So I had epic fail today. A friend (Annelies) found a boo boo in my chapter when I posted. I'm sorry to those of you who clicked the update and got nothing. I pulled the chapter so I could fix it. BUT It's fixed and all better now. So THANK YOU darling for your wonderful eye and pointing it out to me. I am in much appreciation.

First let me apologize for the delay in posting this. It has been done for almost two weeks but I really wanted it to be the best it could be so it has been scanned, perused, constructively criticized and reworked. I promise to do better at posting in a more timely manner in the future! :-)

I have several people I want to thank Frumpy_V my wonderful wifey. I can ALWAYS count on you to tell me how it is and I love u for it! Your honesty is something I value immensely. Goldstar...girl, you are, well wonderful. Thanks for pointing out the obvious. The rework is because of you and I DO believe its the better for it. MsSimone for your wonderful eye for detail because, yep! I would have missed what you pointed out. Giant HUGH smooches to you all.

The french in this chapter is dedicated to my friend from Belgium...Annelies, ILU.

For my Myzterious Mazter Mind...you complete me. Robot Moose, I just love you so hard. That is all.

Disclaimer:No, I don't own Twilight or any of its characters. But thanks to a wonderful friend I now own a copy of Jackson Rathbones, 'Hurt' and I am most anxious to watch it.

EPOV

I adjusted the bow tie on my tux and gave myself a final perusal in the mirror. I was nervous. Were men supposed to have butterflies in their stomach? For some reason I thought not. I was feeling like a sissy but I couldn't help it. I had waited all week for this night and was looking forward to seeing Bella in the 'secret dress', having her on my arm and finally confirming publicly that she was mine. I wanted to dance the night away with her and hold her close, hoping and praying that after tonight she would finally let me show her the true depth of my feelings.

I had always wondered what it would feel like to fall for someone, completely and irrevocably. I had seen so many of my friends over the years take the plunge and I had never understood why they would want to tie themselves down to one woman when they could have their fill of so many. They could have a choice, and would never have to worry about getting tired of the person you were with and risking hurting them later. If you just played it simple, never walking into something with risks, then you would never have to worry about the complications down the road.

There was once, almost five years ago, when I had felt this way. I thought Tanya was the love of my life and I bent over backwards to give her the moon. She had me dazzled, and so blinded to what she really was. Everything I offered she readily accepted, never blinking an eye. Things were going great, at least I thought they were, until I walked in on her and my program director in our bed, doing things she would never dream of doing with me. Needless to say, that was the end of her, and the end of my job.

From then on out, I just played the field, and it worked. I never kept a woman close and I never, ever let them in. The cynicism had faded some over the years and although I had stopped feeling like such a pessimist about relationships, I still never made an effort to be in one myself. I mean, why should I? What exactly was I missing anyway? Bella, that's what I was missing.

But I wouldn't take any of it back, because if Tanya had never cheated on me, and if I had never caught her, then who's to say I would have met Bella?

Remembering these old feelings now, the need to keep it simple, escaped me. The moment I had met Bella, they vanished in the blink of an eye and I wanted to show her, let her know how much she meant to me. I wanted her to know that I was here for her, no matter what.

Letting out a deep breath I took one more glance at myself before backing away from the mirror. This was as good as I was going to get. Walking back into my living room I grabbed my overcoat off the back of the couch and left to pick up my Bella.

********

BPOV

I was nervous, so nervous. As a matter of fact I couldn't remember a single moment in my life when I had ever been this keyed up. Rose and Alice had tried to talk me into taking a shot of liquid courage, but I had refused. I wanted to remember everything about tonight and If I started drinking before I even left the house, especially what Rose wanted to concoct for me, there would be no way I would survive tonight. I was quite sure the wine would be flowing where we were going and I wanted to be able to enjoy myself this evening, not be a bumbling idiot.

I was in the dress that we had found on our shopping trip. Rose and Alice had brilliantly come up with a beautiful pair of black, Betsy Johnson, Keilor, three-inch sandals. Adorning my neck was a black ribbon choker and I wore a simple pair of diamond earrings on my ears. It was simple, it was me.

Rose had curled my hair and piled it on top of my head, leaving loose tendrils floating around my face. I felt like it was going to just collapse and fall, but she assured me it wasn't going anywhere.

