A/N Finally, yes I know, I have been quite remiss on updated. RL kicked me in the ass and my betas had RL issues going on too. Thanks to my PTB betas HEAR and Sirenastarot.
Please also note that in the past I have tried to update every week. That kind of updating schedule is pretty grueling to keep up with everything else I have going on so I am going to be updating every other week now. Chapter 20 will be up on or around July 2nd. Chapter 21 will be up on or around July 16th and so on.
And as always, I don't own Twilight.
Chapter Nineteen: Thanksgiving
EPOV
It wasn't a day too soon to have that security fence installed. When Bella texted me about already having calls from the tabloids, I sighed with resignation. We both knew it was going to happen; I just wished we had more time before my life invaded hers. Lauren was really a piece of work. She reminded me so much of the people I hated to associate with in Hollywood. It was incredibly hard to find honest, genuine people there. If you did, more often than not, they were in the unemployment line or looking for a way out.
Getting the fence and security system installed wasn't as difficult as I thought it might be. I didn't even have to pull any punches. When I was nonplussed by any extra charges for same-day installation, they were willing to do just about anything I asked. Personally, I was relieved to not have to throw my name around. I hated doing that, although it did have its advantages from time to time. After making the calls to get the fence and security system installed, I worked on some music for the concert on Friday. I only had my acoustic guitar with me and some of the songs I wanted to play called for an electric. Idly, I considered calling Seth or Marcus to see if they could ship my prized Gibson electric guitar to me, but I was too worried about it being damaged in the mail. That guitar was custom-made and not cheap, even by my standards.
I scrolled through the list of contacts on my phone as I sat on the living room couch. I needed to call in a few favors. I said a quick prayer in hopes that he hadn't changed his number before dialing. I hadn't seen him in years, and it had been awhile since the last time we talked. I genuinely missed his friendship but our lives went in different directions and we grew apart. The phone rang only a few times before a deep but friendly voice answered.
"Hello?"
God, he sounds exactly the same as he did in college. I took a deep breath and tried to rein in my nerves. "Hey Garrett, it's Edward Cullen. How are you doing?"
"Cullen? How the hell are you doing? I haven't heard from you in a long time!" Garrett exclaimed, with a slight southern twang to his voice.
"Yeah, it has been awhile. Things were weird for awhile but I'm doing much better."
"That's a good thing." In typical guy fashion, Garret didn't pry for any additional details about the 'weird'ness. "So to what do I owe the pleasure?" he asked, curious and friendly. I couldn't help but smile. He is always right to the point.
"Well, I was hoping you weren't busy on Friday and felt like jamming with me, like old times." I held my breath and hoped, waiting for his response.
"Jamming, eh? It definitely has been a long time."
"You still play, don't you?" I asked. Last I heard, he had a couple of guys he played with regularly down in Nashville.
"Oh yeah, of course. My boys and I still kick it around down here. You'd like it." Garrett commented.
"You know, Garrett, I probably would," I replied wistfully. "So, you feel up to a trip? Bring your boys with you if you want. I actually need a whole band."
This was perfect. Garrett played bass, but I still needed a drummer, and possibly another guitar player.
"Don't you have a band that tours with you?" he asked, puzzled.
"Err, I did, when I was on tour several months ago before my label dropped me," I said quietly.
There was a moment of silence before Garrett spoke up again. "Oh shit, sorry man. I thought I heard something about that earlier this year."
"Yeah, like I said before, things were weird for awhile."
Garrett thought a moment before answering, humming a bit as he considered his response. "What kind of gig are we talking about here?"
"Just a local bar, small place, nothing fancy."
"Where at?"
"Vermilion, Ohio."
"Where?" Garrett exclaimed.
"Vermilion. It's this small town on the outskirts of Cleveland."
"Edward, what are you doing in Ohio?"
"It's a long story. Perhaps I can fill you in once you get here," I replied hopefully.
"You know, I haven't been to Cleveland in a long time, Edward. I'll be there. I'll check with my boys to see if they can make it up, too."
I let out a breath that I didn't realize I was holding. "Thank you, Garrett. Thank you so much, man. You have no idea how much this means to me. Let me know how you are coming up and if you need any equipment. I only have my acoustic here so I'm going to make some calls to get my hands on a Gibson electric."
Garrett let out a chuckle. "No problem, Edward. It'll be great to jam with you again."
We talked a little bit longer, ironing out the details for the concert. I told Garrett that I would email him the address of the bar as well as clips of some of the music I was going to be performing. Since some of it was not recorded, I would need to give him the chord progressions so he would be able to familiarize himself with what I had in mind. Only a couple of the songs had real strong bass riffs that he would need to know. He was one of the best bassists I knew, so I didn't think he'd have any problems with what I sent him.
As we hung up, both of us looked forward to reuniting in a few days. I reflected on when things were simpler, when Garrett was one of my boys and jamming together was a regular thing. He and I had met in college at freshman orientation. The advisor that was heading the orientation put everyone in groups of two as we went through campus. I was partnered up with Garrett. He was very curious and asked me a million questions as we ignored the advisors walking monologue through the University of Washington's campus. Garrett's insane curiosity started to annoy me until we started talking about music. We discovered we had a lot of things in common, most importantly that we both had a band in high school. After the orientation was over, we swapped phone numbers and agreed to meet up in one of the practice rooms of the music building to jam later in the week.
Our styles meshed easily. We only meant to play for about an hour, but time got away from us as we were immersed in our music. Four hours passed before my phone buzzed with a text message from a girl I was supposed to have met up with thirty minutes prior for burgers. Garrett and I laughed and decided that playing together should become a regular thing. He knew a few people already on campus and within a few weeks, we had a new band formed. We all seemed to get along well. Garrett and I often spent time outside of our rehearsals working on new music. I did most of the song writing, but Garrett could usually come up with a gem. After we had some original music down, we started trying to find gigs. Word had spread about our band, namely from people who had heard our practices in the music building, so it wasn't difficult to find work.
Playing with Garrett and the guys were some of the best times of my life, second to the times I had spent with Bella. After a few months, our band had become quite popular. Not just on campus but across Seattle. Finding a niche in the music scene of post-grunge Seattle was very important. About that time, I started dating a girl named Amy from Seattle University. She kept showing up at our gigs and approached me one night when we were loading Garrett's truck with our equipment. Amy was this incredibly opinionated, liberal girl who shook my foundations to the core only after a few conversations. We started dating shortly after that. It was an intense, fiery relationship. I had dated in high school like any other guy, but she was a horse of a different color from the girls I knew in the small town of Forks.
