Happy Valentine's Day!

I'm so excited to be back with these two and all of you! This chapter takes place the February after the epilogue, so 14 months after their original meeting and subsequent road trip.

I noticed lots of you were worried Bella didn't tell Edward she was pregnant in her outtake, it's because she told him in the epilogue, which took place the next day. Sorry for the confusion!

Anyway, back to the now. Thank you to Fran for getting this chapter in ship-shape, like always.

Enjoy!

...

February 13, 2017

Manhattan, New York

Edward

The phone rang three times before Bella's beautiful voice came over the line. "Edward," she whispered my name like a prayer, and I frowned, pausing in my typing to focus on her.

"Are you okay?"

She was quiet a moment before she sniffled once. "Fine," she whispered. "I'm just missing you."

My whole body flinched at her confession, and I fought the urge to run off to the airport immediately.

"Fuck, Baby. I miss you so much." Bella sighed a little, and I felt the sound go straight through me. "Are you taking care of yourself?"

I'd left too much for her to take on. My fiancée was the strongest person I fucking knew, but even she had her limits, especially since she was pregnant.

"Yeah," she sniffled, and I imagined her wiping at her eyes. "Your parents have been awesome. Esme is over every day, helping me unpack, and Jasper and your dad came by over the weekend to help move furniture around."

I frowned, self-loathing swelling in me that I couldn't be there to help her. "You're not lifting heavy stuff, right?"

Bella sighed. "Edward, I'm pregnant, not disabled."

I shook my head. "Baby, please,"

She cut me off. "I'm taking it easy," she promised softly. "The office is almost done. I'm waiting for Jasper and your dad to come back to move some of the furniture around a bit more, but then it should be ready for you."

I shut my eyes, my elbows folding on my desk as my head landed in my hands. "I should be there."

Bella sighed. "Babe, you have to finish your commitments in New York. I'm fine, really. I'm just tired."

I frowned, shaking my head. She was right; I knew she was. I had to finish strong. If nothing else, I owed that to Marcus and Demetri.

I just hated how much I'd left on Bella's shoulders.

"Any idea when you'll be coming home?"

My eyes shut tight as I fought the shudder that wanted to run through me. I wanted to be home with Bella now.

"Soon," I promised. "I'm nearly done. I think I can manage to get everyone sorted by the end of the week."

Bella sighed. "Good." I frowned. The end of the week was still too fucking far away. "Hey, I heard back from Yale," Bella sniffled. I shifted in my seat.

"Yeah?"

Bella hummed. "They were impressed. I think they're going to publish my paper."

I couldn't help my fucking smile. "Of course, they are," I said, insanely proud of her. "They'd be insane to pass it up, and they know it."

Bella snorted. "Babe, they have a pretty prestigious faculty. In the world of academia, I think I'm just another name."

I rolled my eyes. "Hardly."

Bella had decided she didn't want to take on too much during her pregnancy. She wanted to work in some way, but with the move mixed in, she wasn't comfortable starting somewhere right away. So instead, she was taking time to focus on getting more of her papers published. She'd gotten an email from fucking Oxford last week, so I knew my girl was going to be dominating the academic world in no time.

"I'm so fucking proud of you, Bella."

I could practically see her blushing, humbly ducking her head and insisting it was nothing. She had no idea how fucking impressive she was.

For a moment, she was quiet, and I could guess she was thinking about her dad. I knew, based on the stories she'd told me, he'd be shouting from the top of Mount Rainier how proud he was of her.

"He'd be so proud of you too."

Bella knew who I was talking about, and I heard her sniff. "I wish he could have lived to see me move back home. I wish he could have met his grandchild." Her voice hitched, and my eyes squeezed shut; what I wouldn't give to be there, wrapping my arms around her.

"I know, baby. He's still here with you though, don't forget that."

Bella sniffed. "I know," she whispered. "I'm sorry. I'm getting all weepy. Alice said it didn't happen to her until later, but Kate said I'm practically running late with the hormones according to how her pregnancy went."

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help my smile. "You're perfect."

At that, Bella snorted, and I smiled. "I love you, you idiot," she whispered. I grinned.

"I love you so much. I'll be home as soon as I can," I promised. Bella sighed.

"I know. We're still on for our virtual date tomorrow?" she asked. I winced. Valentine's Day spent divided by the country.

"Absolutely," I whispered. Bella hummed.

