Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight or any of the the songs/lyrics/poems used throughout this story. They all belong to their respective writers/artists/owners. No copyright infringement is intended.
I can't say enough how much your reviews/tweets and PMs make me smile! I apologize for not being better at replying to your reviews- I will do my best to be better with that in the future! Please know that I read every single one of them though!
Big thanks to beta Lynette (TheUnderStudy) go check out her stories and multiple one shots on her profile! Her link is on my profile! Hugs to Gail (Kewlwhip76) for prereading and sharing her insights and suggestions for the future! *HUGS*
Sending out extra hugs to the real life PJ (Upsidedowntwist) for introducing the two of us! And congrats on his twit-gagement to my 'twitter twin' Lee (aka Leigh or: Pixiebella88) ;-) Love you both! (And SQUEE I get to be a Groomslady!) Hehe! Go check their shit out too! It's fuck hot!
Enough crazy stuff though... let us move on... we get to see Victoria again! It's country music night at The Switch with Breaking Dawn! Oh- and I think there's something in there that you've all been dying to see!
Chapter 15
BPOV
I sigh, washing the shampoo out of my hair.
"Everything okay, precious?" Edward asks from the other side of the shower curtain.
"Yeah, I'm fine. Just sad that the weekend is over, it's been amazing," I reply. It's true. It really was a wonderful weekend. We literally spent the entire time naked or near naked. It was bliss. I didn't want it to end.
Of course all of that bliss sort of rendered logical thinking null and void. I'm simply not able to think straight with a naked Edward around. All plans of telling him about Victoria went out the window as soon as those boxers dropped. Those thoughts simply vanished, just like our clothing.
Whoops.
Yeah, big whoops.
Now it's Monday again. Reality reared its ugly head as soon as the alarm went off. I was supposed to tell him by today. I still have a few hours left, but I have no idea what to do or how to say it.
Do I just blurt it out? Do I ease him into it? Maybe I can 'tell a story' and hope he connects the dots? Should I seduce him as Victoria again and then yell SURPRISE! It's really me! I just don't know.
No. None of those are right. I'm pretty sure I'll just have to wait for the right moment. When the time presents itself, I'll take a deep breath and just tell him, being totally honest. But now isn't the time.
I turn the water off and step out of the shower. Edward is waiting, holding open a fluffy towel that's still warm from the dryer.
"Yeah, I'm not ready to go back to real life yet either," he admits, kissing me on the shoulder. "But, at least we'll be together at work!"
He's cheerful. I smile back, knowing that the emotion of the moment doesn't reach my eyes.
"None of that now," he scolds, pulling me into a hug. "It'll be fine. You can even come back tonight if you want."
"I'd like that very much, Edward." I kiss his cheek and move from his embrace.
We dress and get ready for work side by side. It feels normal and familiar; it's something I can see myself getting used to. Before long, we're ready and heading to the office.
As soon as we walked into the outer office area my phone starts ringing. Rushing over I answer it, "Good Morning, Edward's Cullen's office," I say as cheerfully as possible.
It was Marcus on the other line. "Bella, I've been trying to get hold of Edward since yesterday! I need to talk to him right away about a very serious matter."
"Yes Sir, I'll put you through to him straight away," I tell Marcus while frantically signaling Edward to get into his office. I patch the call through as soon as he's over the threshold and closing the door. Three hours later he still hasn't emerged and the little orange light indicating that he's on the phone has yet to extinguish.
I know I shouldn't disturb him, but I can't stop myself from peeking into Edward's office after another half an hour passes by. Peering around the door, I catch a glimpse of the back of his head; his hair is more chaotic than normal. I can tell he's been running his hands through it more than usual. I can see the tension in his shoulders and back.
"NO, Marcus! That is not acceptable!" he yells into the receiver. "They can't do that!"
I scoot back out of the office, not wanting to interrupt him. It doesn't seem as if he'll be done soon. Glancing at the clock, I see it's lunchtime. I grab my purse and slip away from the office and head down to a pub a few blocks over. Edward says they have the best fish and chips in town. He says they're authentic because they serve them in newspaper just like they do in London. I grab two orders and stop at a convenience store on the way back to the office, picking up a six pack of beer, hoping Edward will be off the phone when I get back and will have time to relax for a bit.
