I went to bed late and woke up early to finish this for ya'll. Thanks so much for your support.

Hope you like it!

Double Deceit

Chapter 18:

Realization

The scent of lavender and chamomile filled the air, a comforting aroma that always calmed my nerves. Edward sat beside me on the bed, his arm slung casually around my shoulders. We were sprawled out on a giant, fluffy blanket, surrounded by scattered papers and a half-empty pan of the pizza Mrs. Biers made for lunch.

He came back from his rounds later that morning, and we have been working for a little bit. Everything was chaotic with the holidays approaching. With everything that happened, I haven't been able to decorate the house or put up the Christmas tree.

I sighed and snuggled closer to Edward.

"Now the other matter at hand, here are some listings I want us to go through; I want us to start the process of picking out a house," Edward said, looking down at me.

He brought his iPad across his thighs, bringing up a picture of a charming cottage with a sprawling garden.

"What do you think about this one?"

My heart skipped a beat. It was a stunning home, with a sunlit living room, a cozy fireplace, and a wide, inviting porch. "It's beautiful," I breathed.

"We could have a vegetable and herb garden in the back; I know Mrs. Biers would love that; she's sad she lost the one she had at my house." Edward smiled, his expression filled with a warmth that melted my insides.

"And we could build a play area for the babies and Hayden, with a swing set and a sandbox."

He scrolled through the iPad, showing me more houses. There were sprawling estates with breathtaking views and modern bungalows with minimalist decor. Each one was more captivating than the last, but they all felt different somehow from the quaint cottage style.

"I think I'm in love with the cottage-looking one," I said, my voice catching with emotion. "It feels like home."

Edward's hand found mine, his touch sending a wave of warmth through me. "I know," he whispered. "It feels like it's waiting for us."

We spent the rest of the afternoon discussing houses. Edward loved the idea of a spacious yard for the children to run around in, while I was drawn to the cozy, intimate atmosphere of the cottage. As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the room, we finally decided on a few houses to visit. The cottage was at the top of the list, followed by a charming bungalow with a spacious backyard and a modern farmhouse with a cozy feel.

We made appointments for tours the following week, and a strange mix of excitement and nervousness churned within me. It was hard to believe that in just a few months, two tiny humans would be filling our lives with laughter and chaos.

Edward held my hand, his fingers entwined with mine. "Once everything settles, it is going to be amazing, Bella," he said, his voice husky with emotion. "I'm going to show you what you're missing. I'm going to give you everything you've ever wanted and more."

I leaned my head against his shoulder, the warmth of his body radiating through me. "I know," I whispered. "Together, we'll build a home filled with love."

"Soon,"

"Soon," he agreed.

~DD~

A couple of hours later, Edward was called to the hospital as one of his patients had an accident and the baby had to be delivered four weeks early. He gave me a quick kiss and went out the door. I was scared for the mother and baby. I prayed that everything would turn out alright.

I went looking for Renata; I needed to occupy my mind while Edward returned.

She was in the kitchen doing the mise en place for dinner. "Do you need something, Tesoro?"

"I want to wrap some Christmas gifts; could you help me out?"

"Sure, give me a couple of minutes." I sat on the island as she finished cutting everything. "What are you making?"

"It's a surprise," she tutted at me with her knife.

Mrs. Biers was humming softly as she tied a ribbon around a box, carefully tucking in a scarf. I sat across from her, a pile of brightly wrapped gifts growing rapidly on the table.

"You know, Bella," Mrs. Biers said, her eyes crinkling with a smile. "Edward hasn't been this happy in years." I paused, the ribbon in my hand dangling precariously. My heart, already fluttering a bit because of Edward, did a little somersault. "Really?" I asked.

"Oh, yes," she nodded, her gaze softening. "He was so lost, you know? He was a different person; something changed a few years after he married. Before his divorce, he just shut down. His eyes held a sadness, like the light had gone out of them."

My fingers tightened around the ribbon. I knew it. Edward was guarded; whenever he spoke about her, he was a little withdrawn. He had this melancholic air about him, which only deepened when he would mention his ex-wife.

"But then you came along," Mrs. Biers continued, a twinkle in her eye. "And it's like something shifted. He's got that spark back, that joy. It's wonderful to see."

