D'oh! Sorry it's been so long. A few notes to start with...

This chapter gives the story its Mature rating. If you opt not to read part of this chapter and want a quick summary- please drop me a note.

And I've promised a quick summary of last chapter's events- Last time in CCF: Bella returns from Forks and has forgotten the Policeman's Ball that she RSVP'd to weeks before. She goes shopping with Angela, and the two girls get ready for the event together. Despite it being a masquerade, Bella spies a familiar face...

Edward Cullen was here.

My heart drummed against my ribcage, and I held my breath in expectation. I was sure the music and the discussion continued around me, but I heard nothing except the erratic beating of my own telltale heart.

And, as though he heard it too, Edward turned and looked directly at me. His face was hidden behind a mask that looked like leather dragon wings, but I knew he was seeing only me. There was no mistaking the intensity of his eyes; they burned warm like the gold in an alchemist's pot. This was the first time I'd seen him since my crazy there-could-be-vampires-episode in Forks. He both looked everything and nothing like how I imagined a vampire. Vampires were suave and beautiful, but they didn't come out during the daylight, they had fangs, and they definitely wore capes. It didn't matter though, because vampires weren't real.

I thought I would hyperventilate, so I forced myself to look away just to catch a breath. I chanced a look at Angela and Ben to see if they noticed me freaking out like a teenage girl with a crush, but they appeared to be gazing around the room in awe. I swallowed and let out a nervous, broken breath. My neck felt hot, and yet I had goose bumps ripple over my skin. Summoning some strength or tempting fate, I looked over my right shoulder to see where he was sitting.

The family had purchased an entire table near the darkest corner of the room, furthest away from the dance floor. Edward was changing seats with his father, which gave him a clear view of my table.

I turned back around before he could catch me staring. Angela turned around at that moment too, the excitement making her eyes twinkle.

"I can't believe we're here! This is so much better than last year's!"

I just smiled and bit the corner of my nail. I was barely containing myself, and I knew if I said anything I was liable to break and spew forth a fountain of word vomit.

Angela scrunched up her face in a scowl. "Aren't you having fun?"

I worked on pulling my smile into a more natural one. "Sure, I just, ugh… need a drink."

I got up from my seat and let my eyes shift toward Edward's table. He instantly noticed my movement and watched me in earnest as I took the long way around the room toward the bar set up near the entrance. I wove between the tables, feeling his eyes upon me the entire way.

Once I got to the bar, I decided not to dick around; I got two drinks. I downed one flute of champagne immediately and handed the empty glass back the bartender who had his stupid cummerbund on upside down. I wasn't sure if he was impressed or disturbed that I slammed the drink.

By the time I meandered back to my table, still under observation, the vacant seats had been filled by some older folks. The ladies were squeezed into dresses that weren't fit for the 1980s, let alone now, and two of them had fur stoles wrapped around their necks. I was pretty sure that one of the men with them had on a velvet tuxedo.

Dinner got underway after the mayor and The Chief thanked everyone for coming. A huge buffet had been set up on the dance floor, but I wasn't sure I could eat. I ended up with a plate of hors d'oeuvres and fruit as opposed to the prime rib and twice-baked potatoes that I really wanted. I pushed things around on the plate and occasionally nibbled on pot stickers or pineapple in between glances over my shoulder at the Cullens' table. Each time I looked at him, Edward Cullen was looking at me. The corner of his mouth was always hitched up in that damn kissable smirk as if he knew when I'd be looking.

The giggling and chatter continued as the staff cleaned up the food. People wandered out to the silent auction set up in the hall to benefit the families of fallen officers, but I didn't leave my seat unless I was getting a drink. As soon as the DJs put some danceable tunes on, the dance floor was packed with people dirty dancing, Voguing, and doing the YMCA. Edward's sisters were dancing too—way better than anyone else—but Edward and his parents were deep in conversation. I glanced over once and turned away, embarrassed to be caught looking yet again.

"Feeling okay?" Angela asked, resting her hand on my back. "You're looking a little flushed, and you didn't eat much at dinner."

I blushed in earnest now. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just nerves I guess. I think I need a refill on my drink."

I made to reach for my empty glass, but Angela popped out of her chair and grabbed the flute. "I'll get it. I need another one too. Coming?" she asked, turning toward Ben.

He tipped his head back and drained the rest of his beer from a tall pilsner glass before answering. "Yeah. The owner of the newspaper is over there. We should say hello."

Angela turned and looked over her shoulder to see the line at the bar before turning back to me. "You'll be alright?"

I nodded, though I internally questioned if I would be okay. "Go. You have every right to enjoy yourselves. You don't need to babysit me, I'll be fine."

I followed her with my gaze as she and Ben walked arm in arm toward the bar. It was really just a desperate chance to turn and gawk around the room. Edward was not at his family's table any longer. I spun around to look for him on the dance floor, but he wasn't there either.

Had he left already?

I was so full of nerves and anticipation that I didn't stop to think he might only be here for dinner. I felt a sharp sting of disappointment. I wondered if it was too early to call a cab, take off my mask, and go home. Before I could dwell on my melancholy too long, goose bumps rippled over my skin. I could see his shadow darken the table a split second before I felt his cold breath near my ear.

"That lily pales in comparison to your beauty and scent. You are stunning, detective."

I gasped and felt my spine stiffen. I could feel his breath flutter over the skin where my neck met my shoulder.

The movement of his hand gesturing toward the chair caught my attention. "May I?" he whispered, making the little hairs on the back of my neck to stand on end. I shuddered, causing him to chuckle softly.

I couldn't speak, so I merely nodded.

He moved smoothly to take the chair and eased into it. Though his face was still partially hidden behind the black leather mask, his eyes were alight.

"I know you asked for space," he said, his knee touching mind under the table, "but I couldn't stay away any longer. I'd say that I'm sorry, but I'm not. I'm helpless."

I sat frozen. I couldn't help myself any more either. His hand rested on the tabletop near mine and, in a moment of supreme vulnerability, I stretched out my little finger and rested it atop his hand. "I don't need any more space."

My hushed oath seemed to hang in the air between us for an infinite amount of time before anything transpired. The mask gave me a confidence I didn't know I had. I waited expectantly, looking at his face as it went through a myriad of emotions. The words seemed to have sunk in, but he closed his eyes as he pressed his lips together. He seemed to be at war with himself, why, I didn't know: guilt, fear, regret?

