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.

Thank you so much for reading and reviewing. It means so much to me. More than you can imagine. These stories (this one in particular) are my babies and I adore the reviews and comments I receive. Much, much love to ALL of you!

Chapter 15: The Funeral

"Bella! Open your eyes for me, baby," Edward frantic voice permeated my subconscious. "Please, baby."

I felt a rock in the middle of my chest. I grimaced and curled up."Response to painful stimuli, Dr. Masen." Edward growled and he brushed my hair off my face.

"Bella, please. I need to see those beautiful brown eyes. Open your eyes for me," Edward crooned in my ear. My eyelids fluttered. "Come on, sweetheart." I blinked my eyes but then clamped them shut.

"Too bright," I croaked. I heard a shuffle and the warmth I felt on my body disappeared.

"Try now, Bella," Edward whispered. I opened my eyes and it was darker. I relaxed and sighed deeply. "Bella, Dr. Gerandy is going to examine you."

"No, you," I whimpered.

"I can't. You're family. I can't be impartial. I'll stay with you, okay?" Edward said as he kissed my head. Oh my pounding, ringing head.

Wait, did he just call me family?

"I love you, my beautiful girl," Edward whispered in a broken voice.

I looked at Dr. Gerandy. He was an older gentleman with kind hazel eyes and an impish grin. "Hello, Bella. How are you feeling?"

"Tired. Nauseous. Dizzy. My head killing me," I said quietly. Dr. Gerandy shone a pen light in my eyes and made note of something in my chart. He then picked up my hands, instructing me to squeeze. I did. He told me to squeeze harder. I did, minutely. Dr. Gerandy then felt around the back of my head. I winced when he hit a particularly tender spot. Edward's hand reached for mine and laced through my fingers.

"Rhonda, I want a CT scan," Dr. Gerandy said brusquely. "Also, some mild pain killers. Are you allergic to narcotics, Bella?"

"Not allergic. They make me stoned," I answered sleepily.

"Give her darvocet, Rhonda. Thank you," Dr. Gerandy said. Rhonda wrote down his orders on my chart and scurried out of the room after she gave me a reassuring smile. "Will you be alright with Dr. Masen?"

"I think I can manage," I joked lightly. "Thanks."

Dr. Gerandy left after patting my hand. As soon as he left, I looked at Edward. My eyes wild. "What happened?"

"What do you remember?" Edward asked as he took my hands. "Be honest, love."

"Coming home from work and then here," I said, shaking my head, trying to rattle the cobwebs out. "Edward, I'm so confused."

Edward gingerly took me into his arms and held me tightly. "I know, Bella."

"Please, tell me what happened," I wailed into his chest.

"I buzzed up to your place and you didn't answer. I tried again with the same result. I then buzzed Rose and she let me into the condo. She met me at the stairs with a spare set of your keys. We opened your door and I found your ex-husband straddling your waist and pounding your head against the kitchen floor," Edward said, his emerald eyes filling with tears. Then his face turned in a murderous glare. "I was ready to kill him, Bella. It took all of my restraint to not pummel his face with my fists. I held him down until the cops showed up."

"What happened with Mike?" I asked as I put my hand on Edward's face. His angry glare softened and he looked into my eyes. He kissed the palm of my hand, holding it to his face.

"He's under arrest. For violating the order of protection and for attacking you," Edward replied.

"Do I need to talk to the cops?"

"Yeah. You need to press charges," Edward said. "I was so afraid, my Bella. Each time I saw him push you into the floor, my heart broke."

"I'm fine, Edward," I said.

"No, you're not. Based on what I saw and your symptoms, you have moderate concussion. You're off work for the next week," Edward said sternly.

"What? I can't! I don't have plans made up. I only have plans for Wednesday," I said, trying to get up.

"Bella, you're covered. Rose will do your plans. She already said she would," Edward said as he kept me on the gurney. "She's also called Mrs. Cope and arranged for your sub. You're fine."

"But…"

"Also, you're not going back to your condo until you get your locks changed. You're staying with me," Edward said, daring me to defy him.

"But, I have no clothes. I have the funeral on Wednesday," I listed.

"When you're released, we'll go back to your place and get you some clothes. I'll be attending the funeral with you on Wednesday. You won't be able to drive. The risk of seizure is minute, but it's there. I would hate for you to go into a seizure while driving and…" he trailed.

"Okay, Edward," I said, not wanting to argue. I was too tired and in too much pain to argue.

"Here you go, Ms. Bella," Rhonda said as she returned with two pills and a bottle of water. I took them and sipped the water. It made my stomach turn. I smiled weakly at her and curled on my side.

Edward gently caressed my cheeks. He stared into my eyes and he held my hand as his eyes filled with anguish and pain. "I can't lose you, Bella. I just can't. I thought the worst," he whispered.

"Dr. Masen? I'm here to take Ms. Swan to get her CT scan," a pretty nurse said.

"Thanks, Laurie," Edward said. "I'm going with her."

