Disclaimer: None of this mine, nor do I claim to be Stephenie Meyer. I just like to dabble in the playground that she created with Bella, Edward and her Twilight characters. No copyright infringement is intended.
The next chapter will be Edward (with a dash of Bella) bonding with the guys. The chapter after that, will be Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving … what will happen between our enemies turned friends … will their relationship morph into something more?
Chapter Ten
Edward
After I dropped Bella off, I decided to spend some time with my adoptive parents. I picked up Sam and drove to my parents' home. My mother was there by herself. My father was working. "Edward, what a pleasant surprise," she said, hugging me. "I thought you had plans."
"I do. On Sunday," I chuckled, walking into the foyer. "Tonight, I wanted to spend time with you and Dad."
"He's filling in for an attending. He likes to take an occasional shift to keep his techniques up to snuff," she explained, hanging up my coat. "So, you're stuck with me."
"I wouldn't say that," I smirked, unclipping Sam's leash. "It smells good in here."
"I'm making some comfort food," she explained. "It's cold and dreary outside. So, I made chicken and broccoli casserole. It'll be good for me and delicious for your father when he gets home after his shift."
"Do you need any help?" I asked.
"Just talk to me. It's been too long since we've had a mother/son date," Esme crooned. "How are things going with your therapist?"
"Nice way to ease into the conversation," I snorted, sitting down at the counter. She put a glass of wine in front of me, giving me an all-knowing grin.
"It's been a couple of months. I've noticed a difference," she said. "You smile more. You're not as jumpy."
"Therapy is going well. Dr. Gibbs and I have a pretty good rapport. The first few appointments were spent getting to know each other before delving into my neuroses," I sighed, sipping my wine. "He also suggested that I see his partner, Dr. Marsden, who is a psychiatrist."
"They want to medicate you?" she frowned.
"Only some anxiety medications, as needed. They suggested an anti-depressant, but I've dealt with my issues without medications for thirty-five years," I shrugged. "However, I do have moments where I feel out of control or so angry that I need help calming down. Before, I'd use either alcohol or sex."
"Edward," she chided.
"What? It's not like I was ever a virgin," I snorted humorlessly. "My innocence was long gone, left the building when I turned five."
Esme looked at me, her eyes wide. I'd never spoken so frankly about my childhood abuse. "Edward … I didn't mean to … I'm sorry," she sputtered. "Five?"
"People are ugly, cruel," I spat.
"I knew it was bad, but five years old?" Esme whimpered, tears welling in her hazel eyes. "Who would do that to a five-year-old?"
"Raymond Burton and his brother, Ralph," I said, my voice hollow.
"Oh, baby," Esme breathed, taking my face into her hands. I blinked a few times, staring at her. I gave her a weak smile, taking her hands off my face. "I'm sorry for bringing that up."
"You were asking about my therapy. Unfortunately, what I had to deal with as a kid is the reason why I'm in therapy," I said, reaching a shaky hand to my wine. I slammed my drink, trying to forget the ghosted memories of what I had to swallow as a kid. "Long story short, it's working."
"That's good," Esme nodded, stepping back and moving to the salad. "How are things going at MAC? I saw the pictures from the Halloween party on the company's Instagram."
"Well, thanks to that party, we've got a bunch of new clients," I answered. "So much so that we're creating a new team. We decided on who we wanted to head up the new team. He'll have to figure out who he wants working with him."
"Is it anyone I know?" Esme asked.
I took out my phone, pulling up a photo from the Halloween party. "The guy who's the Joker was the one we promoted," I said. "Emmett McCarty."
She flipped through the photos, grinning widely. "Who is this beautiful young woman? And her daughter?" Esme handed me back the phone and it was a picture of me, Bella and Katie. We looked happy, like a family.
"This is Bella," I whispered, staring at her exquisite face. Her smile was wide and she was snuggled next to me. Katie had her arms around my neck, curled in my arms. "The girl? That's her sister, Katie."
