Disclaimer: i do not own twilight or any of the well known names and places i used in my story. I am merely borrowing.

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Chapter 22

The Christmas Ball

EPOV

"How did it go?" I asked Bella after we pulled out of the parking lot.

"Well, not as bad as I expected. But no feelings were stirred in me," she looked over at me and I guess I looked puzzled. "I mean I just feel the same as yesterday or the day before that. Though I admit that it did feel good to get things off my chest, but it really didn't change anything." she explained.

"I see. So what would you like to eat?" I asked.

"Uhm, I know we just had Ivar's last night but I really need some clam chowder, and you know they're the best," she said then stuck her bottom lip out. How could I say no to that face? She was just simply adorable.

"Okay, what the beautiful lady wants, she will always get from me," I said as I ran my knuckle across her rosy cheek. I parked across the boardwalk then helped her out of the car. We crossed the street and lined up at the counter.

"Is that all you want?" I asked. She looked up at the menu and read over it.

"I also want scallops and clams. Oh, you can just get me the scallops and the Pier 54 clam bake?" she said. I nodded and placed our order. I decided on a Grilled sirloin and prawns. We then stepped aside to wait for our food. After a few moments she placed a kiss on my cheek, "I love you."

"As I love you," I replied then kissed her on the lips. Our order was ready and we decided to dine al fresco and watch the seagulls as well. She looked so carefree when she ate. I just love the way that even the small things can make her smile. I must have been staring for a long time because the next thing I knew she was waving a hand in front of my face. "Sweetheart, are you okay?"

"Yeah, sorry, I was just amazed at you eating. You must be really hungry since you are eating with such gusto," I said and smiled my crooked smile at her.

"I just love this. It's one of my comfort foods," she explained. We finished our lunch in peace then we drove back to their house. The rest of the afternoon we decided to just take a walk on the beach. I joined their family for dinner and left at about 11:00.

Once I got home I saw Jasper sitting by the fire place in the living room. "Hey, bro, you been home long?"

"Hi, not really, about twenty minutes. Your parents actually just went up. Penny for your thoughts?" he asked.

"Oh, I was just thinking about Bella and me," I responded as I went over to the kitchen to grab a beer from the fridge. I opened the bottle then headed back to Jasper on the sofa.

"Wanna talk about it? Just between us guys of course," he offered. "Yeah, why not?" I answered. "Okay, let me just get a refill," he got another bottle of beer and went back to sit beside me.

"So, what's on your mind?" he asked.

"Well, we've been together only a few months and I know in my heart that's she's it for me. I don't want anyone else. Is that weird?" I asked.

"Well, no not really, I knew I was in love with Alice after about a week. I know she can be extreme but we seem to complement each other well," he explained.

"I took her to see her ex today and I had a run in with Tanya when we went to New York," I told him, and he nodded. "How did those go?" he asked.

"Well, with Tanya I basically told her what Bella means to me. The she came on to me like a relentless bitch. She would text me once in a while asking about Bella, even more after we saw her at the club. Then Dad told me about Dr. Wyeth and apparently she's building the structure for the foundation. How she heard about our outpatient clinic is beyond me," I explained then took a sip of my beer.

"And how did Bella's meeting go?" he asked.

"Well, I actually had to persuade her to do it. That day we went to Pike Place we bumped in to an old friend and he wanted them to talk since her ex was in town. They didn't have a good break up. He just sent her an email and she never heard from him again. They talked a while, then I asked her how she feels, all she said was 'just like yesterday'. She's such a strong person that she had found closure on her own. It's endearing really," I explained.

"She is really magnificent; the three of them are actually. They're very head strong and never lose focus. Did you know that the east coast branch will be adding Bella's name to the company?" he asked. Bella never told me that. Hmm, I wonder why.

"No I didn't. Those were the contracts that they had to finish?" I asked and he nodded as he took a swig of his beer. "She never really ceases to amaze me. You know when she said goodbye to her friends I saw her say something to a red head whom I assume is the wife of her ex. When she turned to me I took a quick glance back and her jaw was hanging open while the others tried to hide their chuckles," I said and we both laughed about it.

