*FLASHBACK*

Bella POV

"Trust me, she believed everything you told her. She's probably thinking of the perfect dress to wear to our pretend wedding."

"Who says I was kidding?"

I turned to look Edward in the eye.

"Enough with the kidding. Please tell me you're joking, Edward."

"Would that make you feel better?"

"Why do you always insist on rushing me to do things and springing unrealistic ideas on me. It's like as long as I'm with you there will always be a lot of rare and rushed proposals sprung on me. I know you're a rare find but I'm not used to living and experiencing what only happens in fairy tales and romantic movies. Why do you want to marry me, don't you think it's way too soon. You haven't even met my parents."

"It could be a nice surprise for them."

"Yeah it would be a surprise alright, I'd be giving my Dad a heart attack before he's fifty. If I agreed to marry you, next you would want me to pop out a kid as soon as possible then another and another and I'd be all domesticated and all that other stuff."

"No. I think we can hold off on kids for a while, a very long while."

"Pitter patter of little feet not your thing?"

"No but if you wan-"

"No. Finally something we agree on."

"You make it sound like we're always arguing and disagreeing."

"Don't we, Edward. You're always trying to plan my future."

"Alright. I'll stop making plans as long as you vow to keep me in your life until your heart stops beating."

"Okay, deal."

Edward's phone started vibrating and I was starting to get used to it always going off.

"It's my Mother."

Edward answered and I could hear them discussing him working too hard and Esmé's trip.

"She's fine, she's still as gorgeous and perfect as ever. She's right next to me as a matter of fact."

I hadn't realized who Edward was talking about until the last part.

"Sure, no problem."

He hands me the phone, my eyes opened wide. What am I suppose to say to her? I'm going to stumble and trip over my words.

"H-Hello Mrs. Masters, I hope you're having a wonderful time on your getaway."

There were a lot of "Yes Ma'ams" on my end of the conversation. Edward didn't seem interested in what we were talking about. When the conversation ended I handed Edward back his cell phone.

"Now where were we?"

I felt Edward's lips on the back of my neck and the shivers that came along with any contact with him.

"Don't you want me to tell you what your Mother told me?"

"Not interested."

"How come?"

"I know the woman like the back of my hand. I already know what she said."

"Alrighty then. I won't tell you what she said." I teased but he seemed unfazed.

Edward got up, picking me up with him and walked through the maze of a garden with me in his arms.

"Where are we going?"

"To my room."

"Ohhh okay."

He chuckled.

"You sound disappointed and nervous."

"No. I'm just curious, why?"

"I do have you all to myself for the entire day."

"I have legs. Put me down."

"Not until we're there."

I know it would be useless to argue with him.

"Fine. I'll let you have your way...for now."

Edward chuckled at my words.

"I always get my way. Your permission isn't needed, I yield to your demands only because I desire."

"Aren't we full of ourselves."

"Nothing in this world is off limits to me nor out of my reach."

I thought for a second.

"You can't buy love."

"Love is overrated."

I don't know why hearing him say that gave me an ache in my chest.

"You do have feelings and emotions right?"

Edward smirked at my question.

"What do you think I am?" He asked me, his tone was cold.

"It's just you don't show much emotion..."

"I care about Esmé."

So he only cares about-

"And you. I care about you quite a lot."

Why does he want to marry me if he doesn't love me, does he only want to possess me? I don't think I could ever be happy being a trophy wife. I wonder if 'love' and 'caring about' means the same thing to him.

When we passed the breakfast table I blushed.

"You never answered my question."

"What question was that?" He asked nonchalantly while pressing the elevator button. I still can't believe he won't put me down.

"Why do you want to marry me?"

"Why not?"

"Don't do that. Please tell me why?"

"I've already told you. I want you, all of you. I want you mind, body and soul. I want you in every way possible. I want to visit every corner of your mind and leave my mark. Our relationship is young but I already know that when it's time for me to take have a wife, it will be you. I want you to think and breathe me. I'm a jealous man Isabella and I won't deny that, I want to possess you and I won't have it any other way. I want to tie and bind you to me in every way possible, marriage happens to be one of those ways."

Wow. Talk about intense. Why does this excite me but frighten me at the same time?

The elevator dinged and the doors opened. Edward stepped out with me in his arms and I knew we were almost to his room.

"So this is going to be like carrying me over the threshold of your room?" I joked.

When we entered Edward's room it was dark. It's the middle of the afternoon and his room is almost pitch black.

"It's dark."

"Are you afraid of the dark?"

"No."

"Then we don't have a problem."

I guess he likes to keep his blinds and drapes closed. Edward placed me on what felt like a bed. He turned on the TV then handed me the remote and said he'd be right back.

I felt his cell phone vibrating right before he put me down, why does he always have to take a call. Who keeps calling him?

Chill Bella, you knew what you were getting into when you got into a relationship with a billionaire oil tycoon...

I could see a lot better with the TV turned on. The light from the TV let me get a good idea of how Edward's bedroom looked, it was pretty neat. I wasn't surprised that it wasn't the least bit messy but it didn't even look lived in.

The height of the TV practically started near the ceiling and went straight down to the floor.

I continued to gaze around his room, everything was modern luxury.

Everything was perfect, aligned properly and in place. Everything was definitely spotless and shiny, not a speck of dust anywhere. All of the furniture in Edward's room was black and modern and the walls were painted a very dark gray. There were a few white and slate-blue accents here and there to go along with the black and dark gray. His room is very tastefully done which isn't surprising either.