"Is that the woman you made cry?" Esme asked, her brows pulled into a confused expression. "You seem close."
"She's become important to me," I murmured. "She's my friend." I kept my eyes on her photo, feeling my heart stammer against my ribcage. Esme brushed her fingers through my hair. I looked up and I could see something swirling in my mother's eyes.
"She's more than that," she grinned. "That smile you're wearing in that photo? I've never seen that before. There was always fear and uncertainty in that smile. This smile? Pure happiness."
"She is more," I sighed, putting my phone back into my pocket. "We're taking things slowly. I'm broken … for obvious reasons."
"You're not broken, Edward Anthony," Esme snarled. "A little rough around the edges, but not broken."
I rolled my eyes. "Semantics, Mom. I'm all sorts of messed up. To quote that book you read, I'm 'fifty shades of fucked up'," I snorted. "Regardless, things are going slowly with Bella. She's also dealing with her own issues. She lost her parents and she's the legal guardian of that little girl."
"You should invite her to Thanksgiving," Esme chirped.
"Mom, we're friends," I pushed.
"This year is going to be tough for her," Esme argued. "She'll need family. Both of them …" She took my hand. "Do you remember when Nana Platt died?"
I nodded. My mom's mother passed away when I was in college from a heart attack. My mom just shattered. She spent nearly a month in bed after the funeral before my dad drove her to see a shrink. She was diagnosed with a major depressive episode and was medicated. The holidays were tough after Nana's death, but with each passing day, it got better. That first Thanksgiving was difficult because Nana's empty seat was a glaring reminder of her absence.
It didn't really matter to me. Nana hated me and she thought that Esme and Carlisle's decision to adopt me was a waste of money and resources. I was used to people like her. They saw the exterior, making a snap judgment that I was a worthless piece of skin and I just dealt with it. Usually, with my fists or my mouth. I couldn't do that with Nana, so I just stewed in her presence, exploding when she was gone.
As much as I hated her, I hated what her death did to my mom. I didn't know how to understand what she was feeling. When I lost my biological parents, I was a toddler and I was thrown into a nightmare. When she lost her mom, she had the coping skills but still fell apart.
"I can see the hamster working in that brilliant mind of yours," Esme teased. "You understand her loss and her need for family. Just like I needed it after Nana died, even if Nana treated you like shit." I gave my mom a wry grin. "You think I didn't see it? I did and I gave her grief every time. Invite Bella, Edward."
"I'll talk to her on Monday," I acquiesced.
The oven timer went off and Esme pulled out the casserole. She put it on the counter, letting it sit while she finished making a salad. I helped by setting the table and feeding Sam, giving him some boiled chicken, plain rice and dog kibble. "Edward, can you carry the casserole to the table?"
I grabbed the casserole and put it onto the kitchen table. Esme put the salad on the table as well, carrying the bottle of wine. "Do you want a glass of wine?"
"I have one on the counter. I couldn't carry the bottle, the salad and my glass," she quipped. I nodded, picking up her glass, along with mine. I topped up both glasses, sitting down next to her. She held up her glass, smirking. "A toast …"
"Really?" I asked.
"Yes, really," she said, quirking an eyebrow. I picked up my wine glass and smiled at her. "To your continued happiness, Edward. I'm proud of you and I love you."
I opened my mouth to try to say that I loved her back, but my throat seized up and the words couldn't move past my lips. I didn't know how to say it, how to show it. I really was broken, defective. I can't even say that I loved my own mother. How could I build a relationship with Bella and Katie? Unable to answer those questions, I just gave Esme a tender smile, clinking my glass with hers.
Dinner was delicious and Esme gave me a care package, with a healthy portion of the casserole. I was washing the dishes while my mom was watching a movie with Sammy cuddled next to her. When I finished the dishes and they were put away, I sat down next to my mom the couch. "Does it bother you?"
