Hello guys! Sorry for the slow update: but here it is. Enjoy and please give me your feedback as always! Thank you for being patient and for continuing to read!
Hi Chocolate Splash: Maybe Bella will grow on you. She is young, but has a mind of her own. And maybe she a bit forward! But see how Edward and Bella pair up in chapters to come.
Christeiaarora: Yes. Charlie may be a failed father, but he still cares for his children. Glad you noticed and picked up on that.
Tulips at Twilight: Hello. Edward can be a little impatient with Bella. But she is younger than him. lol. But she is a quick thinker, she finds ways to avoid Edward's anger.
Kathat4: You read my mind on Alice's role. lol. Enjoy the new chapter.
A BIG Thanks to my Beta, who puts up with all my errors and turns them into the English language!.
The carriage pulled up to Edward's estate. I could hear my heart pounding in my ears. It felt like I was lost in a dream and any moment a cold wave of water would wash over me to wake me from a deep slumber. I still had not fully embraced my new life. It was hard to believe, but there I was, dressed like a fine lady, joining one of the wealthiest men around for dinner, in a home beyond compare to any other.
As the carriage calmly came to a stop, I half expected to see Edward, but Jacob was standing there smiling with his arms behind his back. He opened the carriage door and held out his hand. "Good evening, Miss Swan."
I took it and smiled in return as I stooped down out of the carriage. "Thank you, Jacob."
"Of course. The master has been detained on business, or else he would have met you himself." My eyes widened a little.
"Business?" Did that mean he would not be joining me for dinner after all? "But we have an arrangement to meet. I thought we would be having dinner."
"Oh, yes of course. He did not cancel the dinner. Something happened at the factory that required his immediate attention. He does apologize for not being here to meet you."
"I'm sure." I still didn't like it, though. Jacob walked me into the estate, smirking at my pitiful attempt to hide my irritation.
"You look very nice, Miss Swan." I blushed a little at the compliment. I was wearing my mother's dark blue velvet dress with a corset. I was not used to wearing a corset, but it was meant to compliment the dress. My waist felt tight and my breasts were pushed up almost to my neck! Really. It seemed most indecent.
This was the first occasion I actually had a reason to wear the dress. There was no need to wear anything this elegant in my plain, daily life. The dress fit nicely, but it didn't look like me at all. Before I left the house, Alice had applied a bit of powder and blush to my face. She finished the look by applying a red tint to my lips. I certainly didn't feel like Isabella Swan anymore, more like a peacock.
"Thank you, Jacob."
"I imagine the master will be very pleased." I frowned a little. I wanted to say I didn't do it for him, but that just wasn't true. Somewhere inside myself, I too hoped he was pleased. I wanted to look nice. I wanted Edward to see I could be a fine lady if I wanted to. Somehow, it made me feel worthy. I was not wealthy like him, and I knew I would be judged by other fine ladies. I guess I wanted him to feel I could measure up.
As I stood in the grand entryway looking around, I started to become a bit discomfited with each passing second of silence. "So... What am I to do? Till he returns, that is."
"Well, the home is very big. It will soon be your home, too. Perhaps you'd like to have a look about? Or, the gardens are always nice to tour." I nodded. The gardens always interested me. They were a good way to peacefully pass the time.
"Alright. Thank you, Jacob. The gardens sound wonderful. I should like the fresh air."
"Shall I have Lisa escort you? I know she would be happy to do so."
I shook my head. "I'll manage," I said, picking up my dress a little to walk.
"Very well," he smiled. "I will come for you when the master returns." I smiled back at him and continued on my way. I was already familiar with one part of the gardens, so I decided to head in the opposite direction that I traveled last time. I sighed in frustration. Had I known I would be trekking through the gardens, I would have worn more appropriate attire.
My arms grew tired of constantly picking up my dress to make any sort of progress. When I was far enough away from the estate, I looked around for anyone nearby. I was sure I was alone, so I took the ribbon from around my waist, hiked up my dress and tied it up. Much better, I thought when I continued my journey.