I get back in a hurry and poke my head into Edward's office again. He's pacing in front of the large windows; the phone is no longer attached to his head. He snaps his head in my direction as I enter.
"There you are!" he calls, as he moves in my direction. "Where have you been? I tried calling your cell but you left it on your desk." He runs a hand through his hair, still stressed out.
"Sorry, Edward. I didn't want to interrupt you," I tell him. I walk towards him, meeting him halfway and hand him the bags of goodies. "I went and got us some lunch."
Edward places the bags on the coffee table and peers in.
"Is that what I think it is?" He asks excitedly, his tongue unconsciously licking his lips in anticipation.
"Uh huh, and a six pack also," I answer.
Before I know what's happening I feel Edward's lips crash to mine in a hard, quick kiss.
"You are too good to me," he says, and kisses me once more. "The best girlfriend/personal assistant a man could ever ask for."
I pull away a bit and look into his eyes. "Girlfriend?"
"Uh… yes?" His answer sounds more like a question. "I mean, that's what you are, right? I know we haven't discussed it officially or anything, but shit, we declared our love for each other." He brushes some hair off my face.
"Yeah, I suppose I am," I respond simply, loving the thousand watt smile I receive in return.
We settle on the sofa and dig into our lunch in a peaceful silence that's only punctured by an occasional moan of satisfaction from Edward. I have to admit, he was right. The fish and chips are really good.
"So, did you have any major plans this week, Bella?" Edward asks, downing the rest of his second beer.
"Um, not really. I have a thing tonight, but nothing really planned for the week," I tell him. "Why? What's up?"
"Good, cause we're going to New York City tomorrow morning."
"WHAT?"
"Yeah, that was Marcus on the phone, as you know," he starts explaining. He picks up the lunch mess as he continues, "I can't give you all the details, but some big shit is going down and I need to be in New York to meet with the big wigs as soon as possible."
"Alright, why do I need to go again?" I ask. I'm confused, as normally a PA wouldn't be required to attend such a meeting. Typically only the hosting executive's PA is there and will handle everything herself.
"Well, you don't really need to be there," he starts. "Not professionally anyways. I have a loft there, I figure we can go out there together, I can do the meeting thing and then we can spend a few days together, just you and me, in the Big Apple. What do you think?"
What do I think? I think hell yeah! I've never been to New York City before and have always wanted to go.
"I'd love to Edward! But, I can't afford a plane ticket right now," I frown at the ground, but Edward laughs. "What's so funny?"
"You are. You realize I'm a Senior Vice President of Vamp Records don't you?" he mockingly asks. "The LARGEST recording label in the USA."
"Of course I do, Edward. I know that better than you sometimes," I tell him, sticking my tongue out.
"Well then, dear Isabella, you know that I have complete disposal of the company jet," he replies.
I gasp in shock, even though he's right, I did know that. Truth is I completely forgot we even had a company jet. I've never been on it before as I never once travelled with Marcus. I have heard stories about the luxury plane here and there though. It's rumored to have plush leather seats, big screen television, state of the art electronics and even a full sized bedroom, complete with king size bed. With the last thought, my shock turns into excitement.
I smiled seductively at Edward. "Is it true? That there's a bedroom on the company jet?"
"Yes, it's true."
"Good, because I fully intend to join the mile high club then," I answer.
Edward chuckles and gathers me into his arms once more. "That, my dear, will not be a problem," he says before taking me to my happy place with his tongue and magical fingers.
We both scurried about after lunch, trying to play catch up with all the meetings and work that was missed during the phone call with Marcus. I also have to clear Edward's schedule for the rest of the week for his trip to New York. Before long, though, it's time to leave for the day.
On the drive home, Edward tells me he is expecting to see me tonight at The Switch. I agree, but I'm nervous. I haven't told him my secret, Victoria's secret, yet and still have no idea how to do it. I run up to my condo as soon as Edward drops me off. Rose and Alice will know what to do.
