Just Stay With Me

by cantobycomeoutandplay

AU/AH. Sometimes when we least expect it, the one thing we never knew we needed walks right in the door. Reposted. Posted chapters currently being beta'd. Will be finished

17. Not Enough

A/N: All info located in chapter "Over" posting.

Disclaimer: Everything belongs to Stephenie Meyer, the creator of Twilight.

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Bella was relieved that the weekend from hell had finally come to an end.

Although, she hadn't realized just how much she would miss having Jake around her.

It had been near painful to put on a smile and say goodbye to him the normal way.

But it had nearly killed her not to be able to touch him in any way or kiss him.

She made sure to only look at him when necessary, the sadness and longing that was already in his dark eyes would surely pull her under and make her start to tear up in front of everyone. It was hard enough to talk as it was, the lump lodged firmly in her throat and refusing to move.

Ness plastered on a fake smile and clung to his side, making it impossible for him to find any crazy excuse, even one aided by Emmett and Rose.

Ness didn't offer any of her usual air-kisses or casual embraces so it gave Bella no excuse to come close to him.

While Ness was telling Edward and Emmett she'd see them the next day (she had been rudely ignoring Rose and Bella since they had left the shore), Bella chanced a glance at Jake.

That sad look was there again. Bella bit her lip and looked away. That fucking bitch.

She decided to try and distract herself so she wouldn't cry and give them away or make everyone think she was more insane than they already did. She quietly cleared her throat and began to try to lift one of the suitcases and bring it to the car. She struggled with it, she had never really been all that strong, but she was able to get it to budge. She let it down and took a breath before rubbing her hands together in satisfaction. Two inches down, twelve more feet to go.

She heard laughter behind her, all forced in light of the tense situation still emanating from their trip, but loud enough to make her look back. Ness had made some sort of joke and Edward and Emmett were both laughing along with her. Jake and Rose, under Emmett's arm, were smiling wanly.

Bella scoffed in disgust. She fucking hated Ness. Why the fuck did the woman have to go all possessive on a husband she clearly didn't give a fuck about before? Why? Why now when all Bella wanted to do was hug Jake, shake his hand, accidentally bump into him, stand next to him, something, just so she could be near him, feel him?

She closed her eyes and turned back around, willing her jealousy and anger away. This was no time to be acting like fucking Ness herself. Jake didn't love her. He loved Bella. And she knew that.

She took another deep breath, rubbed her hands together again quickly and attempted to lift the suitcase again.

"Bella, let me get that for you. That was a long enough drive; I don't fancy spending the night in the Emergency Room."

She turned to glare at him.

"I'm handling it quite well myself, thanks."

Jake smirked.

"Oh yeah? At what? Two inches an hour?"

Her glare intensified but inside, she felt lighter than she had a minute ago.

He shook his head, still smiling, and grabbed the handle from her, his fingers brushing against hers for a moment.

She drew in a breath, making him glide his thumb quickly over her knuckles and smirking wider, while lifting the bag away from her.

She turned to find everyone else watching the exchange between them.

Shit.

Emmett laughed and playfully clapped Edward on the shoulder.

"You know it's true, dude. Bella would have us driving to the ER in no time."

Edward chuckled and smiled warmly at her. "True. My beautiful wife does tend to be quite clumsy at times."

She scowled at them which only made them laugh louder.

Rose shook her head and gave her a wicked knowing grin.

Ness did not.

Ness looked very, very pissed.

Part of Bella was worried, nervous that maybe Ness had seen her reaction to Jake's touch.

The other part wanted to grab Jake and kiss him, moan into his mouth and grind against him in front of the woman. Jake was hers and she wasn't above letting Ness know that.

Bella stifled both parts, hearing Jake's voice in her head almost as if he were still right next to her. "Baby, you're thinking again. You've got to stop that." "Don't. Trust me, save the thinking for later." And that's what she would do. Save it for later. She smiled politely at them, rolling her eyes, and turned to walk to the back of hers and Edward's car, grabbing a small bag on the way so as not to look too suspicious. She heard Jake's voice and her head shot up.

"Hey, Edward. Can you pop the trunk so I can get this in here?"

Edward had been in the midst of saying goodbye to the other three and he looked back at Jake in surprise.

"Oh. Jacob, don't worry about it. I'll get to it in a minute. I was just saying goodbye. Thank you for bringing it over, though."

Jake shrugged nonchalantly. "Nah, man. I'm already here. Plus, I don't trust your wife with this big thing back here all alone. Something tells me she might just think she's Superwoman and try to lift it again and then we're calling an ambulance. Just pop it."

Everyone laughed again, making Bella glare at Jake once more which in turn made him smirk wider than before.

"You've got a point there, Jacob. I appreciate it, thank you."

Edward hit the button on the fob in his hand. The trunk popped a bit.

"Anytime."

Edward went back to saying goodbye and Jake lifted the trunk in front of him and placed the suitcase into the trunk. Ness watched him as he did it until Edward said something to her, distracting her attention away from Jake. Bella knew she didn't have much time and made her way back to Jake.

She was still looking back, watching the other people as she was rounding the back of the car, when she felt his hand around her wrist, yanking her roughly next to him.

But instead of kissing her like she expected, Jake leaned down into the trunk, as if checking to make sure the bag fit snuggly, and held her hand in his. He placed soft gentle kisses to it.

"One more."

She grasped his hand tight at his husky whisper.

"One more day, baby. One more."

She smiled at him fondly and sighed. "Miss you."

He looked up and smiled at her. He inserted his fingers into her hand and then interlaced their fingers.

"I miss you, too."

He brought her hand up to his lips and kissed it.

"I'll call you as soon as I can, okay?"

She nodded.

He released her hand, turned it over and placed one final kiss to the inside of her wrist and then her open palm.

"I love you, baby."

She tried to swallow past the lump.

"I love you, too."

He smiled sadly and then dropped her hand. She could still feel his kisses burning her skin.

"Here. Give me that. I'll put it in."

She looked down at the bag and then back at him, giving him an incredulous look.

"Jake, you don't have to. I can put this in the back. It's small enough."

He gave her a big smirk and grabbed the bag.

She rolled her eyes and waited for the size joke she knew was to come.

But it didn't.

And when he looked back at her, she knew why.

He didn't want to leave her any more than she did him.

He chuckled and shook his head, looking down at the bags.

"We both wanted this weekend to end so badly. And now that it is, I don't think I want it to."

Bella was moving closer to him when he held out a hand to stop her.

"Bells, don't. They're right there."

"I don't care."

He stopped her when she tried to move again.

"Yes, you do. Whether you realize it right now or not. You do."

He dropped his hand and smiled an empty smile at her.

She sighed and stepped back.

He was right.

What the hell was wrong with her? Why was it she was so careless lately, constantly putting them at risk?

"I hate this."

He smiled more.

"I know. I do, too. But it's nothing we can't handle. Only one more day, Bells."

Bella nodded.

"One more."

He turned back to the trunk.

He whispered even lower.

"One more."

"One more what?"

Ness and Edward stepped out from Jake's side of the car, staring at the two of them.

Emmett and Rose came around Bella's side.

Bella felt Rose at her left shoulder and Emmett's hand on her back. She felt slightly comforted and reassured knowing they were there. But it still didn't deter the nervousness she felt as she watched Ness eye her up and down. Thank God Jake had stopped her from moving next to him like she wanted to only mere moments ago. At least one of them was clear-headed about this whole thing.

Jake didn't even falter. He was a natural at this which made Bella feel safe and she trusted him completely. But at the same time, her stomach lurched whenever she thought of how he came to be so good at the whole covering up thing. "Save the thinking for later." Bella shook her head slightly. Right.

"There's room for one more in here. Bella was gonna throw this small one in the back but I told her it would all fit. Look, there's even room here for one more."

Ness narrowed her eyes and flickered them back and forth between Bella and Jake. Bella felt Emmett tense at her back and then she felt Rose tense in response.

Shit.

That couldn't be good.

Jake gave Ness an annoyed smirk. "Like I said, Bella shouldn't be handling anything heavier than two pounds. It's been a hell of a long day and I don't feel like driving to the ER just to sit there for hours on end. I've got a lot of packing to do."

Jake's eyes were staring coldly at his wife, daring her to challenge him but also successfully drawing all her attention on him and away from Bella.

Bella snuck a glance at Edward. He was watching the silent battle between Jake and Ness as much as she was.

Emmett cleared his throat loudly.

"Yeah, I agree with Jake. Bella's a danger to society and herself so he just saved us a long-ass time in the waiting room and Bella the seventy seven stitches it would've taken to put her back together. So, on that great note, Rose and I are gonna take off."

Jake's and Ness' eyes didn't leave each other, didn't acknowledge that they had paid any attention to what Emmett had just said.

Emmett leaned forward and whispered into Bella's ear. "Bella, sweetie. If you need me for anything, you call me right away. You got me?"

Bella turned and smiled at Emmett. He really was her hero.

"Of course, Em. I love you."

She fell forward, wrapping her arms around him in a hug. He hugged her tightly to him and kissed the top of her head. He leaned down to whisper in her ear again. "I'm serious, Bella. Anything. And you remember what I said before, okay?"

Bella nodded against him. She pulled back and kissed him on the cheek, smiling.

He smiled down at her, kissed her forehead and walked towards the others.

Rose stepped into Bella's view.

"Bella, will you walk me to our car?"

Bella nodded a little hesitantly. She still hadn't forgotten how Rose had spoken to her earlier. But, Emmett was right. It needed to be said.

Rose smiled. "Just give me one second to say goodbye."

"Sure."

Rose turned and made her goodbyes and thanked both husband and wife for the 'lovely weekend'. She hoped they could do it again sometime. Ugh. Bella hoped not.

It didn't escape Bella's notice that Ness suddenly warmed up to Rose again. That bothered her. That meant that Rose was no longer a suspect and now Bella was the prime one.

Shit.

When Emmett and Rose turned to leave, Bella walked with them.

