A/N: So here is the first official chapter. Let me know what you think.
Disclaimer: SM's characters.
Chapter 2: Green Eyed Angel
BPOV
"Jazzy seriously, can't you just move this shit by yourself? I'm not cut out for manual labor. It's our first day in the city, and I want to go out and see things, not be stuck hauling our crap in all day!" Sure, I sounded a bit bitchy, but hell, I was sweating to beat sixty and we'd just drove non-stop from Texas. I was tired!
"Bell, come on. A few more boxes and the truck's completely empty. Just be thankful we decided not to bring the big stuff with us. But I swear if I didn't know any better, I would've thought you were a girl with all the clothes and shit you brought." Jasper probably wanted me to quit my bitching, but really, the 'you're a girl card'? Come on!
Ok, so I was being bitchy, oh well.
"Yeah yeah, maybe that's because I am a girl, and honestly Jazz, maybe you don't see me as one since we've known each other forever, but really I am. I do enjoy more than t-shirts and jeans every day. I do have some style." I re-did my ponytail and wiped the line of sweat off my forehead. Very lady like I'm sure. "Okay, so the furniture company is gonna be here in an hour and I'd like to look presentable, so let's get this unloading business over with. I can't wait to see everything we picked out!" I clapped my hands excitedly while Jasper looked at me like I had one too many shots of espresso this morning. So maybe I did, what's the big deal?
A few weeks ago Jasper and I came to pick out furnishings for our new apartment deciding that it would just be easier to start fresh than to haul all of our hand-me-downs cross country. This was a new beginning for both of us, why not start out that way?
Jasper rolled his eyes at me but kept working. He knew that the only way the unloading was actually going to get done was if he finished it himself.
That's right Jazz, after all these years of us living together, you should know better than to ask me to do something involving manual labor without bitching for the next 5 days. Come on!
Jasper left me to go get another box from the truck as I looked around our new home with the biggest smile on my face. Our new home!
Today was our first official day in New York City. Jasper, who I've known since I was 8 years old was my best friend and brother for all intended purposes. He's been my rock and shoulder to lean on for the last 18 years, moving with me after my first book was published and became a hit across the country. We've been inseparable since middle school back in Texas, and at the golden age of 18, we moved away from everything we knew so I could attend college in Chicago and he could work with his first love, tattooing at a small shop just a few minutes from our apartment.
That of course was not the only reason for our move, but nevertheless it was the one we gave people. No need to lay all my dirty laundry for everyone out to see.
I started writing in college and two years ago when I started my book I never imagined I could really be living the dream of getting my work published. I'd been on the road much of the last year, flying to and from New York to meet with my editor and for book signings. Jasper, being the loyal friend he is, had accompanied me on every one of my many trips, and gave up his chair at the shop in Chicago.
Jasper never let me go anywhere alone in the last few years and I was grateful for his friendship. During our travels, he would work from time to time freelance, but mostly helped me with the book signings, standing as my manager and bodyguard when needed.
Jasper was very protective of me for good reason. My love life hadn't gone so well, and I was a target for douche bags wherever I went.
It's taken me years to get where I am today, and I wasn't looking back.
My past was my past, and there was no changing history. I know now that I can only move forward. The counselor that I paid oober amounts of money to told me that, and eventually it stuck in my thick brain.
My book was a best seller and I made quite a profit from it. We decided that it was going to be easier to set up shop in New York and start the next chapter in our lives. Jasper and I were inseparable so we made the decision together. We'd always been family to one another and made sure that both parties involved approved every decision that was made. My father passed away when I was 16 and my mother was never in the picture. Jasper's Mama lived back in Texas and kept in touch with us both through weekly phone calls.
Jasper and I were both excited and overwhelmed with the move. I couldn't wait to start on my next book, and Jasper really wanted to get working again, knowing that I wouldn't be too far away. Like he would LET me be farther than a 5-mile radius from him at all times. Funny.
After all the short business trips that we'd taken over the past year, there was nowhere else either of us wanted to be. We loved the city and all that it had to offer. We'd done a good amount of sight seeing on our many little trips and wanted to live this life.
We were ready for this move and what was to come.
It was now 3:30 pm on a Friday afternoon in late August. Jasper had just finished with the last of the boxes and was laying face down on the carpet in our new living room, looking like a truck had hit him. Poor Jazz.
Thank God he didn't complain about all the moving like me, or we would've never gotten anything accomplished. Did I mention I hate moving, unpacking, boxes, getting dirty for anything other than sexual purpose, etc.?
I freshened up a bit and after searching through several suitcases, found something clean to put on. I heard a knock at the door and ran to it giddy with anticipation for our new furniture.
Jasper slowly pulled himself off of the floor so that the delivery men wouldn't trample him.
Smart man.