It was right when the band was hitting its stride that I got bit by the acting bug at UW. After a few plays and a musical, I got offered a spot in a local commercial. I jumped at the opportunity for my first paying acting job. After that, more paying jobs started coming my way. I was introduced to Marcus who really liked my music and my acting. He said he saw real promise with my talents, and I hired him as my manager. Acting started to distract me from the band, much to Garrett and the boys' dismay. I tried to find a balance between the two, but it was difficult and created strife within the band. My main source of support for acting was from Amy and Marcus. Amy encouraged me to pursue my dreams, wherever they led. Marcus agreed, adding that my talent was being wasted in Seattle. My relationship with Amy eventually burned itself about the time the band was on its last legs. I wanted to move on to bigger and better things out in Hollywood, but Garrett and the rest of the guys wanted to remain in Seattle. Amy and I both seemed to realize that our relationship had run its course. It was fun, but we had different goals in life that just weren't going to mesh in the long run. We had chemistry, but our relationship just wasn't it. Definitely not the it I felt in my relationship with Bella. So, it was time for both of us to move on. It was the most amicable break up ever. I ended up dropping out of college in the middle of my sophomore year to venture out to Hollywood with Marcus. Amy continued on at SU, preparing to take on the world.
I was shaken out of my reverie by the sound of a truck pulling up the driveway. Glancing on the clock, I realized that it was the security system installers. I rose quickly from the sofa and greeted them at the door, allowing them to start working on Bella's security system. After the installers got to work, I hopped on Bella's computer to do some searching for equipment and to send Garrett the information he needed. There were a few music stores in the area that may have been able to help me. I hoped some of them had the quality of equipment I was looking to use. Some of these smaller mom and pop stores normally only carried amateur or intermediate quality stuff, which made sense for this area. Why would a small store want to invest in expensive professional grade equipment that didn't move quickly?
A few hours later, I was practically pulling my hair out in frustration. No one in the area had the equipment I needed. Even if I were to purchase it online, it wouldn't arrive on time. There was a large music store about forty minutes from Bella's that was my last resort. It had a small amount of the type of equipment that I wanted. However, I wasn't very optimistic, because it was a franchised chain of stores. I had found in my experience that it was harder to make deals with a corporation. I would probably have to use my name this time to get anything done.
I impatiently waited for the installers to finish. To keep myself occupied, I worked out some chord progressions on a few more songs. My nervousness was showing in the music as the notes and tempo I wrote became increasingly more frantic. Hmm, this may actually sound good. I played through the licks a few more times, adjusting a few notes. Even better. Just as I was finishing, the installers came in the room and said they were done. Once they had shown me the basics of the system, I was rushing them out the door with me fast on their heels.
As I drove, I called Alice to catch up a little before she left for Seattle. She was very happy that Bella and I had worked things out and was ecstatic that Bella was coming home for Christmas. Before I could stop her, she had an itinerary all planned out for the two of them.
"Whoa there, Alice," I said, chuckling.
"What?"
"We aren't going to be in Washington the entire time. Plus, I'm sure the rest of the family will want to spend some time with her, not to mention her boyfriend," I said wryly.
"But-" I swore I heard Alice pouting.
"But, we will be in Seattle for New Years, if you want to put something together. You know, something with you and Jasper, me and Bella, and Emmett and Rosalie."
"Oh my God, that's perfect, Edward!" she squealed. "All the Cullen kids together for the first time in years with their spouses for New Years! I have so many ideas already!"
"Except Bella isn't my wife, Alice," I pointed out.
Alice giggled. "Yet. She's not your wife yet. Don't tell me you haven't thought about it at all."
I couldn't lie to my sister, but I wasn't ready to admit to those thoughts yet. It was way too soon. I quickly changed the subject before she could corner me into admitting anything.
"Anyway, Alice, what time is your flight?"
"Nice avoidance there, Ed-weird-o. My flight leaves at 11pm tonight. Nothing like red-eye flights."
Oh, she did not just go there. "Okay Ali-bear-"
Alice screeched in my ear so loudly I think my eardrums from a year ago heard her. "Do NOT call me Ali-bear, Edward!"
Ah yes, the hated childhood nicknames. I was a dork when I was a kid, hence Alice's nickname for me. I thought the name I came up with for her was cute. It was fun when we were children and it was even more amusing now. Alice hated hers. I could tolerate mine. By this time in my life, I had heard just about every version of Edward possible, like Jerkward, Assward, Dorkward, Shitward, Prickward, so her taunt really didn't bother me.
"Aww, does that bother you, Ali-" I teased.
"EDWARD ANTHONY MASEN CULLEN!" she screeched even louder. I definitely thought I was going to have some hearing loss after that. I started laughing as she continued to spew a diatribe at me, calling into question my bathing habits, intelligence, and overall human decency several different ways. She stopped only when she had to gasp for breath loudly.
"You done, sis?"
"You're an asshole, Edward," she muttered.
"Love you too, Alice."
She sighed, "Yeah, yeah, love you too, Edtard."
"Ooooo, that's a new one," I teased.
Alice huffed and didn't say anything else. I started laughing again, hard enough that tears formed in my eyes. When I caught my breath, Alice spoke again.
"I am really happy for your, Edward. Bella is good for you. She is very beautiful but very smart."
"She is and I'm incredibly lucky," I replied softly.
"I'm just glad that my brother is back," Alice whispered. If I wasn't listening so closely, I would not have heard her.
"Aww, Ali, I've always been here."
"No, you haven't. You were lost, but Bella found you," she insisted gently.
I sighed, knowing Alice was right.
"You're a good sister, Alice. Text me when you land so I know you got there okay."
"Okay, Edward. Have a good night."
"You too, Alice."
Shortly after we hung up, I pulled into the mostly full parking lot of Guitar Center. After I slipped on my Mariner's cap, I strolled into the store and prepared for battle.
The store was incredibly noisy and large. Several high school-aged guys were jamming on guitars around the various displays. Just about every kind of guitar was on display. I saw a sign directing people to the acoustic guitars available. Apparently this store kept their acoustics in a special humidity controlled room. There were other instruments in the store as well. There was a fairly respectable display of drums sets and keyboards as well. A few people were testing out the drum sets too. The energy from everyone jamming and just having fun was amazing. Employees who seemed to actually like their jobs bounced back and forth between customers to answer questions and to keep an eye on anyone testing an instrument to make sure they were not damaged.
A guy who looked slightly older than me approached me as I walked in. He had a name tag on his shirt that stated his name was Cory and that he was the store manager. Perfect.
"Hi, welcome to Guitar Center. Anything I can help you with?" he asked politely.
I studied him for a moment to see how best to approach him with my situation. The manager was almost as tall as I was, but had a larger build. He had a welcoming smile and friendly disposition that was perfect for a salesman.
"Well, Cory, right?" The manager nodded. "I'm in a bit of a jam, and I'm hoping you can help me."
Cory smiled and gestured for me to lead the way further into the store. "I'm sure we can, mister….?"
"Edward, call me Edward." I held out my hand and we shook briefly.
"Okay, I'm sure we can help you, Edward. I'm assuming that if you are here, you need a guitar at the very least."
"Yes, definitely a guitar, but I also need some microphones, a mixing board, amplifiers, speakers, a distortion pedal, and all the cords necessary," I said, ticking each item off on my fingers.