I lied back on Edward's bed and it felt like heaven but it's a lot firmer than the one in my room. Maybe this is Edward's taste in mattresses. His sheets feels amazing, I wonder what's the thread count on these and why does anyone need black bedding? I lied back and thought about Alice, I wonder if she's having the time of her life. I took out the new phone I got from Edward and scrolled through it. There were only two contact numbers, he and Alice's. I took a selfie and texted it to Alice with the caption: "The mysterious Edward Masters showed me his bedroom."

She texted me back two minutes later.

Are those Charlotte Thomas bed sheets!?

Huh? I was clueless. I got up and looked at the sheets, how does she know what brand of sheets these are? What normal person can tell the brand of bedding just by looking at it?!

I responded: That's it! No more internet or fashion magazines for you and no more TV shows about style either!

My cellphone started ringing and I answered.

"So the mice are playing since the cat's away huh? What are you doing in Edward's bed!?"

Alice's background sounded really noisy but I didn't have any trouble hearing her, she nearly deafened me.

"Nothing! He brought me to his room to spend time with him but he dumped me on his bed then disappeared."

"Good, I know he never returns."

I rolled my eyes at her.

"I can tell you're rolling your eyes at me, Bella!"

"What have you been up to all day?"

"Omg you have no idea! I've been drinking the finest wines, chatting with the crème de la crème of the fashion world, and I even gave Donatella my input on some of her newest drawings! I'm helping her design a couple of pieces! Can you believe it, Donatella Versace wanted MY opinion and views! She says I have great style and such impeccable ideas that I can be the future her someday. I'll be walking in her next show, a petite girl like me! She said I can take home whatever I want, I'm in heaven Belly!"

Even though Alice was screaming my ear off I couldn't help but smile.

"Just remember to breathe, try not to overexert yourself and quit the wine drinking, it's still just the afternoon."

I could hear someone calling Alice in the background.

"I have to go, she's taking me to lunch. Don't wait up for me and don't do anything that I wouldn't do!"

"What's that suppose to mean?"

"No sex!" She yelled then hung up the phone.

I was speechless and my ear felt like it was about to fall off, I hope she's not drunk already.

I lied back and scrolled through the channels, I pressed the guide button and there were sooooooo many channels. I flipped through all of the latest movie releases and TV shows. Omg there are episodes on that haven't aired yet! The GoT season finale isn't for another three weeks. I flipped through movies that were on but aren't coming out until a little over a year later. Edward is really living the life, he gets to see Movies before they hit the theater. I wonder if there's a theater in this mansion somewhere, I bet there is.

Edward doesn't really strike me as a TV person though.

I couldn't decide on any of the new releases to watch so I picked one of my favorite old TV shows, 'Courage The Cowardly Dog'.

Is it so wrong to still love cartoons while in my early 20s? I think not!

I haven't watched this episode in a long time. This really creeped me out when I was little. I didn't sleep too good for nights after watching this episode when I was a little girl. It's the one when Eustace steals an ancient artifact or something then an undead mummy stood outside of their house repeatedly telling them to "return the slab". Eustace was being stubborn and stupid as usual, he wouldn't return it even though they were being plagued. He should have just returned it.

I was beginning to get really cold so I pulled the covers over me. Why does Edward keep the temperature in his room so low anyway. Now that I think about it, besides my room, the rest of the mansion is just as cold. Does Edward like living in a freezer?

The creepy episode of Courage The Cowardly Dog ended and I watched a few more episodes until I switched to Looney Tunes. What a Classic. The 1950-1969 Looney Tunes episodes were the best. When I think about it, all of them were great except the 2011 remake. That was crap.

Bugs Bunny has always been a rabbit after my own heart. I laughed at all of the hilarity until I cried. If Foghorn Leghorn had left the Barnyard dog alone from day one, he wouldn't have gotten into so much misfortune...but what fun would that be? Where would I have gotten my kicks, they don't make cartoons like how they used to. All I keep seeing on TV are ridiculous reality shows.

I had somehow tangled myself up in Edward's sheets while laughing. I tried to untangle myself but it was difficult, I'll let Edward help me when he gets back.

Now this is what I call a vacation, lying in bed watching my favorite shows all day. Will Bugs ever stop missing that left turn at Albuquerque.

"My my my, don't we love cartoons."

I nearly jumped out of my skin!

"Edward you almost gave me a heart-attack!"

"My apologies."

I looked around for Edward but I didn't see him. This room is so big, where the heck is he?

I felt a hand on my back and got startled which caused me to fall head-first out of the bed.

"What's the matter?"

"What's the matter, you scared the living daylights out of me and have the nerve to ask me what's the matter!?" How did he get lying behind me anyway, I didn't feel the bed sink even the slightest.

"Maybe you're just paranoid."

"How long have you been in here?" I could feel the blush creeping up my cheeks.

"An hour and a half.

"And you didn't say anything?"

"You looked to be enjoying yourself quite a bit and I didn't want to disturb you. Didn't you notice me sitting in the chair in the corner?"

Omg, he's been watching me laugh hysterically for almost two hours!

"No."

Darn weirdo, he knew I didn't have an inkling that he was in here with me! What an invasion of my privacy...but then again this is HIS room.

"I had no idea you were such a cartoon lover."

How embarrassing, if only this cold floor would open up and swallow me whole.

