Author Note: My apologies. I had some family issues (death/funerals). Therefore I put the story aside to travel and be with my family. Here is the next chapter. Hope you enjoy it. In between finishing up business with my family, I'll be working on the next chapter. Thank you for reading.

Alice opened the door when I knocked. She looked at me with weary eyes as I walked through.

I sighed as I took a seat.

Alice poured me a glass of water and set it in front of me. "So? How was it?"

"It was interesting."

"Interesting?"

"Yeah. We spoke of a few things."

"Oh. I see. He still intends to marry you, though."

"Yes. But I must speak with you about something."

She raised a brow as I started to fidget, taking a moment to think of the right words. I did not want Alice to think I was taking advantage of her, or asking her to be beneath me in any way. Alice shook her head. "Well? Tell me. My heart is beating with anticipation."

"Alice," I started. "You are my good friend. My best friend."

She reached across the table and set her hand on mine. "Yes. And you are mine."

I smiled back at her. "You know I would never ask you to do anything you didn't want to do. And if you are uncomfortable, I understand." I sat looking at her in silence for a moment.

Alice laughed. "Bella, you still have not told me."

"Edward and I talked tonight. He insists I have a lady's maid. When he brought it up, there was only one person who came to my mind. I know you work for a wealthy family, and you know all about what is proper and what is not. I don't know anything, really. And there is no one else I would rather have by my side, but you. If you accept, you would not be anything less than a friend than to me, though. I- I hope you know that. So, will you? Will you come with me as my lady's maid?"

Alice looked thoughtful for a moment and then let out a giggle and smiled. "Are you mad? How could you be nervous to ask me such a thing? Of course I will go with you! I can't believe it! I would love to join you."

"Really?" I smiled. I could just cry from happiness.

"Yes. A thousand times." She reached across and hugged me close. "You don't even have to ask twice."

I smiled and hugged her back. "You know, you will not really be my maid. Just a friend to be with me as I embrace this new life."

"I would love to Bella, I really would. Heaven knows I would much rather be with you than that awful family I work for now." I laughed a little.

"Thank you, Alice. And the girls will be there, too. I know they would adjust much better if you came. They would miss you too much."

"You have yet to tell them anything," she said with a little caution. "You should tell your sisters at least that you are engaged."

"Yes, I know. I'm going to. Soon. I think they will be much happier in knowing we can all go together. Maybe, when I tell them, it won't be such a shock.

Alice smiled. "Are you sure I will fit in? With you being a suitable lady now?"

"I'm not. You know I'm not. I'm still the same."

"But you will have to be. If you are going to be the wife of Edward Cullen, you are going to have to embrace the ladies in his social circle."

"Augh. Please, don't make me think about that right now."

"Bella. You are going to be Edward Cullen's wife. He's very well known. And to be his wife, you will have to hold yourself to a higher status. You may not like the snobbery of the ladies you will be around, but you must learn to hold a conversation with them and to hold your ground. Hold your head high and walk with confidence."

"I will try."

"I will help you."

"I know. Putting on the act of being a fine lady is one thing, but that's not what I'm most afraid of," I said, as I put my hand over my stomach. Alice looked to where my hand now rested. "I don't know if I can give him what he wants."

"Children?" She asked in a small voice. I nodded. "Bella, do not be afraid. That is what all men want. To bear children is a gift. It's what makes us women unique and desirable. Men might be able to gain wealth and status, but without a woman, their name and inheritance fades with them. Edward Cullen is a man who has gained much, it is logical that he would want to pass on his inheritance to someone."

"Is that all I am good for? To be a baby maker?"

Alice chuckled. "Maybe, you shouldn't look at it that way. It really is a privilege to bear children. It's a joy, really. And you will have the wealth to bring them up comfortably." I nodded. Perhaps it was the way I was thinking about it. What she said made so much sense.

"I'm so happy you are coming with me."

"Me too. I have never met Master Cullen before, but I hope he does not mind me."

"He won't. He has given me permission to choose whoever I want. But, he did say he would like to meet you, though."

She smiled. "Very well, then. I have no problem with that. When shall I meet him?"

