The Harder they Fall

by Ironic Twist

Bella Swan had big dreams that were quashed by reality. Now, a momentary indescretion may cost her the little she has. Or maybe it will be the best mistake she's ever made. Edward Cullen's life is perfect. Well, almost. Perhaps these two can help each other out in an unorthodox way.

33. Giving Thanks

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Chapter 33 – Giving Thanks

I plopped down in the cab and told the driver the address of the precinct where the officers were taking Edward in a shaky voice. I wanted to cry. Every fiber of my being was strung tight and I knew the slightest provocation would send tears streaming down my face, as I guiltily remembered how this all started.

I couldn't help but tease Edward when he started talking fashion in that ridiculous put-on voice. He seemed to see my teasing as a challenge and had the need to prove himself.

And then he was kissing me and it was wonderful.

And then he was doing more than kissing me and it was even better. His hands were in my hair and moving my face to accommodate our positions. Long buried feelings shot through me and I couldn't help but explore a little bit. I ran my hands up his strong arms and across his broad shoulders to clasp them behind his neck. My senses were whirling, spinning out of control. I loved what he was doing to me, what we were doing together. But I was worried about my job. I couldn't help the frustrated moan that escaped my throat.

He became more forward, running his hands down my body, touching my breasts lightly. He dragged me onto his lap and pressed me into his obvious arousal. I gasped and pulled my face away. He used my surprise to his advantage, sucking and kissing his way down my neck, to my partially exposed collarbone.

My concern regarding my job fled, taking worry and confusion with it. There was only one truth right now.

I wanted this man.

I thrust my hands into his incredible hair and directed his mouth to where I wanted it the most. I guided him up towards my ear and he said the sexiest things to me. His words about loving the way I taste sent a shock wave through my body. I could feel my nipples harden and wetness spread between my legs. I may have whimpered.

God! It has been over a year since I'd had sex, but never had it felt like this. I brought his face back to mine and licked his lips, encouraging him to kiss me more. And he did. But then he stopped. He turned his face away, but I was running hot and couldn't let it end, consequences be damned. I assaulted his neck, as he had mine. I kissed along his throat before lightly biting and sucking on his Adam's apple.

He seemed to like that. He pressed me down harder into his rampant cock and I moaned before allowing my hips to move as nature intended. Edward clamped his arms around me, uncomfortably tight, and held me as still as he could. I could still feel his cock, hard and pulsing, through my jeans. I fought against his restraint; I just wanted to move.

"Stop wiggling or you'll embarrass us both," Edward pled in a husky whisper.

He slid me off his lap, and I took a deep breath to try and clear my head. I heard Edward breathing hard beside me, as well.

It was then that I saw them. I had looked up to see if Edward was similarly affected. If his face had any answers to my questions. Instead, my eyes alighted on four figures with cameras visible through the glass windows at the front of the restaurant.

Were they the reason Edward kissed me? No, that couldn't be! He felt something. He wanted me.

Didn't he?

Doubt plagued me. I remembered my earlier concerns. Men like Edward Cullen didn't date women like me. They dated the daughters of society matrons, celebutants and members of the glitterati. He found me attractive, I knew that. "God you're gorgeous," he'd said just minutes ago. Were my looks enough for him to want to bed me, even if we weren't together in any real sense?

Deciding to err on the side that wouldn't leave me humiliated if I were wrong I said, "We gave them quite a show."

Edward's head snapped up and his eyes shot to the glass. I watched as his features darkened. Before I knew it, he was yelling for the check and dragging me from the restaurant so quickly I stumbled.

Why? Why was he so angry? He wanted our relationship to be public, didn't he? Unless…unless there was someone else. Another girl? Someone he was interested in? Someone he was afraid would see the pictures? I suddenly felt sick.

Edward took a swing at the nearest photographer and the man spun around from the force of it. Two of the uninjured men bolted while the third squared off with Edward, attempting to defend his friend.

"Edward!" I yelled, trying to pull him away, but he shook me off.

I tried the photographer instead, "What are you stupid? Run!" The guy looked at me before turning and running after his already fleeing friends.

Then the cops were there. They separated Edward and the photographer, but Edward attempted to hit the guy again. Then everything started moving too fast. Edward was in handcuffs and he was being shoved into the squad car. He tried to give me cab fare, but the cop stopped him. Then the officer trying to push Edward into the car handed me his wallet and I took $20 so I could go to the police station.

Once the squad car door was closed I asked the remaining officer which precinct Edward was going to. He told me, and I called a cab. It only took a few minutes for a car to show up, but before it did I heard the officer offer to call the photographer an ambulance. He refused.

I arrived at the station right before Edward and the arresting officers. The desk sergeant directed me to a waiting area and said he'd have more information after Edward was processed. I'd been waiting about a half hour when the photographer Edward had assaulted and the one who had stayed with him the longest arrived. They looked at me smugly before being led back, out of sight.

It was the look that did it. Silent tears began running down my cheeks. No matter the reason for Edward getting so angry, if he was interested in another girl or not, I didn't want him to be here anymore. I wanted to bail him out and take him home.

Bail! I had no money for bail. I wasn't even sure how much money I would need. I had my corporate card, but was sure I couldn't use that for bail money. Would Edward be allowed to bail himself out? Could people do that? I was woefully uninformed.

I dithered for a few moments before deciding to call Jasper. If I could use my corporate card then we had no problem. If not, maybe he knew if Edward would be allowed to bail himself out. If that wasn't possible I hoped he'd come down and bail Edward out.

I glanced at the time and hesitated. It was nearly midnight. Well, I knew Jasper wasn't working tomorrow. I picked Jasper's number out of my phone book. He answered on the second ring.

"Bella?" He was obviously confused by my late-night call.

As soon as I heard his voice I burst into sobs.

"Holy shit! Bella, what's wrong?" Jasper's voice was full of concern, and I thought I could hear Alice in the background.

"J…J…Jasper," I cried, "Edward's been arrested. I'm at the police station."

