Ex's and Parents
I looked over Edward's shoulder to see who he was talking to. Standing in the living room of his apartment was a woman. She was not just any woman, but a beautiful woman. Her strawberry blonde hair waved gracefully down to the middle of her back. Her plump red lips were molded into a small "o". She had golden, butterscotch colored eyes that were wide as she took in the scene before her. Thats when I realized our position. My legs we still wrapped around Edward's waist, his hands still supporting me by my butt. Edward was still unmoving under me, his eyes wide and staring at the woman with shock.
"Edward," the woman sighed in a voice like wind chimes.
"What are you doing here?" he asked with malice once he gained his composure. I tried to get down from Edward, but he held me tighter as I tried to untangle. He clearly wasn't as uncomfortable with our position together as I was. The woman took a step towards us holding out her hand as if to touch Edward. He took a step back as she came closer.
"I came to see you. It's been a while," she said looking at him, but her eyes flickered towards me. "And who is this lovely lady?" she asked sneering. Edward's grip around me tightened as he took in the tone of her voice.
"Tanya, this is my girlfriend Bella, Bella this is my family friend Tanya," he said nodding his head towards Tanya with wary eyes.
"Girlfriend?" Tanya asked incredulously. "Well, it looks like my little Eddie here has found a new toy," she said glaring in my direction. I cringed further into Edward at her stare. This woman could give Rosalie a run for her money in the looks department.
"What do you want from me Tanya?" Edward asked, bluntly getting to the point. She laughed lightly and took another step towards us. Edward took another back, but was unable to move any further as he backed into the door. Tanya changed her stare from me, and onto Edward.
"Well, I was coming to visit an old 'friend' and see how he was. Last time I saw him, we didn't necessarily part on good terms," she said, touching Edward's arm lightly. He flinched at the touch and glared at her.
"It's hard to part on good terms when you find your girlfriend in her apartment with another man," he replied viciously. Girlfriend? So thats why Edward was so uncomfortable. This was his ex-girlfriend. Family friend my ass.
She laughed, but not as lightly as before. Her eyes grew darker when Edward brought up the past.
"That's why I'm here. I think we should talk," she said looking at him intently. His muscles tensed once more. I looked up at him, questioning him with my eyes if he wanted me to leave. He looked at me and then looked up at Tanya once again.
"Tanya, I'm not so sure thats a very good idea," he said dubiously. Fire flashed through her eyes as she looked over and me and gestured towards me with her head.
"What? You little girlfriend over here is worried about competition?" she laughed.
"No Edward, it's fine. Talk to her and call me in the morning," I said, refusing to acknowledge the wicked witch of the west over there. I leaned up and whispered into his ear. "I trust you," I said. Edward looked at me, trying to see if I was lying or not but nodded his head.
"I'll call you if Tanya leaves before eleven, but if not, I'll call you in the morning," he said. He released me from his holds and placed me on my feet. I turned towards the door to leave, but he caught me by the waist and spun me around. His lips crashed into mine passionately and his arms wrapped around me. I threw my arms around his neck and grabbed his hair. We parted after hearing Tanya snort in disgust and he gave my waist one last squeeze.
"I love you," he said looking into my eyes. He was trying to tell me that I was the only one without words. I looked back up at him, trying to tell him that I knew.
"I love you too, I'll see you tomorrow," I replied. I pecked him one last time on the lips and opened the door. I looked back and saw Edward wave. I smiled and waved back at him. Before the door shut I heard one last thing.
"I've missed you Eddie," Tanya purred as the door of the elevator shut. That was an awful last thing to hear when you are leaving your new boyfriend with his ex-girlfriend who desperately wants said boyfriend back. Not a great way to boost the self-esteem. I sighed loudly as I realized that I had no car. Alice was out with Emmett and Rose so I couldn't call her, and Edward was busy with Tanya. I couldn't walk seeing as it was now 9:45 at night. Who knows what's out there at nighttime. Now what?
I turned from my blank staring at the glass doors to see a young man in a uniform standing behind me. He had dark, russet skin and shiny black shoulder length hair that was pulled back into a ponytail. He was good looking, nothing compared to Edward but still, and looked to be a few years younger than me. He was smiling at me for some unknown reason. I looked down, making sure I hadn't left something important like shoes and that I looked alright. Hopefully he couldn't tell that I was just having a hot and heavy make out session with my boyfriend in the elevator. He laughed at my obvious confusion and gestured down towards his uniform. Oh! He was the doorman! Maybe he could help me find a way home. I smiled at him with realization, and he laughed louder at my obvious epiphany.
"Can I help you ma'am?" he asked politely. I nodded my head and sighed.
"I was wondering if you knew some way that I could get home without walking. My car is totaled, my boyfriend is busy, and my roommate is out," I explained. He laughed loudly.
"Ever thought of a cab?" asked me with raised eyebrows. I slapped my forehead with my head with a resounding smack.
"How did I not think of that?" I asked him rhetorically. He laughed and shrugged his shoulders.
"I'll call you one," he replied as he turned back towards the desk and picked up the phone. After a quick call, he returned to me.
"There should be one here any minute," he said once he had reached me.
"Thanks," I responded, "I'm Bella," I said, sticking my hand out for him to shake.
"Jacob but my friends call me Jake," was his reply as he took my hand. His hand was enormous, completely engulfing my small one. They were warm and rough, like tanned leather.
"So, how is it exactly that you got stuck without a ride," he asked conversationally as we waited for my cab to arrive. I sighed shaking my head.
"I've got time," he responded with a smile. I laughed at his enthusiasm and began my tale. I told him about all about the crash and all the way to the encounter with Tanya in Edward's apartment. He listened intently and laughed and shook his head in understanding at the necessary parts.