Cory's jaw dropped after I finished my list. Before he could comment, I continued. "Here's the thing, I only need them for one night, this Friday after Thanksgiving. I have my own equipment but it's not here with me."
"Well, Edward, we sell products here, we don't rent them," Cory said slowly. I could sense by the hesitation in his voice that he wanted to help, but he was constrained by the rules of the store and corporation. I rubbed my hands over my face as I tried to come up with a solution that would work for both of us.
"I understand, Cory," I replied diplomatically. "You have bosses to answer to and rules to follow. But, I really don't need to buy anything, which is why I'm hoping we can make a deal."
Cory looked puzzled, his thick eyebrows furrowing together. "I'm not sure what I can do for you, Edward."
I pasted on my most dazzling smile as I turned on the Cullen charm. "Well, I happened to notice when I walked in that you have some autographed guitars on display to sell. If you are able to approve the use of the equipment I need, I'll autograph the guitar I use and whatever else you'd like."
Cory looked very surprised and uncomfortable as he scratched the short, dark brown curls on his head. He fidgeted a few moments as he tried to frame a response. "Edward, please don't take this the wrong way, but those guitars were signed by famous guitarists. Unless I don't recognize you, you aren't famous so your autograph wouldn't bring any extra money in." It was very obvious that he was trying to be as inoffensive as possible while still being honest.
I chuckled at his awkwardness. My disguise was better than I expected. Who would have thought that a plain old ball cap would be all the camouflage I would need? "I can appreciate that, Cory. Whose autograph would you want?"
Cory thought a moment, his long fingers stroking the dark stubble of his chin. "Hmm, probably Slash or Matthew Bellamy or even Edward Cullen."
"Really? Edward Cullen?" Well, that is surprising, but good at the same time.
Cory nodded. "Yeah, he tends to use acoustic guitars more often than electric, but he's a great guitarist and he plays a sweet ass custom Gibson. An autograph of his on any Gibson would be sweet. A lot of us here are fans of his. We were pissed when he was dropped from his label earlier this year."
I had to fight to keep a straight face and not give myself away. It felt pretty awesome to hear someone say something like that about me, especially when he didn't know who I was. It was honest and wasn't full of bullshit or ass-kissing, just the truth.
"Do you have any Gibson's similar to his here?" I asked. I thought I saw a base model of my custom, but I wasn't positive until I got closer to the displays.
"A few," Cory said as he turned to look at the racks of guitars. We walked over to a particular section of wall and pulled off a cherry red Gibson with mother-of-pearl inlays and frets. It was a beautiful guitar. "Since his is a custom job, this isn't exactly the same but it is similar to the base model."
"May I?" I asked, holding my hand out for the guitar.
"Sure." Cory looked curious as he handed me the guitar and plugged me in to the nearest amp.
I pulled a pick out from my back pocket and adjusted the strap of the guitar across my shoulder. Taking a deep breath, I gently strummed the guitar and exhaled as the basic C chord thrummed from the amp at my feet. Cory took a step back and gave me some space to play. I played through some random riffs and chords to warm up my hands and get a feel for the guitar. This guitar may have been very similar to mine, but each guitar feels different and sounds different and reacts differently. As I played, the noise of the store began to fade away. My fingers brought to life one of my older songs and I became immersed in the music. This was why I loved music so much. Everything else faded away, leaving just me. I just was. I wasn't Edward Cullen the musician. I wasn't Carlisle and Esme's son. I wasn't Alice or Emmett's brother. I wasn't Bella's boyfriend. I just was. I was the music. The music was me.
The last strains of the guitar faded away and I opened my eyes. I realized after the fact that I had also been singing softly. Cory stood completely shocked, his face pale. A few other people, mostly teenagers, had gathered around us while I played.
"Mr-Mr. Cullen," Cory stuttered. "I had no idea it was you. We can definitely work something out."
"Edward, please." I smiled warmly at him to try to put him at ease. "It's perfectly okay, Cory. You didn't do anything wrong. I didn't exactly announce who I was when I walked in."
Cory smiled shyly at me, still clearly embarrassed. "Thank you, Edward. Let me call the general manager to let him know what is going on and we'll be able to get you all set up."
"Great, thank you."
Cory went back to the front of the store to make the necessary calls and I continued to play. A few of the teens who had gathered around us took pictures of me with their cell phone cameras. One blond-haired kid plugged into a nearby amp and looked up tentatively for permission to jam with me. I nodded with an encouraging smile. The kid's face lit up like a Christmas tree.
We started to play, nothing in particular, just whatever song came to my mind. I signaled him when I was changing keys so he could follow. The kid liked to shred and would fill the background with incredible riffs. While shredding could hide a lot of technical flaws, this kid seemed to have all the basic techniques down. He had the potential to be a really great guitarist.
We were just finishing a song when Cory returned with a few forms in his hand. Everyone around us clapped, and the kid I was playing with looked like he was on cloud nine. His blue eyes were bright and his face was flushed with excitement. His hands even shook when he unplugged his guitar from the amp.
"You're pretty good, kid," I complemented.
The teen beamed at me, then blushed and stared at his feet nervously. "Thank you, Mr. Cullen," he whispered.
I held out my hand to him. "It's Edward, and you're welcome. It was a lot of fun to jam with you like that. I haven't done that in a long time."
The kid wiped his hand on his jeans before shaking my offered hand. "I'm Mark. It was an honor to play with you, Edward. Thank you," he said in an awed voice.
I smiled at him again, "No problem, Mark. Like I said, it was a lot of fun for me. You've got a lot of great potential; don't ever stop playing."
Mark bobbed his head before quickly shuffling away towards his friends who were chattering up a storm in excitement.
"I think you just made his day," Cory commented as I unplugged the Gibson and popped it against an amp.
"It seems that way. He's a good kid, plays really good too."
Playing with Mark took me back to when I was that age, playing my heart out with stars in my eyes.
"Well, here are the forms we need filled out. Just itemize everything you need, and the particulars of where and when you need it delivered, and when it will be returned. Also, please notate what items you want to autograph and when that will be done. Once everything is written up, I'll fax it into corporate and you'll be all set."
"Great! I have one more favorite to ask of you."
"Yes?"
"Can you keep my visit here and the delivery under wraps?"
Cory looked at me perplexed so I explained further. "I can travel under the media radar here. I'd like to enjoy that as long as I can." I flashed Cory my most friendly, dazzling smile.
If Cory wasn't charmed yet, he was now. "Oh, of course. I understand. That will not be a problem."
I strolled through the store writing down what I wanted on the forms Cory gave me. My thoughts kept going back to Mark and the excitement and fervor he played with. He played with a natural talent and it was infectious. I had new melodies straining through my head now, songs that were youthful and vivacious, taking on the spirit of my new young friend. I couldn't wait to get home and start writing them down. I quickly finished my list and brought it over to Cory at the front of the store. By the time I had finished, most of the crowd had disbursed with only the occasional person looking at me inquisitively.