"Soon, I should hope. Our marriage is being published in the papers tomorrow. We will officially be engaged on paper." I looked at the exquisite ring on my finger. "I just wish we had more time. Everything seems to be moving so fast. I feel he doesn't even know me that well. Nor I, him."

"Has he been kind to you when you are with him?"

"Yes. I mean, he is an upstanding gentleman. He is everything a woman would want, I suppose, but I don't think he loves me."

"Why would he ask you to marry him, if he felt nothing for you?"

"That's just it. I haven't figured that out."

"Well, he's a fine man. He could have any woman he wanted, but he chose you. He must see how special you are. And he is not wasting any time making you his wife. He must feel something."

While everything she said made sense, I still had doubts. Edward and I did not have a very romantic introduction, nor did we get along half the time. We disagreed on what a marriage should be, and what true love really meant. To him, it was a contract. To me, it was a feeling in the heart.

"I suppose."

She gave me a tight smile and rubbed my shoulder, "come on, let's get some sleep."

EPOV

Jacob returned with a small smirk.

"She is home safe?" I asked.

"Yes. She is home safe."

"Thank you for seeing her home."

"A pleasure, as always, to escort her anywhere."

I sighed as I took a sip of wine from a glass I had been nursing as I impatiently waited for Jacob to return. He looked cautiously at the glass in my hand, as if wondering how much I had.

"How did dinner go with the young lady?"

"Well enough."

"That's a relief."

"I know how to have dinner with a woman, Jacob."

"Yes, but it's rare they leave before the dawn."

"That was before I was engaged to Isabella. I have no need to dabble in the company of other women."

"Good to hear. I'm happy to see you settle down, Sir."

I drained the rest of my wine. "I will be happy when I hear my son's first cries echo through these halls."

"She is a fine woman. I am sure she will bear you many children."

"I'm sure," I mumbled under my breath.

"Does that not please you, Sir?"

"Of course it pleases me. That is, if she actually produces them."

"Well, I'm sure she will. Any lady is capable of carrying a chi-" he stopped when he looked at my face, blinking twice. "I mean-"

"Don't." I snapped, narrowing my eyes at him. Why did he have to bring up such harsh memories? I gritted my teeth.

"I"m sorry, Sir. I didn't mean to assume or bring her-"

"Stop." I said again. He put his hands behind his back and lowered his head. I knew his intentions were good and he did not mean to bring up such a topic, but I was still angry. My mind was flooded with regret and images I wished to forget. I looked at him with a grim face. "I forgive you. Please watch your words next time. I'll be in my chambers. You are dismissed. Goodnight." I put my empty glass on a nearby table and slowly ascended the stairs.

Once in my chambers, I slumped down into a chair and watched the flames dance in the fireplace. I closed my eyes and listened to the soothing crackle of burning wood in the silence of the night.

I forced myself to push the memories out of my head. I would prefer a completely empty mind to having the past haunt me so.

In my attempt to find peace and calm, my thoughts drifted to Bella. I could see her in my mind's eye. Her eyes. Her lips. To kiss her had felt amazing. Such innocence. The marvelous colors she turned when she was near me. Clearly, very naive to a man's touch.

I dipped my hand into my pocket and pulled out the small ribbon I plucked from Isabella's hair while she slept one day. I smirked as I rubbed the satin between my fingers. I remember that day clearly.I had arrived home early from the factory. I thought she had left early, as it was deathly silent in her office, but I had not been notified when she left as was customary. I slowly opened the door and saw her at her work table, her head laying comfortably on her folded arms atop a pile of clothes. She was sound asleep.

I quietly walked in and watched for a while. Her pink cheeks.. Her half-parted lips moving slightly as she slept. I couldn't help but think how beautiful she looked. Her purity. Her determination to take care of those before herself. Even the childish way she looked at the world fascinated me.

Knock Knock

Caught off guard, I quickly shoved the ribbon in my pocket. "Come in."

Bailey, my butler,opened the door. "Good evening, Sir." I nodded. "I just came to stoke the fire and prepare your bath."

I nodded again. He put another log on the fire and brushed his hands together. "You seem lost in thought," he commented as he passed by. He knew me well, but I decided to stay silent all the same.

