Thank you to my awesome pre-reader and friend PurpleC305 and to Ninkita, my beta extraordinaire.
Disclaimer: The author does not own any publicly recognizable characters herein. No copyright infringement is intended.
"You don't have to believe me and, to be honest, I don't care. I don't like you, Edward, but you already know that."
Jacob Black was standing face to face with the one person he hated the most. Maybe hate was too strong of a word but it came close to how he felt about Edward Cullen. "I'm just so pissed that you don't believe Bella. She's the sweetest and kindest person I know and if she were mine…"
His best friend, Bella Swan, had been infatuated with Edward from the moment he moved to Forks but he had hoped — for her sake and not his — that it never came to the moment these two came together.
Edward was cocky and self-centred, and very popular with the female population. They thought the sun rose and set on Edward. Almost daily, whenever Jacob walked the halls, he heard or saw female students swoon over Cullen. It was pathetic.
Actually, that wasn't the worst part either. What irked Jacob was Edward's jealousy when it came to his friendship with Bella.
With a sharp laugh Edward interrupted Jacob's little speech. "Cut the crap, Black," he told the six foot five giant standing in front of him. "I know exactly how much you wish she was yours. Do you think I'm stupid? That I don't hear all the talk about you and Bella?"
From the outside, Edward was fuming but on the inside his heart was breaking. Granted, he had been dating Bella Swan for only three months but he had fallen for her fast and hard. Everything that Jacob said about Bella was only a fraction of the reasons why Edward was with her. He had never been a jealous guy, until he started dating her.
He knew that his girlfriend and Jacob had been best friends since they were little and that he was the one she went to when she needed to vent or ease her soul. She didn't really have close friends except for Jacob and he was the only one she knew she could confide in. That didn't make Edward feel better though.
He wanted to be the one she ran to if she was upset or even if she was happy.
They were different in personality, Bella and Edward. Where she was sweet and naive, he had a temper and even though he wasn't usually the type of person to instantly believe everything he heard, he was still not ready to ignore the rumors that circled the hallways of Forks High School.
Not even the fact that Jacob was dating Tanya Robertson, the cheerleading captain, was reason enough for him to see with his own eyes what this really was; nothing but harmless interactions between two best friends.
The truth was, deep down Edward knew, but he was an insecure asshole and this feeling was new to him. He had always been so sure about everything he did in life, about everything he felt. But everything had changed with Bella. He had never felt like this before - the need to be needed.
The main catalyst to Edward's irrational thoughts and temper tantrum, though, was Bella's indifference toward him.
It wasn't that she wasn't attentive... But only when they were alone. In public was another story. The only thing she was comfortable with was holding hands. There was nothing wrong with that. Not everyone was a fan of openly showing affection. What made him mad was that she didn't push Jacob's arm away when he put it around her shoulders. Only when he ruffled her hair, which she hated, would she shove him away.
Jealousy, he would learn, was a dangerous emotion.
"And you believe everything these stupid and jealous brats tell you? Then you're a bigger moron than I thought. Maybe it would be better if Bella dumped you. She deserves better."
Edward knew that Jacob was only looking out for her, but that right there was why Edward had problems with their friendship. Jacob had had the privilege of being her protector for a long time. Edward figured that as Bella's boyfriend, it was now his duty to be the one to protect her.
But in a few seconds, the equilibrium would shift again.
ooo
Bella and Tanya had just left the school's bathroom when they heard Jacob and Edward arguing. It wasn't the first time they had fought because of her. She was sick of their constant confrontations, but mostly she was tired of Edward's lack of trust in her. She didn't know how many times she had to tell him that there was nothing between her and her best friend before he finally believed her.
Thoughts of breaking up with him had passed more times through her mind than she would have liked, but she just couldn't make herself do it. She liked Edward despite his unfounded jealousy. Deep down she felt like she did more than like him, but it had been only three months since they started dating… too soon for these feelings to be possible, and above all, real. The crush she had on him had existed way longer though. It came as a surprise, a nice one of course, when out of the blue he had asked her out while they were working on a biology assignment in the library.
"These two, I swear," Tanya sighed. "Can't they be civil for just one day?" She rolled her eyes and Bella chuckled at her friend's annoyance.
"I know, right? It's getting old," Bella joked. They linked arms and like the seventeen year olds they were, marched up - heads held high and smiles on their faces - to their clueless boyfriends to once and for all make an end to their ridiculous and senseless feud.
Edward was standing with his back to the girls, clueless to their arrival. He was in Jacob's face, his hands balled into fists at his side and his eyes blazing with fury. "First of all, you don't get to say what Bella does or doesn't deserve," he almost yelled. Jacob wasn't intimidated by Edward, he smirked at him, which made Edward even angrier. And in this anger he said something he'd regret for as long as he lived.
Edward stepped back, the muscles in his tense body loosening gradually. His expression was so nonchalant that he was surprised he was able to pull this off in the first place. He didn't think, the words just burst out of him. "You know what, Jacob? You can have her. She…"
The sharp gasp behind him would reverberate and torment him in his sleep for a long time.
Ten years later
Bella was balancing a birthday cake in one hand and in the other, she held a blue wrapped rectangular gift with a big white bow.
She contemplated if she should knock on her friends' and neighbors' door with her forehead or foot. The different images made her giggle and shake her head.
"What's so funny, Miss Swan?" came a familiar, amused voice behind her. She hadn't even heard someone coming up the stairs.
She turned around and smiled at the giant in front of her. The sudden move caused her to almost drop the cake, but Emmett McCarty saved the day by taking it from her, smiling and showing his cute dimples.
"Hey, Emmett," she greeted him with a kiss on the cheek. "How have you been?"
"Good, and you? How's business going?" He lifted the box with the cake for emphasis.
"It's going great, thanks to Alice."
Ever since Bella first started her baking business, her friend and Emmett's cousin Alice Whitlock, a fashion designer and exclusive boutique owner, would order mini pastries for her shop. Alice loved Bella's products and she was sure her clients would too. Soon Bella was busy with orders for birthdays, anniversaries and other celebrations.
"I'm happy for you, gorgeous," Emmett said and Bella's heart fluttered at his nickname for her.
They had been dancing around each other for a while but neither of them dared to make the first move. It wasn't because of lack of attraction - that was present in heaps - but more because they were both friends and family with the Whitlocks. What if the thing between them didn't work out? There would be awkward get-togethers in the future that neither of them wanted to be blamed for.
