THE OTHER WOMAN
DISCLAIMER: STEPHENIE MEYER OWNS IT ALL.
A/N: I am very sorry for such an extremely late update but I hope you guys really love this chapter. Special thanks to EdwardsFirstKiss who beta-ed this chapter! I cannot thank you enough for you time.
I hope you guys enjoy this chapter and leave a REVIEW! Thank you.
July 21, 2015
BELLA
The long awaited Seattle Metropolitan Museum finally opened its doors to the people of Seattle. The opening night was spectacular the top names of the city attended the event. Logan Kurt, Jackson O'Connor, Maisie Hewitt and Raymond Charles were a few of the many names in the crowd.
Of them all, one stood out as the most eligible bachelor in Seattle. Edward Cullen. Recently Mr. Cullen had been in the news as being the Director of the newest project issued to the Cullen & Platt Architecture firm. The Matsu Towers in Dubai are rumored to be one of the most energy-efficient projects in modern architecture.
When asked about the details of the project moving forward, Mr. Cullen said, "Perfection takes time. We're almost there, although there are many factors yet to be considered. Masterpieces are not made overnight, but I can give an assurance that the project is one of the best leading works we've done so far."
As ever, Edward Cullen has us on our toes looking forward to his upcoming project. On the other hand, there have been speculations that Cullen & Platt Architecture have decided not to collaborate with Creek Construction due to a personal feud. A source also mentioned that the firm has decided to create a joint venture with a different construction company for the upcoming project. Although Mr. Cullen remained tight-lipped about the topic, it won't be too long before we find out.
I gaze at the picture next to the article. Those green eyes pierced right through the paper; his hair was its usual sexy, copper mess, and his lips were curled into a gorgeous smile. He was wearing a gray suit and I sigh softly when I notice that the top two buttons of his black shirt were undone.
"Since when have you started reading the newspaper?" I'm startled when Emily appears next to me out of nowhere. She stares at me questioningly and I shake my head.
"The Museum just opened last night; Angela wanted to go, so I was looking to see what it was." I shrug casually as she leans forward to take a closer look. A gasp escapes her lips.
"My word, that's one fine man. Wasn't he on the cover of Forbes?"
I nod.
"Yes. Jake is working on his project, actually."
"Lucky Jake. He gets to watch that man every day."
"Edward, it's, uh his name." I tell her awkwardly and she just waves it off.
"Alright, I'm going to take off now. Sam and I are going out for lunch." She beams at me.
"Of course. Enjoy."
"Bye, Bells."
She kisses my cheek and grabs her purse before leaving the store.
For the next forty minutes, I work on checking the new stock so that Seth can arrange them for me. I ignore his lazy ass attempts to not do it. After having him organize them, I sit at the counter for a short while before taking a break.
My phone buzzes when I am sitting at my counter and munching on some chicken nuggets. Hope flutters that maybe it's Edward but then I sigh with disappointment when Riley's name flashes on the screen. I don't answer it. The ringing of my phone irritates me when Riley calls for the third time so I answer it as much as I don't want to.
"Why aren't you answering my calls?" His voice is cold and guarded as he hisses with hostility on the other line.
"Hello to you too, Riley."
"Why aren't you answering my calls?" He repeats.
I sigh.
"I was busy."
"Where are you?" He asks skeptically.
"At my store."
"I don't hear anyone."
I roll my eyes. "I'm in my office, Riley."
I think about Edward's words. He said I should give Riley another chance, but he doesn't deserve it. But it was sweet of Edward to be concerned about me. I wish he was on the other end of the line. Maybe I'll give him a call. Or would that be just too pathetic? Maybe he is having lunch with his girlfriend.
Ugh. Maybe he is. She is one perfect blonde. I saw her photograph in a magazine last week. Not a business magazine. It was one of those trashy magazines where she left hints that she and Edward were getting engaged. Any other time I would've been depressed but that day I knew he wasn't ready to marry her because he told me about it.
I want to meet his sister as well. She sounds fun. And Edward loves her very much. Of course he does, she's his little sister. I always wanted a little sister but then Jake was the best brother I could ever ask for. I am taken out of my musings when Riley decides to speak up.
"No you're lying. You're with that Edward guy, aren't you?"
I groan. Ever since I told Riley about Edward, he thinks I'm cheating on him. I wish, but no. How much patience can I show towards this man? I don't think it's going to work out. It's been a week for Christ sake! We had sex once, which was nice but not the best I've had.
"I'm not! We are just friends."
Even though I want it to be something more.
"Really?
"Yes and you don't have to act so annoying because we've only been dating for a couple of weeks."
"Don't lie to me. I know you are screwing around with him. I saw him at the restaurant, was he following you? Even when you were at my place, you called him."
"He called me." I mention dryly and shake my head.
Why am I still talking to this jug head?
"You like him. I know it. Then why are you going out with me? I know you are only looking to date someone who has money because you don't have any. I want you to tell me the truth; that you are going out with him."
I take a deep breath. I can hang up right now and pretend that he doesn't exist. Or, I can just say what he wants.
"Yes, I am. We went out on a date last night. It was fun. Then we went over to my place and had sex."
How much I wish.
"What?" He screeches on the other line and I wince. "I always knew you were a slut."
Anger flares inside me. How dare he? First, he asks me to admit something that is not the truth and then accuses me of something so horrible?
"How the fuck can you say that without knowing me? You have no right to say that. We went out for one week, we weren't exclusive—"
"You are my girlfriend."
"I never said I was."
There is a beat of silence from his side.
"I'm sorry, I ju—" I cut him off.
"It's too late for that; we can't see each other anymore. Get a life, Riley."
I feel very calm as I say those words to him.
"Bella, please don't do this. I like you so much." His voice lowers, with a hint of desperation in it.
He isn't crazy, is he?
"Riley, this isn't working. I'm not used to relationships of this sort." I let him know honestly.
"You're perfect for me. I have wanted to go out with you for a while now. We can't be apart. I want to be around you all the time. Don't end this. What is it that he has that I don't? I can give you anything you want. If you break up with me, it will not end well for you."
Is he threatening me? Huh. Well, one thing is for sure is that I'm going to kill Angela.
"Goodbye, Riley."
"Bella—" I hang up the phone.
I smile as a sigh escapes my lips.
Now that's how it's done.
I finish my lunch and resume sitting at the billing counter. As I am arranging my desk, a woman in her late forties walks in and I take in her clothes. They look expensive. Her blonde hair is in a French twist and her blue eyes are curiously staring at the place.
I resume my task at hand and the next time I look up, she isn't standing at the entrance anymore. I sigh. Maybe she went to the Barnes & Noble across the street. Edward didn't do that though. I smile.