My cheeks flushed, a warmth spreading through me. I thought my presence in his life had brought about such a change. It was an unexpected but incredible feeling.

"He's like a son to me, you know," she said, her voice a little unsteady. "All I want for him is to be happy, to find someone who loves him as much as he deserves to be loved."

A sudden lump formed in my throat. I could see the love and concern in her eyes. That was what I loved about Mrs. Biers—her genuine heart and the way she always looked out for Edward and now me.

"He has found that, Mrs. Biers," I replied, a confident smile gracing my lips.

We fell silent for a moment; the only sound was the rustle of wrapping paper. I could feel Mrs. Biers' eyes on me, full of warmth and understanding.

"Well," she said finally, her smile returning, "I'm happy for you both. And for Edward. He deserves all the happiness in the world." The words felt like a blessing, a confirmation of the joy blooming in my heart.

"I promise you that I will never hurt him—well, not like she did, at least," I smiled.

As I continued to wrap the gifts, a feeling of contentment settled over me.

"Renata,"

"Yes, Tesoro?"

"Can you tell me more about her? Edward's been very cryptic. He hasn't even told me her name. All I know is that she's Native American."

She pondered for a few minutes. "Her name is Le..."

"Is anyone home?" Edward's voice came from downstairs.

I stood up and went down as fast as I could.

He engulfed me in his arms and kissed me. "Is everything okay with the patient?"

"She was in rough shape, but they both made it. She will recover, and the baby just needs to be in the incubator for a few days."

"I'm so relieved!" I hugged him. "Let's go upstairs so you can rest for a bit." I took his hand and led him up the stairs.

"We will resume the present wrapping at a later time."

"I'll get started on dinner," Renata said.

I relished the tranquility of the bath we shared. Edward's warm embrace enveloped me, his gentle touch sending shivers down my pregnant body. The soft glow of candles cast a golden haze upon us, illuminating the love we shared.

As I leaned against his broad chest, I couldn't help but marvel at the miracle growing within me. Edward's deep voice washed over me, a soothing melody that calmed both my body and soul.

"My Bella," he whispered, his lips grazing my ear, "you are radiant."

A coy smile played across my lips. "Only because of you, my love."

His large hands gently cradled my burgeoning belly, and his eyes were filled with a love that transcended words. I closed my eyes, savoring the moment, the weight of the world melting away.

After our bath, we retreated to my bedroom, the air thick with anticipation. Edward's fingers danced across my skin, a tender exploration that ignited a fire within me. His touch as he massaged my body was both sensual and soothing, awakening desires I had never known. With each stroke, I felt a surge of electricity coursing through my body. Edward's lips brushed against my neck, sending shivers of delight down my spine. He kissed me softly, his breath mingling with mine.

"I should be doing this to you," I whispered.

"Shh, relax," he commanded.

I stifled a laugh and stayed silent. "You are everything to me, Bella," he murmured against my skin. "My life, my heart, my soul."

I melted into his touch, and as he massaged my weary muscles, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude. His unwavering support and tenderness make me feel like the most cherished woman in the world. Edward's skilled hands eased the tension in my body, leaving me feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Tears of joy streamed down my face as I whispered, "Edward, I love you more than words can say."

In that moment, I realized that I had found not only a lover but also a soulmate, a man who loved and cherished me unconditionally.

"And I love you, Bella, more than life itself."

EPOV:

I leaned in, my hand hovering above Bella's bare shoulder, feeling the warmth of her skin. My eyes searched hers for permission, and she nodded, a gentle smile playing on her lips. I kissed her neck, feeling her pulse beneath my touch. My hand traveled down her arm, my fingers tracing the contours of her body, until they reached her waist. I felt her tense up. I pulled back, my gaze questioning.

"Bella, what's wrong?" I whispered, concerned. She took a deep breath, her eyes darting away from mine before returning, filled with a mix of embarrassment and pain. "It's just that every time I've done it like that, it hurts," she confessed, her voice murmuring. I sat up, my hand still on her waist, and leaned in to kiss her forehead.

"What do you mean?" Bella closed her eyes and exhaled, looking down. "You don't have to tell me if you don't want to," I said gently, "but maybe if you can explain what happened, I can make sure it doesn't happen again." I looked at her, Bella took another deep breath, and the words tumbled out of her.

