AnonySwan: Are you ready to party, Cullen?
AnonyCullen: More than you know it, bb.
AnonySwan: Well, let's not keep our readers waiting more than we have to, shall we?
AnonyCullen: All aboard!
AnonySwan: I'm on a boat bitch!
AnonyCullen: you just couldn't resist could you?
::AnonySwan smiles::
Disclaimer: you know what we don't own. sad face.
"Well if you told me you were drowning, I would not lend a hand.
I've seen your face before my friend, but I don't know if you know who I am.
Well I was there and I saw what you did, I saw it with my own two eyes.
So you can wipe off that grin, I know where you've been.
It's all been a pack of lies."
Phil Collins - In the Air Tonight
BPOV
Alice and I had spent nearly three hours rummaging through her and Cynthia's closets looking for the right attire to compliment the night. If finding the perfect dress in record time wasn't difficult enough, the invitation had specifically called for black and white attire only.
After many failed attempts, I finally managed to squeeze myself into an old designer dress from Alice's 'heavier' days as she had put it. Although her mentioning this didn't make me feel completely at ease, I realized an expensive dress bill didn't fit into my budget this week. Or hell ... ever.
I felt ridiculous, parading around Alice's room like a runway model for her to accessorize as she deemed fit. However, the dress she finally chose was gorgeous in its own right. The rich, chic Marc Jacobs boasted a delicate lace pattern across the bust, followed by an 'I really can't fucking breathe' waist line. Although I could barely move, I had to admit my figure looked more than flattering as I eyed myself in front of a full length mirror. Alice completed my outfit with a pair of Jimmy Choo black kitten heels and a simple diamond tear necklace. I opted out of letting her adorn my face with heavy make-up, instead I settled on a few swipes of mascara followed by a coat of pink hued lip gloss I found tossed in the bottom of my carryall bag, the same bag which had led to a rather heated tiff in the coffee shop.
Not to be outdone, Alice had chosen a startling white vintage Christian Dior. The crisp color of the material, along with the white Manolo Blahnik heels she had paired with it, complimented her bronzed skin wonderfully. Her soft, brown locks were piled in a messy bun, with a few stray tendrils falling into her eyes. Her eyes were dramatically dark, and her pout boasted the most bold shade of red I had ever seen. She was stunning and she knew it. Alice busied herself in front of the mirrors for most of the night before I managed to pull her out of the apartment.
My nerves got the best of me as we drove in Alice's tiny sports car to the marina. She had agreed to meet Jasper at the boat dock, and although technically this could have been considered a date with Jake, I tried to keep things as informal as possible, agreeing to meet up at the dock as well. Swallowing noisily, I fingered the invitation and took notice of the heavy, expensively printed paper.
The honour of your presence is requested at
the Mystic Pointe Marina for
The Las Mareas de York Gala
3575 Mystic Pointe Dr
Adventura, Florida
on Saturday, June 15th
for Cocktails and Hors d'oeuvres
at six o'clock in the evening
Black and White attire required
Pulling up to the dock, we waited in a long line of large SUVs, overly priced, pompous sports cars and stretch limos big enough to carry an entire sports team. My stomach tumbled within itself when I eyed the massive structure floating in the depths of the well lit cove. It was painted a gorgeous pearl white with the slightest bit of gold trimmings. 'Marea Pacífica' was scrawled in elegant blue tinted script on the port side of the yacht , which perfectly matched the royal blue carpet that adorned the dock. A sea of designer white and blacks flooded the boat ramp, the sounds of laughter, violin chords and the chiming of glass flutes filled my ears as a valet opened my door.
"Mademoiselle, welcome to Mystic Pointe. Allow me." the young valet politely offered his hand, smiling as he gently escorted me from the vehicle.
Alice's heels clinked against the pavement noisily as she nearly skipped her way to my side, offering up a slight amount of cash and her keys to the young man. "Drive her like you stole her," she laughed as she patted the backside of her small Porsche.
My nerves started to get the best of me again as we waited on the dock for our escorts of the evening. Alice was chirping away nearly a mile a minute, however I could only make out a few random coherent words, the rest all sounded like muffled jumbo. We stood for several more moments, however they felt slow and excruciating. Just when I thought I was about to make a fool of myself and get sick in front of Miami's elite, my holy savior graced us with his presence.
"Jake!" I exclaimed, throwing myself into his arms.
His smell, his smile, and the warmth of his body sent a calming sensation through my veins, instantly calming my nerves. Despite feeling so desperately out of place, Jacob grounded me. He reminded me of home; of cold nights by a warm fire, of a cup of hot cocoa after the first snow, and of hand knitted mittens on a chilly day. He was my sunshine, and right now my complete saving grace.
Pulling away from him, I took notice of his attire. He looked stunning in his black suit, the material nearly matching the color of his own hair. He was freshly shaven and if I was a betting woman, he probably had managed to smell as tempting as he looked. It was the best I had ever seen Jake look in the time I had known him. Granted Jake didn't normally look like some thrown out piece of yesterday's trash, but tonight I felt privileged to be tucked at his side.
"This really is something else," Jake breathed, his head gesturing towards the packed marina.
I started to respond to his comment, when a slight squealing sound interrupted my process. A flash of curled hair, white vintage material, tanned skin and red lipstick whizzed by me, running across the dock at record speed towards a black sedan.
Jake and I watched in awe as Alice flung herself into Jasper's arms, barely allotting him enough time to emerge himself from the backseat of the car. He returned her display of affection, showering her collar bone with kisses. If I hadn't known any better, I would have thought they had known each other for longer than two days.