"Sure, Dr. Masen." She unlocked my gurney and 'drove me' down the hallway. Edward laced his fingers with mine and walked beside my gurney. We got into the CT suite and Edward helped me into the machine. "Are you pregnant, Ms. Swan?"

"No," I blushed.

"Okay. Just lay back and this'll be over in a jiffy," Laurie smiled. "Dr. Masen, you need to stand behind the protection screen."

"Fine," he grumbled. He kissed my lips lightly. "Love you, Bella."

"Love you, too," I whispered against his lips. He squeezed my hip and went into the small room with Laurie. Ten minutes later, the scan was done and I was wheeled back to my room. I was also feeling my darvocet. My eyes were drooping and the overall stone feeling was consuming me. I grinned lazily at Edward. "You know what, Dr. Masen?"

"Oh lord. Stoned Bella is back," he chuckled.

"Am not," I slurred. "Okay, maybe a little. Back to what I wanted to say. You're fucking gorgeous."

Edward blushed and laughed. "Thank you, beautiful. How's your head?"

I ran my fingers through my hair. "It's there," I giggled. "But it hurts."

"I know, love," Edward sighed. "I'll take you home soon. Then you can rest."

"Will you wear a nurse's uniform? Can I get a sponge bath?" I crooned.

"Sorry, baby. I don't have the ass for the uniform, but I'm more than happy to give you a sponge bath," he grinned. The door opened and Dr. Gerandy came back. "How is she?"

"Moderate concussion. I was concerned about a possible skull fracture, but you've got a hard head, Ms. Swan," Dr. Gerandy said. "Unfortunately, you will need to take it easy for the next couple of days. I'm certain Dr. Masen won't let you go to work until next week. I concur."

"Dr. Mc…" I started. Edward looked at me, arching a brow. "Masen told me as such."

"Good. Since you're under the care of one of the best in country, I'm okay with releasing you. Do you have any questions, Ms. Swan?" Dr. Gerandy asked.

I shook my head and leaned back on the gurney, wincing as the back of my head hit the pillow. I closed my eyes and heard Edward and Dr. Gerandy speak in hushed tones. I eventually drifted. "Bella? Wake up, love," Edward soothed. "You need to get into the wheel chair."

I cracked my eyes opened and got out of the gurney. I felt dizzy and Edward wrapped his arms around my waist, steadying my jittery body. He all but carried me to the wheel chair and we left the emergency room. His silver Volvo was in the ambulance bay. He helped me into the backseat, laying me on the soft leather upholstery. He climbed into the driver's side and drove back to his home. I think. I don't remember as I was dead to the world. I woke up around two in the morning in Edward's bedroom. I was disoriented and confused. Plus my stomach was churning, not in a good way.

I stumbled out of Edward's bed and crawled to the bathroom, barely making it to the toilet to throw up. I heaved until I had nothing left. Edward came into the bathroom with a cold washcloth. I leaned against the wall, entirely spent.

"You okay?" Edward asked. I shook my head. He put the washcloth on my forehead and he felt my cheeks. "No fever. How's your head?"

"It's pounding," I whispered, grimacing at the pain I felt. "Make it stop."

"I'm hesitant to give you anything stronger," Edward sighed. "You shouldn't be sleeping with a head injury. You could lapse into a coma. I have some more darvocet from Dr. Gerandy. Would you like some of that?"

"Yeah. And something for my stomach. It's doing flip flops, triple axels, and karate kicks," I joked weakly.

"Okay, love. Stay there," he said as he caressed my cheek. I heard him get up and leave the bathroom. I curled up on the small rug by the toilet, wanting nothing more than the pain to stop. A few moments later, Edward returned with a bottle of Gatorade and three pills. I eyed them warily. "Two darvocet and a reglan. It's an anti-nausea medication."

I took the Gatorade and tossed the pills down my throat. I hesitantly sipped the Gatorade, swallowing the three tablets. I struggled to get up and Edward assisted me. I walked slowly out of the bathroom with Edward's assistance. He laid me on the bed, covering me with a blanket. As soon as my head hit the pillow, I was out.

xx AFS xx

I woke up late the next morning. I was in Edward's comfortable bed and I was alone. I felt on his side and it was cold. He probably had to go to work. I flopped back onto the bed and curled around his pillow. I was dozing when I heard the door open. I hummed and hugged the pillow tighter to my chest.

"Wake up, lazybones," Edward said.

I groaned and burrowed deeper into the pillows. Edward gently removed his pillow from my hands, taking its place. Much better. He wrapped one of his arms around my waist the other moved to my head. He gently ran his fingers over my huge lump on the back of my skull. I winced and gripped his waist tighter. "Sorry, baby. How are you feeling?"

"Blah," I answered. "I feel blah."

"Descriptive, Bella," Edward said dryly. "You need to give me more than that."

"My head is hurting, but not as badly as last night or rather this morning. I'm hungry but I am hesitant to eat anything. I'm a little dizzy and disoriented."

"Not as promising as I'd hoped. I don't like the dizzy comment," Edward said, frowning. "Squeeze my fingers. I want to test your neurologic function."

"Edward," I groaned.

