This one goes out to all the silent readers. You know who you are. You put the story, or me, on alert but don't say a word. I'm guessing you like it, why put it on alert otherwise? At least, I hope this is the case. Thank you for your support!

Thanks to Kristi and Lisa, for their beta tricks.

Chapter 25 -- Drunken Tramps and Sadie Hawkins

APOV

When Jasper and I finished eating and returned to Edward's guest bedroom we both were a little off. I sat on the edge of the bed and watched Jasper pace. I knew what was bothering me, but wanted to hear Jasper's thoughts before I said anything. Unfortunately, he wasn't very forthcoming and I didn't know him well enough to get a good read.

"So, they seemed…comfortable." There, that was pretty noncommittal.

"Too comfortable." Hm, it seems Jasper didn't approve.

"You don't approve?"

"It's not my place to approve or disapprove, really; they're both adults. I'm just a little worried about Bella." Jasper sat next to me with a short sigh.

"Why?"

Jasper hesitated, his beautiful lips twisted into a grimace. He shook his head and sighed.

"Edward doesn't do girlfriends," he started.

"I thought that they had an arrangement, a professional agreement."

Jasper cocked his eyebrow at me, calling me on my bullshit. "Did that look professional to you?"

"No," I agreed. "That looked affectionate and real."

"And that's what has me worried. Like I said, Edward doesn't do girlfriends."

"He was in a long-term relationship with Tanya Denali."

Jasper snorted. "The relationship he had with Tanya was more professional than the one I see him developing with Bella. They were never close. They met each other's social and," he cleared his throat, "physical needs. I doubt Tanya was in love. I know Edward wasn't."

I nodded, encouraging Jasper to continue.

"Edward is one of my best friends, and I cannot figure out why there's a disconnect when it comes to women. His parents are wonderful—an example of fidelity, love and mutual respect. Emmett and Rosalie have a wonderful relationship. Edward's had nothing but good examples around him.

"Maybe it's because he doesn't value things he doesn't have to work for. In high school and in college Edward was the guy girls left their long-term boyfriends for. They'd give up nice guys for the chance to be treated like shit by Edward for a week or two. He was the guy girls would cry themselves to sleep over."

"I can't imagine Edward treating a woman like shit, Jasper."

"Maybe I'm overstating things. Edward was never one to worry about calling a girl. Sure, when he'd take one out to dinner, he'd pull out her chair. He's great at small talk, but if something more interesting came along she'd be out of his mind in no time. It wouldn't occur to him to call a girl to see how she was doing. After two or three weeks of sex and his polite indifference they'd invariably want something more. They'd either request or demand more and he'd break up with them. The ones who managed to maintain their dignity and self-respect would walk away on their own. That never bothered him; there was always another one waiting."

"Maybe he's growing up? Maybe he's ready for something real."

"That's what worries me, Alice. He decides to have a real relationship and he picks the girl who works for him? How fucked up is that? Is he really interested, or is she the forbidden fruit? He can't have her so he wants her. What happens if he gets her? If she falls for him he'll invariably dump her. Not only will she lose her boyfriend, she'll lose her job. Then where will she be?"

Jasper painted a bleak picture. Now I was worried, too. I really liked Bella and would hate to see her hurt.

Jasper sighed again before changing topics. "Why are we talking about them?" he asked with a roguish arch to his brow.

I might not know him well, but I recognized that look. I smiled and leaned into his kiss.

He sank back on the bed, pulling me half over him as he did. I interrupted our kiss with a yawn I couldn't stop.

"How can you still be tired?" Jasper asked with a small laugh.

"There was this guy last night who kept me out really late. He also plied me with drinks all night. I think he was hoping to take advantage of me."

I was only kidding, but a serious look came over Jasper's face.

"You don't believe that, do you, darlin'?"

"Of course not," I quickly reassured him, "I'm a big girl and am perfectly capable of taking care of myself. I guess I just felt safe with you last night and knew it would be okay to let loose a little."

"I'm glad you feel that you can trust me, Alice. That means a lot. I've had some problems with trust lately."

"Why is that?"

Jasper looked at me carefully, gauging, I think, how much he could tell me. I made an effort to keep my eyes focused on his and my face clear.

"I want to tell you, Alice, I do. It's just…."

"It's fine," I assured him, patting his chest. "Some other time." I nestled my head down and listened to his slow heartbeat.

"Thank you, Alice." I felt his lips press into my hair as I yawned again.

"C'mon, let's go back to sleep," he said, sitting up quickly, bringing me with him.

We slid into bed. I turned to face Jasper and he pulled me close to him once again. I laid my head in the crook of his neck.

"Goodnight, Jasper."

"Goodnight, sugar." Lulled by the slow, steady rhythm of his breathing I was quickly asleep.

EPOV

From the angle of the dim, grey light, I knew it was early when I woke. I was strangely comfortable, considering I had fallen asleep on the couch. I turned my head and noticed the television was off. Strange, I'm pretty sure it was on when I started dozing. Bella must have… Bella!

I raised my head quickly and glanced down at the warm weight pressing on me.

Bella.

I tilted my head back and let it rest on the couch's arm once more. This arrangement with Bella was completely out of hand already and it hadn't even been three weeks.

