Title: Entrapment
Summary: For Bella Swan, desperate times call for desperate measures. For Edward Cullen, family is everything.
Pairing: Bella & Edward
Rating: M
Word Count: 12357
DISCLAIMER: Twilight and its inclusive material is copyright to Stephenie Meyer. Original creation, including but not limited to plot and characters, is copyright to the respective authors of each story. No copyright infringement is intended.
Somewhere in Seattle, in a private room at an exclusive club, a connected man makes a point to someone who crossed him ...
"Take him away, Jasper. I'll deal with it later," the bronzed haired man says, his voice void of any emotion.
Anyone with any sense knew better than to mess with the Cullen Family
This business, his family's business, was forever at the forefront of his mind day in and day out. All he wanted was some clarity … a link to someone and something that wasn't connected to the family. His life was unsettled and in limbo. He was twenty-eight years old now, and he needed more. Edward Cullen wanted something to believe in.
Taking a deep breath, he composed himself to return to the girl he left waiting at the bar … maybe tonight would be the night. He had a good feeling, a sense of peace he couldn't quite explain.
From a very early age, I had my life planned out ahead of me. You know, the typical sort of things most girls dream of ... going off to college, graduating, traveling to many of the places I longed to visit before finding a job I loved. I wasn't exactly sure when, but somewhere along the way, I'd find Mr. Right. We would fall madly in love, marry, and have children.
Unfortunately, life never did quite follow my carefully thought out plan, and here I am, twenty- eight years old, single, with no sign of Mr. Right sweeping me off my feet.
The truth is, I've never had a good record with guys. I'm the polar opposite of my mother – a woman who slept her way through half the town before she eventually skipped town for good when I was six months old. Last I heard, Renee was about to marry husband number five. Her escapades are legendary, which is perhaps why I am more selective and reluctant to settle with just about anybody.
In high school, I steered clear of boys and them me. It wasn't that I was ugly, but I sure wasn't beautiful either. I was just normal, plain, and boring Bella. It didn't help matters that I was shy, awkward, and ridiculously clumsy. Guys just didn't fawn over me like they did my best friends, Rosalie or Angela, and it wasn't until college when I actually started dating.
Unfortunately, most of the men or perhaps the word boys is a better way to describe them, only brought more hassle than joy, and I became bored with the whole dating scene very quickly. In the meantime, I focused on school and getting a good job while waiting for Mr. Right to appear. Sure, I still went out on the odd date every once in a while, when Angela was busy playing matchmaker, but nothing ever developed from them.
And as time passed, I started to feel more despondent about my chances of settling down and starting the family I had always longed for. Recently, I'd been re-evaluating my life or lack thereof. After losing my father a few years ago, I had very little family left. While I had a good job and a few equally brilliant friends, I was alone and missing out on the one thing I truly wanted more than anything else in the world: a child of my own.
I'd always wanted to start a family early, but sadly, I'd never even come close to having that. In recent months I'd even stepped up my efforts to find a man. I'd been on six dates in the last month alone, but I ended up dissatisfied and frustrated by the outcome. It was a case of one disastrous date after another, and after the latest in a long list of awful once, I vowed that enough was enough.
Instead, I started planning for a future alone.
Who needs a man anyway?
In my quest to start a family, I looked into adoption as one option, which was nearly impossible with my current single status. Then there was the possibility of using a sperm donor, but that seemed way too clinical for my liking. In the end, desperate times call for desperate measures, which led me to today's shocking revelation to my best friends.
"Look, I know this is extreme, but I've thought it through, and I think I'm ready to have a child," I explained.
Half of the time, I had to fight to get a word in with my outspoken friends, but they stayed silent and stared at me as if I had grown two heads when I came to the end of my announcement.
However, it wasn't long before Rosalie, the more outspoken of the two, found her voice. "You have got to be fucking kidding me!" She practically spat out her drink.
I turned to Angela for help, but she remained unusually quiet, her mouth hanging open in a giant 'O.'
"Please say something, Ang," I begged as the silence became deafening.
"I can't, Bella," she paused, seemingly struggling for words for the first time in our friendship. "This is just too weird, even for me."
"It's official; you have finally lost your freaking mind." Rosalie interrupted. I could always count on her to speak her mind.
"Rose," Angela warned, but Rosalie soon silenced her.
"It's true! I love you, Bella, you know that, but somebody needs to talk some sense into you," she said before glaring across at Angela. "You know you think this is just as fucked up as I do. Don't even try and deny it."
"It's what I want," I justified, trying to get a word in before either of them could try and talk me out of it.
"Look, I get it, Bella. I know you're desperate to have a family, but why not go about it the way most normal people do? You know, find a guy, fall in love, and then have plenty of babies."
Angela made it sound so simple.
"I've tried, you know I have. Just look at the number of disastrous dates I've gone on this month alone," I defended
"So, what's the rush? There are plenty more guys out there. There's this new guy who started at work just last week. He'd be perfect for you." She started to suggest before I cut her off.
"Please, no more!" I begged, throwing my hands up in the air. I knew Angela was trying to help, but she just didn't understand. It was easy for her, having met her husband in high school, and they'd been inseparable ever since. Unfortunately, it wasn't so easy for me, and I told them as much.
"It's okay for you because you have Ben. It's never been like that for me," I sighed disheartened. "Maybe you're right, maybe I am being rash, but maybe I'm fed up waiting for Mr. Right to come along when the only thing I'm destined for is one bad date after another."
"That's not true," Angela said with conviction.
"Isn't it?" I only had to think of last month's bad dates as an example. "What about Peter, the guy who was more interested in the waitress serving us than me?"
"Peter was an idiot," Rosalie interrupted.
"And Eric, the guy who discovered his long- lost love the day after our date?"
"That's his loss, not yours. Besides, you didn't like him that much in the first place," Angela argued.
"And James?" He was my last boyfriend, and things had seemed to be going pretty well until I found out he was sleeping with one of the girls from his office behind my back.
"He's a dickhead!" Rosalie shouted.
"How about Paul or Sam. I rest my case. Do you know what it's like going on one disastrous date to the next? It sucks!" I whined.
"I'm tired of the dating scene. I'm tired of trying to find a nice boyfriend, of being disappointed when it never works out. But most of all, I'm tired of being alone. There's no one out there for me, I've accepted that and I'm ready to make a future on my own."
"You can't give up on love, Bella." Angela, ever the romantic pointed out. She squeezed my hand and offered me an encouraging smile. "For all you know, the perfect guy for you could be right around the corner."
"You're only twenty-eight-years old, not fifty! There's plenty of time for you to find a man. Why are you so desperate for this now?" Rosalie asked.
"I'm tired of waiting. Besides, I have my own house, a decent job, and I can support myself. Why wait?"
"A baby isn't the answer to loneliness, Bella," Rosalie said abruptly.
