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 11: The Confessions

My alarm went off. I groaned and rolled over. However, I was hit with a warm body. The arms around my waist tightened and he groaned. "Too early," he grumbled.

I opened my eyes and saw a shirtless Edward in my bed. He was holding me tightly against his chest and his eyes were shut. I turned off my alarm and took the time to ogle my boyfriend. His cheeks and jaw were covered in heavy stubble. I ran my fingers through the facial hair on his face. He moaned lightly and leaned into my touch. I moved my eyes lower and looked at his body. I could see a few scars on his chest from his accident. There were two by his ribs, I'm assuming from chest tubes. There was a larger scar across his belly. I lightly traced the scar and Edward's muscles contracted. He stirred and pulled me closer to his chest. I moved my eyes up to his face and looked at the smattering of freckles across his nose and along his hairline. "Are you enjoying yourself, Isabella?" Edward asked his eyes still closed.

"Very much," I said. "I like ogling you."

An emerald eye opened and he pressed kisses along my neck and he rolled me onto my back. "I'm glad I'm 'ogle-worthy,'" Edward snorted against my neck.

"What happened to your shirt, Edward?" I teased as I tickled his sides. He giggled and gave me a stern look.

"I got hot," Edward said simply. "You know the threat you made about your toes. Insert sides for me. Elbows and fists fly when I get tickled. I don't want to hurt you."

"Yes, sir," I said. "However, why do you have this scar?" I asked as I traced the silvery skin on his belly.

"My spleen was removed," Edward said. "I have to take medication to ensure I have enough red blood cells, but other than that, I'm fine."

"Do you have that medication with you?" I asked.

"In my pants pocket," Edward said. "These are from chest tubes. Both of my lungs collapsed. The scar on my back was from when they removed one of my kidneys."

"Holy crow," I said. "Plus the head injury."

"Plus the head injury," Edward said. "I was royally fucked up for a long time. It took two years for me to be even remotely physically independent. Mentally, I was fine after a year. Despite the processing issues."

"But now you're fine," I said with trepidation.

"Yeah. If I take my medication and iron supplements," Edward said. "Other than that, I'm healthy as a horse."

"Hmmmm…" I said. "I don't want to go to work."

"Me neither," Edward sighed. "I'd rather spend the day with you in bed."

"Tempting, Masen," I teased as I got up from his arms. "I need to get ready. I would say help yourself to some coffee but I know how much you hate it."

"Ugh, yeah," Edward grumbled. He reluctantly released me and I got up. I padded to the bathroom and took care of my morning routine. I grabbed another pair of jeans and a Cherry Blossom hoodie and got dressed quickly. I walked out of the bathroom and found my bed made. I smiled and went into the living room. Edward had poured himself a glass of orange juice. "Hope you don't mind. I also swiped a bagel."

"What's mine is yours," I said as I poured coffee into my travel mug. "Not changing?"

"No. I'm going to go back to bed when I get to my place. I'd rather just undo a drawstring than unbutton a million little buttons," Edward said. He finished his orange juice and said he was going to brush his teeth. I nodded and scarfed down a bagel. Edward came back up to the kitchen and he kissed me. "I'm pretty certain you wouldn't want to kiss me with morning breath. Yuck."

"Not my favorite thing to do, but it's okay," I giggled. "Thank you for brushing your pearly whites."

I packed my computer bag and slung it over my shoulder. I also put my lanyard for school around my neck and grabbed my phone and car keys. "Ready?" Edward asked.

"Not really, but oh well," I shrugged. Edward opened the door and I walked through. He closed it and I locked it. We walked down the hall and down to our respective cars. Edward stopped in front of my car and pulled me into a tight embrace. He gently cupped my chin and kissed my lips. His mouth moved tentatively against mine and then quickly deepened. My hands moved up to his hair and tangled into his soft thick hair. "Mmmmmmmm," I moaned.

"Don't want to leave you," he whispered against my mouth.

"Me neither. However, we both have to work. You know, work? It pays the bills. Allows us to live how we want," I giggled as I kissed along his scruffy jaw. "Someone needs to shave."

"Meh," he shrugged as he pulled away. "I'll do it before our date on Wednesday. I want to be baby smooth."

"I can't wait until Wednesday," I smiled. "Have a good day."

"I will, beautiful," he said as he kissed me deeply before he got into his car. "I'll call you tonight if I get a free moment."