"I can hear you pouting," she giggled. "Don't worry, Babe. I'll take good care of you."

Well, that sounded fucking promising. "Yeah? How so?"

Bella laughed. "Make sure your ass is at your computer tomorrow night to find out," she purred. I chuckled darkly.

"Baby, there is only one other place I'd rather be."

She sighed. "I love you."

I smiled. "I love you too."

We said our goodbyes, and I set my phone on my desk, letting out a long sigh. It had been two weeks that Bella had been out there on her own, dealing with all our shit while I finished out this final assignment for VI. We'd found a house in Washington pretty quickly, and after one short weekend visit, we were putting down an offer. Twelve hours later, the offer had been accepted. With the help of an accelerated escrow, we'd been able to close on the house at a whirlwind pace.

It felt like we'd been sprinting since then.

I sighed, turning back to my computer. I was nearly done with this final assignment. Finish strong. Wise advice from the wisest woman I fucking knew.

"Hey, Edward. Do you have a minute?"

I looked up at Marcus as he knocked lightly on my office door. I nodded, turning away from my computer. He came into the office, glancing around the space. I'd been moving my crap out the last couple of weeks, and all that was left was my briefcase nestled beside my desk. The moment I was done with this last assignment for VI, I was out of here, out to Washington to be with Bella.

"What's up?" I asked as Marcus settled into a chair across my desk. His brown eyes drifted back to me, and he offered me a small smile.

"I've just come to say goodbye."

I stared at him. Marcus and his wife were headed on vacation for her birthday, and in all likelihood, I would be gone by the time he came back.

I knew I was leaving, and I was excited about the move, but a tiny part of me hated to leave Marcus. He'd been absolutely instrumental in my career, and I owed him so much.

"Demetri and I were talking," Marcus said, pushing past the emotional pause in the room. "We wanted to send you off with a little reminder of us." Marcus held up a bag to me, and I frowned, reaching across the desk as he offered it to me. I reached in, pulling a flashy bottle of vodka out. I smiled, looking up at him.

"Thank you," I said quietly. Marcus nodded, smiling a little.

"You've meant a great deal to this company, Edward." His deep voice drew my attention back to him. "You've done exceptional work for us, and I couldn't be prouder of you." He paused, shaking his head slightly, and I shifted, uncomfortable with the sudden emotions coming from him. "You're a loyal bastard, Edward, and that means a lot to me. I know you're moving to start a new life with Bella, and I couldn't be happier for you," he said quickly when it looked like I was going to interject. I nodded. "I know how excited you are to start your family."

Marcus had been the first person I'd told outside of our family about Bella being pregnant. He'd been as supportive as expected, and it had meant a great deal to me to know he approved of Bella.

"I can't fucking wait to get home," I admitted. Marcus smiled.

"You're going to do great things, no matter where you end up," he said, shaking his head once. "I'm sorry it couldn't be here, but I'm glad to have gotten the chance to work with you anyway."

I bit the inside of my cheek, steeling myself to be vulnerable with him.

"I have to thank you, Marcus," I said softly. "You plucked me out of the crowd and taught me how to be a better lawyer, a better man." I paused, glancing at him. "I can't wait to get home to my family, but I regret leaving you. You've been the best mentor and friend anyone could ever ask for."

Marcus's eyes looked like they were getting a little watery, and he blinked, looking down at his lap. He cleared his throat before glancing back up at me.

"This won't be it for us, kid," he decided. "I can't wait to see what extraordinary things are in your future."

I smiled, feeling a little anxious at the prospect. Right now, my future was in Washington, unpacking boxes without me.

Marcus' head tilted to the side, and he eyed the computer. "You know, Edward. From what I remember from a couple of years ago, you work very well on the road."

I glanced up at him. His eyes were twinkling with mischief as he glanced around the room. He looked back at me and smirked. "I'm heading to the airport in twenty minutes. Want a ride?"

…

The last time I'd left New York on such short notice, there had been a winter storm and a tiny ass car with a crazy woman behind the wheel to deter me. It was the best fucking thing that had ever happened to me.

It took me all of two minutes to pack up the remainder of my office. I was staying in a hotel across the street from the office since we'd moved out of the apartment before Bella left, so after dashing over to collect my nearly packed bag, I was back in the parking garage to meet Marcus with two minutes to spare.