"I know that! I don't want a baby because I'm lonely. I've dreamed of having a child for so long; you know that. I want this so much it hurts, and if I wait around forever, I will be too late."
"It's a big step, Bella. We're just worried you haven't thought this through properly." Angela said in a gentle voice.
"I have, I've thought of nothing else. I didn't just dream this scheme up yesterday. I've been considering my options for a long time. You know how much I want a child," I justified.
Why couldn't they see it from my point of view? Why couldn't they understand this wasn't just some crazy whim of an idea?
"Isn't there another less dramatic way to go about it?" Angela tactfully tried to say, while Rosalie scoffed in the background.
"Yeah, do a Brangelina, and adopt a kid, or better yet, ask that dog Jake to help you out. He may be a complete idiot, but you'd make pretty babies," she said, trying to make light of the situation. Jake had been a close friend of mine ever since we were toddlers, but the prospect of having him father my child was something I could never consider.
"Ewwww. I could never have sex with him." I felt sick just thinking about Jake in that way. He was more like a brother to me.
"And adoption is out of the question. I've looked into it. It's so complicated, and on my own, it would be nearly impossible. Besides, as selfish as it sounds, I want my own child, a part of me, you know?"
"Well, aren't you forgetting something?" Rosalie said, she sent me a stern look, and I knew a lecture was coming.
"Because unless you've forgotten to tell us something pretty fucking important, you're a virgin Bella! How do you plan on giving it up? You think you can handle meaningless sex with a random stranger and walk away?"
"Yes, I can," I replied more confidently than I actually felt.
The truth was, I was terrified. It was a known fact that Bella Swan never did anything irrational or reckless, which was probably why my best friends were so shocked by my decision to have a one- night stand in the hopes of getting pregnant. However, no matter how ridiculous my plan sounded, I had thought it through. I wanted a child and was willing to do anything to get it, including giving up my virginity in the process.
"You said it yourself; I'm a twenty-eight-year-old virgin; it doesn't get more desperate than that," I said, blushing and avoiding both of their gazes.
"But you've waited so long. I thought you always wanted to save yourself for marriage?" Angela pondered. I glanced up, and she looked so sad that I thought she was going to burst into tears any at any minute.
"Things change, Ang, and some things are more important. I'm willing to sacrifice my virginity for a baby." I shrugged it off like it was no big deal. I don't think I pulled it off.
"I've been there, Bella. Take it from me; one-night stands are nowhere near as exciting as they sound. Are you really so desperate for a child that you are willing to give your virginity to some random stranger?" Rosalie probed.
I started to reply, but she cut me off.
"And what if it doesn't happen the first time? It's not like the movies. You won't get knocked up the first time you try. How many guys are you willing to do it with before you give up? And let's say you do go through with this madness and by some chance you are pregnant. What happens afterward? Raising a child is hard enough with two parents, let alone on your own. Do you think you'll be able to cope?"
"You guys know me better than anyone. I can do this," I said with conviction, but neither of them looked convinced. "Look, I know it is going to take you some time to come to terms with, but this is what I want more than anything else in the world. Please say you will support me?" I begged.
"You don't even have to ask us that silly," they both said in unison. They pulled me towards them in an instant and hugged me so tightly I thought I might bruise.
"You're our best friend, Bella. We'll always support you in whatever you decide," Angela said easily.
"That doesn't mean we aren't going to try and talk you out of this madness," Rosalie muttered, though I'm sure she meant for me to hear.
I didn't doubt her warning, but regardless, I felt a massive burden off my shoulders now that I'd told my friends of my intentions.
Now comes the hardest part; following through with my plan...
True to her word, Rosalie spent the next few weeks trying to talk me out of my madness as she called it. I understood her concerns. I knew what I was planning was insane, but I was determined. I knew what I wanted, and I was willing to do absolutely anything to get it.
Of course, that doesn't mean I wasn't anxious, nervous, terrified even, but I was so desperate that I began finalizing some of the details.
Although Angela and Rose had their reservations, they both came around and promised to support me in any way they could. Rosalie had even insisted on helping me choose the right location for finding my 'baby daddy' as she had taken to calling him. She insisted if I was going to go through with my 'crazy plan,' then she was vetting any potential candidates. It sounded so clinical, but I was glad she was at least coming round to the idea.
We had checked into a hotel in Seattle for the weekend to execute the plan.
Getting ready, I tried to think of it as just another night out, but underneath my bravado, I was terrified I'd ruin it. I'd never been one to wear too much makeup, so I happily let my girls help me get ready. When I looked in the mirror, I was amazed at who was looking back at me. My long brown hair was hanging down in shiny loose curls while I had smoky eyes and red lips. Angela let me borrow one of her dresses: a beautiful, black skin-tight dress that came to mid-thigh. It was classy, not trashy, and while it showed a sufficient amount of cleavage, it was nothing too scandalous and did not scream, desperate.
I was quiet and shy by nature, so I tended to avoid clubs altogether. However, there was a new club that had recently opened in the heart of the city, and the few reviews I'd read sounded promising, so we decided to start there.
It almost didn't feel real as we were in a taxi on our way. As we drove through downtown Seattle, I could feel my nerves building.
"Are you sure about this? You're looking kinda green," Rose asked beside me, no doubt picking up on my uncertainty. "There's still time to change your mind, you know." She made one last-ditch attempt to persuade me to reconsider.
"I'm sure. This is what I want." I insisted but inside I wasn't so sure. I couldn't help questioning if I was doing the right thing. I'd barely slept the night before with worry over my actions.
Was it fair to use someone for my own selfish reasons?
Absolutely not!
However, I reasoned the outcome was worth the devious means.
Thankfully I didn't have any longer to ponder the selfishness of my actions because the taxi pulled up outside our destination.
It was nice to be back in Seattle. Sometimes the girls and I would visit for the weekend where we would reminisce about our college days, or just have a break from our mundane life in Forks.
Seattle is a world away from Forks. It almost feels like a different universe. The streets are so busy here and full of people chatting and having a good time. Everyone is in a rush, and there's the constant noise of cars honking and people yelling. One thing that doesn't differ is the weather, and there is quite a nip in the air. I wrapped my jacket around me a little tighter as we joined the already long que outside the club.
While we wait in line, I must admit I am curious to see what all the fuss is about. It's only nine o'clock, but there is already a pretty decent crowd waiting outside, which bodes well for it being a fun night. As we get closer to the front, the noise gets louder. It must be absolutely packed inside.
Thankfully the line seems to be steadily moving along, and we nudge closer to the main entrance. While we are waiting, the purr of an engine catches my attention, and I turn to see an expensive car pull up right outside the club. I've never been very fond of extravagant cars until I glance up and see the most incredible looking man I've ever seen in my life.
Heading towards the doormen, he makes the type of confident entrance that makes most people stop what they're doing and glance his way. You'd think he stepped out of GQ or some equally glamorous magazine.
Now don't get me wrong, I've seen plenty of handsome men before, but this guy is something else.