"What, Edward?" she asked, looking at me.
"That, I can't say those words?" I muttered.
"I know you love us, Edward. You show us with your actions," Esme smiled. I looked at her eyes and they were sincere. "Does it bother you?"
"I want to say them, Mom," I sighed, sitting back and thrusting my hand into my hair. "It's just that everyone who I said that to, they hurt me. My dead parents, a few of the early foster families, Tanya … I don't think my heart could take it if I told you that … and you will throw me away like everyone else."
Tears welled in her eyes and she moved closer, taking my hand. "Years of abuse have skewed your perception of what love is, baby. You are not disposable," she growled, her voice cracking. "You are my child. I may not have given birth to you, but you are my baby boy and you will always be my baby boy. My love for you is unconditional." She hugged me close and I accepted her comfort. She kissed my temple, pulling back. "When you're ready and when you truly believe it, you'll tell the person you love the most first." With a secretive grin, she chuckled. "I think I know who it will be."
"Mom," I argued.
"Hush. Drink wine with me and let's watch a movie. You pick," she said, handing me the remote before threading her arm with mine. I kissed her forehead, finding one of her favorite movies. "You do love me. Not many would choose a period romance willingly. Your father would rather lance an anal abscess."
"Only for you, Mom," I laughed, kicking my feet up and watching her movie.
When I was putting on my coat and getting ready to go after a couple of hours, my cell phone chimed from my pocket. "You going to get that?" Esme asked.
"When I get home," I said, kissing her cheek. "Thank you for dinner. Make sure you lock your door and arm the security system."
"I will, Edward," she nodded. "Call me when you get home."
"Of course, Mom. Come on, Sam. Let's go," I commanded and I walked out to my car. Sam hopped into the backseat, yawning widely. "We're going home, bud." My phone chimed again and I pulled it out. Not many people had my number. Even fewer texted me.
I know that you probably didn't hear this much when you were a kid, but I wanted to let you know that you are a good man. Thank you for being my friend, and for being so kind to Katie. I never knew how much I needed it ~ Bella
Something wasn't right with Bella's text. I couldn't hear her voice, but she was upset. I responded, concerned about her. If I needed to, I'd go over there. I wouldn't mind sleeping with her again. Her warmth from her body spread all through me and made me feel comforted, happy.
Is everything alright, angel? ~ Edward
The dots danced at the bottom of the screen, then disappeared. I frowned. The dots danced again and her response appeared.
Sort of. I … I just wanted to tell you that ~ Bella
Something definitely happened and she was upset. I typed out my reply. I was tempted to offer to come over, but I didn't want to be a creeper. However, the only thing I wanted to do was hold her close.
You make me want to be a better man, Bella. You make my heart beat with a tender smile. You bring me light. You are my light … Thank you for being my friend and accepting me as I am ~ Edward xx
She didn't respond after that, at least not right away. After I'd taken Sam out for a walk, I was getting for bed when my phone lit up.
You've got it wrong, Edward. You are MY light. Sleep well and thank you, for everything ~ Bella
Reading her response made me smile widely. I was still concerned over her messages, but I'd given her some solace, even from miles away. With a quick response, saying goodnight, I turned off my phone and curled up around my pillow. Sleep came quickly and the usual nightmares were noticeably absent.
Dreams of Bella and her pleas for me to stay with her took their place.
xx FFADS xx
Sorry for not getting in touch with you sooner. Rosie had some drama yesterday. Her own damned fault. She's mouthy when she drinks and she really put her foot in it. Anyhow, Overtime Sports Bar at noon? ~ Emmett
I put down my cup of coffee, picking up my phone. I read the message, blinking at the time. I had to be at the bar in a little over an hour. Sounds good. Everything okay with Rose? ~ Edward
I'll tell you when I see you. First round is on me ~ Emmett
I'm not going to refuse that. See you soon ~ Edward
I finished my coffee and pet Sam's head. He gave me a doggy grin, his tail thumping on his bed. With another scratch, I padded to the bathroom and took a quick shower. As I did, I avoided looking at my body. I had scars on my chest, arms and back from my foster families. Cigarette burns, whip marks, and three separate stab wounds marked my skin. I also had a few surgery scars. The arm that had been broken and was set by Carlisle had healed incorrectly. I needed corrective surgery to fix it. I also had shoulder surgery since I'd had a torn rotator cuff thanks to one of my foster fathers dragging me to my room to do unthinkable things to me.