"Be right back, Edward."

He smiled.

"Okay, love."

Once they reached the passenger side of Emmett's car, Rose turned to face Bella.

"Bella, listen,"

She kept her voice low. Bella had to lean in a little to hear her.

"I know I kind of exploded at you before." Bella involuntarily arched her brow. Kind of?

Rose sighed. "It's just-well, it's not my business, Bella. But I-I guess I just want you to be okay."

Bella's mouth hung open. Emmett had told her the reason behind Rose's reaction earlier but this-this blew her away. Maybe she was identifying with Bella a little more than Emmett thought.

"R-Rose, don't worry about it. What you said...needed to be said. I'm just sorry I pushed you into having to say it."

Rose shook her head. "No, Bella. It's...not easy what you're going through. I know better than anyone. So I should have been more understanding and I'm sorry."

Bella went to protest but Rose held her hand up.

"Listen, Bella, I know we...don't really talk much..."

They never talked.

"But...if you ever need anything. Anything. Someone to talk to, advice, anything, I would like you to call me." Rose placed a small slip of paper into her hand. Bella looked down at it.

It was Rose's cell phone number written in her beautiful handwriting.

Bella looked back up at Rose who was smiling.

"I mean it, Bella. Anything you need, whatever day it is, whatever time, you call me."

Bella nodded.

"Thank you, Rose."

Rose smiled wider but pulled away, opening the door.

"Anytime."

She then got in and closed the door, giving Bella one final wink and then stared straight ahead.

Bella lifted her eyes to meet Emmett's staring at her across the roof of the car.

"Okay, sweetie. I'll talk to you soon, okay?"

Bella nodded again.

"Okay, Em. Thank you. For everything."

He grinned at her.

"Don't worry, Beautiful. I'll think up some way you can make it up to me."

She laughed and he gave her a wink.

"See you soon, Bella."

"Yeah, Em. See you soon."

He grinned wider and then got into the car next to Rose.

Their car pulled away from the curb and down the street, honking it's last goodbye.

Bella watched them leave.

Wow. So much had changed so drastically this weekend.

Those two were completely in her corner.

How did she ever get so lucky?

She didn't have time to ponder it for long, though.

She heard Edward call out for her.

"Hey, love. Ready to go?"

She glanced back, seeing Edward practically sandwiched between Jake and Ness in conversation, looking as uncomfortable as Bella felt right now around those two.

She smiled.

"Yeah, Let's go."

She slipped the paper into the pocket of her jeans and strode forward towards Edward's car.

Ness and Edward smiled in return. And while Jake did the same, he made sure not to make direct eye contact with her.

And the reason why he wouldn't suddenly spoke up.

"Bella, I'm sorry we didn't get to chat more this weekend. I hope you had a decent time."

Bella smiled tightly. She just couldn't stand this woman, how fake she was, how she clung to Jake's side even when it was clear he didn't want her to.

"Absolutely. I had a wonderful time, thank you."

Ness smiled wider.

"Oh. But you didn't do very much. You seemed to be...sick...most of the time."

New Bella rose to the surface fast like a raging flood and took control.

She knew what Ness was insinuating, what Ness was after. And fuck, she was not having it. Although, she would love nothing more than to claim him as hers.

"Yes. I definitely had something and it completely wore me out. But now I'm better, good as new practically."

Ness narrowed her eyes at her discreetly.

New Bella didn't flinch.

"But thank you all the same. I'm sorry I missed so much of the weekend. Maybe next time."

Ness nodded slowly and precisely.

"Yes. Next time. Definitely."

Bella smiled wider and turned towards Edward who had put one arm around her gently.

She leaned into him.

"Well, should we go?"

Edward smiled down at her adoringly.

"Yes, love. Let's."

He kissed her lips, a minute longer than he should have in front of the other two, and then pulled her to the passenger door.

She kept the smile plastered on and turned to wave.

Jake's expression made her heart jump in her throat, right next to the lump that hadn't moved from earlier.

Instead of his usual tightly clenched jaw and angry eyes, all she saw was longing and a little...pain.

She wanted nothing more than to shirk off Edward's arm and run to him. Throw her arms around him and never let him go. Wink at him and mouth 'I love you' the way he had so many times before. Smile at him in soft reassurance.

But she couldn't do any of those things.

Ness was all over her now.

She had made that abundantly clear from her clipped, cool but polite tone before.

Edward opened the door and she got in. He closed it for her and she stared out at the couple standing there as Edward made his way around the car.

Bella didn't want to leave without giving Jake some sort of sign that she was still very much his.

But with Ness watching her like a hawk, she had no choice.

And then, as if by some divine intervention, Edward stopped at the driver's door and said something to Ness about tomorrow.

Ness was distracted for a second, looking at Edward, and Bella took full advantage.

Jake's eyes were already on her and she gave him a soft smile, mouthing 'One more day' to him. She saw the corners of his mouth twitch as he fought back a smile of his own. He lowered his eyes to the ground and nodded once, a very quick and subtle movement that she was sure Edward or Ness hadn't caught it.

He lifted his eyes back up to hers, the pain in them a little less but the longing still very present in the dark depths.

Bella's eyes flickered to Ness' face who was still very much engaged in the conversation with Edward.

She glanced quickly back at Jake. His arms were crossed and his head was bowed, his thumb rubbing his bottom lip back and forth. He wasn't looking at her anymore. He seemed to be deep in thought.

Bella lowered her eyes to her hands in her lap.

She swiveled her head and noticed Edward's body still leaned against the car. She checked Ness one more time who was smiling and nodding.

Bella pulled out her phone quickly and kept it hidden well beneath the window.

I love u. I love u. I love u. I love u. R u gonna b okay?

She sent it, knowing his phone would be in his pocket. He wouldn't pick it up now, that would just be suicidal, answering it in plain sight of his very suspicious wife. But he would eventually. And then he would text her back. But at least he would know what she wanted to say so badly but couldn't because of the watchful eyes they were under.

She put her phone back into her jeans and sat back, waiting for Edward to finish up whatever he had started. She rolled her eyes. If it was about work, they could be here all night.

Jake seemed to think so, too, because he turned to Ness, interrupting politely, and told her something Bella couldn't hear through the closed window. Jake then turned to Edward, smiling, said something to him, and then waved at both of them and then jogged into the house, leaving a very pale looking Ness behind with them.

No one seemed to say anything for a minute that Bella could tell. And then she felt the vibration in her pocket. She did a quick scan and warily pulled out her phone.

I love u baby. So much. Im gonna b fine. Packing now. Will call u as soon as I get out of here. I promise. I love u.

She frowned a little and glanced around quickly before responding.

R u sure u want 2 do that?

His response was just as quick.

Babe, I told u. Has nthng 2 do w/ u. Its what I want. So dont worry. Evrythng will b fine. Am missing the hell out of u tho. Im dying, babe. It doesnt seem rite that I didnt get 2 kiss u 1 more time. I dont like it. =(

She sighed sadly. God, she was missing him, too.

She began to type in a response when Edward's door opened. She quickly but discreetly kept her phone low and near the door, before popping it back into her pocket.

Edward's inability to cut the conversation short helped her in her subtlety.

Now she could hear what the conversation was about.

"Okay, so it's Tuesday. We leave around 9, right?"

"No, we're leaving for the airport around 7:15 or so."

"Oh. Alright. Well, either way, we'll work out the details, I'm sure. Have a nice night, Ness. See you tomorrow."

Edward slowly got in and closed the door behind him.

He buckled his seatbelt and smiled warmly at Bella.

"Let's go home, love."

And then he grabbed her hand and held it in his. Bella smiled herself and turned to wave to Ness.

Ness was glowering at them.

Bella narrowed her eyes and turned back to Edward.

"What's up with her? Why is she sending us death glares all of a sudden?"

Edward sighed and held her hand tighter.

"You heard them earlier, Bella. We all did. Jacob's leaving her."

Bella nodded.

"Okay, I get that. It's horrible." New Bella screamed inside her, 'NOT!' Bella swallowed to keep the scream from escaping her own throat.

"And that made the ride home uncomfortable for us all. But, what does that have to do with us?"

Edward let go of her hand for a second to turn the key in the ignition and then reached for it again.

He sighed once more.

"Absolutely nothing, love. I think she's just very upset. She wasn't exactly friendly towards Rose and Em either."

Bella could see that this was bothering him. Her asking him about it. Maybe he just didn't want to get involved in it all, like he had told her when she had returned from her car ride with Jake that afternoon.

She squeezed his hand.

"Sorry."

His head whipped around and he looked at her shocked.

"What are you sorry for?"

She opened her mouth but before she could speak, Edward did.

"Love, I'm the one who should be sorry. I just...don't want to be in the middle of all this...stuff. That's all. It has nothing to do with you. I just want to concentrate on us."

He smiled at her and squeezed her hand back.

She smiled and nodded in acquiescence.

"Me, too."

He squeezed her hand again and then turned towards the steering wheel.

"Let's go."

He released Bella's hand and pulled away from the curb. Bella turned to watch Ness as he did.

Ness' expression hadn't changed. If anything, it only intensified. Bella looked beyond her and sighed quietly.

Jake was in that house.

Jake, who was waiting on her responding text, who was missing her as much as she was missing him. Jake, who she loved and knew she did now.

She turned and sat back into her seat.

She subconsciously rubbed her forehead with her right hand as she rested her elbow on the door next to her.

And he loved her.

She knew this wouldn't be easy. Them being together, on top of each other, like they were the last two days, with their spouses there. And then she knew it would be even harder for them to separate. But she didn't know the pain was going to be like this.

Like someone had taken a knife and cut her right down the middle.

Like she was leaving behind half of her heart in that house.

The half that belonged to Jake.

The half that beat for him in New Bella's chest.

The half that old Bella needed back inside her own chest, desperately needing it for her own to work, which couldn't seem to function without the new one.

Without that other half, she just didn't work.

And she was even more torn.