"Humor me. Squeeze my damn fingers," Edward said, arching a brow. He held out his hand and took the two proffered fingers in my hand, squeezing them tightly. "Okay, sit up." I did slowly and Edward took out a penlight, checking my vision. "Follow my fingers with your eyes." I followed his fingers, but got woozy while he was doing it. My stomach turned again and scrambled to the bathroom, slamming the door shut. I fell to my knees and dry heaved into the toilet. I clutched my stomach and bawled against the smooth, cold porcelain of the toilet. I hadn't realized it, but Edward came into the bathroom and placed a cool washcloth to my neck.

"When will I feel better?" I sobbed. "I hate this!"

"Bella," Edward croaked as he pulled me into his lap. The sudden movement caused my stomach to roll. He held me against his chest, stroking my back with slow, languorous strokes. "You'll feel better soon. Your brain was essentially scrambled when it hit the back of your skull."

I sniffled and nestled against Edward's chest. I inhaled deeply, allowing his scent to soothe my rattled nerves and upset stomach. I calmed myself and pulled away. For the first time since last night, I looked at Edward. His emerald eyes were filled with anxiety and sadness. His skin was sallow and he looked tired. I ran my fingers over his nose and cheeks. I wanted to make sure he wasn't a hallucination. That he was real. "I'm sorry, Edward."

"Don't you dare apologize, Isabella Swan," he growled, his eyes flashing with anger. "You did absolutely nothing wrong. Nothing."

I cringed and pulled my hands away from his face. I ducked my head, trying to hide my embarrassment. Edward gently captured my chin, slowly lifting it to peer into his intense gaze. "I'm sorry I snapped, Bella. But you did nothing wrong, my beautiful girl. Why are you apologizing?"

"I don't know," I mumbled. "I'm disrupting your life."

"I'd rather be distracted by you, beautiful," Edward whispered. "You are the single most important person right now. Please know that."

"Shouldn't you be at work?" I asked quietly.

"I took a sick day. I needed to take care of you. Tomorrow, I'm going to be at the funeral as a representative as the hospital, by your side. I know that it is important for you to go," Edward said as he kissed my forehead. I sighed and looked at him. My stomach snarled and I winced. "As much as you probably don't want to eat, you should. Your queasy stomach is due to taking the pain meds without eating."

"I don't want to throw up anymore," I grumbled.

"You'll have to eat something bland. I made some toast and jelly," Edward said as he wrapped his arms under my legs and waist. Easily he stood up, holding me. I squeaked and held his neck. "I won't drop you, beautiful."

"Edward, I know that I'm not the thinnest woman," I chided.

"Bella, you wound me. I am fully capable of carrying you. Besides, I love your curves. Very much. It shows me that you're a woman," he cooed.

"Can I at least brush my teeth?" I said. "I can stand to do that."

"After you eat," Edward said, raising his brows. He carried me down the stairs and placed me on the couch. He gave me a stern glare and I knew well enough to stay put. He puttered around the kitchen and returned with a tray. On it was a few slices of toast, some butter and jelly. He also had a bottle of Gatorade and a large glass of water. "It's not much, but your stomach is uneasy. Eat what you can, but you need to drink the entire bottle of Gatorade to get your electrolytes up."

"Yes, Dr. McFuckme," I teased.

"You almost called me that at the hospital," Edward laughed as he sat down next to me, sipping his own water. "That is for my own ears. Not my colleagues."

"Alice and Rose know," I giggled as I put some jelly on my toast.

"That's different," Edward said with a wave of the hand. "I need to maintain the allusion that I'm in charge of my ER. Even though we both know the truth."

"Rhonda is in charge," I sighed.

"Hell yeah," Edward laughed. "I'm glad you caught yourself. You were pretty out of it."

"Yes, I was," I frowned. "I hate not knowing what the hell happened. It's disconcerting."

"I can imagine. Well, I actually know and understand. You lost a few hours. I lost essentially six months," Edward said, brushing my hair behind my ear. "One minute I was in the car, joking with my parents about something. I want to say it was about the Cubs. My dad was a huge fan and they had lost again. I gave him grief, as I was a Sox fan. Then, the next minute, I was in a hospital, attached to tubes and monitors, unable to really speak or communicate my discomfort. It was nearly six months after the accident. I had woken up prior to that, but wasn't really coherent. I was just a lump that drooled and blinked."

"How did you cope, Edward?" I whispered.

"I didn't. At first. I was a ruthless, heartless bastard. I was mean and spiteful, barely talking to anybody when I gained that ability. I threw things at the nurses and no one wanted to care for me. Not that I blamed them. The only person who got through to me was Alice. God bless her, she was my personal cheerleader. I spoke my first words to her. She was there when I took my first steps. She was there when I had my biggest setbacks, but never gave up on me," Edward said with a wistful smile. "I was so upset that I was crippled. I was so upset that my parents were gone and I didn't get a chance to say goodbye. It was fucking tough."

I nibbled on my toast, thinking about what he said. He pushed the Gatorade toward me, arching a brow at me. I grumbled and took a sip. I hate this shit. I gave Edward a tight smile as he encouraged me to drink more. I swallowed the nasty drink and looked at him. "So what's next? Do I need to talk to the police?"

