I adopted this plot bunny a year or so ago. It really intrigued me. I posted a poll in my group asking which story I should work on next, and this was the winner. It's definitely a WIP. I've only got a rough outline figured out and I'm going back to my roots with this … writing with a vague plan. I hope that I can do this justice.
None of this is mine … I wish it was. Sigh …
It goes without saying that there will be a citrus alert for the next chapter. Will they or won't they?
Chapter Twenty-Four
Bella
The countdown begun in the living room. Edward put his glass down, drawing me in his arms. "I have one more resolution …" he whispered, pressing his forehead to mine. "To love you forever."
"Edward …" I whispered, my eyes fluttering shut.
"I can't imagine a moment where I won't love you," he breathed, kissing me tenderly.
"I love you, so much," I replied. As time marched forward, ushering in the New Year, I kissed him again. The cheers of 'Happy New Year' rang around us, but we were lost in our own little world, kissing, and swaying to music playing on the speakers. I slid my hands up his shoulders, my fingers finding his soft hair at the nape of his neck. Inhaling deeply, I looked up at him. "I want you. I want us."
"Bella, you have me, gorgeous," he murmured.
"Remember what I said about trying?" I asked with my face flaming. His eyes widened slightly as understanding settled on his handsome face. "Rose and Emmett said that Seth can stay tonight, and we can …"
"I've said this before and I'll say it again. You're in charge, Bella," he breathed, taking my face in his warm, large hands.
"Let's say goodbye to Seth and …" I trailed off suggestively.
His gaze grew heated, pressing his lips to mine. With a low growl, he took my hand, and we found my son toasting in the New Year with Cooper and Nick. I told him that he's spending the night with Emmett and Rose. After wishing Edward and me a happy New Year, Seth hugged me, turning back to his friends.
Edward and I got into my SUV, driving back to my home. I could feel my heart slamming against my ribs. I was anxious, but excited. Edward would never hurt me. He showed me every day that he loved me. I wanted to give him all of me.
This was my choice. My body … my love.
I wanted to start the new year out right, by sharing my love with the man who loved me and whom I loved.
Once inside the house, I reveled in the beauty of the Christmas tree that was still up and lit in the front window. Bear was curled up underneath, snoring loudly. I snickered at my dog, shaking my head. "When the tree comes down, I'm afraid that Bear won't know where to lay," I quipped. "I kind of like him as a permanent present. Also, the twinkle lights are so magical …"
Edward slipped behind me, his arms around my waist. "As adorable as Bear is, he's not my priority, gorgeous. You are," he purred, kissing my neck.
"I'm nervous," I admitted. "I …"
"You're in charge, Bella," he said quietly, turning me around in his arms. His green-eyed gaze penetrated into mine, soft and loving. "I love you. I'm not with you because I want to have sex. I'm with you because I love you, I love your spirit and your strength."
"But, I want this. I want you," I murmured, trailing my fingers along his jaw. "I know you won't hurt me."
"It would kill me to hurt you, Bella," he said, leaning forward and pressing his forehead to mine.
I kissed him tenderly, tugging on his hands and leading him upstairs to my bedroom. Once inside, I closed the door and blushed furiously. "I'm going to change and clean up. There's a flame thrower if you want to light some candles."
"You got it, Bella," he said, hugging me closely.
I kissed his lips again before turning to get something to sleep in. I found a black nightie along with a pair of lacy boy shorts. I ducked into the bathroom and clicked the door shut. I took my time taking off my clothes, changing into the black nightie. I scrubbed my face clean, staring at my reflection. Instead of the haunted look I usually wore, my face was relaxed. My eyes glimmered in anticipation. "He won't hurt me. Edward loves me."
About ten minutes after I entered the bathroom, I walked out, and my jaw dropped at the transformation of my bedroom. There were twinkle lights attached to the four-poster bed. Behind the headboard, there were more lights and along the dresser, candles were lit. "How did you do this so quickly?" I whispered.
"I'm just that talented. Remember that I'm a film director and a theater tech nerd," he grinned, kissing my forehead. "You are a vision, love. I don't know what I did to deserve you … your heart, your love, your beauty."
"I'm not beautiful," I snorted, wrapping my arms around his waist. "Passable, maybe."
He gently grabbed my wrists, looking at me. "Bella, I know that you've been through hell and back, but you are incredibly beautiful. You'd been torn down by that animal with his harsh words and despicable actions. However, despite all of that, you are a vision beauty and strength. You are beautiful. Say it with me, love."
I eyed him dubiously. "Edward …"
"Say it, Bella. I am beautiful and I am strong," he breathed, staring into my eyes. His gaze was so intense. I could feel his love and feel his frustration. "Please, Bella. Say it."
"I'm beautiful and I'm strong," I whispered.
His hands cupped my face as he kissed me. "I will tell you until the end of time that you are beautiful and strong, because you are." His lips pressed to my forehead and he gathered me in his arms. He picked me up as if I weighed nothing. "I think I remembered you saying that you wanted magic. I promised you magic. I want to give you that, love."
