AN: *Hears crickets* Anyone still out there? Two months is a bit for an update, but in all fairness, I have been doing other writing. I wrote two one-shots and you need to go read those and vote (details at the end).

This chapter was brought to you by the letters W and C (writing challenges), without them, I would still be waiting for this chapter to finish.

Thanks to my Zhivago3 for looking this one over and not slapping me into submission.

Disclaimer: I don't know Twilight (duh!) but I now have a huge collection of RobPorn (and people need to leave him and Kristen alone, I'm not a shipper, but geez, let them be!)


Chapter 10 – Big Girls Are Best

BPOV

I had nothing to say to him. Not yet anyway. I hung up on Edward before he could say anything else to me. I just didn't want to hear his voice, not then. My mind was a jumbled mess of emotions after the kiss with Zafrina; I couldn't handle dealing with him as well.

The next day I stayed home and let all calls go straight to voicemail. Zafrina called several times, but I couldn't handle what being with her would mean for me. Did this make me a lesbian? Rose said no, but I did feel a connection to her, not as profound as with Edward, but it was there.

The kiss was soft and gentle, something I hadn't had since Edward, and I could still feel the way she moved against my lips. My mind just didn't know how to process it yet. I wanted to see her again, that I knew, but…

Fuck, I was so confused!

What if she wanted to take things further? Would I be up for that?

I slept in for most of the day, my thoughts going back and forth between Zafrina and the anguish I heard in Edward's voice. He was surrounded by his family and, I was sure, hoards of horny women he could bed, so why the sadness? It didn't make any sense.

After a while I decided to finally get my lazy ass out of bed. The new semester was beginning the next day and I needed to get prepared. I took a quick shower and grabbed some coffee before I sat down and began my work.

My phone rang again and I saw that it was Zafrina. I ignored the call earlier, I couldn't do it again.

"Hello," I answered.

"Bella? Hi, it's Zafrina."

"Hey, how are you?"

"Umm…I'm great. I wanted to see how you were holding up today. Not hungover are you?" There was doubt laced in her tone and I knew she was worried that I may have been drunk when we kissed.

"Not at all, I was never drunk last night," I assured her.

"Oh, that's great!" I smiled at the relief in her voice. "Listen, I just wanted to say that I had a wonderful time last night and…well…"

"Zafrina, I had a great time, too, and I hope we can do it again soon."

"Really? I am so glad you said that."

I giggled. "I was very sober last night and I enjoyed myself. I wouldn't change a minute of it." Well, that was a lie. I would have hung up the phone the moment Edward came on the line.

"Well, good then. Are you busy Wednesday?" she asked.

"No, I'm not; luckily this is an easy week for me." We made plans to meet for dinner and hung up.

I had a feeling I could make this work. I never had feelings for another woman, but there was something about Zafrina that I found profoundly endearing. Not only that, she was pretty on the eyes and I felt like a teenager around her, the way I used to feel around Edward.

I went to bed that night happy for the first time in a while.

~*~

Time passed and my relationship with Zafrina was slowly growing. It was so different being with a woman. She was fast becoming my best friend and I couldn't be more grateful. She actually got me! I didn't have to explain anything and whenever I was brooding, she knew when to leave me alone.

I felt slightly guilty about having Zafrina in my life. I realized I hadn't called Alice or Rosalie as often as I used to and I was sure they felt it.

"Bella, long time, no hear," Alice said, her voice laced with sarcasm. I had finally called Alice towards the end of January. The last time I had spoken to her was New Year's Day.

"Hey, Alice. How-"

"Don't 'hey, Alice' me woman, where the hell have you been this whole month?" she seethed.

"The semester started, I've been busy with school," I explained.

"Bullshit. You were never too busy before to call us and you used to call us practically every day." She was right. Before Zafrina I called Alice or Rose almost daily. I valued that connection with my old life, but now that I had someone to occupy my hours, it was a different game for me.

"You're right, I'm sorry."

"Is it Zafrina? You've been spending a lot of time with her, haven't you?" I nodded before forgetting she couldn't see me.

"Yes. She's really sweet and well, I really like her."