I kept my make-up to a minimum, Alice helping in that department. I had never worn much anyhow and I didn't want to over do it. The coal and green shadow on my eyes was a bit darker than I normally wore it but Alice, being the master of all that is cosmetics, pulled it off. She lined under my eyes with a bit of the coal color and brushed on some black mascara. I turned around after they were done with me, taking in the complete package and inhaled in a sharp breath. The results were amazing, and although I never liked to put the cart before the horse I knew, just knew, that Edward was going to be speechless.

Smiling, I turned around to face Alice and Rose. "Well girls, what do you think? Do I pass?"

"Bella, Edwards not gonna know what hit him." Alice was practically beaming as she spoke.

"Did you pack an overnight bag?" Rose asked me as nonchalantly as she could.

"Why in the world would I pack an…Oh, Rose!"

"Come on Bella, you two have been dancing around it for weeks, and the sexual tension you two put off, well, let me just say that Emmett owes you a really big thank you. I mean we had a healthy sex life before, but now? The man is in heaven."

I could feel the blush creeping up my cheeks. I knew she was right and I would be lying to myself if I said the thought never crossed my mind. The thought of an overnight stay with Edward was wonderful; in his bed, making love, falling asleep in each others arms and seeing his face in the morning. However, as much as I wanted it I didn't want it to seem like it was expected to happen and to me taking a bag screamed easy. If it happened, I wanted it to just happen in the heat of the moment; no holding back, no planning.

"Rose, I'm not packing a bag, besides, if it happens, then it happens and I wont really care if I have a bag or not." My voice was soft, but assured.

Rose gave me a huge grin. "That's my Bella, go get him sweetie, because if I'm not mistaken, and I never am, that man is going to be putty in your hands tonight."

"Rose, come on."

"Seriously, Bella. The man has it bad for you and if that's not enough, you look absolutely stunning tonight."

I was speechless; compliments like this from Rose were hard to come by. I would have to file this one away for later.

"She's right Bella," Alice spoke softly. "You're beautiful anyway, but tonight I bet you're going to turn every head in the room."

Just as I was about to reply, the doorbell rang. My stomach started doing somersaults all over again, reminding me that I was still nervous. I grabbed Alice's hand. "You're sure I look alright? My hair's okay? I don't have my make-up on to dark do I? I don't want to look like harlot," I rambled.

Alice laughed, reassuring me. "Bella, you look fantastic, now go grab your purse and get the door, Edward's waiting."

"Okay, I can do this. Wish me luck guys!" I ran my hands down the bodice of my dress and smoothed out the skirt. Checking myself over one last time I left the bathroom, I grabbed my small black purse, went to the front door and opened it.

Still holding onto the doorknob, I took in the man that stood before me. He took my breath away. He was dressed in a traditional black tuxedo with peaked lapels. His bronze hair, which was usually a bit messy, had been cut shorter and was tamed down a bit. You could tell by the looks of it that he had still been running his fingers through it, a habit I noticed he had. His face was clean-shaven, which showed off his chiseled jaw. Heat ran through my body instantly.

I gave Edward a suggestive smile, "Good evening handsome, I thought you'd never get here." Instantly, all my nervousness was gone. This man, this wonderful man, was standing before me, waiting for me, wanting me. Why was I being so apprehensive still? Because I was Bella, and I was in a place in my life I had never been, which scared me to death. It was my lack of control over my feelings, not knowing from one second to the next if I would end up hurt. But tonight, I tossed it aside. I didn't care.

"I have no words that would do you justice for how you look tonight. My God Bella, you are stunning." Edward brought out from behind his back a single, long stemmed, lavender rose and held it out to me. I took it, bringing it up to my nose and smelling the sweet fragrance. "I know it doesn't exactly match your dress, but I felt it was fitting." I made a mental note to myself to look up the meaning of a lavender rose later.

"Edward, it's perfect." I smiled up at him and I took the hand he offered me. Instead of raising it to his lips, he pulled me forward and stole a sweet kiss, it was innocent, simple and perfect.

"If I could, I'd steal you away and keep you to myself all night. I'm feeling a bit selfish and needy," Edward whispered in my ear, still tenderly embracing me. "But, my selfishness is twofold. I can't wait to show up tonight with the most beautiful woman in Seattle on my arm."

