A/N: Hi everyone! Thanks so much for your reviews to the last chapter. I'm glad most of you enjoyed Bella and Edward's 'first time'. I'm sorry I've taken longer than normal to post this chapter - between school holidays, coping with a stressed out daughter studying for finals exams, graduation and formals ('Prom' to many of you) it's been a bit crazy around here. Anyway, enjoy 'the morning after'.

PS: Thanks for helping me crack the 300 review mark.

o-o-o-o-o-o

Chapter 12

Bella slowly woke from the mists of sleep, feeling deliciously warm and comfortable. There was heavy warmth surrounding her and it took Bella a few moments for the realisation of where she was to sink in.

She was lying in Edward's bed, in his arms, after having spent a large portion of the night making love with him. Bella grinned delightedly as the memories of the incredible way he'd made her feel came back. No wonder she felt so mellow and languid.

Edward was lying behind her, his body pressed against her back. One arm was under her neck like a pillow while the other was across her waist, his hand on her breast. Bella could hear and feel his deep, even breaths against her hair. Even in sleep, he needed her close.

Turning her head, she looked at his bedside clock and saw that it was after ten in the morning. They hadn't fallen asleep until the early hours so she wasn't surprised that they had slept in. It wasn't like they had to be anywhere. There was nowhere Bella would rather be anyway.

The call of nature suddenly made its presence felt. Carefully, so as not to wake him, Bella slid out from under his arm and got out of bed. As she stood there naked Bella suddenly felt self conscious. It was one thing to be naked whilst lost in the delights of lovemaking but Bella wasn't brave enough or confident enough to walk around Edward's house without a stitch on.

Looking down, she spotted Edward's shirt on the floor where he'd tossed it the night before. She picked it up and put it on, breathing in his delicious scent as she rolled the sleeves up. The shirt fell to mid-thigh which Bella was thankful for. She was about to put her underwear on but decided against it. The hidden temptress in Bella was starting to make herself known.

Bella turned and looked down at the sleeping Edward and smiled tenderly. His hair was a riotous mess, made that way by the number of times she'd run her hands through it during the night. He had eyelashes many women would kill for, now lying against the skin under his eyes. His lips were softly parted, his full lower lip tempting Bella to run her tongue along it, to feel its smoothness. Bella's eyes wandered down over his body, the bedclothes only coming up to his waist. She couldn't help licking her lips as her eyes took in his taut, toned torso. His arms were beautifully muscular as was his chest. She could see the delineated muscles in his stomach, muscles she had touched and tasted.

She could feel her pulse get faster as she looked at him. Now that she knew what kind of lover Edward was, she only had to look at him to want him again. She couldn't imagine anyone being as gentle, tender and loving as Edward had been.

And he loves me, thought Bella in wonder. Edward Cullen, who could have any woman he wanted, loved Bella Swan. Bella felt tears prick her eyes as the knowledge sunk in. She couldn't believe how much she loved Edward back. He seemed to fill every corner of her heart, her whole being. She'd never known what being 'in love' was until now. This feeling that her soul would be ripped away if Edward didn't love her anymore, that she wouldn't ever fill the emptiness. That she wanted his happiness more than her own. Knowing that he felt the same humbled her.

Her body let her know once again that she needed to attend to its needs so she tore her eyes from her beloved Edward and headed to his ensuite bathroom. Once she felt comfortable again, Bella looked at herself in the mirror and gave a slight grimace. The makeup from the previous night was smudged and Bella needed to wash it off. She decided to have a quick shower before Edward woke. When she took off his shirt she saw the faint marks on her body left by Edward's eager hands and mouth. There was one mark on her shoulder, left there when Edward had pressed down with his teeth during the throes of his climax. Bella touched it with a faint smile, knowing she'd left her mark on him as well. There were also a couple of faint bruises on her thighs, proof of Edward's passionate nature.

Stepping into the steaming hot water, Bella let the water flow over her. She could feel a slight twinge of discomfort between her legs, not surprising really. Scrubbing her face clean, she used Edward's shampoo to wash her hair then closed her eyes as she thought about the night's events with a smile on her face.

The sound of water running woke Edward up. Not used to having anyone in his house, the sound startled him for a moment. Once he realised it was Bella, Edward lay back and stretched lazily, grinning like the cat that got the cream.

He couldn't remember ever feeling this happy before. Or so turned on. He thought about a wet, naked Bella in his shower and his body instantly responded. How he loved that woman! Needing to be with her, he got out of bed and went into the ensuite.