I'll call him later tonight.
Out of my periphery, I watch a little figure hopping by a bookshelf. I swivel my chair in that direction and notice a girl stretching her arms to reach a book. My eyes fall on the chair not far from her and I snort, shaking my head.
I stand up and walk over to her. "Which book do you want?"
Her hazel eyes widen and she thoughtfully stares at me. Her hair barely reaches her shoulders, and she is wearing a cute summer dress. She mustn't be more than five or six years old.
"Princess in Black!" She exclaims and I chuckle.
I quickly get the book out and bend down to her little form.
"Here you go, sweetheart. What's your name?"
"Lilly."
"Wow, that's a pretty name. You know lilies are one of my favorite flowers."
Her face lights up.
"Really? I love tulips too!"
"Of course, they are such pretty flowers also."
"What's your favorite flower?"
Okay. She likes to talk.
"Um, carnations. And lilies." I ruffle her hair and she giggles.
"Did you come here alone?"
"No, my mommy is finding a book for herself."
"Alright. Take this book to her then. Do you love to read?'
She nods eagerly.
"Well, every Saturday we have book readings here, why don't you come along with your mom?" I suggest and she smiles.
"Will you be here?"
"If you want me to, then I will be. Will I see you on Saturday?"
"Yes! I'll get my daddy too."
"Alright, now go run to your mother."
Lilly giggles again and skips away to find her mom.
A sudden gasp escapes my lips when I stand up. My heart hyperventilates in my chest and I am pretty sure my mouth is agape. Narrowed, blue eyes are studying me carefully. I compose my expression. It's the lady who entered my store not long ago, who I thought had left.
"May I help you ma'am?"
"No, thank you. I'll be fine here."
She offers me a warm smile and I manage a half ass attempt at smiling before scurrying away to sit at my desk again. I try to engage myself in some idle activity but feel that the woman is looking in my direction. When I gaze in her direction, she openly stares at me. I frown and watch her walk further inside the store.
She isn't crazy, is she? There is no ring on her finger, she must be. From the looks of her clothes, she must be rich. Maybe she's the kind of woman who goes crazy after a divorce and lives alone for the rest of their lives. No offence. Ugh, why am I thinking about her? Anyway.
I grab my phone and send a text to Angela.
Where are you? —B
Done with the shoot, on my way to your store. —A
I bet she wants to have an important conversation with me. Maybe Riley called her and told her what happened. I can't go out with that guy, he's a lunatic. Sometimes, I wonder how Angela can end up with such a nice guy like Ben but have such horrible taste in men for me to date? And it seems she is lowering her standards with each successive man.
The Rich Lady walks over to me with a big grin on her face holding a book in her hand. I smile back. She doesn't seem all bad. I gingerly take the book from her hands and a chuckle escapes my lips when I read the title. The Beautiful Fall. I suggested the same book to Edward!
Oh. I haven't seen Edward for a long time now.
I am broken out of my reverie when I hear a throat clear. I look up at the woman peculiarly staring at me.
"Oh, right? I'm sorry," I blush. "Just a moment."
"That's fine. You're Bella, aren't you?"
I nod.
"Yes, I am. I'm curious as to how you know my name?"
"I know from a particular source." She shrugs, making me smile.
"Here you go, ma'am." I hand her the book after she pays me the cash.
"You have a lovely store."
I blush brighter this time. "Thank you very much."
"Romeo and Juliet." She mentions, smiling ruefully as she stares at my book on the counter.
"What's a love story without some drama, eh?"
Her smile turns bittersweet and her blue eyes pin me with their gaze.
"Oh sweetheart, be careful what you wish for."
She shakes her head and takes the change from me and exits the store. And I am dazed by her words that make no sense to me.
When the sun shines, we'll shine together
Told you I'd be here forever
Said I'll always be a friend
Took an oath I'm a stick it out 'til the end
I take a swig of my Manhattan and turn to Angela who is enjoying Rihanna's music and bobbing her head to it. I have no idea why we are sitting here. Angela and I are at the bar, far away from the crowd so that we have privacy but we're not in the VIP section because well, we aren't VIPs.
Angela barged into my store and demanded a valid reason as to why I broke up with Riley. After justifying myself all afternoon, she dragged me to the Q Nightclub around six.
I just continue staring at her carefree, happy-go-lucky face. How could she not worry about anything ever?
"Bella, look at you. You're going prematurely gray. Get drunk and just enjoy your Tuesday night."
"Exactly, it's Tuesday."
"I know what you need to do," She says over the music and I groan. Here we go. "You're getting drunk and sleeping with the best stranger here."
"I'm not doing that. I have to go to work tomorrow."
"I know," She winks and turns to the bartender. "Hey Jason! Five shots of Vodka for my friend here. Neat. Three for me." She looks at me. "Ben is coming in an hour."
I have no idea why I am sitting here with Angela just staring at her face which is glimmering and darkening in the neon lights. I hear the clinking of glasses and gaze down to find five shot glasses arranged for me on the bar.
The bartender winks at me and I blush as I look away.
"Come on, liven up! The bartender likes you! If you don't find anyone, you can sleep with him."
"Angela, I'm not having sex with some random stranger." I hiss angrily and she scoffs.
"You're such a prude."
"I'm not a prude."
I glare at Angela and gulp down my first shot. Then the second. And then the third. Wow. I feel nothing. I think that's a first. But there is this weird buzzing sound in my ears. Are there bees here? Probably not.
"Angela, you're not setting me up with a date ever again, do you hear me?" I tell her pointedly and she nods.
"I promise I won't."
I grin at her. Finally she understands me.
"You know, you are the best friend a girl could ask for."
"So are you, Bella."
"No," I glare at her. "You're better. You should admit that. I'm just going to be alone for the rest of my fucking life."
I gulp down the next two shots and close my eyes. Whoa. That was a lot.
When I open my eyes five more shots, filled with vodka are present. I frown. Are these magic glasses?
"They were empty." I tell Angela, pointing at the glasses. "They were empty just now!" I shout and she just laughs.
"I know."
"Are they magic? Or am I drunk?" She shrugs, sipping on her own shot. "I'm taking these glasses home. I'll never have to buy Vodka again. They fill up on their own." I giggle and she pats my hand.
"You're not going to be alone. You'll find the right guy."
"No!" I glare at her. "I won't. I am going to be alone for the rest of my life!" I scream at Angela and find two women staring at our exchange with wide eyes.
"What do you guys think? Am I going to end up alone?" They both continue gaping at me. The waiter hands them their beers and they scramble away. I turn to Angela.
"Why did they both run away? I'm not drunk. Do I seem like it? Do I get drunk that quickly? Tell me!" I ask desperately and run a hand through my hair.
