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 …
Jacob Black, however, this is not the last you'll hear about him. He's truly the most despicable human I'd ever written, and I'd written some gnarly characters.
I do apologize for the lack of DirectorWard. But, we needed to get some of the 'drama' built. He'll be back in the next chapter. Hell, he'll even have his own section, written in his POV.
Chapter Eighteen
Edward
Sitting on the beach behind my parents' home, I stared out into the ocean. The waves crashed against shore. The ocean was rocky, like the thoughts in my brain. My mind was swirling out of concern for my Bella. Seeing her curled up and so afraid in my bedroom? It shattered me. I knew she was damaged – I hated using that word; she wasn't a broken piece of technology – but, she needed help. I wanted to show her how much I cared for her. How much I loved her. Her fears were preventing me from doing that.
I meant it when I told her that she was the one in control. I would never force myself on a woman.
"Penny for your thoughts," my mother said, sitting down next to me. She handed me a beer. "You seemed distant at dinner."
"I'm worried about Bella," I whispered. "It's her story to tell, but she hasn't had the easiest life. Before she left this morning, she had a massive panic attack. Then, after she got home, I got a phone call from her friend, Jasper." I blew out a breath, running my hands through my hair. "Bella's, I guess you would call him an ex, but he's not … anyway … he's trying to gain custody of their son. On top of that, Seth, Bella's son, was upset and I spoke to him, trying to calm him down."
"He's her ex, but not?" Mom asked, arching a brow.
"Their relationship was one of power and control. Bella didn't have any choices with him," I explained, hoping that she'd understood what I said.
"Oh, my … OH! How awful," Mom gasped, pressing her hand to her chest. "And now, he's trying to take her son away?"
"Yep," I sighed. "She told me that she'd had his parental rights removed, but he's trying to pull some bullshit to steal him away. I think it has to do with her novel and the movie being made. He wants her money and he's using their child as a means to get it."
"He sounds like a complete monster," Mom snarled. "I bet you want to fly up there and make things easier for her, right?"
"You have no idea. Unfortunately, I have a couple of meetings scheduled regarding the movie. We need to finalize locations and get the appropriate clearance. I also need to figure out options for the actors, sending out copies of the script for them to audition. So, tomorrow, I'm meeting with Elliott and Demetri to go over that information," I shrugged. "I never hated my job more than right now."
"The nice thing is that you can delegate," Mom offered.
"Not this," I growled. "It needs to be done and being the director, the one in charge, I have to make these decisions. We have a timeline. Filming locations need to be set if we want to begin filming in the spring. We have to cover a lot of time within the movie. Aro wants a rough cut by next holiday season. Then, the film will be released at the beginning of the blockbuster season, beginning Memorial Day weekend."
Mom squeezed my bicep, giving me an understanding look. With a kiss to my cheek, she stood up. "Come on, Edward. Your dad and I have dessert. I'm certain he wants to hear all about your Bella," Mom suggested. "Brooding on the beach won't solve the world's problems, kiddo."
I nodded, getting up and following my mother into their home. My dad was in the kitchen, dishing out ice cream into bowls. "Your mom ordered your favorite," he said, pushing a bowl toward me. Inside, there was slice of apple pie and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I picked up a bottle of caramel, drizzling it over the top. "You look troubled, son."
"I know. I just … I want to snap my fingers and make everything better for my girlfriend," I said. My dad looked at me, confused by my statement. I sat down at the table, and he joined me. My mom sat next to me, rubbing my back in support. I told both my parents a very pared down version of Bella's story. As I was talking, Alice came in, dressed like she'd just come from court. I stopped talking when she came in. I still didn't trust her. It would take a lot of time and ass-kissing before I'd truly forgive her or trust her, if ever.
"What is it?" Alice asked.
"Edward was telling us about Bella and some difficulties she's dealing with currently," Mom said diplomatically.
"What happened?" Alice pressed. "Is there anything I can do?"
"Like you care," I huffed under my breath.
"I do care," Alice argued. "I realized that I never gave her a chance because my opinion was clouded by what I'd read from those emails. I should have … had more of an open mind, I suppose."
"Did you ever figure out who sent them?" I asked, pushing my bowl away.
"My tech guy said that the emails bounced all over the place, but it was most likely that they came from Uncle Aro's office," she muttered, not meeting my eyes. "Specifically, from Paul's office. However, nothing is for certain."
"You need to let Bella know," I sneered. "When did you find out?"
"I found out yesterday while you and Bella were at Disneyland. I tried to tell Jasper when I saw him with Marcus at the beach, but … he won't even talk to me," Alice argued.
"Yeah, well, do you blame him? Your relationship with Jasper is the least of his worries. Bella's ex is trying to take her son away. You may want to reach out to her attorney in San Francisco with that information about those emails. It could help her fight this bullshit that she shouldn't have to contend with," I grumbled, shooting a scathing look at my sister. "Bullshit that should have never happened …"
"That's not my fault," Alice said, holding up her hands.
"What happened to her in the past was not her fault. How you treated her when you met her because of your prejudices? That's all on you. You helped a great deal when we met with Uncle Aro, but …" I trailed off.
"I know I fucked up. I'll try my hardest to make it up to you, to Bella," Alice sniffled.
