-------------------------------------------------------------------------Going Home----------------------------------------------------------------------
EPOV
Thursday Morning
The smell of her strawberry shampoo surrounded me as we lay together. I knew before I even opened my eyes that she was still asleep. Her breathing was gentle and I felt myself begin to drift back to sleep, relaxed by simply knowing she was there.
I was startled back out of my dozing by her voice "mmmmm don't stop" she said softly as her hips moved against me. What was I doing that I shouldn't stop?
"Deeper….. oh God….. please don't stop." her perky ass pressed into me and I felt my own reaction as she moved against me. Was she asleep?
"Bella don't stop what?" I asked into her ear. Nothing. I slowly sat up so that I could see her face. She was definitely asleep.
Her breathing was steady and her eyes closed, but I could see her eyelids flickering as she dreamt. I couldn't quite work out whether it was a dream or a nightmare, so I hugged her closer to me.
"More, please faster…….. I'm so close." She mumbled. Was she having a sex dream? And if so who was it about….. I didn't think I could bear to listen to her dreaming about Mike when she was in my arms.
"Edward" she moaned. "Don't stop it feels so good." She was having a sex dream about me? My body rushed with warmth as I realized the possibilities that came with this. I felt the smile cross my face, as I again hugged Bella tight to my body.
The next thing I knew, Alice had burst into the room.
"Wake up, wake up. It's time to get up you two." Her small body bounced up and down on the edge of the bed. I was still half asleep, and looked over to see Bella in much the same state, rubbing sleep from her eyes as she scowled at Alice.
"Seriously Alice, what time is it? How can you possibly be this awake when it's clearly still the middle of the night" Bella's voice dripped with sarcasm, and was still thick with sleep.
Alice jumped up off the bed and grabbed Bella's hand, dragging her from the room. Looking around the room I suddenly realized where I was, and a beat later that Alice had caught Bella and I in bed together. I fell back to the bed with a groan as I thought of the grilling Bella would be getting right about now. Oh, and the roasting I was going to get from Alice later. I was not looking forward to that at all.
Emerging from the bedroom, I saw Emmett in the hallway and followed him to his room to catch up.
"So how was it being trapped at the dorms?" I asked, struggling to keep the smile off my face.
"Not great" responded Rosalie with a scowl, "and let me tell you Bella's bed is not big enough for Emmett and I" she stretched her body with this statement, rubbing her shoulder.
"I never want to be trapped in a room with Alice and Jasper again" Emmet chipped in, wrinkling his nose in disgust, "if you think they're all over each other here, believe me, you have no idea."
"Thanks for the image Em but I could have done without it." I replied, trying frantically to imagine something other than Alice and Jasper.
"So are you guys ready to head to the airport" I asked.
"Pretty much I think, Rosie just has a few things to add to the bags" Emmet smiled, before lowering his voice slightly. "How're you holding up dude? Have you caught up with mom yet?" And so the questions and hovering begin.
"I'm fine, and yes, I've spoken to Mom", I turned to leave the room. I didn't need any more concerned looks from them. I just want to be alone. Well not entirely alone. I wanted Bella to lay here with me and hold me while I slept.
BPOV
"Spill" Alice shrieked as soon as we made it to her room.
"Can I at least use the bathroom first?" I asked trying to avoid the questions.
"Yes, but you only have 10 minutes. Get ready quickly and I'll meet you downstairs. I've put your clothes out for you and you're already packed. Don't even think about hiding up here for the next 30 minutes young lady" Alice pointed her index finger at me to emphasize her point before skipping out of the room.
I headed to the bathroom, grateful I didn't meet Edward en route. My mind ran over waking up next to him this morning. Even though my mind was screaming that it was so wrong, for some reason I felt strangely safe and comfortable in his arms, as if we somehow fit together perfectly.
I got back to my room and was hit by Edwards intoxicating scent. My heart started to pound and my stomach jumped. I suddenly knew what this was…. I have a crush on Edward Cullen. Oh God.
I sank to the bed and contemplated this revelation. This cannot be happening. Especially not since I like Mike so much. Mike is everything Edward isn't, he's sweet and gentle and understanding. Somehow I have to get rid of this crush on Edward.
Glancing at the clock I realized my 10 minutes was almost up. I quickly dressed and met Alice in the kitchen. Jasper and Emmett were messing around on that Madden game in the lounge and Alice was nursing a cup of, hopefully decaf, coffee at the kitchen counter.
"Hey Alice" I smiled as I headed to get my own mug of full strength coffee.
That look in her eyes told me she wasn't taking any prisoners, and I was right. "Did you have sex with my brother?" was her opening gambit.
"Alice, of course we didn't have sex. I told you last night about all of this. He came to my room last night because he was upset… I couldn't say no when he asked to stay with me" Alice continued to regard me skeptically, so I emphasized the point "Edward and I are just friends. Nothing more." I turned to finish up my coffee, and waited for her response.
She breathed a sigh of relief, "Thank God. I love my brother, but I really don't want you to get hurt, and he will hurt you."
I turned with a wry smile, "I know Alice, but we really are just friends". I didn't mention my feelings this morning, or the fact that I knew I wasn't exactly in Edwards target demographic. "I think he sees me more as a sister" I finished as I headed to the lounge to chat with the boys.
Alice's POV
Thursday Afternoon
When I found my brother in Bella's bed this morning, I was shocked to say the least. The two of them barely spoke, so why were they suddenly sharing a bed. Unfortunately I know my brother too well, and have to confess that I assumed the worst. I know that Edward is a good person, and wouldn't hurt anyone intentionally, but I don't think he has any understanding of how girls are affected by him. All I know is that there is no way he is going to treat Bella like those other tramps. He needs to grow up a lot before he is worthy of someone like her.
I rested my head back on the seat as the plane began its descent into Seattle. It hadn't escaped my notice that Bella was studiously avoiding Edward. She had spent the entire journey with either me or Emmett. I have no idea why, but I would get to the bottom of it before long.
We collected our bags and headed through the airport, finding Dad waiting for us just as he said he would be. We greeted him, before piling our bags into the car and all climbing in. Once again Edward and Bella avoided one another.
The journey home was filled with chatter about school, and when we arrived home I ran out to greet my mother, who looked devastated. She was clearly distraught over the loss of her father, I had never seen her so…… undone.
Edward was hot on my heels, as he bolted from the car and raced to embrace Mom as well. As I stepped away he crashed to his knees, burying his head in her stomach and wrapping his arms around her middle. Silent tears poured down her face as she stroked his hair while his body shuddered with grief.
My mother and grandfather had a difficult relationship. I was surprised to see her so upset, and turned to my father who had walked up behind us.
"Has she been like this the whole time?" I asked looking back to my brother and mother embraced in their grief.
"Yes" he answered, his voice filled with concern. "She's barely slept. Every moment has been spent worrying about Edward." The pain was obvious in his voice, and I knew he felt helpless.
Edward and Mom were immovable, but the rest of us headed inside. The funeral was tomorrow and we had to get the house ready the wake.
It was clear that Mom was in no condition to handle this right now, so I assigned everyone a task and took over. I called the funeral home and went over the arrangements, and then called the lawyer to confirm the will reading. Bella and Rosalie were tasked with making dinner, while Emmett, Jasper and Dad moved furniture to set up the house.
By dinner time everyone was exhausted. Edward and my mother had come inside a few hours ago and were upstairs in my parent's bedroom. Bella and Rosalie had made a spread of delicious comfort food, and I sent Emmet up to get Edward and mom.
Immediately after dinner mom bid us all goodnight, and we retired to the lounge. We all settled to watch a film, and shortly after the opening sequence I heard a crashing noise from the kitchen. Emmett and my father leapt up as I noticed that Edwards was not in the lounge with us.
The rest of us rushed to the kitchen to find Edward on the floor surrounded by broken dishes and glass. His arm was cut and bleeding onto the floor. My father reached over to try and help him, but Edward screamed and punched at the cabinet.
