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.
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).
Carrots? Has anyone seen any carrots? The plot bunny attacked and well, you all are going to reap the benefits. NEW STORY! I've been writing some pretty heavy stuff lately and well, I'm going to lighten it up a bit. It's not going to be a humorous story (though there will be some funny bits) but it will be romantic. Some drama…some light angst (there needs to be some sort of conflict or it wouldn't be worth reading, kids).
Up next will be Valentine's Day and their trip to San Francisco. I'm also leaning toward separating them again since Edward and Carlisle, they need to heal their relationship and Edward needs to work on his surprise for his future bride. Plus, some not so nice characters are coming back. Just sayin…
Chapter Twenty-Eight: Cupid's Arrow and San Francisco Treats
BPOV
I was sitting at my desk, working on my newest article for the new editor of the news section, Miranda. She had been hired from another paper and I liked her a lot. She challenged us in ways we never thought possible. However, it was all due to Marcus's promotion to editor-in-chief. He raised the bar for the entire paper and it made coming to work fun again.
It didn't sway my decision in resigning at the end of May, though. My life was no longer in Seattle. It was waiting for me on a tropical and beautiful island off the eastern coast of Brazil. I even had a position working at the resort. I would be taking over Rose's job as concierge and wedding planner until they could hire someone permanent. Rose wanted to stay with the baby until it started school, not wanting to miss a moment with her little one. I'd start after we returned from our honeymoon, wherever Edward was taking us. He was pretty cryptic when I asked him what he was planning. He'd only smile smugly, replying, 'The trip of a lifetime, gorgeous girl.'
"Bella!" sang Paul as he glided into my super cube. "Come with me to lunch, my BFF!"
"Let me just save my work," I said, backing up my research on state testing at various schools and how it was not aligning with the new Common Core standards. Grabbing my coat and purse, we walked to a nearby bistro. "What's up, Paulie?"
"What are you and Romeo doing for Valentine's Day?" asked Paul.
"We haven't really talked about it. Edward has been working his fingers to the bone trying to find something close to my parent's place that wasn't exorbitantly expensive. Plus, he's conferencing with Alice about the resort and with New Moon Gaming about the Elvendore game. There was a miscommunication about the cover art and he's not happy. Why?"
"Well, Rob and I, we're finally getting married," Paul said, slamming his left hand down. On his ring finger was a diamond band that glittered under the halogen lights. "We're having a small ceremony on Valentine's Day at the courthouse. But, on Saturday, we're having a reception at Canlis. If you and Edward are available, we'd love for you to be there."
"No invitations?" I quipped.
"Rob was frustrated with my hesitation to set a date because nothing was gelling with my vision. So, he took the reins and well, now, we're having something small. I'm actually okay with it, too. Less stress and all I have to do is show up, say 'I do' and kiss the shit out of my husband," Paul snickered.
"Let me talk to Edward, but I'm almost certain we don't have anything planned," I said, squeezing my friend's hand. "I'm so happy for you. You and Rob are so stinking cute together."
"He is pretty damn adorable," Paul said dreamily. "How are things going with your own wedding plans?"
"Pretty much done except for the dress," I said. "Alice, Edward's sister and Rose, his sister-in-law, are taking care of everything down in Brazil. I just told them the colors I wanted and the rest, they're running with."
"So unlike your first wedding," Paul snorted. "You were panicking over the most miniscule thing. Wrong flowers, the entrée was too salty, the service was too early in the day while the reception was starting too late. List goes on and on."
"I think that goes to the state of mind I was in. I wanted everything to perfect because I was compensating for Tyler's inadequacies. I knew something wasn't right and I used my wedding to make sure everyone knew that we were okay," I shrugged. "With Edward, our relationship has been, for the most part, fairly easy. At first, I thought he was a douchetard that wanted to fuck anything with tits, but after talking to him, I realized that he was lonely and desperate for love." I sipped my water. "His ex-girlfriend really raked him over the coals."
"I know. He told me. If I see her, it'll be all I can do not to deflate her probably very fake breasts," Paul spat. "Edward is a great guy, who's smart, funny, driven and sexy as hell. If he were gay and I wasn't marrying Rob, hmmm…I'd take him to bed in a New York minute."
"Well, he's straight and you are marrying Rob," I laughed.
"Do you have your wedding party figured out?" Paul asked.
"It's small. The whole wedding is small since it's a destination wedding," I replied. "Angela is my maid of honor and Alice is my bridesmaid. Everyone from my first wedding party is invited or will be. We just sent the save the date cards yesterday. Edward designed them and they are absolutely gorgeous."
"Is there anything that the man can't do?" Paul laughed.
"No. He's pretty much perfect and it's nauseating," I snickered. "I love him, though."
"That's important but he also needs to love you, too. Which he does. Even a blind man can see how much Edward adores you," Paul smiled, taking my hand. "Now give me more deets on this gorgeous destination wedding. I have to make sure I pack my Speedo."
