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They were on the very end of Penarth Pier, braving the sharp sea breeze. Despite the sun, Bella was huddled in a woollen jumper and jeans. It had been warm on the beach, but out here, at the very end of the long pier, she felt like she was actually out at sea, leaning against the railing, looking at the horizon.
Edward stepped behind her and wrapped his arms around her.
"The air is so clean here," he sighed, taking a deep breath, and Bella mirrored him, tasting the salt on her tongue.
"Beautiful," she murmured, feeling Edward's stubble by her cheek.
"So are you," he replied, warm lips on her ear, her neck.
.
Back on the beach, they took off their shoes and rolled up their jeans, walking with their feet in the wet sand, gentle waves lapping at their skin. Their hands enwrapped, they walked silently, which was one of the things Edward loved about her: they could be quiet together without it feeling strained.
She looked utterly young and sweet; her face devoid of makeup, rosy cheeks, wind-tousled dark hair. Impulsively, he pulled her close, making her squeak in surprise.
"I love you so much, Bella," he whispered, the passion in his voice surprising him.
.
"Oh my God…"
Edward was just regaining his breath, hovering above her, trying not to smother her with his weight.
Bella's lips were kiss-red, her eyes luminous in a post-orgasmic haze.
She traced his contours with her forefinger, tender touches on his eyebrows, his nose, his jaw line.
He hadn't felt so secure in a long time.
.
They were watching the sun go down, tinting the horizon, where the sky met the sea in pink and orange. They were snuggled up in a blanket, Bella's head beneath his chin feeling as if it belonged there.
He sighed, a deep sound of relief.
If he was serious with himself, he would have loved a beer right about now, but the effects his abstinence had were too pleasant to give up for the short-lived satisfaction of a drink. He felt so much better and more clear-headed, not to mention the wonderfully liberating feeling not to have to lie to Bella gave him.
And he knew that she noticed he was better, too. The sparkle in her eyes was confirmation and motivation for him.
But Edward knew that this wasn't a game. He still needed to conquer the dragon.
And he was afraid.
oOo
Thank you for reading, reviewing, and having faith in me.
Love,
Harperpitt
PS: Picture of Penarth Pier on my Facebook page.
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I put pictures of Penarth beach and the pier on my facebook page.