I could hear him running the water in my tub, a recent luxury. After I had to let my last valet go, Bailey stepped in, covering most of his duties. As particular a I am; however, I prefer to dress myself. This ensures Bailey remains in my employ. It is hard to find good, trusted help these days.

"I'm just going to go grab some fresh clothes for you." He said, startling me out of my reverie.

"Thank you," I said in appreciation.

When he returned a few moments later, he promptly laid out my robe and night clothes on the bed then turned to me, awaiting any further instruction.

I sighed. "Thank you, Bailey."

"A pleasure, as always, Sir." He turned to leave, but stopped when I called out.

"Bailey. I wanted to ask you something."

"Of course, Sir. Anything."

I cleared my throat. "I was curious. You have been with me for many years. You have tended to me carefully and perhaps know me better than most. What are your thoughts about Miss Swan?" Lisa and Jacob have spent the most time with Isabella, but Bailey would have had the opportunity to observe her closely at dinner as well as the ear of the rest of the staff.

"Oh. Well. I do not know what you wish me to say, Sir."

"The truth. Whatever it may be. Your honesty is all I seek right now. Afterall, she will be your new mistress."

He smiled softly. "I find her very pleasing. She is kind. She has a mind of her own, that's for sure."

"Yes. She does."

"She will need some guidance embracing her new life, but I feel she will adjust well."

"One can only hope."

Bailey paused for a moment. "I believe... she also will make a fine mother." My eyes snapped up to his. "She seems very gentle and loving. But then, you have always had a soft spot for women who are."

I turned away slightly. "I'm not looking for a replacement for what I lost. I'm confident nothing will replace-" I stopped. I didn't even wish to utter her name. It was far too painful.

Bailey sighed. "Of course not. I would never presume to think that, Sir. Nothing will ever replace her. It is clear she has your past. But, one can move forward with someone new. And perhaps, finally, find happiness."

I cleared my throat. "And do you think Miss Swan is capable of bringing that happiness?"

He smirked. "I do."

"Your honesty is much appreciated. I feel I should tell you, I had hoped Isabella would choose to have Lisa as her lady's maid. However, she informs me that she has a close friend who is a qualified, professional lady's maid. It would be a comfort for her to have someone familiar by her side."

"Certainly, Sir."

"I know nothing of this new maiden, which has me on edge. I hope you will not find it insulting for me to ask that you-that you might-"

"Be a second pair of eyes?"

"Yes," I breathed out.

"Another honor, Sir. I will watch her as best I can."

"Thank you, Bailey. I appreciate your candor and your discretion. That is all."

"Of course, Sir.I'll leave you now. I hope you have a good night, Sir."

I nodded once. "Goodnight."

With a soft click of the door, he departed and I was once again left to my thoughts.

I had strong feelings for Isabella. Was I truly in love with her or was I just using her to try to stifle the ache in my heart? Was my love for what I lost manipulating my decisions? Did I see Isabella as a replacement? I hated to admit she held so many similarities with my past wife.

I got up and walked closer to the fireplace. I pulled at a small string and looked up at the portrait that was unveiled. It only captured a fraction of her true beauty, but my breath nearly stopped. It had been so long since I looked upon her face.

She was so beautiful. She was my everything. My joy. My pride. My heart.

"Forgive me." I whispered. I knew it was only a painting, but her eyes looked at me with such love, I could stare into them forever.

With one yank, I pulled the curtain down to cover her portrait, shielding my eyes and heart from painful memories.

A part of me wondered if Isabella would, indeed, grow to be a decent wife. She seemed competent. She was very gentle and loving when it came to her loved ones. I could only imagine how she would be with a baby of her own.

I smiled slightly. I suppose it didn't matter too much if she was a decent wife. I only needed her to birth me a son. My heart started to beat faster at the thought of having her beneath me, moaning and breathless with the pleasure I would give her.

Everything would be new for her. A man's touch in places she most likely had never touched herself. She would be my rose to deflower and bed as I saw fit.

I could not deny that I had a passionate attraction to Isabella, but was it only lust that drew me to her? She was so pure. So young. So innocent. She knew nothing of me and my actions. The things I had done in life that allowed me to have the sort of prestige I enjoy. The men I had humiliated, decimated, and drove to poverty with cruelty. The women I had defiled after the death of my wife, with little care of their comfort. I suppose in some form, I was monstrous.

