Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.

Chapter 13

The Meadow

(May 5 months before mobster's ball)

It felt like a thousand days had gone by since he had last seen Bella, and... missed her terribly. Edward thought as he sat in his limo making its way down the streets of Port Angeles toward his business. Over the last four days, the visit to Seattle had completely drained him leaving him stressed out, angry and even more determined to get his hands on Lucas. After seeing, the remains of the warehouses, and men he finally realized what a serious threat James was to him.

Lucas was clearly sending him a message; warning him to watch his back, and had a sinking feeling, this would not be the last time something like this would happen. He and the rest of his mafia, as well as family were in serious danger and he needed to make sure certain precautions for their protection was taken care of.

He made numerous phone calls to his grandfather over the past few days describing to him in detail the destruction left from the attacks. Alistair was in agreement with him about his suspicions of Lucas being the one behind the attacks. Moreover, while Edward had his men hunting down Lucas's men his grandfather was working on hunting down others in Port Angeles, though he was baffled as to why Lucas felt the need to gain power by attacking the Cullen crime family. Yes, they had their differences growing up; yes, they were on different sides but what was Lucas's problem. He needed to think back and try to replay past memories of their hate filled past together, starting when Lucas began to become spiteful. He knew if he figured that out, he could find the underlying cause of all this craziness. He was fed up, tired of Lucas interfering in his life and wanted him gone. However, in order for him to do so, he needed to find and capture him. Moreover, there the problem lies; Lucas was able to elude him at every turn, always one-step ahead of him, and having Jacob Black on his side did not help matters. Even when Jenks hunted down every one of his thugs in Seattle that night and not one of them were willing to give them any information, even facing death they did not squeal. He just hoped that his next move would not cause harm to befall his family or worse Bella.

Ah, Bella, Just the thought of her brought a swift yearning to form in his cold, unfeeling heart, and it was becoming more pronounced the more time he spent with her. He was baffled as to why he was feeling like this, but he could not deny that there was something happening to him, and the thought her in harm's way was more than he could bear. Alice was correct Bella needed to know the truth, and he needed to do it soon. With those thoughts running through his head, he ran a shaking hand through his tousled bronzed hair. If he was going to do this he wanted to take her somewhere, they could be alone, a place where there would be no interruptions…. then it suddenly dawned on him…

The meadow

It was perfect the one place he went when he needed complete isolation from the outside world a place he knew Bella would absolutely love. With his mind made up, he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out his cell phone eagerly dialing her number, hoping he caught her before she had gone to bed.

"Hello." Bella answered breathlessly on the third ring.

"Bella," Edward exhaled, hearing her voice only intensified the yearning sensation in his heart.

"Anthony," Bella squealed. A smirk graced his handsome face glad to know she was happy to hear from him.

"I didn't wake you did I?" he asked hesitantly, hoping that she would not be upset for calling her at this hour.

"No, I was reading. Did you just get in?"

"Yes, I just arrived back into town." He said then paused before moving to his next question. "How would you like to do something with me tomorrow?"

"Sure, what would we be doing?"

Edward smiled at her enthusiasm, "Oh it's a surprise, but it will be outside so wear something warm."

He could hear Bella groan, pictured her rolling her eyes on the other end of the line, and found himself chuckling softly.

Jasper gave him a strange look from beside him, however he could not blame him after being in such a foul mood for the past few days suddenly to laugh unexpectedly, must be a little daunting to him.

"I'll swing by your place around nine in the morning…so be ready."

"Okay," she said slowly as if trying to figure out a way to get him to tell her where they were going. "That's it; you really are not going to tell me are you?"

Edward laughed again not being able to help himself; she just had that effect on him. "Nope," he answered.

"You know that is not fair," she said with a sigh.

"Bella, do not worry you'll like what I have planned. Just be ready when I get there…alright?" he said with a hint of amusement in his voice.

"Fine," she huffed, annoyed.

"I'll see you in the morning then?"

"Sure, sure," she answered.

"I am going to let you go…I have some things I have to get caught up on…" his voice trailed off, because he did not really want to go but knew he must.

"Okay, goodnight, Anthony."

"Night," he said before slowly hanging up.

He sat quietly with a huge grin breaking across his handsome face, as he put his cell phone back into the pocket of his jacket; it seemed no matter how much stress he was under Bella was able to make some of the darkness in his soul fade away. A snicker from Jasper caught his attention and he turned his head to glare at him.

"What?" he snarled.

"Nothing," Jasper replied with another snicker.

"What is so amusing?" Edward growled going right back into his foul mood.

"It's just weird seeing you become soft when it comes to a Miss Swan." Jasper said in a singsong voice.

"Fucking shut up," Edward snarled not liking the implication behind Jaspers words for if he noticed than whom else noticed his actions when in the presence of Bella. In that moment, fear gripped him, if she was in danger because of him…because he could not mask his emotions…

"Quit being such a prick, I'm just funning with you."

"I said shut up, and mind your own business." Edward snarled pulling his gun from the holster at his side and pointing it in Jasper's face.

