THIRD UPDATE IN ONE WEEK, YAYYYYY! THANKS FOR READING AND REVIEWING EVERYONE! :)

IT WAS BROUGHT TO MY ATTENTION THAT CHAPTERS SIX AND SEVEN WERE THE SAME. I CORRECTED THAT AND UPLOADED THE REAL CHAPTER SIX. I'M SORRY FOR THE MIX UP.

Q & A TIME!

Q: Are Edward, Jasper and Emmett Vampires?

A: Sorry but I can't tell you guys nor can I tell you if any of his staff are.

Q: Did Bella mentioning Edward's teeth, cold hands and him not eating have any significance?

A: Maybe! Is he a vampire? Who knows. It's good that you guys are following details though!

Q: Was it Bella's scent that attracted Edward to her or did he fall for Bella because she has no interest in money, material things or was it just love at first sight?

A: For him to be attracted to her scent he would have to be a vampire. I can't say if he is so it could be her scent but like in most Twi fics it was definitely love at first sight!

Q: Is Bella not to be trusted as well?

A: Who knows, probably. The way this story is going I wouldn't even trust that sweet old lady, Ms. Hall.

Q: Is this whole thing a trick orchestrated by Edward and Bella?

A: I wish! Bella and Edward are indeed in a conflict. This isn't some game they're playing on the media and everyone else. Besides, no one-male or female would willing agree to be labeled a rapist. At least no one that I know.

Q: Was Bella not really raped and doing this all for revenge?

A: Bella and Edward first met at the youth center. They have no past together, whether good or bad for her to want revenge of any sort. If she was really raped? You know I can't tell you. Please stop asking me that specific question lol.

Q: Is Alice making Bella lie?

A: Who said Bella's lying? Maybe she isn't or maybe she is. Alice has nothing to do with this situation of Edward and Bella's.

Q: Where are Bella's parents?

A: Sigh. I can't tell you but y'all are going to find out soon. As a matter of fact, we'll be seeing how Esme feels about her son being charged with false imprisonment and rape. Wonder who she believes...

FYI! No, Edward did not send his men to attack Nick. He sent them to reach out and gently touch-who am I kidding! Yes, he sent them to beat the crap out of Nick and warn him to stay away from Bella or there will be dire consequences. There, I said it-lol. You will be reading about the incident very soon!

Anything else just ask. :)

This chapter isn't a flashback. You'll know when a flashback is taking place.


During the present...

Alice POV

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing. I told you I'm not in the mood."

"You always say that but return to my bed time after time."

"I came here to spend time with you, not to do this." I gestured to our naked bodies.

I pulled out of his embrace.

"Tell me what's wrong, you never want to make love anymore and you're growing more distant everyday. You barely spoke or touched your food when we were out to dinner last night. Whenever I'm talking to you you're somewhere off in space or look uninterested."

"That's not true."

"It is true and we both know its about."

"How would you feel if you got into a relationship with the bestfriend of the man who raped your bestfriend behind her back?"

"Guilt is eating you."

"You're damn right it's eating me and you're lying there so damn calm without a care in the world."

"I've already told you that we can't do anything about the past. It's unfortunate that we had to meet under such circumstances but sometimes life is like that. For the record, we don't know if he raped her or not."

"I do. Bella wouldn't lie to me."

"Alice, we don't know what went on on-board that jet that night."

"And that's suppose to make me feel better and be okay with this. It still doesn't make it right, Jasper."

"We've already been over this numerous times and I've told you everything I know. The morning after the alleged rape I received some urgent news about a spy in our company who has been leaking information. It couldn't be discussed over the phone so I called Edward to meet in person. He told me he had just returned but was still in the air. I drove to meet him when he landed and when I went on board the jet I saw Isabella."

"She looked like someone who had just had sex the night before but she looked fine. She didn't look traumatized or anything of the sort. Nor did she seem to be in fear of Edward, he discussed dinner plans for that night with her then he walked her to a waiting car and they kissed goodbye. I watched her happily kiss him back. The next time I laid eyes on the girl was during the trial. Are you happy?"

