CHAPTER EIGHTY-FIVE

EDWARD'S POV:

As I laid down in the on-call room, I reached into my scrub pocket to pull out my cell phone. It was never far from my grasp these days. Like a scalpel, it was a necessary tool for me to get through my workday. Though the exhaustion was calling for me to spend my few minutes of peace asleep, my conscience wouldn't allow it. There was something far more important right now—not work, not my personal care. I needed my family.

I knew leaving them was going to be difficult, but I never imagined that I would suffer so. I guess the month we had together really spoiled me. Well, it wasn't a month—Bella was asleep for half of that time. But these last two weeks, especially the time we spent together under one roof was everything I never knew I needed.

I was determined not to lose the progress that I had made with Bella. When I told her we could text, I don't think she knew the extent of what she was getting herself into. I texted her constantly. It was really shameless the effort I was putting in. Maybe I was coming off too strong, but I didn't want to be too far away from her thoughts. If she was always responding to me, then I considered my task a success. Speaking of responses, I unlocked my phone to see I had two messages waiting. Before my last consult, I had texted her:

How can you say that Green Day is more punk rock than Blink-182? I question your sanity. —Edward.

I figured music was a safe topic, but Bella was feisty, and was never afraid to give her opinion. As you could see, what started as a calm topic discussing must-haves on our playlists turned quickly into a debate. I was curious to see how she would respond, and immediately pulled up her reply.

My sanity? Sir, not only has Green Day helped resurrect punk rock back in the '90s, they could be credited for helping to mainstream the genre. How many number ones do they have? Can Blink claim the same? —Bella

I wondered what article she pulled that one from. Her answer seemed too rehearsed. Chuckling, I quickly opened the next text, but was disappointed to see it wasn't from Bella, but Jasper instead.

Stop brushing me off. Drinks tonight. You promised when you lured my family away from me.—Jasper.

Going out drinking was the last thing I wanted to do, but he was right. I did promise that we could commiserate together. With a sigh, I sent him a response.

I'd rather stay in and drink than hit a bar. Is that reasonable for you? What time? –Edward.

While I waited to hear back from him, I fired another text Bella's way.

Blink had commercial success in mainstreaming the genre as well, or do you deny that? Instead of picking which band is superior, how about we focus on our favorite tracks from the two bands? Let's say three from each. What are your must-hears? –Edward.

With a sigh, I laid back down in the cot, and closed my eyes, hoping to get maybe a twenty-minute nap in before I was paged. Though I was anxious to get a reply back, my exhaustion pulled me away from the world, and I gave into sleep.

I don't recall how long I had my eyes closed before I was being paged, both over the intercom, and the buzzer in my pocket. Glancing down at my phone, I saw I was rewarded seventeen minutes of solitude. At least it was double-digits, though certainly not enough. I also saw that I had three messages, but there was no time. I would have to see what my feisty girl said after I took care of this emergency.

It was a long three hours later before I got a moment to breathe. As I made my way down to the cafeteria, I pulled out my phone to look over my messages.

Jasper was first. He was pleased that I gave in so easily, and said that he'd swing by my place after work. I had to mentally tabulate if I even had alcohol since I hadn't been there for a while, but figured I had enough for the two of us. We might have to resort more to hard liquor than beer, but I didn't think Jasper would complain. Regardless, I told him if he was looking for beer, he would have to B.Y.O.B.

Moving on to the messages I wanted to see, I was pleased the other two were from Bella.

You expect me to narrow it down to three each? That's like asking a parent to pick their favorite child; it's unheard of. But I will try. For Blink, I can't do without "Carousel", "I Miss You", "Dammit", "Don't Leave Me", and "Waggy". I know that's more than 3, but those are my must-hears. Now for Green Day… -Bella

I opened her next message to see what her songs from them were.

Green Day is even harder, which is what started this silly row to begin with. I certainly can't limit it to three. Maybe not even five. Bear with me. "Holiday", "Longview", "American Idiot", "Boulevard of Broken Dreams", 'Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)", obviously. Oh and "Basket Case". And "When I Come Around". I better stop there, or I won't be able to stop. –Bella

Definitely got more than I asked for there, but I wasn't complaining. I don't think she even realized how much she was opening up to me. And she was doing it willingly! Looking over the list of songs, I was again amazed to see how many favorites we shared. Could this girl be any more perfect for me? With a smile, I clicked on new message, and sent her my reply.

