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.
Up next will be Edward and will probably be the last real chapter before the epilogue. We'll be leading up to Bella's birthday and the triumphant return of Edward to MAC. This will span several months, from late August to, well … you'll see.
Chapter Thirty-Four
Edward
"What are you doing?" Katie asked. Since I was still off for a couple more weeks, I'd volunteered to pick up Katie at school. She had taken off her uniform and was helping me make dinner. Or rather, I'd started dinner and I was trying to find a birthday present for Bella. I knew that last year, Bella ignored her birthday. This year, I wanted to celebrate her birth. "Edward?"
"Sorry, Little One," I chuckled, blinking up at her. "I'm trying to find a birthday present for Bella. Her birthday is coming up." Katie frowned, tears welling in her blue eyes. "What is it, Katie?"
"Last year, I forgot Bella's birthday. We had just moved here and were sad because of Mommy and Daddy," she muttered. "She gave me a special day for my birthday and I ignored her. She must hate me."
"Katie, Bella does not hate you," I said, picking her up and putting on the counter. "Katie, losing your parents, it changes you. Bella was more focused on making sure that you were happy, healthy. She didn't really care about her birthday because her thoughts were on you."
"But, everyone deserves a special day," Katie muttered, gripping my shirt. "Bella didn't. Not last year. I want to make it up to her."
"You do, Little One, with each smile and each moment that you're happy," I said, wiping her tears away. "She adores you and would do anything for you."
"I want to do anything for her," Katie replied, sliding her arms around my neck. I picked her up, carrying her to the living room and sitting down. I gently ran my hand up and down her back as she cried. She must have dozed off because her cries quieted. I looked down at her. Her face was flushed and there were tear stains on her cheeks. I kissed her forehead, holding her in my arms.
As Katie snoozed, I let my mind wander. I wanted this. I wanted this forever. I wanted to come home with my girls, sharing my future with them. I'd been denied a happily ever after and this was my dream. I knew I wanted to marry Bella. However, we were not ready for that step. We were still healing from what happened on my birthday.
Which was officially cancelled.
From here on out, my birthday would be on April 17th. June 20th held too many negative memories, from the death of my birth parents to the catastrophe that happened a few months ago.
"Forever," I whispered, smiling as I realized what I could get Bella for her birthday. I picked up Katie, tucking a blanket around her on the couch before I went back to my computer. I typed in what I was looking for, grinning widely when I reserved it at jeweler. "Forever may not be long enough, but it'll have to do." Rubbing my hands, I made plans for Bella's birthday. It would be a two-pronged approach. One part will include Katie and the other will be just Bella and me.
I missed her.
I missed the intimacy, the physical intimacy, we'd had prior to the car accident.
I was feeling no pain when I did daily activities. My strength was returning, along with my stamina. I was also cleared for sexual activities. At least, that's what the doctor said. Granted, it couldn't be marathon love-making sessions like we'd had in February, but we could try. Even if I couldn't make love to her in the traditional sense, I would love to be able to show her how much loved her.
That's if Bella wasn't disgusted by the new scars I had on my body. I had a smaller scar in between a couple of my ribs from where I had the chest tube. My left hip had an eight-inch long scar from where I had the joint replaced. I also had another scar along my left thigh. At least, the scars were done surgically and not ragged like the rest of the damage to my skin.
Katie woke up about fifteen minutes before Bella came home from work. I filled her in on my plan for Bella's birthday and Katie was excited at my plans. She wanted to spend the entire day with Bella, but she understood why I wanted to spend part of Bella's birthday with her. Katie and I did make a date for us to go shopping for Katie's present for Bella. We were finalizing details when Bella walked in the front door.
"HI, Bella," Katie said, sliding her arms around Bella's waist.
"Hey, Kit Kat," Bella smiled, kissing her forehead. "Did you have a good day at school?"
"Yeah. I get to bring in something on Friday for show and tell," she said.
"What do you want to bring in?" I asked, mixing the salad.
"Sammy!" Katie chirped. "Wouldn't that be cool?"
"Um, Kit Kat, you can't really bring a dog to school," Bella snorted, kicking off her heels. "What about a picture of Sammy?"
"What about a picture of all of us?" Katie suggested. "You guys are my family. I love my family and I want to share with everyone that." A frown ghosted over her face. "I can show a picture of us and of Mommy and Daddy. I'm lucky. I have two sets of awesome parents."
Bella's eyes widened. "What did you say?"
"Bella, I know that you are my sister, but you love me like Mommy did. Edward loves me like Daddy," Katie said, her voice tiny. "Right?"
"Katie, I adore you," Bella whispered, enfolding her sister into her arms. "I'll do everything to make you happy, sweet girl." Katie nodded, wrapping her arms around Bella's neck.
"Why don't you look for that picture?" I suggested. "I'll get dinner ready."
Bella looked up at me, with tears streaming down her cheeks. She gave me a watery smile and picked up Katie, carrying her upstairs. I finished making dinner, putting it on the dining room table. Bella and Katie came down, holding two picture frames. One was a photo from the Memorial Day picnic. It was of Bella, Katie and me, crouched around Sam. It was the photo that was my wallpaper on my phone. The other photo was of Katie, Bella, Renee and Phil.
"What's for dinner? It smells delicious," Bella asked quietly. I helped her into her seat, doing the same for Katie.
"Chicken fajitas," I replied. "with Spanish rice, pico de gallo and homemade guac. What do you want to drink?"
"You know, we're getting spoiled with these homemade meals," Bella quipped. "I'll have whatever you're having."
"So, a Modelo," I snickered. "Lime?"
"Yes, please," Bella smiled.
