Previously…

He kissed her hand, "Come love, let's see how many new things we can discover about each other." She shivered. He chuckled leaning to her ear, "How many new things I can do to make you scream my name."

He felt her grip on his hand tighten. She grinned standing on her tiptoes. "How about we figure out what I can do to make you scream?" He gulped suddenly he was nervous and excited all at once. She giggled, "Come on lover boy."

"Right behind you, just enjoying the view."

"I hope so, I like the thought of your eyes on me." He felt his mouth drop then closed it quickly, this new assertive Bella was something he could get used to, and he couldn't wait.

They were up early the next morning getting ready and heading to his parents. They were excited to meet Timmy, and his mom was driving him crazy calling daily to remind him. Timmy played with his toy in the backseat quietly. Edward glanced in the rearview mirror.

"Is he always so good?"

"Yes mostly. He has a really good temperament. He seems to take things in stride, and rarely gets mad. He is prone to pouting though."

"Wonder where he gets that from." He teased.

She raised an eyebrow, "I seem to recall you pout as well Mr. Cullen." He shrugged, "I used to. I guess I grew out of it." He knew she was right. He did used to pout before he left to come to LA. He usually did it to get his way with her. He loved her reaction to it. That was then, this was now and a lot about him was different.

"You grew out of a lot of things I loved." She said softly. Glancing at her he reached for her hand, "I had to love, I was an actor and they require…more like push for certain behaviors. I am not saying I want to be that way. I try hard not to be. It just seems to make me into what I am."

"What you are perceived to be anyway. I still see you." She corrected.

He smiled sadly, "Yes, but do you like what you see?" He knew what she would say. At least what he thought she would say. One never really knew what would come out of her beautiful mouth. She turned to face him, "Edward, I love you. I know who you are inside. I always have. I see some changes, I'll get used to them."

"What changes?"

"For example you are more restrained. You use to be so loose and carefree. You tend to bottle things up now. I know you are talking to me but being honest, how much are you really telling me? How much of your deepest fears are you keeping inside?"

He didn't answer instead waited on her to continue. She sighed looking out the window, "When you smile for the camera's it doesn't reach your eyes. When you first started it still wasn't happy, it was more like you were star struck. Over the years it's gotten routine and mechanical. It's not the smile I see when you look at Timmy."

He inhaled deeply, "Is it the smile you see when I look at you?" She didn't answer. He looked at her for a moment, "Bella?"

"Your smile is more genuine. I see the love in your eyes, but there is still sadness. I'm not quite sure if it's me or something else causing it."

"It's not you baby, you cause me nothing but happiness."

"Do you want to talk about it?" She squeezed his hand.

He shook his head no, "Maybe in time, I didn't realize I was still closed off to you. I guess when you mention it, I am. I certainly don't mean to be. I want you to know everything. I don't have secrets from you."

"I know. We haven't seen each other in a long time. It's fine, really. I know we talked on the phone, face to face is so different. It will take us both time and that's ok with me. It doesn't change how I feel. It's kind of like getting to know you again."

"Is that a bad thing?" He questioned nervously.

"No, it's expected after six years. We're not kids anymore."

He bit his lip then sighed, "I've become so accustom to saying specific things and keeping the real story inside. It seems like second nature to me, and for that I am sorry. I do love you. I worry it's not enough, that I have changed too much for you to find me the boy I once was. I lost that innocence a long time ago."

"Not to me, to me you'll always be the Edward that liked to lay his head in my lap, and wanted me to run my fingers through his hair. You are the same boy that looked at me with wide eyes when he asked me to kiss him for the first time. The sweet and caring Edward who even in his busy actor schedule called me weekly if not more. There is nothing you can say to taint how I see you. Look in the back seat and you'll see why."

He glanced back and smiled at her, "I do love you so much." If he ever had a doubt it was gone years ago when she first kissed him, he had always loved her. It was a truth he never denied, he didn't want to. She was the one true thing in this world that was his alone. He always knew she held his heart and kept it safe.

"I know, you've shown me for years. I guess I knew deep down, even if I tried to convince myself we were only friends. I always knew you were my other half." Her simple words made his heart leap. There were no sweeter words ever spoken.

