Author's note: Thanks for continuing to read and review. Whether you are a regular reader, reviewer, lurker, or new to the story, it's great to have you with me.

Thank you as always to Fran, my beta and secret keeper. She's the only one who knows how all this ends and helps me plan how to get there, which is taking longer than planned, but you guys seem happy to indulge me.

*Chapter 36*

I'm in the living room chatting with Rosalie and Alice when a flurry of activity catches the security team's attention on their high-tech surveillance devices. Michael, my newly appointed and highly regarded bodyguard, remains with us as most of the men leave the room. Reassuringly, they aren't in any great hurry, so I can only assume the disturbance isn't of great concern. Or at least I hope not.

A few moments later, the door opens to reveal Emmett, with Edward following closely behind. Whether their interrogation was a success, it's hard to tell because their expressions give absolutely nothing away. From Carlisle's earlier phone call, I gathered they had some sort of breakthrough with James, but looking at them now, it's hard to tell. Emmett appears frustrated, while Edward looks just plain exhausted.

It doesn't escape my notice that they are both wearing different clothes; it doesn't take a genius to figure out why that may be ...

They walk towards us, and I watch Rosalie greet Emmett with an over-enthusiastic kiss, which borders on indecent given they have company. My heart lurches in longing, and I feel a sudden dart of unreasonable and uncontrollable jealousy as I watch the two of them embrace.

I miss kisses like that.

In contrast, Edward comes to sit next to me on the sofa. He's right beside me, but he may as well be on the other side of the room for the distance between us. He offers me a small, shy smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes. I hate this awkwardness, and I'm certain Edward does too because he looks sad … forlorn. His eyes are filled with longing as he observes the closeness of our friends. Their relationship is thriving; The incident has brought them closer.

As for us ... I can't even describe what it's done to our marriage because it's still too early to say. However, I know it's unfair to punish Edward and myself with this completely unnecessary over cautiousness around one another. We've said what needed to be said. We need time to hopefully work through our problems, not distance.

Perhaps, I need to show my husband that while I need to process everything that's happened, I don't want him walking around on eggshells around me - afraid to even touch me. Far from it; I need his touch and the comfort that touch brings now more than ever.

Does Edward understand this? Have I not been clear about how I feel … about how much I still love him? Did I come down too hard on him, and that's why he is so hesitant?

Deciding I need to take action, I'm on the verge of throwing my arms around him and giving Edward the type of kiss we both long for; however, I stop myself. I'm still cautious because we have a way to go before we get back to what we had.

Still, I want to give Edward some encouragement … assurance ... a sign that I want him; that I'm not opposed to physical contact … a hug … a kiss … I would take him holding my hand at this point.

Throwing caution to the wind, I shift closer and snuggle into his side. Edward gazes down at me with warm green eyes, offering me an elated, surprised smile before he wraps his arms around my shoulder, drawing me against him. Unable to help myself, I snuggle even closer, resting my head against his chest as his hand trails an invisible path up and down my arms, raising goosebumps on my skin.

Looking up, I can't hide my delight when his head dips slightly, and he places a gentle kiss on my forehead. I feel my cheeks heat with a familiar blush as we stare at one another.

My heart sings in relief; it's a small gesture, but it's a huge relief to feel our connection is still strong. Just the fact that a simple gesture can bring out such emotion ... fills me with hope.

Edward's beaming smile tells me he's pleased by my action too.

Of course, not everyone approves of our tentative steps towards reconciliation. Rosalie returns to her former hostile self when it comes to my husband. She doesn't hide her displeasure as she glares across at us.

"It didn't take you long to worm your way back in her good graces," she sneers.

"Rose," I scorn, while Emmett nudges her side, sending her a sharp look, which she sends right back at him.

Emmett might not be used to her moods, but I am. I know a lecture is coming, so I step in to stop her laying into Edward.

"Enough! We have more pressing concerns to worry about."

While I appreciate Rosalie's fierceness, I refuse to let her disrespect Edward; if I'm working on forgiving him, she will have to accept that. "Edward has apologized for what happened, Rose. He's my husband; we're having a baby; there's a lot at stake. You're angry - I get it, but we are trying, so can you please cut out the sarcastic remarks."