The movers were fast, moving the couch, love seat and coffee tables into the living room quickly. The brown leather looked awesome with the beige carpet. The entertainment center and flat screen were being delivered tomorrow and our living room would be complete. Jasper's and my bed sets were assembled quickly, and within an hour it looked like we actually lived here. We thanked the movers, and they left as soon as the last item was brought in.
Jasper decided to run to the deli down the block to get us some supper, so I started unpacking. I figured since he did all of the heavy lifting, the least I could do was unpack. I was a good Suzy Homemaker when I wanted to be. Or when I needed to suck up for being a bitch.
I lost track of time and, when the last box was unpacked, I realized it had been three hours since Jasper left to get supper. Apparently, I was really lost in thought while unpacking, as the only reason I'd even noticed that Jasper wasn't back was because my stomach rumbled making itself known. Great friend was I.
I started to worry, thinking the worst because that's where my mind always goes. I called his cell but he didn't pick up. I began to pace, worrying that something terrible happened. I decided to send him a text when he didn't answer his cell to see where the hell he was.
First day in the city and I already lost Jasper.
Good going, Swan!
EPOV
I swear to God, if I have to put another damn tramp stamp on another 18 year old yatch this week, I'm gonna freak. I know, I know, it's money coming in to the shop, but seriously, do girls actually think they're hot when they get the tramp stamp?
Think about the words you put on your skin, so when you're 80 and wrinkly, you can remember again why the word "Bitch" is written in perfect cursive just above your ass.
Okay, so maybe I'm a little cranky. We've been down an artist for about a month now since my buddy Alex decided to get married and move to LA to open his own shop.
The little bitch.
I was having a hard time filling the position, wanting to find someone that would mix well with my style and my brother Emmett who was my right hand man, and of course Alice would have to approve as well. That pixie wouldn't let me live to see another day if she didn't approve of who I was hiring, even though I believe MY name was on the lease of this building, and MY name was next to 'owner' for "City Limits", MY ink shop.
Sure, we had tons of artists who stopped in to check out the 'help wanted' sign in the window, but none of them felt right. I always found excuses for leaving the chair open. Emmett didn't complain about the extra work, so I figured I would just keep waiting for the right man to come by.
So, yeah, I was a little cranky for working so many damn hours. My hands needed a break and I was in dire need of a drink for my own sanity and probably everyone else's. Pull the corncob out of your ass Cullen and grow some balls.
I started drawing up the design for my 6:00 pm appointment when a tall lanky shaggy blonde haired guy walked into the shop. From first appearances, I could tell he was chill. He seemed pretty laid back and from the tattoos that were visible, had nice style.
"Hey man, what can I do for you?" I asked, looking up from my drawing and shaking his hand.
"Hey." He gave me the guy head nod. "You still have an opening for a new artist? I saw the sign in the window while I was walking past and thought I'd stop in." Blondie kept talking the entire time we shook hands.
"Yeah. It's open. Haven't found the right artist yet. My buddy decided to move out to Cali with the new wife a month ago and opened his own shop. I'm Edward by the way. This is my shop." Not sure why I felt I should give this guy the whole story all at once. Usually I made prospective newbies give me their dibs first. This guy was really relaxed and in turn chilled me out.
"I'm Jasper. Just moved from Chicago," he said, again with a smirk on his face, but not the type I would usually feel the need to wipe off for him. Just laid back and cool. "I worked in a shop there for about 6 years, then worked freelance for the last year or so. My buddy and I just moved to the city literally today, and I would love to get back into my art."
Again, I'm not sure why I felt I should give this guy a chance right off the bat, but what the hell. Here goes nothing.
Then Alice walked in with a file in her hand.
"Hey Edw--" Alice looked up towards blondie and ran smack dab into my chest. The corners of her mouth pulled up and she did this flirtatious smile thing at him that made me want to vomit.
Ugh…this is my baby sister. I don't want to watch this shit.
"Alice, this is Jasper. Jasper this is my sister Alice. She does the bookkeeping and piercing for the shop." This time it wasn't just Alice with the smirk; I looked over at Jasper who now had a shit-eating grin full across his face.
I watched as he took her hand and shook it, holding it for a few extra seconds, which in my eyes felt like hours. I thought Jasper was chill, but if he kept this shit up, I might have to wipe that smile off his face for him.
"Ok, yeah, Jasper." I ran my hand through my hair feeling really uncomfortable with the present way my baby sister was ogling this guy. "Um...well if you want to show me some of your work, I would love to see it. I like your vibe, and think you could be a good addition. I have an appointment that should be here any minute -- you wanna give the design a try? It could be like your interview or something." God I hope he's decent. I was letting him ink one of my regulars, so it better turn out good or I was going to spending a lot of time making up for it.
