SM owns all. I also don't own the movie Mogambo any of its' many remakes or the actors that appear in them.
AN: You guys are amazing, you really are. Thank you so much. Please keep reading and reviewing. The impression I have so far, is that you would like Esme to stay and watch the movie. Well great minds think alike, sort of. I know it's slow, but it will pick up so please stick with me.
CPOV
"Would you like to stay and watch the movie with me?"
Esme looked a little stunned for a second, before she began to fidget nervously.
"I'm sorry, you must be tired. An afternoon shopping with Alice and then a baseball game, I don't think even Emmett would have the stamina for that!" I said, a false tight laugh escaping me. I was such an idiot.
"I wouldn't want to intrude on your date with Miss Gardner." She said finally, still looking anywhere but at me. The sensible part of me knew that this was too much, too soon. Especially after how close we had just been in the bathroom. Nothing had actually happened. Well, that wasn't entirely true. I had once again, been overwhelmed by the feeling of comfortable intimacy that had led me to tell Esme all my fears for Emmett. The other thing to happen had been, unexpected and a little embarrassing. The combination of the softness of her skin, the firmness of the pressure she exerted as she kneaded my aching muscles and how close she had been, I could feel her breath tickle my ear as we had talked, had led to a pleasurable but totally unexpected and inappropriate stirring in my groin. Wait a minute, what had she just said?
"I'm sorry Esme, what did you say?"
"I was trying to say, with a really bad attempt at being funny, yes Carlisle, I would like to stay and see the movie. It's been a busy day, but after all the sleep I got yesterday I'm not really that tired yet."
"Good! I mean…about yesterday, I didn't want to have to sedate you, but you were so distressed…"
"I'm just glad that you didn't put me in the hospital."
"Why would I have done that? They would have only done the same thing, before palming you off on some overworked psyche resident. No, when you're ready to talk to someone, I know exactly who I want you to speak to."I said dismissively.
"Mmmhmm. Well just you make sure to give me plenty of notice of when and where you want me. I'd hate to upset your plans." She ground out, her tone sharp and her eyes blazing. Shit.
"Esme, I'm sorry, that came out all wrong…It's just, I want you to have the best help available and in my opinion that's a colleague and good friend of mine called Carmen Denali. But of course, if you don't agree…you are of course more than welcome to make your own arrangements." Sighing, I ran my hands through my hair. Esme remained by the door, she looked nervous, uncertain and still a little pissed off. She looked beautiful. Damn it Carlisle, get a grip.
" Carlisle, I appreciate all that you've done, are doing for me and I didn't meant to snap, but I have just left a man who has spent the last fourteen years telling me what to do, what to think, what to wear, even what to feel…" she said, her tone softening slightly.
"Understood, I'm sorry." I said, raising my hands.
There was silence for a minute.
"Where am I going to sit?" she said finally.
"Huh?" I said stupidly. It was official; I had regressed back to being a socially inept teenager.
"For the movie, it must be starting soon. Where would you like me to sit."? Esme said slowly.
"Oh right!" The bed was out. The chairs in my office were too hard, too heavy and too far away. That left the large wingback chair in the corner of the room by the window. I sometimes sat there to read, but more often than not, I left my clothes or books on it. And sure enough as I looked over, there was a large pile of clean laundry and a tie on the seat. I hurried over and moved the laundry into the bathroom, before dragging the chair to the end of the bed. I angled it slightly, so that Esme would have a clear view of the large flat screen TV that was housed in the media centre that took up nearly the entire wall at the foot of my bed.
"Your seat m'lady" I said, offering her an exaggerated bow. She giggled. It was such a lovely sound I didn't really care if it was caused by her thinking I was crazy. She sat. I rounded the bed and switched on the TV. The sides of the chair meant that I could only see Esme in profile. My eyes were drawn back to the TV screen by a high pitched buzzing. NO CABLE SIGNAL DETECTED was flashing across the screen.
"Please no…not now…"I muttered. I then proceeded to bellow "EMMETT!" The last time we had a cable failure was when Emmett had decided that he was going to link all the TV's in the house into his game station. Esme jumped slightly.
"IT WAS NOT ME!" Emmett bellowed back. I then I heard the sound of cell phones echoing up the stairs. I got up and headed to the bedroom door.
"I'll be right back." I called over my shoulder to Esme as I headed towards the stairs. I leant over the railing. Bella came out of the lounge closing her cell and looked up.
"Charlie's cables out too." She said. I nodded and headed back to my room. I was met by Esme at my bedroom door. We were impossibly close again.
"I guess we'll have to take a rain check on the movie." She said.
"I guess so. Esme, you can say no, but would you like to just stay and talk? You said yourself you're not sleepy yet and all I'll be doing is burying myself in a medical journal. I'd like to get to know you a little better."
"I would have thought that you learnt more than you ever wanted to know about me, the other night." Esme snorted
"I'm sure there is far more to you than that." I said softly.
"You think?" she sounded uncertain.
"Trust me, I'm a doctor."
She laughed. A proper peal of laughter, which sounded like tinkling bells, it really was a beautiful sound.
"You didn't really just say that?" she said, stepping back into the room.
"I think I did." I said shaking my head.
She sat back in her chair and I sat on the end of the bed so I could see her. We were quiet for a moment.
"How did you know that I liked Ava Gardner? Grace Kelly is in the movie as well."
"I don't know really. I guess it was a lucky guess and the feeling maybe that opposites attract. I mean, you're blonde and fair skinned like Miss Kelly and I just thought that maybe you'd prefer something different."
"Well, you were right. I always found Grace Kelly beautiful, but a little cold. Too, perfect if you know what I mean. She reminds me of my mother-in-law".
"If Elizabeth's mother looked like Grace Kelly, then Elizabeth really must have been something."
"She was." I said softly, a smile twitching on my lips. "But no, Jane Masen did not look like Grace Kelly, except in her own mind. What I meant was she was a very cold, emotionless woman. She was an old money blue blood who liked to look down her nose at people less fortunate, especially me." I said, my tone a little bitter. Esme raised an eyebrow questioningly at my tone.
"I was a scholarship kid, at Harvard due to hard work, not because of how much money mommy and daddy had donated. My father was a preacher and my mother was a homemaker and preachers wife. My father wasn't exactly thrilled by my choice of career, but I felt the best way to tend to my flock was medically. Elizabeth was at Harvard studying music and education, that's where Edward gets his talent on the piano from. I met Elizabeth when I wandered past a practice room one day. She was lost in practicing a piece, she looked so free, so beautiful." I said, a little wistfully as I let my mind wander.
"What did Elizabeth look like? If you don't mind me asking?" Esme asked shyly.
"I don't mind. She was blonde, but a coppery blonde like Edward, her hair wasn't curly, but wavy and unruly. Her eyes were emerald green and seemed to change colour in the light or when she was mad. She could have a fiery temper when she wanted, but once she loved you, she loved you completely. Um, she was a little smaller than you in height and build. She and her sister Mary were as different to their mother as you could imagine. Funny, smart, caring. Although, Mary didn't really come into her own until she met Big Mac McCarty. The apple didn't fall far from the tree as far as he and Emmett were concerned." I said, smiling as I remembered my friend.
"You must miss Elizabeth."
"Every day. But the pain does ease with time and if I'm honest, what I miss most now, is the companionship, the laughter, having someone to come home to, and talk about things with."