Dad stepped back and pleaded with him in a soothing tone. Edwards only response was rage.
I tried to go over but dad put his hand up to stop me. Jasper pulled me close to him as Emmett stepped forward. He received the same response as dad. Thinking that my mother would know what to do, I asked Rosalie to go upstairs and get her. Just as she turned to head for the stairs Bella reached out to stop her.
"Just let me try first" she asked as she stepped forward.
Bella moved so that she was on the opposite side of Edward to my father, and spoke quietly "Edward, look at me, you're hurt. You have to let your dad help you, you're bleeding."
She slowly reached her arm out, and Edward turned his head calmly to look at her.
"Edward, please, let's get you cleaned up ok?" She pleaded with him to get up. Edward continued to stare at her, and I hear Rosalie speak to me.
"Alice should I go get your mom?" Rosalie whispered into my ear.
"Yes please. Don't tell her what's going on, just have her come down." I whispered back.
As I turned back to the scene in front of me I saw Bella move slowly towards a shard of glass. She picked it up and before anyone could stop her, she pressed it into her palm. Blood flowed from the wound, and she reached her hand out towards Edward.
She said just one word "Ouch", but that's all it took. Edward's head snapped up, and as soon as he saw her bleeding hand he leapt up. He stepped carefully around the glass before bringing Bella to sit at the dining room table. He got the first aid kit from the cabinet and began to clean and bandage her cut.
At some point my mother had come downstairs and as she watched Bella and Edward interact, she reached for my hand.
"What happened?" she whispered in my ear, not wanting to disturb what was going on. I quietly filled her in before we both turned back to the dining room.
Bella spoke again, in the same quiet tone, "thank you Edward it's much better now." He looked up to meet her gaze. "Now you need to let your dad help you. You're bleeding too sweetie." Her voice was so calm, as if nothing was really going on.
As my father began to tend to Edwards arm, Edward reached for Bella. He pulled her into his lap with his free arm, and buried his head in her neck as he began to cry. She wrapped her arms around him and gently stroked his hair. I glanced at my mother, worried about her reaction to Edward and Bella's apparent intimacy. I needn't have worried though, but she had a smile on her face as she turned to return to bed.
Seeing that things were now calmed, we all made our way out of the dining room and drifted into our respective couples. I was completely dumbfounded. I had never witnessed anything like that in my life.
When my dad was finished fixing up Edward's arm he got the broom and started to clean up the mess. Jasper got the mop out and began to clean up the blood.
Edward lifted Bella up and carried her to a sofa in the living room. I moved to follow them, wanting to protect my friend, but also curious to see more of this bond they apparently shared. I sat in the chair closest to the sofa they had taken. Edward had settled on the sofa with Bella straddling his lap, and he pulled her legs closer to him. I looked up to her face and saw he eyes filled with concern and worry. She didn't look scared. I was scared. I was scared my brother was going to hurt my friend.
"Bella, are you ok?" I whispered over to her as she continued to stroke his hair.
"I'm fine Alice. I don't understand why, but this seems to calm him down." She looked up at me as she replied.
He began to unbutton her shirt. Fearing the worst, I was about to get up and stop him when he moved her shirt slightly open and pressed his cheek to her chest. He wrapped his arms around her back and pulled her close. All of the tension evaporated from his body as he pulled her close.
Dad and Jasper had moved across to the lounge by now, and when I looked at them they had the same incredulous looked plastered on their faces as I am sure I did. Anger flashed across my dad's face, and I got up turn off some of the lights, gesturing for them to follow me out of the room.
I explained to both of them what had happened, and we decided to leave Edward and Bella be. It was obvious that Bella knew how to handle Edward, but I was definitely going to have a long talk with my roommate about what had happened when they had been snowed in together
The following day I woke up snuggled close to Jazz at about 8am. I relaxed in his arms as I considered the events of the previous night, and the day to come. Today was going to emotionally charged for all of us. Some of us were closer to my grandfather than others, and I had never really been allowed to develop a relationship with him. I didn't understand when I was younger, but as I became older it made more sense. He was essentially Edward times a million.
After my gran had died my pop became what you could call a ladies' man or a playboy. Mom told me when I got older about all of the various women that would tramp around and then be dismissed like garbage when he was done with them. My mom didn't want me to grow up thinking that is how women should be treated so she kept me at a distance from him.
He was a great father and a wonderful grandfather but certainly not the best life example. Edward however seemed to pick up both his outlook and lifestyle, and the two became very close.
Pop had always wanted a son and viewed Edward as that opportunity. Edward loved and idolized him so much. They could talk for hours about everything, and whenever Edward was upset as a child, he would go to Mom or Pop. That's not to say we weren't close in our own way. Edward was extremely protective of me.
When Jazz and I started dating he almost broke Jazz's nose, even though the two of them were the best of friends. They soon got past it though, and their friendship has never been stronger. My brother has never been in love. The closest he has come is a crush, and that was short-lived. I hope nothing happens with Bella as I don't think I could choose between the two of them.
As I got up I was careful not to wake Jazz. I showered, dressed and headed down to the kitchen. Dad was sipping coffee at the table whilst Mom was cooking breakfast. Rosalie was flipping through a magazine while Emmett hovered around trying to steal a rasher of bacon. The usual family breakfast.
I turned to the lounge with trepidation, silently wondering what my mother may have walked in on this morning. Thankfully Edward was curled up alone under the blanker. I turned as I heard Bella walking down the stairs, smiling in greeting.
She was dressed in a knee length black dress, and I cringed as I noticed her footwear, before putting it to the back of my mind and returning her greeting.
Bella went over to kneel in front of Edward on the couch. She gently shook his shoulder and stroked his hair away from his face. "Edward, wake up. You need to get ready. Sweetie wake up." She said softly, trying to wake him.
I slowly turned and went back into the kitchen. I didn't want to disturb them and I definitely didn't want to see Edward break down again. I settled at the table with the rest of the family for breakfast. Everyone made polite conversation avoiding the elephant in the room. I certainly wasn't going to be the one to bring it up. Unsurprisingly Emmett was less subtle.
"What the hell is wrong with Edward? He just flipped out for no reason."
"Honestly Emmett, I have no idea. People deal with grief in different ways though, so we are going to have to be patient with him," my dad replied.
"Oh" was Emmett's response. I could see Rosalie squeezing his hand probably telling him to keep quiet before he upset anyone.
The caterers arrived shortly after breakfast and I directed them around the house. Once they were organized, we settled to wait for Edward so that we could head to Church for the funeral at noon.
Bella walked into the living room pulling Edward along behind her. His face registered no emotion, but he looked decent enough. He was wearing his black suit with a grey shirt and black tie. His shoes looked polished and I was impressed with the overall effect. His knuckles were turning white from gripping Bella's hand so tightly and I saw her eyes narrow as she winced slightly in pain.
I tapped my mother's shoulder to get her attention.
My mother immediately walked over to Edward, pulling him into an embrace. He let go of Bella's hand to return moms greeting.
Bella took the seat next to me and looked at me with gratitude. We definitely needed to have a talk, sooner rather than later. I knew now was not the time, but I really needed to understand both her relationship with my brother, and how functional Edward was.
The driver arrived to take us all to the Church for the short funeral service. Pop was not a religious man, which was only emphasized by the number of women scattered throughout the pews sobbing gently into their handkerchiefs. There were also a couple of older couples, and some of my grandmothers friends, who were whispering amongst themselves.
After the funeral we went to the cemetery where pop was buried next to my grandmother and his parents. Mom and Edward seemed o be holding each other together, and were glued to each other the entire time. Dad was also at my mom's side offering his support. Bella walked close behind me keeping her hands at her sides and fidgeting nervously with her dress.
I grabbed her hand to calm her, and she smiled gratefully.
We returned to the car and headed home for the wake. As soon as I stepped through the door I quietly dealt with the few errors which had been made before returning to my family. Before long we were all scattered amongst the guests who were offering their condolences and sympathies.
