Author's note: I'm so happy you liked the last chapter. Nanna's return pleased a lot of people. The same can't be said for Rosalie - she annoyed many of you in the last chapter. Who do we think is going to put her in her place?
*Chapter 37*
I abruptly woke up when I felt a sharp jab in my stomach. The baby is wide awake and demanding food. Rubbing my stomach, I stretched, enjoying the warmth and comfort of this heavenly bed for a few more moments before forcing myself out.
My sleep was disrupted easily, being so far into my pregnancy. It took very little to disturb me nowadays, so for the second night in a row and after much internal debate, I decided it best I stay in my own room.
It wasn't an easy decision - it had pained me as I got ready for bed, knowing Edward would be sleeping right next door, but he warned me his meeting with the Russians had the potential to run late into the night. And besides the prospect of being woken at who knows what time, a few sweet moments didn't mean our marriage was suddenly okay.
The signs were good - really encouraging. As much as I had been disappointed by Edward's reluctance to initiate something physical before he left, he was right; we shouldn't rush. It was better to let our reunion happen naturally ... at our own pace.
If I'm honest, I don't think it will be long before either one of us (most likely me) give in. Despite the anguish and painful conversations we've recently had, I know in my heart I'm ready to forgive my husband.
Is it too soon? Maybe it is. Or maybe, it's the fact that we have a lot bigger concerns to deal with right now. With Marcus still on the loose and wondering whether the Russians will help, have put things into perspective for me.
I love Edward; I want our marriage to work. Moreover, I know we can move on and learn from this - be stronger together as a result of what happened. It's in the past. I don't look at him and see the man who looked at me with such disgust … who accused me of those awful things that broke me. I only see the man I love—a man who is desperate to protect his family and make this right. Edward is trying. He's been sweet … attentive … thoughtful, so I've decided to cut him some slack. With that in mind, I head downstairs, eager to find out how last night's meeting with the Russians went.
…
As I'm making my way, I hear a lot of noise coming from the kitchen. Smiling to myself, I assume it's Nanna on the warpath again, so it comes as a great surprise to hear a different voice amongst all the noise.
"This is fucking useless!" Edward exclaims, which is immediately followed by a sharp slap. Next, I hear what sounds like him groaning in pain.
"Féach ar do bhéal!" One of my favorite voices says. "And watch what you're doing over there. Don't overdo it," she scolds.
I'm about to rush in and offer my help when Edward's nervous voice stops me.
"Are you sure this is okay? It's not too ... cheesy?"
Bless him; he sounds so unsure of himself … almost hesitant. I can picture the puzzled expression on his face, though I'm still trying to figure out what exactly he's up to.
"You need to be cheesy … romantic … spontáineach! Do whatever it takes to win your wife round. Don't let pride get in your way," Nanna scorns.
Hearing them talking, I linger outside. I tell myself to leave, but I can't force my feet to move. Instead, I stand by the door like a fucking creeper in my in-law's house, listening to my husband and his nanna talking in hushed voices.
"I can't lose her, Nanna," Edwards' broken voice says. It pains me to hear him so dejected … so hopeless. I can hear the sadness in his voice.
"I don't need to tell you how much you messed up. You need to be prepared to do whatever it takes to earn Bella's forgiveness, but whatever you do, don't crowd her. Her hormones are all over the place right now ... Let her actions guide you," Nanna advises.
There's silence for a moment before Edward speaks.
"It's killing me to stay away. It's only been a fuc- a day." He catches himself in time before nanna has a reason to reprimand him again.
"It's been barely a couple of days, and I'm already going crazy. I want her here - next to me. I'm scared to let her out of my sight."'
It pains me to hear Edward so desperate, but it comes as a relief too - to know I'm not the only one struggling with our sort of separation.
"This isn't about what you want, Edward; it's about what Bella wants. You'll only cause a bigger rift if you crowd her." Nanna advises.
"I know … it's just ... hard," he says after a lengthy pause. "I miss her so much... I miss my wife."
A tear escapes, slipping down my cheek at his heartfelt words before Edward's voice echoes through the room.
"Shit! Mother fucker!" he shouts, followed by what sounds like another heavy smack.
"Put your hand under the cold water; A amadáin!" Nanna scolds.