"Take it easy man," Jasper said his hands rose in surrender when he realized Edward was not playing around. "I was just-"

"I don't care," Edward gritted out, "I'm not in the fucking mood." He glared down the barrel of the gun at Jasper making his point before lowering his arm and depositing his gun back into its holster, with a frustrated sigh he turned his head to stare angrily out of the window. Fucking Jasper who was he to sit there and act as if he had every right to tease him like that. They might be friends but he was his boss first, and he did not want or need his smart-ass comments.

One thing was certain before he met up with Bella tomorrow he needed to relieve himself of this pent up aggression. Especially after what happened the last time, he was feeling like this in her presence, that evening almost turned into a disaster. Luckily, Bella had forgiven him for his monster like behavior, though he may not be so lucky the next time he lost control like that. He could not stop himself from thinking that maybe instead of taking her to the meadow tomorrow and confiding to her as to whom he was, that he needed to just let her go.

Let her go…

As soon as that thought struck him he was backtracking, knowing he very well could not do that, just the thought sent a terrible panic, gut wrenching ache through his heart, and body to the point his hand rubbed his chest to ward off the pain.

No, he was being crazy; nothing was going to happen to Bella. This fear he harbored was just that fear…Bella was fine, and she would remain that way, at least he hoped so after he bared his soul to her.

"You and I to the gym as soon as we get to Calypso," Edward snarled.

"But Edward," Jasper began only to be cut off.

"Don't argue with me, I need to relive some of this pent up aggression."

"Why can't Emmett do it? He's always ready for a go." Jasper actually whined.

"Because you're the one that's here and available," Edward answered.

"Okay, boss I get it…it's because of her, you don't want her to see you like this."

Edward glared at Jasper for a few moments, "Yes," he muttered before opening the door to the limo and getting out.

Jasper did not follow for a few minutes, as he watched his friend and boss make his way into the building. He was not looking forward to the next few hours especially with Edward being in this mood. He hoped that they were able to put an end to Lucas soon before he lost it completely and went all lethal, unfeeling, ruthless mobsters on them. Because once Edward was in that mode, there was no stopping him and innocent people would be hurt or possibly killed in his wrath.

Fuck he was screwed. Alice was going to be upset with him when he did not show up, but Edward was his boss and he had to do what he said, he thought as he reluctantly got out of the limo and went inside.

…

The next day

Bella woke early, having slept soundly and dreamlessly. Though well rested she slipped back into her routine she took on since Anthony had left for Seattle. Now that he had arrived back into town, he wanted to take her out and spend some time with her; a feeling of elation spread through her as she got up out of bed and dressed in a rush, smoothing out her hair and putting on her sweater and jeans. She sneaked a look out of the window and saw a thin, cloudy layer of clouds veiled the sky, and hoped it would not rain. For she had a sneaky suspicion that whatever Anthony had planned it pertained to being outdoors.

Once dressed she headed down stairs, and into the kitchen to grab a bite to eat when a soft knock sent her heart thudding against her rib cage. Not able to control herself she flew out of the kitchen into the hallway lucky not to trip, and yanked the door open and there he was.

Anthony stood on her porch, when she opened the door he turned to fully face her, and boy did he look wonderful! The blue jeans were tight and, the blue sweater emphasized his broad shoulders.

Bella stood there a few moments taking in the breathtaking sight of this man, and forgot how to breathe. She hoped she was not drooling like an idiot, as her mind turned to mush.

God had she missed him.

He was not smiling at first- his face somber. Then his expression lightened as he looked her over, and he laughed, and that gorgeous heart stopping smile of his, spread across his handsome face making her knees wobble.

"Why are you laughing?" Bella asked, confusion written on her heart shaped face.

"We match," he laughed again. Bella took in what he was wearing and realized that they both had the same colors on, light blue sweater with blue jeans, and she began to laugh with him.

"Yes we do." She said before a pair of strong arms embraced her, and his lips were upon hers in a thoroughly demanding kiss.

When Anthony lifted his head and took a slight step back, he was staring intently at her a strange look in his eyes. "It's good to see you Bella."

"It's good to see you too," she whispered softly.

"So you ready to go?" Anthony asked her.

"Well I was just about to grab a bite to eat," she said.

He smiled gently at her then nodded his head, "Please do not let me stop you, and by all means you need to eat something…especially today."

Bella snapped herself out of her Anthony induced haze and motioned for him to follow her inside, "Please come in no sense in you standing outside while I eat."

Anthony seemed to hesitate for a moment his eyes gazing down the hallway, "Is your father home?"

"No he had to go in early, why?" she asked puzzled by his question, wondering why it mattered to him if her father was there or not.

At her answer, he visibly relaxed. "No reason," he answered taking a step toward her.

She noticed that his guards were absent and wondered why, "Where are your guards?"

He shrugged, "I gave them the day off."

Bella looked at him with amazement, "Really?"

"Yes," he said with a smirk, "Why does that bother you? You're the one who hates having them around all the time."

"I do it just seems strange…for you that is."