Jasper's eyes got wide. "Yeah, sure man. That would be awesome. I should call my roommate." He fidgeted with his phone before stuffing it back in his pocket. "Aw hell. It'll be fine. What do ya got for me?"
I had Jasper come around to where I was standing behind the counter and showed him the small piece I was working on that was a tribal symbol to add to Jameson's sleeve on his left arm. Jasper took a look at the piece. He could see where I was having difficulty fusing the symbol with other work that was on Jameson's arm, and took over. He was good. Either that or I was just too tired for my mind to think creatively. He was able to mold the two designs together within a few minutes like it was a peice of cake.
I must be too crabby for this shit. Who the hell knows.
The whole time Jasper and I worked, Alice decided that she needed to work on the books at the counter as well, even though we had an office in the back that she usually worked out of. I caught her stealing glances at him from time to time. The smile on her face was permanently plastered there.
So yeah, she's a grown adult. But come on, I like this guy and don't want to have to hurt him later on.
Jameson was on time and after I explained who Jasper was and that he was going to take over this piece, he was cool with it. I sat back and watched Jasper work. He was pretty good. He knew his designs and tools. Jasper gave me a little history on himself while he worked on the tat. He was originally from some small town in Texas where he went to high school, then moved with his friend to Chicago, where he worked as an artist at a little shop. He made a pretty good living off of it, but then decided to do some free lance work across the country saying he needed a change of scenery. Now he was in NYC and ready to settle down a bit.
Emmett came strolling in mid way through Jasper's session and gave me a 'what the fuck?' look, to which I just nodded a 'he's cool man, he's cool.'
Jasper finished his piece on Jameson and it turned out pretty sweet. Jameson was pleased, and of course I didn't charge him for it since I didn't do the work myself. Jameson left, and I gave Jasper a man pat on the back while he was cleaning up the station. Huh, he even cleans up after himself. Emmett could really take a lesson from him.
"You're alright Whitlock. That was some pretty sweet work. I like your style bro. You got any designs that you brought with that I could take a look at?" I liked his work and would like to see more, even though I already made my decision.
"Yeah. I just live about a block away. I can run up and get my portfolio if you want." Jasper was ready to go right now, although I was tired and ready to get my drink on.
"What are you doing tonight Jasper? Emmett, his wife Rose, Alice and I are going out to Eclipse after we close for some drinks. You're welcome to come with so we can hang out and get to know each other a bit more. If you did work here, I would want to make sure that everyone's cool with each other. " With that, I could see Alice's cheeks turn pink, and a smile creep along her lips.
Yeah, I'm screwed.
"Let me talk to my buddy. Is it alright if I bring my roommate along?" I nodded telling him it was cool. Jasper then looked down at his phone and had a worried look on his face. "Shit man, sorry I gotta go. I've been gone for 3 hours. I told my buddy that I was just going down to get us some supper. What time you want to meet up?" I like Jasper, but the way he worries about his 'buddy' had me a bit worried.
"How does 10 sound?" Alice answered for me. I think she was just a bit more excited to spend some time with newby than me.
"Yeah that sounds good. Hey listen, I really gotta fly, but I'll catch you guys in a bit." Alice gave him some directions and we both said good-bye. Emmett was with another customer and didn't really have a chance for a formal introduction, but nodded telling me he was cool with him. Five seconds after Jasper was out the door, Alice fell onto the couch we had by the front door grinning from ear to ear with her hand over her heart.
"Oh my GOD, Edward!! You have got to hire him. He's my dream man, and I just know he's going to be a great addition!" Alice was fucked. Head over heals for a guy she didn't even know yet.
"Alice sweetie," I knelt down next to my little sister and grabbed her hand, "you don't even know him yet. What if he's a major perv? Don't get your hopes up yet."
Alice slapped my hand playfully away. "Eddie, seriously. You know that I have intuition about these things. Jasper's going to work out great. And I think I love him!"
I heard a loud clank on the floor behind me as Emmett stood up. I rolled my eyes at her.
"Allie honey, come on, you just met this fool," Emmett said while he picked up the tool he 'accidentally' dropped. "Let us get to know him just a bit more, before you go giving me a heart attack back here!"
"Yeah and I don't want to have to have a reason for beating the shit out of my new artist," I said with a laugh. I was only kind of kidding…
Alice got up off the couch and started towards the office. "Okay, boys. I'll give it some time. Just know that he's the man I'm going to marry someday!"
Emmett and I looked at each other rolling our eyes, ready to lecture her a bit more, but she just shrugged her shoulders and sauntered off to the office. We are so totally fucked.
My next appointment came in the door and I got to work on their design.
Just a few more hours before I could relax with my family and get to know this Jasper character a bit more.
BPOV
JASPER, WHERE ARE YOU? I'M GETTING WORRIED HERE!
