Here is the next chapter. Enjoy!

I don t own, and any mistakes are mine. It's late here, but it was now or never.

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Double Deceit

Chapter 20

Revelations and Surprises

I reluctantly packed a bag for the New Year's celebration on the reservation. Jacob and I, along with our parents, were on our way there. I was reluctant because Renata wasn't with me, she was with her husband in Italy, they went to visit her family. We arrived and got settled in their cabin.

Later that night we made some hot drinks and some food and everyone came down to the Blacks to catch up. Amidst the laughter and twinkling lights, I couldn't help but notice a familiar face.

"Leah?" I said, my voice trembling slightly.

She turned to face me, her eyes widening in surprise. "Bella?" she uttered, giving me a once over, her eyes lingered on my pregnant Belly for a second. I cradled it protectively and concentrated on her face, a mixture of emotions displayed across her features.

Jacob, who had witnessed our encounter from afar, approached us with a look of concern.

"Everything okay?" He asked as he stood behind me. Leah eyed us and huffed.

Emily and the other girls from the rez arrived and called her, she went to them.

"She's never liked me and I don't know why,"

"Just ignore her, you know how she is," he said, cradling my face.

He led me to an armchair and I sat. He went and looked for my blanket and brought it back to me along with a mug of hot chocolate, a cheese sandwich to dip in it and the book I'd brought. It's been a few minutes, I concentrated on enjoying my snack, but I couldn't.

They were now looking at me whilst whispering among themselves and giggling. What were we twelve? They've always been so cliquey, they've always treated me like an outsider, which I was, but they don't need to rub it in my face every chance they get.

I was very uncomfortable, so I got up and left my half-eaten food on the counter and made my way to the bedroom.

"Bella, are you okay?" Jacob asked as he followed me.

"I'm just tired," I lied trying to contain my tears.

"You want to take a nap?" I nodded.

"I'll go entertain until mom and dad come from the supermarket," he told me, I nodded.

I didn't have the desire to be a hostess today. He left me alone. I took off my dress and grabbed one of Edward's plain gray shirts I'd stolen and put it on. I wrapped the blanket over me and quickly fell asleep.

When I woke up to the smell of something delicious cooking. The whispers and giggles from earlier had turned into a cacophony of laughter and chatter. My stomach rumbled, and I realized it was almost dinner time. I freshened up and changed back into my sweater dress and boots, and slowly made my way out of the bedroom, and into the kitchen, where everyone was gathered around the large dining table. The doors to the balcony had been opened to fit extra chairs.

As I entered, Sarah noticed me "Bella," she said coldly. "Are you feeling better?" I nodded in acknowledgment and took a seat at the far end of the table, next to Jacob. His hand found mine under the table, giving it a gentle squeeze.

A few minutes later everyone started coming in and finding a seat. The last one to enter was Leah.

"Oh, what a surprise you're here!" Sarah said as she took the bottles of soda Leah brought.

"Where's Your husband...Dr. Cullen?" Sarah asked as she placed a steaming dish of stew in the center of the table. Dr. Cullen, did she mean Edward?

Leah looked at where Jacob and I were briefly before looking away. "Edward and I...We divorced," she replied nonchalantly.

My heart stopped. The room spun. Edward was her ex-husband? I knew she'd married in Seattle, but I never bothered to ask about the man.

"And your kids, where are they?" Billy asked.

"They are with Edward since I had them for Christmas," Leah replied, taking a seat.

"Oh, I see," Sarah said, placing a hand on Leah's shoulder. "Well, we're happy to have you with us tonight."

Speak for yourself! I thought.

I sat in shock. This revelation was unexpected, I wanted to know who his ex-wife was, but knowing it was her made my blood run cold. Leah fucking Clearwater was the woman who belittled him? Who treated him like shit? Anger flared inside me. I don't know the reason why she disliked me, but I found a reason to hate her. The dinner continued with everyone else seemingly interested by Leah's casual mention of her divorce. They gave her their sympathy and words of comfort. My mind raced with questions, but I kept my composure, sipping my water and forcing down mouthfuls of food.

After dinner we went back inside as it got too cold. Everyone scattered around the living area, I was in the kitchen helping clean up since I didn't help with dinner like I was supposed to. Everyone was minding their own business, although they'd broken into little groups of people. Leah and her friends were in the corner but in my line of vision. I ignored them for a while, but the whispers grew louder, and I felt their eyes on me like a heavy weight. I couldn't ignore it any longer. I slammed the fork I was washing on the sink, the sound echoing through the room All heads turned in my direction.

"What the fuck is your problem?" I snapped at Leah, unable to keep my cool anymore.

Her eyes narrowed at me and she stepped closer. "You know what my problem is, Bella," she said through gritted teeth. "You stole him from me."

"Stole him?" I scoffed, incredulous.

"You know exactly what I mean," she spat, stepping closer. "He was mine until you came along!" My eyes narrowed, the accusation burning through me, what the hell was she talking about?

"I didn't steal anyone, Leah," I retorted, "I don't understand what you mean." I rolled my eyes, this was silly, she never wanted to tell me the reason why she blatantly disliked me, but apparently, she finally wanted to talk, although she wasn't making any sense.