"Yeah," Edward said as his hand through his hair. "I spoke with the police and Seth. They are coming here around three. You think you'll be able to speak with them?"

"I don't know how much I'll be able to say. I don't remember anything," I said. "Have you spoken with them?"

"Not yet. They wanted to speak with me when we got the hospital. I refused to leave your side," Edward said.

"How did I get to the hospital?"

"Ambulance. Rose drove my car behind us and Emmett picked her up. She refused to leave either, but I asked her help for your classes. She immediately said that she would do that for you," Edward replied. "Rose was ready to kill Mike. She was muttering about 'Royce' and that men are fucking asshats."

"Royce is her ex-husband. He was abusive in more ways than one. He slapped her around and actually raped her," I said.

"What?" Edward seethed. "After I gut Mike, Royce is next on my list."

"Edward, don't. Rose is fine. It happened years ago and she's over it," I said as I patted his arm. His nostrils were flared and he looked pissed. Best not mention the baby. For certain he'll kill Royce. I put my tray on the cocktail table, resting my hand on his scruffy cheek. His eyes closed and he leaned into my touch. He laid his own hand on top of mine and pulled me to his chest. We stayed there for an hour or so. I snoozed against his chest once my brain shut off.

"Bella, wake up, love. The police will be here in a little bit. Do you want to shower?" Edward said softly.

"Would be nice," I mumbled against his chest. "I don't have clothes, though."

"Rose packed a bag for you and delivered it this morning on her way to work. It's already upstairs in our room. Do you need help?" Edward asked.

"No, I'll be fine," I said as I stood up, stretching my sore and tired body. "Edward, I don't know if I said this at all, but thank you."

"Bella, you don't need to thank me," Edward said as he hugged me. "I would do anything for you."

"Still waiting for the moon, Masen," I teased as I pinched his ass.

"I'm working on it," he laughed. "Go shower. I'll hang out in the bedroom in case you get dizzy."

We separated and I walked on unsteady legs up the stairs. I could tell that Edward wanted to pick me up and carry me, but knew enough to let me do this on my own. After an exhausting climb up the stairs, I went into the bedroom and pulled out some clothes. I didn't care what I looked like. I just wanted to be comfortable. I ended up with a pair of yoga pants and t-shirt. I also saw the Rose put in some of my regular underwear. Thank goodness! I don't have the patience for butt floss.

I walked into the bathroom. I looked at myself and I saw an exhausted woman. My eyes were drawn and I had dark circles under my eyes. My hair hung limply around shoulders and I looked defeated. Fuck you, Mike.

I showered quickly. I hissed as I washed my hair. I felt my head and it had a huge goose egg on the back. I finished showering and exited the luxurious shower. I dried my body and my hair gingerly. I then brushed my teeth. With each movement, I was getting more and more exhausted. I wanted nothing more than to fall asleep. The bathtub was looking mighty comfortable. I forced my eyes open and pulled on my clothes and underwear. I folded the towel and put it on the towel rod. I walked back out in the bedroom to my bag. I rummaged through it and pulled out my toiletry bag. I got my brush and gingerly ran it through my snarled locks.

Edward stepped behind me and took the brush from my hands. "Let me, beautiful." I turned and looked at him warily. He gave me a loving smile and ran the brush through my hair gently. He got out all of the tangles and he turned me around slowly. "All done. Did I do good?"

"Excellent, Dr. Masen. You missed your calling," I teased. "I love you, Edward."

"As I love you, Bella," he smiled. He leaned down and kissed my lips sweetly. Gently. Almost like he was afraid I was going to break. However, at this point, I probably was. I was getting more and more tired as I stayed awake. I pulled away and laid my head on his shoulder. "Want to head downstairs?" I nodded and yawned. "They'll be here soon. Then you can sleep."

We walked down the stairs and Edward urged me to eat some more food. I was still hesitant to eat anything, but I choked down some apple and crackers. Edward lay down on the couch and held me to his chest. I was fading in and out when I heard the doorbell ring. Edward kissed my forehead and got up to answer the door. It was Seth.

"Hi, Bella," Seth said with a worried smile. "How are you feeling?"

"Tired. My head hurts," I mumbled. "I'm also sore."

"I'm so sorry, Bells. I can't believe he would openly defy an order of protection," Seth said, rubbing his hands over his hair. I looked at him blankly.

"Bella's also experiencing some minor memory loss, Seth. She hit her head very hard," Edward said. "I don't know how much she'll remember to tell the cops."

"Well, I have a few questions. If that's okay?" Seth asked. I nodded. "Has Mike done stuff like this before? Threatened you in anyway?"

"Never while we were married. He got crazy when we got divorced," I answered honestly. "He never really cared about who I hung out with or anything. We lived very separate lives."

"Mike is engaged. Do you think that his fiancée is dealing with the same thing?" Seth questioned.

"I don't know. We never really talked after Mike left me. She used to be on my team at Cherry Blossom," I replied.

"Okay," Seth said. "Are you going to press charges?"