"What?" His voice was incredulous. He continued before I could answer. "What was he arrested for?"

"He punched a photographer in front of the restaurant we had dinner in."

"Was Edward hurt?"

"No, the police came really quickly. Edward only hit the guy once. He didn't even fall down."

"Is the photographer pressing charges?"

"I think so. He's here at the station, too."

Jasper sighed.

"Jasper, I don't have any money to bail him out. Can I use my corporate card?"

"Don't worry about that Bella. Edward can bail himself out."

Relief flooded through me. I could hear Alice indistinctly in the background.

"Alice wants to know if you want us to come down there?"

"No, I was really only worried about bailing him out. If you're sure he'll be allowed to bail himself out…."

"I'm sure. Believe it or not, it's not the first time Edward's been arrested." There was a tinge of humor to Jasper's voice now.

"Do you have any idea how long this will take?"

"Depends on how busy the station is. Are there a lot of people there?"

I shook my head even though he couldn't see me. "No, it's really quiet here."

"Miss!" My conversation with Jasper was interrupted by the desk sergeant.

"They're calling me, Jasper, I have to go."

"Okay. If you need anything, or just want us to come down there, call me back."

"I will. Thank you."

I disconnected the call before quickly walking to the desk.

"Miss, would you come back for a moment. The officers have a few questions for you."

"Oh. Uh, okay."

The sergeant directed me back. I began to worry. Would I have to admit that Edward hit the guy? Did I need a lawyer? Did Edward? Maybe I should call Jasper back and ask about a lawyer.

When I got into the back room I saw the arresting officer and approached him. He looked up when I got closer and nodded.

"Good evening. I'm Officer Marks. Can I talk to you for a minute?" He indicated the chair next to his desk

I nodded uncertainly.

"You'll be happy to know that both Mr. Stephens and Mr. Jefferson are in custody for attempted grand theft auto, vandalism, destruction of property, disturbing the peace…"

"Wait? What? Who are Mr. Stephens and Mr. Jefferson?"

The cop exhaled loudly.

"Stephens and Jefferson are the photographers who were involved in the altercation outside Sushi Wabi this evening."

"I don't understand."

"Mr. Stephens came in to press assault charges against Mr. Cullen, Mr. Jefferson was here as a witness. While they were here it was discovered that both gentleman had outstanding warrants. They agreed to searches and allowed officers to view the pictures on their cameras."

I blushed hard as I imagined what the pictures from tonight showed. However, I still didn't understand the charges.

"I'm not sure I understand."

"Among the pictures on the cameras were shots of you and Mr. Cullen examining damage to his Aston Martin where it was parked outside, what Mr. Cullen tells us, is your apartment. Further investigation helped us determine that Mr. Stephens and Mr. Jefferson damaged Mr. Cullen's car in an attempt to set off the alarm to lure both he and you outside so they could take pictures of the two of you together."

To say I was shocked was the understatement of the year. The officer continued.

"Mr. Stephens has agreed to not press assault charges on Mr. Cullen in return for Mr. Cullen not pressing charges related to that incident."

"So, Edward can leave?" I held my hope at bay.

"Mr. Cullen is free to go. He's just signing for the return of his personal property."

Relief flowed through me in a deluge. I'm sure it was clear on my face because the officer smiled at me.

"Happy Thanksgiving, Miss."

"Thank you, Officer. Happy Thanksgiving to you, too."

Edward emerged from another door in the back of the room, talking with the other officer who had arrested him tonight. They stopped and shook hands before he looked up and met my gaze. His face was unreadable, and I got to my feet swiftly. Edward approached me silently until he stood just inches away.

He stopped and looked at me, a curious mixture of relief and concern on his face. Before I could stop myself, I shot up on tiptoe and threw my arms around his shoulders. His arms came swiftly around my waist. I buried my head in his shoulder and started crying again. This time in relief.

"Thank you for your cooperation tonight, Mr. Cullen," Officer Marks said. "You are free to go."

I could feel Edward nod farewell.

"Shh," he soothed, patting my back. "Ready?"

I nodded before turning and walking out through the door, followed closely by Edward who pulled out his phone and ordered a cab back to the restaurant where his car was waiting. We rode back to the restaurant in silence.

We quickly got into his car and returned to his apartment. It was after one in the morning, and I could feel weariness overtaking me, but there was something I had to know. I watched as Edward dropped his keys on the small table in the foyer.

"Why…?" I started before he interrupted me.

"Can I ask you a question?"

I nodded cautiously. "Did you only kiss me because you knew the paparazzi were watching?" Edward's voice was rough and his eyes intense. I was surprised by his question. I hadn't seen the photographers until after he'd slid me off his lap.

I shook my head slowly, but emphatically. "I didn't know they were there," I confessed.

Edward exhaled loudly, but his eyes cleared and he looked a little more relaxed.

"Can I ask you a question?"

Edward looked surprised by my request but nodded.

"Why did you get so angry when you saw them there? I thought you wanted people to know we were together. Is…is there someone else?" I shrugged, "A woman you wouldn't want to see us like that?" I couldn't meet his gaze, so was surprised by his response.

"What?" he practically yelled. He wasn't angry, he was…incredulous? "There's not…uh, I…I'm not…. Damn. No, it wasn't anything like that," he continued in a more moderate tone.

"Oh, okay." I considered pushing him for a more thorough answer, but at his admission that there was no one else, the tension that was keeping me standing flowed from me and my exhaustion became overwhelming. I closed my eyes and felt myself sway.

Then Edward was there. He wrapped an arm around my waist and started leading me down the hall towards the guest room. I was barely able to shuffle along with him. Finally, we were in front of the door.

"Bella? Are you going to be okay?"

I nodded silently. Edward looked at me doubtfully before easing his arm from me. I managed to stand unassisted.

"Goodnight," I sighed before turning to the door.

"Goodnight, Bella." I heard Edward's quiet voice behind me.

Taking no time to prepare for bed, I stripped off my clothes and left them where they fell before easing myself, naked, between the sheets and falling immediately into a deep sleep.

