This chapter is dedicated to BARBARITO a new reader who read and reviewed every chapter this week! Thank you so much. :*)
Disclaimer: All publicly recognized characters, setting, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.
BPOV
"Bell—llah!" Alice's droning whine was back.
"Al-isss," I hissed back at her, adamant that this nonsense was going to stop. We had bonded over mani/pedis, facials and massages, but this was taking it one step too far.
"Why in the world do I need to do this? No one is going to see it. Believe. Me."
"That's not the point, Bella. Feeling sexy puts you in a certain frame of mind. I keep telling you that this is necessary for you to do your job properly."
That had been Alice's argument since we arrived at the spa this morning, and once I had accepted it I found that it was easy to enjoy myself. Really enjoy myself. The Cranberry/Almond massage we had both enjoyed was a sensual and relaxing experience. One day I hoped I'd be able to afford on my own. Right now, however….
The aesthetician stood over me and a bubbling cauldron of wax, her head bobbing back and forth between Alice and me while we argued over how extensive a body waxing I really required.
I clearly saw the need for my eyebrows to be cleaned up and the pit hair removal. I thought that the full leg wax was a bit excessive as the gown was long, but Alice argued that the dress we'd chosen for the club opening was short and assured me that the full leg wax would last until Tuesday night, easily.
Then the argument started.
"There's no need for me to have a bikini wax, Alice."
"I agree, Bella. You need a Brazilian."
"What?!"
"You heard me. A clean kitty is the only way to go."
Yes, I'd heard her, but I didn't think she was hearing me.
"Alice, no one is going to, umm… see it, so why does it matter?"
She sighed heavily and looked at the aesthetician, "Would you excuse us for a moment?"
As soon as the aesthetician stepped out I sat up. Alice turned on me.
"Bella, did you even look at the lingerie you're going to be wearing under your dress tonight?"
"You know I did." That was a whole 'nother kettle of fish. I won't relive that argument.
"And…?"
"And what? We've already had this conversation, Alice. I agreed to wear them"
"Right, and you can't wear those panties with that," she gestured vaguely towards my midsection, "sticking out all over the place. Just do it."
Defeated, I covered my eyes with my hand as Alice called the aesthetician back into the small room.
Twenty abhorrent minutes later I was showering in a pristine stall, while Alice chattered away at me from across the way. I was still smarting, though I had to admit the view wasn't bad at all. And, I felt clean… and a little naughty.
Alice handed me a fluffy robe and towel as I stepped from the stall. I wrapped my hair in the towel and settled the robe over my shoulders before turning to her.
"You look refreshed," she commented with an arch of her eyebrow.
"I feel good, very relaxed."
"Mmm-hmm," the tone of her voice screamed 'I told you so,' though she managed to not blurt out the sentiment.
I dried off and changed into the outfit Alice handed me.
"Where are my clothes?" I wanted to know.
"Here," she indicated a bag hanging in the cubby I had been assigned. "You can't wear a t-shirt once your hair is done. You won't be able to pull it over your head."
I sat in my assigned stylist's chair and she began drying my hair while taking detailed direction from Alice. Once my hair was done the stylist started on my makeup. I would be wearing a fair amount of makeup today. The only consolation was that Alice insisted that I look 'unenhanced.' It was amazing how long it took to make it look like I wasn't wearing any makeup at all.
After the operator had pressed a small touch up kit into my hand we were ready to leave. I sat in Alice's tiny yellow Porsche and we zipped back to her studio. I was hungry. It was almost four o'clock and I was sure dinner was at least four hours away. The lunch the spa had provided, consommé, a field greens salad with lemon poppy vinaigrette, bread sticks and iced tea was delicious, but very light.
"Alice, I'm starving."
"I have some fruit in my office. You can eat there."
Once we were settled into her office, teacups in hand and sliced apples on the table, Alice turned to me quite seriously.
"We need to talk."
"About what?"
Alice sighed. "Bella, I know that this world," she gestured vaguely, "is new to you. It's probably also intimidating." She paused as if waiting for a reply.
"A little." I didn't sound too sure of myself.
"That's to be expected. Honestly, I think that Mr. Cullen lucked out beyond what anyone has the right to expect. His decision to ask you to work for him was spur of the moment. There's no way he could have planned this. He knew nothing about you. By trusting you he put himself at risk. You could have sold him out to the highest bidder right after accepting the job. You could have had a sordid past that would come back to bite him on the ass. That famous Cullen luck served him well in your case. But, just because you are exactly what you appear to be, doesn't mean that you still can't be a liability."
"A liability?"
"Like any employee, if you don't do your job well, you become a liability. You don't want to be a minus, do you?"
"Of course not, Alice!"
"Good. You need to listen to what I have to say and know that I'm right. You're not shy, but demure, by nature. It becomes you quite nicely. The women that Mr. Cullen is used to, however, are anything but shy and probably couldn't define 'demure' if Webster himself was standing next to them."
I smiled a bit at the dig she'd just made, not just of the women's personalities, but their intelligence as well.
"You're going to need to be a bit aggressive tonight, and even more so at the club next week."
"Aggressive?" I may have squeaked.
"I'm not saying you should jump him on the dance floor, though I would understand if you did. Wait'll you see him in a tux." She made swoon noises and waggled her freshly waxed eyebrows at me. "But you should probably be physical with him. Don't just listen when he speaks, lean towards him. Put your hand on his arm when you're sitting together. If he offers you his arm while walking, take it, but slide your hand down towards his wrist and lower your arm, that's closer to holding hands which is a more intimate contact. Keep your eyes on him when you're apart. And, for heaven's sake, don't let anyone dance with him more than you. In short, act like he dazzles you."
"I'm not much of a dancer, Alice; he probably won't want to dance with me at all."