"Who is that?" Jake leaned down to whisper in my ear, his warm breath fanning across my neck
It felt... nice.
"That is Jasper," I responded pointing in their direction. "Alice met him the other... uhm... night."
It felt horrible to lie to Jacob, but I couldn't muster the courage to explain to him. The man Alice was pouring herself over was none other than Miami's judge. My judge.
"Wow, they sure seem... comfortable with one another," he chuckled.
I smiled in return, looking from Jake to Jasper in his pinstripe black suit and matching white fedora hat. His cheeks were covered in Alice's crimson red lipstick, and he grinned wildly at her as he whispered against her ear, his smile broadening at each escaped giggle. For a second, I couldn't help but be slightly envious of their display. At one point, my life had been filled with warm kisses and hushed, welcomed whispers.
Alice finally managed to pry herself from Jasper, smoothing down her dress as she bounced her way back to us with Jasper in tow. Her lipstick was severely smeared, her once smooth waves now unruly, and she looked quite dazed, very un-Alice like.
"Bella, you remember Jasper."
I internally rolled my eyes. How could I forget? I mean, Jesus, he was only the one deciding how my marriage was going to end. Thank you for reminding me Alice, really.
Alice was no doubt giving me one hell of a stink-eye; almost as if she could read the thoughts bursting through my mind. I smiled a bit too sweetly in their direction, "Of course, how are you doing?"
"Very well; better than ever I'd say!" He replied while snaking his arm around Alice's tiny waist. She let out a slight squeal, playfully smacking his hand.
"Stop it, Judge. Don't make me sentence you to some jail time, I wouldn't want to cuff you."
"Don't make promises you can't keep, Alice," he cooed into her ear, taking the time to nip at her lobe.
Oh. My.God. If I had to deal with this all evening I might as well throw myself overboard. End my life now. Seriously, why must I continue to suffer?
Once again, for the second time in nearly only five minutes, my saving grace stepped in. Clearing his throat, Jake stepped forward, his eyebrows raised, giving the star- crossed lovers a subtle reminder they weren't alone.
"Oh, shit! I'm sorry, Jake! Where are my manners?" Alice shrieked.
"Probably with your dignity," I muttered under my breath.
Yet again, the stink-eye returned; bigger this time and a bit more menacing.
"Jacob Black, this is the utterly handsome, Jasper Whitlock," Alice giggled.
"I'm not sure about the utterly handsome part, but it's a pleasure, Jacob," Jasper said as he smiled at him, taking his palm firm in his hand.
A quizzical look appeared on Jacob's face, a look I was deathly afraid of.
Please don't figure it out Jake.
"You, too," Jacob said a bit questioningly. As if a light bulb had gone off inside that head of his, realization suddenly dawned on him as he released Jasper's hold.
"Oh, Judge Whitlock, correct?"
I groaned. Fuck.
He smiled, "Yes, that's correct. And I understand you work with the darling and beautiful, Bella and Alice's ever energetic sister, Cynthia."
"She is energetic, I'll give you that. They both are," Jacob joked, playfully giving me a tug at my side. Needless to say, I wasn't amused.
"You don't have to tell me twice," Jasper winked.
"Hey, Bella, isn't he your jud-," Jacob started to say before I successfully managed to cut him off.
"I think it's about time we head on the boat, don't you think?" I pushed, hoping to encourage everyone on board. I pleaded to Jake with my eyes, hoping he would understand.
"Oh, yes, yes!" Alice squealed. "I simply can't wait to get on this boat! Let's go!" She pulled Jasper's arm and led him towards the boat.
I sighed and looked at Jake. His eyebrows were cocked, a look of confusion spread across his face. "Later, I promise."
In typical Jacob fashion, he simply nodded and offered his arm to me. "Shall we?" Linking my arm within his, we followed Jasper and Alice up the dock, as I tried my best to drown out Alice's flirtatious giggles.
My breath hitched the moment we stepped foot onto the deck, an audible gasp literally escaping my throat. It was one of the most gorgeous sights I had ever seen. The polished, wood deck was littered with waiters, dressed to the tens in crisp white tux's with matching white gloves, busily running around the deck with silver plated trays. Guests were dressed in the most gorgeous black and white couture and there was even a small orchestra hidden in the corner left of the deck, their white suits perfectly mimicking the waiters. To add contrast, red velvet couches, along with matching red umbrellas and soft white lanterns were strategically placed around the deck, allowing luxurious places to sit and rest while others mingled.
Between the soft melodic tunes of the orchestra, the smell of the salt drifting from the sea, the feel of the softest breeze whispering across my skin, and Jacob tucked closely at my side, I couldn't help but start to enjoy myself. I felt giddy; a small smile creased my lips as I panned the deck soaking in all of the glorious sights and sounds exposed to me.
"Judge Whitlock!"
As fast I had allowed myself to escape to serenity, I was back in an instant, now standing in the realms of my personal hell. I knew that voice all too well. It was with me the night of the club, whispering the most dirty words my ears had ever stumbled upon. It was there in the courthouse, taunting me with it's smooth pompous demeanor. It was in the coffee house this morning, pushing me up against the glass counter, forcing unmistakable sensations to flood through my body. And here it was again. In a place where I thought I could actually escape.
I turned to see him lost amidst a sea of women, each model material and linked around his arms. Surprisingly, although a specific dress code had been stated, he was clad in a pair of rather expensive looking dark grey slacks, complete with a black colored shirt and a iced grey sports jacket. He donned the same shoes I had seen him in this morning at the coffee house, their black leather polished into a high shine. Covering his eyes, were the same pair of shades that had taunted me earlier and a Cheshire cat grin to boost. His hair was blowing in the wind wildly, lose strands sticking in every direction.