"I see your story hasn't changed. You tell it exactly the same way every time."

"Because it's the truth."

"The hundred times you've told it you never specified what you meant by she looked like she just had sex."

"Do I need to spell it out?"

"Yes, spell it out!"

"She wasn't walking properly and covered in hickeys which you already know by the damn pictures your friend put up in court. Edward did mention he was dating a virgin so I wasn't surprised."

"And you didn't notice the bruises?"

"What bruises? You mean those tiny red marks the prosecution magnified by ten then displayed? No, that morning I didn't notice any bruises. I was not staring at Isabella and had no reason to look at her, the girl isn't my type."

"You were supposed to be called to testify before Edward takes the stand yet you went to Dubai on business last week before the subpoena could even get into your hands."

"I had to work, is that a crime?"

"But you're back."

"Your point?"

"I can subtly suggest to Rosalie to hold off on letting you take the stand since you're back in town."

"No response."

"If you have to testify will you tell the truth?"

Jasper didn't answer me and I felt anger surge through me.

"Answer me!"

"What do you expect me to do?"

"When Bella got home that morning she looked a mess and was so upset. When she walked I could tell she was in pain. I thought she got mugged or keep telling me the same story the exact same way but you're lying to me! The only thing that looked fine on Bella that morning was the new clothes she was wearing. I want you to tell me the truth!"

"I am telling you the truth!"

"No you're not. I want you to tell me what she really looked like when you saw her. And I also want you to testify and tell the truth in court."

"It doesn't matter if I testify or not. Edward and I are friends, people will expect my testimony to be very similar to his and to side with him."

"It matters to me."

"If you think I'm going to get on the stand and say I saw anything else than what I've already told you-you're out of your mind. Alice, I'm done with subject. I don't want to hear about Isabella or Edward. Whatever happens happens."

"But you already know what's going to happen, don't you Jasper?"

"Excuse me?"

"Stop pretending like you don't know what I'm talking about! I want you to answer me honestly. Please, just tell me the truth." I begged as I held his face in my hands.

"Did Edward confide in you?"

No response.

"Please tell me and be honest, Jasper. If Bella looked disheveled, sad or even if she was in a less than fine condition when you saw her that morning...would you testify about it in court?"

No response.

"Would you even tell me?"

Jasper wouldn't answer me but the look in his eyes was all the answer I needed. He wouldn't tell me anything even if he knew.

"Wow. Nine months. We've been together nine fucking months and you wouldn't even be honest with me!" I felt like a fool and I couldn't stop the hot tears from falling.

"Alice, I've already told you I don't know if he hurt your friend or not."

"And if you did you still wouldn't tell me! I can't do this, Jasper."

I couldn't see the anger in Jasper's eyes.

"What do you mean you can't do this?" He asked calmly but I could tell he was upset.

"This! Us! I can't keep this up. I'm the one who pushed and hounded Bella to go out with that son of a bitch. I can't take waking up and looking in Bella's sad, depressed eyes every morning knowing I'm going to be in your bed at night betraying her."

I got up and started to get dress.

"Then move, none of this is your fault. I've offered to buy you a home countless times. Or you can move in with me, whatever you want."

"That's not the answer. I'm not abandoning Bella, we share a bond."

"We can set her up in one of the guest rooms

"Fuck you, Jasper!"

Bella would never. The nerve of him suggesting that, he probably thinks this is funny.

As I turned to leave I felt Jasper's hands around my waist and he pulled me to him.

"I'm sorry, please stay."

"I can't."

"Why?" All anger left his voice and the only thing I could hear was desperation in his tone as he gripped me tighter.

"I love you, I really do but this is eating me and I can't take it anymore. I can't take the secrets and lies, it's just to much deception and it's not fair to Bella or myself. I can't trust you not to keep important secrets from me." I whispered, my voice now hoarse from yelling.

