I apologize and I'm deeply and truly sorry for the long wait. I was touched by those who reached out to me and how much you guys love my story. I appreciate each and every one of you. I had no intentions of giving up on my story. Life got in the way but I know that's not really an excuse. I won't begin to tell you guys about my life because this A/N would get longer than this chapter lol. Updates should be more frequent from now on. Lucy you're the best!

I do read each and every review, I didn't answer any questions in this A/N because this chapter answers all of the questions you guys asked.

I must warn you guys that this chapter is flashback-heavy. Each flashback serves a purpose so please don't throw rocks at me.

How have you guys been?


During the present...

Rosalie POV

This is sooooo fucked up. I really hope Bella decides to show up for Court, I really fucked up big time! I need some vodka to calm my nerves. I got out my oversize 24oz wine glass and filled it halfway up with vodka then filled it the rest of the way up with wine. This should calm my nerves and put me in a better mood.


During the present at the Courthouse.

Bella POV

"I'm so happy you came, Bella. Court will be in session in ten minutes. Are you okay?"

"I'm okay, I'm just a little nauseated. I need to use the restroom."

I wasn't going to show up but I knew I had to. I pondered if Rosalie can really be trusted. There's only so much of Rosalie I can take right now. I took off to the restroom with Dave behind me. I just want all of this to be over, no security, no having to testify-I just want my normal life back. I feel like a witness to a mob orchestrated hit.

Everything is going to be fine, just relax Bella. I can do this. I can do this. You've come too far to turn back now, you HAVE to do this I told myself. The faster I do it the faster it will be over.

I turned to leave the restroom and thought my eyes were playing tricks on me, I must be hallucinating.

"What are you doing in here!?" I was so wrapped in my thoughts I didn't even hear him come in.

He didn't say anything, he just stepped toward me menacingly. I felt my chest tighten, I began stepping back hoping he wouldn't get too close. How did Edward even get in here?

"Why are you doing this?" He asked me. His tone was emotionless and cold.

I felt my back hit the wall, there's nowhere for me to run.

"You're not suppose to have any contact with me!"

"Why are you doing this?" He repeated, his voice still void of all emotion.

"You have the nerve to ask me that when you hurt me the way you did!?"

"I'm not secretly recording you so you can drop the act."

"You're the one with the act!"

As my chest got tighter and tighter I could barely breathe.

"I've already ran out of patience, if you get on that stand and testify to the lies you've already told, you'll regret it."

"Nothing you can do to me is worse than what you've already done."

"What are you getting out of this, what could be worth more than what I would've given you for you to do this?"

"Move out of my way."

I tried to brush past him but he blocked me in. Edward pinned me against the wall then put his lips against my ear and whispered. My chest got tight and my breath got stuck in my throat.

"Get the hell away from her!"

Edward looked at Rosalie then smirked and let me go.

"Are you alright Bella?"

"Where the hell is Dave, Does that slacker think he can leave you alone just because we're in the courthouse!?"

Edward was walking out of the restroom but Rosalie dashed in front of him before he could exit.

"Have you no shame?" She asked him.

He shot her a threatening glare then brushed her aside and left.

"Are you sure you're alright, you're trembling!"

"I'm okay, a little shaken but okay."

"Did he hurt you?"

"No."

"What was he saying to you?"

"It doesn't matter."

"But-"

"I don't wanna talk about it!"

"It's okay, if he threatened you-you can tell me."

"I just wanna get this over with."


Rosalie POV

The Chambers of Judge Bradley...

"Ms. Smith what are you doing in my chambers minutes before trial, surely you know ex parte comm-"

"Masters violated the criminal protective order."

"There's such a thing called procedure I-"

"So I should take the time file a motion when Masters was so brazen to follow Ms. Adams into the women's restroom right here in the courthouse?!"

Judge Bradley gave a deep sigh.

"I knew this would be difficult. Are you sure he went into the Ladies restroom?"

"Of course I'm sure, I met him in there and saw him with my own two eyes."

"Can anyone besides you and Ms. Adams verify this?"

"No."

"What are you getti-"

"Where was her security detail?"

"Not there but I will be reporting him."

"Follow procedure and after trial Mr. Masters won't be allowed to leave, I'll have Cheryl inform the Officers. Have Ms. Adams report the incident to Officers and do let her tell it Herself please. The footage from the security cameras facing the restrooms will be reviewed by trusted individuals and if anything is found Masters' bail will be revoked."

All of these steps just because he doesn't want to have Masters arrested without concrete evidence, if it were someone else, Bella's word alone would be enough.

"Alright." I agreed then turned to leave.

"Ms. Smith I understand you are young and...'high spirited" so I'm going to forget this little chat ever happened and that you even came in here."

"Thank you, Sir."


While in the courtroom...

Bella POV

I watched Rosalie in all her glory, this is what she has been waiting for, the biggest highlight of her career. I can't wait for all of this to be over.

The Prosecution calls Isabella Adams to the stand.

I breathed in long deep gasps and walked up to the stand. I could feel eyes on me, the whole courtroom was staring at me but I could feel their stares.

Rosalie POV

I looked around the courtroom and I couldn't help but feel that it was my stage and everyone else, the audience. My eyes landed on Armold and my blood boiled. That son of a bitch has the nerve to face me, I bet he feels like he doesn't have a care in the world sitting there smug in his kiton k50 suit. Who would've thought he would turn out to be an abuser. I should've known, look who he keeps company with, a rapist. Birds of a feather flock together. After this trial is over-no matter the outcome, Armold is going to get a rude awakening.

Nothing would bring me more pleasure than to watch Masters stand for the reading of the verdict and to watch the expression on his face when he hears the word guilty. He better enjoy his riches now because when I defeat him and Armold, he'll go from that Alexander Amosu Vanquish II to an orange jumpsuit. I'm going to make it up to Bella and and tick everyone's who crossed us off of my list.

I don't know much about that blond guy Coleman but if he's friends and business partners with Armold and Masters, he can't be good guy. Who knows what he's capable of, Alice better be careful.

As Bella approached the stand, I suddenly remember what Armold told me.

*FLASHBACK*

"He hasn't said anything really, he just wants her. The fact that she's still alive when the resumption of the trial is in two days speaks volumes. I thought he would've just killed her but then I realized months ago that he really does love her. Still, with that said-he's losing patience. Edward has no intentions of letting the trial complete, he's going to sabotage the trial before the Jury can deliberate."

"Does he not know that this trial is the highlight of my career, how can he stop it?"

"Just know this, Edward will get the girl and by that time it will be too late for her."

"But you said he still cares for her, which I still don't understand."

"She's accusing him of raping her and she's moving forward with testifying, how long do you think his affection and leniency for her will last, it's been almost a year since all of this started. No amount of detectives or bodyguards will stop him from getting to her. She should take the money and stop all of this while she still can."

"How much has Edward increased it to this time anyway?"

"$550 million."

"$550 million?!"

"Correct."

"Just to not go through with the trial?"

"If she recant he'll give her $1.2 billion."

"You expect me to believe this, why is he offering that kind of money!?"

"You don't understand, he's offering so much because he hopes she will take it and go quietly. He's trying to stop himself from having to hurt her."

"That's a hell lot of money, I'm clearly in the wrong profession."

"To be honest, he wants her to tell him why she did all of this, face to face. Then, he'll decide if he wants to forget about all of this or reconcile with her so they can work on her issues. But the girl seems adamant about refusing all cash offers and proceeding with testifying. He's refusing to be found guilty, especially of a crime like that. Not to mention a certain seductive ADA not only charged him with rape but rape in the first degree."

"Oh yes, yes she did." I smiled.

"I want you to know that I won't ever allow Edward to come after you. He knows you're gunning for him but of course I can tell him to pardon you. But the girl... I can't help nor protect her. She's not going to end up dead, it won't look good. She'll probably end up missing instead. She can still save herself of course but once she takes the stand and testifies against him, it will be all over for her. The trial will not continue and she will disappear, she does NOT want to end up in Edward's hands."

*END FLASHBACK*

Bella POV

"Please state your name for the record."

"Isabella Adams."

"Do you solemnly swear that you will tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you?"

"I do."

"Do you remember what happened the night of the fifth of January of this year?"

I gulped.

"Yes."

Rosalie gave me a 'go on' look.

"I was raped and held against my will."

"By Whom?"

"My ex boyfriend, Edward Masters."

"This man right here?" Rosalie said as she gestured to Edward.

"Objection-allegedly raped and held against your will." Mr. Armold stated and Judge Bradley sighed.

"Sustained."

"Ms. Adams walk us through that traumatizing night, I know it's hard but try your best."

"Esmé was staring at me the entire time, she hadn't looked away once. Not even to take a glance at her son. This is more than uncomfortable, it's downright maddening.

*FLASHBACK*

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

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

I watched Isabella choke 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 in her tiny, shaky one. I sat her on my lap and wrapped an arm around her as I leaned in closer to her.

"Are you nervous Isabella?" I asked her while breathing in her delicious sent. So fucking intoxicating.

"Y-yes."

"Does it have anything to do with the question I asked you before we got on board?"

"Mmhmm."

"Have you come to a decision?"

"No."

I ran my hand through her long, brown strands of silk then tossed them over her shoulder and unzipped her dress.

"I'll help you make it."

I felt Edward's lips trailing kisses down my spine and a ticklish feeling with every kiss. He scooped me up in his arms and stood up, I let out a squeak being caught by surprise.

"We both have early mornings we ne-"

Edward was kissing me intensely while he carried me, he took me to one of the bedrooms, it was filled with fruit and chocolates and dimmed lights with soft music playing in the background. If only I could live in a private jet instead of my apartment, I would have a lot more space to put things.

Edward placed me on the bed while standing in front of me, his erection in my face. All of the liquids from earlier had taken affect and my bladder felt full. I looked around the room for a door knowing it had to have a bathroom cause the owner of the jet is Edward billionaire Masters. I spotted it and quickly dashed to it to empty my bladder. I thought I would only see these things on the tv show The Fabulous Life Of...

Edward was behind me pulling on my dress and I swatted him away.

"You can't come in with me."

I shut the door in his face and locked it. I sat on the toilet. Sweet relief, empty bladders feel so much more better. After I was done I washed my hands and walked out to find Edward waiting by the door. Edward was all over me again and I gave him a kiss and said, Bedtime."

Edward gave me a look.

"Yes, even wealthy oil tycoons have a bedtime."

Edward chuckled.

"Edward Masters has no bedtime. Let's continue what we started earlier." He said.

"I'm tired. No satiating foreplay, erosive orgasms or satin. I just wanna lie down." I told him.

I fell back onto the bed not having the energy to find a nightgown.

Edward lied down next to me.

"Do you ever wish you were just a regular person sometimes?" I asked him.

"I'm not?"

"I mean not wealthy and well known, just a regular guy working a 9-5 with no mansions, unlimited amount of funds and jets. Just a regular car and an ordinary guy."

"No." He answered

I laughed.

"Not even a little every once in a while?"

"I enjoy being who I am, the money just makes things easier. Even if I weren't wealthy I would be happy with who I am."

"That's nice."

"You still have reservations about being with me because of who I am and what I have."

"No." I told him.

"It wasn't a question."

"Just a little, I'm afraid of money. I guess I've just been raised to think that being filthy rich isn't a good thing cause it can lead to sinful things and a dark heart." I admitted.

"Money doesn't change people, it only unmasks who they really are."

"And it's not just about what you have, I'm just afraid. I've never experienced anything like this before and how I feel about you scares me."

"You don't have to concern yourself with thinking, worrying and second guessing, just let go and let this happen. Do you remember what I told you at the charity ball?" He asked.

