Disclaimer- Stephenie still owns the usual suspects.
I own my original characters and original story.
*This parallels chapters 53 and 54 of V&V 'Iron Man & Safely Home' and 'Quiet Comfort & Perfect Words'. Please read those chapters of V&V before reading this one.
Enjoy!
******************************************LRM********************************************************
Chapter 53&54 – Some Peace of Mind for the Jet-Lagged
I think I was finally coming to understand the term 'in the eye of the storm'. The whirlwind trip to Cannes had been just that. In short, I was happy to be back in London.
Jasper had heard about my radio interview, but not because it had been publicized. He'd heard about it from the studio.
"They aren't going to say anything to you directly Edward. Sal's assistant Ryan called me instead. They don't want to run the risk of pissing you off." Jasper stated in an amused tone.
"What did he say?" I asked, although I really didn't care. I'd been pushing myself to finish my scenes, and I was tired.
"He just wanted to give us a friendly reminder that when you go to interviews set up by the studio, you are, in effect, representing them."
"So this is because I said fuck during the radio interview." I mused, beginning to lose my patience with this bullshit.
"Yes, although I don't understand why it's a big deal. This hasn't even been reported in the U.S. and no one, aside from Simon, cares about it in Europe." Jasper continued. "Actually, I heard that Simon got in trouble with his bosses for cornering you like that.
I shrugged, although Jasper couldn't see me over the phone. I was making a concerted effort to let this roll off my back.
"He's popular, he'll get away with it." I answered.
"I'm sure you're right." Jasper agreed.
-LRM—
"She's dead?" I asked in disbelief.
Bella nodded, "Yeah. Evidently she got impatient waiting to cross the street and was hit by a city bus a few hours ago." She answered. "The weirdest part was that the bus had one of Emmett's underwear ads on the side."
"Oh my God Bella, you are kidding." I said, shocked.
"Nope."
"Well, I guess I wouldn't have wished death on her, I mean she was already in a lot of trouble, I figured that would be enough of a payback. But Bella, you have to admit that the underwear ad makes this pretty fucking funny." I chuckled.
"I suppose it is funny." She said as she attempted a smile.
"Bella, what's bothering you?" I asked.
"Don't get me wrong, I despised Geri Chance with every fiber of my being, but when I heard this tonight, I didn't feel vindicated or satisfied in any way, I just felt a little empty." She admitted. "Somewhere out there, somebody, even if it's only one person, is mourning her death. I can't help but have compassion for them."
She never ceases to amaze me.
"Oh Bella, just one of the many reasons I love you, your forgiving nature." I sighed. "You're a very good person Bella, even if you refuse to see it."
"Right back at ya, Mister Movie Star." She finally smiled.
She's too good for me..
"So how's the filming going?" she asked brightly.
"Very well. At the rate we're progressing, my scenes could be completed in just a few days."
"You're kidding!" She squealed.
"I'm hoping to be back with you very soon baby."
I only wish I knew exactly when that was.
"Oh Edward, that news made my day." She admitted happily.
"Keep your fingers crossed." I smiled.
-LRM-
I was worried about my girl. The anniversary of her mother's death was Monday, and I still didn't know if I'd make it back in time. I didn't mention the possibility to her, knowing it would be worse to build up her hopes, only to have them dashed at the last minute.
Thankfully she would be spending the weekend with her Dad. He'd take care of her whether or not I was able to make it.
On set, we continued to stay ahead of schedule. Sometimes I felt as if fate was finally giving Bella and me a break by helping me return to her sooner.
She was constantly on my mind, which may explain, in part, what happened to me on Friday night.
'Edward, come on, we have to hurry.' Bella smiled as she took my hand, pulling me toward the trees behind Charlie's house.
I didn't answer, I just smiled and followed.
'Faster silly' she laughed.
Suddenly the scene changed, and Bella and I were pushing our way through a crowd of people. Fans and paps grabbed at me, holding me back. Try as I might to keep my grip on Bella's hand, the force of the crowd became too strong.
'Bella, no.' I shouted as her hand slipped from mine.
I could still see her as she drifted further and further from me. I tried to reach her, but she was too far away. She turned her head to face me, a terrified look on her face.
'Bella, wait...' I called as I pushed through the ever-thickening crowd.
'Edward, help me' She shouted, her voice faint over the din of the crowd. A moment later, I lost sight of her.
'Bella, no' I shouted.
I pushed through the crowd, moving forward until I couldn't move any more.
'Where are you Bella?' I shouted, my steps slowing. It felt as if I was running through wet cement. My movements became ever slower, until I couldn't take another step. Exhausted, I bent at the waist, grasping my knees and shutting my eyes, as I tried to catch my breath.
When I opened my eyes again, I was back in the forest. The crowd of people had vanished. I looked at the path ahead of me, and noticed something, or someone, lying there. I used the last of my energy to make my way over to it.
As I drew near, I realized to my horror that it was the still form of my beautiful girl lying there, yellow carnations strewn across the ground beside her. 'Bella' I sobbed as I sank to my knees…
"Wake up Mr. Cullen' said a deep masculine voice. "Mr. Cullen. Edward. Wake up. You're having a nightmare sir."
Sidney?
Nightmare?
I forced my eyes open, and found Sidney looking down at me, a worried expression on his face. After sitting up, I looked around in an effort to get my bearings.
I was in my hotel room in London. "What?" I looked at Sidney questioningly.
"Sir, I was in the kitchen and heard you shouting. I thought someone had broken into the room." Sidney explained.