"Well they are under strict orders to enjoy themselves, away from us." He said as he took another step toward her.

"Good…are you hungry, have you eaten? I can make you something." Bella offered as they made their way toward her kitchen.

"I'll have what you're having."

Bella smiled happily, "Scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausage it is then," she said as she went to work making breakfast.

After breakfast was made and they were seated at the kitchen table facing each other, Bella could not help but be captivated by watching Anthony eat; she never thought that a simple thing like eating could be so mesmerizing.

"This is really good Bella," he gusted as he took another mouth full.

"Thank you," she said blushing watching him; his lips fascinated her as he ate.

"Did you sleep well?" he asked softly snapping her out of her obvious ogling.

"Yes, I did," she answered, "You?" feeling shy around him all the sudden.

Anthony smirked knowingly, before taking a sip of his coffee. "I haven't slept well in a long time, as I do when I'm with you." He replied, his eyes staring directly into hers.

"Oh, was your trip to Seattle bad then?" she asked concern lacing her voice, as she nibbled on a cinnamon roll she had pulled from a package on the kitchen counter. Trying to hide the pleasure surging through her at his words, it never ceased to amaze her how with just one look this man could have her so dazzled.

"Yes," he answered not willing to go into detail.

"I'm sorry to hear that. Your job seems stressful."

"More than you know," he muttered before taking another sip of his coffee.

"What was that," she asked not quite catching what he had said.

"Nothing…" he muttered.

A small silence fell between them as they continued eating; Bella unable to stand it broke the silence first.

"So after we finish eating are you going to tell me where you're taking me?" she asked. She felt so nervous and awkward around him and could not understand why.

He raised an eyebrow, a smile on his face. "Impatient are we?" he teased softly, his eyes dancing with humor.

"Maybe," she nodded, blushing, as she peeked up at him from beneath her eyelashes, and caught the unmistakable force of his gaze.

"I know what you're trying to do Bella Swan, and it's not going to work." He said laughing.

"And what am I trying to do?" Bella asked, a teasing sparkle shining in her eyes.

"As I said last night it's a surprise."

"You know Anthony, sometimes you're no fun," she said throwing a small piece of cinnamon roll at him.

A look of surprise crossed his handsome face before they both burst out laughing. Bella stood up and started clearing the table, aware that Anthony's eyes were on her watching her every move. Once the dishes were put away, she turned to look at him a smile still on her face.

"Ready to go," he asked her standing up.

Bella nodded.

He held his hand out to her, a sexy smirk playing about his lips, "Let's go then."

Bella took his offered hand and he escorted her out of the kitchen down the hallway and out the front door.

…..

The wind breezed against Edward's skin as he escorted Bella out into the driveway of her parent's home. He intended to take her to the meadow; a peaceful, quiet place where he could finally tell her the truth.

"You did not bring the limo?" Bella asked quietly as he headed toward his parked Volvo.

The feel of her body up against his briefly distracted him. The familiar throb of electricity pulsed around them and shot a straight path to his heart, and lower regions. Her womanly scent flowed up to him on the light zephyr, and he inhaled deeply, wanting to drown in her heavenly freesia and strawberry scent.

He had missed her so much.

"Anthony?" Bella called a bit louder, snapping him from his musing and immediately sought out her chocolate, brown eyes; they were deep with worry and concern.

"No, I will be taking you somewhere only for you and I." He murmured cradling her tighter to his chest, as a sudden pang of fear filled him. In that moment he never wanted to let her go…because if he did he feared he would never get her back.

"So that's why you gave your guards the day off?" Edward clenched his teeth, trying to stop a hiss from escaping his mouth as his mind immediately went to their previous actions from a week ago towards her.

"Where I am taking you they are not allowed," he said in a hard voice. Bella nodded her head gingerly and buried it in the crook of his neck once again. Edward left out a small sigh and kissed her hair, glad that she trusted him enough to take his word for it. He took a few more strides and then moved Bella around to the passenger side of his Volvo, before opening his door and helping her inside.

They were soon out of the town limits, and Bella could not contain herself asking him for the hundredth time where he was taking her. Noticing the thick underbrush and green swathed trunks replaced the lawns and houses. "I told you it's a surprise."

Bella peered out of the window with a wary eye muttering, "Something tells me I am going to regret this."

Silently he turned right on to the one-ten, and let a smile form on his handsome face at her impatience with him. He knew the suspense was killing her but it would not hurt her to have to wait and see where he was taking her.

"Now we drive until the road ends." He said mysteriously, a smile in his voice.

"And what's there at the road's end?" she asked curiously.

"A hiking trail," he murmured.

"You're taking me on a hike?" she asked then looked down to her foot ware.

"What's the matter?"

"Anthony I didn't wear the proper shoes to go hiking," she muttered as she glared at her flat-heeled dress shoes.

"Why is that a problem?"

Bella took a deep breath and finally said, "No."

"Don't worry, its only eight miles or so…" he trailed off at the look of horror on her face, and could not suppress the laughter. He couldn't help it though for when he was around her she always had this habit of making him feel better, happy, even when he knew once they arrived at the meadow that happiness might end for him.

