Chapter 8

Edward – Patience – Guns N' Roses

EPOV

It was a quiet drive home. They all knew I had my meeting with Bella this morning, and immediately guessed things had not gone well when I didn't show in the lunchroom, choosing to retreat to my car instead. No one said anything, but Jasper knew my mood, and was trying desperately to ply me with waves of calm. I was grateful for their concern, but it was pointless. I dropped the others off at home. Emmett looked at me with a raised eyebrow, silently questioning me, but he caught Alice's pointed look. They knew she would fill them in later. I pulled around the front and continued my way to the hospital. I desperately needed to talk to Carlisle.

I made my way past the information desk, nodding at the receptionist as I quickly strolled through the busy hallway. I could hear Carlisle's thoughts emanating from his office, and I knew Alice had called him. I lightly knocked on his door and entered. He was sitting behind his desk, looking at me with concern in his eyes. I immediately sat in one of the large leather wingbacks, and took a quick look around the office. I had to smile as I took in the familiar surroundings. No matter where we lived, Carlisle's offices always looked the same. He made it a point to hang the Hassam painting on the wall along with updated diplomas and accreditations. The old and trusted tomes and texts lined the bookshelves, and his large antique wood desk and tufted leather chairs all remained the same. It was comforting for him to have this bit of familiarity in our ever-changing surroundings.

I quickly glanced over to the corner of the desk to the two framed portraits he always kept there. The first one was of he and Esme, hugging in a loose embrace, smiling adoringly at each another, obviously in love. The other photo was of our family in a casual group setting.

My mind quickly relayed the day we took the photo. Esme had hired a photographer to meet us at a remote location: an abandoned railroad bridge. The woman looked at the setting appreciatively, noting the wonderful interpretive possibilities such a backdrop would provide. She was awed by the perfect photogenic quality our family possessed, and internally wondered if we would allow her to use these prints in her advertising. I smirked as I wondered what she would have thought had she known the truth. Of course, this was only one of the many family portraits we occasionally had taken over the years. It was necessary to keep up with current fashions and advances in photography.

I glanced over the filtered and photoshopped-enhanced background and focused on the seven personages in the photo. Each one of us was smiling and looking like the seemingly normal and loving family we tried to convey. I zeroed in on my smiling façade, remembering all too clearly my true feelings that day. I took in Jasper holding Alice's hand and Emmett with his arm protectively wrapped around Rosalie's waist, and had never felt more alone.

Pulling myself from my musings, I looked over the desk at Carlisle. He was looking at me expectantly, patiently waiting for me to begin. Seeing the forlorn look on my face, he broke the silence.

"I take it things did not go well this morning?"

I relayed to him every detail of my conversation with Bella. He cringed slightly when I told him of the kiss. To his credit, he remained silent until I was finished. He sat with his head down, hands folded in front of his chin, mulling over what I had told him. I heard a litany of thoughts as they swirled around in his mind.

"She still has feelings for you?" He lifted his eyes and looked at me.

"She says she does. I think she does, but with the doctor in her life, I'm not sure what I can do about it."

"I know Dr. Sutton, Edward, and I can attest that he is indeed above board in his dealings with patients, and his friends and colleagues all speak highly of him, including me."

"Yes, I know."

"I know how deeply you love Bella, son, but I think it would be wise to prepare yourself for the possibility that she may choose not to come back. As much as she may care for you, she must think of her child's needs first. I hate to admit it but choosing Dr. Sutton may be in his best interests."

I thought of the ring Dr. Sutton had sitting in his safe, just waiting for the right moment. As soon as Bella made it clear she loved him, he would make his move. Of this, I was sure.

Carlisle remembered how lovely Bella was at the benefit and sighed. Although he would be happy for her should she marry the doctor, he would regret Bella not being an official member of the family. He had always thought of her as a daughter. And then there would be the devastating consequences concerning me.

"How will you deal with Bella belonging to another man?"

I cringed. I had tried so hard to not think about that.

"I would have no choice but to accept it. I cannot be without her, Carlisle, and I will continue to stay close for her protection."

"Always on the periphery, without any kind of contact?"

"Yes."

"You know how wrong that sounds, don't you?"

