AN: Hello, long time no see. Sorry for the delay. These last few months have been busy and my muse decided to disappear. Just recently, it popped back up and I've been writing frantically.

Anyway, thanks for reading.

And to my pre-readers, Brina and May, who always, always got my back and willing to get their feedback to me so quickly. They rock!

Chapter Eighteen

-Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner-

Seeing Rose outside my hotel room in Vegas shocks my system so much that I stare at her in a daze. Is she real, or is my pregnancy causing me to hallucinate? As my brain catches up, my heart pounds with such happiness that it feels like it might burst. I scream and jump up and down, wrapping my arms around her. Alice and Irina, alerted by the noise, run inside from the balcony. When they find me, I'm crying and clutching Rose tightly. My emotions are all over the place lately, a mix of joy, stress, and everything in between. I'm a complete mess.

I can't let her go or even form a coherent sentence. "What…?"

"Sssh," she murmurs, holding me just as fiercely.

We stand there for a few more seconds. Once I regain my bearings, I break away, quickly wiping the tears from my face.

"How did you know?" I ask, though I already know the answer.

We exchange a smile and both say, "Edward."

"That devious little so-and-so. He never said anything about inviting you," I say, realizing Rose is still awkwardly standing in the hallway. "Oh, shoot. I'm being so rude. Please, come in." I usher her inside, grabbing her duffel bag. "You remember Alice, right?"

Rose nods tersely. "Hey, Al."

Alice smiles politely but keeps her distance. "Hello, Rosalie. It's been a while. How are you?"

"Good, busy with Em and the kids, but good."

Ignoring the frostiness, I gesture toward Irina. "And this is…"

Rose's eyes widen, and she stumbles over her own feet to shake Irina's hand. "Oh my God, you're Irina White. Your husband is Laurent White."

Irina's head jerks back in surprise, and she gingerly shakes Rose's hand. "Yeah. How did you…?"

Rose flushes, which astounds me. I've never seen her so shy. "Well, unlike Bella here, I'm a huge football fan," she explains, "and I always see you in the stands, looking fabulous." Irina grins, but Rose can't stop gushing, her voice higher and faster. "And don't even get me started on how incredible your husband is—I mean, he plays the same position my husband did in high school. I'm kind of obsessed with Laurent White."

Irina laughs. "Well, you can just call him 'Laurent.'"

Rose hesitates but nods solemnly.

Irina continues, "You know, not too many people care about offensive players. It's usually the quarterback and tight ends that get all the glory."

Rose scoffs. "Please, I'm not the first to tell you how amazing your husband is. Last year, the way he protected our Edward—absolute chef's kiss."

Irina instantly finds a new best friend and hooks her arm around Rose. "You must be beat. Let's get you a drink."

"Oh, I would love one," Rose says with an appreciative groan.

They head towards the wet bar, and as happy as I am to have Rose here, my brother's absence feels even more glaring, making me sad. He's going to be an uncle, and it seems like he doesn't care or won't be in my little nugget's life.

Alice slides up beside me and gently checks my shoulder. "This is a nice surprise," she says.

"You're okay with this, right?" I ask, suddenly aware of the dynamics.

"Why wouldn't I be?" Alice asks back.

"Well, you know, you and Rose haven't been that…close lately," I say, trailing off.

"Oh, that," Alice says, remembering their blow-up last Thanksgiving over politics. Now, she seems at ease. "I figured if Obama and Bush can come together, so can we."

I'm still skeptical and give her the side-eye. "You sure?"

Alice laughs and rolls her eyes. "Yes, I'm sure." She swats my butt. "You worry too much."

Groaning, I hang my head and close the door. "Ugh, I know. I'm such a loser."

We make it to Spago on time, and to no one's surprise, the reservation is for a party of four. Once seated, I get a glass of lemon water and a virgin strawberry daiquiri. My friends want to support me by not drinking, but I insist, telling them, "Let me live vicariously through you."

