Chapter 05
Leaning against my desk, I watch as my students begin to trickle into the classroom. It's easy to see their anxieties are high with the impending exams that begin tomorrow. There's also a buzzing chatter about what everyone's plans are for spring break. The excitement and anxiety clash together, making the atmosphere in my classroom a bit intense for my liking. I have an essential oil diffuser running on my desk, exhaling a mixture of chamomile and lavender to help with the anxiety and provide a little peace and calm. I'm not huge on essential oils, but my therapist always has a diffuser in her office, which is a very relaxed atmosphere, so I figure I may as well try to use one in my classroom. This is only the fourth or fifth time I've turned it on since buying it, but I at least enjoy the fragrance it adds to the air. It makes the classroom feel less dingy.
"Alright, everyone," I say after the bell to start class rings, clasping my hands together in front of me. "So, as you know, your exam for this class is tomorrow morning. I'm not the kind of teacher to ask you trick questions or ask you to recall minute details. If you've read the material this semester and you've done your homework, you're going to do just fine. That's not a pass to not study, though. Definitely review your work and notes. With that said, I'm giving you this hour to organize your notes, figure out what you need help with, and ask me any questions you may have before the exam. This is your time to study; use it to your advantage." With that, I offer a smile and motion for them to begin.
I move to sit behind my desk, turning to my own work while my students start shuffling through their papers. I was originally going to use today to discuss the literary elements in The Kite Runner but decided last minute to wait until after spring break. It isn't going to be on their exam anyways, so I don't want to get into it when they can use this time to study.
While my students work, I sort through my lesson plans, tweaking anything from last year that didn't work as well as I thought it would. As I'm working, though, I can't seem to stop my mind from wandering back to breakfast on Saturday. I feel like I've known Edward for years instead of days and Saturday was proof of that. While I was nervous to tell him about James, I didn't stop myself like I thought I would have. I did spend the rest of the day worrying about whether my story was going to scare him off after he'd had time to process it, though.
My worries were put to rest when he texted me in the evening, though, thanking me for telling him about my past relationship. I'm not big on texting, not that I have many people to text in the first place. Rose and I tend to just call each other to talk because we normally have too much to say over text. Texting my parents is a nightmarish chore, so I end up calling them too. The only people I really text are Emmett and Jasper if I have something I need to tell them. Other than that, I tend to call people. With Edward, though, I texted him for hours without even getting annoyed. We didn't even talk about anything consequential, just random topics we came up with. Talking to him is so easy, it's like he's been my friend since childhood. I wonder if he talks to Emmett as much as he talks to me. I mean, Emmett kind of stole Rose from me so I may as well steal his friend, too. I smile at the thought as a student calls out my name.
Glancing up, I look over at the girl with her hand in the air.
"What is it, Jane?" I ask kindly.
"Does our exam cover what we've read so far in The Kite Runner?" she asks.
"Yes, it'll cover the chapters as well as the discussions we've had on the book. Is there anything specific you need help with for the book?" I ask. She looks down at her notes for a minute, shuffling through them, before looking up at me and shaking her head with a smile. I smile back at her and return my concentration to my lesson plans, trying to keep my mind off Edward.
The end of the school day comes quicker than I expected it to. My students race out of the classroom, eager to get out of school and, most likely, forget about their exams until tomorrow. I have a little more than a handful of students that I know will put in the time to study for my exam tomorrow but more of my students will definitely be putting off studying for my class in order to study for others.
I close my lesson plan binder before shoving it into my messenger bag along with my laptop. After double checking to make sure I haven't forgotten anything, I walk out of my classroom, closing and locking the door behind me. Knowing I have my midterms stashed in my desk, I triple check that my door is locked. It's not that I don't trust my students, I just want to make sure everything is secure. Knowing my luck, I'd be the one teacher to get her answer key stolen, copied, and distributed.
Once I'm satisfied with my locked door, I make my way down to Rose's office. As I walk in, she's finishing up some filing, closing the filing cabinet drawer as I drop into a chair.
"Hey," she greets as she locks the drawer. "Your students more attentive today?"
"As attentive as they can be when they're studying," I say, my voice filled with humor. "I gave my classes the time to prepare for our exam. English tends to be shoved to the side of the study priorities compared to math and science so I wanted to know they at least had an hour of study time."
"Good idea," Rose smiles. She grabs her purse and stands. "Ready?" she asks. I nod and follow her as she makes her way out of her office. I wait as she locks her door before we walk out of the building together.
Rose and I have started a tradition of going to the bar for a glass of wine or two the day before exams start. Rose tends to be a little busier during this time because she has students that need some counseling to get them through the exam anxieties. And I'm busier because of all the exams I need to grade and all the grades I need of all the exams I need to grade and all the grade I need to submit for the end of the semester. So, to prepare ourselves, Rose and I like to get a drink together.
We drive separately to the bar, which takes all of two minutes. I don't typically like the idea of going to the bar in the same town I teach in, but options are limited around here and it's not like I'm underage or getting wasted on the regular. I tend to save my wasted nights for my living room or Rose's; although, those nights aren't often.
I carefully step out of my truck, praying to whatever higher power will listen in hopes that I won't break an ankle in my heels. Whoever listened grants my wish and I remain unscathed as I walk over to Rose as she climbs out of her car. As we walk towards the front door, she loops her arm through mine, something we've done since high school. I smile over at her and she returns it with her own, hers more supermodel-esque than mine with her icy blue eyes lined with a winged linger and her plump, red stained lips.
I've always envied her ability to perfectly apply makeup. If I apply even slightly too much foundation, my whole face looks caked with it. I've also never been able to get the whole winged eyeliner thing down. One was always longer or thicker than the other. Rose has tried teaching me countless times but it's never stuck.
We walk over to the bar and grab two seats, which isn't difficult at this time of day. There are only a few other people here, seeing as it's only three in the afternoon. The bartender makes his way over to us, laying down a well-loved cardboard coaster in front of each of us.
"What can I get you ladies?" he asks, leaning his forearms against the bar top and looking between us.
"I'll take a glass of Riesling," Rose orders.
"Moscato for me, please," I order when his gaze turns to me. He smiles at the two of us and straightens up before walking towards the wine bottles.
My phone buzzes in my purse, pulling my attention towards it. Reaching into my purse, I grab my phone and turn the screen on. Rose glances over my shoulder, knowing I don't usually mind when she does so.
"Edward's texting you? Emmett's Edward?" she asks, sounding more shocked than I thought necessary.
"Is that what we're calling him?" I ask, amused. "We've been texting since Saturday, why?" I add before realizing I hadn't told her about the diner or my nightmare. "We ran into each other at the diner. I was there for breakfast when he walked in."
"Why am I just hearing about this?" she pouts, almost sounding offended. I know she's just putting on an act but I do feel bad about not telling her. We tell each other everything, even details I don't want to know because it involves her relationship with Emmett.
"Sorry, I should have told you," I smile sheepishly. "I went to the diner because I had a nightmare and couldn't sleep afterwards. Edward happened to come in and he joined me."
"Emmett's going to be mad that you're stealing his friend," she jokes and I roll my eyes before glancing down at the text.