Jacob stepped in, his hand on my shoulder, trying to calm me down. "Let's not do this, Bella," he whispered.

"No, Jacob," I said, my voice firm. "I've had enough."

Leah smirked, folding her arms across her chest. "Oh, so now you want to defend yourself, Bella?"

"I didn't do anything to you!" I yelled, the words flying out of my mouth with the force of a tornado. Leah's smirk grew wider. "Oh, really?"

"Yes, really," I said, my voice shaking with restrained anger.

Leah's friends looked at each other nervously, unsure of how to respond to the tension building in the room. But Leah, she was unfazed. She took another step closer, her eyes boring into mine.

"You think you're so much better than us, don't you?" she said, her voice low and taunting. "Coming here with your fancy clothes, thinking you can just waltz in and take whatever you want."

My hands curled into fists at my sides, the fabric of my dress stretching taut over my knuckles. "I never asked for any of this!" I shot back, my voice rising to match hers.

"NO! You always belittled me and made me feel less, YOU made me feel like an outsider. It's not my fault my parents were so adamant on being friends with the Blacks!"

Jacob's grip tightened on my shoulder, but I shrugged him off. "Bella, please," he murmured, his eyes pleading.

But I was beyond caring about social graces. The whispers had become a chorus in my ears, each one a dagger to my heart. "You think you know me?" I spat at Leah. "You don't know shit!"

Her eyes glinted with malice. "Oh, I know plenty," she sneered. " I know you think you're too good for us."

"That's not true!" I exclaimed, my face flushing with anger. "You don't know anything about me or what I think!"

Leah took a step closer, her eyes full of spite. "Oh, but I do, Bella," she said, her voice dripping with venom.

"You think you can come here and take what's mine, but you can't," she continued, her voice getting louder with each word.

"What are you even talking about?" I shouted, my patience wearing thin.

Jacob, seeing the situation spiral out of control, stepped in front of me, his large frame blocking Leah from my view. "Leah, that's enough," he said firmly. "Why don't you go outside and cool off?"

Leah's eyes flashed with anger, but she didn't back down. "Or what, Jacob?" she challenged, taking a step closer to him. "You gonna make me?"

Jacob's jaw clenched, his patience wearing as thin, I recognized the signs. "Yes," he said firmly, placing a hand on her shoulder. "I'm going to make you." He steered her towards the door with surprising gentleness, given the tension in the room. "Let's go for a walk."

Leah's eyes searched mine over his shoulder, looking for a reaction. I didn't give her one. Instead, I turned to the sink, my hands shaking as I rinsed the last of the dishes. The sound of the water was soothing, but it couldn't drown out the ringing in my ears or the thump of my racing heart. I felt faint. The door slammed shut behind them, and the cabin was eerily quiet. The whispers had finally stopped.

LPOV:

Jacob's hand remained firm on my shoulder, guiding me through the crowded room, the whispers of our argument echoing in my ears. The cool evening air outside was a welcome reprieve from the stifling tension of the house.

"Fine," I said. "But this isn't over."

"Fuck, just shut up and walk!" He said harshly.

"What was that back there?" He demanded, his voice low and tightly controlled. "You almost blew it."

I felt the heat rise to my cheeks, not from embarrassment but anger. "What was I supposed to do?" I shot back. "Pretend like I don't know you like I do?"

Jacob's grip on my shoulder tightened briefly before he let go, his eyes searching the dark street for a quiet spot. "You know what's at stake," he said, his voice a low growl. "If they find out..."

I rolled my eyes, trying to keep the frustration from boiling over. "I know, I know," I said, my voice a mix of irritation and fear. "But I can't just lie to them like you can."

Jacob's jaw ticked, his eyes flashing in the dim streetlight. "It's not lying, Leah. It's survival." He took a deep breath, visibly trying to calm himself. "You know we can't risk anyone finding out about us."

"Survival?" I echoed, incredulous. "It's deceit, Jacob. And it's getting harder every day."

Jacob's hand reached for mine, his touch tentative. "I know," he said, his voice softer now. "But you promised. For us."

The mention of our promise sent a wave of guilt crashing over me. He was right; we had made a deal to keep our relationship a secret. The stakes were high, and the consequences could be dire.

"I'm sorry," I said, my voice barely a whisper. "But I can't keep living like this."

Jacob's hand froze in mid-air, hovering over my hand, before he let it drop to his side. He turned to face me, his eyes searching mine. "What do you mean?"

"I mean," I began, taking a step closer to him, "that I can't keep pretending we're just friends." My heart was racing, but I had to be firm. "I can't keep watching you with her, act like we're just casual acquaintances."

Jacob's eyes searched mine, a storm of emotions brewing behind them. He took a step back, his handsome features tightening. "What do you want from me, Leah?" His voice was a mix of frustration and desperation. "You know I can't leave her."

"I want you to keep your promise," I said, my voice steady despite the tumult of feelings threatening to spill over. "To us. To what we have."

Jacob looked away, his jaw clenched tight. I could see the internal battle playing out on his face. He was torn between his duty and his desire. The silence stretched between us. "I'm sorry," I said again, my voice cracking slightly.

"But I need this." I stepped closer to him, my hand reaching up to cup his cheek. His eyes snapped back to mine, and for a moment, I saw a flicker of the love we'd shared for so long. "Kiss me," I whispered.

