A Second Chance
11
Edward's sneakers squeaked rhythmically against the polished gym floor, echoing through the vast space. He pushed harder on the treadmill, watching the digital display tick upwards, counting down the minutes to his self-imposed escape from the world outside.
Bella, curled up in the soft embrace of the guest bedroom bed, slept soundly, oblivious to the early morning light peeking through the blinds. Her gentle breathing was the only sound in the room.
Edward finished his routine and walked to his home like he did every gym morning. Then he made another pot of coffee, the smell began to waft from the kitchen, signaling Edward's return from his workout. The aroma grew stronger, eventually nudging Bella's senses awake. She stretched, and looked around the room for a few seconds, it was sparsely decorated, but the bed was comfortable.
Rolling out of bed, she padded to the kitchen in her pajamas, her hair a wild mess around her shoulders. Edward was at the counter drinking his coffee and checking his phone, "Good morning," he said, flashing a smile over his shoulder as he sensed her presence.
"You're up early," Bella mumbled, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.
"It's nine," He told her with a smile.
"You were out?"
"Yes, I couldn't resist going to the gym," Edward said with a shrug.
"But I figured we could go grab brunch after I freshen up. How does that sound?"
"Perfect," Bella agreed, the thought of food sparking her appetite. She took a deep breath, inhaling the heavenly scent of the brewing coffee although she was more of a morning tea kind of person, she had coffee in the afternoon. "Where should we go?"
"I know this amazing little place in the heart of the city," Edward said, his eyes lighting up. "They have the best waffles you've ever tasted."
Bella couldn't help but smile at his enthusiasm. "Waffles sound heavenly right now. Let's go."
*SC*
The city was alive when they stepped out of the car. The cacophony of traffic, the distant chatter of pedestrians, and the occasional wail of a siren. Edward navigated the sidewalks with ease, his long legs eating up the distance to the brunch spot. They had to park at another street because parking was full.
The brunch place was a cozy little restaurant, nestled between a vintage bookstore and a chic boutique. A bell above the door chimed as they stepped inside, the warm, buttery scent of waffles enveloping them. The walls were lined with a mishmash of paintings, ranging from quirky to abstract, giving the place a homely charm.
They were quickly shown to a booth by the window, the sun streaming through and casting a warm glow on their faces. The menu was a single page, but it boasted an impressive variety of brunch items. Edward scanned it with the expertise of a regular, while Bella felt overwhelmed by the choices.
"The waffles are a must," Edward suggested, his eyes lingering on the description. "But if you're feeling adventurous, my sister says their avocado toast with poached eggs is to die for."
Bella chuckled. "I'll stick with the waffles."
Edward nodded in approval, his eyes not leaving the menu. "And I'll try the avocado toast this time. I've been meaning to."
The waitress, a bubbly young woman with pink-streaked hair and a name tag that read 'Luna', took their orders with a smile. She scribbled their choices on her notepad and promised to be back with their drinks shortly.
The restaurant hummed with the low murmur of conversations and clinking silverware. Bella couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort in, her eyes drifting out the window to the bustling street life beyond. The smell of the waffles grew stronger as they waited, and her stomach rumbled in anticipation.
Luna returned with a tray, setting down two steaming mugs in front of them. "One Chai latte," she said, placing the cup before Bella, "and one straight black for you, sir." Edward nodded his thanks, his eyes focused on Bella. He was waiting for her reaction to the chai as his sister loved it. Alice had been born ten years after him, she was thirty.
The waffles arrived a short while later, a golden tower drenched in syrup with fresh strawberries, chopped almonds, and a dollop of whipped cream on top. Edward's avocado toast was arranged artfully, with two perfect poached eggs resting on top.
Bella took a bite of her waffle, her eyes closing in delight as the sweetness of the syrup melded with the crispy warmth. It was heaven in every bite. She looked at Edward, who was already halfway through his toast. His expression was one of pure contentment.
"These are incredible," she said, her mouth still half-full.
Edward laughed, taking a sip of his coffee. "Told you," he said with a smug grin.
The conversation flowed easily between them as they enjoyed their meal, sharing stories of how they spent their weekends. Bella usually cleaned, while Edward often went to his parents' house. The more they talked, it was clear he was trying to make her feel welcome, and she appreciated his effort.
