You didn't have me at hello
a/n don't own it. Ba hum bug
Chapter 14 – And so , what is this?
Bella POV
My first week went really fast, thank god. After Lauren's outburst, Alice, Rosalie and Esme were over my office for lunch every day. I guess they thought I was really upset about what happened. I really didn't care. Yes, I have to be honest that I was very hurt that she thought I caused her breakup with Edward. After thinking about it, she dug the grave herself and jumped in on her own.
At this point in my life, I really didn't care what Edward thought of me. He was an immature and self-centered boy. He wasn't even a man, he was just a boy and women were his little toys which he would play with and throw away when it was broken. Surveying the situation, I feel awful for Carlisle and Esme because they are both great and caring parents and I know they didn't bring their boys up this way. Look at Emmett and Jasper. They have become two admirable and loving sons, husbands, friends and human beings. I see their passion at work and their desire for the better good. I admire their persistence for the cause. I admire their dedication to their wives, family and friends.
Now what I don't get is the mystery flowers I have been getting. I don't know who they are from, but they are spending a fortune. I don't really need that much flowers anyway. Jessica was really nice in helping me out with getting my office the way I liked it, so I gave her two of the arrangements. Angela has demonstrated to me that she was great team member and we have become fast friends. I gave her the other two arrangements. She took them home since flowers weren't allowed in the lab. I kept George's flowers - I treasured them the most, because though I didn't reciprocate his desires, he continued to be a true friend.
"Ring, ring." It's almost midnight, who could be calling.
"Hello?"
Screams – "HELLO BELLA!!!!"
Is this who I think it is? "Angie? Brad?"
"And don't forget George?"
"Ah the three musketeers! How are you?"
Angie struggled to take over the phone "Get off of me you both! Sorry about that Bella! We miss you!"
"I miss you too Angie, you don't know how much!"
"Are you ok?"
"Yeah, just lonely."
"Well you won't be. How would you feel if we come to visit?"
"Sure, how long?"
"For about 4 to 5 months."
"Really? All of you?"
"Yup. We are going to film a movie out here. All three of us plus John Malkcovich, Robert Downey Jr, Kristen Stewart, Liv Tyler and a few more."
"Oh that is so cool. Hey maybe I can see if Carlisle has an extra apartment available in his building. This way you all have major privacy."
"Alright. We will be there next weekend so don't make any plans. I miss you and I miss our talks."
"I miss you to Angie. See you next week. Oh can you put George on?"
"By hon…George…"
"Yes, Bells.."
"Thanks for the flowers."
"I don't know what you are talking about."
"Yeah right. So how many this week?"
"Zero. Zilch. Nada."
"Bull, but I will keep you in check so say no more. See you next week."
"By Bella. You take care."
Thank God it's Saturday morning. I needed to sleep a little. It's 10am. Let me see if I can do some more work. I need to get some thing done so I can have a work free weekend next week. I took a quick shower, got into my comfort jeans, sweater and pulled my hair in a ponytail and left. I got two cups of coffee on the way and a muffin. This way, I won't be tempted to leave early for lunch and abandon my work.
As I walked in, I found our floor to be very peaceful and tranquil – completely different than it is on Monday through Friday. Why is Carlisle's office light on? "Carlisle?"
"Bella? What a surprise? Wait a minute – didn't I give you strict orders not to over work."
I had to laugh. "Yes, but Angie, Brad and George will be here next weekend and wanted to get ahead start so I will have my next weekend completely free."
"They are visiting – that's great! Maybe we can all meet for dinner."
"That would be good. We can just have it at my place. It is kind a difficult for them to go out."
"Oh no problem, but this time, we host."
I smiled because I don't think I am going to win this argument. "We will see. Carlisle, I have a favor to ask you? Do you have two available apartments in the building?"
"Yes, we do – we actually have a couple. Why?"
"Well, they are actually coming to Seattle to film a movie. Angie and Brad were coming with the kids and you know how the paparazzi are.."
"Don't say anymore. I will call Esme to get the apartments furnished. Angie and Brad have 3 kids right?"
I smiled because he was one of the very few who didn't care of celebrity gossip. "They actually have 6 kids."
"Wow, ok. Listen to make life easier, let's call them now."
We did and Angie and Brad were very grateful for what Carlisle and Esme were about to do. This was the best way the kids could be shielded from the press and Angie and Brad would be able to get private time after filming. As we all talked, George and I discussed and decided that he would share my apartment during the filming. I had an extra bedroom and if my parents would visit, I would make the office into another bedroom. Carlisle really loved that idea, but I needed to figure out why. Maybe he is taking the father figure seriously and doesn't like the idea of me being alone.
I was really excited about what was happening. I would be able to hang out with Angie. We have a fantastic friendship and we could talk about anything and everything. She was the closest thing I had to an older sister. She understood my desires for true love, even though she didn't believe it existed until she met Brad. When she met him, she called me and yelled that she had found her true love. From then on, she had always understood my feelings and especially my desire to wait.