I passed several fountains and a couple ponds teaming with fish. I was enjoying how peaceful it was to just walk in nature and be alone. I came to a wide open grass field and stopped. The breeze was quite chilly and I was beginning to regret that I did not bring a blanket or a shawl with me. At least the sun was warm on my arms. As I walked across the field, I realized it came to an end at a cliff. I was not too big on heights, but I decided to slowly walk to the edge to see the world below.
When I got to the edge, I took a deep breath and stared at the beauty of the lush green hills below. It was untouched land littered with lavender and grass. I sat down at the edge and let the breeze and silence surround me with peace and tranquility. Closing my eyes in the warmth of the sun, I laid down on the soft grass.
Sleep had almost overcome me when I heard a gruff voice, "you really know how to pick the most dangerous spots, don't you?" My eyes popped open and I sat up to see Edward mounted on his black horse, dressed in an all back trench coat. He didn't seem upset, though, staring down at me wearing a somewhat amused expression.
"Oh," I whispered, realizing I was probably showing more cleavage than I wanted to from my sitting position. Blushing, I moved to stand up only to feel the heat increase as my hiked up dress was revealed. Edward looked at it and shook his head. Most inappropriate for a lady, I'm sure. This was not how I wanted Edward to see me for our dinner.
"Always full of surprises," he smirked while adjusting himself on his horse.
"I-I didn't realize how much time had passed. Jacob said he would come for me."
"Well, I don't think he expected you to wander off this far." He dismounted his horse with one swift movement and approached me. I averted my eyes and tried to quell any improper thoughts.
He reached for my face and I started, moving away slightly, but that did not deter his efforts. I felt his hand pull a few grass clippings from my hair.
I cleared my throat. "Thank you," I said, backing away. I decided to pull the ribbon from my dress and let it fall down to his proper length. Edward seemed a little disappointed, but masked it quickly.
"You shouldn't wander off this far. And you shouldn't fall asleep next to a cliff. The grounds near the edge are not always reliable. Sometimes the cliffs crumble due to the elements."
"I know. I mean, I didn't mean to. I just wanted to relax a little. It's very peaceful here." His eyes wandered over my attire for a moment before he cleared his throat and looked away.
"You can come here whenever you like. I just ask that you don't fall asleep next to a cliff." He gave me a mocking glance, which I returned with a look of irritation. I could not refute his words, though, having made the poor decision. "I meant to meet you when you arrived. I apologize. Something urgent came up at the factory."
"Jacob told me. It's alright. I was able to find some entertainment."
"Yes, I see. I imagine with that dress it was a difficult trek."
I smiled awkwardly. "It was for a while. With a few adjustments, I was able to make the journey more tolerable."
"Hmm. You shouldn't make any adjustments to that dress. It's most becoming on you." His compliment reignited the flames in my cheeks.
"Thank you." His eyes drifted down to my raised bosom and he blinked twice.
"But I feel I must warn you, Isabella. If you wish to remain untouched before our wedding night, you should not tempt me so." My eyes widened at his words.
"Well. I... I just put on a dress I thought was proper for the occasion."
"It is proper. Very proper. I could not have asked for a better view." I wasn't sure if he was talking about my dress or my raised bosom. He reached up to run his thumb across my bottom lip, the feeling warm and nice. "I'm pleased my bride can look so appealing."
I raised my eyes to his silver ones and swallowed hard. It must be a sin to look at such a handsome man knowing his motives were vulgar. It was not right to imagine what he would be like in private behind closed doors. But was it? I mean, he was my husband-to-be. Would it really be a sin to simply wonder?
I blushed again, feeling the redness travel down my neck and making me feel flushed. Edward's lips twitched upwards. "I am also equally pleased my bride becomes such a lovely color when she blushes." I turned away slightly. There was no hiding it, especially not with such a revealing dress on.
"I think we should head back. I mean, it is not proper to remain alone for too long. We are not yet married."
He chuckled. "It's as good as done in my mind. Besides, it's not as if we are not of age. We have a right to spend private time together."
"Yes, but when we are married. It's just proper." He frowned slightly.