After Edward finished his avocado toast, he leaned back in his chair, his gaze drifting to the street outside. "So," he began, "what do you usually do after you're done with your chores?"
Bella swallowed a mouthful of waffle and took a sip of her chai. "Well," she said, wiping her mouth with a napkin, "sometimes I go to the mall. Just to unwind, you know?"
Edward's eyebrows shot up. "The mall? Really?"
Bella nodded, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Yeah, it's not the most exciting thing, I know. But there's something about walking around, looking at all the pretty things, that just helps me relax."
"It's settled then, let's go to the mall. We have a few hours before our next activity," he said nonchalantly.
Bella's eyes widened in surprise. "You... you don't mind going to the mall?"
"Why would I?" Edward replied, his expression earnest. "It's your weekend, I want you to do what makes you happy."
Bella felt a warmth spread through her chest. It had been a long time since someone had shown such genuine interest in her simple pleasures. "Well, if you don't mind, I'd love to show you around my favorite stores."
Edward's smile grew wider, and he nodded eagerly. "Lead the way," he said, pushing his plate aside, leaving a fifty-dollar bill for the waitress to cover their bill and tip and standing up from the booth he waved goodbye.
*SC*
The mall was bustling with Sunday shoppers, the sound of laughter and chatter mixing with the rhythmic throb of background music. Bella took Edward's hand, leading him through the gleaming corridors of the mall, pointing out her favorite stores with excitement. He followed, listening intently to her stories about her past visits and the little treasures she had found within their walls.
They strolled into a bookstore, Edward watching as Bella's eyes lit up like stars as she scanned the shelves. She picked up a novel, flipping through the pages, lost in the story's promise. Edward leaned against a shelf, smiling as he watched her, feeling a warmth spread through his chest.
"You want that?" He asked, completely enthralled by her.
Bella nodded vigorously, her eyes glued to the book she held in her hands. "I've been meaning to read it," she said, excitedly. Edward took the book from her and headed to the counter.
"I'll get it," he said, placing it on the counter with a smile at the cashier.
"Thank you," Bella said, feeling a rush of gratitude. Edward had a way of making her feel special without even trying.
As they left the bookstore, Edward took her hand in his, and they walked side by side through the mall, weaving through the crowds. His touch was warm and steady, sending a thrill of happiness through her. They chatted about the books they had read, their tastes surprisingly aligned, and their laughter drew the occasional curious glance from passersby.
In the parking lot Edward surprised Bella yet again. "I know you're into art," he said, his eyes searching hers for approval. "How about we check out the new exhibit at the gallery?"
Bella felt a rush of excitement. "I'd love to," she said, her voice filled with genuine enthusiasm.
In the car, as Edward pulled out of the parking spot, she leaned over and kissed him, the impulse taking them both by surprise. It was a soft, sweet kiss, filled with the warmth of the moment. Edward's eyes widened for a second before he returned it, a gentle smile playing on his lips.
The art gallery was a modern building of steel and glass, nestled in the heart of the city's art district. Inside, the walls were adorned with paintings from both local and international artists, each one telling a story of its own. Bella's eyes danced from one masterpiece to the next, her heart fluttering with excitement. Edward watched her with a sense of pride, pleased that he had managed to surprise her with something she enjoyed.
The exhibit was a collection of abstract pieces, Bella moved from painting to sculpture, her mind racing with thoughts and interpretations. Edward followed, his hand resting gently on the small of her back, guiding her through the maze of art.
"What do you think of this one?" he asked, stopping before a canvas that was a chaotic swirl of blues and whites.
Bella tilted her head, considering the piece. "It's like a storm at sea," she murmured, "calm and chaotic all at once." Edward leaned closer, his breath tickling her neck. "I see a dance," he whispered, "the waves moving in harmony."
Their conversation grew more intimate as they discussed the art, sharing thoughts and feelings in a way they hadn't before. They stumbled upon a quiet corner, where a sculpture of entwined lovers caught their eye. The raw emotion of the piece was palpable, drawing them closer together.
Bella's hand found Edward's, and they stood in silence, absorbing the sculpture's intensity. It was as if the artist had captured a moment of pure passion, frozen in time for all to see. Edward felt a pull towards Bella, his thumb tracing gentle circles on the back of her hand. The air around them seemed to thicken, charged with a tension that was both electrifying and comforting.