That surgery was completed when I turned thirty and I had inexplicable shoulder pain. Not really inexplicable … just ignored. I thought I was having a heart attack, but instead I needed to have my shoulder reconstructed. The rehabilitation was pure torture since it had been so badly damaged.
Shaking my head of unpleasant memories, I dried off and ran some hair gel through my tousled bronze mop. I decided not to shave. I got dressed in a pair of jeans and an old Devin Hester jersey I got for Christmas years ago over a long-sleeved t-shirt. I took Sam out before I left, driving to the sports bar.
Immediately, I saw Embry and a handsome man with dark hair and pale skin sitting next to him. He waved at me, gesturing for me to join him. I made my way toward him, skirting past other patrons of the bar. "Hey, Embry," I smiled, shaking his hand.
"Nice to see you, Edward. I wasn't sure if you were going to come, but I'm glad you're here," Embry grinned. "This is my boyfriend, Quil."
"It's a pleasure. Embry just can't stop talking about you," I said, shaking his hand. I sat down at the table. "How long have you and Embry been a couple?"
"A year?" Quil answered, looking at his boyfriend and lacing his fingers with him. They shared a sweet smile.
"A little over that. We started dating shortly after my position changed at MAC," Embry answered. "I had just taken over IT for our team …" Embry shot me an apologetic look.
"I know," I nodded, remembering Embry's change in position and the reasoning behind it. Fucking Jacob and his cock pile-driving into my ex-wife. I must deflect from the uncomfortable situation. "Are you two the first ones here?"
"Jasper is getting beer," Quil explained. "Emmett is on his way."
"He said that there was drama with Rose," Embry shrugged. "When is there NOT drama with Rose? I love her. She's a great person, but she has a tendency to talk before she thinks."
"Hey, Boss," Jasper said, putting down a pitcher of beer. "A server is on her way if you want food. She's also bringing glasses."
"What did you get?" Embry asked.
"Blue Moon," Jasper answered. A tiny waitress came by with five glasses and a plate of orange slices. "Thank you, Sally."
"A pleasure, Jas," she chirped. "Menus are on the table. We have a special on an appetizer sampler platter and boneless wings."
"Can we get the sampler platter and two orders of wings?" Jasper asked. "Anyone particular on the heat for the wings?"
"I'm not a fan of super spicy things. When I get wings, I usually get teriyaki or honey barbeque," Quil said.
"I'll give you some sauces on the side. We've got some non-spicy options," Sally explained. "I've got you boys covered."
"Can you also start a tab?" I asked Sally.
"I need a card," she chirped. I handed her my credit card, with a smile. "I'll get this started and put that order in. If you need anything, just holler." She ducked away and came back a few moments later to return my card.
"I'm here!" Emmett said, plopping down next to me as the football game began. "Fuck me … what a clusterfuck."
Jasper poured him a beer, arching a brow. "What happened?"
Emmett tossed an orange slice into his glass and took a healthy swig. "So, last night, Rose went out with the girls. They were all at Alice's place. It was something that Alice planned since Bella had a rough day on Friday. Something happened at a grocery store and Alice wanted to help her forget what she was dealing with, the loneliness she was feeling. You know?"
"So, that's why you hung out at my apartment," Embry snickered at Jasper. "Normally, Saturday is date night with the missus."
"I was kicked out of my home because I have a dick," Jasper grumped. "I would have stayed out of sight. But, no. Alice told me to scram. Thanks for letting me crash your date night."