"If this is your idea of romance, you have your work cut out for you. I told you to be careful. You are worse than hopeless."
"Maybe I should call the caterers or one of the chefs at the restaurants. They'll be able to knock up something far better than this shit I'm destroying." Edward vents then groan after nanna hits him again.
She's lethal.
"Cad a d'inis mé duit faoi do theanga"
"Hey, I'm injured!" Edward complains.
"You'll call a caterer over my dead body," she says, leaving no room for argument. "Now move out of the way. I'm talking over."
"But I want to do it; I want to help. Is there any way we can save this?" He says in a small voice.
"You serve Bella this, and I guarantee she'll be out of the door before you can blink. Now step aside," Nanna orders, and only then do I creep back to my room with a beaming smile on my face as I go.
…
I give them half an hour before heading back downstairs - making a big show of doing so. My footsteps are louder than usual … I'm extra chatty to the guards as I pass by the living room … I even announce my arrival by calling Edward's name.
"In here." His voice has a slightly nervous edge to it as he answers from the kitchen.
As I step inside the room, my smile is instant. The breakfast bar is full of all kinds of delicious treats; the full works. My stomach rumbles just looking at the feast that's lined up in front of me.
But what's more pleasing than any of those things is Edward's nervous smile. He's pulling out all the stops, but he's uncertain too … nervously watching my face, trying to read my reaction.
"Oh, my God, Edward, did you do this?"
I need to reassure him that he's done a great job - that I'm delighted by his surprise.
I smile back at him. I can't help it. He's so sweet … so thoughtful. I'm so overwhelmed with the need to be near to him ... to hug him, and I do just that. Edward wraps me in his arms, just holding me. I feel him kiss my hair, and I smile into his chest, moving as close as I can with our bump in between us.
I'm still smiling when we finally pull apart.
"This is amazing, thank you," I say in awe of the effort he's gone to - with nannas help, of course. But it's the thought that counts, and knowing how hopeless Edward is in the kitchen, I appreciate all he has done to make this possible.
"You didn't have to go to all this trouble, but I appreciate it." I praise.
"I had help - a lot of help," Edward admits, and I'm surprised to see he's blushing. This is a different side to my husband; it's a side I love just as much as his confident, cocky side.
"I had a few disasters, but you're worth it," he admits. Kissing my forehead, he takes my hand in his before leading me towards the feast.
I can't wipe the stupid smile off my face, overjoyed at the food in front of me. I don't know where to start. While Edward is making himself a coffee, I grab a croissant, which is still slightly warm, and a glass of fresh orange juice, though I'm already eyeing up the muffins and pancakes. Oh, and the waffles too; they look really good. Edward catches me staring at the array of food, but thankfully he seems pleased by my enthusiasm. His smile is contagious.
"How did last night go?" I ask, straight to the point. There's no use beating around the bush. I'm desperate to know how their discussion with the Russians went.
"It went well. We came to a mutual agreement that will benefit both families. They have agreed to help us find Marcus," Edward says simply.
"Just like that?"
"Just like that."
When he doesn't elaborate, I exhale then sigh, not quite annoyed; more disappointed. I hoped yesterday was a sign that Edward was more open to keeping me informed, but just like that, it feels like the wall is back up. I suppose it isn't realistic to expect such a turnaround overnight.
Edward reads my disappointment.
"Bella, I can tell you what happened, but really, there's not a lot to say. We spoke … we discussed boring business matters; some legal … some more questionable deals. They agreed to help us search for Marcus. That's all there was to it," he explains.
"So why not tell me that?" I wonder.
Edward smiles that crooked smile I love before he leans in closer, so his lips brush against my ear as he speaks.
"I'm trying to be romantic here. I figured talk of drugs and illegal gambling might kill the mood."
Despite the seriousness of our discussion, I can't help smiling back, relieved it's not simply a case of him shutting me out.
"Edward, as much as I love the effort you have gone to here ... your honesty and willingness to include me … share with me - that I like more. Besides, I worry, you know," I admit.
Edward reaches out and takes my hand; his thumb traces my palm. "You have nothing to worry about. You're safe here. I promise you; we have everything under control. Marcus and anyone he's working with is not getting close to you again. We will start looking for him today, and hopefully, with the Russians helping, all this will be over. You don't have to worry." He says, completely misreading the reason for my concern.