"It's beautiful," she murmured, her eyes never leaving the sculpture. Edward nodded, his gaze shifting to her profile, her eyes sparkling with unshed tears. "Do you think love can be that strong?"
"I do," he said, his voice low and serious. "I think when you find the right person, it can be a force that nothing can break."
"You would be with Kate if she wasn't dead, right?" Bella couldn't help but ask.
"I think so," Edward replied sincerely.
Bella felt a pang of curiosity about Kate, but she didn't want to ruin the moment. "What was she like?"
Edward's smile was sad, but filled with love. "Kate was... she was amazing. She had this energy, this light that filled every room she entered. She was kind, smart, and incredibly talented. We had our differences, but she was the one I thought I'd spend the rest of my life with." Bella rested her head on his shoulder and continued to enjoy the sculpture.
As they turned to leave, a sign caught Edward's eye. "Hey, they're having a clay workshop," he said, pointing to a group of tables set up in the back of the room. "Would you like to try?"
Bella's eyes lit up at the prospect of getting her hands dirty. "That sounds amazing!" she exclaimed, and they quickly signed up.
Within minutes, they found themselves seated at a table with a lump of clay and a set of tools before them, surrounded by other eager participants. The instructor, a middle-aged woman with wild hair and a paint-splattered apron, began the workshop with a demonstration, her hands moving with grace as she shaped the clay into a delicate vase. The room was silent except for the occasional squish and slab of clay against the tables.
Edward took to it with surprising ease, his hands molding the clay into a rough but recognizable form. Bella watched him in amazement, he was making a small vase. Bella was shaping hers into a tulip paper weight for her desk.
The instructor moved from participant to participant, offering tips and encouragement. When she reached their table, she took a moment to study their work before speaking.
"Very good," she said, her eyes lingering on Edward's vase before turning to Bella.
"Your tulip is coming along nicely. Remember to keep the petals thin so they don't weigh down the design."
Bella nodded, her focus returning to her creation. Edward's hands were steady and sure as he worked, and she couldn't help but feel a touch of envy at his natural talent. They worked in companionable silence, their only interactions the occasional brush of their elbows or the sharing of a tool.
After the art show and clay workshop Edward said he needed some groceries, so they headed to the supermarket.
*SC*
"What are we getting exactly?" Bella asked after she saw him roam a few aisles barely grabbing anything.
"Just the essentials," Edward said with a shrug. "We are cooking dinner," he informed her. Bella smiled at the mere idea.
Once in the car, Bella noticed they weren't going the right way, and she looked over at Edward with a confused smile. "I thought we were going back to your house?"
"You talked to me about your dream, right?" Bella nodded.
"I'm taking you to mine," Edward said.
Bella's curiosity piqued as they drove, the skyline shrinking in the rearview mirror. The road grew quieter, the buildings giving way to the landscape of Countryside, Illinois. They turned onto a gravel path, the car bouncing gently as they approached a secluded residential area.
Edward parked the car in front of a plot of land, a vast expanse of potential. At its center, a house rose into the sky, surrounded by a work site.
"What is this, Edward?"
He turned to her, a look of hope in his eyes. "This is where I'm building my dream home."
Bella looked out the window, taking in the sight of the half-finished house.
"It's halfway done," Edward mentioned as he got out of the car and started to grab their things.
"It's huge," Bella said, stepping out of the car, her eyes wide as she took in the grandeur of the place. Once inside she started looking around, Edward gave her a tour.
The house was indeed a work in progress, with bare floors and unpainted walls, but Bella could see the vision Edward had for it. The open-plan living space was bathed in natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the kitchen was a chef's dream with a massive island and high-end appliances.
As they ventured further into the house, something began to tug at the back of Bella's mind. The layout, the placement of the windows—it all felt eerily familiar.
"Edward, this house looks familiar," she pointed out.
Edward placed his hand on her shoulder, "It looks a lot like..." she started.
"Your house, but bigger," Edward finished for her.
"Why is that?" Bella asked, still in disbelief.
"I think it's the same architect," Edward replied. "He designed that residential complex you lived in," he pointed back towards the city.
"How long have you been building this place?" Bella asked intrigued.
"It's been going for a while. The plan has undergone some changes, but I decided to continue building it this year."
The tour continued, and Bella felt a strange connection to the unfinished space. It was as if the walls held secrets of the future, whispering promises of happiness and a life filled with love. Edward's excitement was palpable as he described his vision for each room, and she couldn't help but get swept up in his enthusiasm.
