Okay, I wanted to give back to my readers. Something light, fluffy and filled with some citrusy good times (and some drama). I posted something in my Facebook group: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation and I got some great ideas. Clo came up with an idea that really captured my attention and I think I can finish it in five chapters. So, thank you to everyone who helped me brainstorm or offered me ideas. If I get a chance, I'll work on writing those, too, but they would lend themselves to a longer story. I wanted something short and sweet.

Now, none of this is mine. It never will be … I just like to play in the world that Stephenie Meyer created with Edward and Bella. I want an Edward. Just saying …

Up next, we'll hear from Bella and from her favorite brother … and I say that with a clear level of sarcasm, folks. Jasper is a douche-canoe of the highest order. So, on with it!

Chapter Three

BPOV

I woke up, smiling and sore. Delightfully sore from a full night of love making and dreams coming true. I sighed, reaching behind me, expecting to feel the warm, muscular body of Edward. Instead, I felt cold sheets. I sat up, frowning and upset that he was gone. I curled up, holding his pillow to my chest. I flopped back down and saw a paper on the nightstand. Picking it up, I saw Edward's neat block writing.

My dear Bella,

I hated to leave you this morning. I wanted nothing more than hold you and keep you forever. However, your car will not miraculously unbury itself from the snow. I'll be back as soon as possible, beautiful. Please, don't be upset with me. It killed me to leave you.

Thank you for the best Christmas present I'd ever received … I wasn't alone.

Yours,

Edward

Tears splashed onto the paper. My solitude was self-made, where his was due to his circumstances. His mom died and his father took his own life almost four years later, unable to cope with his wife's death. He didn't have anyone. I wiped my cheeks and got out of bed. I went poking in Edward's closet. He didn't have much. Most of his clothing was utilitarian, worn and stained with grease from his work. However, it smelled of his detergent and something that was inherently Edward. I found a long-sleeved Henley and a pair of boxer briefs. I put those on, along with a pair of wool socks. Padding to the kitchen, I made some coffee and went rooting around in his fridge and cupboards. He didn't have much and that made me sad. However, he did have bread, eggs, milk and syrup. I also found some bacon. I began making French toast, bacon and eggs.

As I was finishing up with breakfast, I heard the garage open and the loud beeping of the tow truck backing up. I made a plate for Edward, carrying it to the small dining table in the breakfast nook. I walked down the steps, seeing Edward and grimacing when I saw the damage to my car. The entire bottom was hanging off the car. Ugh. "Is it fixable?" I asked.

Edward looked up, tugging off his beanie and tossing a pair of sunglasses into the truck. "I can fix it for you, beautiful, but it won't be done today," he answered, a shy, crooked smile spreading over his face. "I have to really look at the damage, order the necessary parts and such."

"I definitely want you to fix it," I said. "I trust you, Edward."

"Thank you," he said, twisting his hat.

"I made breakfast," I murmured, walking down the stairs and grabbing his hand, which was frigidly cold, thanks to the winter wonderland outside. "You must be hungry."

"Breakfast?" he chuckled. I nodded and dragged him into his apartment. He smiled softly, seeing the meal I'd prepared. "It's been a long time since I had a home-cooked meal. I can't cook, really."

"What do you eat?" I asked, my brows shooting up.

"A lot of frozen meals and Emmett's girlfriend … no, she may be his fiancée now … she takes pity on me and cooks meals for me. Stuff that can be easily microwaved," he chuckled. "I have a handful of meals I can cook. Eggs, mac and cheese and pizza. FROZEN pizza! Not homemade. Too much work." He took off his coat, putting it on the couch and sat down at the table, tugging me onto his lap. We shared our meal, devouring everything I'd made. "This was delicious, Bella."

"I did the best I could with what you had," I frowned. "Your fridge and cupboards are pretty bare."

"Money is tight," he said. "Paying the bills, mortgage, electricity, water, and such for the garage come before food, clothes and cable. I have the bare minimum when it comes to internet, but only because I need it for the business."

"I can help you," I whispered.

"Bella, I appreciate it, but … I don't want you to feel sorry for me," he said, his voice tight. "I'm looking for an investor, but not a hand out."

"Then, let me be an investor," I said. His brow furrowed and I brushed his messy hair back. "Please?"

His mouth opened and he was going to answer, but there was a ruckus in the garage. "ISABELLA!" growled my brother, Jasper. "I KNOW YOU'RE HERE!"

"Fuck," I snapped. "Fucking Jasper."

"It was only a matter of time," Edward said sadly, caressing my cheeks and kissing me sweetly. He frowned. "You may want to get dressed. Your brother may have my head if he sees you in my clothes. I think it's sexy as fuck, but that sanctimonious prick, he thinks I'm less than human because I don't have trust fund."

