On to the next chapter! I hope you enjoy it!

Disclaimer: Twilight and DWTS…not mine. Ok. Moving on.

EPOV

Emmett's laughter was still boisterous when I spoke to Bella again.

"Bella, what exactly happened?"

Before she could answer me, my sister chimed in first.

"All I said was that I thought she or Emmett would win this season and her wine must have gone down the wrong tube or something, you know?" Alice said innocently.

Not that I didn't want us to win, because I still hoped for that, I'm still not sure why she would be choking.

"She just caught me off guard," Bella interjected hoarsely. "I'm fine."

"Alice thinks Bella or I will win? Let's fucking go!" Emmett's mirth was palpable as he reached over to Bella for a high-five.

She smiled back at him and weakly raised her right hand to his as he smacked it as everyone laughed. I was just grateful that it didn't seem too hard of a high five and that it was with her uninjured hand. Last thing this woman needed was another injury.

"What were you laughing so hard at, Emmett?" Alice asked, not so innocently. Jasper was by her chair now, smiling and squeezing her shoulders ever so gently.

I glared at the two of them before turning back to Emmett who glanced in my direction. He smiled, and I took a breath.

"Oh, the guys told me a joke in the kitchen and I was a bit slow on the punchline. It hit me when I walked out here. Sorry about that. It was funny though." He laughed again, subtly looking back at me and I nodded slightly in thanks.

I'm not embarrassed or anything by my relationship with Bella, but I don't want her to think we were talking about her behind her back, even though her name was never mentioned in that context. I'm also happy that he now understood why Rosalie and I have never and would never be an item. We weren't remotely attracted to each other because we weren't each other's types. My exact type was sitting right in front of me.

"Well, on that note," Rosalie interjected, smacking Emmett on the back. "We should probably be heading out. Thank you again, Bella, for a delicious meal."

I glanced at my watch and saw that it was almost ten o'clock. The time really flew by. Bella started to stand and I joined her from my kneeling position next to her chair.

"Yeah, I don't know about you guys, but I need my beauty sleep," Emmett said with a playful, but fake, yawn. Bella giggled in response.

"It was my pleasure and it was great to get to know you all better. We should do it again soon." The gracious hostess was in her element. She loved to take care of others. I saw that with her father, and even me, this weekend.

There were a number of head nods and mumbles of agreements among the group as the ladies all began to get up from the table. Ben had joined Angela at the far side of the table and was offering her hand. Interesting. Emmett had thrown his arm over Rosalie's shoulder and she nudged him lightly in the ribs with her elbow. Flirts, the both of them. And Alice and Jasper were doing their soul-searching gaze again. Ugh.

I felt Bella's hand slip into mine and I looked down at her. It felt like home when her hand was in mine and she was next to me. Ok…so we weren't any better than the rest of them.

Bella and I walked everyone downstairs where hugs and handshakes were shared all around. Angela had opened the door for Ben, who was the first out the door, after a brief hug for Bella and a fist bump for me, followed by Alice and Jasper. I kissed my sister goodnight and hugged Jasper. Alice was mentioning shopping with Bella as Jasper all but dragged her out the door. Once you got Alice talking about shopping, they would have been there for hours.

Last was Rosalie and Emmett, who each pulled Bella into a warm hug. As Rose came to give me a hug, I pulled her aside slightly.

"Take care of that one," I said, nudging my head in Emmett's direction. She offered me a genuine smile and her blush returned.

"Likewise," she said slyly, her head jerking in Bella's direction. I nodded my affirmative and gave her one last squeeze before Emmett came to say his goodbye to me.

"Come on, you big lug," Rosalie tossed over her shoulder, walking down the pavement to her car.

"She wants me," whispered to me as we finished our handshake, winking. I chuckled lightly, nodded my head, and patted him on the back as he made his way towards her.

"I'll go ahead and leave you two alone to say your goodbyes," Angela said, winking at the two of us.

"Goodnight, Angela," I called after her retreating figure.

"Goodnight, Edward," she responded without even looking back. I appreciated the privacy.