It helps to have one sober person in the group to keep everyone else safe. The girls are easily convinced, and after a few drinks, the conversation turns interesting and truthful. Rose tells us how Edward called her a few days ago, asking her to come to Vegas, covering all expenses, but made it clear my brother wasn't invited. I smile at the thought of how that went over.

"I told him I was going whether he liked it or not. He threw a fit and refused to watch Sophia and Jackson. Your mom has them now, and I suspect he's fishing and sulking. Whatever. I don't care. I never do anything for me anymore. I deserve a girl's weekend, damn it!"

"Here, here!" We all salute her and clink our drinks together.

The server takes our order, and we start planning the evening—whether to see a show or do some shopping. Rose slumps into me, her eyes glazed.

"Hi," she says.

"Hi." I wrap my arm around her. "I'm so glad you're here, sissy."

She frowns. "How are you?"

I smile weakly, trying to put on a brave face. "I'm okay."

"Liar," Rose says. I shrug, unable to maintain the pretense.

"It's whatever," I lie again, but the whole table sees right through me. The truth is, before Edward and I became a couple, Emmett and I had a great relationship. Now, it's radio silence. He even blocked me on Facebook—who does that?

"You know," Rose shakes her head with disappointment, "I keep telling him he's going to regret it."

I don't want to ruin the evening by complaining about Emmett, but it kills me to be shut out by him. My frustration comes through with a long, exhausted groan. "This is so silly. We're all grown adults here."

Rose snorts and gestures between me and her. "We may be."

She's trying to make light of the situation, and I appreciate it, but I don't want to lose Em.

"He loves you," Rose reads me like a book.

"Ha, right?" I say, mixing anger and sadness. "He has a crappy way of showing it."

"Do you want my advice?" Rose asks.

I nod, desperate to mend my relationship with Emmett.

"Invite him out to dinner with you and Edward. Show him that you're willing to make an effort," Rose suggests empathetically. "And be patient. Don't force a happy resolve. Give him time to process his emotions and be open to listening to his side of the story."

"What's his side of the story?" I bark. Rose narrows her eyes but smirks. I take a deep breath and ask more gently, "What has he told you?"

It must be bad because Rose shakes her head. "It doesn't matter."

"You need to tell me now, so I have time to process it and not explode on him if or when he tells me himself," I insist.

Rose nods. "Em thinks you're stealing his best friend." Alice and Irina, who had been talking to each other, now lean in, offering their support.

"'Bella was always hanging around us and this is her way of getting in between us for good,'" Rose mimics him perfectly, deepening her voice and copying his mannerisms.

My heart sinks. "That's not true."

"Of course, it's not true, but it's how Emmett sees it," Rose responds. "Once he gets an idea in his head, he's too damn stubborn to let it go."

"Hmm," Irina hums loudly, drawing the table's attention. "Your brother sounds like an asshole."

I chuckle. "Yeah."

Though unaffected, Rose responds, "He doesn't always act this way."

Alice, who has met my brother only a few times, agrees. "It doesn't make sense. Edward's a great guy. I would think Emmett would be supportive of Bella—considering her trail of losers."

I choke on my drink and swat at Alice. "Thanks, brat."

She grins.

"If it were any other guy," Rose says, letting it hang there.

"Aren't Edward and he childhood best friends?" Irina asks. The whole table nods. "I can see him being freaked out, but this continued attitude is uncalled for. Shit happens—and he can't be blind to how much Edward loves Bella."

Rose adds, "I think Em's realizing how far back Edward's feelings for Bella go, and to him, it seems like he's been duped or lied to."

I shake my head, suddenly annoyed. "Yeah, well, he needs to get over it."

"You're right, he does. Let's stop talking about it," Rose says, raising her hand to call the server over. "We're on vacation, and I don't want us to spend all our time on him."