Edward growled and I placed a hand on his arm. "What do you think?"

"That would be a yes," Seth tittered nervously. He opened his mouth and the doorbell rang again. Edward got up and ushered a detective and policeman into his family room.

"Thank you, Dr. Masen. We appreciate you taking the time to meet with us," the detective said. Edward gestured to me and gave me a smile. "Hello. I'm Detective Jackson Lemon. I've been assigned to your case, Ms. Swan. This is Officer Douglas Stohn. How are you feeling?"

"I'm tired and my head is pounding. I've also been dealing with nausea and memory loss," I answered.

"I'm so sorry. However, I need to know what happened in your condo?" Det. Lemon asked.

"I don't remember. Honestly. I remember getting home and then waking up in the hospital," I muttered. "Edward told me what happened when he got there, but I don't remember it."

"Okay. Dr. Masen, can you tell me what you saw when you got to Ms. Swan's condo?" Det. Lemon questioned.

Edward explained what he saw and how Mike was slamming my head against the kitchen floor. He also told Det. Lemon about how he held Mike down until the police came. Det. Lemon wrote down all of this information in his notebook. Det. Lemon then asked the extent of my injuries. Edward explained them in medical terms that I didn't recognize. Seth wrote down his description in his notebook as well. My eyes were drooping as the conversation continued.

"Ms. Swan? Do you want to press charges against your ex-husband?" Det. Lemon asked, pulling me out of my reverie.

"Yes," I replied sleepily.

"Good. Because he already confessed. He was wasted and didn't really know what he was doing. He's going to plead no contest to assaulting you and violating the order of protection," Det. Lemon said. "Seeing as this was his first offense, he will probably get minimal jail time, if any. Do you have questions?"

"Not that I can think of. However, my mind is a bit scrambled right now," I said, rubbing my eyes. "If there's anything else, I can call you, right?"

"Of course. Here's my card," Det. Lemon said. He handed it to me and got up to leave. "Thank you for taking the time to meet with us. I hope your recovery is fast, Ms. Swan."

Edward led Det. Lemon and Officer Stohn to the exit and wished them a good day. He walked back and his face was rigid. "Can he do that? Not get jail time?"

"If it's his first offense, yes. The judge will be more lenient. Also, since he's an upstanding member of the community, that's in his favor too," Seth mumbled. "We can slap with him a civil suit for pain and suffering."

"No, Seth. I don't want his money," I said harshly. "I just want him to pay for what he did to me."

"He will pay for what he did. He is a convicted felon and with that title comes limitations," Seth explained. "I'll do some research and let you know what those limitations are."

"Thanks, Seth," I said as slunk into the pillows in Edward's couch. He pulled my feet into his lap, rubbing lightly. "What do I owe you?"

"Bella," he sighed. "Nothing. Jasper, my fuck awesome boss, told me to do this gratis. You don't need to worry about this."

Tears pricked my eyes and I sniffled. "Thank you," I said in small voice. Seth patted my hand and got up. Edward moved, but Seth said he'd let himself out. As soon as the door closed, my eyes fluttered shut and I was asleep again, snuggled next to Edward.

I woke up later and it was dark outside. I had a blanket thrown over me and a pillow under my head. I sat up, looking around. A few candles were lit and the scent of garlic permeated the house. "Edward?"I called. I looked at the clock and saw it was after eight in the evening. I swung my legs off the couch, standing unsteadily. I walked to the bathroom and took care of necessary business. I padded through the house and saw a light on in a room off the kitchen. I walked toward it and found Edward in a lavishly decorated office. His brow was furrowed and he was typing on his laptop. In his ear was a small microphone and he was talking quietly. I knocked on the door. Edward looked up, giving me a crooked smirk. He finished his sentence and pressed a button on his computer.

"How are you feeling, beautiful?"

"Hungry," I giggled. "What were you doing?"

"Dictation for medical records. A necessary evil," he said, scrunching his nose. "I caught up on most of them while you were sleeping. You were out, my love."

"Getting slammed into a kitchen floor kind of does that to a person," I grumbled. "Though I do feel much better. Not as nauseous and dizzy."

Edward got up from his desk and walked toward me. "Follow my fingers," he commanded. I did and my stomach didn't turn. He then pulled out a pen light, checking my vision again. "Good. Very good. Want to try real food?"

"Nothing too spicy. I still don't trust myself," I replied.

"Okay. I made some chicken and rice. Very bland, I promise you," Edward said as he laced his fingers with mine. He led me to his kitchen and sat me down at his island. He went into his oven and pulled out a plate covered in aluminum foil and placed it in front of me. He turned off the oven and sat down next to me.

"Aren't you going to eat?" I asked.

"I already did. Sorry, baby. My stomach was growling," he said sheepishly. I smiled and tucked into my chicken and rice. I ate all of it, nearly licking the plate. Edward was snickering next to me. "Jesus, woman. Hungry much?"

"Shut it. I haven't eaten much of anything since yesterday at lunch," I snorted. "God, I'm tired still."