He smiled at me as we climbed into the car. I couldn't believe this was how I was leaving VE, but honestly, at this point, it didn't matter. Bella was my future, and I couldn't wait to be headed toward her.

Marcus and I drove toward the airport in relative silence. I suppose there was a lot to say, but, this had always been our relationship; Marcus held a quiet space for me, and I was free to speak or to stay as silent as I felt. It was an underrated quality in him I'd only recently grown to appreciate.

Marcus parked in long term parking, and we both climbed out, heading inside the terminal. He was flying with Delta, and I stepped up to their counter behind him, intent to buy a ticket. When I had everything sorted, we moved through security together, only separating once we were through. He turned to me, offering me a warm, fatherly smile.

"Take care, Edward," he said, shaking my hand. I nodded soberly.

"You too. Thank you, for everything Marcus."

He smiled and clapped a hand on my shoulder. "We'll see each other soon."

I nodded, and he turned, heading down to his gate. I took a deep breath as I watched him go, and with a determined resolve in my heart, I turned to head to my own gate, my own future.

…

I stared up at the house, my heart thumping heavily in my chest. I couldn't believe I was finally here.

I headed up the walkway, my eagerness pushing me to a near run. I reached the front door and found it unlocked. I was relieved because I didn't have keys yet, but annoyed that Bella had left it unsecured. I'd have to talk to her about it later.

I stepped inside, and immediately, it felt like home. I could smell Bella in the entry, and though there were boxes still stacked around the place, I could see things she'd unpacked and set up. Touches of our life together were starting to fill the space, and I couldn't wait to fill it more.

I set my suitcase by the front door and shucked off my coat, hanging it on a peg by the door. I could hear soft music coming from somewhere downstairs, and I smiled, wandering into the house. I tried to take in what Bella had unpacked and set up, but really, I was so focused on getting to her that it was difficult to slow down enough to really notice. There would be time later for absorbing.

Bella was in the dining room, a large glass of water next to her as she worked at the table. Her back was to me, and I took a moment to savor the sight of her. She was so fucking beautiful and just seeing her released the tension in me.

Bella was humming along to her music as she tapped gently on her laptop, and part of me wanted to stand here and watch her forever. Another, stronger part wanted to go to her; hold her in my arms; I needed to feel her again.

"Hm," she whispered, and I paused, interested in listening to her. "What do you think Daddy will like more," she asked, bringing a hand up to her belly and rubbing it gently. I fucking broke then and moved toward her. She was looking at light fixtures on her laptop, presumably for the office, but I didn't fucking care right now. "He might like this one," Bella murmured, her mouse hovering over a lamp. "But it's too dark. Daddy needs a lighter space to work to keep his mood up."

I smiled, tears in my eyes as I finally spoke. "I see you're taking care of me down to the smallest details."

Bella screamed, jumping up from the table and whirling around. One hand was clutching the table, while the other clutched at her heart. "Edward, what?" She choked. I moved to her, pulling her into my arms.

"I couldn't do it anymore," I whispered, running a hand down her back. "I needed you. I needed to be home."

Bella's eyes welled with tears, and I could still see her heartbeat racing at the pulse in her neck. "I'm sorry I scared you, Baby."

She reached up, her hands grasping my face and pulling me down to kiss her. I groaned, and she used the leverage of the table to climb up and wind her legs around my waist. "Fucking hell," she gasped, wrenching her mouth from mine. "I have so much adrenaline running through me right now," she panted. "I love you. Make love to me."

They were the best fucking words I could have ever hoped to hear.

I pushed her back onto the table, making sure she had a secure seat as I leaned into her. Her hands were every-fucking-where, and I dragged my mouth from hers, sucking in a sharp breath. I wasn't going to last with her writhing around, grinding into me as her body undulated over the table. It had been too long. I dove my hands into her hair, steading her head as I kissed her slowly, trying to regain some of my control. She mewled against me, her legs winding around my hips and slamming me against her. I gasped, nearly tumbling over her as she hiked her legs up over my hips. "Fuck, baby."

Her hands reached up, tugging at my shirt, sending the buttons flying as she yanked impatiently. "Edward, I need you," she groaned one hand diving to my belt and somehow getting my pants open in record time. She was a wildcat, all over the place, and it took everything in me to keep up with her.

