THE OTHER WOMAN
DISCLAIMER: STEPHENIE MEYER OWNS IT ALL.
September 26, 2015
BELLA
Edward.
He is the first thought in my head as I stare at Tanya. My heart is wildly beating in my chest and I try to open my mouth but no words escape my lips. Edward is down the hall. All I have to do is shout so he can hear me, but Tanya will have probably shot me by then.
She isn't sober. She is very drunk and disturbed. I make a move to get out of the bed and she points the gun in my direction. I halt.
No!
What do I do? I reach my hand in her direction and she frowns at me and takes a step back which makes her heavily stagger. I hear hurried footsteps approaching and I know them very well. The one person who I know can protect me, save me and love me.
Edward halts behind Tanya and his green eyes widen as he glances at the gun in her hand. His face visibly pales and he holds his breath. He meets my gaze and there is a spark of relief on his features. Tanya, on the other hand, is still dazed and unaware that somebody is standing behind her.
Her dress could make a hooker look like a saint, her hair is an uncombed and disheveled mess and her eyes are blood shot. My tears pause when I look at Edward.
"Tanya? Sweetheart, it's me." Edward says in a soft, loving voice; like he is talking to someone he loves—he talks to me like that.
I bite my bottom lip and tears threaten to spill from my eyes. She gives me an evil smirk and her smile chills me to the bone, but I study them both.
Edward smiles when she turns to him and she throws her arms around his neck, hugging him. His smile instantly disappears, and he moves a little. I watch him throw a shiny, black object in my direction and I frown. It's his phone. He mouths 'Matt' but I'm paralyzed watching them. She is hugging him. He is mine!
His eyes plead me and my shaky fingers finally dial Matt and before the second ring, Matt is standing behind Edward with Demetri in tow. I end the call and watch the scene unfold in front of me.
"Edward, let's go somewhere!" Tanya slurs and hugs him tighter. He folds his arms around her and gently strokes her hair. His other hand reaches for the gun but she shakes her head.
"No, I took it from daddy's bag."
"Can we please keep it away? It's scaring me." She nods and just like that loosens her hold on it.
Edward hides the gun behind his back and I'm pretty sure Matt takes it from him. I sniffle and wipe my runny nose. I can't help the stream of tears as I watch their embrace.
The gun is gone. Edward is safe now. Matt and Demetri are also safe.
But Edward is still intimately hugging her, like he is consoling her after a very bad dream. I don't like it. I am very possessive of him and I can't help but feel jealous of that slut. What is he trying to do?
"Tanya sweetheart, do you want to sleep?" Edward asks softly, and she shakes her head.
"No, stay with me. Don't go to your girlfriend. I love you. Don't go."
"Okay, I won't go."
I weep despite my efforts to understand what situation he has been thrust into. His rejection for me coming from a third source is too much to bear. Am I really that bad of a person to deserve to see this? No, I'm not. His green eyes meet mine and they look tortured.
Tanya struggles but pulls back to look at my boyfriend.
"I like when she cries," She says flatly. "I don't like her. She is a slut and—and a tramp! She makes you smile, I don't like it. I will kill her! You are my boyfriend. I will do anything to keep you with me!" She continues angrily and Edward turns and murmurs something to Matt and Demetri. They disappear immediately.
Edward looks at me. "Bella, give us a minute."
I don't move as my legs have turned into Jell-O. I frown at him and continue gazing at their private embrace. I realize I'm shaking from being cold and fearful as well as from the feeling of loneliness starting to creep inside me.
Tanya talks to Edward about the drugs, how she cheated on him and then insults me a little more. Edward keeps his eyes closed and lets her talk. He mouths something to himself and opens his eyes when we all hear footsteps approaching the room.
I see Matt, Demetri and two other people enter the room dressed in white uniforms. Edward tears himself away from Tanya, despite her attempts to pull him closer. His eyes turn cold and murderous as he stares at her. The two men take hold of her even though she protests and calls for Edward but she is taken away from my sight. I hear her voice echoing through the hallway and it makes me shudder.
There is a moment of silence as Edward and I stare at each other. My eyes calculate the turmoil in his eyes. Seconds pass, minutes pass but neither of us speak. He remains standing in the doorway and I am rooted on the bed. He finally blinks and his eyes fill up with tears and so do mine. He breaks the silence.
"If there is even a little part of you that still loves me after watching that, please come here." He begs softly and his voice is filled with so much love—more than it was when he pretended to be nice to Tanya.
"Oh, Edward," I cry and find the energy to move my legs. I sprint over to him and jump into his open arms. We tightly hug and both let out soft sighs. Edward and I stay in our embrace, hugging and reassuring each other that everything is fine now. I wind my legs around his waist and press my face against the crook of his neck. I close my eyes and breathe him in.
"I love you, Bella. I love you so, so much baby. I'm sorry for everything. Everything." I sob in his arms and shake my head. He smells like whisky, perfume and… Tanya.
"You—you smell like her." I whimper and he tightens his arms around me.
"I can go change, baby."
"No! Don't go."
I pull back and he places his hands on either side of my face and crashes his lips to mine; kissing me with as much passion as he can muster. I moan against his mouth and his tongue tangles with mine. I bury my hands in his soft, copper hair and pull him closer. We pull back when we are absolutely out of breath and lean our foreheads together.
"I love you too, Edward. I'm sorry too, for whatever I said last night. I never meant to say it. I was just mad about everything. I love you. Let's not fight again." My voice breaks and he nods, stroking my cheek.
"We won't, my love," He studies my face. "You look tired. You need some sleep."
"What about you?"
"I have some unfinished business. I'll be in the great room."
I pout and tightly hug him. "I'm not leaving you."
"Baby, trust me, leaving you right now is the last thing I want to do but please give me some time."
"No," I shake my head and hear him sigh. "Please, let me come."
"Please, darling. Listen to me this one time."
I really don't want to make him angry. Plus, I am mentally drained from watching what happened seconds ago. I don't want to argue and he already seems stressed out.
"Okay, but if you don't come back in fifteen minutes, I'll drag you to bed."
He chuckles. "Of course you will."
I pull back and Edward wipes away the tears on my cheeks. I give him a chaste kiss and he smiles softly. He carries me to the bed and I grab a pillow and the necklace he gave me not long ago. He kisses my forehead. I hug the pillow and let out a yawn. He carries me towards his bedroom and I snuggle against his neck.
"Edward, I can walk." I mumble sleepily.
"I know, Bella."
Edward gently lays me on the bed and I open my eyes. He kisses my lips and I take his warm hand in mine. He tucks me under the covers and pecks my cheek.
"Be back soon." I murmur and he nods.
"I will."
I close my eyes and feel him sitting on the edge of the bed. He soothingly strokes my hair as I fall asleep.
I wake up when I hear a loud voice coming from the other side of the house. I open my eyes and listen intently. It's Edward's voice. I check the time on the radio alarm and see that it's three thirty-four in the morning. Oh my god, he has been in the great room for the past hour.