"Well, sounds like that woman's got some sort of delusion thinking that she could walk back into his life and expect him to take her back," Jacob said once I finished my story. I laughed and nodded glumly as my thoughts went up to Edward and Tanya in the apartment together. I trusted Edward not to do anything, but it was Tanya that I was worried about. She was gorgeous, blonde, modelesque, and clearly wanted Edward. I was going to lose him just as I got him.
"Don't worry about her. I saw her walk in earlier and she has nothing on you," Jacob said as if reading my thoughts. I smiled at him gratefully just as my cab pulled up. He helped me up and opened the door helping me in.
"Thanks for listening Jake," I said through the window. He smiled and waved his hand as if it was nothing.
"Anytime Bella. See ya around!" he said as he tapped the top of the cab, telling the driver it was alright to take off. I waved until I couldn't see Jake anymore.
The entire cab ride home I spent thinking about my conversation with Jacob. Was he right? Was I really better than Tanya? She may not be the nicest person, but she definitely surpassed me in the looks department. Edward probably forgot about me as soon as I stepped out of the door. Anyone would be entranced by her beauty. Tears began to well up in my eyes as I got closer to the apartment. I was almost positive that I would get a call tomorrow from Edward telling me we were over.
The ride had taken longer than I thought it would seeing as we got stuck in bumper to bumper traffic. I paid the cab driver silently and stepped out of the cab. I took the stairs up to the apartment, clearly not ready to face Alice's questions. I stalled as long as I could as I walked up to our apartment on the sixth floor. I grabbed my keys out of my purse and put them in the lock. Before I could even turn them, the door swung open to reveal a frantic Alice with a phone glued to her ear.
"Oh thank god! She just walked in. I'll call you back," she rushed out before hitting the end button, not even waiting for a response from the other person on the phone. Before I could ask any questions, Alice had flung herself at me and wrapped her tiny arms and legs around me, seeming afraid to let go.
"What's going on Alice?" I asked concerned. She let go and looked up and me angrily.
"What's going on Alice? Are you kidding me? I have been frantically trying to call you and text you for the past hour and a half! Edward called a few minutes after you left his apartment telling me that you were on your way! He called back ten minutes later telling me he forgot that you didn't have a car, but when he ran down to the lobby you weren't there! We were so worried! We thought that you being you, was stubborn enough to walk all the way here!" she yelled at me.
"Alice I took a cab and we got stuck in traffic," I replied trying to calm the storm that was Alice down.
"You could have called! Edward has been freaking out for the past forty-five minutes! He even walked around for a couple of block looking for you!" she cried. I was completely confused. Edward was supposed to be talking with Tanya this whole time, but instead he was out looking for me.
"Edward went looking for me? What about Tanya?" I asked. Alice rolled her eyes and huffed.
"Tanya shmanya! You're his girlfriend! He cares more about you than he does that soul sucking witch! He left his apartment as soon as we found out that we couldn't reach you and just left Tanya there without a word!" she exclaimed frustrated. I smiled at the thought. Edward cared more about me than he did Tanya. He ignored Tanya because he was worried about me. I internally laughed at my silly doubts that I had been muddling over in the car. Edward loved me, not Tanya.
"I'm so sorry Ali. I forgot to charge my phone last night and it must have died. I didn't mean to scare you," I said hugging her tightly. She huffed angrily but smiled wickedly.
"Your forgiven, but you better tell me all about today! You, as of a few hours ago, are no longer single!" she cried out, throwing her arms up and into the air to emphasize her point. She pulled me into the living room, plopping me down on the sofa.
"Okay tell me everything!" she exclaimed. I cringed into the sofa cushions.
"But Alice..." I was interrupted by a wild banging on the door. Alice and I looked at each other questioningly but shrugged. Alice picked up a magazine and started flipping through it, leaving me to answer the door. I got up off of the couch and scurried towards the door where our visitor was still banging loudly.
"I'm coming!" I yelled out. I swung the door open completely surprised to see a distressed Edward standing at my door.
"Edward?" I asked puzzled. Instead of responding he swung me up bridal style and hugged me tightly. He began to place feather light kisses all over my face. I laughed at him and pushed his face away. He pouted at the loss of contact, but quickly gave me a very stern and cross look.
"Isabella Swan! Do you have any idea how worried I was about you! You scared me to death! You should have called me when you realized that you didn't have a ride! I would have come down to take you without question!" he exclaimed, his face livid.
"Edward, Jacob called me a cab," I told him. He looked at me perplexed.
"Jacob?" he asked questioningly.
"Yes Jacob, your doorman!" I exclaimed, "you don't even know your own doorman's name?"
"Oh you mean Jake?!" Edward clarified. I nodded my head, rolling my eyes at him.
"Still Bella, you should have called me or at least picked up your phone! I was worried sick about you!" Edward said.
"I'm sorry Edward. My phone died and I was on my way home safely anyways. I'm sorry I made you anxious," I said, looking like a scolded puppy. He sighed and kissed my forehead.
"It's alright love, just be more careful next time," he said. I nodded my head and he put me back down onto my feet. I looked over his shoulder, expecting to find Tanya behind him with an annoyed look on her face, but was met with the empty hallway.
"Where's Tanya?" I asked him.
"Back at the apartment," he replied. "She doesn't have a hotel room so I offered my guest room to her." I looked up at him, trying to see if he was joking.
"You're not serious are you?" I asked him. He nodded his head at me.
