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.
Anyhow, up next will be Edward and we'll get some Edward and Katie time. We'll also move forward in time, going to the launch party for New Moon cosmetics. While at the launch party, a blast from the past will make an appearance. Leave me some loving and thank you for reading!
Chapter Fourteen
Edward
After eating dinner, Bella suggested we watch a movie. With a coy smirk, she pulled up How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the live action version. I didn't personally care for Jim Carrey, but Katie was glued to the television, curled up between us. The stuffed toy I'd given her was in her arms as she snuggled with Bella. When the movie was over, Bella ran her fingers through Katie's hair. "Come on, Kit Kat. Bed time," she said.
"No," she whined. "I want to stay up with you and Mr. Edward."
"You're falling asleep on me," Bella quipped, helping a drowsy Katie to her feet. "Also, Edward said you don't have to call him Mr. Edward anymore."
"Oh, yeah," she yawned. She clambered back onto the couch and into my lap. Her little arms snaked around my neck. She sighed, cuddling against me. "Can't I stay up, Edward? Please?"
Bella rolled her eyes. I rubbed Katie's back and kissed her forehead. "Sorry, Little One. It's time for you to go to bed."
"Uh huh," she replied sleepily.
I looked down at her. Her eyes were closed and she was down for the count. I held her as I stood up. Bella led me to Katie's room. I put the now sleeping girl under the covers. Bella kissed her cheek. With a smile, she took my hand and led me out of the room. Sam was sitting outside of the room, his tail wagging. "Do you want to stay with Katie, Sam?" I asked.
He barked lowly, walking past Bella and me and into the bedroom. He hopped onto the bed, curling up by Katie's feet. His tail wagged as I laughed. "I see how it is, Sam," I chuckled.
"Will he be okay in there?" Bella asked.
"That girl is the most protected person on this street," I answered soothingly. I gently tugged on her hand and we went back downstairs. We settled on the couch with a couple of glasses of wine.
"Do you want to watch another movie? Something a little less childish, Grinch," Bella teased.
I snorted and nodded. "Whatever you'd like, angel."
"My mom's favorite holiday movie was Love, Actually," Bella smiled. "We'd usually watch it over Thanksgiving weekend. Phil hated it. So, it was a girl's tradition. I know you're not a girl … never mind … it's stupid."
"Bella, I like that movie. I've seen it," I said, guiding her to cuddle with me.
"You don't mind?" she asked.
"As long as I get to spend time with you, I'm happy, angel," I breathed, brushing my lips over hers. We kissed for a few moments before Bella pulled back. She picked up the remote and she started the movie. We arranged ourselves on the couch. Bella was laying in front of me, idly running her fingers along my arm that was draped over her stomach.
While the movie played, I'd never felt so content. I always felt the need to be on the go. I never stopped for a moment. Even while I was married to Tanya, I worked myself to the bone to provide for both of us. After my divorce, I worked to dull the pain of her betrayal. Now? Holding Bella as she watched this romantic movie? It felt incredible and I was happy to be here with her. Feeling her warmth and her body next to mine felt right.
When the movie ended, I looked down and saw that Bella was asleep. Her face was completely relaxed as she was curled up in my arms. I kissed her temple, tightening my hold around her body. I shut off the television and looked at Bella while she slept. Her lips were puckered out and she gripped my arm, afraid that I'd leave. I didn't want to leave. I yawned, pulling a blanket over us and adjusting Bella's spot on the couch. Her head was on my chest, right above my heart.
"My Edward," she mumbled, moving closer to me. "My Grinch … so handsome, so loving …"
Looking down, I was afraid that she had woken up, but she was still asleep. I didn't think I was loving. I wasn't sure if I was capable of loving someone. I couldn't say it to my parents. When Tanya said it to me, I never said those three words to her. I always said 'me, too.' Could I open up my heart, trust someone enough to love them?
As my eyes drifted shut, I imagined opening my heart to Bella and allowing myself to love her, to love Katie.
Was it worth it?
"I don't feel alone anymore," Bella said, her voice rough with sleep and emotion poured out of her sleepy admission. "Don't leave me, Edward … please?"
