89

I drop my head in my hands. This can't be happening.

Bella's conversation with Renee lasts less than a minute. She hangs up and comes back over, taking my hands in hers.

"Mom will be here by midnight, and Dad isn't far behind. She wanted me to tell you not to worry, but we all know that's impossible." She lets me wrap my arms around her middle, breathing in her calming scent. "I've already contacted the hotel that's hosting the party and booked a suite under an alias. Wrap up here. Let your bosses know what's going on and ensure that they will respect your privacy should reporters come digging for dirt on you. I'll run home, pack some stuff up, and meet you at Ben's."

"Bella," I croak, tightening my hold on her.

She kisses me softly. "I'm going to use the woods to sneak in through the back. Alec offered to come and monitor the house so we don't have to worry about trespassers, but I told him not to and called the police to request drive-bys. We need to make sure we do everything correctly, and considering my status, they've assigned their best immortal officers for the detail."

I nod against her stomach.

"Everything is going to work out, Edward." She pulls away. "I have to go, and you need to finish up here."

I watch her walk out the door and close all of my files, locking them in my desk. I stop by James's office and warn him I'm going above his head. He nods knowingly, and I set off to find my boss. "Irina, is she in?"

The vampire behind the receptionist's desk nods but motions for me to wait a second. "She already knows some of what's happening. I've fielded two calls so far, but I'm sure Carmen would appreciate the heads up from you personally." She frowns. "I'm sorry that bitch is still putting you through hell. You aren't canceling the party, are you?"

I sigh. "I haven't even had time to think about the girls' birthday. I need to talk to Bella and make sure it will be safe, considering everything."

Her crimson eyes narrow. "Consider my coven your security detail. My sister is a gifted immortal—psychic electrokinesis. Say the word and she'll light that fangbanger up like a Christmas tree. I'm sure between the six of us and Bella's people at V.C., there shouldn't be a problem."

"I appreciate the offer, Irina. I'll talk to Bella and let you know what we decide. Thank you."

"No problem." She leans over and uses the intercom to announce my arrival.

When I enter the office, Carmen is bent over a filing cabinet, tossing papers behind her and muttering to herself. I consider her a good friend, like a second mother almost, considering I've been working for her since I graduated from college. She's a little quirky, a lot flighty, but she's never let me down, and I enjoy working under her.

"Have a seat, Mr. Cullen."

"Really, Carmen?"

She just laughs and stands up, holding a piece of paper in triumph. "Found it!"

"What is it?"

She drops into her chair. "My dog's rabies certification. But that's not important." She shoves the paper off to the side and leans over her desk. "What in the hell is going on?"

"Gianna."

Carmen rolls her eyes. "I knew that. I should have kicked her ass at that Christmas party when she kept bumping into Elzear."

I laugh.

"I'm serious, Edward. She's been nothing but trouble for years. I'm sorry it took so long for you to notice."

"I just need to make sure that my private life remains private for the sake of my children."

Carmen huffs and leans back in her chair. "I'm honestly insulted that you're sitting here asking me that. But I know that, seeing as politics is being questioned and you and Bella are trying to go by the book. You're safe here, Edward. I'm sure Irina is keeping an ear out around the office."

The intercom on the desk beeps. "Of course, I am!"

I chuckle. "I have to go. I'll let you know if we decide to cancel or postpone the party."

"Oh, you better not, Cullen! Those girls deserve a grand affair, especially now. Irina and I went halves on their presents, and I can't wait to see their faces."