I looked into his eyes, and only saw concern. I hung my head. It sounded so sick - a perverted vampire stalker. But, regardless, I would do it.

"I know how wrong it sounds, Carlisle, but what else can I do? I cannot be without her. I would rather be on the outside looking in than have nothing at all." I sounded so pathetic.

"Edward, she's not his yet. What do you have planned?"

"Planned? Carlisle, I laid my heart bare, and she still rejected me."

Carlisle looked thoughtful. "You do realize what you're asking her to do, don't you?"

I wasn't sure I followed. It must have shown on my face, because he smiled at me faintly, but it didn't reach his eyes.

"Edward, think about it. You're asking her to give up a loving relationship with a kind man who loves her deeply and cares for the boy as if he were his own. He takes responsibility seriously. She will give up this safety and security for someone who has proven in the past to run and abandon her when situations get difficult. She has nothing to secure her decision against other than your word. And you've proven the validity of that by breaking every promise you'd ever made to her."

Carlisle looked me over introspectively. "At least she knows you love her, that, at least, is something. But I'm afraid, son, that if you'll have any hope of being with her, the burden of proof is entirely on you. You know what they say, 'Climb the highest mountain, swim the deepest ocean.' There has been so many lies, Edward. Words simply aren't enough."

I had never felt more dejected. My hopeless situation spoken in Carlisle's carefully chosen wording left little doubt of my minuscule chances. He walked over and placed a supportive hand on my shoulder.

"You didn't think this was going to be easy, did you?" He had the faintest hint of a smile. I had to resist the urge to roll my eyes.

"Of course not, but I'm at a loss of what to do. The thought of never being with her again is destroying me. What are my options, Carlisle? Do I even have any?"

"Well, we all know how stubborn Bella can be. She is not the type of girl to be swayed easily. Efforts to win her affections will most likely need to be consistent and over time."

"I don't have time, Carlisle. Doctor Sutton is ready to propose as soon as she makes her feelings known." The memory of the ring flashed through my mind again. My stomach clenched.

"Edward, there's nothing we can do about that. All you can do now is to take her offer of friendship." He looked at me pointedly. "Take it seriously. Show her in a consistent way that she can count on you for anything. Rebuild her trust. Be there for her in any capacity she will allow and look for ways to show her you love her. It may take a while, but she is a smart girl, and she'll soon see your sincerity."

I must have had a doubtful look on my face, because he quickly added, "I know this isn't what you wanted to hear, Edward, but unfortunately, there isn't a quick fix to this. It will take time. Bella will come around." Smiling, he added, "Who knows? Maybe this separation and the rebuilding of trust may be, ultimately, the best thing for your relationship." That statement spoke to Carlisle's true essence: hopeful, and always looking for the silver lining.

Time was a luxury I didn't have, but I knew he was right. This isn't what I wanted to hear, and I was impatient. I licked my lips again and thought of the kiss Bella and I had shared some hours earlier. I wanted her now, not some obscure future from now. Regardless, friendship was all Bella could offer, and I would take it. Gratefully. Greedily. I would show her in any way she would allow how much I loved her. And I would protect her. I had no doubt the depth of Dr. Sutton's love for Bella, but that did not negate the fact that he was human. There was only so much he could do, but I would be starting my campaign by continuing to make up the difference.

I looked over Carlisle's desk and into his eyes. His love and concern for me had no boundaries. This man was truly a father to me in every way that mattered. I couldn't help but rib him a little.

"Hmmm. 'Climb the highest mountain, swim the deepest ocean'." I flashed my biggest smile. "Since when did you start channeling Dr. Phil?"

It had been two weeks since my talk with Bella, and things between us had marginally improved. I had caught her glance a few times in the hall, and instead of the expected blush and averted gaze, she had smiled. She had even looked up at me in the parking lot on Wednesday and nodded in acknowledgement. It was a start.