"Don't laugh at me."

Edward picked me up and placed me back on the bed, am I that light to him or is he just that strong?

"It's all in good fun."

"You always say that but you're not laughing with me, you're laughing at me."

"I wondered what you did in your spare time when you're not doing volunteer work, now I know."

"If you're trying to say this was your way of getting to know me better, I think it's creepy. Sitting in the corner of a dark room watching me without my knowledge is creepy, stalkerish behavior."

Edward grinned.

"I'm not laughing, Edward."

"Does that make you uncomfortable?"

"Of course, what normal person wouldn't be uncomfortable with that. When I think about it, you're always making me uncomfortable."

"Do tell."

Edward was staring at me so intently and I could feel my face heating up. I suddenly felt butterflies in my stomach, why does he make me feel this way?

"Stop staring at me."

"I've already told you I find you fascinating."

"But you're staring at me like I'm food."

"You do taste quite delicious."

Images of what happened at breakfast flashed through my head and I felt my entire face redden. Edward still hasn't given me back my underwear.

I thought for a second and decided it's time I return the favor.

"Um... D-do you want to continue what we were doing earlier?"

I couldn't read what Edward was thinking, he rarely ever shows expressions or emotion on his face.

"I must say I never expected you to ever initiate intimacy, you're just not the type to."

Edward took my chin and lifted my head so I would look at him.

"Ask me again but this time look me in my eyes."

Looking into Edward's eyes, I asked him again and as soon as I uttered the last word, his lips were on mine and I felt completeness. My fingers glided through his hair, over his shoulders and under his shirt.

His hand rested between my legs while he rub his finger between my lips then slid it inside me, I could barely keep myself together.

As Edward stood in front of me I attempted to undo his belt buckle but couldn't get it unbuckled. I didn't need to look up at him to know he was probably grinning at me. He unbuckled his belt then pulled my dress over my head and undid my bra. I now sat before him completely naked, this isn't like the other times, I was usually halfway or mostly clothed those times.

I tried to hide myself with my hands but Edward pulled them away and kissed them.

"Don't hide yourself from me, you're perfect."

If I'm going to do this I'm going to have to use my hands. I slowly pulled them away from my body and mustered up the courage to undo Edward's pants and zip it down. Black boxer-briefs came into view, he watched me while I slowly reached my hand in and took out his already erect penis. I could barely wrap my hand around it.

"You don't have to."

"I want to."

Wow, I've never held a penis in my hand before. Edward's penis felt hard as steel and looked intimidating. Then realization hit me like a bag of bricks... I've never given oral sex before, how could I forget something like that!? I'm going to try the best I could.

I slowly brought my lips to the head of his penis, opening my mouth as much as I could to fit him in and gently sucked. Edward ran his hands over my breasts, squeezing them and playing with my nipples.

He stood in front of me while I sat on the end of the bed, I won't dare look up at him, I'm too embarrassed.

I lubricated his penis as best I could with my saliva and began sucking harder.

Edward instructed me on what to do, directing me on what he liked and wanted. I never knew it required so much tongue skill.

"That's a good girl."

He ran his hands through my hair and held the back of my head, moving my head the way he wanted it to. He pushed my head further and further down every time.

"How much of me can you fit into your mouth?"

He pushed further into my mouth until I gagged although his penis only reached about half way in. Maybe I could have fit more if he wasn't so well endowed.

"Suck faster and harder."

I did what I was told and heard Edward groan.

It feels like I've been pleasing him for forever, I don't know how long I can keep this up, my jaw is already starting to feel funny.

Be patient Bella, Edward is always patient with you.

Edward started thrusting into my mouth faster and harder.

"Are you enjoying this?" He asked me.

I nodded 'yes'.

"I want to hear you say it."

Edward pulled out of my mouth and I told him I was enjoying it.

"Where do you want me to cum, I'll cum anywhere you want me to except your pretty little face."

That hadn't really occurred to me.

"How about I cum right here?" He asked, gesturing to between my legs. I was unsure.

"I don't want to get messy." I told him.

Edward was looking at me expectantly.

"How about in my mouth?" My answer seemed to really please him.

"You're such a sweet little thing."

I hope it doesn't taste bad. When I think about it, Edward has never had a problem eating mine.

Edward guided my head and I opened my mouth to receive him. His thrusts were quick and deep and I kept gagging.

"Suck harder, Isabella."

I heard deep groans and grunts coming from Edward and before I knew it I felt a warm substance in my mouth. I couldn't put my finger on the taste. I don't know if I like or dislike it.

Edward tilted my head up so I was looking at him. He pushed his penis as far as he could get it in my mouth.

"I want you to look at me while I cum in your mouth."

He held my head still while he finished himself off in my mouth.

My mouth was getting full and I had the urge to spit it all out. It doesn't taste bad at all but I know I don't like the consistency but I still swallowed it anyway.

"You were perfect." Edward told me then kissed my forehead. "Did you enjoy it?" He asked me.

"I did."

Why is his penis still hard?

"Isn't your penis suppose to go down once you ejaculate?"

Edward laughed and told me not to worry about that.

I watched while he stripped off his clothes, everything he does he does it so smoothly. Edward had the body of a Greek god, muscular and chiseled.

"Lie down on your back."

"Why?"

"Don't you trust me?" Edward asked with a smirk.

I nodded.

"Don't worry, I won't do anything you don't want me to."