Jacob's eyes searched mine for a long moment before he sighed heavily. He leaned in, and our lips met in a fierce, desperate kiss. It was like a spark had been lit between us, igniting the passion we'd been forced to keep hidden for so long. His arms wrapped around me, pulling me closer, and I could feel the tension in his body begin to melt away.

But the kiss was short-lived. He pulled back, his eyes filled with a mix of regret and longing. "I can't," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. "You know I can't."

"Why not?" I demanded, feeling the sting of rejection. "You said you loved me."

Jacob's eyes searched the night, avoiding mine. "I do love you, Leah," he said, his voice strained. "But this isn't just about us."

I stepped back, feeling the cold air rush into the space between us. "What is it about, then?" I challenged. "Because it sure as hell feels like it's about you and your perfect little life with her."

Jacob's eyes snapped to mine, a flash of anger lighting them up. "You know it's not that simple," he said through gritted teeth. "You know why we can't be together."

But I didn't care about the reasons anymore. The pain of our secret was eating me alive, and I needed something real to hold onto. "Is that all I am to you?" I asked, my voice trembling. "A dirty little secret?"

Jacob's eyes snapped back to mine, the anger replaced with something that looked a lot like fear. "No, Leah," he said, his voice earnest. "You're everything."

He took a step towards me, his hand reaching out again. I wanted to take it, to believe the sincerity in his voice, but the hurt was too fresh. "Everything?" I echoed. "Then why can't you just be with me?"

Jacob sighed, running a hand through his hair. "You know why," he said, his eyes pleading. "It's complicated."

I could feel the weight of his words, the truth of his situation bearing down on me. But I was tired of being the one to always understand, to always make the sacrifices. "Is it?" I challenged. "Or is it just convenient?"

Jacob's hand hovered in the air for a moment before he let it fall to his side, his eyes never leaving mine. "It's not about convenience," he said, his voice tight with restrained anger. "It's about protecting you, and me, and everything I've worked for."

"Protecting me?" I scoffed. "How is this protecting me? I'm the one who has to watch you with her, who has to live a lie every day."

Jacob's handsome face was a mask of frustration. "It's for the best," he said, his voice firm. "You know that."

But something in his tone, a subtle shift, made me pause. "What do you mean?" I asked, my heart suddenly racing. "What aren't you telling me?"

Jacob's eyes searched mine for a moment before he spoke. "Bella... she means something to me too."

The words hit me like a ton of bricks. I felt the wind knocked out of me, and suddenly the world around us grew fuzzy. "What?" I whispered, hoping I'd heard him wrong.

Jacob took a deep breath, his eyes never leaving mine. "I care about her," he said, his voice thick with guilt. "You know this Leah."

My mind raced, trying to process the revelation. Bella had always been the perfect girlfriend in everyone's eyes—beautiful, smart, and kind. I had always felt like the odd one out, the secret lover who didn't measure up. "What does that mean?" I managed to ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

Jacob's gaze was intense, searching my face for a reaction. "It means I'm trying to do what's right for everyone involved." He said, his voice firm but laced with sadness.

The reality of the situation hit me like a punch to the gut. Jacob didn't just feel obligated to Bella; he had feelings for her too. Real, genuine feelings that didn't just exist alongside his love for me, but somehow intertwined with it. The revelation was a knife twisting in my heart, but also a strange sort of relief. I had always suspected that there was more to his relationship with her than just a facade.

"You love her," I said, the words tasting bitter on my tongue.

Jacob's eyes searched mine, his expression a storm of guilt and pain. "In a way…It's complicated," he repeated.

Jacob didn't just feel duty-bound to Bella; there was genuine affection there, a bond that had been growing right under my nose. I felt the ground shift beneath me, the foundation of our love story cracking.

For a moment, I couldn't breathe, couldn't think. The night air grew colder, the stars above seeming to mock the warmth we'd shared just moments before.

"What are you saying?" I managed to get out, the words feeling foreign in my mouth.

Jacob's eyes searched mine, the regret etched deep in his features. "I'm saying that I care for her, Leah. I didn't mean for it to happen, but..."

The words hung in the air, unfinished, but the message was clear. My heart felt like it was shattering into a million pieces. "But what?" I prompted, my voice shaking.

Jacob's eyes searched mine, a silent apology. "I don't know," he said finally, his voice low and heavy. "I just know that I can't keep doing this to either of you, but I have to."

The reality of the situation sank in, cold and sharp. I had been a fool to think that our love could conquer all, that his feelings for Bella were just a means to an end. The pain was unbearable, a mix of anger, hurt, and betrayal.

Jacob looked at me with a mix of sadness and determination. "I never wanted to hurt you," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "But I can't ignore her, I need to do better, be better. I think she is going to leave me, Leah."

I had been living in a bubble of denial, thinking that his love for me was enough to overpower his obligations to Bella.

"Besides what happened between her and me was your fault, you made me angry that day, I drank a lot and took it out on Bella."

My eyes widened in shock. "What? What are you talking about?"

