As always a big thank you to my Beta and Friend, Boo's Boys, you can find her stuff here www(dot)fanfiction(dot)net/u/2860538/Boos_Boys

I strongly suggest checking out Cliches and Euphemisms, I get to pre-read on it, and let me tell you, it all sorts of awesome!

(7)

"I begged you not to do it, Bella. I begged you. This is a mistake, you don't belong with him." He is pleading now, holding on to my hands in a death grip.

"He will never get you like I do." This last statement actually manages to piss me off.

"You know what, Edward. I'm done with this. You had all the time in the world, you could have asked me out. Damn it, you wouldn't even go with me to the prom you bastard. All that crap, 'I don't wanna ruin this.' Well guess what? You did. And I'm done."

I stand then, scoop up my little bag and my now empty cocktail glass. It's time for another drink.

Somehow I manage to ignore his heavy gaze, I accept congratulations on my marriage, I dance with old friends, drink amazing cocktails and even manage to relax a little. And even thought Edwards presence weighs on me, I do my best to put him out of my mind. I've made my choice, and I love my husband; this is my mantra now.

Five Vodka's, two flaming Sambuca's and far too many jaeger bombs later, I'm smiling, laughing at everything and dying for a smoke. I excuse myself from my circle of friends and head out to the balcony, lighting up as soon as I step through the glass doors. I inhale deeply, the nicotine swirls with the alcohol that is already clouding my head and my inhibitions. I sigh with contentment.

"You're avoiding me." The deep timber of his voice makes me jump, nearly dropping my cigarette in the process.

"Really, you picked up on that huh? Tell me, what gave me away?" when all else fails, sarcasm reigns supreme.

"Don't be like that. I came out here to apologise. You know, more than anything else, you're my best friend. I get it, you chose Jake, and I won't pretend I'm cool with that, 'cos I'm not. But, I will respect it, I will respect you. I don't want to lose you completely, Bella." His voice dripped with sincerity, there was no room to doubt him.

He stepped forward, very slowly, and wrapped me in his arms. Filling me with a warmth and comfort all of its own. These arms meant safety, security, honesty, and yes; love.

He leaned down, placed a small kiss on top of my head, his hands running along the planes of my back. I melted into him, taking all the comfort he was offering, and as usual, selfishly not thinking of how this might affect him.

"I miss you, E." I mumble into his shirt, I can't help myself, it is after all the truth.

"I'm right here, Belly Button.

"Don't call me that." I gently admonish, playfully swatting him on the chest. Im rewarded with his laugh, deep and throaty vibrating throughout his body. I find myself hoping that maybe, just maybe, we can find a way out of this mess, and salvage some of our messed up relationship.

Thanks to all that read and review, and to all of you who have favorited or put me on your alerts. Happy Halloween!