He chuckled, "Well I guess that's it then, I have to bring back the old Edward to sweep you off your feat."

"Nah, you already did that." She teased. He raised her warm hand to his lips and kissed it gently.

"Daddy, are we almost there?" Timmy asked curious. He gave a short nod, "Yes Tim we are."

"Do they have any animals?"

He had to chuckle, "Yes, as a matter of fact Esme has several cats. She get's lonely since her children are all grown. My father is a doctor and he works at a local hospital."

"A real doctor?" He asked excited. Edward raised his eyebrow, "Yes, he works in the Emergency Room. He takes care of really sick people when they come in.

"I am going to be a doctor when I grow up. My mommy bought me a coat and the listening thing, I have a bag too."

"The listening thing?" He questioned to Bella. She giggled, "Stethoscope. I got him a kid's doctor kit."

"Well Timmy, I am sure your grandfather will be excited to hear that. He had hoped I would be a doctor and follow in his footsteps."

"You didn't want to be a doctor?"

"No, your grandmother was an actress when she was younger. She acted mostly in theatre things, but she loved it. I think I took after her."

"You got your charisma from your father." Bella winked at him. He sighed, "Yeah, yeah I know it is still the running joke, how the nurses and patients swoon over my father."

"He is handsome Edward, just like you."

He smiled, "Well if it means you think I am handsome then ok." He looked back at the road and turned in a driveway, "We're here." He pushed a button and the large gates opened. Bella smiled seeing the house, elegant and simple. This was Esme.

He got out opening the door to help Timmy, and before she could completely get out she heard his mother.

"Bella!" She pulled her into her arms, "I can not tell you how wonderful it is to see you. I told my son time and time again to get home and bring you here. He hasn't been happy without you."

"Mom." He scolded her. She turned hugging him, "Hello stranger." Her eyes dropped and she knelt, "Oh my goodness, aren't you the little Edward. I am Esme." She couldn't help but notice how much he looked like Edward when he was young.

Edward ran his hands through Timmy's brown hair, "This is your grandmother Timmy." He looked at her a moment then smiled, "You're pretty." His arms were quickly around her neck. She laughed, "You are friendly just like your father was."

"Fortunately he's not shy. He doesn't meet a stranger." Bella added.

"Why is that fortunate? I kind of found your shyness endearing." She blushed and he grinned flashing his teeth, "See, you blush so lovely."

Esme stood casting a knowing smile at them both, and took Timmy's hand.

"Would you like to meet your grandfather?"

"He is a doctor, daddy told me." He stated proudly as they bean to walk. She smiled, "Yes, he is. He is so excited to meet you." They met Carlisle in his study. He placed his paper on the desk and came around kneeling to Timmy's level as soon as he set eyes on him.

"I am Carlisle and who might you be?"

"Timmy."

"Well Timmy it is very nice to meet you." Timmy extended his hand and he shook it with a grin, "What manners you have too."

"My uncle Emmett says it's important."

"Your uncle Emmett is right." He stood hugging Edward and turning to Bella, "It is so good to see you dear." He hugged her gently, "I can't tell you how happy I was when Edward said you were coming to visit. I do hope you stay."

She bit her lip, "I am afraid I owe you and Esme an apology." She couldn't help but feel guilty for denying them the pleasure of their grandson's company.

Esme turned with a confused expression, "What ever for honey?"

"I didn't tell you about your grandson. I can't express how sorry I am." She tried to calm the tears that were threatening as Edward pulled her close kissing her head. Esme released Timmy and took Bella's hands in hers.

"Listen to me, you were so young. Edward left and you were alone, I knew how heart broken you would be. He tried to act content but inside Edward was hurting too. He wouldn't talk to me then, not like now. The last year he has admitted he missed you and regretted leaving. I think having a son you understand how hard it is seeing your child hurting."

"Yes, I do."

Esme smiled, "You did what you had to and you raised a beautiful boy. I can't imagine the ridicule and suffering you went through being alone."

"It wasn't all bad." She looked toward Timmy. Esme glanced back, "No you are right, but there is nothing to forgive. You did the best you could, we all did. Now we move on and get to know each other again." She allowed Esme to hug her again. She always loved the fact that she was so giving and compassionate.