I was dreaming that Edward and I were feeding turkeys at a farm when a gentle shake roused me. I groaned and heard a quiet chuckle.

"Bella?"

"Mmmm…?"

"Love? It's time to get up. I'm sorry, but you said the turkey had to go in the oven by nine if we're going to eat at two."

I groaned again. Edward chuckled a little louder this time.

"Bella," his voice took on a singsong quality, "I hate to be an 'I-told-you-so,' but I did offer to have dinner catered."

I chose to ignore that.

"Bella," he said again, less amused this time, "if you don't get up voluntarily I'm going to have to pull you out of the bed."

"Can't…" I mumbled, "…naked." Even stringing those two words together was difficult as sleep tried to reclaim me.

"What?" Edward's voice was strained, and I cracked an eye in an attempt to see what was wrong.

"What what?" I asked, my voice still deep with sleep.

"What did you say?"

"I dunno…" I sighed. Clutching the sheet to my chest I sat up and opened my heavy lids. Edward was staring at me with an odd intensity.

"Edward?" His eyes snapped to mine when I said his name.

"Oh…uh…I have some fruit and toast in the kitchen if you're hungry." The way he said the words, they sounded like a question.

"That'd be great," I admitted. "Let me just throw something on and I'll be right out."

Edward nodded and left the room. I stood and opened my overnight bag, pulling out a clean pair of jeans and a long-sleeved t-shirt. I gathered up the clothes I had scattered around the room last night, folded them up and put them away. I grabbed an elastic for my hair and made my way to the guest bathroom.

I brushed my teeth and combed my hair, pulling it into a high ponytail. I grimaced at the makeup still on my face, but decided that if it waited this long it could stay there until I showered.

Edward was boiling water for my tea when I got to the kitchen. He had laid out some cut fruit and a container of yogurt among the mess that was still there from our preparations last night. I scooped some yogurt and fruit into a bowl and began eating. Edward smiled when he handed me my teacup.

"You look more alert," he said.

"I am. Funny how I'm not used to staying up that late anymore."

He didn't answer, but sat next to me. I had a spoonful of yogurt halfway to my mouth when Edward sighed. It was a significant kind of sound and filled my stomach with butterflies.

"Bella, I wanted to know if we could talk a little more about last night?"

I put my bowl down with a frown before turning to face him.

"Okay," I said slowly. Edward nodded once, but looked away from me. He looked like he had something important to say.

"First, I want to apologize for my behavior. I don't think I ever told you I was sorry for subjecting you to that scene last night."

"It's okay," I started.

"No, it's really not. I didn't treat you with the respect you deserve and that made us…you the subject of those slime balls' never-ending quest for the next titillating story."

I was confused. Was he taking last night back? The kissing, the rest? Did he see it as a mistake in the bright light of day?

"I'm confused," I admitted. "I thought that's what you wanted? If the cameras are focused on our fake relationship then you're free to take a break from having a real one."

Edward grimaced before looking up and staring at me.

"About that," he said. "I just…it's just…." He ran his hand through his hair. A habit I recognized as a sign of him being out of sorts. I was so absorbed in watching him struggle to find the words he wanted, that the buzzer sounding in the foyer scared me. I startled when it went off, dropping my spoon into my bowl.

Slowly, Edward slid off his stool. His eyes didn't leave mine as he walked out of the kitchen. I couldn't turn away from his gaze until the wall blocked our line of sight.

Edward carried on a muffled conversation with the doorman while I washed the bowl I'd eaten breakfast from and finished my tea, before washing the cup. I was loading various dishes and utensils into the dishwasher when an excited Alice scurried into the kitchen.

"Happy Thanksgiving, Bella!" she greeted me, coming over and giving me a hug. She was dressed casually, but had a garment bag in her hands.

"Alice?" I was surprised to see her so early. We weren't expecting guests until noon.

"After last night, I thought you could use a little help getting back on track. Seems I was right," she said, indicating the mess we'd left in the kitchen yesterday.

"I could use help. Thank you."

Alice set to work, cleaning the kitchen while I prepped the turkey and slid it into the oven that Edward had set to preheating earlier this morning. Jasper stuck his head into the kitchen.

"Morning, Bella, thanks for bailing my boy out last night," he said with a smile.

I rolled my eyes at him.

"There were no charges, Jasper, he didn't need me to bail him out."

"So he told me, but it's the thought that counts." He winked. "Edward wants to know which dishes you prefer. He held up two very different plates. I chose one and Jasper went back to help Edward set the table, while Alice and I continued cleaning the kitchen.

Many hands make light work and it was only a short hour later before the four of us were gathered in the now sparkling kitchen talking about what happened last night. Alice and Jasper were laughing, and I had to admit that the incident seemed more comical in the light of day. Jasper mentioned that the altercation made the websites, and Edward rolled his eyes as the ribbing he knew he'd be taking from his brother when Emmett and Rosalie arrived later. I patted him gently on the back in reassurance.

The tabloid sites, as usual, had blown the whole incident out of proportion. According to one report, Edward was currently in county lock up awaiting a bail hearing. Edward buried his face in his hands and let out a load groan. I pulled his hands away from his face and put a finger under his chin to lift his head.

I was really tired from my short night of sleep, and had a busy day planned tomorrow, but felt like I needed to do something. "Do you want to go out tonight?" I asked Edward. "You know, be seen? We can put some of the rumors to rest."

"Ooh," Alice chimed in, "that'll be fun! Can we go to the club tonight?" She turned pleading eyes on Jasper.

Edward looked me over carefully, before shaking his head. "Not tonight," he decided. "You're tired," he insisted before I could protest. He slid his hands up my arms to my shoulder and kneaded the tired muscles there gently. "And, you just had to cook this huge meal today…" He trailed off when I shot him a dirty look. He was not going to comment on this dinner again.

"I'm sorry," he said contritely, leaning over to kiss me lightly on the lips. "Maybe we can go out tomorrow or Saturday," he conceded. "We'll talk about it later."