I waved and got into my car. I drove to school and steeled myself for another day of boring meetings. We started in the cafeteria and then broke off into team meetings. As a team, we figured out team rules and expectations. After our team meeting, Rose and I worked together to align our curriculum for our language arts classes. We spent a couple of hours on our ideas and then I checked on Jacob. He was in his classroom, putting up posters and arranging the desks.

"Hey Jacob," I said as I leaned against the door jamb.

"Hi, Bella," he smiled. "How does it look?"

"Good. I like the layout," I answered honestly. "How are you doing?"

"I'm still overwhelmed," he sighed as he sat down on the counter in his classroom. "I have so many expectations being a new teacher and reeling from this break up."

"Jacob, it's important that you should take things one step at a time. I know that you have a ton of expectations as a new teacher. But it's my job as a mentor to help you with those expectations. What's one thing that you need to do in the first few weeks of school?" I asked.

"I need to complete ten induction hours," he grumbled. "What do I do?"

"Go to the district website and log into the employee intranet. There's a part in the intranet for employee professional development. Sign up for the 'First Days of School' seminar. It's good for new teachers," I suggested. "In regards to your personal issue, don't let that consume your thoughts."

"How?" he asked. "I loved him. I was ready to propose."

"Can I tell you something?"

"What?" he mumbled dejectedly.

"I spoke with my boyfriend. He works at Craven Memorial Hospital," I said quietly.

"The good doctor," he chuckled.

"Yes, the good doctor. Anyhow, I asked him about Quil. He said that Quil was a manwhore," I said. "He's sleeping with a doctor in pediatrics and with Embry. He also put the moves on my boyfriend."

"He lied to me?" Jacob asked. "He said he was faithful when I was with him. That asshole. I gave him my heart and he did an Irish jig on it."

"Were you safe?" I asked, worried about my new friend.

"Not always," Jacob grumbled. "Should I get tested?"

"It would be prudent," I said. "I'm so sorry, Jacob. So sorry."

"Bella, I appreciate the information. I really do. Do you think your doctor would get me tested?" he asked, looking at me like a lost little boy.

"Let me check," I said as slipped out my cell phone. I tapped out a text. Jacob, the teacher who I told you about and involved with Quil was not necessarily safe with you know. Can you test him? – Bella

I put my phone on the desk and patted Jacob's hand. "It'll be okay, Jacob."

"Jake. I like to be called Jake," he said giving me a sad smile.

"Deep breaths, Jake," I said. My phone chirped on the desk and I picked it up. He can come in any time to get tested. Come in with him and ask for me at the triage desk. – Edward

"You want to go now?" I asked.

"Yeah," Jake said with a shaky breath. "What if?"

"You'll cross that bridge when you get the results," I said. "Do you want to drive or come with me?"

"I'll drive," he said. We locked up Jake's room and then headed into my room. I grabbed my bag and we headed out. Jake followed me in a large red truck to Craven Memorial. I parked the car and Jake was parked next to me. We walked into the emergency room. I walked up to the triage desk and was greeted by Rhonda, the charge nurse.

"Can I help you?" she asked kindly.

"I need to speak with Dr. Masen. He's expecting me. Bella Swan," I said with a smile.

"Ah, yes. The young lady who finally made Dr. Masen smile," she grinned. "I'll page him. Hold on."

She picked up the phone and had Edward paged to the triage desk. A few moments later, Edward came up to the triage desk, wearing some scrubs and a white lab coat. He shaved his beard and he was wearing his glasses. "Hey beautiful," he said as he kissed my cheek.

"Hi, Edward," I said returning his kiss. "This is Jacob Black."

Edward turned to Jacob and shook his hand. "Let's head back to a room and we'll get things all settled. Okay?"

"Can Bella come back with me?" Jacob asked in a small voice. It was so sad to see such a larger than life man crumble. "I've got no one. My mom died when I was a kid and I just lost my dad this past winter."

"If Bella has no objections," Edward smiled. He looked at me and his eyes were filled with adoration and love. I put my arm around Jake's waist and we were led to the curtain area where I was examined when I hurt my hand. Jacob hopped up on the table. Edward took out the necessary materials to draw some blood. He put on some gloves and asked Jake some questions, writing down the answers on the chart. Jake rolled up his sleeve after Edward asked his questions and he drew some blood, labeling it with a number. "I can do a rapid HIV screen if you want?"