I saw Emmett sneak Rosalie outside to escape. My father was sticking close to my mother and Edward was still at her side holding her arm lie a lifeline. As more and more people asked to speak with my mother alone she eventually walked over to Bella. Unhitching Edwards arm from hers, she passed him into Bella's waiting arms.
My mother gently kissed his head and thanked Bella before walking away to attend to the many people who were waiting on her. Jazz was by my side throughout, holding my hand and gently pressing the occasional kiss to my temple.
As the crowds began to thin, I directed the cleaning team to deal with the main areas of the house and the family moved to the lounge. Mom and Dad headed up to bed first, while Rosalie and Emmett headed towards the home theatre to watch a movie. Jazz and I settled together, our fingers gently intertwined. Bella was sitting with Edward, her hand knotted with both of his. She looked exhausted, whilst his face remained expressionless.
Tomorrow was going to be a long day. We had the reading of the will, and had to pack up pop's house. I had no idea how Edward was going to deal with that.
ESME POV
Saturday - Reading of the will
Although I had not been close to my father for many years I was still shaken by his death. Since my mother passed away, he and I had not been as close as we should have been. My father had loved her dearly, and she was his entire world. After her death he changed irrevocably, and his heart closed off not only to me, but to others as well. This changed which I had Emmett, and he took to being a grandfather very quickly, repeating the cycle with Edward and Alice. They would visit often and brought about a change in my father that I never thought was possible.
Everything l changed one weekend when Alice returned from a visit and asked about sex. I immediately called my father to find out what had been going on, and he explained that the children walked in on him and a young lady in a compromising position. I was more than livid. I knew he had taken the company of several women after my mother passed away, but I was never exposed to them. I forbade him from seeing his grandchildren unless he changed his ways, but he refused to change his lifestyle and so the visits stopped.
A few months later, Edward began to act up, crying for his grandfather. Despite my explanations, he wouldn't let it go, and I broke down and compromised with my father. He agreed to not have women over while the children were there.
So the visits resumed and Edwards relationship with his grandfather grew ever stronger. I can see the direct impact this has had on his life. He has never been in love. He has never had a broken heart. He has never known what it is like to care for someone outside of his family.
I found out the Edward had lost his virginity when he was 14 to one of my father's conquests. His personal life had started on the wrong track and continued that way. In so many other ways he was a model son, but he had absolutely no respect for women outside the family.
Somehow I thought Bella could be the one to pull Edward out of this spiral he was in. I was speechless when I witnessed how Bella handled Edward in the kitchen, and felt a weight lift from my shoulders when I saw the way he looked at her. He was in love for the first time. She wouldn't be like the other girls.
Bella was sweet and charming, organized and smart. She was everything Edward needed in his life and I could see a strong connection between the two of them. It put my mind at ease to know that each of my children had found someone who they could share their life with, even if they didn't fully appreciate it yet. They had each found someone who balanced them perfectly.
I got downstairs to a busy kitchen. These college kids sure do wake up early. Everyone was showered and dressed. Bella was making breakfast with Edward sitting at the counter watching her every move. I wondered how far they have gone with their relationship. I hope he wasn't pressuring her into doing something she didn't want to do yet. Jasper and Alice were looking over a magazine together while Rosalie was flipping through modern bride. Emmett was sitting at the counter next to Edward waiting for food as usual. My husband came down behind me and wrapped his arms around my waist. He kissed me on the neck and whispered "I love you." into my ear.
I was pleased with the sight before me. Everyone seemed to be in better spirits. At least Edward was not clinging to anyone and he was able to sit next to Emmett. It smelled wonderful. We all took our places for breakfast.
"Bella darling this smells wonderful you didn't have to do this."
"Mrs. Cullen it's the least I could do, you all have been so good to me."
"Now Bella, it's Esme, not Mrs Cullen. You know that." I chided gently.
"Sorry, Esme." She returned my smile whilst gesturing for us all to eat.
The boys cleared up after breakfast, the silence filling the room. We were all trying to process the events of the last few days.
Eventually I broke the silence, and ushered us all together to head to my father's estate for the reading of the will.
When we arrived the lawyer was sitting in my father's study with envelopes all over the desk. He directed us to the home theatre as the will had been recorded onto DVD.
The three DVD's distributed my father's fortune fairly, with his grandchildren and breast cancer research being the primary beneficiaries. There were some assets which were gifted directly to individuals, including Jasper and Rosalie, and provision was made for their future families as well as Edwards.
Perhaps unsurprisingly there was a separate DVD for Edward, and we were all asked to leave the room for its screening. As we all stood, a beautiful young lady headed straight towards Edward rather than to the back of the theatre. Her hourglass figure attracted the attention of all of the males in the room as she walked to the front. She knelt in front of him, and placed a hand on his thigh.
"I'm so sorry for your loss" she said softly. "I know how much you meant to each other." She passed him an envelope before casting him a sympathetic look and leaving the room.
The rest of us stood to leave and Edward reached for my hand in question.
"Edward, this is meant for just you. It's what he wanted." I gently released my arm from his grasp. His eyes were filled with grief and fear as I turned to leave the room. He rose from his chair and grabbed Bella's arm. She turned to him and hugged him tightly. When she turned to leave he pulled her close to his chest and picked her up while walking back to his seat. He set her down and took his seat before pulling her into his lap.
Bella looked to me as I nodded for her to stay, and she nodded back.
"Edward, are you sure you want her here?" Mr. Goldman asked "There may be some things on this that you might not want anyone to hear."
"I need her." That was all he said as he wrapped his arms around Bella's waist and settled back in his chair to watch the DVD. Mr. Goldman pressed a button on the remote control and left the room.
Mr. Mason
"So Edward, here we are having this talk a little too late for me to see whether it helps you or not. I don't need to tell you how much you mean to me and how much it has meant for me to have you in my life. When you were born I saw something special in you. You were a carefree yet serious child. You were eager to learn anything and everything that I could show you. I fear that I have taught you the wrong things. I know that you are a gifted musician and appreciate the arts and literature. My concern for you is life and love. You were not around to see the man I was when I was with your grandmother."
A tear slowly makes its way down his face.
"My way of life is not a way of life. It is a destructive path that I wish you had never embarked upon. I didn't realize this until recently and was too ashamed to tell you while I was still alive. I loved your grandmother with all of my heart but when she was taken from me I was broken. My heart was broken and has never healed. I use women to fill my physical needs and to distract me from the pain that consumes my heart. I should have let your mother keep you from me. This was no way for you to learn about love and women. You spent too much time observing my behavior and copying what you saw."
"It doesn't help that you have inherited my good looks." Mr. Mason chuckles as he sips his brandy.
"You see there is so much more to life. There is love and laughter. The joy of seeing a woman smile when you bring her flowers. The love you feel when you share that first soft kiss with someone special."
"There is happiness in just holding her hand, or smiling at her from across a crowded room. There is love in arguing over what restaurant to go to for dinner or who forgot to pay the phone bill. Life is full of love."
"Love is something that I want for you. I want you to find it with someone special. I know that you may not find her today or tomorrow but you have to try and open up and find that person who will complete you. Someone who will appreciate your love of music and literature. Someone who will attend a symphony with you, who will go to art galleries with you. It may take a while to find someone but it is worth the wait and the searching."
"There should have been a very attractive young woman here today and she should have given you an envelope. I am asking you to please rip it up or burn it and tell her thank you but you have to decline."
"Edward, I leave you with this last bit of advice for when you do find love and how to hold onto it."
"A happy life is a happy wife."
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Back to School-------------------------------------------------------------
BPOV
Sunday
We were on our way back to school, and I was more than in awe of the private jet that we were on. Part of the inheritance, Esme had kindly offered it to us for the return journey to school. I felt like I was living a scene from a movie.