After a quick goodbye to Cory, I headed home deep in thought about the new songs in my head, the concert, and Thanksgiving. I was worried about how Bella was going to handle the media now that they were on to her. She said that she'd deal with it when it happened, but I still had my concerns.
Once back at home, I scrounged the kitchen for a snack before I started writing down the new melody that formed in my head at the store. I was really excited about how this song was going to turn out. It was so bright and energetic, a nice change from my typical bluesy folkish sound. If I ever got a record deal again, I would love to put it on an album and see what my fans thought of it. Maybe after I'm done with the movie I can see if Marcus can get me a decent record deal.
The rest of the evening passed quietly and pleasantly. I called my parents and talked to them a bit to get them caught up on how things were going in my life. They were disappointed that I wasn't coming home for Thanksgiving but were glad I was coming home for Christmas and bringing Bella. They had heard enough from me over the past several months and after Alice met her on Sunday, she filled Esme's ears with more about my Bella. Esme was quite thrilled that her oldest boy had finally found a nice girl, and she couldn't wait to meet Bella.
Bella came home late in the evening after the bar closed. It was like how things were back when I was first here in the summer. There was something awesome about knowing that Bella was coming home to me. I could definitely get used to it. I wondered if she had a similar feeling about coming home, knowing I was here waiting for her. After showing her the security system, we made dinner together quietly, working in harmony in the kitchen. It was incredible to just spend time together like this, so easy and comfortable.
The next day went much the same. I stayed at home while the fence was installed and Bella went off to work. Once again, it was like Leave It to Beaver but backwards. I was the househusband tending the house while June was off making the bacon.
I shook myself from my odd thoughts as I continued to practice for the concert. Garrett had emailed me back with good news that the group of guys he played with would be able to join him on Friday, and they would be able to bring their own gear. With the gear I was borrowing from Guitar Center, we would be in good shape for the concert. He also said that they would leave early in the morning and would make it to Vermilion in the afternoon. That would give us a few hours to practice and get the mixing board programmed before the concert. Finding a room to practice was a little more interesting. I thought that Bella's living room had enough room if we moved her furniture around.
I got to enjoy another night of sleeping next to my girl. I cherished every one of them knowing I would be leaving again soon. I longed for the day when we were in the right position to not have to part for long periods of time anymore. But I still didn't know how I was going to accomplish that yet.
The next morning, waking up alone was just criminal. I was half tempted to make a citizen's arrest for such behavior. Then my mind went right into the gutter with thoughts of arresting Bella and slapping handcuffs on her, and possibly to her bed, and having my way with her with my nightstick. "Argh, this woman has made me such a perv!" I said to myself as I shuffled out of bed and tried to calm my body down.
Matters weren't helped when I spied Bella in the kitchen in a thin t-shirt and shorts and no bra. I watched her move smoothly from side to side in her kitchen as she cut up apples and put them in a bowl. The house was already starting to smell delicious. My body couldn't decide what it was most hungry for at that moment. After being discovered and exchanging some light teasing, Bella put me to task on the potatoes.
I hadn't cooked this much since I was a kid. I cooked often enough in my apartment and when I was here with Bella, but most of those meals were done within a half hour. I was in the kitchen with Bella for hours, but I was definitely not complaining. I had happy memories like this with my mom growing up. We kids were expected to help Esme prepare the holiday dinners for the family. She felt it made us appreciate all the work that went into creating a meal, especially the way she would make a holiday dinner. When I was a kid, I didn't always appreciate it, but once I was on my own, I enjoyed knowing how to cook and not being solely reliant on take out and ramen noodles.
While we were working, Bella would occasionally brush up against me with an arm or even the side of her breast. Each time, I'd have to think about baseball or Margaret Thatcher naked just to calm down. As soon as Bella mentioned she was going into the shower, I couldn't resist her any longer. Her breasts were calling to me. I suspected that she wasn't wearing a bra and I longed to find out for certain. She took a little convincing, but I knew what her ears did to her and I took full advantage of her weakness.
Later, as we approached her father's home, I almost –almost—regretted thinking with my other brain. My hair was a mess, like I'd just had sex. Normally this wasn't a bad thing, but not such a good thing when the crazy hair was caused by the daughter of the man I was about to visit. A man I hoped wouldn't kill me for lying to him about who I was. I tried not to panic. Bella teasing me wasn't helping.
Knowing the paparazzi were out and about, I kept my eye out for any cars that were following us. The last thing I wanted was for Bella to feel that she couldn't even spend time with her father without the paparazzi breathing down her neck. I thought we were going to luck out, but as I drove through the center of town, I recognized a few people standing by rental cars. Those people were individuals that I had paparazzi run-ins with back in LA. If they saw me, they would try to follow me.. A few of them pulled out after we passed. I sighed and tried not to alert Bella to the development. I would make sure she enjoyed her Thanksgiving with her family without worrying about the damn media.
As soon as we pulled into Chief Swan's driveway, my nerves ratcheted up again. I just about flew out of the car and started to unload the food for dinner. I think Bella and I made enough to feed a small army or maybe just Emmett if he were here. Her father already had the front door open as we walked up the front step. I noticed a few of the cars that followed us pass the house. It would not surprise me if pictures of us ended up online within a few hours. I looked over at Bella, and it did not appear that she noticed the paparazzi.
After we unloaded all of our food, Charlie wrapped Bella in a big hug. From what Bella told me about Charlie, this was not like him. She only confirmed that when she called him out on the unusual hug. He smiled sheepishly. I had a feeling his new girlfriend had something to do with his new affectionate nature. Bella clearly loved the more affectionate side of her father. I really hoped that he'd understand why I used my middle name when we were first introduced, and wouldn't think that I was out to take advantage of Bella.
My stomach dropped to my feet when Charlie turned to me and addressed me by my middle name. I had to set this right and now. Charlie encouraged me a little by allowing me to call him by his given name. I looked over at Bella briefly; I wanted to make sure she was ready for me to tell Charlie who I was as I ran a hand through my hair. She nodded and immediately started talking.
"Er, Dad, I wanted to tell you something," she said tentatively, taking my hand in hers and squeezing it encouragingly. Charlie looked back and forth between us confused.
I needed to be the one to take care of this; it was my issue after all. I cleared my throat and squeezed Bella's hand before speaking. "Bella, let me," I said. "Charlie, I have a confession to make." Charlie's face started turning red. This did not bode well for me.
"Jesus, Bella, you aren't pregnant are you?" Charlie interrupted, his face going from red to purple.
My jaw hit the floor. Bella quickly relieved Charlie of that notion, much to his and my relief. He looked at me for a long, hard moment before finally relaxing and his face returning to a normal, healthy color. After a nod from him, I continued with my explanation.
"Charlie, when we first met, I introduced myself as Anthony Masen. That's actually my middle name. I'm most commonly known as Edward Cullen. My full name is Edward Anthony Masen Cullen." I held my breath as I waited for Charlie's response.