Bella and I walked out the front door, waving to Rose, who was the last to drive away, before closing the door behind us. We stood on the doorstep for a few awkward moments before I opened my arms and Bella stepped into them.

"Is it bad that I don't want you to go?" she asked shyly after a few more quiet moments.

I smiled and breathed a heavy sigh.

"I don't want to go either," but I knew our time was at an end tonight. "But hey, we'll see each other at rehearsal tomorrow. So, good news there. In a little over 12 hours, you'll be stuck with me again."

Her upper body shook with laughter in my arms.

"I wouldn't exactly say I feel stuck with you. More like you are unfortunately stuck with me."

"Well, I certainly don't feel that way. However, I know you have to be tired with your flight this morning, then rehearsal with me, and finally this last minute evening of entertaining guests."

"Your flight was earlier than mine," she countered.

"True. I am pretty beat so I really should get going." Damn Alice with the flight at the ass-crack of dawn "Though I really don't want to. Now that I have you here with me, I don't want to let you go."

"Then don't" she whispered, those two words so soft that if we weren't so close already I would never have heard them. I pulled my mouth close to her ear and whispered in return.

"That's the plan," and I pulled back to look into her eyes, seeing so much warmth and yet, she couldn't hide the hint of disbelief in them either. I needed to remedy that.

Wearing a soft smile on my own face, I looked down at her lips and decided not to wait any longer for our goodnight kiss. Moving my hands to her face slowly, I leaned in, keeping my eyes on hers, before closing them and landing on my target.

The kiss was gentle, but still filled with emotion. It was a heady feeling that fell over us, washing over my body and I didn't want to walk away. The passion was absolutely there, but contained and I had no problem breathing as I cradled her face in my hands, switching from side to side as I caressed her lips, tongue and mouth. This kiss could have lasted for hours, days even, and I wouldn't have minded.

Bella's arms wound around my waist and held onto the back of my shirt lightly, ensuring to keep me tight enough against her body. I would acquiesce and stay touching her as long as she wanted. However, all good things must come to an end.

I started to pull back from our kiss, giving her smaller and shorter kisses on her lips until I pulled back fully. She opened her eyes and stared, what felt like, into my soul.

"Tomorrow can't come soon enough." Her words hit me in the heart. I knew how she felt.

"I feel," I kissed her left cheek. "Exactly," and then her right cheek. "The same," I moved onto her forehead. "Way," and then back to her mouth one more time.

I caressed her cheeks with my thumb as I slowly stepped out of her hold. My hands slid down her neck, to her shoulders and finally down the length of her arms until I was holding on to her hands.

"Will you let me know when you get home? Just so I know you are safe."

"Of course, Bella." Twist my arm that she wanted to hear from again tonight. That was such an easy request for me to accommodate.

With our fingers still intertwined, I gave them one last squeeze before I let them go.

"I'll see you tomorrow," I promised.

"Yeah, see you tomorrow."

We still just stood there, looking at each other. I laughed.

"Bella…get inside. I'm not going to leave until I know you are safe behind that door."

"Alright, alright. I'm going," she grimaced, heading back towards the door. "But don't forget…" she said, whipping herself back around.

"...to text you. I know, sweetheart. I will." The term of endearment slipped out, but it felt right. More than right. And looking at Bella's face, all flushed red, from both the kiss and likely my nickname, I think she enjoyed it too.

She nodded to me as she opened the door, and then with one final look and smile my way, she closed the door behind her. I heard it lock.

I release a heavy breath, feeling a part of myself already missing. Isn't it too soon to feel that way, Edward? I shook my head slightly, as if I was trying to get my bearings, and made my way toward my car. Unlocking and getting inside, I started the car and glanced one last time at Bella's place. It didn't stop that feeling of longing, no matter how short a time we were apart.

I drove away knowing that if I remained any longer, I would be back at her door begging to stay. It may be too early to feel this way, but it wasn't stopping me from feeling it.