With that, Alice decided it was time for the two of us to change. She grabbed my hand and pulled me down the hallway to the guest room. I went to shower while Alice used the bedroom to get dressed and do her hair. When I came out she pushed me onto the bed and set to work making up my face, over my protests.

"Alice, I'm perfectly capable of putting on my make up."

"I know you are, but it's more fun this way."

"More fun for who?"

"For me, of course," she answered, in a tone that indicated she thought I was stupid for even asking.

"So," she started, "you and Edward…?"

"Me and Edward, what?" I asked, confused.

"You and Edward are, like, serious? You're finally really dating?"

"What? No?" I was confused by her assumption. "What do you mean 'finally'? And why would you think that?"

"Oh, I just assumed." She seemed embarrassed. "The way you two are together. Do you know how often you two touch each other when you're in a room together? He can't keep his hands off you and you're not much better. And then, when you got upset over his crack about making dinner, he apologized and kissed you. Why would he kiss you if he wasn't really into you?"

"It's just the way we are," I explained. "It's like we're always 'on.' We are trying to fool people into believing we're together. Obviously we're doing a good job, if we're able to fool you."

Alice shot me a look I could only describe as frustrated, and started muttering under her breath, something that sounded like, "The only person you're fooling is yourself."

"I'm sorry, I didn't catch that," I told her with exaggerated politeness.

"You weren't supposed to," she snapped back. Then her eyes softened.

"No one would blame you if you liked him, Bella," she said. "I've worked with him for a couple of years. He's always been nice to me. According to Jasper he's a great guy. And, let's face it, Edward is pretty easy on the eyes."

I didn't like where this conversation was going. "Yeah, well, Jasper also thought I was a gold digging muckraker at one point, so his opinion is suspect."

"Jasper was just worried about his friend." Alice leapt to his defense.

I sighed. "I know. I'm sorry." We were quiet after that. After finishing my makeup Alice started on my hair.

"You're moving this weekend, right?"

"Yeah, tomorrow. I bought a bedroom set. It's at my apartment now, but I have a friend with a pick up coming to help me move it. I have everything packed up, except all my clothes. Maybe I'll ask Edward if I can borrow a few suitcases to make moving everything easier."

Alice was scandalized. "You shouldn't fold up all those clothes! I'll give you a bunch of garment bags. Do not put everything into suitcases." She was adamant.

"Okay, okay. I won't fold everything."

Finally done with dressing and primping, I cleaned the bedroom quickly, putting all my things in the overnight bag and leaving it next to the bed so I'd have nothing to do but grab the bag when I left later.

We walked back down the hall and through the foyer to where the guys were relaxing in the living room. Alice went right to Jasper and he wrapped his arms around her, complimenting her on her outfit, a suede skirt, tall brown leather boots, crisp white, long-sleeved blouse and a beige, crocheted cardigan.

"Thank you, cowboy," she replied with a wide grin. "You clean up pretty nice yourself." She rose on her tiptoes and he bent down to kiss her.

"You look terrific," Edward said quietly in my ear as he came up behind me and slid his arms around my waist, pulling me against him lightly. I felt a thrill at his words, his actions, his proximity.

"Thank you," I breathed. Holy crow, I was going to need to calm myself down.

"I should check the turkey and wrap up those pears so they're ready to go in the oven when it's time."

"I'll help you." I was saved from trying to figure out how to turn him down by the buzzer in the foyer.

"Go greet your family. I have the pears."

"You sure?" he asked, uncertainly.

"Of course," I replied, the relief in my voice adding verisimilitude to my words.

He smiled at me before heading to the foyer. I turned quickly and made my way to the kitchen. I uncorked a bottle of wine and poured myself a generous glass after noting it was just after twelve.

I was just about to start wrapping bacon around the first pear when people poured into the kitchen. It seemed everyone had arrived together. Before I knew it, I found myself enveloped in Esme's arms.

"Oh, Bella, it's good to see you. I hope you remember our lunch next week." I nodded indicating that I remembered.

"Good! I have so much to tell you about the Literacy Project, but I promised Carlisle that I wouldn't talk business today."

"That's right," Carlisle interrupted. He smiled warmly at me. "Hello, again, Bella," he greeted.

"It's nice to see you, Dr. Cullen."

"Please, Bella, call me Carlisle. You're making me what smells to be a fantastic dinner, no need to stand on formality."

"It's a pleasure, Carlisle," I assured him.

He smiled at me once more before moving off behind Esme.

"Lovely to see you again, Bella," Elizabeth said, approaching me with a smile.

"Thank you, Elizabeth," I answered. "It's wonderful to see you, as well."

"Bella!" First exclaimed, as he took his place at his wife's side. "How are you? My grandson seems to be keeping you all to himself." He turned, "Edward!" First raised his voice as he beckoned Edward over.

"Happy Thanksgiving, First, Grandmother," he said when he arrived.

"Happy Thanksgiving, dear," Elizabeth responded.

"You've been hiding this gem from us, Edward. You need to bring her around for dinner. Next week. I insist."

"We'll have a look at our schedules," Edward assured his grandfather, shooting me a conspiratorial look.

"I get her Tuesday," Esme called over.

"I guess I'll take Friday, then," Rose chimed in as she entered the kitchen, EJ balanced on her hip. She was followed by Emmett, who was carrying a cake box. Rose leaned in to kiss my cheek. "You'll need a drink by Friday," she whispered, "if you're dining with both Esme and First this week."

I laughed at her before bending to kiss EJ's head. I straightened up and caught sight of Edward watching me greet his family. He seemed pleased by my performance. Honestly, though, it didn't feel like a show at all. Edward's family was very easy to like.

Emmett slid his free arm around my shoulder and kissed me loudly on the cheek before stuffing the cake box in my hands. "Not sure where you need to put this," he said.

"Umm, what is it?"

He chuckled. "It's a special dessert for Edward. It's got some fruit on it."

"Could you stick in the fridge?"

"Sure," Emmett moved off to stash the cake before Esme returned.