"Your brain needs to heal. You'll be sleeping a lot for the next few days. Though tomorrow will be a challenge. If you are tired, dizzy or nauseous in anyway tomorrow, we're coming right home. Got it?" Edward asked sternly.

"Yes, sir," I said with a salute. "We may need to stop by my condo so I can have clothes for tomorrow. Rose just packed comfy things for me."

"Alice swung by with something for you. I think it is clothes for the funeral. Meddling elf," Edward laughed. "You didn't even move when she came in and she was loud."

"I'm sorry that I've been this drama queen girlfriend," I mumbled, pushing my plate away. "Are you sure you want this? Me?"

"Undoubtedly, Bella," Edward said with certainty.

"I have a question for you. At the hospital, you said that I was family. Is that how you think of me?" I whispered.

"Yes. I've professed my love to you, Bella. You are incredibly special and I don't intend to let you go," Edward whispered back. "I'm too emotionally vested in us to be your doctor. I can't separate my feelings from you if I treat you."

"Can you…?" I trailed off.

"Give you your shot? Yes. I can," Edward said, holding up his hand.

"How did you know that what I was going to ask?" I squeaked.

"I saw the prescription on the kitchen counter. I can give you a shot, Bella. However, make major medical decisions for you as your doctor would be impossible. I couldn't detach myself from our relationship to make rational choices."

"Oh," I mumbled intelligently.

"I said before, I plan to be around you for a long time. Forever, beautiful," he said. "I love you, my Bella."

"I love you, too, Edward," I said softly.

I hopped off the chair and wrapped my arms around his neck. He held me tightly between his legs and nuzzled my hair. I kissed his neck and put my head on his shoulder. I tried to stifle another yawn and failed miserably. Edward chuckled and stood up. "Bedtime for my Bella," he snickered. I snorted and rolled my eyes. "Do you want some pain killers?"

"Probably. My head is hurting pretty badly," I grimaced.

"Okay, why don't you head upstairs and I'll bring you your meds," he smiled. I removed my arms from his neck and walked slowly up to his room. I decided to stay in the clothes I was in and crawled into bed. I laid back against the pillows and yawned. Edward came up a few minutes later with a glass of water and a plate. "You had a rough day. Here's my prescription. One piece of chocolate cake with a side of whipped cream," he grinned.

I laughed lightly and took the plate. Edward handed me a fork and sat down next to me. I inhaled my 'prescription' and smiled at him. He took the plate away and handed me two darvocet and a bottle of water. I downed the pills and settled back into the pillows. Edward kissed my forehead. "Sleep well, my Bella."

"Thank you, Edward," I mumbled. "Love you, baby."

"I love you more, Bella," he whispered. "The funeral is at ten. What time do you want me to wake you up?"

"Around eight," I slurred.

"Okay, sweetheart," Edward said as he kissed my neck. My eyelids drooped and I fell into a deep, dreamless sleep.

xx AFS xx

Edward woke up me at eight with the most tender kisses. He kissed my lips and moved to my jaw, then my ear lobe and down to my chest. He laid his head against my heart and he splayed his hand against my belly. "I can't believe you're mine, Bella," he whispered.

"Of course, Edward," I said, my voice rough with sleep. "As long as you have me."

"I've said it before and I'll say it again. I want you forever," he said as he looked up at me, leaning his ear against my chest. "Hmmmm…your heart is stammering."

"That's because of you, Dr. McFuckme," I said, tweaking his nose. "You make my heart race with excitement. With love."

"I'm glad," he said, nestling his nose into my neck.

"You are a hot mess, Edward," I giggled, as I ruffled his hair.

"Um, pot meet kettle," he snickered. "But I like it." He ran his fingers through my ratted hair and I scrunched my nose. "Do you want to shower first or do you want to conserve water?" Edward waggled his brows and licked his lips.

"No funny business, Edward. I'm still wobbly," I said sternly.

"Scouts honor and all that bullshit," he said, holding up his right hand. He got up and helped me to the bathroom. Edward turned on the shower and grabbed a few towels. I took off my shirt and slowly lowered my yoga pants and panties. Edward hissed and he came up behind me, putting his hands on my back. "Bella! What happened?"

"What?" I asked.

"I'm blind as a fucking bat right now and I saw this," Edward said as he turned me in the mirror. Sure enough, there was a huge bruise across my back.

Please take me back, Bella. No. CRASH.

I shuddered and grabbed Edward's bare shoulders. "He pushed me against the counter. He must caused this," I choked out. My hand went up to my neck. "He tried to choke me."

Edward's eyes grew cold and he held me to his chest. "We're calling Seth and Det. Lemon after the funeral. He tried to kill you, Bella," he cried. "I can't lose you."

I nodded against his chest and wrapped my arms around his waist. Edward bent down and picked me up. I latched my arms around his neck and my legs around his belly. He carried us to the shower and washed me reverently. With kid gloves. With love. With patience. With devotion. I looked up at him and tears were spilling over his cheeks. I gently kissed them away. He pulled away and he sunk to his knees, pressing kisses to my belly. He wrapped his arms around my waist and cried into my body. I put my arms around him and held him as he sobbed. "You won't lose me, Edward," I whispered.