I reached out, yanking her sweater up over her body, and she rolled away from me long enough for me to rip it off her and toss it across the room. She let go of my pants long enough to reach up and undo her bra before her fingers were back working on my zipper. I shrugged my shirt off my shoulders, and her glorious soft chest came crashing against mine, her skin warm and pink with her flush. I wanted to worship her, but she was very clearly on a mission. I almost laughed as I bent down to trail kisses from her ear, down her throat. Her fingers fumbled over my pants, and I felt her hands grab my waist, pulling me closer to her as I nipped and sucked my way down her neck to her chest.

"Fuck, yes, that!" Her eyes were closed, her head thrown back as I took one of her sensitive nipples into my mouth. She hissed, her nails scratching lightly into my back, and I took the encouragement, teasing her with my tongue. Last time we'd been together, her breasts had been too tender for me to go near. I was glad that things had changed, and if they hadn't, at least she was getting pleasure out of it now.

Her nails raked lightly up my back, and I nipped gently at her nipple. She gasped, her hands flying to my hair, holding me to her as I gently released that breast and kissed and sucked my way to her other. She was wild under me, her breathy moans and gasps urging me forward, onward. "Fuck, you're so sensitive," I murmured against her skin. She made a throaty sound, her eyes flickering up to mine. "I bet I could make you come just like this."

Her eyes darkened, and her tongue slipped out of her mouth, swiping across her lips. "Yes," she murmured. I reached up to trace a finger around her belly, the small swell of it making me smile. "Let's test that out later, though," she sat up, reaching for my pants again and managing to shove them down my legs. "Right now, I just need to feel you inside me."

Fuck, she was so incredible. I kicked off my pants and underwear and then reached up to pull off her leggings. She wasn't wearing underwear underneath them, and I eyed her in surprise. She shrugged, settling back on the table, bringing her heels up the edge of the surface, opening herself to me. There was a challenge in her beautiful dark eyes, and my gaze dropped between her legs. Even from here, I could see how wet she was. I sucked in a sharp breath, dropping to my knees before her.

"Edward," she breathed, reaching to pull me up. I shook my head, grabbing her hips and scooting her to the edge of the table.

"I need to taste you, baby."

She groaned as I leaned in, inhaling her deeply. She smelled dark and musty and so fucking good. Her hips were grinding in front of me, desperately seeking friction, and I leaned forward, my tongue licking at her quickly. She gasped, her head flying back, and it was all I needed. I worked her over with my tongue, savoring the incoherent mumbles flying from her lips as she drew closer and closer to the edge. I brought my right hand, trailing it over the sensitive flesh on the inside of her thigh. She was quivering under my touch, so close to coming apart. I smiled against her and gave her another lick as two fingers plunged into her, pumping and pulling, finding that spot in her that made her lose her fucking mind. She shattered on the table, her back arching so hard, she was almost sitting upright. I kissed my way up her body as she rode her orgasm, her body shaking with the strength of it. I leaned over her, smiling gently, kissing her throat, her collar bones, her cheek. A few minutes later, she blinked, looking over at me, her eyes clearing some.

"Fuck, I love you," she whispered, reaching up to my face, bringing me down to kiss her. Our tongues slipped together languidly, and I felt her legs go around my waist. I shifted, aligning myself at her entrance, and entered her slowly, our tongues still locked together. She gasped as I filled her, and we broke apart, both of us taking a minute to revel in the feeling of being together again, finally.

She shifted under me, and I smiled, reaching down to kiss her as I pumped in and out of her slowly. Her hips grew more urgent, and her hands swept up my back, scratching lightly. I smiled against her mouth, setting a faster pace, giving in to her demanding little body.

Bella broke from the kiss, sucking in a ragged breath, and I buried my face in her neck as I pounded into her. She pressed her heels into my ass, urging me harder, and I obliged. I could feel her body coiling, so close to coming again, and I reached down, kissing my way to her chest again. I nipped at one of her nipples, tweaking the other with my fingers, and she shattered, pulling my own orgasm out of me. I nearly went blind with the strength of it, and I collapsed on top of her, my energy draining immediately and completely.

Eventually, I shifted, mindful not to squish her. She sat up and pulled me down onto the floor with her, so we were sprawled out on the hardwood in the dining room. It was uncomfortable, but I didn't care. I wrapped my arms around her, kissing her head softly. She snuggled into my chest. "I love you so much, Bella."

She sighed against my chest, placing a gentle kiss over my heart. "I missed you."

I squeezed her tighter. "I couldn't do it anymore," I murmured. "I couldn't be away anymore. I needed you."