I sighed.

"I know I know. I've been letting things run their course, I won't change my mind." I tried to reassure him.

I thought while our fingers played and entwined with each other's. We were both now on our sides facing each other. Looking into Edward's green eyes gave me tingly feelings. Weren't they black yesterday?

"Do you wear contacts?"

Edward smirked at me. The way he looked at me made me blush.

"Having you with me gives me immense happiness." He told me.

We shared a kiss.

"I don't want this to end but I just need some time." I said then reached for a bowl of fruit, sat up and started to munch.

Edward was rubbing on my thigh. He began kissing my thighs while heading north. I couldn't help but wiggle and giggle, my upper thighs are a sensitive spot, isn't that strange. The more he did it, the wetter I got. He came further and further up until he reached my breasts, he nuzzled his face between them and I chuckled.

"Time for bed, do you want a bedtime story?" I asked.

"Do I want a bedtime story?" He asked in disbelief and I laughed.

"Would YOU like a bedtime story?" He retorted.

"What's that suppose to mean?" I asked feeling like he was poking fun at me.

"Exactly what I asked."

"No. I don't want to hear about how you obtain companies from people who don't wanna sell."

Edward tried to slide off my bra strap and I spanked him on his fingers.

He went for my neck next, my other weak spot. As soon as his mouth made contact my eyes rolled to the back of my head while I was in a wonderland of bliss. How does he make me feel such a way with just his mouth?

"You don't play fair." I told him.

"I wouldn't be where I am if I did."

He slid his hand under me and grabbed my behind, His hand was everywhere. He nipped at my nipples through the bra and I could feel myself responding to him but sleepiness overpowered my want for an orgasm.

Is Edward trying to turn me into a sex beast like him? I laughed out loud at the thought. He pulled my bra down and I felt his mouth on my breasts. I cried out when he suckled and swirled his tongue around my nipple.

"This is so unfair." I told him, he didn't respond.

He unhooked my bra and tossed it next to me. "If I don't go to sleep now I'm going to get a headache." I told him.

"Would you like a painkiller?" He asked me while going back down south.

"No. I would like to sleep." I tried pushing his head away.

"Relax, I'm not going to hurt you."

"That's not the point. I'm tired. Eat some fruit and go to bed." I tried to convince him.

"That's what I'm trying to do." He retorted.

I laughed.

"Not that fruit, its forbidden."

"Forbidden fruits are the sweetest, let me taste it."

I got the feeling he meant more than just oral sex. I put the bowl on the nightstand and lied down on my side facing away from him.

"Go to bed or go over paperwork or whatever it is you do at night. I know you don't sleep."

Edward chuckled. "I'll sleep when I'm dead."

I felt his hand on my thigh and pushed it away.

"You won't let me have sex with you before marriage and when I asked you to marry me you declined. What's going on with you?" He sounded serious.

"Nothing. It's just too soon, you said you would be patient with me."

"I am, I just want some sort of commitment. Marry me, we won't have sex until you're ready... Or let me make love to you and you don't have to marry me."

"What?! You don't trust me? What kind of messed up ultimatum is that!?"

"I trust you but at anytime you could change your mind and want out."

"And that would be my right. I'm not saying I'm going to though."

"I want you, all of you." Edward whispered in my ear.

Edward looked at me in a way that made me confused.

"You want to go all the way, as in sex?" I asked.

"I want you, all of you." He told me.

"What do you mean by that?" I asked him.

"Do you want to be with me or not?"

"Of course I wanna be with you, Edward." Where is all of this possessiveness coming from?

"Then why are you hesitant? Since you're so sure that you're staying with me and we'll eventually get married, losing your virginity to me shouldn't matter."

"Don't twist things to suit your wants and needs."

"It's the truth. Don't you trust me?" He asked.

"I trust you." I told him.

"Don't I supply your every want and need?"

"Yes."

"Since you trust me let me-."

"No." I told him.

"Why?" He asked me.

You could change your mind at any moment and decide you don't want me anymore afterward." I threw his words back at him.

"Then lets get married this week to satisfy your doubts and fears. I've already told you I want you until the end of time and you said you won't back out so there's no issue. Or do you want to string me along?"

"Are you serious, if anyone has the upper hand in this relationship it's you Edward. You can dump me for a model whenever you feel like, how do I know I'm not just some conquest?"

"And here I am laying the world at your feet and have already proposed marriage to you."

"You have the means to get married repeatedly and if it doesn't work out you can be on to the next best thing, all you need is a prenup. You can pay for a hundred weddings and do as you wish. You can treat marriage and everything else like a toy, everything is expendable to you an-"

"You mean like you can treat me like a toy, how do I know a couple weeks from now you won't decide you don't want to do this anymore?"

"Where is this coming from? Don't paint me in that kind of light." I told him.

"I just want to know why you won't marry me, what do you have to lose?"

"What do you have to gain?" I retorted.

"You, forever."

"It's not that I don't want to, I just need more time."

"You're the first woman I asked to marry me, I've had countless women, it's no secret."

"What's that suppose to mean, I'm not supposed to turn you down?"

He smirked.

"Well aren't we full of ourselves. So I'm not suppose to turn you down because you're Edward Masters and I have no money so I have nothing to lose? I get that I should feel honored and believe me when I say I'm flattered but we've been moving at such a fast pace I feel we should sl-"

"Why slow down now?"

"I'm too tired to do this. I'm going to sleep."

"I'm not done with this conversation." He stated.

"I am. Why do you suddenly want commitment, do you feel I'm not fully invested in this relationship?" I asked him.

"I do feel that way, yes."

I couldn't believe my ears. I turned around and stared at him in utter shock.

"I don't doubt your feelings for me Isabella, I just feel at some point my lifestyle could become too much for you and you might back out."

"So you're looking for a way to tie me down to you, you do know that's creepily possessive right? Is that why you were trying to have sex with me, cause you know I would say yes to marrying you if we do or is it just because if I marry you it would be hard to quit the relationship?"

"If you don't plan on backing out then what's the problem?"

He does have a point. I thought for a second. I don't think Edward's insecure but I'm pretty sure he's trying to pull one over on me. Why is he suddenly so possessive? Maybe his ego has taken a hit by the fact that I won't have sex with him and I made it worse by turning down his offer of marriage.

"Do you trust me?" I asked him.

"Of course."

"Good, I want to be with you. I'm not going anywhere. So no need to discuss this further."

"I'm laying the world at your feet, whatever you want is yours-all I'm asking for is you to meet me halfway."

"I don't need the world and all material things that comes with it. I just want you...even though you can be overbearing at times..." Maybe it's the fact that I'm the first to be unmoved by the money and material things.

"Then prove it- prove you want me."

I sighed. Maybe this time I'm going to have away from Edward will do me good. We're moving too fast. I don't like this side of him, we should wait longer and really get to see the unseen sides of each other. "I'm not going to rush into a marriage with you and I'm not ready for full on sex. Take my word as my commitment, if you trust me like you claim you do then it shouldn't be an issue. I'm tired of this conversation and want to sleep."

Edward pulled me close to him so he was spooning me. I could feel his lips on my neck. He rolled me on my back and got on top of me and began kissing me.

"I do trust you Isabella. It's just at your age your mind can and will change quite often. I like to have reassurance."

"You're just going to have to trust me. I kissed him back to satisfy him and told him "I'm tired."

"You slept earlier."

"The wine has me sleepy."

"I've gotten used to watching you cum any time I felt like. You're leaving me in a matter of hours, give me taste you before you leave."

He tried to resume kissing me but I turned my head. He held my chin so I couldn't move my head and he kissed me roughly.

"Let me sleep."

"Relax, you don't have to do anything."

He parted my legs with his knee and I tried pushing him off. Edward pulled off my panties before I could stop him and I immediately closed my legs. He parted my knees again and I couldn't keep them closed no matter how hard I tried. He began to perform oral sex on me, I pushed at his head trying to get him to stop. "I'm too tired for orgasms, Edward. Stop."

He inserted a finger into me and tried making me cum. I tried to pull his hand away.

"I don't want this."

"Relax."

"No. Stop."

"Trust me."

"I want you to stop.

Edward ignored me.

"Please, let me go. You're scaring me."

My pleas fell on deaf ears.

Edward started removing his clothes and I took it as my chance to get from under him when he was undoing his shirt. I tried moving further up and away from him on the bed but he only came closer. I rolled off of the bed and he smirked at me as he removed the rest of his clothes. I made a run for the bathroom hoping to lock myself inside but he grabbed me by my arm and pushed me back on the bed but this time pinning my wrists at both sides of my head.

He assaulted my neck and breasts with his mouth and I struggled in his grasp.

"Please please please let me go."

"Relax and you'll enjoy it more."

I started screaming. It seemed as if no one heard me and Edward didn't care.

I was on the verge of a panic attack and tried my best to remain calm. Edward let go of my wrists and started groping me, I tried closing my legs but he was between them so I couldn't. I did my best to scratch him with my nails and push him off but got no reaction, he didn't wince or budge no matter how deep I dug my nails into his skin nor how hard I pushed at him.

I felt his penis brushing against me and my breath caught in my throat. Why is he doing this to me?

I cried out in pain as Edward forced himself into me, I could feel my insides being forced to accommodate his member . I couldn't stop the tears from welling up and falling. I couldn't stop my body from trembling and shaking.

"Relax." He told me while tracing unwanted kisses over me. I couldn't believe what was happening...

"Stop, you're hurting me." I pleaded between sobs.

It went on for what seemed like forever.

*END FLASHBACK*

So after imploring Mr. Masters to stop many times he didn't?

"No."

"Were you clear and adamant that you didn't want to have intercourse with him?"

"I just told you what happened."

"Answer the question please, Ms. Adams."

"Yes."

"No further questions."

I let out a sigh of relief from Rosalie's many questions.

"Mr. Armold you now have the floor." Judge Bradley told him.

Mr. Armold rose up and stalked toward me.

"At anytime did you think my client thought you were enjoying it?"

"No"

"Could he have maybe thought you were just playing hard to get?"

"No, I told him he was hurting me."

"When you said, 'He nipped at my nipples through the bra and I could feel myself responding to him but sleepiness overpowered my want for an orgasm.' When you said responding to him it's safe to assume you meant in an aroused, pleasured sense as in you liked it?"

"Y-yes."

"Why?"

What kind of question is that?! "It felt good."

"So maybe you led Mr. Masters to believe you liked what he was doing to you and you were just playing hard to get."

"I wasn-"

"You say you weren't but that's not what you led him to believe. If it happened like you claim it did then its safe to assume you wanted it once he got you aroused enough."

"Objection! Speculation."

"Withdrawn." Mr. Armold said before the Judge could answer.

"You also stated, 'He pulled down my bra and I felt his mouth on my breasts. I cried out when he suckled and swirled his tongue around my nipple.'"

"When you said, 'cried out,' you meant pleasurable moans?

"Yes."

*FLASHBACK*

"And like I've told you earlier, Armold will ask you obscene questions. he wants to make you feel dirty and guilty and like I've also told you, I will overuse the word objection."

"Okay."

"Is everything I'm saying sticking?"

"Yes."

"And you do know what his entire defense revolves around right?"

"Yes. Why rape me when Edward Masters can have any woman he wants."

*END FLASHBACK*

"Continuing on with what you stated..."

Mr. Armold repeated what I said word for word.

"You told Edward Masters 'You aren't playing fair.' What did you mean by that?"

I struggled to find words. "Um...That he was using his best skills to arouse me."

"You went on to say that, 'He unhooked my bra and tossed it next to me. No. I would like to sleep. I tried pushing his head away.'"