"I'm not hiding anything from you, please believe me." He told me while wiping the tears from my face.

"I can't let myself believe you. I can't be with someone I can't trust not to lie to me."

"You can't leave me. I can't allow you to just walk out of my life."

"What are you going to do, send someone after me to kill me, that's how you handle most of your other problems."

"That's not what I meant and you know it. Princess, I would never hurt you."

"That's what you're doing. You're making this much harder than it already is. The longer I stay the harder it will be for me to leave."

"Then don't leave!"

"I have to, I'm sorry. Please let me go."

I slid the pear-cut diamond ring off my finger.

"Please don't do this to us."

"I'm not doing anything to us. You're the one who's keeping secrets, I can sense you're not being honest with me."

Jasper gripped me tighter and whispered harshly in my ear.

"If he did hurt your friend and confided in me, do you honestly think I can just tell the world. There's a reaction to every action, Alice. If he did hurt her and I knew about it and testified he would spill all of my secrets. He and I are hanging from the same rope and if it's cut I'll fall along with him. Do you want that to happen?"

"No. I wish you would tell me the secrets he has on you."

"We've already been over this princess, the less you know the better."

"I know. You still haven't let me go."

"I'll let you go but you have to promise me that you will give us some thought. I just don't want you to make such a serious decision in your present state. Please. I don't know what I would do if you left me."

I sighed. Every time I tried to leave he always found a way to pull me back in.

"Alright, I'll think about it but I can't promise you anything."

"That's all I'm asking."

Jasper gave me a kiss then let me go but not before putting the ring back on my finger.

"Do you always attempt to hold women hostage when they try to leave you?"

"No. Only the only whos done the impossible and made Jasper Coleman beg."

"I still want to go home."

"Fine. I'll drive you."


"Have you been listening me?"

"I'm sorry. I was thinking about the trial."

"That reminds me, please behave next time."

"I'm always well behaved."

"What do you call cussing out the Judge and Edward's lawyer?"

I smiled at the thought.

"I was just passively objecting to the nonsense and injustice that had unfolded in front of me."

"Passively? It's a good thing I already instructed Dave on what to do if you're held in contempt again. Getting a call thousands of miles away stating that the love of my life got herself into trouble was unsettling."

"It wasn't bad, I was fine."

"I may have to go away on business again so here's another credit card. No doubt you'll need it."

"Very funny." I told him then took the card.

"If Chanel had a 24/7 drive thru I'm sure you'd be like a vampire. Awake 24/7 without the need to sleep but instead of blood, clothing and accessories would sustain you."

"Why do you always have to talk about creepy stuff at night?"

"What, vampires? I wouldn't worry about them."

Jasper was grinning at me like he was in on some inside joke.

"How convenient you have to go away on business less than two weeks before trial starts again. I'm not going to argue with you. I'm tired of arguing. I'm leaving you a driver as well. Call him and tell him where to pick you up from. Though I think you should just let me buy you a car."

"And how am I going to explain it to Bella? She notices all of the clothes, shoes and jewelry I buy. Everyday she gets more and more curious about my mysterious boyfriend or should I say sugar daddy as she likes to say."

Jasper was grinning.

"I hope you've told her it's a lot more serious than that. I don't like picking you up down the street or around the corner like you're some kind of hooker. If you tell her about us she'll be hurt but she will get over it. I don't want to keep hiding you from the world. I can't stand not being able to walk into an event with you on my arm because Bella might end up seeing photos of us in a magazine or on some gossip site."

"I agree but she's not ready. It would be really selfish, cruel and inconsiderate to tell her right before she goes back to court. She hasn't even testified yet. She has enough on her plate already without me making it worse. Besides, as much as I like posing for photos I don't mind meeting you inside. I get to mingle a little without you watching me like a hawk. Don't forget that Bella and Rosalie would freak out if they find out you knew where we're staying this whole time. Edward still doesn't know about us right?"

