Author's Note: I own nothing. I just like to play with the characters that were created by Stephenie Meyer. No copyright infringement is intended.
Also, thank you for those of who have commented and offered well-wishes in my difficult time. It means a lot to me. Writing these stories has been my strength (as silly as that sounds) and has grounded me.
Rated M for future lemons (they will come!)
Chapter 8: The Parties
I pulled into Edward's driveway. My cake sitting on the passenger seat and I was nervous. Was this a date? No, it's not a date. You're planning your best friend's bachelorette party with the best man. But he is cooking you dinner. It's probably pizza. He is a guy. Edward doesn't seem like a guy who would make or order pizza. He's too health conscious. You remember what he looked like with no shirt on. Holy six pack, Batman!
Okay, it's official. I've lost my damn mind. I'm carrying on ENTIRE conversations in my head. This really needs to stop.
Let him love you, Bella, and it will. DUH!
I buried my head in my hands, hitting it on the steering wheel. "I will behave myself. I will not act like a crazy lady," I mumbled. "Come on, Swan. You can do this."
I got out of my car and walked to the passenger seat. I picked up the cake and walked up the manicured steps of Edward's home. As I moved closer to the house, I heard the most beautiful piece of music being played on the piano. It was so good, it had to be a recording. The chords were lush and luxuriant. The melody was soft and sweet: a lullaby. I'd never heard it before. I should ask Edward what the name of the recording is. It's so good. I took a breath and rang the doorbell. The music stopped.
Was that Edward? Holy shit!
Edward opened up the door and he gave me a crooked smile. He was wearing a pair of dark, distressed jeans and a white button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up to the elbows. "Hey, beautiful," he said as he stepped to one side. I walked in and handed him the cake. He bounced on his toes, similar to how Alice does when she's excited. It was very cute and un-Edward-like. "Yay! Cake!"
"What are you, like ten?" I teased.
"Shut it. This was the best cake I've had, ever," Edward said as he rolled his eyes. "Come on. I've made us some chicken picata. I hope you like it."
"You know how to cook?" I squeaked.
"Yeah. I've lived on my own for three years. It's kind of a necessity. Did you expect pizza?" Edward chided.
"Well, kind of," I shrugged.
"I hate pizza. It's nasty," Edward said as he wrinkled his nose. "I'll eat it, but there are things that I enjoy more. Do you want anything to drink? I have some white wine that I used in the chicken if you want some."
"No, I'll stick with water," I said as I followed Edward into his kitchen. His beautiful kitchen. I want to cook in this kitchen.
Edward put the cake on the counter and he got my water for me. He sat down at the island and placed the water in front the empty chair. I hopped up and sipped my water. "How was your nap yesterday?"
"As soon as I got home, around two, I crashed and slept until like ten this morning," Edward laughed. "I felt like such a bum, but apparently I needed it. I woke up this morning refreshed and I actually went for a run today. My back and legs are barking, but it felt good."
"You run? God bless you, I couldn't do that," I sighed.
"Why not?" Edward asked he picked up his glass.
"No cartilage in either ankle. I can't handle the impact. If I do work out, it has to be low-impact," I muttered. "I hate having the ankles of an 80 year old woman."
"Have you tried physical therapy?"
"Yeah, but they still hurt like a son of a bitch," I said, looking into his jade eyes. "I usually walk or do the elliptical trainer."
"If you want, we could go for a walk after dinner?" Edward suggested. "We'll go the opposite way of your old house."
"Sure," I smiled as I checked my feet. I was wearing sneakers, thankfully. And a pair of jeans. "I have a question for you. That music that was playing when I walked up. Who was that? It was beautiful."
Edward blushed and he picked at an invisible piece of lint on his own dark washed, distressed jeans. "That was me. I was just noodling around on the piano and that's what stemmed from my brain."
"That was you? Holy crow!" I exclaimed. "You are fantastic, Edward."
"Thanks," he said, not looking at me. "I haven't really played since I moved out here. I guess I was inspired." Edward gracefully slid off the chair and he checked the oven. His brow furrowed and then he picked up a pan and filled it with water. "Spaghetti okay?"
"That's fine. Do you need help?" I asked.
"Can you make the salad? All the goods are in the fridge and there is a cutting board is in the cabinet where you are sitting," Edward smiled as put some salt in the water. He reached above the stove and took out a large bowl. He put it down in front of me and handed me knife.
I went into the fridge and pulled out the lettuce, tomato, onion and cucumber. "Do you have olive oil and balsamic vinegar?"
"In the pantry," Edward said as he nodded to the door to the right of fridge. I opened the door and stepped into a pantry that was larger than my entire kitchen in the condo.
"Fuck me," I sighed in the huge pantry. It was well stocked and not with generic brands. I looked around and picked up some olive oil and some really expensive vinegar. I walked back and put the lettuce into the bowl. I then chopped the onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers. I put on some salt and pepper and tossed in the olive oil and vinegar. Edward drained the pasta and put it into a large bowl and covered it with the chicken that he had pulled from the oven.