I scrubbed my face with my shaking hands.
Only a dream. Not real. Only a dream.
I let out a heavy sigh and looked at Sidney gratefully. "Thanks man. I think I've been working too hard." I said, trying to play off the fact that I was freaking the fuck out.
Sidney just gave me a serious look and nodded once, before exiting the room.
I lay in the bed for another fifteen minutes trying to calm my breathing. Even though I knew it had only been a nightmare, without being able to hold Bella safe in my arms, my mind started to run amok with worry. Even after my shower, I still hadn't completely calmed. I looked at the clock and realized that it was still Friday night at home. Just as I reached for my cell to dial Bella, my phone rang.
I looked at the screen, taking a deep breath.
Bella
If I didn't want her to worry, I needed to do one hell of an acting job. Two more deep breaths, and I answered.
"Hello sweetheart, did you have a nice evening with your Dad?" I asked.
"We went to the movies."
My God it was good to hear her voice.
Just a dream.
"Ah, and what did you see?"
"Iron Man 2. As usual, Robert Downey Jr. did not disappoint." She answered, obviously trying to make me jealous.
I'll play along.
"Is that a fact?" I responded. "Should I be worried about your admiration of Mr. Downey?"
"Absolutely not." She responded with a giggle. "I'm afraid that you're the only man that will ever receive my admiration along with my undying devotion Mister Movie Star."
I sighed. "I already knew that, but it's always good to hear."
"Do you want to go on skype?" She asked.
Huh?
"At Charlie's?"
"Yes, he broke down and purchased a wireless router and a laptop, so he could carry his computer around the house."
I logged onto skype as she continued.
"He still has the old desktop dinosaur though. Between you and me, I think he's been taking the laptop in the kitchen to look up different fish recipes. Charlie getting experimental in the kitchen can only lead to disaster. I have to admit it has me worried." She joked.
"Maybe the Forks fire department should be put on alert." I answered with a laugh.
"Good idea." She responded just before appearing on my screen.
She was a vision. All my worries evaporated as soon as I saw her beautiful smile.
"Hello fiancé." She teased.
"Same to you my love." I said with a wink "When will Rose and Emmett arrive?"
"I would assume sometime around noon tomorrow. They have to start their Pre Cana classes at two o'clock."
"Will we have to do that also?" I asked.
I'd been so busy working; I hadn't had time to think about much else.
"I was going to speak with Father Pat on Sunday, but I'm assuming that it's required. Are you okay with that?" She asked with a hint of nervousness.
"Of course Bella, I want to marry you in your church. Whatever is required of me, I will do."
"Sometimes you are too good to be true." She smiled.
"Get used to it Miss Swan, you're going to have me around for a long time." I grinned.
"I'm counting on that." She whispered.
I paused as I thought about the upcoming anniversary. "Sweetheart, what are your plans for Monday."
"Um, Rose has to work on Monday, so she and Emmett are returning home Sunday afternoon." She sighed. "Lou is coming to pick me up after my visit to the cemetery on Monday evening." She whispered. "I want to spend as much time as possible there before I have to go home."
"Once again, I'm not with you on a day when you need me." I wished I could know for sure whether I'd make it back.
"Don't worry about it Edward. Even when I'm through with school, you won't be able to be with me all the time. There are some days when your film schedule is not going to fit in with something I need to do, and that's okay."
I nodded, still sad. "Does it get any easier now that seven years has gone by?"
"Not easier. I can't think about that day, it's too difficult. But I can think about my Mom without breaking down in tears. So, not easier, just different." She answered in a quiet voice.
We chatted a while longer about what we'd do when I got back.
"Bella, I know graduation isn't until mid-June, but would you come to L.A. and attend the MTV movie awards with me?"
"When is it?" She questioned.
"June 6th. I'm up for two awards." I smiled, hoping she'd agree to go.
She pretended to be deep in thought. "I guess so. Which awards?"
"Um, Best Male Performance for Time Stands Still." I answered.
"Oh Edward, that's wonderful, I hope you win." She said enthusiastically. She thought for a moment. "Didn't you say two awards?"
I nodded.
Please don't make me say the other one.
"What's the other one?" She tilted her head to the side, waiting for my answer.
"Uh, globalsuperstar." I mumbled.
"What was that?" She asked with a laugh, "And why do I get the impression you don't want me to know?"
I sighed in exasperation. "Glo-bal-su-per-star" I answered, pronouncing each syllable loudly.
She snickered. "My fiancé, the Global Superstar…ooohhhh." She teased. "If you win, will it go to your head? " She asked, still teasing. "Maybe I'll need to ride in a separate car so there will be enough room for you and your ego." She laughed out loud then.
"Ha ha Miss Swan." I smirked. "I hope I don't win. I mean, how do you accept an award for that? It's just bizarre."
She continued to chuckle until it was time for me to leave.
-LRM-
It was Saturday evening.
I died today.
Expired. Assumed room temperature. Shuffled off this mortal coil. Passed on. Bit the dust. Breathed my last. Gave up the ghost. Went to meet my Maker.
Well, actually not me per se, but my character in The Harvest of Avarice was now dead. We'd filmed the death scene earlier today. After completing it, I discovered what a strange sense of humor Hal had.
In celebration of my 'death', we were knocking off work at a decent time tonight. Hal had ordered in a lavish dinner for the entire cast and crew. He'd even had a portion of the soundstage decorated to look like a funeral parlor and the wait staff dressed as Victorian undertakers.
I'd have expected this from someone like Tim Burton or Wes Craven.
