A/N: Hi! Sorry for the long A/N ahead but it's important.

This was an entry for the Twilight Tricks and Treats Contest and won First Place Public Vote as well as The Killer Thriller Award. Halloween is my favorite holiday and that contest has been one of my favorites for years, so it's such an honor to have been a part of it. I am in genuine shock and really hadn't thought I would win anything, so thank you a million times to everyone that read this and voted. I really like spooky things and that's a big reason why I started writing on here, to share some darker stuff with this fandom. I love when I find others that enjoy dark, twisted stories as well.

I'd like to thank my two dark, dirty, lovely ladies in this fandom that have been there for me for many things, have spent hours chatting with me, held my hand, and helped A LOT with this story. They fill my dark little heart. Cullenlvr83 and DawnBreaker8, love you both lots, and thank you for your support, it means so much.

Lastly, if this is your first time reading this then you're fine, but if you've already read this, this version is slightly different than the contest entry. I take a really long time to write and dread deadlines and I had a word limit to this, so I didn't write it exactly how I wanted to. This version is edited better, I've added some stuff and a new, smutty scene. Let me know what you think, but please no bashing. You are more than warned below, so if it's not for you, kindly click the red x and find another story you'll like better! :)

WARNING: THIS IS DARK. Like pitch black. It's a Halloween fic and not a sweet one—well depending on how you look at it. I won't give anything away but if you have triggers or questions, PM me. But everything is consensual. It's a long, wild ride so strap in.

This was not beta'ed so any mistakes are my own.

Standard disclaimer: The author does not own any publicly recognizable entities herein. No copyright infringement is intended.

ANIMAL I HAVE BECOME

I can't escape this hell

So many times I've tried

But I'm still caged inside

Somebody get me through this nightmare

I can't control myself

So what if you can see the darkest side of me

No one will ever change this animal I have become

Help me believe it's not the real me

Somebody help me tame this animal

I can't escape myself

So many times I've lied

But there's still rage inside

-Three Days Grace

Ugh. I've had such a long and exhausting day at work. Luckily, I still got off an hour earlier than I expected. I can't wait to take off these stifling work clothes, take a warm bath and have the most mind-blowing sex with my breathtakingly gorgeous husband. Then just lay naked in bed with him, forgetting about all my stress and pushing my problems to the back of my mind.

I drive up our lengthy driveway, bordered by forestry. The delicate burnt orange and crimson red leaves litter the muddy ground. Our home is a secluded cottage-like cabin an hour away from the city. It's nestled in the middle of the woods, and our closest neighbors are half a mile away. Our real neighbors mainly consist of harmless, little critters and larger animals that are timid and hide from us. We enjoy the isolation and solitude here. Nobody is in our business; we're surrounded by mother nature and far away from the annoyance of many people. We're introverts and prefer our peace and quiet—we're homebodies and only need each other's company.

It's late October and darker outside much earlier now. It's eight at night, and the dim moonlight and the cool Autumn air is relaxing once I get out of my old truck and head towards the front door.

Home sweet home.

A smile overtakes my face at the thought of seeing Edward; I miss him so much while I'm at work and can't stop thinking about him. His captivating eyes are the same shade of forest green we're surrounded by, which are slightly haunted and guarded with secrets, but only warm and open to me. His rusty, copper hair reminds me of the leaves changing color during my favorite season. The sharp structure of his straight nose, chiseled jawline, and high carved cheekbones are achingly striking and complement his perfect, plump, pink lips. Just admiring his beauty can ease all the tension from my body.

My smile drops when I search the entire house, and Edward's nowhere to be found. Where is he? His car is in the driveway, so he should be home, and he would let me know if he was out—which he barely leaves anyway.

I grab my cell phone from my purse and head towards the kitchen. As I'm about to sit down at the table and call him, a shadow through the door in the kitchen that leads to the backyard captures my attention.

It's dark and hard to make out, but there's definitely a figure out there.

Relief replaces fear when I realize it's Edward. I doubt it could be anyone else, considering we're in the middle of nowhere, and no one would make it out here without a car. But why is Edward out there at this time, and what could he possibly be doing in the dark?

I get up and slowly walk closer to the door, trying to make out what he's doing. I see his large, solid, muscular form as he maniacally raises a shovel over his head in a quick motion. It looks like he is covering a hole in the ground with dirt. What the hell would he be burying? A weird feeling fills my chest.

"Edward, what are you doing out there?" I creak the door open and call out loudly enough so he can hear me.

I catch him off guard. He freezes, his shoulders stiff before he slightly turns around, shielding the hole with his body. With the glow of the full moon being the only light that shines on him, it gives him an ominous, eerie, yet enchanting presence.

"Oh, um... I'm almost done, sweetheart. I'll be there in a bit." His voice is strained from the exertion.

I close the door and head towards the fridge to grab some dinner that Edward made for us. It's like he knew I had a challenging day at work; he made my favorite meal. After a few years of marriage, I still can't get over how lucky I am that he's mine.

About ten minutes later, once the food is heated, Edward comes inside. My breath catches in my throat when I turn around and see what he looks like. He's rough and disheveled, his hair a chaotic mess covered with dirt, clothing tattered, and streaks of blood on his face and hands. "You're home earlier than I thought you would be."

My heart races, and my blood freezes cold. I ignore his statement and rush towards him, softly tracing my hands over his body, checking for any wounds. "Babe, fuck! What happened? Are you okay?" I shriek in panic.

Edward's hands cover mine as he holds them both to his chest. "I'm fine, don't worry," he reassures. "I found a dead fawn in our backyard, so I thought it'd be nice to give him a proper burial rather than just leave him out there to become another animal's dinner." He gives me one of his dazzling crooked smiles that melts me.

My heart warms, and butterflies flutter in my stomach at the gentle, kind man I've married who wouldn't even hurt an animal. What did I do to deserve a man like this? Now that I know he's not injured, I take in how ruggedly handsome he looks with his flannel and ripped jeans shaping his burly form and his thick groomed beard. I love when he grows in his beard and the painfully pleasurable way it scratches and bruises my skin when he kisses me all over.

I lean towards Edward and ignore the smell of rotting flesh that surrounds him. I brush my lips against his, giving him a faint kiss without breaking eye contact. "Aw, that's sad, but you are the sweetest man in the world, babe. I'm so lucky to be married to you." I run my hands through his matted, sweaty hair as his bulging arms wrap around my waist, pushing me further into his built chest.

"I'm the lucky one, and I'm not that sweet, baby." His tone lowers. There's something unusual I can't read in his eyes. A predatory and primal glint as he grabs me and slams my back against the wall, devouring my mouth and tangling our tongues. Edward catches me off guard and lifts me, forcing me to wrap my legs around his waist as he pushes my dress up. I hear the sound of his belt buckle coming undone, and his fingers stroke along my soaked pussy, sliding my panties to the side. He's rough and needy. We both moan into each other's mouths as his thumb frantically rubs my clit—to the point that it's almost uncomfortable. It's too much.

As much as I'm desperate to feel his thick cock inside me, and I never refuse it, something doesn't feel right. I feel specks of dirt on his beard as it scratches against my sensitive skin and the smell overwhelms me—and not in a good way. Even though he always turns me on, the smell of death isn't appealing. "Mhmm. Edward, as much as I love you and want you so bad," I mutter between kisses, "you smell like roadkill. How about you clean up, and I'll wait for you in our room?"

Edward groans and reluctantly pulls away, letting me down. "You better be ready for me when I'm out of the shower, baby. I'm really fucking horny tonight, and it's not gonna be soft or sweet." He gives me an evil, dirty smirk.

Those words send a rush of excitement through me. I love it when he loses control and throws me around like his own personal toy. "Good, I don't want you to be. I'm all yours tonight." I grin back at him.

"You're always mine," he growls. "Be careful what you wish for, Bella. I'm gonna fuck you so hard until you're begging me to stop." I squeal as Edward smacks my ass and runs up the stairs as if it's a race.

I'm so in love with him, even more when he unleashes his monster and hunts me like his prey.