After dinner, we head to the Venetian and indulge in a little gambling. Rose and Irina love playing the tables, especially Craps, but Alice and I prefer the penny and nickel slots. I play for an hour before cashing out when I'm up thirty dollars. It's not a huge jackpot, but it lets me play a long time without losing money.

I sniff the crisp ten-dollar bills and wave them in front of Alice's face. "Winner, winner, chicken dinner."

Alice laughs, nudging me. "With those spoils, you can buy dinner at the MGM buffet."

"In my book, that's a win," I reply with a grin.

We have fun and share laughs once we're past the Emmett talk. Rose and Irina dominate every table, cashing out with hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Naturally, they want to shop. We agree to walk the strip a bit before heading back to the Bellagio, and that's where my night takes a downturn.

I should have expected the onslaught of billboards and digital screens promoting tomorrow's game. It's a huge deal here. Was I blissfully unaware? Maybe. Or perhaps I saw my obsession with him as unique.

Everywhere I look, Edward's face taunts me. As the Seahawk's quarterback, he's larger than life, staring down with those intense green eyes. His wayward bronze hair, that perfect smile, and chiseled jawline send me spiraling.

The boy I loved in Forks is adored by millions now. He isn't just mine anymore—he's a star, a sensation. And here I am, trying to keep my jealousy at bay while the city screams his name.

Pride and jealousy mix within me. Pride because, despite everything, he chose me. Jealousy because I can't ignore all the eyes on him, all the people wanting his attention. It makes the distance between us feel insurmountable.

My carefree mood vanishes, replaced by heartache. Shopping in luxurious stores loses its charm, and I drag my feet, forcing a smile. By the time we enter Dolce and Gabbana, I'm sulking, unable to tear myself away from my phone. I scroll through Edward's Instagram, fighting the urge to text him. He's busy, I remind myself. But seeing his face everywhere makes it hard to ignore my longing.

Finally, I give in, breaking my rule: I keep seeing your face everywhere, and it just makes me miss you more. I need to see you. I hit send, my heart pounding.

The girls and I return to our hotel room after midnight, arms loaded with shopping bags, toes aching from a night in heels. The city lights glow warmly outside the window, casting a golden hue over the mess of clothes and bags strewn everywhere.

I collapse on the bed, kicking off my heels. "I haven't walked this much since Disneyland," I groan, rubbing my feet.

Alice flops down beside me, her eyes sparkling. "You were so distracted tonight. What's up? Missing someone?"

I blush, my gaze dropping to my hands. "Maybe," I whisper.

Of course, I don't tell her that I texted Edward, and I definitely keep quiet about the panic gnawing at me because he hasn't texted back.

Irina hands me a ginger ale, teasing, "You've got it bad, girl."

I sigh, sinking back into the cushions. "I know."

Rose chimes in, "But they've been in love since forever."

Irina nods. "Didn't they get 'married' as kids?"

Rose laughs. "Yeah, I remember that."

Alice tilts her head, eyes narrowing slightly. "You married Edward?"

"Not really, just pretend," I say, trying to sound casual, though my heart races.

Alice seems to consider this, then a light bulb goes off. "You should get married here!"

Irina's eyes light up. "Yes! You could have the wedding of a lifetime!"

Rose claps. "You two are destined for each other."

Panic and excitement twist in my gut. "But we're not even engaged. And a wedding is a huge deal."

Alice waves a hand dismissively. "Details. You're living together, you're having his baby. This would just make it official."

Irina nudges me. "Come on, Belly, you know you want to. Imagine how romantic it would be! They win the big game tomorrow, we celebrate, and then you two get hitched. I know the perfect place. And can I make your veil? It would be beautiful with my crystals." She's already sketching in her notebook.

Now Rose and Alice are staring at me expectantly.

I bite my lip, my thoughts a whirlwind. "I'll think about it."

Alice grins. "That's all we need to hear. We'll start planning just in case."

Rose and Irina cheer, brainstorming ideas while I sit back, trying to process my swirling emotions.