Before I left for the evening, Hal pulled me aside. "The scenes we filmed today were perfect Edward. You've done an amazing job."
"Thanks Hal, but I didn't do it alone."
"Don't fool yourself Edward. As great as this story is, the people will be flocking to the theatres in droves because of your performance." He answered confidently.
I just shook my head in response.
Hal chuckled. "I thought I'd let you know that once we finish the scene tomorrow night, you are free to go."
My eyes shot open in surprise. "You wouldn't shit me would you?" I asked warily, almost too afraid to hope.
Hal laughed. "No Edward. Barring any unforeseen problems, we should be close to wrapping your scenes by this time tomorrow."
I knew I was grinning from ear to ear. "I can't tell you how happy that makes me Hal."
"We'll still have some reshoots, but we'll deal with those in California next month." He grinned "I also expect you to attend the wrap party in L.A. around the same time."
"I'll be there." I was ecstatic. My chances of making it back to Bella on Monday were getting better and better.
The nightmare returned again that night, although it was an abbreviated version of the first one. I woke up sweating, but didn't scream this time. I was certain that all the long hours and anxiety caused by being so far from Bella had finally taken a toll on my sanity.
I needed a rest.
-LRM—
"Alec, call Jasper and let him know I was able to fly back today. I'll give you a call on Tuesday about my upcoming schedule." I said in a rush as I grabbed my bag, heading for the door.
We had completed my final scene in the middle of the night. Sidney and I had reservations on the first flight to Seattle leaving that morning. I had called Lou as soon as our flight was booked. He was going to pick me up from the airport, driving me straight to Forks.
Deciding to surprise Bella with my arrival, I sent her a text on my way to the airport.
.
Beautiful-
Unfortunately, my schedule today makes it impossible to skype.
I've already left the hotel. Very busy day ahead, but I promise I will speak with you this evening.
I love you more than words can say.
-Edward
-LRM—
My departure from England must have taken the media by surprise. I did not see one pap on my way through Heathrow. However, a couple of fans recognized me when I had to go through security, and I was certain that photos or video of me would be on the internet soon. I also knew that, because of what day it was, my beautiful sad girl wouldn't be surfing the net to see them.
When I was finally on board the plane, I relaxed.
It was during times like this that I wished I could sleep on airplanes. The most I had ever been able to achieve were cat naps. Because of the nightmares, I hadn't had a decent sleep in days.
I was going to be in shitty shape by the time I landed.
For the first couple of hours, I listened to my ipod or read. Sidney wasn't much of a conversationalist. After trying to draw him out repeatedly over the last couple of months, I finally came to realize that his lack of response wasn't personal. I noticed that he would interact just like anyone else when we were in the hotel suite, however out in public, he was all business.
Protecting me was his number one priority. He didn't want to get sidetracked with meaningless chit chat during the times when he needed to stay alert. I had grown to appreciate that over these last few weeks.
After breakfast, I reclined my seat and put up the privacy dividers, deciding to watch a movie. I laughed when I saw that Pirate Radio was one of the options. Unable to resist the reminder of movie night with Bella, I settled back to watch it.
The smile that had broken out on my face at the thought of Bella, remained there as I thought about being with her again in just a few hours.
-LRM—
When we touched down in Seattle, my adrenaline kicked in one more time, helping me navigate customs and security with ease.
As instructed, Lou was waiting for us when we landed. We wasted no time dropping Sidney, before heading to Forks. I couldn't sleep in the car; I was too excited.
Not much longer until I can hold Bella in my arms again.
As we passed the 'Welcome to Forks' sign, I started to tense, my body coiled, ready to spring. Lou drove straight to the cemetery. As we pulled in, I noticed the Chief's truck parked just inside, and then noticed that he was leaning against it. As soon as we parked, I exited the car and I hurried over to him. The look of surprise on Charlie's face was almost comical, but as I got closer, his surprised expression changed into a welcoming smile.
As soon as I reached him, he shook my hand. "Glad to see you back Edward. This is just what she needs, I think." He grinned and pointed up the path.
"She's just beyond that grouping of trees." He watched me as I began to walk up the path. "Oh, and Edward." He called.
I stopped and turned to face him.
"I'll wait at the house." He said.
I nodded and waved before turning again, anxious to see my girl.
As soon as I neared the trees, there she was, standing in the path, staring at me in shock.
I couldn't stop the smile that spread across my face at the sight of her. The woman I'd longed for and missed for weeks was almost close enough to touch. She started to move slowly toward me then, and when there were only a few feet left between us, she launched herself into my arms. I held onto her for dear life, burying my face in her hair, inhaling her sweet scent as she shed happy tears.
For the first time in weeks, I could relax.
After a few very emotional moments, she looked up at me through her tears. "Oh Edward."
"I know." I murmured as I held her, never wanting to let go.
As we stood there, I glanced around, curious as to which grave belonged to Bella's mother. "Would it be alright, I mean" I hesitated as I cleared my throat. "Bella, may I meet your Mother?"
She seemed to understand what I was asking as she took my hand and led me over to a grave. It had a simple grey stone, with a cherub resting on top.
Bella immediately sat down on the grass, pulling me down beside her. I sat there feeling awkward, never having sat on a grave before.
Bella, noticing my reaction, surprised me by crawling into my lap, and kissing me firmly on the lips. The action soothed my overworked nerves. She placed her hands on my shoulders as she spoke, "Now, if by any chance she was able to see that, she knows how much you mean to me." She smiled.
I smiled sadly in return before turning to look at the gravestone.