"Well, you have been alone with a man before, haven't you? I don't see the difference. And besides, I am your husband-to-be." I fell silent. His brows furrowed again. "Isabella?" He smirked. "Have you ever been alone with a man?"
"I find this question inappropriate. What difference does it make?"
"Now I really wonder." He smiled.
I heaved a sigh, folding my arms. It did not seem right for us to talk about such things.
"We are to be husband and wife soon, we can talk about these things between us. Besides, I believe it is in your best interest to tell me before the wedding night. It could greatly affect the way I bed you."
My eyes widened. "Do you lack all modesty? We should not speak of such things."
He scoffed. "Ah. So my bride is as innocent as she appears to be. I suspected, but never had any proof till now."
"And what proof do you think you have? Perhaps I just choose not to talk about such vulgar things with a man that I am not married to yet."
He laughed, "You have never been touched, have you? Or even seen a naked man before." My face reddened at his forwardness. I sighed. He was not giving up.
"No. I haven't. Satisfied?"
"As much as I can be for the moment," he smiled.
"And what about you?" I knew the answer, of course. There was no way he had not enjoyed the company of women, but I wanted to redirect the conversation.
"Of course," he smiled. "Too many to count."
I don't know why this irritated me, but it did. "Well, I'm glad you can find company with so many women. No doubt you will continue to do so after we are wed. I would not want you to abandon your daily routine."
His features darkened. "Women are attracted to me because of my wealth and power. As a single man with needs, I did find some of them agreeable, but make no mistake Isabella," he walked closer, closing the distance between us, "I will have no need for them anymore. I intend to have you meet all my needs when we are wed. Whenever, wherever, however, and for as long as I like. You will please me."
I gasped as I felt his hand slowly wrap around my waist and pull me close. My eyes widened, my breath became erratic, and my heart beat rapidly as his silver eyes mesmerized me, holding me in place. I could smell his intoxicating scent of fresh pine and clean linen. My eyes went to his full, moist lips, and through the silence, I had begun to lean forward. It felt as if his lips were pulling me in by an unstoppable force. Why did I want to kiss him? Curiosity, I thought. Nothing more. He inched closer to my lips, a smile tugging at one side. I closed my eyes, waiting for his lips to touch mine.
"So I am your first." he whispered after a moment. I opened my eyes to his amused smirk. "I'm pleased my bride is not only young, but also very innocent in the ways of men. I will consider it a joy to teach you how to please a man." I blinked twice and then frowned at him.
"I could just play the part very well. I could be lying. Perhaps you are not my first and I just said what you wanted to hear."
He snorted. "I suppose that's possible. We will see when I spread your legs and take what is mine. Again. And again." I turned my head away, but he only leaned forward till his lips touched the shell of my ear. "I will have you writhing under me regardless of what you portray yourself to be."
I pushed him off roughly and scooted away, embarrassed and angry that he had such power over me so quickly. It was frightening that I awaited his touch so eagerly. "You will refrain from touching me in such a way again. Or talking about such subjects. We are not married yet."
He gave up with a sigh. "Come on, let's head back." He put one foot in the saddle, threw his other leg over and then held his hand out to me. I look at it and then at him. Did he honestly expect us to ride together? "Are you going to protest this too?"
I looked at my dress. I did not want to ride with him, but my dress seemed to prevent me from doing so, anyhow. "I don't think my dress will permit me to. I'm not in the right attire." He rolled his eyes as he got down from his horse.
He picked me up with ease and draped me over the horse. It was most undignified! "Hey!" I screamed. "How dare you! Who do you-"
"Stop fussing." He climbed up behind me and situated me on the horse so that both my legs dangled down on one side. He wrapped his arms around me, grabbing the reins and leading the horse to turn around. He smirked as I looked sideways at him awkwardly. Unfamiliar with the movement of the horse, I found myself scooting closer to him and wrapping one arm around his waist to make sure I wouldn't fall off.