Her behavior demonstrated that this was only a job to her. She hadn't initiated a single contact that I could remember. She responded to my advances as most girlfriends would. Our relationship was a means to an end for her. She wouldn't do anything to jeopardize her position. I briefly considered Emmett's idea--find Bella another position in the company, one where she didn't directly report to me, and date her properly. I winced as I imagined that conversation. "Bella, I really like you, but I can't date you because you work for me. Here's another job, at half your current salary, wanna have dinner?"

That wouldn't work. I considered what we had right now. It wasn't bad. Honestly, it was better than most of the relationships I'd had in my life and it wasn't even real.

I remembered my epiphany last night. I loved her. Did I? I think I did, honestly. When I thought of the words Jasper used when describing his feelings for Charlotte, I knew I felt the same about Bella. The idea of not seeing her was unpleasant. Very unpleasant. But Bella made it clear that she wanted this to be professional. I wondered what she'd do if I confessed my feelings to her.

Would she quit? Unlikely. She needed this job too much. However, she'd probably institute some sort of distance—definitely emotional distance, but she might put physical distance between us, too. The spontaneous displays of affection would come to an end, as well. She would know that they meant more to me than they did to her. She's a nice girl. She wouldn't want to lead me on.

So, it seemed my best chance of having any relationship with her meant maintaining our current fiction. I'd continue to play the smitten boyfriend; it wouldn't be a stretch. And she'd respond to me as a woman in love would, because that's what I paid her to do.

And I'd hope…hope that the fiction we were perpetrating would one day become real.

With that last thought I closed my eyes and made myself comfortable, settling in for a few more hours of sleep with my girlfriend.

BPOV

Bright light poured in the bank of windows facing me, bringing me to wakefulness. I was ridiculously comfortable wrapped in my soft robe and covered with a luxurious blanket. As I became more aware of my surroundings I realized my head was rising and falling gently. I also became aware of one area of discomfort; something hard was poking me in the chest.

Last night came back to me in a rush and I bolted upright, suddenly aware of the position I was in.

I looked at Edward who hadn't awoken despite my fast movements. I glanced around the room as if seeking confirmation that I did just wake up snuggled up with my boss, his um… morning wood poking into me.

Thankfully, no one was here to see this. There's nothing that could possibly explain our compromising position. I carefully slid from between his legs, taking care not to brush his prominent erection. I'd be lying if I said I didn't appreciate what I was seeing, but I didn't think that anything good could come from paying it any of that kind of attention.

When I stood, Edward shift slightly and I froze. His hand traveled down his chest and stomach, as if he was searching for something. He frowned slightly before relaxing and returning to his slumber. I gently pulled the blanket over him and left the room, walking into the kitchen.

A quick glance at the clock told me it was almost 8 AM. I was hungry and decided that I'd try to find something to make for breakfast. Before starting, though, I ran down the hall to see if Jasper and Alice were still here. The door to the library, where Jasper had slept yesterday, was ajar and I could clearly see he was not there. I guess he'd left at some point.

I walked to the room I had shared with Alice and opened the door casually. I stopped in surprise when I came across the still sleeping forms of both Alice and Jasper. I froze as Alice stirred. When she didn't wake, I backed out of the room and carefully shut the door quietly.

I returned to the kitchen and decided I'd make breakfast for everyone. I needed to find out if I had the ingredients for something that would keep easily. I had no idea when everyone would awake.

I quickly found plenty of eggs and a package of bacon. He had a wedge of cheddar and some white cheese I couldn't identify. It smelled good, though and I decided it wouldn't hurt. My last find was an onion.

I quickly diced the bacon and set it in a pan to fry on the stove. I diced the onion and shredded the cheddar and the white cheese. When the bacon was done I sautéed the onion in the grease and cracked the eggs into a large bowl. I mixed in some milk, the cheese and drained bacon. I tossed in the onions. He had a fully stocked spice rack, but I was gratified to find fresh parsley growing in the window over the sink. I chopped the parsley and threw it in before pouring the whole mixture into a casserole dish and setting it in the oven.

I had at least a half hour before it would be done so I decided a shower was in order. I readied the coffeepot and jumped in the shower, pulling my hair up with a rubber band I knew I'd have to cut out later.

While showering, I thought about the task I'd offered to do for Esme. I was glad I jumped right on it Thursday, since I'd had no time to work on it this weekend. I just needed to pretty it up before emailing it to her.

I stepped out of the shower and toweled off before using a small pair of manicure scissors to snip the rubber band out of my hair.

I was just staring at myself in the mirror, contemplating the weekend, when reality started to intrude on my quiet time.

I seriously needed to consider my working arrangement.

I hadn't forgiven Edward, not by a long shot. However, I knew forgiveness was hardly a requisite for working for someone. I hated James and Victoria, yet managed to work with them for over a year.

I think the problem was that I had been snowed by Edward's charm. He was such a nice guy, it seemed. When he had danced with that doctor at the Gala he realized what he was doing was inappropriate and apologized. He hadn't set out to find her and make me look foolish and his actions afterwards more than made up for it.

Friday night, however, he obviously was looking for trouble. My appearance screwed up his game and he got angry when he realized he was trying to play me. A small part of me, that had been quiet for a long time, was a little insulted. He didn't want me.

The saner part of me realized that I'd be little better than the whore he compared me to, had we slept together. A rueful grimace crossed my face. Well, I had slept with him, after all. But he hadn't been looking for a sleeping buddy on Friday night.