She waved me off. "He's an excellent dancer; you'll have no problems dancing with him. What's important here is that you start acting the part."
"What if he thinks it's too much?"
"He's used to women throwing themselves at him, slipping keys into his hand and panties into his pockets. Even if you were to do everything I've suggested he'll probably barely notice. But other women will notice. You'll be sending out a strong signal. Actually, the fact that he'll barely notice your actions will drive other women crazy. It'll seem to them that your intimacy is so casual that he views it as commonplace, comfortable, like you've done it a million times before."
"What if he rebuffs me?"
"He won't, but if he does just remind him that you're doing your job. That will bring him up short." She hesitated. I could tell that she had something else she wanted to say.
"What?"
"You should kiss him."
A few incoherent syllables stuttered from my mouth. She was kidding, right?
"Bella?"
"Ah…uh…umm…I don't..."
"Bella!"
"I can't do that, Alice."
She rolled her eyes. "Are you going to make me remind you that you're supposed to be his girlfriend? Why wouldn't you kiss him?"
"We're not at that stage yet."
"Bella, no relationship is really defined in 'stages.' Promise me this, if it seems right you won't hesitate. You're going to need to put your acting skills to the test here."
Acting skills. Alice's words reminded me of Edward's hesitancy last week. He had claimed not to be much of an actor and I reminded him he was a salesman and needed to sell our relationship. Here I was actively fighting the exact same advice.
"You're right, Alice. I'm being stupid. It's all an act and I need to sell it for Edward's sake."
She looked at my suspiciously for a moment before deciding I was truly on board with her way of thinking.
"Okay, then…well, the only other thing I'd have to say is make sure you two leave together. Don't let him pick up a hoochie and escape with her."
"Alice, his parents are going to be there."
"Well, that's never stopped him before," Alice muttered.
My eyebrow rose at this pronouncement. I filed her comment away for further discussion at another time.
"Now, let's get you dressed," she continued.
I placed my empty teacup on the side table and rose. I walked into a curtained off alcove and removed the clothes I was wearing. I pulled the lingerie I'd be wearing tonight out of the bag and quickly pulled it on. I turned and glanced at myself in the mirror, then sighed. Alice was right, as usual, the waxing did make a difference in the way the panties looked. Hooking the stocking to the garters, I stepped out from behind the curtain and back into Alice's office.
Alice let out a low whistle and I blushed. This was definitely not something I'd wear unless coerced.
"Let Mr. Cullen see you in that and no one will need acting skills. You look amazing!"
My first instinct was to be embarrassed, but truthfully, I felt… powerful. A small giggle escaped me.
"What?" Alice wanted to know.
"I've heard the phrase 'big girl panties' before, but I don't think I've ever owned a pair."
Alice joined me in laughter. "Wearing that under this dress will certainly give you some confidence. You're going to rock it tonight."
Alice helped me into my dress before checking my makeup critically and helping me touch up my gloss with the kit I had been given.
"Fantastic," was all she said. I gathered my clutch and the wrap she had selected for the night.
"Bella, if anyone asks would you be okay telling them you're wearing an Alice Brandon original?"
"Of course not, Alice. I'm happy to shout it from the rooftops if you'd like."
She grinned at me. "No need. It's not likely that anyone will ask, anyway, but just in case…" She shrugged.
I glanced at myself in the mirror again. I thought it might be likely someone would want to know about this gorgeous dress. Then I realized something.
"No jewelry this time?" I asked.
"Oh, I had it sent to Mr. Cullen's office. I'm sure he'll bring it along. You're going to love this necklace."
"It's not another piece from Tiffany's is it? I was terrified all night at the dinner that I was going to lose that beautiful necklace."
"Oh…umm…" Alice was interrupted by a knock on her office door. She rushed over and opened it.
"Mr. Cullen. You look terrific, as always."
"Thank you, Ms. Brandon."
I couldn't see him with the door open. I took a deep breath and solidified in my mind the role I needed to play tonight. I wasn't too nervous, figuring that this was a classy event and it was unlikely that anything wild would happen. This would be good rehearsal for the club opening next week, I thought, where I was sure wild things would likely occur. Stepping forward, I looked up to greet Edward. My greeting died in my throat however as I took in the sight of Edward Cullen in his tuxedo.
To say he looked good would be an understatement. Hell, to say he looked phenomenal would be an understatement. I'm sure I stood there gaping a like an idiot for a few minutes before Alice cleared her throat and brought me back to my senses.
Edward was wearing a single-breasted three button tux. The collar of his crisp, white shirt was high, almost framing his face, which was turned down to look at me. His tie and pocket handkerchief had a fine, black and white, striped pattern. He held a jewelry box in his hand.
"Bella," he started, his voice sounding hoarse. Clearing his throat he continued, "You look amazing this evening. Bravo, Ms. Brandon."
"Thank you," we answered together.
I watched as Alice walked over to him.
"The collar is fine that way for a short time, Mr. Cullen, but it will drive you crazy if you leave it up all night." She stood on tiptoe to whisper something in his ear. He bent slightly to hear her and gave a small nod. She smoothed the collar down, tucking it under his lapel and patted him lightly on the chest. I felt a crazy blip of jealousy at her casual familiarity with him. I shook my head and looked away for a moment to collect myself.
When I turned back Edward was standing in front of me. He smiled when he saw he had my attention.
"You truly look beautiful tonight, Bella." He opened the box in his hands and turned it to show me the necklace. I gasped before Alice interrupted.
"Do you like it?"
"It's beautiful," I said in wonder.
"May I?" He picked up the necklace and held it out to me. I took a half step forward, almost mesmerized as he slid it around my neck. His warm fingers clasped it in place. When he let go, I felt its significant weight settle comfortably. His hand brushed my collarbone as he moved away.
