Darlin' Dear

by Chocomemo

Leah was a different person when she met bad boy Edward Masen. 8 years have passed and lots have changed. Edward returns back to their hometown & it might be difficult for Leah to resist temptation. Disclaimer: AH fic/LeahxEdward fic/Mature for future chapters. R&R

7. Chapter 7

Chapter 7 is officially here! I am still always editing my work, so I apologize if there are any grammatical or punctuation mistakes. Bare with me ya'll! As always I hope you enjoy this chapter! -A

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LPOV

It had been a couple months since Sam and I broke it off. I was quite over joyed when I came home the morning after the whole thing. Edward walking in front of me as an 'acting bodyguard'. There was no one home but us. Sam most all his items and then some, I noticed he had taken some books and the couch/ottoman set from the living room (fine with me, if he only knew what had taken place on that couch the night Edward and I...) never mind. Oh, and the tv from said living room, and also the one that was in our bedroom. I wasn't too heart broken about it, just wanted to really rip Sam's face apart. I had stomped through into the dining room that day and got to the kitchen only to realize he had taken the coffee maker too. What a pathetic joke.

I had Jessica come over that same day and help me do a little burn pile. Some photos and more than a few items of clothing that were left behind in his arrogance. I hope he didn't think he was ever going to get anything back. I meant what I said. I even got the locks changed.

But, other than that I haven't heard a peep from Sam's end of the galaxy. Hoping I won't ever have to either.

Things have been glorious. I am almost surprised by the little nuances of Edward's personality and the changes that have certainly taken place over the years. He is so very painfully kind to me, while I am used to the opposite. We haven't moved in with each other or anything. Having separate spaces is good for a while because of how fast everything has taken off. I am still very much in the process of being rid of negative energy...

Although, there is my mother. It's been okay, I have just been wary of her increasing memory issues, and the attitude has always been there before this all...But, lately it's just been so intense for me. My skin prickles sometimes when I walk up the front steps to my old childhood home. I try to keep my cool because I don't want Edward to worry. He can read me like a friggen book. Didn't help that I wore my feelings on my face.

Last week Edward came to my house after he got out of work. I could feel him, warm skin still steamy from the hot shower he took. His weight on the mattress slid me down closer to him. He wrapped his arms around me from behind and pressed long and hard against me. He breathed against my neck, pushing my hair away and nipping the skin on my neck gently. I felt his hand gripping my waist and hip.

I couldn't help but grin in my sluggish stupor. Instinctively my rear pushed right onto him. His boxers left very little to the imagination. I was all ready to go. Nude and didn't even need any lube. Ready. To. Go. I wondered in amusement if my lack of clothing would surprise him. I let out a quiet giggle and heard his muscles go limp momentarily to laugh. I shuffled to lay on my back.

"Ah, so you are awake?" He guessed pressing his lips to my neck sending a shiver down my back.

"Almost." I palmed my face trying to rub the sleep away.

Edward begins to stroke the skin on my thighs and I am so grateful that he did. "You are-"

Cold air touched my skin immediately as the comforter flew and landed just under my bikini line. I didn't even have to turn my face to see his expression.

"-so beautiful," he gasped.

As I moved to look at him I was met with the top of his head as he attached his hot mouth to my breasts. My knees spread apart as his fingers glided down and worked over my entire pussy. One finger began to rub my sensitive clit. My mouth hung open, my chin was almost touching my chest as I focused on the sensation. I closed my eyes and felt Edwards breath go across my breasts. His forehead touched mine as his skillful motions continued.

"You want me inside of you?" He quizzed softly.

I shook my head up and down. His hungry eyes met mine as we pressed our mouths together like lustful teenagers.

Edward began kneading my breasts. "Can I taste you first?" He groaned.

"Fuck," I gasped lowly. Biting my lower lip I held my thighs as I spread open wide for him so he could really hear my answer. He headed on down there, and I got maybe about three licks away from flooding. But the telephone had rang.

I answered and Edwards gorgeous face stopped in confusion. His head popping up. The alarm looked to show it was 2AM, can't be good news at this hour. I answered to my mother barely intelligible whimpering into the other line. She groaned her voice crackling like fire, Uncle Quil passed away in his sleep. Jr found him 'asleep' in his bed, and that was just God awful.

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..

This week I stayed over at Edward's. My lucid erotic screams from our last romp were still echoing through my ears when I awoke. It was four o'clock.

"I've got work this morning,"

"I have a shift at Quil's," I paused, "Rebecca and Embry will be there, night will hopefully fly by."

We stared at each other and I sighed.

He nudged my side with his hand. "Hoping to get off a little early and treat you to somethin' nice," his sultry tone brought a smirk out of me.

"Oh really?" I reached for my green ceramic mug filled halfway with hot coffee. "I only have a five hour shift tonight, so I'll be home in time for supper." I leaned against the cool counter top. My back arched as he moved behind me now.

Edward groaned softly. "I want to have you for supper," he teased grasping a handful of my rear.

I immediately turned facing him and went in for a long embrace. My hands reaching around to give him a little squeeze as well. "I don't mind."

"Then it's settled!" He said excitedly.

"Yes," I responded gleaming with adoration.

"Any food preferences?" He questioned.

My head tilted to the side as I thought of how sweet this man is. "Are you planning to cook for me?" I inquired. "Little old me?"

"Yes, yes-" he took a long breath against the side of my neck and pulled back to look at me. "-and...this weekend...Word might have already gotten back to the folks..."

Woah buddy. "No shit?" I was not entirely surprised given we've been dating for a couple months. It was only a matter of time.

"Yeah," he grinned. "Anyways, my dad invited us over."

"Yeah?" I let myself lean into him harder, pressing my face against his chest and taking in his spicy musk.

"Yeah," he said, swaying us slowly. "You wanna invite your family as well?"

"Make it a whole shin-dig?" I questioned.

"Why not?" He quipped back, head tilted back slightly. He slinked his arm around my waist and rubbed the skin above my hips.

"Well, you know my mother..." I added softly.

"Yes, yes I do...But I'm sure her and my aunt Dotty could sit under a dark cloud together." He probably checked out the grimace that came as quick as it had gone off of my face. "I'm sorry, but, you should invite people none the less."

"Not only that, but, Jr just lost his dad, not sure if that side of the family will be up for that."

"It'll be something to get outta town for a minute, and enjoy each others company," Edward muttered.

"Life is short." I chimed.

"Damn right," Edward quipped.

I lifted my shoulders. "Maybe he can ride with me," I suggested.

"Absolutely," he agreed.

---

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..

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Days later I found myself at my mother's house. She had called earlier, mentioning she wanted to give me Dad's old albums from the attic. I had a shift at the bar tonight, which served as a convenient excuse in case the conversation took an unpleasant turn.

As I poured a mug of coffee in the dull blue kitchen, I made my way to the pale yellow living room. Taking my seat on the leather couch. We spoke about Quil. He wasn't a complex man. His simple wish for cremation didn't sit well with Mom, and she made her disapproval clear. Jr, his son, respected his wishes the whole way through. Till the end.

"In his sleep," she sighed, and I braced myself for the familiar recounting. "Gosh, it seems like we are all fizzling out," she lamented, her hands snaking up to her face to push strands of brown and gray from her forehead.

I sucked my gums and grimaced. "Ma, that's life, you live and you die," I said matter-of-factly.

"Oh, you make it sound so simple," she snapped.

I shrugged. "I'm just not in the mood to sugar coat," I said coolly, my thoughts briefly drifting to Quil's warm embraces and his raspy chortle that would ring out into the ethos like a crashing comet. He was beautiful. Fully. "It's a sad time, I love that man. He was a good man, he lived a cool life," I said softly.

Mom scoffed, and my eyes fogged over. I could feel myself getting ready to space out. The conversation was gearing up for another round of gossip.

"Heard Em' has got someone she's been seeing, keeping it very hush hush," she whispered, placing a long slender finger in front of her lips. Deep in thought. Cause that's what this conversation needed. More thought. I sighed, bracing for more unnecessary details. "Spoke to Julissa about it earlier, says her daughter has been actin' odd."

Yeah as if Emily's mother was a source for any real information. "Hm, she's another one...Sounds like a load of hooplah."

"I saw her for a moment at the Safeway, from a distance, she looked like she gained weight." She sounded so superficial.

I could already tell this was going to go no where. It didn't really peak my interest. Instead I found myself bothered by her need to say some of the nonsense that come out of her mouth. "Ma, that's not nice," I scolded, but she continued, oblivious to my disapproval.

"Besides, she didn't see or hear me, I was standing there calling Emily! Emily!" She paused then for a moment. "Then again, she was at checkout, and I was all the way back by the butcher section," mother said it as if she was confused, trying to figure why Emily hadn't noticed her. If I were Emily I'd pretend I didn't know Sue Clearwater either.

I rolled my eyes. "Oh yeah?" I feigned interest.

She coulda been alone speaking to the walls it wouldn't have made a difference. "Anyways, Jacob's strolling into town today, gonna help me with my car troubles since I don't have a son who will take a little time to see his mother or let me see my grandbaby," her bitterness really cut through on that last part.

My hand smacked against my face, stretching the skin across with my palm. This woman sowed her seed of misery years ago. That seed grew into a decrepit neglected mass of agony. She will never relent and just find peace. Let the shit die already. I couldn't believe the amount of energy she put into being such a morbid bitch. It seems impossible for her to just be content with anything.

I don't recall when things became how they are. I was a toddler when she was nice, as I grew up it appeared she grew to resent me for whatever reasons. I realized when Seth came along that she loved the closeness experienced during early infancy and childhood. Anything beyond that was a cut off in her mind. My father was somewhat abusive to my mother in the early years. Once I was born that stopped, so did the drinking. He would come home and sway gently to an old Otis Redding Vinyl on the record player in the kitchen, talking to my little face for hours. Or so my mother loves to tell me.

At one time Seth and I shared a bedroom. I remember we had to make a mad dash to the hallway closet in between where the bedrooms are in the back of the house. It smelt like polyurethane and muddy shoes in there. I held Seth's small body against mine, he must have been three at the time. There were tiny slits in the closet, but I covered our eyes. My sweaty small hands barely masking half of what we could vaguely see taking place in the hall.

SLAM!

Seth jumped slightly, my hands were trembling.

"Get THE FUCK off of me, woman!" I heard my father's voice echo. "SUE, THE KIDS!"

A mad struggle was happening. I envisioned two monsters beating each other ruthlessly, their horrendous bulging arms offering blow after blow. At least that's what it sounded like to my child ears at that time.

"I'LL STRANGLE THEM BEFORE I LET YOU TAKE OFF WITH ANOTHER WOMAN!" I heard a horrendous monster shriek that sounded vaguely like my mother.

"SUE, STOP IT!" My dads voice was booming from the end of the hallway now. There was another loud crack. The floor shook under us, then suddenly stopped.

My mother's shrill voice cutting through the dry air, "YOU BASTARD!" Sending twinges of dread throughout my entire body. We heard fabric ripping and smacking sounds, and something sounding like the noise that Jell-O made if you smack it really hard. An ear piercing shriek echoed throughout the small house. My head rattled.

"YOU'RE CRAZY, YOU BITCH!"

Seth's trembling and squeeling was enough of a distraction. I had no idea how long we were in there for before the police came. Found out later on that the neighbors had heard the ruckus and called the cops.

It took sheriff Swan two and a half hours to coax us out of that small closet that had reeked of urine. Both Seth and I had lost control of our bowels, our eyes beat red and puffy. There were messy red hand prints on the mint wallpaper now in the hallway. Which at the time I found odd because mom didn't allow us to paint on the walls. As time passed I came to realize it was blood.