I could hear the possessiveness in his voice, though it was a different possessiveness than the one James always exuded. His possessiveness was proud, tender and, dare I think, loving? James's was always jealous, selfish and callous. I swelled with happiness at his admission.

"Well then," I said, brushing my cheek over his and then ghosting my lips over the tender flesh of his neck, "Lets not keep Seattle waiting."

"Oh Lord, Bella, I don't know how I'm going to survive the evening. You have no idea the thoughts going through my head right now."

"Yes, I do. I'm sure they're the same thoughts that are going through mine. As much as I love you in this tux, I can't wait to see you out of it."

.God. I cannot believe I just said that. It was going through my head, I knew, but the fact that it had also came out of my mouth? Calm, sensible Bella had suddenly had a case of word vomit. Acting as naturally as I could and trying my best to pretend I hadn't just said that, I pulled back and took hold of his hand. "Are you ready to go?"

"I, umm, yes. I'm ready to go." I heard him mutter under his breath, "God, please let this benefit end quickly."

I giggled, feeling elated, and sexually powerful. I was glad I hadn't packed that overnight bag, because where I was going, I wouldn't need clothes.

********

We arrived at the Four Seasons in record time and Edward kept his hand firmly planted on my leg the entire way there, rubbing it up and down. I grabbed his hand just before we pulled up to the valet and placed tiny kisses on the tips of his fingers. He reached up and brushed the skin of my cheek and I couldn't help but lean into it, smiling.

We pulled up to the valet and Edward put the car in park. Grabbing the back of my neck he leaned forward and gave me a passionate kiss, just as the valet was opening the door to help me out. Pulling back, with his hand cupping my face, he said in a low husky voice, "Bella, you're going home with me tonight." My heart skipped a beat at the sound of those words and once again my stomach started to flutter.

As Edward exited the car to come around and help me out I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, trying to gain control of my body, which clearly had a mind of its own. My lips were turned up in a smile and I licked them, tasting him on me before retreating from the car. Giving Edward my hand, he placed it on his arm and escorted me into the hotel.

We got to the ballroom in which the benefit was to take place in and Edward was immediately swarmed by people. Not having any idea what to do, I just stood there with him, silent, not wanting to speak out of turn or make a fool of myself. A tall middle-aged man, with dark hair and a lean build walked up to us.

"Peter, man, it's been too long!" Edward and Peter clasped each other in hug. "It's so good to see you again." Edward was charismatic and friendly and the respect that people clearly had for him was evident. I was in awe.

"I agree, we can't go this long without getting together again. But I'm really glad to be here tonight, I almost thought I wasn't going to make it. As you know Charlotte is in her last trimester. I tried to talk her into staying home, but she's stubborn and insisted on escorting me. I have all the hospitals in the surrounding area on alert in case anything happens. I love having connections." Peter glanced around and I followed his gaze, it landed on a beautiful woman talking to a group of people. She was clearly very pregnant. "Charlotte honey," he called over to her. She turned and smiled. "Come over here and say hello to Edward." Peter turned back toward us as she started walking our way. "Edward, you know, this is a cause that affects us all and we want to help out in any way we can. Homes for Heroes allows us to help families in dire need. We believe that it's our responsibility to support those who have been called upon to make the ultimate personal sacrifice — to protect and safeguard our country. This is just a small part of what we hope to do in the future."

"We are so proud to have you as a partner in this, personally and professionally." Edward paused for a second. "Peter," Edward said turning toward me and placing his arm around my waist. "This is my girlfriend, Bella." He leaned over and placed a kiss on my cheek. "Bella, I'd like you to meet Peter White, long time friend and supporter. His company are playing a really big role in this benefit."

I held out my hand to shake his, "It's so nice to meet you Mr. White."

Peter took my hand. "Please, call me Peter. It's such a pleasure to meet you and finally put a face with a name. Edward's description of you was spot on. You are indeed an enchanting woman. If I wasn't already a happily married man, Edward would have a fight on his hands. Speaking of happily married, Charlotte, my love, I was just telling Edward here how you refused to leave me alone tonight."

"Edward! Oh, we've missed you, you look absolutely handsome tonight, like always. How have you been?" Edward moved forward and gave Charlotte a gentle hug.

"Actually, Charlotte, I'm doing quite well. Work is great, as you can tell and I'm fitting into Seattle quite nicely. I've even made a few new friends. Speaking of, I'd like to introduce you to Bella, who has absolutely bewitched me."

