Opposites Attract Alternate Chapters

by AMWalsh

Bella is a sweet and innocent girl and she is starting her freshman year at college when she meets her new best friend Alice Cullen but can Bella tame the heart of Alice's Womanizing, Rude, Arrogant brother Edward... Read to find out if Opposites Attract

4. 4

Opposites Attract Alternate Chapters

Chapter 4

-------------------------------------------------------– Death in the Family-----------------------------------------------------------------

BPOV

The weather was rough and forecasters expected two to three feet of snow in the next couple of days. I was once again thankful I had collected my truck over Christmas as it currently looked like that two to three feet may fall in the next hour.

After my talk with Rosalie I had returned to our Sunday routine, and was on my way to the Cullen's on this stormy February night. I smiled as I thought of how much I looked forward to these nights now – Edward and I were far from close friends, but at the very least we got on, which had eased the whole group dynamic.

Suddenly my cellphone rang. I checked the caller ID and quickly answered.

"Hi Alice"

"Bella. Something horrible has happened." My heart sank as I heard these words and imagined the worst.

"What's happened Alice. Are you ok?" I asked, concern and worry sounding in my voice.

"My grandpa passed away this afternoon. I'm stuck at school with Jasper, Emmett and Rosalie - Edward is all alone at the house. We took the car instead of the jeep and now we're snowed in. Mom is worried about telling Edward until someone is there with him. Can you get there?"

"Of course" I answered, not a doubt in my mind, "I'm almost there. Are you alright though? Do you want me to come get you guys first?" I asked, suddenly realizing that I didn't feel entirely comfortable about being alone with Edward.

"No no. We're gonna be stuck here a while. My mom is gonna call you before she calls Edward. Thank you so much Bella, I'll call you later. Please call me if he is too much to handle ok."

"OK Alice, no worries. I am so sorry about your grandpa. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do?"

"Will do. Thanks again Bella, I'll talk to you later" she ended the conversation.

What Alice had said suddenly sank in. Handle? What did she mean by handle? What was he going to do that I couldn't handle?

Suddenly my phone rang - Esme.

"Hi Esme, I just spoke with Alice. I am so sorry for your loss. I'm on the way to the house, is there anything I can do?"

"Oh, thank God. Bella, I can't tell Edward without someone being there. He was so close to my father, I don't know how he's going to cope with the news." A sob broke through at the end.

"Esme, I just arrived at the house. I'll be here with Edward. I'll pass the phone across when he answers the door."

"Thank you so much Bella. I can't tell you what this means to me."

"Don't worry Esme. Here he is." I said as Edward opened the door looking smug about something. I silently handed him the phone and walked into the hallway to take my snow boots and coat off. Edward headed for the living room and leaned against the wall connecting to the dining room.

I studied his face as I closed the front door behind me. I could hear Esme on the phone crying and talking to him. A look of terror and sadness washed over him, then suddenly he dropped the phone and sank to the floor. I ran over to him and picked up the phone because Esme was still crying on the other end.

"Esme, it's Bella. I'm here, don't worry. I'll take care of him for you."

Edward reached out and pulled me close, burying his head in my stomach and wrapping his arms around my waist. He clung on so tightly I could barely breathe. A loud sob was muffled by my sweatshirt as his body was wracked with grief.

Esme sounded frantic on the other end of the phone, "Please take care of my baby for me Bella."

"Don't worry Esme I'll do everything I can. Let me know if there is anything else that needs to be done."

We ended the call and I placed my phone on the bookshelf next to me. Time passed, and I began to gently rub his back and smooth his hair away from his face. I felt the wetness of his tears hit my skin through my sweater, and still we stayed in the same place.

My phone rang. Alice.

"Is he ok? What happened? Are you OK Bella?"

"Hi Alice, we're both OK. He's just crying right now, let me see if he wants to talk." I tapped him gently on the shoulder, telling him that Alice was on the phone, but he just hugged me tighter.

"Alice? I don't think he's ready to talk yet. I'll call you if anything changes. Make sure Jasper takes care of you, OK?"

"Thanks Bella. I know he is not your favorite person but I can't tell you how much I appreciate you doing this for me and my family."

Alice hung up. Suddenly Edward wrapped his arms around me, pressing me to his body, and carried me to the couch. He sat both of us down together, never breaking contact with me, and set me down on his lap. I knelt on the couch, straddling him whilst he continued to sob against me. Instinctively trying to give some comfort I wrapped my arms around him and rubbed his back gently. He slowly calmed, but never moved. I began to run my fingers gently through his hair, trying to calm him further. He loosened his arms around me and sat back a little, lifting his face up to meet my gaze.

In that moment my heart sank right out of my body. His eyes were red from crying, and there were tears still streaming down his blotchy cheeks. His lips were swollen from where he had been biting them. I reached behind me for the tissues I knew were on the coffee table and set them on the couch beside us. I scooted up a bit so that I was sitting on his knees.

Looking into his eyes I took a tissue and began to gently dry the tears from his face, my other hand held to his cheek. He leaned into my touch and closed his eyes while I wiped away the evidence of his grief. Placing a tissue gently into his hand I tapped my nose and he blew his nose a few times with the tissues I kept handing him. I held his head in my hands as he closed his eyes again, noticing the crease that furrowed his brow in sadness.

In that moment, as I gazed upon his lashes made dark from his tears, I had the strangest urge to kiss his swollen lips. I caught myself inches from his face. I wiggled my knees a little get more comfortable, and he rested his hands on my hips drawing me close to him. He buried his face in my hair, resting his head in the crook of my neck. I wrapped my arms around his head and shoulders and simply held him.

His arms moved around me, pulling me tight to him and I felt my breasts press against his chest. I rubbed his back while he clung to me and his hot breath flowed through my hair and onto my collarbone, making me shiver. I felt goose bumps rising from my fingers up my arm to my shoulders. I shuddered a little as he began to gently stroke my sides with his hands. For a second I thought he was making a pass at me, then I heard him sobbing again into my neck. We stayed like that for a couple of hours.

---------------------------------------------------------Death in the Family Part 2------------------------------------------------------------------

BPOV

We were still on the sofa, our bodies entangled. His arms had dropped to my hips again but he still held me tightly. I glanced at the clock on the DVD player and saw that it was almost 2am. Had we really been sitting here for that long?

I knew it would be best for both of us if we got some sleep so I slowly unhitched his hands from my hips. Moving gently I rose to my feet, and stood in front of him. His bloodshot green eyes met mine again, and my heart melted. His eyes held so much pain, hurt and fear, but above all he looked completely and utterly lost.

Taking his hand I led him upstairs to his bedroom. I drew his covers back and pushed him gently to sit on the edge of his bed. I untied his shoes and slipped them off slowly, placing them together next to his nightstand. As I moved him I noticed that there was no strength to his limbs. It was as if he was an empty shell.

Knowing that he was also wearing a T Shirt, I slowly lifted his sweater up, and he raised his arms to comply with my action as I tugged gently it over his head. I pushed his shoulders back so his head was lying on the pillow, and brought each of his legs up to rest on the bed. I pulled his covers over him and turned to leave.