I decided to take Carlisle's advice and do all I could to show Bella my feelings. I made sure her house and car were secure morning and night. I left a white rose on her desk each Friday. I hoped she would take the small gestures for what they were: little reminders of how much I cared for her. Hopefully they would keep me on her mind throughout the week. She had asked me not to enter her home without her permission, and I wouldn't. Next to her safety, rebuilding her trust was the most important thing. Because of this, I was limited in what I could do, so I started with her tiny yard. I procured a push mower and soundlessly mowed at night. I raked leaves, weeded and mulched her flowerbeds in preparation for the upcoming winter. I made sure all of Jase's toys were removed out of the rain. Emmett decided to join me one evening and we both washed Bella's windows at vampire speed. I had never enjoyed menial labor so much.

I often wondered if Bella appreciated my gestures, but the pointed glances and smiles she gave me in passing was more than satisfying, and I would show her my love in any way she would continue to allow regardless.

The night of our extra-curricular cooking class finally arrived, and I couldn't believe how nervous I was. Alice pranced into the kitchen, gathered together the few grocery bags she had procured earlier and glanced over to where I was practicing a new piece I had started composing the previous week. I had added a few bridges and worked them through seamlessly. Being around Bella again had inspired me, and I was working to keep up with the constant stream of notes running through my mind.

I had decided a new composition for Bella was in order. Her lullaby represented a previous life, and I wanted to eventually present her with a new melody that would embody the new stage in our relationship. This was something that would convey the level of my devotion.

I could hear Esme's appreciative thoughts from back in her studio. She was thrilled I was composing again, and the fact that this piece was for Bella made it that much sweeter.

I ran my fingers across the keys and allowed the new bridge to swell in crescendo. I was pleased. It captured the depth of feeling I had for Bella and at the same time, the simplicity of my vow to never leave her again. It was coming along nicely. Even though I knew I wouldn't be presenting it to her any time soon, it had fulfilled its purpose for this evening, at least: relieving my nervous tension.

I was looking forward to seeing Bella, but I was apprehensive of her reaction. Every vision Alice had had of this evening was not favorable. Alice stood in the doorway, holding the grocery bags we were to take to the cooking class. I met Alice's gaze, but I could not return her smile. I had made small, but significant gains this week, and did not want to destroy it by making another mistake.

It will be fine, Edward. Please trust me.

The same vision of Bella's incredulous stare zipped through her mind, and I grimaced. Still, no one bets against Alice. I still couldn't return her smile, I took the bags from her, and we walked out to the Volvo. I raised my eyebrows in question as she smoothly slid into the driver's seat.

Better let me drive, Edward. I know where we're meeting.

A litany of native plant species recited alphabetically in Latin was going through her mind. She was hiding something from me. I frowned. This was not a good sign, but I knew better than to question her. I sat silently as she pulled her own set of keys from her pocket and revved the engine.

It's not a Turbo, but I suppose it'll do.

We rode in silence until the horror of where we were headed hit me.

"Doctor Sutton's house, Alice? Are you kidding me?"

"You have serious trust issues, Edward. Yes, Doctor Sutton's house. Bella's kitchen is too small to accommodate everyone. It will be fine."

We made our way through the now intimately familiar neighborhood. I suppressed a shudder as we cruised past Freddy's house. If I could sleep, I know the horror of what had happened there would be a recurring nightmare.

We slowly made our way up Dr. Sutton's driveway and parked amongst the other students' cars. Alice grabbed the bags and looked at me.

She won't be happy to see us. You know that already. Just follow my lead.

I nodded my head, and taking the bags in her right hand, exited the car and followed her up the front walk. Alice was all smiles as she rang the bell and shook out her short hair. I could hear soft music and laughter from inside.

The door opened, and Bella's bright smile instantly faded as she realized who was standing on the doorstep. Quickly looking over her shoulder, she stepped out onto the porch.

"What are the two of you doing here?" She demanded in a quiet tone.

Alice smiled brighter. "Hi, Bella! We're here for the cooking lesson."

Bella's eyes flashed. "Are you serious?"

"Yes, we are. Cooking is one of the few things we don't know how to do yet, and we'd like to learn."

"Cooking is something neither of you will ever need, Alice." She gave an exasperated eye roll, "And how in heaven's name did the two of you even get into this class? It was booked just days ago, and neither of your names were on the list."

Her eyes suddenly got wide, and she glared into Alice's face while speaking in a near-whisper.