Numerous women paraded around him, running their hands across his chest and touching his face with their manicured nails. They laughed at his jokes, throwing their heads back giggling gleefully as he mingled with the crowds and sipped his champagne. One in particular was draped protectively over his chest, her face smothered into his shoulders. A quick glimpse of her perfectly formed face emitted a second audible gasp from my throat as I realized who she was. The same woman in the numerous photos hung above his bed. His bed. The same woman in the photos who wore an enormous glistening ring, the same ring I couldn't help but stare at. His wife.
She wore a white, short-cut mini, her bronzed skin glistening even in the pale moonlight. She was devastatingly beautiful in a sort of haunting way. I couldn't help but notice she complimented him perfectly; they looked as if they were made to fit together, from some type of beautiful architectural mold. Together, as a couple, they were nearly impossible to ignore. Even Jake seemed taken aback.
"It seems as though those two deserve each other." Jake acquiesced looking rather stern, more than likely remembering the fold of events from the previous nights. As if leaving Jake the other night at the club wasn't bad enough, here I was face to face yet again with the two of them, and not only them but his wife as well. I felt my stomach clench. I could not stand to look at the way he was with her. Looking at her so longingly, lovingly; holding her so possessively.
"Yes," I replied tight lipped, "it does."
"Judge Whitlock." He smiled, ignoring my presence completely, his arm letting go of the beautiful blonde's waist to shake Jasper's hand. "How wonderful of you to join us."
He didn't even look my way as I stood next to Jacob, desperately trying to disappear within his large frame. I couldn't have been sure, but a quizzical expression formed on Jasper's face; his eyebrows lifted in a slightly questioning stare, and his lips seemed to stitch themselves into a small grin.
"Mr. Cullen, I'd like for you to meet my guest, Alice Brandon," he said, the smile finally consuming his whole face, as he offered Alice to Edward.
Alice ignored his outstretched hand, turning towards me momentarily, flashing me a rather concerned glare. "What the fuck?" she mouthed, her eyes big as small discs.
Turning back towards him, she nosed the air. "We've met. I would say the pleasure is all mine, but unfortunately I'd be lying."
Edward chuckled. "Come now, this is a party. Surely you left your briefcase at home. Let's leave our discrepancies ashore for the evening, yes?"
I resisted the urge to roll my eyes at him. Who is this guy? One minute he's putting the moves on me and leading me to his bedroom, the next, he's the biggest dick in all of Miami; , and now he's buttering up to his own enemy.
Sensing a bit of tension lingering in the air, Jake stepped forward to introduce himself. "Jacob Black, editor of the Miami Times."
A smug grin adorned Edward's already beautiful face. "Yes, of course. Pleasure."
I watched the tendons in Jake's arms and neck strain as they eyed one other. A smile still played on Edward's face as a dark laugh escaped between his moistened lips. "I have apologies in order Mr. Black."
Jake's eyebrows drew together, "Excuse me?"
"You see," Edward paused as he drank from his glass, "I know we had a bit of a misunderstanding the other evening. It was simply a bad night for me, terrible even. It was never my intention to get rough or out of hand." He glanced over at me. I sucked in a slight breath, blurry memories flooding my brain. It was blatant his words were directed towards me, but surely he wasn't sorry for what had transpired? "I hope that we as well, can put aside our differences for the evening and enjoy ourselves."
On the spot, and obviously unsure how to deal with Edward's amicable mood, Jake just nodded in agreement, "Sure, sure. No problem, Mr. Cullen."
The infamous killer grin broke out across his face, "Please, call me Edward. Now off you go! Have a drink, enjoy the evening; feel free to indulge and let loose for the night." With that, not even acknowledging my presence, he turned on his heel and returned to a gaggle of women, awaiting his return.
I sighed and turned out towards the water, welcoming the fresh air. My head was still spinning as Jake joined my side, his hand delicately cradling my elbow. "Bells, I'm going to go mingle, maybe see if I can dig up a story or two for next week's columns. You in?" Jacob asked as his hand fell from my skin. He gave me his best 'puppy dog' pout. I only assumed he thought it was cute. Actually, it was.
Fucking hell Jake.
To be quite honest, I didn't want to leave his arms the entire night. That fucking playboy of an asshole was lingering around here with not only his wife, but two other fuck friends as well. Not only had he ignored my presence completely, his words were humiliating and obviously meant to get a rise out of me. Fucking prick. This certainly was not the best time to hinder around by myself, pre-divorce or not.
On the other hand, I had already managed to lead Jacob on more than I had wanted. I only invited him to the party simply because Alice stated she didn't think it would be appropriate for me to go solo. By Jacob's actions, I could only guess he thought this was his way in again, a somewhat apologetic gesture for what happened the other night at the club between us.
Damn you Alice.
"Sounds appetizing, but no. You go mingle, go have fun," I urged.
Jacob's face fell, and his smile dampened. "You sure? I could always stay out here with you."
"No, no I'll be fine. Go get us a killer story," I grinned up at him, straightening his tie before playfully punching him in the chest. I did my best to hide my obviously fake smile, praying it worked.
Jacob gave me one last pleading stare before giving my hand a reassuring pat. "You win. I'll be at the hors d'oeuvres table if you need anything. A guy's gotta eat." I laughed at him, watching as he disappeared into a sea of over priced Prada dresses and Christian Louboutins.