Isabella made everything different. Looking at her inspired me to be civil. She brought a calmness over me I had not felt with any woman other than my wife. Her sometimes childish, uninhibited demeanor made me smile. I could never engage with her in this state, no matter how I wished. Not with the status I held in society.

I was not sure if I could give her the love she sought. Her romantic, fairy tale love. In a way, my heart still lay elsewhere.

Despite knowing this, I could not bring myself to let her go.

Perhaps it was monstrous of me to keep her for myself, willingly or coerced. I could not imagine another man having his way with her. I could not put my finger on it, but I knew she was mine from the first moment I laid eyes on her. From that moment on, I set out to make her mine.

Happy or not, she would belong to me. I pitied her in some way, since I knew I did not play fair to get her. There were no limits to what I would have done to have her. She never stood a chance.

And now, I had her. She was mine. Only a wedding was needed to bind her to me on paper. And then, of course, the consummation of our marriage.

I would have her pregnant with my seed in no time.

—8—8—8—

Bella POV

It was early in the morning and I had chosen to get up since sleep failed to stay with me.

I looked out the window, examining the morning mist and calmness. My eyes drifted down at the ring on my finger and I blushed at the thought of what it would be like to wake up after our wedding night.

Was it truly as enjoyable as some made it sound? And would it be enjoyable with him? I blinked twice as my mind replayed the glimpse of bare skin I saw when he had come in for the fitting of his new suit.

Edward was handsome, yes, but I knew he could be brutish. Perhaps love making was enjoyable, but would we really be making love? I will do my duty and let him have his way. After all, he did not believe in true love; or, as he called them, my "ideas of fairy tale romance."

I could not deny that I was excited about not having to worry about putting bread on the table. I would be an upstanding woman in society, and be able to wear something other than rags all the time.

I smiled. I would even be able to go to market and get presents for my sisters when the occasion called for it. And, I suppose, having a child of my own would not be too bad, knowing I could care for them properly. Of course, having Alice and my sisters beside me would make me content, no matter what the cost.

I suppose it didn't really matter if Edward and I loved each other. We were meeting each other's needs in a practical way. He needed me to bear him a son, and I needed him to care for us materially.

Edward had already proven he could hold up his end of the deal. It was now left up to me to follow through. The most I could hope for was that he was understanding of my innocence to a man's touch.

As I gazed out the window, I saw a black carriage come into view. I jolted up, my eyes wide. It looked like Edward's carriage. Why would he be here this early in the morning? Surely, he didn't expect me to be awake at this hour.

My heart started to beat fast. A figure stepped out of the carriage. It was Jacob! He looked around, as if searching for someone. He disappeared from my sight as he walked up to the entrance of our building.

I looked down at my attire in frustration. Quickly, I grabbed a long shawl and slipped my feet into a pair of ragged flats. They were not my normal presentable boots, but those would take too long to put on.

I waited for a knock, but nothing came. After a moment of waiting, I went back to the window and looked down to see Jacob walking back to the carriage.

Had he changed his mind? Had he tried to reach me and could not?

Without thinking, I rushed to the door and opened it quietly so as not to wake anyone up. I quickly made my way down the stairs and outside just as he was getting into the carriage.

"Jacob," I yelled.

Jacob stopped with one foot in the carriage and looked back at me. He furrowed his brow. "Miss Swan," he exclaimed.

He looked back into the carriage and seemed to be speaking with someone. He then turned and made his way over to me. "Miss Swan, what are you doing outside? It's quite chilly and dangerous for you to be out and about here. Please, go back inside."

"I'm sorry. I just-I couldn't sleep. I was looking out the window and saw you pull up. I-I thought you were coming up, but when you didn't, I just thought I would come down. I thought you might need to speak with me."

"Yes," he said hesitantly. "Yes, it is true that I came to drop off a message for you. There seemed to be no one awake to take the message, though, so I thought I would just deliver it later."

"Oh," I said, a little embarrassed by my thoughtless actions.

Jacob smiled a little.

"I thought it must have been important. I suppose I just acted without thinking."