"Are you in pantry envy?" Edward laughed.
"Your pantry is bigger than my entire kitchen," I snorted. I picked up the salad and put it on the kitchen table, which was set elegantly with simple white plates and gray napkins. "Thank you for cooking dinner, Edward."
"It was my pleasure," Edward as he put the meal on the table. He turned around and handed me a wine glass filled with white wine. "Alice told me you liked this stuff, Pinot Gris. Just because I'm voluntarily sober, doesn't mean that you shouldn't enjoy a drink, Bella."
"Thank you," I said, accepting my glass of wine. Edward dished out some of the chicken into my plate and we dug in. "Holy shit, this is delicious!"
"I'm glad you're enjoying it," Edward smiled as he twirled the spaghetti on his fork. "It was my grandmother's recipe."
"Well, compliments to the chef," I smiled as I held up my wine glass. Edward clinked his water glass with mine and gave me a wink. We continued eating and soft music wafted through Edward's home through his sound dock. "I made arrangements for the party today."
Edward swallowed and took a sip of his water, "You did? So what's the plan?"
"We meet here at 5 on the 13th for some appetizers and drinks. Then around seven we're going to a wine tasting at Alice's favorite winery, Cooper's Hawk. We're also getting dinner while we're there in their private dining room. After that, we're going to PoleCats for some strip club fun and ending the evening at Features," I explained. "Rose got the 'games' and said she's going to make a penis cake. Did you know that they have a mold for that?"
"That's just fucked up," Edward laughed. "Please tell me she's not going to decorate it like a real dick."
"I think she is. Pubes and everything," I giggled.
"I will not be partaking in that cake. It's just wrong to eat cake that is in the shape of the male anatomy," Edward said, scrunching his nose.
"What did you do for your bachelor party, Dr. Masen?" I asked. "I told you about my party. It's only fair that you tell me about yours."
"Complete and total debauchery. On my groomsmen's part," Edward sighed. "They got lit. I mean completely and totally hammered at this strip club in Seattle. I was sipping my water and watched them act like total assholes. They bought me a lap dance, which I didn't want. The girl was no more than eighteen and she was scared something awful. She took me back to a private room and starting dancing. I could see her apprehension and I told her to stop. She blushed and started speaking in Russian. I then asked her if she was brought here against her will. Taken from her family and she nodded. I got sick and gave her all the money I had in my wallet and told her to leave the club. She hugged me and darted out of the room. I told my friends that I needed to go and they whined about the stick in the mud groom. We got back to my condo and they crashed. I called the cops and gave them an anonymous tip. The strip club was shut down the next day in connection to a sex slave and prostitution ring."
"Damn, trouble follows you everywhere," I said, furrowing my brow.
"Yes, it does. However, I knew I did the right thing with that girl, Irina," Edward said. "I was happy that I helped her."
"How long were you married to your wife?" I asked.
"We got married as soon as I was done with medical school. Tanya was older than me by a couple of years and she was working on her residency. We were both going to be at the same hospital. We were married for a little over five years. We met when I was a senior in college and dated all through medical school, for me. We were together for eight years all together," Edward explained. "She was a good person. Beautiful. Brilliant."
"Do you have any pictures?" I asked.
Edward nodded and he got up. He gracefully walked to the family room and picked up a 5x7 photo from the mantle of the fireplace. He smiled wistfully and his absentmindedly twisted his left ring finger. Almost like he was twisting his wedding ring. He walked back and handed me the photo. It was the first kiss photo from their wedding. Tanya was tall and blonde. Her hair was curled and piled on her head in an intricate twist. Her dress was strapless and her arms were thrown around Edward's neck. "She's lovely," I said as I looked at the happy couple. "You both looked like you were so much in love."
"We were," Edward said. I handed him back the photo and he put it on the mantle. "She was a kind-hearted, beautiful woman. She was my equal in every way. However, she challenged me in certain aspects as well. Her temper was a force to be reckoned with. She could from zero to pissed in a matter of seconds. It got her into trouble with her attending more often than not, but she was respected as a physician and a psychiatrist. The first few months of our marriage were a struggle. I was getting used to be a resident at Virginia Mason and she was finally on the psych floor. I would work all these wacky hours and she would essentially maintain banker's hours. It was very stressful being newlyweds. But we made it work. It made me who I am today. Are you finished?"
"Finished?" I asked.
"With your dinner?" Edward said, pointing to my plate.
"Oh, um. Yeah. However, you cooked, let me do the dishes," I said, getting up from the table.
"Bella, I can handle my own dishes," he laughed.
"Put your ass on that couch and I'll do the dishes, buddy," I said pointing to the family room. "After you tell me where you keep your plastic containers." Edward snorted and took out the containers I requested. I put the food away and began washing the dishes and putting them into his dishwasher.
