AN: What's this? An update? Haha! Believe me, I'm just as shocked.

I've been having a small surge of creativity and I am doing my best to take advantage of it.

I still of feel a little rusty and my writing doesn't flow as naturally as it did before, but I'm grateful baby is allowing it to happen.

Thank you to my wonderful pre-readers and Beta.

Hope you enjoy this!

:) Krida

Chapter 9

"When your day is long
And the night, the night is yours alone
When you're sure you've had enough
Of this life, well hang on

Don't let yourself go
'Cause everybody cries
Everybody hurts sometimes"

R.E.M

Pushing open the heavy door of the main entrance, I feel my legs turn into lead as an overwhelming rush of emotion suddenly encompasses me, threatening to devour me whole. I'm not surprised by this reaction, confrontation and honesty has never been easy for me, but that doesn't make this any less terrifying.

That familiar sense of panic is slowly simmering, but after years of practice, I'm pleased to find that my mastered response has become instinctual. Immediately, I turn my attention inwards, ready to do what I need to do to calm rising the storm. Carefully, I clear my mind, focusing in on each of my senses, as I desperately try to ignore the adrenaline pooling into my veins. It's a technique I've been forced to perfect for years now, and one I desperately wish I didn't need.

Curling my fingers around the wooden doorframe, I steady myself as I try to look past the war raging on inside, searching for something... anything that might distract me and soothe the rising panic pumping through me. It takes a while, but soon a flicker of something soft lightly caressing my skin breaks through the darkness. Homing in on this small glimmer of hope, it doesn't take long for me to recognize the light touch as the weakening rays of the late afternoon sun. Keeping my eyes closed, I turn all of my attention on the way the rays move and how they feel as they brush across my skin. Focusing solely on the positive, I make sure to genuinely appreciate each and every stroke and subtle movement. Luckily, this is enough for my panic attack to slowly abate. A ghost of a smile tugs at my lips.

Inhaling deeply, I move my focus to my sense of smell. Meticulously, I begin to analyze how the crisp air of late summer feels as it fills my lungs to full capacity, before I slowly let it go by releasing a deep breath. I do this several times and with each breath I feel how the storm of emotions slowly begins to ebb away, pride and a hint of confidence taking its place.

Jasper would be proud.

Relaxing the tight grip I have on the wooden doorframe, I carefully open my eyes, squinting a little as they adjust. After having spent hours inside of Edward's dark tasting room, it feels quite liberating too finally be outside. My conversation with Alice and now my narrowly averted panic attack, only enhances this emotion. Before I have a chance to truly appreciate the moment and take in my incredible surroundings, I'm distracted by the soft sounds of movement coming from the perfectly lined rows of apple trees nearby. Anticipation and a rush of excitement immediately envelop me, and although I can't see him yet, every single cell in my body knows exactly who is approaching.

Dragging my fingers nervously through my short hair, I manage to pull back a few stray blond strands from my face, just in time as his tall frame appears from behind the first row of trees. As always, my breath catches at the sight of him, and a familiar swarm of butterflies take flight, fluttering their wings excitedly deep within my chest. Making it hard to breathe.

Christ, he's beautiful.

Although we've just spent the day together, bantering back and forth like old friends, my initial reaction to him is still the same as it has always been; a gigantic ball of nerves and self-doubt. However, when his striking green eyes instantly lock onto mine, it dawns on me that something indeed has changed. A jolt of something powerful passes between us and for a second, I lose my breath.

After years of loving him from the safety of the shadows; of never once really being acknowledged… I've suddenly been thrown off the deep end without even the slightest inkling of how to swim. Because now, for the first time, I'm not just some bystander anymore and every piece of my soul recognizes the difference. The intense look in his eye makes me feel both special and important. Holy Fuck, he actually sees me! And I have absolutely no clue as to how I should deal with it.