"I'm supposed to just be okay …forget everything he said and did?" she's venting, visibly angry.

"Please, Rose …" I begin, only for Edward to cut in.

"It's okay, Bella," he says, bringing my attention to him. He seems calm and completely unfazed by her anger. "Rosalie is mad at me; understandably so, but I'm prepared to work hard to earn hers, but most importantly, your forgiveness."

I can hear the sincerity in his words. I don't know what to say, so I stay silent. That's when Carlisle comes into the room, drawing our attention to him.

"Can I have a word?" he asks, directing his question to Edward and Emmett.

"Anything you want to say to me you can say in front of Bella," Edward says, surprising not just me but the rest of the family.

I jerk back, shocked by what he's suggesting. Looking across at Alice, her eyebrows shoot up in surprise, and I can tell this is new because women stay out of the family business ... Or so I thought.

"Rose should hear this too," Emmett echoes, but Carlisle isn't convinced.

"Do you think that's wise?"

"Bella and Rosalie were wronged; they have every right to be part of our discussions. This affects them too," Edward says strongly.

I glance up at him, but his gaze is focused on Carlisle. There seems to be some sort of silent conversation going on. A look passes between them before Edward continues to fight for us to join them.

"They were the ones taken - they should have a say in how we plan to retaliate."

I'm both shocked and elated by Edward's words. The fact that he's even suggesting we have a part in this conversation is huge. Moreover, I can see from Carlisle's expression how big a deal this is.

I feel a sense of pride in my husband's actions. He's trusting me ... letting me in … showing me he is open to change. The only way forward is to be open and honest with each other - starting with Edward's involvement in the family business.

Touched by the gesture, I squeeze his hand and whisper a quiet 'thank you,' showing him how much I appreciate his attempt. That's not to say I want exclusive involvement in Edward's business with the family; far from it. However, I was targeted, and Edward understands why I would want to be kept up to speed on personal issues involving both Rosalie and me.

"I agree with Edward. They deserve to know what we found out, Dad." Emmett backs him up while Carlisle appears to be thinking it over. After a few drawn-out moments, he finally nods in agreement.

"Very well. In that case, perhaps we should take this conversation to my office," he suggests.

We make our way into Carlisle's office, and the last time I was in here springs to mind - back when I thought he hated me; how things have changed.

I'm hovering, uncertain of where I should sit, when Edward places his hand on my back, gently guiding me towards a seat. He pulls my chair out, and once I'm seated, he sits next to me as the others take their places. Edward gently takes my hand in his - I'm not sure if it was for his benefit or mine, but I appreciate the gesture all the same.

Jasper nor any other members of the family are present. Then again, I've not seen him in a few hours, so I can only assume he is busy doing a job for the family.

"I gather James was unable to point you to where exactly Marcus is hiding."

Carlisle is straight to the point. It shouldn't surprise me. This is the first time I've witnessed him in full boss mode, and he's every bit as direct as I expected him to be.

"Marcus wasn't stupid enough to tell him where he was hiding," Emmett says, sounding frustrated. "James didn't know very much, but we have identified a few locations and are working through those properties now."

"And James?" Carlisle says simply.

"He's been taken care of," Edward responds, his voice utterly emotionless.

Carlisle nods then pauses for a moment, debating his next sentence very carefully.

"In that case, we need to explore all those locations with caution. We don't know who's helping him, so we will need to keep this between us - close family only and the men we have guarding the property as we explore those options. We don't want Marcus to know we're closing in if, in fact, we are. However, when we pinpoint his location, we will need all our men."

"We're not leaving this house vulnerable." Edward interrupts, his tone harsh … irritated. His anger is clear.

"I wasn't suggesting for one minute we did, Edward," Carlisle snaps back.

Not only is he annoyed by Edward's words, he's angry too. I can see it in the way the muscle in his jaw clenches that he's pissed at Edward's apparent lack of respect. However, I know he means no disrespect; Edward is only worried about his family's safety.

"The fact remains we are short on people we can trust right now. If we go after Marcus, we will be minimized here. We don't have people we trust to adequately do both." Edward says in a calmer tone. He's trying to hold his temper. He turns back to Carlisle, who seems to consider his words carefully without a resolution.