"He said that?" I asked.

"He doesn't have to," he answered. "It's in how he acts, how he treats people. You can tell so much about a person's soul, their goodness, by how they treat the people around them. He always treats people like me, like we're scum. I see that now. I'm the dirt under his shoes."

"No, baby," I said, taking his face into my hands. His beard was thicker and his eyes were sad, but resigned.

The door burst open, causing the wood to splinter and Jasper scowled at him. Edward narrowed his eyes at my brother. "You're breaking into my home, Mr. Swan," Edward said, calm and angry. "You will pay for the damages."

Jasper growled, pulling all the cash out of his wallet and throwing it onto the floor. "There's your damages, Cullen. Now, get your grubby hands off my sister. You were supposed to be home last night, Isabella!"

"Car accident," I said, crossing my arms, not moving from Edward's lap. He had his hand around my waist. "I was cut off and my car spun out, ending up in a ditch. Edward brought me here. I was an anxious, exhausted mess by the time we got back to the garage. My car was buried and I just wanted to crash. And how did you find me?"

"In his bed?" Jasper sneered. "I found you using the GPS on your phone. Handy little contraption, to be honest."

"I'm a grown woman, Jasper," I snapped. "And Edward told me what you said to him after prom."

"It's the truth. He's not good enough for you," Jasper said, eyeing Edward and looking at him like he was a cockroach. "How much do you owe, Edward? When is this dump going to close?"

Edward moved me onto the chair and he stood up. "What do you have against me, Swan?" he growled. "I've done nothing to you."

"I don't want your hands, mouth, or cock anywhere near my sister," Jasper hissed. "She's better than you."

"ENOUGH!" I said, slamming my hand on the table. "This is my life. Jasper, you need to leave. I can't honestly stand the sight of you."

"You need to come home, Isabella," Jasper said, his voice angry.

"Why? So, I can hear how much you don't want me with Edward? How you betrayed me, telling Edward that I laughed at him at prom and ending something that could have been amazing before it even started," I snapped.

"Mom's dying," Jasper said coldly. "She begged for you to come home because she's dying, Isabella. She was very upset when your skanky ass didn't come home. No phone call. No email. No text. So, it was no surprise to find you here, sitting with this loser, wearing his ratty clothes and playing house with him. Get dressed, Isabella. Your mother is going to die and you're too busy getting fucked by a penniless, worthless loser." He looked at both us, with derision and duplicity. "I'll be outside in the Land Rover. You have five minutes, Isabella." He turned on his heel and left Edward's apartment.

I blinked, reeling from Jasper's harsh announcement. "Mom?" I cried. "No, she can't be … she's fine." Tears ran down my cheeks and I fell to my knees. Edward pulled me into his arms, holding me as I lost it, not believing what Jasper had said. I didn't believe him. I didn't even think he could be that cruel. "What if …? I can't lose my mom. I know I wasn't a great daughter, but …"

"Bella, breathe, love," Edward said, holding me in his arms and rocking me gently. "Your mother loves you."

"But …" I sniffled.

"Go to her, Bella," he whispered, kissing my temple.

"I don't want this to end," I said, looking at him. "I want this. I want you. I've always wanted you."

"We'll figure this out, beautiful," he replied, brushing my hair back. "Now, go to your mom. Besides, I know you'll be back. I have your car." I blushed and nodded, kissing his lips, tasting him and reveling in his sweetness, his strength. We got up and Edward handed me my bag. I ducked into the bathroom, changing into a pair of dress pants, some booties and a warm sweater. I tossed my hair up into a messy bun and brushed my teeth. I folded Edward's clothes, putting them on the counter. There was a quiet knock. I opened the door and Edward frowned, seeing the clothes I had on laying on the counter. "Keep them."

"No, I don't … they're yours. I just needed something to wear since I refused to put on my skirt and blouse from yesterday," I said. "I'm weird about putting dirty clothes."

"I don't have much, but I want you to have them," he whispered. "You looked sexy wearing my clothes." He kissed me and we broke apart when Jasper honked the horn of his SUV. He put his clothing into my bag, zipping it closed. He handed me a card. "My cell phone number. I'll understand if you don't want to call me …"

"I'll call," I vowed. "Thank you for last night and for everything. I'm also sorry for my brother. He's such an asshole. I hope he's lying about Mom."

"Jasper may be cruel, but he wouldn't lie about that," Edward said, hugging me tightly.

Another angry burst of honking forced me away. He kissed me again and I picked up my bag, my cell phone and slid on my coat. I left Edward's apartment, feeling lost and like part of my soul was in there with him. I looked at my damaged car, shaking my head and made my way out to Jasper's SUV. "I'm glad you came to your senses."