"Perfect," Alice declared.
"Yes," Edward agreed, looking at me, "perfect." Picking up my wrap, he turned to me once again and helped me put it on. I took my clutch and glanced over at Alice when he offered me his arm. We exchanged a significant look. As instructed, I took his proffered arm before sliding my hand down his forearm. He didn't seem to notice anything unusual so I opened my hand and encircled his large wrist as best I could, holding him lightly.
"Well, goodnight, Alice. Thank you for everything."
"You're welcome! I had fun today. Oh! The dress. We're going to have to work out a system or something. You can leave it at your place tonight, but I'd like to add it back to the collection on Monday. Can I send Riley for it?"
I shuddered a little at the thought of clean-cut, well-dressed Riley trudging though my neighborhood with the dress, but had no alternative that made sense.
"Sure, Alice."
"Terrific. He'll call you before he leaves."
"Okay. Will I see you on Tuesday?"
"I don't think you'll need me. Wear your hair down on Tuesday. Riley will bring your dress when he picks up this one."
"Actually, would you mind sending it to Edward's office again? I'm going to be at there on Tuesday."
"Sure," Alice agreed easily.
"Okay. Well, thanks again, for everything. Goodnight."
"You're welcome. Have fun, you two."
"Good evening, Ms. Brandon."
With that, Edward led me out the door. I glanced back briefly to smile at Alice and found her staring after us thoughtfully.
APOV
I was thinking hard after the two of them left. I had been a little surprised by their reactions to one another. I knew they'd both look fantastic, but wasn't expecting each to be stunned into silence by the sight of other. It was almost embarrassing watching them take each other in. Bella stood stock still like a deer caught in the headlights. It was easy to see why, Edward Cullen cleaned up nicely, though he was pretty hot all dirty, too. What surprised me was his reaction. When he first saw Bella he just stood there staring at her. I'm not even sure she realized he was reacting as strongly to her as she was to him.
Hmm, maybe Bella and he wouldn't have to work so hard at convincing anyone something was going on between the two of them after all.
BPOV
The shiny black limo was visible from the lobby of Alice's building. Edward had said he was sending a car, I just didn't realize this was what he meant. It made sense, I suppose, but I wondered why the two of us needed such a large vehicle.
"I should warn you," Edward said, "Charlotte is in the limo with Jasper. Things are…tense. It won't be a fun ride."
"Oh."
"They're not going to have a go at one another, but it doesn't look good. I have no idea how he convinced her to come tonight when she's been avoiding him for over a week. I'll introduce you as a colleague. I doubt she'll be too interested, but if she does ask you any questions keep your answers vague. If she and Jazz work things out we can fill her in later."
"Whatever you say, Edward. I'll follow your lead."
He chuckled. "In that case, you'll have to start drinking as soon as you're inside. That seems to be the way everyone is coping." He said this with a smile, but I had the feeling he wasn't kidding.
The driver pulled open the door as we approached, and Edward offered me his hand to help me into the limo. I sat down and slid over quickly to make room for him.
Emmett and Rosalie were sitting on one side of the car. Emmett offered me a hearty hello and Rosalie added her quieter greeting, both were holding champagne flutes. Jasper was staring out the window at the street and didn't acknowledge me. A small platinum blonde woman in a silver gown sat near him, but they were not touching. She looked at me with mild interest. I noticed she was wearing a large diamond engagement ring.
"Charlotte, this is Bella, a colleague of mine. Bella, this is Charlotte, Jasper's fiancé."
A shadow flickered over Charlotte's face before she offered me a small smile. I was sure her momentary lapse of control was obvious to everyone in the car, if even I realized it.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Charlotte."
"You as well, Bella," she replied.
Edward quirked an eyebrow at me and offered me a glass of champagne. I took it gratefully.
Jasper heaved a sigh and looked at the two of us as we clasped hands briefly. He slid minutely closer to Charlotte, but she didn't lean into him. The atmosphere in the car was tense, as Edward had described. Emmett and Rosalie spoke quietly to one another. I heard them mention EJ a few times. Edward asked if I had my Blackberry with me and mentioned something about discussing our schedule for the next few weeks. All in all, it was an uncomfortable ride and I was glad it only took twenty minutes to drive to the Gala.
Our limo waited in queue to pull up to the entrance. I looked out the window and noticed a section of the sidewalk had been cordoned off so the people exiting the cars could walk unimpeded to the door. A small group of photographers was gathered on either side of the ropes. They were snapping pictures madly. I didn't recognize any of their subjects, but I rarely kept up with the society pages. These weren't rock stars or actors, just the who's who of Chicago.
Our car pulled up and stopped. I followed Edward's lead and drained my glass as he slid towards the door and waited while the driver ran around and opened it. The noise level rose considerably when the door stood open. Edward cleared his throat and ducked out of the car. I could see the number of flashes increase significantly, and heard people calling his name. Instead of responding to them, he turned back towards me and offered his hand. I took it firmly and stepped out of the car not letting go even when I was steady on my feet. The flashes continued to go off around us. The clicking cameras sounded like bugs as we were photographed for the first time together, officially.
I smiled brightly, but kept my eyes trained on Edward. He smiled at me crookedly and led me towards the door. I realized a few of the photographers had stopped trying to call Edward and were instead saying, "Miss! Miss!" I hesitated, and Edward looked back at me. He gave me the slightest of nods and look in his eyes puffed up my courage. I stopped and turned, but didn't drop his hand. He stood behind me as I looked at the photographers.
I heard several shouted questions. The most common was "Who are you?" and "What's your name?" but one or two asked about the dress. "Who are you wearing?" I remembered my promise to Alice.