I was proud of myself for standing up to his ridiculous attempt to shift the blame for that fiasco. I'd defended myself and learned a lesson at the same time.

Edward Cullen wasn't a nice guy. He was a lethal predator who hid behind genteel camouflage. For the first time I seriously thought about the need to find another position before our arrangement blew up again. He obviously wasn't going to be able to remain celibate for any extended period of time.

I thought back to a time when I had followed celebrity gossip. When the problems I had were so trivial that the comings and goings of various actors and singers were interesting enough to hold my attention.

It was likely that Edward would screw up. I had to decide how I'd handle it when he did. The number one solution, however, seemed to not be in my possible responses. Kicking him to the curb would hurt me a helluva lot more than it would hurt him. This was so frustrating!

A knock on the door startled me.

"Bella?"

"Alice!" I unlocked the door and stepped back, allowing her into the bathroom.

She hugged me. "How are you?" she asked.

I smiled at her genuine concern.

"I'm fine, how are you?"

"Ugh! Better today than yesterday, that's for sure. You're up early."

"Yeah, well, at some point I need to actually go home. This has been nice, but I have a few things I need to get done around my place."

"Tell me about it. I hadn't planned Friday night turning into a weekend!" She trailed off with a dreamy look in her eyes.

"Alice?"

"Mmm?"

"How's Jasper?"

A wide smile appeared on her face.

"Oh, Bella—he's wonderful! You were holding out on me! He's so nice and good looking! Gah! I wasn't expecting the accent and the eyes and the ass. Have you seen that boy's ass? Know what? Don't answer that. And keep your eyes off his ass."

I laughed. It felt good. Alice's giggles joined mine.

A knock interrupted us.

"Alice? Bella?"

Jasper's questioning voice drifted through the door and we both burst out laughing again. Alice opened the door, revealing Jasper's confused face.

"Hey, Jazz," she greeted him sweetly.

"Hey, babe. You know this place has like 15 bathrooms. Did you both really have to use this one?"

"I was just leaving," I told him. "I made a breakfast casserole and coffee if anyone is interested. Should be almost ready."

"Thanks, Bella," they replied in unison. I smiled at Alice and walked back down the hallway to the kitchen.

I checked the casserole. It needed another minute or two so I pulled a few mugs out of the cabinet and set them near the coffeepot before setting the kettle to boil on the stove. I was straining to reach the plates when I felt a hand on my back steadying me.

"Oh!"

"Sorry," Edward apologized, "I didn't mean to startle you. Let me get the plates. It smells wonderful. What did you make?"

I move aside as he reached into the high cabinet easily and pulled down two plates.

"Just a bacon and egg casserole. Um, Jasper and Alice are going to eat with us, too."

"They're still here?"

"Yeah, I was just talking to them in the bathroom."

A confused look came across his face. He obviously didn't know what to make of my statement. I just grinned.

"They'll be right out."

"Oh-kay?" He drew the word out slowly, like it was a question.

Before he could ask, Jasper and Alice walked into the kitchen chatting quietly with one another. I smiled at them. They were both obviously smitten and I couldn't help but be happy for them.

Alice was ready to try out their newfound friendliness.

"Good morning, Edward." She practically sang the greeting.

"Ms. Brandon." Edward nodded, honoring her joking request that he continue to refer to her with the honorific.

"Edward," she said, "I'm standing in your kitchen in bare feet and my slip, I'm pretty sure we're past the Ms. Brandon stage." A big grin spread across her face.

"I think you're right, Alice."

She practically flew across the room and hugged him.

"Thank you for letting us stay. And for dinner last night. It was delicious."

"You're quite welcome." He turned to Jasper. "You, on the other hand, owe me thirty-five bucks."

"Write it down somewhere," Jasper responded absently before making his way over to the coffeepot and pouring two cups. He handed one to Alice.

"Thanks, babe."

I could see Edward's surprise at their casual familiarity. The kettle started to whistle. I grabbed a mug and set about making myself a cup of tea.

"Could you take the casserole out of the oven?" I asked over my shoulder. I stirred sugar into my cup and turned in time to see Edward place the dish on a trivet on the island.

"Let it sit a minute before you cut it. Do you have any fruit?" I opened the fridge before he answered and found strawberries. I pulled the container out and went to the sink to rinse them.

When I walked back to the island Edward had pulled out a huller and a small bowl. We worked together to hull and slice the berries, which were surprisingly juicy for this time of year. We both walked to the sink to rinse our hands while Alice started slicing and serving the casserole.

We all finally settled down and started eating.

"This is terrific, Bella," Jasper said.

"Thanks, I'm not much of a cook, but breakfast I can do."

"It's great," Alice chimed in.

"Very good," Edward added. "Thank you."

"You're welcome."

We ate in silence for a few moments before Edward cleared his throat.

"We should talk about next weekend, since Alice is here. This way we're all on the same page. Friday night is dress casual. Saturday we'll be outside a lot, I think, but the cocktail formal is that night. Sunday is just brunch. We'll check out afterwards so whatever you wear to brunch is what you'll go home in."

I nodded, while Alice looked thoughtful.

"I think you have plenty of clothes for Saturday, Bella. Just pack jeans, boots, a long-sleeved top and that down vest I know Riley slipped you."