There were only four of us on the plane, as Rosalie and Emmett had left on Saturday night to drive the RV back that was part of Emmett's inheritance. Alice was sound asleep in Jasper's lap as he read a book. Edward was reading one of his medical texts with his head propped against the window. I couldn't stay focused on the book I was supposed to be reading. My mind kept returning to the DVD I had watched with Edward.
I had barely heard most of the DVD, but I had an understanding of the message which had been conveyed. I had watched Edward's reactions throughout the film, seeing pain etched across his features. When the DVD concluded his face was devoid of any emotion as he took the disc from the player and pocketed it.
We walked from the screening room separately, and when I joined the others in the hallway, Edward was nowhere to be seen. He emerged from the restroom a couple of minutes later, and indicated that he would meet us back at the house later. As we were leaving I saw him walking towards the brunette. Wrapping her arm around her waist he led her down the hall. I shook my head, realizing that his grandfather's words had had no impact upon him whatsoever.
When we got back to the house, Alive pulled me into the family room and settled both of us on the sofa. 'This can't be good' I thought as I saw the sparkle in her eyes. Sure enough, she launched into her interrogation without preamble.
"Now that all of the drama is over and we are alone, what is going on with you and my brother?" Soda flew out of my nose as I choked on my drink. Alice simply smiled and waited for my response as I struggled to regain some composure.
"Oh come on Bella. Just tell me what happened over the snow days. Please." She said looking at me with begging eyes.
"I can't deny you anything with that puppy dog look can I Alice?"
Alice laughed as she made herself comfortable. I filled her in on everything which had happened, and we were still catching up when Jasper came in from helping Carlisle with some boxes they had been moving into the garage. Jasper said his goodnights and headed up to bed as Alice promised to join him shortly. We both settled back to our idle chatter when we heard a car in the driveway. Alice and I leapt up and scurried to peer out of the window.
We were greeted by the sight of Edward leaning over that beautiful woman's car passionately kissing her goodnight. His hair was more of a mess than usual and his clothing was more than a little disheveled. He skipped up the steps and opened the door.
"Hey guys, what's up? Is everyone asleep already?" he grinned down at Alice and I. My mouth hung open and I could feel the fury rising in my chest. How could he do that to his grandfather to his mother? Hadn't he heard his grandfather's words?
"Who was that woman?" Alice asked
"That was Kendra; she was a little something I inherited from Pop." He replied, smiling at the memory of what they had shared. What an ass.
I felt the tears of rage pricking at the back of my eyes, and I slapped Edward with all my might before turning and running up the stairs to Alice's room. Jasper was sitting on the bed when I burst into the room, and he simply opened his arms and pulled me into a hug. I sobbed into his shoulder while he rubbed my back soothingly. I didn't even hear Alice come into the room and didn't remember falling asleep.
The next morning I packed up my belongings and walked downstairs, ready to head back to school. Jasper stayed away from both Alice and I, giving us some space, whilst Edward was back to his usual self. He was bright and cheery as his bid Esme goodbye before heading out to the car.
Esme pulled me to one side before we left. "Bella darling, I want to thank you for taking care of my baby through all of this. You don't know how much it means to me. And I'm so pleased that you and Edward are together. I always knew he would find a wonderful girl like you."
My eyes widened as I listened to her words. She was clearly in denial about Edwards behavior, and didn't know me at all.
I laid my hand on her arm as I filtered my thoughts to prepare an appropriate response. "Esme," I began. "I am glad that I could be some support to Edward and your family during this difficult time, but there is absolutely nothing more than a fledgling friendship going on between us. Nor will there ever be. I'm sorry." I kissed her gently in the cheek and hugged her goodbye.
As the plane descended to the airport, I gathered my thoughts and packed away my book. When had landed I grabbed my bag and headed straight for a cab. I didn't wait for Alice or Jasper, I just wanted to escape. I texted Alice to let her know what was going on
A-
I'm sorry but I can't be around him right now. I'm getting a cab back to the dorm - I'll pick up my truck and stuff from the house one day this week. Tell Jazz thanks. I'm sorry. Love ya
Bells
I fell asleep that night crying into my pillow. I had known what he was like, but I had fooled myself into thinking he had changed. I was frustrated by my conflicting feelings for him. A part of me was repulsed by his activities and blatant disregard for the feelings of the women he brought to his bed. But I had seen a different side to him. A vulnerable side, where the walls were down and he was exposed. I knew that I could fall in love with that side of Edward, but I also knew that his womanizing side would never disappear. I couldn't allow myself to fall in love with any part of him when I knew I would be hurt every day. I just couldn't. So it was back to plan A - I had to get over this crush on Edward Cullen once and for all.
BPOV
One Week Later
Today I was finally going to collect my truck from Alice's house. It had become too difficult to get by without it, and I knew I was going to have to face Edward at some point. I still found myself hoping he wasn't there though.
As I walked to the house my thoughts turned to Mike. We had arranged to go on a double date with Jasper and Alice this weekend. I wasn't sure how I felt about him, but thought I would take a chance, and see how things turned out.
I turned the corner to the house, and found Edward sitting on the steps listening to his iPod. A mantra began to run through my head "you can do this, you can do this". I marched straight over to my truck, not making eye contact with Edward, but was intercepted as I reached the driver's door.
EPOV
I felt a warm smile cross my face as Bella walked towards her truck, her hips swaying with her stride. I had been sitting here all day since Alice told me that Bella was coming to get her truck today.
I had never expected her to get so upset with my gift, and certainly hadn't expected her to bitch slap me. For some reason it hurt me a lot more knowing the passion and feeling behind her attack.
I had felt like a piece of shit. I know I shouldn't have gone with Kendra, hell, I shouldn't even have read the note. But it didn't matter. Once she handed me the note my decision was made. I listened to the DVD and I had watched it every day since we got back to school. None of it made sense. I couldn't love anyone. Not right now.
I knew I could easily fall in love with Bella. She would hold me and be there for me. She would kiss me and rub my back. I didn't deserve her kindness, and couldn't risk hurting her. Falling in love right now was not a good idea. But I needed a friend, and wanted to show I cared about her. I knew I had some apologizing to do and I must have picked up the phone five or six times every day, but I never got the courage to call or text her. This was something that had to be done face to face. This was my chance.
"Bella, can we talk." I asked walking over to her truck. She ignored me.
"Please Bella; I need to talk to you. I want to apologize." I was leaning against her truck blocking her now. She looked pissed, but still heart wrenchingly beautiful.
"Bella, please talk to me. I know you're mad but I need a chance to explain." Fuck. Did I just say that? I couldn't explain what I did. She looked at me, clearly awaiting my explanation.
"Fuck Bella. I don't know why I did it. But please forgive me. I miss you." Honesty was always good, right?
"Bella, please don't be like this. I'm begging you here. I was wrong and I'm so sorry." I couldn't read her face and was on the verge of tears at the thought that she may not accept my apology.
She tapped her foot as she regarded me with her big brown eyes. They were filled with pain and hurt. I didn't realize that what I had done had hurt her so much. I didn't even know she cared about me that much. I had no idea what to do or say, so I simply waited for her response.
"Fine. We can try to be friends. " She glared at me. Clearly I was going to have to put in more effort to earn her forgiveness.
"We can try and be friends. But you have to start considering other people's feelings. It's not all about you and your needs Edward." Her jaw was set and she was breathing heavily, obviously trying to control her anger.
I smiled at her beauty, even when she was angry with me. My smile earned a quizzical look which I was quick to respond to.
I went with honesty again - it seemed to work the first time. "You are adorable when you are mad."
She rolled her eyes and turned to get into the truck.
"Bella?"
"What Edward." She now had a little smile on her face, and her voice wasn't laced with rage. Things were looking up.
"Will you please come to dinner this Sunday?" I asked sincerely, meeting her gaze.
"I can't stay long, but yes, I'll come." So I would see her again soon. I was on a roll, so I decided to push ahead "do you want to hang out Saturday night and watch a movie or something?"