"This is an Alice Brandon original." It was a simple statement, but you'd have thought I just announced mine and Edward's engagement by the way the photographers surged forward. I guess they were happy for any sound bite they could get, and by answering them I encouraged their curiosity.
Unnerved, I took a small step back. Edward dropped my hand and instead slid his arm around my shoulder and pulled me closer to him protectively. With a smile and a wave to the crowd he turned me around and we walked into the foyer.
"You handled that very well," he said, low in my ear, "like you've done it a million times before."
I preened under his praise. We checked my wrap and started walking towards the ballroom. My small victory gave me the confidence I needed to reach out and clasp Edward's hand as we entered. He squeezed my hand lightly, but didn't let go as he led me to a large round table near the front of the brilliant ballroom.
I was surprised that I recognized the couple already seated. Then I realized I shouldn't be, this was the handsome couple in the photograph I noticed in Edward's office the first time I was there. The man stood as we came to stop by their side.
"Mom, Dad," Edward greeted them casually.
"Good evening, son," the elegantly dressed woman answered. She smiled as Edward bent to kiss her cheek.
"Edward." His father offered him his hand and Edward had to let go of me to take it.
"I'd like to introduce you to Bella Swan. Bella, these are my parents, Esme and Carlisle Cullen."
"It's a pleasure to meet you both, Mr. and Mrs. Cullen" I said sincerely as I offered my hand first to his mother and then to his father. Both shook hands with me gently.
"Please, call me, Carlisle," his father insisted, "and I'm sure my wife would prefer Esme."
"Yes dear, no need to be formal."
"Thank you."
"Please, be seated; anywhere is fine." Esme indicated the table in front of her. Edward held out a chair one removed from his mother and I settled into it. He sat between us as Emmett and Rosalie approached. Edward and his father both stood again. Rosalie greeted her in-laws referring to them as "Mom" and "Dad," before sitting down next to me.
"Anyone want a drink?" Emmett asked.
"I'll go with you," Edward offered. "Bella?"
"Thank you," I replied nodding. Emmett and Edward walked away.
"Great dress, Bella. Alice really outdid herself for you."
"Thanks, Rosalie, you look amazing." She really did. She was wearing a long, black off the shoulder number. Her blonde hair was loose down her back. A simple gold necklace with an onyx pendant hung around her neck.
"You both look lovely this evening," Esme chimed in.
"Thank you," we replied simultaneously.
"Bella, tell me a bit about yourself."
"Oh, um, I recently started working for CE. I'm lending a hand in Edward's office while Angela starts taking on some of Mrs. Cope's responsibilities.
"Are you originally from Chicago?"
"Oh, no. I'm from a small town in Washington State called Forks. I moved here to go to school."
"Which school did you attend?"
"I went to the University of Chicago. I graduated last year."
"What was your field of study?"
"I have a BA in English."
"Really?" Esme seemed more interested than such a statement warranted. "Do you do any charity work?"
"Umm, I haven't."
Rosalie interrupted, "Bella's a working girl, Esme, she doesn't have time for the endeavors you enjoy. Chicago's an expensive place to live." I looked over at Rosalie to see what she meant, but her declaration seemed earnest. She wasn't insulting me, she was trying to clue Esme in to the realities of my situation.
"Of course, Rose, but I'm sure Bella would love to share her knowledge with the less fortunate. Bella, besides the hospital, I'm involved in a local literacy program for underprivileged youth. Would you be interested in learning more about it? We can always use energetic young people. It's so much easier for you to connect with the kids we try to help."
Edward and Emmett returned to the table with Jasper and Charlotte in tow. Edward set my glass down in front of me before taking his seat.
"What are you talking about?"
"I was just trying to see if Bella would be interested in helping out the literacy program I'm involved in. It would be very beneficial for us to have someone with an English degree look over our plans and meet with the kids. I'm sure they'd be better able to identify with someone her age than mine. It's so hard to get young volunteers. So often, their priorities are skewed."
"I'd love to hear more about your program, Esme."
"Wonderful, dear, do you have any free time later next week? Thursday, perhaps? I'm sure Edward could spare you for a few hours. You could come to my office and we could chat about it."
I took my Blackberry from my clutch and opened up the calendar.
"What time on Thursday?"
"Does three o'clock work for you?"
"Three's fine. I'll look forward to it."
"Me too."
Edward was looking at me so I smiled gently at him. The orchestra struck up a song.
"Would you dance with me?" he inquired holding out his hand.
Taking his hand I stood and allowed him to lead me to the dance floor.
"I'm really not much of a dancer," I confessed.
"No worries. It's all in the leading." With that, we turned to face one another. Edward slipped his hand around my waist and held me firmly, but not too tight. I placed my hand on his shoulder, my heels making us closer in height, so the reach was comfortable. I looked at him and he smiled at me. He pushed lightly against my hand and we were off.
EPOV
Emmett and I met Jasper and Charlotte at the bar. They were talking quietly with one another, but I could sense the tension in the air. We ordered our drinks. While waiting, I looked over at our table. Bella, Rose and my mother seemed to be having an involved conversation. This could be bad.
Our drinks were delivered and the four of us headed to our table.
I knew I needed to get Bella away from my mother before Esme had her agreeing to chair some monstrous event. My mother was persuasive like that. While some of my business sense was a gift from First, via genetics, much of my style came from my mother. She could charm the birds from the trees.
"Would you dance with me?" I asked Bella, holding out my hand.
She took my hand without answering, but stood up and let me lead her to the dance floor.
"I'm really not much of a dancer," she told me.
"No worries. It's all in the leading," I told her before sliding my hand around her waist.