Finally Bella knocked on her neighbors' door and seconds later a small woman with short black hair opened the door. "Oh, you're both here. That's great. Come on inside."
"Happy birthday, Alice." Bella hugged her friend and gave her the gift.
"You didn't have to do that, B," Alice said but took the present with a wide smile.
Bella took the cake from Emmett so he could greet his cousin freely. "I'll just put that in the fridge," she said and left for the kitchen.
Minutes later, after breezing in and out of the kitchen to bring the guys each a beer, Alice joined Bella who had already started to arrange the cold cuts on platters.
"Thanks for the cake, by the way," Alice said. "It looks delicious. And the picture frame is gorgeous. Tanya is really talented. How are they anyway?" Alice was referring to Jake and Tanya, Bella's childhood best friend and his wife, who had moved to California a few years ago.
"They're really great. Tanya is pregnant again," Bella informed Alice with a huge smile on her face thinking about how their three year old daughter Leah was going to be a big sister soon.
"Aw, that's sweet. Tell them I said hi the next time you guys talk."
"Will do," Bella promised. "Is Jasper ready for the new school year?" Alice's eyes widened at Bella's question.
"I totally forgot to tell you! Two days ago Jasper was at school, to get the classroom ready, you know?" Bella nodded, wondering where Alice was going with this. "Anyway, he walks the hallway and who does he bump into? His old college roommate. I don't think I ever told you about him."
"Not that I remember," Bella admitted.
"Who are you ladies talking about?" Alice's husband was standing at the kitchen entrance. He was the exact opposite of his wife; tall with curly, chin-length blond hair.
"Your college roommate. What was his name?" Alice asked and handed him two plates to bring into the dining room.
"Edward Cullen," Jasper said, but Bella wasn't listening anymore. She turned around and put her hands on the counter to steady herself. She breathed in and out, his name a constant loop in her mind. That couldn't be, could it? "I think he's from Forks, just like you, Bella," Jasper added but all Bella could do was nod and try not to hyperventilate.
"Is everything ok, B?" Alice asked, concerned. She immediately noticed that something was off with her friend. "We're alone now. Come on." Alice led her friend to a barstool at the kitchen island. She brought her a glass of water and Bella emptied it in two gulps.
"Better now?" Bella nodded even though she wasn't really sure. "What's going on, sweetie?" Alice asked softly. "Do you know Edward?"
Bella chuckled darkly and shook her head in disbelief. She hadn't heard the name for ages and she didn't think she'd have such a stupid reaction to hearing it. "Do you remember the one time I told you about my high school boyfriend?"
"Yes, I remember," Alice said but not yet putting the puzzle pieces together. "The one who told Jacob he could…" Suddenly it dawned on Alice that they were talking about the same person. "Shit!" Alice exclaimed, her hand over her mouth.
"Shit is right," Bella said.
"No, I mean, shit, he's coming here. And he's bringing someone." Alice watched Bella jump from the stool and look for an exit.
"I can't be here, Alice." Bella walked nervously up and down the kitchen but Alice stopped her.
"What do you mean, you can't be here? You're not leaving."
"Who's leaving?" Emmett asked as he sauntered into the kitchen for another beer.
"I'm leaving." "No one's leaving." Bella and Alice said at the same time. Emmett looked between the two women, clearly confused.
"Why do you want to leave, Bella?" Emmett was by her side in two steps, a concerned expression on his face. "Are you sick or something?"
"Or something," Bella muttered.
"Someone's coming over, she's not keen to see," Alice explained carefully. Or not so carefully since Bella was scowling at her.
"Aw, B," Emmett cooed and put an arm around her shoulder. "Don't you worry, gorgeous, I'll protect you." He gave her a toothy smile which made Bella finally laugh. Even though he had no idea why Bella was so anxious, she knew he meant it and surprisingly it made her feel better.
"I'm counting on it, Emmett."
"There you go," Alice said and at that exact moment there was a knock on the door. With one last look at Bella and Emmett, who winked at her, she joined Jasper to welcome his friend.
"Whatever it is, B, I got your back," Emmett reassured the beautiful woman next to him and squeezed her shoulder.
"Thank you," Bella said with a smile. She couldn't explain why all of a sudden and after so many years, his name was evoking pain and feelings of inadequacy inside her.
"Are you ready?" Emmett asked patiently, looking at her nervous face.
"As I'll ever be," Bella replied before she followed Emmett with her hand in his.
ooo
Edward was outside Rose's apartment complex, waiting for his cousin to come downstairs. It had been twenty minutes since he texted her and she had assured him it would take her only five minutes to join him. He should have known better. Women and their need to look, what they called, presentable. There was nothing wrong with that, but Edward just couldn't understand why women needed that much time for makeup. Put that shit on your face and let's go, he thought.
He should have gotten used to it by now. His ex, Kate, always needed at least two hours for showering, makeup and dressing up.
Even the girls in high school were obsessed with painting their faces. Except for Bella. Her skin was flawless, beautiful. It didn't need the goop the others preferred.
Everytime he thought of her it was like a punch to the gut. It had been ten years since the fateful day Jacob Black marked him with a black eye (which Edward undoubtedly deserved) and Bella decided to give him the cold shoulder for the rest of senior year. He never saw her again after graduation but the guilt and loss of the person he truly adored stayed with him to this day.
The click of the passenger door opening brought him back to the present. "Finally," Edward sighed which earned him a glare from the blonde beauty next to him.
"Shut up, Edward. I'm doing this for you, remember," she reminded him but then her gaze softened. "I know you don't like to be the fifth wheel. And besides, I'm ready to meet people. Haven't done that since moving from Chicago last month."
Edward smiled at his cousin. "Thanks, Rose. I owe you."
"Nah," she said, waving her hand around dismissively. "Tell me about your friend."
While they were driving to the address Jasper had given Edward, he told Rose about his college roommate at NYU. While Edward stayed in New York after graduating, Jasper got a job offer in Seattle. He met Alice Brandon and after dating for a year they got married. Edward had found out all this information when they met at the high school a couple of days ago. It was a very unexpected but great surprise seeing Jasper again.
"How cool is it that you guys are going to teach at the same school," Rose said. "So, you said you don't know his wife?"
"No, haven't met her yet. That's why I'm bringing the wine," he said and pointed to the bottle on the backseat. "I didn't know what to get her and I thought you can't go wrong with wine. Right?"