I felt the sharp sting of rejection and the abject embarrassment that plagued me yet again. Just as I made to pull my hand away, Edward turned his wrist over and hooked his little finger around mine.

He leaned in closer. "Come dance with me." His voice was whisper-soft but intense with purpose. It wasn't a request.

I wasn't sure what surprised me more—the words or the deed. I just sat there, mouth agape, listening to the thundering of my own heart. He rose from the chair, and I shuddered as he extended his hand for mine. My eyes darted between his gaze and the waiting offer. He'd said nothing about my confession, but he smiled with that Cheshire Cat grin and waited as though he knew I'd say yes.

As though I were on auto pilot and without a care that I was in a room full of strangers, I put my hand in his, and rose to meet him. He led us toward the dance floor, and I felt the smooth slip of his fingers as they dovetailed between mine. My heart fluttered when he looked back over his shoulder and smirked.

I didn't know the song, but the dance floor was packed with people of all ages swaying along with the music. It sounded old school. Like something my Gran would have listened to.

My heart palpitated while he led us to the darkest corner of the dance floor, away from the most prying eyes. He spun me in a little pirouette, carving out our own little niche on the black and white checkered floor. He turned me into his arms, and when my body met his, it took my breath away. I blushed and looked down, feeling terribly insecure in the moment. His hand rested under my chin, and he tilted my head up to meet his gaze. He looked down at me through the flashing purple and white light and our eyes locked. My breath caught in my chest painfully, but I could not bear to look way. My breasts were pressed to his chest and my left hand slid up his arm to rest on his bicep. Neither of us looked away until I began to feel dizzy from the intensity of the wordless exchange, and my knees buckled. His grin only widened as he held me up, and I was done for. I was dazzled.

"I don't know how to dance," I blurted out, trying to remember how to breathe. If I passed out here, it would be mortifying.

"You'll be fine, Bella. Feel the music, and let me lead."

I exhaled and began to sway with Edward and the music. When I had the rhythm down, Edward instructed me to take two steps backward and two to the side. "What is this? The waltz or something?" I questioned as I repeated the phrase 'Slow, slow, quick, quick,' over and over in my head.

He smiled. "Or something. It's the foxtrot."

I tried to concentrate, but the question that had been weighing on my mind since the lily arrived finally crept out.

"How did you know I would be here?"

It was hard to concentrate while in his arms. It was hard to remember there were other people around us. Between the light refracting off the disco ball and the dancing, I felt like I was in my own version of a snow globe.

"Lucky guess?" This time it was a question, not a statement. His earlier bravado was gone. "Maybe I'm a mind reader. Or maybe I just assumed it, since you work for the department."

Okay, maybe that was a safe assumption. He didn't know I had two left feet, no social graces, and mild agoraphobia.

"Are you very mad? I didn't mean to presume anything, nor did I mean to scare you. I just thought a beautiful woman deserved something beautiful."

Faltering in my step, I tread on his foot. "N-no, I'm not mad. I'm flattered. Thank you." How could I not be? I got back in the rhythm of the dance and realized I had something I should apologize for too. "I'm sorry I didn't text you back last week. I was on vacation, and for my own sanity I didn't even have my phone on. I…um…didn't mean to worry you, but I was grateful someone cared."

"I was genuinely concerned, Bella. Truly. I didn't expect you to check in or let me know where you were, but there's a murderer on the loose, you know. I was so worried I almost approached Angela, but I didn't think that was a good idea—since I'm pretty sure I was on the suspect list for a while."

He didn't sound angry, and I'm not sure I wouldn't have been in the same situation. If possible, it sounded like he even could understand and forgive me. I swallowed the lump in my throat and felt the shame creep in yet again. I had based every suspicion on our first exchange, and it wasn't fair. "But not anymore," I whispered, leaning in close, resting my head on his chest.

He sighed deeply and began singing along with the music. Lovely, don't you ever change. Keep that breathless charm. Won't you please arrange it?
Cause I love you, just the way you look tonight."

Was he merely singing along with the lyrics? I had to put the thought out of my head before I did something rash. I was good at that. He seemed so cool and collected, and I was a mess of butterflies inside.

"So where'd you go?" He asked as another song played that I didn't recognize. "Not someplace warm, I'm guessing," he teased, reaching up to touch my pale, bare shoulder.

I shivered, but gave him a half-smile. "No, I went home to Washington. I needed some closure and time to think."

The vampire question came roaring back. I thought of the man who brutally and mercilessly murdered my father. He was sick and did not blend in to modern society. The man whose arms were around me now wasn't callous or uncaring. He was something else entirely.

"And did you find closure?"

I nodded. "I need to accept some things and let go of others."

We finished out the dance, and I was hesitant to let go. A fast-paced hip-hop song was playing now, and I couldn't imagine Edward dancing to it. I smiled at the thought as I let my hand slide down his arm. I clutched at his elbow, unwilling to let go.

Maybe he picked up on my hint, or maybe he felt the same way, but he was brave enough to voice it. "Walk with me?"

I nodded eagerly and left my hand on his arm as he led us away from the dance floor. I looked for Angela while we passed through the room, content to avoid her for the time being. I didn't know how I would explain myself. Thankfully, I didn't see her or Ben in the ballroom.

Outside the hall was a large patio that overlooked the Genesee River. A couple was out there smoking, but otherwise, the stone balcony was empty, though we would always be in view of the party-goers. Like a gentleman, Edward held the door and, when we stepped outside, I shivered. The October air was cool, and the sky was smeared with a thin layer of grey clouds.

When Edward saw the shiver ripple through me, he shrugged out of his tuxedo jacket without a moment's pause and held it out for me to slip into.

The satin lining of the jacket was cool as it slipped over my skin like a lover's caress; the intimacy of the gesture was not lost on me. I turned my face into the lapel where a sweet smell clung to the fabric. I'd tried before to place the fragrance, it wasn't honeysuckle; instead it smelled like a meadow on a spring day. The scent made me lightheaded, and I could feel my body reacting in really embarrassing ways.

"I just thought we could use some space," he began, indicating a marble bench furthest away from the smokers. He took off his mask, and I followed suit, feeling unmasked in more ways than one when his golden eyes met mine. "I just got you back. I'm not ready to let you go yet."