Not bad choices—all appear in my music library as well. Though I will admit I have more Blink songs than Green Day songs, but maybe that just means you need to educate me? –Edward.

In the cafeteria, I bought myself lunch. Deciding I had a few minutes to spare, I decided to Facetime with Tony now since I wasn't sure if I could later since I had plans with Jasper. It barely rang twice, before the call was connected.

"Hey Daddy," Tony squealed, the grin on his face huge.

"Hey buddy. Just eating some lunch here. What are you doing today?"

"Me and Sophia are playing in my room. Wanna say hi to Sophia?"

I heard "hi Uncle Edward" come from off screen. Tony then turned the phone so I could see my niece sitting on the floor surrounded by stuffed animals.

"Hello Sophia. Are you two having fun?" I asked. They certainly made a mess. Hopefully they remember to clean up after themselves.

"We're playing family. We are pairing all the animals up. Then they can get married and have babies and live happily ever after," Sophia exclaimed. I chanced a look at Tony to see he was less enthused about the game.

"Sophia said that if we play this first, then she will play Cowboys and Indians with me. Mommy said its important to be nice and take turns so that is what I'm doing," Tony explained, with a shrug.

I nodded to show that I heard what he said, then added, "That is a good lesson your mother taught you. It's important to take turns."

"It's not a bad game. It's just that my family isn't like all the stuffed animal families. Sophia says that Mommies and Daddies all live together in the same house. But mine don't, so it's not that much fun to me."

My heart clenched to hear Tony acknowledge this. Not liking the frown on his face, I tried to explain, "Families are all different buddy. While most tend to live together, some do not. There's no right or wrong way of how to be a family. And Sophia's game is just pretend. When you pretend, you can make anything you want come true. I'm sure she'll let there be a stuffed animal family just like our situation if you ask her."

Tony sighed. It seems my words didn't reassure him as much as I would have liked. "I guess. I just want to get to the chasing game," was all I got back in reply.

"Hang in there, buddy. It'll be your turn soon."

"What are you eating for lunch?" he asked. I doubt he really cared, but I think he just liked talking with me about anything.

"I got a hamburger today. What did you eat?"

"We had chicken nuggets and waffle-y fries?"

"You mean waffle fries?" I asked

"That's what I said. Waffle-y fries. They got holes in them and when you dip them in the ketchup, it oozes up through the holes and makes a mess."

I chuckled at his description. "They sound like fun. I wish I had waffle-y fries too. But I got a boring salad instead."

"Fries are better than salad, but salads help you grow up big and strong 'cuz they got green things in them, so that's a good choice too."

"That they do. Vegetables and milk are very important for growing boys," the doctor in me couldn't help but explain.

"And girls," I heard Sophia pipe in.

"And girls too. Of course. Well, I'll let you two get back to your game. I will try to call later, but I might be busy with Uncle Jasper. It might just be a quick call."

"You're going to see my daddy? Oh, I miss him so much," Sophia said.

"He misses you too. I'll make sure to tell him you guys say hi later."

"Thank you Uncle Edward/Daddy" they said in unison.

I ended the call, and went back to my now cold lunch. But I'd take a cold lunch if it meant I got to spend the time with those who matter. My phone beeped, reminding me that I got a message while I was using it before. I smiled when I saw it was Bella again.

"Me educate you? You've always been far superior in musical knowledge. But I see that knowledge isn't a synonym for taste, so if I can correct your library, I'll see what I can do. –Bella

My phone beeped again with another incoming message.

Should I even venture to question your stance on Prince or MJ?" -Bella

How am I supposed to be productive at work when I have these messages to look forward to? With a shake of my head, I quickly launched into why Michael Jackson is clearly the winner. And the bantering continued for the rest of the day.