Jacob's gaze remained steady, though his voice was filled with pain. "You know how we fought that day," he said. "How you pushed me with your demands. I was so mad, angry. And when I saw Bella, when she didn't want to go with me to that dinner...I just... I don't know, I took it out on her."

The implication was clear. Our secret had been straining him, and it had bled into his actions towards Bella. I felt the world closing in around me, the gravity of the situation sinking in. "What are we going to do?" I asked, my voice small.

Jacob took a deep breath, his eyes never leaving mine. "I don't know," he admitted. "But I can't keep living like this. It's not fair to any of us."

The truth of his words settled in my chest like a heavy stone. He was right; our secret had been tearing us apart, wreaking havoc on our lives and those around us. But the thought of losing him was unbearable. "What does this mean for us?"

Jacob's gaze searched mine, his eyes filled with turmoil. "I don't know," he said, his voice raw. "But I can't keep lying to her, and I can't keep lying to myself."

Anger bubbled up inside me, threatening to spill over. "You don't get to decide that," I spat. "You don't get to just throw us away like we're nothing. I gave up things for you too, Jacob. And what about our children? They're growing without you, hell they're growing without Edward too, I've been avoiding him and not letting him see James and Ephraim. Plus, I can't hide them anymore, they're starting to look more and more like you with each passing day. People are going to notice."

Jacob's face tightened, the mention of our children hitting a nerve. "I know," he said, his voice strained. "But it's not just about us anymore. We have to think about them."

"Bella is expecting my children too,"

I rolled my eyes, "I don't need a fucking reminder! You promised she would never have your child and you slipped, you are an asshole Jacob. You couldn't keep it in your fucking pants! Do you like doing it with her? Weren't you paying that doctor to make her believe she was infertile?"

Jacob's face contorted in anger, his eyes flashing with a fury that I hadn't seen in a long time. "That's not fair, Leah," he said through clenched teeth. "You know it just happened."

I took a step back, my heart racing. "Fine," I said, my voice shaking. "But what happens now?"

"I don't know Leah. And I'm sorry but it was a mistake for you to come here."

Jacob's words were like a dagger in my heart. I felt the warmth of our love story crumbling to dust around me, leaving only the cold reality of our situation. "What do you mean?" I managed to ask, though my voice was shaking.

He took a step closer, his eyes pleading. "I mean we need to be careful," he said. "You can't just show up here, not like this."

"What, because it's inconvenient for you?" I spat back, the anger in my voice unmistakable. "What about me, Jacob? What about us?"

Jacob's eyes searched mine, a mix of guilt and sadness. "I know," he said, his voice tight. "But you have to understand, I can't just leave her."

Oh, here we go again!

Jacob took a step back, his handsome features etched with tension. "You don't get it," he said, his voice tight. "You can't just come here and demand that I choose."

"But that's exactly what you're doing to me," I countered, my voice rising. "You're asking me to keep hiding, to keep pretending, while you have your perfect life with her."

Jacob's eyes searched mine, the conflict in his gaze stark. "It's not like that," he insisted, though the words sounded hollow even to my own ears. "I'm just trying to do what's right."

But was he? Or was he just trying to keep his perfect life intact while having me on the side? The doubt gnawed at me, turning the love I had for him into a festering wound. "What's right for you," I said, the bitterness seeping into my voice. "But what about me? What about James and Ephraim?"

Jacob flinched at the mention of our sons. "I know," he said, his voice low and pained. "But I can't just abandon her. She's carrying my daughters."

The words hit me like a punch in the gut. Daughters. With Bella. The reality of the situation crashed down on me like a wave, cold and unforgiving. "But you can abandon us?" I whispered, the anger and hurt swirling inside me.

Jacob's eyes searched mine, filled with a desperation that made my stomach twist. "It's not like that, Leah," he said, reaching for my hand again. "You know it's not."

But the touch only served to remind me of the countless times he'd held my hand in secret, the stolen moments that now felt like a cruel joke. I stepped back, pulling my hand away. "Isn't it?" I asked, my voice cold. "You are having children with her, Jacob. What does that make us?"

Jacob looked away, his jaw tight. "I don't know," he murmured. "But I never meant for it to be like this."

"Look I have to go back, please don't come into the house again, at least not tonight, please"

Jacob's eyes searched mine, a silent plea that I understood all too well. I nodded, he won this round, but I wasn't giving up. The wind picked up, rustling my hair around my face as I watched him walk away.

"You will pay, I swear you will."

BPOV:

"Why did it take so long?"

"I was ripping her a new one," he told me.

"Okay…"

"She's not going to bother you anymore, Bella," Jacob said.

I was about to get ready for bed, "could you go outside while I prepare for bed?"

"I'm your husband, it's nothing I haven't seen before."

"Jacob, please," I whined.

"Fine!"

"I'll be back in fifteen minutes whether you're ready or not, I'm tired," He huffed.

Exactly fifteen minutes later he returned to the room and went to get ready. I was getting comfortable on the bed when he came out of the bathroom. I pointed to the couch and he rolled his eyes. I left a blanket and extra pillow at the end of the sofa for him. It was risky, but I really don't care. I wasn't going to let him sleep beside me even if it was to keep up with appearances.

"It's fine, Bella, just go to sleep."