"I don't want magic. I just want you," I said, running my fingers through his soft, bronze locks. I leaned forward, kissing his lips gently. He moaned, carrying me to my bed and laying me on the mountain of pillows at the head. He sat down as I found the buttons of his shirt. With shaking fingers, I unbuttoned them and pushed the shirt over his shoulders while we kissed. Pulling back, I stared into his green eyes. "You said that I'm beautiful, but you give me a run for my money."
He blushed, crawling onto the bed, and laying down next to me. "This is an argument I'll win because between the two of us, you are the beauty. In every way." He lifted my arm and guided me over his hips, sitting astride his lap. "You're in charge."
"What if I want you to …" I whispered, a warm flush covering my face. "I don't know what I want. I want to feel you, your skin against mine, your lips pressed to my lips. I want … you … inside."
He sat up, pulling me against his warm chest. His fingers glided along my spine while he stared at me. "You trust me."
He said it so simply, as a statement. I nodded. He was the only person I trusted implicitly. He gave me back a huge part of myself. With him, with his love, I didn't feel empty and soulless like I did for so many years. "I love you," I whispered. I reached up sliding the straps of my nightie off my shoulders. With a roll of my body, the black silk fabric was in a pool on my lap.
Edward held gaze, trailing his fingers along my arms, my collarbones and down my midline. "I would do anything for you, my love." He moved the tips of his fingers to my breasts, circling my nipples. I moaned, biting my lip as his palms cupped my breasts. I kissed him, rocking against his growing erection. He snaked his arms around my waist, rolling his hips so I was on my back. I gasped, looking up at him. He grinned crookedly at me. "Like I said, you're beautiful. Exquisite, really." He slid my nightie down my legs, leaving me in just my black panties.
I should be ashamed. I knew I was not perfect. I was still too skinny with scarred flesh and stretch marks. But, his gaze was reverent and heated. He wanted me. He needed me. "Edward," I whispered.
"I love you, Bella. I can't imagine not loving you," he murmured, crawling up my body and kissing me so tenderly. I could have cried at how gentle he was being. "You deserve nothing less than to be cherished, my love. That's what I'm going to do." He kissed me again, but his lips moved down my neck. With a caress, his hands glided down my body as he continued kissing my skin. "So soft, so warm …"
I moaned as he wrapped his lips around my nipple, flicking it with his tongue. My hands flew to his hair, burying my fingers into the thick strands. His palms were hot against my sides as he licked and sucked on my breasts. I could feel my body tremble in anticipation. Releasing my nipple, he looked up at me. His eyes were so green, swirling with so much love and devotion. His gaze was still heated, but filled with questions. I nodded and he grinned crookedly, kissing down my belly until he reached the lacy band of my panties. His calloused fingers gripped on the sides of my panties, pulling them down my legs.
I must have tensed because Edward's gaze shot up to mine. "Are you okay?" he asked.
"I …" I whispered. "I trust you, Edward."
"I want you to feel nothing but pleasure," he cooed, pressing soft, reverent kisses to my skin just above my hips, above my C-section scar. "Just feel, Bella." He kissed my scar once more and blinked down to my soaked core. I was almost embarrassed at how wet I was. Edward let out a low curse, licking his lips hungrily.
"What?" I asked.
"You are beautiful, Bella. And, I cannot wait to taste you," he purred.
"Taste me?" I whispered. I'd written about it and heard at how amazing oral sex could be, but to have someone do that to me? What if I tasted funny?
"Just feel," he breathed. He pressed a kiss to my inner thighs, making me squirm with anticipation. I took his advice and let myself feel what he was doing. His hands slid along my legs, my ribcage, my breasts, and my inner thighs. My moans were loud, arching into his caresses. When his tongue slid through my folds, I shattered under his touch.
"Oh my God," I whimpered. "I … Edward …" He didn't respond out loud. He just hummed against my core as his tongue flicked my clit. "I never knew."
xx Blockbuster xx
Edward
"I never knew," she whimpered.
No, she didn't. She never had this. She never had someone to love her so completely that they wanted to give her pleasure before sharing one body. I wanted to give her the first time she deserved, that she should have had. Making love was more than a physical function of pleasure and making a baby. It was about showing how much you wanted, needed another person.
Tasting Bella directly from the source of her sweetness, her wetness, was purely heaven. Her legs were splayed wide as she lost herself to the sensations of my tongue inside her pussy.
And fuck me sideways. She was sweet, tight, and perfect.
It would take time for her to see herself that way. I knew she felt that she wasn't beautiful; that she wasn't truly a woman because of her situation … due to the aftermath of Seth's birth.
Focus on your woman. She's squirming and mewling for release. Give it to her, Cullen.