This new knowledge was pushing her a lot closer to a decision than neither half liked. A decision that neither Bella was really ready to make.

She sighed, this time loudly, causing Edward to turn to her.

"You okay, love?"

She closed her eyes, pinching the bridge of her nose.

"Yeah, Edward. I'm okay. Just really tired. That's all. It's been a long weekend, wouldn't you say?"

She turned to face him and he frowned. He looked back at the road, not saying anything, and nodded.

Bella stared out her window at the trees and stores passing by.

She felt Edward's cool hand grasp hers and squeeze.

"I love you, Bella. I really do."

She turned to give him a small smile.

"I love you, too, Edward."

He smiled in return and turned his attention back to the road.

He continued to hold her hand and Bella turned back to watching buildings whizz past her.

"You're my life, Bella. I don't know what I'd ever do without you."

Bella's eyes shut tightly.

And just like that, the incision went deeper.

"I don't know what I'd do without you, either."

Edward brought her hand up to his lips and kissed it.

Bella inwardly cringed at the familiar gesture and opened her eyes to watch him.

Those lips against her skin like that just didn't feel right.

And a part of her hated that they didn't.

Because as he turned to smile warmly at her once more, she realized she still loved him.

But for some reason, she just couldn't stop imagining someone else's smile, someone else's lips, warm lips...

She swallowed thickly and forced a smile.

Inside, the half of her heart that belonged to Edward cracked open a little more.

~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~

Once they made it back to the house, Edward carried their luggage inside and Bella began to unpack.

As if their entry into the house cued Edward's return back to the busy life they both led, his cell phone began ringing.

He glanced at the screen and sighed.

"Bella, love, I'm sorry. I have to take this. I'll be right back."

Bella nodded. "Sure."

He smiled that apologetic smile at her and swiftly left the room.

She could hear him heading down the stairs.

"Hello? Alright, give me a second."

And then she heard the front door open and close.

She quickly pulled out her phone.

No new messages.

She flipped it open and her fingers glided over the buttons at top speed.

Im sry. Couldnt respond b4. R u still there?

She began to chew on her thumb nail, a habit that often came out when she was extremely nervous.

She waited for what felt like an eternity until her phone buzzed.

Her eyes darted to the screen.

Yes. Give me a minute and then I'll call you.

She let out a relieved breath.

Okay, so he wasn't that mad at her.

She chuckled and shook her head.

She was going insane over this man.

Just then her phone vibrated again.

She looked at the screen.

It was Jake.

She flipped it open and was about to say 'I miss you' when that dread took over again and hung over her head. She didn't say a word. The dread wouldn't let her.

She heard fast breathing on the other end and it wasn't the kind she had come to associate with Jake's calls.

This was angry. Angry and...worked up.

Her heart twisted painfully.

Was he really angry at her?

What had she done to make him so mad?

She went to ask him but again, that damn dread prevented her from doing it.

And then she heard it in the background.

"Ness?"

Bella stopped breathing and she felt a chill go down her spine.

Oh...shit.

"WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING ON MY PHONE?!"

"You just fucking stay away from him, you hear me! You come near him again, I'll fucking end you this time! You understand me?"

"GIVE IT TO ME RIGHT NOW! GIVE ME THE FUCKING PHONE!"

Bella could hear a scuffle in the background as Jake struggled for the phone.

"I'll fucking finish what I started last time, you fucking bitch!"

"SHUT THE FUCK UP!"

"I mean it! Stay the fuck away from him!"

"HANG UP! HANG UP RIGHT NOW!"

"Stay the fuck away from my husband, you fucking slut!"

"CLOSE YOUR PHONE! RIGHT NOW! DO IT!"

Bella then realized he was yelling at her, telling her to end the call.

And so she did.

But not before she heard Ness threaten her.

"I'll fucking find you! I am gonna fucking find you! And I'm gonna kick your lying whoring skanky ass if you ever touch him again, you fucking slut! You hear me?"

"SHUT THE FUCK UP! CLOSE IT NOW!"

Bella snapped her phone shut.

She stayed there for a moment, motionless.

Silence.

Nothing.

And then she walked over to the door and closed it quietly.

She then pressed her back against it and slid down to the floor into a crumpled heap.

She dropped her phone to the floor and lowered her head into her hands.

That was it.

She couldn't change her number or close out the account because it would be too suspicious once Edward mentioned it to Ness (which she was sure he would), Ness would know it was her.

If she didn't already.

Ness had Bella's number now.

It didn't matter that it was listed under Brady's name in Jake's phone.

It didn't matter that when Ness next called it, only the numbers would spout back at her on the voicemail prompt.

It didn't matter what story Jake quickly spun to try to cover for her.

It didn't matter.

She was caught.

~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~

Bella stared at the TV screen unseeing. Edward was next to her, his hand in hers, rubbing his thumb back and forth on her skin gently.

He moved closer to her and she laid her head on his shoulder.

He kissed the top of her head.

She would enjoy these last few moments with him, savoring the love and peace before the tornado of chaos would surely hit, destroying everything in its path.

Every time his phone rang, she jumped.

He would give her his crooked smile and kiss her forehead.

"Love, it's just my phone. I'll hurry. Don't move."

And then she would grab him and place an ardent kiss on his lips, thinking it would be the last time she would ever get to.

They would then pull away, Edward most unwillingly, and he would chuckle.

"Definitely don't go anywhere, love. I'll be right back."

Bella would smile meekly at him and then turn back to the screen, wondering if her marriage had come to an end with a few measly rollover minutes.

And each time, her fears would turn out to be unfounded. Edward would return to her side, smiling wider than before, grasping her hand within his and entwining their fingers. She would lay her head back down on his shoulder and he would kiss her head again. And everything would be peaceful once more until the annoying tone would sound out into the air around them, starting the anxious process over.

And each time she kissed him, she knew.

She was scared to lose him.

But this...this absolutely terrified her.

She wasn't in love with him anymore.

She still loved him, but she wasn't in love with him.

She was in love with Jake.

And that scared the fucking shit out of her.

Not because of Jake. No.

But because it meant that things would have to change sooner than she wanted, regardless of the whole Ness drama from earlier.

She knew the truth of Edward's words from before because they were true for her as well.

Edward was her life.

He had been the only one for her, the only one she wanted.

They had been so happy, so perfect, until that happened.

Bella winced.

If that hadn't happened, would they still be happy and very much in love with each other? Or would they still have gotten to this point?

Her phone vibrating in her pocket jerked her off of memory lane and back into the present.

She sighed.

Her phone had not stopped since five minutes after Ness' impromptu phone call.

Jake had texted her nonstop, called her, even left voicemail messages which was something they both agreed not to do. Ever.

She just couldn't. She was still shaken up after that harrowing call.

She knew it was cruel to make him wait. But she just needed some time to let her brain sort through everything. Her marriage was about to end and she wanted some time to just sit in this blissful sphere with Edward before everything hit the fan. She knew it was selfish of her but she couldn't help herself. Edward had been her life for so long. She couldn't ignore that and just run to Jake. She couldn't.

Her phone vibrated again and she groaned.

She slowly got up and made her way to the bathroom, Edward being in the next room on the phone making her escape a little easier.

She went in and shut the door behind her. She locked it and flicked on the light. She then made her way to the toilet, lowered the lid and sat down. She pulled out her phone and opened it.

16 new text messages, 31 missed calls and 4 voicemail messages.

Shit.

She took a deep breath and hit the 'send' button.

She held the phone up to her ear, tensed in anticipation.

"You have four new voicemail messages. First voice message from today at 7:02 p.m."

"Bells, I know we said we'd never leave each other messages but this is too important." She heard him sigh tiredly. "Baby, I'm sorry. I just left my phone for a second... Baby, please. I need you to talk to me. Please. Call me right back. It's me. Just me. I'm out of there now. Call me please. I love you, baby."

Bella could feel the tears welling up in her eyes again. What the hell was she doing?

She hit the '7' and waited for the next message.

"Next voice message from today at 7:26 pm."

"Bells, please. I'm begging you. I've been calling you and calling you. I need you to pick up and talk to me. You've got me really worried right now, honey. Please. If you're mad and don't want to talk to me, then just text me back. Something. I'm going crazy here. Please, baby, I need to know that you're alright. Just...call me back. I miss you, baby. So much. I love you."

The tears silently started to trail down her cheeks. She hit the '7' again and held the phone back up to her ear.

"Next voice message from today at 7:42 pm."

"Baby," Bella closed her eyes. His voice was huskier but...broken. "You need to call me. I can't do this, Bells. Not again. Please. You're killing me. Just..." She heard him sigh again. "Just call me. I love you."

Bella turned and flushed the toilet. And then she popped up, turned on the sink, and sat back down. She wiped her cheeks and hit the '7' before putting the phone back up to her ear.

She wasn't doing this to hurt him. Not at all. God, he sounded so hurt, so defeated.

"Next voice message from today at 8:36 pm."

"Bells," Bella let out a choked sob. His voice sounded so worn down, strangled almost. "Don't do this. Please." His voice broke at the end and then there were sounds of movement and then nothing.

"End of new messages."

Bella hit the '1' and listened to it again. The tears were flowing helplessly. Her shoulders were shaking with small restrained sobs. She had to call him. She needed to. Right now. She had no idea she was hurting him so much.

A beep resounded in her ear and she pulled the phone away to look at the screen. Jake was calling her. She sniffled and picked up the call, bringing the phone back up to her ear.

She waited. If that's one thing Ness had taught her from before, it was that. Regardless of how much Jake assured her it was him or how many times he'd called her. Another loud sniffle escaped her against her will.

"Bells?"

She started to cry right when she began to try to talk to him. She was pissed that she couldn't get herself under control but she couldn't seem to. She couldn't stop long enough to take a deep breath.

"Baby? What's wrong? Talk to me! Tell me what's going on!"

She only cried harder. He sounded frantic, so worried. How was it she kept hurting him? She loved him so much.

"Bells! Stop crying and tell me what's wrong! Did something happen? Are you alright?"