Looks like I'm gonna be in for a wild ride tonight, and I can't wait.

~AIHB~

Ever since the night that Edward buried the fawn, he's been acting stranger than usual. He's out more than he used to be, coming home late, considering he barely left the house before unless it was for work or to run some errands.

I've found weird items in his car, like gloves, duct tape, ropes—and not the ones he uses on me when we get kinky in the bedroom—much more heavy-duty ones. Some of his dirty clothes have the faint scent of perfume and not the ones I wear. I've also found some pieces of burnt garments in the firepit, out in the back.

I'm really trying not to jump to conclusions. Edward's never given me a reason to doubt him and has always been so loyal and honest—a perfect husband. But I can't control my insecurities and the voice in my head, making me think the worst.

He's also been a little more dominating and sadistic in bed lately, although that is one thing I'm not complaining about, and it doesn't bother me at all. I've always loved when I make him so crazy with need that he can't help but unleash the wild animal inside of him and lose control. We bring out the darker, kinkier side in each other, and we don't have many limits considering we have complete trust in each other.

"Edward's been acting strange lately." I take a sip of my coffee before setting it down on the table. I'm at a coffee shop with Alice, my best friend and the only person I've kept in touch with since high school. Other than Edward, she's the only one I confide to—well, most things at least.

"Well, let's be honest... Edward has always been a bit odd, but you are too. That's why you've always been a great match," Alice teases, her sapphire blue eyes sparkling.

She's not wrong. I was an outcast in school—a goth kid, with my long black hair, edgy black clothing, dark nails and make-up. I didn't have many friends, was very quiet and painfully shy, and kept to myself—I guess that was enough to classify me as a freak.

I was shocked when preppy, cute and chirpy Alice wanted to be my friend on that first day of freshman year. According to her, she thought I was badass. I admired how she didn't care what other people thought about her hanging out with me. She has stayed by my side and has always had my back ever since.

Edward may not have been as much of a freak as I was, but he wasn't the most popular either. He was introverted as well, and our eccentric, strange souls connected and bonded ever since the first day we met in Sophomore year when he moved to my town. The moment his dark, bewitching eyes caught mine, they dominated and claimed me. Behind his gentle, shy smile, I could see a darkness in him, buried deep, one similar to mine. We were able to lower our guards and only let each other in. Even then, we couldn't deny the impalpable connection we had—some other force pulling us together.

Although it made him more of an outcast being associated with me, that didn't stop people from admiring his good looks. Even though they would cover it up by saying they would stare because he was weird. Even if someone is crazy, you can't deny if they're attractive.

I may not look the same as I did in high school—more formal and acceptable now—but I guess I'm still somewhat of an oddball—which I have never felt prouder of ever since I found my other crazy half. That's why if Edward is being dishonest and doing anything that would break me, I don't think I can handle it. He's the only one that keeps me together and keeps me sane—I'd be nothing without him.

"I'm trying to be serious, Alice." I chuckle, appreciating her trying to lighten the mood, but I need her advice.

"Ok, I'm sorry, fine. So, what is Edward doing that's weirder than usual?" She's failing at trying to keep the smirk off her face.

I fidget with the sugar packet, worry and doubt etched on my face. "He's been coming home late some nights, telling me he stayed late at the bar, doing yard work, or hanging with some friends. I know he's lying because he only has like two friends, and when I called them, looking for him, they said they hadn't heard from him in months. You know Edward barely goes out and talks with people. Sometimes, I wake up in the middle of the night, and he's not in bed with me." I sigh.

Alice's smile falls, and her brows furrow in concern. "Have you confronted him?"

"No. I tried a few times, but I chickened out. He seems to be a little erratic and manic lately, like his thoughts are all over the place, and he's all paranoid. He's acting suspicious, like he's hiding something, and has a short fuse. It freaks me out sometimes."

I'm not going to tell her how wild, dirty and primal the sex has been lately, though.

Alice reaches across the table, grasping onto my cold, slightly trembling hands. "Bella, has he hurt you or put his hands on you? I know you love him, but you need to tell me if he has." She narrows her eyes, and her tone is laced with worry.

Not in a way that I haven't enjoyed or craved.

The last thing I want is for her to think Edward's abusive—maybe this was a bad idea. I shake my head fiercely. "No, I promise he hasn't. He's not violent, and we barely fight. He would never do that. Things have just seemed different lately, maybe it's just me and I'm overreacting." I try to brush off my anxiety with a forced laugh.

With her gaze fixed on me, Alice smiles back. Hers is more genuine than mine. "You just need to talk to him, sweetie. Maybe he's struggling with something and is afraid to tell you because he doesn't want to stress you out. You've always been pretty good at communicating with each other, and he's always put your needs first."

"You're right." I pause and take a deep breath, staring a hole into the table. I try to force up the courage to express my main concern. I don't want to have these words leave my mouth, being my biggest fear, but I have to. "Do you think he's cheating on me?" I glance up at her nervously.

Alice stares at me hesitantly for a moment before answering. "I don't know, Bella, but I can't see Edward cheating on you. Like you said, he can barely stand anyone else. He never gives attention to any other person in the room, his eyes are always focused only on you. He's so obsessed and in love with you. I always envied and admired how intense your love was. You could feel the energy radiating from both of you the second you met, " she confesses.

"Just talk to him, ok? You've been together for ten years, you know each other inside and out. You both are too strong and devoted to give up and have issues. And if anything else seems suspicious, I promise I'll help you get to the bottom of this. If things become too much, you know my door is always open. I'll always be here for you." Alice squeezes my hand one last time with a supportive smile.

That's the only downfall of being so dependent on your significant other; when they let you down, you don't have much else to turn to. That's why I'm so grateful for Alice, I can't lose her either. She's the only other person in this world I trust.

I want to believe her words. As much as Edward is my soulmate, and I would never want to admit that he could hurt me, what other reason could he have for acting this way? I pray that my worst nightmares don't come true.

~AIHB~

I blink my eyes a few times, and it takes a few seconds to adjust to the darkness until my surroundings become clearer, and I feel two strong thighs on either side of my body, trapping me against the bed. My arms are stretched above my head, and when I try to pull them away, they are bound to the headboard.

I see a shadow of a body hovering over me, and a glint of metal shines right above my head. A glimpse of moonlight peeking through the sheer curtains helps my eyes focus better. The shiny steel is a knife. Panic and terror floods through my body, and my heart stops. It takes a second for my brain to register and to fight back. A scream is trapped in my lungs, and before it's able to trail out, a cold hand presses against my mouth, sealing in my yells.

See, if Edward didn't leave the bed in the middle of the night, I wouldn't be fighting for my life and about to die.

I am about to start thrashing and attack the intruder until a warm, deep, intense voice—one I've always felt safe around but I'm not too sure about now—presses against the shell of my ear. "Shhh baby, don't be afraid. It's just me," he whispers. My heart races, my blood pulses, and my eyes are wide in shock. Even though I'm more at ease knowing it's Edward, the tremors and fear running through me doesn't stop.

Why the fuck does he have a knife, has he lost his mind? "Edward, what the fuck are you doing?" I shriek and instinctively pull against my restraints, the thick rope digging into my skin.

"Why? Are you scared, baby?" Edward asks eerily calmly. He gently traces a finger slowly down the side of my face. I feel so exposed to the heat of his glare that's tracing down my body. I'm only wearing a tiny, lilac, lace nightgown with no panties underneath that has pushed up around my hips, and the straps have fallen down my shoulders from my struggle, exposing one of my pert breasts.

"Let me fucking go." I don't know why I'm in such a panic, but I'm still disoriented from sleep, and it's hard to focus surrounded by darkness. All my senses are heightened in fear.

It's just Edward. I'm safe. He would never hurt me.

"I like you all tied up and at my mercy," Edward purrs seductively. His raspy voice, hoarse with sleep and familiar touch calms me slightly. "Keep on struggling, babygirl. It makes me so fucking hard." Edward proves his point by grinding his throbbing length against me. He captures my lips with his, claiming and dominating, stealing all my breath as he fucks my mouth with his tongue.