Any good class discussions today? – E
Turning the screen off, I stash my phone into my purse again, making a mental reminder to text him back later. I can't help but smile, though, knowing he remembered my struggles with getting my class to participate in discussion.
The bartender walks over with our wine, setting the glasses in front of us with a wink before walking away. Rose lifts her glass and holds it out a bit, signaling she wants to make a toast. I smirk, grabbing my own glass and raising it up with hers.
"To another Hell Week," she grins and we clink our glasses together.
"May it go by quickly," I add on, laughing, before sipping my wine. The liquid lights up my tastebuds from the sweetness without it being too sickly sweet. I'm not big into dry wines but I also don't like my wine to be too sweet. If it's too sweet, you may as well be drinking a mixed drink at that point.
"Don't forget, it's your week to bring dessert to Mom and Dad's," Rose reminds me. "An apple crisp would be amazing."
"Is this your way of saying you want me to bring apple crisp?" I ask, quirking an eyebrow.
"I'm just throwing it out there," she grins. Just like Rose's brownies are my favorite dessert she makes, she practically drools over my apple crisp.
"I'll bring apple crisp," I smile at her. "I also need to get more vanilla ice cream. We used all of Mom and Dad's last week." Rose celebrates a little, dancing in her seat before taking another sip of wine.
I pick up the wine glass, looking down at the liquid as I swirl it slightly. The pale gold liquid travels up the sides of the glass before making its way back down. After a moment of this, I bring it up to my lips and take a large drink before setting it down the bar top.
"I'm seeing Doctor Greene on Thursday," I announce, still looking at my glass. I feel Rose's stare snap over to me, not having to look over to register the surprise on her face. "With James being out, I think it's best for me to start going again."
"I agree," Rose nods, reaching for my hand and squeezing it.
"Yeah, Jasper said you all have been hoping I'd go back. I knew you were because you verbally accost me about it every chance you get, but I had no clue everyone else felt the same."
"Bell," she smiles softly, almost self-consciously. "I know I've been a bit overbearing with voicing my opinion on you going back, but we really do just want what's best for you. I know you've come a long way from where you were three months ago but this is a whole journey in itself. It's not a quick fix." I nod and smile over at her.
"I appreciate your concern. I'm sorry it's taken so long," I start but she cuts me off.
"Don't start with that apologizing," she shakes her head, pretending to disapprove. "You do it too much," she adds on with a giggle.
"I can't help it," I giggle back. I take a smaller drink from my wine this time, happy that the air between us didn't become uncomfortable or intense.
EPOV
I sit in my Volvo at the back of the bar parking lot, making sure it's not conspicuous enough for Bella to look over and see me, but in a place where I can clearly see the front door. It's a slow time for the bar. The big crowds – well, as big as a crowd can be in Forks – come in a few hours from now, so I'm able to relax a bit. It's easy to notice when someone walks or drives up, but there's only been one or two people so far.
I take this time to try to find a motorized children's motorcycle for Riley. With his birthday approaching, I want to make sure I have enough time to go wherever I need to get it. I'll probably have to travel to Port Angeles or Seattle, which is a difficult task these days now that I'm a full-time babysitter. By the time my shift is over, it'll be too late to head out there and the stores don't open early enough for me to get there and back before my shift starts up again.
I suppose I could always order it, but I want to see it in person before I buy it; make sure it's not too big or small for Riley. Scrolling through my search results, I find a promising link for a store in Port Angeles. I open up the page and am met with the sleekest looking toddler motorcycle I've ever seen. The toy bike is a model 6V BMW with red and black paint. I'm so intrigued with it that I consider trading in my Yamaha. I quickly shake the thought from my head, not enjoying the idea of parting with my Yamaha. Maybe I'll get the BMW as a second bike someday. I like that thought better.
I glance up as I see a car pull into the lot. Checking the plate number, I confirm the plate isn't the same as James', which isn't necessarily saying it can't be him, but it does make it less likely. Keeping my eye on the car, I wait until the driver's door opens. A woman gets out and I turn my attention back to my phone.
I take screenshot of the toddler bike and send it to Alice.
How about this for Ri? – E
It doesn't take long for her to respond. You would think with being a full-time event planner and a full-time mom, she wouldn't have such quick texting reflexes, but it doesn't take her more than two minutes to respond to a text most of the time.
He'll love it. – A
Don't get him anything else. The bike is more than enough. – A
I chuckle to myself, knowing I'll be getting him more despite her telling me not to. I'd give him the world if I could.
Movement at the front door draws my attention. Rose and Bella make their way out of the bar, laughing with each other. I can't help but stare at how carefree Bella looks, despite everything going on in her life. Her pale cheeks are flushed a rosy pink, her hair pulled out of her face in a high ponytail. It's nice to be able to see her face without her hair framing it, but I find that I prefer her hair down. Either way, though, she's beautiful; there's no point in denying it.
Her burgundy dress is bold against her pale skin, stopping just above her knees. A cream cardigan hugs her arms and falls to a few inches above the bottom of the dress. Her legs seem to go on forever before they get down to her tan high-heeled boots, which had to be two or three inches tall. The whole outfit definitely made her look like a teacher, but it was the kind of teacher students would fantasize about.
I shake my head, reminding myself that she's Chief's daughter and I'm basically her babysitter. I'm allowed to find her beautiful, but I definitely cannot be letting myself think about her in any way other than friendly. She doesn't need another guy coming into her life trying to be romantic with her at this point in time, anyways.
I watch as she climbs into her truck, the door creaking loudly as it shuts. I chuckle to myself, thinking how strange it is to see this small woman get into the bulky truck. While the truck isn't huge, it does make her seem smaller than she is. The roar of the engine fills the parking lot before she pulls out of her spot to leave. I wait for Rose to leave, too, before turning my car on and slowly following Bella as she makes her way home.
I feel like a total creep as I follow her, parking on the street that intersects hers. It's a little less conspicuous than parking outsider her house. Subtlety is the key here, after all. Turning my car of, I stretch my legs out and phone Chief.
"Chief Swan," he answers gruffly.
"It's Cullen, Sir," I reply, crossing my arms over my chest as I try to get comfortable. There's no good way to get comfortable with the small amount of leg space I have, even with moving the seat back as far as I can, but I make it work the best I can.
"Is everything okay?" he asks on high alert and I can tell he's immediately jumped to the worst thoughts. I make a mental note to start my conversations out with letting him know Bella's okay in the future.
"Everything's fine," I assure him. "She's back at her house and Jasper's there with her. I was just calling to ask how you felt about me taking Bella to Port Angeles. Figured I'd get permission before taking your daughter out of town."
"Port Angeles?" he questions skeptically. "Why would you do that?" And here's the protective father mode coming out. I have a feeling I'll have to deal with this side of him a lot during this assignment.
"I need to pick up a gift for my nephew's birthday but can't do that and still be here keeping a lookout. I'm going to ask her if she wants to come with me to pick up the gift. That way, I can get my nephew what he wants and still make sure Bella's safe."
"And you can't just order it?" he asks, although I can tell he's not going to put up much resistance.
"I want to make sure it's the right size for him before I buy it," I explain. Chief mulls this over for a minute. I can her him shuffling through papers as he multitasks this call with whatever he's working on.