"Now, I know what you felt like a week ago. With that dream," he whispered. "I refuse to let you go, Bella."

"I'm not going anywhere, baby," I said as I ran my fingers through his wet hair. "Well, anywhere but out of this shower. I'm turning into a prune."

"Shit, sorry," he said as he scrambled up.

We finished our shower quickly after our little breakdown. Edward dried me gently and let me use the bathroom to get ready. He said he'd use the guest bathroom to finish his bathroom routine of shaving and other things. I ran some mousse through my hair, wincing as I did so. I then went into the bedroom and found a garment bag with my name scrawled on a sheet of paper in Edward's closet.

He's got more clothes than I do. Damn.

I took out the garment bag and found a chic black pant suit with a white camisole and heels. I groaned at the heels, not trusting my balance. In the bottom of the bag was my underwear. Thanks, Alice. At least it wasn't butt floss. I put on my underwear and my clothes, pleased at Alice's choices. The suit was tailored for me in mind. I loved it. I went back into the bathroom and put on my makeup, trying to hide the dark circles under my eyes. I brushed my teeth and fluffed my hair. When I got out of the bathroom, Edward was in the bedroom wearing a conservative black suit with a grey shirt and black tie. He was spraying his cologne and adjusting his hair. "You clean up good, Masen."

"I could say the same thing about you, Swan," he winked. "Oh, this is from my lovely elfin sister, too." He shook a tiny box and put on his dresser. I walked over and opened the box. It was a pair of earrings and a simple necklace. Edward looked in the box. "She thinks of everything. However, I wanted to get you jewelry," he pouted.

"Edward, please," I chuckled as I put on my earrings and necklace. Edward grabbed my left hand and he drew my left ring finger in his mouth. "Don't even think about it, Masen."

He smirked sexily, arching a brow. "Think about what?" he asked innocently.

"Just don't," I emphasized by poking him in the belly.

He giggled and quickly sobered. "Fine."

I gave myself a once-over in the mirror. I still looked like shit, tired and drawn, but I needed to represent my school. I needed to support my student. I stepped into my shoes and Edward laced his fingers with mine. We ate a quiet breakfast before heading to the funeral home. Edward led me into his garage and he hit the key fob on his key ring. A sleek black car opened up and I arched a brow. "You have two cars?"

"The Volvo is my sensible car," Edward smirked. "The car we're taking today is the car I bought when I made the decision to move out here with the sale of my home in Seattle."

"Spoiled," I grumbled as I walked to the passenger seat of the black car. I slid in and groaned at the softness of the leather. Edward also moaned as he got in. "What kind of car is this?"

"Aston Martin Vanquish," he sighed.

"How much does this cost? You know what? I don't want to know. Probably more than the last five years of my salary," I said.

"Probably more than that," Edward said sheepishly. He turned over the car and eased it out of the garage. He pulled away from his house and looked over at me. "When my parents died, I was left a sizable inheritance. Even with my medical expenses, most of it was placed in a trust. When I turned 21, I received access to that trust. I used it to pay for medical school, but for the most part, it's been collecting interest and growing. The home I owned in Seattle, I owned outright. No mortgage. I sold it for twice what I paid for it and made a sizable profit. Even in this economy, I was shocked. With the profit I made, I purchased this home and my Vanquish."

"No mortgage or car payment."

"Nope," Edward said, glancing at me. "Please tell me you're not pissed."

"No, not pissed. Not at all," I said, nibbling on my fingernail. "Must be nice."

"What?"

"Not having to make a mortgage payment. Shit, I'm so in the hole, it's sad. The divorce wiped out my savings and I'm barely scraping by," I sighed.

"Bella, I can help out if you're floundering. It's not like I don't have the money," Edward said.

"I don't want your money, Edward," I snapped. "I'm fine."

"Bella," Edward said. "I know you don't want me for my money. It's my smoking hot bod."

I glared at him in disbelief. I was pissed. I was shocked. I was bent over in a fit of giggles. "Fucking-a! I can't believe you said that!"

"It's the damn truth. You look at me like I'm something to eat," Edward teased. "Admit it, you want to lick my abs."

"That ain't the only thing I want to lick," I said, giving him a smoldering stare.

"Fuck me," he muttered. He reached down and adjusted his crotch. "Do you know what you do to me? Give me your hand." I reached my hand across the console. He placed my hand on his bulging erection and smirked. "That. I don't think it's appropriate to walk into a funeral with a full on boner."

"If I didn't have a massive goose egg on the back of my head, I'd give you road head," I purred.

The car swerved and Edward looked at me in disbelief. "God damn it, woman. You can't say shit like that to me," Edward laughed nervously. "Behave, Ms. Swan or you will be punished."

"How, Dr. Masen?" I cooed.