"Bella, everything smells wonderful! I had all but resigned myself to a catered meal this year." I shot a look at Edward. He had the grace to look embarrassed.

Esme washed her hands and helped me wrap the pears in the bacon, while Rose fed EJ his lunch and Elizabeth and Alice chatted fashion. The men had gravitated towards the big screen in the great room. I arranged cheese and fruit on a platter and added some crackers to the mix before walking the appetizer into the men.

"Food!" Emmett was enthusiastic about the plate and dove right in. I smiled. It had been a long time since I cooked for anyone. I enjoyed his appreciation.

I turned to go back to the kitchen when Edward caught up to me.

"Thank you," he said quietly, touching me softly on the arm.

I smiled at him. "You're welcome." Before I could walk away Edward leaned over and kissed me lightly on the lips. The kiss wasn't torrid, but lingering and just like that my heart started pounding.

"I'm going to start on the soup," I said when he straightened up.

"Let me know if you need anything," he said, before turning back to join his family and Jasper.

I turned towards the kitchen to find the ladies had joined us. The four of them stood quietly together, having just watched mine and Edward's exchange. Esme and Elizabeth had soft smiles on their faces, while Alice looked smug and Rosalie looked…mad? Her gaze wasn't on me, however, but on Edward's retreating form.

The four women moved into the great room as I returned to the kitchen and began prepping the squash for the soup. I took advantage of the relative solitude to calm my pounding heart and think about what was happening. A quiet voice in my head was offering me warnings, telling me that I needed to be careful. I needed this job, and if I started to fall for Edward I'd get my heart broken when he moved on to a real relationship.

A slightly louder voice was telling me to enjoy it while I could. After all, I was working today. I could enjoy our proximity and supposed intimate relationship with no worries.

It was twenty minutes later when Rose and Alice wandered in and offered to help out. Dinner time was approaching and there was much to do. I put the girls to work putting everything into serving dishes. Edward stopped in and snuck spoonfuls of each dish claiming himself the taste tester before I shooed him out.

I finally pulled the turkey from the oven and covered it with foil to allow the juices to redistribute while the rest of the meal was finished. I called everyone to the table and began serving the soup. Appreciative noises sounded around the room as everyone waited for me to sit.

Once I was seated everyone reached out and held hands with the people next to them. I was between Edward and Jasper. After grace, which was led by Carlisle who sat at the foot of the table, each person took a moment to thank someone at the table for being in their life.

First started, thanking Elizabeth for their many good years together. They shared a sweet kiss before Elizabeth thanked Esme for loving her son. Emmett was surprisingly eloquent, thanking Rosalie for the miracle of their son. Everyone, including me, teared up a little at his heartfelt words. Rosalie broke the heavy mood with a snarky thanks to EJ for reminding her of her priorities. Everyone laughed. Then she took a moment to thank Carlisle for raising her husband to be such a good man.

Esme thanked me for my contribution to the Literacy Project. I flushed with pleasure at her thanks. Carlisle thanked his father for his unwavering support, even when he chose not to follow in his footsteps. Alice and Jasper sweetly thanked one another for simply existing. The truth behind their words rung like a bell.

Then it was my turn. My thoughts had been a bit scrambled as I tried to find something to be thankful for. Gainful employment was tops my list, but I didn't think that this was the place for that conversation. Then inspiration struck. I appreciated the simple honesty of each person's thanks and took my cue from that.

"Thank you, Edward, for inviting me here today. I...I spent last Thanksgiving alone and it was hard. I'm grateful that I'm here today."

I was surprised by the silence and wondered if my words had been inappropriate since everyone else's thanks had been followed by some sort of reaction. I looked up and quickly glanced at each face. In just a second I saw Jasper's frown and Alice's shining eyes. Esme and Carlisle were looking at each other, communicating silently. Rose's eyes were shining, too, but she was looking up and away from the table. Emmett was staring at Edward while First and Elizabeth were looking at me with sympathy.

I turned to look at Edward, since it was his turn next. However, he was looking at me with solemn eyes. He released his grandfather's hand and pulled me into an awkward, but tight hug. It only last a few seconds and then he was gone, offering his thanks to me for orchestrating today's meal and being part of his life.

After the first course, I stood to gather the dirty bowls. Every man in the room stood with me, and I was a little surprised at their formality, but nodded my appreciation for their manners. Edward followed me into the kitchen and helped me put the turkey on a serving platter. He turned and made his way back to the table while I followed, balancing the side dishes.

It only took one more trip to the kitchen to gather the rest of the meal. Soon we were all seated and enjoying dinner. Conversation ebbed and flowed, and the wine was freely poured. Near the end of the meal, Edward made a witty comment about a work competitor which earned a hearty laugh from First and Emmett. He turned to me with a grin on his face, and I reached out to pat his arm.

As soon as I touched him he brought his hand down on mine and laced our fingers together. He moved our clasped hands below the table and rested them on my knee. We sat like that for at least twenty minutes when there was a lull in the conversation.

"Well, gentlemen?" Esme said, with a raised eyebrow. The men let out a collective groan but got good-naturedly to their feet before beginning to collect the dirty plates and serving pieces from the table.

"Let me help…" I started, also rising to my feet.

"Sit down, Bella," Esme said with a note of steel in her voice. "It's a Cullen family tradition. The women cook and serve the meal, but the men clean it up. It's the least they can do."

The guys made surprisingly quick work of the dishes, clearing the table and loading the dishwasher, while hand washing the fine china, while we ladies continued to talk.

"The meal was delicious, Bella. I do believe you missed your calling," Elizabeth said.

"You're too kind. I had a lot of help. Edward…"

"No, no!" Elizabeth insisted, "Never acknowledge their contribution or they'll take all the credit." Esme and Rose joined Elizabeth in laughter while Alice and I smiled politely. A few minutes later the five men returned to the dining room and resumed their seats. Edward laid his arm comfortably over my shoulder. Conversation picked up again, but EJ started to get fussy. Rose sighed loudly and started to get up.

