Hiyo everyone! I'm back! Finished this chaper at 4:15AM... dear God, why do I write in the dead of night? Or morning? I was anxious to get this chapter out cause I have loads of ideas for the next one. I hope you find this one satisfactory. Lemme know whatcha think!

Ciao

Chapter 8: Martha's Vineyard

Bella woke up with a pounding headache from crying her eyes out the night before. She managed to hold it in until she passed Charlie, informing him that she was tired and would tell him all about the party in the morning. Then the treacherous waterworks began... and no matter how hard she told her tear-ducks to give it a rest, they wouldn't listen. She hated feeling weak and out of control, especially around Edward, because he was always the one in control.

But it felt like for the first time yesterday, she actually surprised him with her new found strength with her actions. She surprised herself as well. Yet she was livid that he put her in that position in the first place.

I don't understand him... Why did he kiss me? It felt like something from out of a dream... too bizarre to have actually happened. What a strange and fickle man Edward is!

Bella took her shower still pondering over the events of last evening and decided that she would still visit Emmett today to see if he was alright, even if that meant running into Edward. She figured there was no use in avoiding him and acting childish by holding grudges. It happened and that's that... case closed. Today she would just go back to being simply Bella, the chauffeurs musical tree-climbing daughter.

Just then, Bella realized she hadn't climbed a tree in a long time. Strangely enough, she kind of missed it. Watching the people from down below, listening to random people talk about their lives without the knowledge that someone was just ten feet above them listening and watching the sky.

She recalled several years ago a conversation she overheard that she wasn't supposed to, and the bitter-sweet memory brought a tear to her eye.

"Lottie. Lottie! Come back here!"

Bella was daydreaming in her favorite spot, when she heard Peter's shouting in the distance and made her look down from her tree to observe.

"I can't do it, Peter! You deserve a child and I can't—you'd be better off without me holding you back!" Charlotte was borderline hysterical, sobbing uncontrollably. Bella wasn't sure if she should make her presence known or not...

"For Christ's sake, and people think I'm the crazy one?" Peter finally caught up to Charlotte under Bella's tree and pulled her by the wrist whipping her around into his chest.

Bella leaned down on the branch to get closer. She could faintly hear Charlotte muttering apologies and how much she loved Peter into his shoulder while he rocked her steadily back and forth, hushing her and kissing her face as she continued to bawl. The whole scene made Bella want to cry.

"Baby, did you think I would just pack up and leave after you told me that? That I would just throw away our love after two years of marriage? You must be out of your tree!" Peter chuckled and kissed her hair, then cupped her cheeks to make her look him in the eye.

"I love you, Lottie, no matter what. We'll get through this. I don't care how long it takes. But I can't do this on my own... I don't have the proper plumbing." Peter's joke caused Charlotte to cry out happy tears and laughter, then she kissed her husband passionately under Bella's tree.

Bella, on the other hand, had no idea what Peter was talking about when he mentioned "plumbing." Nevertheless, Bella gave them their privacy as she looked back up at the sky, hoping that someday she would find a someone who would love her as much as Peter loved Charlotte.

Perhaps when no one was looking... she would climb her tree once again, for old times sake.

Bella dressed in a thin white button down shirt, which was almost thin enough to see her nude lace brace underneath. Then slid on a pair of khaki shorts that showed off the length of her long legs beautifully. She slipped on her wedge sandals, and made her way to the kitchen where she heard Charlie tinkering at the stove.

"Morning!" Bella chirped brightly and gave her father a peck on the cheek. "The bacon is burning."

Charlie grunted a reply, then realization struck him and he gasped cursing to himself just before the fire alarm went off. Bella laughed and shook her head.

Nothing changes around here... she walked over to the refrigerator to take out some more bacon and the carton of eggs so she could start preparing breakfast again for the both of them.

"I'm sorry kid. I wanted to surprise you. Sue has been teaching me but I must have left them alone for too long," Charlie said while tossing the burnt bacon away then put the pan back on the stove. "You have no idea how much I missed having you around..."

"I think I do, actually," Bella smiled at him as Charlie patted her on the shoulder and went to sit in his chair to read the Times.

Bella planned to catch up with her father over breakfast before he had to drive Edward to the office in an hour or so, then she would see how Emmett was doing after his accident yesterday. That is, if he was coherent from all the pain killers...

I supposed I'll just go and find out. Then I can give Mrs. Cullen her birthday present... she smiled and thought to herself while taking Charlie's burnt toast out of the toaster oven.

Edward sighed as he looked at his breakfast.

The chef burnt the toast. Honestly, did he even go to culinary school? Who hired this quack? How difficult is it to get a piece of toast golden brown? It's not rocket science. The man is certainly getting the boot today!

Edward threw down his burnt toast on the plate causing the crumbs to scatter onto the table, and he huffed in frustration before cleaning off the counter with his napkin and stood up from the table.

Maria was already there, waiting for Edward to finish and he thanked her before walking upstairs to his office to try and plan a good excuse to take Isabella away from Emmett today. He walked passed Emmett's bedroom on the second floor, then peered inside. He was still conked out in the same position he'd be in since last night, flat on this stomach and drooling on the pillow.

Figures... Edward sighed to himself before closing the door gently and continuing up to the third floor so he could search on the computer for ideas that might interest Isabella.