Edward parted my knees and climbed on top of me supporting himself with his hands. He instantly began kissing me and it made me wet. His tongue entwined with mine while he fingered me and every sound I made was muffled by our kiss.

He made his way down to my breasts, capturing one of my nipples between his teeth then sucking gently. I placed my hand on the back of his head keeping his head there, I didn't want him to stop. I felt a warmth building in me as Edward worked his finger inside of me while rubbing my clit with his thumb at the same time.

Edward moved over to my other breast and he kissed my nipple before slowly teasing it with his tongue. His teasing turned into rough sucking and I felt a second finger enter me and cried out from the pleasure and pressure I felt. I could tell I was getting close.

Edward's mouth was now absent from my breast and he had now positioned his head between my legs. His tongue glided between my lips and I quivered when I felt it inside of me.

Edward did magical things to me with his tongue and when he sucked on my clit I couldn't contain it anymore. I had began shaking.

He pulled his head away and I quickly tried to pull him back but he only smirked at me.

"Edward please."

He began stroking his member with one hand and fingering me with the other. I couldn't take it anymore and started grinding myself on his finger. He pulled his finger away and positioned himself between my legs.

"What are you doing?"

"Relax."

He rubbed his penis between my lips and massaged my clit with the head of his penis. His penis was covered with my wetness as he continued to rub himself on my clit and push at my entrance.

I was so close.

Edward rubbed my clit with his thumb while he pushed the head of his penis in my entrance and the pressure building up in me became too much. It was like an erosion and I cried out in ecstasy.

Edward held me still as he found his own release, emptying himself in my entrance while some splattered on my clit and lips.

Edward leaned forward and gave me a kiss on my lips but I noticed his penis was still as hard as ever. Does it ever go down, he seems insatiable.

"I know you didn't penetrate me but still, am I going to get pregnant!?" I asked him above everything else.

*END FLASHBACK*

During the present...

Rosalie POV

"What deals, Rosalie what's he talking about?" Confusion and worry were written all over Bella's face.

I could see the amusement dancing in Emmett's eyes. Son of a bitch.

"Nothing of importance Bella. Don't trust him, he's a snake!"

"Oh, I'm a snake am I. That's very interesting coming from you."

He wouldn't... He'd get into problems with Masters and it would cause a lot of issues if Masters found out he's been seeing the woman who's prosecuting him.

"Lets discuss more important matters. We can put this whole mess behind us, Isabella. You won't have to testify, my client wouldn't have to testify and you can be a very rich woman."

"Are you trying to bribe me!?"

Bella looks appalled and I don't blame her.

"Such a harsh tone from such a seemingly sweet girl. We're simply negotiating."

"I'm not recanting and I'd appreciate it if you'd leave. I find your presence here very disrespectful."

"It's too bad you feel that way. I'm not leaving so soon. Has Ms. Smith made you aware of any deals?"

Bella looked at Emmett then at me.

"No." She told him.

"Bella, I didn't tell you about the deals because they were all crap. All were the same, you recant and get a big pay day but with each offer the amount of money increased. I told them I'm not dropping the charges and you're not recanting."

"You heard her, I'm not recanting!"

"Tsk tsk tsk. Ms. Smith you're a liar and a stranger to the truth just like your little friend over here."

"I'm not lying, your client raped me!" Bella defended herself.

"Ms. Adams please, the jury isn't watching so please save the dramatics for when you're on the stand."

"I don't have to take this, this is harassment. I've already told you to leave. You're a very bitter man and you can take your deals and shove it!"

I watched Bella storm off and I quickly followed behind her hoping this would be the end of all conversation between her and Emmett until the trial picks up again. I don't like feeling anxious and Emmett is really pissing me off. I can't risk Bella finding out about us.

"Even if it means you don't have to recant or testify?" I could hear the slyness in his voice.

His words stopped Bella in her tracks and she turned her head to look back at him.

"I see I have your attention."

I wanted to wipe that smug grin off of Armold's face.

"Explain." Was all Bella said.

"My client pleads guilty to misdemeanor sexual battery and the case records are sealed. Also, a little something extra on the side if you see fit. As a matter of fact, I think you should receive generous compensation but understand that you can't breathe a word about the case or the plea deal to anyone. No one can know that my client and I took a plea, this whole thing will quiet down and eventually blow over. You move far away, my client stays clear of you and we all forget about this little misunderstanding. That is, if your 'morals' don't get in the way and you feel you shouldn't be accepting compensation."

"I don't want your filthy money and I'm not going to deny what happened."

"You don't have to deny what you claim allegedly happened but you won't be able to talk about it. You don't have to confirm or deny anything, 'no comment' should suffice."

"That will still make me look guilty like I backtracked without actually wanting to say so."

I could tell Armold was growing tired of Bella.

"Alright, you can still claim he raped you if you're ever asked but you'll breathe a word of the outcome to no one. Don't even hint at a plea!"

"Watch your tone, Armold." I warned him.

"We could have already been done with this whole mess if you had told the girl about the deals. You and I both know all of them weren't about money."

"He's lying, Bella."

"Believe whatever you want Ms. Adams but do note that Ms. Smith knew about the sexual misdemeanor charge. And Ms. Smith, I'll have you know your boss reached out to us with a few deals himself.

Bella looked at the both of us and I can tell she's unsure.

"We'll talk about his lies later Bella."

"Going to put more lies and nonsense in her head?"