"I want to get it all tested," Jake said quietly. "Whatever it takes."

"Okay, Jake. I'll be right back," Edward said as picked up the tubes of blood. He strode out of the room and Jacob's eyes filled with tears.

"It'll be okay, Jake," I said.

"I'm afraid, Bella," he said in a broken voice. "The love of my life screwed with me in more ways than one."

I put my arms around his neck and he sobbed into my shoulder. I held him until I heard Edward come back into the room. His face was solemn. I pulled away and kept my hand on Jake's shoulder. "So, what's the verdict, doc?"

"I did a rapid HIV screen and I put the rest of the blood through the rest of the tests. Jacob, there's no easy way to say this, but your HIV test was positive," Edward said sadly. "You need to notify all of your past partners. I'm so sorry."

Jacob looked at Edward and tears fell down his russet cheeks. "You're certain?"

"The rapid test is 99% effective. I did send the rest of your blood to be tested. I'll contact you with the final results when they come in. It usually takes about twelve to twenty-four hours," Edward said quietly. "Do you have anyone you can talk to?"

"No. Nobody," Jake said sadly. "I'm so royally fucked."

Edward rolled up a stool and took Jake's hands into his own. "There are so many new medicines for HIV. It's no longer a death sentence, Jake. You are not fucked."

"Jake, you're not alone," I said, squeezing his shoulder. "I know it's scary as hell, but you'll be fine."

"Can I get a moment?" Jake asked, looking at both of us. "I need to call Quil and inform him of the news. Though, he probably already knows since he's the one who gave it to me."

"Are you sure?" Edward asked.

"He's the only man I'd been with without a condom," Jacob sighed.

"I'll be right outside," Edward said as he led me into the hallway. He pulled the door shut and he leaned against the wall. "I could kill Quil."

"Where's the spork?" I seethed.

"Rusty spoon," Edward chuckled darkly. "What do you think will happen?"

"I don't know," I mumbled. "I need to be there for him. He's got no one, Edward."

"You are fucking amazing, Bella Swan," Edward said as he caressed my cheek. "Your heart is so full of love and compassion, it's mind boggling."

"You too, Edward. Most people would look at Jake and be freaked out. Not want to touch him, but you held his hands and reassured him," I said, wrapping my arms around his waist. Edward kissed my head and he leaned his cheek against my hair. We stood there for immeasurable amount of time when we heard a guttural scream. Edward released me and he rushed into the room and he found Jake curled up in the corner, sobbing hysterically.

"He knew! That mother fucker knew and he infected me," he cried. "I'll kill him. He ruined my goddamned life!"

Edward got on the floor and pulled Jake into his arms. Jake clung to Edward and sobbed into his shoulder. Edward looked at me and mouthed "Rhonda." I nodded and scurried to get his charge nurse. I found her at the nurse's station. "Rhonda? Dr. Masen needs you."

"Is this about the young man you came in with?" she asked.

"Yeah," I said.

"I'll call the counselor and HIV specialist," she said kindly. "They're on standby."

"Okay, thanks," I nodded. I walked back to the room and Jake was still crying against Edward. Edward was rubbing soothing circles on his back and I could see his anguish. I plopped down on the floor and took Jake's hand. He pulled away from Edward and he laid his head in my lap. "It'll be okay, Jake. You're not alone. I know that we're co-workers, but I hope that you will let me be your friend."

"You're definitely a friend, Bella," he said against my leg. "My best friend so far."

"She's good like that," Edward said as he drew his knees to his chest. "Jake, I know I'm your doctor, but you can talk to me, too."

"What's the next step?" Jake asked.

"You'll be put on a cocktail of medications to keep your viral load down. However, you need to take care of yourself. Your body is susceptible to infection now," Edward explained. "It's important that you follow the cocktail of medications and you should lead a long and healthy life. You will need to wear a condom if you are ever intimate with another man."

"Who says I'll be with anybody?" Jake muttered sarcastically. "I'm tainted."

"Jacob, you are not tainted," Edward said. "You have a manageable illness. You just need to be more careful than most. You will find someone special who will love you despite your illness and imperfections. If they can't love you because of them, then fuck 'em."

"I like you, Dr. Masen," Jake laughed.