"Oh, God," I whined.
xx AIDA xx
When I got home, I spoke with Edward about Paul and Rob's reception at Canlis. He was excited, calling up Paul himself to let him know that we were going to be there, celebrating their nuptials. Edward did also make plans for Valentine's Day for the two of us, but again, he was being cryptic.
"Edward, you are driving me bonkers with this Captain Cryptic thing you've got going," I said, arching a brow. "First you won't tell me where we're going for our honeymoon and now, this evasive behavior about Valentine's Day?"
"Bella, I promise you that it will be fantastic," he said, pulling me into his arms. "I want to spoil my fiancée. I've got everything under control. Do you trust me?"
"Of course I do," I said, jutting out my bottom lip.
"No pouting, gorgeous girl," he chuckled, kissing my lip. "Just let me spoil you like you deserve. On Friday, we'll be going out and celebrating our love."
"Don't go too overboard, Edward," I said, moving my hands up his arms.
"Too late," he laughed. I scowled at him, earning another round of chuckles from my fiancé. Wrapping me in his arms, Edward kissed me sweetly and led me to the couch. "Now, I've got the details about our trip to San Francisco. We're staying at the Hotel Palomar which is right around the corner from the Moscone Center. Once the conference is done, we can spend the next few days gallivanting around San Francisco."
"That sounds like a lot of fun," I smiled. "Are we staying at the hotel for our entire stay?"
"Yep. I booked it as soon as I got the information from New Moon gaming. I'm looking forward to this trip with you," he smiled, pulling me into his lap. "I know I'll be working for the first part, but once I'm done, I'm all yours."
"Yay," I giggled, nuzzling his neck. Soon the nuzzling turned to kissing. The kissing turned to making out. Then, we ended up naked on my couch, making love on the floor of our apartment. Laying on top of a blanket, I snuggled against Edward's warm body. "Will it always be like this? An insatiable need for each other?"
"I certainly hope so," he said, his hand dipping down to my ass and he gave it a squeeze. "I could not imagine loving you any less, Bella."
"Even if I gain a hundred pounds?" I quipped. "Or when I'm as big as a house when I get pregnant?"
"Even then," he snickered. "Will you still love me when I'm balding and can't wipe my own ass?"
"I do not think you will ever lose your hair, Edward. You're almost thirty and it's thick. You're going to die with this shock of hair," I said, running my fingers through his thick mane. "And if you can't wipe your own ass, I'll get a caregiver to do it. I may be in the same boat."
"Good to know," he laughed, getting up from the floor. "Come on, gorgeous girl. Let's get cleaned up. You've got work tomorrow."
The next couple of days dragged on. I had hit a wall on my article and was finding it difficult to get people to interview about the topic, in fear of losing their jobs. I vowed to use aliases, but I only got three interviews before I had to submit for my deadline. When I got home on Friday, I found the apartment empty, save for a note tented on the cocktail table. Picking it up, I saw a 'love poem' from Edward.
Roses are Red;
Violets are blue.
I'm trying to be romantic
All just for you
Dearest Bella,
Obviously the written word is not my forte. I'll stick to writing code and solving problems at the resort. But, I am trying to be romantic for you, my love. In the bedroom, there is an outfit for you to wear on our date this evening. Alice picked it out. Yes, I went shopping with her in my ear. I'm a dork, I know.
I'll be back by seven but I had to run some errands. (Finish the spoiling of my future wife, you know?) Take a nap, get dressed and be ready by seven. Our reservations are at eight and then I have another surprise, my Bella.
I love you and Happy Valentine's Day,
Your Edward
I chuckled at his pathetic attempt at poetry, but what he lacks in creativity in verse, he makes up for with his sweet, loving gestures. Checking the time, I had enough of it to take a cat nap before I had to get ready for our date. Slipping off my shoes, I curled up on the couch and set my alarm on the phone.
Too quickly, the alarm blared and I dragged my body off the couch to shower and get dressed. Hanging on the door of the closet was a very slinky and lacy dress. It was black and white, absolutely gorgeous and left little to the imagination. Turning it around, the back was completely open and I knew I couldn't wear a bra. I walked to the bed, finding a pink bag from Victoria's Secret. I plucked it up, finding another note.
I bought you the complete outfit. Wear this underneath, my sexy fiancée. Knowing you are wearing just this, I'll know I'll struggle keeping my hands to myself…
I'm hard just imagining it…
Love you,
Hornball
I reached inside of the bag, finding a garter belt, a pair of thigh highs and my jeweled butt plug. No panties? Edward definitely is a hornball. However, my eyes glittered at the prospect of all of the amazing sex we were going to have tonight. Darting into the bathroom, I pinned up my hair so it wouldn't get wet while I showered, shaved and made myself presentable for my man. An hour later, I was in my dress and putting on some makeup. My hair was curled, draped over my shoulders in a loose ponytail. The only thing that was missing was jewelry. I didn't know what to wear.