"What about you, Little One?" I asked.
"Apple juice, Edward," Katie said, reaching for a tortilla. Bella helped Katie make her plate while I got our beverages.
I returned with two bottles of beer and a sippy cup filled with apple juice. Dinner was delicious and the heaviness from when Bella walked in had dissipated. Over dinner, Katie talked about school and everything that she'd learned today. When she was done, Bella talked about her afternoon. Apparently, the woman who had stolen a shit-ton of money from Bella was going to jail for a long time. Additionally, Bella shared some news about the Clio Awards. The Clio Awards she'd won … and the ceremony that she missed because what had happened between us.
I plastered on a smile, overjoyed that Bella had won these prestigious awards. Inwardly, I was disgusted at myself because we'd made plans to attend the ceremony together. That didn't happen because she was in Forks and my fears had taken hold of my life.
Once dinner was over, Bella and I put the food away and did the dishes. Katie was playing in the tiny backyard with Sam with some music playing. "Edward, I know you well enough. Something's bothering you," Bella said, sliding onto the kitchen counter and sipping her beer. "Talk to me, Grinch."
"You missed the ceremony," I frowned, scrubbing the pan I had with renewed fervor. She hopped down and wriggled between me and the sink. The pan was placed in the soapy water, along with the washcloth. She gently pushed me back, caging me between her warm body and the kitchen island. Normally, I'd be panicked, but I knew Bella would never hurt me. She was too good. Her hands found my face, guiding me to look at her. "Bella …"
"Edward, don't blame yourself. Hell, if I'd been there, I would have been a nervous mess," she giggled, rubbing her thumbs along my cheeks. "Do not blame yourself. Please, don't. I'm okay with missing the ceremony. I was honestly shocked that I'd won, but grateful that I didn't have to sit through a ceremony or hobnob with other nominees. Alice told me all about it and she said it was intense."
"You're not mad?" I whispered, sliding my arms around her waist to rest just above her ass.
"Pssh, nope. To make it up to me, you get to escort me next year, if I'm nominated," she crooned, brushing her lips along my jaw. I captured her mouth with mine and kissed her tenderly. Our mouths moved in concert until her tongue slid into my mouth. I groaned, deepening the kiss and holding her against my body, needing to feel her body conform to mine. I could feel my cock harden and I wanted her.
So. Fucking. Badly.
"Ewwww!" Katie whined.
There's a douse of cold water.
"Surely you saw Mom and Dad kissing," Bella quipped, glowering at her sister but she stayed in my arms. Probably to hide the growing erection pressing into her stomach.
"Never like that," Katie giggled.
"Yeah, well … it's almost time for bed," Bella snorted, pushing away. "Come on, Kit Kat. Bath, story and bed."
"Can Sammy stay?" Katie asked me.
"I think something can be arranged," I replied, moving to finish the dishes and adjust my hardness. Katie and Bella went upstairs while I made quick work of the dishes, putting the pots and pans away after I'd loaded up the dishwasher. Once I was finished, Bella called down to me. I walked up the stairs, finding Bella and Katie in Katie's bedroom. "What's up?"
"Can you read to me tonight?" Katie asked, holding up her book.
"Sure, Little One," I smiled, laying down on her bed and taking the book from Bella. My girl kissed my temple, whispering that she was going to shower while I read with Katie. I opened the book, The Little Princess. I read a couple of pages, before closing the book. "Katie?"
"Yeah, Edward," she answered, moving closer to me.
"You know I love you and your sister very much, right?" I asked.
"Just like we love you, Edward," she said, blinking up at me.
"Katie, I want to spend the rest of my life loving you guys. This may sound weird, but I want to ask your permission so I can do something for Bella," I whispered, blinking to the door. "For you, too. I want to marry Bella."
"Really?" Katie squealed.
"Little One, it's super important that you keep this between us," I said as she clambered into my lap. Her feet dug into my ribs and I bit back a grimace. "Do you promise?"
"I pinky promise," she said, holding up her right hand with her pinky extended.
"Is this more important than a regular promise?" I asked, looping my pinky with hers.
"It's the most secretive promise," she whispered. "When are you going to do it? For her birthday?"
"Probably not," I answered. "But, I wanted to get your blessing and ask you to help me pick out a ring for her."
"You got it, Edward," Katie breathed. She hugged me, kissing me on the cheek. "I love you so much."
"I love you, too, Little One," I smiled. "Thank you for your blessing. Now, you've got to get some sleep. You have school tomorrow."
"Kay," Katie yawned, sliding back under covers.
I tucked her in and Sam hopped into the bed, his tail thumped on the mattress. I snickered, shutting off the lights and walking to Bella's bedroom. She was sitting on her bed, brushing out her wet hair, wearing one of my t-shirts. "You are sin personified," I quipped, laying down next to her and dragging her into my arms.
"Are you going to spend the night with me?" she asked, nipping at my lips.
"I like being here with you and Katie," I blushed. "Being at my condo is too quiet, too empty."
"Why don't you just move in?" Bella suggested.
"Are you serious?" I whispered. Bella stared at me, nodding and giving me a beautiful grin. "When?"
"You're already here most days. I miss you when you're gone and I know that when you return to work, things will … change. I want to wake up with you. I want the first thing I see in the morning and the last thing when I go to bed," she breathed. "The sooner the better."
"Your wish is my command," I replied, kissing her gently and smiling against her mouth. "I love you, Bella."
"I love you so much, Edward," she whispered and then giggled. "We're going to be roommates."
"More than that, angel," I snickered. "So much more."