I couldn't stop reliving the evening, from the company we had, to the conversations we all enjoyed, to the wonderful food Bella made, to that final sensual kiss. Bella fit into my world, in my group of friends. So did Emmett. So did Angela. It was a great feeling to see my worlds combining, in a way I had never expected, nor originally wanted. I was completely enamored.

I was stopped at a red light when I felt my phone buzz. I hoped it was Bella, even though I told her I would text when I got back to my apartment, but it was Ben instead.

Hey. Thanks again for the invite tonight. You have no idea how much I needed to get out of my apartment and socialize a bit. - BC

I smiled. I'm glad he had a good time, and texted him back as such, receiving a quick reply.

Oh, also, I know I should have done this directly, but what can I say…I chickened out. Do you think you can help me get Angela's number? - BC

Seems like love is in the air for a lot of people. Join the club, buddy!

BPOV

I was still touching my lips as I walked back up the stairs to the second floor landing. I spied Angela pushing the chairs back into the dining table as I approached her. She took in my appearance and smiled.

"Ooof, you've got it bad, girl, don't you?"

"I don't know what you are talking about, Ang." I tried to be cool and nonchalant but my face had always been an open book to her.

"Bella…"

"Fine! I know this is all new, but it's also fast, but I'm not scared about the speed anymore. I almost want everything to be faster. It's too much and not enough at the same time."

"Bella…" I looked into her eyes as she spoke. "You are falling in love with him."

Her tone and words were soft and simple. My eyes nearly popped out of my socket. Not because I didn't believe her. But because I actually did. But if she could see it…could he? I didn't want him scared off by these intense, but too soon, feelings. But I didn't want to fight these feelings. I had to admit wholeheartedly that I was indeed falling for him. Hard and fast.

"It's ok, Bella. This is how it's supposed to happen." I both loved and hated that she could see me freaking out without me opening my mouth, but she always knew what to say to help me calm down. "And no, you shouldn't be ashamed of your feelings or scared or anything other than just enjoy and cherish them."

"You don't think it's too soon?" I questioned.

"Bella, I think it's as fast as it's supposed to be," she said, giving me an encouraging smile. "Besides, from the way he looks at you, he's right there with you."

"You think?"

"Yes, I do. Enjoy it, Bella. Don't worry so much."

I walked over to Angela and gave her a big hug. She really was the best and I'm so grateful to have her in my life.

"I'm going to go see what's left to do in the kitchen," I said, heading in that direction.

"The guys did a good job. I think only the roasting pan is left and that is soaking," Angela called to me.

As I walked through the door to the kitchen, I took in the space. Angela was right, the guys did a great job. The counters appeared to have been wiped down, the plates had been washed and put away. I also appreciated that the guys had tied up the trash bag and replaced it with a new one in the trash can. I would take the full bag to the bin in the morning.

The roasting pan was in the sink, but I would let it continue to soak overnight. It didn't really need to, but Edward was right. I was tired, and the pan was something that could wait.

It was nice to have the kitchen taken care of for the most part. I wouldn't have minded cleaning up after everyone left, but it was a nice way to end the evening without having to do that.

The thought of the evening coming to an end brought thoughts of Edward back to the forefront of my mind. I missed him already.

With a soft sigh, I turned off the lights on the way out of the kitchen, checking to see that Angela was done in the dining room, and made my way to my room. As I headed up the flight of stairs to the third level and onto the landing, I could see that the light was on in Angela's room. I could hear her moving about behind her door as I approached it in the hallway.

Knocking softly, I called out to her my "goodnight."

"Goodnight, Bella! See you in the morning," her voice replied, muffled through the door.

I smiled and continued down the hall to my room.

As I entered, I turned on the lights and shut the door behind me, leaning my back against it. Everything was just as I left it before I had returned to Forks. The rented furniture was exactly in its place, bed made, a few knick-knacks on the dresser, but it felt empty.

The townhouse felt empty. I was thrilled I could share this space with Angela while I was in town, but having everyone over for dinner filled the place with laughter and conversation already made me miss having company.

I've always been content being alone and I've never felt lonely, but one night with this group made me realize how lonely I've been. I couldn't wait to have more interactions with them all.

And while I missed them all, I mainly missed him.