Realizing I looked like a bit of a loner standing alone in the crowd and not wanting to appear as a creepy lurker, I quickly fell into a stride walking past the party deck trying not to make eye contact; trying not to spot him. Without Jacob at my side, I suddenly felt clumsy in Alice's heels. I felt like a school girl playing dress up in her mother's work attire. I didn't belong here. I belonged back home in Forks, in sweat pants and a ratty t-shirt. What game was I trying to play with myself?
"Champagne for the lovely Mademoiselle?" a young waiter dressed in a sophisticated white suit asked while holding out a tray. After my horrendous hangover that I still seemed to be nursing days later, the idea of any type of alcohol inhabiting my system caused my stomach to take up its trapeze act it had so gratefully mastered the previous morning. However, I didn't want to be rude, and hell, it was free. I smiled politely and lifted a flute from the tray. The young waiter smiled and pressed on. As he turned his back to me, a small step ladder by the port side of the yacht caught my eye. Curiosity getting the best of me, I walked quickly to the ladder, looking for oncoming guests before heisting myself onto the first step.
After a few grunts, three almost near spills of my champagne, and one good dress re-adjustment, I managed to pull myself completely to the top of the deck. Directly in front of the staircase was a hot tub, the water glowing slightly purple. The lighting was softer here than the rest of the areas, even more beautiful than the party floor had been. The breeze was cooler, and the view was stunning. A thousand stars blazed brightly in the sky, dancing across the water. The moon shone brightly, giving me my own personal show. I breathed in deeply, my lungs filling with the sea's salt and fresh air. Although I had already established to myself that I didn't belong here, I couldn't help but smile. It was breathtaking.
The sound of footsteps on the ladder jolted me out of my reverie. I was trapped; the ladder being my only form of escape. I now knew what a rodent felt like to be caught in a cage.
I turned to see him escalating up the ladder, a champagne bottle in his open hand, a lit cigarette hanging off his lips. He scaled the ladder with ease, as if he'd climbed it before. His grey blazer was open, and his shirt was now unbuttoned. Even though the sun was fully set his Ray bans still covered his eyes.
Oh, just fucking great.
He noticed me immediately, and scowled in my direction. "You know the party is downstairs Mrs. Newton."
I shifted against the railing uneasily, determined to not let him get to me. "Same goes for you Mr. Cullen."
He nodded his head, pulling the cigarette away from his lips. "I don't need you of all people to tell me where a party is. I think I would know Miami a bit more than you. After all you're just an insignificant northern import."
I winced. Cullen - 1. Newton - 0.
I couldn't let him get the best of me, not after the malicious and rather unwelcome remarks he managed to slide into his conversation with Jake.
"You're not wearing the appropriate colors for this party,." I sniffed at him pointing my nose in the air. "The invitation clearly read black or white. I don't think grey was included. Are you color blind Mr. Cullen, or just that moronic?"
He took another drag from his cigarette and let out a short chortle as smoke billowed from his mouth. "I didn't get an invitation."
"So you 'Miami's own Playboy' are a party crasher? I'm appalled Mr. Cullen. What would your wife think, you bringing her to an uninvited party," I laughed at myself as I crossed my hands over my chest, trying to stand as defiant as possible. "Or better yet, what would those little lovers of yours think?"
He paused for a moment, giving me a queer stare.
Gotcha asshole.
"Don't be so quick, Mrs. Newton," he breathed as he stepped closer to me, pinning me against the rail. He leaned into my ear and I found my teeth automatically biting at my lip. I could smell the cigarette lingering on his breath. It wasn't that cheap Marlboro, gag me with a spoon smell; this was something more deep, woodsy, spiced... expensive. It mixed beautifully with the clean smell of his aftershave, and the musky smell of his skin.
Fuck he smelled good.
"The dress code is null and void when you are the one who sent out the invites, now isn't it? I think I can dress how I want. Do what I want or who I want for that matter."
I felt the blood drain from my face. My arms reached back to brace myself against the rail, trying to hold up my shaking legs that were quickly taking the form of jelly. He gave a stiff grin and took another drag finishing his cigarette, flicking it across my shoulder into the ocean. "Oh, and Mrs. Newton? My wife or my companions are none of your concern."
"This is y... your... your boat?" I breathed heavily, the words clumsily falling from my dry mouth.
"Mhmm," he expressed, his breath taunting my neck. "And from what I remember, you were the one who never received an invite. Normally trespassers are dealt with at the hands of security, but for you, I'll make an exception."
My breath hitched in my throat. My head was spinning, trying to focus on mute points, trying to ignore his heated breath tickling my skin. He pulled away slowly, turning to set the champagne bottle on a nearby table. "If grey is that much of an annoyance to you Mrs. Newton, then I really should take this off. Don't you agree?" he quipped as he rolled the jacket off his shoulders, letting it fall onto the deck, his grey shirt billowing in the wind.
Fuck me.
My lips were frozen, my words entangled in my throat. I stood there, leaning against the railing as he had left me, looking dumbfounded. He moved towards me again, his body coming with inches of mine. My fingers grasped tighter around the railing.
"This dress of yours," he said, his eyes running a course on the curvature of my body. "Is quite exquisite. You look...," his index finger reached out, touching the expensive material. "... tempting. No, more than that. Fucking edible."
My insides that had been ignited before were now engaging themselves in a full brush forest fire.
Sweet fucking edible Jesus.
"Marc Jacobs though, seems expensive for a penurious administrative assistant's budget, don't you agree? Or could it be you purchased this dress using my client's account?"