"You're not drunk and that was just one woman."
"There were two," I blink when I realize I'm holding four fingers. I laugh. "Look at that. I'm holding four fingers. I just…" I shake my head and gulp down two more shots.
"What was I saying?" I ask again.
"That you will find a boyfriend soon." I grin smugly.
"Yes! And he will be the best guy in the world. Not like my dad. A douchebag. Such an ashhole," I slur and giggle. "Not ashhole, ashhole." I sigh. "It's a really hard word to say."
"I know, honey. Forget about it. Why don't you dance with a guy?" Angela suggests and I nod.
"I'll call someone." I grab my phone from my purse and place it near my ear. "Hello?" I close my eyes and patiently wait for someone to speak. "Hello? Is somebody there? Is this somebody?"
I open my eyes and realize there is Vodka in the glasses again. I stare at my phone and let out a snort.
"I forgot to dial!"
"Bella, that's your wallet."
"What a mean thing to say!" I frown at her. "Where's Ben?"
"He is on his way."
Ben enters the nightclub hours later and it must be somewhere around morning when I see him waving in our direction. I giggle when I realize he has two hands as well. I stumble out of the bar stool and clumsily walk over to where he is.
"Ben! Hey, you're here!" I hug him tightly.
"Hey, Bells! You seem to be doing just fine."
Tears prick my eyes and I shake my head.
"I'm going to die alone! Only one person. There is no one here for me in this world! And the guy that I want to have babies with has a snotty, bitchy, rich girlfriend!"
I ramble about the guy I want and drag him to where Angela is although it seems like he is the one carrying me.
"Bella, talk to a guy. Go ahead." I roll my eyes as everything blurs around me.
"Fine! But we can't have sex. My apartment's not clean."
"You can go to his apartment."
"Okay," That sounds fair. But, it's morning. I have to go to work. "But, it's morning. I need to go to the store."
"Bella, it's eleven thirty at night. Not morning."
I frown.
"No, we waited for Ben until morning."
"Just go, Bella." Angela pleads and I huff.
"Okay!"
I flounder a little and grip the bar stool in my hand tightly. My heels look very dangerous tonight. I can't even walk in them. Were they like eight inches or something? Pfft. I know I have my phone in my hand so that I can call Angela if I need her.
I find a man, probably my age, standing in the midst of the crowd, tapping his foot along the beat. He is wearing a white shirt, rolled up to his elbows and dark wash jeans. His gray eyes twinkle when he looks at me. Whoa. My eyes never twinkle. Twinkle, twinkle, little star.
"Hi." I smile, waving at him. "My name is Bella."
"Hello ma'am. I'm Will."
Wow, he sounds like an alien.
"You sound different."
"I'm from Australia."
"Oh my god! You're an alien!" I point at him and he laughs, shifting closer to me.
"No, Ms. Bella. I'm just a normal guy. Not an alien. Would you like to dance?"
I giggle. "That's a good question but I can't dance."
"You're beautiful, of course you can dance." I blush and he grins, placing his hands on my waist, pulling me flush against him. He gingerly takes my arms and places them around his neck. "Now, just move with the music." I smile as we move slowly against each other. I laugh when I notice his shirt. It's white.
"You know, Edward has a white shirt like this. He wears it with his suit."
"Who's Edward?" Will asks with a smile on his face.
"Edward?!" I gape at him. He doesn't know Edward. "Edward Cullen! He is an architecs. Architecs." I try to correct but it's impossible.
"An architect?" I smile.
"Yes! So you do know him! He is the best guy in the world but he has a girlfriend. I don't like her."
"Have you met her?"
"No," I make a face. "I never will. She must be perfect."
"Maybe not." He shrugs and I frown.
"How would you know?"
"You're right but you're much prettier."
"Thank you but I'm sure Edward doesn't like me."
"Why not?"
"Because I'm not smart or rich or pretty enough for him. He's perfect."
"Ah, Bella. You can be pretty wrong at judgements sometimes."
"No! I'm right about this," Tears gather in my eyes. "I just want to kiss him once. I won't even grope."
"I'm sure he won't mind your groping."
"He will and then he'll call his rich servants to take me away." Will laughs at that.
"Servants?"
"Yes! He must have a palace with lots of servants." I giggle when I take a whiff of him. "You smell like carrots."
"Do I? Well, I like carrots."
"I like carrots too! There are different kinds of carrots. Like, baby carrots."
"Yes, of course."
"Who eats baby carrots?"
"Rabbits."
"Wow, I didn't know that. Maybe I should tell this to Edward the next time we meet. Baby carrots eat Rabbits," I note to myself. "Hold on, I'll tell this to Angela." I quickly type in a text and then turn my attention to him.
"You know, Edward knows everything."
"He does?"
"Yes, even about beers."
"That's great."
"I think about him all the time. I don't want to."
"Why not?"
"Because it's not going to happen."
"I'm sorry about that."
I nod, patting his chest.
"It's okay. I'm used to being alone." I am pushed against his chest when a wave of people pushes me to him and the room spins around me. "Whoa, that's new."
"Are you here alone?"
"No, Angela and Ben are here. You know them. Angela is my best friend, and she told me to dance with a handsome stranger and get drunk and have sex. So will you have sex with me?"
"Sure." I grin.
"I knew you would."
I press my lips against his and close my eyes, moaning as his tongue enters my mouth. Wow, he is a good kisser. I wrap my arms around his neck and pull him closer as I notice his hands creeping towards my hips. He grabs onto them and I giggle suddenly reminded of carrots.
"Wait," I let out another giggle. "I was just thinking about carrots." His gray eyes display some kind of relief.
"You were?"
"Yeah."
The gray eyes spin around me and the neon lights make me squint around the sweaty crowd. I can't help as I grab his hands tightly, afraid that the room is falling apart. Maybe an earthquake? Oh god.
"Bella? Are you okay?" I shake my head.
"My apartment's not clean. We can't have sex there." I murmur softly as the voices overpower me. "We can't. Maybe your place?"
"Bella? Are you going to throw up?"
"No, you're spinning."
My eyes roll in the back of my head and I go limp in his arms, uncaring of the people around me only to become enveloped in the dark, dark night.
July 22, 2015
I move my legs but realize they are tied up. I frown. Am I kidnapped? No. Because the mattress is so soft. Then why do my legs feel weird? But my pillow is nowhere below my head. I snap my eyes open only to close them again. Ugh. Sunlight.
I try to open my eyes again and this time I notice my room has swept sideways. Hold on. I'm sleeping on my stomach. I sit up and groan when the room spins in front of my eyes. I realize I'm sleeping at the foot of the bed and my legs are resting on my pillow, and I'm wearing a sleeping mask. I shrug it off.