"Holy crow, please tell me you didn't do, um, you know, anything to anyone."

It was Alice's turn to roll her eyes. "Puh-lease, Bella! You know we would never do anything like that. Two students had other things come up and couldn't come, that's all. Can we come in, or what?"

A voice suddenly broke through from the kitchen, "Miss Swan! We have everything unpacked. What do we do next?"

Bella looked back to us and unwillingly stepped aside to let us in.

"Don't think this conversation is over, Alice."

Alice smiled as we walked through a long foyer that passed behind a large upscale living room and made our way through to the kitchen. I noticed Jason sitting on a giant leather couch holding a game controller and jumping around excitedly as his hulking character smashed his way through stone walls on a huge plasma TV screen. Jeffrey was sitting next to him holding a second controller, equally absorbed in the game.

"Hey, Jase! Great move! You're gonna be better than me before long!"

"I already am!" A short chuckle of amusement came from Jeffrey, but his face instantly dropped into a suspicious frown as he noticed Alice and I walking into the kitchen. He looked at Jason.

"Keep going, buddy. I'll be back later, we're starting now." Jason, still concentrating on his game, gave a quick nod and Jeffrey nearly stumbled over his own feet hurrying to his place at the counter, making sure to glare his disapproval at me as he passed.

Geez, doesn't this freak ever let up? Making eyes at Bella in class isn't enough for him, he's gotta move in on me out of school, too? Like anyone as amazing at Bella would have anything to do with someone as creepy as Cullen, anyhow. All those Cullens are just too weird; too perfect. It's just not right.

He shot another glare my way. I suppressed a smile. He was just like Mike Newton! I quickly glanced up and gave him another of my full-on predator smiles, purposely showing off all my razor-sharp teeth. Jeffrey visibly shuddered.

Ugh! That is JUST wrong! Creepy, creepy, creepy! He nervously busied himself unpacking his bag of groceries and averting my gaze. His weak show of dominance was laughable. If he only knew that Bella indeed had "something" to do with me once upon a time. Alice looked pointedly up at me.

If you're done playing around, would you please put this on?

I looked over to the apron she had just pulled out of one of the bags. I cocked my eyebrow, but then noticed everyone was tying on aprons, including Bella. Jeffrey just had to push my buttons by moving smoothly up behind her and began tying her strings.

"Here, Bel- I mean, Miss Swan, let me help you with that," he said in a slightly lower voice than usual. I suppressed an eye roll. Irritating me would not be good for his health.

His mental musings were seriously testing my control. Thankfully, the sound of Bella's voice centered me.

"Uh, thanks, Jeffrey," Bella replied uneasily. She quickly commanded everyone's attention and jumped right into the class.

"Thanks, everyone for coming tonight. Before we begin, I must tell you that this isn't my house, so please be careful and respectful. Don't touch anything outside of the kitchen. I trust everyone brought the items listed on the class information sheet that you should have received when you signed up." Heads nodded all around. "Great, please take out your cutting boards, tools and vegetables. I'll start talking while you begin peeling and chopping." She looked over to where Alice was digging through her grocery bag. I felt a bit lost.

"Uh, Alice and Edward, everyone learned how to do this in our class last month. Do you want me to quickly go over it for you? "Alice smiled brightly while she finished tying off her very stylish retro black-checkered apron.

"No, thank you, Miss Swan. We can manage," Alice sweetly replied.

I looked at the pile of vegetables Alice had brought. I had cooked only one other time: Bella's prom dinner. I had purchased the vegetables already prepped. I felt uneasy and out of place. Even when I ate as a human, it wasn't a man's place to be in the kitchen. My memories were vague, but I was quite sure either my mother or a servant did all the food preparation. It was the man's job to provide the food, and then to eat it. Nothing more. I looked to Alice apprehensively. She quickly handed me a vegetable peeler and nodded to the pile. I picked up a carrot and turned the peeler over in my hand. This couldn't be that difficult. Being careful to move at a human's pace, I slowly ran the peeler along the length, and watched the skin peel back into ribbons and plop down on the cutting board.