"Don't worry love. She promised that it was just for the night and that there would be no funny business," he said as he kissed my lips lightly to prove his point. I sighed and rested my head on his chest. Great, now the seductress is staying in his apartment with him. Just peachy.
"When do you have to go back?" I asked forlornly. He looked down sadly.
"I guess I should get going. I have an early shift at the hospital tomorrow," he replied gloomily.
"Call me in the morning when you have I break?" I asked him hopefully. He nodded his head feverishly. He must be just as unhappy about him going back to Tanya as I was.
"Goodnight Bella. I love you," he said as he kissed me desperately. I kissed him back but pulled away, knowing that he had to get up early in the morning.
"I love you too," I replied. He kissed me one last time before leaving, closing the door behind himself.
I turned and walked back down the hallway to the living room, only to find it empty. I walked down towards Alice's bedroom to see her passed out, fully clothed on top of her covers. I chuckled and took Alice's cashmere throw from the end of her bed. I placed it over her gently and kissed her forehead. She mumbled something and turned over. I walked down the hallway and got ready for bed quickly. My weekend had been the best weekend of my life. I could only hope that they would continue to get better and better with Edward by my side.
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My alarm clock went off at seven, effectively waking me up from a wonderful dream. Edward was staring in it of course, and we were at a park. I looked over to the slide to see two small children around the age of two. The little boy had bronze messy hair and deep brown eyes. The little girl had bronze way hair and brilliant green eyes. Edward was holding my hand while staring lovingly at the two children. They ran over to us, screaming the entire way. Most would cringe at the screaming children, but my heart soared. They were calling me mommy, and Edward daddy. I laughed as the little girl jumped straight to Edward, clearly a daddy's girl. I looked down to see the precious boy holding his arms out to me and smiling his father's crooked smile. My little momma's boy.
The dream ended there as my alarm went off. I hit it roughly with my eyes still closed and sighed. If only that dream would come true. I rolled over and grunted as the covers came off and the cold air it. I moaned, but got out of bed seeing knowing that I needed to actually get to work this time without causing an accident.
I went into the shower knowing that when I got out, Alice will have already set out an outfit for me to wear to work on the end of my bed. It payed off having a boutique owner as a best friend and roommate. I never had to worry about what to wear. It was already done for me. Even if I tried to pick out my own clothes, Alice wouldn't allow me to leave the house. I finished my shower and dried myself off quickly. I brushed through my hair and quickly blow dried it with my head upside down to give it volume. Alice had showed me this trick when I got my job and never had time to sit and do my hair before work. I flipped back over and looked in the mirror. My hair was bouncy and had perfect volume. I threw on some mascara and blush and opened the door.
Just as I had predicted, sitting there faithfully at the end of my bed was an outfit. I walked over to it and gasped. Alice could not possibly expect me to wear this! I didn't have the body for it whatsoever. She had picked out a black, form fitting Ralph Lauren dress that was made out of thin, chiffon layers. There was a black boyfriend blazer to go over it. She paired the dress with pink Christian Louboutin pointed toe pumps, gold bangles, and gold flower earrings. The outfit was absolutely gorgeous, but I could never in a million years, pull it off. Someone with a super model body like Rosalie, sure, but not me. Alice had already put my black Mulberry briefcase, that she got me when I got my job, by my outfit along with a note. (A.N.- Clothes on profile!)
I had to go into work early. I know exactly what you are thinking. The outfit will look great on you, you have the perfect body to fill it out. Trust me. Put it on and don't leave anything out. I will know if you did. I am out with a client today, so call me only for emergencies. You'll look gorgeous. Go knock those publishers off their socks! See you tonight. Love you!
-Alice
That girl always knew exactly what I was thinking. We used to joke around when we were kids that she was psychic. Sometimes I wonder if she really is. I sighed, knowing that Alice would check to make sure I was wearing the entire ensemble no matter the cost. I might as well just wear it. Alice always knows best where fashion is concerned.
I pulled on the dress and the accessories before placing my laptop into my briefcase and grabbing my shoes. These weren't nearly as bad as some of the shoes I had been subjected to in the past. I grabbed my blackberry and keys as I walked out the door. I got down to the street and walked straight out to the curb, looking for a taxi. I lifted my arm in the air, and one immediately zoomed straight up to me. I got in, gave the cabbie the address and sat back as I turned my phone on. I already had two texts. One from Alice and one from Edward. I opened Edward's first.
Good morning beautiful. I
just got up and am headed to the hospital.
I'll call you when I have a break.
Love you- E
I smiled hugely at his thoughtfulness. Edward always knew how to make my heart melt. I opened Alice's and immediately began laughing.
Good girl.
I knew you would listen to me.
I won't be home for dinner.
Jasper's taking me out.
Make sure to look where you're walking
in those pumps! xoxo- A
Of course Alice would already know that I listened to her note and am wearing the outfit. I must admit that it did look good, but certainly not amazing. Tanya or Rosalie would look amazing in this, but not me. The cabbie announced that we were at my office and I paid him quickly and got out. I was right on time as I took the elevator up to the 30th floor and got out.
No matter how long I worked here, I would never get used to the luxurious office. The receptionist's desk was sleek and modern, made out a a beautiful hand blown glass. The entire office was silver, blue, and brown. It was warm and inviting, while still being professional and corporate. I am still befuddled at how I ended up getting this job.
I started out here as a measly office girl, and now I had my own corner office and very own column in the newspaper. It was only the advice column, but having your very own column at a newspaper as big as the Seattle Times is a big job. My secretary was already typing away on her computer at her desk. Angela was given my job as the office girl once I was promoted, but she did so well that she was appointed my assistant.