"It is important, Miss Swan, but I would never put your safety at risk for it."

My breath caught as I looked past Jacob and saw Edward stepping out of the carriage. He was dressed splendidly, as usual. A black vest over a white long sleeved shirt and black trousers to match. He pulled on a long black coat as he turned our way.

My heart started to pump uncontrollably, now truly regretting stepping foot out of my room. I did not wish for Edward to see me this way. I didn't even know he had accompanied Jacob here.

His coat swayed behind him as he made determined strides towards us. Jacob turned around and sighed. "Mr. Cullen," he started, "I didn't know she would run out."

Edward stopped in front of me and looked me up and down, indifference in his eyes. I could not really tell what he was thinking. It probably was not good. A man did not wish to see his future bride this way, I was sure.

I lowered my eyes.

"Leave us," Edward said to Jacob.

Jacob turned promptly and walked back to the carriage. I rubbed the back of my neck, ashamed and afraid I had gotten him into trouble.

"Isabella? What are you doing?"

"I-I was up. I could not sleep. I saw him leaving and I thought he had a message for me." My voice trailed out as I finished speaking. Even as I said the words, it sounded foolish. "I didn't know you were in the carriage," I said, looking up at him.

An amused smile fluttered across his lips. "I suppose you didn't. How could you?"

Heat filled my cheeks. "H-how are you, Mr. Cullen?"

"Very well, Miss Swan. And you?"

"Yes. Very good. I'm well."

"I'm pleased to hear so." I nodded awkwardly. This seemed to be a strange conversation to be having with my soon-to-be husband.

"May I ask why you are here?"

"I wanted to send you a note. I thought I would stop by to drop it off before I go into the factory for the day."

"Oh. Well. What did you want to say?" Was he calling off the marriage? Did he have second thoughts after last night? After all, he didn't want to see me home. Perhaps he came to the conclusion he was making a mistake.

"First, to bid you a good morning. Second, to let you know I will be away on business for a week or so."

A week? That seemed so long. "So long." I whispered.

"What?" He asked. Although his mischievous expression told me he knew exactly what I had said.

"Nothing. Is that all, then?"

"Yes. I didn't want you to worry if you tried to reach out and received no response on account of my absence."

"Oh. Ok. Are you leaving tomorrow?"

"Tonight."

I didn't know why I cared so much, but I didn't want him to leave. I felt as though he would not come back, that he would forget about me. Maybe he would find another.

"I understand."

"Do you?" He smiled. I nodded once, looking away. "I will not be gone that long. A week passes quickly." I nodded again. "Please look at me, Isabella."

I slowly met his stormy eyes.

"I have other businesses I must attend to. I will try, however, to be back within three days. For you." This sparked a glimmer of happiness in my heart, but I knew it was wrong to force him to hurry on my account. I certainly didn't want to hold him back from his work. After all, we had an agreement. He would tend to his work, and I would have my independence.

"No. Please. Take all the time you require. Your work is important. I understand."

A flash of humor slipped out from behind his smirk. "It is important. That is why I will work hard to be done in three days." His gloved hand reached up and pushed a curl behind my ear. I bit my lip. I enjoyed his touch too much for my own comfort.

"You don't have to do that. I was merely curious was all. I wish you would stay the full week if you need to."

Edward nodded. "As you wish, Miss Swan."

I pulled at my shawl as he looked over my attire again. It was chilly outside and I had small goosebumps on my arms.

Edward cleared his throat. "You should go inside, Miss Swan. I would hate for you to take ill on my account."

"Yes. Of course. Well. Have a safe trip. I hope your business goes well."

"It always does, but thank you."

"Goodbye, Mr. Cullen."

I turned to leave, but he reached out and pulled me into him. My eyes widened and my hands went to his chest to brace myself from the sudden movement. He smiled down at my stunned expression. "Don't act like you are not disappointed I'm leaving."

"Edward," I hissed. "This is shameful. People might see."

He laughed. "Well then, it's a good thing you can't read my thoughts." His head leaned towards me and he quickly crushed his lips against mine while wrapping his warm arms around me. The strength of his arms pierced my thin nightdress, igniting me with passion.

