A/N: Okay, sorry sorry for the delayed postings. Life + busy = No time for chapters. But we are trying harder to make sure we post quicker. Anyhow, Extra big shout out to whoever it is that is posting this story on the IMDb New Moon boards recommending it to others. THANK YOU! Also huge thank you to our continuous readers and reviewers. You guys are ridiculously awesome.

That being said. I hope you enjoy this chapter. It's in all Emmett POV (two months worth – we are trying to skip over the drab mundane stuff and keep the story progressing – hope you don't mind too much). The next chapter will be All Bella......So, Enjoy! - EmmaleeWrites05

Disclaimer: I don't own anything as remotely cool as Twilight...Its all Stephenie Meyers.....

Chapter 9 - Inner Monologue

Emmett POV

It was absolutely heart breaking to leave Bella in Seattle like that. I knew we had to and I knew things were going to be difficult, but I was not going to let that interfere with our relationship. I was going to make this long distance crap work for as long as I possibly can. I already know that I will not be able to do it forever though. I love Bella enough already to know that I cannot be away from her for that long. She is my life now whether she knows it or not.

On the long ass plane flight home I thought about the future. I uncommonly don't like to go there in my mind. The future was always something I never really thought about. I was always one to just let life happen and see where it takes me. That's how I ended up in college playing football and then being drafted by the NFL. I just figured that was the natural path for my life to take.

But since meeting Bella – well – my whole world has been flipped upside down, rotated thirty degrees and flattened. Nothing made sense anymore. The only thing that seemed to matter to me was to just get through the mundane everyday activities just so I can call Bella, see Bella, Hold Bella. That was it. Bella, Bella, Bella. That was life. And I knew I would do anything and everything in my power to give her a life she deserves - College education, a house, a marriage, a family? I'll do it. Travel to Singapore, study crop circles or other weird shit or go sailing around the world? Yeah – I'd do that too.

When I finally made the connection that life for me was changing – I decided to put those ideas into action. I'd been home for about two weeks when the epiphany hit. We just got back from beating yet another team in a not so rousing round of football when I realized – I don't love football anymore. Don't get me wrong – I am a guy and will forever love a good game of football. But, I didn't live for it anymore like I use to. Now, football was just a hindrance keeping me from Bella. It was because of football that I had to travel so much. It was because of football that I wasn't in Seattle with Bella. And because it was always all about football – I started to resent it.

I'd go to every practice, every team meeting and every game. But I was starting to become a loner of sorts. I never went out to celebrate with the guys after a win. I'd just go home or to whatever faceless hotel I was staying at and call Bella. We would stay on the phone for hours at a time – most of which ended with Bella falling asleep with her phone still on. I would quickly text Alice and let her know. Many times she went in there and closed Bella's cell for her and turn out the light. I liked Alice. She took care of Bella when I wasn't there. That, I was very thankful for.

With the knowledge that I didn't want to play football anymore – I made a plan. I wanted this to be my last season of football. My contract was almost up and I'd need to renew it anyhow. I have played enough grab ass to know that I am done. I have enough money saved up, yes saved up. Even though I had made millions by this point – I didn't live beyond my means. I bought a house, a Jeep Wrangler, a Yamaha R1 sport bike, a big screen TV and put the rest of my money away. Who needs to live in over abundance when the simple life works just the same?

I just didn't know how I was going to tell my family that this season was it – and – it was because I was in love with a beautiful woman I had a fling with in Seattle that has blossomed into a romance that I honestly know that after only two month that I want to spend the rest of my life with her? And, on top of that – what the hell was I going to do once I moved to Seattle? I knew I would move there and not ask her to move here. One, all her family and friends are there and I would not want to take her away from that. And two – I actually loved Seattle. The whole city was a constant variety of different people, new and different things to go see – and – I actually like the near constant cover of clouds and rain. Seattle was gorgeous compared to Chicago.

I know I have dinner in two weeks with my folks – first one I will have had in almost a month and a half because of my crazy schedule. I think I might maybe broach the subject to them then. It will be good to have Edward there as well. Him being my manager and all – he will have to take the necessary steps in helping me leave the NFL. I wonder what he will do after I leave. He has been my manager since college. But besides just being my manager, he takes care of my finances along with my taxes and my home when I am on the road. He is like the quintessential office manager. I know he hates it when I call him that.

I had been batting around the idea of opening my own gym for the last few years, but I never really thought much of it because I never had a reason to. Football was always there. Now that football is nothing but a passing dream – I could open my own fitness center. Of course it would be in Seattle and not Chicago. Maybe Edward could help run it. Scrawny little guy needs balk up and get into a gym anyhow.