"Fine, but no funny business, Cullen," he warns.
"Wouldn't think of it," I reply.
"What? Are you saying my daughter isn't worth thinking about?" he asks.
"No, Sir, I, uh," I sputter, cursing myself for how nervous this man can make me. He's not even here to physically intimidate me and I'm still beyond intimidated.
"I'm pulling your leg, Cullen," he responds and I can hear the smile in his voice. Maybe he is the joking type after all. I shake my head, chuckling under my breath. "But seriously, no funny business," he adds, serious again.
"Yes Sir," I nod even though he can't see it.
"And stop calling me Sir. I'm not that old," he says before hanging up. Breathing deep, I place my phone in my cupholder.
BPOV
As I walk into the house, I'm immediately assaulted by Rufus, who's entertaining himself by pushing his way between my legs and walking circles around me. I laugh as I hold onto the wall to keep my balance. Jasper hurries into the walkway, calling Rufus and snapping his fingers before pointing to the floor by his feet. Rufus happily trots over and sits at Jasper's feet, his body still wriggling with excitement.
"Hello to you too, Rufus," I laugh. "You just saw me this morning."
"He going to knock you out one of these days," Jasper chuckles, shaking his head at Rufus. I take this time to take my heels off before bending down to greet Rufus properly. He jumps up from Jasper's side and bounds back over to me, rubbing his wiggling body against me as I scratch his back.
"I wouldn't mind him knocking me over," I joke, looking up at Jasper. Once Rufus calms down a bit, I get up, brushing his fur off my dress the best I can.
"How were your drinks?" Jasper asks. I fish my phone out of my purse and we make our way to the living room.
"Fun," I grin. "And it was drink, not drinks," I correct. I remember then that Edward texted me earlier and I pull it up on my phone.
Not today, hah. My students spent their time today studying for their exam. – B
We have exams the next three days and then the students are off school on Friday to begin their spring break. I, unfortunately, don't get Friday off. I need to go in to enter grades and get them turned in by the end of the day. Rose normally goes in the day after exams, too, in order to catch up any work she's fallen behind on. This time, though, she and Emmett have a vacation planned, so she's going to be off that day. They aren't going too far, just to a cabin a few hours away, but they don't want to wait the extra day. If she doesn't have to go into work, there's no point in going, anyway.
My phone buzzes in my hand with a response from Edward.
Sounds like a long day. – E
I was able to catch up on some lesson planning during the day, so it's a win-win for me. Students actually studying my material and finishing work I would normally finish over spring break. – B
You're going to be bored over your break now. – E
I laugh to myself at his text, feeling like a damn teenager. I don't even have feelings for this guy and he makes me nervous, but in the best way. I think it just feels nice to have friends outside of my family again. I'd spent so long only associating myself with my family and James that I've forgotten how it feels to just have a friend. Another text from Edward buzzes through my phone.
I could help you with plans one of those days. I have to drive to Port Angeles to pick up a present for my nephew. Want to come? – E
Without putting much thought into it, I sent him a reply, agreeing to go with him. He is right after all, I'm going to be bored over break with nothing to do, especially with Rose being out of town, so I may as well take the short trip with him.
"What're you smiling about?" Jasper asks, nosily.
"Nothing, I'm just texting Edward."
"Oh, you're texting him now?" he teases and I roll my eyes.
"Now you sound like Rose," I say, giving him a pointed look. "She told me Emmett's not going to be happy that I'm stealing his friend," I add on, laughing.
"He's going to complain, that's for sure," he laughs with me.
"Well, he's going to have to deal with it. It's nice to have a friend again," I say, feeling my cheeks warm at how embarrassing that sentence is. Jasper picks up on it and rubs my back a few times.
"I'm sure it is," he agrees with me.
XOXO
Wednesday comes quicker than I anticipated and I find myself rushing out of school as soon as my last exam period is over, which is only two hours earlier than a normal day. I know I should stay and grade the exams from today but I don't have the time. I need to get home and make the apple crisp I promised Rose.
Rose has to stay until the end of the day in case a student comes into her office so I don't bother stopping by her office before leaving. I'm so behind on the apple crisp that I don't even have the ingredients I need to make it. I hurry to my truck, climbing inside and pulling out of the parking lot. I never bothered to write down the ingredients I need so I'm going to be buying what I remember and dealing with whatever I'm missing. I'm sure I'll figure it out.
After the few minute drive to Thriftway, I get out of the truck, walking inside as fast as my wedges will allow me. I, thankfully, have an easier time walking in wedges than I do heels, so I'm not as worried about twisting an ankle and falling as I would be if I were wearing any of my heels. Once I'm inside, I'm in my own world, focusing on what I'm here for. I pick up a basket before making my way to the produce section. I like to use a mixture of tart and sweet apples in my apple crisp. The recipe calls for just granny smith apples but I like to throw in a few honeycrisp apples into the mix. It adds a natural sweetness to the apple filling without pushing the sweetness over the edge.
I sift through the apples, trying to find the perfect ones. I manage to pick out four granny smith apples and two honeycrisps before glancing around for lemons. The lemon is my secret ingredient. It doesn't add a distinct flavor but it does cut out some of the sweetness. I walk over to the lemon display and grab a large lemon, turning it in my hand and squeezing it slightly to inspect it before depositing it into my basket, too.
Now I need the baking aisle, which is near the center of the store. I make my way past the aisles, glancing up at the signs, even though I know the store like the back of my hand. The manager hasn't changed up the layout since I was a child so I've had this store memorized since my teenage years. Once I get to the baking aisle, I make my way down it to pick up a bag of brown sugar. Jasper and I don't typically keep a stock of brown sugar in the house because we end up making oatmeal and add way too much brown sugar for it to even be considered healthy anymore.
Now I need old fashioned oats. Luckily, the breakfast aisle is only one aisle over. As I round the corner, I notice a mess of bronze hair at the other end. My eyes travel from the tousled hair down to the familiar face. He looks engrossed in the cereal selection. Without thinking, I make my way down the aisle towards him. As I get closer, I realize he's looking at the Lucky Charms.
"I personally prefer Fruity Pebbles," I say as I approach him. His head snaps over to me and a smile forms on his lips.
"Is that so?" Edward asks. "You're really into having sugar for breakfast, aren't you?" he teases.
"Sometimes I need the sugar rush in the morning," I supply, giving a small smile. "You're the one that's looking at the sugary cereals, though," I point out.
"You've got me there," he chuckles and picks up a box of Lucky Charms. "I do love Lucky Charms."
"You'd be crazy not to," I inform. "I've always said to never trust someone that doesn't like Lucky Charms." He gives me a confused look, not knowing if he should laugh or not. "That was a joke," I add on. "Not a very good one, clearly." He finally laughs a bit and shakes his head.
"I just didn't want to offend you if that was something you really did say," he defends, still laughing. He glances down at my basket before looking back up at me. "Why doesn't it surprise me that you're buying sugar?" he asks.
"I have to make dessert for dinner tonight," I explain. Reaching down, I move the sugar to reveal the apples. "It has apples in it, so it has to be at least somewhat healthy," I continue, earning a groan from Edward.