"No. Don't worry I haven't compromised Bella's little hideout."

"Besides it's not like we're..." I stopped myself before I said something I shouldn't have.

Too late now though.

"We're not what?"

"Nevermind."

I could tell Jasper was pissed.

"What, not together? Alice we're engaged, don't forget that. I'm going to give you time to think and I hope you won't make a decision based on guilt and something we both can't change."

"Then why does it feel like you've already made up your mind for the both of us?" I asked him.

Jasper ignored me.

I sighed as I thought about the day we first met. Our relationship was doomed before it even started.

*FLASHBACK*

Damn these fucking cops dragging their feet when that son of a bitch could already be on the other side of the world!

I picked up the pace when it started to thunder, I hope it doesn't rain before I get there.

I should have worn my Jean Gaultier thigh high leather boots with the matching leather umbrella, then the rain wouldn't be a problem.

That Captain Holmes better have some answers. How could that fucker not be charged when they clearly saw Bella wasn't making it up. Those bastards aren't even returning my calls. I know Edward and his influence is behind this.

One more block to go. As soon as the words left my mouth there was a loud thunder.

Great! I'm going to be soaked by the time I get there.

"Excuse me Miss, would you like a lift?"

I looked over the fine specimen and his even more gorgeous blond locks. My eyes traveled to his Canali suit then to his new model rolls royce phantom. At least I'm not getting into a car with any old stranger, this guy is definitely someone important. When I think about it he does look very familiar.

"Yes please." I said.

His chauffeur immediately got out with an umbrella and opened the door for me.

"Thank you."

"Where's a beautiful creature like yourself heading in the rain?"

"I was on my way to the police station just a block from here."

"What a fortunate coincidence, I'm heading there myself."

"I'm Alice, by the way."

"It's a pleasure. Would you like a drink?"

"No thanks."

He smiled and continued to sip his drink.

We arrived in front of the police station and his chauffeur opened the door while holding an umbrella over my head. I looked back before I entered through the doors and noticed the handsome stranger was on his cell phone. He smiled at me when he caught me staring.

I smiled back then went inside, the place was a madhouse.

"Hello, do you need any help Miss?" An officer asked. I barely heard him over the noise.

"Yes, I'd like to see Captain Holmes please."

"He's in a meeting right now. Is it important, do you have an appointment?"

"It's very important. Tell him Ms. Blanc and Ms. Adams will be going to the media if he doesn't come out and see me."

In a meeting my ass.

"Please come this way."

I was led to a private room.

"Please have a seat." The Officer then went in search of his Boss.

My phone vibrated and I got a text from Bella.

I took it out quickly and read the message.

Any luck?

I'm making progress. I texted back.

I really appreciate you doing this for me, you didn't have to.

We share a bond Bella, I would do anything for you. I love you, talk to you when I get home.

I promise I won't stop fighting until they listen to us, Bella. You've done much more for me than anyone else ever has and you have to live with it just like I have to.

"I'm sorry but things are a little hectic here, this is the only available room we have. Our captain is in a meeting with the DA and ADA, you'll have to wait a little while."

"Do you know who I am!?"

"Yes sir."

"Then tell your boss to get his ass here now!"

The door wasn't closed so I overheard the conversation. A moment later I was face to face with the handsome stranger once again.

"We really have to stop meeting like this." He told me and I smiled.

"Thanks for the ride earlier."

"It was my pleasure. Where are you heading after you're done with here?"

"Nowhere, just home."

"I'd like to give you a lift if that's okay with you."

"That'll be great. Thanks."

"So what's a sweet girl like you doing in a place like this, are you in any trouble?"

"No. I'm here because my friend was...um...sexually assaulted and the police are dragging their feet."

"I'm so sorry to hear that. That's not good at all, what did they say?"

"After they got her statement and took her to the hospital they said they would look into it. We haven't heard from anyone since. Every time I call they tell me the Captain is busy and he never returns our calls. He said to only speak to him directly about the situation."

