A/N: I don't own TWILIGHT or any of its characters.

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BPOV

I lay my head against Edward's chest – deliciously hard and smooth, damp from our recent activities. His back was against the back of the couch and I was happily curled in to him, my back against him. I can hear his heart beating; it's slightly erratic, starting to return to a normal rhythm after coming down from his recent release. My body is also still coming down from the two amazing orgasms he just gave me. No man has ever brought me to two climaxes that quickly. He is brilliant, I think to myself. Brilliance, brains, wealth and he always looks like he just stepped out of the pages of GQ. Life is just not fair sometimes – some people get all the luck. 'Well, you just got lucky, with him' I proudly congratulate myself. I can feel my eyes starting to drift close, into a very serene sleep when I am rudely interrupted.

What the fuck is the plan now, Isabella? My subconscious shouts, startling me. I shiver slightly and Edwards arm tightens around my naked waist.

'Huh…Plan? No plan….I don't need a plan. Nothing's changed…' I tell myself, '…except that my legs have the wonderful consistency of jello right now.'

'You just had amazing, mind-blowing sex with your former boss, and you really think that nothing has changed. You're stupider than I thought.'

Did my subconscious seriously just insult me? 'It's just sex.' I argue back. 'It doesn't change a fucking thing! I have every right to fuck whoever I want, whenever I want!' And with that, my subconscious shut up. I started to drift back into my relaxed state of bliss when Edward shifted behind me.

"Bella?" he whispered.

"Hmmmmm." I responded with my eyes still closed.

"Are you awake?" he asked while brushing the hair off my face. He leaned in and placed a small kiss just below my ear.

"I am now." I said in mock anger, still keeping my eyes shut.

"Oh, so sorry to disturb you." He jokingly retaliated. I turned my body and faced him, still lying on our sides, I looked up at him. His face was relaxed. His eyes were soft and his mouth was turned up in that sexy crooked grin that was all Edward. My heart skipped a beat.

"You didn't disturb me, but suddenly I am extremely tired."

"As am I." he replied brushing my cheek with his thumb. This was a first - Mr. Asshole is being gentle? My cheeks started blazing under his touch, unsure how to respond to this new behavior.

"Your skin is such a striking color when you blush like that." I blushed deeper. He smiled in response. My breathing hitched in my throat. How does he do that? I decided to get up, I needed out of this awkward situation with the stranger lying naked across my couch. I've known Edward for a couple of years now, but this is the first time he's acted this way….gentle, relaxed, polite. Not even when we had our 'fling' in Vancouver…..no, I've never met this Edward and it unnerved me.

I grabbed the ivory cashmere throw that was across the back of the chair and swaddled myself in it, eager to be covered up in front of the man staring at me intently. He didn't make a sound as I left the living room and entered my bathroom. I switched the light, blinding myself momentarily as I stood in front of the large mirror above the vanity. Why can't I have sexy just-fucked hair? My hair stood out in all directions, leaving a frizzy mess to contend with. I quickly ran a brush through it and tied it back in a low ponytail. I changed into a pair of cotton shorts and white t-shirt before re-entering the living room.

Edward was still situated on the couch, although now he was dressed and sitting with his arm stretched across the top of the cushion. He smiled as I neared him.

"Cute." He commented, his green eyes taking in my new attire.

"Thanks." I said, although it came out more like a question. Why is he being so….nice?

I took a step backwards as Edward stood up. "I guess I should get going." He said closing the distance between us.

"Okay." I said quietly, my eyes looking at my feet. Do you have to?

Edward cupped my chin with his hand and forced my eyes to meet his. "So shall I assume that all is forgiven?"

"What do you mean?" I ask, scrunching me eyebrows together in confusion.

"Isabella, we both know that you made your point. Very clearly, I may add." He said, still gripping my chin. I couldn't look away if I tried. "I've had enough of this absurd behavior." He said with a light chuckle. "You win, I'll promote you in another position, I have a few things in the works and we'll need to discuss that. Can you meet me in my office at nine?"

I stared dumbfounded at him, unable to find my voice. "Huh?" was the brilliant response that decided to come out.