Gallons of water drenched my blazing forest fire immediately. Fury trembled through my body, hot footing through every open vein. "You presumptuous, self-absorbed asshole!" I shouted. "You have no right to talk to me like that, my husband's lawyer or not!" I shoved passed him, making sure to pound into his shoulder as I left.
"Mrs. Newton, I wouldn't walk away from me if I were you," he barked quickly walking towards the discarded jacket on the floor, and pulling out a cell phone. "Security is right downstairs; only a phone call away. I'm sure they'd love to haul you off to jail on account of trespassing. Such a pity it would be. Waste of a nice Marc Jacobs." He wiggled the cell phone in my direction, taunting me. His devious and manipulative grin was covering his whole face.
Mother fucker, he's the devil.
I imaged myself spending the night in a decrepit jail cell, Alice coming to bail me out in the morning, barking at me how lovely this act of stupidity was going to look in my files. I sighed in defeat, placing my free hand on my hip. He cast a triumphant grin, and returned to the table where the champagne bottle sit.
"Drink?"
"Thanks, but no thanks. I've got my own, it's a full glass," I said, holding the glass in his direction, trying my best to sound as arrogant as he.
He scoffed. "You got that from the waiter I'm assuming?"
I nodded my head in agreement, watching as he moved swiftly towards me, grabbing the flute from my hands and pouring the bubbly liquid over the boat's balcony. "It's Cristal; it's cheap. We purchase it so the peons partying on the deck below feel privileged. You can't attend a party in Miami without Cristal," he mused at himself, his eye roll evident even under his Ray-Bans.
My eyes were as big as tea saucers. I had never had Cristal before tonight, however I had seen it served in some of the more swanky, posh clubs downtown. From my recollection it wasn't in the least bit cheap. He had just tossed the liquid over the railing like water, without any signs of regret.
"Try this." He filled my glass full of another sparkling liquid, shoving it towards me with a sure hand. He watched as I took a sip, the bubbles tickling at my tongue. I've had my fair share of champagne before, but nothing quite like this. It was light, but still had an unmistakable depth. Actually it was pretty fucking amazing; the taste was a brilliant mix of wonderful on my palette. I quickly squelched the urge to moan out loud.
"It's okay," I shrugged nonchalantly.
His eyebrows perched up past his Rays as he snorted. "Okay? It's more than okay Mrs. Newton, it's a Heidsieck." He grinned in pleasure as he turned the bottle upwards taking a drink. I had to stifle a grin. At that moment he reminded me of the boys back home in Forks who drank Boones Farm straight from the glass bottle itself.
"If this is anything like your Charlotte Be-something sheets, I have no clue," I murmured feeling very insignificant once again.
"You know, for an assistant at a newspaper you are very callow."
I rolled my eyes in his direction, and took another sip of the champagne. The warm sensation was starting to flood over me and despite the displeasing company, my insides felt rather comfortable.
"Heidsieck..," he continued, ignoring my obvious eye rolls. "Or rather Shipwrecked Heidsieck came from the Heidsieck vineyard."
"Shipwrecked?"
"Yes, Shipwrecked," he said as he took another swig from the bottle. "Shipwrecked because the ship these bottles were being transported on wrecked off the coast of Finland in 1916. This particular bottle was made in 1907."
I looked down into the glass I held in my hand. My nose curled. Taking a slight sniff, I shrugged. It smelled decent and it surely didn't taste over a hundred years old.
"Two hundred bottles were recovered in 1997 when divers found them at sea."
I wanted to be annoyed by him, however between the gentle buzz from the champagne, and the remarkable story he seemed to be pulling from his ass, I couldn't help myself to be a little inquisitive. I was a sucker for tall tales.
"Oh, Mr. Cullen? If that little story you told is true, how did you manage to get your hands on one?" I asked, watching him take another swig.
"Six, not one. My father is a wine aficionado. He loves wine, he loves expensive wines. He has remarkable and uncanny tastes."
I took another sip out of my glass. "Just how expensive?"
He chuckled to himself. "Money isn't an issue."
My eyebrows raised heatedly. "I didn't ask that. I asked how much. An indigent administrative assistant would like to know."
He took a breath in, and puckered his lips making a loud smacking sound. "Two hundred and seventy five."
I couldn't help but snort, the un-lady like sound escaping my throat. My hand covered my mouth while my laughter continued. "Two hundred and seventy five dollars? That's it? Come on, that's expensive, but you act as if I couldn't purchase my own bottle. Actually, get your father on the line. I'd like to order one right now," I joked taking another sip of the liquid serum making me feel suddenly brave.
"Two hundred and seventy five thousand. Per bottle. A quarter of a million dollars per bottle Mrs. Newton."
Fuck.
Me.
He had six.
I suddenly felt the urge to hold the precious liquid cargo with both hands. My fingers started to tremble uncontrollably no matter how badly I tried to hold them still. The left over champagne sloshed against the side of the glass making me feel suddenly very light headed.
"Would you still like to call upon my father? I'm sure he would get quite the chuckle out of you wanting a bottle of Shipwrecked for two hundred and seventy dollars?" he laughed as he stepped next to me, his hands, along with the bottle dropping to his sides.
"N... n, no," I murmured, watching as he took the shaking glass from my hands, setting it on the balcony ledge.
He pressed in closer, his breath returning to my neck again. I could feel his girth resting against my hip bone. My mouth suddenly felt very dry, despite the amount of champagne I had been drinking. I tried to swallow without success.
"Sea sick Mrs. Newton? You look a little... blanch," he whispered into my ear.
The breeze picked up, sending his musky aroma over me once more. The slight warming sensation pooling between my legs sent me head first into a frenzied panic. Everything suddenly became more than crystal clear.