My hand grabs the silk sheet and I wrap it around my body before leaving the bedroom. His voice gets louder as I approach the living room and I peek inside. I find Edward towering over two men who are shaking like leaves. There are eight people in the room.
"Do you really think you're going to get away from this?" Edward speaks softly to the men. It's not the volume of his voice that's chilling, it's the daunting threat in his voice. "I would've killed you myself if there was even a little scratch on my girlfriend."
"Mr. Cullen-" A man standing by the edge of the couch speaks up but stops when Edward gives him a deathly glare.
"You," He says in a clipped tone. "You're fired. Demetri get him out of here."
"Yes, sir."
Jeez, is he firing people at three-thirty in the morning?!
Demetri and the man in black suit walk in my direction and I take few steps back. Demetri meets my gaze and his eyes widen when he finds me standing there. I bite my bottom lip and he gives me a brisk nod before leaving the house with the man in tow.
Six people left in the room.
I stand by the edge of the room and notice Matt patiently standing behind my boyfriend. Edward racks his hand through his hair and groans with a frustrated expression on his handsome face.
"Do you know why I asked my girlfriend to stay here with me?" Edward asks tersely and the man in front of him audibly gulps. "Because I have a fucking security system here. I was under the impression that she'll be safe here but apparently, I was wrong! It-"
"Sir, it was an oversight on our part and we had no idea-"
"I hate when somebody interrupts me while I'm talking!" He roars and the man purses his lips.
I tighten the blanket around me and hold my breath when I see the murderous expression on Edward's face. He looks scary. He was so gentle with me an hour ago. I resist the urge to go over and tell him to stop shouting at people. He'll end up yelling at me too.
"How the fuck did she have the passcode for that fucking gate?! Matt and Luke have repeatedly informed you to never share the passcode of my gates no matter who asks. Not even my own parents!"
He looks over at Matt. "Matt, please get everything out of the conference rooms first thing in the morning. We can renovate it later. Make sure there are no pending jobs left on the estate. If there are, either finish them by this week or cancel them. I need the passcodes changed every single day."
"Yes, Mr. Cullen."
Edward gazes at the group of four people. "I'll have every single person fired if this kind of irresponsible shit happens again, Luke."
"This won't happen again, you have my word."
"Make sure this news doesn't leak to the public. Contact Irina and the hospital Tanya's taken to."
"Sir."
A shiver runs down my spine when I hear her name. I can still picture her standing in that doorway with the gun in her hand. Her hooded eyes held so much hate for me. She hates me because Edward wants to be with me. She must really love him. Or did she want everyone to believe that?
I gasp when I suddenly feel a warm hand on my shoulder. I cautiously turn and sigh with relief when I find Mrs. Cope standing behind me with a warm smile on her face. She gives me a fierce hug and I tightly hug her back. Her touch is so caring and gentle.
"Oh dear, how are you? Are you fine? She didn't hurt you, did she?" Mrs. Cope asks with concern and I shake my head.
"I'm fine. Edward was there."
"Yes, thank god you're okay. I can't believe Tanya would do something like this. This is so shocking."
I pull back and nod at her. She gives my shoulder a soft squeeze and I take a deep breath. She looks past my shoulder and then back at me.
"Edward is so shaken about what happened. I have never seen him this… vulnerable and angry. He will do anything to protect you, trust me."
"I know but he needs some sleep now. It's late."
"You should've seen him when he found out how Tanya got inside the house."
That is the one question that has been bugging me since the moment I saw her. How the hell did she get past the security?
"Did he tell you?"
Mrs. Cope let's out a tired sigh. "Yes, I was there when Luke and Matt were running the security footage."
"Tell me, please."
"You must be aware that Edward has a separate house for conference rooms," I nod at her. "Well, the gate for that house has four guards."
"Did she come from there?"
"Well, the security footage runs every morning at seven. Luke takes care of it. The security had seen Tanya passing by the estate last night so they were asked to keep an eye out on every corner. At seven in the evening, the shifts change and the night guards were an hour late. There was nobody at the back gate and the footage showed Tanya stumbling inside with a bottle of alcohol in her hand."
My heart stops. "Where did she go?"
"She was in one of the conference rooms until late and that house was kept unlocked due to the renovation. The man in-charge of the conference rooms-who Edward just fired-went off to run a personal errand without informing anybody."
"B-But, how did she get to the guest bedroom?"
"There is a door that connects the conference rooms to this house. Tanya knows about it, after all she was a frequent visitor here."
I don't like the thought of that. She used to spend the night here… with Edward. For a month! And five months before at his old apartment. She probably knows Edward more than I do. I've known him for not more than three months. Did she sleep in his bedroom like I do? I shake my head and get rid of the disturbing thoughts.
"What about the passcode?" I ask and my voice is nothing but a whisper.
"The passcodes get changed every month and Tanya was here last month when Edward was in Dubai. She came over as soon as her flight from Paris landed here. She was his girlfriend and there was nothing the security could do to deny her back then. She asked for the passcodes and the staff refused so she threatened to have them all fired."
"Did Edward know about this all? That she stayed here in his absence and took the security details?"
Mrs. Cope lets out a loud sigh. "Why do you think he is furious? It was just an unfortunate coincidence. A little mistake from everyone's part would've have cost your life."
Her words hit me like a ton of bricks. It would have cost my life. If the bottle from her hand had never broken, I would be probably be in ER right now. She would've shot me and left me to die. Because Edward destroyed her family and made her homeless. He did that all so he could be with me.
My eyes race over to him and I realize he feels guilty for not protecting me. We have been through a lot so we can finally be together and we haven't had enough time. Just a week. I turn to Mrs. Cope when I realize she is speaking to me.
"… will come to bed soon. Get some sleep." She says and strokes my arm before going upstairs to her bedroom.
I turn to my boyfriend and my eyes fill with tears as I gaze at him. I need him right now. It has been a long, exhausting night and I don't want to think about it. A tear trickles down my cheek and I wipe it with the back of my hand.
I tighten the blanket around me and walk in Edward's direction. His green eyes regard me with surprise and he lets out a disapproving sigh. His expression softens when he sees the tears glistening in my eyes and I slam myself into his arms.
A sob escapes my chest due to the familiarity of his arms wrapping around me. I feel him press his face against my hair and take a deep breath. I fold my arms around him and snuggle against his neck.
"Hey, don't cry. Hush, baby. Please calm down," He coos softly and I whimper softly. "And why aren't you in bed?"
"I can't sleep without you. Not tonight," I shake my head. "You can shout your head off tomorrow morning but stay with me for now."
"Okay love," He strokes my hair and tightens his other arm around me. "Luke."
I hear footsteps leaving the great room and I pull back to look at his handsome face. I stroke his cheek and he takes my hand in his. I peck his lips and sigh softly.
"Thank you." I murmur and he touches his forehead to mine.
"Just us, I promise." He kisses the back of my hand and wipes away my tears. We quietly stare at each other until I break the silence.