"I take it you're making an apple pie?" he asks.
"Apple crisp," I correct.
"Even worse," he laughs. "That's basically sugar with a side of oatmeal and apples."
"This was Rose's request so I can't just not make it," I argue, laughing with him. He just shakes his head, still chuckling. "How's the training going?" I ask, changing the subject, making Edward groan again.
"Let's just say that your brother is good at his job," he laughs. "My abs have never been so sore." As he says this, he rubs his stomach and my eyes glance down to watch. Before I realize it, I'm staring and I quickly look away, blushing.
"That's why I won't let him train me," I laugh. "Plus, I wouldn't keep up with it. I'd go on the days we had training but wouldn't go on the days we don't."
"Getting in the habit of going four times a week is rough," he admits with a nod. I glance down at my watch and realize I need to get back on track.
"I actually have to go," I smile apologetically. "I have to get this apple crisp done by dinner."
"Get to it then," he smiles. "Maybe get a few apples to eat by themselves, too, while you're at it," he teases. I roll my eyes and shake my head, backing up a few steps before turning to walk back to the oatmeal area. I grab a box of oats before heading back towards the end of the aisle Edward was at. When I look up, he's just started walking away.
"Hey, Edward?" I call as I walk over. He stops and looks over at me.
"I thought you had baking to do," he laughs.
"I do," I answer quickly. "Are you busy? You want to come over for a drink while I bake? Jasper won't be home for at least another hour." I stop myself there, not wanting to make myself seem desperate to not be alone. Biting my lip, I try to stop the embarrassment from filling my cheeks.
"Yeah, that'd be fun," he nods and I smile, relieved.
"Alright, I have everything I need. Do you need to pick up anything else?"
"No, this is it," he smiles at me. We walk to the registers and he lets me go first to checkout. The cashier greets me and scans my items quickly, bagging them in a plastic bag. Once I pay, I pick up the bag and wait for Edward.
The cashier looks up at Edward to greet him and she immediately looks starstruck. She gives him a beaming smile and tries starting up a conversation with him. As I watch, I can't help but compare this to the waitress at the diner. I have no doubt in my mind that this woman would sway her hips the same way our waitress did if she had to walk by Edward. I look over at Edward to see if he's as oblivious to this woman as he was the waitress and I'm genuinely surprised to see that he is. He has no clue that she's clearly wanting him to notice her. The look of disappointment on her face as he picks up his bag and walks over to me is clear as day and, yet, he still doesn't notice.
"You ready?" Edward asks when he realizes I made no effort to move. I look up at his confused stare.
"Yeah, I'm ready," I say as I look back at the cashier one more time. We walk together out of the store and I can't help but ask him about it. "Did you not notice that cashier was into you?"
"What?" he asks, barking out a laugh. "What is with you and trying to find women that are into me?"
"I'm not!" I insist. "It's just not hard to see but you seem to be oblivious to it."
"I think you're seeing things," he says, still laughing and I shake my head, smiling, but don't press it further. I can see Edward's bike in the parking lot, one row over from my truck. He doesn't make any effort to break off from my path, though, as we walk towards the truck. When we're at the driver's side door, he opens it for me and I blush before getting inside.
"You can just follow me to my place," I tell him. "It's not far from here."
"Neither is anything else in town," he points out with a chuckle. I smile at his joke and nod in agreement. "I'll see you in a few minutes," he smiles before closing the door and walking over to his bike. I watch as he walks away, wondering how I got him to pay attention to me when these other women, whom are arguably more beautiful than me, can't even get him to look at them. Was it just because of Emmett? Would he have given me the time of day if I had just met him in the store or at a restaurant?
Edward pulls his helmet over his head and straddles the bike and I have to admit, it's the sexiest thing I've ever seen. I know that's weird to say about a friend but I can't help it. He starts up the bike and looks over his shoulder towards my truck. I take this as my cue and awaken the beast that is my engine. I pull out of the lot, suddenly nervous to have Edward in such a close proximity.
I just met him, I barely know him and yet, I've known him for years at the same time. I've contented myself to not look for more than friendship but being around him is electric. I feel charged whenever he's near and it's addicting. The more I see him, the more I want to be around him. I'm sobered by the realization that there's no way he could want more than friendship with me if he didn't even give two beautiful women the time of day.
I pull into the driveway, killing the engine. Edward parks his bike on the street and has his helmet off, making his way towards me before I can even grab everything I need to. He opens the door as I pick up the grocery bag and I make my way out of the truck, slowly. Sensing my hesitation, he reaches out for my arm to steady me, which only makes me flinch back, my foot slipping. I'm lucky Edward's reflexes seem to be perfect, because he manages to catch me before I can fall on my ass in the gravel.
The electric hum that I feel every time he touches me intensifies as he holds me upright, his arm snaked around my waist and my body completely pressed to his. My heart hammers in my chest with anxiety and excitement and I find myself frozen, my eyes glued to his.
"I am so sorry," he says as he lets me go. My body tingles where his was pressed against it, craving more contact. "I forgot I can't just reach out to you like that." He sounds genuinely upset with himself and I shake my head quickly to stop him.
"No, no, it's okay, honestly," I insist. "Thank you for your help. You saved me from having to explain to my family how I injured myself today," I add with a giggle. My heartbeat slows with the lack of physical content.
"Do you normally injure yourself?" he asks, quirking an eyebrow.
"I was always a clumsy child. I've grown out of it for the most part but I have my days," I explain with some humor in my voice. I carefully make my way past him and he follows me to the front door. As I find my house key on my keyring, I can hear Rufus barking from inside the house.
"I just want to warn you, Rufus is probably going to be wild when we get inside," I say as I shove the key into the door handle. When I open the door, sure enough, Rufus charges the doorway happily, his whole body wiggling in excitement. He first stops by me, wiggling against me as I scratch his back, before he realizes there's company over and makes his way over to Edward. Chuckling, Edward scratches Rufus' back as the dog writhes and wiggles in excitement.
I take this time to unstrap and detach my wedges from my feet. While they're not the most uncomfortable shoes I own, my feet are still relieved when they flatten against the floor. I walk over to the kitchen and set the groceries on the table before making my way back to the front hallway.
"I'm going to go change. Make yourself at home. There's beer in the fridge," I instruct and Edward looks up and smiles at me in response, still petting an overly excited Rufus. "You can let him out, too, if he gets to be too much. Just open the door and he won't go far." I pick up my wedges and make my way up the stairs and down the hall to my bedroom. I quickly change out of my slacks and blouse into a Pink Floyd t-shirt and a pair of jeans. I pile my hair on top of my head, securing it with a hair tie before making my way back down the stairs.
Edward is in the kitchen with a beer in his hand. He looks over as he hears me walk in and smiles again. This time, his smile makes my stomach flutter. I smile back at him as I open the fridge to grab my own beer.
"Way ahead of you," Edward says as he picks a beer up off the counter next to him. I grin and take it, taking a sip before setting it on the kitchen table.
"Alright, so I need to peel the apples," I say, more to myself than to him, as I grab the grocery bag off the table.