"I can't I'm going out with Jasper and Alice. It's Valentine's Day."
"Um, Bella, it's Valentine's day. Don't you think they would want to be alone?"
"I know what day it is Edward. We're going on a double date." Huh? Who is Bella dating? How can she be mad at me for Kendra when she is the one who is actually dating someone?
"With who?" The words just popped out of my mouth, entirely unedited.
"None of your business." She said with a smirk on her face. She drove off, leaving me stunned and confused.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Valentine's Day------------------------------------------------------------
BPOV
Saturday – Valentine's Day – The Date
Alice had insisted on helping me pick out an outfit for tonight. When I agreed to go out on a double date with Mike, Jasper, Alice and I hadn't realized that it was actually on Valentine's Day. I went to the hallmark after work and I picked up a friendship type valentines card for Mike. I got him a pair of Miller Lite Pjs' from Target because I noticed that was the beer he was drinking at his party earlier this year. I wasn't sure if he was going to get me anything but thought it better to be prepared.
Alice insisted that we get ready at the house instead of the dorm because the bathroom was bigger and she needed room to make me beautiful. I was a little nervous but I just put myself in her hands. I trusted her, she was of course my best girl friend. She picked out a mid length pink sweater dress with a brown belt. It clung to my body with a scoop neck showing off a little more cleavage than I was used to. At least it had long sleeves. I wore my brown ballerina flats with nude stockings. The dress rested right above my knee. I took a look in the mirror and smiled at the result.
She applied foundation in the hope of hiding my blush that was sure to creep up tonight. She used baby pink eye shadow and brown eyeliner and mascara. It was a natural look and I liked it. It wasn't too heavy but just right. I used some of my strawberry lip gloss while she curled my hair in loose bouncy curls that hung down my back. She pinned a few sections in the front up with little rhinestone clips. I looked beautiful. I was so excited. I had been relieved to find that Edward was not there when I arrived at the house, but unfortunately his booming voice announced his return before we had al headed out.
"How many girls are in the bathroom and what is taking them so long?" I heard Edward's voice from somewhere on the same floor as us.
"Edward it's Valentine's Day! They are getting ready for their dates. You know some people actually go out instead of just fucking." Rosalie shouted from downstairs.
Alice and I both giggled as I helped her with her hair. Alice curled her hair out and applied light makeup with sparkly lip gloss and a little blush. She had on black footless leggings and a red short sweater dress with cap sleeves. She had a black belt and black fuck me heels on. She was absolutely adorable. Jasper was going to love it.
Speak of the devil I thought as I heard his voice from downstairs, "Alice we're going to be late if you don't hurry up Mike's already here waiting."
My heart panicked as I thought of Mike waiting for me downstairs and Emmett giving him the stink eye. Even worse Edward would probably say something entirely inappropriate. In a panic I hustled Alice along and we made it downstairs.
When I got to the bottom of the steps I saw Emmett and Rosalie leaving the house. He had planned a special night for them and they wouldn't be home until tomorrow. Mike and Jasper were seated on the couch and froze mid-rise from their seats. They both stared at us with their mouths wide open. They looked like startled deer caught in the headlights.
Mike was wearing a chocolate colored sweater with khaki dress pants and brown loafers. I could see a cream shirt collar peeking up from under his sweater. His black hair was short and his face was clean shaven. His blue eyes sparkled against his dark lashes. He looked a lot different then the disheveled frat boy I had seen over the past couple of months. A loud bang brought me out of my gaze and I turned my head towards the recliner. Edward was sitting there with his laptop on the floor. He was wearing sweatpants and a JHU t-shirt. He had no shoes on and his White socks were propped up in the recliner. He was gawking at me. I turned my attention back to Mike before I could blush and smiled at him.
Mike and Jasper offered us their arms which Alice and I gladly took. Mike helped me on with my coat and we headed out to the car. Jasper and Mike had hired a driver for the evening and he took us to a fancy restaurant in downtown Baltimore that overlooked the beautiful harbor.
After the hostess sat us at our table near the window Mike pulled out my chair for me and I smiled shyly at him. I had never been shy around him before but now it felt different. I was shy and blushing every time he looked at me and smiled. We were both very quiet, shy and he was obviously as nervous as I was if not more. Alice and Jasper did most of the talking until the waitress came and we placed our order. The conversation flowed freely as we waited for our shared starters to arrive.
The guys paid for dinner, and we all went for a walk down by the harbor. We stood watching some of the street dancers and Mike wrapped my hands in his. My mind kept creeping back to Edward and I wondered what would he be doing if it was him instead of Mike on this date. He would probably be trying to get me back up to his room. That isn't what I want. I smiled up at Mike as he tilted his head at me in a silent question of whether I wanted to continue walking.
"Come sit with me. I want to give you your Valentine's Day gift." He took my hand and led me out onto one of the docks and we sat on a bench.
"I know it's not much but I saw it and it made me think of you." He said looking down at his hands that were holding a small white box with a red ribbon. I opened the box carefully and took out the small keychain. It was too cute. It was a little brown eyed and brown haired stuffed doll wearing a little dress that looked like a bell. When you shook it, it rang like a bell. It was me.
He was looking out at the water avoiding my eyes fidgeting with his jacket hem. I could tell that I was going to have to make the first move.
"Thank you so much Mike I love it, it's so sweet." I said and then he turned to look me in the eye. My heart skipped a beat and could feel my cheeks burning. And I chickened out.
"Here's your gift. Happy Valentine's Day." I told him as I handed him his present.
He opened the card and read it with a huge smile before looking at me. I smiled back shyly looking away. Then he opened his gift bag.
"Thank you Bella I needed a new pair and it's my favorite beer." He seemed to like the gift. "Do you want to go for a walk or would you like to stay here for a while?"
"I wouldn't mind going to those big steps and watching the jugglers if that's alright." I replied
"Sure, let's go." He grabbed my hand and my heart jumped inside of my chest. He led me back to the steps where we had seen the jugglers.
He took off his coat and laid it down over the concrete steps and gestured for me to take a seat. He sat next to me and placed his arm around me on my shoulder. I leaned into his chest and watched the jugglers. After a while he brought his other arm up to entwine his fingers so I scooted closer to him resting my hands on his knee. I felt comfortable there. I felt his lips graze the top of my head and my body shuddered.
"There you guys are, we've been looking for you. Are you ready to go? Jasper's getting tired." Alice came skipping up the steps to sit next to me.
"Yeah, that's fine Alice. I'm getting a little tired myself." Mike helped me up and held my hand while I walked down the steps. We walked back to the car hand in hand. The ride home was quiet. Jasper and Alice were snuggled together under his coat. They looked so cute, but lord only knows what they were up to under there. I was snuggled up close to Mike with my arm entwined with his and still holding his hand.
When we got back to the house I had completely forgotten that we were staying the night. I immediately hoped Edward was going to behave himself. I noticed that his silver Volvo was not here and I relaxed. Jasper and Alice said their goodnights and both went inside.
"Do you want to sit on the swing with me for a little while?" I asked looking up into his eyes.
"Sure, that would be nice." I took his hand and led him over to the porch swing. We started talking about school, majors and trivial things to fill the silence. I wanted to keep talking because I didn't want him to go. After about an hour I heard a car pull up and I felt my perfect night slipping away.
"Well, it's getting kind of late and I should get back. Um. Bella I had a really wonderful time and I would love to see you again." Mikes hands were shaking and his lips were trembling. I was definitely going to have to make the first move.
I slowly brought my hand up to rest on his cheek and leaned in to press my lips to his. His lips were cold from being outside and it sent a chill down my spine. He reached his hand around my waist to pull me closer and I brought my other hand up to rest on his other cheek. He broke our kiss and looked into my eyes.
"Is that a yes then?" I nodded my head and gave him a shy smile before kissing him again. He took his other hand and ran it through my hair gently before breaking away and stepping back.
