BPOV

A few minutes into the meeting, I realized I shouldn't be bothered, neither should I care. Honestly, my shock was shifting into anger. After all it was he who decided that I wasn't as important as his job. So I sat up a little straighter, and began paying attention.

Edward was talking about managing finances, and how he intended for an easier communication amongst staff, so the managers and heads would know every detail including the financial ones. That seemed like a good idea, I admit. I didn't even notice but Leah had her hand up -

"Hi Mr. Cullen my name is Leah Clearwater, I was wondering how you plan to implement these changes?"

As Edward redirected his attention to who was asking the question, he saw me. His expression showed that he was shocked. My expression would've given away that I was a bit shocked and alot angry.

He cleared his throat and started speaking, albeit still surprised, "I believe that, the new plan for the company should be to create direct line of communication between the staff and the heads, as I mentioned, instead of redirecting and discussing information amongst the staff themselves. If the heads are as involved in every detail, there is likely to be less issues plus the staff will be guided. If you'll hire me, I will be sure to explain further." Edward said with a smile which seemed fake, while everyone laughed at his statement, but I didn't. He was looking right at me.

I continued looking at him, as well. I wasn't going to back down. I knew I was playing with fire, but at this moment I couldn't care less.

Edward shifted his gaze, and continued his meeting. When he ended his presentation, the CEO, who was the owner's son said that he was the obvious choice to which everyone murmured their assent. Everyone congratulated him.

"Thank you so much for the opportunity, I look forward to working with you all, however it will take me maybe a month to be properly acquainted with all the workings of the company". That's when someone said -

"Don't worry son, you're not the only one new here. Miss Swan and you both have to take some time getting adjusted. I would suggest that you two partner up, and learn the way this organization works together. It saves time and will allow you both to bounce ideas off of each other."

I was horrified at the turn of events and looked at Edward's face then at Leah's. Edward's face was stoic, I couldn't understand what he was thinking. But then again he was great at hiding things, I knew that firsthand.

"He's right Bella. Even though you have been here longer, you need to know everyone and everything, not just marketing, in order to run as well as head the department much more smoothly." Leah added.

I just nodded mutely, and plastered a fake smile on my face to the gentleman, who I believe was a major shareholder. Declining his suggestion was as good as getting myself fired. That's when I reminded myself, that this is for Ness.

Everyone began packing up their things and were leaving. Leah was returning a phone call, leaving me on my own.

As I was heading out, I heard a throat clear. I didn't have to guess who that was.

"Hi Bella... it will be great to work with you." As I looked at him, he seemed unsure but wore a smile.

"Yeah. It will be great." I said sarcastically with another fake smile. His expression faltered a bit.

"Ok... yeah... Umm.. cool." That was the most inarticulate I've ever seen him. Good.

We were now the only people left, so I decided to exit before I said something stupid. At the end of the day I will just treat him like a colleague. He's nothing more to me.

Before I could exit, Ness was bounding towards me, and hugged me.

"I mist you."

"I missed you too sweetheart. Let's get outta here." Before I could leave, I looked towards Edward and found a look of confusion, disappointment and sadness, as he watched Ness and I hug.

I ushered her out without further delay, and walked away without another glance.

The rest of the day, was free from further incidents. However, Ness was always observant -

"Bewwa... why didja look sad. And who was dat guy you were talking to? he looked sad also... I don't wike when people are sad."

"He's just a person I work with honey. He was not sad. But I was sad because I missed you sooooo much" this was the first time I had to lie to her. I didn't like this feeling.

"Hmmmm... otay Bewwa..." she didn't seem convinced. She always was perceptive like mom, but didn't question me any further.

It was around 9 p.m. I had just put Ness to sleep, and was getting some work done, when I hear my phone ringing. I knew dad wouldn't call this late, because Ness was asleep... he enjoyed talking to Ness and hearing about her adventures of the day.

The phone's ring brought me out of my thoughts and I picked up my phone -

"Isabella?" I knew that voice, there's no way I could forget that voice.

"Yes Edward. How did you get this number?"

"I asked the company, I had forgotten to ask you..."

"Umm... ok!? Why did you call then? And why did the company give you my number?" I was irritated and I wasn't hiding that.

"I told them that I needed to discuss work related things with you, but had forgotten to ask you..."

"Ok so what did you want to discuss?"

"Not over the phone, can we meet up somewhere?"

"No." I didn't have to elaborate.

"Please... I promise it's work related. I just don't want to discuss this over the phone. Tomorrow is Saturday anyways... can't we just meet up."

"... fine. But I'm bringing Vanessa."

"Is that your kid?"

"Yes" I didn't need to clarify shit to him. And as far as I was concerned she was as good as my child.

"Ok... whatever you're comfortable with..."

"Bye."

"Bye Bella... see you tomorrow."

With that I disconnected the line...

Fuck!!!! What did I get myself into???!??? And I fucking dragged Vanessa into this... I'm so stupid!!!

A/N:

Hope you enjoyed this Chapter!