"Never, angel," I whispered. "I can't walk away from you."
"Kay. Sleep, Grinch. Sleepy sleep," she mumbled.
I chuckled, closing my eyes and allowing sleep to take over.
Definitely worth it. But, can I say those words?
xx FFADS xx
I was sleeping heavily, but I woke up with a start. Katie was sitting on the cocktail table with Sam next to her. His nose was inches away from my eyes. "Get a breath mint, Sam," I grumbled, tightening my hold around Bella.
"I think Sam needs to go potty, Edward," Katie whispered. "He was scratching at the door."
I scrubbed my face and wriggled my way out of Bella's arms. I covered her with a blanket. Blinking at the clock, I was surprised at how late I'd slept in. Usually, I was up by six. It was well after eight. "Stay with Bella, Little One. I'll take out Sam."
"There are keys in the bowl near the door, Edward," Katie explained, curling up on the chair opposite of the couch.
I put on my coat and hooked Sam up to his leash. I swiped a set keys from the bowl, taking Sam out for a brisk walk. It was colder and there was a light dusting of snow on the ground. Sam took care of his business and I walked back to Bella and Katie's home. When I was back inside, Katie was trying to get some juice. "Whoa, hold up, Little One," I said.
"I want some orange juice. And, I'm hungry," she pouted.
"How about this? Why don't you get dressed and brush your teeth? We'll let Bella sleep in a little bit and we'll get breakfast, hmmm?" I suggested. "We'll get something for her."
"Okay," she grinned, darting out of the kitchen and back upstairs. I found a piece of paper and left a brief note for Bella, explaining my absence. After that, I popped a piece of gum because I didn't have my tooth brush. Katie came back downstairs. I helped her into her shoes and coat, holding her hand as we left the house. "Where are we going, Edward?"
"Well, first, we're going to my car," I answered. "Then, we're going to a diner nearby. They have the best waffles."
"I love waffles," Katie smiled, bouncing on her toes. We got to my SUV and I buckled her into the booster seat I'd had purchased. I got into the driver's seat and warmed up the car. "Edward, can you help me?"
"Is everything okay, Katie?" I asked.
"I'm good, but I want to get Bella something special for Christmas," Katie said. "Can we go shopping?"
"Now?" I snickered.
"Not now, silly," she replied, rolling her eyes. "Before Christmas."
"I think we can do that, Katie," I answered honestly. "Maybe you can help me find a present for Bella, too." I backed out of my spot and drove us to one of my favorite diners. I parked the car and we went inside. We sat down at a booth. "What do you want to eat, Little One?"
"I want waffles," she said. "With bacon."
"Do you want milk or juice, Katie?"
"Apple juice," she chirped.
"Good morning," said the waitress. She was older, about my mom's age and she wore a pink waitress uniform. "I'm Liv and I'll be your server. Would your daughter like some crayons and a kids menu?"
"Yes, please," Katie smiled. Liv walked away and returned with a pack of crayons and small booklet. "Thank you!"
"You're very polite," Liv grinned. "What can I get you both?"
"Um, she'd like waffles with bacon, with a glass of apple juice," I sputtered. "I'll have a Greek omelet with a side of sausage and extra tzatziki sauce. Also, for when we're almost ready to go, I'd like another order of waffles with scrambled eggs and bacon."
"Do you want bread, an English muffin or blueberry muffin with your omelet?" Liv asked.
"Blueberry muffin," I answered. "And coffee. Lots of coffee."
"You got it, hon," Liv grinned. She walked away and put in the order. A few moments later, she returned with a plastic cup with Katie's apple juice and a cup of coffee for me.
"Did you have fun yesterday, Katie?" I asked her as she colored on the menu.
"Yeah," she grinned. "It was almost like when Mommy and Daddy where alive."
"Do you remember them?"
"A little bit. Mommy and Bella are almost the same," Katie shrugged. "They look the same, only Mommy was older. Oh, and Mommy was taller than Bella."
"What about your dad?" I asked.
"Daddy was really smart. He was a doctor," Katie replied.
"My dad's a doctor, too," I grinned.