"To which my client replied, 'Relax, I'm not going to hurt yo-'"

"Objection, are we going to proofread Ms. Adams' entire statement word for word for the remainder of the trial?"

"Your honor, I'm simply pointing out the contradictions in Ms. Adams' statement. Her statement is a contradiction of itself and a contradiction to the reason why we're here. Also it pertains to the happenings of that night in question and I'm just simply lining up the details for the jury."

"I'll allow it."

I watched Rosalie sit back down clearly annoyed.

"Ms. Adams, you responded, 'That's not the point. I'm tired. Eat some fruit and go to bed.'"

"Mr. Masters replied, 'That's what I'm trying to do.'"

"When Mr. Masters said that, you laughed. Now Ms. Adams, call me crazy but if I or any logically thinking person were in a situation where they felt threatened that someone would try to force them self on them they wouldn't be laughing. They would be serious and adamantly clear that they do NOT wish to partake in sexual intercourse to make sure there's no room left for doubt. They would not be laughing in the presence of 'danger' with the person who's trying to force his/herself on them. I'm going to call it like it is, you didn't feel threatened in the least."

"He was my boyfriend and I trusted him, I didn't think he would rape me. I thought he was just being persistent and would eventually give up."

"Ms. Adams we both know you and my client had consensual sex that night."

"No we didn't."

"Lets continue on with what you just told the court, 'not that fruit, its forbidden.', That sounds sexual like dirty talk. You claim you weren't interested in having intercourse but you answered him with a sexual innuendo."

"Objection, does Mr. Armold have a question?" Rosalie asked.

"Let me rephrase. Why did you answer him in such a way that might arouse him or lead him to believe that you were playing along?"

"I-I-"

"To which of course any man would reply like my client did, 'Forbidden fruits are the sweetest. Let me taste it.' Then you said, 'I got the feeling he meant more than just oral sex. I put the bowl on the nightstand and lied down on my side away from him.' At this point what were you wearing, Ms. Adams?"

"Underwear."

"Be more specific."

"Panties."

"What kind of panties?"

"OBJECTION!"

"Sustained. Refrain from using my courtroom as your personal circus for entertainment, Armold."

"I was actually going somewhere with my previous question your honor."

"Well now you can go somewhere else, move it along."

"Why didn't you put your bra back on, why didn't you put on your dress or get a nightgown? Why did you continue to lie next to Mr. Masters in only panties?"

"I was too tired and the alcohol had made me dizzy."

"You stated at that point you didn't think you were in danger because my client was your boyfriend at the time. But even though you didn't feel that you were in danger, why lie down next to my client almost naked knowing you didn't want to have sex but he did? Oh yes yes, you said you trusted him. So my client had been nothing but a loving and doting boyfriend to you whom you trusted completely, whom never gave you an inkling that he would hurt you nor a reason not to trust him. Ms. Adams why should we trust you and what you're claiming?"

"Because I'm telling the truth."

"So after your trustful boyfriend had asked you for intercourse, whom I may add after giving you luxuries you've never been privileged to, you say no -which is your right but you continued to lie down next to him in only panties, are you a sadist Ms. Adams?"

"No."

"So why tease him? Your own testimony makes you out to be a nightmare of a girlfriend whom my client lovingly put up with because he loved you dearly."

"I assumed your client had enough self control and restraint not to put his hands on me after I told him no and that I was going to sleep."

Mr. Armold took out the photos of my neck and upper breasts Rosalie had displayed during a previous date in court.

"These bruises as Prosecutor Smith and Dr. Sears calls them, these can be considered bruises but there's another term for them-hickeys. Your bestfriend Alice Blanc had testified on behalf of the prosecution that she noticed a number of bruises and hickeys on your neck. You Ms. Adams told the court that Mr. Masters kissed, nipped and suckled on your neck and breasts to which you responded to by becoming aroused?"

"Yes."

Mr. Armold turned to the jury and said: "Call me crazy but these hickeys are from the consensual foreplay that took place and the 'bruises' are merely darker, bigger hickeys due to nipping and tension on the skin from extended foreplay. Of course delicate skin would easily bruise. Yet Ms. Adams and Ms. Smith would have you believe these are from my client allegedly choking Ms. Adams during some alleged violent, sexual encounter-which in Ms. Adam's own statement she never mentioned being choked."

"Ms. Adams during the alleged rape that happened right after Mr. Masters had just finished pleasuring you with foreplay did you orgasm?"

"Objection! What does it matter-even if she did have an orgasm it didn't make it consensual!"

"I'm constructing a pattern your honor." Mr. Armold argued.

"I'll allow it. Witness may answer the question." Judge Bradley said.

"No, I didn't."

"Did you like or enjoyed any specific part of it?"

"Your honor!"

"Is this a rape trial or not, the prosecutor is objecting to my every question."

"This is a bullying tactic, he's trying to embarrass my victim."

"Alleged victim and I'm just trying to establish a pattern your honor."

"What does-"

"I'll allow it, tread carefully Mr. Armold. Answer the question Ms. Adams."

I really hate this man.

"Do you need me to repeat the question-did you enjoy any part of the alleged non-consensual sex. You've already told the court you enjoyed the foreplay."

"Your honor!" Rosalie shouted

"Of course not, it hurt a lot." I answered.

"So you would have if it didn't hurt which means you wanted the sex, this is just a case of buyer's remorse."

"Your honor!"

"Withdrawn."

"Did you or did you not tell Mr. Masters you wanted to take the next step?"

"No."

"You told him that you were ready."

"No."

You initiated sex with him!

"No!"

*FLASHBACK*

"Tell the truth, be honest and if you feel yourself becoming frustrated and overwhelmed, don't let Armold's hounding get to you. Even if he's yelling and throwing fifty different questions at you at once, just pause and take deep breaths and try to stay calm."

*END FLASHBACK*

"Lets analyze more of your testimony, 'I started screaming. It seemed as if no one heard me and Edward didn't care.', So on a private jet equipped with a crew of at least three, no one heard you screaming and came to your rescue?"

"No."

"This courtroom is suppose to believe that?"

"They didn't care, they ignored me."

"Or you didn't scream because there was no rape."

"I did!"

"So why would three descent human beings allegedly ignore your alleged cries for help?"

"Edward signs their pay cheques. His employees are probably used to turning a blind eye while he does whatever he wants."

"So my client is an entitled s.o.b., his staff are immoral people and you're the only truthful and righteous person?"

"I-I-didn't say that."

"So what were you trying to say? You said Edward signs their paycheques so you're implying they would turn a blind eye and deaf ear to a woman being raped for a pay cheque- for money?"

"No."

"Then what were you implying, Ms. Adams?"

Why is it so hard for me to keep calm?

"After the alleged rape did you call for help, did you seek out help? If I were thousands of feet in the air and had just been raped I would've skyped if it was my only option. Did you ask any of the crew members for help?"

"No. I was a-"

"What happened the morning of the alleged rape?"

"Edward got upset because I didn't want to be bothered with him so he threw me backward onto the bed and threatened me then he let me go. Then we landed and a blond man cam-"

"What do you mean by 'let you go', you make it sound as if he was holding you hostage."

"He was."

I looked over at Rosalie and she was smirking, did something good just happen?

"How?"

"After he was done, he made me lie down next to him all night and wouldn't let me move or sleep in a separate room. I asked him to land at the nearest airport and he refused to let me off his jet."

"You never told the crew members nor the pilot anything about a rape which means you probably wasn't in a hurry to land."

"I di-"

"So after the jet had landed you were free to go and you did leave, correct?"

"Not b-"

"A simple yes or no will suffice."

"Yes. So you weren't held against your will while in Italy nor on Edward Masters jet?"

"I-"

"Yes or no?"

"He said I couldn't move and had to stay in be-"

"Yes or no Ms. Adams?!"

"Yes I was. He made me sleep next to him and I didn't want to! Detaining me against my will is illegal and a form of kidnapping."

"You were on a plane, there was nowhere for you to go and you're alleging he made you sleep next to him. We have no proof of that. After the jet landed you left of your own free will, the morning after you alleged a rape took place. If my client had raped you, why even let you go, why not fly off to Tehran with you?"

"I don't know."

"So he raped you and just let you go with his DNA inside of you?"

"He said-"

"I'm not interested in hearsay, Ms. Adams."

"How did you get home, providing you went straight home..."

"He had a car waiting to take me home."

"The more you talk the less of a monster my client sounds, unlike the way you're making him out to be."

"He is a monster."

"Exhibit A."

I watched Mr. Almond insert a disc into a dvd player connected to a flat screen.

"Here's surveillance video from a security camera from a convenience store facing Ms. Adams' former apartment. This is the morning after she alleged my client, Edward Masters raped her. Here we can see Ms. Adams arriving in a black porsche panamera turbo executive in front of her apartment. She hurriedly gets out of the vehicle before the chauffeur could open the door for her, seems she's in a rush like she's late for an appointment. The chauffeur rests her suitcases at her front door. She stands there until he leaves and after the chauffeur leaves, Ms. Adams is seen walking to the end of the street. Another camera from a different angle records Ms. Adams boarding a bus while at the end of the very same street. We have no more footage of her after that. Ms. Adams that was you in the video, correct?"

"Yes."

"Where did you go?"

"A pier, Alani's pier to be exact."

"Why did you go to the pier instead of home or to the police station?"

"I was contemplating suicide at that time."

I heard gasps from the Jury.

"Ahh yes, you had been raped like you keep saying and you were, let me guess...distraught?"

This feels so awful and humiliating.

"I was not well mentally after that night."

"Law enforcement has provided me with a record of Ms. Adams location and movements the morning after the alleged rape, after she had already departed from Mr. Masters."

I watched Mr. Armold hold it up for the entire court to see then hand it to the jury.

"Ms. Adams was in fact in the vicinity that she says she was at, she was indeed in the area of Alani's pier the morning after she claimed she was raped. Two brief calls from my client to Ms. Adams to confirm dinner plans for that night bounced off of a nearby cell tower. No surprise that the calls were brief, Ms. Adams was more than likely in a very important business meeting at that time. Why did you answer two phone calls from the man who allegedly raped you the night before?"

"I only answered to yell at him not to call me ever again because I was disgusted with him after what he did to me."

"Of course of course. Do you know whats located right across from Alani's pier Ms. Adams?"

"I don't recall, my mind was in tatters that morning."

"I'll refresh your memory, Munroe and Associates Law Office is located across from the pier you claim you were at."

Mr. Armold took out photos of the law office, the adjacent surroundings and the pier. He also brought out a large tablet already opened to the google maps app that showed the building across the street facing the pier.

"Do you recognize this building?"

"Yes, I remember seeing it while I was at the pier, I paid no mind to it at the time."

Mr. Armold chuckled.

"Ms. Adams I will be clear and frank, you are a liar and a stranger to the truth!"

"Excuse me?"

"I'm the one asking the questions. You're honestly going to sit on this stand and expect myself, the Jury and the other five people in this courtroom to believe that right after allegedly being raped by your doting boyfriend whom you said you trusted, you did not go inside your apartment, you bypassed the police station and the hospital that were apart of the route of the bus you took and went to a pier, a pier that's situated right in front of a prestigious law firm?!"

"Yes!"

"Do not insult my intelligence! Don't sit here and insult the Jurors, have some respect."

"I'm n-"

"Do you think that each and every member of this Jury was born yesterday!?" Mr. Armold asked while gesturing to the jury. "Do you think we're idiots Ms. Adams?"

"No, I don't."

"Why didn't you go inside your apartment to nurse your alleged injuries?"

"Alice was home and I didn't feel like facing anyone."

"Why not report the crime?"