My face was aflame again. His reply put some of my worries to rest. I had very little doubt that he simply thought of me as a friend or an acquaintance now, but I felt the familiar nervousness of meeting someone new and the pressure to impress them while still being yourself.

I wasn't good at being myself.

Forcing a smile as I tried to get my heart under control, I sat down on the marble bench. "Me either. What brings your family here tonight?" I asked, desperate to establish some normal conversation I felt comfortable participating in.

He smiled somewhat grimly and took the seat next to me. There were several inches between us, but I could feel the tension filling the space, creating its own seductive energy, drawing me nearer to him. "Supporting the Police Department is a cause near and dear to all of us. We've all lost someone precious to us."

I vaguely remembered the night at 'The Dive' and hearing him say that his parents had died many years ago. I assumed that's who he was talking about now, and I couldn't bear to force him to expound on it. I hated the pressure of talking about losing my mom and dad, and I didn't want to compel him to talk about it anymore if it was uncomfortable. Angela told me the Cullens were adopted, so it was only natural to think they'd suffered a loss of family too.

"I'm sorry for your losses. I think it's really wonderful you're supporting the department though." I swallowed, debating my next line. "I've never been here. I should have come before tonight though. My dad was a cop." I shrunk into the jacket a little deeper and took a deep breath as I looked down.

He moved a little closer, causing me to look up. "Trust me, Bella, if you had been here before, I would have known." His eyes flickered down to my leg exposed by the slit in my dress before he continued on. "I think it's touching that you were so inspired by your father. In addition to your beauty, you're brave."

Was I beautiful or brave? I didn't think so. I became a cop to ensure others wouldn't feel the way I did at the boat launch that day. I wanted to be able to give people the answers I didn't receive. I felt far away suddenly, but a gentle tug on my hand alerted me to the fact that he was speaking.

"Tell me about Washington—you don't have to tell me anything personal if you're not ready. I know it can be painful sometimes. What is it like where you grew up? Where was your favorite place that you lived?"

I started to describe Forks. I talked about the rain and the forests. I told him about the Blacks and that I'd seen Billy while I was there. In turn, he told me about Chicago and going to White Sox games and trying to skip out of his piano lessons.

I don't know how long we sat together, exchanging tit for tat. He'd ask my favorite book or if I remembered my college fight song. I asked him about having so many siblings and if he'd ever met anyone famous. He kept managing to come up with interesting questions and was engaged in the conversation. Sometimes they were deeply personal, like when he asked if I had any strong religious beliefs, but sometimes they were more superficial too. He didn't care that red was my favorite color, but why it was my favorite and what that said about me. He asked about my hobbies and if I'd had any pets. We discovered we both liked running and superhero movies. We both liked the quiet and tended to be too serious sometimes. We both liked baseball too. I supported the Detroit Tigers and he cheered for the Chicago White Sox. I couldn't recall a time when I'd shared more about myself with anyone, or when I'd laughed or smiled so much. With each revelation we seemed to move closer to one another. My foot occasionally nudged his leg or his hand brushed mine, causing nervous laughter and apologies. I was that girl who made doe eyes and giggled at funny things that a boy said for the first time in my life. I was coy. I bit my lip. I blushed.

His own smile was genuine, and he was even more beautiful when it graced his face. I loved watching him laugh. The light caught the multi-faceted flecks of color in his eyes making them look almost illuminated or reflective, like an animal's. It was fascinating. I put the vampire idea to rest. I promised myself I wouldn't think of it again.

We'd huddled closer as we talked, our shoulders and hips touching. Our voices got low, hushed. His voice was smooth and velvety. I was wrapped in his coat, but I wanted nothing more than to be wrapped in arms. "What about the future?" he asked suddenly, contrasting the lighthearted tone we'd enjoyed thus far. "Where do you see yourself in ten years?"

I didn't answer right away because I honestly didn't know. My job was dangerous, and I always knew that one day I might not come home. I had prepared myself for that a long time ago, and I lived for each day. My goal had always been to close my dad's cold case. I didn't know what I'd do if I ever solved it or if I had to let it go.

He seemed to be waiting anxiously for my reply. He leaned forward, waiting for my answer. "I-I don't know. I never thought about tomorrow, only today. I guess I'd just take life as it came along. I learned to adapt to change."

He said nothing, only continued to look at me intently, his eyes seeming to darken by the moment. He swallowed tightly and leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, putting some distance between us. "We should go back inside. You're shivering."

It was true, but I felt rejected all over again. It was like we'd taken two steps back. "Oh—w-well, okay then," I stammered, watching him put his mask back on. He stood up and waited for me to collect myself. My hands shook as I put my own mask back on, both literally and metaphorically. Tough Bella was back, the Bella who didn't let her guard down.

I slipped out of his tux jacket and handed it back to him; I already missed the sweet scent. He put the jacket on and inhaled deeply. I took it as a sign of frustration and impatience. I smoothed down my hair after putting my mask back on and we entered the convention center once again.

Dr. Cullen lingered inside the door, his own mask tucked into his breast pocket on his jacket. He made eye contact with Edward, but the two didn't say anything for some time. "We hadn't seen you for a while, just making sure everything is all right."

The doctor's voice sounded light enough and curious, but his expression was serious. His gold eyes looked intense, and I was perplexed how Edward and the doctor could look so alike and so different.

The doctor looked at me and forced a polite smile. "Good evening, detective. I trust you're having a pleasant evening?"

I wanted to show Edward, show myself, that I could be strong, that I wouldn't hang on his every word, even if I felt rejected and devastated inside.

"Good evening, Dr. Cullen. I'm fine, thank you. On behalf of the department, thank you for your support this evening. Would you excuse me please?"

I left the two of them standing there and slipped back into ballroom without a second glance. My bravado was false, but I didn't care. A drink was sounding awfully good. Tapping my toes on the floor while I waited in line for a cocktail, I tried to think of anything but how desperately I wanted his hands on me; the feeling was palpable. There was a tightness in my abdomen and my nipples were hard. My fingers curled under, and my nails dug into my palms leaving concave divots.

I got two more glasses of champagne and drank one on the return trip to my seat. I set the empty glass on someone else's table along the way. Angela and Ben were back and talking animatedly to a couple I didn't know. I slumped in my seat and fumed silently, trying to give them their space.