Edward put on the television but wasn't really watching it. He was looking back into the kitchen guiltily. I arched a brow and gave him my best teacher glare. "Do you look at your students like that, Ms. Swan?" Edward asked warily.
"When they act like shitheads, I do," I answered.
"Remind me to never get on your bad side," Edward said with a lopsided grin.
"I'm a firm believer in bringing back corporal punishment," I said. "These kids are getting more and more disrespectful and rude as I teach. It's atrocious how they act."
"Tell me about it," Edward grumbled as he got up from the couch. He came back into the kitchen and hopped on the counter. "Yesterday, I was called in for a consult for a teenage boy. He was complaining of headaches and his wrists were bothering him. I went and saw him and he was on his gaming system, holding it up to his eyes really closely. His mother was distraught but didn't understand why he was in such pain. I took the gaming system away and he got very belligerent. He said I had no right to touch his private property. He demanded to see the boss. I told him that I was the boss and he better zip it."
"Kids are so rude," I grumbled. "Why did I become a teacher?"
"To touch the future of the world," Edward said, putting his hand on his chest and wiping a fake tear from his eye.
"To get summers off," I answered honestly.
"A ha! The truth comes out," Edward guffawed. "I knew it!"
"I sure as hell did not become a teacher for the money. Shit, I get paid jack," I said as I finished the dishes. I closed the dishwasher and put the cloth I was using on the sink. I went to walk to get my wine glass and there was a slick spot on the floor. My right foot slid out from underneath me and I fell myself falling. I never reached the ground. Edward caught me before my head splattered on his beautiful tiled floor.
His eyes were frantic and he gently laid me on the floor. "Bella, are you okay? What hurts?" Edward asked in a panicked voice.
I did the experimental wiggles of all my body parts. I got to my right ankle and let out a shriek. "Right foot," I cried.
"You didn't hit your head?" Edward asked. I shook my head no and he gently picked me up, carrying me to the couch in the family room. He placed me on the soft cushions and he removed my shoe and sock. With his tender touch, he pressed and assessed my ankle. "Can you point and flex your foot?"
I did and it hurt, but not too much. "Press against my hand like your accelerating in your car," Edward demanded. I did and it still hurt. "Hmmm, it could be a sprain or a minor fracture. Do you want me to take you to the hospital and get an x-ray?"
"It's probably just a sprain," I answered. "Should I get it x-rayed?"
"I would recommend it. Seeing as I am the head honcho in the emergency department, I can pull strings to get you in and out in less than hour. We'll have to take your car because you're parked behind me. Keys, please?" Edward said as he held out his hand.
"They're in my purse in the kitchen," I said. Edward got up and brought me back my purse. I pulled out my car key and handed it to him. He picked me up and carried me out the front door. He deposited me in the passenger seat of my Pilot and he eased into the driver's side.
"Jesus, Bella. You are so short. My knees are in my navel," Edward laughed. He adjusted the seat and the mirrors.
"I'm so sorry that I'm not freakishly tall like you, Dr. Masen," I said with a sardonic grin.
"I'm not freakishly tall. Jeez," Edward said rolling his eyes. He drove us to Craven Memorial and parked in a reserved spot: Reserved for the Head of the Emergency Department. Edward got out and picked me up. "Come on, hop along."
"Shut it or I'll kick you with my good foot," I said, tweaking his ear.
"I'd like to see you try," Edward said, his green eyes blazing into mine. We walked through the main entrance and strode past the triage nurse. She smiled sweetly, greeting Dr. Masen. He grinned tightly and carried me to the x-ray suite. He caught a nurse. "Rhonda, can you grab me a chart?"
"Dr. Masen! What a surprise to see you here! Aren't you off for a few days?" Rhonda asked.
"Yes, I am. However, my friend here injured her ankle," Edward said as he pinched my side that he held. I squeaked and smacked his shoulder.
"Of course, Dr. Masen," Rhonda said as she scurried off. She returned a few moments later while we were in the x-ray suite. Edward wrote down a few things and handed it back to her. He positioned my foot and took a few films. "Here's a wheel chair, Dr. Masen. Do you want me to take her to your office?"
"I'll do it. Thanks, Rhonda," Edward smiled. He picked me up and set me in the wheel chair. Edward pushed me to his office. Dr. Edward Anthony Masen, Emergency Department Head was blazoned on the door. "Do you want anything, Bella?"
"Some ice, please," I requested. Edward nodded and darted out of his office. It was well decorated. The furniture was dark wood and the walls were in a deep green color. On the walls were all of Edward's degrees and photos of his family. Edward returned with a slipper and an icepack. He picked me up and put me on the chocolate brown leather couch in his office. He gently put on the slipper and wrapped the icepack around my rapidly swelling ankle.
"This is not how I wanted our evening to end, Bella," Edward said as he knelt in front of me. "You really are clumsy."