"I was ashamed."

"You have an excuse for everything, I can't wait to read your bestseller when you write it. So why report it afterward, why are we here!? You claim you were ashamed but you still reported the alleged rape AFTER you were in and left the vicinity of a prestigious law firm? Your shame sure went away quickly after just a few hours.

"After I couldn't go through with...ending my life I mean, I went home. Alice found out what happened and she encouraged me to go to the police station."

"After you met with attorneys?"

"Ye-No-that never occurred."

"You mean a rape never occurred."

"No."

"No it never occurred?"

"No-I meant-I mean no a rape did occur and no I didn't meet with any lawyers."

"Or maybe you weren't sure it was rape, your testimony earlier gives the impression that my client was under the impression you wanted to have sex."

"I told him no and I begged him to stop."

"You keep repeating the same thing like a broken record. You had to be convinced to go to the police station by your gold digging best friend whom I have a character witness to attest to her atrocious and greedy nature. A witness who has dated her and she scolded him with a hot drink after he refused to go broke spending on her."

"Objection!"

"And after going to the police station, the police whom were reluctant to press charges because your story made no sense, were overruled by the headstrong, impetuous ADA looking to advance her career by going head to head with me in a high profile case against a famous billionaire! Her own boss was reluctant to take the case!"

"OBJECTION!"

"Isabella tell the truth, you were after money since the beginning. You willfully had CONSENSUAL sex with my client and in a hurry you left your bags at the door of your apartment and quickly took a bus to a law office. All you were seeing and thinking about were dollar signs! You were allegedly bleeding yet you didn't go inside to address your issues, were you that excited to lose your virginity for a big payout?!"

"No, I-"

"You passed a police station Isabella! Exhibit Z-we're going to need more letters of the alphabet for the countless evidence rebutting you, here is a layout of the area and all government buildings on the route of the bus you took, downloaded from the City's website."

"Objection, council is out of line and I don't find this amusing one bit!" Rosalie shouted.

"Obviously you knew where the bus would take you, Ms. Adams."

I watched as Mr. Armold handed papers to the Jugde and to the Jury.

"You were only reassured and convinced to go to the police station after meeting with a team of lawyers. This was your plan from the start."

"No!"

"So what deal did you make with them, you would accuse my client and get a guilty verdict then they would step in to represent you without charging a cent to help you and themselves get the biggest payday ever in a civilsuit?"

"No."

"Objection, council is still badgering my victim!"

"Sustained."

"So what was the deal Ms. Adams, if Mr. Masters is found not guilty they would still assist you to sue my client. It would be less money but still a big payout right? Did you hope he would settle out of court and you would get the D.A. to withdraw the charges or just not show up to testify and board a flight to paradise with your new found riches?"

"No I-you offered me money on behalf of your client!"

"Your tale-telling knows no bounds. Do you have proof of this?"

"No."

"I'm having a hard time believing you, you are the definition of contradiction, even your testimony, you said you liked it and wanted it but then you didn't want it. Instead of reporting the alleged matter you went to a suspicious location instead. The morning after you claim you were raped, were you in pain or feeling discomfort?"

"Yes."

"So why go to maven's road, it's a long road with no homes and only one building, a law office. You went to maven's road because whatever is located there was more important."

"Objection, asked and answered."

"Sustained."

"Ms. Adams to be honest, that morning I'm surprised you didn't visit a publishing company as well."

"Objection, if Mr. Armold has a question he should ask it!"

"Mr. Armold this is your last warning." Judge Bradley warned.

"One final question. Isabella, have you ever been involved in an investigation concerning a suspicious death of an individual?"

What, where is he getting this from!? I heard gasps throughout the courtroom, even Rosalie looked surprise.

"N-n-no."

Mr. Armold chuckled then said "I have no more questions for this woman."

It was as if he were disgusted by me.

"Ms. Smith, rebuttal?" Judge Bradley asked Rosalie who was distracted with her notes.

"Yes, your honor."

Rosalie stood up and walked over to me.

"Ms. Adams when Mr. Armold asked you what happened the morning after the rape, you mentioned a blond man is that correct?"

"Yes, one of Edward's business partners boarded the jet when we landed."

"How did they interact with each other, was it strictly business or friendly?"

"They were friendly and laughing with each other."

"Is this the man?"

Rosalie held up her tablet to show me photo of him.

"Yes."

"Let the record show that Ms. Adams has identified Jasper Coleman-business partner and close friend to Edward Masters as the blond haired individual conversing with Masters on the jet the morning after he had raped her. The prosecution has attempted to subpoena Mr. Coleman who fled to the United Emirates via private jet. I'm sure some of you recognize him." Rosalie told the jurors while showing them Jasper's photo.

"No surprise there, I take it he didn't want to lie under oath for his friend." She commented.

"Objection!"

"Sustained."

"Did Mr. Coleman speak to you, Ms. Adams?"

"No. When I came out of the room and saw him sitting there, he smirked at me like he was mocking me. I assumed Edward had told him what he had done and in his own sick, twisted way he thought it was funny. That was one of the reasons why I was so ashamed to report the rape, I didn't want anyone else to look at me the way he did, it was hurtful."

I felt the tears overflowing and wiped them away.

"Take your time, I know this entire ordeal is...well to say hard would be an understatement and insulting to you. How would you describe having to sit up here in front of strangers and tell them about such an atrocious ordeal and answer obscene question, not to mention have absurd accusations thrown at you?"

"I wish I had jumped off of Alani's pier when I had the chance. I wouldn't have had to deal with the nightmares, horrid thoughts and depression and now this. I'm still dealing with those issues."

"The defense thinks you're doing this for money."

"No amount of money is worth my sanity, pride and dignity."

"Not even $550 million?"

"I don't care if I were offered a billion dollars, no amount of money would have been worth putting myself through this."

"So why are you?"

"Because Edward Masters raped me. I just want my self respect back. I refuse to lie down and just take what he did to me. I'm a human being. I didn't deserve that, no one deserves to have such a heinous act like that committed on them."

"Why didn't you inform the pilot or staff of what happened?"

"Edward wouldn't let me leave the bed except to pee. He only allowed me out of the room the morning after and I immediately left, I couldn't take being on that jet any longer or near him. When I was leaving I didn't see any of the flight crew, the jet was huge too. I was afraid of Edward, I didn't want to stick around. I knew then that he was dangerous and I was afraid he would force me to go to the middle east with him."


*FLASHBACK*

"Bella I know that was one of the hardest things you've had to do in your entire life and I'm so proud of you. You're one of the strongest people I know." Alice told me as soon as we got through the door. We had just gotten dropped off by an officer, I didn't think I would make it through the examination. We went to the police station then the hospital and then back to the police station, I'm tired. I don't have anymore energy left in me.

"The shame you're carrying on your shoulders isn't yours, it's his. He's a disgusting pig and he should be dead."

"I don't want to talk about it and especially not him."

"I understand but um...when are you going to tell Mom and Dad, it doesn't have to be today, whenever you're ready."

"I don't think I should."

"Why not?!"

"I just don't want to make a big deal, it will make them upset and they just don't have to know."

"You're not thinking straight Bella. What if they find out some other way, they'll be devastated."

"I guess you're right."

"Once you do the weight on your shoulders will be lighter"

"Okay."

I'm exhausted from struggling against him last night and I didn't get any sleep. I couldn't fall asleep no matter how hard I tried. I'm mentally, physically and emotionally exhausted. I just wish the ground would open up and swallow me completely.

"I need to be alone." I told her.

"Of course."

I went in my room and locked the door. I headed straight for the shower and turned the water on hot and tried to scrub myself clean. Why do I feel so dirty? I washed my hair and no matter how hard I scrubbed my scalp with shampoo or my skin with soap the 'clean' feeling never came. I gave up my futile efforts and got out, I couldn't look at myself in the mirror. I threw on my pajamas and lied down in my bed.

My mind wandered, images of the night before kept flashing through my mind and all of the what ifs. Maybe if I had fought a little harder...but didn't I fight my hardest? Did I lead him on? Why did he do that to me?

I twisted and turned all morning trying to not think about anything, I just wanted to sleep yet it never came. I turned over on my back looking up at the ceiling but not really seeing it. All I could see are the images from last night. Pain, worthlessness, self-pity and sorrow were all I felt during it. One never knows how they would react until they are put in the situation. I know no matter what I did, it wouldn't have stopped him yet I still have reservations about not being able to stop it.

My mind and spirit was in constant unrest and sorrow. Life, why are you so unfair?

*END FLASHBACK*


During the present...

"The prosecution calls Edward Masters to the stand."

"Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help you?"

"I do."

"Do you know this woman sitting here in the navy dress?"

"Yes. She's my ex girlfriend and accuser."

"Why is she accusing you of raping her if you didn't?"

"Money."

"Has she asked you for money since the alleged night?"

"No."

"Have you offered her money since the alleged night?"

"Objectio-

"Overruled."

Judge Bradley overruled Mr. Armold before he could even finish objecting much less give his reason.

"I've never attempted to bribe Ms. Adams, I have no reason to."

I know I can't proceed any further without compromising myself.

"Mr. Masters please walk us through the events of the night of the incident."

*FLASHBACK*

EDWARD POV

"Good, I want to be with you. I'm not going anywhere so no need to discuss this further."

"I'm laying the world at your feet, whatever you want is yours-all I'm asking is for you to meet me halfway."

"I don't need the world and all material things that comes with it. I just want you...even though you can be overbearing at times..."

"Then prove it- prove you want me."

I watched while Isabella consider my proposal, she sat for a few minutes and I could tell she had countless thoughts running through her mind.

"Alright, I'll marry you-BUT NOT SOON SO DON'T GO GETTING ALL EXCITED LIKE ALICE DOES!"

I pulled Bella in for a kiss.

"When?" I asked her.

"How can you want a date so soon? I still can't believe I just agreed to marry you."

"You already agreed so you might as well give me a date, no backing out now."

"Alright. I'd say a year and a half from now."

"I'll agree to it." I informed her

"You'll agree to it?" She laughed. "You'll be doing whatever I say when we get married. You know what they say, happy wife-happy life."

"Whatever you want."

I reached under the bed and retrieved a little black box I had placed there earlier. Her eyes lit up as soon as they laid upon it and I could see the genuine shock written all over her face. She looked utterly speechless and breathtaking.

I opened the box and the large emerald cut diamond shined its light on her face.

"Do you like it?" I asked her.

"I-I-wow."

I took her hand and slid it on her finger.

"It's beautiful, Edward."

"It's fails in comparison to you."

"When did you have time to buy this, did you pick it out yourself?"

"I've had it for months. I instructed to have it made the day after I met you. I just had to make you my wife, I knew I wouldn't be complete or happy until you said yes."

"Wow. I don't know what to say."

"You don't have to say anything."

My life really is like a fairytale. "You were really sure of yourself."

"It's going to get even better from here, you're marrying Edward Masters."

"The diamond is as big as my finger, Edward. It's still elegant though."

"I wanted it designed to hold a very large diamond without looking gaudy."

"Edward it's beautiful! I really want to ask how much it costs but I'm afraid to know the answer."

I chuckled.

"I don't know how I'm going to tell Alice...Or my parents!"

"I can tell them if you'd like."

"No no. Let's just keep it as our little secret for now. Knowing Alice she'll start planning an engagement party."

"Maybe we should tell Alice as soon as we land, she could speed things up for me. We could be married by next month."

"That's not funny. Alice would nag me to death to go dress shopping as soon as tomorrow. I'm sure she could throw a wedding together in a week if given the chance."

"We should definitely tell Alice tomorrow."

"We're moving so fast but everything feels so right."