First, I'll probably have to apologize for my behavior last night... Edward pondered while he sat down at his desk. I'm not entirely sure what possessed me, but I guess I'm not surprised. After all, I usually rely on my good instincts when it comes to making deals... and I was so sure that that kiss would have at least proved to her that I didn't see her as a child and found her highly attractive. She certainly did grow up since that last time I saw her... yet, she didn't seem attracted to me. That might prove to be a problem...

Edward was still sitting at his chair and staring out the window when he heard someone clear their throat by the door. He turned his head to find his mother watching him from the doorway.

"I'm sorry if I startled you. I just wanted to peek in and thank you for your thoughtful birthday present. It was highly extravagant, but very greatly appreciated," Esme said, smiling at her son who looked to have been lost in thought.

"Nothing is too good for the woman who raised me and put up with me all these years," Edward smiled his charming crooked grin that always made his mother and other ladies swoon... except Isabella Swan, and that thought brought a frown to his face.

"Something is troubling you," Esme stated and decided to walk inside the room to discover the cause of her son's distress. She saw on his face the same tormented expression she saw often on his father when he was in turmoil, and her maternal instincts started to kicked in.

"I'm just concerned about Emmett. Twenty-six stitches is a lot and I know how much he fears needles. The next couple of weeks are not going to be very fun for him," Edward said covering up his true concerns about Isabella and Hale Electronics.

"Hmm, you're very much like your father, Edward. And I can tell when he's fibbing too. But your interest in your brother's recovery is admirable and appreciated... please be sure to take good care of him while I'm gone. Your father won't allow us to postpone our trip, but he assures me that you and Maria will look after him."

"Rest assured, mother. It's all taken care of, and I'll make sure he has a speedy recovery." Edward stood up to move away from his mother's critical stare and walked over to the wet bar to grab a water bottle.

"Now what is really troubling you?" Esme asked tenderly as both she and Edward heard a gentle knock on the office door.

"Excuse me... I hope I'm not interrupting," Bella's asked politely as Esme and Edward both turned to face her.

"Not at all. Please come in," Edward said relieved by her impeccable timing so he wouldn't have to answer his mother's question, and he was hoping to speak with her about what her plans were so he could start forming plans of his own for them both.

Esme immediately saw the change in her son's posture and expression as her young and vibrant protegé entered the room. It was then clear to her what had been upsetting Edward since last night ever since Isabella had come back home... and the thoughts in her head made her smile.

She had already considered Bella as one of her extended family, and thought how wonderful it would be to have her join her family officially.

"I was told I would find you here, Mrs. Cullen—" Bella said while walking inside the room with an envelope.

"Esme, dear. You're so much like your father, always so proper and polite..." Esme embraced Bella while Bella's eyes found Edward staring at her, giving her a very peculiar undefinable look before turning away from them towards the windows.

"Forgive me, Esme. It's been a while. I just wanted to give you your gift since I missed seeing you last night." Bella held out her hand and handed Esme the manila envelope causing Esme to look surprised and Edward to turn around to see what she brought.

"Sweetie, you shouldn't have. Oh my goodness, how lovely. Edward, look!" Esme held up photographs of different cityscape and landscape shots of Vienna.

Edward curiously walked over to view the photographs and he gazed down at the works of art, created by the woman he just kissed last night.

"Incredible. You have a gift Ms. Swan," Edward complimented her, causing Isabella's skin to blush a brilliant red which Edward found to be very becoming.

"I see you've learned to use the camera very well. These shots are professional, Isabella. I'm very impressed. You are a woman of many gifts. Your eye for capturing emotions and movement are just remarkable. I love this one," Esme held up a close up of a man with tan skin, deep brown eyes and black hair who possessed an affectionate and kind expression which made Bella gasp in surprise.

"Oh, how did that get in there? I'm so sorry... that's from my private collection," Bella said trying to cover up her mistake but Esme shook her head in protest.

"It's beautiful. His expression is so captivating and very attractive I might add," she raised her eyebrows at Bella suggestively making Bella giggle and Edward roll his eyes at his mother's humor.

"Did you know him?" Esme asked giving the photo back to Bella and she held it carefully in her hands.

"Yes. He's a very dear dear friend..." Edward noticed Bella's face changed from embarrassment to calm and tender as she stared longingly at the photograph... like she wanted to caress it.

He turned away sharply unable to watch her face stare so compassionately and lovingly at an inanimate object when he only seemed to make her despise him just hours ago.

This is ridiculous! I can't be jealous of a mere picture... who is that man? How am I supposed to get her to look at me like she looks at him... like she looks at Emmett? What does it even matter! ARGH!

Edward was tired at the voice shouting in his head. He needed to get Isabella alone somehow so he could get to know her. So she could get to him. She obviously had this picture of him imbedded in her mind that he would have to erase or recreate... he needed to act fast before she left and got away.

"Would you mind giving me a copy? It's one of my favorites. That and this one of the opera house? Do you mind?" Esme asked her and Bella smiled and handed the photo back to her.

"You can keep it. I have them all on my hard drive so I can't print out some more later. I'll let Jake know you found him attractive. I'm sure he'll get a kick out of it," Bella laughed along with Esme while Edward was still brooding over by the window waiting for the women to stop gossiping about the attractive model in the picture so he could get to Bella.

"I was wondering if it would be alright to check up on Emmett. How is he?" Bella asked the one question Edward knew was bound to come up sooner than later.