He stared at me with a penetrating expression that made me want to squirm, but I knew that would just make me look dishonorable and weak. I held his gaze and hoped with each passing second that I would pass this test of Charlie's. He asked why I lied about who I was and I explained that it was to protect myself from the media. It was apparent that he did not immediately recognize me because he didn't understand why I would need protection from the media.
Something must have clicked in Charlie's brain because his eyes suddenly widened and he let out a chuckle. "No wonder you looked so familiar. Sue and I just watched Eclipse last night."
I bowed my head slightly and released the breath I had been holding. I knew people watched my movies, otherwise I wouldn't be marketable as an actor, but it just seemed weird to find out that someone I actually knew had watched one of my movies. Shyly, I smiled at Charlie. "I hope you enjoyed it."
"Eh, it was okay," Charlie said gruffly. From an average person, this would tell me that they thought the movie sucked. However, from what Bella had told me about Charlie, this was actually quite a compliment.
"Thank you," I replied simply. I was thrilled that he liked it.
I was amazed that Charlie was taking this so well. As soon as I knew I was going to come clean to Charlie, I was expecting all kinds of crazy questions about my occupation, evil looks about where I was staying –if he even knew-, just anything except this calm acceptance. I wasn't sure if I should be scared or relieved. Bella seemed to be relieved so I was going to follow her lead.
Charlie hurried out of the room when the front door opened. I couldn't believe my good fortune that Charlie seemed to be accepting of who I really was. Quickly, I pulled Bella towards me in a brief hug before releasing her as Charlie's guests walked in the room. A smile the size of which I had never seen grace Charlie's face was plastered there for all to see as he walked in with a slightly familiar, attractive, dark-haired woman. She seemed to be just as happy as Charlie.
The fact that she seemed familiar puzzled me, until I saw who was behind her. A slightly shorter, younger, and much more familiar version of the woman entered the room with her gaze locked on the cell phone in her hand. She looked up at us and froze briefly, doing a double take, then came charging over to me with a huge smile on her face.
What the hell is Seth's cousin doing here?
"Edward? Edward Cullen?" Leah asked as she hugged me. I was too startled to respond and stood stiffly in her friendly embrace. "What are you doing here?"
"L-Leah?" I squeaked. I couldn't have possibly been more surprised in that moment at seeing her here. If I remembered correctly from when I last saw her, she told me she lived out east. Well, Ohio is east alright. Belatedly, I hugged her back and tried to look at Bella out of the corner of my eye, judging her reaction. Everyone was surprised that we knew each other.
"Yeah, it's been awhile hasn't it?" I mumbled. Finally, she let go of me and I pulled Bella a little closer to me. I wanted to make it clear that I was not available.
Leah surprised me again by turning to address Bella directly. "I'm sorry, I just haven't seen Edward in over a year, and I certainly didn't expect to see him in Ohio!"
The situation was incredibly awkward, at least for me. Charlie seemed to enjoy my misery, but he at least introduced me as Bella's boyfriend. At least, I am at the moment. I didn't think Bella would have an issue with the history I had with Leah, but still, I didn't want to assume.
We all talked briefly for a little while, light chit-chat. Sue and Bella seemed to get along very well, which made Charlie happy. His smile couldn't be wiped off for anything. Then the conversation turned to me and how I knew Leah. Thankfully, how I knew her was innocent enough. Sue was thrilled that I was close friends with her nephew, and she even liked my movie too. Bella was still shooting me the occasional questioning glance and I knew I'd have to tell her the whole story tonight. Thankfully, she didn't look pissed.
We eventually made our way to the dining room while Bella started to plate the dishes and bring them out to the table. Charlie sat at the head of the table with Sue to his right and Leah next to Sue. I took the empty spot next to Charlie's left. Charlie and Sue were talking softly to each other and Leah had her face buried in her phone again, fingers rapidly moving on the keyboard. After sending her text, Leah shut her phone and looked over at me curiously. Her large, brown-almost black eyes, appraised me in a friendly manner.
"I never expected to see you in Ohio, Edward."
I chuckled lightly. "Believe me, the sentiment is quite mutual."
Leah smiled and looked down at her phone as it buzzed. She blushed as she flipped it open and read the message before she turned even redder and quickly tapped out a response.
"Who's the guy, Leah?" I teased.
"Um, a guy I'm seeing down at school. We have plans this weekend once I go back."
"That's great, Leah." I said with a warm smile, genuinely happy for her. I had to admit, a part of me was relieved that she was seeing someone. Now I wouldn't have to worry about her trying to see if I was up for some old times. By this time, Sue and Charlie had finished up their conversation and Sue teased Leah about the mystery boyfriend who Leah hadn't managed to bring home to meet her yet. Leah rolled her eyes and we all laughed.
Bella came in with her hands laden with dishes. I felt bad just sitting there while she worked, especially since I helped make the food, but she'd made it clear before that she didn't want any help. Stubborn woman. Charlie caught me staring at Bella and gave me a hard look.
"I don't have to remind you I carry a gun, do I Edward?" he groused.
My head snapped to my left and I stared at Charlie, startled. "Uh, no. No, sir," I replied in a tight voice.
Charlie's moustache started twitching as he held my gaze. I became further concerned when his face started to turn red. I was about to ask him if he was okay when he burst out laughing.
"Oh, Edward, the look on your face was priceless!" he chortled as he slapped the table with enthusiasm. Sue and Leah snickered as I wiped the shock off my face and picked my jaw up from my lap.
I just got punked by Bella's father.
Their laughter was infectious and shortly I was laughing right along with them. Bella came in a few minutes later with the last of the dishes. I got up quickly and pulled her chair out for her. As I sat back down, Charlie gave a barely perceptible nod at my courtesy. He approved. Bella leaned over and thanked me and I kissed the side of her head. I was a little unsure about showing her much affection in front of her father, but I decided to take a chance. Charlie didn't seem to be concerned. I mentally gave myself a fist pump.
Charlie got the dinner started with a very short but nice toast. He definitely didn't seem like the type to be gregarious. For a moment, Bella looked like she was actually going to cry.
Finally, before my stomach decided to let everyone know how empty it was, the food was passed around the table. Bella's turkey looked so delicious. She told me she had a secret recipe of seasoning and spices to rub on the skin and I couldn't wait to try it. As the mashed potatoes made their way around the table, I couldn't help but be a little proud at how light and fluffy they looked. Years of Esme teaching me how to cook paid off well. By the time all the platters had gone by, my plate was packed with all kinds of goodies: turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes with a little bit of gravy, candied sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry relish. There was even a tray of deviled eggs and rolls on the table too. Right as I was getting ready to dig into it, I saw Charlie extend his hand to me. I shot Bella a confused look and she whispered that it was tradition to say what we were thankful for prior to eating. Sadly, I put my fork with its delectable bite on it back on my plate and took Charlie's hand.