"Pack?"

"Yeah, you know, in your suitcase. I have a great black dress for that evening…"

"Wait, why do I have to pack?"

Edward had an alarmed look on his face, while both Alice and Jasper's gazes were locked on me.

"The reunion, Bella," Edward offered. "Remember, I asked you to block out the whole weekend."

"I know, that's not a problem, but why do I need to pack? I'll just keep the clothes at my apartment."

"You booked us a room, didn't you, Bella?" Edward seemed genuinely confused.

"Us…?"

I was interrupted by Jasper.

"Alice, hon, I think we need to go check that thing…." He was pointing vaguely towards the door.

"Yeah," Alice agreed, "let's go check that…thing."

The two bolted. Traitors.

I looked at Edward. He still looked confused.

"What's wrong, Bella? Ms. Weber gave me the room details on Friday. I didn't look too closely, but I assumed you knew...."

"I knew you wanted to stay at the hotel, but I didn't know you expected me to stay with you. I booked you a King, there were no suites available. I'm sorry. There really isn't enough room for both of us to stay."

"I'm sure there's plenty of room, Bella. Hotel Monaco doesn't have any singles."

"But…."

"Bella." Edward was using his 'business voice.'

"Yes?"

"It would look strange if my girlfriend was leaving the hotel each night to go home to sleep. I need you to be okay with this so the weekend will work. Okay?"

"Okay," I said in a small voice. I knew this was a lost argument.

"Okay. So, what's the problem with the room?"

"I didn't know you wanted me to stay. Actually, I didn't know you wanted to stay until Angela told me on Friday. That's why I could only book you…uh, us, the King. All the suites were taken by other people coming to the reunion. The King only has one bed. There's no pull out or anything. There's just not room for both of us to sleep there."

"We can share the bed, Bella." He grinned. "It's got to be bigger than the couch we shared last night."

I flushed a bright red. I could feel the heat on my cheeks. I stared intently at my cup.

Edward chuckled at my discomfort and reached out for my hand, squeezing it gently. "I promise to be a perfect gentleman."

My eyes flickered to his, gauging his sincerity, before returning to the cup in front of me.

"Friday night…" I started. I wasn't exactly sure how to say what I wanted to say, but he interrupted me anyway.

"I said I was sorry, Bella. I really am. I promise I can control myself. You won't be subject to that kind of display again."

He misunderstood me.

"No, I mean, yes, I mean…that's not what worries me." I was all flustered. What was wrong with me? "What if there's someone there you want to, umm…"

"You mean another woman?"

"Well, yes. Friday…"

"Friday was a mistake, Bella. The women, the dancing, the inappropriate display, my intentions and blaming you, it was all a mistake. Especially the blame. Bella, please, I'm sorry. It won't happen again." He sighed heavily. I looked at him, but he had turned his head and was gazing out the window.

I didn't doubt his sincerity, but wondered if he'd truly be able to control himself if another opportunity arose.

He looked back at me with a sad smile. "I can see why you'd be leery about trusting me again, but, other than Friday night, have a given you any reason to doubt me?" Kathleen. "Can't you just forget about Friday night?"

"No." It was hard to admit, but there was no way I could forget. It wasn't in my own best interest to forget. I braced myself for his reaction.

He sighed loudly again and removed his hand from mine.

"If you can't forget it, can you forgive me?"

"I already did, Edward."

"You said you forgive me, but your words today make me think you haven't. Bella, I need to know, can you still do the job I hired you to do? Can you stand by my side and pretend you care about me despite what I did and despite how you really feel?"

I looked at him in shock. I was walking a fine line here. If I couldn't convince him I could act the part I'd be out of work. I reminded myself of my promise earlier. I'd swallow my pride and act the part. I'd embrace the forgiveness I'd freely given him and behave as if nothing untoward had happened.

"Of course, I can, Edward." I looked at him closely. He seemed more pained than the situation required. What was the worst case scenario for him? He'd fire me and hire someone else if I couldn't pull this off.

"Good. Then you'll come this weekend? And stay in my room with me?"

"Yes. There's just one problem. I don't have any luggage to pack. I don't suppose…?"

"I have plenty. We'll find you something before you leave today."

"Okay." I stood and starting clearing the breakfast dishes. Jasper and Alice came back into the kitchen. Alice was once again in her flapper dress. Jasper wore the pants and shirt from his suit the other night, his vest and jacket slung over his shoulder.

"I really need to get home, man. I'm going to call a cab to take me and Alice back to the club to pick up our cars."

"Can you wait an hour so Bella and I can go with you?"

Jasper nodded.

"Alice, I keep my luggage in the hallway closet. Could you go through it with Bella and find the pieces she'll need for the weekend?"

"Sure, Edward. C'mon, Bella, let's go look."

With that, Alice and I headed down the hallway to pick and choose the right luggage from Edward's plentiful selection. Afterward, we brainstormed a way I could get out of the penthouse, since all I had to wear was the unitard from Friday night. An hour later, dressed in the unitard with one of Edward's t-shirts and a pair of baggy sweats over it, the four of us hopped in the cab and took a ride to Club where the three cars had been moved to an isolated part of the lot.

Jasper and Alice shared a sweet kiss and made plans for dinner while Edward spoke briefly with someone from Club security and secured the keys to all three vehicles.

