Chapter 25
A/N: Hello everyone... So, we are back to the story... While I love writing the lovey stuff we have to return to their life at some point. I do appreciate all of your comments to this story. I always say they are very encouraging to read. They held the creative juices flow...
Once again, there will be a sequel following The Mask for those interested. The continuousness of the intended sequel will be dependent on it's reception... There will be a lot of filler information regarding Edward and Jaspers past, so for people who are interested in that particular storyline, your questions will be answered. Considering the space for this story, I have five chapters left to write.
I love the response The Mask has received. Thanks so much for continuing to be a part of this tale.
Please Review...
"So, it looks like those condoms came in handy," Emmett acknowledged as Edward strode into the kitchen the next afternoon. Pointing to a purple spot on Edward's neck, his eyebrow lifted, and a gloating expression filtered across his face. "Was Bella feeling a little hungry, or was it that good of a time?"
Edward shot Emmett a glare as he came up next to him. "Shut the hell up. What time are you taking her to the diner? That rental car is still there, and we need to bring it back today."
"What, no details?" Emmett dodged Edward's elbow when he would've given him a sharp jab. "How are you such a prude?"
"Dude, some things are just private or should be, anyway. And don't be saying anything to embarrass her about it either," Edward warned, grabbing the coffeepot and pouring a fresh mug. Quickly, he spooned some sugar into the steaming brew. Stirring it he took a sip, tossing the spoon toward the sink, he turned to Emmett. "While you're are at the diner, take a look around and make sure everything's still kosher."
"Already planned on it." Emmett pulled the fridge open and grabbed the carton of eggs. "I'll just make a bite really quick. Rose is finishing up her shower, but after that, we're good. Want some?"
"Naw, I need to take Bella this cup, and get dressed." Edward turned away from the counter, heading for the stairs when Emmett's voice stopped him.
"I see you took the mask off." He crossed the kitchen, stopping in front of the stove, he grabbed a skillet from an overhanging hook. "How did that go?"
"Better than I could have expected. You know, maybe Bella and I will follow you on the bike to the diner," Edward admitted before turning to climb the stairs. He left the kitchen too fast to see Emmett's surprised expression. It had been years since he'd left this house besides his random excursions on horseback, or his motorcycle, and never in any populated areas.
Crossing his study, he pushed into the bedroom door he'd left ajar, coming to a standstill when he spotted Bella. She was standing next to the bed and appeared to be holding a crumpled photo in her hand. His heart constricted when he realized what she held, his jaw clenching, and his stomach turned sour. The fucking picture must've fallen from his pocket. "Ahhh, Bella?"
Bella studied the picture long and hard. She didn't recognize the guy, yet there was a dangerous quality about him. Hearing the apprehension in Edward's voice as he stumbled upon her, she jolted nervously, her gaze darting in his direction. There was fear mixed with a darkness in his eyes she'd never noticed before. "Who is this?"
He strode across the room, stopping before her, he set the cup aside before snatching the photo from her fingers. Glaring at the image in the picture, he silently cursed himself for being so careless. The damn thing must have fallen out of his pocket sometime last night without him being aware. Shrugging, he said, "No one important, Bella."
Judging by his tone, Bella totally disagreed. Her fingers settled on his arm, and when he flinched, she withdrew. "Why don't I believe you?"
When he remained silent, she took the cup he'd placed on the nightstand and started for the door. She was just about to step over the threshold when his reply stopped her. "His name is James. He…he was one of them."
"The hunters?"
"Yeah, he—he is the one who—who…" His explanation trailed off as he stared down into the picture. Jasper's fear-stricken gaze entered Edward's mind. Gradually, his gaze lifted to find Bella next to him. She'd moved without him even being aware, and now, gently, she stroked his lower back with calming fingers. "If—if you see him, Bella…run. Just fucking, run… he's beyond dangerous."
The way he stated the last part gave Bella a chill. Visibly, she shivered, wanting to rub the gooseflesh from her arms. To ease his mind, she gave a short nod. "Okay, Edward… if I ever see him… I will run."
He didn't seem even remotely appeased by her answer. If this man were one of the hunters, Edward having his picture couldn't be healthy. Mentally, anyway. "Edward, maybe—maybe you shouldn't keep this."
"Emmett and Rose wanted me to burn it. I tried once," he told her, showing her the frayed edges. "I put it out. I just couldn't…"
Bella couldn't even begin to imagine his reasoning. She wasn't entirely sure Edward understood his reasoning either. Even while his attachment to the photo concerned her, she had to appreciate his willingness to explain. "Maybe someday soon, you will be able to put all of this past you—and when you do, I'll be here to pick up the pieces."
With a worried sigh, his gaze roamed over her, taking in her delicate features. If something were to happen to her, he'd be a wreck, a pure and utter wreck. A couple of months ago, a stranger had moved into his house, and from the moment he'd spotted her through his window, he knew she was going to change his life. He was shocked by exactly how much that statement was true. Taken aback by the strength of his growing attraction to Bella, he cleared his throat, saying, "We should probably head down pretty soon. Emmett and Rosalie can follow us in the car to the diner."