"There you are!" Angela shrieked, spinning around in her chair. "I thought you'd left! Where have you been?"

Where have I been indeed? I didn't know what to say. "Eh, just outside, wasting time, I guess. I'm sorry to just bail on you, I got distracted."

She frowned. "Are you okay?"

Glancing over my shoulder at the Cullen table, I looked to see if Edward or the doctor had returned. The doc's wife was there with Edward's siblings. They were all looking my way unabashedly.

Waving her off, I tried to smile. "I'll be fine," I answered, wanting to mean it.

She nodded but looked skeptical. "Okay. Ben promised me a slow dance or two, and then we're heading home. Deal?"

I patted her knee. "Don't worry, I'll catch a cab. It'll be easier."

Angela's eyebrows raised behind her mask. "Are you sure? It's no trouble."

"It's fine," I answered, taking a greedy sip from my second glass of champagne.

We sat in silence until the DJ played a slow song that I heard every morning on the radio on the drive into work. Angela and Ben stepped out on the dance floor for a last spin around the room. I wasn't alone a minute before Edward was at my side again.

My nail tapped along to the rhythm of the music, making a tinkling sound on the crystal glass. His fingers closed around my wrist, cool and intimate. His thumb brushed over my skin and the silver bracelet with the petrified wood cross. His gazed darted between the charm on my wrist and my own eyes even as he continued to caress the skin with his fingertip. I bit my lip as I tried to fight off the visceral reaction to his touch. I wanted to want to recoil, but I couldn't. I briefly wondered if he could feel my pulse throbbing.

He gave my wrist a gentle pull away from the half empty glass, and I rose, following the pull of his momentum. I couldn't stop myself from following along blindly as he led me to the dance floor.

He turned me into his arms once again and held me in a much more intimate embrace than before. My breasts were crushed to his chest, and I could feel his hips pressed to my abdomen. The side of his face rested against mine, and I could feel his nose nuzzling the lily blossom in my hair. He inhaled, and the sharp hiss of breath caused me to shudder, my nipples hardening with pleasure.

As our weight shifted back and forth in tempo with the music, our bodies brushed together in titillating ways.

"I'm sorry," he whispered, sliding his left hand from my ribcage to the small of my back. The way his fingers drifted over the material of my dress made my heart leap up to my throat and beat erratically. I froze temporarily, surprised. "I know I can appear terribly bi-polar sometimes, but all of this is new for me. I'm trying, and I'm pleading for your patience."

I closed my eyes and leaned into his shoulder. I would have probably given him anything in that moment, but he didn't need to know that. "Shh," I breathed.

I didn't want to hear anything he had to say right now. His arms were strong and secure. I could feel the shape of his body beneath his clothes: the rise of his bicep beneath my hand and his firm pecs beneath my head. I couldn't even contemplate our hips pressed together at this very minute. I kept my eyes closed and simply felt him all around me.

Could I handle his manic tendencies? I was getting to know him better, and I liked what I knew. We had similarities, but unique differences too. I wanted to know why I couldn't stop thinking of him. I had to figure out if his attributes outweighed his oddities—if he was worth it.

I felt him stiffen around me a split second before I felt a tap on my shoulder, and I knew it wasn't Edward's tentative touch. Edward fingers lingered at my hip even as I turned and faced a very surprised-looking Angela. Was he staking a claim, or was this just another personality flop?

Even from behind her mask, I could see her eyebrows were raised, and her eyes were wide. "Bella?"

"Um… hi," I replied nervously, not sure if Edward and Angela would recognize each other with their masks on and what my only friend might say.

Her mouth was slightly agape as she stared up at Edward, ignoring me completely. "I—uh—just wanted to tell you we're leaving and ask if you, um, needed a ride?"

Before I could answer, Edward interrupted, pressing his lips against my right ear. "Excuse me for a minute, won't you?"

The vibration of his lips on my ear and his cool breath flirting with my skin made my knees weak and my insides quiver. I squeezed my legs together when I felt myself begin to get aroused. It was the most intimate touch we'd shared. It was sweet and frustrating. I wanted to turn toward him and seek his lips out with mine.

His fingertip traced a figure eight on my hip before hurrying over to where his family was getting ready to leave.

I watched him for several moments before Angela interrupted. "Bella, is everything okay?"

My eyes refocused on her and Ben standing before me. "Um, yes?" Did I need a ride home? I didn't know. I was hoping Edward would offer me a ride. I wasn't ready for the night to be over. "No, I'm okay. I'll get a ride or a cab."

She turned to glance over her shoulder, presumably to see where Edward had gone, but Ben was behind her. "Who was that, Bella?" She narrowed her eyes and pursed her lips, scrutinizing me. "Was that… your mystery man?"

My fingers knotted around one another, and my eyes fell to the floor. "It's early," I said by way of explanation, echoing my earlier remarks about the state of my relationship with Edward.

Angela took my hands in hers. "Don't worry, I won't push. You'll tell me when you're ready."

Nodding my thanks, I signed with relief.

"But," she began, a little smile hitching up at the corner of her lips, "let me say, you looked happy. Intense but happy."

If I looked intense, she couldn't imagine how I was feeling. I didn't know what to say, my face just flamed scarlet.

"It's okay," Angela offered, giving my hand a squeeze. "Be safe. Be happy."

I returned the affectionate gesture and nodded back. She leaned in and kissed my cheek. Our masks bumped one another's, and we laughed good-naturedly, breaking the tension I felt. "Bye, call me tomorrow, yeah?" She waited expectantly for my reply.

"Okay. Later guys."

Ben winked and they disappeared back into the crowd.

My eyes instantly sought out Edward, and I found him lingering at the edge of the dance floor, a smirk playing at his lips. The light caught his eyes and made him look…hungry.

I couldn't resist the urge to play. Just a little. Keeping my eyes on him, I meandered through the throng of bodies on the dance floor, not taking the most direct route. He watched me intently, like a lion watching a gazelle at the back of the herd. His eyes were focused, observing and even anticipating my every move. The Cheshire cat grin on his face let me know he enjoyed the game too.

When I approached, he reached out for me and turned me around in a little pirouette. I giggled, but as I spun back around to face him, I could see his face was intense and serious. He didn't waste any time in asking me the question I'd been waiting for. "Can I offer you a ride home?"