"There's my nephew!" They turned and Alice came running in hugging her, "Hey Bella." She giggled kissing Timmy, "Hey there handsome, how are you?"

"I'm good Mrs. Alice, how are you?"

"I am just happy to see you. I think you've grown since I last saw you."

She happily threw herself at Edward, "How are you hunk of the year."

"Hunk of the year?" He questioned with a frown.

"Yeah some internet site voted you hunk of the year." She giggled again, "I thought it was funny. I had to comment on just how juicy you really were. They have no idea who I am. I love the internet."

Edward groaned, "Great." Bella turned feeling Jasper's arm slip around her shoulder, "How are you?" He whispered close to her ear. She smiled, "Better."

"Good, I was worried about you." She looked at him funny, "You were?"

He nodded toward the door and she let him lead her out. He stopped when they were in the kitchen, "How bout a drink?"

"Sure."

"What would you like? We've got tea, coke, and lemonade."

"Tea is fine, thank you." She watched him pour them a glass and sit beside her. He smiled, "When I last saw you I could tell all your emotions were haywire. Edward was the same way, and I worried you two wouldn't be able to calm yourselves enough to push past it."

"It was easier for him, I say that. I don't know that. He probably still carries the pain, and I know I will always carry the guilt."

"You have to let go sometime. I love you both. I have since we were kids. I knew one day you would end up together, me and Alice both. Did she ever tell you she was planning double weddings before we left Forks?"

"Yeah, but she was sixteen."

"True, but she knew what she wanted. I know you do too. I have to wonder how long you will be able to resist. I do hope you bend soon though, Alice is driving me insane looking at wedding gifts."

She laughed, "Well that I can already tell you will come with time. It's too soon now anyway."

"You know that, I know that. We all know Alice looks for any reason to shop. That's not really why I wanted to talk to you though. I mean it is, but it's not."

"Ok."

"I actually wanted to get your opinion on something." She was more than curious why he would need her opinion. He looked confused and uncertain, he rung his hands like he couldn't decide what to do with them.

"Ok, sure." She moved so she was facing him more. He smiled, "I love Alice, and I am trying to find a way to be…well I want to propose the idea of maybe starting a family of our own. I know Alice better than anyone, but to be honest she has never mentioned kids."

"She likes to spoil you that's not a surprise really." He knew it wasn't, but he wanted more.

"I suppose, but I see her with Timmy and well…It makes me think maybe it's time." He loved seeing her with Timmy, the way she lit up. He wanted to see her like that more often.

"You know what just ask her. I know you Jasper, and being the romantic soul you are. I know you can find a way."

"I guess. I think I am just nervous. I didn't want to mention it to Edward. I think being a guy he wouldn't be as understanding as you are. He would say it in more of a detached way and that's not me."

"You might be surprised." She grinned, "Edward's changing you just haven't been around to see it yet. He wants to change, be more open. You should bring up things like this. It would help him to know someone other than me values his opinion and not because he is a famous actor."

"You think I should?" He questioned looking at his feet. He reminded her of a scolded child, it was so cute. She stood patting his shoulder and leaning closer, "I do, and no time like the present"

He turned seeing Edward who was now beside him. He had taken Bella in his arms holding her close.

"You ok?" He questioned brushing a stray hair behind her ear.

"I'm great. I am going to visit with the others, why don't you two talk." She kissed him gently and caressed his cheek. He smiled, "Ok love." He allowed his arms to fall as she pulled away, but followed her with his eyes.

Jasper smirked, "I knew you had it bad, I didn't realize how bad."

"Shut up." Edward slapped his head playfully.

Bella walked in the study, her face brightened when she saw the family together. Timmy was in Carlisle's lap and they were reading a book. One that was probably too old for him, but that was ok. Timmy was always ahead of his age. She had always figured he would be exceptionally smart like his family.

"Bella." Alice grabbed her hand, "Where were you?"

"I was just visiting with your husband. You know, it's hard to believe you've been married this long."