Unable to move or even look away, I remain frozen in my spot, my mind whirling at this strange revelation, watching him as he closes the distance between us with determined strides. I almost don't notice the full basket of bright pink apples that he's carrying until he stops directly in front of me and bends down to place them directly at my feet like some peace offering. When he straightens, I can't help but notice how the raised deck has completely eliminated our height difference, bringing our eyes to the same level; successfully making it impossible for me to look away.

His expression is hesitant, and I get the sense that he too notices the subtle change between us. Relief washes over me, and I feel my shoulders drop ever so slightly at the idea that we're in this together. When his stunning jade eyes flicker to the building behind me, quickly followed by the hint of a sheepish smile twitching across his pink lips, I feel even more of the tension between us fade.

"How much trouble am I in?"

My cheeks heat as he dials up his charm, a technique I've witnessed him use on females of all ages back when we were in High School.

Christ, that shit should come with some kind of warning label.

FEMALES BEWARE!

The fact that I'm privy to quite a few of his personal "tells" (thanks to all the hours I spent studying him when I first moved to Forks) allows me to keep my cool and not become overly "dazzled" by him. A sharp laugh falls from my lips before I can even consider stopping it. My reaction clearly taking him by surprise.

"With me or with your sister?"

I cross my arms over my chest and tip my chin up, raising myself to my full height, as I fix him with the most serious and annoyed expression, I'm able to muster. Unfortunately, Edward's confused, and stuttering response makes it impossible for me to hold it for very long.

"Uuh."

As I break my façade, I feel my entire body lighten up at his relieved smile and raspy chuckle. I'm pleased to see his cheeks flush ever so slightly and I soon join him with a genuine laugh of my own. As our laughter dies down, I grow increasingly aware of his every move as he takes the smallest step forward, leaning against the railing, his hand resting so close to mine that we almost touch. A shiver of pleasure runs down my spine when I'm hit by a whiff of his spicy scent and instinctively, I feel myself lean forward, searching for more. Realization dawns and I quickly pull back before I make a fool out of myself. Needing a distraction, I quickly turn my attention to the bulging basket at my feet.

"This a peace offering?"

The light and carefree tone between us continues, and I'm pleased to see that he has the decency to look just a smidge guilty. He did just throw me into the lion's den by giving Alice free reign.

"I'll have you know that those are some award-winning Pink Ladies, right there."

He raises an expectant eyebrow as though he's waiting for me to "ooh" and "aah" at the incredible prize he has bestowed upon me. I shake my head at his lack of apology, but both of us appear to find it impossible to keep a straight face and soon we both break out into yet another light laugh. Once again, Edward sends a look towards the main entrance.

"You deserve a lot more than a basket of some award-winning apples after having to deal with my sister, but alas," he pauses, shrugging his shoulders innocently. "It was the only thing I had on hand."

I purse my lips in response. An idea forming in my head as I realize we probably don't have much time before said sister suddenly appears. Holding Edward's gaze for a moment, I bend down and hook the heavy basket over my arm. As I straighten, I make sure to release a deep and dejected sigh while I drop my shoulders in mock defeat.

"Well," my eyes find his "it's been nice knowing you, Edward."

Before he has a chance to respond, I quickly brush past him, moving with haste in the direction of my truck. It doesn't take long for Edward to catch up with me, his much longer legs giving him quite a bit of an advantage in that department. When his fingers lightly touch my elbow, I feel a ripple of such intense pleasure and surprisingly my knees buckle ever so slightly, sending me off balance. Edward's fingers tighten around my elbow, his other hand locking around my waist as he pulls me against him to steady me. His intoxicating scent immediately washes over me, making me feel lightheaded.

"Careful," he whispers, his deep tone revealing a raspy edge to it that makes my heart race.

Unable to move away from his tight hold, I instinctively curl my fingers around the warm skin of his bare forearm as I hesitantly lift my gaze to find his. The moment our eyes meet, I feel a sizzle of something alluring slither down my spine and my breath hitches at the intense and smoldering look he is sending my way.