"Rose, sit," Esme insisted. "Let me take him. Maybe you'd like to help, Bella?"

"Of course," I said, rising to my feet.

"It's his naptime. His monitor is in the diaper bag."

"Bella would you get it and a couple of blankets? Then join me in the guest bedroom?"

"Sure." I found the diaper bag and pulled out the monitor and two blankets. Leaving the receiver with Rose in the dining room, I followed Esme down the hall. I opened the door slowly to find her pacing slowly with EJ cuddled in her arms. She was humming softly to him. I set up the monitor and moved my suitcase from the end of the bed to give her more room.

Esme stopped walking and started rocking back and forth slowly. I looked over at them before moving closer and peering at EJ's sleepy face.

"Do you want to put him down?" Esme asked.

"Oh, um…" I hesitated.

"Here, it's easy." She eased the baby into my arms. His eyes widened briefly before his lids slid shut once more. I found myself rocking back and forth, instinctively. Esme laid one blanket down on the bed and indicated the spot with her finger. I bent over and gently laid the baby down. When I slid my hands out from around his tiny form, he sighed and made some sucking movements with his mouth before settling down. Esme gently laid the second blanket over his legs before motioning for me to leave with her.

She closed the door behind me and whispered, "Can I talk to you in the library for a moment?"

I nodded and followed her. Once we were in the library Esme turned to me.

"How old are you, Bella?"

"Twenty-four." Esme nodded.

"My son is twenty-nine." Esme said, matter-of-factly. It was my turn to nod, but I did it uncertainly, not sure of her point.

"What I'm saying Bella, is I harbor no illusions about the nature of your relationship with my son."

"You know…?" How in the world could she know?

"…that you're sleeping with my son? Yes. I'm not really old-fashioned, Bella."

Relief flooded through me, followed by chagrin. She thought I was sleeping with Edward. Of course she thought I was sleeping with Edward. I mean, we'd been photographed practically having sex at a restaurant, a bar and on a dance floor.

"So, there's no need for the elaborate set up. No need to put a suitcase in the guest room or scatter your stuff around the guest bath. Honestly, Bella, such subterfuge doesn't become either of you."

Oh! She thought that Edward and I had gone though the effort to make it look like we weren't sharing a bed when, in reality, we weren't. The ironic nature of her misplaced assurances wasn't lost on me and I giggled nervously.

Esme smile at me. "You're both consenting adults, my dear. Please don't hide the seriousness of your relationship. Since I'm being honest here, I should tell you, I never liked Edward's previous girlfriend, Tanya. I know you've met her."

I clearly recalled both my run-ins with Tanya. I nodded.

"Prior to her, Edward hadn't been serious with any girl in a long time. I'm sure he's told you this."

I nodded again, afraid to say anything for fear that I'd blurt out the truth to this lovely, understanding woman.

Esme sighed. "What I'm trying to say, Bella, is that I like you. We like you. We all like you. First, Elizabeth, Carlisle, Rose, Emmett and myself. Not that we've discussed you in any detail." I raised my eyebrow at her assertion, it sounded like they'd discussed me at length.

Esme had the grace to look abashed at my doubtful look.

"Really, Bella. We'd only talk about you if we didn't like you," she laughed quietly. "The fact that we haven't discussed you should make you feel good. We respect you too much to gossip behind your back."

Screwing up my courage, I replied, "Thank you, Esme, it means a lot to me that all of you respect me." Inside I was dying a little as I considered the charade we were perpetrating and the fact that neither of us really deserved their respect in this regard. I sighed.

"Let's get back. I'm sure Emmett is ready for dessert."

Esme linked her arm though mine and the two of us made our way back to the dining room. Edward took in our embrace. An unidentifiable emotion flitted across his face before he smiled at me and stood to pull out my chair, an action mirrored by his father for Esme.

I shook my head at him. "I'm going to start coffee and get dessert."

"I'll help you," Alice volunteered.

The two of us walked into the kitchen. Alice chattered on about the meal, the fact that she probably gained 10 pounds by eating it and the grief Riley was going to give her tomorrow when she couldn't keep up with him while they did their Black Friday shopping.

I arranged the pumpkin mousse parfaits on a tray. The apple pies were being served from their pie pans, so the only thing left was the cake Emmett and Rose had brought. I pulled out a cake stand and slid the fruit topped cake out of its box. Alice took the cake and one of the pies, I grabbed the parfaits and the other pie and we made our way back to the dining room.

Everyone oohed and aahed appropriately when the desserts were displayed.

"Where'd the cake come from?" Edward asked.

"Emmett and Rose brought it. Emmett said it was for you. I thought it was something special you liked?"

Edward shook his head. "Well, be nice," I told him, "cut it and have some. It was thoughtful of them."

Edward shrugged while eyeing the apple pies regretfully. I made a mental note to save him a slice for later. Once we were all settled and the coffee was poured I encouraged everyone to dig in.

"Don't be shy," I insisted.

Emmett was first to dip a spoon into a parfait, but everyone else was watching Edward. I handed him a knife to cut the cake. He slid the knife into the layers but stopped halfway through, with a perplexed expression on his face.

Someone snorted. I think it was Rose.

"What's the matter, Edward?" I asked quietly, "Just cut it."

"I can't. There's something hard in there."

Jasper laughed and was soon followed by Alice and Emmett. Carlisle had a tolerant smile on his face, but Esme looked resigned. Edward spun the cake around and tried cutting it from the other side. He pulled the knife back, frustrated, when he again met some obstacle.

Annoyance flickered over Edward's face, followed by understanding.

"You've got to be kidding me," he muttered.

To my horror Edward grabbed his fork and started digging into the cake. Loud laughter sounded from all around the table. After a few moments, Edward stuck his fingers into the mangled confection and pulled out…a file.

Emmett was laughing so hard, tears were pouring from his eyes.

"I knew it was too good to be true," Edward muttered.

Honestly, even I had been surprised by the lack of discussion regarding last night's events. I assumed that no one wanted to ruin Thanksgiving by getting into a discussion regarding Edward's short incarceration, but it seems I was wrong.