I had never had him in my bedroom here, but remembering Edward in my childhood room in Forks this past weekend fueled the wish he was here now. That's why it felt empty. It was missing something, or rather, someone. Pushing away from the closed door, I walked over to the window and looked out into the night sky. I couldn't see much with the light reflecting off the window pane, but I could still see the outlines of the other townhomes and lights from the city in the distance.

I glanced a look down and chuckled to myself, knowing, or hoping, Edward would never attempt to climb up to her room here. He'd break his neck!

The wave of exhaustion from the day finally hit me as I slumped down to sit on the bed. I pulled my phone out of my back pocket and saw no text messages, so now was as good a time as any to get into my nighttime routine.

Picking up my pajamas, I shuffled into the attached bathroom. I turned on the shower, deciding that after the day of travel and rehearsal, it was probably the best idea. I stripped out of my clothes, threw them in the hamper, then stepped under the hot water.

I was starting to run on autopilot, pulling my strawberry shampoo from the ledge and mindlessly applying it to my head. One handed showering was tricky, but not impossible. I had in fact done it before. Once I rinsed it out, I repeated the steps with my conditioner. The fresh smell woke me up a little, but the lavender body wash I moved onto next helped relax me again. It was probably good that I decided on a shower and not a bath. I think I would have fallen asleep in the tub.

I shut off the water and grabbed the towel on the back of the door. Careful to step out of the shower, I wrapped the towel around my body and moved over to the sink. The steam had covered my mirror, but I didn't mind. Nothing to see there anyway.

Before I moved on to brushing my teeth or getting dressed, I pulled the old wrap around my hand and replaced it with a new one. Once that was secure, I moved on to the clothes. I was still slightly damp, so the cloth clung to me uncomfortably. I knew it would lessen once out of the humid bathroom. I brushed my hair and then my teeth, hung up the towel, and opened the bathroom door, stepping back into my room.

The clinging clothing almost immediately stopped as I walked over the bedside table where I had left my phone. I had a new text message.

Hey! Made it home safely. I missed you the moment you were out of my arms. - E

Such a sweet talker. My heart started beating twice as fast. Doesn't mean any less to me. I checked the time stamp and it was sent only 5 minutes ago.

Hey you! Sorry, I was shower, but I'm glad you made it back! - B

Edward responded with an emoji with the eyes popped open.

What? - B

You. Shower. Mhjkhjkjlk. - E

I laughed. I didn't think he'd take it that way, but I'm certainly not upset that he's having a reaction.

Well, to change the subject, you know, to help you out, I know the feeling about "missing me" as I'm missing you too. - B

I blushed reminiscing that exact feeling of being in his arms maybe half an hour ago. He responded with a heart and continued.

The meal was delicious, Bella. Thank you for hosting. -E

As I said, it was my pleasure. I love to cook, which I think you know by now. - B

And I love to eat your food, especially when there are no trips to the ER because of it. - E

He sent an emoji with a wink and its tongue out and I knew he was teasing me. I chuckled in response and laughed back at him.

On another note, there's apparently been a development that I am hoping you can help me with, but we can discuss it tomorrow. I do want you to get some sleep. - E

That made me curious.

Is everything ok? - B

Oh yeah, no issues. It's just something you might find entertaining. - E

Now I'm intrigued. - B

Ha! I'm glad. But for now, we'll wait until tomorrow. I'm struggling to keep my eyes open as it is and I can only imagine it's the same for you. - E

He had hit the nail on the head. I could feel my head drooping even as I typed.

Yeah, you are right. I know I'll be out before my head hits the pillow. - B

I'm right behind you. - E

The thought of him literally being right behind me, spooning me in my bed, certainly perked me up a bit, but not enough to shake the sleep. However, I knew it would give me something to think about as I drifted off to sleep.

Thank you for letting me know you made it safely. I'll see you tomorrow. Sweet dreams. - B

They will be…they'll be of you. Good night. - E

Smooth talker.

I smirked as I shut my light off and I was asleep before I knew it.

The dinner party ended well! What do we think?