Charlie's normally gruff, confident demeanor changed slightly. He actually looked shy. After clearing his throat, he said what he was thankful for this year. As he was finishing, he looked at Sue and held her gaze as the realization of his declaration sunk in. Her face broke into a huge grin and she told Charlie that she loved him too. Both Charlie and Sue were blushing but they looked so incredibly happy. Leah complained about the mushiness which caused Charlie to make a snarky comment in return. All it did was give us kids a visual of Sue and Charlie that none of us really wanted. Bella joined into the fray and voiced her displeasure on hearing about her father's sex life.
That reminded me of the many times over the years that I had accidentally walked in on Esme and Carlisle in the throws of passion. It was bad enough to hear them joke about it, which they would from time to time. It was worse to actually see them doing some of the things they joked about. I mean really, who would think a mother close to fifty years old would still be that flexible? Apparently mine was. No wonder my parents looked so young.
I was saved from thinking about my parents active and healthy sex life by Leah as she finished stating what she was thankful for this year. I hadn't realized that my attention had wandered for that long. Thankfully, I was just in time to hear Bella. If I wasn't paying attention to what she was thankful for, I'd probably be sleeping on the couch the rest of the week. She looked over at me nervously and I squeezed her hand. Whatever she would have to say would be fine.
Bella took a deep breath and spoke softly. "Um, I'm thankful for my family, friends, and the Midnight Sun. I'm thankful for Edward, for his love and trust. My life changed irrefutably the day he walked into my bar. I'm thankful for the future and for great things to come."
As she finished, she gazed at me and I was struck dumb. I couldn't breath. I could only stare into her deep, brown soulful eyes as I held her hand. It meant a great deal to me that she mentioned trust considering it was such a focal point of our very recently resolved problems. I was so hopeful that we really did have a future. We would need that trust when we were away from each other again. I loved this woman so much, and I wasn't ashamed to show it. Charlie must have had enough because he cleared his throat after we got a little too caught up in each other's gaze.
Embarrassed, I blushed and stammered, "Um, yeah, right. Sorry about that." A quick glance at Bella confirmed that she was just as red in the face as I was. We were quite the pair.
Gathering my thoughts, I spoke softly but earnestly. "So anyway, um, I'm thankful for my family, great friends." Leah glanced at me with a soft smile as I spoke. "For Bella, without her I don't know where I'd be right now, for her love and understanding, for being herself, for seeing me as I am, for everything that she is."
When I stopped speaking, no one said a word. I held onto Bella's hand as everyone else released one another's hands. Charlie and Sue were both looking at me strangely and it was a little unnerving. I didn't think I'd said anything bad. The look on Leah's face was encouraging. Bella looked a little shocked but very happy. I was thrilled that I put that look on her face.
Finally, Charlie couldn't take all the touchy-feeliness anymore and broke the mood with his gruff voice. "Okay, enough sappiness. The food is getting cold. Let's eat!"
I returned my attention to my very full and very tasty looking plate. Enthusiastically, I grabbed my fork and dug in. The food was absolutely delicious. So many of these things were standard Thanksgiving staples, but Bella's recipes transformed these typical items into gourmet dishes. The stuffing had some extra ingredient that I wasn't used to that really made it pop. I was in gastronomic heaven. I noticed that I wasn't the only one enjoying the food. Hardly anyone was speaking since they were too busy eating. It reminded me of holiday dinners at home. Esme and Carlisle knew how to pace themselves. All of the kids, especially Emmett, ate more than talked.
As plates started to clear, speech returned to the table. Charlie and Sue complimented Bella several times. Leah's phone buzzed several times throughout the meal as she texted her guy. I personally thought it was rude to do that while we were eating, but she was an adult and most definitely was not my child. I sat back and groaned after eating a second helping of the turkey and mashed potatoes.
"Jesus, Bella," I moaned, "you are way too good of a cook. I'm going to gain way too much weight if I eat too many more of your meals."
Bella blushed and laughed lightly. "You seemed to do well enough when you were here this summer."
"True, but I was also working on the house. It's a little harder to do work like that in the winter, although there are a few indoor projects still to do."
Bella laughed again and took a sip of her water.
"I didn't realize that you were the one working on Bella's house, Edward," Charlie commented.
"Uh, yeah. I was in Ohio for a month taking a bit of a sabbatical from Hollywood and Bella had been so nice to me when I came into town that I offered to work on the house."
Charlie nodded, clearly impressed. "I've seen the improvements you've made to the house. Very nice work. Where does an actor learn construction and home improvement?"
"My mom is an architect who deals a lot in historical preservation. My brother and I used to help out on the job sites. I'm no carpenter, but I can hold my own on most projects."
"What does your father do, Edward?" Sue asked politely.
"He's a doctor at Forks Hospital in Washington."
"Do you have just the one brother?" Charlie asked.
Bella shot her father a dirty look. "Dad, this is not 'Ask Edward Twenty Questions' night!"
Charlie's moustache twitched with a smile and I laughed. "It's okay, Bella. Charlie hasn't really had a good chance to get to know me, the real me, yet. I'd be happy to tell him a little about myself so he knows what kind of character his daughter is associating with."
"Besides saving her from a drunken asshole who attacked her at her bar and working on her house, you mean?" Charlie teased. I got the distinct feeling he liked me already.
"Whatever, Dad," Bella said with a huff.
"Anyway," I continued while picking apart a roll, "I was born in Chicago, but my parents moved out to Washington when I was very small. I'm the oldest of three. My brother, Emmett, plays for the Seattle Mariners-"
"Really?" Charlie asked, suddenly quite interested.
"Yep. My schedule makes it hard to get home to see him play, but I make a point of catching a couple of his games every year."
Charlie's face turned speculative. "I wonder if the Indians will play the Mariners next year. No matter for now. Tell me more about your family."
"Anyway, Emmett plays for the Mariners and loves it. He just got married last year and is still enjoying the novelty. My sister-in-law, Rosalie, loves being a player's wife." I couldn't help but roll my eyes before continuing. "Alice is my baby sister. She is a party planner in Seattle and has quite the thriving business. Next summer she is going to marry my best friends, Jasper. He and I went to college together."
"Where did you go to college?"
"University of Washington, but I never finished. I dropped out during my sophomore year to pursue my music and acting. I'd still like to go back and finish sometime."
"That sounds real nice, Edward. It sounds like you have a really great family," Sue complimented. I liked her already.
I nodded, smiling hugely. I was incredibly lucky with my family. "Yes, they are the best. I've been blessed."
Silverware was finally striking bare plates as we finished our meals. My stomach groaned with how full it was. It had been some time before I had packed away that much food. I hoped I could still manage dessert. There was no way I was turning away homemade apple pie.
"Everyone ready for pie?" Bella asked as she started to get up.
I wanted to be helpful so I got up as well and helped clear plates from the table. Bella smiled and walked into the kitchen to start serving up the pies. I deposited my load of plates and silverware in the sink and quickly rinsed them off.
"Dinner was absolutely delicious, love," I murmured as I came up behind her and wrapped my arms around her. Bella hummed with pleasure and leaned into my chest as she put the knife down on the counter.