We celebrated our decision to move in together by making out for hours in her bedroom. Our bedroom. The next morning, I woke up with Bella in my arms and my heart feeling full. After making breakfast for my girls, I drove Bella and Katie to school, followed by the office. Then, I went to my condo, packing up my clothes and several personal effects. I'd eventually sell my place, but for now, I just wanted to be with my girls.
My girls.
The lights of my life … the two most important people who brought me out of the darkness and into the light.
xx FFADS xx
The day of Bella's birthday, I made arrangements for Katie and Bella to spend the morning and afternoon together. They were being chauffeured by Jeremy and he catered to their every whim. Katie managed to convince Bella to go to Fringe for a spa day. Afterward, they were going to have a late lunch with Alice and Rose before my part of her birthday would come into play.
I had planned on taking Bella out for a date, but after thinking it over, I decided that a romantic dinner at home would be what we needed. My dad and I were hanging twinkle lights along the living room. In the kitchen, I had the ingredients for Bella's favorite meal.
"When are you going to make an honest woman of Bella?" Carlisle asked as he tossed a pillow onto the ground.
"Dad," I chuckled, putting various candles around the room. "We're still working through our issues from June. We're seeing our therapists, both on our own and as a couple. I'm finally closing the chapter on my child abuse and moving on with my life. I'm not going to let them control me anymore. Bella is able to grieve the loss of her parents. She never got a chance to do so because she was caring for Katie." I sat down on the overstuffed chair, looking at him. He arched a brow. "I hope to ask her before the end of the year. I love her, Dad. She's my best friend and I can't imagine not being with her."
"That's all I ask," Carlisle laughed. "Do we have enough lights? This place is lit up like a Christmas tree."
"Just wait until you actually see it lit up for Christmas," I snickered. "Thanks for your help with this."
"I wouldn't want you to break the other hip," he teased.
"I'm tougher than I look, Dad. It took a car and a semi to break this one," I retorted. Looking up at my dad, I saw his face blanch. "Dad?"
He sat down in front of me, taking my hands. "Edward, when Bella called your mother … we thought the worst. No parent should ever have to bury their child. When we got to Port Angeles, our prayers were answered. You were alive. A bit battered, but alive. In my mind, it went to a dark place …"
"You thought that I tried to hurt myself," I muttered.
"To be honest, yes," he said, looking at me. His blue eyes were brimmed with tears. "You were so shattered at what happened on your birthday. In my mind, I knew that Bella would never betray you that way, but … well … I'm not you. Then, you exploded and it all went to hell."
"I didn't do this on purpose. The weather was awful. It was freaking deluge," I snorted humorlessly. "I wasn't sleeping well and I was exhausted, both, physically and emotionally. But, I wasn't trying to hurt myself. Bella had seen me and she wanted to talk. Even if it was … anyway, it doesn't matter. We're together and I think we're in a better place. We're talking more, not holding back our feelings, even if it would hurt the other."
"How often does that happen?" he quipped.
"A couple of times, but we had to watch the volume of our voices because Katie was sleeping," I snorted.
"Speaking of Katie, I'm taking her with me?" Carlisle asked.
"Yep, Bella and I wanted to celebrate her birthday, if you know what I mean," I blushed.
"Ahhh, I get it," he snickered. "Is this the first time you've been intimate since you're accident?"
"For me, yes. I've … I'm not talking about this with you," I laughed anxiously as I sat down on the couch. Sam hopped up, kissing my jaw.
"I think I can connect the dots," Carlisle smirked. "Now, when are you going back to work?"
"I have my final physical therapy appointment next Friday. I'll return to work the week after that," I said. "I've been doing some work remotely, meeting with clients and handling things that I could while I was out. Rose stepped in a big way and there's a promotion in the books for her."
"Do you have that power?"
"It's my company. Of course I do," I answered.
"Wait, when did this happen?" Carlisle laughed. "You own MAC?"
"It happened the week that I found Jacob and Tanya fucking on my desk," I said, shaking my head. "It kind of put a damper on my elation of owning my own company, but I wasn't going to let them ruin the one good thing I had going. Anyway, I want to put Rose as the Chief Operations Officer and move someone new into the HR position. That's on my to-do list for when I return."
"You're restructuring?"
"A bit. I'm still going to be in charge, but Rose will handle the operations aspect. HR will fall under that umbrella. I also want to hire a Chief Financial Officer. Payroll and such is a pain the ass. Shelly and I handle that currently. Shelly more so than me. She's a whiz on Excel," I snickered. "But, this year was incredibly lucrative and we have the income to hire these people, along with executive assistants for each new position."
"What about Bella? She's been taking on a lot more responsibilities, as well," Carlisle said, giving me a smile.
"We're still getting a ton of new requests. We may have to build another team," I shrugged. "If that's the case, I'd love for Bella to be in charge of it. She's got the talent, the patience and the business acumen to handle it. What's holding me back is our relationship. I don't want people to perceive Bella's promotion as a quid pro quo type deal."
"You may wait until you're fully restructured and then let Rose handle it?"
"Bingo … but, that's well into next year," I chuckled. "Right now, I just want to focus on celebrating Bella's birthday and taking that next step forward in our relationship."
"Well, if you need help ring shopping," Carlisle said, standing up and fluffing a few pillows.
"I promised Katie that she could help me," I smiled, remembering how she had many distinct opinions about engagement rings. It had to be big, but not too big. Rose gold was a must and incorporating sapphires was a necessity, as well since Bella loved sapphires. It was her birthstone, after all.
I agreed with everything except the rose gold. I knew for a fact that Bella did not like rose gold. She was partial to white gold, silver or platinum, which was what I was leaning toward.
"Okay, I think we're done in here. Do you need help with dinner?" Carlisle questioned.