We all said goodbye and I got into Alice's car. She drove me home, chattering the whole time about Jasper. She was definitely hooked on that man. I smiled and responded in all the right places, but was wrestling with a weird feeling inside.

I'd been on my own and so focused on just surviving for so long that I hadn't even considered a relationship, not that any guys were busting down my door. As I listened to Alice, a wistful kind of longing rose up in me. It would be nice to have a boyfriend again. Dates were hardly extravagant back in college, but I fondly remembered pizza and beer while watching a game or sharing popcorn at the movies. Walking in the park, holding hands and kissing. And sex. God, it had been a long time. The Friday night fiasco not withstanding, I hadn't been that close to a man in two years.

Alice helped me liberate the overnight bag from her tiny backseat when we reached my place. She instructed me to pack an outfit for Saturday and promised to have the rest of my things packed and ready to go on Friday. The packed suitcase as well as my outfit for Friday night would be sent to Edward's office, so I could get ready there and we could arrive at the reunion together.

I thanked her for her help and hugged her before heading into my apartment.

I needed to spend some time reviewing the booklist I had compiled for Esme. I also wanted to reread the literature she had given to me at lunch to make sure I was up to snuff on all the requirements. A nice quiet evening before the week began.

- - - - -

Monday morning, I had just gotten out of my lousy shower—I was coming to hate it more and more each day—when my phone started ringing. I glanced at the clock; it was only a few minutes after nine. Who would be calling? I glanced at the caller ID.

"Hello?"

"Hello, Bella. It's Esme Cullen."

"Good morning, Esme, it's good to hear from you. Did you receive my email?"

"Yes, I did and that's what I want to talk to you about. Are you free anytime this week to go over your suggestions?"

"Certainly, what day works best for you?"

"Friday?"

"I'm sorry, Esme, Edward and I have plans for the weekend. We're leaving around lunchtime on Friday. Is there another day?"

"Oh, that's right, the reunion. I hope you enjoy yourself, dear."

"Thank you. I'm sure it will be fun."

"How would tomorrow work instead?"

"Tomorrow's fine."

"Wonderful. Could you come by my office after lunch? Say 1:30?"

"I'll see you then."

"Goodbye, Bella."

- - - - -

Pick up the phone. Pick up the phone. C'mon, Riley, pick up the phone.

"Drunken Tramps R Us…."

"Riley?"

"Well, well, well, if it isn't Drunken Tramp number two."

"Riley?!"

"Yes, Ms. Swan, it's Riley. What can I do for you this morning?" he said with exaggerated formality, especially for I guy I believed just called me a drunken tramp.

"Can I talk to Alice?"

"Ms. Brandon isn't coming in today."

"Where is she?"

"If I were to guess she's under a certain piece of yummy Southerness," he muttered.

"Riley?"

"What?"

"Is something wrong?"

"No. Yes."

I sighed.

"Riley, what's wrong?"

"Bella. Beautiful. Bella. We're friends, aren't we?"

"Of course we're friends, Riley."

"Then why do I have to find out about your drunken nights of debauchery on the internet of all places. Why won't you call me and share?"

I suppressed my sigh and shook my head, rubbing my eyes.

"Riley," I said evenly.

"Yes, Ms. Swan?"

"I'm sorry."

"I don't believe you."

"I'm truly sorry, Riley. The next time there's drunken debauchery you'll be the first to know."

"Promise?"

"I promise."

"Well, okay. I forgive you this time, but the next time I'm ordering your clothes one size too small and telling everyone you're gaining weight."

"Fair enough. Now, can you tell me where Alice is?"

"She's working from 'home' today." I could hear his air quotes. How does he do that?

"She's home?"

"No. She's currently at the home of one Mr. Jasper Whitlock. I believe they've been playing house all weekend."

"Something like that," I muttered under my breath, but Riley's ears picked up the whiff of gossip.

"Bel-la… what do you know? Tell me?"

"There's nothing to tell, Riley. After the club Friday night…"

"Friday night where Alice was seen leaving Stroke of Midnight leaning heavily on the aforementioned Jasper Whitlock?" Riley interrupted.

"Um, yeah. The paparazzi took pictures of that?"

"No. They took pictures of YOU being carried out of the same club by the fuckhot Edward Cullen. Alice was just collateral damage in the pictures."

"Oh."

"You were saying."

"Um, after we left the club we, all four of us, went to Edward's penthouse and spent the weekend."

I swear Riley squealed.

"Okay, Bella, you wouldn't toy with a desperate gay man, would you? I want the details now. Length, girth, general technique… please. You owe me."

I could feel my face heat even though we were only on the phone.

"It's not like that, Riley. I've only known Edward a few weeks. He just wanted to make sure I was okay, since I passed out in the club."

"Mm-hmm." His tone let me know he didn't believe me. "And did you get shitfaced again at his place on Saturday, necessitating you both stay until Sunday?"

"I didn't see Alice on Saturday. Edward and I fell asleep on the couch early Saturday night and didn't get up until Sunday."

"Ooh!" Riley sounded like someone just handed him the cuddliest of kittens.

"You fell asleep all cuddled up on the couch? How sweet!"

"It was sweet." Wait, what the hell was I saying?

"Well, I guess I'll be satisfied with that for now. You're a terrible gossip, Bella. I'm disappointed."