"No woman has ignited inside me what you have. We only have a year and a half until the wedding night, we should start practicing now." I told her then kissed her ring and moved further up her arm until I reached her shoulder.

Isabella laughed and her skin turned a beautiful cherry red.

"You would love that wouldn't you."

"So would you." I whispered in her ear then tasted her neck. She's always so fucking delicious. Her skin was warm against my lips and her scent enchanting. With every kiss I placed on her neck she shivered.

"You think so?" She asked.

"Tell me you aren't wet so I can tell you you're lying."

"Are you sure about that?"

I slid my hands down Bella's stomach to her panties and slid my fingers inside.

"Okay I'm wet." She admitted while trying to pry my hand away.

"Relax, you'll enjoy it."

I pulled off Bella's panties and slid a finger in her.

"You're soaked."

I placed kisses on her inner thighs and with each teasing kiss her moans grew louder. When my mouth made contact with her pussy her legs began to tremble. I rolled my tongue over her clit repeatedly and when I pushed my tongue inside her she cried out. Her wetness was increasing and I could tell she was close.

"Do you want more, Isabella?"

"Yes."

"Say it."

"I want more."

I slid in two fingers while I sucked on her clit and it drove her over the edge. Her screams of pleasure filled the room as she writhed and thrashed around the bed, chest heaving and walls contracting around my fingers.

I watched as she came down from the high of her orgasm while the bulge in my pants grew more uncomfortable so I removed them.

"Wow. I can barely breathe. That one orgasm felt like ten."

"Would you like to feel ten?"

"Huh!? I don't think I can cum that much."

"You won't know unless you try." I told her.

Bella looked unsure as I put my fingers back in her, I could feel her responding while I fingered her. Soon enough she was coming all over my fingers again and trying to push my hand away with fail as her orgasm grew nearer and nearer.

Once again Bella was writhing in pleasure and breathless. I left my fingers in while her orgasm subsided and once she had caught her breath I was at it again working my fingers in her pussy. I pulled her thighs wider apart and started eating her pussy again. I felt her walls clenching around my fingers and knew pressure was building up in her clit again. She started struggling to get away but I kept her in place with my other hand. I sucked on her clit and right before she released all the pressure built up in her, I touched her spot. She screamed and shook violently in euphoric bliss and gasped for air while saturating my fingers with her fluids.

"I can't take anymore." She pleaded while out of breath.

"You taste heavenly." I lied beside her and pulled her to me spooning her while placing kisses on her shoulder. "Its only been three." I told her.

"You're trying to kill me." She joked.

"Lets at least try to make it half way."

"How about YOU add the last two by yourself."

"We can do them together."

I turned Bella to me so she was lying on her back and before she could protest my mouth was on her breasts. I twirled my tongue around her nipple and glided over it. Before long her fingers were in my hair. I positioned myself over her while continuing my assault on her breasts and neck I watched as her eyes rolled to the back of her head.

"Are you ready for more?"

"Yeah."

"Open your legs." I told her and she complied.

I took my cock and rubbed it between her pussy lips and over her clit. I felt her tense up as soon as it made contact with her pussy. I continued to tease her and soon her wetness coated the head of my cock. I teased the head at her opening and asked her "Do you want to cum?"

"Yeah."

I continued my assault on each nipple while I teased her entrance with my cock.

"Do you want me to make you cum with my cock?"

"Yes."

"Are you sure?"

"I want to take the next step, I'm ready."

I kissed her as I slowly guided my cock into her. Her screams were smothered by the kiss as I slowly thrust only the head of my cock in and out of her.

I pulled away from the kiss and told her "let me know if I'm hurting you."

I continued to suckle her nipple as I thrust deeper and deeper in her.

"Do you like it?"

She seemed unsure.

"It's a mixture of pleasure and pain."

"Let me know if you want me to stop."

Inside Bella was wet, warm and tight, I could spend all night in this pussy.

When I felt Bella opening up more and her wetness increasing I quickened the pace and my thrusts became deeper. Her moans grew louder.

I pulled her hair down yanking her head up to ravish her mouth. Every bit of her tasted like heaven.

"Do you like this?"

"I like it."

"Come for me, I want to feel your warm fluids all over my dick."

Bella was over the edge and and coming all over my cock repeatedly.


As soon as I got out the shower a call came through from Jasper, he usually doesn't call me until around 8am, it must be important for him to call so early. The ringing woke Bella.

"Good morning beautiful." I told her with a kiss on the lips.

"Good morning. What time is it?"

"Five-thirty."

"What is it?" I answered the phone.

"We have a problem."

"I had plans to take Isabella on a little detour before I jet off to Tehran. I was going to reschedule for tomorrow morning instead of this morning."

"We need to talk...in person."

"We're almost over the City so I'll call you ten minutes before we land. Is something wrong?" I inquired.

"It's nothing for you to worry about, just a minor setback."

I hung up.

"I'm excited to see Alice."

"Happy to rush off and leave me so soon?"

"No, don't make it seem like that. When does Edward Masters need attention, you never seemed like the affectionate type."

"I don't seem like many things." I told her. "One of the attendants will bring you breakfast, after you eat get ready to deboard. I'll have a car waiting to take you home."

"Okay... And I'm the one who's rushing off?"

"You said you can't wait to see Alice, I think you would much rather be catching up than staying with me while I handle boring business affairs."

My phone rang again and it was Benjamin this time.

"Those calls you're getting won't cause us to fall out of the sky right?"

"I'll make sure you're served water along with your breakfast to help flush the alcohol out of your system."

"I'm not drunk."

I took the call in the other room.

"Mr. Masters Sir, we're about to land, would you please have a seat and allow me to fasten your seat belt."

"Assure that Isabella is comfortable as we descend, make sure a car is waiting to take her home and stop bothering me."

"Right away, Sir."

I texted Jasper while Benjamin rambled in my ear about exploring partnerships with certain companies and what he claims was a horrific time with Alice. We landed and I wondered what sort of news Jasper had that he couldn't disclose over the phone.

"Jasper is waiting for me to discuss more urgent matters, I'll continue this discussion about your incompetence in person when I see you."


Jasper boarded and of course before getting down to business he wanted to talk about other things.

"How was your trip?"

"Brief."

"Seemed pretty long to me. Surely you didn't intend to vacation for months, being the world's largest oil and gas supplier that would've been impossible. I heard you tasked Benjamin with one of the most difficult assignments of his career working for you."

"What the hell is going on with him, is it his time of the month, he's crying to whomever will listen. I just got off the phone with him, he was ranting on about being abused and assaulted and not being able to come into work due to said assault. Last night I instructed him to leave Malik in charge and head for Tehran, when I land in Tehran his ass better be there."

"Well what did the girl do to him, you told me she was tiny."

"I have no idea, I didn't care to ask."

"I sure dodged a bullet, she sounds fucking insane."

"That's why I didn't throw her on Malik, he would've killed her. The goal isn't to have Isabella depressed over a missing friend."

"Where is this Isabella anyway?"

"In one of the bedrooms having breakfast."

"How are things going with you two?"

"She agreed to marry me."

"That was...fast."

"I didn't know you were the marrying type. Going to settle down and have a family with four kids and a dog?"

"Funny."

"How did you get her to say yes so quickly, if she's really the type of girl you and Emmett explained her to be she should be running for the hills from your evil ass."

"Whatever you say pot."

"Shouldn't she be able to sense an evil aura radiating from you?"

"You know what-you and her friend Alice would make a good couple. The both of you irritate the fuck out of me."

"That's what friends are for. So why the sudden interest in marriage?"

"I always get what I want and Isabella is what I want."

"Ah so you're adding her to your list of possessions, she really is bringing out something in you. Well I'll let Emmett know we can flip for best man or maybe I'll just let him have the position since he's such a big fan of Isabella."

"I'm glad you find my life entertaining."

"So when do you plan to have her sign a prenup and NDA?"

"There's no need."

"But if you start fucking her and introduce her to your...pleasures and it doesn't work out you know she's going to sing for the biggest cheque, they all do."

"I've already had her, best pussy I've had. She's submissive and open to my desires. She's going to be more fun the more she learns."

You seem quite taken with her. Still have her sign a prenup, you know...in case she ends up taking you to the cleaners and owning your solo company and your share of our company. I don't want to be business partners with her, I might not like the way she conducts business."

I smirked at the thought. "As if that would ever happen."

"Well we know you're not one who would let such a thing ever happen."

Isabella came out of the room wearing her dress from last night and I enjoyed the way it hugged her body, I want to peel her out of it again. I noticed she wasn't walking properly, no surprise there.

"All set?" I got up and asked her.

"Yep."

"Let me walk you out."

I instructed Simon to take her bags to the waiting car.

"All of the lovely dress I bought you and you chose to put this one back on?"

"I didn't feel like digging through my luggage. I don't want to unzip anything until I'm home, it will take ten men to get the zippers to close again."

"I can't say I don't enjoy seeing you in this one. I'll call you later and pick you up tonight for dinner. I'll stay in town today and leave for Tehran first things tomorrow morning." I informed her.

"Okay."

I helped Isabella down the steps of the jet and kissed her goodbye before helping her into the car. I watched while the driver finished loading in her bags then drove off.

When I turned around Jasper was standing at the entrance of the plane waiting for me.

"What is it that's so urgent you wanted to talk in person?" I asked him while taking a seat.

Now... about the other matter...

*END FLASHBACK*

"So you're telling this court that after you proposed to Ms. Adams you two had consensual sex?"

"That's what I just told you."

"Why would Ms. Adams accuse you of raping her?"

"Money."

"At anytime did Ms. Adams ask you to stop?"

"No."

"Did she cry?"

"No."

"In your version of that nights events you said she struggled to get away from you."

"Yes."

"Why, was it because she didn't want to participate?"

"No. It was because the pleasure was too much for her, that's how much she was enjoying it."

"You're sure full of yourself. You didn't really know if she was enjoying it, did you read her mind, maybe she changed her mind?"

"You're grasping at straws, that's a normal part of consensual sex. She never told me to stop and after she came she told me she wanted more."

"Don't we feel like the man. How did she get the bruises on her wrists?"

"I may have held them too tight."

"You may have held her wrists too tight? Why were you restraining her?"

"It was in the heat of the moment, she liked being dominated."

"Did she tell you that?"

"She said she liked it."

"That's a yes or no question, Mr. Masters."

"Yes, she asked me to get rough with her."

"Do you like having control over people Mr. Masters, do you enjoy having control over others?"

"Only if they li-"

"Please answer yes or no."

"Yes."

"Obviously, you wouldn't have pulled her hair or restrained her if you didn't. You're a powerful man, you're listed as one of the top five most influential men in the world."

"Objection-if the prosecutor has a question she should ask it instead of making small talk with my client."

"Sustained."

"Did you threaten Ms. Adams that you would have her parents killed if she reported the rape?"

"There was no rape and I would never threaten anyone."

"Did you not sometimes mention you have a number of hitmen at your disposal?"

"I may have JOKED about it once or twice, that's all it was, a joke."

"Did you not brutally rape her then instruct her to go to sleep because, 'what happened has already happened and there's nothing we could do about it?'"

"Never."

"Why did you rape your then girlfriend, Isabella Adams?"

"I didn't."

"Was it because she told you no and bruised your ego?"

"I didn't rape her."

"You've already admitted to enjoying having control over others, a woman struggling underneath you must really get you excited. You don't like being told no, do you? A few months of buying her expensive clothing, jewelry, countless name brand dresses valued at $1300.00+ a piece and and upgrading her to a life of luxury and she had the nerve to deny you, Edward Masters. Who did she think she was?! Isn't that what you thought when you raped her?!"