She was perfect for me. She was organized, precise, and best of all, we got along great. She was an amazing girl. She had just graduated from University of California, Berkeley when she met the love of her life, and now husband Ben. He went to University of Washington in Seattle just like I did and had graduated a year before me. They were absolutely perfect for each other. They were both quiet and shy, but the kindest people I had ever met. They got married at a small bed a breakfast a few months ago with only family and close friends. They were still in that blissful honeymoon stage and she was glowing.
"Morning Ange!" I called to her as I walked into my office. She followed behind me and sat on one of the sleek blue chairs in front of my desk.
"Morning Bella. How are you? I heard you got in a terrible accident on your way to work on Friday!" she said. I smiled at her concern for me and nodded.
"Yeah, I did. I was running late for work and rushing. I hit a silver volvo head on, but luckily nobody got seriously injured. Well except for my wrist which I hurt after the accident, but other than the everything was fine." I responded. "How was your weekend?" I asked her.
She smiled at me knowingly and responded with a quiet fine. She just looked at me with a slight smile on her face until I couldn't take it anymore.
"What?" I asked annoyed.
"Who is he?" she asked as her response to my question. I looked at her confused. How did she know?
"I have no idea what your talking about," I replied, looking anywhere but her.
"Oh please Bella, you haven't stopped smiling since you walked into the building," she said looking at me with a smile. I smiled and laughed. I hadn't known it was that obvious. She looked at me expectantly and I couldn't keep it in any longer. I told her about everything that had happened since Friday and all about how amazing Edward was. Her smile only grew bigger throughout my story.
"Congratulations Bella! Thats great! You needed someone in your life, and I'm so glad you found what sounds like a great guy!" she cried out and jumped up and hugged me over my desk. I laughed thanking her, and then sent her out to her desk to do some work.
I opened up my laptop and got to the work that I was supposed to do Friday. I worked for hours without stopping until my office phone ran. I looked over at the phone and realized how late it had gotten. It was already 4:30. I had been so consumed in my work I hadn't even realized the time. I pressed the intercom button to see what Angela needed.
"Yes Ange?" I asked her.
"Sorry to bother you, but you have a visitor," she replied nervously. That's strange. The only person who ever came to my office to visit me was Alice and she was working late tonight as well as going out to dinner with Jasper.
"I'll be right there," I responded before standing up. I smoothed out the wrinkles on my dress and fixed my hair in the mirror that hung on my wall. I strutted over to the door and opened it to see the last person I was expecting. There, leaning up against Angela's desk was the one and only Tanya. She stood there in jeans and a low cut top smiling over at me. I looked over at Angela but she shrugged her shoulders and looked back towards the intimidating Tanya.
"Tanya what are you doing here?" I asked her nervously. What in the world would Tanya want to do with me? She laughed lightly and gave me a once over, stopping briefly at my shoes. She seemed impressed by my taste in shoes as looked up at me silently saying 'nice shoes'. I was confused. Where was the Tanya from last night who tried unashamedly to seduce my boyfriend right in front of me?
"Bella. Look, I saw what Edward did for you last night. You may think of me as some spiteful bitch, but that's not who I am. I am truly in love with Ethan, the man I cheated on Edward with, but I was just too afraid to hurt Edward by breaking up with him. If I had known how much more hurt it caused him when he found out the way he did than he would have had if I told him, I would have never lied to him for that long. I never intentionally meant to cause Edward pain. At one point in time, I did love him, I just slowly fell out of love with him. The only reason that I showed up at his apartment last night was because Ethan kicked me out of the house after we had some stupid fight over nothing. I had nowhere to go, and the first person I thought of who would be kind enough to let me stay with them that night was Edward. I wasn't expecting you to be there with Edward when he got home, and I wasn't thinking straight. I had been at a bar earlier that night and was slightly intoxicated, and I couldn't control myself. I know that none of this excuses my behavior, but I truly am sorry." said finished, looking down embarrassed.
I was speechless. This was not was I was expecting when I saw Tanya standing outside my office. I was ready for her to attack me. Tanya looked back up at me, her eyes welling up with genuine tears. I smiled at her and opened my arms for a hug. She looked shocked for a moment, but became ecstatic at my response. She hugged me tightly and I could feel her begin to shake with silent sobs. She truly did feel bad for hurting him. I rubbed her back soothingly and tried to comfort her.
"Tanya, it's alright. I forgive you, and I'm sure if you tell Edward exactly what you just told me, he would understand. I can tell how sincerely sorry you are and how guilty you feel. I want to let you know that even if Edward can't forgive you, I completely understand. You can always come talk to me if you need to," I said trying to soothe her. She couldn't hold her sobs in any longer and she burst out crying.
"Thank you Bella. You have no idea how much that means to me. Edward is a lucky man to have you," she said, her words muffled by my shoulder. I nodded and rubbed her back trying to calm her down.
I heard footsteps coming quickly towards us and looked up to see Edward storming straight for us. I tried to tell him that it was alright but he didn't see me. He was focusing on a still sobbing Tanya who was squeezing me tightly.
"What the hell Tanya?! I thought I told you to stay away from her!" he yelled. That just sent Tanya off into louder sobs.
"Edward!" I cried, astonished at his rude behavior. He looked over at me, completely confused as to why I was defending Tanya.
"Bella, why are you defending her? She's the one who tried to break us apart!" he cried. Tanya clutched onto me tighter and I tried to calm her now hysterics down.
"Edward, Tanya came here to apologize to me. She told me everything, and I believe she is truly sorry for everything that she did," I said patting Tanya who was now hiccuping.