"I'll try to do better next time."

"Do that. So, why are you calling Alice here at the office? I'm sure you could reach her on her cell."

Why didn't I think of that?

"Actually, I have a business emergency. I'm meeting Esme Cullen in her office tomorrow afternoon and I don't know what to wear. I was hoping Alice…"

"Bella. Beautiful. You have plenty of work clothes at that cardboard box you call home. The grey houndstooth skirt with the long-sleeved white top that has the corsage detail will be perfect. Wear black heels and you'll be fine. Classic."

"Thanks, Riley. I thought because you put together an outfit for me for lunch last week…."

"Different circumstances. You're meeting in her office this time. The black and white will be fine."

"Thank you, Riley."

"Anytime, Bella," I heard the other line ring in the office. "Oh, that's Drunken Tramp number one. I need to go. Talk soon, Beautiful. Kiss, kiss."

With that, Riley was gone.

I hung up with my head spinning. Talking to Riley left me dazed.

- - - - -

I was out shopping for food to get me through the week when my phone rang again. Edward's name flashed on the screen.

"Hello."

"Hey, Bella, it's Edward. I want you to come into the office tomorrow afternoon. I'm busy the rest of the week since we're leaving early on Friday and would like to go over a few things before we hit the reunion."

"Oh."

"Is there a problem?"

"Um, I'm meeting Esme tomorrow afternoon. I'll just call her and reschedule."

"No, don't reschedule on my mother. What time can you be here on Friday?"

"As early as you need."

"Why don't you come in at eight? I have some time in the morning. We can talk then. Just show up ready to go, okay?"

"Certainly, Edward. See you Friday. Have a good week."

"Thanks, you too."

- - - - -

My meeting with Esme on Tuesday went well. We talked, in detail, about my reasons for selecting certain books. I also explained how each book met one or more of the stated goals from the literature she had shared with me. I also went into great detail about the needs of her target population.

"Bella, I'm really impressed. You came up with this proposal in just a few days. I can't imagine what you would have been able to put together had you been in on the original planning."

I preened a bit at the compliment.

"Thank you, Esme."

"I have a favor to ask you. Next week, we're having a dinner for people we're hoping will back the Literacy Project. It's Thursday, the 12th. Would you be willing to attend the dinner and perhaps speak about the books you've chosen? I think that hearing it from you will be more impressive. We want our program to be new and different from what's out there. If we can convince people that we are, I'm convinced we'll get the backers we need to provide the funding to get us off the ground. What do you say?"

"What, exactly, would I have to do? Like answer questions?"

"There might be some questions, but I think a PowerPoint highlighting what you told me today will be most convincing. Oh, I know. How about I order copies of all these books and have them on display? That way people can see the materials you'll be talking about."

"That sounds like a great idea, Esme, but I'm not much of a public speaker."

"I'm sure you'll do fine, Bella. Please. I really think that having you there to share your passion will go a long way in convincing these people to loosen their tight fists. Please, Bella. You'll be making such a difference in so many lives."

"Of course, I'll come. I'll speak."

"Wonderful. Is Edward available that evening? Should I give you two tickets?"

"I'll ask him when I see him on Friday."

"Nonsense, dear. Call him now. I'm sure he has a few minutes to talk to you."

I smiled at her. I felt sick. Of course, this is something I would do were I really dating her son, but now I was put in an awkward position. Edward and I had never discussed what would happen if I needed a date. Who would have thought I'd ever be in this position?

I pulled out my phone and hit the speed dial for Edward's cell phone.

"Hello?"

"Hi, Edward, it's… uh, Bella."

"Hi Bella. I thought you were meeting with my mother this afternoon."

"I did, I mean, I am."

"Is something wrong?" There was panic in his voice. I'm sure he was cataloging all the things that could go wrong should I accidently say something to his mother.

"Oh, no, nothing's wrong. She asked me to speak at a dinner she's having for the potential backers of the Literacy Project. It's next Thursday. She wanted to know if you were going to come, too."

Silence.

"Edward?"

I could hear a muffled chuckle.

"Yes?"

"Um, are you going to come?"

"I don't know. I wasn't invited." I could hear the smile in his tone.

Grrr… I think he was enjoying this a little too much.

I sighed. "Would you come with me?"

"Why, Ms. Swan, are you asking me out to dinner?" he asked in a playful voice.

"Yes. Please. I would feel better if you were there. Will you come to the dinner with me next Thursday night?"

"I'll have to ask my girlfriend," he teased.

"I'm sure she's fine with it," I answered him, through clenched teeth, shooting Esme a glance. She was digging through her desk, seemingly oblivious to my embarrassment.

"You know my calendar better than I do. Am I available next Thursday night?"

"Yes, you are."

"Well, then, Ms. Swan, I'd be delighted. Thank you for asking."

"You're welcome," I responded with a decided lack of grace.

He chuckled again.

"What time are you picking me up?" he asked with innocent curiosity.

I exhaled exasperatedly and he laughed loudly.

"Okay," he surrendered, "no more teasing. Next Thursday's fine. We can discuss it more this weekend."

"Okay. Thank you."

"My pleasure. See you Friday."

"See you then. Bye."

"Bye."

I ended the call and turned back to Esme.

"Yes, Edward will join us."