Edward has been honest with me; now it's my turn to tell him what I'm feeling.
"It's not me I'm worried about … I worry about you," I whisper.
"Don't worry about me. Everything is going to work out," Edward says with confidence. When he pulls back, he's smirking. "I hate to break it to you, but you can't get rid of me so easily. I told you I wasn't going to make it easy for you, and I have plenty more surprises lined up."
"More cooking?" I tease.
Edward's smile immediately vanishes.
"Emmm … no! I don't think that's a good idea; this was a fucking disaster!" he laughs. I join in. He might not know it, but I understand exactly how much of a nightmare this little surprise was for him. It makes me appreciate the gesture all the more.
"Well, I'm impressed," I say, squeezing his hand. "Thank you for doing all of this."
For a moment, we just stand there staring, smiling at each other, until a sudden sharp jab against my stomach winds me. No matter how many times the baby kicks, it still catches me unaware. I've experienced the occasional sharp pain and twinges, so this is nothing new, but still, it doesn't stop Edward from worrying. He's out of his seat and by my side in seconds, worriedly checking me over to find the source of my discomfort.
"What's wrong? Is it the baby?" he asks. I can see the panic in his eyes as he spots my hand resting on my stomach.
"Yes, but don't panic; it's only a twinge," I quickly explain, hoping to calm him. It doesn't- he still looks a little hesitant ... concerned.
"Relax, Edward. Your child is having a whale of a time in here poking my ribs," I explain.
"May I?" He asks shyly. I nod back, both loving and hating that he asked. I love he's thoughtful enough to ask, but I'm more disappointed that he feels he has to ask.
Taking action, Edward shifts closer, placing his hand on my tummy, his smile instant as he feels the movement under his palm.
"Wow!" He exclaims, with an awed expression on his face. "That's really powerful, huh?"
"You're telling me," I say as I place my hand over his. Edward looks up, and we smile at one another. It's so nice sharing moments like this. Neither of us says anything; our gazes locked as we sit, enjoying the movement our child makes. We stay where we are, staring at one another for an immeasurable amount of time; both with silly smiles on our faces as the baby moves against our hands.
"You don't have to ask, you know?" I say after a few moments.
At Edward's puzzled expression, I elaborate. "You can touch me anytime you want. I'm not opposed to a little physical contact … far from it," I say, blushing. My cheeks feel like they're on fire. I'm probably the color of a lobster.
"Is that so?" Edward smiles at me, the crooked smile I love the most. My blush deepens, and my heart starts to beat a little faster as he leans in closer.
"I miss you," his voice is quiet ... strained, and when he looks back at me, his eyes are filled with emotion … something I couldn't name; he appears uncharacteristically vulnerable.
"I'm right here."
"It's not the same thing," he sighs.
"No, it's not," I reply. Before I can second guess myself or talk myself out of it, my hands find their way into Edward's hair, pulling his face down towards mine. There's no use denying ... fighting the pull we feel to one another. We're drawn to each other like magnets.
Deciding enough is enough. I'm done with the games; done with the waiting when all I want to do is be with my husband … kiss my husband. And it's not the hormones talking. A small part of me fears I'm giving in too easily, but I know how I feel in my heart. My heart pounds in anticipation of Edward's reaction, and I feel slightly nervous … shy maybe, as I contemplate how I'm going to tell him I'm ready … that I forgive him and want to put this whole unfortunate incident behind us.
As I'm debating, he closes the distance between us. He reaches out to tenderly take my face in his hands. His fingers move across my face and his thumb lightly brushed against my cheek as he steps even closer.
"I miss you too," I tell him honestly. I look up in Edward's eye, he appears cautious at first, but he must see something in my eyes that pleases him because his smile widens. His eyes are staring straight into mine; I can see he's hopeful, anxious, mixed with excitement too.
"Edward, I know I asked for time … but I want … I need -" I start to say before a voice interrupts what would have been a beautiful moment.
"Well, isn't this cozy."
My eyes dart towards the doorway, where I see who's responsible for the interruption.
Rosalie …
I might have known.
Edward and I pull apart. I'm blushing again. Despite the untimely interruption, his smile is wide; he's so pleased … so fucking happy that I can't be embarrassed or annoyed by the interruption. We both know what I was about to say. Rosalie's' interruption doesn't take away from the joy of knowing we are in a good place … or at least we will be ... soon.