My phone buzzes. It's a message from Edward.

Call me.

A smile spreads across my face, and the girls notice. "Is that the groom-to-be?" Alice asks. I nod.

"Go call him," Irina says, shooing me off the bed. "We'll be fine here."

I step out to the balcony, closing the door behind me. The cool night air feels refreshing as I dial his number. He answers on the first ring.

"Hey, Bruiser," he murmurs, his groggy voice sending shivers down my spine. His words wrap around me like a warm blanket, making my pulse quicken.

"Hey," I reply softly, trying to steady my voice.

"You just can't stay away from me, huh?" he teases, his tone dripping with that familiar cockiness.

I roll my eyes, though a smile tugs at my lips. "You sound like you just woke up."

He clears his throat, the sound low and rough. "I did."

"Oh! I'm sorry," I say, feeling a pang of guilt. "Go back to sleep. I'll talk to you tomorrow."

"Naw, it's okay, honey. I got up to go to the bathroom and saw your text," he rushes to console me before I can hang up. His voice is a soothing balm to my anxious heart.

"When did you go to bed?" I ask, nervously chewing my nails.

He hums thoughtfully. "Um, around nine, I think."

Extreme relief washes over me like a tidal wave. I texted him after that. He hasn't seen it until now.

"So, did you like my surprise?" he asks, his tone more awake and chipper.

"Yeah, I did. Thank you. Having Rose here has been great. I'm sure Emmett is just beside himself."

Edward chuckles, and the sound warms my heart, making it swell with affection. "He'll live."

"I miss you," I say, barely a whisper.

"I miss you too," he says, his voice softening. "How did Vegas treat you?"

"Good. I had fun hanging with my girls," I say, looking out at the glittering lights below. "But it would have been better if I had experienced it with you."

"I wanted that too," he says, and I can hear his longing matching mine. "But you know, this job and the rules."

The reality sets back in, and my shoulders slump as all the hope to see him deflates. "Yeah, I understand. You have responsibilities and people counting on you. I'm just…missing you in my bed."

"Oh, honey," Edward groans, and I imagine him running his hands through his hair. "You know what? Fuck it."

His change of tone is so abrupt and harsh that it worries me.

"Babe? What's wrong?"

"I can't stand being apart from you. Once your friends go to sleep, sneak out and meet me. I'll be waiting by the fountain," he says, and his voice is deep, layered with need.

My heart races with excitement and nerves. Sneaking out feels like a wild idea, but the thought of seeing him, even for a little while, is too tempting to resist.

"Are you sure? What if we get caught?"

"I'll make sure we don't. Trust me. I just need to see you."

I glance at my friends, who are still engrossed in planning my wedding, and make up my mind.

"Okay. I'll be there as soon as they fall asleep."

"I'll be waiting. I love you."

"I love you too."

Disconnecting the call, I feel my heart hammering in my chest with anticipation. Walking back to the room, I sense the electric energy of excitement coursing through me. The girls are all smiles, completely unaware of the late night plans awaiting me.

"How was the call?" Alice asks, wiggling her eyebrows playfully.

"Perfect," I say, collapsing dramatically onto the bed. "He's going to bed."

"Did you tell him about the wedding?" Irina asks, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"Ooh!" Rose exclaims, clapping her hands together in glee. "I can't wait to hear this."

"No, of course not," I say, feeling a wave of their disappointment wash over me. "Come on, you guys. I couldn't spring that on him the night before his game."

Irina nods in agreement. "No, she's right. EC needs to stay focused. That's why there's the 'No sexy time' rule."

I gulp down my guilt and try to play it cool. "Exactly!" I stretch my arms over my head and fake a yawn. "Well, I'm beat. I'll see you girls tomorrow."

"Night, Belly," they all chime as I head out of their suite, the promise of what is to come keeping my steps light and quick.

I pull out my phone and send a text to Edward: As soon as they fall asleep, I'll let you know.