"I don't know if you can. Bella's willing to give you a second chance, but she said she doesn't trust you," I said.
"Alice, why did you jump to the conclusion that Bella wasn't good enough for your brother?" Mom asked. "Or for him to work with her?"
"Because she came from nothing," Alice mumbled. "She … she had nothing. I thought she'd try to wriggle her way into Edward's heart and trap him with an accidental pregnancy."
"Proves how much you know," I sneered. "If you'd read her book …"
"I did!" Alice cried. "But, at the time I didn't know! Now, those emails are … they're fucking things up even more."
"No, not the emails. You," I clipped.
"Edward, I know that you're frustrated and upset with your sister, but what's currently happening to Bella wasn't her fault," Dad chided. "You're just taking out your anger on Alice."
"Apologies," I sneered insincerely. "But, if we'd known where the emails originated from, we could have gone into this situation with eyes open and with some sort of plan. We were blindsided by Paul's betrayal and because of that, Bella's past was thrown at her, slapping her in the face, by Paul and his ire. Also, he probably shared information with Bella's ex about the movie moving forward, not to mention her paycheck, and that's what got this custody battle rolling. Did you deliberately withhold this information, Alice?"
She shifted on her seat. "Not deliberately," she responded. "I just didn't see the point of figuring out where the emails were coming from. At least, not at that point in time."
"And, you wonder why I'm still pissed at you," I snarled, standing up and thrusting my hands into my hair. "You knew that I cared about her and yet you pushed and pushed and PUSHED that you thought she was a slut and not worthy my time. You were determined to share Bella's past, a past that was probably colored to show her in the worst possible light, with me. Remember that thick folder? I wonder how much of that was false? Probably all of it."
"I've apologized!" Alice wailed. "Bella accepted it."
"She may have accepted your apology, but I know, for a fact, that she does not trust you. We needed an attorney for that meeting with Uncle Aro. You managed to stop Paul from spreading his lies to the tabloids, but it will be a long, long time before you can worm your way back into my life. Felix is my attorney. I'm also going to ask him to represent Bella while she's in Los Angeles," I said coldly.
"Alice, most of this could have been avoided," Mom said, frowning at my older sister. "I think it was a combination of things that really rankled your brother. The first being your inability to look past Bella's outward appearance. Though, I saw a picture of her, and she doesn't look like – how did you put it – 'white trash.' She's quite lovely and from what I've heard, incredibly kind and smart, despite the harsh reality of her life. The second was using her friend to get information about her by having sex with him."
Alice looked ashamed of that, gnawing on her lip. "That probably wasn't the best choice," she muttered.
"Really, you think?" I snapped.
"Edward," Dad chided.
"What? I'm pissed," I grumbled. "Do you blame me?"
"Not, really, no," Dad snorted, shooting his daughter a glower.
Interrupting both of us, Mom continued, "The final thing is dragging your feet about finding out who was sending you those emails. All of this could have been avoided if you'd …" Mom concluded, shaking her head. "Alice, I think you need to take some time and think about how your actions have consequences. I love you, sweetheart, but I'm very disappointed in you. We taught you better than that. We may work in an appearance-driven field, but that doesn't give us free reign to pass judgment when someone doesn't meet with your exacting expectations. However, even the most beautiful person can have a black soul."
"I'm never going to be forgiven, am I?" she asked, tears slipping down her cheeks.
"You may have to accept that you may never be," Dad added. "Especially by Bella, who you hurt more than anyone in this situation. I also don't think that your brother will be able to trust you either, Mary Alice. You only have yourself to blame. Not Edward. Not that man you slept with to get information about Bella. And most certainly, not Bella. You also have to deal with the disappointment that your mother and I have regarding your behavior. Your mother is right. We raised you better than that. Do you see how your actions have consequences? You're an attorney. You should know that better than anyone."
"I wish I could go back in time and take everything back. All of this could have been avoided," Alice sniffled. "I'll forever be sorry. And no, not sorry that I got caught, but truly sorry. Because of my prejudice, I've irrevocably altered our relationship, Edward. I'll have to come to grips with my decisions." She stood up, wiping her cheeks, and giving me a sad smile. "I think … I'm going to take some time. I've got a lot of time off saved up. Perhaps I'll go on a much-needed vacation." She walked to me, putting her arms around my neck. "I'm sorry, Edward. I love you."
I didn't respond to her, awkwardly returning her hug. Perhaps, Alice leaving would be the best option. Every time I saw her, she'd say something that would piss me off. She was helpful with the Paul situation, getting a gag order regarding anything related to Bella's movie or her personal life. Felix, who was also there, also got a restraining order filed against Paul as well.
"Where will you go, Alice?" Mom asked.
"Probably our villa in Italy," Alice answered. "I just need to unplug and recharge. Maybe, I need to rethink my position in the family."
"Alice," I growled. "Really? You'll always be a member of the family. What the fuck?"
"Language, Edward," Mom chided. "But, he has a point."
"Oh, God! I'm talking about my job!" Alice explained. "I think that, perhaps, I should separate myself from the family business and move to one of the entertainment law firms, building my own clientele, away from this. Away from the family. Does that make sense? I just need to figure out my exit strategy."
"I think that would be a wise decision, Alice," Dad said. "A fair number of people heard about the ruckus you caused with Edward and they're hesitant to keep you as counsel."