"We are limited - I can't deny that Edward. The fact remains that any men we use to help us look for Marcus leaves us short here."

"Why not talk to the Russians? Maybe they'd help you find Marcus?"

I don't know what possesses me to speak up; the words fall out of my mouth before I can contain them. But what I say has merit, and encouraged by the positive looks I receive, I push on.

"You want to build a relationship with them ... Why not start now? Plus, I bet they're thankful you didn't look to them when I came up missing. I think that was what James and Marcus wanted to happen. James as much as told me so himself. He said Edward would go off half-cocked when he realized I'd been kidnapped and blame the Russians. Then your family would all be killed, and he could take over."

Met with the shocked faces of everyone around me, I refuse to cower; I'm determined to be strong ... to be useful. Edward invited me here because he trusts me. I need to show my worth. My eyes find his, and my confidence surges at the crooked smile he sends my way.

"Bella's has made a great suggestion," He praises, and I can tell he means it.

"It makes sense to approach them if we want to build trust between the families. And they want Marcus punished just as much as we do for setting them up."

When he squeezes my hands, I look down I see the bruises on his knuckles and can't help but run my hands over his - lightly tracing the marks.

Edward's eyes meet mine, and for a moment, it's just the two of us in the room until Carlisle's voice breaks us from our moment.

"I agree. I'll make the call; arrange a meeting with Alexis as soon as I can," Carlisle says. "I trust you have the places you mentioned under surveillance in the meantime?"

"Some, but not all. As we speak, Jasper is arranging cover for all the buildings, but we can take turns checking in between us," Emmett offers, but Carlisle disagrees.

"Let Jasper take care of that. I would prefer you and Edward be with me when we meet with the Russians; present a united front. If they agree to help, we may be working with them in the future."

...

The rest of the day feels somewhat anticlimactic. I spend most of my time with Rose, which is a great distraction, and for a few hours, everything almost feels normal. Despite our earlier disagreement, it's like old times as the two of us enjoy some quiet time together. Alice joins us too, and with two pregnant ladies, talk inevitably turns to all things baby. We talk craving ... the aches … the heartburn … some of which Alice is lucky enough not to have experienced just yet. I even brave discussing the birth, but Alice shuts down that conversation pretty quickly because apparently, it's too soon for her to contemplate the trauma of childbirth when she still has months to go.

Sadly, I see very little of Edward or even Emmett for that matter because if they are not locked away in Carlisle's office, they are on their phones making calls, checking in with Jasper and other members of the family.

They've arranged to meet Alexis at one of their clubs, and it's early in the evening when Edward finally joins us in the living room.

I can't help but stare at him for a moment. He's made an effort for tonight's meeting; He's clean-shaven, and his hair is its usual chaotic mess. He has attempted to tame it, but a few wayward strands stick out, giving him that perfectly tousled look that most men try and fail to achieve.

And don't even get me started on what he's wearing. My husband looks good in anything, but nothing compares to how shit hot Edward looks in a suit. I swear he's trying to kill me because he's wearing not just any suit, but the one he knows is my favorite - the gray one, paired with a crisp white shirt and skinny gray tie. My mind should be focused on other things, and I shouldn't let his appearance affect me, but it's impossible not to be distracted when Edward looks so incredible. I blame my hormones. His mouth twitches slightly at the corners hiding a knowing smile. He's caught me red-handed, but I don't have it in me to care or even look away.

As he walks towards me, I try not to stare, but if the harsh look Rosalie sends my way is anything to go by, I'm far from discreet. Eager to avoid another earful from Rosalie, I go over to meet Edward, urging him to follow me to another room, so we have a little more privacy.

"Are you all set for your meeting with Alexis?" I ask when we are alone.

"Almost. Carlisle is just running through some last-minute details with Emmett; then we are good to go."

"You don't need to be with them?" I wonder.

"Maybe … possibly … I wanted to spend some time with you more," Edward tells me shyly.

I try to play it cool, but I can't contain the smile that lights up my face at his admission.

"I feel like I've barely seen you all day, Bella. I hope you don't think it's intentional. Believe me, I've wanted to spend some time together, but I've barely had a moment to myself," he explains, looking remorseful.