Edward: Sounds good. I'll see you later.

Me: See you later.

It's nearly two in the morning when my friends finally lose steam and drift off to sleep, one by one. All the while, Edward and I have been engrossed in conversation, our words weaving a private world where time seems to slip away. We've been keeping each other awake, reminiscing about our memories of growing up together—like the time we went hiking in the woods and got lost, turning our fear into laughter as we navigated our way back.

Me: I think it's safe to leave.

Edward: okay, see you in ten.

I quietly slip out of bed, grab my jacket, and tiptoe out of the room. With every step I take, the tension coils tighter within me. There's a thrill in defying the rules, a dangerous excitement that quickens my pulse. I should turn back, do the right thing, but an irresistible force drives me forward. I press the elevator button, my hand trembling, and step inside, riding it down to the lobby.

The Bellagio is alive with activity, the clinking of slot machines and the murmur of voices filling the air. Cha-Ching. My anxiety surges, my stomach twisting into knots as I quicken my pace, pushing through the front sliding glass doors. The cool night air hits me, but there's no sign of Edward.

Scanning the drive and the vast expanse of the fountain, I strain my eyes, but he's nowhere to be seen. We had planned to meet by the fountain, but its sprawling size makes the task daunting. I move toward the street, my eyes darting frantically, searching for any sign of him. As I descend the slope of the driveway, a strong hand suddenly grabs my arm, yanking me into the bushes.

Startled, I let out a yelp, but a large hand quickly covers my mouth, stifling my scream. Panic seizes me, but when I look up, my eyes lock with Edward's deep green gaze. He's wearing a black hat pulled low and a hoodie, blending into the shadows.

"Hey, you," I say, a relieved smile spreading across my face, the tension in my shoulders easing slightly.

"Bella," he whispers, pulling me into his arms with a fervent grip. "Did anyone see you?"

"I don't think so," I reply, my voice muffled against his chest. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat reassures me. "I can't believe we're doing this."

"Me neither," he says with a grin, his lips brushing my forehead in a soft kiss. "But it's worth it. Every second with you is worth it."

We stand there, wrapped in each other's arms under the starlit sky, savoring the stolen moments of our forbidden meeting. The cool night air carries the distant sounds of the city, a stark contrast to the quiet intimacy of our embrace. But we both realize how exposed we are. He takes my hand, and we rush back into the hotel, avoiding the lobby.

Edward leads us to a discreet service entrance, a hidden passage where there are no cameras or prying eyes. The dimly lit corridor feels like a secret world, far removed from the glittering facade of the Bellagio.

I shake my head and giggle at the absurdity. "Let me guess, you know some people?"

Edward glances back at me and smirks. "Impressed?"

My shrug is casual, but unconvincing. "Not really."

His laugh is boisterous, echoing off the concrete walls, filling the space with warmth. "Right."

As we navigate the labyrinthine back halls, I can't help but feel a rush of excitement and fear. The thrill of breaking the rules, the danger of getting caught, and the overwhelming joy of being with Edward—all of it swirls within me, making my heart race.

We arrive at his suite. It's modest compared to the one he got for my friends and me, but still nice. As soon as I step inside, he pulls me into a tender kiss. His lips are soft and warm against mine, and I melt into his embrace. The scent of French vanilla fills the room, mingling with his familiar, intoxicating smell. His hands find my waist, pulling me closer, and I respond by wrapping my arms around his neck, deepening the kiss.

Edward grows more urgent, his lips moving hungrily against mine. His tongue gently parts my lips, and I eagerly meet his, tasting the familiar sweetness that sends a shiver down my spine. His hands travel up my back, leaving a trail of heat before tangling in my hair, holding me close as if he never wants to let go.