"I don't remember Daddy as much as Mommy," Katie frowned. "I love both of them, but I don't remember him. Is that bad?"
"It's not bad, Katie. Did you spend more time with your Mom?"
"Yeah, I did," she nodded. "But, does that mean that I love Mommy more and Daddy less?"
"No, Little One," I murmured.
"You said your daddy's a doctor?" Katie asked, blinking up at me. "What does your mommy do?"
"Well, my mom used to work as an interior decorator," I answered.
"What's that?"
"She buys furniture and helps decorate people's houses," I replied. "But, she doesn't do that anymore. She retired from working and now? She focuses her attention on helping other people, especially children who lost their families."
"How does she do that?" Katie whispered. "Does she bring them back?"
"It's not like that, Little One," I explained. "When I was a little younger than you, my parents died."
"Like Mommy and Daddy?"
Not wanting to explain to the four-year-old about my parents' drug abuse, I lied. Slightly. "A bit. But, I didn't have an older sister like Bella to take care of me. I waited a long time, but my parents adopted me. So, my mom helps kids whose parents had died or they couldn't take care of them anymore. I also help out, too. Do you remember when you were sick?"
"I still cough," she grumbled. "Especially after running around. But, yeah, I remember when I was really sick."
"The doctor you saw, he's a friend of mine," I said. "I helped Bella to get you in to see him. She was so worried."
"He was nice," Katie said, sipping her juice. "He gave me medicine to stop my coughing." She looked up at me, her blue eyes wide and curious. "Do you miss your real Mommy and Daddy?"
"I don't remember much about them, Katie. I have a faded picture of them, but I don't remember anything about who they were or what they did," I sighed.
"Breakfast is served," Liv said, putting down the plates. "I'll also have George make your to-go order. It'll be ready when you're done eating. Enjoy!"
"Can you cut my waffles, Edward?" Katie asked.
I slid her plate over to my side and I carefully cut her waffles, drizzling some syrup on top. "That good, Little One?"
"Yeah," she said, clapping her hands. "Thank you!"
The rest of our breakfast was spent talking about Katie's time at preschool and day care. She told me about her friends and how much she adored her teacher, Miss Valenti. Katie also prattled on about this new dance class that she wanted to attend. It sounded like she wanted me to finagle Bella into getting her to go. She was acting all innocent, telling me about the shoes, the costumes and the other girls in the class. Her best friend, Tia, was in it and she really wanted to join the class.
"Katie, I'll talk to Bella, but no promises," I chuckled as I gestured for the bill.
"It could be a present from you," she giggled.
"Tempting, Little One. However, I wouldn't be the one taking you to the classes," I snickered as Liv came with a plastic bag with Bella's breakfast. "Do you want to take your waffles home with you?"
"Yes, please," Katie nodded. "They were really, really nummy."
"I'll let George know that you liked it. Do you need a to-go container?" Liv grinned. She picked up the plate. "I'll be right back with her leftovers. You can pay the check at the front counter."
"Much appreciated," I replied. "And no, thank you." I finished my coffee and helped Katie out of the booth. I paid the bill, leaving a healthy tip for Liv. Carrying the leftovers, we walked to the car and I helped her into her booster. Driving us back to the brownstone, I managed to find a spot closer to Bella's house. Using the keys I'd taken, I let us back inside.
"Bella!" Katie smiled, running to her sister. Bella had showered and was dressed in a pair of yoga pants and an oversized hoodie. "We got you breakfast."
"Thank you, Kit Kat," Bella breathed, hugging her tightly. She looked up at me, grinning shyly. "Did you two have fun?"
"Yeah," Katie answered for us. "Are we going to church today?"
"Maybe tonight, for the evening service," Bella answered. "Why don't you go up to your room? We need to do some laundry." Katie nodded, running up the stairs. Sam followed her. Bella turned back to me. "I woke up alone on my couch. Well, not alone. Sam was curled behind my legs. He's one hot dog." She pulled out the note I'd left her. "You are so sweet, Edward. Leaving me love notes?"