-B
I sent the text to Jazz 30 minutes ago, now frantic that he got mugged in a back alley. I threw on some shoes and a sweatshirt and was just about to go out looking for him when the door flew open, and in walked Jasper with the biggest grin on his face.
Did he happen to get laid on the way home, and if so, damn him and his shit-eating grin!
No food was in his hands. Fuck, I'm really hungry. Not sure why I was thinking about my stomach when I just thought my best friend in the entire world may have been dead in an alley.
"Where the fuck have you been Jazz? I was worried shitless over here!" I threw my hands in the air, glad he was back, but angry for being so worried. "I tried calling and texting with no response. I thought you were dead in an alley somewhere. And I'm hungry too, damn it!"
Jasper swept me up in a hug and kissed my cheek. "Bella, I was walking to the deli and noticed this tattoo shop with a 'help wanted' sign in the window not too far from here. Anyways, I went in and talked with the owner who was pretty chill and he liked what I had to say, and let me tattoo one of his regulars. I'm sorry, I know I should've called, but I just got so into my work." Jasper was beaming from ear to ear. "Oh, and there was this hot chick that works there that I think I might be in love with!" Jasper was kind of a manwhore and didn't usually have this kind of a reaction when it came to a girl he wanted to screw. This. Was. New.
"Whoa, Jazzy!" I pushed against his chest wanting to be let down. "Slow down and start from the beginning. Wait, where's the food? I'm starving!" I growled, looking around him trying to find the non-existent bag of food.
"Fuck the food, Bell!" Jasper yelled in excitement. "I think I may have found a job, and we haven't even been here for 24 hours yet! How about I tell you all about it over supper?" Jasper held out his arm for me, which I gladly took and we went to seek some grub.
We decided to go out and get Chinese a few blocks down the street.
Jasper told me all about his meeting at 'City Limits'. Edward who was our age was the owner, and his sister Alice was 'smokin' hot' as Jasper put it. There was another guy that worked there too, Emmett, but he didn't get a chance to talk to him but he seemed cool too.
Jasper also told me during dinner that we were meeting them all at this bar Eclipse at 10pm. I scowled at Jasper for the lack of time to get ready, but dressed quickly when we got back, settling on a dark blue halter top and a pair of my favorite dark wash jeans that hugged me in all the right places. I paired the outfit with a pair of black boots, left my hair flowing around my shoulders, did my make up and was ready to go.
Jasper looked good as usual in a button down plaid shirt and faded jeans, throwing on some docs to spice up the outfit. I think he was trying to impress this Alice. Usually when we went to bars, it was t-shirts and jeans for him. Jasper was hot. He usually had a swarm of girls around him everywhere we went. I'd never really seen the guy date, but he definitely had his share of 'sleep overs' as I liked to call them. To me, he was just my brother. We tried the romantic thing in high school, but there was no connection. It was too much like kissing my dad.
Jasper had full sleeves of tattoos on both of his arms, a 'Whitlock' tattoo on the side of his neck along with many more that covered most of his body.
Tattoos were hot, and I had to say it was nice walking in anywhere on Jasper's arm. He'd been trying to coax me into getting a tattoo for years, but I hadn't found one that I really wanted. I kept telling him someday, which I knew would eventually happen because I was absolutely in love with anything ink related. Really, I wanted one so badly that if he did get this job, then I would let him ink me, finally.
Eclipse was walking distance from the apartment, which was good so we could drink and not worry about how we were getting home. A little before 10, Jasper and I set out. He was bringing his portfolio with him so he could show his potential new boss over drinks. We'll see how well that works out after several shots.
We arrived at Eclipse and immediately went up to the bar and ordered drinks. It was our first night in the city and I wanted to celebrate. After each of us took two shots, Jasper spotted the group he was looking for. I didn't look up, as the waitress finally took my order. Little bitch took her sweet time getting to me and took the hot blond God on the end first!
I was waiting for another round of drinks and told him I would catch up in a minute. Of course like usual, Jasper didn't want to leave me alone, but it wasn't a big place and I figured he could see me easily enough if he wanted to go look for the guy from the shop. Moments after Jasper left, I felt two hands slide around my waist venturing towards my crotch. I immediately reacted and grabbed the man's hand pulling it backwards.
"Get your hands off of me douche, before I really hurt you." I was still had his left hand pulled back when he cried out in pain. His other hand started to press harder on my hip, grinding me into his package when I turned quickly and kneed him in said package.
That was going to leave a bruise.
"Bitch!" Douche yelled. "You're going to pay for that! Didn't anyone teach you any manners?" He was leaning over me and whispering in my ear. He smelled heavily of whiskey and I felt my stomach churn. "I'd be more than happy to teach you some."
I twisted myself around to face the douche and pulled his hand back tighter. His other hand had moved but still clenched tightly to my hips. His grasp was getting tighter and was really starting to hurt. I was small but had taken several self-defense classes over the past couple of years and knew what to do.