"Well goodnight then. I'll call you tomorrow if that's alright?" I nodded and turned to pick up my box with my gift and when I turned around he was down the steps walking backwards looking at me. I walked over to the steps and was waving goodbye to him when Edward came trudging up the steps with a case of beer under his arm. What a way to ruin a perfect night. He walked past me to open the door. Ignoring Edward I leant over the porch to watch Mike walk away but must have leant too far because I lost my balance. Suddenly a strong arm wrapped around my waist. The arm lifted me up in the air and carried me inside. It was Edward. My butt was pressed against his torso and his arm was tight around my waist.
"Put me down right now Edward." I shouted at him.
"Oh, so I should have just let you fall off of the porch? You could just thank me and get over it."
"Thank you." I muttered as I hung my jacket up and plopped onto the couch. I took out my gift from Mike and began to twist the keychain onto the keys from my purse.
"You want one?" He asked, offering me a beer as he settled on the couch next to me with his laptop and the remote.
"Yeah, I guess thanks. So how was your Valentine's Day?" I asked while opening the beer.
"It was fine. I got some work done, and now I'm going to download some stuff and watch the GF marathon."
"What's the GF marathon?"
"Godfather Trilogy."
"Oh, I love that movie. I prefer the second one because a young DeNiro is hot."
"Maybe you want to go upstairs and change before you get settled." I looked down and noticed that I was still in my dress. Was I really going to sit down here all night and watch the Godfather Trilogy with Edward? Yeah I guess I was. I was too excited after my wonderful date with Mike to even think about sleeping. I went upstairs and washed my makeup off, brushed my teeth and changed into my pajamas. I grabbed my blanket and pillow before heading back downstairs.
"Can you make some popcorn while I grab my pillow and blanket? It's gonna start in 10 minutes." He said darting up the stairs.
I went into the kitchen and made a large bowl of popcorn. When I got back into the living room Edward was sitting on the couch with his blanket wrapped around his legs and his laptop resting on his pillow on his lap. He was wearing glasses now. I settled in my spot at the other end of the couch and tucked my legs up under me and covered myself with my blanket. I set my pillow down between us and rested the popcorn on the table.
"So why the glasses?" I asked
"I lost my contacts and I can't get any more until Monday."
"Are your eyes green from the contacts or is it natural?" I asked. I was wondering if the beautiful green eyes were fake. It would be so much easier if they were.
He turned to face me and stared into my eyes. My breathing hitched in my throat as he leaned closer to me. I unconsciously leaned closer to him. We were only about a foot apart when he slowly too off his glasses.
"See, still green." He said very slowly. His breath rushed over my face and I couldn't breathe. His sweet smell intoxicated me and I slowly leaned back to escape his trance.
"Oh that's nice." I replied my head to watch the beginning of the movie.
We watched the movie in silence eating our popcorn and drinking the beer. I was still wide awake when the first movie ended so I settled further into the couch under my blanket, sipping my beer. I looked down to see he had cleared away the empty bowl of popcorn and the empty beer cans, but there were four new beers setting on the table waiting to be opened. I noticed he had one opened next to his laptop that was making this god awful beeping noise.
"Edward" I whispered no louder than the TV making sure not to wake anyone.
"Yes, Bella" he whispered leaning across from behind the couch to be closer to my ear. I jumped a little.
"You're laptop is making noise. Make it stop." I said. I could feel the beer warming me from the inside out. I was getting too hot so I flipped my blanket off and tossed it on the recliner behind me.
"What are you doing on there anyway?" I asked scooting closer to get a look. I didn't drink much but when I did I was extremely outgoing and nosey.
"I'm downloading some songs and a few movies. Why?"
"I was just asking. Do you have something to hide?" I smirked with beer induced confidence.
"I am not hiding anything. Here, do you want to see?" He asked pushing the laptop into my lap. I set my beer down on the table and wiggled back into the couch. I moved my finger over the touch pad and the screen brought up limewire and he had a bunch of stuff downloading.
"Do you mind if I fix a couple things because at this rate it's going to take three days for you to download all this?" I asked half expecting him to snatch it away.
"No, be my guest." He replied, gesturing for me to take over. I quickly clicked a few straightforward fixed and Edward peered over my shoulder, trying to follow what I was doing.
"Do you want me to show you how to do this?" I asked looking up at him.
"If you don't mind." He said, moving around the couch to sit next to me. I rested the laptop across both of our legs and he leaned in a little to look at the screen.
I showed him what websites I had gone to and where the icons were. He seemed really interested, so I passed the laptop back to him and started to sip my beer again. He was fiddling with it again while glancing at the movie now and then. I was engrossed in the movie while I drank my beers. After the second movie I went to use the bathroom and notices I was distinctly wobbly in my walk back to the couch. I made it back and sank into the sofa right next to him.
EPOV
We were out of beer now, and I couldn't believe we went through an entire 30 pack. I wasn't sure how many we had each drunk I just knew that they were all gone. Now I was drinking Emmett's nasty Natty Bo. I looked over at Bella - her eyes were glassy her cheeks were flushed with the effects of the alcohol. I could feel the heat from her body radiating on my skin as she sat down beside me.
She had started off the night at the other end of the couch but we kept moving closer together. We were now watching the third movie. I wasn't tired yet but my body was aching, so I stretched out my legs and rested them on the coffee table. She lifted up my blanket and pulled her body closer to mine. She brought up her little feet and tucked her cold toes under my thighs. I jumped a little at the shock.
"Hey those are cold." I said peering down at her. She pushed my arm up on the back of the couch and nuzzled her shoulder under my armpit. God, she was trying to kill me. I wasn't exactly interested in the movie anymore, apparently I couldn't concentrate with Bella so close. I pulled her legs up and over my lap and tucked the blanket in around them.
"Is that better?" I asked hoping she wouldn't think I was trying to make a pass at her.
"Uh huh." She said. She rested her hand on my chest and started playing with the wrinkles in my shirt.
"Hey Edward?"
"Yeah Bella"
"Thanks." She nuzzled closer to me and closed her eyes.
She wrapped her arms around my back and settled her head on my chest. I reached down and pulled the lever of the couch to pop up the footrest. I brought the blanket around to cover us and turned the TV off. I stroked her back as we fell asleep together.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------Spring Semester----------------------------------------------------------------
BPOV
April
Spring semester is drawing to a close and time has flown. Edward and I have become good friends. It's not like Jake and I, but we talk and hang out. We seem to have gotten past the awkward stage. Alice and I were closer than ever. We would go on double dates with Mike and Jasper and Mike and I were still going great. Emmett would give Mike a hard time when he picked me up some Sundays after dinner, and Rosalie just ignored him completely. Edward made small talk and was polite. I planned to invite him to a Sunday dinner soon so that they could get to know him.
Edward still had his women over, just not as often as before. They used to come every Sunday, and I was blissfully unaware of what went on there during the week. Mike and I haven't slept together. In fact we'd barely gotten past first base. I'm not sure what to do, and am nervous – that's definitely what's holding me back.
I tried to talk to Alice and Rosalie about it but it just felt like I was being a big baby. Rosalie's advice was to just jump him. Alice told me to talk to him about it. Those two options were just not happening. Emmett was out of the question - he would just make fun of me, and Jasper is shyer than I am. So that leaves Edward, Mr. Sex machine himself.
Edward and I every Sunday together. We hang out and talk about school and music. Sometimes we walk to the store together, other times we crash out on the sofa with a movie. But this Sunday the topic of conversation was going to be different. I am going to ask Edward to give me some pointers on how to give a blow job.
How on earth did I reach the conclusion that this was the best option?
I feel comfortable enough that he will at least give me some pointers - after he laughs his ass off of course.
"Bella, pass me the yellow highlighter would ya?" I heard Edward's voice from next to me on the sofa. It shook me out of my daze and I could feel my cheeks burning. Crap.