What the hell was she wearing? I could easily feel lacing through the material of her dress. I spread my hand wider and confirmed that she was definitely wearing a corset. It was the only piece of underwear I could imagine being laced all the way down her back. Christ! Bella was looking at me so I smiled and started to lead her in the dance.
A freakin' corset! If I were to hazard a guess I was probably paying for it, as well. The thought of what Bella was wearing under that dress and the fact that it was, ostensibly, a gift from me was a huge turn on. My first instinct was to pull her against me, but that would demonstrate to Bella exactly how much I appreciated her appearance tonight.
Bella stumbled slightly drawing my attention back to our dance.
"Look at my eyes, it will make it easier for you to follow my lead," I told her. I glanced away to see what had grabbed her attention. My brother and Rosalie were also dancing. She had her arms around his neck and he had his around her waist. They were pressed together from shoulder to knee. He was whispering in her ear and she was laughing loudly as they swayed together completely out of synch with the music. They certainly looked like they were having fun. I looked back at Bella. She had her eyes on me as I had instructed.
"So my mother's already got her claws in you?"
Bella smiled. "She's very enthusiastic, isn't she? She mentioned a literacy project she works on and asked if I'd like to help. It sounds like a good cause."
"It is," I explained, "but don't feel obligated. My mother is always campaigning to get people involved in her pet projects. If you don't have the time she'll understand."
"Well, it's not like my job takes up all my time. I am hoping to go back to school next semester, but even a class or two won't add too much to my plate."
This was new. "You're thinking of returning to school?"
"Well, yes. This job really gives me opportunities, Edward. I'm not sure how I can thank you for that. However, the job as Edward Cullen's pretend girlfriend has a definite shelf life. At some point you're going to want a real girlfriend." I hadn't thought of that, but she was right, of course. She continued, "I need to actually see a paycheck first, but I'm hoping it's not too late to register for the spring semester. I think I'd like to get my teaching certificate. Even if I don't decide to teach it will be good to have something I can fall back on so I'm never required to take a job like the one I had at Nomad."
I nodded. "What had your plans been? You don't have to tell me if you don't want to, but you seem like someone who had a plan and I doubt it was to work as an office cleaner."
She pursed her lips and sighed, looking away from me. I followed her line of sight and caught sight of Jasper and Charlotte dancing together. They had even more space between them than Bella and I did. She stumbled again, as she had when she looked away from me earlier.
"Bella, eyes on me, please." This time I did pull her closer, our conversation having given me the time I needed to get myself back under control.
"I never planned on coming to Chicago," Bella started. "My senior year English teacher was an alumnus and believed that I'd do well in U of C's English program. With her help and my grades I was accepted. The tuition was outrageous, but my dad was so proud of what I'd accomplished he insisted that I make the most of my opportunity. He was the Chief of Police in the town I grew up in, Forks, Washington. He didn't have much money saved, but he had inherited our house from his parents and was able to take out a mortgage."
"Between the mortgage, my savings and the money I made working from time to time, we were able to pay my way through. I wanted to go to grad school. There's more money available to grad students, TA positions and stuff like that. I always planned on paying dad back when I started working. Then, about three months after I graduated, he died."
I sucked in a breath, shocked by her announcement.
"Bella, I'm so sorry." She smiled at me sadly.
"Thanks. Of course, I wasn't in any position to pay back the mortgage. My dad had a small pension, but that was gobbled up by the bank. They finally foreclosed on the house and now it's gone. I still talk to folks from Forks now and then. They say the house is empty to this day. The bank can't sell it for what was owed on it – he financed during the height of the housing bubble – and no one in town is interested anyway, out of respect, I guess, for the old Chief."
"What about your mother?"
"My mom remarried a few years ago. Her husband, Phil, was a minor league ball player. He was injured a few seasons back and can't play professionally anymore. He's a high school coach and mom works odd jobs. They live in Florida, but don't have enough to share, either." She shrugged.
"The job at Nomad wasn't much, but it was the best paying job I could get with no real experience in any practical position and a degree that was essentially useless."
"I've made you sad," I said when the tone of her voice registered. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you; I really just wanted to get to know you better."
"It's fine, Edward. I'm fine. I'm just determined not to make the same mistake twice. What you're paying me, for as long as it lasts, I'm going to put to good use."
"Glad to help." We had danced the entire times she talked and I just became aware of the fact that dinner service was starting.
"Hungry?"
"Yes!" She was enthusiastic. Very different from the other women I dated, who tried to pretend they never actually ate.
I let go of her waist but held her hand long enough to bring it to my lips and kiss it. Then, instead of letting go, I held her hand as we returned to our table. Our salads and fresh champagne flutes were already waiting for us.
Conversation at the table was stilted. No one wanted to pry into Jasper and Charlotte's issues. My mother made small talk with Bella about the literacy program they had been discussing, while my father listened politely to Emmett and me as we talked about our recent successes at CE. Rosalie was committing the unforgiveable sin of talking on her cell phone while at the dinner table, but my parents were almost as concerned about their first grandchild as she was. They understood her nervousness about leaving him with a sitter for the first time.
I reached for the bread basket and offered it to Bella. She selected a small dinner roll, thanking me before placing it on her bread plate. A trio of young women walked past our table, stopping to congratulate Esme on organizing the event. While they spoke to Esme their eyes were on Bella and me. I turned back to my bread when I was startled to feel Bella's hand on my arm. I looked at her hand before turning to her.
"What are you doing?" I asked quietly. She smiled at me brilliantly, while leaning in as if to better hear what I was saying.
"Acting," she answered simply.
I chuckled as I remembered her assertion last week that I'd need to sell our relationship if it was going to be successful in keeping the women away. Well, no time like the present. I reached across my body with my left hand and grasped Bella's where it lay on my forearm. I looked over at the women talking to Esme and was gratified to see their reaction to my gesture. Seems Bella knew what she was talking about.