It seemed like forever, but I finally made it through my shift. The text messages thankfully were my saving grace. I feel like my bedside manner might have been a bit lacking as I was trying to get out of the rooms as quickly as possible, but I still did my best job, and nobody complained. I'm sure I will be more focused when we're all back in one state again. And one house, I thought, though that was wishful thinking. Anytime I tried to bring up housing arrangements for when they come to Chicago, Bella is quick to change the subject. Not sure what that was all about, but I figured if anyone could get to the bottom of things, it would be my sister.

Speaking of sister, I could hear her voice the closer I got to my apartment. Confused, I opened the door, and looked around. I saw Jasper sitting on the couch, phone in hand. He must be talking to her over speakerphone. My hopes were dashed. For a minute there, I thought that she, and possibly they, were here. But then I remembered that they couldn't fly until Bella saw her doctor later this week. God, I hope that appointment goes smoothly.

"Ally, I've got to go now. Your brother just walked in the door," Jasper said, trying to cut off his wife's ramblings.

"Edward! My long-lost brother? The one who doesn't know how to use a phone? But wait, that's not true. He knows how to use his phone just fine—just not to talk to me. I've been replaced Jazzy." I chuckled at the nickname, while Jasper just rolled his eyes.

"I've been busy Alice. I'm sorry if I don't have time to lallygag with you," I answered back, as I settled in at home.

"Oh, but you have time to text Bella all day. Do you even have time to work?" she jested. Jasper looked intrigued to hear this little tidbit.

"I don't text her all day. Why do you ask? Has she said anything?" I answered, hoping maybe my sister had some inner knowledge on the situation.

"Don't even think about it Edward. I am trying to rebuild my friendship with Bella, and I will not be divulging what she tells me in confidence."

"So that means that there have been things shared in confidence then? At least that's something," I mused.

"I…I didn't say that. Stop putting words in my mouth," Alice whined. I loved riling her up.

"Alice, I'll let you go. Edward and I are going to decompress and chat. I'll talk to you tomorrow baby. Love you," Jasper said, before ending the call. He gave me a long look. I noticed the corner of his mouth rising into a sly smile. "You've been texting Bella, huh? How cute."

I rolled my eyes at him, before heading to the bar in the corner to pour myself a drink. It sounds like I was going to need one if this was going to be an interrogation. "I got used to talking with her in the mornings, and relearning things about her. I didn't want to lose that now that I'm gone, so I've simply kept it up," I explained, hoping that would be enough.

"That's it?" Jasper prodded. Damn therapist—why does he have to read people so well.

"What do you want me to say Jasper? Of course, it's more than that. I want to stay relevant in my absence. Can you understand that?"

"I can. I'm not judging you man. I'm just pleased to hear you're doing something. I was worried you two were going to move at a snail's pace," he offered.

"She…I don't think she's as receptive to the idea as I am. But Jasper, I want this. Her, him, them. I want it all. I don't want to scare her off, but I don't want to give her enough time to doubt this—doubt us. There's so much potential if only she allowed for it to happen." I grabbed my drink, and headed to the sofa. After my long day at work, my bones appreciated sitting back and relaxing. If only my mind was on the same wavelength.

Jasper waited into I got comfortable, before continuing. "She's cautious. She has to be. She hasn't been dealt the easiest cards, but she's made it work. Tony is her life; he will always come first, even before her own happiness. Right now, she's looking at you and the benefits of you being in Tony's life. She isn't looking at the benefits to her own life quite yet. We just need to get her to see that they don't have to be one or the other. She can have both."

"How though? Has Alice said anything?" I asked. I felt a little like we were gossiping women here, but I wasn't ashamed to use any advantage I had in this case.

"Her relationship with Bella is still tentative. She's working on getting that back and because of that, isn't going to pry too much. She hasn't even addressed all the texting yet. It's killing her to bite her tongue here, but she is so hell bent on getting her best friend back, she doesn't want to scare Bella away."

"Yea, her and me both," I grumbled, taking sip of my whiskey. I noticed Jasper was nursing a beer, so he must have picked up a case before coming over like I suggested. This might be a longer night than I anticipated.

"You and I both know that Alice won't be able to help herself. She's too curious to leave the matter alone entirely. Just let her get closer to Bella before the hounds descend."

I put my head in my hands, and let out a long sigh. "I know man. I just, I've already wasted so much time. I don't want to wait any longer. I want her to know my intentions. I want to court her. I want to win her heart. I want to be a family together, whether that be here or there. I want it all. I just don't know how to go about it."