"We don't have to take this, lets go Bella." I wrapped an arm around Bella's shoulder but when I walked she didn't walk with me.

"What's wrong, Bella?"

I watched as she turned to Emmett.

"You said I don't have to testify?"

"That's what I said, you won't have to testify."

"And misdemeanor, that means the charge isn't really a serious one right?"

"If you want to call it that."

I watched as Emmett answered her questions and I could see she was thinking hard.

"What's misdemeanor sexual battery?" She asked me.

"In this state it's defined as unwanted sexual touching of intimate body parts without consent or through fraud. Or forcing another person to touch an intimate part of the offender's body for the same purpose. It's sexual contact that doesn't involve penetration or sodomy, Bella. Basically, what Mr. Armold wants Masters to plead to is groping you. Isn't that right Mr. Armold?"

The sly SOB only grinned.

"I'm glad you find this funny. You do realize that your client can't plead to a deal that hasn't been offered by the district attorney's office, right, a deal that isn't even on the table."

"I'm fully aware of that but who says it's not on the table, you should really keep in contact with Mr. Sears. He doesn't want to risk putting her on the stand, can you blame him?"

Emmett gestured over to where Bella was standing and I could see she was deep in thought.

"If the girl doesn't want to testify you can't make her and without her testimony your case falls apart. I won't jump the gun, you can still subpoena her but where will that get you? A distressed girl held in contempt or pushed past her breaking point on the stand, she'll look mentally unstable and you'll end up with egg on your face."

"But that won-"

Emmett stepped right in front of me-invading my personal space, his large form towering over mine and he was too close for comfort.

"Just look at her." He whispered in my ear.

Bella was oblivious to what was happening in front of her. Her eyes looked blank and empty and I could tell she was far away in her mind. This is definitely not good.

Emmett stroked my hair and I quickly stepped back.

"What are you doing, don't touch me." I slapped his hand away.

"Relax, she's in her own world far far away, I bet she calls it Bella Land."

"It's disgusting that you're making fun of her fragile emotional state."

"Interesting words coming from the prosecutor who fucked the accused's attorney while the accused was believed to be downstairs, am I right pot?"

"Our little fuckfest is over. There's no us and there won't ever be any us." I whispered harshly to him.

I walked over to Bella and gently shook her shoulders so she would come back down to earth.

"Bella, lets go. You need to rest."

"The girl hasn't made her decision yet."

"She doesn't want your ridiculous deal."

"Wait. Rosalie if you can get your boss to offer Edward that deal, how much time will he serve?"

I sighed. I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel anything from the hope and desperation in Bella's voice.

"Bella, every state has their own laws and sentencing methods. In our state, misdemeanor sexual battery would mean Masters serves one year tops, if any time at all and pays a fine that wouldn't even be 3% of what he makes every hour. We both know Masters won't be registered as a sex offender, Armold doesn't even want you to tell anyone about the deal. Masters does not bow down to anyone or accept humility in any form. His face and title will never grace a sex offender's registry even though it would be required by the court. I know you may just want a little bit of humility out of him but that's not going to happen unless we fight and fight hard."

"So nothing will happen to him, he won't go to jail?"

"I don't trust offering him such a light deal. Masters isn't going to spend a day in jail unless we make it happen. If he takes the deal how will we really know if he's in prison or not. Hypothetically speaking, if he was offered the deal and took it and by some miracle sentenced to even three months in prison and we requested to see him, the legal system and the prison would give us the runaround."

I watched Bella's face fall.

"Don't look so down Bella. Even though the trial is a closed trial you have a lot of people backing you. Women's rights groups and strangers from all over the country are backing you, they're tired of the wealthy and powerful doing as they please without repercussions. If we fight him in court and win, he won't be able to run from his punishment. Can you imagine him being found guilty and not having to take his medicine, tens of thousands of people if not more will riot! Now, what do you want to do?"

"I don't want you to plead him out if he won't go to jail."

"There you have it, Mr. Armold. You can take your deal and shove it like Bella said. We're appalled you would offer such a thing."

"Let's go Bella." I flipped my waist-length hair over my shoulder as we walked past Emmett and headed for the car.

"Well played, Ms. Smith." Emmett smirked at me.

As I pulled out of the cemetery I could still see Emmett standing there, he had a devilish look on his face that made me feel uneasy. What is he up to?

"Don't worry, Bella. We're keeping tabs on every juror's bank account and their whereabouts. We're watching Judge Bradley as well but he doesn't know it and I'm not suppose to tell you this. Masters won't be able to bribe or threaten anyone. This is a very sensitive case and we've crossed our Ts and dotted our Is. You just have to be strong, testify and tell the truth. The jurors will be able to sense you're a kindhearted person and that you're not lying. Masters will get what's coming to him and all the money in the world won't save him."

"So you guys are watching him while he watches you all watch him, I feel so safe."

The sarcasm in Bella's voice made me feel like shit. Her head was hung low and she now look depressed. In a way she probably is right, Armold knew exactly where we were.

"When it comes to hospitals, it's hard to keep things under wrap. Even though they're suppose to protect your privacy some people can't keep their mouths closed. This even happens in Hospitals that cater to the rich and famous. Employees will spill their guts if promised anonymity and a lot of cash. The world isn't always a nice, friendly place and things don't always go how they should."

"I've noticed, I learned that lesson first hand."

Bella was gazing out the window with an annoyed look on her face. Armold really put her in a bad mood.

"I hate that man almost as much as I do Edward."

