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).
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?
Chapter Twenty-Nine: Elvendore, Alcatraz, and Napa, Oh My!
EPOV
"Edward, I'll meet you back here when I'm done. I'll send you a text," Bella said, adjusting her bag. We were at the Moscone Center, picking up our credentials. I was also meeting with Jane, going over my schedule for the conference. Elvendore was scheduled for its big reveal on Wednesday at New Moon's premier party in the auditorium. There were two other games being featured besides mine, but from the hype that was building, Elvendore was going to be a big deal. Presales were through the roof. The only other game that was this popular was Call of Duty: Black Ops.
To say I was giddy was an understatement.
"Edward! You're spacing, baby," Bella giggled, adjusting my collar of my dress shirt.
"Sorry, gorgeous girl," I chuckled, kissing her lips. "I'm just…yeah, in shock over all of this."
"You should be. Now, go kick some ass with Jane and I'll meet you back here," she said, pointing to the entrance. I nodded, kissing her lips again and walking toward the lounge for the presenters and gaming executives. I adjusted my own laptop bag along with the framed poster with my autograph before I walked into the lounge. I immediately saw Jane. She smiled at me, teetering on her too-high heels.
"Edward! I'm glad you made it!" she said, taking the poster from my hand. "Was your flight okay?"
"Fabulous and the accommodations are amazing," I beamed. She smiled, leading me to small cubicle that was set up for New Moon. "What's the plan for this shindig?"
"Well, first, smile pretty," Jane laughed, clicking my photo as I gave her a crooked grin. "For your credentials." She sent it to a printer and soon my IDs were printed and placed on a lanyard that I had to wear anytime I was in the Moscone Center. "Now, the plan. Tomorrow, I want you to just enjoy the conference. Look at some of the other games, make connections with some other game developers and see what else is out there. Tomorrow evening, we have the presentation in the auditorium. Dress your best and prepare for a ton of great publicity! After the big reveal, there will be some questions from the press. In addition to that, you have a few interviews with some gaming magazines, local newspapers and some bloggers. That will happen on Thursday morning into early Thursday afternoon. While that's happening, your game will be at our exhibit for people to try out. Then, the remainder of the conference, you'll be at the New Moon exhibit, signing autographs, speaking with more press, gamers and providing photo ops for your new fans. I've laid it all out in your schedule." She handed me a file, which I opened and glanced through it. "On Friday evening, I'd like to take you and your fiancée out for dinner to celebrate, hopefully, a successful debut in the gaming world."
"That sounds awesome, Jane," I smiled. "Hectic, but awesome."
"Excellent," she replied. "Now, why don't you head back to your hotel and enjoy the calm before the storm." We shook hands. I left the lounge and wandered around some of the floor before heading to the entrance where Bella was meeting me. She was typing on her cell phone. My own phone chirped from my pocket. I chuckled as I caught up with her, wrapping my arms around her waist.
"Oh!" Bella squealed. "Edward…I just texted you."
"I know, love," I said, nuzzling her neck. "You all good with your credentials?"
"Yep," she said, waving her own lanyard. "Full press access. I also got my schedule for the next few days. I'm on the press tour for your game and I have a twenty minute sit down with you on Thursday morning."
"You know, I'll give you more of an interview than twenty minutes," I said, tugging on Bella's hand. We walked out onto the street, meandering back to the Hotel Palomar.
"I know," Bella said, snuggling against to my side. "I have to get a few photos of you for the paper, but I'll get them during the conference." We walked, hand in hand, back to the hotel. "You hungry, Edward?"
"I'm hungry for something other than food," I purred. Tugging her into the hotel, we went up to the room, enjoying more than just the food.
The next morning, Bella was off to check out some new games from Blizzard. I met up with one of the New Moon developers, Donovan, who was working with me on the second Elvendore game. We wandered around the conference, watching the newest games, seeing the latest technologies and interacting with fellow gamers and developers. In the late afternoon, I went back to the hotel to shower and change into my suit. I didn't see Bella all day. I knew she was interviewing some other game developers and was collaborating with Billy on the article. We tried to meet up for lunch, but the timing never worked out.
Wearing a black suit with a green tie and white shirt, I went down to the auditorium. I was nervous for the presentation. I had created a six minute computer animated trailer of my game. I thought it was enticing and exciting. I hoped that the audience and the buyers would feel the same. Smoothing my tie and making sure I had the jump drive with the video on it, I left the hotel room.
I arrived in the auditorium fifteen minutes later. I handed my jump drive to the technician who was going to show the previews of the games on the big screen. Jane was making sure that everything was in order, running around like a chicken with her head cut off. I asked if I could do something, but Jane just pushed me into a fully stocked green room backstage of the auditorium. I nervously waited for the presentation to begin. However, a ruckus outside of the green room piqued my attention.
"Miss, you can't go in there," grumbled a male voice.
"Jane gave me permission," Bella snapped.
"You don't have the right credentials. You are a part of the press. They have to wait until after the presentation before they can speak to the developers. Now, turn your pretty little ass and leave."
Oh, hell no!
"Listen, you moronic, chauvinistic prick," Bella snarled. I snuck out of the green room and slid between her and the massive security guard. I glared at his name badge.