I bite his tongue, partly because he's turning me on and bringing out the naughty bratty side of me, but also because I still need some answers.

Edward pulls back with a deadly smirk, wiping the little bit of blood from his mouth with his finger. "You have a dirty fucking mouth, and you're acting like a bitchy little brat. I should either shove my cock in it to shut you up or punish your ass to teach you a lesson," he snarls in anger, his eyes locking with mine.

Edward clearly wants to dominate me and roleplay right now. He's still straddling me, and I can feel his rigid bulge digging into my thigh. The fear has been replaced with pure hot lust. If I really was petrified and wanted him to stop, all I would have to say is one word, but I'm not because the dark naughty side of me wants this.

He's shirtless and in nothing but a pair of grey sweatpants. Now that I can make out his features better, I can see his smooth, pale skin covered with his black, macabre ink—quite a few tattoos dedicated to me—covering his powerful, solid, tight muscles. I absorb his hypnotizing smell—sandalwood, fire, musk and his own unique scent—earthly and manly and makes me drip with arousal.

Edward is my home and I am safe.

"Baby, we can play. Just tell me why you have a knife." My tone softens, and I stare at him with trust and love.

Edward tenderly caresses the side of my face with his other hand. "I wanna try something we've never done before. I promise you'll enjoy every second of it, and I'll stop if you don't like it." He places a sweet kiss against my lips, easing his dominance to make sure I'm alright. We've always been kinky and adventurous in bed, but more than usual lately.

He slides the tip of the knife against my thigh, pushing the material of my nightdress up until my bare swollen pussy is exposed to his gaze. Edward groans, and I'm sure he can see how wet I am. With the blade between my skin and the material of my lingerie, he slices the knife through it, right down the middle in one swift stroke. He rips the fabric off of me and throws it across the room—leaving me exposed. I gasp in shock and excitement. I guess this wasn't such a bad idea after all.

"It's ok. I would never hurt you. You're safe. I love you," Edward soothes. I can't believe I doubted him for a moment.

Edward runs his tongue up my throat before digging his teeth in my neck, sucking and bruising the flesh. I arch my back and cry out as he carefully traces the point of the blade against one nipple; it puckers under the cold metal. His lips trail down to my other one as he sucks and swirls his tongue around it. He then bites down at the same time as he pushes the knife slightly harder against my skin. I have never felt this much pleasure just from having my tits played with.

I didn't know I could be this turned on by knife-play, but it's like Edward knows what I need before I do. The thrill and the danger of it, but knowing it's in the hands of the person I trust with my life, is such a powerful feeling. "Does it scare you, knowing I have your life in my hands, and I can end it at any second?" Edward sneers, but it's all part of the fantasy. I'm not afraid at all, quite the opposite. "Every part of you belongs to me."

Edward trails the blade down my torso, leaving shivers and goosebumps along my skin. His plump lips lead a blend of gentle, feather-like kisses and rough, possessive bites from my chest, down my stomach, the knife still tracing down my flesh alongside his lips. His tongue roughly glides against me, leaving my skin tingling in his wake.

Once the knife reaches the top of my mound, right below my stomach, he pushes it harder, pricking me with the tip lightly but enough to draw a few droplets of blood that he catches with his tongue. Edward groans at the taste of my blood. "Mhm, you taste so fucking good." Wetness drips from between my legs. I don't even feel any pain. "You're my little painslut, aren't you?" he taunts smugly. I whimper in agreement, so turned on and lost for words.

Keeping the blade pressed against my soft skin and laying the knife on my mound, he spreads my legs and pushes his head between my thighs. He caresses my slit with his lips, only brushing them against my sensitive flesh. Once he licks his lips and tastes my arousal on his tongue, it's like something primal and carnal is unleashed within him. "Your taste makes me fucking insane," Edward growls, digging in deeper.

Edward pushes his tongue firmly between my slick folds. He fiercely and wildly laps up my juices, his tongue swirling and mouth slurping—ravenous for my taste. I quiver and gasp as my hips buck against his face. His fingers squeeze, and his nails painfully dig into my ass, lifting me to his face, helping me fuck his mouth as I rock against him.

Edward's growls are blended with the sloppy sound of him eating me ferociously as if he is desperate for my cum, the bottom half of his face covered in my wetness. His tongue penetrates and stabs into my entrance aggressively. He licks deeper and harder, burying it further inside of me as I clench around his tongue.

I tremble against him, and I wish my hands weren't tied up so I could push him away because the intensity is too much. Edward doesn't stop; if anything, he speeds up his pace, devouring me harder and faster, worsening my torment. He spreads my thighs as wide as possible, holding me down and eating me like he is angry at my pussy and wants to punish me. "Is it too much baby, are you going to come all over my fucking face?" he grunts, burying his face back between my legs. I can't let out any other sound than a strangled sob—it's all too much.

Edward trails his tongue up, lashing at my clit brutally. He engulfs it in his mouth and sucks so deeply that it's borderline painful. My nerve endings are so sensitive from his violent worship and desperate feasting, so when he bites down roughly on it, that's all I need to explode.

This whole time, the pleasure he was bringing me made me forget about the knife, so he shocks me when he pushes it harder into the flesh of my stomach, but not with enough force to puncture my skin. I'm blind with euphoria and scream louder than I ever have, like an animal being slaughtered. Edward chases and forces my orgasm out of me like it was the air he needed to breathe.

Thank God I don't have neighbors because they would have called the police. "Yes, drown me in your juices," Edward begs. His mouth is hungry, greedy and forceful to taste my orgasm, not missing one drop as if it is holy water as he sucks me dry. I love when he gets wild and intense like this—so primal and ravenous.

He rises on his knees above me, frees my restrained hands by slicing the knife through the thick rope attached to the headboard, and then throws it across the bedside table.

Before I can even come down from my high, Edward flips me over in one quick movement. He grips my hips, leaving bruises with his fingers, and raises my bottom half, so I'm on my knees with my arms outstretched and my face and chest pressed against the mattress. "Are you ready for me to destroy your pussy?" Edward hisses. I nod frantically. "Pleaseee," I plead.

Edward grasps my thighs, spreading them to his liking. He kneels behind me, one hand pushing down the side of my face as his other hand grips his cock, rubbing the tip of his shaft up and down my wet core. He's impatient and needy, lining up his hardness with my entrance and pushing deep inside of me in one long stroke that makes my breath catch in my throat, impaling me on his cock.

Edward doesn't waste any time, slamming into me immediately with a deadly pace. He's desperate and insane with desire, only focused on one thing. Dominating and possessing my body, he's taking everything he can from me. Edward squeezes me harder with his large hands, groping every inch of my skin he can reach, marking me with his tough grip.

All I can hear is the sound of his pelvis slamming against my ass mixed with his growls and groans, and my muffled whimpers and cries. His fingers scratch and practically rip into my skin as I shout louder, the pleasure overriding the pain.

"That's it, take every inch of my cock, even if it hurts," Edward emphasizes every word with a sharp thrust, each one hitting harder and deeper. I'm just a puppet for him to use and handle roughly.

He's driving into me so hard it feels like he's going to break me. I brace myself and try to hold myself up against his vicious pounding. My body is aching and tired, and it's challenging to keep my balance. The headboard hits the wall with each demanding stroke. With his power, I'm surprised he hasn't fucked me through the mattress or broke the bed.

Edward gives me a quick sharp slap right on my ass a few times that stings deliciously, alternating between each side. "Good girl, taking all of me like my good little slut," he praises. I love when he calls me that.

He reaches forward, gripping my long thick black hair in one hand, pulling it back with his punishing thrusts, forcing my head to tilt back. "You're all fucking mine, forever. I will kill anyone that tries to take you away from me," Edward snarls. His voice is so harsh and husky, I hardly recognize it. He's getting carried away with this fantasy—even though it feels much more than that. I don't know if he's just saying it in the heat of the moment or if he actually means it, but hearing him say he would kill for me excites and turns me on more than it should.