She struggled to take a breath. It fought her but she won. A small victory in a time where it felt like there were none lately.

"J-Jake."

"Baby, talk to me. What's wrong, honey?"

She fought for another breath, gasping in the effort.

"Bells? Oh God, baby, I'm sorry about earlier. I fucked up. I'm sorry. Please don't let this break us. Please. I-"

"I-I need you."

"Bells?"

She let out a ragged breath.

"I need you, Jake."

She sniffled and wiped her nose on a tissue she had gotten from the box by the sink which still happened to be running.

Silence. She could only hear his breathing. She closed her eyes tightly.

"P-Please."

His breathing accelerated and Bella felt her heart drop. Had she screwed it all up? For good this time? God, she couldn't be without him. The thought of it made her chest hurt, never mind her whole body.

"Bells."

She held her breath, waiting to hear her worst fears confirmed.

"I'm on my way."

~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~

Five minutes later, Bella came out of the bathroom with a freshly washed face and her phone in her pocket.

Edward was back in the living room, sitting on the couch, waiting for her.

He smiled up at her.

"I wondered where you went off to, love. Everything alright?"

Bella nodded and sat down next to him.

"Yeah, just had to use the bathroom."

He chuckled and picked up her hand again and interlaced their fingers.

He kissed her hand and then pulled her close to him, kissing the side of her head.

"I love you, Bella. So much."

She smiled wanly and kept her eyes on the screen in front of them.

"I love you, too, Edward."

She felt so bad for doing this, but she couldn't deny it to herself any longer. She needed Jake. Right now. She needed to feel him, feel his warmth, his love, his skin against hers. A need that could never be overshadowed by Edward. She was starting to realize that now and it only made her feel worse.

Just then the house phone rang. Bella pulled away from Edward and got up, slowly so as not to arouse any suspicion.

"I'll get it."

She said it almost forlornly, like she was more than annoyed at having to move from her current position in his arms. Edward smiled up at her and the guilt flowed throughout her chest even more. She smiled meekly back at him and then walked off to the kitchen.

She placed her hand on the ringing handset, praying to whoever would listen that it wasn't Ness, not yet anyway, and then picked it up.

"Hello?"

"Is he in the room with you?"

Bella let out a sigh of relief as she placed her hand over her pounding heart in a bid to slow its out of control rhythm.

"Just say yes or no."

"No."

"Okay, give it a minute. He will be."

"How-"

"Keep it to yes or no, Bells. Nothing else."

"Okay."

He let out a long drawn out sigh.

"How are you doing? Any better than a few minutes ago?"

Bella began to gently drum her fingers on the counter, another nervous habit of hers.

"Yes."

"Good. I'm glad to hear it."

Bella remained silent, not able to say anything else as he instructed.

"This won't take long, Bells. Relax."

She nodded, forgetting that he couldn't see her, beginning to pace.

"Bells, stop pacing and acting all nervous. Or else this isn't gonna work."

Bella froze. How the hell did he know she was pacing?

Her eyes flitted to the window but didn't see anyone.

She was just about to say something, his instructions be damned, when he spoke again.

"Alright, he's heading in there. I want you to do exactly what I say when I say it. Got it?"

Bella nodded once more, shock still paralyzing her ability to speak. Her eyes were darting back and forth to the two windows looking in the room. Where the hell was he?

"Yes, Bells. Say yes."

"Yes."

"And stop looking around. Do you want this to work or not?"

"Yes."

"Good. Now do exactly as I tell you."

Just then, Edward walked into the kitchen, making her turn around to look at him. She hoped she didn't look like a deer caught in the headlights 'cause she sure felt like one.

"Who is it, love?"

Bella opened her mouth to speak when Jake's voice piped up in her ear.

"Look straight at him, Bells, and tell him it's a solicitor."

"A-A solicitor."

She heard Jake sigh. "Shit, Bells. We really need to work on your acting skills. I don't know how you've been making this work for six weeks. Sheesh. Your husband must be a real dumbass if he hasn't picked up on it by now. Why don't you just hold up a sign in bright lights that says 'I'm having an affair' next time? Might be more subtle."

Bella's anger flared. She wanted nothing more than to yell at him but she couldn't right now. She pinched the bridge of her nose in annoyance and gathered her wits quickly.

"Love, just hang up. Don't let them get to you like that. You're too nice sometimes." Edward walked over to her.

"Bells, you need to look up at him and say, 'She wants to know if you'd like to change your service. She thinks you're not happy with what you have.' Do it, Bells."

She sighed and looked up at Edward, dropping her hand.

Edward frowned at her and held out his hand.

"Love, I can handle it if you like. If it bothers you that much. Here."

"Do it now, Bells! Or else this isn't gonna work. Do it!"

She was fuming. She was gonna have to talk to him about his bossiness. What the fuck?

She stared up at Edward and the words came tumbling out of her mouth.

"She wants to know if you'd like to change your service. She thinks you're not happy with what you have."

Edward stilled his hand for a moment and looked at her, his eyes narrowing. Bella felt the first surge of panic. Shit, what if he wasn't buying it?

Edward then reached for the phone more insistently.

"Let me handle it."

He sounded pissed. Shit. Jake was right. Why didn't she just hold up a sign next time?

"Relax, Bells. You're doing perfectly. He's reacting the way he should. This is what we want. Relax, baby. Breathe."

Bella did as he said, she concentrated on breathing, meanwhile staring up at Edward with her own narrowed eyes. She just hoped she wasn't giving everything away.

"Bella, I said, let me handle it. Hand me the phone."

Bella narrowed her eyes further. What was with his sudden attitude? Shit, he had to know.

She covered the mouthpiece with her hand.

"Edward, it's no big deal. Just tell me, do we want to switch our phone service or not? I don't think we need to, but it's your call."

She then let the mouthpiece go and Edward dropped his hand.

He stared at her.

"No. We don't."

Bella nodded.

"Perfect, Bells. Perfect. I couldn't have planned that better myself. You're doing perfectly."

"No, my husband says we're okay. But thanks for the offer, though."

"Alright, we gotta get off the phone quickly. Give him a few minutes and then text me when you're free."

"Yes."

Edward stepped towards her, speaking a little louder than before.

"Tell them to put us on their do-not-call list and to never call here again. I won't have them annoying my wife like this."

Bella frowned at him. What the hell? Did he really know? Was he gonna ambush her when she got off the phone? Fuck!

"Relax, baby. Just do as he tells you."

She cleared her throat.

"Please put us on your do-not-call list if you wouldn't mind. My husband doesn't want another sales call."

"Yeah, I'll bet he doesn't."

Bella's frown intensified. Oh, she was gonna make Jake pay for this one. Definitely.

"Okay?"

"I love you."

"Yes. Thank you."

"Text me as soon as you can, Bells."

"Okay."

"I'll be here, baby."

His voice was huskier than before and it made her knees turn into Jell-O. She held onto the counter next to her for support. Edward didn't seem to notice. He was still watching her.

"Well, thank you and have a nice night."

"I love you."

He had whispered it and she wanted nothing more than to say it back, but she couldn't.

"Okay, thanks."

Then she turned the phone off and placed it on the counter.

She looked up at Edward and rolled her eyes.

"Sorry. I know you don't like it when I let them go on. But I just hate being rude. It's not an easy job they have, you know."

Edward stepped closer to her, his eyes lit with a fire she didn't recognize.

She gulped quietly, wondering if he now knew her transgressions against him. A part of her wished she had Jake's voice in her ear, guiding her once again.

"I know. But I don't like them bothering you. Next time, I tell you to let me handle it, you let me handle it. Alright?"

Bella narrowed her eyes further if that was possible.

Damn, he must know. Why else would he be acting like this, a side she rarely saw in him?

Edward wasn't a guy that you could make angry easily. In all their fights, he had always remained the grounded, more logical of the two. When she had yelled and cursed at him and even slapped him once or twice, he had always been calm. Very rarely did he ever lose his temper. And even more rarely, did he ever lose it with her.

But right now, he looked downright pissed.

"Okay. I didn't think it was that big a deal, Edward. But if that's how you want it-"

"That's how I want it."

Bella's eyes widened a little but she nodded in acquiescence.

"Okay. Next time, I'll let you handle it."

Edward nodded himself, looking down.

Bella cleared her throat and went to head back to the living room.

He grabbed her arm, preventing her hasty exit.

He pulled her up against him and pushed his lips to hers forcefully.

He kissed her hard, passionately. Her arm was still in his iron grip and there was nothing she could do. If she stopped him now, he would definitely know. If he didn't already.

He pulled away, breathless, as was she.

"I love you, Bella. Don't ever doubt that. You're my life, my love, the woman I'm meant to be with the rest of mine. We're going to be happy again. You'll see."

Bella stared at him in open-mouthed confusion.

What the hell?

He didn't wait for her response. Instead he kissed her, taking advantage of her parted lips to slip his tongue inside.

She hated it. She felt guilty for feeling that way towards him, especially since that declaration, but she couldn't help it. She just...it just didn't feel right especially when it was Jake she was wishing was kissing her and not him. She hated herself so goddamn much.

He pulled away and kissed her lips and then her forehead.

"I love you."

He whispered it to her hairline and his lips lingered there.

"I love you...too."

He hugged her tighter and pulled away, smiling the smile she always loved to see on him.

"Let's go back in there and finish watching that movie. What do you say, love?"

She gave him a small smile. "Sure."

He held her hand in his and led them to the living room.

About twenty minutes later, Edward turned to her.

"Love, I forgot. I just have to call Emmett real quick. He called earlier while you were on the phone and I told him I'd call him back but I never did. I'll go call him now and be right back."

Bella smiled again and he leaned forward, kissing her.

"Mmm. I love the way you taste, Bella. So...good."

He smiled wider and then left the room. Bella cringed at the memory of those words she had spoken to him only a day ago.

She heard him go upstairs and head into the office, closing the door.

Bella rolled her eyes.

Must be more business.