Renee Louise Swan
January 24, 1962 - May 17, 2003
Beloved daughter, sister, mother and wife
Rest in perfect peace, gentle soul
She rubbed my arm. "It's ironic that Forks became her final resting place. She never liked this town" Bella said in almost a whisper. "She didn't want to stay, and Charlie didn't want to leave." She sighed. "Stupid reason to get divorced isn't it?"
I nodded.
"I loved her with all my heart Edward, but I've discovered that I'll never be like her. Our time apart has taught me that. Once we're married, I don't want to spend a single night apart." She wrapped her arms around me, and laid her head on my shoulder. "I don't care if you're filming on the moon, I want to be with you." She whispered. "My home will be wherever you are."
I ducked my head down to see her face. "I love you so much Bella" I murmured as my lips met hers. I wanted her so badly, that within seconds, I completely forgot where we were. I grazed each of her lips with my tongue, begging for entrance. Bella's lips parted and the moment I pushed my tongue inside. I was lost.
I could feel her soft warm arms wrap around me, under my jacket as I kissed along her jaw and down her neck and collarbone. When I nipped the skin there, Bella moaned softly.
At exactly the same moment, we both seemed to become aware of our surroundings again.
I almost groaned out loud when I realized how inappropriate my behavior had been.
"Oh God Bella, I'm so sorry. What must you think of me?" I asked, feeling like a dick. "Here I am, almost taking advantage of you on your mother's grave no less."
I am such an asshole. I can't blame this on sleep deprivation.
Bella actually giggled, stunning me. "Edward, I guess this makes us even for the time I dry-humped you in the church parking lot."
One of my all-time favorite memories
Oh Jesus. I give up. How can I possibly keep a straight face when she says shit like that?
It was difficult, but I managed to keep quiet as my body shook with silent laughter.
She pulled my chin up, and looked into my eyes. "My mother would have found both incidents to be highly amusing. Remember, I said she was a free spirit. She also had a wicked sense of humor. Emmett takes after her in many ways." She added with a grin.
Sounds a lot like my Mom
I sighed before smirking at her.
She stood, pulling me with her. "Let's go home."
-LRM-
We stopped by Charlie's, and said a quick goodbye before making the long trek back to Seattle.
I couldn't take any more. I was mentally and physically exhausted. Before I succumbed to sleep however, I explained a little of what the last twenty-four hours had been like for me. I also explained that Sidney, Lou and I had discussed the necessity for better security. In short, any time Bella and I ventured out in public, one of them would be with us.
I tried to continue our conversation, but I was finding it difficult to keep my eyes open. Bella gently pulled my head down to rest on her shoulder, and ran her fingers through my hair, and down my cheek.
I could feel my body completely relax, knowing that I didn't need to worry any more. She was safe here with me.
Bella's voice was the next thing I heard. I blinked my eyes open and tried to clear my head. We were at her apartment building.
I must have slept the entire way.
As soon as I saw the sidewalk in front of her building, I winced.
Fuck. It looks like the paps have found us after all.
Lou helped usher us inside. I had just enough energy to shower and stumble into bed, before falling into a deep dreamless sleep, my arms wrapped around the warm soft body of my beautiful girl.
-LRM—
I wasn't surprised when I woke early. My body was finding it difficult to adjust to the time change. It was dark, the only light coming from a small night light that Bella kept in her bathroom. Sometime during the night, she had turned her body so that we were face to face. I studied her features as best I could in the dim light. I smiled as I watched the way she pursed her lips as she slept. Every now and then, she would sigh, and I wondered what she was dreaming about.
As I lay there, I knew there would never be anything else I'd ever want or need in this world.
I thought about what she'd said in the cemetery. How she'd told me she always wanted to be with me. I knew that I felt exactly the same way. Wherever she was, that was where I wanted and needed to be.
She was willing to give up so much for me. I couldn't help the feelings of guilt that washed over me when I thought about that. We would have to discuss this further. Once we were married, I had no plans for us to ever be apart, but I would give up acting before I'd allow her to abandon all her dreams for my career.
I am no superman.
I have no answers for you.
I am no hero, aw that's for sure.
But I do know one thing
Where you are is where I belong.
I do know, where you go, is where I wanna be
I dozed off again, Where Are You Going playing through my head. My life in song lyrics…
When I woke again, Bella was still asleep, but the grey light of dawn was peeking through the curtains. I kissed her gently on the cheek before slipping from the room.
After showering and dressing in jeans and a t-shirt, I attempted to fix breakfast. I couldn't find any coffee, so I decided to make a pot of tea instead. I toyed with the idea of making scrambled eggs, but I knew my limits.
I really didn't want my girl to be woken by the distinctive odor of burnt eggs.
Toasting a couple of bagels seemed like the safest choice.
Once everything was prepared, I walked back to the bedroom and sat down next to Bella.
I brushed back the hair that had fallen across her cheek. "Bella" I called quietly.
"Five more minutes" She mumbled.
"Sweetheart, as much as I'd love for you to stay home with me, I know you'll be upset if you're late for class."
I really wanted her to stay home, but I was being the responsible, self-sacrificing fiancé.
Wow I am really full of horseshit today.
She groaned and pulled the blanket over her head. I chuckled at her juvenile behavior.
"What time is it?" She rasped from under the blanket.
"It's after seven. Baby, I made tea." I crooned.
She rolled onto her back then, and yanked the covers down. I smiled down at her.
"Good morning." She whispered with a smile.
"Good morning." I returned the smile.