…..

Eight miles, or so Bella thought repeatedly as she tried to hide her rising panic from him. Did the man not realize she was not going to be able to make it through the treacherous roots and loose stones, trying not to twist her ankles or incapacitate herself wearing these shoes? They drove in silence for a while why she contemplated on possibly talking him out of this outing.

"What's wrong?" he asked amusement clear in his voice.

She lied again, "Are you really being serious?"

"About what?" he asked.

"You know…how long the trail is."

He laughed, and shook his head, "Bella, I was only teasing you. It's maybe at the longest five miles."

"Okay…" she replied blushing, when she realized how gullible she'd been.

"I think you'll like it. Because it's somewhere I like to go to get away from everything stressful."

"So your trip did stress you out?" she asked in a knowing voice.

"Very," he snapped.

She nodded, keeping her eyes on the road, when she realized he was not going to elaborate.

He muttered something under his breath, speaking so softly that she could not make out what he said. It gave her the impression that he really did not want to be with her this afternoon.

"Look if you didn't want to get together with me today all you had to do was say so."

"That's not it at all…just, forget it." He answered before turning his eyes back toward the road and staring straight ahead. She could feel the disapproval at her last comment rolling off him in waves, and could think of nothing to say. Therefore, they remained silent for the rest of the trip.

Then suddenly the road ended, her eyes moved further along and saw a trial with a small wooden marker. He parked the Volvo on the narrow shoulder and they both stepped out.

"This is it," he said coming around to meet her.

Bella looked around her, "It is in the middle of nowhere."

"That it is." He said before slamming the car door shut. Once he turned to look at her, he chuckled at the worried look upon her heart shaped face. "Come on, Bella," he said taking her hand and pulling her slowly toward the worn dirt path.

Sometime later, they were walking up the hiking trail. It was steep in parts, rocky throughout and narrow. The tall pine trees rose on each side, giving her a feeling of walking through a cave, only this cave was of trees, she was breathing heavily and thought if she lived to reach their destination she would fall to the ground and gladly kiss it.

The forest spread out around them in boundless ancient trees, and she began to feel nervous that they would never find their way out again. He seemed perfectly at ease, comfortable in the green maze, never seeming to feel any doubt about their direction. She noticed the nervous glances he threw at her when he thought she was not looking, and his behavior made her even more worried than she already was. She hoped he did not bring her all the way out here to break up with her, which would be terrible if he did.

After a few hours, the light filtered through the trees giving way to an actual somewhat sunny day compared to the overcast murky tone of earlier. For the first time they had entered, the woods Bella felt a thrill of excitement, which quickly turned into impatience.

"Are you okay?" he asked when they came to a bend in the trail noticing her mood. He stood there with his feet planted firmly apart, hands on hips, the sleeves of his blue sweater pushed up giving a glimpse of strong muscular arms. His untidy bronzed hair even more mussed than usual, and his eyes…his eyes were sparkling. This caused her heart to thud erratically and to breathe even harder, as they now gazed into her eyes.

"I…am…just out of breath." she panted trying to breathe correctly. Knowing it was not just the exercise that caused her to be breathless.

"More like your impatient to get there."

"No I'm not," she said scowling.

He reached out his hand to take hers and pulled her up the last few feet. "Bella, if you're tired, we could have rested, we still can if you need to?"

She snorted, "More like I need to take a rest, you're hardly even breathless." Bella said swallowing her pride. She took another deep breath to regain some control over her run away emotions, and thundering heart.

"That's what working out every morning will do for you," he said with humor in his voice.

Bella huffed and folded her arms across her chest in annoyance. "And what is that supposed to mean?"

However, the infernal man just stood there ignoring her question.

"We're almost there," he said smiling that heart stopping lopsided grin.

God, he was trying to kill her she thought and found her annoyance from his teasing was melting away.

"Do you see the brightness ahead?" he asked nodding off toward the far distance.

Bella peered into the thick forest, "Should I?"

He laughed then, his head tipped back. Her breath caught again, her heart racing for a very different reason even if he was laughing at her. It was not fair that this man had this effect on her. If only he could feel the same towards her, she thought wistfully.

"There better be something phenomenal in that clearing, after dragging me here," She grumbled glaring at him.

Anthony suddenly lowered his head until he almost touched her forehead with his own. He narrowed his eyes, gazing into hers with some unidentified emotion shining in his. At that moment, Bella could see nothing, only Anthony and the power of his piercing gaze.

"I promise you," he paused for added effect, "This will be amazing."

"The place you're taking me?"

"Yes, unless you had something else in mind?" he purred in his sexy velvety voice.

Bella felt a blush coming on, as her eyes locked once again with his. She was speechless for a moment as he oozed sex appeal at her. Her eyes widened when his hand caressed her face, and with one finger, he tipped her chin up, until her mouth was only a scant inch or two from his. "We could stop here if you want to. This area is just as nice." He said smoothly.