Sheriff Swan has retired since then, but I remember running into his arms asking him if he had food cause my brother was hungry. He was sweet. We had to see the paramedics first, but Swan was with us the whole way through. They asked a lot of questions that I couldn't answer. Finally we got into a change of warm clothes and Swan let us ride in his police car. I got to flip the switch for the pretty lights. He bought us McDonald's and ice cream.

Don't remember when, but I eventually found out that my mother had stabbed my father in the back after finding out he had been unfaithful. A full out brawl ensued, he had punched her in the face. She had chased him throughout the house, throwing glass, breaking everything until she finally cornered him. When my sleep crusted eyes had opened to the chaos going on behind Seth and I's bedroom door. I sprung out of bed and saw Seth was already sat straight up in bed, the blankets pulled up to cover his nose and mouth. He was already bawling.

At that age I thought there were great ogres in our house. I could imagine their huge bodies squeezing through a corridor or getting stuck halfway through an archway. In my sleepy confusion I thought someone was coming to hurt us. Booming and crashing every other moment, silence would be followed by squawking, unintelligible arguing. I wasn't sure whether or not I had been dreaming. My father survived the stabbing quite well actually. She didn't get him good enough to her standard.

I noticed her shifting a bit from my peripheral vision. I looked back over at her. "So," I cut through wanting to change the pace of the conversation after spacing out for a beat. "I talked to Julie the neighbor earlier and she told me you soaked her with the garden hose? What the hell is that?"

She wagged her finger at me. "That's terrible language Leah," She nagged. "I didn't raise you to speak like that."

Yeah...sure. Coming from her.. I wasn't the least bit surprised by her passiveness. She was going to avoid till the very bitter end of anything and everything. "You can't just spray the woman with the hose for trimming the bushes that you refuse to let anyone trim on your side. It's getting into her side of the yard," my tone was even.

Honestly as an adult, it felt crazy that I had to speak with my mother like this. I got a hell of hand being dealt with my mother.

She started up from the couch, waving her hands seemingly annoyed, as if she did it hard enough I would blow off the couch and out the front door.

"Why are you on that hussies' side anyways? Conspiring?" She questioned suspiciously as she grasped her mug from the coffee table and headed towards the kitchen.

"If you'd let me get the guys up here to do a little yard work..."

She scoffed. "Oh it's always the same with you, you think I can't do for myself anymore. Well I'm just fine, sharp as a whip."

My eyes rolled around yet again. "Sure ma, time passes though, let your younger nephews do it,"

I pinched the base of my nose with my thumb and finger trying to loosen the migraine coming on as I heard her assert in anguish. "Oh, your father is probably rolling in his grave...The way he kept his yard."

"I could even pay them," I continued without acknowledging what she said about Dad.

"Why? So Embry can spend it on whatever they call dope now-a-days?" She called out. Her voice stinging me from the kitchen as I stayed planted right where I sat.

I rolled my eyes. "Well, he's eighteen now ma, it's none of our business." My patience was about ready to cap.

"You do it too still, don't cha?" She accused pointing a skinny finger at me As she stood between the kitchen and living room.

I stared over at her flabbergasted that she would even bring that up. It was absolutely irrelevant, we were talking about hosing the neighbor down and getting someone out here to cut the damn lawn.

I did have a quick thought though. I remembered the first time she smelt weed in her own home. That was not our best day. My dad had already passed six months previously. She ended up kicking me out, I was thirteen at the time. I wasn't smoking it then, just selling it for extra cash. Didn't matter to my mom why I had it. I remember pushing her off of me because she just kept on violently shaking me. Like I had been possessed. I gave her a nudge to try to get her off of me and she flung herself back crashing into my meek bedroom door, easily breaking it. I barely touched her. It was merely exaggerated on her part.

"Mom, please." The exasperation was seeping through my expression. I had to shut my eyes and take a breath and compose myself.

She huffed a big breath and continued, "Well, is it too much to ask for some decency amongst your generation."

I didn't feel up to a debate. She sucked the life out of my father in a similar way. Always felt the need to be heard, this one. I had to try to think of a good time I have had with my mother to even try to pretend that I am not going to lose my actual sh-

Suddenly I had a random thought. "Ma, you remember when I broke my leg?" I asked aloud.

She paused for a while as she crossed back over into the living room. For a bit there was this blank distant stare at the wall. Then, she seemed to have a moment of remembrance. "Yeah, I was so upset with you because you were supposed to have a recital the next week, I told you not to get on that thing." That thing being a skateboard.

"You remember how we sat together every afternoon to watch the sunset on the back porch?"

He brows furrowed as she nodded recalling it in her own mind probably. "Oh yeah, it would get frightfully cold and I'd yell at you to put a hat on," another quick pause. "So...you and Eddie?"

Can't win with this woman. "Edward, Ma, Edward," I promptly corrected. "I don't want to answer any questions about that."

"Oh, all the secrecy." I almost flinched when she spoke. "All those gifts for the wedding that people had gotten already," she complained.

Chill Leah. "Sam and I didn't even have a date set, Ma, you are the one that encouraged Edward to come around to try and see me." She acts as if she forgot, accepting gifts from Edward before I had even the slightest clue that he was back in town. Mind you this worked out for the best, but mother was always meddling. Like the female Jeff Jefferies poking her nose around to see what everyone else has going on.

I watched her stand there innocently. "That was a chance encounter, not a set up," She insisted.

My mouth hung open for a moment before I could respond. Like the wind had gotten knocked outta me. "You knew I was going to the mall that day, I told ya!" I shouldn't act surprised. I knew better.

"Oh, sure just keep on blaming me for your own problems!" She snapped obstreperously back at me.

There was a long droning silence after that. I felt like pressure was building in my lungs. As if I couldn't get enough air in there. I felt an anxiety attack approaching, and I felt like I needed a good cry all of a sudden. She went and stepped towards the front door leaving me to gather myself real quick. Her hurtful words are wearing me out lately.

I could hear a loud motor blurting up the road and stood up hearing the couch cushion creak as I did so.

I followed behind her. Raking my hands through my hair and just thought of how unmistakable it is to me that my mother has issues. I can not keep letting this get to me, but there's that collapsing feeling whenever I'm around her. A mom is supposed to be tender and feed your soul. My mother has stuffed my brother and I full of arsenic. And because of that we suffer daily until we can get a grip on what our own issues are. I still am trying to tone down my own reactions to things. I have to be responsible for my own triggers. I have to get this shit to stop already.

With every moment fleeting, I decided to try and utter a final sentence to my mother. Almost like a 3 year old thinking they've won the argument with one more little rant before fleeing to bed. "It's amazing being with him again, in case you wanted to know," It was barely a whisper that came from my mouth. I licked my dry lips and placed my hands upon the back of my hips.

"Just don't forget your mother," was what she replied with.

I shook the heaviness of this house off of me as I moved past her to get to the front steps. "I won't ma, I don't," I said plainly.

The sound of the truck pulling up was now visible. Jacob came along in his black ford parking just after the driveway in front of my rig.

I noticed my mother suddenly switched her troll mask for the moment and landed on the joyful one. She began waving her hand in the air excitedly at Jacob. "Oh hey! Look Lee, it's my handsome nephew coming to help this old bag," she said bursting with sunshine as he hopped out and jogged up.

Here came Jacob up the cement steps, bursting with positivity. Just what everyone needs. "Hey auntie, don't talk about yourself like that, you're a beautiful young woman!" He wrapped his big arms around her, lifting her up as she dangles helplessly. She began swatting and kicking her legs.

"Oh put me down!" She scolded. Ahhp there goes that good 'ol ray of sunshine! He did eventually put her down, but not before planting a huge wet kiss on her cheek. "Oh please, don't you flatter me boy."

"Hey cuzzo, how's it hangin?" Jacob pushed me lightly and I bumped his shoulder with my fist.

"The horrors persist, but so do I," I expressed lightly.

"Have you called your aunt?" My mom cut in directly and clearly.

Jacob stopped then nodded quickly staring back and forth between us. "I stopped by to see her and Jr the day it happened, been stopping by every day."

My mother clutched her collar. "In his sleep, I just spoke to him the night before," she groaned.

I fought the urge to roll my eyes. I've heard her repeat the same thing already more than a few times since I first got here.

"It's crazy," he sighed. After a beat he laughed slightly and looked back at my mom. "I brought a new starter with me, so I'm gonna need those keys madam."

Understanding she already began backing into the house. "Hold on, I'll go grab 'em. Want some iced tea, or water?"

Jacob waved his hand dismissively. "I brought drinks in my truck Auntie, don't even worry about it."

Moving her hands as she was about to rant off some garble. "Oh yeah, make sure you stay hydrated, you don't wanna end up like that Johnny Jervaise from down the block, his mother was tellin' me that he-"

For fucks sake. I popped my lips together loud enough to interrupt. "Ma, I'm gonna head out soon, didn't you say you had albums for me?"

"Ah, that's right!" She turned on her heels and shuffled off. "I'll go grab 'em."

"And the keys!" Jacob reminded as she hurried. She put her thumbs up in reassurance that she'd remember as she disappeared down the hall to the attic.

He glanced over at me knowingly. "How's she been?"

I scowled, shrugging my shoulders slightly. "Some days are better than others." We began walking towards the open garage.

"Such a fire cracker ain't she?" Jacob smirked.

"Always been, same old same," I said.

"How's Seth doing?" He shoved his hands into his pockets as he faced me head on.

"Okay, you should give him a call," I responded with a sullen tone.

Jacob agreed.

"It's hard to move away from home." A shrug conveyed my lack of words.

"Takes balls," Jacob stated. He seemed to be thinking for a moment of what to say. "So, how is it going with your mom, really?" His big arms then crossed over his chest.

I sighed and stopped near my mothers car. "Ahh, you know how she is," I state, attempting to downplay it.

"If you ever need help Lee, we are all here for you." He moved to stand directly in front of me as I leaned myself against my mothers toyota.

"I know, I just don't like to bug anybody. She's already a hand full, you think I wanna have everyone dealing with that?" I inquired with a playful tone.

His eyes widened. "Yeah, I was genuinely terrified of her when we were kids," Jacob let out a short uncomfortable chuckle.

"Me too," I stated seriously.

With a quick step forward Jacob swopped me up in his arms and gave me a long hug. I hugged him back, I felt tears stinging at my eyes but I fought them back. Emotions welled up in me, possibly triggered by the recent developments with my mother. Her memory is getting much worse, although she is still pretty young. Fifty nine. Visits to the doctor had been put on pause with the whole thing with Quil recently. She's been devastated about the news. Some days are better, but she mentions it often.

Quil was amazing to my brother and I. Jr is basically like another brother that I inherited. I am so thankful for him. I had seen him at a work not too long ago, he looked alright, tired. This has just all been really unexpected.

Jacob put me down and placed a hand on my shoulder. "We are here for you Lee," Jacob said again.

"Thank you," I sniffled. "I can handle it for now."

"Well I can help with some things between the shop and stuff, come on Leah, you can't be stubborn on this," he urged on furrowing those fuzzy brows at me.

"I just don't think I am ready to talk about this type of shit, it's just been so crazy lately." I was trying to be avoidant. I don't think Jacob was catching what I was pitching though.

"You keep going at your rate you're gonna burn yourself out." He gave me a tired puppy look with those big eyes. "Dude," He paused. "You're an awesome daughter. We all love you, we want to be here for you, and even Seth."