"Yeah, that would be great. Come be my sous chef," I said, getting up.
We spent the next hour preparing the meal for Bella and me. I asked her, point black, what should like for her birthday dinner. She wanted something simple, but tasty. She also didn't want some frou-frou meal. After bugging her for an hour, she finally caved and asked for comfort food. Specifically, a favorite meal that her mother had made. It was some variation of baked ziti, but with a bite. It was almost like a chili mixed in the ziti, but minus the beans and stuff. It sounded weird, but when I'd prepared the sauce, it was actually quite good.
I'd put the casserole in the fridge, waiting to put it in the oven once Bella came home.
When dinner was prepared, Bella and Katie returned from their spa day. I'd changed into a pair of dark-wash jeans and a button-down shirt. I noticed that Bella had her hair cut and makeup applied. Katie dragged Bella upstairs, proclaiming that she needed to make her sister perfect for her birthday. Bella rolled her eyes good-naturedly, allowing Katie to push her up the stairs.
Ten minutes later, Katie came downstairs with a tiny backpack. She wrapped her arms around my legs. "Have fun tonight," she said. "I'll miss you, Edward."
I scooped her up, kissing her cheek. "Love you, Little One," I smiled. "Have fun with Nana and Papa."
"I will," she sang. "Love you more, Edward." She hugged me.
I put her down and my dad held out his hand. In his other hand, he held Sam's leash. I gave my dad a hug, which surprised him. I rarely initiated physical affection with my parents. I was more comfortable with Katie and Bella, but it took me twenty years to realize that my parents would never hurt me. "Love you, Dad," I whispered.
"Love you more, son," he smiled, kissing my cheek. Stepping back, he grinned at Katie. "Come on, Princess. Nana and I are going to take you to the movies. There's a new Pixar movie that just came out."
"Yay!" Katie sang, skipping along with my dad. They left the brownstone. I walked to the kitchen, pouring us a glass of wine and pulled out the charcuterie tray from the fridge. I also preheated the oven for the pasta dish. I also lit candles and plugged in the twinkle lights all around the first floor.
"Wow," Bella murmured, tucking her curled hair behind her ears. "This is … you really went all out."
"Just like how you did for Christmas," I said, handing her a glass of wine. "Happy birthday, angel. You look absolutely gorgeous."
"Thank you," she breathed, kissing me tenderly. "You look handsome, too. Really, really handsome."
"Oh, this old thing?" I quipped, giving her a crooked smirk. She giggled as I led her to the living room and helped her onto the couch. I looked at her, blown away at her effortless beauty. My idiocy almost lost her. My fears, my past … I was so grateful she'd given me another a chance.
"Grinchy, you're staring," Bella blushed, sipping her wine.
"Sorry, angel. I'm just taking you all in," I said. "I'm a lucky bastard."
"I'm the lucky one, baby," she murmured.
"I'm going to put dinner in the oven and get us some appetizers," I said, grinning softly at her. I ducked into the kitchen and slid the casserole into oven. I picked up the charcuterie tray. Carrying it into the living room, I sat down next to Bella. I held up my wine glass, "To my best friend and the woman whom I love more than I ever could imagine, I wish you the happiest of birthdays. Here's to the first of many, angel."
"Thank you, Edward," she replied, a warm blush spreading over her creamy skin. "Last year, I was trying to navigate my new job and dealing with my cranky boss."
"Now, a year later, that cranky boss is ready to spoil you," I snickered, clinking my glass with hers.
"Not so cranky anymore," she said, tucking her legs underneath her body.
"Well," I chuckled. "After PT, I'm pretty cranky."
"Understandable," Bella said. "You're rebuilding muscles and strengthening your injury. It isn't going to be sunshine and rainbows."
"That's true," I shrugged. I tucked her to my side. She snuggled against me, draping her arm around my waist. "How was your day at the spa?"
"You spoiled me and Katie," Bella chided gently.
"You didn't get a birthday last year. I had a lot to make up for," I said, brushing my lips over hers. She sighed, gripping my shirt as she tried to get closer to me. "The spa was only the tip of the iceberg, love."
"Edward," Bella grumbled. "You don't need to lavish me in gifts. All I want is this, a quiet night alone. Curling up with you and watching a movie."
"I lavish you with gifts because I want to," I said. "A quiet night alone is a bonus and hopefully, an opportunity. I miss you, angel."
She sipped her wine. Her eyes darkened and a sexy grin spread over her face. "Me, too, Edward. I know that with your injuries and recovery, along with the speed bump in our relationship, things have been … a little one-sided. Not that I'm unappreciative. I've missed you, too. Our relationship was always based on friendship, but our sexual relationship was on fire. At least, prior to the accident and what happened on your birthday."
"Hmmmm, agreed," I purred, nuzzling her neck. "And, we are not acknowledging that day as my birthday. My birthday is my adoption day, April 17th."
"Right," Bella panted as nibbled on her earlobe. I inhaled deeply, relishing in her sweet, intoxicating scent. She melted against me. "Edward, you're driving me crazy."
"That's the plan, angel," I chuckled as my lips moved down her neck. "I want tonight to be about us, reconnecting and celebrating the day of your birth."
"I also want to give something back to you, Edward," she said, trailing her fingers down my cheeks and staring into my eyes. "Tonight is about finding us. I love you, Grinch. You are everything that I never knew I needed in a partner and more. I want you. I want us." She gently pressed her mouth to mine and we were lost to each other until the timer went off in the kitchen. "Saved by the bell."