My pulse raced, and I knew that something was about to change between me and Edward. I had suspected him of a silly identity and an even worse fate, but now I was going to put my faith in him. Would I invite him up to my apartment? Would he accept? What would happen? What did I want to happen now? I didn't care if it was a goodnight kiss at the door, but I wanted more.

"Yes please," I breathed, staring up at his eyes, almost dazed.

"And you're ready now?" he asked, the smile threatening to return again.

I could only nod, and he made a sweeping gesture with his hand toward the doors, indicating that I should lead the way out.

I returned to the table to retrieve my little clutch. I could feel his presence behind me, but I bit my lip and looked over my shoulder, wanting to know he was there.

His hand lingered on the small of my back as we made our way through the crowded room. I felt like all eyes were on us, and I was thankful for the mask that partially concealed me. He put a little distance between us when we stepped out into the hall. He removed his hand from the center of my back, and I missed it instantly. Reaching into his jacket pocket, he pulled out his cell and sent a quick text. He didn't look up but explained it away with a one word answer, "Driver."

Driver? Didn't he mean valet?

At the end of the long hallway, we stood at the glass façade of the building overlooking the street as we waited for the car. The street outside was ill-lighted, and it let me see our reflection in the glass windows. I still wasn't used to seeing myself dressed this way, but I couldn't deny that I looked pretty. And Edward, Edward was just dazzling. His black tux blended into the darkness outside, and the dragon wing mask hid most of his face, but his eyes were brilliant and shining. I continued to watch our idle reflections, concocting stories in my mind for the beautiful but distant couple. Was this the end? Would they try? Did they mean anything to one another?

I was startled when Edward's reflection moved suddenly, seemingly too quickly, and came to stand in front of me. We looked at each other for a long moment, and I watched each flutter of his eyelashes wishing he would close the distance between us. Unable to take the tension anymore, I finally looked down. Was I throwing myself at an unwilling participant in this strange relationship?

His smooth, cool fingers lifted my chin and stroked my jaw line all the way to my ear. He nudged the dangly chandelier earring in my ear and smiled before tracing the same path back down. He took a deep breath and swallowed before letting his thumb stray toward my lips. He swept the pad of his thumb across my lower lip, and I couldn't help but close my eyes and lean into his touch. His cool breath was intoxicating and mere inches from mine. I prayed to any god that would listen, begging for him to just close the distance between us.

He inhaled sharply and turned away to look over his shoulder. "The car is here."

Fuck, I swore under my breath, letting my head droop again.

He walked toward the door, pushing it open as the valet approached and the two of them spoke. I took a deep breath, steeling myself for more unresolved sexual tension on the ride home and made to join him. I looked out, expecting to see the Volvo he'd supposedly bought not long ago, but I was floored to see a black limousine under the faint orange lights of the carport. He wasn't mistaken when he said "Driver." He meant it. Who rode around in a limo?

The chauffeur opened the back door to the car, and I felt awkward as I stepped outside the building to join Edward. Leaning around his shoulder, I peeked inside unsure if we would be alone or the entire Cullen clan would be joining us. Seeing no one, but getting a strange glance from Edward, I grabbed the sides of my dress near the seam and hiked it up a little as I climbed inside the car.

There was a short lounge seat at the rear of the vehicle and a long bench along entire side. I gracelessly slid across the shorter seat and sat on the long divan, sinking in to the sumptuous leather. Edward joined me in the car, sitting in the middle of the shorter lounge seat. His eyes were instantly drawn to my legs and the slightly inappropriate amount of skin I was showing after failing to readjust my dress into a more proper position. He licked his lips in the first real sign of any kind of sexual response to me.

The door closed, and we were sealed in the confined space of the chic car. I tried to modestly re-situate my dress as the driver settled up front. It was only a few moments before the car lurched forward, and I gave up trying to shimmy my dress down. Edward continued to stare unabashedly at my bare legs; his eyes burned and his chest billowed.

Something happened inside me. Despite asking me to be patient and understanding, Edward was finally responding to me after all this time. Watching his chest rise and fall, seeing his eyes smolder with intensity did something inside me. All I could think was that if I didn't kiss him, I would burst. In a split second, I made a decision. As the car turned a corner, I launched myself across the seat, falling into Edward's lap. I straddled his thighs and wrapped my arms around his neck. Without a pause, without waiting for an invitation, without waiting for a response, I kissed him.

His lips were firm and indifferent, and his body was frozen in place. I waited for him to counter, wanting, anticipating for him to part my lips with his tongue. He didn't. Shame and embarrassment consumed me. He didn't want this. He didn't want me. I had to find the strength to walk away.

I let one of my hands fall, smoothing over the lapel of his jacket, and I pulled away, too embarrassed to look him in the eyes. As my breath filled the space between us, something else started to happen. Edward's chest started to heave again and his body seemed to shake. I lifted my gaze to ensure he was alright, but I wasn't sure. His eyes were closed and a tremble began to roll through his body. It started first as a slight vibration, but he soon began to shudder more violently. His eyes were closed tight, his lips were pressed even tighter together, and his head shook back and forth slowly.

I was startled, and placed my hands on his chest, letting my fingers sink into the fabric of his shirt. "Edward?" I asked, futilely trying to pull him closer. I wasn't sure what was happening, but I definitely didn't expect his reaction.

His hands fastened around my hips like claws, and for a split second I thought he might push me away, but then his lips crashed to mine. Instead of firm and immoveable, they were solid and very eager. It took me a moment to get over my shock, but I could only respond in kind. In a heartbeat, my hands crawled to his lapels, and I pulled myself closer, letting my chest press against his. His breathing was ragged as his lips kissed a path from my mouth to my ear.

"Bella, I tried so hard to resist you," he hissed against my ear before his tongue traced my earlobe causing me to shiver.

"Please, don't," I pleaded as Edward's mouth moved from my ear to my neck, his tongue gently caressing the pulse point there. I couldn't help but groan and grind my hips into the obvious erection pressing against me.