Is that lu…?

Before I have time to complete my line of thought, Edward's expression changes to one of pure friendship and wicked humor.

"You okay there, Bambi?" he teases.

Needing to get back at him, somehow, I lightly pinch his arm. The dramatic way in which he releases me and then doubles over in excruciating pain makes me laugh.

"Bambi?" I ask when I've finally caught my breath.

He simply grins.

This time when he touches my arm to relieve me of the heavy basket of apples, I do my best not to react. Instead, I simply raise my eyebrows at him silently repeating my question. His green eyes sparkle with mischief and I feel my heart warm with how young and carefree he looks in this moment.

"If I remember correctly, back in high school you weren't always so steady on your feet, Bella," he smiles and for a moment I'm at a loss for words.

He's correct, of course. With all my issues, I'd easily get lost in my own head, which in turn made me incredibly clumsy. Terrified that other people would notice and laugh at me, I made sure to keep to myself. I usually hid out in the shadows and made sure to stay out of everyone's way, so the fact that Mr. Popular; the one and only Edward Cullen, knew this particular tidbit about me shocks me. Feeling my cheeks heat, I avert my gaze, looking straight ahead to keep myself from stumbling and embarrassing myself even further.

I wasn't that scared, insecure girl anymore.

"Of course, the amounts of alcohol you recently consumed probably hasn't helped," he offers, giving me a small excuse.

I don't respond, keeping my attention fixed on the road ahead of me.

"My truck is over there."

Edward points to shiny, monster of a vehicle parked to the far right of my pitiful excuse of a truck. Out of nowhere, I'm struck by an almost crippling feeling of inadequacy and self-doubt, forcing me to a stop. Looking away, I allow my eyes to flit across the rows upon rows of perfectly planted trees as I try to get a firm grip on my emotions. Biting my bottom lip nervously, I try to come up with an escape plan.

"Edward-," I begin after a short pause, my voice trailing off when his long fingers suddenly curl around mine. Apparently holding hands is something we do now.

My eyes immediately fly to his and I'm surprised by both his proximity and the look of remorse that I find in his gaze.

"I'm sorry I teased you about the Bambi thing," he begins, his tone contrite.

Holding his gaze, I notice how he flickers his line of sight downwards, to our joined hands for a moment before quickly returning to mine as though he's checking to see if I'm okay with him holding my hand. This simple, yet incredibly compassionate gesture makes my throat grow tight and my heart melt.

"Is that what people used to call me?" I whisper, my question rawer and more vulnerable than I'd anticipated.

Edward takes a small step closer, squeezing my fingers gently.

"No, Jesus, Bella," he releases a sharp breath. "I don't think anyone really noticed you, to be honest. You were pretty good at staying under the radar, which I think was part of your master plan."

We share a small smile.

"But you did?" the question falls from my lips before I can stop it, and I immediately feel my heartbeats accelerate as I await his answer.

"Well, yeah," he admits with a timid half smile before averting his gaze.

"I noticed you."

His thumb begins a subtle movement, drawing a circular shape on the sensitive skin between my thumb and index finger. Feeling a little overwhelmed by both his gentle touch and soft admission, I discreetly clear my throat.

"I need to go home."

Edward's attention is fixed on our joined hands, his thumb continuously moving across my skin, but after a short while he slowly bobs his head.

"I was thinking maybe-," I begin.

This time Edward is quick to respond, his vibrant eyes determined as they fly to mine as he cuts me off.

"You are not setting foot in that death trap, until I've had someone have a look at it."

I follow his lead and interrupt him with the same decisive tone.

"I wasn't going to drive, you idiot. I'm the Police Chief's daughter for Christ's sake and I've been drinking."

Edward looks confused, but I'm not done.

Removing my hand from his, I locate my cellphone from my back pocket.