But this is almost all hear say and day dreams until I get to talk to Bella about any of this. I think it is too soon to bring any of this up to her, or my feelings, regardless of what I thought she feels for me. I am pretty sure her feelings run deeper then she lets on. Her eyes are so damn expressive and I swear I had seen love flicker across them multiple times that last time I saw her.

The next two weeks passed in a blur of practices, games, hotels, late night phone calls and barely there sleep. I called Bella multiple times a day, texted her whenever I got a chance and emailed her when I knew she was at work and couldn't respond or if it was entirely too late to call. I sent her a small bundle of daisies about a week ago which got me a series of yelling texts telling me to stop wasting money on her and then several afterwards of her apologizing saying she loved them. She really was peculiar about me spending money on her. I think it has something to do with a meager upbringing and a 'waste not want not' kind of attitude. I hope she will get through it soon because I love being able to spoil her and show her how much I love her without having to say the words yet.

It was now Friday night and our family dinner was tonight. I know I don't want to share with the whole family about Bella just yet. I want to make sure that this relationship we have will make it through all the hard times. Plus, once people found out about us, I'm afraid that the media will harass her and post pictures of her in their magazines. I don't want that for her even if it is inevitable. We had discussed that happening over the last few weeks where Bella simply replied, "If it happens it happens. What are they going to find out? That my one of my best friends is a pixie? That the other is a lesbian? That my dad's a cop? Ooh, I know….they are going to discover that I secretly still like listening to teeny bopper music from the 90's!?! So what? As long as we both know what is true – does the rest really matter?" I loved her even more after that. The fact that she was ready to take on that burden for me just showed how mature our relationship really is. Bella is amazing.

Edward yelled at me from downstairs breaking me from my inner monologue. It was time to go. Our folk's house was only a short drive outside the city. Our dad, Carlisle, was the leading spinal surgeon in the country which allowed us to grow up without needing anything. Our mother – Esme, was an interior decorator specializing in the modern era. Their combined careers offered us all a comfortable lifestyle. Their amazing personas allowed us to be brought up like gentlemen with a smart head on our shoulders instead of spoiled rich brats that got everything they wanted. I loved my parents for that.

We pulled up in front of their house and I knew that this night was going to be a strained interesting one. Edward didn't really say anything on the ride over there. He kept shooting me weird glances like I was a puzzle he was trying to figure out. I probably was one. I have been distant with him over the last two months since I met Bella and I haven't answered any of his questions of why I was always on the phone locked in my room or 'jet setting off to Seattle'. He knew something was going on – I just hoped he didn't know yet the extent of it.

Before I knew it we were in the front entrance hall of my parent's home. I really needed to cut this inner monologue crap with myself – I'm losing track of time.

"Emmett! Edward! So glad you both could come." My mother walked up and gave us each a hug. "How are you boys doing?"

Edward answered with a simple good and I just smiled, "Where's dad?"

"Oh he's in the living room tinkering with a new proto-type tool for surgery. Why don't you guys go talk to him? I am just finishing up dinner and it should be ready in a few minutes." She ushered us off into the living room where we found our dad inspecting this little hand held camera looking thing. I wasn't really into the whole "doctor" thing but Edward was so they always had a lot in common.

"Hey dad." I noticed his scotch was almost empty, "Want another refill?" He looked up with a smile on his face just noticing us walking in.

"That would be great, Thanks Emmett." I grabbed his glass and quickly made it over to the liquor cabinet. He and Edward were already in a deep conversation about the pros and cons of this knew 'ground breaking' tool in the medical industry. I handed my dad a neat scotch and Edward a jack on the rocks. I took my beer and mumbled, "I'm going to go see if mom needs any help." They both just kind of nodded their heads like they were too far gone in what they were discussing to really hear me. Like I said, interesting night.

I brought my mom a dirty martini and found her in the kitchen. It smelled wonderful in there. "Oh, thank you Emmett." She took the glass from my hand, took a sip and set it down. "Would you be a dear and grab the ham out of the oven. I just need to finish up mixing this sauce for it."

I grabbed the pot holders, "How have you been mom?"

"Oh good. I just got done redecorating this penthouse in upper New York for a really nice couple. Your dad has a business meeting with the designers behind that new tool he keeps playing with next week in New Mexico, so we will be able to see your game there. How have you been? Busy I know."

"Yeah, it's been crazy." I put the ham down on the counter top, "I feel like I don't have any time any more. But the season is coming along great. I think we will make it to the Super Bowl again this year."

"Well that's good honey….So…..meet any interesting girls lately?"

"Mom!"

"What? I was just asking. A mother can hope that eventually she'll have a daughter-in-law and some grandchildren." My mind wandered at the exact moment. Would my folks even like Bella? Why wouldn't they? Everyone likes Bella. And grandchildren. Children. Babies. Bella pregnant. My mind went on a roller coaster of future scenarios. I was broken out of the spell when I felt my mother's gentle hand on my arm, "Emmett…Are you okay? Looks like I lost you there for a bit…"

"Yeah mom….just thinking about what you said."