"Rose! Alice! Are you guys here?" I call, slamming the door behind me.
"We're in here!" Alice calls from somewhere down the hall.
I walk through the condo following the sounds of giggling girls until I find them in my room.
"What are you guys doing in here?" I ask.
"Oh nothing, we're just setting up a few things for Victoria," Rose explains.
"I need to talk to you guys about her, about Victoria," I say and put my purse down on the bed. "I need to tell Edward the truth and I don't know how to do it."
Both girls talk so fast that I can barely make out who's saying what; ideas are flying out of their mouths left and right. It's obvious they've talked about this subject before. I try to jump in with my two cents here and there, but fail. When they start word storms like this it's best to just ride it out, it usually solves the problem in the end.
After the verbal dust had settled, we had decided that it was best to wait until after the show to tell him. I would change from Victoria to Bella quickly again and take him for a walk where I'd do my best to let it all out. I'm not quite sure what to say, Alice and Rose weren't much help there, they just told me I'd know what to say when the time came. God, I hope they're right.
I lose myself in thought as they dress me. I play out different scenarios in my head about what I should tell Edward. None of them feel right, so I give up. I guess I'll just have to trust in myself to say the right thing. I'm sure Edward will understand everything, once I get the chance to explain it all.
I'm pulled out of my thoughts by Alice plopping a hat on my head.
"What the fuck is that, Alice?" I look into the mirror and curiously eye the dark brown straw woven cowboy hat on my head.
"That would be a hat," she snips.
"Why am I wearing a cowboy hat?"
"Because, it goes with the rest of your outfit." She sounds annoyed.
I look down at what I'm wearing. Alice is right. It does go with my outfit. They have me dressed in super short denim cutoffs and a light pink plaid shirt. The shirt is a button-down but most are undone, showing off a hot pink bra underneath; it's tied at the bottom just above the waist band of the shorts. The sleeves are unbuttoned and rolled to my elbows. My red hair is parted into two pigtails that hang over the front of my shoulders. I swear I look like a redhead Daisy Duke.
"Really, Alice? Country?" I'm a little appalled. She knows I'm not a big country fan. Sure, I can sing it and there are even a few country songs I like, but still. I'm performing with a rock and roll cover band, not Willie fucking Nelson.
"Yes, Bella, country. It is country night at the club. You guys will be doing nothing but country tonight," she tells me. My mouth drops. How did I not know about this? "You knew, we told you, but I can see you forgot," she answers my unspoken question.
I vaguely remember a conversation after work one night last week, but I was probably thinking of Edward and not paying attention. That must be when they told me. Damn it!
"Yeah, I did. It's alright though, I suppose, I just need to chat with Emmett about the set list," I say mostly to myself.
"Here, put these on," Rose says, handing me a pair of cowboy boots and socks.
An hour later we're at the club and I find Emmett already setting up the stage. There are a few extra band members tonight. "Who are these guys?" I ask.
Emmett explains that a few friends join in on country nights; they have a fiddle player, a guy who plays the steel guitar and a banjo player who help create that authentic southern twang.
I smile and nod, I don't really care, but I wouldn't let that little fact out. We go through the set lists together. I know every song he has picked out so I'm breathing easier now. Emmett will also be singing a song or two this time around and we'll sing a duet as well. Emmett also informs me that security has already been set in place. I'll be followed by two guards at all times, thanks to last week's fiasco.
After my chat with Emmett, I head to the bar. There's still an hour until our first set and I want to take this time to relax. I take a seat at the bar and order a beer, my guards diligently stand nearby. And by diligently, I mean they're practically up my ass. They keep an eye on the crowd and try to shoo away a few teenage boys who came to ask for an autograph.
"Guys," I address the guards with a smile. "I don't mind signing autographs; I just don't want to be mobbed like I was last week. A few people at a time is alright though." After a few grumbles the guards agreed and let the kids through. I really don't mind, it's flattering actually.