There was a strange look on Esme's face. Oh god! What must that have sounded like? Carlisle, can you say desperate? And where the hell did all that come from? What was it about this woman that made me want to bare my soul?
"Hang on a minute; I was supposed to be getting to know you better." I said quickly.
"There's not really anything to tell." Esme said, looking down at her hands, which she was nervously twisting in her lap.
"What did you study at college?"
"Architecture and fine art. Afterwards I was working as a junior at Elliot and Elliot." She said looking up at me shyly.
"Wow. I don't really know much about architecture, but even I have heard of them. You really must be good." I said impressed.
"Maybe, a long time ago." She sighed, leaning her head back against the chair.
"Unfortunately, there isn't much call for architecture or fine art in Forks…"
"Oh god, I wasn't thinking of anything like that job wise. I've been out of the game for too long. No, I just need a job. I need to start earning I need to pay you back"
I held up a hand.
"I told you, there is no rush. Or are you really in a hurry to move on?" I hoped that the, anxiety in my voice wasn't too obvious. Esme sat forward in her chair, resting her elbows on her thighs and her chin on her entwined fingers. She turned her head to look at me. Our gazes locked. Her eyes were full of confusion, uncertainty, anxiety and something else, that although I couldn't place it, it was making my heart misbehave.
"I can't impose forever." She said softly.
"You're not."I insisted.
She sighed and buried her face in her hands for a second, before holding her hands to either side of her face.
"It's crazy, I hardly know you, but I believe you when you say I am safe here. For the first time in god knows how long, I actually feel safe."
I was, having to lean forward to catch what she was saying.
"But, what if I mess it up? You could get tired of all my issues and I wouldn't blame you. And god forbid Charles actually finds me, because he won't just give up you know!" She said sharply, turning her head to look at me. "He's a vindictive, bully who would thoroughly enjoy making your and the children's lives a misery for daring to help me. I couldn't live with that." She said passionately.
"Esme, I like you, a lot. I want to help you. I want to…"wrap my arms around you never let you go and love you forever. "Be your friend at the very least. If I was worried about dealing with your issues, I would not have asked you to stay. I'm a compassionate man, but I'm not an idiot. And as for Charles, Elizabeth's parents and some of my so called class mates at Harvard gave me a master class in how to deal with vindictive bullies. And if the worst comes to the worse, I'll just let Emmett deal with him." I said smiling tightly at the last comment.
"I was thinking more along the lines of setting Alice on him. She may be small, but I wouldn't like to be the one to piss her off." Esme said with a weak smile. I laughed. I shifted back on the bed slightly. I so desperately wanted to kiss her at this moment.
"Can we see how things go? Give it a month or two." I asked hesitantly.
Esme was quiet and lost in thought. Finally, she sat back in the chair.
"I guess I could use a good friend right about now." She said smiling. My heart soared.
I was up early the next morning. Esme was still asleep. We had talked for a little while longer last night, deciding that she would spend today working on a resume and taking a look in the local paper at what jobs were available here in Forks and as far out as Port Angeles. Billy had towed her car yesterday and decreed that it was only for scrap. It had raised $200. Esme had tried to insist that I keep it as a down payment for what she owed. I had insisted that she keep it, as she was going to need spending money. But more importantly, I had talked her into staying in Forks for three months. I had three months to persuade her that she belonged here, with me.
I had heard the children, they were grown men and women, but to me they would, always be my children, get up about half an hour ago. I wasn't going to see them all together again till the weekend before Emmett shipped out, which they were coming back for, as it was also my birthday. Billy was having a big cook out down on La Push beach to as a combined birthday celebration for me and a farewell party for Emmett and Jake and Seth, who would also be shipping out, but for a lot longer than Emmett. I needed to talk to them about Esme. But as I approached the dining room, it appeared that they had felt the need to begin the discussion without me. I stopped to listen.
"Alice, are you sure that this isn't you just wishful thinking. They hardly know each other."Edward said.
"Bella, Rose, you must have seen the way he looks at her when he thinks no one is looking."
I was so busted. God that girl didn't miss a thing.
"She looks at him as well." Bella said.
So I wasn't imagining it! A million butterflies suddenly exploded in my stomach.
"And then there's what happened when he helped her out of the car yesterday when we got back from shopping. Can anybody say C-H-E-M-I-S-T-R-Y?" Rose laughed.
God, was it that obvious?
"And did nobody notice how he was playing during the game yesterday. I have never seen your dad so competitive." Jasper said quietly.
The dull ache in my shoulders reminded me of the idiot I made of myself yesterday. And I didn't think she had even noticed!
"But, we don't know how long she's going to stay and she's got issues."Edward countered.
"She's going to stick around, I can feel it." Alice trilled knowingly.
And for some reason, I was strangely comforted. Alice had some kind of weird gift when it came to things like this.
"And Edward, you are one too talk, how long was it before you decided that you were madly in love with Bella? Two hours?" Alice teased.
"That's different!" Edward groused.
Edward, you are my son and I love you I thought. But if you don't shut the hell up I'll…suddenly, there was a strange snorting and gurgling sound.
"Ed…wa…rd..." Bella coughed. There was quiet for a minute. "Edward, honey, I know you are biased where I am concerned, but when we met, I had just been sent here from Phoenix by a stepfather that couldn't, didn't want to care for me after my mom died. And you, were, to put it kindly, suffering over your mom's death."
"And then you split up."
"Yes, thanks Emmett. Honey, we're not really ones to talk about bringing issues to a relationship."Bella finished.
I love you Bella, I thought.
"I just don't want Dad getting hurt…"Edward muttered.
I hadn't realized I had moved, until I saw all my children staring at me from the dining table.
"And I love you for your concern son; I love all of you for worrying. But I am a big boy now. It's true, Esme may leave and I won't lie, I'll be disappointed if she does, she's a lovely woman. But it's her choice, I will not force her into doing or staying anywhere she's not happy. She's suffered enough of that already. As it is, we have agreed to be friends." I noticed Emmett waggle his eyebrows, but ignored it. "And she has agreed to stay in Forks for three months, get a job and see what she feels after that."
"You like her don't you Daddy?"Alice wheedled.
"I've just said, she's a lovely woman and I think we could be good friends. Anything else…well…we'll just have to see. And I WON'T have her pressured Alice."I said firmly.
"As if I would!" Alice said pouting.
"Well if she's staying and she doesn't want anyone asking too many questions, she'll need a cover story. Could she be an aunt or something?" Jasper pondered.
And then, all I could do was watch with a sense of gratitude and pride that brought a lump to my throat, as my children, despite their concerns worked out the best way to protect the newest and if I had my way, not so temporary member of the Cullen family.
ESPOV
Not wanting to intrude on Carlisle's remaining time with his children, I had decided when I woke up, to take a long shower and use some of the body washes and shampoos that Alice had left for me. I was hoping the hot water would relax me enough to let me think.
After first setting the temperature and speed of the water, I stepped in. The strategically placed jets of warm water, felt really good on my tense muscles. I had agreed to stay in Forks for three months. I was terrified that Charles would find me, that I would do or say something that would cause Carlisle and his family to regret taking me into their home, into their lives. All night, I had been tormented by the sound of Charles' cold, sneering voice echoing in my head.
"Three months, you'll be lucky if you can last three days, before you show them what a useless, embarrassing waste of space you are!"
But, just when it was starting to become too much and I was on the verge of screaming for him to stop, I heard Carlisle's warm deep voice, quietly at first, but gaining in strength.