"He's pretty out of it at the moment. You probably won't get much out of him since he's on heavy meds. But I'll be happy to take you to him," Edward said giving her his most compassionate friendly smile, making his mother proud and Bella startled.

"Um, okay. Thank you," Bella said waiting for Edward to follow her out of the office and wished Esme to have a good trip in case she didn't get to see her before she left.

"Thank you, dear, for the thoughtful gift. I'll treasure them always and I know just where I'll put them. I'll be around later before I head off, so I'll see you kids later," she kissed them both on the cheeks then headed off down the hall to the master suite.

"Lead the way, Ms. Swan," Edward gestured for her to lead the way down the stairs which Bella gave him a half smile and started walking.

"So formal today, Mr. Cullen. Did I slap some sense into you, or slap the humor out of you?"

Edward scoffed at her playful banter, then shrugged before walking along beside her, "I just thought you wished to be treated with respect, that's all, Ms. Swan."

"Well, as much as I appreciate the gesture, unfortunately the way you say it makes it sound sarcastic or condescending, somehow. So I would prefer it if you called me what you always called me, if it's all the same to you," Bella said covertly to Edward's shoulder, until he stopped on the step below her, turning back to look her in the eye and whispering quickly and directly to her face,

"That is not may intention, but I apologize if it has come across that way. I also apologize if I offended you last night or caused you pain. My purpose was to entertain you and surprisingly you captivated me with your beauty and honesty far more than I ever anticipated. I wish I could blame it on the champagne, but unfortunately I can only say that it was an error in judgment on my part. I promise, I will try not kiss you again unless you ask me to." He finished by slowly breathing out the rest of his air and deeply inhaling her sweet strawberry scented hair while staring longingly at her full lips.

"Thank you for your apology, Edward, and I'm sorry as well. Friends?" Bella leaned back and held out her hand to shake his and Edward broke away from the spell she was casting over his senses.

"Friends," he took her small cool hand and shook it gently, careful not to frighten her away as if she were an untamed forest animal afraid of human contact.

They both continued down the staircase until they reached the second floor landing and walked to the outside of Emmett's bedroom. Edward held his hand up to ask her to wait one minute to make sure that he was decent, and slowly opened the door to peek inside. Then he looked back at her and winked, asking her to follow him inside the bedroom.

Bella then saw Emmett in his face down resting position, facing away from the door and she made her way inside the bedroom while Edward stayed by the doorway to watch.

"Emmett?" Bella whispered. She hoped to wake him up and see if she could help him get some breakfast or ask if he's eaten, but there was no reply. She tried again a little louder, but still he was unconscious and snoring gently.

"He's been like that since last night," Edward whispered to Bella who shook her head in understanding and was ready to stand up and come back later. Until suddenly Edward leaned over the bed and called out into Emmett's ear, "Emmet, Bella's here!"

Emmett jostled and jerked awake to see a startled angry looking expression on Bella's face, but all he cared about was that she was here and holding his hand.

"Heeeeey," he said drunkenly with his eyes half open and drool still dribbling from the corner of his mouth.

"Hi there. How are you feeling?" Bella asked tenderly brushing the bangs away from Emmett's damp forehead, while Edward tried to hide his grimace by crossing his arms over his chest, and looking over to the bedside table filled with drugs.

"Veeery baaad. My aaaass huurts. I think they put a diaper on me ffor fffucks sake," Emmett said lifting his head trying to gesture to his injury. Edward held in his silent laughter while Bella smiled indulgently at the narcotized man lying in front of her.

"My God, you're pretty. Did I ever tell you dat?" Emmett said dropping his head back onto the bed and closed his head eyelids while snuggling closer to Bella, trapping her hand underneath his head.

"Do you need anything? Can I get you something?" Bella stroked his face with the other head, watching Emmett purr like a kitten, not even noticing Edward's breathing getting faster and heavier watching them interact.

He'd almost had enough of watching their chemistry and the way Bella's eyes seem to soften and sparkle every time Emmett made a sound. He knew Emmett's routine to get women just like no one else did, because he was the one to get the bills to pay for all of it.

He takes them out to expensive dinners and shows, sailing in the yacht, going to the beach, or one of their other many vacation homes in Connecticut, Esme's Island, Martha's Vineyard, or... wait. YES! That's perfect!

Edward smiled to himself at his brilliant plan to get Isabella away from Emmett, at least for a few days. Hopefully, enough time for Jasper to set up a meeting with Eleazar to get the merger on the way. He knew she wouldn't refuse, she was too kind and generous to turn down a favor. All he had to do was play his cards right, and they'll be set.

"Emmett?" Bella asked again while Emmett was close to dosing off and jolted awake once more before moaning out a reply.

"Yeeeah, could I have some ice cream?"

"Ice cream?" Bella looked up to Edward curiously and he shrugged his shoulders, "Sure, what flavor?"

"Doesn't mader, it'zfermyass..."

And then he was gone again while both Bella and Edward covered their mouths to hold in their laughter. Bella slowly pulled her hand loose from Emmett's grip and quietly crept out of Emmett room behind Edward only to trip on the rug right outside the door falling into Edward's arms.

"Sorry," she whispered trying to straighten up and find her feet.

"You were so graceful last night when you danced, you almost had me fooled that you grew out of your clumsiness, too," Edward chuckled while helping her up and holding onto her waist a bit longer than necessary.