"I didn't rape her."

"Why did you propose marriage to Ms. Adams within a few months of meeting her?"

"I thought she was the one for me, it was like love at first sight."

"Wasn't it because of your control issues, you didn't love her, you wanted to possess her."

"No."

"What happened the first time you proposed to her?"

"She turned me down."

"Why?"

"She felt it was too soon."

"Any normal, sensible person would but you Mr. Masters, you wanted to control and possess her. In your mind she was your property after all."

"No."

"So you want the jury to believe that you, a billionaire bachelor saw Ms. Adams and instantly fell in love and wanted nothing more than to marry her and live happily ever after?"

"Yes. I wanted the best for Isabella, for us."

"Did you or did you not attempt to control her life?"

"No."

Are you interested in bondage during sexual activities Mr. Masters?"

"Objection-relevance?"

"Insight to the accused's character."

"Overruled. Please answer the question, Sir."

"Not parti-"

"Yes or no?"

"Yes."

"Have you bound Ms. Adams during sexual activity before?"

"Yes."

"What kind of sexual activity was it?"

"Foreplay."

"Did you enjoy having control over her?"

"I did."

"But you got tired of that. You wanted more?"

"If she wa-"

"Please answer the question yes or no."

"No."

"So after your then girlfriend turned down your marriage proposal and had the nerve to turn you-Edward Masters down for sex after months of waiting and spending tens of thousands of dollars on her, you decided you had had enough, am I correct?"

"No."

"We have testimony from the doctor-"

"Whom my attorney also discredited."

"How did Ms. Adams get so ripped up?"

"She was a virgin and I am well endowed."

"You should take the bar exam."

"Objection."

"Withdrawn."

"Why should we believe you when you've already admitted to enjoying being in control and your then girlfriend of months had turned you down yet again for sex?"

"I've always had and still have many women at my beck and call. I didn't and don't need to rape anyone, who doesn't enjoy power?"

"But those women were willing and threw themselves at you, here we have Ms. Adams who was the exception and you couldn't handle rejection. You're dominant and controlling by nature. She was threatening your ego, she was a defiance to your very being!"

"No."

"Having women throw themselves at you everyday became boring, you wanted something new, different and a challenge. Isabella was different, fresh meat, she was a challenge for you. She was never starstruck, she was unmoved by who you are and what you have, in fact, she didn't really enjoy the thought of having so much wealth. Those reasons added to her telling you no, that sent you into a frenzy. You had to exercise your power over her and reassure yourself and your ego that you were in control!"

"No."

"Admit it, you saw red!"

I watched Rosalie get her notes.

"After the alleged incident didn't you tell Ms. Adams, 'no one will believe you so you might as well forget about it and not ruin such a wonderful relationship?'"

"There was no such incident and I never spoke those words to her."

"Do you tell yourself that so you can sleep at night?"

"Objection."

"Sustained."

"The next morning after the alleged rape, did you pretend like everything was peaches and cream?"

"Everything was because there was no rape."

"Didn't you ask Ms. Adams if she would like to see a doctor?"

"No, she was fine. There was n-"

"After you raped her?"

"I didn't rape her."

"Objection! My client has repeatedly stated he did not rape Ms. Adams, prosecution is continuing to badger him."

"Move it along, Ms. Smith."

"The morning after you raped Ms. Adams di-"

"Objecti-"

"The morning after you allegedly raped Ms. Adams, did you attempt to kiss her and when she turned her head away from you-you grabbed her by the neck and slammed her onto the bed?"

"No."

"Did you not yell at her, 'Since you won't drop the f-ing attitude I'm going to show you how little you are and how powerful I am. I won't even make you shower. When we land, I want you to go to the nearest police station or any station for that matter and tell them Edward Masters raped you. See how far it gets you. When you see it gets you nowhere and no charges are brought against me-I want you to call me and say, 'yes Mr. Masters, I see things your way and I'd like for you to take me to dinner?'"

"No."

"What did you and Jasper Coleman discuss the morning after the alleged incident?"

"Objection, relevance?"

"Your honor based on Ms. Adam's testimony I have reason to believe that Mr. Masters confessed to the crime to Mr. Coleman, who I may add has fled to avoid testifying."

"Overruled. Answer the question Mr. Masters."

"We discussed business."

"Be more specific."

"We had an in depth discussion about expanding our business and exploring other avenues such as manufacturing vehicles. We were considering another partnership, that's all."

"That's all you discussed...I bet."

"Did you recall noticing Mr. Coleman smirk at Ms. Adams?"

"No."

"While under oath she said he did. Just because you didn't take notice doesn't mean it didn't happen, do you know why he would smirk at her and give her a 'knowing' look? Also why he would dodge a summons to testify?"

"Objection-argumentative."

"Sustained."

"Mr. Masters are you surprised to be on trial, you didn't expect for things to progress this far did you? You didn't think she had the courage to speak up and even though you're paying off sergeants and Captains-"

"Objection-lack of evidence."

"-My office still filed charges against you, well really me. You can be as nonchalant and indifferent as you want but I know your blood is boiling. You're livid, having to sit up here and face a jury of your peers to answer for a crime you thought you could've easily had swept under the rug. It pisses you off that I'm standing in front of you questioning you. You can't intimidate me Edward. "

"Objection, does the prosecutor have a question?"

"I do. You claim your version is the 'truth', why would Ms. Adams accuse you of rape if you were ready to lay the world at her feet? If she was after money, wouldn't it make sense to marry you with no objections instead of repeatedly turning you down? She could've lived a life of luxury instead of fighting against you in court knowing there would be a chance she could lose. Don't you think it would've made more sense and been a smarter move to stay with you and play the role-please answer the question yes or no?"

"Yes."

"Your witness."

Emmett rose and approached me.

"At anytime during your sexual encounter, did Ms. Adams ask you to stop?"

"No."

"Did she ever give any indication that she did not want to have sex?"

"No."

"You testified that the morning after the alleged incident, you made plans with Ms. Adams for dinner?"

"Yes. I had a flight to Tehran on business the next morning and she had previously declined to accompany me so I wanted to spend as much time with her before I had to leave and she left see her parents."

"That's thoughtful. Did she seem upset with you?"

"No."

"Did you two have a fight or argument?"

"No."

"You even kissed her goodbye?"

"Yes, she was thrilled. I was stunned and heartbroken when I found out she was accusing me of such a heinous crime."

"In your version of events, you mentioned that her Father was overprotective?"

"Yes, when he found out she had left the Country without consulting Him, he was livid so livid he almost had a stroke. I was present when she video chatted with him, he scolded her mercilessly and brought her spirit down."

"But she was a woman twenty-two years of age at the time."

"Yes but he very much still controlled her. I understood he was upset she left without telling him but he demanded she return immediately. He didn't think she should be a grown woman enjoying life and travelling with friends."

"So her father held certain expectations and she adhered to his rules most of the time?"

"She was always terribly afraid of disappointing him."

"So we can chalk this up to buyer's remorse from a young woman who just couldn't handle the fact that she had disappointed her Father by willingly losing her virginity before marriage and couldn't live with her own decision."

"Exactly."

"So you would say she knew what she wanted but her Father was a hindrance of sort, as in he was abnormally controlling and possessive of her?"

"Objection, leading."

"Sustained."

"She was elated to accompany me on a trip with her friend half way across the world. She was more than ready to explore and have new experiences."

"What do you think happened between the time she left you and reporting the alleged rape, beside visiting a law firm?"

"Objection, lack of evidence!"

"Sustained. The Jury will disregard Mr. Armold's last comment."

"I'll rephrase. What do you think happened between the time she left you and reporting the alleged rape?"

"I think she couldn't face her Father knowing she had disappointed him. She didn't realize she's her own woman, independent of restrictions. So before facing him with the truth of her new experiences on the trip, she concocted a lie to feel better about herself. Not to mention she wanted to keep living the lifestyle I introduced her to, what better way to obtain money from me with no strings attached than to accuse me of raping her?"

"Thank you. No further questions."

"Redirect your honor."

"Go ahead."

"Mr. Masters, you are aware that Ms. Adam's Father had passed right. Yes, I was saddened by such awful news."

"Of course you were. So if Ms. Adams was so afraid of disappointing her Father, why not recant after he died-Or better yet, she could have not showed up for Court and avoid recanting. Why put herself through the torture of a trial?"

"To sue me for money, she would get more if I was to be found guilty rather than not guilty. Only Ms. Adams can answer to the strange things she does."

"That's enough for today. We're adjourning for today until 10:00am tomorrow morning." Bradley announced with a hit of his gavel.


Rosalie POV

I noticed Masters and Armold were leaving so I rushed to Judge Bradley's chambers to find out why he didn't instruct the court officer to place Masters in custody.

"Sir, Masters is getting away!"

Judge Bradley sighed.

"The security system malfunctioned about eight minutes before the alleged encounter with Ms. Adams and Mr. Masters. The cameras were down during the incident up until about nine minutes after the incident."

I began to storm out of Bradley's chambers.

"Smith, I know you're upset but you know how the law works, without evidence there's nothing that can be done."

"But do you see how the world works, I'm not just some young hot-headed prosecutor. Powerful people like Masters are allowed to trample on us regular people without anything being done about it. Now I have to go and tell my witness who is already upset with me that the man who raped her gets to freely walk into a female's restroom and intimidate her and nothing will be done to him. The security system didn't just happen to malfunction less than ten minutes before Masters walked into that restroom."

"I know, I know Ms. Smith."

"Money makes the world go round. This is why he decided to do it here. If he had harassed her on the street or anywhere else he would be in cuffs. But because its a courthouse restroom it's highly unbelievable and unfathomable."

I stormed off and went to locate Bella. I can't believe I have to tell Bella that Masters won't be facing any consequences. I caught up to Bella as she and Dave were about to walk out of the Courthouse with Alice a few feet behind them. I can tell She and Alice still weren't on speaking terms due to the distance between them.

"Bella, wait!"

Bella turned and looked at me with an awaiting expression.

"What is it?" She asked.

"Don't you want to file a report against Masters for violating the protection order?"

"I thought his bail would automatically be revoked since he did earlier?"

"I'm sorry Bella, there's no proof. The cameras had malfunctioned earlier and of course he's going to say he would never attempt such a thing in a courthouse. It's your word against his but-"

"Why even bother, I don't care." I could hear the bitterness in Bella's voice.

"But you have to fight, you can't just sit down and take whatever he dishes at you. You should t-"

"He's Edward Masters, why bother." Bella said dryly then walked off.

I could tell there was a change in her attitude. I grabbed her by the arm.

"Does this have something to do with what he whispered to you earlier, please tell me what he said to you. Whatever thre-"

"It doesn't matter. Just leave me alone."

Bella snatched her arm away from me and left with Alice in tow, Dave took Bella by the arm and guided her into a waiting black jeep. I have a feeling Alice will attempt to convince Bella to file a report against Edward, one can only hope. When the courthouse doors opened there were countless flashes and a swarm of reporters. Masters was heading to his waiting jeep with his security detail, privately hired and paid for by him. He didn't answer any of the reporters questions.


*FLASHBACK*

Bella POV

I took a deep breath, I can't believe I'm going to do this. I really don't want to tell Mom and Dad. Alice kept pressuring me until I agreed I would tell them. They don't need to know, this will only worry them. Besides, if Edward is charged wouldn't my identity be kept private?

"Hey Mom, how are you?"

"Hey Sweetie, I'm good, just doing a little gardening.

I can already feel the lump in my throat.

"I need to tell you something, You and Dad."

"Okay, I'll send you a video chat requ-"

"NO."