"Both hands," he said. "Hold on." I glared at him but did as he suggested and wrapped both arms around his upper torso. I could feel the warmth of his body against mine and it felt - well - it felt nice. Edward secured me close to him, his arms on either side of me holding me in place. After I was secure, his legs squeezed and kicked the horse and we broke into a full-on gallop. The wind blew my hair and my half exposed bosom did not agree with the constant bouncing. I found myself leaning further into his chest to make sure I did not fall.
When we arrived at the stables, Edward slowed the horse to a trot. I was glad it was over. I wouldn't mind learning how to ride a horse, but not in this uncomfortable position. I would rather have my own horse first of all, and also ride with one leg on each side. I knew it was not becoming of a lady, but who would know? Edward's lands were so private, no one would judge me here.
When we came to a halt, a young stable boy was there to greet us. He grabbed the reins as Edward hopped down. Edward grasped me at the waist and helped me slide off. I glared at him for manhandling me earlier, but he simply ignored me. "Give him some extra oats and carrots tonight. He was good. He is not used to strangers riding him."
"Yes Sir," the stable boy said with a smile.
Edward patted the horse's mane and leaned his head to the horse's snout. "Shhh. Good boy." He closed his eyes and continued to the pet horse. He seemed so gentle. I inched around and looked at the horse's eyes. It gave me a weary look as my hand slowly approached his mane. It let out a loud snort but did not move. Edward opened his eyes and watched as I put my hand on the horse's mane and pet him gently.
The horse seemed to calm down when it realized I meant it no harm. "Thank you," I said with a smile. "Thank you for letting me ride you."
"Gabriel," Edward said. "His name is Gabriel. Very loyal and not too trusting of strangers."
"Gabriel," I said softly while petting him. He was such a big, majestic creature and yet so calm and gentle.
"Can you ride? I mean, have you ever ridden a horse by yourself?" I shook my head. "We will have to remedy that. I think you will like it much better than walking." Edward smirked as he let the stable boy take Gabriel away. "Come. I'm famished."
Edward led me back to the estate and parted with me in the entry to go freshen up.
Jacob approached me. "Miss Swan. So glad to see you are well. I got worried when I could not find you in the nearby gardens."
"Oh." I said, slightly embarrassed. "I'm sorry. I just ventured a little further. Maybe more than I should have."
"Yes. Quite the explorer, I see, but I wish you would let me know next time if you wish to venture past the gardens. It was not pleasant telling the master I lost his bride." Edward thought I was lost? "He was worried for your safety as well. Moments after I told him I could not find you, his horse was saddled and he was off. I am glad he found you." Edward was worried? He never gave the impression that he was worried when he found me lying in the grass.
"I didn't mean to cause a scare."
"Well, given recent events, we just hoped you were not attacked by someone. Or taken. I know you will be the new mistress of the house Miss Swan, and I hope you do not think me too bold, but you must be more careful. Edward is a wealthy man. Given the chance, someone may use you to their advantage. Especially if you become with child. The master would be devastated if anything were to take-"
"Jacob," I put my hand on his shoulder, "thank you for telling me. I promise I will be more careful and to tell you before I venture off again." He smiled at me.
"I should hate to have something happen to you again. I hated to see someone trying to hurt you."
"I was lucky you were there." I scrunched my face in confusion, though. "May I ask… why were you there? I mean, how did you happen to be there?" Jacob just stared at me. He seemed uneasy. "Jacob?" I pressed on.
"Good evening." I knew that voice behind me. Edward.
Jacob looked at me, silently telling me to dismiss the topic. This made me suspect I already knew the reason.
Edward's orders. It had to be. Jacob would not do anything that Edward did not order.
"Good evening, Master Cullen. I was just keeping Miss Swan company until your return. I'll go check on supper now." He bowed to me and left promptly.
I slowly turned to face Edward and my lips parted as I took in his handsome appearance. Did he always have to be so striking? He was dressed in the silver suit I had made him; and, even though I had seen him in the suit before, it felt new to me.
I cleared my throat. "Good evening, Mr. Cullen."
"Edward. Edward would be nice, Isabella. I think we can do without the formalities."
I nodded. His eyes roamed down my attire and I noticed they lingered quite a while on my hoisted bosom. Again. I blinked nervously and brought my hand to my neck rubbing it in an attempt to shield myself from his eyes.