Bella spit Masters' name with disgust. I'm not use to her seeming so angry but then again, I can't blame her. She has every right to be angry at the hand she's been dealt.

"That man." The hatred and disgust were clear in her tone. It makes me sad that someone so cheerful like Bella had to be tainted.

"Armold? "

"He looks down on me, I can tell. He probably thought I wasn't good enough for Edward and got what I deserved. He must think I'm just some stupid girl."

"Don't worry Bella, Armold is a jackass. He and Masters should be given a pair of designer cement shoes then be thrown in the Pacific Ocean."

"But that's not going to happen. They're powerful, they have the money and the connections. Who can even get close enough to them to kill them?"

The way Bella is talking really has me worried.

"Let's not discuss murder, not that Masters doesn't deserve it. Besides, Armold came to the cemetery alone. He's extremely wealthy but he's not exactly a famous musician or movie star to need bodyguards. But then again he is one of the bigger oil tycoons out there."

"There were two men with him."

Maybe I should take Bella back to the Hospital, sounds like she needs to rest.

"I didn't see any men, the cemetery was deserted besides the two of us and that prick."

"When you were standing in front of me with your hands on my shoulders. I looked over your shoulder and there was a man on the other side of the graveyard with white lilies in his hand."

"Maybe he was visiting a loved one who had passed."

"Then there was another man in a car parked across the street, I know they were with the attorney. I saw an earpiece fall out of the man who was holding the flowers ear. He seemed to be having trouble with it and I saw him give some kind of signal to the man parked in the car. across the street. It's just like when I was with Edward. I began to notice men conveniently placed near us when I was with him. I always noticed the same men where ever we went, well most of the time. They would rotate, I never paid attention to any of it until Alice mentioned how 'handsome' one of them were. Then it occurred to me that I had seen him before, many times while going out with Edward, not just him but the others near us looked familiar as well. Their security detail are suppose to blend into their surroundings."

"That son of a Bitch. He must have had us followed from the Hospital. He knew you were sick and in the hospital so he took the opportunity. I'm going to make it my business to find out which staff members have been blabbing."

Emmett was more than likely hoping they would follow us to where Bella is currently staying.

"What if you had taken me back to the safe house?"

"Don't worry, the DA's office has guards placed at the townhouse remember. If they had made a move you would have been protected then we would have had you moved to a new location."

Bella didn't look hopeful at all. I barely believe what I'm trying to sell to her. What if her location had been compromised and Masters had sent a dozen professional hitmen to take out the guards and her?

"Someone's going to come for me and they're going to kill me. Edward Masters doesn't lose."

I could hear defeat in her voice. She sounds like someone who's tired of fighting and doesn't care what happens.

"I won't allow that to happen. Don't be so negative, Bella. Edward isn't God, he's just a man." A very powerful man but a man all the same.

"You don't get it."

I sighed. This is my most stressful case in all of my career. This is like that drug cartel case all over again only difference is I was the one being kept in a safe house.

I drove for an hour making sure we weren't being followed then headed to the nearest store and sent Bella inside for a number of plain chocolates (I hate fruit and nuts in my chocolate), chips, pickles and honey roasted nuts.

"Just pick up everything that's crunchy, sweet and salty. Of course get whatever you like and pick up a some things for Alice. Ohh and a large tub of Häagen-Dazs salted caramel ice cream."

As soon as Bella went in the store I quickly pulled out my phone to hit up Armold.

"I knew it wouldn't be long." Came his smug greeting from the other end.

I rolled my eyes.

"How?" Was all I said.

"I told you, I have my ways."

"You had us followed from the hospital."

"I don't deny that."

"I know Masters has your firm deal with all of his legal messes from civil to criminal and that he's your closest friend. I also know that he more than likely told you to stop at nothing but Bella's an innocent girl. Would you really hand a lamb like her over to that beast to be slaughtered by him? We both know he's pissed she actually stood up to him and decided to fight. What do you think he's going to do if he finds out where she's being kept, he's going to have her killed and make it look like an accident. At least try to play fair, I know you're a better man than he is, Emmett. Why have us followed, you guys are being underhanded. All of the fighting should be done in court."

"How touching, you're concerned for the girl. All of this is just business to me. We've laid quite a few generous offers on the table, all of which you and your 'victim' have declined."

"You seem to really despise Bella, why do you hold such disdain for her?"

"I don't even know the girl, I feel nothing towards her. Like I said, this is just business for me."

"Get to know Bella, she's a very meek person. If you got to know her you wouldn't go through with helping Masters anymore."

"I hope you're not asking me to switch sides, you know I won't do that. If you're concerned because you think Edward is going to off her, don't worry. He's not going to kill the girl. He...holds affection for her. I don't know why you're having such a hard time seeing that she's being dishonest."

"Back to this again, you were feeding me bullshit the last time and you're trying to feed it to me now."

"Why would I mislead you?"

"You're close friends with Masters, why wouldn't you mislead me?"

I heard Emmett chuckle on the other end. I don't know how he could laugh at a time like this.

"I don't know if I can believe you, I don't trust you. I know you won't but I want you to tell me the truth."

"And I want you to tell me why you've been avoiding me?"

"I don't want a relationship with you. You were a good fuck and that's it."

"We both know you're lying through your teeth, I refuse to accept that."

"You should be focusing on the trial."

"Don't worry, my little spies are almost done digging up the last bit of dirt on your 'victim'. Are you nervous?"

