Edward's leaning against the wall in the hallway when I finally exit the bathroom. Ankles crossed, arms crossed over his chest, beer dangling from his fingertips. I notice for the first time, how long his hair is, probably because I haven't gripped it for a while.

"You disappeared," he states calmly.

"Yeah … I did announce my departure but you were … busy." The venom woven within my words doesn't escape him. He narrows his eyes.

I walk without waiting for him, knowing I'm being childish, but too damn confused with this limbo we're in now.

"You're jealous," he states. I can hear his smirk.

I shrug, not lying. "Doesn't matter."

"Yes it does."

I stop at the stairs, looking down, taking a deep breath and then turning towards him.

"We're taking things slow, we're doing things right, remember? Did you let her do that, get so close, to get a rise out of me?" I narrow my eyes, waiting.

"Maybe." He seems to get my point. "Shit." He sighs. "Sorry."

"You can't keep forcing this, Edward. Forcing me."

He nods.

Reaching up, my fingers brush his jaw before I realise what I'm doing. Letting my arm drop to my side, he watches it fall.

"I really want to kiss you," he whispers, making me smile.

"I really want you to."

"But?"

Groaning, I turn and make my way down the staircase. "Stop it."

He laughs, following me.

A/N

Thanks for reading!