Dinner continued quietly. Even Bella seemed to be feeling the strained atmosphere. She turned to me after the last course was served and said, "I see First and Elizabeth over there. Would you accompany me while I say hello?"
"Absolutely, let's go."
Bella and I stood and held hands casually. I took two more glasses of champagne from a passing server and offered her one.
We walked to my grandparents' table. Elizabeth noticed us first and smiled. She nudged First, who stood as we approached.
"Bella," he greeted, taking the hand she offered, "it's lovely to see you again."
"Hello, First, Elizabeth," she replied nodding her head and acknowledging them both.
"Bella, dear," my grandmother said, "you look divine. That color suits you."
Bella blushed lightly at the compliment. "Thank you."
"Bella, I'd like to introduce you to some friends of mine," First continued. "I've known Ephraim here, since we were in college. This is Ephraim Black, his son, William, and grandson, Jacob. Gentlemen, this is Miss Bella Swan, a contractor working at CE, and I think you all know my grandson, Edward."
"It's a pleasure to meet you all," Bella said, extending her hand and shaking with the three men.
I took a moment to study the three men seated with my grandparents. I knew Ephraim and William from their business dealings with First, but had never met Jacob before. He appeared to be my age, maybe a little younger. I watched as he shook Bella's offered hand.
"Nice to meet you, Bella," he said easily. It seemed to me the smile she gave him was a little more genuine than the one she offered the other men at the table.
I came behind her also shaking hands with the three men.
"I don't think we've met before," I said when I got to Jacob.
"I don't think so, either" Jacob replied.
"The ladies just ran to the restroom, please, have a seat," William offered, nudging a chair aside for Bella.
"Thank you." She sat gracefully.
"Lovely dinner your mother's put together here, Edward. We're having a wonderful time."
"Thank you, William, I'll be sure to tell her you said so."
"Music's a little stodgy," Jacob interjected, looking at Bella and me, while grinning broadly. I guess he thought we'd agree.
Bella laughed lightly. "I enjoyed a few turns around the dance floor," she disagreed, "it's not so bad."
"Well, then, maybe I need to give it a try."
With that he stood up and bent slightly in front of Bella, offering her his hand. "Would you dance with me?"
She started to get up, but froze momentarily while shooting me a glance. I smiled evenly at her and she continued to rise, taking Jacob's hand lightly. I doubt anyone at the table noticed her pause. I'd never be so boorish as to refuse my date the right to dance with whomever she wished.
However, that didn't stop me from feeling a bit smug as I watched them sway on the dance floor together. They were moving in time to the music but weren't really dancing. I watched their awkward movements for a short time before turning to the conversation being held at the table. It was a few minutes later when I noticed a change in the music. Jacob and Bella were standing in front of the conductor and grinning like fools. The conductor was smiling back at them as he led the orchestra in a peppy number from the Big Band Era. As I watched, Jacob grabbed Bella and started twirling her around in circles. She quickly lost her balance and he grabbed her to keep her on her feet. They danced around laughing and making fools of themselves in general.
I was about to stand to go retrieve Bella, who obviously must be drunk, when I heard First comment, "Your boy seems quite taken with my grandson's assistant, Will."
"Jacob always did have good taste," William replied. First caught my eye and gave me a significant look. I frowned. Yes, it was definitely time to retrieve Bella.
I started walking towards the dance floor when I was intercepted by one of my father's colleagues. Dr. Snow was in her early 30s and quite beautiful. She and I had maneuvered around one another carefully for years. Either she was involved, or I was. The attraction was strong, and mutual, but the timing was never right it seemed."
"Edward." She smiled at me.
"Kathleen," I replied, returning her smile, Bella momentarily forgotten.
"Are you here alone?" she asked.
"No, I was just about to collect my date from the dance floor," I said, indicating Bella where she stood swaying with Jacob, while talking with Rosalie who was dancing nearby with my father.
"That's not Tanya."
"No," I confirmed. "Tanya and I broke up not too long ago."
"I hadn't heard."
"Yes, well, we didn't actually shout it from the rooftops. The separation was…amicable." That wasn't a complete lie. Tanya had agreed to go away as long as I didn't make a fool of her by getting involved with someone else too soon.
"Well, in that case, could you spare a dance for an old friend? I don't think your date will mind." She glanced over at the dance floor.
I looked over to where Bella and Jacob were dancing. The music had returned to a more sedate pace and they were dancing while talking animatedly with one another. He had his hand on the small of her back. As I watched he slid it up a little higher then down a little lower. Seems I wasn't the only one interested in what was going on under that dress. I'd have to speak to Ms. Brandon and ask her to tone down the lingerie purchases.
"Certainly, I'd love to dance with you."
Taking her hand lightly, I led her onto the dance floor. Kathleen didn't need direction the way Bella did. Dancing with her was effortless. Pulling her against me, we moved to the music.
Putting my lips to her ear I asked, "How's Sam doing?"
She sighed lightly and I could feel her breath on my neck. "I wouldn't know. Unlike you and Tanya, our split wasn't so amicable. I'm surprised you didn't hear the shouting in that ivory tower you work in." She sighed again as she let go of my hand and slid her arms around my neck. I rested both my hands on her hips. "Never trust a lawyer, Edward; especially one who has unlimited access to young paralegals."
"I'm sorry, Kathleen. Truly, I am. I wouldn't have asked if I'd known."
"I know, Edward. I know. I'm over it, mostly. So, tell me about your date."
"Bella?" I was about to continue when I felt a tap on my shoulder. Turning I came face-to-face with my father.