"You know," she started, hoping to take his mind off of the past, she continued, "I thought I might take the diner off the market and take out a small loan. Maybe turn the place into a fine dining establishment."
That seemed to do the trick. Edward tossed the photo of James onto the nightstand. Belatedly, he would realize he hadn't felt the need to put the damn thing back in his pocket. Pivoting on his heel to face her with an amused light in his eye, he gave a short laugh. "You really think the people of Forks would be able to afford the prices of a fine dining experience?"
"Well, maybe not too fine, just nicer." A short laugh escaped her as she shrugged. "Maybe tourists could come by…I don't know. It was just an idea."
Edward hadn't meant to make light of her idea. "Babe…if that's what you want to do, I think it's a fantastic idea."
Her face scrunched up in disbelief. "Really?"
"Absolutely. I will eat there every night if I have to."
His sincerity made her smile. She believed he would do precisely that. Having him support her in such a way had gratitude filling her. Moving around the bed, she stopped in front of him, saying in a teasing voice, "What if the food is terrible?"
"I'll just take Pepto before I eat," he laughed as she buried her face in his chest. Refusing to let the man in the photo steal any more of his life, Edward's fingers tunneled in her hair as he dropped a kiss to her forehead. "Let's get this over with—we have dinner with mom and dad in a few hours.
Bella's grip on Edward's waist tightened as he leaned to turn into the parking lot of the diner. The last time she'd seen this place, she'd been running for her life. Literally, running for her life. Shivering as the idea took root, she glanced over her shoulder, ensuring Rose and Emmett were still close behind. Just knowing they rode in the car behind them gave her comfort. With the Cullen's at her side, no one was likely to try anything.
Shifting on the bike, she felt a tinge of pain in her thighs from their activity through the night. Purposely, she moved again, liking the reminder of belonging to Edward. Belonging to Edward… a slight smile pulled at her lips. The idea was so compelling it nearly made her forget her earlier apprehension about coming to the diner. Yet as the bike dipped into the parking lot, her stomach did a funny little somersault.
Nervously, her gaze went to the corner where her car was parked. Just the thought of crossing the lot and the memory of Laurent had a quiver shaking her limbs. She'd never been so fearful in her life, and now, knowing what the monster was capable of, really didn't help matters.
Edward took a quick look around the parking lot as he rolled up to the sidewalk near the front door. Nothing appeared to be suspicious. No one lurked close to Bella's rented car, and customers seemed to be enjoying their experience inside. His foot dropped when he came to a stop, tapping Bella's knee, while Emmett and Rose parked next to him.
She removed her borrowed helmet and placed it on the back of the bike. When Edward flipped his visor up, she said, "I will probably be about twenty minutes or so. I should be good if you guys want to take a ride and come back."
"We're not leaving you here, Bella. Emmett will go inside with you and wait until you're finished."
Even as Edward spoke, Emmett rolled his car window down for Rose before pushing the door open wide. "Hopefully, there is some fresh pie in there to keep me occupied."
Grateful to have such loyal friends, she gave him a nod, her eyes never leaving his. At that moment, she hoped he knew just how much he meant to her. She felt Emmett's bulky arm brush hers as he climbed from the car and came to her side. Lifting her hand, she let her fingers caress Edward's forearm, not able to get enough of touching him.
"I'm sure we can find you something to munch on," Bella promised, leading the way up the sidewalk. When her hand landed on the door, her belly constricted as an odd energy humming from the handle shocked her fingertips. Taking a deep breath, she pulled the door open and stepped over the threshold, her gaze scanning the dining area.
Instantly, her attention went to the corner booth, Laurent and Victoria had frequented on numerous occasions. When the devil with an accent never appeared, her chest relaxed, enabling her to exhale. The giant at her side must've noticed her hesitation because his elbow bumped into her, effectively drawing her attention.
"Don't worry, Bella," he told her, moving up next to her. He surveyed the area, and finding nothing to draw attention; he continued, "Nothing's going to happen. I'm not going anywhere."
Trying to believe him, she went to the counter, gesturing for him to sit at one of the many vacant stools. "You can sit out here and tell Angela I said to give you whatever you want."
"That's really generous, but I'm not leaving your side. So, if you have to do business in the back, then I will be right inside your office." His tone didn't leave her any room to argue. As if to show Bella his intent, Emmett moved behind the counter and pushed the doors to the kitchen open, calmly waiting for her to follow. "After you, milady."
"Milady?" Bella laughed as she walked past him, stepping into the kitchen, relieved when he stayed close behind her. "Where did that come from?"
"Hell, I don't know," he laughed. "Just kind of came out."
Paul glanced up from the grill; he was spreading grease on the hot surface. "Hey, boss-lady, the sink started leaking again. Luckily, Jacob stopped by for a cup of joe. He offered to take a look at it."
"Jacob?" Emmett asked, shooting Bella a sidelong glance. "I wouldn't be telling Edward. He kind of has a jealous streak where you are concerned."
"No way," she laughed, acting shocked, her hand flying to cover her chest. "I had no idea."
"Just saying," he warned his eyebrow lifting, yet humor lit his eyes. "It's funny as hell."