"Edward. If we're going to be friends, it's Edward," he smiled. "It's okay to be pissed off and upset at Quil. However, you can't let it consume your life. My wife died three years ago. She was 31 and we had just found out that she was pregnant. She was killed by a drunk driver. If I let the grief that I felt when she died consume me, I wouldn't be here. I would be, honestly, six feet under. Was I pissed? Yes. Was I sad? Unbearably so. Do I miss her? Every day. I needed to move on with my life. It took me three years, two therapists, a strong family and an entire country of distance to figure that out. You will deal with this in your own way. But you will have a support system in Bella, in me and I'm certain my aunt and uncle will adopt you too."

Jacob giggled and looked at Edward. "So, it's not a death sentence."

"Only if you don't take care of yourself and don't take your medicine," Edward explained. "I'll also suggest to your doctor to give you an antidepressant. It'll help with these feelings you're having."

"Are you sure you're not a shrink?" Jake snorted.

"That was my second choice in specialties," Edward smiled.

"Do you want me to call Mrs. Cope, Jake?" I asked.

"No. I'll be fine," Jake smiled. "I can't miss the first day of school. Shit, do I need to tell my employer?"

"No. You're medical history is confidential. The only time you need to inform them is you have an open wound and you're bleeding everywhere," Edward said. "I'm certain that your school made you watch the blood borne pathogen video."

"Yes. It was riveting," I said sardonically.

"I can imagine," Edward laughed. "However, be cautious. Don't take unnecessary risks."

"Got it," Jake said.

A quiet knock rang through the small room. A tiny woman with blue eyes and blond hair appeared. "Hi! I'm Dr. Jane Hetfield. I'm looking for Jacob Black?"

"That's me. Bella, thanks for coming. I know that you have to go. I appreciate you being here," Jake said.

"That's what friends are for, Jake. Give me a call or text me when you get home, okay?"

"Yeah," he smiled. Jake turned his attention to Dr. Hetfield.

Edward led me out of the room. He pulled on my hand and dragged me back to his office. He closed the door and caged me with his arms. His eyes were piercing through mine and his lips crashed against my mouth. I moaned and snaked my hands up to his hair. We were a tangle of limbs and tongues. I broke away from Edward's passionate kiss to catch my breath. He kept his lips on my skin and he nibbled along my jaw and down my neck. His hands moved down my sides and cupped my ass. "You are so amazing, Bella," he said between rough kisses. His hands moved lower on my legs and he picked me up by my thighs, wrapping my legs around his waist. I squeaked and kissed his swollen lips. "So compassionate. So loving. So perfect," he growled. He licked the shell of my ear and purred, "Mine."

"Oh god," I moaned. My hands tangled into his hair and I wiggled my hips against his arousal that was straining in his scrubs. He snarled erotically and his tongue plunged into my mouth. One of his hands moved up my body and he caressed my rib cage, fingers dancing under my breasts. As we kissed, I felt a vibration against my leg. Edward groaned and gently placed me on the ground. He pulled away and his eyes were feral and wild. They probably matched mine. I was breathing heavily and I was thoroughly soaked through my panties. Edward pulled out his cell phone and he frowned. "What?"

"Car accident," he grumbled. "I'm needed in the trauma room. To be continued, tomorrow. Be ready, Ms. Swan."

"Oh, I will be," I smirked. Edward kissed me chastely and I felt him adjust his erection. "Have enough blood to your brain?"

"No," he moaned. "But I'll live. You are a dangerous creature, Bella. However, I can't imagine my life without you now."

"Me neither, Edward," I sighed.

Paging Dr. Masen. You are needed in trauma room one. Dr. Masen, trauma room one.

"They're paging me. That's never good. I'll walk to you to the nurse's station," Edward said as he twined his fingers with mine. We moved quickly through the corridors of the hospital. Edward deposited me at the nurse's station. Rhonda said she'd show me out. He kissed me chastely on the lips and then ran to the trauma room.

"He's got it bad, Ms. Bella," Rhonda giggled. "He's so in love with you, girl."

"You think?" I asked.

"I don't think. I know," Rhonda said. "My George looks at me the way Dr. Masen looks at you. Like you're the only woman in the entire universe. You look at him the same way, child."

"I do?"

"Uh huh," Rhonda said knowingly. "He's been through hell and back. His uncle told me his story. He deserves someone special. That's you, Ms. Bella. Love him. Don't be afraid. Just love him."