I'd never had such a strong reaction to a guy. He was undeniably stunning!
He was tall, comfortably over six feet, with a perfectly chiseled jaw, a long straight nose, and the most perfect pink lips that were turned up into the sexiest, crooked half-smile.
His hair is the most unusual shade of brown, with a hint of bronze and is styled into the most perfectly chaotic mess. The clothes he wore only served to highlight his amazing body. He was wearing a gray, long-sleeved shirt, tailored, and no doubt ridiculously expensive if the perfect fit was any indication. The dark wash jeans he wore clung to his body in all the right places.
There was something about him that made him stand out from the crowd, and it wasn't just because of his superior good looks; the way he walked … the way he carried himself that made me think he was powerful and important.
Looking at him, I immediately knew he was the perfect candidate for my plan.
There was only one problem...
He was way out of my league. Even Rosalie would struggle to catch his attention, and she could have her pick of any man she wanted.
"He's got potential," Angela said, echoing my earlier thoughts.
I nodded back; my mouth suddenly dry as I watched him make his way over to the entrance, completely bypassing the line and making straight for the doorman. I can't take my eyes off him as he stops, and for a few seconds, they talk before doing that ridiculous, half hug, half handshake thing men do before the tape is drawn back, and he is let through. Yes, I'd say he was a regular.
"No offense, Bells, but he'd eat you for breakfast," Rose said beside me.
I jump, color flooding my cheeks as I turn to find her looking at me quizzically. I didn't realize I had been so obvious, and I was mortified at being caught out.
"Rosalie!" Angela exclaimed, but I wasn't offended. After all, she was only saying what I had thought. The truth is, I needed to be more realistic in my hunt for the father of my child.
Still, that didn't mean I couldn't admire him from afar, and I watched captivated as his eyes briefly scanned the line before settling on me.
My breath hitches and the heat rises to my face at being caught. I tell myself to stop looking, but I can't tear my eyes away from him, no matter how hard I try.
I vaguely register Rosalie laughing beside me, probably at my starstruck expression, but I am too focused on the god in front of me to care. My heart is going wild. I can feel it beating against my ribcage as I stand there transfixed.
The doorman says something to him, and he shakes his head, not even bothering to look away from me, and his perfect lips turn up into that crooked half-smile that is quickly becoming my undoing. He lifts an eyebrow to go with his smirk, and that's when I finally look away.
Embarrassed, I feel my cheeks burning at being caught blatantly staring, and I glance away quickly, trying to ignore the thumping of my heart.
"God, help you. You can't even look at a guy without blushing. What the hell will you be like trying to seduce one?" Rosalie jokes and my heart sinks a little.
I don't know what I was thinking.
He's exactly the type of man I've always stayed away from; too handsome, too sexy, too mysterious.
He's undeniably way out of my league
I'm just Bella...
Kind, reliable, dependable, responsible Bella
Girls like me just don't attract guys like him, but for once, I wished it could be different.
Maybe I was overreacting, but Rosalie's comments touched a nerve, and I was on the verge of putting a stop to my crazy scheme when she pulled me back.
"Shit! Sorry, Bella. I was only joking; I didn't mean it," she apologized.
"No, it's okay, you're right. I don't know what I was thinking. This is such a ridiculous idea. " I said, stepping out of line and looking around for a taxi before she dragged me back.
"No way! We're going nowhere." Rose asserted. "You want to do this. We've planned this for how long? Besides, that hottie was definitely checking you out," she told me.
"Yeah, whatever," I said dismissively. "You don't have to say that to make me feel better."
"It's true," Angela quickly agreed. "If you hadn't been too busy looking at your shoes, you would have noticed him almost walking into the door as he tried to get a better look at you. You need to be more observant," she sniggered.
As much as I appreciated my friends' kind words, I didn't believe them.
"Besides, we're here now, we may as well see what all the fuss is about," Angela sounded upbeat, and she did have a point.
"Okay, we'll see what it's like … but if it's rubbish, we're not staying long," I agreed.
Once we eventually made it inside the building, we headed straight for the bar. While the bartender prepared our drinks, I glanced around the room and took in the scene around me. The noise inside the club is loud, and the room is packed full of people dancing around like lunatics and having a great time. The thumping beat of the music is slightly overpowering, and the strobing lights irritate my eyes, but I try to appear like I'm enjoying myself.
I'm here for a reason, and I intend to follow through with my plan.
After we got our drinks, we found a spot on the edge of the dance floor. Being three, two, reasonably attractive women and one bombshell, we received a fair amount of male attention. While it was flattering, no one held my attention for too long, and the girls didn't seem particularly keen on any of the guys who'd come over either.
Looking around the room, there was an abundance of men to choose from, but sadly, none of them caught my eye the way the hunk from earlier had. I kept casting a glance around the room, but I can't help the deep disappointment I feel tears welling up inside me when there's no sign of him anywhere.
Perhaps he already left? Or worse still, he's with another girl? Men like him didn't stay single for long. He probably had a stunning girlfriend or a glamorous wife waiting for him at home.
This is ridiculous, I tell myself. I am getting jealous over a man I've not even spoken to.
I need to pull myself together, but no matter how many times I tell myself to move on and focus my attention on someone new, my eyes automatically drift around the room in search of him.
Then, just when I'd given up hope on seeing him again, there he is...
He's at the far side of the room in what I can only assume is the VIP section given the luxurious setting. There's a private bar, plus waiters circulating with champagne—the full works.
It shouldn't have surprised me. The way he carried himself screamed money and power, and I can't help but be drawn toward him.
By the looks of it, I'm not alone in my fascination. Several women try to catch his eye, yet he seems unimpressed by their advances. That shouldn't have pleased me as much as it does.
Realizing I am staring yet again, I tell myself to stop looking. Turning my attention back to my girls, I listen half-heartedly as they gush over the venue, but it doesn't take long before my curiosity gets the better of me, and my eyes revert back to him.
This time he has company. The man he is with is equally striking and just as intriguing. He's huge, and has the heavy build of a rugby player, not an ounce of fat on him, just big and almost savage looking. Despite his intimidating physique, he is very attractive, with curly brown hair and dimples, but he holds nothing on the bronze haired man. He seems to find whatever the handsome man is saying pretty amusing because he throws his head back in laughter at something Mr. Hottie said.
Then suddenly, he lifts his eyes as if they are drawn to me.
I can't contain my gasp.
Time stops, and the room is empty except for the two of us. Our eyes lock on each other from the opposite side of the venue. I forget all about why I am here. I forget about my friends who stood right beside me. I forget about everything except for the fact that he's the most handsome man I have ever seen.
I should probably look away.
But I can't.
I'm trapped, held in his penetrating gaze.