"But seriously bro, if you think she's it then she's it. I can see that you complement and care for each other dearly. You don't hold each other back and when the other is down you are always able to pick each other up. I'd love to attend a wedding soon," he teased which caused me to punch him in the shoulder.

"I guess you're right. I have actually mentioned it to Renee and I think I'm good on that front. I'll talk to Charlie tomorrow," I said then looked at my watch. "Hey, let's head to bed before the pixie scolds us for having bags under our eyes," I said as we stood up and disposed our bottles and made our way upstairs.

"Yeah, I totally agree to that. Night, Edward," he said as he approached his bedroom door.

"Night, Jazz." I said as I headed into my room, removed my clothes just leaving my boxers then plopping onto the bed.

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I just stepped out of the shower, a towel wrapped low on my waist, my hair still dripping with water and a black tuxedo was laid out on the bed.

I was able to talk to Alice earlier about the program and the addition of Bella's name. She confirmed all of it and I wanted to sing a song for her. I was able to let Alice add me into the program so I could perform for her.

I found out that the company's Christmas ball doubles as a charity ball for local children's organizations. Some of the company's employees play certain instruments and a few years back they even started a band. Hopefully my performance would be beneficial to the charities.

"Edward, we're leaving in half an hour," my mother called through the door.

"Okay, mom, I'm getting dressed right now," I shouted back. I put on my boxers, then my shirt and pants. I did my bow tie then tried to tame my hair, which of course was a failure, so I just let it be. When I was all set I got my overnight bag then headed down to the foyer. I found my parents already to go with their bags at their sides. Jasper and Emmett came down about five minutes after me.

We had two limos waiting outside; one was for us and the other for our parents. We were to pick up the girls from Alice's house and my parents would have to go to each of the individual houses for the parents. We would be spending the night at the Four-Seasons where the event was being held. Each couple would have their own executive suite.

As we pulled up to Alice's house, we got out of the car and made our way to the door. Emmett knocked and Mr. Brandon opened the door. "Come in, the ladies should be down shortly," he said. I was the last one to enter and he pulled me aside. "Alice said you will be playing tonight?" I nodded. "Thank you, it is very much appreciated," he said.

"Oh, it's my pleasure sir. I hope my playing will bring in more funds. Actually at first I just wanted to play one song for Bella, but when Alice mentioned it was also a charity ball I added a couple of songs to my list. I hope you don't mind," I explained.

"Not at all son, you can play as many songs as you like," he said as we both laughed. "Ah, there are our wonderful ladies," he said.

I turned around and when I saw Bella it felt like I got the wind get knocked out of me. She was glowing and so beautiful. Her blue dress fitted her perfectly; even her breasts looked more perky than usual. Okay, head out of the gutter Cullen, I scolded myself. Her hair mahogany hair was flowing down her back with a few curls on the ends. Her make-up was simple, but it brought out her eyes and her cheek bones.

I walked over to her and I noticed her smile got bigger as we closed the distance. "You look beautiful, love," I said then gave her a chaste kiss on the lips.

"You look very dashing yourself, Dr. Cullen," she said with the slightest hint of seductiveness in her voice before she kissed me again. I felt my manhood twitch in my pants as she ran her tongue on my lower lip. Oh, its' going to be a long night, I thought.

"Okay, everyone stand by pair and we'll take a picture here. Then you can have more at the hotel," Amy said. The girls stood in front of us guys as we wrapped our arms around their waists. Amy took a few shots then we were on our way.

The hotel wasn't too far from the house and we got there in about twenty minutes. When we pulled into the lobby, Jasper got out first and helped Alice while Emmet and I went out at the same time before helping Rose and Bella.

We were met by a bellhop who took our bags then we headed over to the front desk to check in. As we were walking I noticed most of the males were looking over at us. Well, the girls at least. I pulled Bella closer to me then gave her a kiss on the top of her head.

"Welcome to the Four Seasons." The red head at the counter greeted us. Well, I guess me more than Bella. She cleared her throat before she spoke, "Hi, we would like to check in. We're with the Brandon and Hale party," she informed the lady.