Shutting the door quietly behind him, he watched Bella soaping herself, her back to him, her body partly obscured by the fogged up glass. When she bent at the waist to scrub her legs, Edward groaned softly. He decided it was time to fulfil one of his 'Bella' fantasies.

Lost in her thoughts, Bella was entirely unaware she was no longer alone until she felt a draft of air. Turning, she gave a little yelp as Edward's arms encircled her waist and pulled her back into his body.

"Hey beautiful," he crooned. "Need some help?"

Bella moaned as his hands began roaming over her slick body and pressed her back against his straining erection. "I've already washed myself," she replied breathlessly.

"That's a shame," he murmured into her shoulder, licking away drops of water. "I could do with some help though."

"Oh really? Well, as a nurse, how could I possibly deny you my assistance?" she teased, pulling out of his arms.

"You couldn't. You're too dedicated," grinned Edward. "I'm in great discomfort, Nurse Swan."

"Let me see what I can do," breathed Bella, pouring some soap onto her hands. With a seductive smile, Bella began massaging Edward's chest, the soapy bubbles allowing her to slide her hands easily over his skin. She caressed him as she pretended to soap him, her hands moving lower and lower.

Feeling daring, Bella bent down and soaped Edward's legs before giving up all pretence at washing him and taking his manhood in her hand.

Edward gasped as she grasped him and when she took him in her mouth, his head fell back against the glass as he groaned loudly.

"Bella!" he cried as his hands tangled themselves in her wet tendrils of hair.

Bella began moving, pleasuring him with her mouth and hands, making little moaning noises of her own which drove Edward crazy. The large showerhead ensured they were both under the warm water, which added to the atmosphere.

It didn't take long before Edward could feel himself ready to explode.

"Bella. Stop. I want to be inside you," he begged breathlessly.

Bella let him go as Edward pulled her up to her feet. Adjusting the shower head, he gently pushed Bella back against the wet tiles. Taking her mouth with his, they devoured each other as he ground into her, his fingers feeling her moist readiness.

Their mouths still locked together, Edward lifted her up as Bella wound her arms and legs around him. Leaning her back against the wall and his hands under her thighs, Edward positioned himself at her entrance.

"Ready, my love?" he asked.

Bella nodded, moaning loudly as he slowly entered her. When he was buried deeply in her body, Edward stopped and looked deeply into Bella's hooded brown eyes.

"I love you, Bella."

"I love you too," she gasped, lost in the exquisite sensation of being filled by Edward. This was definitely heaven on earth. "Please Edward. More."

In response to her pleading, Edward began moving, building a steady rhythm that had both their pulses racing.

"Ohh!" moaned Bella as she felt her excitement building rapidly. "Oh God, Edward. You feel so good!"

"Bella, Bella, Bella," grunted Edward in response, in time with his thrusts.

The excitement of making love in the shower, the warm water falling on their bodies and their love and lust for each other meant that it wasn't long before they reached their peaks.

"Ooohhhh!" cried Bella, her legs gripping his waist as she came, her heart thundering in her chest.

"Oh, baby," he cried in response. The sound of her coming apart in his arms was enough to send him over the edge. "Bella!" he ground out as he climaxed in her arms, bucking frantically into her.

It took several minutes before either of them spoke, neither having any breath left to say anything.

Edward smiled tenderly at Bella as he slowly pulled out of her and set her on her feet before kissing her softly, pouring all his love and affection into the kiss.

When they broke apart, Edward rested his forehead against hers, the water still falling around them.

"Good morning," he smiled.

Bella grinned back. "A very good morning."

With a quick kiss, Edward turned off the water and followed Bella out of the shower. He grabbed a towel and wrapped it around his waist before getting another one to dry Bella off.

"I can dry myself Edward," protested Bella lightly as he began patting her dry.

"I know you can but I want to do it," replied Edward.

Bella nodded and stood still while he dried her body, feeling cherished like never before. When she was dry, he got another towel and began towel-drying her hair.

"Here, let me," she said, taking the towel from him and wrapping her hair in it. Despite his protests, she put his shirt back on.

"Mmm, that shirt has never looked that good on me," he stated, admiring her legs beneath the shirt.

"Oh, I think I'd have to disagree. You looked positively delicious in it last night," said Bella.