"Morty?"I smirked. "I suggest you back away. My fiancée will not hesitate to kick your ass and from the shoes she's wearing, it'll be quite painful. Secondly, I suggest you look for another job because your actions and behavior are highly unprofessional, rude and…"
"Sexist!" Bella said, sneering at Morty. "My ass is great but the only person who gets to make any commentary on it is him. My fiancé. The man that Jane gave me permission to see!"
"What's going on here?" Jane asked as she approached the standoff between Morty and me and Bella.
"This lunatic said that you gave her permission to come back to the green room. I told her to leave. Nicely," Morty snorted.
"Liar," Bella growled.
"I have a distinct feeling that I should believe her," Jane said, arching a brow. "She may be press, but I gave her permission to see her Edward Cullen, her fiancé." She pulled out her phone, pressing it to her ear. "Lenny, it's Jane. I need you to rectify a security situation. Your guard, Mortimer, made some pretty scathing accusations to the fiancée of one of my developers. He needs to go. Permanently…Great! I'll have a report to you at the end of the evening tonight, Lenny." Jane snapped her phone shut. With a glare, she pointed to the door. "According to your boss, you are on leave until the official statements can be delivered to him. Lenny will contact you, informing you if you do have a job after the conference. Leave." She snapped her fingers and Morty jumped, scampering away from the barely five foot Jane who looked like a child but had more bite than a prized pit bull. "Now, you two, use the next fifteen minutes to do whatever it is you do." Jane smiled, turning on her heel to finish setting up for the presentations.
"Are you okay, Bella?" I asked, gently guiding her into the green room. "I heard what he said."
"Seriously, if you hadn't walked out, my stiletto would have been shoved in his ear," Bella deadpanned. "Asshole." I frowned, wrapping her into my embrace. "How are you doing?"
"More concerned about you, love," I said, pressing my cheek to her hair.
"I'll be fine. Mortimer is probably out of a job and he will never see my 'pretty little ass' again," she giggled. Dragging me to a dilapidated old leather sofa, she pushed me to sit. Once I was settled, she sat down on my lap, which I liked immensely. Anytime I had Bella in my arms, it was perfect. She fussed with my tie and smoothed my lapels. "All you need is the ears and you'd be Larios from your game."
"I'm shocked you remembered his name," I smiled.
"Edward, I've had to do my research. I spent most of my day, reading and picking Billy's brain on what was good about each game and what needed improvement. Plus, I really like the story of Elvendore. I was thinking that I could possibly novelize it. Take your game and create a fantasy novel to go along with, delve deeper into the character of Larios, Allynn and Drax. I'd work closely, obviously, with you, but I'd be the author," Bella blushed. "That's if you want it…"
"I want it, Bella. That would be amazing," I smiled.
"Good because Jane is already working with a book publisher to get the ball rolling. She wants the first book out by Christmas," Bella giggled. The crowd was entering the auditorium. Their sounds were filtering into the green room. "I should get to my seat. I'm close to the front, thanks to Jane, but I want to make sure that my digital recorder is ready to go." Bella stood up, smoothing her pencil skirt. "I'm so proud of you, Edward."
"I couldn't have done this without you, gorgeous girl," I said, wrapping her in my arms.
"You could have but being with me was the impetus to get this going," Bella said, taking my face in her warm hands. "I love you, baby. Kick some ass and perhaps, tonight, you'll get a congratulatory blow job."
I smiled crookedly, dipping my head to capture my girl's lips. We kissed for a few moments, moaning quietly at the promise of naked fun time. Pulling back, I breathed heavily. "As great as that sounds, I think I need to taste my fiancée tonight," I purred. She whimpered, gripping my lapels tightly. "I love you so much, Mrs. Cullen."
"I love you more, Mr. Cullen," she said. "I'm going to go before I drag you into the bathroom and beg you to fuck me. Yeah…um, yeah." She kissed me chastely before darting out of the green room. Once she was gone, I discreetly adjusted my boner. I did not want to walk out on stage, premiering my game with a huge hard on for my future wife.
Ten minutes later, the lights dimmed and the sounds of New Moon's introductory music filled the auditorium. On the screen, clips and snippets of some of their most famous games flew by. Pictures of the developers, artists, musicians and fans clicked past until the music ended with the New Moon logo shimmering on the screen. Jane stepped forward, standing on a small lift behind the podium "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Jane Lewis and I'm the senior vice president of our gaming division at New Moon Gaming…" She prattled on about the history of the company, some of the famous games and some of the new developments they created with their state of the art developers, technicians and graphic designers.
Then, Jane introduced one of the new games, one geared for children. The artist spent a half hour demonstrating the game, explaining its attributes in helping children with their motor skills and their imagination with the open ended storyline. Next up was a cop-based game. The graphics were pretty amazing, but it was truly lacking in the story. The developer was going for shock value with the cursing, graphic nudity and gore.
My game was last. Jane smiled as she introduced me. "Our final game is one that many of you have already been talking about. It's fantasy, romance, magic, visual artistry and pure amazement. Without further ado, Elvish Fantasy: Conquering Elvendore." She hit the lights and my trailer began, with the music that Stephen and I wrote for the game. The other two artists didn't create trailers. The only had screen captures of their games. I created a six minute animated preview of some of the best bits, most alluring magical spells, romantic moments, and a sneak peak at the climax.