Just as I was about to chew this fucker out, the sweetest voice came from behind me.
"Get the fuck off of her!" Yeah, that was an angel's voice. I felt the pool form between my legs with those few words.
Whoa, wait, not the time to be thinking of that! And really, getting excited from some guy's voice that I didn't even know? It's been too long, Swan.
Angel's voice then grabbed Douche and pushed him back. Douche swung to hit at Angel Voice and made contact with his face. The sound was deafening. Angel Voice didn't even flinch; he just pushed Douche a bit harder. Then one of the bouncers showed up, noticing the riff that was taking place, and escorted Douche out.
As soon as Douche let go of my hip, I brought my own hand up to massage the area where his fingers had made indents.
Definitely will be bruised in the morning.
I bruised easily, always had, so there was no question in my mind that they would be there when I awoke.
I felt a warm hand placed on the small of my back and the angel spoke again.
"Hey, are you okay?" I turned to look at the angel, and OH. MY. GOD! Yup, panties were now completely soaked. Angel voice was at least 6'1 if not taller, covered in tattoos from what I could see, and had both ears and his eyebrow pierced. Oh, and what's that? Oh yeah, the tongue is totally pierced too! Fuck me! His shaggy copper-colored hair was a sexy mess that just screamed 'run your hands through me', which I will gladly do if I get the chance.
He's looking at me funny. Did he say something? Oh right, I think I should answer before he thinks I'm incapable or something.
"What? Oh yeah, I'm fine. Thanks." I couldn't stop staring at him. I felt my cheeks blush and couldn't stop the smile from forming on my face. "Douche didn't have any manners."
"Douche?" Angel Voice cracked a smile, and my panties were getting uncomfortable. That was the most beautiful smile ever.
"Uh, yeah. I called him Douche. Not sure what the fucker's real name is." I started to smile and then began laughing. I was totally embarrassed for how Angel Voice must have seen me staring at him, ogling his Adonis like body.
"Hey, I'm Edward by the way." Angel Voice has a name. Me likes! "You want a drink?"
"Yeah. Vodka cranberry," I said, not taking my eyes off of Edward. "I'm Bella. Oh, I need a Jack and coke for Jazz too. I was getting our drinks when Douche felt the need to mark his territory."
"Jazz?" Edward looked confused.
"Yeah, Jasper's my roommate. He's here somewhere. I told him I would get us another round while he went to look for this sweet tattoo artist he met today. Potential job for him." I took a sip of my drink and looked back at Edward. "Some girl he has the hots for is with him as well, I guess."
Edward looked amused. "Well, Jasper is an odd enough name that I think that I'm that 'sweet tattoo artist' he was meeting up with. And the girl would be my sister Alice. You must be his roommate that he was talking about earlier. Sorry I kept him for so long." Edward's eyes went up and down my body and I blushed realizing he was checking me out. "Now I know why he was worried about getting home."
Ok, this night is going well. Edward is Jasper's potential new boss? And I could potentially be around this angel daily? I could feel my blush heating across my face. Well, that isn't the only heat I was feeling. But that bit of information was beside the point. Bella, you need to say something now!
"Okay. Wow. I hope I didn't just totally embarrass Jasper or myself now. I have a way with word vomit." Shut up Bella!
Edward smiled again, and ran a hand through his glorious copper hair. "Word vomit?"
"Yeah, it's when I can't control what I say." Yup, embarrassed is a good word. "I'm going to stop talking now." I pulled out some money to pay for the drinks and put it up on the bar. Edward's hand grasped over the top of mine and let it linger there.
"No. Drinks are on me tonight." Edward continued to grasp my hand and I was loving the feeling. He gave the bartender a knowing glance. I'm sure he had a tab going.
I grabbed my drink and Jasper's and took a sip of mine. "Thanks!" I murmured. Edward stared at me for several seconds. Does he like what he sees? Not sure. I could see his eyes moving up and down my body again, and was thankful for the bit of liquid courage and the genius who invented the push-up bra.
"So, we should probably go find everyone else." Edward gave me a crooked smile that melted me to the core. I nodded in agreement unsure if I could form a coherent thought.
He grabbed his own drink and let me lead with his hand again on the small of my back. His hands on my body were like fire. I like fire. I had been with a few guys in my 26 years, but this felt like electricity running through me. Did he feel it too? Taking this a bit far, aren't we Bella? You just met this guy. You don't even know if he's interested or if he has a girlfriend. Ugh!!
We made our way to the table where Jasper was leaning in close talking to a short chick about my age with short spikey black hair and a sense of style. She had on a black tube top that showed off her beautiful art work lining her arms, matched with a black skirt, tights and a pair of chucks. She had her eyebrow, nose and lip pierced. Some wicked style if I say so myself. They looked like they were getting cozy.