"Where's your vegetable peeler?" he asks, setting his beer down on the counter. I point to a drawer and he opens it, grabbing the peeler. After setting it down, he walks over to the sink and begins washing his hands.
"You don't have to help if you don't want to. I'm not going to make you bake with me," I insist lightly.
"I didn't hear you ask," he says, shooting me a smile over his shoulder. Oh, what these looks are doing to me. James used to always hate if I asked him to help me do something in the kitchen, but Edward doesn't seem to mind in the least. I watch as he dries his hands on the kitchen towel before walking over and taking the grocery bag from me, unloading everything onto the counter. Dammit, Bella, stop staring. I advert my glance to the counter and try to focus on what I need to be doing.
"So, if you want to peel the apples, I'll get the crumble started," I say as I pull out butter from the fridge. Edward gets to work on peeling the apples while I climb onto the counter to get the recipe book out of the cupboard above our microwave.
"Why do you put things in cupboards you can't reach?" Edwards asks, watching me. I look over at him, his eyes making their way up my body before fixating on mine.
"We have no other cupboard space for it and I don't use it all that often," I explain as I pull out the binder with all my recipes in it. Normally when I cook, I just eyeball the ingredients I'm using and don't follow one set recipe, but with baking, I try to be a bit more precise. I get down off the counter and make my way to the counter next to Edward, flipping to the page with the apple crisp recipe. I measure out my ingredients for the crumble, pouring them into a bowl, before cutting in the butter with a fork.
"Do you bake a lot?" Edward asks as he peels an apple. I glance over at him again, but his eyes remain on the apple.
"Not too, too much, but I do enjoy baking when I get the chance. Jasper likes to say that I bake my feelings. I tend to bake when I'm sad or mad. I baked a lot when I first moved in here but not so much recently," I ramble.
"My mother bakes all the time. I never quite got the hang of it, though. If I made cookies, they'd either come out too salty or without much flavor."
"Maybe I should reconsider letting you help," I tease and he flashes a smile at me.
"I find it hard to believe I can mess this up by peeling apples," he jokes.
"You better hope not. If this crisp isn't up to Rose's standards, I'm blaming it on you."
"Thanks," he laughs. "I've only met the woman once and she's going to hate me because of my lack of baking skills."
"That's just something you'll have to live with," I smile, shrugging. Setting aside the bowl with the crisp in it, I grab a cutting board and knife. I take one of the apples Edward has peeled and begin slicing thin pieces of apple. Edward and I work in silence until he's finished peeling the apples. He leans his forearms against the counter and watches me slice the apples. As I'm reaching for another apple, Edward swipes an apple slice, popping it into his mouth.
"Hey," I laugh. "This is an exact science. I'm not going to have enough apples now." I give him a jokingly disapproving look and he grins at me.
"Sorry, someone had to eat a slice while it was still healthy," he jokes back. I shake my head and continue slicing the apples. Once they're all sliced, I place them into a bowl and add the sugar and cinnamon, tossing it together. I pour it into a baking dish sprinkle the crisp across the top.
"Alright, now it bakes for an hour," I say and slide it into the oven, setting the timer on the stove. I lean against the counter, facing Edward, and take a drink of my beer.
"That was easy," Edward notes and I roll my eyes.
"All you did was peel the apples," I laugh.
"A thank you would be nice," he grins.
"Thank you for your help," I smile. I put my beer down and go to the sink to start cleaning the dishes. Edward grabs a towel and leans against the counter, waiting to dry the dishes. I can't help but smile at the small gesture, not used to it. I did all the housework, especially in the kitchen, when I lived with James. I wouldn't even dream of asking him to help me because it would have just caused a fight. I clean the first bowl, lost in my own thoughts, scrubbing to make sure I get all the crisp cleaned off it.
"I think it's clean," Edward says, breaking my thoughts as he gently tugs the bowl out of my hands, rinsing it off. I jump, startled, as he does so. "Shit, sorry, Bella," he frowns. I shake my head and look at him, giving him a small smile.
"It's okay, I promise. I just got lost in my thoughts," I assure him.
"What're you thinking about?" he asks, shock briefly taking over his face as if he didn't expect to ask that. I look at him for a moment, wondering how much I can keep telling him about my past without having him walk away. I know we're just friends, but one person can only handle so much drama, right?
"I was just thinking that it's nice that you're helping me. James," I start, shaking my head and frowning. "James wouldn't help even if I asked. It's just nice to have someone willing to help without me having to ask." I glance down as I grab the next bowl, pouring some soap into it before grabbing my sponge to clean it. Edward's gaze bores into the side of my face, making my cheeks flush.
"You deserve better than what he gave you," Edward says, his voice so low that I'm not sure if I actually heard him correctly. I look up at him and his stare is intense, making my breath hitch in my throat. The way he's looking at me makes me feel things I haven't felt in years. There's a certain lust behind the intensity that makes me feel like he has a gravitational pull and before I know it, I'm leaning closer to him, forgetting about the dishes that need cleaning.
His gaze flickers down to my lips before coming back up to my eyes. I can feel my breathing become labored at the thought of him wanting to kiss me. He didn't want the other women, so why would he want to kiss me?
The front door opens and Rufus starts barking happily, causing both Edward and I to jump away from each other. I quickly glance back down at the bowl, continuing my cleaning, my cheeks no doubt a bright pink. Jasper walks into the kitchen a few moments later with Rufus right behind him.
"Hey, man," Jasper greets Edward, going to the fridge to grab a beer for himself.
"Hey, Jasper, how's it going?" Edward asks, sounding completely normal. I look up at him and it's like nothing even almost happened between us. He's completely composed while I'm still trying to control my racing heart and the heat in my cheeks. I rinse off the bowl and hand it to him.
"Pretty good. What brings you over?" Jasper asks as he pops the top off his beer.
"Bella and I ran into each other in the grocery store and she invited me over for a drink while she baked."
"You really are stealing Emmett's friend, aren't you?" Jasper jokes to me.
"Shut up!" I whine. "I'm not stealing Edward. I can't help it that I'm a better friend than Emmett."
"Oh, I may have to consult Edward on that one," Jasper chuckles, looking over at Edward.
"Bella doesn't make me bust my ass at the gym," Edward chuckles. "I think Emmett's secretly trying to kill me with our workouts."
"See, I am a better friend," I defend, sticking my tongue out at Jasper.
"You've been hanging out with high schoolers too long," Jasper laughs and I grin, shaking my head. Jasper turns his attention to Edward. "You have any plans tonight?" he asks and Edward shakes his head. "You should come to dinner with us. If you thought dinner at Emmett's house was a riot, you'll have to see how it is with our parents in the mix."
"I wouldn't want to impose," Edward shakes his head, frowning a bit.
"You wouldn't be imposing," I insist. "Mom always makes way too much food because you never know how much Emmett is going to eat. Plus, they enjoy the company. But it's up to you whether or not you think you can handle the whole Swan family for an evening," I tease.
"I guess I'll have to see if I can," he laughs. "Count me in."