"Yes, I am," I snorted.
"I brought you some Tylenol-3. You are going to spend the night at my place so I can take care of you," Edward said firmly. "I have a nice guest bedroom. I also called Alice and she's stopping by your place to get you some clothes."
"Edward, I've sprained my ankles before. I'll be fine. RICE!"
"And how do you expect to get up the stairs to your condo?" Edward pressed. "Do you have an elevator? How are you going to drive? I can't release you to drive if I have to give you walking boot."
I gaped at Edward and he smiled slowly. "I've won, admit it."
"Yes, you've won, Edward," I grumbled. I held out my hand and he put the pill in my palm. He reached behind his desk and took out a bottle of water. I took the pill with the proffered water. "I'm not going to be held responsible for what comes out of my mouth in a half hour. Narcotics make me very loose."
"Oh, goody," Edward smirked. "Loose as in easy or loose as in loose lipped."
"You wish easy," I giggled. "Loose lipped. I will not be held accountable what comes out of my mouth for next twelve hours. It's the narcotics talking."
"Yes ma'am," Edward said, barely holding his smile back. "I'm going to check on your x-rays. Will you be okay here for a few moments or do I need to strap you to the couch?"
"I'll be fine, Dr. Masen," I replied. Edward gave me a look and then dashed out of his office. I sat back and closed my eyes. I could feel the narcotics course through my body and I was feeling absolutely no pain.
Edward returned a few moments later and he was carrying my x-rays. He tossed them up onto the light box in his office. He looked at them critically and smiled slightly. "It's not broken. It is a severe sprain though."
"Boot?" I slurred.
Edward turned around and looked at me. He chuckled and crouched down in front of me. "You are so stoned, Bella."
"Am not, Dr. Masen," I said. "I'm perfectly fine."
"Right. Your eyes are so glassy and you are slurring your words," Edward said. "I'm going to get you a boot and a set of crutches. Then, I'm taking you back to my place and you are going to sleep, beautiful."
"You're the beautiful one, Edward. Your eyes are so pretty," I said, cupping his cheek.
"Thank you, Bella," Edward said with a lopsided smirk. "However, I would rather get complimented when you're sober and not strung out on codeine."
"Okay, handsome doctor," I said as closed my eyes.
"Oh lord," Edward mumbled as he got up. I heard shuffling and I felt myself getting lifted. I opened my eyes but didn't really think much of it. I buried my nose in Edward's neck and nestled closer to him. He put me into my car and drove us back to his house. He carried me up the stairs and put me into a guest bedroom, tucking me into the bed. He kissed my forehead and brushed my hair from my face. I gave him a sleepy smile and fell into a deep, dreamless slumber.
xx AFS xx
I woke up to a bright, comfortable room. Where am I? I looked around and I was in a deep blue bedroom. I wasn't home. What the fuck?
I felt around the bed and found a piece of paper on the pillow. It was a note. From Edward.
Dear Bella,
You were quite out of it when we got back from hospital. Did you know that you are a chatterbox when you sleep? It was quite adorable. I have to say that the nickname that you gave me made me laugh. Anyhow, your boot is by the foot of the bed, along with a set of crutches. I've also left a toothbrush and t-shirt in the bathroom for you.
I apologize for the note, but I didn't want to wake up to explain this and you would have not remembered it anyway.
Yours,
Edward
Okay, so that explains where I am at. I looked at the foot of the bed and saw a lovely black boot. I growled and threw on the sock that was inside and slipped it on my foot. I grabbed the crutches and hobbled to the bathroom in the bedroom and saw the toothbrush and t-shirt as Edward promised. I washed my face and brushed my teeth. I slipped the t-shirt onto my body and folded the old one. I pulled my hair back into a sloppy ponytail and crutched to door. I was about to open it when Edward did so. "Morning, sleepyhead," he said cheerily.
"I'm so hung-over," I groaned.
"I gathered that. So I made some good hangover food," Edward said as he held up a tray. "In bed, gimpy."
"Bite me," I retorted.
"Hmmmm…maybe later," Edward teased.
I got back into the bed and Edward placed the tray over my legs. On it was a stack of blueberry pancakes, sausage links and a vase with a single rose. "Breakfast is served, beautiful."
"This looks great, Edward," I said, my voice rough with sleep. "Thanks for taking care of me while I was in a narcotic state of inebriation. What did I say?" I dug into my breakfast and groaned inwardly at the deliciousness that was the blueberry pancakes.
"Not a whole lot. Though, you did call me Dr. McFuckme," Edward said. "That's a new one."
"Shit."
"Alice told me about that nickname, but to hear it from you just made it classic," Edward laughed. "You also had some rather vocal dreams last night."
"And you didn't kick me out? I'm so screwed," I moaned.
"Bella, please. I'm kidding," Edward said as he tucked a hair behind my ear. "The only thing that threw me for a loop was the nickname. Dr. McFuckme. I like it."