Very carefully I get out of bed, gripping the headboard and my head is throbbing in my hands. Oh god. Suddenly yesterday dawns on me. Angela. The club. The handsome stranger. Vodka. And more Vodka. If I'm dressed in my shorts and a tank top that means I didn't have sex and Angela helped me change. Good. I sigh with relief.
The phone buzzes on my nightstand and I groan with irritation. I grab it and stuff it under my pillow. I need coffee. And I need it now. I march towards my kitchen and open the coffee jar to find it empty. No coffee beans. I don't have any free coffee samples either!
What is wrong with me? I wipe away the tears I hadn't realized are flowing down my cheeks. I need coffee before I do anything else. I rush towards the bedroom with my throbbing head and grab the first jacket I get my hands on and first pair of flats I land on.
I lock my apartment and keep the key inside my pocket. I mutter to myself about how uncomfortable these flip flops are all the way through the elevator ride. If another person had been standing there, he would have thought I had lost my mind.
The elevators finally open and I greet John, the daytime guard on my way out. I get looks from people all the way to the cafe but I don't care. So what if I'm wearing my night clothes, I'm in a desperate need of coffee and probably a muffin too. A chocolate chunk muffin.
My stomach growls. Yeah, alright. Thank god, I never throw up after getting drunk. I have no idea what kind of stupid shit I pulled last night. I don't want to know. But, Angela will probably tell me anyway.
I finally see the talisman to my dull, lifeless day as I make a right turn. I literally skip over to the cafe and the aroma of coffee makes my stomach churn hungrily. I stand in the queue which already has ten people ahead of me. I wait for twenty minutes before I am remotely close to the counter. How hard is it to order coffee? They should ban the people who stand in the queue not knowing what they are going to order.
When I'm the third one in line, I stuff my hand inside my pocket to pull out a ten dollar note but realize I have forgotten my wallet. Oh dear god. What is wrong with me? Why does my life suck so much? All I want is some coffee!
I glare at no one in particular and push the person behind me as I turn and stride my way towards the exit of the indoor cafe. I bump into someone but I'm not in the mood to say sorry. I push the guy away even though he smells like heaven and walk past him.
Hold on.
There is only one guy who smells that good. I turn and find Edward standing at the entrance, a puzzled expression on his face as he stares at me. God, does he look handsome. Wearing a light gray suit and with white shirt underneath, this man looks delicious. His copper hair is still a mess and those green eyes, god I can get lost in them and wouldn't know it.
"Fancy outfit." He smirks and I blush, staring at my feet.
Damn. I should've dressed up. My face is probably a mess, my hair is probably an even messier mess and I'm wearing some stupid flip flops for crying out loud! I just feel like digging a hole and burying myself.
And Edward is seeing me like this of all people! I'm seeing him after a week. Well, more than a week and he shouldn't be seeing me like this. I turn and am ready to sprint as tears of embarrassment gather in my eyes but a velvety, rich voice makes me stop.
"Bella?" I slowly turn and my eyes widen when I find him walking towards me. "I'm sorry; I didn't mean to tease you." I shrug.
"It's okay, I was just leaving."
"You didn't have coffee?" I shake my head and a tear drops from my eye. "Why not?"
"I forgot my wallet and had an awful headache and I just wanted some coffee but nothing in my life can go right, that's why I have to go back home with nothing. Have a nice day. I'll let you be." I turn and electricity shoots through my right arm as he catches hold of my wrist.
"Bella, wait." I stare at his shirt and he tips my chin up to look at him. "Hi."
"Hey." I mumble and blush shyly. He gives me a crooked smile and my heart speeds up.
"How about this? You go inside, get a table, and I'll get us coffee."
"No, Edward, that's really okay. You don't have to—"
"Hush, I'm not listening to any of it. Go ahead and sit. What coffee do you prefer?"
"Edward, please…"
"Bella, you probably had a terrible morning, I can help you make it better. Tell me."
"A latte."
"That sounds amazing, let's go." Edward places his hand on the small of my back as we step inside. I can see half the population turn and stare at him. People must be wondering why the hell he is standing next to me.
"I'll be right with you." I nod and mousily, make my way to the corner-most table where people won't see me. I don't think Edward will either but that thought crumbles away when he turns and looks at me squarely in the eyes and smiles. I blush and smile back shyly.
I watch him the entire time. There are five people ahead of him. He makes a call to someone and then he receives a call until his turn is up. Edward keeps the phone away and speaks to the woman at the counter who is obviously gorgeous looking at Edward as if she is not coherent.
It's ten minutes later when Edward walks over to me with a tray and places it in front of me. He sits to my left and I watch a familiar figure walk into the store. My eyes widen. It's the man who I met in the parking lot of that restaurant. It's Edward's driver. He spots us and stares at me warily, obviously because of my attire and I look away embarrassed.
"Mr. Cullen." He says gruffly and hands something to Edward. I look over at Edward's hand to see a paper bag.
"Thank you, Matt." I finally look up at Matt and find him dressed in a fine, black suit.
"Ms. Swan." He nods at me and then walks out of the cafe.
"Here, Ms. Swan." I chuckle and find him holding an Advil in the palm of his hand. My heart melts. He is such a sweetheart.
"Thank you, Edward. You are so great." I take it from him and swallow it quickly, gulping down a little of my coffee. God, it's good.
"No problem." He smiles and sips on his coffee.
"What time is it?"
"It's nine."
"Aren't you late for work?"
"I can manage to be late. The boss doesn't mind." I laugh and feel much better. "So, how drunk were you last night?" He asks and my eyes widen as I gape at him.
"W-What?"
I didn't do anything stupid, did I?
"You were drunk, weren't you?"
"How do you know?" I ask cautiously and he chuckles. He pulls out his phone and swipes a couple of times and turns the screen to me. I groan, making him laugh.
"Baby carrots eat rabbits? That makes no sense."
"I was drunk." I defend myself although I like hearing him laugh.
"Sure you were. You were talking to your friends about carrots?" I frown as I try to recall.
"No, not my friends. This one guy smelled like carrots, I think…" I gasp. I kissed that guy last night. But thankfully, no kind of sexual intercourse took place.
"What?"
"Nothing, I just don't remember." I shake my head and his mouth twists into a remorseful smile.
"You were out with Riley?"
"No, we broke up. I was out with Angela and her husband, Ben." He lets out a deep breath, a smile inching its way on his handsome face.
"I thought you were going to give him another chance."
"He was crazy."
Edward has a fond smile on his face which is very distracting but I give an elaborate, gestured explanation of what had happened with the phone call and how stupid Riley is. After I'm done rambling, he just lets out a short laugh.