"Jake is helping Paul out today. I can easily hitch a ride with him."

Before I have a chance to find Jake's number, my phone is effortlessly yanked out of my hands.

"Yeah, that's not going to happen," Edward bites out just before he turns on his heel and strides towards his truck.

"Edward, it's really not a problem," I try to catch up with him, but am forced into a light jog to get ahead of him.

"Jake has to pass through town to get home anyway."

My words only make him increase his pace and in no time at all he's by his truck, yanking open the passenger door before he throws both the basket of apples and my phone haphazardly into the backseat.

"Edward-," I begin, but am immediately cut off by the loud thud of the door slamming shut.

"Bella," he pauses, clearly trying to calm down a little before he continues.

"I'm driving you home."

"But-."

"No," he takes a step closer, brushing his long fingers lightly against mine for a second, almost as if he needs the connection somehow.

"Driving you home wouldn't be some inconvenience or burden. We've had a wonderful day and I'd like to end it on a high note. I want to drive you home like we discussed. Now, will you allow me that pleasure, or would you prefer the company of Jacob Black?"

I can't help but wonder about the animosity I hear when he all but spits out Jake's name, but the way his eyes pierce intensely into mine, makes it impossible for me to say no. Deciding not to push his buttons, I slowly bob my head in silent acceptance. In the next second, I'm ushered into his incredibly comfortable front seat, watching him from the corner of my eye as he expertly navigates his beast of a truck down the uneven road. Blasted thing cruises by like it's driving on fucking clouds.

"So, are you going to tell me how things went with my sister? Or will I need to try and drag it out of her later?" he asks, his tone light as he strikes up a conversation.

"It went fine, I guess," I answer vaguely. "We had a few details we needed to hash out, but we were able to come to somewhat of an agreement."

"You stand your ground?" he asks, shooting me an expectant look that tells me he wouldn't expect nothing less. This triggers a rush of pride from within and I can't hold back a smile when I confidently give him an answer.

"Of course."

He turns his attention back to the road, but I can physically sense how pleased he is with my response.

"Well done, Miss Swan."

The truck slowly turns onto the main road. A comfortable silence fills the cab as we both enjoy the scenery for a moment. The sun is setting, casting its warm colors onto the lush, green landscape around us. There's a hint of rain in the air, a subtle forecast of what's to come. After years of living in Forks, I've gradually come to enjoy the frequent bouts of rain. I'm already looking forward to the steaming cup of hot tea I'll have before heading off to bed early.

"Do you think it's a good idea? Pitching the Cullen Farm as a wedding venue this late in the season?"

I raise an eyebrow in his direction. He's already unleashed his whirlwind sister by agreeing to this and less than an hour later he's having second thoughts?

"I value your opinion, Bella. Please?"

His simple plea means much more to me than it probably should.

"I think it's a great idea," I pause. "Your farm is gorgeous, Edward, and it has amazing potential as a wedding venue and as a canvas for every single one of your dreams. Yes, it's a little late in the season, but brides usually spend months planning their perfect wedding anyway, so I wouldn't see that as a negative," I take a breath.

"The publicity from this photo-shoot alone will probably set you guys up for a fully booked wedding season next year. Use the winter and the slow months to prepare, get your suppliers in order, work closely with them and your sister and get that Cider House of yours ready, because come Spring? Mark my words, you are going to get slammed. I don't know if you know, but weddings and booze kind of go hand in hand."

His deep chuckle makes my skin tingle.

"You know all of this includes you too, right? Are you sure you have time for this right now?"

I feel my brows furrow in confusion.

"I know my sister, Bella. She has all these grand ideas, but she desperately needs someone to ground her. I watched you with her during the Farmer's Ball and it's clear that you're exactly what she needs. Pulling off this photo-shoot in less than a week, is going to be monster of a challenge, but finding the right suppliers and getting everything ready for when the actual wedding season begins?" he whistles softly before releasing a sharp breath.