"No, wine is good," Rose assured him, although had he told her sooner than yesterday that they were going to a birthday party she could have come up with something to buy for Alice. Edward was a simple guy, so she hoped Jasper was similar to Edward's character since they were friends and by default his wife was, too.
Rose adored her cousin. Being the same age they had spent many summers visiting each other. Being only children, they were to each other the siblings they never had. She remembered the one summer after they graduated high school. She literally had to beg him to visit. And when he did it took her a week to get out of him why he was in such a shitty mood all the time. Would have been better if he hadn't said anything because Rose yelled at him and called him a jackass. "How could you say something like that about a person you allegedly care about? If I were Bella, I would have kicked you in the nuts and then ignored you." He had wholeheartedly agreed with Rose.
"We're here," Edward announced after he parked his car in front of an old two storey brownstone apartment building.
"This looks nice," Rose commented. Beside the building she also admired the variety of plants and flowers covering the front yard. "Very charming."
Edward nodded but didn't say anything. He was too occupied with the strange feelings and vibes that coursed through his body; his fingers were tingling and his heartbeat accelerated. It lasted for about ten seconds until it ebbed again.
Edward knocked on the door and seconds later Jasper opened it with a wide smile.
"Edward, my man," Jasper greeted his friend with an one arm hug and a clap on the back. "Glad you could make it. Come on in."
"Of course, I wouldn't miss it," Edward said truthfully. "Jasper, this is Rose. Rose, this is my old friend and college roommate, Jasper," he introduced them to each other.
"Nice to meet you," they both said.
"This is my wife, Alice." Jasper looked at his better half with a smile.
Alice shook the newcomer's hands and Edward noticed the strained smile on Jasper's wife's face. If he had to guess he'd say she felt somehow uncomfortable, even though he couldn't fathom why. While Edward was still trying to figure out what Alice's problem was, Rose hugged a surprised Alice. "Happy birthday," she said. "You have a lovely home." Not that Rose had seen much yet but she figured that was a nice thing to say for starters. She looked around the foyer and her eyes fell on a couple standing about five feet away.
A gorgeous woman not much taller than Alice was fidgeting with the hem of her blue blouse and looked nervous about something. But Rose's attention was drawn to the hunk of a man standing next to said woman. He was tall and bulky and if it wasn't for his short curly brown hair and warm brown eyes and dimples that were on display because of the smile he was sporting, she'd have taken him for a typically intimidating muscleman. She felt a pang of disappointment when she noticed her dream man was holding the other woman's hand.
Edward had finally given up figuring out Alice's strange behaviour and followed Rose's example as a good guest. He wished Alice a happy birthday, handed her the bottle of wine he'd brought and thanked her for the invitation.
Alice's nervousness about the whole situation was still obvious. She wasn't sure what to do next. She thanked Edward for the wine and she had to admit that he was nothing like she had expected him to be. Bella hadn't been exaggerating when she called him beautiful. He was, undoubtedly so. Alice was looking for the cocky part that she remembered her friend describing him once upon a time, but couldn't find it. He was polite and maybe a bit reserved, but the last bit she could understand seeing as they didn't know each other yet.
The only thing she still had to go through, was introducing the couple to Emmett and Bella. One look at her fidgeting friend and she wished Jasper hadn't gone to his classroom that day because then Edward wouldn't be here.
Jasper was waiting for his wife to introduce Emmett and Bella to Edward and his partner but when nothing happened he decided to do it himself.
"Edward, Rose, this is Alice's cousin Emmett McCarty and our neighbor and good friend Isabella Swan."
Edward hadn't realized there were two more people present. He smiled sincerely at the giant that had joined the squad but the smile slipped and his eyes widened when they moved to the woman next to Emmett.
"Bella?"
ooo
The moment she heard Edward's voice in the foyer Bella's heart began beating like a jackhammer. Even Emmett's hand clasping hers in silent support wasn't helping to calm her nerves. "You're going to be ok?" Emmett whispered into her ear. Bella nodded but her sweaty palms proved the exact opposite. "I know you won't tell me what's going on but still… should I be worried?"
Bella looked up to Emmett, his eyes so full of concern that she realized what he must be thinking. "Oh, God, no! Nothing like that! He isn't a violent person." she whispered back. "We, um, we used to date in high school and he did something, said something…" Bella was speaking a mile a minute, Emmett had to stop her.
"I get it. The little punk hurt you? What did he do? Cheat?"
Bella shook her head. "No. Let's just say he thought I was cheating on him." She didn't want to go further and purposely left out Jacob. That was too embarrassing to mention.
"Is he insane?" Emmett hissed. "You would never do that. What was he thinking?" Bella smiled at Emmett's too kind opinion of her. Not that it wasn't true. She thought of herself as faithful and loyal.
Bella caught a glance at the breathtakingly beautiful woman with long blonde, wavy hair and clear blue eyes standing next to Edward, her arm linked with his. Bella didn't know who she expected but this was not it. This woman was perfect.
Hearing Jasper saying Bella's name, she looked up from fidgeting with her blouse. Edward hadn't noticed her yet and in the few seconds it took him to look from Emmett to her, one fact - one tiny but important fact - went through Bella's mind. She was in the advantage here. She had the upperhand in this situation. Edward had no idea she would be here. Unlike her, he didn't have time to prepare himself for seeing her. And when he finally looked at her, with his eyes wide open in surprise and visibly shocked, Bella relaxed. Just like that her mind clicked and all fear and insecurities left her body.
"Bella?"
"Hi Edward." It surprised her how even her voice sounded, how there was no sign of tremor in it and it gave her the courage to step toward him and hug him like they were old long lost friends. She noticed though how Edward's arms shook a little as he returned her gesture and she could have sworn he buried his nose into her hair and breathed her in.
The people surrounding them each had a different reaction to what was going on in front of them.
Alice sighed in relief, then smiled proudly at her friend who just minutes ago wanted to leave.
Jasper looked confused, but he would ask his wife later what was going on.
Rose gaped when she realized who it was Edward was hugging. His eyes were closed and his arms embraced Bella's form with such a tenderness it almost brought tears to Rose's eyes. What surprised her the most was the sincere smile on the woman's face. And Rose was convinced that Bella wasn't even aware she was doing it.
The moment Emmett spotted his future wife (if only in his fantasy) he was done. She was the most exquisite being he had ever seen. But as luck would have it, the gorgeous blonde was already taken. By the prick that had hurt his friend, nonetheless.