And then he smiles. And not just any smile- a beautiful, heart-stopping smile that makes my heart flutter and my knees weak. His eyes hold mine for what feels like a lifetime, and I can't control the ridiculously wide smile that spreads across my own face. He seems to be as enthralled as I am. Then, out of nowhere, his expression suddenly turns hostile. He looks genuinely angry, though I can't for the life of me understand what I have done to provoke such a reaction in him or offend him so much.
Puzzled, I drag my gaze away from him and take a large gulp of my drink. At that exact moment, I feel a gentle tap on my arm. I turn around half expecting to see the unamused faces of my friends, but I'm instead met with a man I've never seen before. He's cute, in an all-American college boy kind of way, but he holds nothing to the guy I was just eye fucking across the room.
"Hey, I'm Mike," he introduces himself. "What's your name, pretty lady?" he says in a way I'm sure is meant to be alluring but really isn't. The delivery was so lame and so unconvincing that I laughed. I can't help myself, and I quickly give him the brush off. With Mike gone, I turn around in search of the hottle from earlier. I'm scanning the room for him, but I can't see him anywhere.
Deflated, I return and try to force him out of my mind. The girls are a great help, distracting me and returning my attention to the reason we are here in the first place. When Rosalie asks if I've seen any potentials, I'm too embarrassed to admit that apart from the bronzed haired god, I've not even given anyone else a thought.
Despite my earlier reservations about the club, it has a great atmosphere, and I can see why it is so popular. It's getting busier by the second. Even at our spot on the far side of the dance floor is starting to get a little crowded. When someone bumps into me for the third time in as many minutes, I'm about ready to move to somewhere less crowded before Angela stops me with a knowing grin.
My eyebrows shoot up.
"What?" I look at her questioningly.
Angela's delighted smile is the only warning of what's to come.
I smell his cologne before anything else. He smells sweet and spicy at the same time, nothing like those strong and overpowering cheap colognes some men find appealing.
"Hello, ladies," said a smooth voice from behind. It sends a shiver down my spine.
For some reason, the hottie from earlier pops into my mind. I can't explain it.
Wishful thinking, perhaps?
I'm desperate for it to be him. A part of me doesn't want to turn around and get my hopes up, only to be disappointed if it isn't, but Angela's wide smile gives me reason to be hopeful.
I turn slowly and then freeze.
It's him!
My body tenses and I can't see anything but him.
If I thought he was handsome from a distance, up close, he's deadly.
He epitomizes masculine perfection, all six foot one of him. Up close, I am able to get a better look at those high cheekbones and a perfectly square-cut jaw. He has the most unbelievably gorgeous, emerald green eyes I've ever seen. I gaze into them, and I feel my skin start to flush under the heat of his gaze.
"Do I know you?" he asked, tilting his head slightly and licking his lip.
His words almost don't register, because I'm too busy staring at his lips, which is a big mistake because one glance at his mouth and I'm wondering how he kisses.
What the hell?
As he watches me, a subtle smile plays on his lips, and I stand there transfixed. I feel like we are standing there forever, staring, until Angela clears her throat, drawing me out of my lust-filled haze
"No, I don't think so," I reply. My voice sounds hoarse, but, luckily, I got any words out without stuttering.
"I'm Edward Cullen," he introduces himself. He raises his hand towards me, and I feel a thrill go right through me when I slip mine into his. My whole body buzzes from the moment his hand touches mine. We stay like that for a second before I realize he is waiting for me to respond.
"Bella," I reply.
"It's nice to meet you, Bella," I force myself to ignore how lovely my name sounds from his lips.
He's still holding my hand for a few seconds, certainly longer than necessary before his fingers slip away. "You ladies are not from around here," he correctly guessed. "I've not seen you before," he adds, his eyes only on me.
"No, we're not." I need to pull myself together and expand beyond short answers before he gets bored and moves on. Thankfully Edward is smiling. He's probably used to women falling at his feet, but reassuringly, he doesn't seem smug about it.
"Can I get you ladies, a drink?"
Rosalie interrupts before I have a chance to accept his offer. "No, thank you," she smiles sweetly back at Edward while I glare across at her, sending her a look that says … what the hell is your problem!
Before I can contradict her, she quickly adds, "Ang are I are going to go dance, but you'll keep Bella company, right?" My frown quickly morphs into a wide smile at her quick thinking.
"It would be my pleasure," Edward smiles, and I'm done for.
They don't hang around, and they are already making their way towards the overcrowded dance floor before Rosalie turns back to us. "Look after her," she instructs Edward.
"I'll try," he responds with a laugh.
"See ya later, Bella," Angela adds. She winks at me before slipping through the crowd.
With my friends gone, I expect to feel nervous now that I'm alone with Edward, except the opposite is true. The smile he sends my way both calms my nerves and excites me. I can't explain it, but there's something about him that puts me at ease right away.
"Are you sure you don't want to join your friends?" Edward asks.
"Absolutely not," I reply. It's a little-known fact that I'm a terrible dancer and would do anything to avoid it. I don't want to scare Edward away so quickly.
The club is getting busier and busier all around us, and when I narrowly avoid getting a drink thrown over me, I'm relieved when Edward suggests we move to somewhere less crowded. "Do you want to go someplace quieter?" he asks.
"Sure," I gratefully agree.
Edward flashes me another one of those devastating smiles of his and proceeds to lead me away from the masses. He's a good six inches taller than most people, but he slides through the crowd easily. It's like they part around him. A few people nod as we pass, while others eagerly step out of our way in such a fashion that makes me convinced, he's some sort of celebrity. We bypass the bar and head towards the VIP section, where I'd spotted him earlier.
VIP means girls, girls, and more girls. I feel myself tense, and I can't miss the envious glances I'm on the receiving end of. Almost as if he sensed I am uncomfortable by the attention our arrival has caused, Edward guides us towards one of the booths in the far corner of the room, which offers us more privacy from prying eyes.
Our drinks appear immediately before we are even seated. Our server is both welcoming and polite as she places two champagne flutes on our table and immediately begins to fill our glasses.
"Good evening, Mr. Cullen," she greets him. "It's nice to see you tonight."
Clearly, Edward is a regular judging by her familiar greeting. When she turns her attention to me, she is nothing but friendly and warm. Her smile is genuine as she introduces herself.
"My name is Bree, and I'll be your server tonight. Do not hesitate to contact me if you need anything."
"I think we're good for now. Thank you, Bree," Edward replies before turning his attention back to me.
"Is champagne, okay?" He asks. I smile back, thrilled by the unexpected direction the night has taken. Never in a million years would I have imagined I would end up in the VIP section of the club, let alone getting to know the handsome man in front of me.
"Champagne is wonderful," I beam. "I've never been in the VIP section before," I admit.
"In that case, I think we should make a toast," Edward says as he hands me a champagne flute. "To new experiences," he holds his glass up to me.
"New experience," I respond, before clicking our glasses together and taking a sip.
"So, are you having a good night so far?" he asks.