"You're going to deserve a substantial piece of the business and I want you to know that I can already see that. If I have time before the photo-shoot, I'll have my lawyer draw something up."

My automatic instinct is to argue, but I quickly bite my tongue. He's right, and I can't help but appreciate his level of professionalism. It's what I felt was sorely lacking in my conversation with Alice and proves to me that this could be a serious business venture and not some impulsive idea. I'd be crazy not to accept his proposal. Getting the wedding business rolling is going to be a massive undertaking for everyone involved, and there's no doubt that it will eat up most of my time and probably quite a large chunk of my finances going forward.

"I'll talk to Angela tomorrow. I know she's been wanting more responsibility-," my voice trails off.

The idea of handing my baby over to someone else's care makes my heart ache, but in a weird way, it also feels incredibly right. I missed working in a commercial kitchen and I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of creating with something other than baked goods. Just the idea filled me with excitement and joy. Lost in my own thoughts, I don't even notice that Edward has turned off the main road until he comes to a complete stop directly in front of my tiny house.

Jesus, his truck and my house are almost the same size.

Turning off the engine, he turns to face me, his expression serious.

"Are you sure this is something you want to do? I hate to tell you, but we Cullen's, aren't always the easiest bunch to deal with."

I raise a single eyebrow in his direction, and make sure to take a moment, even though I've already made up my mind. After a while, I release a deep breath and slowly nod my head.

"I'm sure."

Edward's lips twitch as if he's trying to hold back an excited grin. Instead, he reaches his hand out in a professional manner to seal the deal.

"Well then, Miss Swan, I can't tell you how happy I am that you accept. I look forward to doing business with you."

The moment our hands meet we both break out into wide smiles.

Me too, Mr. Cullen. Me too.

§§§

Edward surprises me when he insists on walking me all the way to my door, and I decide it best not to argue.

"So, I guess when we win the National Cider Tasting Competition, I'll be gaining a stake in Cullen Ciders as well as the wedding business?" I tease, enjoying the light tone between us.

Edward lets out a sharp laugh and shakes his head.

"I'm realizing that I'll need to mind my words around you. Who knew sweet Isabella Swan was some blood thirsty business shark?"

I pause just outside of my door and send him a wink.

Whatever it is that has given me the courage to talk to him this way, I pray never goes away.

"If I'm not mistaken, I think our agreement was half the prize-money and perhaps the honor of having your name on one of my bottles."

Why does that sound incredibly appealing and just a tad bit dirty?

I shake my head, tucking a few strands of my hair behind my ear.

"I don't need my name on a bottle."

He takes a step closer, his head almost bumping into the low entry of my tiny front porch.

"I disagree," his husky tone sends a delicious thrill down my spine.

Does he even realize how close he's standing?

I feel my heartbeats pick up as they pump rapidly against my ribcage while a molten wave of anticipation slowly begins to pool deep within the pit of my stomach. Like a deer in headlights, I stand frozen in place as I await his next move. His eyes appear darker in the evening glow and when his fingers lightly brush against mine, I can't help but feel as though he's testing me somehow.

"I had a really great time today."

Why does everything about this moment feel like the end of some incredible date?

His little finger hooks around mine, the tiniest bit of a connection, but at the same time so earth-shatteringly powerful.

"Me too," my voice is barely above a whisper.

In the next moment, I find myself wrapped in the most amazing embrace. The teen-ager inside of me squeals with glee as one of her major dreams finally becomes reality. Edward's large body engulfs mine as he pulls me to him in a tight hug. My body immediately melts against his, my arms instinctively welcoming him the moment he pulls me close. His warmth and scent are enough to make me feel lightheaded.

"Thank you, Bella."

The sound of his rough voice directly next to my ear sets off an explosion of goosebumps all across my body and I force myself to bite back a moan. The next words that come out of his mouth, however, extinguishes any hope I might have.

"You're a great friend."