"I didn't want you to think that I'd kidnapped your kid sister. I also wanted to give you a chance to sleep in," I chuckled, stepping toward her. I slid my hand to her neck, caressing her soft skin. She slid her palms up my chest and she kissed me. Her lips were so soft, pliant against mine. My other hand snaked around her tiny waist. Our kisses were slow, languid. "Not that I'm complaining, but what was that for?"
"For being you. For showing me how much your heart has grown, Grinch," she giggled. "For breakfast." She kissed me again, trailing her fingers along my jaw. She took the bag from my hand, eagerly digging into the meal I'd gotten her. "How was Katie?"
"She was totally fine, but she freaked me out this morning," I snickered, pouring myself a cup of coffee. "She and Sam were right there. Apparently, Sam needed to answer the call of nature. After I took him out, we went out for breakfast. Katie wanted me to tell you that she wants to take dance classes."
"Now she's got you doing her dirty work?" Bella groaned. "That girl is relentless."
"I'm just telling you what she told me," I said, tugging Bella into my arms. "My job is done. The rest is up to you."
"Well, she'll get her dance lessons. I got the information from Senna and she starts in January," Bella nodded. "Are you going to stay today?"
"Like you, I have some chores that need to get done," I frowned, sliding my hands to her hips. I was always cognizant of where my hands were. I didn't want her to think that I was only with her for her body. Though, her body was extremely sexy. Regardless of my thoughts, I knew what it was like to have my body violated and I didn't want to disrespect her. "I've got a business meeting in New York on Wednesday and I have to make sure I have everything for the trip."
"When are you leaving?" Bella asked. "And, what's the meeting about?"
"Tuesday after work. My meeting is early on Wednesday," I answered, pulling her closer. "The meeting is for a hotel chain. They're shopping for an advertising agency to promote their rebranded version of luxury, boutique hotels. Peter and Charlotte are coming with me since this is their strength."
"When will you be back?"
"At some point on Friday," I frowned. "I'm going to miss you."
"Me, too," Bella said. "What's going to happen with Sam?"
"He's staying with my parents. I could have boarded him, but my mom asked to watch him," I snorted. "Can I call you while I'm on my business trip?"
"Of course," she answered, giving me a warm smile. "Do we need to fill out the paperwork for the company?"
"I'll let Rose know. We'll fill out the paperwork, filing it with HR and informing the company of our relationship. I don't want to hide you. I'm proud that you're with me," I murmured, cupping her face. Leaning down, I kissed her mouth. I could taste the syrup from her waffles. "I do need to go, angel."
"Kay," she sighed against my mouth.
Bella called up to Katie, asking her to bring down Sam. Katie was sad that I was taking her furry pal back home with me. I crouched down, hugging my Little One. She kissed my cheek, thanking me for breakfast and for helping set up their holiday decorations. While she hooked up Sam's leash, I kissed Bella goodbye.
After a short drive back to my condo, I felt so lonely and bereft. The warmth of Bella's home had seeped into my soul. I had basked in her tender touches and gentle smiles. My condo was cold and empty. I wanted to turn around and go back.
But, I had responsibilities to take care of.
Being an adult sucks.
xx FFADS xx
On Monday morning, Bella and I filled out the paperwork, acknowledging our relationship. Rose gave us both copies and put a digital copy in our personnel files. Unfortunately, that was the last time I saw Bella. I was stuck in meeting after meeting on Monday and Tuesday, trying to fill five days' worth of work in two days.
While I was out of town, Bella and I traded voicemails. She was just as busy with her new role on her team. Her responsibilities had easily tripled as Alice was not going to hire a new junior executive until after the first of the year. Ironically, their team was one of the most successful. Their workload was huge and they made their clients happy. The email I'd received from Victoria about the team was nothing but complimentary. She was eager to have us help them with their next big launch, a spring launch for their summer products.
Upon my return to Chicago, late on Friday, I rode to my condo in the back of a limo. I was checking my email and trying to stay awake. I was up early and was on the go from the moment I woke up until I sat down in the airplane. In my hand, my cell phone rang. I smiled crookedly when I saw Bella's exquisite face pop up on my screen. Sliding my finger across the screen, I answered, "Hello, angel."
"Grinch! I'm actually talking to you," she giggled. "Not your voicemail? Has hell frozen over?"