As I began to walk away he grabbed my wrist, pulling me back to him. His eyes looked at me questioningly; as if afraid I was leaving. He tugged on my arm and gestured for a hug. I gave him a hug, stroking my hand over his cheek causing him to lean into my touch again. Once again I began to leave but he seized my hand.

I knew I couldn't sleep in that bed with him - I would do almost anything to help him, but even as a favor to Alice and Esme I could not sleep in that bed. I spoke softly. "Edward, I can't sleep in your bed. Not knowing what has gone on there. I just can't be in that bed with you." As I looked into his questioning eyes, so lost in his own overwhelming emotions, I struggled to reconcile the person he was now, with the person he had been ever since we had first met.

He released my hand and I walked towards the door. I turned as I heard him get up, to find him standing behind me with his pillow in his hand. It seemed as if he was going to follow me to bed, which I thought I could deal with as long as it wasn't in his room. Walking back into the hallway I realized I needed to use the bathroom…. Damnit, how was this going to work! I walked towards the bathroom, went inside and he stopped at the door – I turned to find him just standing there still holding his pillow. I held up my finger indicating for him to not move, he nodded as I shut the door.

After peeing I washed my hands, flushed the toilet and rinsed my mouth with some mouth wash. I felt a lot better now. My sweatshirt was still wet from his tears, so I removed it, revealing the vest top I had thrown on underneath. I walked out of the bathroom, and found Edward standing in exactly the same spot, apparently no having moved a muscle.

I took his hand, led him into the bathroom and gestured at the toilet before closing the door behind me as I left. I heard him wash his hands and brush his teeth, then the door opened slowly and he looked down at me questioningly. It seemed he was expecting me to know every move he had to make.

My only thought was of my overwhelming fatigue. It seemed I was going to have to share a bed with Edward – not something I was particularly looking forward to. At least he wasn't in an appropriate state to take any advantage of the situation. If anything I could probably take advantage of him right now. Willing Alice to walk through the door and save me, I walked to the guest bedroom, with him following me, still clutching his pillow. Glancing out of the window I noticed that it was still snowing heavily. I just could make out the outline of my truck against the snow.

Walking to the bed I pulled the covers down and gently turned Edward around so that he faced the wall. I quickly changed into some of my clothes which I had found in the drawer from my last stay, and after folding the days clothes into a neat pile realized I had left my cellphone downstairs. I ran quickly downstairs to grab it and seeing his, I picked that up too. Running back up the stairs, I ran straight into something that knocked the breath out of me. Looking up I saw Edward, and realized that I had run straight into him. OUCH – I had fallen to the hardwood floor with quite a thump.

Before I had a chance to get up he bent down and scooped me into his arms, taking me to the guest room and gently placing me on the bed. He slowly walked to the other side and got in, pulling the covers up a little over his body. He rolled onto his side, and gazing into my eyes the whole time, reached out and pulled me close to him. Ever since he had picked me up and brought me to the room it felt like I had lost all control of my limbs. In a moment of clarity I reached over and placed both of our cell phones onto the nightstand. He pulled me close to him again, and as my body relaxed into the bed I decided that as long as I could sleep, I didn't care how close he wanted to be.

Edward scooted down in the bed and lay his head on my chest, facing away from me. He brought his hand up and interlocked his fingers with mine. His touch left my skin tingling, and I focused on controlling the thoughts rushing through my head. After listening for his breathing to even into the soft pattern of sleep, I gave in myself and fell into a deep slumber.

I woke up to a phone ringing, and reached over to grab it, checking out the time as I answered.

"Hi Alice" I said groggily. I was still exhausted.

"Hi Bella, how is everything there? Is Edward ok?"

"We're fine" I replied rubbing sleep from my eyes. "He's asleep right now, and he hasn't spoken a word since your mom told him."

"Oh no. He has taken it worse than I thought."

"How is the weather out? Are you guys able to make it back to the house yet?"

"No, unfortunately that's part of the reason I'm calling. We're going to be stuck here for at least a couple of days. Do you mind if Rosalie crashes on your bed?"

"No that's fine. When do you think the roads will be OK to drive on?"

"I am not sure. I've been watching the news, half the state has declared an emergency. Medical personnel are being shuttled around to emergencies in Hummers, but other than that they are asking people to stay inside. School is cancelled until further notice, and a lot of stores haven't even opened."

I yawned as Alice finished filling me in "Sorry Bella, I didn't mean to wake you! I'll get off the phone now. Call me later when you've both woken. Thanks again Bella I appreciate your help so much."

"OK, thanks Alice. I'll talk to you later." I yawned again as I disconnected the phone, glancing down to see if the call had woken Edward up. He didn't seem to have noticed.

I realized I had spoken too soon as he scooted further on top of me so that his body lay on top of mine. He was a dead weight as I tried to wriggle out from under him, but all I accomplished was his body ending up between my legs as his head remained pressed to my chest. Signing in frustration, I suddenly realized our compromising position as I felt his chest rise and fall in the familiar pattern of sleep. He nuzzled into my stomach now and I felt an unfamiliar jolt run through my body. He was inches away from my breasts, and I started to feel a dull ache in my lower stomach. I knew that ache would not be satisfied, and I needed to stop this somehow.

Realizing how ineffective my efforts at escape had been, I tried an alternative tactic. Resting my right hand on his arm, I moved my thumb in a circular motion to sooth him back to sleep as I ran my fingers through his hair. He stopped moving, seemingly settling back into a deep sleep, as I swiftly followed.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------Breakfast-----------------------------------------------------------------

BPOV

I arched my hips to meet his thrusts as he pounded into me. I was so close to my climax, and could feel the ache rising as my body clenched with each thrust, trying to draw him deeper and deeper into me as I moaned with pleasure.

My eyes flashed open, and I realized that Edward was still sleeping, snoring gently as he lay on top of me. It had felt so unbelievably real, and I could feel my heart pounding as my body confirmed just how real it had felt. Great, my first erotic dream, and it's about player extraordinaire, Edward Cullen.

I whispered softly to see if he was really sleeping. His only response was to move his hand up to my breast and languidly trace his fingers across my nipple. I arched my back a bit to nudge him in the hope that he would wake up and stop, but that only succeeded in getting him to gently thrust his hips between my legs. The feeling was so amazing I didn't think I ever wanted him to stop.

He started to stir a little, nuzzling into stomach whilst lifting my shirt up. He softly kissed my belly whilst continuing to caress my breast.

Did I really want this?

Was I ready for this?

No. I was absolutely not ready for this. He hadn't even opened his eyes yet but the way he touched me was irresistible and a soft moan escaped my lips as my body arched. His eyes snapped open at the sound and before I knew what was happening he had jumped off the bed and was standing at the door, looking petrified and running his hand through his bed hair.

Oh shit. What just happened? I should have just put a stop to it and woke him up. Crap. Stupid Bella.

I looked up as his voice came from across the room.

"Bella, I'm so sorry. I didn't know what I was doing. Please forgive me, I'm so sorry. Oh God I'm sorry." He babbled through his tears.