She pulled her phone out quickly and texted Jake.

R u there?

She winced when she remembered asking that question earlier and getting his rabid wife instead.

The screen lit up and the device vibrated in her hand.

Jake was calling her.

She answered, breathless, waiting for him to speak first, confirming it really was him.

"Outside. Patio. Go through the garage. Go quietly and make it fast."

"You-"

"Now, Bells. You don't have a lot of time."

"Okay."

She flipped the phone shut, looked where Edward had gone quickly even though she hadn't heard him come out of the office, and then bolted towards the kitchen as quietly as she could.

She opened the garage door as silently as possible and stepped into the darkness. She carefully made her way to the moonlight that was spilling from the window of the patio door. She opened it and then Jake stepped in front of her, a few feet away. His chest was heaving in and out as was hers. They stared at each other for a moment before Bella ran and jumped into his arms. He caught her effortlessly and she wrapped her legs around him. She kissed around his face and he did the same to her. She worked her hands into his hair and grabbed short little fistfuls, slightly tugging.

She pulled back a little and whispered to his lips.

"I need you."

He nodded and turned, carrying her to a spot on the patio that hid them well in the darkness. Even if the light was turned on from the inside, they wouldn't be seen. How Jake knew that, Bella didn't think to ask. Right now she just needed him.

He leaned her back up against the wall of the house and kissed her lips.

"I love you. I'm so sorry. I love you."

Bella shook her head.

"You have no reason to be sorry. I do. It's my fault. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you. I'm sorry. I feel like all I do is keep hurting you. And I don't ever want to do that, Jake. I love you. So much, Jake. So goddamn much."

She pressed her lips to his, clenching and unclenching her fingers in his hair.

"I love you."

He sighed against her and hugged her tighter.

"I love you, too, Bells. So fucking much you don't even know."

She smiled and kissed him again. She released his hair but began her usual feather light touch, making him close his eyes and lean his forehead against hers.

"Are you okay, baby?"

Bella nodded.

"Why were you crying th-"

"Jake, please. I'll tell you everything later, I promise. But right now, I just want you here with me, holding me." She moved forward and kissed him again, effectively silencing his worries.

She then broke away and hugged him, burying her face into his neck.

"I don't mean to sound clingy or whiny in any way, but one day is gonna be hard to be away from you, Jake."

He didn't say anything, just let out a breath.

"I miss you so much, it's killing me." She shot up then and looked at him. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that. I'm not making this any easier on you, am I?"

He cupped her left cheek and began to stroke it tenderly. But still, he didn't say anything. He just stared at her sadly.

She groaned. "I'm sorry. I just...I just miss you. I'm sorry."

He chuckled. "Bells, you really do make me think you're bipolar sometimes. You know that?"

She glared at him.

"Gee, thanks. If I'm so crazy, then what the hell are you doing with me?"

He shook his head and smiled.

"I like 'em crazy, Bells."

She removed her arms from around his neck.

"Yeah. I noticed."

He laughed and held a hand up to his heart.

"Ouch."

She scowled at him and made a movement to try and get down.

He held her fast and rolled his eyes.

"Relax, Bells. I'm only kidding with you. I just meant you're always so back and forth, in everything you do. I thought we weren't going to do any more back and forth, honey."

She sighed and stared at him.

"I'm not trying to be, Jake. Look, I get this isn't easy for you, especially since you're leaving Ness, but this isn't easy for me, either. I thought we talked about this."

He sighed and moved them over to a chair. He pulled it into the corner they had been in and sat down with her.

"We did, Bells. And I'm not pushing. I'm not. I just want to make sure you're not gonna hit the panic button and end this between us before we've had a chance to have some time together. I really thought that's what you were doing earlier. Again. It scared the fuck out of me."

Bella's face fell and she dropped her eyes to his chest, biting her lip.

Shit. She really hadn't meant to make him think that. Fuck, they were away from the shore finally and yet this shit still was going on. What the fuck did they have to do to stop worrying, to stop being scared?

"Jake, I'm sorry. I just...freaked out. I'm not gonna lie, that call from Ness really scared me. I mean, I almost said something but by some grace of God, I didn't. But that doesn't change the fact that she has my number now and it's only a matter of time before she knows. If she doesn't already. And that's it. I mean, we're done. It's over."

She felt Jake stiffen against her and her eyes flickered to his.

His eyes were wide and he stared at her helplessly.

"Bells, you can't fucking do this to me again! Not after everything! Not after today!"

Bells went to cover his mouth but he dodged her.

"Shh!" She glanced back at the house, waiting for a livid Edward to come charging out towards them. But after a couple of minutes of silence, nothing happened.

Bella sighed in relief and turned back to Jake who was watching her with tight eyes.

"Jake, that is not what I'm talking about. Will you get a grip? I just meant that we're caught, it's over. Edward will know soon, too, and then that'll be it. Our secret will be out. So, we're pretty much fucked. That's all. I never once thought of ending it with you."

The ice cold gaze he directed at her was slowly starting to melt.

He looked down.

"Oh."

Bella sighed and hugged him close to her. She began to gently stroke the top of his back that she could reach from this position.

"I love you, Jake."

His hands made their way under her shirt and began to rub her back tenderly. His touch sent fire running through her veins. But she needed this right now. She needed his touch and the way it soothed her and calmed her fears.

"I love you, Bells."

She buried her face into his neck again and he softly kissed hers and her shoulder.

"You don't have to worry, baby. I took care of it. I'm taking care of everything. Taking care of us. Okay? I just want you to relax and not worry about a thing. The only thing I want you worrying about is what sexy bathing suit you're gonna wear for me in the next couple of days."

Bella pulled back and narrowed her eyes at him.

"I could have sworn I told you what would happen if you brought me back down the shore."

He smirked.

"This is gonna be a lot nicer than the shore, Bells."

Her eyes narrowed further.

"Where are you taking me exactly?"

He smirked wider. He kissed her nose.

"That's for me to know and for you to find out."

She glared at him and he chuckled.

"You can give me the death ray eyes all you want but you're not getting it out of me, so give it up."

She tightened her thighs around his waist, making him stare up at her with that fire in his eyes.

"I bet I could get it out of you."

He stood up with her and placed her against the wall. He grinded against her once, making her gasp. She felt all of him as he rolled his hips again.

He placed his mouth at her ear as he watched her gasp once more.

"I bet you could."

He rolled his hips and thrust his very obvious erection right up against her covered core and held her there. She looked at him with half-lidded eyes. She wanted him. Right. Now.

She was about to tell him that when his grin grew even bigger, knowing he had her no doubt, and he whispered to her.

"But it seems to me that the non-sex quota has been filled for the day. And considering that we want to keep that no-sex rule intact for our trip, I think you're gonna have to hold out until tomorrow."

He pulled away and let her down to her feet gently, the smile never wiping off his damn face. She scowled at him. He got her all hot and bothered on purpose, using her rule against her. Bastard!

"And you call me a cocktease."

He laughed at her growl.

"Okay, technically I can't be a cocktease considering you don't have one. Secondly, don't start something you know you're not gonna finish."

He leaned down and kissed her lips before whispering to her.

"I think a cold shower would do you some good."

She pushed him away angrily and he laughed again.

He threw his arms around her, holding her to him even though she didn't return the embrace, far too pissed at him.

"Come on, Bells. You have to get back inside, anyway. You've been out here a while now. I think he might still be on the phone but still, better safe than sorry, know what I mean?"

Bella dropped her head against him and wrapped her arms around him. She had forgotten all about that in her lusty haze.

He kissed the top of her head and stuck his hands under her shirt again, rubbing her back.

"It's only one more day, baby. After that, we'll have all the time in the world for that and more. I promise you."

Bella nodded, still not looking up.

"One more."

He hugged her tighter.

"One more."

She sighed and lifted her head to look up at him.

He smiled warmly at her and she leaned forward and kissed him.

He kissed her back just as sweetly and then pulled away, dropping his arms and taking her hand.

"Come on, baby. You've gotta get back in there."

Bella pouted but followed him.

Then a thought hit her.

"Jake, where are you staying tonight?"

"The shop. Seth couldn't have me over tonight and I didn't feel like getting a room since we're leaving soon anyway. You know? No point in wasting the money when there's a perfectly good couch there."

Bella stopped him and frowned.

"But, Jake. You said the couch sucked. Don't you want to sleep in a bed? Why couldn't Seth have you over?"

He shrugged. "His girlfriend was over and I got the feeling that...tonight they really wanted to be...alone. I mean, Seth wouldn't have cared but I don't really want to be asleep on his couch, hearing that, you know?"

Bella shook her head, smirking, imagining Jake trying to hold a pillow over his head to block out the moaning and mattress creaks. She remembered all too well how much it bothered him last time to hear other people having sex while he wasn't having any himself.

He saw her smile and grinned goofily at her.

"You laughing at me?"

She did laugh. "I can just see you, on the couch, throwing a pillow over your head, trying to muffle the sounds. For such a perv, you're such a prude."

She giggled and he growled playfully and grabbed her, holding her against him still laughing.

"Not nice, Bells. Not nice at all. You know I'd be missing you and it'd be hard for me and you're laughing at me?"

She gasped for breath, still fighting the giggles.

"Y-Yes. Very h-hard, indeed." And then she broke into hysterics. He covered her mouth to try to drown out the volume and he chuckled into her ear.

"You're an idiot, Bells. But for some strange reason, I still love you."

He kissed her temple, shaking his head.

Bella pulled away from his hand and leaned forward, kissing him.

"I love you, too, Ass."

He laughed against her mouth and then slid a hand down to her butt and slapped hard.

She yelped into his lips and he smirked against hers.

"Your fault. You mentioned it. Plus, I don't appreciate being laughed at. I think you definitely deserve to get spanked for that one. Just wait. I'm gonna have to teach you a lesson over our break. Just you wait."

She pulled away, her eyebrow arched as high as it could get.

"Oh, really, Mr. Black? You think you can teach me a lesson? I highly doubt that."