"Yes, well I'm sure you of all people know that new haircuts and clothes does not a person make. Good day, Edward." Bella said loosely before turning to walk away making Edward wish to trail after her.

There she goes again, making references to knowing things about me when this is the most we've ever spoken in sixteen years. Dammit, she's doing it again! Why does she fascinate me so much?

"I liked your photography," Edward called out making Bella stop in her tracks and turn around.

"You did?" she asked curiously because it seemed to her that he could have cared less about the photos she gave to Esme. He face was completely blank all except for when she saw his face twitch after she looked up from Jake's photograph. She always found Edward Cullen difficult to read, but perhaps he was just used to always showing his poker face.

"Yes, they were all quite good. In fact, seeing the pictures of the buildings you took reminded me that I needed to find a photographer to take photos of our summer house we'd like to put on the market on Martha's Vineyard. You know, just shots of the house, the land, stuff like that. Would you be interested in helping me out?"

"You don't wish to have Alice hire a professional for you instead?" Bella asked modestly, thinking the Cullens could surely afford to hire a more experienced professional photographer instead.

"I think I'd rather the money go to a friend, instead. Besides, I planned to take the day off anyway, and I was hoping you could join me in exploring the island before we make the sale. I can have you back home by dinner. You don't have any other plans today, do you?"

"No, I don't," Bella lifted her eyebrow adorably, wondering why Edward was being so benevolent and generous after all the years of ignoring her. But she figured since she had just got back and needed to earn some kind of income, it would be best to take him up on his offer.

"I supposed it will be alright. As long as you're satisfied with my work, or else I wouldn't feel right charging you."

"Nonsense, I'll pay you by the hour for your time. That is if that's the only way I can get you to come with me." Edward was teasing of course, but Bella lifted her chin indignantly and bit back at him,

"Of course not. You will only pay me per shot, I will not accompany you otherwise," she huffed out in frustration, and watched him chuckle are her fire which he found to be very attractive.

"I was only teasing. I'll wait for you to get your camera by the Aston Martin in fifteen, then we'll head over to the launch pad. It will be faster if we take the chopper," Edward said brushing past her while giving her directions to meet him for his little kidnapping scheme.

"And there will be far less traffic," Bella winked before turning around and heading toward the garage to get her things.

Ah, cleaver girl. She knows I hate to sit in traffic I guess from Charlie.

"Too true. I'll see you in ten minutes, Ms. Swan," Edward said casually then realized he caught himself saying her formal address again but this time he saw her turn around smiling instead of scolding him.

"See, now that time, I believed you."

Thirty minutes later, Edward and Bella were strapping themselves into the Cullen's private Gulfstream G550 jet. The interior had a very modern sleek design with comfortable recliners facing each other with a table and a sofa that converts into a bed. This was the classiest plane Bella had ever set foot in, and she didn't want to miss a thing of it.

When she had explained to Charlie that she would be spending the day with Edward she wasn't entirely certain how he felt about it. She was an adult so he couldn't very well tell her not to go with him, but she got the impression that he didn't entirely disapprove of her spending time with Edward either, probably because that would mean less time doting on Emmett's incapacitated butt.

"Wow, this is incredible," Bella marveled while looking around at all the fancy decoration and buttons on the electronic seats.

The chairs have built-in massagers too? I might never want to leave!

"What? Oh, yes," Edward said while nodding his head distractedly, then going back to looking over the newly emailed proposals several other possible companies looking to merge with CCC.

They had taken off and Edward was still typing away aimlessly on his laptop while Bella sat looking around out the window, and inside the compartment, then back to Edward who was completely ignoring her while he fiddled with his work.

"Don't you ever stop?" Bella asked candidly before realizing she had spoken her thoughts out loud. On the other hand, her statement seemed to have worked because Edward looked up from behind his laptop and to find her scrutinizing eyes starting back at him.

"Not really. There's never enough hours in the day..." Edward finished with a cavalier smile before dropping the subject and got back to work. Only he couldn't concentrate, her comment had stuck a nerve, reminding him of his mother's constant argument for him to slow down and get out more, which perturbed him.

"It's just... you said this is your day off and you act like you're still in the office. I'm sure you have lots of little minions to do some work when you're not around so all I'm saying is take a load off. Look outside the window. Talk to me, or not—"

"No, you're right," he said before she got the chance to put herself down. "What would you like to talk about?" he shut his computer down and stored it into his satchel before placing it under his seat. Then he leaned back into his chair and folded his hands over his stomach.

"Well, why are you putting your summer home on the market? I thought your family was fond of Martha's Vineyard..."

"We are. I'm just tired of that particular house. Em goes there more frequently than the rest of us since he uses it bring his wo—um, guests. Anyhow, I don't fancy the place anymore because of that, so I'm looking to sell or rent it out, then I'll be looking for somewhere else. Something bigger with more amenities, so we won't need the old property anymore. That's where you come in."

Edward had not intended to mention all the woman Emmett had brought to the house before her up to now. He didn't wish to come across as insensitive. He wasn't used to putting a filter on when speaking about his brother's colorful social life. But he knew it was a sensitive topic when he saw the cringe on Bella's face after the mentioned Emmett's womanizing. Therefore, he immediately back tracked and tried to lighten the mood by trying to get some details about her life and put the smile back on her face.