"Thank you, Edward. Charlie seems to really like you."
"I hope so. Sue is really nice. Your father has been smiling a lot tonight," I observed, releasing her from my grasp and lightly running my hands up and down her sides. I buried my nose into the back of her neck and wrapped the scent of her hair around me.
"That he has, more than I've seen in a very long time," she agreed, shivering slightly from my caresses.
"Almost done?" I asked softly, as I brushed her hair away from her neck so I could kiss it.
"Yes," Bella breathed. She turned in my arms and placed her hands on my chest. Her thumbs stroked my chest slowly as she looked at me. Her eyes were dark with desire and I could feel my body responding to her. I gently cupped her face in my hands and brushed my lips across hers.
"I love you, sweet Bella," I whispered.
"Love you too, Edward, so much." Bella wasn't happy with the chaste kiss I gave and pulled my head down to kiss me soundly. This definitely would not be helping any condition my body was in. At this rate, I'd have to find an excuse to run off to the bathroom to calm down before returning to the dining room table. Gently, I pushed Bella away a little so I could try to keep my body from getting too excited.
"Bella, I gotta stop. I'm going to embarrass myself if I have to walk back into the dining room with a raging hard on."
Bella giggled and took a step back. "Poor baby. Little Eddie has a mind of his own doesn't he?"
I bit back a retort about 'Little Eddie' and just smiled at her. As I turned to start gathering plates laden with slices of pie, Bella asked the one question I knew had been on her mind most of the evening.
"Edward, you seem very friendly with Leah," she commented idly.
I set the plates that I had in my hand down. "I've known her for several years. I met her through Seth and we've hung out a few times."
She looked away, embarrassed. "I know it's not an issue now, and it's more curiosity now that anything, but how friendly were you with her?"
I couldn't help but laugh a little. "It's okay, Bella. I'd want to know if I was in your position too. Leah and I have always just been friends. There was one night that we both were lonely and ended up having sex, but that's all it was. It was shortly after I had broken up with Tanya and she had just gotten out of a relationship too. She left to go back to school shortly after that. I've seen her several times since then, but we never went that far again. I'm just glad I haven't lost her friendship over it. Thank god Seth doesn't know either. I think he'd be pissed."
"Why?"
"He's kinda protective over her. He may not be upset over it, I'm not sure. I'd rather not find out. They don't have any other cousins so they are like brother and sister a lot of times. Sleeping with her was almost like breaking the guy code of messing around with a friend's sister."
"Oh, okay," Bella said. "Thank you for telling me."
I leaned down and kissed her again. "Of course, love. Whatever you want to know about me, all you have to do is ask. Honesty, remember?"
"I remember," she said with a large smile.
"Hey guys, what are you doing in there?" Charlie hollered from the dining room.
"Nothing, Dad! We're coming right now with the pie!" Bella yelled back, shooting me a sheepish look.
I laughed again as we gathered up the pie plates and walked into the dining room.
-OxOxO-
Moans and groans were heard across the table by everyone as forks came to rest on empty dessert plates.
"Oh, I should not have eaten that second slice of pie," Leah muttered as she rubbed her stomach.
I laughed then groaned as the movement made my equally overstuffed stomach complain. Bella squeezed my hand sympathetically as she rose to gather our dishes. Charlie looked like he was asleep as he rested his head on the back of his chair. The only reason I suspected he wasn't was because Sue was talking animatedly to him.
I got up to help Bella clean up. She was just starting to load the dishwasher when I brought in the last of the dishes. After depositing the dishes in the sink, I ran my hands across her shoulders and rubbed them gently.
"Mmmm, that feels good, baby," she moaned. Hearing her moan did things to my body. I leaned into her, pushing my pelvis into her backside. "So does that," she added huskily.
I didn't say a word; I just merely smiled and kept massaging her shoulders. Bella turned to face me so I dropped my hands to her hips and gave her a quick peck on the lips. She shook her head and pulled my head down to kiss me more thoroughly. I could still taste apple on her lips from the slice of pie she ate. It was heavenly. Bella was really tempting my restraint as she pushed her body into mine. I could feel every inch of her. There was no doubt she could feel my very prominent erection poking her stomach. I continued to kiss her and touch her for a few minutes longer before I really truly had to stop. I didn't want to be sporting a huge hard-on in front of her father, nor did I want to ravish her right on the kitchen counter. Okay, well I really did, but not when we could get caught. Slowly, painfully, I pulled away from her.
"What can I help you with in here?" I asked softly.
Bella looked down at me and smirked. "Are you sure I shouldn't be the one asking if you need help with anything?"
I rolled my eyes. Bella was becoming more comfortable with innuendo as she got comfortable with our relationship. I liked it.
She looked around the kitchen surveying the mess before us. "Um, you can probably just start packing up the leftovers. There are containers in the cabinet by the microwave."
I started to turn to get the containers when Bella wrapped her arms around my neck and refused to let me go. "The food can wait just a few more minutes," she said softly with a sly smile.
I grinned and pulled Bella closer to me. "Then what shall we do?" I asked, nuzzling her neck.
"This is good," she whispered, her breath ghosting past my ear, making me shiver. "Just saving moments for when you leave again…"
I pulled my face back and gazed at her sadly, "Love, we'll see each other again. You'll be coming out to LA in just a few weeks. It'll be much easier than our first separation."
"I know," Bella replied dejectedly. "But I'm still going to miss you."
I drew Bella into a tight embrace. "I'm going to miss you too, but I'm not leaving for two days. So, let's enjoy the time we have left."
She melted into my arms and held me just as close as I was holding her. I stroked her soft, strawberry scented hair and relished the moment. After a few minutes of holding one another, Bella finally lowered her hands and pulled out of my grasp. She looked up at me with happy, but watery, chestnut eyes.
"Okay, Cullen, let's get this finished up."
The next twenty minutes went by quickly as we returned Charlie's kitchen and dining room into their pre-Thanksgiving glory. When we were done, we walked outside to the front porch and found Charlie and Sue sitting on a porch swing. They didn't have any jackets but were wrapped up snuggly together in a thick wool blanket.
"Well, aren't you two cozy?" Bella teased with a light laugh. "I should take a picture." She dug around in her pockets for her cell phone.
As she started taking photos of Sue and Charlie, I looked around the yard and the street looking for the light reflection from camera lenses. I tried to be as careful but unobvious as possible so I wouldn't alert Bella. I didn't see any, but I made sure I stood between Bella and the street just to be safe. Charlie caught me looking around and noted my stance with Bella. He quirked an eyebrow at me, and I shook my head in response. I would explain what was going on, but not in front of the ladies.
"Where's Leah?" I asked, as Charlie continued to squirm while Bella took more pictures.
"I think she's in the living room texting her boyfriend or whatever he is," Sue said.
I nodded and did another sweep of the yard. Bella noticed my gaze this time and looked around as well.
"Is something wrong, Edward?" she asked.