I watched Edward work smoothly in the trauma room. His eyes were focused on the task and he was very confident in his actions. I was truly in awe of his decisions in the situation and how coolly he handled it. "Thanks, Rhonda," I said quietly. "You have a good night."

"You too, Ms. Bella," Rhonda said with a wink. I walked out of the ER and to my car. Jake's truck was gone. On my windshield was a note.

Dear Bella,

You have no idea what it means to me that you stayed with me while I got the worst news in my short life. I've never been so scared and alone. However, you were there for me and so was the good doctor. I am hopeful that things will turn out okay. I met with Dr. Hetfield and she set me up with the triple cocktail. I begin it tomorrow. I'm also going to work with a counselor and deal with this anger I feel toward Quil.

With your friendship, I will get through this. I appreciate everything you've done for me. Thank Edward for me for his professionalism and compassion. He is truly an amazing man and a wonderful doctor. I'll see you tomorrow, bright and early with the kiddos. Good times, good times.

Jake

I smiled and got into my car. I drove home and showered as soon as I got there. I ate a microwave dinner and mentally prepared for the day tomorrow. I read my lesson plans and chose my clothes for the first day. I decided to wear a dress with a pair of ballet flats. Edward would not be pleased, but I wanted to look nice for my students. I also chose some nicer lingerie to wear under my dress. Not that Edward would see it, but I wanted to wear it to feel sexy and desirable to him.

I sent a text to Jake, saying I was thinking about him and that if he needed to talk he could call anytime. He texted back with a smiley and said he would be okay. He just wanted to kill his ex-boyfriend with a pitchfork. Not that I blamed him. I wanted to castrate him with a runcible spoon and then feed his balls to himself. Bastard.

I was putting on some lotion when my phone chirped. It was a text from Edward.

I can't wait until tomorrow, my beautiful girl. I definitely want to continue what we started in my office – Edward

Are you horny, Edward? – Bella

Three and half years, Bella. You do the math – Edward

Rosie Palmer – Bella

Doesn't cut it anymore. I want the real thing. I want you – Edward

Well, good things come to those who wait – Bella

Believe me, I'll wait – Edward

Forever if I have to – Edward

Though I don't want to – Edward

Persistent much? – Bella

Yep – Edward

You are too much, Dr. Masen – Bella

But you like me ;) – Edward.

I more than just like you, Edward – Bella

Really? – Edward

Yes, really – Bella

I've got to go to bed, Dr. McFuckme. What time should I expect you tomorrow? – Bella

Is five alright? – Edward

Excellent. – Bella

Then five it is! Good night, my beautiful girlfriend – Edward

Sleep well, Edward – Bella

I curled up in bed and fell against the pillows. I grabbed one of the pillows that Edward slept on last night and it smells like him. I inhaled deeply and smiled against it. Holding the pillow I fell into a deep sleep and had lascivious dreams about my hot doc boyfriend.

xx AFS xx

The school year started with a bang. My students were awesome, for the most part. My regular language arts class will be a bit of a challenge. I had a number of special education students, but I have a support teacher in with me from the special education team. Unfortunately, it was Lauren. Jessica's best friend at Cherry Blossom. Lauren hates my guts. And I hate hers. However, I could be professional. But could she is the question.

Hmmmmmmmmmm….

After school, I went and checked on Jake. He looked tired and his eyes were red. "Hey Jake. How are you doing?"

"Been better," he mumbled.

"I got your note on my car," I said as I sat down in one of the desks. "Have you started?"

"Yeah. This morning. There are so many rules," Jacob sighed. "It's overwhelming. However, Dr. Hetfield gave me a name of a support group. I'm going there tomorrow for my first meeting. Wish me luck."

"Good luck," I said. "You'll be fine. How was your first day with the kids?"

"They're good," he smiled. "A have a couple squirrely bunches, but nothing I can't handle."

"Do you have any classes that require a support teacher?" I ask.

"Yeah. My 5th hour. Lauren is my support teacher. What a bitch," he laughed. "She's so rude to the kids and completely unprofessional toward me. I know I'm young, but I'm still an authority figure in MY classroom."

"She might be problematic. I'll bring it up at team leaders," I said. "Anyhow, I wanted to see how you were doing."

"I'm surviving," Jake sighed. "Thanks, Bells."

"No problem, Jake. Call me if you want to talk."