"Fuck you, asshole," I snapped. "You don't get to talk to me."

"Why not, little sis?" he purred.

"I know what you did," I growled. "You're cruel, mean and …" I trailed off, watching as Jasper pulled away from the Cullen Garage. "I can't believe you did that! Why would you do that?"

"Because I can," Jasper replied. "A man like Cullen? He's nothing but a parasite. He'd drain you dry. You were too good for him. You still are. Seeing you in that man's dingy garage, in his dirty, nasty clothes? It was disgusting, Isabella."

"You're disgusting," I spat. "We may share blood, parents, a last name, but we're not family. After today, you won't see me anymore. You caused me years of hurt, of loneliness. I hate you, Jasper. I will never forgive you." I looked out the window and watched as the town morphed to neighborhoods and then to the upscale, gated community where my parents lived after my dad had moved out of Chicago. We made our way to the house, which was decorated and looked like a crown jewel of the street. Once the car stopped, I got out of the SUV, grabbing my bag and heading inside. I made my way through the house until I reached the solarium. I saw a small woman sitting on the couch, her hand on her belly, which was swollen with child. Across from her, laying on the other couch was my mom. Her head was covered with a colorful scarf and she was a sickly gray color.

"The prodigal daughter returns," said the woman, her face pinched and her voice whiny.

"Alice," Mom chided. "Bella had her reasons for not coming home."

Alice got up, groaning as she waddled toward me. She looked at me, disdain in her ice-blue eyes. She stuck out her hand. "Alice Swan," she said coldly. I shook her hand and she grimaced. "You smell like smoke. It's not good for Charles Jr." She waddled away, muttering under her breath.

I blinked over to my mom, who struggled to sit up. "You look beautiful, Bella," she whispered. "You look happy."

"Mom," I said, moving to her and wrapping my arms around her frail body. "Why didn't you tell me? We spoke so many times …"

"I beat the cancer the first time," she said, taking my hands. "This time, it came back with a vengeance. I knew that this was my last Christmas. I wanted my family all together. Instead, I find out my husband had an affair, my son caused my daughter undue pain and my daughter-in-law is a pretentious bitch."

"Dad had an affair?" I asked. "Mom … I'll kill him. He's nothing to me, just like Jasper."

"Shhhh, pretty girl," Mom said, brushing my hair back. "Don't ostracize yourself from your family. You're angry at Jasper and your father, but when I'm gone, they'll all you have left." She smiled secretively, "Unless you have something you want to tell me."

EPOV

I felt Bella's absence almost immediately after she left. Not wanting to dwell on the fact she was at home, with her hateful brother, and possibly finding out that her mother may be dying, I decided to put her car up onto the rack. I pulled on my coveralls, turning on some music and began inspecting the damage to her Porsche. As I was working, the door opened to my garage. I saw Jasper standing in front of me again. He looked angry. "What do you want, asshole?" I asked.

"How much will it take for you to walk away from my sister?" Jasper growled, his hands clenched in fists. "I know you fucking loved her in high school. Or were you an opportunistic asshole, trying to sidle up to her so she could take you away from your hellacious life? Your dad owed so many people and that selfish bastard, when he killed himself, he took the fool's way out, leaving you with the mess to clean up." He pulled out his check book. "How much?"

"I won't accept your money," I said. "You can write a check, but it'll be torn up and thrown away. Bella is … she's everything good in this world."

"She's a whore," Jasper spat. "Do you want to know how she got to her position in her job? She fucked her way to the top. Spread her legs like the whore she is and now? She's Peter's whore."

"I don't believe you," I sneered. "I believed you before, when you said that Bella laughed at me after prom. Now? You're just being cruel and vindictive."

"Big word for someone who works with his hands," Jasper laughed. "Do you even know what it means?"

"It means for you to get the fuck out of my garage," I said, turning back to Bella's car.

"Okay, I tried to be a nice guy," Jasper said, grabbing my arm. "Leave Bella alone and I won't get the bank to repossess this pitiful excuse of a garage. You're not worthy of my sister. She should be with someone who can provide for her. Not a loser like you."

"What did I do to you? Why are you such a prick?" I asked, pulling my arm out his hold.

"Because I am," he answered, his smile evil. "You're fucked, Edward. And not by my sister. This place? Gone. You're homeless. You're done. Bella won't want you then." He reared back, punching me in the jaw. My head smacked the bumper of Bella's car and I fell onto the ground, my thoughts scrambled. I faintly heard him growl something into his phone. "He refused the bait. Take him out."