"Oh, sorry, here you go." We were scattered around the living room. Alice, Jasper, Edward and I. Mike was at work and it was the first Sunday where he would be joining us for our Sunday Dinner. Rosalie and Emmett were at the grocery store because it was their week to cook.
"I don't think that I can cram another piece of information into my brain. Who's up for some Madden?" Edward asked about 5 minutes later.
"Not me man. I have to get this down before tomorrow." Jasper replied.
"Don't look at me I don't understand that stupid game. I'll play animal crossing or the sims with you." Alice offered.
"No thanks," Edward responded "I think I'll just go up to my room and listen to some music for a while." Edward said as he gathered up his stuff, before twirling my hair in my face and smiling at me.
Alice, Jasper and I continued to study for about an hour. I looked at the time and it was now 2pm. Dinner wasn't until 7 and Mike didn't get off of work until 6. So that gave me a solid 4 hours to ask Edward for advice. I looked around the room for an excuse to go upstairs and talk to him. I saw it. He left his laptop down here.
I got up and grabbed his laptop and headed for the stairs.
"Bella can you ask Edward to make me a copy of the new Beck CD he just got?" Jasper asked when I was almost to the stairs.
"No problem" I replied as I slowly walked up the stairs. I could feel myself getting nervous. I couldn't believe I was about to do this.
I got to his door and knocked lightly and waited for him to answer. He opened the door not looking at me and walked back towards his bed where he obviously had been laying down on. I took a deep breath, swallowed and stepped into his room. I just handed him his laptop and he took it out of my hands and set it on the desk.
"What's got you so nervous?" He asked looking up at me from his spot on the bed. Shit did I look that nervous?
"Um-I wanted to ask you something." I replied looking down at my shoes and tugging at the hem on my shirt.
EPOV
She was standing in the middle of my room, staring at her feet and picking at her shirt hem. I hadn't seen Bella this nervous since Mike asked her to be his girlfriend about two months ago. On Valentine's Day when I saw what my sister did to her it shocked me. I had never seen someone so beautiful in my life. I was sitting on the recliner trying to get some work done while the three couples scattered about with their love plans. I couldn't wait for them all to just leave. But when I saw her come down those stairs my heart stopped. She had curves I never knew she had. I was stunned and let my laptop slide right out of my lap and onto the floor. When she looked at me with those gorgeous big brown eyes I lost my breath. Her cheeks turned bright red and she quickly turned her head back to her date.
The entire time she had been on her date I paced around the house nonstop I didn't get any work done. I couldn't stop thinking about her - where she was, what she was doing. I eventually decided to head out and get some beers. I didn't want to leave the house – what if he hurt her and she needed me? I had to get out and clear my head. They were back when I returned and I stomped up the stairs like an angry child. I was pissed at both of them and at myself. I was not ready for the feelings that I was having towards her. I was not ready for the emotions that were running through my mind and my heart.
I was a little shocked when she cuddled up to me and we fell asleep in each other's arms. But the next day all she did was talk about him. Mike this, Mike that. So I pushed my feelings aside and decided to be her friend. We got along well and I liked talking to her.
I had accepted their relationship. He made her happy. I just figured it wasn't meant to be with us. He was a decent enough guy and he treated her well. I was looking forward to meeting this guy Jake she talked about a lot. He sounded pretty cool, and Alice liked him a lot so he couldn't be that bad.
"What's got you so nervous?" I asked looking up at her from my spot on the bed.
"Um - I wanted to ask you something." She replied.
"Yeah." I waited, but she didn't look back at me, she just stood there. Suddenly she moved to my door, closing and locking it. That got my attention. What was she doing?
"Um-Jasper asked me to ask you if you could make a copy of the new Beck CD that you just got." She said. I didn't think that was the real question. I got up, turned the laptop on and sat down in my desk chair.
She just stood there leaning against the door looking at the floor. I put the CD in and set it up to copy. It would take about 30 minutes so I turned in my chair and crossed my arms over my chest. I looked up at this nervous, beautiful girl in my room. A lot of girls have been in this room, but not a single one has been this nervous.
"Is that all that you wanted or was there something else?" I asked.
Bella took a step closer towards me and I could now see a little of her face. Her cheeks were bright pink and she was biting her bottom lip. God this was worse than I thought. Did that creep do something to her? Oh God, please don't let this be about sex. They had been together for about 2 ½ months. Why would he still be around if she hadn't given it up?
She took a seat on my bed and began to pick at the little hole in her jeans on her knee. Her hair hung in front of her making a curtain around her face. I scooted my chair closer to her so that our knees were touching and I took her chin in my hands, lifting her face up to look at me.
"Bella what's wrong? I can see that you are either upset or nervous about something. Please tell me what it is. I may be able to help." I was pleading with her now.
Something changed in her eyes as I lifted her chin, and I noticed her face set in determination. "OK Edward, I sort of need your help with something. I have no idea who to ask, and well, given your history, I just thought ……" She trailed off and I prompted her with a raise of my eyebrows.
"IwanttogiveMikeablowjobbutIdon'tknowhow" the words flew from her mouth at an alarming rate, and I hesitated a moment to make sure I had heard properly.
FUCK
"Huh?" was my inspired response. I knew I needed to say more though. "Have you tried speaking to Alice about this?" Please let her think that is a good idea
"Yes I already talked to Alice and Rosalie and they weren't much help. I want to know what feels good." She was glaring at me now, her eyes narrowed.
I put my hands up defensively and backed away from her.
"OK, calm down. Now what do you want to know?" I could do this.
"Don't make me say it again Edward." She replied through gritted teeth.
"Well have you ever had a popsicle?" She was hanging on my every word. Fuck. I can't believe I'm sitting here telling her how to give her boyfriend a blow job.
"When are you planning on doing this?" I asked.
"As soon as I figure out what I'm doing. I don't want to make a fool out of myself. What if I'm bad and he doesn't like it?" She was way over thinking this.
"Bella, he's a guy, and it's a blow job. He's going to like whatever you do. You just need to relax." I wasn't sure if I really wanted her to go through with it or not.
"I'm just scared and nervous." I put my arm around her shoulder and gave it a squeeze to reassure her. She slipped her arm around my waist and buried her face in my chest.
I didn't like to see her upset but I hoped to God she was going to back out and change her mind. It suddenly hit me that if she was this freaked out about a blow job with him then they must not have had sex yet.
"Bella have you guys had sex yet?" for some reason I just had to know.
"Nope." She looked up into my eyes, and I tightened our embrace.
I felt her shift in my arms and she met my gaze again but something felt different. I responded to her gaze, my eyes no doubt filled with the desire I felt for her. She reached up, and closed the gap between us, her lips seeking out mine.
I knew this was wrong, but I couldn't stop it. I had wanted Bella for so long. I wasn't in love with her, she was just one of the few women who had resisted my charms. I pulled away to check that she was OK with this before pulling her to me again and kissing her enthusiastically.
I grazed my tongue across her lower lip, asking for entry which she eagerly granted. I lost myself in her warm taste and smell. I marveled at how perfectly we fit together, as my hands roamed her body.
I gasped as her hand ghosted across my chest and stomach, tracing the ridges of bone and muscle. She pushed me backwards onto the bed and I broke away from her in surprise. This wasn't what I was expecting, and I looked to check whether this was what she wanted.
Her next move forced all of the air from my lungs, as she reached for the waistband of my jeans. Her eyebrow was raised mischievously and desire glowed in her eyes. Her face was flushed and her lips swollen from my kisses.
In a rare display of conscience, I reached my hand out to cover hers, and looked into her eyes questioningly. She simply reached up to my ear and whispered "trust me", her hot breath caressing my neck. Those words were my undoing as I immediately grew harder. This was a side to Bella that I never even knew existed. I definitely liked it.