"There's only two rooms finished, the master and the first guest bedroom,"
Bella followed Edward as they stepped into the master bedroom, and she gasped at the view through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
"It's beautiful," she breathed, the sight of the sprawling landscape stealing her voice.
The room was sparsely furnished, but the king-sized bed was made with crisp, white linens, and the smell of fresh paint lingered in the air.
Edward chuckled, "It's going to be something special when it's done," he said, his hand sliding down her arm to hold hers. "This is where I want to build the rest of my life," he sighed.
Bella felt the weight of his words, and she knew he wasn't just talking about the house. She squeezed his hand, her heart racing with the possibility that she could be a part of that life.
Back in the kitchen they had cooked a simple pasta dish for dinner and ate in the kitchen, while Edward mostly talked about the plans for the house. Then they watched an animated movie.
—
"Do you want to watch another movie?" Edward asked Bella as the credits rolled.
"Sure," she replied.
Edward searched for a film, something light-hearted. They watched the new movie, their hands entwined over the blanket. The occasional laughter filled the room, but the electricity between them still hummed in the air. Every so often, Edward would reach over to stroke her hair or kiss her forehead, and each time, Bella felt a thrill that sent her stomach fluttering.
As the plot of the film grew more romantic, the tension between them grew palpable. The couple on the screen shared a sweet, lingering kiss, and without warning, Edward's hand cupped her chin, gently turning her face towards his. His eyes searched hers, questioning and hopeful. Bella's heart raced as she read the intention in his gaze. She nodded almost imperceptibly, giving him the go-ahead. They'd already kissed twice, but she liked that he asked for consent before doing anything. He was a gentleman.
Edward leaned in and captured her lips in a fiery kiss. Her body came alive under his touch, responding to him in a way it hadn't in years.
Bella's arms wound around his neck, pulling him closer as their kiss deepened. Her breathing grew ragged, her body arching towards him. She felt a yearning for more, a hunger that was both new and exhilarating. Edward's hands tentatively roamed her body, setting every nerve ending alight with desire. The TV's glow cast a warm light over their entwined forms, the rom-com forgotten.
"Bella," Edward groaned.
The sound of his voice, thick with desire, sent a shiver down her spine. Bella felt herself melting into him, her body responding to his every touch.
"Touch me, Edward," she pleaded.
"Are you sure?" He asked breathlessly.
"Yes," Bella said firmly, looking into his eyes.
He kissed her again, more passionate this time. His hands were gentle yet firm, exploring her curves as if memorizing them. The warmth of his palms sent waves of pleasure through her, and she realized she had missed this intimacy more than she had ever admitted.
"Bella what are we going to do?" Edward asked before he was consumed by the fire she'd ignited.
"I just want you to touch me, Edward," she said.
Her words were all the invitation he needed. Edward's hands grew bolder, exploring her body with a gentle yet insistent touch that left her gasping for more. He leaned her back into the couch cushions, his kisses trailing down her neck, eliciting soft moans of pleasure. His hand found the hem of her shirt, sliding it up to caress her stomach. The sensation was overwhelming, and she arched up into him, her breath hitching.
With a sense of urgency, Edward stood and offered his hand, leading Bella down the hallway to the guest room. The room was softly lit by a single lamp, casting a warm glow over the plush bed. The air was thick with anticipation as they stumbled towards the bed, their bodies entwined in a passionate kiss.
Their kiss grew more intense, hands fumbling with buttons and zippers. Edward's palms slid over Bella's skin, her shirt landing on the floor. She felt his warm hands on her breasts over her bra, and she gasped as he began to knead them gently over the fabric. Bella's hands roamed Edward's back, feeling the tension in his muscles as he kissed her harder, his tongue dancing with hers. Edward laid her down and hovered over her. His eyes were dark with desire, and she felt a rush of excitement as his mouth moved to her neck, nipping and sucking lightly. Bella's breath grew shallow, her body responding to his every touch.
Edward's hand trailed down her side, reaching for the waistband of her shorts. He paused, looking into her eyes for permission, and she nodded, her cheeks flushing. He slid the fabric over her hips, revealing the lacy panties that matched her bra. His eyes widened with appreciation at her exposed skin.