"And, I'll want Alice back too," He added letting go of my chin and running his fingers through his glorious just-fucked hair.

My brain was running through a million questions at once. He thinks I'm coming back? We have sex, and he thinks I'm coming back? I'm at a complete loss – my eyes prick with moisture as humiliation runs through my body.

Absurd behavior? I've made my point? I win? I desolately realize he only had sex with me to get me to come back. He didn't want me? Asshole Edward never left; he just invented Gentle Edward to get his way. My ego hasn't taken a hit like this since high school with Rob…I will not cry, I plead to myself as the familiar burning sensation filled my now clenched eyes.

I channeled my humiliation into anger, deciding that was the way to go. "I'm not going back, Edward." I said through clenched teeth, staring him square in the eyes.

"But, I thought…." He started motioning towards the couch, looking perplexed.

"You thought wrong!" I stammered. "You think that you can walk in here, give me amazing sex and that I'll be putty in your hands? How very high-handed of you. Yes, you may be talented in bed Edward, but I'm not going back."

"Are you implying that I planned this?" Edward asked astonished his eyebrows slightly raised.

"Don't play stupid with me," I rebuke angrily. "I'm not falling for your games. That may be how you're used to getting your own way, but there's no way in hell I'd work for you again, and I don't care if you give me a thousand orgasms!" Well, maybe for a thousand, my subconscious piped up. Shut up! I scold myself.

"Bella, be serious." Edward replied, looking slightly amused by my outburst. "I never realized you had such a temper. You're a little spitfire, aren't you?"

I was past frustrated – I was borderline certifiable. "I am serious, Edward. I wouldn't go back to work for you if my life depended on it!"

"Bella, stop all this nonsense, you're ruining a perfectly pleasant evening."

"Don't patronize me! I see who you really are Edward – a beautiful man with an ugly core."

"Careful, Bella." I see a flash of anger in his green eyes. "You're starting to cross the line."

"Just fucking leave." I hissed at him, hatred flashing in my brown eyes. "Lock the door on your way out." And with that I leave a shocked Edward standing there as I march into my bedroom and slam the door.

I toss and turn, unable to find sleep. I couldn't believe that I was so dense, thinking that Edward wanted me. He knew exactly what my weakness was and he took full advantage of it. What kind of man uses sex to get his way? A narcissistic, arrogant asshole, that's who, my subconscious answered me. I finally drift into a restless sleep, determination overwhelming me. I will get you where it hurts the most Edward – I will bring your company down and you with it.

The next morning I awoke early, preparing myself for a day of shopping with Alice and Rosalie. My cheeks burned from the realization and the humiliation from the previous night's events and how I fell so easily into his trap.

After a couple cups of my morning coffee, necessary for my day to begin; I heard Alice's effervescent voice nearing my door. I opened the door as they approached and smiled at my best friend and the striking blond next to her.

Rosalie was abnormally gorgeous; any person within a twenty foot radius took an extreme hit to their self-esteem. She wore a red pea-coat and black leather gloves; obviously protecting her perfectly manicured nails from the extreme weather conditions. Her blue eyes framed with thick dark lashes and her pouty mouth was slick with matching red gloss. Life's not fair.

"Morning, Sunshine!" Alice greeted grabbing me into a bear hug. I remember that I'm mad at her for her comments last night.

"Morning, Alice." I reply curtly, narrowing my eyes at her.

"Oh, Bella. Get over it!" Alice sighed. I roll my eyes; I can never stay mad at Alice.

"Rosalie." I say nodding in her direction.

She nodded in return. Rosalie and I were never close, but we do maintain a fairly comfortable friendship. I always ensured that she got booked for the best jobs and that she was well compensated. Rosalie was a natural charmer and it definitely worked in her favor in this industry. Everyone loved her – well not everyone, but most people, with cocks.

They entered my apartment while I went to my bedroom to grab my winter jacket. It was really snowing out there and my light trench wasn't going to cut it today. We still needed to get our business license out of the way and I fully intended to take care of that first. We needed to register our new name B.A.B.S as well. It was going to be a full day and I was suddenly excited to get things going. Last nights discussion with Edward lit a fire under my ass and I was raring to get things in high gear.