"To be honest, I'm not usually a fan of these sorts of places, but I'm having a great night," I admit. There's something about Edward that makes me open up without hesitation, which is weird because I barely even know him.
"Oh really," he looks amused like he's fighting a smile. "Well, I'm glad to hear that. The owner prides himself on making sure all his customers are having a good night," he smirks.
"You know the owner?" I ask, sensing I'm missing something.
"Bella, I am the owner; this is my club."
"Yours?" I looked at him stupidly. "You own this place?" No wonder the hostess knew him!
"Yes, I do. Clearly, that surprises you." He observes.
"It's very impressive. So what is it like running the club?" I question. I find myself fascinated, wanting to know all about him.
"Trust me; it's not as glamorous as you'd think. I have several business interests I split my time between, and this is just one of them." The way Edward talks is very matter-of-fact, he's not bragging.
"Such as?" I prompt.
"Just this and that … nothing for you to worry about."
He's being evasive, and something in his eyes is telling me not to ask too many questions. But that only makes me want to know more about him. Unfortunately, Edward has other ideas.
"I think you've heard more than enough about me. Tell me more about yourself?" He grins, back to his normal open self.
I almost choke. This beautiful man wants to know about me. He's staring at me with those penetrating green eyes of his, and it takes me a moment to reply.
"Well, this will be a short conversation because I'm not that exciting," I say, after taking another sip of my drink.
"Let me be the judge of that," Edward insists.
And so, I start by telling him all about my comparatively boring life. About growing up in a small town not far from Port Angeles. My friendships with Angela and Rose and how we met at school and how our friendships solidified when we headed off to college here in Seattle. I tell him about the things I'm passionate about most, my love of literature, which steers us towards my job as a freelance writer, which I love, and the freedom that working for myself brings. I briefly touched upon the death of my father, Charlie, a few years ago, and how I lost touch with Mom when I was an infant.
As I continue, he doesn't lose interest. If anything, he wants to know more. He asks me about my family, what I studied at college, about my favorite books and hobbies.
After I've given Edward a brief rundown of my life, I'm even more desperate to know more about him. I tried many times to turn the conversation back, but he was adept at deflecting- never revealing too much about himself. So far, I've learned that he's a businessman and has a large extended family. I know his favorite movies, the variety of music he listens to, what food he loves, that he has lived in the city all his life, and like me, he is twenty-eight.
As the drinks flow, so does our conversation. Edward has such an easy manner about him, and I enjoy his company immensely. It's not just about how attractive he is, either. Although it doesn't help his charm. He's so engaging. He listens, really listens to what I'm saying and asks questions, and wants to know more about me. It doesn't feel awkward or forced. It just feels natural, and I don't remember the last time I felt like that with another person, let alone a man. It feels as though we've known each other forever, and we're just comfortable in each other's company.
I lose track of time when I'm with Edward; so much so that I've barely even given my friends a second thought. I feel bad for ditching them, but every time I look over, they are either too busy having fun on the dance floor to notice me. And when they do catch my eye, they merely smile encouragingly and give me the thumbs-up, and I return my attention to Edward.
We've just finished discussing my pretty much nonexistent relationship with my mother when I turn the conversation back to him.
"Enough about my erratic mother," I try to sound lighthearted. "Tell me about your parents? I bet they must be proud of you having already achieved so much at such a young age." I compliment.
I realize I've said the wrong thing the minute the question leaves my lips. Edward's eyes meet mine briefly before he shakes his head from side to side. He doesn't say anything, but when he lifts his face to mine, I can see the pain in his eyes.
"I'm sure they would be," he says after a lengthy pause. There's a gritty edge to his voice I haven't heard before, and it takes me a moment for his words to sink in.
"Unfortunately, they both passed away many years ago."
I open my mouth to say something, anything, but nothing comes out. "I'm so sorry, Edward," I say when I finally find my voice. Tentatively, I reach for his hand, gently taking it in mine. He sends me a small smile in return before closing his hand over mine.
"It was a very long time ago." There's a finality in his word, and I can tell he doesn't want to talk about it anymore. I want to ask him about his parents, ask about his life, how they died, but something in Edward has shut down, and I know not to push.
When our server comes over to top up our drinks, I welcome the distraction.
Thankfully the tension from before is long forgotten as we move our discussion away from his parents. Time flies by in Edward's presence, and before I know it, Rose and Ang come over to tell me they are heading back to the hotel. It's only then I realize how late it is. Once they are sure I am okay on my own, we say our goodbyes, and I return to my seat besides Edward. We continue to talk about everything and anything, drifting closer together as the evening draws on. We are close together now, his face only a few inches away from my own. It is much closer than we've been all night. I feel a flutter of anticipation in my chest when Edward takes my glass out of my hand and places it on the table. He seems to be debating something before he leans forward slightly. He looks down at my lips, and I can't help but lick mine in anticipation.
He's gonna kiss me, I know it.
However, before I can find out if that was his intention, I hear someone clear their throat beside us, and Edward's' face morphs into one of anger as he pulls away from me.
"Can I have a word, Mr. Cullen?" says a heavily accented voice that I can't place. Russian, perhaps? No, it's definitely Eastern European.
While I am disappointed, Edward looks positively furious at the interruption. "Not now, Demetri," he says in a low, menacing tone before turning his attention back to me.
"We wouldn't bother you unless it were unavoidable," The guy doesn't know when to quit. Edward shakes his head, his eyes showing his disapproval. "Business always business," he murmurs under his breath. His eyes are still locked on mine.
"It won't take more than a few minutes." Something in the man's tone makes Edward turn. The two of them share a look, and something seems to pass between them because when he looks back at me, his expression is apologetic.
"Go ahead, I'm good here," I encourage, sensing the conversation is an important one.
"Thank you, Bella; this won't take very long. I'll be right back," he dipped his head to brush the lightest of kisses on my cheek before standing. They spoke in hushed voices before walking to a room I'd not noticed before, labeled private. Was it my imagination, or did the man who'd interrupted us seem a little uptight, anxious?
While Edward is gone, I turn my attention to the dance floor where people are dancing away to the beat of a familiar song. For once, I wished I wasn't such a terrible dancer because I would love to dance with Edward. I smile at the thought. I'm so caught up in my daydream that I don't notice Edward has returned until he's right behind me.
"You don't dance?" A familiar husky voice suddenly interrupted my thoughts.
"No, I'm afraid not. Being both uncoordinated and clumsy mean, I tend to avoid the dance floor at all costs." I joke. Unfortunately, my warning doesn't seem to deter Edward. He has my arm in his, and he's guiding me towards the dance floor before I have a chance to protest.
"Come on, let's dance," he insists.
Usually, I hate dancing and would do whatever it took to avoid it, but, somehow, I feel more confident with Edward by my side, effortlessly leading me towards the crowded dance floor. For once, I ignore my nerves and force myself to relax and enjoy the moment. I'm no longer hung up on how stupid I look or how clumsy my moves are with Edward guiding me along to the beat of some generic tune.