Wait. Why was he apologizing so much, and why was he crying? What if he had realized what he was doing – was I so terrible that I brought him, to tears? Was I not pretty enough for him? I could feel the anger and rejection burning inside of me as I thought over his words. Damnit I may not be one of his booty calls, but I certainly wasn't going to accept that I was so undesirable I would bring a guy to tears. I may have some self confidence issues, but really? Tears? Hold on a second, was I really comparing myself to one of his booty calls?

I moved from the bed and walked across the room to comfort him – his tears had descended into the sobs that wracked his body yesterday. I pushed my hurt feelings away and felt the rage begin to subside. Wrapping my arms around him I pulled him into a hug, rubbing his back to soothe him. I realized I didn't want him to feel as bad as he did last night ever again.

"Edward" I said softly, causing him to open his eyes and gaze down at me. "It's OK, don't worry. You we were asleep and neither of us knew what we were doing." His gaze softened a little at my words "I'm not mad. It's OK. Please Edward, just stop apologizing."

His tears subsided as he returned my hug, wrapping his arms gently around my small frame and tipping my head up to meet his eyes again. "Are you sure? I really didn't mean to do that. I wouldn't ever treat you like that. Please don't tell my sister, she'll never forgive me."

"Edward, trust me. I don't want to tell her either. It's not as if it was all one sided - I was responding to you after all." He looked at me questioningly and I immediately felt the blush rise from my neck and overtake my cheeks. Did I just admit to him that I wanted him?

Bella, think, there has to be a get out of this ridiculously uncomfortable situation. Suddenly my stomach rumbled. Food – Yes! We needed some breakfast.

I extracted myself from his hug. "I'm going to go downstairs and make some breakfast for us" his face registered shock and confusion.

He reached out, pulling me close against him again in another hug. For a second I thought he was breaking down again. Suddenly I heard his voice as he whispered into my hair.

"Thank you for being with me last night when I needed you. I know you don't like me but I am so grateful for what you did." I leaned back from the hug and cupped his cheeks in my hands and stared him in the eyes.

"Edward, I never said I didn't like you. I just don't understand or want to witness the torture you put yourself through." I sighed and dropped my head. I hated that I sounded as if I was judging him, and knew it was not an appropriate time for this conversation while he's in so much pain. I couldn't allow him to think that I hated him though.

"Bella, I'm sorry for the way I've treated you. You've not done anything to deserve what I've said or done. I'm just…..well I'm not sure what I am. I was wondering whether you could forgive me for so much more than this morning. I would like it if we could be friends." He finished with a wry smile and ran his hand through his hair again.

I chuckled as I replied, "we should have been friends earlier."

"What do you mean?"

"I saw your books and CD collection in your room last night. We have very similar tastes – it would be nice to be able to have someone to talk to who actually know what they're talking about. Of course, only if you want to?" I trailed off at the end.

He smiled that crooked smile that I used to mistake for a smirk. It was adorable the way the corner of his mouth rose up to a little curl against his cheek. My heart fluttered in my chest and I found myself moving closer to him. He met me halfway, and his head tipped down to meet my upturned face. My heart pounded wildly in my chest and our lips slowly drifted together in the lightest of touches. Suddenly realizing what we were doing I pulled away quickly and ran downstairs. I hurtled into the kitchen and began to make breakfast. I realized whilst getting the pans out that no amount of distraction was going to make me forget the briefest of kisses we had shared. I was breathing far too heavily, my hands were shaking too much and my knees were too weak to allow me to do that.

EPOV

Her breast felt perfect as my fingers danced across it. I felt her move underneath me and I began thrusting into her, enjoying the tight sensation against me, giving her everything I had. Her beautiful scent drove me wild, turning me on so much I had to taste her. I began slowly kissing her soft silky skin, nuzzling her warm body, and I ran my hand over her breast again. If I could remember her name I would definitely keep her around longer than a week. I heard her throaty moan………. And then I woke up.

Reality crashed down on me. I knew this girl. Fuck. How did I do that to Bella? I leapt across the room leaving her on the bed with frustration and shock written across her face. What have I done? I took advantage of this sweet innocent girl. Not only that but she had only been around to look after me when I needed someone most. How could I have been such an ass?

Another reality slammed into my mind. My grandfather and best friend was gone forever. My sister and mother were going to kill me for taking advantage of Bella. My grandfather was the person I would have turned to over this…. He was the only person who understood me, and accepted me without making any judgments. I felt tears begin to roll down my cheeks again as I thought of what I had lost. My mentor, my guide and my confidante, all gone in my grandfathers passing.

Realizing Bella was still on the bed, I spoke as the sobs began to course through my body.

"Bella, I'm so sorry. I didn't know what I was doing. Please forgive me, I'm so sorry. Oh God I'm sorry."

She looked at me as her eyes conveyed her hate and fear. What had I done? My legs felt as if they were locked in position. I couldn't move to escape or to comfort her. It was probably for the best – I didn't have a clue what was the right thing to do. I watched her as she moved, then closed my eyes as I imagined the wrath she was about to unleash upon me.

Confusion darted across my mind as she reached out to hug me, rubbing my back in a way that instantly calmed me. If I was honest with myself, just having her in my arms was enough to calm me.

"Edward" her voice was gentle. I opened my eyes and met her gaze.

"It's OK, don't worry. You we were asleep and neither of us knew what we were doing." Her chocolate eyes met my gaze resolutely. "I'm not mad. It's OK. Please Edward, just stop apologizing."

I wrapped my arms around her slender frame, wondering whether she was just trying to make me feel better. "Are you sure? I really didn't mean to do that. I wouldn't ever treat you like that. Please don't tell my sister, she'll never forgive me."

"Edward, trust me. I don't want to tell her either. It's not as if it was all one sided - I was responding to you after all." I looked at her questioningly, wondering if she meant it. Her cheeks flushed as she smiled up at me. If she meant it should I have kept going? No, that would have been a mistake. Her first time shouldn't be with someone like me.

Her stomach growled as she stepped away from me. "I'm going to go downstairs and make some breakfast for us" she said, clearly trying to change the subject and get away from me. I suddenly realized I didn't want to let her go. I needed to be close to her right now. I needed her to hold me.

I reached out and pulled her close against me and whispered in her hair.

"Thank you for being with me last night when I needed you. I know you don't like me but I am so grateful for what you did." She returned my hug then leaned back to meet my gaze again, cupping my face in her hands.

"Edward, I never said I didn't like you. I just don't understand or want to witness the torture you put yourself through." She sighed and dropped her head. I didn't understand, why did she think I was torturing myself? All I was doing was having fun, enjoying life. Her words made me realize just how innocent she was, and I felt even worse about my actions when she first came to the house. Her sadness made me see I wanted her to be happy. I didn't want to see her sad ever again.

"Bella, I'm sorry for the way I've treated you. You've not done anything to deserve what I've said or done. I'm just…..well I'm not sure what I am. I was wondering whether you could forgive me for so much more than this morning. I would like it if we could be friends."

She laughed lightly, replying, "we should have been friends earlier." Well that surprised me. I had almost expected an outright rejection. Hell, I deserved an outright rejection.

"What do you mean?"

"I saw your books and CD collection in your room last night. We have very similar tastes – it would be nice to be able to have someone to talk to who actually know what they're talking about. Of course, only if you want to?" Of course I wanted to. Maybe Bella and I had enough in common to build a friendship. It would be weird – the only girl I've ever been friends with was my sister.