I opened my lips a little, enjoying the feeling of him exploring my mouth with his tongue. It was so new, but it felt so right.

His tongue touched mine as his lips moved in rhythm with mine. Too soon, it was over. I blinked as I stood in the warmth of his body, my heart pounding. What was happening to me? I just let him continue to hold me, not wanting to leave his embrace.

He leaned his forehead against mine. "Three days. I will be back. I suspect you will be very busy settling into your new home to even miss me too much."

"What?" I said, slightly dazed.

"You do not think I will let my wife-to-be continue to live in a slum like this, do you? You will pack your things and settle your sisters and yourself into what will be our new home."

"Edward. I can't. I wouldn't be right. What would society think if we lived together before being married?"

"Do you always need to argue? As of today, our marriage has been published. I have made every appropriate arrangement. You will have a whole half of the home to yourself. It will be dignified. Under such circumstances, anyone would understand my reasons for taking you out of a place like this."

I opened my mouth to protest, but shut it again when I saw it would do no good. His mind was made up.

"I will not allow you to live in this filthy slum one more day. I have more than enough to put you up in comfort until our wedding. This is non-negotiable."

I nodded. "Ok."

Edward looked surprised by my compliance, but relieved as well. "Jacob will see to it that all your things are moved carefully to your chambers. Anything you may need to buy, just tell Jacob. He will escort you and handle all the expenses."

"That won't be necessary. I mean, I won't need to buy anything. Your home is more than enough. More than I could have ever hoped for in my lifetime. I could not imagine wanting more than is being provided."

His hand cupped my chin and gently lifted it up so I met his eyes. "Isabella. You are no longer a commoner. You are my soon-to-be wife. And as such, you will have all these things, and more. It is time you get used to holding your head a little higher. Not above mine, of course," he smirked, "but enough to look beyond my boots."

"I don't know how to do that, Edward. I mean, not yet."

"Learn."

"I'm trying."

"I'm not asking you to be perfect. I know these things take time, but I would consider it a great improvement for you to have proper attire and to look me in the eyes when we speak. That's not too hard, is it?"

I looked down at my attire now and felt embarrassed. How must it look for a fine man like him to be holding a seamstress dressed in a nightdress made from rags?

"No. It's not." I looked him in the eye, fighting the urge to look away. He smiled at me.

"As for not needing to buy anything... I would think you would like to look into finding a wedding gown. Unless, you plan on making your own."

"Yes. I mean no. I will look into finding one." Everything was happening so fast.

"I understand this is a lot to take in. I want you to know how pleased I am you are making adjustments as needed. I think our arrangement will be a very practical one, indeed."

I struggled not to roll my eyes. Did he always have to remind me that our marriage was merely a contract?

I replied curtly, "Yes. I'm sure. We both will live up to our end of the deal and we will be a perfect match in society."

"With a little romance and fairy tales woven in, of course." He smirked then kissed my forehead. "Goodbye, Isabella."

I was so comfortable, I didn't want to leave the warmth of his embrace. And he knew it. Once I saw the amusement in his eyes, I mustered up the strength to pull away and take a few steps back.

"Goodbye, Edward."

He pulled a piece of paper from his pocket and put it in the palm of my hand. "Until we meet again." He smiled. "Please go inside now. I'll see you safely in before I leave."

I folded my fingers around the note, tempted to open and read it right away. I took one last look at Edward. His silky black hair that complemented his grey eyes. His plump red lips that kissed me passionately.

Catching my gaze, Edward raised a brow. "Sorry to disappoint, love. You will have to wait until our wedding night to see more. I made a promise to you, I would not take advantage until we are properly wed."

I gasped at his words, slightly embarrassed how I was openly taking in his manly features. "Do you always have to be so forward?"

He laughed. "I only say the things you are thinking, but are too shy to say yourself."

"I'm not having this conversation with you. You don't know my thoughts."

"You have not given our wedding night any thoughts? I doubt that."

"Goodbye, Edward. Have a safe trip." I turned and walked into the tenement building, forcing myself not to look back at Edward. I just couldn't resist a small look, though.

When I did, he was just where I left him. Still and powerful in the misty morning he stood, grey pools filled with victory staring back at me.