"I'll go call Mom and let her know," Jasper says as he walks out of the kitchen. The air in the room becomes a bit more intense as he leaves Edward and I alone. I'm nervous, but not in the way I would have been nervous with James. This is a nervous feeling coming from the anticipation of what's going to happen between us. I look over at Edward and he's already looking at me. The look in his eyes is different from before, though. There's still that tinge of lust but it also seems like he's starting to feel doubt. It seems like he's having an internal battle or something.
"Thank you for your help," I say again, motioning towards the dry dishes.
"It's not a problem, this was fun," he says, a small smile on his lips.
"Yeah, it was," I agree, returning his smile. Jasper comes back into the kitchen, slipping his phone into his back pocket.
"Mom's thrilled to have more company over," Jasper announces. "She sounded like she was jumping in excitement."
"You sure you're ready to meet my Mom?" I ask Edward jokingly. "She's kind of a handful."
"I think I can manage," Edward chuckles.
"I'm going to turn the game on. We're playing Utah, it should be a good game," Jasper says to Edward. "We've got some time before we have to head over for dinner."
"I'll come join you," Edward grins, grabbing his beer and following Jasper into the living room. Before he leaves the kitchen, he glances back at me, giving me a smile. I smile back at him and grab my beer, deciding to follow.
Jasper drops down into the lounger, propping his feet up on the ottoman in front of it. Edward makes himself comfortable in the middle of the couch, giving me the option to sit on either side of him. I sit to his left, pulling my legs up and bending them beside me so I'm leaning against the back of the couch and slightly towards Edward. That electric hum is still present and I can't help but wonder if he feels it too. I can feel it radiating through my body while I try to at least look like I'm paying attention to the game.
To be honest, I have little to no interest in basketball. Jasper's tried and tried to get me to enjoy the sport but I much prefer baseball or football. Giving up trying to pay attention, I pull my phone out of my pocket and go into my text conversation with Rose.
Edward's coming to dinner tonight. Bets on which parent is going to scare him off? – B
I smile as I slip my phone under my thigh as I wait for Rose's reply. I turn back to the game, taking a swig of beer as I do, and try to figure out what's going on.
"You look confused," Edward laughs, his voice low enough against the volume of the television that I'm sure it was just meant for me to hear. I look over at him and his whole face is lit up with humor.
"I happen to know exactly what's going on, thank you," I say stubbornly, turning my attention back to the TV.
"Okay, then tell me what just happened," he challenges, calling out my bluff without even the slightest hesitation. I turn to look at him again and give him a glare that just eggs him on further. "Unless you can't, that is." I look at the TV to see if I can decipher what's going on.
"That guy has the ball," I say dumbly and Edward erupts in laughter. Jasper looks over at us, taking in my pouting and Edward's laughter.
"Indeed he does," Edward chokes out.
"Is she trying to ask basketball questions again?" Jasper chuckles and I shoot him a glare.
"No, she told me she understands what's going on in the game and when I asked her to prove it she told me that guy has the ball," Edward explains, still laughing, making Jasper join in with him.
"You two are the worst," I grumble, taking a large swig of my beer and pulling my phone out from under my lap. I scroll through my Facebook, completely ignoring the game and the laughing men. There's nothing good on social media either, apparently, because my feed is filled with a whole lot of pointless status updates. Like, why do I want to know that Jessica just got a manicure? And why is Angela so comfortable sharing an article about the ten best positions for a mind-blowing orgasm?
A banner drops down from the top of my screen, notifying me I have a text from Rose. I click on the banner to pull up the text thread.
Definitely Mom. She's going to say something to embarrass him and us at some point during dinner. – R
I snicker at Rose's response and Edward glances over at me. I exit out of the text thread and turn off my phone screen.
"I need to go check on the apple crisp," I say as I stand up, sliding my phone into my pocket and leaving the living room. I walk over to the oven and open the door. The dessert bubbles in the dish, the crisp part looking like it's done. I take it out of the oven and set it on the stovetop to cool. As I turn the oven off, I hear footsteps behind me. Turning, I see Jasper come into the kitchen, heading for the fridge.
"You want another beer, Bells?" Jasper asks.
"No, thanks," I shake my head. He grabs two beers in his hand and stands up, glancing at me. I can tell he wants to say something but he's hesitant.
"You okay?" he asks after a moment, popping the tops off the beers.
"Yeah, why?" I ask, furrowing my eyebrows.
"When I walked in here earlier your face was really red and Edward just looked," he starts, pausing to find the word he wants to use. "Smug, I guess," he finishes.
"Oh, yeah, no, I'm okay. We were just baking," I say lamely as I motion towards the apple crisp. Jasper studies my face for a moment before accepting my answer with a small smile. Without another word, he turns and walks back out to the living room.
I make my way upstairs to my room, quietly closing my door, before pulling my phone out of my pocket and dialing Rose's number.
"Hey, what's up?" Rose answers.
"Edward and I almost kissed," I whispered into the phone even though I know for a fact they won't be able to hear me if I talk normally.
"What?" she asks, her voice an octave higher in disbelief.
"You heard me! We were cleaning dishes because he helped me bake the apple crisp and we just," I stop there, getting too flustered remembering what had almost happened in the kitchen.
"Do you like him?" she asks.
"No, yes? No?" I groan, dropping onto my bed. "I'm definitely not ready for a relationship," I sigh defeatedly.
"Maybe you should refrain from baking with him for now," she supplies and I roll my eyes. "What stopped you two?"
"Jasper walked in before we could. And then he invited Edward for dinner," I groan again. "It's so weird because being around him is," I add on, not knowing how to explain this without sounding stupid. "It's addicting?" I don't sound too confident in the word but it's the best one I have.
"I know the feeling," Rose empathizes. "That's how I feel with Emmett."
"Don't say that," I whine. "This can't be like you and Emmett."
"I'm just saying I know the feeling," she defends lightly.
"I'm going to Port Angeles with him sometime over the next week," I throw out.
"What? Really?" she asks.
"Yeah, he has to get a present for him nephew and I didn't really think about it before saying yes. I mean, I want to go but what if that happens again?" I chew on my lip nervously as Rose thinks of what to say.
"Just make it known that you can only be his friend," she supplies. "There's really nothing else you can do apart from give him the cold shoulder, which isn't your style."
"I guess," I mumble around my lip.
"Everything will work out," she consoles. "I'll see you in a bit, okay?"
"Yeah, see you in a bit." I hang up the phone and open my door, making my way back downstairs.
"You two ready to go?" I ask as I walk into the living room. Edward finishes the last of his beer as Jasper turns the TV off. The both of them stand as I walk into the kitchen to get the dessert. Using pot holders, I place it in a cloth bag so it's easier to transport. I meet the guys in the front hallway and follow them outside.
"I can drive," I offer, earning a groan from Jasper.
"No way in hell," he answers. "I'm driving." I roll my eyes but get in the back of Jasper's truck.
"You know, you've had two beers. Your father is the chief of police and you're going to be driving after drinking?" I argue, although I know two beers isn't even close to enough alcohol to impair Jasper's driving.
"Even if I had five beers, I'd still get us there safer than that truck of yours," he defends, glancing at me in the rearview mirror. I cross my arms and look out the window, knowing very well that I'm pouting.
"My truck is reliable," I mumble. "Edward even said it would win in a fight against a tree."