She glanced up at me through her lashes and smiled. "I'm glad."

I reached down, stroking her cheek softly. Finally, after weeks of feeling off, I felt whole again. How did she manage to do that?

"I have a surprise for you," Bella whispered, her voice gentle, her eyes warm and soft. I hummed.

"It can wait," I groaned, wrapping her tighter in my arms. She smiled and leaned over to kiss my bicep as she sat up slightly, pushing up onto her elbows.

"Actually, I don't think it can."

I looked up at her curiously, and she bit her lip. God, she was so fucking beautiful. "What is it?"

She looked anxious but so excited, and she scrambled to her feet, reaching out to offer me her hand. I smiled, and once I was standing, I took her hand. We were both butt naked, but she led me through the house, past rooms that were partially unpacked, and into the living room. Bella grinned and pushed me onto the sofa. Did she want another round here? I'd happily oblige.

"I'll be right back. I need to go get it," she said, leaning down to kiss me swiftly. She was gone before I could say anything, and I watched, amused as she skipped out of the room. I took a moment to look around the living room. It was coming along really well. We ended up selling a lot of our furniture and decor in New York, and when Bella had started unpacking here, I'd told her to buy what she liked. I couldn't imagine she'd decorate in a way I didn't like. Bella hadn't been too picky about it either, and in the end, my mom had come in and helped Bella design most of the rooms so far. I could see my mom's clear designer influence, but I could also see where Bella had stepped in, selecting something that was so us. The room was fucking perfect, and I loved her so much more for making it this way.

I heard her gentle footsteps, and I looked up over the sofa, waiting for her to appear again. "Close your eyes," she called to me. I smirked but did as she bid. I felt her come around the sofa, and then she was setting one of the throw blankets on my lap. I frowned, and Bella giggled. "Open."

My eyes opened and settled immediately on the puppy in Bella's arms. She was dressed in a robe, and the puppy was curled sleepily against her chest. I gaped at it, then her. "Surprise," she said anxiously.

I let out a soft laugh, shaking my head and reaching out to scratch the puppy's soft head. It nuzzled into my hand, and Bella offered it out, setting it in my lap over the blanket.

"Who is this?"

Bella settled next to me on the sofa, biting her lip. "This is Justice," she whispered. I looked up at her, smirking, and she grinned. "I couldn't help myself. A family down the street was giving away the litter they had, and I just…" she paused, again biting her lip. "Edward, he's so cute, and I know it's a lot to take on a puppy and a baby and a new house and new job," she was rambling, and I laughed, reaching out to silence her with a kiss. I leaned back and rubbed Justice's soft head. He was a ball of soft fur, but he was quite big already.

"What kind of dog is he?"

Bella leaned an arm up on the back of the sofa. "The mom is a Bernese Mountain Dog. The dad is a Pyrenees."

I looked at her. "Wow, big dogs."

Bella bit her lip again. "I'm sorry I didn't talk to you about this first. It was so impulsive, but I was out walking the other day, and I passed their house, and the puppies were out, and he came barreling toward me, and I just melted."

I shook my head, reaching out to her, kissing her soundly again. "Baby, he's beautiful."

Bella eyed me anxiously. "You're okay with him?"

I smiled, reaching out to cup her face with my free hand. "Yes. Thank you so much for this wonderful surprise."

Bella smiled and nuzzled into my hand. I looked down at the dog in my lap, who was snoozing lightly. "Justice, huh?"

Bella giggled and kissed my palm. "I couldn't help it."

I laughed and reached out to stroke her cheek. "I like it."

She smiled and leaned into my shoulder, sighing as she wound her arms around me. "I can't believe you're finally home," she groaned. I smiled and kissed the top of her head as the puppy in my lap yawned and shifted.

"There is nowhere I'd rather be."

…

Justice was cute, but a few hours after we finally crashed in our bed, I understood why Bella had apologized so much. He was awake, in his crate, whining to go out. Bella groaned and got out of bed, mumbling about taking the dog out to pee, and I flopped back on the bed. It was just past one in the morning, which was four in the morning for me. I could probably get up now and function fine, but I wanted to adjust to west coast time as quickly as possible, so I stayed in bed.

Bella came back about ten minutes later, putting the puppy back in his crate. He whined as she went to the bathroom and washed her hands. The bed dipped, and I looked over at her as she climbed back under the covers. "How many times a night does he go out?"