"So... you graduated from Austria with honors, correct?" Edward got out before he took a deep breath to try and get more comfortable without trying to seem uncomfortable. Unfortunately, Bella didn't offer much help by only smiling then nodding her head mutely.

"I sometimes wish that I could have taken my time with school instead of graduating at such a young age..."

His statement took Bella back for a moment before she could gather her thoughts, "I thought... I could have sworn you wanted to graduate at nineteen so you could take over your father's company sooner."

"Well that was part of it. The other part was that I pushed myself to always wanting to be the best a everything. I guess you could sort of call me competitive—" Edward mentioned which made Bella scoff out,

"Sort of?"

"Alright, alright. I'm very competitive. I wanted to prove to my father... and myself, that I could succeed by making my own way instead of being my father's son, filling in his shoes. I was determined to be the best,"

"But at what cost? You are so driven and focused on your job that you're forgetting what's most important in life—"

"Trust me, Bella. I've heard all of this before, and I'll tell you what I've told everyone else. I'll have plenty of time for all of that after I'm through making my mark, just like my father. He retired young and so will I. Then I will hand the company down to my son or daughter when they're ready."

"What children exactly are you referring to? Your father had you at, what... twenty-two? By the time your heir will be ready to take on the company you might be well into your late fifties or early sixties. Do you really want to wait that long to start living your life?"

"Bella—" Edward sighed and put his right hand to his forehead because all of these facts were starting to give him a headache.

"I'm not saying go out and procreate with the first woman you see so you can start popping them and fulfill your twenty-year plan..."

"I'm done talking about this—"

"I'm just wondering how you expect it to happen when you won't let anyone get close enough to know you," Bella quipped causing Edward to bristle and act defensively.

"Bella! My plans are none of your concern! Would you kindly change the topic?"

They sat in strained silence while Edward tried to lower his blood pressure and Bella casually looked out the window with a smile hidden behind her eyes, "You know... this plane could fly straight through a flock of birds and crash at any time—"

"Dear God woman, you are relentless," Edward interrupted laughing humorlessly, yet found himself somewhat amused and admired her courage and persistence.

"Why do you never look out the window, Edward? It's so beautiful," Bella asked him while using her peripheral vision watching the layer of clouds pass below the plane, like a fluffy white blanket.

"Yes, it is," he said ignoring her first question while checking out the transparency of her white shirt laying on her chest. Bella instantly turned her head looking simultaneously flustered and offended, while Edward smirked looking away towards the inside of the plane. There was a slight sheen of sweat on Edward's brow that he casually wiped away, then it suddenly clicked. Instantly, Bella's face morphed from exasperated into sympathetic and understanding.

"You're acrophobic."

Edward snapped his head back to Bella looking miffed and adjusted himself uncomfortably in the seat, "You're very observant, too. You've discovered another flaw of mine."

"It's not a flaw," Bella said quietky shaking her head and leaning forward in her seat, feeling somewhat guilty for being inconsiderate, "I'm sorry. I wouldn't have—if I had known—"

"No one really knows except my parents. They took me to the top of the Empire State building when I was five and once I looked down I flipped out and they couldn't calm me down for hours. I'm fine behind glass... but ever since then—it's stupid..."

"No, it's not stupid, it's—" Bella stopped to try and hold in her smile but it was impossible to hide.

"Great, you're laughing at me now," Edward feigned being upset and Bella laughed to try and comfort his embarrassment.

"I'm not laughing at you. I just find it comforting to know that the great Edward Cullen is not perfect after all. It's enlightening and inspiring. I like that you're imperfect, it makes you more... human."

"So you're saying that I was inhuman before? I'm uncertain if I should take offense to that or not," Edward said entirely perplexed by this girls rationale. Who in God's name strives for imperfection?

"Not inhuman... just superior than all the rest of humanity who couldn't even hope to compare..."

"Well, a wise woman once said, 'No one can make you feel inferior without your consent,' so the fact that they saw themselves as inferior to me is not my fault," Edward said analytically with a mockingly sophisticated air, but Bella did not laugh. Instead, she looked at him in amazement.

"You read Eleanor Roosevelt?"

"Who doesn't? The woman was a genius and ahead of her time," Edward said smiling and leaning forward onto the counter with his hand inching even closer to Bella's and was surprised to find her mirroring his own pose placing her hand affectionately on top of his.

"I like to follow a lot of her philosophies and find them to be very inspiring. Actually, you're following one right now," Bella beamed back at him with a dazzling smile which caught Edward by surprised and confoundedly asked in reply,

"What?"

"Do one thing every day that scares you."

Bella gave Edward's hand a squeeze then leaned back into her chair, the spell was broken and Edward's mind cleared once again.

"And what did you do today that scared you?" Edward smiled knowing he was about to either stump her or make her blush, but instead she surprised him once again.

"Agree to spend the day alone with you."

Bella blushed and smiled quickly before excusing herself to use the powder room before captain said they were scheduled to arrive on Martha's Vineyard in ten minutes. Once Bella was out of sight, Edward leaned over and banged his forehead against the table several times.

She's. Driving. Me. Crazy! What the Hell does she mean? Is she afraid of me? She can't be. I know how she looks when she's afraid, she hasn't changed that much! I still see that small fragile little girl who lost her mother all those year ago... but she's buried down deep under all this confidence and sophistication. Perhaps she meant she's afraid to show me what she really thinks and feels about me...