Bella's heart hammered in her chest as she reached for the hem of his under shirt, pulling it up over his head. His bare chest had a dusting of hair, and she couldn't help but run her fingers over the planes of his stomach. He leaned down to kiss her again, his chest pressing against hers, the warmth of their bodies melding together.
They laid side by side on the bed still kissing, Edward's hands were now on her waist and back as he held her while their mouths moved in unison.
Bella's hands roamed Edward's broad chest and shoulders, feeling the heat and strength beneath her fingertips. Edward's touch was firm, sure of himself and it thrilled her.
"You like what you see?" He joked, Bella nodded.
"And you?" She asked him, blushing.
Edward brought her chin up with a gentle nudge, their eyes locking again.
"You are beautiful," Edward whispered before he closed the space between them, the room spun as their kiss grew deeper, tongues exploring and tasting each other. Bella could feel the hardness of his erection pressing against her through his boxer briefs.
"I want you to touch me, Edward. I want to feel your touch all over me," she whispered.
"Bella," he murmured, his voice thick with need. "I want to make sure this is what you want." He asked her again, he needed to make sure she consented.
Her eyes searched for him, the desire in them unmistakable. "Yes, Edward, I want this."
With her consent echoing in his ears, Edward grew bolder, his eyes smoldering with desire, an expression she had not experienced in a while. He trailed kisses down her body, his hands discovering her skin. Bella's eyes closed as she felt his hand move down her body, caressing her thigh. Her legs parted slightly, an invitation that Edward couldn't resist. He kissed her, his hand sliding down to cup her sex, feeling the wetness as his thumb brushed her clit over the thin fabric of her panties.
Her moan was muffled by his mouth as she arched into his touch. Edward felt his own desire surge, his cock straining against the confines of his boxer briefs. He broke the kiss, his breathing heavy. Bella gasped as he touched her, his movements slow and deliberate, teasing her until she was trembling beneath his touch. Edward knew she had been starved of affection for too long, and he wanted to make sure she enjoyed every moment.
"Can I?" She breathed as she looked down at his body, focusing on the bulge between his legs. Edward nodded.
Bella's hand found its way to Edward's erection, her curiosity getting the better of her. She stroked him tentatively at first, her eyes watching his reaction. Edward's eyes rolled back in his head as he groaned, his hand still working magic on her. She felt empowered by his response, her own need growing with every stroke.
Edward's touch grew more insistent as he felt her body tighten around his hand. Bella's breaths grew shorter, her chest heaving with pleasure. Bella's hand grew bolder on Edward's cock, her strokes growing firmer. She could feel the heat and power of his desire beneath her fingertips. Edward groaned into her neck, his hand moving faster, pressing harder against her clit.
Their bodies moved in a silent symphony of passion, each responding to the other's touch. Bella's legs began to tremble, and she knew she was close. Edward sensed it too, his kisses growing more urgent. She gasped as the rest of his fingers caressed her cloth covered slit, and her orgasm crashed over her like a wave, her body shaking with the force of it.
"Edward," she whispered, her voice hoarse with passion. He pulled away, looking down at her with a mix of concern and satisfaction. "Are you okay?"
Bella nodded, her eyes glazed over with pleasure. "I'm more than okay," she managed to say, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Your turn."
Edward's eyes darkened, his own need palpable. He leaned down to kiss her again, his hand still over her panties. She gasped into his mouth as his fingers continued to stroke her gently. Bella's hand never left his erection, her grip tightening as she felt his length pulse in her hand. Edward's hips began to buck into her hand, his breath coming in harsh pants against her neck. Bella felt a thrill knowing she was the one causing this reaction in him.
Their kiss grew more intense, their bodies writhing together on the bed. Edward's hand moved in a circular motion over her panties, and she could feel the fabric growing wetter by the second. Bella's hips moved in time with his hand, another orgasm building. The friction was exquisite, and she knew she was close again, she had not completely shaken off her first orgasm when she was nearing the second.
Edward's other hand found its way into her hair, gripping it gently as he kissed her hard. His cock pulsed again, and she knew he was close. She stroked him faster, her hand a blur of motion as she brought him closer to the edge. His breath was hot against her ear, his voice a low growl as he whispered sweet nothings in Spanish, a language she didn't fully understand, but his accent pushed her over the edge. Her second orgasm washed over her, her body spasming with pleasure as she cried out Edward's name.