"Wow. I guess you really can't tell what goes on in a person's head, huh?" I nod, feeling the same way.
"You really can't tell."
I murmur and we gaze into each other's eyes for a long time. I realize we are leaning closer when suddenly the fragrance of coffee fills my senses. I blink and sit up straighter, clearing my throat. Edward does the same.
"Give me your pen," I ask and he frowns but obliges. "The bill."
"What?"
"The bill."
"Fine." He mutters and hands it to me. I add all the cash I am yet to pay him and my heart skips a beat at the figure. God, I shouldn't hang out with this man. He is really expensive. I have spent more than $100 in less than a week.
I show him the amount.
"I owe you this much."
"Bella, the beers were my treat."
"No, they weren't. We never decided that."
"But, I'm saying it now. So, don't argue."
"I won't listen to you. I'll drop by your office if that's what it takes. I don't care." I say firmly and he sighs.
"Let's not argue about it. Have your muffin. You said chocolate was your favorite thing in the world. So I got you a chocolate whatever muffin." I laugh but there are butterflies fluttering in my stomach. This is the kind of guy I wanted Riley to turn out to be. Never mind.
"Thank you, again."
"Hey, we're friends. You don't say thank you to friends."
Friends. I don't like to associate that word with him. Sure, friends but something more would sound perfect.
He has a girlfriend!
"Okay, I'll keep that in mind. And how's Tanya?" His face suddenly falls and my breathing hitches in my throat.
"She's, um, good. Maybe." Edward mutters and gulps down his coffee.
"Why do you sound so sad?" I take a bite of my muffin and let out a soft moan. "This is so good. You want to try?" He smiles shyly.
"That's fine. I'm not really a chocolate fan."
"I know that, that's why I'm telling you to only take a bite."
"Bella…"
"Please?" I say hopefully and he sighs, letting out a smile. I grin and hold the muffin up close to his mouth. He tentatively takes a bite, placing his hand on mine and my hand almost falters from the tingles. I set the muffin back in the plate and shakily grab hold of my coffee cup.
"It's not all bad."
I roll my eyes.
"It's very tasty."
He chuckles, his green eyes look thoughtful.
"Like I asked, is there a problem? You sound sad." I whisper and he sighs.
"It's nothing. I don't have a choice in a lot of aspects of life, for some reason."
I frown not understanding what he just said. Edward recovers his thoughtful face and offers a smile that doesn't reach his eyes.
"Do you love her?" I ask for the third time since we met. He shakes his head.
"I really can't tell you that." He whispers and I nod.
"As you wish."
Edward tells me about the museum he visited when I ask but we remain silent for the rest of the time. I guess Tanya was one topic that made us both feel uncomfortable. It shouldn't. But it did. By the time our coffees and my muffin is over, there is nothing left to talk about.
"Come on, let me drop you home."
"Edward, I live two blocks away. There is no need."
"I insist. Please?"
His eyes smolder into mine and those emeralds literally glow as he asks me and I can't help but nod. When he grins that's when I realize he did it on purpose.
"Hey, that's not fair." I glare at him.
"What's not fair?"
"You did something with your eyes." I point out, blushing furiously.
"What?"
"Nothing." I mumble and stand to leave. He follows me and keeps on asking about it.
"What did I do, Bella?"
"You're so cocky, you know it." He gives a smug smile and pulls out his phone.
"Yeah, I know." I slap his arm lightly. Edward gives me an amused smile.
"No one has ever done that."
"Oh really? Maybe they want to but they are scared of you."
He laughs and his fancy black car arrives at the entrance. Matt opens the door for me and I get in, feeling awkward for some reason. Edward gracefully slides in next to me and I smile to myself. He is really caring.
"Matt, we'll be dropping off Ms. Swan first." He nods and the car purrs to life.
"He knows my address?"
Edward nods.
"We happen to talk about it when I dropped you off."
"Oh." I mouth and look out of the window, so I don't jump on Edward whose knee is touching mine. I look ahead and something catches my eye, making me smile.
"Matt, how old is your daughter?"
His eyes shoot up in surprise and he looks at me from the rearview mirror.
"She's five, Ms. Swan."
Edward stares at me curiously. "How did you know?"
"There is a key chain that has 'Daddy' scripted in pink," I shrug. "Unless you have a secret daughter, I'm guessing its Matt's." He chuckles.
"That's very observant."
"Why thank you sir and we're here." I announce and the car halts in front of my building.
"What floor do you live on?"
"Third one." He nods.
I let out a sigh and blink my eyes, suddenly it's just him sitting there, Matt's gone, John—the daytime guard is not sitting outside, it's just him and me. He turns and smiles at me, the same panty-dropping smile of his that makes my heart beat faster.
Ugh! Why do I keep imagining him kissing me?
"So? This is it then."
I nod.
"Sadly, yes. I wish we had more time."
"We have time."
"We do?" I ask hesitantly and he chuckles.
"Yes, love. Come here."
Edward cups my face in his hands and I wrap my arms around his neck, pressing my lips against his. I moan when he nibbles my bottom lip between his lips and tugs on it with his teeth. I straddle his lap, keeping my legs on either side of him as we continue to kiss.
His hands land on my waist as he pulls me closer and I sigh when his sweet tongue enters my mouth. I play with the soft ends of his hair as I continue to swirl my senses with his irresistible mouth. It has to be multifunctional to do other tasks as well. Like so many sexual things I could imagine for myself.
"How long are you going to keep fantasizing us kissing at every occasion we meet?"
"Until we actually do." I mumble and moan as his wet kisses trail on my neck and shoulder.
"That's going to be a while."
"Maybe never."
"Don't say that. There's always hope. But, you're going to have to take long, cold showers for that."
"Thank god for my waterproof vibrator then." He chuckles and brings his lips back to mine.
"Oh, Bella." He whispers fondly and I smile.
"Bella? Bella?" I snap out of my reverie and find Edward staring at me worriedly whereas Matt stands holding the door open for me.
"Are you okay?" Edward asks and I nod.
"I'm good. I just…"
"Zoned out?"
I blush making him laugh.
"That's fine. Really admirable actually." I make a face and he laughs again. "Bye, Bella. I'll see you soon, I guess. We should meet up again."
"That sounds great. Bye, Edward."
"Have a great day."
"I haven't forgotten about the money."
"Later, Bella."
"Fine!" I glare at him. "You know what? I'll get it to you and you won't even know it. You don't have to act so goody-goody." I whisper and he shakes his head.
"Bella, not now."
"Fine, whatever." I mutter and turn but Edward calls out my name.
"I'm sorry, we'll talk about it the next time, I promise." I let out a sigh and nod.