"I'm thinking," he said with a harsh look. He turned into the funeral home and was greeted with a grim man. He handed Edward a sticker to be placed on the car. He laid it on the front console of the car, not wanting to stick it to the window. Edward got out and opened my door. He laced his fingers with mine and we walked into the funeral home, into the room where Taylor was laid out. I signed us both in. Edward reached into his pocket and placed a mass card into the small box next to guest book. He led me to the line to pay our respects to Taylor. I started sniffling and Edward wrapped his warm hand around my waist. He kissed my temple and gave me a reassuring squeeze. As we waited in line, I saw a number of my students, both past and present. They were crying and upset. I also saw Angela and Chris. I gave them a small wave. Next to them sat Mrs. Cope and our assistant principal, Mr. Merritt.

We reached the front of the line and I knelt in front of Taylor's coffin, praying quietly. Edward said the Lord's prayer in a hushed tone and patted Taylor's hand. We got up and met up with Richard and Annabel, Taylor's parents.

"Mr. and Mrs. Schmink, I'm so sorry for your loss," I said sympathetically. I held out my hand and Mrs. Schmink hugged me tightly. I returned her embrace, rubbing her back as she cried on my shoulder.

"Ms. Swan, Taylor spoke so highly of you. He begged to be in your class this year. You were one of his favorite teachers and you really helped him get out of his shell through drama. Thank you for all you have done," Mrs. Schmink sniffled. "It means the world to us that you came to his funeral. Especially after what happened to you. Mrs. Cope said that you were questionable about coming. Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, Mrs. Schmink," I said. "I wouldn't have missed this. Taylor was a very special young man. It was my pleasure to have him in my class and to see him grow as a student. He will be sorely missed by everybody."

She nodded and looked at Edward. "You were the doctor who worked on my baby," she said quietly. "Thank you for doing all you could."

"I'm so sorry, Mr. and Mrs. Schmink," Edward said quietly. "I wish I could have done more." He shook her hand warmly and gave her a sympathetic smile. He did the same to Mr. Schmink.

"Dr. Masen, right?" Mr. Schmink asked in a husky tone. Edward nodded. "I know you worked on our son, even though he was essentially dead for as long as you could. You might not have saved our boy, but you will always have a special place in our hearts for not giving up."

"Thank you, sir," Edward said with a sad look in his eyes. "He was too young."

"Thank you both for coming," Mrs. Schmink said as she hugged me again. She turned and hugged Edward.

We left the line and sat down next to Angela and Chris. Mrs. Cope and Mr. Merritt asked how I was doing. I answered honestly and said I felt like shit. However, I needed to be here. Alice came in a few moments later with Jasper. We sat and chatted quietly until the pastor came into the room. He explained what to expect. He led us in a prayer and then asked all of the guests to leave, that only family remain. We all got up and headed to our cars. Once we were in Edward's Vanquish, I leaned my head back against the buttery leather seat.

"Are you feeling alright, Bella?" Edward asked warily.

"Not really. My head is splitting. Do you have any Advil in this thing?" I asked. Edward opened up the center console and pulled out a bottle of ibuprofen, handing it to me. I shook out three pills and took them dry. "Blech."

"I had water, Bella" he said as he shook a water bottle. I rolled my eyes and swiped it from him, guzzling it in one pull. As we sat in the car, Taylor's coffin was rolled into the hearse and we drove slowly to the nearby church. We parked and walked into the church. Edward and I sat with the rest of the teachers from Cherry Blossom. My headache was mildly improved from earlier, but it was still pounding. Edward twined his fingers with mine and we sat through the moving church ceremony. Several students gave eulogies. Alice gave one as well. She barely held it together, but she did fabulously. She also sang 'The Irish Blessing.' When her sweet, soft soprano voice lilted through the church, I lost it. Tears flowed down my cheeks and I started to hyperventilate. Edward put his arm around me and rubbed soothing circles on my back, kissing my temple. She ended her song and sat down next to Jasper, collapsing in his arms. I bit back sobs and buried my face in Edward's shoulder. He held me as I cried silently for the poor boy who was robbed of his life. Of his future. Of everything.

I don't remember the rest of the ceremony, but it ended soon after Alice's song. We all piled into our cars and drove to the cemetery. I was quiet, introspective, as we drove the few miles to the cemetery. We parked and got out by the gravesite. It was very clichéd with the tent, chairs and flowers. We stood toward the back of the crowd. Alice stood next to me and we held hands as the pastor send his 'ashes to ashes' speech. Edward had his arm around my waist, supporting most of my weight. My tears were falling down my cheeks like a waterfall. Edward handed me a handkerchief and I gently patted my cheeks.

After the gravesite service, the Schminks invited us to a luncheon at a nearby restaurant. Edward asked me if I wanted to go and I knew I couldn't handle it. I was dead on my feet. He kissed my lips sweetly and led me to his car. We hugged Alice and the rest of the Cherry Blossom Middle School group. I crawled into the car. As soon as the door was closed, my eyes drifted shut and I was asleep, drained from the two emotional days.

A/N: For those of you who are pissed at me about Mike, he will be punished. However, his 'torture' of Bella is not over yet. He's an asshat and he won't leave well enough alone. Leave me love, please. The reviews in my inbox make me happy. Incredibly happy. So happy they make me forget the craziness that is my real life. MUAH!