"Felix is getting a lot of new clients," I shrugged.
"I've really mucked things up," Alice sighed. "Anyway, I'm going to make arrangements to fly out and spend time at the villa in Tuscany. I don't know if I'll be back for the holidays. I'll let you know." She kissed Dad's cheek and hugged our mother. "I hope things go well for you and Bella. She didn't deserve my ire and I can see how much you love her, Edward. I pray that my actions don't push her away. I'll have my cell phone with me if there's an emergency." With a harsh shake of her head, she left my parents' home.
I should have been more upset that my sister was upending her life, but she'd burned so many bridges with her selfish behavior toward Bella and using Jasper by fucking him to get information about her. That shit was not cool. I huffed out a breath, twisting my lips. "Was I too hard on her?" I asked.
"No, I don't think so. Her actions have consequences. She crossed a line," Dad shrugged, taking a sip of his coffee. "I think this time away will give her the opportunity to reflect on the decisions she'd made."
"I hate that there's this rift," I grumbled.
"It's not your fault, Edward," Mom said softly, rubbing my back. "You and Bella were the victims, to be perfectly honest."
"Don't worry too much about Alice," Dad smiled, sipping his coffee. "Focus on you and your relationship with Bella."
"I think I'm going to head home. I need to check on Bella. She's dealing with so much," I frowned. "I love you both." I kissed my mom's cheek.
"If Bella needs our help, we're more than willing," Dad said. "She must be something special if she's got you so happy."
"She's everything," I whispered. My phone vibrated in my pocket. I saw her face and I held up my phone. "Speaking of which. I'll talk to you soon." I ducked out the back door and began walking along the beach to my house. "Bella," I answered. "I've been thinking about you all day."
"I would rather be thinking of you than dealing with the bullshit of my life," Bella grumbled. "It started with the panic attack yesterday when I woke up and went downhill from there. I'd had another one when I got back home. It was so bad that I passed out. My heart or my mind can't handle this. I … this sucks."
"Bella …" I gasped.
"Before you give me grief about my panic attacks, I'm going to a therapist. My friend, Rose, is taking me to her therapist that she went to after she was …" Bella trailed off. "After she was raped. I can't keep living like this. I thought I was getting better, but the movie and talking about my past. It made me realize that I need to get myself together. How can I possibly love another person when I hate myself?"
"Surely, you don't hate yourself," I argued.
"I wished that I'd died when I gave birth to Seth. There was a point during the C-section where it was either remove my uterus or I'd die. Obviously, they chose my uterus, or else I wouldn't be here. There were days where I wished I'd died. Anything had to be better than the life I was living," Bella said softly, sounding almost wistful. "So, tomorrow, I'm meeting with this therapist to see if she's a good fit, possibly seeing if I need something more intense, like seeing a psychiatrist in addition to therapy. I'm also getting my son some help, as well. He has some anger issues that need … he needs someone to talk to."
"He can talk to me," I murmured, not that I was a professional. Or, that Seth had met me … we only spoke twice on the phone.
"He knows that. Seth told me that you helped him yesterday while I was recovering from the shock of hearing that Jacob wanted to steal my son away. It was your voice that calmed him," she sniffled. "But, like me, he needs professional help."
"You can also talk to me, gorgeous," I whispered. "What happened?"
"So many things. Obviously, the biggest thing is that Jacob is trying to take Seth away from me. Jasper did tell me that he informed you about that turn of events. My attorney pretty much told me that it would be a snowball's chance in hell of him getting my son," Bella explained, weariness filling her voice. "He signed away his parental rights." She blew out a breath. "On top of that, someone broke into my apartment. The police are investigating, but we lost everything."
"It might take some finagling, but I can fly up tomorrow. I want to help," I said. I could easily reschedule the meetings with Elliott and Demetri, or have them remotely. I had to be there for my girl.
"Edward, thank you, but no. I'm staying with Rose and Emmett. I also put in an offer on a place in their neighborhood," she explained. "It comes fully furnished, which is good since my furniture was torn to shreds. I'll need to get new clothes. Seth, too. What a cluster …"
"Do they know who broke into your apartment?" I asked, trying to keep my temper in check.
"No, but as I said, the police are investigating," she yawned. "My attorney thinks that money is the motivation for Jacob's desire to take my son away. With my writing and the movie, my bank account is really healthy. Well, probably not as healthy after buying a house and …" Her voice cracked. "Starting over."
"You're not starting over, love," I whispered. "Say the word and I'm there."
"I know," she sniffled. "Caius said that I need to rely on my family. I don't know how. I've always shouldered the burden on my own."
"You have people helping you. People who love you and would do anything to protect you and Seth," I said fervently.
I'm trying," she whispered. "I want to talk more, but I'm exhausted. My head hurts from everything I had to do today. Tomorrow is probably going to be …"
"Call me, Bella. Any time, you know that, right?" I asked.
"I do. Thank you for your sweet messages all day. They were a bright spot in an overall fucktastic day," Bella snorted humorlessly. "I'll call you tomorrow?"
"I'll look forward to it," I smiled, walking up my steps to my home from the beach. "Goodnight, love."
"Night," she said, ending the call.