We actually met at my home. She was working on the second Lara Croft. Dad, Mum and Angie's mum were close friends and they offered our home to Angie. I was going to Oxford and very dedicated to my studies. To say the least, I was a complete nerd. I was in our library when she wandered in and we spoke. I didn't care the she was a super star. I was more impressed that she was so well versed. She loved reading and she was extremely smart. During her time with us, she helped me come out of my shell, so to speak. She helped me find my style, she help me gain confidence and to actually feel sexy. Mum and dad helped me believe in myself and in my intelligence. They gave me self worth but Angie helped me love myself with all my faults. She helped me be who I am today.
Carlisle POV
Bella is a very dedicated and supportive woman. First, she is really dedicated to her job. I believe she considers her job to be her mission in life. As well, she is so dedicated to her friends that she sacrifices her personal time to be with them.
When Bella came to me with her request, I was overjoyed. It felt like she actually trusts me now and I hope she will come to me if she can't talk to anyone else. I am very happy to help out Brad and Angie. They are good and caring people. I actually give them a lot of credit to have the courage to accept and love so many children.
Bella is extremely excited in having her friends back too. She seems like she wanted to jump like a little kid waiting to go into the candy store. During the farewell dinner, I could tell that Angie and Bella have a very special bond. I pray she will have that same bond with Esme, Alice and Rosalie.
When George and Bella decided that he would be rooming with Bella, I was relieved. Once he is here, I am going to pull him aside and tell him what Edward was doing. I know he could "protect" Bella from Edward. Edward wasn't listening to us and now that Lauren is out of the picture, I have a feeling Edward is going to get worse.
Thursday, Feb 26th
Esme POV
I missed having my family over last week. Carlisle decided to cancel because of what had physically happened to Edward and the breakup. I hard heard about the office event. I knew the break up was for the best – but I can imagine that the fight was difficult for Bella. When I asked Alice and Jasper how Bella was doing, they told me that she was doing great at work. Alice, Rose and Bella have been going to their kickboxing class three times a week and the few times I had to leave early, I have caught her coming back from her run. I guess all that working out helps her out. Carlisle couldn't be any happier with Bella. There is one thing that he is concerned is that she doesn't sleep much. He has told me that he has received a few emails at 3 or 4 in the morning.
Today though, I am making a big dinner. My family is coming home and I want to make everything special. Bella is bringing dessert and I am hoping it was that chocolate cake. Edward is coming as well. I hope he will behave. Carlisle and I spoke about what was going on and I was going to ask him to go to lunch this week to discuss "projects". Personally, I would love to have Bella as my daughter in law but Edward would have to really prove that he deserves her.
"Mom, we're here."
"Hi Rose, hello my dear bear"
I love my Emmett, but his hugs can kill, "Hi Mom! How was your day?"
"Fantastic! I finished the apartments and Angie and Brad will be able to move in right away."
Rose smiled "Mom, you are the best! I know Bella has been worried especially because the kids were coming."
"Where's Alice and Jasper? I thought they were coming with you."
Emmett sighed "Yeah, but they got caught by James - something about the budget."
"Oh, by the way, he hasn't been disturbing Bella has he? When I saw Bella this week, I found her a little upset after James left her office."
Emmett "I don't think so but I didn't know about that. Do you now what happened?"
"No hon, she didn't tell me…"
"Mom we're here!"
"My pixie and strong silent one! How are you?"
Jasper positive as always "Great mom! Can't wait to eat!"
Alice as chipper "Mm, something smells good!"
"Yes, it pot roast. What time is Bella coming over?"
Alice spoke, "She said she was going to be 10 minutes late and to start without her."
"We will not. Carlisle is on his way too…"
"Esme!"
"In the kitchen, Carlisle."
As always he sweeps me off my feet, "My darling, how I missed you!"
"As I you!" As always, we kiss and slips his tongue.
Emmett sees this. "Ew, mom! Dad! Can you take that in the bedroom please!"
Rose hit him really hard. Sometimes the boy doesn't learn.
"Leave them alone Emmett."
Carlisle was looking "Where's Bella? Edward?" He sounded worried.
"Alice just told me Bella was going to be 10 minutes late. I believe Edward …"
"Mom, I'm here!"
"He's here.."
As always, my son picks me up, "Hi Mom, how are you?"
"Great!"
Edward started to greet the family like nothing has ever happened. Finally a little peace. "When's dinner? I am starving!"
"Well, Bella is running a little late, but we can start with the appetizer.."
Ding dong…
"That must be Bella. Alice, go get the door…"
I was starting to get the bottles of wine opened, when we here a shriek.
Carlisle runs out to the door. "Alice, please don't do that."
"But dad, it's George!!"
We all went out to see the commotion. "It's ok, Dr. Cullen. I am used to that type of reaction."
I was so happy to see him "George, it is so nice to see you. We weren't expecting you until tomorrow."
He gave me kiss, always the charmer, "I am so sorry Mrs. Cullen to barge in, but I called Bella that I came in early and she told me to meet her here."
"Nonsense, George. Please call me Esme – Mrs. Cullen makes me too old.."
Then Carlisle interrupted "And please call me Carlisle. You remember everyone."