I love his dirty mouth and when he gets all possessive. No one other than myself would ever expect Edward could be this vicious and ruthless—it's one of my favorite things about him. He's so reserved and quiet in public but a savage beast in bed—with me.

His pace is unrelenting, slamming his hips against mine, spearing into me. I'm so close to collapsing. I grip onto the blanket covering the bed for dear life. Edward's holding most of my weight up with a death grip on my hips, pushing them against every pump of his hips, controlling all my movements. I try to lift and hold myself up, but I immediately fall with his harsh slams.

Edward digs his fingers and spreads my ass cheeks as he watches his dick slide in and out of me. "Fuck, the way your pussy is dripping and strangling my cock is so fucking dirty. You need this just as bad as I do, don't you baby?" I whimper and nod my head in response even though it's still pressed against the bed. He's so cocky and confident, and I want to slap the arrogant smirk off his face, but I love it when he's in this element—all powerful and in charge.

Edward's sweaty chest sticks to my back as he hovers over me, pushing some of his weight on me. I can feel every ridge of him inside of me. My pussy pulses and constricts around him. Edward gathers my wetness onto his fingers and traces it against my other tight entrance. I cry in pleasure as he pushes his long finger inside my ass, hitting that spot deep inside of me that makes me fucking crazy. "You're my dirty little girl." That's all I need. I can't handle it anymore.

Jolts of electricity shoot through my body. Edward makes me fucking scream at the top of my lungs as if I'm being murdered, bringing me to the brink of insanity with pleasure and desire. My inner muscles clench, grip and contract around his large thick length as my climax consumes my body and mind. I feel as if I'm having an out-of-body experience. Only he can make me feel this way. His tight muscles tense, his groans become more desperate, and his furious pace turns erratic as he comes inside of me with a roar.

Edward collapses on top of me before rolling to his side and embracing me in his arms, smothering his face into my neck, breathing me in. We lay there, spent and exhausted, reeling in our euphoria and catching our breaths.

Edward grasps onto either side of my face, forcing me to stare up at him. His eyes are so powerful and dark, speaking so many emotions and filled with love. "See how fucking amazing that was? I love you so much baby, thank you for trusting me. I could never hurt you." He leans down, pressing a kiss against my collarbone.

At this moment, all my doubts were erased, and I trusted Edward with my life, even though I never stopped. He was everything. I was never more protected than in Edward's arms, and I would do anything to protect him.

"I love you too." My lips take possession of his mouth, sweeping and caressing my tongue against his, expressing my passion for him through my kisses. I hold onto Edward and never want to let him go. My eyes water at the intensity of the emotion he makes me feel. How he can make me feel so loved and secure but ravage me and give me my dirtiest, darkest fantasies at the same time.

I'm addicted to him. I crave every part of him in all the worst ways. No matter what happens, I would never want to change that.

~AIHB~

It's Saturday night, and we're celebrating Alice's twenty-fifth birthday at a posh little bar in the city. There are about twenty of us, but I barely know any of them. Even though I'm close with Alice, I don't mingle with any of her friends, although she has introduced me to them. She's the social butterfly out of the two of us, where I'm the complete opposite of that—doing everything in my power to avoid people. I've chatted with a few familiar faces, but that's pretty much it.

I've spent most of the night hiding in a booth, having a few drinks, and tucked into Edward's side with his arm around my shoulder as we people watch. I'm much happier here than forcing fake conversations with strangers I have nothing in common with.

I excuse myself and step out to use the bathroom. Once I head back to the booth Edward and I were occupying, I don't see him there. I glance around, looking for him, when I find him at the bar, ordering a drink. My blood boils, and I stop breathing when I see a woman standing behind him with her arms wrapped around his waist.

I squeeze onto the glass I'm holding so tightly that it shatters in my hand. The kind server immediately comes over to me, checking to see if I'm okay, handing me napkins for the blood that's dripping from my hand, and cleaning up the broken glass at my feet. But I don't focus on anything other than them. Everything else is blurry, and the drunken chatters around me turn into white noise. I see red as I storm over to them, ignoring the concerned calls from the server.

The closer I get to them, her long platinum blonde hair and large blue eyes look familiar. She's a friend and co-worker of Alice's that I've met a couple of times and should definitely know that Edward and I are together. I guess she just arrived recently and was on a mission as soon as she saw him.

"Excuse me, what the fuck is this?" I sneer once I reach them. I don't bother hiding the venom in my tone.

Edward turns around with confusion on his face and pulls out of her grip in shock, startled by my presence and hers as well, it seems. Her eyes widen, but she covers it with mock innocence. "Oh, Bella. Hi, it's so nice to see you." She giggles with a fake ass laugh.

I want to rip her long pretty blonde hair from her scalp. "I wish I could say the same, but considering you look like a dog about to hump my husband's leg, it's not." I narrow my eyes at her.

This is exactly why I don't do well with people—too many selfish ones who don't care who they hurt to get what they want.

Man-stealing-slut-whose-name-I-forgot gasps. "Husband? Oh my god. I had no idea. I thought you were like siblings or cousins or something like that!" I can tell in her eyes that she's lying.

"Yeah totally, we're siblings that fuck each other's brains out and don't stop touching and kissing each other in public," I deadpan.

"Ew," she replies playfully, still undressing Edward with her eyes.

I step toward her and give her a deadly stare. "Listen here bitch, and stop playing dumb. If you ever come near my husband again, I will rip off every strand of hair on your pretty little head," I snarl. My words are poison.

Her jaw drops open, and she cowers back in fear before she turns to walk away. That doesn't stop her from muttering, "crazy bitch, I don't even know why he's with someone like you," under her breath as she leaves.

I'm tempted to grab her by her hair and show her what a crazy bitch I am, but I'll deal with her later. I have more important issues I need to deal with first.

"Shit, Bella. Your hand." Edward panics, grabbing some napkins from the bar and wrapping them around my wound. I feel nothing.

I glare at him, and if looks could kill, he wouldn't be breathing. "Outside now," I demand harshly, leading the way to the doors that lead to a secluded alleyway behind the bar. Edward looks almost as scared as she did.

Once the cold, brisk air hits my face, I push him against the brick wall roughly, anger and betrayal eating me from the inside out. All the insecurities and doubts I've been feeling lately come out in full force, and he's going to feel my wrath. I'm tired of ignoring things and acting like everything is ok. I'm so angry I could kill right now.

"Are you fucking cheating on me?" I blurt out in a fury.

Edward grips his hair harshly. "Are you fucking serious, Bella? You think I'm cheating right in front of you because a woman approached me at the bar?" he bellows in disbelief and rage. "How can you accuse me of that? I barely even talk to any other women."

I laugh bitterly. "Oh, don't be so naive. She didn't just approach you; she was ready to kneel down and suck your cock in front of everyone there," I hiss. "And what about all the late nights and you disappearing all the time? I'm not fucking dumb, Edward." My teeth grit in anger.

"I swear nothing is going on. You have to trust me."

"So help me God, Edward. If you're lying to me, I will cut your dick off," I sneer. It feels like there is fire in my lungs.

Edward calms down, lowering his voice. "Babe, it wasn't what it looked like. She came up and touched me from behind, and I thought it was you at first until I heard her voice. I immediately turned around to push her off of me, and that's right when I saw you."

"Well, that fucking bitch knew we were together, and I bet she was watching you like a hawk waiting for me to leave so she could make a move." My body is warm, and I can feel myself trembling, my head aching.

"Calm down baby. You're shaking." Edward caresses his hand along the back of my head, pulling me in towards his chest to soothe me. As much as I want to fight against him, I can't help the calmness he surrounds me with—even when he's the one hurting me.

I want to be mad and doubt him, but I can't when I see the look of sincerity on his face. His back was turned towards her, and he didn't give her any attention.

Edward wraps both of his arms fully around me, practically smothering me and holding me tightly. "Babe, I'll only ever want you. No one else could ever compare." He leans down and places a delicate kiss on my forehead. I cool down a bit from his warm touch and soft words.