Edward cleared his throat as we got closer, eyeing Jasper up, and they both looked up with smiles on their faces.
Jasper looked at me and then at Edward who still had his hand on my back. His face fell and I swear he even growled. I shot him a 'shut it!' look confusing the hell out of him. Edward noticed this and interceded.
"Some douche was trying to get on Bella at the bar, and I kindly made my presence known, then introduced myself." Edward was a bit cocky, smiling as he spoke, but I liked it.
Alice's face looked horrified as she looked at Edward's face. "What the fuck happened to your face brother?"
I hadn't realized that when Edward got hit, he was hurt. Not thinking about it, I set my drinks down and ran my hand across his cheek that was just slightly swollen from the blow. Edward leaned into my touch and I swear I heard him moan a little. I wasn't sure if it was in pain or pleasure, but I was hoping it was pleasure.
"Edward, I am so sorry. Are you hurt?" A look of panic crossed my face, knowing that if he was hurt, it was my fault. He grabbed my hand and brought it away from his face, letting our intertwined hands hang between us.
"No, I'm fine." Edward winced just a bit before smiling. "My jaw isn't made of glass. I've taken worse."
So now I was intrigued to say the least. Was Edward a fighter? Was he a bad boy? A rebel? And if so, he obviously could hold his own. I smiled to myself thinking of where my mind was going. I liked bad boys. They need to be spanked. I looked down and began to blush with my mind in the gutter.
Jasper, who was staring at our intertwined hands, stood up to pull out a chair for me and put his arm around the back of my chair trying to mark his territory or something. I gave him a knowing glance and sat down. Edward took the seat next to me and sadly let our hands drop.
As soon as I sat, I let out a small groan as my hip throbbed where Douche decided to mark his territory. I rubbed circles around the area trying to soothe it away. Edward looked at me with a pained expression ready to speak, but Jasper beat him to it. Jasper put his hand over my own.
"Bell, are you okay? What's wrong?" Jasper looked concerned and upset. I knew this look. I'd seen it many times before. I squeezed his hand and smiled at him.
"It's not what you think Jazz." I tried to play it off. "Douche was trying to feel me up and got a bit upset when I tried to break his hand. Don't worry. He didn't get too far."
I could see the knowing look in Jasper's eyes. The look that he's given me so many times before. The look that tells me he was sorry that he wasn't there for me.
Jasper grabbed my hand a bit tighter, which made me jump. Edward noticed this and gave Jasper an evil glance. I interceded to make things clear.
"No Edward. It's okay." I put my free hand on his chest, and he relaxed at once. Where was this confidence coming from? I didn't even know this guy. "Jasper's my buddy, and looks out for me. This isn't the first time something like this has happened. And I'm sure it won't be the last." I said the last part low, thinking only I could hear it.
Edward's face looked pained again, but he didn't say anything. I guess he heard the last part too. He didn't know me though, or anything that I had been through.
I'm not that girl anymore, I kept telling myself. Jasper squeezed my hand again. We knew each other way too well.
"Sorry I wasn't there for you Bell." Jasper looked saddened. I shot him a smile and kissed his cheek. If I didn't know any better, Edward looked pissed.
Was he jealous? Hmm....
Really, was I having to go back and forth between my best friend and a guy that I'd just met? What was this, a love triangle?
"Not a big deal. I'm fine." I tried to shrug it off again. Trying to change the subject off of me, I said, "So, Jazz, this's Edward. Small world."
Jasper smiled and rubbed his hands over his face. "Yeah. This's who I met up with today. Weird how this night's turning out." You and me both buddy. You and me both.
The pixie that had Jasper's attention gave me a smile, which I returned quickly. I noticed that I was being rude and hadn't even introduced myself yet. Yeah, way to make points with the family Swan. Ogle the brother and totally ignore the sister.
"Hi, I'm Alice, Edward's sister, bookkeeper, piercer extraordinaire." I reached out my hand to shake hers, but she suprised me by getting up and ran around the table to hug me. I embraced her hug and laughed a little at her forwardness. "And you're Bella. Jasper was telling me about you while you were at the bar. I think we're going to be great friends."
I laughed and hugged her again. The little pixie has energy. Seems like she drank one too many Red Bulls before she came out tonight. Edward spoke up as he laughed and shook his head as he took a drink.
"Okay Tink. Let the girl breathe. You can do all of your friends talk later. I want to see some of my man's designs here." Yup, back to business.
As Jasper and Edward looked through his portfolio, Alice and I got to talk. She worked at the shop with her brothers Emmett and Edward, and liked fashion. I also think she had a thing for Jasper. Just a hunch that I had. The guys were very much into shop talk when Alice grabbed my hand and excused us to the bathroom. Both guys looked over with an amused expression. Edward's face however, looked concerned. Does he think the little pixie is taking me away and never coming back?