"So - there is a girl, what's her name?" She looked at me with a very calculating look. How does she do that? It couldn't hurt to confide in her. I have been bursting to tell someone about Bella and how I feel. One can only keep life alerting news like this bottled up for so long. "Yes mom there is".

Her face lit up like the Fourth of July. Her eyes went wide and I swear if I didn't know any better, she had to have known Alice at one point in time because she got that same giddy bouncing in one place, clapping the hands expression going on that I have seen Alice do many times. "Mom….mom…calm down…." I whispered in hushed tones. I glanced over my shoulder to make sure nobody was coming into the kitchen. "We have only been together for a short time and I didn't want to tell you guys anything just in case it didn't work out….so please – don't tell dad and Edward. Please."

Her smile didn't even falter, "Oh Emmett I won't, geesh. So, what's her name? Does she live here in Chicago? What does she do? What does she look like? How old is she? You have to tell me everything." She rattled off those questions so fast I almost didn't catch them all. Yep. I am convinced. My mother had to have known Alice at some point in time. Maybe in a previous life.

"Mom…again….calm down….Her name is Isabella, she prefers Bella - And she beautiful. She is 23 and works as a front desk clerk at a hotel……." I paused and my mother gave me a funny look, "…in Seattle."

"What about Seattle?" Edward just walked into the kitchen and caught the last little bit about our discussion. Great.

"Oh nothing Edward. I was just explaining to mom all of the cool things I got to see while I was in Seattle for my games – like the troll under the bridge." I shot my mom a glance that basically said 'please don't tell him. Go along with this.'

She just nodded her head keeping mum. My dad entered the kitchen then, "I remember the troll under the bridge." He walked over to our mom and a put an arm around her shoulder whispering in her ear, but loud enough for us to hear, "Remember that night we went to see it…I will always remember that night and how dark it is und...."

"DAD!" Edward and I both screamed at the same time. Mom just giggled.

"What boys?" He kind of just shrugged his shoulders like it was no big deal.

"TMI dad, too much information." The rest of the night was much easier. We all sat down to have dinner. The conversation was light and never once again touched on the subject of Seattle. My mom just kept giving me glances over the table. If I didn't know her better I would think she was already planning a wedding and nursery for their house. Now I know where I get my day dreaming from. Edward on the other hand gave me that look that meant I was not going to be able to escape this discussion in the car on the way home.

A few hours later we said our goodbyes and started to head home. No sooner did we leave the driveway did Edward start in. "Okay Emmett. If you seriously think that I don't know that something is up – you are poorly mistaken."

"Yeah, Okay Edward." I tried to sound as sarcastic as ever to get him to drop the subject.

"I'm serious Em." I scoffed, I hate when people use that nickname. Except for when Bella does. "I know something is up. You have been acting weird since you came back from Seattle the first time. Then when you came back a month ago you were even worst. You are constantly in your room with the door locked and shut. Every time your cell rings with that annoying 'Apple Bottoms Jeans' song they try to pass as music – you disappear." I smiled. Yeah, I had to make that song Bella's ring tone. That song has new meaning after seeing her dance to it that first night we met.

"Edward…think maybe I lock the door because I don't want you walking in on my business." I gestured towards my crotch. I internally laughed. Edward was never one that was comfortable with his sexual side let alone anybody else's.

Edward laughed, "Yeah right Emmett – like you've ever hid that side of you anyway. I know you are always on the phone. You never go out with your friends anymore. You're keeping secrets and we never keep secrets. Plus, you don't even really talk to me anymore…"

"I know Edward, I'm sorry. I'll make a habit of spending more time with you and my friends okay?"

"So…..your still not going to tell me what's up, are you?"

"Nope" I popped the 'p'. "There really isn't anything going on. And when there is, you'll be one of the first to know." I let the conversation end with that. Edward didn't try to bug me about it again – thankfully.

We were now down to one month left until Thanksgiving. Coach always gave us a few days off for Thanksgiving and I was looking forward to spending that time with Bella. We hadn't really had a chance to see each other much over the last few weeks and I know that we won't be able to see each other again until Thanksgiving. I did get to spend two days with her last week in Oregon when we had a game there. She said it was close enough to drive and see me. We didn't leave that hotel room except for the game those entire two days. That good bye was even harder than the first. I am getting sick of goodbyes and we hadn't even really had that many to begin with.

Because of the holidays I decided I want to surprise Bella with something fun for Thanksgiving. I asked her first if she would be alright with that. I guess I picked the right day. She was upset about something at work the day I called and when I offered her a getaway for a few days – just jumped all over it.