Emmett was watching Rose, whose face looked like she wanted to burst into tears. He had watched Bella and Edward's interaction and his immediate conclusion was that Rose was hurting, seeing her boyfriend hugging Bella with such familiarity and affection. He did not like it. Emmett being the moralist that he was, instantly and not so gently pulled Bella back to his side and put his arms around her, leaving Bella perplexed and Edward frowning.
Edward had a hard time processing what had just happened. Was it a dream or was it really Bella he just had his arms around?
There had been a few occasions where he had imagined accidently meeting her. They usually ended up in Bella either hitting him or acting like she didn't know who he was. This encounter was the kind he didn't even dare to dream about. His hands were still shaking with excitement, which didn't slip Rose's attention so she put a hand on his back, running it up and down in an attempt to calm him. "How are you feeling, Edward?" she asked him sympathetically.
"I don't know," he answered truthfully. "I can't believe this is Bella. She looks different but still the same." Of course she looked different. While his picture of her never changed (in his mind she had still been the seventeen year old he had hurt), before him now stood a much more mature Bella. Her hair was shorter, her eyes less naive, more observant and her body - dear God, her body! - had filled out perfectly. While his seventeen year old mind had always fantasized about being intimate with her, his now more experienced body screamed to steal her and hide her somewhere remote and to feel her every curve, taste every inch of her skin and… No! He had to stop thinking like that. He had lost that right a long time ago. She had moved on. Of course she had. What else did he expect? That she'd wait for him? Edward almost laughed out loud at his foolish thoughts.
"So," Alice's voice brought everyone out of their thoughts. "Shall we go into the dining room?"
Everyone, especially Bella, was elated at Alice's suggestion.
Jasper and Alice excused themselves, disappearing for drinks and bread for the meat, leaving four people sitting in awkward silence. Edward was the first to speak. He cleared his throat and with it got everyone's attention.
"How have you been, Bella?"
Bella was rearranging the cutlery, the nervousness back, when she realized that Edward was actually addressing her. Her head shot up and her eyes found his green ones. "Oh," was her not so eloquent reply. "I-I've been good. A lot going on lately." She felt like a sixth grader but even they had probably better answers to give than her.
When they were dating they had never lacked conversation. There was always something to talk about and they could talk for hours at times. Ten years and many resentments later they would have to get to know each other again to be able to get back to where they once were. Not that Bella was toying with the thought of rekindling anything with him. Although… No, she couldn't think of that.
Edward's brow furrowed at her answer. He had hoped she would reveal more about her life but she didn't and Edward refrained from asking more questions, not wanting to be a nuisance. "That's, um, good, I guess." It was his turn to pay attention to everything but Bella.
Rose had watched the interaction between her cousin and Bella. While she could understand that the woman across from her was cautious in regards to Edward, considering their past, her protectiveness toward her cousin made her believe that Bella could have been a bit more courteous. Rose glared at Bella, hoping she'd sense her gaze on her. It was Edward who noticed it and nudged Rose. "Cut it out, Rose," he hissed.
"What? She could have been a bit nicer," Rose defended her action.
"A bit nicer about what?" came Emmett's irritated voice. It didn't matter how attractive he found Rose, no one talked about Bella like that.
Not realizing they had heard her, Rose felt scolded and looked bashfully at the subject of her irrational anger.
"I'm sorry," Rose apologized but Bella only nodded. She didn't feel good about this whole "Bella is rude to Edward" thing and she prayed that Alice and Jasper would come back soon.
As if they heard her prayers, Jasper and Alice rejoined their guests.
Bella immediately grabbed the gin and tonic Jasper had put in front of her and took a huge sip, hoping it would calm her nerves.
While Emmett, Rose, Jasper and Alice were busy talking about everything and anything, Bella and Edward were engaged in their own thoughts.
With all the awkwardness going on Bella almost didn't notice how good Edward looked. He had always been handsome with his green eyes, unruly reddish brown hair and the defined jaw she had loved to cover with her lips but now, ten years later he looked even better.
No wonder he was dating a woman like Rose. They were both extraordinarily beautiful and they were undoubtedly a great fit.
A pang of jealousy hit Bella unexpectedly and it shocked her. She had never been jealous even when she dated James, who loved to flirt with everything on two legs. She always justified her lack of reaction with not really being in love with him for her to care enough. Did that mean she wasn't in love with Edward back then either? He would never flirt with the girls in high school, at least not in Bella's presence, but he was always surrounded by them. Shouldn't that have made her at least a little bit jealous? And why was it bothering her now that he was with someone? Her reaction to Edward made no sense to her.
Her eyes sought him out automatically. He pretended to listen to what the others were talking about, giving them supposedly encouraging smiles here and there, but Bella could tell his thoughts were elsewhere. It occurred to her that Edward had definitely changed when it came to his character. While he used to love being the center of attention and had never been out of topic he was now quiet and pensive. As a teenager she had somehow liked his cockiness and self-confidence because she had needed someone who was the exact opposite of her (not that she was shy or quiet, but she also wasn't really too outgoing) but now, seeing him so calm and steady she had to admit that the new version of him appealed to her more than the old one ever could. Bella was so deep in her own thoughts that she didn't realize that Edward was watching her. She gasped when her eyes met his, deep and intense, but neither of them wavered. It was like a staring contest; who's going to look away first.
Edward's heart beat erratically. Her deep brown eyes still had the same effect on him; mysterious but warm. He remembered a time when after they made out and touched each other under the clothes like the horny teenagers they were, they would just lie there and look into each other's eyes. No words, just stares. Many times he had wanted to tell her how he felt, how he adored her, but he never dared and then he went and fucked up what they had. Royally. He was good at pretending, at feigning that nothing really fazed him but that day, when his fucking jealousy ruined everything between him and Bella, he had gone home and cried.
Even now, thinking about what he had and then lost, he had to fight against the tears that were threatening to surface. He had long since stopped hiding his feelings but he was at someone else's house - a guest - so he got himself together and he was the first to look away.
Bella was a mess. She had never expected to be able to see into Edward's soul like she just did. He had changed, that was evident. Not even when she ignored him back then did he look affected by it. But now she could have sworn she saw his eyes shimmering with unshed tears. She was on the verge of crying herself and when Alice announced it was time for the cake, Bella gladly offered to get it for her.
Finally out of everyone's sight, she put her hands on the sink and took deep breaths to calm herself. What the fuck had just happened? Why did he still have such an effect on her? She had sworn to herself if she'd ever meet Edward again she would be civil and friendly but nothing more. It did work for a while.