My mind immediately recalled the months I spent with Bella in her kitchen while she prepared Charlie's dinner. I regretted not paying closer attention to the actual food preparation. I had, naturally, spent that time watching her. Time well spent, as far as I was concerned. I smiled remembering her easy conversation, as I would move in behind and kiss her neck and shoulders, wrapping my arms around her waist as I inhaled the luscious scent of her hair. She would mildly object, of course, and I always made sure to make it up to her later by helping with the dishes. It was such a sweet time. How I wish it could be that way now.

I glanced up to see Bella watching me closely with a forlorn look in her eyes. Did she remember that time as well? For the millionth time, I desperately wished I could see into her mind. She quickly grabbed her handout and began passing it out to her small class as she began talking.

Alice grabbed the peeled carrot and began cutting it into uniform pieces. I moved on to the potatoes.

"So, class, today we are going to make vegetable soup. This is an easy dish to make and can be accomplished in a relatively short amount of time. I will show you at the end how to create some different variations. Can anyone tell me why this soup is a good economical choice?"

It was amazing to watch Bella teach. I was, again, mesmerized by her easy manner and expertise. She was teaching these children how to make easy, nutritious meals on a limited budget, effectively preparing them for the time they would soon find themselves on their own. It was obvious to me that for Bella, many of those skills were learned out of necessity. I could easily picture her "making do" in her small kitchen while still in college and taking care of a toddler. She was so determined and strong.

"Usually, a loaf of French bread or baguette can be purchased for a dollar or two, or even a fancier loaf can be bought for pennies on the dollar in the day-old section. Be sure to check all your options before making your purchase."

Bella bent over to open the oven door and pulled out a loaf of hot French bread still in the foil packet. The kitchen became engulfed with its warm aroma. Mouths instantly salivated, and thoughts became focused around finally eating the food. Bella instructed everyone to grab a plate and bowl. Alice handed me the dishes and nodded with her chin for me to get in line. I ladled a modest amount of soup into my bowl and grabbed a very small end piece of bread. Todd gave me a questioning look.

"I ate before I left," I explained lamely.

Some students chose to sit, but most mulled around in a small cluster around the island. Nods and grunts of appreciation went around the room.

Bella called loudly around the corner to the living room, "Jase, honey, come into the kitchen and eat dinner." I could hear the boy warring in his thoughts. He was hungry and wanted to eat, but he was at a crucial point in his game and was reluctant to stop. After Bella's second stern look in his direction, he pushed the pause button and made his way to the table where his bowl of soup was cooling. Bella looked around and announced, "Does everyone know my brother, Jason?" A few nodded and smiled around bites of bread, but most looked at Jason with questioning stares. I guess not everyone knew he was her brother, and not her son. Despite my mental advantages, I had only found out a few weeks ago, myself. The irony amused me.

Jase glanced around to the students, smiled and dug into his soup with hungry vigor. His thoughts were still centered on his game. My thoughts were centered on the boy. If I truly wanted to be with Bella, I would have to make more of an effort to get to know him. Bella was a package deal now, and if I had my way, I would, for the most part, be helping to raise him. This poignant thought began to process. Me. A parent. A father. This boy would regard me as I did Carlisle. Did I have it in me to be worthy of such a position? Did I possess the patience and wisdom such a role would demand? Suddenly all my fears and apprehensions regarding my shaky relationship with Bella intensified. No longer would I only have to worry about being everything the woman I loved needed, but I would also have to be everything for the child she loved, too. I must have been staring and thinking longer than I thought. Bella's voice cut through my reverie.

"Are you done with your soup, Edward?" She was eyeing me warily. Despite the small portion I took, I still had a good deal left in the bowl. I looked into her deep brown eyes and couldn't help but feel a bit sheepish.

"I believe I am, Miss Swan."

"Would you please put your dishes in the dishwasher?" I looked around me and noticed everyone cleaning dishes and packing up. I gave her the lopsided grin I knew she loved.

"Of course." I heard her breath catch, and I couldn't help the jolt of satisfaction that shot through me.

Alice didn't seem in too much of a hurry to leave. She quietly rummaged through an end cupboard and located a storage tub and lid.

We need to stay behind and help Bella clean up. I'll keep busy in here; you introduce yourself to Jason.