"Missed you." She added, still in a whisper.
"Me too."
She sat up and wrapped her arms around my neck, pulling me into a hug.
Fuck responsibility, she should stay here today.
I turned my head in an effort to kiss her. Bella immediately placed a finger on my lips to stop me.
"Edward, you know I love you don't you?"
Here we go again.
I smirked and nodded her finger still on my lips. "I need you to understand that I'm not kissing you until I've brushed my teeth." She announced just before bolting away from me, in an effort to escape to the bathroom.
I don't think so Miss Swan.
I was ready for her, and sprang toward the door, cutting off her escape. I then grabbed her and pinned her to the wall with my body.
"Got you." I announced happily. "You know what that means Miss Swan."
She frowned before pecking my lips. I returned her frown. "That wasn't a real kiss Bella."
"That's all you're getting and you know it." She answered with a smirk.
I sighed. "Oh alright, brush your teeth and then kiss me properly."
I sat on the bed waiting, determined that she wouldn't leave the room before giving me a proper kiss. She smirked when she opened the door and found me. "You're funny." She stated.
"Why's that?" I asked as I pulled her down on the bed.
"You're so determined to get that kiss." She answered with a smile as she flopped back on the bed.
"Bella, you're lucky I'm letting you out that damned door today." I said as I pinned her to the bed with my body. "If I have to let you go, I'm at least getting a welcome home kiss out of the deal." I breathed the words as I ghosted my lips across hers.
"I thought you got your welcome kiss last night." She whispered.
"Hm? I think I may have amnesia, because I don't remember." I lied.
She chuckled. When she opened her mouth to speak again, I cut her off, my mouth finally claiming the elusive kiss.
-LRM—
I had planned to spend the morning doing abo-fucking-lutely nothing. That brilliant idea however was quickly set aside by a loud banging on Bella's door.
Emmett.
"Hello there Andy, how's it hanging?" He grinned as soon as I opened the door.
How does one answer that question?
"A little to the left, I think?" I responded. Which in turn, earned a bark of laughter from my future brother-in-law.
Future brother-in-law? Well at least Jasper and I would have that to commiserate over.
"Get dressed."
I looked down at my attire. "I am dressed."
Emmett smirked. "Well then, get changed. We're going for a workout and then to lunch."
So much for my plans.
-LRM—
"Did Bella tell you that my bachelor party is going to be in Vegas?" Emmett asked with a grin.
We were having lunch at the Blue Water, Emmett's favorite Mexican restaurant.
"I think she mentioned it." I was finding it difficult to show a lot of enthusiasm.
"Dude, I know jet lag is a bitch, but you're a zombie." He remarked.
"Sorry Emmett."
"It's okay. Pops is giving me shit already because he's my best man, and technically it's his job to plan the bachelor party. I told him that he can still plan it, only it has to be in Vegas."
I nodded.
"If I left everything up to him, we'd be going fishing or some shit like that." He chuckled.
As little as I knew about Charlie, I had to agree with Emmett's assessment, and chuckled with him.
"Who's your best man Edward?"
"Ah, that would be Jasper." I answered quietly.
I was suddenly very happy that Emmett would have nothing to do with planning my bachelor party. The fact of the matter was I didn't even want one.
At least if I'm forced to have one, Jasper won't plan anything ridiculous. Will he?
-LRM—
Back at Bella's apartment, the afternoon dragged on. I tried to think of things to pass the time, like playing my guitar, but found myself checking the clock so often that I finally gave up.
I had Lou pick me up from the apartment a full hour before Bella was due to leave work. While waiting in the car, I talked to Alec and reviewed my schedule.
Starting in less than two weeks, I was going to be very busy again. I had community service to perform in L.A. The reshoots would also happen at about that time. Jasper had scheduled me on several late night shows, including Leno and Letterman. Apart from being nominated for two awards, I was also presenting at the MTV movie awards. I was even scheduled to appear on Oprah during our two day stay in Chicago before hitting Route 66.
Fuck.
Until Bella graduated, I knew that some of these appearances would mean more periods of separation. Although this time it would only be a matter of days rather than weeks apart in order to fulfill my obligations. I could feel my anxiety begin to return.
Refusing to think about any of that until it was necessary, I headed inside the building to find my girl. I approached her cubicle quietly, and found her rifling through paperwork.
"Look at her working diligently. I wonder if she even gives a thought to her poor fiancé quietly losing his mind at home as he waits for her return." I remarked with a chuckle.
She spun around and threw herself at me. "Mister Movie Star, never doubt that you are the first thing I think of every morning, the last thing I think of every night, and the one thing on my mind every minute of every day." She answered as she proceeded to pepper my face with kisses causing me to laugh softly. "It's a wonder that I ever get any work done."
"Good to know" I returned her smile as I held her against me.
Suddenly, Bella turned to look at something off to the side. The smile on her face melted into a grimace. I followed her gaze, only to find some tall blonde douchebag standing in a doorway and leering at my girl.
The fucker didn't back down, even when I glared at him. I continued to glare until he finally beat it into his office and shut the door. The name plate read: Victor James.
I turned back to Bella, hoping for an explanation. "Is there something I need to know Bella?" I asked as I gestured a nod toward the prick's closed office door.
"I'll tell you at home." She sighed. "Let's get out of here."
Once back at the apartment, Bella told me about the run-in she'd had with that motherfucker Victor James. I was so angry when I heard the things he'd said to her that I wanted to tear him to pieces.
"Bella, I wish you had told me the vile things that man had said to you while we were still at the office." I spit the words out angrily as I paced the living room floor.