"May I?" he asked politely. I was somewhat surprised. My father had never cut in on a dance with me before. Figuring he wanted to speak with Kathleen about something relating to the hospital I gave a small nod and stepped back allowing him to hold her and dance away. Rosalie slid her hand into mine and turned me. I put my other hand at her waist and we began dancing as well.
"What, exactly, are you doing?" she asked.
"Hmm? Doing about what?"
"Doing dancing with Kathleen Snow?"
"We were just dancing, Rosalie."
"No, what we're doing now is dancing. What you were doing earlier with Bella was dancing. What you were doing with Kathleen Snow was foreplay."
I scowled at her. I certainly wasn't coming on to Kathleen and told Rosalie as much.
"You might not think so, but you were dancing awfully close to a woman who was not here as your date. Your little tete-a-tete was downright disrespectful."
The reminder about Bella got me a little defensive I admit. It wasn't like I left her at a table somewhere. She seemed to be enjoying dancing with Jacob.
"Bella's dancing with the grandson of a friend of First's."
"No, Bella danced to two songs with the grandson. For the last twenty minutes she's been at the bar with half the single men here."
Startled by her pronouncement, I dropped Rosalie's hand and looked at the bar. Bella and Jacob sat together, laughing, at a small table set up nearby. Three or four other men hovered around them, chatting with Jacob. I recognized sycophants when I saw them. Jacob must be attending with his "posse."
"You did notice how Bella looks tonight, didn't you?" Rose asked.
"Of course. I told her earlier that she looked beautiful."
"Mmhmm… did you think that you were the only one who'd notice? You haven't gone out of your way to let anyone know you're here 'together-together.' Is it any wonder they're treating her as if she's available?"
I looked at the bar again. Everyone was drinking champagne and I noticed two empty flutes on the table. How many was that? Four? Five? Well, Bella had eaten and been fairly active. All the same, it was probably time to break up the private party.
Letting go of Rosalie altogether, I brushed through the sycophants and over to Bella and Jacob. "Bella, they're about to set out dessert. Would you like something?"
"Edward!" she spoke my name a little loudly. I shook my head slightly then smiled as I realized she was a little tipsy. Jake sat next to her grinning like a fool.
"Hi, Bella," I said, using the exaggerated intonation one uses when dealing with someone who's drunk too much, "it's time for dessert." I held my hand out to her. "Come, join me." I took the champagne glass out of her hand and placed it on the table. "It was nice meeting you, Jacob," I said in way of parting.
"You, too," he replied, not taking his eyes off Bella. "Bella, thank you for the dance. I hope to see you again soon."
"Bye Jake! I had fun talking with you!"
I slid my arm around Bella's waist as we made our way across the room. She seemed to melt into my side as she let me guide her to the Viennese Table.
"How much have you had to drink tonight, Bella?"
"Um, champagne?" I chuckled and shook my head at her inappropriate response. Bella definitely had too much to drink.
"Yes, Bella, the champagne. How much did you drink?"
"Six." My head snapped around as I turned to look at her.
"You had six glasses of champagne?"
"Yes." She blinked.
Hmm, one word answers. This wasn't good.
"Are you okay?"
"I'm fine, Edward. Just fine. Really. Fine," she assured me with a bright smile.
"You really need to eat something else," I decided as we approached the desserts. "What looks good?"
"I look good?"
"Yes, you do, but I meant to eat, Bella. What would you like to eat?" She was leaning against me a little harder as we stood in front of the dessert selections.
"Ooh! Cake!"
"You like the cake? Great, let's get a piece." Bella shook her head and pushed away from me, standing surprisingly steady on her own two feet.
"Two pieces. I'm not sharing with you. That wasn't on the list."
List? What list?
"I'm not sure what that means, Bella, but two pieces it is." We each took a slice of cake and made our way across the room to our table.
"Welcome back, dear," my mother said, "I'm afraid you two will be on your own for awhile. Rose and Emmett left, they missed EJ. Jasper and Charlotte left as well. What's going on between them is very sad. I feel so bad for Jasper." My mom sighed as my father joined us.
"Ready, love?" he asked my mother.
"Absolutely. Edward, dear, your father and I are going to make our rounds. If you leave before we return thank you for coming. Bella, it was lovely meeting you. I look forward to seeing you on Thursday." Bella smiled and nodded in response but wisely kept her mouth closed as my parents walked away.
I put my cake down and pulled Bella's chair out for her.
"Coffee?" A server approached us bearing a carafe.
"Yes, please," I responded, turning over my cup.
"Do you have any tea?"
"Certainly, ma'am. Another server will be along shortly with the hot water.
I regretted taking the coffee. I had hoped Bella would drink my cup as well as her own. I suppose I could get an extra cup of tea by using Rose's cup.
Bella tucked into her cake as I watched her. She took small, deliberate bites. As the server said, someone else came along with a tea service. Bella picked a tea bag and I grabbed the same one, turning over Rose's cup so to indicate another cup be poured.
"So, Bella, did you have a good time tonight?"
"Yes, I did, thank you for bringing me." She sounded better already, not entirely sober, but we were past the one word answers.
"It was my pleasure." I paused. "Can you tell me about the list?"
She paused before sighing.
"Alice had a list of things she thought I should do tonight to help our charade along."
A light was beginning to dawn. "And what, exactly, was on this list?" I slid my chair closer to Bella's so we could talk more easily.
She finished her cake and turned to face me.
"She recommended that I be more physical with you to keep the other women away." Bella blushed lightly as if she was embarrassed by the turn of the conversation.
"She told me to lean into you when you spoke, and to touch you if other women approached," she continued, leaning in closer to me and putting her hand over mine, which was resting on the table.
"That's why I put my hand on your arm when those girls came over earlier. She told me to keep an eye on you when we were apart and that I shouldn't let anyone dance with you more than I did. I kept count; you only danced with the hussy for one and a half dances before your father cut in."