"Well, you exude sex appeal, Edward," I said, a blush creeping over my features. "It's the hair, the eyes and the body. Not to mention your fucking brilliant."
"Bella, my hair is a hot mess. So many damn cowlicks. It looks like I stuck my finger in an electric socket," Edward said self-deprecatingly.
"I like it," I said as I ruffled his soft tresses. "Hmmm, very soft and thick. Nice."
"That's not all that's thick," Edward said seductively.
"Patience. I'm gimpy now," I said wiggling my boot-encased foot. "How long am I in this stupid thing?"
"Two weeks," Edward said. "We'll examine if you need physical therapy after the two weeks."
"So I get to wear this for the party?" I asked.
"It appears so," Edward frowned.
"Yes!" I exclaimed as I did a fist pump.
"Why are you happy about this?" Edward asked confusedly.
"I don't have to wear heels!" I smiled. I leaned forward and kissed Edward on his cheek. He inhaled sharply and looked at me with lust filled eyes as I pulled away.
"You are weird, Bella," Edward said as he shook his head. "Technically you are not to drive with that thing. However, I'm probably safe to assume that you don't want to be chauffeured around for the next two weeks, right?"
"You assume correctly. I'll take it off to drive. I promise," I said as I held up my right hand. "So am I released from Masen Medical Center?"
"I suppose," Edward grumbled. "I really enjoyed having you here. Sleep talking and all."
"Well, I'll be back here for the bachelor and bachelorette party. It's okay to have all the drunk people crash here, right?"
"Totally fine. You know me about drunk drivers," Edward said. "I'd rather they sleep it off on my couch then get behind the wheel. Speaking of getting behind the wheel, I'm going to follow you back to your place. I just want to ensure that you get home safely and have everything you need. Is that okay?"
I nodded and passed the tray to Edward. He picked it up and put it on the chest near the foot of the bed. He picked up my crutches and then looked at me with a mischievous look in his eyes. He reached for my hands and I grasped them. He helped me up and then threw me over his shoulder. "Edward!" I shrieked. "Don't be all caveman!"
He laughed and carried me down the stairs. I smacked his ass and he responded by smacking my ass before he put me on the floor and handing me my crutches. I scowled at him and he laughed again as he jogged into the kitchen and grabbed my purse. He also a bag in his hands. "Your shoe and some leftovers from last night," Edward explained. "Come on hop along. Let's get you situated at home."
I crutched out to my car and slid off the boot when I got into the car. I reached in the backseat and put on a flip flop and backed out of the driveway after I readjusted my seats so I can reach the pedals. I drove to my condo, with Edward in his Volvo on my tail. I parked my car and Edward was at my door helping me with my boot and crutches. I got up the stairs and then groaned. Edward put down the things he was carrying and told me to hold my crutches. He easily hefted me and carried me up the stairs. "You are getting quite a work out with lifting my fat ass," I called down to him.
"Bella, you are not fat," Edward chastised as he returned up the stairs with the stuff he left at the bottom. I hobbled to my condo and unlocked the door. Edward put the food into the fridge and helped me with some minor readjustments to my furniture to make it crutch friendly. "Do you want me to stay?"
"I've put you out enough, Edward. Thank you for everything, though," I said as I settled back into my couch cushions. "I'll just do some lesson planning and reading. I have all the necessary things: computer, books, pen and paper. I'll be fine."
"Okay," Edward said as he shuffled on his feet. "I really don't like leaving you here by yourself."
"Edward, I've been gimpy before and been on my own. I'll be fine. I promise," I said. "Thank you for everything. I really appreciate it."
He knelt down in front of me and looked me in the eyes. "If you need anything. ANYTHING! Day or night, just call me, please?" Edward asked, his eyes beseeching mine. I nodded and grasped his hands. He laced his fingers through mine and he pressed a linger kiss on my cheek and then moved to my forehead. "I'll call you later tonight, beautiful. Rest, ice, compression and elevate."
"Yes, Dr. McFuckme," I said giving him a middle finger salute.
"Smartass," he chided. "See you later, Bella."
"Bye, Edward," I smiled. He gave me a crooked smirk and he let himself out.
xx AFS xx
After a week, I was off the crutches, but still in the boot. Edward came over many times to make sure I was comfortable. And each time he brought over some sort of bouquet of flowers. My condo looked like a florist shop. He felt responsible for my fall and he took it upon himself to make sure I was healing properly. It was very sweet.
Finally after another week, I was moving more comfortably and I was over at Edward's place to help with the decorations for Alice and Jasper's party on the afternoon of the party of the century. Edward, Rose and I were making his home look more festive. Well, Edward and Rose were making his home look more festive, I was just giving my input.
"I have never seen so many streamers in all my life," Edward grumbled.
"It's Alice," Rose said as she twisted the streamers around Edward's chandelier in his dining room. "What Alice wants…"
"Alice gets. Believe me, I know. I've had to deal with it for 32 years. Spoiled little elf," Edward muttered darkly.