"Bella," Alice called out to me. "Why are your panties and bra on your living room floor?" Motherfucker, I thought to myself. I ran into the living room to see Alice holding up my panties from the waistband with her pinky and Rosalie holding up my bra from the strap with her forefinger. Fuck, fuck, fuck.

They're both smirking, knowing smiles on their faces. Fuck, Alice knows. I'm sure Rosalie just thinks I got lucky last night, she couldn't know it was Edward; unless Alice opened her big mouth. I turn ten shades of crimson and grab both undergarments from their hands. "It's none of your fucking business." I mutter irately.

My, my…little touchy this morning? Alice asked laughing. "Or was it Edwards touch last night?"

I turned and glared at her. "Not funny, Alice."

"Edward who?" Rosalie asked casually. I could literally hear the click in her head. "Edward Cullen? Really?" She looked completely bewildered. Gee, thanks for the vote of confidence Rose.

"Can we please not talk about this? We got a lot to do today and Edward Cullen is not on the agenda." And with that we left my apartment and bundled into my BMW.

EPOV

I still can't believe the temper on the girl, I think to myself as I sit in my position at the head of the board room table. I've called a meeting to discuss the expansion that's currently in progress and I'm incapable of pushing Isabella out of my thoughts.

What is it about her? I've never come across anyone that challenges me the way she does. How is her brain wired? She is indisputably an intelligent girl, but she comes to the most ludicrous conclusions. For her to actually believe that I planned to seduce her to get her back here – there must be wires crossed in that pretty head of hers. It truly disappoints me that she thinks so little of our night together and that I'm capable of such conduct.

I don't typically tolerate this type of behavior with anyone, except her apparently. I'm completely and utterly powerless when it comes to her. Isabella, my little spitfire. What have you done to me? I will get you back in my company. I'll be damned if I'll allow you to work with someone else. I will show her that I'm not the 'beautiful man with the ugly core', as she so eloquently put it.

I didn't sleep last night, devising a plan of action– project 'Spitfire'. Hence this meeting. I've been surreptitiously planning this for the past couple of months and it would've been wonderful if she hadn't gone and walked out on me. It will bring Cullen Industries into an entirely new fresh market and everyone is buzzing about the news. I've just announced today that the company is expanding and I want to advance full speed ahead.

Someone cleared their throat. Oh, right. I come back down to earth and look at the faces that comprise Cullen Industries. I can't help but feel a tug at my heart, knowing that we are missing one key member. "Thanks for meeting on such short notice." I begin, in my voice that I reserve for these meetings. "Obviously you've all heard of the recent plans for expansion. Originally, our goal was to have this project underway next year. Due to recent circumstances I have decided to move forward with our venture sooner than anticipated. I have decided to put a bid in this week and hope to move things forward in the next couple of weeks. We need to have all of you on board, as this will require additional commitment from each of you." I pause, allowing this information to soak in. "It is with utmost importance that any information about this expansion is kept confidential, until all contracts have been negotiated and signed. I will provide you with further details when the deal has been made. Can I count on you?"

Everyone stared back at me, excitement the dominant emotion in their eyes. I smile, knowing I have a great team of people; people who are passionate about this company. My company, a company I have built from nothing to a multi-million dollar empire and we have continued our success steadily over the past few years. It is rewarding, but it has come at a cost; too high of a cost according to my father, Carlisle. I haven't had a real relationship with a woman since college and I spend most nights alone. I'm happy, I lie to myself. It's the same response I give to my father when he's concerned, and I'm sure he also knows it's a lie.

BPOV

Getting our license proved to be the easiest and most enjoyable part of the day, for me at least. Shopping I can do with out and shopping with Alice was, well, shopping with Alice. After trying on what felt like a million bunny costumes, she finally found 'the one'. I almost cried out in joy as she stepped out of the dressing room and declared her revelation. Who knew that finding an appropriate bunny outfit would prove to be so challenging? Fur or without fur? Ears or no ears? Blue or pink? Or maybe we should do white? Strapless or halter? Fishnets or tights? Whiskers or make up? This was my personal hell and Alice's heaven.