For the first time, I actually find I'm enjoying myself, and even more so when the song changes to a much slower number. I expected Edward to lead us back to the bar, but instead, he grabs my waist and pulls me into his strong body, making me feel totally breathless.
My fingers slide up his chest and loop around his neck, where I run my fingers through the hair at the name of his neck while he studies me intently. His hands drift down from my waist to my back. He pulls me into him, and I press my body against him as we move in time with the music. It's hard to keep my cool when he's so close. It feels like an electric current passes through my veins each time he touches me, making every inch of my skin hypersensitive.
After the song finishes and the DJ reverts to another upbeat tune, we stand there in the middle of the dance floor, arms still wrapped around each other for a second or minutes- I don't know.
Somehow the air seems thicker than before, and I can't move or speak for fear of breaking the spell that we're in. We're like magnets drawn towards each other.
Something snaps between us, and in an instant, he's crushing his lips against mine. The moment his lips touch mine, my body gets a few degrees warmer. He pulls me into him, and I press my body against his and wrap my arms around his neck. A shiver runs through me as his fingers sink into my flesh. His lips are forceful and demanding against mine as his hands press me tightly against him. When Edward deepens the kiss, I don't hesitate to slide my own tongue against his. His tongue plays with mine, and he kisses me harder than before.
I've never been this consumed by a kiss. I can hardly breathe; all I can do is keep my lips on his. My fingers tangle in his hair, and he growls as I pull it gently. He drops his hands towards my ass and pulls me closer, so I feel his hard cock press against me. I love the feeling of being so close to Edward. I love the way we fit so perfectly against one another. Our bodies connect as if they were made for each other. There's no other way to describe it
Eventually, the need to breathe forces us apart, and Edward pulls away and presses his forehead to mine. We stare at each other's eyes, both silent for a few seconds as we try to catch our breath. We're both panting. His chest is heaving, as is mine.
He lifts a hand to trace a finger slowly down my cheek. "I've wanted to do that since I first spotted you outside," he admitted, his lips trailing across the same path his fingers have just traced.
Before I can respond, his chin dips, and he kisses me again. This time his lips meet mine slowly, gently, and his hands run down my spine to rest on the small of my back. He kisses me until I'm breathless, and even then, when he pulls back suddenly, I still wanted more. The moment his hands dropped from my face, I instantly missed the contact, and when Edward steps back to put an inch of space between us, I grow more worried still.
"This shouldn't be happening," he says, his voice full of remorse.
"Why not?" My insides sink. I should have known better to think he felt anything close to the connection I'm feeling. "Because I'm not exciting enough for you?"
"Let me stop you right there," Edward cut me off, holding a finger to my lips. "Bella, you are one of the nicest, genuine, most interesting girls I've ever met. I've never wanted anyone as much as I want you." I felt my cheeks redden from his passionate declaration.
"Then, why?"
"Because I'm not good for you, Bella. You really should stay away from me." His voice was tight, almost as if it pained him to say the words aloud.
"Please don't say that," I interrupt.
"It's true, Bella," he told me, worry etched on his face. "If I were a nice guy, if I were even halfway decent, I'd let you go." His voice is so low I barely hear him over the crowd and the music playing in the background.
"So why don't you?" I'm not sure I wanted to hear his answer, but something told me I needed to ask the question.
"But I'm a selfish fucking asshole, and when I want something, very little can stop me from getting it."
I struggle to form words for a moment, debating with myself. Finally, I ask, "do you want to get out of here?"
To say Edward is taken aback by my question would be a massive understatement, but he nods nevertheless and has my hand in his, leading me out of the club while I start to debate my actions. I'm attracted to Edward, that is undeniable, but could I actually go through with a night of casual sex?
The answer is yes.
Never in my life have I wanted a man as much as I want Edward.
He's smart, funny, mysterious, and undeniably sexy.
More alarming, my plan to have a baby hasn't even come into my mind from the minute we'd started talking.
I just want him.
It takes us a little while to get out of the club, but eventually, we do. I stumble slightly, so Edward takes my arm to steady me as he leads me past a row of parked taxis outside the club, and towards the fancy, and no doubt, expensive car I'd seen him exit earlier this evening. He holds the door for me, and I step inside, vaguely aware of him telling his driver to take the rest of the night off.
While Edward drives, I'm barely aware of the short journey to his place. I only realize he's driving to the other side of town … to the richer side of town. I'd never been here before, and it is amazing how much bigger and fancier the houses and apartments are.
I feel a nervous kind of excitement building. Thankfully, it doesn't take long to get to his apartment complex, and before I have a chance to take in the impressive exterior, Edward places his hand on the small of my back and guides me inside, where, once again, I don't have much chance to look around before the bell chimes, and the elevator opens.
Once the doors close, we are a mass of hands, both desperate to get as close to one another as physically possible. The only time Edwards hands leave me is to let us inside his apartment. He then enters a series of codes before the lock finally opens. It's all very fancy and high tech; clearly, he is richer than I'd assumed, but my observations are quickly pushed aside when he ushers me through the door.
It only takes Edward a few seconds to pick up where we left off as he reaches over and grabs me by the waist, pulling me inside and slamming the door behind us. He pulls me close and crushes his lips to mine, tangling his fingers into my hair to hold me closer. The kiss is electric, and my whole body feels like it's buzzing. I get lost in his kisses and decide to stop thinking and overanalyzing everything and enjoy tonight for what it is.
We're a mass of hands and lips and heavy breathing. Our kisses melt into one, but no matter how many times our lips touch, I still can't get enough of him. My nails are digging into his shoulder, but Edward doesn't seem to mind- he moans and groans, rubbing against me just as needy. When we finally come up for air, I blush at the crooked smirk Edward is wearing before his expression suddenly turns sour.
"Shit!" he swears, pausing suddenly.
"What's wrong?"
"I haven't got anything on me," he hisses.
I look at him questioningly, still none the wiser.
"Condoms." He curses while running a hand through his hair in obvious frustration.
I feel my heart stop.
Now is the moment to change things, to stop this madness while there's still time.
But for some reason, I can't find the words. I've come this far. Meeting Edward somehow feels like fate. I've never felt this type of connection before, and I possibly never will again after tonight, so why not have something lasting to remember?
What I say next is inexcusable, but I can't stop the words from tumbling out of my mouth.
It's okay, Edward, I'm not on anything, but you know I'm good. Are you? " I can't look him in the eye as the words leave my lips
"Yes, I'm clean, Bella." His relief is like a kick in the teeth. " Thank God, because I want you so much," he declares.
I know what I'm doing is so wrong. I should stop this now, but when his lips crush against mine, all rational thoughts disappear from my head.
His hands grip my neck, tangling in my hair at the nape of my neck, pulling me towards him. My hands are gripping his shoulders, his neck, grabbing his shirt and pulling him into me. Our kisses grow more insistent, our hands roaming shamelessly over one another, trying to get as close as possible.