"I think Bella is going to be skittish regardless of how you approach this. Didn't you say in the hospital she mentioned something about grand gestures? She's always been a romantic. I think you just need to show her how serious you are. It might scare her at first, but it would also show her how serious you are. Regardless of what you do, you need to get her to understand that no matter what happens between the two of you, you will forever be in Tony's life. If you eliminate that fear that if things go sour, you'll run, then maybe she might be more open to your advances."

"Should I wait for them to get to Chicago, or should I start now? Should I send her flowers? Let her know she's on my mind?" I asked. Its been years since I've dated—I was so out of practice, I wasn't even sure what was expected of me anymore.

"I don't think that would be a good idea. Bella's never been good with gifts. Sending her stuff might rub her the wrong way. It might come off as her love can be bought or something. I think you just keep up with the texting for now. It will enable you two to get closer, so that when they do arrive here, maybe there won't be any awkwardness, and you guys can move forward."

"It just doesn't seem like enough. I need her to see my intentions," I countered.

"Well, I'm not saying you can't move forward. You've gotta flirt. Between all the getting to know you things, throw in a comment or two that will get her blushing. That will show her that she's always on your mind. It let's her know what the end goal is."

"I haven't had to flirt in god knows how long. I'm going to suck at this." I said, throwing my head back onto the back of the couch. I was being a tad bit dramatic, but I really couldn't afford to mess this up.

"Just be glad you admitted that to me, and not Emmett. He would never let the fact you have no game go. And Edward, you do know how to flirt—you're just out of practice. Think about your past relationship with Bella. Did you ever have to question how to go about things before? No, you let your heart guide you. Half the time, you made me and Emmett look like shmucks with how much you went all out for anniversaries, and 'just because I love you' things. You just need to find that Edward again."

"But I want to spoil her too. I don't think she's had anyone take care of her since she's had Tony. And I think that a lot of that is my fault. I hurt her beyond belief and as a consequence, she keeps people at a distance now. That isn't right. She deserves the world."

"I don't know if that is true. She seems to have had no problem with having Angela in her life. And Jacob, before he turned out to be a major douche. If you mean keeping her distance romantically, I can't say that I know—it's not like I've had much of a chance to catch up with her. But I believe you're probably right."

"I don't want to be right, but on the other hand, I'm thrilled that that means she hasn't been with anyone either. Does that make me a horrible person?" I questioned.

"No Edward. I wouldn't go around telling others that, but you're entitled to be happy that neither of you moved on. That alone screams that this relationship is meant to be. But she will be gun shy. There may be times when she pulls back. You just need to read the cues she gives off. And I know I give this advice for most situations, but communication is key here."

"I know. That's why I'm trying to talk things out as they happen, but that's harder when there's physical distance between us."

"Well, hopefully that won't be for much longer. She goes to the doctor this week, and if all goes according to plan, both of our families will be here next week."

"I hope so—I'm so ready to get our lives started. I would hate to have to keep this going via different states. Not that I'm not ready to put in the work and do the traveling. It's just things would be so much easier if we were geographically closer."

"Have you two worked out the plan for when they get here?" he asked, which was no surprise. Jasper always had a knack for reading the situation, and pinpointing the topics that were harder to talk about.

"Not really. I think we didn't want to jinx anything by planning things out, although I do get the sense that Bella is hesitant about it. Especially when I mention staying with me."

"I think you need to be prepared for her to reject that offer Edward. She probably isn't sure how to do so without upsetting you."

"Reject it? Why?" I asked, perplexed Jasper would think this was the case.

"Her coming here is a big deal. And she wasn't thrilled about you staying over your last two weeks in Washington regardless of the fact that it was more of a necessity thing. Things are too new for you guys to be playing happy family like that. I know that is what you want, but if you really want to ease Bella into things, you need to go at her speed. She might feel more comfortable staying with Alice and I, or Esme and Carlisle in the beginning. It's not meant to make more work for you." I must have been pouting, because Jasper quickly continued on. "I don't mean to be the bearer of bad news. And I might be talking out of my ass for all I know. I'm just venturing that if she is hesitant to talk room and board, that that might be the reason why."