"What?" Edward asked, completely bewildered at the turn of events. He saw Tanya hanging off of me and immediately went into protective boyfriend mode. Now, he was trying to figure out what the heck was going on. Tanya lifted her head off of my shoulder and turned to face Edward. I kept one arm wrapped around her shoulder, still rubbing her arm soothingly for support.
"It's true Edward. I came here to apologize to Bella about my behavior towards her and towards you. I never meant to hurt you Edward. I just fell out of love with you, and then I met Ethan. He's my soulmate. You have to understand that the only reason I strung you along for so long was because I didn't want to hurt you. I had no idea that you finding out the way that you did would hurt even more. The only reason I came to you last night was because Ethan and I got in a small argument and he told me to leave. We both needed time to cool off, and you were the first person I thought of who I knew that wasn't one of Ethan's friends. The only reason I came onto you was because I was drunk. I never intended to try and get you back or to hurt your girlfriend in the process. You don't have to forgive me, but I just needed to clear the air with you. Ethan and I belong together. Just think! You and Bella would never be together if it weren't for us breaking up. She is your other half Edward. I can see it already. This was all fate Edward. Fate is the one who brought us to today and the way we are meant to be," she said, growing stronger and stronger throughout her speech.
Edward's hard face softened slowly as she told him what she felt. I could feel the grudge and the hatred that he held for her melting away. She looked uncomfortable at his silence, but held her ground. I looked over at her and smiled encouragingly. It took a lot of guts to do what she just did, and for that I was proud of her. It's strange to think yesterday, I was crying over how I thought she would be the end of my relationship with Edward, and now I could feel her bringing us closer together. The loss that Edward had experienced with Tanya was going to be the thing that always was going to hold him back, but now that he understood, there was nothing from keeping him from living his life and loving throughout it.
Edward smiled softly at Tanya and walked over towards us. He kissed her lightly on the cheek and gave her a quick squeeze.
"Thank you Tanya. I needed to know that. I understand it all now, and honestly, I'm grateful for it. If we hadn't split up, I never would have met my other half Bella. I forgive you Tanya," he said. I smiled at his words. I was his other half. Nothing could make me happier than that.
Tanya smiled brightly and started crying again. This time, they weren't tears of sadness, but tears of joy.
"Thank you Edward, thank you," she replied overcome with relief. After she gained her composure, she look over at me. "Thank you for everything Bella. I won't be bothering you two anymore. Now that everything has been said, I can finally live my life again," she said. With that, she turned around and walked out.
I turned towards Edward and threw my arms around his neck and gave him a quick peck on the cheeks. I blushed, remembering that Angela was sitting at her desk right in front of us, but when I turned towards her desk, she was gone. She must have slipped out sometime during Tanya's speech to me to give us some privacy.
"That right there was one of the strangest experiences of my life," Edward said. I laughed loudly and agreed.
"So Dr. Cullen," I said, pulling on the scrubs that he still wore, "to what do I owe the pleasure of this unexpected visit to?" He chuckled and kissed my cheek lightly.
"Well, I promised that I would call sometime today, and I wondered, what would be better than a call. I got off of my shift and came straight here to take my beautiful girlfriend out for dinner. We had a slight detour, but I still think we can make it to the reservations that I made on my way over here," he explained.
I giggled happily and gave him a peck on the lips before running into my office to grab my briefcase and blazer. I came back out to find Edward leaning up against a cubicle.
"Hmm...I quite like the whole business woman look. It's incredibly sexy, but I am a bit worried," he said. I looked over at him confused. He sauntered towards me and placed his hands on my waist.
"How in the world am I going to keep the men off of you when you dress like this? I can't even be here in your office to keep your co-worker's eyes or hands off you," he said, his eyes glazing over with lust. I laughed loudly and pulled away from him.
"Well if you don't like it I guess I could go change," I teased him. He grabbed my wrist and pulled me back towards him.
"I never said I didn't like it, I just said I didn't like other guy's eyes on you," he said huskily, "you are welcome to wear that with me any day. Or you could wear nothing at all," he said, his voice lowering as he looked deeper into my eyes.
I blushed at his insinuations and pulled him in for a kiss. We became lost in each other until we heard someone clearing their throat behind us.
"Oh! Angela!," I said blushing, "Edward this is my assistant and good friend Angela Cheney. Angela this is my boyfriend Edward."
"It's a pleasure to meet you Angela," Edward said charmingly as he shook her hand.
"Likewise," she responded. She looked over to me and gave me a thumbs up once Edward had turned his back towards her.
"Ange, Edward is taking me out to dinner. You can leave whenever you want. I'm sure you have plans with Ben," I said smiling. She smiled and nodded, shooing me out of the office.
Edward's car was parked right outside of the building when we walked out. He held the door open for me and then ran around the car to get in on his side. He took my hand as he drove towards the restaurant, smiling the entire ride there.
We pulled up to what seemed to be a Mexican restaurant. He asked me if I like Mexican food, which I do, and walked up to the host. We had no problems with this host as he gushed over my pink Louboutins and my black Ralph Lauren dress. He had eyes for Edward more than he did for me. I laughed at Edward's uncomfortable face as the waiter winked at him.
Luckily, throughout dinner, we had no issues with flirting wait staff this time. The food was great as was the conversation. As we waited for the check, Edward took my hand that was resting on top of the table.
"Bella, I know we just got together, but Emmett and mine's parents are flying in from Chicago on Friday and I was wondering if you would come to the airport with me to pick them up. It's okay if you don't want to, I just know that my mom is dying to meet you," he said earnestly. I looked up at him. There was no way I could ever say no to him, even if I was completely scared to meet them. He says that his mom will love me, but how does he know?