"It's just... when he took me from behind, my perineum would hurt so much. It was like stabbing pain, and it would ruin the whole experience for me." She spoke quickly as her cheeks burned in embarrassment.

I listened, my thumb stroking her skin in a comforting pattern. "I'm so sorry, Bella. I had no idea." I paused, trying to keep the anger at bay.

"Have you let him know about your discomfort?" She nodded. "He didn't acknowledge it until recently."

"I was going to tell you about it, Edward; I just didn't know how." She ducked her head. "Did you know what you were getting yourself into?"

"My mom and I talked about sex before the wedding, but we never talked about positions. I was too chicken to ask." Bella's eyes stared into mine; my face remained open and calm.

"We don't have to do that," I told her sincerely. "Really?" she asked, hope seeping into her voice.

"Of course," I assured her, placing a soft kiss on her cheek. "We're partners in this, Bella. We do what feels right for both of us. Your comfort is what matters most."

"Thank you," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. "I just didn't want to disappoint you."

I leaned in closer, my breath warm against her ear. "You could never disappoint me, Bella. At least not in this; every time with you has been amazing." I took her hand in mine and placed it gently on my chest. She cuddled closer to me.

"I wanted to try it with you," she said after a few minutes of silence. Her cheeks flushed a deep red, and she took a moment before responding. "I've never felt comfortable enough to bring it up. I know some men love that position; I didn't know how to broach the subject." I nodded, my eyes never leaving hers.

"I'm here to listen, Bella. We can go as slow as you want, and we'll make sure it's perfect." I scooted down the bed, my gaze dropping to the spot between her legs. Softly, I traced the outside of her thigh, moving closer to her core.

"May I?" I whispered.

She nodded, her breath hitching in anticipation. I placed a tender kiss on the inside of her thigh and felt her shiver. My kisses grew in number and intensity, moving closer and closer to the place that had caused her discomfort in the past. She tensed involuntarily, perhaps expecting pain. I began to explore the area with the lightest of touches. I'm sure it was unlike anything she had ever felt before.

"Relax, Bella," I murmured against her skin. "Let me show you how good this can be." I gently parted her folds, and with my fingers, I touched the spot that had caused her so much discomfort in the past. She was still apprehensive, but as my movements grew bolder, her body relaxed.

Her eyes grew wide, and she gripped the bedsheets, her breath coming in short gasps as my skilled fingers worked their magic. I paused, looking up at her eyes, questioning. She nodded, unable to find the words to express the sensations I was evoking.

"You like that?" I whispered, a smile playing on my lips. She whimpered and nodded.

I took my time watching her reactions and making sure she was comfortable with every touch. I slid a finger inside her, moving it slowly. Bella's eyes fluttered closed, and she let out a moan of surprise as I continued to massage and pleasure the area with a gentle but firm touch. It was a sensation she had never experienced before, one that seemed to beckon her to let go of her fears and embrace the moment. I felt her vaginal muscles around my finger start to relax, and the pain she had always associated with this position began to melt away. Because there was no pain. How could he be so careless? No wonder she always asked me to be gentle.

"You're doing great," I whispered, a smile on my lips. I took my time watching her reactions and making sure she was comfortable with every touch. I leaned down, pressing a tender kiss to the nape of her neck, my breath hot and steady. She was very slick with arousal; that was the key here.

"You're okay?" I asked. She nodded, the trust in her eyes unmistakable as she looked back at me.

I took this as his cue, slowly pulling away my hand before positioning myself behind her. I was aroused. I pumped my cock a couple of times to spread the bead of moisture at the head before continuing. I was careful—so careful that my movements were calculated and deliberate. I slid into her; the feeling of fullness and connection was almost overwhelming.

The room was silent except for the sound of our breathing and the soft sighs escaping her lips as I began to move. I watched the way her body arched and quivered with each gentle thrust. Her eyes widened, and she gripped the bedsheets tighter. It was as if she were discovering a new side of herself, one that had been buried beneath layers of doubt and discomfort. My rhythm grew steadier, and the pleasure deepened.

"Does it still hurt?" I dare to murmur, my voice laced both with concern and desire.