"Bella?" called Edward.
"In the bathroom," I replied, blotting my lips.
He strolled in, wearing a black suit with a black dress shirt, no tie. He looked sexy and dangerous. My body reacted at his gorgeous form. My pussy clenched and I felt myself become wet. Damn, he's gorgeous. "Hmmm, I may have to buy Alice a gift. That dress is sinful on you, Mrs. Cullen."
"Not yet, Mr. Cullen," I quipped, turning around to wrap my arms around his neck.
"No, not yet. But in six months, it will be your new last name," Edward purred, kissing my lips. His hands slid down to my ass and he massaged it slowly. His fingers teased my butt plug and he growled. "Good girl, Isabella. I'm glad you were willing to play with me."
"No panties, Edward? Do you want to finger me in public?" I giggled.
"Not in this dress, baby. Your body would be on display and only I get to see it," he said. "I wanted to make sure that you were sufficiently turned on for everything I want to do to you tonight. Are you wet?"
"I'm afraid I'm going to ruin my dress," I cooed.
"Well, it's best we get going so we can enjoy some quality time together, minus our clothes," he chuckled, smacking my ass. "Before we go, I have your Valentine's Day present. I think it will go nicely with your dress." Wrapping his arm around my waist, Edward led me to the living room, where there was an elegant red bag on the table. I kissed his nose, teetering to grab my own present for him. Picking up the bag from the kitchen, I sat down on his lap. "You didn't have to get me anything, love."
"Yes, I did. Based on your crypticness, I knew you were up to something. Paul and Angela helped me shop for you on my lunch hour yesterday. I think you'll like it," I smirked.
"Crypticness?" he laughed. I shrugged, putting the bag into his hands. "Well, thank you, my gorgeous girl. I love you." He kissed me again before tearing into his bag like a kid on Christmas morning. He took out the card first. It was a traditional Valentine's Day card, touting my undying love and being epically cheesy. The ironic thing is that everything that was stated in the card, I believed. Edward was my best friend, my soul mate and everything in between. I couldn't wait until we began our future. I was fighting back tears as he read the card, nervously twisting my engagement ring. He put the card down. "Bella, what's wrong?"
"I mean everything in that card," I sniffled. "I wish I could show you every moment of every day."
"Baby, you do," he said, putting the present on the ground and taking my face in his hands. "Why are you crying?"
"I don't know. I just love you so much," I chuckled. He wiped my face with his thumbs. "I promise to pull it together. I just never thought I'd find this. Us. A happily ever after."
"Well, ours is an epic fairy tale romance. I vow to be your prince charming from now until the day I die," he said, kissing my cheeks.
"You're not dying, Edward Anthony. Somehow, we're going to figure out a way to live forever because one lifetime is not enough with you," I said, throwing my arms around his neck. He held me, rubbing my back with his soft, warm hands. "Sorry. I don't know what came over me."
"I feel the same way, my Bella." I blushed, picking up his present from the floor. He gave me his beautiful crooked smile before opening up the present. I had gotten him three things. The first was kind of necessary. During our trip to Isle Esme in January, Edward had broken his sunglasses. I purchased him a new pair of Rayban Wayfarers. I also got him some Dior Homme cologne. I loved the scent and the actor who was the new face looked a lot like my fiancé. So much so, that they could be twins, except that Edward was a year older than him. The last gift I got him was my big ticket item. Edward loved watches. So, I found a unique and expensive watch. I nearly had heart palpitations when I slid my credit card over. Granted, it was probably nothing compared to what he paid for my engagement ring, but it was a lot for me. "Bella…this is all amazing." He put on the sunglasses, grinning widely. "What do you think?"
"Better than your broken ones," I snickered. He put on the watch, arching a brow at me. I just threaded my fingers with his, snuggling on his lap.
"Now, it's your turn, my love," Edward said, handing me the red bag. "I don't have a card because I had a brain fart. I forgot to pick one up."
"I only remembered about the card because Paul dragged me into a Hallmark store, thrusting cards into my face," I giggled. "Well, I also needed the bag, too." Edward nodded, pushing the bag towards me and I threw out the mounds of tissue paper onto the ground. "I think you killed a tropical rain forest with all of the paper, Edward."
"It made it look pretty," he laughed. "You know my inability to wrap presents. But, stuffing a bag with tissue paper? I've got mad skills there."
I rolled my eyes, pulling out three jewelry boxes. "Edward," I chided.
"Hush. My job is to spoil you. Besides, two of these are family heirlooms. I only bought one," he argued. Biting my lip, I opened up the largest of the three boxes. Inside, on a bed of satin, was ruby and diamond bracelet. "That's what I bought."
"Edward, this is gorgeous," I whispered. "Too…"
"It's not too much, Bella. I want the best for you," he frowned, putting the bracelet on my wrist. "I could say the same about your gift to me." He looked at his watch. "But, I truly appreciate it."