He arched his brow right back at her.

"Ooh, sounds like a challenge, Ms. Swan."

She did a double take.

"Did you just use my maiden name?"

He smirked wider.

"Yeah, I did. Is that a problem?"

She snorted and shook her head.

"I guess not. So, seriously, where are you taking me?"

He groaned and rolled his eyes.

"Bells, get your ass back inside already."

"What? I just want to know. What's wrong with that?"

He chuckled at her petulant whine.

"It's a surprise."

"But I hate surprises."

"Yeah, I know. That's why it is one. Now, seriously, get back in the house before I grab you and run away with you."

She smiled sexily at him as she pulled him closer by his jacket.

"I wouldn't mind."

He dropped his hands to her ass and clapped them both over her cheeks and pulled her into him, making her gasp.

"You sure you really want to start that again, Bells?"

She shook her head, clearing her throat as she moved off of him.

"No, no. We're good."

Jake shook his head at her, grinning. He knew just as much as she did that she was not looking forward to the cold water she would be stepping into in the next fifteen minutes. No need to lengthen her time in there.

"That's what I thought."

She glowered at him and he laughed.

"Alright, my little sex addict, get back in there."

She held his hand in both of hers, playing with his fingers.

"Will you...will you call me later?" She winced. God, she sounded like she was in high school. How had he reduced her to this? How?

He lifted his other hand to her cheek.

"If you want me to."

She nodded.

He leaned in and kissed her.

"Okay, baby. Text me when I can call you and I will. I promise."

Bella nodded again but leaned in to kiss him more.

"Babe, you have to go back in. Okay? We've been out here too long."

Bella frowned but nodded once more, pulling away and heading back to the garage door.

Jake leapt forward and reached for her hand.

"Bells."

She spun back around, looking him at questioningly but walking back to him all the same.

He grabbed her by the hips and pulled her into him, kissing her roughly.

Bella opened her lips before he could even ask her to and in the next second, his tongue was moving against hers. They grabbed at each other and Bella hitched her right leg up around his waist. He held it up for her, never breaking the kiss. She could feel his hard length against her once more.

And then, just as quickly, the kiss ended.

They were both breathless as Jake lowered her leg and pulled back.

"J-Just wanted t-to tell you..."

Bella waited for him to speak, struggling to pull air into her own lungs.

"I-I love y-you."

She took a deep breath to try and steady her rapidly heaving chest.

"I-I love you, t-too."

He nodded, still gasping for oxygen that wouldn't come fast enough.

"N-Now get in t-there bef-fore I change m-my mind."

She nodded in response and turned to walk back to the door.

But then she quickly changed course and ran to him, grabbing his face and pulling him down to her again.

She kissed him hard.

And then she whispered to him.

"I-I love y-you."

And then she ran to the door before he could say anything.

She smiled back at him and walked into the garage, enveloping her in darkness once more.

~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~

Strangely enough, Edward hadn't even known she was gone.

He hadn't come out of the office yet. She sat on the couch, staring at the screen, but not before checking herself in the bathroom to make sure she looked okay, and waited for him to come back down.

And half an hour later, he did.

"Sorry, love. Em and I were going over things we need to address in the meeting tomorrow."

Bella shrugged and smiled.

"That's okay. No biggie. I just paused the movie and watched TV instead."

He gave her that apologetic smile again and sat down next to her. But this time, she didn't make a move to be close to him and neither did he.

She yawned. Granted it was only a quarter to ten but she wanted to sneak away and talk to Jake. He was still on her brain, tormenting her, making her miss him even more.

"I'm tired, honey. I think I'm gonna head up to bed early tonight. It's been a long weekend and I've got to be in the shop tomorrow."

Edward smiled and nodded.

"Good idea. I think I'll come up with you."

She inwardly grimaced.

Crap. How was she supposed to have Jake call her now? Shit.

She plastered on that fake smile again.

"Sure."

She yawned again for good measure and stood up, stretching.

He turned off the TV and held out his hand to her.

She took it a little hesitantly but not enough to make him wonder.

He turned the lights out and led her up the stairs. Once they got to the room, Bella pulled away from him and turned towards the bathroom.

"Be out in a sec."

Edward was unbuttoning his shirt.

"Take your time, love."

Bella smiled and closed the door behind her.

She pulled out her phone, sighing and sitting down on the toilet.

Dont know if I can get time alone. It doesnt look like hes moving from my side.

She closed her phone and placed her chin in her hand and her elbow on her knee as she leaned forward. She really had wanted to talk to Jake.

Bzzzzzzzz

Thats ok baby. Well talk tw. Call me as soon as he goes 2 work in AM. Ill be up. Love u.

She frowned.

R u sure ur going 2 b ok on that couch?

Her phone vibrated half a minute later.

I told u babe. Ill b fine. Dont worry so much. Love u. Tho it sux not having u here w/ me. If my backs gonna hurt in AM, Id rather it b 4 that reason. ;-)

She laughed silently, shaking her head at him. He always knew how to make her smile.

I love u.

Bzzzzz

I love u. Sleep good 2nite babe. Dream of me.

She smiled.

I already do. Every nite.

She knew she shouldn't have sent it but it was the truth. She truly did. Well, not every night, but every other night, absolutely. She grimaced. She wondered if she would dream of him again, waking up, missing him horribly like she usually did. Just like she had the past few nights.

Bzzzzz

Love u Bells. I wish u were here. Cant wait 2 have u all 2 myself & sleep w/ u 4 real.

She smiled more, feeling lighter than before.

So r u saying that all this time we havent been rele sleeping 2gether?

His response was quick.

I dont know, Technical Police. U tell me.

She bit her lip to keep from laughing.

Technically, I guess not. Sleeping 2gether would require sleeping and since we dont, then I guess ur right.

Usually am.

Hey! What happened 2 me being right all the time?

Im not getting laid so why should I keep lying?

Bella's mouth dropped open.

Ur horrible. Is that all that matters 2 u?

She knew him better than that but she couldn't resist teasing him.

Of course not. But ur the 1 who started the no sex rule. Not me.

Bella rolled her eyes.

A bit irritable, r we? & Im the sex addict?

Blue balls isnt fun, Bells. & yes u r. Remember outside earlier?

Funny, I seem 2 remember helping u 2 relieve that condition earlier 2day.

Do u know how many times a day I get hard 4 u? U think once is rele gonna help that?

She knew he was just teasing her back. She bit her lip again to keep from laughing.

Poor baby. Sounds serious. Maybe u should c a dr about that.

Only 1 I should c is u. & I will b, for 4 days straight, over & over & over & over again.

Uh huh. In the babymaker, yep, heard it b4. Well c.

Nope. In the cooter. Like that 1 much better. ;-)

Her teeth dug deeper into her lip, almost making it bleed.

I cant believe u just spelled out cooter.

I cant believe u said it.

Ugh. Ur an idiot. Howd we get on this topic anyway?

U started it w/ ur technical crap about sleeping.

Ur the 1 who said we werent rele sleeping 2gether! I was just trying 2 clarify.

U know what I meant.

Sure, sure.

She smirked. She threw his signature catch phrase at him.

Miss u Bells.

Miss u too.

Get some sleep baby. Ill talk 2 u in AM. Love u.

She grinned mischievously.

When u say sleep...

Nite Bells.

She smiled and shook her head.

Nite Jake.

She closed her phone and started her daily routine of getting ready for bed. When she was finishing up washing her face, her phone vibrated loudly against the counter. She grabbed it quickly hoping Edward hadn't heard it.

She flipped it open.

What? No I love u back? Is this about the sleep thing?

Bella held a hand over her wet mouth to keep from laughing.

She patted her face dry with the towel and then responded.

What? R u saying u were wrong about that?

She placed it on top of the towel in the counter to try to help the sound should he respond before she got done changing. She pulled her pajama pants and tank top out of the cabinet behind her.

Sure enough, she heard the muffled vibration against the counter.

She picked it up and glanced at the screen.

Yes. Ur right, Im wrong.

True but ur still not gonna get me 2 break the no sex rule. So stop lying.

Hey! Im not lying. Besides, Im pretty sure I could have gotten u 2 break it 2nite.

In ur dreams, buddy.

Yep. U will b. Im gonna make u break it & have u begging 4 more.

She drew in a quick breath.

How would u get me 2 break it?

He didn't respond so she sent him another message.

In ur dream I mean?

Now, now, Bells. I cant tell u or it wont come true.

Thats wishes, u idiot.

Same difference. Either way, Im not telling u.

Y?

Bcuz.

Bcuz y?

Bcuz I said so.

Jake! I wanna know!

Now whos the sex addict?

She glared at the screen.

Tell me or that blue balls is gonna get a lot worse over our trip.

Cruel! Well, thats y God created lotion & Playboys.

Eww. TMI. & God didnt create those. Men did. Sick, disgusting, perverted men like u.

Ouch, Bells. That hurts. I dont think Im disgusting.

She shook her head.

No baby. Ur definitely not. Sorry. Ur just a perv, thats all.

Yeah but u love that about me. U love that I can think up 1000 diff ways 2 make u cum.

Bella bit her lip. Damn him.

Is that how u plan 2 get me 2 break the rule in ur dream?

Man, u rele wanna know, huh?

Nah. Its fine.

Yes u do!

Nah. Its ok. I dont rele wanna know.

Ur such a liar, Bells.

Nope. I rele dont wanna know.

Yeah u do. Liar.

Nope. Gonna head 2 bed. Nite Jake. Love u.

He didn't respond. She frowned.

He knew she was just playing with him.

Right?

Then her phone vibrated.

He was calling her!

Shit.

She flicked the switch for the fan and turned the shower on. She wasn't planning on taking one but now she didn't have a choice.

She flipped the phone open and was about to say something when she heard his husky voice whisper to her, more gravelly than normal.