"I like you Esme, a lot."
Until finally, I couldn't hear Charles anymore and all that I heard was Carlisle offering me his support and friendship. And all I could see was his beautiful face and hypnotic eyes radiating warmth and sincerity. It was crazy. I was still convinced that it must be a dream. But whatever it was, I was going to grab it with both hands. Because, I liked Carlisle Cullen as well, a lot. And would rather have him in my life, even for a short time, than not at all.
It was just after eight when I stepped out of the shower. The day was, according to Alice who I had heard grumbling as she headed down the stairs earlier that morning, unseasonably warm and sunny for Forks. Even for the end of June! Welcome to Forks Esme. I dressed in a pair of ¾ length linen trousers and a tunic patterned with flowers that had rag sleeves that covered just enough of the top of my arms to hide some of my bruises. Alice really did have a talent where it came to clothes I thought. I looked presentable, I actually felt quite smart. There was not much I could do about my hair it was at that awkward stage of growing out layers. It needed a good cut, but that would have to wait until I had some money. I had plans or the money that my car had raised as scrap. I brushed and tied my hair back. It wasn't as if I was going anywhere today anyway.
The sound of laughter, bickering and banging echoed up the stairs as Alice and Jasper and Rose and Emmett loaded up their cars and prepared to head back to the city. Although I didn't want to intrude, I really did want to say good bye and thank them once again for their kindness. I would be seeing them again in about three weeks, time I hoped, but it was the principle.
There was a light knock on my door.
"Come in?"
The door opened and Carlisle stood in the doorway. He was obviously dressed for work in smart slacks and a light navy blue shirt, the two top buttons of which were undone. He smiled warmly, but I couldn't help but notice how his eyes had quickly looked me up and down. I suddenly felt a little nervous.
"Good morning." He said brightly. He was still staring at me
"Good morning" I replied
"Um, the children are setting off soon and they really wanted to say goodbye." He said, leaning against the doorframe.
"I wanted to say goodbye to them as well, I just didn't want to intrude."
"Thank you, but we had an early breakfast together and they'll be home again before I get a chance to get used to the peace and quiet and having a full refrigerator." He laughed. I smiled.
"Well in that case…" I said stepping out into the hall and closing the door behind me. We walked to the top of the stairs, I took a step down, but Carlisle cursed. I looked round questioningly.
"Sorry, I've left something in my office you head down, just follow the sound of squabbling. You wouldn't think they were grown adults with responsible jobs." He said fondly. I nodded and stepped down another step, but he didn't move. He was still watching me intently.
"Isn't your office that way? I said indicating down the hall with my hand. The intensity of his gaze was making me a little uncomfortable.
"What? Oh yes, I…I just wanted to say that you look very nice this morning." He said quickly, before hurrying down the corridor. I was a little stunned. I wasn't used to compliments and I couldn't help the smile I felt twitch on my lips, or the blush that burned at my cheeks. Shaking myself, I hurried down the stairs, to find the front door open and Emmett lugging two cases outside, whilst Alice clung to his back.
"Don't ask." Jasper laughed as he came up out of the living room carrying a laptop case and yet more shopping bags.
"Okay. I still can't believe that those two are twins."I said laughing.
"I know, it's just one of those freaks of nature, but for all their hootin' and hollerin at each other, they adore each other and once they like you, that's it, they don't let you go. They've got your back forever. But all the Cullen's are like that. It's kinda comforting really." Jasper said thoughtfully.
"You know what Jasper, you're right, it is. I hope that the next time we see each other we can actually have a conversation without me becoming hysterical or…"
"My dearly beloved fiancée kidnapping you for a shopping spree…"he laughed
"Your words, I'm not getting on the wrong side of that little pixie." I said teasingly.
"She's a pussy cat really…" he began
"With damn sharp claws, jeez Alice…"Emmett huffed as he entered the house, with Alice still clinging to his shoulders. She pushed herself up a little so she was almost near his shoulders.
"Wass a matter brother bear? Rosie has much sharper nails than me and I know she uses them on much more sensitive parts of your anatomy than your thick old red neck." Alice teased.
"Rosie!" Emmett boomed."What have I told you about bragging about our sex life, you know how sensitive Jasper is."! He laughed. Jasper headed out to the car muttering what sounded like whatever! Alice hopped nimbly down off Emmett's back and followed him out. Rose came down the stairs behind me rolling her eyes. She smiled at me as we stood on the bottom step together.
"Aw, I wish I had a camera to capture this Kodak family moment." Emmett gushed. The confusion I felt, must have shown on my face because he continued.
"Seeing as you've agreed to stay for awhile and you don't want people asking too many questions, we thought, or Jasper did, cause he must have been some undercover spy in a previous life, that maybe it would be easier if we said that you were related to one of us. Too many people here remember the Masen side of the family but I really wanted you related to me somehow, so we decided that you could be Rosie's aunt that's going through a rough divorce and come here to stay with Dad for awhile till you get yourself sorted." He announced proudly. My head was spinning, so I didn't notice Rose move over to Emmett or slap the side of his head until he swore.
"Aunty Esme by marriage, are you gonna let her do that to your favourite nephew?" he, whined.
"Just this once yes." I said dully.
"Carlisle was going to run it past you tonight…" Rose said quickly.
"Please tell me he didn't?" Carlisle demanded, his voice sharp as he came down the stairs behind me. I turned on the stairs to look up at him.
"It was just an idea, I was going to run it past you tonight. If you didn't like it, we were going to try and think of something else." He said earnestly, obviously remembering how I had reacted when he had been so off hand about making plans on my behalf.
"I'm not mad." I said finally. Carlisle seemed to breathe again as I spoke. "I'm flattered, honoured that you'd go to this much trouble for me." I could feel tears pricking my eyes.
"See, I told you that she loved me best" Emmett crowed
"us, brother bear,we come a package remember?" Alice said sweetly, skipping back into the house.
"Wait a minute, she's my aunt!" Rose argued.
"Enough!"Carlisle called sharply, making me jump. He squeezed my shoulder in apology, causing a tingle of electricity down my spine. "I love you all I really do, but we'll have to save the genealogy debate for another time, as checkout time at Chateux Cullen has long since passed, meaning you need to go home and I need to go to work, to try and make up the time I spent playing hookie with Aro in Washington." He said stepping down past me. He opened his arms and was immediately smothered by Alice and Rose, before giving those awkward looking one armed man hugs to Jasper and Emmett. It was a heartwarming sight. But before my small pang of jealousy had time to rear its ugly head, I too was then smothered in hugs. I was a little surprised and a little stiff at first, but soon found myself enjoying the contact.
"We'll see you soon Esme, next time I'm home we'll have to do some proper shopping and maybe a spa appointment?" Alice said excitedly, I just nodded.
"Look after Daddy for me." She whispered. I nodded again. Suddenly, I was swept off my feet and staring Emmett in the face.
"Bye, Aunty Esme."
"Goodbye Emmett, take care of yourself and thankyou for my beautiful watch." I said quietly.
"You're welcome, now you have no excuses to keep us waiting for dinner. Now take care of pop for me, he's an oldie, but a goodie." He laughed. I just blushed as he put me down. It was only when he let me go, that I felt my already tender ribs start to ache.