"Ha, ha, Swan," I snorted. "I've been busy."
"I know. I'm teasing, Edward. Congratulations on winning the bid," she said.
"You heard?"
"It was announced by Bloomberg News. Phones have been ringing off the hook," Bella gushed. "Peter and Charlotte are going to work on this collaboratively?"
"Yes. The hotel CEO was insistent that they work together. They loved the personal touches that Charlotte created, but the advertising plan that Peter had laid out. They're pulling from your playbook, angel," I sighed, sitting back in the limo. "A multi-faceted, multi-pronged plan to promote the hotels. They're using social media, traditional advertising and television spots. I can't remember being so excited for an advertising bid presentation."
"I'm proud of you, Edward," Bella breathed. "Now, I know that you're probably tired, but I wanted to see if you got in okay."
"I did. The limo is pulling up to my condo now," I said. "I have a date with my bed. I'm exhausted. I don't sleep well when I'm out of town."
"I get that. The bed is never quite comfortable enough and you're hyper aware of every sound," Bella chuckled. "It's a bit more harrowing as a woman."
"Did something happen to you?" I asked, my hackles rising.
"Not me. My roommate. Angela was mugged while she was interviewing for her first job after she graduated from college," Bella explained. "It could have been worse, but a good Samaritan chased the mugger away before … well …"
"You don't have to say anymore," I frowned. The car door opened and I slid out, handing the driver his payment, plus a hefty tip. I balanced my computer bag and suitcase, making my way upstairs. "Did they catch the guy who mugged your friend?"
"Yeah. Karma bit him in the ass. He got hit by a car. An old lady rolled through a stoplight and he broke his leg," Bella explained. "Angela still pressed charges and it turned out that the guy had several warrants out for his arrest for other crimes. Proof that crime doesn't pay."
"Well, that's good," I said, unlocking my door and walking directly to my couch. I collapsed onto it and kicked off my dress shoes. "It's so nice to be home."
"Will I see your handsome face this weekend?" she asked.
"I have to do some work, but I'd like to see my two favorite girls," I cooed.
"Would you be willing to go shopping with me and Katie?" Bella murmured. "I need to get her presents. There are a few things I need to get and …"
"I'll be happy, angel," I smiled. "While you shop for Katie, she can help me find a present for you."
"Edward," she chided.
"It's a boyfriend's prerogative to spoil his girlfriend," I quipped.
"Then, I'll have to spoil you, too," she sighed dramatically. "Oh, and I've spoken to my MAC family. We're all good to go for a Christmas Eve celebration at my house. We're doing a white elephant gift exchange. Either regift something you've received or bring something new, but nothing over $25."
"That's doable," I yawned.
"Go to sleep, Grinch," Bella urged.
"This Grinch is exhausted," I mumbled. "I'll see you tomorrow, angel."
We said good night and I dragged my exhausted body to the bedroom. I put my suits, shirts and one of my ties into my dry cleaning bag. I stripped out of my clothes and fell into bed, crashing almost as soon as my head hit the pillow.
The next day, I dropped of my laundry, picked up Sam and went to the grocery store before heading over to Bella's. It was Katie who suggested we go to the same outdoor mall that she'd gone to on Black Friday with Alice and her sister. I drove us out to the suburbs, spending the day shopping. With Katie's help, I found Bella two presents and paid for a couple of presents for Katie to give to her sister.
After our shopping excursion, we drove back to the city and took Katie to the Christkindlmarket. She had her picture taken with the with the Christkind, the blonde, crowned incarnation of Jesus Christ. We shared mugs of hot chocolate, devoured pretzels and bought a few more ornaments for the tree, including a couple for Katie's tree in her room.
We drove back to my condo, which was completely devoid of any holiday décor. When I came back from taking Sam out for a walk, Katie ripped me a new one. She was so sad to see my home look so empty and she wanted to give me her tree. I thanked her, but gently reminded her that a pink Barbie tree didn't really match my masculine decorations. Bella hopped in and told her that I'd been out of town. I hadn't had a chance to put up my decorations. I agreed with her and I made mental note to pick up a tree, lights and decorations at some point.
