We're in the final stretch leading up to the election, and then we'll be in the back half of the story. Thank you for all the support of the last chapter, it meant the world to me. Enjoy and I'll catch you in two weeks.
To answer a question that was posed. Codenames for families are usually starting with the same letter, but don't have to be, or within a theme. For their administration, Harry started it with the mythological creatures, so Bella is continuing that. Even Emmett and Henry's codename are mythic. For them the meaning is more important than the letter it starts with. Hope that clears it up.
Chapter 21The evening news in New York always had a particular focus on the ceremonies for the anniversary of September 11th, but Bella wasn't used to being the focus of them.
"It was well received, Bella. Breathe." Alice's voice came through the receiver.
"Shouldn't you be relaxing?" Edward asked, concerned.
"Edward, I'm essentially Bubble Boy. Everything I have in this room has been cleared and I'm not doing any real work. This is just conferring with my friend."
There was a knock on the door. A moment later, Garrett walked in with their food cart. He pushed it into the dining room and entered the larger sitting room only to hear his girlfriend's voice through the phone.
"Pix, I thought we talked about your project while you're in there."
"Listen, Elfie, I'm working on it, okay?"
"And how is that coming along?" Garrett asked.
"You'll see when you check your personal phone. I sent you three listings, but you'll know which one is my favorite immediately."
"I'll look at them and do some checks."
"I already vetted out the ones I knew would give you a heart attack. Please be gentle with the rest."
"I just brought in dinner for Bella and Edward, so I'll let them say goodbye and we'll talk tonight."
"Be safe, My Love."
"Always am." Garrett turned to the future first couple and smirked. "I'm off now, so I'm going to get ready for tomorrow. The Clearwaters are coming here, right?"
"Yes. Bella thought it was better to be safe than turn it into a photo op. They'll be spotted as soon as they come to the hotel," Edward confirmed.
"Well, we'll be ready for their arrival. And you three have the fundraiser tomorrow evening?"
"And then on the thirteenth we're not working at all."
"Yes, and all your plans for that day are set in place."
"What are you two going on about?" Bella asked, her attention no longer on her phone.
"Covert ops, just like I helped you with back in June."
"Calling them covert instead of secret doesn't make me hate them any less."
Garrett chuckled. "I've never met a person more averse to being surprised."
Bella stood. "Garrett, when most of the surprises you got in life weren't happy ones, you tend to be averse to the unknown." She watched as Garrett blanched and sighed to herself. "I'm sorry. I don't mean to be shitty with you, but big surprises are always going to be the bane of my existence. Edward knows what I can handle and operates within that. Now, go look at houses, Thranduil."
"You two talk entirely too much about things that are meant to stay private," Garrett grumbled.
"Garrett, you've heard at least half of the orgasms I've had since 2023, and you're in a serious relationship with my best friend and Chief of Staff. There is no 'private' with us anymore."
Edward choked on the sip of water he'd just taken and coughed as he walked into the dining room. "I'm going to see to dinner. Garrett, I'd suggest you run while you can."
"See you in the morning, Ma'am," Garrett said in a hushed voice.
"Bye, Gar."
Bella joined Edward in the dining room just as he uncovered their meals. "I don't know who was more shocked by that statement, you or Garrett."
"Definitely him. I'm always hyperaware of where everyone is when we are together. I just wasn't expecting you to be so blunt."
Bella shrugged. "I grew up in New York; we're known for our bluntness."
"Yes, but you've definitely dulled one edge of that sword to make it as far as you have in politics."
"All right, let's stop thinking about who's heard us until we have a reason to later."
With a smirk at her implication, they tabled that discussion so they could eat. It wasn't until hours later that the two agents in the stairwell were the latest witness to their enthusiastic love-making.
The following morning was busy for Edward and Bella as they worked on some projects until Leah and Sue arrived. Seth was in school, so they wouldn't see him this time, but he was excited about the fact that he'd been invited to the wedding. Since he wasn't in the wedding party, he'd been worried he'd be too little to attend.