"Hussy? Kathleen?" I smiled at the description. Kathleen was confident and beautiful, definitely not a hussy, but I was enjoying Bella's tipsy tirade too much to correct her.
"Is that her name? Jake just called her the 'hussy'."
"Why would he call her that?"
"She was dancing with another woman's date."
"Well, isn't that the pot calling the kettle? After all, he was dancing with you."
"I know! I reminded him of that fact, but he said he didn't care if I wanted to call him a hussy. So I did. He just laughed. It was very funny."
"I guess you had to be there," I noted, dryly.
"Yes, well…umm…that's pretty much it."
"Pretty much? There was more?"
Bella squirmed a bit before nodding. I raised my eyebrow and waited for her to continue.
"She said I shouldn't let you leave here with anyone else."
"Leave with someone else?" Honestly, that was a little insulting. I wasn't aware that Ms. Brandon had such a low opinion of me.
Bella shrugged. "I suppose she figured that someone like the hussy might make a play for you and that you would accept the offer."
"She's not a hussy," I said sternly, "she's an old friend and a colleague of my father's. Her name is Kathleen Snow." I thought for a moment before sighing. "However, I can understand Ms. Brandon's concern. She seems to like you and this," I waved my hand in the small space between us, "is new for me. I hope my dancing with her didn't make you uncomfortable."
"Oh, no, not at all. Don't worry about it." Bella finished her cup of tea. I pushed Rosalie's cup in front of her and indicated she should drink it. She raised the steaming cup to her lips.
"Perhaps I owe you an apology, Bella. I should have been more attentive instead of abandoning you to Jacob Black while I talked business with my grandfather and his friends. If that's the case then I'm sorry."
She looked surprised by my words.
"You were perfectly attentive, Edward. I made it almost all the way through Alice's list and we're sitting here together as the evening winds down. I think that's a win for all concerned."
I smiled at her candor. Wait…almost all the way through?
"What do you mean "almost all the way through," I thought we agreed that you hit all the points made by Ms. Brandon."
"Well, there was another point," she said quietly, looking at her cup.
"Another point?"
She pursed her lips and nodded still not meeting my eyes.
"Do tell, please. I'd hate to disappoint Ms. Brandon. I might very well find myself dressed in a gold lame cocktail dress for our next appearance."
Bella giggled at my silly statement before quieting and speaking so softly I couldn't hear her.
I bent my head closer, "I'm sorry, Bella, I couldn't hear you."
She sighed again, more loudly this time.
"She said I should kiss you."
I froze as I considered her words. The idea of kissing Bella was interesting me much more than it should. Bella seemed to have done as much as she could to hold up her end of our agreement. She came here, looked stunning, made small talk with my family, coworkers and acquainances, and worked hard at making it appear that we were a couple. If anything, it was my dancing with Kathleen that made it seem that Bella and I were nothing more than friends.
Maybe it was time I stepped up.
"Bella?"
She turned to look at me.
BPOV
"Bella?"
I turned at look at Edward. He was staring at me intently. His gaze captured my eyes and the lightheaded feeling I'd been experiencing increased a hundredfold. I felt his right hand travel slowly up my left arm until he gently circled my elbow. He leaned forward minutely and I mirrored his movement involuntarily.
His eyes left mine briefly to flicker down to my lips before returning. My eyes widened as I realized his intent. He moved closer to me, tilting his head slightly. I saw his eyes close and then his lips were on mine. He kissed me softly, chastely. My eyes fluttered closed and I kissed him back. His lips were smooth and warm. My hazy thoughts were suddenly clear and focused on Edward's kiss.
I felt his left hand settle on my hip and I raised my arm to lay my hand on his shoulder. He released my elbow and slid his hand back down to mine, grasping it lightly and squeezing gently. He started the kiss and he ended it, moving back just enough to break contact with me. I sat still, eyes shut for a few more moments. When I opened my eyes, I saw that his were still closed. He leaned his head forward until our foreheads met gently. He took a deep breath and opened his eyes. It was hard to focus on him because our faces were so close together.
Suddenly, I found myself crushed against him. He had reached around me and pulled me close. I felt him kiss my temple before he moved his mouth to my ear.
"You were magnificent tonight, Bella. Thank you," he whispered hoarsely.
My voice was shaky and breathless as I said, "You're welcome."
"It's late. I'll call for the car to come get us."
"Okay."
With a final squeeze he stood and stepped away, taking his phone out of his pocket. I glanced around the room and noticed more than a few people looking in our direction, including his mother and the woman he had been dancing with earlier, Kathleen.
Suddenly, he was in front of me again.
"Come, Bella, the car will be waiting by the time we get our coats." I nodded and reached under the table to retrieve my clutch. Hand in hand we left the ballroom.
- - - - -
Sorry for the delay folks. This chapter is at least 4000 words longer than any of the others. I hope you enjoyed it. Next up a little convo with Angela, a lunch date with Mike and the club's soft opening.
Thanks to my betas, Kristi and Lisa! You ladies rock.
A guy in a tux is a guy in a tux, but seriously, you need to enjoy the pretty that is the model in the tuxedo linked on my profile page. Gah!
If you reviewed the last chapter you've already seen the necklace, since I sent a picture out as a thank you. If you didn't review, shame on you! C'mon…a few words is all I'm asking. The necklace is now posted on my profile page.
Photobucket killed my posting of the underwear that Bella had on under the dress in this chapter. I have no idea why they pulled it – some TOS violation. I have the picture, but have no idea how to show you. Sorry. It is beautiful.
The fandomgivesback (dot) com successfully raised over eighty-five thousand dollars for Alex's Lemonade Stand, a children's cancer charity. Thanks to everyone who participated in any way.