"I appreciate this, but I don't want you to think that you have to buy me expensive things to show that you love me," I said.
"I know. I buy you things because I want to. They are an extension of my love for you, Bella," he said, kissing my wrist. "Now, the rest of my present is a family heirloom. My grandmother on my mom's side, she left all of us kids various jewelry. This is part of my inheritance and I want you to have it. It's not like I'm ever going to wear it."
I chuckled quietly, opening the next box. Inside were a pair of ruby, pink tourmaline and diamond earrings. "They're gorgeous."
"My grandfather had excellent taste," Edward said. "Last one, baby."
I bit my lip, putting in my earrings before grabbing the smallest box. Opening it up, I gasped when I saw a large ruby ring, surrounded by pink tourmalines and diamonds. It was the companion piece to the earrings. I picked it up, sliding it on my ring finger, but it was too big. "I figured it was too large. Grandma Platt had fat fingers. We can get it sized, but for tonight, where on your pointer finger," he said, sliding it onto my pointer finger, where it fit perfectly.
"I actually like it on this finger," I said, wiggling my hand. He kissed it before kissing me. "Thank you, Edward. I don't deserve you, but I do appreciate all of this."
"You do deserve me as I deserve you," he said, arching a brow. "We should get going. We have reservations at Andaluca and then the rest of your Valentine's Day present."
"What else could you get me?" I asked, laughing nervously.
"You'll see."
Driving to the restaurant, we were seated in a quiet corner of the Mediterranean restaurant. We shared a bottle of wine, ate delicious treats and talked about our trip to San Francisco, which Edward had finalized during the week. As we were sipping some espresso, Edward waved down our server and she brought a file to my fiancé. "There's still one more thing, but I wanted to show this to you here," Edward said, pushing the file toward me. "I met with a realtor and found five places that could be doable. They're in your parent's neighborhood and are very nice. Square footage-wise, they are a little bit bigger than your parent's home, but I figured we'd need that for when we have children. We have an appointment next weekend to look at these homes and any more that the realtor thinks would fit our needs," he explained.
"This is amazing, Edward," I breathed, flipping through the listings.
"If things work out, we can move all of your furniture into our new house prior to our wedding," Edward said. "But, there is something more I need to tell you."
"What is it, Edward?"
He looked down at the table, twisting the espresso mug. "I probably have to go down to Isle Esme after our trip to San Francisco. From what I've heard, Carlisle is struggling with everything that I do down there. I have to fix some of the damage he caused. Even with Alice and Rose's help, he's still barely treading water."
"Oh," I frowned.
"Bella, I don't want to go. I'll be up here as much as I can, helping us move into the new house but I have to get acclimated back into my position at Isle Esme," he said, threading his fingers with mine. "Plus, I have to try and get my father to realize that I'm not a fuck up."
"I know you're not. So does your family. He's the small-minded idiot who is willingly throwing away his relationship with you because of his very wrong opinion of you. Has he once called to apologize?" I asked, my temper flaring.
"He's called but I've ignored it since I was not ready to talk to him. Everyone else, I've talked to, especially my mom and Alice, but not my father," he sighed, tracing my ring with his finger. "Are you mad?"
"No, I'm not mad," I said, kissing his knuckles. "I know you don't want to go, but the island and the resort mean a lot to you. They mean a lot to me, too. It's going to suck not having you near me, but I understand why you have to go."
"Besides, someone has to make sure that Rose and Alice don't go overboard with our wedding," he chuckled. "Now, I've spoken with Alice. I can stay through the end of April, then I have to go back to Brazil. We have a lull in our reservations and it'll give me a chance to possibly hire some new summer workers, get some new vendors and began planning some upcoming events to bring in more revenue."
"Well, as much as I hate for you to go, imagine our reunion," I said, wriggling my brows.
"We'll both be unable to walk," Edward laughed, kissing my lips. "But, what a way to go."
"Am I safe to assume that we're not have a sex-bargo prior to the wedding?" I giggled.
"We are, unintentionally. But, honestly, with our separation, I'll probably physically hurt someone who tried to keep me away from you," Edward laughed. "A tiny, pixie-like sister who is all about getting her own way."
"I love Alice but if she tries to keep me away from you, she'll get pushed into the pool," I deadpanned. "Now, all of this talk of you leaving has made me want you even more. Let's get out of here so we can get lost in each other."
"Check please," Edward squeaked, waving his hand frantically. When the server came with the check, he tossed in a couple hundred dollars and dragged me out of the restaurant, not waiting for change. Once the car came from the valet, Edward helped me into the passenger seat. He sprinted around the front of the car, peeling away from the curb.
"Edward, baby, the apartment is the other way," I giggled nervously.
"We're not going to the apartment," he said tightly. "We're going to the Edgewater. It's the last part of our Valentine's Day celebration. I seriously hope you don't think we're sleeping tonight, right?"