"Why Edward?" She asked. "So you could fight with him?"
"Damn right. I would have given him a lesson in manners."
"That's precisely why I didn't say anything." She answered. "You needed to have a chance to calm down first."
I flopped onto the sofa beside her. I knew my anger was irrational, but I couldn't help myself, I wanted to fuck up anyone who hurt my girl.
After a few minutes, I was able to calm down somewhat. "He wants you." I muttered.
"Yeah, that's what Rose said." She answered quietly. "He's a terrible person Edward. He thinks he can have any woman. He uses them and then discards them." She scooted closer to me on the sofa, and began to rub my arm soothingly. "It doesn't matter how much he wants me." She laughed without humor. "I'm afraid the only thing he'll ever get from me will be a well-aimed knee to the balls."
I never wanted him close enough for her to do that. I never wanted anyone that could harm her to get close.
The memory of my nightmare returned full force then, and I could feel myself crumbling under the weight of the sorrow I felt at seeing Bella's still and lifeless body lying on the forest floor.
I turned to face her. "Bella, I worry about you so much. I worry that someone will get close enough to hurt you and I won't be there to stop them."
She crawled onto my lap and placed her hands on either side of my face, forcing me to look in her eyes. "Hey, where is this coming from. I'm right here. We're together. Everything's perfect now."
Not wanting Bella to know about the nightmares, I wrapped my arms around her and kissed her lips. Her stomach chose that exact moment to growl loudly.
We broke the kiss with a shared chuckle.
"Well, everything's perfect except for the fact that I seem to be starving."
I stood, pulling her with me, and lifted her off the floor. "Let's get you fed Miss Swan." I smiled; after all it was only a dream. "I promise not to put a damper on our evening with my worrying."
After eating takeout Chinese, we settled back on the sofa. I couldn't hold back any longer. I needed to touch her. Kiss her. Bury myself in her warm embrace.
I started by kissing her lips, then her neck. As my lips began their journey further south, Bella pulled away slightly.
"I hate to be the party pooper Edward, but if I'm meeting with your mother for lunch tomorrow, we need to make some decisions tonight."
I smirked, "What decisions?"
"In order for your Mom to plan the reception, we need to have an estimate of the number of guests. Therefore tonight we need to choose our invitations and write up a list of people to invite."
As much as I wanted to put all of that off until another night, there was no way I wanted anything to delay our plans. The sooner we completed all the preparations, the easier things would be in the days leading up to the wedding.
We agreed very quickly on the invitations. I didn't really care, as long as they weren't flowery. We chose simple, elegant and traditional.
After phoning Father Pat and my mother, we not only had a wedding date, but definite times for the ceremony and reception.
Our next challenge was to choose the wording for the invitations. It seemed a simple task, but turned out to be the most difficult part of the evening.
Bella was using examples that came with the invitation sample package to guide her. I could see her becoming more and more frustrated as she wrote. I rubbed the back of her neck in an effort to calm her.
She looked at me "I don't like the way any of these look."
I looked at the tablet she'd written on, realizing that Renee's name was missing from all mention of our parents. I turned to my laptop and keyed in a search for invitations that included a deceased parent's name.
When I found exactly what I was looking for, I turned to her. "Bella, I think I know what's troubling you about the wording."
She looked at me questioningly.
"Sweetheart, all these options mention your Dad and my parents, but not your Mother." With that, I turned the laptop to face her. She smiled happily as soon as she read the words, and scrawled out her own version on the tablet.
Perfect.
Once that task was done, I watched as she set everything aside. "Let's work on the guest list tomorrow night."
"Sounds like a plan." I grinned as I pulled her back into my arms, taking up where we left off.
-LRM—
I spent the next morning making phone calls. The first was to my accountant.
"Hello Howard, this is Edward Cullen. I need to make some changes on my financial accounts."
By the time I finished, I had added Bella's name to all of my bank accounts, and started the process of adding her name to the house in L.A. I also had an appointment to change my will.
The next phone call was to my mother. She was delighted that I wanted to crash her lunch with Bella.
"Oh that's wonderful Edward. Now we can include you in the wedding talk."
The best part of lunch was being able to surprise my girl. I had regretted not getting to have lunch with her on Tuesday, so this more than made up for it.
When my mother started in on the wedding talk, I was very glad I was there to make sure Bella didn't get overwhelmed.
She seemed to handle things well, even when Mom gave her the 'Cullen' portion of the guest list, and suggested using Alice's wedding planner.
I left her with a kiss and a promise to work on the guest list with her that night.
-LRM—
After lunch, Mom went back to work, and I went grocery shopping. My intent was to purchase everything needed in order to help Bella prepare dinner. The only problem was I didn't have one damn clue what we would prepare, or what I should buy.
Not wanting to disturb my mother, I called the one person I knew I could rely on in this matter.
"Hello stranger" A sweet voice sounded over the phone, "When are you coming home Eduardo? I fell silly cleaning an empty house every week."
"Hello Mrs. Hernandez." I smiled. "I'm sorry, but I'll be in Seattle for a while yet."
"I see." She paused before continuing. "If I was telling the truth, I don't want to see you anyway." She chuckled. "At least, I don't want to see you alone. I want to meet your girl."
I laughed. "Thanks, I feel so loved."
"Hush. You know I love you Eddie, but I can't believe you hid Isabella from me the last time you were here."
It was easy to do. Mrs. Hernandez came to my house three days a week to cook and clean. When I was out of town, she only came by to clean.