Taking hold of her around the waist, Edward pulled her close. "And you look absolutely delicious in it now." He gave her a quick, passionate kiss before leading her back into the bedroom.

Bella looked at him, wrapped in only the towel and was ready to jump his bones again. Her fingers literally itched to roam all over his broad back. She was picturing running her hands over his slim waist before unwrapping the towel and caressing his taut behind, like she'd done during the night. Lord, that man could turn her on without even trying.

Edward turned then and saw her staring at him. He grinned sexily. "See something you like?"

"Oh yeah," she replied.

Edward was in two minds as to whether to throw her back on the bed or feed her some breakfast. Fortunately, his body made up his mind for him. It needed some time to recover before making love to Bella again, however willing his mind was. After all, he wasn't a teenager any more.

"How about I get us some breakfast?" he suggested, grabbing a pair of trousers.

"If that's all you're offering, it'll have to do, I suppose," she replied with a little pout. Where had this sex-crazed Bella come from? She wondered dazedly.

"For now, my darling, for now," he said with a laugh. "I have to keep up my strength you know."

"I suppose," she teased. "Um, can I borrow a comb and a toothbrush?"

"Of course. There's a couple of unopened brushes in the bathroom cabinet. Help yourself. Use whatever you need. I'll start breakfast."

Still wearing only his shirt, Bella brushed her teeth and hair, leaving the damp mass falling down her back.

As she walked to the kitchen the delicious smells of bacon, eggs and toast cooking assailed her senses, making her stomach rumble. She hadn't realised she was hungry but now her mouth was literally watering.

Wearing a pair of khaki pants and white t-shirt, Edward was busily cooking. Bella leaned against the doorjamb for a few moments just watching him.

Bella thought he was breathtakingly beautiful. And the outside package was just enhanced by what was inside. She still couldn't believe her luck.

He was buttering some toast when Bella walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around him. "Mmm, smells good," she murmured, breathing him in.

"Take a seat, it's just about ready," he said, giving her a quick peck on the lips before getting a couple of plates. "Here, take the toast." Bella took the plate of toast to the table which he'd already laid with glasses and cutlery. He placed the two plates down before sitting down.

With a thank you, Bella began eating, enjoying his fluffy eggs and juicy bacon. Edward finished before her and brought a pot of coffee to the table. He poured coffee into both their cups and watched her finishing her breakfast.

Wiping her mouth, Bella sat back. "I didn't realise I was so hungry. You do a great bacon and eggs, Edward."

"One of my few culinary talents, I'm afraid. I usually just have toast in the morning but I do enjoy my bacon and eggs when I'm not working. Would like some more?"

"Oh no! Thanks, but I'm full," said Bella, leaning back in her seat and taking a sip of her coffee. They sat in companionable silence while they drank their coffees, just looking into each other's eyes.

When they finished, Bella helped Edward clear up, despite his protests. She wiped while he washed and soon they went into the lounge. Bella noticed her dress lying in puddle on the floor where it had fallen last night. She picked it up and laid it over an armchair. Edward walked over and wrapped his arms around her kissing the skin of her shoulder before moving back to the lounge, pulling Bella down to sit on his lap, his arms wrapped around her waist.

"You know I'll never be able to wear this shirt again," he said, running his fingers idly up and down her leg.

"Why not?" she asked, finding it hard to concentrate on anything other than his hand on her leg.

"Because you look so damn good in it, it would be a sacrilege."

Bella wrapped her arms around his neck and they kissed for a long time, enjoying the closeness. After several minutes, they broke apart and Bella laid her head on his shoulder, drinking in his warmth. Edward reached up and stroked her hair, running his fingers through the damp tendrils, air drying them.

He didn't know if Bella had noticed, but something about their lovemaking in the shower was bothering him.

"Bella, my love?"

"Yes?"

"Um...ah...I..." Damn, why did he feel so awkward? They had made love numerous times and it's something he should have brought up before they had sex for the first time, but it just seemed embarrassing somehow.

"What, darling? Tell me," she urged.

"Ok. I don't know if you noticed in the shower but I was so caught up in our lovemaking that I completely forgot about using a condom."

"Oh," said Bella. She probably wouldn't have noticed if a train had gone through the room at that particular moment.

"I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking clearly."

Bella bit her lip. "Are you worried about pregnancy? I noticed last night that you used a condom every time."