They all piled out the front door and climbed into their cars. Carlisle stood in the center. I stood in the doorway waving. What was it about this family? And was the tiny spark of affection that Carlisle and I felt for each other really that obvious? Finally, with the extra revving of engines and honking of horns they were gone. Carlisle gazed after them for a minute before turning round and walking toward me.
"See I told you, that I wasn't the only one who wanted you to stay." He said softly. We moved back into the hall. He collected his case and the papers that he had obviously retrieved from his study earlier. When he turned to me, he looked genuinely concerned.
"I'm really sorry Esme, leaving you here alone like this, but I really do have to get to work. You see, when I met you on Friday, I was on my way back from a two night stay in Washington which was really meant to only be an overnight."
"With really old and really loaded uncle Aro." I said remembering Alice's description. God what was I saying, I had no right to…
"Exactly." Carlisle laughed. "He can be a cantankerous old coot, but Aro really is a brilliant and very kind man." He said. "Now, Bella has left the keys to her Volvo in the kitchen in case you want to go into town or anything. It's the slate grey one."
"I remember, we used it on Sunday. But what about Bella? Doesn't she need it to get to work?"
"Edward's playing chauffer and before you say it, no he doesn't mind, at, all. It means he can drive her to school and give the evil eye to all the horny teenage boys that have crushes on Bella. No, I think they are going to enjoy being back in his Volvo. But if Charlie catches them this time, they're on their own!" He chuckled. It was a lovely, infectious sound.
"I know your planning on doing your resume today and doing some job hunting, but would you like to come into town and join me for lunch.?" He asked shyly.
"Won't I be disturbing you?"
"No, even doctors have to eat." He said.
I really didn't fancy being in the big house by myself all day.
"Ok, but I buy lunch." I insisted.
He made a sound in the back of his throat that really did sound like a growl. And for some reason, I found it incredibly sexy.
"Okay, okay. About one thirty?" he said over his shoulder as he headed to the Mercedes.
"See you then". I called. Why was my stomach full of butterflies? And why the hell when he drove away, did my heart begin to splutter in my chest? I shook my head and tried to focus my thoughts. If I was going to type out my pitiful resume, do a little job hunting on line and in the local paper which sat on the hall table with half a dozen others and get a head start on the dinner I proposed to cook for tonight and meet Carlisle for lunch, I had to get organized.
Closing the heavy oak door behind me, I walked to the left of the large sweeping staircase which took up a large part of the entrance hall, stopping to pick up the papers on the way. I stepped down the three steps which led down into the lounge. On my right as I entered on a raised platform, was Edward's Steinway. Loaded old uncle Aro, must have been very generous with his nieces and nephews I thought. On my left, was a fire place which took up most of the wall. The mantle piece above it, was groaning beneath the weight of family photos. I wandered over, running my hand along the back of one of the large squishy couches that sat infront of the fire place.
The pictures showed all the children at various points of their lives, from gap toothed eight year olds posing with a new bike, to Edward graduating medical school and a picture of an imposing but incredibly handsome looking Emmett in his military uniform. Bella, Rose and Jasper were there as well, in younger years and for the two girls at their weddings and Alice and Jasper at a formal event. Carlisle had mentioned something about Alice and Jasper being engaged. I smiled as I thought of what a nightmare Alice would be during the planning of the wedding, but what a beautiful bride she would make. I wondered when the wedding was. Would I still be here to see it? Would I be invited? I tried to ignore the internal voice which was screaming a very loud YES, to both of those questions. Then I saw her. She was sitting on a porch swing, cuddling a young Edward on her lap. Her coppery red wavy hair was blowing across her face, but it couldn't hide the beautiful carefree smile on her face or the happiness in her eyes. I suddenly felt myself welling up at how unfair it was that Elizabeth Masen had been denied the chance to see what wonderful, kind and compassionate human beings the children in her blended family had become. Because from what Carlisle had said, she was mainly responsible for shaping their early formative years.
I also thought of the love and companionship she was missing out on with the wonderful man she had been married to. Although for some reason, the unshed tears suddenly became a painful lump in my throat as I let my mind wander to the thought of Carlisle and Elizabeth together now. Was it jealously? Or was it guilt at the feelings that seemed to overwhelm me every time I was around him?
I blinked quickly several times and swallowed hard before I headed father down the longish room, which was being bathed in the warm sunlight which was streaming in through the French patio doors at the end of the room. My feet echoed noisily on the hard wood floors when I didn't walk on the various rugs scattered about. There were paintings on the walls, that looked to be original. This wasn't going to get my resume written. Stepping into a large, high ceilinged room, which led off the sitting room, I saw the PC on a work station in the corner of what, judging by the large TV, mess of games consuls and dart board, could only be the den. I sat down and switched the PC on.
I wasn't totally computer illiterate, due to the many invoices and letters that Charles bought home for me to type that he did not want to bother the procession of secretaries that he employed and slept with, with. But I had no formal computer use qualifications. I had no real qualifications that weren't fourteen years out of date. All I could do was embellish a little on what transferable skills I did have and hope for the best.
After a couple of hours, I had something I hoped was passable and a headache. I had left in such a hurry, I had left the glasses I use for reading and computer work on my night only part of the document I was really proud of was the name I had typed at the top. ESME HOLLISTER. If I was going to move on from my past, getting rid of the name of the man who had caused me so much pain seemed the most logical place to start. I realized looking at the clock in the corner of the screen, that it was nearly twelve and I was starving. In all the excitement of the others leaving, I had forgot to have breakfast. Saving my work, I stood up, stretching my back and headed back to the hall, turning right this time at the staircase.
The kitchen was large, open plan, with another set of French doors, which opened out onto a deck that seemed to wrap around the back of the house. The view was amazing. Rolling green lawns led down to a pond, framing that on either side was forest. Across the pound, just visible through a hedge of conifer trees was the shell of a house, that must be the one that Bella and Edward were having built.
Turning back to the kitchen, there was as I sort of remembered from the other night, fitted oak units, a breakfast bar, a large fridge and in the centre, a large island with a rack hanging from above that contained every type of cooking pot that a chef, let alone a good cook like Bella could ever need. I went to the fridge and opened the door. It was well stocked and I'm sure Bella did her best, but for a house with two doctors living in it, there was a lot of junk food. I decided then to make Carlisle and I some lunch. I knew he wouldn't have much time, so I settled for some turkey and salad sandwiches. I also wanted to have room for his dinner. When I was done and the sandwiches and soda's put away in a paper bag, I picked up Bella's car keys from the counter. The sweet girl had even written out directions to town and the clinic.
It didn't take too long before I was in down town Forks. It was definitely a small town, the main buildings being the diner a small parade of shops, the sheriff's office a market and at the far end of town, THE CULLEN CLINIC. It was a two story building made of red brick that had large windows that made it look positively futuristic compared to the other buildings. I pulled into the parking lot round the back, to see Edward and Carlisle remonstrating with a delivery man over a huge pile of brown boxes. As I got out of the car, I saw Edward pinch the bridge of his nose and then say, it a strained voice;
"Why the hell, would be order 500 boxes of tounge depressors?"
I knew I shouldn't, I could see how stressed Carlisle and Edward both were, but I couldn't help but laugh. An old episode of MASH came to mind. I was in two minds about staying, when Carlisle looked up and waved me over. I walked over slowly.
"But, I can't take them back, it's not on my sheet." The delivery driver whined. Edward looked as if he was about to tell the guy where he could stick his sheet.
Then, a dark haired, pretty young woman hurried out of the main doors over to us.