Esme sighed in exasperation. "Really, Edward, what possessed you to punch that man? People will think you weren't raised to have manners."

Her serious question set everyone off again. Even First and Elizabeth seemed to be in on the joke. Emmett and Jasper started flinging barbs about how Edward would fare poorly in prison because he was so pretty. Edward grimaced, but eventually managed to smile at the outrageous things that they were saying.

The ribbing went on for a good ten minutes before Edward finally had enough.

"Okay, okay, I get it. Ha, ha. I'll have you know I was never even put in the holding cell. The jerk…uh, guy I hit was stupid enough to come in to swear out a complaint while there was a bench warrant for his arrest. He's currently cooling his heels, while I'm out here. No charges were pressed."

This seemed to mollify Esme, at least, but the rest of the family wasn't so easily distracted from the story.

"Really, Edward, what did the guy do?" Emmett wanted to know.

"I'd rather not talk about it right now."

Emmett made a face and was about to say something else when Esme interrupted.

"Enough," she said, in a tone that brooked no refusal. "Let's enjoy the lovely desserts Bella went through the trouble of making."

Dishes were passed around, and everyone seemed to enjoy their sweets and coffee. Conversation turned to more conventional topics, but Edward was quiet.

"Are you okay?" I asked, leaning in to whisper in his ear.

He turned to face me. "Yeah," he said, with a small smile, "I should have realized I wasn't going to get away without someone commenting." He looked contrite and I couldn't help myself. I leaned in and pecked him on the lips. His eyes widened in surprise before a genuine smile spread across his face.

After that he was happier, joining in the general conversation and enjoying two slices of pie. Once the meal was finished and the dessert dishes were cleared everyone split up. I found myself on the terrace with Rose and Alice, enjoying a glass of the magnificent wine Edward had picked for today.

We talked about the baby and Rose told us she was hoping for a full night of sleep in the next few months.

"He's sleeping longer and longer at night. Almost six hours on a good night."

"That's great, Rose. You must be relieved."

"Almost as relieved as Emmett," she laughed.

I was surprised to think that Emmett would get up at night with the baby. Rose didn't work, so I assumed she did all the overnight stuff and said so.

"Oh, I am the one to get up at night. But my erratic sleep schedule has me so tired that Emmett and I don't get much 'quality time' anymore. If you know what I mean." She lifted her eyebrow in a conspiratorial way.

"Oh. OH!" I said, as the bulb finally went off.

"Yeah. It's been awhile."

Alice clucked sympathetically. "I can't imagine how you're surviving," she said. "I had my period last week and was dying for it by the end of four days. How long has it been?"

"For him or me?" Rose asked.

"You, of course," Alice said, as if Emmett's needs were unimportant.

"Two weeks, but before that it was two months."

Alice looked horrorstruck. "I wish I could help," she said, sympathetically, "but I don't know anything about babies. I'd be a wreck if I tried to watch him."

Alice turned to me. "You seem to have a way with EJ, Bella. Maybe you could watch him overnight for them."

I was about to protest when I looked at Rose's face. Her eyes looked hopeful.

"I don't know…" I said slowly.

Rose's face fell.

"I'm sure Esme…" I began again.

"Would you want to have this conversation with my mother-in-law?" Rose asked with a sigh. I remembered the way my face heated when Esme assumed I was sleeping with Edward. No, I wouldn't want to have this conversation with her.

"Well, okay, I guess, if you're sure."

A huge smile broke out over Rose's face. "Really, Bella? Are you sure? Because that would be great. I would really appreciate it."

"Yeah, I'm sure. Just not this weekend, okay?"

"Oh, no. You should come by one day this week, though, and spend some time with him." She sounded so excited I readily agreed.

"Friday? I was only kidding earlier," she said, referring to her offer of a drink on Friday if I spent time during the week with Esme and First, "but maybe you could come to dinner after work? Spend some time with him. He's at his best after his afternoon nap. Then you could stay and help me put him to bed. What do you say?"

All I could think of was how desperate she sounded.

"You should do it, Bella," Alice said.

"Okay. I'll just ask Edward…"

"What? Why?" Rose interrupted. "Why do you have to ask Edward? C'mon, Bella, he really has no claim over what you do on your own time."

"That's true, but you're his family…"

She cut me off. "Edward has no say in who I choose to be friends with, Bella. I hope you won't consider the time we spend together work."

"Never!" I assured her. She smiled.

"You don't need Edward's permission to spend time with your friends, Bella. You can tell him I invited you over, if you really want to, but you don't need to ask him if it's okay."

After that the conversation drifted to other topics. A little while later the three guys came out onto the terrace.

"EJ's up," Emmett said. Rose pushed off the railing and took a step towards the door but he caught her around the waist. "Stay, mom's got him." Rose nodded before settling back against Emmett's broad chest.

Jasper sat down on the chair I used when Edward and I ate breakfast out here. Alice immediately curled up in his lap. He clasped his arms around her and she melted into his chest. Edward sat down in the other chair and beckoned me over, gesturing for me to sit with him.

"Why?" Rose's one word hung in the air.

"Excuse me?" Edward asked politely, though there was no way he didn't hear her.

"Why should she sit on your lap? Who are putting on a show for out here? We," she wiggled her fingers to indicate the six of us on the terrace, "all know about your little charade. Who are you trying to fool?"

"Rose," Emmett said in a warning tone.

Rose pursed her lips and looked away. Before anyone could say anything else, the door slid open and Carlisle and First joined us on the terrace.

"I brought a little after dinner treat," First said, raising the small box of cigars he was holding.

"Stradivarius Churchill?" Emmett asked.

"Yes, indeed, my boy." He held out the box. The men helped themselves to the cigars. I excused myself, asking if I could get anyone anything.

"There's a bottle of Macallan Scotch behind the bar, would you mind bringing it out with a couple of glasses?"

"Certainly," I said. Rose opened her mouth to say something, but closed it after looking at Carlisle and First.