Edward hugged her close and kissed her temple. "No, love. It's not that. It's just that I didn't want you worrying about your health. We really should have talked about it before and I don't know why we didn't. I want you to know that I haven't been with anyone for nearly two years now. I promise you that I haven't got anything that could risk your health. I'll even get it in writing from a doctor if you want. God, this is so awkward."

Bella smiled and cupped his cheek. "Thank you for telling me that. And thank you for caring so much about me that you thought about it. To tell the truth, I only gave it a fleeting thought. Probably because it's been so long for me that STD's weren't at the topmost of my thinking when I thought about making love with you. And I don't need to see anything. I know, as a doctor, that you would be regularly tested for AIDS and other diseases. The same with me. It's a perk, I suppose, of working in the medical profession. I thought that pregnancy was the reason you used the condom."

Edward shook his head. "No. I'm still infertile. Your chances of getting pregnant are practically non-existent."

"Practically? When was the last time you were tested?"

"Around four years ago," he admitted. "There was nothing then. Six years after treatment and no improvement so I'm pretty sure that nothing has changed since then."

Bella could see the sadness in his eyes as he said it. Her heart ached for him. It was obviously painful for him that he couldn't father a child naturally. She hugged him tightly, giving him comfort as best as she could. He rested his head on hers, not saying anything for a while.

Eventually Bella spoke. "So, do we do away with them?"

"That's up to you, my love. If you feel better with me using condoms, I'll will. For myself, I just want you to be happy."

"Well, since we're both clean and pregnancy isn't an issue, let's not bother with them. I like the thought of nothing coming between us."

Edward groaned at the thought and could feel his body getting excited again, sure Bella had noticed. His hand ran up her leg and under the hem of his shirt and he breathed in sharply when he realised that she had no underwear on.

"Dear lord, Bella. What are you doing to me?" he groaned as he took her lips with his.

They kissed urgently, both instantly turned on by the other. With muttered groans and soft sighs, they got lost in each other and didn't bother going back to the bedroom. They spent the next couple of hours pleasurably occupied right there on the lounge.

o-o-o-o-o-o

It was the afternoon before they surfaced again. Edward had carried Bella back to bed where they had snuggled together for a while before falling asleep again.

Bella sat up in Edward's bed, the sheet pulled up over her breasts as she watched Edward get dressed again, enjoying the sight immensely.

"I've just realised I've got nothing to wear home," grimaced Bella. "I can't wear my dress. Anyone who sees me will know exactly what I've been up to."

Edward grinned. "Do you care?"

"Well, yes. I do have a reputation to protect. It's one thing to know that I'm seeing you, it's quite another to flaunt the fact that I've probably been in your bed since last night when I turn up in the same clothes I had on last night," said Bella crossly.

Edward moved to sit on the bed and took her hand. "I'm sorry Bella. Of course you care about your reputation. I didn't mean to make light of it. It's just that I'm so happy that I can't seem to think badly of anything at the moment."

"I know, it's ok," said Bella, kissing his cheek. "I still have a problem though. I certainly can't wear your shirt home."

"I can go to your place and bring you back some clothes, if you like. Or I can lend you something. I'm sure I've got something that you can adjust, just until I drive you home."

Bella agreed to borrow some clothes and waited in bed while Edward searched his cupboards for the smallest clothing he owned that Bella could wear. He located an old pair of sweat pants, teaming it with his college sweatshirt.

"The pants can be pulled in at the waist so they don't fall off," he said, holding them up.

Bella thanked him and took the clothes. Holding them to her, she located her discarded underwear and scuttled to the bathroom.

She could hear Edward chuckle as she closed the door. "You've been naked with me for almost the last eighteen hours, Bella. What are you trying to hide that I haven't already seen?"

Bella opened the door and stuck her head out. "I'm not used to walking around naked," she admitted. "Especially with someone else around."

Edward leaned against the wall, near the bathroom door. "Bella, you are exquisite. I love all of you, even the dimple on your cute behind. Don't be self-conscious around me."

How did he make her feel all gooey and mushy with just a few words? "I'll try Edward. Give me time."

"Of course. I hope to give you many, many more opportunities to walk around naked with me around," he grinned saucily.

Bella giggled and closed the door, yelling out "Pervert!" She heard Edward burst out laughing and proceeded to get dressed with a smile on her face.

She managed to tighten the cords on the pants enough so that they didn't fall off. The sweatshirt swamped her but at least she could roll the sleeves up as well as the hems. She went back outside realising she'd have to wear her high heels home. There was no way she could borrow his shoes!