In my lust-filled haze I thought it was too bold, too forward, but the sound that emanated from Edward could only be described as a growl, and he eagerly replied back with a thrust of his own. I whimpered and let my fingers crawl over his shoulders to the hair brushing his collar. I threaded my fingers through the brassy locks and tugged his head back, exposing his throat. I took control of the kiss, nipping my way down the length of his jaw line to his Adam's apple. I left an open-mouthed kiss on the skin there as my fingers fumbled to untie his bowtie. The silk slipped through my fingers, but I wasn't content to stop there. My hands itched to tear the little buttons off his white dress shirt. I managed to slip two of the catches from the holes before his hands captured mine and he secured them behind my back.

"Bella, what are we doing?" Edward asked suddenly, gasping for breath, planting feather-soft kisses along the edge of my mask across my cheekbone.

"Giving in," I whined, pressing my breasts more firmly against his chest. My nipples were sensitive, taut peaks. I leaned forward, rubbing my chest against his in an attempt to stimulate myself. I continued to feel the bulge in Edward's pants beneath my lap. "Please. I've wanted to give in for so long. Don't deny me."

I struggled to worm my hand free of his grasp as his cool breath continued to flutter over my skin.

One hand eventually slipped from his hold, and I reached up to push the mask away from his face, revealing golden eyes. As I sat, waiting, he mimicked the action, gently lifting my mask and exposing my own face. We looked at one another for the space of several heartbeats, catching our breath and, if I was honest with myself, I was looking in his eyes and gauging my chances.

His eyes were teeming with intensity and honesty, and he didn't look away. His gaze was locked on mine in the same way someone tries to gain the trust of a skittish animal. For the evening I'd considered myself the predator and him the prey, but now I wasn't sure.

His thumb stroked my cheekbone and he smiled sadly. "I don't think I could resist you at this point. You're very powerful, Detective." He leaned in slowly and pressed his lips to the place where his thumb had been only moments before.

The rush was gone from our next kiss. The all-consuming intensity was replaced with something tender and smoldering. His hands began to wander, sliding across the silky fabric of my dress. It gave me chills as he drew me closer and grinded against me. My body arched and curved to his in serpentine movements, bending to his will, seeking out each languid pass of his lips.

I was so caught up in the slow simmer, the gentle rocking of our bodies against one another's, that I didn't feel the car come to a stop in front of my apartment.

An intercom crackled to life and broke into our intimate bubble causing me to just about jump out of my own skin. I was glad he didn't lower the partition between us.

"Mr. Cullen, we've arrived at your first location, sir."

I felt Edward shift under me as he sat up straighter. I looked out the tinted windows at the familiar setting—lonely and dull. Even if nothing more came from tonight, I did not want to go upstairs alone; not to the apartment next door to where poor Morgan lived. The thought of being by myself, of being without him, was painful now.

Edward scrubbed his hands over his face, and I felt his entire body slump back against the seat as he sighed. I grabbed the two loose ends of the bowtie dangling around his neck and pulled myself closer, resting my head on his shoulder and letting my face settle in the crook of his neck. I breathed in the sweet scent of him with a soft hum.

"Please come up?" I asked in a whisper, my lips brushing against the smooth expanse of his neck as I spoke. I kissed the column of his throat and felt what could only be described as a purr in response. "We don't have to do anything if you don't want to," I began, intending on saying more before he chuckled.

His hands ran down my spine and settled on my hips again. "I should think my intent quite obvious, Detective, and as I said, I don't think I could tell you no."

He reached up and pressed a button on the ceiling panel. "Thank you. There will only be the one stop this evening," he told the driver. "There's no need to get out, I can get the door."

I sprang into action, climbing off his lap as gracelessly as I fell into it and retrieved my purse, shoving my mask inside. Edward tucked his mask into his jacket pocket and exited the car, extending a hand in for mine. I slipped my hand into his and climbed out. It was much cooler now, and he shrugged his coat off as I fumbled through my clutch for my keys. He draped the jacket over my shoulders, and I was suddenly worried we'd once again lose the connection we'd only recently found. I cinched the clutch around my wrist and grasped his hand and began leading him toward the stairs as the limousine drove away.

Edward came willingly, but I wasn't sure what he was coming to do. Would he stay? As we rounded the landing, I hoped I remembered to tidy up before inviting someone in.

I tried to ignore Morgan's apartment when we reached the second floor. It was impossible. The garish yellow and black crime scene tape still crossed the door. I vaguely wondered if Edward remembered I'd told him about the fate of my neighbor. I didn't want it to be a damper on the evening, so I tried to shake it off.

Coming to stop at my door, I tried to push the key into the lock with a shaky hand. Edward came to stand flush behind me and took the keys from my hand. He slid the key home and turned his wrist, unlocking the door.

I turned to face him, taking advantage of being sandwiched between his body and the door. I leaned against the frame and grabbed the front of his shirt and pulled him closer. He stepped in, slipped one of his knees between my legs, and drew the back of his hand down the side of my face. He spoke in a whisper.

"If this happens, it has to be on my terms. No questions."

I arched an eyebrow and looked up at him. I wasn't sure what he was hinting at. Something kinky?

He replied with his own raised brow as though daring me to accept the challenge he'd put forth. "Trust me," he issued, his voice suddenly solemn.

I had to trust this man. I was bringing him into the most intimate space I had. A failure to have faith in him would be stupid on many levels—and if I couldn't summon that kind of certainty, then I needed to say goodnight.

I looked up in his eyes, searching for a reason to reject him, but he stared back, and all I could see was a desire for acceptance and a deep intensity.

"I trust you," I breathed, leaning up to kiss his neck.

Edward gently pushed the door open and settled his hands on my hips as he pushed me through the door. I hooked my fingers in his belt loops, pulling him with me and bit my lip, trying to be coy. We stopped inside the apartment just as the light timer clicked off and cast the room in indigo shadows. Once inside the dimly lit room, he spun me around and up against the door again, forcing it closed with a loud slam. I fumbled to lock the door, shutting the world outside.

"Put your arms above your head," he issued in a breathy voice.

I knew this was a test of my trust, and I obeyed the command, raising my arms, letting my fingertips find purchase on the edge of the door frame. He put one palm flat against the door just above my head and leaned in close, but he didn't kiss me.

"You've been driving me crazy all night," he hissed in my ear before nuzzling my neck and inhaling deeply.

I felt his other hand push aside the slit on my dress and settle on my thigh. I began to breathe rapidly when his hand slowly began climbing up my leg. His fingertips crept higher, raising the opening of my dress as he went. I bit my lip in an effort to contain the whimper that was threatening to escape when I felt contact against the leg of my lacey boyshorts. I wanted his hand to move toward my center, but instead his index finger dipped under the hem and slid toward the outside of my leg, curving over my hip toward my ass.