Bella asked to keep Katie's presents at my place since Katie was notorious for trying to see what she got before Christmas. I agreed and kept the gifts in my closet, along with the gifts I'd purchased for Bella and the few I'd picked up for Katie, as well. After hiding the presents, I drove them both home since I was mildly jetlagged and still exhausted from my business trip. I wanted nothing more than to spend the rest of my evening, kissing and being with Bella. Unfortunately, my old body had other ideas.
Sleep overrode my libido.
Until the next morning, but a long session in the shower took care of that.
xx FFADS xx
A couple weeks had passed since I'd returned from New York and this weekend, we were attending the New Moon Cosmetics launch party. It was being held at the Peninsula Hotel. Bella and Alice had taken a half day to get ready for the event. Victoria had arranged for them to enjoy some time at the spa in the hotel and to be made up, using the products from the launch.
Katie was spending the night with one of Bella's neighbors, Senna, whose daughter was Katie's closest friend. The following day, Senna was bringing Katie to the dance studio and she was going to try out the dance class that Bella had tentatively enrolled her in.
Because Katie was spending the night, I made arrangements for a room at the Peninsula. Bella and I had been taking things slowly when it came to physical intimacy. One night, after a rather heavy make out session on Bella's bed, I pulled away, almost in agony with arousal. I wanted more. I wanted her, but my brain was overriding everything.
"I'm a mess, Bella," I said, thrusting my hands into my hair. "I want this. I want you."
"So do I, Edward, but with your past … it makes sense that we take things slowly," she said gently. "I'd rather build our relationship on mutual respect, friendship and emotional intimacy than jumping right into bed."
"Really?" I asked. "You don't hate me. You don't think I'm … ugh!"
"Quite the opposite, Edward," she murmured, pulling my hands out of my hair. "Does that mean that I don't want rip off your clothes? Very much so, but that's the lust talking. I want to be with you, on your terms. When your head catches up with your heart? You'll know. For now, I'll just be being a lot of batteries." I arched a brow, turning to face her. She smirked, opening her nightstand drawer and revealing a purple vibrator. "Your kisses … they leave me aching."
"Trust me. I know," I said, adjusting my arousal in my jeans. "My dick has never been so soft."
"That doesn't make any sense," she giggled. "Don't you want to be hard?"
"Trying to give myself a hand job without any sort of lubrication? Recipe for disaster," I groaned. "So, I went and bought some lotion … your lotion. The same scent you wear and …" I blushed, falling back on her pillows. "I'm thirty-five and I'm a fucking moron."
"No, you're perfect, Edward. I think it's sweet that you make your junk smell like me," she snickered, snuggling up to me. She kissed my jaw and hopped off the bed.
"Where are you going?"
She walked back, tossing something to me. I caught it and recognized it as my body wash. "We're both morons, using your criteria. You always smell so delicious. When we dropped of the presents, I took a picture of your body wash and bought a couple of bottles."
I put the body wash onto the nightstand and pulled her into my arms. "How did I get so lucky? Thank you for being so … you," I breathed.
"You make it easy, Grinch," she said, sliding her arm around my waist. "But, you need to go. It's a work night and I've got a meeting tomorrow morning at Fringe, followed by a lunch with the Chicago CEO of Mario Tricoci and an afternoon of fine-tuning the Pixi rebrand. Busy, busy, busy … my boss is a real slave driver."
"I can yell at Alice for you," I teased.
"Hmmm, tempting, but no. Thank you for coming over and this will all be okay," she smiled, kissing my lips. "When we're both ready to take that step? It will be perfect; a physical representation of what we feel for each other. Not impulsive decisions based on lust and desire. It will be trust, love, balance, friendship, partnership, true intimacy."
I felt so much more at ease with Bella after that conversation. We were both on the same page, but I wanted to explore our physical relationship. I wanted to give her pleasure.
I'm not going to lie. The pervy male brain in me wanted Bella to strip naked and watch her get herself off.
So, I hoped that tonight, after the launch party, we could take things a bit further. Away from the house and in a hotel room … neutral ground. If she wasn't ready, I'd be disappointed, but I'd honor her wishes.