My Thanksgiving break was from November 25th to the 29th this year. I coordinated with Alice to make sure Bella could get those days off before I planned out everything. Alice even insured me that it would be fine that Bella didn't spend the holiday with her family. Her mom was apparently on a road trip of sorts with her step dad and her actual dad had to work. Someone had to work the shit shift of the holidays.

I decided I had to let my mom know I wasn't going to be there either. I grabbed my phone and quickly called her.

"Oh, Hello Emmett."

"Hi mom"

"How are you?"

"I'm fine, you?"

"Good dear, so what do I owe the honor of this phone call today?"

"I actually wanted to let you know that I was not going to be attending Thanksgiving dinner this year."

It was quiet on the other end for a little bit. I was starting to think we had been disconnected when she answered me, "Okay dear. Can I ask why?"

"I'm going out of town for those few days."

She squealed. "Are you going to go see Bella?"

"Yes and no. I am spending it with her but we are taking a trip. I thought maybe we should get some time together since we hardly ever even see each other."

"Well that sounds nice dear. Can I ask where you are taking her?"

"Same place that dad took you three years ago for your anniversary."

"OH! She will love that. Well I hope you guys enjoy yourselves. Sad you won't be at Thanksgiving but I'll cover for you and make sure your dad and brother don't suspect a thing."

"Thanks mom."

"You're welcome. Listen, I have to go. I am meeting a potential client in a few minutes. I'll see you Friday at dinner. Love you."

"Love you to mom." And we hung up. Time to make some official plans now.

I opened my lap top and looked up the number I was looking for and I quickly called it.

"Good afternoon. Thank you for calling the Wawona Hotel. My name is Molly. How can I help you today?" The Wawona Hotel is in Yosemite National Park in California. My parents went there about three years ago for their anniversary. The pictures they took of the park were gorgeous. I don't really even know how to put it into words. I can only imagine the real thing is even better. They went during the summer months when it is overly busy with tourists. However, from the things I have read on the Internet - the winter is the most beautiful time because of the snow. I figured Bella would love to cozy up next to a fire with a book and a cup of hot chocolate. Maybe play a little in the snow and see all the beautiful natural wonders of Yosemite.

"Yes, Hi. My name is Emmett and I would like to book your best room for November 25th through the 29th."

"Alright sir. That is a pretty expensive room and we usually only hold them for the celebrity status people that come through frequently."

"Well then I probably should have mentioned that my last name is Cullen."

"Like the Chicago Bears quarterback?"

"The one and only."

She let out a muffled little squeak. "Okay sir." I know she was trying her hardest to not sound excited. "That room runs an average of $1000 a night. It has its own bathroom, fire place, lounge and bedroom. You can even get private dinners brought to your room. You're also welcome to eat in the restaurant of course." I remembered my dad telling me how old this hotel was. He said you had to pay for the more expensive rooms to have your own bathroom. But this was a high end hotel. I was more than willing to pay the price.

I quickly booked the room and gave her my credit card number. She insured me that my room was being held under a fictitious name in order to provide me with privacy and security. Though she did warn me that once we get there that word would spread like wildfire and I should be prepared for half the female staff and all of the male staff of the restaurant and hotel to approach me multiple times for autographs. I don't mind that. Always glad to meet a fan – I just hope they don't interrupt meals or if Bella and I are otherwise occupied.

I got off the phone with Molly from the hotel and quickly called Bella. She would be home by now and I want her to be prepared. I would be flying in on the 24th we would be flying out of Seattle on the 25th to the Sacramento airport in California. Then it was roughly a four hour drive from the airport to Yosemite. I can't wait.

The phone started ringing. She had a ring back set so I could listen to some music instead of the drab old ring. I heard the old "Please enjoy the music while your party is reached" and then it went into the song Jack and Diane by John Mellencamp.

"Hey baby." I love hearing her answer the phone like that.

"Hey Sweetie. I wanted to call and tell you that you should start packing for Thanksgiving. We are going to be able to get away for a few days like I had wanted."

"Sweet! Where are we going?"

"Ah, I can't tell you that but I can tell you to pack warm because there will be snow....oh and for like five or six days worth."

"Yeah. I can't wait. I need to get away from this place for a while. It is driving me crazy!"

"That bad?" She proceeded to tell me all about work and everything else going on there. I made my way up stairs and found myself lying in bed talking to her like we normally do. About 30 minutes later she started to drift off in between saying things. I heard the steady rhythm of her breathing and knew she had fallen asleep. I couldn't help myself as I spoke out loud to a slumbering Bella, "Before too long baby – I will actually be there to hold you tight while you fall asleep."

A/N: Let's all say it together, "Awwwwww" Emmett's in love. Love it, hate it or just want to make us smile – please leave a review. Thanks :)