My hidden bitterness seeped through my tone quickly with my next response. "He's not here, he has no clue-"

"I'm just saying, Lee," he defended.

I immediately regretting responding the way I did. Get it together Lee. "You know how she is Jacob, she's not going going to do anything any kind of way other than her way."

"But now her age is catching up with her." There was another short beat and he shuffled his feet slightly. "Just promise you'll think about it?"

"Yeah, she's just so stubborn. I'm trying to butter her up to extra help, even with the yard and lawn." Not sure about it though. "Maybe I'll catch Seth up on everything," I analyzed.

"Absolutely. There's nothing worse than going through this shit alone. You need family near you." Jacob had a way of getting straight to a point. He was very good at that. And it was incredibly difficult to fight him on anything because of how absolute his manner of speaking was. "Any help needed, at all, I've got it cuz."

"Alright, alright...I gotta get going, but thank you. I will let you know if anything comes up, or if I need any help," I assured, quickly trying to appease so that way we wouldn't have to speak of it anymore than we are now.

I noticed my mother reappearing at the front door to the house. Perfect opportunity to ditch this conversation and make our way on back up to the front steps for my mother to hand me a hefty brown box with albums just like she said she'd have. She got the keys for Jacob as well, and he went off straight back to the garage.

"You make sure to call me tonight, okay?" She called out after I got about halfway to my vehicle.

"Yeah, sure." I turned then remembering Edward and I's conversation days before. "Oh! And, by the way before I forget, We're having a get together this weekend. Saturday, I'll call you with the time." I could feel my mothers protest coming on.

"Well I hope it's not at night?" A twinge in her voice mimicked concern.

I fought the eye roll that threatened appear. "Jesus, Ma, I'll just come pick you up, okay?"

"Leah, my cousin just passed away I am in no mood," she groaned.

"I'll call you tonight Ma." I promised. Then my attention scattered. "Jacob," I suddenly pointed to him in the garage, he almost jumped. Probably brought him back from concentration. "I'll send the address."

"Cool," he stated giving us a quick hug then walking back down to his truck. "Love ya'll." He pointed back at me. "Leah, don't forget to send it."

"I got you!" I shouted back as I headed over to my Wagon with the box.

---

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...

A half full bath was steaming and waiting for me in Edward's master bathroom. I was spending the night after my shift at the VFW. Edward would still be working till about 2AM. So I had time to 'spoil myself' as Edward says. Without me knowing he had gotten a luxurious bath gift set filled with all of the essentials, which I planned to use tonight. He'd be so proud, I was even working on a cheese plate with those, as I call them butter crackers, some pepperoni, olives and a cold wet pickle of course. I popped open a bottle of wine, the name I could not pronounce, it looked to be straight off the boat. It smelt decadent, almost acidic, but with a beautiful floral fragrance. Halfway through pouring the taste tester sip my phone began to ring. I did a silent prayer that it wasn't my mother.

I worked with Jr tonight, and I felt so drained by the time I was pulling up here, so I just couldn't handle any madness my mother could offer me.

Surprisingly though, it was Seth. After our quiet hellos I began filling him in on everything without trying to worry him.

"I worked with Jr," I glanced over at the time on the nightstand, those vibrant green digits spelling out 12:32AM on the black rectangular digital clock. The stand was still cluttered with my special things. For weed. "We cried for like an hour before closing," I expressed.

He stopped for a moment probably thinking of the time. "Ya'll closed early?" His sweet voice asked.

"Yeah, been like that since Quil died," I rasped. I suddenly felt how dry my throat was.

He was quiet for a little bit. I curiously checked my phone to make sure we didn't lose connection. "I still can't believe it, Lee," I heard him say faintly.

"I know buddy," I murmured back. "Mom has been talking in circles about it constantly, she was upset to hear about him being cremated."

"Why am I not surprised?"

I bit my lip hard. Sounded a little cynical, but I couldn't blame him for that.

"It has been stupid busy over here," he sighed.

Didn't sound like an excuse. But I did know I miss the hell out of this kid. Plus I hadn't held my niece in a whole year. I haven't been able to visit Seth out there since before Edward came into town. Sam and I were still together when I went over there. I helped his girl Miranda when she came home from the hospital with Elena Suezette Clearwater. 7lbs 4oz. I was thrilled. That was a beautiful side quest to distract me from my stark reality with Sam at the time.

Seth sends me pictures of her little face at random times. I cherish those.

I peeked at the time again. 12:35AM. It was a three hour time difference and he's ahead. "It's late over there, no?"

"Yeah," his voice trailed off. "Things have just been sorta shitty lately with Miranda."

My brows furrowed. "How bad?" A part of my wished it was bad enough that he and his daughter would be heading home. I'd already have rooms ready for them at my place. He just needs to say the word.

"Pretty ridiculous, you don't wanna know."

I did want to know though. I just didn't want to push him and make his guard go way up.

"Well...I know you're working and you're busy...but maybe you should come out here on a solo trip?" I suggested with slight hesitancy.

"I'm thinking the same thing. I miss everyone."

"We all miss you too acorn." I called Seth that to be sentimental and funny at the same time.

Once I made him laugh so hard at the dinner table that acorn squash and water squirted out of his nose. Dad thought it was hilarious. Mom was beside herself, horrified.

"I'm sorry you're taking the load with mom," he spoke suddenly sending shivers up my neck. "I think this next year there are going to be some changes. We'll talk about it more when I get out there for a visit."

"Wait so you are gonna come out?" I sat up elated.

"Yeah shit head, you said it first. I think it's warranted," he chuckled.

I bounced around slightly on the bed while cheering into the receiver. "Oh I've gotta send you back with toys and sweets for my little rugrat."

We spoke for about thirty minutes more about as much as we could cram into that time. He was four coffees in, working on some doo hickey for the house. I told him it was way too late to be fretting over nonsense. He needed to rest. He promised he would call a little more, and get me on the phone with Elena. He was also certain that he would be coming out to visit next month. It was nice to hear his voice. He sounded older, which was funny. Just like he had aged a bunch.

Once we got off the phone the tub was still filled half way. Water was luke warm now. I turned the hot water back on and continued on to treat myself to some snacks, wine and a bath.

.

..

---

...

..

.

I tugged at the edge of the pale pink floral cotton dress drifting up above my thigh as we drove on down the long windy roads. Edwards parents house was about two hours away. The trees were all I could see for miles at certain points. It was a beautiful day, no wind, which I was counting on to be able to wear a dress. I had no underwear on, just because.

I had my mother in the passenger seat. My cousins Jr and Embry with Jrs girl Claire. Those two were something else. They are four years apart and have known each other for years and years.

"I didn't expect the ride to be this long," my mother huffed.

I fought the urge I was afraid my eyes would roll to the backs of my sockets, instead I keep them even and steady on the bleak black asphalt ahead.

"Hey Lee, you think Jade will be there?" Embry asked excitedly.

"She'll probably come with Paulie and Rachel," Jr quickly answered for me. Which thank goodness, I could barely concentrate for some reason.

Edward was going to meet us up there as well.

"I think my thighs are starting to chafe," my mother complained.

A sharp breath drew into my lungs as I fought the urge to tell her to shut up. "Mom, maybe you should just take a quick nap. Before you know it we will be there."

Thankfully the 'kids' in the back were joyful and talkative, I kept a keen eye on Jr. Just making sure he was good. He was kind of quite, but he honestly just looked tired. An agonizing hour passed before we finally made it to the gated entrance to the Cullen commode.

The young kids, as I call them, basically fought to get out of my rig first and sped up the walkway and stairs to get inside.

Jacob was hopping out of his truck a moment after and came over to grab the carrot cake out of my hands. Edward was not too far behind, coming out the side gate to reach my rig and help my mother out. I sighed while glaring at her.

A whistle I heard and realized came from Jacob with the intent of getting Edward's attention. "Hey-yo, where can I put this?" Jacob held up the cake as he continued up the stone curved steps toward the big front double glass doors.

My mother swatted Edward away as they approached the steps. "I'm not an old woman yet," She grumbled as she started up.

He held up his hands in surrender and spun facing me with a comical grin plastered on his face. I was always impressed at how he handled my mother with grace and humor. Wish I could do the same.

His entire demeanor changed once those bright eyes locked onto mine. His growing dark with lust as he took me in. Staring up and down, appreciating me. Our distance closed within seconds. "You are a sight for sore eyes," he leaned down to kiss me which I accepted wholeheartedly. "How was the ride?" His hands slinked down to right above my buttocks.

I shrugged. "I'm happy the guys came, they already ran inside."

His head went down slightly as he took a deep breath. "Baby, this is awful timing, but I think I would like to touch you under this dress a little bit."

I bit the skin on the inside of my mouth, forbidding myself to even respond with a smile. "You are gonna have to wait," I mock scolded.

He pretended to deflate with a frown. "Yes Ma'am."

Not all of whom I was expecting was there. It seemed to be pretty intimate family. Edwards father, Carlisle, whom I used to call Mr. Suave was the first to greet me in the bright front room. I recalled when his wife Esme passed away years ago. Before Edward and I completely fizzled out - The last time- his mother was diagnosed with a form of aggressive breast cancer. I can't quite remember which stage or what the prognosis was now, but she had gotten her left breast removed. I do remember at the time being amazed at her outward positivity.

At the time she didn't think it made any sense to replace the breast with an implant. She did wear one of those fake breast cup bras for a little bit once she was fully healed. She was okay for while, although her family had gone into great distress during this time. I spent a lot of time with Edward at the hospital to be with his mom during treatments. She would fall asleep and I would read while Edward wrote in his journal. Carlisle was breaking apart during this time. So were her children. Esme was having issues, not being able to hold her bowels, also her fibro myalgia didn't help. They had taken her back to the doctors and received terrible news. Cancer is so destructive. It takes good people. Kind people.

Esme did not want to do anything further to her vessel and she choose to line things together so hospice would swoop in when things became fatal. She was so tough, took care of all of her shit before she left this planet.

Everyone else was already heading outside a side door that seemed to lead into some beautiful patio/garden. Swanky-panky.

I smiled brightly at Carlisle and his handsome features melded nicely around his grin as I walked up. I nudged him with my elbow as I stood beside him for a little side hug.

The reunion was heartwarming. Carlisle's presence was a familiar embrace, offering a sense of security that time hadn't altered. His hooked nose snorted in a characteristic chuckle, bringing back memories of a comforting past.

The exchange of greetings flowed effortlessly. "Hey old timer," I teased, my words met with the genuine chuckle that defined Carlisle's laughter.

"How's life treating you these days?" he inquired, his eyes steady and sincere.

"It's been good," I replied, a contented sigh escaping. Life had indeed been more than good with Edward. "And you?"

"Excited to see you and your family," he responded with a warm smile, his eyes revealing genuine enthusiasm.

Our conversation took a turn toward Carlisle's recent pursuits. "I'm excited; I've been studying for my doctorate," he shared, revealing a passion for clinical psychology.

"So, I'm talking to Dr. Cullen now?" I playfully quipped, genuinely impressed by his dedication.

He reassured me about handling the luggage and continued, "It's wonderful," referring to his academic endeavors.

As our discussion unfolded, I inquired about his perspective on my potential return to school. Despite his encouraging offer, I remained skeptical, expressing my view of college as "adult daycare."

Carlisle's laughter resonated. "Depending...but if you ever change your mind, my offer stands firm."

The topic shifted to the renewal of Edward and my relationship. Carlisle reflected on the challenges we faced in the past and the growth we experienced. "You both suit each other well," he observed. "We're lucky to all be where we are today."

