Chapter 27:

Jacob POV:

"Honey, I'm home!" I shouted when I walked through the front door.

"Kitchen," she shouted back.

"Hey, what's up?"

Bella was sitting at the table cutting up vegetables on a cutting board and throwing them in a salad bowl. I walked over and kissed her. "See? I am being a good girl, and SITTING here to chop vegetables instead of standing up, aren't you proud?"

"Yes, I am," I said with a smile. I sat down at the table and grabbed a slice of cucumber and popped it in my mouth. "Aren't you supposed to ask me about my day?"

"Oh, I am so sorry! Hi Honey, how was your day? How's that?" Bella asked with a smile.

"Good, good. My day was great, thanks to your dad," I answered.

She looked up at me and asked, "Dad? What did he do?"

"Well, he co-signed the papers for Embry and me so we could buy the shop from Mr. Collins. Your husband is now officially a business owner!" I said excitedly.

She dropped her knife and just stared at me. "Bells? Did you hear me?"

Uh-oh. I could see the anger building. "YOU WHAT? You went and bought a business without even discussing it with me? I mean, I knew that you and Embry were saving money for it, but I didn't have any idea you were actually ready to buy it! You couldn't have possibly saved up that much money yet. What the hell, Jake? I'm your wife! You should have talked to me about this! And getting my dad involved?"

"Now wait! I didn't 'get your dad involved.' I told him that day we had lunch at the hospital that Embry and I were saving up for that shop, and that Mr. Collins had given us a price that was hard to refuse. HE'S the one that offered to co-sign. I told him I didn't want him to, that we wanted to do it on our own. But we're only 19, Bella! No one would have lent us the money. Your dad is the one that pointed that out and he was right. I hate that he had to do it, but I didn't want to wait!" I shouted. I stopped and took a deep breath then said, "Look, I have a family to support now. I'm sorry I didn't talk to you. You're right, I should have. I just wanted to surprise you."

"Well, I hate surprises!" she yelled at me.

"Well I know that now!" I yelled at her.

We sat there quietly. Then I said to her, "This is our first fight as a married couple." I smiled at her.

She smiled back then sighed. "I'm sorry, Jake. I am very proud of you. I know you didn't do this out of the blue. I know that you have been thinking about it, and if I know you like I think I do, you have probably been running the numbers over and over for weeks, trying to figure out a way to do this, and driving Embry crazy." He nodded and smiled. "But, Jake, now that we are married, I want to be included in your decisions. I want us to talk about things, OK? That's what married people do."

"You're right, babe. I'm sorry. I promise I will talk to you about all major decisions. Embry will be glad that I have someone else to talk to instead of him. And I have been talking to you – you knew what we wanted to do. I just should have told you about your dad co-signing. It happened kind of fast. Mr. Collins really wanted to make the deal now. His wife is bugging him to move to Florida before it gets cold again."

Bella picked up the knife and began slicing the cucumber again. I got up and walked over and squatted down in front of her. "Bells? Can we make up now?"

She smiled and nodded.

"Can you put down the knife first?" I asked her.

She laughed then turned toward me. She leaned over and kissed me. I pulled her into my arms and hugged her. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you," I said into her ear.

"I'm sorry I yelled at you like an old hag when you walked in all excited," she said back. Then she pulled back and kissed me again, this time slower and longer.

"Mmmm, I think I like this making up," I said against her lips.

"Me, too."

Just then, the timer on the oven went off. She pulled back and said, "Dinner's ready. Are you hungry?"

I smiled. "I'm hungry, all right. But I guess food will have to do for now."

She laughed and said, "It's good to see that some things haven't changed."

Bella POV:

The night before my mom left for Florida, I invited both her and Dad over for dinner. Jacob came home early so that he could cook on the grill. He did a great job grilling the chicken, and I threw together some fresh green beans that Emily had brought me from their garden, some baked potatoes, and strawberry shortcake for dessert.

We all sat around our little kitchen table and ate and talked. It was so much fun hosting our first dinner guests. I noticed how Mom and Dad were interacting with each other. They were laughing, teasing each other and finishing each other's sentences. It was very weird.

Jacob talked to Dad a little more about the shop. Dad met Jake and Embry at the shop that day before they went to the bank, and Mr. Collins gave them a tour. Dad said he was impressed with the shop. Mr. Collins was even leaving some equipment and tools there for them, so it was a pretty sweet deal. Jake told us that he and Embry were planning on moving in next week after everything was final at the bank. They were trying to decide on a name for the shop. They were thinking about J & E Auto Repair.