Bella was relaxing, begging for more. I could feel the wetness between her thighs as I devoured her essence. She was so unbelievably sweet, with a slight spice and earthy warmth. I could live off her. I loved that she was trusting me to taste her, to love her this way. I growled lowly, moving my hand to her entrance. I blinked up at her, massaging her clit with my chin as my fingers circled her core. She moaned, spreading her legs further apart. Her back was arched up, rolling her hips. I pressed one finger inside her.
Fucking perfection.
She was tight, wet, and hot. Her silken walls hugged my finger, and I could only imagine how my cock would feel inside her.
Like home, to be honest.
Adding a second finger, I sucked her clit between my teeth and flicked my tongue on that bundle of nerves. She road my face, moving sinuously with each stroke of my hand and each pass of my tongue. She was a vision of erotic pleasure, ecstasy, and feminine perfection. Her breasts bounced with each thrust of my hand. Her skin was flushed, covering her creamy skin in the most alluring shade of pink. On top of that, her skin glistened. It made her look ethereal.
"Edward … I'm …" she babbled. Her movements were becoming uncoordinated and jerky. I could feel the muscles around my finger tighten even more. "Oh, shit!" I smiled against her slick skin, curling my fingers inside. She began to tremble as her body shattered into a million pieces with her orgasm. She mumbled incoherently, panting as she came back to earth. I sucked on her inner thigh, marking her as mine. She hummed contentedly.
I moved so I was lying next to her deliciously naked body. She turned to look at me, a calm and loving expression on her face. She curled her hand around the nape of my neck, kissing me deeply. When she tasted her arousal on my lips, her moan was pornographic. I growled lowly, pulling her body to mine. Her hands found my belt buckle and she made quick work of it while we kissed hungrily. My jeans and boxer briefs were pushed down my legs, falling onto the floor of her bedroom. With unsteady hands, she pushed me onto my back. Her eyes caught mine. "What is it, love?"
"I need to see," she whispered. She kept her eyes on mine. "For years, I always believed that a penis was covered in barbed wire and caused me nothing but pain. I need to see that it won't …"
"Bella," I breathed, cupping her cheek, and running my finger along her lower lip. "You're in charge. Always. Explore …"
Her eyes drifted shut, sitting up. Her fingers trailed down my skin, igniting my body into flames. She found my Cullen Crest tattooed on my skin and traced the lines and whirls etched into my flesh. She took a few deep breaths, finding my gaze again. "You won't hurt me."
"Never, baby," I vowed. "I want you to only feel pleasure, happiness … for as long as I live."
She gave me a shaky grin before tracking her eyes down my body, stopping at my hip. She blew out a breath, looking at my leaking, throbbing erection. I didn't move as she tentatively reached out to touch it. She'd palmed me over my pants, but her warm hand seared me without any sort of barrier. No sudden movements. She's in control. "It's … bigger than I anticipated. And soft. The skin, I mean."
Thanks to my numerous times wanking off … my cock is quite moisturized.
She looked back at me. "You won't hurt me. Make love to me, Edward. Make me yours." Leaning down, she captured my lips and gently pulled me back over her body. I was in the cradle of her thighs, with my cock near her entrance. "All of you."
"I love you, Bella," I whispered, grasping my length, and pressing it just inside her body. She whimpered. I stared into her eyes, seeing tears welling. "I love you so much." Our fingers weaved together as I sheathed myself into her body. I leaned down, kissing her tears away. "I'm yours, love. I'll always be yours." Her mouth found mine and she wriggled her hips. I continued kissing her as I began thrusting my hips against hers. I made love to her. I showed her how much I cherished her, how much I adored her.
I'd had sex before. I'd fucked. A lot, to be perfectly honest. But, never, never in my life had I made love to a woman. I never felt what I felt for Bella in my entire life. She was my world. She was my present and she was my future.
She was my forever.
"Edward," she mumbled against my lips. "Oh, God!"
"Come with me, Bella," I commanded, looping one of her legs over my arm as I increased speed of my thrusts. I was lost in her, feeling her warmth surround me. "I can feel you, baby. Yes!"
She moaned as her muscles clenched around my length. Her head fell back, and I leaned down to kiss her exquisite neck. My cock swelled within her. With a low growl, I spilled inside her body. I kept thrusting as our bodies cooled down. My cock slipped from her, and I went to roll off her.
"No, stay," she said, kissing my jaw.
"I've got to be squishing you, Bella," I argued, nuzzling her hair as my fingers danced along her heated flesh.
"I like being surrounded by you. I feel so safe," she replied, giggling quietly as I sucked behind her ear. Her giggles morphed into a breathy moan as kissed her neck. "Edward … You are …"
"I've had you and now? I can't get enough," I purred, sliding off to the side and keeping her in my arms. "Are you okay?"
She moved closer to me, pressing her ear on top of my chest, just above my heart. "At first, I panicked. The tears ..."
"I'm sorry," I whispered.