Until it didn't.
She tried to get herself together as well as she could when she heard someone entering the kitchen. She went to the fridge to get the cake, thinking it was her friend wondering what took her so long. "I'll be right out, Alice," Bella said and almost dropped the cake when it wasn't Alice's voice that answered her.
"It's not Alice," Rose said, eyeing Bella cautiously, then went to the cupboards. "I thought I could help." She found the dessert plates and forks and put them on the counter next to the fridge.
Bella looked at Rose hesitantly. Something about her made her nervous and guilty. Just minutes ago she was thinking about Edward and how good he looked and she was afraid Rose would be able to read her.
Bella started to cut the chocolate cake - Alice's favorite - and put the slices on the plain white ceramic plates. They worked in awkward silence since Bella didn't know what to say to the woman who had the privilege to touch and kiss her Edward.
Bella's hand stopped mid cut when she realized what she was thinking. What the fuck! What was wrong with her? Her Edward? She shook her head and resumed her task.
"I want to apologize," Rose said suddenly, startling Bella.
"For what?" Bella asked but didn't look up at Rose.
"For my behavior. But to be clear, I'm not apologizing for what I said, only for the way I said it. I should have told you that in private and not with everyone present."
Bella's head whipped around and her wide brown eyes met Rose's blue, serious ones. "Excuse me?"
"You were rude, Bella," Rose stated calmly and matter of factly. "All he wanted to do was talk to you, and you…"
Bella gaped at Rose. "Are you serious? Do you even know me, Rose? Or what I'm thinking? You don't get to judge me based on…" Bella stopped her rant, embarrassed at her outburst. She shook her head in disbelief. What gave this woman the right to talk to her like that? "What do you even know about me or my motives?" She realized her voice was too loud and she feared that everyone would be able to hear her. She resumed in a much calmer tone, "If I don't want to talk to him, then..." She stopped again because she knew she wanted to talk to Edward. He just caught her off guard and left her inarticulate. Nevermind that Rose was his girlfriend but that was something between her and Edward.
"First of all, I know a lot of what happened between you and Edward," Rose enlightened Bella. She didn't sound angry or jealous like Bella would have expected from a girlfriend and that confused her. No, Rose sounded almost sad.
"He told you about us? Why would he do that?" Bella asked incredulously.
"Why wouldn't he?" Rose countered with a shrug. "He needed someone to talk to about it and I was there."
"Yeah, someone but not his girlfriend," Bella told a gaping Rose.
"Sorry, what?" It was Rose's turn to look confused. "What girlfriend?"
"Well, you," Bella said, pointing at Rose.
It took Rose a moment to process what Bella just said but then she put a hand over her mouth to prevent herself from laughing too hard.
"What's so funny?" Bella asked, irritated.
"You," Rose replied, still amused at the misunderstanding. "My God, girl. I'm not his girlfriend. I'm his cousin."
"Jesus Christ, that's embarrassing." Bella covered her face with her hands, absolutely mortified. Rose was still laughing and Bella joined her when she thought about how ridiculous this situation actually was.
Bella took a seat at the kitchen island and Rose followed her. "I'm sorry I was so rude," Bella apologized, facing Rose. "I don't know what came over me. That's not me."
"It's understandable, considering the whole situation," Rose said in a placatory voice. "I'm sorry, too." Bella looked at Rose doubtfully. "No, really, I am. Looking at it now, it must be hard for both of you seeing each other again after such a long time. You were right, Bella, I don't know you. I know only the things Edward told me about you." Bella tensed up but Rose put a soothing hand on her arm. "It was only good things, I swear." She belayed her statement with a smile.
"I doubt that," Bella said.
"Doubt all you want, it's the truth." Both were quiet, recalling their own memories of a time that was long past. "That summer after graduation he was unrecognizable," Rose broke the silence. "We have always been close, talked about everything, you know? But that summer he shut down. It took me a while to coax it out of him."
Bella squirmed in her seat, uncomfortable about the fact that someone else except for the people that were present - and later Alice - knew about why Bella broke up with Edward.
"You can't imagine how down he was. Of course I called him all kinds of names and told him you don't say things like that about someone you love." Rose was gauging Bella's reaction and she wasn't disappointed.
"He told you he loved me?" Bella asked, stunned.
Of course it's the only thing she's heard, Rose thought bemused.
"He didn't tell me anything, Bella but you didn't need to be a genius to figure that out. Anyway, he was aware he fucked up and that there wasn't even a tiny bit of a chance that you could work this out."
"He was right," Bella stated firmly. "After the initial shock wore off, sadness became anger. I mean, neither Jacob nor I gave him a reason to do what he did but still. I couldn't understand what made him doubt me." She looked at Rose as if she had all the answers.
"You'll have to discuss this with him. All I know is that he never thought he'd see you again. And then, here you are, more beautiful than he remembers. His words not mine." Rose smiled softly. "Didn't you notice how excited he was seeing you again after so many years?"
Yes, Bella had noticed and it had secretly thrilled her but she'd never admit it.
"He hurt me, Rose," Bella whispered. "He really, really hurt me."
"I know, sweetie. And he knows it too, believe me. Please, just give him a chance to talk to you. Just talk, nothing else."
Bella didn't promise anything and Rose understood that.
"Ok, enough with the heavy," Rose suggested with a grin. "Tell me about your boyfriend." Bella didn't miss Rose's blush when she obviously referred to Emmett.
"Emmett? He's a great guy. Very loyal." Bella grinned, thinking about how ready he was to protect her from the big bad wolf that was Edward. Rose drank in every word Bella was saying. "He's a catch, that's for sure."
"You're a lucky girl! He's so hot," Rose sighed but quickly put a hand over her mouth, her eyes wide in shock when she realized that she was sitting here with his girlfriend. "Oh my God, Bella, I'm so sorry."
"Why are you sorry? I know he's hot." Bella loved teasing an already flustered Rose.
"Yes, but you are his girlfriend and I shouldn't have said that in front of you."
"Calm down, Rose. He's not my boyfriend, ok?"
"He's not?"
"Nope," Bella confirmed.
"Could have fooled me."
"I'm not saying there wasn't attraction at some point but I think we both knew that wouldn't be a good idea. All we'll ever be is good friends."
Rose frowned at Bella's statement, the attraction part not making her feeling great.