The pressure in the room was palpable, their breaths mingling as they both chased the precipice of pleasure. Edward's hips bucked upward, his hand pressing her mound hard as he climaxed, his hot seed spilling into his underwear. The tension between them shattered into a million pieces, leaving only the sweet aftermath of passion.
They laid there, panting, their hearts beating in unison. Bella felt a sense of satisfaction that she hadn't felt in a very long time, and it was all because of Edward. He pulled back, looking down at her with a smile that could melt the coldest of hearts.
"You okay?" He asked, his voice still thick with passion.
Bella nodded, a satisfied smile playing on her lips. "More than okay," she murmured, her eyes fluttering shut.
They lay there, entwined in the afterglow of their shared passion.
"Stay," Bella whispered.
Edward pulled her closer, wrapping his arms around her as she nestled her head on his chest. They laid there, listening to the steady thump of each other's hearts. Bella felt a sense of belonging she hadn't experienced in a long time. The room was still, except for their mingled breaths and the faint sound of the TV in the living room playing the movie they had long abandoned.
"Descansa mi amor," Bella heard Edward whisper in Spanish before she closed her eyes.
The next morning, in the first light of dawn Bella woke up. She felt the cold emptiness beside her, and Edward's side of the bed was empty. Panic flooded her, and she grabbed his shirt, the scent of him still lingering on the fabric. Her heart racing, she slipped it on over her body, and she stumbled out of the bedroom, her bare feet padding against the cool tiles, and into his room, expecting to find him.
But he wasn't there. The room was quiet and undisturbed. She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. Maybe he had just gone to the bathroom, she thought. But as she walked through the house, the quietness grew louder with each step. The living room was empty, the TV still on with the menu of the streaming service where they watched the movie last night.
Finally, she smelled coffee and followed the aroma into the kitchen. There he was, Edward, dressed in a different pair of boxer briefs and a button down, standing by the window, sipping a steaming cup of coffee. The morning light painted a warm glow around him, highlighting the contours of his body.
"Edward," she called out softly. He turned around, his eyes lighting up when he saw her.
He took a step towards her and pulled her into a warm embrace. She let a sob escape, feeling his warmth and the comfort of his arms around her. He held her tightly, his hand rubbing soothing circles on her back.
"Why are you crying?" He asked, concerned.
"I thought you were gone! I thought last night was a dream. That the feeling of your hands on my body were a figment of my imagination," she explained.
Edward's eyes searched hers, filled with confusion. "Bella, I'm right here," he whispered, holding her tightly. He kissed the top of her head, the warmth of his body seeping into her. "Why would I leave?"
Her sobs grew quieter as she took a deep breath, inhaling the scent of him. He smelled like always, he had showered. "I don't know," she murmured, her voice muffled against his chest.
"You had me worried," she whispered.
"I'm an early riser," he explained.
"I didn't want to leave your side, but my body is like clockwork. I needed to use the bathroom, then I took a quick shower and went to have my coffee. I was going to rejoin you in bed I swear."
Bella felt a rush of relief and pulled away slightly to look into his eyes. "I know," she whispered.
"It's just that the last time James made me feel like that, he was gone the next morning. He didn't touch me again after that night."
"I mean, I know we didn't do anything else, that we just fooled around for a bit and masturbated with each other, but it was important to me."
Edward's expression grew solemn, and he stroked her hair, "I know it was important to you, and it was to me too." He took a step back and held her at arm's length, looking into her eyes.
"I don't know what happened with James, but I'm not him. I'm here, and I care about you. I want you to feel safe with me, even if you decide not to pursue anything," he said, his voice filled with sincerity.
Bella felt a warmth spread through her chest, and she nodded, her eyes brimming with tears. "Thank you, Edward," she whispered.
He leaned down to kiss her forehead, and she took the coffee cup from his hand, placing it gently on the window seat. She took his face in her hands, looking into his eyes, and said the words he had hoped to hear. "I want to pursue something more with you, Edward."
The corners of Edward's lips tugged into a smile that seemed to light up the whole room. He cupped her cheeks with his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears that had fallen.
"Bella, that's all I've ever wanted," he murmured before capturing her mouth in a kiss that was gentle yet filled with the promise of a second chance.
THIS IS NOT THE END, I REPEAT, THIS IS NOT THE END! We have a few more chapters to go. Thanks for the support.