"Don't apologize. The panic went away when you kissed me and when I looked into your eyes. Those beautiful green eyes," she said, kissing my chest. "I saw how much love you had for me, and you told the truth. You didn't hurt me."
"It would kill me to hurt you, gorgeous," I said simply, brushing her long curls over her shoulders. "I love you."
"I love you, too," she yawned, shifting in my arms.
I chuckled, pressing a kiss to her forehead. Her body relaxed, sighing contentedly. I waited until she was completely asleep before lifting her up. I covered her naked body, and turned off the twinkle lights. After going to the bathroom, I blew out the candles. I crawled into bed with her, curling around her. As I drifted off to sleep, a smile was on my face. Bella and I rang in the new year in the best way.
Happy New Year to us!
xx Blockbuster xx
Bella
I woke up the following morning. I was still enfolded in Edward's strong arms. We were both naked, which reminded me of what we'd done the night before.
We'd made love.
I trusted Edward enough to make love to me.
It was everything I ever wrote about in my books and more. His touch ignited my skin in flames. His kisses made me quiver in anticipation and when he entered me, I never felt more complete. I felt whole, happy, and safe.
I never expected to feel this. Ever. I was resigned to be alone, only having my son as the great love of my life.
That all changed with Edward …
I never knew how amazing making love could be. How much pleasure I could experience … I thought I was going to float away after Edward finished going down on me. And, when we came together? My heart was going to explode. Grinning, I snuggled further into Edward's arms. As I moved, I could feel the soreness between my legs.
I was sore, but not in pain.
Not like … with …
Jacob.
After he'd had his way with me, I would … be bleeding for days, torn to shreds by his harsh movements.
Do not go there.
"It's too early," Edward grumbled behind me. "I know you're awake, gorgeous."
"You sleep, Edward. I'm going to shower and make breakfast," I murmured. He groaned, tightening his hold around my waist, kissing my neck. "Edward …"
"I love holding you. I love feeling your warm skin against mine," he whispered. "I don't want to let you go."
I didn't want him to let me go, either. I burrowed closer, sighing contentedly. He hummed with his hands resting on my bare ass as he nuzzled my neck. Within moments, he was back asleep, holding me to his body so gently, but protectively. I decided to not fight it and I pressed my ear to his chest, listening to his steady heartbeat. I drifted off and when I woke up again, I was alone. Pressing my hand to Edward's side of the bed, it was still warm which indicated he hadn't been gone for long. I smelled breakfast and could hear Edward talking in the kitchen. I stretched out my body before getting up to shower. As I waited for the shower to heat up, I looked at myself in the mirror.
No longer did I see a haunted, terrified little girl who'd lost everything. I finally saw a woman. A happy woman, who had a man who adored her and showed her how much he loved me last night. I smiled shyly, cupping my breasts, and sliding my hands down my stomach. He'd loved me.
With a shake of my head, I hopped in the shower. Once I finished, I blew dry my hair and dressed in a pair of leggings and one of Edward's button-downs. Tossing my hair into a messy bun, I walked downstairs and found Seth and Edward sitting in the living room, watching the Rose Parade. "Happy New Year, Mom," Seth beamed, scrubbing behind Bear's ears.
"Thanks, kiddo," I grinned. "Did you have fun at Aunt Rose and Uncle Emmett's?"
"Yeah. Edward picked me up an hour ago and Aunt Rose gave him a breakfast casserole," Seth explained. "She said something about you deserving the morning off."
"I think she heard about my lack of kitchen skills from Seth," Edward laughed. His gaze met mine and it was heated. A slow, crooked grin spread over his face and my heart twisted beneath my ribs. "Let me make you a plate, gorgeous." He got up, ruffling Seth's hair. Seth batted his hands away with a laugh. Bear barked at Edward as he walked toward me. Taking my hand, he spun me into the kitchen and his mouth was on mine. I gripped his shirt, melting against him as I returned his kiss fervently. He pulled back, panting heavily. "I wanted to stay with you this morning, gorgeous. But, Rosalie called saying that Seth was eager to come home."
"You could have woken me up," I whispered, sliding my hands up to his soft hair.
"I kept you up late," he purred. His eyes darkened as his hands moved to my ass. "Besides, I like hanging out with Seth. He's such a great kid." He brushed his lips over mine and stepped back, adjusting his arousal.
"You okay, Edward?" I asked, arching a brow as I walked to the coffee maker to pour myself a cup.
"I'm better than okay, gorgeous," he said, making a plate for me. Placing it on the counter, he lifted me onto the kitchen island and stepped in between my legs. "How are you? Be honest, Bella."
"I'm okay," I answered. I took his face in my hands. "Truly. Last night … it was a dream come true. I never felt so loved."
"I didn't hurt you," he breathed, pressing his forehead to mine.
"No, Edward. If anything, you healed me. You gave me everything I ever wanted and more," I murmured. "I feel complete, happy, whole, protected."