Bella put a hand on Rose's arm. "You like Emmett, don't you?" Rose nodded sheepishly. "Then believe me when I say there is nothing nor will there ever be anything between him and me. Ever. So I'd say go for it. Who knows, might turn out you're just his type."
"Guys! Where's the cake already?" Alice stood in the kitchen, her hands on her hips and scowled at Bella and Rose.
The two women looked at each other and started to laugh. Each of them took two plates to finally bring it to the dining room.
"I'll sit next to Edward, if you don't mind, so you can chat with Emmett," Bella said and winked at a surprised Rose.
ooo
Edward was nervous ever since Rose joined Bella in the kitchen. He knew Rose and her lack of filter and that's why he was afraid she might say something and hurt Bella. He didn't want Bella to think he had something to do with Rose's attitude toward her. They had been gone way too long and he started to worry. Even Emmett was looking every once in a while to the kitchen, probably worried about Bella.
Suddenly there was laughter coming from the kitchen. First he recognized Rose's unmistakable laugh and then… Bella's. God, she still had the same uninhibited and hearty laugh he'd loved back then. And that hadn't changed - it was still his favorite sound.
Across from Edward, Emmett was listening too. He was wondering what made them laugh so hard since Bella had seemed so down earlier. When he saw Rose following Bella earlier he was convinced she would address Bella again about why she was so rude to Edward. Listening to them laugh, especially Rose, brought a smile to his face. He noticed Edward mirrored Emmett's expression and he immediately felt guilty. He had to remind himself that Rose and Edward were an item. Life sucked, big time.
When Rose came back and took a seat next to Emmett, he swallowed thickly. He threw a quick and apprehensive glance at Edward who was just as surprised at seeing Bella next to him. He turned back to Rose who was smiling at him. "Hi," she whispered and Emmett thought his heart would leap out of his chest.
Edward had a similar reaction. When Bella sat down next to him, he took a deep breath before turning to her. "Hey," he said and when she smiled brightly, he felt as if he was soaring. Her seemingly good mood gave him the courage to talk to her freely. "Not that I'm complaining, but what are you doing here?"
"Rose wanted to get to know Emmett so I thought we'll switch places. If that's ok with you." She looked at him for confirmation that her sitting next to him was ok.
"Of course that's ok," Edward assured her quickly. He didn't want her to think otherwise. "It's just that… Honestly, you have always been the better person, Bella."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, he's your boyfriend and…" Edward pointed to Emmett and Rose who were sitting close to each other, with Emmett whispering something in her ear while Rose was giggling and blushing.
"Oh that! Ok, I might be tolerant, Edward but this?" she motioned to the people in question. "No. If Emmett were my boyfriend I wouldn't let that slide, believe me."
It took Edward two seconds for the words to sink in. "So, he's not…"
"No. He's just a friend."
"Oh, ok, that's great." Bella looked at him questioningly. "I mean that's great since he's obviously interested in Rose. Wouldn't be good otherwise if you two, you know?" I should really shut up now, Edward thought.
Bella had to be careful not to laugh at his rambling. Could it be that he was jealous? She noticed his lips moving, like he was talking to himself and stabbing the piece of cake in front of him.
Edward was annoyed with himself. It wasn't like it was his business how Bella handled her private life. Yes, he was elated that Emmett wasn't a competition, but... What the fuck, Edward! Competition, really, he thought and took it out on the poor cake.
"Whatever did my cake do to you?" Bella joked.
Edward stopped uglifying the innocent chocolaty goodness and looked at the grinning woman next to him. "You made that? You bake now?"
"Don't look at me like that's a strange thing," she said amused. "Did you forget how you used to scarf down my cupcakes?"
"Oh God, yes, your cupcakes were the best," Edward moaned when he remembered their taste. Hearing him talk like she assumed he would sound in another, more private setting she squirmed in her seat and felt suddenly hot.
"That's, uh, nice to hear," Bella said and took the napkin next to her plate to fan herself.
"Are you ok?" Edward asked. He noticed that Bella was flushed and he was worried that maybe she had caught something.
"What? Oh, no. It's just suddenly very warm in here." She sped up the movement with the napkin to prove her point. Edward shrugged, not really feeling the heat and finally took a bite.
There was the bedroom sound again and it took Bella all her willpower not to climb into his lap and shut him up. Preferably with her lips. Like that wouldn't make him moan even more, you moron, she thought.
Edward noticed Bella watching him with hooded eyes. He wondered what was wrong with her but then he realized that he had moaned while chewing the piece of cake. Jesus, was she turned on? Let her be turned on, please. You're pathetic, Edward.
"Can I have your attention, please?" Alice asked, grinning while clinking her glass with her dessert fork, like she was about to announce something important. "How about we continue my birthday by going later to the new club that opened last week? Bella, are you coming with us? You're off tomorrow, right?"
Out of the corner of her eyes Bella saw Edward looking at her expectantly. If she didn't go she'd be a spoil sport. She had been looking forward to a decent night sleep, and partying with Alice meant coming home late or early, it depended how you looked at it. It was Alice's birthday though, so there was nothing to think about.
"Yeah, I'll join you guys."
ooo
Two hours later they all met outside the club. Bella was dressed in tight black pants and a bordeaux sleeveless turtleneck top. Her hair was styled in a wild mane and her four inch heels made her legs look a mile long. And she looked incredible. At least that's what Edward thought. Her makeup was minimal and again it proved that she didn't really love it.
They were let in and the gang immediately looked for a free booth to sit. They were lucky and found the only one unoccupied.
Edward ended up sitting next to Bella. Not that he minded, the opposite actually. "You look really good tonight," he whispered in her ear. "Beautiful, actually."
Goosebumps covered her skin at his words and proximity. She looked up and into his beautiful eyes. "Thank you." Neither had the intention to look away. There was something about being here, in the club, that made her feel differently. If it was the lighting or the music, she couldn't be sure. The only thing she knew was if she wasn't careful nothing would guarantee she wouldn't go home with him tonight if he asked. She hadn't had sex in months and seeing him in his grey pants that hugged his strong thighs and the light green v-neck shirt that clung to his defined chest like a second skin she wanted to do just that.
But should she? Only four hours ago she had wanted to run and hide when she heard that Edward was coming. She didn't feel like seeing him. But now? Now everything looked different. She wanted him. Plain and simple. She was sure he felt the same but there was one thing they needed to do first.
She looked at her hands then back up at him. "I was wondering if we could talk one day soon. I have a few questions about what happened back then. Why you said what you said to Jacob."