I stowed my dishes in the dishwasher and slowly meandered my way through to the living room. Jeffrey was saying his goodbyes to Jase as I entered.

"You're doing great, bud. Keep playing, and maybe when we're done with this, we can start on Fortnite together. How does that sound?"

"Cool!" The boy was excited over this prospect. He would get along very well with Emmett. Would he get along well with me?

Jeffrey registered my presence out of the corner of his eye.

"Ok, cool. Make sure to tell Bella that I'm always available if she needs help unloading the car or moving furniture or anything, okay?"

"Yeah, sure." The boy's concentration was back on the game. I knew Freddy had added that last bit for my benefit. I watched as he made his way back to the kitchen, grabbed his bag and said goodbye to Bella. He knew he needed to leave but was hesitant. I snorted as his thoughts revealed that he had considered the evening as a date of sorts and longed to kiss her goodnight. Instead, he ran his fingers along her forearm and smiled, thanking her for a nice evening. Alice mentally shouted halting commands at me as the low snarl in my chest began. Giving one last awkward glance to Alice and me, Jeffrey took his bag and jacket and left. I was grateful he was finally gone, and proud of myself that I had not hurt him. I was amazed that someone so young and clueless could be so bold, and in Bella's boyfriend's house, no less.

I walked toward the couch and sat down next to Jase, just watching him for a moment as he continued to play. I caught bits of conversation from the kitchen.

"Wow, Bella, I had no idea you had such a stalwart admirer." Leave it to Alice to immediately address the elephant in the room. I watched Bella through her eyes and smiled a bit at the bright blush that flushed across her cheeks.

"Um, yeah. I know. It's common for students to occasionally develop crushes on teachers, but I seem to attract the insistent ones. And speaking of insistent students, would you care to explain now why you and Edward are here?"

I shut out their conversation and turned to Jase who was still concentrating hard on his character's progress. It looked to be a toy version of The Incredible Hulk. Emmett was a game enthusiast, but I didn't recall ever seeing this one.

"What are you playing?" I asked.

"Lego Hulk." A man of few words, apparently.

"I've never seen this game. What are you trying to do?" Maybe talking about his favorite activity would spark a good conversation.

"The Hulk is trying to find the bad guy who has the chemical formula to turn him back to human, and he has to punch down all the walls in the factory to find it."

"Sounds like fun. What's your high score?" This was obviously the magic question, because his face lit up and broke into a huge smile.

"Four hundred and eighty-nine thousand! I'm beating Jeffrey, and I'm way better at this game than Bella."

"Can I play, too?"

"Yeah, I guess. You can be Jeffrey's guy." He glanced over at me. "Just don't tell him."

"Don't worry, I won't." I grinned as I picked up the controller and continued where Jeffrey had left off. The game was ridiculously easy, and it was obvious Jeffrey had been letting Jason win. It became apparent to me that Jeffrey was chumming up to Jason for the same reason I was. Getting to know him would put him in a better position as far as Bella was concerned. Maybe Jeffrey was smarter than I had given him credit for. We continued to play until Alice's voice interrupted my concentration.

Time to head out, Edward. Dr. Sutton is on his way back. Damage control has been successful. Finish your game and say your goodbyes.

I worked my "bad guy" persona into a good ending point and pushed the pause button.

"I've got to go now, Jason. Thanks for a fun game." I stuck my hand out to formally introduce myself.

"I'm Edward, by the way. It was good to meet you."

Jason paused his game and turned to take my hand. He looked pointedly up at me and his mental observations took note of my features. He saw the light pallor of my skin, my gold eyes, and he felt the cold hardness of my hand. His astute mind astounded me. He missed nothing, and yet the innate caution and fear apparent in preservation instincts was not there. He didn't fear me. Instead, his mind was curious. He knew I was different but wasn't sure what the difference was. Very much like someone else I knew. I smiled at the boy, being careful not to show my teeth. No sense in scaring him.

Bella was right. This child was very intuitive, and I was suddenly ashamed of my arrogance in dismissing her concerns so flippantly. I could certainly see how explaining our nature to him would pose serious problems. I had promised Bella I would work on her (now our) concerns to make this complicated relationship work, and I would. For now, I would get to know and appreciate this young boy that had become the center of Bella's world. He would soon be a big part of mine as well.