"Always," Edward said. "I love you, Bella. Thank you for trusting me to love you … to give you all of me." He picked up my hand, pressing it to his chest. "This is yours, baby."
I couldn't help but kiss him and slide my arms around his neck. He held me close, cradling me to his chest. "I love you, too, Edward," I whispered against his ear. My stomach snarled angrily. I tittered anxiously, sitting back, and pressing my hand to my belly. "My apologies."
"Let's get some food in my girl," Edward teased, helping me off the counter. "Today is going to be a lazy day. Watching college football …" I made a face, wrinkling my nose. "Or, whatever you'd like. Rose also gave us a bunch of leftovers so cooking dinner won't be a big deal." With another kiss to my lips, we walked to the living room, and I ate breakfast.
Holding true to his word, we had a lazy day. Edward and Seth watched the football games while I worked on the second novel in my MC series. Edward teased me about working too hard, but writing calmed me and I enjoyed doing it. After the games, Seth, Edward, and I played Monopoly, which was a Cullen family tradition for New Year's Day. Seth cleaned house, beating Edward and me.
After taking Bear out for a walk and eating a meal of leftovers from Rose and Emmett's New Year's Eve party, we hunkered down to watch a movie. Seth snickered as he put in the first movie of the vampire saga that Edward starred in. Edward gave my son a bland look. However, Seth took out the video and put in the Marvel movie we'd decided upon. Apparently, Seth had been bet that he wouldn't put in the movie while Edward was in the house by Emmett. By proving Emmett wrong, my son would get a hundred bucks.
The Monday following New Year's, Seth went back to school with a grumble. Once he was on the bus, Edward and I drove to the St. Regis to meet up with Alec and Elliott to discuss the casting process for the movie. We also needed to finalize the audition schedule, though I had my favorites for each role we were casting in San Francisco. Amelia Henderson was my choice for 'Charlotte.' Ethan Moretti was my choice for her romantic lead, 'Ian'. For the antagonist, 'John' in my novel, Sebastian Franks seemed to have the physical qualities needed, but Edward said that Sebastian was a good guy and would never hurt a fly. If I had my way, these would be the core team of actors, along with a powerhouse little boy to play Charlotte's son, 'Peter'.
Settling in the plush suite that Summit paid for the auditions, Edward opened his computer. I was sitting next to him, with my own computer and a notebook. Alec and Elliott sat across from us. "Did you both have a good holiday?" Edward asked, smiling at his creative team.
"I spent the holiday flying all over Pacific Northwest, finalizing our filming plans. I also got some scenic shots in the since we span many years and a variety of seasons in the film," Elliott explained with a wry grin. "But, it was good."
"I graduated. I'm a college graduate from UCLA," Alec nodded.
"Congratulations," I beamed. Edward shook his hand with a proud smile on his face.
"Thank you, Ms. Swan," Alec responded. "I'm happy to be out of school. Trying to balance my schoolwork and being Edward's assistant was a challenge."
"Well, you're not just my assistant anymore," Edward chuckled. "You're one of the assistant directors and your opinion manners."
"I'm truly appreciative of that," Alec nodded. "Along with the increase in the paycheck."
"You're welcome," Edward smirked. "Now, when do we start with auditions?"
The morning was spent going over the audition schedule, followed by confirming the timeline for the filming schedule. Edward was adamant on seeing Seth perform in his spring musical and made arrangements for a week off in mid-March to see my son's production of Into the Woods, Jr. In the afternoon, we were starting with the antagonist, 'John' since we only had three options for that role. The following day were the auditions for 'Charlotte' and 'Ian'. The final day was going to be for call backs, testing various combinations of actors to see if they gel together. After the trio of main characters were hired, Edward would host auditions for the little boy with the actress we selected for Charlotte. He'd include me by sending videos of the auditions. With the child actors, there were more specific rules for their auditions because of child labor laws and having the auditions in Los Angeles seemed easier.
After lunch, the actors auditioning for 'John' arrived. They were introduced and one by one, they came into the suite to read for the main villain in my story. The first guy, Phillip, was too soft-spoken and friendly, even when reading some gritty dialogue. Sebastian walked in, smiley and kind. However, when he read the audition material, I felt a chill go down my spine. I was thrown back into the nightmare of my life. Sebastian captured Jacob's mannerisms and coldness. When he finished, his eyes caught mine and something in his gaze caused Edward to look at me.
"Sebastian, Elliott, Alec, can you give us a moment?" Edward asked, taking my hands.
"I'm sorry," Sebastian said with a subtle accent in his voice. I heard the door open and then click shut, leaving Edward and me in the suite by ourselves.
"Gorgeous … look at me," Edward murmured. "Sebastian is …"
"Sebastian needs to be John," I whispered. "Yes, his interpretation freaked me the hell out, but it's because he hit the character's coldness on the head."
Edward's brows furrowed, he pulled me into his lap and held me closely. "I hate that you lived through that. I hate that he hurt your that way."
"He can't hurt me anymore," I said.