BPOV

"I can't believe that Jasper did that," Mom whispered. "I knew you cared about Edward. He was a sweet boy. I remembered him when he came over for prom. Very respectful, soft spoken and kind."

"Why would he do that?" I asked.

"Your brother is very much like your father in that regard," Mom said, rolling her eyes. "No money, no respect. And Edward's dad killing himself made him even lower than low." She frowned and her gray skin paled. "But, I think it's deeper than that."

"What do you mean?"

"Edward is the son of Carlisle and Esme Cullen, right?" Mom said. "Esme had a sister, Elizabeth." She looked at me, taking my hand in hers. "Charlie had the affair with Elizabeth."

"And Jasper knew?" I breathed.

"I think so," Mom sighed. "And Elizabeth? She worked for the janitorial service at your dad's office. He was attracted to her, but he was pissed off that he wanted someone who wasn't a trust fund baby. It didn't stop him. Their affair went on for years until she got sick, the same cancer that claimed Esme. The same thing that's claiming me … metastatic breast cancer."

"Mom," I cried. "I'm sorry I wasn't home … I'm so sorry …"

"Stop, baby girl," Mom chided. "Now that I know the truth, I understand." She squeezed my hand, her fingers skeletal and cold. "Do you love him?"

"I care for him. A lot," I said. "We're very different, and he's barely keeping his head above water with the garage. I offered to help."

"He won't take it," Mom chuckled.

"Then, I offered to be an investor," I whispered. "He didn't say no, but I don't want him to think that he owes me something. He was kind to me when I was dealing with the aftermath of my car accident and …" I sniffled, tears falling down my cheeks. "We … I want him. But, he thinks he's not good enough, thanks to Jasper and his deceased father."

I heard the door open and Jasper called out. "Ma?" he yelled. "Are you okay?"

"I'm in here with Bella," Mom replied, her voice quiet, but angry. Jasper strode in, clenching his hand and I saw bruised knuckles. "I'm so ashamed of you, Jasper Charles Swan. Why would you …?"

"You don't understand, Mom," he snapped. "Edward Cullen is a loser. Just like his old man and his entire loser family. But, he won't be a problem anymore. I've fixed everything. He knows the truth about Bella and he won't be interfering with our family again."

"What are you talking about?" I asked, glaring at my brother.

"How you got your job," Jasper snickered, his voice dark and evil. "How you spread your legs to fuck your way to the top." Mom reached for my hand and I helped her to her feet. I was so mad at what Jasper had said. Mom walked over to Jasper, slapping him across his face. "What the hell?"

"Get out of my house," she wheezed. "You are not my son. My son had a heart. He wouldn't do this to his sister. I can't believe you."

"But, I'm keeping the integrity of our family," Jasper said, his eyes wide. "Dad already did enough …"

"I'm done, Jasper," Mom said. "You were out of line. Take your wife and get out. I love you, but I'm ashamed of your behavior. I'm ashamed of how you acted and it will be a long time before I can forgive you."

"You don't have a long time," Jasper argued, his voice weak and sad.

"Well, you'll have to deal with that. You made your bed, son," Mom said, sitting down heavily. "I need time. I've forgiven your father, but his was a discretion that he atoned for. You cannot … you cannot treat people that way. I raised you better than this." She looked at me, squeezing my hand. "Baby girl, why don't you go back to Edward's garage and pick him up? He can spend Christmas with us. He deserves this. You deserve this. My car keys are in the kitchen."

"Thank you, Mom," I said, kissing her cheek. "I love you."

"I love you more, baby girl. I'm proud of you," she said, taking my hand and squeezing it weakly.

I grabbed her keys and drove to the garage. However, when I got there, I saw police officers and firemen. There was a bear of a man speaking to the cops and he sounded worried. Inside the garage, it was trashed, along with my car. There was puddle of blood near the bumper of my car. I ran over to the cops. "What happened?"

"Miss, we can't …" said one of the cops.

"Bullshit," I snapped. "What happened?"

"I called my boss and when he didn't answer, I thought he was either working or he was …" he looked at me, a coy grin on his face, but it fell quickly. "I wanted him to come over for dinner, to celebrate my engagement. But, when he wouldn't pick up, I decided to come over. That's when I saw the garage was trashed and Edward, unconscious and bleeding on the floor."

"Is he …?" I whispered.

"He's okay," the guy said. "Got a bit of a concussion and a few cracked ribs. Some guys really worked him over." He held out his hand, smiling warmly. "I'm Emmett, by the way. Emmett McCarty. I work with Edward along with my fiancée, Rose. We do the mechanic work and she runs the office."

"I'm Bella Swan. I went to high school with Edward. Congratulations about your engagement," I said. "Where was Edward taken?"