"Wonderful." A huge smile spread across her face. "Here are the tickets," she handed over two small square pieces of cardstock. "All the information is on there. If you show up about a half hour early you can make sure the PowerPoint runs smoothly."

I smiled and nodded as Esme stood.

"It was lovely talking with you, Bella. We'll have to have lunch together again soon."

"I'd like that."

"Maybe the week after Thanksgiving. Leave your availability with my assistant and I'll give you a call."

"I will. Goodbye."

I gathered my things as Esme walked around her desk. When I stood to leave she reached out and hugged me.

"Goodbye, Bella." She smiled at me again as I made my way out of her office. Stopping by her assistant's desk, I pretended to check my calendar and gave her two possible dates for lunch in the week after Thanksgiving.

- - - - -

I spent the remainder of the week working on my PowerPoint and was pretty happy with it by the time Thursday evening rolled around. I also packed my suitcase with the outfit Alice had suggested. The weather report said the weather would be cool over the weekend, so I added a knit cap, gloves and scarf to the down vest, long sleeved shirt and jeans.

I packed enough underwear to cover all eventualities, but ran into a problem when it came to pajamas. The stuff Riley had given me was business related. My usual sleeping clothes consisted of old shorts and holey t-shirts or sweats if the weather was cold.

I went shopping and found two sets of pajamas I thought would be good. They weren't at all inappropriate and were very comfortable. I packed them along with the underwear and went to bed early enough that being at Edward's office by eight wouldn't be a problem.

Riding the bus during rush hour was always uncomfortable, but riding the bus during rush hour along with an overnight bag, purse and laptop was worse. People gave you the major stink eye when you took up too much space. I was very happy to leave the confines of the bus.

I entered the lobby and greeted Felix with a friendly wave, which he returned. I was relieved. We hadn't seen each other since the debacle in Edward's office when he saw me in my bathrobe and Edward with his hair wet. However, despite the crowd, and the line of people at her desk, Lauren was able to spare me a dirty look. I wondered if she greeted Angela the same way.

I hauled my stuff up to Edward's office. Both Angela and Mrs. Cope greeted me when I arrived.

"You can go right in, Ms. Swan, Mr. Cullen is expecting you."

"Thank you, Mrs. Cope."

Edward wasn't at his desk when I went in. I struggled bringing my things to the seating area. I was just about to plop down on the couch when Edward appeared from his dressing room.

"Good morning, Bella," Edward said with a cheery smile.

"Good morning," I replied, making sure my greeting was devoid of any leftover resentment from last weekend.

"I'm glad you're here. I brought some stuff for you to look at."

He pointed to a photo album, which I picked up and opened. Staring at me from the first page was a photo of a younger Emmett, Jasper and Edward. They were dressed casually in jeans and t-shirts and seemed to be at some sort of party.

"You were so young," I marveled.

"That picture was taken almost 10 years ago," Edward explained. "I was 20, Jasper was 21 and Emmett 22. All the pictures in the album are from my fraternity days. I wanted to share them with you before we met everyone tonight. I'm only in touch with a few of them, still, but I wouldn't be surprised if a bunch of them were there.

I nodded. He settled down on the couch and patted the space next to him. I sat down and he settled the book across our laps.

"Oh, did you get your tea?" he asked.

"No, I just walked in and wanted to put my stuff down before getting breakfast."

"You haven't eaten? Let's get something."

Edward stood from his seat and held his hand out to me to help me up. When I stood he didn't let go of my hand, instead using it to lead me back into the reception area.

"Alice called earlier. She's sending someone with the rest of your things around ten," he explained as we walked over to his coffee service.

"Good. My overnight bag is a little full. Hopefully, there's some room in the bigger suitcase to move some of my stuff." Angela caught my eye before glancing at our clasped hands significantly and then back to me. I raised my eyebrow at her and shrugged minutely.

"Do you need another bag? You can go to my place and get another piece of luggage if that will help." He handed me a cup and a tea bag before helping himself to a cup of coffee.

"No, I managed to fit everything. If there's room in the bigger case, great; if not, I'll survive."

Edward nodded. I poured hot water over my tea bag and dropped in a sugar cube.

"You should buy your own set, not that I mind sharing, but then you'll have all the pieces you need when we travel." Once again I caught Angela's expression over Edward's shoulder. Wide-eyed amazement.

I'm glad Edward wasn't looking at me when he said this, because I'm sure my face betrayed my surprise at his mention of more travel. There was nothing I was aware of that required us to travel for the rest of this year. I didn't answer him, so he looked up at me.

"Bella?"

"I'm sorry, what?" I asked innocently, hoping he'd brush off my surprise as distraction.

"Your own set. What do you think?" He held out a tray with small pastries on it.

I selected a small apple Danish. "Um, that's fine. Will we be doing a lot of travel, do you think?"

"Not a lot, but it will be more convenient if you have your own set when we do."

That was the second time he used the word "when," instead of "if." It seemed he really believed we'd be doing some traveling.

"Okay." This wasn't a conversation for now. There'd be time to address it should travel arise in the future.

Edward held out a plate for my Danish and then indicated I should precede him back to his office. I felt his free hand ghost along the small of my back as I walked before him into the office. I glanced back to thank him just in time to catch Mrs. Cope and Angela sharing a look.

Seems we were putting on a show for Angela and Mrs. Cope now, too. Perhaps he was just getting in character for the weekend.