"So you two are, like, dating now?" I could hear the curiosity in her voice.

"Yes-"

"Wow," she cut me off again. "Are you guys… umm…having sex? How does that work, anyway?"

That was actually a good question that I had no answer to since Zafrina and I had not been intimate save for some over-the-clothes touching. Those actions didn't seem different from what Edward and I used to do in the past.

"Ummm…well… we haven't done anything yet, except for kissing and maybe a few touches here and there," I answered.

"How was it?"

"The same as if Jasper was touching you. I mean so far it's not that different. Well, softer maybe, I guess?"

"Intriguing," she said sounding awed by what I told her.

"Valentine's is coming up. Do you have any plans?"

"None that I know of right now. I know Zafrina said she was going to handle it, but she hasn't said anything to me."

"So, what? Is Zafrina the man in the relationship?"

I scoffed at Alice's ignorance. "I wouldn't say that, but she has done this before so I'm letting her take the reins. I'm so new to this I wouldn't even know where to begin on taking the next steps with her, you know?"

"I can understand that. I just care about one thing," she started.

"What's that?"

"That you're happy. Are you happy?"

Was I happy? I hadn't cried in over two months. I was certainly laughing and smiling more. I knew my heart raced and my face lit up anytime I saw Zafrina enter a room. She was good for me.

"Yes. I'm actually really happy. Something I haven't felt in a long time."

"Good. That's all I wanted to hear. I have to get going, but you better call us more often. We worry about you over here. You go without calling us for too long and we're on the next flight out there," she chided.

"Yes, mother," I giggled.

"Love you, babes. Speak to you soon."


2001

Edward picked me up and spun me around. "I'm so proud of you!" he exclaimed before planting a kiss on my mouth.

The tears were beginning to stream down my face. I had finally finished. I graduated with my Masters in English Literature and already had a position as a teaching assistant at the university. Everything was falling into place for me and I couldn't be happier.

Edward was doing well with the beginning of his residency, though he was still undecided about his specialty. Being the perfect man that he was, he was pretty much good in any field. Of course, this also meant that he was called in for all major surgeries and experimental procedures. I barely saw him anymore. Sharing this day with him meant that much more to me.

"Thank you for being here, Edward," I said when I finally calmed down.

"I wouldn't miss this for the world, love," he said lovingly. He gazed into my eyes, pushing a loose strand of hair behind my ear. "I love you, Bella. I want to be there for every event in your life. You know that." He brushed his lips against mine gently.

Yes, I did know that. Edward was busy, but he always made the time for me.

I pulled away. "Is the rest of the family here?" Edward was the first to see me once the ceremony was over, waiting for me at the entrance of the arena.

"Yes, they are waiting for us by the car." He grabbed my hand and led me to the parking lot where the rest of the family was indeed waiting for me. My parents and Edward's, along with his siblings and Rosalie and Jasper, were standing there with huge smiles and cameras at the ready.

I shook my head. "You guys are corny."

"You have a degree in English lit and that's the best you could do," Rose smirked.

"Shut up." She quirked an eyebrow. "What do you want me to say?"

"I don't know, quote some Shakespeare or something." I rolled my eyes.

"That's high school shit."

"Bella," admonished my mother. Apparently I had a degree in my hand, but I was still young enough to be chastised for my language.

"Sorry, mom."

"Oh, who gives a shit? Come here and give me a hug." My mother hugged me tightly. I looked at my father with wide eyes and he just shrugged.

I let my mother go and walked over to my father. He patted me on the back, "Good job, kiddo." He was a man of few words. I wasn't entirely sure where my love of words came from, but I knew it didn't come from my parents.

Esme and Carlisle each gave me a hug, before passing me onto Rose, who seemed to lose the snarky attitude, and Alice, who was bouncing with excitement.

"You did it! Now let's go celebrate!"

I groaned. As much as I wanted to celebrate, I was looking forward to some alone time with Edward. He had the whole day off from the hospital and I didn't want to waste anymore time. He also looked delectable in his navy blue suit and I wanted him out of it in a hurry.