I let out a soft moan, the sound muffled between our lips, and Edward responds with a low growl that vibrates through his chest. His hands slide down my sides, finding the hem of my shirt, and he tugs it upwards. I lift my arms, allowing him to pull it over my head and toss it aside. He takes a moment to look at me, his eyes dark with desire, before his lips crash back onto mine with renewed passion.

I fumble with the zipper of his hoodie, desperate to feel his skin against mine. My fingers tremble, but I manage to pull it down until I can push the fabric off his shoulders. His chest is firm and warm beneath my touch, and I run my hands over the hard planes of muscle, savoring the feel of him.

Edward's mouth moves from my lips to my jaw, trailing hot, open-mouthed kisses down my neck. I tilt my head back, giving him better access as he explores the sensitive skin, sending waves of pleasure through me. His hands find the clasp of my bra, and with practiced ease, he unhooks it, letting it fall to the floor. He pulls back to gaze at me, his eyes filled with admiration and lust.

"You're so beautiful," he murmurs, his voice husky.

I feel a blush rise to my cheeks, but I don't look away. I reach up, removing his hat, and run my fingers through his hair, pulling him down for another kiss.

His kisses trail from my lips to my jaw, then down my neck, to my collarbone, and finally to the swell of my breasts. His hands cup them gently, his thumbs brushing over my hardened nipples, eliciting a gasp from me. He takes one nipple into his mouth, sucking gently, and I arch into him, my fingers threading through his hair, holding him close.

He switches to the other breast, giving it the same attention, while his hands roam my back and sides, sending sparks of electricity through my body. I can feel the heat pooling between my legs, my desire for him growing with each passing second.

"Edward," I breathe, my voice shaky with need.

He lifts his head, his eyes locking with mine, and in one swift motion, scoops me up and carries me to the bed. He lays me down gently, climbing over me, his body pressing against mine. His lips find mine again, and we kiss with fevered intensity, our hands exploring, our bodies moving in perfect harmony.

His hands move to the waistband of my jeans. With a gentle tug, he slides them down, along with my underwear, leaving me completely bare before him. I watch as he removes his own clothes, revealing the strong, lean lines of his body.

For a moment, we just look at each other, the air between us charged with love and desire. Then, with a soft smile, Edward lowers himself and I gasp as his mouth finds the sensitive nub. He flicks his tongue, sending a jolt of pleasure through me. I put my legs over his shoulders as my hands clutch at his hair, pulling him closer, needing more.

"Yes, mmm. Oh, Edward…" I moan as he takes me completely into his mouth. "I'm so close."

And I am, shivering thighs and arched back, every nerve ending on fire with anticipation. I know if he licks me deeper or inserts a finger, I'll be a mess, completely unraveling beneath his touch. His heated breath on my skin sends a cascade of sensations through my entire body, a delicious torture. Just as I teeter on the edge, he pulls away, leaving me gasping and aching for more. He gently pushes my knees apart, his large yet lean body fitting perfectly against mine. The warmth of his skin against mine feels like coming home.

I wrap my arms around him, pulling him close, desperate to feel him, to connect with him in the most intimate way possible. His lips trace a path from my chest to my neck and finally to my mouth. The taste of him is intoxicating, like he's explored every inch of me with a reverence that takes my breath away.

"Please," I beg, lifting my hips to meet his. The need to feel him, to have him inside me, is overwhelming. Edward smirks, a knowing glint in his eye, as he reaches down between us and grabs his length. I'm drenched, not just from his touch but from the intense need I have for this man. He teases me, tracing my lips with the head of his cock before slowly, gently, entering me.

A wave of emotion washes over me. It's not just the physical sensation, though that's incredible; it's the feeling of being utterly connected to him, sharing something so profound and beautiful. We move together, our bodies finding a rhythm that feels like coming home. Our breaths mingle, hearts beating in unison, and I feel tears of joy and love prick at the corners of my eyes.

Edward's gaze never leaves me, filled with love and devotion. "Bella," he whispers, his voice a tender caress.

"I'm here," I reply, my voice steadier than I feel.