A smile spread across his lips. "Have I mentioned how becoming you are in this dress?"
I licked my lips a little. "Yes, you have. And I thank you. I-I think you look nice as well."
He humphed. "Thank you. Shall we?" He held out his arm for me to take. I slowly looped my arm around his and we walked elegantly into the dining room. I couldn't help but feel the whole thing was surreal. He sat me down in my chair first, just like a perfect gentleman would do and then took his seat across from me at the other end of the table.
The table was perfectly set and before I had time to catch my breath, a bowl of hot soup was placed before us. I was very hungry, so I wasted no time to begin slowly sipping small spoonfuls of the soup. The room was quiet as we ate. I tried to steal glances at him, but his eyes were already there to meet mine every time. Caught, I would then swiftly look away.
Edward ate his soup quickly, dipping his bread in and around his bowl. I supposed he was used to this lifestyle. "You eat so slowly," he chuckled.
I ate how a lady should or, rather, how I thought I was supposed to. "Perhaps you just eat too quickly," I replied.
"Mmm," he said as he snapped his fingers. A manservant promptly refilled his glass and then took his bowl away. Edward sipped his wine as he studied me from across the table. His lips held a soft smirk as he swirled the wine around in his glass.
"Do you have to stare at me so?" It made me embarrassed to even eat; the way he stared at me.
"Yes." This caught me off guard and I looked up at him with surprise. Did he not even deny he was blatantly staring at me? He shrugged off my expression and diverted his eyes to the ceiling in a mocking manner. "Shall I stare at the ceiling, I have seen for years, or should I fix my attention on my bride-to-be? Hard decision." He raised one brow as he turned his attention back to me.
I couldn't help the heat in my cheeks, trying to hide it as best as I could. I was thankful the dining hall was dimly lit.
The main course was served shortly after the remains of my soup were taken away. I was already quite full. I was raised to survive on little food. Courses of meals were never a privilege of the poor. A plate of sliced braised chicken and vegetables was placed before me. It was so wonderfully arranged on the plate, I hated to eat such art.
Edward grabbed his fork and knife. He ate quickly but delicately, slicing into the meat and delivering the tiny pieces of chicken into his mouth. When he saw I had yet to touch my food, he frowned. "The food is not to your liking?"
I picked up my fork and speared a carrot. "The food is very good. Thank you."
"But you are not eating."
"I am just not used to eating such big meals. A little soup and bread is all I need most of the time."
Edward chuckled. "That will change when you are with child. You should learn to eat a little more." Did he always have to keep bringing that up? I knew my end of the deal.
I decided not to say anything and sliced into a piece of chicken.
"I think you should know our marriage will be published in the papers tomorrow." He looked up at me for a moment. "As of tomorrow, you will officially be engaged to me on paper. We will have to decide on a date soon. I can also put in an ad for a lady's maid tomorrow, if you like."
My ears perked up. Lady's maid? I hadn't even given a thought to having a lady's maid. Of course I knew all wealthy women had them, but I never regarded myself as good enough to have someone wait on them. "A lady's maid?"
He looked up at me. "Yes. Surely you intend to have one. I think it would be smart to get acquainted with one now, so in the future, you have someone you feel comfortable with. I know you are capable of caring for your daily needs, but that may change when you are expecting."
I sighed. I could see his logic, even if I didn't like it. The last thing I wanted was someone lurking around me, waiting on me hand and foot. But it was what was done. Becoming Edward's wife would mean embracing all that came with it. "I agree." I took a sip of my wine. Edward seemed surprised at my agreeableness.
"They would be of your choosing, of course. Anyone you want. I hope they will also be a good friend to you as well. It can get lonely in this home without company. Jacob is always so busy, and Lisa already has a lot on her plate during the day." The only good friend I had was Alice. She was my true friend.
I stopped mid-chew. In fact, I was dreading having to part with her. I looked up at Edward. "It could be anyone I choose?"
"Well, as long as they are suitable for the job. Even though I want them to be a friend and comfort to you, they should know your safety comes first. Meaning, they will not encourage any sort of reckless behavior."