"Ok, okay, may I have you mane please?" she asked.

"Isabella Swan," Bella said, then she typed a few things on her computer and handed over some papers to sign. Bella returned the papers then she looked over at me, "How about you sir, may I get your name," she asked batting her eyelashes at me.

"I'm staying with Ms. Swan. I believe I just need to sign my name on this paper." I took the pen from Bella and signed my name. If she wants to know it, she can just read it. I returned the paper then she handed us two key cards. When we were done we gave our number to the bell captain so they could bring up our bags.

We headed over to the ballroom where the event was to be held. Alice did good work. The tables were dressed in red and green table cloths, there was a pine tree on both sides of the stage, there was also a make shift dance floor at the center and a bar in one corner.

Alice led us to the table assigned to us and I settled Bella in. A lady came up to us and asked to speak with her. She excused herself and I took this chance to talk with Charlie. I found him at the door talking with a tall, blonde guy with medium built.

"Excuse me Charlie, may I have a word?" I asked once I got to them.

"Sure, son," he said to me then turned back to the guy. "Excuse me a moment."

We walked over to a corner to have some privacy. "What's on your mind, Edward?"

"Uhm, well, I'm really not sure how to say this so here it goes. I wanted to ask your permission to marry Bella." He was about to say something but I held my hand up. "Please let me finish." He nodded then I continued.

"I know I've known her for only ten months, but in those ten months, she has really made me whole. She has changed my outlook on love and has been my inspiration since the first day I saw her at The Edgewater. I'm not sure when I will propose, I haven't gotten that far yet, but I would like your permission to do so in the future," I explained.

He pondered on what I said before speaking. "I can see how you look at each other, Edward, and I know you love my daughter very much. Honestly she has changed as well. She's not as up tight as she used to be. The last guy really did a number on her. You are a good and accomplished man, Edward. Yes, you have my permission to marry my daughter. But you have to tell her mother as well and let us know when the time comes," he told me.

"Yes sir, I love your daughter more than words can say. I would give her anything she needs and wants, and even more if she would allow. I have told Renee of my plans a few days back and her only request as well was to let her know when I will do it and to show her the ring beforehand." I replied.

"That is so like my wife," he said then laughed. "Welcome to the family son." He shook my hand. "I think Bella is looking for you. We should go so she doesn't get suspicious," he said. I turned around to see Bella craning her neck and looking around.

I quickly made my way to her kissing the top of her head when I got there. "Where did you go?" she asked. "I just went to the washroom," I said, she seemed to accept my white lie and took her seat.

"Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for coming to night to the annual Brandon and Hale Christmas Charity Ball. We will be serving dinner first then at about the time of desert we will start our program. I hope you have a pleasant evening," the host announced as everyone settled in their seat and the waiters came out with the first course.

BPOV

Hmm, I wonder if Edward really went to the washroom. I believe I saw him standing in the corner talking to my father. Oh, well, it's no big deal.

Dinner was delicious. We started with a simple salad, and then we had cream of potato soup with bacon bits followed by a sushi sampler. The main course was baked salmon with hollandaise sauce beside a fillet mignon with peppercorn sauce.

After the plates were cleaned from the table, the waiters started bringing out desert. It was also like a sampler the desserts were in small cups on the plate. I tasted each one and they were all delicious. There was tiramisu, strawberry cheesecake, and a peppermint panna cotta. Coffee and tea were also offered.

"Did everybody have a good meal?" the host asked as she stepped up on stage and everyone agreed of course. She then began to explain the beneficiaries of the ball and how the guests could make donations.

This was followed by a series of employees singing and dancing. Several charities formed choirs and the children also performed. "Sweetie, I'll just go to the washroom," I told Edward. "Okay, love. Would you like me to accompany you?" he offered. "No, I'll be fine." I kissed him on the cheek before heading out of the room.

Once I had taken care of business, I washed my hands and touched up my make-up. I then made my way back to the ballroom and to our table. "Where are Edward, Rose and Alice?" I asked Jasper when I got back, noticing the empty seats.