"Is that so? And here I thought you'd be a confirmed bachelor for life. Glad to see someone finally showed you the way." Charlotte looked at me and smiled, moving forward she embraced me and whispered in my ear. " You must be an amazing woman to have affected our Edward this much. I'm so delighted to meet you."

We broke from the embrace, "I-I'm delighted to meet you as well, and although I can't attest to being amazing, I certainly do the best I can. Edward makes it very easy." I was completely astounded at the treatment I was getting. Peter and Charlotte were so accepting and inviting, the warmth I felt coming from them surprised me. How could anyone be so accepting without any confirmation of trust? Of course, Edward was the same way, never questioning, it's as if he just knew.

"I need a drink," Peter clasped his hand on Edwards back. "Edward, would you care to go with me to get drinks? I think we could all use one."

"Sure, I'd be happy to. Bella, what would you care for?"

"Red would be wonderful." Edward reached out and brushed the back of his fingers down my cheek, giving me a sweet smile.

"Red wine it is then. Charlotte?"

"Oh, a sparkling water for me please. Thank you Edward dear."

"It's my pleasure." Tipping his head toward us, he retreated with Peter to go and get the drinks.

EPOV

Peter and I made our way toward the bar that was set up in the ballroom, I noticed that he kept glancing at me, like I was some other person and he was trying to figure me out. It was oddly amusing. "Are you going to keep staring at me old man or are you going to say what's on your mind?"

"It's the way you are with her, I mean Bella. You're an entirely new person. I mean you're the same, yet not. Does it that make sense?"

"Actually, it makes perfect sense. I feel the same way. Bella's changed me, in the blink of an eye she's changed me. I've never felt this way before, never thought I could. I mean with Tanya, it was different; it was more material and less emotional. With Bella, she expects nothing and gives so much in return, and she doesn't even know it. She makes me want to be a better man." There weren't many people I could talk to this way, Emmett was one and Peter was the other. He never judged me, in all the years he knew me and my ways, he always let me ride out my own problems my way, letting me know if I needed someone, he was there. I'd had never discussed relationships with him, except for Tanya, and that was right after it happened. Since then I had kept my feelings pretty low key, playing the easy game, not allowing myself to get in any sort of predicament that would cause me excess drama or grief.

"I always knew you would eventually find the right woman, it was only a matter of time. You really care for her don't you?" The look on Peters face was what I expected, kind, thoughtful and understanding. I supposed it was because he had found the love of his life and knew what it was like to want so deeply, to need without reason. To feel like if they left you would only halfway exist. It came on so fast with Bella and I never questioned it, I just accepted. It never occurred to me to do things any other way. It always just seemed, right.

"You know Peter, I really do. I know it seems out of character and sudden, but Bella, she stirs something in me, to be honest she drives me completely crazy I want her so much. But it's more than that, I feel very protective of her, I want to take care of her and see that she never hurts again. I know part of it is her ex, what he did to her and put her through. That not all of it though. She's so strong and so capable, not everyone in her position would have made it through yet she did and come out the better for it. Bella refused to be the victim. It makes me proud and I am in such awe of her. She has so much more courage then I could ever dream of having." My head was spinning, I had thought about this stuff, long and hard. Putting it into words, however, it made it real, and it made me happy, happier then I thought I would ever feel about it.

"Edward"- Peter and I grabbed our drinks as he placed a hand on my shoulder -"that my dear friend, is called love." I stared at Peter dumb founded at the words he said, that I had refused to acknowledge sank in. I blinked a few times, trying to absorb that one small phrase. That my dear friend, is called love. Love, love?

Opening and closing my mouth a few times, my mouth not computing what my brain was trying to convey, I finally decided to say the only thing I could. "Peter, I think you may be right."

A wide grin spread across Peters face. "So, are you going to tell her?"

"Tell her, are you nuts? She would run the first chance she got. No, I think I'll save that for later, when she's ready."

"I really don't think you're giving her enough credit, she seems perfectly capable of handling it."

"Man, you have no idea, some of the things she has been through. We are still so new and at this point, my goal is not to frighten her away. I'm patient, I'll wait and when the time is right, I'll tell her. For now though, I think we better get these drinks back to our ladies."