"I love you," I murmured into the night air. I slid my phone into my pocket of my shorts and sat down on the chaise lounge. My mind spun at what had happened to my girl. Jacob was the biggest asshole in the history of assholes. He hurt my girl, taking away her choices, her future. He shattered her spirit and stole more than just money from her. He stole her happiness. He stole her future. He stole her safety, security.
I wanted to give her everything. I wanted to be a part of her family. I wanted to be by her side, through the good times and the bad. More than anything, I needed to make her happy and show her that she is worthy of so much love, that she deserved the world.
I swiped at my cheeks, unaware that I'd started crying. God, I'm such a fucking pussy. Shaking my head, I went inside and crawled into bed. My sheets still smelled of her, her clean scent of shampoo, sultry perfume and just Bella.
The next day, I met with Elliott and Demetri. We needed to finalize our locations and get the appropriate documentation to film. Elliott had a list of twenty locations we were considering, all in the Pacific Northwest, from Eugene, Oregon up through Vancouver. For some obvious reasons, we decided to avoid Forks, which was Bella's hometown and La Push. What we couldn't get on location, we could get on a soundstage and CGI.
Demetri's job was far more challenging. We determined the sections we'd send out as audition pieces for Charlotte, who was the mother, Peter, her son and Ian, her romantic interest. I remembered what Bella said about the mother/son relationship. We needed to make sure that the child actor we chose could handle the serious subject matter and had that special connection with the actress we hired to be his mother.
We had a list of prospective candidates. We created packets for the main characters which included a detailed synopsis of the movie, character sketches and relationships and the audition material. We had five options each for Charlotte, Ian, and a few other secondary characters. We were going to hold off casting the son until we had his mother chosen. The relationship between those two characters was integral to this movie being successful.
After we sent off the packets to the actors we hoped to audition, Elliott and Demetri left my beachside home. We made the executive decision to meet back after Thanksgiving to discuss the locations and we'd have auditions after the first of the year. To keep Bella as involved, Demetri, along with his fellow casting director, Gianna, agreed to have auditions in San Francisco. I'd make arrangements when I flew up to visit Bella, possibly using the St. Regis as our mobile studio.
The last thing I did before putting my computer away was schedule my trip up to visit Bella. I hadn't heard from her today and nor did I expect to. If she was starting therapy, she was going to be emotionally raw and probably wanted to come to grips on her own time.
Jasper sent me a text, saying that Bella got the house she put an offer on. They were signing paperwork this Friday and Bella was going to be moving in on Saturday. I was shocked at how quickly that had come through, but was happy that Bella had her own place.
Jasper, I want to help. If I fly up, can you pick me up and keep it quiet? ~ Edward
Let me know what time and which airline. Bella's been … I've never seen her so defeated. She's being strong for Seth and holding it together to get what she needed to be done, but she's not sleeping, and I haven't seen her eat anything since … well, since we left Los Angeles ~ Jasper
My fingers flew over my computer, and I scheduled to fly out early Friday morning. I did not schedule a return flight. Anything that needed to be done for the movie could be done using Skype or Zoom. I needed to stay with her.
Once I had my flight information, I shot off a text to Jasper. I arrive at nine in the morning on Friday. I'm taking an American Airlines flight. I'll forward you the email with the itinerary ~ Edward
Hotels may be difficult to find. There's some big conference or whatever going on. I've got a spare room, if Bella doesn't feel comfortable with you staying with her while she has Seth. It's not as fancy as your place, but it's close to her new digs ~ Jasper
You don't mind? ~ Edward
I invaded your guest house. My spare room is your spare room. Anyway, I'm picking up Seth from school. He had auditions for the school musical. Bella … she had to be sedated after her appointment with her therapist ~ Jasper
Is she okay? ~ Edward
I want you to be aware that this has nothing to do with the therapist. Actually, Bella being at the office was beneficial to be perfectly honest. Bella got a text from her attorney about someone who had helped her when she lived in La Push. She'd asked Caius to look into that, using a private detective ~ Jasper
I gulped down bile, afraid to hear what happened. Jasper, is Bella okay? ~ Edward
Bella's fine … sedated, but fine. The woman, the midwife, who helped her with Seth's birth, was found dead and she'd been dead for quite some time. Her neck was snapped, and she was buried in a shallow grave just outside of the Quileute reservation. She was murdered, but because of the location of her body … the local cops are hesitant to investigate. They have no jurisdiction on the reservation and the local tribal police are corrupt. The FBI are going to investigate, but it doesn't look good ~ Jasper
And Bella … she started panicking. Am I right? ~ Edward
Panicking and sobbing. She blamed herself for what happened to Sue. One of the psychiatrists in the office gave her an anti-anxiety pill and Rose drove her home. Bella's been sleeping since, not that her sleep is restful. They're going back tomorrow … Anyhow, Seth's here. Talk soon, Edward ~ Jasper
I closed my computer and pinched my nose. My poor girl was being tortured. Her safe place had been shattered by the boy who'd thrown her out like garbage. All because he was selfish and wanted money. I despised Jacob Black for what he did to Bella in the past. My hatred of him grew as I saw what he was doing to her currently.