"Don't be silly. You have a lot going on - I understand that. Are you all set for tonight?"

"I think so; there's not a lot we can do until we've spoken to Alexis. I have no idea how long it will take, or what time we will be back, but don't worry, you won't be alone," he says before an amused look passes across his face.

"Edward ..." I groan because after the way he kicked off in the meeting, I can only imagine how many guards he is insisting on staying with us.

"You don't have to go overboard. I have Michael as well as Rose guarding me. She's more dangerous, so you can call off your army." I tease.

Poking his rib, he catches my hands, gently intertwining our fingers. Encouraged by my playfulness, Edward moves in closer, and once again, I'm reminded of not only how good he looks but how incredible he smells too. It's a deadly combination, and as his arms settle around my waist, drawing me closer, I can't stop myself from leaning into him.

"It's not exactly an army … Although saying that, their leader is more dangerous than any hitman I've ever met," he smirks. I smile in spite of myself. It's lovely seeing Edward's playful side again. I've missed this … missed him.

"Great ... what dictator do you have watching my every move," I fake annoyance.

"Think of this as more of a friendly takeover."

"Alice!" I exclaim, which Edward finds highly amusing.

"No ... that's not who I was referring to, but I'm sure she will be delighted to hear she was the first person you thought of," he smirks.

"Don't you dare tell her I said that! So, are you going to tell me who it is?" I probe.

"You'll see," he says, smirking. For a moment, it's just me and Edward teasing and flirting with one another. My heart feels lighter ... fuller. Moments like this make me forget all the drama going on around us. It reminds me of happier times when Edward and I were getting to know one another … falling in love.

I want a few more moments together before the reality hits, and I have to let Edward go ... let him try to sort out this mess. I miss him so much, miss this; teasing, the flirting, most importantly kissing … Intimacy … the closeness. There's no denying it; I just miss my husband.

"Can you give me a clue?" I ask, trying to be flirty, attempting to coax it out of him.

Then his expression changes, and I feel my stomach flip, and I swallow hard at the dark, lustful look in his eyes. Edward's hands settle around my waist; his finger plays with the edge of my shirt. His hands slip under, his fingertips grazing the skin.

He has an unreadable expression on his face, and I bite my bottom lip, wondering what he is thinking. His eyes meet mine; the atmosphere feels electric. His lips are so close to mine it's almost painful.

I know I should be stronger. My head tells me to take it slow - not rush this, but my heart and, more importantly, my body is desperate for more. I want him to kiss me so badly.

I could blame the hormones, but the truth is it's Edward. It's always been Edward and the effect he has on me from the night we met; That unexplainable pull … connection … whatever you want to call it, that makes me do crazy things like screw the rule, screw taking this slowly I want Edward to kiss me so badly. We are both quiet for a moment; His eyes linger on my face before sliding towards my lips. They twitch in anticipation.

What is he waiting for?

Either Edward can read my mind, or I've spoken aloud without intending to because he answers my thoughts.

"I really want to kiss you now, but if I do, I won't be able to stop," he sighs heavily, and I frown when he abruptly pulls away, putting some distance between the two of us.

Seeing the disappointment on my face, Edward explains.

"Trust me; I want more, but only when you're ready. I can't … I won't mess this up by rushing you," he tells me, sounding serious.

But I want you to ... I scream.

Edward takes my hand in his and tells me, "Come on, let's go see your new bodyguard." He winks at me before we walk towards the other side of the house to the kitchen.

"Are you making me dinner?" I tease.

"Emm … no," Edward looks flustered ... embarrassed … maybe even bashful. It's a look I so rarely see, but it's kinda cute to see Edward blushing.

"Why, would you like me to?" He asks uncertainly.

Thinking back to his many disasters in the kitchen, I'm quick to reassure him.

"No, you're okay. But thank you for the offer." I can't resist reaching up and placing a quick kiss on his cheek.

...

I hear the commotion in the kitchen before we are even halfway down the corridor. There is a lot of noise - it sounds like various pots and pans are being thrown against the surfaces. Someone is really going to town in there with all the clattering taking place. Perhaps, I would be nervous if it weren't for the amused expression on the guards' faces and Edward's beaming smile.