"Did you try going to his superiors, why do you think they're doing this?"

"The guy who raped her is some big shot. He's probably paying them to make this go away. I wish he has the audacity to dangle cash in front of her face thinking it will keep her quiet. I'd castrate him myself!"

"A small little thing like you looks harmless. Who is this big shot if you don't mind me asking?"

"We were told to keep quiet about it but I don't like the way they're treating us so I have no problem telling the world he's a rapist."

"Who?"

"Edward Masters, the billionaire big shot! Damn bastard!"

"You don't say?"

"Yes. Everyone thinks he's such a good man cause he's always donating to some charity, building orphanages and things of that nature but deep down inside he's a freaking animal."

"Wow. Who's your friend?"

"I can't give you her name, she's been through enough and doesn't want people to know."

"Poor girl, that's just terrible."

"I know that's why if he isn't charged we're going to the media."

"You don't say?"

"Yep. What brings you here?"

"Excuse me, I have to make a call."

I watched the handsome stranger's blond locks disappear from sight. I have to remember to get his name...and number.

A few minutes later the door opened and Captain Holmes walked in with large man dressed in a gray suit. He looked to be late fifties with salt and pepper hair and a stern look on his face. A blond woman stepped from behind the large man. she looked so chic in her cream-colored Akris pantsuit. It was tailored perfectly, showing just the right amount of cleavage and hugged every curve on her body. I saw the blazer alone in saks for $3990.00, only heaven knows how much she paid for the whole suit.

"One of my officers relayed your message and I apologize for keeping you waiting Ms. Blanc. Allow me to introduce you to district attorney Walter Sears and assistant district attorney, Rosalie Smith."

I shook both of their hands.

"Is the victim with you?" The grumpy-looking man asked, his face still pretty serious.

"Isabella isn't feeling well, she sent me in her place."

"Well, we're happy to inform you that we'll be moving forward with charges against Edward Masters, Ms. Blanc." The ADA informed me.

The stern-faced man looked at her warily and she ignored him.

"Excuse me but did I just overhear you say that you're going to charge my client?"

Emmett something walked into the room. I remember seeing him in a magazine next to that bastard. He's taller and more handsome in person but definitely not my type. How could he defend such a horrible person, doesn't he know his friend is a rapist?

"Pardon the interruption but one of your detectives said I would find you here, Captain."

"Mr. Armold, nice seeing you again. Back for me to hand you your second loss?"

The ADA had a triumphant smile on her face while she spoke to him.

The handsome blond stranger returned and the captain greeted him.

"I apologize for keeping you waiting Mr. Coleman. In here is a bit crowded, shall we discuss matters in my office?"

"Coleman as in Jasper Coleman?" I asked surprised, no wonder he looked so familiar.

"Yes. I'm sorry, sometimes I forget my manners. I'm Jasper Coleman, co-owner of C&M Oil Company."

You've gotta be kidding me!

*END FLASHBACK*

Now that I think about it... That's why Captain Holmes acted that way on the stand, lying his ass off.

"You bastard!" I yelled at Jasper.

"What horrendous thing are you going to accuse me of now?" He asked nonchalantly never taking his eyes off the road.

"You were the one who paid off Captain Holmes."

"Excuse me?"

"Stop trying to treat me like I'm stupid, Jasper! That day at the precinct..."

"Yes. Edward had some matters to attend to so I went and spoke with Captain Holmes."

"You mean bribed and threatened him?"

"I didn't have to threaten him, he was more than happy to take the money. Edward called and said he needed a favor. Emmett was busy with his ex-girlfriendand I happened to be in the area so I said yes. I don't feel bad about it at all, I met the most beautiful creature I had ever laid my eyes on."

"That doesn't make it okay."

"Alice, Edward and I are friends, we help each other. If I wasn't in the area Emmett would have done it, have you forgotten he came by the station too. If Emmett was busy Edward would have sent someone else from Emmett's law firm or one of his henchmen. There was no getting around bribing the captain."