"I'm not sure. They stood up and I assumed they followed you to the bathroom," Jasper replied while Emmett just shrugged his shoulders. I sat down and continued to listen to the lady playing the piano.

"Hello, we hope you're all having a great evening so far," I turned and found Alice and Rose standing on stage. There was an easel behind them covered with a red cloth.

"As some of you might know, our parents have passed the east coast branch of the company to us girls. So, we would like to take this night to unveil the new logo of the company," Rose explained as her and Alice took a hold of the bottom of the cloth.

When they lifted the cloth, I was left speechless. I was also stunned at how quickly they were able to come up with this since we just had signed the papers. "We are very proud to introduce Ms. Isabella Swan, the newest partner at the east coast branch of Brandon and Hale, now, Brandon, Hale, and Swan." Alice started bouncing and Rose waved me over.

I stood up and there was instantly a spotlight on me. I just smiled and waved to everyone and I suddenly wished Edward was beside me, this is more his kind of thing. That's when I realized that he'd been gone too long just to be in the bathroom. "Come on Bella," Alice called and waved me over as well.

Just then someone started to play the piano and the tune was very familiar. I knew of only one person who would know that piece. I looked over at the piano to find Edward sitting there, playing and smiling at me. He gave me a simple nod, then jerked his head towards Alice and Rose.

I got to the stage and Alice and Rose immediately grabbed me into a hug. We were joined by our parents and some pictures were taken as well. So many people were coming up and congratulating me, that when the song changed to a more modern beat I barely noticed. Someone then began to sing.

Ooh, it's something about,

Something about the way she moves

I can't figure it out there something about her

I would know that voice anywhere. It was melodic, soft and velvety, it was my Edward.

Said oh it's something about,

Kinda woman that want you but don't need you

Hey, I can't figure it out,

There's something about her

Jasper sang as he headed up to the stage and stood next to Alice. She was just staring at him with wide eyes and a hanging jaw. Emmet then followed suit singing the next stanza of the song.

'cause she walks like a boss,

Talk like a boss,

Manicured nails to set the pedicure off.

She's fly effortlessly

He finished the stanza at exactly the time he reached Rose. She hugged him instantly and he wrapped an arm around her waist. Edward then sang the next stanza and I walked towards him and wrapped my arms around his neck.

And she moves like a boss,

Do what a boss do,

She got me thinkin' about gettin' involved.

That's the kind of girl I need, oh

They all then sang the chorus together.

She's got her own thing, that's why I love her

Miss independent, won't you come and spend a little time

She's got her own thing, that's why I love her

Miss independent, ooh the way we shine, miss independent

They continued the song alternating verses. Then when they were done, the crowd roared their applause. I'm sure I was red as a tomato since I felt my cheeks really hot. "Sit love. I'll play a couple more pieces," he told me as he made space for me on the bench.

I sat down and lay my head on his shoulder, not minding if I got blush on his tux. He started to play and it sounded like a new piece. "Is that new?" I asked. "Yes love, once again, for you," he said as he kissed the top of my head.

After a while I lifted my head and saw people were starting to dance, including Alice and Jasper, Rose and Emmett and our parents. "How did you pull this off?" I asked. I was really curious. "I talked to Alice about it. I'll explain later love," he answered.

When he finished his piece we made our way to the floor and danced to a few songs. "Tired love?" Edward asked me as I let out a yawn. "A little. What time is it?" I asked. "Almost midnight," he answered. "You want to call it a night?" I asked. "Yes I think I'd like that."

We then went around saying good bye to our friends and parents. When we were sure we did not miss anyone we headed to the elevator and up to our room.

When we got to the door Edward pulled out his key card and inserted it into the slot. When the indicator turned green, he opened the door then stepped aside to make me head in first. We opted for the executive suite while our parents had the Governor's suite.

The room was simple. We had a view of the bay, and you could see some building lights still opened. We entered into the living area which had a dinette set by the window and a love seat and arm chair by the wall.

I headed into the bedroom and it had a king sized bed dressed in crisp white linens, there was a forty-two inch plasma TV and a chaise lounge chair in the corner by the window. I took a seat on it and took off my shoes and put up my feet.