The young boys gush about how pretty I am, how wonderful my voice is and so on. I tell them how flattered I am and sign their papers and send them on their way. Once I'm alone again I search the growing crowd for the once face I hope to find. Edward's.
I know he's supposed to be here somewhere, but I can't seem to find him. I look all around from my perch at the bar, but after half an hour of people gazing I still don't spot him. Sighing, I get up and make my way back to the stage where the band is waiting for me.
We go over the first set list one more time and take the stage. Greeted by a thundering crowd, we start our first song immediately. Once the notes start to play I get lost in the music. It flows through me and out from my lips. It's a feeling I can't fully describe, it's…uplifting, exhilarating and just plain fun.
Before I know it the first set is over and I'm being ushered off stage by security. They lead us to a newly appointed dressing room, complete with a vanity table, mirrors, fully stocked bar and comfy sofas to relax on. I plop down in the first available seat and sink in to the soft cushions with a sigh.
"That was intense!" Emmett booms, pulling Rose into the room behind him. "They really love you, Vee!"
I snuggle farther into the sofa, pulling my boots off before I tuck my legs underneath me.
"I'm sure I'm not the only one they love. Pretty sure those screaming girls weren't for me," I pointedly look to Jasper, who had taken the stage in nothing but ripped jeans, boots and a cowboy hat.
"What?" Jasper laughs. "It gets hot up there!"
I throw a small pillow at him and laugh, enjoying the easy camaraderie I have developed with these guys.
We all sit around, drinking water and relaxing. I notice Rose and Emmett snuggled together on one of the other sofas. It's cute. I smile, happy that she's found someone special for her. Looking around more I notice that Jasper and PJ aren't exactly talking to each other. I also notice that Alice seems to making her move on Jasper. I move to sit next to her, to tell her not to mess with other people's love lives, but am stopped by a hand on my arm.
"Don't, he's happy with her," PJ tells me, sitting down next to me.
I look up confused. "I thought that you two were together. Aren't you…" I don't finish the sentence, for fear of offending him.
"We were together, for a short time. It was fun, but we both knew it was never going to last," he sighs. "Besides, he's drawn to her. I'm not an ass; I can't deny him what could be true love."
"That's really sweet of you, PJ," I tell him.
He throws a small smile my way and shrugs his shoulders. "Eh, PJ is just PJ."
A few moments later we are all putting ourselves back together to do the second set. I'm pulling my boots back on when I hear the commotion down the hall.
"You FUCKERS! I fucking HIRED you! Now let me through!" I can clearly discern Edward's angry voice, even though he's down the hall and the dressing room door is closed.
"Shit," I mutter to myself. I finish getting my boots on, check my reflection in the mirror and walk to the door. My heart was beating a mile a minute and I take a couple of calming breaths as I exit the room.
I can see him arguing with three security guards at the end of the hallway. The guards are physically holding a red faced Edward back. He's pissed. I heard his anger before, but now I can see it. Edward's face is twisted in anger; the tendons in his neck are standing out. One of his hands is grasping his ruddy hued hair while the other flexes into and out of a fist.
Suddenly, he leans into the closest guard. "Do you have any fucking idea who I am?"
I pick up my pace; knowing Edward is only seconds from losing it. I get to security guards just as Edward reaches up and grabs one by the front of his shirt, only to have his arms violently twisted behind his back by another.
"Edward," I say gently from behind the guards.
His eyes snap up and meet mine, instantly he calms and stops fighting against his captor. "Victoria." He smirks at the guards.
"It's alright, Felix" I tell the hulking guard, laying a hand on his shoulder. "This is Edward Cullen."
Felix's eyes widen in shock and he releases Edward's arms.
"I am so sorry ma'am, Mr. Cullen," Felix blubbers. "We have specific instructions not to let anyone back here except the band."
"It's alright, Felix," I say, with a small smile.
Edward huffs and I just roll my eyes at him. "Come on," I tell him.
The band is coming out of the dressing room as we approach. "Five minutes til show time B," Rose calls.