"We weren't having a date night," Quil laughed. "It was more of a night on our couch, playing video games and eating sushi."
"We totally creamed him," Embry laughed, smacking Jasper's back. "You kind of suck at video games for an IT guy."
"Graphic design, good. Killing computer monsters, bad. Besides, I think that sushi didn't sit well in my belly," Jasper snorted.
"Blame the sushi, sure," Quil teased.
Jasper gave him a shitty grin before turning back to Emmett, "Anyway, continue, Emmett. Girl's night."
"Right," Emmett answered. "So, after they went to a salon and got some girly shit done, they went back to Alice's place for dinner. It was over dinner that Rose really stepped in the shit. She was asking Bella about her friendship with you, Edward."
"Oh? What did she ask?" I pressed, my hackles raising.
"Rose brought up your previous behavior, how you were a bit unbearable to deal with and it rubbed Bella the wrong way. She snapped at Rose, saying that she had no right to cast judgment," Emmett explained. "And that she didn't know the whole story." I blanched. Bella wouldn't have shared my past. I trusted her. "Boss, before you freak out … Bella didn't say anything about you. It's further proof that she's a class-act. Regardless, Rose fucked up and Bella got really upset. She stepped out, with tears in her eyes."
"Rose made her cry?" I asked, trying to keep my temper under control.
I cannot fire my head of human resources over situations that happened OUTSIDE of work … but I'm sorely tempted.
"No, I think she was crying because of Rose's harsh statements about you," Emmett explained. "Anyway, the rest of the women there ripped into Rose after Bella stepped away and rightfully so. I love her very much, but she can be a handful when she's drunk. She's a mean, awful drunk."
"Did she try to make it right?" Embry questioned.
"She did, but Bella was distant with her. In fact, Bella left with Sue shortly after Rose opened her big mouth," Emmett sighed, scrubbing his face. "After that, Rose felt guilty and angry. I had to pick her up because she was too drunk to drive and Alice wanted her out."
"If Alice is pissed off, you know she crossed a line. It takes a lot to piss off my woman," Jasper breathed. "Bella's a sweet girl. I like her. She's an invaluable asset to our team."
"We all like her," Emmett grinned. "Anyway, I was late because Rose realized how much of a bitch she was and she was a snot-sobbing mess. Mean drunk, emotional hangover and she's exhausted, too. I was grateful for the game to get the fuck out of my apartment." He looked at Edward, his brows pulled into a deep furrow. "Edward, I know that the past year has been difficult for you, but it was not Rose's place to pull that shit."
"I appreciate that, Emmett," I said, giving him a weak smile. "Regardless of what Rose said, I was an asshole and it was because of what happened between me and my ex-wife."
"And Jacob," Embry added.
"And Jacob," I snorted humorlessly. "I am sorry for my behavior."
"You've already apologized, Edward," Jasper offered. "I can't speak for the rest of these yahoos, but I've accepted your apology. You're changing. We all can see it."
"But, Bella was right. There is more to the story," I explained. "It's not something I'm comfortable sharing, but my upbringing was not normal."
"Bella knows the story?" Emmett asked.
"She's one of four people who do," I answered.
"Whoa, you really do like Bella," Jasper breathed. "Good for you, Edward. She's a great girl and I think you'd be a cute couple. I would, however, like to watch the football game. I think I'm growing a vagina with all this girl talk."
"We are gossiping like a bunch of teenagers," Embry chuckled. "I think I need more alcohol. Where's Sally? We need more beer."
xx FFADS xx
On Monday morning, I was waiting for Emmett to come into the office to formerly announce his promotion. Rose was also supposed to be with me, to give him his updated contract, but I had it saved on my computer and printed out. I was rereading the contract when an email pinged on my computer. It was time stamped early, but set to deliver upon my arrival. Or, in this case, when I opened my email.