"Mrs. Cope told me everything." I say and his eyes tighten a little.
"Oh."
He closes his eyes and takes a shaky breath. I stroke his hair and patiently stare at him. My fingers trace the outline of his face and he opens his eyes. I gasp softly when I see his gorgeous eyes sparkling with tears.
"Edward honey, it's fine now."
"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, Bella. She was five steps away from you," His voice breaks. "She had a gun. I don't know what would've happened if I had been even a minute later. I-I can't imagine my life without you in it."
"You have no idea how safe I feel when I am with you. I feel stronger and calmer with you," I tell him earnestly and he nods.
"Please tell me if you want something." He says looking into my eyes and I frown.
"What do you mean? You know I don't want anything to do with your money."
He snakes his arms around my waist. "I'm not talking about that. I'm talking about… you moving in with me, or if you want to have a lavish wedding or if you want babies. Anytime you want those things… I want them too."
Wow. Can I see myself living here with him? Or walking down the aisle towards him? Yes, but now is not the time. And babies? Oh dear, too soon for kids. But at least the dark cloud looming over us has dissipated.
"Don't you think it's too soon for any of that?" I whisper and he runs his nose down mine.
"It is, but don't hesitate to tell me if you want it all. Because I want it too."
I blush and kiss his cheek. "I know you do."
"But, you can move in with me right away if you want." He shrugs and I giggle, shaking my head. I relax against him and smile.
"You are not going to give up on that, are you?"
"Nope," He kisses my lips soundly. "How can I convince you?"
"Well," I sigh and gaze at him from under my lashes. "I won't say no if you ask me in the most romantic way possible."
"Hmm, I'll look into that." He gives me a thoughtful smile.
"And, while we are on the subject of talking about the future, I want cute little boys that are just like you."
He chuckles. "Then our kids are going to be a handful, trust me."
"If I can handle you, I'm sure the kids won't be a problem."
"If you say so," He brushes his thumb against my bottom lip.
I grab his hand and press it against my cheek. My smile dies down and I look deep into his eyes. "Can I ask something?"
"Anything, baby."
"When I saw Tanya, there was a possibility that she could've… used the gun on me," I mutter and he pulls me flush against him. "Anyway, my point is that we should never go to bed angry with each other. We should talk about the issue and work it out. Neither of us would've forgiven ourselves if things would've taken a turn for the worst tonight."
"Of course," Edward hugs me and I hide my face against his shoulder. "I promise, Bella."
"Thank you."
We remain wrapped in our embrace and I don't want the comfortable silence to end. In times like these, all I need is my boyfriend to hold me. Despite my efforts to stay awake, I let out a yawn.
"Let's go to bed, love."
Edward lifts me in his arms and I roll my eyes. Why does he like to carry me everywhere? It's not like I'm light as a feather. But, I like being in his arms. I tighten my arms around his neck and kiss his jawline.
"Why do you like to carry me?" I murmur and caress his face with my hands.
"It's the closest way I can hold you while I walk," My heart melts hearing that. "Also, you walk really slowly."
My smile instantly disappears, and he laughs softly. Oh, I love to hear his unbridled laughter.
"I hate you so much, Edward Cullen."
I wake up to the sound of rainfall and someone's soft breathing against my hair. The air is cold against my face but my body is snugly wrapped up in the duvet. The events from yesterday come crashing down on me like a wrecking ball.
I had spoken to Will and Alice in the morning, baked a lot of cookies, Tanya had called Edward, Edward and I had had a fight, I had slept in the guest room and Tanya… Ah! Tanya had been here; drunk and heavily on drugs.
My eyes snap open and I realize my hands are balled up in tight fists against the duvet. I loosen my grip and turn to my right and find vibrant, merry green eyes staring at me. Edward is in a good mood. Not only is he in a good mood, holy shit! He just has a towel wrapped around his waist. Wow, I could wake up and get used to this sight every day.
"Morning, beautiful." Edward whispers, stroking my hair as his lips curl into a panty-dropping crooked smile.
"Good morning, handsome. How did you sleep?"
"Very well after my girlfriend came back to bed with me." I smile and he wraps me in his arms. I blush and trace idle patterns on his smooth chest with my index finger.
"So did she. And why are you so overdressed?" I ask.
"Well, I was on my way to the sauna but you looked so beautiful, I ended up staring at your face," I blush crimson and he chuckles, brushing his hand against my heated cheek. "God, I love your blush."
"Thank you. What time is it?" I mumble shyly.
"It's ten-thirty. I let you sleep in."
"And how long have you been staring at me?"
"Fifty minutes, I think." He says coolly and I bite my bottom lip. He isn't normal.
"You really have issues."
"I could stare at you for hours. It's a shame you woke up."
"You prefer me unconscious?" He laughs and presses a soft kiss on top of my head.
"No, my love. It's hard to concentrate when your eyes stare at me like they are right now. It makes me want to get you out of my t-shirt and make love to you."
"Then do that." I say and grab the hem of the t-shirt.
Edward shakes his head. "We don't have time. There are people coming from the American Institute of Architecture to take pictures of my home."
I frown. "Why?"
"It's the best home design of the year. It's getting an award on October 25."
I gasp with delight and feel so proud of him. I wrap my arms around him and tackle him for a big hug. He laughs and presses his face against my hair.
"Oh, I'm so happy for you!"
"Thank you, Bella. I really appreciate your enthusiasm."
I blush and close my eyes. "I'm so proud of you," I stroke his hair and he sighs softly. "I love you."
"I love you too, Bella."
We stay in our embrace for a while until I pull back to look at him.
"Can I join you in the sauna?" I ask and he grins, nodding his head. He brushes the stray hair away from my face and kisses my cheek.
"Of course, baby." I nod and peck his lips.
I quickly brush my teeth, wrap a towel around me that falls to my upper thighs, and leave for the sauna. I stumble into Demetri in the passageway and he looks away taking in my attire.
Oh god, this is so embarrassing. I rush to the sauna connected to the gym. It smells like fresh birch and natural tar. It's so sexy. I find Edward humming a song under his breath as he fiddles with the electric pad. I see a glass encased shower next to the sauna and sigh softly. His house is so perfect.
"Love, can you lock the door?"
I lock the door to the gym and walk over to where my boyfriend is. He pulls me in his arms and connects our lips for a searing kiss. I moan softly and he smiles, playfully biting my bottom lip. We pull back to breathe, and he draws me flush against him.
I take off my flip flops, and find his green eyes staring at me appreciatively, making me blush. We hear a small buzz behind us and he smiles, taking my hand in his.
Instead of stepping inside the sauna, he leads me to the loveseat and makes me sit. I see four water bottles on the coffee table and I gaze at him.
"Drink two." He says and takes hold of a bottle. He gulps the water and I follow suit. A trail of water leaves his lips, rolls down his neck and towards his chest which makes me squirm. I had no idea water could be so erotic. He patiently waits as I finish drinking water from the second bottle.