"It's time to buckle in Mr. Cullen. We're going to be landing shortly," the flirtatious flight attendant whispered closely into Edward's ear.

"Thank you, Jane. Would you make sure Ms. Swan is alright, and safe please?"

"Of course, sir," Jane walked a way begrudgingly from Edward in search of Bella who, with Edward's luck, probably got sucked down the toilet with her tiny tight ass.

Jane informed Edward that Bella was out of the restroom and secure in the back of the plane, Edward nodded to her so she could buckled in while craning his neck to see where Bella was seated. He felt a strange pull inside his chest as the plane was coming into a landing, but was almost certain it wasn't because of the descending altitude.

His body for some reason felt drawn to the back of the plane, and the feeling perturbed him as he clenched his fists and gritted his teeth as if trying to keep his body from moving.

Once the plane landed and the captain gave the all clear, they both exited the plane was immediately picked up by a cab driver. Edward gave the instrunctions before they began heading toward the south east end of the island.

Bella had her camera ready around her neck and was staring constantly out the window of the cab watching the scenery in fascination. Eventually, Edward's staring at her facial expressions and bright smile caught her attention and she asked what he was looking at to which he shrugged his shoulders and smiled, finally looking away from her face.

Bella thought to herself that Edward's behavior since last night had been very peculiar. Why is he always smiling at me with that intense stare of his. It's like he's trying to see underneath my skin. The thought gave her the shivers.

"Are you cold?" Edward asked looking concerned at the goosebumps on her peach flesh.

"No, I'm fine. Thank you." They were silent the remainder of the drive.

When they arrived at the summer house, it didn't look like a "summer home" at all, Bella thought. It looked just like another mansion probably worth millions of dollars. But worth every penny because it was magnificent.

Still too large for Bella's tastes, with seven bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a little over 6700 square feet. The property rested right on the water surrounded by 1.7 acres of land, with it's own private beach and dock.

Bella couldn't understand how Edward could find something more grand or larger than this summer home. It was ginormous. But she thought not to question him, since it he seemed determined and resolute on the topic.

Bella started snapping her camera instantly the moment she exited the cab while Edward paid the driver extra to return for them in four hours.

"It really won't take that long to snap the house, Edward. I could be done in—"

"I figured since we're here, I might as well give you a little tour of the island. I have a car in the garage and there's bikes too if you wanted to go for a ride."

Bella was taken back. She figured that once she had finished shooting the house that Edward would just arrange for her to fly back home by herself so he could enjoy peace and quiet on his day off. Now she knew he was serious about having her accompany him on his day off and she didn't know what to say.

"What about Emmett?" Probably anything but that...

Suddenly Edward's expression changed from relaxed to tense the minute his brother's name was mentioned. But he covered it up just as quickly with a smile that didn't reach his eyes as he walked the rest of the way to Bella.

"He'll be out cold probably for the next couple of days. He won't be able to stay awake long enough to notice we're gone from all the heavy meds he's on. But we can call him later if you like from inside to check on him. I was going to call anyhow," Edward finished speaking when they reached the top of the stairs and looked back to see if this was acceptable to Bella.

It troubled him and pleased him to know that she cared so much for his brother's well being. Pleasing to know that she is considerate and kind even though Em doesn't deserve it sometimes. Troubling because he realized her thoughts never wandered too far away from Emmett no matter where she is or who she's with.

Edward had never been much of a jealous or possessive man when it came to women... but now it seemed the more Bella mentioned Emmett's name, the more irrational and feral his emotions seem to become.

Edward opened the front door and walked Bella through each and every room inside the house. While he watched Bella work and angle the camera to get various shots of the different staged rooms, his mind started going a mile a minute analyzing the situation that he found himself in, trying to decipher what was going on inside his chest.

Women in general flocked to Emmett because he knew how to flatter and manipulate them to follow his hearts desires... which usually involved a one night stand. Edward was also never short on female admires or choice of companionship since he too was one of the most attractive, intelligent, and powerful eligible bachelors in the state of New York. The only difference between the two brothers was Edward had considerably fewer prospects and treated each one respectfully and had seen each one more than once.

Bella bent over to get a different angle of the ocean-scape just outside the window and Edward couldn't help marveling the soft warm skin displayed between her shirt and shorts covering her perfectly shaped bottom.

He was entirely surprised to hear his brother's confession last night about admitting his attraction to Isabella. Mainly because she seemed to be the exact opposite of Emmett normal taste in women. Emmett needed someone like Rosalie to come along and whip him into shape and make him become a grown up.

Edward and Emmett had never fought over one woman's attention before because they had different entirely different tastes in women... until now.

The more Edward checked Bella out inside the house, the more he understood that he was indeed jealous that Bella preferred his brother over him and he was now given a new determination to change that before they left Martha's Vineyard.

This was war!

Edward knew then if he didn't get a grip he might blow a gasket on his own made-up vacation. Which wasn't unheard off, but not really advisable in order to win Isabella's affections.

"All done!" Bella said lifting the camera from around her neck and handing it to Edward who looked at his curiously, not knowing what to do with it.

"Did you wish to see the pictures so you can tell me if you like them, or wish to keep them?" she asked talking to him as if that were the obvious reason for her actions, and Edward sheepishly took the camera from her hand, grazing his fingers against hers, then smiled as he looked through the photos one by one.