"About two," she yawned. "He'll be up again in four hours or so."

I nodded. "I'll take him out next time," I told her. In the dark, I could see her smile as she scooted across the bed and curled into my side. My arms went around her automatically, her soft strawberry scent washing over me.

"I guess he's good practice," Bella murmured. "For when this one comes," she moved her hand over her stomach, and in the dark, my hand met hers there. Her fingers threaded through mine, and I pressed a kiss into her hair.

"I can't wait," I admitted. I felt Bella smile against my chest.

"Me either."

We both quickly fell asleep, despite Justice's puppy noises coming from his crate.

…

Jet lag got the better of me, and three short hours later, I was wide awake. It was seven in New York, and I usually was in the office by now. Bella was still passed out; her long hair fanned out over her pillow as she slept on her side, reaching toward me. I took a moment to watch her in the dark, my heart squeezing painfully with how much I loved her. To think our paths crossed by utter chance was a miracle. I hated thinking about how close we might have come to never meeting.

I'd be a broken man without the incredible woman beside me. I couldn't wait to marry her.

After the demise of my first marriage, it had taken me by surprise how quickly and readily I was lining up to marry again. Rose and Bella were completely different women, and intellectually, I understood the situations were not the same; however, I had to see my therapist for weeks to fully comprehend. When I thought about my future and could no longer imagine it without Bella, I knew I was ready. When Rose and I were about to get married, my future had been all about me and my career. In hindsight, it should have been one of the red flags along the way for us.

Bella let out a gentle sigh, her hand sliding up the bed to reach out for me. "I love you, Edward," she murmured. I smiled, my heart squeezing again. Bella didn't often talk in her sleep, but I absolutely loved when she did. I leaned over, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead.

"I love you so much, Bella."

She didn't stir, and as quietly as I could, I slipped out of bed. In his cage, Justice perked up, seeing me standing. He stood, his tail thumping loudly as he saw me come over to him, and I tried to shush him.

It was useless.

I pulled him out of his cage, picking him up to take him downstairs. I stopped to grab a pair of slippers and my robe from where Bella had placed it on the back of the door before we went. Justice wiggled in my arms desperately, and I took him straight into the backyard, unlocking the French door and stepping out into the freezing February morning. I swore and moved quickly to the grass to put him down. He galloped into the grass as I pulled my robe around me, shivering lightly. Justice peed, and I kept an eye on him to see if he was going to shit on the lawn too. I really didn't mind having a dog, but I absolutely refused to have shit everywhere.

He wandered around the yard, sniffing at the flowerbeds in the dark. My breath clouded in front of me as I watched him, and I took a moment to appreciate the cold, morning air. It was still dark out, but very slowly, I could hear life starting to wake up around me.

Eventually, I called Justice over, and to my surprise, he came running. I doubted he knew his name yet, and likely he'd only come running because I'd called out, but I smiled down at him as he struggled up the deck steps to reach me. I turned toward the house and headed back to the French door, pulling it open and stepping inside. I whistled for Justice to follow me, and the sound caught his attention, but he stood on the deck, looking at me with a cocked head. I shook my head, barking out a low laugh. "Come on, let's get inside. I'll give you breakfast or something."

Eventually, he came over, and I shut the door, moving to the kitchen to start a pot of coffee. Justice wandered into the living room, and idly I wondered if he should be left alone. Was he potty trained yet? I'd be pissed if I found shit on the rug.

I went to the living room to check on him while the coffee brewed, and he was lying on the rug, happily chewing on a toy. I smiled at his cute little puppy face and shook my head, heading back to the kitchen.

When the coffee was made, I poured some out into a mug and checked the time. It was only four-thirty. I doubted the paper was delivered yet.

Instead, I went into the living room and sat on the sofa with my coffee. Justice got up and came around to lay closer to my feet, and I smiled.

He chewed happily on his toy while I sipped my coffee and tried to wrap my head around finally being home.

I had so much to do, so much to arrange and set up, but there was really only one thing I had on my mind, the most important thing that needed to be taken care of.

I got up and found my phone, still in the pocket of my coat by the front door. It was just past five. I tapped my phone in my palm, considering it for a moment before sighing. I shot off the text to Alice and my mom, hoping I wasn't going to wake them. I went back to the living room, and Justice followed. I hadn't even noticed him follow me when I went to get my phone.