Oh, yes!
xx AIDA xx
"Bella, we need to get dressed," Edward chuckled as he caressed my naked body. "We have to be at Canlis in an hour."
"I can't help it that you're sexy as sin and that I always want you," I giggled, kissing his chest.
"I feel the same way, but Paul and Rob wanted us at their reception, gorgeous girl," he said, smacking my ass. "Besides, you have to adjust your curls. I think that last romp caused them to fall."
"I think I should go like this. That way, we can just come together easily without those pesky clothes," I snickered, sitting up and rolling my naked body over his.
"Isabella Marie, I love you but get dressed, woman!" Edward barked, rolling us so I was pinned underneath his muscular body. He kissed me deeply, hopping up from the bed and sauntering, naked to get his suit on. I watched him unabashedly, wanting him again. "For the love, Bella. What has happened to you? You're insatiable!"
"What? You're gorgeous and I'm wet," I shrugged, getting up from the bed and picking up another new dress that Alice had chosen for me.
"I promise, baby, I'll take care of you when we get back to the hotel after the reception. But, we're probably going to be late as it is," he chuckled, handing me a pair of butt floss. "Please get dressed, my sex goddess." I pouted but did get ready. My dress was black lace with deep red accents. I was able to wear my new jewelry and I felt strangely gothic. Once I was in my dress, I slipped on my black heels and put on some deep lipstick, finishing my look. Edward was wearing a charcoal gray suit with a white shirt and a red paisley tie. He looked amazing, but then again, he always did when he wore a suit.
"I don't know what's more enticing. You in a suit or you naked," I quipped.
"For me it's simple. I love you naked, knowing that only I will get to see it from now until the end of our time together," Edward smiled, walking toward me. "But, seeing you all dressed up like this? That's also a bonus because I know what's underneath."
Damn, this man can make me melt with his sweet but sexy phrases.
"Shall we?" Edward asked, gallantly offering me his arm. I nodded and we went downstairs to lobby. Edward handed over his valet ticket, wrapping his arm around my waist and rubbing his thumb on my hip. His red car was pulled up. Edward helped me into the seat and gracefully slid into the driver's side. We drove the short distance to Canlis for Paul and Rob's reception. Arriving at the restaurant, we were ushered into one of the larger dining rooms. It was decorated with white flowers, black table clothes and elegant accoutrements. The room was understated and classy.
Immediately, I saw Angela and Ben chatting with Becca and Dr. McCutie, erm, Daniel. Edward and I walked over to them. I hadn't seen Becca since she moved in with her sister and she hadn't found out about my engagement to Edward. I was happy to see Daniel, his arm around Becca and she was comfortable with him.
"Bells!" squealed Angela. "I love your dress!"
"Thanks! Alice, Edward's sister, picked it out for me," I said, hugging my best friend.
"I was shopping up here and Alice told me what Bella liked," Edward chuckled. "Some designer named Zippity Doo Dah."
"Zuhair Murad," I laughed.
"Close enough," Edward shrugged.
I turned to Becca, who eagerly hugged me. "I'm so happy for you, Bell," she whispered in my ear. "I got the 'save the date' card. Very cute, by the way."
"Edward designed them," I said, twining my fingers with his. "I'm going for a peacock theme."
"Well, it works," Becca beamed. She looked amazing. Happy. Her brown eyes were twinkling, no longer dull with fear and exhaustion. Her hair was growing out and it was styled in a chic bob, angled around her chin. However, the biggest change was just her aura of calm, contentment and bliss. Daniel must have had a positive effect on my friend. She was holding his hand and openly accepting his affection. "I know that I'll be there. Daniel is trying to work on getting the time off of work."
"Being the low man on the totem pole means that I won't find out until we get closer to the actual date," Daniel said, pouting slightly. "I don't think it's fair since I've worked every single holiday since I started at the hospital. No one is willing to cover my shifts. Not one person that I helped out in a pinch. I'm pissed. I want to go to Brazil, damn it."
"Have you spoken to your supervisor?" Edward asked.
"I have, but they aren't really going above and beyond to help. My next step is to speak with the chief of emergency medicine. She knows all that I do to help out the department. I haven't had a vacation since I graduated from undergrad. Is a week too much to ask for?" Daniel laughed.
"Apparently, at your place of employment, it is," Ben shrugged. "You're asking well in advance. It's not like you're going out of the country tomorrow. Bella and Edward's wedding is in six months!"
"Well, I have a couple of avenues to try before I hand in my resignation," Daniel quipped. "I want to go on a romantic vacation with my girl and Brazil fits that bill."
"So, you're official?" Angela asked.
"Daniel asked me to be his girlfriend last night," Becca beamed, kissing Daniel on the cheek.
"I had just gotten off shift and I had a bad night, seeing a couple fight for their lives because of a drunk driver. I had to see her and I asked. She said yes and well, we had one hell of a make out session in her room," Daniel smirked, cupping Becca's chin and kissing her softly.