He tilts my chin up, so I'm forced to stare into his heartbreaking eyes. "You think I can cheat on you? Do you not see how utterly obsessed I am with you? How you consume my mind with every single thought. I don't give anyone other than you the time of day. I can barely fucking breathe when you're not around me. How can you not see that?" Edward's face twists in agony.

"You barely left the house before, and now you're out and coming home late all the time," I mutter.

He looks like he wants to tell me something, but he's struggling. "I'm just taking care of things to make life easier for us. You need to trust me, Bella. I would never do anything to hurt you. Everything I do is for you. I can't lose you," Edward pleads desperately.

His words are cryptic, and I want more answers, but this isn't the time or place. We'll talk about it later. But deep down in my heart, I believe his words and feel his love and loyalty.

"What I need is to not wake up to a cold, empty bed. I only need you, Edward," I finish.

It's like a switch turns on, and his demeanor transforms into predatory and menacing. His grip on my chin turns rough. "Have I ever made you doubt your love for me?" His eyes blaze with fury.

N-no," I stammer in shock.

"You're fucking mine, and I'm fucking yours, and no one will ever get in the way of that, or I will kill them, understand?" Edward demands firmly, a wild uninhibited look in his eyes.

His change of mood stuns me into silence, so all I can do is nod my head obediently in response.

In an instant, Edward turns us, pushing and lifting me against the brick wall as my dress bunches up and my legs wrap around his waist. He roughly slams his lips against mine, his teeth cutting into my lip. He slides his tongue inside my mouth, lapping up the blood and groaning at the taste. "I love it when you bleed."

Edward's jeans fall to his ankles as he rips off my panties. He drills his cock into me so roughly, I know I'll find bruises and cuts on my body tomorrow. The wound in my hand that I still can't feel and forgot about is dripping blood all over his back as I grip on to him, trying to hang on from his brutal attack.

Edward fucks me ruthlessly and claims me with every deep thrust, proving that we belong to each other. It's almost threatening, warning that I can never leave him.

We love too hard that it can be borderline toxic, but that's what makes our love so powerful.

I hoped at that moment that the whore would come outside and see how he's mine, and I'm the only one that will feel the pleasure of his cock and scream his name.

~AIHB~

It's one o'clock in the morning and the day after Alice's party. I'm waiting in the living room for Edward to come home. He left hours ago but should have been back by now, and he's not answering his phone. I am so close to losing my shit. After what happened in the bar with Tanya, I really thought we moved past this. Even though I try to stay angry, another part of me is very worried, hoping he's ok. I know he can handle himself, but anything can happen.

After hours of waiting up for him, I hear his key unlock the door as he enters. The moment I'm about to rip him a new one, I see his flannel shirt and jeans covered in blood. I panic and run to him out of instinct. Tears are about to form in my eyes, but he speaks before I can ask questions.

"Don't worry, baby. It was just a hunting trip. It got a bit… messy," Edward says with a hot as fuck, dirty grin on his face. I knew he was visiting some old friends, but he never said anything about a hunting trip. I know it should feel wrong, but seeing him covered in animal blood brings out something in me. There's something so primal and animalistic about it—like survival instincts.

Edward stalks over to me with slow, deliberate steps— like a predator cornering his prey. I walk backward with each step he takes until I hit the armchair and fall back into it. Thrill and fear run through me. He leans down, both of his hands gripping the armrests, caging me in. His eyes that almost look black in the dim light stun me into silence as they pierce into me with their depraved and consuming glare.

Edward traces his thumb against my bottom lip, slipping it into my mouth as the taste of metallic fills my tastebuds. He pushes it all the way back until I gag around him. "I want you to suck my cock," he commands gravelly.

Lust and the desperate need to taste him fills me as I get off the chair and push Edward down on it before kneeling in front of him. I quickly unbuckle his belt and push his jeans and boxers down until they gather around his ankles. His swollen, massive, hard shaft bobs right in front of my face, my mouth practically watering.

I grip his thick cock with one hand, my fingers barely meeting, squeezing tightly. I pepper kisses and swipe my tongue along his dripping tip, teasing him as I smirk up at him. Edward's jaw is clenched, and his eyebrows are furrowed. He seems so frustrated with pent-up sexual tension, desperate for release, and I'm not giving it to him easily–I'm still mad at him for coming home so late.

I give him one long stroke of my tongue from the base of his erection to the tip, sliding my tongue along the veins and ridges. He growls, roughly gripping my hair in his fist. "I want you to swallow all of my cock," Edward grits through clenched teeth.

Edward grabs my hands and slides them under his thighs, trapping them against the seat. He has all the power and control now as he grips his shaft in one hand and forces my head back with the other. He thrusts his hips against my face, his cock sliding down my throat as I gag around him and have no choice but to engulf his full length. The head of his dick hits the back of my throat. He no longer gives me an option, controlling my pace and movements, pumping his hips to fuck my face while holding the back of my head.

Edward groans, throwing his head back. "Your mouth feels so fucking good. I love when you choke on my cock." I suck hard and deep with vigor, hollowing my cheeks and bobbing my head faster.

My eyes water as my throat constricts around him, but I love when he's dominant and aggressive like this. Possessing and using me for his pleasure, my panties are drenched with my arousal. The muscles in his thighs flex as he bucks his hips more rapidly.

"Fuck, just like that baby. Swallow every drop," Edward grinds out, his eyes clenched tight. He wraps his hand lightly around my throat as he frantically gyrates his hips, thrusting his cock faster and deeper down my throat, chasing his release. It's getting harder to breathe, but I don't stop. I need him to come in my mouth.

I do as he says like a good girl and drink down his release, his eyes never leaving mine. I gasp for breath as he pulls his length out of my mouth. Edward grips my chin, raising my head as he leans down and sucks on my lips with a sardonic smirk on his face. "Blood really turns you on, doesn't it, my nasty girl?"

I would never admit it out loud, but he's not wrong. We've been having the best sex of our life when blood is involved in some form.

What is wrong with us?

~AIHB~

It's Monday night after a long exhausting day of work. I'm cocooned in a blanket on the couch, watching some true-crime show, drinking a cup of tea as my phone starts ringing. Alice's name pops on my caller I.D. "Hey Alice," I greet.

Her voice is hoarse, and she sounds like she's been crying. "Hey Bella. Uhmm, I have some weird news. Remember my friend Tanya who came out for my birthday on Saturday?"

"Yeah," I swallow thickly. The bitch that tried to seduce my husband and then called me a crazy bitch. Why would Alice bring her up?

She takes a deep breath and sniffles. "Well, she's been missing since that night. She was last seen leaving the bar by herself around the same time that we all left. According to her roommate, she never made it home that night, and no one has seen or heard from her since."

Dread fills my stomach. "Oh Alice, I'm sorry. That's terrible. I hope she's ok." I try to keep my voice neutral and calm.

"Me too. I saw you and Edward speaking to her a bit that night… Did she say anything or seem a bit off towards you guys?"

Other than her being a man stealer and a cunt, nothing else seemed off.

I rub my temples, trying to ease the headache that's forming. "Tanya only spoke to us for a couple of minutes—just friendly conversation," I lie. "I've only met her one other time and haven't chatted with her much, so I don't know her well enough to know if something was off. Sorry Alice, I wish I could be of more help."

I don't know what happened to Tanya, but I can't let Alice know I got in an argument with Tanya before she went missing; she'll think I had something to do with it.

Her cries get heavier through the phone. "I-I'm just so worried. That's not like her to just d-disappear and ignore my texts and calls."

"I know babe. I'm so sorry. If I find anything out, I'll let you know. Hopefully, you'll find her. I'm here for you anytime," I say sincerely. I wish I could be there to comfort Alice, even though she is too good of a person for Tanya.

Even though Tanya did hit on my Edward, I hope the girl isn't dead. However, there's a weird feeling of relief deep inside of me that I try to ignore.