She looked up at me as her cheeks flushed again, and she moved closer to me as I felt my lips tug up into another smile. I felt my body move towards her and my face dipped to meet her eyes, searching for mine. I leant forward and grazed my lips across hers gently. They felt like the softest silk, warm and soft. The kiss was over before it began, and Bella had dashed away from my embrace. At least I knew where she had gone I smiled to myself, hearing cupboards and pans banging from the kitchen.

------------------------------------------------------------------------Snowed In-------------------------------------------------------------------------

BPOV

Just as breakfast was ready, Edward came downstairs from his shower. I had spent my time cooking trying to decide whether to mention what happened this morning. After careful consideration I had decided that some things were best left. I just hoped he wouldn't mention it, and that we could pretend it hadn't happened. I watched him as he slid onto one of the barstools, noticing how he seemed to be over the worst of his shock from last night. Although I knew it would take him a lot longer to recover from his loss, I was relieved to see that he seemed to be more emotionally stable than last night.

I fixed him a plate of food and set it in front of him.

"Coffee or juice?" I asked

"Juice is fine thanks." He replied, almost shy. He didn't look like the confident, and slightly smug Edward I was used to. "Thanks for making breakfast Bella it's really good." He inhaled his food like a starved Emmett.

I sat to join him with my plate of food. "I need to get to my truck to get some school books and my overnight bag. Do you know where the shovel is?"

"Don't worry, I'll do it as soon as I'm done here. I should probably do the steps and sidewalk as well." He seemed to be back to normal now, and strangely I wasn't sure if that was a good or a bad thing. I was nervous and scared of being around a coherent Edward.

I moved to tidy away the dishes. "Call your mom and sister before you head out. They're probably worried about you. I think your phone's on the nightstand in the guestroom."

"In your room you mean." He said with a smile. What did he mean my room? I decided to ignore that comment, before I said something that would really embarrass me.

He headed upstairs as I cleaned up the dishes and the counter. I went to get dressed, then grabbed my keys to head outside. It was like a winter wonderland outside, everything was cloaked in snow making even the driveway look beautiful. I stepped into the snow and got a shock as I sank up to my thigh – a full body snow suit was something I had never considered to be a requirement before, but I was rethinking that.

Edward came out of the front door carrying two shovels, an ice scraper and a broom. He was bundled up ready for the weather, with a smile on his face.

"Bella, Bella, Bella where are you?" he sang "I can't find you, helloooooooooooo, Bella, where did you disappear to?"

"Edward you're just too funny." I smiled to show him the joke in my words. "Now throw me a shovel please so I can get to my car."

He was laughing at me now as he tossed me a shovel and I began to dig myself out of the snow. He worked on shoveling the steps whilst I made my way to my truck. We worked in a companionable silence, enjoying the cold wind against our cheeks, particularly as we were working so hard to clear the snow. The wind snapped my hair across my face and I sneezed violently.

"Bless you"

"Thank you Edward."

"No problem Bella."

"You know baby it's cold outside." He laughed with me as I realized this morning really hadn't affected out fledgling friendship. I picked up the song immediately , enjoying the relaxed camaraderie we had slipped into.

Bella and Edward

"I really can't stay"

"Baby its cold outside"

"I've got to go away"

"Baby its cold outside"

"This evening has been"

"Been hoping that you'd drop in"

"So very nice"

"I'll hold your hands they're cold as ice"

"My mother will start to worry"

"Beautiful, what's your hurry"

"My father will be pacing the floor"

"Listen to the fireplace roar"

"So really I'd better scurry"

"Beautiful, please don't hurry"

"Well, maybe just one drink more"

"Put some records on while I pour"

"The neighbors might think"

"Baby, it's bad out there"

"Say, what's in this drink"

"No cabs to be had out there"

"I wish I knew how"

"Your eyes are like starlight now"

"To break the spell "

"I'll take your hat, your hair looks swell"

"I ought to say no, no, no, sir"

"Mind if I move a little closer"

"At least I'm gonna say that I tried"

"What's the use in hurting my pride"

"I really can't stay"

"Baby don't hold out"

"Baby it's cold outside"

We sang into our shovel handles, laughing and smiling at each other throughout the song. We danced and jumped around in the snow, acting like kids. There were no inhibitions or fear holding me back , I just enjoyed the moment and had fun.

We started to throw snowballs at each other, laughing at each other when we each got direct shots. We continued to play around in the snow, ending up next to each other by my truck. I smiled up to him noticing that his cheeks were flushed with the cold, and his nose was red. In that moment, I realized how heartstoppingly beautiful he was, and my heart began to pound in my chest and my knees became weak. I looked into his eyes, and suddenly his arms wrapped around my waist pulling me up towards his chest. I wrapped my arms around his shoulders to steady myself.

Our faces were inches apart when we were interrupted by a familiar male voice.

"Hey Bella is that you?" Mike asked from the sidewalk behind us. Edward released me and returned to snow shoveling.

"Oh, hi Mike" I struggled to keep my voice even, "how have you been? I forgot that you live around the corner. Whats up?"

"Nothing much. My brothers and I have been helping people in the neighborhood to dig out their cars and shovel their drives. You know, the whole help the community thing is big at my fraternity." He said raising his shovel triumphantly.

"That's really, erm, sweet of you guys to do that. I am sure the people really appreciate it." My mind was wondering back to what Mike had interrupted.

"Well, if you want to stop by later you're more than welcome. We're having chili, grilled cheese and hot cocoa. Bring our friends too if you want."

EPOV

What the fuck is frat-boy doing out here. Seriously, that guy is everywhere. Did he not see us about to kiss? Was it not obvious? I couldn't believe the nerve of him standing right in front of me and basically asking her out.

"Thanks Mike, but I don't think we'll be able to make it. By the way did you ever find True Blood to download?" I struggled not to laugh, no chili booty for frat-boy! Hold on, was she continuing the conversation?

"No, I couldn't find it." Ha!

"I think I've got a copy at my dorm. If you want I can drop it off when the snow's gone and I can get back to my dorm." Bella, really, are you into him? Please say no.

"That sounds good. Maybe we could meet for some coffee or something?" The guy is relentless. She's already said no to the chilli, does he really want to embarrass himself or did he just like to be tortured? Come on Bella, say no, say no, say no, I chanted in my head as I finished digging her truck out.

"Yeah, that's sounds good Mike. I'll text you next week."

"No problem, I'll see you next week then." He turned to leave. Ha! I win! Oh wait, she agreed to coffee next week. Nevermind, that's next week, I have her now, so I win this round.

We returned to shoveling the snow in silence. When we had finished the drive she grabbed her stuff from her truck and we headed inside. We stripped inside the door, placing our snowy clothes on the towel near the door. I heard Bella heading up the stairs, and looked up to see her in a t-shirt and boy shorts, shivering and clutching her bag in her hand. Her little legs were pink from getting wet and cold through her jean. Her legs were more shapely and defined than I had imagined them, and she had curves in all the right places. Damn, she was sexy as hell. My mind drifted to the soft feeling as I slept on her stomach, but I moved to head upstairs in an effort to drag my mind out of the gutter. I had to stop thinking like that.