"But, he could. He should be in jail, Bella," he huffed, pressing a forehead to mine. "Him and his asshole father."
"They should, but I think … Karma has a plan for both of them. They will get what they deserve," I said, running my fingers through Edward's soft hair. Feeling his warmth and seeing how much he loved me, it grounded me more than anything in the world. "Thank you for giving me a few moments."
"Anything for you, my love," he said, kissing my lips. "You are my priority. You and Seth will always be my priority. I love both of you so much."
I melted against him, closing my eyes. "I love you, too. I know that Seth thinks you hung the moon," I chuckled. I hugged him close before going back to my seat. I wiped my cheeks and took a sip of the coffee to my right. Edward kissed my temple before getting Alec, Elliott, and Sebastian back into the room.
As soon as Sebastian came in, he rushed over to me and hugged me close. "I'm sorry, Ms. Swan," he whispered. "I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable."
"Franks, back off my woman," Edward quipped, poking Sebastian's side.
Sebastian took a step back, blushing deeply. "You and Cullen? Lucky bloke," Sebastian snickered, giving Edward a wry grin.
"I'm the lucky one," I responded. "And do not apologize. You're good."
"I just wanted to make sure that I hadn't upset you too much, Ms. Swan," he murmured. I gave him a reassuring smile. "Do you need to see more from me, Edward?"
"You're good for today," Edward said. "If we need more, you'll get a phone call from Alec. Call backs are in a couple of days. Enjoy San Francisco."
"Any suggestions of where to go? I'm from Australia and never been to San Francisco," Sebastian smirked.
"Alcatraz, Ghirardelli, the Golden Gate Bridge," I said.
"Thank you, Ms. Swan," Sebastian smiled.
"Please, call me Bella," I answered.
Sebastian picked up my hand, kissing my knuckles. "Thank you, Bella. Cullen, I'll talk to you soon."
"Stop flirting with my girl, jack ass," Edward laughed, tossing a piece of paper at Sebastian's retreating form. Sebastian winked before he left the room. "Is Tom Wilson outside?"
"Not yet," Alec answered. "His audition time isn't for another half hour."
"While we were outside, I ordered some munchies," Elliott said. "I'm hungry."
"You're always hungry," Alec snickered.
"I'm going to …" I trailed off. I was embarrassed at how I reacted to Sebastian's audition. I needed a few moments to pull myself together. I got up, walking to the bathroom, and closing the door. I blew out a breath, sitting down on the raised tub. My hands were shaking. Sebastian had captured Jacob's mannerisms so well. It was like I was in the room with the boy who'd ripped my innocence away. He was so convincing that I knew he had to have the role. There was a quiet knock on the door. "Yeah?"
Edward poked his head inside, his eyes covered. "Are you …?"
"I'm decent," I chuckled.
He opened his eyes and ducked inside. "Are you sure you're okay, gorgeous? I could feel you tremble."
"I'm not going to lie and say yes. Sebastian's audition was off-putting. I may have some issues tonight, but I'll be okay. Having you next to me? It grounded me. I just needed a moment to calm down. It helps that Sebastian is a good guy and Australian. The accent reminds me that he's not Jacob," I shrugged. Edward crouched in front of me, cupping my cheek. I must have jumped because he frowned. "Sorry …"
"Bella," he breathed. "I'm worried, my love."
"I'll …" I trailed off. "Let's finish this and I'll call my therapist. Can you handle taking care of Seth while I meet with her?"
"Of course," he smiled, kissing me sweetly. "I love you."
xx Blockbuster xx
Edward
After a long afternoon, Bella drove off to meet with her therapist. I was under strict orders to reheat the meal she'd taken out of the freezer for dinner. However, I wish I could have gone with her to the appointment. Sebastian's audition had rattled her to the core. She wouldn't say much, but her pale, ashen face, and trembling body next to mine indicated that Sebastian's take on 'John' hit a little too close to home.
Seth came inside after school. He dropped his bag near the door. "Hello? Mom? Edward?"
"In the kitchen, trying to figure out how to …" I said, looking at the plastic container filled with chili and figuring out how to put it into saucepan on the stove.
"You really are helpless in the kitchen," Seth laughed, walking over to me, and turned on the water in the sink. He stuck the container underneath. After a few moments, he turned to put the block of chili into the saucepan and turned the heat to low. "Where's Mom?"
"She had an appointment with her therapist. We had auditions for the antagonist of the movie and one of the actors rattled her," I answered. Seth's lips thinned and he scowled at the chili. "The actor is really kind, but some of the mannerisms were very similar to … biological dad."
"Who?" Seth asked. "Who auditioned for that role?"
"Sebastian Franks," I answered.
"I like him. He's 'Homelander' on The Boys, right?" Seth questioned. I nodded, watching Seth with concern. "I've read things about him and how nice he is. It goes to show how good an actor he is. I hate that my mom freaked out, but I'm happy you were there with her. Normally, she'd just shut down and grin and bear it." He turned around, sliding his arms around my waist, and burrowing close to me. I held him tightly, kissing his forehead. "I'm going to do some homework."