"Why not, you know your Dad and I love that we can see you without actually being near you. I don't know much about technology bu-

"Put it on speaker-speakerphone is fine."

"Okay..."

"Charlie!" I heard my Mom yell.

"Bella, your Mom said you need to tell us something, what is it?"

There was a pause. I gathered the strength to tell them.

"Bella?"

"I lied when I told you I was staying with a friend from college on my trip..." I blurted out. There was silence, I could tell that they could tell more was coming. "I was really staying with a man I met, both Alice and I were staying at his mansion."

"Bella wh-"

"There's more." The tears had already began to well up in my eyes.

"I've only known him for a few months. And before Alice and I jetted halfway across the world with him, maybe two weeks. His name is Edward Masters, he's an oil t-"

"I've heard of him, billionaire in the oil and gas business." Dad said.

"Bella-"

"And he raped me, Edward Masters raped me." The tears overflowed and my voice cracked. I could no longer refrain myself. "I'm sorry I lied, I'm so sorry I lied to you over and over again everyday.

"Oh my goodness!" Mom exclaimed. "Are you okay, did you go to the police-the hospital-are you okay?!"

"I don't know, I think so. I filed a police report, they took me to the Hospital."

"I could hear my Mom crying and it broke my heart." Dad was silent.

"My baby! We're coming out there, now! How could this have happened, where's Alice?!"

"She's in the living room, she's fine."

I heard my Mom breathe a sigh of relief.

"When did this happen?"

"Last night, I got in this morning."

"Charlie how could someone do this to our baby, how could this happen?!"

"I'll kill him with my own hands!"

"I'm sorry."

"It's not your fault, you have nothing to apologize for." Mom told me. "Where was Alice when it happened, you two never split up."

"She had already left..."

"Why did she leave and to where?"

"She met a guy and traveled with him."

"So she ran off with some stranger, I can't believe this." My Mom sounded so upset.

"It's not her fault."

"I know it's not her fault-what if the guy she met had turned out to be a psycho-what did the police do?"

"They took me to the hospital and an examination was done, they took my statement and said they'll be in touch."

"They haven't arrested the bastard?!" Mom yelled.

"Not yet."

"Based on the evidence they will decide if they have enough to charge him." I heard Dad explaining to Mom.

"What evidence, that son of a bitch raped our daughter!"

"Honey how did you cross paths with Edward Masters?" Dad asked me.

"He was visiting a shelter I was volunteering at. He got my number and started asking me out. He was persistent and I gave in. He was really nice at first, he bought me a lot of things but that's not why I liked him...We just...clicked. Then he got possessive and it all went downhill. He wanted...more and I wasn't ready."

"This won't be swept under the rug, we'll go to the media if we have to!"

"Mom-"

"No-some entitled pervert doesn't violate my daughter and get away with it!"

"Dad-"

"Your Mother is right. I know I won't be able to control myself when I'm face to face with him."

"Bella sweetie, I'm getting our suitcases and packing right now. We'll be on the first flight out. I'll stay on the line with you for as long as I can and I'll call you back right after we land."

"You don't have to do t-"

"Bella please, we're coming. I can't imagine what you're going through and you need your parents."

A soft knock came at my door.

"Bella, Bella, are you awake, would you like some hot cocoa?"

"No thanks."

"Would you like something else instead?"

"No thanks. I'm not hungry."

"Okay. Did you take your pain medication?"

"Not yet."

"You need to eat something before you take it." Alice yelled from the other side of the my room door.

"I know."

"Is that Alice?"

"Yeah." I got up and opened the door while trying to ignore the pain I felt and Alice came in.

"Do you want to talk to her?" I asked my parents.

"Yes and we have so many questions but my head is spinning. We're walking out of the house now. I can't wait to hold you."

"I'm so sorry, if I hadn't ran off to Rome none of this would've happened."

"Please don't do that to yourself. You could've ran off with that man a thousands times and it still wouldn't have given him the right to put his hands on you."

"Bella stay strong, we'll all be together again soon. We'll get through this together, you're strong." My Dad told me.

"Okay."

"I'll take good care of her until you guys get here." Alice told them.

"I want to nap. I'll call you guys when I wake up or call me after you guys land."

"Okay."

"We love you both." Mom said. "Dad loves you."

"We love you guys too." Alice and I said in unison.

"Do you want me to lie down with you, I promise not to talk." Alice asked me.

"Okay."

Alice and I both lied down in my bed facing each other. There was no judgement in her eyes, no doubt. The same with my parents yet I still feel dirty. I closed my eyes and tried to sleep and this time, with Alice next to me, it came.

When I awoke Alice was still next to me, I managed to sleep but it wasn't pleasant at all. I only had nightmares about last night. It felt so real, I could feel Edward's hand on my wrists and him inside of me. I shivered at the thought and quickly sat up. I don't want to go back to sleep, I don't want to dream of him again.

I decided to get some water, the pain between my legs is a constant reminder of last night so I took two painkillers.

"We slept all day, how did you sleep Bella?"

"I don't feel tired anymore."

"That's good. Wanna watch some tv?"

"Okay." This is what Alice and I usually did before the trip.

"I'm ordering dinner."

"I'm not hungry."

"I'll still get you something in case you change your mind later."

Alice and I lounged on the couch watching our favorite shows. It was Alice's pick and of course she liked the entertainment channel. Something called The Billionaires Club came on. I get to watch Alice drool over lavish and expensive castles in London, car collections in Dubai and designer clothing from France. These people don't have a care in the world, it must be nice they can wear something once then donate it or throw it away cause they don't want it anymore.

I watched as Billionaires spoke about their lavish lifestyles but Alice seemed uninterested and they were down to number three on the list.

"What's the matter Alice, are you hungry, I'm sure the food will be here soon-no need to go into depression mode and please chew it instead of just swallowing everything whole."

"It's not that."

"What is it, Jeff Bezos not your type?"

"Eww of course not. It's just...after you showed up this morning all disheveled it was like my world changed. On the way to the hospital I had time to think and while there I had even more time to think and what does all these luxuries matter. I'm turned off from it. I was chasing after the wrong things. This is my fault, if I hadn't pressured you, you would've never been on a flight alone with Edward Masters. I know you don't want to talk about this and I'll stop but I just wanted you to know."

Just when things were beginning to feel normal...

"Don't do that, it's not your fault."

I just want things to go back to how they were and to feel normal again.

Number two on our list is billionaire bachelor Edward Masters. The oil tycoon spends most of his time between the middle east, the U.S. of A and London where he owns quite a number of castles and posh mansions. He's owner of the world's leading oil and gas company with a revenue of $479 billion a year and an estimated net worth of $898 billion by Forbes magazine although it is speculated to be much higher. Most billionaires buy cars to add to their collection of toys but Masters' favorites are large private jets and companies. That's right, this is not 'The Fabulous Life Of...' this is the Billionaires Club. With real estate all over the globe, Edward-

Alice changed the channel.

"I'm sorry. We won't be watching anymore of those shows. It's your turn to pick something to watch."

"I don't really feel like watching anything. I'm gonna go lie down."

"Okay. Do you want me to lie down next to you?"

"No-that's okay."

"I don't mind."

"I'd rather be alone."

"Okay...well... I'll let you know when the food gets here."

*END FLASHBACK*


During the Present at Masters Manor...

Edward POV

I took a swig of 1964 dalmore constellation. That damned woman, a witch disguised as an angel.

"Sir, would you like anything else?"

"That will be all."

"What do you plan to do with that shebitch of a prosecutor?" I asked looking at Emmett?

"Like what?"

"What do you mean like what-she took your balls away in court this morning. Do I need to replace you with two attorneys from the legal team?"

"I'm perfectly capable of doing my job effectively and efficiently, Edward. Besides, are you sure it was my balls she took away, I did a great job."

I shot him a glare.

"That blond bitch doesn't know the hole she's digging herself in."

"What are you, nervous?"

I couldn't help but grin, I don't recall ever feeling such a ridiculous thing in my life. "You know how I feel about order, I don't like things falling apart."

"I've already planted reasonable doubt in the Jury's minds, even the Judge looked surprised. I'm going to tear her case apart with our secret weapon, all I wanted was for the girl to take the stand and tell her sob story of lies. When I reveal what I have, there'll be no salvaging her image or the damage done. The prosecutor will have to offer you a deal which we'll obviously decline due to the fact you'll be found not guilty because of the overwhelming evidence against the girl."

"Information like that would destroy the honest character she's portraying but I don't like leaving anything up to chance. The trial shouldn't be allowed to continue, take out the judge. He needs to have an accident or something, just make it look good! I don't want people pointing fingers at me. Bradley was the only Judge with the balls to sit on this trial, it can't be allowed to go any further. I don't care how many others have to suffer in the process, he can't be allowed to proceed."

"Edward I think we should continue with the trial, no need to take out anyone and the prosecution won't be able to refile against you. We will make sure the 'not guilty verdict' covers every newspaper and story from here to the middle east and all over the world. It would seem better that you were found not guilty by a jury of your peers. No matter how good we make murdering the Judge looks, people will still whisper."

"You know I don't like leaving things to chance, Emmett. Take out the Judge, no one else will touch the case I assure you."

"Alright, I'll get Malik on the line."

"Can you be so sure of that Edward, the prosecutor is headstrong and the case will be reassigned to a different Judge, maybe one of them might actually have the balls." Jasper told me.

"Sears doesn't like the idea of a trial. What Judge would even want to sit on the case?"

"They might rely on the fact that you won't have the second sitting Judge killed because it will become not just suspicious but obvious."

"Obviously I'm going to do away with that bitch of a prosecutor. No one in the DA's office will touch the case, Sears won't refile.

"That is true." Jasper agreed.

Jasper poured himself another glass and smirked at me.

"I'd like a good laugh too. Share the joke so Emmett and I can both grin I told him."

"How funny is this, Edward Masters being challenged by a twenty-three year old woman and her young prosecutor friend." Jasper grinned.

"You think this is funny? My mother was in the courtroom listening to Isabella's lies. The police stopped the jet Esmé was on and searched it when she was about to fly off to Fiji. They searched the jets that were at the hangar, of course they didn't find anything. I find nothing comical about this entire situation."

"What do you plan to do with this Isabella girl?" Jasper inquired.

"Obviously I can't do anything about her now. I'll take care of her after I deal with the Judge and Shebeast. I'll deal with Isabella after everything blows over. I'm more than happy to save her for last."

"Sounds interesting, so how are things with Esmé?" Emmett asked.

"She tells me she believes me but I can tell she has doubts. That Isabella... She deserves a fucking oscar for that performance. I've never had to force a woman in my life."

"Until Isabella came along."

"I'm glad you find this amusing, you and Jasper might as well work for the prosecution."

"Sorry I couldn't help it."

"I didn't force Isabella. I'm being painted as a rapist and even my own Mother is doubting my innocence."

"I told you she was no good for you and now she's turned your reputation upside down. From the night I first met her at the charity event I warned you she seemed...off. She's so believable when she lies, she had the entire courtroom feeling sorry for her."

"That shebeast tried to make me lose my composure, the nerve of her trying to subpoena my flight crew."

"Your flight crew, what about me-she tried to subpoena me too as a witness for the prosecution. Too bad I wasn't there to catch the show though. I guess she thought screaming at you would make you lose your cool."

"I'm done talking about this undesirable situation."


*FLASHBACK*

There was a knock at the door.

"Don't get up, I'll get it." Alice said and rushed to the door.

"Who is it?" I heard Alice ask.

I leaned over and watched Alice peep out.

"Officers! I love men in uniform but not at a time like this." Alice hurriedly open the door.