Everything seemed to happen so fast after that.
One minute we were kissing, the next we stumbled through the living room towards what I can only assume is Edward's bedroom. We are both desperately trying to get even closer to each other, and we only pull apart momentarily to tug at the layers of clothing that are in our way. We tumble backward onto the bed, where I find myself trapped beneath his hard body. The weight of him on top of me is indescribably exciting. When his arms slide around me, he positions his hips above mine. I feel the full pressure of him against my body, and I do mean all of him. We're moving fast; my body is trembling with both nerves and excitement.
Edward notices. He stills my trembling fingers and turns me to face him, lightly brushing my cheek with his thumb to get my attention. When I look up, I am shocked by the intensity in his gaze.
"What's wrong, beautiful? Too fast?" He worries. For all his strength and powerful physique, there is a vulnerable side to him, too, one I'm sure many people don't get to see very often.
"No, it's not that," my voice trails off, and I look down, suddenly nervous at the prospect of telling him something I'm not exactly ashamed of, but it's not something I shout about either.
However, before we reach a point of no return, I need to at least be honest with Edward about one thing. Because while I know what I'm doing is wrong, I want him to know part of the truth; that this is something special to me … that he means something to me.
"I don't usually do this," I admit, blushing.
"I believe you," he strokes my face and smiles gently.
"No, I mean it, Edward," I pause, uneasy at the prospect of telling him. Would he think it was weird? Would he change his mind?
"I've never had sex before," I confess.
I know some guys find it weird that women don't sleep around, but I don't think Edward is one of them.
Still, his reaction shocks me.
He stares at me for one long moment and shakes his head, a smile on his lips. "You really are perfect for me," his eyes are soft as he runs his finger along my cheek. Edward pulls back slightly, resting his forehead against mine. "You were waiting for me, too?" he murmurs. Somehow, despite the unlikeliness of his claim, it feels like there's truth behind his words.
I nod back, the emotion too big to put into words.
Before I can say anything more, he leans down and places his lips against mine and kisses me gently. This time it's soft and sweet and unhurried like our earlier frenzy. I find myself relaxing and melting into the kiss. It's not as intense as the last, but it's somehow more.
When he pulls away, his eyes burn into my soul. "Are you sure this is what you want, Bella?" he asked, concern written across his face.
I nod back because I've never been more sure about anything in my life, and I tell him that.
"I want you," I say, looking him straight in the eye, so he will see that I mean every word I say.
I don't know who reaches; first, all I know is that our arms wrap around the other's body, and our lips find each other in an instant. I meet his tongue eagerly, and we both fight for dominance before his mouth eventually leaves mine.
Edward leaves a trail of kisses from my jaw, my neck, and across my collarbone, as he slowly runs his palm across my chest. His touch erupts butterflies deep in my stomach, and I gasp when his mouth drifts down and finds one of my hardened nipples. He starts slow, with light kisses and touches, and I feel the moisture forming in my panties when he takes one into his mouth and sucks gently.
As his touches grow bolder, I arch myself against his stroking hand. He groans thickly in response and looks up at me with blazing eyes as his fingers trail painfully slow towards the hem of my underwear, to where I needed him most.
Without breaking eye contact, he slides his fingers inside my panties, teasing the small patch of hair there and caressing me intimately. It's impossible to describe the feeling of his fingers. I'm so wound up that as soon as he touches me, we both groan, and he drags his fingers to my wet slit. That feels too good, and in seconds I am panting and writhing beneath him. My breathing quickens, and my moans become louder and louder. But still, I need more.
"Edward, please," I beg. Thankfully he seems to understand what I need, and his fingers speed up their efforts, bringing with it the most intense orgasm … albeit, the very first orgasm I have ever experienced.
As I come down from my high, I lay there, panting and gazing up at Edward. He strokes my hair and holds me tight until my whole body relaxes. I should probably move, but I've never felt so safe or so at home as I do with Edward. The thought is as lovely as it is terrifying.
I could quite happily stay like this forever, but from the feel of the erection rubbing against me, I know he needs his release just as much as I needed mine.
I reach up to run my hands across his glorious chest. As I run them down his six-pack, slowly heading south, I feel him shiver beneath me, and I smile. Feeling brave, I tugged down his boxers. As soon as I did, the sight of his naked body stills my movements.
He's perfect.
And gorgeous.
And big.
Of course, he's big.
However, rather than feel intimidated by his size, I'm curious about what it will feel like? This is the first time I've seen a guy naked, and I can feel my cheeks heating with embarrassment. But before I can reach out to touch him, Edward captures my wrist and withdraws my hand before I have a chance to return the favor.
"But you haven't..." I started before he cut me off and shook his head adamantly.
"If you touch me now, I won't last very long, Bella. I want to be inside you for that," he says, leaning over to kiss me.
We take our time, kissing, tasting, and exploring each other's body before Edward spreads my legs wider and settles himself between them. I knew from the look in his eyes that he is beyond ready. The swollen shaft against me speaks of just how ready he is, but instead of plunging in straight away, he takes his time trying to ease the tension from my body with gentle, unhurried kisses.
Finally, when neither of us can take any more teasing, Edward positions his cock at my entrance. Slowly, he inches his way inside me until our bodies were completely connected. I am so distracted by his tongue gently stroking mine that when he thrusts forward, a strangled cry leaves my lips, and my whole body stiffens in reaction.
It hurts. There is no denying that, but it was nowhere near as painful as I'd built it up to be.
Edward pauses for a moment, remaining perfectly still above me while he waits for me to adjust to his size. I can see from the strain in his arms and the sweat forming on his forehead that he is in as much discomfort as I am. When he pulls back a little and runs his fingers down my cheek, concern is written all over his face.
"I'm okay now," I try to reassure him.
"You sure?" he asks through gritted teeth.
I nod. "Just go slow," I urged.
His eyes linger on mine for a moment until he's sure I'm okay before he finally starts moving within me. My fingers wrap around the nape of his neck as he pushes deeper inside, his hips moving back and forth in a gentle rhythm. I respond to every move he makes; we are in sync with one another as if we've been together a hundred times before rather than this being the first. Our bodies are sweaty and out of control, but nothing exists except Edward and the pleasure he is bringing me. As his thrusts get harder, my moans get louder, and I can see he is struggling to stay in control.
"I'm not gonna last long," Edward groans. As his thrusts come faster, harder, he captured my lips in a deep kiss, matching the movements of his tongue with the slow, tantalizing motion of our hips.
We fell into a steady, sensual rhythm; a moan slips through my lips as his cock dives deeper inside me. I can feel my orgasm build slowly, and when Edward whispers, "come for me," my body is completely in his control.
Suddenly, it all becomes too much. The sensation overtakes me, and all the tension inside explodes, and I come around him, my vision blurring.