The trailer finished and I stepped to the podium. I shared my backstory of the game, showing some early screen captures of the drafts I had saved on my hard drive. I also told them about the creative process of writing the score, which was going to be for sale through New Moon Gaming and the upcoming novelization of the game, which was still in the works. I found Bella when I said that, winking at my brilliant and sexy fiancée. I finished with the announcement of a second game, continuing the saga of Larios and some new characters. I finished my portion of the presentation another video clip, a thirty second teaser that I had created for the media. It included some of the praise my game had already received and included its release date.
Stepping back, I nodded my head and listened as the crowd cheered excitedly. The other two developers received polite applause, but I was happy to say that I got a standing ovation. I'm the shit. I know it. Walking back with my fellow developers, I smiled and a few photos were taken before the presentation was concluded. Some reporters came up to the apron of the stage, asking for an interview with me, but they were ushered toward Jane's assistant, who would possibly schedule them if it was feasible.
That night, Bella was insatiable. She was so proud of me, bringing me pleasure until early in the morning. I tried to return the favor, but she said it was all about me. That will be rectified, my gorgeous girl. I promise you. We both collapsed around three and groaned when the front desk called at eight. We both hobbled into the shower, feeling the after effects of our quite physical coupling. With a kiss, Bella went to another presentation and I walked to the small room where I was giving my press interviews.
Dear God. I never wanted to shoot myself more. It was the same questions, over and over again. However, Jane told me to be enthusiastic and answer them with fervor. The only light in my day was when Bella came. We spent her twenty minutes kissing and canoodling since she knew the answers to the questions she was asking. My interviews went well into the evening, due to the rousing success of the premier of Elvish Fantasy: Conquering Elvendore. I got back to my room after eight and collapsed on the bed.
"Okay, I know that you booked this room for the remainder of our stay, but after your hellish day of today, I worked my magic and found us a delightful spa in Napa for the last two nights of our vacation. We both need it," Bella said, running her fingers through my hair. I nodded, my throat raw from talking all day. "Now, let's take a bath and go to bed early. I can only imagine how exhausted you are." Again, I nodded, allowing myself to be dragged into the bathroom, where we enjoyed a soak in the Jacuzzi tub before we went to bed.
Friday was a bit better. Since Bella and I had gone to sleep early, I was more alert and was eager to interact with the people who were going to buy the game. Almost all of the feedback was positive. The few negative reviews were people who were frustrated with one of the major battles that killed their character nearly every time. It was a tough battle, but it wasn't unwinnable.
Jane did suggest making it a little easier but that was a simple fix. I'd write the code once we returned from San Francisco. At the conclusion of the conference, my poster was raffled off and a woman from Phoenix walked away with it. Additionally, my game was awarded several awards, including best new game of the conference and most anticipated release.
With the end of the conference, we all went out for dinner with Jane on New Moon's tab. She brought her girlfriend, Mandy, who had flown in for a romantic getaway over the weekend. Dinner was a celebration of sorts. There was flowing wine, champagne and delicious food. Almost everyone was happy except for the guy who had created the cop-based game. He had been torn to shreds by the critics and was quite upset about it. He didn't stay very long at the dinner.
Jane, Mandy, Bella and I, we went out to a club, Badlands. It was a gay bar and I was hit on by so many guys. However, Mandy and Jane loved it because they were not flirted with, nor was Bella. We dancing on the dance floor, having a fun time when Bella stiffened.
"You've got to be kidding me," Bella deadpanned.
"What?" I asked.
She pointed to two men, kissing feverishly in a booth. "The one in the pink polo is my ex-fiancé," Bella said, wrinkling her nose.
"Do you want to go?"
"No. I'm just shocked to see him so affectionate with someone," Bella frowned. "He was never like that with me."
"My gorgeous girl, don't take this wrong way, but you have tits and are lacking a dick. You don't have the right parts," I chuckled. She swatted at my arm, giving me a look that clearly said 'duh.' Nuzzling her ear, I licked her neck. "I happen to love all of your parts. I can't wait to see them later on tonight."
"Is that a promise?" she asked, giving me a seductive wink.
"A vow, Mrs. Cullen," I said, pulling her flush to my body. Sliding my leg between hers, we danced quite provocatively. Jane and Mandy cheered us on as we slithered and swayed to the deep bass that caused our insides to quiver. It was loud in the club. An hour on the dance floor made all of us thirsty. Jane and I went to the bar to get some drinks while Bella and Mandy went to freshen up in the bathroom. As I was waiting for Bella's vodka cranberry, I felt someone tap my arm. "Yes?"
"That girl you're with. Is that Bella Swan?" asked a handsome man.
"Yeah. She's on assignment for the gaming conference. Plus she's my fiancée," I answered, turning to face him. His brow furrowed and then he sighed deeply. "Everything alright?"
"I'm glad that I didn't break her. I'm Tyler Crowley. We were engaged to be married but on our wedding day, I couldn't do it. I'm in love with Eric," he said, holding out his hand.