To: E.A. Cullen
From: R.L. Hale
Subject: Illness
Dear Mr. Cullen,
I am unable to come to work today due to illness. I woke up with a fever and a queasy stomach. I have a doctor's appointment this evening. I'll be in touch with you if I need to miss any more days due to my sickness.
Additionally, please go ahead with the meeting with Emmett without me. We need to move ahead if we want to keep the timeline we proposed on Friday.
All the best,
Rosalie L. Hale
Director of Human Resources, Masen Advertising Corporation
I sighed, shaking my head but I couldn't dwell on it. My phone rang on my desk. "Yes?"
"Emmett McCarty is here to see you, Edward," Shelly said.
"Send him in," I replied. I picked up the file with his contract. Shelly showed him and he was smiling. "How are you doing, Emmett?" We shook hands.
"Better than Rose," he cringed. "Poor thing woke up with the stomach flu or food poisoning. I know she sent you an email at like two in the morning. She's going to the doctor if she can't keep anything down. It's been going on for hours."
"I hope she's feeling better soon," I said. "Please, have a seat."
"I'm not in trouble, am I?" he chuckled nervously as we sat down on my couch. "Talk about weird. We shoot the shit yesterday and you fire me today."
"I'm not firing you, Emmett," I said soothingly. "I may be an asshole, but not that much of an asshole."
"A reformed asshole," Emmett grinned. "So, what's up?"
"I don't know if you're aware, but with the photographs of our Halloween party, we got a huge influx of interest in our company," I explained. "We had so much interest that the senior advertising executives felt that we needed to add an additional team. I asked them to submit a name of a candidate that they felt best fit our needs. Out of the seven names put forward, I'd like to offer you a chance to head up your own team for clothing and personal care. You will have a chance to choose your team."
"From people here or hire new talent?" Emmett asked.
"We have the budget to hire new talent, but we know that we will be doing some shuffling with your promotion," I explained. "Ideally, we'd like to have a new team set and ready to go by the beginning of the year." I handed him the folder. "This is a new contract, complete with your new salary and expectations for your team. As you go through the hiring process, you will get the first pick of the new contracts. Established clients will stay with their team leader."
Emmett read the contract, flipping through the paperwork. "Holy shit … that is quite the salary increase!"
"With an additional bonus for each client you take on," I said. "I understand that this is a big decision. If you are not certain …"
"No, I'll take it," he beamed. "When can I start?"
"As soon as you sign the contract," I laughed, taking out a pen from my breast pocket. I handed it to him. He eagerly took it, signing his name. I took the pen back, signing it as well. "I'll have Shelly act as the third witness and I'll make you a copy."
"What about my responsibilities with Alice's team?" he asked.
"Well, I'm meeting with the senior executives today. I want you to be a part of that meeting. You'll be introduced as the new team leader," I explained. "But, Alice has been made aware of your promotion."
"When?"
"I called her last night," I said. "Once I got back from the bar, I contacted her. She's already got things covered."
"Are we going to announce this to the staff?" Emmett questioned, arching a brow.
"Staff meeting tomorrow," I grinned. "Let me get Shelly's signature and we can get you set up in your new office."
"After the announcement. I want to spend time with my old team for the rest of the day," Emmett smiled. "It'll also give me a chance to pack up my shit."
I nodded, stepping out to the office. Shelly signed the paperwork and made three copies. One for Rosalie to place into Emmett's file, one for Shelly and the third for Emmett. I'd keep the original, along with a digital copy on a secured server. I walked back to my office and handed Emmett the copy. "Before you leave …" I said, walking over to the small kitchenette and filling two glasses with some scotch. "It's not champagne, but I think that this deserves a toast." I handed him a glass, holding my own. "Congratulations, Emmett. I'm certain you'll do MAC very proud."
"Macallan's scotch before lunch? Nice!" he said, clinking his glass with mine. "Thank you for the opportunity, Edward. I truly appreciate it." We shared our drink and he left my office to finish up his work for Alice's team.