Edward was clearing up the bedroom and chuckled when he saw her. "You look way too cute in my clothes to let you out of this house."

"Cute? Ugh! I look like some sort of refugee," she protested, hiking up the collar which was falling over her shoulder.

"No, you look adorable. Come here," he said, holding his arms out.

Bella didn't need a second invitation as she launched herself into his arms. They kissed playfully for a long time. Edward lifted his head. "Mmm, you taste much too good, my little orphan Annie."

"Orphan Annie!" she cried with mock outrage. "I'll show you Orphan Annie," she said and started tickling him under his arms, an area he was sensitive as she found out the night before.

"Two can play at that game. You don't know what you've started, my girl," growled Edward, his hands reaching for her waist at the same time he was trying to avoid her hands. With his longer reach, Edward had a distinct advantage and it wasn't long before Bella was laughing and squealing at the same time as he tickled her waist.

Bella managed to get her hand under his top and was doing her best to get the upper hand when she felt herself being lifted and dropped onto the bed by a laughing Edward. When he started blowing raspberries on her waist, Bella began crying for mercy, in between her gasps of laughter.

"Stop! I surrender!" she gasped out, her legs flailing as she tried to get away.

"So you admit I win this tickle fight?" grinned Edward evilly.

"Yes, yes!"

Edward sat up, holding out his hand to help her up. Both of them had to rearrange their clothing, still chuckling. Edward put his arm around her shoulder and held her close, kissing her on her temple.

"Ready to go? We can go and get an early dinner after you've changed," he suggested.

"Sounds good. I'll look the real fashion plate dressed in your clothes with my high heeled shoes. Poor Alice would have a heart attack if she saw me."

"Are you kidding? She'd know exactly why you're wearing my clothes and would be dancing a jig," said Edward.

"Yeah, you're probably right. Hope most of the good folk of Forks are indoors out of the cold this afternoon, though."

Edward drove Bella back to her apartment, where to her vast relief, there was no-one around to see her arrive home in her strange attire.

"Help yourself to anything you'd like while I get changed," said Bella as they entered her apartment.

Taking her by the waist, Edward kissed the bare skin of Bella's shoulder. "What if what I'd like is you?" he murmured against her skin.

"Sounds very tempting but I have to admit I'm starving," replied Bella turning to kiss him.

"Well I can't have my lady love hungry, can I? Go get changed and we'll go out," he urged, pushing her gently towards her bedroom. "Later though, I'm going to finish what we started in there the other day before we were rudely interrupted."

"Promise?" smiled Bella seductively.

"Cross my heart."

They headed into the centre of town to have dinner. Bella was feeling herself again in her familiar jeans. She was wearing her most provocative underwear, though she didn't tell Edward. Let him find out for himself later.

After all the exercise she'd had, Bella was hankering for pizza so they went back to the pizza place where they'd shared their first meal together. This time, Edward insisted she sit next to him in the booth. They gave their order to the waitress then Edward sat back and pulled Bella close.

"I don't think I've ever been this happy, my love," said Edward.

"Me neither. I feel like I'm going to wake up and all this will have been a dream."

He couldn't help himself, he gave her a soft, lingering kiss. "I'm so in love with you, Bella."

Bella's heart was racing, as it always did when he touched her. "I'm crazy in love with you Edward. I didn't know anything could feel this strong."

"When did you fall in love with me?" he asked.

"Probably when I crashed into you in the Emergency department," she teased. "I don't know. I was instantly attracted to you. Beyond all reason. Then I got to know you and it just grew. I knew for sure last week, when you played for me. What about you?"

"Like you, I wanted you right away. The night of Alice's dinner party, I was so turned on by you I was seriously considering sneaking away into the bathroom for some relief."

"Really?" asked a wide-eyed Bella.

"Oh yeah. I don't remember spending such an uncomfortable night. Just as I'd get myself under control, you would laugh or move or flick your hair and I'd be back where I started. It took an enormous amount of will-power not to take you against your car."

Bella blushed, fascinated by the thought.

"I love watching you blush, you know that?" he murmured, rubbing his nose against her cheek. "What's made you blush this time?"

Embarrassed, Bella blushed even harder.

"Go on, tell me," urged Edward, rubbing her thigh with his free hand.

Not wanting anyone to overhear, she leaned into him and whispered in his ear. "The thought of you taking me against the car. Or in the car."