I settled back in the living room and was surprised when Alice texted me back. I frowned and dialed her number.

"Hey, Edward," she said, sounding wide awake.

"What are you doing up so early?"

She hummed. "Tyler," she said by way of explanation. I let out a breath, nodding to myself. "What's up?"

I shook my head and took a deep breath. "I need your advice."

My conversation with Alice lasted almost forty minutes, and by the time we hung up, I felt better. I hadn't told her I was back in Seattle, mostly because I knew she'd demand to see me and today was Valentine's day. I didn't want to see anyone until at least Friday.

At six, Justice started whining, and when I opened the back door, and he refused to go out, I figured he was probably hungry; I was too, having skipped dinner last night. So I set about getting him some food before making breakfast for Bella and me.

I was relieved to see the kitchen was mostly unpacked. Bella had a tendency to not eat when she was stressed. Silently, I thanked God she was pregnant. If nothing else, it would keep her eating through the move.

We didn't have much by way of food, and mentally I made a grocery list of items we'd have to pick up later. Still, I was able to find enough to make Bella some crepes.

I found sausages in the freezer and was able to thaw them quickly, frying them to go with the meal. I made myself an omelet, and when the food was done, I piled it onto a large tray. Making sure the dog stayed out from under my feet, I headed upstairs, nudging the bedroom door open. Bella was still sleeping, and I smiled at the sight of her. Just looking at her made me catch my breath. Briefly, I wondered if it would always be like that.

I set the tray on my side of the bed and came around, sitting gently beside Bella. I leaned over her, kissing the corner of her mouth gently. She turned into my kiss, her eyes fluttering open. "Good morning, baby."

Her eyes lit up, and I felt like I'd just found a cure for cancer. "You're here," she murmured, reaching up and running her hands through my hair. I smiled, kissing her tenderly.

"Yeah, baby. I'm here. I'm not going anywhere else."

Bella hummed, and I could see the playful mischief in her eyes. I smiled, shaking my head. "We need to eat first," I said gently. She blinked, blushing lightly.

"Sometimes I forget about things like food when I look at you," she murmured, one of her hands coming down to scratch gently against my stubble. I smiled and kissed her palm.

"Me too," I murmured. I glanced up at the tray. "Sit up, baby; I brought you breakfast in bed."

Her eyes fucking lit up, and she scrambled to a sitting position, her eyes raking over the tray. "Are those crepes?" she squeaked. I chuckled and stood, moving around the bed and situating the tray. I climbed up next to her and nodded, angling half the tray toward her.

"They are, indeed."

"Oh, Edward," she pounced on me, mindful not to knock over the tray. I wrapped my arms around her, smiling against her mouth. "God, you are so romantic," she breathed, sitting back, her face gazing up at me lovingly. I felt myself blush a little, and I shrugged, slightly embarrassed. She brought the feelings out in me.

She kissed my chin before settling back and reaching for her plate. She licked her lips, her eyes alight with her joy.

We tucked into our food, both of us hungrier than we realized. Bella made little groaning, mewling sounds that were thoroughly distracting.

Several times, I couldn't help myself, and I leaned over to kiss her. She tasted sweet, like her breakfast, and it made me smile.

"So, now that you're home, what do you want to do?" Bella asked. I took a breath and lookedat her.

"I know we need to finish the house, and I need to get ready to start work and everything," I paused, frowning. "But there is really only one thing that is my top priority." She gazed up at me curiously, and I bit the inside of my cheek before telling her. "I can't wait anymore. I want to marry you. Sooner rather than later."

Bella's mouth dropped open. "When you say sooner?"

I licked my lips. "March 4th."

"That's like two weeks away." I couldn't tell how Bella felt based on her tone, and I watched her, anxious.

"It is."

Her eyes widened, and she pushed the plate away, turning to face me, her knees gently knocking against me as she settled in. "Where is this coming from? I thought you wanted to get married in the summer."

I sighed. "Baby, I'd marry you today if I thought I could get away with it," I muttered. Bella's eyes widened further. "I love you. I want to be married to you, more than anything. I want our child to know we didn't marry because we had to, because of the pregnancy, that we married because we love each other."

Bella's eyes filled with tears, and she climbed into my lap. "Babe, of course, they will know we love each other," she said gently, brushing her fingers lightly through my hair. My eyes shut as I leaned my forehead against hers. "Why March 4th?"