I went inside to get the Scotch. Alice and Rose followed, heading off to find Esme, Elizabeth and EJ. I found the Scotch and the lowball glasses and put everything on a tray before heading back towards the terrace. Edward met me just inside the door.

"I'm sorry about Rose," he said. "I'm not sure what her problem is."

"It's okay, Edward. Don't worry about it." Edward didn't look convinced, but he slid the door open for me and followed me out onto the terrace. First was sitting in the chair previously occupied by Jasper. Jasper and Emmett were now leaning against the railing with Carlisle, enjoying the view.

Edward opened the bottle and poured the Scotch into the five glasses and sat down in the empty chair. Each man took one. I moved to go back inside, but First stopped me.

"Sit with us, Bella." He made a move to get up after a sharp look at his grandson. Appropriately chagrined, Edward bounced to his feet and offered me his chair. I sat down and smiled hesitantly at First.

"How do you like working for my company?" First wanted to know.

"I'm very happy at Cullen," I told him, truthfully. Edward smiled at me. First asked questions about the people I'd met. I mentioned Mrs. Cope and her pending retirement.

"Shelley's leaving?" he asked. "What will you do without her?" First asked, looking at Edward.

"Bella's roommate is an exceptional assistant. Ms. Weber filled in for Mrs. Cope when she was ill earlier this month. I'm confident she'll be able to do the job."

"Will you expand your role at Cullen, then, Bella? Perhaps take Ms. Weber's job?"

"It's unlikely, First. I'm returning to school after the New Year and won't be available every day.

"Back to school? Good for you! What are you studying?"

"I'm going to go back for my teaching certificate," I started.

"You're already enrolled?" Edward interrupted me.

"No, I have an appointment to meet with the head of the Post Baccalaureate Teaching Program the week after next. Why?"

"You…you never mentioned it. I'm just surprised."

"Oh, well, it won't interfere with my work. Don't worry."

Edward looked as if he'd like to say more, but he glanced around at the other men gathered on the terrace and seemed to think better of it.

Rose came out a little while later and told Emmett they needed to leave. "I want to get home early enough to put EJ down at his usual time." Emmett quickly agreed and the two made their way back inside. We all followed a few minutes later to say good bye.

Rose pulled me into a tight hug and told me to call her on Thursday to confirm a time for our get together on Friday. I noticed she didn't say goodbye to Edward. First and Elizabeth left a little while later, quickly followed by Esme and Carlisle.

"I'll call you on Monday, Bella and we can make plans for lunch on Tuesday. I have so much to tell you."

Then it was just the four of us, once again. The easy camaraderie Jasper, Alice, Edward and I shared earlier seemed to be strained by Rose's earlier comments.

Edward and Jasper talked business while Alice and I finished the last of the straightening up.

"Are you ready to go?" Jasper asked Alice. Alice nodded before turning to me.

"Would you like a ride home, Bella? Save you the cab fare?"

I glanced at Edward, who was looking at Alice with a frown on his face. He didn't say anything, though, so I accepted Alice's offer. Edward went to get my suitcase.

"Thank you for the invitation," I said to Edward as I put on my coat. He rolled his eyes.

"Thank you, Bella, for cooking the meal. Don't tell my mother, but I think it was the best Thanksgiving feast I've ever had."

His words made me feel good.

"I'll call you," he said, "about going to the club this weekend? I think you're right. We should probably be seen out together more often."

I didn't remember saying those exact words, but let it go.

"Well, goodnight," I said.

"Goodnight." He face was very close to mine and I was sure he was going to kiss me. Just before I decided to close my eyes, Edward glanced over my shoulder at Alice and Jasper and pulled back to a less intimate distance.

I picked up my suitcase as the elevator door opened. Jasper held the door so Alice and I could board before him. He said a quiet farewell to Edward before getting on the elevator himself. I looked at Edward only to find him staring at me. I offered a small smile, but his expression didn't change as the door closed and we started to descend.

...

I started a blog. It's pathetic right now, but in a few days I'll have all my THTF pictures posted there and then it will be awesome! Check it out at:

http : / ironictwistisntitironic(dot)blogspot(dot)com/

...

OK, people, so I have a new goal. Over a year ago, I read a story that told Alice's history. It was fantastic. So detailed. Every bit of it corresponded to what we know about Alice from the canon series. I've searched for it since then, but couldn't remember the title. I figured it was pulled.

Then I was pimping some fade to black scenes from BD to a friend. I pulled up the author's profile at my friend's request and lo and behold, there was the Alice fic. It is called Seeking the Unknown and it was written by nightdancers.

It's T-rated but it isn't a happy, fluffy fic. Alice's life, prior to Jasper, wasn't a happy, fluffy one, after all. It's all there. The sister, the visions, the asylum, James, the vampire who changed her, her search for Jasper, their budding relationship and their joining the Cullens; all the tiny details you remember from the canon series.

So, my goal is to convince you people to read that story. If you have the slightest interest in Alice's history, this story is for you. You will cry. I promise. You will be overjoyed. I promise. The fic is complete over a year already and runs about 30 chapters. It will be time well spent.

If you read it, please let nightdancers know that I rec'ed it. She hasn't posted anything new in months and I'm a huge fan. Her fade to black scenes from BD are also the best I've ever read. Every detail corresponds perfectly. They are called Isle Esme, The Second Night and Practice Makes Perfect. Hot as hell and very fast reads. I actually printed them out and stuck them in the corresponding places in my BD copy.

I'm thinking about creating an 'outtake' posting for THTF. It would include the two smut chapters (Christmas and Valentine's Day) as well as the wrong turn ending for chapter 27 and the conversation between Jasper and Edward where Edward says, "_ _ _!" If you put me on author alert you'll know when I post the tidbits. Any new tidbits would go there as well.

A few people have suggested I offer myself up for The Fandom Gives Back. I posted a note on my Twilighted thread about it. (Page 69 of the thread.) Please stop by and let me know what you think. Thank you.

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

...

Next up! Moving day!

/End epic AN