"The nearby hospital," Emmett said. "Can you drive?" I was shaking, but I was okay. "Are you done with me?"

"We may need you for further questioning. If anything was stolen," said the cop.

"There's not much to steal," Emmett said, his nose wrinkled. "His tools, mainly. Also, the damage to the cars, too. Is the Porsche yours?"

"I don't care about my car," I said. "I care about Edward." Emmett nodded and he walked to a small car. I got into my mom's car, following Emmett to the hospital.

While we walked to the front desk, Emmett took my hand. "Edward made me his medical proxy. With his mom's illness and his dad's mental illness, he wanted someone to keep his best interests in mind. I also know what happened." He gave me a glare.

"That wasn't me. That was my brother," I said. I pinched my nose and sighed. "My brother just found out that Edward's aunt had an affair with our father when he told Edward about what he perceived during prom and yeah, he's a douchebag."

"Your dad or your brother?" Emmett asked.

"Right now? They're both on my shit list," I snorted. "I wanted to get Edward and bring him over to my house for dinner. My mom knows all of it and she wanted to atone for the sins of her husband and son. I care for Edward, a great deal. I want to make this right …"

"I can see how much you care for him. But, my best friend and boss, he's been dealt a shit hand of cards. You hurt him, I hurt you," Emmett said, his eyes narrowed.

"I promise not to hurt him," I said. Emmett stared at me a bit longer before nodding his head. He walked up to the desk, asking for Edward Cullen. The nurse gave us directions and we went into a room where Edward was resting. His cheek was swollen, with a bruise on his temple. I sat down next to him, taking his hand and he opened his eyes. "I'm sorry, Edward. I'm so sorry."

EPOV

"It's not your fault, beautiful," I said, my voice raspy and tired. "Never your fault."

"But, it was my brother. I just know it," she hissed.

"At first, yes," I murmured. "He came and told me some pretty ugly things. He said things about you, about your job."

"None of that was true," she growled. "I would never …"

"I know, Bella," I said, kissing her knuckles and grimacing with each movement.

"Have you spoken to the cops?" Emmett asked, his arms crossed over his chest.

"Briefly, but the doctors were adamant I get a head CT because I lost consciousness," I answered. "They're coming back in a bit."

"What happened?" Bella asked, her eyes welling with tears.

"Jasper pretty much told me to stay away from you," I said. "He said he could make all of my financial woes go away, if I left you alone. I told him to fuck off." I threaded my fingers with hers, frowning as I saw the grime under my fingernails. Shaking my head, I continued. "He then threatened me, saying that he'd have the bank repossess my garage. He wanted to make me homeless and separate us permanently. He punched me and hit my head against the bumper of your car. I collapsed, woozy and confused. Jasper made a call. I don't know how long it was, but some guys came and they trashed the garage and beat me up, hitting me with a tire iron." I lifted the hospital gown, showing them the bruises all along my torso. "They stopped when I lost consciousness. I woke up when I was in the ambulance, being driven here."

Bella's eyes were wide and tears were streaming down her face. I wiped the tears away. "Don't cry, beautiful. You're too pretty to cry," I said.

"Everything is fucked up," she said, hugging me tightly and sobbing. I held her, looking at Emmett. He just nodded, backing out of the room. "I'm sorry, Edward. It's my fault. Everything is my fault."

"No, baby," I said.

She pulled back and nodded, her eyes still brimming with tears. "Your aunt, Elizabeth? She had an affair with my dad. Jasper found out and he's been … he's been making your life hell since he …"

"My mom's sister?" I asked. Bella sniffled, nodding slowly. "She died when I was a kid. The same cancer my mom had, but it wasn't as aggressive. She was alive much longer than my mom. But, it still killed her." I tried to remember my Aunt Liz. "I don't remember much about her. She lived in Chicago. Never married, but had a lot of boyfriends. She was beautiful, but not as beautiful as my mom, or as you."

"I want to do something to make this right," she said. Swallowing and taking my hand, she stared at me. "With everything that's happened, I'm taking time off from work. I've worked nonstop for eleven years. I'm calling my boss and taking FMLA. I need to be with my mom, help her during this time. I want to build something with you."

"I don't want you to lose your job because of me," I frowned.

"If I do, I'm okay," she said. "Edward, I think that after today, I'll be the sole heir of the Swan fortune. Jasper is in a shitload of trouble. With what you said, he could be implicated in what happened to you." She kissed my knuckles, which were bruised from the guys hitting my hands with the tire iron. "Edward … your hands …"

"I'm okay. Just bruised," I said. "I'm okay, Bella." She smiled sadly, kissing me sweetly and caressing my cheek that was sore from Jasper's punch. "I'm okay. I'm a survivor. I'm not going to give up like my dad."