Mike is your husband. You are getting a divorce.
Edward is your soon to be ex-husband's lawyer.
You fucked Edward in his home, in his bed. In his wife's bed.
He will use this against you in court.
The shit is already piling up to your knees. Get out now before you drown in it.
He's going to make a fool of you, and worse yet, of Alice. It will all be your fault.
I turned quickly, shoving past him for the second time that night. Alice's borrowed heels felt heavy on my feet,; they clinked loudly against the over polished hardwood floor as I ran. Four more steps and I would be at the ladder, I'd be free from my cage.
One.
I felt a hand reach for my waist, fingers grabbing at the expensive, silken material.
Two.
Ripping sounds filtered into my ears.
FUCK! He ripped Alice's dress.
Three.
I turned on my heels, bracing myself to yell at him, to demand he apologize and pay for the dress he had just managed to ruin.
Four.
What I didn't brace myself for was my equilibrium to stumble over itself. Alice's expensive kitten heels caught against the grain of the deck and sent me flying into him. He staggered once before the back of his calves came into contact with the hot tub, both of us falling head first. The purplish hued water splashed over the side of tub, cascading down the deck, completely soaking the wooden floor.
I surfaced immediately, swiping my damp mess of hair out of my face. "The dress!" I cried in alarm, grabbing at the soaked material. "Shit! Dammit, it's ruined!"
"Relax, it's water. It'll dry. It's just a fucking dress," he said agitated as he surfaced behind me.
"It's not just a fucking dress. It's Alice's dress. I borrowed it from her to come tonight and... and it's not just the water, you ripped it!" I screamed my anger clearly displayed on my face.
He was kneeling in the water, his shirt clinging to him, his hair matted to his head in a messy sprawl. Water dripped from his Ray-Bans, running a line down his jaw. Any girl would say he was beautiful, down right gorgeous, but at this moment fury was starting to boil within me.
I felt the urge to be ignorant, to ruin something of his. Of course he didn't understand. He hadn't a care in the world. I, on the other hand, would have to work months just to pay Alice back for the dress, not to mention her ruined shoes that were scattered on the bottom of the hot tub. Who knows how much those cost and I'm sure Alice didn't want to walk around town in a pair of heels that smelled of chlorine.
In a sudden fit, I plucked the dark glasses from his head and hurled them over the balcony into the sea throwing with every ounce of strength I had. Pleasure ripped through me when I heard a familiar 'plunk'.
"You bitch," he growled at me, trying to stand in the water.
"You asshole!" I screamed back, my hands bearing down against his chest, knocking him back into the tub, more water flooding from its cavity.
"Jesus, you're a fucking bitch," he yelled, his voice seeming to waver for a slight second.
His eyes blazed with fury for a moment before he hurled himself across the hot tub forcing me against the tub wall. His mouth was on mine in an instant, kissing and nipping forcefully at my lips. His strong hands caged me against the smooth plastic liner, his right knee propped between my legs, the pressure nearly becoming too much.
A part of me wanted to scream, wanted to see Jacob come running to my rescue. I wanted nothing more but to have Edward Cullen be put in a place he deserved. Everything in the world I hated revolved around this man, and I hated every fiber of his being. I loathed his beautifully sculpted face and his tempting lips. The way his body seemed to press perfectly against mine in the water. The way his breath heaved in a disorderly motion pushing his chest lower to mine. The way his hands felt on either side of my head, pinning me to the edge of the tub. I hated him. Fucking hated him. Hated every fucking inch of him.
Well, not every inch.
My body, my poor body, was screaming at the top of it's lungs as well. It needed a release. I couldn't seem to remember the first time we had been together due to my drunken state. However, he had left me a lovely parting gift: a set of damned, aching ovaries. A spit-fire clue we had probably engaged in some amazing sex.
Oh, fuck it.
At that moment I didn't care about screaming to Jacob.
Or that I was still married to Mike.
Or that Tanya was his perfect wife.
Or his two lovers were still mingling on the deck below.
Or the fact that he was Edward Cullen, Mike's lawyer.
I wanted him.
I fucking wanted him.
"I thought you told me to never fuck with you," I whispered, my body starting to tremble below me.
His eyes lulled for a moment, then returned with a lust filled stare. "Absolutely correct, Mrs. Newton. I said never to fuck with me. I never said you couldn't fuck me."
My hands were on his body in an instant; fingers clawing at his shirt, nails scratching at his skin. My ears were pleased as they heard the buttons disassemble from the material and plunk into the water. He groaned as his shirt ripped against him, his skin blotchy from the rush of blood. "Fuck, Mrs. Newton."
I pressed against his body harder, pushing him off me completely and into the opposite wall of the tub. My legs found themselves wrapping around his hips, straddling him, and I groaned at the friction. My lips kissed down his jaw line, onto his bare shoulders, and nipped at his bare shoulders. He let out a low guttural groan before fisting Alice's dress, stretching the material, and pulling it down to expose my chest. My head lulled backwards as I felt his lips against my skin. His lips were warm, warmer than the tropical air.
I nearly came out of the water when I felt a splurge of cool liquid dribbling from my shoulders. I drew my head up to see him pouring the bottle of Heidsieck over me, the bubbling liquid cascading down between my breasts. His mouth was open, catching only half of the champagne, the other half mixing in with the tepid water. He loudly sucked the liquid from my skin, lapping at it desperately.
''That's a two hundred thousand dollar bottle of champagne you're wasting," I whispered breathlessly as he continued to pour.