He stopped his movement suddenly and a breathy chuckle fluttered over my skin. "Breathe, Bella."

I hadn't realized I'd been holding my breath and exhaled. I felt my face flame with embarrassment, and I looked down to watch Edward's hand slide back down my leg.

"Sorry, it's, ugh, been a while," I admitted begrudgingly.

He slid his finger down the slope of my nose and tapped the end. "Me too," he replied, and I could hear the smile in his voice.

Breathing a laugh of relief, I rested my head against his shoulder for a moment before he stepped away and put his hands in his pockets as he walked around the dimly-lit room.

The distance between us gave me a brief respite to get my body back under control. I couldn't remember a situation or a man who had ever caused me to get so caught up, to get so excited. With other men, even in college, my mind had pushed me into wanting the experience. My mind wanted to satisfy the urge, the curiosity, the expectation. But now it was my whole body aching to gratify this new craving. Every part of me wanted him.

While I removed his jacket, I tried to breathe deeply, like I did on the range while shooting. I summoned all my training to relax and quiet my body, but one look at him out of the corner of my eyes sent my heart spiraling out of control again.

I laid his jacket over the back of the sofa and smoothed my hand over the fabric when I felt him step up behind me and mold his body to mine. His right hand slid over the curve of my hip and down over my abdomen as he kissed the back of my neck and began to slowly lower the zipper of my dress.

Reaching up behind me, I rested my hand on the nape of his neck, letting my nails gently graze his skin there. He did the purring thing again, and his hand slipped inside my dress, smoothing across my back and curving around my ribcage. I arched my chest, hoping to direct his hand where I wanted it, but his fingers teased the edge of my bra.

I stepped away, forcing him to withdraw his touch. I took his hand, warmed by my skin and slowly began backing further into the room, bringing him with me. "So cold," I said as I led him down the hall to my bedroom. It wasn't the first time I had noticed it.

"Poor circulation. I'm so sorry," he said with sincerity, and I was afraid I'd ruined the mood.

Raising our joined hands to my lips, I bit the tip of his index finger. "Don't apologize for being you. I just wondered if there was something I could do to help."

He made a noise between a chuckle and a growl and pulled me closer. "I'm sure you can warm me up."

I bit my lip and smiled. I had been considering turning the heat up, but I liked Edward's idea better. When we entered the room, I let go of his hand and moved to stand at the vanity near the foot of my bed.

The light was different here; the waxing gibbous moon was growing and full of promise outside my bedroom window. I used the moonlight to remove the pins from my updo and unbraided my hair before shaking it out. Edward lingered against the door frame, watching. Catching his eye, I lowered the one strap of my dress, and he joined me in three long strides. The dress was being held up by the subtle rise of my breasts and nothing more. As soon as his hands grasped the bodice of the dress, the garment slid down and pooled at my feet.

I was nearly naked in more ways than one. I felt exposed and vulnerable. I'd never wanted a man to want me this much. His eyes seemed to travel down the length of my body as quickly as the dress fell—almost too fast—but they returned to the two places where my tattoos played peek-a-boo with my lingerie.

He licked his lips. "Jesus," he whispered under his breath. "You're stunning."

I smiled. No one had ever told me that in my life, and he told me twice tonight. "Thank you. The tattoos, do they bother you?"

He reached out hesitantly, giving me every opportunity to stop him and swiped his thumb over the slightly-raised skin as though testing if it was real.

"No, it most certainly doesn't bother me." I didn't have to look at him to hear the smirk in his voice.

Settling his hands on my waist, he helped me step out of the dress and guided me toward the bed where he sat at the end and patted his knee. "Let me see your foot."

Of all the things we'd said and done tonight, this made me the most nervous for some inexplicable reason. I swallowed and held onto his shoulder as I put my right foot on his lap.

One hand delicately wrapped around my ankle and the other began to unfasten the tiny buckle on my silver shoe. He slid my foot from the torture device and patted the opposite knee. We repeated the process with my left foot, and I sighed in contentment when both of my bare feet were planted on the soft carpet.

I wasted no time enjoying the comfort, however. I straddled Edward's lap and my fingers returned to the row of buttons on his shirt. When I had finally accomplished my task, I could only stare dumbfounded at the six pack abs he'd been hiding. I had no idea he was in that kind of shape.

"What are you?" I said bluntly, letting my fingers trace over the deep grooves of his abdomen.

He froze. "What?"

I continued to stare in wonder and appreciation. "I'm serious. Who is Edward Cullen? Is he your alter ego? Are you really Superman or something?"

Blushing, I made myself look away and saw him smirk a little. "Superheroes, Bella? Really? What if I'm not a superhero? What if I'm the bad guy?"

Leaning in close, I whispered in his ear, "I'll be honest," I began as my hand traveled down over the ridges on his stomach to the front of his pants, cupping his erection. "I've kinda got a thing for bad boys."

His eyes closed, and he groaned appreciatively, before pulling us back onto the bed. Hands palmed my ass, providing resistance as he thrust up against me. Our lips fused together, mine molding against his firm skin, and we kissed unhurriedly, even as his fingers were working on the closure of my bra. I pushed myself closer and licked the seam of his lips, seeking entrance. Let me in, I begged silently. His lips parted and his tongue pressed back against mine until he invaded my mouth. His taste was consuming, delicious, and I wanted more.

The clasp sprung free on my bra, but my chest pressed to his held the cups in place. I braced my hands against his chest and rose up, letting the garment fall.

He stared at my chest for a long moment before reaching up and drawing his index finger down between the valley of my breasts. His hands were gentle as they explored, and it felt amazing when he rolled my nipples between his fingers, but I wanted more. I wanted teeth and tongue. He licked his lips when my hands joined his in giving my breasts a squeeze.

I'd been patient enough, and I couldn't wait to get his pants off. I was slick with need, and I was squirming, desperate for friction. I climbed off his lap, kneeling on the bed next to him. "Scoot up," I said, my eyes darting between his and the obvious bulge in his pants.

He didn't delay, moving further up on the bed, taking off the white shirt before settling on the pillows and folding his arms beneath his head. I almost wished he would have left the shirt on. I had a weakness for guys in white button-ups.