The frigid air of the reservation hung heavy, thick with the scent of pine needles and anticipation. It was New Year's Eve, and despite the chill, a bonfire crackled in the center of the clearing, casting flickering shadows on the laughing faces gathered around it. It was supposed to rain, but everyone was making the most of it before it rained.

Jacob's hand brushed mine, his touch light and fleeting, as though he were afraid to linger. We were going through the motions, smiles pasted on, forced pleasantries exchanged. My parents were engrossed in conversation with Billy. Their voices blended with the crackling fire, the rhythmic thud of drums, and the laughter of those around us. We sat across from each other, a silent gulf separating us. My mother, bless her heart, had insisted we sit together, her hand resting reassuringly on mine. Jacob, as always, was a picture of stoic calm, his gaze fixed on the flames. But my focus was drawn to Jacob, his silhouette a dark figure against the flames. He seemed distant, lost in his own thoughts.

We had an amicable dinner, Leah stayed the hell away from me and I was able to enjoy the last day of the year in peace. We were leaving tomorrow and I couldn't be happier.

"Two more minutes till midnight," my Dad announced, his voice booming over the chatter. As the clock ticked down to midnight, the air vibrated with a collective energy. Billy Black started a chant, calling upon the spirits for a prosperous new year. Jacob joined in, his voice deep and resonant, a familiar melody.

The countdown began, and with each number, a ripple of anticipation pulsed through the crowd. 'Ten... nine... eight...'

I watched as the clock ticked closer to the new year. I wished for things to be different. I wished to be with Edward. As the clock struck midnight, mom and I stood, arms intertwined, the familiar gesture comforting.

"Happy new year baby girl," dad said as he hugged me and kissed my temple.

"Happy new year dad, love you,"

Six weeks later: Valentine's Day

Bella's POV:

The crisp, white tablecloth felt stiff against my fingers as I sat across from Jacob. It was Valentine's Day, and the small, intimate cafe was filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the murmur of conversations laced with affection. It was a stark contrast to the silence that had settled between us, a silence as thick and heavy as the air in our strained marriage. Ever since I returned home and all through the holidays Jacob has been doing everything in his power to win me back. He'd invited me to a Valentine's Day brunch, a gesture that surprised me given the icy distance that had settled between us. His request took me by surprise because I was expecting him to ask me to have dinner, not go out in the middle of the day. He said he had to go out on a quick trip and that he would be back tomorrow before the end of the work day.

"Happy Valentine's Day, Bella," he said, a hesitant smile playing on his lips as he pushed a vase with six pink roses across the table. They were beautiful, their velvety petals a perfect shade of blush.

I forced a smile, the bouquet feeling like a hollow attempt at reconciliation. "They're lovely," I said, my voice flat. "Thank you." They used to be his love language. Now, they felt like a feeble attempt to bridge the gulf that separated us.

Next to the flowers sat a box, its familiar crimson wrapping paper betraying its contents: a box of my favorite chocolates. Jacob knew how much I loved them, how every bite brought back memories of our early days, when love was a sweet, intoxicating rush. Now, it felt like a bittersweet reminder of what we'd lost.

"I wanted to get you something special," Jacob said, his voice tinged with a hope that I couldn't decipher. He was trying, I knew that. He'd been trying for weeks, but the weight of what happened between us was too heavy to carry, too heavy to even attempt to alleviate. I don't know if I was going to be strong enough to carry it.

I ran my fingers over the soft leather of the wallet he'd given me, a perfect match to the purse his parents gifted me for Christmas.

"I thought you might like it," Jacob said, a nervous laugh escaping his lips. He'd always been charming, his smile disarming, but now, it felt like a facade, a flimsy attempt to mask the distance that had settled between us because of his actions.

"It's lovely, Jacob," I said, forcing a smile. "Thank you."

"I know we haven't been ourselves lately," Jacob started, gesturing towards the untouched food in front of him. "But I... I wanted us to try."

I looked at him, the familiar ache in my chest a dull, throbbing sensation. We had been trying, hadn't we? For weeks, we'd been navigating the treacherous waters of our fractured relationship, the weight of unspoken resentment and unfulfilled expectations pulling us further apart.

"It's hard," I whispered, my voice tight with unshed tears.

He nodded, "It's hard to feel like we're on the same page anymore. We haven't even talked about the twins." He shifted uncomfortably in his chair, his gaze dropping to the table.

"I know. I know I've been distant." He reached for my hand, his touch hesitant. "It's just... I'm scared, Bella. Believe it or not, I'm scared of failing you, of failing them. I'm scared of failing everyone. We have been trying so hard to keep the company afloat, and it's been good, but I have a feeling that you're going to walk away in December no matter what I do."

Bingo!

The conversation faltered, our eyes meeting briefly before drifting away. The silence stretched, punctuated only by the clinking of cutlery and the soft chatter of other patrons.

He reached across the table, his hand hovering inches from mine. "Bella, I'm sorry." The apology felt hollow, a script recited from a playbook of reconciliation that had long lost its meaning. It was an apology for the fights, the silent nights, the unspoken words. But it wasn't enough.

"For what, Jacob?" I asked, my voice betraying the tremor in my heart.

"For everything. For being so distant, for hurting you, and for not being the husband you deserve."