She could feel the warmth from his finger seep into her skin where he touched her chin. Her lips tingled in anticipation of his lips as she felt heat pool between her legs. In that moment all she wanted him to do was kiss her. Did he know the effect he had on her? Was he even aware how much she was in love with him?

"I want-want to see this place you are taking me to." she said with a slight squeak. Taking another deep breath, she filled her lungs with the scent of pines, and Anthony, a heady fragrance that did nothing to ease the tension twisting tightly in her stomach and body.

"Are you sure?" he asked her silkily.

Bella tried to smile, to make it seem that his words did nothing to cause her emotions for him to run amuck. "I don't know, you'll have to surprise Me." she replied inwardly groaning, because even to her ears that sounded like an invitation.

"I thought you did not like surprises?" He teased mockingly.

"Yeah, well a girl can change her mind."

"Is that so?" he asked with a light chuckle.

Bella straightened pulling away from him, "Yes," she said.

"Then shall we?" Anthony asked holding out his hand for her to take.

The remainder of the hike seemed easier; she was unaware why she felt that way. In no time, they had reached the edge of the pool of light and stepped through the last of the fringe of ferns into the loveliest place Bella had ever seen. The meadow was small, with wild grass, and boulders scattered on the ground. Trees were aligning the edges of the meadow forming a circle around them. Here and there were small clumps of wild flowers – violet, yellow, and soft white. She could hear faintly in the distance the bubbling of a stream. The sun was directly overhead, filling the circle with rays of warmth. It was a surprise, a remarkable sight, just as Anthony had said it would be.

For a long time, they both stood there soaking up the sights and sounds, the whistling of the wind through the trees, the grass swaying, and the quiet, tranquil around them.

"Anthony, this is so beautiful." Bella said in awe of what she was seeing. Watching the flashes of color as birds flittered among the branches of the trees. Suddenly she felt very special that Anthony would show her a place like this. She half way turned wanting to share this with him, but he was not behind her. She spun around, searching for him with sudden alarm. Finally, she spotted him, still under the dense shade of the canopy of the trees, watching her with cautious eyes.

"I thought you'd like it."

"I definitely do," she wondered if she would ever get her fill of the view.

He moved forward, almost hesitantly, nervous in the way he moved. "Good…do you want to stay…sit awhile?" He asked his hand motioned toward a spot on the ground.

"How about forever," Bella breathed.

Anthony sat down on the grass, stretched out his long legs and leaned back on his hands. He peered up at her, a smile on his handsome face. "I'm glad you like it here."

She sat down beside him, "Oh, yes it's very breathtaking," she said, enjoying the sun. Though the air was still a little chilly for her, she still would have liked to lean back, as he did and let the sun warm her face. However, she stayed curled up, her chin resting on her knees, unwilling to take her eyes off him.

"Yes, it is." he answered and whispered in her ear. "But it's nothing with you in comparison." Bella could feel another blush form in her cheeks as he leaned over kissing her cheek, feeling the warmth that tingled from the touch of his lips on her skin. His emerald green eyes bore into hers, and for the first time she felt as if someone was seeing into her soul. Her heart, body, and mind were bare before him and he could do whatever he wanted with them. She was ardently, and completely, his. He gently lifted their hands and stroked her cheek with the back of his palm.

Bella watched mesmerized as the rays of the sun gleamed of the red-bronzed locks of his hair, making it glow, to shimmer, to come to life. Anthony looked to be just as awed by her.

It felt like they were sharing a private space, just the two of them, away from the rest of the world.

"Why are we the only ones here?" she asked him.

He shrugged, "I do not think anyone else knows this place exists," he said raising his unoccupied hand up to tuck a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "I'm glad…I like being alone with you."

"I like being alone with you to," she whispered.

"But that's not why I brought you here today."

Bella looked up again to see he was staring intently at her, "What?" she asked, suddenly gripped by fear.

"Sorry," he murmured. Bella watched as he took a deep breath, closing his eyes, severing their connection. "I don't want you to be afraid."

"I'm-I'm not," she stuttered.

"Oh, I think you are," he whispered, opening his eyes to look upon her once again.

Bella looked up to see his eyes watching intently. "It's still so strange for me, not knowing."

"Not knowing about what?" he gently pried.

"Not knowing if you will ever return my feelings," she answered hm.

"I think deep down in your own way you already know," he said, looking more serious.

Bella stiffened, "What do you mean?"

"It's a hard life I lead, Bella, one I am beginning to wish I never brought you into."

His voice was a soft murmur. She heard what he could not wholeheartedly swear to, that there was no need to be afraid, that she had nothing to fear.

She removed her hand from his. "I don't…I mean…I…" she stuttered, her eyes staring down at the ground, trying to avoid his.

"My line of work…it can be quite risky," he said suddenly.

"Risky in what way?" she asked.

He gently cupped her chin in the palm of his hand and tilted her to face toward him. He looked as if he were silently battling with himself over something, as she watched a multitude of emotions cross his handsome face.