"So you didn't mind staying friends with a rapist?"

"We've already been down that road and you're going to walk it alone."

I sighed knowing if I kept asking him questions along that line he would only ignore them.

"Do you love me?"

"More than my own life." He replied while still not taking his eyes off the road.

Why do I have such a hard time believing that?

"We're here."

I looked up and we were two streets away from the house. Jasper got out and opened my door for me but didn't move out of my way when I stepped out.

Before I could say anything his mouth was on mine.

The kiss was like fire and before I knew it my fingers had taken refuge in his hair and I was kissing him back with just as much passion.

His arm was around my lower back while he squeezed my ass with his other hand. I felt his desire for me while he was grinding his body into mine.

"I wish I could make love to you right here."

"I know. I have to go, Bella's waiting for me." I kissed him one more time then grabbed my purse.

Jasper held my hand in his as he walked me the remaining two blocks home.

"Are we still on for tomorrow or will you find something else to accuse me of?"

I laughed.

"You make me sound like a nag. I thought you were going to give me space?"

"How long do you expect me to stay away from you for. I just came back from a business trip and you want space?"

I sighed.

"Yes, we're still on for tomorrow. Are you going to me where we're going?"

"Nope."

I pouted.

"Don't worry, you'll enjoy yourself."

When we got to my street I told him "this is as far as we go Mister".

"For once I'd like to walk you to the house."

"You know you can't. Bella might be outside taking a walk around the yard."

While I was kissing Jasper goodbye a familiar car drove past us.

"Shit, it's Rosalie! Do you think she saw us?"

"I doubt it, it's dark and she wasn't looking in this direction."

"But what if she did?!"

"Don't worry about it, Princess. Even if she did I would fix it with the push of a button."

"How?" I eyed him suspiciously. Hopefully he's not talking about killing her.

"You let me worry about that. Go home and rest."

I headed for the house and knew Jasper was watching me from the shadows. He always waited until I got inside safe. What we're doing feels so sinful yet so right at the same time.

When I got to the gate our new security guard Dave let me. I mentioned to Jasper funny how one of the security guards didn't show up one day and they had to replace him. I knew the new guy was on Jasper's payroll.

I prayed Rosalie didn't see me as I looked at her car parked in the driveway.

What's she doing here so late anyway? When I got inside the house I heard yelling.

I hid in the hallway and listened. What the hell is going on between them!?


So Alice is engaged to Jasper...and I thought Rosalie was a piece of work.

*Sighs* Alice you stylish hypocrite, why are you pestering Jasper about his secrets when you have quite a few even more darker ones of your own? Tsk tsk tsk.

As stated in chapter one by Rosalie in court, the alleged rape happened January 5th. The trial was set for September 1st. Far, I know. Alice and Jasper met in early January and she's been keeping it a secret ever since. Thank goodness this is just a little secret.

Bella seems to be surrounded by...secret-keepers.

All future flashbacks will be about Edward and Bella. Time for them to steal all of the shine.

TIP: When Alice stated she and Bella shares a bond she didn't really mean a bond. They kind of do share a bond but she meant more of a...?

Hint: "You've done much more for me than anyone else ever has and you have to live with it just like I have to."

Btw, how the heck did Rosalie get out of Emmett's place? Guess we'll find out next chapter... I hope you all have a wonderful day! :)

Damn, I almost forgot... SNEAK PEEK!


"Why aren't you drinking your wine, Mr. Masters?"

"I'd much prefer to taste it from you."

I watched as Isabella choked on her wine.

"Excuse me?"

"Come here."

Isabella unsurely rose out of her seat and came to me. I held out my hand and she took it with her tiny, shaky one. I sat her on my lap and wrapped an arm around her waist as I leaned in closer to her.

"Are you nervous, Isabella?" I asked her while breathing in her delicious scent.