Curling my lip in anger, I reopened my computer and began researching how I could help Bella bring that animal down. The local police might not have jurisdiction, but there had to be a way to make them pay for their crimes.
xx Blockbuster xx
Bella
Never in my life had I been so exhausted, but unable to sleep. The last time I 'slept' was when I was given a sedative when I met with Kathryn, my therapist. Her colleague and psychiatrist, Sean, had to give me medications because I'd been so emotionally overwrought when I found out the truth about what happened to Sue Clearwater.
Each time I closed my eyes, I had nightmares of Sue … poor Sue who had done nothing but try to help me. Her decision to help ended up killing her.
That was my fault.
She helped me and her neck was snapped, probably by Jacob himself. He loved to choke me while he …
Don't. Go. There.
"Mom, you should be sleeping," Seth chided, padding into Rose and Emmett's kitchen. He walked to the fridge, pulling out a bottle of orange juice. He poured himself a glass, giving me a look. I shook my head and he put it back.
"So should you," I smirked, looking up from my computer. "Don't you have a math test tomorrow?"
"I do, but I'll ace it. I'm awesome," Seth snickered, kissing my cheek. "I'm more worried about you. I love you, Mom, but you look like something at the bottom of my shoes."
"Thanks, offspring," I snorted, rolling my eyes. "It's been kind of crazy and I don't have enough time to get the stuff I need to get done. I have deadlines for my books on top of everything else."
"Mom, Uncle Jasper and your editor told you take your time," Seth said, sitting down next to me. "I was in the car when your editor contacted him. She said that you had 'bigger fish to fry.' Come to bed, please?"
"I will. I just need to finish this idea," I lied.
Seth pursed his lips. He, undoubtedly, didn't believe me. But, he must have seen something in my eye that indicated I was going to out stubborn him. He hugged me tightly. "We'll get through this, Momma. I love you."
"I love you, too," I whispered, kissing his forehead. "After school, we have to go shopping for new clothes."
"Can't you just get me stuff? I hate shopping," he groaned.
"You're growing like a weed, kiddo. I need you to try things on. It won't take all night. I think Uncle Jasper is coming with us. I'm with you about the shopping. I'm going with Aunt Rose tomorrow after a meeting," I explained. "So, I get to double my shopping pleasure." I wish I could do everything online, but with no address made that difficult. If I could, I'd run into Target, grab what I needed and go. Emmett, Jasper and Caius all think I need some sort of protection. I get to have a shopping buddy – Rose is coming with me after another trip to my therapist and Jasper will be my shopping buddy after dinner.
"I don't envy you," Seth snickered, kissing my cheek. "Good night, Mom. Love you."
"Sleep well, baby," I murmured. I stayed up, typing furiously on my laptop, and working on my latest novel. I'd gotten well past the halfway point, working to the climax. As the sun was coming up, I hopped into the shower to wake myself up. I padded to the kitchen, pouring myself a cup of coffee, and made lunch for all the kids.
Emmett walked down with his youngest son in his arms. "Hey, Bells," he smiled.
"Good morning," I replied. "I made coffee."
Emmett put his son down and he hugged my legs. I ruffled his hair, giving him an indulgent smile. He darted downstairs and I heard the television turn on.
"I told him that if he slept through the night without climbing into our bed, he could watch a show on Netflix," Emmett snickered. "Rose is waking up Maggie and Lily. I'm taking the kiddos to school. Seth, too."
"I'll go light a fire under his butt," I said.
"He's up. He actually went for a run with me this morning," Emmett said. "He told me that you weren't sleeping. Looking at you, seeing the dark circles under your eyes, I agree with him. Bells, you need to take care of yourself."
"I slept yesterday," I argued.
"No, you were sedated. There's a difference," Emmett frowned. "I think … you need to sleep more than go to the therapist or go shopping. I'll talk to Rose. You go to bed."
"I can't sleep," I whispered. "Nightmares. I … everyone who helps me gets hurt. I remember them. I can't …" Tears spilled onto my cheeks. "I'll be fine."
"Bella, everyone needs to sleep. You can't stay awake for the rest of your life," Emmett chided.
I huffed out a breath. "Be that as it may, I have to do what I need to do to survive," I huffed. "I'm going to get ready for my appointment."
To be honest, I managed to stay awake for the next few days by sheer will and stubbornness. I lived on coffee and NoDoze. I signed away my life as I paid for my new home. Jenks sat next to me while I forked over a good chunk of my savings from my books and signing bonus from the movie. Emmett said he'd get a state-of-the-art security system installed as his house-warming present. Jasper said he'd get me a guard dog. I rolled my eyes at that. I didn't need a guard dog.
I'd give anything just to be happy. For now, I'll just settle for a sense of safety.
xx Blockbuster xx
Edward
A sleek black Tesla pulled up to the curb. Jasper smiled at me. "Nice car, Jasper."
"My bonus from Bells got me this beauty. I traded in my Toyota Highlander, and I fell in love with this … this wonderful piece of machinery," he purred, rubbing his hand over the steering wheel.
"Well, pop the trunk on this piece machinery so I can stow my shit," I snorted.
"Oh, right," Jasper grinned, opening the back and I threw my bags into the trunk. "We've got to run an errand before we head to my place."
"What's this errand?" I asked.