He nodded and walked to his desk. I waved and went back to my classroom. I picked up the papers I had assigned and collected and shoved them into my work bag. I also put my plan book into my bag as well. I walked out to my car and ran into Alice in the parking lot. She was hissing on the phone and moving her hand emphatically. "Alice?"

She held up one finger and growled. She ended the call without saying good bye and glared at the offending piece of technology. "My photographer just canceled for the wedding."

"I'm sorry, Elf," I said with a frown.

"Stupid ass."

"Do you have any other options?" I asked.

"No," she wailed. "What was the name of your photographer from your wedding?"

"I honestly don't remember. The pictures that he took were not all that good. I took better photos with my piddly little camera from the head table," I giggled. "Couldn't you do a Google search?"

"Looks like I'm going to have to. The good thing is that the photographer is going refund all of my money. However, it pisses me of something awful that he waited to LAST MINUTE," Alice yelled at her phone, "to cancel."

"Did you say photographer?" Jake asked.

"Yeah," Alice sighed. "My wedding photographer canceled at the last minute and I'm afraid that I won't get the quality photos I desire."

"I'm not a professional photographer, assigned to a company or anything, but I've shot a few weddings. I can bring my portfolio tomorrow if you're interested," Jake said with a nervous smile.

"Really? That would be wonderful, Jake! Thank you," Alice said as she ran up to him and gave him a fierce hug. "We'll talk tomorrow during lunch, okay?"

"Sure, sure," Jake said as he returned Alice's embrace. It was humorous to see the size difference between the two. Jake was nearly two feet taller and Alice and twice as wide. "Have a good night, ladies."

"Bye, Jake," I said as I waved.

Alice waved eagerly and watched Jake get into his car. He pulled away and Alice pounced. "Something's up with him. You know."

"I do know, but it's not my place," I said. "If he wants to tell you, he will."

"Poor guy," Alice said sympathetically. "Have fun tonight. Don't do anything I wouldn't do."

"Alice, I'm don't know if anything is going to happen. We've kissed and kind of made out yesterday," I said, rolling my eyes. "I am not ready for a physical relationship. I need to take things slowly."

"Let nature take its course, Ms. Swan," Alice winked. She went into her car and gave me a bag. I looked inside and saw a box of condoms. "Just in case."

I blush furiously and give her a sharp glare. She winked and got into her Beetle. I walked slowly to my car and got in. I swung by the store and picked up some appetizers and some soda. When I got home, I lit a few candles and tidied my condo. I put on some quiet music. I freshened my makeup and then settled on my couch to grade the papers I had brought home with me.

I was nearly done with my grading when my intercom buzzed. I walked over and Edward's velvety voice piped through the tinny speaker. I buzzed him up and a few moments later, a quiet knock came on my door. I unlocked it and saw a very nervous, but extraordinarily handsome Edward standing outside my condo. He was wearing a pair of khaki pants and black t-shirt that accented his muscled chest. His hair was somewhat tamed and his green eyes were sparkling. He didn't have on his glasses. On his feet were a pair of black Chucks. In his arms was a bag from La Bella Italia and large bouquet of red roses. His eyes rake over me and his eyes dilated and he licked his lips. "You're exquisite, Bella."

I looked down at my black and green dress and blushed at his admission. "Thank you, Edward. Come on in," I said as I stepped aside. He put the bag from the restaurant on the kitchen counter and he laid the flowers on the table. He wound his arms around my waist and he lips crashed against mine. I moaned and snaked my hands up and down his back, resting on his ass, giving it a little squeeze. Edward squeaked and he pulled away, arching his brow. "What? You have a cute ass."

"Thank you," Edward blushed. "Though you've never squeezed it."

I pinched his right ass cheek and he jumped, dancing away. He held up a finger in warning and I giggled. I picked up the flowers and inhaled deeply. "Thank you for the roses," I smiled into the red blooms. "Can you grab the vase above the sink, handsome?" Edward nodded and grabbed the crystal vase I indicated. I trimmed the roses to fit and arranged them on my dining room table. Edward put the food into serving dishes and had set my kitchen table.

"Dinner is served, Ms. Swan," he said with a deep bow.

"Edward, I could have done that," I chastised. "You're a guest in my home."

He shrugged and pulled out my chair. He went into the bag and pulled out a bottle of white wine. "Pinot Gris," Edward said. "Where's the wine opener?" I reached behind me and pulled it out. Edward uncorked the wine and took out two glasses.