I leaned forward and unfastened his belt and the closure on his pants before slowly lowering the zipper. He raised his hips off the bed as I peeled the pants down his legs and tossed them aside to join my dress on the floor. I paused to look at him, he was in his boxers and I was down to my lace boyshorts. There were just two flimsy barriers between us.

Returning to his waist, my fingers hooked under the hem of his boxers, slowly pulling them down, freeing his erection. I wished the light had been better so I could truly appreciate him.

I made to pull off my own panties when he sat up and grabbed my wrist. "I want to do that part."

He rose up to his knees and slipped his hands in the back of my boyshorts and slowly lowered the lace down, his hands smoothing over my ass as he went. The fabric joined the rest of the clothing on the floor.

Before I could urge him to lie back down, his fingers trailed over my hip tattoo again before wandering to my slit.

"Oh God," we both groaned as his fingers parted my sex and got lost in my heat.

I panted and fought the urge to ride his fingers. It felt good, too good, and I was too keyed up. I wanted him inside me. Summoning willpower, I pushed his shoulder, and he got the hint, chuckling, and laying down again.

I straddled his lap, my heart pounding, heat pooling in my cheeks, down my chest, and between my legs. I was trembling with need and I didn't want to wait anymore. Wantonly, I took the initiative and joined our bodies. His eyes were intense, mirroring the icy burning that I felt when he was sheathed inside me. Christ, I saw stars, heaven, I attained enlightenment all in that one act.

In that moment, with Edward buried inside me, his addicting, intoxicating smell all around me, it was the first time I'd felt as close to anyone in a long time. I refused to move, I couldn't. I merely basked in the sensation of being full of something besides loneliness. I couldn't help the pinprick of tears behind my eyes.

Edward sat up abruptly and pushed a lock of hair behind my ear before cradling my face in his hands. "Are you okay?" he breathed against the shell of my ear as his the pad of his thumb delicately traced my cheekbone.

No one had ever asked me if I was okay during sex, not even the first guy to take my virginity, but Edward did. He made me feel important, like he cared, like I mattered—and not just for tonight either.

I could only whimper my reply as I nodded. I felt hot, too hot, and cold at the same time while Edward panted against my neck with the effort of keeping still. I was terrified my body was about to short circuit in this fantastic moment. He lifted his hips slightly, pushing into me deeper, and it set my body into motion.

I pulled my hips away from his, feeling him withdraw slightly from my body. "God you feel so good," he groaned against the side of my neck, sweeping my hair over one shoulder. I couldn't wait anymore. I didn't want to be careful or tentative. I pushed him back against the mattress and dug my fingers into his shoulders as I leaned down over him, my breasts chafing against his chest with every roll of my hips.

He swore under his breath as he began to thrust inside me. His fingers trembled and his touch was hesitant, as if he was trying to be gentle while he caressed my thighs and let his fingers ghost over the arc of my hips. His eyes were closed, and his face was a mask of concentration.

We rocked against one another and I couldn't think straight anymore. The desire coiled inside me, winding me up. I was sure I was on fire, struck by lightning, something. My body was alive and excited. I wasn't sure who this version of me was. I wasn't the teenage girl trying to lose her virginity, and I wasn't the young woman trying to find acceptance at a college party. I was a woman experiencing true lust, I was able to be myself, I was able to give myself over to this man by choice with no ulterior motive. For this I would gladly give myself over to the flames smoldering and crackling inside me.

His hands eventually settled on my hips, guiding our pace. Sometimes the rhythm was slow and teasing, sometimes it was harder and faster. His grip was firm then, and he bit his lower lip. All of it helped push me over the edge.

"Oh, I'm—" I wove my fingers through my damp hair and my body shuddered as I let go, the coil unwinding rapidly. I let out a keening whimper, and felt Edward come inside me with a groan.

Breathless, I collapsed on his chest and closed my eyes. I felt his fingers, cool and light, as they trailed up and down my spine like he was playing a musical instrument.

I felt safe here in his embrace. Surrounded. Not empty. For so long I'd suppressed the way I felt about everything because in my world people didn't stick around for long, and I wanted to avoid the pity and the labels: the witness, the orphan, the weirdo. Here I was just Bella, and I couldn't help but wonder if he could desire me just the way I was.

His lips pressed against the top of my head, and I hummed appreciatively, unwilling to open my eyes. This felt too good. "S'good," I mumbled, nuzzling against his chest as his touch grazed the nape of my neck. I shuddered against him. "Cold," I admitted, burrowing into him closer. I was so tired, but despite his granite-like body beneath mine, he felt so good.

"Damn it, I'm sorry," he swore. "Let me—" he made to sit up, and I knew I was showing how needy I was, but I protested.

"No," I lamented. "Don't go."

I liked this place with him. I realized how foggy my brain was getting, and I was floating on the edge of unconsciousness, struggling to stay awake.

I didn't remember anything after that, but I felt warmer, and I realized some time must have passed. I was under the thick down of my comforter. I felt him solid beneath me and knew he was still here. I should have asked him if he wanted to stay but also offer him an out if he wanted to leave, but I couldn't. I wanted him to stay. I wanted him to want to stay. I squeezed him a little, fighting the urge to open my eyes.

The last thing I heard was "Sleep, Bella," before he began to hum a sweet melody.

*hides* So... yeah... I hope that was decent, it's been forever since I've written anything lemony. Give me some love, yeah? Do you agree with Bella's decision? Is she moving too fast? Is her track record a concern?

Many, MANY thanks to duskwater2153 for the beta. Thank you, dear.

I have a few song recs for this chapter. A couple are the songs Edward and Bella dance to, other just fit the mood and kept me company while writing: "Just the Way You Look Tonight" by Frank Sinatra, "They Can't Take That Away From Me" by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, "Leisure Suite" by Feist, and "Come On Closer" by Jem.

I also have a photobucket album for this fic. The banner is there as well as Edward and Bella's masks, Bella's dress, the Cullen house, and some other things that inspire me.

Good news, the next chapter of this fic is written. I'm, obviously, getting to a point where I need to be careful and not paint myself into corners, so as soon as I get chapter 16 done, I'll post. I'm hoping that's within 2 weeks. Thank you all for your patience. Your words and reviews are so encouraging and wonderful. Thank you.