As Carlisle departed for the kitchen, Emmett's arrival added another layer of warmth to the reunion. His towering figure and strong grip conveyed a sense of familial strength. "It is amazing to see you," he exclaimed, squeezing me with a force that left me breathless.

"I'm gonna head back into the kitchen," Carlisle announced, disappearing through a tall white archway, leaving us to embrace the joyous atmosphere of the family reunion.

Alice had found us not too long after, pulling me outside to introduce me to her hubby Jasper. Handsome guy, pretty quiet. Both Emmett and Alice surrounded me with questions of what's been up lately. I always try to think of the best things to say during the conversation. Cherry picking through what I could say to make everything appear semi normal. Life was going relatively well lately with Edward, but everything else, especially my mom was somewhat problematic. But even she seemed to be behaving herself today. Everybody was meshing well. Conversations were taking place everywhere, felt very natural. Just a big ol' game of playing catch up. Eventually I stood over by a tree a little further away from the rambunctious talk taking place. Quietly watching everyone together. It felt great to get to this point of calmness.

Edward had gone inside at some point to help his father in the kitchen. Not without kissing me and holding me before hand just to say 'I love you' and to whisper in my ear, "I can't wait to fuck you."

If his eyes were lasers I'd have holes littered throughout my body. I could feel them on me earlier as I moved from person to person conversating. At some point I did have to check in on my mom, I had sort of received the eyes from Rachel. She was directing my gaze over to my mother who had been sitting with Edward's aunt and was absolutely bawling her eyes out. Aunt Dotty said mom got upset about the death of her cousin Quil. I almost had to find her xanax. Thought it was going to be this big Night At The Opera act and everyone would stare. But, it was quite the opposite. I went to offer her a hug and she basically shooed me off and away saying, "Oh, I'm fine, such a big hubbub!"

Having to walk away from that was easy. I was thinking a nice blunt would be nice right now as I leaned against a wall near the pergola on the far side of the yard.

Jade was strolling out from the sliding doors when her eyes caught mine. She came up to me holding a travel mug. Her thick eyebrows repeatedly rising up and then back down. My brows furrowed as I tilted my head to the side inquisitively. "Up to no good. Whatcha got?"

She held it out towards me, "Girl," she stated in a way that made me feel safe enough to take the mug from her grip. "I gave some to Embry, Emmett had some. Rachel even had some." Her grin pulled up into a vibrant smile.

My eyes now squinted with a small smirk gradually growing on my lips. "What is it?"

"Magic." She looked on, in her eyes I could see she was feeling whatever it was in the mug. I looked down at the slick shiny surface.

"Shrooms?" Shot in the dark.

She nodded.

At first I thought against it. I thought of where my mother was. When I took a quick glance around the yard to see her and Edward's aunt had vanished. She was probably in the kitchen talking Carlisle's ear off. What momma don't know won't hurt her. "Shit, if your sharing." With that I tossed my head back as I took a swig. I didn't want to down the whole thing of course. I'd experimented enough in life to know that this was obviously something to be taken in moderation.

"Can't remember the name, but it's legit, and it is potent," she warned.

"Thank goodness I only took a little," I laughed while slightly giving her the eye. She could be saying that spiel before letting someone just chug the cup. "Tastes so dry." I smacked my lips together as the bitterness overtook my whole mouth. Felt like my mouth had gone dry.

Jade stifled a laugh. "I know, super earthy too."

"Is there honey in that?" I asked swallowing hard again trying to rid the taste. I sipped my Sprite.

"I added about a tablespoon." She shrugged.

"Not terrible." I grimaced. "Rachel had some?" I was surprised and almost didn't believe her, but when I glanced over to the other side of the yard Paul and Rach' were standing together, with a her eyes roaming around. Probably tripping the fuck out staring into the decorative translucent yellow bulbs strung about nicely. All the while Paul would cross his arms once and shake his head once he spotted me watching them.

"She's feeling good right about now," Jade chortled.

I giggled, "Surprising, she can be such a stiff sometimes."

"Oh I know. At least Paul is driving." She shrugged. "Gonna go see if I can convince Jacob to have just a little bit."

"Well be careful, he should only have a little bit." I felt like I sounded like one of those contradictory mothers right about now.

"We all need a little magic in our lives." Her floral perfume is all she left behind as she swayed away. I shook my head giggling softly. Embry ain't even ready for all of that woman.

The psychedelic effects of the shroom tea had begun to take hold, casting a surreal and enchanting aura over the gathering. In this altered state, I felt drawn to explore the far side of the yard, seeking solace and the gentle embrace of the breeze.

As I stood by the fence, observing the trees that appeared to be melting and morphing into intricate patterns, I did have mushroom tea earlier so it shouldn't surprise me, it just caught me off guard. Feeling it for sure. Edward's voice resonated through me. "You are so gorgeous," he declared, his words vibrating through my very being.

Turning towards him, I found Edward standing in this otherworldly atmosphere, seemingly illuminated by the ambient lights. The surreal beauty of the moment merged with his words, creating a captivating scene that transcended the ordinary. The altered perception added a layer of intensity to his compliment, making it feel like an ethereal declaration echoing through the psychedelic landscape.

I smiled longingly at him, he grinned. "I can't wait to get you home." He basically growled it out.

I was feeling like I had an itch needing to be scratched. I just wanted to pull up this dress so badly and get him on his knees so I could ride his face. I love it when he does that. He lets me control the pace, he plays with and teases my clit. I could tell through his dress pants that he wants me to touch him. We are at his dads house with family around. But, Edward was my absolute exception. I will act up with him. We play into each others kinks, we love to see one another squirm from desire. We get nice and pent up and then we just have at it.

I lost my inability to filter my words. "You may not have to wait that long to touch me under this dress," I said darkly all the while taking pleasure from his apparent arousal.

His charming grin grew wider. Those beautiful eyes growing darker with what looked like delicious lust. "Don't test me Leah, with the way I'm feeling right now I can give you maybe two minutes of heaven," he teased.

We both laughed eventually getting interrupted by Alice letting us know the food was ready and everybody needs to eat. She seemed to hop around that one, so much energy in that small itsy bitsy body. She's adorable. And her hubba bubba Jasper with the bright eyes just keeps to himself. He has been either out front a majority of the time or helping in the kitchen I presumed. As we filled the space inside I could hear the rambunctious and some intoxicated chit chat squeezing into the kitchen and dining room. I had found Carlisle and asked where the bathroom was.

Edward had disappeared amongst everyone. I took my time going inside to partake in the food.

Everything just felt so exquisite now. My thighs rubbed gently against one another as I glided along. This fabric on my body was to die for.

Damnit I'm hungry, I should pee first.

I casually walked through into the large sun room before the back patio, I continued into a hall and turned right where I believe Carlisle said the bathroom was.

I'm horny too.

Stepping farther away from all the chit chatter I looked up from the wood flooring. Edward...His bright smile shone back so brightly. He was walking towards me, heading the opposite way towards the bumbling space filled with family. I felt a rush of spontaneity come over me. I had a glutton-like need to feel this man. Right now.

All afternoon we had been exchanging glances, and teasing one another. I honestly couldn't wait till we meet up at my place tonight. I did have to pee slightly. But I can just pee after.

A wicked smile was immediately planted on my lips. I couldn't help what I would do at times. There was nothing but space and opportunity. I'm sure some of what I was thinking had shone upon my face, judging by his suspicious expression. I opened the first door that was closest, right between us. Edward stopped right in his tracks.

"What are you-" He couldn't even finish before I yanked his arm first and then we flew into what seemed to be the broom closet giggling like a giddy child playing hide and seek. I felt around blindly, poking Edward in the face a few times until I finally felt the string for the Click! light. The dim bulb let off a dull perpetual buzz.

"Hey," I took a deep breath out. It was slightly cramped, and the ceiling was slanted so Edward was slightly crouching with a crook to his neck.

"Hi?" He grinned a bit perplexed by my sudden action. I kissed him then our arms creeping around one another methodically, and I took a long deep breath. Our lips moved together like two dancers. Swaying and warping against each other hotly.

I pulled back, his eyes were still half closed, a smirk forming on his pink lips. "I meant it when I said you may not have to wait long," I said brightly.

His hands slid down to my upper thigh, playing with the fabric of my cotton dress. "My goodness, woman, you are going to drive me mad."

We couldn't ever really deny each other. As much as we tried, most times we'd just give in. We were incapable of getting bored with one another, and even if it got to the point in which we weren't sexually active with one another the connection is just on a completely different level of infatuation. My trauma will sometimes pop up in the for front of my mind shouting DON'T TRUST THIS! but I dust that thought away immediately.

I acted quickly and began fumbling with his khakis until finally unlooping the front button, and reveled in the sweet success while running my hand over him.

"We only have a couple minutes before anyone notices." I squatted down and wasted no time. My cool hand wrapped around his warmth.

He hissed and looked as if he was trying to get a hold of himself. "What the hell are you even doing?" His laughs rumbling in his chest.

I smiled up at him and whispered between strokes, "everyone is plastered, can't be too loud." I took his length entirely into my mouth. He was pushing against the back of my throat and I let my jaw slack a bit more.

He stifled a moan that shook his body violently. "Leah," He groaned softly, his sharp emeralds shooting fire into mine. He looked like he might make me stop, with one hand hovering above my head. After I sunk my mouth down over him a few more times I glared up at him. He seemed as if he relented. Physically ignoring the thought to stop, he just decided to savor the moment. His hand was now gently stroking my hair away from my face as I continued slowly up and down his length. "Just like that baby," his voice rang through my ears like beautiful chirps from the bluebirds outside.

My muscles ached.

I needed this.

And he has the audacity to just exist and it makes me want to be so damn naughty for him. Edward loves it, and I love him.

I pulled him out to slap his length against my tongue. My lips then pursed, saliva pushing out as I rubbed him all over my lips. Another low moan erupted from a guttural place in his chest. I spat on the visibly pink tip now moving my hands over his length thoughtfully, all the while still maintaining our never ending eye contact.

"sexy," his voice intensely dense.

I latched back on and moaned vibrating around him. His eyes dark with lust broke contact with mine as he let his head hang back for a moment. My free hand raked over his hard abdomen, his hands slipped through my hair and held on. His eyes bore into me once again and proceeded to fuck my face, but shortly after I could feel him shaking from the sensations. His grip loosened when his breath became ragged. "Fuck, your mouth is incredible." I could keep going like this, although I hadn't really thought about the fact that we're not home in this moment..

Probably realizing the same thing, Edward quickly helped me onto my feet, mere moments passed before he swooped me up off of the wooden ground. His strong arms held me as I straddled him. There I was floating in mid air, in the broom closet with the man that I had completely fallen in love with all over again.

Our lips touched. We did have a certain fervor as we tasted each other. He groaned against my lips as I kissed him with such crushing force, hanging on for dear life. Edward guided himself into me. He filled me up almost painfully and completely. We hung on and moved against one another clumsily trying to find a rhythm, and as I bounced against him I could feel my pussy soaking his length.

"You feel so good," I moaned with a shudder. I was sure my dress was going to give and rip open from the stomach up at any moment, but it didn't.

His hand clasped over my mouth as he got me in that spot just right. Garnering an intense response from me.

"Fuck!" I sharply exhaled.

"Shhh, you're being soo loud Leah, oh fuck," he breathed out with a rasp to his voice that had me dripping around him, clenching tightly to him. He kissed every part of me he could reach.

It felt like we were vibrating against each other. My body was on a high frequency. I myself may have been feeling some of the effects from the little bit of penis envy tea given to me earlier. So no, I was not paying any attention to auditory things.