"These are excellent, Bella, and you took more than enough for the realtor to choose from. I think we're good for—" he stopped when he noticed several photographs of himself outside the house and inside. Probably taken during the few times he looked away from staring at her. He looked up from the camera to see Bella's timid and nervous face and she had one hand across her stomach while she chewed on one finger nail.

The stance reminded him of the little girl who he used to know that was always desperate for approval and shy when in his presence. The memory made him smile and he looked down once more at the expression on his face that Bella captured with her mad photography skills.

"You photograph very well."

"Thanks... my mother will probably hound for copies of these. She's always trying to get me to pose for pictures."

"You should. The camera loves you," she laughed nervously and Edward scoffed and rolled his eyes looking back at the rest of pictures, "Do you remember what you were thinking of when you were standing by the window in the dinning room?"

Edward knew exactly what was on his mind at that moment, but since he didn't wish to reveal it to Bella that he was jealous and rather possessive of her, he chose to lie.

"Not really," he shrugged his shoulders and handed the camera back to her.

"Pity. Your face looked so sad, I was wondering what might have caused it," she said while turning her camera off and placing it back into her camera bag.

"What difference does it make, the moment is past. I feel perfect now," Edward put his hands in his pockets and rolled back and forth on this heels, thinking of activities they could do until the cab returns.

"It makes a difference to me..." Bella said quietly walking past Edward, heading toward the front door.

"Why?" Edward followed her aimlessly, unable to help himself from wanting to be closer to her.

"Because I care. And it looks to me like the weight of the world is on your shoulders; you think too much and work too hard. In that picture you looked so sad and worn out, Edward, and I get the feeling you're not happy," Bella turned around to face him directly, watching Edward's face go from insulted, to uncertain, to touched, back to offended.

"What makes you say these veracious assumptions about me, Isabella Marie Swan? You've never taken an interest my life until now... why the sudden change? You think because you've lived on my property the majority of your life that you know me? The real me that nobody else knows?"

"Oh, I know more than you think, and it's not so sudden at all, Edward Anthony Mason Cullen. Up to a year ago, the Cullens were my life, and I know things about you I doubt your own mother even knows. It was always you who never took an interest in me. Sure you said 'hi' and were indulgent towards me when I was a child, but you never took the time to get to know me or speak to me except for a handful of times in sixteen years. You never treated me as an adult or like an equal. I was always 'Isabella, the chauffeur's daughter,' or 'Isabella, the employee,' so don't go off on me saying it's my fault we were never friends or spoke until last night. And then after years of ignoring me, you had the audacity last night to kiss me!"

"I told you it was an error in judgment! I got carried away!"

"Edward... tell me truthfully. Why did you kiss me?"

He paused while glaring back at her beautiful flushed face and lost the fire suddenly that was inside his stomach. "Forget about it... let's go get some lunch."

Edward tried to move away to brush it off. She was starting to get under his skin and he didn't appreciate the way she made it seem as though he never noticed her for sixteen years because that wasn't true. Sure last night was the longest conversation they had ever had, but what did she expect? She was a child for the majority of their acquaintance and he had to keep things professional with the staff.

Then it occurred to him what she was trying to point out all along... he did treat her differently up until just recently... so if he were in her position, his behavior towards her and his sudden attraction must have come off as a shock. Emmett was closer to her age than he was... so he must have always treated her more as an equal if nothing else.

Shit, this was getting to be more complicated than he ever anticipated. No woman had ever given him this much trouble before... but that's just it, isn't it. Isabella Swan was a woman and he was redefining their relationship... or at least trying to.

"I'm not going anywhere with you until you answer my question," Bella said defiantly crossing her arms over her body and jetting her bottom lip out adorably waiting for his reply.

He loved her fire and spirit. She was most beautiful when she was telling him off or expressing herself about something she was passionate about, "You're not going to let this go, huh?"

Edward smiled when she raised her eyebrows at him, giving him her non-verbal reply.

Well, here goes nothing... Edward thought while slowly taking several steps toward her and looked down into her deep chocolate brown eyes.

"I kissed you because I wanted to show you how much your words affected me last night. I wanted to show you what I truly thought after walking into the solarium and watching your dazzling figure sway in the moonlight. I wanted you to know how much I enjoyed dancing and laughing with you... and I wanted to show you that you were the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen in all my years, Bella Swan. I kissed you... because you left me speechless, and then you were about to leave me and... I didn't know what else to say."

When Edward finished speaking his mouth was just millimeters away from brushing against hers. She could feel his body heat radiating off his skin, and for the first time in her life, Bella thought that she wanted to be kissed by Edward Cullen. But instead, Edward pulled away slowly from her face and grabbed her right hand and kissed the back of her hand instead.

She could feel his soft lips and his warm breath caress her skin and she felt as though her body was a live wire. Only her facial expression gave nothing away and concealed her wild thoughts all inside. The only give-away that Edward's words had effected her was her breathing and rapidly beating heart pounding against her rib cage.

Edward had never once used his full charm on her before and she realized that she was unprepared for his declaration, and the thought of Edward being so affected and attracted to Bella, left her weak in the knees.

But quickly after Edward pulled his mouth away from Bella's hand, she slid it out from his grasp and started walking toward the front door ahead of him, so she could get some fresh air and put some distance between them.

Edward once again felt his heart skip a beat at the thought of her walking away from him again. He was worried that his confession might have come across too strong, and he feared she might flee in order to get as far away from him as possible and never wish to speak to him again.