Sensing my need, Edward leaned towards me and whispered, "Don't worry, we only have lunch with them. Dessert is waiting for you back home." He nipped my neck and I was glad he was holding onto me or I surely would have fallen to the ground.

Edward arranged for us to eat a local diner knowing I didn't want anyone going insane over my graduation. I still had my work cut out for me as I needed to eventually work on getting my doctorates if I ever wanted to become a full-fledged professor. For now, I had my job as teaching assistant and I would make the most of it.

We arrived at the diner and no sooner after settling in, Edward's phone began buzzing.

"Shit," he groaned. "It's the hospital. Love, I have to take this. I'll be right back." I nodded as he stepped outside to take the call. The rest of the family spoke animatedly about the ceremony and what was in store for me and Edward. I tuned them out as I stared out the window at Edward. He looked annoyed and I wondered if everything was okay with the job. The conversation ended and he came quickly over and kneeled in front of me.

"Is everything all right, Edward?" He ran his hand through his hair, something he did when he was stressed.

"Bella, love," he shook his head. I frowned knowing he was not about to give me any good news. "I have to go. One of my patients is having complications from the surgery and I need to take care of him."

"But, today is your day off, can't they get someone else?" I protested.

"I wish it were that simple. It is my day off, but you know I'm still always on call. Besides, it would take too long to get another doctor up to speed. Baby, I am so, so sorry." He cupped my cheek in his hand. "I will make it up to you. I promise." He kissed my forehead, stood and said his goodbyes to the rest of the family.

What was meant to be one of the happiest days in my life turned sour as Edward walked out of the diner. I put no blame on him as it was the nature of his profession, but I had hoped for a reprieve from his hectic life. At least I was still surrounded by family and I had just accomplished one of my goals. I couldn't have asked more from life at that point in time.

I wasn't sure what time Edward came home that night, but he woke me up with feather kisses on my shoulder and whispered apologies for missing out on the rest of my day. He indeed made it up to me with his words and body. He was sweet and tender and brought me to orgasm several times. I truly couldn't have asked for a better ending to the day.


2006

I was dressed and ready to go, waiting for Zafrina to arrive. She was taking me out for Valentine's Day, but wouldn't tell me where. The only hint she gave me was to wear something loose fitting but nice and wash my hands. I chose a light blue cowl neck sweater and a pair of jeans with my black stiletto boots. I couldn't fathom where she was taking me, all I could do was trust her.

Zafrina called at six thirty letting me know she was approaching my building. I told her I would meet her downstairs so not to waste money on the taxi meter. I gave her a chaste kiss on the lips when I saw her; I didn't want the driver to see much else.

"So, where are you taking me?"

"It's a surprise. You're going to enjoy it. It's one of my favorite places to go. Oh, and be prepared to eat…a lot."

"A lot of food? Are you taking me to a buffet?" I asked curiously.

"Buffet? Never that," she said patting my knee. "This is a hundred times better than a buffet, tastier too."

I stared out the window trying to figure out where we were going. The driver turned down South Street and I knew there were a few decent restaurants there, but none that offered a lot of food. The car stopped suddenly.

"Okay, that'll be seven fifty," the cab driver said turning the meter off. Zafrina reached into her purse and took out the bills to pay. We were dropped off in front of what appeared to be an alley way, the only restaurants in sight were further down the block. Where was she taking me?

"This way," Zafrina called, walking down the alley. I noticed then what Zafrina was wearing. We were similarly dressed, but her jeans were tighter, defining the curves of her ass. I couldn't help but stare, it was a beautiful sight. She must have sensed that I was staring because she turned around and winked. She also began to sway her hips a bit more as she continued down the alley.

I followed her still not seeing anything. At the end of the street were a few small homes, but nothing that indicated a place to eat. We stopped in front a non-descript door and Zafrina knocked. I finally saw the Arabic symbols along the wall, but before I could ask her about them, the door opened.

"Welcome to Marrakesh, do you have a reservation?" the man asked.

"Yes, reservation for two under Silva," Zafrina stated. The man motioned us inside.