Bella took a shaky breath; her eyes locked on mine. "No," she whispered, the word barely audible. "It's... it's different. It feels... amazing."

I leaned in closer; my hand found its way to her clitoral area, and my fingers played her like a finely tuned instrument. The sensations grew more intense, and I could feel her orgasm building and her body tightening around me. I whispered sweet nothings in her ear, my voice a gentle symphony of love and passion that matched the rhythm of my hips.

"I want to make you feel so good," I whispered, my eyes never leaving hers. "Tell me what you like, love."

Bella's breath hitched as I increased the pace, my other hand caressing her breasts and my thumb brushing over her hardened nipples. Her body responded to every touch.

"More," she breathed. "Like that."

I leaned in closer, my chest lightly pressing against her back. "You're so beautiful." I knew exactly what she liked and was giving it to her without hesitation. The feeling of my cock moving inside her and the way it filled her up, combined with the gentle stroking of her clitoral area, was almost too much to handle. I felt her orgasm approaching—a tight coil in her belly that threatened to snap at any moment.

Her hips began to move in sync with mine, pushing back to meet each thrust. The pleasure grew, building like a crescendo, until she could no longer hold back. "I'm... I'm going to..." she panted, her voice trembling with anticipation. I responded by driving deeper, my fingers moving faster, and his voice urging her on. "Come for me, Bella. Let go."

Her orgasm hit her like a tidal wave, crashing through every nerve ending in her body. She cried out, her eyes squeezed shut, as waves of pleasure washed over her. It was as if every cell in her body was alight with ecstasy. I watched her as she rode to the peak of her climax. I could feel her muscles contracting around me.

"Edward," she gasped, my name a plea on her lips. I leaned in closer, my teeth grazing her ear as he whispered, "You're mine." My words sent another tremor through her, and I swelled inside her, my release imminent. The feeling was intoxicating—a heady mix of power and surrender that made my heart race.

I thrust harder, the sound of our skin meeting echoing in the quiet room. Bella's moans grew louder, mixing with my grunts of pleasure. My hand never left her clitoral area, the steady rhythm of my touch sending her spiraling higher and higher. I could feel the tension in her body, and I'm sure she could sense the way I held back, waiting for her to reach that peak again. And when she did, I knew it was like nothing she had ever felt before. Her orgasm ripped through her, a white-hot burst of pleasure that left her boneless and panting.

"Oh God," she whispered, as my movements grew more erratic and my breathing ragged as I approached his own climax. "I'm... I'm..." I grunted, my voice strained with the effort of holding back.

I reached around her, my hand finding hers, our fingers intertwining as our bodies moved together. The connection was electric, a bond that went beyond the physical; we felt it resonate through every fiber of our being.

With one final, powerful thrust, I let go, burying myself deep inside her as I came. My warmth filled her, a sensation that sent her over the edge once more. Her muscles clenched around me, milking me for every last drop as she shuddered with the intensity of her release. The room spun, and the world outside was forgotten as we remained lost in the moment.

~DD~

RPOV:

I went to deliver dinner to Edward and Bella. With the tray balanced in my hands, I approached Bella's bedroom door. I rapped gently, but there was no response. Puzzled, I knocked again, this time a bit louder. Still, silence. What if something happened to them? My sense of protection got the better of me, and I cautiously opened the door.

What greeted my eyes was a scene that instantly made me blush crimson. Edward and Bella were entwined in an intimate embrace, their movements both passionate and mesmerizing. My initial shock quickly turned to amusement as I realized the true nature of their situation. There, on their rumpled bed, lay Edward and Bella, lost in the throes of passion.

With a chuckle, I hastily retreated from the room, deciding it would be most appropriate to leave them to their extracurricular activities. As I made my way downstairs, I couldn't help but grin at the memory of their amorous display. It was not the first time I "caught" Edward having sex. You'd think I knew better after being his nanny for so long.

About an hour later, I knocked on their door once more and announced my presence. To my surprise, Bella told me to come in. I tried not to linger on her face too much, but I couldn't help but notice her flushed cheeks and the slight disarray of her hair. She looked like she had received a bella scopata.

"Oh, Mrs. Biers," she exclaimed, "where are you waiting out there for so long?"