"I'm Edward Cullen," I said, shaking his proffered hand. "I guess your loss is my gain."
"That's for sure. I loved Bella; I still do, but I couldn't be the man she wanted. Seeing her with you, proves it. She's a sexual woman who deserves to be happy, a man who is willing to kiss the ground she walks on and give her everything she wants. I couldn't do that. She wasn't Eric. I thought I could marry her, live the lie for the sake of my parents who are very conservative and anti-gay, but I couldn't. I just couldn't."
Bella came back, wrapping herself around me. She squeaked quietly when she noticed Tyler. "Hey, Tyler. I thought you had left," she said.
"We were getting ready to, but I had to come see you. See how you were doing?" he smiled.
"I'm fantastic," she beamed, kissing my jaw. "Have you two met?"
"Yep," I replied.
"We have and I couldn't be happier for you," Tyler said. "Can see your engagement ring?" Bella gleefully thrust her hand toward her ex. He blew out a low whistle. "Damn, that is some rock! Gorgeous, Bells."
"He did amazing," Bella purred. "Proposed on New Year's, right at midnight. It was very romantic and perfect and…everything I've ever dreamed of."
"Good," Tyler said, holding open his arms. Bella gave me a furtive look. I smiled reassuringly. She hugged her ex and he whispered something in her ear. Her arms tightened around him, nodding eagerly. Pulling apart, he kissed her forehead. "Be happy, Bells."
"I already am, Tyler. You, too." He blushed, looking at a short Asian man. The man waved and Tyler gave Bella another hug and shook my hand before joining his companion. They left the club. I wrapped my arm around Bella's slender waist. "I'm glad I saw him. I needed that."
"Closure?" I asked.
"Yeah. I mean, I essentially told him to fuck off on our wedding day and I accepted his money for our apartment, but I was still left with this lingering resentment or something toward him. Seeing him, not feeling anything towards and flaunting our relationship in his face, it felt fucking amazing," Bella squealed.
"What did he say to you?"
"He said that if you were gay and he was single, you'd be his," Bella smirked. "But, he's thrilled that you're mine and that he can see how much you love me."
"And I do love you, Bella." I pressed her hand to my chest. "All of this. My heart. My soul. My body. It's all yours."
She put her other hand on top of mine, smiling beautifully. "As I'm yours, Mr. Cullen. I love you so much. I want to show you how much I do," she cooed.
"Oh, my dear Mrs. Cullen, I believe it's my turn to shower you with my affections. Turnabout's fair play," I smiled, catching Jane's eye. I waved at her, dragging my fiancée out of the club and back to the hotel.
You can only guess what we did for the rest of the night…
xx AIDA xx
"What do you want to do, Bella?" I asked as I traced random patterns on her smooth, creamy skin. She was laying on her stomach with her head on my belly. "As much as I love you and love making love to you, I want to explore."
"Are you sore, baby?" Bella giggled.
"A little," I grimaced. "I think I sprained my cock. I just can't get enough of you."
"Me neither, but I'm a little rough around the edges, too. Let me grab my computer so we can plan the rest of our trip. Don't forget, Tuesday and Wednesday, we're staying at the Milliken Creek Inn and Spa for two days of rest and relaxation. I've already booked it. We check out on noon on Thursday," she said, getting up from the bed. She walked to the table, gloriously naked to grab her charging laptop.
"Bella, love, we leave on Wednesday," I said, arching a brow, sitting up against the head board.
"No, we don't. I've changed our flight to Thursday when I booked the spa. Miranda was okay with me taking off until next Monday, just so long as I get my article done for the paper. It's nearly finished. I just need to edit it, add some photos and then submit it." She walked back over to the bed, placing the computer on my lap. "I figured I could do that while you showered. It won't take long. I've already got the photos selected and editing is a breeze." She picked up my shirt from the night before, buttoning it just below her breasts. She snapped her fingers. "Eyes are up here, babe."
"I know, babe," I chuckled. "Just seeing you wear my clothes. That's the biggest fucking turn on. Ever. I'm surprised that the computer didn't go flying across the room with my hard on."
"Let me see," she purred, moving the laptop. I shimmied the sheet down, displaying my very hard and leaking cock. Bella leaned forward, swirling her tongue on the head of my dick before covering it with the sheet. "That better stay hard, Edward. Because after we make plans, we're getting it on."
I pouted. My arousal was downright painful despite the fact we had just made love a half hour previous. Bella snuggled next to me, opening up the web browser and her fingers flying. "Oooh, how about we do the touristy stuff that doesn't require tickets and stuff today and tomorrow. Golden Gate Park, Lombard Street, Pier Thirty-Nine and Muir Woods to see the redwoods!"
"Sounds good to me," I said, nuzzling Bella's neck and kissing her soft, fragrant skin. She melted against me before her fingers were flying on the computer again.
"Jane gave us tickets to Alcatraz for Monday," she panted. "She and Mandy were going to go but they have to leave because of some New Moon drama. It's related to the cop game developer." I pulled her earlobe between my teeth, flicking it with my tongue. My hands were now moving to her body, trying to touch her creamy flesh. "How about dinner in China Town on Monday night?"