On the way back to Bella, I got stopped by several people and had to make the obligatory small talk. Luckily for me I had two drinks in my hands so the excuse to get away quickly worked in my favor. We arrived back and Bella was in deep conversation with Charlotte and I couldn't be more pleased that they were getting along so well. Never having anyone to share my friends with had never bothered me before, but now that I did, I was thrilled that it was all working out and I hoped that there would be plenty more opportunities in the future for us to spend time with them.

Making my way to Bella's side I reached my hand in front of her, holding out her wine and bent my head down, kissing her neck just below her ear. I murmured softly, "Your wine, madam."

"That's quite a delivery service, you better watch out or I'll expect it to arrive that way every time." I nuzzled my nose along her neck before planting a small kiss and straightening up.

"It would be my pleasure." Giving her a wink, I tossed back the rest of my scotch and set my glass on the tray of a passing waiter. Out of the corner of my eye I saw Jessica heading our direction. Great, I knew this couldn't be avoided, she was my partner after all. I had just hoped I would have a little more time to enjoy myself before I had to subject myself to the misery of her company.

"Edward! I didn't know you were here already and I didn't know you were bringing a date, who is this enchanting...oh, Bella, it's YOU," Jessica sneered.

"Of course it's her, who else would it be?" I tried to keep the edge out of my voice, but the need to bite back and defend was very overwhelming.

"I knew you said you were dating or something, but I figured it would, you know, blow over?" Was she for real? What kind of person was so snotty and full of herself that she thought she had the right to treat someone this way.

I was seething with anger. I knew I had to remain calm and professional but what she had just said about Bella was inexcusable. She needed to know that this was not behavior that would be tolerated, ever. If she couldn't keep things on a professional level with me there were going to have to be some major changes made. Unluckily for her I had the power to make those changes. I moved in just a bit closed to Jessica and said in a low, sharp whisper, "We will talk about this later." Backing up I pasted a fake smile on my face and as politely as I could, spoke. "Excuse us, Jessica." I was completely in protective mode. Just before we turned, Jessica grabbed Bella by the elbow and yanked, trying to turn her back around. The red wine in Bella's glass tipped forward and spilled right down the front of Jessica's cream colored, too - short cocktail dress. The look on Jessica's face was priceless as she stood there, breasts heaving, covered in wine and practically bursting from her dress. She looked as if she were fixing to explode, she was so angry. I, on the other hand could not help but feel mirth as I spoke my next words, "As I said, excuse us, Jessica. It looks like you have a bit of a mess to clean up."

Jessica raised her voice, screeching, attracting the attention of some of the surrounding guests. I was mortified that she was unprofessional enough to cause such a scene, especially at such an important event. "You did that on purpose you little bitch! That's right Edward, go ahead, take the princess away. She doesn't have the guts to stand up for herself so you have to do it for her."

Bella stopped us dead in our tracks. I told myself I needed to see her reaction, see what she was going to say and then if I needed to, I would step in. Bella shook loose from my hold and turned around. I glanced at Peter, the look in my eyes saying, is Jessica completely insane? Peter just shook his head at me, astounded at her behavior.

With a low voice, Bella confronted her. "Jessica, I know you want Edward, it's blatantly obvious the way you flaunt yourself in front of him like some two bit hussy but I think I need to fill you in on a little secret." The look on Bella's face was serene and regal, I had never seen her look so sure about what she was saying.

"Edward, would date my dog before he would date you. You're not good enough for him, you never will be. And unless you want to cause an even bigger scene and make more of a spectacle of yourself, I suggest you turn around and walk away from my man. There's no room for you over here tonight." I had been proud of Bella before, but I had never been more proud then I was tonight. Partly because she was standing up for herself and partly because she had just acknowledged, in front of everyone my status in her life.I placed my arm around her waist and pulled her closer to my side, needing to feel her up against me.

Jessica hissed in a low voice, "Excuse me? Excuse me? How dare you! You have no right-"

Interrupting Jessica's fit, I spat out, "Actually, Jessica, she has every right. I may have to work with you, but I do not have to listen to you insult my girlfriend, so I suggest you take Bella's advice and leave. We will talk more about this on Monday... Bella?" I took her hands and raised it to my lips, placing a small kiss on her soft skin. "I do believe I owe you an apology. First, you are quite capable of defending your own honor. Second, I apologize for my co-workers appalling behavior. I can assure you it will never happen again." I raised my eyebrows looking up at Jessica as I made my statement. The look on her face was priceless, Jessica's jaw was dropped and her mouth was hanging wide open. She was astonished, I assumed at my insinuation to Bella on her new employment status. I could see the humiliation and embarrassment setting in.