"I never said you would," she said. "But, I want you to know that I will support you, as will my mom." She smirked. "She wanted to meet you. I was on my way to see you, to bring you over for Christmas dinner." She leaned her cheek against my shoulder and idly played with my fingers. "I'm sorry, Edward. So sorry. If only I hadn't been in your life … none of this would have happened."

"Neither would have last night," I said, flipping my hand and twining my hands with hers. "That was the most wonderful moment I'd ever had, Bella. Sharing my bed, my heart, my soul with you. It was everything I ever wanted and more." I traced her palm, reveling in its softness. "You were my dream, my wish. Last night was my dream come true. Kissing you on the night of prom was amazing, but making love to you? I want that. I want to make love to you, all the time, and show you how much I care for you. I don't have much, but I will do anything to make you happy."

"Just heal," she murmured. "Let me shoulder the load for a while. You've been carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, baby." I looked at her, seeing the sadness in her eyes and determination in her voice. "Please, Edward?"

"Okay," I nodded, kissing her forehead. As I did that, two cops came in and sat down, taking my statement. I didn't hesitate when I mentioned my visit from Jasper. Bella also said that Jasper had been kicked out of her house by her mother, going who knows where with his pregnant wife. The cop said that Jasper was arrested at a local bed and breakfast just outside the town for the assault against me. His cell phone was taken as evidence, showing a phone call to a burn phone, along with texts to his wife. I wasn't told anything after that, but the evidence was pretty damning.

Shortly after the cops' questioning, I was released from the hospital, but I couldn't go back to the garage. It was a crime scene. Bella said that I could go back to her house with her, but I didn't want to be there, either. Charlie was of the same mind as Jasper, that I was a bug, nothing significant.

"How about a compromise?" Bella suggested. "We have a small guest house on the property. You can stay there. I'll stay with you. I get why you don't want to be at the house. I do and I don't blame you, but you can't go home to the garage and I want to be near my mom."

"You can stay with us, Ed," Emmett suggested.

"You guys just got engaged. I don't want to encroach on your time," I said, shaking my head. "Thank you, but no thank you." I sighed, looking at Bella. "I'll stay in the guest house, temporarily."

"Okay," she smiled. "And prepared to be spoiled …"

"Bella," I growled.

"What? You're a rainbow of bruises. Your clothes are in the garage. You need clothes, unless you want to be naked, my personal love slave," Bella quipped, her brow arched.

"Clothes would be nice," I sighed. "But …"

"You're not paying me back. Years of Christmas and birthday presents," she snarled, her finger pointing at me. The doctor came in, wrapping my ribs and giving me a script for pain killers. When I signed my discharge papers and given a new sweatshirt from the hospital staff, I was cleared to go. Emmett stayed with me since I was a bit wobbly from the pain pill they gave me upon my arrival. Bella pulled up in an Audi SUV. Emmett helped me into the car and said he'd check on the garage tomorrow.

Bella drove me to the house, setting me up in the guest house. She kissed my lips, putting my feet up on the couch and handing me the remote. "I'm going to check on my mom, go to the pharmacy to pick up these pills and then be back in an hour. Do you want something to eat?"

I nodded. "I haven't eaten since breakfast," I said. "I'm sorry about ruining Christmas."

"Nonsense," she said, arching a brow. "Jasper did that. Not you." She took the script and keys. She squeaked, writing something down and handing it to me, along with a cordless phone. "Call me if you need anything, baby." She darted out of the guest house and I watched as she backed out of the driveway. I closed my eyes, trying to relax, but I felt on edge. I was sore as hell and my head hurt a lot. The door opened and I sat up, hissing in pain.

A small figure came into the house, dressed in a heavy winter coat and colorful scarf on her head. I tried to stand up. "No, no. You stay, sweetie," she said. She sat down, breathing heavily. Her skin was covered in sweat and her face was pale, almost translucent. She smiled, all sweet and warm, holding out her hand. "I'm Renee Swan and you love my daughter."

I took her tiny hand in mine, staring at her and shocked at her blunt statement. "Mrs. Swan, I … I've … um …"

She laughed, sounding a lot like Bella. "Sweetie, I know that you've had feelings for her for years," she said. "And I'm glad that she's opening up her heart." Her smile faded and she pulled her hand away. "She needs someone in her life. My husband, he's … he's cold and lost. He hasn't come to grips with my diagnosis. He's praying for a miracle that won't come." She sighed, looking at me. "And my son, Jasper … I'm so sorry for what happened between you and Bella because of his anger. He's hurt you in more ways than one, with separating you and Bella and now with this attack."