"Jake, we've had this conversation before, we're going around in circles," He looked at me, his eyes pleading, his face etched with vulnerability.

"Jacob," I sighed, the words heavy on my tongue.

"I've had a lot of time to think and I've come to the conclusion that It's not just about the fact that you physically assaulted me, it's a combination of the arguments, about the distance, the silence, the feeling of… of being alone, even when we're together." He winced, his eyes downcast.

"Is that how you feel?" I nodded.

Jacob took a big breath and exhaled slowly, "I just... I don't know what to say." He said, his voice cracking. I stared at the rose in my hand, its petals soft and velvety against my skin. The weight of it all threatened to suffocate me.

"Maybe we just need time," Jacob added, his voice a mere whisper. "Time to heal, time to rediscover ourselves, time to find our way back to each other."

"Isn't that what we have been doing?" I said, he looked up, a glimmer of hope flickering in his eyes.

"Bella, we're not giving up. We can't. The company depends on it," he pressed.

"I know Jacob! I'm trying too, but Rome wasn't built in a day, you can't expect me to bounce back as if nothing has happened."

"I know, Bella, I'm sorry. Can we just finish eating? I really don't want to keep discussing this here."

The silence settled again, Jacob and I finished eating and then we went our separate ways. I went back home to complete my six-week report that was needed for the board meeting on Wednesday. I know it's Sunday, but I wanted to get it out of the way.

The scent of roses, a subtle but intoxicating fragrance, filled the air as I finished applying my lipstick. A soft, nervous flutter in my stomach mirrored the shaking of my hand as I held the elegant, silver box containing Edward's Valentine's Day gift. Tonight, Edward was taking me out for a special date, and I couldn't wait to see what he had planned.

The doorbell rang, interrupting my thoughts. I took a deep breath, adjusted my dress, and headed towards the door. I threw it open to find Edward standing there, his green eyes gleaming with an intensity that always made my heart skip a didn't have security cameras anymore. We were on the installation list of a new company, they'd ordered the cameras, but until they arrived they couldn't service us.

"You look beautiful, Bella," he murmured, his voice deep and husky. He held out a crimson silk tie, a smile playing on his lips. "Blindfold?"

I laughed, feeling a thrill of anticipation. "Only if you promise it's worth it," I teased, taking the tie and letting him tie it around my eyes. I felt his hands on my waist as he led me down the steps, my heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

His strong grip on my hand felt reassuring as he guided me into the car, and the familiar rumble of the engine filled the silence.

The drive, however, was unusually long, and I couldn't help but wonder where he was taking me. I had a feeling it was somewhere special, somewhere he'd planned meticulously. Edward's thoughtfulness never ceased to amaze me.

He finally stopped the car, and I heard the sound of gravel crunching beneath the tires. Edward helped me out, guiding me towards an unknown destination. His hand felt warm and reassuring against my back, urging me forward.

He led me down a short, winding path, the crisp night air brushing against my skin. Then, he gently removed the blindfold.

My breath hitched.

Before me stood a beautiful cabin, nestled on a hillside overlooking a sprawling forest and city below. The house looked like it had sprung straight out of a fairytale, its wooden beams glowing with warmth and a sense of timeless serenity. Large windows offered glimpses of the breathtaking landscape, a panorama of rolling hills and twinkling lights that seemed to stretch out forever.

"Edward… this is incredible," I whispered, my voice choked with emotion. This was the cabin, the home I had fallen in love with the first time I saw it.

"Surprise!" He grinned, pulling me into a tight embrace. "It's finally ours,"

He led me inside, where the air was filled with the aroma of flowers. The cabin was filled with the soft glow of candlelight, casting dancing shadows on the rough-hewn wooden walls.

"I've got something special for you," Edward said, leading me to a low table in the living room that was set for two. He gestured towards a steaming platter, a feast of beautifully arranged dishes I recognized from my favorite restaurant, Bella Italia.

So this is why Renata left early today.

We dined by candlelight, sharing laughter and quiet moments of intimacy. It was as if time had stopped, leaving only the two of us in this idyllic haven.

After dinner, I reached into my purse and carefully retrieved the gift box. "Edward, this is for you," I said, watching his eyes widen with surprise as he took the box.

Inside, nestled on a bed of velvet, was a luxurious Dior watch, a gift that reflected his elegance and timeless style. As he slipped it onto his wrist, I felt a surge of joy.

"Bella, it's perfect," he murmured, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. Then, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a beautiful silver chain. It was a delicate necklace, adorned with a single pink stone that shimmered in the candlelight.

"This is for you, my love," he said, his gaze soft and tender. I noticed the letter 'E', the initial of our twin daughters, etched in the center of the stone.

"Edward… I love it," I whispered, my eyes welling up with tears. As he gently placed the necklace around my neck, I felt a wave of emotion wash over me – the love, the anticipation, the joy of becoming a mother.

"There's one more surprise," Edward said, taking my hand and leading me down the hallway. He covered my eyes with his hands, his fingers warm against my skin.

Then, he led me into a spacious room, and with a flourish, removed his hand.

We were in the nursery. It was beautifully decorated for our twin daughters. It was the most enchanting sight I had ever laid my eyes upon. The walls were painted a soft blue, accented with a rainbow that stretched across the center wall. In the corner was a cozy rocking chair, with a cushion adorned with an embroidered letter 'E'.