"Awwwwww," Angela and I cooed. Edward and Ben offered their congratulations. As we were chatting, Jessica and Mike came in, along with Marcus and Diane. We all shared our Valentine's Day stories as we waited for Paul and Rob to arrive at their party. Fifteen minutes later, they arrived, wearing matching tuxedos and elated grins. Everyone applauded our dear friends as they glided into the restaurant. Rob took Paul's face, kissing him and held up their joint hands. They looked so happy. Their love permeated the room, making all of us move closer to our significant others. Edward wrapped his arms around my waist and nuzzled my hair. He whispered his adoration for me. I responded in kind, my heart stammering against my ribs.
Eventually, we all took our seats. We were all at the same table. A bottle of champagne was opened and we all began our obnoxious toasts to Rob and Paul. As often as they could, they kissed and canoodled, loving their free pass on public displays of affection. We ate a delicious meal of salmon, steak and locally grown favorites. Paul and Rob didn't have a wedding cake, but various cupcakes with little cupids nestled in the icing.
Edward held up a tiny piece of the red velvet cupcake. "Practice for our own wedding," he said, waggling his brows.
"Just don't smear it on my face. If you do that, you'll be divorced faster than the ink will dry on our marriage certificate," I said, giving him a stern look.
"I'd never smear it on you. I'd rather have some fun with whipped cream and chocolate sauce in the privacy of our bedroom," he purred, bringing the cupcake to my mouth. I eagerly accepted it, moaning quietly at how delicious the cupcake was. Edward let out a strangled whimper because my moan was definitely one of my sex noises that got him all riled up. Sorry, baby. I fed Edward some of my cupcake and our table was making gagging noises.
"Shut up," I laughed. "Practice makes perfect!"
"You two are practically eye fucking and mouth fucking each other," Paul said, leaning against Marcus's seat. "Save it for your own wedding."
"You were just as lovey-dovey with your hubby," I argued.
"I have a reason. Just married. You are engaged. So, knock it off," Paul snickered.
"Be nice, baby," Rob said, wrapping his arm around Paul's waist and handing him a glass of champagne. "Let them enjoy each other. I think it's sweet."
"Yeah, we're sweet," I giggled, getting up and sitting on Edward's lap.
"Wait until you celebrate your first wedding anniversary," Angela said.
"Or when he decides to take a shit while you're in the shower," Jessica offered.
"Ewww!" Becca wailed.
"That was an eye opener," Jessica said, smacking Mike's arm.
"What? I clogged the downstairs bathroom," Mike argued. "I had to finish."
"Yeah, gross. Edward, please don't ever do that," I said, grimacing at my fiancé.
"Duly noted and I vow to never take a dump while you're in the room," he snickered.
"This conversation has gone down the toilet," Paul sang. "Off to another table. Dancing starts in ten minutes."
And it did start in ten minutes. With the Cupid Shuffle. When it came to the 'bouquet toss,' both guys shot off arrows from some children's toy. Edward and I caught them, but Rob and Paul were aiming right for us. The reception lasted well into the night and I was quite drunk by the time Edward dragged me away. We stayed another night at the Edgewater, but no sexy times happened. I passed out, in my dress while Edward was going to the bathroom.
Thankfully, he was only peeing.
I think?
xx AIDA xx
The next month was smooth sailing. I was doing my job, getting a great deal of praise from my boss and actually enjoying what I was doing. Edward was working on the sequel for his game while finalizing everything for the conference that we were leaving for in a few days. He had finished the storyline, asking me to read what he had come up with and ask for some suggestions, which honestly shocked me. This was his baby. However, I was intrigued by the story and asked if he had the same thing for the first game.
Perhaps he'd let me put the storylines into a novel based on his games?
We also found a house that we both liked. We put an offer in and were waiting to hear from the family to see if the accepted it. I was somewhat apprehensive that the family would say no since we went nearly $50,000 below their listing price. It was also bigger than I anticipated, but Edward assured me that it was well within our price range. Maybe his price range. I could afford a box in the park, not the mansion he has chosen. I really liked it. It was elegant and needed very little work done before we could move in. I was just panicking at the cost of it. Plus, who would take care of the lawn, shoveling the driveway, mail delivery? We were only going to be living there a few months out of the year.
Edward assured me that he would hire a caretaker to manage the property. Yet another expense that I was stressing about. I couldn't stop obsessing over the house, my move, Edward's impending departure, our wedding and everything else that could cause me stress. I was packing our bags for the trip to San Francisco when Edward breezed into the apartment.
"Lucy, I'm home," he said in a bad accent.
"In the bedroom, Ricky," I replied, my voice somber.
He walked in, carrying a large poster board and an impish grin. "What's wrong? Why do you have your constipated, stressed out face on?" Edward asked.
"Because I'm stressed," I said, jutting out my lip. "I'm worried about the house. What if they say yes? What if we can't afford it? What if…"
"Bella, breathe," he said, taking my hands in his. "We can afford it. Do you remember what I said about my trust and inheritance?"