"Don't bring me into this," Edward laughs, holding his hands up. "I also said don't go testing that theory."
"You're supposed to be on my side, jerk," I frown, earning a laugh from Edward.
"I'm not taking sides in this," he chuckles.
"Some friend you are," I mumble. Before the dispute can make it any further, Jasper parks in Mom and Dad's driveway next to Emmett's 4Runner. I grab the bag with the apple crisp and go to open my door but Edward beats me to it. He holds the door as I climb out of the car and I offer him a thankful smile.
"You sure you're ready for this?" I ask jokingly and he smiles a bit nervously at me.
"It is really going to be that bad?" he asks.
"Guess you'll have to come in and see for yourself," I tease as I walk past him. He hesitates a second before following me. Jasper's already at the door walking into the house. As I walk up the steps, I can hear Mom complaining about her "Rufy" not being here. I glance back at Edward as we make our way inside. He definitely looks more nervous than I've seen him before. This should be fun.
"I'll bring him next week," Jasper assures my mom, laughing. I walk into the kitchen with Edward in tow and Mom averts her attention to us.
"Hi, Honey!" she smiles, giving me a hug as if she didn't just see me last week.
"Hi, Mom," I smile, giving her a one-armed hug because of the apple crisp in the other hand. When she pulls away, she looks over at Edward.
"You must be Edward!" she grins. "No one told me you'd be this handsome!" she adds as she hugs him. I laugh, looking over at this shocked expression as he hesitantly pats her back. She pulls away and looks back at me. "You would've told me how attractive he was if you had called to tell me he was coming, right?" she asks expectantly.
"Mom," I laugh, blush filling my cheeks. "I don't think how attractive he is matters. You're married," I point out, glancing at my dad, who's just shaking his head. Mom turns back to Edward, looking at him as if she's inspecting him. "Edward, this is my mom, Renee," I add when she gives no sign of introducing herself. Before I can think to stop her, she begins to question him.
"Have you ever modeled for anyone?" she asks and Edward's eyes widen even further, his head shaking hesitantly. "My class would just love to have someone like you model for them," she muses, pursing her lips, still inspecting.
"Ma, don't forget what I told you about scaring him off," Emmett whines as he comes into the kitchen. He turns his apologetic glance to Edward before adding, "Mom's in a painting class."
"Oh, Emmett, I'm not scaring him off, right, Edward?" she asks, bringing her eyes back up to his face.
"Uh, yeah, right," he sputters. Dad grabs a beer out of the fridge and hands it to Edward.
"You may need this, Son," he explains. Edward smiles a bit and takes the beer, thanking my dad.
"Mom, how about we go check on dinner? Let the guys go out to the living room?" Rose asks from the kitchen doorway.
"Take this as your cue to run," I giggle to Edward. He shoots me a playful glare but follows Emmett and Jasper out of the kitchen. Dad grabs a few more beers before following them.
"Jeez, Mom," I laugh as I walk over to set the apple crisp on the counter. "Remind us to never bring friends over again."
"Oh, he'll be fine," she assures me with a wave of her hand. "You have to appreciate beauty where you find it." I give Rose a look and she giggles, making Mom turn to face me. "What are you doing?" she asks wearily.
"I have no idea what you're talking about," I insist with a smile. "What'd you make for dinner?" I ask, hoping the subject change will distract her.
"I have a pot roast in the oven with some carrots and potatoes. I also have some rolls and pasta cooking on the stove to go with it." She makes her way across the kitchen, checking on the pot roast. "It looks pretty done to me," she announces as she pulls it out of the oven. "We'll just let it rest until the pasta is ready."
"So, tomorrow's the big day, huh?" Mom says to me. I fight to roll my eyes before looking at her.
"I wouldn't call it a big day, but yeah tomorrow's the day," I answer with a slight frown. "It's not like this is my first time going."
"No, but it's your first time going since James has been released," Rose points out and I nod. "Plus, it sounds like you have other things to talk about," she adds and I shoot a disbelieving glare her way.
"Other things? What other things?" Mom asks. I'm about to yell at Rose for opening her big mouth when she starts to speak.
"Bella has been having some trouble with her students so I figured it may help to talk to Dr. Greene about it."
"Oh, right," Mom says, as if she's relieved to be back in the know. "You told us about that last week." I nod and look over at Rose, who just smiles at me in return. Mom turns her attention back to the stove, deciding that the noodles are finished. "Bella, can you go get the guys?" she asks. I leave the room, heading towards the living room. Edward looks much more relaxed being around the guys than he did being in the kitchen. They're laughing about something and even Dad is joined in the mixture.
"Dinner's ready," I call as the laughter dies down. The guys get up and head back to the kitchen and I wait for Edward.
"You surviving so far?" I tease as we walk, earning a chuckle from him.
"Yeah, I'm surviving," he admits. He follows me to the table, sitting to my left. His arm brushes mine as he sits, reigniting that electric hum. I shift a little in my chair and Rose's eyes catch mine. She gives me a knowing smirk and playfully roll my eyes at her.
Mom sets the roast on the table and we all start our usual food passing ritual, only this time including Edward. He looks slightly overwhelmed by the chaos that has ensued at our table but manages to keep up with the groove of our food passing.
"You ready for our training session Friday?" Emmett asks Edward after a few minutes. Edward scrunches his nose, finishing his bite of food before answering.
"You and I have to have a chat about our training," he answers jokingly. "You're kicking my ass. You do realize I need to function after our sessions, right?"
"Hey, I only dish out what you can take," Emmett defends with a dimpled grin.
"Maybe you can dish out a little less," Edward chuckles.
"Oh, my class will really love," Mom starts but Rose and I cut her off.
"No more talk of Edward modeling," I insist. "The point is not to scare our friend off." Mom looks dejected but doesn't argue with me.
"Edward got to see firsthand today how awful Bella is at watching basketball." Emmett's laughter radiates through the room and I fight to roll my eyes.
"Turn on baseball or football and I'm all for it, Jas, you know that. Basketball isn't my favorite."
"I actually played baseball in high school," Edward says.
"Jasper and Emmett played football," Mom adds in. "Bella and Rose were cheerleaders." Edward turns to look at me, his face filled with playfulness and I know he was about to tease me.
"You were a cheerleader?" he asks in disbelief. "You told me you were always clumsy," he laughs.
"I was but for some reason I was able to cheer. I was even a flyer," I say, before adding on, "you know, the ones that get thrown into the air?" I was pretty damn good at it, too. Not once did I ever injure myself or anyone else.
"You let people throw you in the air knowing you were clumsy?" he asks, still disbelieving.
"She was the best on the team, aside from me," Rose grins at me.
"Rose was the cheer captain. She was undoubtedly the best on our team." I look over at Edward to see him still looking at me. He shakes his head, smiling, before looking away.
"Who's up for dessert?" Mom asks as she starts gathering our empty dishes. I get up from my chair to grab the apple crisp from the counter.
"Oh shoot," I frown. "I forgot to pick up ice cream today."
"We should have some in the freezer, Honey," Mom says. "It won't be vanilla but we'll at least have some." I walk over and check the freezer to find a half gallon of mint chip ice cream.