"I love you," he breathes, each word wrapped in sincerity.

"I love you too," I whisper back, my voice trembling with emotion.

Edward leans in, his lips capturing mine in a kiss that's both gentle and passionate. His hand slides up my back, pulling me closer, and I respond by threading my fingers through his hair, deepening the kiss. We move together, lost in the perfection of the moment, the outside world forgotten. This is a blend of lust and love, but mostly, it's about our deep need for each other, the craving for that connection.

As we reach the peak together, our bodies trembling with the intensity of our shared pleasure, I know this is where I belong. With Edward, in his arms, surrounded by his presence and his unrelenting protection.

We're tangled together in the soft sheets, Edward's arm draped protectively over me. I'm filled with a deep sense of contentment. His fingers trace gentle, mesmerizing patterns on my skin, sending delightful shivers through me. I nestle closer, resting my head on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. The closeness is intoxicating, making me feel safe and cherished.

"Are you nervous about the game tomorrow?" I ask softly, looking up at him. His green eyes meet mine, filled with a mix of excitement and worry that tugs at my heart.

"A little," he admits, his voice a soothing rumble beneath me. "It's a big game, and there's a lot riding on it."

"You're going to do great, Edward. You always do," I reassure him, my voice full of conviction as I brush a stray lock of hair from his face.

He leans down, pressing a tender kiss to my forehead. "Thank you, honey," he murmurs, his lips warm on my skin, making my heart flutter.

We lay in comfortable silence for a moment, the only sounds the soft hum of the city outside and our synchronized breathing. Yet, a lingering thought nags at the back of my mind, and I know I have to voice it.

"Do you think us being together tonight is going to mess with your focus tomorrow?" I ask quietly, tracing circles on his chest with my fingertips.

Edward sighs, his hand stilling its gentle caress. "Maybe, I don't know. This is the first time for me," he confesses, sounding vulnerable as his fingers tighten slightly around mine.

"What do you mean?" I ask, curious, lifting my head to better see his face.

"You know, getting physical before a game."

"Really?" I respond, genuinely surprised, my eyes widening.

Edward chuckles softly, the sound vibrating through his chest. "Yeah, really. Before you, I enjoyed the space and solitude. You're the game changer."

I want to gloat and tell the world that I make Edward Cullen break all the rules, but that kind of power has consequences. The NFL is strict about keeping focus and cutting out distractions before a big game for a reason. If they find out about our little rendezvous, it could cause him problems.

"Maybe I should go back to my room," I say, my voice tinged with worry as I pull back slightly.

"No," he says firmly, tightening his hold on me. "I need you here, Bruiser. Being with you calms me, centers me."

His words fill me with a mix of happiness and anxiety. "I just don't want to be a distraction for you. This game is important."

Edward cups my face in his hand, his thumb brushing over my cheek. "You could never be a distraction in a bad way. Being with you gives me strength. It reminds me why I play, why I push myself so hard. You're my motivation, Bella."

I reach up, placing my hand over his. "Are you sure? I just want what's best for you," I whisper, my voice trembling slightly.

"And what's best for me is you," he replies, his eyes serious and filled with love.

I lean up, capturing his lips in a soft, lingering kiss. When we pull back, we're both smiling, our worries momentarily forgotten.

And yet, I can't help but think about how none of this should be against any rules. Loving someone, sharing your life and dreams with them, shouldn't be something that has to be hidden or frowned upon. And Emmett needs to understand that. My brother has to get on board with my relationship with Edward because it's real, it's profound, and soon, we're going to be parents. I'm building a future with this beautiful man, one that goes beyond the field and the games.

"Now, let's get some sleep," Edward says, his voice a gentle murmur, his breath warm against my ear. "Tomorrow's a big day, and we both need to be well rested."

"Good idea," I agree, snuggling into him, feeling the rise and fall of his chest beneath my cheek. "I'll be right here, cheering you on, no matter what."