"Are you okay, Seth?" I asked.
"I am. Thanks, Edward," he grinned. "Let me know if you need help with dinner."
"Will do, kiddo," I nodded, watching as he walked upstairs with his book bag. Bear circled around my legs before following Seth. I checked on the chili and pulled out a box of pasta, as per Bella's instructions. Sitting down at the island, I looked over the notes from Alec, Elliott, and Bella from the auditions for 'John' today. Sebastian was the clear favorite. I just hated how much his performance impacted Bella. I loved her more than words could say, but could she handle this movie and putting it on the big screen?
Trust her, Cullen. She spoke up today. After casting these main characters, she's leaving the movie up to you.
Typing out my notes, I looked at the audition schedule for the following day. The 'Charlotte' auditions would take place in the morning. We had ten potential candidates, all eager to work with me or were huge fans of Bella's writing. I hoped to whittle that down to four actresses to call back with the men we wanted for 'Ian' on the following day. The 'Ian' auditions were in the afternoon, and we had eight actors interested in the role.
When we had started working on collaborating on the film, Bella had shared with me her private Pinterest 'mood' board she created with the actors she'd pictured for the roles, along with scenery, jewelry, clothes, and anything else she saved. She was a very visual writer. Having the pictures helped her get into the minds of the characters and describe the world she built. Those visual cues gave me a clear idea of what she wanted for the movie. Once we had our actors, costumers could begin gathering clothing and jewelry for the film. Our set dressers could get the decorations for the various locations.
My cell phone rang, and I picked it up. "Cullen," I responded.
"Edward, it's Sebastian."
"What's up, man?" I asked.
"Look, this may sound unorthodox, but I feel horribly for making Bella panic earlier today," he said. "I know I shouldn't ask, but …"
"It's her story, but she did give me permission to let you know some details," I explained. "She was in an emotionally and physically abusive relationship. This book is loosely based on her story. Her ex, the man who 'John' is based upon, really hurt her, physically, mentally, emotionally, and more. She saw a lot of him in you, in your mannerisms while you read the lines. She's able to separate the situation. However, she was unprepared for her reaction to your audition."
"Holy fuck," he hissed.
"Yea, exactly," I agreed, frowning deeply.
"Look, I want to send her flowers or something. To apologize or something," Sebastian pressed. "Not to butter her up or anything, but I truly feel awful for making her feel jittery."
"Sending flowers to my girlfriend," I teased, arching a brow.
"I'm not going to send her roses, Cullen," Sebastian snorted. "Just a small token of apology. I'll keep it under $200."
"Have the flowers delivered to the suite where you auditioned," I said. "I don't know if Bella will want to take them home, but if not, it'll make the suite look pretty."
"Sounds good, Edward," Sebastian breathed. "Seriously, though, I'm not doing this to try ingratiate myself to her or to you … I just feel bad."
"I know, Sebastian," I said. "You're a good guy. Unlike her ex."
"I'll get those flowers and possibly see you on Wednesday?" Sebastian asked. "For call backs?"
"Are you fishing for information, Franks?" I teased.
"Maybe," he drawled out.
"Get your damned flowers, asshat," I laughed. "You'll get a phone call from Alec if you've been asked to stay for callbacks tomorrow evening."
"Ugh, fine," he snorted. "Have a good night, Edward."
I said my goodbyes to Sebastian and finished my notes for the auditions for tomorrow. Saving the work, I closed my computer and putting it away, along with the ginormous binder with the script, schedule, and my never-ending to-do list, I checked on the chili. I stirred it before padding to the living room to watch television. I was watching the news when Bella came inside from her appointment. Her eyes were puffy and red. "Gorgeous," I whispered, standing up to walk over to her.
"I'm okay, Edward," she said, snuggling into my arms. She sighed contentedly, burrowing closer. "Apparently, I had a 'break through'. I had sob-fest, to be honest. I looked at my therapist like she was cuckoo banana crackers."
"That's quite the description," I snickered.
"My dad used to say it when he tried to curtail his swearing in front of me. I was quite the parrot when I was a kid," she smirked. "Anyway, I've made the decision to sit in on the auditions tomorrow, but for call backs? I'm not going to be involved. Whomever we choose for the part of 'John', I … it's too close."
"I'll support you, Bella," I murmured, taking her puffy, swollen face into my hands. "Sebastian called me, and he feels awful. He's getting you flowers."
"That's not really necessary," she said, squeezing her arms around my waist. Her ear was pressed above my heart. From the grip on my shirt, she was still rattled. "You don't think I'm being too sensitive?"
"You lived through hell, Bella. You have every right to be sensitive. I also explained to Sebastian that the story was loosely based off your life. He felt even worse," I said, kissing the crown of her head. "I love you, Bella. You know that, right?"