George and my kids started to chat away as I saw Edward go back to the kitchen. I followed him. He took out the Patron out of the cabinet. "Honey what's wrong?"
"Why is he here? He isn't family."
"Edward, he is here and Bella is family. I am just happy that Bella didn't cancel, because she could have."
He took a shot and looked like he was defeated.
"Edward, what's wrong? You can talk to me honey."
"Mom,…"
Ding Dong…
"That must be Bella, but Edward, really, can we talk? Tomorrow would be nice to have one of our long lunches?"
He smiled like he used to when he was just a little boy, "Sure mom. That would be great."
I heard the commotion out there. Bella was just screaming.
"Emmett Cullen – you are killing me. Let me go."
He had her in his famous bear hugs. "Aww, come on Bella-boo – I have missed you so much."
He finally let her go, "I have missed you too." She gave him a kiss on the cheek. Hey, where's George?
She came over to Alice, Rose, Jasper for a big hug as Carlisle was holding something. Then she gave Carlisle a kiss on his cheek.
Then Edward with his wooing smile – "Hello Bella". The smile didn't work.
She didn't smile but didn't frown. "Hello Edward."
She came over to me and gave me a hug – "I brought your favorite Esme."
"You didn't."
"Yes, Leah did me the favor. She was very happy in doing this for you."
"Please give her my many thanks."
I tried not to smile because I saw George coming behind her. "Here hon, let me take the cake." He was about to pick her up when she said "Hi George!"
We all looked shocked. George replied with his famous smirk "How did you know?"
I knew she was flirting "Because only you would put on so much Eternity for Men, knowing very well that it's something that drives me INSANE."
"Oh Bella, you know you missed it."
"I did. Now where is my love?"
I noticed that Edward's eyes were getting greener. Is he actually jealous? As George took her in his arms, his face was getting redder…he is jealous. Wow, I never thought I would live to see my son, the great Edward Cullen, jealous.
Edward POV
Why did he have to show up? I was so excited to have Bella over for dinner tonight. Even though my family would be there, I had wanted to put out the charm and woo her. But now idiot boy is here and now I can't woo here. What the hell?
I saw Bella every day this week and every day she captured my attention. First, she was so sexy. I mean, she exuded sex appeal. Though she dressed in suits and dresses, she wore those sexy heels playing up that sexy walk. Those suits and dresses were short and emphasized every single sexy curve. I couldn't wait to see her again today. She wore this white knit dress that hugged every single curve and she had those boot that made her legs call out sex.
I became aware that Bella is a very confident woman. She isn't cocky like Lauren, but she knew her stuff. She also had the sexiest voice, especially on the phone. I could listen to that voice all day. This week, we actually had to work together more because I oversee her work and the lab. Within the week, she had created camaraderie within her team and they all worked well. There were times that issues were presented and she worked them out with the team. Her problem solving skills were first-rate.
Now she comes to my parent's home, looking as hot as she was and hugs George and not me. She hugged Emmet and Jasper and not me. I need another shot – this is going to be a long night.
Alice started to talk "So George, will you be taking are of our Bella?"
Taking care of Bella. What the hell does she mean?
"Sure, but I don't think Bella is going to let me."
Good girl, Bella hit him. "Down boy. You must behave or I will have Angie on your ass."
Shit, I was afraid of Rosie, but Angie – she could do major damage to a man.
"You would actually do that to me, your friend – confidante?" Oh he is pouting – make note, that works.
"Stop your pouting! I told you before, that might work on Shiloh and Z, but that doesn't work on me."
Everyone was laughing. Hey I thought that was a good pout – actually it was good enough to compete against Alice. Make mental note – pouting doesn't work.
I had to chime in, "Alice, what did you mean by 'taking care of Bella'?"
Carlisle gave me that self-righteous look – "Oh you didn't know, George is Bella's roommate while he is filming a movie here." Damn it. How am I going to do this?
George then had to chime in "Bella, really, if I am going to cramp up your style, I can find another place."
Bella laughed "My style? Honey, I don't have any plans of you cramping up my style. Now you on the other hand will have two rules and two rules only. One rule I know you won't have a problem but the other, I still don't know."
Emmett laughed "I can just imagine the rules."
Bella snapped at Emmett then winked at him. She is a hoot "First rule Mr. Clooney is that you must be neat."
George smiled and crossed his arms. "That's easy. What's the second?"
Bella smiled – "No women are to be brought over for any rendezvous. If you need to get some or get your groove up or sex it up, go to a hotel, motel, boat, whatever, but I do not want to smell sex in my home unless it comes from my bedroom. With that said, get your mind out of the gutter because I am not giving it up."
Emmett laughed again – "George, she has you beat!"
George laughed, "Yes she does Emmett, but I have to love her for it. Alright Bella, you have me and I will obey your every command as I have always. Only one request."
I saw Bella was a little cautious, "What?"
"We all going out dancing every Friday."
Alice and Rosalie jumped "Please Bella."
"Fine, but see here Mr. Clooney, if you think you are going to get me drunk and in bed, you have another thing coming."
Damn, this girl is tough. I love her being this tough. Wait a minute, did I just say love?