After dinner, Jacob cleared the table, but Mom insisted on washing the dishes, so Jacob dried and put away. Dad and I went out onto the porch to enjoy my new swing.

"Dad? Thanks for co-signing for Jake and Embry. That was really nice of you," I said.

"Oh, it was nothing. The boys are good for it. They're hard workers and they do a good job. They'll pay that loan off in no time," he said. I knew he didn't want to make a big deal out of it. That's just the way he is.

I smiled at him. "Yeah, I know. But they wouldn't have had the chance without you. For once just take the credit, OK?"

He chuckled and said, "OK. You're welcome. I'm glad I could help. Is that better?"

"Yes. Thank you," I answered.

We swung back and forth slowly, just enjoying the moment.

Finally, I decided I couldn't take it anymore. I turned to look at him and asked, "Dad? What's up with you and Mom?"

He looked over at me and said, "Why? What have you heard?"

"Dad! Come on. Mom told me about the divorce. She also told me that you two were friends, but is it more than that? Have you two been behaving yourselves, all alone, in that house . . ."

"I don't believe that is any of your business, daughter," he answered gruffly.

"Well, I want you to know that as much as I would love for you two to get back together, it scares me a little. I told her I couldn't stand to see you get hurt again."

He turned to look at me. "Look, Bella. I'm a big boy. You don't have to worry about me. Although, it's kind of nice to know that you do." He smiled at me and I smiled back. "I don't know where this thing with your mom is headed. It's too soon. She's going back to Florida to do what she has to do then she wants to come back here to Forks to see if there is anything between us. That's the plan right now, and that's all I really know."

I nodded. "I'm glad you are taking it slow. That's good." I looked over at him and said, "But I'm just warning you. Jake said he thought he ought to have a talk with you about no 'funny business' while Mom is staying there with you, all alone."

He laughed loud at that one and I joined in. That's when Mom opened the screen door and said, "Sounds like you two are having a good time out here."

Dad put his arm around me and squeezed. "Yep. This girl of ours is something else." Then he leaned over and kissed me on the head.

Mom looked at us and smiled. "She certainly is."

It was harder than I thought it would be to say good-bye to Mom. She promised to call me the minute she landed in Florida, and said she would keep me updated on what was going on. She hoped to be back in Forks before Thanksgiving. "I will definitely be back before this baby gets here," she promised.

I hoped so. I had a feeling I would need her around.

Jacob POV:

I took the afternoon off to go with Bella to see Carlisle. We were sitting outside his office waiting for him to see us. I reached down and took her hand and smiled at her. She looked so beautiful. I still had a hard time sometimes believing that she was really mine.

She looked at me and said, "What are thinking? You look pretty happy all of a sudden."

"Just thinking about you. That always makes me happy," I said with a smile.

Just then, Carlisle came around the corner and saw us sitting there. "Hello Bella, Jacob! Sorry to keep you waiting." He opened the office door, and said, "Please, come in."

We walked inside and I instantly remembered the last time I was here with Bella. After Edward . . . I shook my head and tried to shut that memory away.

Carlisle shut the door then said to Bella, "Why don't you have a seat on the exam table and I will take a quick look at you."

I helped Bella up onto the table then stepped to the side. Carlisle listened to her heart, took her blood pressure and her pulse. The he opened a drawer, took something out and said, "Now let's listen to the baby's heart, shall we?" He had Bella lay back then he slipped Bella's shirt up a little and held this thing on her stomach, then turned on this little box. All of a sudden, we heard a very fast thumping. I looked at Bella and took her hand. Her eyes were big as she listened.

"Hear that? That is a good, strong heartbeat," Carlisle said with a smile. "This baby is a fighter." We all listened for another minute, then he turned it off. He felt around her stomach with his hands and asked her a few questions about pain or spotting. Then he pulled her up into a sitting position.

"Bella, you and the baby went through quite a trauma, but I am happy to say that it looks like you both came through with flying colors." He smiled. "Just like I knew you would," he added. "I think you can resume all of your normal activities, but I would caution you to still take it somewhat easy. We don't really know what caused this in the first place, so I can't really rule out something happening again." He must have seen the worried look on our faces because he smiled and said, "I don't mean to scare you into thinking it WILL happen again, alright? I am just being cautious. Just don't go bungee jumping, or run any marathons. Use common sense, and I am sure you will be fine," he said then smiled.

"What about work? I am on my feet quite a bit," Bella asked.