It's quick; it's messy. It's rough and fucking incredible.
Edward isn't far behind me. A few seconds later, I watch his face transform as the pleasure overtakes him. His eyes close and his lips fall open as he releases inside me. When he comes, I feel his body tense and the long shudder of his body before it gives out completely. After he has ridden out his orgasm, Edward collapses on top of me before flipping us over and dragging me with him, so I am against him.
He pulls me closer, wrapping his arms around me tightly and holding me as we calm down from our high. I melt into his embrace as he strokes my hair and holds me until my whole body relaxes. Amazingly there is no awkwardness. We are sweaty and a mess, but I've never felt so safe or so at home as I do in Edward's arms. He holds me closer than I've ever been held before, and I feel more connected to him right now than I have to anyone else. I rest my head in the crook of his arm and give in to the inevitable overwhelming emotion that follows.
I feel far too much to call what we just shared a one-night stand, but I push those thoughts aside as sleep overtakes me.
The following morning comes all too quickly as I force myself out of the warmth of Edwards' arms. Unable to stop myself, I risk a final fleeting glance at him. He looks so beautiful in a peaceful slumber, a small smile playing on his all too handsome lips, a hand stretched out across the space I recently vacated.
I'd promised myself there would be no clinging, no sighing, no long desperate looks, but still, I struggled to control my emotion. I remind myself it was just one night, but deep down, I knew I was only kidding myself. I want more than one night with Edward, but what is the likelihood of that ever happening?
I wondered how I had been so naïve as to think I could share one night with him and then walk away as if nothing ever happened.
I'd been so sure of my plan, so why now was I struggling with my decision?
I took a moment to think about what I was doing. I might not even get pregnant; the chances were I wouldn't. What we shared last night was so much more than a one-night stand. There was a connection there, so surely, we'd be able to start a relationship and see where it went.
However, as much I wanted that scenario to be true, deep down, I know I would never be able to pick up like normal. The reality is that I'd used Edward for my own selfish reasons.
In the cold light of day, I felt ashamed of myself, and if I couldn't live with what I'd done, what chance did I have of Edward forgiving me? Sure, I could hide it, but the guilt would eat away at me.
No, I had to leave and leave now before I talked myself out of it. I turned away quickly, knowing if I didn't leave now, I never would.
And with that, I turned and walked through to the bathroom. I threw on my clothes quickly before sneaking out of the room, leaving with a broken heart and a guilty conscience.
As I walk out of Edwards apartment, a piece of my heart stays with him.
My heart is pounding the entire elevator journey down to the entrance. Thankfully, it is still early, so not many people are around, and I managed to avoid the walk of shame. A few people were milling around the lobby, and a couple of suspicious-looking men stood guard outside the main doorway talking in hushed voices. They seem unaware of my presence, and my instincts told me they were trouble, so I snuck away through a side door instead.
The journey back to the hotel passed in a bit of a blur, and only when I arrived at my room, did the reality of what I'd done set in. I fell against my door, breathing heavily.
Oh, my Lord. I cannot believe you just did that.
Sweat broke out over my face as the reality of the scene threatened to overwhelm me. I took a deep breath and went to shower before crawling into bed. Curling under the covers, I try to block the rest of the world out.
A couple of hours later, I still lay in bed, feeling sorry for myself. No matter how much I tried to focus my mind on something- anything else, I found myself thinking of nothing but Edward.
That was over six weeks ago
Six weeks since I'd met Edward, and not a day had gone by where he didn't cross my mind.
I try to forget about him, I really do. It's easier said than done. How can I pretend it never happened when I haven't been able to stop thinking about him ever since?
Every time I closed my eyes, I imagined his perfect face; I can feel his soft lips, remember his delicious taste, and his tantalizing scent. It was torture and thrilling all at the same time.
I was so distracted by the memories of Edward, that I didn't even notice my period was late until the sickness started. I should have been thrilled, but my joy was tinged with sadness.
I'd got my wish. The one thing I had dreamed of, so why wasn't I happier about it?
Maybe it was because I'd missed the chance of a potentially wonderful relationship with a great guy because of my crazy scheme.
But if I couldn't have Edward, then his baby was the next best thing. I mean, in reality, and in the cold light of day, a man like Edward would never want someone like me.
I thought about going back to the club and finding him, but I dreaded the prospect of facing him after I'd run out on him.
What did he think of me?
Did he even think of me? Or was it just a one-night stand to him?
The connection I'd felt on that night was undeniable, but did he feel the same way, or had he just got swept away in the moment?
No, I had to move on. I had a baby growing inside of me to think about; a baby I'd been desperate to have.
Then why did it feel like something was missing?
With every day that passed, it became a little easier to face what I had done. Now that I'd gotten used to the fact that I was pregnant, I was thrilled. Angela was equally happy for me and was the first to offer her support. Rose, on the other hand, had seemed nervous, almost anxious when I'd told her the news. But I put it down to the fact that she worried about me raising a child on my own.
She'd been nothing but supportive in the build-up to our night out. So, what had changed?
Puzzled by her attitude, I'd asked, "Aren't you happy for me?"
"It's not that, Bella," she started hesitantly, choosing her words very carefully. "I'm just worried, okay. I mean, what do you really know about Edward?"
Her question surprised the hell out of me- why was she so interested in him all of a sudden?
"Not a lot if I'm being honest," I told her. It was true he'd been a little sparing when he spoke about himself, almost secretive, but what did that matter?
"Why are you asking me this? It's not like I'm ever going to see him again." I pointed out.
"Bella, I don't think it's that simple," she started hesitantly. "I didn't want to worry you, but I've been asking around, and Edward isn't exactly who you think he is. We screwed up!"
"Just stop!" I interrupted. Perhaps I was being stupid, but all this talk of Edward was getting us nowhere other than torturing me more. I'd just gotten to a point where I could accept what I'd done and move forward. Going over it all again was only bringing more pain. "I don't want to talk about him anymore!"
Though it was clearly still bothering her, Rosalie finally dropped it and moved our conversation away from Edward.
Despite Rosalie's words of warning, I had no regrets. Perhaps I should, but I couldn't for one minute regret meeting Edward and having this baby. I'd been to a doctor who'd confirmed I was six weeks pregnant, and it was going well so far. She'd recommend some vitamins and supplements to start introducing to my diet after I'd expressed some tiredness.
Hearing that the baby was doing well felt like a weight had been lifted from my mind.
Not even the odd bout of morning sickness could dampen my spirits.
Life was good, I thought, as I grabbed my shopping bags from the trunk of my car. I juggled them toward the house, and after struggling to get my keys in the door, I eventually made it into the house and headed straight into the kitchen.
I was so distracted; I didn't realize I wasn't alone until a hard voice spoke.
"Bella, you're a difficult girl to track down."
Terrified, I gasped, turning in horror to see Edward sitting at my dining room table.
He'd found me.
And he looked angry...