"She's still trying to get me into heels for this party," I said as I was arranging the napkins on the cocktail table. "Hello! I'm wearing a fucking boot because I'm injured."
"Well, that was my fault," Edward said guiltily.
"What did I say, Edward?" I said, giving him a stern teacher look.
"It's not my fault," Edward said in a bored tone.
"And…?" I prompted.
"Bella's a klutz," Edward sighed. "I still feel badly. It happened in my house."
"It could have easily happened at my place or on the street or…" I argued.
"Okay, Bella. I get it. You should become a lawyer, woman," Edward said as he hopped off the chair he was on.
"No thank you," I sang. "I'll stick with stinky 8th grade boys and drama-filled 8th grade girls."
"I have to get something from your car, Bells," Rose said. "The games for tomorrow. You should see the dare cards that I got. They are fucking sweet."
"My keys are in my purse," I said as nodded my head to Edward's stairs. She ran off and got my keys. "Are you ready for this thing?"
"Ah, no," Edward said. "I enjoy a party but this is a bit much. It looks like my house got painted with pepto bismol."
"Imagine wearing a dress this color," I shuddered.
"Well, it'll look absolutely gorgeous on you, Bella," Edward said. "I have no doubt."
"I had my final fitting yesterday and it does look good. However, the alterations cost nearly as much as the dress," I grumbled.
"Why?"
"I lost a shitload of weight from when I ordered the dress to now. When I put it on when it came in, it fell off my body it was so big," I laughed. "I had so much extra fabric left over, I had a purse and a wrap made."
"Hey guys, look at these dare cards," Rose said as she burst through the front door. She plopped down on an armchair and divided the cards into half. Edward sat down next to me on the couch and took the proffered cards. "The dares are innocent to completely raunchy."
"Here's an innocent one: 'Ask a man to buy you a drink,'" I read. "I want that kind of dare."
"Seriously?" Edward squeaked. "'Ask for a set of beads Mardi Gras style.' Are you promoting flashing, Rosalie?"
"It's all in good fun, Dr. McFuckme," Rose said as she ruffled his hair.
"Bella, remind me to kick your ass when you get healthy for that lovely nickname," Edward said with a sardonic grin.
"I keep you on your toes, Dr. McFuckme," I said as poked his side. "'Kiss a woman.' Hmmm."
"Have you ever kissed a girl, Bella?" Rose asked.
Edward snorted and buried his face in his hands. I shoved him and gave him a glare. "When I was out on my bachelorette party. A lesbian made out with me. This one thinks it's hot."
"What?! I'm a guy. It's every guy's fantasy to see two girls make out or more," Edward rationalized.
"Have you ever made out with a guy, Edward?" Rose asked.
"Ummm," he floundered. "Do you want something to drink? I'm thirsty." He shot up and I grabbed the belt loop of his jeans, pulling him back on the couch.
"Spill it, Masen," I said, grabbing his chin. "You made out with a boy."
"Fuck me," Edward grumbled.
"No thanks, Eddie. You're too skinny for my taste," Rose teased.
"Did you?" I pressed, staring Edward in his green eyes. I moved closer, invading his personal space. His eyes grew darker and more dilated. He licked his lips and nodded. "Was that so hard, Edward?"
"No," he squeaked.
"Did you like it?" Rose asked.
"Hell no! It was a dare at a cast party. Remember when I told you about the one musical I was in. I made out with the guy who played 'Judas.' Ironically enough, that was my first kiss. Ever," Edward said, his cheeks turning a bright, flaming red. "Suffice it to say, I was scarred for life."
"Did you kiss girl afterward?" I teased.
"The first one I could find," Edward said quickly. "She was horrible at kissing, but she was female. She had boobs. She did not shove her tongue down my throat."
"Poor baby," Rose said as she patted Edward's knee. "Here's another raunchy one: 'Imitate giving a blowjob to a random man.'"
"Jesus," Edward said as he got up. "Please make sure I get an innocent one. I am too far removed from all things sexual to handle these as dares."
"Edward, relax. There are some that are too risqué for me and I've seen it all," Rose laughed. "I think we are good with the decorations. Come on, Bella. Alice told me that I need to make you gorgeous tonight."
"No heels, Rose," I barked.
"I have the cutest ballet flats, Bella. You'll great," Rose said. "Call us if you need anything, Edward. Thanks for the use of your house. It's a beautiful home."
"Thanks, Rose," Edward said. "See you both in a little bit."
We got up and walked out to the car. I handed Rose the keys and she drove us back to the condo. As she drove back, she told me that I was to shower and shave all parts of my body. She pulled into my parking spot and we headed into our respective places. I did as I was asked and showered. I was putting on lotion when I heard Rose come into my condo. Her hair was straightened and pulled into a sleek ponytail. She was holding a garment bag and a tackle case filled with makeup. Rose walked into my bedroom and put the garment bag on my bed. She dug around in it and handed me a small bag. "What's this?"