Turning on her heel, Jessica stormed off into the crowd. There were whispered murmurs coming from everyone that had been in ear shot.

"Thank you Edward, you have no idea how much it means to hear you say that." She reached a hand up, brushing it along my face and smiled.

"Well, I have to say this has been the most fun I have ever had at one of these things and the night has only just begun. Bella, my dear, welcome to the family. You can defend my honor as well any time you like." Peter took Bella's hand and kissed it, making her smile. I saw a slight blush creep into her cheeks.

"Really, I am so sorry for that. I didn't mean to cause a scene or anything, it was just, she was-" Bella was fumbling over her words and her slight blushed turned crimson.

"Bella, you didn't say anything that we didn't want to say already. And I do have to say, well done, it's about time someone knocked Jessica down a few pegs. She's been on this road for way too long, thinking she can get away with treating people this way. It's amazing how two sided she is, one second she's all sweet and the next she spitting like a cat. It's been this way for weeks.

"Well, when you put it that way, I suppose all I can say is, you're welcome." Bella leaned forward and kissed me on the side of my mouth which wasn't necessarily a great idea. The affection she was outright giving me only made me burn for her more. I wanted her and all I could think about was getting out of here and taking her home.

Trying to distract myself I glanced over at the tables. "I think they're about ready to serve dinner, are you hungry?"

"Actually, Edward, I'm suddenly finding myself famished." I placed my hand on the small of her back and lead her toward the tables. We had assigned seating, but luckily, with the station being one of the main sponsors, I had the advantage of being able to pull some strings and managed to get Charlotte and Peter seats at our table. Joining us would also be Caius Marcellus, his wife Athenodora, Demetri McCamey and his wife Gianna and Jane and Alec Bright. They were all potential donors and I was counting on them being very generous with their checkbooks.

For the last five years we have gotten a group of local celebrities together and invited some of the most influential members of the community and surrounding areas. We also extended invitations to larger businesses, such as Peter's, who were once in the area and wanted to continue doing their part. A very small portion of the donations came from ticket sales, so wining and dining these people was very important. Last year we raised enough money to house 35 families and set them up to be comfortable for 6 months while they looked for jobs and got on their feet. To some it did not seem like much, but to those families, those 565 people, they had homes now. Homes that were not falling apart, that did not have drafts and leaks. They had a new start, something they could build on and be proud of.

Dinner went smoothly and the food was far and above par. The first course that was served were Scallops poached in coconut jus with Fennel. The one good thing about loving to cook was recognizing a great dish and the flavors of this one created a masterpiece that melted in my mouth. Salads came next, Bella and I both ordered the Caesar. The dressing was surprising mellow, yet satisfying. a far cry from the overly creamy, one-dimensional concoctions generally served in restaurants and salad bars. For the main course we were served a slow Roasted Kobe beef roulade that was juicy, tender and cooked to a perfect medium. Dessert was a sight to behold, The banana Tarte Tatin had scoops of coconut ice cream on top a layer of puff pastry and bananas, then covered with a warm buttered rum sauce. Bella took her first bite and her eyes closed as her lips wrapped around the spoon, a low moaning noise that was barely detectable was emitted from her throat. Under the table I was instantly hard.

Talk turned back toward the charity and Caius, feeling generous, wrote me a check right at the table instead of waiting for the silent auction that was to take place later on in the evening. His action caused every one else at the table to follow suit, even though Demetri's wife said they were still bidding. There was a beautiful painting that she had been eyeing in the catalog and she intended to have it. I had actually placed a silent bid myself, on a beautiful diamond and cultured pearl necklace. I hoped to give it to Bella later on down the road if I won. We wouldn't be here when the silent bids were tallied and completed so I didn't have to worry about Bella finding out about my little purchase. I had a feeling that if she found out I did that for her, she wouldn't be too happy.

The dance floor was starting to warm up with a few couples starting to dance and I excused myself from Bella and the other guests from the table for a few moments. I approached the Band that was hired for the night and made a request. I hoped to God this did not back fire. The evening was going so well, aside from the Jessica incident, and from the way Bella was reacting to everything I had a feeling It would be okay. Walking back to the table I stopped and spoke briefly to a few people, playing my part and being good host.