"No, love, just looking around," I replied, cringing at misleading her again.
Later tonight when we were home, I'd tell her what I saw, but for now, she would enjoy her Thanksgiving. Charlie looked at me pointedly, knowing I lied to his daughter. I hung my head slightly as I pulled Bella close to me. Charlie seemed to understand and nodded his head.
"Hon, it's getting chilly outside. Let's go inside and spend some time with the kids," Charlie said to Sue as he started to gather their blanket.
Sue nodded and walked with Bella and me inside. Leah was lying down on the couch on her back with her cell phone in her hand, texting away. She sat up as we walked in and smiled shyly.
"Hey guys, come sit over here with me," Leah offered, patting the seats next to her.
I looked at Bella briefly to see if she had a problem with it. Apparently, I worried too much because Bella smiled without any hint of falseness and sat next to Leah. I followed and sat on the other side of Bella. Sue and Charlie sat on the other side of the room.
"How long have you guys been together?" Leah asked after we were all settled.
"About three months," Bella said.
"That's awesome! I'm so happy for you guys, really."
"Thanks," Bella and I said simultaneously.
"Seriously, Edward so deserves a good woman, Bella. His ex-girlfriend was such a piece of work."
Bella rolled her eyes. "Oh, you don't have to tell me," she replied with a laugh. "I learned first hand how crazy she is."
Leah's eyes widened. "Oh really? What happened?"
Charlie took that moment to pull me from the girls' conversation when he asked me to help him with something in his garage. I got up quickly as Bella got into the story about Tanya's interview and all the drama that ensued.
As Charlie and I walked into the garage, I had a feeling that he really didn't need help with anything but wanted a private place to chat. He stopped at the back of the garage and began fidgeting with a tackle box that was sitting on a work bench. I waited for him to speak, running my hands through my hair nervously.
"Edward, you're a nice kid," he began.
"Thank you, Charlie."
"But you have me concerned."
My heart raced a little. "Oh?"
"I noticed that it seemed like you were looking for something when you and Bella first arrived and again when we were outside after dinner. You also made a point of keeping yourself between Bella and the street."
I nodded. Nothing gets past a cop.
"What's going on?" Charlie asked, folding his arms across his chest and glaring at me sternly. It was remarkable how Bella had Charlie's brown eyes, but looking into his eyes was nothing like looking into hers. This man definitely had the 'cop glare' down.
There was no way to beat around the bush about this. Charlie would see right through it. So, I laid it out for him. If he knew exactly what was going on, he would be able to protect Bella better when I was gone.
"The paparazzi are in Vermilion. I recognized one of them on the way here and I was looking to see if any of them followed us here. I was looking for any unusual flashes in shrubs or greenery. They are typically the reflection of camera lenses."
"Bella doesn't know?"
I shook my head. "Not yet. We've been expecting them to show up, but she hasn't really had to deal with anything outside of phone calls at the bar."
"Phone calls?"
"Yeah, I was recognized in the grocery store the other day, and the woman who spotted me knows Bella and promptly called the tabloids."
"Do you know the name of the woman that spotted you?"
"Yeah, Lauren Matthews. Do you know her?"
Charlie stroked his moustache with a wry look on his face. "Vermilion is a small town, Edward, and I'm the police chief. I know everyone."
I ran my hands through my hair again.
"And Lauren definitely had to be the worst person to be spotted by. Even I know she's an insufferable gossip," the older man added.
I rolled my eyes. "I realize that now. Making her acquaintance wasn't all that pleasant."
Charlie laughed before turning his expression serious again. "Bella isn't one that strives for the spotlight, son," Charlie warned.
"I know, Charlie. I've done everything I can to ensure that she does not have to worry about the paparazzi being on her doorstep, invading her life. Her home number is already unlisted and earlier this week I had a security system and fence installed. No one will be able to enter her property without her permission. She'll just have to learn how to deal with being out in public. Most of the attention here should pass once I return to LA."
"When are you going back?"
"Saturday afternoon. Most of the paparazzi should leave when I do, but there will still be a few stragglers. Most likely, they will hole up around the bar. She's gotten some extra security at the bar too, so that should help."
Charlie nodded, clearly pleased at the lengths I was taking to make sure his daughter would be safe.
I decided I needed to tell Charlie exactly where I was coming from and that I was serious about Bella. Clearing my throat, I looked Charlie straight in the eye. "Charlie, I love your daughter very much. I will do everything in my power to protect her." Charlie nodded as I continued. "Which is why I made sure she had the best kind of security for her home. The set up she has is very similar to what I have in my own home in LA. It will keep her safe."
Charlie stuck his hand out and I shook it quickly.
"Thank you, Edward, for taking care of my baby girl. I knew there was something different about you the first night I met you."
I winced, remembering why we had to meet at all. "I wish it had been under better circumstances."
"I do, too. But I'm very glad that you were there to protect her."
"I would do anything for her, Charlie," I swore solemnly.
"I know you will. Now let's get back to the girls before Bella thinks I have you handcuffed somewhere," Charlie teased, clapping me on the arm as he walked by me.
Back in the house, Bella, Leah, and Sue were all huddled together on the couch talking and giggling like schoolgirls.
"Are we interrupting something, ladies?" Charlie asked with a laugh.
All three women blushed as they pulled away from each other. Sue came over and stood with Charlie, taking his hand in hers. "Not a bit dear, just some girl talk. Leah and I were getting to know Bella."
I sat down next to Bella and slipped my arm around her shoulder, gently tugging her next to me. She smiled and put her hand on my leg. I really enjoyed this kind of familiarity and I was happy she felt comfortable enough to express her affection like this in front of her father.
"You ready to go, love?" I asked softly, brushing my lips across her ear.
She nodded and leaned into me. "Whenever you are."
We said our goodbyes and headed home. It had been a long day and we were both ready to relax at home before the craziness of the concert tomorrow. At some point tonight, I needed to tell Bella about the paparazzi. I was not looking forward to that conversation. I was also looking forward to some tasty leftovers tomorrow. However, there was a slice of apple pie that would not see the light of another day. It would provide perfect brain food for the excitement and probably drama of tomorrow night. I only hoped it wasn't as crazy as I was expecting it to be, for my sake and Bella's.
A/N Thank you for your patience and for reading!
As always, teasers for the next chapter will be given with reviews. I also post a second teaser in the thread on Twilighted. Come join us in the thread for BFTO: www(dot)twilighted(dot)net/forum/viewtopic(dot)php?f=44&t=9524 (replace the 'dot' with .)
Please also note that in the past I have tried to update every week. That kind of updating schedule is pretty grueling to keep up with everything else I have going on so I am going to be updating every other week now. Chapter 20 will be up on or around July 2nd. Chapter 21 will be up on or around July 16th and so on.
I have also started writing weekly picture prompts on a blog with some other great authors here in ficdom. If you want to read them, you can find them off of my FF profile or stop at the blog to see the other submissions as well: picprompt(dot)blogspot(dot)com