"Well, Bella is currently signing the paperwork for her new place. Jenks and Emmett are with her. Emmett's getting her a security system and I want to get her a guard dog," Jasper explained, pulling away from the curb after I got into the passenger seat. "I have a connection of someone who has some Australian Shepherds for sale. If trained properly, the dog will be another layer of protection for Bella and Seth."
He drove us to large home located in Oakland. We got out and a petite woman smiled from the front yard. "Jasper Whitlock Hale, you son of a bitch," she laughed. "When my girl said you were coming, I could hardly believe my ears."
"I had to keep you on your toes," Jasper snickered, getting out of the car. I did the same. The woman's eyes widened. "Moira, this is Edward Cullen. Edward, this is my ex-wife, Moira."
"You were married?" I asked.
"I was married and then we both realized we had the same taste in women," Jasper laughed, hugging Moira. "It was the shortest marriage in the history of time, but we're still good friends."
"My current wife is another one of his exes, Annika," Moira snickered, holding out her hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Edward. I think I had your poster on my wall when I thought I was still straight."
"Um, thank you?" I replied, arching a brow with a nervous laugh.
"Sorry," Moira giggled. "So, Annika said you're looking for a dog."
"For a friend of mine. This dog needs to be trained, though," Jasper explained.
"Come with me. I'll let you pick the dog and then I'll get started on the training. Are we talking the standard training or something more intense?" Moira asked, leading us to a large building behind the Victorian home. "And before you jump to conclusions, I don't run a puppy mill. We're a dog rescue facility. Annika is the trainer and I'm the vet. The puppies you're seeing were born and were abandoned by the mother." Moira opened the door and a tall woman with skin the color of mocha and the most striking ice-blue eyes was holding two little puppies in her hands. "Annika, did you just finish feeding the puppies?"
"Yep," Annika responded. "I think they're almost ready to start eating solid food."
"Excellent! Jasper is interested in purchasing one of these cuties," Moira grinned.
"We need a guard dog," Jasper said, giving Annika a hug.
"Well, this guy is the biggest of the litter and the leader of the pack," Annika smiled, handing a puppy to him.
"He's got two different colored eyes," Jasper smiled as the puppy kissed his nose. "What do you think, Edward?"
I took the puppy in my hands, and he whimpered, butting his head against my chin as he nuzzled closer to me. "You're cute, buddy," I smiled. "But, are you strong enough to protect someone who I love?"
"Really, Edward?" Jasper asked, his blue eyes wide with shock, but he smiled brightly.
"More than the world," I replied fervently. "Bella's it for me." I blinked to Moira and Annika. "I hope you'll be discreet?"
"Of course, Edward," Moira said, pressing her hand to her chest.
"We'll take him," Jasper nodded. "We need him trained and all the shit that goes along with dogs. Shots, chopping off his nuts and all that."
"You got it," Moira laughed. "He's obviously too young now, but he should be ready to go in two months. Do you have a name?"
Jasper chuckled, snapping a picture of me holding the puppy. "I'll let you know. I'm telling my friend, Bella, tomorrow. She can name the furball. I'll text you."
"She should meet the dog so the puppy can get used to her scent," Moira said. "Call me to schedule a time, okay?" She took the puppy from my hands with a warm grin. "It was nice to see you, hubs."
"That's ex-hubs," Jasper laughed, kissing her cheek. "Thanks, Moira."
"Anything for you, Jasper," Moira grinned. "It was nice to meet you, Edward."
"You, too," I nodded, shaking her hand.
We got back into Jasper's car and drove back to San Francisco. He pulled up to a converted warehouse, parking in an underground garage. We rode up to the top floor. He unlocked the door and led me to the guest room in his condo. It was an industrial place that had a warmth to it, despite the harsh, warehouse-feel to his place. "Thanks for letting me stay here."
"Like I said, my spare room is your spare room," Jasper said, opening the fridge and grabbing a couple of beers.
"Dude, it's eleven in the morning," I chuckled.
"After I tell you how bad Bella's gotten, you're going to need it," Jasper frowned. He spent the next couple of hours explaining what had happened since he and Bella had left Los Angeles less than a week ago. My heart shattered as her ex was trying to destroy her happiness because of his greed. But, her family rallying around her gave me solace that she wasn't alone. I also respected the hell out of Caius. He saw something in my girl, and he was going to fight for her.
"With Caius," Jasper murmured as we ate a late lunch, "I think he sees something in Bella that reminds him of his late daughter. That's a whole other story, but Caius is something else. I truly respect the hell out of him. I also think that Bella needs a father-figure and Caius can … I don't know. After all is said and done, I don't think Caius will walk away from her, from us. He adopted Bella; it would seem."
"He needs a family to love, and Bella needs a parental figure to love her, unconditionally," I smiled sadly. "She'd only had that with her father. Her mother was gone from her life. She needs unconditional love."
"That's the word … unconditionally," Jasper whispered. "Rose, Emmett and I love Bella unconditionally, but she can't accept it. She'd been shattered, broken, by Jacob that she doesn't know how to accept unconditional, absolute love. She's always trying to quantify how she feels and how we feel."
"If I had to guess, that's going to take a lot of time," I retorted. "For you, for your sister and her husband and for me. The only person she loves absolutely is Seth."