~AIHB~

I never go into basements. Something tragic happened to me when I was a child, but I don't remember any of it. That's the good thing about trauma, I guess—it can block out certain memories of your past, things you can't handle accepting—especially since the unknown events happened when I was so young.

All I do know is that I can't shake the feeling of dread every time I pass the door leading to the basement. I purposely avoid it, worried that it might trigger me and bring back unwanted memories. I've sworn my dad, who is the only one that does know what happened to me, to never tell me. I finally have control over my mind and feel happier than I ever have—I don't want anything ruining my progress—and a lot of that is thanks to Edward.

Well, fuck my luck, because today I have no choice but to go to that dreadful place. We've been having issues with our circuit breaker. Lately, the power has occasionally been shutting off, and we've been waiting for an electrician to check it out; it's not easy to find them in these small towns. The circuit breaker is in the basement, but so far it has only happened when Edward is home, and he goes down to reset the breaker.

I have two choices. I can wait a few hours until Edward is back; he's at his dad's house, helping him with some housework. That wouldn't be a problem if it wasn't already pitch black outside—have I mentioned I'm also afraid of the dark and not enough candles could comfort me? And I'm not bothering Edward to come home early just to turn on the power—his dad already thinks I'm needy and weird. So, it only leaves me with the last option—face my damn fears like an adult, head downstairs myself, and turn the lights back on.

I don't know what's a bigger fear at this point—the darkness or the basement—they both sound very unappealing. Whatever happened to me was over twenty years ago, and I'm not even sure if it had anything to do with a basement—it's just the only explanation of why it gives me such a bad feeling.

Plus, Edward and I have been living in this house for a few years now, so what scary things could be down there? I can't let my unknown past dictate my life anymore—I need to be brave. I take a deep breath, give myself a pep talk, and grab a flashlight. I need to get over this ridiculous phobia, and I finally have a reason to.

I hesitantly head towards the stairs, my body and mind are in panic, and it's taking everything in my power not to respond to fight or flight mode, but I keep on telling myself I'm not in danger—it's just an irrational fear. I muster up all the courage I have, walk fast, and only focus on my goal. Pretty quickly, I find the circuit breaker from the minimal light from my flashlight. I flick the right switch, and I'm surrounded by brightness.

Deep breaths. You're okay. Nothing can hurt you in the light—right?

A sigh of relief releases from me, and a weight is lifted off my chest. I take in my surroundings, just seeing an ordinary, concrete basement with storage—not out of the ordinary and nothing creepy or out of a horror movie. No deep-rooted traumatizing memories unlocked out of the vault of my mind, thankfully.

A laugh bubbles inside of my chest, a feeling of victory of facing one of my biggest fears. I haven't been in a basement in over twenty years. I can't believe I made such a big deal out of it for nothing. I guess it's the safety that Edward and this homemade me feel that gave me the courage.

As I turn around and head back towards the stairs, calm and fearless, a large black bag catches my attention from the corner of my eye now that there's light. I stop and stare at it, wanting to avoid it and just assume it's a storage bag, but there's a strange feeling in the pit of my stomach and a voice in my head that's drawing me towards it. The fear is back, alarms in my mind are ringing, and I have a bad feeling as shivers run down my spine. I can't help myself as I walk closer, and I gag, covering my mouth as the most horrid stench I've ever smelled comes from the object.

What the fuck is that? It smells like a rotting corpse.

There's something stuck between the closed zipper—A chunk of what looks like hair.

Familiar blonde hair.

No. No, it can't be.

I shake my head in denial, thinking this can't be real. All my fears and nightmares about basements have come true. As my mind and body enter flight mode, and I'm about to run for my life; I feel a hard, built body press behind my back and a low, sinister voice in my ear. "You shouldn't be down here, Bella." I jump in shock and horror, but I can't move.

It's Edward, but I feel more terrified knowing it's him. I doubt someone else is hiding a body in our basement. It's him, but it's not at the same time; there's something different in his tone I haven't heard before.

I can feel his breath against my skin. Shivers and goosebumps erupt all over my body, and not in a good way. "W-What is that, E-Edward?" I choke, my voice trembling. I'm not dumb, but I need him to confirm it.

All my doubts and concerns resurface. Do I even know the real Edward? How did I not see this coming? I mean, I did sense something was off, but my worst fear was cheating, not him killing people. Right?

"Don't you mean who? But you should already know." Edward chuckles darkly. He lightly trails a finger down my arm, and his tongue traces along the shell of my ear. I fiercely pull away as I quiver—for the wrong reasons. "Quit playing fucking games, Edward. Why the fuck is there a dead girl in our basement?" I shriek at the top of my lungs.

Edward quickly slaps his hand over my mouth from behind, muffling my screams, which pushes my back against his firm chest harder. "I never wanted you to find out."

How can you be petrified of the one person that you've trusted with your life, felt safe around, and always ran to when you were in danger?

"Get the fuck away from me," I cry, tears stinging my eyes. I fight against his hold, but it's useless; Edward's too tall and strong, trapping me against him. He twists my body around with barely any effort and forces my back against the cold wall. He possessively wraps his large hand around my throat, holding me there. It's not to hurt me, but to show dominance and ownership—or to prevent me from running.

"You're never fucking leaving me. Over my dead body," Edward seethes menacingly. "I promise baby, I won't ever hurt you… but I will only break that promise if you try to run from me." His lips tilt into a devilish grin. His other hand that's not constricting my neck caresses along my hair. His gentle, loving touch against his ruthless words and actions gives me a whiplash and makes me feel things I shouldn't be feeling.

I stare into his haunting eyes, and even though I see a touch of insanity and malevolence, I also see fear and doubt. An insecurity and vulnerability that lingers deep within. But mostly, I read the love and devotion in his depths, and at that moment, deep in my heart, something is telling me that he could never hurt me, but I need to hear it from his lips.

The Edward I know is still there.

I try my best to calm down and try a different approach than fighting back. That won't work in his state of mind. "Edward, I need to know why there's a dead woman in here. I need to know if you can hurt me the same way you hurt her," I breathe shakily, lowering my voice.

Agony consumes his face as he slams his fist against the wall by my head. "I just said I wouldn't ever fucking hurt you. Have I ever? I did this for us... to protect you—to not lose you," he roars viciously.

"How does killing an innocent woman protect me, Edward?" My voice is barely a whisper.

Edward grits his teeth, his mouth so close to mine, I can feel his breath against my lips. "Was she really that innocent, huh? Then how come you looked as if you wanted to kill her that night? She seduced me and wanted to fuck me, knowing we were together. She tried to come between us, hoping I would be unfaithful and cheat on you." His words mock cruelly, stabbing into my heart with each word. Rage shakes through me, and fury boils in my stomach at the reminder, resurfacing all my sadistic thoughts from that night.

Dread should fill me, but instead, redemption and satisfaction rush over me when it's confirmed that it's Tanya dead in that body bag. At least it wasn't a completely innocent girl.

Shouldn't I be more devastated? My husband killed a woman. What's wrong with me?

And why do I feel a sense of gratification?

Instead of remorse and fear, it feels like a demon possesses my mind, filling me with crazed rage. I grab Edward's throat back and squeeze hard at his taunting. "You're fucking mine," I seethe threateningly.

I'm now the predator.

"Yes, there's my fucking girl," Edward gleams with menace. "We're the same baby. I know that it doesn't bother you that she's dead. Drop the act and stop lying to yourself. You're elated that I got rid of her." His lips brush against mine, slipping his tongue out to trace along mine. I can't help the needy moan that slips from me. Both our hands are still wrapped around the other's throat as if we're competing for dominance.

Why is this turning me on? Our kiss is hungry, desperate and ferocious. I'm not going to fight back anymore or deny my desire. My love and trust for him hasn't faltered at all.

In a twisted sick type of way, it's kind of sweet and romantic that he killed a woman who tried to steal him from me to prove his loyalty and devotion.

Everything makes sense now—all the late nights, his words 'everything I do is for you,' the blood, the suspicious behavior. I'm still relieved to know he wasn't cheating on me.