"I know, can you believe it? He is so perfect, I always knew he was, but I never knew he would be this good at it." They laughed. She felt a hand on her arm and turned. Esme smiled sweetly, "I know the boys are talking, why don't you two take a walk? We'll get to know Timmy more if that's ok?"

"It's fine, it seems Carlisle has already captured his heart." She couldn't help but feel happy that he was taking to his new family this way. It could have been a nightmare, he could be high strung. They could have not wanted him. There were so many scenarios she didn't even want to run them through her mind.

Alice touched her shoulder, "You ok? You kind of spaced off."

"Yeah, come on."

They decided to walk around Esme's garden behind the house. She had tons of flowers and trees. She was always good at the nurturing thing. Alice sat on a concrete bench. She was so small it almost appeared oversized. A set of lavender flowers cascaded beautifully behind her back. If she had a camera this would be a perfect picture of her. Alice was always so happy and bright. She looked beautiful.

"What's wrong?" She asked seeing the perplexed look on Bella's face.

"I was just thinking how beautiful you look." She said honestly. Alice giggled, "Thank you, come sit by me."

She sat beside her biting her lip, "Was there something in particular you wanted to talk about?"

"No, no Bella, always so worrisome. I just wanted to see how things are going with my brother." She tried to reassure her.

Bella visibly relaxed, "Good really. We've talked a lot."

"Among other things?" Her eyebrow rose as she hinted, evil little pixie. Bella looked down toying with her jeans. "Not that it matters."

"That's a yes!" Alice screamed bouncing up and down. She was such a ball of energy. Bella shrugged innocently, "So we did."

"And?" She asked anxious.

"And what? I answered you." She tried to deflect from the question but Alice would have none of that.

"How was it? You know what I was asking!" She frowned then began to anxiously shake her leg. She had too much energy to sit still long. Bella took a deep breath blushing, "Alice, it was beautiful."

She jumped up, "I knew it! I knew it! I told Jazzy you wouldn't last a week. Edward told him he wanted to take it slow! Hah! I knew he wouldn't be able to stand it. His hormones were buck wild with you in the same house."

"Buck wild?" she questioned with a smirk.

"You know what I mean. He was in hormonal overdrive so were you, I mean it has been several years and you both needed a little…relaxation shall we say."

"Great, thanks for reminding me. It's nice to know you and Jasper enjoy discussing our sex life."

She sat back down hugging her, "Silly Bella, we are just happy you and Edward finally have one. It has nothing to do with sex really, I mean yes you both needed it…I mean when I think about it I can't imagine being with Jazz without…"

"Alice!" She interrupted.

"Oh, yeah back to you and my brother. This was not just about sex, you love each other. This was about reconnecting and finding your heart again. It's sweet. I am sure initially is was about sex you know it's been a while and I am sure he didn't mean to…"

"Alice!" She growled only to be laughed at. "Ok, ok after the initial bang, I am sure it was slow and passionate." She said as fast as she could get it out.

Bella felt the heat burning her cheeks, "You did not just say that."

"Sure I did, it's ok we are family. We can girl talk. You really don't believe Jasper and Edward don't discuss us right? The only reason he never mentions you with Emmett is because, if he mentioned what he was thinking Emmett would kill him."

"That's true. He is quite protective."

"It's a good thing, but Edward would never purposely hurt you. He loves you too much. You know if he would have known about Timmy, he would have stayed. He hasn't said it but I know he would have."

"Yes, he has." She said softly allowing her hair to fall in a protective curtain around her face.

"Has what?"

"He said he would have stayed if he had known."

"Oh Bella." Alice brushed her hair back, "It doesn't matter now, besides look at the bright side. You didn't have to put up with his childish boy pranks, or his trying to learn exactly what goes where you know? Now he is older and he just knows. Movies are a wonderful instructor." She thought a minute, "Then again, maybe you wouldn't have to direct him. I mean he had to have figured something out, you have Timmy."

"Ok, can we get off of sex please? My face is going to permanently be red. Not to mention this is all new for me and it's really weird to talk about it so openly."

"I can wait. You will call me soon begging for ideas. Just know Alice, the queen of passion, is always here to help a sister in need."

"I'll keep that in mind." She groaned shaking her head. Alice giggled, "Come on let's go get our men."