My eyes had to adjust to the dimly lit room before I could take anything in. The room was small, with pillow covered benches laying low to the ground. The tables were also set low making you feel as though you were sitting on the floor. There were maroon, dark green and gold drapes along the walls as well as miniature statues of Islamic figures. I felt as if I stepped into other world.

"What is this place?" I whispered to Zafrina as we were seated.

"This place is called Marrakesh and probably has the best and most authentic Moroccan food on the east coast. I hope you haven't eaten today because you're going to need the room in your belly and you will want to eat everything." My interest was definitely piqued. I've never had Moroccan food so I was looking forward to the new tastes on my palette.

Our server came and placed towels on our laps in lieu of napkins. Next to him was a young girl holding a steaming kettle and big bowl. She placed the bowl in the center of the table and gestured for us to bring our hands over it. She proceeded to pour the warm water over our waiting hands and gave us each a towel.

I looked over at Zafrina and she must have sensed my confusion. I'd never had my hands washed at the table before.

"You're going to do a lot of eating with your hands," Zafrina whispered to me. I glanced down at the table and realized there were no utensils. I raised my brows; this was definitely a new experience for me.

We ordered our drinks first. Zafrina recommended a sweet drink that tasted and smelled of roses. The bread came out next, followed by hummus, cucumber and tomato, and zaalouk salads which were accompanied by even more pita bread.

I didn't know what to do or how to eat the food, since I was so used to eating with a knife and fork.

"Watch and learn," Zafrina instructed. She ripped a piece of pita bread and, holding it between her two fingers, she used it to pick up pieces of the cucumbers and tomatoes. She opened her mouth to take a bite, but stopped. She turned to me with a wicked grin on her face. "Open," she commanded in a husky tone.

I did as told sticking my tongue out a little. Zafrina placed the food in my mouth and I began to gently bite down. I expected her to remove her fingers quickly, but instead they lingered. I froze for a second before lightly gliding my tongue over them, taking everything she had offered into my mouth. I heard her moan lowly and smiled, knowing I elicited that sound from her.

"I think I got it now," I said, my voice dropping slightly.

"You sure do."

We polished off the rest of the salads and were served the next dish, chopped chicken in a sweet almond sauce covered with a flaky pastry dough and powdered sugar. It was a messy dish and I was getting sugar all over myself. Zafrina noticed and gingerly eased her hand under my chin and held it. With her thumb, she wiped what I assumed was sugar from the corner of my mouth. She brought her hand back to her and licked her thumb.

"Mmmm…tastier than I thought it would be," she mused. My pulse picked up considerably. She smirked and continued eating. I blinked a few times to compose myself and continued with my meal as well.

The food kept coming and I was soon being stuffed with lamb, more chicken, baklava, and grapes. We were fed a seven course meal. I was trying desperately to not unfasten my pants.

"Zafrina, I'm dying here," I said with a satisfied grin.

"Wasn't it all delicious though?" She leaned back against the decorative pillows and took a deep breath. "So much food, but I love coming here."

I looked around the room and saw mostly couples and few groups. This was definitely a more romantic scene and I began to wonder how many times Zafrina has been here with other women. The pang of jealousy hit me and I chided myself. I hadn't dated in a long time and being with a woman was completely new to me, but Zafrina had been in the game for a while. She had only ever been in one serious relationship, but she informed me that she was with a few women in the past, too. What was a few?

"Bella, what's wrong?" she asked.

"Nothing," I lied.

"Please tell me. I want there to be complete honesty between the two of us." She placed her hand over mine and squeezed gently.

"I… it's silly."

"If it's silly then it won't matter if you tell me," she smiled.

"Well, you said you love coming here, so I assumed you come often…"

"And," she urged.

"And…I was curious to know how many other women you've brought here." I felt my face blushing furiously.

Zafrina laughed. "Bella," she started. "Darling, I love coming here, but it's not often. There's just way too much food for me to enjoy on a consistent basis. I've been a few times with groups of people. Despite the romantic ambience, this is a great place for groups. A lot of my art friends and I enjoy it. We generally eat upstairs though when it's a huge group of us." She pointed towards the door and I spotted the stairs.