"I'm really sorry Edward, but Harry Thomas has developed a pretty high fever and a little rash after his immunization yesterday, Chelsea's wheezing is getting much more pronounced and Andy Carlton has a REALLY, large piece of lego up his nose." She said anxiously. Edward pinched the bridge of his nose again. Carlisle clapped him on the shoulder.
"Go son, I'll handle this. Julie is there any sign of Lauren?"
"Fraid not Dr Cullen, Angela is covering the desk in your clinic, but she's got a two patients waiting herself."
Carlisle growled and muttered something about "that damn girl". Edward disappeared inside with Julie . I touched Carlisle on the arm.
"I'll go…"
"Please don't, could you do me a favour?" he asked, his tone desperate.
"Okay." I said cautiously. I owed the man more than one favour, but I was a little nervous about what it might entail.
"Could you go into my waiting room and just let the people in their know, that I won't, be long." He said pointedly, glaring at the delivery man. "And could you maybe just stay by the phone, take messages?" he said quickly, he was blushing. He must have seen the fright on my face
"Esme, I know it's a lot to ask…"
"Don't be silly." I said with more confidence than I actually felt. The warm smile he gave me, gave me a boost of confidence.
"Oh and if you can, please, please try and stop Billy Black, tall Native American guy from leaving. I really do need to see him. It's taken me nearly a month to get him to make this appointment." He said seriously. I just nodded. How the hell was I going to do that?
Upon entering the building, the main reception of which was bright, clean and comfortable for a doctor's office, the first thing I heard, was the sound of crying babies and squealing children. Julie was sitting behind a circular reception desk. Through a glass wall behind her, I could see a waiting room full of parents and children. In one corner there was a rocking horse, blackboard, fish tank and various toys for the little ones. In the other corner, there was a media station complete with games consul's and what looked like an I-pod dock.
"Dr Cullen's office is up the stairs." Julie said. I smiled and mounted the plushy carpeted stairs. Carlisle's waiting room was as warm, bright and comfortable as it was possible for a doctor's office to be. I approached the reception desk. That was placed outside a glass walled waiting room. A friendly young woman, with a slightly harassed look was sitting behind it.
"Carlisle sent me up." I said.
"Thank god, I have patients waiting." She said springing up.
"Are you a doctor as well?"
"I'm an optometrist. Angela Cheney." She said smiling and holding out her hand.
"Esme, Esme Hollister." I said, the name sounding a little strange on my tounge. I shook Angela's hand.
"It's not usually this crazy Esme, it's just since Sue Swan retired, Lauren Mallory has been "working" here if you could call it that. She's hopeless. Um, just take messages for now if the phone rings. When I get a chance I'll come and show you the booking system. Oh and…" she said pulling me slightly further forward and dropping her voice, as the door to the waiting room was half open. "No matter what Jessica Newton says, she cannot make an appointment with Edward."
"I thought he was a paediatrician?"
"He is mainly, but when Carlisle is busy, he takes some of his cases and vice versa."
Angela hurried out the door and down the hall. I looked into the room. There were a few disgruntled looking people, including a girl of about thirty, who dressed as if she was seventeen, which would have been fine if she still had the figure for it. There was also, a tall, distinguished looking Native American man, who was shifting in his seat and eyeing the door. He had to be Billy Black. I entered the room and cleared my throat
"Um…"I began nervously "Dr Cullen apologizes for the delay, but he wanted me to assure you, it wouldn't be much longer." Come on Esme, this is the least you can do. I went back out to the desk and sat down. The phone looked simple enough. Immediately I was aware of two people moving towards me. I looked up into the prematurely aged and over made up face of Jessica Newton.
"Um, I'd like to cancel my appointment with Dr Cullen, I'll make an appointment with Edward instead." She squeaked.
"I'm sorry…" I began smoothly. "That won't be possible."
"Why?" she demanded.
Yes why was that Esme? I thought to myself, hoping to keep the panic out of my face and my voice.
"He's booked solid the entire week."I replied.
"That's ok, I'll make the appointment for Friday, he's always quiet then." She countered.
"I'm afraid not. He's away on Friday. He's taking a long weekend with his WIFE." I said pointedly. She scowled and I heard Billy Black chuckle softly.
"Now if you really can't wait MRS Newton."
She huffed and then flounced back to her seat.
"You would think that that girl would have got the hint by now." Billy Black said, his dark eyes shining with laughter. He was a handsome man with strong features and russet coloured skin, there was a timbre to his voice that gave him an air of authority.
"How long has she been after Edward?" I asked quietly.
"Since high school." He replied.
"I'm surprised that Bella tolerates it." I said. He chuckled again.
"Oh Bells kicked her ass."
"BELLA!" I exclaimed in disbelief.
"You know Bells?" he asked.
"I'm…I'm staying with the Cullen's for a little while. I'm Esme, Esme Hollister Rose's Aunt." I said, hoping that the tremor wasn't obvious in my voice. He observed me for a minute before smiling.
"So it was your car." He said.
"Yes." I said softly.
"I guess Rose doesn't get her skill with cars from you." He said.
" Guess not." I said. Rose, the supermodel look alike was good with cars?
"You staying long?"
"Not sure. I'm in the middle of a messy divorce, I needed a fresh start. But Rose and Emmett's place is so small, Carlisle offered to let me stay."
Would he believe me?
He nodded after a minute.
"He's a good man Doctor Cullen. All the Cullen's are." Billy said.
"And too think at one time we couldn't be in the same room. I'm touched Billy, really I am." Carlisle said teasingly. Billy spun round and scowled.
"I should of said, when he's not forcing people into medical tests they don't need or want." He grumbled. "You wouldn't have caught me, if it hadn't been for that damn Newton bimbo trying to get a chance to hit on your Edward and your new, receptionist. She's a lot more charming and attractive than that Lauren…" Billy said, still grumbling. I blushed.
"Yes, I think so, I'm hoping she'll stay on." Carlisle said. I blushed harder.
Carlisle worked through his patients until finally at about 4pm, the room was empty and Carlisle came out. He was wearing a scrub top over the top of his pants.
"Any messages?" he asked.
I handed him the pad. He skimmed it and then looked up at me and smiled.
"I promised you lunch and I don't know about you, but I 'm starving." He said.
I was I had picked a little as I made the sandwiches but that was ages ago.
"I made sandwiches." I said shyly.
"Excellent!" he beamed. I went down to the car and returned with the sandwiches. Carlisle was in his office. It was comfortable, comforting. Him. We sat on one of the sofa's and began to eat.
"Did you sort out the tounge depressors?" I asked.
"Eventually. That girl Lauren I swear. I only hired her as I was desperate after Sue Swan retired."
"Swan? Is she Bella's mom?"
"Step-mother. She and Charlie have been married for about ten years. You'll probably meet her at the cookout at La Push beach."
I looked confused.
"It's the weekend before Emmett ships out. Billy's having it as a send off for Emmett and his sons Jake and Seth and…" he bowed his head and mumbled a little. "it's my birthday the day after…"
"Am I even invited?"
"Of course! Even if you hadn't charmed Billy enough for him to ask you, Emmett would be hurt if his favourite aunt wasn't there. And I would really like you there." He said. His intense gaze was making my stomach flip. I smiled and nodded.
"What are you going to do about a secretary?"
"I meant what I said. I was hoping you'd stay on."