"Okay." I smile and he smiles back, kissing my cheek. I almost faint but regain my composure. I get out of the car in daze and Matt closes the door.
"Bye Matt." He smiles at me and it's probably the first time I've seen him smile.
"Have a good day, Ms. Swan."
I wait until the car leaves and John stares at me with wide eyes. "You went walking, and back in an Audi?"
I just shuffle awkwardly from one foot to another.
"That was just my friend."
"God, I wish I had rich friends." He smiles at me and I smile back.
"How's Whitney?"
"Great, she got into an Ivy College on scholarship."
"That's wonderful. I'm so happy. Send her my wishes."
"Will do." He winks, and I bid him goodbye.
Okay, time for a long bath with my friend Joe.
I wonder if I should go to Edward's office to return the money. Is it even allowed? What if they don't let me meet Edward? I can just give him a call then. But, I have nothing nice to wear. Maybe I'll just wear something simple. Why should I try to impress someone who is way out of my league?
Oh, Edward. What are you doing to me?!
EDWARD
I check my watch for the third time since I prepared for the important meeting I have today. I have been waiting for Mr. Jack and Mr. Mueller for the past ten minutes. I run a hand through my hair and gaze at the Space Needle.
I glare at Mr. Jack and Mr. Mueller after they timidly enter my office. I stand up and shake hands with both of them briefly. They take their seats across from me and I stare at them narrowly.
"You're late." I snap and they glance at me apologetically.
"We are sorry for the delay, Mr. Cullen. We were just reading the articles that Creek Construction is sending out about our firm. That's all everybody can talk about."
I nod.
"I read them last night also," When Bella texted me. "We can have a press conference. I'll need to have a meeting with Kate considering this topic, I'm sure she can give us better input about this."
"So, are we to have a joint venture with Volturi Construction like we decided?"
"We've been thinking. Alex and I were speaking about it not long before you got here. There can be something done but I'm not basing my options on creating a venture. I want something permanent. We'll see how the market reacts to our news. Plus, I don't want to give bad reviews about Creek Construction no matter what they are speculating about us. We know better than to do that."
"I'm sure whatever decisions you and Sir Alex make will create a positive impact for our organization."
"It's not just Alex and me. Grandpa Victor always said that this company wasn't made by just his efforts alone. It was a team effort. This company isn't just mine or Alex's, it's ours. Moving on, I believe we have some important agendas to look forward to."
"Of course,"
Mr. Jack nods and opens a couple of files on his laptop. My phone buzzes and I glance at the screen to check whether it is someone important. It's Tanya. I resist the urge to roll my eyes and call Victoria to my office.
"Keep it," I hand her my phone. "Take down the messages but don't bring it back to me. Not even my mother's calls. Unless," I pause. Maybe Bella? No, she won't call.
I continue. "Nothing, that's all. Thank you." She nods and swiftly walks out of my office.
"I'm sorry gentlemen, please resume."
We brainstorm about the features that can be improved upon for a greener environment regarding our apartment building. I wheel my mounting board closer to us and mark regions to be discussed that are the most crucial ones for us. Our construction is supposed to start by the third week of November and I'm hoping to have everything ready before it starts.
We need plans for every floor ready, even for making the changes that surely will occur. No project is perfect, of course. It's going to take two years before people can move in. We've been pushing the date around but two years sounds about the right amount of time for the construction and interior design. Plus, there'll be trips to check on it and it's going to be summer, and it's Dubai.
Pretty amazing. Yes.
It's two hours into the meeting when Julie, Victoria and a third woman walks in, holding something. But, I am busy looking at the designs created by Mr. Jack and his team. I smell coffee and smile thinking about Bella. It was the best morning I'd had in years.
I remember her adorable outfit of gray sweatpants and a black tank top, plus those flip flops really made her look even more beautiful than she already is. She had no make-up on standing there au natural. But she must be having troubles in her personal life because she tears up at the smallest of triggers.
What she needs is a good friend right now. I can do that. And for the feather in my cap, she broke up with the jackass! Best news for the day. She broke up with him. Good for m… no, no. It doesn't change anything. I sigh. That is true.
Although I remember her endearing, gestured explanation of the call. Honestly, I don't remember a word she said, I was too busy staring at her gorgeous face and how her expression changed. It was a beautiful sight.
God, and she is not going to forget to give me all that cash. Cash that I don't need as much as she would for emergencies if that was the case. But she is stubborn. There is nothing I can do about it.
Finally, twenty minutes after they have both finished their coffees and cookies, we are halfway done with the meeting. I guess it's going to be a lunch meeting too. I take my jacket off and fold up the sleeves of my shirt.
Vic walks in again with an annoyed expression and I frown. She must be irritated with something.
"What's wrong?" I ask.
"There is some woman who keeps calling your phone, and she was on the premises from what I heard from the first and sixth floors, and said she wanted to talk to you about something important. You don't have stalkers again, do you?"
I frown.
"Who was it?"
"She left this," Vic hands me a package and my eyes widen. Holy fucking shit.
"Give her this and get her here right now."
Bella is here, and these people made her go away! What is wrong with them? But in their defense they don't know her.
"But, she must've left."
"I don't care; you need to get her back. Go get her. She is an important person, how dare you send her back without my permission? Go, get her." I shoo her out of my office and she rushes out.
I turn to the two people I have been talking to for the past three hours. "Gentlemen, we'll continue this meeting later. I have to reschedule for post-lunch."
They nod and stand up. I pace as I wait for Vic to get Bella and bring her to my office. Oh god, she must be mad, it's pretty humiliating. But there was a woman not long ago who did the same thing but I didn't know her. We had security throw her out. Maybe they didn't do this to Bella. She is much more beautiful than the other woman.
I can't hold it in any longer. I walk out of my office and into the lobby and find the other two women sitting behind their desks, making some calls while Vic is nowhere to be seen.
"Where's my phone?" I snap at one of them and she scrambles to her feet. Julie, I think. She just continues to stare at me with a dazed expression.
"My phone?!" I say in a louder volume and she fumbles around the desk before walking over to me. With shaky fingers, she hands it to me.
"I have no idea what the fuck goes on outside my office! You all have one job!"
I shake my head and find Mr. Jack and Mr. Mueller gingerly dodge me as they walk towards the elevators. I call Bella's phone, but she doesn't answer it.
I run a hand through my hair. Great. She doesn't want to talk to me anymore. The elevator opens two minutes later and Victoria walks in my direction. Where's Bella?
"Where is she? Did you at least get her back? Say sorry? Show any kind of manners?" I ask sarcastically and she rolls her eyes.