"Alice thought of everything. It's your underwear," Rose said.
I took out the underwear and scoffed. "This is not underwear. This is dental floss. I'm not wearing this."
As I was finishing with putting on my lotion, my phone rang. It was Alice. She griped saying I will wear the underwear that she got for me along with the outfit. The only thing that she was wavering on was the shoes and that was because told her that if I wore heels, it would hinder my recovery.
Thank you, Dr. McFuckme.
I grumbled and put on the dental floss. Rose attacked my face with the makeup and curled my hair. After an hour, I was transformed from mousy Bella to sex goddess Bella. With a boot. Rose took out my dress for the evening. It was a deep purple with thick straps. The skirt was slightly a-line and fell to right above my knees. The bodice was form fitting and my boobs were pushed up quite well. Rose also put on some jewelry on me: a chunky silver necklace, earrings and bracelet. On the foot that was not in the boot, I wore a sparkly black ballet flat. Rose was wearing a tight black dress with red 'fuck me' heels.
"You ready to head back to Edward's?" Rose asked. "He's going to spooge when he sees you. You look fucking hot, Bells."
"Really?" I asked.
"Really," Rose said with a hug. "Let's go."
She handed me a black clutch and inside was my driver's license, credit card and some lip gloss. I slipped in car keys and we walked out Rose's car. She had a cute little red BMW. She drove us back to Edward's home and parked in the driveway. We got out and walked to the front door. There were some people already there. I could see that Angela and Ben were there. Emmett was there and some other people that Jasper knew. Rose rang the doorbell and Edward opened it up. He smiled at Rose and ushered her in. He then looked at me and his eyes dilated and his jaw dropped. "Bella," he sputtered. "You are a vision."
"Thanks," I blushed as I looked up at him. He was wearing black dress pants, black dress shirt and a purple tie. "Apparently Alice wanted us to color-coordinate." I tugged on his tie. "She's subtle."
"That she is," he laughed. He took my hand and helped me into his home. "Jasper just texted me and told me that he's on his way with Alice. Are you ready for this?"
"No," I grumbled. "It'll be fun, but I don't like being the center of attention or even close to the center of attention."
"I'll be right by you, Bella. I promise," Edward said as he looked into my eyes. I nodded and squeezed his hand. He kissed my cheek and ushered me into the living room.
Angela ran up to me and hugged me tightly. "Hey, Bells! Long time no see!" she exclaimed. "How has your summer been?"
"Good. You?" I asked.
"Very good. So, are you and the good doctor an item yet?" she asked.
"No. But he's chipping away," I said as I looked at Edward. He smiled and gave me a wink as he wandered the guests. "He said he'd wait for me. I don't think the wait will be all that much longer."
"Oh, Bella. Go for it. He's gorgeous and smart and wow!" Angela gushed.
As she spoke, Alice and Jasper came in with a flourish. The crowd cheered and Rose put on a crown on Alice's head, along with a sash, proclaiming her to the be the bride. Edward put on a baseball cap on Jasper and handed him a button. Rose explained the dare cards and distributed them to everyone. Thankfully I got a relatively innocent one. 'Kiss a single man who you find attractive.' I told the crowd what the plan of the party was. As I was talking the party bus pulled up in front of Edward's home and we all loaded on. I was walking out with Edward when Alice came up to us.
"You need to wear these," she chirped as she handed us two buttons. One said 'maid of honor' and the other said 'best man.' We pinned them onto our clothes and loaded onto the bus. All of the seats were taken except for one. Edward frowned and told me to sit. "Bella, sit on Edward's lap," Alice suggested.
"Mary Alice," I warned. Edward took my hand and stood me up. He took my seat and pulled me onto his lap. "Edward, I'm too…"
"If you say fat, I will pummel you with your ballet flat," Edward said, arching his brow. "You are perfect."
"You are blind," I said.
"Not right now, I'm not. Contacts," Edward smiled.
I rolled my eyes and settled back on Edward's lap. He held tightly on my waist and he rested his chin on my shoulder. The bus pulled away from house and drove us to Cooper's Hawk. "So, what did you pull for the dare cards?"
"Not telling," Edward said.
"Is it innocent or raunchy?" I pressed.
"Hmmmm, raunchy," Edward said. "How about you? What did you pull?"
"Not telling," I laughed. "But it's innocent."
We pulled up to the winery and piled out of the bus. Edward and I walked up and explained to the hostess that we had a reservation. They led us to the party room in the winery and sommelier explained the joys of winemaking. We all had some various wines, even Edward. He limited his to one glass, but he did try it. After the wine education, we ordered dinner and ate it voraciously. Edward kept his arm around my chair all night and he kept giving me flirtatious looks and smiles. I returned his flirtations and rested my hand on his knee. He drew his lip between his teeth and he kissed my cheek. We didn't get dessert and we settled our bill. We loaded back onto the bus and he drove us to the PoleCats.