"Alright. If you think they would be alright with it," I said apprehensively. He smiled widely and nodded.
"Oh they are! My mom asked me to bring you to get them. After we pick them up we are just going to head back to my apartment for the night and then meet Em and Rosalie for breakfast the next morning. Mom is going with Rose after that to the design center to look for furniture and fabrics. She said she would love if you went along with them" he said.
"Oh can I cook dinner for them?" I asked, desperate for any way to make a good impression. My cooking was fantastic, so that would be a good place to start.
"Bella, you don't have to do that. We can just order in. My parents really wouldn't mind," Edward responded. I shook my head.
"No, no, I want to. I love to cook and I'm sure that after a long day of travel your parents would like a home cooked meal." He sighed but nodded his head in consent.
Edward paid the check, even with much argument from me, and we walked out hand-in-hand of the restaurant. The waiter called out his goodbye as we left and made us promise to come back soon. I laughed and agreed that we would be back.
We got out to Edward's car just in time as it started to rain. I was surprised that it had been so nice this past week. It's a miracle when we get one sunny day in Seattle.
"You know Edward," I said once were were dry and safe inside of his car, "I need a new car now that mine is a heap of metal. After your parents leave, would you mind coming with me to look at new ones," I asked. He laughed loudly.
"You really need to ask that? Of course I'll come with you. Even if cars weren't a hobby of mine I would go with you," he replied.
Edward drove up to my apartment building and kissed me goodnight. He didn't pull away until I was safely inside of the lobby. I turned and waved, blowing him a kiss to let him know I was safe. He smiled his crooked smile at me and waved before zooming off. I went quickly up to my apartment, desperate for Alice's expertise. There were only a few times in my life that I had ever deliberately asked Alice to go shopping with me. Desperate times called for desperate measures. I wanted to look my absolute best for when I met Edward's parents. My first impression had to be a good one.
"ALICE! WE NEED TO GO SHOPPING!" I yelled as I threw the door open. There was a loud squeal, and for once in my life, I was grateful for it.
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I had spent the past three days preparing myself to meet Edward's parents. I had cleaned the apartment spotless just incase we ended up here, I went shopping for clothes for the weekend with Alice, I scoured endlessly through my cookbooks looking for the best meal to cook them. I had everything I needed to meet them, yet I was not at all ready to.
"Bella! Quit fidgeting!" Alice scolded me as she curled my hair into soft waves. I had taken the day off of work to cook at Edward's to have the meal ready in time for when we got home. I prepared a simple, but delicious meal that was my Grandma Swan's secret family recipe. I knew from experience that absolutely nobody could resist a good helping of Southern Gumbo. The pot of gumbo was on simmer on the stove of Edward's oven as I was in his room with Alice, getting dressed to go to the airport.
I had already cleaned Edward's apartment spotless as well. I had been spending almost every night here with him. The only nights that I slept at home were when he had a night shift. He was taking the whole weekend off to be with me and his parents. He didn't get to see them very often, so when he did, he took advantage of the time that he had.
Edward and I had only been together for almost a week, but it felt as if we had known each other our entire lives. We just fit together seamlessly. It was almost like a dream of how well we flowed together. I was more than happy with my life right now. I was truly euphoric. I was brought out of my thoughts as I felt Alice spin the chair around so that she could work on my makeup. She had covered the mirror with a sheet, refusing to let me see what I looked like until she was finished.
When we went shopping, we chose a very parent appropriate outfit that was still young and fresh. We bought a cream colored dress that had a light blue and light green floral print on it with ruffles that lead into a v-neck and a blue ribbon that ties around the waist. With that we paired gold hoops with a blue jewel dropped in the middle, a cream sweater with beading around the neck, and brown Michael Kors wedges. The outfit was very sweet and innocent. We were making my hair wavy and making my makeup very natural and light with all golds and browns. (A.N.- Clothes on profile!)
Just as Alice finished and I zipped up my dress, I heard keys unlock the door and Edward walk in.
"Bella?" he called out knowing that I would be here. I threw on my shoes and earrings and grabbed my sweater. I met Edward halfway down the hallway where he was coming down as he looked for me. He was still wearing his scrubs and sneakers. I threw my arms around him and he picked me up and spun me as he kissed my lips.
"Hey! Don't mess up her makeup!" Alice called from behind us. Edward laughed and looked over my shoulder.
"Hello to you too Alice," he chuckled. She nodded and winked at him as she walked out the door.
"Have fun!" she yelled out. I waved and thanked her and before I knew it, she was gone. I looked over at Edward who was looking me up and down with an approving smile on his face.
"Do I look okay?" I asked, fidgeting with the ribbon around my waist. He pulled my face up to his and kissed me sweetly.
"You look stunning," he replied. I blushed and he kissed my cheek before letting my go and going into his room to change.
"I'm going to check on dinner, but be ready in five minutes!" I called after him. I walked into the kitchen to smell the familiar and comforting smell of homemade gumbo. This smell reminded me of when my dad would take me down to Louisiana where he grew up and I would spend countless hours in the kitchen with Grandma Swan as she taught me all of the Swan family recipes. I hope that Dr. and Mrs. Cullen would love it as much as I do.
"It smells amazing love," Edward said as he walked into the kitchen. He had a lavender and white stripped button down shirt on with dark washed jeans and brown leather loafers. He looked scrumptious as usual.
"Thanks, but we have to get going if we want to make it on time for when your parents arrive," I replied as I grabbed my bag and put on my aviators. Edward grabbed his keys and his leather jacket and we were off.