He gripped my behind with his free hand and leaned his back against the wall, knocking over a broom by accident in the process which provided quite the fright. It clamored down and landed against the other wall near the door with an abrupt racket. Our eyes both shot to the broom. "Shit," he laughed.

Concentrating once again on the task at hand, I brought one leg down to give myself leverage while he still had my other thigh clasped firmly against his hip. I bumped against him feeling the burning come back below my stomach. I was like a savage animal at this point getting to the top of my own little mountain. And coming with Edward felt as exhilarating as throwing myself off. Our breathing became erratic and heavy. My eyes fluttered shut as a wave was just about close to hitting me.

"Mm, fuck that dick baby, sliding yourself up and down, ah fuck-" Edwards palm went off my mouth for a moment to clasp against the side of my neck. My hands were just instinctively rubbing my nipples through the dress. "No underwear on this entire time?" I heard his harsh rasp as his fingers slightly tensed around my neck.

His calloused hands then swooped over the top of my hips. Immediately receiving a validating moan back from me. "I love you," he whimpered softly against me. Our pace increased , his hips pumped faster. I felt his hand go back over my mouth. I think it probably looked as if I was weeping, that's what I thought I sounded like. Nothing coming from my vocal chords was going to be making any kind of sense.

I think I could hear myself mumble as we continued our erotic grinding, "Oh my god, Edward yes!" It was stifled a bit, muffled by Edward's hand still clasped over my mouth. His hand shortly after was replaced by his hot mouth. His entire length filled me up over and over, it was a feeling I could live in.

"I love the way you call out for me." His breath tickled my chest. "You own this dick baby," he moaned lowly against my lips. Puffy and red from all the biting and ravaging going on. He descended onto mine again and I was in ecstasy. Our tongues began small haphazard circles. I could feel and hear our bodies meeting, his balls slapping against me.

I felt myself on the edge.

I love this man. And I basically swore or tried to be quiet earlier. I just couldn't help myself, I could feel an outburst coming on. "I love being a little tease for you," I couldn't help my giggle.

He grinned while biting his lip. "talk that shit baby, I'm your slut." So fucking sexy. His voice was like silk. It's all I need.

A hypothetical pipe burst in my lower extremities, I could feel warm liquid curving around my inner thighs as I fought the urge to shout. An intense heat washed over me as I came hard around Edward. I heard his exclamations of how close he was. It was not long before we climbed to that peak together and held onto each other with such might. Not very long after we were both panting, hurrying to get ourselves together.

And now I really had to use the bathroom. Pee pee, I gotta friggen pee. I almost knocked Edward over on the way too. We were both cackling like old friends with a secret joke between us as we stumbled out of the closet.

He kissed me hard and breathless nudging me back against the wall nearest the door to the broom closet. "You're so fuckin' naughty." Edward's white sparklers shown wide. His pink lips strained in an uncontrollable grin. His hands grasped mine to firmly hold them against the walls up above my head. The hallway seemed a lot more narrow as he got even closer to me. "My cock is soaked in your juices," he groaned softly against my throat.

"I love you, Edward," I sighed.

"I love you so very much, Leah." He kissed my collar bone and pulled away slightly to show me his gleeful expression. "Counting the minutes to where I get to bury my dick deep inside you again."

Gosh he is so much better at that than I ever am. He has a way of making my thighs clench.

"Your balls heavy again?" I kept my voice quiet still listening for any footsteps coming down the long hallway.

His hips lurch towards me and push up against my thigh. I gasped by the sudden pressure. "You've got me shaking baby."

I felt my bowels were ready to explode. After one more kiss and as our distance increased I could hear the series of uncontrollable laughter from Edward as he trailed off, his footsteps heading back towards the sun room and to the kitchen.

The sleek white and stainless steel modern design of the bathroom had me feeling quite poor. I walked out into the lilac printed wallpaper, feeling it under my fingertips as I stretched my arms out on either side.

"I'll be ready for seconds here soon." Edward shot me a quick glance once I appeared in the dining room doorway. I immediately glared at him hovering near the massive Island counter with all sorts of food and snacks organized around it. I grinned. I felt my face growing hot again. The shrooms had me at a slight buzz now. My eyes were half closed and I just couldn't stop grinning.

Most everyone had already served themselves by the time I got in there. All the aromas from the mac n' cheese, to the collards and the fried chicken. My goodness I was in heaven. I sat next to Alice and we were going back and forth over how she found out that Edward and I were together by 'accident'. I guess his phone had gone off with a text from me sometime last month, she had seen my name and was elated. I had missed Edward's family. Although they were by no means perfect, there was a comforting sense of normalcy about them that I loved to be around.

We sat and chatted for a while. I kept complimenting her cute little pixie cut. Her small self could always pull of those hair styles. Short, long, Mohawk, didn't matter. She had such a magical feel to her. Drenched with excitement and positivity. But, I have seen her get rowdy a few times. Some of those times had been with me of course. It's difficult to go anywhere looking your best without someone giving you a problem. One of those stories we reminisced about for a while. Paul and Rachel were entrance and over heard our retelling of the time we got into a huge fight with a bunch of girls on the beach, during spring break.

Some girl threw alcohol in my face. And I, am not a happy camper when caught off guard. Anyway, next thing I know I'm swiping the hem of my shirt against my eyes to clear my vision. Not long after I saw Alice's small figure dashing towards the one who threw the drink. To my amusement she absolutely destroyed that girl. My cousin Rebecca was actually there, and so was Jacob and Jr. I believe Emmett had been there that day and Edward was supposed to show up the day after. All of us girls descended onto the rats that were talking shit and wouldn't leave us alone. All because we weren't from Long Beach. We caught up a bit more, she did ask about my mother, but I decided it'd be best to not disclose much yet to Edward's family. It just wasn't necessary right now. Especially since my mom was literally in the other room. Didn't feel right.

Not sure how much time had passed. But eventually people were beginning to file out of there. Jr and Claire went back with Jacob. Embry and Jade hitched a ride with Paul and Rachel so I had only my mother to worry about as far as dropping people off and such. I was dreading taking her back home. She had complained for more than half of the ride, being persnickety about every little thing. I was getting some extra food plates together to take home, I could hear my mother loud and clear out front.

"Oh? Did you forget about me already?" She asked.

I rolled my eyes before the words were even done leaving her mouth. Wasn't sure who she was talking to now.

"I could never," I heard Carlisle replied nicely.

"Oh why thank you!" Her tone sounded excited to say the least. I was done putting the food together and headed through the kitchen back into the well lit front room, where the front door was already propped open. "This was nice, really," she stated.

"Loved seeing you all again, it's always a pleasure," he assured. They hugged one another, a short side hug.

"Thanks Carlisle," I sung sweetly before using my free hand to wrap around his neck to give him a quick hug.

"See you two soon?" Carlisle asked me with his mouth right beside my ear.

"Of course!" Edward and I said at the same time. His sudden words made me turn towards him quick. I smirked in his direction as he grasped the bag filled with the extra plates of food from my hand. I relented, giving it over to him.

Since we brought separate cars Edward has asked if he should just bring mom home. I almost selfishly wanted Edward to take my mother home instead of me doing it. But I politely shook my head and asserted that I would do it. I don't know why I did that.

"You sure?" He questioned after I got mom into ol' Berta. I liked that name for the wagon. Berta.

"Yeah, totally, I got her."

His warm hands were up at my cheeks, cupping them as I melted onto him. I threw my arms over his shoulders as he kissed me softly. Those lips could cast spells if need be. "I can drop her off...besides, you've had an eventful afternoon." One hand slid down to my backside as he moved his face to nibble my ear. I felt weightless in his arms. "I can do it."

"Nah, I'm good, trust me, I'm as sober as a judge," I guaranteed.

He looked at me apprehensively. "Alright," he sighed. "We staying at your house tonight?"

"Yes," I gave him a small kiss. "Key is under the mat."

His gaze trailed over quickly towards my mom in the car and then back to me. "I seriously can take her babe, I don't mind," he repeated, giving my hand a tight squeeze.

I sighed, "I've got it hon."

He looked at me for a while, probably wondering if he should give up on that. Finally, he gave in to my stubbornness. "Alright." Another quick kiss while releasing my hand, I felt a cold shiver up my spine. "Love you baby, be safe."

Before we took off I slipped on a pair of sweat pants since the chill was starting to hit with that wind.

.

..

---

After an unbearable hour and a half in the cozy Berta with my mother gossiping, the road eventually became pitch black. There weren't really any street lights out here. Graced by the lack of humanity. Other than the few houses scattered off in the distance that provided little visibility. I didn't see anything really in the road, other than of course the road.

I suddenly felt the car shake violently. I could hear my mother shouting obnoxiously beside me, gripping anything she could wrap her hands around like a mad woman. I could barely watch the comical performance as I put on the brake and held the steering wheel tightly. I struggled to the turn it slightly as I gritted my teeth.

"Oh no! What was that? What's wrong?"

"I don't know, Ma." I grumbled not being able to help but sound annoyed. The car slouched once more before I settled into the gravel break down lane. Parking break was on and my hazards were the next to go as I hopped on out to check the car.

Couldn't see much but did notice my side of the vehicle was slanted in the back left. At an angle. It must be a flat.

What luck.

I went back to the driver door, opening and reaching in to snatch my purse from the middle seat spinning back around to once again gaze at the tire in the oppressive dark. I was almost in shock, thinking perhaps I was imagining this whole thing. Maybe I was asleep and just did not know it yet. Fat chance.

Before long my mother was out of the car looking around incredulously. Once she was seeing what I was glaring at near the back of the vehicle then she became quite displeased.

I began digging in my purse. Trying to find my phone. "Hey, it's alright mom," I reassured. Still towing through my belongings.

"No it's NOT!" She began in that shrill tone she had when she got really upset. "We're in the middle of heck-if-I-know, and you're over here scraping together your belongings as if we're gonna walk?!"

I felt like I was suffocating. "For Christ sake Ma, I am trying to find my phone!" I snarled as my attempt at finding the phone continued to disappoint me.

She began to hyperventilate and I swear I was close to fainting. We were only maybe thirty minutes from home. We can make it as long as I can change the damn thing without anything else going wrong.

I heard her let out a small cry. In response my eyes immediately rolled to the back of my head. I finally found the phone and spun on my heels clicking the home screen repeatedly to now find the flashlight button. With success I got the light on and checked the tire for sure this time. The tire looked obliterated. Frustrated, I shoved the phone towards my mother as I headed for the trunk. I was praising God I at least prepared for these sort of things. I think I even had wheel wedges back there. I did end up finding my wrench.

I trudged past my mom while pointing at the phone. "Hold that steady while I change this."

"You have a spare?"

"No shit!" I began placing the wedges in front of the front tires.

"Leah, language!"

I began loosening the lug nuts. "Ma, just hold the light will you, please?"

I got out my jack and the donut. The flashlight bounced around my mothers clumsy hands. Thankfully I had done this before so it came naturally. I knelt down, feeling the cool plastic for the exposed metal plate specifically for the jack. After some time I got the back of the vehicle raised about six inches off of the ground. I unscrewed the lug nuts the rest of the way and placed them on the paved road by me.

"Ya alright Ma?" I asked.

"Oh, I don't know," she huffed.

The rhythmic clanking of the lug nuts echoed in the silent night as I worked diligently to replace the flat tire. The flashlight illuminated the scene, casting long shadows in the darkness. My mother, still flustered and irritated, held the light unsteadily, struggling to fulfill even this small task.