"Paused by the bell," I corrected, getting up from the pile of cushions. I was a little stiff as I walked to the kitchen, pulling out the casserole. Bella followed me, sliding onto the stool in the kitchen. As I finished putting together dinner, Bella told me about the goings-on at MAC, though I already knew most of the gossip. Riley had resigned after Rose had given him shit about losing a huge account. It was either resign with a severance plan or be fired without any sort of severance or reference. His second in command had taken over the team.
We also talked about my plan to return and the preliminary plans for restructuring MAC leadership team. Bella thought that it was a great idea, offering more leadership opportunities.
Dinner was delicious, but the conversation and the laughter was more enticing than the meal. Being able to spend time with Bella, rekindling the friendship, relationship and intimacy between was a dream come true. "I've been thinking," Bella murmured as I was washing the dishes. Usually, we agreed that whoever cooked wouldn't do dishes, but it was Bella's birthday and I wasn't about to make her do the dishes. So, she just kept me company while I cleaned, perched on the countertop.
"About?" I asked.
"Do you like the brownstone?" she questioned. "It was perfect for me and Katie, but … maybe …?"
"What, angel?"
"Would you consider finding a place that's bigger for us?" Bella shrugged. "I love having you with us. It's amazing. I like coming home to someone. When it was just me and Katie, I hated the emptiness of the house. Now? It feels like home, but it's small."
"You want to buy something with me?" I asked.
"Something bigger. I really like the brownstone aesthetic and I love this neighborhood," Bella explained, finishing her wine.
"I think that we can look at the real estate listings," I replied, drying my hands and stepping between her legs. "Something that fits both of us and leaves us some room to grow, hmmm?"
She nodded, idly playing with my hair. She stared at me, her brown eyes sweeping over my face. "I love you, Edward. You have so much good in you. You're loving, kind and so beautiful," she whispered, tracing her fingers along my cheekbones and down my neck before she slowly began unbuttoning my shirt.
"It sounds like you're describing yourself, angel," I breathed, sliding my hands along her thighs, underneath the skirt of her floral wrap dress. "Before we get too involved in … making love, I want to give you your birthday present."
"This …" she gestured to the empty house and the romantic setting I'd created in the living room, "is more than enough, Edward."
"I'm glad you enjoyed this first part of your birthday," I chuckled, helping her off the counter. Twining my fingers with hers, I led her back into the living room. "Relax for a few moments, angel. I need to get your present."
"Edward …" she giggled.
I kissed her before going upstairs. I pulled out the gift bag I'd hidden in Katie's closet. I went back downstairs, picked up the tiny cake I'd purchased and put a couple of candles on top. Balancing the cake and the gift bag, I sang to Bella. She grinned happily when I put the cake in front of her and sat down on the cushions. "Make a wish, angel."
She closed her eyes for a moment before her smile widened. When she opened her eyes, she blew out the candles. "Thank for making this birthday extra special. I will forever treasure my twenty-ninth birthday," she snickered. "After the roller coaster of a year, this was perfect."
I pulled her into my lap, handing her the gift bag. "Happy birthday, Bella," I whispered.
She pressed her lips to mine, taking the gift bag. She tossed the tissue paper onto the floor and pulled out the ornate box that held her gift. She blinked up to me, arching a brow. I just gave her a smirk, pushing the box in her hands. She opened the box and gasped, "Edward!"
"Do you know what the symbol is?" I asked, running my fingers along the diamond necklace.
"An infinity symbol," she answered.
I took the necklace out of the box, putting it around Bella's neck. It fell just between her collarbones, a bit shorter than the first necklace I'd given her. "I will love you forever. For infinity," I whispered.
"It's beautiful," she breathed, kissing me deeply. "Thank you, Edward."
I threaded my fingers into her hair and eagerly accepted her kisses. She moved so she was straddling my legs as we lost ourselves to the kisses. I was so enamored with Bella's mouth on mine, that I didn't even realize that my button-down was completely unbuttoned and her fingers were gliding down my chest. I gripped her ass, pulling her closer to my body. She moaned against my mouth. "I love you, angel."
"I love you so much," she whispered. "Make love to me, Edward. Make me yours again." She stood up and held out her hand. "In our room."
I took her hand, standing up and kissing her. "I wanted to do this down here, but in retrospect, my battered body would probably appreciate being on a bed. Let's blow out these candles and continue this in our bedroom."
We worked quickly and went upstairs to our bedroom. After I'd moved in, Bella and I went shopping for new bedding. Something less frilly, but represented both of our personalities. The room was also bathed in twinkle lights. Bella had some on the dresser and in the plants. We left them on at night since we were both clumsy as we stumbled to the bathroom.
Bella turned around and pushed my shirt off my body. Her fingers danced along my pale skin as she looked at me. "I've got a lot of work to do to get back to where I was before the accident," I murmured, capturing her hand above my heart.
"You're perfect, just the way you are," she said.
I had to kiss her, crashing my lips against hers. She pushed me to the bed and we fell onto the mattress. I felt a few twinges in my ribs and my leg injuries, but I wasn't about to stop feeling her against me. We moved back onto the pillows as our kisses grew more fervent, needy. I hitched Bella's leg over my hip, sliding my hand along her thigh. I growled when I reached her ass and felt nothing but silky skin. "Bella …"
"One less thing," Bella giggled. "Katie thrust the dress at me and then went to her room. I went from there." I devoured her mouth as explored her soft skin and teasing her swollen folds between her legs. "Fuck … I'm so wet, Edward. I think I ruined the dress. Being near you, feeling you, touching you …"
I found the ties of her dress and quickly opened her dress. "Fuck me," I groaned when I saw her exquisite naked body. "All night?"
She smirked, nodding slowly as she tossed the dress onto the floor. "I'm surprised you didn't notice."