There were changing tables, a plush rug, and two beautiful cribs, each one thoughtfully decorated with a soft blanket and a stuffed rainbow pillow. A bookcase stood against one wall, and a toy chest sat empty on the other, waiting to be filled with cherished memories.

It was absolutely perfect, a dream come true. "How did you know?" I asked, amazed.

"I'll give you one guess," he smiled. "Renata" I guessed correctly. "She told me what you wanted, I made it happen."

I turned to Edward, my eyes shining with tears, and threw my arms around him, burying my face in his chest. "This is amazing, Edward," I whispered, feeling a wave of love and gratitude wash over me. "Thank you." Tears of joy welled up in my eyes. His expression was one of pure love and adoration.

"It's beautiful," I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion. It was absolutely perfect, a dream come true.

"I love you, Bella," he murmured, his voice filled with tenderness. "And I can't wait to share this journey with you and our little girls."

I couldn't help but be swept away by his words. Edward's love for me and our children was so profound that it overwhelmed me. I reached up and kissed him tenderly, pouring all my love into that kiss.

"It's beautiful," I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion. It was absolutely perfect, a dream come true.

Edward smiled down at me, his eyes shimmering with love. "You deserve it, my Bella."

EPOV

We stood there for a long moment, lost in each other's embrace. I led her back into the main living area, I grabbed her waist and swayed her body in a slow dance to the rhythm of the song I hummed in her ear. Bella smiled and giggled as she moved with me. I couldn't help but feel a swell of desire for her. Her beauty had always been captivating, but now, with the soft glow of the candles casting shadows on her skin and the weight of our unborn daughters a testament to our love, she was absolutely radiant I closed the space between our bodies, pulling her close. She giggled again, feigning protest, but her eyes sparkled with the same need that I felt.

Our kiss was slow and deliberate. Her lips parted to let me in, and our tongues met in a gentle embrace that sent a shiver down my spine. I tasted the sweetness of her mouth, a flavor that had become as familiar to me as my own breath.

My hands slid up her back, feeling the soft fabric of her dress give way to the warmth of her skin. She leaned into me, her belly pressing against me, a reminder of the lives growing inside her. It filled me with a love so fierce it threatened to consume me. Bella's hands found their way to my chest, her fingers playing with the buttons of my shirt. She undid them one by one, her eyes never leaving mine until the fabric fell open. Her palms skimmed over my bare skin, sending a rush of heat through my body. I groaned in anticipation.

Our kiss grew more urgent as I moved us to the dining room and lifted her onto the table, her legs wrapping around my waist as she pulled me closer. The smoothness of the wood was cool against her skin, a stark contrast to the heat between us.

Her dress slid up, revealing the soft curves of her thighs. I kissed my way along them, feeling her tremble beneath my touch. Bella's hands tangled in my hair, guiding me where she wanted me to go. I took my time, savoring every inch of her, her sighs and gasps echoing in the quiet room. Soon enough, she was bare under me, the necklace I'd just gifted her the only thing left on her skin.

As I reached the apex of her thighs, she tensed for a moment before relaxing into my touch. I felt the warmth of her arousal and knew she was ready. I kissed her deeply, our bodies moving in sync as I entered her. She was tight, and it took every ounce of control not to go too fast, too hard. Our eyes locked, and I saw the love and trust in hers. I wanted to make this moment perfect for her.

The table creaked gently beneath us as we found our rhythm, the sound mingling with the soft whispers of our breath. Bella's nails dug into my back, leaving faint trails of pleasure-pain that only served to heighten my desire. I moved with care, my hips rocking into hers, filling her completely with every stroke. She arched her back, her breasts rising and falling with each breath, and the sight was almost too much to bear.

Her eyes fluttered shut, and she let out a soft moan that was music to my ears. I reached up to cup her face, tilting it back so I could kiss her neck, her jaw, her parted lips once more. Our hearts pounded in unison, a drumbeat of passion that grew louder with every passing second.

"Oh, Edward," she whispered, her voice a sultry purr that sent a bolt of electricity straight to my core. "You feel so good."

"And you, Bella," I murmured against her neck, feeling her pulse quicken under my lips. "You're so beautiful, so perfect."

Her hands roamed over my shoulders, down my arms, urging me closer as our bodies moved in perfect harmony. The moonlight danced across her skin, creating a mesmerizing pattern of light and shadow that made it impossible to look away.

"More," she breathed, her voice a sweet ache that sent my blood racing. "I need more of you."

Obliging her, I pushed deeper, feeling her tighten around me. I kissed her again, hard and demanding, our teeth clashing as we devoured each other. Our breaths melded together, creating a symphony of desire that filled the room.

"Harder," she panted, her voice a desperate plea that spurred me on. I complied, increasing the tempo of my thrusts, feeling the tension coil within her. She met every movement with a moan, her nails digging deeper into my back.

"Bella," I growled, my own need spiraling out of control. Her eyes snapped open, meeting mine with a wild intensity that was both thrilling and terrifying. "I love you," I said, the words a declaration and a promise.