"I said you were fucking edible," he groaned as he took a nipple into his mouth, tightly palming my other breast with his open hand. "Besides, I'm not wasting it. Two hundred thousand tastes so much better on you. Much better than straight from the bottle," he mumbled as nipped at the taut peak, causing me to buck involuntarily.
He continued to pour until the bottle ran empty, then tossed it over the tub, the bottle shattering into a thousand shards as it came into contact with the wooden floor. I gasped as he grabbed my hips and heaved me out of the tub, turning to set me on the edge, before kneeling back in the water. His smooth palms ran a trail up my legs, pushing up the hem of my dress, a thousand goose bumps littering my skin. He fingered my panties before pulling them off in a quick, fluid motion, tossing them onto the already littered deck.
"You interrupted me the other morning. It was quite rude," he said teasingly as he pressed his head against my thighs. "I fucking hate to be interrupted."
I quickly sucked in the sea air, feeling the delicious tickle of his hair against my inner thighs. My hands tried to find purchase on the side of the hot tub rather unsuccessfully; the slippery surfaced providing no adequate leverage.
"I'm going to finish what I started Mrs. Newton," he growled, wasting no time to plunge his tongue between my waiting folds.
Moans escaped passed my lips, as I allowed myself to get swept in the feel of him. I felt the spark inside of me ignite. "Yes..."
I smiled in pure ecstasy as he hummed against my sex, my hand reaching out to push him further into me. I craved more, I needed release. "Oh God, Edward..."
Closing my eyes, I lolled my head against my shoulders, my orgasm quickly on the brink. It started in my toes, slowly climbing up my calves, tickling across my thighs. Yes, almost there. The burning sensation was pure bliss.
"Eddie?"
What the...
"Are you up there?"
My eyes snapped open and neck jerked towards the stairs. Shit. I watched as Edward's head slowly surfaced a silent 'fuck' inaudible muttering from his lips.
"Yes dear, I'm up here," he said clearing his throat, his fingertips running across his glistening lips.
Dear? No. No, no, no.
Knowing nothing good would come of the situation, I tried to shove him away from me, using what little strength I had left in my legs. With a strong hand, he pushed me back down in the tub, his eyes seeming to plead for my stillness. Leaning in, he whispered in my ear, the heat of his breath washing over me. "Relax, Mrs. Newton."
Relax? How could I relax?
"Trust me."
I resisted the urge to snort. Trust him, who was he kidding?
I listened as his wife spoke to him, sweetly, yet forcefully. "Eddie, I know you come up here to clear your mind, but you need to come down. This is our party after all, I cannot entertain everyone by myself all evening. You know how I feel when you escape." I sensed some bitterness in her tone, but dismissed the idea of her being anything but towards him.
A devious smile danced across his face as he began to lower himself back down. "I'll be down," he responded. His eyes met mine as he continued to lap at my swollen lips.
Swallowing a groan, my teeth bit into my lower lip. What in the almighty fuck is he doing?
"Yes, well, do hurry," she clipped. "You need to make your toast before we eat."
"Mmm, yes, I am rather hungry. I do love eating out... on the boat. Give me a moment to feel out a few things," he said as he added two fingers inside of me. Biting down gently, teasingly against my clit, he curled his fingers inside of me, my hands having to cover my mouth in fear of releasing the moan that was quickly starting to expel itself from my body.
"A moment Edward, that's it." She demanded as I heard a distinct 'click-click' of heels, a tell-tale sign of her retreating.
I sighed, relief washed over me as I realized we hadn't been caught. My thoughts were running rampant and suddenly I felt silly. Of course she knew he was up here with someone. He's a fucking playboy for Christ's sake. I was just one of many who had fallen under his spell. Trying to break away from him, his free arm grasped at my wrist, his fingers curling deeper within me.
"Let go," he sternly whispered, as he peered up at me from my thighs.
To be honest, I couldn't tell you why I stayed. Couldn't tell you why I didn't remove myself from the situation, remove him from me. I couldn't move as hard as I tried,with his fingers curling so deliciously inside of me, taunting at my spot. I peaked instantly bucking into his palms, my juices flowing into the purple water of the tub. Grinning, he kept pumping his fingers slowly, watching in a pleased manner as he eased me from my orgasm.
Bringing himself up to my level, I watched as he lapped hungrily at his fingers, watching in awe as he licked away every last ounce of my wetness... of our mistaken tryst.
"Mmm, much better than any fucking shipwrecked bottle."
I was furious. How dare he do something like that while his wife was merely feet away? No matter how much of a dick he was, no woman deserved to be cheated on, reputation or not. Through my anger, guilt rushed over me. I was an accomplice to his cheating; I was just a tool he used when he wanted to fuel his fire. Yet again he proved that he could do whatever he desired, with whomever he wished and get away with it. For months I wallowed in my own self pity after I had suspected Mike of cheating, and now here I was, one of those women that I hated.
It ended tonight.
EPOV
I could smell her on me as I escaped below the deck to change into what I hoped was a drier set of clothing. To my disappointment, the only outfit I had successfully managed to bring aboard for the evening was my sports coat I had worn earlier in the evening, along with a pair of black, slender Dolce and Gabbana pants. My wet shoes would have to suffice, and I only prayed nobody would take the time to notice.
Changing into them quickly, I thought to bathe my hands to rinse away the remnants of my quick tryst. Bringing my fingers to my mouth, I tasted them again. No. Her taste, her scent, her heat would stay on me; cling to me as I put my arm around my wife and put on an act in front of her less than pleasurable guests.