"Mrs. Swan, you have no control over Jasper," I said.

"No, but I raised him to be a good man, not this hateful, spiteful thing who wanted to …" she trailed off, coughing. "Edward, I'm not going to be around much longer. I can feel my body giving out. I wanted to see my daughter, but for her to deal with the pain of what her brother did." She took my hand and smiled softly. "Love her, Edward. Give her the love she deserves, she craves. I gave her everything I could. My daughter is more like me, with a good heart and tender soul. She had her father's head for business, but my compassion."

"But, what if I'm not good enough," I asked.

"You are, sweetie," she said, moving to sit next to me. "You captured Bella's attention. She's very particular in who she lets in, Edward. I saw something between the two of you in high school, that night at prom. I was surprised that I didn't see you again after that night, but knowing what happened, I understand why." She weaved her arm through mine, leaning her head on my shoulder. "I'm sorry the pain my family has caused yours."

"It's not your fault, Mrs. Swan," I said, putting a blanket over her legs. "Is there anything that I can do for you?"

"No, Edward," she chuckled. "I just wanted to check on you." She traced the bruise on my jaw. "I can see that Bella has settled you in and she's undoubtedly going to do everything she can to make it up to you."

"She doesn't have to do anything," I said. "I just want her. Plain and simple. You must be tired, Mrs. Swan."

"Call me Renee, Edward," she murmured.

"Do you want me to help you back to the house?" I asked. She nodded. I helped her to her feet and made our way to the main house. Inside, I ran into Bella's father, a cold man with a calculating stare.

"Charles," Renee said, her voice taking on an icy tone. "This is Edward. He's staying with us in the guest house with Bella for the time being. His garage was broken into and …"

"I know who he is," Charles said, looking at me and how I was holding Renee protectively, despite my injuries. He blinked slowly at me, his expression softening. "Thank you for helping my Rennie back to the house. She was determined to meet you. When Bella said that you were staying with us, she wouldn't go to bed until she met you." He held out his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, son." I awkwardly shook his hand, not trusting him.

"I'm, um, going back to the guest house. I'm really sore and tired," I said.

"Tomorrow, we're having Christmas dinner, Edward," Renee chirped, wagging her finger at me. "My baby girl is home and she's brought home a handsome young man with her. We need to celebrate, even if it's a day late." I blushed and nodded, leaving them and making my way back to the guest house. I sat down heavily on the couch, which was more comfortable than my bed. Laying back, I covered my body with the blanket and closed my eyes, the warmth of the house and subtle scent of sandalwood calming me.

BPOV

I found Edward sleeping on the couch, his quiet snores filling the living room. I put my bag along with some donated clothes from my father for Edward in the bedroom. I also put his pills in the bathroom. I changed into a pair of yoga pants along with his Henley he'd given me this morning. I sat down next to him, brushing his hair back and he sighed. I traced his jaw, that was now covered in a thicker beard. It hid the bruises on his face, but I could still see the damage. He blinked his eyes open. The green was bleary and unfocused. "Hey, baby," I said. "I have some food for you."

"I really want to shower. I smell like hospital and …" he wrinkled his nose.

"The bedroom is just through the door and the bathroom is the second door on the left. Take as long as you need," I said. He smiled softly, getting up stiffly and walking awkwardly to the bedroom. I reheated the meal and made him a plate. I padded to the bedroom, poking my head into the bathroom. Edward was leaning against wall in the shower. His back, sides and hips were covered in bruises. I gasped. He looked up at me, turning off the water and stepping out of the shower stall. "Edward …"

"I'm okay, beautiful," he said, wrapping a towel around his waist. "I'm sore and bruised, but I'm alive." He wrinkled his nose. "But, I don't know what I'm going to change into."

"I can help with that," I said, darting into the bedroom and swiping a pair of sleep pants, brand new boxer briefs and a sweatshirt. "Here."

"Calvins," he said, holding the plastic wrapped boxers.

"They were a present to Jasper, but since he turned out to be a felon, we figured you'd need them more than him," I quipped. He gave me a look, arching a brow. "What? It's true!"

"You got your brother boxer briefs for Christmas," he snorted, grimacing as he laughed. "Ouch. Having cracked ribs and laughing is not a good combination." He opened the package, tugging on the boxer briefs under the towel along with the sleep pants. He carried the sweatshirt and took my hand, leading us back to the bedroom. He saw the meal I'd made for him. "Thank you, beautiful."

"You need to eat," I said, guiding him to the bed. I settled next to him and we shared the plate I'd made. When we were done, I got his pain pills. He took them without complaining with water and laying down on the bed, still shirtless. "I'm sorry, baby."

