in her hand.
"Bella has rules about dinner time and phones, I wasn't aware she stashed it inside the fridge though," he smirked as he made his way over to his mother and plucked it out of her hand.
"You even think about answering that and I swear I won't touch-" but I stopped myself as I realized, we weren't alone. And what I wanted to say, should not be heard by our parents.
My silly husband held his hands up in surrender whilst that evil phone dangled between his talented fingers and smirked at me as he made his way back to where our dads sat. I continued to grumble under my breath as I brought their drinks over and squealed when Edward grabbed me by the waist and planted me down onto his lap. He wrapped his arms tightly around me and nuzzled my neck in apology. I melted into his touch and all was forgotten.
Once I was back in the kitchen, Esme had all the ingredients out for the lasagne. Mom was actually chopping vegetables for the salad whilst Esme began to prep the meat and I took over with the pasta sheets.
"So, how's married life treating you, sweetie?" Mom asked as she popped a cherry tomato into her mouth. I was still trying to familiarise myself with the woman in front of me. The last time I had seen her so relaxed was when I was a little girl. I had a feeling that her behavior had a lot to do with Esme.
"It's…just the best mom. I can't even tell you how happy he makes me. I feel like since we got back from Vegas, we haven't left each other's side. The honeymoon phase is as strong as ever," I joked and watched my mom's eyebrows knit together.
"You were in Vegas? I heard there was a shooting at the Bellagio not long ago, I hope you two weren't staying there!" she suddenly said. I noticed Edward and Carlisle glance over quickly before they went back to their conversation.
"No mom, we stayed at Edward's uncle's hotel. We were already home by the time that shooting happened," it felt easier to lie to her than it did the detectives. But that was only because I was protecting my parents. They definitely didn't need to get wrapped up in this.
"I'll toast to that," she said as she held her wine glass out to Esme and me.
Esme then expertly changed the conversation about an upcoming charity event my mom was helping with and Vegas was all forgotten.
I was putting garlic butter on the fresh loaf when mom excused herself to use the bathroom.
"How is he really?" Esme quickly asked as she glanced over at Edward. He was currently laughing at whatever my dad was saying and I automatically smiled.
"He is genuinely getting better by the day. He's no longer wincing when he moves and this morning, he even did a light workout. We're- I mean he's really just looking forward to getting his stitches out," I quickly said and tried to avoid looking at her when she snorted slightly.
"I was there in that room when the doctor said what he did when he discharged him. There's no need for you to be embarrassed sweetheart. You definitely have more willpower than I do that's for sure," she laughed as my mom came back into the room.
"What did I miss?" she asked as she took her seat at the breakfast bar and took another sip of her wine.
"It seems our lovely children are abstaining from sex," Esme said and I groaned, wanting the ground to open and swallow me whole.
"Why on earth would you do that? Have you seen your husband Isabella?" both of the mothers started laughing and I willed Edward to come to my rescue and take me away from them.
"Mom please don't! I'm sure Esme doesn't need to hear about her son's sex life any more than you do about mine!" I groaned and cursed Edward in my head for not rescuing me. I almost picked up a cherry tomato and threw it at his head.
So much for always protecting me!
Dinner was soon served and we all gathered to the unused dining table. Edward and I were both in the kitchen bringing the last bits of the food in when I scowled in his direction.
"What's with the daggers angel?"
"Don't angel me, Cullen!" I hissed and smacked his arm.
"What the fuck Bella?" he yelled a little and nearly dropped the salad bowl.
"Our mothers were discussing our sex life or more like the lack of it and you didn't save me from the embarrassment!" I hissed again as laughter floated from the parents.
"How was I supposed to know that? I'm not a fucking mind reader baby," he scowled back at me and rubbed his arm a little.
What a baby. I thought to myself as I walked past him and towards the dining table. I placed the garlic bread on both ends of the table so everyone could reach and took my seat on Edward right whilst he took the seat at the head of the table. He quickly clasped my hand that rested on top and brought it up to his lips. Telling me he was sorry with his eyes. I did the same to him when he brought our hands back and watched as his eyes darkened ever so slightly.
"I'd like to make a toast," Carlisle said as he held out his glass of red wine and stood up.
"I'd like to say thank you to our lovely wives for preparing this deliciously smelling meal. To Edward and Bella, for being such great hosts at such short notice. To Charlie and Renee, there's nothing like getting back in touch with old friends. And finally, to my darling Esme, you are the light in my otherwise dark world, you are my rock and my biggest supporter. I wouldn't be the man I am today without you. And also, to future grandbabies…whenever they may come," he shot a wink in our direction. I groaned whilst everyone else laughed before we all cheered and drank.
Edward cleared his throat and stood up, raising his glass in one hand whilst still holding my hand in the other.