I wonder if she was the first person he killed?

Edward pulls back to catch his breath, his hands holding my face tight as his eyes burn into mine like a wildfire. I let go of his neck. "Baby, you know from the first moment we met that we were both damaged and fucked up, and that's why we fell in love and became obsessed. We found our missing half. And that's the reason why you're not running out of here, screaming and running to the cops. You're not afraid of me 'cause you know I'll always keep you safe." I can see the honesty, devotion, and loyalty in his eyes, and I know mine reflects the same.

"Just be careful. I can't lose you," I respond emotionally. I can accept and forgive him for killing someone, but I can't worry about him getting caught and taken away from me.

Just the thought of Edward being arrested rips my heart to shreds. I've known Edward for almost half my life, and I know him better than anyone else. He's right about everything. Also, I'm not as surprised as I should be for some reason.

Edward seems much more relaxed and relieved that he doesn't have to carry this secret anymore. I will do anything to protect him and make sure he doesn't get caught.

I'm sticking to our marriage vows—for better or worse, 'till death do us part.

"You will never lose me, I promise. Now, you better never accuse me of cheating again." Edward trails wet hot kisses along my throat, sucking and bruising my skin. "I can smell your wet and sweet little pussy from here. You can't deny your body's reaction to me even though you just found out I murdered someone," he grunts against my flesh.

Edward then proceeds to rip both of our clothes off and fucks me savagely and relentlessly against the wall until it hurts pleasurably—like there's a ravenous thirst in us. His cock buried so deep inside of me, filling, stretching, and claiming every inch of me. I grip his hair so tightly in my fists that I practically rip it from the root. He leaves bruises all over my neck with his mouth and teeth, and his hands dig, scratch, and mark my ivory skin. We brand each other.

The whole time my eyes never leave Tanya's body. A realization hits me—on Sunday when Edward came home from his hunting trip, covered in blood, and I sucked his cock so good he saw stars, I don't think it was animal blood.

I reach the highest state of euphoria and come harder than I ever have before.

~AIHB~

I slam the door of my car, heading up the stairs to my front door, home from work. Edward's out grabbing some pumpkins from the store so we can do our yearly tradition of pumpkin carving. As I search for my keys in my cluttered purse, someone calls my name from behind me, startling me.

"Hey Bella." Alice walks towards me, looking nervous as she wrings her hands. She is never awkward like this.

"Hey Alice, what are you doing here?" I ask suspiciously. She never just shows up at my house unannounced; she always calls first. We're not used to unexpected visitors.

"Do you have a minute? I wanted to ask you something."

Couldn't she call me? But she is my best friend, so I can't turn her away. I hope she's okay, I've never seen her act this odd before.

"Uhm, yeah, sure. Come in." I unlock the door, and she follows in behind me.

She makes herself comfortable on the couch as I go to get some drinks from the fridge.

"What's up? Is everything ok? You kinda have me worried." I sit down next to her, handing her a glass of wine. "You never just show up randomly like this. Not that I don't like the surprise."

"I've been thinking about something lately, and I didn't want to say anything to you 'cause I didn't want to worry you, but I can't keep it in anymore." Alice takes a deep breath. "Just please hear me out before you freak out," she says, trying to keep her trembling voice calm.

"K, you're freaking me out even more. What's going on?" I laugh nervously. My heart thumps in my chest, and my stomach twists into knots.

"You know last time we talked... how you said that Edward was acting weird? You don't think he had something to do with Tanya's disappearance, would you?"

Fuck.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.

How does she know?

Panic rises in my throat. "What makes you think that?" As much as I try to act unaffected, I can't hide my defensive tone.

"Well, based on what you said…"

I cut her off. "I said he was acting weird. Not that he was a fucking killer or kidnapper, Alice. Why would you even think that?" My blood heats.

Alice freezes and raises her eyebrows in suspicion. "How do you know she's dead?"

Shit. "What? I don't know."

Alice narrows her eyes. "Then why did you say killer? As of right now, she's only missing."

I can't help but feel attacked. I get off the couch and begin to pace the room. "Who the fuck are you Alice, the F.B.I? Do not put words in my mouth. Are you seriously accusing me, your best friend?" I am filled with hostility as my voice raises. "I can't believe you! I said that because usually, when people go missing, there's a big chance they're dead. I don't know fucking anything about Tanya. I only ever said a few words to her." I'm fuming at her accusations. I can't believe she's throwing away a lifelong friendship for an unloyal bitch she worked with.

Tears spring in Alice's eyes. "I'm sorry Bella, I'm not trying to accuse you. I just need to find out what happened to her. I know it's something bad, and I can't stop thinking about what we talked about last time when you were worried about Edward. Then that night, right before she went missing, I saw her being touchy and talking to Edward at the bar before you confronted them," she rambles out without taking a breath.

Damn, I hoped no one saw that, but Alice is way more observant than I thought.

"What does that mean?" My face void of emotion.

"Well, she was embracing him, and it looked a bit flirty, and when you asked me if he could cheat..."

I clench my jaw. "And you defended him and said he would never cheat! Why would you change your mind now, Alice? Nothing happened that night. I saw everything. She made a move on him, and he rejected her. That's it," I chastise. "Just because your whore of a friend doesn't know how to respect other women or their relationships doesn't mean we had anything to do with her going missing. Who knows what other shit she did or what other random people she got involved with." The bitterness seeps into my words. Alice hasn't seen this side of me very often.

I see some realization and doubt in her eyes, slowly believing my words. Her friend wasn't who she thought she was.

"I just want to make sure you're safe, Bella. I can't lose you too," she sniffles.

"Alice, I am fine. I know you're concerned, but that's not fair of you to come here and accuse Edward. You've known both of us way longer than Tanya. You're my best friend, but Edward is my husband. So if you're going to accuse him of anything else and not have any respect for him, please don't bother coming back here," I state firmly and coldly.

She looks devastated and broken with her pink-tinged and tear-stained cheeks and red puffy eyes—not like the usual put-together, bubbly Alice.

My heart is breaking for her, and I feel terrible. Alice is important to me, and I don't want to lose her, but if I have to cut her out to protect Edward, I will. He's the most important person to me, and I'm not letting anyone catch him, especially if someone's suspicious—even if it's Alice.

Fuck, I'm gonna kill him. He needs to be more careful.

~AIHB~

All my worst nightmares have just come true.

"Police," a deep voice calls from the other side of our front door. The hard knock on the wood stings my ears, and my heart pulses in my chest.

I turn to Edward, my eyes wide in fear, and my hand squeezes his so painfully that he winces. "What the fuck are they doing here? Should we just ignore them?" I panic and feel myself hyperventilating.

Edward is so calm and collected, with no expression on his face, that it's freaking me out. "It will make it more suspicious if we do. They probably just have some questions since we were two of the last people seen with Tanya," he explains.

"Do you think they know?" I whisper, tears springing my eyes.

I swear I can feel my heart physically cracking. Edward is everything, and I know I'm losing him by the minute. It's like waiting for the most explosive bomb to detonate. I will do anything to save him, even if it means throwing myself in front of that bomb.

Edward strokes his hands along my arms, trying to soothe me. "Baby, calm down. If they had evidence and knew for sure, I would already be arrested. I won't answer any personal questions without a lawyer. We'll be fine." He's trying to put on a strong front for my sake, but I can see in his eyes that he doesn't believe his own words.

Tears are now streaming down my face. "I can't fucking lose you," I sob, clinging onto him as if this is the last time I'll feel his warm skin against mine. Memorizing every inch of him.

Edward leans down and gives me the most heartbreaking kiss, tasting my tears. "Nothing will break us apart. You're stuck with me forever, ok?" I nod my head in response, praying his words are true.

Edward's eyes are glossy as well, and he's squeezing onto me tightly. "Go hide somewhere. I'll tell them you're not here. I don't want you involved."