Edward winks at me before moving to the other side of the room. Now that he's at a safe distance, I turn my attention to Rosalie, who appears delighted to have interrupted our moment. Nanna is with her too, but she looks more irritated than amused by Rosalie's snide remark.
"Good morning, you two. Well, isn't this a lovely surprise to have breakfast prepared for us," Nanna says, sending Edward a sly wink she thinks I don't notice.
I struggle to contain my smile. She is such a little sneak - she lies so effortlessly. I'd never believed she didn't have a hand in any of this if I hadn't heard it with my ears.
When Edward comes back over to join us, Rose is in his seat, with Nanna opposite me, so he settles behind me, his arms around my waist from behind, his chin resting on my shoulder; his hands nestled against my bump, which has since eased its movement. I half turn and look up at him; he smiles back, dropping a quick kiss on my forehead before returning his gaze to our 'guests.'
As I catch Rosalie's narrowing her eyes at us, I sigh in disappointment. I had hoped a little time would help lessen her anger towards my husband, but it seems it hasn't, and I realize I will need to have another word with her when we are alone because this can't continue.
Edward's fingers move along my back in slow, soothing motions; he traces an invisible path along my back, which I'm sure is intended to calm me. He knows me so well. I'm certain he senses how Rosalie's hostility is riling me up.
My smile vanishes when Edward's arms release me, and he steps away.
"I'll leave you ladies to it. As you can see, there's plenty of food," he says bashfully.
"I think I'll pass," Rosalie sneers.
I'm about to tell her off when Edward's head dips low. He kisses my cheek and whispers in my ear to hold off on lecturing my best friend.
"Don't bother trying to reason with Rose on my account. This will piss her off more," he says, smirking.
At first, I wonder what he is talking about, but as he lingers in front of me, his hand reaches up; his fingers caress my cheek as he leans in; his forehead resting against mine. I know exactly what he's doing, and it's not just Edward who's having fun getting at Rosalie.
He's so close, but it's somehow not close enough. Uncaring or perhaps in spite of our audience, I reach up, my hands tangling into Edward's hair, as I gently pull his face down so I can whisper in his ear.
"You know, if you want to really piss her off, you should just kiss me ... or something," I say, playing along, biting my lips at my boldness. I mean, Nanna is only feet away, but as soon as Edward steps forward and nudges my legs apart, moving in between them, I forget all about anyone else in the room.
My hands reach out, finding his jeans. I hook my fingers in the loops as I drag him as close as physically possible. He remains close, hovering in front of me, his face mere millimeters from mine. My eyes are locked on his, practically begging him to kiss me. My breath is labored as his lips nip at my neck before he pulls back slightly so he can whisper in my ear.
"Soon."
That's it?
I whimper; I fucking whimper when he pulls away. Brushing a kiss on my forehead before turning to Nanna and Rose.
"I'll leave you ladies to enjoy your breakfast," he says, and then he's gone …
What the fuck?
I'm so distracted ... dazed, that Edward is halfway across the room before I hear Nanna giggling.
Shit!
I had been so caught up … so lost in Edward, I completely forgot she was even in the room. My cheeks heat, my throat feels suddenly dry. I can't even look Nanna in the eye until I've got myself under control.
What started as light flirting to annoy Rosalie has me hot and bothered and apparently Edward too - judging by the sheepish … slightly uncomfortable way he left the room.
...
With Edward gone, I turned my attention to the food in front of me, desperate for a distraction; anything to calm the frantic fluttering in my chest.
What is that man doing to me?
Once I've demolished the pastry in barely a couple of mouthfuls, I make a move to try some of the other delicious treats I saw earlier when I catch Rosalie's eye. She looks at me imploringly, and I know a lecture is coming.
She doesn't disappoint in telling me exactly what she thinks.
"It makes me angry just looking at him. I don't know how you can act like nothing ever happened."
I sigh, deflated and disappointed by her attitude.
"Because I love him, Rose, and he's trying so hard to make it up to me. Is it really so bad that I want to make this work … to focus on the good? We're having a baby. There's a lot at stake here." I say, my voice rising. I hate having to justify my loyalty to my husband to my best friend.