Edward wasn't prepared for her question. "Of-of course, Bella. I'd like that." When she smiled at him he thought how he'd definitely kick himself this time if he'd screw this up. He took her hand in his and squeezed it. "Thank you."
At that moment a waitress with fiery red hair came to their table. "Hey guys, what can I get you?" She looked round and when her gaze fell on Edward she quickly adjusted her too tight top, making sure her voluminous boobs were almost spilling out.
She took the other's drink orders, saving Bella and Edward for last.
"How about you, handsome?" she asked Edward with a seductive smile.
Bella didn't like the way she was looking at him. Leering was the more accurate word for how the redhead eyed Edward. She refrained from saying anything since she had no right but she was interested in how Edward was going to react.
To her surprise he casually put an arm around her and leaned back in the booth, taking her with him. He turned his head and winked at a wide eyed Bella. "What would you like, love?" Holy crap! Now that was a question that was easy to answer but Bella didn't think "you" was the right reply.
"A Malibu pineapple, please," she said, never taking her eyes off him.
Edward smirked almost like he knew what her original answer would have been. This was the Edward she used to know and surprisingly it didn't bother her one bit.
Edward turned back to the rude woman, his expression neutral. "A Malibu pineapple for the lady and a beer for me." His tone let her know he wasn't interested in whatever else she thought she could offer him.
The waitress quickly left their table, too embarrassed at her failed attempt to seduce the gorgeous man.
Edward groaned in frustration. "I really hate when they do that." His arm was still around Bella and he unconsciously pulled her closer like she could protect him from the overbearing waitress.
Bella looked at him sympathetically. "Don't worry, Edward, I'll protect you," she halfway joked but Edward didn't laugh. His eyes roamed her face and landed on her lips. "You promise?" he asked earnestly. Will you let me into your life again? were the words he really meant.
Bella understood what he meant and she knew she had to be careful with her answer. This wasn't a game. "I'll try."
Edward nodded in understanding and smiled softly. "Thank you."
"Let's dance," Alice said and pulled Bella and Rose out of the booth and on the dance floor.
The guys sat in their seats, with matching grins on their faces as they watched their girls dance.
Edward was relieved when another waitress brought their drinks. She put the beverages on the table, smiled a friendly smile and left. He couldn't stand constant flirting and sexual innuendos. Once upon a time he had found that exciting but not anymore. Especially not since he was here with Bella. He didn't want to risk an end to whatever was potentially re-developing between them.
Thinking about Bella made him look for her. He found her dancing alone in the crowd. Her eyes were closed, her hips swaying slowly to the slower beat and a content smile grazed her face. She was so damn sexy he had a hard time sitting there and not jumping up and joining her. He'd rather sit and watch her move seductively.
Edward noticed a guy standing at one of the high tables watching Bella appreciatively. Not a second later the man started to walk toward her and Edward was immediately on his feet. He walked to the edge of the dance floor and stood there watching her and the guy who was whispering something into her ear. Edward was ready to go over there and make an end to the guy's attempt to pick up his girl. Bella wasn't his girl - yet - but if he had any say in this she would be, sooner than later. He decided to not butt in and see what Bella would do. Maybe black haired men were more her type. The thought alone sucked but what could he do? March over there and stake his claim? He remembered how well that went over the last time he tried it. He decided to just watch over her, making sure she was ok.
ooo
Bella was annoyed with the guy who was persistently trying to dance with her by holding her hips. No matter how many times she told him no he just didn't give up. "Oh, come on, baby," the guy cooed. "Just one dance."
"I don't think my boyfriend would appreciate it," Bella argued. Well, she was sure he wouldn't if she actually had a boyfriend. Then she spotted Edward standing about six feet from her, watching her with a look she couldn't decipher - protective and hesitant at the same time. She had an idea and she hoped Edward wouldn't mind what she planned to do next. "Oh, look, there he is." She pointed toward Edward and before the guy could do or say something she walked towards a stunned looking Edward.
"Please, just play along," she begged. Bella put her hand on Edward's neck and pulled him down. Her lips touched his only for a short time but long enough to stun them both. With their eyes locked, they were looking for a sign, anything that told them that this was ok. That it was ok to lean in one more time and taste. "Bella," Edward whispered, his eyes gazing tenderly at her parted lips and his hand caressing her cheeks.
It was inevitable and Bella knew it. She didn't want to pretend anymore that Edward didn't have an effect on her. All this time the only thing she was trying to do was to fight off the pull he had on her and keep away from him, given their past. Fuck that, fuck the past. She would think about that later. All she wanted to do was to kiss Edward again.
Edward stood completely still as Bella nervously licked her lips. If she wasn't about to do what he thought she was he would lose his mind. But when she pulled him down once again and their lips finally reconnected, Edward let out a satisfied moan that vibrated through Bella's entire body. Their lips moved against each other, the feeling new but yet familiar. He buried one hand into her hair and the other gripped her hip and pulled her closer.
Bella felt like she was flying. She didn't know or couldn't even imagine how much she had missed this, how much she missed him until his lips touched hers. Her feelings were all over the place. How could it be that, even if she hated him - even the idea of him - for so long, she welcomed his touches and kisses. She welcomed him.
"Tell me this is real, Bella," Edward begged. "Tell me this won't be over as soon as I let go of you." He cupped her face and looked at her pleadingly.
Bella put her hands on his and smiled softly. "It won't," she promised. "But Edward, we will have to talk or else…"
"I agree," he said quickly before Bella could change her mind.
She contemplated if it would be too soon or too forward to do that tonight. At her place. Who cares anyway, she thought. "Ok, let's go." She took Edward's hand and led him to where their friends were.
Taking her clutch, she whispered to Alice that she was going home and that Edward was driving her. Alice winked but Bella only rolled her eyes.
They didn't talk on their way to Bella's. Edward was still thrilled that he was being given the chance to finally say what he had wanted to since forever, so he spent the fifteen minute drive thinking about what would be the best way to start the conversation.
Bella's apartment had the same layout as Jasper and Alice's. The only difference was that her apartment was minimalistically furnished. There was a couch and a small coffee table and across from it was a T.V. on a retro dark wooden sideboard. Very simple and very Bella.
The kitchen was another story though. There was every imaginable kitchen gadget possible; from a small sized kneading machine to a pasta maker and various baking pans and sheets were neatly stacked on the kitchen counter.