"I think it should be fine. Just try to take a few more breaks to sit, and if you can, get someone else to do the heavy lifting. And the farther along you are, the more breaks you may need. Just listen to your body. It will tell you if you are doing too much," he answered. "I am also going to recommend you to an obstetrician. This isn't really my field of expertise, so to say, and I would feel better with you seeing someone who specializes in delivering babies." He walked over to his desk and picked up a piece of paper and handed to Bella. "Dr. Bailey is the best here in this hospital. I think you will like her," he said with a smile. "Any questions?"

I shook my head, and looked at Bella. "How soon should I see Dr. Bailey?" she asked.

"I think you should call and make an appointment right away to get acquainted. I have sent her a copy of your records, so she will be expecting you," he answered.

"OK," Bella said. "Carlisle, I don't know how to thank you for everything you have done. You saved my life . . . and my baby's life."

He smiled. "That what I do, Bella. That's why I love being a doctor. It makes being . . . well, what I am, a little easier."

Bella walked over to Carlisle and put her arms around him and hugged him and I noticed how he held her. He sincerely still cared about her like family. She pulled away and said quietly, "Thank you."

"You're welcome."

We walked out of the office and down the hall. I opened the door for her and reached down and took her hand as we walked across the parking lot to the truck. I opened the door for her, and before she could get in, I grabbed her into a hug. Then I pulled back and bent my head to put a kiss on her lips.

She smiled at me and said, "What was that for?"

"I love you, Mrs. Black. And I can't wait to get you home so I can show you just how much."

Bella POV:

The ride home from the hospital seemed so long. Suddenly we were both in a big hurry to get home.

Jake parked in front of the house and we both jumped out of the truck, and made our way to the front door. Jacob unlocked the door then turned to me. "We are going to do this the way we should have after the wedding." He scooped me up into his arms and kissed me, slowly and gently. Then he opened the door, walked through and closed it and locked it. He looked into my eyes and said softly, "Welcome home, Mrs. Black."

I smiled and kissed him. "I am so glad to be home, Mr. Black," I said as I kicked off my shoes and heard them hit the floor. He took a moment to step out of his shoes.

He walked down the hall to the bedroom and set me on my feet. He took my face in his hands and said, "Bella, I want to try to take this slow, but it won't be easy. I've taken way too many cold showers these last two weeks."

I smiled and knew exactly what he meant. I just wanted to rip his clothes off and attack him! But he was right. I nodded and said, "Me, too."

He bent his head and put his lips on mine and kissed me oh, so slowly, moving his lips over mine, then he teased me with his tongue and I opened to him. I wrapped my arms around his neck and melted into him. His warm hands traveled to rest on my hips, then slid them around behind me and up under my shirt. I loved the feeling of his hands on my skin.. He rubbed his hands up and down my back, and I buried mine in his hair.

He finally broke the kiss and pulled my shirt up and over my head. I shook out my hair, and he put his hands into my hair and combed through with his fingers. "I love your long hair, Bella," he said softly. He kissed me with his hands wrapped in my hair. I loved the feeling of his lips . . . his tongue gently caressing mine. It was intoxicating.

I finally broke away and pulled his shirt over his head. "I want to feel your skin," I said as I leaned forward to kiss him slowly on his chest, and run my hands over across his shoulders and down his arms. His hands were back on my hips and he leaned down and kissed my cheek, then made a trail of kisses down my throat. I could feel goose bumps pop up on my arms. I pushed myself closer to him, as he kissed my neck, nipping me with his teeth. As he reached around and unhooked my bra, a memory of that very first time popped into my head, of him trying so hard to work the hooks on my bra, but he was shaking so badly, he needed help. I smiled. I realized he didn't need my help any longer, as my bra slid down my arms until it fell to the floor.

I reached for his pants and pushed them down over his hips until they fell to the floor and he stepped out of them. He did the same for me. We stood there, completely naked. Nothing between us. There was nothing to hold us back any longer. He claimed my lips again, this time more urgently. My heart was beating faster, and I could feel the heat building between us. He gently pushed me back toward the bed and I quickly sat down and moved back so I was laying in the middle of the bed. He crawled toward me and hovered over me. I couldn't stand him being away from me, even for a second. I wanted to feel his lips on mine, his hands on my body . . . so I hooked my hand around his neck and pulled him down to me.

We kissed and touched and re-discovered each other. It felt like it had been so long, but it also felt brand new. We were man and wife now. We belonged only to each other for the rest of our lives. Every time he touched me, I was filled with new sensations. I was filled with excitement when I touched Jake and he would catch his breath and whisper my name. We finally hit that place where we found it hard to stay in control. I whispered to him, "Please, Jake, now!" He rolled me over onto my back and slid inside with such force I thought I would explode. We rode this new feeling of ecstasy until we both cried out and my body shook from my climax. As we lay there, clinging to each other, trying to catch our breath, Jacob whispered in my ear, "Happy Wedding Night, Bella."