I ran upstairs to my room and pulled on some sweatpants, a sweatshirt and a pair of slippers that my mom had insisted I keep. When I came down Bella had a pot going on the stove and something in the oven. It smelled wonderful.

"Whatcha making? You gonna share?" I asked, knowing the answer, but wanting to tease her. I was enjoying the easy going banter we had been exchanging this morning in the snow, and hoped it would continue.

"No Edward. I'm cooking your food in your house and I'm not going to share a bit of it with you." Oh, she's getting feisty. " It's tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. Do you want cocoa, tea or coffee?"

"Cocoa please, with whipped cream, marshmallows and a cherry on top." I responded with a cheeky grin.

"Well, I can handle the whipped cream and marshmallows, but as far as the cherry I'm sorry but you can't have that. I'm saving that for the moment." Was little Bella Swan making a dirty joke at my expense? I burst out laughing, and she joined me.

Bella finished up with lunch, and we took our food and drinks to the living room. I found a blanket in the linen closet and we sat down to a carpet picnic and watched a DVD, chatting throughout the film.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------Snowed In-----------------------------------------------------------------------

BPOV

As the film progressed our companionable silences became longer and longer, and by the time the DVD finished I knew he had fallen asleep. I quietly took the dishes to the kitchen, and cleaned and tidied them away before returning to the lounge. I found Edward curled up on the floor, sleeping soundly. I struggled to prevent a smile crossing my face as I noticed how adorable he was. I knelt down to him and stroked his cheek with my thumb trying to gently awaken him.

"Edward, wake up, you need to get to bed. Wake up." I said softly as he began to stir. His eyes opened slowly, and he sat up suddenly as he realized where he was.

"Sorry Bella, I must have fallen asleep."

"Yeah, you definitely fell asleep." I chuckled, holding out my hand to help him up from the hardwood.

No sooner had he stood up than he pulled us both down onto the sofa. We lay face to face and I could feel the entire length of his body under me. He gently wrapped his arms around me, pulling me close to him as I lay my head on his chest. I wrapped my arms around his torso, bringing my hands up to rest on his shoulder blades. I felt him push against the bottom arm of the sofa, as he moved his body up to rest his head on the cushions at the other end. He dipped his head and buried his face in my hair, inhaling deeply. In that moment I felt more comfortable and safe than I think I ever had. The house could have fallen down around me and I don't think I would have noticed.

Edward pulled the blanket from the back of the sofa, wrapping it around us both before his arms encircled me once again. His hand moved to gently smooth my hair away from my face, then he softly ran his fingers through my hair. The slow, thoughtful cadence was so soothing, and I felt my eyes begin to close in relaxation. I turned my head into his chest and breathed in his scent, and I felt an involuntary shiver run down my spine.

I slowly moved my head up to meet his eyes, moving my hands to his chest to lift my upper body slightly. He looked down at me, tilting his head enquiringly. I felt a shock pass through my body again as we lay in each other's arms, looking at one another for what seemed like forever. I felt the blush rise in my cheeks as I realized how intimate this was. I knew we hadn't done anything, but there was something about the way, with our eyes locked together, I felt like he was seeing a part of me that no-one ever had.

He smiled gently at me and softly kissed each of my cheeks which only became an even deeper shade of red.

"What are you thinking about?" He asked softly.

"I'm not really sure. You?" I replied in the same tone. It was almost as if we were both afraid to break the spell.

"No fair, I asked you first."

I felt awkward as I explained, "your eyes are lighter when you are calm and relaxed and darker when you are upset or mad."

"Is that so?" he replied, still not breaking our locked gaze.

I nodded in response, before he tightened his grip on my waist and lifted me slightly further up his body. His face turned a little, so that he was resting his cheek on mine. In that moment, I felt my body react of its own accord, leaning into the crook of his neck, pressing my face against the warmth I found there. I felt a burning start in my chest and travel down my body as I wrapped my arms around his shoulders and pressed my body closer into him. A moan slipped through his lips against my neck as his hands roamed across my back. I pulled back so that our faces were side by side and I could see him out of the corner of my eye.

"They just wanna, they just wanna

Girls just wanna have fun"

The noise blared from the cell phone in my pocket, breaking the moment we had both struggled to preserve. I felt the blush rise across my cheeks as I groaned and leapt to the other end of the couch and I answered the phone.

I heard Alice telling Emmett to shut up, and then my breathy voice betray me as I spoke.

"Hey Alice?"

"Hey Bella" she chirped, clearly having taken charge of Emmett. "How is everything over there?"

I wondered how to answer that, and settled for a diplomatic "Erm, fine?"

"Great, I'm pleased you and Edward haven't killed each other. I just wanted to let you know that the storm is pretty much over and we should be able to get to you guys by noon."

I sighed, realizing that it was part in relief and part in regret.

Alice continued "The funeral is going to be in three days. My mom has bought plane tickets for us all, including you. It would mean a lot to all of us if you would come with us. Do you think you will be able to get the time off work?"

"Alice, are you sure you need me there" I responded awkwardly, "It's really just a family thing"

"Bella, my parents know as well as I do. You are family." I smiled at her response and confirmed that I would be there.

"Thank you so much" Alice replied. "And my mom sends her thanks for looking after Edward. Even though I'm the youngest, he has always been her baby. You need to know how much we all appreciate your help". Her usually cheery voice grew serious. The sparkle was back in her voice however as we confirmed our plans for tomorrow and said goodbye. I heard the others shouting in the background as I ended the call.

I turned to Edward and filled him in on the other side of the conversation. He nodded, confirming his understanding, and then turned to walk upstairs.

I remained in the lounge, feeling a mix of emotions that I couldn't get an anchor on. I couldn't believe how close we came to kissing. The Edward I had seen today was not the Edward I had come to know and dislike. Maybe I got the wrong impression of him before.

Curling my feet underneath, I realized that there was no maybe about it. I had definitely gotten the right impression of him. All those girls, I couldn't possibly be wrong. He was a womanizer and I was NOT going to be dazzled by those green eyes and that adorable hair. Settling back into the sofa, I was adamant. I was not going to let myself be dazzled by Edward Cullen.

EPOV

I returned downstairs after releasing some stress which had built up after my close encounter with Bella. I knew it was wrong that we had almost kissed, but she just looked so ….. inviting, tempting, beautiful? I wasn't sure of the right word, all I knew was that I was left most unsatisfied after enjoying some of my own company, and that had never happened before. Walking into the lounge I ran my hand through my hair as I asked Bella what she wanted to do to pass the day.

We dug out a deck of cards and a scrabble game. We alternated games throughout the afternoon, and when we got bored I tried to teach her how to play madden football on the Wii. As amusing as it was, Bella became increasingly frustrated as she couldn't get to grips with the game, so we headed to the basement to play pool and darts. I didn't realize just how much I had taken my life in my hands as she almost took my eye out with a dart and knocked me over the head with one of the cues.

Standing well back, I let her go at it. She was adorable when she was clumsy. She blushed a vibrant shade of red when she knew she had done something klutzy. When she called a truce with the pool table and the dart board we settled on the basement sofa together to watch a DVD. As Bella grew cold I got the blanket from upstairs, and felt a sense of calm wash over me again as she snuggled into my chest.