"We're so sorry! We didn't hear you knock."

"Don't worry, Tesoro." I couldn't resist teasing her gently. "Besides, my dear Bella, it seems you and Edward were a bit... distracted. I hope you don't mind that I witnessed your..." I left the thought unfinished.

"What do you mean?" Bella asked.

"I knocked earlier, about an hour ago, but I didn't receive a reply, and I got worried, so I opened the door." I admitted biting my lip.

Bella covered her face, clearly mortified. A wave of laughter spread through the room as Edward emerged from the bathroom, a sheepish grin on his face.

"Mrs. Biers," he said, "I am truly mortified. We need to come up with a code or something; this can't keep happening."

"I'm used to it, Figlio." I couldn't help but laugh along with them. In the end, the incident became an inside joke between us.

"What did you make?" Edward asked as he settled back into bed.

Bella, still embarrassed, buried her face in his neck and let out a laugh.

"Mushroom ravioli, but I added some spinach." Bella's eyes lit up. "That's my favorite! How did you know?"

"I had a hunch." I smiled.

The truth is, Mrs. Cope told me that's what Bella liked to eat the most. She also told me how to make Mr. Black's favorite dish.

I placed the tray on the bed and left the room. I finished cleaning up the kitchen and then went to bed. Edward was leaving tomorrow, and I wanted to make them a nice, hearty breakfast.

I can't wait for Monday so that we finally know what they're having.

It was late afternoon; Edward left a couple of hours ago. I've been trying to entertain Bella so that she doesn't think too much about him. Mr. Black is supposed to be here soon. Mrs. Cope was in the kitchen finishing dinner. I told her I would do it, but she insisted I stay with Bella. She arrived thirty minutes after Edward left. Bella had been crying, and Mrs. Cope wasn't amused.

"Bella, these lights are just not sparkling enough," I said, stepping back to examine the tree. She nodded, her eyes scanning the room, searching for the perfect solution.

"I guess I could get another pack of lights; one more should do the trick," Bella mentioned.

The scent of food filled the air as we worked, a comforting reminder of the holiday season. My hand paused as it reached for another ornament, and my gaze locked on a framed picture of the mantel we had yet to decorate. "Is that...?" I couldn't finish my sentence. The resemblance was uncanny. The baby boy in the photo had the same chocolate brown eyes and dimpled smile as James and Ephraim, Edward's twins. The room grew quieter, the only sound being the faint tinkle of ornaments as we both stared at the picture.

Bella followed my gaze, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Yes, that's Jacob," she said softly.

The air grew thick with tension as the realization hit me. The baby in the picture was now the man Edward's ex-wife had cheated with. The same man had the audacity to hit his own wife. I tried to keep my expression neutral, focusing on the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree instead of the storm of emotions brewing inside me.

"He looks just like..." I began, but my voice trailed off. "It's... unsettling." I mumbled.

"What was that?" Bella asked. "Oh, nothing, dear, just an old lady talking to herself." I tried to laugh it up.

The room felt smaller, and the air was heavier with the weight of the knowledge I just learned. I swallowed hard, willing myself to push aside the dark thoughts that threatened to overshadow the festive task at hand. "Let's just... focus on the decorations," I suggested, my voice sounding forced even to my own ears.

Bella nodded again, her eyes leaving the picture. She took a deep breath and turned away to focus on the task at hand. We continued to hang ornaments and lights, but the joy of the season had been momentarily marred by the weight of the deceit I'd just uncovered.

As we worked in silence, my mind raced with questions and accusations. How could Bella not see the resemblance? How could she live with a man who put his hands on her? Has she seen a picture of the twins? If so, has she noticed the resemblance? And what about Edward? Did he know? I assumed he was still in the dark, as nothing had been said or done.

I took a deep breath and tried to shake off the pang of sadness and the flare of anger that threatened to consume me. After all, it wasn't Bella's fault that her husband cheated on her and possibly had kids with another woman. Leah is a bitch! Yes, I know Edward cheated too, but what she has done goes deeper than that.

I needed to be certain before telling him the truth.

Thoughts on the chapter?

Will Mrs. Biers tell Edward whenever she confirms her suspicions, or will she keep quiet to protect them?