I gave Edward an exasperated look. He didn't need to speak to me like I was a child or a simpleton. "I know that. I'm not a child."
Edward smirked. "You are a great deal younger than me. It's not meant to be insulting, Isabella. I'm taking the necessary precautions, that's all." I looked at Edward. I had not even considered his age. He just always seemed so fit and in good health. How old was he?
"I think I know who I want as my lady's maid. If she is willing, I would love to have her."
Edward seemed surprised at my words and cleared his throat. "Of course. I hope you will send for her immediately. I will make sure she is well compensated as well, should she accept. I would like to meet her before she begins, though."
I nodded. I was sure Alice would love to meet Edward. I laughed on the inside.
"Edward?"
He looked across at me, waiting.
"Um. How old are you?" I was sure he knew my age, but I had never learned his. A slow smile crept across his lips.
"As I said, much older than you, Isabella."
" How much older?"
"Almost twice your age."
"36?"
"40. And I'm getting older every day. Now you can understand why I want to have a child should something happen to me." My eyes widened. I had no idea he was so much older than me. "Surprised at my age? Or is that disappointment in your eyes?"
I shook my head quickly. "No. I was just- I was just thinking, was all." He seemed fit enough. I knew of women with older husbands, but their fear was always the same - that they would collapse on them in the middle of being intimate. I looked Edward over more critically. He did not seem like the type that would do such a thing. He was hearty and very strong. He lifted me with ease on and off the horse earlier.
"I'm well-endowed and still able to meet any woman's desire." I shook my head in disgust.
"That is not what I was thinking."
"You mean, that is not what you would say out loud." He laughed.
"Do we always have to end up on this topic?" He eyed me with a mischievous grin.
"So, who is this lady's maid you are thinking of? What is her name? Where is she from?"
"Her name is Alice. She's my roommate right now, and we have become good friends. She and I are very close."
"She lives in the tenement housing? That is who you want? If she lives there, she cannot be-"
"You said anyone I wanted.
"Yes I did, but that anyone should be qualified."
"She is. She is more qualified than anyone else I know. She even tends to a wealthy family now." Edward still looked on in disagreement with my choice and was unmoved by my defense for Alice. Placing my hand on my stomach, I said, "I would think you would want your wife to be comfortable when she is with child." It was a low blow, but I was not above using it. Edward knew what I valued in life, and he used it against me. I could do the same thing. "If that is truly your wish, you should honor mine. If Alice accepts, there is no one else I would rather have. It would make me and the baby feel most comfortable."
Edward looked at me with both admiration and suspicion, as if he knew I had made the right move. Checkmate. "Very well," he replied in a low voice.
I felt a jolt of excitement at my first won battle with Edward. Seeing as I felt they would come rarely, I wanted to enjoy every moment of this victory. I smiled widely at Edward, but he didn't seem too keen on being outwitted.
When dessert was served, I enjoyed every morsel. It was a simple lemon tart with raspberry sauce. My victory only made it all the more sweet. Edward didn't seem too interested in the dessert. He took a few bites and then had it whisked away. From then on, he was content to simply watch me devour mine with an amused smirk.
Once finished, Edward and I retired to the drawing room where a warm fire was aglow and plush chairs and couches sat perfectly arranged. I took a seat on a chair close to the fire and Edward took the other that sat across from me.
The room was quiet and very cozy. I felt if given enough time, I could see myself falling asleep in the comfortable chair.
"I really enjoyed today," Edward said in a calm, soothing voice while gazing into the fire.
I would be lying if I said I didn't enjoy it somewhat as well, and I did not wish to be rude by not saying anything, either. "I found today most enjoyable as well." Edward turned his head to face me, as if looking for some untruthfulness in my words. There would be none to be found, though. I was being honest.
His eyes lingered down to my hands that sat in my lap and he smiled. Clearly he was pleased I wore the ring he had given me. I knew that was a battle I would never win with him. Not wearing the ring was not an option. His eyes met mine and I could see the hunger in his eyes. I cleared my throat and directed my gaze to the dancing flames in the fire.