This reminds me, I need to call Marcel tonight. He better be finished and give me whatever he has. He must be digging up a damn ancient artifact with how long he's been taking.

"I should be asking you that, the trial continues in two days. It will make my second time beating you and Masters will finally fall. I'll be going away on a vacation to celebrate."

"You promised me that I could take you away after all of this is over."

"I don't recall ever agreeing to that. How about this, when I beat you again I'll let you give me oral before I leave for somewhere tropical."

"You're pretty confident for someone who's main witness is only a few hairs away from having a mental breakdown."

"Say what you want but when I put Bella on the stand the jury will fall in love with her. Your beast of a client will taste defeat for the first time in his life."

"I like a woman who dreams big."

Cocky bastard, I can't wait to knock him off his high horse.

"Tsk tsk tsk that's quite a lot of junk food. Are you having sugar cravings, perhaps cravings for all things sweet and salty, is it that time of the month?"

I felt lost and confused then my eye caught sight of Bella in the rear-view mirror. She was pushing a cart full of delicious looking junk food that I wouldn't normally eat. I indulge sometimes but it's not really my thing.

"What are you talking about?"

"The girl bought so much junk she can barely push the cart. Let me zoom in a little closer. Hmm, häagen-dazs ice cream, cadbury chocolates, hersheys chocolates, pickles, a number of chips and cookies. Are you trying to run your sugar levels through the roof, Ms. Smith?"

I looked around in confusion, I had no clue what Emmett was talking about.

Bella came to the car with the cart and I pushed the button to unlock the doors.

"Just put everything in the backseat, Bella."

When I looked in the rearview mirror again I realized Bella bought the exact items Emmett had called off. Shit.

"How?" I asked in utter confusion, I feel completely flabbergasted.

I heard Emmett chuckle.

"I have a birds eye view, sweetheart."

I felt seriously disturbed to my very core. He's watching us? I thought for a second. Birds eye view. What does that even mean. Shit!

"You're watching us from a helicopter!?"

"No sweetheart. I'm watching you from my tablet in Nguyễn's. I have an intern watching you from a helicopter. I stopped for a steak after leaving the cemetery, you should stop by and join me."

I looked over my shoulder at Bella loading in the bags, she seemed to be in deep thought. At least she's oblivious to what's going on.

At the same time I heard a woman's voice in the background. I held the phone closer to my ear to hear better.

"Excuse me Mr. Armold, Mr. Masters has arrived and he'll be joining you shortly. He's just having a word with Mr. Delano. In the meantime would you like anything else?"

"No."

"Very well, Sir. I'll be back to take Mr. Masters' order."

"You still haven't told me what's with all the junk food, you girls having a slumber party? How long will it take you to to get the girl to her hideout... Don't tell me you're taking her back to the hospital. I'd be very disappointed, Ms. Smith."

I was once again speechless, utterly disturbed and completely flabbergasted. He has us under surveillance while he watches as he has lunch... Not to mention he's having lunch with that scoundrel. He and Masters were going to be watching us over lunch and we wouldn't have even known.

"You're a horrible son of a bitch!" I yelled then hung up the phone.

I have to get Bella back to the Hospital then come up with a plan to get her home safely without being spotted when she's released.

"What's wrong?" Bella asked me genuinely concerned.

"Nothing. It's just some guy I've been talking to lately. He's an asshole."

"Ohh. You should run at the first red flag you see."

"You're right." I knew Bella was speaking from experience. "Did you get anything you like?"

"Yeah, lots of cookies. I got a bunch of fruits too."

"That's good. Remember to take care of yourself because you have people who love you and you don't want us-them to worry."

"Okay."

"I'll take you back to the Hospital now."

Bella should be safe there with a guard keeping watch all night. I need to call the office and find a way to get her to her safehouse without being followed or to a new location if necessary. I need to report this incident but what proof would I have? I'd have to tell them about myself and Emmett.

"Alice is probably back at the hospital waiting for you."

"Yeah, knowing her she definitely is. I hope she was able to get enough rest today."

"Bella, you're back! I've missed you so much!"

"Did you get any sleep today?"

"Yep, I went home and took two Advil pm pills and slept like a baby. I feel much better!"

"I can tell. You paired your clothes right this time."

Watching Bella and Alice was giving me a toothache. It's good to see them so happy but it's just so sickeningly sweet to watch.

"So where did you two go?" Alice asked Bella.

"Nowhere special. I brought you back your favorite snacks."

The nurse who was assigned to Bella walked in and informed us that Bella needed to be hooked up to an IV among a few other things but it was just routine.

"I don't like seeing you in here Belly."

"Don't worry, I feel fine and I get to come home tomorrow. If you stop sulking I'll let you dress me up in all of your fancy clothes for the sake of fun."

I watched Alice's eyes glisten in great joy. Her obsession with clothing and fashion is a bit comical.

I turned to look out of the window in Bella's hospital suite and it was already dark outside. Guess I'll be taking my leave.

"So, have you made your decision about testifying, did you get anything thinking done today. I don't want to stress you, it's okay if you haven't." I heard Alice ask Bella.

I stopped myself from turning around and continued to look out of the window. I'm eager to hear her answer but I don't want them to know that.

"It's fine. I thought about everything earlier and I know what I want to do."