"We were trying to fly under the radar on that trip." I admitted. "I promise you'll meet her in June. We're flying back for a weekend."
"You'd better, or I'll kill your plants." She said with a snicker.
I laughed again. "I promise, only please don't harm my weeping fig."
She laughed out loud. "Okay Eddie, as much as I enjoy talking to you, I know you called for a reason."
"Yes. As a matter of fact, I had the brilliant idea of going to the grocery store while Bella was at work, in order to help with dinner tonight. Now that I'm here, I find myself woefully unprepared for the task." I admitted.
I could hear Mrs. Hernandez chuckling. "You are standing in the middle of the grocery story right now?" She asked.
"Not in the middle exactly" I answered.
She continued to snicker. "Oh Eddie you are so clueless. I bet there will be several ladies going home tonight with baskets full of crap because they were distracted by Mister Eye-candy."
"Huh?"
"Oh never mind. I'm going to walk you through the store, when we're done you'll have everything you need to prepare a nice pork chop dinner tonight."
And that's just what she did.
After my grocery store odyssey, I stowed the food at Bella's apartment, before having Lou drive me to WIRI. It was quite a while before Bella would be through with work, but I had some personal business to attend to.
I knocked on the office door. It would be the last polite gesture I would bestow upon this piece of shit. "Enter"
I opened the door and approached the desk. Victor James glanced up at me and smirked. "To what do I owe the pleasure of a visit from Edward Masen." He said as though my name left a bad taste in his mouth.
I gave him a dark chuckle. "I don't intend for anything about this to be pleasurable, at least not for you."
He continued to smirk as he studied my angry expression. "Hm, I see that Miss Swan told you about our little conversation."
"Is that what you call it?" I asked incredulously. "Because I would refer to it as verbal sexual harassment."
He stood then and crossed his arms over his chest before grunting out a laugh, "Does she intend to file charges?"
"I don't think that will be necessary." I moved around the desk until I stood in front of him. "Let me be clear." I glared menacingly into his eyes. "I don't want you speaking to Isabella again. I don't want you close enough for her to smell your cheap cologne." He looked rather insulted at that. "As a matter of fact, I don't want you in the same room with her ever again."
"Or what?"
"As much as I'd like to fuck you up to the point where you would need medical attention, somehow I get the feeling that you'd like that. Getting your face on the national news while you have me arrested for assault is just the sort of thing that would appeal to a low-life like you."
"I think you need to leave my office Mr. Masen." James declared. "I don't appreciate your threatening tone."
"Don't worry, I'll be gone as soon as I've finished." I took a step forward as he took one back. "Just understand this" I poked his chest as I emphasized each word, "I have a lot of influence in Hollywood that extends to both film and television. It all comes down to money, and I make them a whole lot of fucking money."
I studied his reaction; I definitely had his attention now.
"One phone call fucker. Just one phone call from me, and I put an end to your pathetic excuse of a career."
I wanted to smile, because the limp dick actually paled at those words.
"Do we understand one another?" I asked.
He gave a short nod, but didn't answer before I turned and walked to the door. Before leaving however I turned to face him one last time. "Remember what I said."
As I rounded the corner toward Rose's office, I couldn't help the satisfied smile that spread across my face. I knocked on the door before I entered. My breath caught in my throat when I saw my beautiful girl sitting on Rose's sofa. She smiled and walked over to greet me.
"Hello sweetheart. Ready to go?" I asked.
She pecked me on the lips. "Give me five minutes."
-LRM—
Bella was pleasantly surprised that I'd gone grocery shopping, but not as thrilled as I was to hear that a publisher was interested in her work.
I knew what it was like to make a living doing what I loved. Knowing how much Bella loved to write, I was excited with the prospect that she could make a career of it.
Neither of us having to sacrifice our dream careers in order to be together seemed too good to be true. Most people would never have that much good fortune, but most people hadn't living through the shit we had in order to get to this point. Karma owed us.
"So are you completely done with the film?" She asked.
"I'll have to go to L.A. for a few days in June for re-shoots, but I'm finished filming in London."
No need to tell her about the rest of my busy schedule.
"I won't have to return there for work until I begin filming A Tale Of Two Cities in February."
Bella dropped the knife she was using with a clatter. "You're starring in A Tale Of Two Cities?" She asked in surprise.
Oops, I guess I forgot to mention that.
"Yes." I watched her, trying to gauge her reaction.
"Which character?" She asked.
"I'm to play Sydney Carton. Why?"
I wonder why she looks so freaked out?
"Oh my God Edward. That's such a powerful story. And once again you'll die!" She almost shouted. "I don't know if I can watch that."
I grinned. "Maybe I should turn it down after all?" I teased.
"Don't you dare. That is my favorite Dickens novel. You'll be wonderful in it."
"I was told that they adapted the script with me in mind for the main part."
"Wow". She paused, "Um, so we'll be in Europe next winter?" She asked with a grin.
Yes WE will.
I smiled. "Yes, I can't wait until you travel with me my love." I pulled her into my arms, "Truth be told, I can't wait until August Bella."
"That makes two of us." She smiled.
Fuck the dinner, I have to kiss her right now.
We kissed until we were interrupted by a loud knock which startled us both.
Damn it.
She looked up at me. "There's only one asshole in this world who would knock on my door like that."
And that asshole's name is Emmet.
As it turned out, Emmett came over to invite himself to dinner, and to give us a heads up that Jasper, Alice and Chris were arriving in town the next day.
This was confirmed after dinner by a phone call from my sister. She spoke with Bella first, before asking to speak with me.