"Do you drink before you go in every time?" I ask as we enter the sauna. It looks like any other high-end sauna I have seen on TV. There is an L-shaped wooden bench covered with towels and a sauna heater right next to the door. The bench faces the water wall and I smile staring at it.
"The water keeps you hydrated in the dry heat," He murmurs and turns me in his arms. "Come on, sit."
Edward and I take a seat and he tucks me under his arm. I rest my head on his shoulder and interlace our hands together.
"Edward, why were you so mad at me on Thursday? Was it really because I went back to my apartment?"
"Bella," He sighs softly and kisses my forehead. "Love, Riley isn't stable."
"Tanya isn't either." I point out and he lets out a tired chuckle.
"We really know how to pick them, huh?" I giggle and look up at him. He strokes my cheek. "Riley is suffering from a delusional disorder called Erotomania," My eyes widen. "He thinks you are in love with him."
I gasp and he nuzzles against my hair. Oh my god. I don't know what to think. Or say. Riley thinks I'm in love with him? This is the reason why he keeps coming back for me? He wants me. He loves me. How the hell am I going to keep him away?
"He has a type 1 bipolar disorder which manifested after his wife's death. He is obsessed with you… which would be an understatement." He mutters the latter part under his breath.
"I don't love him, why does he follow me?"
Edward turns and cradles my face in his hands. "He thinks that you send him signals."
"What signals?" I ask, puzzled.
"W-When you tuck your hair behind your ear… he uh thinks that you are declaring your love for him."
Tears prick my eyes and I can't believe something so habitual makes Riley think that I love him. I can't believe I spent time with him. I let him touch me… kiss me. I feel disgusted with myself. How could I have been so careless?
"Baby?" Edward says softly and I meet his worried gaze. "We can talk about this later."
"No, tell me everything."
He continues. "Riley thinks that you are pretending to be with me, because you want to keep your relationship with him a secret from everyone."
"You know that's not true, right?" I ask him frantically. "What he thinks is not true! I love you, Edward. I-I really don't want him. I never wanted him. Please believe me. I don't want him! I hate him!"
"Hush, baby," Edward says soothingly and I try to calm my erratic heart. "Settle down. I know you don't want him. I know this is all overwhelming and shocking to hear. I felt the same way when I first heard it."
"Edward, I'm scared. What if he tries to hurt you?" I whimper and he kisses my forehead.
"Nobody can take me from you," I nod. "Shall I continue?"
"Okay." I hide my face against his chest and close my eyes. His arms hug me to him and I feel safe.
"Riley saw you two years ago, at a club. Do you remember meeting him?"
"No, we met at Angela's anniversary party in January for the first time. I had never seen him before then."
"Are you sure, Bella?"
"I'm sure." I say vehemently.
"Well, you must have not noticed him. He became friends with Ben and Angela to get to know you. He knew you were close to your friends."
"I would've never thought that."
"But he did. Riley suggested to Angela that he should go on a date with you and you did."
"He did that all for me? Really? I mean, I'm nothing. There are so many girls out there much better than me."
Edward sighs against my hair. "You are saying this to the man who thinks you are the most beautiful woman in the world."
I blush despite my anxiety. "Did he just randomly pick me to become obsessed with?"
"Perhaps."
"Oh."
He takes my hand in his and kisses my fingers. "Do you recall telling me that his guest room was always locked?"
I clear my throat. "Yeah."
"The room is filled with pictures of you. On every fucking corner of the room. Everywhere," My breathing hitches in my throat. "He has videotapes of you walking down the street or speaking to a customer. I don't know how, but he does."
"You should've told me this sooner."
"I wanted to keep you safe. But, you went back to your apartment. And I almost died when you said the room was filled with violets."
"What's wrong with violets?"
"The other thing about Riley is that he knows everything about flowers. He has dozens of books on flowers… and the most basic thing about violets is that, it is the state flower of Illinois," I gasp. "He knew I was in Chicago, he knew you would go back to your apartment. And you did. He knows you well, and that scared me. I was mad at you, I was mad at me for leaving you and I was mad at everyone. I'm so sorry, baby."
"I'm sorry too. I had no idea, Edward. But, why didn't you tell me about this? I want to be angry with you but I don't want to fight again."
"In the future, I won't keep any information from you, if it's something you need to know. I promise."
I sigh and nod at him. "Okay."
"I've appointed Demetri to watch over you since Tuesday. He is keeping an eye on everything. I told him to take you home but you just wouldn't go. Ugh, you are the most annoying, demanding little thing I know." He says bitterly and I peck his lips, softening his glare.
"I was very nervous yesterday, so I baked a mountain of cookies."
Edward laughs and tightly hugs me. "I know, love. I was able to gauge your mood when I saw the security guards eating cookies instead of doing their job. When I entered the house, it smelled like cookies. But, I was mad beyond oblivion."
"I won't go back to my apartment, I won't." I promise him and he sighs.
"I don't want you to cut off the other part of your life for me. The apartment is safe now and Demetri will be with you at all times. Don't worry."
"We need a distraction from this." I mutter and he kisses my hair.
"I can remedy that. Are you free tomorrow?"
"Yeah. Why?"
"There is a charity dinner that I am sponsoring and I am supposed to make an appearance but I hadn't confirmed it. If you want, we could go."
"What is the dinner for?"
"To raise money for the children in the Seattle Foster Care System."
"That sounds like a noble cause."
"Will you come?"
"Does it involve dancing?"
"No."
"I'm there then."
Edward chuckles. "Okay."
I groan and hide my face against his shoulder. "Cocktail dress or gown?"
"Wear something sexy."
I blush and peck his lips. "Okay."
"I'd prefer it if you wore a gown." He mutters and turns his back to me. I laugh when he puts his head on my lap and lies on the bench. He closes his eyes and I trace his facial features with my fingertips. He is so perfect.
"Ursula has stocked some gorgeous gowns for me."
"You'll look beautiful no matter what you wear," He suddenly has a reminiscent smile on his face. "You were wearing a midnight blue dress the first time we met."
My eyes widen when I realize something. "Is that why it's your favorite color?"
"Yes, it's kind of special." He opens his eyes and chuckles at my blushing face.
"Very flattering, Cullen. Thank you." I brush my thumb against his bottom lip.
"No problem." He puckers his lips and kisses my thumb. I smile and circle my index finger on his lips and he opens his mouth and playfully bites on it. I giggle and take my hand away.
"I wish we could stay away from all of our problems for once and have time to ourselves." I murmur, stroking his hair and he gives me a thoughtful look. "But, that's not going to happen for the next two weeks."
"Maybe after that." He suggests softly and I nod. "Bella, I want to know something and be very honest."
My heart skips a beat. "What is it?"
"Please, don't get mad."
"Ask me."
"Did you and Riley have sex while you were dating?"
"Yes," I murmur and his eyes tighten but he remains quiet. "Just once." I add and he relaxes a little.
"Oh."
"Why do you ask?"
He rolls away and buries his face against my lap. "Nothing, I was just wondering." He mumbles into the towel.