Edward's hand gripped her thigh as he stopped himself from groaning aloud. "Hold that thought, my love," he whispered back. "It's a bit cold at the moment, but when the weather warms up..." He left it at that as he pulled away when their orders arrived.

They turned the conversation to safer topics during their meal, even though the sexual tension between them was almost tangible. A couple of other diners, patients of theirs, stopped to say hello and wish them a merry Christmas, speculation clearly in their eyes as they saw them together.

"I noticed you don't have any Christmas decorations up," said Edward after the women left.

"I don't really bother since I'm usually at Dad's on Christmas day. And I'm going to Florida this time." It suddenly dawned on her that she would be away from Edward, on the other side of the country.

"I'll miss you and count the minutes until you come back," said Edward.

"I wish I could cancel but Mom is really looking forward to my visit," said Bella regretfully.

"Don't be silly. Of course your mother wants to see you. It's only a couple of days."

"Why don't you come with me? Mom wouldn't mind."

"I doubt I'd be able to get on the same flight, a week before Christmas, don't you? And besides, I'm working over Christmas. I can't ask for time off when I've only been there a few weeks."

"I know," sighed Bella. "It's just that I don't want to be away from you."

"I don't either. But we'll talk on the phone and you'll probably be so busy catching up that the time will fly."

"I suppose."

"Can I see you off and pick you up?" asked Edward.

"I'd love that. I was going to ask Jake to do it, but I'd much rather it were you, although I'll hate saying goodbye."

"Think about when you come back instead," he urged.

"You're spending Christmas with your parents, I suppose?" asked Bella.

"Yeah, although I'm working that day. I'll get back for dinner. So we couldn't have spent the whole day together anyway, even if you were here. Where's your father spending Christmas, with you out of town?"

"He's going to Jake's father's place. Edward, would you come to his place with me? I'd like to introduce you to my father. He knows I've been seeing you and wants to meet you. He's a bit overprotective, but he's ok. Would you?"

"Of course I'd like to meet your father. And being overprotective of his daughter is his job as a father, isn't it?" he asked with a smile. "Is there anything I should know? Any topics to avoid? I'd hate to put my foot in it at the first meeting."

Bella laughed. "No. Dad's pretty much an open book. He's really into sports so if you know anything about football that's a pretty safe topic. He'll probably grill you about your prospects," grinned Bella.

"Damn, I was hoping to avoid that subject," joked Edward.

"And for god's sake don't tell him we're lovers," warned Bella.

"Oh, and I was planning on telling him everything I've been doing to his daughter," he replied, tongue in cheek.

Bella just poked him in the ribs with her elbow, Edward giving an exaggerated grunt of pain.

Edward held Bella's hand as they walked back to his car after their meal. She directed him to Charlie's house, neither of them saying much. Edward was surprised to find himself nervous about this meeting with her father. He hadn't met a girl's parents since high school. And he certainly hadn't been sleeping with any of them at that time.

Would Charlie be able to tell that he'd spent the night making mad, passionate love with his daughter? That he intended to make mad, passionate love to her again tonight after they left? What if Charlie Swan didn't like him? What would Bella do?

Deep breaths Edward, he said to himself. Just be yourself. You're a grown man with a responsible, respected job. You have no secrets to be ashamed of. You're a good man who's well liked and respected. And most importantly, you love his daughter deeply and want nothing more than for her to be happy. If the man can't accept that, then there's nothing more you can do.

It didn't take long before they were pulling up in front of Charlie's house. Edward looked at the house that Bella had spent a large part of her life in. It was simple weatherboard, two-storied house. Comfortable, unpretentious. Like Bella.

He climbed out of the Volvo and walked around to open Bella's door.

"You don't have to do that Edward. I can open my own doors."

"I know you can. I've been brought up like this. Dad has always opened doors for Mom. It's just a courtesy that I've always seen. I know that you're the most intelligent, capable woman I've ever met. I won't do it if bothers you."

"It doesn't bother me. I'm just not used to it, that's all. If it makes you happy, that's fine with me," she replied.

"I like treating you like a princess. Like you're precious to me. Which you are. You're my lady, and I enjoy treating you like one."

"And you're my man," she said, caressing his cheek.

"Yes, only yours."

They stared into each other's eyes for several minutes, no words needed. Bella finally broke the spell, reaching up and kissing him sweetly. "Come on, let's meet my Dad."

She took his hand and led him up the porch steps and stopping at the door. "Ready?"

Edward nodded his head so Bella opened the door and called out "Dad?"