Alice and Rose finally decided on a classic white and black suit, strapless styling with a sweetheart neckline. It looked more like a bathing suit to me. They paired it with tightly knit fishnet stockings, also black, and a white fluffy tail. All white ears secured to a thin headband. We got three different color headbands, to match the color of our hair. Rose's a light blond; Alice's in jet black and mine in chestnut. My stomach started turning from the thought of actually having to wear this while serving drinks and dinner to Mr. Johnson and his associates. Two days. Crazy shit. I can't believe that two short years ago I working at that dive bar, serving drinks in a uniform that could've doubled as a napkin. That's when I met Edward for the first time. He took a quick interest in me and hired me on to his company; a huge step up from the dive bar; but not the career choice I envisioned for myself.

I was relieved that neither Rose nor Alice brought up the subject of my misplaced undergarments or Edward. I didn't think I would be able to handle talking about him right now or what transpired just a few hours ago. Although we never spoke of it, I did notice Alice giving me sideway glances all day. She's holding back because Rose is here, I think to myself. It must be killing her, I thought smugly.

After our shopping excursion, I find myself sitting in my living room with Alice, our purchases scattered around us. We dropped Rose off at home; she needs to get ready for her date – a three hour process in her world. Apparently she met Mr. Wonderful a few days ago and they've been inseparable since.

"Spill." Alice said as soon as we sat down.

I started sorting through the bags, separating everyone's costumes. "No." I said simply to her request.

"Yes, Bella. What happened with him? Did you tell him?" Alice was worried; it was etched in her eyes. I feel bad. Alice doesn't deserve to deal with my erratic moods. She's been a true friend and it would be nice to talk to someone about this, but I didn't know if I was ready to relive the humiliation of last night.

"I didn't tell him, Alice." I said putting her mind at ease. "Edward has no idea what we're doing. Although I did tell him that I got a new job." I stared at her and gauged her reaction.

"Where did you tell him you were working?"

"I didn't. I told him it's a moot point, although he wants us to come back." I pull my costume out of my bag and cringe. " He wants both of us back."

"And did you tell him to go fuck himself?" Alice asked sweetly, a direct contrast to the vulgar that just spewed out of her mouth.

"Jeez, Alice. You have such a potty mouth!"

"Look who's talking, Sailor."

"I did tell him to 'just fucking leave'. Does that count?" I asked with a smile.

"Yes, yes it does!" Alice clapped her hands together in glee, her bright teeth in a wide grin. Her next question threw me for a loop.

"So, did his touch get to you?" She attempted to ask causally. Nothing about Alice is causal or unintentional.

"Alice." I warned.

"What?" She asked innocently. "So, did you two…?"

I shrugged, not wanting to dance around the subject or lie to her anymore. Deal with this Alice. "Yes, we fucked. It was amazing sex and when we were done he assumed I would go back to work for him."

Alice stared at me wide eyed, her mouth popped open. I don't think she was expecting that. I smile to myself, I love shocking Alice.

"You fucked Edward Cullen?" She asked, slowly emphasizing each word.

I nodded.

"OH MY GOD! Bella!"

I shrugged, trying to play it off as no big deal.

"How big is he?"

"ALICE!"

"What? Is he huge? I bet he's colossal." I roll my eyes at her. She has no idea how colossal he is and I'm not about to share that information.

"The bottom line is, I was pissed at Edward before and that is nothing compared to what I'm feeling now. I have never wanted to swipe a smile off someone's face as badly as I want to now. We are going to succeed and we are going to crush Edward in the process."

"Yippee!" Alice cried clapping her hands together again. "I can't wait to crush colossal!" Oh fuck, I feel a nickname forming and she has no idea how accurate her nickname is.

I left Alice to arrange some particulars for our Saturday job while I decided to try and secure our dream space. I needed to call my dad Charlie first, to be sure he didn't mind.