The moment Sue and Leah walked in was filled with enthusiastic hugs and congratulations.
"Sue and Leah, come with me. I have some samples of the bridesmaid dress options so you can pick your favorite and we can send that information along with your measurements. The seamstress will take it from there."
Teeny joined them and began with the measurements so they'd have them when it was time. There were five dress options that had been cleared. Alice and Virna had picked their own styles, so it was time for Leah to find a dress she was comfortable with.
The first was a halter top with a ruched layer. It was pretty in orchid, but Bella could tell Leah was not a fan. The next two were quickly vetoed. The fourth dress was beautiful except for the height of the slit. It could be fixed, but it ruined the moment.
"If we don't like the next one, we can have more dresses sent up," Bella told Leah to remove the pressure on the next dress.
The fifth dress was a one shoulder ruched dress with the fabric belting it right at Leah's waist. From the moment she saw her reflection, they all knew she'd found her dress.
"Thank you for letting me stand up for you and Edward. I hate why we've grown closer, but I think my dad would be proud."
"He'd absolutely love it."
"And I love it too," Sue added. "I couldn't think of a better person for Leah to learn from. Both personally and professionally."
With the business for the wedding done, they settled in to catch up. They joked around and chatted about places around the city that Bella had known back in the day, and new places the Clearwaters had found since moving there.
The time came for them to part ways, since Sue had to get ready for the charity event that night.
Bella's dress was a light pink and navy, split almost like a yin and yang sign, with the fabric knotted, leading to the belt that wrapped the opposite colors around her waist. Edward was wearing a navy suit, with a pink pocket square to tie in with her dress.
Security was tight as they arrived at the hotel ballroom. The International Rescue Committee had them at a table near the front with Carlisle, Esme, and Emmett. It was a popular table for schmoozing during the cocktail hour, with the security details hard at work keeping people from crowding the table before it was their time.
"This feels like the old days," Sue commented as the crowd thinned when dinner began.
Esme reached for Sue's hand as she spoke. "It does. We've missed you in Washington."
"I miss you all, but the children are able to have somewhat normal lives, and that's a blessing in all of this."
The meal gave way to speeches, Carlisle giving the Administration's words of praise before the dancing began.
As the band started, Edward stood and moved to Isabella's left side, his hand outstretched. "May I have this dance?"
"Yes."
Hand in hand, Edward led her to the dance floor and pulled her close, beginning to waltz with her. "Today was a success."
"Yes, it was. And I'm glad that at the end of the day, I'll be able to spend it with you."
"Tomorrow is a free day. I made sure of it."
"I'll need it. We have a week of campaigning in the Northeast after tomorrow, then home for a few days, and back out to the Midwest."
"And only fifty-six days left until we know the results of all this hard work."
"It's hard to believe we're that close."
"May I cut in?" Emmett asked.
"Sure. Just promise to take good care of my girl," Edward told him with a smack to his back.
Edward took over dancing with Esme while Carlisle and Sue shared a dance.
"Can I ask you a question out here, or should I wait until we're in private?" Emmett asked Bella.
"Here is fine. We won't be overheard."
"Are you concerned about what happens when we win?"
"Feeling that confident, are you?"
"Caius is ranting about the poll data being slanted, but I believe we'll win."
"And that makes you nervous because …"
Emmett sighed and spun Isabella out and back before he continued. "The latest intel."
"They're quiet because the people behind these attacks believe John Caius will be the next president."
"Yes."
Bella offered a sad smile. "I can't live in fear of what might happen. I have to go out every day and do the job I swore to do. Is the lack of information frustrating? Absolutely. But the FBI also have so many tips to sort through. They have credible information, but nothing to compare it to, unfortunately. Technology isn't on our side in this case. But I have big plans for the next term, and I'm going to need a VP who is ready to fight with me."