I opened my eyes and looked at her. She didn't look pissed, which I took as a good sign. "It was all I could bargain for with Alice. Apparently, she had all these plans for you."

Bella scowled lightly, and I smiled, reaching up to cup her face in my hands. "I'd marry you today too," she whispered, her lips coming down to trace my lips. I opened my mouth, and she smiled, shaking her head and leaning back again. "Babe, we have friends on the East Coast who need more time to make it over here," she giggled in reminder. I huffed. Right. I really did want Marcus and Demitri to make it to the wedding, and I knew Bella wanted Bree here. "Besides," Bella said, drawing my attention to her, "I think I promised to take very good care of you today, Mr. Cullen. Wouldn't want guests to intrude on that, now would we?"

My mouth went dry as I focused on her. Her eyes were dark, mysterious, gorgeous.

"No way in hell," I breathed. She grinned and reached up, kissing the corner of my mouth. I leaned into her, twisting to capture her mouth more fully, but she giggled and climbed out of my lap. I pouted as she moved out of my grasp.

"All in good time," she promised. "First, I need to make a call."

I frowned. "To who?" It was still early, and as far as I was concerned, there wasn't anyone more important than who was in this room.

Bella reached for her phone beside the bed and picked it up, her eyes locking on mine. She brought it to her ear and smiled when I stared back at her, baffled. "Good morning, Esme," she said, her tone light, and I frowned, even more confused. "Yes, fine," she giggled, and I couldn't help but smile at the sweet sound. "Mhmm, I have," she paused, her eyes locking on mine, and she bit her lip. "Yes. In fact, I was wondering if you'd be available to puppy sit today?" My eyebrows shot up in understanding, and Bella grinned. "Um, yes, we do." She blushed, and I could only guess what Mom was saying to her. "Thank you, Esme; I'll walk him over soon. See you then."

She hung up and tossed her phone on the nightstand. I smiled at her, eyeing her appreciatively. She had slept in one of my T-shirts and nothing else. "So my mom is puppy sitting?" I asked. Bella nodded, biting at her lip as her eyes focused on me. "How long?"

Bella blushed, and I smiled wickedly. "Your mom assumed we'd need the night."

I paused. "Does she know I'm back?"

Bella blushed harder and shook her head. I barked out a laugh, feeling awkward but grateful.

"Well, I suppose we should get dressed and walk him over," I said slowly. Bella blinked in surprise.

"You want to walk over with me?" I cocked my head at her, and she bit her lip. "I figured you wouldn't want anyone to know for at least a couple of days," she said, her cheeks a delicious pink. I grinned. How fucking well this woman knew me.

"You're right, but I'm feeling generous. We'll walk the dog over, and tomorrow they can have me back. Today, it's you and me."

Bella's thighs rubbed together, and she smiled a small coy smile. "Deal."

With the strength of a thousand men, I left her alone to get dressed while I took the breakfast dishes downstairs. Justice was still chewing with a toy and happy enough on his own. I ran upstairs to get dressed before coming back down and finding the dog's leash by the front door. How I missed it when I came in last night, I had no idea.

As soon as Justice heard his leash, he came tearing to the front door, puppy barking loudly. Bella came downstairs and smiled when she saw me clipping him into his harness. "Ready?"

She nodded, and I held my hand out to her. We left the house, climbing down the front walkway and through the gate. Bella's hand was wound in mine, and as we walked the path toward my parents' house, she stopped to wave at neighbors as they drove by, heading out for work. I enjoyed seeing her so comfortable in the neighborhood already.

I'd never been what could be described as domestic, but Bella had changed that with her love. She was changing a lot about me even over a year after we'd first met and gazing down at her, flush and glowing with pregnancy and the cute but hyper puppy that pulled in front of us, I realized that there was nowhere on this Earth I'd rather be.

No version of Edward Cullen was ever a better or luckier man than who I was right now.

...

Oh these two! I want to just keep writing everyday moments with them, but I do actually have a plan for them over this year. It shan't be too long until my next update with these two. Until then, thank you to everyone who voted for Along the Way in the twific recommendations poll for December of 2020. The story came in 5th, which is so amazing, and so humbling!

If you're interested in chatting between updates, find me on Facebook. If we don't have mutual friends in common, please send me a message to let me know you are legit. I get a lot of spam accounts trying to add me, and I've since ignored people I don't have mutual friends with.

Until next time, my dears! xx