My dad still lives in Forks, the small hometown I grew up in. He and my mother divorced when I was young and she died shortly after in a car accident. To be honest, I don't remember much about my mom, except that she was always singing and laughing. She was the complete opposite of me. My dad never remarried, unless you count his job as police chief. We lived in a tiny two bedroom home that he and my mom bought together early in their marriage and I lived there until I skipped town when I turned nineteen. He's too lonely, I think guiltily. He keeps to himself and when he's not working you'll find him in front of the flat panel I bought him last Christmas, watching the latest game or on the lake fishing.

To say that my dad dislikes my current career choices would be an understatement, but Charlie allows me to live my own life. He wants me to be happy and if this is what does it for me, then he's quick to give me his blessing. I'm sure a lot of it has to do with my year long depression I made him suffer through when I was seventeen. All over a stupid boy, Rob. I thought it was true love and I thought he did too, until he met his next true love Kristen. And then it was all bye-bye Bella. They ended up running off and getting married, leaving me heart broken and isolated for a year. I haven't had a serious relationship since and to be honest, I don't think I ever want one.

My dad picked up on the first ring. "Hey, Dad!" I said, smiling into the phone. I miss him.

"Bells!" He sounds happy to hear from me too. "How's Seattle treating you?"

"Great, Dad. I quit my job on Monday."

"Uh, that's great?" He asked warily.

"Yes, Dad, it is great. Alice and I are starting our own business. Were thinking nightclub, but it's all very preliminary."

He seemed genuinely happy for me and wished me luck in the new endeavor. He also offered to help in any way he could, but seriously – I couldn't picture Charlie anywhere near my club, nor did I want to. But it was a sweet gesture. I was doubly relived when he gave me his blessing to talk to Billy. I hung up promising to visit soon, not really knowing when that would be. First step down. Now, time to call Billy Black.

"Bella! What a surprise." Billy's loud gruff voice made my ear tingle.

"Hi Billy. I hope I didn't catch you at a bad time." I tried to sound friendly and professional.

"Never a bad time to speak to an old friend." I could hear the smile in his voice.

"I was hoping that I could meet with you." I say feeling myself shift into my professional persona. "I wanted to discuss something with you. It's important."

"I'd love to meet with you, Bella." I felt a slight hesitation in his voice. "But, I'm going out of town tomorrow night. I won't be returning until next week. Can it wait?

"Actually it can't." I start to panic; the bidding is going to start next week.

"Well, I have time tomorrow morning, but it's a long drive, Bella. I wouldn't expect you to make that. Is it something we discuss this on the phone?" It is a long drive – over four hours by car.

"I really would prefer to talk to you in person. Is ten tomorrow okay?"

"Sure, Bella. You sound so serious. Is everything okay?" Billy's asked concerned. "Is Charlie okay?"

"Yes, yes." I quickly reassured him. "Everything and everyone is okay. I actually want to talk business with you."

"Ahh, I'm intrigued Ms. Swan. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow."

Billy Black was an old friend of Charlie. He was of Indian descent and lived on the reservation bordering Forks, La Push. I spent many wonderful summers with him and his son Jacob, who is slightly younger than me. We spent our days running through the forest or swimming at the tiny beach. Seems like a lifetime ago, I think longingly, wishing for those days again. Roughly twenty years ago, Billy suffered a car accident that left him paralyzed and permanently in a wheelchair. It was a difficult situation for him, although I only know this through my dad, I was too young to really remember. His lawyer secured him enough money from the lawsuit that Billy will never have to worry about money again. Unsure what to do with his sudden wealth; Billy started investing in properties in Seattle. Twenty years ago, real estate was a lot less expensive and Billy learned very quickly that you could get a good return if you purchase and sell at the opportune moment. Needless to say, Billy is now one of the most prominent names in the downtown Seattle area, owning majority of the commercial space. He seldom sells his investments; he typically rents them out to companies, such as Cullen Industries.

I wonder if Edward rents from Billy? Probably not, I can't see Edward renting when he can own and possess the space himself; egotistical asshole.

I wonder why Billy is selling the Huron Street space? I really hope that Billy allows us to purchase the space before the bidding is open to the public. Maybe I could offer him some part of the profits, like a silent partner? That may work.

Tomorrow at ten. I have a long drive ahead of me.

A/N - So please remember to review...I love receiving them and it really helps to keep me motivated. Thanks :)