I'm happy Alice decided to spend the night with Bella so I didn't have to think of a lie about why I can't take her home. Masters' goons spotted my car leaving the hospital earlier and more than likely saw Bella in the passenger seat and followed us. I doubt Alice was followed but I'm going to request a different location to house them at anyway.

As I made my way home I decided to call Marcel.

"Hello?" Came his suave voice from the other end.

"I don't care if you're not finished, send whatever you have to my email address now! Trial resumes in two days and I need to get to work!"

I promptly hung up and dialed Mr. Sears. What the hell did Emmett mean by my boss offered him deals?

"I apologize Sir for calling so late but I've had a busy day. Are you free tomorrow to go over our strategy?"

"I've been trying to get in touch with you for almost week! What have you been doing!?"

"I'm sorry Sir but I've been busy."

"Busy!? Your behavior is a disgrace, are you sure you want to advance in this field someday, it's clear you don't value your job or take it seriously! You decided to fight for this matter to go trial but when its time to come in to the office to go over the info we've received and our plans for court, you're MIA! You call me this late at night when the trial is less than forty-eight hours away, you do realize this don't you!?"

"I am so very deeply sor-"

"I don't want to hear it! Be in my office first thing tomorrow morning at 10am!"

I don't know what's his problem. I have this in the bag.

"Sir before you hang up I believe Isabella Adams needs to be moved to a new location. I fear for her safety."

"There haven't been any troubling reports from any of the guards placed at her Hospital room. The detectives assigned to watch her haven't reported any cause for concern, her security detail and location aren't compromised. Her well-being is not in jeopardy which I have to say is surprising considering it's Edward Masters she's accused of assaulting her. Do you know how much it's been costing tax-payers for her upscale living space, food, electric bills and security detail?"

"Sir, we were followed earlier. I took Bell-Ms. Adams from her hospital suite to visit her parents graves. There were two men in the graveyard who were watching us. They followed us in two separate vehicles but I was able to lose them and transport her back to the hospital safely. I strongly believe they were sent by Edward Masters, it's not surprising that he would try something. Ms. Adams currently under the protection of her security detail."

I can't just come out and tell Mr. Sears that Emmett Armold's security detail were the ones following us.

"You took her out without any form of protection, what was her detail doing that he wasn't able to keep an eye on her?! You do know without Ms. Adam's testimony our entire case will fall apart, I'm already taking a chance with my life and risking my family's safety by prosecuting this darn tycoon. For you to act so reckless is-"

"I'm sorry to interrupt you Sir but with all due respect, isn't serving justice why you became a D.A. in the first place. We shouldn't have to pick which cases we will prosecute and which ones we won't based on our chances of winning. Why do we have to let some billionaire slide just because of who he is, he's not above the law! I'm sorry but the only reason you probably agreed to go along with this is because if we're successful it will be the highlight of your career, not to mention it would be a great benefit because of Masters' illegal business dealings as well. If we just let him walk it will set a precedent that if you're a wealthy, powerful individual you won't be charged for your crimes. We both know he's guilty and I won't rest until I have my day with him in Court!"

I heard a sigh from the other end of the line.

"You're young and naive, you don't understand how the world works."

"I'd rather not live in a world like this if the wealthy and powerful can get away with whatever they want. I'm going to fight to change that!"

"I'll make new provisions for Ms. Adams. Be in my office tomorrow morning at 10am!"

"Thank you, Sir."

That didn't go as bad as I thought it would.

As I pulled up to my place I began thinking about earlier. Edward Masters isn't one to leave things up to chance, no. He has a plan, I just wish I knew what it is. I really thought he would have made an attempt on Bella's life by now but he hasn't. I pushed the button for the gates to open and drove in.

The men in the graveyard today had a chance to take Bella out. I guess Masters and Emmett doesn't want it to be so obvious, if she had been shot everyone would've known where to point their fingers even if they couldn't prove it.

Maybe she was safe because she was with me, Emmett wouldn't want me being a witness to something like that cause it would mean I'd be a liability to Masters, then he'd have to go against Masters to protect me.

Or is Masters simply trying to find the perfect way to take Bella out?

I pondered and tried to make sense of everything as I grabbed my snacks from the backseat.

One things for sure, I have to find a way to sneak Bella out of the hospital without being followed from above. We need something inconspicuous...something too conspicuous. I'll have security hash out the details.

If I had told Bella about the helicopter earlier I know she would've freaked. I didn't see it nor did I hear anything but it was there. Why did Emmett reveal to me that he was having us followed, he didn't have to but he did. That's too stupid on his part so I'm going to assume he wanted me to know...but why? I wish I only knew what Masters and Emmett are planning.

A shiver suddenly ran up my back and before I knew it I felt someone snatch me by my hair and threw me against my car, hard. My body hit the car with a loud thud and pain instantly shot through me. Before I could figure out what was going on, I was being squished up against the car and a pair of lips were on mine. I feel like I'm about to black out...

*SNEAK PEEK!*

Bella POV

During the present...

"What are you doing in here?!"

He didn't say anything, he just stepped toward me menacingly. I felt my chest tighten, I began stepping back hoping that he wouldn't get too close. How did Edward even get in here?

"Why are you doing this?" He asked me. His tone was emotionless and cold.

I felt my back hit the wall, there's nowhere for me to run.

"You're not suppose to have any contact with me!"

"Why are you doing this?" He repeated, his voice still void of all emotion.

"You have the nerve to ask me that when you hurt me the way you did!?"

*SNEAK PEEK ENDS*