I don't want to leave him, but I know he won't answer the door until I do, and the knocks are more persistent now. I hide in the bathroom that's thankfully to the right of the front door. I press my ear to the bathroom door, trying to make out what they're saying. I don't care what Edward says; if they say anything that hints he's in trouble, I'm not hiding anymore. I'm hoping it's just an innocent conversation to see if we saw anything suspicious that night, and they leave, searching somewhere else for a suspect.

"Hello, is Isabella Swan here?" an older, gruff voice asks.

"She's not. I'm her husband. Can I help you?" Edward replies evenly.

"We have some questions regarding the disappearance of Tanya Denali. Bella was supposedly a friend and last seen with her," a second, younger voice answers.

A friend, my ass!

"I don't recall her being a friend of Tanya's, but I will let her know to contact you when she comes home."

"Were you both not out with her on Saturday night?" Suspicion in the officer's voice.

"Yes, but we barely said a few words to her. We were there for a birthday, and she was a friend of the birthday girls." I notice the hatred and annoyance in Edward's tone even though the officers don't.

"We're usually not allowed to divulge this information, but because you are her husband and might be hiding where she is, you must know that we have some skeptical video footage that shows your wife was the last person seen with Tanya before she disappeared. So we need to speak with her immediately." I hate that I can't see Edward's reaction right now. "Look Edward, you seem like a good man, but your wife is a person of interest in Tanya's disappearance, and if we find out that you're keeping information from us and hiding where she is, you can be charged as an accomplice," the older cop concludes.

I'm on the verge of a panic attack, and I feel like the small bathroom is closing in on me. What are they talking about? I didn't speak to Tanya for the rest of the night after I scared her away from the bar.

Although, if I am blamed for the murder instead of Edward, I don't care. I'll do it if it means he's safe. I don't want to be without him at all, but I won't have him rotting in a prison cell. I will do anything for him.

After a long moment of silence, Edward's next words make my stomach drop and heart rip to pieces. I feel the worst pain I've ever felt in my life—like I'm dying from the inside. I grip onto the sink, my fists turning red, staring at my distorted reflection as my vision turns blurry. I can't breathe, my head starts pounding, and all I see is black before I collapse.

"It was me. I did it. I killed Tanya," are the last words I hear.

EPOV

I was protecting her from herself. The first time I tried telling Bella about her disorder and what she did when she was Marie, she ended up almost overdosing on pills in the bathroom hours later, devastated with what she had done. Thank God I'd found her in time—I don't know what I'd do without her. I can't lose her.

Thankfully she didn't remember it the next day because she was in between her two identities, and even though Bella wanted to die at that moment, Marie didn't. When she experiences anything traumatic, Bella is her shield that doesn't remember any of those events. While Marie harbors all the distressing things that had happened to Bella, including when she was younger—and is why she is the way she is.

When I first met Bella, I could tell something was off. It was probably my own damaged radar that could detect it, but that just brought me closer to her. She went through something horrific as a child, and with age, started developing a different identity, but just one—Marie. Marie kept her safe from all the bad people who hurt her.

The older she got, Marie took over a bit more, especially when someone in her life caused her distress. She killed a few bullies, women that tried to seduce me, revenge against people who hurt her in her past, and people who hurt me—just corrupt people in general. Marie never attacked innocent people. By the time she murdered her first victim, I was already so madly in love with her; I knew I would stay by her side and protect her no matter what. I never tried to fix her—people like us weren't fixable—we just made sure we weren't caught.

We've never put a name to whatever disorder Bella has and hadn't consulted a psychiatrist because if they ever found out what she did when she was Marie, she'd either be locked up in prison or a psych ward for life. I may not be a doctor, but I'm wise enough to know it's some sort of dissociative identity disorder, although she only has the two identities—Bella and Marie. When she switched between the two, she would pass out and wake up disoriented and confused.

Because of it, she disassociates a lot, forgetting many memories and not remembering anything that happens in her other identity—which is why she isn't even aware of her disorder or dual identities. It's also partly why she doesn't remember any of her trauma—but Marie knows and remembers—and it's the reason why she's so tainted.

Bella is pure, sweet, naive, and innocent. Marie was created to protect Bella—she is her protector, but also her monster.

I was the only person that knew how to deal with Marie—well, sort of—I still couldn't stop her from killing. Not that I really wanted to anyway. Marie's vicious, ruthless, a savage–but I don't love her any less. I was only nervous about her getting caught.

I vowed I would never tell Bella about Marie and her antics and would keep them separated. Ever since that day of almost losing her, it was my job to protect both of them. If I had to cover the murders and make Bella believe I was the one doing them, I would. At first, I was hoping that Bella would never find out at all, but I knew it would be sooner or later before she found a body. There were so many close-calls, and Bella had so much faith in me that she looked past most of them.

But when I lied to Bella and told her I was the one killing, for a moment, I was petrified she would be as disgusted as she was when she found out she was the murderer. I was terrified to lose her, but it was better for her to think I did it rather than herself. I didn't think I could fall even deeper in love with Bella, but I did the moment she accepted me, stayed by my side, and protected me—like I did with her. Two sides of the same coin.

I mean, even though I'm not the one ending lives doesn't mean I'm sane either. I'm her accomplice and cover up all the murders with a smile on my face—we're a team. I'm still incredibly fucked up and sadistic—clearly. I always had a dark side lingering due to my own upbringing, and finding Bella made me accept my true self, and I found my missing piece in this world. I finally didn't feel alone.

She was just a tad bit crazier.

I will do whatever I have to, to keep her alive and safe. I can't live without Bella and Marie. I need them both as much as the air I breathe.

The reality of the situation hits me like a ton of bricks. Fuck.

I knew this was eventually going to come to an end. How long could I keep on covering up for her without getting caught? I loved her too much and wouldn't lose her. She was everything to me, and if it meant I had to rot in a prison cell for the rest of my life, so she didn't have to—I would do it proudly. I just didn't know if she would be able to cover up her own tracks if I wasn't here to protect her, and that worried me.

Good thing we live far away, and there are no neighbors nearby to hear what we've been up to. Considering the closest police station is miles away, it must've taken these cops a while to get to us. Dumb asses only sent over two officers. I made sure there were no other cops hiding outside when I looked through the window. Good thing for us; I guess we weren't much of a concern yet.

The second they tell me they have evidence against Bella, all I can focus on is protecting her—no matter the cost. I can't give them a chance to talk to her because I know they'll break her. They won't let Bella go until she's in cuffs—I need to save her.

My confession to the murder of Tanya is out of my mouth before I can focus on the consequences of my actions. But I don't have time to process it when seconds after the last words leave my mouth, the sounds of gunshots ring throughout the air like a beautiful melody—many of them. My eyes shut as a natural reaction to the shock of the sound, but the moment that panic rises in my throat and I think of the worst, I feel warm sticky liquid splatter across my face.

My eyes snap open as one officer collapses to the floor at my feet in a pool of his blood. Seconds later, I see the head of the other one explode—mixture of brain matter, hair, blood, and skin explode into a million tiny particles—it happens before my eyes in slow motion. Their brains splatter across our mahogany wooden floors—how the fuck am I supposed to clean this?

I hear a malevolent giggle that makes my dick harden.

She's back.

My heart is racing wildly with thrill when I turn around to face the most sadistically, hauntingly gorgeous face—Marie. Her eyes and her smile—that's how I can always tell the difference. Her doe brown eyes become a pitch, midnight black that could kill with one look, and her plump lips carve into a devilish little grin.

She's my dark fairytale.

There is nothing else to do but run and change our identities. We're not losing each other, and if we have to go down in a blaze of glory, at least we'll have one another. I'd rather die with her than be without her. I know she's gonna punish me later though, for owning up to the police for the murder—I panicked and didn't know what else to do. I couldn't let them catch her. This time she was the one that saved me.

It's not the end of our story yet.

"Did you miss me, baby?" Marie purrs like a seductive siren.

Always.

My smile matches hers, but I may look more sadistic due to the alluring crimson blood that drips from my face. We both lost our minds a long time ago.

Although, she's the demon, and I'm her little pet. A match made in hell.

END