She reached for my waistband again and I leant in to kiss her. She pushed the clothing from my lower body with her feet before pulling me close to her again. Before I knew what was happening she had flipped us over and her warm mouth was on my dick as she licked and sucked it gently. One of her hands was clutched around the part of me that she couldn't fit into her mouth, whilst the other massaged my balls. It was the best feeling in the world. I couldn't move. I tried to speak but the words were lost. I knew this was definitely wrong but it felt so right.
The next thing I knew I reached my orgasm deep in her throat and I felt her gulping and swallowing my cum. I had fantasized about this moment for so long, there was no way I was going to last
I was immediately overcome with guilt. I can't believe we let this go so far. It seemed like she had wanted it, but I had definitely just gone along with it.
Suddenly the guilt was gone, along with all other thoughts. I wanted to taste her. I wanted to show her how amazing that felt. She pulled away from me after sucking hard and twirling her tongue around the head of my dick. She licked her lips as she sat up on the bed. We were staring at each other again. Her eyes were burning, filled with lust and hunger. I needed her right there. I needed to taste her. I pulled my boxers and pants up, before pushing her back on the bed and unbuttoning her jeans. Our eyes were still locked together.
"What are you doing?" she asked through deep breaths.
"I want to taste you." I replied, my heavy breathing matching hers.
She tried to wriggle away from my grasp "Just tell me if I did it right."
"Bella, what you just did defies words. I want you to feel what you should get in return."
She propped herself up on her elbows and looked down into my eyes as I tugged down her jeans and panties, tossing them to the floor. She slowly leaned back and I lifted her legs over my shoulders as I knelt on the floor. I pulled her ass to the edge of the bed, and looked up at her body. She was so exposed to me, and so breathtakingly beautiful. I noticed that Bella took her personal grooming very seriously. Her smooth hairless lips glistened with her arousal. I leaned forward and licked the entire length of her. The taste was amazing, so sweet and warm.
My tongue reached for her bundle of nerves and I felt her thighs tighten around my head. Her hips lifted to meet my tongue, as I pushed it inside her, wanting to taste every inch of her. She moaned and panted as I slid first one finger inside of her, and then two. She was so tight and warm. I could only imagine how my cock would feel inside of her. I felt myself grow hard just at the thought. My tongue continued to work on her clit as I felt her hips buck up to my fingers.
I felt her walls clench around my fingers as her fingers tangled in my hair. She let out a muffled moan as she came, pushing her body harder into mine. As her orgasm slowed I slipped my fingers from her, returning for one last taste before climbing onto the bed and pressing a kiss to her lips.
She slowly opened her eyes and her cheeks flushed. I stared into her eyes and brought my fingers to my mouth. I sucked all of her juices off of my fingers and licked my lips.
Suddenly she stood up and put her panties and jeans back on. Standing up myself, I looked at her and her beautiful eyes were glazed. I slowly stepped forward and cupped her face in my palms.
I leaned down and took her bottom lip in between mine and sucked gently. She brought her hands up around my neck and parted her lips. Our kiss became deeper as she pulled me down further. Our kiss became more urgent and lustful as I grabbed her ass cheeks and pressed her into me. I cupped under her butt and lifted her closer to my body. She immediately wrapped her legs around my waist. I turned and pressed her back against the door of my room.
I kissed slowly down her neck and across her collarbone and up the other side. She ran her hands through my hair pulling me closer to her. I moaned against her neck as I kissed behind her ear. I pulled back to look in her eyes but they were closed. I placed a peck on her eye lid and they flew open. She looked into my eyes and unwrapped her legs. I slowly set her back down on the floor and took a couple of steps back. We were both panting and gasping for air.
I ran my hands through my hair breaking our locked gaze. I heard the doorknob turn and I snapped my eyes up from the floor, but she was gone.
Fuck.
What just happened? What did I just do? I frantically looked around my room for a sign that maybe it was a dream and that this didn't just happen. I punched the door as hard as I could and pressed my forehead to it. I was so pissed at myself for letting this happen.
I grabbed her shoes and stepped into the hallway. It was empty. All the doors were closed, so I knocked softly on her bedroom door but there was no answer. I turned the knob and peeked my head in to find an empty room. I slowly made my way down the stairs and saw Emmett in the hallway. I quickly put my hands behind my back to hide her shoes.
"Hey Edward, Mike just got here and is looking for Bella. You know where she is?" He was smirking at me – did he know?
"No, I didn't see her when I came out of my room." At least it wasn't a complete lie.
Just as I was about to slowly walk back up the stairs the shoes were yanked from my hand and I saw Bella slip past me. She was across the living room and out the front door before I could even turn my head. I saw Mike get up from the couch next to Jasper and head for the door.
What the fuck was she going to tell him? I really didn't feel like getting into a fight right now. I slowly walked over to the window to peek outside to see if I could see what was going on. They were on the porch swing and she had her knee up against her chest as she slid her shoes on. He was talking to her and he looked happy. She looked sad while she looked up at him. She got up and took his hand and led him down the steps.
BPOV
I couldn't believe what I had just done. It was the most erotic and sensual feeling I have ever felt. The kiss was amazing. I could taste myself on his lips and his tongue. The way his tongue massaged mine and the way his lips were so soft. My heart was racing and jumping out of my chest. It was like kissing Mike but times a million. I could hardly breathe. And then when our eyes were locked together it was like there was electricity jolting back and forth between us.
But now I was here on the steps of the house and I was looking up at Mike's happy face. He was so excited to be at Sunday dinner and I felt horrible. I had wanted to share those moments with him, but now I had ruined that. I was a horrible girlfriend. Mike had never been anything but sweet and kind to me, but I knew he wanted more. Lately he had been more urgent with his kisses and his hands had roamed and groped a little roughly.
"Mike I need to tell you something." I looked down at my shaking hands. I just knew that this was going to be the end of my perfect new relationship.
"What's wrong babe? What happened?" He asked sounding concerned.
"I did something horrible. I know you're going to hate me, but I have to tell you the truth." I was crying now. I could feel the tears running down my cheeks.
"Bella don't cry. I hate to see you cry. It's OK, don't worry. Whatever it is it'll be ok" He was rubbing my back and trying to comfort me when I didn't deserve it.
"I cheated on you." I blurted it out and buried my face in my hands and just sobbed and sobbed.
"What? When? With who?" He was asking questions and backing away from me. I slowly looked up at him but I couldn't see him clearly through the tears pouring from my eyes.
EPOV
I was watching her cry on the steps and I felt like an ass. He slowly backed away from her, but I couldn't hear what they were saying. He looked shocked and hurt. Then I heard him shout at her. I knew she didn't deserve that, so I went outside stood between them.
"Tell me who it was Bella!" he raged at her.
"Don't fucking yell at her like that Mike." I responded to him.
"Mind your own business Cullen this doesn't concern you." He yelled back at me, pain and anger written across his face.
"Edward, please just go inside." She sobbed and stood between Mike and I.
"No Bella, I'm not leaving you out here whilst he is acting like this." I told her, wrapping her in my arms.
She wiggled her way out of my embrace leading Mike over to his car. They were talking again now and I couldn't hear exactly what they were saying. His head shot up and he glared at me. Bella pushed her hands against his chest to hold him back, whilst I stood there waiting for him to come at me. I had my fist clenched waiting to swing back at him. I wouldn't throw the first punch though, unless he hurt her.
He stepped away from her as she sobbed, clinging to his hand. He pulled it away and walked back and forth between his car and hers mumbling something to her that I couldn't hear. He snapped his head back up and glared at her as she told him something else. I saw his fist clench and he reached back and punched his car. The sound of the shattered glass scared Bella and she jumped back and fell on the ground. His hand was bleeding and he glared over at me. I saw him walk towards her and I jolted over to her. But he got there first.
He reached down to help her up, then pulled her into his arms. She had her arms around him and both of them were sobbing. I felt like I was intruding on something, and had no idea what was going on.
They pulled away from each other and stared into each other's eyes. I was unable to tear my eyes away from them as he leant down to kiss her, and her arms wrapped around his neck as they held one another in a passionate embrace.
What the hell just happened?