He was frozen as he watched her walk out the door, hoping and praying that he didn't just scare her off and blow his chance at... with... he didn't even know anymore. Why was he here again?

"Edward, you coming? I'm starving!"

Edward snapped out of his thoughts when he heard Bella's voice shouting out for him outside by the garage. She was waiting for him. She wasn't running away from him which meant he was still in the game and hadn't lost her. Not yet... at least.

He cleared his throat and called out that he was just locking up, then made his way outside where he saw her casually smiling and leaning against his Volvo C70. She looked like a model standing next to his favorite car in the whole world, right after his Aston Martin, of course. He looked up to the sky and realized there were storm clouds off in the distance so it might not be such a good idea to drive with the top down today, but perhaps next time.

Next time... what if there isn't a next time after today? The thought made him stop by the hood of the car after he unlocked it and helped open the door for Bella to get inside. When he got behind the wheel he turned and saw Bella staring at him in concern.

"There's that face again... I know we're just learning how to be friends, but if you need to get something off your chest, I know how to keep a secret," Bella said sincerely putting a cool hand on Edwards forearm.

But he could only concentrate at that moment on one word she just said, "friend," and wondered why after hearing her call him that, it gave him burning sensation inside his gut. But instead of telling Bella all about his gastrointestinal problems, he chose something a little safer.

"I'm sure you can. How else would you know things that my mother probably doesn't even know about me to this very day if you haven't tattle-tailed on me. I am a little curious though to know what these facts might be and how you found them out?" Edward asked with a charming and playful grin on his face while he started the car to head towards town for lunch.

"Oh, I won't be giving that information out willingly anytime soon. I can tell you how I discovered it. See, I might be able to keep secrets, but other people... not so much."

"What do you mean? Are people spying on me?" Edward asked suddenly feeling a little self-conscious, and a lot interested in what Bella could possibly know about him that nobody else does. It's creepy to think that people have been watching him, and it he ever finds out who they would get the boot!

"Who?" Edward pushed again for more information since Bella seemed to be enjoying herself way too much for his comfort. "I will get it out of you somehow, Swan. Just you wait."

"I'm a hard vault to crack, Edward... but I will give you secret now if you promise not to ask how I received this information.

"I can't promise that, but tell me one and I will stop harassing you about it for now... but we will be discussing this later, Isabella."

Bella rather liked the affirmative powerful side of Edward... she found it rather attractive when a man was strong and knew how to use authority, as long as he didn't abuse that privilege.

"You like going commando," Bella said behind her hand bashfully covering her face, trying to hide her prominent blush crawling from her cheeks down to her chest.

"What!" Edward laughed nervously wondering, "How in God's name do you know that!"

Had she seen him changing at some point, or several times to warrant knowing that he didn't like to wear underwear. He wasn't sure why he didn't feel embarrassed or offended. He actually felt a little cocky with her knowing this fact... in more ways than one.

Edward realized the only disadvantage of going commando was now becoming quite obvious, and he needed to distract her attention elsewhere so she wouldn't look down at the growing problem in his jeans.

"I think that answer would be quite obvious, Edward," Bella said trying to get her silent laughter under control.

Edward instinctively looked down at his jeans, then realized he just gave his problem away, so he hoped that Bella missed seeing his slip up. Then it occurred to Edward what Bella was referring to, "Landry," he moaned as he hit the back of his head against the neck rest.

"Bingo!" Bella called out raising her arms over her head victoriously causing Edward to chuckle and shake his head while Bella continued to laugh. She rolled down the window to feel the humid breeze and watch the clouds pass overhead.

"It looks like it going to rain," she observed putting her hand out to feel the air. "Maybe we should go back home," Bella looked back to Edward who pouted his bottom lip and shook his head.

"It will be fine. We'll leave right after lunch," Edward pulled up in front of a seafood joint right when he got a phone call from his jet pilot.

"Hello Alec, is everything alright?"

"Actually, no sir. We've discovered a leak in the jet and we need to get it repaired before take off, so the plane will be grounded until further notice. Shall I arrange other transportation for you?"

"No, that's perfectly alright. How long do you think it will take to fix?"

"We're getting the mechanic in as soon as possible so it should hopefully be ready by tomorrow or by latest the following day," Alec informed him and Edward tried to keep his face nonchalant while on the inside he was having a fiesta!

A perfect excuse to kidnap Bella for an extra one or two nights alone which will hopefully buy Jasper some more time to finish the deal.

"Alright. Please call me back as soon as the repairs are complete. Thank you, Alec."

Bella had been semi-eavesdropping while Edward had been talking on the phone with the pilot and could make out that there was a leak in the plane that needed fixing, which meant their departure would be delayed.

"Should I call Charlie and let him know that our flight has been delayed?" Bella asked Edward who was already sending a text message to his parents informing them of the situation because that would mean their trip to Italy would be delayed by a new few days too.

"I think that would be wise. I'm sorry for the inconvenience," Edward looked at her sincerely and put his hand on top of her warm thigh hoping she wouldn't reject his touch. When she saw her smile, his body relaxed.

"It's not inconvenient... don't worry about it. I suppose there could be worse places and company to be stranded with for a few days, right?" Bella joked and nudged Edward in his side with her elbow and winked at him, to which Edward smiled back and replied as they got out of the car and started walking toward the restaurant,

"Right... much worse!"

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