"Do you think you could be happy here?" He asked, genuinely interested in the answer. The question caught me off guard because I didn't think he cared for my happiness. He would get what he wanted no matter what. I thought his question over and decided that I could indeed be happy. As long as my sisters were taken care of and Alice was with me, how could I not be?
"Yes. I think I could be."
Edward seemed pleased with the answer. He stood up from his chair and approached me. I looked at him with weary eyes, not sure of his intentions. He placed his hands on both sides of my chair and leaned forward into me. I scooted back against the chair, not sure what to do. Our eyes locked for a moment and then his eyes traveled down to my lips. I understood what he wanted. My heart was pounding in my chest. "Just one," he whispered.
I started to shake my head but found it difficult to deny him. Perhaps it was the atmosphere. Perhaps it was contemplating all he had done for me. Perhaps it was because I felt maybe he truly had a heart, after all. I blinked twice as Edward lowered his head and placed his warm lips on mine.
He leaned in further, crushing his lips lustfully onto mine. My eyes closed, and I began moving my lips against his. He groaned, lifted one of his hands and let his fingers slide into my hair. It felt nice to have his warm hand cuddle me in such a fashion. When his lips broke from mine, I found myself disappointed it was over so quickly. While still breathing heavily, he closed his eyes and leaned his head against my forehead, seemingly reluctant to let go. But when he opened his silver eyes again, he lowered his hand and slowly backed away.
He swallowed hard as I stared at him. I half hoped he would come in for another. Kissing Edward was not as unpleasant as I would have imagined. He was so - decisively passionate. He was intense but still so gentle. "Time to go home now." He said in a hoarse voice.
"I could stay a little while longer," I whispered.
"No. Your sisters will be missing you." I blinked a couple times in thought. He was right, of course. I felt ashamed he had to remind me. It was the first time I actually wanted to be someplace other than with my sisters. I shook my head. What was happening to me? I decided to abandon my foolish thoughts and remember Edward and I had a contract. Not a real marriage. I had to remember what was most important - my sisters. Not him.
"You are right," I said, quickly standing. "I should like to get home to see them."
"Good. Jacob will see you home." My eyes widened as I looked for a reason behind his sudden distance with me. Was he angry with me? Did I do something wrong? Why was he not seeing me home?
"Oh. I thought you might."
"Jacob is well qualified. He will make sure no harm comes to you." I had no doubt Jacob could protect me, but I still was curious about Edward's sudden coldness towards me. Was he disappointed I was not an experienced kisser? Did he regret kissing me? For some reason, I felt slightly hurt he did not wish to accompany me home.
I opened my mouth to speak, but then closed it in thought. I opened it again, "I don't mean to be forward, but have I said something wrong?"
Edward looked at me, perplexed as to why I was asking such a question. But, I thought, surely he must know why. He was always so adamant about taking me home himself. Now he was just going to delegate the task to Jacob? Was he already so bored with me? "No. You have done nothing wrong. I am pleased with the way tonight turned out. I have a few affairs to attend to right now, and I know you will be safe with Jacob."
I nodded once. Right. I forgot. His work came first. He said as much when he proposed. "Alright." Edward saw me out to the carriage, but he was careful not to be overly giving with his touch. He held my hand to help me into the carriage, but quickly snatched it away. I was truly confused. I tried not to let his cold demeanor get to me. After all, Edward did not love me. He merely played his part well.
"Goodnight." I said in a clipped tone, refusing to look at him.
Edward was quiet as he shut the carriage door. "Goodnight, Isabella. You still look exquisite, even when you are disappointed." I jerked my head to look at him, but he had already turned to leave and was walking back to the gates of his estate, his black coat swaying in the cool breeze.
I glared at his backside as the carriage took off. Arrogant, pompous man. It didn't matter how Edward behaved, I told myself. I had won. I had good news for Alice, which I hoped she would accept. I could not wait to get home and tell her.
So Edward showed a little more of himself. But is it himself? Or is he playing a part? Please review. I would love to hear your guys' input!