"Jeez relax, Cullen. You don't pay me to sit here for free. She'll be here." I see the two women behind the reception desk staring at our exchange with wide eyes.
"Is she coming?"
"Give it two minutes. Don't get your panties in a bunch," I chuckle and shake my head. I relax a little. "Vanilla is getting here."
"Vanilla?"
I know Victoria likes to give names to every person who meets me but Vanilla, really?
"She's pretty. I like vanilla." I roll my eyes but there is a spark of relief that she likes Bella. "Never seen you so worked up about someone before. What's the deal?"
"Nothing." I shake my head and the elevator opens. I'm sure everybody lets out a relieved breath when Bella walks in with two men behind her. Bella gives me murderous looks and I smile apologetically.
"Thank god." I mutter to myself and gaze at her beautiful face.
Lord, she's gorgeous. Her hair is flowing down her shoulders, her brown eyes are wide with anxiety but there is a tinge of curiosity in them, and her lips are pressed in a grim line. Fuck.
Bella is wearing a red summer dress that has flowers printed all over it, it's V-neck, giving an amazing view of her curves and she is wearing a denim jacket over it. So perfect. Although her cheeks aren't flushed with a blush this time, they are flushed with anger.
The clicking of heels approaches me and then she turns to Victoria. "Where is his office?"
"First door to your left." Bella pushes past me, handing me the visitor ID card that the office gave her in the process and marches towards the route while I am rooted in my place.
"You're telling her the directions? Open the damn door!" I yell and Julie quickly sprints towards my office.
Oh god, this is a first. I never ever have to do this. I rarely have problems with my assistants or my staff for that matter. Today, everyone seems annoying to me. I shake my head and run a hand through my hair.
"Vic, have my previous meeting rescheduled post-lunch, I'll be going home early. I have a visitor."
"Of course."
I slowly walk in the direction, glaring at Julie on my way who tries to subtly avoid as much eye contact with me as possible. Time to face the music. I enter the office and shut the door, hoping she would be sitting on the gray couch, possibly looking at the view of the city. Because everybody does that and it's refreshing.
But, no. I should've known she's different. My eyes race around the room and I finally find her in a separate section of my office that I barely enter.
Bella has her arms across her chest as she stares at the giant photograph hung on the wall. I hesitantly walk over and she lets out a soft sigh.
"Your family?"
"Yes, ma'am." I point out every family member as I explain to her about them. It was a photo from my college days. I graduated as the valedictorian of my class and the smiles on my family's face were almost blinding. That was a fun day. It was just us. Not even an inch of Rosalie and Tanya there.
"You all look so happy."
"Appearances can be deceptive." I murmur more to myself than to her and clear my throat as I move out of the space. I don't like to think about the good times. It just reminds me how shitty my life is now.
"I'm very, very mad at you." Bella says as she walks towards me.
She takes a seat across from my desk when I ask her to.
"But, you have a plush chair, and I like it." I chuckle and walk over to lean against the desk as I muster up my most apologetic look.
"I had no idea this would happen."
"I was dragged around from the ground floor to the sixth floor at least twice and ten people asked me the same question as to why I was here. They told me that it's not allowed to meet with you without having an appointment; like I was some kind of idiot. Then they ask me to leave and when I did; five people brought me back. What's up with that? Do you realize how many people were staring at me? I hate when people stare at me."
"Again, I'm sorry. What would you like to have? Coffee? Perhaps, a cake?"
"Are you asking for me or for you?" I chuckle. "Anyway, I came here to give you this." Bella opens her purse and I groan as I sit down in my chair.
"I'm not taking your money, that's why I sent it back with Vic."
"Edward, take it. I came over to give you this," I shake my head. "And to get dragged around to meet you."
"I can't take it. You can use the money for an emergency; save it. Savings are good to have." I nod and she sighs impatiently.
"Edward, please take it."
"Wow, you went all the way."
I study the envelope that probably has all the cash in it.
"And I'm still pretty mad about the incident that happened few moments ago. But, I'll forget about it, if you take this."
"Oh, blackmail. It's not working."
I smirk in her direction and she huffs and stands up. Fuck, she wants to leave.
"How about I make you a deal?"
"What deal?" She asks me warily and sits down on the chair again. I lean against the desk by her side and offer an unreadable smile.
"Well, I'm new to Seattle and you've been here your whole life. So, every Wednesday, we'll go out for lunch to a different restaurant. Your pick and you'll pay our bill the first two times with no interference from my side."
I smile and chuckle when I study her thoughtful expression. God, she's adorable. And I am pathetic because I'm just finding reasons to meet her again and again.
"The first three times."
That's not happening.
"Sure, why not?" She rewards me with a breath-taking smile. "You haven't had lunch yet, have you?"
"Nope. I thought I'd go back to my store and eat." I nod and grab my jacket that is draped on my chair.
"Ready?"
"Yes."
I make a right on Queenside Avenue and turn to find Bella staring out of the window with a warm smile tugging at her lips. I have no idea what she is thinking about but she looks happy. I can feel her staring at me out of my periphery as a blush flames her cheeks. I chuckle.
"What?" Bella asks shyly.
"What are you thinking about?"
"Nothing."
"Okay."
"Really, it's nothing."
"I believe you." I chuckle. "Have you been here before?"
"Of course, it's beautiful. I haven't been here for lunch so; we'll have to check it out."
"Sounds fair."
"Why don't you wear ties to work?"
"I don't like ties."
"Or maybe you can't wear one."
"I can, but I don't like to. It's suffocating to wear a tie."
"Hmm, what does your sister do?"
"Alice loves fashion. She has her own fashion line. She just got back from Milan, I think. She travels around the world when she doesn't have a lot of work here. Alice says she travels for research but everyone knows she just uses it as an excuse to shop."
"Alice sounds fun."
"She is," I grin. "She is my favorite person in the world."
"You're twins, of course."
Why do people always say that?
"And we're here," I announce. I stare at the restaurant that has very large windows. "Looks good."
"It's great."
We enter the restaurant after the car is parked and wait for a couple of minutes before our table is ready. I smile when I notice the seating arrangement for every table. There are no chairs but only C-shaped sofas to sit on.
"That's convenient."
"Come on, Mr. Fancy, take a seat."
"Ladies first."
Bella turns red as she quickly takes a seat and I occupy myself across from her.
The flooring is made of glass tiles and the hanging ceiling lights give the restaurant a vintage feel. If they could change the platform… I probably shouldn't point out the mistakes. Bella likes it here. So maybe it's not that bad.
We hear a clicking of heels approaching and I turn to see a waitress strutting in our direction.
"You're Edward Cullen. I saw your photo in the paper. Hi, I'm Lorrie."