We settled back down on the couch and ate our pastries before reopening the photo album. Edward pointed out various people and mentioned their names and what they were doing now. He talked about some of the highlights of his fraternity years and soon we were laughing about the funny things he had done.

One of the pictures showed Edward with a girl. They were side-by-side leaning against the back of a couch. They were laughing with their faces turned toward one another. Edward's left arm was behind her on the back of the couch and she was leaning into him.

"She's pretty. Who is she?"

Edward frowned at the photograph.

"That's Jessica. We dated for awhile in college."

"You look like you were having a good time."

He nodded, but the frown was still in place.

"Edward?"

"Actually, she might be there this weekend. I think she married one of my frat brothers."

"Will you be uncomfortable with her there?" He seemed upset by the picture.

"Hm? Oh! No. It was a long time ago and we didn't date for long."

We had almost finished leafing through the rest of the pages when Edward's intercom buzzed.

"Mr. Cullen," Mrs. Cope said, when Edward answered, "the gentleman from Ms. Brandon's office is here with Ms. Swan's things."

"Send him right in, please."

A moment later, Riley came through the door. I stood when I realized who he was.

"Bella!" he gushed, putting the suitcase down and draping a white garment bag over the couch.

"Good morning, Riley," I greeted him. He came over and kissed me loudly on the cheek.

"You look good this morning," he complimented me.

"Thank you! I've learned from the best."

"Second best, dear. Let's give credit where credit's due."

The two of us burst into giggles, while Edward watched with an amused expression on his face from where he sat on the couch.

"Riley, I'd like to introduce you to Edward Cullen. Edward, this is Riley. He's Alice's assistant."

Edward rose at my introduction and offered Riley his hand. "It's nice to meet you," he said formally.

Riley clasped Edward's hand and held it.

"And you," Riley replied, staring into Edward's increasingly confused face.

"Okay, Riley, enough," I said, gently disengaging his hand. "I'm sure Alice needs you to get back to work."

Riley rolled his eyes dramatically. "Of course she needs me. She's so wrapped up in her new boy toy it's amazing she can get anything done."

"She and Jasper are hitting it off?"

"Well," he said, conspiratorially, "hitting it, anyway."

I smiled and shook my head at his innuendo.

"Okay, that's enough from you," I said, ushering him to the office door. "Please tell Alice I said thank you."

"I will. You should stop by the office next week. We can steal more money from petty cash and get mani/pedis. What do you say?"

"That's probably a good idea, actually. I have a presentation to put on Thursday. Does Wednesday work for you?"

"Wednesday is fine. Call me and let me know what time you'll be coming so I can fake an emergency."

"Will do."

"Have a nice weekend, Bella. Don't do anything I wouldn't do," he said with a bawdy wink.

"Is there anything you wouldn't do, Riley?"

He laughed at my statement before kissing me once more and saying goodbye to Edward. Edward nodded his farewell with a shocked expression on his face.

I turned to him and smiled innocently. "So where were we?"

"Who was that?"

"Riley? From Alice's office. I know he's brought my things here before."

"I don't think we've ever been introduced." I walked over to the couch and sat back down.

"You should be more friendly to the people who stop by your office. I know he's noticed you."

Edward shot me a puzzled look.

"Don't worry. Riley would never go after another girl's man."

Edward's puzzled look turned to one of alarm and I couldn't fight the laughter bubbling up inside me. He smiled at my merriment.

"It's nice to hear you laugh again."

Embarrassed, I trailed off until only a small smile was left.

We finished looking through the album, Edward explaining some of the pictures, me identifying the people I could.

"Mr. Cullen," Mrs. Cope's voice interrupted, "your 11 o'clock conference call is ready to go through."

"Thank you Mrs. Cope." Edward turned to me. "Bella, why don't you head into the dressing room and take care of your luggage."

I agreed and he helped me move all my bags into the dressing room. I took a few steps in and came to a sudden stop, causing him to bump into me. I hardly felt it as I took in the changes before me.

Along the wall, where his tuxedo used to hang, I could see there had been some construction done. The closets and clothing rack that had previously been there were had been removed. In their place was a vanity table with a large mirror and padded chair. Flanking the vanity were two tall chests, each with six drawers.

"Edward? What's…?"

"Bella, I have to get on that call. Make yourself comfortable. That," he indicated the vanity with a wave of his hand, "is yours. Please use it."

With that he turned on his heel and walked back into his office, closing the door quietly behind him.

- - - - -

I was interviewed by Sue over at the So You Think You Can Write blog. I hope you'll go read it and leave a little comment. Thank you!

www(dot)sytycw(dot)com/?p=2182

With the general witch hunt happening on ffnet I wanted to take a minute to address everyone. If this story suddenly disappears – the story is M-rated, but the outtakes are not – I want you to know that it is also posted on Twilighted. It's up to date there and will continue to be so. Of course, at Twilighted, I cannot guarantee post dates, since every chapter must be read by my validation beta before it goes live, but it's still a good site with many terrific stories.

And, of course, my message board is there. Stop by sometime!

Twilighted(dot)net/forum/viewtopic(dot)php?f=44&t=7258&st=0&sk=t&sd=a

The vanity is pretty. so is the outfit Bella wears to her meeting with Esme. They're on my profile. Enjoy!