"Perfect," I purred. "Now, we have plans." I closed her computer, putting it on the nightstand next to me. In the blink of an eye, I was hovering over her. She was breathing heavily, looking up at me with hooded eyes. With one hand, I ran my palm down the length of her lithe body, unbuttoning the single button that held my shirt closed.
"Why can't I get enough of you?" she asked, spreading her legs. Her pink pussy lips were glistening with her arousal. I fell into the cradle of her legs, rocking against her and allowing my cock to become coated in her juices. With each movement, I pressed against her clit. "Fuck, Edward, I need you inside."
"I know, love," I said, grasping my cock, teasing her folds before lining up with her entrance. "I need you even more." I pushed in and reveled in how tight and wet she was. Bella moaned, hitching her legs higher around my hips. "Never in my life have I craved another woman's touch like I do yours. I love making love to you. I love touching you. I love you." I thrust in and out of her slowly. She moaned, squeezing her muscles around me. Her hands were traveling over my bare torso, teasing and taunting me. I leaned back, palming her breasts and I moved faster within her. Bella reached between her legs, circling her clit as I made love to her. "That's it, baby. So fucking perfect."
"Hmmmm," Bella whimpered, widening her legs. I lifted her off the bed, increasing my thrusting. I could feel how this was impacting her. Her arousal coated my cock, dripping onto the bed. "Edward…more…please?"
That was her code for she wanted me to fuck her ass. We'd thoroughly enjoyed every moment of our anal play and I never realized that it could bring us to a deeper level of intimacy. Sliding out of her slick pussy, I gazed into her needy but lust-filled eyes. I wet my finger inside of her and prepped her ass, allowing her to relax. "Let me love you, Bella," I cooed as I felt that she was ready. Slowly, I eased inside of her. She moaned, shuddering violently. Her pink lips were coated with her juices, flowing freely from her body. I flexed my hips, probing deeper. "That's it, gorgeous girl. Take all of me inside of your perfect, tight ass."
"Fuck," she moaned, pressing two fingers inside of her pussy. "I love this. I love when you talk dirty to me. Edward, I love you so much."
"As I love you, baby," I said, holding onto her hips. I held her still as I controlled my movements. She was fucking herself with her fingers as I fucked her ass. I was whimpering like a baby at the site. My fiancée, open for me, turned on for me as I made love to her in the most intimate of places. I had to keep myself from coming too quickly. Yes, I was experiencing sensory overload, but I had to feel her come first. She was close from the amount of lubrication I was seeing on her fingers and dripping down her inner thighs. Plus, she was gripping me tightly with her ass, barely able to allow me to move. "Oh, Bella…I'm so…"
"Me, too," she chanted over and over again. "Come, Edward. Please?" With a feral growl, I increased the power in my thrusting. Bella was staring at me, her eyes filled with complete euphoria and love. Just as my body was about to explode, Bella lost it. Her eyes rolled back and her release coating both of our bodies. Her climax triggered mine. My own orgasm was buried deep within her, filling her with my seed.
I stayed inside of her as long as I could before my cock softened. Once it did, I lowered her body, rolling onto my side and tried to get my breathing and heart under control. Gathering Bella in my arms after I gained some semblance of sanity, I carried her to the shower. I washed her hair and carefully buffed her exhausted body. She snuggled against me, pressing soft kisses to my chest. "You okay, love?" I asked.
"Never better," she said, looking up at me. I arched a brow. I was definitely feeling the lovemaking in my bones. I could only imagine what she was experiencing. "Okay, I'm a little sore." I kneaded her shoulders, feeling the knots in her back. "A lot sore, but honestly, I know that in less than a month, I won't have this."
"Bella," I frowned. "I hate leaving you, but…"
"I understand, Edward. I do. I'm just going to miss you something awful. Emails, phone calls and Skype calls are not the same as this," she replied, wrapping her arms around my waist. I sighed, holding her tightly in my arms underneath the hot spray of the shower. Eventually getting out of the shower, we dried off and Bella shooed me out of the bathroom so she could do her hair and apply some makeup. I dressed in a pair of dark jeans, a button down and some sneakers. I was officially off the clock and the business attire was no longer needed.
Bella came out fifteen minutes later, her hair braided down her shoulder and some light makeup. She bowed deeply, gesturing to the bathroom. I arched a brow. "You're scruffy, Edward. Shave, please?"
"You don't like when I have stubble?" I teased, rubbing my cheek along her neck.
She squealed, dancing away. "I do, but I've got some pretty serious beard burn. Please?" she pouted, caressing my cheeks. I gave her a crooked grin and nodded. She beamed, kissing my lips softly before shoving me into the bathroom. Removing my button down, I lathered up my face and shaved it clean. Wiping down the sink, applying some aftershave and fussing with my hair, I redressed and went back into the suite. Bella was reading on her computer, editing, presumably.
"You ready to go exploring?" I asked.
"Just about finished," she said, typing on the computer. With a swipe of the mouse and few more key strokes, she beamed. "Done! You got a stellar write up from Billy."
"Billy?" I asked.