"Hello, Lorrie, it's a pleasure to meet you. I take it you have some menus ?" I ask politely and she smiles sheepishly.
"Right, sorry." She hands the menus to Bella and me before walking away.
"Does this happen a lot?" Bella asks and I smile.
"Sometimes."
"You must like the attention."
"No."
I browse through the menu and turn to Bella for food recommendations.
"What are you having?" I ask and a smile twists on her lips.
"Crispy fried chicken and Andouille Gumbo."
"And how's the smoked salmon ?"
"It's delicious." I grin and nod at her.
Great.
I place an order for the food and drinks. Bella holds a Manhattan in her hand but the whiskey grips no interest for me as I stare at Bella. I study the way her lips kiss the glass when she drinks the amber liquid.
Bella sets the cocktail glass on the table and my eyes are fixated on the drop of liquid on her bottom lip. God, I want to kiss it away. Before I can fuel that thought anymore, Bella licks her rosy lips and wipes it away. Her brown eyes meet mine and I manage a smile on my face.
"So, you really haven't been out much?" Bella asks and I chuckle.
"I really haven't been out much. Just the restaurant we bumped at the first time. We have our meeting there every month." Her face scrunches up adorably.
"Same restaurant every month? That's boring."
"I'll make sure to remember that for the next time."
"Maybe you should try visiting that restaurant with you family. It can be a different experience. It's a great place to go on weekends. Maybe this weekend." Bella suggests with a smile.
"I'm not in the city this Saturday. I'm going to Boston."
"Oh," She looks thoughtful. "Why?"
"I'm giving a keynote speech at Northeastern University."
"Sounds interesting."
"It's not." She lets out a musical laughter.
"Difference of opinion."
"I'll say."
"You must be proud; a keynote speech is a big deal."
"Yes, but there have been some very special moments in my life that I can never forget."
"What tops the list?"
I smile. "When Cullen was added with Platt for the Cullen & Platt Architecture, I'll say that tops my list." I say softly and she grins at me.
"You should be proud. A lot of your dedication and hard work must go into making a name for yourself."
"I can't just give myself credit for everything, it's a team effort and I strongly believe it that."
"I like that you don't boast about yourself."
At least she likes something about me.
"Why thank you ma'am."
Her eyes suddenly widen. "Hey, did you speak to Jake?"
"I was about to, after my meeting. I'll have a word before I leave."
"Okay, thanks."
Lorrie places two steaming plates of food on the table and wishes us Bon Appétit before she leaves. I wonder if Bella had eaten anything since the coffee we had this morning because she gives me a cute smile before digging into her lunch. She moans after chewing the first bite and it's the hottest thing in the world.
"This is the best chicken ever."
"That's good."
I take a bite of my salmon and it melts in my mouth instantly. God, it's delicious.
We eat in a peaceful silence except for when Bella is talking about her customers. I don't waste my time in talking but instead, stare at her beautiful face. How her luscious lips curl into a breathtaking smile when her brown eyes grown big with disbelief and her cheeks are flamed with a blush through it all.
I watch people turn and glance our way but Bella doesn't know about this. They are looking at her and how striking she is. Bella has no idea how attractive she is and I wonder when she will realize it.
"...oh and did you give that book to your aunt?"
I am in an utter daze staring at her but find the strength to sit up straighter. Her question comes crashing back and I give her a slow smile.
"Turns out, she already had it."
"Oh, that's sad, so what did you get her?"
"Nothing, I had lunch with her. That made her very happy."
"She sounds great."
"She is the best." I grin and she sighs.
"You have a big family, don't you? I love big families. My mom was an only child; I don't have aunts or uncles either."
Bella never talks about her father. Of course she doesn't. That bastard left her and Jacob. She must have had a pretty low-key childhood. All of her money must have gone in taking care of her brother. And she is someone who would do that. Why is she so selfless?
"Big families just create a mess; especially during holidays."
"That's the fun." She says softly.
After lunch, we decide to order two slices of pie for dessert.
"I have never had pecan pie here." She comments seriously and I chuckle.
"Well, we'll find out how it is then."
"That sounds good too." Her expression is so pensive like it's a life or death situation and it's incredibly endearing.
"I'm glad you think so."
"You really don't have to."
"Yes, I do. How are you possibly going to go back to your store?"
"There are cabs in the city."
I frown.
"What happened to your car?"
"It broke down and Jacob is the one who fixes it but he is at work."
"Do you want me to take a look at it?"
"No, you must have a meeting or some other architectural thing to do."
I suddenly realize that yes, I do. Fuck, I completely forgot about it. I think that's a first.
"Yeah."
Just then my phone rings and it's Victoria so I waste no time in answering it.
"Yes, Victoria?"
"Your rescheduled meeting starts in fifteen minutes."
"I know, I'll be right there. Get Kate, Alex and Dave along with the others. Inform Kate to get the details of Creek Construction as well."
"Yes, sir."
I end the call and find Bella staring at the dashboard intently.
"Hey, what's wrong?"
"Nothing, I just read about it in the newspaper." I chuckle.
Of course she did.
"Yeah, it's kind of a mess."
"What happened?"
I shouldn't tell her but I can't stop myself.
"Well, this construction company is losing its touch, so we decided to end our contract with them for our international projects. We were going to conduct a meeting but somehow the company found out from a third source. Without confirming with us about it, they decided to bad mouth us in the public."
"So, you were going to continue your projects with them?"
"Well, the comparatively smaller ones. But, not anymore. Hence, the meeting. Plus, we are making major changes; I just hope Alex is there on time." I mutter under my breath.
Hopefully he had lunch on time.
"You sound like a big brother."
"I am a couple of months older than him so I am his elder brother. It's just that, he is slightly reliant on me for little things but I wouldn't call him immature. Sometimes I blame myself for that. I guess, I am just very protective of him."
"You shouldn't blame yourself. You are a great brother. You have time for him even though you have so much work to do and troubles of your own."
I smile and stare straight ahead of me. "Well, don't you feel like that sometimes then? You have taken a lot of your brother's troubles on as your own." I say softly and she clears her throat.
"That's, uh, true."
"We're here." I announce and her eyes widen.
"You drive really fast." I laugh and her eyes soften. "Thanks for lunch."
I roll my eyes. "You paid for it."
"Thank you for your time then."
"Anytime, Bella." I press a kiss against her cheek and smile when she reciprocates the gesture. "I'll see you next Wednesday? I'm not in town this weekend."
"I know and yeah, just make sure you tell your assistants." I smile and tuck an errant piece of hair behind her ear. She blushes and looks at me from under her eyelashes.
"I will. Take care."
"Bye, Edward."
Seven more days to go until I see her pretty face…
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Paint the Walls.