"Boss," Emmett said. "You awake?"
"Huh?" I answered intelligently.
"You were spacing out, Edward," Emmett smiled. "Shelly called you twice before she sent me inside. You were looking at Bella's picture on your desk. Everything okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine. You ready for tonight?" I asked. Emmett was invited since he was on the team that created the New Moon advertising campaign. Rose was attending as his date.
"Not looking forward to wearing a suit, but I'm looking forward to spending time with Rose. Since I've started my new position, I've been chained to my office, trying to create my team and set up preliminary meetings with clients. I don't know how Alice and the rest of the team leaders make it look so easy," Emmett answered.
"Have you delegated to your second in command? Sophie? When I met with her, she seemed to know what she was doing," I asked.
"Sophie and I make a good team and I have delegated, but it's still a lot of work. The other candidates that have submitted resumes and applied for the positions are not strong," Emmett shrugged. "Anyway, Rose just left and she wanted me to remind you that your suit is in your office, along with a car that is waiting in the basement to drive you to the Peninsula. I'm heading home to change."
"Thanks for the reminder," I chuckled.
"You coming to the bar for the game this weekend?" he asked by the doorway. "We've missed you the past couple of weeks."
"I'm planning on it," I said. "With Thanksgiving, that business trip and real life, I'd spent more time in the office."
"Or, with Bella," Emmett teased. I blushed and grinned. "I'm not giving you shit, Edward. It's a new relationship. You want to spend time with your girl. I get it. But, your boys want to see your ugly mug. New bar this week …"
"Where?" I asked.
"Timothy O'Tooles Pub," Emmett answered. "We're meeting at eleven." He waved as he ducked out of my office.
I got up, locking my door and walked into the private bathroom. I'd pulled more all-nighters than I could count. I was eternally grateful for the previous owner for installing a shower in the private bathroom. I stripped out of my clothes and took a quick shower, scouring my body and hair. Once I was clean, I put on a fresh pair of boxer briefs. My face was a bit scruffy and I didn't restock razors in here. I grumbled internally while I tried to tame my hair. Spraying on some cologne, I dressed in a navy blue suit. As I was tying my tie, my cell phone chirped and it was the car I'd arranged. I responded that I was on my way down. I also sent a text to Bella, informing her that I was on my way.
Riding down to the basement, I got into the waiting black car. I checked my email while the driver navigated the crowded city streets. He pulled up to the Peninsula hotel. "Will you be needing me later on tonight, Mr. Cullen?" he asked.
"I don't think so," I said, handing him a tip. The car service was paid for through the company. "Thank you and have a great holiday season."
"You, too, Mr. Cullen," he grinned, pocketing the tip.
Sliding out of the car, I walked into the Peninsula. It was crowded, but I noticed Bella right away. She was standing near the Christmas tree. She was wearing an exquisite lace burgundy cocktail dress. Her hair was falling over her shoulders in soft waves, pinned back from her face. She wore some chunky gold jewelry, a pair of gold strappy heels and a gold clutch. I practically floated toward her. "Bella, you look … I have no words," I whispered.
She smiled at me. Her makeup was elegant and understated, enhancing her natural beauty. "You look sexy has hell in that tuxedo, Edward," she purred, running her fingers along my tie.
"You are sexy, exquisite, beautiful and perfect," I whispered, punctuating each compliment with a sweet kiss to her skin and ending with her lips. "How was your date with Alice?"
"It was amazing. Victoria made arrangements for massages, manicures, pedicures, hair and makeup," she grinned, wiggling her fingers. She had soft manicure on her fingers, but her toes matched her dress. "Anyway, Alice and Jasper are already upstairs. Emmett texted me and he said that he and Rose are on their way."
"We have one stop to make, if it's okay with you," I smiled, tucking her arm into mine. We walked to the front desk. "Hello, I'm Edward Cullen and I reserved a room?" I blinked to Bella and she gave me a warm grin. She's okay with this. Excellent.
"I have your reservation, Mr. Cullen," the receptionist said. "I'll just need a credit card for any incidental costs." I slid over my card. With a few key strokes, my credit card and two keycards. "Enjoy your stay."