"You have a shit ton of money. You've told me this, but I want to be an equal partner in our relationship, Edward," I whined. Damn, I sounded like a brat.
"My love, you are an equal partner," he said. I gave him the stink eye. "Okay, let me be honest with you. I'm planning, and don't freak out, on buying the house for you for our wedding."
"EDWARD ANTHONY CULLEN! ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR FREAKING MIND?!" I shrieked.
"I couldn't quite hear you, Bella," he deadpanned, rubbing his ear. "Look, Bella. I know you want to start our lives on the island, but you want the connection to your parents. Your friends. If having the house up here will keep those relationships alive, I'll gladly buy you the house."
"But, the house is expensive," I hissed.
"The cost of the house is less than what I make in interest in six months, Bella. It's a drop in the bucket. None of us Cullen's really have to work, but we choose to. You saw me before I started working on the game. I was bored out of my mind, my eyes crossing and going batshit stir crazy," he laughed. He sobered quickly, taking my hands in his. He tugged me into his arms, looking into my eyes. "Gorgeous girl, in five short months, what's mine is yours and what's yours is mine. I want to do this for you, love."
"But, I want to contribute," I frowned.
"You can contribute by paying for the caretaking service that I hire. Let me buy you this house. I want to provide for my wife. My family." Edward gently laid his hand on my flat belly. We both knew we wanted a family and we wanted to start quickly. After our honeymoon, I was not going back on the shot and letting nature take its course. "Do you understand?"
"I understand, Edward. I know why you want to do it, but I feel guilty about mooching off you," I grumped.
"It's not mooching if it's going to be half yours in a few months, silly girl," he chuckled. "Is that all that's bothering you?"
"My biggest worry, yes," I frowned.
"Well, stop fretting. We're going to San Francisco and spend some time, just the two of us. After the conference, of course, but a nice vacation for you and me. It'll be amazing and romantic."
"What's the poster?" I asked, gesturing to the large bag on our bed.
"Oh! The final cover art for Elvendore," he said, carefully removing it from the bag. "What do you think?"
The picture was dark, mysterious with an elf dominating the picture. The likeness of the man on the cover was very similar to Edward, with bright green eyes and a vicious looking bow and arrow in front of his face. Surrounding the picture were various depictions of scenes from the game and it made me want to play, even though I had zero skills in computer games. "The character looks like you, but with pointy ears," I said.
"Jane was adamant on trying to get my likeness on the box somewhere. She found a picture of me, encouraging the artist to use it as a frame of reference. I hated it, but when he showed me this, I actually thought it worked," he said, wrinkling his nose. "Anyhow, I'm supposed to autograph it and get it framed, bringing it down to the show. The company is going to raffle it off, raising money for a charity of my choice."
"Well, what are you waiting for?" I quipped.
"A silver Sharpie," he chuckled. I smacked his ass, skipping to the office and finding one of my many silver Sharpies. Don't ask me why I have so many. I just do. I made sure it worked before walking back to the bedroom. Handing him the marker, he signed his name with a flourish, dating for the final day of the conference. "Now, they gave me a frame and I'm supposed to bring this thing to San Francisco."
"How is it going to fit in your luggage?" I asked.
"I have no clue. I'm almost tempted to air express it to the hotel and keep it there until we arrive. I can do it tomorrow while you're at work and then ask the hotel to call me when it gets there," he mused.
"Makes sense," I said, wrapping my arms around his waist. "Now, you need to start packing since we're leaving the day after tomorrow."
"I know. I just don't know what to bring," he retorted, wrinkling his nose.
"Clothes, goof," I deadpanned.
"Ha, ha," he replied, arching a brow. "I know I have to bring clothes. But, what's the attire for this shindig? Business? Casual? Suits?"
"A friend of mine in the tech department is going to the conference. He's wearing jeans, khakis and button-downs. Then again, he's not at the conference as a presenter, but as a spectator and representative of the paper. I'd probably lean towards business casual, with a few suits, just in case?" I suggested.
Edward nodded, walking toward the closet. An hour later, and some fooling around, he was mostly packed for the trip. He just needed his toiletries, laptop and business cards, which he was going to bring on his carryon. I'd pack tomorrow since I needed to do laundry.
The next day at work was hopping. There was huge drug bust and it was all hands on deck for the coverage. I got home well after nine at night, but had written a stellar, kick-ass story for the front page. I was exhausted and the last thing I wanted to do was pack, think or even breathe. At the apartment, I dragged my body inside and tossed my work bag into the foyer. Edward came out of our bedroom, holding one of my t-shirts. "I was worried, gorgeous girl," he said, crossing over to me and enfolding me into his arms.