We stumbled into the strip club and sat down in the reserved section near the stage. Alice and Jasper were announced as being on the bachelor and bachelorette parties and that the dancers were going to give them a special treat. The first dancer looked like Alice and she moved to the song I requested, "Hot for Teacher." She was wearing a tight pencil skirt, white blouse and a pair of glasses and she stripped down to her g-string, grinding in front of Jasper and Alice. Rose sidled up next to me and asked if anyone had completed their dares. I shook my head no. Rose then handed me a bag. I frowned and looked inside. It was the matching shoe to the one on my good foot. I slipped off the boot and put it in the bag and put on the flat. I poked Edward and he nodded, holding me tightly. Rose took the bag and walked to the DJ. He made an announcement for us to complete our dares. The person who completes the final dare will win a prize, to be determined by the bride and groom.
Emmett hopped up and ran to the DJ booth and they spoke quickly. Alice Cooper's 'Schools Out for Summer' came through the speakers and Emmett hopped up on the stage. He started dancing in front of Alice and Jasper, removing his dress shirt. I hid my face and laughed hysterically. Alice danced in front of him, waving money and sticking it into his pants. Rose was watching Emmett with rapt attention and she wanted him to take it all off. Or rather her expression said so.
Hmmmm…Rose and Emmett. Interesting…
Edward leaned in and he whispered something in my ear, "I want to do my dare."
"Well, go ahead," I said. "What is it?"
"Give a lap dance," Edward said. "I'm giving it to you, beautiful."
"What?" I squeaked and I looked at Edward. He got up and was walking to the DJ and he requested a song. The sounds of 'Bad Case of Loving You' came through the speakers as Emmett put on his clothes. Edward moved slowly toward me and I slunk down in my seat. He reached for his tie and loosened it. Rose handed me a handful of bills. Edward stopped in front of me and started moving his hips in rhythm to the music. His tie came off and he put it around my neck. I held up a dollar bill. He took it with his teeth and put it into his pocket. Alice screamed from her seat and she pumped her fist. Jasper was bopping his head at Edward's dance and I was turning a bright red. Edward straddled my legs and he moved above me quite seductively. I held up another bill and he told me to put it my mouth. I did and he removed it from my mouth with his. He turned around and unbuttoned his shirt, but didn't remove it. He turned around and he took my hands and placed them on his chest. I ran my fingers across his muscles and through the chest hair that was smattered on his torso. The song faded away and Edward pulled away, grabbing my hands. I got up and I tugged on his hand. I stood on my tiptoes and whispered in his ear. "Now it's my turn to do my dare."
"What's that, beautiful?" he asked as we moved to the back of the club, toward the bathrooms. He rebuttoned his shirt, but left it untucked.
"To kiss a single man who I find attractive," I said. I cupped his cheeks and his eyes widened. His lips looked so delectable and I couldn't wait to feel them against mine. Edward's arms wrapped around my waist and he pulled me flush to his body. I gently pulled his face down to mine. I looked into his eyes and they gave me permission. My eyes fluttered shut and I caressed my lips with his. My fingers tangled into his slightly damp hair and our mouths moved in tandem. I felt Edward tighten his hold on me and a low growl in his belly. His tongue traced my lower lip and asked for entrance. I opened my mouth and his tongue slipped inside. I moaned and my body was on fire. I pulled away and looked into Edward's fiery gaze. "I'm tired of feeling this attraction toward you Edward and denying how I was feeling. I was foolish to even think I could not even…"
"I said I'd wait for you, Bella," Edward said, his breathing heavy. "I'm glad I did." He picked up my hand and placed it on his chest, above his heart. It was stammering in chest. Probably like mine. "Only for you, beautiful girl." He leaned down and kissed me sweetly. "I could get used to this, Bella. You have the softest lips. Just like imagined."
"Yours are better," I purred.
"Hmmm," he smiled against my mouth. "We'll just have to agree to disagree."
"It's about fucking time!" Alice shrieked.
Edward and I groaned and pulled apart. He kept his arms around me and held me tightly. "I know, Alice. I didn't want to push, so back off," Edward sighed.
"I understand," Alice said as she ran toward us, throwing her arms around both of our necks. "You are so going to be my sister, Bella."
"Okay, Elf," I said as I patted her back.
"Oh, by the way, you both won the dare game," Alice said as she pinched our cheeks. "Okay, I'll let you finish making out. Love you!"
"Hmmmm, I do like the sound of that," Edward said as he nuzzled my neck. He turned me around slowly and dipped me, kissing me deeply and passionately. "Now that I've been granted the opportunity to kiss you, Bella, I intend to. Often."
"You can as much as you want, Edward," I said against his lips.
"Good," he said.
A/N: So, they kissed. Leave me love, please :)