I felt her breathing become steady and shallow, and every so often she would nuzzle into my chest and make a little sound of what I hoped was contentment. I could feel the spot where her hand was rested on top of my shirt and the heat from her cheek resting on my shoulder.

I felt my phone vibrate in my pocket, and I maneuvered around Bella to reach it. I silenced it when I saw it was Jessica, then rested it on the arm of the sofa as I closed my eyes to rest with Bella. Just as I was relaxing into her my phone buzzed with a text message.

Edward, I'm on my way over. I need you to fuck me.

I cursed under my breath as I quickly typed a response. There was no was she could come here. She would ruin everything.

Not now Jess. I'm dealing with a death in the family. I'm not in the mood for anything.

I hoped that that would keep her away. Bella stretched up against me, waking as my phone buzzed again next to us.

She looked up at me through her lashes, her eyes heavy with sleep.

"Hi" she murmured.

"Hi" I replied, looking down at her beautiful eyes. "You fell asleep and I didn't want to wake you. Are you hungry?"

She met my gaze, "Maybe something light? How about you?" she asked standing up and stretching. As she arched her back her shirt lifted ever so slightly, exposing the creamy white skin of her flat stomach. My body tensed and my cock twitched. Was that all it took from her?

"How about a salad and some soup?" I asked meeting her eyes again as I felt hers upon me.

"Sounds good. I'll go and get it started." she replied.

"Great, I'll be out in a minute." I said as she headed for the kitchen.

As soon as she was gone I checked my text message.

Come on Edward I'm horny. Just 15 minutes. I need your cock in me now.

Seriously? What was the matter with her? I had said I had a death in the family and she didn't even ask who it was or if I was ok? I decided the easiest way to cut this off was to just call her.

I didn't even wait for her to say hello. "Jess, do not come over. This is not happening right now." I told her.

I had to hold the phone away from my ear as she screeched, "Are you fucking kidding me Edward? Someone dies and so you stop fucking. I have always been there when you needed some ass. Stop being so fucking …..aaaaarrrrgh" she trailed off in frustration.

"Jess, not now OK." I pinched the bridge of my nose in frustration

"Fuck you Edward Cullen. Fuck you and your womanizing ass" she shrieked before hanging up on me.

I snapped my phone shut, and then reopened it. I flicked through my messages and deleted any from Jessica, and removed her name and number from my contacts. Satisfied that I had gotten rid of her for the moment, I walked into the kitchen and saw Bella's curvy hips moving as she danced around the kitchen preparing our food. When she noticed me she returned my smile, and removed her earphones.

I knew that she loved her music almost as much as I did, so gestured for her to return to listening and dancing as I settled onto the barstool to await my food. This was our little routine, and I found it comforting. With everything else that was going on, it felt comfortable to just relax and enjoy some time with Bella.

After we ate I cleared the kitchen as Bella started some laundry and cleaned the bathroom. In that moment I realized how much we were like an old married couple. An image of Bella and I, old and grey but still enjoying life, flashed into my mind. I chuckled to myself as I wondered whether it could ever be true, whether she would ever be mine, and if she was, would she put up with me until we were old and grey. In that moment it hit me that there was something definitely different about Bella. Without noticing it, my mind had envisioned her as a future rather than a fuck.

Snapping myself out of my reverie, I remembered that my friends and family would be arriving tomorrow. They knew how close my grandfather and I had been, and that I always kept my emotions to myself. They would be waiting for me to break down and I needed to be ready for their stares and whispers of worry. I know they cared about me but I couldn't deal with them hovering over me all the time. I smiled again as I thought of how Bella knew how to take care of me. Somehow it seemed to be instinctive to her – she just let me be, didn't hover or ask questions but was always there to hold me.

When the house was cleaned, we showered and changed into our pajamas. I found her downstairs cuddled up in a blanket on the recliner. Her little socked foot bounced in time with the music she was listening to as she read. I sat on the sofa with my laptop and emailed my professor and my tutors to advise them of my absence. Turning off the computer, I stretched out my arms and legs and a yawn escaped me as I realized how tired I was. I walked over to Bella and kissed the top of her head.

She looked up questioningly and smiled at me. I indicated that I was going to bed and she nodded before returning to her book. As I walked to the stairs I noticed how adorable she was when she was engrossed in a fictional world.

I tossed and turned for about an hour. About 15 minutes after I had gone to bed I had seen the shadows of Bella's feet cross my door as she turned off the hall light and went to bed. I had spent the last 45 minutes alternating between counting sheep and staring at the ceiling. I wanted to sleep but I couldn't. I wondered if Bella was up, and decided to investigate.

I walked down the hall to her door and stopped outside to listen. Hearing her talking softly I tapped gently on the door so as not to startle her. There was no answer so I pushed the door open slowly and walked in. She certainly looked like she was sleeping, and I walked quietly over to her bed. She was peacefully sleeping and her breathing was steady. I watched her sleep for a second before nearly falling off the bed as she spoke.

"Edward come here", she murmured. I recovered my composure and noticed that she still looked as if she were asleep.

The next sound I heard wasn't so much speaking as a low throaty moan. Her body moved on the bed, and I suddenly wondered whether she was dreaming about me. I moved a little further away from her – I felt like I was intruding, but simultaneously wanted so badly to know where this was going.

"Yes, oh god Edward, don't stop." Her hands moved and clenched at thin air as if she were trying to grasp at something or someone.

Her voice continued, "Oh god, it feels so good, keep going". The urgency was clear in her voice which was laced with lust. My body responded to her tone as I realized how much I wanted her dream to become our reality.

I had to wake her up. Even I knew this was wrong. I rested myself next to her and stroked her face calling her name.

"Bella honey, wake up. Are you ok?" I said while rubbing her cheek with my thumb.

Her eyes flew open and she was clearly startled as she looked up at me. Confusion flashed across her eyes as she tried to figure out whether she was dreaming or not.

"Edward?" she asked looking questioningly into my eyes for some assurance.

"I'm right here. Are you alright?" I asked looking into her chocolate eyes that were burning with passion and lust.

"I-I don't know are you sure you're really here?" she asked me. I barely concealed my chuckled as I replied that I definitely was. My hand cupped her cheek as I ran my thumb across the soft skin of her face.

Suddenly she moved and pulled me into a hug as we lay side by side. Her head rested on my chest and my arm wrapped around her, pulling her little body close to mine. She responded by lifting her leg up and placing it over mine, and tucking her toes under my ankle. It felt so right to be lying here together, our bodies intertwined.

"Edward?" she said into my chest.

"Yes Bella?" I replied, wondering what was on her mind. She lifted her head and rested her chin on my chest, looking up to my eyes.

"Will you stay in here with me?" she whispered.

"Of course" I replied pulling her close to me once again.

"Thank you" she mumbled before setting her head back on my chest. My fingers danced across her back, as my other hand reached to smooth the hair from her face. She reached up and ran her fingers through my hair, before settling at the nape of my neck and absently twirling the strands through her fingers.

I felt uncertain as I noticed how my own body reacted to her touch, but in spite of that, pulled her tight to me.