Her response was a gasp, a soft whine that grew in volume as our passion grew wilder. "I love you, too," she murmured, her voice strained with pleasure. Her legs tightened around me, pulling me in deeper. The table beneath us was now a silent witness to our love, groaning with every powerful thrust.

I felt her walls tighten around me, a signal of her impending climax. "Almost," she whispered, her voice breathless. I could feel the heat building within her, the pressure of her body begging for release. I quickened my pace, the sound of our skin slapping together joining the symphony of our love.

"Yes, yes," she chanted, her eyes fluttering closed as she threw her head back, exposing the delicate line of her neck. I took the opportunity to kiss and nibble along the column of her throat, feeling her pulse race beneath my lips. She was so close, and the knowledge was a heady aphrodisiac that had me fighting to hold back my own release.

"Look at me," I demanded, my voice thick with desire. Her eyes snapped open, the pupils dilated with passion. I watched as she stared into the depths of my soul, her love and need reflected back at me. The intensity of her gaze was almost too much to handle, but I held it, willing her to let go.

Her breath hitched, and I knew she was on the edge. I slammed into her one last time, and she shattered around me, her body convulsing with the force of her orgasm. Her nails scored down my back, leaving a trail of fire that only served to fuel my own need. Her cries filled the room, a sweet symphony that sent me hurtling over the precipice.

I groaned, my own release crashing over me like a tidal wave, my body trembling with the intensity of it. We clung to each other, lost in the storm of pleasure, our hearts beating as one. The world outside ceased to exist as we rode the waves of ecstasy, our bodies entwined on the table that now bore the marks of our passion.

Bella lay beneath me, her chest heaving, her eyes closed in satisfaction. Her skin was flushed and glowing with a sheen of sweat, and her hair was a wild mess around her face. I gently kissed her neck, feeling the rapid pulse beneath my lips. She hummed contentedly, her hands running over my back in slow, lazy circles. Her eyes fluttered open, and she offered me a sleepy smile. "Happy Valentine's Day," she murmured, her voice thick with satisfaction.

I chuckled, brushing a stray lock of hair from her forehead. "Indeed, it is," I replied, leaning in to kiss her softly. Our lips met in a gentle, lingering kiss that seemed to speak of a thousand unspoken words. We lay there for a while, just basking in the afterglow, our breaths slowly returning to normal. "Are you okay?" I whispered, my eyes searching hers for any sign of discomfort. She nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "I'm more than okay," she assured me, placing her hand over her belly. "I just felt... so alive."

The air was still thick with the scent of our love, and the candles cast a warm, flickering light across the room, painting us in a soft, romantic glow. Our bodies were sticky with sweat, and I felt the urge to clean up, but the comfort of her warmth was too tempting to leave. Gently, I slid off the table, supporting Bella as she sat up. She took a deep breath, her hand instinctively moving to cradle her belly. The sight of her doing so never failed to fill me with a profound sense of protectiveness. I wrapped my arms around her from behind, resting my chin on her shoulder.

"Let's go take a shower," I suggested, planting a tender kiss on her neck. She leaned back into me, her head tilting to give me better access. "Mm, that sounds heavenly," she agreed, a contented sigh escaping her lips.

We padded across the hardwood floor to the en suite bathroom, the coolness of the tiles a welcome relief against our overheated skin. I turned on the shower, the sound of the water echoing off the marble walls. Bella stepped under the warm spray, closing her eyes and letting the water cascade over her. I followed, wrapping my arms around her waist, her rounded belly pressing against my stomach. The water washed away the evidence of our passion, carrying with it any lingering tension or fear. We took our time, luxuriating in the sensation of the water against our skin. I washed her hair, massaging her scalp gently, and she leaned into me with a sigh. The warm water soothed my muscles, and the gentle touch of her hands on my back was like a balm to my soul.

Once we were clean, we stepped out of the shower and wrapped ourselves in the plush towels. We walked back into the room, the floor cool under our feet. The makeshift bed was a simple mattress on the floor, surrounded by a sea of pillows and blankets. It was the only piece of furniture in the room, a stark reminder that our house was still a work in progress. But tonight, it was more than enough…

Wednesday, February 17th, 2024.

As the clock ticked down to the trimestral board meeting of STI (Swan Technologies Inc.), the atmosphere in the meeting room crackled with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. My parents and The Blacks chatted amicably, their voices a quiet hum against the sleek, corporate backdrop.

I arrived punctually, as I took my seat to the left by the head of the table, I couldn't help but notice Jacob's absence. He was scheduled to present his report on the company's financial performance, a crucial agenda item. Where was he?

A ripple of commotion ran through the room as Angela, head company lawyer and close friend, called the meeting to order. "Good morning, everyone," she began, her voice crisp and professional. "Please open the files on the desks in front of you."

As the leather-bound folders were opened, a collective gasp filled the air.

In that instant, my heart sank. A cold dread settled in my stomach. My gaze fell to the empty chair beside me, where Jacob should have been.

"What the hell is this?!" Sarah exclaimed.

Just then, my phone rang, shattering the silence that followed her question. It was an unknown number, but I answered anyway.

"Mrs. Black?"

"Yes, this is she,"

"We are calling from Seattle Memorial Hospital, in regards of your husband Mr. Jacob Black."

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