My eyes turn into saucers and my mouth drops open. She just called me B. I anxiously glance at Edward, but it doesn't seem as if he picked up on Rose's mistake. I turn my horrified gaze to her once more and see her mouth the word 'sorry' before disappearing into the crowd with Emmett.
"Make it quick, Cullen," I drawl in Victoria's voice. "I have to get back."
"Yeah, I know. I need to talk to you, but it can wait until after the next set. So long as guards let me back again," he jokes.
"They will," I say. "Well, see ya later then."
I maneuver around him and walk out the doors to the stage, escorted by Felix and another large guard, Demetri.
The second set goes by much in the same fashion as the first. Emmett sings a few songs this time, including that "Achy Breaky Heart" song by Billy Ray Cyrus. I almost laugh out loud when he starts. The song is just ridiculous, but the crowd seems to love it! The entire dance floor is jam-packed with people line dancing and singing along with the song.
I end the set singing "This Kiss" by Faith Hill. It takes every fiber of my being to not find Edward in the audience and stare into his eyes as I sing. I have done well not searching for him in the crowd tonight. It would just be too much right now, knowing that I'm going to drop a huge bomb on him soon. Truth be told, I feel a little guilty about waiting so long to tell him.
As soon as the song is over, I make my way off stage, only to be greeted with a strong, tattooed arm wrapping around my shoulders. I feel his hot breath on my ear and shudder involuntarily at the close contact. Wetness pools between my legs before he even speaks.
"Victoria, that was amazing," he says. "I really need to talk to you, now."
I smile at him, not trusting myself to speak yet, and let him lead me, with Felix and Demetri of course, to the back of the club. When we pass through, the guards he steers me down the hall and pulls me into the room across from the band's dressing room.
"What are we doing here?" I ask.
EPOV
Finally.
Finally I have her alone. It seems it's taken me all night to get to here.
I had planned on talking to Victoria before the first set, so that I could enjoy the show with Bella when her 'thing' was over, but I was late getting to the club.
I had been exhausted after my day at work. The phone call with Marcus lasted way too long and my lunch with Bella was way too short. We spent the entire afternoon playing catch up. I went home as soon as I dropped Bella at her place and fell into my bed. I had only intended on resting for an hour, but my body had other plans. I had woken up at eight o'clock, the band started at nine. I had rushed to shower and change into my jeans, button down shirt and casual sport coat; making it to the club as the band started the first set of the night. And then there was the whole fiasco with the guards…
It really has taken all night for me to get to here.
"I told you, I need to talk to you," I tell her, leading her into the office across from what seems to be a dressing room.
"Alright, so talk," she says, toying with one of her crimson colored pig tails.
"I want you, Victoria," I start. I hear her gasp lightly. "Not like that. I meant I want to sign you to Vamp Records."
"Oh," she says, looking down. "I, uh, I don't know about that, Edward."
"What's there not to know? It's a record deal, Victoria. It's a chance to be known to the world, to sing for the world. Fortune, fame, it can be yours."
"Yeah, I don't know," she says again. "It's not something I've really thought about. I have a life, a job, friends…a boyfriend." She whispers the last part.
To say I'm shocked is an understatement. Victoria has a boyfriend? Not that I care, I'm not interested in her that way. I'm curious though, if she has a boyfriend then why did she kiss me last week? And where the hell is he? I know for damn sure that if my girlfriend was performing, if Bella we performing, then I'd be there to support her.
I chuckle lightly remember the performance I did get from my Bella the other day. I'm still in awe that she's so talented and even more so that she loves me as much as I love her. Unfortunately, Victoria misunderstood the small laugh.
"What's so fucking funny? You don't think I'm capable of having a boyfriend?" She challenges.
"That's not what I meant, I'm just wondering where such a wonderful boyfriend is. I sure as hell don't ever see you with anyone besides the band," I reply.
It's Victoria's turn to laugh, but hers is a bitter one. "Oh, he's closer that you think." She slumps into a chair and holds her head in her hands.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be rude," I say. It's true. I don't want to insult her. I just want her to sign the contract. "Here, I brought a contract with me. Take it and look over it. You don't have to sign now."