"Oh, I'm ready to fight. But I'm also scared for you. You've become a great friend this past year, and I don't like some of the things out there about you."
"There will always be people who are focused more on my genitalia than my policy, but it won't stop me, and it shouldn't stop you either."
After the conversation ended, Carlisle took his spin on the floor with Bella. Much like the night that had changed her life, they joked and glided across the floor before they returned to the table. There was more dancing and laughing, and a few high-ranking members among the attendees were able to get a dance with the president before she and Edward called it a night.
It was just after midnight when they arrived back at the suite. The table in the sitting room they'd been using most held some gifts.
"You shouldn't have," Bella whispered.
"I didn't. Those are from Sue and the kids, Esme and Carlisle, Emmett, and I believe one from Alice is in there as well."
"There's also one from Rosalie Hale," Samuel informed them.
Bella nodded and turned to Samuel. "We're in for the night. How much privacy could we safely get?"
"Agents are in the stairwell, midway between here and the floor below. There's also a plain-clothed agent in the elevator. If you need anything, call the secure line and we'll make sure a secured elevator is sent up for you. Other than that, we won't bother you unless necessary until meal times."
"Thank you, Sam," Edward told him.
"Have a good night, Ma'am, Sir."
They watched as the other agents got in the elevator and the door closed, leaving them alone.
Bella went to the table and started opening gifts. There were two envelopes, so Bella started with those. The first was from Carlisle and Esme and it was a picture of a large basket filled with "self care" items for her waiting at the White House. The card from Rosalie showed a few pictures as well. The first three were scratch-off posters, one for the "Top 100 Movies," the second for all the baseball stadiums, and the last for all the US National Parks. The other item was a picture map where there were stickers for each state. The card had a handwritten note on it.
Bella,
I thought it would be nice to start thinking about all the things you can do once all the stress is behind you. The places you and Edward can visit and a way to unwind in the meantime. And don't worry about the stickers. I ordered two sets of the blank state stickers and you can print your own with the included photo printer.
Here's to many more years of exploring together and seeing the world, both officially, and once you're a private citizen again, hopefully in eight years' time.
Love,
Rosalie
Bella handed the card to Edward while she reached for the larger package. Tearing the paper off it, she couldn't help but laugh. It was one of those cat portraits with Donut done up as royalty. Edward looked over her shoulder and smirked at it.
"I'm sure Henry helped with the selection. And this was very sweet of Rosalie to do."
"It was. I'm glad she and I have grown closer in the last few months."
"Me too."
Bella yawned and he led her away from the table with the gifts. "Bedtime, Madam President."
Bella relented and allowed Edward to take her to their bedroom. They stripped out of their formalwear and slipped into their pajamas. It didn't take long for Isabella to fall into a sound sleep.
The following morning, Bella was surprised to wake up to an empty bed. She'd been hoping to get a special birthday wakeup from her fiancé. But she could hear the soft grunts coming from the far sitting room, and wandered down the hall to find him getting his morning workout in while he thought she was still sleeping.
His basketball shorts sat low on his hips, showcasing the dip at his waist as he faced the windows. He was shirtless, which gave Bella a perfect view of his back muscles working as he did overhead tricep extensions.
When Edward bent over to set the weight down, a soft sigh escaped her lips, which caused him to turn around.
"Good morning, beautiful. Happy birthday."
"It could have been a much better morning and happier birthday if you had used all of that to wake me up."
Edward looked around in amusement. "All of this?"
"Yes. You're standing here all sexy and sweaty and flexing your back muscles. It is ridiculous how easily you turn me on."
Edward stalked over to where Isabella sat and dropped to his knees. "Let's see exactly how well I can take care of it."
He kissed up the inside of her right thigh from her knee to her center as his hands glided up the outside. She knew he was going to tear her panties as soon as his fingers slid under the material. Only a second later, she was bare and his face was buried where she needed him most. Her legs were hitched over his shoulders as he licked, sucked, and nibbled at her sensitive flesh. It could be embarrassing how quickly he made her climax, if he wasn't so talented and she wasn't so horny.