"Bella?" he prompted, leaning toward her. His eyes dazzled her, his handsome face, those lips. A shudder of awareness shivered down her spine, making goose bumps form on her arms. It was becoming increasingly harder to resist him. "I am afraid that you will hate me, that you will fear me for some of my past shortcomings. There are things about me, things I have done, have been forced to do because of my business that I am not proud of."

"You have told me this once before, and do you remember what I said."

Anthony nodded his head, "That it doesn't matter," he whispered.

"That's right it doesn't matter, because I still love you."

His smile turned mocking, and he shook his head in disgust, "I'm one of the world's worst fiends, and still everything about me attracts you. When you should hate me, fear me."

"No! You are wrong I could never hate you, fear you. Why would you even think that?"

"Because I'm…"

"Because you're?" she asked expectantly, her eyes shining up at him with love.

"I'm…" he tried again but the words died in his throat, as fear overwhelmed him with thoughts of losing her.

"You're?" she prompted.

"I'm not good for you." He finally managed to say, unable to tell her the truth seeing how happy and carefree she was, her eyes shining up at him with love, adoration…he did not have the heart to ruin their perfect day together.

"Such a fucking coward you are Cullen," hissed his conscience. "Big tough Mob Boss can't even cough up enough courage to tell her the truth, what would your dear old grandfather think of you now?" It continued to sneer at him.

"It doesn't matter, why you don't believe me." Bella cried passionately.

"Well you should, before it's too late," he muttered trying in vain to get his point across without coming right out and saying what needed said, and ignoring the voice inside his head.

"It's not a good enough reason for me to hate you, no one is perfect. Besides, you would have to do something terrible, and the only thing I can think of bad enough would be for you to cheat or lie to me. That's-that's why I broke up with my ex-boyfriend."

Edward shook his head running a hand through his tousled bronzed hair frustrated. Nothing was going how he planned but he could not do it, the thought of her possibly not ever wanting to see him again, to talk to him again, of losing her kept him from saying the words that would forever condemn him, because he was worse than a stupid cheating ex-boyfriend was.

She raised her hand and gently caressed his face, "Anthony, look at me?" she implored.

Edward took a deep calming breath before letting his eyes connect with hers they held concern and adoration in there dark chocolate depths.

"I love you, and that's all that matters to me."

Her eyes bore into his, and he felt as if she was seeing into his soul. He gently lifted their hands and stroked her cheek with the back of his palm. "So beautiful," he said reverently, and pulled her toward him and into the circle of his strong muscular arms.

Bella's breath caught in her suddenly dry throat. She was a little confused as to his behavior, but blamed it on his trip. She sat here enveloped in his arms, feeling the beat of his heart under her cheek, hearing the chirping of the birds, the wind blowing through the trees. Moreover, she found that she never wanted this to end, this closeness between the two of them. She burrowed closer to him her arms winding around his waist.

"I'm not good for you."

His words echoed in her head. She did not want to admit this but she was scared that someday those words would ring true… but it would not be because of him, but her…that she would not be good enough for him… that he would eventually tire of her and she could not bear it. She loved him so much; she just wished that he felt the same for her…

At those thoughts a shiver ran down her spine causing her body to shake from the force of the pain that sliced through her heart…she just hoped that day would never come.

"Are you alright?" Anthony asked, brushing another piece of hair off her face. His voice suddenly took on a husky, sensual tone, his hands caressing up and down her back.

No, I am not all right. I do not understand why you cannot see how desperately in love with you I am, and would give anything for you to feel the same way. She wanted to say, but said instead.

"I'm fine," her body trembled from frustration or awareness of his nearness she was not sure. However, it definitely was not from the slight chill in the air.

"Bella?" he prompted, leaning toward her. His eyes dazzled her, his handsome face, those lips. A shudder of awareness shivered down her spine, making goose bumps form on her arms.

A small silence fell between them, as they both seemed lost in their own thoughts.

"I'm not like him, you know?" he said softly, as his arms tightened around her. "I would never cause you pain like he did."

"Why can you not see that not loving me does in fact cause me pain?" She thought bitterly, but said.

"Oh, really?" she challenged, and felt his body tense.

"Bella," he said his voice a hoarse whisper, as his eyes bored into hers. "I-I…can't give you…You need to understand…" he trailed off as his eyes darkened and filled with raw hunger, and some kind of emotion she did not understand or recognize. With a muttered oath, his lips met hers in a long, lingering kiss.

It was a desperate kiss, so intoxicatingly passionate, so fervent, and so persuasive. Bella's whole body throbbed with wanting him. She reached out to encircle his neck with one arm, while the other slipped under his sweater to caress the bare taut skin of his back, and smiled in delight to hear him gasp. She traced light kisses along his chin and down his neck, let her tongue taste the salty hollow of his throat and reveled in his agonizing groan of pleasure.

Passion and desire mingled and grew. She did not care if he did not love her; she had enough flowing in her veins for the both of them.

With another groan, Anthony gently pushed her backwards until they were lying upon the tall grass and wild flowers scattered around them. She tightened her hold on him as he did her, and savored the touch of his hands in her hair, running down the side of her body, pressing her closer to him. She never thought she would ever be so wanton in her feelings with a man, but Anthony seemed to be the only one to bring this behavior out of her.