"Does it really matter?'
"It doesn't, I guess."
"Then why did you ask?"
I really want to know!
"I thought that maybe you hadn't." He finally admits and I sigh, stroking his back.
"I'm sorry, but it's not like you didn't have sex with Tanya even after we met."
"Not once," Wow. "We barely kissed."
Now I feel bad.
"I had no idea."
"I didn't mean to make you feel guilty," He turns to face me and smiles. "I was just curious."
"Curiosity killed the cat." I repeat his words from last night.
"Ignorance killed the cat, curiosity was framed," He retorts and I chuckle, making him laugh. "You looked so cute when you were jealous last night."
I glare at him. "I was not."
"It's okay, I love you."
"I love you too." I lean down and kiss his forehead.
We stay in our bubble for I don't know how long as Edward shares how much fun he had with his family in Chicago. He looks so young and carefree when he is happy.
I suddenly start to feel a little dizzy and nauseous. Edward frowns as he gazes at me and sits up. He takes my hand in his and kisses my cheek. "Let's get out, Bella. It's been more than twenty minutes, and you are bound to get lightheaded."
Edward helps me stand up, and puts a towel on me and then dons one of his own as we exit the sauna. He makes me sit on the loveseat and grabs four small water bottles from the cooler. He puts them on the coffee table and kneels in front of me. I reach for one of the bottles but he stops me.
"Wait for a minute or two, love," I can feel sweat rolling off both Edward and me in waves and steam coming off our bodies. He leans his forehead against mine and sighs. "I'm so sorry, it completely slipped my mind that it was your first time in a sauna."
I manage a weak smile on my face. "It's okay."
A couple of minutes later, I inhale the water and feel better. I close my eyes and take a deep breath. I get comfortable on the loveseat and feel his fingers wiping the sweat from my face. I open my eyes and find his green ones staring at me intensely.
"Hey, Bella."
"Hi."
I pat the space next to me and Edward takes a seat. He tugs on my hand and pulls me onto his lap. I curl up and hope my stomach stops churning.
"Nauseous?" I nod and he rocks me gently for a bit. I start to feel better and Edward smiles at me. His hand strokes my back and the other one caresses my cheek. "How about a shower? It will help you feel better."
I get off his lap and follow him to the glass encased shower. Edward takes off our towels and turns on the shower. The warm water drizzles on our sweaty, hot bodies and I sigh. He wraps his arms around me and nuzzles against my neck.
"Why don't you feel sick?" I ask and he chuckles.
"That only happens if you exceed twenty minutes in the beginning." He mumbles and kisses my neck.
"We should do it again sometime."
"Sounds like a plan. Maybe we'll have a quickie in there before heading off to work," He says suggestively and I frown. "Hey, what is it?"
"Yeah, I just…" I sigh. "I have nothing to do. And nowhere to go for work."
"Do you want to know what we're doing with your store?" I nod immediately. "Maybe, I'll call Tia. You can meet her."
"I would really like to meet her. When should we do that?"
"Tonight? Then we can have a romantic dinner date afterward. What are you in the mood for?"
"Italian, maybe?"
"Italian, it is then. I'll make dinner reservations. Later we can come back home and do something." I blush and stare at him from under my lashes.
"Something?" I ask breathlessly as his hot breath fans across my ear.
"I remember my girlfriend talking about sex swings." My eyes turn wide as saucers and I look up at him.
"What?"
I moan when his teeth grazes against the shell of my ear.
"A sex swing." He murmurs against my lips and rubs his lips against mine.
"You have a sex swing?" I can't help the shock in my voice.
"I do. Interested?"
"Very much," My eyes meet his smoldering ones and I give him a chaste kiss. "Where do you keep it?"
"I haven't installed it yet. It's portable. You'll see."
"A sex swing sounds really hot." I murmur and he hums against my lips, kissing them softly.
"Who knew Bella Swan was into kinky sex?" I giggle against his lips and he pushes me against the glass wall.
"I love you."
"I love you too," He murmurs and passionately crashes his lips against mine. He raises my left leg and hitches it above his hip. His erection presses against my sex and I whimper softly. "God, I've missed you."
"I've missed you too."
I gasp when Edward pounds into me and leaves me breathless. I hold onto him as he plunges in and out of me and press my lips against his, letting his warm tongue tangle with mine. I rock my hips to meet his thrusts but he is in completely in control today. He pushes me against the wall and thrusts into me as hard as he can.
"Oh baby, fuck you are so tight." He says huskily and trails searing kisses against the side of my neck.
My left leg stays put on the floor and the other one pushes his hips into mine. Our lips connect again for a fierce, urgent kiss as we move against each other. I love our intense make-up sex session.
His mouth connects against my neck and I can feel the familiar pressure building inside me. He gently bites against my skin and I moan loudly. He touches his forehead to mine and continues pounding into me. I wrap my arms around his neck and tug on his hair. I drag my nails against his back and he shudders lightly. His eyes meet mine and they are dark with lust and want.
"Come with me, Bella," He growls softly and I can feel us approaching our mutually mind-blowing orgasms. "Now!" He whispers breathlessly and we convulse around each other. My body trembles from the ecstatic sensation and I try to calm down from the heightened emotion I feel.
"I love you." Edward says, pulling out of me and he leads me back under the shower.
He grabs the shower gel and squirts some onto one of the bath sponges and tenderly lathers my body with soap. The aroma of patchouli wafts around me. The fragrance is heavenly.
"Turn around," I turn away and close my eyes as his hands deftly knead my back and foam my behind. "Your skin is so soft; it's pale and flawless."
"Thank you, Edward. Are you trying to flatter me for another round of sex?"
He laughs and I smile at that sound. "Oh baby, you wish."
"Oh really? But I can feel it." I back up against him and rub myself against his growing member.
"Bella, don't. We have guests coming over soon," I sigh with disappointment. "You should probably worry about the sex swing that you're going to be in to tonight."
Believe me, I am.
I turn off the blow dryer and quickly put on my dress. It's white and blue floral printed with long sleeves and buttoned cuffs. It falls above my knees and the length is flattering and chic. The dress is a perfect fit. I love it.
Edward knocks on the door and enters with a smile on his face. God, he looks handsome in his white shirt, gray sweater and blue denim chinos.
"You look great, baby." He says softly and kisses my lips.
I blush and give him a shy smile. "Thank you. Can you zip me up?"
"Of course."
I turn around and he pulls the zipper up in seconds. He sits on the loveseat and ties up the laces of his white sneakers. There is a knock on the door and I answer it.
"Ms. Swan, the people from the AIA are here to meet Mr. Cullen." Matt says and I nod at him. Edward walks over to me and wraps an arm around my waist.
"Alright, show them to the great room. I'll be right with you." Edward says and Matt strides away.
Edward smiles at me.
"Love, are you ready?"
"My shoes are in the bedroom."
"Be quick, I want to introduce my beautiful girlfriend to everyone."