"Hi Alice" I said after Bella handed me the phone and disappeared into the kitchen.
"Hi Edward" She paused for a beat "I have to ask you something."
"What is it?"
"Christopher kind of has his heart set on doing something for you and Bella, but I need to make sure it's okay with you first."
My curiosity was piqued.
"I'm listening."
"Ever since we found out that Bella never attended prom, and we also know what a disaster yours was…" Alice took a breath, "Long story short, Forks High School's prom is this weekend, Emmett and Charlie got the verbal okay for us to attend as chaperones if it's something you want to do. I'm just afraid that this will dredge up bad memories for you Edward…"
"Alice, calm down." I interrupted her. "Are you asking if I want to take Bella to prom?"
"I guess so. Do you think it's something you could do?" She asked.
The thought of prom brought back the worst memories along with feelings of anger and hurt.
Could I do this for Bella?
She certainly deserves to have a happy memory.
As I thought of prom with Bella, the feelings of anger and hurt began to dissipate. Just as in so many areas of my life, Bella was my healing force.
"I think I'd like that." I murmured.
It was true. The more I thought about taking Bella, the more I began to look forward to it.
"You're sure?" Alice wasn't convinced.
"I actually am Alice."
-LRM—
Bella and I spent the evening putting together a list of wedding guests. My mother had gone a bit overboard by including politicians and very nearly every member of Washington's social circle.
If anyone on that list didn't know that Edward Masen was actually Edward Cullen, they are about to find out.
Even though Bella assured me that she could handle sharing the day with that many people, I made a mental note to discuss things with Mom before the invitations went out.
That night as I held her in my arms, I thought back to our last night in England. Bella had let go of some of her inhibitions, and I longed a repeat of that night. Since I'd returned, we seemed to be back physically to where we were before I'd gone to England.
I was unsure whether her pulling back was caused by nerves, embarrassment or fear, but I silently promised myself not to push her.
On a positive note, I was glad that I seemed to have left my nightmares behind in England.
At least I thought I had until I dozed off on Bella's sofa on Thursday afternoon, and awoke in a cold sweat. The image of Bella's broken lifeless body haunted my waking hours for the rest of that day.
-LRM-
On Friday morning, Alice and Christopher arrived, and literally kicked me out of Bella's apartment. They were talking wedding gowns, and evidently the groom wasn't allowed to be present.
To add to my torture, Jasper and I were supposed to spend the morning with Emmett.
We ended up sitting around his apartment, watching a couple episodes of Spartacus, Blood and Sand.
At eleven o'clock, Emmett jumped up from his chair. "Come on bitches, we're going to lunch."
Jasper and I followed obediently.
On the way to the restaurant, Emmett told us that we were meeting some of the other groomsmen for lunch.
"Marcus and Walter are my teammates, and Jon and Joey are friends of mine from college." He informed.
-LRM-
"My dick is so big that it calls my balls its minions" Emmett's friend Joey announced, drawing uproarious laughter from everyone at our table.
This was what I was reduced to. Sitting in a restaurant with several grown men, trading 'dick jokes' back and forth.
We'd already exhausted all of the Chuck Norris facts, so in the natural progression of things, dick jokes were next on the list.
"My dick is so big; I can change channels without the remote" Jon shot back.
It was juvenile, but funny. The only one not laughing was Jasper, he'd had a stick up his ass all day, but wouldn't say what was bothering him.
Whatever the fuck. If he doesn't want to talk, let Alice sort his moody ass out.
It was Joey's turn again, "What's the difference between your paycheck and your dick?"
"You don't have to beg your wife to blow your paycheck." Jon answered with a laugh.
When the ensuing laughter died down, Emmett was on his feet.
"That's it!" He exclaimed. "My dick is so big that it has its own dick, and that dick is still bigger than yours." Emmett boomed. "Try and top that one motherfuckers!"
And so it continued...
Bella and I were leaving for Forks that afternoon. The whole prom weekend had gotten me thinking, and I'd decided to drive my girl there in style, so I'd gotten Sidney and Lou to pick up my Vanquish from my parents' home and bring it to me at the restaurant.
Emmett's friends were suitably impressed.
-LRM—
I was a little nervous about the meeting with Father Pat on Friday evening. I didn't know a lot about Bella's faith, and hadn't had a lot of time to read up on it while in London. Thankfully, Father Pat gave me a book which he said would answer a lot of questions a non-Catholic might have.
Father gave us a brief overview of the subject matter of each lesson, the only one that seemed to make Bella sit up and take note was the one about 'sexual intimacy'. I was curious to know if that pertained to before or after marriage.
I guess I'll find out soon enough.
Before Father left, Bella tried one last time to change his mind about sharing the class with Emmett and Rose.
"Bella, these classes are designed for more than one couple in order that they may help with insight that the others may not have. I guarantee that by the end, you will be glad that you did this together."
So he thinks we'll learn something from Emmett?
I already knew that Emmett's dick was so big that it had its own dick. What more could he possibly teach me?
********************************************************A/N****************************************************
A/N Good grief this double chapter was long. Hope you liked it. I'll be glad when LRM is caught up to V&V. We're very close. Song rec: 'Where Are You Going' by Dave Matthews Band.
Yes, Mrs. Hernandez is the only person allowed to call our hero by the nickname 'Eddie'.
Watch the facebook page or the blog, I will post a sneak peek of the next V&V there. As soon as you see it, the posting of the full chapter is usually only a day away.
Send me love, it keeps me motivated. TTFN