As soon as we got in the bathroom, we both freshened up and started our gossip.
"So, is there anything between you and Jasper, Bella? Or is he free game?" Alice was powdering her nose and waiting for an answer.
"No Alice. Jasper's my best friend, and is 'free game'. " Alice's smile grew larger. "In fact Alice, when he got home from his meeting today with you guys, he looked pretty excited about this girl he met."
"Oh yeah, well I was pretty love struck by this guy I met today too." The little pixie was beaming from head to toe.
"Hey Alice, so what's your brother's story?" I didn't look at her, afraid to hear that he had a girlfriend or something.
"He's definitely single. Edward doesn't date much. Says he just hasn't found anyone worth wasting time on. But I swear, every girl that comes into the shop throws themselves at him." Alice was blunt, but to the point. I'm okay with that.
"So I shouldn't waste my time then?" I asked worried again for her answer. Please say you think that I'm worth wasting time on, please!
"You, my dear Bella, are just what he's been looking for. I have intuition about these kinds of things." Alice beamed, looking into the mirror. "I seen the way he looks at you, and the way you both have been touching. Edward doesn't let just anyone touch him like that. Usually it takes him a long time to let anyone into his life."
With that, we made our way back to the table arm in arm like we were old friends. Edward and Jasper were no longer alone. There with them sat a big muscular bear of a man and a beautiful blonde super model. Alice and I took our seats, and I downed the rest of my drink.
Ready for another one.
"Bella," Edward started, "this is my brother Emmett and his wife Rosalie. Guys this's Bella, Jasper's roommate."
They both shook my hand. Although Emmett was huge, he reminded me of a teddy bear. Rosalie was quiet but seemed friendly enough. All three of the guys went into more shop talk while the three of us girls went to the bar together for more drinks. The guys didn't take their eyes off of us, and were ready to pounce at anytime. I found out that Rose was a model, go figure, and that Emmett worked with Edward at the shop. All in the family. I told them about my book and the tour that I had just finished. They both seemed intrigued by the book, and I told them I would get them copies if they wanted.
We made our way back to the table in time to hear the best part of the conversation.
"So, Jasper," Edward began, "I like your style, and I would like to offer you the open chair at the shop. You can pretty much pick your own hours, and work on your designs in your free time. What do you say?" Cha-ching!
"That's awesome!" Jasper was grinning from ear to ear, and looked at me for approval. I smiled back in agreement. Edward noticed this and looked confused. "When can I start? And is it okay if Bell's around? We just moved to the city, and I don't feel comfortable leaving her alone for long periods of time." I kicked Jasper under the table for treating me like a child and was about to chew his ass when Edward spoke, staring intensely at me.
"Bella, of course you're welcome around the shop as well." Edward's voice melted me once again but his eyes moved back to Jasper almost immediately. "We have plenty of space to just hang out or work if you need to. And Tink would probably love the company, usually being just around us all day."
Alice gave her brother a knowing smile, and then grabbed me in another hug and started a giddy laugh. The boys finished up their shop talk, and Jasper decided he wanted to take his portfolio home so it didn't get lost at the end of the night. Alice offered to walk with Jasper back the few blocks to our apartment.
Not too sly guys.
Of course before he left, he made sure that I was ok with him leaving me alone. Well actually, Alice told Edward and Emmett that they were responsible for me.
I got up and started towards the bar to get another drink when I felt an electricity flow through my arm. I looked back to see Edward's hand on my arm.
"Where're you going?" Edward asked, his voice dripping hot with sexiness.
"To the bar for a drink?" Or to my bed to make sweet sweet lovin' to this Adonis in front of me. It came out more of a question I guess. "Did you want one?"
Edward got up and walked beside me. "Yeah, I think I need a drink as well. I'll go with you."
As soon as we got up to the bar, we were both quiet.
Awkward.
We stood there next to one another, not talking when I felt hot breath on my ear and an arm wrap around my hips, pulling me backwards. Ugh. Not again.
This is why I don't go to the bars, too many drunks that think they own the place!
"Hey sexy. Wanna get outta here? You look like you want some fun, and baby, I am all about the fun," Douche 2 whispered into my ear. He smelled like rum and sweat.
There goes my stomach.
Edward glared at the man, and Douche 2 let go of my waist and backed away, slowly.
"Damn it Bella!" Edward looked all hot and bothered. I liked it. "Can you go more than a few hours without attracting douche bags?"
That pissed me off. Like I wanted this attention. "Sorry Edward, it isn't like I'm begging these fuckers to put their grubby hands all over me!"
He blew out a large breath of air, and again ran his hands through his hair. "Fuck, that isn't what I meant. Bella, you're so damn hot, and these losers can't seem to control themselves. Some guys don't have any manners. I'm not mad at you, it's just annoying, frustrating I guess." He didn't make eye contact and stared down at his glass.