------------------------------------------------------------------Snowball Fight--------------------------------------------------------------

EPOV

I woke up with Bella wrapped in my arms, and smiled as I realized how right it felt. I was somewhat honored that she was comfortable enough with me to sleep in the same bed.

Looking across at the clock I noticed that we had just 3 hours until my family arrived – I needed to wake Bella so that we could have some time together before they descended upon us. I stroked my fingers gently up and down her back and she slowly began to stretch the sleep out of her little body.

Glancing up at me she smiled, and then confusion spread across her face. Startled to realize her position, she tumbled from the bed faster than I could react, ending up on the floor.

"Are you ok down there?" I asked leaning over the edge of the bed, concern lacing my voice as my eyes no doubt lit up with mirth.

"Fine" she glared up at me, a blush tinting her cheeks. She leaned on the bed while pulling herself up off of the floor. "So what are the plans for today?"

"I say we get ready and then walk to the 7-11 for some coffee and breakfast sausage dogs. I've been craving them ever since we've been stuck in this house." I replied sitting up in the bed as she picked out her outfit for the day from the dresser.

"I'll only go if you pull me in the sled" she responded with a smirk. I like that she's getting a lot more comfortable with me now.

I was confused. "What sled?"

"The one I saw in the basement yesterday."

"Fine – I'm just going to jump in the shower and then it's all yours".

She began to fold clothes from the laundry basket and set them into piles on the bed. I grabbed a change of clothes and headed to the bathroom. When I came out of the bathroom she was sitting on the bed looking impatient, clutching her towel, shampoo and a pile of clothes.

"It took you long enough. Did you have to make the soap yourself in there?" she said with a mischievous grin on her face.

I bowed and held the door opened for her gesturing with my other hand for her to enter.

"It's all yours princess." I replied grinning back at her. Somehow we had developed a great rapport and to be honest it was good for my ego seeing how she responded to our verbal sparring. If she only knew the effect she had on me.

I headed down to the basement in search of this mysterious sled. Sure enough a large wooden toboggan was resting against the wall, and I had no doubt that Alice had bought it on one of her many shopping trips – it still had the label on. I carried the sled upstairs and got dressed to face the arctic temperatures. I stuck my head out of the door to check on the weather, and was surprised to find that it was milder than previously. It was still fucking freezing though. A thick covering of snow still lay on the ground, but the streets looked ok to drive on. At least it wasn't snowing anymore and we would be able to fly out tomorrow.

I turned as I heard Bella behind me "Are you ready to go Rudolph?" she asked from the doorway. She was already dressed for the weather and the bobble on top of her hat bounced as she moved.

"Why Rudolph?" I asked confused.

"Your nose is bright red and you are my reindeer today because you're going to pull me to the store in the snow." I pulled my scarf up over my nose and headed down the front steps.

I placed the sled on the edge of the footpath "your chariot awaits milady" I said as I held my arm out to help her onto it. She carefully settled herself, then she smiled up at me before stating in a terrible English accent,

"Forward to the 7-11 good sir!"

I laughed as I grabbed the rope and began to make my way to the store.

Town was remarkably quiet – those out in the snow were mostly kids building snowmen. Suddenly I felt a something hit me in the middle of my back and I turned to see who had thrown the snowball. There were no kids around, and I was about to return to pulling Bella, when I noticed that she wouldn't meet my gaze…… very suspicious

"Did you just hit me with a snowball Ms. Swan?" I asked her.

"I don't know what you mean Edward" she replied as the telltale blush crept up her cheeks.

"mmhhhmm." I said and turned around and started walking again.

Two blocks later I felt another thud in the middle of my back. A barrage of snowballs went over my head and one hit me square on the ass. I turned on Bella immediately and glared, growling "what do you think you're doing young lady".

"I swear, it wasn't me. The first one a few blocks ago was me, but not those ones." She laughed, barely able to get the words out. Suddenly a snowball shot in from one side and hit Bella. She was caught so off guard that she tumbled off the sled and into the snow.

I reached down to help her up, and as we turned around, spotted the culprits. A couple of groups of kids appeared to be having some sort of snowball war, and we were suddenly caught up in the middle of it. Snowballs rained down on us from both sides.

"Run Bella." I grabbed her hand and picking up the sled. We ran as fast as we could in the direction of the 7-11, both of us laughing our heads off.

"We were ambushed. That's not fair." She said once we got inside and warmed up.

"This is war, I have a plan." I told her as I paid for our food. We sat on the sled outside eating our breakfast dogs and drinking coffee.

"Here's the plan. We're going to make as many snowballs as we can and pile them on the sled. On our way back, when they start to throw the snowballs we'll stop, and you take one side of the street and I'll take the other. How's that sound?"

She saluted, and replied "sir yes sir!" jumping to her feet while getting up and starting to make snow balls. I joined her and before we knew it the sled was completely covered.

On the way back we walked slowly waiting for someone to attack us. Bella spotted Mike walking on the other side of the road, and I grimaced as he greeted us.

Bella shushed him frantically when he came closer, worried he would blow out plan, before explaining to him what we were going to do. Mike enthusiastically joined us, and even though 'three's a crowd' I thoroughly enjoyed beating those kids at their own game….. They couldn't make snowballs fast enough.

After our victory Bella invited Mike in for cocoa, and as we got settled and took our snow gear off Bella headed to the kitchen to heat the milk.

"You and Bella seem really close" Mike commented to me, and the undertone in his voice was clear. Thankfully I was saved from having to make any comment as Bella suddenly screamed from the kitchen.

Both of us leapt up and ran to the kitchen, finding her standing on the counter looking positively terrified.

"It's over there get it. Kill it get it out." She screamed pointing to the stove.

"Bella, what on earth is it?" I asked, trying to coax her down from the counter.

"There's a mouse over there, kill it." She responded frantically. I grabbed the broom and dustpan, and headed for where she had pointed to. Moving the stove a little was from the wall, I found a small white mouse hiding, and breathed a sigh of relief.

"Relax Bella it's just one of Emmett's mice. It's food for his snake. Calm down." I trapped the mouse in my hands and headed up the stairs to return the mouse to its home.

I got back downstairs and found that Mike had helped Bella down from the countertop and was holding her in his arms as she sobbed. Her arms were wrapped his neck and his arm was around her waist.

I felt like I was watching them in slow motion as he gently lifted his hand to her cheek to wipe away her tears. She looked up into his eyes and he kissed the top of her head. Bella didn't make a move to push him away, and he continued, kissing her forehead, then the tip of her nose. My breathing stopped completely as he kissed my Bella on the lips. And he didn't just do it once. He did it three times.

She smiled up at him and I felt the vomit rise up my throat as she kissed him back. I turned away as they tilted their heads, and their tongues fought against each other.

I walked out of the doorway and back into the living room, turning to make it looking like I had just come downstairs as I walked into the kitchen again. "It's OK Bella, the mouse is back in its rightful place." They stopped kissing, but remained in their own world as I made the cocoa. Bella was resting her head on his chest and he was rubbing her back.

"Cocoa anyone?" I asked, setting two cups on the counter near them and taking a sip of my own. I put Marshmallows in hers because I knew she liked them.