"Don't apologize, Bella," he said, pulling me on his chest, on the opposite side from his cracked ribs. "It's not your fault. I have the girl of my dreams in my arms. Now that I have you? I'm not letting you go."

The next morning, I woke up early and Edward was still asleep. I watched him and smiled tenderly. I kissed his jaw and got out of bed, picking up my cell phone. I should be heading back to Chicago and I wasn't looking forward to the phone call I was about to make with Peter, my boss. I sighed and snuck out of the bedroom, curling up on the couch. I found Peter's number on my phone. Pressing down on his contact information, I held the phone to my ear.

"Swan! Are you almost done with that proposal?" he barked. "Meetings tomorrow."

"I can't, Peter," I said. "My mom, she's very, very sick." I sniffled and looked at the house. "She's dying."

"Oh, Bella," he whispered. "When did you find out?"

"My brother, who is an asshole, just announced it to me," I grumbled. "I was in a car accident on Christmas Eve. Someone who I cared for in high school worked for a garage and rescued me. I ended up staying the night with him and my brother told me that my mom was dying. No tact, nothing. I thought he was lying, but my mom is dying. She's got breast cancer and I don't know how long she's going to …" Tears fell down my cheeks and my grief began to sink in. Edward must have heard me. He came into the living room and pulled me onto his lap, groaning quietly as his ribs were tweaked. He held me tightly as I cried. He gently took the phone from me, tucking me close.

"Hello? Yes, I'm Edward. Bella's very upset and understandably so," Edward said smoothly. He listened, his lips pressed to my forehead and he enfolded me in his arms. "Okay, sir. Um, Peter. I'll tell her and … Thank you." He hung up the phone and cradled me in his embrace. I cried, clinging to him and my heart shattering at what the future held. "I'm here, beautiful. I'll always be here," he whispered. "Let it out, baby."

I don't know how long I cried, but when I stopped, my head was hurting and my eyes felt like they had sandpaper on my eyelids. "I'm sorry," I croaked.

"Stop apologizing, beautiful," he chided. "You're dealing with a lot of shit. I cried a lot, too, when I found out about my mom's diagnosis. Granted, I did it in my room, alone. I didn't want my mom to know that I was scared about losing her and my dad to see how sad I was. I had to be strong for them."

"What did Peter say?" I asked, running my fingers through his chest hair. Most of it was covered by the tight bindings from the doctor, but the soft downy fuzz at the top of his chest was still accessible.

"You take the time that you need," he said. "He is worried about the presentation, but family always comes first. Your job is safe and that if you need anything, he's just a phone call away."

"He said that?" I squeaked. "Peter, he's chained to his job. I don't even know if he has a family."

"I don't either, but he was worried about you, Bella," Edward said. "Regardless, he said to focus on your family."

I bit my lip, nodding slowly. "At some point, I will need to go back to Chicago. I'll need to get my clothes and shit. Will you come with me?"

"Of course, Bella," he answered. "My garage is kind of closed for the time being with it being a crime scene and all." He gave me a wry grin and I frowned. "Hey, none of that. Like you, I haven't any time off. Yes, the loss of income sucks, but … I'll deal."

"I was serious about being an investor in your garage, Edward," I said. "Or, even if you wanted to move your business elsewhere … I'll …"

"Let's just get through dinner with your parents, Bella. Then, we'll cross the bridge of my garage, your job and the future. I meant it when I said that I'm not going anywhere, but one step at a time, beautiful," he said, smiling sweetly. "Look up."

I did and I saw a sprig of mistletoe. "You know what this means, Edward," I said, looking at him and wanting nothing more than strip off his clothes and make him mine again. He just kissed me, his lips soft and eager against mine. It was beautiful and perfect, making me breathless. "Each time you do that … it brings back memories, good memories."

"We've been granted a second chance, Bella. I'm not going to squander it," he said. "Now, I want to cuddle with my girlfriend."

"Girlfriend?" I giggled.

"I know it's childish," he blushed.

"No! I like it," I said. "I like being yours."

"I like being yours, too," he said, grinning crookedly. "I'd pick you up, but the doctor said no heavy lifting for at least eight weeks. You're not heavy, but you're over my five-pound limit. I want to have more fun with this whole mistletoe thing, kissing my girl." I got up, offering him my hand and we went back to bed, cuddling and kissing each other, relishing in our second chance.

A/N: Yeah, Jasper's a first-class douche. He was totally fun to write, but I hate him. Charlie, while a philanderer, is trying to make amends. We're going to have one more chapter after this, wrapping up the drama with Jasper and having Edward and Bella go back to Chicago. Will she try to convince him to stay or will she move back to her home town?

Thank you for reading! Leave me some!