From a room off the hallway came the reply. "In here."

Bella led him into the lounge room, where Charlie was watching an ice-hockey game.

"Dad, I've brought Edward around to meet you."

Charlie looked up and put the game on mute before standing up.

"Good evening sir," said Edward, putting out his hand in greeting. "Bella's told me a lot about you."

"That so?" replied Charlie gruffly, shaking Edward's hand. "Call me Charlie."

"Thanks Charlie. It's good to finally meet you. My father speaks very highly of you."

Bella smiled inwardly. She could see Charlie straighten at the words of praise. "Your father's a very good man. We're very lucky to have him here."

"And we're just as lucky to have Edward here too," interrupted Bella.

Charlie nodded. "Yep, heard that too. Take a seat Edward. Bella, you mind getting us a beer?" He turned to Edward. "You drink, don't you son?"

Edward nodded with a smile. "Only when I'm not on call, which I'm not tonight. A beer sounds great, thanks."

"I'll get you both one. Have you had dinner, Dad?"

"Yeah, I heated up one of your dinners, Bels," replied Charlie.

"That's good. I'll just see what you have left and make more during the week if you need it."

"Don't worry about it Bels. I'll be having dinner out a few nights this week. Been invited for Christmas drinks by the guys at work."

"Oh, ok. That's good. Well, I'll just get your beers," she said, giving Edward a quick wink and going out to the kitchen.

Taking her time in order to let Edward work his charm on her father, Bella straightened out the kitchen. Finally, when she judged Edward needed her to save him, she took out the drinks before taking a seat next to Edward. She took his hand in hers, a gesture Charlie took full note of.

Charlie and Edward talked mainly about sports, Edward surprising Bella with the range of his knowledge. Bella joined in now and then but let the men do most of the talking.

"Does Edward know you're visiting your Mom this Christmas, Bels?" asked Charlie.

"Yes Dad. He's going to take me to the airport and pick me up."

"Ok. You be sure to drive carefully Edward. All sorts of loonies on the roads at this time of year. Too many people drinking and driving. I know it's Christmas but, geez, the things we see at this time of year just makes you shake your head in bewilderment."

"I'm always careful Charlie. I would never do anything to endanger Bella. My Volvo also has an excellent safety rating," replied Edward.

Bella mentally awarded Edward with multiple points for that comment. It would certainly impress Charlie. Anyone who took Bella's safety seriously was ok in his book.

"Good to hear, son. Good to hear."

After about an hour, Bella stood up, saying it was time Edward got her home.

"We've both got work tomorrow and need to get things ready."

Edward and Charlie both stood up. "Bella's right. I'd better get her home. It was good to meet you," said Edward.

Charlie shook his outstretched hand. "Same here."

"Bye Dad. I'll see you sometime this week. I'll call to make sure you're not out," said Bella, giving her father a hug.

"Yeah, see you then."

They said their goodbyes, Charlie watching from the door as Edward handed Bella into the car before getting in and driving off sedately.

"Well, that went pretty well, I thought," said Edward, taking her hand and lifting it to his lips, kissing her palm.

"Yeah, I thought so too. I didn't realise you knew so much about sport."

"Think I'm just a medical nerd, do you?" he asked with a smile.

"No. You just don't seem like a sports nut, that's all."

"I know a lot of stuff about a lot of things. I have to admit the nightly news is my favourite tv show."

"You are a nerd," she teased.

"I'll show you nerd, young lady. Just wait until I get you in bed. I'll show you just what this nerd can do," he threatened.

"Promises, promises."

When they got back to her apartment, Edward led her to her bedroom with almost indecent haste.

"God, it's been too long since you've been in my arms," he murmured as he trailed kisses down her throat whilst undoing the buttons on her shirt.

"Much, much too long," agreed Bella breathlessly.

Not much was said after that, as Edward proceeded to finish what he started, bringing them both to the peak of pleasure.

It was nearly midnight before Edward got out of bed, a drowsy Bella watching him dress. When he was ready to leave, he gave Bella a long, drawn out goodnight kiss.

"Bye my love. I'll see you at work," he said against her lips.

"Mmm. Goodbye darling. I love you," she sighed.

"I love you too. I'll let myself out. Sweet dreams, Bella," he said with one last kiss.

"Always, with you in them," she replied.

With a great effort, Edward dragged himself away from Bella and drove home. He was missing her already.

o-o-o-o-o-o

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