Bella moaned, wanting to tantalize and please him, as he was doing to her. She wanted to surrender to the desires racing through her as his hands and lips possessively caressed her. She felt such a sense of certainty… as if she were a part of him. All at once, she knew that nothing else mattered, except this moment with Anthony. She moved closer not wanting to lose this feeling now, this magic moment of closeness.

He raised his head and looked down at her. She stared into his eyes, seeing the rampant passion blazing for her, understanding the unidentified emotion earlier in his.

"I want you, Bella…more than I've ever wanted anyone," he said hoarsely.

She saw the truth of his words reflected in his eyes, the sincerity, the excitement and the desire. Bella did not know what the future held for them, but she knew she did not want to be parted from him the man she loved, would always love.

"I know," she said softly.

…..

Edward gazed down at her, not really knowing what he was doing. He had lost all reason with himself. All he knew was that he wanted Bella more than he had ever wanted her before. He knew he should quit being a fool and tell her, but he could not do it, not with her innocent chocolate brown eyes looking up into his eyes like that…she was his weakness and in that moment, he let himself succumb, to that weakness. He groaned softly as a hot wave of desire, made him physically ache for wanting her so badly.

"I know," she had whispered and with those few words, with her devotion, and trust for him went his self-righteous thoughts, as he let the sharp pleasure of desire, send a shiver down his spine to pool in his groin. He saw the light in her eyes, the radiance of her smile, smelled the scent of strawberries and freesias, and something all her own. He swallowed hard his gaze drinking in the beauty of her face, her neck, moving down to her luscious breasts, and then back up to connects with her eyes.

Fuck how he had missed her.

"You are so beautiful," he moaned caressing her face with his breath; his fingers slowly caressed her bottom lip. Then he leaned forward, letting his lips graze her cheek, seeking her mouth a second time. "*Dio, (God) Bella" he moaned into her mouth.

She turned her head in an effort to meet his lips expecting him to kiss her with the pent up, all-consuming hunger she felt. Instead, his mouth slid teasingly over hers, lightly, back and forth, coaxing, tempting. After what seemed like an eternity, his mouth settled completely over hers and kissed her in earnest.

Edward groaned and wrapped his strong muscular arms around her slight body. He lifted her up from the ground, grabbing hold of the fabric of her sweater, kissing her with the hunger spreading throughout him. "I do not think I will ever be able to stay away from you," he said throatily.

"Then don't," Bella whispered into his ear.

Her words caused Anthony to kiss her with a renewed frenzy of hunger and breathless passion, all centered on her. His tongue caressed her bottom lip, asking for permission to enter. Her lips parted welcoming the invasion.

They both groaned.

His shaking hands removed her sweater, and began to unfasten her bra. She twined her arms around his neck, panting, breathless with wonder and shock.

"Oh, Anthony should we be doing this?" she gasped out.

"Why not?" he was barely aware of her question, as he slanted his mouth over hers and devoured her lips with an intense need coming from deep inside him, marveling at the feel, the taste, and the scent of her.

"What-what if someone should come along and see us?" she asked uncertainly.

"Who cares," he answered, as his hands sank deep within her hair.

"Anthony!" she cried out, as his warm mouth fastened on her silk covered nipples, sucking skillfully as if his life depended on it. In that intense moment, Bella decided to throw caution to the wind.

Edward shuddered with pleasure, for she was the only woman in the world who said his name like that, the sound of it on her lips, sent rivulets of pure pleasure spiraling down his spine to pool in his groin. It was more than he could bear, as his erection throbbed and grew in his restricting pants. One day he hoped he would be able to hear her speak his given name, but for now, his middle would do. Before he could feel guilt, seep in he lowered his head and took possession of her mouth.

Her hands, shaking struggled to pull his sweater off him. He rose up letting her pull it up and over his head. They were both in a frenzy of arms, tangling, bumping against each other in their eagerness to undress.

The raw physical desire for her all but seared his skin. He sighed when he was able to peel the silky material of her bra away from her body, and captured her breasts in the palms of his hands, fondling them while kissing her lips.

There kisses became desperate more intense as their hands caressed, learned each other all over again.

Edward was unsure how they got to this moment. He had brought her here today to come clean, too many months had passed with the guilt of not telling her who he really was, but when he finally got the chance, he blew it. Instead he was here with her, and was not about to stop now. They had shed all their clothes. All that mattered existed in that time…that moment was their overwhelming need for one another.

He rose to his knees above her looking down at her, his breath caught when he gazed into her beautiful passion filled chocolate brown eyes. Through the haze of his desire he saw, and was aware of her raising her arms toward him, silently begging with him to make love to her.

"Take me Anthony," she cried.

His entire body throbbed with his need for this woman, breathless with wonder at her words, as he eased forward capturing her nipple between his lips and started to suck gently.