"Carlisle I…"
"Coped brilliantly. And Edward is all for the idea, especially after Billy told him how you cut Jessica off at the pass." Carlisle insisted. "You can still look for another job, just I really need the help." He said.
"Well, I do owe you."
"No Esme." He said sharply causing me to recoil slightly. "I'm sorry. I don't want you to think like that. I told you, I'd like us to be friends. The reason I want you to stay is because you're good with people, capable, intelligent and it would help me knowing that I don't have to worry about this part of things. But I will admit, that I like the idea of having you around." He said passionately.
And that was how I ended up becoming Carlisle's were a little curious, but my story about being Rose's aunt seemed to hold up. It helped that although Rose and I didn't exactly look alike, we had close enough colouring and build and that as people kept telling me "Carlisle Cullen is a good man." Over the next few weeks, I saw what they meant. I watched him with patients, his friends, his family and me. It was silly, but my favourite part of the day was the morning and evening when Carlisle would insist on me riding to and from work with him. It felt strange, but nice. I felt a bit like a teenager as we talked and laughed and listened to music. There were other little things. He took out subscriptions to architectural magazines I had always been fascinated by, but could never afford. He looked after me during a migraine caused by my staring at a computer screen without my glasses. We had almost had a fight over me not telling him for my need for glasses. My temper and my tears were still quite close to the surface at times.
And alongside the times I spent getting to know Carlisle, I also got to know the family a little better. I spent many a happy evening chatting to Bella as we halved the domestic chores. I had sat, listened and complemented Edward on his piano playing, even having fun as he tried to teach me chopsticks, but it wasn't until one evening the week before Emmett was due home for Carlisle's birthday and his far well party that we had our longest conversation.
I was in the kitchen, when he burst through the back door cursing. I jumped and dropped a pot.
"God, I'm sorry Esme. It's just I've just been talking to the plumber. Apparently, there is something wrong with the way the floor has been layed in the master bathroom of the house. It won't drain, it needs…"he struggled for the right term
"Re screeding?" I suggested.
"That's it.!" He said snapping his fingers. He looked at me, a little surprised that I knew the term.
"Charles owns a construction company." I said quietly.
He smiled slightly and nodded before continuing his rant. "But the building contractor is saying that he will have to charge extra to fix it."
"That's rubbish. In your contract with the contractor, there should be a snagging clause. It means that if there are any problems with the build that make the house potentially unlivable, he is liable to fix it free of charge. If he refuses, you can withhold part of his fee." I said. I had typed enough to know, I also had vague memories from a class in college. He looked at me intently for a minute.
"Wait there!" he said holding up a finger. He hurried out of the kitchen, returning two minutes later with a contract. He handed it to me. I sat at the breakfast bar and reached for my glasses. It didn't take me long to find it."
"Here…" I said pointing. "Edward, I'm not trying to tell you your business, but I noticed that your contractor has given himself the maximum time for everything. A lot of this work could have been done and done properly a lot quicker." I said. "I know you and Bella are anxious to be in your own home." I said. He nodded and sat down on the other side of the breakfast bar from me.
"We really do want to start trying for a baby. That's why we moved back here. I didn't want to make the same mistakes that Dad did. He's a great dad, but he wasn't around much when we were little. I don't want that." He said, running a hand through his unruly hair.
"Your father feels a lot of guilt about that." I said softly.
"He shouldn't." Edward said quickly. "He had no choice in the matter. My grandparents didn't like him, even tried to pay him to leave my mother, but he wouldn't. Uncle Aro provided an allowance that meant that they could buy this house and later, my mom taught piano, but my dad had to work. My trust fund and the clinic mean that I can actually spend time with my kids." Edward said.
"And I guess, the practice required, to have a baby, isn't easy when you live with your dad." I said, smiling and blushing at the same time. He smirked and nodded.
"Esme, I have a meeting with the contractor tomorrow. You know what you're talking about when it comes to all the jargon. Could you be here, for moral support?" he asked nervously.
"Um…if you're sure…" I said, touched that he had so much faith in me.
"Thank you Esme."Edward said leaning over the breakfast bar and kissing my cheek.
"Emmett won't be happy if he thinks he's got competition for his aunty Esme's affections." Carlisle teased as he entered the kitchen. He was smiling, but I swore I could see a flash of jealousy in his eyes. No, that was Charles and why would Carlisle be jealous? We were just good friends.
The next morning, I was at the site of Bella and Edward's house. His contractor was a tall, thin, sharp faced man by the name of James Tanner. His initial charm soon disappeared when he realized that Edward and I knew what we were talking about. At one stage when I argued a point, James made to come towards me threateningly. Edward was infront of me before I could blink. I froze. James' face had disappeared, all I could see was Charles. I didn't hear much of the end of the conversation. All I heard was James' threats and his car racing off.
"Esme, I'm sorry. Are you alright?" Edward demanded anxiously. He was looking me over with his doctor's eye. All I could do was nod.
"Come on let's get you back to the house. Maybe you shouldn't go to work today." He said, wrapping an arm around my shaking shoulders.
"No!" I said quickly pulling away from him slightly. "I don't want to be alone." I said.
He nodded. I was scared. James had bought back memories of Charles that I thought I was managing to at least suppress. And as crazy as it sounded, I needed the comfort and sense of security that only being around Carlisle could give me.
Carlisle was furious and wanted to call the police, but I pleaded, citing not wanting any type of trail for Charles to follow. He agreed eventually, but insisted that he take me home early. I agreed as long as we stopped at the market on the way. I needed to do something to take my mind off it. I was going to cook my mushroom ravioli. Charles called it slop, but I was proud of it.
A few people stared as Carlisle and I walked round the market together. But strangely, I stopped noticing after a while. I felt safe and was enjoying myself, even when I gently chastised Carlisle for trying to sneak in too many salty or spicy treats. He grumbled, but only half heartedly.
That night, the ravioli went down well with everyone. It wasn't until I was at my insistence, helping Carlisle clean up that I found out why Bella and Edward had been shooting each other loaded looks and laughing, before rushing upstairs.
"Mushroom Ravioli was what they ate on their first date. They were both so nervous they shared. I probably wouldn't head upstairs too soon, it might be a little noisy." Carlisle said awkwardly.
"Oh, OH!" I said blushing.
"I was wondering if maybe we could see our movie tonight." He said.
"Is it on again?" I asked.
"DVD". He replied, blushing.
I knew I was in or a restless night and was glad of the distraction. I also wanted to spend as much time in Carlisle's calming presence as possible. We watched the movie and I actually relaxed a little. But that night my shock and fear hit me. I was at the site of Bella and Edward's house. James was chasing me through the shell of the house whilst Charles laughed below. Finally, James caught me and dragged me down to where Charles was. He grabbed hold of me and made me watch as James started beating Carlisle who had come to help me.
"CARLISLE!" I screamed, sitting bolt upright, heart pounding, shaking. The room was dark, but suddenly, my bedroom door, which I didn't even realize I'd locked, was being shook firmly.
"Esme! Esme open the door." Carlisle pleaded, banging on the door. Almost falling out of bed, I stumbled to the door. I finally got it open. Carlisle was standing there. He was wearing grey sleep pants and a white T shirt. His face was fearful. He was there. He was ok. I flung my arms round his neck and began to sob.
"You're ok…he didn't hurt you." I mumbled.
He was rubbing my back.
"Esme I'm fine sweetheart, who would hurt me?" he asked.