"Thank you," I replied, tucking the cards into my pocket. Threading fingers with Bella's, we walked to the bank of elevators. Once inside, I squeezed her hand. "I wanted to have the option. I know that Katie is spending the night with her friend and …"
"Edward, I'm okay with us spending the night. It will be nice to sleep with you in a bed and not on a couch," she teased.
The doors to the elevator opened. The room outside of the ball room was decorated in black, gold, white and silver. It should have looked gaudy, but it was elegant and made the entire space sparkle. There was a photographer, snapping photos. She took a few photos and I'd hoped that copies would be made available.
"Bella," Victoria breathed, teetering toward us. She was wearing a black dress that hugged every curve. "You made it!" She hugged my girlfriend. "You look exquisite, girl."
"So do you," Bella beamed. "I love your dress and this party is insane, in the best way, of course."
"Thanks," she chirped. "Edward, I'm happy you came as well. Bella has been invaluable and you've got a great team."
"Bella's more than just a teammate," I said, sliding my arm around her waist.
"Oooh, la la," Victoria sang. "I recognized some fireworks between you two. Now, smile for the camera. These are going on the website. Maria … come take our picture!" The photographer scurried over and more pictures were taken. "Thanks, Maria! You are amazing! Now, you two? Drink some free alcohol and eat delicious nosh. Laurent is inside with his new girlfriend."
"You don't like her?" Bella asked.
"She's a bit slutty and money-hungry," Victoria grumbled. "Also, her tits are lopsided." She cupped her breasts and adjusted them in her dress. "Anyway, have you seen Emmett? He's the last one I need to take a picture with. We also need a group shot."
"Emmett's on his way. He's been recently promoted," I said. "He's building his own team. Bella's also been promoted, too."
"I took over for Emmett," Bella blushed, gently elbowing my side.
Victoria grinned happily, swiping a few glasses of champagne. She handed one to both Bella and me before taking one for herself. "To promotions, success, business relationships and new love!"
Bella and I clinked our glass with hers, taking a sip. "To all the happiness in the world," I added. Bella clinked her glass to mine, grinning secretly. I brushed my lips along her temple and she just snuggled closer.
"I see Emmett and his girlfriend," Victoria said, putting her glass on a passing server's tray.
"Come, angel," I said, weaving my fingers with Bella's. "Let's mingle."
The inside of the ballroom was decorated beautifully. It sparkled under the specialty lights. Photos from the campaign were projected on various screens and the makeup was displayed elegantly around the room. There was music playing, giving the room a funky vibe.
"This has got to be the coolest launch party I'd ever been to," Alice gushed, hugging Bella and then quickly squeezing me. "Victoria has told me that presales are through the roof and the hype is mainly positive."
"Mainly?" Jasper asked.
"A few negative reviews, but they are from New Moon's competitors," Alice said, rolling her eyes. "Oh, there's Laurent! We should congratulate him."
Navigating through the crowd, Alice tapped on Laurent's shoulder. He turned around, his smile wide and blinding. "Alice! Bella!" he said, hugging them both. "Jasper, it's good to see you." He shook hands with Jasper. "And, Mr. Cullen, thank you for coming." I shook hands with him, as well.
"Congratulations, Laurent. You must be so proud," I grinned.
"We worked hard for years and to see it come to fruition? It's beyond amazing," Laurent said. "It wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of everyone on the advertising team." He blinked to Bella. "You are a goddess, Bella. Your ideas are fresh, innovative and perfect for our new line."
"It was a team effort," Bella said humbly.
"Laurie! They didn't have Macallan whiskey, only Johnnie Walker Blue," said a female voice. I cringed, recognizing it immediately. "Here you go, baby." She sashayed up to Laurent, handing him a glass. She was wearing a dress that barely legal, displaying her body in an unflattering way. Her hair was bleached blonde and her makeup was caked on. With an impassive expression, her ice-blue eyes found mine. "Edward, fancy seeing you here."
I glowered at her, wanting the world to swallow me whole. "Tanya …"
Fuck. My. Life.
A/N: Sorry … cliffhanger.
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