Nanna stays quiet; I assume she can't hear all our conversation. She's pottering in the background, making a start on a fresh pot of tea, so I take the opportunity to tell Rosalie some home truths she needs to hear.
"I can't deny he hurt me, but I'm hardly innocent."
"Bella, don't you dare-"
Rosalie starts to interrupt, but I cut her off quickly. She needs to hear this; she needs to stop thinking of Edward as the bad guy and me as the innocent victim.
"Let's not forget how all this started; I messed up; I came up with a stupid, dangerous, selfish plan that could have had serious repercussions for not just me, but my baby, too. But you know what, I got incredibly lucky. Despite all the odds against it, I met a wonderful, caring, and loving man, and we made our precious baby. I wouldn't change it for the world … not a single thing. I'm incredibly lucky and thankful that Edward chose to forgive me, and now I have this wonderful ... crazy family and a man who loves me and who I love in return. Love doesn't even come close to describing how I feel," I tell her passionately, hoping she will understand why I feel so strongly about making this work.
"I hear you, Bella, but I still can't help thinking you're letting him off too lightly. Back there, he was all over you; manipulating your emotions, and you let him," she accuses. Inside I'm raging … absolutely furious, but I try to keep hold of my temper.
"Rose, that wasn't Edward manipulating me. That was attraction ... love … desire, and if I had my way, we wouldn't be waiting around … dancing around one another. The only reason we are is because of Edward. He's honoring his word; he's giving me the time and space I asked for. He's not the bad guy you think he is," I tell her, but she looks unconvinced.
"Look at yesterday when he persuaded Carlisle to involve us in their meeting. He's proving he trusts me … he's letting me in. And it's not just that. Look at how desperate … how determined he was to find us ... to catch James and Marcus. He's protecting me ... protecting the family. And then he's gone to all this effort here," I say, gesturing to the feast in front of us.
"He could so easily have just got food brought in, but he's trying; going out of his comfort zone to impress me."
My pride grows when I consider the lengths he's going to, trying to make this right.
"I truly believe we are stronger because of what happened, and I can guarantee this will never happen again." I don't know what else I can say to convince her how strongly I feel.
"Doesn't it scare you how quickly you are forgiving him? It's been two days, and you're ready to forgive and forget. He's taking advantage of your hormones."
I sigh, shaking my head, but before I can say a word, Nanna speaks up.
Apparently, she's heard enough, and she doesn't mince her words.
"You need to pull your head in," I jumped at the sudden harshness in Nanna's voice. Her eyes narrow, focusing in on Rose, who visibly stiffens. I understand why; Nanna is kind-hearted and caring when you are on her good side, but if you get on her bad side, it's another story. Let's just say it's not pretty - it's intimidating. She's fierce! I wouldn't like to be on her bad side, that's for sure.
"I know you are trying to be a good friend to Bella, but there are a few things you need to understand before you go jumping in thinking you're helping," Nanna begins, her toner softer.
"In this family, there will inevitably be tough choices … decisions … actions we don't agree with. In any marriage or relationship, there will be conflict and disagreements, but we work through our problems when something is worth saving. Bella and Edward have a baby to think about firstly, but more than that, they love each other … they need each other ... they depend on one another. I'm not denying Edward screwed up, but you can't tell me you have ever seen Bella so happy as when she is with her husband."
Rosalie nods back, albeit reluctantly.
"I certainly haven't seen Edward so happy or content." Nanna continues. "This is not going to be easy for them, but you need to trust that Bella knows what she's doing for both her and her baby. They have something special - worth fighting for, and as much as you think you are helping, you need to leave them to sort out their own marriage. Think of it this way; If the tables were turned, would you want others interfering in your relationship with Emmett?"
"Well, no," Rose says, sounding downtrodden. Nanna reads this. Her fierce expression softens.
"It's wonderful that you care … that you are there for Bella, but you are not her. Be a friend, yes, but let her make her own decisions. If she wants to make a go of it, you need to respect her decisions. If Bella is happy … you're happy too, yes?"
I'm a mess; there are tears in my eyes because Nanna just gets it. I want to reach out and hug her, but I know it's not wise; I'm so close to tears already, the tiniest thing will set me off.
"When you put it like that, I sound like such a bitch," Rose says, attempting to lighten the mood.