"Aren't you going in first … to check everything is okay?" I tease as we approach the source of the disturbance.

"Not a chance," Edward shudders in response before telling me, "the last time I did, she threatened me with a knife if I didn't get out of there fast!"

I snort, thinking he is teasing, but apparently, he isn't joking!

I wonder who he is talking about. Esme maybe? Who else would be messing around in the kitchen and being so blatant about it?

I snigger; Esme doesn't strike me as an angry cook, but I guess who knows how stressful her day has been. Heck, after the stressful times we've all been through recently, we are within our rights to snap and reach a breaking point.

Opening the door cautiously, I can't contain my joy when I spot the person behind all this noise.

I should have known ...

"Nanna!"

I leave Edward standing as I rush over to embrace her.

"Bella!" she exclaims before hitting me with a lot of questions.

"How are you?"

"How are you and my grandchild holding up?"

"Esme tells me you have been to see a doctor already; when are you going in for your next checkup?"

Finally, when I'm able to get a word in, I relay the same story I've told both Esme and Carlisle before. Usually, I'd feel uncomfortable with all the focus on me, but it's nice to feel cared for. Nanna ushers me towards the breakfast bar, where I take a seat while Edward is distracted on his phone. He leaves the room briefly to take a call.

"That smells so good," I say in awe. Glancing around the room and spying all the food she's preparing; anyone would think we were inviting the Russians here for a banquet; there's so much food!

"I hope you're hungry," Nanna says, patting my stomach lightly.

"Absolutely," my stomach actually rumbles from the smell alone.

A few moments later, when Edward comes over to speak with me, there's a nervous look on his face, and I already know what he is going to tell me.

"It's time for you to go?" I'm almost afraid to ask.

Though I try to hide it, a sudden nervousness hits me when Edward tells me it's time for him to meet Alexis, which he picks up on immediately.

"Why do you look so nervous?"

I look down, shrugging. Keeping my eyes downcast, I take a second to calm myself.

"What's wrong, Bella?"

The concern in Edward's voice forces my gaze up, and my troubled eyes meet his concerned ones.

"You know you have no reason to worry. This is just a preliminary meeting to discuss working together. Nothing will be finalized tonight."

I nod back, unable to speak. I'm being completely emotional and irrational. I blame the hormones. One minute I'm angry, and the next minute, all I want to do is cry, which is completely ridiculous.

I trust Edward, and I know he is more than capable of looking after himself. But for some reason, I can't shake the worry at the back of my mind that something could go wrong. If that happens, I will never forgive myself. After all, it was my idea to essentially work with the Russians.

"Promise me you will be careful?" My voice is heavy and filled with worry.

"There's nothing to worry about, Bella," Edward soothes. "We're extra cautious - now more than ever."

"I know that … I just couldn't bear it if anything happened to you … to any of the family because of my stupid idea …. something I suggested," I admit. I hate how anxious I sound, but it's only natural to worry after everything that's happened.

Edward reaches out to tenderly take my face in his hands. His fingers move across my face, and his thumb lightly brushes against my cheek as he steps even closer.

"Your idea was perfect. I'm so fucking proud of you. I can't tell you how much. I would show you, but then I would be breaking my promise to give you the time and space you wanted."

"I want you to break your promise."

Shit!

So much for being firm. All it takes is Edward in a suit and a few sweet words, and I turn into a fucking marshmallow.

We stare at each other, waiting for the other to react first. The air between us suddenly seems charged again, and I know it's not just me; Edward's eyes are bright, his breathing shallow.

"You are making it very difficult for me to be a gentleman, Bella," he growls.

"Then don't ... don't be so good," I whisper. I'm breathless, dazed, and speechless.

After what feels like hours, but is probably only a few moments, Edward presses a gentle kiss to my cheek before he pulls back, resting his forehead against mine.

He leans towards me; his lips brushing mine as he says, "You're not ready now ... it's too soon. I'm going to work hard on making it so we're never in this place again. I take full responsibility, and I will make it better … better than it was before, I promise you, Bella."

Author's note: Until next week stay safe and well.

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