"Sorry," I yawned, collapsing against his chest. "I had to finish this story about this huge drug bust that was discovered at the docks. Some Russian family had been smuggling in illegal drugs in with fruit and animals. They had paid off the customs officers, even giving them a part of the cut of the sale of the drugs. Anyhow, a random inspection by the feds led them to a huge cache of drugs in an abandoned storage facility. Two of the heads of the organization were taking inventory and were busted. The street value of the drugs was well into the tens of millions; the biggest drug bust in history."
"And you wrote the story?" Edward asked, tucking my hair behind my ear.
"Miranda hand selected me. I had to make sure it was the best I could offer. I just snuck it in under the wire," I said, smiling proudly but the adrenaline of the day wearing off. "Now, I'm bushed. Completely exhausted."
"Well, be grateful that you are going on vacation with me," he snickered.
"I still have to pack. Plus, Miranda gave me an assignment to complete while I'm in San Francisco. She wants me to cover the conference. Go to some of the different presentations. I'm co-authoring a piece with Bill, the tech guy. He's taking the hardware, new advances in gaming technology, while I'm doing a feature on the latest and newest games," I explained. "I do want to interview you and Jane about Elvendore. It's already getting buzz. Bill can't wait to buy it."
"You'll be my first and only interview," Edward said, giving me a wry grin.
"Well, Jane and New Moon Gaming may have more to say about that," I teased. "Seriously, though. I do not want to pack. I wish I could click my heels and my clothes magically jump into my suitcase."
"Click your heels, love," Edward snickered. I arched a brow. "Do it!" Slowly, I clicked my heels and he swept me into his arms. Carrying me into the bedroom, he placed me next to the bed and revealed my nearly packed suitcase sitting on the chair. "There are a few things that you need to add, but I packed most of what was in the laundry along with a few flirty dresses and some sexy new lingerie."
"Did you go shopping?" I asked.
"Yep. I needed some wrinkle-free dress pants and I saw something at Victoria's Secret and La Perla. I had to get it for you, baby," he purred. Edward's eyes darkened and he took my face in his hands. Hungrily, he kissed me, causing my knees to give out. Holy hell. "Easy, Bella." His arms caught me, gently pushing me onto the mattress. "Now, all you have to do is add your toiletries, makeup, hair stuff and shoes. I wasn't sure what you wanted with the shoes."
I blinked a few times, trying to comprehend what he had said to me. My brain was so thoroughly gone. "You packed for me?"
"Yeah," he chuckled, showcasing the open suitcase like he was Vanna White. Getting up, I thumbed through the clothes and was quite impressed with his choices. They were fun, flirty and just a bit sexy.
"You did amazing, baby," I smiled, turning to hug him tightly. I felt him smile against my hair. "Now, I'm going to find shoes, pack what toiletries I can and some other goodies."
"I've got all of that in my luggage," he purred, cupping my chin to look at him. Edward's eyes were swirling with desire. I whimpered, wanting to do something with him, but I was exhausted that the mere thought of packing shoes, my hair crap and toiletries made my head ache. "But, we have all this week to make love and be goofy tourists. Based on your droopy eyes and posture, you're done. Let's get you finished up and then go to bed. We've got to be at the airport by nine."
"Kay," I said, collapsing against his warm, hard chest. "Love you, Edward."
"Oh, Bella, I love you more," he chuckled. "Now, let's get this done so we can go to sleep." Nodding, I let him lead me to the closet. I picked out four pairs of shoes, two pairs of heels, a pair of flats and a pair of funky sneakers. Tomorrow, I'd wear another pair of flats that would go with most of the outfits in my suitcase. Once done with choosing the shoes, Edward helped me into some pajamas and let me do my nighttime routine while he locked up, set his alarm and moved the suitcases onto the floor.
I barely remembered going to bed. The next thing I knew, the alarm was going off and Edward was encouraging me to shower and get dressed. Wearing a pair of skinny jeans, a tank top, and a sweater, I was dressed for the flight down to San Francisco. My bags were packed and waiting for us to go to the lobby. New Moon was providing us a limo from the apartment to the airport and another one from the San Francisco airport to the hotel. Edward made sure he had his laptop, our tickets and his own bags before we went down to the lobby when the security guard called up to the apartment.
An uneventful flight and a quick trip to the hotel, we were settled in one of the suites at the Hotel Palomar. Edward had to go over to the Moscone Center to get his credentials, as did I. However, he would be setting up his display while I would begin my assignment on the conference.
Hopefully, the work would be easy before we got to play and enjoy our time together in San Francisco.
A/N: We'll be finishing up San Francisco in Edward's POV. I'm probably going to breeze over the conference, focusing more on the touristy things in San Francisco (any San Francisco natives who can tell me fun things to do?). Also, we're going to see a blast from Bella's past. Who do you think?
Pictures from this chapter will be on my tumblr and blog. Links for both of those are on my profile. I do apologize for the lack of lemons when there clearly could have been. BUT, sometimes the lemons are unnecessary. I do promise that there will be some citrus in the next chapter, along with pervy pic teasers. XD…You can also find me on Facebook: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation or on twitter: tufano79.
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