The entire ride to the airport I played with Edward's free hand that was sitting in my lap. He could sense my nerves, but knew that if he said anything it would just make everything worse. We pulled into the airport parking lot five minutes before the plane was scheduled to arrive and got out walking hand-in-hand towards the baggage claim where we were to meet his parents. Edward rubbed soothing circles with his thumb on my hand as he tried to calm my nerves. He tried to act casual, but I could see the excitement brewing under his eyes as he searched the crowds for any signs of his parents. His head whipped around as he heard his name being called out.
"EDWARD!" cried a woman with wavy caramel brown hair. She dropped her bags and ran straight towards us. She jumped into Edward's waiting arms and kissed him brightly on the cheek. As the sun hit her beautiful caramel locks, I could see the hints of bronze shine through her hair. Now I knew where Edward got his gorgeous head of hair from. Edward put his mother down and finally, I got a good look at her face.
She was absolutely stunning. She may have been in her early fifties, but she was still as stunning as a twenty year old. She had a pale, heart shaped face with motherly and delicate features. Her lips were big and plump just like Edward's. The thing that caught me the most was how her ocean blue eyes were exactly like Emmett's.
She smiled brightly at Edward and then turned towards me. Her smile became gentle and sweet as she took me in.
"And you must be Bella," she said warmly. I smiled timidly and nodded.
"It's a pleasure to meet you Mrs. Cullen," I responded politely. She laughed and shook her head.
"Please dear, call me Esme. Mrs. Cullen makes me feel so old!" she replied. I laughed along with her and she smiled even brighter at me. She pulled me into a warm and inviting hug.
"Thank you Bella. You have finally made my son whole," she whispered so quietly in my ear that nobody else could hear. I smiled gratefully at her, thanking her with my eyes. She nodded and kissed my cheek.
Esme felt more like a mother to me than my own mother ever did. My mother was still a teenager at heart, when I could tell that Esme was born to nurture others and be a mother goose.
Esme turned back towards Edward who was talking to a tall blonde man. The man looked so incredibly familiar. He had Edward's exact facial structure, except for the lips. Edward had his mother's lips. Dr. Cullen had emerald green eyes just like my Edward's. His hair was cut shorter than Edward's but I could clearly see that if he let it grow as long as Edward's, it would be just as messy. The only thing that gave away any indication of Edward's father's age were the laugh lines that surrounded his eyes.
Edward and his father were currently hugging and laughing with each other about something that was said. Edward turned towards me and put his arm around my waist. Dr. Cullen turned towards me and gave me the exact same crooked smile of Edward's that I loved so much. Like father like son.
"And this lovely young lady must be the infamous Bella," he said smiling, "I believe we have met before, you were just not quite aware of your surroundings," he said laughing. I racked my brain, trying to remember when I could have possibly met this man. I gasped as it came to me.
"You were the other doctor in the room when I woke up from my accident!" I exclaimed. He laughed and nodded. "I knew that I knew you from somewhere, I just couldn't remember where! What were you doing in Seattle at the time?" I asked.
"I was there to give a conference on a new heart surgery and just happened to be visiting and old friend from the hospital when you and Edward came in from the accident," he replied smiling. I blushed deeply.
"I'm glad we get to meet again Dr. Cullen. This time, I promise I won't be drugged," I laughed. Esme and Dr. Cullen both laughed along with me and Edward looked down at me adoringly.
"Please call me Carlisle. Dr. Cullen was my father," he said smiling brightly at me. I nodded and stuck my hand out to shake his. He ignored it and pulled me into a hug just like his wife. I was already beginning to adore this family.
"Do you guys have all of your bags?" Edward asked his parents. Carlisle laughed and put his arm around Esme's waist.
"Yes, I have my one duffle and your mother's three suitcases," he said looking at his wife teasingly.
"It's not my fault I pack a lot! I always have to be prepared! Who knows what I might need!" she replied. I laughed as I remembered where I had heard that before.
"You remind me exactly of my best friend and roommate Alice," I told her as we walked out of the airport. She laughed and took my hand.
"Well I am just going to have to meet his Alice," she replied warmly. I laughed and agreed with her. We all got into Edward's car, me and Esme in the back, and Carlisle and Edward in the front. Carlisle and Edward were already talking about some new surgical tool that was state of the art. Esme turned towards me and took my hand in hers.
"So Bella, where did you grow up?" she asked me.
"I grew up in a tiny town just a couple hours north of here called Forks." I replied. Her face lit up brightly.
"Edward! You didn't tell me Bella grew up in Forks!" she cried out. Edward looked back at us through the rear view mirror.
"Sorry mom, I completely forgot that you two had a vacation home up there," Edward responded. I looked at her bewildered. They had a house in Forks?
"You have a house in Forks?" I asked incredulously. She laughed and nodded brightly.
"We do! I grew up there and when my parents died, they left their house to us. I was too attached to the house to let it go so we kept it for whenever we needed a getaway," she replied. If she grew up in Forks, she had to know my father who grew up there with his grandparents while his mom and dad lived down in Louisiana. There was no good school down there at the time, so they sent my dad up to Forks.
"If you grew up there, then you must know my dad. He lived there since he was five and is now the chief of police," I said.
"Your Charlie's daughter?!" she yelled out. I nodded my head and she laughed loudly, throwing her arms around me in a hug. "Your dad and I used to be the best of friends! We lost touch when I moved to Chicago for college, but reconnected a few years ago when Carlisle and I visited!"
This was absolutely insane. It seemed as if the entire Cullen family and I were connected through all of the people I know somehow. Charlie and Esme. Alice and Jasper. Edward and Emmett. Emmett and Rosalie. Jasper and Rosalie. We were all connected somehow through a tangled web.