Not wanting to be away from Bella for too long I made my excuses and returned back to the table. I approached Bella and bowed, keeping my eyes leveled with hers. "So, my beautiful, feisty vixen, would you care to dance?" I reached out a hand for her to accept, hoping and praying she wouldn't turn me down. I knew how Bella felt about dancing. She felt she was a klutz and uncoordinated, I thought she was the most graceful thing that had ever walked the earth.

"Edward, you do realize that I'm wearing three inch heels right?"

"Bella, you're a beautiful dancer, trust me, I have first hand knowledge." A faint blush that I had come to love crept up on her cheeks. It seemed that I was always saying something to make her blush.

"Okay then, but don't say I didn't warn you, you're taking your life into your own hands here. I will not be held responsible for what happens to your feet." She looked at me sternly, so serious. I couldn't help but laugh.

"Remember what I said before? About needing the right partner? Trust me Bella, you're in very good hands." She reached up and placed her hand in mine, letting me help her up from her chair. I kissed her hand and put my arm around her as I lead her toward the dance floor. As we approached I looked at the lead singer, who had been waiting for my signal. As the previous song came to a close I swept Bella out onto the dance floor and held her in my arms. The next song started and as the opening notes came out of the speaker I felt Bella jump in my arms; she knew what they were singing.

I pulled Bella closer to me, nuzzling my cheek to hers as we danced. The words of the song transporting us to our own place.

I remember every look upon your face
The way you roll your eyes
The way you taste
You make it hard for breathing

'Cause when I close my eyes and drift away
I think of you and everything's okay
I'm finally now believing...

I was just about to pull back to look at Bella when I heard her soft voice in my ear,

"....That maybe it's true
That I can't live without you
Maybe two is better than one
There's so much time
To figure out the rest of my life
And you've already got me coming undone
And I'm thinking two is better than one."

She completely took my breath away. Her sweet voice was lingering in my ear, I could feel her breath on my neck and at that moment I knew without a shadow of a doubt that I was completely and irrevocably in love with this woman. I tilted my head to the side, leaving a trail of kisses until I got to the corner of her mouth. I could hear her breathing become heavier as I moved in, letting my lips linger over hers for only a second and then capturing hers in a searing kiss that heated me from the inside out. I knew where we were and that we were very obviously surrounded by people, but I didn't care; this was our moment, and for me it was a milestone in my life. Bella was no Tanya, Bella was wonderful, caring, unselfish, sexy as hell even though at times I was sure she had no clue, funny and completely irresistible. Bella was made for me and I wasn't ever going to let her go.

Staring into her eyes, mesmerized I took a leap of faith and placing my hand on her cheek, threading my fingers into her hair I murmured,"Je vous aime, non seulement pour ce qui vous êtes, mais pour ce qui je suis quand je suis avec vous."

Softly, almost in a whisper, Bella answered me and as she spoke, I could hear what I felt mirrored in her voice; longing, the need for something more. "Oh God, you speak french? Edward, please tell me you're ready to go because I don't think I can do this much longer. I need to be alone with you."

Relief poured through me, taking Bella's hand I led her off the dance floor and back into the crowd toward our table. We said our farewells to Peter and Charlotte, Bella making plans to visit with Charlotte as soon as she could, said good bye to the rest of the group and went to find out coats. I was on fire and desperate for her sole attention. If I couldn't say it so she could understand it, then I needed to show her what she meant to me.

As we got our coats from the coat check Bella turned to me, placing a hand on my arm. "Edward, I just wanted to tell you how much this evening has meant to me. Thank you, you made it perfect." A soft smile covered her face as she leaned over and placed a soft kiss on my lips before backing up to put her coat on. I held it out so she could put her arms in the sleeves and with her back still facing me and desire coursing through my body, I whispered in her ear.

"Bella, It's not over yet."

I really do love knowing what you all think. Reviews help me to grow, write better and think of things I never would have on my own. Ask me questions, leave me comments. Tell me what you liked, what you didn't, what would you change? Is there something you want to know? Something you want to see happen? I'm up for ideas, suggestions and constructive criticism. Thank you all for reading and following! I love you all!! xoxo -MB

Song Credit: Boys Like Girls and Taylor Swift - Two Is Better Than One