"But you didn't see her after he accused her of those awful, vile things. His words destroyed her, and if he did that once, what's to stop him doubting you again?"
Hearing the concern in her voice, I reach across and lay my hand over hers. While I might not agree with her opinion, I can't fault Rosalie's loyalty.
She's worried about me.
"That is not going to happen; I can't tell you how I know, I just do. You are worried about me, and I love you for it, but you don't have to worry Rose, I'm happy … really happy." I tell her, smiling.
"I can see that. The only time you wiped that ridiculous grin off your face was when Edward left the room. I get it now." She concedes.
"You do?"
"I would have to be blind not to. I'll give him a break, okay?" Rosalie promises.
"That means so much. I hate seeing the two people I love at odds. Besides, I'm not gonna make it easy for him."
Scoffing, Rosalie doesn't attempt to hide her disbelief.
"Oh, please! You're a pushover when it comes to that man. Always have been; always will be," she says, but her voice lacks its usual venom.
"The same goes for Edward," Nanna interjects. We both turn to look at her. "I've never seen him so hopeless before. That boy is besotted with you. He'd do anything to make amends. You need to use that to your advantage."
Her smile is downright evil.
"What do you mean?"
"Right now, you hold all the cards. I'm not saying torture him, but don't waste the opportunity."
"Nannas right; Edward is willing to do whatever you want," Rose sniggers. She and Nanna are besties again - conspiring like two naughty schoolgirls.
"What am I missing?" I ask.
Now I'm even more confused. Is this what they call baby brain?
"Forgive him, yes but make him earn it too. You are heavily pregnant, and your husband is willing to do whatever it takes to make you happy. Right now, is your chance to call the shots. Don't waste it." she smirks.
"Give him hell." Rosalie echoes.
...
There is no awkwardness after our heart to heart, and straight away, we are laughing and teasing each other as we dig into our breakfast. I'm so much happier after having spoken to Rosalie. It's such a relief to have it all out in the open. She gets in now, which makes our breakfast so much more enjoyable.
The rest of the morning flies by, and if I'm not with Nanna; her telling me amusing stories from Edward's childhood, another member of the family is keeping an eye on me.
On this occasion, I'm catching up with Esme when Edward comes into the room and asks to speak with me. My initial response is to think that something is wrong, but the playful expression on his face tells me there is nothing to worry about. He looks far too pleased with himself for there to be anything to concern me.
"I have a surprise for you," Edward tells me as he leads me out of the living room.
"What have you done?"
"Patience, Bella. You'll soon find out," he says, giving me a lopsided grin.
I follow as he leads me through the hallway to another part of the house I've not ventured to before because it is freaking huge! At first, I struggle to keep up with Edward's long strides. He's not walking exceptionally fast - I'm just slowing down, and once he notices I'm falling behind; he waits for me to catch up. His hand finds mine, interlinking our fingers before we continue.
"Where are we going?"
"You'll see," he looks so pleased with himself.
Edward reaches a door and lets me in first. For a minute, all I do is stare because if I had to create a dream office, this would be it. There's a gorgeous antique desk and a beautiful chair that looks so comfy (don't judge -comfort is everything now.) The room is so light and spacious; perfect for working … concentrating, but there is also a relaxing area too - ideal for taking breaks away from the screen.
"What is this?" I ask as I gaze around the room, discovering more interesting features as I go. I don't know where to focus on.
"We need to head out soon to meet with the Russians. I thought you might like a space where you can work. You have a deadline coming up soon; I thought you might appreciate some peace and quiet. We don't know how long this is gonna take to sort out, and we could be here for a while."
For a moment, I'm silent, taking in the gesture and the thought behind it. It also surprises me how Edward even knows about my deadline. Though in hindsight, it really shouldn't surprise me. He always takes an interest in my work, but I never thought he took note of all the details. It's a lovely feeling knowing how much he listens and cares about things that are important to me.
"You remember the deadline?" I ask as I struggle to keep a hold of my emotions.
"Of course, I do. I take great interest in what you are working on, Bella. Besides, I know how much you want everything tied up before the baby gets here, so I thought having space for you to work from might help."
Unsurprisingly I feel tears forming at the back of my eye at such a thoughtful gesture.
Damn hormones.