"I don't want a contract, Edward. I can't sign with you," she quietly admits.
"Sure you can," I smile at her, turning on the Cullen Charm. "Look, just take it and read it over and come in next week. We can change things to your liking."
I pull the thick envelope from my jacket pocket and try to hand it to her. She shakes her head and refuses to take the envelope from me.
"Edward, I said no. Please, just drop it," she pleads, her eyes fill with unshed tears.
"I don't get it, Victoria. What's the problem? Tell me, I can help." I want to understand what's going on, but somehow I don't think I will get an answer. Victoria has proven to be almost as stubborn as Bella.
"No, Edward, you can't help. Not with this. I can't tell you right now. Just…" she takes a deep breath and squares her shoulders. "Just talk to Bella later. Let her explain things to you and try not to freak out."
She stands up and walks past me and out the door. I'm stunned. She not only turned down a fucking record deal, but she brought up Bella? What the fuck is that all about? What the hell does Bella know that I don't?
I run a hand through my hair and make my way out from the back area, heading to the bar. I repeatedly reach for my phone to call Bella about this, but I know she's got her own thing going on right now. She'll be here soon enough and I don't want to be the clingy boyfriend who calls all the time because she's not around.
I don't move from my seat as the band takes the stage for their final set. I listen intently as Victoria and Emmett sing a duet together. It's not bad, but there's no doubting that the real vocal talent up there is Victoria. The hour long set seems to drag on until the band is finally ushered away again.
I stand and make my way towards the back. Alice and Rose rush by, not noticing me in their haste.
"Hurry, Alice, we have to get Bella changed fast, Edward's waiting," I hear Rose say.
"I know, I know. It'll only take a few minutes, besides, I have her phone. I'll have to text him, saying she's on her way or something."
I'm utterly confused by their exchange. Alice has Bella's phone? Bella has to get changed? What's up with that?
Maybe Bella left her phone at home and Alice is bringing it to her?
Maybe, that makes sense. I know Rose has a thing for Emmett; it makes sense that Alice would join her to watch the band. But what does it mean that she has to get Bella changed?
Maybe she was at the gym or something?
Shaking my head, I push the thoughts out my brain, they don't make sense and I can't dwell on that right now. I need to talk to Victoria.
I weave my way through the mass and keep on my heading towards the back. It takes a little longer than anticipated, as the crowd has surrounded the doors leading to private area. Everyone is clamoring for the chance to see the band, get pictures or autographs and whatnot. I'm able to push my way through after a bit and my security 'friend', Felix, lets me pass.
I pull out the contract from the inside pocket of my blazer as I turn the corner to the hallway. Emmett, Jasper, PJ and the added band members are making their way back down as I approach.
"Hey man," Emmett greets me, clasping my hand.
"Hey, is Victoria around?" I ask, idly tapping the contract against my leg.
"Yeah man, she's in the room with the girls. They're doing girly make up shit or picking out clothes or something," he shrugs. "Go on in, but don't blame me when they kick you out also."
I laugh. "I think I'll be okay."
We part ways and I continue down the corridor. I stop, halfway there, as my phone vibrates in my pocket. Pulling it out, I see a text message from Bella.
E- on my way, c-ya soon. Xoxo B
I frown down at my phone. On her way? I haven't the slightest clue what's going on, but I know something is not right. I know what I heard Alice and Rose say, even though it made no sense. I distinctly heard Alice say she had Bella's phone.
I sigh and type a quick message back.
B- sure thing, can't wait. E
I keep walking to the dressing room and hit the 'send' button. Immediately I hear a familiar chirping sound coming from the room that is now just feet in front of me. I hear that chirping all day. It's Bella's phone.
I take the last few steps and stop in front of the dressing room door. It's slightly ajar and I can hear female voices drifting out to me.
"Hurry up, Alice, he's waiting. I need to talk to him," I hear Bella say. "I can't put this off any longer."
"Stay still! I can't work with you fidgeting in your seat so much," Alice chastises back.