As the tire was secured, and my thoughts drifted to the comfort of home and the warm presence of Edward, a subtle smile played on my lips. The anticipation of being in his arms alleviated the stress of the moment. However, the serenity was abruptly shattered.

A sudden gust of wind whipped past me, and in the blink of an eye, I caught sight of my mother's bright red jacket disappearing into the darkness. Startled, I dropped the wrench, and a chill ran down my spine. I stood frozen for a moment, the gravity of the situation sinking in.

"Ma?" I called out, my voice wavering slightly. The only response was the eerie silence that enveloped the night. My heart raced as I fumbled to pick up the fallen wrench, my mind racing with uncertainty.

Immediately I stopped what I was doing dropping the wrench again with a louder knock to the pavement. I was absolutely frozen with sudden fright and facing the direction she ran. After a long moment of no noise alarm bells began to ring in my head. "Mom, what in the hell?! MA!" I shouted after her.

What the fuck is going on tonight?

I just heard her hollering as she went through the thick-it. I let out another shout to her and then was frozen for a moment really feeling the heaviness of this night, it was pitch black out, there was nobody around for miles. I glanced over at my phone placed atop my car and saw the no service signal. I groaned while heading towards the tree line in a frantic state.

My hands surrounded my face, pulling them all over. Thinking, should I just rip myself apart and let the wind take me? "Sonofabitch!".

I couldn't hear anything now as I approached. It was absolutely quiet as I stood there for a moment. Hooting in the distance made me jump. The owl calling was just one of a succession of hoots, they seemed to sound as if they were coming from everywhere. My eyes darted in every which way.

Just as things began to quiet back down it felt as though something had fluttered near my ear. I plunged down to a squat and covered my head with my arms. In sheer terror and panic I let out a shrill yelp. This couldn't possibly be how I die, will it? Stuck on the side of a long dark road with a flat, other passenger runs into the woods to never be seen again. It felt like there was a pit in my stomach.

A great length away I heard rustling and a painful groan to my right. The distance was great through. The noise had to have been almost a quarter mile back. How on earth?

Terror coursed through me and exited through the next shout that bellowed from my chest. I scurried all the way to her, it felt like I was running in sand. Like I couldn't get there quick enough. Maybe from the shaking. Who knows?

There was my mother, laying in the grass, dead leaves crunching as she struggled to get up. She was absolutely hysterical. Tears glistened on her cheeks from what I could see, it didn't seem like there was any heavy damage.

The darkness of the night seemed to intensify as I helped my mother to her feet, her tear-streaked face reflecting the terror that gripped her. The chilling wind cut through the air, carrying the haunting echoes of her panicked cries.

"Mom, where's your jacket?" I asked urgently, trying to make sense of the surreal situation. She continued to sob, her words a jumbled mess of fear and confusion. The night held an oppressive stillness, broken only by the distant hooting of owls.

A sense of foreboding settled over me as I looked around, the dense forest appearing more ominous than before. The rustling leaves and distant groans added to the eerie atmosphere. I could feel the panic rising within me, matching the rhythm of my heart.

My mother's skin felt clammy against mine, and her pallor was disconcerting. The dim light from the flashlight caught the desperation in her eyes. I shivered, both from the cold and the unsettling events unfolding in the darkened roadside.

"Ma, we need to get out of here. Something's not right," I said, my voice trembling. Holding onto her as if protecting her from an unseen threat, we stumbled back towards the car. The unknown, the darkness, and the unanswered questions lingered like an unsettling fog.

"Mom, where the hell did you go?" I asked. "How did you make it all the way over here?"

She didn't answer with anything intelligible, she just kept blubbering, moments passed of that until out came a tear jerking shriek that I barely recognized as my own mothers. I was freezing and horrified, and realizing as I helped her up while placing her bare arm over my shoulder that she had lost her jacket. Now that we were nearly pressed against one another I saw how pale she looked. Her features seemed sunken in slightly. Ghostly.

I tried to concentrate on walking back to the car. My legs felt like Jell-o. "Hush, now let's get you back to the wagon, it's nice and warm in there."

She began limping along side me, putting most of her weight onto me.

By the time we made it halfway her outpouring mangles sounding groans shifted to whimpering and muttering under her breath.

"Then maybe you can tell me what just happened," I whimpered anxiously. Why did she run into the woods like that? Something isn't right. Is she hurt? Did I miss something? My mind races with questions, and the silence around us is deafening. I can feel the weight of the unknown, a knot tightening in my stomach. I don't want to find out what's watching us, but the feeling lingers. What if...

Now my mother definitely has her moments, but this was the weirdest for sure. I wasn't really sure of what to make of it. Didn't really want to think about it now that we were struggling to keep footing back to the car. The dead leaves crunching beneath our feet as we trailed along. The sound was startling in the dead quiet.

Every exhale I could see our breath. The cold inhale stung my lungs.

I was petrified, unsure if I really even wanted to know what was going on. My mother was going to provide me with nothing coherent enough. I was sure of it.

After helping her into the passenger seat and buckling her lap belt I went back over to the tire drivers side back tire. The wrench and blown out tire still had to be thrown into the trunk. As I reached down feeling the frigid metal as I gripped it in my shaking hand. I jumped up straight. Shivering with fright. Hearing something rustling in the trees about 50 feet away, I was choosing to ignore that by not even looking at the tree line. I also tried not to let the silence get to me. No mammals scratching around in the thicket. No owls hooting... What was watching us right now? That's what I could feel. The hairs on the back of my neck stood. Whatever is watching I don't want to find out.

I wondered if what I felt was to be true. As I picked up my feet to move around my feet felt like cinderblocks. My lips pressed together. The tire feels like it weighs a ton. Why now? Why tonight of all nights? I toss the wrench into the trunk with a louder clank, trying to shake off this eerie feeling. The woods are too quiet. No normal sounds, just that rustling. I can't shake the feeling of being watched. My feet move like they're in molasses. What's out there? Fear clenches my chest, and I just want to get out of here.

"What the fuck," I puffed out begrudgingly. My body contracted as I shoved the trunk down with a slam, shaking the car lightly. Another gust of air hit me, slightly moving the trees with it. Eerie rattling from the leaves came from the direction of the woods. My heart was pounding in my ears.

I hurried and was still questioning my own reality and sanity. I ran to the drivers side like a little kid shutting the hall light off and darting to their room as if a malignant shadow figure is behind them, ready to pounce at any moment. I slammed the door shut next to me.

After a beat, I turned the heat up full blast and placed a shaky but meant to be comforting hand against my mothers slacks. A sharp exhale from me came not too long after. "Oh-Kay, let's get you home, it's all alright," that came out as a mere whisper, barely audible above the noisy heating vents.

She just gazed forward to the road ahead, quiet as a mouse.

---

EPOV

The drive to Leah's house from my dads was long. I was anticipating ending the night off with a little more of what went on in the broom closet. I love it when Leah does crazy shit like that. I was rock hard the whole way home just thinking about her. Leah's juices now dry on my cock was a beautiful reminder of how good I've got it. Once I got into her house I had placed the leftovers I took into her fridge.

A long shower was what I needed to soothe my nerves. I just needed Leah here, thighs spread before me as I tell her to beg for my cock. Once she's begged I would slip into her, completely filling and stretching her tight warmth around me. Such a dirty girl. I wanted to fuck her so badly, I need her, she just feels so fucking good. I couldn't even jack off anymore. I need my love to touch me to feel the real pleasure she brings me. She teases me so well. Such a dirty girl.

My little slut. Mine.

Slut in a non derogatory sense. In a sexy sense. Like that we were willing to do just about anything for each other or to each other pleasure wise.

Not too long after the cold shower I was half expecting Leah to walk in at any moment with me in just a towel. But then I got some sweatpants on and was glaring at the time. She should have at least been home by now.

I was growing concerned. When I went to retrieve my phone I saw I had received a text from Leah sometime around 9PM signifying that something had happened on the way back, but that we'd talk about it when she got home in twenty minutes. Immediately after reading that I was waiting out on her front porch hands snaking through my hair yanking on it out of nerves. The message had me a bit worried. I knew how Sue could be and just wasn't sure of what to expect. I knew I should have just taken her home.

I heard her vehicle approach before I even saw it, but I was already out in the driveway, arms crossed as I lingered patiently. She parked and was out and looking almost catatonic.

"Leah?" I asked. My throat suddenly felt dry. "Darlin', what's wrong?"

She shook her head pulling me in for a long deep hug. By the time I finally got her inside she was spilling out as much as she could muster. It seemed like it was difficult to explain. Blown out tire, stopped somewhere in the outskirts of town where no one is around except animals roaming in the woods around them. Sue ran off for some reason, ended up super far from where the car was. Something seemed off with Sue, and Leah was worried now.

I wasn't sure where the disconnect happened. I tried reasoning with her, "maybe your mom had a hallucination?"

"I have no fucking clue Edward, but it scared the shit out of me," she stared deeply into my eyes. Tears welling up. "She told me she saw something, or, someone, I-I...I honestly have no idea what I'm even saying at this point-"

"Hey, shush..." My heart was hurting seeing her like this. "She could have seen an animal? Or just hallucinating? Things like that can be horrifying." After a moment of tense silence I cleared my throat. "Have you and your brother thought of other options for your mother?"

"Like?"

"Maybe some added assistance, like an RN?" I suggested lightly.

Sigh. "I can manage her, it...This was just a little creepy is all."

"I know, I know...If you need me to help in any way I am here for you too Leah." I just want this woman to be stress free.

"Thank you baby."

"Of course," I spoke quietly still. It was so quiet at points that all I could here was the clock above the doorway to the kitchen clicking softly. "You want me to get you anything?"

"She was quiet the whole way, then once I got her home she just started sobbing," she expressed almost vacantly.

"Jesus, Leah." I was getting the heeby jeebies.

"I keep getting the cold chills, like something is hovering around me." Her hand held a quick claw position near her chest and then clenched.

"This really shook you up huh?" I've known Leah for quite some time. Now, I was gone for eight years at some point. But, even from what I've seen recently from this gorgeous woman, it takes a lot to alarm her. Her hand went up to rub against her neck and then upwards to rub her plump lips harshly. "Leah, you're gonna start freaking me out," I was actually becoming concerned. Now that I was looking at her in the light she looked drained of color. "Is there something you're not telling me?"

She shook her head quickly.

"I'm gonna make you some tea." I didn't want to leave her side so I just guided her to the kitchen with me. "You want me to roll you a blunt?"

She took a deep breath out, her hands placed on the counter firmly now. "Abso-fuckin-loutely."

I tried my best at a laugh while setting up the kettle. "I will do that for you." It was silent as I set up a mug with the boiling hot water and the tea bag. I added a little honey and covered the top of the mug with a napkin. I began to think of something, anything to say. "Is your brother still coming out next month?" I passed her the warm mug and she happily accepted, but her hands were trembling.

"Yes," she sighed.

"Good."

"I know, I can't wait to see him." She pressed the side of the mug to her mouth and chin for a moment, looking off at nothing really. Just looked like she was thinking really hard. She tsked and shook her head slightly. Or maybe she was shaking?

"My gosh Edward, there was just something so off about what happened tonight," her voice sounded so soft and helpless. I felt another pang in my chest.

I tried to slide over the last part of what she said by replying with, "So, is your brother bringing the whole fam bam?"

"I think it might just be him, it'll be a short visit," she said quickly. She seemed to be kind of scattered, or at least her thinking was. I could see it on her face. "Can we just go to sleep?" She asked almost child like.

"I'm not leaving your side." And I mean it.