I give him a chaste kiss and leave for his bedroom. I see Matt escorting four intimidating people into the great room as I walk past them towards the other section of the house. I go to the walk-in closet and put on a pair of white flats.
I brush my hair and apply a hint of Chapstick and mascara before leaving for the great room. God, I am going to lose a lot of weight just walking around here. I hear laughter coming from the great room and see Matt standing behind the sofa where Edward sits with his back to me.
Four pairs of eyes turn to me and I blush crimson from the attention. Edward turns with a knowing look and offers me that sexy smile of his. He stands up and the others rise to their feet. He folds an arm around my waist and places his hand on my hip.
"Bella, these are the representatives from the AIA I mentioned before," He says to me. "This is Mr. Jeff Porter, Mr. George Miller, Mr. Chester Windom and Ms. Eugene Hopkins." I smile politely and shake each of their hands. I notice Ms. Hopkins staring at me with a hint of envy in her eyes. She is probably an old bitch trying to hit on my boyfriend. "Everyone, this is my lovely girlfriend, Bella Swan."
"It's nice to meet you all." I say with a warm smile and everyone settles onto their seats.
Mrs. Cope walks in with a tray of steaming coffee mugs and a plate full of the cookies that I made. I blush just as Edward kisses my cheek and his lips curl into a smile. Edward and I are the last ones to grab a mug and he takes a bite of the chocolate chip cookies. He beams at me.
"These are the tastiest cookies I've had in a long time." He murmurs silkily and I blush redder. I say a quiet thank you and drink my coffee.
Edward indulges in a conversation about his house; detailing for them the elevations, structure, interiors and his proud as punch garden. I resist the urge to glare at the woman trying to subtly flirt with my boyfriend, and in front of me no less!
When the mugs are empty and the cookies are devoured, Mrs. Cope emerges to carry the tray back to the kitchen.
"The cookies were delicious." Ms. Too-Old-To-Flirt says to Mrs. Cope.
"Oh," Mrs. Cope smiles and gazes at me. "Ms. Swan made these last night."
Edward smiles and I shift closer to him when the attention is diverted to me after Mrs. Cope leaves.
"The cookies were absolutely delicious, Ms. Swan." The half-bald man says to me and the corner of his eyes crinkle as he beams at me.
"Thank you."
"There is never a dull day in the kitchen when Bella is around." Edward says smugly and I smile at him like an idiot. We finally break our gaze when we hear a throat clearing from Ms. Too-Old-To-Flirt.
"I hear your projects are tough competition this year, Mr. Cullen."
Edward chuckles. "They aren't specifically mine, it was a team effort. We received some challenging projects, and I am blessed with the best team I could ask for. I hear the Architectural Review winners are to be announced soon."
"They are planning to postpone announcing the winners until the AIA awards are over. But, that's going to take a lot of time." She says huskily, trying to sound sexy and I try not to cringe. She must have a kid going to high school; why the hell is she flirting with my man?
"Yes, I'm hoping that Alex wins the Green Good Design award for the IAA. He has worked very hard on the projects and they have come a long way under his guidance. I'm certain he is going to win, despite his saying that he won't."
"I'm sure, Mr. Platt will win but I hear you will be bagging a couple of awards too."
Edward sighs by my side. "I'm not really concerned about awards, I'm just glad that the projects were all very well received."
"The theater looked so unreal and the residential complex in Houston was amazing. And you have to give yourself credit for the new airport that was built in Beijing. I mean its state of the art." She gushes and Edward looks embarrassed from all the praise.
"Thank you."
"Will you be attending the AIA awards this year?" She asks and I hear the hope in her voice.
"Perhaps, but only if my girlfriend agrees." He jokes gazing at me and I smile.
"I'll think about it, Mr. Cullen." I say and keep my hand on his knee.
"You have your answer, Ms. Eugene." Edward says and Ms. Too-Old-To-Flirt gives me a fake smile.
Everyone starts an intense discussion about the convention taking place on November 3 in which Edward will be giving the keynote speech. I thought these people were here to get a tour of the house. I'd rather curl up with a book right now. I guess they have to wait until the professional photographers arrive.
About twenty minutes later, two men walk in with camera equipment and everyone stands up. The guests follow Matt as he takes them towards the basement and I turn to follow them but Edward catches my elbow. He spins me in his arms and pulls me closer.
"Where are you going?" I shrug. "Don't you want another tour of my house?" I shake my head and he chuckles.
Edward sits on the sofa and pulls me onto his lap. He nuzzles against my neck and I smile.
"Shouldn't you be the one showing them around?" I ask and stroke his sweater.
He sighs. "I didn't agree to have the photos clicked in the first place."
I frown. "Why not?"
"It's my private space," He murmurs and kisses my lips. "It's our private space. I don't feel comfortable showing it to everyone."
"But it's a beautiful home, baby. People should know how smartly you've designed it, plus it might help someone generate new ideas for their project."
"Yes, it might. That's why I agreed. But on a condition that I won't be a part of the shoot. That's why I am distancing myself from it."
"Okay." I smile.
"Will you come to the awards as my date?"
"October 25?" He nods. "Where are they?"
"New Orleans."
"I'll accompany you," I kiss his lips soundly. "How many awards are you winning?"
"I don't know. I want to go to support Alex this time."
"I thought you worked together on the projects."
"Yes but he has worked really hard this time."
"And where is your convention?"
"Orlando."
"Oh." I close my eyes and lean against him.
"Hungry, love?"
"For what?" I open my eyes and he gives me an impish grin.
"Food."
"Yes! I haven't had anything substantial since our half-eaten dinner last night."
"I don't think lunch is ready yet. But, I can ask Mrs. Cope to fix you a sandwich."
"I would like that. Thank you."
"Give me five minutes."
I stand up and he leaves for the kitchen. I wait and he comes back ten minutes later holding a sandwich box. He takes my hand in his and kisses my knuckles.
"Did I mention that you look beautiful today?"
I blush and kiss his cheek. "You did and thank you again. You look very handsome as well."
He laughs and wraps his arms around my waist. "Come on, we'll sit outdoors today."
I interlace our hands and we go outside towards the open lounge area. We climb the staircase and sit on the wall mounted couch.
"I love this couch, it's so plush." I say softly and he smiles.
"Maybe we can sleep here tonight." He motions to the bigger couch adjacent to ours. I shake my head.
"Not tonight," I smile and rest my head on his shoulder. Edward kisses my hair and lays his head atop mine. I open the sandwich box and take a bite of my snack. I moan softly. "This turkey sandwich is delicious."
"I'm glad you like it."
"Mrs. Cope makes the best food."
"That's why she is here. She is cooking her famous Italian lasagna for lunch, it's heavenly."
"Okay, now I'm really excited."
"You make delicious food too, Bella," I shrug and he tips my chin up to look at him. "Come on, I loved that turkey, pork and cranberry pie you made on Tuesday. It was the tastiest pie I have ever had."
"Really?"