"I just saw you," I said, gently pushing her back onto the pillows. "And I want to explore some more, angel."
"It's my birthday and I want to taste you," she pouted.
"Oh, baby, as much as I want to feel your mouth around my cock, I want to be inside you when I cum," I growled, gliding my hand over her creamy breast. I kissed her, nipping at her lips as I palmed her tit. She melted against me, pulling me closer to her warm, tight body. As I ran my hand down her curves to the warmth between her legs, I felt my jeans loosened and her hand slipped around my cock. "Fuck! Bella …"
She smiled against my mouth as she slowly stroked my length. I deepened my kiss, sinking two fingers into her warmth. Bella shuddered and pulled back. "Edward, I need you, baby. Please?" I pulled back, staring at her. She was looking at me with desire, need and love. I removed my fingers from her body and took a steadying breath.
This is it.
Slowly, we pushed my jeans and boxer briefs over my hips, down my legs. Bella stared at me, into my eyes. Her fingers glided down my side to my left hip where I had an eight-inch long scar. I couldn't really feel her hand as she traced the incision was located. "I'm still here," I whispered. "I'm not going anywhere."
"I love you," she whispered back. "I'm not going anywhere either. We belong together, Edward." She gently pushed me onto my back and straddled my lap. My arousal was trapped between us, leaking and aching for release. Leaning forward, she kissed me gently as she sank over me.
I was surrounded by her. My length was buried in her warmth, feeling her pulse all around me. "Bella …" I choked out.
"I know," she cried, her fingers wiping my cheeks. I didn't realize I was crying, but I was so overcome with emotion. After months of uncertainty, I knew that we would be okay. "I'd forgotten how good it felt to be with you like this."
"Me, too," I said. "I'll never stop loving you, Bella. For as long as I live." She smiled, kissing me and began moving slowly over me. Our lovemaking was slow and healing, in more ways than I could ever describe. Every inch of my body was on fire from pleasure, overwhelming joy. Bella thread her fingers with mine and her eyes filled with so much.
With every thrust, every movement, I felt even closer to Bella. She was also beginning to cry as we both felt our orgasms begin to crest. "Edward …" she cried out as she trembled. "Oh, God!" Her mouth found mine as we came together, lost in the emotions of making love, healing our relationship and becoming even closer as a couple. Spilling inside her, our movements slowed until I slipped out of her. Bella moved so she was snuggled against me. "I can't imagine not being with you, Edward," she sniffled. "I'm sorry …"
"Please don't apologize, angel," I murmured, holding her close to my body. "We're together and that's all that matters. I love you and you love me."
"Forever, Grinch," she giggled. "To infinity …"
I snorted, kissing her lips. "And, beyond."
"You went there?" Bella laughed.
"I went there," I smirked. "You're the one who said that intimacy can be about giggles, laughter and silliness. I want that. I want your silliness, your tears and everything in between."
"Same, Edward," she whispered, pulling the blanket over our naked bodies. "Now, I want to take a nap before I get my own taste. We're not done, Grinch."
xx FFADS xx
Bella was standing in our bedroom, a bag packed for a two day trip to New York to meet with Victoria and Jane for another combined campaign for New Moon Cosmetics and York Towne Clothing. She'd be flying out later this morning after she dropped Katie off at school. "I feel so bad that I'm missing your first day back, Edward," she frowned. "Alice scheduled this trip without consulting me."
"Angel, it's okay," I said, walking over to her and taking her face in my hands. "It's not like I'm having a staff meeting. I'm just having a meeting with the team leaders, minus Alice, of course." I kissed her and smiled against her mouth. "Call me when you get settled in the hotel. Okay?"
She slid her arms around my neck. "I will, Grinch. I love you. Have an amazing day at work. Don't push it too hard …"
"Bella, I sit on my ass for the most part," I snickered, patting her ass. "Don't worry either."
"You'll be able to pick up Katie, right?" Bella asked, arching a brow.
"Bella, relax. We've got this," I laughed. "Now, I'm going to head to the office. Have a safe flight, okay?"
"I will. I'll miss you," she whispered, brushing her lips with mine.
"I'll miss you, too," I whispered against her mouth. I stepped away and slid on my suit jacket. It felt weird to be dressed up. I'd worn jeans or workout clothes for months. The structured cut of the suit was so different than t-shirts, jeans and casual attire. With one more kiss, I went downstairs. "Little One, did you eat your breakfast? Bella made muffins."
"I did," she nodded, petting Sam's ears. "You look very handsome."
"I feel very weird," I chuckled, sitting down next to her with my breakfast. "I just wanted to remind you that Nana is picking you up from school because I'm going back to work."
"Okay," she frowned. "Are we still going to make dinner together? It's what we do!"
"I promise, Katie," I said, kissing her cheek. "I'll see you at Nana's. I love you, sweet girl."
"Love you more, Edward," she whispered, sliding her arms around my waist. I kissed her forehead, picking up my briefcase and ducking out the back door. I called up to Bella, wishing her a good trip and that I loved her. She responded in kind.
Bella, on whim, sold her car and I was now parking in her garage after I'd had a charging station installed for my electrical car.
I slid into the driver's seat and made my way to the office. Parking my Tesla, I blew out a breath and rode up to the MAC floors. The doors opened up and the lobby was filled with balloons and the entire staff. "WELCOME BACK!" everyone cheered. I jumped, but laughed as I stepped into the lobby.
"It's about time you got your lazy ass back to work," Rose smirked, giving me a hug. "You look good, boss."
"Thanks, Rose," I chuckled. "And thank you for the warm welcome back."