Edward pulled back and with a smirk on his face. "Was that a better way to start the day? Or should I keep going?"
"Take me to bed, Edward."
Edward picked up Bella and slung her over his shoulder, giving her an up-close view of the back she'd been drooling over when she first woke up. The passion in their lovemaking was loud and deliberate. Every thrust and kiss brought them closer and Bella cried out with her second climax of the morning as Edward followed right behind her.
They showered together and dressed casually for the first part of the day while Edward let one of his agents in when they arrived with breakfast. It was a relaxing morning. They shared breakfast, then they moved to the living area to relax.
"There are more false leads than good ones in these investigations," Bella commented.
"Yes, and the bomb had a signature from what they could tell, but it wasn't something they've seen before."
"That means whoever this is, they're new to the game," Bella mused.
"It doesn't make them any less dangerous. And I tend to agree that this is politically motivated. But there are too many fringe groups out there. Could it be some small group using the Fathers of the Republic as a shield? Or have they truly radicalized that far?" Edward wondered.
"The scary thing is, it might take their next attempt before we learn enough to get anyone."
Edward stood and crossed the room to Bella, taking her face in his hands. "If the authorities are doing their job, these nutcases won't get the opportunity."
Bella reached up and placed both her hands on Edward's wrists. "You were doing your job when the last one happened. It isn't because the agents aren't doing their jobs. When people are this driven, they will keep trying. We need them to make a mistake before anything serious happens, but we may not be that lucky."
"How can you be so casual about this?" Edward pleaded.
"I've suffered immense loss, Edward. I know that tomorrow isn't promised, but I will live the hell out of every second I have, and I'm so happy to spend that time with you."
Their lips crashed together and soon they were once again carried away with one another.
Later that afternoon, Edward handed Bella a package that was clearly a book. "I wish I could take you to a Broadway show, but the security around that would be a nightmare at the moment. I was able to get you this, though."
Bella tore the paper to reveal a deep green leather-bound copy of Wicked. The gold details and signature on the inside let Bella know just how hard he'd looked for this. "This is almost a decade old, and very hard to find. Thank you, I love it."
"It's one of your favorite books as well as a favorite musical of yours. It was a little tricky, but I made it happen."
"After the election, we should start inviting more artists to the White House. Harry managed to do it, and I thoroughly enjoyed the performances."
"Something to add to Dawn's plate once the wedding is done," Edward encouraged.
"Yeah," she agreed.
"I have a surprise for dinner. It may not be Broadway, but it is a touch theatrical."
"Oh yeah?"
"There's a gray garment bag with my clothes in the closet. We'll have to leave in ninety minutes, and I expect Teeny to be here any minute."
"We need to find you someone to fill that role, Athenodora is the reason I'm on the ball as much as I am."
"I know." Edward chuckled. "She's here so frequently there are times I don't notice her, but I know she's been here."
A knock sounded in the foyer of the suite and Agent Harper's voice rang out. "Madam, Sir, Miss Athenodora is here, but we've been instructed to restrict your visitors."
"She's fine, Agent Harper. It seems I've got a lot to prepare for this evening."
Teeny popped her head into the living room and smiled. "I'll be in the bathroom, setting everything up. Did you need a few minutes in there, Edward?"
"No. I moved my toiletries into one of the other bathrooms earlier, so you'll be all set." With a kiss to the corner of Bella's mouth, Edward stood and made his way to one of the smaller bedrooms to make use of its bathroom.
"Thank you, Teeny. This is all far beyond your job description," Bella told her.
"No, it isn't. I'm your personal aide. I'm in charge of your schedule, your dry cleaning, and since I enjoy it, your hair and makeup for special occasions."
"And I could never do any of this without you."
Bella showered and changed into the black lacy underwear that Teeny had set out for her. "Do you know where he's taking me tonight?"