I sent a very small smile his way and disappeared behind the door. Once back in my room, I ran over to the small window just in time to get a glimpse of his carriage pulling away.

I smiled again, but it fell when I thought about him being gone for the next few days. Suddenly, I remembered the note in my hand.

I quickly unfolded the note and read.

"To my Isabella,

I hope you are well.

I am going away for a week on business. Although I won't be able to say goodbye to you properly, I hope this note will serve, although a poor one, as a substitute. I have made arrangements for you to move into what will be our home while I am away. Please do not debate me on this.

I have gone through great efforts to make sure you and your sisters will have all the comforts anyone could want. You will be well taken care of by Lisa, and Jacob while I am away. They will introduce you to Bailey and the rest of the household staff. They will also be happy to escort you around your new home until you learn your way. Please let them help you.

As you know, our marriage is now public. This also means word has reached my family. My mother has already sent word she wishes to visit and meet you, as I knew she would. She will be visiting shortly after I return. I hope you will take care to buy suitable clothing for your new status. I would not want my new wife to walk around in rags. Jacob will handle all expenses.

You looked exquisite last night and I enjoyed our dinner together. I look forward to coming home to my blushing bride-to-be. Do not miss me too terribly, even though I shall you.

With love,

Edward Cullen.

I already missed him and he had not even left yet. I shook my head. What was happening to me?

Did Edward really mean the words he said? Or, was he playing the husband's role very well? Would everything change once I was officially his wife? Maybe he wished to put on a good show for everyone before the marriage. I would not be surprised if that was his thinking.

His mother was coming to visit. I'm sure she would not be happy to find a tattered bride-to-be. Maybes he was just looking to keep the peace between us long enough to get past the marriage day.

Or. Maybe. Maybe he did in fact care for me, just a little? I could not be sure. Edward's actions were so sporadic. I could never tell what that man was thinking most of the time.

All would be revealed with time.

"You are up early." I jumped at Alice's voice behind me. "Oh. Sorry. I didn't mean to startle you."

"No. No. It's fine. I was just thinking. I, um, got a message from Edward."

"How wonderful. Good news?"

"Well, he is going away on business, but he wants me to move into his home while he is away."

"Ah. Before the wedding?"

"Yes."

"Is that what you want?"

It didn't matter what I wanted. He said it wasn't up for debate, anyhow. "He doesn't want me to live here any longer. He feels it's dangerous. And I agree with him, that it is dangerous. Nothing would make me happier than to see my sisters out of this place. He said he has taken great measures to make sure all arrangements are respectable."

"I see."

"And you will be there to protect me if he does anything inappropriate." I smiled. "I'm counting on you."

She smiled back. "Well I wouldn't hesitate to give him what he deserves should he try to be anything less than a gentleman to you before you are wed."

I laughed. "I hope so."

"It isn't normally done, but I suppose I can see where he is coming from as far as your safety is concerned. He is very high in status. As his wife-to-be, you should not live in a place like this."

"I'm sure he is worried how it will reflect on him."

"Not just that. Others may look to hurt you or use you to get money from him. The price a man like him can pay for the life of his wife would be considerable. Or if you were ever with child, that price would no doubt double. You won't be regarded as a commoner any longer. To society you will be a fine lady, but to criminals, a target."

"I suppose. I didn't think about that."

Alice smiled. "He's looking out for you safety, I'm sure."

I nodded back with a soft smile.

Alice put a cup of tea in front of me. "I think we ought to start packing today, if Edward wants you moved in."

"And you," I said. "You will be coming with me."

"I don't know if Mr. Cullen would want someone in his home he hasn't met yet."

"Alice. You are coming with me. And if he has a problem, he can take it up with me. We already discussed it, and he said whoever I wanted. I want you to be by my side. I don't think I'll be able to survive without you."

She smiled softly. "I would be happy to accompany you."

It should be interesting seeing Bella get used to her new life. And interesting, also, to see things heat up and blossom between her and Edward.

Please leave me a comment or short review of your thoughts/feedback. Thank you, as always, for reading and sharing your feedback with me. It is appreciated and it lets me know as the author that my readers understand what is going on in the story!-Lostatseaforever