"It wouldn't have been fair or subjective if I had written the review of your game, Edward. I think you're amazing," Bella chided, slipping on a pair of flats. "So, Billy wrote the review for Elvendore while I edited his photos he took. From what I understand, the story will be run in the technology section on Sunday with some follow up on Monday and Tuesday."
"Sweet."
"Now, let's go play," Bella said, tugging me out of the corner suite.
We decided to go to Pier Thirty-Nine first since we both were starving. There were some delicious restaurants that we could choose from. A short cab ride got us to the pier and we wandered, hand in hand, munching on snacks from street vendors. Once our bellies were full, we got tickets for a double decker sightseeing tour but it wasn't due to leave for a couple of hours. We decided to kill time at the aquarium and Sea Lion Center.
We boarded one of the trolleys for a one-hour tour. If we had planned it better, we could have taken a three-hour tour, but this was perfect for us today. I was fading fast and so was Bella. Hopefully the tour will revitalize us so we could hopefully go to Golden Gate Park. That way we could spend all day at Muir Woods tomorrow. The tour ended and we got off the trolley. Bella was still tired, but wanted to go to Golden Gate Park. I suggested we eat a meal, sitting at a restaurant, so we could recuperate some of our energy. We were both dressed casually so we decided to go to Bubba Gump's Shrimp Co. Being so close to the water had to ensure that the seafood was going to be fresh.
Finishing dinner, we caught a cab to go to Golden Gate Park. We walked through the beautiful park, taking pictures and just being two people in love. Bella was fairly quiet and I knew it was due to the fact that after Easter, I'd be heading back to Brazil. I hated leaving her, but from the conversations I'd had with almost everyone in my family, the resort needed my help. As we were walking, my cell phone rang from my pocket. "Hello?" I asked, not looking at the caller ID.
"Mr. Cullen? This is Rebecca Michaelson with Remax," she said quietly. "You recently put in an offer on a home?"
"Yes. The owners came back with a counter offer, which we hadn't heard back from them," I answered.
"Well, I'm calling to inform you that the family has accepted your counter offer," Rebecca replied, her voice filled with excitement. "However, things need to move quickly. The house needs to be closed on before the end of the month."
"But, we got it?" I asked.
"You got it, Mr. Cullen. Congratulations! If you could swing by the office sometime on Monday…"
"That might be a problem, Ms. Michaelson. I'm not in Seattle at the moment. I'm on a business trip in San Francisco and I will not be back until late on Thursday," I explained. Bella poked me, holding up a note. "You could fax the paperwork to the Hotel Palomar. That's where I'm staying."
"I'll do that," Rebecca said. "Expect it this evening. Again, congratulations, Mr. Cullen and to Mrs. Cullen as well."
"Thank you," I beamed excitedly. Hanging up the phone, I turned to my girl. "We got the house."
"Are you serious?" she squealed. I nodded, pulling her into my arms. She jumped up and down, kissing every inch of my face that she could. "I never thought that we'd get it. With the lag in between our counter offer and their approval, I was ready to start looking again. What did the realtor say?"
I relayed everything that Rebecca explained to me. Bella was definitely panicking with the timeline, but at least I'd be there for the paperwork and hopefully the beginnings of renovations. There weren't many, but some. We found a bench overlooking a small stream and devised a plan of attack. At twilight, we head back to the hotel, which has a thick envelope for me at the front desk. Heading up to our room, we poured over the paperwork. The family was moving overseas which meant the expedited closing. It didn't matter to me since I was paying for the house in full as a wedding present for my wife. Yes, she was getting it a few months early, but knowing that we had a place to stay when we came to visit Charlie, Renee and all of Bella's friends, and the look of absolute joy in my fiancée's meant the world to me.
After reading and re-reading the paperwork, we signed in the appropriate spots. I carried down the stack of papers to the business center and faxed it back to Rebecca. When I went back upstairs, Bella was curled on our bed and she was down for the count. I was right behind her, exhausted and sore from the walking and sexing. Using my own computer, I rented a car for the rest of our trip and looked up directions to Muir Woods. With that, I crawled into bed, curling around my girl and sleeping hard.
xx AIDA xx
Muir Woods was magical and mind boggling. I had never, ever seen any trees that big in my life. I felt so small and it was almost claustrophobic. Bella was happily snapping pictures, wishing she could have brought her nicer camera to get some panoramic shots but she made do with her little point and shoot.
The next day, we drove to the pier for our trip to Alcatraz. That place was creepy. I couldn't imagine being an inmate in there. The cells were disgusting. There was no privacy and being on an island in the bay freaked me out. I made a vow to never fall into a life of crime because if the other prisons in the U.S. were like this, I'd have a heart attack. My OCD-like tendencies yearned for some bleach and a scrub brush.
God, I'm weird.
Monday evening, Bella and I went to China Town for dinner. At the suggestion of the concierge, we went to The House. It was an Asian fusion restaurant. Almost everything came highly recommended and we left there stuffed to the gills with fresh seafood, angus steak and wasabi noodles, which were to die for. After dinner, we walked around Chinatown, ducking into the little shops and purchasing knick knacks for our new home. We decided that our bedroom in Seattle was going to have a Zen, Asian flare to it. Shipping several larger items to the apartment in Seattle, we went back to the hotel and again, fell asleep relatively early.