Jasper nodded in agreement. His phone vibrated. "Bella just finished signing the paperwork and got the keys. She's planning on moving in tomorrow. We're all helping. She's going shopping with Rose and Emmett to get kitchen shit, bedding, towels … they're going to drop it off at the house. Well, the kitchen shit … the bedding and towels will be washed at Rose's place. Rose knows you're here and we're good until tomorrow morning."
"I really want to see her," I frowned.
"You will. Tomorrow," Jasper smirked.
I sighed, finishing my beer, and sitting back on the couch. We watched some sports game. I couldn't tell you what because all I wanted to do was be with my Bella. Jasper ordered pizza and we ate dinner while we watched another game. Once it was over, I looked at Jasper. "Before we go over to wherever tomorrow, I want to get a bouquet for Bella. She said once that no one ever got her flowers. So, I want to get her flowers for her new place."
"You got it," Jasper agreed. "Rose texted and said that we're meeting at their place at nine."
"We can pick up the bouquet, breakfast and coffee. Yeah?"
"More than likely, Emmett will get breakfast and coffee from McCoffee. He's got an in with the owner," Jasper said, giving me a smirk. "See you in the morning, Edward."
I changed into some pajamas and spoke to Bella on the phone. Despite her exhaustion, I could hear a bit of her excitement in her voice. She had her own place. It wasn't a rental, but a home with a yard and place for her son to spread his wings. I was so happy for her, but hated the circumstances in which she had to purchase her first home.
After we hung up, I curled around the pillow on the bed. I wished I'd was curled around Bella. Hopefully, I'll be able to be curled up with her tomorrow.
The next morning, Jasper and I drove to Rose and Emmett's place after picking up a beautiful autumn bouquet. "Stay out here, Edward. I want to give Bella a chance to see my present to her. I'll text you when it's safe for you to come in. Okay?"
"You got it," I nodded, staying in the car.
Jasper went into a large modern home. I sat inside of the car. Around five minutes since he walked inside, the door flew open. Bella, whose face was pale, and her body was too thin, ran down the steps. Opening the door, I was barely out of the car as she slammed into me, her arms strangling my neck. I held her close, reveling in her body pressed to mine. I felt her tears. "I'm here, gorgeous. Don't cry," I whispered, burying my nose into her soft curls. That made her cry harder, clinging to me tighter.
A blonde woman came outside. "Why don't you bring inside with you?" she said. "I'm Rose, by the way."
"It's nice to meet you," I said as I lifted her into my arms as she tried to move closer to me. Her arms were so tight around my neck. I carried her into a family room. Rose gestured to an overstuffed chair. I sat down with Bella in my lap. She was trembling and tears soaked my neck. "Let me look at you, Bella."
"I c-c-c-can't believe you're here," she croaked. "I didn't expect to see you."
"I couldn't not stay away," I murmured, shifting so I could see her. She was still unbelievably beautiful, but she had deep shadows under her eyes, and she was pallid and far too skinny. "I missed you, love." I leaned forward, kissing her forehead. "I have something for you, but it's still in the car."
"It's not the puppy?" she asked, giving me a wry grin.
"No, I was just the model with the puppy," I laughed, kissing her forehead. "And the dog is going to protect you and Seth."
She wiped her cheeks, giving me a watery grin. "I'm sorry for losing it. My emotions are all over the place," she said. "Come upstairs. You can meet Emmett, Seth and their kids."
"Can I kiss you first?" I asked.
Her response was to press her lips to mine. I melted against her, holding her tightly. Our mouths moved together feverishly and if it weren't for that pesky need to breathe, we'd still be kissing. While panting, she said, "I missed you, too, Edward. Thank you for coming." She kissed me again and stood up, holding my hand.
We walked up to the main level where Emmett McCarty was standing. Next to him, there was a tall, lanky boy with rich, tanned skin. However, his face was all Bella. I recognized him from the FaceTime call I'd had with him. "Everyone, this is Edward Cullen. Edward, this is Emmett, Rose, Seth, Lily, Maggie and Liam," she introduced.
"It's nice to meet all of you. I feel like I know you, thanks to Bella and Jasper," I smiled.
"Speaking of Jasper," the man in question said, holding out the bouquet I'd left in the car. "These are from Edward."
Bella looked at me, tears welling in her eyes. "They're beautiful."
Seth walked over to me, holding out his hand. "It's nice to meet you, Mr. Cullen," he said.
"Please, call me Edward," I said, shaking his hand. "It's nice to meet you face-to-face."
He grinned and his face lit up. "You, too, Edward." He looked to his mother. "Mom, are you ready? I can't wait to see the new place."
"Come on, baby," Bella said, pressing a set of keys into my hand. "Edward will drive us."
"Cool!" Seth said, bounding out of the house.
"I'm going to get my purse," Bella murmured, kissing my jaw, and leaving my arms.
As soon as she was gone, Rose hugged me. I awkwardly returned it. "Um, okay?"
"It's like night and day with her," Rose breathed. "You're so good for her."
"Rosie, stop molesting the hot director," Emmett snickered, tugging his wife away from me. "My apologies."
Bella came back and we all got into various vehicles. Seth was in Bella's Volvo. It was packed to the gills with bags and boxes. I got into the driver's seat after helping Bella into the passenger seat. I backed out and followed Jasper to Bella's new home. It was just a few blocks over. Like Rose and Emmett's place, the house was modern but smaller. It was navy blue with a white single car garage underneath. She opened the garage and told me to park inside. The caravan of cars parked on the street and on the driveway.