"Can I get you something to drink?" Bella asked while she took off her heels. "I have water or apple juice."
"Water is fine, thank you," Edward replied.
After she brought him a glass of water and asked him to make himself comfortable, Bella went to her room to change. She put on a tank top and sweatpants and joined Edward with a glass of apple juice.
Neither of them knew what to say, or rather, where to start.
Edward broke the silence first. "Where do you want us to start?" Even though it was a simple question, Bella didn't know how to begin.
"I always wondered what made you say these things to Jacob?"
Edward put his glass down on the coffee table and sat sideways on the couch so he had a better look at Bella. "To say I was an immature and insecure seventeen year old idiot would not suffice, I assume?" Bella shook her head. Of course he knew it wouldn't be enough of an explanation but it was how he felt. "There were a few factors that made me do and say what I did. The most important one was jealousy."
"You were jealous even though I told you over and over again that there was nothing between Jacob and I? You never trusted me, Edward, and that hurt."
"My lack of trust was also on the never ending list of issues," Edward said. "I think it was more Jacob I didn't believe."
"Why? What about him gave you the impression you couldn't believe either of us? And besides, you believed everyone else over me."
"That's what Jacob said too," Edward remembered. "I knew he was right but still, I was pigheaded, stubborn, whatever you want to call it. And to answer your question, it wasn't anything specific about Jacob. It was more the way you two behaved." Bella opened her mouth to defend her friend but Edward continued. "You were barely holding my hand in public and he was allowed to hug you whenever he wanted." His words came out harsher than intended.
Bella huffed in annoyance. "That's what was bothering you? My God, Edward, why didn't you say something? I would have told you the reason why I was more comfortable hugging him in public than you." Edward looked hurt and Bella realized what she said. "That came out wrong. What I meant is that I was already scrutinized by all the females in high school for even dating you. I mean, Edward Cullen, the new, hot kid in Forks was dating quiet and mousy Bella Swan. How scandalous. I didn't have self esteem issues, don't worry. I just didn't like their looks, that's all."
"It shouldn't have mattered to you, Bella!" Edward argued. "Did it ever cross your mind how I felt?" Bella felt bad hearing him saying what was probably the truth. She had never thought about his feelings but that wasn't entirely her fault.
"How should I have known? You were always so cool and collected. Nothing fazed you."
"I know," he admitted quietly. "I should have talked to you. I always assumed you'd see through me, that I was an open book."
Bella laughed out. "You were many things but an open book wasn't one of them."
Edward grinned. "Yeah, I was quite delusional, wasn't I?"
Bella copied his stance and took his hand in hers. "I still want to know why you said to Jacob he could have me? You have no idea how it hurt to hear you say that."
Edward entwined their fingers and sighed. "I will regret that for as long as I live, believe me." Bella squeezed his fingers lightly, letting him know she believed him. She saw it today, how careful he was talking to her, fearing he might say something that made her retreat. "I don't even know why I said something so stupid and thoughtless and rash. I know something inside of me exploded when Jacob said that it would be best if you just broke up with me. That you would be better off without me."
Bella gasped. "He said that?"
"Yeah. The funny thing is though, that for a millisecond I thought maybe he was right. Even if that was probably the best option it had to come from you and not from him."
Bella felt terrible. Not only because her best friend said all these things but also because she had been thinking a few times about ending it with Edward. "I have to tell you something, Edward."
Edward watched her and didn't like what he was seeing. She looked guilty and Edward felt as if someone pierced his heart. "He was right, wasn't he?"
"No, he was not right. He didn't have the right to tell you that. I did toy with the thought of breaking up with you a few times though."
"Oh." Edward didn't know what to say.
"Only because your jealousy made me so fucking mad. And it didn't help the matter that you wouldn't believe me. I couldn't bring myself to do it though. I liked you, Edward and I had planned to talk to you, to tell you how I felt. I didn't want to end up in a relationship where I had to be careful what I did and what I said. I was afraid that your irrational doubts and jealousy would only get worse with time. I've seen it destroying my aunt and uncle, the constant doubts and worries, and that's not something I wanted to go through."
"I would have never hurt you like that, Bella," Edward said quickly.
"Are you sure? Could you have guaranteed to me that you wouldn't have doubted me as soon as you saw me talking to Jacob, much less something else?"
"No," Edward confessed. "and I get what you're saying. I really was an insensitive jerk, wasn't I? I'd like to think though that if I had told you from the start how I felt, how much you meant to me, all this could have been avoided. There were a few occasions that I wanted to tell how much I liked you and above everything how much I adored you."
Bella's heart was beating frantically and her mouth stood open in disbelief. "You what?"
"I was in love with you, Bella and my fear of losing you to not only Jacob but anyone really made me do stupid things. Like I said earlier today, you have always been the better person, Bella."
"I was not. I am not, but can we go back to the part where you said you were in love with me?"
As much as Edward wanted to comply with her he had to know first what she meant when she said she wasn't. "What do you mean when you say you're not a better person?"
"Well," Bella said, smiling sheepishly. "I might have had a jealousy attack myself today."
"You what? Why?" Edward asked, confused.
"Because I thought Rose was your girlfriend and she's so beautiful and…"
Edward had the same reaction as his cousin. He laughed at the absurdity of Bella's assumption.
"Thanks a lot for laughing, Edward." She crossed her arms and pouted. "Now you and Rose can make fun of me together."
Edward immediately stopped laughing but a small grin was still present. "I'm not laughing at you, I'm laughing with you."
"I'm not laughing," she said defiantly but two seconds later she found herself grinning at Edward.
"So you were jealous, eh?" Edward scooted closer to Bella, all playfulness gone. "What if I told you I like that? Knowing that you aren't as immune to it as I thought?"
His green eyes were serious, his face only centimeters from hers and his breath warm and inviting.
Bella cupped his cheek and traced his stubble with her thumb. "I'd ask you to show me how much you like it."
Edward swallowed thickly before he closed the distance and captured her mouth with his lips. Bella didn't waste time and climbed into his lap, straddling him.
"I'm sorry, Bella, I'm so sorry," Edward apologized in between hot and passionate kisses.
"Shh, not now, Edward. You're ruining it," Bella warned him sternly but her eyes were smiling.
"Didn't you know I'm a pro at ruining the best things that happen to me?" Edward smirked.
"Edward?"
"Hm?"
"Shut up and kiss me."
"Yes, ma'am."
Edward had a lot to make up to Bella and kissing her was only the beginning.