"It sounds reasonable, but it doesn't mean I have to like it," I sulked.

"I know man. But think about the benefits too. Do you think Bella will be okay with starting a relationship with you while also living with you? That gives her no time away to think about the situation, or even miss you. It might play to your advantage. And it allows you to woo her. Pick her up at her door, take her out, drop her off, etc. You'd really be dating then," Jasper offered, trying to make the situation sound more appealing.

"I guess. Should I bring this up with her? Or wait until we have a more definitive answer/timeframe?"

"It sounds like she is hesitant to talk about it, so I'd play off of her cues. Let her bring it up. She can't keep quiet much longer. She should be here next week, so plans are going to have to be made."

"Thanks Jasper. I really appreciate your input here. I feel like I should be charging you for this session," I joked, trying to lighten the subject matter.

"Consider this a freebee. I needed the distraction too. No matter that I'm more experienced in being away from my family, it really doesn't get any easier."

"I sincerely hope that we don't have to be separated at all. I told you about my bringing up relocation with her. She doesn't think it's fair that I do all the heavy lifting, which is partially why they're coming to Chicago now. Can we make a life here, or am I transferring to Washington? Only time will tell. All I know is that these last few days have sucked. I know I can't continue this way indefinitely."

"So, we need to make her fall in love with the city and with you then, huh? That's kind of a tall order," Jasper jested.

"I'm hoping the falling in love with me part won't be as hard—if she's anything like me, those feelings never really left. But I will do whatever is easier for her. While it would be great to stay here with the extended family and all, they are my priorities now. I go where they go."

"That's completely understandable man. I just am biased and hope that we all will be reunited in one state once again. I'm sure Esme and Carlisle are hoping for that option as well."

"Dad's been more quiet on the matter, but Mom has certainly been dropping hints about it. But she knows that while I appreciate her opinion, hers isn't the deciding point."

"Again, only time will tell. Don't worry about that now. Just focus on what you're going to do once they get here. Think happy thoughts."

"Think happy thoughts? That sounds a little Disney to me. Your Dad-card is showing," I mocked him.

"The fact that you recognized it as a Disney thing is just as bad, my friend. Bonus points if you can pinpoint which one."

"I don't think I've had enough of a reintroduction to the movies to be able to name it. Sorry. But I'm sure you can school me."

"Peter Pan. With the fairy dust, they had to think happy thoughts so that they could fly to Neverland," he explained straight-faced. I couldn't hold my laughter in.

"Did you ever think you'd see the day that I would be sitting here debating Disney movies over alcohol? Man, I have come a long way," I mused, taking another sip of my drink.

"Yes, you have. And Bella sees it too. Just keep evolving, and everything is going to work out. I just know it."

"You just know it? You claiming to be able to predict the future like Alice now?" I asked, my eyebrow raised in disbelief.

"No, I'm way too logical of a person to believe in visions, but her optimism has rubbed off on me. I want this to work, and therefore, it just has to. It'll be better for everyone involved."

"From your lips to God's ears," I said, before finishing off my drink. My phone chirped, alerting me to an incoming text. A smile instantly came to my face, and I immediately opened the message.

Tony's heading to bed now. Quick call? Or too drunk with Jasper? Should we leave you boys alone? –Bella

I laughed out loud at that. I told her about my evening plans, but I'm sure Alice alluded to a more crazy night than was truth.

Not drunk. Barely had one drink. I'll call now—thanks for the heads up. –Edward

"If Bella looks as sappy as you do when she gets a text message, I think we certainly have nothing to worry about for the future," Jasper said.

"Shut up," I said, while dialing the phone. "The kids are going to bed. You gonna say goodnight to Sophia?"

"Nah, I did that earlier. But I'll leave you to your call. I need a refill anyways," he said, getting up from the couch.