"I'd slowly undress you, licking your skin from top to bottom as I did. I'd lay you down in front of me and I'd massage your breasts, making you moan that sweet little moan you always let out when I do. I'd take a nipple into my mouth and lick around it before pulling on it with my teeth. And then I'd suck the shit out of it before doing the same thing to your other nipple. Then I'd lick my way down to your beautiful pussy. You'd be hot and so fucking wet for me, like you always are. I'd lick around the edges, teasing you, licking up your slit a few times before taking your clit in my mouth. I'd-ungh-play with it with my tongue, making you squirm and beg for more. And then I'd suck on it while fucking you with two of my fingers. My-uh-index and middle finger, making sure to give it to you hard and fast like I know you like it. And just when you couldn't take it anymore, I'd stick my tongue in your pussy and fuck you with it. I'd make you come so fucking hard, screaming for me, your hands in my hair, pulling like you always do. You'd be moving around but you'd watch me as my tongue thrust in and out of you, and I'd drink up all of your juices flowing into my mouth. You'd have trouble breathing but be begging for more. I'd kiss my way up your sexy body until I reached your lips. I'd kiss you and you'd taste yourself on me. You'd lick all around my lips, whispering how good you taste on me. How good we taste together. And then you'd reach down and grab my cock and-fuck-squeeze it hard. You'd beg me to put it inside of you-shit-hard and fast. Fuck. I'd spread your legs wide and ram it into you, making you scream. I wanna fucking split you open, baby. I'd fuck you hard and fast, my balls pounding your wet pussy. I'd be driving into you so hard, they'd slip inside you at times. You'd be fucking screaming, telling me how you need to feel me inside you, how you want my cum inside you. And I'd-oh fuck Bells-push harder and faster. We'd be on a bed, in the place where we're going and the headboard would be fucking knocking against the wall, practically breaking it as I slammed into you over and over again. Right in the fucking babymaker. You'd scream for me to fuck you harder and I would, yelling how much I fucking love you, how I want you to come all over my cock, how I want to come deep inside you. You'd-ungh-you'd beg me to go deeper, harder. I'd pull out and flip you onto your knees. I'd shove my cock back into you hard and you'd scream and push back against me. I'd fucking ride you, grabbing your hair and yanking it-uh shiiiit-and with my other hand, I'd slap your ass over and over, each slap harder than the last. I'd get that ass all nice and red for me. You'd still be screaming, begging me to fuck you even harder, to go faster. I'd pull you to the edge of the bed so I could stand and fucking pound the shit out of you. And as-oh fuuuck-I pumped you, I'd lean over you, covering your back with my chest, feeling that fucking amazing skin of yours on mine and I'd tell you how much I love you. I'd tell you how I'm about to fucking explode inside of you. Oh shit, Bells. I'm a-about to f-fucking come! You're so hot and wet and...tight! Shit! Oh baby, I'd fucking ram it into you! I wish you were here right now, I'd fuck the shit out of you! Fuck! I'd pull back and smack your ass hard, making you scream and your pussy would tighten down on me and I'd fucking-Shit! I'd fucking come hard deep inside of you just like you wanted me to. Oh God, baby, like right-fucking-NOW!"

Her mouth was hanging open.

And then she heard that groan and she knew he was emptying out onto his stomach.

That fucking tight delicious stomach of his.

She hated that she wasn't there with him.

She'd definitely be breaking that fucking rule right now, the need to keep it intact be damned.

She heard him panting, breathless from his efforts.

"A-And th-hat is h-how I'd get y-you t-to break the ru-ule, Bells. I l-love you, ba-by, sl-eep well. I'll t-talk to y-you tom-orrow."

And with that the line clicked off.

Bella pulled the phone away from her ear and stared at it helplessly.

She closed it and placed it down on the counter, turning around and moving towards the tub.

Looks like she was going to need that cold shower after all.

Fucking tease!

~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~

Bella had eventually made it to bed, Edward fast asleep after waiting for her.

Freshly showered (and somewhat shivering thanks to the ice cold shower she had to take because someone had to tease her mercilessly earlier), she had hopped into bed and fallen instantly asleep, thinking about how she would get him back for such torture.

And before she knew it, it was morning. She felt Edward lightly kiss her head as he left for work.

"Have a good day, love."

She murmured sleepily.

"Thanks, you too."

He smiled and kissed her once more before leaving.

Bella waited until she heard the front door shut and then heard the ignition turn over in his car. A few moments later, she heard the engine get further and further away.

She leaned down and pulled her phone out of its hiding spot, taking it off silent. No new messages. Bella frowned and slowly pulled herself up sitting in bed, yawning as she did.

Jake had told her to call him.

She glanced at the clock.

6:47

She groaned. So early. Even though, the garage opened at 8, he couldn't really be awake now. Could he?

She flipped open her phone to text him when a thought hit her.

Why not pop on over there and thank him for last night?

Her grin grew wider and wider as she thought of just how she would torment him.

Her decision was made and she was out of bed, rushing to the bathroom to brush her teeth.

~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~SWM~~~~~~~~~

She pulled up to the garage, parking in the spot Jake always told her to park in so her car would remain unseen in case anyone passed by.

She grabbed the tray with two coffees in it, one for her and one for him.

They had met up at the coffee shop often enough that Bella knew how he liked his coffee.

Black and two sugars.

Bella smiled and shook her head.

She got out of the car and slowly made her way up to the open bay.

She thought it was strange for it to be open but maybe Jake had gotten up early and was getting some work done. He had said the couch wasn't all that comfortable. She frowned.

She wished he would get a room, even if it was only for one night. This way he wouldn't have to stay here and he'd have a real bathroom and a shower and a bed... Maybe she could entice him into doing it even if they were leaving tomorrow. She smiled at the thought.

She walked into the bay and saw Seth over at the counter, getting some tools together.

His head snapped up when he heard her approach.

Bella smiled wider.

She liked Seth. He was very laidback and shy and nice to her. Even though Bella had only recently come to know the real story of Jake's marriage, Seth had always treated her kindly. And it had always shocked her. Surely, he must hate her for seeing a married man. And Seth wasn't an idiot. He knew to steer clear of the office once the door closed and locked. And he made sure to give them their privacy, turning up the radio for the guys in the shop and making sure they made a lot of noise, using drills and such. Or whatever those tools were called.

Seth reminded her so much of Jake sometimes. They looked a lot alike. So much, in fact, Bella would always ask Jake if he was sure that Seth wasn't some sort of cousin of his, removed twice on his father's side or something. Each time, Jake would glare at her and would stick out his bottom lip in that adorable pout.

"He has a girlfriend, you know."

And each time, she would laugh and kiss that pout off his face, making him smile again.

Bella reached Seth, beaming brightly.

"Hey Seth. How are you?"

Seth rubbed the back of his neck, his eyes flickering back and forth between Bella and the closed door leading to the office.

"I'm good. How are you?"

"Good. I'm sorry, if I'd known you were here, I'd have gotten you a coffee, too. You can have mine if you like. It's light with skim and sweetened with Splenda but caffeine's caffeine."

He gave her a small smile.

"Thanks, but I'm okay."

Bella smiled bigger.

"Is he up yet?"

Seth lowered his voice and stepped closer to her.

"Yeah. Listen, Bella, maybe you should get out of here for a bit. Come back in a little while."

She narrowed her eyes at him in confusion.

"Why?" She made sure to lower her voice just like Seth did, although she wasn't entirely sure why.

He looked uncomfortable and his eyes flickered towards the door once more before drifting back to her.

"It just might be a good idea. I'll tell him to give you a call when he comes out."

Bella was frowning now.

"But, Seth. I came here to see him. I have to go to work and don't you guys open in less than an hour?"

Seth grimaced.

"I know, Bella, but...now's not a good time. Just...come back in a little while, okay?"

Bella swallowed.

What the hell was going on?

Seth had never said anything of this nature to her before.

Had something happened?

She ignored him and turned to climb the steps to the door.

She managed to get up a few before Seth gripped her shoulder lightly, halting her progress.

He leaned in to whisper to her.

"Bella, I don't think you want to go in there just yet."

She stared at him incredulously and whispered back.

"What? Why?"

He stared at her, not responding.

Bella turned back towards the door, ignoring Seth's hand, and that's when she heard it.

A woman's voice.

"I love you, Jake. I'd do anything for you. And I know you love me, too."

Bella's chest tightened when she heard nothing but silence.

And her heart fell when the sound of smacking lips made its way out to her.

The tears stung her eyes as they fought to break free and roll down her cheeks.

She turned to leave when Seth caught her by the shoulder again.

She whispered her torment to him.

"Please, Seth. Let me go. I don't want to be here. Please just let go."

A choked sob tacked itself onto the end of her plea.

Seth pulled her into him and hugged her close.

"Bella, just give him a minute. Just a minute."

Bella shook her head and tried to pull free but he held her fast.

"Trust him, Bella. Just like he trusts you."

She stopped struggling and looked up at him.

He looked at her meaningfully and she swallowed.

Seth was right.

And even if Jake was breaking her to pieces this very moment as the smacking sounds continued, she should at least give him the chance to explain.

She gave Seth a curt nod and he let her go.

It killed her to stand there, listening to the sickening noises, making her stomach churn into itself, but she did it.

And then she heard a small moan.

That was it.

She moved fast so Seth couldn't grab her and she began to ascend the steps to the door when another sound stopped her.

"Ness, cut it out! I told you! We're done!"

Sobs began ricocheting in the room.

"Jake, please! I do love you! I can't be without you! Please!"

She heard Jake's chuckles. "Right. So that's why you kept fucking him? Even after I begged you to stop and stay with me? Please. Don't fucking try it, Ness. This was a long time coming. I'm just sorry I let it go on as long as I did."

Ness cried louder. "Jake! I'm begging you! I don't-I don't love him like I love you! Please! You know I love you! And I know you still love me!"

Jake sighed. "No, Ness. I'm sorry. I don't. I did in the beginning but...things are different now."

Ness sobbed even more. "This is because of one of your whores, isn't it? This is the final fuck you to me, is that it?"