"I don't know the specifics. I only know what he asked me to find as far as the dress goes. And you'll love it."
Once her hair was in a classic updo and her makeup applied, it was time for Bella to see her dress. The zipper flew down in her excitement, revealing a red and black 1920s style floor-length dress. Black tulle gathered in the front, back, and sides of the skirt. It had sheer black cap sleeves, while intricate black beading in lines and diamond patterns added to the overall effect. A pair of black heels, a black beaded hair comb, and clutch and she's ready to go.
Teeny snapped a few candid shots on Bella's personal phone, and confirmed that some photos would be taken for social media, to be posted well after they were safely back at the hotel for the night.
It was an odd thing for Bella, the frequency with which she had to use social media as a tool to show her softer side as much as her professional work. But it was all part of the job.
She entered the living room and was stunned by what she saw. Edward looked every bit the part of a 1920s man about town, or maybe something a little darker. He wore black and silver pinstripe vest and pants with a crisp white shirt, the sleeves pushed up to make it look a little more casual. The black tie and chain slipped into his vest pocket completed the look. And what a look.
"Are you sure we have to go out?" Isabella pouted.
"I worked hard for this reservation. And I think you'll enjoy the meal."
"I know, but you look so good right now, I'd like to enjoy this little outfit."
Edward growled, "We will, later."
With a smirk, Isabella took his arm. The drive downtown was quick, and Isabella was confused when they pulled up to the back of a building.
"I'm confused. This doesn't look like a staff entrance," she remarked.
"It isn't." He led her from the car and the door was opened as soon as he knocked.
A long hallway stretched out in front of them as a man dressed in similar attire led them through the door to what Bella now understood was a speakeasy.
"How did you find this?"
"When I was researching, I found that this is the first distillery in the city since Prohibition and it gave me the idea. Then I saw the speakeasy and knew the agents could work with this."
"Madam President, Sir, my name is Thomas, and I'll be your server tonight. My boss wanted me to inform you that he has complied with every instruction given to him by the Secret Service to ensure your safety and comfort. If you'd like to have a seat, I can go over our menu and answer any questions you have."
Thomas was thoughtful and thorough as he went over drink selections, the menu, and took their orders. The local burrata and NY State maple-braised bacon were a fabulous start to the meal. The couple shared the two, barely noticing the quiet snaps from Teeny's phone before she began to eat her own meal.
The main courses of Long Island duck breast and seared yellowfin tuna were equally delicious, as were the drinks they sipped throughout. It didn't escape Isabella's notice that Thomas poured a small bit of everything he made for them and tasted it before pouring their drinks to serve, but he didn't seem bothered in the slightest.
Edward told Thomas they had other plans for dessert and he made his one request of the evening to the couple. "I'm aware of the restrictions I would be under, but would it be possible to get a picture with you both? Tonight has been an honor, and I would like to have something other than the story to share."
"Of course," Isabella answered. "If you don't mind us taking one for ourselves."
Teeny took the pair of pictures and then Edward slipped some cash into his hand. "Thank you for everything. This should cover the bill and your stellar service."
They were quickly whisked away to their hotel, and before Bella could get too carried away, Edward led her back into the living room. "What could be so important that we'd forgo what we've been building up all night?"
"There was a reason that we didn't have dessert at the restaurant. We couldn't be in New York City for your birthday and not have your favorite dessert."
Bella gasped at the slice of raspberry cheesecake from Junior's sitting on a plate from the kitchen. A single candle was sitting there lit as Teeny took a picture.
"Make a wish, Ma'am, and then I'll be out of your hair for the night."
Bella closed her eyes and blew out the solitary candle, Edward sitting right at her side. She opened her eyes and met his gaze. "I hope you got a slice for yourself, because I will not be sharing."
"I wouldn't dream of it."
Bella faintly heard the sound of Teeny's heels as she left, and the elevator sliding shut when she took her first bite, a single thought in her mind.
Thirty-nine would be a very good year.