Bella moaned her back arched as she curled her fingers into his bronzed hair as the sensation sizzled through her body. It was beyond her that he could ignite such an intensity of feeling from her. His hands slowly, achingly caressed, and touched all over her body. Whispering exotic promises as his lips explored the sensitive area at the base of her neck, then eventually making his way to the sensitive area between her thighs.

"Oh, oh Anthony," she gasped out from his teasing touch. She was feeling a little wild, wanton from the intense emotions he was eliciting from her. She held back nothing, for she knew she wanted him, as he wanted her. She was his heart, body and soul.

"Bella," he groaned. "I dreamed of us like this when I was away," he whispered, between bone-meltingly, deep, kisses.

Bella gazed up at him lovingly; she ran her fingers through his magnificent, soft, sexy hair. Glad to know that she had not been the only one having trouble sleeping, for dreaming of him as well.

"I truly ache with the need for you," he implored, almost begging her.

Bella wrapped her legs around his thighs, raised her hips in wanton, unspoken invitation. "Please, Anthony!" she panted unable to stand the wanting, aching, and desire to feel him inside of her.

"I need to hear you say it, Bella," he said. His hands cupped both her cheeks in the palms of his hands. He looked deep into her eyes. "Say it!"

"Please!" she cried out.

"Say it?" he growled.

"Fuck me?" she moaned. She was shaking with her need of him.

Edward felt his heart lurch, as his entire body throbbed with his need, her dirty little mouth turned him on even more, and hoped that in the future she would talk dirty more. "I will my naughty girl." He growled, as he eased forward, penetrating her body in one swift upward, thrust.

Bella buckled beneath him, sobbing with the intense pleasure as she buried her nails in his back. She raised her arms to lock around his neck, clinging to him. Her heels dug into his lower back as she rocked against him, meeting each pulsating, thrusting, stroke. Riding him, pumping him for all he was worth, feeling the sensations he evoked within her, reaching, wanting…

"I need you to come for me, Bella," he panted rasping. His hands moved down to play with the bud of her clit. Knowing after the small separation from her over the last four days, all the pent up frustrations and his emotions running amuck, he was unable to hold back.

"God…Anthony..." she cried out as she felt the explosion burst upon her, glorious, sweet, answer to her need, as she tightened around him.

"Fuck, Bella!" he cried out hoarsely. Thrusting with in her repeatedly, until he exploded. Spilling his seed inside of her, rearing his head back, blinded by the pure, unadulterated, pleasure that gripped him. He watched breathless in wonder as she came undone under him. They lay amongst the grass and flowers for what seemed like hours but were only minutes, before he eased out of her; a guttural growl escaped him as he fell down beside her. Immediately missing the connection of their joined bodies, he pulled her close, keeping Bella wrapped protectively in the embrace of his strong muscular arms.

They both did not speak to winded and in awe of what had just transpired between them.

He was grateful Bella did not say anything, grateful that she did not feel the need to discuss the true reason for him bringing her here today. He did not want her to analyze, to form any regrets.

"Regrets, Cullen you should be feeling some," his inner voice sneered at him. "Are you happy now?"

He tried to block out the voice of reason, but it was hard to do knowing he had failed his mission. Fuck, what was he going to do now?

Bella floated back down to earth post mind-blowing orgasm with a smile on her face. Anthony was still holding her, comforting her, to his chest. "That was..."

"Yes."

No other words were needed. She turned in his arms to face him and they held each other's gaze as they tried to catch their breath. She wanted to stay like this forever but knew they could not for they were out in the open, and naked.

Anthony seemed to sense her mood and gently framed her face with his hands before leaning down to kiss her softly. "You okay?"

Bella nodded because her voice seemed not to be working. He smiled at her before he started to collect their clothing, handing them back to her. They dressed in silence together touching not seeming able to keep their hands off each other.

Once fully dressed Anthony came to stand in front of her, she raised her eyes to see him smiling down at her, and she smiled back shyly.

Dio* she looked so beautiful with her hair and cloths in disarray, her mouth obviously well kissed, and eyes glowing with love, Edward thought as he stared down at her. Then guilt gripped him and he looked away from her lowering his head, his hand ran through his hair in agitation. Would he ever be able to do the right thing when it came to Bella?

He felt her gently stroke his cheek with the palm of her hand in a soothing manner.

"What are you thinking so hard about?" she asked hoping he did not regret them making love.

"It's nothing to worry you about," he said giving her a slight smirk. His hand reached up to cover hers on his cheek. "Though I think we should start heading back it's getting late."

Bella smiled, "Do we have to?"

He chuckled, "I do not want to but at the same time, love I do not want to be stuck out here in the dark. Do you?"

Bella shook her head, a disappointed look crossed her face, "No I do not."

Anthony took a step away from her; removing her hand from his face, he held it gently in his own, "Okay let's get out of here."

They both made their way back down the trail toward his Volvo; hand in hand, both seemed lost in each other, neither wanting to break the spell that cast over them, not wanting the moment to end.

…

A/N: Well I hoped you all liked the chapter. Sorry it took me so long to get this to you, it has been very hectic for me of late, but just remember I have not given up on this story it will just have long waiting periods for updates.