"No, Ness. Believe it or not, this is strictly between you and me. I don't want to stay married to you. This has nothing to do with anyone else. Well...except...him. But other than that, no one else."

"Bullshit! Who is it, Jacob? Hmmm? It's Rose, isn't it? I fucking knew it!"

Bella shook her head and she heard Jake groan angrily.

"Will you fucking get off that one already? I told you, nothing ever happened with Rose! We fucking hate each other and I would never do that to Emmett! So just let it go for Christ's sake!"

"If it's not Rose, then who is it? Bella?"

Bella's heart stopped.

"Are you fucking kidding me? You're really just grasping for straws now, aren't you?"

"It's her, isn't it?"

"No!"

"Well, then, who is it?"

"Ness-"

Bella's heart resumed its frantic beat and she began to breathe.

"Oh God, it's Leah, isn't it? I always fucking knew-"

"NO! NO, NO, NO, NO, NO! Stop this shit and just fucking accept this for what it is. We're over! And that's it!"

She heard Ness cry harder. A part of her did feel bad for the girl. Even though Ness had made her own bed and she had hurt Jake, she still pitied the pain the poor girl was feeling. She couldn't imagine ever feeling that broken and devastated. Well, actually she could, but-wince-not from that angle anyway.

"And besides, even if I was leaving you for someone, it wouldn't be any of your business. You've been fucking someone else for the past year, Ness. The past fucking year! And now all of a sudden, you want to be my wife? Come on. I'm not fucking falling for that one again."

"J-J-Jacob, I'm sorry! I am! I never did it to hurt you! It's just-I couldn't-let him go."

Bella understood what she meant. Wasn't she in the exact same position? Oh God, would this be her and Edward someday? She hoped not. But she couldn't even begin to bear the thought of losing Jake..."Save the thinking for later." She nodded her head. She would do that. And she banished those thoughts as quickly as they had come.

"I'm sorry to hear that, Ness. But now...now you won't have to worry about it anymore. I'm letting you go so you don't have to let go of him. And regardless of all the shit we've been through and all the crap we've done to each other, I really do hope he makes you happy. In ways that I never could."

His voice broke on the last word and Bella's heart broke for him. She wanted nothing more than to go to him and wrap her arms around him and hold him to her, protecting him from the pain this woman was still inflicting on him. Somehow, deep down, she knew Jake still loved her. But that didn't mean that this wasn't hard for him. She knew that. He had fought for this marriage long and hard and resisted accepting that it was over. Way before he even met Bella. This was hard for him. She understood.

"Don't fucking patronize me, Jacob! You don't want me to be happy! If you did, you wouldn't be doing this!"

Jake laughed. "Okay, Ness. Whatever. Think what you want. Bottom line, sweetie. We're finished. I want a divorce and I'm not changing my mind. So stop calling me and texting me. Stop calling Seth and the guys, looking for me. Don't come here anymore. I don't want to see you again unless we're signing the divorce papers. Got it?"

Ness screamed at him, making Bella cover her ears for a moment and Seth wince.

"I FUCKING HATE YOU, JACOB! I CAN'T BELIEVE I EVER MARRIED YOU! HOW DARE YOU!"

Jake laughed again. Bella frowned. Really not the best time for him to be getting humor out of the situation it would seem.

"Ness. You need to leave. Before you scare my customers. Plus, don't you have to go to work? Or see him or something? He can go to the house anytime now that I'm not there. That should make things a bit better for you, shouldn't it?"

"GO FUCK YOURSELF! YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO LOVE ME, JACOB! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU'RE DOING THIS! I SHOULD CALL HIM! AT LEAST HE CAN FUCK ME LIKE A REAL MAN SHOULD!"

Bella gasped. How could Ness say that to him? If Jake had wronged her first, that would be something different. But Ness had been the one to cheat first. And with that guy. How could she say that to him? Emmett was right. She was a bitch.

Jake scoffed. "Yeah, Ness, I'm sure he can and does quite often. Can you please leave now?"

"Ever wonder why I stayed with him so long, Jakey? Ever wonder why I REFUSED to give him up for you? For all your fucking pathetic whiny attempts to get me to 'help you to make it work'? Because he knows how to fuck me. Fuck me just how I like it. He knows how to use his dick. Shame you don't know what to do with yours. I can't believe I ever let that small ass thing inside me. I never felt anything when you were pumping away at me. Nothing! I never did. And eventually I got fucking tired of faking it. But him, he's a fucking god compared to your shrimp of a dick. I feel him. Each and every time. I fucking feel him. He measures up in ways you never could, no matter how much you pathetically tried. You're nothing compared to him."

Bella's mouth dropped open and she slowly placed the tray of coffee on the step in front of her, off to the side.

"That's nice, Ness. I'm sure he'll make you very happy. I wasn't enough for you. I know that." His voice broke at the end and Bella's heart broke right along with it.

"Nope. You never were. And you never will be."

That was it!

Bella rushed to the door but Seth was too fast for her. He clamped a hand down over her mouth and grabbed her, dragging her down the steps while she struggled.

She wanted to rip that fucking bitch apart!

Seth whispered in her ear.

"Shh. Calm down, Bella. Jake can handle himself. Calm down. He wouldn't want you busting in there right now. Trust me. Come here."

He dragged her back into the shop into a corner and forced her to sit down on a ratty old chair, at a table well hidden in the back.

No sooner had Seth plopped her in the chair when the door to the office burst open and Ness came storming out of it.

Seth growled at Bella.

"Stay here. Do. Not. Move."

She glared at him but did as he said.

Ness charged down the steps, knocking the tray of coffee out of her way, spilling it everywhere but not stopping to care.

Seth approached the steps, waiting for her to come down so he could head up.

"This fucking nasty disgusting SHOP! Get the fuck out of my way, Seth!"

He moved and smirked at her.

"Gladly. I don't want your skank ass anywhere near me."

She sneered and screamed at him next. "FUCK YOU, YOU PIECE OF SHIT!" She then turned her nose up in the air and continued on her way, leaving the garage.

Bella sprung up out of her chair and was about to rush to the stairs when she heard Seth yell to her.

"Wait!"

Bella froze, waiting.

Sure enough, a car started and then sped away, squealing tires echoing as it left the parking lot.

Bella made a dash to the stairs, practically knocking Seth over in her bid to get to Jake. She couldn't care less whether Ness saw her now or not. Ness ought to be fucking scared of her. Not the other way around.

She rushed up the stairs and stepped in the door, stopping at the sight she saw.

Jake was sitting down on the couch, hunched over, his elbows on his knees, his head in his hands, his eyes closed.

Bella's chest was heaving in and out from her mad dash and she took a step toward him.

"Jacob."

His head popped up, his dark eyes staring at her.

"Bella."

She swallowed and made her way over to him. He watched her as she moved.

She lifted her right hand and placed it on his left cheek. She stroked his rough unshaven skin there with her thumb.

"Are you alright?"

Jake stood up and removed her hand from his cheek. He stared at her and then turned to the door. He stepped up to the frame and leaned halfway out of the door.

"Seth! We don't open for another half hour. Get these guys out of here and get some breakfast or coffee or something. Then come back."

Guys? Bella hadn't seen anyone else. Oh shit, had they witnessed the whole thing? She had only seen Seth. Not that these guys didn't know who she was, she wasn't worried about that, but had they all heard how Ness had spoken to him? Shit.

"Aww Jake, man, I just got here. And I wanted to fix this shit in my car before we started-"

"Paul! I said get out of here! Now! Do that shit later!"

"Come on, man, do as the boss says. Let's go."

Leave it to Seth to try to keep everything calm between Paul and Jake.

Jake had told her before of the constant arguments they'd get into.

Paul was always someone he had to keep an eye on for overtime and make sure he got work done rather than flirt with the female customers who came in for oil changes and inspections.

He was the only one of the guys who didn't seem to care for Bella. He had been fine when he didn't know who she was, hitting on her heavily, until Jake came out and put his arm around her, glaring at Paul. Paul then immediately backed off and had kept his distance since.

Paul was a pain in the ass. But, like Jake had said, bottom line, Paul had his back and was there when he was needed. And when he was on task and focused, he got things done and fast.

It was just a matter of dealing with his oh-so-wonderful personality.

She heard Paul start to complain to Seth as they left.

"Just because he wants to get some-"

"Shut up, Paul, and keep fucking walking. Are you suicidal, man?"

Bella saw Jake's fists were clenched at his sides and he was tensed.

Seth had a point. Was Paul suicidal?

Jake relaxed when the voices cut off after the bay door was closed. He turned around and headed into the office, closing the door behind him and locking it.

He then made his way over to Bella.

He stared down at her and she saw that pleading look in his eyes again.

"Bells."

She knew what he needed. And she would give it to him. How could she not?

She sat down on the couch and gestured for him to join her.

He sat down on the couch next to her, and laid down, positioning himself so that his head was in her lap, facing out towards the desk.

She slowly pulled her fingers through his hair and leaned down to kiss his temple.

"I'm here, baby."

He turned around and buried his head into her stomach. He wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tight. She kissed the side of his head and hugged him right back.

"Bells, I can't believe you're here."

His voice was breaking. She held him tighter.

"How could I not be, honey?"

She felt him take in a ragged breath.

"You heard...that...didn't you?"

She nodded against him.

She let her hand thread its way into his hair, massaging his scalp.

"Baby, you know it's not true."

"That I wasn't enough for her?"

Bella kissed his head when she heard the breaks again. She didn't know what to say.

So she said the only thing she could.

"I love you, Jacob. So much, baby. So much."

And then he broke.

He let out a strangled sob and his whole body shook.

She hugged him even tighter as he began to cry, as if she could hold him together, keep him from breaking further.

She kissed his head and his shirt-clad shoulder before laying her cheek against it.

She gently rocked him back and forth in her arms.

"I'm here, my love. I'm here."

He cried a little harder at her words but she only held him tighter and rocked more.

"I'm here. I love you, baby."

He cried and she held him to her.

It was her arms that were holding him together.