"Of course, baby," He gives me a chaste kiss. "There is no competition with what you cook. I love your cooking," I bite my bottom lip and resist the urge of telling him the thought that has been floating in my mind from the last couple of days. "What is it, love?"
"I uh, think that maybe I should write a cookbook."
A smile lights up his face and he nods at me. "That sounds great, baby! I'm glad we are talking about this. I mean, your store will be under construction for a couple of months and you have enough time to research it. Do you want to someone to help? I know a couple of people from mom's circle who can help. Hold on, let me just make a quick call." He mutters and pulls out his phone.
"Edward, I'm fine for now. Maybe I need to gather few thoughts regarding this decision before starting." He frowns and stares at his phone adorably.
He nods. "Okay." He murmurs quietly.
"Oh baby, it is so sweet of you that you want to help me but I'll make an affirmative decision in the next few days. Will that do?" I ask and fold my hands behind his neck.
"Yes, I want to help." He pouts and I smile, brushing my lips against his.
"I know you do, sweetie. You'll be the first person to know."
Edward makes me sit astride his lap and thoroughly kisses my lips. I whimper when he bites on my bottom lip and gently tugs on it. He puts his hands on my hips and pulls me flush against him. We kiss for a long time and stay in our embrace, uncaring of what is happening around us. I pull back and breathe and lean my forehead against his. I frown when I see a movement out of my periphery.
Edward and I turn towards the pool and find the people from the AIA staring at us with their mouths hanging open on the pool deck. Matt looks red-faced and the photographers resume taking pictures of the garden. I blush as red as I can and sit at a distance from Edward. He runs a hand through his hair and gives me the sandwich box again. He stands up and straightens his sweater.
"I think we need to switch places."
I quietly follow him and avoid eye-contact with the audience as we walk back to the entrance courtyard. Edward clasps his hand with mine and I see an impish grin on his face.
"That was the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to me."
"Come on, it was fun." I slap his arm lightly and walk past him.
Seriously?
I cross my arms over my chest and swat the hand creeping towards my stomach. Edward presses his body against mine and I feel his hot breath fanning the back of my neck. I sigh softly when he kisses my sensitive skin. I try to avoid the desire that resonates in my body from his touch. He wraps his arms around my stomach and pulls me back to his chest. He buries his nose against my hair and takes a deep breath.
Edward is being very exasperating tonight but I know I'm safe next to him. And also because Demetri Bryan is standing a few feet away trying to subtly ignore us. Well, he should. It's necessary when his boss is behaving out of character. I reach for my white coat in his hands but he shakes his head.
I stifle a moan when he showers my shoulder with soft kisses. He really likes that my dress is off-the-shoulder. It's an ice blue silk dress with thread-work and hand embroidered crystal flower buds. I have matched it with a pair of white pumps.
I shake my thoughts off Edward and take a good look at my bookstore. Somehow, it looks different now. There are no customers around or Seth and Paul flirting with girls. The gift wrapping counter is empty and the billing counter is deserted. I bite my bottom lip and realize it's never going to be the same way again.
I guess you really don't know when it's going to be your last time with everyone at your bookstore.
"It's okay." Edward murmurs soothingly in my ear and I turn in his arms. I tightly hug him and press my face against his chest. He kisses my hair and rocks me a little.
"I'm going to miss this store." I say brokenly and he pulls back to look at me.
"This store isn't going anywhere, my love. It's going to be better than ever. You want that, don't you?" I nod and he wipes away the hint of tears around my eyes.
"I don't want to let this one go, though."
"We can keep it the same way if you want; I have no problem with that. But you are the one who wanted to change it." I nod and he rubs my back.
"I do want to."
"You need to choose your battles, baby. It's going to be the best bookstore in town."
"Thank you." I sigh softly and hug him.
"No problem."
My grandma would be happy. She always wanted to change the look of the store. She never wanted me to get stuck with it, but I needed the money. I know she must be disappointed that I am still running the store but there is nothing else I can do.
"Edward? Can I ask you something?"
"Anything, love."
I pull back to look at him and he studies my expression for a moment. He makes me sit on the chair at the billing counter and kneels in front of me.
"Was it difficult to study architecture when you wanted to be a pianist?"
Edward gives me a smile. "Surprisingly, no. I was very passionate about it."
"Is it too late to make a career for myself?"
"What are you talking about?" He kisses the back of my hand.
"I have a degree in English Literature that I have never used."
"Why did you pursue that degree?"
"Because I love reading and writing. It interests me," I shrug. "I was offered positions at a couple of publishing houses too. Scholastic, Hachette, and Tyndale." I murmur softly and Edward sighs tiredly and presses his face against my knee.
"Oh Bella, you should've accepted the offers. Why didn't you?" He asks and I bite my bottom lip.
"Jake was in high school and I couldn't leave him. There was nobody to handle the store after Grandma passed away. I got stuck with it."
He gazes at me and his eyes look calculating. "You never wanted this store," He says and realization is clear in his eyes. "You just wanted to work here because it was your grandmother's?" I nod and tears gather in my eyes.
"I'm sorry."
"What are you sorry about?" He frowns and hugs me. I wrap my arms around him and close my eyes.
"You re-designed this bookstore for me and I'm talking about how I never wanted it."
"It's not like we aren't going to reconstruct it. You love it, don't you?" I nod, because I really do. "I love it too. And it's mine now; I'll do whatever I want with it."
I laugh softly and he smiles, stroking my cheek.
"That sounds fair."
"We'll just have to find someone who can help you handle it."
I frown. "What? I can manage the bookstore on my own."
"No you will not. You will do something that you love in addition to running it."
"What do you mean?"
"Come on, close your eyes," Edward murmurs and I do as he says. My senses get heightened and I feel his hot breath mingling with mine and his hands tenderly cradling my face. "What is the first thought that comes to your mind?" I concentrate and his face pops in front of my mind's eye.
"You." I say and his lips meet mine for a sweet kiss.
"You are my first thought too, Bella. But, we are looking for something else. Something that always inspires you, soothes you, calms you down. You feel confident doing it and you are happy. What can you see?"
I recall the numerous times I've invited people over for brunch, lunch and dinners. I have a lot of fun when I cook. I don't dance on any other occasion except when I am cooking. I am always in control of everything when I am in the kitchen. Perhaps, Edward is right. I shouldn't be managing a bookstore full time. I need to do something I love too.
"What is it?" Edward asks softly and I open my eyes to look into his mesmerizing green ones. His face has a knowing look and I smile at him. "I guess you should start working on that cookbook."
"How did you know?"
"That smile gave you away," I blush, and he shakes his head. "We met because of a cookbook, if you remember."
"The Mystery Writers of America." I say and he chuckles.
"Has it been three months already?"
"Yes, and they have been the best three months of my life."
"I feel the same way."
"You look so heartbreakingly beautiful tonight. I just can't stop staring at you." He murmurs and I give him a chaste kiss.
"I have to keep up with my handsome boyfriend." I stroke his hair and he nods.
"If you say so."