I took out a swisher and the grinder from the cabinet Leah keeps her goodies in. I quietly rolled the blunt for my love, once I was done we both made our way upstairs to her bedroom.

"Maybe once I get her to see a doctor-" she lamented.

I really was going to let her finish. But her mother is draining. Whatever Leah experienced tonight was enough to scare not only the shit out of her, but hearing what kind of happened was enough to put me on edge. So let's do a plan of action rather than sitting around waiting for something bad to happen. "Leah, I love you so much that I am never willing to lie to you. When are you gonna get it huh?" I asked as I swung the door open.

She went over to the bed with her placing the mug on the night stand and flopping down onto the fuzzy dark pink comforter. She was still wearing that pretty pink floral dress with some black sweatpants on now.

I continued on my short rant before I got distracted. "You're mother is emotionally abusive, mentally abusive, she is partially deranged in her mannerisms and what she thinks is normal." Leah's eyes closed by the time I was halfway done with my sentence. Her breathing was steady, seemed like she had finally stopped shaking. "There has to be some boundaries eventually," I ended quietly as I approached the end of the king sized mattress covered in a tan colored fuzzy cozy blanket.

I almost thought she had fallen asleep until she moved her arm to rest across her face. Covering her eyes. "It's hard enough Edward, I can set some boundaries, but I guarantee when I do she will just do what she normally does."

I almost fought to get the next sentence out. I swallowed hard and continued, "Leah, then at that point you have to ask yourself which is more important. Your sanity or your mother?"

"Edward," she warned.

I did not bite my tongue, though her tone made me a little reluctant to go on. "Leah, you know I'm being honest here." I brought my knee up resting it against the firm mattress. I dove to lay right beside her grasping her thigh.

"She should be taking her medication," she said in disdain. "She'd kill me if I put her away like that."

"Do you hear yourself?" My grip on her thigh got tighter.

"She'd never speak to me again," she uttered broken with her chin wrinkling slightly, looking as if she were getting ready to cry.

My heart felt her pain. I just wanted to make it all better.

"Leah..." I began rubbing her legs. "People don't always want to do things that are good for them." Her arm retreated back to its resting position as she stared back into my eyes. "It is going to be difficult, but you have people that love you and are able to help. Assisted living would be a God send for her, cognitively."

She looked so exhausted as her mouth opened slightly to begin her response. "She's just in that house all the time."

"Baby, I am so sorry," I said as my eyes stayed fixed on her beautiful face.

Leah's eyes held a mixture of exhaustion, frustration, and a lingering sadness. Her vulnerability tugged at my heartstrings, and I wished I could take away the weight she carried on her shoulders.

"I can't leave her alone," she whispered, her voice cracking slightly. "Even if it means sacrificing my own peace."

My fingers continued to trace soothing patterns on her leg. "Leah, you're a compassionate and caring person. But there has to be a balance. You deserve peace too. You're not abandoning her; you're ensuring that she gets the care she needs."

She let out a heavy sigh, her gaze fixed on the ceiling. "I know, Edward. It's just... It's complicated."

I leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "I'm here for you, every step of the way. We can figure this out together."

The room was enveloped in a quiet moment, the weight of unspoken emotions hanging in the air. Leah's hand found mine, and we intertwined our fingers, creating a connection that transcended words.

"Let's focus on getting some rest tonight," I suggested, trying to offer a momentary escape from the complexities that surrounded us.

Leah nodded, her eyes closing as she nestled into the warmth of the bed. I stayed by her side, a silent sentinel in the night, ready to face whatever challenges awaited us. As sleep slowly claimed us, I hoped that the dawn would bring a sense of clarity and a renewed strength to navigate the complexities of life. I couldn't help but have a passing thought of the conversation earlier. It left as quickly as it came once my hands stroked her soft hair away from her face.

.

..

...

We had to drop off groceries at Sue's on Sunday. This was now becoming a repetitive ritual on the weekends. Sue seems to try and take up all of her daughters time. To my dismay, if I'm being honest.

It's alright, that is her mother. But due to recent events, and her declining sanity I have been having serious doubts about Leah's increasing involvement in Sue's day to day activities. If it wasn't for the stress induced by Sue's presence I would be more likely to just accept the relationship. The woman has a way of sucking the fun out of almost everything. And Leah always seems drained after these visits.

I do remember first meeting Sue. Long story short she ended up chucking a porcelain dish that was intended for my skull if it hadn't been for my reflexes. I had brought Leah home an hour and a half later than what was agreed upon.

That was at a time before Leah and I first made an upgrade to the thing we had going when we first met. She was a hot fire cracker. Still is. I remember falling heavy for her the moment I locked eyes with her at that bar, her boy toy got mushed in the face. Meanwhile Leah's sassy mouth got her the pleasure of sucking me clean that night. Which she was more than willing too by the time we exchanged a couple words out on the sidewalk. Her hair curtained the sides of her perfect face.

"What, you think you're so bad?" she said but her tone sounded teasing. Like she wanted to try and find out about me.

I saw a glint in her eyes as I spoke which excited me, "come and find out then."

I remember actually being exhausted the next morning. And unlike the other string of one night stands I'd had in the past, she didn't irritate me. Everything about her peaked my curiosity. I never wanted her to leave, but she did eventually leave early the next day after our romp. Nothing much was said between us because we still barely knew each other. We did not owe each other anything. But all I could do was think about her, even if I tried to fight off the thoughts they would come back ten fold. I couldn't stand the time immediately after that. Even then she was a busy body. Working three jobs from what I found out from a trusted source. I asked everyone about her. She became my standard, my everything. The way she felt against me that night. I just couldn't get her out of my head. I couldn't cum without thinking about her. She was mine before she even knew it.

There was a party though, maybe a month later, and she was there with a small group of her friends. My gosh, I had to be careful with my thoughts as I recalled it. I adjusted myself quickly as I thought about how she looked that night, fucking goddess, she was wearing a bright yellow tube top with a tight dark brown mini skirt. Her hair was pulled back halfway with whirls of curls framing around her gorgeous face. I made a bee line for her, tracing my eyes up and down her finely toned and moisturized legs. I was finally in front of her, and I couldn't stifle my grin what so ever. She smiled up at me and said, "where the fuck have you been?"

I immediately asked for her number and was basically ready to beg her for a date. Thankfully she spared me the embarrassment and accepted.

The night of our planned date I was incredibly eager and nervous by the time I arrived to the little house in the middle of a half deserted block. My friend at the time, Anthony had warned me about the Clearwater's. Didn't care how good the tail was, at the end of the day that family is cursed. Is what he said. I didn't give a fuck, I was more than ready for that hot vixen to show me exactly what she was all about. I wanted her entirely. I went up the steps and knocked on the screen door to be greeted by that debilitating angst of a woman. Sue.

I sat with Leah's brother Seth as I waited for her to finish getting ready.

Sue drilled me, and I mean boy, did she. I was amused at first as she asked just about every unimaginable question to be asked when meeting your daughters date for the first time. There was talk of herpes, which I don't have any of that. After that I became increasingly annoyed. Then came the talk of drunk driving and what's been on the news lately to that affect. Date rape drugs. All of which Seth seemed like he'd heard before over and over growing up, because he barely flinched from any of the conversation between Sue and I.

I was younger back then. And was without a doubt getting ready to tell Sue where to shove it, but then Leah had come out and swooped me away. A solitary, "Bye mom," came from Leah. All the while, Sue was on our tail until we passed the doorway. She shouted out. "Have her home by 10PM!"

Barely got a chance to check Leah out with how fast we got out of there.

"My mom is crazy, I'm sorry," she apologized as she just smiled and waved at her mom. I glanced over at Sue but she was already shutting the front door.

I had her spin for me more than a couple times once we had gotten to my truck off to the side of the driveway. She wore a decadent long sleeve tight black dress calf length, but for me she was leaving so little to the imagination in a fantastic way. I had already studied these curves once before and was absolutely mesmerized by her and how her clothing just held against her so nicely. Later on for our date I envisioned pulling up her dress and licking up her pussy as we sat at a swanky restaurant and ate our meals. I had the greatest time ever with her. There was a spark between us, and the way she looked at me had me smiling and talking like a bumbling idiot. I hadn't laughed like that with any woman ever besides family.

Her and I had taken the scenic route back to her mothers. We also stopped back at one of my places in the city that I had been renting at the time. The time was used well so I could give into my urge of needing to taste her. Leah always looks amazing, and that night she had me at the point of erotic explosion. I was practically hanging at the end of my rope. Plus, I was younger, my libido was insane. She was on her back writhing about on my comforter, and I remember she tasted so sweet as I had my head between her thighs. I asked her that very night, "who do you belong to?" She looked to be in ecstasy at what I was doing to her. At how well I was pleasing her.

Leah would moan intermittently and respond to me by saying, "you, Edward, you!" She was so pleased with me that she fucked my dick with her tight hole. She milked my cock so good. Told me exactly what she needed, and I provided it.

It was well worth it.

Took a lot of schmoozing for Sue to eventually get over her getting home late. And that she did. I spent a lot of money that year.

Leah was already twenty years old at that point. So, that should shed some light on how impractical the mother is.

Once we got in there I cracked open a couple of windows because it smelt like a stale cigarette. Afterwards I sat on the couch awhile after helping Leah get her mother into the bathroom. She has been having to wear incontinence shorts is what Leah had told me in the car, it's a recent development. Sue is not thrilled about it either. Leah has been telling me that she has been overtly cranky. Which is why she wanted me to tag along in the first place. Stating that her mother is nicer when I am around...I don't necessarily see the difference, but oh well.

I was waiting patiently. Leah had finished bathing her mom, I heard a couple grunts of discomfort and dramatic squeals coming from Sue. I couldn't resist, my eyes kept rolling from the theater act. My patience was wearing quickly.

Eventually, the bathroom door creaked open.

"Leah," I called as I started getting up. The living room felt increasingly small the longer I sat, so any excuse to get up was a good one for me.

"I've got her, I'm good!" She replied quickly. I immediately deflated as my ass hit the creaky couch again.

I settled in slightly as their footsteps trailed down the hall until they came out and over to Sue's bedroom right before the loveseat, across the way from where I sat on the mustard colored couch in the living room. Sue was covered in a pink fluffy robe, hospital socks secured on her feet as she shifted her feet along the wood floor painfully slow. Leah walked beside her, cutting her steps short to make sure she didn't get too far ahead of her mom.

Sue had this somewhat sullen expression, anytime Leah would shuffle forward too far ahead her face would change to a deep frown. Her wrinkles outlining the features on her brown face.

I did love how much Leah loves her mother, but there was just something seemingly off with Sue's erratic behavior lately. Making my distaste for her grown exponentially.

"Oh, I wish you would just move in here with me, so that this would be easier for you Lee Lee," I heard her moan and groan in the bedroom. Leah didn't respond. But I could imagine the face she'd make when her mother would usually say things like that. I knew she couldn't stand that shit. So it pained me to hear, cause I could imagine how it makes Leah feel. She's already doing the most. But Sue always wants MORE.

I almost threw up.

Not really, but my gosh that was worthy of a dry heave. It had to have been the third time she had made that comment since we got here. I heard quick steps and the door to her bedroom shut so that Leah could finish getting her dressed.

I shifted a bit on the couch restlessly as I glanced at the time on the wall near the entrance to the kitchen. We had already been here a whopping two hours. It was supposed to just be the groceries.

My knees began to jitter up and down as I chewed on the side of my nailbeds. I was about ready to wait in the car. Don't want to be rude. If I were really childish I could just throw a tantrum on the floor. Begging for this to be done already.