"Oh…"

"I've only brought one other person here on a date and that was Senna," she explained. She and Senna had been together for 3 years before Senna cheated on her. We apparently had a lot in common.

"I'm sorry-"

"No need to apologize, you've been through a lot of shit with your ex, as have I, so I understand your wariness and maybe jealousy too, but you don't have to worry with me. I will always be upfront with you about anything. One hundred percent honest!" She raised her hand as if swearing on a bible which made me laugh.

"I believe you, and thank you. I need the honesty. It seems I've been living a lie for a few years now, so it's definitely refreshing."

"I've got you now," she winked. She gestured for the check and once everything was paid we walked outside.

"So what's next on the agenda?" I asked, pulling my coat tighter to brace against the cold.

"I didn't have much else planned for tonight. I thought I'll let you decide what to do next."

"Oh…well…I guess we can take a little stroll and walk off the food some," I suggested.

"Perfect. I am about to burst at the seams, a walk will be good."

We walked along South Street, stopping at all of the pagan stores and admiring the silver jewelry. We passed Condom Kingdom and on a whim I thought it would be cool to go inside.

I stopped in front of the display of toys and vibrators. I was never one to use toys before for self pleasure although Alice and Rosalie kept insisting that I buy one for all of the lonely Edward-less nights. Edward kept me satisfied enough when he was around; I just never felt the need.

Zafrina came to stand next to me. "This one is my favorite," she said pointing to a sparkly vibrator.

I picked up the toy for a closer examination. "Sparkly? Really? Does it glow in the dark too?" I asked stifling a giggle.

"No, but trust me, it works wonders." She snatched it out of my hand and placed it back on the display case. She walked away and I glanced back at the contraption in front of me. It wouldn't hurt to have something in the house and I had been getting extra horny lately.

"Oh why the hell not," I said aloud. My decision made, I grabbed the sparkly toy and strolled nonchalantly to the cashier. Once purchased, I made my way to the front door where Zafrina was waiting.

"Bought something you liked?" she smirked. I blushed slightly, embarrassed about the contents of my bag. "Oh, don't get embarrassed, it's a normal thing to buy really." She pushed the door open and I followed her outside into the cold night.

It was getting late and we both decided it was a good time to go home. We shared a cab again and I was dropped off first.

"Thank you, Zafrina. I had a really great time tonight. The food was amazing and you, well, you are a beautiful person. I couldn't ask for a better friend and…" I struggled for the next words. We were definitely more than friends, but how did you define our relationship?

"And…hopefully lover," she continued for me. I felt my face heating up again. Yes, lover. "I will wait for you when you're ready and I will take it slow with you. Though," she paused, biting her lip, "I hope you'll let me use that new toy on you one day."

I was in full blown blush mode now. "Umm…y…yes…" I stuttered.

"I'm sorry," she looked down, "I didn't mean to be so forward."

"It's okay, Zafrina. I would like that…one day." I lifted her chin and placed a soft kiss on her lips. "I'll call you later, okay?" She nodded.

I climbed out of the taxi and headed upstairs. I eyed my purchase and shrugged.

"Might as well get some practice in now…"

AN: How do you like? B & Z's relationship is growing and you see the tension in E & B's relationship. These things do happen…

On a one-shot note: I entered into two contests and you guys need to go quickly and read and vote.

1) kikiwhore presents Esme's Erotic Ecstasy - My story, The Masquerade can be found here: http://www. fanfiction. net/s/5470750/1/The_Masquerade (minus the spaces) and the contest link is: http://www. fanfiction. net/u/2079696/# Voting ends the 14th, so go read and vote!!!!

2) Eric and his Great Pumpkin – This is a Southern Vampire Mysteries story (what True Blood is based on) so it's a bit different, but lemons abound regardless: The French Connection:
http://www. fanfiction .net/s/5457843/1/The_French_Connection and the contest link: http://www. fanfiction. net/u/2089903/Eric_and_his_Great_Pumpkin voting has not begun yet for this, but it will soon, in the meantime read the entries. They're all good.

AN2: I almost forgot... I added a picture of who I envision Zafrina to be in my profile. check it out.