"Goodnight ma'am, are you Isabella Adams?" I heard the officers ask while flashing their badges.

"No but I am her bestfriend, did you arrest the son of a bitch yet?"

"Um, this is another matter. Could you get her please?"

"Please, come in. She's not doing that we-"

"What's going on?" I asked.

"Bella, you startled me, you didn't have to get up, I was inviting them in."

"Isabella Adams, daughter of Charlie and Renée Adams?"

"Yes."

"We have news we would like you to sit for."

"What news?" Alice asked.

"This isn't easy." The officer said while taking off his hat and I suddenly felt like I was in a lifetime movie. "I'm terribly sorry and I regret to inform you that your parents were in a fatal accident an hour ago."

"Fatal?!" I could feel a lump building in my throat. "Are they okay?"

"I'm sorry."

I could feel my eyes welling up with tears as Alice hugged me.

"What kind of accident, what happen?!"

"A car accident, they collided with another vehicle. The driver of the other vehicle had a seizure and your Father was driving at a high speed. All parties expired at the scene, your Mother...Your Mother was asking for you when we got to the scene, she succumbed to he injuries before the ambulance arrived. I'm so very sorry ma'am. Please have our condolences."

I could feel the tears rolling down my face. I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

"Oh my goodness!" Alice was shaking and crying uncontrollably against me. Mom and Dad died?

Alice collapsed against me and one of the officers picked her up. For me, it was as if time was standing still. Is this 'shock'?

"Ms. Adams?"

"Ms. Adams, we're calling an ambulance for your friend. Can you hear me Ms. Adams, your friend is unconscious. Ms. Adams? Ms. Adams?"

*END FLASHBACK*


The next day during the present at Rosalie's house...

Rosalie POV

I ain't worried 'bout nothin'
I ain't wearin' na nada
I'm sittin' pretty, impatient, but I know you gotta
Put in them hours, I'mma make it harder
I'm sending pic after picture, I'mma get you fired

I know you're always on the night shift
But I can't stand these nights alone

Why is Fifth Harmony in my dream performing?

And I don't need no explanation
'Cause baby, you're the boss at home

You don't gotta go to work, work, work, work, work, work, work

Shit that's my phone ringing!

"Hello?" I'm so exhausted I felt a bit incoherent and didn't care how heavy my voice sounded.

"You're asleep!? Look at the newspaper!"

I looked at the time on my phone while nearly blinding my sleepy eyes with the bright light.

"It's 6:19 in the morning, this better be good news Marcel!" I yelled through the phone while dragging myself out of bed and to my front door.

"I hate to be the bearer but who else will warn you first?"

I barely made it to my front door with my eyes barely open and got the paper, it was still dark out. I turned on the light in the living room and looked at the paper.

MURDER-SUICIDE: CHEATING JUDGE IN HIGH PROFILE RAPE TRIAL STABBED TO DEATH BY JEALOUS, ENRAGED WIFE!

My eyes opened wide in disbelief at the headline, I can't believe what I'm reading.

"What!?"

"Mmhmm." Marcel agreed.

I sighed in frustrated. "I can't believe this." I need some coffee and a drink. I went over to my bar and turned on my keurig and took out my creamers, caramel, brandy and vodka. Fuck! I'm out of whipped cream.

"So what now, I can barely find any info." Marcel confessed to me.

"I j-just can't believe this, does Masters have no shame!? Doesn't he know how this looks or does he just not give a fuck!?"

"Zero fucks given I take it. So you don't think it's just a coincidence, I know how it looks but sometimes weird coincidences do happen."

"Marcel- I'm a lawyer. I'm not buying this for a second."

I continued to read aloud, "In the late night hours Judge Claymont Bradley was stabbed to death after his wife Cynthia Bradley found explicit photos and text messages between Him and multiple women in a private cellphone he had kept hidden from her. It is believed Cynthia Bradley flew into a violent, emotional state and confronted her husband then stabbed him during the heated argument, afterward she slit her own throat. The couple had been married for twenty-nine years. Neighbors heard a ruckus and called 911. A police car was parked outside the gates of the couple's residence 24/7 due to the nature of the trial the Judge was attending to but by the time the officers made it inside the home, it was too late.

Their eldest daughter and only child Marsha Bradley, 31, found out the grim news at 2am after coming home from a night out of celebrating the acquisition her Masters degree. The investigation is on-going and law enforcement have no comment at this time. It is unknown whether Marsha Bradley is a suspect or if police is even treating the crime as a double homicide or murder-suicide.

I can't believe what I'm reading. I looked at the large photo of Judge Bradley and his wife on the front page. Judge Bradley was such a fair and just man.

"How did the newspaper get this so fast?"

"Word travels, most cops don't keep their mouths shut and I'm hearing they're treating it as a murder-suicide. The daughter isn't suspected and she has a solid alibi. She isn't suspected of hiring a hitman nor is Masters."

"So that's on record... tell me whats off the record?" I asked Marcel.

"Some people are whispering Masters could've set it up but they're also saying the inheritance is large and Marsha is the only beneficiary. People who knew the family think the daughter would never do such a thing, a woman with a heart of gold."

"And?" I asked.

"Police are looking to close the investigation as soon as possible. There's not even one shrivel of evidence that goes against the murder-suicide theory, the neighbors heard arguing and the two officers couldn't enter the residence as quickly as they wanted to. Due to the couple being 'preoccupied', there was no one to open the gate and the officers had to hop over. They had to wrestle with the family's guard dogs first before attempting to get the front door open. The whole thing is silly and messy but the higher ups aren't pushing for a deeper investigation. They probably got paid off by whomever if it was indeed a hit. If not then I don't know what else to tell you, Rose."

"I can't believe Masters killed a freaking judge! This isn't good for my case, Bella or my career!"

"The case will just get reassigned to a different judge, you can get a whole new trial and use it to add more ammo to your case and still get your win."

"No judge is going to take this case, none. I can't believe Masters killed a damn judge! I just can't believe this, Ihave to tell Bella, I hate to wake her up so early with bad news, I'll wait until 8am."

"Shouldn't you be worrying about yourself, if it is Masters he could be going down his list and you could be next."

My phone started beeping and it was an incoming call from Sears.

"Marcel I'll call you back, I have a call waiting."

"Okay, I'm coming over for drinks so make enough coffee for the both of us."

"See you when you get here." I hung up and answered Sears' call.

"Good morning, Sir."

"Good morning Ms. Smith, I trust you've heard the news, everyone who works in the office already has."

"I did."

"I hope this is turning out the way you intended." And with that said he hung up.


This has been the longest two hours of my life.

"Hello?"

"Good morning Bella."

"How are you feeling?"

"I could be better but not that you care."

I sighed.

"I do care Bella and I really appreciate you testifying and putting Masters away will give yo-"

"Why are you calling?"

"I have bad news. I'm sorry to give you bad news so early in the morning but I wanted to be the first to tell you before you heard it from someone else. Judge Bradley died last night, his wife stabbed him to death. It appears he was cheating and she flew into a jealous rage and...killed him. Don't worry, the case will be re-

click

"Hello, Bella?"

"Bella just hung up on me." I told Marcel.

"Cause she's not dumb, she knows Masters is behind it and shit is about to get real. We're going to need more liquor, Rose."

"Well there goes my case. I doubt she would put herself through such torture by testifying again in a new trial, I can't say that I blame her."

"Don't fret, she'll come around."

I gave Marcel a look.

"Won't she?"

"You do remember who she testified against right?"

"Oh yeah. All you can do is have faith, maybe this will give her the courage to make sure he can't use his power to hurt anyone else."

"Like that's going to happen, I caught him in the courthouse restroom trying to intimidate her! He had her pinned against the wall while whispering something in her ear, she wouldn't tell me what he said."

"Maybe the reason she hung up so quickly has something to do with what he said. Edward Masters doing his own dirty work, that's odd, why not send one of his henchmen to intimidate her? What kind of message could it be that he felt it best and the need to deliver it in person?"

"I just assumed he was threatening to have her killed but you're right-he could've sent someone else to deliver that message. It must be something he wanted only her to know and coming from only him."

"It seems finding out what he told her is a top priority, Rose."


During the present...

While at the safehouse...

Bella POV

I hung up on Rosalie and continued watching the news, Judge Bradley's death has been on all the news channels since 6am. This is a nightmare, I feel like everything is going to come crumbling down, I hadn't been able to sleep since 3am. Why do I have a feeling of dread like things are only going to get worse from here?

"Are you okay Ms. Adams, who was it?"

"I'm fine, it's nothing."

"You do know if you receive harassing or threatening phone calls you should tell me right?"

"I know, Dave." It's just I don't know who I can trust anymore.

"Jamaal should be here soon, he's coming on for eight. Would you like me to make you some tea before I'm relieved of my duties?"

"That's really nice of you."

"No problem."

"Dave?"

"Yes?"

"Why weren't you outside the restroom in the courthouse yesterday, you were following behind me then you were gone..."


During the present back at Rosalie's house...

I went overboard on the liquor and now my mind is abandoning me, does that make any sense? Why is it so hard to think and why do I keep hearing a damn doorbell!

"Rose, someone's at you door!"

"Oh shit it really is ringing."

"Huh?"

"Nothing."

I got up off of the couch to answer the door. Marcel should've answered the door cause he's not as wasted as I am. All he's doing is drinking and complaining about his relationship issues.

"Delivery for Rosalie Smith."

"That's me."

"Sign here please."

"First of all what is it, I didn't order anything."

The delivery boy handed me a long, slim, black giftbox with a white satin ribbon tied into a bow. I don't care if uncut diamonds and gold is in this box, Emmett can't be thinking he can get back into my good graces with a gift after what he did. I opened it and a dead black rose was inside with a card. The card read, 'A beautiful rose for a beautiful Rose.'"

"What the hell is this!" I yelled at the delivery boy.

He only smiled and took off. Something tells me he's not really a delivery boy, looks young though. He probably was paid to bring this shit to my house.

"What is it?" Marcel asked.

"Someone sent me a fucking black rose!"

"Those are modern and hip, gorgeous too. What's the big deal?"

I handed him the card and held up the tattered rose.

"A beautiful rose for a beautiful Rose." Marcel read aloud. "Awe, that's so cute."

"Open your drunken eyes and look at the damn card and the rose!"

"Oh my!"

"That's right it's written on a fucking condolences card!"

"Mmm seems like someone is planning your death, Rose. A black dead rose inside a black box. Tsk tsk tsk, this rose sure has seen better days."

I don't think Emmett would do this but he could still be pissed about the abortion. An eye for eye? No. This has to be the work of Masters. Is he trying to tell me I'm going to be a dead 'Rose'? He's probably somewhere ginning his ass off.

"I need a drin-no. I need to sober up, it's clear I'm next on Masters' list. It's too soon to try to take me out so I know I have time. I need to think!"

"Rose, what are you going to do?"


While at Masters' Manor...

Edward POV

Well well well, things are looking up. I sipped my scotch while reading the morning paper.

I turned the page and my phone started vibrating.

"Hello, I see things are going your way."

"It would seem they are."

"Congrats on your victory."

"Not so soon my friend, this is just the beginning."


This chapter was long I know but you guys deserved something special. Some previous sneak peeks were revealed in this chapter and a lot of questions you guys asked were answered in this chapter.

As for the two disasters, what Edward and Benjamin spoke about in chap 13 etc will all be answered soon enough. The CLIMAX is next chapter and boy oh boy, everyone's 'file will be pulled' as we like to say in the Caribbean. We find out the truth, everyone's business and secrets will be out in the open and it will NOT be pretty!

You all will understand how it becomes a hea real soon.

Feel free to ask any question you like, I respond quickly.