"It wasn't the same without you," Sue said, handing me a small cake. "We're glad that you're back."
"It's good to be back," I replied. "Now, I'm going to enjoy this cake and catch up on everything I've missed. Rose, when you get a chance, please come into my office and bring Shelly with you."
"Sure thing, Edward," Rose said, giving me a shitty grin.
"What did you to my office?" I grumbled. Rose just cackled, walking to her office. Sighing deeply, I strolled into my office and there were balloons, streamers and signs all over anything that wasn't mobile. I shrugged, pushing the balloons off my desk and chairs. I sat down, docking my computer and pulled up my proposal for restructuring MAC. I printed it out for Rose and Shelly.
A half hour later, Rose came in with Shelly with a smirk. "I love what you've done with the place," Rose quipped, kicking a balloon.
"You did this," I snorted. "Come in and have a seat. When you leave, you're going to take the damned balloons with you."
"Sure, boss," Rose grinned. "Now, what's up?"
I handed Rose and Shelly the proposal. "Making MAC something more. We're getting bigger and receiving a lot more notoriety, especially since the Clio Awards. We need to expand."
"This is a promotion," Rose whispered. "Chief Operations Officer … Edward … How? Why?!"
"You deserve this, Rose. You kept this place afloat while I was getting a bionic limb," I said. "Obviously, HR would be under your control. You'd be in charge of hiring, firing and everything in between when it comes to the operation of MAC. I also want to hire a Chief Financial Officer, along with a bigger staff for administration … Shelly, you'd be working …"
"I want to put my hat in the ring for CFO," Shelly said. "I know I only have an associate degree, but I've been doing the payroll with you for how long? I know it's a long-shot. I want to try."
"Okay," I smiled. "Put your resume into the mix."
"If we're opening up the role for CFO, we should do the same for COO," Rose countered. "I mean, I'm honored to be considered, but there could be more valuable candidates than me. You were hired based on your merits. I want to be hired for the same reasons. Who will be the hiring panel?"
"More than likely the team leaders or proxies chosen by the team leaders," I said. I looked at Rose as she held her promotion in her hand. She ripped up the offer and smirked. "Okay, I'll post the positions and accept resumes through the middle of October. We'll begin interviews a week after we close the resume window and go from there."
"Sounds good," Rose nodded. "Now, about Riley? Did Bella fill you in?"
The rest of the morning was spent discussing about some of the drama going on in the company. Namely, Riley's choice to resign after he'd been called out on making one too many mistakes and losing a client because of that mistake. Thankfully, Rose's quick thinking and smooth talking had repaired any rift between the client and our company. Riley was effectively thrown under the bus, but it was his mistake and not the fault of the company.
We still lost the client, but there was no bad blood.
Wrapping up the meeting with the discussion of creating another team, we finished up and I sent out the agenda for the team leader meeting in the afternoon. I had a conference call with some prospective clients. I ate lunch with Emmett, Jasper and Embry. While we ate, we talked about starting up our Sunday tradition of watching the Bears suck at local sports bars.
After lunch, the team leader meeting took place in the small conference room. Alice called in while Bella was in a meeting with Jane and Eric. It felt amazing to collaborate with the team leaders. I'd missed this. I felt invigorated and happy with my colleagues. No, they were more than that. They were my friends, my family.
Okay, extended family.
Bella, Katie and my parents were my true family.
At the end of the day, I packed up my computer and slid my messenger bag over my head. I took out my keys, striding through the lobby. I waved at Shelly, who was packing up. As the elevator doors closed, I held my phone to my ear.
"Edward!" Katie squealed.
"Hey, Little One," I smiled. "Miss me?"
"Always, Edward," she giggled. "Can we have pizza for dinner?"
"I'll call it in, Katie and we'll pick it up on our way home," I chuckled.
"Yay!" Katie cheered. "And, Edward?"
"What, Little One?"
"I love you," she sang.
"I love you, too," I grinned. "I'll always love you."
xx FFADS xx
The next couple of months flew by. Bella and I had settled into a routine. Bella and I would usually drop Katie off at school. My mom would pick her up and a couple times a week, we'd have dinner with my parents. Bella still hadn't really done much driving, but she wasn't as terrified when she got into a car. Nor did she have a panic attack when she was a passenger.
A few weeks after the annual Halloween party, New Moon Cosmetics and York Towne clothing had a combined holiday campaign party. Bella and the women from the office were all decked out in Jane's designs. Photos from the party would be used on the social media campaign for both companies in some sort of crossover advertising. It was Bella's brainchild. She wanted the potential buyers to see what the clothes and the makeup looked on real people. Both Jane and Victoria loved the idea.
So, they ran with it.
Unlike the first campaign party where I ran into my ex-wife, Bella and I had an amazing time. We'd spent the night at the hotel where the party was being held and christened every flat surface of the suite I'd reserved while my parents took Katie to Wisconsin Dells. When we woke up the next morning, I was feeling the pain, but it was so worth it.
Friendsgiving was celebrated at MAC as we announced Rose's promotion. She'd been the best choice for the Chief Operations Officer. It was a close call for Chief Financial Officer, but an outside candidate Christina Bailey had inched past Shelly. I was ready to offer it to Shelly, but after the final interviews, Christina had wowed us. Shelly did transfer to be Christina's assistant and they were working together seamlessly.
The next day, Bella and I celebrated Thanksgiving with my parents and the day following, we decked out the brownstone with twinkle lights and the overabundance of Christmas décor. This year was a lot lighter. The heaviness of the first Christmas without parents and loved ones was not an overbearing pall on the holidays.