Edward stands up and I follow suit. I look outside and see the drizzling rain which makes me sigh.
"What time are our dinner reservations?"
"Not for another ninety minutes," I nod and he continues staring at me. "Why?"
"Nothing, you just look so beautiful." I blush deeper and look away.
"Will you stop?"
"Your hair looks lovely tonight." He runs his index finger over my messy braided bun.
"Thank you."
"It shows off your neck." His thumb strokes the back of my neck and I smile, closing my eyes as his seductive touch leaves me breathless. "I love your dress and shoes."
I open my eyes and tremble a little when his hands caress my shoulders. He runs his nose down mine and I take a shaky breath. He drags his lips along my collarbone and my shoulders and I bite my bottom lip.
"You smell great." He says and kisses the corner of my mouth.
"So do you."
I stroke the lapels of his dark grey jacket and he pulls me closer to him.
"I'm really excited that you want to do something you love," I smile and nod at him.
"I love you so much."
"I love you too, baby."
"When is Tia Gabrielle coming here?"
"I don't know why she is late," Edward gazes at the main door and nods. "Yeah, there she is."
I turn to see a woman in her mid-thirties walking in my direction with a friendly smile on her face. She nervously glances at Edward and then at her watch. She walks confidently but her face looks anxious. She is clutching a file in her hand and fiddling with her wedding band. She must have been late at home.
She is dressed in a gray pantsuit and white shirt. I like her outfit.
"Good evening, Mr. Cullen, Ms. Swan."
"You're late." Edward says with a snap and she shrinks looking at his death glare.
I give his hand that is wrapped around my waist a soft squeeze. I turn to the scared woman and offer a warm smile.
"I'm sorry, I just—" I cut her off.
"You don't have to apologize," I shake my head. "It's Saturday, we understand. I should've given it more thought before asking Edward to meet you." She relaxes a little. I give Edward a pointed look and he sighs, nodding his head.
"Sorry," He mutters to me and turns to Tia. "Ms. Gabrielle, this is my girlfriend Bella Swan. Bella, this is Tia Gabrielle."
"It's wonderful to meet you." I say kindly and she stares at me with a dazed expression.
"You too."
"Kyle mentioned that you have some new ideas for the project?" Edward asks and puts on his business-like expression.
"Yes, Mr. Cullen, I've listed them down. Could you take a look?"
Edward opens the plan for my bookstore and Tia explains what she has planned. She really has some great ideas. Edward adds some suggestions and corrects a couple of her errors. Fifteen minutes later, his phone buzzes making him sigh. I catch Alex's name flashing on the screen.
"You will have to excuse me, I need to make a couple of calls," Edward says and looks at Tia. "Please make sure to explain the details to Bella, I'm sure she will have some other ideas to help you. I trust her instincts and she has a good eye for intricate changes. Whatever decision she makes, go ahead with it."
I blush and Edward brushes his lips against my ear. "Don't hesitate to speak your heart. This call might take some time." He whispers and I nod.
"Okay."
He gives me a chaste kiss and he politely walks away from us.
I tighten my grip on the hard leather straps wrapped around my wrists and cry out Edward's name. There is a strap on the middle of my back, one on my butt and the other one holds my legs. Edward keeps his hands on my waist and leans his body away to get a better, deeper penetration inside me. My mind is completely numb from the overwhelming realms of pleasure surging through me.
I open my eyes and find his hungry green eyes staring back at me. There is so much lust, desire and love in his beautiful eyes as he continues pounding into me. I try to wrap my legs around him but the straps restrain me from that.
Edward leans forward and his lips plant hot open-mouthed kisses down my neck. He pulls back and touches his forehead to mine to look into my eyes.
The door bangs loudly with every thrust and he bites my bottom lip and tugs on it with his teeth. The sweat is rolling off us in waves as the heat surrounds us and the sexual tension and arousal is palpable in the air. My body is on fire just staring at this Adonis of a man in front of me.
My hips match his fast thrusts and I can feel the familiar pressure building in both of us. I clench and try to hold it in; and Edward throbs inside me.
"Bella, come for me!" Edward rasps out and his teeth sink in the soft flesh of my neck. My body trembles as I resist and he increases his tempo, making me shudder. "Now, Bella!" He says firmly and circles my clit with his finger. I freeze and my mouth opens in a silent cry as I give in and Edward empties inside me, completely spent.
We need a shower but I'm too tired and tied up to move. When our breathing is back to normal, Edward and I pull back to gaze at each other.
He brushes away the stray hair sticking on my face and leans forward to brush his lips against mine for a soft kiss. I part my lips to kiss him back and try to pull him closer but these damn straps won't let me move. He laughs against my lips and pulls back to stare at me.
"Oh baby, you look good all strapped up." Edward says softly and strokes my heated cheek.
He presses his body against mine, letting me feel all of him and connects our lips for a kiss. He deepens our kiss and we moan when my tongue tangles with his warm one. I can already feel him growing inside me and I shake my head, breaking our kiss.
"Round three?"
I shake my head and he pouts, pulling out of me.
"I need a shower."
"How about a bath?" He suggests in a silky voice and I nod. I'm all for baths with Edward. He always pampers me with candles, bath salts and roses.
"But, you'll have to wash my hair for me."
"That's not a problem." He beams at me and I blush, nodding my head.
I motion to the straps and he smiles sheepishly. He slips on his pants and throws his shirt and jacket on the nearest armchair.
Edward hums a soft tune under his breath and unstraps me from the love swing. I clumsily stand on my feet after being in the swing for forty minutes and he helps me sit on the chair. He hands my dress to me and takes the sex swing down that was attached to the door. He puts it in one of his work closets.
"You're going to keep a sex swing in your office?" He shrugs, smiling softly.
"Nobody will dare to open it and it's always locked."
I sigh and let out a soft chuckle. I don my dress but keep it unzipped because I am just going to take it off in the bathroom again.
"I think I'm going to fall asleep in the bathtub tonight."
I stand up sleepily and grab the chair. Before I know it, Edward lifts me in his arms bridal style and carries me out of his study, towards his bedroom. I wrap my arms around him and stare at his handsome face.
"You're so perfect." I murmur, stroking his cheek and he chuckles.
"I'm not. God, you look exhausted."
"I haven't t sleep well for the past two nights."
"Well, you can sleep in for as long as you want tomorrow."
"Hmm," I rest my head on his shoulder and close my eyes. He smells so good. "I had a dream two days ago."
"About what?"
"That you bought me five cars because I refused to take the Porsche."
Edward bursts out laughing. "That's something I can try."
"I don't want the Porsche you bought me."
"We'll talk about this later." He dismisses the topic.
"It must be so fascinating being you," I say and he frowns but continues walking. "Don't you ever wonder what it would be like to have something that everybody wants?"
"I don't have to wonder," He gazes at me. "I have you."
And he melts my heart again.
SPECIAL THANKS TO EdwardsFirstKiss FOR EDITING THIS CHAPTER!
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Paint the Walls