I don't know what to say that sufficiently shows how much I love and appreciate the gesture, so I simply put my arms around his waist, pulling him towards me. Edward's arms settle around my waist; his one hand rubs my back. I don't know how he knows how good that feels, but it does.
"This is perfect, thank you. It's such an amazing gesture," I say when I've pulled myself together.
Edward pulls back slightly, looking down at me.
"You don't have to thank me, Bella. I know how much you worry; I thought a distraction might take your mind from worrying while we're out," he explains.
"You think I'll be able to concentrate when you are out looking for Marcus?" I question.
"No … I guess not, but I don't want you to. No matter how late we are, you can't get stressed. Chances are, it could take a while. Even if by some miracle we find Marcus, this could take all night, early hours before we're back. I probably won't see you until the morning," he says, sounding disappointed.
I try to appear calm but, of course, fail miserably.
"You don't need to look so concerned, Bella. We've got this, and believe me, we're not underestimating Marcus again." Edward says seriously.
Before I can reply, he wraps both his arms securely around me, tugging me against him. I immediately begin to relax; that's what Edward's touch does to me. At that moment, all the drama and pain of the last few days melt away. There is only Edward and me - I feel complete ... whole ... content again.
He holds me for what felt like hours but was likely only a few seconds before slowly loosening his hold. I sigh before taking a deep breath, lifting my eyes to meet his, finding his troubled gaze.
"I don't have to tell you to be careful, do I? Do what you need to do and come back to us," I repeat what seems to be my regular warning, of late. I sound like a broken record.
"I've told you before; you need to stop worrying about me."
"It's impossible not to. But I'll try … for you." I agree.
Edward takes my face in his hands, tracing my cheekbones with his thumb. When he lowers his face slightly, so our eyes are level, I can see the disappointment in his eyes as he tells me, "I really do need to go. Carlisle wants to talk before we meet the Russians."
Despite his words, he doesn't seem in any great hurry to leave, or maybe that's more to do with the tight grip I have on him. Still, he doesn't move; neither do I. It feels like a game - who's going to break first.
The anticipation is killing me. The air crackles as we stare at one another.
I'm desperate for him to stay ... to have a few more moments together. The family needs him, but I want him to stay. I don't care how selfish I sound.
"Please stay ... just a little longer." I hate how desperate … how needy I sound.
Edward sighs, then exhales. I can see he's torn.
"Bella, if I don't go now, I won't be able to control myself."
"Maybe I don't want you to control yourself … I want you," I whisper, pulling back slightly to read his reaction. We just stare at each other for a long moment before he shakes his head. A hint of a grin spreads across his face as he tells me, "don't tempt me, Bella. My control only stretches so far. I'm about ten seconds away from calling off the whole thing."
"Why don't you then?"
I'm not playing fair, I know it, but still, I can't stop myself as the words slip out of my mouth.
"You're evil," he says slowly, as he pries my hands off his, and steps back, out of my reach.
I watch him close his eyes, jaw tense, his sharp intake of breath.
He grins ... I blush before he leans down to kiss my cheek, stepping back, putting more distance between us before I can reach for him again. And he knows it too if the smug smile on his face is anything to go by.
"I really am going now." His tone completely changes ... he sounds unsure, hesitant, disappointed ... I don't like seeing Edward so unhappy.
He studies my face; he looks like he wants to say more, but he tells me goodbye.
"I'll see you in the morning," he says, his voice resigned.
While he looks disappointed, I'm struggling to contain my smile because Edward might not know it yet, but I won't be seeing him in the morning; It will be tonight, or maybe the early hours of the morning, depending on whatever time he gets back.
Because I'll be back in my room … in my bed ... In my rightful place beside my husband.
Author's note: Yeah, I'm such a tease, ending it here …
Is Bella too forgiving? Maybe, but I can't keep them apart any longer.
Let me know what you think…
Oh, I almost forgot. Here is what nanna was saying;
Watch your mouth! - Féach ar do bhéal!
spontaneous - spontáineach!
you fool - A amadáin!
What did I tell you about your language! -Cad a d'inis mé duit faoi do theanga
And remember to check out the It All Started with Twilight Facebook group for a sneak peek of the next chapter. I have some fun ideas for the teaser that I think you're going to like ... xx