A couple of weeks after Thanksgiving, I took Katie shopping with me to pick out an engagement ring. She had a half day of school for some teacher meeting and we went out, going in search of the perfect ring. Four stores and the cost of an Ivy-League college education for a year, we'd found the perfect ring for Bella. It was elegant, with a touch of vintage flare. The ring we decided on was a platinum setting with diamonds on the band with rose gold accents and sapphires. The center stone was a two carat round-cut diamond that sparkled like magic under the halogen lights of the jewelry store.
We also managed to get presents for my parents and for the Secret Santa gift exchange at MAC. I also snuck a few gifts for Katie when she was occupied with various toys and other items around the registers. I knew that Bella would have a hissy fit that I got her the ring, so I kept my gifts to her were small stocking stuffers, things that she needed or a few things that reminded me of her.
"Edward," Katie said, taking my hand. "Are we going to have that party on Christmas Eve like last year?"
"That's the plan, Little One," I answered, walking to the exit of Water Tower Place. "We're going to spend Christmas Eve at the brownstone and on Christmas Day, we're going to church before going to my parents' place. Like last year …"
"I get to be a part of Christmas Mass this year," Katie chirped. "Deacon Andy is having the kids sing at the eleven o'clock service." We got into my car, loading up the presents into the back. "Edward?"
"Yes, Katie," I chuckled, buckling her into the booster seat. I kissed her forehead.
"Are we moving?" she asked, her brow furrowed. "I like the house we live in now. It's home."
I crouched down and took her hands. "Katie, it is home. But, it's just the three of us and Sam. What if Bella and I have a baby? Where would the baby go? There's only two bedrooms. We'd like to get something bigger, in the same area, but bigger."
"Would the baby you have, would it be my brother or sister?" she asked. She pouted, taking my face in her hands. "Would the baby call you Daddy and Bella mommy?"
"Do you miss your mommy and daddy?" I whispered, kissing her palms.
"I do, a lot, but I called Bella Mommy over the weekend. She cried. She hid it, but I heard her crying when she was doing laundry," Katie shrugged. "Some kids in school saw you and I just said you were my daddy."
"Is that something you want, Katie?" I swallowed and stared into her blue eyes. "Do want to call me Daddy?"
"I want to, but I don't want to hurt my real mommy and daddy," she said.
"Katie, when I moved in with Nana and Papa, I called them by their first names," I explained. "I never trusted anyone enough to call them Mom or Dad. The last people who I called my parents had died and after that, I had foster families who hurt me. When I did call them Mom and Dad, they both cried because they gained my trust. Your real mommy and daddy know that you adore them, but you can call me Edward, Daddy, or anything you want. I'm certain that Bella would feel the same way, too. We love you so much, Katie."
Katie's brows furrowed and she looked a lot like Bella as she pondered what I said. I stood up, kissed her cheek. "Just think about it, Katie. Whatever you decide, it won't change how we feel about you, Little One," I said.
She nodded, giving me a serious grin as I closed the back door. I got into the driver's side, backing out of the parking spot. I drove to the office, picking up Bella at her therapy appointment. We stopped at one of our favorite Mexican restaurants for dinner and drove home. Bella gave Katie a bath while I made lunches for all of us. A half hour later, Bella came down, wearing her pajamas, which was one of my t-shirts and a pair of leggings. She walked to the fridge and pulled out a bottle of white wine, along with two glasses. She poured us both hefty glasses and pushed the bottle to the center of the island.
"What is it, angel?" I asked.
"Katie asked if she could call me mom," she whispered, sipping her wine. "How do I respond to that? My mother was her mom. I'm her sister." She spun her glass and the wine sloshed over the rim.
"Bella," I murmured, walking to her and moved her glass away from her fingers. "Look at me."
"I can't do this," she sniffled. "I'm not her mother."
"In every way that matters, you are," I whispered. "Do you think less of Esme because she didn't have me? She's not my blood?"
"Never. You and Esme are … Don't think that I … shit! I'm fucking things up, aren't I?" she gasped. "Edward, what would my parents think?"
"That you love your sister, no matter what," I said. "And, you're not fucking things up."
"You're strangely calm about this. Why are you so calm?"
"Because Katie talked to me after our shopping spree," I answered. "Some of the kids asked about me when I'd pick her up or drop her off and she said that I was her dad, just to make things easier for her." I took Bella's hand and cupped her cheek. "You have something that I don't share with Carlisle and Esme … you and Katie are truly related. You are bonded through blood, family and love."
"It's not a slap in the face to my mom?" Bella whispered, looking up at me.
"No, angel. She would be happy that you love Katie as if you did give birth to her," I whispered back, holding her tightly.
"I don't know what I'd do without you, Grinch," she said, snaking her arms around my neck "I love you."
"I love you, too, angel," I sighed, kissing her lips.
After spending the night just vegging out and wrapping some of the gifts that I'd picked up, tossing them under the tree. Bella went upstairs and before I unplugged the Christmas tree, I pulled out Bella's engagement ring. It glowed and twinkled under the lights. With a smile, I closed the box and went upstairs.
Christmas Eve … I'm proposing on Christmas Eve.
I couldn't wait.
A/N: Okay, I lied. There's one more chapter after this and then the epilogue. This chapter is already a beast and I do not want to rush the proposal. Besides, I think that conversation between Edward, Katie and Bella needed to be had … the conversation about what to call them.
Anyway, the next chapter will be the MAC Christmas Eve celebration at Bella's place with everyone and then those magical words from Grinchy, plus some citrusy actions. Leave me your thoughts!
Pictures from this chapter are on my blog. You can find a link for that on my profile. I'm also on Facebook: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. I'm on twitter, too: tufano79.
Leave me some!