"It's good to meet you, too, Edwin." I smiled, then chuckled. Yes, I would need to spend more time with him.

"That's Edward."

"Oh. Yeah. Sorry." He turned back to his game and I watched his progress as I waited for Alice and Bella to finish their conversation.

"...so, I was thinking that maybe the first weekend back from Thanksgiving break would be perfect for our shopping trip."

"I'm not entirely sure, Alice, I'll have to look at my calendar to be certain." Bella sounded apprehensive.

Doctor Sutton's thoughts suddenly made presence in my mind. He was on his way back home from his shift and was very much looking forward to spending the rest of his evening with Bella and Jason.

I love it when Bella has her class in my kitchen. It makes the house smell great. I can't wait to come home to her and our kids every night. I wonder what she cooked.

He was picturing a very demure, domestic Bella wearing an apron and a smile, cradling a baby on one hip, wooden spoon in hand, happily humming over a huge pot on the stove. I looked over to Bella wearing her apron, and noticed the image was not far off from what Dr. Sutton was picturing. The whole scene radiated domestic bliss, and my resolve faltered.

I could instantly see the immediate future in Alice's mind wavering. She quickly glanced at me from the corner of her eye.

Edward, what are you doing? You know how well taking Bella's choices from her worked the last time, don't you dare do it again! Presuming what Bella wants and needs will NOT work out well for either of you! I told you, she is at a crossroads. Let her make her own choices.

I rolled my eyes in frustration. Message received. I could hear the garage door opening.

"Well, look if you need to, Bella, but trust me, you'll be free to go. I'll call you later. It was a fun evening, thank you for accommodating us."

Just then, Dr. Sutton sauntered through the back door. Smiling hugely, he made a beeline for Bella and swept her up, encompassing her in a warm hug. Inhaling the fresh scent of her hair, and placing a kiss on her neck, he quietly whispered, "Missed you, baby. Please tell me you're staying tonight."

I cringed. I didn't know the status of Bella and Dr. Sutton's physical relationship, and I really didn't think I wanted to. I prayed he wouldn't project any mental pictures at me. After dealing with Jeffrey's lurid fantasies all evening, knowing intimate details of their relationship would test my restraint in ways that may not end well for the good doctor. Thankfully, Bella intervened.

"Uh, David, you remember Alice and Edward Cullen."

"Oh. Yes, I do." He wrapped his arm securely around glared at me. He had not forgotten my behavior at the benefit.

"I wondered whose Volvo was parked outside. So, you're signed up to take Bella's cooking classes, huh?" He was eyeing me suspiciously. Alice continued to smile sweetly. I tried for a look of "pleasantly interested," but from Bella's raised eyebrow, I'm sure it was a tad off. The arm around Bella tightened. Alice and I both nodded in the affirmative.

Doctor Sutton glanced down at Bella. "Well, you're learning from the best. Be careful driving home and tell your father hello for me." It was a not-so-subtle dismissal, as he was more than ready to see the back side of me. He gave Bella another quick squeeze and turned toward the kitchen to look for leftovers. He was hungry.

Alice and I both remained quiet most of the way home. She was thinking over the evening in her mind, going over the techniques and variations Bella had taught us. I was sure she was hiding something.

"This whole evening was set up so I could get to know the boy, wasn't it, Alice?"

Alice rolled her eyes. "Wow, Edward, I just can't get anything past you, can I?"

She looked over and smiled.

"Yes, it was," she said. Things are really going to be taking off from now on, and it will be in everyone's best interest if he begins to become familiar with you, and eventually, the rest of the family. I was really proud of you, by the way."

It had been a difficult evening in many ways but being so close to Bella made it worth it. I had to agree with Alice. If I was going to be successful with Bella, I needed to get to know Jason. I'm sure tonight's little introduction would only be the beginning.

A/N: I used to watch Dr. Phil back in the day, and he legit told that line to a guy who broke up with his girlfriend, moved, and then later decided he wanted to get back together with her. He wanted her to move out to him! The nerve.