oOo
The party was in full swing. A lavish buffet, a band, endlessly flowing drinks.
Edward stuck to drinking water, chatting with the Samdons, who were complimenting him on his new works. Bella, Ro and Emmett were part of their group, talking easily. Lottie seemed to like Bella, extensively asking about her studies. She was an impressive woman in her sixties, tall, thin as a rail, with long, black hair. Edward heard both of them laugh while he was talking with Alistair. Bella was close to him, their elbows touching, and sometimes their pinkie fingers, too.
She was mesmerizing tonight, in that dress, her hair flowing over her shoulders, her eyes shining. He knew that Ro saw it as well: Bella was the one, in ways Irina had never been.
She was young, yes, but she was more mature than he could ever hope to be. She was brave and one of the most quick-witted people he knew. She knew what she wanted. She knew herself, her weaknesses, and how to deal with them.
And – though he often wondered why – it was him she chose to be with.
"Edward," Lottie drew him out of his reverie. "Did Gustav contact you about his plans in Berlin?"
"He talked to my agent," Edward replied, "but we haven't discussed it yet."
The truth was that he'd been stalling Michael's requests to consider going to Berlin. He couldn't bear the thought of being without Bella. He hadn't even told her about it.
"Oh, you most definitely should do it," Lottie said. "It's a wonderful museum, and a great place to exhibit right now. And from what I hear, you have quite a following there. Have you ever been to Berlin?" she turned to Bella.
"Yes, um, I have. About four years ago."
"Well, then convince him!" Lottie patted her arm.
Moments later, she was fluttering away like a long, black butterfly.
"You didn't tell me you got invited."
Bella was facing him, not angry, but downcast.
He took both her hands in his.
"I didn't tell you because I haven't even considered it yet."
"Michael mentioned something at the vernissage. He was upset he couldn't find you."
Edward slightly rolled his eyes. Mike was always upset about something where his most prestigious client was involved.
"Are you going to go?"
He shrugged.
"I don't want to. Not without you."
Bella's face was lit with a smile.
"Then I'll come with you."
"Co-could you?" His surprise made him slightly speechless.
"Well, it depends on the date of course, but I'm sure a few days could be arranged."
Her smile didn't last, and he could already see the wheels turning in her head: the cost of the flight, the hotel…
"Then let's do it," he said, wrapping his arms around her slender waist, pulling her to him. "You'll come as my… assistant."
Bella's nose crinkled adorably.
"Does that mean I'll have to organize your life?"
"Or my secretary," he suggested.
Bella laughed.
"My chaperone?"
She slapped his chest and pouted.
Edward pretended to think hard.
"My girl Friday?"
More pouting. He brought his face closer to hers.
"Friend?"
Their noses were touching. Bella grumbled softly.
"Plus one?"
Her arms twined around his neck.
Their foreheads against each other's, he could feel her sweet breath on his lips.
"Lover?"
"Now we're talking," she whispered, and their lips merged, none of them caring about the dozens of people around them.
oOo