"Grab one for me too," I called after him, before connecting with Tony. We talked for a few minutes. He told me about playing the Cowboy, and how the stuffed animals became their prisoners for breaking the law. Once all the bad guys were locked up, they proceeded to the chase part of the game. I was glad to hear he got to play the game he wanted. After a few more exchanges, I told him goodnight, and promised to speak with him tomorrow. He got a little sad, but we pulled up the calendar app, and counted together how many days left until we would see each other again. Thankfully that number was dwindling. The thought that we would see each other soon cheered him up, which in turn lifted my mood. My mind just kept chanting the word soon. Soon they'll be here. Soon I can pursue Bella. Soon they will be mine. Soon.


The rest of the week passed by much like the same. Bella and I filled the days with mindless texts, but I did take Jasper's advice, and threw in a little flirtier context. Nothing too outlandish—just enough for her to know she was on my mind. I was trying to be more forward, without being too forward. For example, this morning, I sent:

Confession: every single time I get a text alert, I hope it's from you. –Edward.

Last night, I mentioned that I was watching a movie and the main character looked a lot like her, except obviously not nearly as beautiful. She didn't really acknowledge those comments, but I knew I was laying the groundwork for what was to come. I would step up my game more when they got here, which thankfully will be soon. Yesterday I had received the best news; the Doctor gave her the okay to fly. I was so pleased with the results, I let out a whoop, startling the nurses and other employees that were unfortunately near me when I had read the text. After apologizing for disrupting them, I congratulated Bella on the news. Now I only had to make it through a couple more days alone.

I was sitting in my office, charting and making notes when my phone chirped with the ever-familiar text alert. I opened the message and saw,

Tony is adamant that he talks to you. Got a free second? Otherwise, I'll persuade him you'll speak to him later. –Bella.

Glancing at the clock, I saw that I should have the next hour undisturbed, so I said that it wasn't a problem, and waited for the call to come in.

I accepted the Facetime and saw Tony sitting at a table alone.

"What's up Tony? Mom said that you needed to talk to me?" I asked, when he didn't start the conversation.

"I was wondering if you were free for lunch." Tony asked, a smile on his face.

"You want to eat together? Uh, sure, I think I can manage that. I have to go down to the cafeteria to buy my lunch first though, but I'll bring it back up to my office so we can talk and eat in private. How does that sound?" I said, already standing up and grabbing my keys and wallet to head out of my office. "Is your mom making you your lunch now?"

"No Mommy isn't making lunch. She's going to buy lunch."

"Oh, you guys are out to lunch? That's exciting. Are you sure you want to eat with me then buddy? Sounds like you should be enjoying your trip out of the house," I ventured. I stopped by the nurses' station to tell them that I was stepping out to eat, but to page me if I was needed. She had a smile on her face when she saw that I was talking with my son, and assured me that they were fine without me, and to enjoy myself. Hopefully she didn't just jinx things, and we won't get a crisis that requires me to forgo lunch and my time with Tony.

"No, I want to eat with you. I'll wait." He said. I wasn't sure why he was so set on this meal happening, but I wasn't going to shoot a gift horse in the mouth.

"Okay, I'm making my way downstairs now. What are you going to get at the restaurant? Where is Mom and Alice and them?" I asked, when I realized he still was sitting at a table by himself.

"They're getting the food now. I asked for a hamburger like you had the other day. I want to try it 'cause you ate it."

"Maybe I'll get a hamburger too, and we can be twins," I offered, making my way to the cafeteria. I had just got to the door, when I realized that I recognized the table Tony was sitting at. That's the same table that we had in the cafeteria. Could it be? I thought, but quickly dismissed that idea. They must have been eating at their hospital following another one of Bella's appointments. I opened the door, and let myself in, heading to the line to purchase my food.

I noticed Tony's expression had changed, a huge smile gracing his face, and before I could question it, I heard him say, "I see him. I see him mom. Can I?" I quickly realized he wasn't talking to me.

"Go. NO running." I heard come from my beloved's mouth. I was confused. Go? Go where? And who's him? The jealousy was flaring up inside of me.

"Dad! Dad!" I heard, not from the phone, but from behind me. I abruptly turned, and there, in the flesh, was Tony. I looked beyond him, and at that familiar table was Bella. They were here. They really were here. But how?

I grasped Tony into a hug, and held him close to me. He was babbling away, but I could only focus on him being here, in Chicago, in my arms. I would figure out what he said later. For now, I was just pleased that my heart felt complete, and I hoped it would stay that way.