"You're drinking?" I squeaked.

"Bella, I make a conscious decision not to drink. However, it doesn't mean I haven't had any. I had my drunk moments in college, when I could walk home. Besides, it's a celebration."

"What are we celebrating?" I asked as he handed me my glass.

He poured a glass for himself and put the wine on the table. "A few things. The first, to a new school year. I hope it goes well," Edward smiled as he clinked my glass. I grinned and sipped the wine. He did the same. "Second, to Craven Memorial. We got the preliminary approval to upgrade and become a level two trauma center."

I clapped my hands and bounced in my chair. "Congratulations Edward! That's wonderful news." I picked up my glass and took another sip of wine.

"Finally, to us. To our relationship. Our fresh start," Edward said, his eyes holding their gaze with mine. I put my glass down and got up from my chair. I gingerly sat down in Edward's lap and took his handsome face into mine, never breaking eye contact. I ran my thumb across his bottom lip and he leaned his forehead against mine. "Bella," he whispered.

"What, Edward?" I asked quietly.

"Don't freak out, please."

"Why would I freak out?" I questioned. "Are you breaking up with me?"

Edward shook his head and his gaze intensified. He took my face in his large, warm hands and looked deep into my eyes. He removed one hand and took one of my hands and placed in on his chest, above his heart. In all of my 32 years, had I never been in such an intimate moment. Ever. "I…Bella, I love you," he whispered as his eyes filled with tears. "I thought I never would feel this way ever again. My heart stammers for you. I understand if you're not ready to say it in return, but I can't hold it back anymore. Seeing you with Jake last night solidified my feelings. You are truly an amazing woman and I'm so lucky to have you as mine. I love you. I'm in love with you and I can't imagine my life without you."

My tears fall down my cheeks and I stare at this beautiful man who had given me the most heartfelt confession of love that I'd ever heard. It's only something that you hear in the movies. Or in books. Never in real life. His own cheeks are damp with tears and he gives me a crooked smirk. The most perfect smile. I lean in and caress my lips with his. I slowly drew in his lower lip between my teeth and nibble slightly. A low growl radiates through his body and his arms wrap around my waist. Before our kiss had become to heated and pulled away and I gently cupped his face. His eyes were still filled with the love and adoration from before. "Edward, you're right in the fact that I'm not ready to say those 'three words.' However, what I feel for you is all consuming. What I feel for you is a hundred times more than what I felt for Mike. That honestly scares me. I laid my heart on the line and I got hurt. I'm afraid if I do it again, I'll get hurt again."

"Bella…I would never hurt you," he said fervently.

"I know that, but the fear is something that I need to get over," I said quietly. "I want to give you all of me. My heart, my brain, my body and my love. However, they are not communicating with each other. My body is screaming yes, but my brain is hesitant. I want to give you my heart, but I'm afraid fully loving someone without getting hurt irreparably."

"I'm okay with the fact that you are not ready to say it in return, Bella. I get that. I do. Like I said before, I just can't deny how I'm feeling. I know that we just started to officially see each other, but these feelings I've had for you began when I first saw you in my ER with the injured hand," Edward said as he picked up my left hand and kissed each of my fingers.

"Edward, you barely know me," I whispered. "How can you love me?"

"Do you want to know when I knew that I was in love with Tanya?" Edward asked. I nodded slowly. "I knew on our first date. I knew after our third date that I was going to marry her."

"What if I'm not good enough for you? I'm just a teacher and you're doctor," I mumbled.

"If we didn't have teachers, then we wouldn't have doctors. Bella, you are all I want. You're all I think about. I can't imagine my life without you in it. We have our differences, but it's those differences that make us stronger as individuals and as a couple. I want to be with you, in every way. Mentally, emotionally and physically. I want to show you how much I love you and I intend to, my beautiful girl. Be prepared to be spoiled," he smirked.

I ducked my head and brushed my hair off my face. Edward's fingers trace the contours of my chin and they gently moved down across my collarbone. "Please be patient with me, Edward. I want to say those words in return, but…"

"I know, Bella," he whispered. He kissed me sweetly and looked into my eyes. "I love you. Always."

A/N: Unexpected twist with Jake. Edward is horny and confesses is love. Bella is equally as horny but is hesitant to act. Leave me some love…more love, the fast the lemons come. Ha ha! Get it? Come? Gawd, I need a life.