I whispered back, "Happy Wedding Night, Jake."

We laid there wrapped in each other in the middle of our big, comfy bed . . . it was heavenly. Finally I looked over at him and said, "That was amazing. Did it feel different for you?" I asked.

He smiled. "Yeah, it did. More intense. I'm not sure how to describe it."

I leaned over and kissed him softly. "Whatever is was, I definitely liked it."

"Me, too," he answered with a kiss.

We spent time just laying there together, kissing and talking. He reached over and put his hand on my belly. "You know, Bella, I can see a small baby bump now when you stand up. Have you noticed?"

I nodded. "This morning I noticed that my pants are getting too tight around the waist. I guess I may have to call Alice soon and go shopping for maternity clothes."

He smiled. "OK, but don't let her buy you any of that fancy stuff she wears. I mean, it would look great, but it's just not you. I love you just the way you are," he said with a kiss.

"I promise," I said as I kissed him back. "As much as I hate to, I have to get up and use the bathroom. Don't go anywhere, OK?"

"I wouldn't think of it," he said with a smile.

I climbed out of bed and went across the hall to the bathroom. This is how our honeymoon should have been. I was glad we had the weekend to spend together. I guess we could squeeze a honeymoon into one weekend. It was better than none at all. I looked in the mirror before I went back. I brushed my hair and washed my hands and face. Then I smiled. Life is really good.

I opened the bathroom door and walked across the hall to the bedroom. I thought I saw Jake put his cell phone down on the bedside table. "Did someone call?" I asked. I was expecting a call from my mom when she landed in Florida.

Jake had propped himself against the pillows. "Just checking messages. I had one from some guy in Forks that wants to bring his car over to have me look at the brakes. Said he's a friend of Charlie's," he laughed. "I guess he's trying to help me get that loan paid off, huh?"

I crawled back into bed and Jake put his arms around me. "That's my dad," I said.

I actually felt a little sleepy, and the heat from Jake's body was really relaxing me. I fell asleep in no time.

Later, I woke up, and looked around. It was darker in the room, I was under the covers and Jake was gone. I sat up, holding the sheet to my chest, and looked at the clock and saw it was 7:30. I had slept for an hour. "Jake? Are you here?" I called out.

"Coming!" he answered and soon I heard him walking down the hall. He came into the bedroom carrying a big pizza box, some napkins and a couple of bottles of pop. He set the box on the bed, and the pop on the bedside table. "I wondered if you were awake yet. I ordered a pizza while you were in the bathroom. How about a picnic here in bed?"

I smiled. "Yay, pizza!" I clapped my hands like a little girl. When I did, the sheet fell down. "Oops, sorry," I said as I picked it back up.

He had thrown on a pair of basketball shorts, to answer the door and get the pizza. He stood there and laughed at me. "Bella, we're married. It's OK if I see your boobs. In fact, I've done more than just look at them," he said with a slow smile.

I'm sure I turned all shades of red. He reached down, picked up his t-shirt and tossed it to me. "Here, if that will make you feel better while we eat. But don't get used to it – I plan on taking if off again later," he said with a grin.

"I hope so," I said as I put the t-shirt on over my head and pulled it down. I loved wearing his t-shirts. They smelled like him, and I loved having that smell around me.

He crawled back onto the bed, kissed me then picked up the pizza box. "Your mom called while you were sleeping. She said to tell you that she made it home OK. I told her you would call her back tomorrow."

"OK, thanks," I answered. "Hurry, I'm starving," I said to him as he was opening the box.

He laughed as he handed me a piece of pizza and a napkin. "OK, woman, calm down!"

"I will let that slide today because I am so happy, but you know how I feel about you calling me 'woman.' "

"Yeah, yeah. I know. Go ahead. Smack me," he said holding out his arm.

So I did.

We ate pizza, drank pop, actually had a burping contest then rested back against the pillows. I turned my head and was staring at him. God, he's so gorgeous and strong and sexy . . .

"What?" Jake asked when he noticed me staring at him.

"Nothing. Just wondering if sex is like swimming. Do you have to wait an hour after eating so you don't get a cramp?" I asked him with a slow smile.

He burst out laughing then he reached over and took me in his arms, pressed me back against the mattress and said, "Well, let's find out, shall we?"

So we did. And, for the record, neither one of us got a cramp.