The Learning Curve: Chapter 89
Bella Swan's House
"That felt good," I sighed. We'd put our clothes back on after cleaning up, just in case, but we were taking the chance to cuddle now. With Edward's warm body spooning against my back, I felt absolutely content.
"Yeah." He nuzzled into my hair and kissed behind my ear. "How much time do you think we have left?"
"Maybe an hour," I said, closing my eyes. "Don't tell me you're ready to go again."
Edward laughed. "I could be, if persuaded. But no – I'm just worried about the Chief coming home and finding me on your bed. Even with us fully clothed, that's going to send the wrong message. And let's face it – the assumption he comes up with won't be wrong."
I gave his arm a squeeze. "You know my dad won't actually shoot you, right? He's protective, but he also has a healthy respect for the law."
"I know," Edward acknowledged. "But I want him to like me, too. I don't want him to hate the thought of you going off to college with me, or living with me."
I didn't comment because I didn't want to burst Edward's bubble. Charlie would hate the thought of me going off to college or moving out, period. Adding a boyfriend to the mix wouldn't help.
"Speaking of," Edward said after a pause, "we should go check the mail."
"Right now?" I was so comfortable, I couldn't even imagine getting up.
"Now," Edward insisted, sitting up and taking his warmth away. I rolled over and saw him putting his shoes on. I realized he was serious and reached for my sneakers with a huff of frustration.
Grumbling all the way, I followed him out to the mailbox. Edward had a spring in his step like he knew something I didn't, but I figured that was his usual optimism at work. He hovered behind me when I pulled out the stack of mail.
On top were the typical bills and junk mail that my dad received. Charlie's Sports Illustrated had arrived, too. There was a large envelope underneath, and I lifted it out without thinking much of it. It was probably my acceptance into the University of Washington – perhaps the only acceptance of which I could be certain.
But when I held it up, the logo wasn't for the University of Washington, and Edward was gasping at my shoulder.
"Bella. You did it," he breathed with excitement building in his voice. His arms closed around me, and I realized I was looking at a large envelope from Dartmouth.