"I'd like to firstly thank you, ladies, for this lovely dinner. You are definitely all in for a treat because Bella's lasagne is to die for," he joked whilst patting his abs and the table laughed along with him. "I'd most like to thank my beautiful Isabella. Before you, I wasn't really living. You fought for us before we even knew where it was going. You stand up for what you believe in and you have bigger balls than most of the people that work for me. You've set me straight more times than I can count and helped me see and approach things differently. You've brought me back to life and for that, I am forever grateful. You are the strongest woman I know and I am the luckiest sonofabitch that's ever lived. You are already my wife in the eyes of God, but I cannot wait to do it all again in front of all our family and friends. Non posso vivere senza di te." I can't live without you.
Tears rolled down my face at his beautiful words and I made a mental note to ask him what that last phrase meant. He leaned down and captured my lips in his whilst everyone else toasted to us.
"Let's dig in before it gets cold," I quietly said to everyone as I tried in vain to stop my tears.
"Thank you, baby, that was beautiful," I brought his hand back up to my lips as he sat back down.
"I love you, Mrs. Cullen,"
"I love you too Mr. Cullen,"
I truly, madly, deeply, do.
On the ninth day since we came back, Alice called and said they're having a get together at Jasper's place tonight.
I was excited to see my best friend and hear all about their honeymoon and Rose had told us they have some news to share.
As Edward and I made our way over to Jasper and Alice's place, I couldn't take my eyes off the beautiful architecture around us. The houses were huge and I could just imagine how much space there was inside.
After flicking through the real estate brochure in Edward's office, the idea of buying our own house felt more and more appealing. I was desperate for a huge kitchen and a backyard. And once I get my car back, I want to be able to actually drive to work instead of taking an elevator down to the first floor. I wanted to move us further out of the city and get away from the huge buzz of it.
"These are some great houses," Edward said offhandedly.
I gaped at him. It was like he could read my mind.
"I was just thinking the same thing," I said in wonder but the subject was soon dropped as we pulled up outside their home.
It was a beautiful 4 story building with tall windows and red brick. It sat nestled between other buildings but didn't stand out. It more than complimented the surrounding area. The street was quiet as tall streetlights illuminated the whole road.
"How long has he lived here?" I asked as Edward placed his hand on the small of my back and led me towards the front steps.
"For the past 3 years or so. He was left with a pretty huge inheritance and was able to buy it in cash. He dabbles in the property market, buys houses on auction, renovates them and sells them on for a bigger profit," he informed me and rang the doorbell.
The door was suddenly pulled open and my pixie of a friend threw her arms around us and squeezed.
I was so happy to see her. She was absolutely glowing and I'm not sure her amazing tan had anything to do with that.
"Oh my gosh I missed you so much!" she gushed and jumped off us. "Rose and Em are already here so come on in, the food is just coming out of the oven," she beamed at us and stood back to let us through.
Edward held my hand as he led the way into the kitchen where everyone else had gathered round. It felt amazing to all be together again. I went around and said my hellos to Rose, Emmett, and finally Jasper, letting him know how beautiful his home was.
"Thanks, darlin', took me a while to get it just right but it's home. Especially now that I have Alice here full time," he said as she walked over to him and wrapped her arms around him. He promised to give me a tour later so I could see the rest of it.
They both looked extremely happy and in love, just the way it should be.
We all quickly caught up and helped bring the food into the dining room. The house definitely felt like a home and I could already see Alice's influence here too.
We took our seat at the table and conversation resumed. We spoke about Vegas, the visit from the detectives, Edward getting shot, me shooting Hunter, the club, expanding the business, their honeymoon, and the baby, which was starting to make its presence known because Rose was definitely showing now.
She was also glowing and that was most likely because of the pregnancy.
"We wanted to wait until everyone was here to announce something," Emmett spoke up as conversations quietened down.
We all turned to look at him. Waiting.
"I'm going to be a father,"
"Yeah no shit, we kinda already know that," Jasper chimed in, making everyone laugh.
"Thanks, dipshit. As I was saying before I was rudely interrupted, I'm going to be a father, so it's only right I become a husband too. I asked Rosie to marry me and of course, she said-"
"YES!" Rose shouted out, interrupting him again but he simply beamed at her.
"She said yes!" he fist-pumped the air and cheers broke out from around the table as we all got up to congratulate them.
"I'm so happy for you! Let's see the ring!" I squealed with excitement as she thrust her hand out for me and Alice to admire. The rock was huge and suited Rosalie to a T.
"I haven't stopped smiling since he asked! It was so romantic. My morning sickness had recently subsided and Emmett has been making an effort to bring me breakfast in bed. So, I lay there, rubbing my growing belly and he walks in carrying a tray filled with my favorite foods and a single-stemmed red rose in a tiny vase. I leaned in to smell the rose and noticed something shiny tied with a ribbon around the neck of the vase. At a closer look, I realized it was a ring. I gasped in surprise and turned to look at him and there he was, on one knee, in nothing but his red silky boxers, declaring his love for me and our baby," she teared up from recalling it and we instantly hugged her.
So much has happened to the three of us lately. I would have never in a million years thought we'd be where we are today.
My heart was full as I looked around the room at the people who are like family.
I caught Edward's eye and he winked at me, wrapped his arms around me and leaned down to give me a kiss.
Right then and there, I felt complete.