"Seth, come with me, kiddo. I want to show you our home," Bella said, pulling out a set of keys. "This is our home."
"It's so cool, Mom," Seth grinned. "Do you want come in with us, Edward?"
"You guys go first. I'm going to start unloading the back of the car, okay?" I responded. Bella caught my eye and gave me a grateful smile. She took Seth's hand and wrapped her arm around his shoulder. She unlocked the door, ducking inside. I began pulling out the bags and boxes from the back of Bella's SUV. Rose came up to me. She gave me a look. "She's showing Seth the house. He hasn't seen it yet."
"Right," Rose nodded.
"Where are your kids?" I asked.
"We dropped them off at a neighbor's," Rose answered. "Liam would just break everything, and the girls would complain about not being able to hang out with their friends."
Seth came out with Bella. His eyes were wide. "I can't believe this place! It's huge!"
"Compared to the apartment, it is," Bella chuckled. "Let's get all this stuff inside. That way we can unpack and get settled."
With five adults and Seth, we got everything into the house. Bella had already washed the new bedding, pushing the sheets and towels for his bedroom and bathroom into his hands. Rose took Bella's bedding and Jasper handled the boxes upon boxes of books to load into the office. Emmett was setting up the televisions, internet, and security system. I was working with Bella in the kitchen. She was washing the new plates and I was putting them into the cabinets. Music was playing from her phone, which had been connected to the Bluetooth speaker system that came with the house.
"I love that this place has furniture, but it's so white," she said, putting a serving bowl into the drainer.
"We can paint it," I suggested. "I can help with that. I'm here for as long as you need me." Forever sounds great.
"What about the movie?" she asked, wiping her hands, and leaning against the counter.
"There's nothing that can't be done over FaceTime, Zoom or email. I have everything I need on my computer. All I need to do is print out the script and begin coming up with camera angles and create the shooting schedule. We're in a holding pattern until we get locations finalized and we begin casting," I explained. "Speaking of which, we can cast here so you can be a part of that step. I'm going to set up our 'mobile studio' at the St. Regis."
"We can do the casting in Los Angeles," she murmured, her eyes dropping to the quartz countertops.
"I don't want you to be away from Seth for more than a few days. Casting, especially the leads, will take some time," I said. "Let me do this for you."
"Okay," she nodded. "Thank you."
"Bells, your bed is made, and I put your towels in the ensuite bathroom," Rose said. "I'm going to go to the store. You need food, shampoo, body wash and girlie things."
"Here, take my credit card," Bella said, reaching into her purse.
"I've got it, Bells. I'm taking Seth with me," Rose smirked. "Punk! Let's go!"
A couple of hours later, the fridge was filled, and we were sitting in the backyard, enjoying some Chipotle. Everyone except Bella. She was nibbling on some chips and salsa. Her eyes were drooping as she leaned against me. "You okay, Bells?" Emmett asked. She nodded, giving him a tiny smile. "We're going to go. I'll be over on Monday for the security camera installation, along with the security system upgrade. We need you safe." He stood up, kissing her forehead. "Love you, Bellsy."
"Thank you, Emmett," she murmured. "I really appreciate all of your help. Everyone … I couldn't have done this without you."
"You're family, sweet girl," Jasper said.
Emmett and Rose left with hugs and kisses. Jasper hung out, talking to Seth while we sat around the fire pit. He was undoubtedly waiting for me, but I didn't want to leave. Bella and I were curled up on a chaise lounge.
"Holy crap. Mom's asleep," Seth whispered. "I don't think she's slept since she got back from Los Angeles. Well, didn't sleep without the help of a sedative."
Jasper looked at us, a sad smile ghosting over his features. "I take it you're staying?"
"I don't want to presume," I said, tightening my hold around my sleeping girl.
"This is the first time that my mom doesn't look … shattered. Please, stay, Edward?" Seth asked. "She trusts you. Really trusts you."
"I'll bring your bags over tomorrow," Jasper said. "Come on, kid. It's bedtime for you, too."
"Good night, Edward," Seth said, giving me a warm smile. He followed Jasper inside.
I tightened my arms her body, gazing down at her sleeping face. I brushed my lips on her forehead. "I love you, Bella. So much."
"Love you, too," she mumbled. I looked down, uncertain if she'd woken up. She was still asleep, snuggling closer. I sat up, holding her in my lap. I lifted her easily and carried her inside. I put her on the bed and her fingers twisted in my shirt. "Don't go."
"I'm not, love," I said. "I'm staying." I kicked off my shoes and jeans and climbed into the bed, pulling into my arms. She sighed contentedly, wriggling closer to me. "I'm staying. Forever, if you'll have me."
A/N: Bella's moved in and Edward's with her. She's struggling with all of this, but the fact that she trusts Edward enough to fall asleep near him says a lot. I hope I made up for the lack of DirectorWard in the last chapter.
Anyhow, pictures from this chapter are on my blog. You can access that from a link in my profile. I'm also on FB: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. Twitter, too: tufano79. Leave me your thoughts, kids! Thanks for reading! I appreciate you all, more than you know.