The next morning, I checked us out of the hotel. We got into our rental Jeep and drove up to Napa Valley to the Milliken Creek Spa and Resort. It was almost a two hour drive up to Napa Valley. Bella had scheduled some spa treatments for both of us for today once we arrived and then we were doing a tour of Napa Valley, using the Wine Train. My girl drove us up to the resort while I just watched the scenery whiz by.
"I spoke to my parents," Bella said, reaching across the console. "They are thrilled with the house. They drove past it and were in love with it, wanting it for themselves."
"Well, it's our little love nest," I snickered, kissing her knuckles.
"I also told them about Tyler and seeing him," she said. "My dad wanted to come down here, castrate the guy with a rusty spork, but my mom was proud that I didn't cause him physical bodily harm."
"Would you?" I asked.
"Right after the wedding, yeah. I wanted to hurt him so badly," Bella mused. "Now? I can see he's happy and I know that I wasn't the right person for him. You were right in saying that his loss was your gain." I smiled crookedly at her. "I heard you say that as I was walking back."
"It's definitely my gain, love. If I hadn't met you…" I trailed off.
"I know, baby," she said, caressing my jaw with her fingers. "Now, the rest of our time in California is going to be spent spoiling you. You've worked your ass off and it's my way of congratulating you." She reached behind her seat, tossing something into my lap. "Front page of the technology section. Billy sent down Sunday's paper with his review of your game."
I quickly found the technology section, greedily reading the review of my game. Billy's review was amazing. I was shocked at the sheer amount of positive things he wrote about it. He also included quotes from gamers at the conference, positive remarks from Jane and other New Moon executives and amazing things about my presentation on Wednesday. "Wow."
"Every paper, as far as I've been told, have similar write ups about you, Edward. You're the 'Golden Boy' of the conference. I'm shocked that Jane hasn't called you with all of the requests for interviews and such," Bella said. "Then again, she's dealing with the BS from the cop guy."
"What is up with that?" I asked.
"According to Mandy, he's all pissed off that New Moon was setting him up to fail," Bella said, wrinkling her nose. "His game, according to the people I spoke with, was dated and borderline pornographic. In addition to that, the game itself was not well executed and the animations were not clean. He got ripped apart. The game will not sell because you have to have an ID to purchase it and it's expensive. He's suing New Moon for some trumped up, bullshit case. From what I understand, Jane and the company are not going to let this guy slander their name."
"What are they going to do?" I asked.
"I don't know. Mandy and Jane left before I could find out," Bella shrugged. The GPS on her phone pinged, telling her to turn. "Oooh, we're getting close."
Twenty minutes later, we pulled up to a rustic but romantic looking resort. It actually looked like a large mansion with several smaller buildings surrounding it. Parking the car, Bella and I get out of the Jeep and walk into the main building. She checks us in, smiling widely as she reads over the treatments she has planned for us. The receptionist handed Bella two keys and directed us to our room, which was in the main building. Our bags would be brought up by the bellhop. However, we were instructed to go up to our room, remove our clothes and put on a bathrobe for couple's massage.
I'd rather remove my clothes for a sensual massage with my girl on top of me, rolling her hips over my cock.
Stop it. Perv boy, she's still sore and you're going to have somebody in your room in a few moments to rub your muscles. Having a hard on is not advisable.
"I see your 'o' face, Edward. We'll have some fun later on tonight in the hot tub outside of our suite," Bella said, pulling me up to the room. Hot tub? "God, you're so predictable. I love you, though," she giggled, pushing me inside. On the king-sized bed were two white fluffy robes. Bella gave me a wink, stripping out of her clothing. She tossed them onto the bed and slowly picked up the robe, leaving it undone. Her beautiful body was framed by the white terrycloth and I felt myself become hard. "Edward, they masseurs will be here in five minutes."
"I can work with that," I said, removing my own clothes and picking her up, pinning her between the door and my body. "Hold on tight, babe." Pressing my cock inside of her tight pussy, I pounded into her relentlessly as we kissed hungrily. Bella's fingers were scratching my back as I brought her closer and closer to the brink. With a grunt, I came inside of her as she bit down on my neck, trying not to scream. Slumping to the ground, I buried my nose in her hair.
"You are insatiable, Mr. Cullen," Bella giggled.
"And you're part vampire," I said, pulling back. I touched my neck, almost expecting there to be blood on my fingers. I only felt an indent where she bit down. "Damn."
Bella checked my neck, frowning a little bit. "I'm sorry, Edward. There's probably going to be a bruise."
"A hickey," I snorted. "I feel like I'm in high school."
"Well, I'm wearing your mark," she said, wiggling her left hand in my face.
"That you are," I said, helping her up. She darted to the bathroom to clean up quickly. When she came back out, the masseurs had set up two tables on the patio of the suite. We were given a glass of champagne and enjoyed nearly two hours of being massaged into goo.
Once they left, Bella was taken to get waxed and buffed. I was going to get a shave and some manly facial. An hour later, we were back in our room with a table set up on the patio where the massage tables had been. There was an appetizer, main course and dessert set up in chafing dishes inside of the room. Wine was chilling in a bucket outside. I decided to keep things casual and dressed in a pair of pajama bottoms and a t-shirt. I opened up the wine bottle and Bella came into the room. She was fresh faced and blushing. "You look comfy, Edward," she said, gesturing to my loungewear.