"How is the old man?" she asked giddy that she was finally meeting good old Charlie Swan's daughter.
"He's doing great. He's even dating a woman named Sue. He was best friends with her husband Harry who died a decade ago," I replied.
"Sue Clearwater?" she asked. I nodded my head and laughed.
"It seems we knew each other before we even met!" I said. She laughed along with me before we were interrupted by Edward.
"Hey mom, Bella made dinner for us tonight back at the apartment," Edward told her. She looked over at me and smiled warmly.
"Bella dear, you didn't have to do that! We could have ordered in." I shook my head at her.
"No really, I wanted to do it. I couldn't have you coming to eat out of a box. It was really no hassle at all. I just put together my Grandma's family Gumbo recipe and it's been on the stove all day," I replied with a smile. She smiled at me happily and squeezed my hand.
"Thank you dear," she said just as we pulled up to Edward's apartment building. Carlisle got out and helped Esme out of the back at the same time that Edward did the same for me. Now I see where Edward got his manners from.
We walked into the lobby and I waved over to Jacob. He smiled and waved back cheerily. Over the past few days as I had been coming in and out of Edward's apartment, using his spare key under the mat, Jacob and I had become good friends. he was always happy to see me and had a new story to tell me. The elevator door opened and we walked over to Edward's door. He unlocked it and let everyone in ahead of him. Carlisle went straight to the guest room and put their bags down. Esme walked around the living room taking everything in. I knew she had decorated it for him when he moved in.
"Edward the place looks great! I can't remember it ever being this clean before," she said with a laugh. Edward smiled and looked over at me.
"I had nothing to do with it. Bella cleaned the place up for me even when I told her not to. This one is almost as stubborn as you mom," he said smiling goofily over at his mother. She slapped him lightly on the arm but laughed all the same.
I turned around and headed into the kitchen to check on the gumbo and take the homemade rolls out of the oven. I opened the pot and let the delicious smell of the Cajun spices surround me. They smelled absolutely delicious. The rolls were golden brown as I took the melted butter and brushed it lightly over them. I heard a movement behind me and turned to see Esme leaning up against the island looking at me with a pensive smile on her face.
"Is there anything that I can help you with dear?" she asked kindly.
"Oh no, I'm fine. All that I need to do is put the gumbo in some bowls and we are set!" I told her. She smiled at me warmly and walked up to me.
"Bella, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for making my son so happy. I know you two are still so new in the relationship, but I can't help but feel that you will be the one who's wedding I will be planning. I am so happy that Edward found a woman so fantastic and kind hearted as you. After that terrible incident with Tanya, Edward was never the same. You brought him back dear, but you brought him back ten times as brighter as before. You two are perfect for each other. I already love you like a daughter Bella," she said, the raw emotion in her voice so moving.
I could feel the tears welling up in my eyes and the few that escaped. These weren't tears of sadness or fear, these were tears of pure joy and bliss. Those words that Esme had said to me made me feel incredible. I had been so concerned about Edward's mom not liking me, but that was so far from what she had just told me. I already felt a kinship towards her. Her words brought me pure happiness. If I had Esme's approval of Edward and I, that was all that I needed.
"Thank you so much Esme," I replied hoarsely from the tears building up inside of me. "You have no idea how much that means to me," I told her, my voice finally cracking at the end. Esme pulled me into a tight hug and rubbed my back.
"There is no need to thank me dear. I only speak the truth," she said.
I heard someone walking down the hallway towards the kitchen. The distinct sound of Edward humming echoed down it and into the kitchen. He froze in his tracks as he took in the scene before him. I'm sure we looked like quite the sight.
A few tears had leaked from my eyes as well as Esme's and we were both hugging each other tightly. Edward responded quickly as he ran in and pulled me to his chest.
"Bella love, what's wrong? Is everything alright? Mom?" he asked frantically. I laughed and looked up at him smiling brilliantly.
"Everything is perfect. Absolutely perfect," I replied and buried my head into his chest and inhaled. This is pure bliss right here being wrapped up in Edward's arms with his mouthwatering scent swirling around me. He pulled back and looked at me and then over at his mom. He must have been satisfied with what he saw because he smiled down at me and kissed me sweetly.
"Everything looks great sweetheart," he said as he looked over at the food. "Is it all ready?" I nodded and went back over to the stove, filling the four bowls with the tasty gumbo. We all sat down at the table and laughed through the entire meal.
By the time we were all done and finally sitting in the living room, I realized how late it was. I yawned and leaned into Edward's chest.
"I think it's bed time for Bella," he said smiling as I snuggled into his embrace. He scooped me up bridal style and said goodnight to his parents. I waved over his shoulder and called out my goodnights as he carried me into his room. He placed me gently onto his soft bed and crawled on top of me.
"Thank you so much for today, love," he said as he kissed my neck. I wrapped my arms around him happily. "They absolutely adore you," he finished with a kiss on my lips. I smiled up at him and got up, walking over to his closet.
Over the past few days, I have taken to sleeping in one of Edward's soft t-shirts. They smelled like him and put me right to sleep. He didn't seem to mind either as his eyes filled with lust once I walked out of the closet in the t-shirt. He was already under the covers in just his boxers. I stopped momentarily to admire my boyfriends beautifully sculpted chest and then hopped onto the bed, burrowing into the soft down comforter.
He sighed happily and put his arm around my waist, drawing me closer to him. I fell asleep blissfully that night with Esme's words ringing in my head.
"I already love you like a daughter Bella..."
Review please! I love hearing from all of you! Thank you so much for all of your
wonderful support. All of the clothes mentioned in this chapter are up on my profile. Thanks so much!
xoxo, VK