The frail door wisped open. Leah appeared, her usually fierce look replaced with a fraught frenzy. Her brows furrowed, a sight that had me somewhat worried.

She began wringing her hands together, glancing toward the kitchen as a signal. Probably heading to wash her hands. Surprised that my joints didn't creak from restlessness, I got up. My gaze inadvertently shifted to Sue's dim room. The shades were drawn, casting a ray of light onto Sue's naked wrinkled back.

An unpleasant sore marred the left side of her lower back. She sat stiffly on the edge of her bed, rapidly rubbing her right arm, the scarlet red skin almost resembling blood seeping out from what was left of it, appearing almost purple and rotten. I wasn't sure how long I'd been watching.

My stomach turned, a feeling of nausea washing over me. Leah's joint from this morning popped into my thoughts, and I questioned if I was experiencing a contact high. Shaking off the unsettling sensation, I refocused as Leah's arms wrapped around my waist.

"Baby?" her sweet voice reached me.

"Hm?" I stared down at her, only then realizing I was trembling. Leah's arms tightened, trying to steady me. Her head tilted to the side, a slight smirk on her lips. "Ready?"

I paused for a beat, stumbling over my words as Leah gripped me harder. "Yes," I finally responded almost robotically, her hands running up my back.

"What's wrong?" Leah's brows furrowed once again, her dark eyes bugging with anticipation.

I had to speak quickly to avoid suspicion. I glanced over to Sue's bedroom, now with her back to us, likely still sleeping. "No-uh-nothing, I just...uhh," I sputtered out, skeptical. Sue's silhouette was moving slowly up and down with her deep breaths. Probably sleeping. Is she? I stared for a while longer half expecting her to suddenly jolt up and chase me out.

As I moved my eyes back to Leah, her brows were now raised. Her big eyes almost bugging with anticipation, probably waiting on me. I wasn't going to tell her, but I felt faint. Her holding me was actually keeping me steady. "Uhhhhhh, hello?" She questioned, her warm arms loosening. Her hands grasping my waist. "Are you shaking?" She asked suddenly. Before I could come up with anything she immediately said, "you look pale, Edward."

"I'm sorry," I assured quickly. Still trying to shake the unnerving feeling that just over took me. "It's nothing." It was something. I don't know what I think I saw. But I don't think I'm coming back over here anymore. I did my best attempt at a smile in the moment I don't really think it worked. Leah just stared at me, puzzled. I shifted forward, moving her with me as one of my hands moved down to one of her plump ass cheeks. Mine.

It was like a stress ball.

I had a knot in my throat, and wasn't really sure of what I thought I just saw. But really wanted to push it out of my brain.

I couldn't.

Quick image of Sue popped back into the forefront of my mind. I brushed it away again only for it to linger around in the background of my mind for a while.

Leah reached up to touch my cheek with her smooth heated palm. "Okay...Are you ready?"

I nodded promptly heading out of there. Smacking a cheek to really let the nerves loose as we got back out of that house and into my truck.

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"I have missed you all day," I whispered, our noses touching lightly as I rocked my erection against her inner thighs. She was already naked, and I just couldn't help myself.

"I've been so tired, but I couldn't sleep."

"Mmmm, waiting for me?" She always smelt so good up close. I could smell her sex with the combination of the soap she uses and it will consistently drive me crazy. I kissed her and bit her lip gently.

"I'm just so fucking needy."

My cock twitched, Leah had a way of making me feel so desperate for her. We had an insatiable hunger for one another that never seemed to go away. I was never sure if this woman ever knew the power she has had over me.

"I'm just fascinated that you're not bored of me," I said playfully, groping her thighs that were spread wide against me.

She chortled, kissing me deeply then. "Never," she said softly as she reached down between us to gently rub her hand right where I needed some friction.

"You are such a good girl," I moaned.

"Tell me what you need baby." Her warm breath tickled my neck as she bit and licked the skin there. My mind felt like mush. Everything else felt like it was melting away, I always turned into some hormonal boy who needs to satisfy the yearning I felt for her.

"I need to feel how wet that pussy gets for me, have you begging me to fuck you with this cock."

She freed me, now stroking her warm hand up and down my shaft. I closed my eyes and rumbled a low groan. "Fuck baby."

"Mmm, darlin'," I sighed with my hands still moving all along her thighs and plump rear. My eyes began to roll back as I rocked against her. "I love you," I sighed delightfully pressing my face into her honey suckle scented hair. Felt so soft.

I wanted to concentrate, but something was off. Not with Leah, but...I could feel the hairs standing on the back of my neck. I turned my head to the side slightly feeling watched. I locked in on a dark figure near my fence in the yard, staring through the window. I immediately stopped my movements, a cold sweat took over.

I felt Leah's hands snake up my side, lightly scratching down my back. She may have said something, but I couldn't hear her right away. It's just there, not moving.

It felt cold suddenly as I pried myself away from Leah. My skin began to prickle. I shot up from bed, much to Leah's confusion. I kept my eyes locked onto whatever this dark shadow outside was.

At first, I glared in disgust and immediately just wanted to burst through the window and beat the pulp out of whomever the freak staring back at Leah and I was. I had an innate nature to need to protect this magnificent woman.

The little bit of light shone from the inside of my bedroom to outside didn't reveal much. Just a black shadow, I could swear I can see two eyes looking back at me. It freaked me the fuck out. Something was off.

However, about a moment passed and suddenly noises came crashing back through my ears, loud echo's at first.

"Edward?" Leah asked. "Baby, what's wrong?" She sat straight up covering herself with the sheet pooling around her, those dark eyes burning in my direction.

I shook my head feeling crazy and horrified while heading to my closet to grab the bat I kept there. I ripped my eyes away for a moment. I didn't want to freak Leah out so I needed to answer her with something. "Peeping Tom," I grumbled.

I heard her beautiful laugh and the soft impact her body made falling back onto the mattress as I winced. I just don't think I found this shit to be amusing. Creeped me the fuck out.

"Hope they enjoyed the little they got to see," she joked lightheartedly. Well at least she is calm. That's all that's mattered to me since the freak events with her mother.

I huffed aloud. "Leah," I almost snapped at her unwittingly, not from annoyance, I just really didn't find this funny. I darted out into the short hallway and towards the back door, dashing outside barefoot with my feet slamming against the cold crisp grass, wooden bat gripped tightly in my hand. The crickets welcomed me outside with their happy chirps.

As I approached exactly where I had seen the figure, now, there was nothing. I stood right near the window to my bedroom glaring towards the wooden fence. My hand rubbed over my mouth. I was trembling because someone was just here. Perhaps I scared whoever off. I thought, trying to brush this off.

I inspected the grass in case of footprints. There were none, only my own to account for. My now freezing bare feet were leaving tracks behind me.

A loud knock at the window startled me. I spun around to see Leah, her body creating a shadow on the grass near me. She was staring back at me looking more concerned. She was signaling for me to come back inside.

My hand slipped up to rub the back of my neck to stop the goose bumps from rising. I nearly darted to the back door. In the dark I could have sworn I heard the door shut. I reached it, and discovered it had. I jiggled the handle surprised to realize it's locked. I went back over to the window confused to see the lights had been completely turned out. It was pitch black in there, I couldn't see a damn thing. If this was a fucking prank...

BANG BANG BANG

My fist slammed down onto the paint worn door as I called out Leah's name. I stood there waiting for a moment and began knocking again when there was no movement. Through the crack in the door I could see the hall lights went out. I shouted for her again and heard nothing.

I could feel the darkness locking me in. I felt surrounded, but there was nothing I could see as immediate danger. But that put me on edge. Because my senses were telling me something is creeping around.

I probably looked like a psychopath. I didn't even want to look around the yard at this hour to see the nosey neighbors peeking through their curtains. Wishing for a bird to snatch me up so they can continue eating their popcorn to settle in for the entertainment. Probably thinking to themselves with a scoff, 'lovers quarrel'.

I was feeling disturbed mostly, slightly panicked. I could feel cold sweat forming over my brows and above my lip. I swiped the moisture from my face with the back of my hand.

My spirit was getting ready to burst from my body. All I needed was a loud noise, or perhaps a rabbit skittering across the grass swiftly enough to rouse a soft rustle amongst the dewy blades.

The hall light and outside light were back on now. I stormed into the room. Leah was still on the bed, same as I had left her. Was this some joke? What just happened to me? "Leah, what the fuck?"

Her head shook profusely and a stunned/perturbed look began to settle across her expression. "What?" She had no look of guilt on her face. She was showing genuine concern now.

I awkwardly stepped to the side, still convulsing. "You didn't hear me?" I completely ignored that the lights in the bedroom were all in fact still on. Leah had the sheets pooled around her waist as she toyed with her gorgeous hair. I pointed my thumb over my shoulder still trying to catch my breath. "I was banging on the back door for like I don't even know how long."

Her brows furrowed as she slowly shook her head. "Edward, you were outside the whole time up until a few seconds ago when I heard you coming down the hall." Her hands now resting on her knees.

"You didn't hear or see anything?" I asked more deliberately now. Fully serious and aware that I probably looked deranged. My body felt wracked with the cold air that stung me out there.

She shook her head again, her eyes worried. "No, Edward-"

"So you didn't shut out the lights or lock the door?" I questioned sharply, wincing at my own tone of voice. Immediately wanting to apologize. But, I didn't, I wanted to hear her answer me.

Leah did not stir even slightly from my tone and her chin went up as she raised her head a bit. She just continued gaping at me with that confused look. "Not at all."

I trembled again. "Okay." Fuck, I hadn't felt this way since I was a kid. Tormented by the thought of being trapped or cornered. My heart was still racing a mile a minute. I placed my hand over my chest still receiving random breaths of air every other moment.

"What happened?" She challenged, getting up from bed without the sheets attending. "What aren't you telling me?" Her body pulled me back to what we were doing previously. Which, did in fact calm me slightly. Some nookie is always amazing with Leah. But I still felt incredibly unsettled.

"I fucking swear I was just yelling and you didn't hear me?" I questioned helplessly.

"No Edward..."

"Leah," I began but she shook her head with her brows furrowed now.

"What happened with the peeping Tom?" She challenged.

"I have no idea what just happened." I shook again violently. "I-" I stopped short, not wanting to reveal anything further to her, in fear that she may either get freaked out herself, or think I'm nuts.

"Honey," she had spoken so softly that I had barely heard her.

"Baby, maybe I'm that exhausted," I whimpered weakly. I have been working a lot. "I-I don't know." And wasn't sure if I should say anything more. I was still questioning my sanity. What really happened just now? Did I even want to know what was watching us? Something was watching us. I have no history of seeing things, even in my most depraved or inebriated state.

I gazed over at Leah while letting out a deep breath. She said nothing. Just holding her arms out towards me, it felt like we were magnets as I drew closer to her. Her touching me was a sensation that I could stew in for infinity.

"I-I'm sorry," I whispered against her neck. Breathing in her sweet scent of honeysuckle.

She shushed me as we both lay across from one another, our faces mere inches from each other. I could appreciate the brown freckles and beauty marks that decorated her smooth skin marvelously. "No, don't be. Let's get some rest tonight," She said. Her breathing much steadier than mine still. Her slender fingers stroked through my hair and breezed across my face.

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This chapter was SUPER fun to write! It was no easy task. It took me two whole months on and off. I hope anybody that has stumbled along this, or has been reading since the first chapter was put up has been enjoying the read. Please review. I know this chapter may be somewhat unexpected as far as how the story is turning out. But it felt right. I love chaos every now and again. ໒(⊙ᴗ⊙)७✎▤ -A