"You can look comfy, too. I packed a blue nightie in your bag, along with a matching robe," I said. She nodded, twisting her hair into some complicated bun. Finding the La Perla nightie, she gave me a wink, ducking into the bathroom. I poured her a glass of wine and sat down out on the patio. A few moments later, Bella came out. Her skin was glowing from within and the nightie hugged her every curve. I am one lucky bastard. She gave me a seductive smile, gliding to me and sitting down my lap. "There's another chair."
"You're far more comfy, Edward," she said, taking my wine glass and sipping the chardonnay. "Oooh, that's delicious."
"It is," I said, snatching my wine glass back. "I poured you your own." She giggled, sipping her own glass. She sighed contentedly, leaning against my body. I idly held her, tracing circles on her bare thigh. "Did you know that this room they put us in is the Elopement room?'
"Maybe we should just do it," Bella said, one side of her mouth quirking up. "Elope?"
"Tempting," I said, threading my fingers with hers and toying with her engagement ring. "As much as I want you to be my wife and for us to be bound forever, I'm certain you want your dad to give you away, share that special moment with your mom as you put on your dress and celebrate with our friends and family."
She huffed out a breath, moving closer. "You're right," she said. "I just like it when you call me Mrs. Cullen."
"Really, Mrs. Cullen?" I snickered. "Because I'll do it as much as you want me to."
"But it's weird, Edward. I'm not your wife. I'm still Bella Swan," she frowned. "God, this conversation is dumb."
"No, it's not," I argued. "I can't wait until we're married and I'm so proud that you want to have my name."
"I'm proud to be with you, Edward. You're smart, funny, handsome and just amazing," she breathed. "July can't come soon enough. I swear." I nodded against her shoulder, kissing her fragrant skin. We stayed huddled together until my stomach growled. "Damn, Edward. Are you harboring grizzlies in there?"
"Fucking you against the door took a lot out of me," I quipped. Bella rolled her eyes. Patting her ass, I urged her to get up so we could make ourselves a plate. We shared a meal of salmon, roasted potatoes, asparagus, and salad. Bella ate on my lap, still claiming that I was more comfortable than the chair. After dinner, we watched the sun dip lower in the horizon. Bella shivered and I suggested we go inside. She just smirked, getting up from my lap and tossing her nightie onto the empty chair. She's going to kill me. In all her naked glory, she went into the hot tub, flicking the water to me.
"Water's great, baby," she purred.
In a nanosecond, I was in the hot tub with my girl. She kissed me deeply as she straddled my waist. We didn't make love in the hot tub. Just fooled around but it was amazing to be out in the open air, seeing my girl fall apart. Carrying her inside, I did make sweet love to her on the fluffy, inviting bed. She was so beautiful. Her brunette hair was a halo on the white pillows, making her look like an angel.
We fell asleep just before dawn, clinging to each other.
After three snoozes and two wake up calls, we dragged our bodies out of bed to get ready for the Wine Train. Based on the dark circles under Bella's eyes and the soreness I was feeling, I was ready to say 'fuck it' and sleep all day. But, Bella wanted to go. I chuckled to myself that I'd need to have a vacation from my vacation. However, I was smooth sailing until I was going to fly out after Easter. The only big thing coming up was the closing of the house. I could sleep and be a total bum.
I knew I wouldn't, but the option was there.
The Wine Train was amazing. Bella was definitely lit by the time we got back to the spa. We had also ordered several cases of wine, shipping them to Charlie and Renee and a few to us as well. Back at the resort, Bella and I ate some greasy hamburgers, trying to absorb some of the alcohol, before going to bed. We had to get up early to drive back to San Francisco, return the rental car and board our flight home.
As we sat on the tarmac, waiting for our turn to take off, Bella sighed. "Is it sad that I don't want to be flying to Seattle?"
"No. I've enjoyed our time here, but I miss my bed in Brazil," I snickered.
"Soon, though," she said, leaning her head against mine.
"Very soon," I smiled, kissing her forehead. I just had a lot of work to do before it was a reality. With the time on Isle Esme, I had no doubt that it would happen. I just couldn't wait.
I couldn't wait to prove to my father that I wasn't a fuck up.
I couldn't wait to restart my life in Brazil with Bella by my side.
I couldn't wait to build a home with my wife.
I couldn't wait to have a family.
I couldn't wait to officially call Bella 'Mrs. Cullen.'
Yep, I couldn't wait.
A/N: Edward is a bit of a cheeseball at the end. But, I love him. We're switching back to Bella next chapter. We're going to be closing on the new house (pictures of that will be posted on my blog and tumblr). We're also going to be separating our two favorite love birds.
Now, I've got a shit-ton of pictures with this bad boy. Some of them are from the conference. Some of them are from their travels. None of them are pervy. Well, one is kind of pervy. That's the picture of Bella's nightie. All of them will be on my tumblr and blog (links for both are on my profile). You can also find me on Facebook: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. We're a lot of fun! :-)
Leave me some!