"What did he want before? When he pulled Victoria into the other office?" Rose pipes up.
I know I shouldn't be listening, but I can't stop myself. Bella's here? Why didn't she come to me when she got here? Or has she been here the whole time? I slump against the wall and close my eyes.
"He was trying to get Victoria to sign a record deal," Bella answers. The other two squeal in delight.
I clutch tighter to the contract that's still in my hand.
How does Bella know about that? Did Victoria tell her?
This is all too confusing. I need answers, and I need them now.
"That's so great!" Alice says.
I open my eyes and turn towards the door. Looking down at my feet, I take a big breath, and silently open the door a little more.
Rose's back is blocking my view as I slowly look up. She seems to be shaking out a couple of shirts.
"Which one? Black or red?" she holds up the shirts.
"Black." I hear Bella answer simply from somewhere inside the room, hidden from my view.
Rose moves out of the way and suddenly I have a clear view into the dressing area. Victoria is sitting at a vanity table. She is facing the mirror, but is hunched over with her elbows propped on the small table; her head rests in her tiny hands. She's no longer wearing her country girl get up. Instead she's in tight jeans and a pair of boots. The only clothing on her top is a black bra. I glance around the room quickly, I see Rose putting away the red shirt and I see Alice walking towards Victoria armed with a hairbrush. Neither has noticed me at the door yet. Who I don't see is Bella. I close my eyes, pinching the bridge of my nose in frustration.
"Sit up, sweetie," Alice croons at Victoria as she approaches from behind.
Victoria sits up in her chair, but keeps her heavily made up eyes closed.
"What am I going to do, Alice?" I hear Bella's voice again. My eyes open and dart around once more, but I still can't see her. I rub my hand across my face, thinking I might be going crazy.
"You're going to let me make you even more beautiful, you're going to go out there, down a shot and tell him everything," she responds. She plays with Victoria's hair for a moment, and then much to my shock she pulls it away.
What. The. Fuck.
I panic for a brief second before I realize it was just a wig.
So, Victoria's not a real red head. Not surprising.
Victoria is still wearing a flesh colored cap sort of thing on her head, I can't tell what her natural hair color is. I don't have to wait long to find out, as Alice pulls the cap off as soon as she hands the wig to Rose. Chestnut brown hair flows down Victoria's bare back.
I audibly gasp from my spot in the door, dropping the contract from my hand.
I know that hair.
Victoria looks up at the sound. Her chocolate brown eyes meet my green ones in the mirror. Her mouth drops open.
I rub my eyes again and blink rapidly. I can't be seeing what I'm seeing. The woman, who's now turned around in her seat, is not the redheaded siren I'd come to meet.
How in the HELL could I have not figured this one out yet?
"Bella?"
She stands and moves towards me, stopping when I visibly stiffen.
"Yes, Edward. It's me. I am Victoria," she says quietly, her voice trembling. "I was going to…"
I hold my hand up to stop her.
"I don't want to hear it. You fucking lied to me!" I yell. I turn to leave, but am stopped as she grabs my arm.
"Edward, please! Just listen!" she begs.
I pull my arm out of grasp without looking back.
"I can't believe you, Bella." I practically spit out her name. "I need to get out of here. I can't deal with this shit right now. You fucking LIED to me! I thought you were better than that."
I walk out quickly, ignoring her sobbing pleas for me to stop and listen.
Dun dun dun...
Please don't kill me! I know it's a horrible cliffy to leave you with! But hey- I've done quite well not falling into my cliffy addiction lately! AND best of all- the next chapter is not only written, but beta'd as well... so you only have to wait a week to get it!
What do you think will happen? Did you expect Edward's reaction? I wonder why Marcus wants Edward in NYC so fast... hmmm...
Please share your thoughts with me! Hit that little review button down there!
Come follow me on twitter also! ALL of my secondary (aka- non-twilight related) characters have been inspired by my twitter family! It's the best way to get your very own chance to be in the story! Follow RobinsFF
Songs Mentioned:
"Achey Breaky Heart" by Billy Ray Cyrus
"This Kiss" by Faith Hill