"I do, baby," she nodded, snuggling closer. "I couldn't have gotten through today without you and your support."
"Why don't you check on Seth and take a shower, relax," I suggested. "I've got dinner. Or, if worse comes to worse, Seth can help me."
"I can do it," she argued.
"Bella, you've had a long, difficult day. Let me take care of you. When was the last time someone did that?" I asked.
She looked like she wanted to argue some more, but she nodded tiredly. She kissed my lips before going upstairs. Bella had always taken care of everyone. Now, it was her turn to be cared for and I was going to do it for her. A half hour later, Seth came down and we worked on making dinner. Bella tried to help after she got out of her shower, but Seth gave her a stern glare. She wisely sat at the island, watching as her 'boys' made dinner. Despite the panic she'd dealt with earlier, she was laughing and teasing. She even took pictures with her cell phone of me and Seth in aprons while we put dinner on the table. It was a lot of fun and it gave me a chance to spoil my girlfriend.
Heaven knows she deserved all the spoiling in the world. I would happily do it forever.
xx Blockbuster xx
Bella
We had the main characters cast for the movie. Amelia Henderson was playing Charlotte, with Ethan Moretti playing Ian. Sebastian Franks was hired to be John and he'd shown up to the suite, delivering a gorgeous bouquet in apology. His actions were so sweet and kind, very unlike the character he would play in the movie. Staring into his eyes, all I could see was his kindness.
With the main characters casted, Edward stayed for a couple more days before he flew back to Los Angeles. The night before he left, we made love again and it was as amazing as the first time, if not more so. We were learning what we liked and showing each other how much we loved each other. I finally understood the big deal about sex. I get why people wanted to do it, nonstop. When you love someone, you want to show it.
And, Edward showed me. When we made love, it was always about me, about my feelings, my desire, my pleasure, my safety. His pleasure was secondary. I was his priority and he showed me, told me as often as possible.
The morning of his departure, I drove him to the airport, after dropping off Seth at school. We both were not ready for him to go, but he had to finish casting the film and begin rehearsals with the actors. He had six weeks to get things ready before filming began. We'd be in constant contact, through phone calls, Skype, and the occasional date. Edward had more flexibility with schedule and would fly up to visit me. I had to remain in San Francisco because of my responsibilities at my job and obviously taking care of my son.
"Hey, gorgeous, I hate this face," he said, pulling my lip from between my teeth.
"You should love all my faces," I quipped, but the joke fell flat.
"I do love all your faces, but this separation is temporary," he murmured while I parked my car in the short-term lot. I couldn't not walk him to the security line. He got out and pulled out his luggage. I locked the car, pouting deeply. He threaded his fingers with mine and we walked to the entrance of the airport. Before we stepped inside, he stopped me and took my face into his hands. "Bella, I hate being away from you. I'll be by your side before you can even miss me. I love you. I will always love you," he murmured, kissing me.
"I love you, too," I said, tracing my fingers along the planes of his face, trying to memorize them. "I just … I feel unsettled. Like something is going to happen … I've felt this way since Sebastian's audition."
"How so?"
"I don't know. Jacob … his case was thrown out easily, but from what I remember from him, he won't back down without a fight. He takes what he wants," I shrugged, my body trembling with the memories of how he took. "With Caius's help, I have a restraining order, but that doesn't mean that it won't stop Jacob from popping back in my life. A piece of paper won't protect me. I don't know. Maybe, I'm paranoid."
"You're not paranoid. It did appear that he gave up and you have every right to be on edge," Edward whispered, pressing a gentle kiss to my lips, lingering on my mouth longer than what was polite. "I can make arrangements for protection."
"No," I said, shaking my head. "Emmett and Rose are minutes away and Jasper … he can be at my place in a heartbeat. Besides, the community is gated and because of some overprotective Hollywood director, I've got a state-of-the-art security system."
He stared at me, his green gaze intense and wary. "Okay," he huffed. "I know I have a job to do, but I do not want to go. I love you and I'll call you once I've landed. My sister is picking me up."
"Good luck with that," I said, giving him an appreciative squeeze.
"We need to have a conversation and it's a long time coming," he shrugged. Checking his watch, he grimaced. "I've got to go. My plane is taking off in half hour and I'm not even through security. If you stay, I will miss my flight. I adore you and I will see you soon." He gave me another heated kiss before darting into the airport. I stayed as long as I could see him. With a sigh, I walked back to the car, but that nagging paranoia was taking root in the back of my mind.
Was someone watching me?
A/N: Are you still with me? They made love and have the main characters casted for the movie. Bella also is feeling a negative vibe about her ex. What do you think will be happening on the Jacob front?
Up next will be Edward's return to Los Angeles, along with his conversation with Alice. Will she finally see the error of her ways and make a concerted effort to make amends. We'll also move forward in time, to Seth's musical performance.
Leave me your thoughts, everyone! Thank you for reading!