"Glad you think so." Turning away from Emmett, she headed in the direction of the sink, rounding the corner to find Jacob sprawled beneath the sink with a wrench in his hand. Stopping just before his feet, she nudged him with her toe. "Maybe I should just call a plumber. You shouldn't have to work on it every time you come by."
"Fuck," Jacob cursed, cracking his forehead on a pipe as he jerked upright. Noticing the giant at Bella's side, he visibly swallowed, "Hey, Bella. Yeah, the seals I replaced a couple of months ago aren't holding."
"Go figure."
The irony Bella detected in Emmett's voice made her wonder. Deciding to ignore it, however, she passed him a glare, silently warning him to be kind. "After I call the bank and set up an appointment, I'll call someone more qualified. Thanks for trying, Jake."
"Actually, Bella, I think I forgot to put sealant on the joint when I installed the seal. Should only take a few minutes to fix."
"I bet," Emmett mumbled, grunting when Bella's elbow jabbed his stomach. His forehead furrowed in response. "What?"
"If you don't mind fixing the sink, that'd be great, Jake. Have Angela comp you a meal, okay. I do appreciate it."
Emmett stepped away, wandering through the kitchen. A laugh escaped her when she saw him snag a fry from the fryer. When he went over to Paul and said something she couldn't hear from this distance, she imagined, Emmett was telling him what he wanted to eat.
Rubbing his forehead, Jacob gave her a half-smile, pausing when he would have gone back to work. "So, is that Edward?"
"No. That is his brother Emmett." Growing fidgety under the weight of Jake's questioning look, she continued, "I had an encounter with some weird people the other night. Emmett's here to make sure everything is alright. Edward's actually on the bike out in the parking lot."
Jacob's skin paled as her words registered, worry etching his handsome features. "What kind of problems? Are you okay? Why didn't you call? We are still friends, Bella. If you need me for anything…"
"She doesn't need you," Emmett clarified as he returned to Bella's side. When Bella turned in his direction, he attempted to soften his statement, saying, "We got it, man, but nice looking out."
"I should get the deposit for the bank. Thanks for everything, Jake." Apologetically, she grimaced before turning toward her office with Emmett in tow. "Do you have to be so…so…"
"Gallant? Brotherly? Protective?"
"More like such a man," Bella stated, unlocking the door to her office. "I don't like the idea of hurting his feelings…"
"Bella, he purposely didn't put sealant on the joint to the sink to have a reason to come back around. If you don't tell him point blank-he will always think he has a chance." Emmett plopped into the chair behind her swivel chair.
"How do you know that?" Turning the dial on the safe, Bella pulled the deposit bag from inside before turning her computer on.
"Because if I wanted some chick that bad, I'd do it. When Rose and I started out, I made every excuse you could imagine to be around her." Folding his arms behind his head, he sat back his watchful eyes surveying the kitchen. "You should understand. Look at you and Edward. If he hadn't wanted you that bad, he wouldn't have let you anywhere near him. Trust me; he is a master at pushing people away. Bella?"
Looking over her shoulder as concern filled Emmett's voice. "Yeah?"
"If he tries pushing you away—don't let him."
"I won't," She met his gaze with promise in her eyes. "Wild horses couldn't drag me away from Edward."
Emmett's statement did make her wonder, however. Why would Edward push her away? After everything they'd shared, would he try to escape her? The thought of losing Edward, any part of him, caused a depressing ache in her chest. No matter what, she couldn't bear the idea of being separated from him.
Silence fell between them as Bella sat tallying the numbers from the sales today. Once she finished calculating everything, she switched off the computer and pushed away from the desk. Taking the deposit bag, she tucked it up under her arm as she collected her things. "I think I'm all finished up here."
Just as she was lifting from the chair, Jacob filled the doorway. "I finished the sink. Remember, Bella, if you need anything…"
"Why don't I walk you out?" Bella offered as she exited her office, followed by the overbearing man behind her. "I could use some names to a few good contractors if you happen to know any."
"Yeah, I could shoot you a text with some names." Quickly, he fell into step beside her as she passed through the kitchen. "Plus, I need a description of the people lurking around. If they came after you, there is a chance other people might be in danger. I'll keep an eye out."
They hesitated for a few seconds while Emmett collected his food from Paul. "That's not a bad idea. Okay, there is an attractive black male with dreads down to his butt. He has some sort of an accent, either English or Australian. The other one was a woman around my age with curly long red hair, and incredibly attractive."
Emmett trailed behind them as Bella relayed all the information she had. Along the way, she even included a description of James and the black van as they pushed outside, Edward's Kawasaki immediately drawing her attention. When she noticed Edward still wore his helmet, she jabbed Jake with her elbow. "Come here—there's someone I'd like you to meet."
Leading the way, Bella rounded the bike, going to Edward's side. His arm went around her, his fingertips hard against her waist. "Edward, this is Jake. He's a friend of mine."
To her surprise, Edward held out his free hand, even while a glare entered his eyes. "I'm the boyfriend."
Please Review... 5 chapters remaining. Yes, there will be a sequel...
Also, if you haven't already... Please check out my new fic... Micah. Thanks for reading.