I spent the rest of the morning going over the meeting with the team leaders, checking on their progress of their campaigns. I did pick up some lunch, seeing Bella sitting with Alice and Sue. I carried my lunch over to their table. "Good afternoon, ladies."
"Hello, Edward," Alice chirped. "How was the football game?"
"The game itself? It sucked. The Bears are awful this season," I snorted. "But, the company was awesome. I've been invited for next weekend, as well."
"Excellent," Alice beamed.
"Did you sign up for Friendsgiving?" Bella asked. "The sign up is almost filled, Edward."
"I'll do it before I leave," I answered.
"All of the family favorites are already claimed," Sue smiled, standing up. "If you'll excuse me. I have a Skype meeting with one of my clients to verify proofs and plans for their holiday campaign. I'll call you later tonight, Bella."
"Sounds good," Bella grinned.
"I'm also going to head on out, too. I've got to get ready for this one's senior staff meeting," Alice smirked in my direction. "I also have the information you want, Edward." She subtly blinked to Edward before winking as she walked away. From what she was none-too-subtly was telling me, Alice was pegging Bella to take over Emmett's position on her team.
"Do you mind if I join you? I know you're almost finished," I said.
"Please, join me. I do have a phone conference with a salon, Fringe, for some work I'm doing for them, but it's not for another fifteen minutes," Bella smiled. "Did you really enjoy your time with the boys?"
"It was a lot of fun," I chuckled, digging into my meal. "I met Embry's boyfriend, Quil and learned a lot about video games."
"I don't peg you as a gamer," she giggled, nibbling on her fruit salad.
"I'm not, but I was invited over to Quil and Embry's for a lesson," I snorted. "I'm expanding my horizons, angel. Speaking of which, I was wondering … would you like to spend Thanksgiving with me and my adoptive parents? I know that you said the holidays would be hard."
"They are going to be hard, and I'm so grateful for the invitation," Bella breathed.
"But …?" I sighed.
"But, Sue invited me to her place. I've already accepted and it would be rude to back out now. Plus, Katie will have children to play with her, close to her own age," Bella explained. "I'm so sorry. I'm thankful for the invitation, for you to open up your home."
I was disheartened. I really wanted Bella to spend Thanksgiving with my family. "Well, seeing as Plan A is not an option, how about this? Would you like to go out to dinner with me? Just you and me?"
"Like, a date?" she asked.
"The Friday after Thanksgiving," I whispered, taking her hand and caressing her wrist with my fingers. "I'd like to take you out on a date, Bella."
A lovely blush covered her face as she smiled shyly. "I'd be honored to go out with you, Edward," she responded. She looked at her watch. "I better get going. I have to pull up the Fringe files before I call Monique." She squeezed my hand before standing up to leave. "Don't forget to sign up for Friendsgiving. I'm bringing my sweet potato casserole. It's to die for."
"I'm looking forward to it, angel," I chuckled. She looked around before leaning down kissing my cheek. She darted away, leaving the cafeteria. While she did, my cheek was tingling where her lips brushed against my skin. I was a bit bummed that Bella couldn't spend the holiday with me and my parents. But, she said yes to my offer of a date.
My heart was stammering against my ribs, overjoyed that she'd said yes to my request. I hadn't felt this excited in my entire life.
I was terrified that it would bite me in the ass.
I was also eager to know if the feelings I was experiencing with Bella were real.
What was the warmth in my chest?
What was the excitement I was feeling?
Was this love?
A/N: Edward grew a set of stones and asked Bella out for a date. Unfortunately, it was after she said no to his invitation for Thanksgiving. Apologies about that … Up next, we will be having Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving … what will happen between our enemies turned friends … will their relationship morph into something more?
Pictures from this chapter, the bar and such, are on my blog. You can also find me on Facebook: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. I'm also on twitter, tufano79.
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