Quickly running up the stairs, I smoothed my jacket with my fingers, trying desperately to rid the expensive material of a few undesired, wrinkled folds. I managed to plaster a fake smile on my face as I passed a few reporters, paparazzi, and even celebrities, all who undoubtedly seemed to be enjoying themselves.
''Eddie! There you are. You've been hiding from us!" Tanya cooed as I made my presence known on the dock.
Tangling my fingers with hers, palm against palm, she brought my hand towards her lips, pressing her tinted pout against my skin. A small snickered grin creased my face; fits of deceitful laughter burning to escape from my stomach. It had been the first sign of affection my wife had given me in months. How funny it was that here, in front of her ludicrous friends, her pink lips were brushing the sweet ample nectar of something my body had desired only moments ago.
Smiling sweetly, I untangled my fingers from hers, palming her face in my hands. "Tanya, dear, I haven't been hiding. I've just... well... you know I can't keep anything from you." I falsely smiled at her. "My appetite could not be kept at bay. I just had to have a taste of something sweet; I took my time to savour it. Don't be mad, dear."
"Mmm, Tanya dear. Not here in front of all our guests," I crooned, matching her tone exactly as I lightly pushed her away from me, turning to flash a more than ample smile to her friends. The women giggled in amusement, the men watched in an envied awe, no doubt wishing they could have traded me for a stand in.
"Edward, Tanya here was telling of us your endeavors," a horribly made up middle aged woman with a God awful display of makeup on her head sashayed towards me, pressing herself against my chest, nearly pushing Tanya from my grasp. I groaned, to which I only assumed she thought was delight. Her musky perfume enveloped me, and the scent of it mixed with the sea salt nearly made me lurch up the Heidsieck I had just consumed.
"Endeavors?" I snickered, while trying my best to hold my breath. "What endeavors could those be?"
As if on cue, I heard what only could be described as a sloshing sound behind me; the sound of very wet feet padding on equally wet wood. I heard the muffled laughter, and a few slight gasps, emit from the group before I could wean myself from the grotesque woman's grasp to catch a look. Turning slowly, I couldn't help but let out my own chuckle as I eyed a very drenched, very embarrassed, very angry Bella. As if on cue, the paparazzi swarmed her, the bright lights of their bulbs nearly seeming to blind her.
From beside me, Tanya let out a loud boisterous laugh. "Look what they dragged out from the sea, Edward!" she snickered, her contagious laugh causing the rest of the guests to follow in her suit. "How on earth was such a sea urchin let aboard anyhow? Security is seriously lacking this evening."
Bella stood as if she were a deer caught in headlights. Her once styled hair was matted to her head, water still occasionally dripping from the ends. A pair of ruined kitten heels hung from her index fingers and her dress clung to her body in loose wet shreds; the same dress I had only managed to rip moments ago.
"Mrs. Newton, I do believe it was specifically stated there was dress code while you are in attendance. It seems as though you failed to arise to the standards. Just because we are at sea does not mean you are allowed to take a swim, especially in your clothes." I snickered in her direction, her expression full of pain, anger, and no doubtfully hurt.
''My dress!" I heard from behind me, followed by the loud sound of clicking heels. "Bella, my dress! What did you do!?"
Alice brushed passed me, as did Jacob, rushing to her side. Alice fingered the material. A frown was plastered across her face and her eyebrows were set in heavy worry, however she remained quiet. Reaching for the shoes from Bella's hands, Jacob bent down to examine her legs, his tanned fingers clashing with her milky white skin. A heated flush of jealousy coursed through my body, my fists tightening, as I watched Jacob examine her, his palms massaging her calves gently.
"You're bleeding, Bella," he said as continued to kneel, taking her heel in his lap, his fingers continually running themselves over her skin.
Her eyes bore into mine and for a slight moment guilt over-ran the jealousy. She was bleeding, no doubt from my careless actions with the wine bottle. However, the sight of him bent before her, his head nearly inches from her heat angered me to no extent.
"Mrs. Newton was quite careless tonight," I barked. "She also trespassed where she wasn't permitted, managed to break a very expensive bottle of wine, and stumbled into a nearby water display might I add. She should consider herself lucky I haven't called security. My wife and I don't tolerate this type of behavior on our property."
Tanya snickered again at my side, pressing herself further into my chest. Leaning down, I planted a small kiss in the crown of her head, watching as Bella's face contorted from pure embarrassment to complete rage.
"Fuck your expensive bottle of wine, and fuck your expensive boat," Jake bellowed as he stood, grabbing Bella in his arms in one swift motion. Turning away from me, I watched as he carried her, the soft curves of her body completely disappearing in Jacob's large stance. I continued to watch as he made his way down the deck, padding along the blue carpeting until he reached the valet. She never looked back; never glanced once in my direction as he guided her into his well-used sedan and drove away, small puffs of burnt exhaust mingling within the night air.
Turning towards Alice, who had now taken a stance next to Jasper, his arms wrapped casually around her small frame, I snickered. "Next time you bring a friend along to one of my parties, think twice. While it is thoughtful of you to bring in someone of obvious lower class to a gala such as this, I don't appreciate it. And treating my yacht as a three-ringed flea circus is no way to relish in what should have been an enjoyable evening." I turned away noticing her face being to redden, her tiny fists balled tight at her side, as Jasper restrained her.
"You... bastard," Alice huffed, turning on her heels towards the dock.
Turning in my direction, Jasper shot me a menacing stare before following close to her heels. It was no doubt a warning, but for some reason I couldn't stand to contain myself.
"Oh, and by the way Ms. Brandon, see you in court."
Edward fucking Cullen always got the last word.
Phew! Is anyone out there as wet as Bella? Miami sure is hot!
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