"Anyone interested in mint chip with their apple crisp?" I ask, surveying the table. No one gives me an affirmative, so I put it back.
"Dessert is completely ruined without the vanilla ice cream," Emmett jokes dramatically. I roll my eyes as I pick up the apple crisp and head back to the table.
"You'll just have to deal with it, Em," I say as I set the dessert on the table. Mom brings over a spoon and small plates and I start dishing out the dessert, handing it off to everyone except for Emmett.
"Hey!" he protests. "You forgot the most important person, here!"
"Oh, I'm sorry, I thought dessert was ruined for you," I say pointedly.
"That doesn't mean I'm not going to eat it," he whines. I grin and scoop some apple crisp onto a plate for Emmett.
"Just a disclaimer, if this dessert isn't perfect, it's Edward's fault," I announce.
"No way, I barely did anything," he laughs.
"You did just enough to where if it's messed up, it's your fault," I tease him as I sit back in my seat. Rose takes a bite of her dessert and lets out an audible moan, quickly shoving another bite in her mouth.
"I'm taking the credit for it being delicious," Edward tells me.
"No, that's not how this works," I laugh, taking my own bite of dessert.
"You're not taking credit for it because only I can make Rosie moan like that," Emmett says, earning a smack to the back of his head from Rose.
"We're having dinner with your family, you idiot," she scolds him.
"Rose, we all know you two aren't celibate," Mom says. "It's perfectly natural to talk about your sex life."
"Mom!" Rose and I shout at the same time as Dad yells, "Renee!" Emmett is busting at the seams with laughter and Jasper looks like he's just seen a ghost. Edward looks like he doesn't know whether to be horrified or humored by this exchange.
"What? I'm just saying. Your father and I," she starts but Jasper finally finds his voice.
"No! Change the topic, please!" he groans.
"We have company over, Renee," Dad says sternly.
"I'm sure Edward doesn't mind, right?" Mom says, turning to him.
"Your children mind," I answer for Edward. "We don't need to hear about," I start but shake my head, shuddering at the thought.
"Fine," Mom huffs, her attention still on Edward. "So, Edward, what do you do for a living?"
"I'm a pediatrician," Edward says, swallowing his uneasiness. "I work out in Clearwater."
"That's quite the commute," Mom notes, earning a shrug from Edward.
"I'm used to it at this point. It's not too bad."
"What made you choose medicine?" Dad asks. Edward turns to him and there's a look in his eyes that I can't decipher. It's not a bad look, but it's one I haven't seen yet.
"My father's a surgeon. I guess I kind of just wanted to follow in his footsteps," he explains, shrugging again. Dad nods, turning back to his apple crisp.
"Did you grow up around here, Edward?" Mom asks. I glance at Rose to see she's smirking, her eyes meeting mine. It seems like our parents are taking turns harassing Edward.
"I did, my parents live just outside of town. I went to school in La Push, though."
"I go fishing out in La Push," Dad notes. "Do you know the Blacks?"
"Yeah, I used to be friends with Jacob Black," Edward nods.
"Really?" I ask. "He used to come over here all the time while our dads went fishing."
"Yeah, we were on the baseball team together," Edward says, glancing over at me. "He told me I was an idiot for wanting to go to Alaska for school," he adds, chuckling.
"I mean, was he wrong?" I tease and Edward gives me a surprised look before laughing.
"No, he wasn't," he admits.
"You went all the way to Alaska for school?" Mom asks, bewildered.
"Yeah, I followed my girlfriend there," he says, his face scrunching a bit in distaste. "It didn't work out between us but I lived there for about ten years."
"How was it living there?"
"Definitely different from living here," he supplies. "It wasn't bad, but I much prefer Washington."
"I've always wanted to move out of state," Mom admits longingly.
"What?" Dad asks, scrunching his brow.
"What? Don't you want to see the world, Charlie? At least Jasper moved out of state for a few years."
"I moved out for college, it's not like I was off seeing the world," Jasper chuckles.
"Renee, when I retire, we'll go see the world or whatever," Dad offers dismissively.
"Yeah, and when will that be?" I joke. Dad's not a workaholic, but he's definitely dedicated to his work. There were many weekends we wouldn't see him until late in the afternoon because he was catching up on work he couldn't get done during the week. He busts his ass for his precinct, which, I guess, is why he's chief of police. Dad chuckles at me and shakes his head.
"I have to get to work early tomorrow," Jasper starts, looking over at Edward and me. "We should probably get going."
"Yeah, I need to start grading these exams," I admit, not hiding my distaste. I stand and start gathering plates and spoons. Once I have everyone's I take the spoons to the sink and dispose of the plates in the trash.
"We should go too, babe," Rose says as she stands, rubbing Emmett's shoulders as she does.
"Thank you for having me for dinner," Edward says as he stands. "It was nice to meet you, Renee," he smiles.
"Oh, did you hear that, Charlie? It was nice to meet me, not you," Mom teases and Edward's cheeks flush a bit.
"The boy's already met me, Renee," Dad says, rolling his eyes. "I ran into him and Bella at the diner last weekend."
"When you went for breakfast?" she asks before turning to me. "You were there that early?"
"Dad, you can explain that to Mom, we're out of here," I say, giving him an innocent smile. She turns back to Dad as he shakes his head.
We all say our goodbyes and head outside to the driveway. Mom and Dad stand at the doorway as we make our way into our trucks, not going inside until we drive off.
"So, you survived," I laugh at Edward.
"I'm surprised, Mom was on a roll tonight," Jasper groans, shaking his head. "Sorry about her, she gets a bit carried away."
"I think she embarrassed you two more than she did me," Edward laughs.
"Oh no, you were blushing quite a bit tonight," I accuse.
"I don't blush," Edward laughs, turning to look at me. "And how would you know?"
"I'm observant," I say, rolling my eyes.
Jasper pulls into the driveway and we pile out of his truck. Jasper offers a goodbye to Edward before making his way into the house to let Rufus out into the backyard. I look over at Edward to find he's already looking at me.
"This afternoon was fun, thank you for including me," he smiles.
"Thanks for keeping me company," I smile back. "I'm not very good at being alone lately," I admit before I can stop myself. Warmth fills my cheeks and I feel like my face is going to be a constant shade of pink while Edward's around.
"Well, if you ever need anyone to keep you company, you have my number," he offers. "I'll let you get to grading," he adds on and I groan.
"Grading is the worst part of teaching," I grumble. I step forward and give Edward a hug. I think it catches him off guard because it takes a second for him to hug me back. When he does, that electric hum seems to intensify even more, making it difficult to think about letting him go. I do, though, before the hug carries on for too long, and take a step back.
"Have a good night, Bella," Edward smiles at me before walking over to his bike.
"You too," I smile back before heading inside. Edward waits until I'm in the house before starting up his bike and driving off.
As I lock the door, I take a deep breath, realizing that I'm in way over my head with Edward. It's only been three months since everything ended with James and I'm already crushing on someone new. This can't be normal, can it?
Hello my lovelies!
Again, thank you for being patient with me while I wrote this chapter! On the plus side, it's a long one! I think it's the longest one I've written yet!
Let me know what you think of this chapter in the reviews!
Until next time,
Twilight What?