"Dad?" Edward questioned as he came down the stairs.
"It was a bad dream. She's ok…" he called over his shoulder. Edward went back to bed. Carlisle eased me back into my room. He sat me on the bed and turned on the lamp. I winced at the light. He handed me a box of tissues and a glass of water. He knelt down infront of me. His handsome face full of concern. I reached out and smoothed the hair from his face. He took my hand in his and placed a sweet kiss on the palm.
"He…found…me. He had me…watch as…as that…" I started to cry again. He reached up and stroked my hair.
"Darling, I'm fine, your fine. You're safe here." He said softly.
"I only feel safe when I'm with you." I burst out, my voice still thick with confusion tears and sleep. His eyes seemed to light up.
"Well, in that case I'm not going anywhere." He said. He settled me back into bed, before settling himself ontop of the covers and holding me in his arms.
"I'm sorry." I mumbled into his chest.
"What are friends for."? He said softly stroking my hair.
The next morning, it took me a moment to remember what happened. When it came back to me, I let out a low groan that caused Carlisle, who was still holding me, to stir. I was embarrassed, it was crazy, it was too fast. But I was happy and didn't want to move. But I did and this caused his eyes to open.
"Esme." He said roughly. I looked back over my shoulder and smiled weakly.
"I don't know what to say." I said finally.
Something had changed between us. But neither of us knew how to voice the emotions, thoughts and feelings that were overwhelming both of us. I went to stand, but he caught my hand.
"Just promise me that you won't do anything stupid like leave."
"I don't think I could, even if I wanted to." I said softly, heading to the bathroom.
It was barely lunch time when there was the sound of cars racing down the drive. Carlisle headed out to the door. I followed. Bella and Edward hung back a little.
Alice and Rose were climbing out of their cars, followed by their partners.
"Hi Daddy!" Alice trilled, wrapping her arms round Carlisle before moving on to me
"You're early." He said.
"Not by much and there is so much to do."
I had a feeling Edward and Bella had something to do with their siblings arriving early. And Emmett soon confirmed my fears.
"So Eddie, where do we find this James douche bag?" he demanded.
"No Emmett! You'll have enough violence to deal with soon enough." I said.
"I'm not having a douche like that try and rip off my brother AND THEN, scare my aunty. It's not happening." Emmett growled, shaking his head.
"Please…" I pleaded near to tears. We're meant to be here for a happy occasion, well as happy as it can be considering it means my favourite nephew will be leaving me for three months." I said, desperately trying to change the subject.
"See, I told you! I knew she loved me best." Emmett crowed scooping me up. I could tell by the look in his eye that he was humouring me. We moved inside the house and the conversation turned to the essentials that Alice said we needed for our trip to the beach, the presents that Alice and Jasper and Rose and Emmett had bought back from their time in the Hamptons. And finally, Carlisle's upcoming birthday. The teasing continued as the boys and Carlisle were heading out the door later that evening. They were going to Port Angeles to play pool and generally spend some time together. That left me with the girls.
Alice Rose and Bella kept up a stream of general patter as we watched movies and I allowed Alice to attack my nails and toes. Bella and I both argued that a, we were going to the beach and b, we still had a lot of food to make. Bella had been filling me in on the boys on the reservation and how much they ate. Alice just waived away our concerns and said that she would just do it again. I also got a chance to talk a little with Rose and learn a little more 'family history'.
"This James jerk really scared you huh?" Rose said finally.
There it was. The reason they had come home early and were looking at me as if I was going to fall apart at any second.
"My, Charles owns a construction company."
"Yeah, Bella told us that you caught on to how he was ripping her and Edward off." Alice said encouragingly.
"Well, when the meeting got heated and he came towards me, I saw Charles, not James and then…"
"You had that dream." Bella said, her tone apologetic but firm. I nodded.
"This is embarrassing. It's crazy, it's too fast…but I really like your dad. I only feel safe, happy…when he's around…"
Alice began to squeal excitedly, Rose and Bella rolled their eyes, but were smiling.
"We knew it. We knew it from the first time we saw you together!"
"What?"
"Esme." Alice said seriously, "you could practically see the sparks between you."
"But. I have…"
"Issues, yeah we know. I'm not trying to put belittle them But Esme, where does it say you have to be alone whilst you deal with them? Why can't you let dad, us be there properly." Rose said.
"I could hurt him."
"He could hurt you. He's been alone along time." Bella reasoned.
"But deep down, you know he won't, don't you." Alice said, practically vibrating with excitement.
I nodded. "Is it even healthy for me to be seeing someone so soon?" I said weakly.
Rose snorted. "We're not saying you have to start having wild monkey sex and get married in the next week."
"Yeah, with my own wedding to plan, I will need at least a year." Alice said thoughtfully.
I looked shocked. Bella shook her head. "You think she's joking." She said wryly.
My head was full when I went to bed, so I wasn't sleeping when I heard the quiet tap on my door. I unlocked it. It was Carlisle dressed for bed. We hadn't seen much of each other since this morning.
"Carlisle, you don't have to…"
"Yes I do, for two reasons. First, last night was the best night's sleep I've had in ages and two, I don't think I can perform the gymnastics required to get past the squeaky board outside Emmett and Rose's room twice in one night.!" He said grinning. I laughed and let him in. I noticed him look at what I wore for bed. Sleep pants, a tank top a hoodie and ballet pumps. It was years of not knowing when I was going to be pulled out of bed in the middle of the night, when I was going to have to run or head to a hospital that caused me to do it. And I knew that this was going to be one bad habbit that would take more time to break.
We settled down as we had the night before. He was right. The comfort I felt in his arms was amazing. But tonight, I was suffering a little as I was fully aware and I could feel how my curves, seemed to fit against his hard body. I was surprised he couldn't feel the charge of electricity between us. But I definitely felt how his heart was sputtering in his chest.
"I think…" I began quietly. "That I might need to make that appointment with Carmen was it?" he nodded.
"Any reason?"
"A few." I replied. I could feel him smile against my hair as I laid with my head buried in his chest. Things were changing between us and we both knew, that it wouldn't be long, before we gave in to the need to touch each other, however slowly. I needed an unbiased person to help me understand how I felt about that.
The next day was a blur of cooking and a trip to the hair salon. My hair was shaped, the layers put back in and the colour evened out to a deep honey. Then it was the day of the cook out. It was August, but the skies were grey and threatening rain. Breakfast was a loud affair, with Carlisle receiving his presents of a hearing aid, a zimmer frame and slippers. These were soon replaced by a rare first edition, clothes and tickets to the theatre. I shyly handed over my presents of a pen and a vinyl recording of a Bobby Darin concert that I had come across in a thrift store. He thanked me and seemed genuinely happy, but I was still unsure, till he came back into the kitchen when I was wrapping the last of the food to be transported. I had my back to him, but I was okay as long as I knew people were there and didn't sneak up on me as Charles loved to do, right before he grabbed me by the hair.
"Esme." Carlisle began, I stopped. He was moving up behind me. He gently placed his hands on my shoulders and bent his head so that he could whisper in my ear.
"I really did like my presents, thank you." He said, before squeezing my shoulders and walking away. I let out the breath that I didn't realize I was holding. I was tingling all over, most noticeably between my legs, which was also now a little moist. How the hell did he do that, with just with his voice?
"Esme!" Bella called.
"Coming!" I called back, trying but not completely succeeding in pulling myself out of my hazy thoughts.