I seductively put my hand on his hip and inched forward until I was whispering in his ear. "So Edward, you think I'm hot do you?" Come on big daddy, tell me what you think… Not sure if I was liking the person I was around Edward. One minute I was mad at him for making assumptions, the next I wanted to jump his bones.
Edward snaked his arm around my waist and roughly pulled me to him, whispering in my ear. "Bella, if I wasn't such a gentleman, we wouldn't still be standing here like this. I don't have much control, so I can't guarantee that I will stay a gentleman for long. Don't push it."
Not sure why I wore panties, they just became soaked...again. Edward moved my hair behind my shoulder and skimmed over the skin with his nose. I let out a small moan and moved myself closer to him. I swear I heard him groan as well when our bodies made contact.
Our drinks came and we pulled apart. I slammed mine down in one shot. Edward followed suit and did the same. We ordered up a round of shots and proceeded to take those as well. My liquid courage was now in full swing. On our way back the table, Edward wrapped his arm around my waist, and seductively whispered in my ear.
"Dance with me?" Edward asked. I nodded, afraid I wouldn't be able to speak.
Edward led me to the dance floor, as "Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon came on. Edward wrapped his arms around my waist pulling me to him closer, as I wrapped mine around his neck. Edward sang verses in my ear, and I was thanking God that this man was holding me up, as I felt me knees give out.
Emmett and Rosalie joined us shortly, followed by Jasper and Alice who I didn't see snuck back in.
I think we are going to like living in the city. This could be a good group of friends to hang out with. And Edward, well, I didn't think I could put him into words. He was amazing, beautiful, perfect.
As the song came to an end, Jasper tapped me on the shoulder for a dance. Alice must have run to the restroom. I didn't want to give up my spot with Edward, who looked upset when Jasper put his arm around my waist, but I didn't want to hurt Jazz either.
I saw Edward make his way towards the bar then lost sight of him.
"So, Bell, what's going on with you and my new boss?" Jasper's face turned serious and I felt like a child being scolded.
"Jazz, I don't know. I don't know him. But he seems like a pretty decent guy, and I think he is totally fuckable." I laughed, and Jasper rolled his eyes. "Work with him for a while and get to know him, let me know what you think."
"Okay, I can do that. He seems like a pretty chill guy." Jasper looked troubled. "I just worry about you being hurt Bell. I don't think I could watch another man hurt you. It isn't right for you to go through anything else. You've dealt with enough and deserve some happiness. And if he hurts you, I won't be afraid to fuck him up, weather I like him or not."
"I know Jazz. I'm leery too," I said. "But let's just get to know this guy first before we judge him too much. And Alice seems pretty great too."
"Yeah, I think I like her. A lot." Jasper began to blush. I know that blush.
"Jasper, you didn't!" I knew what he did. Fuck. I smacked his chest and he just looked down, not wanting to make eye contact. That little perv.
"I think she's my soulmate, Bell." Jasper looked guilty.
"Jasper, you fucked her after knowing her for what, only a few hours?" I asked. "Please tell me you kept it to your bed. Mine is still brand new, and I want to be the one to christen it." With Edward that is.
"Yes, Bell. My room. Best sex I've ever had." Jasper was now totally blushing, and a huge smile crept along his lips.
"Yeah, well hopefully her brothers, who are your new buddies, won't be too pissed. She being their little sister and all." I started laughing at the possibilities as his body went stiff.
This should be interesting.
Alice came back and we danced together for a few more songs. Edward however, didn't return. I asked if anyone knew where he went getting a few shaking heads that didn't seem too concerned. Edward looked pissed after he saw Jasper ask me to dance. But Jasper and I were just friends. I thought that was clear, and if he watched how Jasper and Alice were getting along, he'd realize that. But what did it matter anyways? I'd just met this guy a few hours ago. Not like he'd made his claim or anything.
Oh, well. I'd see him eventually I guessed. Yeah, that isn't soon enough, but I had the contacts to get to him, so that was good. I can't say that I wasn't disappointed though, I really liked Edward. Well at least what I know of him so far.
At closing time, we walked back with Alice, Emmett and Rose. I guess it was a smaller world than I thought. They all lived in the same building as us. Alice and Edward shared an apartment; Rose and Emmett another. Edward and Alice even lived on the same floor as us, just down the hall. Emmett and Rose were two floors up. Jasper gave me a piggyback ride home as my liquid courage made me less graceful than usual.
We all said good night and went our separate ways.
Jasper and I collapsed as soon as we shut the door. My new bed felt like heaven.
Our first day in the city was over. It had been a long day, but ended with happy thoughts.
I closed my eyes and began to dream of the green-eyed angel that would now be in my nightly thoughts.
A/N: So...what do you think?