She turned away from him and he loosened his grasp around her. They both took their cups and settled into the bar stools while I stood on the other side of the island. I felt like a third wheel, but was saved as the door swung open and Alice bounced in.

Bella seemed to snap out of the trance Mike had put her in, and greeted my sister as if they had been apart for years. Was it that bad to be stuck in the house with me? I had been under the impression that we had become a lot closer.

"Edward, how are you doing? Are you ok?" My sister asked bouncing over to me and hugging me. I hugged her back and nodded.

"I'm fine. How did you do trapped in the dorm with Emmett and Rosalie?" I enquired, thinking I was quite glad I hadn't been put into that position.

"It was …. Challenging" Alice responded with a smile, before looking into the lounge and grabbing Rosalie. They both stood openmouthed before turning to me. "When did those two hook up?" She asked pointing to the living room.

"Huh?" I wittily replied.

"Well Mike and Bella are in their own little world in there. I have never seen her blush so much, except of course when Edward is walking around half naked peeing in front of her." Alice laughed as Rosalie glared at me.

"I don't know what's going on but I'm going to find out tonight. We are having a slumber party in her room." Alice jumped out of my arms and finished up lunch for everyone.

I took a place at the counter and watched Alice prepare lunch. I definitely didn't want to go into the lounge and see them together.

BPOV

Wednesday Night

The seven of us settled in the living room to regale one another with our snowed in stories. We were all laughing as Emmett filled us in, but Edward was strangely quiet as he watched us all interact. When Alice talked us all into playing Disney Scene It, Edward remained outside of out 'girls v guys' teams and worked on his laptop on the dining room table.

Part was through the game I went to speak with him, and he looked up at me with pain in his eyes.

"Are you alright Edward? Is everything ok?" I asked, rubbing his shoulder. He placed his hand on mine and squeezed it gently.

"I'm OK, just thinking about going home and seeing my family." It felt like he was holding something back, but I couldn't put my finger on it. I guess it would all come out in time.

"Let me know if you need anything OK. I'm here for you, you know that right?" I kissed the top of his head and headed back to join the game.

About 15 minutes later I softly asked Mike if I could speak with him outside.

"Sure." He replied as he excused himself to put on his coat, gloves and hat. I told everyone that I would be right back and followed him.

He turned to me when we were alone on the porch and started talking before I had the change to say anything.

"Bella I really like you." He seemed so nervous. "I would very much like to take you out on a date."

I was a little surprised. We had texted and emailed back and forth and he had asked me for coffee a couple of times. I guess I never really expected him to actually ask me out. He seemed really sweet and popular, and I couldn't work out what he saw in me.

"That would be nice Mike I'd like that" I replied, honestly. A part of me was interested to see how it would go. "I can't go until next weekend though, I'm going to be out of town with the Cullen's as they've recently had a death in the family and we need to attend the funeral." So I guess what I'm saying is….." He interrupted me by placing a finger over my lips.

"It's OK, I understand. I'm going to head home, but call me if you need anything. I'll text you next Friday and we'll work out the details for our date. Try and think about where you want to go ok. I'll miss you while you're gone." He kissed me briefly and then left.

I walked back into the lounge and everyone was looking inquisitively at the door.

"What?" I asked looking at them

"Uh huh Bella I saw him kiss you." Alice said smirking at me looking mischievously. I felt my cheeks turn bright red.

"Bella relax. We all knew it was bound to happen. Now you have a boyfriend we can go on double or triple dates. Ooooooh this is going to be so much fun" Alice bounced as she got more and more excited. I had to set her straight.

"Alice calm down he is not my boyfriend we're just going on one date next weekend and that's it." I wasn't sure whether I was trying to convince myself or them.

"If you say so." Alice replied, looking as if she didn't believe me at all.

Thankfully the conversation moved away from my date for a little while, then Rosalie got up to make dinner for everyone. After dinner we all scattered about the house. Alice and I watched a DVD in the basement whilst we gossiped and caught up. I found out more than I ever needed to know about her and Jaspers sex life.

I filled her in on Edward and I becoming friends, and mentioned that we had slept in the same bed. I was so afraid she was going to be mad at me, or him, but she said she understood and thanked me for being there for him. I left out the details of the few times that we almost kissed. I didn't think she needed to hear that part. She was more interested in shopping for my date with Mike.

The doorbell rang and I heard Emmett head to the door. Alice and I headed up from the basement in case it was for one of us. Rosalie went out to see if everything was OK with Emmett and the next thing we heard was a load of shouting. Alice and I jumped up from the couch and peered out the window. We saw Emmett holding Rosalie back from trying to hit some girl. Alice went to join them and I followed. Alice skipped past Rosalie and got into the girl's face shaking her finger.

"You just get out of here Krissy. He doesn't want to see you right now. Now go away before I tell Emmett to release Rosalie." I looked up to see Edward and Jasper standing in the door.

Edward's face looked sad, angry and disappointed. He was staring at the girl right in the eyes. She was staring back at him.

"You listen to me Edward Cullen. You can't treat girls the way you do. One day it's going to come back and bite you in the dick. If you come with even an inch of my sister, so help me God, I'm going to kick your ass." She screamed at him

What on earth did he do? I had never seen any girl be forced up to his room…. if anything they were dragging him up there. The girl walked back to her car, then turned and looked right at Edward whilst mouthing the words "I'm watching you." I thought people only did that in films. Now I was freaked out. I couldn't think of anything that he had done to deserve this. He wasn't violent and he was always nice to the girls that came over. I couldn't imagine him hurting anyone so much to cause them to be this upset.

We all walked back inside and I pulled Alice aside to ask her what it was about. Alice told me that Krissy had hooked up with Edward last year and then her sister Stephanie had hooked up with him this year. The two girls must have talked and found out about each other. Krissy was upset because Stephanie was a virgin and Edward had told her that he would call her and never did. When she called him he would say he was busy or that he couldn't talk. For some reason I felt quite disappointed in him.

"It was her own fault" commented Alice, the anger still evident in her voice. "She was the one who decided to give him her virginity."

We all had a busy day of travelling in store for tomorrow, so after the showdown outside we headed to our respective rooms. I settled into the guest room and must have dozed off whilst reading as I woke to hand shaking my shoulder. I looked up to see Edward standing next to me holding his pillow. I sat up rubbing my eyes.

"Hey what's up? Is everything ok?" I asked through a yawn.

"No" He replied looking down at his pillow.

"What happened? Where is everyone? Are they OK? What happened? Are you hurt?" I panicked as my mind ran through the possible scenarios.

"No, no everyone is fine. They're all asleep. Would it be ok if I slept in here with you?" He looked at me through those dark eyelashes and I melted. Did he even need to ask?

I lifted the covers as silent confirmation.

He nodded his thanks, and lay down, facing me.

I rolled over so we faced each other, and pulled his covers up to make sure he stayed warm.

"Do you want to talk about it?" I asked.

He shook his head gently "I just need to hold you."

"OK" I whispered, rolling over and pressing my body back against his. He reached his arm around my waist pulling me closer against him, and I felt his nose brush through my hair as he inhaled. He nuzzled his chin on top of my head and brought his knees up against mine. Every inch of our bodies was pressed together. It didn't take me long to fall asleep.