Despite the weather, La Push beach was beautiful. And whilst I stuck closely to the Cullen's for most of the afternoon, I did find myself having a good time. The trash talk between the Cullen's and the Black's and that was just Carlisle and Billy! Was intense, but funny. The best of three football games, somehow ended in a draw! The Black boys, Jake and Seth were polite, funny and just lovely. Although, I felt a pang of I wasn't sure what when I saw Leah, Jakes wife with their new baby. And I wasn't the only one. I saw Rose excuse herself. Taking my 'aunty' duties seriously, I followed. She was looking out to sea, the breeze blowing her hair across her face, but doing a poor job of hiding the tears. The weak sun which had shown itself a couple of hours into the party was sinking into the horizon making it cold. I was glad of the teal coloured cowl neck sweater, jeans, leather blazer and boots that Alice suggested I wear. Rose must have heard me approach, but she didn't turn round.
"I know it's pathetic. I can't believe I am jealous Jacob the mutt having puppies." She snapped.
"The mutt?" I queried.
"Oh, when Bella and Edward split up, he hung round her like a lap dog. He was actually a good friend to her, but we still teased him called him puppy and mutt. He's a good guy really, just don't tell him I said so."
"My lips are sealed. And it's not pathetic. I was a little jealous myself." I said quietly.
"Shit sorry. It wasn't that long ago you…" Rose said spinning round.
"Miscarried no…" the words stung.
"I don't mean to be horrible, but at least you got pregnant."
"Rose, you're a young woman."
"With one totally blocked tube and one so badly scared it's useless." She said bitterly. I must have gasped. She grimaced.
"Scumbag boyfriend before Emmett gave me an STI, by the time I realized and got treated, it was too late. So the only option is IVF, which might not work and which we can't start till he…comes home."
And there it was. It wasn't the baby so much or the fact that the IVF might not work. It was her fears about Emmett not coming home that were causing her pain. I had learnt quickly, that Rose was not one for displays of emotion, unless it was anger or sarcasm. But, I took a chance and pulled her into my arms. She froze for a moment, then, began to weep into my shoulder. I didn't speak there was nothing I could say that she wanted to hear. I couldn't promise her that Emmett would come home safely. I just held her and rubbed her back in a way that I hoped was comforting. Finally, she pulled away.
"You're not bad at this aunty thing." She hiccoughed. It was the nicest thing she could have said.
As it became darker, a fire was started on the beach and we all sat around listening to Billy tell stories of warriors from the history of the Quileute tribe. Carlisle then stood.
"Emmett may not be my biological child, but I could not love or be prouder of him if he was. Not just because of the way he is bravely serving his country for a second time. But because of the wonderful man he has become." He rasped, the tears running unchecked down his cheeks. Emmett and he then embraced fiercely. There wasn't a dry eye around the fire.
"They do say sentimentality is a sign of aging." Emmett said finally, causing everyone to laugh.
After a boisterous rendition of Happy Birthday and the mauling of his Carlisle's birthday cake, the night began to wind down as Emmett would be leaving very early in the morning. I was helping Bella, Sue and Leah clean up a little, filling trash bags with rubbish and loading things into cars, when I saw Carlisle wander down the beach. Sue Swan who really was lovely and had given me tips on working at the clinic and the various patients and people I would have to deal with followed my gaze.
"I was riddled with guilt after Harry died and I started to have feelings for his best friend." She said softly. I spun round. I had had to tell her my messy divorce story, what she didn't know was that I hadn't been single for as long as she thought.
"But, I realized in the end, corny as it sounds, that what I felt for Charlie wasn't more than I felt for Harry, just different. And that life is too short, yep that one too." She laughed. "And I wanted to live what was left of mine, not just exsist and wait until I shuffled off to meet Harry by the pearly gates. And that meant loving Charlie." She finished a little emotion in her voice as she mentioned her husband.
"Is it that obvious, Carlisle and I, I mean."
She laughed. "Honey, you would have to be totally blind and deaf." She said squeezing my arm. I was glad of the darkness to hide my blush.
"He usually goes about two hundred meter's further up the beach, where the fallen trees are." She said matter of factly.
I started walking, shaking not only from the cold. My stomach churning. I saw him where Sue said he would be. He was sitting on a log of drift wood string out at the sea.
"That was beautiful, what you said about Emmett." I said softly. He jumped slightly, before turning to face me. I walked up beside him and indicated with my hand if I could sit. He sighed, grabbed my hand and pulled me down.
"It was all true. I love that boy…" he stuttered slightly, his voice catching with emotion. He was still holding my hand. I entwined my fingers with his before turning them so his was on top as I raised them to my lips and laid a gentle kiss. He seemed to gasp, the moonlight partially illuminating his face let me see his smile.
"Did you have a nice birthday Carlisle? Get everything you wanted?" Was that my voice that sounded so low and breathy? Please don't let him laugh.
"Almost everything." He replied. His voice had also dropped, it was rough, but with the velvet edge it had had in the kitchen earlier.
"Oh? What did you want that you didn't get?" I whispered. He must be able to hear heart trying to escape my chest. Breathe Esme. Breathe.
"A birthday kiss. May I kiss you Esme?"
Oh god, yes please. I thought. But what I actually said was;
"I'm a little out of practice." My tounge peeped out, without me realizing, to moisten my suddenly dry lips. And Carlisle made that sexy growling sound again somewhere in the back of his throat.
"So am I…" he smiled. With his free hand, he reached across and tucked some loose strands of hair back behind my ear. We leant in towards each other, but didn't touch, both uncertain, both enjoying the feeling of each other's breath. I giggled nervously. He smiled. "I'm going to kiss you now." He said, the vibrations from his voice sending another unfamiliar rush of pleasure and moisture to my core.
Our lips brushed softly, once, twice. The choking, rough assaults on my mouth that Charles had classed as kisses and even my limited experience before them, had not prepared me for the feel of Carlisle's soft lips moving with mine or his taste. So when our lips met for a third time, they crashed together with an intensity that caused him to moan softly and me whimper. Going by instinct, I took his top lip in my mouth and sucked on it gently. His taste was intoxicating. He growled again in the back of his throat as he claimed my bottom lip. I tilted my head to try and deepen the kiss and was rewarded by his tounge tracing my lower lip begging for entrance. If it was possible for me to hate Charles more than I did at that moment, it was then. As, even the feel and taste of Carlisle could not totally block the images and feelings of Charles' fat slug of a tounge choking me. I had to pull away. We were both breathing heavily.
"I'm sorry. But as I said, I'm a little out of practice."
"Don't be sorry love, I thought we did rather well." He said chuckling softly. He proceeded to leave the sweetest kisses on my forehead, eyelids and cheeks. As we walked back to the car, I noticed our fingers were still entwined and so did Sue, who gave me a wink. And Alice, who when we passed her, began to hum 'Can't fight the moonlight." She was right.
AN: I know it's probably too long, but everytime I tried to split it, the Fan fiction site kept spitting it out.
Apologies to any Grace Kelly fans. She was beautiful and not bad in some films, but I thought she always looked a little cold. Don't hate me.
MASH for anyone who doesn't know, is U.S sitcom from the 70's about a medical unit in the Korean war. It's always being repeated and I had just seen the episode about the 500 boxes of tounge depressors before I wrote that part of the chapter. I don't own it and they did it better anyway.
Please show me some love. Hit the green button. There must be something in there you liked.