"Bella?" Edward called out to me. "I'm in the bedroom sweetie," I shouted back. I closed my eyes and rested my arm on my forehead. I felt the chair shift so I opened my eyes. "You have to take off your make-up first love." Edward carried me to the bathroom.

He sat me down on the tub then brought my bag over to me. I collected the things that I needed to wash up. "Would you take a bath with me love?" he asked. I was too tired but I could never deny a bath with him. "Yes, but only if you have your aroma therapy things," I teased and he laughed. "Well Ms. Swan, I do happen to have some," he said then made to get his things.

He came back with three balls. "I have lavender, lime, and jasmine" he said as he indicated each ball. "Lavender please," I said, he then started the bath then threw the ball in. "Edward, could you help me with my dress?" I asked.

He then came up to me and unzipped my dress. I didn't even notice that he had already undressed until I leaned on him to be met by his well sculpted chest. He started kissing from behind my ear down to my shoulder.

He reached to unclasp my bra which fell to the floor. He continued nibbling on my neck as one hand began to fondle with my breast and the other moving downwards to my core. I reached behind his head and pulled him into a kiss. His kiss was heated and needy. As our tongues fought for dominance he continued his ministrations on my breasts and core.

He then turned me around and lifted me up onto the sink counter. He pulled off my thong then started to kiss my ankles and he made his way up. I spread my legs for him to have better access to my womanhood.

When he reached my core he started to suck and nibble on my clit as his hands kept me in place. "Oh, shit, Edward," I said and he pinned my hips harder onto the counter. "Please Edward, I need you inside me," I said. I assumed he needed it as much as I did because he immediately stood up and fixed his tip at my entrance.

He pushed in me slowly and stopped when his head was completely sheathed by my core. He kissed me and said, "I love you Isabella, more than anything else in my life."

"I love you Edward, more than I can ever express," I said, and with that he pushed completely into me holding his position for me to get accustomed to his size. Even after so many times of making love to him I still had to adjust to his size every time.

I pushed my hips into him indicating that I was ready. He then started to thrust in and out of me as he sucked alternately on my breasts. "Oh shit!" Damn I can't even form decent phrases when were having intercourse.

As he continued to thrust in me he reached down and pressed his thumb on my clit. "Edward, I'm close," I said as he started to rub my clit instead of just applying pressure. I continued to run my hands up and down his chest pausing at his nipples and rolling them between my thumb and index finger.

"I won't last long if you keep doing that love," he told me.

"I won't last long either with what you're doing," just as I finished my sentence I felt my walls clamp down on his member. After I rode out my orgasm he lifted me off the sink and bent me over it. My arms were resting on the counter and it was cold. Edward must have noticed since he handed me a towel.

When I was set, he spread my legs a bit and thrusted into me again. It started slow then he increased the pace. He reached over and fondled my breast with one hand and my clit with the other. "Harder baby," I told him and he complied. Not long after I felt my stomach starting to clench again. "I'm coming again, baby," I said.

He the leaned into my ear and spoke huskily. "I'm almost there too. Come with me, baby," just as he said that I felt my walls clamp down on him again as he shot his load into me. We rode out our orgasms together and stayed still for a while to compose ourselves.

He shut off the water of the tub, which was about to overflow. He drained some of the water and threw another bath ball into it. I took the time to completely remove my make-up and I finished at the same time the bath was ready.

Edward helped me into the tub then got in himself. He situated me between his legs and I leaned on his chest. He wrapped his arms around me and I reached up to wrap my arms around his neck. When the water started to run cold we got out and dried ourselves.

I was about to put on my nightgown when he snatched it from me. "You don't need that love," he said as carried me bridal style over to the bed. I held on to his neck as he reached down to turn down the covers. He put me down then threw the covers on me.

He got into his side of the bed but eventually moved closer to me and pulled me to his chest, one arm around my waist. "Goodnight love, sweet dreams," he said and kissed the top of my head.

"Goodnight sweetie," I said then entwined my fingers into his. I brought it up to my lips and kissed his hand before laying it to my chest. Not long after I felt myself going into a very restful sleep.